Catholic Pic September 2023

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From the Vicar General’s Desk

During these late days of summer, Archbishop Malcolm is enjoying a well-earned rest. So, it falls to me to sit at his desk, albeit temporarily.

As I write, we have been celebrating the Solemnity of the Assumption, the great Marian feast that crowns the middle of August. It reminds me of the great blessing of the recent centenary pilgrimage to Lourdes, something that you can read about in this month’s edition. The annual pilgrimage is a highlight of the calendar for many people. This year’s pilgrimage seemed a fitting high point for Mgr. Des Seddon to bow out as director of the pilgrimage, a role he has fulfilled with such great generosity over many years.

Over the summer, the corridors and classrooms of our schools have been largely free of the voices and footsteps of youngsters. Repairs and refurbishment have been the order of the day in some schools, and all those other housekeeping tasks that cannot easily be done in term time. For two days, at least, our high schools have resounded to excited chatter as another cohort of students learn their A level and GCSE results. Many congratulations to all those who have passed their exams, and to their teachers. You can read about some of the notable successes in this issue. As we enter the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness, another academic year begins in our schools. May God bless all students and staff, especially those who are starting at new schools this term.

Canon Aidan Prescott Vicar General

Monthly prayer intentions

intentions entrusted to his worldwide prayer network for the year 2023:

people living on the margins

Let

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A topilgrimage remember

by Simon Hart

This year’s Liverpool Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes was a landmark occasion. Held between 21 and 28 July, it came 100 years after the first official pilgrimage from this diocese. Equally, 100 years had passed since the miraculous cure of Jack Traynor on that inaugural pilgrimage.

Running like a thread through this centenary pilgrimage was the message that Lourdes remains a special place for assisted pilgrims. ‘The heart of our pilgrimage’ is how Archbishop Malcolm McMahon described them. One assisted pilgrim, David, in one of the reflections published daily on social media during the week in Lourdes, affirmed the significance of this as he said: ‘If everywhere had what Lourdes has got, I think people would love to live.’

Love is the word. During his homily at the Grotto Mass on Sunday 23 July, Archbishop Malcolm spoke of Saint Matthew’s Gospel as ‘a Gospel of encounter and love’ and he added: ‘Lourdes gives us the opportunity to live this Gospel of love and to experience its fruits.

‘We can experience the joy of God’s people in the great liturgies and see the face of the Lord in the assisted pilgrims, in each other and deep in our hearts. We’re all worthy to encounter the Lord. It is not reserved for a few good people.’

According to Father Grant Maddock, a highlight of that Mass was the Archbishop’s blessing of 54 new wheelchairs donated to the Archdiocese for the assisted pilgrims. He said: ‘I was profoundly moved watching him extend his arms over those people and those chairs, dedicated in memory of loved ones or on behalf of loved ones, and seeing the difference those chairs were making because of the generosity of the people who’d donated them.’

Father Grant, whose appointment as the new director of the pilgrimage was confirmed at the week’s end, added: ‘This year’s pilgrimage really celebrated the identity of our assisted pilgrims. Every year does but you could see people were renewed in their service and their love of those who are frail among us.

‘With the additional times of prayer, times to light candles and the trip they made to Hosanna House, it all showed once more that our assisted pilgrims are the jewel in our crown and give us an opportunity to learn what it really means to love by the privilege they give us of serving them.’

Centenary celebration

This year’s pilgrimage included specific moments to mark the centenary with Jack Traynor remembered at a Mass at the Rosary Basilica on Tuesday 25 July – the 100th anniversary of his

The 2023 Liverpool

Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes was a celebration of not just 100 years of the pilgrimage but also the special status of its assisted pilgrims.

‘Lourdes was described by a friend as a thin space –an area where we feel closer to God, and it feels easier to connect with your faith.’

Charlie, Youth coach 6

miraculous cure from injuries sustained during World War One.

A centenary party took place on the roof of the Saint-Frai hospital on the last night. Father Grant said he saw ‘people who’d not been able to come to Lourdes for years’. And for all the rain that fell during the week, nothing could dampen the mood. There was even a distant relative of Jack Traynor in Lourdes at the same time, visiting with Lancaster Diocese.

To mark Liverpool’s milestone, BBC Radio 4 included the reflections of several youth pilgrims on its ‘Sunday’ programme on 30 July. John and Kathryn Wilson, staff members on Coach 5, also featured and told the presenter, Ed Stourton, of their first encounters in Lourdes in 1989 and 1991 and how they met again there in 2015 and married nine months later. ‘We really felt we had to keep going to give something back as we’d been so lucky,’ Kathryn said.

Another ‘Lourdes marriage’ is in the making, meanwhile, after Stephen O’Driscoll and Emily Crompton, two members of the Saint-Bernadette team who had first met as youth pilgrims, got engaged after Stephen proposed as they lit candles in the Grotto.

For the youth pilgrims, an online treasure hunt through Lourdes offered the chance to learn about the history of the pilgrimage. Another nod to history came in their final liturgy, as Father Simon Gore, director of the Youth Pilgrimage, explained: ‘Each

coach was given a song or hymn going back to the beginning of the Youth Pilgrimage. Coach 1 had the oldest song, ‘Sing it in the Valleys’. We had a medley at the end with everyone stood on benches, doing different actions to the songs.’

There were 350 on the Youth Pilgrimage and on Lourdes’ ongoing lure for young people, Fr Simon added: ‘If it was just about helping the sick and elderly then it would only appeal to the type of person who wants to help people. Likewise if it was only about Masses and prayer time, or about the social time. Instead, it’s a combination of those different things – about service and giving of yourself; about having some quiet time to reflect on who you are and who you want to be; and also about having time with your mates and meeting new people. A combination of those things attracts people and brings them back.’

Pride in the pilgrimage

At the Thanksgiving Service on Thursday 27 July, the last full day in Lourdes, Archbishop Malcolm declared how proud he was to be part of the pilgrimage. He also announced that the pilgrimage had a new director in Fr Grant with Monsignor Des Seddon stepping down from the role. ‘I’d like to thank Mgr Des for all he has done for the pilgrimage and my thanks to Fr Grant for agreeing to this appointment,’ said Archbishop Malcolm.

