Catholic Pic May 2023

Welcome

Last month we said farewell to the Jesuits as they left St Francis Xavier 175 years after the church opened in 1848. The occasion was marked by a visit from the Jesuit Superior General Father Arturo Sosa SJ on Tuesday 11 April and the following Sunday, 16 April, Parish Priest, Father Denis Blackledge SJ celebrated a Mass of Gratitude and Thanksgiving. Father Chris McCoy has now been appointed as Parish Priest. We give thanks for the many years of service which the Jesuits have given throughout the archdiocese.

I too must say farewell this month as this will be my last edition as Editor of the ‘Catholic Pic’. I will be leaving my role in the archdiocese and standing down as Press Officer and Editor. I thank Kim O’Brien and all the staff, past and present, from the publishers, CPMM Limited, for their unfailing support and generous help and guidance over many years. My most grateful thanks go to the priests and parishioners who have supported me in my work and to you, the readers of the ‘Catholic Pic’, who make this publication possible.

May God bless you all in the future.

From the Archbishop’s Desk

King Charles’ coronation has been a wonderful occasion in the life of our nation. It has brought together people of many faiths and from different aspects of British society. The celebrations which the whole country has enjoyed have been truly thankful in character. We have much to be thankful for and the coronation has given a context and a liturgy to our gratitude.

The doomsayers, however, have said that this will be the last coronation because we no longer share a common faith, and much of the ceremonial has lost its meaning, especially to the young. I don’t believe that. Our young people crave to have meaning in their lives and religious ceremonial, liturgy, gives expression to this search for meaning. The coronation ceremony is when all is said and done a liturgy in which our monarch is anointed by God to govern and serve.

Jesus admonishes his disciples by telling them that it is the kings of the gentiles who lord over their subjects, but this is not to be their way. Jesus himself showed that service is at the heart of true kingship and that being of service is at the core of Christian leadership. In sanctifying the service of King Charles by the coronation the service which is given generously and selflessly by so many in our society is also solemnised and recognised. Future coronations may be very different to that of King Charles but at their heart will be the example of Jesus, the King who came to serve and not be served.

Most Reverend Malcolm McMahon OP Archbishop of Liverpool

Editor Peter Heneghan

Editorial Catholic Pictorial Magazine, St Margaret

Contents:

4 Main Feature Jesuits bid farewell to Liverpool

7 Sunday Reflections

Liturgy and Life

8 From the archives

Pointing the way forward

11 News News from around the archdiocese

15 Cathedral Record

The Coronation and Eurovision

16 What’s On Whats happening in the Archdiocese

18 Pastoral Ponderings

Pastoral Development

27 Animate Youth Ministry

Why my calling still makes sense today

28 Pic Extras

Mums the word

News from the KSC

29 Nugent News

An Eggs-tra Special Easter at Nugent

30 Dialogue and Unity

Mission in the Economy (MitE) –reaching out in the region

Jesuits bid farewell to Liverpool

by Simon Hart

There was, inevitably, sadness but there was also a strong sense of gratitude when the Jesuits said their farewell to Liverpool Archdiocese last month.

After 175 years, the order’s time in the city ended with a final Sunday Mass celebrated by Father Denis Blackledge, the outgoing parish priest, at Saint Francis Xavier’s Church on Sunday 16 April. Five days earlier, on Tuesday 11th, Father Arturo Sosa, Father General of the Jesuit order, had celebrated an official Farewell Mass at SFX and afterwards unveiled a plaque commemorating the Jesuit ministry in the parish.

It was Fr Sosa’s first visit to the British province. Moreover, not since 1848, and the church’s opening, had a Jesuit Father General made the journey to Liverpool.

Reflecting on his visit, which included a tour of the two Cathedrals, Fr Sosa said: ‘The Jesuits have done a lot of work here and it’s to say thank you to the community, the people, the city and to know a little bit of the history of our brothers here.

‘It’s not only the parish but the school. We are very proud of our brothers who’ve gone before us.’

The school that the Jesuits established, St Francis Xavier College, was set up in 1842. By the 1880s it had become the largest Catholic secondary day school for boys in Britain.

SFX Church opened in 1848, meanwhile, and in the 1860s was the biggest parish in England and Wales. In his homily, Fr Sosa added: ‘As a visitor, it gives me great pride to see what the people of God have done in this place over such a long time. ‘But I know there is sadness in parting. A big part of that sadness is down to the departure of people we love. Fr Denis has served as your parish priest here for a very happy six years, well into the age of retirement.

‘Not so long ago, Fr Joe Duggan died. Many of you miss him. Brother Ken Vance, for his part, has been part of the life of this parish since he was a boy and he came back so generously just recently to make sure the transition to a new parish priest would go well.’

With Fr Denis retiring at the age of 80, there was no available priest from the Jesuit order to replace him, meaning that Fr Chris McCoy, a diocesan priest, has taken his place.

Brother Ken, who grew up in the parish, felt the sadness of the Jesuits’ farewell as keenly as anybody, yet also shared

After 175 years, the Jesuits left the parish of St Francis Xavier in April.

“It is never just one group – the Jesuits – doing things. It’s a co-operation with people and over the years the amount of people that have been involved with the Jesuits is tens of thousands, if not more.”

that ‘deep gratitude’ expressed by Fr Sosa. He said: ‘He celebrated a lovely Mass thanking people for all the support and help they’d given the Jesuits over the years.

‘It is never just one group – the Jesuits – doing things. It’s a co-operation with people and over the years the amount of people that have been involved with the Jesuits is tens of thousands, if not more. There’s gratitude for that and the fact we can hand over something that has still got energy and life.

‘It is almost like a family album of the local community – you can go into SFX, look around and see 175 years of history in the walls, in the statues, in the windows, so it is a thank you.’

A long history

The Jesuit connection with this area of England dates back to the time of St Edmund Campion in the 16th century. The Blundell family, Lords of the Manor

of Crosby, had close links with the order, with Jesuits located at Crosby Hall in the 1600s. In 1707, Fr William Gillibrand became the first Jesuit to reside in Liverpool. In 1736, the first Jesuit chapel – St Mary’s – was built.

The Jesuit presence in Everton commenced in the 1840s when priests from Stonyhurst College arrived in Liverpool to set up SFX College.

‘We were also invited to run the parish and in its day SFX was the largest parish in England – it was 13,000 Catholics,’ explained Brother Ken.

‘I grew up in SFX parish, at the top of Brunswick Road. When I was a kid, there was a large number of Jesuits on the staff of the college. Then it moved out to Woolton in 1962.’

If parish numbers fell drastically in the wake of the 1960s slum clearances, SFX’s fortunes have gradually recovered over the decades since.

In 1984, a nationwide campaign saved the nave. To mark the parish’s 150th anniversary in 1998, the Window of the Hidden Saints was installed.

From 1999, Hope University transformed the derelict SFX schools by setting up a creative campus on the site. In 2000, the parishes of St Mary of the Angels and St Joseph’s amalgamated with SFX and the church was rewired and had its roof replaced.

In 2004, Faith Church of England and Catholic Primary School opened in the parish. The school has close links with the church and held a retirement service recently for Fr Denis. To underline the esteem in which he was held by the local community, Fr Denis received an Honorary Senior Fellowship from Hope University in January this year.

Father Arturo Sosa with Father Denis Blackledge after the unveiling of the commemorative plaque

Fresh energy

Looking back on recent milestones, Brother Ken cites 2008, Liverpool’s year as European Capital of Culture, as he recalls the parish’s hosting of an exhibition of objects gathered by the Jesuits, including Mary, Queen of Scots’ prayer book and Thomas More’s hats.

‘We displayed 70 objects around the church and for a whole month people were coming from around the world and that gave the church an energy and from that things changed,’ he remembered.

Additionally, he highlights the work of the Whitechapel Centre for the

Who are the Jesuits?

The Society of Jesus is the official name of the Jesuit order, which was founded in 1540 by Ignatius of Loyola, a Spanish soldier-turned-mystic whose mission was to ‘find God in all things’. It is the largest male religious order in the world with over 16,000 priests, brothers, scholastics and novices worldwide – including Pope Francis, the first Jesuit to become pontiff.

The order has four universal apostolic preferences which are:

• To show the way to God through the spiritual exercises and discernment.

Homeless across the road from the church, which is Liverpool’s largest homeless and housing charity.

Brother Ken, who will be based in Preston henceforth, continued: ‘I am going to stay on the management committee of the Whitechapel Centre. I was chair of that for 14 years. It’s the thing I am most proud of. When I started it had a staff of 12. Now there is a staff of 120. It is a marvellous organisation.’

‘There’s a lot of energy around SFX and not necessarily just those that go into Mass on Sunday,’ he adds. The challenge now is to sustain this energy in the new chapter ahead for one of our most historic churches.

• To walk with the poor, the outcasts of the world, in a mission of reconciliation and justice.

• To accompany young people in the creation of a hopefilled future.

• To collaborate in the care of our Common Home.

The commemorative plaque (top) and Father Denis celebrates the final Mass of Thanksgiving with new Parish Priest Father Chris McCoy (left) and Father Brendan O’Callaghan SJ

On a liturgical note

It certainly does not seem like four months since we were wishing each other a Happy New Year but the weeks and months are hastening by! May this year is marked by the continuation of Eastertide leading up to the Fiftieth Day (Pentecost) on Sunday 28th and in our popular devotions the month has a particularly Marian theme – the month we all love so well because the flowers and blossoms are beginning to take over and the spring is well and truly established (albeit with the odd April shower!).

As one of the devotional hymns associated with this month puts it: ‘Mary is beautiful, Mary is fair.’ Why? Because she is the one who points away from herself and directs us to her Son, Jesus, as we read in the second chapter of Saint John’s Gospel: ‘Do whatever he tells you.’ There can be nothing more beautiful, nothing more right and proper, than directing people towards Jesus and being – as Pope Francis might put it –missionary disciples.

Of course, May 2023 will be remembered for the Coronation of their Majesties King Charles and Queen Camilla. As St Paul reminds us in his letter to Timothy: ‘I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people — for kings and all those in authority, that

Sunday thoughts

I recently read an article about old men clinging to power. The obvious examples are US presidents Trump and Biden. But there are more, especially populist dictators. Power, it seems, is the old man’s vice, a fear of letting go.

