CATHOLIC NEWS JANUARY 2026

Catholic News

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ISSUE 344 - JAnUARY 2026

MORE THAN 27 YEARS OF BRINGING THE NOTTINGHAM DIOCESE TOGETHER Published by CathCom Ltd, N2 Blois Meadow Business Centre, Steeple Bumpstead, Haverhill, Suffolk, CB9 7BN Telephone: 01440 730399 Editor nick Layton E-mail cn@cathcom.org or davidl@cathcom.org

Around 600 people across Nottingham Diocese gathered for Mass to celebrate the Jubilee of Young People and Universities Bishop McKinney preached about the life of St John Henry Newman, who was declared a Doctor of the Church on November 1st.

Hundreds of young people across Nottingham Diocese, gathered for Mass to celebrate the Jubilee of Young People and Universities on the Solemnity of Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, at St Barnabas Cathedral, Nottingham.

Mass was celebrated by Bishop Patrick McKinney at 6pm on Sunday November 23rd.

Among them were representatives from the Diocesan Youth Service, and the chaplaincies of Nottingham Trent University, the University of Nottingham,

Loughborough University and Lincoln University.

As well as being the Feast of Christ the King, Sunday was also World Youth Sunday and so readings, bidding prayers, the offertory, music and Eucharistic ministry were all facilitated by university students.

During his homily, Bishop McKinney preached about the life of St John Henry Newman, who was declared a Doctor of the Church on November 1st by Pope Leo XIV. Bishop McKinney reflected on the saint’s reminder that we are all called to some

THE EDITOR AND STAFF OF THE CATHOLIC NEWS WOULD LIKE TO WISH OUR ADVERTISERS AND READERS A VERY HAPPY, HOLY AND PEACEFUL CHRISTMAS AND A BLESSED NEW YEAR FILLED WITH GOD'S PEACE AND HOPE.

“definite service” and encouraged those present to consider how they are called to serve God. During the Mass, prayer cards were handed out featuring a recent portrait of Saint John Henry Newman which was gifted to Cardinal Vincent Nichols, on his 80th birthday.

The prayer card featured the following quote from the saint: “God has created me to do some definite service; he has committed some work to me which He has not committed to another. I have my

mission- I may never know it in this life, but I shall be told it in the next.”

The prayer card then concluded with the following questions: What is God asking of me today? What graces do I need to pray for God’s work? What fears are stopping me from doing what God asks of me?

Following the Mass refreshments were organised and served by young people in the cathedral hall, in honour of the Jubilee.

Read more about a new Youth initiative to support parishes on page 4.

The Catholic News. January 2026.

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MORE THAN 26 YEARS OF BRINGING THE NOTTINGHAM DIOCESE TOGETHER The monthly paper for the Diocese of Nottingham

Editor: Nick Layton Editorial Office: CathCom Ltd, N2 Blois Meadow Business Centre, Steeple Bumpstead, Haverhill, Suffolk, CB9 7BN Telephone: 01440 730399 email: cn@cathcom.org or davidl@cathcom.org Website: www.cathcom.org Distribution enquiries: cn@cathcom.org CathCom Ltd, Publication date: Fourth Sunday of the month for the following month. Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Editor or the Diocese.

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Views expressed in The Catholic News are not necessarily those of the editor.

Wanted Parish Correspondents The Catholic News is looking for a Parish Correspondent in your parish to send in local news for publication in this newspaper.

All items to be emailed to cn@cathcom.org before 10th of the month

Monthly National Catholic Newspaper www.CatholicPost.co.uk OCTOBER 2025

NOVEMBER 2025 Edition 47

Edition 46

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A letter to President

The elderly are a blessing

St Francis of Assisi: A Life of Humble Greatness 4th October

page 3

Trump

of their homes, brutal incessant bombardment loved ones and medicine creating and wounding of their blockade of food, water the famine ever the killing many children orphaned), the most brutal man-made more. Partially (leaving families through the witnessed, killing hundreds separation of their been systematically their hope in the stable destroyed buildings have evacuation, they put so as to expel the camps under the bombed to the ground future in their refugee City and enforce the entire population of Gaza protection of the USA. people who were mass exodus of a million and rubble. These later, on 15 September sheltering in those ruins But when, three weeks made a massive were already severely traumatised people hundreds of Israeli tanks near death from 1982, ceasefire, your malnourished, and some invasion breaking the more will die. land them. The tanks famine and diseases. Thousands predecessor did not protect is only one person who beings, shelling The World knows there rolled over fleeing human Largest and bring peace to the and over-ran Beirut city. can put an end to this buildings ask we Christian this in mind that Middle East. It is with a Landmark being and give its children headed for Sabra Shatila you to let Gaza live A contingent of tanks J Trump built the camp. Under the The Honourable Donald future. and hermetically sealed States of America Israeli Army who had President of the United direct control of the their command15 September 2025 page 2 We've seen this before made the Kuwaiti Embassy Shatila Massacre in centre, Christian militiamen We survived the Sabra 3,000 and-control sent into the 1982 - but more than Dear President Trump and armed by Israel were and nurses who September men, women trained torture, rape and We are a group of doctors defenceless Palestinian camp to systematically Hospital throughout unarmed and their Lebanese neighbours brutally murder the Palestinians and their worked in Beirut's Gaza Refugee Camp and children at the rate of a the Sabra Shatila Palestinian slaughtered in 3 days, 17,000 Lebanese neighbours.

Unsplash years ago. We are were Massacre in 1982, 43 killed each day. A further Library of Congress photo. of the massacre which thousand Lebanese returned to their and never and witnesses and survivors abducted Together with Palestinian to be Lebanese but answered of the Israeli Army were to save the lives of They claimed took place under the watch They forced us to medical staff we battled people round the families. at directly to the Israeli Army. injured patients - shot And now, like countless feared for the lives of by hundreds of severely with horror, pain and to pile leave at gunpoint. We be shot under the ceasefire brokered world, we have watched machine guns. We had concerned they would killing and It happened your point blank by of patients the our in Envoy livestreamed other East each owed their on top of anguish the relentless Phillip Habib, the Middle a the dead bodies once we left. Our patients since 7 October 2023.

Ronald Reagan. After there was no space left. dead medical student demolition of Gaza ever predecessor President hospital mortuary as a Swedish nurse and a official body count of of Lebanon by land, fled into our hospital lives to stayed to care for

By January 2025, the ten-week bombardment Frightened camp people refused to leave and least 50,000, with a a blockade of food, At night, Israel launched who Gazans killed was at air and sea together with hoping to seek safety. the rubble, of which the Palestine Liberation the sky so that the them. further 10,000 under water and medicine, military flares to illuminate more than 35,000 to mitigate further out of the hospital, we Organisation evacuated 17,835 were children, leaving atrocity could continue.

