CATHOLIC PIC APRIL 2026

Issue 260 April 2026

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In his first Easter message as Archbishop of Liverpool, Archbishop John Sherrington highlights the fresh hope that the Easter season brings.

Finding hope at Easter

In this issue:

Mother’s Union still making it’s mark Also: Ash Wednesday Pax Christ Walk | Archdiocese of Liverpool’s Big Lent Walk for CAFOD

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contents

From the Archbishop’s Desk The month of April opens in the great week of Holy Week. This is the centre of the Church’s Year as we enter the mystery of the Passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The ceremonies of the week reveal the meaning of being a follower of Jesus for each one of us.

I invite you to enter fully into this year’s Holy Week to deepen your faith and pray for peace in the world. It is the richest week in the life of the Church.

On Palm Sunday, we join the people who wave palms and sing ‘Hosanna’ as Jesus enters Jerusalem. By the end of the week, many of the same people will cry out ‘Crucify him!’. They remind me that the human heart is fickle and we need God’s grace to stay faithful. I invite you to join God’s holy people at the Chrism Mass in the Cathedral on Wednesday 1 April at 7:30pm. At this Mass, the holy oils are consecrated for the sacramental life of the Church during the next year, and the priests renew their promises to serve faithfully God’s holy people. I ask you to pray for our priests and for vocations to the priesthood.

On Maundy Thursday, we remember the Last Supper and thank God for the gift of the Eucharist, and commit ourselves to the service of love as we see Jesus wash his disciples’ feet. On Good Friday, we remember his love for us and how he bears our sins and suffers so that we may have new life in him. The Easter Vigil celebrates our history as the people of God and the sacraments of initiation (baptism, confirmation, Eucharist) for those joining or becoming full members of the Church called to serve others and be close to the poor.

This year, Holy Week will be lived in the shadow of the hostilities between the USA, Israel and Iran. As I write this editorial, the bombing campaign continues and the trajectory of the war is unknown. We do know for certain that the human suffering caused by war is immense; family members are injured, many grieve their loved ones, and modern warfare is highly destructive. We mourn the effects of war. As we walk with Jesus during this Holy Week, I ask you to pray earnestly for peace. In recent words of Pope Leo, “Lord, enlighten the leaders of the nations, so they may have the courage to abandon projects of death” and “Today, we lift up our prayer for peace in the world, asking that nations renounce weapons and choose the path of dialogue and diplomacy.”

The Risen Christ greets his apostles with the words “Peace be with you”. We pray that we can greet others on Easter Day with a message of peace, build bridges where there is conflict and that those caught in world conflicts will also know the comfort of peace.

Peace which is a gift of God can only break in when we go beyond armed conflicts, have empathy with the suffering of others, dialogue with others and build upon the foundations of justice.

I wish you all a very joyful and happy Easter.

Archbishop John Sherrington Archbishop of Liverpool

Monthly prayer intentions

APRIL

For priests in crisis.

Let us pray for priests going through moments of crisis in their vocation, that they may find the accompaniment they need and that communities may support them with understanding and prayer.

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) Martin Cahill (cahill-photography.com) Website: www.catholicpic.co.uk Twitter: @PicCatholic Youtube: CPMM Media

Contents: 4 Main Feature Finding hope at Easter 7

Sunday Reflections

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From the Archives A fragment of devotion

9 News

News from around the archdiocese 14 What’s On

What’s happening in the archdiocese 15 Cathedral Record 16 Pastoral Ponderings 17 Profile Fr Peter Ross 18 Catholic Life 28 Pic Extras Mum’s the word News from the KSC 29 Youth Ministry 30 Dialogue and Unity

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feature

Finding hope at Easter “Easter invites us to love others.

On Maundy Thursday, Jesus washed his disciples’ feet and is a witness to service. We are invited to care for and love others by attending to their needs and bringing solace and hope. Today we rejoice; Christ is risen from the dead. Happy Easter.”

In his first Easter message as Archbishop of Liverpool, Archbishop John Sherrington highlights the fresh hope that the Easter season brings.

By Simon Hart “Happy Easter. We sing, ‘Jesus Christ is risen today, alleluia!’

Praise the Lord!” These are the words with which Archbishop John Sherrington begins his message to the people of Liverpool city and region this Easter. For Archbishop Sherrington, this is his first Easter leading the services at the Metropolitan Cathedral and announcing the Good News of the Resurrection.

As he will add in his message on Easter Sunday: “Today is a day of great joy.

Lent is over and we can enjoy the feast of Easter. Throughout the world, churches are garlanded with flowers, and Easter candles burn brightly. The newness and lightness of springtime resonate with the new hope offered by Jesus risen from the dead.”

For those attending the Holy Week services at the Cathedral, that message of hope and joy will be reflected by the music that will accompany the Liturgy, and it is a message that feels especially significant right now, given the conflicts and uncertainties of our time when the Church continues to battle for the preservation of all human life – from conception through to death.

The optimism that Easter brings is underlined by what Archbishop Sherrington calls the “green shoots”

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of Easter, referring to one of the most joyful aspects of the celebration, namely the culmination of the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) process.

This year has witnessed an especially high number of catechumens and candidates – adults preparing to be welcomed into the Church at the Easter Vigil – and overall, more than 340 people will either be baptised or received into the full Communion of the Church this Easter, be it at the Cathedral or in their parishes. It is a hope-filled moment, particularly given the number of young people involved, and it will be felt all the way from Preston in the north of the archdiocese to Widnes in the south – and from Worsley in the east to the Isle of Man in the west.

As the archbishop reflects in his Easter message: “At Easter, we celebrate God’s love for us. Three days ago, on Good Friday, we remembered when Jesus died on the cross. He died to free us from sin and welcome us into a new life with Him

by Baptism. Today we congratulate, and rejoice with, all those adults baptised last night at the Easter Vigil and those who received confirmation and the Holy Eucharist. They are the new green shoots in the Church.”

Father Ged Callacher, the episcopal vicar for parish development, adds: “This Easter, we give thanks for those who will be received into the Church

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through the RCIA. Their journey has been one of searching, listening and responding to the voice of Christ. In welcoming them, we are reminded that faith is never something static, but a living call that continues to resonate in our own hearts.

Their witness invites all of us to renew our own discipleship and to walk more closely with the risen Lord.”

Easter at the Cathedral

The Easter Triduum at the Cathedral will begin with the Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 7.30pm on Maundy Thursday, 2 April. It will include a period of ‘watching’, and will conclude with night prayer. For the first time here in Liverpool, Archbishop Sherrington will undertake the washing of the feet, which commemorates Jesus’ washing of the disciples’ feet at the Last Supper.

On Good Friday, there will be the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion at 3pm, with the Passion to be sung, followed by Communion and Veneration of the Cross.

Then, to mark the beginning of Easter, the Easter Vigil and First Mass of Easter will be celebrated at 8.30pm on Saturday 4 April.

During this solemn liturgy, the Paschal candle will be lit, and we will see a cohort of catechumens baptised into the Church.

Several Masses will follow at the Cathedral on Easter Sunday itself.

Ahead of the Triduum, on Wednesday 1 April, the entire archdiocesan family will gather for the Mass of Chrism at 7.30pm, as priests from across the archdiocese renew their commitment to service.

There will also be the blessing of the Holy Oils to be used in the celebration of the sacraments throughout the coming year.

‘The light of Christ breaks into darkness’

To return to the Easter message of Archbishop Sherrington, he adds: “Easter renews the gift of hope. It is the hope that death has been conquered and is not the end. We can hope in the promise of eternal

life with the saints in heaven. They praise and worship God.

“Easter deepens the gift of faith. With faith in Jesus, we can face suffering knowing that sickness, suffering and death are conquered by the Risen Christ. They are not the end. The light of Christ breaks into darkness.”

The Archbishop’s affirmation about light breaking into darkness highlights that sense of renewed hope which counters the dark shadows cast by today’s conflicts around the world, particularly the current wars in the Middle East which Pope Leo has described as “a scandal to the whole human family”.

In the Holy Land, Taybeh, which is widely regarded as the West Bank’s last fully Christian town, faces ongoing and escalating attacks from Israeli settlers.

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Palestinian civilians continue to be killed in Gaza, meanwhile, where Father Gabriel Romanelli and his parishioners at Holy Family Church – the one Catholic parish in the devastated Strip – show a level of faith and perseverance in the face of terrible suffering that give a lesson to us all.

At the time of writing, the traditional Easter events in Jerusalem seem unlikely to go ahead, with the annual Palm Sunday procession from the Mount of Olives having already been cancelled and the Chrism Mass postponed, as Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch, confirmed on 23 March.

Yet the Patriarch too highlighted the hope that is found in Easter when he said: “Easter, which we celebrate in the name of Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection, reminds us that no darkness, not even that of war, can have the last word. The empty tomb is the seal of the victory of life over hatred, of mercy over sin. Let us allow this certainty to illuminate our steps and sustain our hope.”

As well as hope, Easter is a reminder of the power of love – even in the face of death. As Archbishop Sherrington concludes in his message to us: “Easter invites us to love others. On Maundy Thursday, Jesus washed his disciples’ feet and is a witness to service. We are invited to care for and love others by attending to their needs and bringing solace and hope. Today we rejoice; Christ is risen from the dead. Happy Easter.”

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A Ukrainian Easter prayer The message of hope resounds just as strongly in the celebrations in the Ukrainian GreekCatholic liturgy, according to Father Taras Khomych, who offers the following example which is sung in his community’s Easter services: “Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and on those in the tombs, bestowing life.”

Sunday reflections

On a liturgical note As Saint Paul says, “If Christ is not raised from the dead, then our hope is in vain.” Hence, this Solemn Feast of the Lord’s Resurrection and His promise “I am with you always” is at the very heart of our Christian faith – and, therefore, at the very heart of our Christian worship.

At the Vigil of Easter, we proclaimed that “all times and all ages belong to Him” and the living out of that each and every day is the privilege of our lives as Christians. What does it mean to proclaim the Resurrection? It translates in our daily living as an attentiveness to the ‘green shoots’ of hope, which can be all the more elusive in our fractured and increasingly violent world.

It translates as actively seeking the good in our choices, in our thoughts, words, and deeds every day, and working with ‘all people of goodwill’ to enhance our societies and communities and families.

Canon Philip Gillespie

The collaboration in the work of our parishes and the outreach which we have through teaching and caring is also a practical and active application of our faith in the Resurrection; the Lord has promised to be with us at all times and in all circumstances, and so we not only place our confidence in that promise but also allow that confidence to give us strength and purpose in our Christian living.

Perhaps the next time we join together for Mass and hear the words in the Eucharistic Prayer that we should give thanks and put into action our Resurrection faith “always and everywhere”, that can be food for thought… and an examination of conscience.

