Issue 266 October 2026
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Across five days in September, Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendia met a broad range of people to gain a good picture of life in our archdiocese.
Apostolic Nuncio enjoys ‘wonderful’ Liverpool visit In this issue:
A Crown of Joy: Discovering St Francis in the Month of the Holy Rosary Also: Warrington parish welcomes Palestinian schoolgirls
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From the Archbishop’s Desk On 10 October we celebrate ADOREMUS, the National Eucharistic Congress, which invites us to renewal in the Eucharistic Lord. Events will be taking place in cathedrals around the country. In London, there will be Masses, a procession between Southwark and Westminster Cathedrals, Benediction, and an all-night vigil. Here in Liverpool, in the Metropolitan Cathedral, there will also be Masses, a Eucharistic Procession, Benediction and also workshops which will help us to deepen our love for Jesus present in the Blessed Sacrament. I invite you to join me in the Cathedral and spend the day with Jesus. Eucharist comes from the Greek word meaning ‘thanksgiving’. It is the great act of thanksgiving in the Mass when we remember and participate in the sacrifice of Christ on the cross when He poured out His love to save you and me. Each week, Sunday is the Day of the Lord when we are called to gather and celebrate Mass, remembering Jesus’ death and resurrection, which saved us and gave us entry into His resurrection and the new life of baptism. We thank, praise, adore, and are nourished by His Word in the scriptures and the Sacrament of His Body and Blood. We are renewed to continue our daily lives of sacrificial love in the ordinariness of daily life. The Mass leads into both adoration of Jesus’ Body and Blood truly present in the Blessed Sacrament and deeper involvement in the Church’s mission in the world. We pray before the Blessed Sacrament to continue to adore Him who is truly present and our salvation. We adore, and we offer our prayers for our needs and the needs of the world. St Teresa of Calcutta said that prayer before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament is the “best time you will spend on earth”. The Eucharist also leads into social action, peace-making and love of others. St John tells us that Jesus washed His disciples’ feet at the Last Supper and dried them with a towel. Jesus teaches us that His sacrifice on the cross is to be imitated by our love of one another. Jesus said, “Do this in memory of me”. As we celebrate Adoremus this year, I encourage you to thank God for the gift of the Eucharist, to deepen your time for Eucharistic adoration, and find ways individually and as a parish community to wash one another’s feet. St Carlo Acutis, pray for us.
Contents: 4 Main Feature Apostolic Nuncio enjoys ‘wonderful’ Liverpool visit 7
Sunday Reflections
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From the Archives An Irish home from home
9 News News from around the archdiocese 14 What’s On What’s happening in the archdiocese 16 Pastoral Ponderings
Archbishop John Sherrington Archbishop of Liverpool
Monthly prayer intentions
17 Profile Father John Asanyire 18 Catholic Life 19 Cathedral Education Spotlights and Headlights
OCTOBER
For mental health ministry. Let us pray that the mental health ministry be established throughout the Church, helping to overcome the stigma and discrimination of persons with mental illnesses.
27 Youth Ministry 28 Pic Extras Mum’s the word News from the KSC 29 Dialogue and Unity
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“The common good cannot be built only by politics, economics or technology. It requires moral imagination, spiritual depth and a shared concern for those who are too easily forgotten. ” Archbishop Buendia
Apostolic Nuncio enjoys ‘wonderful’ Liverpool visit Across five days in September, Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendia met a broad range of people to gain a good picture of life in our archdiocese. By Simon Hart “I bring you the blessings and greetings from Pope Leo XIV.” These words, which echoed around the Metropolitan Cathedral on Sunday 13 September, were uttered by Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendia, the Apostolic Nuncio to Great Britain.
He was addressing the congregation during the choral evening prayer that brought a conclusion to his successful five-day visit to the Archdiocese of Liverpool . During his stay, which began on Wednesday 9 September, he met clergy, religious, Catholic educators, hundreds of schoolchildren, and parish communities. And on his departure from a city he first visited 40 years ago, he underlined his appreciation with the warm assertion that “Liverpool has a wonderful spirit”. The Apostolic Nuncio’s first full day, 10 September, was dedicated to Catholic education, and it began with a Mass at St Mary’s, Leyland, attended by 400 pupils, teachers, governors, representatives from Catholic multiacademy trusts, and priests and deacons. Afterwards, he had lunch with representatives from Catholic education and told them: “I wish to say thank you to the headteachers, teachers, governors, chaplains, priests, parish leaders, support staff, parents,
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trustees and all who serve the mission of Catholic education in this local Church. Your work is often demanding and not always thanked.
“This morning we were reminded that the school is not only a place of instruction. It’s a place where Christ meets the young; where faith is passed on and where every child, whether four or eighteen years old, is helped to discover that he or she is known, loved and called by God. Catholic education is, therefore, not something alongside the mission of the Church. It belongs to the very heart of her mission.”
In the same address, Archbishop Maury cited Pope Leo’s Apostolic Letter on Catholic education, ‘Drawing New Maps of Hope’ and the importance of the link between parish and school. He also acknowledged “the leadership of Archbishop John Sherrington and his vision, ‘A Family in Christ: Our Future Together’, intended to safeguard Catholic identity, share resources, support staff and governors, and ensure that Catholic education can flourish for future generations.” Later, the Apostolic Nuncio visited St John Rigby College in Wigan before moving on to St Anne and Blessed Dominic Church in St Helens for evening prayer and Benediction with school chaplains. Joan McCarthy, director of education for the
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Archdiocese of Liverpool , said: “It was a great privilege to dedicate part of the Apostolic Nuncio’s visit to celebrating Catholic education and showcasing the outstanding children, dedicated staff, and excellent facilities across our archdiocese.”
The centrepiece of the following day’s itinerary came at Liverpool Cathedral where, in the Sir Giles Gilbert Scott Suite, Archbishop Maury was guest of honour for a civic and ecumenical encounter with guests including the Lord Mayor, Councillor William Shortall, and Lord Lieutenant, Peter Oliver, together with other civic and faith leaders. That was followed by choral evensong at the Lady Chapel. During the initial gathering, Archbishop Maury gave an address titled ‘Better Together in Hope’. He spoke about the symbolism of Hope Street linking Liverpool’s two cathedrals and reflected that “faith is never merely private sentiment” but rather something “embodied in institutions, in service and in care for the dignity of every human being”. This led him to recall the efforts of Bishop David Sheppard and Archbishop Derek Worlock, together with the Revd Dr John Newton, in pursuit of public co-operation and the common good.
“The common good cannot be built only by politics, economics or technology,” he reflected. “It requires moral imagination, spiritual depth and a shared concern for those who are too easily forgotten. Even for this reason, Christian faith has a vital role in public life. It offers a voice of conscience, reminding society that people are not merely consumers or economic units but persons with eternal worth.”
have shown that it is possible to serve the common good together without denying the integrity of one’s own tradition. May Liverpool continue to be a place where faith serves the common good and where Christians walk together.”
Referring to Pope Leo’s encyclical ‘Magnifica Humanitas’, he elaborated: “The Holy Father asks in ‘Magnifica Humanitas’ to safeguard the human person in a time of transformation. That task cannot be delegated to machines, markets or institutions alone. It must be embraced by communities of conscience. It must be carried by men and women who believe that public life can still be honourable, that dialogue can still bear fruit and that love can still shape history. “‘Magnifica Humanitas’ challenges us at this level. It warns against a culture of power in which man is measured only by usefulness. It calls instead for a civilisation of love: a society which is governed by wisdom, not by love of money. For faith leaders, too, there’s an invitation. We must be present in the public square with confidence. Liverpool’s faith communities
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On Saturday 12 September, the Apostolic Nuncio celebrated Mass at St Oswald’s Church, Old Swan, to mark the 175th anniversary of the Sisters of Mercy at the parish. That evening, he attended a concert at St Francis de Sales Church in Walton.
His visit concluded at the Metropolitan Cathedral on Sunday 13 with 11am Mass and later, at 3pm, choral evening prayer– the latter to mark 175 years of the Chapter of Canons. The Apostolic Nuncio said: “Over the last few days, I’ve had the privilege of visiting some of the parishes, schools, shrines, religious houses and towns of this archdiocese. I’m profoundly grateful to the clergy, religious and lay faithful who have offered such a kind welcome. In particular, I thank Archbishop John Sherrington and Dean Anthony O’Brien for their gracious hospitality.”
Archbishop Sherrington said: “I’d like to thank Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendia for spending time with us here in the Archdiocese of Liverpool. It has been a great pleasure to welcome him and to share with him the life and mission of the archdiocese. His visit has involved a busy and varied programme, giving him the opportunity to meet a wide cross-section of people, including religious communities, schoolchildren, parishioners and our civic, ecumenical and inter-faith partners. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to making his visit so memorable and who extended such a warm and generous welcome.”
In his own words… “These pastoral visits are a very good way of gaining a broader picture of the local Church. I was able to spend time with staff and students from various schools, to meet volunteers at different charities and social outreach projects, as well as the curial officials who work for the archdiocese. I was grateful to spend an afternoon with the civic authorities and religious leaders at the Anglican Cathedral. Such occasions are always an opportunity to strengthen ecumenical and inter-faith relations, as well engage in an honest and meaningful dialogue with those who bear significant responsibilities in our society. In due time, I will offer the Holy See a report of my visit, as I always do. It is one way in which the Holy Father can remain informed of the local Churches – I give an overview of what I’ve seen, who I’ve met and some of the challenges that the diocese might be experiencing. On a more personal level, a particular highlight was the concert at St Frances de Sales Church – I have a great love of music, and it was of a high quality. Above all, I would like to thank everybody for their very warm welcome. Liverpool has a wonderful spirit!”
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Sunday reflections
On a liturgical note Come, ye thankful people… Thankfulness is not a passing moment in a Christian’s life but needs to be an attitude of our daily living.
At this time of year, in many parts of our archdiocese, there will be harvest festivals in our churches and schools, and we will express thanks for – and recognise that we should never take for granted – the harvest of the Earth. Even if it comes to us pre-packed or tinned, the food that we enjoy has its roots in earth which is tilled and cared for by human ingenuity and skill – it is quite literally ‘fruit of the earth and the work of human hands’. So when we keep a harvest festival, just as when responding to CAFOD’s call for a fast day on the first Friday in October, it is not just thanksgiving for the bounty of the earth and the sea, but also gratitude for those who plough both earth and sea to bring home to us these good things. Mindful also of the exploitation both of natural resources and indeed of human labour, we work and pray for justice and for wisdom in our daily choices and our taking care of the Earth, our planet.
Sunday thoughts
Canon Philip Gillespie
Here on the Isle of Man, there is a lovely evening hymn which, while sung throughout the year, is particularly suited to this time of the Harvest Thanksgiving:
“We thank Thee, Lord, for sunshine, dew and rain, Broadcast from Heav’n by Thine almighty hand Source of all life, unnumbered as the sand – Bird, beast and fish, herb, fruit and golden grain.
“O Bread of Life, Thou in Thy word hast said, Who feeds in faith on Me shall never die! In mercy hear Thy hungry children’s cry, Father, give us this day our daily bread! “Sow in our hearts the seeds of Thy dear love, That we may reap contentment, joy, and peace; Then, when at last our earthly labours cease, Grant us to join Thy harvest home above.”
