Catholic Pic March 2025

Creating

in the darkness

Joyce Honoured

South Liverpool Parish celebrates “living simply”

light

Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust

The Trust is pleased to announce that two of its schools have achieved ‘Good in all areas’ Ofsted ratings.

Holy Spirit Catholic Academy has significantly improved from ‘Inadequate’ to ‘Good’ in all areas…

Pupils relish their time at this dynamic school.”

Ofsted 2024

The school is ambitious for what pupils can achieve.”

Ofsted 2024

St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Academy has moved from ‘Requires Improvement’ to ‘Good’ in all areas…

Pupils are happy and proud to attend this school.”

Ofsted 2024

In lessons, pupils follow the school’s firmly embedded routines”

Ofsted 2024

Interested in joining St Joseph CMAT? Head to our website using the QR code or link below: www.SJCMAT.co.uk/About-Us/Join-Our-Family-2/

From the Archbishop’s Desk

One of my national responsibilities on behalf of the Catholic Church is to chair the trustees of the Catholic Social Action Network (CSAN), which has a membership of over fifty organisations in England and Wales. Last month, CSAN held a parliamentary reception in the House of Commons to present its work to parliamentarians and to form new links and attachments with them and between themselves. As I said in my introductory words welcoming people to the reception, I was overwhelmed by the enormous work which is done by the church for the good of people and our wider society. Seeing their representatives assembled in one room made me feel very humble and proud. These are the people that put the gospel into action on our behalf. You would recognise them: the SVP, Nugent, Stella Maris, Prison Advice and Care Trust, diocesan Caritas organisations, Marriage Care, Million Minutes, and many more. Ian Byrne, the Member of Parliament for Liverpool West Derby, hosted the occasion and spoke of the impact that the church has on society. One of the roles of CSAN is advocacy under its ‘Do Justice” banner, and there is much on the agenda in the months ahead. Child poverty is on the increase, and CSAN is campaigning to lift the two-child limit on Child benefit; the Assisted Dying Bill is a cause of great concern to many people not only Catholics. However, this work cannot be left to Catholic organisations and other people. We all have a part to play.

Most

Reverend Malcolm McMahon OP Archbishop of Liverpool

Monthly prayer intentions

Contents: 4 Main Feature Creating light in the darkness

7 Sunday Reflections

8 From the Archives Limited Edition

9 News News from around the archdiocese

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

March

For families in crisis.

Let us pray that broken families might discover the cure for their wounds through forgiveness, rediscovering each other’s gifts, even in their differences.

www.popesprayer.va

Editor Harriet Anwyl

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

15 Cathedral Record

16 Catholic Life

17 Profile Gee Walker

18 Pastoral Ponderings

19 Care for creation

28 Pic Extras Mums the word News from the KSC

29 Animate Youth Ministry

30 Dialogue and Unity

“Bethlehem, one of the holiest cities in the world, has been a ghost town for a while. The community there depend on pilgrimages.”

Creating light in the darkness

The work of CAFOD partner Caritas is providing support – and some hope – to the Christians of the Holy Land, as Canon Mark Madden saw on his recent visit.

by Simon Hart

“A light in the darkness of a suffering land.” This was a phrase used at the conclusion of the Holy Land Coordination, the visit of Catholic bishops from six countries to the West Bank in January. This annual visit – resumed this year after its cancellation in 2024 – featured a representative from the Archdiocese of Liverpool in Canon Mark Madden, who is general secretary to the Coordination.

Canon Mark, parish priest at Saint Josephine Bakhita, Litherland, saw reasons for “hopelessness” - yet, in the work of the Catholic Church, notably through its charity arm Caritas, he saw the above-mentioned light in the darkness too.

“We saw how the situation has affected the Christian community and how the Catholic Church has responded,” he says. “Caritas is an organisation which, along with the Latin Patriarchate, is doing everything it can in a very difficult situation.”

The work of Caritas, adds Canon Mark, is worth highlighting all the more for the fact it is partnering with CAFOD, the official aid agency of the Catholic Church in England and Wales. This support is much-valued given the huge challenge of trying to help those

suffering not only in the devastated Gaza Strip, but also the West Bank.

As part of a 25-strong party, Canon Mark witnessed the increased difficulties and indignities endured by Palestinians in the West Bank since the eruption of the Israel-Hamas conflict, but also the good that Caritas does there. Citing a visit to the village of Taybeh, Canon Mark explains: “It is a Christian village, and we visited the parish of Christ the Redeemer and the Caritas-run medical centre. Of the people we saw, the majority were Muslim, so the Church is not only caring for its own people, but for anybody coming to them that needs care and support. We went to Ramallah and did the same, seeing another two Caritas projects.” These included an elderly

day-care centre and a vocational training centre for empowering women as part of Caritas’ efforts to stimulate the wardamaged economy.

Anton Asfar, the secretary general of Caritas Jerusalem, explains: “It isn’t easy because so many people have lost their jobs. Over 180,000 people who were working in Israel were laid off and had their permits suspended.”

In addition, the tourism sector “has been shut down with no pilgrimages”. Anton, a Catholic Syriac, elaborates: “Bethlehem, one of the holiest cities in the world, has been a ghost town for a while. The community there depend on pilgrimages, but there are no hotels operating, no pilgrims’ houses, no souvenir shops, no workshops. People are left without any income.”

Consequently, Caritas’ efforts this year include supporting 1,000 schoolchildren with tuition fees and a cash-assistance programme for families who receive vouchers for food and basic needs on their mobile phones. The number in need is rising given the recent forced displacement of “tens of thousands” from their homes in Jenin in the north of the West Bank. “People are kicked out from their houses and move to other neighbourhoods with nothing. The community has been very generous supporting these internally displaced people, but they have other needs – children need diapers, they need food, they need hygiene kits.”

Caritas has 43 staff in the West Bank and Jerusalem, and its staff on the ground are vital in towns and villages isolated with increasing regularity owing to the rising number of Israeli army checkpoints (now around 900). “The villages and towns are really cut off from the main cities, so there’s a need for healthcare assistance and we have people residing in these areas.

“Some staff cannot now access the Jerusalem office, as permits are suspended, so they are operating remotely or assisting the teams on the ground. Access and movement is really an issue –you can wait for hours at the checkpoints.”

When visiting Ramallah, Canon Mark’s party experienced this at first hand – they were forced to cancel a planned Mass and depart early after hearing of threatened road closures. “I’m always happy when the bishops have those experiences as it shows them what people are having to go through every day,” says Canon Mark. “We were quite lucky we were only three hours [waiting]. The day before and night after people were spending up to 10 hours getting in and out of Ramallah.”

“People trust us”

Caritas is also working in Gaza, with 97 staff operating within 17 medical teams. Anton Asfar explains: “The health system has been totally damaged, so we’re more of a primary health-care provider there. In collaboration with the World Health

Bishop Nicholas Hudson Auxiliary Bishop of Westminster and Moderator of the Holy Land Coordination, visiting a patient in a Caritas medical centre

Organisation, we’re trying to alleviate some of the suffering.”

This work involves distributing medicine and food – “if we get it through” – and “supporting the WHO in the polio vaccination programme”. Another task, adds Anton, is to give support to “traumatised children”. And in a place which, according to UNICEF, now has the highest number of child amputees per capita in the world, Caritas’ current fundraising efforts will help provide prosthetic limbs to 140 people.

He adds: “We’re keeping neutrality in Gaza, which is very important for us as a Church organisation. We’re a grassroots organisation, we’ve been in Gaza for decades, and people trust us. Last year we provided vouchers for around 9,000 families and healthcare and life-saving medication for over 80,000 people, but the need is immense. It is a drop in the ocean.”

Earlier in Israel’s assault on Gaza, Anton and his team were heartbroken by the deaths of two colleagues, killed in airstrikes. Viola Amash, 26, was killed alongside her husband and infant daughter when Israeli bombs struck the 12th-century St Porphyrios Church, in whose compound civilians were sheltering. “She was a passionate woman who I saw working in the field with the mobile medical teams,” says Anton. The other colleague killed was pharmacist Issam Abedrabbo, who died along with two of his sons.

It was in the face of such devastation that the Holy Land Coordination made their January visit to tell Palestinian Christians: “You are not forgotten”. At the start of this conflict, there were 1,047 Christians living in Gaza; by last May, says Anton, the number was “640”.

Canon Mark saw another of the challenges faced by the Holy Land’s Christians when visiting Taybeh – growing violence by Israeli settlers, whose presence in the West Bank is illegal in international law. “A lot of people in Taybeh own olive groves and during the olive harvest, people from the settlements were going in and destroying the olive crops.

“The parish priest, Father Bashar Fawadleh, will often send me pictures or videos of his school bus being attacked by settlers throwing bricks and stones.

On the day we went, the checkpoint was just stopping people going in and out, and Christians are having to put up with this daily. The situation in the West Bank is dire and people are afraid for what will happen in the future. We can’t imagine the Holy Land without our Christian community, but would we begrudge them leaving?”

In the meantime, Caritas and its partners will keep on doing all they can. “The Church will try to make their life more bearable by trying to provide good housing and create job opportunities,” adds Canon Mark, “so there is that light, that hope in trying to make life more bearable.”

On a liturgical note

Unlike some other years, in 2025 we only BEGIN Lent during this month (Wednesday 5), so the whole month will be marked by the Purple Vestments of the Season - notably ‘lightened’ by the Feast of Saint Patrick (Monday 17), the Solemnities of Saint Joseph (Wednesday 19) and Gabriel’s Annunciation to Mary (Tuesday 25). These days of the white or gold vestments will act as reminders and foretaste of the Easter joys, as indeed will be the Rose of 30th of the Month as we keep Laetare, Rejoice Sunday.