Fr Grant said he was ‘incredibly humbled to take on the role’ and that he was grateful

for the ‘continuity’ that will come from having his two immediate predecessors, Mgr Des and Mgr John Butchard, on the pilgrimage’s executive committee. ‘To be pilgrimage director but have two others who’ve been in that role working alongside me for the good of the entire pilgrimage is a complete blessing.’

Reflecting on the 2023 pilgrimage overall, Archbishop Malcolm concluded: ‘I’m sure we all have treasured the week in Lourdes, or at home through our social media, with incredible memories to cherish and experiences to build upon. Long may we make it possible for our assisted pilgrims to be the heart of our pilgrimage.

‘I would like to thank all those involved in organising our centenary Lourdes pilgrimage and those who had a role in helping to lead or support one of the various pilgrim groups, ministries and events which took place. I had so much positive feedback from so many pilgrims, to say how inspired they were by the events of the week, but also how moved and inspired they were by the story of Jack Traynor, the closeness they felt to Our Lady and St Bernadette, and I know many friendships were formed and renewed during our time together. It truly was a prayerful and celebratory atmosphere.’

• A Lourdes reunion Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 10 September at 5pm at St Mary’s Lowe House, St Helens.

‘My favourite part is getting to know the assisted pilgrims by pushing them to Mass and spending time with them shopping and in the cafes. I love seeing how everyone comes together and everyone is willing to help each other.’

Elizabeth Pederson (Coach 1)

‘This is my fifth pilgrimage and it’s very special to me. It has helped me regain my faith during difficult times. I’ve been able to serve and look after others and, through this experience, I’ve discovered my vocation for nursing.’

Triona Kelly (Coach 9)

Lourdes, through the eyes of the Liverpool Youth

On a liturgical note

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 the year in many parts of our archdiocese, there will be harvest festivals in our churches and our schools and we express thanks for and recognise that which 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 the 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 harvest festival, and when we respond to Cafod’s call to a ‘fast day’ on the first Friday in October (6th), it is not just thanksgiving for the bounty of the earth and the sea, but also gratitude for those who plough the 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

Canon Philip Gillespie

for wisdom in our daily choices and our caretaking of the Earth. Pope Francis wrote of this in his encyclical letter, Laudato Si’, which was written eight years ago in 2015 but which is certainly worth revisiting: ‘In the words of his beautiful canticle Saint Francis of Assisi reminds us that our common home is like a sister with whom we share our life and a beautiful mother who opens her arms to embrace us.

‘Praise to you, my Lord, through our Sister Mother Earth who sustains and governs us and who produces various fruit and coloured flowers and herbs.’ (LS#1)

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:

‘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.’

Sunday thoughts Mgr John Devine OBE

When rooting through boxes of my belongings I often unearth treasures I’ve forgotten about for years. Recently I found a small leatherbound book given to me by Father Michael O’Connor on the day I went to Upholland at the age of 12, on Monday 12 September 1960.

The little book was entitled ‘Prayers of an Irish Mother’. I later discovered a £5 note slipped into the flyleaf (the equivalent of £85 in today’s money). There was also one of his own ordination cards. Fr O’Connor was a curate in my home parish of Christ the King, Childwall. He was later to spend happy years on the Isle of Man before serving at the Metropolitan Cathedral and St Monica’s, Bootle. I visited him in Rathmore, County Kerry, a year before he died aged 95 on 21 November 2021. This little prayer book became home to several other prayer cards. One of these was a ‘Prayer to the Holy Ghost for the Success of the Ecumenical Council’. We prayed this prayer every evening after the rosary in the college chapel. None of us realised how our prayers would be fulfilled in the years ahead. Here you can read the prayer in full:

Holy Spirit, who art sent by the Father in the name of Jesus to be with the Church by Thy presence and sure guidance, we pray Thee graciously to pour out the fullness of Thy gifts upon

Peace will come

My mum’s dad was called I have mentioned him before column.

Bob, as he was known, came from Dublin. His father married a Catholic and, it appears, was disinherited because he lived in the Liberties, a poor area near Dublin city centre where many political activists lived and worked.

I have no idea of the truth of this story but Grandad Bob appeared in England just after the Easter Rising and there were tales around the family of a shooting and a desperate escape. He was a complex man, with many foibles. He once made my mum chip off her nail varnish on a Christmas morning because he didn’t approve of painted ladies. No Christmas dinner was served until he had examined her hands and deemed her fit to sit at the table. He was given to fits of melancholy and occasionally would lose his temper and become extremely violent. That violence was always lurking in the background and though it did not happen too often, I was told that it was frightening when it did.

the Ecumenical Council. Sweet Comforter and Teacher, enlighten the minds of our Prelates who gladly assemble at the invitation of the Supreme Pontiff at Rome to celebrate the Sacred Council.

May the Council be most fruitful, so that the light and strength of the Gospel may spread more and more among men and the Catholic religion and its missionary work happily prosper, making the teaching of the Church and her wholesome moral guidance fully understood.

Sweet Guide of the spirit, strengthen our minds in truth, that we may be humble and obedient in heart, and that, receiving gratefully the decisions of the Council, we may hasten to put them into practice.

We pray also for those still separated from the one fold of Jesus Christ, that, glorying as they do in the Christian name, they may come at last to unity under the one Shepherd. Show once more Thy wonders in our day as on the day of Pentecost. Grant to Thy Church, that, constant and united in prayer with Mary, the Mother of Jesus, and following the lead of Blessed Peter, the reign of our divine Saviour may be advanced, a reign of truth, of justice, love and peace. Amen.

I’m often aware that violence lurks just below the surface in many people. We can be so violent not just in our actions but in our language and in the way we treat one another. If we read the Bible from beginning to end, what we have is a progressive revelation, or maybe it is a progressive realisation on our part, of the loving nonviolence of God. This is a revelation that ends in Jesus who reveals a God of radical non-violence. Even His death on the cross is a teaching on non-violence. That, I think, blows our minds.