Mgr John Devine OBE
I recently went to see ‘The Odyssey’. A gruelling experience – not least because of the film’s length.
Familiar with Homer’s epic story from my school days, I was fascinated to see the trials of Odysseus receiving the specialeffects treatment: the Trojan Horse, the one-eyed Cyclops, Circe’s Island, the giant cannibals, the six-headed monster… Both ‘The Iliad’, Homer’s earlier work, and ‘The Odyssey’ have been described as the equivalent of the Bible for the ancient Greeks. Do these two books describe events that really happened? Hardly, but they both depict and celebrate profound truths about the human condition.
Many people of my generation grew up as Catholics but have abandoned their faith. For some, their childhood faith hit the buffers when the teaching and discipline of the Church came up against their teenage and adult encounters with sexuality and relationships. Others found that the events depicted in the Old Testament – the world created in six days, Noah’s Ark and the parting of the Red Sea – stretched their credulity. Similarly, the stories of Jesus in the Gospels – the Virgin Birth, the Feeding of the Five Thousand, Jesus walking on water and the Resurrection – no longer held up to scientific scrutiny. As one teenage son told his bewildered mother: “You don’t still believe in all that stuff, do you?” There’s an assumption that questioning one’s faith cannot be tolerated. We talk of
Muslim fundamentalism. Seldom do we recognise Catholic fundamentalism.
All religious language, in the Bible and in the creeds, is an attempt to describe the indescribable. Discovering and debating the truths of our faith is not a zero-sum contest between the Book of Genesis and astrophysics. In professing our faith in Jesus as the Son of God, we are not abandoning our brains to the fairies. Rather we are expressing our belief that there’s more to life than biology; than a dog-eat-dog lust for power; than a cruel struggle for survival in a world of winners and losers; and that life and death aren’t random. Maybe people have walked away from the Church because they have never been given the freedom to recognise their own stumbling life stories in the story of our Redemption. They have never been given the space to see the Good News of Salvation as a metaphor for all they themselves hold dear. At the end of the day, God is love, love made manifest in the life and death of Jesus. Love is a language recognised by all people of goodwill. Some people say they are lapsed Catholics. Maybe they’re just grown-up Catholics and the Church isn’t big enough to embrace them.
Filled with the fullness of God Marciana was very smiley, but quiet and demure and did not say very much to me at first. I later learned she was fluent in several languages which she had picked up from working in many expats’ houses. When I was asked to lead a parish mission in Tanzania, it was Marciana who came with me and acted as my interpreter.
I remember one day leaving a very old man in a village in the Tanzanian bush. As we left, she whispered a word in her local dialect. When I asked her what the word meant, she made the sign of the cross and said: “It means full of God.” It was her way of saying that the man we had just left was filled with the utter fullness of God, as Saint Paul prayed all believers should be, in chapter three of the Letter to the Ephesians. This man exuded holiness and had lived his long life at the service of his community. He was full of compassion, mercy, love and forgiveness. He was indeed “full of God”. I have discovered over the years that I’ve been working in retreat centres – and particularly over the last few years with groups of all kinds – that people are desperately searching for meaning and for life deep within, a cry that some of us have not identified yet because we are so well protected and covered up.
It seems to me that we as Church have a role in our communities and parishes to be places that cultivate life and love of humanity, rather than buildings where a liturgy that speaks to very few happens. When opening the Synod, Pope Francis asked the members to embrace the vision of an open and welcoming Church. He said: “The blessing and welcoming gaze of Jesus prevents us from falling into some dangerous temptations: of being a rigid Church, which arms itself against the world and looks backward; of being a lukewarm Church, which surrenders to the fashions of the world; of being a tired Church, turned in on itself.”
That’s quite a powerful statement to make. I am convinced that we will help no-one reflect on the truth of being filled with the utter fullness of God if we are constantly looking backwards or if we are rigid towards people. One of the beauties of our centre is that we welcome everyone and try to affirm the dignity of everyone. We ask no questions of anyone but just try to respond to their need, aware that they’re filled with the utter fullness of God. They just do not know it yet. My prayer for each of us is that we might realise that whoever we welcome – and in whatever way – we also welcome Christ. Father Chris Thomas
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from the archives
An Irish home from home by Neil Sayer, Archdiocesan Archivist
Liverpool Irish Centre, Mount Pleasant, 1995
The ballroom, 1965
The Irish Festival is being held at various venues in Liverpool during October. Sadly, one of the venues not in use is the former Irish Centre on Mount Pleasant.
the Gaelic League and the Gaelic Athletic Association: “If Irish people do not meet together then they cannot keep their cultural heritage”, he said. “If they are a strong community and retain their heritage they can then integrate fully with their host community.” During the 1950s, Tom remembered, “you could go to a céilí every night of the week.” They were usually organised by individual parishes, and although there were various Irish societies they had nowhere to call home. Tom credits Fr Michael O’Connor, subsequently Cathedral Administrator, with the suggestion that the Irish community “should acquire our own premises instead of having to keep hiring halls.” An organising committee was established, with Tom as its chairman: “The Wellington Rooms were up for sale at that time, so we put in a bid and were successful.” At its most successful the Irish Centre employed 35 staff in its restaurant, ballroom and gift shop.
Because of its location down the hill from the Cathedral, many people think that the archdiocese owns the building. While that isn’t the case, events at the Irish Centre certainly featured quite often in the pages of the Pic from the 1960s to the 1990s. The building was designed by Edmund Aikin as a meeting place for Liverpool’s mercantile elite. It was built in 1815-1816 as the Assembly Rooms for the Wellington Club and was used for over a century for balls, parties and other social occasions. Its facilities were therefore entirely appropriate for the needs of the city’s Irish community, who by the 1960s were looking for a venue for their social and cultural activities.
It was officially opened as the Irish Centre, appropriately enough, with a banquet on the Feast of St Brigid, 1 February 1965. The ballroom had been given a new floor and could accommodate 500 people for dancing. Despite its status as a Grade II* listed building, the rest of the interior had also been renovated and redecorated to provide a buffet room, bar, two lounges and a reception hall.
In its heyday, the Centre offered dancing and other entertainments on Saturdays and Sundays, with Irish showbands and comedians. Children’s dance classes were held, the Irish Pipe Band practised there and welcomed new members, lessons in traditional Irish musical instruments were given by members of the local branch of Comhaltas, and there was a youth club and Gaelic language classes. For those who liked their sport, the Centre provided a venue for a Golf Society, Gaelic Football Club and Finn Harps soccer team. In the 1980s, there was a flourishing Over-60s Club, whose members met for recreation, companionship and lunch. A gift shop sold a wide variety of Irish goods, including Waterford crystal, Belleek pottery, pewter, Irish linen and books. It even stocked Irish produce including white pudding, cheese and sausages. Tom Walsh was the first manager of the club and chairman of the Irish Centre. He was still in post when interviewed for the Pic in March 1976. He seems to have had a fairly typical Liverpool-Irish upbringing in St Vincent de Paul parish. His father came from Galway and worked as a docker; his mother ran a corner shop. “During my childhood,” Tom recalled, “I only ever remember listening to Irish radio, and the only newspapers we took regularly were Irish ones. You could live in Liverpool while remaining in an almost totally Irish atmosphere, and many people did.” Tom himself was a member of 8
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Shortly after the Centre celebrated its silver jubilee in 1990, it ran into financial difficulties, perhaps not helped by a costly refurbishment completed in March 1992 that included the long Kennedy Bar. The venue limped on in various guises but finally closed in 1997, despite a campaign to rescue it: it has been empty and unused ever since. In 1999 the former St Michael’s Parish Centre in Everton became the new home of Liverpool’s Irish community. Many of the organisations that had been based in Mount Pleasant relocated there, and in 2017 the club was officially renamed as Liverpool’s Irish Centre. It continues to work to celebrate and promote Irish culture – music, language, dance, literature and sport – and provide opportunities for socialising and learning. The Liverpool Irish Festival will be launched there on 16 October.
Advert in the Pic for events at the Irish Centre, March 1988
Tom Walsh, the first manager of the Irish Centre club, pictured in 1976
News diary
News diary If you’ve got any news from your parish that you’d like featured e-mail us with the details at: CatholicPic@rcaol.org.uk
Warrington parish welcomes Palestinian schoolgirls Parishioners at All Saints Church in Golborne hosted some special visitors recently – a Palestinian school party who called in for an afternoon during a visit to England from their home in the occupied West Bank.
The seven girls, all Muslim and aged between 12 and 14, are from the Askar refugee camp on the outskirts of Nablus. All of them are living without their fathers, who have either been imprisoned or killed by the Israeli security forces. Yet, as they explained during their visit on 19 August, they find an outlet for their talents at the Dar Al-Fonoun arts centre in Askar, telling a group of All Saints parishioners about their love of Palestinian art, song and dance. Indeed, they even treated their audience to a display of dance – and an impromptu lesson!
For the school party who visited All Saints, there was deep gratitude to Father Gordon Abbs and his parishioners for their hospitality as well as their support with efforts to raise funds for schoolbags for their classmates for the new academic year. To make a donation to their Dar Al-Fonoun arts centre, contact Julia_simpkins@yahoo.co.uk.
Linda Morris, who organised the parish visit, explained: “They want people to know that they have their traditions. They are people in their own right and they have a right to be heard.” The girls’ teachers, Hatem Hafi and Falastin Dwaikat, also spoke about the challenges of life in the West Bank, citing Israeli army raids into the camp and the threats children face, such as from inhaling tear gas.
Since October 2023, over 240 children have been killed in the West Bank – be it by Israeli forces or civilians – and UK foreign secretary Ed Miliband has warned of the “ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in areas of the West Bank, perpetrated by settler terrorists”.
Archdiocesan Church now Grade II* listed St Oswald and St Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic Church in Ashton-in-Makerfield has been upgraded from Grade II to Grade II* listed status in recognition of its exceptional architectural and historic significance.
Grade II* status is awarded to fewer than six per cent of listed buildings in England and recognises buildings considered to be of more than special interest. The new designation means the church will receive a higher level of consideration in future planning and development decisions.
The Church, built between 1925-1930, is the masterwork of architect J Sydney Brocklesby and contains an unrivalled collection of stained glass by renowned Irish artist Harry Clarke. The church’s distinctive design includes local stonework and a striking conical tower.
“We are, of course, only custodians of what has been handed down to us, and this church is a testament to the faith of those who have gone before us. Our task now is to care for what we have been given in order to hand on to future generations.”
Emma Squire and Claudia Kenyatta, Co-CEOs of Historic England, said: “This remarkable church thoroughly deserves its elevation to Grade II*. Inspired by the Romanesque churches in the south of France, it is widely considered to be J Sydney Brocklesby’s masterpiece.”
The church was built to house the Holy Hand of St Edmund Arrowsmith, the Jesuit priest and local martyr who was executed at Lancaster in 1628 and canonised in 1970. His shrine was designed in 1934 by FX Velarde, one of the leading Catholic church architects of the 20th century. Parish Priest Canon John Gorman welcomed the news, saying: “As a parish community, we are delighted at the news that St. Oswald & St. Edmund Arrowsmith Church is now considered to be of more than special interest, and we’re grateful to all those who have helped bring about this Grade II* listing.