As we were marched of homes, schools, parents killed. terrorised people loss of lives and destruction kids with one or both and saw dead bodies and farms and factories. ran out of blood men and awaiting institutions, hospital gun The by up onslaught seemed out of food and water rounded bulldozers But while the escalating anaesthetics; it also ran There were large military immediately after your The most important part of the ceasefire the seeking shelter. And execution. and burying people in unstoppable, almost for the desperate people working for tearing down homes watched with bated safety of the unarmed young mother agreement was the news came that the militia inauguration, the world At one point a desperate by the Habib when you imposed on 19 to give raped and murdered rubble. guns left behind guaranteed patients, machine shot of civilians breath the ceasefire line the of Israel hospital, they fled. broke through bombs stopped. Food, Peace Plan. With this assurance, hundreds flash, a gunman January 2025. The nurses in a neighbouring baby to one of us. In a beleaguered Gaza, traumatised, hungry on to operate on the her little and child were thousands of displaced, medicine and fuel entered Our medical team stayed ordered her back. Mother Gazans walked orphans returned to them. the others rounded people and wounded as nearly a million displaced wounded and cared for gunned down along with towards their broken rebuild their broken homes and shattered left. from displacement the roadside after we a Trump-made miracle. lives.

September 1982, our up by homes. Some called it On the morning of 18 later, we watched by a group of soldiers Continued on page 2 But on 18 March, six weeks hospital was invaded breakdown of the complete trust in the at machine gun point.

We witnessed their with utter horror the who marched us out escalated and since and how, despite the protection of the USA ceasefire . Attacks on Gaza were killed, with the then more than 6,000

the letter to the US Dr Ang plans to deliver she attends the 43rd Embassy in Beirut when Shatilla Massacre on anniversary of the Sabra appeals for people to 16-18 September. She signing the letter - see show their support by 2. the QR code on page

page 6

What Happens When God Closes One Door? page 11

St Charles Borromeo: A Beacon of Reform and Compassion 4 November

Jerusalem Church leaders statement on Gaza ceasefire

DECEmbEr 2025 Edition 48

orthopaedic surgeon Dr Swee Ang, Catholic Aid for Palestine and co-founder of Medical in an Open Letter has joined with other medics for him to use to President Trump, appealing to stop the genocide his power and position in Gaza. and erasure taking place

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Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem

"[The Almighty] makes wars cease to the ends of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear, he burns the shields with fire. He says, 'Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."" (Psalm 46:9-10)

Jubilee of Prisoners

page 5

Touches of God in Atheist Nation page 13

Along with millions living throughout our wartorn region, and hundreds of millions around the globe, We, the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem, rejoice at the recent enactment of the ceasefire in Gaza, and the release of those held captive.

and to other communities in our region that continue to suffer displacement, death, injuries, hunger, and loss of livelihood. We therefore call for a rapid surge into the Gaza strip and other affected communities of not only food, clean water, fuel, and medical supplies, but also temporary shelters and medical facilities all as a prelude to a speedily enacted and exhaustive program for the massive clearing and rebuilding of destroyed homes, businesses, and civilian infrastructure.

At the same time, we continue to view with great concern the increasing violence against St Nicholas - 6th December local communities in the West Bank in We would like to take this opportunity to connection with settlement expansions there. recognize the enormous efforts of all those in We therefore appeal to the concerned parties the international community who worked and the international community as a whole to relentlessly to accomplish this major widen the scope of the current negotiations to achievement. include an end of the Occupation of both the West Bank and Gaza, leading to the We hope and trust that this first stage of the establishment of a Palestinian state living sideceasefire truly signals the end of the Gaza War, by-side in peace with the present State of and that any further disagreements between Israel. Only in this way, we believe, will a just the parties will be resolved through and lasting peace be truly established in the negotiation and mediation, applying the Holy Land and throughout the larger Middle utmost restraint, rather than the resumption East. of hostilities. Indeed, our region as a whole has suffered long enough to contemplate We would also like to give a special word of otherwise. Now is clearly the time to embark encouragement to those living inside St upon the very long pathway of healing and Porphyrios Orthodox Church and Holy Family reconciliation that is so profoundly needed Catholic Church, as well as those serving at Albetween Palestinians and Israelis.

Ahli Anglican Hospital: Your perseverance in faith amidst the immeasurable hardships of We are especially encouraged by the the past two years has served as a shining commitment demonstrated by the example for us all. We pledge to you our participants of the Sharm EI-Sheikh Summit continued prayers and support, where we will marking the commencement of this work diligently to ensure that the weeks and giving thanks agreement, and by many other to the Almighty for leading us international months ahead to will be a vindication of your this actors, and we hope that this impressive auspicious moment, even as global trust in God's divine we realize providence. mobilization will soon materialize that the work of peacebuilding into a widehas only just scale humanitarian operation begun. May God grant us all that offers In this spirit, we the grace to join with our fellow Christians rededicate immediate relief to the Palestinians ourselves to this vital task, of Gaza and others of goodwill around the world in shepherding us toward that golden age of

Pope to COP30: We are guardians of creation

free in your parish, the Catholic Post for per year!

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In a world caught between the roar of storms and the silence of inaction, Pope Leo XIV spoke not merely as a religious leader, but as a voice for our shared home. He reminded us that the health of our planet, the dignity of every human being, and the hope for lasting peace are inseparable.

He opened with a sharp recognition of reality: “In the midst of a world that is in flames, as a result of both global warming and armed conflicts,” he told the gathering, this conference must become “a sign of hope.” The imagery is stark — fire, flames, crisis — yet the underlying message is one of possibility, not despair.

He pointed out that peace is not simply the absence of war, but the presence of justice, respect for creation, and solidarity among nations. “If you want to cultivate peace, care for creation,” he urged. In other words, our treatment of the Earth reflects our respect for each other.

And he did not mince words about the moral dimension. The ecological crisis, he said, “is a moral issue” — one that reveals our interdependence and calls for a new solidarity, especially between wealthier and highly industrialised nations, and those most vulnerable to climate impacts. He reminded us

peace so long envisioned by the prophets and sages of old and for which our Lord Jesus Christ himself gave up his own life, rising to new life beyond the grave.

The Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem

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that the poorest and most vulnerable will pay the highest price if we fail.

reflect a new understanding of our place in creation.

He acknowledged progress — referencing the Paris Agreement of 2015 — but candidly observed that the “path remains long and complex”. Words alone, he declared, are insufficient. They must be transformed into choices and actions rooted in responsibility, justice and equity.

He spoke of a “new human-centred international financial architecture” that ensures especially the poorest and most vulnerable are enabled to participate, to flourish, and to protect their dignity. He invited “education in integral ecology” that shows how personal, family, community and political choices shape our future.

But perhaps the most compelling vision was his call for an “ecological conversion” — an interior as well as external change. He urged that our finances, our education, our policies

The Mood of Christmas We are about to take our first steps on our journey through 2026. January, named after the Roman god Janus is a time for reflection on what has passed and hope for what is to come.

To find the lost.

To heal the broken.

To feed the hungry.

To release the prisoner.

To rebuild the nations.

To bring peace among nations.

To make music in the heart.

