Issue 232 December 2023
FREE
Isle of Man Cathedral Inaugurated INSIDE THIS MONTH
Archdiocese’s Sixth #Liverpool 4Ukraine Aid trip a Success
National Tribunal Service launched
contents From the Archbishop’s Desk I am always amazed by the lengths to which people go to make Christmas special. If we turn to a Christmas which really celebrates the birth of our saviour and has the religious celebrations at the heart of our family Christmas, then we will get more out of the feast. I know that recent years have been very hard for people. One way or another, we have all been affected by COVID-19 and the economic turndown, yet people still push out the boat at Christmastime. This is a witness to the wonderful human spirit which overcomes difficulties, but sometimes people go too far and find themselves in deep debt after the festivities are over without much hope of ever paying it off. But there is no need for that. The best Christmases I remember are always about midnight Mass, singing carols, being with people we love and enjoying being together. The fun often comes from sharing memories, from singing songs and telling stories, not from expensive presents and too much rich drink and food. We should always have at the centre of our enjoyment the story of the first Christmas, when Jesus was born in a land under military occupation in temporary accommodation in Bethlehem. His birth brought joy to Mary and Joseph and the shepherds in the nearby fields. At this festive time, we must not forget those suffering in the Holy Land today as well as those in need at home. May the Joy of our saviour’s birth bring happiness to you and your families.
Contents:
Most Reverend Malcolm McMahon OP Archbishop of Liverpool
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Main Feature I sle of Man’s Cathedral is Inaugurated
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Sunday Reflections
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From the archives A spiritual stock-check
Monthly prayer intentions The Holy Father’s prayer intentions entrusted to his worldwide prayer network for the year 2023:
December
14 Pastoral Ponderings 15 What’s On What’s happening in the archdiocese
For people with disabilities Let us pray that people with disabilities may be at the centre of attention in society, and that institutions may offer inclusion programmes that value their active participation. www.popesprayer.va
Editor Harriet Anwyl Editorial Catholic Pictorial Magazine, St Margaret Clitherow Centre, Liverpool Archdiocesan Office, Croxteth Drive, Liverpool L17 1AA Tel: 0151 522 1007 Email: catholicpictorial@rcaol.co.uk Advertising Sales team 0151 709 7567 sales@cpmmmedia.com Pictures Nick Fairhurst www.nickfairhurstphotographer.com Glen Whorrall, Wirral Council Website: www.catholicpic.co.uk Twitter: @PicCatholic Youtube: CPMM Media
9 News News from around the archdiocese
16 Profile Linda Morris 17 Cathedral Record 27 Animate Youth Ministry 28 Pic Extras Mums the word News from the KSC
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29 Nugent News Nugent Gala 2023 30 Dialogue and Unity
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Isle of Man’s Cathedral is Inaugurated May it be a testimony to the ancient faith present in this place, and a symbol of hope for future generations that Christ is truly king
St Mary of the Isle in Douglas celebrated becoming a Co-cathedral of the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King on Friday 3 November. ‘I welcome you to this unique day in the life of our archdiocese,’ said Archbishop Malcolm McMahon, addressing the congregation inside the new Co-cathedral of Saint Mary of the Isle, Douglas, on 3 November. ‘I welcome each and every one of you to witness this day when the Catholic community receives a gift from the Holy Father – the gift of a cathedral church on this island.’
It was a unique occasion in the British Isles, the service of inauguration of St Mary of the Isle as co-cathedral, and a moment of celebration for the Archdiocese of Liverpool as it became the first diocese in the British Isles to have this honour of ‘two cathedrals’ – one in Liverpool, the other on the Isle of Man. As Archbishop Malcolm observed, St Mary of the Isle, just like the Metropolitan Cathedral, would now have on its sanctuary a bishop’s chair or cathedra. ‘As of today, this building will contain my cathedra as the Archbishop of this local church of Liverpool Archdiocese, of which the people of the Isle of Man are a dear and treasured part,’ he said. To mark the occasion, the Isle of Man welcomed for the first time an Apostolic Nuncio as His Excellency Archbishop 4
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Miguel Maury Buendía, acting on behalf of Pope Francis, made the journey to Douglas to install Archbishop Malcolm in his chair. ‘I bring to all the greetings and the blessings of His Holiness Pope Francis,’ said the Nuncio.
Reading the rite of installation during the service, Archbishop Maury said: ‘May this new cathedral church be a symbol of unity and communion within your local Church, which encompasses the Isle of Man and the city and surrounding territories of Liverpool.
May it be a testimony to the ancient faith present in this place, and a symbol of hope for future generations that Christ is truly king.’ The significance of the occasion to the Isle of Man was writ large by the local dignitaries present. These included the president of Tynwald, the Manx parliament, The Hon Laurence Skelly; the chief minister, The Hon Alfred Cannan; and the mayor of the city of Douglas, Councillor Natalie Byron-Teare. There were other elected representatives and officials in attendance, together with figures from other Christian churches on the island and parishioners of St Mary & St Joseph’s and St Anthony’s, Onchan, and the island’s other Catholic parishes.
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‘This is an important moment in the history of the Isle of Man, an important time for all of the people – not just for the Catholic community,’ said Archbishop Malcolm. To underline the point, there was a notable local flavour to the service with the reading of the Lord’s Prayer in Manx Gaelic and also the singing of the Manx national anthem. There was a youthful presence too, as the choir of St Mary’s Primary School sang one of the hymns. Ceremonial Cloak’s Connection to 1967 The inauguration service began with Monsignor John Devine, the dean of St Mary of the Isle, standing at the door of the church alongside the Anglican dean of St German’s Cathedral, Peel, the Very Reverend Nigel Godfrey. They welcomed the Apostolic Nuncio and Archbishop Malcolm, the first of whom was clad in the ceremonial cloak, or cope, which had been used by Bishop Augustine Harris at the opening and consecration of the Metropolitan Cathedral on 14 May 1967. The Archbishop was required to knock on the door to seek admission and was then welcomed into the church. Processing behind them into the building were the chapter of canons of the Metropolitan Cathedral, led by Canon Anthony O’Brien.
The inauguration itself included the reading of a decree dated 27 July from the Dicastery for Bishops. This was read out by Canon Aidan Prescott, and it included the following resonant words: ‘The said church of Saint Mary of the Isle is now granted the title and degree of Co-cathedral church with all the rights, honours, and privileges, as well as the responsibilities and obligations which are proper to churches of this kind.’ Later in the service, Archbishop Malcolm joked: ‘I suppose every bishop would like a new cathedral especially when he doesn’t have to pay for it!’ On a more serious note, he added: ‘This building, which was opened in 1859, represents the joys and sorrows of successive generations of people who came here to worship and praise. Their prayers have soaked into the walls and the prayers of today’s parishioners continue to do so.’ The Archbishop also recalled how the raising of Douglas to city status in 2022 – as part of the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations – was the starting point in the process which had led to this day. When the civic authorities in Douglas subsequently asked Mgr John how their city might gain a cathedral, the wheels were set in motion.
‘This act of generosity by our much-loved sovereign has had a remarkable effect of drawing together the people of the island and the city in a common project,’ affirmed Archbishop Malcolm. ‘It is a wonderful occasion today, a landmark occasion certainly in the life of the Catholic community, but hopefully, and more importantly in many ways, in the life of the citizens of the city of Douglas and the people of the Isle of Man. ‘It is also a permanent reminder to the people of the island that they are part of a much greater and universal worldwide Church.’ The Archbishop went on to cite St Maughold, the bringer of Christianity to the Isle of Man after he had been pushed out into the Irish Sea by St Patrick and duly washed ashore on the northeast coast of the island.
Acknowledging the strong spirit of ecumenism now found on the Isle of Man – and visible in the presence at the service of representatives of the Anglican, Baptist, Methodist, and Evangelical churches as well as the Salvation Army – Archbishop Malcolm added that St Mary of the Isle was today ‘a place of welcome to all who care to come through its doors; Christians, people of faith and other faiths, and those who don’t believe anything much at all. This is a place for everyone.’
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‘Rich and ancient tradition’
Reflecting on the significance of the service and St Mary of the Isle’s new Co-cathedral status, Mgr John said: ‘It’s a coming together of several strands. Arriving on the island more than eight years ago, I was ignorant of the richness of the ancient Manx Christian tradition, an ignorance shared by many in the rest of the archdiocese. ‘I was equally unaware of the distinctiveness of everyday life on the island compared to life in Liverpool and beyond. The rest of the archdiocese is urban and industrial. In many ways, the island is like a rural English county, although its topography feels more Irish
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than British. It is a separate and proud self-governing nation, not a remote administrative district of the UK.
‘Above all, it is an island in the middle of the Irish Sea.
That not only sets it apart, but it also means that travel and communication with the rest of the archdiocese is not straightforward. Flights and ferries can be cancelled at short notice. Cathedral status for the island honours both the distinctiveness of Manx Catholicism and the richness it contributes to the rest of the Church. The unifying factor is the role of the Archbishop. He now has a seat in both parts of the archdiocese.’
On a liturgical note The television, websites, and newspapers may have us rush straight to Christmas Day, but the Liturgy of the Church invites us to pace ourselves as it places before us once again the plans and purposes of God with respect to His people. The first three weeks of Advent do not in fact mention a star or stable or shepherds. There is more concern with placing the celebration of the ‘Word made Flesh’ within the much wider context of God’s plan for each one of us, and also the perspective in which we are called to live our lives.
This is the Wisdom, the Good News, which we can share with the society around us – that the inestimable value of each and every life, from conception through to natural ending, is celebrated at Christmas because it not only speaks about where we come from and how we are to live today, but it also speaks of the perspective of the tomorrow which we are to embrace.
Sunday thoughts
The island forms one-third of the landmass of the archdiocese. Liverpool is 80 miles away across the Irish Sea, four times the distance between France and England across the English Channel. Both Scotland and Northern Ireland are a shorter distance from the island than England. Indeed, the island feels more like Ireland than England.