Colours are important to us – they visually link us to the Liturgies of the year, and, as we noted last month, they mark the passing of “times and Seasons”. The major colour of this month, the PURPLE of Lent, is a royal colour, a significant colour and, in many ways, a penitential colour. It is a time of purification and reflection which will enable us also to walk along side (SYN-ODOS – on the same path) those who are Candidates for reception into full Communion of the Church or Catechumens seeking Baptism into the Christian Faith. It reminds us that when we make a profession of Faith - or renew our Baptismal Promises as at Easter – we

Sunday thoughts

It began with the brutal invasion of Ukraine. Then, even more shocking, were the pictures of Gaza reduced to rubble – each pile of debris representing people’s homes and livelihoods. And now we see world order seemingly evaporating into chaos as neighbours and allies are provoked by threats of trade wars, tariffs, deportations and invasion.

Mark’s Gospel tells the story of the Gerasene Demoniac:

Jesus and his disciples came to the other side of the lake, to the country of the Gerasenes. And when Jesus had stepped out of the boat, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit. He lived among the tombs. And no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain, for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart, and he broke the shackles in pieces. No one had the strength to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and cutting himself with stones. And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and fell down before him. And crying out with a loud voice, he said, ‘What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me.’ For he was saying to him, ‘Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!’ And Jesus

Canon Philip Gillespie

are doing so not only as individuals (the ‘I’ in ‘”I believe”) but also as members of a dynamic and living Community of faith. This is beautifully framed in the word of the Preface to the Eucharistic Prayer for Various Needs and Occasions (Number 2):

For you never forsake the works of your wisdom, but by your providence are even now at work in our midst. With mighty hand and outstretched arm, you led your people Israel through the desert. Now, as your Church makes her pilgrim journey in the world, you always accompany her by the power of the Holy Spirit and lead her along the paths of time to the eternal joy of your Kingdom, through Christ our Lord.

This year we keep the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicea, a gathering of the Church which thrashed out the language of what we know as the Nicene Creed, the Creed which – in translation – we still use to the present day. That we are using language which has very much stood the test of time is an invitation to us again to see ourselves as part of the great flow of time, the continuum which is the life of the Church in the world.

Mgr John Devine OBE

asked him, ‘What is your name?’ He replied, ‘My name is Legion, for we are many.’ And he begged him earnestly not to send them out of the country. Now a great herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside, and they begged him, saying, ‘Send us to the pigs; let us enter them.’ So he gave them permission. And the unclean spirits came out and entered the pigs; and the herd, numbering about two thousand, rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned in the sea.

Freed

to know

Last year Mick came into centre. He was sleeping rough, he told me. He was drunk with him, I could see track down his arms from drug abuse. He began to talk about faith, and he was steeped in an odd sort of pious Catholicism. Half the things he told me, I had never heard of! He was loud and noisy but when he calmed down, he really began to share. He told me of gang fights he had been involved in and prison sentences for extortion and then he cried. Eventually he quietened, and we sat and shared the silence. I was saying to God, “What do I do?” The only thought that came into my mind was, “Tell him who he really is.”

It is a story of demonic possession – of confusion, agitation, noise and disruption, of torment, frenzy and turbulence. Evil feeds on itself and reproduces itself. It assumes many guises. Satan, the father of lies, is multiplied today by millions on their laptops and iPhones. When challenged by even the calmest declaration of the truth, evil writhes and retaliates. But it carries within itself the seeds of its own destruction. Satan takes everyone down with him.

The antidote to evil is found in the challenge of Jesus – “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!” – and in his words of healing and harmony: “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.”

I took hold of Mick’s hand and I found myself saying to him that, despite everything, he was loved by God, that he was a child of God; that was his true identity. I am not sure what effect those words had. Mick looked stunned and left soon after, but it struck me that most of us don’t really know who we are. We are beloved children of God, called to proclaim that truth in a world that doesn’t know and that’s risky, and hard, but it is exactly what Jesus had to do.

You see if we do not know who we are in God then the depths of the mystery of God can evade us. It’s so easy to create an image of God that is one-dimensional and not a God of extraordinary wonder, who pours out grace upon grace. We can never begin to see the endless wonder of a God whose love and grace are always surprising and whose depths we can never penetrate.

Jesus’ mission was to help us see with different eyes. That is what biblical repentance is all about. It starts with recognising who we are in God’s sight. You are a child of God, you are Son, you are Daughter. You have dignity, value and a worthiness that has nothing to do with you, but which is the gifting of God.

That awareness of the gift of God leads us to know the truth that every human person is a wonderful, unique creation of God and is caught up in the mystery that is God. We’re freed to know that the world is wonderful because of the power of love. How wonderful is our God. We are children of God and salvation for us, now, depends on whether we are willing to believe that truth and allow it to lead us to live in this world with heads held high because of who we are. To know who we truly are in the sight of God and to allow that to liberate us is the mystery that we can only be grateful for. To know who God is and to fall into grace is to know wonder and extraordinary love.

Father Chris Thomas

from the archives Limited Edition

by Neil Sayer, Archdiocesan Archivist

Fundraising for the Cathedral didn’t stop after its opening in 1967. It cost money to maintain the building, and the Cathedral authorities were open to suggestions as to how to finance it. When a local jeweller came up with an idea to create limited edition silver goblets in 1972, the Cathedral Bursar and Administrator were keenly interested.

It was Malcolm Grimbaldeston of Jeeves the Jewellers who contacted Father Burrowes in the summer of 1972. Jeeves had been in Crosby since just after World War Two. It may have been their move into larger premises on South Road, Waterloo, that prompted a more proactive sales campaign. Mr Grimbaldeston drew Father Burrowes’ attention to some recent successful promotions in connection with anniversaries, both religious and otherwise. The 1300th anniversary of the death of St Chad had led Lichfield Cathedral to sponsor a commemorative silver goblet. Ripon Cathedral was consecrated in the same year as St Chad died, and Pershore Abbey celebrated a thousand years of its existence in 1972. In the same year, the once-everytwenty-years Preston Guild was held. Commemorative silver was produced for each of these occasions. Would the Metropolitan Cathedral, Liverpool’s most recent addition to the national religious infrastructure, be interested in lending its name to a similar project? As Cathedral Bursar, Father Burrowes consulted with Monsignor Thomas McKenna, the first Administrator of the new Cathedral.

All the commemorative goblets mentioned had been created by Barker Ellis Ltd, long-established in Birmingham as silversmiths, with a reputation for producing quality silverware. They had partnered with local firms of jewellers to sell the branded products as souvenirs and, of course, as investments.

It seems there was little risk to the Cathedral. The name and image were lent to a product from which they were granted a commission on all sales. An agreement was signed giving Jeeves the Jewellers exclusive rights for 6 years. In that time, they could produce limited annual editions of the souvenir goblets, each being numbered and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, and up to 1,500 could be produced each year. The goblets, just over 5 inches tall, had the coat of arms of the City of Liverpool on one side and an “engraved silhouette” of the cathedral on the other: this was an early, but not the earliest, example of the shape of the cathedral lending itself to a readily recognisable logo. They were designed by H R Roberts, a former pupil of West Park Grammar School in St Helens, and not coincidentally also the deputy managing director of Barker Ellis. The goblets were ready for sale as Christmas presents in 1972. “Collectors” were expected to be especially interested in them. Publicity suggests that they were intended to “commemorate the decade since work began on the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral”, though frankly that just seems to be a handy excuse for their issue.

Another advertising ploy might have been the pride that was taken in the fact that “Liverpool is the first Catholic Cathedral in this country to have an issue of sterling silver goblets to commemorate a period of its history.” A full page was taken out in the Catholic Pic to promote the sale of the goblets.

Mr Grimbaldeston marketed them quite heavily in the United States and Australia, and 50 other countries were also targeted for publicity. They weren’t cheap: a single goblet would have set you back £34 (almost £400 in today’s money), and they were also available in boxed sets of 2 or 6. It doesn’t seem that they were produced for the full six years of the agreement, and in fact there is evidence only for the issue of the first three instalments. It seems unlikely that all 1500 of the numbered goblets in each edition were actually produced and sold. Precise figures aren’t available, and Mr Grimbaldeston did express disappointment at the take-up of the goblets, though sales continued into 1975. In the end, the Cathedral made about £500 from the venture, which certainly wasn’t to be sniffed at in the mid-1970s. It costs £4000 a day now to maintain the Cathedral. I think we’d welcome any similarly imaginative fund-raising efforts.

The rarity of the goblets may be judged from the fact that they don’t seem to appear much in online auctions. We were extremely pleased recently to welcome some examples into the Archives. There are, of course, significant differences between a document and a museum piece, but in this instance it’s hard not to accept an object that so perfectly complements the archive collections.

A new deposit for the Cathedral Archives

Photos of goblet set from 1972 promotional brochure

A craftsman in Birmingham at work on one of the goblets

News diary

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Gerard Joyce Honoured with Benemerenti Medal

A lifelong parishioner of St Anthony of Egypt Church, in the Parish of St Silvester, has been recognised for his decades of dedication to the Church community. Gerard Joyce was awarded the Benemerenti Medal by Pope Francis, receiving the honour at Mass on Sunday, 5 January 2025.

Gerard’s service to the parish spans more than 50 years. He first became an altar server while attending St Anthony’s RC Primary School in the 1960s and has continued to serve ever since. Working quietly behind the scenes, he has provided steadfast support to the parish, assisting priests and families through the funeral ministry and offering invaluable help to numerous clergy over the decades.

Fr Richard Ebo, who presented the medal, paid tribute to Gerard’s lifelong commitment: “This church and its community has so much to be grateful for in what Gerard has done over the years. He is truly appreciated.”

The Mass was well attended, with parishioners, friends, family, and members of the local community coming together to celebrate his achievement. A reception with light refreshments followed, giving everyone a chance to honour Gerard’s years of service and devotion to St Anthony of Egypt Church.

This prestigious papal award is a fitting recognition of Gerard’s dedication and faith, and the entire parish extends its heartfelt congratulations and gratitude for his tireless service.

Marriage and Family Life Mass Celebrates the Gift of Marriage

Metropolitan Cathedral on Sunday, 9th February to celebrate the Marriage and Family Life Mass during National Marriage Week.

The Mass, celebrated by Archbishop Malcolm, was a joyful occasion honouring the vocation of marriage. After the homily, the Archbishop invited all married couples to stand, face each other, and renew the promises they made on their wedding day. Those celebrating significant anniversaries this year were then invited to gather around the altar for a special blessing.

