From the Archbishop’s Desk
On the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, I travelled to Rome to receive the pallium from Pope Leo XIV. It was to be bestowed on 54 Metropolitan Archbishops who had been appointed during the last year. Archbishop Emeritus Malcolm accompanied me with a number of priests, guests and friends from other parts of the country.
The pallium is a sign of the unity of the Church, as each Archbishop takes an oath of fidelity and then kneels in front of the Holy Father to receive the pallium. The pallium is a woollen woven band with six crosses which is placed over his shoulders whenever the Archbishop celebrates Mass in the Metropolitan Area of Liverpool. The pallium also signifies the yoke of Christ the Good Shepherd who is the model for the Archbishop and Bishops.
On the Sunday evening, a reception was hosted by the Venerable English College. It was an enjoyable Liverpool gathering which included Archbishop Paul Gallagher, Archbishop Emeritus Malcolm, Canon Philip Gillespie, Mgr. Peter Fleetwood, seminarians and guests. In spite of the exhausting heat of 37 degrees, a most enjoyable evening was celebrated by all.
On the Monday, I celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving at the Basilica of St. Paul’s Outside the Walls. We venerated the tomb of St. Paul and prayed for the mission of the Church. We then enjoyed a warm welcome and generous hospitality at the Beda College. Thank you to Canon Philip Gillespie for his generosity. I look forward to welcoming him back to the archdiocese and the Isle of Man.
I have also celebrated a number of confirmations across the diocese this month. They are an opportunity to remind the young people that they are called by name by Jesus, called to the community of the Church and called to serve one another. I am looking forward to the Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes at the end of the month, when we will see the energy and love of the young people serving others. It is an opportunity to bring to Our Blessed Lady at the Grotto all our prayers and needs.
This year, we celebrate the recognition of the miraculous healing of Jack Traynor which will make the pilgrimage a very special occasion. I assure you of my prayers for the archdiocese and will especially ask the help of Our Lady and St. Bernadette for those people who are sick.
Archbishop John Sherrington Archbishop of Liverpool
Monthly prayer intentions
Editor Harriet Anwyl
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Contents:
4 Main Feature Liverpool Hope honours Monsignor John
7 Sunday Reflections
8 From the Archives “My songs are all sung” Count John McCormack
9 News News from around the archdiocese
13 Profile Father Jino Arikkatt
Copy deadline September 2025 - Monday 18 August
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Publisher
‘It’s a nice thing to happen and it gives me an opportunity to look at my priesthood as a whole.’
Liverpool Hope honours Monsignor
John
Ahead of his retirement as a priest this month, Monsignor John Devine has received an honorary doctorate from Liverpool Hope University.
by Simon Hart
‘The icing on the cake of retirement.’ That is how Monsignor John Devine summed up events of Wednesday 23 July when he received an honorary doctorate from Liverpool Hope University.
Mgr John will officially retire as parish priest on the Isle of Man at the end of August and the honour he collected at Liverpool Cathedral was recognition of not just his contribution to Hope – where he served as Pro-chancellor and Chair of Governing Council from 2008-17 before continuing as Chair of the Board of Regents until 2024 – but of a broader impact across the 52 years of his priesthood.
To quote the graduation ceremony programme, here is “a humble leader, known for his faith, community spirit, and lifelong commitment to social justice and education.”
‘It’s a nice thing to happen and it gives me an opportunity to look at my priesthood as a whole,’ says the 77-year-old himself, who received his honorary doctorate alongside leading women’s football coach and Hope alumna Emma Hayes.
As Father Peter McGrail noted during the conferment ceremony, Mgr John grew up just down the road from the future Liverpool Hope University in Christ the King Parish. Indeed, he has an early memory of his father, also John, lifting him up to look beyond the
sandstone walls on Taggart Avenue and see the original Church of England teacher training college of St Katharine’s College, the oldest building on the site today.
‘We used to walk along Taggart Avenue on the way to Calderstones Park on a Sunday afternoon. I remember my dad picking me up on his shoulders and seeing those distinctive dormer windows of St Katharine’s.’
Hence he knows the history of the place as well as anyone. There is a sense of pride as he cites the statistic that it’s “number 10 in the country for the ratio
of doctoral members of staff.” He relates the growth of Hope - born out of the merging of St Katharine’s two Catholic teacher-training colleges, the 1960s-built Christ’s College over the road, and Notre Dame College, based at Mount Pleasant – interspersed with family connections.
His mother Maureen studied at Notre Dame, as did his sister Mary, while his niece Celia – among his guests at the graduation ceremony – was a student at Hope. Even Hope’s creative campus on the site of the old SFX College has a Devine link as ‘my dad went there as a kid to the Jesuits’.
On Mgr John’s time as Pro-chancellor, Fr Peter McGrail told those gathered at Liverpool Cathedral that ‘he brought to the role not only a wealth of experience of working ecumenically but also a unique combination of concern for the student’s intellectual development and the heart of a pastor.’ This extended to him urging each new intake of undergraduates to ‘get into the habit of reading a broadsheet newspaper and to phone home!’.
As for the ‘long, varied and rich life of priestly ministry’ that Fr Peter spoke of, this began with an eight-year posting with the Skelmersdale team ministry, followed by nine years in Peru – the first five with the Liverpool Archdiocesan Missionary Project (LAMP), when he first began writing for Catholic Pic, and then four more as the first English head of the US-run Missionary Society of St James, based in Lima.
Mgr John recalls that his time in Peru ‘put everything into much sharper focus. You didn’t have to think about what your
role was. It was staring you in the face because there was so much poverty, so much suffering on an industrial scale, and with that came a sense that you’re not in charge and never will be. And people who are poor have a much more sharply focused insight into the Gospel. When we read the Scriptures, we tend to react as if Jesus’s miracles are a metaphor for something. But for the poor people of Peru, he’s on their side.’
In the 1990s, Mgr John was the final director of St Joseph’s College, Upholland and also chaired the editorial board of the Catholic Pic. He was a made a prelate of honour by Pope John Paul II in 1992 and has worn many other hats since – including, from 2000, the role of Churches’ Officer for the northwest of England, based at the North West Development Agency, reporting on faith community engagement in the
public realm to senior Church leaders of all denominations. This earned him, in 2011, an OBE for services to interfaith relations. He has also received the Archbishop Derek Worlock and Bishop David Sheppard award for service to the Churches of Merseyside.
After serving as parish priest at St Benedict’s and St Mary’s in Warrington, he moved in 2015 to the Isle of Man. There he has been parish priest of St Mary of the Isle, Douglas; St Anthony’s, Onchan; and St Joseph’s, Willaston, in addition to five years as the Archdiocesan Episcopal Vicar for Finance.
‘I’ve discovered in life nothing is ever wasted,’ he reflects of his decade on the Isle of Man. ‘Your previous experiences, even if you’re not aware of them actually prepare you for what’s demanded of you later in indirect ways.’
JD with longtime friends Gaye & Mike Duffey, nephew Bernard, sister Angela, niece Celia and nephew’s wife Aileen
JD (and another recipient Emma Hayes) with Hope Uni Management Team including Chancellor & Vice Chancellor
In 2023 he oversaw the process of St Mary’s gaining its co-cathedral status, thus strengthening the ties with Liverpool. And his ability to make connections has helped him work closely with civic bodies too, as illustrated by the invitation he received to be chaplain to two different mayors of Douglas, a role traditionally held by an Anglican cleric. ‘Having worked with civic authorities and central government on public-policy issues relating to faith communities, I found it easy to form relations with people who aren’t Catholics and don’t go to church necessarily,’ he says. ‘On the island, we take ecumenical cooperation for granted and I’ve had close relationships with the Church leaders of all the different denominations.
‘It’s a busy place with a lot of diversity, with people from all over the world. I’m used to working with people from a different culture and that prepares you for the fact people do things differently and think differently.’
His Liverpool Hope connections helped when, together with the Albert Gubay Foundation, he helped set up grants for disadvantaged Manx students to study at the university – an initiative sadly ended by the Covid pandemic. And his deeprooted interest in education extended to him helping the local St Mary’s Primary School flourish once more.
It was at St Mary’s Cathedral that his ‘strawberries and fizz’ farewell party took place on Sunday 20 July, three days prior to the Liverpool Hope graduation event. His actual departure date from the Isle of Man comes on 31 August, when he will board a ferry back to Liverpool with Scamp, his Bedlington terrier.
He is looking forward to more time with his beloved books and motorbike, though there is much he will miss – not least the Isle of Man’s scenery. ‘Even if it’s chucking down with rain, it’s fantastic. Niarbyl is a wonderful little bay on the west coast. On a clear day you can see the Mountains of Mourne, where my grandmother came from. You can climb up and see Ireland, Scotland, Cumbria –and even, on a clear day, North Wales.’ Fitting words from a man with a gift for seeing the bigger picture.
JD with niece Celia & sister Angela
JD just gowned on arrival at Hope Uni on 23 July
On a liturgical note
Canon Philip Gillespie
These are slightly quieter weeks in the lives of our parishes. The schools are on their summer break, the Archdiocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes is over, and many parish and pastoral area meetings are in abeyance until the September ‘putting back into gear’.
Yet sacramentally all is still busy with marriages to be celebrated, funerals if called upon, and perhaps Baptisms also. Visits to the sick and to hospitals continue, along with Sunday and weekday Masses. The round of parish requirements may reduce over these weeks, but it never comes to a complete standstill, so a word of thanks should go to all those who ensure that in our parishes the telephones will still be answered, the sick visited and those seeking the Sacraments will be catechised, prayed with and welcomed.
For those who are moving to new parish appointments, new jobs or new schools and universities, August is also the moment of the ‘deep breath’ before launching into fresh challenges and embracing fresh opportunities. So, as the Italians say, ‘Forza’ – be strong!
In the middle of the month, on Friday 15th, we keep the Solemnity of the Assumption and on this Holy Day our thoughts are centred not only on the singular privilege given to Our
Blessed Lady of being Mother of the Word made Flesh (the ‘Theotokos’ or Bearer of God) but also upon the call to each and every one of us to live out Mary’s song of praise, her Magnificat, in our daily lives: ‘The Almighty has done great things for us and Holy is His Name.’
The preface of the Eucharistic Prayer on this feast speaks clearly of the important position of Mary in our own spiritual journey , our living-out of the Christian vocation we have all received in Baptism:
‘For today the virgin Mother of God was assumed into heaven as the beginning and image of your Church’s coming to perfection, and a sign of sure hope and comfort to your pilgrim people.’
We are all members of that ‘pilgrim people’ and in our journeying and learning each day we ask that the prayer and example of Mary, Mother of the Lord, may assist us – that we may always Serve the Lord with gladness.
I will end with the earliest-known prayer to the ‘Theotokos’ or Bearer of God: ‘Beneath your compassion, We take refuge, O Mother of God: do not despise our petitions in time of trouble, but rescue us from dangers, only pure, only blessed one.’
Sunday thoughts Mgr John Devine OBE
Pope Pius XII, in his 1957 encyclical letter Fidei Donum, called on bishops to share their surplus priests with the churches in Latin America and Africa. In 1961, US president Dwight D Eisenhower warned against the expanding US industrialmilitary complex which would keep the country on a permanent war-footing.
Cardinal Richard Cushing of Boston responded to the Pope’s call in a generous and big-hearted way. He established the Missionary Society of Saint James the Apostle. The US military, meanwhile, became the world’s peacekeeper.
Originally for Boston priests, the Society of St James extended its arms to welcome diocesan priests from across the Englishspeaking world. When Archbishop Derek Worlock established the Liverpool Archdiocesan Missionary Project (LAMP) in the 1970s, there were already individual Liverpool priests who had responded to the call. LAMP began a partnership with the Archdiocese of Boston with a commitment to maintain a total of six priests with the Society of St James. Volunteer fundraisers throughout the US enabled the society to maintain an amazing infrastructure.