I’m 75 this month. Does the same apply to priests? Bishops submit their resignation at 75. So do parish priests. The resignation may or may not be accepted but the offer has to be made. Pope Francis speaks frequently of retirement. There is always the temptation to think there is one more thing to be done; and done by ME. I’m indispensable. And there’s the fear shared by everyone facing retirement: what will I do with my time? I’ve yet to meet a person who has dreaded retirement but regretted it once it has happened. ‘I don’t know how I found the time to go to work,’ they now say. The ‘normal’ person retires and stays at home – the home they have spent a lifetime furnishing and decorating. They are established in their locality. They know their neighbours. They are familiar with local shops and amenities; with their dentist, doctor’s surgery

Canon Philip Gillespie

we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.’ (Chapter 2, verses 1-2)

So we should remember to pray for those entrusted with positions of leadership and guidance of the nations that they will be good examples of that integrity and gentleness of life which is the one sure way – and perhaps ultimately the most long-lasting way – of proclaiming the Gospel.

As if May did not already have enough milestone moments, here at the college in Rome we will keep our Patronal Feast of Saint Bede on the 25th. Bede was a monk who lived in England nearly 1,300 years ago (he died in 735). He was a great theological writer, a historian and lover of the Bible. He is buried in Durham Cathedral … perhaps another place which might appear in our pilgrimage planning this summer?

Gracious God, in company with our King, we rededicate ourselves to your service. Take our minds and think through them, take our lips and speak through them, take our hearts and set them on fire with love for you and your kingdom; that here we may have your peace, and in the world to come may see you face to face; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Mgr John Devine OBE

and where to get their car serviced. They know the window cleaner and what day the bin man comes. When a priest retires, however, he loses his home and he starts his life all over again. And he doesn’t have grandchildren to babysit.

A priest’s decision to retire is further complicated by our understanding of the priesthood as a vocation: a priest forever. There is added pressure from the realisation that there are fewer priests: ‘I’ll hold the fort. I may not be replaced.’ But maybe refusing to retire is frustrating the Holy Spirit’s plans for a Church with fewer priests and more lay leadership. They speak of ‘bed blockers’ in the NHS. I don’t want to be a ‘parish blocker’.

God is good. I will be celebrating 50 years as a priest in June. I’ve been blessed in my years as a priest with a succession of adventures. When the Archbishop asked me to serve in the Isle of Man I felt I had one more adventure left in me. And so it has proved. When it comes, my next adventure will be retirement. Letting go will open new possibilities. The adventure after that will be my final one, the greatest adventure of all.

Because He lives

Many years ago I met a Anne. She and her husband been faithful churchgoers throughout their lives until age and infirmity got the better of them.

John, who was the love of Anne’s life, died. Intelligent, articulate and crabbed, Ann wanted physical proof of the things of God and was blind to the God who was all around her and died pretty much despairing. So sad that she couldn’t see the God who was with her constantly. In John’s Gospel, as in the other accounts, we discover after the crucifixion that the disciples are frightened, gathered together trying to find comfort and help from one another, and Jesus comes and stands among them.

John is trying to show us a new kind of presence. It is a presence that can come through closed doors. It is a presence outside space or time. His greeting to them is Shalom, a word that for the Jews promises fulfilment. It is John’s way of showing us that in the presence of the risen Lord, we can find complete fulfilment. Because He lives, we can find true and lasting fulfilment.

Then Jesus shows them His hands and His side. The risen Jesus is still the wounded Jesus. It is a symbol of humanity. We enter into eternity in our wounded state. Jesus brings His wounded humanity before the Father and trusts in the Father’s love.

That is what we do, and the Father’s gaze of love will bring us to wholeness and peace. Then we will finally know that we don’t have to be perfect to be loved. We just have to trust and believe in this love. Our hope in the resurrection is that God will be God, that God will be the kind of lover that we understand. It was true for Jesus and so will be for us. Because He lives, we know that God can be trusted. The resurrection of Jesus is an invitation to really trust in God’s love and to believe that we will follow the Lord. There is no need to be afraid of your sin, your wounds or your brokenness. God’s love is enough. Because He lives forever, we too will live forever in His love.

Father Chris Thomas

Pointing the way forward

by Neil Sayer, Archdiocesan Archivist

To celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III, we’ve explored back issues of the Pic to see how his visits to Liverpool as Prince of Wales have been portrayed in our pages.

1979: Kirkby’s Little Singers of St Joseph the Worker received a grant from The Prince’s Trust for Young People, and Prince Charles expressed a wish to meet some of the boys personally on a visit to Liverpool. Among the choirboys who chatted and joked with the Prince and then provided him with an impromptu recital were Paul Colebourne, Lawrence Dodd and Keith Spencer.

2000: on a visit to inspect restoration work at the Victorian church of St Francis Xavier, Everton, the Prince is in conversation with Fr Frederick Lane SJ and Professor Simon Lee of Hope University.

1989: ‘lively children’ from Our Lady’s Primary School, Eldon Place, welcomed the Prince with ‘deafening cheers’, and he stopped to chat with pupils and teachers from the school.

1984: Prince Charles met with young recipients of Prince’s Trust funds in Birkenhead, then crossed under the Mersey to visit a youth training scheme in the old St Francis Xavier school buildings.

1986: with Dr John Ritchie, Chief Executive of Merseyside Development Corporation, at Liverpool’s Albert Dock. King Charles has always had an interest in urban regeneration schemes, and the redevelopment of the Albert Dock as a visitor centre was crucial to the city’s reinvention as a tourist destination. This was the year the Merseyside Maritime Museum opened on the site.

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My dear friends,

If you are feeling a little confused after hearing the gospel reading today, then that is quite understandable. After all Jesus’s disciples didn’t get it the first time and he used another parable to throw light on the first. The talk of shepherds, sheep and sheepfolds can also be difficult for us to grasp as agricultural terms are not often used in modern urban society.

Jesus shows by his parable in the first part of the gospel his close relationship with his sheep. The shepherd calls his sheep one by one; they know his voice and they follow him. There is a very close intimate relationship between the shepherd and the sheep. Since this is Vocations Sunday the emphasis for us today is on being called (the word ‘vocation’ comes from the Latin word vocare, which means to call): the sheep follow him because they know his voice. That call is made to every single person but how do we know what it is, or can we even hear it all? There is so much noise in today’s world how can we hear the voice of Jesus amid the cacophony of voices and sounds which assault our senses?

St John Paul II often spoke of the call of the Good Shepherd as the Universal Call to Holiness. Everyone who has been baptised has been called to holiness. That call is unique to each of us – he calls us one by one. Our journey through life in response to God’s loving purpose for us is different from the person sitting next to us. Some of us live out our vocation in a particular way such as by being married

and having a family. Others will live in a religious community. Many people respond to the call to holiness through the work they do, perhaps as a teacher or in a caring profession. There are as many ways of hearing God’s call and answering it as there are people on this earth. Our responsibility as Christians is to listen to God’s word and hear how he is calling us individually. Hearing the call of the Jesus and responding to it is not a simple process of making a lifestyle choice. It requires getting to know Jesus so we can recognise his voice amongst the many other attractions and opportunities in life. Jesus knows us but do we know him? One way to begin to know Jesus is through prayer, giving ourselves a short time of silence each day so that he may speak to us, and speak to us he will. Although the call is particular to each of us the way we find holiness is through each other in the church so that we may be one in Christ.

To make this clear Jesus goes on to say, ‘I am the gate of the sheepfold’. So, he’s not just the shepherd but also the way into the sheepfold. That doesn’t sound very clear at all, but what he is saying is that it is through him that we enter an even closer relationship with him and his Father in heaven. Any other offers which may be made to us, for our future satisfaction and happiness can be false. The beauty of this new relationship with Jesus is that it is safe and gives us the freedom to come and go, to be fed with rich pastures and have the fullness of life.

Next weekend, King Charles III will be crowned as King of Great Britain and

Northern Ireland. For him it will be the fulfilment of a long vocation. For many years we have watched as he remained faithful to his calling. In the coronation ceremony there is a moment when he is presented to the people and they respond in support by shouting with one voice, ‘God save the King’. When a priest or deacon is presented for ordination the people acclaim, ‘Thanks be to God’. These rites suggest to us that vocation doesn’t come from the Lord alone but is complemented by his Body, the Church. And that should give every one of us comfort because responding to our special calling should not be lonely but supported by the whole community of the Church. St John Henry Newman, who is much admired by King Charles, summed up vocation this way:

‘God has created me to do Him some definite service. He has committed some work to me which He has not committed to another.’

So far, I have only spoken about vocation in general. Traditionally, this Sunday is used to awaken the idea of a specific vocation to priesthood or the religious life in the minds of the people. Of course, we will always need priests and religious as signs of the kingdom to which we all aspire and to be of service to the Church and the world through sacraments and ministry. I cannot envisage a Church without priests and religious, so I do ask you if you are single to discern whether the Lord is calling you in these ways of being his disciple. It takes courage to take the first steps as it goes against the voices which are calling you to other things, but you will not be alone. Jesus the Good Shepherd and his flock will be with you every step of the way.

May the joy of the Risen Lord be with you and your families as you reflect on his call,

Most Rev Malcolm McMahon OP Archbishop of Liverpool

The following Pastoral Letter was read at all Masses on the Fourth Sunday of Easter, 30 April 2023.

News diary

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

Obituary of Rev Michael O’Dowd

scholarship, he became a pupil in St Edward’s, West Derby. After a year he began studies for the priesthood at St Joseph’s College, Upholland. During the summer holidays he helped with the St Francis de Sales scout trips and later worked as an auxiliary nurse at Newsham Hospital on the geriatric wards. His father also managed to get him a job at Liverpool Museum helping to restore a steam engine.

Father Michael O’Dowd, Parish Priest of St Agnes, Eccleston for almost 30 years, moral theologian, former Episcopal Vicar for Education and archdiocesan trustee died peacefully on the afternoon of Wednesday 29 March at St Catherine’s Hospice, Lostock Hall. He was 76 years of age and in the 52nd year of his priesthood.

Michael O’Dowd was born in Liverpool on 17 August 1946 to Patrick and Mary O’Dowd. In his family were Catherine, his sister, and Peter, his brother. Michael was baptised and made his first Communion in St Francis de Sales Church, Walton. He started school there but finished his primary education in St Matthew’s, Clubmoor, where he was also part of their altar boy team under the supervision of Miss Turner. When he was confirmed he took the name Edward. Passing the

Michael was ordained priest in the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King on 5 June 1971 and celebrated his First Mass in St Aloysius’ Church in Roby. After ordination, he was sent to Rome for two years for further study with an extra two years in St John’s College, Oxford.

In September 1975, Michael joined the formation staff at Ushaw College, Durham, to teach moral theology. He was also assistant procurator which meant that he chose and bought the wine for college feasts. He had further periods of study in the 1980s in Rome, Birmingham and San Francisco. He was a member of the Association of Teachers of Moral Theology and was their long-time secretary. He also served as a Medical Ethics Advisor/Consultant to a couple of Hospital Trusts. During college holidays, Michael supplied in different parishes in the north-east and the Cotswolds.