Finally, I hope you enjoy the 50 days of the Easter season.

Sunday thoughts

Mgr John Devine OBE

It’s been an easy Lent for me this year. Easy, because the aggressive rhetoric and accounts of destruction and death assaulting me each day means there’s no need to contrive extra Lenten mortification.

nor personally eliminate despots and warmongers, but I can open myself to change. I can make small acts of courtesy and kindness in defiance of the killing culture being promoted and pumped out across the globe.

There’s an abundance of desolation and wilderness in plain sight. My Lenten commitment has been not to avert my gaze.

I’ve resisted the temptation to switch off the news and to allow the ghastly images of day-on-day human suffering to sit with me.

As you read this, Easter will have already arrived. I can’t predict the future, but I’m sure the international scene is still a mess. So what change will our celebration of the Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour, bring?

Perhaps I should revise that question and ask myself what change, by the grace of God, should I allow the Easter mystery to bring about in me in early April 2026? I can’t singlehandedly bring about regime change,

I’m always stopped short by the words of the Hebrew prophet Habakkuk when they crop up in the Morning Prayer of the Church: “Even though the fig does not blossom nor fruit grow on the vine, even though the olive crop fails and fields produce no harvest, even though the flocks vanish from the fields and stalls stand empty of cattle, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, and exult in God my Saviour.”

This isn’t just a farmer’s prayer but one for all of us; a dogged determination to hope and trust in bleak times. And to rejoice. The Easter story is one of hope. Hope isn’t a feeling, it’s a decision. The Christian insists on life when others settle for death. Alleluia.

Have you met the risen Jesus?

I once watched a mime artist called Steve Murray perform a piece called ‘My father’s chair’. As I watched, the tears poured down my face.

I think I was moved because it grew out of an experience that was not dissimilar to my own and I found myself thinking back to my childhood, which was not easy. My father was an alcoholic whose frustrations were often taken out on his family with long periods of silence and outbursts of temper.

At best, my dad seemed to be indifferent towards me. I don’t remember ever being called by name or having him hold me other than on one occasion when I was lost. I was a very sensitive child and I loved him very much, and I think I hurt more because of that. I did what most of us do when we hurt inside: I put the barriers up and I eventually became both an argumentative and sullen teenager. I trusted very few people and God was an irrelevance, if God existed at all.

I had stopped going to church when I was about 13. Mum had encouraged me to go to Mass in the evening at our local church. It was the so-called youth Mass and after a couple of weeks hanging around the porch, I drifted away to the local park to play football. It was only discovered that I wasn’t attending Mass about 18 months later, when I came home one Sunday evening and my mum asked me, “Who said Mass?”. My response was quick: “Father Bonner,” I said. “Really?” replied my mum with one eyebrow raised. “How strange – he died this afternoon.” After that, I went back to the porch just so I wouldn’t be caught again.

When I was about 15, my mum asked me to go out with her for the day and I went. We had an old car, so we went to pick up another couple who I decided, within seconds, were crazy. Their conversation was punctuated with ‘Praise God’ and ‘Alleluia’. What on earth had I let myself in for? I had been taken to what was called a day of renewal. This was 1975 and renewal was sweeping across this country. I hardly knew what church was, let alone what was happening here. However, a man got up and began to talk about Jesus in a way I’d never heard before.

I knew that I wanted to know Jesus the way he did.

All I can say to you is that the risen Lord walked into the cold dark recesses of my soul and filled me with love. I encountered a God who was present with me.

Nothing I had done and nothing I was going to do in the future would change that. It was as though the scales had been taken off my eyes and I could see. Any real encounter with Jesus changes the way people see things and do things. It turns the world upside down constantly. So some questions to reflect on: have I really met the risen Jesus? Do I see things in a totally different way? Is the power of God’s love alive in me?

To meet the risen Lord is to be turned upside down.

Please God, his presence will invade our lives.

Father Chris Thomas

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from the archives

Listening alone

by Neil Sayer, Archdiocesan Archivist

Archbishop Worlock preparing a broadcast from Liverpool’s Radio City studio, c.1977

When Bishop Derek Worlock was appointed as Liverpool’s seventh Archbishop in 1976, he quickly established the mediasavvy style that would characterise the 20 years of his episcopacy.

He was, according to the Catholic Pic, “The first Catholic bishop to have called a press conference as a means of meeting his new parishioners.” The conference, held in the boardroom at the Liverpool Curial Offices, was said to have been “an astonishing success in a new style of public relations.” It announced the arrival of a dynamic leader happy in the public eye and able to court and use the media for the promotion of the Church. His media-friendly approach can be seen in the personal descriptions from that press conference, of a “youthful looking” man (he was 56) with “an air of quiet dignity” and, usefully for radio, “a pleasant, quiet voice.” He “dealt with questions on a variety of subjects in a quiet, confident manner.”

The archbishop’s father was a journalist, and his own liking for the media can be judged from his “Who’s Who” entry. When asked to provide an autobiographical summary for his appearance in this compendium of the leaders and influencers in the country, he listed under his hobbies “Broadcasting”.

He began early. Even in the 1950s, when merely a private secretary in London (to Cardinals Griffin and Godfrey) he was frequently sought by radio programme producers to offer his views and comments on a variety of topics. In those days, radio programmes were less restricted by the quotas for religious content, so notoriously manipulated today. But scripts were required, for TV or radio, and many of them survive among Archbishop Worlock’s papers. Broadcasts of religious services, current affairs programmes, the epilogue to end the night’s listening, commissioned features about Cardinal Griffin or St John Vianney, all were crafted and delivered by him. His speaking style often seems surprisingly folksy: “Have you ever known…”, “But, you know…”, “You remember…”. It’s almost as if he’s buttonholing the listener. Perhaps he had in mind the paradox about radio broadcasting noted by George Orwell: “Millions may be listening, but each is listening alone.” It was certainly a useful apprenticeship.

Archbishop Worlock’s frequent appearances in the media in the 1980s and 1990s are well known. He was often in the company of the Anglican Bishop of Liverpool, Dr David Sheppard, and they did a huge amount to promote a positive image of Liverpool and defend the city from its detractors, politicians included.

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Telethon 1992 last minute nerves as the script is checked

Their efforts culminated, it might be said, in Granada Television’s Telethon of 1992. This was the third and, as it turned out, final broadcast of the ITV network charity extravaganza, which Archbishop Worlock had been involved with since its beginnings in 1987. The first Telethon, broadcast over 27 hours of the late May Bank Holiday weekend in 1988, was billed as “the largest, longest entertainment show ever mounted, harnessing the diverse talents of all 15 ITV companies.” Much like the BBC’s present-day Children in Need and Red Nose Day events, stars and celebrities contributed chat and sketches in an effort to raise money from viewers for good causes relating to disability, homelessness, children’s and community groups. For the 1992 Telethon, Archbishop Worlock and Bishop Sheppard co-presented a morning “act of worship” from the grounds of the Metropolitan Cathedral. Over 40 minutes of live broadcast, presentations from 10 different parts of the country illustrated “the many different faith backgrounds and cultural backgrounds that make up this country.”

The Bishop and the Archbishop were the lynchpins, providing links to - among others - Bristol Hindus giving a traditional blessing, a community choir in Armagh, a presentation by the Leeds Jewish community of a tale from the Old Testament, and a composite Liverpool choir including singers from parishes in Aigburth and Aintree. It all relied, of course, on timing and technology, and must have been stressful for those in front of and behind the cameras.

Years of broadcasting experience would have given Archbishop Worlock the calmness and confidence to host this part of the Telethon. What wasn’t generally known was that he had been discharged from an emergency admission to hospital only a couple of hours before the broadcast. The following day came his diagnosis of lung cancer.

News diary

News 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

Retreat day offers space to listen, pray and prepare for Easter Following the celebration of the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, catechumens and candidates from across the archdiocese gathered once again on Saturday 14 March for a dedicated RCIA retreat day at the Carmelite Monestery.

Held in a spirit of reflection and prayer, the retreat brought together catechumens, candidates and catechists at a crucial point in their Lenten journey towards full initiation into the Church at Easter. This year’s gathering saw the highest attendance in three years, a further sign of the continued growth described recently by Archbishop John Sherrington as “green shoots” within local communities.

reinforcing the sense of being part of the wider diocesan family.

Gratitude was also extended to the RCIA Core Team, whose careful planning and organisation ensured a prayerful and welcoming experience for all involved.

As the catechumens and candidates now continue their preparation during Lent, the retreat day stands as a reminder of the importance of making space for God amid life’s demands. With Easter drawing nearer, occasions such as this help nurture the faith that will soon be celebrated in the sacraments of initiation.

• For more information about RCIA in the archdiocese, email: rcia@rcaol.org.uk

The day offered participants a valuable opportunity to step away from the pace of daily life and enter more deeply into prayer. Central to the retreat was time spent in Lectio Divina, the Church’s traditional practice of prayerful reflection on Sacred Scripture, allowing individuals to encounter the Word of God in a personal and meaningful way.

A highlight of the day was a period of Eucharistic Adoration at the Carmelite Monastery. In the stillness before the Blessed Sacrament, many described feeling a profound sense of “peace” and “closeness to the Lord”. The atmosphere of quiet devotion created space for reflection, discernment, and a deepening awareness of God’s presence.

Those attending spoke warmly of the retreat, with feedback described as overwhelmingly positive. Many valued the opportunity simply “to be with the Lord” during this important stage of their faith journey, echoing the Lenten call to prayer, listening and conversion.

The retreat was supported by Bishop Tom Neylon, who offered accompaniment and guidance throughout the day. His presence was greatly appreciated by both candidates and catechists alike,

Ash Wednesday Pax Christi Walk Members of Pax Christi Merseyside gathered in Liverpool city centre on Ash Wednesday for their annual Walk of Repentance, stopping along the route for prayer, silence, song and reflection.

The witness drew deeply on the meaning of Ash Wednesday - “You are dust, and to dust you shall return” - and focused particularly on the continuing moral and humanitarian reality of nuclear weapons.

The walk began at St Luke’s Church, before moving through Bold Street, Church Street and Lord Street, and past the Law Courts.

Reflections during the walk drew on the day’s Scripture readings and echoed the call of Pope Leo XIV’s 2026 World Day of Peace message, “Peace be with you all: Towards an ‘unarmed and disarming’ peace.” Participants highlighted not only the threat posed by nuclear weapons, but also their wider humanitarian, environmental and economic consequences.

Photo credit: Paul L Turnbull, www.flickr.com/photos/m13photography

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News diary

Record number of altar servers at St Mary’s, Leyland St Mary’s Church in Leyland is celebrating an increase in the number of altar servers at the parish – with 27 active servers.