Those who are really listening will hear the call to reach out to the outcast and the hated one without violence, simply with love. Martin Luther King once wrote: ‘Violence is impractical because it is a descending spiral ending in destruction for all. It is immoral because it seeks to humiliate the opponent rather than win his understanding: it seeks to annihilate rather than convert. Violence is immoral because it thrives on hatred rather than love. It destroys community and makes brotherhood impossible. It leaves society in monologue rather than dialogue. Violence ends up defeating itself. It creates bitterness in the survivors and brutality in the destroyers.’

Let us pray that we might allow the spirit to free us from the violence within that we might treat every person with the dignity they deserve as children of God.

Father Chris Thomas

from the archives

A band of devout and earnest sisters

by Neil Sayer, Archdiocesan Archivist

consequently, when they leave their situations or when they have their holidays they are exposed to the greatest danger”. At this date, the refuge could accommodate some 200 women: a new wing had been added to the original building, with a classroom and dormitory on the upper floors. The classroom was used to teach sewing, which gave the refuge and its inhabitants an

There’s an album of photographs in the Archdiocesan Archives over a century old. The photographs are rather faded now, but they still reveal life in a local convent and women’s refuge at the turn of the twentieth century.

The convent is that of the Good Shepherd at Ford. Funded partly by charitable donations, appeals for money often appeared in the Catholic newspapers of the 1890s, and between newspaper accounts, a pamphlet published in 1907, and correspondence with the Bishop, we can trace the history of the first fifty years of the convent and refuge. Within its walls, said one unidentified journalist, “a noble work is being carried on by a band of devout and earnest sisters”.

It was in 1858 that Bishop Goss invited the Sisters of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd to establish themselves in Liverpool. They were a French foundation, established in Caen in 1641 by Father John Eudes. During his missionary work, according to one Victorian newspaper cutting, “Father Eudes was the means of converting many from a career of sin, amongst whom were a number of young women who, desirous of leading a better life, claimed his pity and help. In order to remove these from the daily temptation to which they were subjected the priest desired to place them together in a house of refuge”.

More refuges were founded across the continent, and eventually in 1841 the Sisters of the Good Shepherd opened a house in London. It was from there that five Sisters were sent to Liverpool to their first house in Everton, which very soon was able to accommodate 50 women seeking refuge. There were several moves, including to a former lunatic asylum at Walton Lodge, before a purpose-built convent and refuge was opened in January 1868. Ford, at that time a largely rural area, was selected as the site principally because it was removed from the temptations of the expanding city of Liverpool. The nuns bound themselves to work for the conversion of sinners, and it is probably because of that that there is a commonly held belief that the refuge was established to rescue women from prostitution. In fact, it seems to have worked through prevention at least as much as cure, saving girls “from the dangers that beset the streets of our large towns”. The Mother Prioress in charge of the convent wrote in about 1893 that many of the women were assisted in finding work, usually as maids or domestic servants. However, “many of our children have no homes to go to;

income, along with the laundry work which was also undertaken. A new church attached to the convent was built in 1887, designed by the well-known architectural firm of Pugin and Pugin and dedicated to the Sacred Heart. This was open for public worship, so it was ingeniously arranged in order that “the three congregations, the Nuns, the penitents, and the public can all see the altar, and yet not be seen by each other”. The expense of all these new buildings meant that appeals for subscriptions and donations continued for many years afterwards. The album of faded photographs seems to have been associated with these appeals, a visual explanation of the mission and purpose of the convent and refuge.

Many women came back to the refuge for a second or even a third time: presumably, it offered a safe space in which to stay while seeking employment. The Mother Prioress pointed out that “Several have been in the house over 20 years, and a great many over 10 years”. A report in 1887 noted how well former guests were doing: “Many are married, or in situations of trust; others have been restored to their friends, or have emigrated; and not a few are very apostles in trying to do good to others”. By 1893, almost 3,000 women and girls had passed through the doors of the refuge. This shows the limitations of the records held in the archive: we know almost nothing about them as individuals except where they are named on the national census returns, taken every 10 years.

Engraving of the Good Shepherd Convent and Women’s Refuge, Ford, 1885

Sewing class, supervised by the nun behind the desk, c.1900

The vast dormitory in the eaves of the building, c.1900

News diary

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

Ukraine’s Bishop Gregory visits Liverpool to thank those involved in #Liverpool4Ukraine appeal

was marked by a short liturgy led by Canon Aidan Prescott, Vicar General, where prayers were offered for peace in Ukraine.

“I came here to thank the people of Liverpool who have helped so much”, Bishop Gregory said during his visit. “Life in Ukraine has changed – many people have lost relatives, lost jobs, lost homes, and many have had to leave Ukraine. If we didn’t get the help we’ve received we don’t know where we’d be – it would certainly be much worse.”

The collaboration between the Archdiocese of Liverpool and Bishop Gregory’s diocese has been a resounding success. Since the appeal’s launch, over 1,000 boxes of donated goods have been delivered to Bishop Gregory to be distributed amongst his community, making a tangible difference in the lives of those struggling in Ukraine.

Bishop Hryhoriy (Gregory) Komar, the auxiliary bishop of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy (diocese) of Sambir-Drohobych, Ukraine, visited the Archdiocese of Liverpool to express his heartfelt gratitude to all those who participated in the #Liverpool4Ukraine appeal.

The #Liverpool4Ukraine appeal was initiated by the Archdiocese of Liverpool in February 2022 with the aim of providing support to the people of Ukraine who are enduring challenging circumstances due to the ongoing conflict. Partnering with Bishop Gregory’s diocese, the archdiocese has since made five trips to the Ukraine border, carrying essential aid to those in need.

The aid delivered included crucial supplies like medical items, thermal clothing for the harsh winter months, toiletries, sleeping bags, and building materials.

Bishop Gregory’s visit to the archdiocesan office was a touching gesture to personally extend his thanks to all those who contributed to the #Liverpool4Ukraine appeal. The occasion

The support from the people of Liverpool has been remarkable, with donations to the appeal reaching an impressive £136,000. The visit was not just a charitable endeavour but also held a profound spiritual significance. The Liturgy of the Word for Peace with Justice in Ukraine, presided by Canon Aidan, was a testament to the shared prayers and concerns for the wellbeing of the Ukrainian people.

Bishop Gregory commented on the impact of the Catholic Church in Ukraine: “The Church has always been important in Ukrainian society, but her role has now increased, as people are now coming to the Church not only for spiritual help but also material help.”