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SVP members will be looking back on what they have done and achieved in the past 12 months and will then be looking forward to how they can continue to support those in need, such as those referred to in Howard Thurman’s narrative. Each conference will be looking to make a difference to those in need in their locality and would appreciate your continuing support in 2026 in the following ways: 1. Join the conference in your parish, or start up a conference if your parish does not have one.

2. Donate to the SVP to support the work they do.

3. Pray for the SVP and the work they do.

Should you require further details about any of the above please contact Joe Gasan, our Membership Support Officer at joeg@svp.org.uk

Soon Christmas will be over and we will have celebrated the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Most will have enjoyed a time of festivity, celebration and enjoyment.

However, for some the new year will continue to bring challenges, hardship and difficulty.

The SVP will approach 2026 like every other year, facing all challenges that come its way. Members will know that whilst Christmas and the New Year offer some extra respite to those in need with raised levels of effort and support, January and beyond can be likened to the time ‘after the Lord Mayor’s show’.

May I take this opportunity to wish you a happy and fulfilling 2026.

Frankly Speaking The first Sunday in Advent this year coincided with the day when we celebrate the feast of Saint Andrew, The Patron Saint of Scotland was a follower of John the Baptist and became the “First Called” Apostle with his brother Simon known as Peter as they left their fishing nets to follow Jesus.

did in playing a significant role in Christ’s ministry.

When Saint Pope John Paul visited Scotland in 1982 he cited the familiar story of the loaves and fishes. The Pope said “Saint Andrew gave Jesus all that was available to feed those five thousand people and still had something left over.”

More words were added which are surely relevant today. The then Pontiff said, “It is exactly the same with your own lives, you feel conscious and afraid of the future.”

Just prior to Advent, two rather significant occurrences made a deep impression with our news reporting and perhaps social media. The first being the Budget. One comment was simply that households face a “truly dismal” increase in living standards over the next five years. This was not what we wanted to hear just four weeks before Christmas Day. The reference I made to the loaves and fishes incorporated the compassion needed and put into practice by both Saint Andrew and into words every time when we pray the Lord’s Prayer.

Perhaps we missed out on compassion in at least some reaction from our politicians to the recent Budget.

The then future Saint John Paul urged the congregation at the National Shrine of Saint Andrew to follow Jesus as Andrew

The second very notable Advent news story saw Pope Leo visiting Türkiye and Lebanon which is on going as this article is written.

Continued on page 3

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When the song of angels is stilled, When the star in the sky is gone, When the kings and princes are home, When the shepherds are back with their flock, The work of Christmas begins:

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This extract taken from ‘The Mood of Christmas’ by Howard Thurman offers an excellent example of why the work of the SVP never ends.

By Frank Goulding Pope Francis had planned this pilgrimage to mark an important anniversary with the long suffering Christians and those of all faiths in Lebanon. In a year of at least controversial world leadership the Pope lamented “the high number of conflicts with humanity’s future at risk”. Türkiye has around 86 million Muslims but in his first visit outside Italy since his election in May the Pope reminded the world that “we are all children of God”.

I have no doubt during Advent many acts of kindness will have occurred in our lives but as we look forward to 2026 let us not forget those who live in genuine poverty of the homeless. Those who work at Christmas to keep us safe are special too.

A Peaceful Christmas wish to all readers.

The Catholic News. January 2026.

The Festive Spirit

“It is required of every man ... that the spirit within him should walk abroad among his fellow man ...”

On Thursday 4th December in the parish hall at St Hugh’s Church, the people of Lincoln were offered a spiritual boost for their Advent and Christmas preparations, through a dramatised reading of the Charles Dickens classic ‘A Christmas Carol’ in which, over the course of one night the main character, Scrooge, is visited by four ghosts, resulting in his conversion and gratitude for the chance, whilst he still has time, to make amends. A cast of over twenty individuals (including parishioners and non-parishioners) from across the city and beyond, came together on the night for the performance, with positive feedback received from the audience. There was a festive spirit to the evening, which not only brought community together but also gave a timely reminder of our ongoing need of reflection, repentance and renewal, alongside an opportunity to ‘walk abroad among our fellow man’ by a monetary collection for the food bank of a nearby Catholic secondary school (St Peter & St Paul Academy) which held hopes to create Christmas hampers for over thirty local families in need.

Many thanks go to Mike and his wife, Ruth, parishioners of St Hugh’s Church, for both

the idea and all their time and work organising the event, as well as to everyone who supported it. As we now look to the unfolding of a new year, with all its uncertainties, may we echo Tiny Tim and together pray “God bless us, every one!”.

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The Catholic News. January 2026.

Growing and Equipping Parish Youth Ministry This January the Diocesan Youth Service is launching a new initiative to support parishes This January the Diocesan Youth Service is launching a new initiative to support parishes to develop local youth ministry provision in response to our recent review.

As we sought to answer the question What do we want for the young people of the diocese of Nottingham? - the need to support youth ministry at a grassroots level became evident from listening to stakeholders.

In direct response to this we are launching two complementary initiatives: 1. The Bethsaida Training course to equip volunteers to begin local youth ministry initiatives 2. A regular Network Meeting to support, encourage and share good practice amongst volunteers The Bethsaida course is the training programme designed to enable volunteers to gain the tools and knowledge to begin parish youth ministry in their community.

Bethsaida is a tried and tested resource developed in a neighbouring diocese where it has successfully supported volunteers and led to the opening of over 60 parish youth groups. As we launch this exciting

initiative in the diocese of Nottingham we are praying for the same fruitfulness in our parishes.

The course consists of a series of workshops combined with practical experience of youth work in your parish or deanery. Sessions include; - Called to a definite service - Creating an engaging youth programme - Sharing our faith - Group work and leadership - Creating a safe environment We are launching the training in person at the Briars on the 31st of January (13.00 16.00), which is also the feast of Don Bosco patron Saint of young people. There will then be 4 online sessions to complete the 5 week training course. Subsequent sessions will take place online on Tuesday 3rd February, Tuesday 10th February, Tuesday 24th February and the course will complete on Tuesday 3rd March.

Each of the sessions lasts for two hours via zoom during this 5 week training course in youth ministry where participants will be led by experienced professionals to grow in

knowledge and skills that they can take back to their parish. Participants of this training course will need to complete the usual Diocesan protocol for volunteers working with young people including a DBS before beginning their work with young people.

From: Elston Hermitage…….....

A Very Happy New Year 2026 to you all from The Hermitage of Our Lady & Saint Benedict here at Elston. We pray that God will shower you and your loved ones with many blessings and graces in this New Year.

The Church celebrates New Year’s Day in a special way by honouring Mary as the Mother of God. But Mary is not just the Mother of God she is our Mother as well.

And as the Catechism teaches us, because Mary is our Mother, she is also our “Advocate, Helper, Benefactress, and Mediatrix” (CCC.969) Not all of us have mothers, spiritual or otherwise, to guide us in our faith. But we all have Mary, the perfect spiritual mother. Through her prayers of intercession, she continues to care for us.

