I went on a visit to Douai Abbey in Reading to have a look at their collection of traditional vestments in the library. Their library houses over 100,00 books, which includes medieval manuscripts, early printed books and works by recusant Catholics. They have artifacts dating back to the 17th century. As well as their own archives (the Benedictines) they also house archives of other religious orders such as the Dominicans and the Passionists.

Of particular interest was their white mass set, embroidered by English Carmelites in the 16th century. The set includes a chasuble with a vine motif and stumpwork panels with pearl boarders. Images depicting the Annunciation, the Visitation, the Nativity, Epiphany, the Flight into Egypt and the Coronation of Our Lady can be seen on the panels.

The Abbey is under the patronage of St Edmund, King and martyr, who was also the original Patron Saint of England (before St George).