In 1993, after 18 years teaching in the seminary, Michael took up a new

appointment as Parish Priest of St Agnes’, Eccleston, Chorley. In October 1997, Archbishop Patrick Kelly asked him to take on the role of Episcopal Vicar for Education, a role he held until August 2019. At this point he became a member of the Archbishop’s Council and a Trustee of the Archdiocese. Later, he was asked to represent the archdiocese in the Apostleship of the Sea and this he did for many years. He was also a member of the board of Governors at Liverpool Hope University.

In 2021, Michael celebrated 50 years as a priest. It was only in September last year that he submitted his resignation as parish priest due to his declining health though he continued to live in the presbytery.

The last six months of Michael’s life were dominated by hospital appointments, various forms of treatment and worsening health. He was incredibly courageous in dealing with the effects of cancer and was very grateful for the care shown him by his GP and the staff in St Catherine’s Hospice where he spent the last month of his life.

His body was received into St Agnes church on the evening of Thursday 20 April when a simple vigil service took place. His Funeral Mass was celebrated at St Mary’s, Leyland on Friday 21 April prior to burial at St Peter and St Paul, Mawdesley.

Easter celebrations at St Mary’s, Leyland

There was an abundance of Easter joy for youngsters at St Mary’s, Leyland when parishioners organised a special celebration for them. At the end of the Easter morning Mass they gathered round the altar with bells, shakers and tambourines for the final hymn, ‘Lord of the Dance’.

The, everyone moved across to the Community Centre for a gathering which included food, an Easter Egg hunt, games, a visit from the Easter Bunny and an Easter Bonnet Parade; blessed with many different bonnets created by people of all ages and all joined in with the Parade.

RCIA – ‘we are all welcome’

by Elizabeth Parsons, Training Coordinator – Pastoral Development Department

Despite being a Catholic all my life, I had never been to a Rite of Election liturgy before. I had read through the ‘Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults’ book, but there’s nothing that can truly express the experience of it. It took me back to my own memories of Holy Communion and Confirmation: how in awe I was of the whole majesty of the event; how supportive it felt to have my sponsor’s hand on my shoulder while I committed myself to God; and the pride in my family’s face. These were the same expressions I saw reflected on the faces of people during the Rite of Election. As the crowd gathered, there was a variety of people attending and it was wonderful to see, people of different ages, backgrounds, and ethnicity. It was a joy to see so many new people wanting to commit to following Jesus Christ. I know many of us are worried about the reducing numbers in congregations and yet here were over 65 people committing to the Christian life with us. As they crowded in, meeting their RCIA coordinators, parish priests and other members of the parish community, it was clear they were soaking up every aspect of the day. Set against the backdrop of the wonderful lighting and

atmosphere of the Metropolitan Cathedral, there could be no mistaking this was a special occasion.

Archbishop Malcolm spoke in his homily that the Rite of Election is the ritual that marks their entry into the final phase of their preparation to receive the sacraments of initiation. Following the Rite of Election, they are called the elect, since they have been elected by the Church (in the person of the bishop) to become members. He commented that this is something they are doing publicly in front of their family, friends and parish

communities and how wonderful it was to see this many people petitioning to become part of the Church.

All around the world, other communities were participating in their own Rite of Election. In this celebration, we joined with the entire global communion of the Church to welcome new members. At the end of the service, I met a young family. The mum and dad from St Francis Xavier were both there as Catechumens and they had brought their little son with them. That image will stay with me, where we ‘all are welcome’ into the family of Christ’s Church.

Wigan celebrates St Patrick

St Patrick’s Church in Wigan celebrated their patronal feast in style in March, raising over £3,000 for Church Restoration Funds. The festivities began with a whole-school procession, into Church before Mass with St Patrick’s statue and various banners of St Patrick carried in.

On the Sanctuary, St Patrick’s Statue had been brightly adorned with beautiful flowers by the church’s talented team of flower arrangers and parishioners had arranged for shamrock from Ireland to complete the decorations. Parish Priest, Father Ian O’Shea, was joined by Canon Pat MacNally, and Deacon Anil Lukose at the altar. During his homily, delivered to an overflowing church, Father O’Shea encouraged the children to make a conscious effort to live more like Saint Patrick by trying to love each person of the Trinity more dearly. This year, Claire Ormshaw-Heddle sang two solos during Mass: ‘Our Lady of Knock’ during the offertory and ‘Ag Críost an Síol’(‘Christ is the Seed’) a traditional Gaelic hymn. The schoolchildren’s singing was fantastic and many in the congregation were seen drying their eyes during the recessional hymn which was ‘Hail Glorious Saint Patrick’. Later that evening, a group of younger parishioners organised a St Patrick’s Day Irish Night featuring Irish dancers, a

performing Irish artist, DJ, raffle and food; it was a true celebration of Irish culture and the influence of St Patrick in Wigan and beyond. For more photographs and to listen to Claire’s solos and the children’s singing, please visit the church’s Facebook Page: St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Wigan.

Archdiocese of Liverpool install bleed control packs in every parish centre

Life-saving bleed control packs have been installed in all 37 parish centres across the archdiocese after being inspired by the work that Ava White’s family have been doing since her tragic death in 2021.

Since Ava’s fatal stabbing, her family have been raising awareness through the Ava White Foundation of the benefits of public places having the packs that could potentially save lives if a person suffers a catastrophic bleed. The packs are designed to help blood loss in the critical moments before professional medical help arrives.

All parish centre managers will complete training in using the bleed control packs.

Jill Boggan, director of finance at the Archdiocese of Liverpool said: ‘We were all shocked and devastated at Ava’s death and as she was part of our archdiocesan community and we very much support the family in their quest to encourage public venues to have this life-saving equipment. Our parish centres are very much embedded in their local communities so they seemed like an ideal location to have the packs installed.

‘The operational management team, Brian Lowry and Kim Schofield, delivered the kits and all parish centre managers are very much behind the initiative. We want to raise awareness with the local community that they are there in case they ever do need to use them during an emergency.’

Ava’s mum Leeann White said: ‘We are so proud to hear that the Archdiocese of Liverpool has installed 37 lifesaving bleed control kits in Ava’s memory. We can’t thank you enough for all the love and support you have shown us.’

Ava’s family have set up a petition to make it a legal requirement to have bleed control kits in all public places. You can sign the petition at: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/636046

A list of the archdiocesan parish centres can be found at: https://www.liverpoolcatholic.org.uk/directory/ places?category=Parish+Centre

Celebrating St Oscar Romero

Outside El Salvador, only Liverpool has held a Mass to mark the anniversary of the martyrdom of St Oscar Romero every year since his assassination.

At this year’s event Father Dominic Curran welcomed people to the church of St Edmund of Canterbury in the Parish of St Oscar Romero, a parish that was formed with St Thomas of Canterbury in 2020. It seemed a fitting location to honour the life of an archbishop, assassinated in 1980 and officially recognised as a saint by Pope Francis on 14 October 2018.

The Mass echoed the themes of 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, and St Oscar Romero’s own words to ‘generously share the gifts we have received, in service to others’. This was then picked up by Peggy Healy in a talk on behalf of the Romero Trust. Peggy was a Maryknoll Sister for over 20 years who knew St Romero. She described him as a simple and humble man, and quite unassuming

in many ways, ‘but he had the impact of a giant. The impact of a saint’. Peggy also spoke of the darkness and the pain that she, St Romero, and her Maryknoll sisters experienced during El Salvador’s war-ravaged past. Nine months after Archbishop Romero was assassinated, death squads also killed Maryknoll Sisters Maura Clarke and Ita Ford, Ursuline Sister Dorothy Kazel, and lay missioner, Jean Donovan.

Peggy spoke of her work in Central America, promoting human rights and accompanying marginalised people. Following this, the audience reflected how they could continue the legacy of St Romero in their own communities. Working towards what St Romero said, ‘using what we have received from the Spirit, we can build a common homeland’. If you would like to watch the Vigil Mass or listen to Peggy’s talk, please contact Pablo Guidi, Catholic Social Action Coordinator p.guidi@rcaol.org.uk

by Pablo Guidi

(l-r) Operations manager Brian Lowry, Ava’s aunt June White, finance director Jill Boggan, Ava’s mum Leeann White and area manager Kim Schofield)

Obituary of Rev Vincent McShane Bishop Tom Neylon becomes a Cafod trustee

Father Vin McShane, first parish priest of St John Vianney, Liverpool and a dedicated member of the Archdiocesan Lourdes Association died on Tuesday 4 April, aged 60 and in the 36th year of his priesthood.

Vincent James McShane, one of eight children of Vincent Henry and Mary Teresa McShane (née O’Brien), was born in Liverpool on 7 January 1963. The family lived firstly at Blenheim Street and then at Mile End, Scotland Road. Vincent attended St Anthony’s Infant and Junior Schools. In 1974, he entered the junior seminary at St Michael’s College, Underley Hall in Kirby Lonsdale. This was at a time of considerable upheaval when the reorganisation of seminary provision in the Northern Province was taking place. He thus transferred to the junior seminary at St Joseph’s College, Upholland, in 1975, where he remained until he had completed the sixth form. He entered the senior seminary at St Cuthbert’s College, Ushaw, Durham in 1981 and there completed his studies for the priesthood. During his seminary formation, he had various pastoral placements, including Durham and Frankland prisons, and the parish of St Joseph, Ryhope, in the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle. Within the archdiocese he had placements at St Patrick’s, Wigan, and then at St Luke’s, Whiston. He was ordained priest by Archbishop Derek Worlock on 26 July 1987 at St Anthony’s Church, Scotland Road, Liverpool.

Following ordination, he had two appointments as a curate: St Joseph’s, Penketh in 1987 and St Aidan’s, Huyton from April 1991. In January 1993, he became priest-in-charge at St Aidan’s before moving to his first appointment as parish priest at St Joseph’s, Kirkby in April 1996. After seven years, he was appointed parish priest of Holy Family, Halewood, and priest-in-charge of St Gregory, Netherley. Soon afterwards, the deanery was amalgamated with the neighbouring deanery. The archdiocese had begun the ‘Leaving Safe Harbours’ project. The parish of St Gregory became part of the Childwall Valley parish. Father Vin, as well as remaining the parish priest of Holy Family, was asked to take on the additional responsibility of being priestin-charge of the parishes of St Andrew

the Apostle, Hunts Cross, and St Mark’s, Halewood. These three parishes were eventually amalgamated into the new parish of St John Vianney in January 2006, with Father Vin as the first parish priest. Father Vin’s final appointment was as parish priest at Holy Rosary, Old Roan, in September 2016. It was during this period that he began to experience significantly diminished mobility as a result of an amputation in 2003 and the effects of acute kidney injury – a result of treatment for osteomyelitis. He retired from active parish ministry in October 2018, but continued to minister as a priest, supplying in various parishes as needed.