As I write, we are recovering from the inauguration of the Cathedral Church of Saint Mary of the Isle, Douglas, as co-cathedral of the Archdiocese of Liverpool. It was good to have so many of our chapter of canons present on Friday 3 November as Archbishop Malcolm McMahon was led to his chair or cathedra by the Apostolic Nuncio.
Canon Philip Gillespie
The words of Pope Saint Leo the Great which we read in the Divine Office at Christmas are ones which, in the current circumstances, seem to have great resonance: ‘Christian, remember your dignity, and now that you share in God’s own nature, do not return by sin to your former base condition. Bear in mind who is your head and of whose body you are a member. Do not forget that you have been rescued from the power of darkness and brought into the light of God’s kingdom.’ Rather than just being that ‘one-daywonder’ (whereby once 25 December is out of the way we can move on to adverts for summer holidays!) let us pray with and for each other that we may not only have the experience of our Christmas celebrations but also embrace and live its depth of meaning. Praying that you have a fruitful Advent and a rich celebration of Christmastide.
Mgr John Devine OBE
The distance between the north and south of the Isle of Man is the same as the distance between Preston and Warrington. Whereas both those towns are connected by the M6 motorway, the roads on the island are dark and winding country lanes.
I set my alarm for 4.30am to get to the airport for the early flight to Liverpool. If I return the same day, I am lucky to arrive home before 9pm. Flights are frequently delayed and sometimes cancelled. These are just a few of the things I discovered when appointed to the island in 2015. But when the sun shines, the Isle of Man is paradise.
sunday reflections
This was the first visit ever of the Holy Father’s personal representative to the Isle of Man.
The involvement of civic authorities in the inauguration ceremony, along with leaders of other Christian denominations, would have been beyond the imaginings of those present when the church was opened in 1859. Catholics were then outsiders. As recently as the 1960s, a Catholic applying to join the Isle of Man police force received a letter to say that it was not their policy to employ Catholics. Decades of engagement by our priests with other churches, as well as with both the local authority and Manx national government, have led to the point where the contribution of the Catholic community to public life is taken for granted.
Since coming to St Mary’s as parish priest, I have learned how remote the archdiocese feels to our parishioners. It is difficult for them to see the relevance of its structures and the support and oversight it brings to every aspect of parish life. The granting of co-cathedral status to St Mary of the Isle is a recognition of the island’s distinctiveness. But is also a bridge that brings the two parts of the archdiocese closer together.
The Prophet Isaiah and Advent Every year at this time I have a wager with a friend of mine. ‘How soon will it be till we hear the first Christmas song wafting through our shopping arcades and garden centres?’ It seems as though the season of Advent is swallowed up in tinsel and wrapping paper and the season of waiting and hoping and anticipating does not seem to capture our imagination.
Yet the Advent season is all about hope – and during Advent, we use readings from the Prophet Isaiah, who is a prophet of hope. There are three different people who wrote the Book of Isaiah: 1st Isaiah was written around 750 BC, before the exile, and is contained in chapters 1-39; during the exile, another person wrote 2nd Isaiah, named the Book of Consolation, chapters 40-44; after the exile, another writer wrote 3rd Isaiah, chapters 45-66. During Isaiah’s time there were a lot of wars, and the temptation for the small kingdoms of Israel and Judah was to form alliances with Egypt or Syria or Assyria. Each time the people are tempted, Isaiah says: ‘No, trust in God – hope in God.’
We find in Isaiah the expectation of an ideal person who is going to get the people out of the mess they are in. In chapter 9, we read: ‘The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light... a child has been born to us.’ This child is the ideal Israelite who will set God’s people free. Isaiah calls him wonder-counsellor, mighty God, and the eternal father. These names combine all the great Jewish heroes: Solomon, David, and Moses. We have taken those words and applied them to Jesus, but all Isaiah sees is that one day a perfect Israelite will come to turn the people back to God. Isaiah becomes filled with the concept of ‘forever’. For the Jew, time is now, life when it ends, ends, but Isaiah has experienced God’s overwhelming and everlasting love. It is a new breakthrough in consciousness, to imagine the love that could be forever. Isaiah’s vision is full of wonderful imagery of the future when he says on the second Sunday of Advent that the Kingdom of God will be a place of peace. We have imagery of animals who are natural enemies becoming playmates and friends. It is a vision where there is no more prejudice, hate and selfishness. It takes new eyes to see that in the middle of sinfulness, something glorious is happening. These eyes can see what God was saying. The season of Advent is a space where we can recognise the coming of our loving God. In Advent, God comes to us in the darkness of our lives and of the world. The Kingdom of God is at hand and a new day is dawning and our loving God draws near to us. Father Chris Thomas
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from the archives
A spiritual stock-check by Neil Sayer, Archdiocesan Archivist
trees, but thought that “Cribs are really the dominant feature of the celebrations. Every family has one erected in a place of honour in a sitting-room or in the children’s nursery. Even the shops rejoice in them. Sometimes they are all illuminated with tiny lights; sometimes they are what the Romans call “animated”. That means that the little figures of shepherds and kings, peasants, attendants and animals all move and go about their allotted tasks in a most realistic way. It is the triumph of clockwork harnessed to the spirit of devotion.”
The Christmas crib gave Peter Moloney pause for thought. Older readers may remember Peter’s column “Only Moloney”, which ran in the Catholic Pic for many years of the 1970s and 1980s. Writing just before Christmas 1979, he noted the family reunions that take place at this joyful time of year, with children often returning from far-flung places, “and we all talk over the past, discuss our progress, and plan for our futures.” Most of our churches display a Christmas crib, and many family homes too have adopted the tradition. “We do a spiritual stock-check at the Christmas crib”, wrote Peter. It is a time, he observes, “to wonder how far we have gone along the road to God.” More prosaically, “We notice how quickly the children are growing up, and we note that there are no cards this year from more people than usual who are now at home with God.”
The custom of creating a reproduction of the Crib of Bethlehem is said to have started with St Francis of Assisi. In December 1223, 800 years ago, he created the first nativity scene. Having been to Bethlehem, and knowing of the difficulties associated with a visit to the Holy Land, he decided to recreate the manger he had seen there as a place of pilgrimage in its own right. A cave in the town of Greccio, north-east of Rome, was chosen as an ideal site to lay some hay, place a local baby and stable an ox and an ass. St Francis preached, a Mass was celebrated, the townsfolk loved it, and a tradition was founded. The town of Greccio now houses the International Museum of the Crib. After the death of St Francis, the Franciscans were given charge of the Basilica of St Mary of the Altar of Heaven in Rome. Here, they introduced the devotion to the Crib of the Nativity, and it spread very quickly, particularly associated with the Franciscan Friars. A statue of the Holy Child, the “Bambino”, became one of the treasures of the Basilica. A magazine article of 1935 – before the statue was stolen and replaced by a modern replica – described the Christmas processions associated with it, and identified many other churches in Rome with cribs. The Catholic Fireside noted foreign imports such as Christmas 8
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One local family of makers of statues for cribs was the Linskeys of Chorley, who featured in the pages of the Pic in 1965 when Dick Linskey retired and passed on the reins of the family firm to his son Joe. Parishioners of St Gregory’s, their crib sets were in such demand all over England and Europe that there was a three-year waiting list for them. The family tradition was being passed on – Joe’s sister Mary was also involved in the business, and was training her young son Michael in how to make and paint Nativity statues. Nevertheless, Joe Linskey was pessimistic about the future: “The tradition of statue-making may die out”, he said, “because the demand for them is decreasing – they are losing popularity.” Another Pic columnist, way back in the 1960s, was Monsignor Cyril Taylor. In his column published just before Christmas 1968, he mused about the tradition of church cribs. “In cathedrals, country churches, and convent chapels, the same reverence and joyous anticipation prevails”, he said, as cribs were “being prepared for the solemn moment of unveiling just before midnight Mass.” And, like Peter Moloney, he appreciated the occasion for a moment of contemplation, watching small children kneeling at the Crib with a sense of wonder: “It all adds up to a profoundly refreshing experience in a strife-torn world.”
Happy Christmas.
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News diary
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Pope Francis Urgently Calls for Peace and Humanitarian Aid in Gaza, Archbishop McMahon Leads Mass for Our Lady Queen of Palestine In response to the ongoing crisis in Gaza, Pope Francis, during his weekly Angelus prayers in mid-November, urgently called for an end to hostilities and stressed the immediate need for humanitarian aid. His plea extended to the release of hostages held by Hamas and emphasised the importance of caring for the wounded and protecting civilians in the region.
“Enough, enough brothers, enough,” declared Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square, in a speech that underscored the ineffectiveness of arms in bringing peace and discouraging the widening of the conflict. The Pope expressed solidarity with both Palestinians and Israelis, particularly highlighting the plight of children affected by the war.
As the Pope continues to advocate for peace in the Holy Land, his words resonate globally, highlighting the critical need for an end to violence and the provision of essential humanitarian assistance in the embattled region.
This unity of prayer and advocacy for peace demonstrates the Archdiocese of Liverpool’s commitment to standing in solidarity with those affected by conflicts and crises, both locally and globally.
In response to the conflict, Archbishop Malcolm McMahon has also played a crucial role in fostering prayers for peace and justice in the Holy Land. Archbishop Malcolm celebrated the Mass of Our Lady Queen of Palestine in Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral in late October.
This significant event aimed to gather the community, to pray for the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary for her homeland and all its suffering people during this challenging time. The Mass welcomed all who wished to join Archbishop Malcolm in seeking peace and justice in the Holy Land.
Best Kept Village in Lancashire Competition 2023
Our Lady and All Saints Church are delighted to have won the top award in the Class of Places of Worship and Grounds in the Best Kept Village in Lancashire Competition 2023. This is a tribute to the hard work of the team of volunteers in the grounds and cemetery.