To mark the occasion, couples who had renewed their vows received a certificate of blessing after Mass. The celebration concluded with a tea reception in the Gibberd Room, where families had the opportunity to share fellowship and reflect on their journeys together.

During his homily, Archbishop Malcolm spoke about the deep meaning of sacramental marriage, reminding the congregation that “in the sacrament of marriage, there is a sign that we will be in one and unity with Jesus Christ, and we can see how the love of God is expressed for the couple, their children, and the wider community.”

He encouraged couples to trust in God’s presence throughout their journey, saying: “No matter how far we have come along marriage and family life, with all the sadness and happiness, we can see the Lord walking with us.”

Hundreds of married couples and their families from across the archdiocese gathered at the

CAFOD’s Christmas Fun Run Celebrates 40 Years of Festive Fun in Liverpool

This year, Liverpool’s much-loved CAFOD Christmas Fun Run marked a momentous milestone—its 40th anniversary! The atmosphere was electric as over 400 participants gathered to wear their best Christmas outfits and take part in this cherished tradition.

The event was officially opened by writer Frank Cottrell-Boyce, a long-term supporter of the Fun Run who attended this year with his grandchildren. A live band set the mood with merry tunes, while families enjoyed face painting, a raffle, and plenty of Christmas cheer.

The creativity and enthusiasm of the crowd were on full display, with runners dressed as reindeer, inflatable Santas, and even the Grinch! It wasn’t just the humans getting into the Christmas spirit— many dogs joined the fun, wearing their own Christmas jumpers.

This year’s Fun Run saw the biggest turnout in years, with over £8.5k raised so far for CAFOD’s vital work, and donations are still coming in. Among the runners was Martin, a first-timer, who shared:

“This was the first time I had taken part in the CAFOD Fun Run, and I really enjoyed it. I’m sure I’ll be taking part again next year!”

We also welcomed some runners who have been part of every single run over the past four decades— showing just how much people love this festive tradition.

Events like this wouldn’t be possible without CAFOD’s dedicated team of volunteers, whose hard work ensures everything runs smoothly. Thank you to everyone who supported the Fun Run this year.

Here’s to 40 years of festive fun and fundraising, and to many more to come!

South Liverpool Parish celebrates “living simply”

The Aigburth parish of St Charles and St Thomas More were delighted to be awarded CAFOD’s LiveSimply Award after several years of putting together activities to demonstrate their commitment to living simply. The Covid years stretched out the process longer than expected, but it didn’t dampen the efforts of the Justice and Peace group to bring together the parish in this important journey.

The process started in 2017 with a LiveSimply Mass, attended by Colette Byrne from CAFOD, encouraging parishioners to pledge support by writing out what they promised to do to LiveSimply, such as walking to church, recycling more and donating and buying from charity shops. The Messy Church mounted them on a wooden tree for display in the church.

A range of initiatives were organised under each of the headings drawing in all ages of the parish and different groups such as Little Church, SVP, Afternoon Tea group, and many more.

Many of the actions undertaken are now conducted each year – signing of Christmas cards for prisoners, recycling within the parish, Food Bank collections, Good Friday Frugal lunch (which includes a speaker from a charity or group that work with disadvantaged or vulnerable people) to name but a few.

The Mass at which the Award was given was said in memory of Ita MacDonnell, a faithful member of the J&P group and longstanding parishioner, who unfortunately died before she could

see all her hard work come to fruition. We were honoured to have Ita’s niece present at the Mass, who received the award on behalf of the Parish from Colette Byrne.

Churches Together: Listening to the Voices of Young People

On Tuesday 21 January, representatives from various Christian denominations gathered at the St Margaret Clitherow Centre for a networking event focused on Hearing the Voices of Young People.

The event was opened by Rev Phil Jump, Regional Minister for the North West Baptist Association and Chair of Churches Together in the Merseyside Region. Rev. Jump began by leading the attendees in the Nicene Creed, marking the 1700th anniversary of its adoption at the First Council of Nicaea in 325.

During the event, the group heard from three speakers posing three questions to those in attendance. The first, Alice Tonks, a Salvation Army Youth Worker, asked: “What are you prepared to sacrifice for the sake of engaging the under-26 generation?”

Mike Sutcliffe, a Children’s Worker with the Methodist Church, followed with: “How can we help people under 26 to know that Jesus is their firm foundation?”

Finally, Esther Walters, a Baptist Church intern and part of the under-26 demographic, posed a challenging question: “What is the biggest barrier in the Church you see to engaging with people under 26?”

Attendees discussed these questions in table groups before breaking for lunch. In the afternoon, participants had the opportunity to put their reflections and ideas into writing.

Rebecca Hooton, Huyton Deanery Schools and Youth Worker, shared her thoughts on the event: “To be able to network, share stories and pray for one another and for the work we do - and others do - with young people is something I am thankful for.

I really hope that another gathering like this can take place again to continue these important discussions, opportunities to network and share stories, and most importantly to pray for one another and for our young people.”

Asish Varghese, Youth and Children’s Ministry Team Leader at Carmel MarThoma Church, Liverpool, added: “Overall, I left the event feeling encouraged and uplifted.

“Spending the day together and listening to insightful inputs, sharing stories, and connecting with others, was a reminder of the strength that comes from unity in diversity.

“It was a beautiful reminder of the power of prayer, dialogue, and mutual respect in our journey toward greater Christian unity.”

Jottings of a Lourdes Pilgrim

By Pat Murphy

A pilgrimage is a journey – mostly to a holy place that will make an impression on us, and can lead to personal enrichment and sometimes making changes to the way we live our lives. We then return to our daily life, and that personal pilgrimage supports and sustains our journey of faith.

A pilgrimage can also be a solo journey, but it is enriched by the people and pilgrims that we travel with. My Dad always said they are friends we have never met, but we all support each other. That was after a threeday pilgrimage to Lough Derg, leaving shoes on the mainland and surviving on water and possibly dry bread for over 48 hours.

Certainly, a visit to Lourdes is not quite that extreme. I certainly think that when we visit as a group each July as the “Archdioceses of Liverpool,” we pray hard and play hard. It does take personal strength and some self-sacrifice and commitment to make a pilgrimage.

I sometimes think the first Christian pilgrimage was the three wise men visiting Jesus in the stable. We are not sure how many there were in the party, or how long it took them to travel. We know that they saw a star in the East that was a sign, it took them many months, maybe a couple of years to fulfil the visit to the Christmas child. Our pilgrimages tend to be much shorter – I am pleased to say!

So whether it’s a visit to St Patricks purgatory in Lough Derg, a pilgrimage visiting your local churches (of which we have so many beautiful ones within our own archdiocese), or joining us in Lourdes this year, I hope your pilgrimage during this Jubilee year is a time of enrichment of strength and faith.

Bookings and reservations for the Jubilee Year Liverpool Lourdes Pilgrimage have now opened – do think about joining us!

St Joseph’s to Host 2025 World Day of Prayer

St Joseph’s RC Church, Leigh, is honoured to host the 2025 World Day of Prayer on Friday 7 March at 7pm. This global ecumenical event invites men, women, and children from all Christian traditions to come together in prayer and reflection.

Each year, a different country prepares the service, and for 2025, Christian women from the Cook Islands have written the liturgy based on Psalm 139:14 – “I made you wonderful.” This theme encourages participants to recognise their God-given uniqueness and to cherish the beauty in themselves and others.

World Day of Prayer is the largest Christian unity service in the world, spanning over 120 countries in a continuous wave of prayer that begins in Samoa and travels across the globe. The service lasts about an hour and will be followed by light refreshments.

This special event rotates among different Christian denominations in the Leigh area and was last held at St Joseph’s in 1997. St Joseph’s is excited to host once again and encourages all to attend.

A collection will be taken in support of international charities, and parking is available in the church car park and nearby streets.

As our sisters in the Cook Islands say, “Kia Orana” –May you live well, may you shine like the sun, may you dance with the waves.

Apostolic Nuncio Visits Hong Kong Community in Warrington

St Benedict’s Catholic Church in Warrington welcomed a distinguished guest on Saturday February, as Archbishop Savio Hon Tai-Fai Apostolic Nuncio to Libya, visited the Hong Catholic community.

The Archbishop was warmly received by Canon David Heywood, Parish Priest, and members of the congregation. A native of Hong Kong, Archbishop Savio was ordained to the priesthood in 1982 and has served in the Vatican’s diplomatic service. In 2023, Pope Francis appointed him Apostolic Nuncio to Libya.

During his visit, he celebrated Mass in Cantonese, offering a message of encouragement in his homily. He praised the faith and dedication of the Hong Kong community, acknowledging the challenges many have faced in leaving their homeland and beginning new lives in the United Kingdom.

Following the Mass, a reception was held in the parish centre, allowing parishioners and their families to meet with the Archbishop in an atmosphere of warmth and fellowship.

This special visit was a moment of joy and affirmation for the Hong Kong Catholic community at St Benedict’s, reinforcing their deep ties to the Church and the strength of their faith.

Photo by Kevin Holt

“School is ambitious for all pupils to succeed, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, and those who are disadvantaged.”

“School shows a strong commitment to ensuring pupils [are] well prepared for life beyond school.”

Ofsted, 2024

“Students feel valued, safe, and happy They feel well supported and understand the high standards staff expect from them. This school is a loving, caring environment where everyone is respected.”

“As one staff member stated, ‘the school is unrecognisable from two years ago’.”

Catholic Schools Inspection, 2024

sacredheartcatholicacademy.org I 01519312971 I admin@shca.pfcmat.org

what’s on March

Saturday 1 March

Marriage Preparation Team Volunteer Training: Session 5

10:00AM - 2:00PM at St Helen, Alexandra Road, Crosby, L23 7TG

The archdiocese is now recruiting and training volunteer facilitators to join the marriage preparation team. This new team will offer two marriage preparation courses for couples in 2025. If you are interested, please contact Moses Mui, Training Coordinator, at m.mui@rcaol.org.uk.