Through her example in the Scriptures and her message in places like Lourdes, Fatima and closer to home Walsingham, she teaches us to reflect on the Word of God. And through her motherly love, she is always ready to embrace us and draw us closer to her Son. Truly she is Blessed among women - and we are blessed to have her.

We know that Mary herself pondered and treasured everything that came from God. (Luke 3:19) She dwelt on what the

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shepherds told her. She also pondered and treasured Gabriel’s visit at the Annunciation. She pondered and treasured how the Magi were led to the manger by God’s star. She pondered and treasured what the young Jesus said when they found he had stayed behind to teach the elders in the Temple.

So right at the beginning of this New Year let us try to see how Mary is asking us to take time to ponder daily on who Jesus is and what he has done for us. Imagine Mary asking us to treasure him above everything else. Take a look at Mary’s Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) this prayer shows how much Mary loved to praise and glorify God. Let us try and see in this New Year how Mary is asking us to join with her in praising God with all our hearts. Imagine her inviting us to dedicate the first affections of our hearts to Jesus, by rejoicing in him, singing to him and worshipping him.

Mary is not only our Mother, she is our prayer partner as well!

So let’s join her today and pray, our own Magnificat.

Jesus, let my soul magnify you! Let my spirit rejoice in your salvation.

Image: Juan Carlos Leva:

The Catholic News. January 2026.

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Altar Servers are doing the Nottingham Cathedral proud The zeal and passion of Clem, a seasoned altar server himself, has nurtured and guided the altar servers at the Nottingham Cathedral by a programme of monthly meetings in the Cathedral Hall. These meetings included instruction on all matters concerning their roles while serving at the weekend Holy Masses as well as special instruction given for assistance at the Bishop Holy Masses. It is evident that they have made great progress’s in all these matters, wonderful attendance at all our Masses, understanding why they do what they do and working and supporting each other along the way. Clem has introduced fun Quizzes to challenge their learning. The final Quiz took place on Saturday 29 November. The altar servers received an encouraging video message from Bishop Patrick prior to the event.

A wonderful afternoon supported by Deacon David, refreshments of pizzas and nibbles, a lot of fun was had by all as the six teams battled it out.

We look forward to inviting our newly trained servers to the feast of St Stephen’s Holy Mass on the 26 December to receive their medals and certificates. All of this has been made possible by the amazing support of the their parents, to whom we are very grateful. If you would like to join

Clem and his team (Emmanuel and Gabriel) please see the posters on the Cathedral noticeboard for further details.

Submitted on behalf of the Nottingham Cathedral

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Largest Christian Landmark being built

Jubilee of Prisoners

Touches of God in Atheist Nation

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St Nicholas - 6th December

Pope to COP30: We are guardians of creation

In a world caught between the roar of storms and the silence of inaction, Pope Leo XIV spoke not merely as a religious leader, but as a voice for our shared home. He reminded us that the health of our planet, the dignity of every human being, and the hope for lasting peace are inseparable.

He pointed out that peace is not simply the absence of war, but the presence of justice, respect for creation, and solidarity among nations. “If you want to cultivate peace, care for creation,” he urged. In other words, our treatment of the Earth reflects our respect for each other.

He opened with a sharp recognition of reality: “In the midst of a world that is in flames, as a result of both global warming and armed conflicts,” he told the gathering, this conference must become “a sign of hope.” The imagery is stark — fire, flames, crisis — yet the underlying message is one of possibility, not despair.

And he did not mince words about the moral dimension. The ecological crisis, he said, “is a moral issue” — one that reveals our interdependence and calls for a new solidarity, especially between wealthier and highly industrialised nations, and those most vulnerable to climate impacts. He reminded us

that the poorest and most vulnerable will pay the highest price if we fail.

reflect a new understanding of our place in creation.

He acknowledged progress — referencing the Paris Agreement of 2015 — but candidly observed that the “path remains long and complex”. Words alone, he declared, are insufficient. They must be transformed into choices and actions rooted in responsibility, justice and equity.

He spoke of a “new human-centred international financial architecture” that ensures especially the poorest and most vulnerable are enabled to participate, to flourish, and to protect their dignity. He invited “education in integral ecology” that shows how personal, family, community and political choices shape our future.

But perhaps the most compelling vision was his call for an “ecological conversion” — an interior as well as external change. He urged that our finances, our education, our policies

Continued on page 3

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The Catholic News. January 2026.

Scripture Focus

By Fr Jeremy Corley

New Beginnings The New Year is a time for new beginnings, so it is fitting for us to celebrate the Feast of the Lord’s Baptism on Sunday 11th January.

Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist marks the start of his public ministry, while our own baptism marks the beginning of our Christian life.

Recalling these events can give us fresh energy as we begin the New Year.

In the first reading for the feast, the prophet Isaiah announces the coming of a saving leader, but the emphasis is on gentle service rather than brute force. As the prophet tells us, God describes this figure as “my chosen one, in whom my soul delights.” He is empowered by God’s Spirit to bring justice, not just to the people of Israel but to other nations as well.

What is unusual about this leader is his quiet way of behaving—he does not lift up his voice or shout loudly. Instead,

his gentleness is seen when he takes care not to break a crushed reed or to snuff out a dimly burning candle. This leader will become a light to the nations, bringing prisoners out of their dungeons.

Within biblical history, the prophet was addressing the demoralised Jewish exiles in Babylon, offering them hope. Before long, the Persian king Cyrus would come and set them free, allowing them to return to the Holy Land and rebuild their lives. But the Church sees a deeper meaning in Isaiah’s prophecy, pointing ahead to the coming of Christ.

At the time of Jesus, the Jewish people were still under the rule of an alien power, now the Romans. Many were looking for a political leader to save them from foreign domination. John the Baptist announced that God was going to send a mighty Saviour, and so he called the sinful people to prepare by being baptised.

But when Jesus arrived, he did not begin by making a great noise or a massive show of force. Instead, he queued up with the other people waiting for baptism. Even when John the Baptist tried to dissuade him, he insisted that he needed to unite himself with the other sinful people being baptised—as he would later do on the cross.

Only at the end of the baptism did the divine approval become visible. Yes, Jesus was indeed God’s Servant, sent to bring justice to the nations by first uniting himself with sinners. He was demonstrably filled with the Spirit, who descended on him like a dove, and in this way, God publicly acknowledged him as his beloved Son. It was evident that he was the chosen one, in whom God was delighted.

From now on, Jesus would begin his mission to bring light to the whole world.

He would open the eyes of the blind, both physically and spiritually, and bring freedom to those imprisoned by their sins.

As we recall Jesus’ baptism, we are reminded of our own baptism, when we became God’s children, able to address God as our Father. In baptism and confirmation, we were filled with the power of God’s Spirit, to enable us to live our Christian lives. We were empowered to play our part in bringing justice to the world.

Like the servant described by Isaiah, Jesus’ way was one of gentleness. He did not bring destruction but rather hope and renewal. He showed us that the meek and gentle will inherit the earth.