Throughout his life, Father Vin had a great love for Lourdes. His first visit, as a brancardier, was in 1977. He made a pilgrimage every year after with the Archdiocesan Lourdes Association in roles as a member of the hospitality, as a chaplain to the assisted pilgrims, as a trustee and as a member of the executive committee. He also led various parish groups during those years. He always encouraged the people he met to try and make a pilgrimage to Lourdes. In later years he travelled as an assisted pilgrim himself, accompanied by his friend, Ian. His body was received into St Mark’s Church, Halewood, on Monday 17 April when a Vigil Mass was celebrated. His Funeral Mass was celebrated on Tuesday 18 April at Our Lady, Queen of Martyrs, Croxteth, followed by burial in Ford Cemetery.

Auxiliary Bishop of Liverpool, Bishop Tom Neylon, is to become a trustee of the Catholic overseas aid agency Cafod.

Bishop Tom, who is also the lead Bishop for Asia in the Bishops’ Conference Department for International Affairs, says of his appointment, ‘I’ve long admired the work of Cafod, not just the work overseas but also the role that it plays in inspiring Catholic communities up and down the country to stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters around the world. I look forward to working closely with their Director, Christine Allen, and all of Cafod to continue this vital work.’

The search for the next generation of boy and girl choristers

by Dr Christopher McElroy Director of Music, Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral

Cathedral Record

Canon Anthony O’Brien –Cathedral Dean

There is an evening Mass here on the Eve of the Coronation, Friday 5 May, at 5.00 pm to pray for our new King Charles III. Bishop Tom Neylon will preside at this Mass with the Lord Mayor and Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside in attendance. All are welcome to this Mass to begin what will be a Bank Holiday of ceremonial and celebration.

Do you know a child who would like to be a chorister at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King here in Liverpool?

The search is now on for our next generation of Boy and Girl choristers.

There are three main elements to our chorister recruitment. Firstly our ‘Chorister Experience Sessions’: taster sessions which are designed to see if a child enjoys group singing and are an excellent way to refine the skills required to audition for the Cathedral Choir. These sessions run on 16, 23 May and 6 June.

Secondly, our ‘Be a Chorister for a Day’ event (Sunday 11 June) which gives boys and girls and their parents the opportunity to come and experience chorister life ‘from the inside.’ During the day they get to sing with the choristers, rehearse with them, try on cassocks and sing alongside the Cathedral Choir at Choral Evening Prayer.

The third element of our recruitment is the ‘Voice Trials’ which take place in late June. These are the auditions (think of X Factor, but without Simon Cowell!) where individual aspirants are put through their paces in singing songs, tests etc. At this stage we look for potential, rather than fully formed musicians. As we are fortunate to get good numbers applying each year, entry to the

choirs is competitive, but for those that are successful, the chance of a lifetime awaits.

All our choristers are educated at our two choir schools: Runnymede St Edward’s Catholic Primary School (age 7-11) and St Edward’s College (age 11-15).

If you know of a Catholic family who might be interested in this wonderful opportunity, please share this information with them. For full details of choristerships at the Metropolitan Cathedral, scan the QR code, or go to: www.liverpoolmetrocathedral.org.uk/ music/joining-the-choirs/

Following this the celebrations continue on Merseyside with the final build up to the Eurovision Song Contest Final. There are Vigil Prayer Services throughout the week in some of the main city centre churches to offer some opportunities for quiet reflection and prayer away from all the activity and crowds both for those taking part and those fans who will be here. There is an Ecumenical Songs of Praise here at our Cathedral on Wednesday Evening 10 May at 7.00 pm entitled ‘United in Peace’. This will feature music accompanied by the Salvation Army Band, a contemporary Methodist Music Group and Choral Music from our Joint Cathedral Choirs and plenty of congregational singing. It will be an evening of coming together in joyful praise to pray for an end to the war in Ukraine and for peace throughout the world.

There is a Mass on Wednesday 17 May at 7.00 pm to mark the retirement of Bishop Tom Williams as Auxiliary Bishop of the archdiocese. This is an opportunity to mark the end of Bishop Tom’s official role and responsibilities as Auxiliary with thanksgiving even though he will still function as a retired bishop within the archdiocese.

Archbishop Malcolm will be joining us for the Celebration of our anniversary Feast of Pentecost on Sunday 28 May, 56 years after the Cathedral first opened. The Annual Two Cathedrals afternoon Pentecost Service begins at Liverpool Cathedral at 3.00 pm followed by a procession to finish on the steps of our Cathedral followed by a picnic on the steps. The new Anglican Bishop of Liverpool, Rev John Perumbalath, will give a short address at the first part of the service.

what’s on

Wednesday 3 May

‘In the autumn of our years.’ A time to reflect and share on our life and faith as we get older – led by Moira Meeghan – followed by Mass. 10.30 am at the Irenaeus Centre, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 1RD.

‘Resurrection Stories.’ What do the gospels say about the resurrection stories? 7.30 pm at the Irenaeus Centre, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 1RD. Also available via zoom, details: email: jenny@irenaeus.co.uk Tel: 0151 949 1199.

Friday 5 May

Mass to commemorate the Coronation of King Charles III. 5.00 pm in the Metropolitan cathedral of Christ the King. Celebrant: Bishop Tom Neylon.

Tuesday 9 May

Day of Prayer for survivors of sexual abuse.

‘Time out on Tuesday’ at the Cenacle from 10.30 am to 4.00 pm. Suggested offering for the day - £10, bring your own lunch; tea/coffee provided. No booking required. Take a break from your daily routine and have some space to reflect and be still and be refreshed.

Details: Sister Winifred Morley, Cenacle, Tithebarn Grove, Lance Lane, Liverpool

L15 6TW. Tel: 0151 722 2271 Email: morleywinifred6@gmail.com

Hotpot Supper and Film Night.

‘Entertaining Angels – the Dorothy Day story’. 6.00 pm at the Irenaeus Centre, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 1RD. Supper followed by the film and discussion. Bookings - email: jenny@ irenaeus.co.uk Tel: 0151 949 1199.

Wednesday 10 May

‘In the autumn of our years.’ A time to reflect and share on our life and faith as we get older – led by Moira Meeghan – followed by Mass. 10.30 am at the Irenaeus Centre, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 1RD.

‘Resurrection Stories.’ What do the gospels say about the resurrection stories? 7.30 pm at the Irenaeus Centre, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 1RD. Also available via zoom, details: email: jenny@irenaeus.co.uk Tel: 0151 949 1199.

Saturday 13 May

56th anniversary of the Dedication of the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King

Sunday 14 May

Sanctity of Life Service hosted by the Hoylake Pro-Life Group. 2:30 pm in

St Catherine and Martina’s Church, 41 Birkenhead Road, Hoylake CH47 5AF. This is an ecumenical service of prayer and music to proclaim the sanctity of life.

Wednesday 17 May

Faiths and Dementia – an ecumenical conference during National Dementia Action Week. 10.00 am to 4.00 pm at St Margaret Clitherow Centre, Croxteth Drive, Liverpool, L17 1AA. Admission £15.00, free to people with dementia and family carers. Registration via Eventbrite.

‘In the autumn of our years.’ A time to reflect and share on our life and faith as we get older – led by Moira Meeghan – followed by Mass. 10.30 am at the Irenaeus Centre, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 1RD.

Care for Creation, Archdiocesan Environmental Workshop for Wigan and Leigh Deanery. 6:30 pm to 9.00 pm. All Saints Church, Golborne, WA3 3BG. To register email: linda-m@sky.com

Mass of Thanksgiving for the ministry of Bishop Tom Williams. 7.00 pm in the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King.

Celebrant: Archbishop Malcolm McMahon OP. The Mass will be followed by a drinks reception in the Cathedral Crypt.

Eurovision 2023

May 2023

Exhibition of ‘The Need for Freedom’ a sculpture by Ukrainian artist Dmytro Iv.

Friday 28 April – Sunday 14 May

Izyum to Liverpool by Ukrainian artist Katya Buchatska, who will transform Liverpool Anglican Cathedral into a train carriage, replicating the journey from Izyum to the border with Poland.

Monday 1 May - Sunday 14 May

Art Installation: ‘Soloveiko’ at Our Lady and Saint Nicholas, Pier Head

Daily Prayer Walking the City - Tuesday 9 to Saturday 13 May at 9.00 am

Meet at the Pier Head (near the Beatles Statue) - a prayer guide will allow you to explore iconic Liverpool areas to pray for peace and hand out peace postcards promoting the prayer vigils.

Various events from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm daily at Strawberry Field, 16 Beaconsfield Road, Woolton, Liverpool, L25 6EJ.

Tuesday 9 May

Peace Vigil. 11.00 am at Liverpool Anglican Cathedral, St James’ Mount, Liverpool, L1 7AZ.

Thursday at Liverpool Parish Church ‘Our Lady and St Nicholas’.

Wednesday 10 May

Peace Vigil. 12.00 noon at Strawberry Field, 16 Beaconsfield Road, Woolton, Liverpool, L25 6EJ.

An Ecumenical Act of Worship. 7.00 pm at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King with contributions from the Salvation Army Brass Band, New Song Wirral Band, and the Joint Choirs of Liverpool Cathedral and Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. This event will be live streamed.

Thursday 11 May

Peace Vigil. 12.00 noon at Liverpool Parish Church of Our Lady & St Nicholas, Old Churchyard, Chapel Street, Liverpool L2 8TZ.

Friday 12 May

Peace Vigil. 11.00 am at Liverpool Cathedral, St James’ Mount, Liverpool L1 7AZ.

‘Resurrection Stories.’ What do the gospels say about the resurrection stories? 7.30 pm at the Irenaeus Centre, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 1RD. Also available via zoom, details: email: jenny@irenaeus.co.uk Tel: 0151 949 1199.

Thursday 18 May

Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord – Holyday of Obligation.

Dementia Awareness Session. 11.00 am – 12.30 pm at the Irenaeus Centre, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 1RD. Bookings: email: jenny@irenaeus.co.uk Tel: 0151 949 1199.

North Merseyside Newman Circle Talk – ‘The Byzantine Liturgy: its Theology and Spirituality.’ Speaker: Father Mark Drew. 7.30 pm in St Helen’s Parish Centre, Crosby, L23 7TQ. Light refreshments will be available from 7.15 pm. There is no charge and ample free parking. Details: helen.flynn8@ googlemail.com

Sunday 21 May

Seventh Sunday of Easter – World Communications Day.

Wednesday 24 May

Social Action Network on Environment, fossil fuels and the archdiocese. 6.30 pm online. Details: p.guidi@rcaol.org

‘Resurrection Stories.’ What do the gospels say about the resurrection stories? 7.30 pm at the Irenaeus Centre, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 1RD. Also available via zoom, details: email: jenny@irenaeus.co.uk Tel: 0151 949 1199.