All servers vary in age, with the oldest being 92 and the youngest being in primary school.

Explaining the reason behind the increase in servers, parish priest Fr Joe Bibby said: “When children make their first Holy Communion, they have the catechesis sessions after the monthly Children’s Mass. We do this so that the children get used to coming to Mass so they become comfortable, confident, and at home in the church.

Fr Joe added: “Our family Masses are really popular, and the children love to get involved.”

The church was well represented at the Chrism Mass on 1 April, with a coach full of parishioners and altar servers from the parish travelling to the Metropolitan Cathedral.

“In autumn, every child who has made their first Holy Communion that year receives a personal invite from me to become an altar server.

“Those who accept are then given preparation sessions and our experienced altar servers guide them through the different responsibilities involved in the role.”

The parish is a very welcoming place for families – with a wellattended children’s liturgy every week and a popular children’s Mass on the last Sunday of every month. This includes an interactive homily where children get involved.

40 years of the Brian Boru Club’s St Patrick’s Day Parade The Brian Boru Club celebrated the 40th anniversary of its St Patrick’s Day parade in Ashton-in-Makerfield this year.

The rain wasn’t enough to dampen the spirits of the club, founded back in 1889, as Canon McNally celebrated Mass in English and Gaelic, followed by a parade through the town.

Mayor of Wigan Jenny Bullen officially opened the parade, and joined councillor Andrew Bullen, local MP Josh Simons and Deirdre O’ Flaherty from the Irish consulate in Manchester, alongside St Patrick, 12 Irish wolfhounds, the Liverpool pipe band, a 100 year old banner (on loan from Wigan St Patrick’s church), an inflatable leprechaun, 8ft Brian Boru, three Mustang cars in the colours green white and gold, two low-loader trucks, a green tractor and Wigan True Levellers samba band.

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There was entertainment including singing, dancing and music all afternoon and evening.

The parade was also joined by the different groups that use the club - Claddagh community group, Comhaltas junior and senior musicians, Siobhan Clarke dancers, Ceili-cise dancers, film club, Friday karaoke and social, Friday night music session, walking group, running group, word circle group – to name a few!

“It was a fabulous community celebration”, commented Tom Moran, President of the Brian Boru club. “Thank you to all who supported our St Patrick’s Day festivities!”

Archdiocese of Liverpool’s Big Lent Walk for CAFOD Canon Tony O’Brien (pictured) and a team from Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral joined people all across Archdiocese of Liverpool as parishes, schools and individuals took part in this year’s CAFOD Big Lent Walk.

CAFOD Coordinator Colette Byrne said, “This Lent we have been walking 200km over the 40 days of Lent in solidarity with our sisters and brothers around the globe who walk long distances for clean, safe water every day. Every £1 raised through the Big Lent Walk will help to bring life-saving water to communities in places like Ethiopia and Peru. We have loved sharing our walking updates with each other, motivating each other as we journey together through Lent raising awareness of the challenges communities face”.

Communities like Mortikana’s. Mortikana, 70, lives in a rural village in southern Ethiopia. Her village did not have access to a water source and Mortikana and other women from her community were forced to walk for six hours every day to collect clean water.

Thankfully, CAFOD and a local expert organisation focusing on women’s empowerment, built a cement water cistern with enough capacity for the whole of Mortikana’s village.

The cement structure ensures that the water doesn’t evaporate. It’s located close to the village, meaning Mortikana and other women no longer have to walk for hours for water.

“Us women have more time to care for our families now that the water source is next to our village,” says Mortikana. “I can look after my children at home and send them to school with water to keep them hydrated and focused. They are clean every day now. We all are.”

With your hard work and sponsorship this Lent, we can change families’ lives for good and tell poverty to take a hike.

To find out more about CAFOD’s work and to get involved, visit cafod.org.uk

FEAST OF DIVINE MERCY

Sunday 12 April 2026

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 Holy Family, Cronton, WA8 5DP 1.30pm Exposition, Rosary, Confession, Devotions, Mass 4.00 pm (Peter who previously ran the Divine Mercy shop in London Rd)

St John’s Fountains Rd, Kirkdale, Liverpool, L4 1QL Confessions all day 2.00pm Talk, Testimony, Chaplet, Adoration Benediction 4.00pm Mass St Clares, Arundel Avenue, Liverpool, L17 2AU 3.00pm Confessions, Devotions, Adoration

St Aloysius, Twig Lane, Roby, Liverpool, L36 2LF 2.00pm Devotions, Confessions Mass 5.00pm

St Francis of Assisi, Earp St Garston Liverpool, L19 1RT 4.00pm Divine Mercy Devotions after 5.00pm Confessions St Mary's, Standishgate, Wigan, WN1 1XL 3.00pm Devotions, Confessions 4.30pm Mass at St John’s Church

Sacred Heart Throstlenest Av Wigan WN6 7AT 3.00pm Start

Sacred Heart, Brooks St, Chorley, PR6 0NG 3.00pm Chaplet, Talk, Confessions followed by Mass

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.

FOR FULL INFORMATION ON HOW TO GET EWTN

www.ewtn.co.uk/ get-ewtn

The Divine Mercy Chaplet given by Our Lord to St Faustina is a way of helping the millions of people suffering from effect of war and 43 million from severe hunger Catholic Pictorial

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News diary

Christians gather at St John Vianney for World Day of Prayer 2026 For over 40 years, Christians from churches in Halewood and Hunts Cross have gathered to celebrate the World Day of Prayer.

This year, St John Vianney parish hosted the service, prepared by the Ladies of Nigeria around Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”

Held at Holy Family Church on Friday 6 March, Christians from local churches joined in a great wave of prayer which encircled the globe, beginning in Samoa and ending, 146 countries later, in American Samoa - all praying with, and for, the country and people of Nigeria. It was a wonderfully joyous and spiritually uplifting occasion.

A collection of £580 was sent to the World Day of Prayer (WDP) UK office to be distributed among the many national and international charities helped by WDP.

Jottings of a Roman Pilgrim

By Pat Murphy During the month of April, we celebrate the feast of St Catherine of Siena, a saint of the 14th century who we still have extensive documentation about.

She was a member of the Third Order of St Dominic and spent much time in Rome, and in fact died in the city at the young age of 33. Her body is preserved in the lovely church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva. After much fighting between the cities of Rome and Siena, her birth city, as to where she should be buried, her head was removed and transferred to Siena the city of her birth – rather grisly.

The church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva in Rome is a minor basilica and is really quite stunning. Built on the remains of the temple of Isis, it is literally just around the corner from the Pantheon. As you walk towards the church, there is usually a very good musician singing or playing an instrument, which always adds to the enjoyment of the visit for me. There is a small obelisk – well, small by Roman standards – and at the top is an elephant.

The 6th century obelisk was brought from a temple of Isis in Greece. When a pilgrim asked the artist Bellini “why an elephant?” he replied, “why not?” The elephant, according to Pope Alexander, represents wisdom and intelligence.

Reminder: Book Now for the Young Adult Assisi Pilgrimage (Discount Available)

Young adults aged 18–35 are warmly reminded to secure their place on the Archdiocese of Liverpool’s pilgrimage to Assisi, taking place from 29 November to 2 December 2026.

This special journey, organised in partnership with McCabe Travel, offers the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of St Francis during the 800th anniversary year. Pilgrims will visit key sites associated with St Francis and St Clare, and learn more about the life of Blessed Carlo Acutis.

The cost of the trip includes flights, accommodation, transport, and all meals (except one dinner), with shared rooms provided.

A limited-time advance booking offer is currently available: • £799 per person for the first 15 people to book (£849 after this) • Reduced deposit of £200 (normally £500) • Offer valid for bookings made by 20 April 2026 Register for the information evening: archdioceseofliverpool.org/MoreInfoAssisi More information and booking: archdioceseofliverpool.org/BookAssisi

Early booking is strongly encouraged to take advantage of

the discount and secure your place.

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The church itself is a pleasure to the eye. The arched vaulted ceiling is vibrant blue with gilded stars, and a brilliant red trim draws you in. Where to start – the side chapels, the frescos? I am normally drawn to the high altar where the saint’s body rests, and also a beautiful sculpture to the left by Michelangelo of Christ the Redeemer. It’s such a simple and gentle work by the great man.

Like many of the basilicas in Rome, Sopra Minerva is the burial place of a few Popes, and an English Cardinal, Philip Howard. It’s also the resting place of Dominican friar Blessed Fra Angelico. Best known, of course, for painting the cells at the monastery of San Marco in Florence, he was a Dominican who lived his later days in the Dominican monastery next door to Sopra Minerva.

This church is certainly not to be missed even on a short visit to the eternal city.

E M E RG E NCY “I am closer than ever to the Sudanese population, in particular families, children and the displaced.”

Pope Leo XIV

Donate to help families in Sudan

Millions have been fleeing conflict and face hunger as the war in Sudan enters its fourth year.

Give monthly to help children at risk of life-threatening malnutrition.

£20

a month can buy a regular food basket for a hungry child.

cafod.org.uk/StandWithSudan or call 0303 303 3030

p01-17_covers 02/09/2022 15:32 Page 11 Photo: CAFOD Registered charity number 1160384. Company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales number 09387398.

what’s on Wednesday 1 April The Mystery of Suffering and Vulnerability: A guide through Holy Week 6:00pm (continues until 10:00pm on Saturday 4 April) at The Irenaeus Project, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, L22 1RD The Irenaeus Project are hosting an Easter retreat over the Easter Triduum. All are very welcome to attend. Residential places are also available – you are advised to book early to avoid disappointment. Email jenny@ irenaeus.co.uk.

Wednesday 1 April Chrism Mass 7:30pm at Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King, Mount Pleasant, Liverpool, L3 5TQ Our annual Chrism Mass will take place on the Wednesday in Holy Week. This year’s theme is Young People’s Ministry. All are very welcome to attend.

April Thursday 16 April Newman Association Talk: The Now of God – Seeing Young People with the Eyes of God 7:30pm at St Helen, Alexandra Road, Crosby, L23 7TG Kate Wilkinson, CEO of Million Minutes, will lead the next Newman Association Talk. All are very welcome to attend.

Monday 20 April Youth Ministry Review Open Meeting 7:00pm – 9:30pm at St Joseph, Crow Orchard Lane, Wrightington, WN6 9PA Help us shape youth ministry for the future.

This open meeting invites adults, young adults and young people (aged 11–18, accompanied by an adult) to share their experiences and ideas. The process is being facilitated by Danny Curtin.