Wednesday 5 March

Scripture Mornings: The call of Hosea to turn our hearts back to God

10:30AM - 12:00PM at The Irenaeus Project, Liverpool, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, L22 1RD

The next series of Scripture Mornings conducted by Fr Chris will be The call of Hosea to turn our hearts back to God. Zoom links are also available if you cannot be there in person—contact jenny@irenaeus.co.uk.

Friday 7 March - Sunday 9 March

Journey through the Wilderness: A Silent Retreat

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

The Irenaeus Project will be hosting a Silent Retreat called Journeying through the Wilderness, led by Sr Moira Meeghan. Residential places are available for £95, while non-residential places are also available. To book, and for more information, email jenny@irenaeus.co.uk or phone 0151 949 1199.

Sunday 9 March

Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults

3:00PM - 4:00PM at Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King, Liverpool, Mount Pleasant, L3 5TQ

This Rite of Election service will see individuals from across the archdiocese come together to enrol for baptism or full communion with the Catholic Church at Easter.

Those who are yet to be baptised will be invited to sign their names in the Book of the Elect in the presence of their sponsors, family, and friends. Join us for this uplifting and symbolic service as we welcome this new group of adults into the Catholic Church.

Tuesday 11 March

Time Out on Tuesdays

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

In the midst of their busy lives, Jesus invited the disciples to “Come apart and rest for a while.” Why not take time to respond to this invitation and join The Sisters of Our Lady of the Cenacle for a time of prayer and quiet? No need to book, just come along and maybe bring a friend. For further information, contact Sr Winnie Morley on 0151 722 2271.

Saturday 15 March

Eucharistic Ministry Training Day

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

The Irenaeus Project will be hosting a Eucharistic Ministry Training Day. Parishes are invited to book their place by emailing jenny@irenaeus.co.uk, or calling 0151 949 1199.

Thursday 20 March

Newman Association Talk: Christians and Contemporary Culture

7:30PM at St Helen, Crosby, Alexandra Road, Crosby, L23 7TG

Professor John Sullivan will lead the latest Newman Association Talk called Christians and Contemporary Culture. How should Christians relate to the culture of our place and time? How have they done so in the past? The challenges and opportunities of fitting in or being different. All are welcome to attend.

Romero Mass 2025

7:00PM at St Edmund of Canterbury, Waterloo, Oxford Road, Waterloo, L22 8QF

This year’s Mass for St Oscar Romero will be celebrated at St Edmund of Canterbury. All are welcome to join.

New music initiatives for children this spring

by Dr Christopher McElroy Director of Music, Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral

March heralds the first shoots of spring, and to celebrate, the music department will be giving birth to two new initiatives!

On 1 March we are launching our Mini Music-Makers @ the Met group for children in years 1-2. These sessions will provide an introduction to singing and playing musical instruments, giving the children opportunities to experience music in a fun and engaging way. Sessions will take place on a weekly basis here at the cathedral on a Saturday from 10:00 -11:00 and are FREE for all children. It is our hope that those children who participate will develop a passion for music and want to continue that journey into other choirs/ musical ensembles as they get older.

On 3 March, we are starting the second of our “area choirs”. The Widnes Catholic Children’s Choir will rehearse on a weekly basis on a Monday from 16:00-17:00 at St John Fisher Parish Hall in Widnes. The choir is open to all catholic children in years 2-8 in Widnes who love to sing! Fr Mark Moran, Parish Priest St Wilfrid Parish, is very supportive of the project and commented “This is a fantastic opportunity for children in our parish to sing, and I encourage you all to join!” The Widnes Catholic Children’s Choir will join the Knowsley Catholic Children’s Choir (established 2023) in our family of children’s choirs, with more to be added further around the archdiocese in due course!

If you know of a child who would be interested in taking part in either of these initiatives, please scan the QR code below to sign up.

The beginning of March at the Cathedral sees the annual Civic Mass, at which the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, the Honorary Recorder of Liverpool and many other civic and religious leaders gather at the cathedral. The Lord Mayor and Honorary Recorder generously give of their time after the Mass each year to meet the choristers and to answer their questions about their roles (and even to allow then to try on their wigs and robes!)

On the Second Sunday of Lent (16 March) the Cathedral Choir will sing movements from the Lenten portion of Handel’s Messiah. The text of Handel’s most famous oratorio was written by Charles Jennens and is an extended reflection in three parts on Jesus’ life, spanning his birth, death and resurrection. The movements contained in the second part focus on the passion and death of the Messiah, and include some of the famous choruses such as “All we like sheep” and “Behold the Lamb of God”.

This is followed on the Third Sunday of Lent (23 March) by a devotional performance of The Seven Last Words of Christ on the Cross by César Franck. The composer César Franck is best known in Catholic parishes today for his Panis Angelicus. The Seven Last Words is a devotional work written in 1859, but never performed until the work was discovered in 1977.

Cathedral Record

Canon Anthony O’Brien –Cathedral Dean

On the first Sunday in March, we welcome the Civic Leaders from across the North-West Region to our Cathedral for the Annual Civic Mass. Archbishop Malcolm will welcome representatives and leaders from every tier of our local communities, towns and city as we come together to pray for one another and renew our commitment to public service. All are welcome to the Mass at 11am. Lent begins on Wednesday 5 March with the Blessing and Distribution of Ashes. Being in the midst of two city centre universities, it is the one day in the year when the numbers of students and young adults considerably outnumber the rest of the congregation at the various Masses and services. The symbol of ashes and the desire to use Lent as a time of change or of greater concern for the needs of others is still greatly relevant to all ages.

Adults who have been preparing to be baptised or received into the Catholic Church will be welcomed to a service of enrolment at 3pm on the First Sunday of Lent, 9 March. Archbishop Malcolm will lead this Liturgy of the Word and will welcome those who are to be baptised or received into the church in their own parishes this Easter, and he offers encouragement and prayers for them all during the final weeks of preparation.

On 11 March, the Crypt will resound with music for the Annual Catholic Secondary Schools Choir Competition. Each year, the list of entries increases, and the standards get higher!

Following a successful Spirituality Day for School Heads and Deputies last year, the Diocesan Schools Department are holding another similar day at the Cathedral on 25 March.

On the final Sunday of the month, Mothering Sunday, the afternoon service will be a performance of the Stabat Mater by Pergolesi in honour of Our Blessed Lady.

Walking Pilgrimage of the Month

MARCH

Sefton Coast South – North Family

Our latest Families of Parishes pilgrimage takes us to Sefton Coast South and to their North Family.

Start at St Joseph, Blundellsands

Begin your walk at St Joseph’s Church, conveniently located near Blundellsands and Crosby train stations and just a short distance from Crosby Beach. This makes it an ideal meeting point, especially in the summer—you could even do the walk in reverse to finish at either the beach or the train station.

If you want to start your walk around Mass, you can do it either on a Saturday evening (Mass starts at 6:30pm) or on Sunday morning (11:15am), or at 10am Mass on Friday morning.

Walk 23 minutes (1 mile) to St Helen, Crosby

After you set off, it is a walk inland to St Helen’s Church in Crosby, one of Fr Martin Caddell’s parishes in the family. The church, which was built in 1930, has a modern feeling to it. The red, green and yellow glass is certainly a distinguishing feature.

Walk 28 minutes (1.3 miles) to St Mary, Little Crosby

From St Helen’s, continue along Little Crosby Road to St Mary’s Church. This was one of two churches under the care of Fr Dunstan Harrington, who sadly passed away in late 2024. The churches are now under the care of Dean of Sefton Coast South, Fr Gerard Callacher.

St Mary’s has a rich history dating back to 1660, with the current church last consecrated in 1847. Take a moment to appreciate its deep historical significance, reflect on your journey so far, and pray for your intentions. Its peaceful, remote setting provides a great opportunity for quiet contemplation.

Walk 35 minutes (1.6 miles) to St William of York, Thornton

The final leg of your pilgrimage is the longest but follows a straightforward path to St William of York in Thornton. Founded in 1955, this church has played an important role in the local faith community for decades.

One notable aspect of St William’s is that it houses the first Bleed Kit installed in a parish within the Archdiocese of Liverpool. This was part of an initiative in partnership with the charity Knifesavers, aimed at providing life-saving equipment in key community areas. The parish continues to be actively involved in outreach efforts, reflecting its strong commitment to both faith and service.

This parish also features a parish centre on-site, offering a welcoming space for the community. Consider stopping in for refreshment and fellowship after your walk, taking time to reflect on your journey. With this meaningful history and sense of community marking the end of your pilgrimage, your walk is complete!

The Holy Spirit at work in St Helens Deanery

More than 100 delegates from across the St Helens Deanery met on Saturday to celebrate their shared faith and to look at ways to move forward.

Fr Paul Harris, Dean, and Julie Mooney, Chair organised the event to bring together not only the Deanery Synodal Council Chairs but representatives from each church within the deanery.

The response to the open invitation was overwhelming and shows a real appetite for parishioners to be involved in the life and mission of the church.

Julie said, “It was heartening to see so many people attending our Families of Parishes event, including clergy and parishioners from across the St Helens Deanery. It provided a positive platform for sharing our thoughts and ideas, which will underpin future collective working and support within our Families of Parishes.”

Chris Higgins, Parish and Deanery Development Adviser commented, “What an encouraging day for the local church here in the deanery. It’s wonderful to see the clergy and laity working in collaboration. The Holy Spirit is at work. I’m sure these relationships will continue to grow and strengthen. There is amazing talent and vision in each of the four Families of Parishes.”

Saint of the Month

St Joseph

St Joseph, the patron of the Universal Church, as well as the archdiocese, is the greatest of saints although he was a humble and devout man. On 19 March we celebrate St Joseph as the Husband of Mary – trusting God and caring for Jesus. On 1 May we celebrate St Joseph the Worker, remembering his dedication and hard work in providing for his family.

Gee Walker

The power of forgiveness

By Simon Hart

“Forgiveness is not a weakness. It is a gift to reclaim life. Had I been unable to forgive, I would be full of hate, I would be full of resentment, I would want revenge. What would my life be like?”