Thursday 25 May

North Merseyside Newman Circle Talk – ‘Music in the Liturgy: the Hymns of St John Henry Newman.’ Speaker: Mr John Morrison Wells. 7.30 pm in St Helen’s Parish Centre, Crosby, L23 7TQ. Light refreshments will be available from 7.15 pm. There is no charge and ample free parking. Details: helen.flynn8@googlemail.com

Saturday 27 May

‘Come apart and be still.’ Quiet Saturdays at the Cenacle from 10.30 am to 4.00 pm. Suggested offering for the day£10, bring your own lunch; tea/coffee provided. No booking required. Details: Sister Winifred Morley, Cenacle, Tithebarn Grove, Lance Lane, Liverpool L15 6TW. Tel: 0151 722 2271 Email: morleywinifred6@gmail.com

Annual May Procession with the Missionaries of Charity from Seel Street. The procession starts at 2.00 pm from St Peters Square (off Seel Street) and processes via Seel Street, Berry Street, Bold Street, Church Street, and Whitechapel to Queens Square finishing at the Shrine. Details: Jim Ross Tel: 07766 706766 email: jimmy.ross7@ gmail.com

Sunday 28 May

Pentecost Sunday

Ecumenical Celebration Two Cathedrals Walk. 3.00 pm to 5.00 pm.

Lourdes Liverpool week

8 days by air from Manchester airport

Departs 21 July

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Lourdes special offer

5 days by air from Manchester airport

Departs 25th September

4* Hotel Christ Roi

£495 per person sharing

Divine Mercy Pilgrimage

Departs 11 September

5 days Half board

Call for further details

Holy Land

8 days departing super pilgrimage

Departs 06th November

4* Hotels

£1395 per person sharing £1695 in single room

CALL NOW FOR YOUR BROCHURE

by Hugh Donleavy

ponderings Living Catholic Social Teaching though Care for Creation

First of all, Happy Easter, although it’s already been at least three weeks now since Easter Sunday.

This month marks a major transition for me, as I approach ordination as a deacon on the 26th. Before ordination there are, of course, many stages to go through, but recently I’ve been completing some of the final few immediate precursors. One of these is going on retreat - I was lucky enough to be able to get away just after Easter for a private retreat. It was great to have a break after a very busy period, and to be free to just pray. Although I found silent retreats very daunting at first, throughout my time in seminary I’ve grown to appreciate them more and more.

Then, later on this month I will be making my profession of faith and oath of fidelity. This involves reciting the creed and professing my belief in everything that the Church teaches, followed by a promise to remain in communion with the Church, both in what I say and in the way I act. It’s an important oath, which has to be taken prior to making the lifelong commitment which comes with ordination.

Another recent event, which was not directly part of preparation for my diaconal ordination, but was significant, was the Chrism Mass. At the Mass, I was given the honour of carrying up the Chrism for the Archbishop to consecrate. This Chrism is, God willing, the oil with which my hands will be consecrated at my priestly ordination, so it was particularly meaningful.

It might have something to do with the busyness of all the preparations, but my time here in the Parish of St Charles and St Thomas More has gone very quickly so far. It seems like ages ago since I first started my placements in the hospital and at Hope University. At the time I was particularly nervous of the different situations that I might come across in the hospital, but I’ve found it to be very enjoyable, if quite challenging sometimes. My experiences in the hospital chaplaincy have been one of the things that make me look forward to being a priest.

Please pray for me as I approach diaconal ordination this month.

Pablo Guidi, Catholic Social Action Coordinator

‘This area in front of you is going to be transformed.’ As I stand in front of a piece of crumbling tarmac at St Edmund of Canterbury, Waterloo, Anthony passionately tells me about turning this wasteland into a haven for wildlife.

Anthony and his wife Rachel are volunteer leaders, who have been trained by the archdiocese Care for Creation programme. Both were part of the first group of 15 leaders, trained by the Pastoral Development Team, who will run workshops at a parish level. This workshop aims to re-connect us with the awe of nature, whilst grounding us in our Catholic faith which inspires us to take action on climate crisis.

Pope Francis picks up this theme in his Encyclical, ‘Laudato Si’. The title is in Italian and translate as ‘praise be to you’. These words are part of a quotation from St Francis of Assisi’s ‘Canticle of the Creatures’ which opens the encyclical in which the Saint praises God by meditating on the goodness of sun, wind, earth, water, and other natural forces. In this document, the Pope writes ‘human life is grounded in three fundamental and closely intertwined relationships: with God, with our neighbour and

with the earth itself. According to the Bible, these three vital relationships have been broken, both outwardly and within us. This rupture is sin.’

Pope Francis asks us to transform the way we have viewed our relationship with the earth. Commentators suggest this represents a move from a stewardship, or dominion over the earth, to kinship model of being an equal and integrally linked to the living world. This principle of kinship with the earth has been embedded into the Care for Creation workshops.

‘Get involved.’ That is Anthony’s key message, whether its ‘recycling, a gardening project, or doing an energy audit’. Meeting Anthony, Rachel and the Care for Creation team at St Edmund’s church in the parish of St Oscar Romero was inspiring and demonstrated what a transformation the Care for Creation workshops can have. If you would like to find out more about the environmental plans for the archdiocese, please attend the Social Action Network event on May 24th. In this online session will discuss everything from the Care for Creation workshops to investment in fossil fuels. Contact Pablo for further details p.guidi@rcaol.org.uk

Rachel and Pablo with the Care for Creation team at St Edmund of Canterbury

‘It’s the personal journey of leaving a school as a boy, having massively performed below expectations, and then coming back as the headteacher.’

With these words David Hayes offers the Pic a concise summary of what it means to him to be headteacher at Saint Francis Xavier’s College in Woolton.

When David, who turned 50 this year, left SFX aged 16 in 1989, he did not even bother turning up to collect his GCSE results. The fact that 32 years later, in April 2021, he headed back through the SFX gates as headteacher provides a striking story arc.

It is a story which highlights the importance of resilience and determination, and a story which began with a huge trauma. David was in his fourth year at SFX when he suffered the sudden loss of his father. Liam Hayes, a teacher in Walton prison, passed away after suffering a brain haemorrhage while at work. It left David reeling. ‘Nowadays there would be a whole raft of counselling support but then it didn’t happen,’ he remembers. ‘I fell increasingly behind and lacked confidence. That built up and ultimately I left having underachieved.’

He spent the next three years working in the kitchen at the Mere Golf and Country Club in Knutsford – the consequence of a City and Guilds course in professional cookery – and then moved on to the Grosvenor Hotel in Chester until one May day in 1993, not long after his 20th birthday.

‘I was chopping parsley and doing a lot of thinking. I’d always wanted to go into education and so I put my knife down and went into the head chef and said, “I’m really sorry to let you down but I want to go back to college”.

‘I got myself on a course at Liverpool Community College for access to higher education. It meant doing the GCSEs and A Levels that I required in one year. I passed with distinction.’

He then qualified as a PE teacher at IM Marsh College in south Liverpool, profiting from life lessons gained from ‘working 18hour days, six days a week – hard work in team environments with high expectations. It shaped my whole future. It was a great preparation for teaching and has served me well in headship.’ And does his experience offer a lesson about second

chances for pupils today? He admits it has influenced his ‘pastorally driven approach’, adding: ‘It’s better to get your path determined as best you can and as early as you can, but that said, if it doesn’t work out first time round, it’s not the end of the world. It’s about what you want to do and your inner belief.’ That and ‘other people showing you belief’ and he has not forgotten the support of teachers at Brookfield High School in Kirkby – notably then head Pam Jervis and deputy Linda Thurlow, both of whom passed away recently. They were ‘great mentors and guides and an inspiration. They developed me at a young professional age.’

After a year at an international school in Hong Kong, he worked as a school sport partnership manager for Knowsley, then stepped into a manager’s role with the Youth Sport Trust nationally. Next, supported by the Future Leaders programme, he became deputy principal at the Oasis Academy Media City before moving on to the Oasis Academy in Oldham, first as deputy then principal.

He returned to Liverpool in 2016 as principal at De La Salle Academy. ‘It was a really challenging context,’ he recalls. ‘Bar when I worked at Brookfield, I’d never worked more in an environment where you could see so clearly the dedication and vocational aspect of our role by everyone working there. We were operating on the slimmest resources but made up for that with heart, determination and enthusiasm.’

Then, in 2021, came the opportunity for this father-of-three to complete that story arc at SFX. He found his alma mater ‘a school in transition’ after a series of leadership changes following the retirement of long-serving former head Mr Ripon. ‘It was an unsettled place but I was met with warmth and enthusiasm and when staff were talking to me about the history and context of the school I could talk with authenticity as I was part of that too as a pupil.’

And two years on, his own enthusiasm is undimmed. ‘This isn’t just a headship for me. I am from the area and my family still live in the area. This is a personal matter for me.’ A story, in short, that’s not over yet.

David Hayes by Simon Hart

of Norwich

The exam season is fast approaching and for many it can be a time of stress, anxiety and fear for students, staff, families, and friends.

We live in a society which seems to be built on the idea of success coming from academic achievements, wealth, celebrity and winning. Our young people are constantly bombarded with these images and messages every minute of the day. Our staff in schools will tell you that many young people are becoming increasingly afraid of failure and of things going wrong. Schools are teaching children to be more resilient and to understand that it is normal for things to go wrong in your life.

Exam season has the potential to be challenging for our young people. It is important that all of us help and support our young people during this exam season. What can we do to help them?

1. Look out for signs.

Keep an eye on them and look out for the signs of stress. Be aware of your own stress triggers too.

2. Support

Avoid placing unnecessary expectations and be always supportive. Make sure they, have a support system in place, in the form of family and friends, so that their needs are well taken care of.

3. Relax

Relaxing during the exam period should not be seen as a taboo. Encourage them to take a break from their studies and go outside for a walk or some form of exercise.

4. Pray

Please pray for them and encourage them to do so. When all is done, it is important that we put our trust in God. By offering ourselves in prayer, we surrender our anxieties and fears, reminding ourselves that God’s ways are above our ways.

We are all familiar with the phrase ‘It takes a village to raise a child’ so I ask that you keep our young people in your prayers this exam season. For their teachers and all who support them I pray the words of Julian of Norwich ‘all shall be well, and all shall be well and all manner of thing shall be well’.

Good luck to everyone.

Joan McCarthy Director of Education Archdiocese of Liverpool

St Anne’s celebrates its new improvements

St Anne’s Catholic Primary School and Nursery in Ormskirk recently opened its doors to the whole school community to celebrate the completion of several major building programmes which have substantially improved the school.

Since 2017, a programme of both internal and external improvements to the school environment has ensured St Anne’s continues to provide excellent Catholic education for the children and families the school serves.