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News diary
Celebrating Altar Servers across the archdiocese There has been plenty to celebrate in the altar serving ministry at parishes across the archdiocese, with new servers coming forward and existing servers reaching important milestones.
At Christ the King Church, Wavertree, a record number of children have come forward to become altar servers following their First Holy Communion in May. Ten children who received the sacrament at Christ the King and Our Lady’s have received permission from their parents to begin serving seven have already begun serving at Sunday Mass.
Similarly, in the parish of St Luke the Evangelist, Whiston, Michael Sidor, Jayden James, and Ashwin Ansan also hit this important milestone, receiving their Guild medals and thanks for their commitment, dignity in service, and the example they give to the community. Congratulations to the new members of the Guild of St Stephen, and to all the new altar servers beginning their ministry!
Parish priest Fr Colin Fealey welcomed the new servers, saying: “Thanks very much for signing up, it’s great to have you on board joining our wonderful team.” Meanwhile, at St Dominic’s, two long-serving altar servers have reached a special milestone. Adegor Michael-Peter Oghenovie Onyedikachi and Adegor David-Raphael Oghenefeme Chibuakum have faithfully served at the parish for the past three years.
At the 11am Mass on Sunday 9 August, Fr Ealey enrolled Michael and David into the Guild of St Stephen, marking an important moment in their ministry.
7 of the 10 new altar servers in Christ the King Church
Young Catholics in Widnes Visit Arrowsmith House Twenty-one members of Young Catholics in Widnes recently enjoyed a day of pilgrimage, history and liturgical reflection. The group travelled to Arrowsmith House, the home associated with the final Mass of St Edmund Arrowsmith. The pilgrimage provided an opportunity to learn more about the life and faith of the English martyr.
The group then travelled to St Mary’s Church in Leyland, where Maria Hall, Pastoral Liturgist, led two sessions exploring the history and development of the Mass. Fr Joseph Bibby, Parish Priest, also gave the group a fascinating tour of the church, while hosting the second part of the day alongside members of the parish team. The day offered the young Catholics an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the Church’s history and liturgy while sharing fellowship together.
To find out more about the group and keep up with their activities, follow Young Catholics in Widnes on Instagram: @young_catholics_in_widnes.
Liverpool Archdiocese parishes supporting CAFOD Family Fast Day Grow food. Provide meals. Help children learn. “We are getting more energy.” – Tayla
Tayla is 12 and dreams of becoming a doctor. In northern Zimbabwe, drought has left communities facing food and water shortages, making it harder for children to learn. With support from CAFOD’s local Caritas partners, Tayla’s school now has a solar-powered water pump providing safe water for drinking and vegetable gardens. The gardens help the school grow nutritious food for school meals throughout the year, giving children the energy they need to learn, play, and stay in school.
This Harvest Family Fast Day (which was on Friday 2 October), we thank all volunteers and supporters helping with our appeal – whether through short talks at Mass or hosting a soup lunch at St Mary’s, Leyland; or a sale of fruit, veg, homemade chutney and jam at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs, Croxteth. Join parishes around the archdiocese who are putting their faith into action in this practical way! 10
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News diary
Student Honoured with Edmund Rice Leadership Award A former student of St Edward’s College has been recognised for her outstanding commitment to service and leadership after receiving the Edmund Rice Charism Award for Leadership.
Harriet Paes first became involved with the Edmund Rice Network while in Year 12, when St Edward’s nominated her as its Human Rights and Edmund Rice International Youth Ambassador. She co-led the school’s Justice Society, undertook training in human rights and advocacy, and represented her school and other Edmund Rice young people at the Human Rights Council in Geneva. Her commitment to justice has continued through her long standing involvement with the Justice and Peace Youth Group in South Liverpool Deanery, which she joined at just 10 years old. Now, at 20, she serves on the group’s leadership team. Harriet has also volunteered with Edmund Rice Camps, which provide holiday experiences for vulnerable children while helping young leaders develop their skills. This year, she stepped up as Liverpool Coordinator, taking responsibility for preparing and organising the camp. She has also led the new ‘Growing Hearts’ initiative, an after-school club run by sixthform volunteers for primary-aged children and inspired by Edmund Rice values.
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The award citation praised Harriet’s “calmness, positivity and authenticity”, describing her commitment as going “way above what we as the ER Network expect of our volunteers”.
It also highlighted the happiness she brings to vulnerable and marginalised children.
David Gibson, European Province Leader of the Christian Brothers, congratulated Harriet, saying the award recognised her “generous efforts and contribution” and her willingness to offer leadership and service in the spirit of Blessed Edmund Rice. Congratulations to Harriet on this well-deserved recognition!
News diary
Archdiocese of Liverpool and CAFOD return from ‘emotional’ trip to Kenya Delegates from the Archdiocese of Liverpool and CAFOD have returned from their ‘emotional’ fact-finding and faith sharing trip to Kenya.
The travelling party spent just over a week there, visiting CAFOD’s office in Nairobi where they also had Mass at the Basilica, and projects in Marsabit in northern Kenya and Isiolo in central Kenya. Fr Anthony Kelly; Fr Martin Fyles; seminarian Joseph Campbell; headteacher Susan Noblet; teacher Philip Melia; Kathryn Edmond, CAFOD Parish Volunteer and Chaplain; and Colette Byrne, from CAFOD were all on the trip.
Sue, from St Mary’s Catholic Primary in Euxton, spoke about the “inspirational experience” of visiting these projects, which included tree planting. “My visit to Kenya with CAFOD and the Archdiocese of Liverpool has been a truly life-changing, thoughtprovoking and inspirational experience.
“It was truly a privilege to meet those who work incredibly hard on the ground utilising every penny donated to help some of the hardest-to-reach communities. “We travelled the vast desert for hours by car to reach the most remote communities who were so happy to welcome us. They said they don’t receive many visitors that often. They told us about their challenges of a lack of water. Currently there is a drought, and their water tank is empty.
“CAFOD support through cash donations. This is used to buy water and food, but there are still other costs that the community need to cover such as the cost of sending their children to school. “It is a real challenge of survival, and the communities are incredibly resilient. CAFOD, alongside local experts in Caritas, do remarkable work in supporting these wonderful communities.”
“Meeting the communities, Church partners and Caritas teams who work tirelessly to support people was humbling and deeply moving. I know this visit won’t simply become a lovely memory — it has changed something in me. I returned with a renewed sense of purpose and a determination to do more to support CAFOD’s incredible work.” Meanwhile, Colette spoke of the privilege to meet those people working on the ground in these communities. “We’re so grateful to Liverpool Archdiocese for sending a fantastic group of people to visit CAFOD projects and meet our church partners who we work through.
Speakeasy 50th Anniversary Celebration A much-loved parish music group is preparing to celebrate 50 years of faith, friendship and music at St William of York Church, Thornton. Speakeasy was formed in 1976 when Fr Tom Leigh noticed the large number of young people attending Mass and invited them to gather in the parish hall on Monday evenings to explore their faith and share their questions.
Music soon became central to the meetings, and the group took its name after a member remarked, on seeing the empty guitar cases, “This looks like a Speakeasy.” The group began singing at the 6pm Sunday Mass, with Helen McColl later taking over leadership when Fr Tom became the Archdiocese’s Vocations Director. Speakeasy was pioneering within the archdiocese, introducing many beloved hymns still sung today. Their impressive four-part harmonies became a hallmark of their performances.
Over the years, the group has sung at weddings, baptisms, Confirmations and funerals, travelled with the archdiocese on pilgrimages to Lourdes, and was honoured to sing for Pope John Paul II during his visit to Liverpool. Five members went on to become priests, and several members found love in the group. Although members have moved away, including overseas, the friendships formed through Speakeasy have endured, with former members still gathering several times a year. Speakeasy will be celebrating their 50th anniversary on 24 October, beginning with Mass at St William of York Church, Edge Lane, Thornton at 6pm, followed by refreshments and music in the parish club. Speakeasy warmly invites anyone who has a connection to the group, past or present, to join in this special occasion. 12
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For catering reasons, please contact Helen McColl at helen. speakeasy@hotmail.com or 07778 746600 if you plan to attend. We look forward to celebrating together, rekindling old friendships and making new memories as we honour fifty years of faith, music, and community.
Called to Action. Called to Love.
The anti-racist demo outside the Royal Oak on County Road in Walton on 13 June 2026 sounded an alarm bell for us all. Yet again, the Walton community was targeted by far-right activists who for the first time outnumbered counterdemonstrators. How can we forget the terrible expressions of anger and destruction that befell this community following the terrible murders of Bebe (6), Elsie Dot (7) and Alice (9) in Southport in 2024.
The riots of 2024 brought fear and violence to this community. Many businesses were destroyed and the brand-new library hollowed out. The violence left home carers from ethnic minorities working in the area (itself a BME community) traumatised and vulnerable as they tried to do their jobs caring for old and frail clients. The library, however, became a symbol of hope around which the community gathered, raising the £250,000 to rebuild via a JustGiving page. This showed what a traumatised community could accomplish against the odds. The brutal murder of Henry Nowak, an 18-year-old university student, in December last year, left the nation reeling, with Nigel Farage saying: “I suggest the rest of us respond to this with pure cold rage”. His parents’ calls for ‘calm’ were ignored. Fast-forward to Saturday 13 June 2026. A beautiful day. The sun is shining with blue skies overhead. An eerie stillness permeates the air. A road normally filled with bustling traffic and busy people is strangely empty. Shop fronts looking out, blank and battened down.
People have come to stand together in solidarity against the injustice of racism and false news; a recognition of our shared humanity with a desire to reach out to our brothers and sisters on the other side. It’s not the fault of asylum seekers and refugees that we are in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis. It’s not their fault that not enough social housing has been built over the last 40 years. It’s not their fault that rents have been pushed sky-high and parts of the NHS privatised. It’s also not their fault that we are living in a new era where the world order is changing so quickly, it’s hard to keep up. According to news reports, no one was hurt, but there were eight arrests, mostly for public disorder. The police did an outstanding job.
Churches Together in the Merseyside Region (CTMR) issued a joint prayer on 11 June which stated: “We wish to affirm the dignity of every person, whatever their colour or creed,
as created in the image and likeness of God”. The first publications of the far-right demo emerged on 30 May.
My question is: do we need to do more as a universal Church, God’s Church here on earth? There are a number of social justice organisations, but is the issue of racial justice a separate one that should be addressed and responded to as such? Most large organisations collect demographic data on those who use their services, including the Anglican Church. How many of our churches have a statue of a black saint or Communion, Confirmation or marriage cards depicting black people / children? Small things like this matter - they encourage us to consider how our churches visibly reflect the diversity of God’s family. If you go into a church and don’t see yourself represented, do you feel welcome? The Anglican tradition employs a Racial Justice Officer - there is no similar role within our archdiocese. Someone to educate and help build bridges.
Is it time for us to start responding with more ‘Action?’ Words are, of course, meaningful and important, but: “They will know you are my Disciples by your love” (Jn 13:35) and “If I speak with the tongues of men or of angels but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal” (1 Cor 13:1).
