Catholic Pic April 2025

Train to teach in a school near you!

Looking for a teacher training programme close to home? With St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust (SJCMAT), you can gain hands-on classroom experience in one of our outstanding schools across Merseyside, St Helens, Wigan, and Runcorn.

Our Training Locations:

• Liverpool – The Trinity Catholic Academy, St Nicholas Catholic Academy, Notre Dame Catholic Academy, St Francis Xavier’s Catholic Academy

• Bootle – Holy Spirit Catholic Academy

• Speke – St Ambrose Catholic Academy

• Wigan – Holy Family Catholic Academy

• St Helens – St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Academy

• Runcorn – Blessed Carlo Acutis Catholic and Church of England Academy

Wherever you train, you'll be part of a supportive school community with expert mentoring, professional development, and a clear path to employment.

Apply now and start your teaching journey!

Training starts September 2025

Apply today using the QR code or link below: www.sjcmat.co.uk/make-a-difference/teacher-training

From the Archbishop’s Desk

The world situation seems desperate. The wars in Ukraine, the Middle East as well as in parts of Africa are far from being resolved, combatants are being killed daily, and others are dying in the thousands from famine and the other effects of war. I use the word “desperate” because despair is a lack of hope. Pope Francis, in declaring 2025 to be a Holy or Jubilee Year with the theme ‘Pilgrims of Hope’, has hit the nail on the head. Unless our human actions are infused with hope, then they have little chance of succeeding. We know that man-made peace settlements are only a beginning. True peace comes from within and is a gift of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus told the disciples, “In this world you will have sorrow, but take heart I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). This life is not trouble free.

Jesus did not sugarcoat what it means to follow him. Life will be hard. But our hope lies in what Christ has done: by his resurrection he overcame sin and death.

This Holy Year is not only about recovering or strengthening our personal hope based on a deep faith in the resurrection of Jesus and showing itself in the love we share with others, but it must also be action and prayer that restores the gift of hope to those who have lost hope at home and in wartorn places.

Most Reverend Malcolm McMahon OP Archbishop of

Liverpool

Monthly prayer intentions

The Holy Father’s prayer intentions entrusted to his worldwide prayer network for the year 2025:

April

For the use of the new technologies.

Let us pray that the use of the new technologies will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times. www.popesprayer.va

Editor Harriet Anwyl

Editorial

Catholic Pictorial Magazine, St Margaret Clitherow Centre, Liverpool Archdiocesan Office, Croxteth Drive, Liverpool L17 1AA

Tel: 0151 522 1007 Email: CatholicPic@rcaol.org.uk

Advertising Sales team 0151 709 7567 sales@cpmmmedia.com

Contributor

Katie Parry

Pictures Nick Fairhurst www.nickfairhurstphotographer.com

Website: www.catholicpic.co.uk

Twitter: @PicCatholic

Youtube: CPMM Media

Contents:

4 Main Feature Celebrating Liverpool’s Lourdes miracle

7 Sunday Reflections

8 From the Archives Beer and Bingo: the rise of the Parish Club

9 News News from around the archdiocese

Copy deadline May 2025 - Monday 14 April 2025

Subscriptions To take out a subscription please email Kim O’Brien at kim.obrien@cpmmmedia.com or call 0151 709 7567

Distribution Contact Barbara on 07714 814 662

Publisher CPMM Ltd Suite 4 Pacific Chambers, 11-13 Victoria Street, Liverpool L2 5QQ

CPMM Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced copied or transmitted in any form or by any means or stored in any information storage or retrieval system without the publishers written permission. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published, Catholic Pictorial Ltd. can accept no responsibility for the veracity of the claims made by advertisers.

14 What’s On What’s happening in the archdiocese

15 Cathedral Record

16 Catholic Life

17 Profile Frank Cottrell Boyce

18 Pastoral Ponderings

30 Pic Extras Mums the word News from the KSC

31 Animate Youth Ministry

34 Dialogue and Unity

“Most of the time, people –even believers – think that sickness and misfortune are a kind of consequence of sin, when they are not a punishment of God offended by the sin of men. .”

Celebrating Liverpool’s Lourdes miracle

The Metropolitan Cathedral hosted a special Mass of Thanksgiving on 18 February following the declaration of Jack Traynor’s miraculous cure at Lourdes.

by Simon Hart

“We give thanks for this wonderful cure that took place 101 years ago in Lourdes. It is something that has brought faith and joy and constancy to the people of Liverpool and I’m so pleased, proud and humbled to be here with you to celebrate Holy Mass on this occasion.”

Archbishop Malcolm McMahon said these words during his message of welcome to a packed Metropolitan Cathedral on a memorable evening in February, as the “Liverpool Lourdes family” gathered to celebrate the declaration of the miracle of John “Jack” Traynor.

The Mass of Thanksgiving for the Proclamation of the 71st Miracle of Lourdes was a highly significant occasion for the archdiocese that drew people to the cathedral from far and wide – among them a contingent from Lourdes led by Jean-Marc Micas, Bishop of Tarbes and Lourdes, as well as members of the Traynor family.

As the “Lourdes Hymn”, Immaculate Mary, filled the cathedral, the Mass opened with a long procession of clergy – including Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who had returned to his home city to be present along with Bishop Tom Neylon

and Bishop Emeritus Tom Williams, the Bishop Emeritus of Hallam John Rawsthorne, Bishop Donal Roche from Dublin, and Bishop Paul Swarbrick from Lancaster.

Bishop Jean-Marc Micas, Bishop of Tarbes and Lourdes

This is the first recognised miracle involving a person from England and, therefore, directors of other English pilgrimages were also among the congregation, while the civic dignitaries attending included Lord Lieutenant Mark Blundell, Lord Mayor Richard Kemp, and Merseyside High Sheriff Professor John Mohin.

It was on 8 December last year that Traynor’s case was officially declared a miracle. The healing occurred during the archdiocese’s first official pilgrimage to Lourdes in 1923. There, he was cured of epilepsy, paralysis of the right arm and paraplegia – the legacy of injuries suffered during the First World War.

During his opening address, Archbishop Malcolm gave thanks to two people in

particular for their efforts to blow the dust off Traynor’s case and ensure it received proper consideration. First, he mentioned Alessandro de Franciscis, Director of the medical bureau at Lourdes, who “has been working so hard to help us bring to a conclusion this long, long quest for recognition of the cure of Jack Traynor.”

He then cited the “great debt” owed to Dr Kieran Moriarty “who did the research necessary to enable the cure of Jack Traynor to be declared a miracle. He was like a dog with a bone, he wouldn’t let go until he found the right documents!”

What followed was a Mass with an inevitably strong Lourdes feeling. Together with the Metropolitan Cathedral choir, the Lourdes Music Group contributed to the music while Dr Jim Connolly, the senior medical officer of the Liverpool pilgrimage, and Cath McCarthy, president of the Liverpool Hospitalite, said the readings. As a lovely detail, members of Traynor’s family – a grandson and a great-grandson – took part in the offertory, along with Dr de Franciscis and other members of the Lourdes medical bureau.

“Opening eyes to God’s work”

In his Homily, the Bishop of Tarbes and Lourdes Jean-Marc Micas cited the Gospel in which Jesus had told the sick man to “stand up, take your mat and walk”. He said: “Most of the time, people –even believers – think that sickness and misfortune are a kind of consequence of sin, when they are not a punishment of God offended by the sin of men. The

whole of the Old Testament is filled with this universal conviction, and in the New Testament, people are inhabited by this same universal theology when they ask Jesus, “Is this man born blind because of his sin or that of his parents?”. “Neither his own nor that of his parents,” Jesus answers, “but so that the work of God may be manifested in him.” The eyes of the blind are opened, so that the eyes of men may be opened to the work of God.”

Next, Bishop Micas focused on the case of Traynor and how, during that 1923 pilgrimage, he had responded to the blessing of the Archbishop of Reims during the Blessed Sacrament Procession. (Traynor’s later recollection was that his immobile right arm “suddenly shot out” and he blessed himself.)

The Bishop said: “Like the sick person of the Gospel, he [Traynor] too had heard

Liverpool Pilgrimage Director Fr Grant Maddock was made made a chaplain of honour to the shrine

A collage of photos of Jack Traynor was displayed next to the altar

about this pool, this spring, and wished to be immersed in it. As he did during the first pilgrimage of your Diocese to Lourdes in 1923. As in the Gospel, it was when Christ passed by that he was healed. Christ, in the real presence of his Eucharist, visited John Traynor, visited the other sick who were with him, visited the hospitaliers and the other pilgrims who were with him. Christ, in the real presence of his Eucharist, blessed Mr Traynor and he felt that he was healed, he felt that his body was restored, but also his heart and soul.” Finally, and importantly, the Bishop added that with this miracle came an obligation. “With you, dear brothers and sisters, the whole Church rejoices in what God has done for John Traynor. This miracle is now a responsibility for you: to show the men and women of your country that God loves them, that God wants to - and can - cure them of all diseases, true illnesses, those which kill the heart and the soul. John Traynor’s healing is good news for our time: God saves. It is a mission for you to proclaim that God loves everyone, and saves everyone.”

Another of the contingent from France, Father Baptiste Pochulu – director of liturgy at Lourdes – took advantage of the celebration to make a special presentation to the Liverpool pilgrimage director Fr Grant Maddock, whom he made a

chaplain of honour to the shrine. This is an honour previously bestowed on Fr Grant’s predecessors, Monsignor John Butchard and Mgr Des Seddon.

Cardinal’s reflections

The Mass concluded with a closing reflection from Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who said that Traynor’s story called to mind the coalman he had known in his boyhood. “For me, he was a mighty man,” he said, “and Jack Traynor, when he was cured, became a coal merchant.”

The Cardinal added: “I will take two things home from here this evening. I think it will renew within me the deep love and devotion which we have for Mary and the confidence with which we can take our troubles to her. The way in which we

instinctively pray - pray the rosary if we can’t sleep, turn to her in very difficult moments, and bring our sick to her. This evening, we might pray especially for Pope Francis as he carries himself the burden of illness and hospitalisation.

“The second thing I will take home comes from the very lovely homily that we heard – for every gift we receive from God there is a task, a mission.” And in this case, Traynor’s miracle should act as a call “to bring from us to everyone the shining message of God’s compassion and love for all. With Jack Traynor, we rejoice as a shining example of that mercy and compassion, but each of us is a recipient of God’s grace, and each of us is sent on our mission to bring that love and mercy of God to our needy world today.”

Bishop Jean-Marc Micas, Bishop of Tarbes and Lourdes, with Jack Traynor’s Family and Canon Aidan Prescott

Cardinal Vincent Nichols gave closing reflections after Mass

Cardinal Vincent Nichols speaks in the Crypt after Mass

On a liturgical note

With the hour springing forward at the end of March, the days of April seem to be longer and brighter and therefore more hopeful. Despite the terrible darkness of the present situation with wars and conflicts in various parts of the world, the Liturgy will still pray as it does each year: “May the light of Christ rising in glory dispel the darkness of our hearts and minds.”

That prayer needs to be firstly for our own lives, and then to let that ‘enlightenment’ colour and affect the way in which we live our daily lives. We are called to be ‘bearers of light’ into the events of every day – in bereavement and illness, sadness and pain, as well as the joyous moments of birth and new life, transitions and successes.

The theme of this Jubilee Year is that of Hope – “Peregrinantes in Spem” is the Latin text which is translated either as Pilgrims of Hope, or Pilgrims into Hope. The way in which we live our lives each day is to be guided and inspired by the hope and vision and perspective which we have on the

Sunday thoughts

Street protests in the world’s cities are an everyday occurrence. As I write, there are such protests in Tbilisi, capital of Georgia. Thousands are challenging the repressive policies of a corrupt government closely allied with Russia. Social media mobilises vast numbers of people in pursuit of a common cause on every continent. At the same time, authoritarian governments and populist movements use the same social media to promote false claims that feed prejudice – the scapegoating of minorities and calls for the deportation of immigrants.