The whole school family are exceptionally proud of the school. The completion of the wonderful ‘New Entrance’ to the main school building provides a warm and safe welcome for visitors, staff and families.

During the recent ‘Open Afternoon’, over two hundred parents and grandparents visited St Anne’s. Tours were provided by the ‘Young School Leaders’ and all children, teachers and families had a wonderful afternoon. Children and teachers love learning in the purpose built ‘Studio’ building where art lessons, music lessons and design technology lessons take place.

Mr Chris Williams, deputy director of education for Liverpool Archdiocese, visited St Anne’s on Tuesday 18th April and congratulated the whole school family on the continual improvements to the school environment. Headteacher Mr Phil Bates, explained to Mr Williams the incredible support St Anne’s Governing Body continue to provide.

The ‘Governors’ Working Day’ takes place in June with governors beginning the day by celebrating mass. Following mass there will be a workshops focussing on school improvement before a relaxed dinnertime spent discussing school life with the children.

The afternoon will focus on curriculum developments with subject leaders. Governors continually provide effective and wise guidance to all school leaders on all aspects of school life.

Visits to the school for prospective families are always welcome with appointments made through the main school office.

‘All shall be well, and all shall be well and all manner of thing shall be well’.

Julian

Liverpool’s new Bishop makes special visit to Garston secondary school

The Academy of St Nicholas in Garston welcomed the new Bishop of Liverpool, Right Reverend Doctor John Perumbalath, ahead of his official installation on 22 April.

Bishop John will be the ninth Bishop of Liverpool and joins the city from the Diocese of Chelmsford.

Before being installed, the Diocese of Liverpool hosted a mini tour around the region and chose The Academy of St Nicholas as the first secondary school to visit. Bishop John was welcomed by staff and students and the visit began with a speech from head of school, Mr Gary Lloyd, and chaplain, Sarah-Joy Gillard.

In the academy’s chapel, the honoured guest was treated to a musical performance, and was then presented with a framed piece of artwork that was hand painted by a student in Year 11. Later a Q&A session was held between the bishop and students from Years 7 to 11 as well as All Saints Sixth Form students. Students and staff were later able to talk to Bishop John about the school community. Bishop John Perumbalath said: “It was an absolute pleasure to meet students and staff at The Academy of St Nicholas. I received a really warm welcome and enjoyed hearing the students’ stories of what they have been doing and their achievements.”

Mr Gary Lloyd, head of school, said: “It was an honour to welcome Bishop John into The Academy of St Nicholas and we feel very privileged to be the first secondary school he has visited in the city.”

The Academy of St Nicholas is a unique joint Catholic and Church of England secondary school. It is proud to be part of All Saints Multi Academy Trust which is inspired by the ecumenical vision of Bishop David Sheppard and Archbishop Derek Worlock that ‘we are stronger and better together’.

Our Lady of Pity pupils put their best foot forward for charity

Pupils at Our Lady of Pity RC Primary School in Greasby, Wirral, participated in CAFOD’s Big Lent Walk Challenge to raise money for those living in extreme poverty.

This year, CAFOD (Catholic Agency for Overseas Development) is seeking to support families around the world who require the necessary tools to tackle the climate crisis.

The whole school community came together to support CAFOD’s goal through walking and running. Children in Reception and Key Stage 1 ran laps on the school grounds while Key Stage 2 pupils completed a road run together in the local area.

Parents showed their support by running alongside pupils and acting as road marshals. Everyone cheered each other on to motivate and show their excitement.

During the Lenten season, the school looked at how they could help others through small acts of kindness. Taking part in The Big Lent Walk was an additional way for the school to show kindness on a larger scale whilst also achieving its mission of ‘JOY through Respect’.

Head of school, Kathryn Dunne, said: “We’re so proud of all our children for taking part. It was joyous to see everyone come together and work hard with such determination to help an amazing cause during Lent. So many members of our school community have been eager to show their support through generous donations.

“As a school, we strongly believe in equal opportunity for all, irrespective of anything, so participating in The Big Lent Walk was important for us and we look forward to other upcoming fundraising opportunities.”

Our Lady of Pity RC Primary School is proud to be part of Holy Family Multi Academy Trust which aims to build strong communities with Gospel Values at the heart.

Judi Bowden, head of housekeeping at St John Bosco Arts College

Keeping a school clean and tidy is an enormous task which requires a dedicated team working non-stop from early morning to early evening.

St John Bosco Arts College’s meticulous housekeeping team ensures every corridor, classroom and communal area is spotless, which creates a positive learning environment for all. Ensuring these high standards are consistently met is head of housekeeping, Judi Bowden. Incredibly, Judi has been at the school for over 31 years and is just as passionate about her job as when she first started – if not more!

“I began as a cleaner and I soon became a deputy supervisor and then supervisor,” Judi says. “Our cleaning routine was a lot different in the old school compared to the new environment we’re working in.”

St John Bosco Arts College opened the doors to its £18m stateof-the-art building in 2014. A key part of Judi’s role is making sure her team of over 15 staff feel safe and valued. She adds: “I always like to think I’m approachable and that they can come to me about anything. This enables us to work in a happy and healthy environment. At the end of our working day, we always wait for everyone to finish their area as we don’t like to leave anyone behind – we’re like the army. We’ll muck in wherever is needed.”

Judi explains: “I am very lucky; the team is absolutely brilliant, and they work tirelessly to ensure the school is always presentable. There is nothing better than receiving compliments from visitors about how clean the school looks. People often say it looks like no one works here but it is supposed to look like that, if it doesn’t then we’re not doing our job properly.”

Over the years, Judi has seen thousands of children develop into kind and ambitious students and it is no surprise that this is one of the favourite things about her job. “I love watching them grow into wonderful young adults,” Judi says. “They thrive around the staff here at St John Bosco and you see a real positive change from when they start in Year 7 to when they leave. There is a real respect for us and I think that cleaners are often seen as invisible in other schools, but not here, we’re treated like we’re a key part of school life. The humour from the children is something which particularly makes my day!”

The Salesian ethos permeates through St John Bosco Arts College and this is felt by Judi and her team. She comments: “Whilst I’m not of the Catholic faith, I very much feel a part of the Salesian family and I have always felt that belonging ever since I started working here. I love that feeling of being embraced.”

Judi will be turning 65 years old this year. She quickly adds: “I won’t be retiring any time soon if that is your next question!”

That will be music to everyone’s ears at St John Bosco Arts College.

Liverpool school trials advanced robotics technology to improve student learning

St John Bosco Arts College, Croxteth, has become the first UK school to trial advanced robotics technology. At just under 1.3 meters tall, intelligent delivery robot BellaBot has previously been employed by the hospitality industry. The school partnered with leading technology company GW Robotics to introduce robots that offer many potential applications within schools.

The robot can assist in getting equipment around, work in the library and recommend books to students, and serve as a guide to visitors around the school. BellaBot’s unique AI voice can also create positive emotional connections with staff and students.

Darren Gidman, headteacher at St John Bosco Arts College, said: “We believe this initiative will revolutionise the learning experience at our school, as it will help us inculcate our values of love, faith, community, respect, and hope in their hearts and minds.”

The robot technology will also provide an exciting opportunity for students to develop valuable skills and expertise that will prepare them for the rapidly evolving job market.

Joan McCarthy, director of education, Archdiocese of Liverpool, was keen to see how the robot would encourage more girls into the workforce. She said: “There is a serious message here; this is the future of technology, and girls, in particular, are that future.

“Only 26% of young girls are involved in this type of workforce at the moment, so it’s really important to us that the girls get the opportunity to experience this technology first-hand, learn more about how it works, and maybe consider moving into this as a career.”

Stephen Johnson, business manager at St John Bosco Arts College, said that GW Robotics has been so impressed with Bella’s successful development that they have agreed to extend the trial.

SFX students called up for national teams

Two Year 10 students at St Francis Xavier’s College (SFX) in Woolton were selected to represent their home countries in two major football tournaments in April.

Gabriano Shelton was picked to play for South Africa in the U17 Africa Cup of Nations. Gabriano, who lives in Norris Green, is already a promising talent in Liverpool FC’s Academy, where he plays right back and centre midfield for the U15s.

Gabriano, 15, said: “I am so proud to have been picked to represent South Africa. The tournament is a huge event in the football calendar and I would like to thank God for this amazing opportunity.”

Further success includes fellow student, DJ Esdaille, from Sefton Park, who was selected for England’s U16 squad in the UEFA Development Tournament. DJ, also 15, captains Liverpool FC’s Academy U15 team and plays alongside Gabriano. He also plays for the U16 team.

Speaking about the news, DJ said: “I didn’t expect it at all! I was watching a video of my team playing at LFC and my coach kept me behind and told me that I have been called up for England. “My coach said it is well deserved and I am really happy! I want to make my family, friends and teachers proud.”

SFX has a rich sporting history with many of its teams and talented students achieving incredible success in sports such as, athletics, tennis and boxing.

David Hayes, headteacher of SFX, said: “Alongside our historic reputation for academic success, we have an equal reputation for sporting strength. We are all very proud of Gabriano and DJ. We know they will live out the Xaverian standard of playing fair; and hopefully they will live out another Xaverian standard to be a winner, let’s hope they make it all the way!”

St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust Learners Head on a Cultural Quest

St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust is launching a new programme aimed at promoting personal development and cultural capital among students. Called “The Cultural Quest,” this initiative is set to provide a unique and exciting learning experience for all learners.

The Cultural Quest is an innovative and interactive programme that combines classroom learning with experiential activities to enhance students’ cultural understanding and personal development. The programme has been designed to enable students to explore the diverse cultural landscape of the world and develop a broad range of skills that are essential for success in life.

The programme is available to all students in St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust and will consist of a range of experiences covering various aspects of cultural capital.

One of the unique features of The Cultural Quest is its emphasis on experiential learning. The programme will take students out of the classroom and into the real world, where they can experience cultural events and activities first-hand. This approach will allow students to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world around them and foster their personal growth.

The programme is set to launch soon, and students across the St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust are eagerly looking forward to taking part. The Cultural Quest promises to be an exciting and enriching experience that will equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in an increasingly diverse and complex world.

The trust is looking forward to seeing the impact of this programme on the students and the wider community.

Faith Primary Academy hosts special service for Fr Denis Blackledge

Staff and pupils at Faith Primary Academy held a special retirement service for its parish priest, Father Denis Blackledge SJ.

The assembly took place at the school, located on Prince Edwin Street, and saw Fr Denis honoured for his dedication over the past seven years.

Pupils sang ‘Our God is a great big God’ and presented Fr Denis with gifts. Headteacher, Miss Sarah Williams, and RE lead, Mrs Ashleigh Martin, gave heartfelt speeches and talked about how much Fr Denis means to the school and how he has been a key pillar in the Everton community.