With the assistance, on occasion, of professional groundsmen and civil engineers, some major projects have been accomplished, for example, a muchadmired feature of the grounds is the statue of Our Lady, carved from the trunk of a sycamore tree in memory of a young man who died prematurely.
The Church was built between 1876 and 1884 when it was commissioned, and the original design of the church and grounds is still the basis of the appearance of the grounds today, supported by the generations of volunteers working in the grounds without the sophistication of modern machinery. They were also supported by the Parish Priests, Ampleforth Abbey Trustees, and more recently by the Archdiocese of Liverpool in both technical advice and financial advice. The church now has a system of work that will secure the grounds’ maintenance for years to come.
Fr Daley said “Congratulations to Ian and his team of volunteers who work tirelessly and generously to maintain our grounds in the beautiful condition that they are! This award is the result of many years of effort and time that the team has put in.” The award was presented by Judge Peter Openshaw at Eaves Hall, Clitheroe on Monday 16 October, and represented at Mass the following Sunday, by Parish Priest Fr LJR Daley.
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Archdiocese’s Sixth #Liverpool4Ukraine Aid trip a Success A dedicated group of representatives from the archdiocese and Greenmount Projects, instrumental in the success of the appeal, travelled to Poland to facilitate the handover to Bishop Gregory. Martin Miller, Chief Operating Officer at the Archdiocese of Liverpool, commented: “This will be our sixth trip to the border to deliver goods for those in Ukraine. For every trip, we have adapted our processes based on our previous experiences.”
The use of a 12-tonne vehicle for the first time allowed the team to transport even more donations for those in need.” Martin acknowledged the ongoing support, saying, “The appeal would not be possible without the continued support of our archdiocese, and I would like to thank everyone who has helped or donated since we started #Liverpool4Ukraine in early 2022.” The Archdiocese of Liverpool recently completed its sixth #Liverpool4Ukraine trip, delivering essential aid to the people of Ukraine. The journey, which took place on Tuesday 24 October, saw a 12-tonne vehicle loaded with medical supplies, toiletries, crutches, Zimmer frames, blankets, and blow-up mattresses depart from the archdiocese and head to the Polish-Ukrainian border. Financial donations from the #Liverpool4Ukraine appeal, along with the support of Greenmount Projects, The Brick, Chorley & District Ukraine Support group, and the supply chain of Wrightington, Wigan, and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust, made this compassionate endeavour possible.
The aid was gratefully received by Andrew Quinlan on behalf of Bishop Gregory Komar from the Ukrainian diocese of SambirDrohobych. As the auxiliary bishop of the diocese, with a close association with the Archdiocese of Liverpool, Bishop Gregory played a crucial role in distributing the goods across the Lviv region of western Ukraine.
Bishop Gregory, who visited the archdiocesan offices in August to express his gratitude for previous aid trips, highlighted the impact of the aid, stating, “Life in Ukraine has changed – many people have lost relatives, lost jobs, lost homes, and many have had to leave Ukraine. If we didn’t get the help we’ve received, we don’t know where we’d be – it would certainly be much worse.” The Chief Operating Officer, Martin Miller, emphasised the personal touch of physically delivering aid, stating, “It is an absolute privilege for us to deliver the essential aid to the people of Ukraine. Logistically, the aid makes it easier for them to provide items that people in Ukraine so desperately need, without them having the difficulty of sourcing them. Emotionally, it gives them a positive boost that they are not alone.” The trip not only provided essential goods, but also conveyed the heartfelt prayers and support of the Archdiocese of Liverpool to the people of Ukraine. The success of #Liverpool4Ukraine reflects the compassion and generosity of the community, making a meaningful impact in the lives of those facing hardships in Ukraine.
St Joseph volunteer presented with papal medal Congratulations to Margaret Thompson, parishioner at St Joseph’s Church, Penketh, who was presented with the Benemerenti medal for her work in the Church.
She received the medal and a commemorative frame by Archbishop Malcolm McMahon during the centenary Mass at St Joseph’s. Margaret has been involved with the parish community for over 50 years in a variety of roles.
Throughout her illustrious career in the Church, she has been a teacher at St Joseph’s School, Headmistress at St Vincent’s School, Church organist, Liturgy group leader, CAFOD Leader, founder of Baptism preparation teams, Eucharist Minister preparation team, trainee of altar servers for 20 years plus, a member of the Church cleaning team and a Trustee at St Joseph’s Welfare Centre. 10
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She continued to serve the Church, even during times of ill health and problems with her sight.
She was invited onto the altar by Fr Raymond Anyanwu, CssP, who had just been inducted as the new parish priest for St Joseph’s. Afterwards, she said a few words, during which she paid tribute to former parish priest Monsignor John Butchard, who served as parish priest at St Joseph’s until 2000, when he would move on to Holy Rosary, Aintree. She said: “He really helped me, as I had just retired from working in schools at the time.”
Margaret also added that she had not received many medals in her time; the last time was in a ballroom dancing competition when she was 18!
National Tribunal Service launched, with archdiocesan priests taking key roles
Last week, the Catholic Church in England and Wales launched its National Tribunal Service (NTS), with four members of the Archdiocese of Liverpool appointed to vital roles. The NTS officially launched on Saturday 4 November at a Mass at Westminster Cathedral, celebrated by Cardinal Vincent Nichols.
The purpose of the National Tribunal is to enhance impartiality, transparency, and consistency in the application of canon law across its jurisdiction in penal cases. It was established following a recommendation from the Elliot Review.
Taking on one of two Judicial Vicar roles for the first instance NTS is Canon Dr John Poland, Archbishop’s Private Secretary and Judge for our own Metropolitan Tribunal. He is joined by colleagues Canon Aidan Prescott, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, Father Sean Patrick Riley, Chancellor and Judge and Bishop Tom Neylon who are taking on the roles of Judge in first instance, Promotor of Justice in second instance and Moderator for the second instance respectively. Fr John said of his appointment: “I am delighted to be appointed as the Judicial Vicar for the first instance tribunal. “I was on the panel for the Elliot Review and my doctorate in Rome focussed on the Church’s penal law and safeguarding issues, so combined they have provided me with the knowledge and experience to fulfil this role.
“My role is based in London and requires me to examine cases first time around. The cases vary in nature and relate to all canonical offences except for those reserved to the Holy See.” Fr John sees the NTS as a positive step forward for the Catholic Church. He added: “Fairness and justice lie at the heart of our Christian life. The establishment of the NTS demonstrates the commitment of the Church in England and Wales to promote and
encourage consistent and fair practice in the determination of penal cases in accordance with the law of the Church, and so to foster confidence in a just outcome for all those involved.” He will fulfil this new role in addition to his duties as the private secretary to Archbishop Malcolm McMahon. Fr John concluded: “It has been quite the learning curve combining the two roles, as they are very different but equally as important. “Archbishop Malcolm has been incredibly supportive, and Cardinal Vincent thanked him at a function following the opening Mass for providing me with the space to be able to do this work.”
Speaking in his homily during the Mass, Cardinal Vincent Nichols said: “Today is a most significant day in the life of the Church in England and Wales, and indeed for the Church more widely. This National Tribunal, established specifically for the application of penal law in the Church, is a focus of practical love and service. It is established to ensure that the rights and obligations of all the Christian faithful are upheld, robustly and impartially, and that justice and equality must prevail. This is love in action. “By setting up this National Tribunal, the Church in England and Wales is recommitting itself to this pursuit of justice for all those who find themselves involved in the Church’s penal system, from complainants and the accused to witnesses and others involved in giving evidence to victims and those found guilty of an offence, always and in every case reflecting the dignity of each person.”
The decree establishing the Tribunal was proposed and passed by the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales at their November 2022 Plenary Assembly following the recommendations of the Elliott Review into Safeguarding Structures and Practice in the Church. The Apostolic Signatura, the Holy See’s Supreme Tribunal that ensures that justice in the Church is correctly administered, granted approval for this National Penal Tribunal on 4 May 2023.
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Over 70,000 Catholics call for World Bank to protect farmers’ seed rights 70,000 parishioners from one-third of all Catholic parishes in England and Wales have signed a letter from Salina, a small-scale farmer from Bangladesh, to the World Bank. Over 10,000 of these were from 92 Catholic churches in Liverpool Archdiocese. This is three times higher than any previous CAFOD campaign.
Salina wrote her letter to the World Bank calling for the protection of the fundamental rights of small farmers like herself to use their own seed varieties – a right that is increasingly under threat as big seed companies have come to dominate the global seed market. “Seeds are at the heart of everything that farmers like me do,” the letter says. “Without control over our seeds, our work as a farmer is not possible.”
762 parishes in England and Wales signed the letter with CAFOD in support of Salina this summer. Upon hearing this news, Salina said, “I am very happy to know about 70,000 signatures along with mine.” Bishop Tom Neylon from the Archdiocese of Liverpool was the first of 18 bishops to sign the letter. Bishop Tom supported the campaign because it highlighted the situation that small-scale farmers around the world are increasingly finding themselves in. He said, “Caught in a huge power imbalance with large agribusiness, even their rights to their own seeds, passed down from generation to generation, are being threatened. This can’t be right.” He urged parishes to sign Salina’s letter to the World Bank and call for change, and the response has been way beyond expectation.
businesses. In some countries, new seed laws have been insisted on by the World Bank in exchange for financial support, yet these laws have harmed those most in need.
The letter was delivered to World Bank staff in London and at the annual World Bank meetings in Marrakech, Morocco on the same day. In Morocco, Farida Akhter, who works with Salina’s community in Bangladesh, presented the letter to the Bank’s Global Director for Agriculture and Food. In London, 40 CAFOD campaigners took the letters to the World Bank UK offices, and a small group met with a senior Bank representative inside the building.
CAFOD’s Campaigns Engagement Manager, Andrea Speranza, said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who signed Salina’s letter. Her message to the World Bank has been heard loud and clear: unfair rules putting pressure on small farmers to buy commercial seeds aren’t acceptable. This is just the beginning of a long campaign, but it is a very promising start.”