The same strength which enables such forgiveness has driven Gee, during the two decades since the loss of her 18-year-old son, to touch so many lives through the work of the Anthony Walker Foundation, established in 2006. As well as supporting victims of hate crime, the foundation delivers educational sessions in schools, creating ambassadors through its Tackling Racism in Schools Award programme. In 2024 alone, she estimates that they worked with 17,000 young people.

Gee’s efforts have been recognised far and wide: from the honorary degree bestowed on her by Liverpool University in 2013 to the Pride of Britain award she received in 2021, and then the MBE she collected last year. Of that MBE, she says: “It was recognition for the work we are doing. I could not have done what I’ve done without the support of local people in Merseyside and further afield who appreciate what we do and understand that the Anthony Walker Foundation is needed.

“Really, in essence, I am honouring my son’s name and his legacy,” she adds. “I don’t want any accolades myself. What I do, I do on behalf of him, because I know he wouldn’t just stand by watch things without doing something.”

She remembers one of her daughters telling her that Anthony “was too good for this world”. In Jimmy McGovern’s 2020 BBC drama “Anthony”, the Liverpool screenwriter explored what he might have done had he had more time in it. For Gee, the same thought serves as a source of inspiration. “I know what my son was capable of doing in the years he had on Earth,” she says. “I saw the greatness in him, the potential in him. I wonder had he lived what sort of person he would have been as in his short life he achieved so much. My mind cannot comprehend what he’d have done so what I do pales into insignificance really because Anthony would be doing so much more.

“What I do is to be his voice, his arms and his legs, and to go where he can’t go, to say the things that I think he might have said, to do what I think he might have done.”

Hence her ongoing efforts to promote racial harmony – as necessary today, she argues, as they were 20 years ago when Anthony was killed. Citing last summer’s Southport riots, she says: “Things seem to be going forward and then something happens and it’s back to the dark ages. I think the foundation is very necessary to help people who are suffering, be it from racial or religious hate crime.”

That said, she sees hopeful signs too. She took heart from the number of young people present in the Gibberd Room at the Metropolitan Cathedral on a Sunday afternoon in January when she delivered a talk on “A Mother’s Forgiveness”. “There were young kids in the audience and seeing that gives me hope,” says Gee, whose message to them is to “take action and show you care”. Just as her Anthony would have done.

To find out more, visit: www.anthonywalkerfoundation.com

Pastoral ponderings

by Paul Pimblett

Our Journey of Synodality continues

In this entry, I have decided to answer some more of the questions I am frequently asked about seminary and formation for the priesthood in a Q&A style:

What is a seminary?

A seminary is a community made up of men who live and study alongside each other in a house of formation. I currently study at Allen Hall in Chelsea, London, alongside Rhys J, another Liverpool seminarian.

What do you study?

During our time in seminary, we study philosophy and theology alongside courses such as Scripture, Latin and Greek. At the moment I am in my second year of philosophy, which is linked with St Mary’s University, Twickenham.

Do you get time off?

Yes. We get one day off a week, as well as reading weeks and time at Christmas, Easter and in the summer. Our studies determine when we get time off, so we roughly follow the usual academic year.

What do you do in an average day?

Our days in seminary are structured around the Divine Office and Holy Mass. We meet regularly to pray at set times throughout the day. We have classes in the morning and share meals together. In the afternoons there is free time, however this is more often than not filled with homework and house duties!

What is community life like?

Living in community is a wonderful opportunity to build a sense of fraternity and friendship as we support one another in our formation. However, just as in any community, there are the usual tensions and hiccups, but this is completely natural and healthy - after all, the Disciples often argued!

Are you allowed to marry?

No. The Church asks her priests to freely and joyfully make vows of celibacy and obedience. Seminary gives us time to reflect and prepare for a lifetime of commitment to the Lord in this unique union with Him.

Do you enjoy it?

Yes! I have felt immense joy and assurance since I began my time in formation. Surprisingly, I have experienced a great sense of relief and freedom in surrendering to God’s plan for my life and trusting in Him. Seminary has also given me so many wonderful brothers, friends, and experiences that I will always treasure!

I hope this has been interesting and helpful in giving you more of an insight into the life of a seminarian!

Our Lady Queen of Heaven, Pray for us.

enthusiasm, synodality was cited as the only sure way to maintain the momentum of change and development that the Plan asked for: “We will make synodality our archdiocesan way of life so that it becomes the normal way we do things.” [Signpost 4 p.17]

Three years after our own local Synod, the General Synod in Rome said that Synodality signifies “a path of spiritual renewal and structural reform to make the Church more participatory and missionary, that is, to make her more capable of walking with every man and woman radiating the light of Christ.”

[For a Synodal Church #28]

So where are we now in Liverpool? How far have we travelled along this path?

We have seen the creation of an Archdiocesan Synodal Council (ASC) and Deanery Synodal Councils (DSC) as structures to promote synodality in the daily life of our local church. Our DSCs meet regularly and are chaired by a layperson, working collaboratively with the Dean and a lay representative from each parish. These councils were initially tasked with setting up Family of Parishes; smaller groups of parishes created to support one another in mission and resources.

As I travel around our deaneries and Families of Parishes (FoP), I am extremely encouraged by the commitment and positiveness I encounter. It is obvious that the Holy Spirit is at work! However, sometimes the Holy Spirit works in its own time – progress may seem slow and the frustration of some is tangible, but if we are to maintain a “culture of transparency, accountability, and evaluation” [For a Synodal Church #24] we

culture and experiences. Each has its reasons for celebrating its journey, its setbacks and frustrations, and its areas to develop along the path of synodality.

Just as the General Synod on Synodality, launched by Pope Francis in 2021, was the first to include laypeople, our own archdiocese is a beacon for the English Church on our synodal journey. With two ASC meetings (annually) and three years of DSC meetings under our belt, we are well on the path. These are exciting times! Inspired again by the General Synod in Rome: “The Synodal Assembly desires that the People of God have a greater voice in choosing Bishops” [For a Synodal Church #70] the ASC invited the People of God to consult on the appointment of our next Archbishop. The report, which has been sent to the Papal Nuncio and Dicastery of Bishops involved in the appointment of our next Archbishop, is a succinct summary of the state of play within our archdiocese.

Our DSC Chairs recently met together and will continue to meet every 3 months. We give thanks to God for their diligence and commitment in listening to the Holy Spirit and sharing in Christ’s prophetic office. We are on a path, a pilgrimage, and during this Jubilee Year as Pilgrims of Hope, we pray that the People of God in Liverpool take up this call.

“May we grow in our worship of God and in our service to our neighbour. To adore and to serve. May the Lord accompany us. Let us go forward with joy!”

[Pope Francis General Synod Closing Mass 2024] The Consultation Report can be read here: archdioceseofliverpool.org/ ConsultationReport

Care for Creation

Nature therapy

by Dr Jennifer Jones, Scientist and nature writer

March: a month of increasing day length, the spring equinox, and the start of Lent. It is also often the time when we begin to shed our winter layers and head outdoors. The sight of spring bulbs blooming, trees budding, and birds nest-building can give us a sense of optimism after the grey days of winter.

One of the outstanding memories I have from pandemic days was of visiting a local golf course. Areas once out of bounds to other than golfers were suddenly accessible, and adults and children came in their hordes. It felt as if giving access to greenspace would entice everyone outside during those challenging days. Many reported feeling uplifted by being out in nature. They were noticing things they had not seen before. It was recognised that this brief time of physical and mental activity was an important element of coping with the tremendous rigours of the pandemic.

Links between nature and well-being seem never to have been clearer than at present. We now hear talk about the Natural Health Service, not the National Health Service. A number of NHS Trusts now support Nature Therapy projects, where the therapy comprises any activity that involves connecting with nature –outdoors and even indoors. We do not need to engage with any organised session outdoors to feel the benefits of the natural world. I am sure we can all recall that smell of soil after rain. It’s the smell that makes us pause, breathe deeply and feel calmed. Similarly, some people say that the act of feeling soil, of teasing it through their fingers can induce a sense of ease and momentary suspension from the cares of life.

I am a fan of the Moomin books written by Tove Jansson. In her novel for adults, The Summer Book, she writes eloquently about a grandmother who lies down outdoors on a bed of reeds and explores a blade of grass which had captured a piece of seabird down. The grandmother examines every element of that blade and

the down. A piece of bark lay next to the grass, so grandma explored it and saw that it was “beautiful and dramatic”. What I love about this piece is that, probably unknown to Jansson, it embodies the essence of mindfulness. The grandmother took time out just to be and to observe the simplest of features: a blade of grass with a trapped piece of down. I am certain that she will have felt calmed and stilled by the experience. So even if we have access only to a blade of grass, our bodies can be quietened and soothed. Such moments may be a source of prayer, or time to sense that still, small voice of calm.

It is self-evident that to ensure access to the natural world to nurture our health, we need nature to be there: woodlands, coasts, parks, gardens etc. These need not be those spectacular, beautiful landscapes that induce an ‘ooh’ response; a small garden or even a plant on a windowsill can produce a calming effect. Our greenspaces are important not just for their biological value, but also as environments that can help our physical and mental health. We cannot afford to keep losing our greenspaces.

I am a keen birdwatcher. I enjoy visiting sites with birdwatching friends, but some of my most positive experiences have been when out alone. Watching waders sifting through the Mersey mud, or a song thrush looking for worms among leaves, or hearing house sparrows chattering in a hedgerow, all touch my spirit in a special way. Briefly, I can forget whatever might be challenging me and can embrace creation.

Last year, I visited an area in Norfolk renowned for its population of nightingales. This is a species that is experiencing serious decline due largely to the loss of scrubby woodland, its preferred breeding habitat. We stopped at the edge of a small copse and, after only a few minutes, experienced the unmistakeable glory of nightingale song. One of our group had never heard a nightingale sing; his face was a picture. In those few precious moments, he was transfixed and calmed. To this day, he has never forgotten that moment: nature at its healing best.