The society built is own language school from scratch in Cieneguilla, about 20 miles outside Lima. Then with typically nononsense North American determination, they abandoned it to build a new one in Lima itself. Money was no object. In the 1980s the Society of St James had priests
from Australia, New Zealand, England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Canada and the US working in Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador. In my time as coordinator, there were 40 priests in Peru alone. While Liverpool raised funds for its six priests just once a year, the bulk of financial support came from the pockets of US parishioners.
How things have changed. There is a shortage of priests in the developing world and a generation of generous US Catholics have died. The Society of St James has shrunk to ten members.
We cannot take for granted the unquestioning generosity of our cousins across the Atlantic. As the US questions its commitment to NATO, the Society of St James also counts the cost. With the end of the Cold War, Europe let the North American military-industrial complex do the heavy lifting. The ‘peace dividend’ allowed the UK to divert its military budget to the ever-expanding NHS and social welfare system. When the NHS was established in 1948, life expectancy was 66 for men and 70 for women. Today it is 79 for men and 83 for women – with all the hip replacements, bypass surgery, hearing aids, and dementia care that follows. With growing threats from Russia, where will the extra money for defence be found? Cuts to health and social welfare or higher taxes? What is the Christian response?
Sent out to proclaim
Way back in the late 1970s and early 80s I was part of a large prayer group that used to meet in Lowe House in St Helens. Over a hundred young people met every week and they were taught and encouraged to really take up the Gospel and follow Jesus. One week we decided as a group that we would go out on the streets of St Helens and tell people about Jesus.
We did lots of preparation about how to share our faith. Leaflets were produced and eventually the day came for us to go out. I travelled down from the seminary for the day with a close friend of mine. We were excited and anxious at the same time. The guitars were playing and we sang and praised God, and then some of us would go and talk to the crowd who had gathered to listen.
It was quite an extraordinary day. While not everyone was polite, most people took leaflets and a significant number either found their faith rekindled or wanted to know more.
In Luke’s Gospel, we are told that Jesus appointed 72 and sent them out to the places He himself would be visiting. That is a good description of our Christian role. We are to prepare the ground, but it is Jesus Himself who comes to plant the seed of faith.
Jesus then goes on to give instructions to his disciples. It is a hard task to undertake with very few really committed to it. In spite of the message of truth, love, compassion and justice that we bring, we might not be received with open arms. Our message will be seen as threatening. It may be distorted and misunderstood.
We are called to travel light. It may be emotional stuff we carry that stops us being free. The core of what we bring is peace. Peace, shalom, is much more than an absence of violence. It is a deep inner harmony with oneself, with others, with one’s environment, with God.
We could hardly bring a greater gift to others than this inner peace. It is the heart of our Christian message: faith, hope and love are the keys to peace. Bringing healing and wholeness into the lives of individuals and communities is the essence of the Kingdom and at the heart of Jesus’ work and that of His followers. The sign of that wholeness is inner peace. Today, it is no different. Like those early disciples we are called to proclaim the Kingdom of God so let’s pray for the courage to do that
Father Chris Thomas
“My songs are all sung” Count John McCormack
by Neil Sayer, Archdiocesan Archivist
Music for charitable purposes didn’t, of course, start with Live Aid, the intercontinental festival to raise funds for famine relief that recently marked its 40th anniversary. Over 50 years earlier, our Metropolitan Cathedral had its own charity record and gala performance.
John McCormack was, in 1932, at the height of his fame as a tenor. His appearances in opera and films, and recordings of popular songs, had made him wealthy and famous. He had houses in London, Ireland and Hollywood. Some of his wealth he had distributed for charitable purposes; he also used his singing talent to support noble causes. According to his wife, “From the beginning of his success John could never say “no” to a request to sing in aid of a hospital, church, or school.” Even after being awarded three Papal knighthoods, in 1928 “he was genuinely surprised when he was informed that he had been created a Papal Count (hereditary) in recognition of his service to Catholic charities.”
Born in Athlone, in the heart of Ireland, on 14 June 1884, he toured the world but often returned to the country of his birth, and was also, according to newspaper reports, given a warm welcome whenever he performed in Liverpool.
It isn’t quite clear how Count John McCormack came to be involved with the Cathedral. He knew Archbishop Downey, and would certainly have come to know of the proposed Cathedral, whose fundraising activities included signed portraits of the archbishop and branded tea and cigarettes. It seems that as early as 1930, soon after the announcement of the proposal for a new Cathedral, the archbishop had persuaded Count McCormack to promise to make a recording to boost the coffers of the building fund. Contributions came in from various writers and composers of hymns for use in the new Cathedral, and the organising committee even approached Sir Edward Elgar to see if he would compose something (he declined.)
Count McCormack initiated his own search for a hymn that would suit his voice, and he alighted, perhaps unsurprisingly, on a composition by his first singing teacher, Vincent O’Brien, who was also the organist at Dublin Cathedral. Words for this “Hymn to Christ the King” were supplied by the American Jesuit author Fr Francis P Donnelly, formerly Chaplain at Alcatraz Prison. McCormack went into the recording studio at Kingsway Hall, London in May 1932 where he was backed by a male choir and Herbert Dawson’s organ accompaniment. A single-sided record was produced by The Gramophone Company (HMV), and they were sold for 6 shillings each.
The debut live performance of this hymn was in Liverpool on 20 September 1932, at a Concert given in aid of the Cathedral Fund. According to Archbishop Downey, who was able to say a few words at the interval, “Every available seat in the Philharmonic Hall was occupied”, and in an early instance of dynamic pricing, “late applicants were offering as much as £2 for a seat anywhere in the Hall.” The audience of over 2,500 people was enthusiastic and the Concert was a great success. The Italian operatic arias were all very well, but most popular were “the lilting Irish airs and folk songs of which the Count is so admirable an interpreter.” An auction of the record “No. 1”, signed by Count McCormack and Archbishop Downey, raised £100, the winner being the building contractor of the Cathedral, C J Doyle. An overall profit of £740 was reported.
Count John McCormack died 80 years ago next month, on 16 September 1945. Shortly after his death, a biography written by his widow was published. Lily McCormack wrote of discovering a memorandum book in which her husband had written “Now, like the old Irish Minstrels, I have hung up my harp because my songs are all sung.”
The record he made for the new Cathedral was reported to be selling well in the weeks immediately after its release, in autumn 1932. “The sales”, according to the Catholic Herald, “are exceeding all expectations.” In the first two weeks, 1,200 records were sold, and it was proving especially popular in Scotland and Ireland, though “orders have been received from many foreign countries, including America, Australia, and the West Indies.” Clearly that doesn’t make it a million-seller on the scale of “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” but the world was different then. The need for charity, though, remains the same.
John McCormack (behind chair) with the choir and technicians at the recording studio for the “Hymn to Christ the King”, 1932
Record of “Hymn to Christ the King”, signed by the Archbishop and the Count [photo credit Neil Sayer]
Bust of a young Count John McCormack, Athlone, sculpted by Seamus Murphy [photo credit Neil Sayer]
News diary
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Archbishop John Sherrington Receives Pallium from Pope Leo XIV
Archbishop John Sherrington has received the pallium from Pope Leo XIV during a special Mass in St Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City, on the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul (29 June).
The pallium – a white woollen band worn around the shoulders –is a powerful symbol of the archbishop’s pastoral responsibility and communion with the Holy Father, the Bishop of Rome, and the wider universal Church. It is given to metropolitan archbishops within their first year of office, during a liturgy rich in significance and tradition.
This year’s Pallium Mass took place above the tomb of St Peter in St. Peter’s Basilica, with Archbishop John joining other newly appointed archbishops from around the world. The celebration was presided over by Pope Leo XIV, in what was one of his first major liturgies as Pope, having succeeded Pope Francis earlier this year.
As part of the tradition, the wool used to make the pallia was taken from lambs blessed by Pope Francis on the Feast of St Agnes (21 January). The reception of the pallium is a sign of the Archbishop’s ministry as a shepherd in communion with the Successor of Peter, and a witness to the faith passed down from the apostles to the Church in Merseyside and beyond.
Please continue to pray for Archbishop John as he begins his ministry among us.
St Francis of Assisi Church and School Mark Special Milestones
The parish of St Francis of Assisi in Skelmersdale came together to mark two significant anniversaries with a joint celebration of Mass. The church marked its 50th anniversary, while the school celebrated its 20th anniversary.
The Mass was celebrated by Bishop Tom Neylon, who previously served as a priest in the town. In his homily, he fondly reflected on his time in Skelmersdale and shared heartfelt memories of the parish and community.
He was joined by Parish Priest Fr Kenny Hyde and several clergy who had served in the town, including Fr Michael Thompson, Fr Ian O’Shea, Mgr John Devine, Mgr Tony O’Brien, and Area Dean Fr Phil Gregory.
As part of the celebrations, the parish held a prayer card design competition with pupils from the school. Two winning designs—by George Niblock and Bridget Ward—were printed and shared with all in attendance at the Mass.
Fr Kenny Hyde said, “It’s been a joy to mark this double celebration with the whole community. Our church has stood as a place of worship and welcome for 50 years, and our school has helped form the hearts and minds of children for two decades. We look forward with hope and gratitude.”
A spokesperson from the school added, “We’re proud to be part of a parish where faith and learning go hand in hand. Celebrating 20 years alongside the church’s golden jubilee has been a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our shared journey and community spirit.”
Great Crosby teacher meets Pope Leo during Jubilee Pilgrimage
Charlotte Barrett, a newly qualified teacher at Great Crosby Catholic Primary School, was honoured to be part of a remarkable Jubilee pilgrimage to Rome, culminating in a private audience with Pope Leo XIV in the Clementine Hall at the Vatican on Saturday, 5 July.
Charlotte joined a delegation of early career teachers (ECTs) from across England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland for this special pilgrimage, organised as part of the Church’s Jubilee Year celebrations – a year especially focused on the theological virtue of hope.
Pope Leo welcomed the group warmly and spoke of the importance of pilgrimage, faith, and the vital role of Catholic educators.
In his address, Pope Leo reminded the group of the spiritual importance of stepping away from daily life to encounter God more deeply. He urged all present—especially the young teachers—to listen prayerfully to the voice of God speaking within their hearts.
“Use this opportunity for listening, for prayer,” the Pope said, “so that you may hear more clearly God’s voice calling you deep within your hearts.”
Speaking directly to the teachers, the Holy Father emphasised the responsibility they carry in the formation of future generations:
“They will look up to you as models: models in life, models of faith. They’ll look to you particularly as to how you teach and how you live. I hope that each day, you will nurture your relationship with Christ, who gives us the pattern of all authentic teaching.”
Charlotte described the experience as “surreal, almost ethereal.” “Before the pilgrimage, I asked my Year 5 class what they’d like me to ask Pope Leo. I managed to ask him, ‘When are you scheduled to come to England?’ Smiling, he remained diplomatic and said, ‘No date as of yet, but I will be.”
She added “At Great Crosby, our mission statement is ‘that they may have life and have it to the full.’ The encounter was fulfilling, and we left with renewed hope and enthusiasm to nurture faith in our pupils.”
As Pope Leo concluded in his blessing: “We are all pilgrims, and we are always pilgrims… with the help of the Lord, the intercession of the saints, and by encouraging one another, you can be certain that… the experience of this pilgrimage will continue to bear fruit throughout your lives.”
Jack Traynor Prayer Card Competition
The Archdiocese of Liverpool is delighted to announce George McGowan, a Year 3 pupil from St Austin’s Catholic Primary School in Garston as the winner of the Jack Traynor prayer card competition.
The competition was launched earlier this year to honour the legacy of Jack Traynor, a Liverpool man whose healing at Lourdes in 1923 was officially recognised as the 71st miracle of Lourdes in December 2024. Jack’s story remains a source of great inspiration for the archdiocese, and the competition invited primary school children to reflect on his life and faith through artwork and prayer.