CAFOD’s Fix the Food System campaign is urging the UK government and the World Bank, whose job it is to support governments of developing nations to end poverty, to protect the right of farmers around the world to save, use, exchange and sell their own seeds rather than having to buy them from huge agri-
St Thomas of Canterbury Church, St Helens, to remain open Parishioners of St Thomas of Canterbury Church in St Helens are thrilled to hear that, following its closure and trial reopening, the church will remain open. The church was closed in 2020 due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic, however it was provisionally reopened for 12 months last November following a consultation. At the end of this provisional period, a meeting was held by Fr Philip Inch, Episcopal Vicar for Pastoral Organisation and Synod Implementation, to review progress. 82 people attended the meeting, which according to the parish newsletter, showed “the strength of support for the church remaining open.”
Following the meeting, Fr Inch gave his recommendation that the church remain open to the Archbishop’s Advisory Group. Fr Inch said: “Following the consultation meeting that took place on Wednesday, October 18, concerning the future of St Thomas of Canterbury Church, I’m delighted to announce that Archbishop Malcolm McMahon has accepted the recommendation that the church should remain open for public worship.” 12
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Fr Michael Harwood, parish priest for the church, added: “I would like to thank all of the parishioners of the church for everything they have done during the past 12 months, and what they have committed to doing in the years ahead.”
The church is now seeking volunteers for roles including Eucharistic Ministers, readers, and welcomers.
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pastoral Pastoral ponderings by Paul Pimblett
Our Father
It has been nearly two months since I began studying at Allen Hall in Chelsea alongside Rhys J, my fellow diocesan seminarian, and others from around the country. Despite the days becoming shorter and colder, and the workload slowly increasing, it is fair to say that we have settled in well.
One of the questions I am often asked nowadays is, what part of seminary do I enjoy the most? First and foremost, it has to be the access and close proximity to the chapel. Being able to spend time with the Lord, truly present in the Tabernacle, in silent prayer, is a great privilege and one I never take for granted. We are called to draw closer to and know the Lord more intimately, especially in seminary, and spending time in His presence is one of the best ways to do so. However, there is another aspect of seminary life that I have greatly enjoyed so far on my journey and that is community life itself.
Since I began living in a community last year I have found that it has many benefits, not just in the context of discernment and prayer, but wider human formation. Aspects of community living such as a regular prayer routine, daily Mass, and even communal meals all help to keep you grounded in an otherwise busy schedule of study and pastoral work. Coming together as a house for these events also helps to forge a genuine sense of community, brotherhood, and prayerfulness. We are also reminded that the Lord said when two or more are gathered in His name, He is there in their midst. It is in this setting that relationships and friendships are forged that become crucial to our formation as, God willing, future priests yet also well-rounded men. It is no mistake that the stage of formation I am at is called ‘Discipleship’ as I seek to follow the example of the Lord’s chosen 12 in their journey alongside Him. In my short time in formation so far, I have found great value in living alongside my brother seminarians. Sharing a common goal, albeit by slightly different routes, is a great comfort. As we all walk together we are able to guide, support or even correct one another as we continue to conform ourselves to the Lord’s example and discern His will for our lives.
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This December, we are entering a year of prayer, focussing on the Our Father, in preparation for the Jubilee year in 2025; a rather appropriate time of the year, as Advent has always been a time of preparation. Perhaps we can use this opportunity to get back to the basics of our prayer life; to consider what, how and why we pray. The Our Father encompasses several themes in such a simple prayer and, most importantly, was given to us by Jesus Himself. As Pope Francis said: “When we pray the “Our Father”, we connect with the Father Who loves us, but it is the Spirit Who gives us this connection, this feeling of being children of God” (General Audience, 14.03.2018). Pope Benedict XVI, in his book ‘Jesus of Nazareth’, also reflected on the point that “The “Our Father” begins with a great consolation: we are allowed to say “Father”. This personal interaction with God shows the familial aspect of His love for us. How wonderful it is that the “Our Father” always uses inclusive words, such as ‘we’ and ‘us’. We are all a family of God when we pray this prayer, we are unifying ourselves with God and with each other.” Our spirituality is an essential tool in navigating the challenges of our time. Our Pastoral Plan encourages us to
be ‘bold and courageous in new ways’ and it is with God’s grace we will be able to do this. Our individual faith journeys are intensely personal. We each have our own burdens to bear and our own joys to celebrate. I’ve previously written about how inspired I’ve been by the Synod’s reflection of ‘Enlarge the Space of your Tent’ (Isaiah 54:2) as it is important we don’t just look inwardly to the family we know, but that we seek to encourage others to enter our tent and experience the warmth of God’s love through our community. The Pope’s prayer intention for this month of December is “For persons with disabilities” and after the positive feedback we received from our workshop for ‘Welcoming people with Autism into our Parishes’, I am pleased to announce that over the next year, we will be offering a series of workshops exploring how we can further welcome and support people with disabilities and other needs into our communities and ministries.
As we enter this advent period of preparation and waiting, perhaps we can consider how we may use this year of prayer to focus on our spiritual life, to enter a deeper relationship with God.
what’s on Saturday 2 December The Power of the Word The third and final Come and See day held by the Irenaeus Project in 2023. The day will be led by Michael Winstanley. For more information, please contact jenny@ irenaeus.co.uk or phone 0151 949 1199 RCIA Workshop 11:00AM - 12:30PM Following feedback from our previous series of workshops, we have arranged a second list of meetings for anyone who coordinates or helps at RCIA meetings to come together for a catch-up, training and sharing of resources meeting. This will be a continuation of the discussion we began in September, but if you were unable to attend previously, you’re very welcome to join us now. To book your place, please email rcia@rcaol.org.uk Metropolitan Cathedral Sunday 3 December An Advent Sequence 5:00PM As the season of Advent begins, the cathedral choir and clergy offer a sequence of music and readings to prepare us for the Advent journey. The service lasts around 70 minutes and features the choir singing from a variety of places around the cathedral. Metropolitan Cathedral Wednesday 6 December Advent Evening of Recollection 7:00PM An Advent Evening of Recollection for Men, organised by the Wigan and District Catholic Men’s Society will take place in St Patrick’s Church on 6 December. The evening will include a talk by CMS Chaplain and Parish Priest Fr Ian O’Shea, and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, concluding with Night Prayer and Benediction. Afterwards, refreshments will be served in the Lappin Room. All men are welcome. St Patrick, Wigan, Hardybutts, WN1 3RZ Thursday 7 December Vatican II Constitutions Lecture & Seminar Series Event 2 3:00PM - 7:00PM The second event of the Vatican II Constitutions Lecture and Seminar Series will take place in December at Liverpool Hope University. This can also be viewed online. The speaker will be Paul McPartlan, who will be giving a talk on Lumen Gentium. The day starts with a seminar, then refreshments, before ending with a lecture. Please book your place online at http://bit.ly/3Ql4e5R
Sunday 10 December LGBT+ Catholic Gathering 2:00PM The next LGBT+ Catholic gathering will take place in Golborne, just off the East Lancs Road. This is an invitation to come for a time of reflection and prayer. All are welcome. St Catherine of Siena & All Saints, Golborne, High Street, WA3 3BG A Ceremony of Carols 3:00PM The boy choristers join harpist Elizabeth McNulty to perform Benjamin Britten’s sequence of carol texts by English poets. The performance lasts around 40 minutes and is free to attend, with a retiring collection. Metropolitan Cathedral Monday 11 December RCIA Workshop 6:30PM -8:00PM Following feedback from our previous series of workshops, we have arranged a second list of meetings for anyone who coordinates or helps at RCIA meetings to come together for a catch-up, training and sharing of resources meeting. This will be a continuation of the discussion we began in September, but if you were unable to attend previously, you’re very welcome to join us now. To book your place, please email rcia@rcaol.org.uk St Bede, Widnes, Leigh Avenue, WA8 6EL Wednesday 13 December RCIA Workshop 6:30PM - 8:00PM Following the feedback from our previous series of workshops, we have arranged a second list of meetings for anyone who coordinates or helps at RCIA meetings to come together for a catch up, training and sharing of resources meeting. This will be a continuation of the discussion we began in September, but if you were unable to attend previously, you’re very welcome to join us now. To book your place, please email rcia@rcaol.org.uk St Joseph, Wrightington, Crow Orchard Lane, Wrightington, WN6 9PA Friday 15 December MerseyWave Community Choir Christmas Concert at St Ambrose RC Church, Heathgate Avenue, L24 7RS. Special guest: Joe McNabb (Saxophone). Musical Director: Jason Ellis. Piano/Organ Accompanist: Andrew Wileman. Light refreshments will be available, as well as a raffle. Admission is free, but we ask that you provide a donation upon entrance.
December Saturday 16 December A Celebration of Christmas 7:00PM All are welcome to the Metropolitan Cathedral for a family Christmas concert with music from the choirs and carols for all to sing. Tickets can be purchased below. They are priced at £10 each, or £18 Metropolitan Cathedral Sunday 17 December Festival Carol Service 5:00PM A traditional carol service with carols for all to sing, and seasonal music sung by the choir. Metropolitan Cathedral Tuesday 19 December Cursillo Christmas Ultreya – Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. Mass will be celebrated at 7.30pm followed by a social in the Gibbard Room. All are welcome. For further details visit www.cursillouk.org Friday 22 December Christmas by Candlelight 7:00PM The Metropolitan Cathedral will be providing a two-course Christmas supper by candlelight in the Crypt Concert Room. You will get a welcome drink of fizz on arrival, and you will be able to listen to the Cathedral Youth Choir singing festive favourites. Tickets are priced at £50.00 per person. For more information, email Claire Hanlon on c.hanlon@metcathedral.org.uk Metropolitan Cathedral Sunday 24 December Midnight Mass 2023 11:30PM We are delighted to announce that Midnight Mass, celebrated by Archbishop McMahon OP, will be broadcast live on BBC Radio 4 this year, from the Metropolitan Cathedral with the Cathedral Choir. The start time is 23.30 and the congregation are asked to be in their seats by 23.15. No tickets are required. Metropolitan Cathedral Wednesday 27 December CAFOD Christmas Fun Run at The Mystery, Wavertree Athletics Centre, Wellington Road, Liverpool, L15 4LE. Walk, run, roll, or stroll this festive fun run with a difference. Gather friends, family and fourlegged friends to continue the Christmas cheer, all whilst burning off that Christmas indulgence! Registration opens at 10am, the fun run starts at 11am. Contact events@cafod.org.uk for a sponsor form. Please sign up and gather sponsorship by visiting cafod.org.uk/christmasfunrun Can’t make it on the day? Don’t miss out, join in virtually wherever you are!