Christ is the ultimate conveyor of hope for those suffering or feeling over-burdened. As St Matthew reminds us: “Come to me all you who labour and are over-burdened, and I will give you rest”. In this Jubilee year, we focus on being Pilgrims of Hope. In 2022, introducing the Jubilee year, Pope Francis reflected, “May we never fail to contemplate the beauty of creation and care for our common home. … Growing numbers of men and women, including many young people and children, have come to realise that care for creation is an essential expression of our faith in God”. In this Jubilee year, we can value any moment of resting gently with creation, and strive to care for it.

Getting to know: St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust

Multi academy trusts remain a hot topic for school leaders as they ask whether they should join a trust, and most importantly, what the benefits for their children are.

In an exclusive interview, the Catholic Pic spoke with executive leaders and headteachers at St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust (SJCMAT), to gain a deeper understanding of the benefits of joining the trust.

SJCMAT, originally established as part of a Department for Education project, benefitted from additional funding and support due to the significant challenge presented.

In comparison to other trusts nationally, that are built around strong schools, representatives at SJCMAT noted how they had to build their own capacity and develop an operating model while onboarding schools at pace, making them strong and resilient.

Serving some of the country’s most disadvantaged communities, the trust believes that every child is entitled to an excellent Catholic education and to leave school with great qualifications so they can have choices in life. With some scepticism from headteachers and governors around joining a multi academy trust, we asked leaders at SJCMAT what they believe are the main benefits for schools considering joining.

Executive leaders shared how ‘SJCMAT’s mission is to transform children’s lives through world-class Catholic education’. The trust aims to fulfil this mission through professional development opportunities available to all staff. Leaders also noted how joining a trust should feel like being part of a family that is stronger together. Schools part of SJCMAT benefit from access to excellent support and enhanced resources, including estates, health and safety, IT, finance, governance, compliance, legal, HR, attendance, and above all, school improvement.

The trust was recently described as a ‘warm blanket’ by a headteacher, providing a safety net for whatever challenges the school faces, and delivering effective wraparound support to ensure they cannot fail.

As the process of joining a trust can be very disruptive for a school and mean a lot of change for everyone, we asked SJCMAT if joining the trust actually benefits children or if it is just another ideology.

“At St Joseph’s, we ensure that schools are managed effectively and efficiently so that more money is invested in providing an excellent education, more money is available for resources, and more is invested in high-quality learning environments.

“Every part of our strategy is aimed at transforming children’s lives, and we can already see the impact in terms of significantly improved outcomes. A key focus is to ensure that every child learns to read and goes on to enjoy reading for pleasure,” one leader commented.

Another question schools ask when considering joining a trust, is if they will lose their autonomy.

Leaders at SJCMAT highlighted how a school’s headteacher has the autonomy to make decisions, in the context of an agreed trust framework.

“We describe this as aligned autonomy because we have a high alignment, we also have high autonomy,” an executive leader shared.

The trust also noted how in some areas there is greater alignment, for example, when referencing safeguarding, health and safety or finance systems. However, in other areas the unique context and challenges of the school dictate what is needed, so it can never be a ‘one-size-fits-all’.

We asked leaders at SJCMAT if all schools are required to follow a particular curriculum.

Leaders noted how they understand the hard work and time that goes into planning lessons. The trust doesn’t want teachers to have to reinvent the wheel or waste time finding the best resources for a lesson, so they have invested in a trust curriculum.

One leader shared: “Our aim is for all elements of the trust curriculum to be fully resourced. We know that this saves teachers a lot of time and ensures consistency for the pupils. The trust curriculum is available to all schools – however, not all schools have to follow this curriculum.”

If a school already has an excellent English curriculum, this will not need to change. Headteachers work with the director of education to develop a three-year plan based on the school’s priorities to identify the most appropriate support for the school.

For any schools that are interested in joining SJCMAT, they will need to contact the CEO to arrange an initial meeting. Schools can then arrange a visit to one of the trust’s schools to learn more.

Hope Academy triumphs at the Rotary Youth Speaks Competition

Three Year 7 students from Hope Academy have been crowned winners of the 2025 Rotary Youth Speaks Competition, for the Golborne district heats.

The annual competition challenges teams of three students to take on distinct speaking roles: chairperson, speaker, and proposer of the vote of thanks. Competitors must adhere to strict time limits and meet specific judging criteria to succeed.

Demonstrating exceptional teamwork, confidence, and energy, Hope Academy’s Year 7 team - Sophie, Emily and Emmacaptivated the judges and audience with their compelling speech on the demonisation of animals, securing a welldeserved victory.

Sophie said: “It was an enjoyable experience as I was able to work alongside my close friends and it was an amazing atmosphere because the audience were fully engaged and listening to our important speech. I loved it and I can’t wait to perform again!”

The Rotary Youth Speaks Competition began in 2005 and the winning team that year was Newton Community High School, now known as Hope Academy.

Miss Amy Green, assistant principal at Hope Academy, leads the Debate Club. She commented: “We have a rich history in debating and I’m so proud of the students who took part in this year’s Rotary Youth Speaks Competition.

“It is the third consecutive year that we have been successful with both intermediate and senior teams and our Debate Club

continues to grow from strength to strength with our superbly talented students.”

Miss Green added: “Our Year 7 team will now compete in the regional final, which will be held here at Hope Academy on 12 March, and we wish them the best of luck!”

Principal of Hope Academy, Mrs Marie Adams, added: “Once again, our brilliant students have made us very proud. Debating is a unique talent and watching them articulate their thoughts with such clarity and confidence is truly inspiring. Their dedication and teamwork have shone through, and we could not be prouder of their achievements.”

Hope Academy is proud to be part of All Saints Multi Academy Trust.

Maricourt Catholic High School students attend careers event

Year 9 students at Maricourt Catholic High School are in the process of making some important decisions about their future careers and choosing their options for study as they get ready to embark on their GCSEs in September 2025.

In preparation for choosing their options, students have participated in several exciting careers sessions, covering topics such as self-awareness, equality, decision-making, opportunity awareness and finance.

To help them make informed decisions, students explored the skills required for work experience placements.

As part of the careers carousel at the school, Year 9 had the opportunity to meet a variety of employers from different sectors.

The event was coordinated by the school’s external partner, Elevate EBP.

Mrs Wood, careers leader at Maricourt, said: “Year 9 engaged brilliantly with the employers and had prepared suitable questions to find out about employment choices and skills required whilst making strong links with specific subject curriculum areas.”

Feedback from the students was incredible and they commented on how much they enjoyed the session and gained so much key information that has made them consider their decisions, next steps, and Year 9 options choices.

The school also received fantastic feedback from employers, who commented on how much they enjoyed visiting Maricourt.

Mrs Wood added: “It was great to see the students actively getting involved and confidently speaking to employers to find out more details about specific job roles. They really did showcase our school’s Mercy Values, and I am very proud of them all.

“Well done to all Year 9 students involved, this is a big step for

Inspirational PE teacher runs 10K barefoot every day for Alzheimer’s Society

A remarkable PE teacher from Our Lady of Pity Catholic Primary School, Greasby, has pledged to run 10 kilometres barefoot every day for a year, to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society.

Phill Hayward, who has worked at the school for 12 years, is currently six months into his gruelling fundraising campaign.

Since July 2024, he braved all kinds of weather, including the snow and ice that hit the Wirral in early January, raising over £6,000 for the charity so far.

In 2015, Phill’s grandad was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Phill has witnessed the emotional and physical toll the diagnosis has had on his beloved grandad and everyone around him. Phill said: “Three years after completing my last challenge, I have decided to hit the tarmac again and take it even further by doing it in bare feet.”

“By the time I have completed this challenge, it would be 10 years since my grandad’s diagnosis. Alzheimer’s has taken so much from my family, especially my nan and my mum. It has been heartbreaking to watch.”

Staff and pupils at Our Lady of Pity Catholic Primary School have been supporting Phill, with teachers running with him or children cheering him on.

Head of school, Mrs Kathryn Dunne, commented: “We all think Mr Hayward is absolutely incredible. Whenever he runs around the school field and playground after school, we make sure to wave and offer him words of encouragement.

“Phill is a fantastic role model for the whole community. What he is doing takes real courage and commitment, and we are incredibly proud of him.”

To support Phill Hayward, visit his GoFundMe page: www.gofundme.com/Barefoot-10k-a-day-for-a-year

Students get once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the University of Cambridge

On Wednesday, 12 February, a group of Year 9, 10, and 11

students from Saint Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic Academy had the opportunity of a lifetime to visit the historic and world-renowned University of Cambridge.

The experience was a chance for students to not only broaden their horizons but also inspire them to think deeply about their futures in higher education.

The University of Cambridge, founded in 1209, is one of the world’s oldest universities and academic learning centres.

Steeped in rich history, the university attracts visitors from around the world. Its museums and collections also hold many treasures, giving insight into the scholarly activities of the university’s academics and students.

During the visit, the students were given exclusive tours of two of Cambridge’s iconic colleges, Magdalene College and Jesus College. They walked the halls and learned about life at University.

To enable students to gain a deeper understanding of the academic world they could one day be a part of, they participated in engaging taster lectures across various subjects.

The visit was organised by the school to help students who are considering university as a pathway, to delve into the academic world of higher education and identify if this could be the right path for them.

For some students, the visit solidified their plans to attend university and sparked more excitement in taking their next steps.

The exposure to Cambridge’s academic environment and the discussions they were a part of around personal growth, academic challenges, and future opportunities supported students to realise that higher education is well within their reach.

The Salesian Academy of St John Bosco receive ‘Good’ rating from Catholic Schools Inspectorate

The Salesian Academy of St John Bosco in Bootle recently underwent its Catholic Schools Inspection, conducted between 22 and 23 January 2025.

Following the inspection, the school was delighted to be awarded a ‘Good’ judgement, with six out of nine subsections judges to be ‘Outstanding’ and the remaining three judged as ‘Good’.

The report highlighted the school’s key strengths in Catholic life and mission, as well as collective worship. Inspectors noted that “all staff serve as outstanding role models; pastoral care is outstanding, with a real focus on supporting the most vulnerable within its community,” and that “pupil behaviour is exemplary.”

Inspectors shared how the school truly lives out its core mission and values, commenting that “students fully understand the school’s mission statement, speaking eloquently about the principles of respect, understanding, affection, and humour.”

