Every five years each bishop in the world makes a formal visit ''to the thresholds of the 'apostles" - in Latin, Ad limina apostolorum. With the other bishops of his country, (1) he celebrates Mass at the tombs of St Peter and of St Paul, (2) he meets the Pope individually and (3) he visits the Departments (in Vatican language the Congregations and the Pontifical Councils) of the "Civil Service" of the universal Church.

Scotland's eight diocesan bishops, with two retired colleagues, made their visit in early February this year.

Mass in the crypt of die Vatican basilica, where St Peter lies buried, is a privilege and an emotional experience. So, of course, is an individual meeting with the Holy Father!

In recent years, the custom has developed of a group from the Diocese of Aberdeen travelling in pilgrimage every second year or so to Lourdes. Many will recall the pilgrimages organised by the late Canon John Gowans and, more recently, by the much-missed Mgr Eddie Traynor.

Last year it had been hoped :o organise a pilgrimage, but early on in the planning it was realised that the costs were going to be prohibitive due to the recession, and so sadly, the plans had to be postponed. Now I am writing to let you know that a pilgrimage is planned for this coming summer, from the 7th- 17th July.