As we celebrate Jesus’ baptism, we are invited once again to say yes to the grace of our own baptism, whether or not we remember the actual ceremony. We have received the gift of becoming God’s beloved children—let us pray for the grace to live like Jesus, our elder Brother.

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The Catholic News. January 2026.

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St Peter & St Paul’s church, Lincoln, annual Christmas Fayre The Lord High Sherrif of Lincolnshire, Mr. David Chambers, opened St Peter & St Paul’s (SSPP) church, Lincoln, annual Christmas Fayre on the Saturday of the first week of Advent 2025, hosted by Canon Geoffrey Hunton.

Overall planning and execution by Claire Baker with each stall organised and hosted by numerous members of the congregation who generously donated their time and energy to make everyone feel welcome.

The Fayre ran for three sessions before and after masses and was open to the local community.

The instant reward stalls were very popular – the chocolate raffle and bottle stalls being favourites.

Many came to do a bit of early Christmas shopping from the donated items stall sticked with every imaginable goodie from jewellery to decorative items and brandnamed toiletries.

Many new and pristine pre-loved toys were donated and there were lots of bargains to be had as well as keeping Santa happy in the knowledge toys had been treasured before being sent on to new homes for a good cause.

Santa was in attendance in person much to the delight of everyone, a lot of hard work and imagination went into creating a magical grotto where he felt at home to welcome the children.

SSPP’s Crafty Crafters impressed shoppers with an array of unique and limited edition handmade gifts – everything from bookmarks, to scented candles, scarves and shawls to Christmas decorations, toys and ceramic mugs.

Students from St Peter & St Paul’s High School also offered and impressive array of handcrafted Christmas decorations and in spirational decorative items.

Home baked patisserie was available courtesy of the Polish ladies whose festive cakes sold out rapidly! For those who couldn’t wait until getting home, there was space to sit and enjoy, with tea or coffee in the snug!

Proceedings were concluded with two raffles: the much anticipated Grand Parish raffle, items kindly donated by members of the church, with rounds of applause and congratulations for each lucky winner.

Finally, the Crafty Crafters Raffle: a hand knit and crochet Noah’s Ark complete with animals, ark and Noah and his wife (1st prize), knitted Nativity (2nd prize) and crocheted angel (3rd prize).

Lord High Sherrif of Lincolnshire, Mr David Chambers and Canon Geoffrey Hunton

Everyone was delighted when the winner donated the first prize to the primary/ junior school – an early Christmas present!

Santa in his grotto

Almost ready to open!

The ever-popular bottle and chocolate stalls

Knitted Nativity and handmade stable!

Images: L Roberts

Page 8

The Catholic News. January 2026.

View from the Pew

By Dr Jay Kettle-Williams

Hold your horses well in hand!

Monthly National Catholic Newspaper Catholic news and stories from across the nation and beyond to build the Catholic community and deepen Faith DECEmbEr 2025 Edition 48

www.CatholicPost.co.uk

Largest Christian Landmark being built

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St Nicholas - 6th December

Pope to COP30: We are guardians of creation

In a world caught between the roar of storms and the silence of inaction, Pope Leo XIV spoke not merely as a religious leader, but as a voice for our shared home. He reminded us that the health of our planet, the dignity of every human being, and the hope for lasting peace are inseparable.

He pointed out that peace is not simply the absence of war, but the presence of justice, respect for creation, and solidarity among nations. “If you want to cultivate peace, care for creation,” he urged. In other words, our treatment of the Earth reflects our respect for each other.

He opened with a sharp recognition of reality: “In the midst of a world that is in flames, as a result of both global warming and armed conflicts,” he told the gathering, this conference must become “a sign of hope.” The imagery is stark — fire, flames, crisis — yet the underlying message is one of possibility, not despair.

And he did not mince words about the moral dimension. The ecological crisis, he said, “is a moral issue” — one that reveals our interdependence and calls for a new solidarity, especially between wealthier and highly industrialised nations, and those most vulnerable to climate impacts. He reminded us

that the poorest and most vulnerable will pay the highest price if we fail.

reflect a new understanding of our place in creation.

He acknowledged progress — referencing the Paris Agreement of 2015 — but candidly observed that the “path remains long and complex”. Words alone, he declared, are insufficient. They must be transformed into choices and actions rooted in responsibility, justice and equity.

He spoke of a “new human-centred international financial architecture” that ensures especially the poorest and most vulnerable are enabled to participate, to flourish, and to protect their dignity. He invited “education in integral ecology” that shows how personal, family, community and political choices shape our future.

But perhaps the most compelling vision was his call for an “ecological conversion” — an interior as well as external change. He urged that our finances, our education, our policies

Continued on page 3

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My paternal grandfather’s party trick when I was barely a toddler was to sit me on his knee, to hold my arms firmly and to give the order: ‘Hold your horses well in hand, the battery’s going to trot!’ He’d then bounce me gently up and down. The next command was to ‘Hold your horses well in hand, the battery’s going to canter!’ and the bounce and rhythm would intensify. Then, with the final command - ‘Hold your horses well in hand, the battery’s going to gallop!’ - all Hell would break loose and I’d be flying up and down giggling madly as my Grandmother looked on, feigning disapproval as she tuttered.

Well, I’ve ridden a horse, the real equine brute of a vehicle, only twice in my life: once in Spain and once in South America. On both occasions the beasts, strangely beloved of so many, bolted. The experience at my grandfather’s knee must have put me in good stead, especially when it came to the gallop: Hang on! Subsequently in life, I suppose I could have developed my horsemanship to better effect, if I had persevered.

Perseverance is a valuable quality and one I greatly admire. That’s no more so than among those who do not bear witness to their Christian faith in that mealy-mouthed way I attribute to myself but who stand up, go forth and publicly respond forcibly to the Christian challenge.

Among those whom I acknowledge in this regard are members of those ordinariates which were ushered in by Pope Benedict XVI on 4 November 2009 in his Anglicanorum Coetibus, the apostolic constitution establishing ‘ordinariates’ for former Anglicans who wanted full communion with the Catholic Church while preserving elements of their prayer and heritage.

A recent report has found that more than one third of clergy ordained in England and

Wales over the last three decades (19922024) are former Anglican clergy. The report explores the staggering statistic of the journey from the Anglican priesthood to, not only the Catholic Church, but the Catholic priesthood.

That report, compiled by the St Barnabas Society, which provides support to Catholic clergy who have converted, was led by Stephen Bullivant, a professor of theology and the sociology of religion at St Mary’s University, Twickenham, in southwest London.

It turns out that some 700 former clergy and religious from the Anglican Church (Church of England, Church in Wales, or Scottish Episcopal Church) have converted to the Catholic Church since 1992. The research shows that this number includes 16 former Anglican bishops, the overall ‘surge’ being partly driven by the Anglican move to ordain women in the Church of England.

Cardinal Vincent Nichols, the Catholic Archbishop of Westminster, said he was glad to understand more about ‘the movement of clergy from the Church of England into full communion with the Catholic Church in recent times’. But he was hesitant about the word ‘convert’ used in some quarters, pointing out that St Paul did not ‘convert’ from Judaism to Christianity, rather that he ‘did not so much renounce his Jewish upbringing and practice as go beyond it, into something he understood to be its completion’.