The report also acknowledged how students “know that they are loved and know that they have to model that to feel loved themselves.”

One student commented: “The school is like a moral compass, which helps with the decisions I make when I’m with my friends and the staff.”

This sentiment was echoed in the report, which stated that “all staff, expertly led by senior leaders and the school’s chaplain, strive to offer opportunities that enable students to respond to the needs of their peers, the local community, and those further afield.”

Headteacher, Sue Bourgade, commented on the inspection outcome: “It is a testament to the hard work and commitment of everyone within the community that the school has achieved this judgement. It reflects our mission as a Catholic Salesian school and the aspiration and love we have for all of our pupils, and for this we are very proud.”

The full report is available to read here: www.thesalesiansacademyofstjohnbosco.org/ InspectionReports/

Forest school provision blossoms at Catholic primary school

St Augustine’s Catholic Primary School and Nursery, part of Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust, continues to enrich its curriculum through its on-site Forest School, which has thrived since its inception in 2023.

After successfully achieving her Level 3 Forest School Leader certification, teacher Miss Jessica Jones can now deliver the programme year-round in structured six-week blocks for each year group, taking place every Friday for two hours.

She said: “Becoming a qualified Forest School Leader has been such a fulfilling journey. I’m excited to lead the children through new challenges, helping them build vital life skills while connecting with the outdoors. We are incredibly lucky to have such extensive grounds here at St Augustine’s, which provide the perfect setting for learning and exploration.”

The Forest School programme is a popular offering and forms part of the after-school activities.

A parent said: “I had a brilliant time with my daughter. Thank you very much for the opportunity to see what she does in the Forest School. She enjoys it so much.”

Under Jessica’s guidance, the Forest School has introduced new activities such as building dens, making fires, rope skills and scavenging, helping to further develop children’s resilience and teamwork.

One pupil said: “I can climb the St Augustine’s Tree quite easily, so I help my friends who might find it a bit tricky.”

Jessica added: “I love watching the children overcome challenges, whether it’s building shelters or climbing the St Augustine’s Tree. It’s in those moments they realise just how much they are capable of.”

Interim head of school, Mrs Elizabeth Lambe, said: “We are incredibly proud of the outdoor learning opportunities we offer our pupils. The Forest School is now an essential part of their development, helping them grow in confidence, creativity, and resilience while engaging with nature in a meaningful way.”

Widnes primary school welcome Halton’s new director of education, inclusion and provision

St Gerard’s Catholic Primary and Nursery School, Widnes, recently welcomed the newly appointed director of education, inclusion and provision in Halton, Ben Holmes, to officially open its new outdoor provision, ‘Little Explorer two-year-olds’.

Ben cut the ribbon and declared the new outdoor area ready to use and explore.

St Gerard’s introduced its new two-year-old provision back in September, and it has been a real success. The two-year-old children now benefit from their very own purpose-built outdoor space, supporting them to develop their learning and skills even further.

Headteacher, Mr Landrum, and early year lead, Mrs Tickle, shared their pride on what the provision has achieved so far. The outdoor provision forms part of the school’s early years offering and offers a new way for the children to learn and explore.

Headteacher at St Gerard’s Catholic Primary and Nursery School, Mr Landrum, said: “We are delighted to officially open our new outdoor learning space ‘Little explorer two-year olds’.

“The space forms part of our two-year-old provision, launched in September, and will support children to develop their learning and skills further in a purpose-built outdoor learning space.”

St Gerard’s now offer wraparound care for children aged 2-11 from 7.30am – 6pm each day, during term time only.

Acclaim for St Mary’s College production of classical Greek tragedy

Students at St Mary’s College, Crosby, have achieved a major success with their new production of a challenging 2,500-yearold classical Greek tragedy, Hippolytus by Euripides.

Around 35 talented young actors, musicians and dancers from the Crosby-based school presented Hippolytus by Euripides in the prestigious surroundings of Liverpool Hope University’s Capstone Theatre, close to the city centre.

Lola Thomason (Aphrodite) and Keisi Carrillo Nicolas (Artemis) did an outstanding job in portraying these complex and powerful goddesses, while there was another excellent performance by Sebastian Handley, who took on the title role of Hippolytus.

Other leading parts were taken by Verity Clark (Phaedra) and Ben Bearon (Theseus).

The production also featured a classical Greek chorus of 14 students and a five-piece on-stage band, led by Anna Quint and Sophie Jones. The music was accompanied by a number of dances including captivating solo dance performances by Lola Thomason and Kevin Turner.

Commenting on the production of Hippolytus St Mary’s head of classics, Mrs Nancy Moore, said: “Yet again our appreciative audience was treated to a first-class production and our students richly deserved the standing ovation they received at the end of the play. In fact, I think this was our best production yet!

“The acting, musical and dancing talent on display was outstanding, and the student’s hard work and determination were also apparent for all to see.”

Mrs Moore added: “More than anything this was a company production, with all the students on stage and behind the scenes joining forces to make the evening the outstanding success it was.

“By working together everyone involved helped to convey the power of this classical Greek tragedy, while at the same time making the ancient play fresh and relevant to a modern audience,”

Prepare the Way of the Lord and Make His Paths Straight: Catholic Schools in the Jubilee Year

As Ash Wednesday approaches and the season of Lent begins, our schools and colleges are focusing on the celebration within a Jubilee Year. The call to “Prepare the way of the Lord and make his paths straight” (Isaiah 40:3) resonates deeply with Catholic schools, which have a unique role in guiding young people toward a faith-filled life.

Our schools and colleges have been focusing on the Jubilee Year and examining the theme Pilgrims of Hope. You will see many displays reflecting this theme, encouraging students and staff to engage with their faith in a meaningful way. On Ash Wednesday, students will receive their ashes in Mass as a public sign of faith and repentance. During the season of Lent, they will focus on the three key themes: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.

Prayer: Strengthening Faith and Guidance

Prayer is at the centre of all that happens in our schools and colleges. The school day starts and ends with prayer. In our schools, young people lead their collective worship with the aid of their dedicated staff. Prayer helps young people develop a relationship with God, find guidance, and strengthen their faith. It also provides them with resilience and wisdom to face life’s challenges.

Fasting: A Lesson in Sacrifice and Solidarity

CAFOD Fast Day is on Friday, 14 March. Our schools and colleges will be actively taking part in this day. The theme this year is Pilgrims of Hope, chosen to inspire peacebuilding in a world threatened by climate change and conflict. CAFOD’s mission is to help people who are suffering the effects of these issues, and by fasting, students express solidarity with those in need.

Almsgiving: Acts of Kindness and Hope

Our schools and colleges are always actively involved in raising money for charities and local causes. However, almsgiving is not just about raising money; it is about acts of kindness and showing love to others. Pope Francis has emphasised that an act of kindness is an act of hope. Through service projects and charitable activities, students will embody the spirit of giving and compassion.

Catholic schools and colleges are not just places of learning; they are sacred spaces where the message of Christ is lived out daily. By embracing the themes of the Jubilee Year and striving to “make His paths straight,” schools can nurture students in faith, inspire action, and create a lasting impact on the Church and society.

As we prepare the way of the Lord, Catholic schools have the profound responsibility and privilege of shaping a generation of young people who will carry the light of Christ into the world. In this special time of grace, may our schools be beacons of hope, faith, and love.

Joan McCarthy Director of Education Archdiocese of Liverpool

Primary school joins growing multi academy trust

Ss Peter & Paul Catholic Primary School has officially joined Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust (HFCMAT).

Celebrations took place in school on Monday, 3 February, as CEO of the Trust, Andy Moor, formally welcomed pupils and staff into the growing family of schools.

Ss Peter & Paul has a proud history of providing a nurturing and high-quality Catholic education to its pupils.

The school upholds high expectations and ambitious aspirations for every child, encouraging them to flourish on an intrapersonal, interpersonal, societal, and global scale.

Headteacher, Tom Wallace, said: “We are thrilled to be joining HFCMAT at such an exciting time. The opportunities to help inspire our children, support staff and develop further community links with New Brighton was a real driver for joining the MAT. We can’t wait to work with the family of schools across the MAT to share best practice and ideas to help move our school forward.”

By joining the Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust, Ss Peter & Paul will benefit from a wealth of shared expertise, enhanced resources, and collaborative opportunities that will further enrich the school community.

Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust is based in Bebington, Wirral. Its vision is to form, inspire, and transform the lives of students through Catholic faith and values. The core values of trust, respect, innovation, and courage underpin all aspects of the Trust’s work.

Andy Moor, CEO of Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust, commented: “We are delighted to officially welcome Ss Peter & Paul Catholic Primary School into our Trust. The school has a strong sense of community, and we are excited to be part of its journey moving forward.

“Collaboration is at the heart of our Trust, and by working closely with Ss Peter & Paul, we aim to build on its strong foundations, offering additional learning opportunities and resources for pupils and staff.”

Brand-new nursery building in Preston receives special blessing

The Archbishop of Liverpool, The Most Reverend Malcolm McMahon OP, has blessed a brand-new nursery building at St Mary Magdalen’s Catholic Primary School in Preston.

Archbishop McMahon was welcomed with a rousing rendition of the school’s adopted hymn ‘All are Welcome’ which sews the seeds for the local community who are all very welcome at the school.

The brand-new bespoke building, Mighty Minis, has been 18 months in planning and will be open to 15 children daily from 3 years and over.

School leaders and governors secured funding, with the Archdiocese of Liverpool committing £160,000 towards the new building.

Father Ian McParland and the parishioners of St Mary Magdalen’s generously donated a car park at the back of the church building, adjacent to the school, while the project was in development.

Mrs Bradley, EYFS lead, commented: “The idea of the nursery was to cement relationships with our parents from a very early age and to provide our youngest children with an environment befitting their development.”

Mrs McKinnon, headteacher at St Mary Magdalen’s Catholic Primary School, explained that the commitment from the Archdiocese of Liverpool was not the only windfall that the school had received recently. £25,000 was donated from the Environment Agency to redevelop the playground thanks to the flood defence work on the River Ribble.