Over 200 entries were received from primary schools across the archdiocese, each telling the remarkable story of Jack Traynor in a creative and prayerful way. The difficult task of choosing the winning design was given to Archbishop John Sherrington, who was installed as the tenth Archbishop of Liverpool in May.
In a special message to the children, Archbishop Sherrington said: “It was a very hard choice as we received so many wonderful pieces of art showing the story of Jack Traynor. I chose George’s entry because we can see Our Lady, who through Jesus asked for him to be healed; the cross that Jack carried throughout his sickness for so many years, and the healing waters of Lourdes. Then we see him well, pushing his own wheelchair, and all the colours celebrating the life he now had, healed from his sickness.”
The Archbishop added that he hoped George’s prayer card would help others pray to Our Lady, “because she’s our mother –and as our mother, we can always ask her for help.”
In an amazing coincidence, it was later discovered that Jack Traynor’s own grandchildren once attended St Austin’s, making this year’s winner all the more meaningful.
Officers from the archdiocese central office visited St Austin’s for a special school assembly, where they presented George with a voucher, and a donation to a charity of his choice, as well as giving every pupil one of George’s winning prayer cards. George picked Alder Hey Children’s Hospital as his chosen charity, further reflecting the spirit of compassion inspired by Jack Traynor’s story.
Colette Hickey, Headteacher of St Austin’s Catholic Primary School, said: “We are incredibly proud of George and thrilled that his artwork has been chosen. Our children really engaged with Jack Traynor’s story and reflected deeply on its meaning. It’s wonderful for our school community to be part of this celebration and we’re all very proud of George’s beautiful design.”
Archbishop John will be leading the 102nd Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes in July, where Jack Traynor’s story continues to be told and honoured.
He encouraged the children: “I hope one day you will go to Lourdes, you will work with the sick, you’ll love the sick, and perhaps Our Lady will call you into whatever your vocation will be.”
Congratulations once again to George, and thank you to every school and pupil who took part in this very special competition.
Ruby Anniversary Celebrations for Fr Chris Thomas
On 14 July, Fr Chris Thomas marked the Ruby Anniversary of his ordination—40 years of devoted priestly service. The date, rich in historical significance, coincided with Bastille Day, the 40th anniversary of Live Aid, the centenary of the parish of St Teresa of Avila in Devon Street, St Helens, and the 60th anniversary of the current church building.
Fr Chris began his ministry at St Austin’s, Thatto Heath, before taking on chaplaincy roles—first to the youth of St Helens, then later at Liverpool University. He went on to serve as parish priest in Southport and at St Helen’s Church in Sefton, coordinated the Sandymount Retreat Centre, and even partnered in mission with Fr Brendan Rice.
The anniversary Mass was celebrated at the Irenaeus Centre in Waterloo, Liverpool, where Fr Chris continues his mission: serving the poor and vulnerable, nurturing the spiritual life of the faithful, and helping people encounter God through scripture, reflection, and prayer. He is a prolific author, an inspiring retreat leader, and a familiar voice to readers of The Pic through his regular column. During lockdown and beyond, Fr Chris embraced modern technology to livestream events from Irenaeus, ensuring spiritual connection and access for all.
The archdiocese celebrates this milestone of faithful service. Ad Multos Annos! p01-17_covers 02/09/2022 15:32 Page 11
Diaconate Ordination: An Extraordinary Day
By Dan Howarth
With all thanks and praise to God, I was ordained to the diaconate on 18 June in the Basilica of St Paul Outside the Wall, in Rome.
Whilst we are told, rightly so, that formation is lifelong, this occasion brought an end to my three years at the Pontifical College of St Bede (The Beda), and my formal completion of a bachelor’s degree in theology. I still have another year in Rome as I head towards my priestly ordination. But the 18 June gave me some time afterwards to reflect on my journey and everything that happened.
Archbishop Emeritus Malcolm accepted me for formation, and I had met him a few times prior, namely in Lourdes, so the fact that he was to preside at the ordination was a true honour and joy for me. Through my formation, I have felt his fatherly presence, support, and encouragement, and it wasn’t lost on me, seeing a slight smile as I presented myself to him at the sanctuary.
Nine others were ordained that day, and all went smoothly. I was incredibly lucky to have many faces from different personal worlds present to support me. From old and new friends, friends from London and Bath, former colleagues, and my mother and niece (no doubt my Dad also had a good view from the skies). As the opening procession turned to head up the aisle, there was also a sea of faces from the Liverpool Hospitalitae and Healthcare team, whom I have worked alongside on our yearly pilgrimage to Lourdes. Their waving and silent cheers assured me that, despite being in blistering Roman heat, I was on that day indeed, home.
All ordinands got to choose two saints to be included in the litany of saints. This is sung by all as I lay prostrate before the alter, a sign of humility and service before the Lord. This practice dates back to early Jewish ordinations. The first saint I chose was St Theresa of Calcutta, Mother Theresa. I have always been hooked on the corporal works of Mercy, something which she promoted in her ministry. Mother Theresa inspired me to nurse in various charitable roles in low-income countries. The poor, the lonely, and the outcast have always been deep in my heart and ministry, and as I start my diaconal service, I thought her intercession would be vital. The second was a ‘local lad’, Blessed James Bell. One of the English Martyrs from Warrington (I, too, am from Warrington). The parish I live in is the parish of Blessed James Bell, and that of Fr Canon Dave Heywood and Deacon Tony Kerrigan (both also
attended the service), who have shown unwavering support to me during formation, and like many of our Liverpool clergy, I would have been lost without them. The parishioners welcomed me and actively sought to get to know me; they have been so kind that, with the intercession of a former priest of Warrington and the connection to the people of that parish, I was moved to hear his name.
Speaking with the others ordained that day, talk got to ‘which bit felt the most emotional?’. Nerves probably blocked a lot of feelings that day, but the moment which I recall being most significant and caused me to shed a tear was receiving the book of the Gospels. I think this was in part due to the service of the deacon. I could now proclaim the Gospel, the words from the Word. It’s rather a considerable new task. There is also something beautiful about Archbishop Malcolm passing the book of the Gospel on to me, in light of his retirement. The very many times that he has proclaimed the Gospel in Liverpool and beyond, and somehow, with God’s help, he is asking me to do the same thing. The day concluded with a buffet lunch and drinks event in the gardens of the Beda – the college is located across the road from the basilica. This would also be the final lunch in the college, which I would share with the rector, Fr Canon Phillip Gillespie. He too has been a father figure to me in the past three years. And getting to this stage in my formation would have been a lot trickier had it not been for him, his love and his guidance.
My summer will be one of putting this new service into practice. A four-week placement in Kirkby at St Joseph and St Laurence parish, and again as a nurse on the Archdiocese Pilgrimage to Lourdes with the Healthcare team. Lourdes was the place where I felt called to become a Catholic when I was 15 years old, and Our Lady has always seen me through some rocky patches, not just in these past three years but beyond. It will be my delight to go and thank her in the town where she called me to her son, in person. As I grow as a deacon and, with God’s grace a priest, be assured of my prayers across the archdiocese. Jesus the Good Shepherd, his mother Our Lady, the Holy Scriptures, and prayer have strengthened me in times of doubt or worry, and still, I would be appreciative if you could also pray for me and my newly ordained deacon brothers from the Beda.
With many blessings and in peace and love.
Father Jino Arikkatt MCBS
Liverpool ‘homecoming’ for priest from Kerala
By Simon Hart
Father Jino Arikkatt was born more than 5,000 miles from Liverpool in the town of Chalakudy in the Indian state of Kerala. Yet when he embarked on a second spell of service here in January – as a parochial administrator to Holy Cross and St Helen Parish in St Helens – it felt like a homecoming.
That is because of the impression left on the 43-year-old by his first period of living here, when ministering to the local Syro-Malabar Catholic population between 2015 and 2021. Fr Jino had arrived in the northwest of England from India in September 2015 to look after a cluster of Syro-Malabar communities across the archdiocese.
“On the day I came, I was surprised to see Bishop Vincent Malone at Lime Street Station to receive me. I was really touched by the hospitality and the care because in those days I was just like a stranger in a new country. These people made me very welcome.”
The list of people who helped him includes the late Myles Dempsey along with Fr Michael McCormick, Canon Mark Madden, Mgr Aidan Prescott and Mgr Philip Inch, as well as Bishop Emeritus Tom Williams. He mentions also the key role played by the then Archbishop Malcolm McMahon.
“I was the only priest looking after seven communities across the region – from Warrington up to Southport,” he says. “Archbishop Malcolm was kind enough to present us with the Our Lady Queen of Peace Church for us to use, allowing us to all come together in Litherland. We were given that church in 2018.”
The Syro-Malabar Church is one of the 23 Eastern Catholic Churches which are in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church. The second-largest Eastern Catholic Church in the world – after the Ukrainian-Greek Catholic Church – it was set up in Kerala and traces its origins to St Thomas the Apostle, who landed there in 52AD. It owes its name, meanwhile, to its adherence to the East Syriac rite and to the Malabar coastline of southwestern India. Today it has around five million followers worldwide, including almost 40,000 in the United Kingdom.
It was Pope Francis who took the step of granting the SyroMalabar Church dioceses outside of India, meaning the Eparchy of Great Britan was established in 2016. As Fr Jino explains, Indians from the state of Kerala had begun arriving in Britain in around 2000, largely through people ‘working in the NHS’. At the time he began his spell in Litherland, he estimates that ‘there were 300 families’ in the archdiocese. Today that number has risen to around 600.
As well as Our Lady Queen of Peace, now served by Fr James Kozhimala, the Syro-Malabar community also use Sacred Heart Church in Wigan and Holy Cross in St Helens, with Fr Jobin Perumplathussery covering those towns. “Overall, we have more than 100 communities across the UK and more than 80 priests are working for these communities now,” explains Fr Jino.
As for Fr Jino himself, his return to the archdiocese has brought a fresh challenge. After five years as vicar general of the UK’s Syro-Malabar eparchy and a spell living in Portsmouth from 20212024, he has come back here as a priest of the Indian-founded Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament. “We are called the priests of the Holy Eucharist,” he says.
Holy Cross and St Helen has in recent times been a place marked out by daily Mass, extended times of Eucharistic Adoration and access each day to sacramental Confession, and Fr Jino has been charged with maintaining this tradition. In March, he received the keys of the parish from his predecessor, Fr Kevan O’Brien, in a symbolic ceremony that also included a blessing from the now Archbishop Emeritus Malcolm who was responsible for his return to the archdiocese. “I’ve had wonderful support from Archbishop Malcolm all throughout my time in the UK,” he concludes. “He called me to work in the Archdiocese of Liverpool, and so for me it’s like coming home.”
what’s on August
Sunday 3 August
Summer Sunday Organ Recital
– George Fletcher Warren
2:00pm at Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King, Mount Pleasant, Liverpool, L3 5TQ
Join the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King for the first of five Summer Sunday Organ Recitals. Starting with George Fletcher Warren. All are welcome to attend. Admission is free with a retiring collection.
Sunday 10 August
Summer Sunday Organ Recital
– James Luxton
2:00pm at Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King, Mount Pleasant, Liverpool, L3 5TQ
Join the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King for the second of five Summer Sunday Organ Recitals. Continuing with James Luxton. All are welcome to attend. Admission is free with a retiring collection.
Sunday 17 August
Summer Sunday Organ Recital
– Joe Ashmore
2:00pm at Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King, Mount Pleasant, Liverpool, L3 5TQ
Join the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King for the third of five Summer Sunday Organ Recitals. Continuing with Joe Ashmore. All are welcome to attend. Admission is free with a retiring collection.