Such ‘completion’ [sic] then brings two issues firmly to the fore: The ordination of women to the priesthood; Celibacy.

On the former point, many argue that social mores have changed dramatically since the times of Jesus. They propose it’s now high time to update certain practices of old. To settle that ongoing debate about women’s

ordination and to reaffirm the Church’s long-standing tradition, Pope John Paul II stated on the May 22 1994 in the Apostolic Letter Ordinatio Sacerdotalis to all bishops of the Catholic Church that the Catholic Church has no authority whatsoever to confer priestly ordination on women. To this day that document remains among the most cited documents about gender and ministry in the Catholic Church.

On the latter point, I well remember one priest’s announcement that Catholic priests have no option but to accept celibacy, whether they like it or not. Not that he put it in so many words. However, at that point his audience fell immediately and embarrassedly silent. But then all present, including the priest himself, burst into raucous laughter at the turn of phrase he had used to stress the point he was making.

I leave it to you, dear Reader, to wrestle with the conundrum as to what were the actual words uttered by the priest and which, after a moment’s hesitation, prompted widespread mirth.

Of all the charisms granted us, let’s never forget our sense of humour.

Notes, Acknowledgements and Attribution: Accompanying image (Statue with Blowing Horn) after the sculpture Exultate Jubilate

by Philip Jackson; Texts/References adapted and/or adopted from http://en.wikipedia.org under the terms of the Creative Commons AttributionShareAlike License 4.0: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/bysa/4.0/ Dr J L Kettle-Williams is an experienced business communications consultant and wordsmith (tutor, writer, translator).

The Catholic News. January 2026.

Page 9

St Mary’s Derby ACN Apostles interview Bishop John Bakeni from Nigeria

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of their homes, brutal incessant bombardment ones and medicine creating wounding of their loved blockade of food, water ever the killing and orphaned), the man-made famine the most brutal (leaving many children the families through hundreds more. Partially witnessed, killing separation of their their hope in the stable have been systematically destroyed buildings evacuation, they put the so as to expel the refugee camps under bombed to the ground the future in their Gaza City and enforce of the USA. entire population of were protection million people who mass exodus of a rubble. These later, on 15 September in those ruins and But when, three weeks a massive the letter to the US sheltering were already severely of Israeli tanks made Dr Ang plans to deliver traumatised people from 1982, hundreds your she attends the 43rd and some near death breaking the ceasefire, Embassy in Beirut when die. land invasion The tanks Shatilla Massacre on malnourished, Thousands more will did not protect them. anniversary of the Sabra to famine and diseases. who predecessor shelling appeals for people there is only one person fleeing human beings, 16-18 September. She - see The World knows the rolled over by signing the letter and bring peace to Beirut city. this to over-ran Largest end and an show their support put can ask buildings 2. this in mind that we Christian the QR code on page Middle East. It is with a and give its children headed for Sabra Shatila Landmark being you to let Gaza live A contingent of tanks J Trump the camp. Under the built The Honourable Donald future. and hermetically sealed States of America Army who had United Israeli the the of of President direct control their commandWe've seen this before 15 September 2025 made the Kuwaiti Embassy page 2 militiamen Shatila Massacre in centre, Christian We survived the Sabra the than 3,000 and-control Israel were sent into Dear President Trump and nurses who September 1982 - but more trained and armed by doctors torture, rape and Palestinian men, women We are a group of to systematically unarmed defenceless neighbours camp Gaza Hospital throughout Palestinians and their and their Lebanese worked in Beirut's brutally murder the Refugee Camp and children at the rate of a the Sabra Shatila Palestinian ago. We are were slaughtered in 3 days, Lebanese neighbours. photo. Unsplash 43 years day. A further 17,000 Library of Congress Massacre in 1982, thousand killed each Lebanese of the massacre which and returned to their but answered never survivors and and Palestinian witnesses Together with Army were abducted claimed to be Lebanese us to watch of the Israeli to save the lives of They Army. They forced took place under the medical staff we battled - shot at directly to the Israeli people round the families. lives of We feared for the of severely injured patients And now, like countless had to pile leave at gunpoint. brokered by hundreds with horror, pain and they would be shot under the ceasefire by machine guns. We world, we have watched in the our patients concerned of your point blank killing and It happened other Envoy their each East livestreamed of top the Middle Our patients owed bodies on anguish the relentless left. dead once we left.

2023. Phillip Habib, After a the dead student there was no space ever since 7 October President Ronald Reagan. nurse and a medical demolition of Gaza hospital mortuary as of predecessor hospital lives to a Swedish for of Lebanon by land, official body count people fled into our and stayed to care

By January 2025, the a ten-week bombardment a blockade of food, Frightened camp who refused to leave with At night, Israel launched at least 50,000, with air and sea together hoping to seek safety.

Gazans killed was so that the them. the Palestine Liberation the rubble, of which to illuminate the sky water and medicine, further 10,000 under further military flares we leaving more than 35,000 Organisation evacuated to mitigate out of the hospital, atrocity could continue.

17,835 were children, As we were marched of homes, schools, terrorised people parents killed. loss of lives and destruction dead bodies and kids with one or both factories. out of blood and saw and awaiting up by gun men institutions, farms and The hospital ran rounded water and seemed food bulldozers onslaught ran out of There were large military anaesthetics; it also But while the escalating your seeking shelter. And execution. part of the ceasefire people in the immediately after homes and burying The most important for the desperate people unstoppable, almost working for tearing down young mother watched with bated agreement was the safety of the unarmed came that the militia At one point a desperate inauguration, the world Habib when news 19 guns to give raped and murdered rubble. guaranteed by the you imposed on civilians left behind through the line of machine breath the ceasefire of Israel shot patients, broke fled. they Food, hundreds hospital, assurance, bombs stopped. us. In a flash, a gunman Peace Plan. With this nurses in a neighbouring little baby to one of January 2025. The were traumatised, hungry on to operate on the her beleaguered Gaza, Mother and child medical team stayed thousands of displaced, medicine and fuel entered ordered her back. returned to Our displaced Gazans walked people and wounded orphans with the others rounded and cared for them. as nearly a million gunned down along shattered wounded towards their broken rebuild their broken homes and after we left. roadside the from displacement by our up 18 September 1982, it a Trump-made miracle. lives.