In the weeks leading up to Holy Week, the readings at Mass relate mounting hostility to Jesus. His attacks on the powerful become bolder and more explicit: “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat, so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works they do. For they preach, but do not practise. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to move them with their finger. They do all their deeds to be seen by others. For they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long, and they love the place of honour at feasts

Canon Philip Gillespie

world in which we live. It will guide our vision as to how we welcome the gift of life, how we nurture and protect the gift of life, and how we care for the gift of life in its frailty and neediness. Each and every day we have choices and decisions to make – as simple as how to greet other people, how to engage with them, how to make something ‘real and active’. This is our love and care and charity each day. How are we to make choices, what should inspire them and inform and guide them?

The Catechism of the Catholic Church quotes Saint Paul in his letter to the Church in Philippi: ‘Whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely. Whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.’

(Philippians 4:8)

But of course, we mustn’t just think about them, but actually do them too!

Freed to know

I once went on retreat to Hyning Hall. I just wanted to be silent and experience God’s love. At dinner I went to the community dining some food and began to look around were about 12 sisters in the room. Nobody spoke, as was their custom, but they smiled and acknowledged one another.

Then the music began to play. In the film ‘The Shawshank Redemption’, you’ll remember when one prisoner breaks into the office and puts on a record to play over the Tannoy system. The music fills the air. It’s the most amazing moment in the film: the prisoners stop working and look around them as beauty breaks into their drab prison lives.

I have always seen it as an experience of the reality of God whereby beauty transforms and heals pain and ugliness. As the music began to play in the nuns’ dining room, I was taken beyond myself into something much deeper and more wonderful than anything I had experienced before. It was about finding what is really real.

Mgr John Devine OBE

and the best seats in the synagogues and greetings in the market places and being called rabbi by others.”

There is a mounting sense of menace, and we begin to fear for his safety. Yet, at a moment of his own choosing, he makes a public return to Jerusalem.

On Palm Sunday, the crowds turn out to hail Jesus as their hero. On Good Friday, the same crowds bay for his blood. And all of this in a world without social media. Would things have been different if Jesus, his friends and his enemies, had had smart phones? Maybe the crowds would have been even bigger and the backlash greater. Today, we still allow ourselves to be swept into a frenzy of enthusiasm – Taylor Swift, remember her? We are equally prone to be manipulated into calling for the elimination of “the enemy within”. Jesus continues to be crucified again and again.

The day of Pentecost saw the Gospel spread to the frontiers of the known world. It happened by word of mouth. In the rush to blame or credit social media, human nature remains the same.

It seems to me that much of our Lenten journey is about facing the false gods in our lives, whatever they may be, and allowing them to die. Sadly, I’m becoming more aware that we human beings would rather believe in illusion than reality. The human heart would rather hear what brings comfort than truths that bring transformation and new life. I guess it’s because the road to transformation is hard and involves letting go. Lent is a time to focus on the call that we’re given to enter into the Paschal mystery. It’s about our journey from death to life. It’s about being transformed, and so Lent is a penitential time, but it’s also a life-giving time, because it can lead to change and transformation.

It’s interesting that we begin every Lenten journey by marking ourselves with ashes. Sadly, they’ve become for many a sort of magic talisman. We wear them as a sign that we want to begin again and enter into the mystery of transformation. Richard Rohr says: “Remember, finally, that the ashes on your forehead are created from the burnt palms of last Palm Sunday. New beginnings invariably come from old, false things that are allowed to die.”

Father Thomas Keating is known as one of the architects of “Centering Prayer”, a method of contemplative prayer. This is what he says about Lent: “Lent is a time to renew wherever we are in that process that I call the divine therapy. It’s a time to look at what our instinctual needs are, look at what the dynamics of our unconscious are.”

In other words, Lent is an invitation to look deeply into ourselves, be brutally honest about ourselves and allow God the space and time to transform us deeply within. It’s about what God does within us, not what we do for God, and the question is, can we have the courage to open ourselves to God and what God wants to do in us? While it might sound trite, I think God’s desire is that we know we’re loved, and the Lenten journey is the freeing and moving into grace that this demands. Therefore, take time each day to pray and think and let go. It might be the best thing you’ve ever done.

Father Chris Thomas

Beer and Bingo: the rise of the Parish Club

by Neil Sayer, Archdiocesan Archivist

The school used to be the heart of the Catholic parish. For much of the 19th and early 20th centuries, building schools led to the formation of our parishes. Education was of huge importance. However, after the Second World War, society had changed. Schools were already established, and education was to a great degree funded by the government. What was needed in our parishes now was a club.

There had been clubs before, of course. The Catholic Young Men’s Society of a parish might have established a room where they could go to play billiards. A parish hall might offer an opportunity for a drama production or a tea dance. Leisure time was becoming more important in the 1960s, and by 1965, the Pic was reporting that “the social side of parish life is gaining ground with the rising popularity of the family club. In the development plans for new parishes, the club has replaced the unlicensed parish hall as the fourth MUST after the church, presbytery and school. That is why in such a new parish as St Joseph the Worker, Kirkby, there is such a thriving club accommodating hundreds of members for dances, concerts or bingo in luxurious surroundings.” Although the tradition of men’s clubs was in some cases maintained, “more and more the trend is to make the parish club cater for the whole family.” Some clubs compromised by setting aside a special bar and games room for members of the CYMS or Men’s Guild, while the general club facilities could be used by all the adults in the parish. “Even the all-male clubs are likely to have a regular ladies night.” You can’t stop progress.

Meeting places were seen as crucial for communities to develop: “A ‘live parish’ has to play together as well as pray together. And this usually means popping into the club.” Perhaps this was especially true for some new parishes, whose clubs gave a comforting sense of cohesion. Postwar housing schemes displaced people wholesale from the centre of Liverpool into new towns and estates in Speke, Kirkby and Skelmersdale. Disruption was inevitable. “The novelty of a new house or flat soon wears off – and a hankering for the old community, often a sense of loss, replaces it”, according to the Pic. So the opening of a new club at St Mark’s in Halewood in 1967 was seen as “the first icethawing operation – the baptism of a new community.” It had an “entertainment hall” that could hold 400, a committee room, and a changing room for visiting entertainers. The club’s new punters were impressed with the new facility: “They’ll not be stuck for custom here”, said one burly docker as he surveyed the lounge and halls admiringly. Said one mother, having her first night out for months: ‘I suppose we’ll have to queue to get in before long’.”

By the time a new club opened at St Anthony of Padua in Mossley Hill, 50 years ago this month, clubs selling alcohol were big earners for a parish. It had cost £30,000 to build the club. Father Ignatius, the Parish Priest, did stress that “it is not primarily a parish club but a parish centre. The fact that it is licensed is incidental.”

Nevertheless, with facilities including a bar, kitchen and a large hall with a stage, it was competing with the other local working men’s, social and political clubs. Father Ignatius outlined some of their plans: “At weekends we will obviously have dances and cabarets, but during the week we have planned cultural activities. We hope to start ballet and keep-fit classes, plus chess, modern dance and guitar. We will have discos for the younger parishioners once a week and a weekly folk night. Tuesdays will be reserved for bingo.” Established parishes may have had to re-use other buildings. St Sylvester’s, in Liverpool, created a “tip-top club for the parish” when they converted a disused cinema off Scotland Road in the mid-1960s. St Marie’s in Southport adapted their old school in 1974, being “one of the few parishes that has no need of a school. Most of the people in the holiday town are retired.” Holy Rosary in Aintree was founded with a temporary church building in 1954. After a couple of years a new church was built, so the old one was repurposed as a social centre, youth club, school, and bingo hall until, in 1972, it was refurbished to become “the most modern social centre in the archdiocese”, with that essential for the times “sophisticated electronic burglar alarm.” The club was administered by a committee of parishioners, with the Parish Priest as Chairman. And that may illustrate one problem: the tail was beginning to wag the dog. By 1976, an anonymous priest of the diocese was quoted in the pages of The Tablet on “Liverpool’s challenge”, facing the incoming Archbishop Worlock that year: “In those parts of the archdiocese where Mass attendance is low, priests are forced to finance their schools through beer and bingo, fruit machines and club entertainers. It can be very big business indeed…”

The new Tudor-style parish club at St Patrick’s, Earlestown, opened 1971

Bar staff at Our Lady Immaculate parish club, Bryn, c.1970

The main hall in the new club at St Mary’s, Birchley, 1974

The new club at St Marie’s, Southport, 1974

diary

If you’ve got any news from your parish that you’d like featured e-mail us with the details at: CatholicPic@rcaol.org.uk

Walking with Jesus: A Journey of Faith, Grace, and Redemption

Jesus Youth Liverpool invites everyone to take part in The Way of the Cross, a solemn procession reflecting on Christ’s Passion and sacrifice. This spiritual journey will take place on Saturday, 12 April, at 1 PM, beginning at Blessed Sacrament Shrine RC Church (L1 1LE) and concluding at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, where Archbishop Malcolm McMahon OP will offer a special blessing.

More than just a physical walk, The Way of the Cross is an invitation to journey with Christ, carrying our burdens alongside His. It is a moment to reflect on His suffering, recognise His love, and find strength in our own struggles. The Stations of the Cross remind us that through His wounds, we are healed (Isaiah 53:5).

For centuries, Christians have retraced these sacred steps, drawing closer to God. As Pope John Paul II declared, “Your Cross is the banner of our victory!” This walk through Liverpool’s streets symbolises our faith in redemption and renewal.

Each station invites us to pause and reflect—not only on Christ’s journey but on our own moments of suffering and grace. As Psalm 30:5 assures us, “Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.” The cross is not the end, but the beginning of new life in Christ.

Beyond personal reflection, this event is a testament to Christian unity. Walking together in prayer, we remember that faith is not meant to be lived in isolation. Just as Veronica stepped forward to comfort Jesus, we too are called to acts of love and compassion.

This Jubilee Year calls us to renewal, and The Way of the Cross is an opportunity to restore our faith, reconcile with God, and embrace His mercy. As we walk in prayer, may we find strength in Christ’s sacrifice and hope in His resurrection.

Holy Cross Parish Extends Humanitarian Aid to Ukraine

Parishioners from Holy Cross, St Helens recently gathered to review their humanitarian mission delivering essential winter supplies to the victims of the war in Ukraine.

The appeal was launched after parishioners, reading in the Catholic Pictorial article about a similar activity last year, embarked on a collaboration with the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church community at St Sebastian’s in Kensington, Liverpool. A donation bin was set up in the Church foyer, with a poster encouraging the congregation to drop off any warm clothes, blankets, nappies, and other supplies.

Parishioner Anthony Holland remarked, “I left the bin there after Mass one Sunday, thinking it might be half full the following week. But when I got there the following Sunday, the bin was completely submerged with bags and bags of donations.”

In addition to the many high-quality items donated, special thanks go to Yvonne Allen at the Hope Pantry and the Hygiene Bank in St Helens, who provided vital sanitary products and baby food. Our thanks also to Fr Kevan O’Brien and Fr Jino Arikkatt for their enthusiastic support.

A key role was also played by Fr Taras Khomych from the Ukrainian Church in Kensington, who connected the team to the Catholic charity Caritas in Lviv, Ukraine. Fr Andreii Seneiko and Operations Manager Vasyl Zelenko managed logistics at their end, ensuring a smooth entry at the border.

Caritas in Ukraine operates nationwide providing a variety of services to those in need, including home help, food banks, and mobility and psychological support. This work has expanded dramatically due to the number of people forced to live in displaced persons camps and now includes makeshift schools

and sports facilities. Their intervention also helped to make sure that every blanket and nappy was accounted for and will not end up on the black market.