Love is a doing word - it is a call to action. Love is not passive.
It is Jesus who asks: “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?... My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s word and put it into practice” (Luke 8:19-21).
For further information, please contact Merseyside Catholic Association for Racial Justice. Email: carjmerseyside@gmail.com T: 0151 489 3085 Web resources: www.racialjusticehouse.org
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what’s on
October
Saturday 3 October 2026 Young Adult Mass and Dinner with Archbishop John Sherrington 5:00pm at St Philip Neri, Liverpool Archbishop John Sherrington invites young people aged 18-35 to celebrate Mass with him on Saturday 3 October, at 5pm at St Philip Neri Church, Liverpool L8 7NL, followed by dinner at Blackburne House. Anyone is most welcome, and there is no cost for the event. Please book your place for dinner using the link: archdioceseofliverpool.org/youngadultmass For enquiries, please contact Moses at m.mui@rcaol.org.uk Sunday 4 October 2026 St Francis: Celebrating 800 Years 6:00pm at St Francis of Assisi, Garston Pilkington Choir will be performing a special concert to mark the 800th anniversary of the death of St Francis of Assisi. All are welcome to attend. Tickets cost £5 and can be bought from Fr David Potter. You can pay at the door, but it is cash only.
ADOREMUS
HOW WE ARE EU CHARIST A day of Adoration, Reconciliation, shared time of prayer, and a series of workshops exploring spirituality.
SATURDAY 10TH OCTOBE R 9am- 6pm at the Metrop olitan Cathedral
Tuesday 13 October 2026 Archdiocesan Young Adult Group: Faithbased Talk: ‘The Gospel for Catholics - The Wonder of the Incarnation: Matter Matters!’ with Fr Peter McGrail 6:30pm – 8:00pm at Pauline Book Centre Our Archdiocesan Young Adult Group will start meeting again for this academic year at Pauline Book Centre. All between the ages of 18 and 35 are welcome to attend. Friday 16 – Sunday 18 October 2026 Be Women of Courage At The Irenaeus Project, Liverpool A women’s weekend of sharing and exploring the call of God in our lives. All women are welcome. For more information, contact centreirenaeus@gmail.com
ALL ARE WELCO ME Sign up for workshops here
Saturday 10 October 2026 Adoremus 2026 9:00am – 6:00pm at Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King, Liverpool Following the success of Adoremus Liverpool 2025, the event is returning this year! Throughout the day, there will be Eucharistic Adoration, Holy Mass, opportunities for confession, and shared times of prayer, alongside a range of engaging workshops. All visitors are welcome to drop in and out during the day. Workshop sign-up is required due to limited spaces, and places are allocated on a firstcome, first-served basis, so book early to avoid disappointment. Guests can register for more than one workshop. Come and join us to adore the Lord Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament and deepen your faith through prayer, reflection, and learning! Sign up for workshops here: archdioceseofliverpool.org/adoremus2026
Saturday 24 October 2026 Speakeasy Music Group 50th Anniversary Celebration 6:00pm at St William of York Church Speakeasy Music Group will be celebrating its 50th anniversary at St William of York Church. Mass will be celebrated at 6pm, followed by music and refreshments in the parish club. We would love to welcome any past members or friends of Speakeasy so that we can catch up and reminisce about the many memories we share. For further information, please contact Helen McCall (formerly Exton/Cain) at helen. speakeasy@hotmail.com or 07778 746600. Sunday 25 – Saturday 31 October 2026 Guild of St Stephen Pilgrimage to Lourdes The Liverpool Archdiocesan Council of the Guild of St Stephen will be doing their annual pilgrimage to Lourdes in October. It is open to everybody - prices start at £650 per person, and £750 for solo travellers. For more information, please contact Rose Curry 07932 729896.
Thursday 22 October 2026 South Sefton Deanery Women’s Faith & Friendship Meeting 7:00pm at St Helen’s Parish Centre Come along to share prayer, friendship, hospitality, along with news from our parishes and a short talk on a “Saint” whose feast we have recently celebrated. For more information contact Mpmmurphypat@aol.com
See more event details on our website: www.liverpoolcatholic.org.uk 14
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Cathedral
Jottings of a Rome Pilgrim By Pat Murphy
Rome, you may have gathered by now, is one of my favourite – if not my favourite – cities. It’s the home of Christianity. It’s a city visited by millions of people every year – not just by Christians, but people of many religions and none, for its sheer rugged beauty and elegance. It has it all: architecture, sculptures, paintings, history, bridges, and so much more. Fountains have always fascinated me, and especially in Rome where there are so many (about 1,000, I believe), often with a story attached. Even if you have not visited the city, everyone knows of the Trevi Fountain (three coins in a…) and the promise of a return visit to the city if you throw the coins into the fountain. Judging by the number of visitors, these days there must be a hefty sum of money that is tossed in, but fortunately it is collected and donated to charity each year. On my first visit to the Trevi Fountain, I was rather underwhelmed. In the early 1970s, like so many buildings, it was totally black. Post-millennium, it certainly has the wow factor now, and is one of the most visited places in Rome. Another fountain, often a meeting place, is the “Fountain of the Boat” complete with a rather large fish at the base of the Spanish Steps. It was commissioned by the pope in the 17th century as part of a papal project to have a fountain in every major square in Rome. Quite an undertaking. It is one of my favourites, and I am saddened that it has been damaged by tourists on several occasions.
Of course, St Peter’s Square has two identical fountains which stand either side of the Obelisk, designed by Bernini (who designed St Peter’s Square’s colonnades). A few years ago, while in Rome, we had a short after-dinner walk to the square, which is a lovely way to round the day off in Rome, as the area becomes very quiet and gentle. The fountains were floodlit and about 20 pigeons were showering in one of the fountains, taking no notice of anyone, and having photographs taken from all angles. Friday night is bath night for the pigeons! Such a fun and happy memory of the square at night.
Where are my favourite fountains? The Piazza Navona, especially the famous Bernini fountain, The Fountain of the Four Rivers, facing the Church of St Agnes. The legend of the fountain is that Bernini covered the head of the Nile as if the sculpture couldn’t bear to look at the façade of the church designed by his rival Borromini. Bernini said the church would collapse at any moment. A legend, but both the church and the fountain are still standing.
Cathedral Record Canon Anthony O’Brien – Cathedral Dean
The Archdiocesan Day of Eucharistic Adoration this year at the Cathedral, entitled ‘Adoremus’, will be on Saturday 10 October. It will be held on the same day as the similar national event in Westminster. and there will be an opportunity to witness some of the Westminster event, particularly the keynote talk, through a live stream in the Gibberd Room during the afternoon events here. The day at our Cathedral will run from Mass at 9am through to the Vigil Mass at 5pm. Throughout the day, there will be Eucharistic Adoration, Holy Mass, opportunities for confession, and shared times of prayer, alongside a range of engaging workshops. Those who wish to take part are welcome to come for a particular part of the day or stay for the whole event. While exposition of the Blessed Sacrament is taking place in the Cathedral, there will be opportunities for workshops on a whole series of interesting faith topics in some of the Cathedral meeting spaces and the Crypt Chapel. Due to limited numbers for these workshops, those wishing to attend will need to sign up for them – you can do so at archdioceseofliverpool.org/ adoremus2026. Archbishop John will lead a time of Eucharistic adoration from 3pm, concluding with Benediction, and later that afternoon will preside at the evening vigil Mass.
St Edward’s College community will be joining us for 11am Sunday Mass the day after Adoremus in anticipation of the feast day of St Edward the Confessor, which falls on Tuesday 13 October. Interestingly, he is the first key figure depicted in the Bayeux Tapestry currently on public display in London. On Sunday 18 October, at 11am Solemn Mass, Archbishop Sherrington is inviting families and individuals of many different nationalities to join us for a first ‘Annual Archdiocesan International Mass’. Please do come along.
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pastoral
Pastoral ponderings by Dominic Redcliffe
Hello from Rome to all of you at home – a new year at the Pontifical Beda College
A Crown of Joy:
Discovering St Francis in the Month of the Holy Rosary Written by Lucy Rauer, Catholic Social Action Coordinator
Before I knew it, summer was over, and I’m now back at college starting my third year of seminary studies and formation. The slight difference being in Rome is that even though it’s autumn, the weather is still warm and sunny, and to me it feels like an extended summer. However, the sunny days do shorten, and the Romans themselves can’t wait to get their autumn coats and accessories on - even though I go out and still feel boiling in my puffer jacket!
Late September and October also bring a change as I return to college life. Autumn is the start of the end of the calendar year as the seasons change, but being in education, this change marks the start of new beginnings, whether we might be in school or college at home, or here in Italy. Several new seminarians from across the Englishspeaking world have started here, and I have new subjects to study and a new house role too. Timetables are different from last year, together with the new experiences and challenges that are ahead of me. These new beginnings are all part of seminary formation. Change isn’t always easy for us. We can become comfortable with what we know, and sometimes we would much rather keep things exactly as they are.
Sometimes we might struggle with our faith, make some wrong choices and feel that we can’t change. Yet throughout our lives, God gives us opportunities to begin again. Our faith gives us that joyful hope. Beginning again doesn’t mean that everything that happened before was wasted. Rather, we carry our experiences with us and allow God to use them as part of the person we are becoming. As the scripture in the book of Ecclesiastes says,
“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.”
Please pray for our Liverpool seminarians at the start of the academic year - we are in The Royal English College, Valladolid, Spain; Allen Hall, London; the Venerable English College and the Pontifical Beda College, Rome. Also, please pray for my former fellow seminarian, Deacon Daniel Howarth, who will be ordained to the priesthood this month. Whatever season of life we find ourselves in, God never stops inviting us to grow. There is always the possibility of a new beginning, a fresh start and another opportunity to place our lives into His hands. With my prayers,
Dominic
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In 1209, a small ancient chapel dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary stood just outside the town of Assisi.
Abandoned, crumbling, and in need of a bit of love, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Angels at the Portiuncula would soon become a spiritual home to St Francis who, according to the writings of St Bonaventure, was so moved by ‘the warm devotion he had toward the Lady of the world’, that he took on the task of staying at and repairing this ruined building.
The Chapel of Our Lady of the Angels is now recognised as one of the most significant places in Franciscan history. St Francis built himself a simple hut next to the chapel, where others would soon join him as the first Franciscan community began to take shape. In 1211, it also became a place of refuge for St Clare who, having only moments earlier left her family home to follow a religious call, arrived at the chapel to begin a new way of life, walking alongside St Francis and the first brothers. It was also at Portiuncula that St Francis returned as he sensed his life coming to an end, and on 3 October 1226 – 800 years ago this month – he died in his cell just a stone’s throw away from the chapel. That the chapel at Portiuncula became so central to St Francis’ life, and to the development of the early Franciscan Order, reveals something of the central place Marian devotion holds within the Franciscan tradition. Having restored this chapel dedicated to Mary at the beginning of his conversion, chosen it as the birthplace of his community, and returned there as his earthly life drew to an end, St Francis’ closeness to Our Lady is clear throughout his spiritual journey. St Francis understood that Mary’s life showed perfectly the human response to the overflowing love of God. Her willingness to accept God’s call so
that Christ would become incarnate through her inspired Francis’ own embrace of poverty, so that Christ might live through him.