Saturday 11 April 2026 Solemn Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament 9:00am – 9:00pm at St John the Evangelist, Chapel Lane, Lathom, L40 7RA All are welcome as St John the Evangelist holds their annual Solemn Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. Holy Mass will be celebrated at 6:30pm, followed by Holy Hour with Benediction at 8:00pm.

Saturday 25 April A Day of Celebration for St Gerard Majella 9:30am – 7:00pm at Our Lady of the Annunciation (Bishop Eton), Childwall, L16 8NQ A day of celebration marking the 300th anniversary of St Gerard Majella. The day will include services of blessing for mothers and families, Mass celebrated by Archbishop John Sherrington at midday, and time for prayer and exposition. All are very welcome to attend.

Tuesday 28 April Archdiocesan Young Adult Group – Faith Based Talk with Pat Murphy 6:30pm – 8:00pm at Pauline Book Centre, Liverpool City Centre This talk, titled Faithful Pilgrim, will be given by Pat Murphy. All aged 18–35 are welcome to attend. Sign up here: archdioceseofliverpool. org/PatMurphyTalk or contact Moses Mui at m.mui@rcaol.org.uk

Sunday 12 April Solemn Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament 9:00am – 9:00pm at St John the Evangelist, Chapel Lane, Lathom, L40 7RA All are welcome as St John the Evangelist continues their annual Solemn Exposition.

Holy Mass will be celebrated at 9:00am, with Night Prayer and Benediction at 8:30pm.

Tuesday 14 April Archdiocesan Young Adult Group Faith Based Talk with Fr Peter Murphy 6:30pm – 8:00pm at Pauline Book Centre, Liverpool City Centre Fr Peter Murphy will give a talk titled “You will be my witness”. All aged 18–35 are welcome to attend.

Sign up for the talk here: archdioceseofliverpool.org/PeterMurphyTalk For more information contact Moses Mui at m.mui@rcaol.org.uk

Tuesday 21 April Youth Ministry Review Open Meeting 7:00pm – 9:30pm at St Monica, Fernhill Road, Bootle, L20 9GA Help us shape youth ministry for the future.

This open meeting invites adults, young adults and young people (aged 11–18, accompanied by an adult) to share their experiences and ideas. The process is being facilitated by Danny Curtin.

Tuesday 28 April 2026 Continuing along the path of Synodality 7:00pm – 8:30pm (Online) A further session in the Synodality series reflecting on themes from the Synod on Synodality.

Join the Zoom meeting here: archdioceseofliverpool.org/SynodalityZoom

Tuesday 21 April Continuing along the path of Synodality 7:00pm – 8:30pm (Online) A series of Zoom sessions during Eastertide offering reflection, sharing and prayer on themes from the Synod on Synodality. Visit the zoom link here: archdioceseofliverpool. org/SynodalityZoom

For Easter Mass times in your parish, visit: www.liverpoolcatholic.org.uk/news/easter-mass-times-2026 14

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Cathedral

Singing is for life, not just for Christmas (or Easter, or Mother’s Day…)!

by Dr Christopher McElroy Director of Music, Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral The ability to make music in song is a God-given gift bestowed on us all. We sing all through our lives on happy occasions, sad occasions and significant milestones. One of the greatest gifts we can offer people is opening the door for them to a love of singing.

Here in the archdiocese, we currently offer a variety of opportunities for those who enjoy making music together with others by singing.

Area Catholic Children’s Choirs

We currently run four area choirs, all open to children aged 7-13 and FREE to join.

Liverpool (central) Monday, 16.30-17.30, Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, L3 5TQ Liverpool (south) Tuesday, 17.00-18.00, St Mary’s Parish Hall, L25 SJF Knowsley Mondays, 16.00-17.00, St Columba’s School, L36 BBL Widnes Mondays, 16.00-17.00, St John Fisher Parish Centre, WA8 3JA Our area choirs are for children who love singing, meeting new people, and who want to have the opportunity to sing in some amazing places.

Opportunities for teenagers The Cathedral Youth Choir is for those in years 8-13 to sing together in the Metropolitan Cathedral on a weekly basis.

Opportunities for adults

Cantate! Is our adult community choir for those who enjoy singing together with others. It meets on a Tuesday evening at St Anthony of Padua Parish Centre, L18 8BD and performs at 3 to 4 events each year, singing a mix of secular and sacred music.

For adults with high level music making experience and ability, there are opportunities to audition to become part of the pool of adult singers (known as Lay Clerks) in the Cathedral Choir.

To find out more about these opportunities visit: eepurl.com/ i8AkqA or scan the QR code:

Chorister for a Day: 14 June, 13.00-16.00 Voice Trials (auditions): 16-18th June

Former choristers have gone on to Oxbridge, prestigious music conservatoires, and hold distinguished posts such as headteachers, lawyers and doctors.

Canon Anthony O’Brien – Cathedral Dean

The liturgies of Holy Week and Easter take precedence for the first two weeks of April. It is such a privilege being at the Cathedral and taking part in the beautiful services over this period, but by the end of Easter Sunday evening everyone, needs a well-earned rest.

The times of the main liturgies over this period can be found on both the archdiocese and the cathedral website.

There is also a sung service of Tenebrae, and the Sung Office of Readings and Morning Prayer on the Triduum Days in Holy Week at 10am. Archbishop Sherrington will preside at the Easter Vigil at 9pm.

This year, we have 12 adults for baptism at the Vigil service, along with 8 receptions – a very joyful end to the journey that all these adults have been on over the last six months.

As well as the normal Mass times on Easter Sunday day, we have Sung Evening Prayer at 3pm beginning in the Baptistery of the Cathedral. If you can, please come and join us for some of these beautiful and moving services.

Please see the cathedral website for the times of services.

On Friday 24 April, the choral singing group ‘The Sixteen’ will be returning to the Cathedral as part of their 2026 Tour.

They will be performing church music of the Spanish Renaissance and also pieces by James McMillan and Kerensa Briggs. Please do come along!

Choristerships

For children aged 7-10 who want to sing at the highest level here at the Metropolitan Cathedral, enhancing the daily worship of the cathedral community, the cathedral provides fully funded professional musical training to enable each chorister to achieve their full musical potential.

Cathedral Record

For adults with high level music making experience and ability interested in auditioning for our pool of Lay Clerks, email music@ metcathedral.org.uk

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pastoral

Pastoral ponderings

by Dominic Redcliffe

Hello from Rome to all of you at home.

At seminary there are certain subjects that are required to be taught – just like specific subjects taught in our primary and high schools at home. One subject is the study of Latin, and the Code of Canon Law states that students should be taught to “understand Latin well.” Despite having an excellent education in Catholic schools in our archdiocese, I arrived at seminary having no knowledge of Latin.

This can be off-putting if you’re in the chapel here and other seminarians around you are confidently responding to parts of the Mass or other liturgies in Latin. Do you pretend you know and mime, or do you ask for help?

Fortunately, I have been learning an introduction to Latin this year- especially with parts of the Mass or anthems sung to honour Our Lady at morning or evening prayer. It’s not only learning the pronunciation of the words, but importantly knowing the meaning of them too. There’s not much point in being able to read the words if their meaning is unknown. Gradually, with a very patient teacher, I am gaining confidence and understanding, and it means I can pray in a new way. This in itself is spiritually refreshing.

With the celebration of Easter comes the sequence that is said or sung before the Gospel Acclamation at Easter Sunday Mass.

This beautiful and joyful text tells us about the Resurrection of Christ and takes us to the moment that Mary Magdalene is the first person to witness Jesus triumphantly raised from the dead. In preparation for Easter, I’ve been learning the sequence in Latin, and looking at a literal English translation, the text proclaims about the immense joy and hope that Christ’s resurrection promises. Phrases such as these have reminded me of this Easter joy: ‘dux vitae mortuus regnat vivus’ ‘the leader of life who was dead reigns alive’ ‘Scimus Christum surrexisse a mortuis vere’ ‘We know Christ truly to have risen from the dead to be alive’

When reading these lines from Latin into English, not only have I been taught about the language of the Church, I have been reminded of that beautiful meeting between the risen Jesus and Mary Magdalene early on that morning.

Reflections on our Archdiocesan Young Adult Group

by Liz Parsons, Director of Pastoral Development A year and a half ago, we set up an Archdiocesan Young Adult group that meets every fortnight in the Pauline book shop in Liverpool City Centre on Tuesday evenings. It was formed thanks to a group of young adults regularly attending events and asking: “When are you going to set something up specifically for young adults?”

Lent retreat (Carmelite Monastery)

I had been fortunate to join a young adult group myself during my 30s. At that stage, I was struggling to be fully part of the Church and didn’t have many friends within the faith. Out of nowhere, there came an invitation from my local parish to join a young adult group. The timing of this invitation could only have been carefully arranged by God. It was at a time in my life when I was seeking something more, and I was fortunate enough to meet people in that group who remain some of my dearest friends and have continued to support me in practicing my faith ever since.

In 2023, on St Therese of Lisieux’s feast day, our new group met for the first time. As time has passed, our little group has expanded and continues to grow, and we’re always open to new members.

On Saturday 3 October, all young adults between the ages 18-35 are

This is the joy of the Resurrection that is offered to us too this Easter.

From Rome, ‘Christus resurrexit!’ – Christ is risen!

Until next time…

Dominic 16

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invited to spend an evening with Archbishop John Sherrington. The day before the 800th anniversary of St Francis of Assisi, we will celebrate Mass at St Philip Neri Church and share a meal together. On 29 November, we will be taking a group of young adults, for three nights, to visit Assisi. We will walk in the footsteps of St Francis and St Clare and visit St Carlo Acutis.

Tuesday night group meeting

Advent Retreat

St Thérèse of Lisieux said: “Holiness consists simply in doing God’s will, and being just what God wants us to be.” We recently had our first Lent retreat with young adults from a range of groups across the archdiocese exploring the very question of what God wants us to be, and this is a topic we will continue to explore over the next year. We have expanded to include faith talks, Catholic Social Action initiatives, and exploring various aspects of spirituality. We began with a small cohort of dedicated members, and with God’s help, we will continue to flourish. If you, or anyone you know, are interested in coming to the evening in October or in joining us for the pilgrimage to Assisi or would like to join our Tuesday group, please email m.mui@rcaol.org.uk for more details.

profile

Fr Peter Ross

By Simon Hart

What is life like for a young priest in the Archdiocese of Liverpool? To mark Good Shepherd Sunday later this month – on 26 April, the Fourth Sunday of Easter – we put that question to Father Peter Ross, one of the diocese’s youngest priests. A Pic columnist during his seminarian years at Oscott, the 31-year-old is now assistant priest at St Wilfrid’s parish in Widnes and enjoying the opportunities – and challenges – that brings.