Beyond its humanitarian impact, the trip strengthened ties between Catholic communities in the UK and Ukraine. The parish continues to pray for peace and hopes to contribute to rebuilding Ukraine in Christian unity.

The 2025 campaign is already underway, with another trip planned for the summer. While Holy Cross in St Helens will be the main hub, anyone wishing to donate, especially wheelchairs and mobility aids, can contact us at:

Email: praypalsuk@gmail.com

Whatsapp: 07379026055

Website: sites.google.com/view/praypals

Caritas Lviv: caritas-lviv.org

Heritage Exhibition at St Wilfrid’s Widnes officially Blessed and opened

The Heritage Exhibition in St Wilfrid’s parish, Widnes, has been officially blessed and opened by Parish Priest Fr Mark Moran.

“The exhibition took over two years to bring together, but the beauty of what’s on display has been worth the effort,” says Fr Mark. “The exhibition centres on the Catholic community in Widnes. It is a record of the history of our faith.”

The exhibition features a large collection of Victorian religious art, along with chasubles from the 16th century, ornate Victorian copes and humeral veils, and altar stones from former churches in the town.

“We have received some amazing donations to the exhibition,” said Fr Mark. “Bishop Tom Williams donated his Pectoral Cross given to him by Pope John Paul II. Bishop Tom Neylon donated his Mitre from his ordination, and Bishop John Rawsthorne his Crozier and cassock.”

Parish life is also reflected through exhibits from the UCM, the Legion of Mary and The Guild of St Stephen. The wider commitment of parishioners includes exhibits of war medals; rugby medals; and long service awards for the Chemical Industry, which brought some many immigrants from Ireland, Poland, and Lithuania.

Among the exhibition’s highlights are 19th-century letters from Bishop Thomas Whiteside, which give a fascinating insight into life at that time. “They cover all topics from the Boer War to the

Irish Famine; from concerns about the drop in church attendance (yes, even then!) to the death of Pope Leo XII and the election of Pius X,” said Fr Mark. Fr Mark found one particular letter amusing - “it was advice from the Bishop to all clergy who used bicycles and the Bishop not allowing any leniency in the wearing of clerical garb while doing so.”

There are over 100 exhibits at the exhibition, including a biretta donated by the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendía, which he wore at the coronation of King Charles III. This remarkable exhibition celebrating Catholic heritage is open for the next six months at St Michael’s Church, Widnes.

Cathedral Architects Acknowledged With Commemorative Plaque

On 5 February, a special plaque was unveiled to honour Frederick Luytens and Edwin Gibberd, the two architects of the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King.

Lutyens was responsible for designing the Cathedral Crypt, while Gibberd designed the main Cathedral, which was completed and opened in 1967.

The occasion was celebrated with sung Mass in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, with Archbishop Malcolm McMahon as the main celebrant, with Cathedral Dean Monsignor Anthony O’Brien among those concelebrating.

The Mass was very well attended; the seating area in the chapel was full, and some had even gathered on the outer seats in the main chapel.

Also in attendance were the Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside, Mark Blundell, and Cllr Richard Kemp, Lord of Mayor of Liverpool, as well as representatives from the Luytens Trust and the Gibberd Architectural Practice.

During the homily, Archbishop Malcolm spoke of the importance of having a place to proclaim the good news.

“What we’re commemorating this evening is the work of two men who, through their inspiration and their skills and their training, have left us here in Liverpool with a very great legacy.

“A wonderful cathedral and a wonderful crypt, which could have been the cathedral, and is probably bigger than many cathedrals, certainly in the Catholic Church in England and Wales.”

Following the Mass, attendees gathered at the Cathedral’s main entrance, where the plaque is now displayed. Monsignor O’Brien, Cathedral Archivist Neil Sayer, and plaque designer Nick Robinson each spoke, before the plaque was unveiled and blessed with holy water by Archbishop Malcolm. Guests then had the opportunity to take photos and reflect on the enduring legacy of the Cathedral’s architects.

John Cobham Honoured with Benemerenti Medal

On Saturday 1 March, at the 5pm Mass at Ss Peter & Paul, Mawdesley, John Cobham was awarded the Benemerenti Medal by Archbishop Malcolm McMahon OP in recognition of his lifelong service to the Church.

John’s connection to Ss Peter & Paul began at a young age, helping his father tend to the church grounds—a role his father carried out for nearly 50 years. From the age of 7 to 21, he was an altar server, and later took on numerous responsibilities, from church maintenance to overseeing large-scale projects. He remains an active member of the Parish Finance & Administration Committee, which he has served on since its formation in 1981.

His dedication extends beyond the church, having served as a Governor of Ss Peter & Paul’s Catholic Primary School since 1984, including over 20 years as Chair of Governors. He continues to be closely involved in building and maintenance projects at the school. In addition, he has been a Foundation Governor at St Mary’s Catholic High School, Leyland, since 2013, where he represented the school during its rebuild following a devastating fire.

Reflecting on his service, John commented: “My ‘commitment’ to the Church—I call it a sense of duty to God and the Parish— stems from the dedication and loyalty my parents had for Ss Peter & Paul’s. My father, especially, worked tirelessly alongside the priests, never seeking favour or reward.”

The parish community gathered to celebrate John’s welldeserved honour, recognising his unwavering dedication and lifelong commitment to faith, service, and stewardship.

NOVENA to ST JUDE

Holy St Jude, Apostle and Martyr great in virtue and rich in miracles, near Kinsmen of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke you, special patron in time of need, to you I have recourse from the depths of my heart and humbly beg to you whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me now in my urgent and present need and grant my earnest petition. In return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. For nine consecutive days say three Our Fathers, three Hail Marys and three Glorias. Publication must be promised. St Jude pray for us and all that invoke your aid.

Amen

This novena has never been known to fail. PMB

FEAST OF DIVINE MERCY

Sunday 27th April 2025

Our Lord asked Saint Faustina to promote the Devotion to His mercy- saying

“The soul that will go to Confession (within the octave of the feast) and receive Holy Communion on the Feast day, shall obtain complete forgiveness of sins and punishment”

St Faustina confirms Our Lord’s command to her ‘If I cannot show mercy, by deeds or words, I can always do so, by prayer. My prayer reaches out even there, where I cannot reach out physically.’

Archdiocese venues celebrating the Feast of Divine Mercy - start time

For people using sat-navs the postcode relates to the priest’s house

Holy Family, Cronton, WA8 5DP

1.30pm Exposition, Rosary, Confession, Devotions, Mass 4 pm

(Peter who previously ran the Divine Mercy shop in London Rd)

St John’s Fountains Rd, Kirkdale, Liverpool, L4 1QL

2.15pm Rosary Confession Exposition Devotions

Benediction 4pm Mass

St Clares, Arundel Avenue, Liverpool, L17 2AU

3.00pm Devotions, Exposition, Confessions

St Aloysius, Twig Lane, Roby, Liverpool, L36 2LF

2.00pm Devotions, Confessions 5.00pm Mass

St Francis of Assisi, Earp St Garston Liverpool, L19 1RT

4.00pm Holy Hour and Divine Mercy Devotions

Sacred Heart, Brooks St, Chorley, PR6 0NG

3.00pm Chaplet, Talk, Confessions followed by Mass

St Mary's, Standishgate, Wigan, WN1 1XL

3.00pm Devotions, Confessions

4.30pm Mass at St John’s Church

Our Lady Star of the Sea, Ramsey, Isle of Man, 1M8 1BH

2.00pm Confessions, Devotions

For people who either cannot go to a Divine Mercy service or would like to know more about the devotion, watch the American EWTN Catholic TV Channel programs on Divine Mercy Sunday On computer

For program listing www ewtn com/ tv/ schedule/ europe

For Live streaming www ewtn com/ tv/ extra-watchlive/ europe

For TV watching Sky TV ( subscription) and Sky Freesat ( non-subscription) With an Amazon Fire TV device With a RoKu device Google Chromecast or Apple TV device

Ash Wednesday Pax Christi Peace Vigil

Ash Wednesday this year was marked by several vigils and prayers for peace in our troubled world. This year, events were held in Liverpool, Leeds and London. With the ongoing violence in Gaza and the West Bank, as well as Ukraine and Russia and the conflicts in Africa, there is much to be concerned about, and the fact that nuclear weapons and their threatened use are part of the equation makes the situation even more concerning.

Pax Christi’s walk in Liverpool was attended by around 20-30 people, including some new faces. Although small in number, we were clearly visible thanks to our placards, music and bell ringing on a fairly busy day in the city centre.

Our vigil focused on nuclear weapons and was an act of repentance for the UK possession of Trident. Also we reflected on the effects of conventional arms sales with our country as the seventh largest exporter of weapons.

A new publication by the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales, Called To Be Peacemakers, echoes the consistent message of the Pope, and some extracts were used during our prayers. Ashes were distributed and an image of a Trident nuclear submarine was also marked. It is worth noting that one single Trident warhead has 8 times the explosive power of the atom bomb used on Hiroshima in 1945.

Concluding our walk at Liverpool Town Hall, the group heard testimony from Hiroshima survivor Setsuko Thurlow, who was just 13 in 1945 when the bombing took place. This powerful message reminds all nuclear powers of their responsibility to enter into serious discussions for disarmament.

Janette Harper of Pax Christi Liverpool commented: “We hope and pray that our small witness connected with others around the world conveys the urgency of steps towards disarmament. And we urge our Liverpool city to follow other cities around the world to adopt the ban and to join other cities for peace.”

Wigan Family of Parishes celebrates Shrove Tuesday together

On Shrove Tuesday, the Wigan Family of Parishes met at St Aidan’s Church, Winstanley to mark the end of Ordinary Time before the Season of Lent began on Ash Wednesday.

The Family of Parishes, which is made up of four parishes (seven churches), organised a joint celebration of Holy Mass, followed by a gathering in the parish centre where many pancakes were devoured!

Every one of the church communities and all the clergy came together for this joyful event. The Mass was enhanced by a music group created especially for the occasion, from every parish in the family.

At the start of Mass, a representative from each church processed ahead of the priests and carried forward a candle to represent their community.

In his homily, Fr John Causey, parish priest of both St Aidan’s and St Jude’s, expressed the joy of our communities coming together to worship and the importance of the Eucharist in our lives. It was fitting, then, that our first joint initiative as a Family, was a Shrove Tuesday Mass.

There was a great sense of togetherness – a number of people commenting on how it was lovely to rekindle old friendships and meet new like-minded people. One lady commented, “It feels like meeting up with cousins and extended family!” The pancakes and numerous toppings went down very well, and the bar was open too. It was the first ‘Mardi Gras’ in Wigan, hopefully the first of many. The Family continue their Lenten journey together, as Pilgrims of Hope, with a weekly service based around ‘We Dare to Hope’ produced by the Bishop’s Conference.

Brian Boru Club Celebrates 39th St Patrick’s Day Parade

The Brian Boru Club in Ashton-in-Makerfield marked its 39th annual St Patrick’s Day Mass and Parade on Sunday 16 March, with a vibrant celebration of Irish heritage.

Canon McNally, who recently celebrated his diamond jubilee, led the Mass, which included prayers in Irish. The event was attended by the Mayoress of St Helens, MPs Josh Simons and David Baines, and Fionnuala Egan from the Irish Embassy in London.

Following the Mass, the parade brought the town to life with Irish Wolfhounds, the Liverpool Pipe Band, and two historic 120-year-old banners from St Patrick’s Church, Wigan. A lively procession included St Patrick himself, a giant Brian Boru on stilts, an inflatable leprechaun, and even a tractor!

As the oldest Irish club in the UK, established in 1889, the Brian Boru Club remains committed to preserving and celebrating Irish culture. The St Patrick’s Day festivities continue to unite the community in faith, music, and tradition.