Friday 22 August – Monday 25 August
Youth 2000 Summer Festival
At Ampleforth Abbey, North Yorkshire Youth 2000 will be holding their Summer Festival at Ampleforth Abbey. It is a fourday festival for young adults, where they can explore faith, build relationships and find hope in this jubilee year. For more information, visit www.youth2000.org/ events/summerfestival2025.
Saturday 23 August
Bring & Buy Fundraiser for Fr. Simon Cadwallader’s Parish in Peru
12:30pm at St Helen’s Church Parish Centre, 112 Alexandra Road, L23 7TQ
Everyone is invited to come along to a Bring & Buy event with stalls, sandwiches, cakes, tea, coffee, and a hamper raffle. All proceeds in aid of Fr. Simon Cadwallader’s parish in Peru. For more information, call 0151 924 3417.
Sunday 24 August
Archdiocesan Pilgrimage Walk and Mass
12:00pm walk start from St Oswald & St Edmund Arrowsmith, Liverpool Road, Ashton-in-Makerfield, WN4 9NP
The second of our three Jubilee Pilgrimage Walks will be a circular walk of 4.5 miles beginning and ending at the Church of St Oswald & St Edmund Arrowsmith. The walk will begin at 12 noon from the church car park, with an option to join at the halfway point from Our Lady’s Church in Bryn for a shorter route. Along the way, we will pause at the old schoolhouse where St Edmund Arrowsmith studied. The walk will conclude with our annual Pilgrimage Mass for St Edmund Arrowsmith at 3:00pm, including the Veneration of the Holy Hand. There will also be a chance to explore the Eucharistic Miracles display around the church and to visit the Shrine. Refreshments will be served afterwards in the Canons Hall.
Sunday 24 August
Pilgrimage Mass to the Holy Hand of St Edmund Arrowsmith
3:00pm at St Oswald & St Edmund Arrowsmith, Liverpool Road, Ashton-inMakerfield, WN4 9NP
The annual pilgrimage Mass to the Holy Hand of St Edmund Arrowsmith will take place on 24 August at the church of St Oswald and St Edmund Arrowsmith.
Canon Sean Riley will be the principal celebrant. The Mass will be followed by a blessing with the Holy Hand. All are welcome to attend.
Sunday 24 August
Summer Sunday Organ Recital
– David Saint
2:00pm at Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King, Mount Pleasant, Liverpool, L3 5TQ
Join the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King for the fourth of five Summer Sunday Organ Recitals. Continuing with David Saint. All are welcome to attend. Admission is free with a retiring collection.
Monday 25 August
Blessed Dominic Barberi Pilgrimage Mass 12:00pm at St Anne & Blessed Dominic, Monastery Road, St Helens, WA9 3ZD
Join the Sutton Shrine Trust as they host their annual pilgrimage to the shrine of Blessed Dominic Barberi, Passionist. The chief celebrant will be the newly elected Superior General of the Passionist Order Fr Guiseppe Adobati Carrara. There will be refreshments available after Mass. All are welcome to attend.
Sunday 31 August
Summer Sunday Organ Recital
– Edward Carew
2:00pm at Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King, Mount Pleasant, Liverpool, L3 5TQ
Join the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King for the final of five Summer Sunday Organ Recitals. Concluding with Edward Carew. All are welcome to attend. Admission is free with a retiring collection.
Events at the Cathedral
by Dr Christopher McElroy Director of Music, Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral
Cathedral Record
Canon Anthony O’Brien – Cathedral Dean
The designs for the new Welcome Centre at the Cathedral are progressing, with formal planning applications being submitted to the statutory authorities towards the end of the year. I enclose below the key project drivers for the scheme to give you an outline of the priorities for the new building. These were set after numerous focus group meetings.
The new Welcome Centre should be:
1. A Focal Point as a place of information and of orientation for all visitors to the Cathedral site.
2. It should provide an area of welcome, where we can provide a personnel-led greeting and welcoming experience to all visitors.
3. The design should be sensitive to, and protect and maintain access to, the Cathedral, whose primary function is a place of worship.
4. It should be a destination, providing a café, shop, and hospitality space to support the daily life of the Cathedral.
5. The project needs to be sustainable and achieve net zero targets with regard to energy usage.
6. It will be accessible, providing equality of access for all ages and abilities.
7. It will be connected, providing easy movement of people from the pavement and drop off spaces through the building and into the Cathedral.
8. It should be educational, providing exciting and interactive ways of sharing information and knowledge through exhibitions along the visitor route.
9. It should be landscape-led, integrating the buildings with the surrounding site and grounds in a successful way.
10. It will need to be flexible, with opportunities of using the various areas independently to be able to realise its full potential.
All of these points will help to assess and direct the progress of the design as we move through these final stages, before we can go to public consultation and share the proposed scheme to the many consultees and the general public.
Pastoral ponderings
by Paul Pimblett
I have been writing entries for the Catholic Pic for two years now and it has truly been a joy to share my vocation journey with you all as well as some insights into the life of a seminarian.
When I was first asked to write in the Catholic Pic, I was somewhat nervous but also incredibly privileged. Initially I wondered what I would talk about in each month’s entry. I was told the articles would be a good chance to give people an insight into the life of a seminarian and so I have tried to provide you all with the various aspects of community life. However, I began to also use the articles as a chance to share my own personal faith with you, as well as my formation journey this far. I hope that over the past two years I have given you a deeper appreciation of the life of a seminarian and formation towards priesthood.
I have been incredibly surprised and grateful to have met parishioners who have told me they read my articles. It has given me great comfort and encouragement to know that people are continuing to pray for the seminarians of our diocese and support us as we grow in configuration to the person of Christ.
Soon, another seminarian will hopefully take up the task of providing these entries and their own experiences of seminary. I am incredibly excited that one of my brothers will be able to continue to share their own pastoral ponderings with you all. However, as these two years draw to a close, I have once more been led to reflect on how I have grown in my own personal journey towards priesthood.
The past three years have passed by incredibly quickly. During that time, there has been one aspect in which I believe I have grown, and that is in the awareness and assurance of the prayers and support of all those who have accompanied me. Moving forward I will continue to rely on the strength of others. I cannot do it alone. First and foremost, I will always require the Lord’s help and the intercession of Our Blessed Lady. Yet I will equally rely on all your prayers, wisdom and guidance.
Please pray for me and be assured I always pray for you.
Our Lady, Queen of Peace, Pray for us.
The Sacrament of Confirmation
By Elizabeth Parsons, Director of Pastoral Development
sacrament of Confirmation. The memories have admittedly faded over the years, but certain moments remain vivid—my family standing around me, and friends from primary school I hadn’t seen in years gathered in the benches.
I had chosen the name Mary—not only because of a connection I felt with Our Lady, but also in memory of a great-aunt who had recently passed away. Even then, I understood this was more than just a ceremony. It was a public and renewed declaration that my faith mattered.
When the moment finally came, and I felt my Sponsor’s hand on my shoulder, the sense of community and belonging that came to me is something that has remained with me to this day. Years later, when I was honoured to be a sponsor for somebody else; she was moved to tears upon returning to her seat, describing it as a ‘beautiful’ experience.
Sadly, there has been an increasing point of view that Confirmation has become the ‘Sacrament of departure’ as described by Pope Francis, due to the fact that many of our young people choose not to return as adults. In September, we will have a new member of the Pastoral Development Team, in the role of Youth Ministry Coordinator who will focus, in part on confirmation. We will look at the existing opportunities for ongoing formation for our teenagers and explore exciting new potential initiatives in the future.
Over recent weeks, the sacrament of confirmation has been taking place all around our archdiocese. Having had the
of these events, it is always humbling to see the generations involved in celebrating this special moment with our confirmands. Our thanks go out to their families, parish priests, catechists and church communities who have been involved in their preparation.
Far more than simply a rite of passage, this ‘beautiful’ sacrament isn’t the end of our journey of faith; in many ways, it can be the beginning of a renewed and more personal relationship with God. As Pope Francis described it: ‘Baptism is the sacrament of birth, Confirmation is the sacrament of growth.’1
I’m sure you will join me in keeping all our young confirmands in your prayers.
“ Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.”
Confirmations from St Charles and St Thomas More, Liverpool South
Saint of the Month
Blessed Dominic Barberi
Blessed Dominic Barberi
An Italian Passionist who served in the Midlands. He established three churches and three chapels before his death in 1849. He was a prolific writer and his literary works and spiritual writings are available today. It was Barberi who received John Henry Newman into the Catholic faith. He is buried at St Anne and Blessed Dominic Church in Sutton, St Helens. His feast day is 26 August.
Deanery Diary
In early Summer 2024, the deanery held two Public Consultation Meetings. 80 people attended these meetings, which were held to consult parishioners in the north and the south of the Deanery about ways to collaborate by sharing resources and talents in order to serve the mission of the Church in our area. The meetings were framed in prayer, scripture, silence, and hymns. We were being asked to help each other to discern God’s will for how our parishes could work together by strengthening our communication, building relationships, widening participation, and enhancing our provision of faith formation, outreach and service to the people in our area.
The Chair of the DSC shared three suggestions about possible projects for collaboration. Participants were invited to respond to these suggestions and to add their own, preferably by also offering assistance in bringing them to fruition. A helpful map of the Deanery, indicating the location of all parishes, was provided, as was a poster with details of three autumn Deanery events in support of adult faith formation. An explanation was given of how to conduct the small group conversations in a manner that facilitates the nature and purpose of synodality, and people were asked to respond to two questions: What practical steps can we take to establish and help develop our Family of Parishes? And what opportunities can be created? Many suggestions for developing cooperation between parishes were put forward - 66 in total!
Having listened carefully to all the suggestions, the Deanery Synodal Council picked out six areas on which to focus. The six areas identified for moving things forward were:
1. Communication and admin across Deanery & Families of Parishes.
2. Being an inclusive and accessible church: supporting those with different needs
3. Church musicians’ collaboration.
4. Adult faith formation.
5. Engaging young people & children.
6. Strengthening our outreach, charitable work and support for the vulnerable.
Two further evenings were held to facilitate the forming of teams for each of the six ‘project’ areas for inter-parish collaboration, and so our work continues in becoming the Church God is calling us to be…
Walking Pilgrimage of the Month
AUGUST
St Edmund Arrowsmith Circular Pilgrimage Walk
While our monthly walks are usually self-guided route suggestions that you can explore in your own time, this month is a little different. August’s walk is one of our organised pilgrimage walks and will take place as a group event on Sunday 24 August. This is a special opportunity to walk in community, reflect together, and prepare for the annual Mass commemorating St Edmund Arrowsmith.
Our walk for August is a circular walk, taking us from St Oswald and St Edmund Arrowsmith Church, Ashton-in-Makerfield, and will take in another church and historic site in the life of St Edmund Arrowsmith. This will also be the walk that will take place before the annual Mass commemorating St Edmund, and the veneration of his holy hand.
Distance: 4.5 miles | Estimated Time 1hr 56 mins
Start: St Oswald and St Edmund Arrowsmith Church, Ashton
We begin our pilgrimage at St Oswald’s Church, home of the shrine of the holy hand of St Edmund Arrowsmith, on the edge of Ashton’s town centre. Lancashireborn Edmund (1585-1628) was martyred for being a catholic priest, a crime of high treason, and was executed. He was canonised in 1970 as one of the Forty English Martyrs. The church, which has a large car park on-site, is open every morning (10am-12noon) for adoration, and also remains open until 4pm for private prayer.
As well as the shrine, there is an interesting display around the church of Eucharistic Miracles around the world, taken from the work that Blessed Carlo Acutis started on his website before his death.
The church, inspired by the Romanesque churches of the south of France, was started 100 years ago in 1925 and completed in 1930. The quality of the stone carving is very good, and there is an excellent stained glass by Harry Clarke of Dublin. So spend some time here before you begin your journey.