St Francis’ devotion to Mary continued within the Franciscan tradition, giving rise to Marian devotions such as the Franciscan Crown also known as the Rosary of the Seven Joys. Traditionally traced back to the 15th century, the origin of the Franciscan Crown is linked to a young novice who had shown his love of Our Lady by weaving crowns of flowers for her statue. After entering the Franciscan Order, the rhythm of his new religious life left him without the time to gather the flowers for his personal devotion, and he even considered leaving the community. According to tradition, Mary appeared to him and encouraged him to persevere. Instead of weaving crowns of flowers, she invited him to weave a crown of prayers structured around meditation on the joyful moments of her life: the Rosary of the Seven Joys. The prayer of the Franciscan Crown, or the Rosary of the Seven Joys, remains a cherished devotion in many Franciscan communities today.
This October, as we mark the Feast of St Francis in his Jubilee Year, we have the perfect time to take stock and consider how we can follow in the footsteps of this St Francis by considering the place of Mary in our own lives. Perhaps in this Month of the Holy Rosary, you might even consider praying the Franciscan Crown. The Franciscan Crown is prayed weekly at St Anthony of Padua on Saturdays after 9:30am Mass. If you would like to learn more about how to pray the Franciscan Crown, feel free to explore the Archdiocese of Liverpool’s resources for via our website: www.liverpoolcatholic.org.uk
profile
Father John Asanyire Promoting interreligious dialogue
By Simon Hart For Father John Asanyire, the arrival of autumn has set an alarm bell ringing in his head. After all, he has not forgotten how the heating in the presbytery at Saint Vincent de Paul parish, the place that became his home 11 months ago, began to malfunction earlier this year. “Winter’s approaching again, and if it’s not repaired, I’ve told my confreres I’ll be moving to London!” he says with a laugh as he looks back on the shock of his first English winter.
A member of the congregation of the Missionaries of Africa – also known as the White Fathers – Fr John is a Ghanaian who had previously only lived in his home continent. Landing in Liverpool last November was, quite understandably, a shock to the system. “I left my country and it was 30 degrees and then I got here and I was freezing,” he recalls. “But I’ve got used to it now.” It was not the only thing that he had to get used to here in Liverpool. “What was quite difficult for me at the beginning was the accent,” he explains. “One day a young guy came here, and I couldn’t understand what he said. It was so different that I was wondering whether he was speaking Gaelic!”
The 59-year-old is one of three priests from the White Fathers who are based at St Vincent’s, close to Liverpool One and the Baltic Triangle. He serves this city-centre parish alongside Fr Charles Obanya and Fr Henry Moses Ariho. A list of their duties, beyond administering the sacraments, includes weekly Gospel-sharing sessions, helping with the parish foodbank, and performing chaplaincy work at the Liverpool Women’s University Hospital. “The people here are lively and open, and it’s a very diverse community,” he notes. A priest since 1999, Fr John had previously visited the UK as a student in 1997. He actually spent time at the Jesuit retreat centre in Rainhill, Loyola Hall, but, as he confesses, “didn’t know Liverpool was so near!”. He is now making up for that missed
opportunity. “You have two very nice cathedrals,” he says of his exploration of the city, which has also taken him to several Beatles sightseeing spots – and will in time, he hopes, include his first English football match. It is a long way from his earlier postings with the White Fathers. Father John has had two separate stints in Mali – the first for eight years and the second for another six, sandwiching a period building a new parish back in Ghana. Before coming to Britain, he had been in the Ivory Coast, working for six years in the city of Korhogo.
Our conversation leads to memories of his own home in the Upper East Region of Ghana, where he grew up in the village of Nabango. “It’s a very rural region and we lack roads and telephone connections,” he explains.
The challenges faced in the communities he served as a priest in Mali could be just as considerable. He mentions that there was “no clean water” in his first parish there. Sadly, he has since seen the situation worsen for his old friends in Mali, where there have been three military coups since 2012 and a growing terrorist threat from the north – a consequence, he observes, of the Western powers’ removal of Libyan leader Colonel Muammar Gadaffi. “The time I was living there it was okay,” he recalls. “Most of the population were Muslim but we got along very well. I have many Muslim friends and there were many Muslims and Christians intermarrying.” This point brings us to the very essence of the work of the White Fathers, who can be found across four continents. “We are a missionary congregation that lives in international and intercultural communities, working as missionaries wherever we’re needed,” he explains. “We believe in interreligious dialogue and justice and peace.” A mission, it goes without saying, which feels ever more vital in the world of today.
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Walking Pilgrimage of the Month OCTOBER
Care for Creation: St Francis Jubilee Walk 2026 This month’s Pilgrimage Walk is modelled after the recent Care for Creation walk, which celebrated the 800th Jubilee of St Francis.
Our pilgrimage begins at St Francis of Assisi Church in Garston, an especially fitting place to begin a walk celebrating the Season of Creation and the 800th anniversary of the death of St Francis. From here, the route takes us for approximately 3.6 miles, gradually leaving the busier streets behind and entering some of the beautiful green spaces of south Liverpool, before eventually reaching St Anthony of Padua Church in Mossley Hill. 1. Setting out from St Francis of Assisi Leaving St Francis, we begin by walking through the residential streets of Garston and Grassendale. This first part of the journey gives us time to settle into the rhythm of pilgrimage. We are still very much surrounded by the city: houses, roads, traffic and the ordinary activity of daily life. That is important. Care for creation is not something confined to spectacular landscapes or remote countryside. Creation is where we live. Our streets, gardens, trees and neighbourhoods are part of our common home too. As we walk, we might begin to notice things that we would normally pass without a second glance: a tree growing beside the pavement, birds overhead, flowers in a garden, or simply the people alongside us.
2. Towards Sudley House The route gradually brings us towards Mossley Hill and the grounds of Sudley House. Here there is a noticeable change in the character of the walk as streets give way to grass, mature trees and open space. Sudley provides a natural opportunity to slow down. The grounds fall away from the houses through gardens and open land, creating a transition between the built environment and the larger landscape of Sefton Park beyond. A walking route through Sudley can lead down towards North Sudley Road and onwards towards Sefton Park.
3. From Sudley into Sefton Park Leaving the Sudley grounds, our pilgrimage continues towards Sefton Park. Crossing into the park marks another change in our surroundings. The noise of the road begins to recede, and we find ourselves among open grassland, mature trees and winding paths. Sefton Park is one of Liverpool’s great historic green spaces. Its landscape was deliberately created with sweeping lawns, curving paths and water, giving the impression of moving through natural countryside within the city. Here, the invitation is simply to notice. Notice the variety of trees. Listen to the birds and the movement of leaves. Look at the changing light
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and sky. Notice the people enjoying the same space in many different ways.
For a pilgrimage concerned with care for creation, this part of the walk reminds us that creation is not merely something to admire. It is something of which we ourselves are a part and for which we share responsibility.
4. Walking around the lake Eventually the path brings us to one of the great features of Sefton Park: its lake. The lake was created by damming two streams and forms a central feature within the park’s landscape. Our route follows the water, giving us perhaps the most reflective section of the pilgrimage. Walking beside water naturally invites us to slow our pace. There is movement everywhere—the surface of the lake, birds on the water, trees reflected in it, people passing along its banks. Rather than rushing through this part of the walk, it is a place to look, listen, and linger. Creation becomes not simply the background to our prayer, but part of the prayer itself.
5. Leaving Sefton Park Having followed the lake and paths through the park, we eventually begin to turn away from the water and make our way towards Mossley Hill. There is something significant about leaving the beauty and spaciousness of the park and returning once more to streets and houses. Christian care for creation cannot remain only an experience enjoyed in beautiful, natural surroundings. What we have noticed must travel home with us.
6. The final path to St Anthony’s Our final stretch takes us through Mossley Hill towards St Anthony of Padua Church on Queens Drive. The destination brings the Franciscan character of the pilgrimage full circle. We began at a church dedicated to St Francis of Assisi and finish at one dedicated to St Anthony of Padua, another of the great Franciscan saints. St Anthony’s is itself served by the Order of Friars Minor Conventual, part of the Franciscan family.
St Francis of Assisi
Deanery Diary The Knowsley Deanery Synodal Council has continued its work of listening, reflecting and planning over the last seven months.
At the heart of our meetings has been an ongoing “Conversation in the Spirit” that has reflected on both the Archdiocesan Synodal Council Summary Report and our ongoing experiences of being in families of parishes.
Reflections have been mixed but honest: the Kirkby family has seen real fruit through joint RCIA work, a shared Lenten Reconciliation Service, and a combined Holy Thursday Mass in Holy Week. In Huyton, collaboration has helped bring parishioners closer together, while Prescot continues to explore ways of strengthening collaboration between clergy and lay representatives.
The DSC was candid that while the idea of a “parish family” feels natural, the wider “Family of Parishes” remains harder to grasp — not least because volunteers, especially in less well-resourced parishes, are already stretched thin. Members also reflected on the challenges of change, recognising that this can be difficult even for those most committed to parish life. Members have considered how the Holy Spirit might be at work precisely in this time of transition and uncertainty. The Council has also been working on practical initiatives. For Lent, it produced a single resource bringing together the Lenten programmes from across the Deanery, helping parishioners discover and participate in opportunities for prayer beyond their own parish. Plans are underway for a Second Deanery Day of Renewal for Ministers of the Word, and the DSC is currently exploring ways of helping our parishes to become more outward-facing. At the time of writing, the Knowsley Deanery is about to engage in the Parish Development Strategy, which will present further opportunities and challenges for the DSC – challenges we can face through listening, discernment and collaboration.
Francis began life as a carefree and privileged youth in Assisi. After falling ill and experiencing visions, he gave up his inheritance and bound himself to God, embracing radical poverty and living the life of the Gospel. In 1209, he gathered followers and received approval from Pope Innocent III to start the Order of Friars Minor, and inspired St Clare of Assisi to co-found an order for women. Francis died two years after receiving the stigmata. He became the Patron Saint of Ecology, and his 800th jubilee is 4 October 2026.
Cathedral education
Spotlights and Headlights Coming over three days meant that each school could have a designated EST teacher, while a lunch venue could also be provided. The children and staff were “amazed by the experience and the amount they learned”. They stood in the choir stalls, read from the altar, enjoyed a bird’s-eye view from the viewing platform, touched the sculptures by Sean Rice and Stephen Foster, and heard urban myths about youngsters sneaking into the Cathedral as it was being built. One of the great joys of the visit was climbing down the ‘secret’ spiral stairs to attend Mass in the crypt. Each child had contributed to a piece of school artwork, which was given as an offering.