Year 5 and Year 6 pupils at Our Lady of Walsingham have been chosen to participate in the Metro Mayor’s pilot of the AI-personalised learning platform, CENTURY

Our Lady of Walsingham is dedicated to developing innovative ways of supporting pupils Through this project, classes arrive early, receive a nutritious breakfast and the CENTURY app helps them to build positive learning habits and

“Instead of being set work for everyone, CENTURY personalises my education. I think it's fun and I like coming in of a morning to do it.”

Olly, Year 5

what’s on April

Wednesday 2 April

Johann Sebastian Bach: Wer da glaubet 6:30PM at St Francis Xavier, Liverpool, Salisbury Street, Everton, L3 8DR

Join the Liverpool Bach Collective as they present Evening Prayer and Cantata at SFX Church. They will perform Cantata 37, He who believes. All are welcome to attend.

Saturday 5 April

Come and See: April 25

10:30AM - 4:00PM at The Irenaeus Project, Liverpool, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, L22 1RD

The latest Come and See Day at The Irenaeus Project. They will be welcoming newly elected Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe, who will be giving a talk on The Wonder of Being Human. All are welcome to attend. You are asked to bring a packed lunch, and a suggested donation is £10. For more information, contact jenny@ irenaeus.co.uk or call 0151 949 1199.

Tuesday 8 April

Time Out on Tuesdays

10:00AM - 4:00PM at Sisters of Our Lady of the Cenacle, Liverpool, Tithebarn Grove, Lance Lane, Wavertree, L15 6TW

In the midst of their busy lives, Jesus invited the disciples to “Come apart and rest for a while.” Why not take time to respond to this invitation and join The Sisters of Our Lady of the Cenacle for a time of prayer and quiet? No need to book—just come along and maybe bring a friend.

For further information, contact Sr Winnie Morley on 0151 722 2271.

Saturday 12 April

The Response of the Faithful to the Archbishop’s Pastoral Letter and Video on Racial Justice

9:30AM - 12:30PM at St Margaret Clitheroe Centre, Croxteth Drive, L17 1AA

A half-day conference to explore and deepen our response to the Archbishop’s recent Racial Justice pastoral letter and video. This event will provide an opportunity to reflect on the implications of the message and discuss ways to promote racial justice within our archdiocese. All are welcome.

For bookings and enquiries, contact the Catholic Association for Racial Justice at bschmack@aol.com or call 07742 578 079.

Saturday 12 April

Way of the Cross Procession

1:00PM at Blessed Sacrament Shrine, Liverpool, 4 Dawson Street, L1 1LE

Jesus Youth Liverpool will be hosting a Way of the Cross procession through Liverpool City Centre. It will begin at Blessed Sacrament Shrine and conclude at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King with a blessing from Archbishop Malcolm McMahon.

All are welcome. For more information, contact Teena on 07471 189236 or Justin on 07823 397458.

Wednesday 16 April

Through the Eyes of Those First Followers of Jesus: Easter Retreat

The Irenaeus Project, Liverpool, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, L22 1RD

Led by Fr Chris Thomas and the Irenaeus team, this retreat will follow the Easter Triduum services, beginning with a Passover meal on Wednesday. Limited residential places are available. To book and for more information, contact jenny@irenaeus.co.uk or call 0151 949 1199.

Saturday 26 April

Catholic Spirituality Network Conference

10:30AM - 4:00PM at The Irenaeus Project, Liverpool, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, L22 1RD

Led by Rev Lister Tonge at the Irenaeus Centre.

• Conference Fees: £30 / CSN members £25

• Early Bird Discount: £5 off until 14 March 2025

To book, contact Margaret Palladino at catholicspiritualitynetwork@gmail.com.

New music initiatives for children this spring

by Dr Christopher McElroy Director of Music, Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral

One of the special features of Holy Week here at the Metropolitan Cathedral is the singing of the passion narrative on Palm Sunday and Good Friday.

People who attend the liturgies on these days often comment on what a powerful experience it is being part of such a performance. The musical settings we use were written by former Mast of the Music, Philip Duffy. Philip’s settings of the passion are but a small element of the large corpus of liturgical music that he composed during his 30 years at the Cathedral, much of which is still in regular use.

The evening of Palm Sunday sees the culmination of our Lenten series of musical offerings with the singing of the office of Tenebrae at 7:30pm. The responsories will be sung to a musical setting by Tomás Luis de Victoria, and Psalm 50, Miserere Mei, being sung to the famous setting by Gregorio Allegri.

Mozart, when he was a teenager, so the story goes, once heard Allegri’s Miserere being performed in the Sistine Chapel. The precocious young composer apparently scurried home and wrote down the entire work from memory. Wonderful as the story sounds, it’s almost certainly apocryphal: it would have been highly likely that Mozart would have come across the Miserere before, given its already significant popularity in musical circles. Singing or hearing this piece in the Metropolitan Cathedral is a sublime experience. The soloists sing from up in one of the high galleries, with the sound of a very small group of singers completely filling the cathedral as if from the heavens. Not to be missed!

Easter symbolises new life, and it is in the summer term that our thoughts turn towards recruitment. The life cycle of a boy or girl chorister is usually around six years: the first two spent learning the ropes, the middle two getting a grip on the repertoire, the final two leading everyone else and singing solos. As boys and girls move on (boys usually around 12/13 as their voice changes, girls at 15 to focus on GCSEs) they need to be replaced at the bottom to ensure that the cycle continues!

If you know of a boy or girl currently in year 2 (or a girl in year 5) who might be interested, please encourage them to find out more. Further details can be found on the Cathedral website: www.liverpoolmetrocathedral.org.uk/music/ joining-the-choirs

Cathedral Record

Canon Anthony O’Brien – Cathedral Dean

We journey through the final days of Lent and on to Holy Week and the celebration of Easter throughout the course of the month ahead, and the solemn liturgies celebrated in the Cathedral really emphasize the meaning and great importance of this time for us all.

We begin Holy Week on 13 April gathering outside the Cathedral, weather permitting, for the blessing of Palms at 11am. This is one of the two days in the year when the passion narrative is sung (the other being Good Friday), which heightens the drama and meaning of the narrative. On Palm Sunday evening at 7:30pm, there is a special Holy Week Tenebrae Service.

On Wednesday evening, we gather as an archdiocesan family to take part in the Mass of Chrism at 7:30pm. At this service, the priests renew their commitment and the oils that are used in parishes across the archdiocese for the celebration of the Sacraments are blessed.

The three days of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday all begin with a Choral Office of Readings and Morning Prayer at 10am. They help to define a structure of prayer throughout these days focussing on the suffering, death and resurrection of the Lord. The Evening celebration of the Lord’s Supper is both a thanksgiving for the gift of the Eucharist and a renewal of dedication to follow Christ through lives of service, and this concludes with watching until 10pm. On Good Friday, Bishop Williams will lead a service of Stations of the Cross after the sung office and Archbishop Malcolm will preside in the afternoon at the Commemoration of the Lord’s Passion at 3pm.

Late on Holy Saturday evening at 9pm, our Easter Vigil begins outside the main entrance of the Cathedral with the blessing of the Easter Fire and procession to celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord. During this celebration, many adults who have been through a long period of preparation will be baptised or received joyfully into full communion with the Catholic Church. Our Easter Sunday Mass times are as a normal Sunday, and we have a special Easter Choral Evening Prayer at 3pm for Easter Day.

I wish you all a very happy Easter.

Families of Parishes Pilgrimage

APRIL

Liverpool North, Family 1

Our latest Families of Parishes walk takes us into North Liverpool, exploring the first family in this deanery.

This pilgrimage consists of just three churches, making it perfect for an afternoon walk—especially now that the weather is starting to warm up.

Total Length: 2.7 miles (Approx. 1 hr)

Start: Blessed Sacrament, Walton Vale

Begin your walk at Blessed Sacrament in Walton Vale. Just a short walk from Orrell Park train station, it’s an ideal meeting place for the group.

If you’d like to start with Mass, you have a few options: you can begin on Saturday evening at 4:30pm Mass, which would make a nice lead-in for the pilgrimage walk; or you could begin with 10am Mass on a Sunday morning. Other Mass times include 6pm on a Thursday, 12pm on a Tuesday or 9:15am Monday and Friday.

Walk 32 minutes (1.4 miles)

Stop 1: Holy Name, Fazakerley

After a half-an-hour walk, you will reach Holy Name Church in Fazakerley. The

church itself was built in 1966 and was consecrated 20 years later in 1986. As it is in close proximity to Fazakerley Hospital, you may wish to stop and offer a prayer for those that are in the hospital, whether be the patients or families, doctors and nurses or the cleaners and receptionists that work in there.

Walk 29 minutes (1.3 miles)

Stop 2: St Philomena, Aintree

The final stop on this pilgrimage is to St Philomena’s in Aintree. Just off the East Lancs Road, this makes for a great place to start or finish your walk. The parish of Our Lady’s was merged with St Philomena in 2006 to create the new parish as it stands today. St Philomena itself has been a parish since 1937, with the current church being built in 1953.

This pilgrimage offers a wonderful opportunity for prayer, reflection, and connection with Liverpool’s Catholic history. Enjoy your walk!

Saint of the Month

Blessed John Finch

Born in 1548 in Eccleston, Lancashire, Blessed John Finch was born into a Catholic family but brought up as an Anglican. He reconciled with the Catholic Church after returning to Lancashire, following a brief stint in London. He was martyred alongside Blessed James Bell and shares his feast day on 20 April. The stained-glass image is from St Mary’s Catholic Church in Chorley.

Deanery Diary: DSC Liverpool Central: Parishes for Peace

In 2024, the Deanery Synodal Council for Liverpool Central (North Family) organised an initiative called ‘Parishes for Peace’ to come together and pray for those countries experiencing war between nations and civil war.

Unfortunately, there were so many nations to choose. We placed the flags of these countries on a large cross. Simon (from All Saints, not Cyrene) carried the cross between five of our churches so that Mass could be offered for those countries and its people. The intention was to pray for peace and join together in friendship and community. Everyone from Liverpool Central Deanery was invited, and starting at St. Michael’s, we went to St. John’s, All Saints, SFX, and finally St. Anthony’s. The Masses were held in each church and many people travelled to all the churches - by the end there was quite a following.

Mass was followed by refreshments, which gave everyone a chance to reconnect with old friends and make some new ones. At the end, we came together to review the initiative and noticed that each priest had a unique understanding of the word ‘Peace’. Not just the absence of war, but also the need to have peace in our hearts and homes and to share this example freely. Fr. Chris at SFX spoke about the history of a jelly sweet, popular with children. At the end of the WWI, Bassett renamed them ‘Peace Babies’ for several years in celebration of the War ending. We were all encouraged to go and give ‘peace babies’ to everyone and consider how we spread the Peace of Christ. We look forward to continuing our work as a deanery, which has included Children’s Liturgy training and Reader’s training for our parishes. We look forward to continuing our work together as Pilgrims of Hope.

Pat Daly, Chair of Liverpool Central Deanery Synodal Council

A conversation with Frank Cottrell Boyce, children’s author and screenwriter, leads to many interesting places – among them Blackfriars, the base of the Dominicans in Oxford. Frank is recalling his student days at the start of the 1980s, when he was regular at Blackfriars’ sung evening Mass and heard one particular homily that left a lasting impression.

“This young lad with a big accent got up and preached about saints and what a great inheritance we have in them,” Frank remembers. “It was very knockabout and had loads of puns in it, and it really stuck with me. My first book, Millions, is about a little boy who’s obsessed with saints. It was that sermon which put that image in my head.”

While that student is now the UK’s children’s laureate, the young preacher is our very own Archbishop Malcolm McMahon. “When Malcolm came here, I told him about that and he found a copy of the sermon and sent it to me,” Frank smiles. “It was really funny so hats off to Malcolm – he started off my children’s novels!”