Website at www.liverpoolcatholic.org.uk Catholic Pictorial
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Linda Morris on what we can do to help Care for our Creation by Steven Hughes All Saints Golborne parishioner and Care for Creation facilitator Linda Morris has set out things we can all do to help care for our creation.
Linda, a former geotechnical engineer, has been involved with Care for Creation for a few years now, after attending a presentation by archdiocese Catholic social action coordinator Pablo Guidi, and believes time is running out if we are to reverse the damage. Archbishop Malcolm McMahon has previously said he is aware of his responsibility as a steward of creation and shared some of what the archdiocese is doing in his Pastoral Letter (published in October 2023’s issue), which marked the end of the 2023 Care for Creation period.
Linda believes the first step is to educate people on what they can do differently to help save the planet. “We are desperately running out of time,” she said. “We have to act now. “The governments are not doing much about it. They’re promising things, but they’re breaking their promises. “But individually, we can all do something. We can’t sit back and say, ‘the governments and big companies are doing nothing’.
“Educating people is key. Once people realise that they can do something, they want to do it. “People say ‘it’s not for me’ because they don’t understand. We’ve got to educate people, and then people are happy to be involved.” Going further, when asked about what she is doing herself to reduce her carbon footprint, she was able to give detailed examples, from recycling clothes to switching the lights off.
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She added: “I’ve worked out my carbon footprint at home, and my carbon footprint at the parish. “We’re recycling, turning the heating down, turning lights off when we don’t need them, watching television in the dark – when you watch television, you don’t need lights on.
“We try to eat less meat – I’m a pesce-pollotarian [someone who eats white meat and fish]. We’re trying to eat more vegetables, we are trying to go for walks more often, we don’t buy clothes as often; you can just patch and mend things. You can stick nice motifs on holes in things and get a whole new wardrobe!
“You can buy t-shirts from the World Wildlife Fund. They have a scheme whereby when you’re fed up with your t-shirts, or if it’s falling to bits, you can send it back to them. They’ll recycle it, but also give you a five-pound voucher for your next t-shirt.” Going forward, she hopes to be able to spread the word across the archdiocese and beyond. She said: “It’s going to spread through to parishes first. “I can see it being rolled out, through parishes, through word of mouth. People who are involved, all the people who were on Pablo’s training session, they’ll go back to their parishes with it, and it’ll just snowball. “It’s just going to increase once the word gets out there. Once Pablo’s workshops are held, and people get involved, they’ll spread the word.”
We have a number of Care for Creation workshops and activities coming up in the New Year, including a conference at the St Margaret Clitherow Centre in March. If you head to the Events section of the Archdiocese of Liverpool website, you will find all the information you need, including how to sign up.
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A celebration of Christmas by Dr Christopher McElroy Director of Music, Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral
Canon Anthony O’Brien – Cathedral Dean
The beginning of a new liturgical year is perhaps the most beautiful time of year in the Cathedral. The liturgical season of Advent, one of expectation for the coming of the Christ child, is intertwined with the many carol services and concerts that take place in the Cathedral. Listed below are some of the main musical performances during December: Sunday 3 December, 3pm Advent Sequence
As the season of Advent begins, the cathedral choir and clergy offer a sequence of music and readings to prepare us for the Advent journey.
Sunday 10 December, 3pm Benjamin Britten’s A Ceremony of Carols Benjamin Britten’s famous carol sequence will be sung by the Boy Choristers following a shorter Evening Prayer.
Saturday 16 December, 7pm A Celebration of Christmas
A magical night of Christmas carols and seasonal favourites. Featuring The Metropolitan Cathedral Choir, The Rock Choir and Knowsley Catholic Children’s Choir. Tickets: £10 each/£18 family www.ticketsource.co.uk/metcathedral
Cathedral Record
Sunday 17 December, 5pm Festival Carol Service
A mix of seasonal music, readings and congregational carols.
For the first time since 2017, Midnight Mass will be broadcast live on BBC Radio 4. Archbishop Malcolm McMahon OP will preside and preach, and the Cathedral Choir will sing the Missa Brevis of Jonathan Dove and ‘O Holy Night’ by Adolphe Adam. A brass quartet will join the organ to provide accompaniment to popular congregational carols such as ‘O Come, all ye faithful’ and ‘Hark the Herald Angels Sing.’ In addition to broadcasting Midnight Mass, the BBC will record (on December 23rd) a Mass for Eastertide to be broadcast in April 2024! May we at the Cathedral Music Department wish each and every one of you a blessed and peaceful Christmas.
The First Sunday of Advent falls on 3 December, which is the latest Advent can start, making the Season very short this year.
This will probably have a significant impact on the celebration of the Fourth Sunday on the 24th for both congregations and their priests. There are charity carol concerts and services throughout the month and numerous school prize-givings and special events within the cathedral. These are all well-advertised elsewhere, so for this month I will concentrate on the final cathedral celebrations for the end of Advent and Christmas. On Saturday 16 at 7pm, there is our own Cathedral Christmas Concert, ”A Celebration of Christmas,” involving various choirs and the Mozart orchestra for a festival of Christmas music. Following this on Sunday 17 at 5pm, we have our Cathedral Festival Carol Service.
This year BBC Radio 4 want to broadcast Midnight Mass live from the cathedral. Because we will need to finish in time for the Shipping Forecast at 12.45 (apparently an immovable feast) it means that this Mass will have to begin at 11.30pm on Christmas Eve. Hence, on Saturday 23, there will be both a rehearsal for the Midnight Mass with the BBC in the afternoon as well as a recording being made of Mass celebrated earlier in the day with our Youth Choir and Bishop Tom Neylon, which they will use later in the year for the morning service for the Third Sunday of Easter. So, we will have to have split seasonal personalities that day. Masses on the Fourth Sunday of Advent will be as normal in the morning, but then we begin to celebrate the Feast of Christmas from the afternoon beginning with the First Vespers of Christmas and Blessing of the Crib at 3pm. There is a Vigil Mass in the cathedral at 6pm, and then Archbishop Malcolm will preside at the Midnight Mass, which will start at 11.30pm. Our Masses on Christmas Day are at 9am, 10am in the Crypt and at 11pm with also a Mass celebrated by Fr Peter in the Hospital and the distribution of communion on the wards to the sick. On behalf of all the Cathedral Clergy and staff I wish you a Blessed Advent and a Happy Christmas.
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education news
SJCMAT makes huge investment in staff’s professional development As part of their ongoing journey, St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust (SJCMAT) has placed great emphasis on the professional development of its staff across the trust. This emphasis has seen several new initiatives, training and experiences created for staff.
On 17 November, the trust came together for its annual conference, this year with the theme ‘Delivering a World-Class Catholic Education’. As a trust, its improvement strategy is based on several important active ingredients, and a key focus for the conference was the importance of deliberate practice across all strands. The trust welcomed a special guest speaker, Ruth Miskin CBE. Founder of Read Write Inc., Ruth Miskin is one of the UK’s leading authorities on teaching children to read. Ruth led a session in the morning for primary teachers, educational support staff and leaders. CEO Andrew Truby said: “It was a real privilege to have Ruth Miskin at our conference. Across the trust, reading is a key priority, and we are determined that every child will learn to read.
“Ruth’s session, ‘Reading Changes Everything’, inspired all colleagues around the transformative power of reading. Following the session, which was a call to action, we worked in school groups to complete an audit and action plan to ensure that all of the conditions for success are in place.” The conference also featured the trust’s ‘Transforming Lives Awards’ – a series of awards designed to recognise the exceptional work of colleagues and teams. One award is the SJCMAT Christ at the Centre Award – for the colleagues or team that has furthered their Catholic mission the most. Together with organisations dedicated to staff development, St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust is investing heavily in progression for all within the trust. They are incredibly proud of their achievements and look forward to the journey ahead.
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Catholic schools and staff honoured at the Educate Awards Two Catholic schools and a support staff member from a Catholic primary school within the Archdiocese of Liverpool were crowned winners at the Educate Awards on Friday, 17 November. There were:
· St Margaret Mary’s Catholic Junior School received the Community Partnership Award · Philip McGowan from Holy Rosary Catholic Primary School won School Support Star of the Year, sponsored by SupplyWell
· Hope Academy took home the Careers & Enterprise Award, sponsored by Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Careers Hub
St James’ Catholic High School in Cheadle, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Wallasey and St Mary’s Catholic College in Wallasey (Wirral) were all finalists at the big event and are from the Diocese of Shrewsbury.
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Wallasey, won the Outstanding Commitment to Sport in Primary School award, a category sponsored by Liverpool School Sports Partnership (LSSP). The Educate Awards showcase the hard work and creativity in the education sector, from STEM and performing arts to sports and literacy. In partnership with ASL and Ricoh, the Educate Awards took place at the Liverpool Cathedral and welcomed over 700 guests.
Catholic schools from other Dioceses also made this year’s final including Cardinal Langley RC High School in Rochdale, St Joseph’s Primary School in Oldham and St Damian’s Roman Catholic Science College in Ashton-under-Lyne from the Diocese of Salford.