Bishop Gregory’s pastoral visit to Liverpool served as a moment of thanksgiving and acknowledgment for the unwavering support and kindness extended to his diocese and the people of Ukraine through the #Liverpool4Ukraine appeal. It was a heartening reminder of the positive impact that communities can have when they unite for a common cause, transcending borders and offering hope and solace to those facing adversity.

SVP members rededication Mass and blessing of our work

On Saturday 30 September, members of the SVP across the archdiocese will be joining together for a special Mass in which they rededicate themselves to the society and its work.

The Mass is at 12 noon at St Teresa of Avila Church, Devon Street, St Helens, WA10 4ES. Bishop Tom Neylon, the SVP central council spiritual director for Liverpool, will be celebrating, alongside other clergy.

There will be refreshments in the parish centre, and hopefully a chance to visit the new SVP shop around the corner from the

church which will be officially blessed and opened by Bishop Tom Neylon.

Membership Support Officer Kathy Riley said: “All members and anyone interested in the work of the SVP are invited to join us. During this special Mass, there will be an invitation to renew members’ commitment to the alleviation of poverty in all its forms and a blessing of our work.”

Next year marks 190 years since the SVP started providing support to the Archdiocese of Liverpool.

L-R: Fr Francis Marsden, Bishop Gregory and Canon Aidan Prescott

Historical graveyard repaired by volunteers celebrates first Mass in 8 years

The Chantry in Windleshaw, St Helens, which has been transformed by a group of local volunteers, will celebrate the first Mass at the site for eight years in September.

The cemetery has 1,300 graves in total and 400 of them have been restored by volunteers over the past 12 years.

The oldest grave is from 1751 and the oldest record of the site is 1658. There are graves of one bishop, 31 priests, 29 soldiers and businesspeople including the man that brought glassmaking to St Helens.

Volunteer Ted Forsyth said: “I started volunteering here 12 years ago and the graves were in bad disrepair. Since then, we have repaired 100s of graves whilst uncovering so many interesting stories. I’m not a historian, but I developed an interest in local history after I started looking into my family tree after my nan died.

“The group of volunteers which today includes myself, Karen, Jean and Dave, come here every weekend unless it’s raining to work on the site. The process of restoring the graves is to find them using the records we have, dig them out and then use soil to fill back around them again. “We have come across lots of graves that have had pieces missing, we’ve been able to find these pieces and put them back together to return it to a full grave.

“The cemetery is incredibly interesting, there are so many stories behind the people buried here. There are lots of local people who have been influential in the history of St Helens such as Lords and businesspeople, but also people from further afield such as Sri Lanka. There is still even more to uncover, it would take another 10 years for us to restore all of the graves here. The record we have for restoring graves is nine in one day, the longest it has taken us for one is two weeks.”

Fr Michael Harwood will celebrate Mass at the Chantry on Saturday 9 September at 2pm. All are welcome to attend. Fr Michael will be returning in November to bless the soldiers’ graves.

Ted will be delivering talks on the history of the site on Sunday 10 and 17 September at 11am, all are welcome.

Celebrating Lourdes at home in Everton

Parishioners at St Francis Xavier Church in Everton who were unable to travel to Lourdes for the centenary year took part in celebrations at home.

On the Sunday of the pilgrimage, they gathered in procession to the beautiful Rosary Altar and remembered their connection with many other parishes under the care and support of the Archdiocese of Liverpool. They prayed and sang in honour of Our Lady of Lourdes and St Bernadette.

During the pilgrimage week, parishioners travelled to Holywell, near St Asaph and drank from the well, praying for all assisted pilgrims and those that care for them, especially for those from the Father James Nugent Deanery travelling with the Youth Pilgrimage, Hospialite and clergy.

The day concluded with fish and chips in Conwy. Some parishioners enjoyed the Classical Musical Festival at St Mary’s Church, whilst others had their fish pinched by a seagull!

93-year-old Peggy, said: “I’ve travelled to Lourdes a few times with the Archdiocesan Pilgrimage so it was good to be able to join in with Lourdes at home although the cobbles in Conwy were a challenge for me and my wheelie aid!”

Parishioner Monica appreciated the day saying “I thoroughly enjoyed the quiet time and the story telling from Fr. Chris MCoy at Holywell but I was devasted when the seagull robbed my fish!”

All are more than welcome to visit the magnificent church of Saint Francis Xavier, affectionately known as SFX Church. An original 1924 Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes photograph is on display for the centenary year, so why not arrange to visit. The church is open most mornings so please contact 0151 298 1911 or email; sfxchurch@rcaol.org.uk for more details.

NOVENA to ST JUDE

Holy St Jude, Apostle and Martyr great in virtue and rich in miracles, near Kinsmen of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke you, special patron in time of need, to you I have recourse from the depths of my heart and humbly beg to you whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance.

Help me now in my urgent and present need and grant my earnest petition. In return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. For nine consecutive days say three Our Fathers, three Hail Marys and three Glorias.

Publication must be promised. St Jude pray for us and all that invoke your aid.

Amen

by Hugh Donleavy

Pastoral ponderings New Training Opportunities

It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost a year since I started writing these little pieces for the Catholic Pic, and now we’re back to the start of the academic year again.

It’s been a pretty uneventful summer for me to be honest. There was one unfortunate incident where I couldn’t find the notes for my homily anywhere, and, after an initial panic and very dry mouth subsided, I ended up having to improvise. Funnily enough, as soon as I went back to my place, I found the notes right in front of me, almost like some sort of cruel joke. Perhaps it was providence in the end though, since it wasn’t a complete disaster, and it certainly made me less stressed going forward. You do tend to learn a lot more from your mistakes than your successes, or so they say.

Apart from the usual routine–Mass, prayers, communion visits, funerals, and baptisms–I’ve been down south to visit a couple of friends. It’s easy to lose touch with people when you’re not regularly seeing each other, so I try to make an effort to meet up with friends I’ve made in seminary. One of the funny things that came up is that, being dressed in a clerical collar, you get all sorts of people stopping you in the street. I’ve only ever had pleasant experiences, but it can be funny to be suddenly disabused of your illusions of blending in.