A parishioner at St Joseph’s, Blundellsands, Frank has never shied from discussing his Catholic faith. As for how it influences his writing, though, that is “like asking a fish what it thinks of water as it’s so integral. The process for me is an act of faith. When Danny Boyle asked me to write with him the script for the Olympic Opening Ceremony that was an unmoveable date and we both said, “Yeah, that’ll be fine”. That, in itself, was an act of faith.”

In some ways, he reflects, writing is like any other job in that the key is “turning up” each day. On some days “you have an amazing sense of presence”. More often “you end up going to bed with a crushing sense of failure, but you’re holding out for that moment. That’s a good parallel with your spiritual life. You go to Mass and may be bored but you’ve kept in training for the day when it’ll suddenly open itself up to you, or the day when you’ll desperately need it, or the day you’ve got something massive to say thank you for.”

As a boy, Frank was a parishioner at the now-closed St Alphonsus’ parish, Everton Valley, and then St Bartholomew’s, Rainhill. He sources his love of reading to long afternoons in Kirkdale Library with his mother, Joan – “somewhere quiet” during early boyhood, when he and his brother shared a room with their parents in his grandmother’s two-bedroom flat.

Frank Cottrell Boyce Children’s laureate on faith

and books

By Simon Hart

Today, early-years reading has been the focus of his three-year spell as children’s laureate, which began in 2024. Frank, who led a Reading Rights Summit at St George’s Hall, in January, explains: “Nobody has really been speaking up for early years because reading is always seen in the context of education, and we don’t start education until four or five. People talk about educational attainment or cultural enrichment and those things are very important, but I think happiness is much more important.”

He regards books as more valuable than ever at a time when young children are “bombarded with images” on screens. “There’s a big difference between happiness and distraction,” he argues, and he recounts a visit to the Baby Development Laboratory at the University of East London. “Watching mums read to babies with their heads wired up was miraculous. You watch their thought patterns synchronise.”

His own mother’s influence – with those trips to Kirkdale Library – helped words become his currency. (For the record, it was his grandmother that turned him into a Pic reader: “she used to read it manically!”)

Words have since taken Frank to Hollywood and back, yet Liverpool remains home. The 65-year-old reflects: “There used to be a pub on the corner of London Road called The Legs of Man and I remember my godfather saying, “If you sit there long enough, the whole world will go by”. It’s that thing where if you stay in one place, you might see more than people who go travelling. If you sit still, you see things like people ageing, places changing, the things that are invisible to people always seeking pastures new. It’s a great place – it’s got stories, values, words.” Rather, you might say, like Frank himself.

Pastoral ponderings

by Paul Pimblett

Recently, a group of men discerning a vocation to the priesthood visited Allen Hall to gain an insight into the life of a seminarian. During their visit, one of them asked me a brilliant question that I had not anticipated and had to reflect upon for some time.

“What advice would you give yourself three years ago when you were just about to begin your formation journey?”

I have to admit, I struggled to find an immediate answer. As part of my regular meetings with my Spiritual Director, I often reflect on how I have grown since I began my time in seminary. However, I have rarely thought about how I could give advice to someone just starting out. Eventually I was able to give the man two pieces of advice. On a practical level, my advice was pray the Rosary; indeed this advice applies to us all. The Rosary is one of the most valuable tools we Catholics possess in drawing closer to the Lord through his Blessed Mother. Personally, I have found allocating a set time each day for the Rosary has given me great strength and comfort during an otherwise hectic schedule. By praying the Rosary, I have come to understand the maternal love of Our Lady more deeply as she accompanies me along my journey to priesthood, God willing.

However, the second piece of advice I gave the man was on a more personal level. I said that the one thing I would tell my past self would be to be patient. Being patient with oneself, the Church and with God is crucial. Patience cannot be taught or immediately instilled, it has to be tested and developed as we grow. I am nearly at the end of my third year in formation and there have been many times when I have needed to be patient, when I have slipped and fallen or have become frustrated. Moreover, I am certain I will continue to slip and fall in the future and continue to battle doubts, worries and fears. I will therefore need to keep trusting in the Lord and His immeasurable goodness as I grow in patience. Even if my words did not impress the discerner who had initially questioned me, he had certainly given me cause for reflection as we entered the season of Lent.

Our Lady of Sorrows, Pray for us.

Pilgrimage to Our Lady of Walsingham

Standing with Ukraine for Justice and Peace

On 24 February, Liverpool commemorated the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

At 5:30pm, Ukrainians and local residents gathered on the steps of Saint Luke’s Bombed-Out Church to demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine and raise awareness of the ongoing war. During the rally, speeches were delivered by the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Richard Kemp, and Ms Lyudmyla Sergienko, event co-ordinator for the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain’s (AUGB) Liverpool branch. There were also Ukrainian songs sung.

At 6pm, Liverpool participated in the ‘Global Alarm’ initiative. Air-raid warning sirens were sounded across numerous cities worldwide, providing a poignant reminder of the devastation that Russia has inflicted on Ukraine, as highlighted by the Ukrainian World Congress.

At 6:30pm, an interfaith vigil commenced at Liverpool Parish Church of Our Lady and St Nicholas. The ceremony began with an opening prayer led by Canon Bill Addy and Rev Dr Taras Khomych, a UkrainianCatholic Priest and chairman of the AUGB’s Liverpool branch, who concelebrated with Rev Michelle Montrose and Canon Sean Riley. Fr Taras expressed his gratitude to the event’s co-organisers, especially the Lord-Lieutenant of Merseyside, Mark Blundell, and Canon Addy, and thanked the people of Liverpool for their continued support of Ukraine and Ukrainians.

This was followed by Scripture readings and a powerful speech by the Lord Mayor, who voiced his support for and solidarity with Ukraine. There were performances from the Singing Children, a Ukrainian children’s choir; from the host parish’s St Nicholas Singers; and from the ‘Ukrainian Voice’ choir. Additionally, an Eastern Christian memorial service was held for the victims of the war, followed by a symbolic ‘Commitment to Peace’, during which participants expressed solidarity with the Ukrainian people.

The evening culminated in the premiere of ‘Voices of Hope and Peace’, a video opera directed by Dr John McHugh and featuring the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, the Svitoch Choir (a Ukrainian chamber choir) under the direction of Inna Ruzheva, and the AUGB Liverpool branch. At the very end of the event was a performance of Myroslav Skoryk’s symbolic Melody in A Minor by the organist.

As well as the above-mentioned Lord-Lieutenant and Lord Mayor, other distinguished attendees included Liverpool Hope University Rector and Vice-Chancellor Claire Ozanne and representatives of civil authorities, Christian churches, other religious communities, and various organisations.

This event served as a powerful testament to the resilience of the Ukrainian people, the strength of international solidarity, and the ongoing necessity of supporting Ukraine in its pursuit of freedom and justice.

Jottings of a Lourdes Pilgrim

By Pat Murphy

I do believe in the old saying that as you get older, time speeds up. It certainly has done this year. Here we are halfway through Lent and looking forward to the Easter season. Lourdes certainly wakes up at Easter, with the HCPT pilgrimages descending on the little town, and many other pilgrimages and visitors round around the world. Longer, warmer days - the world is coming alive. Liverpool certainly came alive on Tuesday 18 February when we celebrated in style the recognition of the miracle of a local man Jack Traynor, 102 years ago, on the first Liverpool Lourdes Pilgrimage. It was great to see the coaches rolling in not only from our own archdiocese, but also other dioceses as well. Lots of familiar faces and friends. We had a busy little shop in the reception area of the Cathedral where commemorative badges and rosaries were selling by the dozen, running out of stock, with a promise of a new supply in Lourdes.

In my own simple mind, it’s wonderful that Our Blessed Lady chose an ordinary man, a very sick man from Liverpool with multiple ailments, to cure in the waters of Lourdes. Jack Traynor was near to death. He argued with his parish priest, his doctors and probably his family to join the pilgrimage. Nobody thought he would make the journey alive, let alone just a week later push his own wheelchair down the platform of Lime Street station as the pilgrim train returned. It might have taken 102 years to officially recognise the miracle, but this man had multiple cures and it is beyond doubt the work of our Blessed Lady. It is the only recognised Lourdes miracle from the UK, so Liverpool really is on the Lourdes map. Although it has been for years, with so many visitors from our archdiocese each year visiting the little town. Each pilgrim comes away having experienced a gentle change in themselves. We mightn’t have multiple ailments asking for a cure, but we go with our petitions, our hopes and our prayers. If we come away renewed, refreshed and ready for the next chapter of our lives, surely that is our own little miracle. There is still time to join our pilgrimage this year from Thursday 24 to Thursday 31 July. Get in touch to book your place.

St John Bosco choir wins first place in prestigious choir competition

St John Bosco Art College’s choir recently achieved great success in the Catholic Schools’ Choir of the Year competition, winning first place.

Twelve schools across the region entered the competition, and St John Bosco was selected as one of seven choirs to compete in the final.

The prestigious event, organised by Joe Watson, choral director for the Archdiocese of Liverpool, took place at the Metropolitan Cathedral in the beautiful crypt concert room. It was attended by other students, staff, parents, and members of the local community, who were captivated by the performers.

St John Bosco’s talented choir passionately performed ‘Hosanna’ by Ligertwood and ‘Shine’ by Emeli Sandé, wowing the judges with their powerful voices.

In the final rankings, skilful choirs from St Edward’s College and St Bede’s Catholic High School placed second and third respectively, with every group receiving high praise for their talent and dedication.

The esteemed judging panel included Dr Christopher McElroy, director of music at the Metropolitan Cathedral, and Archdiocese of Liverpool choral directors Samuel J Ferry, Emma Baker and Rebekka Irwin.

Malcolm McMahon OP, the Archbishop of Liverpool, was the guest of honour and presented the prizes to the winners. Additionally, Monsignor Anthony O’Brien, Dean of Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, was present to hear the choirs perform.

On the night, students also had the opportunity to come together with the other finalists to form a mass choir and perform a fantastic and inspiring rendition of ‘Rhythm of Life’, celebrating their achievement in reaching this stage of the competition.

St John Bosco’s victory was a testament to their hard work, reflecting their commitment to working as a team and the importance of having hope and spreading love, something that the school community strives to do in all aspects of life.

This amazing success also follows the choir’s recent appearance at last year’s Educate Awards, in which it was invited to open and set the atmosphere for the night. Guests from schools and colleges across the North West were blown away by the students’ voices.

The talented group continues to go from strength to strength, and the St John Bosco community is extremely proud.

Christine Finnegan, leader of the choir, said: “Winning this competition was an unforgettable experience for the children.

The joy and pride they felt as their names were announced, the excitement of lifting the trophy, and the overwhelming sense of achievement made all their dedication and rehearsals worthwhile.

“Singing together, both in competition and as part of the mass choir, strengthened their confidence, teamwork, and love for music. It was a moment they will cherish forever.”

Pauline Ellison, head of performing arts at St John Bosco Arts College, commented: “I would like to say a huge congratulations to Christine and our school choir on winning the Catholic Schools’ Choir of the Year competition. The standards were outstanding, and our girls were truly exceptional.

“Well done to everyone and a big thank you to SLT and Anne, our chaplain for supporting the event. This truly meant a lot to our girls.”

Joe Watson, who also hosted the night, said: “A huge congratulations to all schools, students and staff who participated in this year’s competition. All schools performed with a confidence and enthusiasm that filled the concert hall with joy. In a time where musical education is not a priority amongst some pillars in our community, events like this show that quite the opposite is true.

“A music education is multi-skilled in developing a well-rounded student who can reach their full potential, and the confidence and enthusiasm the students performed with only shows this.”