Headlights is a space to celebrate the work of the Cathedral’s Education Service Team (EST) as they support and inspire school visits, and are, in turn, inspired by the children and young people they welcome. During the 2025–26 academic year, the EST welcomed 61 schools, supporting 2,790 children and young people as they discovered the rich spirit, fabric and history of our beautiful mother church. A team of 12 teachers, most of them retired, responded to requests from schoolteachers, creating experiences tailored to the needs of each group – from young children exploring ‘special places’ in the city to young people studying Catholicism within a multi-faith society. Each team member brings teaching experience, a love for their faith, and a desire to share that faith with children and young people. Passionate about the ways in which the Cathedral can facilitate learning, joy and wonder, they strive to help visitors see the love of Christ embodied in this holy space. They encourage children’s curiosity and delight in their questions, recognising that learning is a two-way gift. They remain ever curious about how they can enhance each child’s experience. We will learn more about the members of the team over the coming year. Spotlights will focus on some of the people and events that inspire the EST, beginning with a visit that brought together more than 200 children from nine schools. Chris Robson of the EST spoke with Paul Hodges, RE coordinator at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Chorley, part of the Chorley cluster of primary schools. Paul initially wanted to “create a memorable and enriching experience” for his class of 30, but his idea soon blossomed into a plan involving more than 200 children from nine schools across the cluster. Paul hoped that a visit to the Archdiocese of Liverpool’s Cathedral would be “a meaningful opportunity to bring school communities together in a shared experience of faith and learning”.
For the children, it was “their favourite trip of the year”. They could hardly believe that this was a Catholic building, so different from their own church. The experience also helped friendships formed between the schools to develop, rooted in their shared Catholic ethos. For Paul, the visit was part of his search for ways to bring Mass more fully into the lives of his pupils. It took some planning, but he “felt it was worth it to see the look on the children’s faces as they first stepped inside the Cathedral, feeling its calm, peace and tranquillity”. The school was equally enthusiastic about the experience: “It was absolutely brilliant. We cannot thank the Education Team enough for the clear and concise information about the Cathedral and the ease with which we were guided from chapel to chapel, and from Mass, at which we were made so welcome by Fr Hugh, to the Gibberd Room for lunch. It was such an enjoyable day for us all.”
Paul contacted the Cathedral through the Education Service website and sought advice from EST secretary Frank on the best way to organise the visits and ensure the optimum experience for everyone.
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education news
Supporting students and shaping futures There is a real sense of pride at The Academy of St Francis of Assisi in Kensington after the school was named a finalist in this year’s esteemed Educate Awards.
The secondary school has been shortlisted for the Careers & Enterprise Award, recognising its commitment to providing students with high-quality careers advice, guidance and meaningful experiences to help prepare them for life beyond school.
Headteacher, Mrs Teresa Bleasdale, said: “We are thrilled to be shortlisted for this prestigious award. Our careers team work tirelessly to ensure all students receive quality first careers advice, guidance and experiences throughout each year. “Our careers provision is an important part of helping our young people understand the opportunities available to them, develop their skills and make informed decisions about their futures.” As part of All Saints Multi Academy Trust, the academy also has access to dedicated careers support, helping to strengthen
employer links and provide students with a wide range of opportunities.
Caroline Swarbrick, trust careers and employability manager, added: “It has been wonderful to see the careers programme at The Academy of St Francis of Assisi develop and flourish. Our employer partnerships form a substantial part of our offer, and we are incredibly grateful to all the employers and partner volunteers who have contributed their time, expertise and effort to our school and students. “Giving young people good quality careers provision which breaks down barriers, motivates, inspires and develops skills for the working world, alongside the ‘right’ guidance and support, changes lives.
“We are super excited and honoured to be shortlisted – for me, it’s the icing on the cake!”
St Mary’s celebrates recognition of much-loved teacher St Mary’s Catholic Infant and Junior Academies in Newton-le-Willows are celebrating Year 3 teacher, Mrs Nicola Follin, who has been shortlisted for Teacher of the Year at this year’s prestigious Educate Awards. The award recognises inspirational teachers who make an outstanding contribution to the lives of their pupils, schools and wider communities.
For Nicola, being shortlisted is a deeply meaningful achievement and one she says she shares with the whole St Mary’s and All Saints Multi Academy Trust community, of which it is a proud member. “Being shortlisted for Teacher of the Year is very humbling. I love teaching, and there really is no better job in the world than being in a classroom,” she said. “It is a real honour, not just for me but for our whole school community. The staff team at St Mary’s really are phenomenal and being shortlisted really is a proud moment for all of us.” The recognition comes after an incredibly difficult period in Nicola’s personal life. Just over two years ago, her husband died suddenly from pancreatic cancer.
She said: “During the most difficult period of my life, being in the classroom gave me purpose, routine, comfort and the opportunity to be creative. The children I teach have been instrumental in my journey, often bringing smiles, laughter and joy on days when I needed them most.” St Mary’s has also played a significant role in supporting Nicola and her family.
“St Mary’s has always been far more than just a workplace to me. It is where I met and married my husband and it has been a constant source of support, kindness and strength,” she said.
Since the passing of her husband, Nicola, her family, and the school have also worked to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer and support Pancreatic Cancer UK. For Nicola, the nomination is about much more than an individual accolade. She shared:
“Winning would be a tremendous honour and would mean the world to me. It would be a celebration of the incredible support I have received from St Mary’s and a testament to the special relationships I have built with the children and families I have had the privilege to work with throughout my career. It would also be a reminder that even through life’s greatest challenges, kindness, community and purpose can help us find a way forward.” The winners will be announced at the Educate Awards ceremony on Friday 13 November.
Executive headteacher, Mrs Samantha Birchall, commented: “We are absolutely delighted to see Nicola recognised in this year’s Educate Awards. She is an exceptionally valued member of our school community, and her unwavering commitment to our children, families, and both our infant and junior academies is evident in everything she does. This recognition is thoroughly deserved, and we are incredibly proud of her achievement.” 20
Catholic Pictorial
education news
Hands that serve The new academic year at Carmel College began with a moment of prayerful unity as staff and students gathered for the first Mass. It was a fitting way to open the term, grounding the community in faith, fellowship and the values that shape life at Carmel College. During the celebration, Fr Dominic Risley, parish priest of Our Lady Immaculate RC Church in Prescot, offered a Blessing of Hands to staff. This simple yet profound gesture acknowledged the many ways hands are used throughout the year: to welcome, support, guide, encourage and care for one another. It was a reminder that the work carried out each day is, in its own way, an act of service.
The blessing inspired a new display within the chaplaincy. Staff were invited to draw around their hands and add them to a growing collection. Each handprint is unique, just as each member of the Carmel community brings their own gifts and experiences. Together, they form a visual expression of the shared responsibility each person holds in building up the life of the college. Alongside the display are the words of St Teresa of Avila, a guiding figure in Carmelite spirituality: “Christ has no body now on earth but yours. No hands but yours.” These words feel especially resonant at the beginning of a new academic year, reminding both staff and students that faith is lived not only in prayer, but in the everyday actions through which we serve others.
The Blessing of Hands offered a moment to pause and recognise the quiet, faithful work that takes place across the college each day. As the handprints continue to grow, they stand as a gentle reminder that Catholic Life is something we create together.
Celebrating excellence across SJCMAT St Joseph Multi Academy Trust (SJCMAT) is delighted to have had two of its academies, one member of staff and the trust itself named as finalists in this year’s renowned Educate Awards. St Cuthbert’s Catholic Academy has been shortlisted for the Careers & Enterprise Award, which recognises schools that are successfully preparing young people for future careers and encouraging enterprise through a range of unique opportunities.
Mr Stuart Holland, headteacher of St Cuthbert’s, said: “We are thrilled to have been shortlisted for this award. Our commitment to supporting our students with their next steps, helping them prepare for their futures and providing opportunities for every young person to live life in all its fullness continues to grow stronger.”
St Francis Xavier’s Catholic Academy (SFX) has been shortlisted in the Outstanding Commitment to STEM category.
Headteacher of SFX, Mr David Hayes, commented: “We are passionate about giving our students opportunities to explore STEM in different ways and helping them understand where these subjects can take them. Our staff do a brilliant job of bringing this to life and encouraging students to get involved, ask questions and try new things.” At Notre Dame Catholic Academy, Miss Lynsey Disley has been nominated for School Support Star of the Year. The award recognises the vital contribution made by support staff who go above and beyond to make a difference to students, colleagues and their wider school communities.
Learning support assistant, Miss Disley, shared: “I was genuinely surprised and honoured to be nominated, and it was a wonderful
recognition. It has been especially meaningful to know that the impact of my work has been noticed.”
Finally, SJCMAT has been shortlisted for Most Inspirational Multi Academy Trust. Mr Andrew Truby, CEO of the trust, said: “We are incredibly proud to see St Joseph Multi Academy Trust shortlisted for Most Inspirational Multi Academy Trust. It is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the collective work of our academies, our staff and our wider school communities, and the difference we strive to make for children and young people every day.” The winners will be announced at the Educate Awards ceremony on Friday 13 November, taking place at the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral.
education news
St Basil’s creates the first Mission Together Club St Basil’s Primary School in Widnes has become the first school in the country to launch a Mission Together Club.
St Basil’s Mission Together Club was established by RE coordinator, Mrs Kate Dooley, who was inspired by a desire to strengthen pupils’ understanding of their place in God’s global family, and of our collective mission to share Christ’s love around the world through prayer, solidarity, and generosity.
new mascot, Missio Mouse. The mascot serves as a reminder that even small actions can make a big difference – just as each of them can play a meaningful part in God’s mission. Mission Together also delivers assemblies in schools. For more information, please visit MissionTogether.org.uk or email claire@missio.org.uk.
Prior to establishing the club, Mrs Dooley contacted Mission Together to discuss her ideas. Mission Together is the children’s branch of Missio – the Catholic Church’s official charity for overseas mission. Its aim is two-fold: to support lifegiving children’s projects in places of poverty and turmoil, and to support the mission of Catholic education in England and Wales by providing free educational and worship resources.
Claire Colleran, Mission Together’s education outreach officer, was delighted to help. She said: “The support of schools across England and Wales helps Mission Together reach more than 20,000 children living in poverty around the world, but St Basil’s has taken this support one step further. Their efforts are helping pupils live out Catholic social teaching and grow in understanding of their mission to share Christ’s love and mercy with everyone, everywhere.”
As well as signposting several of their free worship and activity ideas, Mission Together posted a pack of posters, prayer cards, and stickers to St Basil’s, and also arranged a visit to one of the club’s after-school meetings. In recognition of their efforts, members of St Basil’s Mission Together Club were then presented with Mission Together’s
St Francis de Sales pupils welcome Her Majesty to Walton St Francis de Sales Catholic Infant and Nursery School in Walton was invited to meet Her Majesty the Queen during her visit to Spellow Community Hub and Library on 4 September.
Her Majesty came to see the progress made at the library since its destruction during the riots of 2024, and she kindly donated a collection of books to help inspire a love of reading within the local community. The Spellow Hub, once devastated by fire and water damage during the riots, has since been restored through community effort, including donations from local residents, authors such as Frank Cottrell Boyce, and public figures like Nigella Lawson. A GoFundMe campaign also raised £250,000, helping the library reopen in December 2024 as a vibrant centre of learning, support and hope.
During her visit, The Queen met staff and pupils from St Francis de Sales who were thrilled to greet Her Majesty. Pupils even invited her to join them for a game of chess, which she warmly accepted. It was a joyful moment that captured the spirit of the day. The Queen listened to a poem about Spellow Hub written by Frank Cottrell Boyce, celebrating the library as a place where imagination, belonging and resilience come together. Local leaders spoke of the hub as a symbol of unity – a reminder of what can be achieved when communities stand together.