Since I’ve been here in Maghull I’ve been invited round to a couple of parishioners’ houses, which is nice. Even if I probably won’t be here for very long, I’m enjoying getting to know everyone, and I’ve felt very welcome.

With things having calmed down a bit since my diaconal ordination, I’ve now got another ordination to plan, so I’m back to booking my retreat, sending out invitations, etc. Of course, I also need to practise saying Mass and hearing confessions, among other things. These are two of the things I’m most looking forward to as a priest. The sacrament of penance is something I’ve always appreciated a lot, personally, and so it will be nice to be available for other people in that way. In a lot of ways, it’s getting quite daunting now - only a few more months before I’m a priest. There’ll be a lot to get used to, a lot of responsibility, and a lot of change, but an exciting sort of change.

It has been over a year since I began working for the Archdiocese of Liverpool, and it has been wonderful to observe the amount of great work that is happening by local volunteers who support their parishes and deaneries. My job is to support these groups by coordinating training to equip volunteers with the tools necessary to provide the best possible service and experiences. With this in mind, I would like to let you know about exciting developments that will be coming to fruition in the next few months.

Firstly, the RCIA Core Group have arranged several free workshops at various locations across the diocese. These meetings are specifically aimed at volunteers who help support and coordinate RCIA in their area (not for Catechumens and Candidates). Taking place between 18 – 30 September in Wrightington, Widnes and Liverpool, these gatherings will provide us with a chance to catch up, share ideas of best practices, and explore a variety of training resources that may be useful in developing your RCIA journey. If you might be interested in attending these workshops and wish to find out more, please email rcia@rcaol.org.uk

Secondly, there is a short workshop that has been developed for facilitators of any group activities, for example, catechists, those delivering children’s liturgy, facilitators of environmental workshops and more. This course can serve as a useful update and provide us with an opportunity to consider our current

by Elizabeth Parsons

practices. These sessions will be delivered on an ad hoc basis. If you’re interested in finding out when one might be available in your area, please email training@rcaol.org.uk

Finally, we have a new Catechist course running from the second week in October. There will be three modules in this course; the first part consists of four sessions, which will explore key principles of Catechesis. It is perfect for those considering being a catechist or wanting to explore the foundations of catechesis. The second module, beginning in the new year, will explore key elements of the Catholic Faith and how they can be explored through Catechesis. The third and final module will take place after Easter and will help identify key principles to develop a culture of ongoing catechesis, formation and discipleship. Together, all three of these modules will cost £100, although you can choose to undertake one or two modules separately, depending on your experience. Whether you’re new to Catechesis, or want to deepen your existing knowledge and skills, email training@rcaol.org.uk to find out more.

As you can see there is lots going on in the Pastoral Development Department and it’s an exciting time for us as we are currently recruiting for a new Parish and Deanery Adviser. You can find out more and apply for the role on our website: www.liverpoolcatholic. org.uk/careers - applications close on Monday 11 September.

what’s on September

Monday 4 September

Craft workshop at The Irenaeus Centre, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, Liverpool L22 1RD at 10.00am. All are welcome, suggested donation of £5. Please contact jenny@irenaeus.co.uk or call 0151 949 1199 to book your place (booking is essential).

Tuesday 5, 12, 19, 26 September

The Shaping of Things to Come: Reflecting on the life and ministries of our parishes. How can we move into the future? at The Irenaeus Centre, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, Liverpool L22 1RD, 7.30pm – 8:30pm.

Thursday 7 September

Newman Circle Talk on Lourdes at St Helen’s Parish Centre, Crosby, L23 7TQ at 7.30pm. Mgr. John Butchard, Archdiocesan Pilgrimage director for 25 years and dedicated pilgrim since 1968, will be presenting a talk on the Lourdes pilgrimage, outlining the evolution of facilities and support for pilgrims over the years. This fascinating talk will take place at St Helen’s Parish Centre and is completely free to attend to all. Doors open at 7.00pm, at which point tea and coffee will be available.

Saturday 9 September

Come And Celebrate Life BBQ

And Mass: A time to relax and share with families and friends, at The Irenaeus Centre, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, Liverpool L22 1RD at 12.00pm. For more information, contact jenny@irenaeus. co.uk, or phone 0151 949 1199.

Sunday 10 September

Lourdes reunion Mass

St Mary’s Church, Lowe House, St Helens WA10 2BE at 5.00pm.

All are welcome, especially those who travelled to Lourdes as part of the centenary year celebrations.

Monday 11, 18, 25 September

Prayer For Healing: at The Irenaeus Centre, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, Liverpool L22 1RD, every Monday 2.00pm-3.00pm For more information, contact jenny@irenaeus. co.uk, or phone 0151 949 1199

Thursday 14, 21, 28 September

Scripture Mornings:

Gratitude and blessings in scripture at The Irenaeus Centre, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, Liverpool L22 1RD

from 10.30am to 12.00pm. For more information, contact jenny@irenaeus. co.uk, or phone 0151 949 1199

Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 September

Opening days as part of National Heritage Week at St Anne’s Church, Overbury Street, Edge Hill at 12.00-4.00pm.

During the open days, visitors can admire the architecture of the church as well as listen to the choir singing.

Monday 18 - Thursday 21 September

As part of their tour, the Relics of the Scottish Saints (St Andrew, St Margaret and St Columba) will be hosted at the Metropolitan Cathedral from Monday 18– Thursday 21 September. A welcome Mass will be held on Monday at 5pm7pm, and a closing Mass will be held on Thursday at 12:15pm – 1.00pm. During their time at the Cathedral, you are welcome to visit the Relics in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel.

Monday 18 and 25, and Sunday 30 September

RCIA Meet-Up:

All RCIA coordinators are invited to a meeting with the RCIA core group for training, updates and a general catch-up.

• 18 September: 6.45pm – 8.00pm - St Joseph’s Church, Wrightington, WN6 9PA

• 25 September 6.45pm – 8.00pmSt Bede’s Guild Hall, Widnes, WA8 6EL

• 30 September 11.00am -12.30pmLiverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, L3 5TQ Please email rcia@rcaol.org.uk to sign up for the event.

Friday 22 September

The Choral Pilgrimage 2023, A Watchful Gaze at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King at 7.30pm.