St Peter’s Cluster Jubilee Year of Hope Retreat Day

Service teams from St Peter’s cluster schools recently gathered for a very special ‘Jubilee Year of Hope’ themed retreat.

The retreat took place on 11 March 2025 at St Teresa’s Church and Club, where the day began with a welcome in the church from members of the ‘Seeds of Hope’ group from St Bernadette’s and St Marie’s. Seeds of Hope representative MaryB Hill spoke to pupils about how they inspire everyone within St Peter’s to work together to care for their common home.

During the morning, the children dove into a carousel of ‘live simply’ environment-themed activities. MaryB and Gary, also from the Seeds of Hope group, guided them in creating bug hotels, which have since been shared among the cluster parishes.

A stunning piece of environmental art was also created using recycled materials. This artwork will now embark on its own pilgrimage during the Jubilee Year, visiting all of the St Peter’s schools as a symbol of the hope and friendship they share.

The children also collaborated to create wildflower seed bombs, which will burst into bloom across the schools, creating beautiful flower meadows and adding vibrant, natural charm to the surroundings.

Throughout the afternoon, pupils engaged in a wonderful reflection called ‘The Greatest Week’, where they were able to reflect on the events of Holy Week and explore the hope that these events bring. They waved palm leaves of positivity, broke bread together at a reenactment of the Last Supper and had the opportunity to reflect on their lives in the Garden of Gethsemane.

Furthermore, the St Peter’s community had the chance to join CAFOD’s campaign, calling for debt justice during the year, by creating their own handprints as a symbol of support.

A final reflection in church was held by the St Peter’s chaplaincy team at the end of the day, and everyone was invited to complete a Jubilee Pledge and participate in a decade of the Rosary, during which hope for the world was prayed for.

Miss Catherine Phillips, deputy headteacher at St Teresa’s Primary School, commented: “Our annual cluster retreat day was particularly special this year as we gathered to celebrate the Jubilee Year of Hope. It was wonderful to see the children together to share their hopes for a more peaceful and beautiful world, where we are all treated equally with dignity and respect.”

The Academy of St Nicholas announces global partnership with school in China

The Academy of St Nicholas has announced an exciting new international partnership with a school in Foshan, China.

Last year, the Garston-based academy was recognised by the Global School Alliance (GSA) as a ‘globally aware school’ within the Liverpool City Region, and work soon began to establish a partnership with the new sister school, Southwest Campus of Shunde No. 1 Middle School.

The sister school shares many similarities with The Academy of St Nicholas. The school boasts a modern, bright, and impressive campus, similar to the academy, but on a much larger scale, with the capacity to accommodate over 3,000 students.

The academy’s values of ambition, respect, resilience, and compassion align closely with those of the sister school, alongside a shared vision for high-quality education.

This July, the academy will welcome 30 students and staff from Foshan, who will experience school life and cultural activities in Liverpool. In October 2026, 25 students and staff from St Nicholas will visit Foshan where they will attend school and explore local landmarks, traditions, and cuisine.

The exchange aims to broaden students’ perspectives and enhance their cultural awareness. Students will share their experiences through assemblies and workshops, inspiring their peers to embrace global citizenship. To help them prepare, students and staff will receive basic Mandarin lessons and learn about Chinese customs.

Mrs Lindsey Bainbridge, associate assistant headteacher at the academy, will lead the partnership and the exchange.

She commented: “As a modern foreign languages teacher for many years, I’ve always been passionate about connecting with schools in different countries to broaden students’ horizons and enhance global citizenship.

“This is a really exciting time for St Nicholas, and our students are eager to learn about Chinese culture and form international friendships. A huge thank you to the Global School Alliance for all its support.”

Thomas Camilleri, founder and CEO of the Global School Alliance, said: “We are proud to work with The Academy of St Nicholas, and other schools across the Liverpool City Region, to strengthen the link between sister cities Liverpool and Shanghai. This delegation marked a significant milestone following the 25th anniversary of this sister-city relationship, highlighting a shared commitment to impactful educational partnerships.

“Leading many leadership delegations to Shanghai, I was so impressed by the attitude and level of commitment shown by The Academy of St Nicholas.”

Mr Gary Lloyd, headteacher of The Academy of St Nicholas, added: “We are committed to providing our students with opportunities that go beyond the classroom and help prepare them for the world. This partnership with our sister school in Foshan offers a fantastic chance for both our students and staff to explore different cultures, build lasting connections, and gain invaluable international experience.”

St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, leads the way in ‘Walk in White’ for World Cancer Day

St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Little Crosby, part of Pope Francis Catholic Multi Academy Trust, has led a heartfelt fundraising effort for the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, inspiring eight other schools to join them in the ‘Walk in White’ campaign on World Cancer Day.

Each year, St Mary’s works closely with the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, but this time, the school set out to make an even bigger impact. Those at St Mary’s reached out to other local schools, and the response was overwhelming, with a total of nine schools coming together to walk, raise awareness and raise vital funds for the charity.

This included Great Crosby Primary, Rowan House, Ursuline, Valewood, St Nicholas Chesterfield High School, Holy Family High School, St Johns Waterloo and St Mary’s Catholic.

Mrs Scott, headteacher at St Mary’s, shared her pride in everyone’s efforts: “I am so incredibly proud of our children, families and staff for coming together to support such an important cause. Their kindness, generosity and determination to make a difference have been truly inspiring.”

St Mary’s alone raised an impressive £1,500, an outstanding achievement for a small school. Across all nine schools, the fundraising total has reached over £15,000 so far, hugely exceeding the original target of £5,000.

As part of the efforts, the charity also visited the school to deliver an inspiring assembly and a healthy lung workshop, helping pupils understand the importance of lung health.

Mrs Scott added: “This campaign reflects the values at the heart of St Mary’s and the wider Trust, and it has been wonderful to see our school community play such a leading role in something so meaningful.

“This is more than just a fundraiser; it’s about teaching our children to come together for a greater cause and showing them how small actions can make a big difference.”

The success of the event has inspired plans to expand the initiative even further next year, inviting more schools within the Trust and the local community to take part.

To find out more about St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, please visit its website: www.stmaryscatholicprimary.org

An unforgettable careers week at St Aloysius Catholic Primary School

Pupils at St Aloysius Catholic Primary School recently enjoyed an unforgettable Careers Week.

The week was organised by PSHE lead, Miss Colfar, and Mrs Hayes, learning mentor, in response to lessons about ‘dreams and goals’, with the aim of raising children’s aspirations and exposing them to a wide range of career options.

Miss Colfar and Mrs Hayes were eager to make this years’ Careers Week the best one yet by inviting more visitors, creating new experiences, and challenging stereotypes.

Throughout the week, there were 69 visits to classrooms across the school, including from those who run successful local businesses, those working for large companies, sports people, actors, and more.

Actor Dominic Murphy, footballer Izzy Arrowsmith, local MP Ian Byrne, poet Joseph Roberts, engineers from Jaguar Land Rover, personal trainers from Power, Skin Specialist Lovelle, and Diddikicks, were just a few of the inspiring visitors.

There were sessions held by parents and past pupils too, who spoke to the children about their own roles. Former students included Faye Keating, a dancer and choreographer, Joel Aspinall who is a scientist, and musician Paddy Clegg.

Parents and pupils alike also had the opportunity to take part in fitness activities led by ‘TheFitMum’, whilst staff participated in a wellbeing session by parent, Lucy Murray.

The week was closed off with a whole-school celebration, in which Ian Byrne spoke highly of the children, who were able to enjoy some entertaining music from DJ Kaci Lea Lynch.

Overall, St Aloysius’ Careers Week was a huge success. Feedback from visitors, parents, and pupils was phenomenal, with one child saying: “It was the best week ever!”

100% of parents and carers agreed that Careers Week is very important and that it is important for their child to learn about alternative paths.

One parent said: “Careers Week for my child was amazing. He loved every minute and told every family member about it. Thank you for giving our children the most amazing experiences and opportunities!”

The week was documented on social media, where families and the local community can find out more about the motivational events that took place at St Aloysius Catholic Primary School.

St Cuthbert’s Catholic High School’s double success at the Youth Speaks Rotary Competition

Three Year 11 students from St Cuthbert’s Catholic High School have had incredible success in the recent Rotary Club Youth Speaks competition, securing first place in the St Helens district heats before progressing to the North West District Final, where they were crowned runners-up on 12 March.

The Rotary Club runs the Youth Speaks competition annually, where a team of three students enters to speak about a topic they feel passionate about. Each team member has a different role to perform during the competition whilst also staying within strict time limits, and this is no mean feat.

The team has a chairperson, a speaker, and a proposer of the vote of thanks. As well as learning their speeches, the team committed to knowing the scoring criteria so that they could impress the judges in every category.

On top of their GCSE studies and just coming out of a mock exam series, the team members, Abbie, Charlie, and Olive, showed incredible commitment to the competition, regularly attending rehearsals.

Their topic for the speech was how adolescents are negatively portrayed in the media. One of their main arguments was that positive representations of the youth of today are edited out of mainstream media coverage. The team very much embodied the characteristics to be celebrated in today’s young people: confidence, enthusiasm, and resilience.

Charlie, the team’s speaker, said: “Researching the topic helped me learn so much about it and deepen my understanding of the media representation of young people. Taking part in the competition was an enlightening experience, and the whole team really enjoyed the challenge. We are thrilled to have won all our competitions.”

After winning the senior category of the St Helens district heat, the team and the St Cuthbert’s school community were elated when they progressed to the North West District Final. On the

evening, the students again demonstrated their oracy skills and, against strong competition, were awarded runners-up. Parents and staff members were thrilled to be part of the audience to see their victory.

Mrs Larkin, deputy headteacher at St Cuthbert’s, supported the students in their journey to success: “From the moment I started working with this team, I knew there was something unique about their talent. They needed very little direction and were tenacious in their pursuit of excellence. I admire their ability to balance their GCSE studies with the additional pressure of the competition. I was amazed by Charlie’s ability to memorise his speech word for word too!”

Headteacher Mr Holland added: “We are extremely proud of Abbie, Charlie and Olivia. The commitment and courage they demonstrated throughout the competition was incredible. They did themselves, their families and our whole school community proud! All of us at St Cuthbert’s are grateful to the Rotary Club for inviting us to participate and look forward to entering teams again in next year’s Youth Speaks competition.”

Train to teach with SJCMAT: shape young minds and your future

St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust (SJCMAT) is offering a School-Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) programme for those who are ready to make a difference in young lives while building a fulfilling career in education.

The programme provides hands-on experience, expert mentorship, and a direct path to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with a PGCE.

Unlike traditional university-based routes, this one-year SCITT programme is designed to fully immerse participants in the classroom from day one.

Participants will shadow experienced teachers, receive ongoing coaching, and gradually take on more responsibility, ensuring their growth in both confidence and ability. Training is structured to support them every step of the way and prepare each individual to thrive as a teacher.

St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust offers:

• Primary and secondary training across various subjects –including English, science, mathematics, history, PE, and more.

• Placements in outstanding Catholic schools across Liverpool, Bootle, Wigan, St Helens, Runcorn, and beyond.

• Ongoing mentorship and instructional coaching, ensuring continuous professional development.

• A clear path to employment – a guaranteed interview for a teaching role within SJCMAT after qualification.

• Supportive community and wellbeing focus, creating a nurturing environment for trainees.

With tuition fees of £9,535, participants can access student loans, bursaries, and scholarships. Once qualified, they will receive a starting salary of £31,650 as an Early Career Teacher (ECT).

Applications for the programme are now open, but places are limited!

Those who are interested can apply today to begin their journey towards an impactful and rewarding teaching career.

St Francis Xavier’s Catholic Academy achieves GOOD in latest Catholic Schools Inspection

St Francis Xavier’s Catholic Academy (SFX) has achieved a ‘GOOD’ rating in its most recent Catholic Schools Inspection.