This will be a wonderful memory for the young people of St Francis de Sales Catholic Infant and Nursery School, and what a fantastic way to celebrate the joy and importance of reading. The visit offered a powerful reminder that books help children dream bigger, feel connected and discover hope, and that places like Spellow Hub remain at the heart of community life. 22
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The recent visit of Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendía, the Apostolic Nuncio, to St Mary’s, Leyland, for our Catholic Education celebration was a joyful reminder of the strength of Catholic education across our archdiocese. Centred on the theme “A Family in Christ”, the day gave us an opportunity to reflect on what that means in practice. To be a family in Christ is about more than belonging to the same Church. It means supporting one another, sharing a common purpose and recognising that we are stronger when we work together. This was captured beautifully in the Irish phrase Ní neart go cur le chéile – “There is no strength without unity.” That message feels particularly important at a time when schools face many challenges. Across our archdiocese, there is also a great deal to celebrate. Every day, our schools help children and young people to grow academically, spiritually and personally. At the heart of Catholic education is the belief that every young person is known and loved by God, and that our schools should help them recognise their dignity, their gifts, and their purpose. The celebration at St Mary’s brought that mission to life. Children and young people from schools across Lancashire played a central part in the liturgy; reading, serving, singing, and assisting throughout the Mass. Their confidence, reverence, and enthusiasm were a wonderful witness to the life of our Catholic schools. A particular highlight was the contribution of our schools singing programme, led by Danny Townley. The music added greatly to the celebration and showed just how much talent there is within our school communities. The children led the congregation with real joy and prayerfulness. It was a reminder that young people are not simply the future of the Church; they are already an important part of its life today. It was also significant that representatives from school governing bodies were invited to present the gifts at the Offertory. Governors give generously of their time in support of our schools, often quietly and without recognition. Their role in supporting and guiding Catholic education is invaluable, and it was fitting that their contribution was acknowledged during the celebration. During the Mass, the Apostolic Nuncio was presented with a lectern bearing the words “A Family in Christ”. It was a simple but meaningful symbol of the day and of the relationship between our schools. Each school has its own character, traditions, and strengths, but all are part of something larger. That sense of communion lies at the heart of Catholic education. Our schools do not exist in isolation. They are part of parishes, families and communities, and part of the wider life of the Church. When we share what is good, support one another in difficulty, and learn from one another, the whole family is strengthened. As we reflect on the Nuncio’s visit, we give thanks for everyone who contributes to Catholic education across the archdiocese: staff, governors, clergy, families and, above all, our children and young people. May we continue to live out the spirit of Ní neart go cur le chéile, remembering that there is no strength without unity and that, together, we truly are a family in Christ. Joan McCarthy Director of Education
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Celebrating student voice at St John Bosco Arts College St John Bosco Arts College, Croxteth, has been shortlisted for the Most Impactful Communications Award, sponsored by CPMM Media Group, at this year’s Educate Awards.
Announced on Wednesday 16 September, the school’s inclusion in the 2026 shortlist marks the second consecutive year of being named finalists in the category, which recognises schools and colleges that have demonstrated exceptional use of communications to achieve a high level of stakeholder engagement. Since 2024 and the introduction of a new communications manager, St John Bosco has redefined its communications, launching a dynamic, multi-channel strategy which blends digital innovation with student-led content and proactive outreach. Ms Shirine Nujjoo, communications manager at St John Bosco Arts College, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have been shortlisted for a second year running in the Most Impactful Communications Award category at Educate Awards.
“In the last year alone, we have seen strong stakeholder engagement from current and prospective families. This success is testament to our proactive media relations and social media strategy, supported by our wonderful student editorial team.”
St John Bosco’s student editorial team is made up of 10 committed students, who work with staff and classmates across the school to plan and produce authentic, student-led and community-driven content. Led by Shirine, the student editorial team has supported and shaped St John Bosco’s communications strategy, while giving students the opportunity to learn vital, transferable skills for their future careers.
Commenting on the shortlist announcement, student editor, Sairah, said: “I feel extremely proud of the team and I’m so glad to have another chance to win!” Fellow student editor, Darcie, added: “I love this team and how much we can accomplish when we work together.” St John Bosco Arts College’s headteacher, Mr Gidman, said: “On behalf of the entire St John Bosco Arts College community, I would like to congratulate Shirine and the student editorial team on being shortlisted, once again, for the Most Impactful Communications Award. Being named finalists is a fantastic achievement in itself, and we’re now looking forward to discovering if they’re crowned winners at the awards ceremony in November.”
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Educate Awards 2026 shortlist highlights strength of Catholic education in Liverpool The Archdiocese of Liverpool is celebrating as a strong cohort of Catholic schools have been named in the Educate Awards 2026 shortlist. 14 different Catholic schools within the archdiocese have secured 17 finalist places across 11 categories this year.
The shortlist showcases the breadth of excellence across Catholic education, from communications and careers to STEM, the arts, sport and inspirational leadership. It marks a moment of pride for school communities who continue to place faith, service and high quality education at the heart of their mission. All shortlisted schools will come together on Friday 13 November, for an unforgettable evening of celebration at the iconic Liverpool Cathedral, marking the fifteenth anniversary of the Educate Awards. Nurseries, schools, colleges and trusts from across the North West will create a joyful gathering that honours the very best of education in our region. One judge reflected on the impact of this year’s entries, saying: “There is such great work going on in schools and it’s so heartening to see how much they do for students and how deeply they care about young people. I’m so glad they get recognised in this way.” Catholic finalists from the archdiocese include: Most Impactful Communications Award Carmel College, St Helens St John Bosco Arts College, Liverpool Careers & Enterprise Award Cardinal Heenan Catholic High School, Liverpool St Cuthbert’s Catholic Academy, St Helens The Academy of St Francis of Assisi, Liverpool School Library of the Year St Gregory’s RC High School, Warrington St Mary’s College Preparatory School, Sefton Outstanding Commitment to STEM St Francis Xavier’s Catholic Academy, Liverpool Outstanding Arts in Secondary School Sacred Heart Catholic Academy, Sefton St Mary’s Catholic College, Wirral Outstanding Commitment to Sport in Secondary School Archbishop Blanch School, Liverpool Teacher of the Year Nicola Follin - St Mary’s Catholic Infant and Junior Academy, St Helens School Support Star of the Year Lynsey Disley - Notre Dame Catholic Academy, Liverpool Most Inspirational Multi Academy Trust St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust, Liverpool Most Inspirational Sixth Form & College Cardinal Heenan Catholic High School, Liverpool Most Inspirational Primary School Ss Peter and Paul Catholic Primary School, Wirral
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Catholic schools from Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Wirral, Sefton and Lancashire have also been shortlisted this year, demonstrating the wider impact and importance of Catholic education across the North West. Their achievements highlight the shared commitment to nurturing young people in faith, learning and service.
Celebrating its fifteenth year, Educate Awards 2026 features 21 categories recognising every aspect of school life. The awards shine a spotlight on the exceptional teachers and inspirational support staff whose dedication continues to transform lives and strengthen communities.
Kim O’Brien, founder of Educate Awards, said: “Congratulations to all the nurseries, schools, colleges and multi academy trusts who have been shortlisted this year. Once again, our esteemed panel of judges have been blown away by the quality of entries – and, more importantly, by the incredible and inspirational work taking place across the region.” She added: “Selecting the shortlist has been no mean feat, and we are now looking forward to celebrating with every finalist as we roll out our iconic red carpet in November for an awards ceremony befitting our fifteenth anniversary.” Joan McCarthy, director of education for the Archdiocese of Liverpool, said: “I am delighted to see so many schools, colleges and Catholic multi academy trusts from across the Archdiocese of Liverpool recognised in the Educate Awards 2026 shortlist. This achievement reflects the dedication, talent and commitment of our pupils, staff, governors and leaders, who work tirelessly each day to provide the highest quality of Catholic education. I offer my congratulations to all those shortlisted and wish them every success in the awards.” Finalists can look forward to an unforgettable evening of celebration later this year, including live performances, a three course gala dinner, and the all important awards ceremony where this year’s winners will be revealed. Associate sponsors of Educate Awards 2026 include: All About Futures, Angel Solutions, Apprenticeships at Liverpool Hope University, Carpe Diem Education Consultants UK, CER Education, CPMM Media Group, Frank Field Education Trust, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Careers Hub, Liverpool John Moore’s University, Liverpool School Sports Partnership, Portakabin, Satis Education and SENDSCOPE.
youth ministry
Tweet others the way you want to be tweeted This is an article not about young people, but for young people and young adults - and the young at heart – so if you’re over 35 you’re still allowed to read it!
My mum told me that when she was a child in the 1950s, her father resisted buying a television set, as he thought it was the way that the devil would get into the house. No doubt when the internet became widely available there were people who suspected the same. And to some degree they’d be right. When we enter the web, there’s the potential to see all kinds of evil. I don’t want to dwell too long on what this means. Evil gets enough airtime.
So older people are right to be concerned about the influence of the internet, especially after the pandemic drove so many young people to become deeply immersed in the digital universe, which for many of you has been a part of your reality for your whole lives. The question is how to engage with the internet in a way that is positive. Like most things in life, like money, power, relationships, etc. the internet is neutral – it’s how you use it that makes it good or bad. When a fire is in the fireplace, it can warm the home, but when it gets out of the fireplace it can burn the house down – another of my Irish grandparents’ sayings.
Glaucon, a character in Plato’s Republic, argues that both good and bad people would do evil if they knew they would never get caught. A cynical attitude maybe, but there are too many keyboard warriors, hiding behind their screens, who have been spitting bile all over the internet which only increases hatred, an ever-spiralling negative algorithm, which has had some awful consequences in the “real” world. We could reject social media altogether and become digital Luddites, avoiding the hate-and-rage-filled bin-fires that places like Twitter have become. Or we can show courage and embrace the ‘net, so that we don’t lose the valuable opportunity to engage with the world and redress the balance, offering positive and loving messages, fostering friendship and peace.
We are encouraged to use technology for social and political engagement and active citizenship. The knowledge the internet brings can make us more aware of what is going on in the world and therefore enable us to take action and make a difference. “The web and social networks… provide an extraordinary opportunity for dialogue, encounter, and exchange between persons, as well as access to information and knowledge.” Christus Vivit Pope Francis
But there are warnings too, against fostering division and sharing misinformation. We also need to be critically aware of how the internet uses the information we feed it – how algorithms and commercial interests shape of our online experience and manipulate our timelines for benefits that are not necessarily ours. It’s also essential to take breaks from being online. We know it is designed to give us dopamine hits and keep us scrolling, but we need to be present in person, in real life, and with those who are closest to us.
Be honest – how long do you really spend on the internet? Is it lifegiving or does it make you question yourself, your looks, your ideas, in a negative way? Are you giving your friends and family the attention they deserve? Can you use the web for positive things like prayer and learning about your faith? The internet is a tool, not a master.