The Sixteen’s 2023 Choral Pilgrimage tour celebrates the work of one of choral music’s most treasured composersWilliam Byrd. 400 years after his death, his music still moves, inspires, and has relevance in today’s world. This concert will explore some of his most emotional works, introducing the music of his influences and colleagues, and bringing his legacy firmly into the modern day with the world premiere of two beautiful pieces by Dobrinka Tabakova. Book now: thesixteen.com or by calling 0333 010 2850

Friday 22 – Sunday 24 September

Women’s Weekend: Standing on the

Shoulders of the Ones Who’ve Gone Before Us at The Irenaeus Centre, 32 Great Georges Road, Waterloo, Liverpool L22 1RD. For more information, contact jenny@irenaeus.co.uk, or phone 0151 949 1199

Saturday 23 September

Lecture on Nicholas Breakspear, the only English Pope, by Adrian Waddingham CBE at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King at 11:00am – 1:00pm. The Cathedral Friends are delighted to welcome Adrian Waddingham CBE to give an illustrated talk on Nicholas Breakspear. For more information, contact c.hanlon@metcathedral.org.uk

Saturday 23 September

Induction day for Loyola Certificate in Pastoral Ministry

St Margaret Clitherow Centre, Croxteth Drive, Liverpool, L17 1AA. During the first half of the day (10.00am-12.15pm) the current cohort of candidates are welcome for a catch up, to discuss progress and receive any support they need. In the afternoon, there will be an induction for those who would like to start the course this year. There is still time to sign up, if you are interested, please email loyola@rcaol.org. uk before Friday 15 September.

Friday 29 September

Parish choral offering with the choir of Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral St Francis Xavier Church, Salisbury St, Liverpool L3 8DR at 6.30pm

Admission free with retiring collection.

Friday 29 September to Sunday

1 October

Praying with the Saints

Weekend retreat at the Christian Heritage Centre, at Stonyhurst. Details: https:// christianheritagecentre.com/events/ praying-with-the-saints/

Saturday 30 September

Eucharistic Minister Training

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

SVP members rededication Mass and blessing of our work at St Teresa of Avila Church, Devon Street, St Helens WA10 4ES at 12 noon. During the Mass, celebrated by Bishop Tom Neylon, there will be an invitation to members to renew their commitment to the alleviation of poverty in all its forms.

New beginnings for students

by Dr Christopher McElroy Director of Music, Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral

Cathedral Record

Canon Anthony O’Brien –Cathedral Dean

Following the main holiday period we begin in September with a welcome and renewal of community life to begin the new season and academic year. The Cantonese Community will have a Mass in Cantonese on Saturday 2 September at 2pm. The general Cathedral Community Mass weekend with the full return of the choirs will be on Sunday 10 September.

September is traditionally a time of new beginnings. The start of a new academic year with school pupils moving into new year groups and university students arriving in Liverpool for their first experiences of living away from home.

September also marks the beginning of a new year for the cathedral choir. We have new boys and girls starting as probationers and older children returning for their second/third/fourth years. It is always an anxious time for some of our older boys (and their choir director!) to see how well their voices still work after the extended summer break. An older boy treble is like a premium vintage car. Everything works well once the engine is fired up, but after a long break, getting the engine (in this case, the vocal apparatus) into working order can be a challenge!

In addition to the usual round of service rehearsals and concerts this term, for the first time since prior to Covid-19 the cathedral choir will be going on an international tour. Travelling with the choir abroad is an important part of the holistic chorister experience. Retiring choristers often speak of the wonderful memories they shared with their fellow choir members

on trips to Europe and North America. Our trip in October will take us to the Netherlands, with performances in Utrecht and Amsterdam. We are very much looking forward to it!

Over the last three years major restoration work has been undertaken on the cathedral organ. Having served faithfully for over 50 years the organ was in need of a thorough overhaul and cleaning, so that it may serve the cathedral for the next 50 years. The work has been carried out by the firm of Harrison & Harrison Ltd from Durham, who have done a magnificent job restoring and renewing the many parts of the instrument that combine to make it such a glorious work of art.

The organ now once again fulfills the mandate laid down by the Fathers of Vatican II when they stated ‘the pipe organ is to be held in high esteem, for it is the traditional musical instrument which adds a wonderful splendour to the Church’s ceremonies and powerfully lifts up man’s mind to God and to higher things.’

The organ will be officially blessed and reopened in May 2024, with an exciting series of concerts and events throughout the summer.

The Knights of St Columba are sponsoring a United Kingdom tour of the relics of Scottish Saints – Saints Columba, Andrew the Apostle and Margaret. These will arrive at our Cathedral on Monday 18 September with a reception Mass celebrated by the National KSC Chaplain, Bishop Tom Neylon. I’m not sure whether there is any coincidence in this, but there is a whisky festival in the Crypt on the previous Saturday! The relics will remain with us until Thursday 21 and there will be a departure Mass on that day at 12.15pm. The Chapter Mass will still go ahead in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel on Wednesday 20 September at midday.

The Sixteen Choral Singers are in Concert at the Cathedral on Friday 22 September at 7.30pm. Entitled ‘A Watchful Gaze’, this year the focus is on William Byrd- his music and that of his colleagues and contemporaries. The Cathedral Friends have arranged for Adrian Waddington to come and give a talk on ‘The English Pope’. The speaker has recently written a history of the life of Nicholas Brakespeare, who is little known and yet the only Englishman to be elected pope throughout the history of the papacy. If you would like to come and learn more about Pope Adrian 1V the talk is at 11am in the Gibberd Room on Saturday 23 September.

On Sunday 24 September at 3pm there is the annual pause for hope service for all who are affected by cancer.

Cath McCarthy. Caring for our Lourdes pilgrims

by Simon Hart

‘We went as a family – the five of us on the train from Lime Street,’ says Cath McCarthy, remembering her very first pilgrimage to Lourdes and that long journey by rail and ferry. The year was 1986 and Cath, now president of the Liverpool Hospitalite, the volunteer organisation that provides care and support for Liverpool’s assisted pilgrims in Lourdes, had just left primary school. It was the first step towards a lifelong involvement with the Liverpool Archdiocesan pilgrimage.