Mrs McKinnon said: “We are thrilled at the commitment to redevelop parts of our school – with a new nursery building and a brand-new playground which the children helped design, our school is really going places.

“The blessing of our nursery was a really special day for our school, and I have no doubt it will live on in both our children’s and staff’s memories for a very long time.”

The school also welcomed David Shaw, Mayor of Penwortham; Father Ian McParland, parish priest of St Teresa’s & St Mary Magdalen’s, Penwortham; Mrs A Cooper, headteacher at All Hallows Catholic High School, Penwortham; Mr and Mrs Jones, SVP at St Mary Magdalen; and governors of the school.

Mums the Word

I hope you are all staying well and warm in this cold weather! Winter seems to be neverending at the moment, but let us stay positive spring is on the way.

There has not been much activity during the last couple of months for UCM foundations, as it is too dark and cold to go out. Instead, we’ve been bundled up inside, getting ready for our upcoming activity in the warmer months.

Last year, we decided to cancel the January Bi-Monthly Mass due to the hazardous snow and ice conditions we’ve experienced in recent years. For the safety of our members, we felt it was best to skip the January Mass.

Our 1st Bi-monthly Mass is at St. Margaret Mary’s Church at 7.30pm on Monday 10 March. This will be our charity Mass, when we present a chosen charity with a donation. We also donate every year to the Priests training fund. I hope to see as many as possible at this Mass - let us hope the weather will be kinder!

Finally, on a sad note, our Deputy President Maureen Finnegan’s husband Jimmy passed away very suddenly on Friday 14 February. Please keep Maureen and all her family in our prayers.

Kathy Buck Liverpool Archdiocesan UCM President

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

Election time for the Knights

As the year moves on from the cold, dark days of January towards the lighter nights in February and March, we continue to look ahead. Within the knights we hold our elections for new officers, both for our local councils and for the province, during our February and March meetings. My own council – 146 Southport – had our discussions and nominations during our February meeting while the provincial nominations were held during our December provincial meeting.

The opportunity to take part in the leadership of a council – local or provincial – is part of the joy of being a knight and we value and celebrate our previous council and provincial grand knights by bestowing on them the title of ‘Immediate Past Grand Knight’ (IPGK) or ‘Immediate Past Provincial Grand Knight’ (IPPGK) and encouraging them to support their successors during their term of office, ensuring best practice is passed down seamlessly from one to the next.

Relics Tour

The Relics Tour – Relics of Saint Columba – commenced in Edinburgh on 6 January and after visiting several churches there, it moved on to Glasgow. From there, Motherwell is next on the itinerary before the relics are taken south to Cumbria.

Welfare update

We now have a ‘KSC Welfare’ page on Facebook. Please feel free to contact it for prayer requests for brothers, family members, widows or clergy.

Social update

The Annual Golf Weekend is planned for 29-31 March and will be held at Hill Valley Golf Club in Whitchurch. It includes two nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast and three rounds of golf. For more information, email ipsk@ksc.org.uk.

News from the councils

The photograph below shows the prize presentation at Saint Bede’s Catholic Junior School following the Christmas art competition run by Council 18 (Widnes). Head teacher Faith Tiernan and her colleague Abigail Ramsey oversaw the competition and were delighted to have their students take part.

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

Phil Woods, Provincial Publicity Officer

Our Jubilee Plans

By Father Simon Gore from Animate Youth Ministries

For the Jubilee Year, Animate Youth Ministries have created a series of retreat days and resources based around the concept of Pilgrims of Hope, as Father Simon Gore explains.

Years 5 and 6

Being a Pilgrim of Hope: The start of my pilgrimage journey

A retreat day for primary school pupils, with Year 5s included for the first time. This offers a chance to think how they can begin their journey to be Pilgrims of Hope. They will be asked to think what it means to not just walk on our own in this world but beside others: caring for our world and making sure it is a better place for those who will become the new generation of pilgrims in the future, with the understanding that everything we do, if done correctly, can make the journey easier for others.

Year 7

Being a Pilgrim of Hope: In my new community.

“Knock and the door will be opened” (Matthew 7:7-8). A door can symbolise many things. For us in the Church, it can be a sign of invitation. Whether we decide to open that door is up to us, but when we do take the initial step through, a change or renewal begins. This retreat invites Year 7s to reflect on how they have opened a door leading to a new school with new opportunities and, most importantly, a new community. As well, another doorway of faith has been offered to them. “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

Year 8

Being a Pilgrim of Hope: Transformed by the Spirit

The Jubilee logo includes an anchor and waves. The anchor symbolises hope, the waves the challenges on life’s pilgrimage. This retreat encourages Year 8s to think how the Sacrament of Confirmation transforms us to be fuller members of the Christian community. It will ask them to focus on the waves they may face in their lives while remembering the stability the anchor provides. The day will not focus on Confirmation, though it will be mentioned, and participants will be challenged to ponder what the Sacrament could offer them. It is suitable for those not being confirmed in 2025.

Year 9 and 10

Being a Pilgrim of Hope: Servant Leadership

When Pope Francis spoke to young leaders at World Youth Day in 2023, he said: “Dream big, God does too!” This is a day for those who have already received Confirmation and would like to

youth ministry

continue their pilgrim journey by focusing on what it means to be a leader in the Church and in the world. The Pope also said: “Follow Jesus with confidence, thinking of your growth not as a way of raising yourself above others, but as a way of lowering yourself to serve them.” There are two dates for this – Tuesday 10 June or Tuesday 25 November 2025 – and the day is free, with eight people (max) per school.

Year 11 and Sixth Form

Being a Pilgrim of Hope: Where do I go from here?

Within a society radically anchored to life within the present, it is difficult to imagine what life will be like in the future. We sometimes find ourselves trapped within the anxieties of what may have happened in our past and fear what is to come. But it is in remembering that we have all been called by the Lord that we can see beyond our hopes and fears. This day is a chance for young people to be reminded of their own worth as they think about the next stage of their journey. It is free to attend and scheduled for Wednesday 1 October, with the choice of a morning or afternoon session.

Additionally, please note the following, which are not related to specific school groups:

Music Ministry

To create something with a lasting effect for our archdiocese and young people, we are working to create a Music Ministry programme to give youngsters more involvement in our liturgies and Masses. We hope to know more this month and to share opportunities for any young people wishing to take part. Please think of anyone who may be interested and contact us for more details.

Jack Traynor FIA reflection point

A new Faith In Action resource for schools and parishes that marries the theme of the Jubilee Year with Jack Traynor’s miraculous Lourdes cure. It will be available from 18 February.

Faith in Action partners

A meeting for adults who might like to be a Pilgrim of Hope but are not sure how. We will offer a reminder of the opportunities they have to be involved in the FIA award scheme and how they can support young people in our archdiocese by being one of our FIA partners.

For more information, contact admin@animateyouth.co.uk.

Dialogue and Unity Youth and the Church

By Ultan Russell, Archdiocesan Ecumenical Officer

Two central events took place in Unity Week for the Churches Together in Merseyside (CTMR). Firstly, the Two Cathedrals Service on 26 January at the Anglican Cathedral, at which Archbishop Malcolm McMahon preached. And secondly, the annual forum where church leaders and denominational representatives met to reflect on a key area of concern. Last year’s topic was ‘Multi-racial Church’ and this year it was ‘Young People’.

The forum began with worship led by the Rev Phil Jump, the CTMR chair who is regional minister for the NW Baptist Association. He underlined the long and fruitful history of interchurch relations on Merseyside. Prayers that were used reflected the writings of the Early Fathers as this year we mark 1,700 years since the First Council of Nicaea.

Among those attending, we discovered that everyone had come to their faith before the age of 26. The challenge then is as follows: where is the future church when we seem to have so few people under 26 in the vast majority of congregations?

Alice Tonks, a Salvation Army youth worker, stressed the complex world in which young people lived today – social media, artificial intelligence, vastly different social and cultural attitudes to past generations. It could be difficult for those with a heart for Jesus to know where and how to express faith. Alice posed a question to those attending: “What are we as a church prepared to sacrifice?”

Mike Sutcliffe, a children’s worker for the Liverpool South circuit, asked: “How do we help people under 26 to know that Jesus is their firm foundation?” Meanwhile, Esther Walters, an intern at Maghull Baptist Church, stressed that adaptability was key in ensuring young people participated, and that our ways of expressing faith must adapt. Jesus was adaptable and approachable, and focused on the individual – the women at the well, the rich young man, lepers and outcasts. She asked: “What is the biggest barrier in our church that you identify that prevents people under 26 engaging?”

After group work, the following were some of the insights shared:

• “A generous budget allocation is needed for youth and children’s work.”

• “Honest sharing is vital rather than pussyfooting around difficult issues.”

• “We must not dictate the journey of young people.”

• “We need concern about people’s whole needs, not just faith.”

• “Young people are very Biblical, and their concern about justice, peace, poverty and the environment shames the older generation.”

• “Young people are not all the same, and both cathedrals have many young people engaged in traditional stuff!”

• “We must recognise cultural change is not always bad.”

Among those participating from the Archdiocese of Liverpool were Sister Moira Meeghan, sharing the creative and inclusive initiatives that she was engaged with as an outreach worker at the Irenaeus Centre; Pat Murphy, the Archdiocesan Representative on the National Board of Catholic Women, who brought her vast experience of Lourdes and the faith it ignites in young people; and Marie-Therese Lacey, who offers sensitive pastoral care as a chaplain at Liverpool Hope University operating in an ecumenical context.

A prayer from Pope Francis for Young People: Lord Jesus your Church turns her attention to all the young people of the world. We pray that they might boldly take charge of their lives, aim for the most beautiful and profound things of life! and always keep their hearts unencumbered.

Accompanied by wise and generous guides, help them respond to the call! make to each of them, to realise a proper plan of life and achieve happiness. Keep their hearts open to dreaming great dreams! and make them concerned for the good of others.

Like the Beloved Disciple, may they stand at the foot of the Cross, to receive your Mother as a gift from you. May they be witnesses to your Resurrection. and be aware that you are at their side. as they joyously proclaim you as Lord. Amen.