There was a delicious gala dinner and glittering entertainment from the region’s schools. Kim O’Brien, founder of the Educate Awards, said: “Congratulations to all the Catholic schools that won at this year’s Educate Awards! A big well done to the runners-up and finalists too.” Associate sponsors of the Educate Awards 2023 include: All About STEM, Angel Solutions, CER, CPMM Media Group, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Careers Hub, Liverpool John Moores University, LSSP, SENDSCOPE, and SupplyWell.
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1. The Height performance 2. The Hollins performance 3. Guests enjoy the drinks reception 4. Rainford High’s Beauty & the Beast 5. People enjoying the pre-ceremony atmosphere 6. Holy Rosary Catholic Primary School 7. Maricourt Catholic High School 8. St Elizabeth’s Catholic Primary School 9. Notre Dame Catholic College 10. Hope Academy 11. St Margaret Mary’s Catholic Junior School 12. Great Crosby Catholic Primary School 13. St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School 14. The event at the cathedral was a huge success
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education news Bishop Tom Williams blesses school support centre for students with mental health needs St John Bosco Arts College welcomed Right Reverend Tom Williams, Catholic Auxiliary Bishop of Liverpool, to bless the school’s Oratory.
The school utilises the space as a support centre for students with mental health needs. It acts as a safe space where students who struggle to attend five lessons per week, five days a week, can have some downtime from school life. Students are referred to The Oratory by their year head and work on a programme that helps support and manage their mental health needs. Students can take part in self-soothing exercises like craft activities.
To ensure students are supported to reach their full potential, the programme also provides time for them to engage in curriculum activities. The space has been transformed into a calm and safe space to meet the needs of students.
Mr Darren Gidman said: “It was an honour to welcome Bishop Tom into St John Bosco Arts College, and we feel very privileged that he took the time to bless The Oratory. “Our school is built on faith, so it was fantastic for our students to meet with such a prominent figure in the Catholic church and our city region.” Bishop Tom also met with the school council and spoke to Year 8 pupils about their upcoming confirmations.
The visit concluded with a tour of the school’s state-of-theart facilities before Bishop Tom joined the student leadership team and CAFOD youth leaders’ group for lunch.
When the new school opened in 2014, the whole building was blessed. However, since The Oratory was transformed into a new mental health space, the school was keen to have Bishop Tom bless it. As part of his visit, Bishop Tom also met with headteacher, Mr Darren Gidman, and head of RE and Catholic Life, Mrs Danielle Tomkins.
Student sleepover at St John Bosco for The Whitechapel Centre A student sleepover was held at St John Bosco Arts College, Croxteth, to raise money for charity The Whitechapel Centre. 50 pupils from Years 7 and 8 headed to the Storrington Avenue school for the sleepover, where they took part in activities and discussions around homelessness. Students watched movies, read books using torchlight and created their own cardboard sturdy dens. An on-site soup kitchen was set up for the event.
Throughout the sleepover, pupils and staff spoke widely about homelessness and ways to support homeless people and the resources to escape unfortunate living situations.
This discussion was amplified by the visit of two guest speakers from The Whitechapel Centre, who informed students about homelessness in Liverpool, moving stories about people they have supported, and the vital work that the charity does. The Whitechapel Centre is a Liverpool-based homeless and housing charity that provides support to rough sleepers, people living in temporary accommodation and those at risk of becoming homeless. Students were encouraged to bring a monetary donation to the sleepover, with a total of £245 raised so far. Fundraising is ongoing.The money will help support those sleeping rough, provide necessary items for those in need, education for local individuals, and more. 22
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Mrs Tomkins, head of RE and Catholic Life and organiser of the event, said: “As a Catholic college, everything we do is rooted in gospel values and Catholic teachings. We are called to serve the poorest within our community and to ‘Love our Neighbour’.” Headteacher of St John Bosco, Mr Darren Gidman, said: “The event was an opportunity for our students to learn more about homelessness and raise vital funds for The Whitechapel Centre. Students had a fantastic time and were eager to learn more about how they could help.”
education news St Mary’s alumnus returns to represent aerospace manufacturer The St Mary’s Catholic College 2023 careers fair was one to remember, for students and staff alike.
With a huge number of well-known exhibitors in attendance, young people had the invaluable opportunity to engage with an array of representatives and find out more about potential career pathways.
The event, which runs annually, is a vital part of St Mary’s’ ongoing programme designed to inform students about the opportunities available to them and provide a platform where they can connect with educators and organisations. Present on behalf of Airbus, the largest aeronautics space company in Europe, was alumnus Callum McDowell.
Students at the school were enthralled to hear about Callum’s journey and relate to his experiences at their school.
Headteacher, Kevin Maddocks, said: “I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who was involved in our 2023 careers fair. It was wonderful to see our students so engaged with the employers, organisations and educators who kindly took time out of their busy schedules to inform our students. “We are also thrilled that we had the chance to reunite with former student, Callum McDowell, who now works at Airbus. It’s truly inspiring to witness our alumni thrive following the completion of their time at St Mary’s.”
After completing his A-levels at St Mary’s in 2019, Callum progressed to university to pursue an engineering degree apprenticeship, graduating in 2022. He now works in Broughton as part of the Airbus team. Many St Mary’s staff were taken by surprise when running into Callum at the careers fair, particularly history teacher Mr Smith, who was delighted to reunite with a former student.
Callum expressed his genuine appreciation for Mr Smith’s teaching style, and the empathetic approach that he takes, also noting that he now takes this same approach when collaborating with his colleagues.
St Mary’s College is top of the GCSE results table for Sefton…again! The latest school performance tables have been published by the Department for Education and St Mary’s College in Crosby has finished top of the GCSE results table for Sefton once again. The school’s Attainment 8 score of 60.1 is higher than all other state and independent schools in Sefton (Sefton average: 41.9, England average: 44.5). This key government measure awards schools a score based on how well pupils have performed in up
to eight qualifications, which include English, maths, three English Baccalaureate qualifications including sciences, ICT, history, geography and languages, plus three other additional approved qualifications. St Mary’s College is also the top performing school in Sefton in terms of pupils’ English and maths GCSE results: 73% of pupils achieved Grade 5 or above in both English and maths this year (Sefton average: 36%, England average: 42%) and 90% of pupils achieved Grade 4 or above in both English and Maths (Sefton average: 58%, England average: 60%).
Finally, St Mary’s College’s EBacc average point score of 5.46 is again higher than all other state and independent schools in Sefton (Sefton average: 3.56, England average: 3.87). The EBacc average point score measure calculates a pupil’s average point scores across the five pillars of the English Baccalaureate, allocating points to a pupil’s best grades and dividing by six (the science grades count in two pillars, meaning a total of six pillars) to create an average point score per pupil. St Mary’s College Principal Mike Kennedy commented: “We are delighted to have achieved the top GCSE results in Sefton once again. This official top ranking across a range of key performance measures reflects the breadth and quality of our curriculum and, of course, the hard work, commitment and excellent academic achievements of our pupils.”
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“At this Christmas, when Christ comes, will He find a warm heart? Mark the season of Advent by loving and serving others with God’s own love and concern.” Saint Teresa of Calcutta During the season of Advent, life, our schools, and colleges are busy with many different types of activities, as well as concentrating on the business of teaching and learning. The mission of Catholic Education is clear for all to see in all aspects of the schools. The Advent Wreath is visible in the school building, with students invited to light the candles as the weeks proceed. Collective Worship and assemblies are focused on the Advent theme of preparation for the birth of Jesus. The quote from Saint Teresa of Calcutta reminds us of the necessity of serving God by serving others. To truly welcome Jesus this Christmas, we must spend the Advent season praying to God and serving others. All our schools and colleges will be involved in acts of charity, from local foodbank collections, charity shoeboxes, reverse advent calendars, and much more. Some of our schools will hold carol services in local parishes, nursing homes, and even shopping centres. With the reality that 4.2 million children live in poverty - this is 29% of all children, or 9 children in every class of 30 - our schools and colleges, led by the teachers and pastoral teams, will be working hard to ensure that those children manage to have a good Christmas. A lot of this work will be done quietly and discreetly during this season of Advent.
The Nativity plays and Christmas shows will help to foster a sense of Christian community and unity. With a world that is experiencing much division and hatred, it is important to celebrate what unites us – the Christmas message of peace. Thank you to all in our schools and colleges for their vocation and service to others. Thanks to all the readers for their continuing prayers for our schools and colleges. It is much appreciated. Dear Jesus, you are the hope in our messy world. This Advent, help us slow down, listen to your voice, and focus on what’s important. We place our hope in you as we prepare our hearts to celebrate your birth on Christmas. Amen. Joan McCarthy Director of Education Archdiocese of Liverpool
Wirral students rock Friday Night Live stage in New Brighton Students from St John Plessington Catholic College and St Mary’s Catholic College performers took to the stage at the Oakland Gallery in New Brighton’s Victoria Quarter to perform a range of songs for a packed room as part of Friday Night Live.
Friday Night Live, a termly event at Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust (HFCMAT), provides students with the opportunity to showcase their musical talent in front of a large audience, celebrating their abilities and developing their confidence.
The event was hosted by Daniel Davies, owner of the Oakland Gallery, as part of an ongoing partnership with HFCMAT. Together, they bring creativity and culture into communities and schools, particularly through the Creativity Collaborative NW (C Change) which aims to unite teachers and explore the impact of creative teaching. Over 50 young people got involved and performances included headliner Fuzion, a Year 10 band from St Mary’s, and St John Plessington student, Zac, who sang Stephen Sanchez’s ‘Until I Found You’.
Laurie Smith, director of music at HFCMAT, said: “Friday Night Live was a great opportunity for our trust to showcase the amazing talent within its secondary schools. The atmosphere at these events is always fantastic, with students supporting and cheering each other on. It’s wonderful to see.
“Music is such an important aspect of school life for both St John Plessington and St Mary’s, and giving students the platform to sing and play instruments on a large scale was a great experience for them.” CEO of Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust, Andy Moor, commented: “A huge well done to all our students who got involved in Friday Night Live; you were absolutely phenomenal. It’s great to see so many of our young people find their passion on stage and perform to the local community.”
education news St Patrick’s, Wigan: A LiveSimply School! St Patrick’s Primary School, Wigan, were delighted to achieve CAFOD’s LiveSimply Award.