‘We did that for quite a few years, she recalls. ‘Then, when I was 16, I enrolled as a handmaid.’ Her late father Mick was a brancardier, and her mother Dorothy a handmaid. Following in their footsteps took her into the wider Liverpool Hospitalite family. ‘It is a very supportive environment,’ she says. ‘We care for the assisted pilgrims and get a lot out of that work but also it is the friendships you form and the connections with people. It is quite faith-affirming and life-affirming, and I think that’s why it brings people back.’

Her point about connections comes with one very obvious example: it was through Lourdes that Cath met her husband Mark, himself a long-serving Liverpool hospitalier. Indeed their first encounter came at her brother Michael’s wedding (to another Hospitalite member, before you ask).

‘It is a big community,’ she adds. ‘There are different events during the year where we meet up.’ And she is delighted that the community’s numbers have grown this year with the centenary pilgrimage featuring a rise in members – 47 Hospitalite helpers were either entirely new to Lourdes or returning after a long pause. ‘There were some members

who hadn’t been for quite a number of years,’ explains Cath, a parishioner at St Joseph’s, Blundellsands. ‘Because it was the centenary and we’d done a recruitment drive in parishes, they decided to come back. It was really positive and we had 20 new people, which was over double what we’d normally have.’

The pilgrimage itself is seven days long but for Cath, Liverpool Hospitalite president since 2019, her role presents challenges across the whole year. ‘In September we will meet and start gathering feedback and planning for next year. We have meetings all through the year. Then when you’re in Lourdes, you are trying to keep an overview of what is happening.’

The ‘advice and wisdom’ of her mother Dorothy – herself a former Liverpool Hospitalite president – is always welcome though, as Cath underlines, there is plenty of support from elsewhere. ‘It is a team and there are a lot of people working away. In Lourdes itself, it is busy but not frantic. It didn’t feel like I had much time for myself this year because it was the centenary with a lot of extra activities planned.’

Of those extra activities she particularly enjoyed the trip undertaken with the assisted pilgrims to Hosanna House in nearby Bartres. ‘A couple of the youth coaches provided us with music and it was lovely getting away from the hustle and bustle and having the views of the hills,’ she says.

For Cath, the pilgrimage falls during the summer break from her professional commitments as head of Religious Education at Holy Family High School in Thornton. ‘I’ve been there for 15 years,’ she says. ‘It’s a lovely school, with a very nice community.’ As we speak, the new school year is around the corner, though she is still dwelling on the conclusion of the latest Lourdes cycle.

She reflects: ‘There is a bit of job satisfaction in bringing a group of people together and having a lovely week together, with that prayerful atmosphere and spiritual enrichment and everything going well and, fingers crossed, getting everyone home safe and sound.’ Job done now on to the next one.

Cath with her husband Mark in Lourdes

So much to celebrate at St John Rigby on A-level results day

Summer 2023 has marked another outstanding set of results for students at St John Rigby College (SJR) in Wigan. Pass rates have exceeded 98% once again, while high grades have rocketed in comparison to 2019. Across science and maths there was an A-level pass rate of 100% and a high grade rate of 63%. Student performance in applied general qualifications resulted in 72% high grades and a pass rate which exceeded 99%.

These results suggest that, as with last year’s cohort, the vast majority will progress to their chosen apprenticeships and degree courses. All of the Oxbridge students at St John Rigby have also secured the grades needed for their places at Oxford and Cambridge universities.

It is for these and many other reasons that staff at the college are so proud of the ‘Class of 2023’.

Principal of St John Rigby College, Peter McGhee CBE, commented: “I could not be more proud of them or of the commitment of our staff.

“Our students work extremely hard and inspire us to do all that we can to help them but it does need to be noted that the demands on support staff and teaching staff have been highly significant in recent years.

“As is always the case, the environment created at SJR has produced something very special and will enable our young people to go on to do great things in the future.

“I also think it is worthy of note that half of these students were ‘first generation’

Students celebrate A-level and vocational results at All Saints Sixth Form College

All Saints Sixth Form College students received their A-level and BTEC results on 17 August.

The Garston-based sixth form college has continued to achieve positive outcomes for its students, with ambitious destinations that include the University of Liverpool, University of Manchester and as far afield as the University of Dundee. Incredibly, 100% of students who applied for university have obtained a place.

Part of All Saints Multi Academy Trust, All Saints Sixth Form College is pleased to announce extremely positive outcomes for students who studied business studies, IT and digital media. Amongst those celebrating is Joe who obtained excellent grades in digital media, IT and computer science and is going to study computer forensics at Liverpool John Moore’s University. Special mention goes to Clara achieving A to C grades, managing to secure a place at the University of Liverpool to study architecture.

Mr Grant Sibbald, head of sixth form, said: “A huge congratulations to our class of 2023! They have all done exceptionally well and the staff and I are very proud of what they have achieved. Despite the effects of the pandemic, they have proved to be determined young people with a desire to do well.”

This year, All Saints Sixth Form College has gone from strength to strength and has received a record number of applications for September 2023, with a 50% increase from external students.

Mr Sibbald added: “With The Academy of St Nicholas on the same site as the sixth form, many Year 11 students will continue their studies with us, however, we have received a lot of applications from students from other schools in the area which is really exciting and testament to our varied course offering and growing reputation.”

degree candidates, meaning that neither of their parents had experienced university qualifications.

“This demonstrates the skills that they have as young people as well as the extent to which their time at SJR prepared them both personally and academically for the challenges that they might encounter.”

time to renovate at SJCMAT!

Summer is the perfect time for schools to renovate their existing grounds and learning environments, and that is exactly what St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust has done. Focusing on their secondary learning environments, St Augustine and St Chad’s, the trust has been working hard to improve certain aspects.

It has been a busy summer for the trust with a number of large capital projects across their estate. Although most of the work has been on heating systems, roofing and electrical compliance, they’re excited to have worked on brand new toilets at St Augustine and a beautiful new library at St Chad’s.

In regard to the new toilets at St Augustine, all elements of the installation have been designed to provide the best value and require very little, if any, maintenance.

The installation includes full-height cubicles which ensure privacy, concealed cisterns and rimless WC bowls (low-water use cisterns).