This is a well-deserved recognition that highlights the continued growth of the school and its dedication to providing a high-quality Catholic education and environment.

The inspection, which was completed between Wednesday 5 to Thursday 6 February 2025, looked at how the school delivers religious education and collective worship, presents Catholic life, and overall pupil outcomes, provision, and leadership.

In the positive report, SFX was commended for how it incorporates its Xaverian values of respect, care, and excellence throughout the school, as well as the presence of its mission statement, ‘Jesus came so that you may have life in all its fullness’ (John 10:10). The statement was noted as being ‘central to Catholic life’.

Staff were also pleased to read in the report that students had given positive feedback about lessons, including RE itself, where one young person had commented that it is a “happy subject” and that the “learning is interesting.”

The restoration and refurbishment of the chapel was highly commended too. It is an iconic central point of SFX, described in the report as putting ‘Christ at the centre’.

The atmospheric chapel is adorned with beautiful, colourful stained-glass windows and contains rows of pews for students to sit together, practice their faith, say the academy prayer and contribute to chaplaincy.

Involvement in the chaplaincy and time spent in the chapel has positively impacted many children at the school.

A Year 9 student explained: “I’m new to the school and have several anxiety issues. I overcame these through my involvement in chaplaincy which gave me more confidence.”

It was also acknowledged that the school’s assessment and learning schemes are well-structured, effectively supporting teachers in planning and delivering lessons, while helping students follow a consistent and familiar routine.

In particular, the report stated that ‘students form good relationships with each other, and the staff, and they understand that positive behaviour contributes to the school ethos’. Behaviour was also highlighted as ‘good’, and students were complimented on the respect that they have for ‘the prayer life of the school’.

As well as ensuring Catholic life through the emphasis of a moral framework and dedicated prayer spaces in classrooms, the report made note of the school’s very inclusive nature.

The inspector heard fulsome praise from Muslim students about how SFX ensures to accommodate their needs and make them feel welcomed.

The report commended the school for fostering a truly inclusive environment, where every student is valued and supported, alongside an unwavering commitment to excellence and ambition for all.

Roy Matthews, director of Catholic life and head of RE said: “One of the most defining features of a Catholic school is the central role that faith plays in the life of the school. In Catholic schools, everything we do – whether it’s in the classroom, on the sports field, or in the wider community – is underpinned by our Christian faith

and values. The teachings of the Gospel guide our actions and our approach to education, emphasising love, compassion, respect, and justice for all.

Our recent inspection report underlines and affirms that our focus is right and that our provision of these aspects of a pupil’s life are good. For us, however, receiving good is not a final destination but rather a point of departure in order to become even better.”

Luke Mythen, associate head of RE added: “I am immensely proud that we achieved ‘Good’, in particular the RE department, in the Catholic Schools Inspection. This is a testament to the departments and pupils’ hard work, dedication, and unity. We came together, showed the best version of ourselves, and our remarkable improvement has rightfully been acknowledged. This is just the beginning of our journey to ‘outstanding’. With a clear vision and a strong pathway to outstanding, we are shaping a future of excellence, with Christ at the centre.”

Mr David Hayes, who has been headteacher of St Francis Xavier’s Catholic Academy for four years, said: “I am absolutely thrilled that we have received a ‘GOOD’ in our latest Catholic Schools Inspection. This rating is a testament to our wonderful staff who work hard to deliver high-quality Catholic education, the respect and care shown by our students daily, and how everyone comes together to practice our faith.

“At SFX, it is important to us that we look after each other and continue to live out our Xaverian values each and every day. For this to be recognised alongside our mutual ambition and commitment to inclusivity as a school community is fantastic; I am extremely proud.”

As SFX continues to grow and thrive, the school community remains enthusiastic and is looking forward to achieving even greater success throughout the remainder of this academic year.

The academy is proud to be part of St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust.

Called to serve: being a governor at St Joseph Catholic MAT

Recently, Clare Orrell, chair of governors at a school within St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust, was interviewed about her role as a school governor.

Clare shared insights about the responsibilities of her role, her motivations for stepping up, and why she believes that now is the ideal time for others to do the same.

About what made her decide to become a governor, Clare explained: “When I retired as a headteacher (HT), a colleague straight away contacted me and asked me to join her governing body. I’ve been on governing bodies for many years and have always known the way of looking at it as an HT, so it was interesting to get to know schools from the governor’s perspective.

“I was an HT through the pandemic, which was very challenging, and when I came to retire, I didn’t want to leave Catholic education completely, and I thought governance would be a perfect way to remain active.”

To become a governor, no background in education is needed; however, it is very helpful to have some experience in areas such as finance, business, and safeguarding.

The role involves overseeing many aspects of the school, including management and finances, with the ultimate aim of ensuring that students receive the best possible education.

Clare commented: “It can be helpful to understand the world of education and to appreciate what the Department for Education (DfE) expects, but it’s really helpful for people from other backgrounds to complement. We’ve all got something to give.”

There are many rewarding aspects of being a governor, and for Clare, this is: “The opportunity to discuss in detail with the HT their view of the school and how they plan to move it forward. I especially love talking with the pupils on learning walks or classroom visits. It’s great for the work done by the governing body to be acknowledged.

“Being known at school and feeling part of the community is also a wonderful feeling; all the staff know me, and we make time to chat. I ensure I maintain relationships with non-teaching staff because they are vital to the running of the school.”

When asked what she would say to someone thinking of applying, Clare said: “Do it! It gives you incredible insight into how a school runs and how people outside a school can support it, whether it’s a MAT, a local authority (LA), or a faith school – you get to know all the different facets of the school, and it gives you a different perspective.

“It’s an interesting and enjoyable role, definitely very rewarding, especially seeing inspectors talk about governance in their reports – you feel as though what you’re doing is important and has an impact on others. You’re in a team working together, with pride and a sense of satisfaction to see how a school develops.”

St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust is looking for new school governors, a role which it will support and assist with at every step.

The Academy of St Francis of Assisi fast in solidarity with the people of Congo

Staff and students from The Academy of St Francis of Assisi recently took part in a day of fasting to show solidarity with those suffering in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Africa, due to ongoing war and conflict.

As part of the Kensington-based academy’s Lenten Collective Worship, the school community reflected on the key cornerstones of repentance during Lent: prayer, fasting, and giving. Inspired by a suggestion from one of the school’s Common Good Ambassadors, the academy decided to dedicate a day of prayer and fasting to raise awareness of the ongoing crisis in Congo, often referred to as the ‘silent war’ due to its lack of coverage in global media.

All students and staff were invited to participate, with many choosing to fast in different ways. Some opted for a solidarity meal of soup and bread instead of their usual lunch, while others committed to a full fast until the end of the school day. This approach, inspired by Jesus’ teaching on fasting in Matthew 6:16-18, encourages individuals to fast in a way that is meaningful to them.

As a part of the initiative, the academy encouraged students and staff to donate £1 each to support the vital work of Caritas, the Catholic Church’s international aid and development charity. Caritas provides essential support to communities affected by poverty, war, and injustice.

Victoria, a student in Year 9, said: “This Lent, we are fasting and giving to highlight what’s happening in Congo and stand in solidarity with those suffering.”

Year 7 student, Victory, commented: “In Congo, people are fighting over land and minerals, some of these minerals are in our mobile phones. The children of Congo are being affected, some are child soldiers, and others are losing family members and even their own lives”.

Chloe, who is in Year 9, added: “We can help by fasting and praying for the conflict to end, donating to help those in need and raising awareness through local campaigns.”

Ms Jo Leech, headteacher of The Academy of St Francis of Assisi, said: “We are incredibly proud of the Assisi community for taking part in the fast. This initiative has been a meaningful way for our students and staff to engage with the values of Lent and demonstrate solidarity with those who are suffering. It has been inspiring to see our community come together.”

Seal of approval for St. Mary’s College from independent schools inspectors

St. Mary’s College in Crosby has received the seal of approval from inspectors from the UK’s national independent schools watchdog.

Following a three-day visit last month, assessors from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) have said that the school meets all five key standards they have set.

This is the best possible outcome the school could achieve under the ISI’s revamped assessment system, which no longer uses one-word, Ofsted-style gradings, except for children in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

The assessors’ verdict on the school covered key areas such as the quality of education, the physical and mental health of students, safeguarding, leadership and management, and the social and economic education of pupils as well as their contribution to society.

The report praises school leaders for ‘creating an environment in which pupils demonstrate a love of learning and flourish academically’, acknowledging how this helps them to develop as ‘mature individuals with strong moral values’ and become ‘successful and caring citizens’.

Another key element in the success is St. Mary’s ‘engaging curriculum that ensures the acquisition of core knowledge and skills, while offering scope for pupils to pursue their individual interests’.

Teachers are also recognised by inspectors for their ‘good subject knowledge’ and for ‘planning well and using a wide variety of techniques to enable pupils to make good progress’.

Elsewhere in the wide-ranging report, the ISI assessors say that they were impressed by pupils’ behaviour and by St. Mary’s

extensive extracurricular programme ‘that enables pupils to develop their interests and aptitudes in sport, music, drama and a wide range of other activities’.

Also singled out for praise were St. Mary’s safeguarding systems, the way pupils of all ages mix well together and students’ involvement with local and international charities, which reflects the way they are ‘keen to serve others’.

Meanwhile, following their visit, inspectors also awarded a ‘good’ rating to the St. Mary’s Bright Sparks & Early Years nursery, a separately registered early years setting for children aged 0-4.

Knowledgeable and well-trained nursery managers and staff were recognised for their positive relationships with children, the ‘ambitious curriculum’ they have set and for their ‘clear vision of what they want babies and children to learn’ and how this leads to the young children benefiting from a ‘wide range of opportunities to develop their core skills in communication, literacy and numeracy’.

Equally important is the nursery’s focus on the personal development of children which is designed to ‘build their confidence and develop their resilience and problem-solving skills’.

St. Mary’s principal, Mike Kennedy, commented: “We’re delighted with the assessment we have received from the ISI inspectors. It recognises many of what we regard as the key strengths of the school, which is very encouraging.

“Overall, the assessors were clearly impressed with what they saw, and by the many pupils and staff members they met and spoke to. I would like to thank everyone associated with St Mary’s whose ongoing commitment and effort have contributed to making this first-class ISI report possible.”

Mums the Word

I hope everyone is well and looking forward to the Easter services in our churches.

This year, Pope Francis has asked us all to “journey together in hope”. Jesus went to the desert to pray and fast for 40 days, and during Lent, some decide to abstain from sweets, chocolate or eating meat. Yet we could also do good deeds, such as calling on elderly neighbours, relatives or friends to make sure they are well. We could do some shopping for them, or simply have a cup of tea and a chat with them so they don’t feel so lonely. There are many ways we can do good if we only think of other people who are not so fortunate as we may be.

As we prepare for Holy Week, let us also think of the adults who are preparing to receive the Sacraments of Initiation during the Easter Vigil Masses. On a personal note, I know quite a few who are taking the step into our Catholic faith, so let us all pray for them.

And finally, ladies, a reminder that our AGM will be held on Saturday 26 April in the Gibberd Room at the Metropolitan Cathedral. We will begin with Mass at 12pm, followed by lunch, then our meeting. I hope as many members as possible will be able to attend as this is an important meeting for us all. I hope you all have a Holy and Blessed Easter with your families.

Kathy Buck Liverpool Archdiocesan UCM President

Over a Century of Service News from the Liverpool Province of the Knights of St Columba

Calendar update

Following on from the election update I posted last month, I have had the privilege of being elected to the office of provincial grand knight (PGK) for Liverpool. I will continue to write this column and will seek to provide insights into the roles and responsibilities of the PGK over the next three years.