At a time, he puts it, when “we’re not working with the lapsed anymore because in order to be lapsed, you’ve got to have practised your faith at some point”, he explains that the young people in his group have often “had no Catholic education”.

Rather, they tend to have explored questions of faith on the internet. “A lot of what they see on the internet doesn’t translate to what the Church does so I’ve always tried to meet them where they’re at,” he continues. “I’ve always tried to listen to them in the spirit of synodality and everything I’ve provided has been what they’ve asked for.”

Just what they have asked for might surprise readers of the Pic. “For the large part, it’s things like ‘Can we have more Latin? When are we having Adoration next? When are we doing Confession?

When are we having a talk on Our Lady? I want something on Eastern Orthodoxy.’ Because that’s what they see on Instagram and they want to know more. I suppose it’s the more mystical side of things, fed from the internet. I have to add just how important the Mass is for them as well.”

That leads Fr Peter to quote the Norwegian Bishop Erik Varden who said of young people that they wish “to know the saving power of Christ, the same today, yesterday and always, yet making all things new.” Hence his own efforts to “read the signs of the times with them and meet them where they’re at”.

If enriching, it is just one part of Fr Peter’s work at St Wilfrid’s, a parish that contains four churches along with eight schools.

It is headed by Fr Mark Moran, the parish priest, and Fr Peter is grateful to both him and the local deacon, Paul Rooney, for their support as well as to the parish’s vision group. “There are some really good lay people on there who I work with very closely in order to deliver the mission.”

As for the biggest challenges, he dwells on one thing, in particular.

“I think the thing I found most challenging – and this might come as a surprise to people – is funerals,” he says, explaining that St Wilfrid’s had more than 100 funerals last year, a number matched among diocesan parishes only by St Sylvester’s in Liverpool.

He elaborates: “It’s been a challenge because when it comes to funerals, most of the people you’re working with don’t practise their faith or have no faith at all. This means there can be a divergence in expectation. My understanding of a funeral, or indeed the Church’s understanding, is we’re there to worship God and pray for the repose of that person’s soul, and we’re also trying to console those who remain with the hope of the Resurrection.

And sometimes there’s a real dissonance with that, so one of the biggest learning curves I’ve had as a priest is how to handle that tension, how to navigate it.

“I don’t think we ever gave that enough thought in seminary.”

There will undoubtedly be more lessons to follow but for now, Fr Peter is enjoying helping to shepherd the flock at St Wilfrid’s. “I’ve never been as content in my life as I am now,” he concludes. “At the same time, I’ve never been as challenged as I am now, but it’s in a good way!”

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Catholic life

Walking Pilgrimage of the Month APRIL

Families of Parishes Pilgrimage Walk – Sefton Inland Family 2 This parish is run by Canon Chris Fallon, who is the Director of the Permanent Diaconate, and Fr Lister Tonge, one of the newest ordained priests in the archdiocese, having been ordained in 2024.

Next year, the parish will celebrate 140 years of mission. When you arrive, you may wish to say a prayer for those 140 years and the future of the church, for Canon Chris and the Ministry of Deacons, and Fr Lister and those either newly ordained or in seminary completing their formation.

Distance: 2.2 miles Time: 50 minutes Stop 2: St Gregory the Great, Lydiate This is the first church in the parish of St Catherine of Alexandria, under the pastoral care of Fr Grant Maddock, who is also the Director of the Lourdes Pilgrimage. Each year, over 1,000 pilgrims travel to the shrine of Our Lady in Lourdes, and he was recently made a chaplain to the shrine.

The first church here, St Gregory the Great, was established in 1958, and is one of the two Catholic churches that serve the people of Lydiate.

Just head straight up through Maghull and into Lydiate to reach the church.

Distance: 1.5 miles Time: 34 minutes

Our latest Families of Parishes pilgrimage walk takes us back to Sefton Inland, this time for Family Two. This walk is a long one, so it can easily be split into smaller sections. It starts in Aintree Village, passes through Maghull and Lydiate, and continues on to Aughton, just outside Ormskirk.

Total Distance: 8.8 miles Time: 3hrs 16 minutes Start: Holy Rosary, Aintree Starting off in Aintree Village, we begin our walk at the parish of Holy Rosary. The church is celebrating 70 years of the current church in its location this year. The parish is run by Mgr Philip Inch, who is also the Episcopal Vicar for Pastoral Organisation and Synodal Implementation.

Whilst there, you can pray that we continue to follow the synodal path, guided by the Holy Spirit. Alternatively, if you want to start your walk with Mass, it is celebrated there at 10:30am on a Sunday, or 6pm on Saturday, with midweek options also available.

Stop 1: St George, Maghull The first stop is a two-mile walk to St George in Maghull. Head onto Dunnings Bridge Road, past Switch Island, and continue straight on past the entrances to both the M57 and M58 into Maghull, where you will find St George’s Church.

Saint of the Month

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Stop 3: Our Lady, Lydiate Just a straight walk up Southport Road, will bring you to the oldest and most historic church in this Family of Parishes. It has served the Catholic community for the past 345 years, which predates the restoration of the Catholic hierarchy in England and Wales. The current church was built in 1845. You can keep to the Lourdes theme and say a prayer to Our Lady to ask for her intercession as you head forward in your last big push in this walk.

Distance: 1.5 miles Time: 32 minutes Final Stop: St Mary’s Public Oratory, Aughton The final stop is to St Mary’s Public Oratory in Aughton, just outside Ormskirk. This section of the walk is particularly picturesque, with plenty of greenery and opportunities to pause and take in your surroundings—making it an ideal Care for Creation walk.

The church here has stood since 1822, following the establishment of the mission in 1784. The status of this church was changed following the retirement of the parish priest in 2024, and is now open for public prayer on selected days.

When you arrive, take a moment to reflect on what you have achieved in completing this pilgrimage. For your return journey, the church is located between Town Green and Maghull North train stations, making it easy to travel back to your starting point.

Distance: 3.6 miles Time: 1 hr 20 minutes

Blessed James Bell Born in Warrington, Blessed James Bell was educated at Oxford University. He was then ordained a priest under Queen Mary I’s reign. After the reformation, he continued as an Anglican Minister for 20 years, after which he sought reconciliation with the Catholic Church and continued priestly duties. He promoted the Sacrament of Penance, calling the faithful to receive the Lord’s forgiveness. His life is commemorated on 20 April.

education news

Doing something extra this Lent This Lent, Broughton Hall Catholic High School embraced a different approach inspired by the teachings of Catherine McAuley and the values of the Sisters of Mercy. Rather than focusing on the traditional idea of giving something up, the school introduced a new theme: ‘Don’t Give Something Up – Do Something Extra.’

Staff at Broughton Hall are incredibly proud of how students have embraced these initiatives and look forward to seeing how their projects develop, and just how far can they make their £10 grow.

Lent is a time for reflection, sacrifice, and growth, but this year Broughton Hall encouraged its students to actively do good for others, spreading kindness, generosity and compassion within the community and beyond.

To launch the initiative, Year 9 students designed an advert that promoted the theme across the school. They worked collaboratively to produce creative and thoughtful campaigns that captured the spirit of paying it forward and inspired younger students to get involved.

Each form group was then given £10 and challenged to ‘make it grow’ in support of a charitable cause or project of their choice.

This sparked a wave of entrepreneurial thinking, teamwork and social responsibility, with students exploring innovative ways to multiply their initial funds while making a positive impact.

Alongside these efforts, students took part in random acts of kindness. During the Lenten season, groups of students would tour the school on a Friday, offering staff hot drinks and biscuits: a gesture inspired by Catherine McAuley’s well-known ‘cup of kindness.’ Year 7 students even added a touch of joy by performing an impromptu song as they served refreshments.

Each year group is also planning their own Passion service, providing a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the story of the Passion in a personal and creative way.

Students step into power at St Cuthbert’s Student voice has always been incredibly important in helping to shape school life at St Cuthbert’s Catholic High School, St Helens, and this commitment has recently gained further strength through the re-launch of the school’s student council who have become the new ‘student cabinet.’

The initiative gives students an even stronger voice within the school community and mirrors the structure of the UK government. Students have taken on roles such as prime minister, deputy prime minister and cabinet secretaries responsible for key areas of school life, including environment, sports and recreation, diversity and inclusion, and community and charity.

of kindness, service and contributions to the wider school community.

Members of the cabinet have also represented St Cuthbert’s at the Education for Our Generation event, joining students from other schools to discuss the future of education and the issues that matter most to young people.

The student cabinet will continue to meet throughout the year, working together to develop new ideas that benefit the whole school community.

Each role focuses on developing ideas and initiatives that support the school’s mission and strengthen the community.

The cabinet will be working alongside the already established Year 11 senior team.

Candidates must submit an application explaining why they would be suited to the role before taking part in a campaign period where they present their ideas to fellow students. The whole school then votes, giving every student the opportunity to choose who will represent them. Through this process, students develop confidence, leadership skills and an understanding of democracy in action.

Since its launch, the student cabinet has already begun making a positive contribution to school life. Cabinet members have worked with staff to support the launch of the school’s accolades book, a challenge initiative that celebrates acts

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education news

St Gerard’s Catholic Primary & Nursery praised in latest Ofsted inspection St Gerard’s Catholic Primary & Nursery has been recognised for its exceptional performance in its latest Ofsted inspection, achieving multiple “Strong Standard” judgements under the new framework.

Several areas were rated at this high level, highlighting the school’s continued commitment to excellence despite Ofsted raising the national bar with a tougher “secure fit” model.

The inspection report praises the school for its: • Academic achievement: pupils consistently perform above national averages in reading, writing, and maths • Behaviour and attitudes: pupils are calm, respectful, and highly focused • Curriculum and teaching: a rich, ambitious curriculum delivered through high-quality teaching across all subjects • Inclusion: a deeply supportive environment where disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND thrive • Leadership and safeguarding: strong provision ensuring personal development and safety for all pupils

judgements under this new, more challenging framework is a testament to the excellence we strive for every day.”

St Gerard’s caters for pupils aged two to 11, with before and after-school provision running from 7:30am to 6:00pm, supporting families with flexible childcare alongside outstanding education.

Under the new Ofsted framework, even achieving an “Expected” rating is noteworthy, making St Gerard’s multiple “Strong Standard” judgements particularly impressive.

The full report is available on the Ofsted website.

Headteacher, Mr Landrum, said: “We are incredibly proud of our pupils, staff, and the wider school community. This report reflects the dedication, care, and hard work that goes into every part of school life. Achieving multiple ‘Strong Standard’

St Teresa of Lisieux pupils bring Holy Week to life through whole-school performances Pupils at St Teresa of Lisieux Catholic Primary Academy, part of All Saints Multi Academy Trust, marked Holy Week in a powerful and memorable way with a series of performances retelling the Passion narrative.