Stop 1: Our Lady Immaculate, Bryn
Once we have travelled up Old Road and Wigan Road, passing Bryn train station, we take a left along Downall Green Road, which will take us over the M6 motorway. Immediately after crossing the motorway, Our Lady’s Church is on the right-hand side. This church, the work of Peter Paul Pugin, preserves much of its original character
from 1903. The church was recently beautifully restored after extensive fire and smoke damage. During the day, you will find the church open to visitors for prayer.
Distance: 2 miles | Estimated time: 50 mins
Stop 2: The Old School House
Turn right out of the church and travel down the road into Garswood, turning onto Victoria Road which becomes School Lane. On the right, you will come across a 16th century school house (built in 1588). It was here at this grammar school that the young Edmund Arrowsmith was educated. This building is currently closed but it would be a good opportunity to consider the lives of the Lancashire Martyrs and the lives that they lived in following Christ.
Distance: 1 Mile | Estimated time: 25 minutes
Final leg: Back to St Oswald’s Turn around and take a right onto Station Road, which becomes Strange Road. From here take a public footpath through the fields; a lovely opportunity to consider the beauty of God’s creation. This path will lead back to Liverpool Road and the journey back over the motorway. Eventually St Oswald’s Church is on the right, where we will be celebrating Mass. There will also be an opportunity for veneration of the Holy Hand, and to see the display on Eucharistic Miracles that was originally designed by Blessed Carlo Acutis.
Distance: 1.5 miles | Estimated time: 40 mins
Hope Academy students look to build construction skills
More than 100 Year 9 and 10 students from Hope Academy were recently offered the opportunity to start building careers in the construction industry, thanks to support from Parkside Regeneration.
A hi-tech ‘simulator’ was based at the academy for a week to give students an opportunity to try out different jobs found on construction sites, such as driving diggers and operating cranes.
The move is part of the Parkside Regeneration schools outreach programme as it gears up towards work starting on the giant project’s first phase. The aim is to encourage children to consider the range of well-paid jobs in the UK’s construction industry.
“There will be a wide range of skilled and semi-skilled jobs available as Parkside’s first phase is built-out over the next three years, alongside apprenticeships and training opportunities,” explains John Downes, executive chairman of Langtree, the joint venture partner with St Helens Council that will bring the former colliery site back to productive use.
“We want as many local people and firms as possible to benefit from our investment and this initiative will show school-leavers the opportunities open to them during the construction phase.”
Mr Downes, from Haydock, began his career as a trainee mining surveyor at Parkside Colliery. “When I was sixteen, the choice for young people was either the pit or the local glassworks. Parkside will massively increase career options for local young people once it’s up and running.”
Commenting on the simulator’s value, Amy Green, assistant principal at Hope Academy, at Hope Academy said: “Our students go on to pursue a wide range of academic and career options but the sheer variety of jobs in the construction sector is a real eye-opener. The simulator is a valuable and engaging way to provide first hand experience in a safe environment. We expect as many as a hundred students to make use of it throughout the week.”
The unit has been provided by Civil and Remediation Ltd, which trained up teacher Mr Charlie Wignall to instruct students how to get the most from it. The young people are being encouraged to visit multiple times during break-times and lunch hours to explore as many different job roles as possible.
Commenting on the initiative councillor Kate Groucutt, deputy leader and cabinet member for business and inclusive growth at St Helens Council said: “Our regeneration programme is focused on providing real opportunities for residents - not just when projects are completed but throughout the entirety of the schemes. Initiatives such as this are designed to equip young people with practical, real-world skills to prepare them to step into the new roles emerging through the large-scale regeneration that is taking place across the borough.
“As well as roles in construction, our long-term vision for Parkside is to help our residents to access rewarding highly skilled careers in areas such as advanced manufacturing and logistics. Through all our projects we remain committed to delivering meaningful social value and laying the foundation for long-term prosperity for our communities.”
Our Lady Star of the Sea becomes Mary’s Meals Ambassador School
Pupils and staff at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Primary School in Seaforth have demonstrated a deep commitment to Catholic social teaching this academic year by actively supporting Mary’s Meals – a global charity that helps feed some of the world’s poorest communities.
The school first welcomed Anna Houghton, supporter engagement officer for Mary’s Meals, during the autumn term. Anna introduced the mission and impact of the charity, inspiring the school community to take action.
Since then, Our Lady Star of the Sea has held a number of awareness-raising and fundraising events, including ‘World Porridge Day,’ a ‘Raise Some Dough’ cake sale, and the ‘Move for Meals’ challenge.
Through these efforts, the school raised an impressive £306.40 – enough to provide daily school meals for 16 children for an entire year.
In recognition of its outstanding commitment, Anna returned to the school to present the ‘Schools Feeding Schools’ award. Our Lady Star of the Sea is now officially a Mary’s Meals Ambassador School – one of only three in the UK and the first to receive the award this academic year.
Anna said: “It is wonderful to return to the school, which is just a haven for the children. The school is only the third in the UK to receive this award and the first this academic year. Well done to all the children and staff.”
Mary’s Meals has worked to produce resources for the Religious Education Directory, to further support schools and to be able to share the story of Mary’s Meals as part of Catholic Social Teaching. Our Lady Star of the Sea is proud to have worked with Mary’s Meals and will continue
Liverpool musician Helen Maw joins St John Bosco Arts College for special awards celebration
Singer, songwriter and music journalist, Helen Maw, joined St John Bosco Arts College for its annual awards celebration on Friday, 11 July.
Helen, who is a past pupil of the school, shared an inspirational speech with students about the impact her formative years at St John Bosco had on her career in the music industry.
Helen said: “It was an honour to be asked back to St John Bosco Arts College to celebrate the students’ successes. My experience at St John Bosco shaped me to who I am today, and I loved every minute.”
Helen shared with the congregation her journey to date since leaving the school, which includes achieving a first-class honours degree in music and a masters degree in ‘The Beatles, Popular Music and Society’.
Following her academic achievements, Helen worked for Liverpool headquartered independent music publisher Sentric, whilst songwriting, releasing her own singles, and gigging globally.
St John Bosco’s annual ‘Prize Giving Day’ celebrated the achievements of pupils across the school, both academically and interpersonally. Key Stage 4 students accepted subject prizes, whilst Key Stage 3 pupils received recognition for their hard work and consistent effort.
Students who completed GCSEs and A-levels during the 2023/24 academic year, also returned to revisit the school and receive their official examination certificates.
Throughout the ceremony, attendees were treated to several incredible student performances. The school band covered California Dreamin’ and the cast of the school’s production of Moana took to the stage with a rendition of ‘How Far I’ll Go’.
The award-winning choir performed ‘Proud’ by Heather Small and later returned to the stage with its cover of ‘Shine’ by Emeli Sandé. The heartwarming celebration was closed with the school community joining together for the school hymn to St John Bosco.
Headteacher, Mr Darren Gidman, said: “St John Bosco Arts College is a family that supports one another through every stage of their journey. It was delightful to be able to welcome Helen back to our school community for a wonderful day of celebrations.”
Primary school holds immersive innovation exhibition
At the start of July, Ss Peter & Paul Catholic Primary School held its annual exhibition with members of the public praising pupils’ passion.
This year’s exhibition, which was open for six days and titled ‘Inspiring Futures Through Innovation’, was a celebration of imagination, technology and the power of young minds to shape a better world.
Split into 10 zones, it took visitors on a journey of exploration, as they saw how all pupils of Ss Peter & Paul, from nursery to Year 6, engaged with technology as creators, thinkers and problemsolvers.
Travelling through tunnels and tents, in what is usually the school’s hall, to each zone, visitors saw the work of individual year groups who focused on an area of innovation including coding, gaming, AI and social media.
The multimedia exhibition sparked community conversations by inspiring visitors through the power of technology to reflect on the past and look into the future.
The exhibition included local projects such as ‘Fairgrounds of the Future’ which was created by Year 1 pupils who designed and built new fairground rides for New Brighton using LEGO robotics and coding software, having been inspired by conversations with parents and grandparents.
It also featured wider-reaching projects such as ‘Technology Through Time – Past, Present and Future Homes’, which saw Year 4 pupils work with West Kirby architect, Mr Colin Usher of MicroArchiTecture, to understand how humans have lived
through the ages before envisioning their own futuristic, intelligent and sustainable living spaces.
Headteacher of Ss Peter & Paul, Mr Tom Wallace, said: “I’m so proud of our pupils and the enthusiasm they displayed in putting together their individual year group projects to create our fantastic, immersive exhibition. Visitors to the showcase were mesmerised by the work they completed – we even had our nursery pupils looking at how technology can help us care for the world.”
L-R: Helen Maw, deputy head girl Evie, headteacher Darren Gidman
Much Woolton Catholic Primary School’s pupils shine in National Engineering Competition
Much Woolton Catholic Primary School is celebrating a remarkable achievement in this year’s Primary Engineer: ‘If You Were an Engineer, What Would You Do?’ competition, with 17 pupils recognised for their innovation and creativity in the Leaders Award.
Grounded in Much Woolton’s Gospel-inspired values ‘With Jesus we Love, Learn and Grow’, the competition embodied the school’s mission to be ‘a beacon of light that shines out to others, sharing faith, hope and love’. These guiding principles, emphasising service, kindness, and stewardship, were reflected throughout the project as pupils sought solutions to real-world issues.
The journey began with an inspiring whole-school assembly led by the design and technology lead, launching the project and sparking excitement across the school. The initiative built on the success of Much Woolton’s STEM Week, which featured expert visitors from Gateacre School, CSL Seqirus, and the LFC Foundation’s STEM Team. These visits fuelled pupils’ enthusiasm and curiosity for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
In line with the school’s curriculum focus, ‘At Much Woolton, we are agents for change’, the competition was adapted to ensure full inclusion, enabling every pupil to critically explore real-world problems and design thoughtful solutions. The school’s link engineer, Krystina Pearson-Rampearee from BAE Systems, visited each class, championed the role of girls in STEM, and supported pupils in refining their ideas.
St John Bosco Arts College remembers Mrs Anna Park
It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Mrs Anna Park, a much-loved art teacher leader at St John Bosco Arts College in Croxteth. Anna was a beloved member of our school family for nearly 26 years and remained dedicated to the school, staff and its students until her untimely passing following a long illness.
Anna’s creativity, kindness and unwavering dedication enriched the lives of all she worked with and will continue to live on in every mural, sketchbook, and heart she inspired.
We hold
Anna’s memory in our hearts and in our prayers.
Among a large number of national entries to Primary Engineer, Much Woolton pupils received nine ‘highly commended’ and eight ‘winners’ awards. In June, these young innovators attended a celebratory ceremony at Liverpool John Moores University, where they received their accolades in front of a proud audience of peers, families, and dignitaries.
The highlight of the evening came when a Year 6 pupil received the prestigious Judge’s Award – one of only 25 awarded nationally – for her ‘Digital memory book for dementia patients’, inspired by her grandad. The touching design moved the audience, earning both applause and tears, as the Lord Mayor of Liverpool presented the award.
Anne Radford awarded Pro Ecclesia et Pontiface Medal
It was a time of celebration as students and staff from Holy Name and Our Lady & St Philomena Catholic Primary Schools came together to celebrate the work of retiring executive headteacher, Anne Radford.
Anne will be retiring after a 51-year career in Catholic schools across the Archdiocese of Liverpool.
She started teaching in 1974 at Holy Cross Primary School in St Helens, before moving to All Saints Primary School in Golborne 14 years later, and later returning to St Helens.
Her first deputy position was at St Malachy’s in Liverpool, which she felt was a calling. She then worked at another school in Liverpool, before joining Holy Name in 2002 as headteacher, and also taking on Our Lady and St Philomena’s a decade ago.
As recognition of her work, Anne was presented with the Pro Ecclesia et Pontiface Medal, which is one of the highest honours that can be bestowed upon a layperson.
Reacting to the award of the medal, Anne said: “I’m still in a daze. I had no idea it was going to happen – I only found out the day before that there was going to be a Mass for me, which was beautiful.