May all your algorithms be good ones! If you’re under 18, follow us on @catholicyouthliverpool
If you are 18+ you can follow us on the Catholic Young Adults Liverpool account
If the internet is the place where people interact, share experiences and build relationships, then that is where we should be also, spreading the Christian message. As in the real world, this is how we overcome the darkness.
Towards Full Presence is a Vatican report which reflects on social media and urges Christians to be “Good Samaritans” online, acting as ‘“loving neighbours” who are genuinely present and attentive to each other on our common journey along the “digital highways”.’
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Mums the Word I always enjoy October, as it is the month of the Holy Rosary. Many of us pray the rosary daily and always carry a rosary with us. The rosary is the product of centuries of Christian prayer traditions, evolving from simple counting tools into a meditative devotion central to Catholic spirituality.
The rosary has a long history. Our Lady is said to have appeared to St Dominic and given him a rosary to help combat heresy. That was in the 13th century. Three hundred years later, in 1569, Pope Pius V officially established the rosary’s structure in the Catholic Church. Whenever I am in need of prayers for daily difficulties, the first thing I do is pray the rosary. It is very comforting, and prayers are always answered in one way or another. So many saints are pictured holding the rosary. Our Lady of Lourdes and St Bernadette always have their rosaries and they prayed together. Our newest saint, St Carlos Acutis, loved to pray the rosary, and he had such a love of the Virgin Mary. He encouraged his friends to join him and went on to digital media to promote the devotion.
Therefore, ladies, I ask you to please pray the rosary during this special month to Our Lady, who loves us and will always watch over us. In my church of St Margaret Mary, we have a rosary group that meets every Tuesday night to pray. Maybe you could start one in your church. Finally, our next business meeting is on 17 October in the Gibberd Room at the Metropolitan Cathedral. The next bi-monthly Mass is at St Mary Queen of Apostles (St Richard’s) on 4 November. I look forward to seeing you then. Maureen Finnegan, Archdiocesan vice-president
Over a century of service News from the Liverpool Province of the Knights of St Columba
Human dignity at the heart of public life A strong message comes from Scotland where Bishop John Keenan, president of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, has urged the Scottish government to place human dignity and the common good at the centre of its programme. His statement calls for particular attention to the poor, vulnerable and marginalised while reaffirming the Church’s commitment to the sanctity of life, support for families, care for migrants and protection of freedom of conscience and religion.
Faith in Action The KSC continue our support for the Alma Mater Fund, an initiative helping pregnant university students to continue their studies while caring for their children. Meanwhile, the Jesuit Refugee Service UK has renewed its call for a more humane asylum system, emphasising dignity, protection and a warm welcome for those seeking sanctuary
Investing in young Catholics An encouraging report comes from the Knights’ public speaking contest, where students reflected on the theme of ‘Faith in the Digital Domain’. Participants explored whether online identities and social media can hinder authentic human flourishing. The discussion echoed concerns raised in the teaching of Pope Leo XIV regarding the ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence and modern technology.
Celebrating milestones Congratulations to the brothers of Province 12, Southwark, and Council 151, Medway, both of whom recently celebrated their centenaries. Such milestones are a testament to the enduring spirit of charity, unity and fraternity that has sustained the order for more than a century.
Knights explore university link-up An informal meeting, chaired by Mark Thompson, our grand knight, was held at the Liverpool Athenaeum on 20 August to explore interest in establishing a new council associated with Liverpool University. Prior to the meeting, visitors received a tour of the historic building, including an introduction to its impressive collection of religious books, some dating back more than 300 years. Brother Mark reported that the meeting was highly successful, with those present expressing strong enthusiasm for a council linked to the university. We ask for your prayers as this exciting initiative progresses.
Dates for the diary Supreme Council 2026 From 4 to 6 October, Liverpool province will be proudly hosting the Supreme Council Meeting at the Liner Hotel in the city centre. We look forward to welcoming delegates from across the order and showcasing the warmth and hospitality for which Liverpool is renowned. If you would like to learn more about the KSC or visit your local council, please email me at Philonline2@btinternet.com. Phil Woods, Provincial Grand Knight - Province 2 Website: www.ksc.org.uk Facebook: The Knights of St Columba Instagram: @knightsofstcolumba
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Dialogue and Unity
A Papal visit from the Nuncio By Ultan Russell, Archdiocesan ecumenical officer
We have recently experienced a fruitful, fascinating and frenetic visit to the Archdiocese of Liverpool by the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendia.
As diocesan ecumenical officer, I attended the afternoon tea and evensong at our sister cathedral that formed part of his stay. The dean, the Very Revd Dr Sue Jones, emphasised that it was probably unique to have a major part of a nuncio’s visit held at an Anglican cathedral. It was not his first visit - most recently, he also visited Liverpool Cathedral on his 2024 visit to the city, when Professor Gerald Pillay of Liverpool Hope University was awarded a papal knighthood. The nuncio spoke of the unique ecumenical collaboration in Liverpool which he had first become aware of on a visit 40 years ago. Civic leaders along with Church leaders were in attendance and they heard a presentation on the ‘Hope manifesto’ by the Revd Phil Jump, copresident of Churches Together in the Merseyside Region, underlining the support given to the manifesto – including from Liverpool City Council and Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region.
Meanwhile, the challenge to care for all, to fight for justice and combat prejudice, was echoed in Archbishop John Sherrington’s address, and that too was a key strand running through the nuncio’s visit. Week of Prayer for Christian Unity ‘Do not be afraid’ is the theme of the prayers and reflections for next year’s Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. As is customary, this is planned jointly by the Vatican and the World Council of Churches and delegated to representatives of the churches in Ireland. In conversation, several people who spoke to me assumed that the British-based nuncio – whose official title is ‘Apostolic Nuncio to the Court of St James’s’ – would cover Northern Ireland. Yet even though Ireland contains two political entities, all the churches cover the whole of Ireland, so there is a nuncio in Dublin. As here on Merseyside, the leaders of the Churches meet regularly and have the same commitment and concern for everyone in the communities that they serve.
To quote the preparatory material: “Jesus is our Good Shepherd, the one who can be trusted to lead us on the good path of life towards
lifegiving waters of abundance. As the Good Shepherd, Jesus models sacrificial leadership that moves towards the one sheep that has lost its way. In Luke 12:22-34, Jesus calls his followers out of fear and towards this life of radical trust, vigilant hope and responsible service. These teachings aren’t meant for lone disciples but for a gathered community: a ‘little flock’ called to live, pray and work together. This year’s Week of Prayer for Christian Unity invites us to explore what it means to be followers of the Good Shepherd: how letting go of fear and keeping watchful hearts become powerful catalysts for reconciliation and shared witness.”
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is normally observed between 18 and 25 January, but here in Liverpool, since the visit of Pope John Paul II, there has been an emphasis on the Two Cathedrals Pentecost Walk, so put that in your diaries too. With the often-bad January weather, there tend to be fewer united services than previously. If there is not one in your area, then consider the following: • Sending prayers and greetings to your neighbouring churches; • Praying for neighbouring churches in bidding prayers by name; • Using prayers from the Unity Week material in parish groupings (UCM, J&P, Youth etc) and in our schools. Finally, here is a prayer taken from the Unity Week materials, inspired by the story of St Brendan the Navigator (c. 484-577): “Help me to journey beyond the familiar and into the unknown. Give me the faith to leave old ways and break fresh ground with you. Christ of the mysteries, I trust you to be stronger than each storm within me. I will trust in the darkness and know that my times, even now, are in your hand. Tune my spirit to the music of heaven, and somehow, make my obedience count for you. Amen.”
Download the materials from Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2027: ctbi.org.uk/resources/week-of-prayer-for-christianunity-2027
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Light Up a Life: Remembering loved ones this Christmas As Christmas approaches, we are reminded of the people who have touched our lives and who are no longer with us. For many, the festive season can be a time of both joy and remembrance.
through Light Up a Life support Nugent’s work with children, young people, adults and families across our communities, helping people facing challenging times to access care, support and opportunities.
This year, services will take place in Leyland and Liverpool, bringing people together in prayer, remembrance and community.
To find out more or make a dedication, visit Nugent’s Light Up a Life webpage - wearenugent.org/event/light-up-a-life-2026
Nugent’s annual Light Up a Life services offer an opportunity to come together, pause and reflect, and celebrate the lives of those we hold dear.
The Leyland service will take place at 6pm on Wednesday 25 November at St Mary’s Church, Leyland, followed by light refreshments and a craft fair in the community hall.
Whether you are able to join us in person or would like to make a dedication from home, Light Up a Life is a chance to remember with love, reflect with others and help make a difference to lives today.
or contact the Fundraising Team on 0151 261 2000 or fundraising@ wearenugent.org.
In Liverpool, the Light Up a Life service will take place at 12 noon on Thursday 3 December at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King. As part of Light Up a Life, families and friends can also dedicate a star in memory of someone special, for a suggested donation of £5 per name. A personal message can be added to a star on Nugent’s Remembrance Tree, while dedications can also be included in the service liturgy and dedication book.
The services provide a special moment to remember those we have lost, while also helping to bring hope to others. Donations made
Walking Together: Reflections from Lourdes
This year, I had the privilege of joining the Liverpool Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes. It was an experience that I will remember for a very long time.
The pilgrimage brought together thousands of people from across the archdiocese for a week of faith, reflection, service, and community. This year was particularly special, marking the 103rd archdiocesan pilgrimage and 50 years of the youth pilgrimage milestones that speak to generations of people coming together in faith, friendship, and service. What struck me most throughout the week was the sense of community. Everywhere I went, I met people with different stories, experiences, and reasons for being in Lourdes. I had the opportunity to listen, to learn and to share conversations with people I may otherwise never have met.
There were also many quiet moments that stayed with me. Acts of kindness, people looking out for one another, and the courage of those facing significant challenges were reminders of the strength that can be found when we come together. Being in Lourdes also gave me time to reflect on what it means to lead an organisation like Nugent. Leadership is not simply about making decisions or setting direction. It is about being present, listening and, above all, never losing sight of the person at the heart of every decision.
That is something I see every day in Nugent’s work. Whether supporting a child, a young person, an adult, or a family, our work 30
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is fundamentally about people - their dignity, their hopes, their challenges and their potential. Lourdes reminded me that we never walk alone, and sometimes the greatest gift we can offer another person is simply to walk beside them. One of the highlights of the pilgrimage was hearing Archbishop Sherrington speak about Imagine Our World during the closing Mass. Hearing Nugent’s vision spoken about in Lourdes was particularly meaningful to me. Our vision is rooted in creating a world where people can flourish, and the values of dignity, hope, compassion and service that underpin our work felt especially present throughout the pilgrimage.
The pilgrimage also reinforced the importance of being there for one another. Whether through practical support, a listening ear, or simply being present, small acts of compassion can make a real difference. These are values I hope we continue to live every day at Nugent - creating pathways of support and helping the people and communities we work with to flourish.
Jo Henney
Chief Executive Officer Nugent
Ignite your inner spark
Join us at our
Sixth Form Open Evening Thursday 12 November 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Discover our thriving sixth form community, where students are inspired to explore their passions and supported to achieve exceptional progress.
stjohnboscoartscollege.com/sixth-form sjbliverpool
sjbsixthform