The Norris Green-based academy told the story of Jesus’ final days through a series of re-enactments, helping pupils explore each key event.

Each performance began with the proclamation of scripture from John 12:24-25: “Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.”

Across four days, pupils from Years 3 to 6 presented a sequence of performances.

On Monday, Year 3 opened the week by presenting Palm Sunday, recreating Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem with palms, cloaks and joyful acclamations.

Year 4 continued the journey by depicting Holy Monday, exploring the moment Jesus cleared the Temple and sharing a powerful message about justice, respect and integrity.

Year 5 then reflected on Holy Thursday through their portrayal of the Last Supper and the washing of the disciples’ feet, highlighting the importance of service, humility and the Eucharist at the heart of Christian life.

Finally, Year 6 brought the week to a moving conclusion with their presentation of the Passion and Resurrection, leading the school community from the solemnity of Good Friday to the hope and joy of Easter.

Each performance included traditional Lenten hymns, such as ‘Hosanna, Hosanna’ and ‘Give Me Joy in My Heart’.

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The entire school community gathered for each performance, giving pupils of all ages the opportunity to experience and reflect on the meaning of Holy Week in an engaging and accessible way. Every year group was provided with a playscript, ensuring all children played an active role in bringing this important story to life.

Mr Kenneth Bulger, teacher and RE lead at St Teresa of Lisieux Catholic Primary Academy, said: “It was a real privilege to guide the children through Holy Week. Seeing them bring the story of the Passion to life with such thought and care was truly special.”

Mr Paul Ackers, headteacher of St Teresa of Lisieux Catholic Primary Academy, added: “We are so proud of all our pupils for the way they shared the story of Holy Week. It was a moving experience that brought the whole school together and reminded us all of the hope at the heart of Easter.”

education news

Primary school celebrates OPAL Platinum Award for transforming play and promoting sustainable living Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Catholic Primary School has achieved the highly coveted OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) Platinum Award, recognising the exceptional quality of its play provision and its commitment to creating happier, healthier, and more resilient children.

and problem-solve through play. It promotes greater physical activity, boosting health and wellbeing, while encouraging confidence and independence as children create games, build structures, and explore freely.

Headteacher, Kelly Nuttall said: “The achievement of this OPAL platinum award is down to the unwavering hard work of the staff and support from the children, parents, and governors of the school. The impact is that our children have daily access to the natural world and are able to explore it through play as well as strengthening their connection to God’s creations and developing what we hope will be a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship.”

The OPAL lead, Mrs Heston, praised the collaborative spirit: “Our children’s joy in play is at the heart of everything we do.

OPAL has given them freedom, creativity, and confidence. This award belongs to them.”

Ben Tawil, OPAL mentor, commented: “School playtimes are all too often an untapped resource for all the soft skills, wellbeing, resilience, fun and friendship we want for children. At Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Catholic Primary School, OPAL playtimes are optimised to provide rich and varied opportunities so that all children have fantastic play every day.”

The OPAL approach has made a significant impact across the school, strengthening social skills as pupils of all ages interact

OPAL’s success is rooted in sustainable, low-cost, imaginative play. Repurposed and recycled materials show children how everyday items can fuel creativity while fostering simple living and resourcefulness. By reusing materials, caring for outdoor spaces, and reducing waste, pupils are learning meaningful environmental stewardship. This approach closely reflects the Live Simply principles inspired by Laudato Si’.

With OPAL now deeply embedded in school life, Our Lady of Perpetual Succour is committed to continuing its sustainable play journey, enhancing outdoor spaces, promoting child-led exploration, and living out the Catholic mission to care for creation.

Ambition for all On 23 February 2026, staff from across the St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust (SJCMAT) gathered for the annual Trust Conference, united under the theme ‘Ambition for All.’

The event was hosted across two venues, St Francis Xavier’s Catholic Academy and Notre Dame Catholic Academy. The day brought together colleagues from primary, secondary, SEND, pastoral and operational networks to reflect on how the trust can continue to fulfil its mission: ‘Christ is at the centre of everything that we do. We exist to transform children’s lives by providing them with a world-class, Catholic education.’

For the primary school network, the focus was ‘From Implementation to Impact’. Over recent years, the trust has established strong, coherent curricula across its schools. This conference provided an opportunity not only to celebrate that progress, but to deepen its practice so that every child experiences the highest quality of learning.

Expert facilitators, including Andrew Wilkinson and Deb Dando from 2Simple, Emma Hornby and Clare Evans from the St John Vianney English Hub, and Simon Evans from Charanga,

supported teachers in strengthening digital learning, oracy, assessment, and subject expertise. Central to the day was the commitment that every school would identify a practical improvement to embed before Easter, ensuring that ambition translates into action.

At Notre Dame Catholic Academy, staff in secondary education explored the theme ‘Inclusion for the Least, the Last and the Lost.’ SJCMAT is inspired by the Gospel call to place the most vulnerable at the heart of its work, so discussions were centred on inclusive curriculum design, consistent assessment and strategies that support the least advantaged learners.

Across both venues, it was clear to see that the trust’s ambition is rooted in faith. By working together, sharing expertise and remaining steadfast in its mission, SJCMAT continues to ensure that every child entrusted to its schools is known, supported and given the opportunity to flourish.

The conference highlight film is available to watch on the trust’s website: sjcmat.co.uk

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education news

Easter hope in our schools and communities As we enter the holy season of Easter, we are reminded once again of the deep hope and profound joy at the heart of our faith: Christ is risen, alleluia! For our Catholic schools and colleges, Easter is not only a liturgical celebration but a lived experience - rooted in prayer, community, sacrifice, and love.

Pope Leo XIV always greets us with the simple blessing, “Peace be with you all!”, a greeting that captures the heart of the Resurrection and the gift the Risen Lord breathes upon His Church. He also reminds us that “every day can be the beginning of a new life, thanks to God’s generous love,” a message that resonates powerfully with the promise of Easter renewal.

Our schools always ensure that Holy Week is celebrated with reverence and care, helping pupils to journey with the Lord through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, and preparing hearts for the joy of the Resurrection. We are especially grateful to all our schools and colleges for their Lenten witness - and a special mention to everyone who supported CAFOD’s Fast Day and joined the Lenten Walk in solidarity with our sisters and brothers in need.

We are mindful of the many children for whom our schools and colleges provide routine and structure - a sense of safety and belonging that they may not always experience at home or in their neighbourhoods.

As we enter the Easter holidays, please pray for these children: that the light of the Risen Christ will guide and protect them, and that our communities will continue to be places of welcome, dignity, and hope.

A Celebration of Catholic Education: The Diocesan Schools Commissioner Conference

Recently, the diocese played host to the Diocesan Schools Commissioner Conference, which highlighted the many different facets of our shared mission - from the prayers and liturgies so beautifully prepared by our RE teams to the wonderful displays that bring Scripture and tradition to life in our learning communities.

Pope Leo XIV captures this spirit of resilient creativity in Catholic education: “When Catholic schools are guided by the word of Christ, they do not retreat but press forward; they do not raise walls but build bridges. They respond creatively, opening new possibilities for the transmission of knowledge and meaning.”

A particular joy at the conference was the contribution of the Widnes Catholic School Choir, under the leadership of Mrs Pauline McElroy, who led the music at a special Mass at the Cathedral. Our attendees spoke so highly of the city, the cathedral, the reverence of the liturgies, and the children’s choir. Thank you to everyone - staff, pupils, clergy, volunteers, and supporters - who made the event such a success.

Easter proclaims that new life is real and near - that God is at work in every classroom, staffroom, and family, drawing us into hope. Our schools and colleges embody this daily: bringing light where there is uncertainty, community where there is isolation, and love where there is need. As Pope Leo XIV encourages the Church’s educators, this season is a time to “reunite knowledge and meaning, competence and responsibility, faith and life” in service of the whole person - head, heart, and hands.

May this Easter renew our commitment to one another, strengthen our communities, and deepen our trust in God’s promise of life made new.

Wishing all our families, schools, and parishes a blessed and joyful Easter. Christ is risen. He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

Educate Awards announces new judge Educate Awards, the largest education awards in the North West, has bolstered its esteemed judging panel this year with the addition of education expert, Helen Stevenson, also a parishioner of St Charles & St Thomas More, Aigburth.

With a career spanning over 20 years in education, Helen is the co-founder of Satis Education, the sector’s leading executive recruitment organisation, and chief executive officer of Transforming Lives Educational Trust where she is responsible for the growth strategy and governance of the trust.

At the heart of Helen’s work is a commitment to driving educational excellence and empowering leaders to create highperforming organisations that deliver meaningful outcomes for pupils and students.

Commenting on the announcement, Helen said: “I am thrilled to join the Educate Awards’ judging panel and celebrate the achievements of schools, colleges and multi academy trusts across the North West. I look forward to using my experience and passion to recognise the wonderful work taking place across the region.”

Helen’s journey in education began when she relocated back to the North West and retrained as a modern foreign languages teacher, having initially remained in London after graduating from Kings College to work within marketing and PR departments for large corporations such as the Financial Times Group and Associate Newspapers.

During her time as a teacher in Knowsley, Helen became involved in academies and free schools programmes and since 2008 has worked extensively across the multi academy trust (MAT) sector, holding positions within the Department for Education, local authorities and several MATs. In 2017, Helen co-founded Satis Education, a national education consultancy providing expert support to trusts on the recruitment of CEOs, operational leaders, principals, headteachers, and staff at all levels.

However, she returned to her roots in September 2025 and was thrilled to take up the position of chief executive officer at Transforming Lives Educational Trust, which is home to four academies and specialises in forward-thinking, innovative teaching practices.

Throughout her career and alongside her executive leadership roles, Helen has also served as chair of a trust board, local advisory group and an outstanding Catholic sixth form college.

With the addition of Helen, the Educate Awards’ independent judging panel now comprises 15 highly respected, hand-selected individuals, each bringing their own experience and expertise.

Founder of Educate Awards, Kim O’Brien, said: “I am delighted to welcome Helen Stevenson to Educate Awards’ judging panel for 2026.

“Helen brings a wealth of experience from across the education sector, along with a deep understanding of leadership, governance and school improvement. Her insight and passion for supporting schools and trusts to thrive will be invaluable as we shine a spotlight on the outstanding achievements taking place across the North West.”

Marking a milestone fifteenth year, Educate Awards 2026 is supported by its valued associate sponsors: All About Futures, Angel Solutions, Apprenticeships at Liverpool Hope University, CER, CPMM Media Group, Frank Field Education Trust, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Careers Hub, LJMU, LSSP, Portakabin, Satis Education and SENDSCOPE. For more information about the Educate Awards visit educateawards.co.uk

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education news

School community celebrates significant milestone following Ofsted inspection Headteacher of St Mary’s Catholic College, Mr Kevin Maddocks, has welcomed recognition of the school’s high expectations and continued progress following its Ofsted inspection in January 2026.