“I’ve tried my best throughout my career. I’ve always had the philosophy of children first, with the staff a very close second, and in my main school, that is the philosophy that is still being carried on. I’ve passed the baton on – we’re a family.
“When I went to St Philly’s (Our Lady and St Philomena), I adopted the same philosophy and nurtured the staff. The children are central to everything. And they have been the reason for my being.”
When asked about what she will miss as a headteacher, Anne said: “The children. They bring a smile to your face, as well as tears.
“Every person has a story to tell, and I love having banter with them, even about football.
“It has been my privilege to serve in my career, and I have been blessed to work with amazing staff and governors. This award should be for them – for putting me where I am.”
After taking a well-earned rest, Anne will be keeping busy as a School Improvement Partner (SIP) and as an inspector for the Catholic School Inspectorate (CSI).
Double award for Faith in Action at St John Fisher Catholic Primary School
St John Fisher Catholic Primary School in Halton is celebrating a significant milestone, having achieved not one but two prestigious accolades in recognition of its commitment to faith, service, and global solidarity.
The school has been awarded the CAFOD LiveSimply Award, which honours communities that demonstrate they are living simply, sustainably, and in solidarity with the world’s poorest people.
Over the past year, pupils, staff, and families at St John Fisher have worked together to reduce waste, increase recycling, support local food banks, and lead prayerful campaigns focused on global justice.
Headteacher of St John Fisher Catholic Primary School, Mrs Dickinson, said: “This award reflects our school’s Gospel-centred mission. Our pupils have been inspired to care for God’s creation and for our global neighbours. It’s been a joy to see them living out Catholic Social Teaching in such practical and prayerful ways.”
In addition to this achievement, the school has also become one of the first in the Archdiocese of Liverpool to receive Mary’s Meals Accreditation. Mary’s Meals is a global movement that provides school meals to children living in some of the world’s poorest communities.
Throughout the academic year, the school community embraced the mission of Mary’s Meals through creative and meaningful initiatives, including ‘Spooky Porridge’ for World Porridge Day, a ‘Raise Some Dough’ cake sale during Lent, and
In total, the school raised nearly £800 in support of the charity’s work. Pupils also led assemblies and prayer services to raise awareness of global hunger and the transformative power of education.
Fr Mark Moran, parish priest of St John Fisher, commented: “This is a proud moment for our parish school. The children have shown what it means to put faith into action. Their compassion for others is a living witness to Christ’s love.”
a themed stall at the school’s summer fair.
“Summer is God’s way of reminding us that life is not all work — it is also joy, beauty, and rest.”
— Unknown
As the final bell rings and our schools and colleges close their gates for the summer, we find ourselves entering a season that brings a deep sigh of relief for many. For our young people, this is a precious time — a time for rest, play, and freedom from routine.
Yet for some children, the summer holidays can be a time of upheaval and uncertainty. The structure, stability, and support offered by the school environment are missed. As educators and communities, we hold them in our thoughts and prayers, hoping they find peace, care, and joy during these weeks.
Even Jesus knew the value of rest. In the Gospel of Mark, we hear His invitation:
“Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while” (Mark 6:31).
Jesus himself took time away from the crowds — time for quiet, for prayer, for communion with the Father. In our modern world — one that glorifies constant activity and being “always available” — it is more important than ever to recognise the spiritual and physical necessity of rest. Rest renews us. It re-centres us.
So, I wish all our children, staff, and families a joyful and restful summer. May it be a time to reconnect with loved ones, to read, to walk, to pray, and simply to breathe.
Of course, the work of education does not completely pause. Summer sees building works, deep cleans, classrooms being reshuffled, and plans carefully laid for the year ahead. School staff, leaders, and site teams will be working quietly in the background at various points to ensure that everything is ready for a new academic year come September.
On 10 July, we gathered for our annual Mass of Thanksgiving — a moment of deep gratitude. We celebrated and honoured colleagues who have retired from Catholic education, many of whom have given 30, 40, even 50 years of their lives to this vocation. It was a moving reminder of the commitment, care, and love that underpin our schools.
This Mass also reminded us that education is very much a shared endeavour. Every role in a school — from classroom teacher to teaching assistant, caretaker to cook, administrator to headteacher — contributes to the flourishing of the child as a whole. Catholic education is not simply about delivering a curriculum; it is about forming hearts and minds, nurturing faith, and supporting the growth of each young person in body, mind, and spirit. That work is only possible through the efforts of many.
As we reflect on this season, may we all take time to find stillness, to rest well, and to remain rooted in the love of God who calls us, in every season, to trust, to hope, and to renew our strength. Wishing you every blessing this summer.
Joan McCarthy Director of Education
Archdiocese of Liverpool
Growing green futures: school receives £12k boost to transform outdoor area
St Alban’s Catholic Primary School has had its green dreams turned into a reality after being awarded a £12,000 grant to cultivate its pupils’ outdoor experiences with the creation of a new, garden space.
The £12,000 contribution was given by the National Education Nature Park Grant with the Royal Horticultural Society, that aims to connect children and young people with nature through their educational settings.
With the grant, St Alban’s has purchased soil, planters, tools, and seeds to make raised beds and seating areas in the school’s outside spaces and its new ‘Laudato Si’ Garden’.
Committed to promoting sustainability and further improving the wellbeing of its pupils, the school has also invested in two living walls to offset carbon dioxide emissions and support air quality within the area.
Pupils who are members of the school’s ‘Mini Vinnies’ club, have taken an active role in creating their new garden space, and have planted a variety of herbs, plants and sensoryfriendly flora.
One pupil said: “The Laudato Si’ Garden is amazing. I hope that once it’s fully grown, we will be able to use it for a calm area – it already feels very peaceful.”
The garden is currently aiding pupils’ understanding of the natural world within religious education, science and wellbeing lessons, and there are plans in place to use it as a calming and reflective space for children who may need extra support in regulating their emotions.
Headteacher, Mr John McDonald, said: “Our Laudato Si’ Garden emerged from a shared vision between school leaders and parish supporters to create a meaningful and peaceful space that connects learning with spirituality, nature and wellbeing.
“The response from pupils has been a joy to witness - as the garden grows, so does their confidence, teamwork and sense of responsibility.”
As the ‘Laudato Si’ Garden’ continues to grow, the school has plans to welcome the wider community to support its success with a range of events currently being organised, including gardening sessions with volunteer parishioners and intergenerational gardening mornings.
Victory for The Salesian Academy of St John Bosco at Bootle Schools Athletics Championships
The Salesian Academy of St John Bosco celebrated a historic sporting achievement after its boys’ athletics squad was crowned Bootle Schools Champions – the school’s first win in the event for over 25 years.
Following an already successful athletics season, the boys’ team secured first place at the championships held at Litherland Sports Park. The girls’ squad also delivered an impressive performance, finishing second overall.
There were standout achievements across a range of track and field events, with particular success in the four 100m relays. The school’s relay teams won four out of the six races, which was a remarkable accomplishment that highlighted the strength and depth of talent within the squad.
In a proud moment for the school, Year 9 team captain Ruben lifted the historic championship trophy, which dates back to the early 1930s – a fitting end to a memorable day.
Staff at The Salesian Academy of St John Bosco praised the students for their hard work, commitment, and team spirit throughout the season.
Congratulations go to all the students who represented the school and played a part in this landmark achievement.
Special guest inspires students during school visit
St Mary’s Catholic College was recently honoured to welcome the newly appointed Mayor of Wirral, Councillor Brian Kenny, for a special visit to the school.
The visit provided an excellent opportunity for the school community to celebrate Councillor Brian Kenny’s new role and to strengthen the connection between the secondary school and the wider Wirral community.
The Mayor was warmly greeted by the school choir, headteacher, chair of governors, staff, and students. The choir performed ‘Hallelujah’ and ‘Imagine’.
Following the welcome, Councillor Brian Kenny enjoyed a guided tour of the college led by students, who gave him an insight into their school day, academic environment, and the wide range of enrichment activities available at St Mary’s.
The visit concluded with a traditional afternoon tea, where the Mayor joined staff and was served freshly baked scones with jam and cream, providing a relaxed setting for further conversation.
Throughout his visit, the Mayor took time to engage personally with students, listening carefully to their experiences and aspirations.
Year 9 pupil, Oscar Deacon, said: “It was a really great experience meeting the Mayor and being able to spend time with a leader of our community. It meant a lot that he came in and took the time to get to know us and see our school. It felt special to show him what St Mary’s is all about as we celebrated his new appointment.”
Mayor of Wirral, Councillor Brian Kenny, commented: “I was truly impressed by how welcoming the school community is and the positive atmosphere throughout. It’s clear how proud the students are to be part of St Mary’s, which is wonderful to see.”
Headteacher, Mr Kevin Maddocks, said: “We were absolutely delighted to welcome the Mayor of Wirral into St Mary’s Catholic
College. His visit was a wonderful opportunity for our students to meet an inspirational community leader and to share their school experiences with him.
“The Mayor’s genuine interest in our students and staff really highlighted the importance of partnership between schools and the wider community. We look forward to working together to support our young people and continue to celebrate everything that makes our college special.”
Andy Moor, CEO of Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust, said: “We are delighted that the newly appointed Mayor of Wirral was able to visit St Mary’s Catholic College and see firsthand the dedication of our staff and students.
“His visit strengthens the bond between the Trust and the wider Wirral community, and we look forward to continued collaboration to support the growth and success of our young people.”
St Mary’s College Preparatory School achieves LiveSimply Award
Pupils and staff at St Mary’s College Preparatory School in Blundellsands have been presented with an award for their caring attitude and actions by a leading international charity.
The LiveSimply Award recognises that members of the school community live simply, sustainably and in solidarity with communities around the world experiencing poverty.
The award, which is part of a scheme run by CAFOD (Catholic Agency For Overseas Development), was presented to the school after it planned and implemented faith-inspired actions. These highlighted the importance of caring for people and the planet.
Every pupil played a part in the actions, which ranged from planting vegetables on World Food Day to hands-on activities focusing on the principles of global justice.
The whole school family, including parents and the wider community, also came together to support initiatives, such as singing in the local park at Christmas to raise funds for those in need.
The school’s religious education co-ordinator, Paula Walton, commented: “I’m incredibly proud of how passionately our children embraced the LiveSimply principles and how determined they are to make a difference.
“It’s also important to remember that this award isn’t just a onetime achievement. It has highlighted the values of compassion, sustainability and community spirit that they can carry with them wherever they go throughout their lives.”
CAFOD’s LiveSimply co-ordinator, Siobhan Farnell, added: “Congratulations to the pupils and staff of St Mary’s College
Preparatory School on achieving the LiveSimply Award. Their actions are wonderful examples of caring for others and the planet, our common home.”
Speaking about taking part in the LiveSimply Award one Year 4 pupil said: “It’s taught us what it truly means to live in solidarity with others both nearby and across the globe. We have loved helping others and would encourage other schools to take part too.”
Another pupil said: “Achieving this award has set an example for new children joining our school, showing them how to live out our values by getting involved.”
St Julie’s Catholic Primary School marks Jubilee Year with pilgrimage to Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral
Pupils, staff, and members of the wider school community from St Julie’s Catholic Primary School in Eccleston, St Helens, made a special pilgrimage to the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King, as part of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year, Pilgrims of Hope.
The whole-school pilgrimage was a joyful and uplifting experience for everyone. On arrival, the cathedral bells rang out as pupils processed behind their school banner, singing ‘Ave Maria’.
Many of the children were struck by the size of the cathedral and the colours created by the stained-glass windows.
Pupils took an active role during the Mass, reading confidently and singing hymns with care and enthusiasm. Children from Year 5 brought up the offertory gifts, including the school’s ‘Pledges of Hope’, which consisted of thoughts and actions written by the pupils about how they can make a difference in the future.