The Relics tour

The relics of Saint Columba, St Margaret of Scotland and St Andrew will be visiting parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Liverpool during April. The tour commenced in Edinburgh in January and will be visiting 17 provinces across the country, culminating in Westminster in September and October.

The Liverpool dates are as follows:

• Monday 14 April to Wednesday 16 April

St Patrick’s, Marshside, Southport – Mass and Exposition on 15 April at 7pm.

• Wednesday 16 April to Good Friday 18 April

Ss Peter and Paul’s, Crosby – See parish bulletin for Mass/Exposition times.

• Good Friday 18 April to Easter Monday 21 April

St Columba’s, Huyton – See parish bulletin for Mass/Exposition times.

• Easter Monday 21 April to Wednesday 23 April

St Charles, Aigburth – See parish bulletin for Mass/Exposition times.

• Wednesday 23 April to Sunday 27 April

St Anne’s, Rock Ferry – See parish bulletin for Mass/Exposition times. After 11am Mass on the Sunday, the relics will be taken on to North Wales.

National action project 2024-26 – Alma Mater

The Alma Mater Fund is an initiative of the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC) and has been adopted as our national action project for the next two years. Since its founding, the Alma Mater Fund has been an important factor in helping more than 80 university students across the UK choose life for their children. One recent recipient said: “Lots of people don’t really pay attention to student/young mums and pregnancy is usually a very lonely time even with the right support system. A grant like this goes a long way and is truly a blessing.”

How can you help? Look out for events organised by your local KSC province or council to raise funds for Alma Mater and support them if you can. You can also donate directly via: spuc.org.uk/donate

Pilgrims of Hope, weekly rosaries

This is open to all Brothers and their families, friends, and fellow parishioners. You can join via Zoom (Zoom ID: 895 3351 1576, Passcode 856705) or Facebook (facebook. com/KofSC).

Dates for your diaries

• Biennial Memorial Mass

Saturday 7 June at the Metropolitan Cathedral – A biennial Celebration of Remembrance for Brothers who have gone to their eternal reward.

• Supreme Council Meeting 2025 – final date and location to be confirmed, but this has been provisionally set for October.

News from the councils

• Council 9 Liverpool will be presenting the fruits of their annual sponsored walk (approx.£4,000) to Zoe’s Place.

• Council 146 Southport are holding an Irish stew supper with entertainment to raise funds for local and regional charities in their centenary year.

If you are interested in finding out more about the KSC or arranging a visit to your local council meeting, then please contact me at Philonline2@btinternet.com Phil Woods, Provincial Publicity Officer

Opportunity knocks for ministrymusic

Lauren Lynch from Animate Youth Ministries explains a new music ministry programme for young people.

As previously mentioned in this column, we have decided to provide certain opportunities for young people during this Jubilee Year. Therefore, it makes sense to elaborate here on one of the things which we said was unfolding in the background, which has now been further developed.

A cohort of adults have been working hard to create a ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ Music Ministry Programme, and below I will seek to explain what it is, whom it is for and why we have created it. Hopefully, you may know a young person who might want to be involved in it. If so, please help us to help young people use their creativity in our parishes and schools.

What is the purpose of this new programme?

• We hope that this group will allow young people in our archdiocese to have an input with liturgies and events throughout the year; to practise music together and build confidence and, in time, to lead worship.

• We are targeting young people from Year 9 to the age of 25 to be a part of this group. We are aware that Year 9 students are not offered things (such as Lourdes, Eucharistic ministry, etc) to enhance them on their faith journey and this is why we have picked this year group. In doing so, we hope to develop the next generation of worship leaders.

• We, as adults, are able to offer our own experiences to young people and support them in doing the same. We also hope to use external contacts in the future to run workshops to help youngsters learn more about being a worship leader and take these qualities back to a school/parish setting.

What is it?

It is an invitation given to those who may have an interest in music/technology/singing/praise and worship to come together, bringing their own gifts with them. Each session will begin with a time of prayer led by volunteer staff. It will end with an optional Mass for which young people will be invited to plan the liturgy and lead the music, putting into practice what they have been learning in the session.

youth ministry

Which young people?

We are looking for anyone from Year 9 onwards up to the age of 25 to be a part of our new Youth Music Ministry. This is a chance for anyone, no matter what their musical background, to gather and form a music group. Everyone can offer something; we are not interested in what grade/studies/ abilities you might think you have, you are just fine to attend as you are. This is a chance for people who have an interest in music as well as their faith to be part of something new and exciting. What is the group called?

Although we had this idea in 2024, with the start of the Jubilee Year we thought it would be nice to launch this new initiative under the title ‘Music Youth Ministry, Pilgrims of Hope’.

When and where?

We will be holding four sessions before the end of this academic year:

6 April – Meet and Greet

(Introduction to music ministry)

11 May – 2nd session

15 June – 3rd session

29 June – Youth Alive Mass and Open Mic Night

Any young people interested should bring themselves (and their instruments) to the sessions at Animate Youth Ministries, Lowe House, 99 Crab Street, St Helens, WA10 2BE.

Thank you, once again, for your continued support for Animate Youth Ministries.

Good Shepherd Appeal 2025

Normandie Wragg Chief Executive Nugent

For 123 years, generations of schoolchildren from all over the archdiocese have continued to support Nugent through Good Shepherd, raising millions of pounds and helping thousands of children and young people by taking part. This amazing support helps us to continue to provide support and care where local government funding and austerity is impacting most and creating hardship. The Good Shepherd appeal has more relevance than ever in helping children and young people in our local communities, right where it’s needed most.

2025 theme: Pilgrims of Hope

As we celebrate the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year 2025, the theme of this year’s appeal is Pilgrims of Hope. This Jubilee calls for a year of forgiveness and reconciliation, and through the Good Shepherd Appeal, we can extend this message of hope to those who need it most.

We invite all schools across the archdiocese to take part in this wonderful tradition by organising fundraising events in support of Nugent’s vital work. Schools that sign up will receive a fundraising pack filled with creative ideas.

Additionally, we encourage schools to design and create their own school banner, reflecting their hopes for the future. These banners will be proudly displayed during the Good Shepherd services.

2025 Good Shepherd services

All participating schools are invited to join us at one of the two special Good Shepherd services: 11th June – 10:30 AM – Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral (Led by Archbishop Malcolm McMahon) 12th June – 2:00 PM

– St Mary’s RC Church, Leyland (Led by Father Bibby)

Find out more

The Good Shepherd Appeal is a powerful way for primary and secondary schools to make a meaningful impact. By coming together as Pilgrims of Hope, we can continue providing care and support where it is needed most.

For further information and support about the Good Shepherd Appeal please contact Joanne, Community Engagement Manager: T: 0151 261 2031

E: joanne.dobbie@wearenugent.org W wearenugent.org

Dialogue and Unity People of faith – Christians and Muslims together

By Ultan Russell, Archdiocesan Ecumenical Officer

The Archdiocese of Liverpool has greatly benefitted from the arrival of the Missionaries of Africa to Saint Vincent de Paul parish in Liverpool city centre.

Often known as the White Fathers, these missionaries see their role as working alongside the African diaspora – hence the decision to establish a community here. The order is passionately committed to interfaith dialogue, ecumenical collaboration and community engagement and it is with great joy that two of their number, Father Terry Madden and Fr Moses Ariho, serve as our Diocesan interfaith advisers.

Fr Moses replaced Cardinal Michael Fitzgerald who had headed interfaith work in the Vatican, lectured in Islamic studies and served as a nuncio, before coming here for several years in retirement. Fr Terry worked in Burkina Faso for 22 years before coming to Liverpool, while Fr Moses is Ugandan and is passionate about interfaith relations as his mother is a Catholic and his father a Muslim.

In early March, these two White Fathers arranged a meeting of community representatives attended by the Iman and the overseer of the Wirral Deen Centre, an Islamic organisation in Birkenhead, as well as friends from the Dialogue Society. This year Lent and Ramadan coincide, and this was discussed at the session.

Over 6.5% of the UK population are Muslim, and Islam is the second-biggest religion in the UK. Over 40,000 Muslims reside in the Liverpool city region. There have been Muslim communities in Great Britain since Victorian times. Indeed, the Quilliam Mosque on Brougham Terrace in L6 is the country’s oldest mosque. In the 1950s and 60s, we welcomed many Muslims who arrived to work as factory labourers from the post-colonial Indian subcontinent. Others have since followed from places such as Somalia, Kosovo and Türkiye. Mosques are now a common feature of our cityscapes.

The Wirral Deen Centre fosters inclusivity, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds to create a cohesive community. It believes that British Muslims should be proud British citizens and remain firm in their belief in Islam and its authentic teachings. Islam teaches us to live in peace and unity with all people and to be positive contributors to the society we are part of. Founded in

2016, the Wirral Deen Centre sees a mosque as a place of worship and also a hub for the whole community to use for activities –surely a challenge to all our churches and indeed all faiths.

At the centre, they teach the Quran and offer a comprehensive funeral service so Muslims can be buried in the correct way according to their tradition. There is also a café, and visitors are welcome. In addition, they have a range of initiatives, including combatting food poverty and interfaith meetings, including strong links with the Bishop of Birkenhead. They even recently launched a scout group. They are geared for visitors, and it might be an idea for a Justice & Peace or UCM group to pay a visit there. The centre’s address is 371-375 Borough Rd, Birkenhead CH42 0HA and you can contact them on 07525655618 or at info@wirraldeencentre.org.uk.

As for the Dialogue Society, this was established in London in 1999 by British Muslims of Turkish background, inspired by the teachings and example of Muslim scholar and peace advocate Fethullah Gulen. It brings people together through discussion forums, courses, publications, and outreach, and operates nationwide with regional branches across the UK. There is a local branch with strong links with St Vincent de Paul’s.

The Dialogue Society is not a religious or ethnic organisation. Rather it aims to facilitate dialogue on a range of social issues, regardless of faith or religion. It stands for democracy, human rights, the non-instrumentalisation of religion in politics, equality, and freedom of speech. For more details, email: info@ dialoguesociety.org.

Prayer by Rabbi Sheila Weinberg of Amherst, Massachusetts

Two peoples, one land, Three faiths, one root, One earth, one mother, One sky, one beginning, one future, one destiny, One broken heart, One God. We pray to You: Grant us a vision of unity.

May we see the many in the one and the one in the many. May you, Life of All the Worlds, Source of All Amazing Differences help us to see clearly. Guide us gently and firmly. toward each other, toward peace. Amen.

Some Roles Are More Than a Responsibility

Behind every thriving school is a strong board, and behind every strong board are passionate leaders—people with a vision who are ready to serve, guide, and inspire. Leaders like you.

At St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust, our schools are built on faith, vision, and commitment. But to continue our mission to serve and provide transformative educational opportunities, we need dedicated Governors to help lead the way.

Step Up as a School Governor

If you feel Called to Serve, now is the time to step forward.

sjcmat.co.uk

Some Roles are a Calling

As a School Governor, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring every pupil receives a world-class Catholic education, regardless of their background. No prior experience is required—only a commitment to placing Christ at the heart of your service and a passion for making a difference.

With a minimum of six meetings a year, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the future of our children, our schools, and our communities.

Lord of all hope

As we walk the path of Lent, we come before You, pilgrims of hope, seeking Your presence in every step we take.

Remind us that we are never alone, that You walk beside us, guiding us through the challenges and triumphs of life.

May we all, in every journey, find peace and courage in the knowledge that You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

Let the hope of the resurrection be our guide, that we may embody Christ’s love and grace in all that we do, in our daily struggles and in our moments of celebration.

As we approach Easter, let us be always mindful that we are not merely walking toward a day, but toward the eternal promise of new life in You. Amen.

From St John Bosco Arts College, may we wish you an Easter filled with Faith, Hope and Love.