Father Denis Blackledge SJ said: “One of the greatest blessings of being parish priest here at St Francis Xavier’s Church is the vital link with Faith Primary Academy. Relations with the head and staff are excellent, and a credit to all concerned. There is plenty of opportunity for lively ecumenical, and growing interfaith, worship and practical co-operation.

“Our pastoral associate, Debbie Reynolds, has developed a rich vein of friendship with children and families through her presence and work at Faith week by week.”

Miss Sarah Williams, headteacher of Faith Primary Academy, added: “The service was the perfect opportunity to give thanks to Fr Denis and show him how well loved he is by the school community.

“Fr Denis has touched the lives of many here at Faith and although we’re very sad to see him retire, we wish him nothing but the best for the future.”

The parish has been served by Jesuit brothers and priests for 175 years. Last year, it was confirmed that the Jesuits will leave the parish after Easter. They will leave a lasting legacy in Everton and are confident in the knowledge that the community has strong roots and a commitment to the Gospel.

Maricourt’s memories in Manhattan

Students from Maricourt Catholic High School in Maghull made happy memories recently with a sixth form trip to New York in the USA.

Students were waved off by their parents as they boarded the bus to Manchester Airport, and all too soon were jetted off across the Atlantic to JFK International Airport in Queens, New York. After going through security, students were taken by coach to the hotel.

After getting the subway from Grand Central Station to Ellis Island Ferry, students were taken on a trip across the Hudson River where they saw the famous Statue of Liberty. The Immigration Museum followed before the group visited the 9/11 Museum.

Teachers that accompanied the group answered questions and tried to ensure students understand the continued effects of that day.

From visits to Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building, Central Park, and within the park, the John Lennon Memorial, the days were filled with learning and fun. As the group walked along 5th Avenue, they stopped at St Patrick’s Cathedral where candles were lit and prayers were offered for the Maricourt community.

The group also had a pleasant surprise when they bumped into Matthew MacFayden and Nicholas Braun from the hit show ‘Succession’. Obligatory selfies were taken.

Highlights included: being able to celebrate Emily’s 18th, lunch at Best Bagel Coffee Shop, Lynn the tour guide, new nicknames, trying not to jaywalk, staff learning new photography skills, bananas with waffles, and lots of others that will come to the minds of those that went on the trip.

With some of the Maricourt students having known each since reception, it was a great way to finish the chapter of lifelong friendship. Other students spoke to others they wouldn’t have, if not for the trip.

Growing Faith Hub launched at Alsop High School

Bishop Tom Williams attended the launch of Alsop High School’s launch a Growing Faith Learning hub, alongside other faith leaders, community members, students and the Lord Mayor of Liverpool.

The launch included music performed by students from Alsop High School and Arnot St Mary Church of England Primary School. Young people, who will be at the heart of the learning hub, spoke about how they want to generate neighbourhood pride and build “beacons of hope” in which all can flourish and build the interests of all - the common good.

Kirkdale St Lawrence Primary School read readings and prayers from major world religions. Bishop Tom Williams reminded young people of their potential to be the change the want to see. Canon Ellen Loudon, director of social justice at Liverpool Cathedral, spoke about how the hub will enable young people to gain an understanding of religion.

The Growing Faith Hub will foster opportunities to celebrate faith through stories of hope and social action within schools throughout north Liverpool.

The launch included a film recorded in Walton Church for the Day of Remembrance for the those who have died from Covid-19. During the film, young people lit candles and spoke about how we rebuild and reconnect after the recent pandemic.

Alsop High School pledged to work with Arnot St Mary and Kirkdale St Lawrence Primary Schools, Walton Team Ministry, Liverpool Diocese and the leaders of faith communities for the common good and encourage collaboration between people of different faiths and cultures.

The hub intends to foster communities where the voice of children and young people is instinctively at the centre of thinking and practice and where children and young people are enabled to be leaders and ‘agents of change’.

Education Matters by Satis Education

Supporting Our Young People During Exam Season

Spring has finally sprung (well with the exception of the odd cold day or three!) and with it comes the arrival of the exam season in schools and colleges. Exams have always resulted in a degree of stress for young people. However, sadly this has been further compounded by the Covid pandemic.

For example, young people sitting their A Levels this year, preparing for university or employment, did not sit formal GCSE exams. They haven’t necessarily experienced entering an exam room and readying themselves for the task ahead. Whilst most schools and colleges will have tried as best they can, through mock exams, to prepare their students a mock exam is never quite as daunting as the real thing.

Unfortunately, research tells us that as many as two-thirds of young people experience levels of exam stress. Findings shows high levels of exam stress can interfere with attention and reduce working memory, leading to lower performance. Early experiences of anxiety and stress can also set a precedent for mental-health problems in adulthood. Thankfully help is available. The mental health charity MIND have produced some very useful advice and support for coping with exam stress, details are on their website: www. mind.org.uk

The website helps to identify the symptoms and causes of exam stress. It also provides tips on managing stress and signposts young people to support services, including within school or college and beyond.

This is an excellent resource to share with children and young people. However, it’s also helpful for parents or carers. It allows them to gain a greater understanding about how they can provide practical and emotional support, during what can be one of the most stressful time for their children.

On behalf of everyone in the Archdiocese, I wish all our young people the best of luck with their exams. However, I also urge them to remember that looking after their health and wellbeing is an integral part of exam preparation.

If you are keen to find out about wellbeing services or exam invigilation services available to schools and colleges please contact support@satiseducation.co.uk

Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust welcomes new school

A Halton primary school has officially joined Wirral-based Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust (HFCMAT).

St Augustine’s Catholic Primary School and Nursery, based in Conwy Court, Runcorn, is the fourth primary school to become part of the trust.

The school joins Our Lady of Pity RC Primary School in Greasby, St Bernard’s RC Primary School in Ellesmere Port, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Oxton, alongside two secondary schools, St John Plessington Catholic College in Bebington and St Mary’s Catholic College in Wallasey.

HFCMAT’s vision of ‘formation, inspiration and transformation’ sets its course to improve opportunities for its young people and staff alike through Catholic faith and values.

Interim headteacher of St Augustine’s, John Marciniak, said: “The staff and pupils are delighted to join HFCMAT at such an exciting time.

“We firmly believe that joining the trust at this point begins the important next chapter in the development of the school in order to deliver a wonderful, enriching curriculum offering for our pupils that has its values lying deep in the Catholic faith.”

John added: “Through collaboration and creative thinking, we believe that our part within the trust will enable us to further our aspirational outcomes for all of our pupils.”

CEO of HFCMAT, Andy Moor, commented: “We are thrilled to welcome St Augustine’s to our growing family of schools. As a trust, we are passionate about what we do, and we are proud to work with partners from across the system to bring the best practice into our schools.

“It is an exciting time for HFCMAT as we continue to expand and look to welcome more schools over the year.”

In 2022, the Government set out plans for all UK schools to be part of, or in the process of joining, a multi academy trust by 2030.

St Mary’s Catholic College take a unique approach on its latest inset day

St Mary’s Catholic College, Wallasey, has put an original spin on its latest inset day. The staff decided to flip what is typically used as a ‘teaching training day’ and allow students the chance to experience an inset day like never before.

Inset days are widely used across schools and colleges and enable staff to undergo training, however, at St Mary’s Catholic College, they decided to invite students to take part in a ‘pupil inset day’, led by teachers, support staff, and a variety of external guest speakers and experts.

Across the day, students explored different topics and received training on the latest research-led strategies for reading, creativity in the classroom, wellbeing, careers, and revision approaches. They were then able to put their new knowledge into practical use and support their learning in the classroom. There was even an opportunity for students to understand more about the college’s mission, vision, and values and how they align with all aspects of school life.

Miss Alison Keen, head of performing arts at St Mary’s Catholic College, organised the event. She said: “The vision at St Mary’s is ‘work together, succeed together’ and by running a training day for pupils we hope to give students the same understanding as teachers of key areas and succeed in these areas as a team.”

Students were thrilled they had the opportunity to be treated like teachers for a day. One student from Year 8 shared their thoughts on the day: “It was good to understand why we are learning certain things, and now we can help ourselves and other people in the class as teachers do,” they said.

Mr Kevin Maddocks, the headteacher at St Mary’s Catholic College, said: “We value our students at St Mary’s, and truly believe by working with them and providing them with rich

development opportunities, that we can be successful together. The day was another excellent example of the determination of students and staff to create an inspiring learning environment.”

Why my calling still makes sense today

Father Simon Gore from Animate Youth Ministries gets the odd blunt question about his vocation but, as he explains, his response never wavers.

Over the Easter break I was fortunate enough to go to the 25th anniversary of Ordination of Father John Hindley.

As an aside, while at the ‘do’ after Mass, a gentleman approached me and said he enjoyed reading the Animate Pic columns (well, there has to be one!). I said there was a good chance the Mass we had just attended would feature next month and so it has! Hello to you if you are that gentlemen!

Anyway, back to the point. Fr John spoke in his homily about the parishes he had worked in and although I know Fr John and so knew of his previous appointments, it was interesting to hear them all condensed into one homily. On the way home it made me think not just about Fr John’s story but my own as well. And then, as these things tend to do, a more vague wandering of the mind into my general life choices and vocation began.

In Holy Week, Animate helped Leyland St Mary’s with their whole school mission. As part of the mission we had two ‘Grill the Priest’ sessions. These sessions are classic Lourdes Youth pilgrimage activities when the coach can ‘grill’ their chaplain with all kinds of weird, wonderful and thought-provoking questions.

When I was a coach chaplain I used to enjoy these sessions: they made me think on my feet as we moved from where I buy my shoes to how the Body of Christ can taste like bread (try answering that one on limited sleep in a way the whole coach can understand!).

But no matter the group, I’ve always been asked something along the lines of ‘Do you miss not being a normal person?’ (Rude: I think I’m fairly normal … but I can see their point!); or ‘If you could go back in time would you still be a priest?’. (A less rude version of essentially the same question!)

No matter how it is worded, I always feel there is an implied meaning to the question that the person asking cannot get their head around why anyone would want to be a priest. I suppose it is a legitimate question. When I have been asked such a question, either in Lourdes or on a retreat programme at Lowe House, I have always said that I am happy and no, I would not go back and do things differently.

As my mind wandered on that car journey, though, I thought a little more about the broader sense of vocation – of the general sense of having faith in the modern world. Fr John noted how many blessings he had received in his ministry. A sentiment I would echo. When ‘grilled’ by young people I can give my own examples as reasons why, if I had my own DeLorean, I would not go back in time to do something else.

Of course, I know that any Pic reader could highlight their own blessings they have received through their life, people they have met, events they have been to, celebrations they have enjoyed.