The secondary school met the expected standard across six evaluation areas, reflecting high-quality education under the new Ofsted framework.

This marks a key milestone for St Mary’s by recognising the significant progress that has been made by the school, together with Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust.

Mr Maddocks, who is a parishioner of St Anne’s in Ormskirk, became headteacher of St Mary’s four years ago. Encouraged and proud of the inspection’s findings, he said: “At St Mary’s Catholic College, we have been on a relentless pursuit of improvement. To be formally recognised is a strong affirmation of the progress we have been working hard to achieve, with the support and dedication of our incredible staff, governors, students, families and the Trust.”

This progress has been driven by strong leadership at all levels, with a shared commitment to ensuring every student receives the best possible education.

Alongside its focus on academic progress, St Mary’s is committed to providing opportunities that develop students’ personal growth, resilience, and confidence.

While achievement outcomes continue to rise, the school acknowledges that the journey is ongoing and it remains ambitious for every student.

He concluded: “This report’s recognition illustrates what can be achieved by working together and, in turn, succeeding together. This belongs to every person who has been part of St Mary’s, including our extraordinary staff, our brilliant pupils, our dedicated families, and the unwavering support of the Trust.

We serve a community with real and varied needs, and this inspection confirms we are getting it right.”

CEO of Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust, Mr Andy Moor, said: “St Mary’s has earned this moment. As a Catholic trust, we believe every child is created with equal dignity and deserves an education that reflects that. St Mary’s lives those values every day, and I am immensely proud of what this community has achieved together.”

The full report can be read on the Ofsted website.

Mr Maddocks added: “We have really strengthened teaching and learning through our ambitious, well-planned curriculum.

Our inspiring teachers are secure in their subject knowledge and benefit from a consistent, whole-school approach to teaching, helping students to develop their understanding and confidence in each subject.

“We have the highest expectations across all aspects of school life, and this is reflected in the calm and caring environment seen across lessons and at social times.”

The school was also praised for its inclusive approach, noting the swift identification of need and the effective support that enables every student to thrive.

A community living simply CAFOD’s Live Simply Award invites Catholic communities to respond to the call to care for our common home and to stand in solidarity with our sisters and brothers around the world. The Bishops of England and Wales encourage all parishes and schools to work towards the award as a meaningful way of protecting this world which God has entrusted to us.

Inspired by Pope Francis and his encyclical Laudato Si’, the award celebrated how pupils are embracing thoughtful living, environmental awareness, and compassion for those who struggle.

After Easter, pupils will be invited to share their projects with the parish community, hoping to inspire parishioners to embrace the same values in their own lives.

The Live Simply Award recognises communities and schools that can demonstrate how they are living: • simply • sustainably with creation • in solidarity with people living in poverty

The award celebrates faith-driven action, helping communities live not only more simply, but more fully.

St Oswald’s Catholic Primary School set out to achieve the Live Simply Award, and they succeeded.

On Friday 13 March, Bishop Tom Neylon visited his home parish to present CAFOD’s Live Simply Award to the pupils and staff of St Oswald’s Catholic Primary School, Padgate, Warrington.

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An interview with...

Anne Quirk, school chaplain at at St John Bosco Arts College This April marks a significant milestone for Anne Quirk as she celebrates 25 years at St John Bosco Arts College.

Anne walked into the school as a learning mentor, but six years into her journey, Sr Agnes, one of the much-loved Salesian Sisters, told her she would make a lovely chaplain.

Since, Anne’s chaplaincy has unfolded through rich experiences, emotional moments, and challenges that have taught her resilience and grace. “I feel blessed to have had the time here at St John Bosco and to have been a part of so many people’s lives over the years,” she reflects.

Anne remembers the doubts she once had about stepping into chaplaincy, but others saw in her what she couldn’t yet see in herself. Today, she is a trusted figure at the heart of the school. “I feel both privileged and humbled to have the trust of the young people who share their stories with me, students who know they can come for a chat and feel loved and supported,” she says.

Over the years, Anne has shaped many of the school’s most treasured traditions including Advent and Lenten services, transition days for new Year 7s, and the annual Passion Play. She strives to be adaptable and honest with her young people, never pretending to have all the answers, but always offering space, compassion, and understanding. Her office and prayer room, filled with cushions and warmth, reflect her belief that chaplaincy must feel like home.

Looking back, Anne is astonished by how quickly time has passed. She loves “seeing the children of some of our former students starting school and remembering what their mums were like when they were here.”

Anne’s visions for the years ahead are rooted firmly in the school’s Salesian spirit. “Young people that come to our school are from many different backgrounds,” she explains, “but I believe chaplaincy brings a new dimension to young people’s lives, and their ever developing and inquiring minds.”

Living the spirit of Lent During this Lenten season, the community of All Hallows Catholic High School came together to support CAFOD, the Catholic Church’s official aid agency for England and Wales.

Through assemblies, students reflected on the importance of sharing what they had, putting their faith into action through acts of charity and supporting those most in need.

This year’s Lent Appeal began with great enthusiasm.

The annual CAFOD fast day and non-uniform day provided a strong start, with individual student donations raising vital funds to support communities living in poverty around the world. In an act of solidarity, a limited menu was offered at break and lunchtime, encouraging pupils to reflect on the daily challenges faced by those less fortunate and to appreciate what they have.

All donations from this year’s appeal were doubled by CAFOD’s partners with the funds raised supporting practical and life-changing projects, including the development of floating gardens in Bangladesh.

These gardens enabled communities affected by severe flooding to grow crops, providing both food and a sustainable source of income. A donation of £48 helped 10 farmers to build and maintain their own floating gardens.

CAFOD highlighted the effects of climate change on developing nations, where extreme flooding had led to the loss of crops, homes and livelihoods, making support from organisations like CAFOD even more vital.

Students were also invited to take part in the CAFOD Big Lent Walk, aiming to walk 200km in 40 days. They were eager to take part, demonstrating commitment, compassion and a strong sense of social responsibility.

Through these collective efforts, the school community truly lived out the Gospel message of love, generosity and service during Lent.

education news

St John Bosco students stage powerful performance of The Passion More than 50 students from St John Bosco Arts College came together through music, dance and drama to perform a contemporary retelling of The Passion Play.

A much-loved event in the school’s calendar, students from Years 7 to 10 participated in this year’s performance, bringing the sacred story to life through a vibrant display of acting, singing and dancing.

2026 marks the thirteenth year of St John Bosco students performing the play and while the story itself remained unchanged, the school’s chaplain, Anne Quirk, and its performing arts department worked together to combine spirituality with creative innovation, delivering a contemporary rendition of The Passion that deeply resonated with the audience.

This year’s performance featured songs from various iconic musicals, including ‘Gethsemane’ from Jesus Christ Superstar, ‘When You Believe’ from The Prince of Egypt, and ‘From Now On’ from The Greatest Showman. All songs were selected to reflect the themes of each scene and deepen students’ connection to the story.

A significant moment in the play was the carrying of the cross, a moving scene that has been a staple of the school’s performance since 2015. For the first time this year, St John Bosco’s Passion Play also included a resurrection cross to represent light and hope, providing a powerful and uplifting conclusion to the performance.

Anne Quirk, writer and director of the school’s Passion Play, said: “I am passionate about The Passion and every year my aim is to bring it to life in a fresh and creative way. I’m extremely grateful for the support and guidance of our amazing performing arts department, which carefully considered the creative concept and how it could be translated on stage.

“And while we may come up with the ideas, it’s the students who really make it happen. They should be extremely proud of this year’s performance which remained rooted in faith whilst staying relevant for our community.”

Mr Darren Gidman, headteacher of St John Bosco Arts College, added: “Congratulations to everyone involved in this year’s Passion Play. Both students and staff worked tirelessly to put together the production which was nothing short of perfect!”

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education news

Pupils present the Festival of Music at Liverpool’s Philharmonic Hall At the end of March, around 250 students from St Mary’s College in Crosby took to the stage of Liverpool’s Philharmonic Hall to present the school’s annual Festival of Music.

This year’s concert also featured a guest appearance from the Great Crosby Catholic Primary School Choir. All students were conducted by St Mary’s director of music, Andrew Byers, supported by his colleague Colin Johnston.

The programme took the audience on a musical journey from Rossini’s ‘William Tell Overture’ to jazz giant Duke Ellington and the theme from Star Wars. Flute soloist, Anna Quint’s stunning rendition of Johannes Donjon’s Offertoire was a particular highlight of the evening. The audience also showed its appreciation for the Clarinet Cocktail’s performance, featuring soloist Michael Neophytou.

Other performances included the College Symphony Orchestra’s ‘Sheherazade’ by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov as well as the theme from Superman. The lower school choir performed a medley of ABBA classics, Great Crosby Primary played a rendition of sports anthem ‘Eye of the Tiger’, and the College Chamber Choir put on a medley of songs from hit musical Wicked.

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Commenting on the concert, Andrew Byers said: “Our annual Phil concert has become one of the most popular St Mary’s traditions and provides our pupils with a wonderful opportunity to showcase their exceptional musical talents in a fabulous setting.

“The concert is the result of many months of hard work and dedication from our pupils - and the teachers and parents who support them - and we pay tribute to the outstanding contribution made by everyone involved, including the pupils of Great Crosby Primary,” he added.

St Mary’s principal, Mike Kennedy, commented: “This was a wonderful musical event and all the performers very much deserved the generous applause they received at the end of the evening.

“It also demonstrated once again that music is a key element of life at St Mary’s, and that it is a wonderful vehicle for developing students beyond the purely academic, and shaping their characters and personalities in new and often surprising ways.”

Join us for our Open Morning:

Tuesday 21st April, 9.30am - 12pm Visit us and discover what makes St. Mary’s Prep so special

0151 924 6302 www.stmarys.ac/prep The independent Catholic school for boys and girls of all faiths aged 0–18

Pic extras

Mums the Word I hope everyone is well and looking forward to our Holy Week services.

At the Vigil Mass on Saturday evening, those adults who are taking the Right of Initiation into the Church are baptised, confirmed, and receive their First Holy Communion. This year, there are quite a number who will be receiving the Sacraments for the first time – and for those who are, we send them our prayers and blessings to help them on their journey and to spread their faith with others who may be thinking about taking that same step.

The Union of Catholic Mothers play an important role in all our parishes, helping our parish priests when required – such as by providing refreshments at parish functions, First Communions, and baptismal programmes, and generally helping keep our churches clean and functional.