After Mass, the children explored the cathedral, linking features of the space with those found in their own parish church, St Julie’s.
Parents, governors, and parishioners joined the school on the day, and Mass was celebrated by Fr Michael.
Special thanks were given to Robert in Year 6, who supported the cathedral altar servers, and to Chris McElroy, director of music for the Archdiocese, who visited the school in the weeks leading up to the event to lead singing practices.
The idea for the pilgrimage came from Mrs McCahey earlier in the year, and her work in helping to organise the visit was greatly appreciated by the school community.
Jubilee pilgrimage to Rome inspires students of St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Academy
Students and staff from St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Academy in St Helens recently returned from an unforgettable pilgrimage to Rome, marking the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year with a journey filled with history, faith, and spiritual growth.
The school community explored some of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, including the Catacombs, Colosseum, Roman Forum, Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. However, beyond the sightseeing, the group embarked on a powerful pilgrimage as part of the Jubilee Year of Hope.
During their time in Rome, students joined crowds of pilgrims to see Pope Francis pass by in the Popemobile and took part in his Papal Audience, listening to his message in several languages.
One student reflected: “I was moved by how special it felt to see the Pope up close.”
Following an afternoon in the Vatican Museum and free time, St Augustine students and staff met Jubilee volunteers and were given a large cross to carry through the Holy Door into St Peter’s Basilica. A Year 10 student carried the cross at the front while the school pilgrims walked, prayed and sang along the way, eventually passing through the Holy Door.
One teacher described the experience as “inspiring to pass as a pilgrim from one side of the door to the other, and into the Basilica.”
The pilgrimage concluded with Mass at the Pontifical Angelicum University, where students took part by reading during the service. Afterwards, Dominican chaplain Fr Benedict guided
the group to the university roof, offering panoramic views of the Eternal City while sharing the stories of Saints Peter and Paul, including the places of their martyrdom.
Students were captivated by the experience, with one commenting on how much he enjoyed learning about the lives and legacy of the saints.
Despite returning to a rainy St Helens, the students brought home a renewed sense of faith, community, and appreciation for the rich traditions of the Church.
Mass of Thanksgiving honours Catholic education colleagues
A special Diocesan Mass of Thanksgiving for those retiring from Catholic education was recently celebrated at the Metropolitan Cathedral.
The Mass, concelebrated by Archbishop John Sherrington, brought together staff, students, and school communities from across the Archdiocese to give thanks for the dedicated service of colleagues who have faithfully contributed to Catholic education.
In his homily, Archbishop John reflected on the vital role of Catholic schools, describing them as “an ecosystem helping children to grow.”
He emphasised that everyone involved in the life of a school contributes to the formation of the whole child – spiritually, morally, intellectually, and emotionally. “All play a part,” he said, “in the education of the child as a whole person.”
The cathedral was filled with school staff, governors, family members, and friends, many of whom had come to celebrate and support those receiving retirement awards.
It was moving to witness the strength of community around so many of the 64 award recipients. Their service, commitment, and vocation were acknowledged with deep gratitude as Archbishop John personally presented each award.
Those who were unable to attend the Mass will receive their awards in person at a later date.
Joan McCarthy, director of education for the Archdiocese, spoke of the importance of recognising the impact of those who have served in Catholic schools and colleges.
She said: “All of them have played a part. It is important that we, as a Diocese, say thank you for this vocation. Their contribution has been significant, and it deserves to be honoured.”
She also thanked the Archdiocesan Education Department for its hard work in organising the event, which was a joyful and moving occasion for all.
Music for the Mass was beautifully led by the choir from St Mary’s Catholic High School, under the direction of Danny Townley from the cathedral. Their contribution added greatly to the prayerful and celebratory spirit of the evening.
The full list of retirees include:
Philippa Agate from St Cecilia’s
Helen Ahmed from Sacred Heart Leigh
Peter Alcock from St Mary’s Blackbrook
Simon Anten from St John Rigby
Julia Ashton from St Mary’s Blackbrook
Debbie Aspinall from All Saints CPS Golborne
Pauline Baker-Houghton from St Teresa of Lisieux CPS
Ann Bamber from St Teresa of Lisieux CPS
Linda Bannister from St Anne’s CPS, Knowsley
Pete Barnett from St Teresa of Lisieux CPS
Paul Bennett from Cardinal Heenan
Sharon Birch from St Nicholas Catholic Academy
Pat Blackhall from Saints Peter & Paul CPS
Karen Bolland from All Saints CPS Golborne
Louise Bowman from St Michael and All Angels
Cathryn Brady from St Oswald’s CPS
Carolyn Braithwaite from St Nicholas Catholic Academy
Liz Bryne from Sacred Heart CPS
Wendy Burns from St Brigid’s CPS
Rebecca Carter from Our Lady & St Swithins
Peter Chapman from St George’s CPS
Denise Christopherson from Christ the King CPS
Patricia Coulthard from Ss Peter and Paul
Bernadette Dalley from Great Crosby CPS
Ann Daniels from Archbishop Beck
Mike Davidson from Archbishop Beck
Bernadette Davies from Broughton Hall
Ginette Doherty from Sacred Heart Chorley
Carol Doran from Archbishop Beck
Jim Doyle from Holy Cross CPS
Julie Duffy from St Marys Birchley
Jane Dugdale from St Bartholomew’s CPS
Clair Fealy from All Saints
Cathy Flaherty from De La Salle
Tony Ford from Corpus Christi
Linda Frediani-Bellis from Our Lady Star of the Sea
Bev Gaskell from Sacred Heart CPS
Anne Georgiou from St Stephen’s
Susan Green from Our Lady of Lourdes CPS
Joanne Grimes from St Cuthberts CHS
Cathy Harper from Our Lady Star of the Sea
Susan Haydock from All Hallows Penwortham
Joan Heath from St Paul and St Timothy’s CPS
Philippa Hible from Hope Academy
Miriam Higgins from Archbishop Beck
Carol Hogan from Archbishop Beck
Louise Hough MBE from Resonate Music Hub, Notre Dame Catholic Academy
Sue Houghton from Great Crosby CPS
Catherine Hughes from St Gregory’s CPS, Netherley
Mike Hurle from St Basils CPS
Sr Margaret Jenkins SND from Notre Dame Catholic Academy
Brenda Jones from Notre Dame Catholic Academy
Gail Jones from Runnymede St Edward’s CPS
Dominic Jones from St John Rigby
Liz Kelly from Emmaus school
Steve Kenny from Archbishop Beck
Christine Kenny from Notre Dame Catholic Academy
Margaret Kerbey from St Edmunds and St Thomas CPS
Joan Maguire from All Saints
Pauline Maguire from Great Crosby CPS
Julie Marston from All Saints CPS Golborne
Helen McCahey from St Julie’s CPS
Peter McGhee from St John Rigby
Pamela McGuffie from Our Lady of Perpetual Succour CPS
Margaret McKenna from St Monica’s CPS
Patricia McKenna-Smith from St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School
Leon McMullen from Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Engineering College
Susan Morgan from St Teresa of Lisieux CPS
Tricia Mulholland from Holy Trinity Catholic Primary School
Sheila Murphy from Saints Peter & Paul CPS
Ken Murphy from St Chads
Bernadette Murphy from St Joseph’s Chorley
Elaine Neary from Notre Dame Catholic Academy
Theresa Poskitt from Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Engineering College
Julie Price from St Marie’s CPS
Christina Pritchard from St Matthew’s CPS
Sue Quane from Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Engineering College
Martin Quinn from Sts Peter and Paul Haresfinch
Yvonne Quirk from Christ the King CPS
Anne Radford from Holy Name
Alyson Rigby from St Michael’s CPS
Sandra Russell from All Saints CPS Golborne
June Scally from All Saints CPS Golborne
Sue Scrutton from All Saints
Bernadette Sefton from St Cuthberts CPS
Catherine Sergeant from Our Lady Immaculate
Julie Shipley from St Margaret Mary’s Jnr School
Marie Smith from Archbishop Beck
Sheena Smith from St Augustine of Canterbury
Christine Smith from St Basils CPS
Lorraine Styles from Notre Dame Catholic Academy
Jane Talbot-Davies from St Marys Birchley
Chris Temple from Great Crosby CPS
Andrew Tremarco from St Teresa of Lisieux
Louise Vose from St Mary & St John
Patsy Wade from St Austin’s
Sharon Walton from Saints Peter & Paul CPS
Sue Warburton from St Columba’s CPS
Julie Wellens from De La Salle
Bridget West from Our Lady of Lourdes CPS
Lesley White from Hope Academy
Lesley Whitfield from St Marys Jnr
Rebecca Wilkinson from St Margaret Mary’s Jnr School
Susan Williams from Our Lady of Perpetual Succour CPS
Bernadette Wood from St Oswald’s CPS Longton
Christine Woodhouse from Blessed Sacrament
Shirley Woods from St John Bosco Arts College
Gillian Yorke from St John Rigby
SJCMAT Trust Mission Day: A Celebration of Unity, Faith and Purpose
On Thursday 10 July, the St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust (SJCMAT) gathered in the magnificent St George’s Hall, Liverpool, for a powerful day of prayer, reflection and shared purpose at the Trust Mission Day.
With the theme of ‘inspiration, liturgy, music and prayers as ONE St Joseph’s family,’ the event brought together trust staff, governors, directors and colleagues from the Archdiocese of Liverpool, united by a deep commitment to Catholic education and the mission of the Trust: ‘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.’
The day was filled with uplifting worship, led by Jo Boyce and CJM Music, whose beautiful hymns echoed throughout the hall – ‘All are welcome, all belong’ became a refrain that many carried in their hearts long after the final note.
Keynote speaker Raymond Friel OBE brought Catholic Social Teaching to life with clarity and inspiration, helping staff across the Trust deepen their understanding of how these principles underpin every aspect of their work, particularly in service of the most vulnerable children.
Sister Judith Russi SSMN led a stirring session on the life and mission of St Joseph, calling on schools to be hearts in the community, where faith becomes action and transformation begins at a local level. Her reminder, quoting Gandhi, that “a small body of determined spirits... can alter the course of history,” resonated deeply.
The day concluded in thanksgiving with a beautiful celebration of Mass – a fitting end to a day that renewed hearts and re-centred the Trust community on its sacred mission: to serve, to educate, and to love as Christ calls us.
St Gregory’s students join community celebration at Warrington Walking Day
Students from St Gregory’s Catholic High School proudly took part in Warrington Walking Day in June, joining members of Sacred Heart Parish and other churches for the annual Christian procession.
Warrington Walking Day is a long-standing tradition in the town, attracting large crowds as the local community lines the streets to watch schools, parishes, and church groups come together in a public celebration of faith.
Despite the rainy weather, students from St Gregory’s represented their school with
pride, showcasing their commitment to community and faith.
Their enthusiasm and positive spirit were clear to see as they walked alongside parishioners, undeterred by the downpour.
School chaplain, Mrs Whitlow, said: “I was thrilled to watch our students participate in Warrington Walking Day. It is a real community event and all of our students displayed our St Gregory’s Charisms with pride. We look forward to returning to Walking Day in 2026!”
The Academy of St Nicholas hosts sustainable fashion show
On Thursday, 3 July 2025, students from The Academy of St Nicholas took to the catwalk in a unique fashion show designed to highlight the environmental impact of fast fashion.
‘Where’s Your Thread At?’ brought together the school community and local organisations for a sell-out show, held in the academy’s atrium.
Over 90 talented students participated in the show, taking on various roles including models, set designers, hospitality staff, marketers, event coordinators, entertainers, and dancers, demonstrating artistic flair and teamwork.
The academy, a proud member of the All Saints Multi Academy Trust, was delighted to have pupils from St Cleopas CE Primary Academy, also part of the Trust, involved in the event.
Collaborating with New Mersey Retail Park and Roberts Recycling, the school showcased student-designed, upcycled clothing that challenged the culture of fast fashion and highlighted the importance of responsible consumption.