Over the previous academic year, the school worked tirelessly to become a community that lived sustainably, simply, and in solidarity with the poor on both a local and international level.
As part of the assessment, the school had a film produced by former pupil Lauren O’Bern, which celebrated their actions (including an afternoon tea for sick and housebound parishioners and petitioning the local MP to support CAFOD’S Fair Deal Campaign) and also featured interviews with headteacher Lisa Hobden, LiveSimply coordinator Josh Marshall, Parish Priest Father Ian O’Shea, and members of the Governing Body and the local councillor.
others and will make a real difference to the lives of those in their school, local community, and our global community”.
Josh Marshall, the school’s coordinator for the award, commented: “We are proud that the dedicated efforts of our entire St Patrick’s family have been recognised and celebrated by CAFOD. Our pupils have
proven to be excellent ambassadors for Pope Francis’ call in Laudato Si’ to become communities that care for God’s Creation and show concern for our neighbours throughout the world”. To view the school’s highly commended LiveSimply video, please visit their website at www.saintpatricks.wigan.sch.uk
Siobhan Farnell, CAFOD LiveSimply School coordinator, was delighted to confirm the school had achieved the award. She said, “St Patrick’s has truly embraced living simply, sustainably and in solidarity with the world’s poorest communities. Their actions have inspired, and will continue to inspire,
St Mark’s, Halewood, unveils mural for decorated former pupils St Mark’s Catholic Primary School in Halewood has unveiled a mural to celebrate the success of former pupils Katarina Johnson-Thompson and Jack Hunter-Spivey.
Both athletes attended the school where they posed in front of the mural with current students.
our school on Monday. A massive thank you to them both for sharing their stories with our pupils and staff. “A big thank you to the very talented Paul Curtis for his amazing artwork on our
school wall. Pupils and our whole school community will be reminded every day that they CAN achieve their potential, just like Katarina and Jack.”
Johnson-Thompson, 30, has won seven gold medals while representing Great Britain in the heptathlon, the most recent of which came earlier this year at the World Championships in Budapest. Meanwhile, Hunter-Spivey, 25, has won Paralympic bronze and Commonwealth gold medals in Paralympic Table Tennis.
The mural was designed by artist Paul Curtis, who has designed murals that can be seen across the city - from Jurgen Klopp and Anne Williams to The Beatles and the Liver Birds.
Headteacher at St Mark’s, Susan Bradshaw, said: “We were delighted that the inspirational Katarina JohnsonThompson and Jack Hunter-Spivey visited
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education news
Newton-le-Willows secondary school joins multi academy trust Hope Academy in Newton-le-Willows has officially joined All Saints Multi Academy Trust, based in Liverpool.
The secondary school, located on Ashton Road, is the fourth secondary school to be welcomed into the growing multi academy trust.
Hope Academy is a joint denominational school which serves the Diocese and Archdiocese of Liverpool. Its mission is to deliver high-quality education and to inspire excellence guided by Christian values.
Bound by the same values, All Saints Multi Academy Trust is sponsored by both the Diocese and Archdiocese of Liverpool and is inspired by the ecumenical vision of Bishop David Sheppard and Archbishop Derek Worlock of how communities are ‘stronger and better together’.
“We are committed to our core values of ‘Respect’, ‘Courage’, ‘Ambition’ and ‘Hope’, and we are confident that our relationship with All Saints Multi Academy Trust will only strengthen our ability to serve our young people.
CEO of All Saints Multi Academy Trust, Heather Duggan, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Hope Academy to our family of schools.
“Our vision is to create a multi academy trust of exceptional and distinctive Christian schools which deliver outstanding education and learning. This is something we’re well on our way to achieving, with additional schools set to join us in early 2024.”
The trust brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in managing educational institutions within a Christian framework. This collaboration will provide Hope Academy with access to valuable resources, expertise, and a supportive network. Marie Adams, principal of Hope Academy, said: “We are proud to be joining a multi academy trust that holds the same values and ethos as Hope Academy. We wholeheartedly believe that becoming a member of a family of schools will allow us to continue to grow and flourish as a community of learners.
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School choir perform at event in honour of Paul O’Grady Pupils of the St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School choir were invited to perform at a special event honouring former pupil, Paul O’Grady.
Earlier this year, the late Paul O’Grady was posthumously awarded the Freedom of the Borough award from Wirral Council, the highest honour the council can bestow on one of its citizens for his outstanding contributions to the community.
Following the news, a heart-warming tribute was broadcast on ITV with pupils of St Joseph’s speaking about Paul and how he will be remembered.
The event was held at the Birkenhead Town Hall for Paul’s family and friends to celebrate him receiving such an esteemed accolade.
A member of the Wirral council contacted St Joseph’s to invite the school choir to perform at the event. The St Joseph’s choir, consisting of 22 pupils, delivered a fantastic performance of ‘Thank You for Being Our Friend’, originally sung by The Golden Girls, and a magical rendition of ‘This is Me’ from The Greatest Showman. 26
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Emotions ran high during the performance, with several pupils moved to tears as they sang. One pupil, Ava Cairns, said: “It was a pleasure to sing for the family – I felt happy and sad. Sad because he has passed away.”
Another pupil, Ella Collins, said: “I was a bit nervous at first, but when I saw how happy they were to hear us sing, I felt quite emotional.” Noah Birchall said: “I was privileged our choir got to sing, and it was nice to see how much people enjoyed it even though they probably felt quite sad inside.” All pupils shared in the sentiment of how privileged they were to honour such a local icon. Niamh Meenan said: “It felt amazing to sing for someone who was so famous in this area, and we were able to show his family how much he meant to us.” Head of School at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Alex Turner, said: “It was an honour for our school choir to perform at such a special event. No matter where our pupils
go, they will always remain part of the St Joseph’s family. We are privileged to be a small part of Paul’s heritage and will always honour the outstanding contributions he made to the community.
“We are extremely proud of how our pupils conducted themselves, demonstrating respect for Paul’s family and friends, and delivering a fantastic performance. They represented our school incredibly.”
The St Joseph’s choir previously performed at the Freedom of the Borough when it was awarded to the families of the Hillsborough tragedy.
youth ministry
Celebrating our young people By Father Simon Gore, Animate Youth Ministries Although, by the time you read this, the day will have passed, it was only a few weeks ago that the Catholic Church in England and Wales celebrated National Youth Sunday. The role and presence of young people in the Catholic Church has always been of the utmost importance, and the Church in England and Wales has a rich history of recognising this every year by celebrating National Youth Sunday.
Since 1984, at the instigation of Pope Saint John Paul II, we have been asked to put aside one day in the Liturgical year to reflect on the role of young people in the Church. As John Paul II noted: ‘All young people must feel that they are cared for by the Church. Therefore, may the entire Church on a worldwide level be more and more committed to young people.’ We are blessed in this diocese to have so many young people who are actively engaged in the life of the Church.
Of course, it would be foolish to pretend there are as many of them in our churches on a Sunday as we all might like.
Nevertheless, it would be just as foolish to think that a lack of young people at Mass on Sunday means that young people in our schools and homes have turned their backs on faith and the Church.
We live in a world and a society that is ever-evolving, and young people in that world are examples of how it is increasingly difficult to reach all types of individuals with one message and medium. We need only look at how fractured media broadcasting has become to see that individuals tailor their lives around the messages they want to receive. For young people maturing in a world of TikTok and Snapchat and fleeting celebrities, the foundational principles of our faith and the commitment that goes along with it can seem to come from another time. However, as challenging as it may be to reach young people in this climate, it does not mean they are opposed to the message we might want to offer them. We are fortunate in the work we do at Animate to be able to speak to youngsters about their lives, dreams, hopes, aspirations, and anxieties. And many of them will say that they believe in God, they are Catholic, they know that God loves them, and they hope that God can help them in their lives as they face inevitable challenges.
Their beliefs might not translate into the same way of practice as previous
generations, but the flame of faith is still burning somewhere in their lives. This year’s Youth Sunday, therefore, was a chance for the Church to reflect on how we engage with young people and celebrate what many they do bring to the Church – even if in unlooked-for ways.
Some parishes may have fewer young people in the pews on a Sunday than they might like, but I am in a privileged position in which I can see youngsters across the diocese trying to live out their faith in ways that might go unseen by single parish groups. And so, as a follow-up to Youth Sunday, I thought you might like to know a few things that offer some light of hope:
• Lourdes: After the two-year hiatus of 2020 and 2021, the Youth Pilgrimage continues to take young people to Lourdes to assist our pilgrims. • Ministers of Holy Communion: A small number of young people have been commissioned as Ministers of Holy Communion for our schools and parishes. • Faith in Action: The Faith in Action award has blossomed to the point that last year over 900 youngsters received an award for putting their faith into action. • Youth Alive: Hundreds attended the Youth Alive services and socials in Advent and Lent. • Confirmation: Across the diocese, over 1,000 young people registered to receive the Sacrament in their own deaneries. • Retreats and Missions: We have been fortunate to work with around 10,000 school pupils on retreats and missions in the last 12 months – and it is these conversations that give me hope for the future. To return to Youth Sunday, it is important to remember that this is only one day. As Pope Francis reminds us: ‘World Youth Days are not “firework displays”, flashes of enthusiasm that are an end in themselves; they are the stages of a long journey.’ We are blessed in this diocese to have so many young people willing to walk on this journey with the Lord.