The UCM was founded in 1913 to help bring together married women.

It provides fellowship, friendship and spiritual guidance. We are united in prayer. Members do not have to face alone problems in their family or personal life, as we are always there to support them when needed. If there are any ladies who would like to become members of the UCM, please contact your parish priest, who should have details of the president of their foundation.

For our existing members, can I please remind you of our upcoming AGM, which will be held on Saturday 9 May in the Gibberd Room at the Metropolitan Cathedral. We will begin at 12pm with a service, followed by lunch. Our meeting will start at 1pm prompt. I hope you will all attend as it is a very important part of our UCM calendar.

Finally, Easter is a time to reflect on the power of love and forgiveness. We are reminded that no matter how dark the world seems at this time, there is forgiveness and hope for peace.

I wish you all a Holy and Blessed Easter.

Maureen Finnegan, Archdiocesan vice-president

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Over a century of service News from the Liverpool Province of the Knights of St Columba

Reflecting on the Easter season

As we approach the Easter season, the Church invites us to walk once again with Christ through His Passion, Death and Resurrection. For the Knights of St Columba, this period is not only a central moment of the liturgical year but also a powerful reminder of our mission of service, charity, and fraternity.

Lent prepares us through prayer, com discipline and acts of charity. These practices echo the values at the heart of the order.

Across our councils, locally, regionally, and nationally, the Knights support parish life in many quiet but meaningful ways—assisting with Lenten devotions, helping in practical preparations for Holy Week, and reaching out to those most in need. Such acts reflect our commitment to living the faith through action.

Holy Week focuses our hearts on Christ’s sacrifice. On Holy Thursday, we recall His example of humble service; on Good Friday, His willing self offering for the salvation of all. These sacred days challenge us to renew our dedication to defending the faith, supporting our clergy and standing with those who carry heavy burdens.

With the Easter Vigil and Easter Sunday comes the great joy of the Resurrection—light overcoming darkness, hope triumphing over despair. For the KSC, this is a moment of renewal. It encourages councils to strengthen their fraternity, welcome new members, and recommit to the order’s mission within the Church and the wider community.

Inspired by St Columba’s courage and missionary spirit, we are reminded that every act of service—however small—is given greater meaning through the light of the Resurrection.

May this Easter season fill all knights, their families and their parishes with renewed hope, deep peace and a stiffened commitment to witness to Christ in our daily lives.

In remembrance of Pope Francis

As we near the first anniversary of his passing on 21 April last year, we – the Knights of St Columba – remember Pope Francis with deep gratitude for a life lived in service to the Gospel and to the people of God. His papacy was marked by humility, compassion and an unwavering commitment to those on the margins of society. He reminded the world of the power of mercy, the beauty of simplicity and the urgency of caring for our common home.

May his legacy of hope, justice and peace continue to inspire us, and may he rest in the eternal embrace of the Father he served so faithfully.

News from around the Province

• St Patrick’s Day celebration: Council 146 held a hot-pot supper with entertainment on St Patrick’s Day. Staged at St Patrick’s Church hall, it raised funds for the many good causes the council is supporting this year.

• Fundraiser at Liverpool Cricket Club: Council 9 held a buffet with bingo, quiz and a raffle at Liverpool Cricket Club in Aigburth on 20 March. All proceeds went to the Alma Mater fund, the KSC’s national-action project which supports pregnant students as they continue their studies.

If you would like to learn more about the KSC or visit your local council, please email me at Philonline2@btinternet.com.

Phil Woods, Provincial Grand Knight - Province 2 Website: www.ksc.org.uk Facebook: The Knights of St Columba Instagram: @knightsofstcolumba

youth ministry

Help us shape the future of youth ministry in our Church

By Sarah Meeghan, Youth Ministry Co-ordinator

Archbishop John Sherrington has asked for a review of youth ministry across our archdiocese.

There are so many wonderful things happening; the work of Animate (in our schools, the Youth Pilgrimage to Lourdes, and over a thousand young people who take part in the Faith in Action project), the thriving chaplaincy in our secondary schools, our Justice and Peace youth group, our multitude of faithful altar servers, and the Young Adult groups that are beginning to emerge, just to name a few. We need to celebrate the successes and invite more people to participate.

But we also need to identify gaps, obstacles and challenges. There is still so much to be done, so many more opportunities that we can offer to young people to get involved in the life of the Church, to reach out to others in loving service, to get to know Jesus Christ in a more profound way and take their place fully within our community.

In order to explore these areas, we are holding two open meetings for you to come and share your views. We need your creativity, faith, enthusiasm, and desire to help to guide and shape the future of your local Church. Whether you are young or old, lay or ordained, a parent, carer or grandparent, have experience of working with young people or not, we want to hear what you have to say. We particularly welcome teenagers and young people (if you’re under 18 you must be accompanied by an adult). Everyone’s voice is valued.

All of your opinions will be carefully listened to and will feed into a vision of youth ministry that will take us into the next decade, a vision that will enable the young people in our care to flourish in faith and fellowship.

This process will be facilitated by Danny Curtin, co-founder of a Million Minutes and the former President of Young Christian Workers.

Danny has a vast experience of youth work and youth ministry within the Church and now works full time as a facilitator for charities and Church organisations to help them fulfil their mission.

Danny says, “I work across the Church day in, day out and I constantly hear how young people should be our priority. We always say that we want young people to live life to the full and to know that they are cherished by God and the Church. This review shows that the archdiocese is committed to explore how we make that a reality.

Everybody’s voice is crucial.”

I hope by the summer we will have the beginnings of a strong youth synodal council: young people coming together to discuss their hopes, struggles and ideas about the church, informing Archbishop John of their views, and listening to his responses.

Come along to ONE of our open meetings Monday 20 April 7 - 9.30pm St Joseph’s Crow Orchard Rd, Wrightington, Wigan WN6 9PA Tuesday 21 April 7 - 9.30pm St Monica’s Fernhill Road, Bootle, Merseyside, L20 9GA For more information, contact Sarah McGeehan on s.mcgeehan@rcaol.org.uk or 07415099048

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Dialogue and Unity

Mothers’ Union still making its mark, 150 years on

By Ultan Russell, Archdiocesan ecumenical officer

In March, many of us celebrated International Women’s Day and the World Day of Prayer. Therefore, it feels apt to share here the work of the Mothers’ Union, which is the largest women’s organisation in the world with over four million members. Its aims are as follows: • • • • •

Strengthen communities all over the world Help the most disadvantaged at home Shape how we advocate for the rights of families Build supportive, loving relationships Develop our own relationship with God.

The Mothers’ Union in the Church of England’s diocese of Liverpool covers the bulk of our archdiocese. There are also strong and vibrant diocesan branches in those areas of the archdiocese which are within the Anglican dioceses of Blackburn, Manchester and Sodor & Man. The Liverpool Mothers’ Union has 65 branches and over 1,500 members, as well as diocesan members who are not attached to a branch, and ‘indoor’ members who are unable to attend meetings but stay connected and pray for the work undertaken.

The Mothers’ Union celebrates its 150th anniversary this year. It was founded by a vicar’s wife, Mary Sumner, who never would have believed that it would extend to 84 countries, as is the case today.

It has become a key influence in promoting family life, women’s rights, and women’s opportunities for work and education.

Mothers’ Union groups meet regularly, their agenda including prayer, worship, action, and fun. They explore and support projects across the diocese and beyond. To quote a common Mothers’ Union mantra, their work is ‘around the corner and around the world’.

The Mothers’ Union has a long history of working with the Union of Catholic Mothers, Jewish women’s organisations, and secular bodies. In addition, at international level it participates in the work of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, as does the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organisations. It is now open to women and men of any denomination.

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Branches support a range of initiatives, including: • AFIA (‘Away From It All’) – as a diocese, it provides much-needed holidays, weekends away, or days out for families of all ages, shapes and sizes.

• Providing emergency toilet bags for local hospitals and the homeless, and colouring books etc. for use on children’s hospital wards.

• Members-run toddler groups, ‘Messy Church’ sessions, baptismal support, and wedding preparation sessions.

• Knitting/sewing is a popular pastime for our members, providing angel pockets for babies and knitted baby hats, baby blankets and comfort squares for the local premature baby units.

• Prayer shawls for anyone in need, which are sometimes presented to a new bride or at a baptism.

• Welcome bags for university students.

• Linking with prison chaplains to support prisoners.

One major and innovative initiative is the ‘RISE UP’ campaign to raise awareness of domestic abuse across Britain and Ireland. The acronym stands for Respond, Inform, Support, Empower, Unite and Pray. It is the goal of the Mothers’ Union that members and churches work together to help drive change and combat domestic abuse.

In October 2025, the Liverpool Diocesan Mothers’ Union held a well-attended event at Liverpool Cathedral on modern slavery. The next month there was a Eucharist and reflection during the Sixteen Days of Activism Against Gender Violence. More recently, Liverpool’s Mothers’ Union was featured in this year’s Mothering Sunday edition of the BBC’s Songs of Praise.

The picture shows the All Saints Rainford branch, one of the strongest in the country, at the Anglican Cathedral Service that was filmed for Songs of Praise, and it was taken by branch member Tony Foster. Bishop Ruth Worsley is pictured with Caroline Collins, the diocesan president, on her right.

Mary Sumner, the abovementioned founder of the Mothers’ Union, wrote the following prayer in 1876: ‘All this day, O Lord, let me touch as many lives as possible for thee; and every life I touch, do thou by thy spirit quicken, whether through the word I speak, the prayer I breathe, or the life I live.’

Keeping you up-to-date with all the news from around the archdiocese online at:

www.catholicpic.co.uk You can follow us on social media at: @PicCatholic Plus you can subscribe to the Pic Postal subscriptions are available as follows: • £9.50 for 3 issues (3 month subscription) • £19 for 6 issues (6 month subscription) • £37.50 for 12 issues (annual subscription)

POSTAL: To take out a postal subscription please email enquiries@cpmmmedia.com or call 0151 709 7567 DIGITAL: You can also subscribe to a digital version on the Pic by emailing enquiries@cpmmmedia.com or call 0151 709 7567

Loving God, In this Lenten season, we remember the deep love shown through Jesus, His sacrifice, His humility, and His gift of grace for us all.

As we look toward Easter and the promise of hope, fill our hearts with renewed faith and trust in Your goodness.

Help us to carry that love into our daily lives, not only in words but in quiet acts of kindness, patience, and self-giving.

Teach us to see others as You see them, and to serve with open hearts, even when it is difficult.

May our small sacrifices reflect Your great love, and draw us closer to You each day, as we journey toward the joy and new life of Easter.

Amen.

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

stjohnboscoartscollege.com