Three bespoke collections hit the catwalk: ‘Recycled Royalty, ‘Punk Pirates’ and ‘Futuristic Fashionistas’. Students modelled each creation with confidence, bringing the designs to life and captivating the audience with their creativity and energy.
On the night, the academy’s gospel choir took to the stage to entertain the audience, alongside talented dancers. Local poet Gerry Clarkson also performed spoken word pieces, joined by students from across different year groups, exploring the theme of ‘Our World’.
Guests also enjoyed a raffle featuring exciting prizes and a variety of stalls selling handmade and upcycled products.
Proceeds from ticket sales for the fashion show and the raffle were donated to YPAS (Young Persons Advisory Service), a local charity that provides crucial mental health support for young people.
Molly Haresnape, in Year 10, said: “Back in April, I visited Roberts Recycling plant and learnt all about textile waste. I picked clothes and fabric to take away to upcycle and redesign back at school. Since then, I have been busy making my costume for the fashion show to model on the night. I enjoyed every minute of being part of such an amazing project and especially being on the catwalk in my very own design! The experience has inspired me to become a fashion designer when I am older.”
Headteacher, Mr Gary Lloyd, said: “This event was a true celebration of student creativity, collaboration, and compassion. It not only showcased the incredible talent within our school but also highlighted the importance of sustainability and mental health awareness. We were also delighted to have St Cleopas CE Primary Academy take part in the event.”
“We are incredibly proud of our students and grateful to New Mersey Retail Park and Roberts Recycling and the wider community for their support.”
Russell Hall, centre manager at New Mersey
Retail Park, said: “It’s been really rewarding to play our small part in this exciting initiative, supporting the talented young people in our community to bring the sustainable fashion show to life, while inspiring more locals to recycle their clothing.
“It was great to see the final designs take to the stage and we’re so impressed by the creativity of the students at The Academy of St Nicholas. A big thank you to all our shoppers who donated their preloved clothing and helped make the show a success!”
Paul Roberts, director of Roberts Recycling, commented: “It’s been a real privilege for Roberts Recycling to support The Academy of St Nicholas students and staff team on the incredible ‘Where’s Your Thread At?’ fashion show project.
“From launching the programme in an assembly, to welcoming students behind the scenes at our HQ to select clothing to upcycle, and bringing in local craft experts to run workshops at St Cleopas, we’ve been blown away by the creativity, enthusiasm and commitment on show.
Paul added: “As a local business, we’re passionate about supporting our community and creating opportunities for young people. We hope many see a future for themselves in sustainability, recycling or the creative industries.”
Faith in Action efforts provide shining light
Father Simon Gore from Animate Youth Ministries reflects on the year-ending Faith in Action awards.
And so to the second part of the trilogy. As you may remember, I said we would have a series of end-of-year articles about the three things that we have been doing at Animate over these last few months.
Last month we spoke about our retreat programme and this month it is the turn of the Faith in Action awards. We have mentioned the awards previously in the Pic so I do not feel there is a need to go into detail about what they are. Instead, I want to focus on the end of the awards, which marks the culmination of the year for those taking part.
In brief, the awards are made of four levels – pin, bronze, silver and gold – and each participant must do a different type of work for each award. Obviously, the gold award means doing more work and offering a different kind of work as well. What can sometimes be missed about the award, though, is that it is not just about work and action. There is a significant amount of faith involved as well.
Each young person must reflect on the work they have been doing in the light of Church teachings and scripture. This is all done through the year so they can understand more about why what they are doing is important and why it can be seen as putting their faith into action.
At the end of the year, participants must complete a final piece of work. This is not an exam, nor a piece of work that is tested. Rather it allows them to demonstrate and show what they have been doing.
This is when we, as a central awarding authority, come into play. All of those final pieces – which in this case was 1,500 – come to Lowe House. We then redistribute them to our moderators, each of whom will take a number of packs and look through what each young person has been doing for their final piece. They will then write an individual comment sheet for each participant.
As you read this, you may think this is a lot of work and effort for not much reward. You may think that simply handing out certificates at the awards ceremony would suffice. But we feel it is important that the Archdiocese, and so the Church as a whole, offers its thanks to those young people on an individual level. Yes, getting a certificate is nice, but getting a short, handwritten note from various people around the Diocese, which thanks you for the work you have done and encourages you to continue with it, gives this award a different dimension.
Indeed, one of the comments we often get back is that the young people are surprised and excited by the fact someone has taken the time to read about what they have been doing and then offer them a few words in response.
And for our moderators it can be really affirming and a positive experience to see and hear about all that our young people do. In a world that at times can seem overwhelmed with bad news, this is a light shining in the darkness for all of us.
It is only right, then, that those young people are rewarded. Last year you may remember we made the award ceremony into a fun day as well. This year we made it bigger still, spreading the awards out over two days. We are grateful to Bishop Emeritus Tom Williams and Bishop Tom Neylon for distributing the awards, and also to Archbishop John Sherrington for finding time to come along to meet the young people of his new Archdiocese. We feel that these days are great blessings. They remind us of all the good things that happen around us but can sometimes be overlooked or go unnoticed. If you would like more information on being part of the awards next year, please call us or go to our website for more information. We are always happy to have more schools or parishes involved and having more moderators or helpers to assist on the fun days is always a good thing to have. www.animateyouth.org/
Mums the Word Pic
Pilgrims of Hope. That is what we were when we visited Walsingham for our 78th annual pilgrimage in July. Union of Catholic Mothers members from all over the country arrived by coaches and cars. As our Liverpool group got off the coach, we went straight to the Church of the Annunciation for an arrival Mass celebrated by our chaplain, Father David Potter.
After Mass and then dinner, we processed for one mile while reciting the rosary to the shrine of Our Lady.
That was followed by a torchlight procession back to the village with hymns and the rosary. We ended in the gardens with evening prayer. The following day we processed again to the shrine reciting the rosary and singing hymns. The weather was glorious, if not a little too hot, but we enjoyed it.
When we arrived at the shrine we sat in the sunshine and had Holy Mass followed by a picnic lunch. After lunch we had a recessional procession led by bishops and clergy and each diocese had a representative to carry their banner.
It was all very prayerful and joyful. We went back to our accommodation and had dinner. Then we went to the bar and enjoyed talking to UCM members from across the country. Everyone was happy and filled with hope for the future. The camaraderie among the ladies was wonderful. I am already look forward to going back next year.
Maureen Finnegan, Archdiocesan Deputy President
Over a Century of Service
News from the Liverpool Province of the Knights of St Columba
Knights mark St Columba’s feast day
Members of the order from around Liverpool came together on Friday 13 June at St Columba’s in Huyton to mark the feast of our patron saint.
The feast day itself was on 9 June and the gathering came at the kind invitation of Canon Michael Fitzsimons, the parish priest, with whom we had evening prayers in honour of St Columba. As is tradition, following the conclusion of the prayers, the Knights sang ‘Floreat Columba’, and this was followed by a buffet and a presentation to Canon Michael.
The previous week, as reported in last month’s Pic, the order’s Biennial Mass for Deceased Members took place at the Metropolitan Cathedral – a Mass celebrated by the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendia, along with co-celebrant Bishop Thomas Neylon. Above is a photo from that Mass on 7 June.
A call for new members
Each council and province is charged with doing its best to bring in new members so I thought it was time to use this column to support that effort. Are you a Catholic man seeking deeper purpose, brotherhood and a way to live out your faith in action? If so, the KSC invites you to consider joining our order—a community of Catholic men dedicated to serving the Church, supporting our clergy, and making a real difference in our parishes and communities.
In today’s world, it is easy to feel disconnected or unsure of how to live out your faith beyond Sunday Mass. The Knights offer a meaningful path forward. Through charitable works, spiritual development and fraternal support, we help each other grow as men of faith, husbands, fathers, and leaders.
You do not need to be perfect or have all the answers—just a willingness to serve and a heart open to God’s call. Whether it is helping the vulnerable, supporting youth or defending the dignity of life, your time and talents can have a lasting impact.
Joining the Knights is more than volunteering—it is becoming part of a legacy of faith in action. Stand with us. Walk with us. Grow with us.
You can find more information on our website at www.ksc.org.uk. If you would like to arrange a visit to your local council meeting, then please contact me via Philonline2@btinternet.com.
News from around the Councils
• Council 146 Southport
In the council’s centenary year, the Knights are busy raising funds and supporting local charities, including with a recent donation to Christ the King High School in Southport. The image below shows Brothers Tony Hogan and David Chilton with staff and pupils from the school after their presentation of a cheque following a fundraising ‘metric marathon relay’. Several social events are also planned, including a summer family barbecue on 31 August and a presentation evening on 11 October.
Brothers Tony Hogan (GK) and David Chilton (Treasurer) from Council 146 - Southport with staff and pupils from Christ The King RC High School, Southport after the cheque presentation following their fundraising metric marathon relay.
If you are interested in finding out more about the KSC or arranging a visit to your local council meeting, then please contact me at Philonline2@btinternet.com Phil Woods, Provincial Publicity Officer
Dialogue and Unity Social engagement recognised by Josephine Butler awards
By Ultan Russell
The Josephine Butler Memorial Trust’s Annual Eucharist and Awards Ceremony took place at Liverpool Cathedral on 2 June. The trust, which celebrates the life and work of Butler, an Anglican lay woman, writer and lobbyist with a passion for social justice, honours church-related organisations and individual Christians from the Liverpool city region.
Faith-based social engagement is a key aspect and the recipients of the awards all made significant contributions, starting with Jenny Sinclair, who collected the Woman of the Year prize. The daughter of Bishop David Sheppard, she is the founder and director of Together for the Common Good, a charity which arranges seminars, courses and training on Catholic Social Teaching widely used and valued by a range of denominations.
The Volunteer of the Year award went to Joyce Hunt, the widow of a priest, who is a highly active member of St John’s Anglican parish in Birkdale and, moreover, a driving force for The Learning Rooms, a community initiative company for adults with learning disabilities in Southport.
The award for an organisation went to Mission in the Economy (MitE). Established in the 1950s as the Liverpool Industrial Mission by the Anglican Diocese of Liverpool, it is today supported by all Merseyside churches as well as the local authorities and other organisations to run chaplaincy projects in workplaces and the retail sectors of Liverpool, Sefton, Skelmersdale, St Helens and Warrington. Their chaplaincy projects work in an inclusive way which can be of service to the general population regardless of faith, belief, or views.
Chaplains, paid or voluntary, aim to provide a listening ear, offering encouragement and support and, when required, pointing people to external agencies. They engage in prayer or quiet spaces and multi-faith rooms, which ensure a peaceful setting for those they encounter. The award was received by
MitE’s executive director, Laura Hutcheon, and Janet Keeffe, one of the two trustees from the Archdiocese.
The scholarship to undertake an international visit went to Elisabeth Hachmoeller who has worked at Liverpool Hope University on the Global Hope Initiative for over 20 years and as ecumenical co-ordinator of Churches Together in the Merseyside Region for over a decade. She is a member of the Roby-based international Focolare Movement which is committed to promoting ecumenism and partnership.
Finally, the trust donated £4,000 to Churches Together in the Merseyside Region’s November 2025 conference marking the 40th anniversary of the Faith in the City report – a report which echoed so much of the pioneering work of Archbishop Worlock and Bishop Sheppard.
A prayer for volunteers from the Girls’ Brigade: Loving God,
We thank You for the incredible dedication of all volunteers –those who have faithfully served for decades and those just beginning their journey.
We celebrate the joy, confidence, and lifelong friendships found through volunteering
We see the lasting impact made on children, young people, and communities.
Lord, we ask You to inspire new hearts to step forward –to give their time, however small, and discover the blessing of service.
Help us to share the load, welcome new hands, and continue shaping lives for Your glory. Amen.