On the morning of homes. Some called 2 of soldiers Continued on page weeks later, we watched was invaded by a group But on 18 March, six the trust in the hospital machine gun point. the breakdown of witnessed their complete marched us out at with utter horror since We despite the who Gaza escalated and of the USA and how, protection ceasefire . Attacks on were killed, with the then more than 6,000

orthopaedic surgeon Dr Swee Ang, Catholic Medical Aid for Palestine and co-founder of medics in an Open Letter has joined with other use appealing for him to to President Trump, to stop the genocide his power and position place in Gaza. and erasure taking

The Catholic Police Guild

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What Happens When God Closes One Door? page 11

St Charles Borromeo: A Beacon of Reform and Compassion 4 November

Jerusalem Church leader s statement on Gaza ceasefi re

DECEmbEr 2025 Edition 48

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Patriarchate of Jerusalem

"[The Almighty] makes wars cease to the ends of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear, he burns the shields with fire. He says, 'Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."" (Psalm 46:9-10)

Jubilee of Prisoners

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and to other communities in our region that continue to suffer displacement, death, injuries, hunger, and loss of livelihood. We therefore call for a rapid surge into the Gaza strip and other affected communities of not only food, clean water, fuel, and medical supplies, but also temporary shelters and medical facilities all as a prelude to a speedily enacted and exhaustive program for the massive clearing and rebuilding of destroyed homes, businesses, and civilian infrastructure.

Along with millions living throughout our wartorn region, and hundreds of millions around the globe, We, the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem, rejoice at the recent enactment of the ceasefire in Gaza, and the At the same time, we continue to view with release of those held captive. great concern the increasing violence against local communities in the West Bank in take this opportunity to connection with settlement expansions there. recognize the enormous efforts of all those in We therefore appeal to the concerned parties the international community who worked and the international community as a whole to relentlessly to accomplish this major widen the scope of the current negotiations achievement. to include an end of the Occupation of both the West Bank and Gaza, leading to the We hope and trust that this first stage of the establishment of a Palestinian state living sideceasefire truly signals the end of the Gaza War, by-side in peace with the present State of and that any further disagreements between Israel. Only in this way, we believe, will a just the parties will be resolved through and lasting peace be truly established negotiation and mediation, in the applying the Holy Land and throughout the larger Middle utmost restraint, rather than the resumption East. of hostilities. Indeed, our region as a whole has suffered long enough to contemplate We would also like to give a special word otherwise. Now is clearly of the time to embark encouragement to those living inside St upon the very long pathway of healing and Porphyrios Orthodox Church and Holy Family reconciliation that is so profoundly needed Catholic Church, as well as those serving at between Palestinians and AlIsraelis.

Ahli Anglican Hospital: Your perseverance in faith amidst the immeasurable We are especially encouraged hardships of by the the past two years has served as a shining commitment demonstrated by the example for us all. We participants of the Sharm pledge to you our EI-Sheikh Summit continued prayers and support, where marking the commencement we will of this work diligently to ensure that the weeks agreement, and by many and giving thanks to the Almighty other international months for leading us to ahead will be a vindication actors, and we hope that this of your this auspicious moment, impressive global trust in even as we realize God's divine providence. mobilization will soon materialize that the work of peacebuilding into a widehas only just scale humanitarian operation begun. May God grant us that offers In this spirit, all the grace to we join with our fellow Christians immediate relief to the Palestinians rededicate ourselves to of Gaza and others of goodwill around this vital task, the world in shepherding us toward that golden age of

- 6th December Nicholas StWe would like to

Pope to COP30: We are guardians of creation

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peace so long envisioned by the prophets and sages of old and for which our Lord Jesus Christ himself gave up his own life, rising to new life beyond the grave.

The Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem

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In a world caught between the roar of storms and the silence of inaction, Pope Leo XIV spoke not merely as a religious leader, but as a voice for our shared home. He reminded us that the health of our planet, the dignity of every human being, and the hope for lasting peace are inseparable.

He pointed out that peace is not simply the absence of war, but the presence of justice, respect for creation, and solidarity among nations. “If you want to cultivate peace, care for creation,” he urged. In other words, our treatment of the Earth reflects our respect for each other.

He opened with a sharp recognition of reality: “In the midst of a world that is in flames, as a result of both global warming and armed conflicts,” he told the gathering, this conference must become “a sign of hope.” The imagery is stark — fire, flames, crisis — yet the underlying message is one of possibility, not despair.

And he did not mince words about the moral dimension. The ecological crisis, he said, “is a moral issue” — one that reveals our interdependence and calls for a new solidarity, especially between wealthier and highly industrialised nations, and those most vulnerable to climate impacts. He reminded us

that the poorest and most vulnerable will pay the highest price if we fail.

reflect a new understanding of our place in creation.

He acknowledged progress — referencing the Paris Agreement of 2015 — but candidly observed that the “path remains long and complex”. Words alone, he declared, are insufficient. They must be transformed into choices and actions rooted in responsibility, justice and equity.

He spoke of a “new human-centred international financial architecture” that ensures especially the poorest and most vulnerable are enabled to participate, to flourish, and to protect their dignity. He invited “education in integral ecology” that shows how personal, family, community and political choices shape our future.

But perhaps the most compelling vision was his call for an “ecological conversion” — an interior as well as external change. He urged that our finances, our education, our policies

Continued on page 3

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www.catholicpost.co.uk Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) Apostles were privileged to be able to interview Bishop John Bakeni from North Eastern Nigeria via video link.

Along with other ACN School Apostles they asked Bishop John questions to learn more about what life is like for many Christians in Nigeria.

It can be a dangerous and volatile area to live and work. Attacks on Christians are a daily reality, and he has witnessed explosions near to where he lives. Women and children are in particular danger, and at one point schools had to be closed due to the conflict. Malnutrition and hunger are a part of life for many. Shockingly between 2009 and 2024 200 Catholic churches were

destroyed.

Christians are also discriminated against in areas such as jobs.

The Nigerian people remain strong in their faith. The Church does its best to look after displaced children and families.

Just before the interview, Bishop John had been told of an attack on Christians, a number of people had died including children.

The enemy are the terrorists, bandits and extremists that prevent Christians and Muslims in Nigeria from living in a peaceful environment. Sadly these people have no respect for life.

We can help with our prayers and donations. Prayer is like a shield he told the children.

Things were very different when Bishop John was growing up in Nigeria, life was more peaceful. The last 20 years have seen severe conflict and terrorism, with bandits taking control in some areas.

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The Catholic News. January 2026.

Parent's spectacular Christmas lights display to raise money for children's primary school Christmas came early to a street in Derby with one resident creating a spectacular festive lights display to raise money for his children’s local primary school.

Trevor Wright has adorned his front garden and house in Barrett Street, off Harvey Road in Alvaston, with up to 35 different decorations made up of thousands of LED lights – including an illuminated UFO. Money raised from donations will go towards work funded by the Parent Teachers and Friends Association at St John Fisher Catholic Voluntary Academy in Alvaston.

Mr Wright is an active member of the PTFA and although he has been putting up elaborate Christmas lights at his home for over 10 years now, this is the first time that he has decided to use them to raise money.

He said: “This is the first time we’ve started to collect donations. As I’m part of the PTFA I spoke to them and Mr Lobb, who is the Headteacher at St John Fisher, and asked if they would allow us to collect for the school. The PTFA supports lots of projects at the school. We’ve got plans for a sandpit on the field and Mr Lobb would like a large shed for storage. We also part fund things like the hoodies for Year 6 leavers and we help out with discos, the Year 6 leavers’ event and a tuck shop.