Yet as I arrived back home it seemed clear to me that my life would be less full, less complete, less fulfilled, without that slightly mysterious element we call Faith.

For me and for Fr John, the sense of Faith ended up being manifested in a call to Ordained Priesthood. Of course, the sense of call – or vocation – is manifested in different ways. I think what unites all those calls has got to be the sense of happiness and fulfilment that Faith can offer. We meet people we might never have met, we go to places we might never have visited, we think things we might never have thought, found comfort when others might see only darkness.

Let me then broaden the question I get asked to include us all: Do you not want a more normal life? Why are you a Christian in the modern world?

Well, who wants to be boring and ordinary?! I’ll go with fulfilled and extraordinary! Thanks – and next question...

Mums the Word

May is the month of Mary and we have so much to celebrate. It always reminds me of May processions, crowning Our Lady, flowers in full bloom, children making their First Holy Communions and singing all the lovely Marian hymns.

This May we will celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and we offer our prayers and best wishes to him and all the Royal family. I am sure there will be plenty of parties held by our UCM members and I look forward to seeing their stories and photographs.

Also this month, UCM representatives will be in Rome with the Holy Father advising him of our important role within the Church. I pray for their visit and hope it will be enjoyable and productive.

We have had some major changes at diocesan level recently. Our annual general meeting was held at the Metropolitan Cathedral on Friday 28 April and our president, Mrs Maureen Finnegan, completed her term of office. Maureen has served as president for four years – her term including one extra year because of Covid. She has been a very inspiring and committed president and we are grateful for her leadership and support. She will now serve a term as deputy president.

Our new president is Mrs Kathy Buck and we wish both her and Maureen every success for the future.

Finally, because of so much conflict in our world today I thought it would be good to remind ourselves of our prayer for peace:

A century of service News from the Liverpool Province of the Knights of St Columba

Liverpool to host Knights’ Biennial Memorial Mass

Here in Liverpool, we are looking forward to welcoming all brothers and their families to our Biennial Memorial Mass, which is taking place on Saturday 10 June at the Metropolitan Cathedral.

It promises to be a wonderful and spiritual occasion on which members of the Knights of Saint Columba from far and wide will come together to remember and pray for the souls of those who have gone before us.

All too quickly on such occasions, once the Mass is over we go our separate ways until the next time. This time, therefore, we have put together a small programme of events over the Memorial weekend. We sincerely hope that as many brothers and their families as possible are able to join us, starting on Friday 9 June – the feast of St Columba – with our Province 2 annual gala dinner held in the presence of supreme knight Harry Welsh, Archbishop Malcolm McMahon, our national spiritual advisor Bishop Tom Neylon and Tom Williams, the Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus. This will take place at the Liner Hotel on Lord Nelson Street which was the venue for the KSC’s supreme conference in October 2021.

This will be followed the next day by the main event of the weekend, the Biennial Memorial Mass for deceased brothers at the Cathedral at 3pm when the chief celebrant will be Archbishop Malcolm. Light refreshments will be served at the end of Mass in the Gibberd Room. Later, on Saturday, at 7.30pm there will be an informal dinner, again held at the Liner Hotel.

It is very pleasing to have our province again hosting a major national event and, in particular, the Biennial Mass. It a great honour for the order that since its opening, the Cathedral has always provided the venue for KSC Memorial Masses.

Websites: www.ksc.org.uk www.kscprov02.weebly.com

Email: dpokeane@aol.com

‘Holy Mother Queen of Peace, hear our prayer that war will cease, Touch the hearts of violent men, teach them how to love again.

Through the grace of Christ thy son teach the world to live as one.’

Maria Pimblett media officer

An Eggs-tra Special Easter at Nugent

Normandie Wragg Chief Executive Nugent

Jo Henney Interim Chief Executive Nugent

Every child deserves a future

This month sees us acknowledge National Children’s Day in the UK on Sunday 14 May. National Children’s Day UK (NCDUK) is all about the importance of a healthy childhood, and how we need to protect the rights and freedoms of children and young people. It’s a day of celebration, but it’s also a great opportunity for anyone involved with children to raise awareness about projects they are running or things they care about.

In the lead up to Easter, due to the kindness and generosity of our supporters and friends, Nugent’s Easter Bunny was able to deliver more than 500 Easter eggs and chocolate goodies to the children, young people and adults that we care for.

Fundraising manager Ainsley Briscoe said, ‘We wanted to give those we care for the ‘hoppiest’ of Easters this year. It was such a heart-warming day, visiting our different services, and meeting everyone with the Easter bunny who kindly delivered the treats.’

Our Easter Bunny, volunteer Mark Callister, hopped into a number of our services across Merseyside to make an egg-stra special delivery. The chocolatey treats were delivered to a number of our children’s and adult’s homes, Nugent House School and our secure home for children and young people who are vulnerable, traumatised and disadvantaged. Ainsley added: ‘One young person said, “these can’t all be for me… really are they all for me? Thank you”.’

A big thank you to Mark who kindly volunteered his time alongside our Nugent volunteer. Mark works as a support worker at Emmaus Merseyside, another incredible charity where our Nugent CEO, Joanne Henney is Chair of Trustees.

Thank you to our corporate supporters including Barclays, Swansway Motor Group and PAM Healthcare, to a number of schools across Merseyside, including Christ the King School, the Union of Catholic Mothers, and to our generous individual supporters who have donated to our appeal.

Good Shepherd Appeal

Throughout Lent, Nugent has been inundated with fundraising efforts from schools across the Archdiocese of Liverpool, all raising money for Nugent’s Good Shepherd Appeal. From sponsored walks and cake sales to market days and even welly throwing competitions, it has been fantastic to hear how schools are taking part in our appeal.

The Good Shepherd Appeal is one of the oldest charity appeals in the UK and has supported thousands of families across Merseyside for more than 113 years. The schools taking part come together at our Good Shepherd Masses in June to present their fundraising cheques to Nugent as well as take part in the Mass through singing, reading and helping with communion.

Masses:

10:30am on Wednesday 14 June at St Mary’s Church, Leyland. Celebrant: Bishop Tom Williams.

11am on Wednesday 28 June at the Metropolitan Cathedral. Celebrant: Archbishop Malcolm McMahon OP.

If you would like to donate to our Good Shepherd Appeal please visit localgiving.org/charity/wearenugent

To find out more about Nugent’s upcoming fundraising events and how to get involved, please visit: wearenugent.org.uk

We are strong believers and advocates of the importance of every child deserving a future and the services we offer our children and young people are of the upmost importance to us. At Nugent, we have a range of children’s services including Nugent House School and four children’s homes, one being the only secure children’s home in the country that is charity owned and operated. In the past year, we have given the gardens at Marydale a much-needed makeover and due to our young people being in the highest level of protection, this is the only place they can access fresh air. We wanted to transform Marydale’s garden spaces to promote mental health and wellbeing by adding colour, artist’s designs, activities, and adding sensory stimulation such as herb walls. All of the funds raised at last year’s annual Phil Thompson Golf Classic went towards the garden makeover and it has created a new space for young people in the home to come and enjoy fresh air in a safe, secure, and relaxing environment.

At our recent Sleep Out with Nugent event at Strawberry Field, we raised a fantastic £14,082.12, almost tripling the amount raised at last year’s event. The money raised will help prepare young people with everything they need when transitioning out of care. We have also been able to equip our care leavers with some luxury items that we may take for granted but will make a big difference in their lives.

Nugent is also in the process of launching our ‘Brighter Futures’ mentorship project, which will provide life skills, work experience and mentoring for young people.

We’re confident that with the skill, experience and unwavering compassion of our incredibly dedicated colleagues, we can provide care, education, protection and inspiration for more children and young people in need.

With the right guidance, care and support network, our leaders of the future can come from any background.

Dialogue and Unity Mission in the Economy (MitE) – reaching out in the region

Ultan Russell, Archdiocesan Ecumenical Officer

The Pantry will serve and support the people of the Metropolitan Borough of St Helens which has a long tradition of interchurch collaboration with the Churches engaged in vibrant partnerships with other voluntary sector bodies.

The Pantry is a franchise of the Your Local Pantry model and operates as an affordable food club where members pay a weekly membership fee in return for choosing a set amount of available food that typically will be worth three to four times the membership fee, and here is the best bit – anyone can join. We forget the number of people in work who, with escalating fuel and food costs and massive rises in mortgage repayments, use food banks and food pantries.

Still focusing on MitE’s work outside the city; in Warrington people remember after six years the pastoral care that MitE offered to the bereaved at the time of the Hillsborough Enquiry. MitE also has a vibrant chaplaincy ministry in the borough in the town centre and at Birchwood.

Mission in the Economy is a vibrant and well-established ecumenical organisation offering broad-based chaplaincy services in the Liverpool City Region and beyond. The archdiocese is represented on the Board of Trustees by Janet Keefe (a parish administrator at St Mary’s, Woolton) and Ray Pealing (Provincial Grand Knight of the Knights of St Columba).

There is often a tendency for ‘Liverpool’ in the title of both our Archdiocese, the Anglican Diocese, and the Methodist District for activities to focus on Liverpool –here MitE reverses the situation with strong outreach work in St Helens and Warrington.

The team of St Helens chaplains work with shoppers, traders and businesses alike, and will always try to make time for a chat and a cup of tea with people who want to take some time out of their busy day to talk. In St Mary’s Market there is a prayer stall which is available all the time for people of all faiths, and

none. It is a small and valued oasis in the desert of everyday life. There are three chaplains’ operating in St Helens, they are never too busy to stop, share a story and a brew - keep an eye out for them in town. In addition, through the lunches hosted by the Bishop of Warrington senior representatives of statutory, commercial, and voluntary organisations gather for fruitful networking opportunities.

MitE chaplains like parish clergy are fully aware of the monetary crisis that is affecting so many people and they have been a key partner in St Helens with a very imaginative project funded by the Government’s Faith New Deal programme. St Helens Mobile Community Pantry bridges the gaps between community food provisions across St Helens. A joint faith and voluntary group initiative working alongside members of the St Helens Borough Community Food Providers Alliance, this two-year dream is now a reality and is accessible for those who need it.

Janet Keefe is the lead trustee on the work in Warrington and St Helens and spoke enthusiastically about the work there.

‘MitE is always on the lookout for new volunteers. We’re looking for committed Christians, lay or ordained, who enjoy a challenge, are good listeners, and able to engage with people from all walks of life.’

If this sounds like you and you’re interested in supporting people in their place of work, MitE would love to hear from you. They offer a six-week trial for new volunteers so that you can get a feel for the role before committing to anything long-term. All their new volunteers receive training in the basics of workplace chaplaincy, things you may come across as a chaplain, and basic mental health awareness. Further information is available at www.mite.org.uk