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Pic extras Mums the Word Welcome to our Christmas column. We are now in the season of Advent, when schools will be preparing for their Nativity plays and carol concerts. The children will no doubt be getting excited, especially if they are involved in both. We will all be aware of the meaning of Christmas. Mary and Joseph took the journey to Bethlehem for the census, but while they were there, Mary gave birth to a baby boy who was to be named Jesus. We do not know the exact date when Jesus was born; the Bible does not mention it, but it was selected to be exactly nine months after 25 March. After the birth, an angel appeared saying: ‘Glory to God in the highest, and peace to all on earth.’ It would be remiss of us to not mention the conflict and hardship that the people of the Holy Land have endured for the last couple of months. When we think of Bethlehem we think of peace and tranquillity, but the reality is very different. Please let us all pray for the people in the Holy Land and ask the child Jesus to intercede for us and bring peace on Earth. I hope you all have a holy and peaceful Christmas and wish a safe journey to all who will be travelling for the holiday.
Dates for the diary • 8 December is the feast of the Immaculate Conception. We can celebrate with our own foundations in our churches and recite our UCM prayer. • The next Bi-Monthly Mass is on 17 January 2024, which is when our nominated charities will receive their cheques. It will take place at St Margaret Mary’s at 7.30pm. I hope to see you all then. Kathy Buck UCM Archdiocesan President
A century of service News from the Liverpool Province of the Knights of St Columba
KSC walk raises funds for Marie Curie
A group of Knights, members of their families and supporters at the start of the walk from Albert Dock to Aigburth, where refreshments were provided at the St Charles parish social club.
The Knights in South Liverpool have raised more than £3,500 for Marie Curie. As reported in the previous issue, members of Council 9 undertook their Annual Steve Dooley and Pat McGann Memorial Sponsored Walk to raise funds for a worthy cause, and this year’s beneficiary is the Marie Curie Hospice in Woolton. With donations still trickling in, over £3,500 has already been raised (not including Gift Aid) and we wish to thank all who have contributed so generously, as well as the parish priests of churches in the South Liverpool area who kindly allowed us to distribute sponsorship envelopes in their churches. • During Advent, the KSC are promoting a campaign to encourage donations to foodbanks with what is called the Reverse Advent Calendar. Contributors are asked to fill a box with food items, toiletries, and laundry products such as washing powder and detergents, and take them to their local foodbank to assist those in need at Christmas. • The annual devotion to Our Lady continued throughout October with the weekly online recitation of the Rosary. The last Zoom transmission was on Monday 30 October. These transmissions were also available on Facebook. • It is with deep regret that we report the death of Brother Tom Brady, the oldest member of Liverpool Province 2 (council 12/13). His funeral Mass took place on Monday 30 October at St Edmund of Canterbury, Waterloo, followed by cremation at Thornton Garden of Rest. We express our deepest sympathy to Brother Tom’s family. May he rest in peace.
Websites: www.ksc.org.uk www.kscprov02.weebly.com Email: dpokeane@aol.com 28
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Celebrating Success and Building Our Future Now at the Nugent Gala 2023 with prizes generously contributed by local businesses in Merseyside. These contributions were instrumental in raising vital funds to support Nugent’s ongoing efforts to make a positive impact in our communities.
On 9 September 2023, supporters from across Merseyside joined us at the Nugent Gala, sponsored by Krol Corlett Construction, Lynbrook, Escape Chauffeurs, and Pantone Family, to celebrate the vital work Nugent carries out within our local communities.
On 9 September 2023, supporters from across Merseyside joined us at the Nugent Gala, sponsored by Krol Corlett Construction, Lynbrook, Escape Chauffeurs, and Pantone Family, to celebrate the vital work Nugent carries out within our local communities.
Held at the historic Rum Warehouse of the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool, the Gala is an annual event celebrating Nugent’s commitment to the communities it serves. Founded in 1881, Nugent has been providing crucial support to those who need it with the support of its network of schools, care homes, and community and social work services. The gala kicked off with an elegant welcome drinks reception, sponsored by the Pentone Family. Guests had the pleasure of enjoying their drinks while being serenaded by the acoustic melodies of singer Marc Kenny.
The event, organised by the Nugent Fundraising team, was hosted by Demand and Dune Radio star Claire Simmo, who introduced Nugent’s CEO, Jo Henney, to welcome everyone to the celebration. While enjoying their delicious three-course meal, attendees were entertained by a fabulous magician. To their delight, all guests were surprised with complimentary gift bags courtesy of Pentone Family Gin and Yaffe Photography. The night also featured a luxury raffle and auction,
Entertainment during the night was nothing short of spectacular. The award-winning Toni James Band took the stage, captivating the audience with their soulful melodies and energising beats. Laughter and joy filled the air as guests danced the night away, creating unforgettable memories. Thanks to the incredible generosity of all of the guests, sponsors, and supporters, the overall income generated from the Gala was an incredible £45,677.50.
This annual event not only celebrates our success so far, but will also help to build a brighter future through Nugent’s ‘Our Future Now’ project. The initiative is built on four pillars to transform lives: employability, memorable experiences, accommodation, and poverty alleviation. To support employability, individuals are empowered with mentorship, work experience, and career opportunities. The project aims to give each individual memorable experiences and support in accommodation throughout their unique journey. Tackling poverty in Merseyside through the Nugent Hygiene Hub and Food Pantry ensures there are lifelines within local communities for those facing daily struggles. Every person deserves a chance to shine, irrespective of the circumstances they were born into. Nugent is immensely grateful to everyone who attended, contributed, and made this Gala a resounding success. Thank you to Headline sponsor Krol Corlett Construction, Event sponsors Lynbrook and Escape Chauffeurs, and Drink Reception sponsor the Pentone Family - and thank you to all the businesses for their support in donating prizes too. Without their incredible support, this event would not have been a possibility.
Jo HenneyWragg Normandie ChiefExecutive Executive Officer Chief Nugent Nugent As Christmas approaches - a time of reflection and celebration - I want to look back at the incredible accomplishments of our Nugent family in 2023. Throughout the year, our dedicated colleagues and volunteers have achieved remarkable milestones. Earlier this year, we opened Lime Grove Cottage, a new children’s home in Warrington, supporting young people with learning and physical disabilities. We were delighted that it received a ‘Good’ rating in its first Ofsted inspection, giving it a strong foundation for the future.
Our latest community venture was launched, Our Future Now, embodying Nugent’s commitment to reach out to organisations and businesses across the archdiocese and work collaboratively to create opportunities for those from disadvantaged backgrounds, focusing on four key areas:
•
Employability
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Accommodation
• •
Memorable experiences Poverty alleviation
We honoured our incredible colleagues at our annual iACCORD Awards, which recognise individuals who continually demonstrate and embody Nugent’s values of integrity, ambition, courage, compassion, optimism, respect, and dignity (which form the acronym iACCORD).
Our fundraising appeals and events, such as the Good Shepherd Appeal, Sleep Out with Nugent, the 17th Phil Thompson Golf Classic, the annual Nugent Gala, and the Sahara Desert 100km Trek were met with immense success. Your unwavering support makes a profound difference in the lives of children, families, and individuals facing adversity. We are privileged to have such compassionate and dedicated supporters and friends in our community.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish all the readers and families of the Catholic Pictorial, the people we care for, Nugent volunteers and colleagues, a most wonderful Christmas and a prosperous New Year. In 2024, we look forward to continuing the vital work started by Father Nugent to provide care, educate, and protect those who need it most.
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Dialogue and Unity
John Smartt
– a Pioneer for Unity Ultan Russell, Archdiocesan Ecumenical Officer In addition to his vigorous and gifted leadership in education, he has been involved in promoting the role of the laity in the Church at national and European levels. He served as president of the Catholic Men’s Society (CMS) from 1989-92 and 2004-07, and in 2008 took on the role of general secretary – a post he still holds, being fully involved in the preparation of their discussion programmes for adult formation each year.
In 2008 he became the CMS representative on the National Council of Lay Associations (NCLA) and has served as its president (2012-2020) and now as honorary treasurer. The NCLA is linked to the European Forum of Laity (ELF) and John has attended its biennial meetings for eight years and is currently honorary secretary. Thus, he was delighted to be invited by the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales to act as one of their 10 representatives participating (by Zoom) in the Universal Synod European continental stage preparatory meeting in Prague. John facilitated a discussion group, bringing together 26 English-speaking people from 10 countries who found their interactions across the four-day meeting so fruitful that they continued to meet after the event! It was a great joy to interview John Smartt recently. He has offered distinguished service to the Church in both education and lay associations. He spends his time divided between Galloway in Scotland and his home parish of Our Lady and the English Martyrs in Litherland, Merseyside.
John was born in Litherland and educated at English Martyrs Primary School, then at St Mary’s, Crosby, from where he went to Trinity and All Saints College and Leeds University to train as a teacher, specialising in Biological Sciences and Psychology. He gained experience in primary and secondary schools in Bradford and Thornton before taking a post at King David High School in Childwall, a school run on Orthodox Jewish principles and accepting children of other faiths. He rose through the ranks to serve as head of Sixth Form, a post he thoroughly enjoyed, particularly working with senior students of different faiths and helping them to be role models for lower-school pupils. Then, after several spells as acting head, John had the unique experience of becoming the first Catholic headteacher of a Jewish secondary school. This was one dimension of John’s profound commitment to unity. John has served for over two decades as a member of the Commission for Dialogue and Unity and its predecessor, the Ecumenism Commission. He has spoken to many forums, such as the Council of Christians and Jews and the Catholic Education Service, on being a headteacher of a faith-based school of a different faith from his own. 30
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John reflected: ‘There was a sense that the Church was listening, and the Spirit was present. It was uplifting to see people from different cultural backgrounds, countries and faith bases realising they were being listened to and that there could be unity in diversity.’ He has been following the Synod and hopes that the European Forum, the NCLA, and lay organisations will study the Instrumentum Laboris and make use of the worksheets within the document to bring about a Synodal Church and unity in diversity. This, as he adds, will relate closely to the innovative work performed in the archdiocese via the Synodal council.
Keeping you uptodate with all the news from around the Archdiocese online at:
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“For unto us a child is born, unto us a child is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
From St John Bosco Arts College, may we wish everyone a Christmas filled with Faith, Hope and Love.
stjohnboscoartscollege.com