“I started putting up the Christmas lights about 10 to 12 years ago and since then the display has got bigger every year. I have three children, aged eight, seven and one and they love the lights. My neighbours love them too, everyone gets involved. We get people asking us in October when the lights are going to go up and the reaction is always amazing. I was buying lights for this year’s display before Christmas last year.

I’ve not even started on the decorations inside yet, I decorate every room, even the bathroom.

“I don’t think I have a favourite decoration but this year we do have an inflatable UFO. I don’t know if I love Christmas but I love the reaction that we get to the lights.”

Graham Lobb, Headteacher at St John Fisher, said: “We are really lucky to have an active and supportive PTFA. The lights that Mr Wright and his family share on their house are a great way to get into the Christmas spirit early. The fact they are using this to support the school is fabulous and we are very grateful.”

The Catholic News. January 2026.

Under the spotlight Regrettably for millions of Christians around the world, in countries where religious freedoms are not respected, living under the spotlight is part of every day life, with restrictions, imprisonment and death ever present dangers. St Peter & St Paul Church, in Lincoln, has used 2025 as a year for putting the global crisis that is Christian persecution under the spotlight, albeit with a positive intent, that of hoping to raise awareness and inspire action. It is an issue that appears to be close to the heart of Pope Leo XIV, who has frequently spoken of it since being elected in May. The two other Catholic churches in the city have also shined a light on the issue, be it through displaying maps highlighting the worst countries for the persecution of Christians, encouraging parishioners to pray, asking parishioners to sign an ACN petition and by a dedicated Holy Hour offered up on Red Wednesday.

At St Peter & St Paul Church starting in January, a display was put up in the church, changing frequently, to highlight the issue and provide information on some of the countries most affected, together with possible prayer resources. This was coupled with a series of events. In Lent, a pilgrimage walk from Bardney Abbey to Lincoln was offered up for the Christians in Gaza and followed a few days later by a silent Stations of the Cross. A prayer session based on testimonies of persecuted Christian women then took place in the run up to Pentecost. More recently, during Red Week (a global campaign organised each November by ACN for showing solidarity, raising awareness and encouraging action) parish priest, Canon Geoffrey, spoke of the issue during homilies and a coffee morning for Aid to the Church in Need (ACN is an aid organisation within the Catholic Church) was held after Mass on the opening Sunday. Whilst on Red Wednesday, where

churches, buildings and monuments are lit up red (another ACN initiative), a candle was burnt, in remembrance, before the altar at morning Mass. A parishioner organised an autumnal walk that day, taking in Temple Bruer, home to the Knights Templar Preceptory Tower (the Knights Templar were a Catholic military order founded, in the twelfth century, to protect Christians travelling on pilgrimage to the Holy Land). Temple Bruer was a valuable reminder, having focused on the persecution of Christians throughout the year, of the Crusades and of the need to remember violence committed against members of other religions. Finally, the Fundraising Circle of Friends, a parishioner group who organise events in the parish, made a donation to ACN, as one of the charities they supported, from the money raised throughout the year.

Christian persecution (and loss of religious freedom in general) is on the increase worldwide and there are signs of its resurgence in Europe, with France most affected to date. Where persecution is experienced, renewal usually accompanies it. Whether related or not, a spiritual renewal appears to be taking place in France, as well as the rest of Europe, especially among young people and has even been reported on in the mainstream media. Hopefully the testimonies of those suffering for the faith can inspire a renewal for each of us in our own faith, so that our lives can be a spotlight of their own, revealing God for others, proclaiming with our suffering brother and sisters in Christ ‘et lux in tenebris lucet’ and taking steps to assist those suffering. One such step could be to sign the ACN petition: https://acninternational.org/petition/ May we pray, too, for religious freedoms to be respected across the earth and for peace for all people.

Jo

Page 11

Page 12

The Catholic News. January 2026.

You can use both sets of clues to solve the puzzle: the solutions are the same.

CRYPTIC Down 1 He composed a tune ultimately the navy embraced (4) 2 Key number among Poles eroded benefice's income (7) 3 Some in macho Irish group getting vocal when together (5) 4 Horse old Persian tracks to a town fortified by Rehoboam (8) 5 Means of executing Rugby's capacity to bind individual's attachment to one across? (11) 6 Solomon's greatest hit? Perhaps not... (4,2,5) 10 ...Eucharistic Prayer heard in Athens maybe a rap Noah composed (8)

12 Abbot's story is written up following Rector's recording outside (7) 15 She was unfaithful to OT chap; married an all-round raver (5) 17 All over English meet with French negativity, which produces zilch (4) QUICK Across 5 Either of two books of the NT (11) 7 Archaic term for Christmas from a 12-day heathen festival (4) 8 Muslim philosopher who influenced the medieval Schoolmen... (8) 9 ...and a pillar of Islam? (7) 11 Word appearing in the OT meaning the underworld or place for departed souls (5) 13 Daughter of Jacob and Leah (5) 14 Ancient Greek set of religious beliefs associated with Hades (7) 16 A ---- ----: parable appearing in Luke (4,4) 17 Females who have taken their final vows (4) 18 Alternative name for members of the Premonstratensian Order (11) QUICK Down 1 Composer of two oratorios, but more famously Rule Britannia (4) 2 First year's revenue of an ecclesiastical benefice, passed to the Crown in 1535 and abolished in 1926 (7) 3 Part of a church containing the seats of the clergy (5)

Town fortified by Rehoboam for which Micah prophesied disaster (8) 5 Means of Christ's death as recorded by all four evangelists (11) 6 OT anthology of love poems, alternatively called 'Canticles' in some Bibles (4,2,5) 10 Word in the Eastern Church which equates to the Eucharistic Prayer (8) 12 High-ranking ecclesiastic (7) 15 Hosea's unfaithful wife (5) 17 The last of the 'Little Hours' of the Divine Office (4) 4

SOLUTION

Across: 5 Corinthians, 7 Yule, 8 Avicenna, 9 Minaret, 11 Sheol, 13 Dinah, 14 Orphism, 16 Rich fool, 17 Nuns, 18 Norbertines.

Down: 1 Arne, 2 Annates, 3 Choir, 4 Mareshah, 5 Crucifixion, 6 Song of Songs, 10 Anaphora, 12 Prelate, 15 Gomer, 17 None.

CRYPTIC Across 5 Sports two letters from Paul (11) 7 Log all chocolate that's eaten around Christmas? (4) 8 Naive can, strangely to medieval Schoolmen, be an influence (8) 9 Building that appeals for Indian ruler to 'go back in time' in retrospective (7) 11 This kind of hell hole's diabolical (5) 13 Levi's sister's anger initially follows row with husband (5) 14 Golden premier of chap being inducted into a mysterious religion (7) 16 Note a retrogressive toilet's showy façade: a parable that highlights greed (4,4) 17 No union, no strike' letters initially given to women with habits (4) 18 Bernstein, or alternative name for the Premonstratensians (11)