The toilet area is now open plan and gender neutral to improve behaviour and safety. The trust continues to focus on these capital projects across its schools and, in turn, improving the learning environments for all pupils and students. The trust is also pleased to announce that it is expanding, welcoming new members to the central team and enhancing its offer for all within the St Joseph family.

It’s

The month of September has arrived. New school bags, new shoes, new uniforms, and school equipment have been bought. The school buildings are spotless. For some, it is a time of great anticipation and excitement, and for others, some worry and anxiety.

The beginning of the new school year brings endless possibilities. Goals are set for the new year and plans are made on how success will be achieved. It is a time of hope and renewal.

Our relationship with God is one that involves many new beginnings. We sin and lose our way, and God welcomes us back. There is always the chance to start again.

Saint Francis de Sales said: “Don’t despair over your shortcomings. Start over each day. You make spiritual progress by beginning again and again.”

I wish all our young people every success for the new school year. Good luck to those students who are starting school or college this month; I know they will be looked after by our caring and dedicated staff. Please keep them and the staff of all our schools and colleges in your prayers.

The school communities of Our Lady Queen of Peace, Skelmersdale and St Mary Magdalene, Penwortham are very much in my thoughts as they start the new school year mourning the death of students. The death of inspirational teacher Marvin Clarke will also be very much in the minds of the school communities of Maricourt and the Academy of St John Bosco. May their souls rest in peace.

Finally, I was honoured to meet Bishop Gregory, the auxiliary bishop of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of SambirDrohobych, last month. He asked me to convey his thanks to all the schools and colleges of the archdiocese for their support and prayers. I’m reminded of the Ukrainian proverb “Friendship is born in trouble and is hardened in work” – I hope our friendship will continue to develop.

Joan McCarthy Director of Education Archdiocese of Liverpool

A-level and GCSE achievements at St Mary’s College in Crosby

A-level students at St Mary’s College in Crosby recorded a 99% pass rate in the key examinations, with almost a third of students achieving three or more A*, A or B grades.

Overall, a fifth of all passes were at the highest A*/A grades, and more than half were at A*, A or B grade. Almost a fifth of the cohort achieved three or more A* or A grades, an increase on last year.

18-year-old Sami Al-Machhoor achieved four incredible A* passes in biology, chemistry, maths and further maths. Sami is heading to Imperial College London to study medicine.

Sami commented: “I’m really pleased with my results and would like to thank my family and my teachers for their incredible support. I owe a lot to the St Mary’s community for making me the person I am today – I’ll definitely keep in touch.”

Year 11 students also received their GCSE results. More than a third of all passes at the school were at the highest 9-7 grades – an increase on the last pre-COVID year – with a fifth of candidates achieving seven or more passes at these levels. 65% of candidates recorded ten or more GCSE passes, with many achieving 11 or even 12 GCSEs.

Staff at the school believe these results reflect the broad and balanced curriculum at St Mary’s, and the fact that the college does not impose restrictions on the number of GCSE subjects that students can take.

The star performers at St Mary’s this year were Sophie Jones, Archie Davies, Liana Pau and Ben Calder who between them achieved a remarkable 43 GCSE passes, all but three of them at the highest 9-7 grades.

St Mary’s College principal, Mike Kennedy, commented: “We are very proud of all our students who have worked incredibly hard to achieve these results, despite the challenges they have faced over the last few years.

“They deserve credit for their commitment, resilience and positivity, and we congratulate them on this excellent set of results.”

St John Rigby College celebrates students’ outstanding results

Summer 2023 has marked yet another outstanding set of results for students at St John Rigby College. What makes this year’s results so remarkable is that they differ from the na?onal trend of a significant decline in grades in order to ‘re-base’ A level grades across the country to those awarded prior to the pandemic in 2019. An area of par?cular note and celebra?on is that of Science and Mathema?cs, across which there is an A Level pass rate of 100% and a high grade rate of 63%.

Principal, Peter McGhee CBE, commented: “The achievements of this group of incredible young people are testament to their resilience, their hard work and the way that they have supported one another. I could not be more proud of them or of the commitment of our staff. Our students work extremely hard and inspire us to do all that we can to help. It also needs to be recognised that the demands on support staff and teaching staff have been highly significant in recent years. As is always the case, the environment created at SJR has produced something very special and will enable our young people to go on to do great things in the future.”

These results suggest that, as with last year’s cohort, the vast majority will progress to their chosen appren?ceships and degree courses. To put this into context, 93% of last year’s students who applied to university, secured grades which meant that they were able to progress to their first choice university, a figure which exceeded the na?onal average by approximately 20 percentage points. It is too early to give a precise equivalent for this year but it seems likely that student progression to chosen des?na?ons will be equally impressive. One thing that is known is that every Oxbridge student secured the grades needed for their places at Oxford and Cambridge universi?es.

Principal Peter McGhee with students who collected their results on 17th August 2023

St John Rigby College A-level Results 2023: Ma;hew Henderson, leA, Thomas Dodd, Luke Flanagan and twins Aaron and Robert McNestry

St John Rigby College A-level Results 2023: Grace Moukam, leA, Lydia Spencer and Rebecca Gradwell, who have gained A’s in Law and will carrying on studying at Lancaster, Liverpool and York universiNes

Kelli Brittles, teacher of business at St John Bosco Arts College

There must be something very special about a school for a student to study there, train to become a teacher and then become a full-time member of staff. That’s exactly what Kelli Brittles did at St John Bosco Arts College in Croxteth.

Kelli thoroughly enjoyed her time at school and loved learning. The strong Catholic values of the school meant that she felt welcomed from day one and part of a huge, loving family.

After her A-levels, Kelli went to the University of Liverpool and completed a business management degree. Teaching hadn’t been a career that Kelli had considered but after observing her cousin teaching in a school in Manchester, she realised this was what she wanted to do.

Kelli says: “I joined the schools direct programme at St John Bosco as I had heard really good things about it. I actually trained in RE (religious education) as there was no opportunity to train through business studies. Upon completion of my PGCE, a teaching role within the business studies department came up - I applied for it and got the job!”

Over the past year, Kelli has gained some valuable experience as an assistant head of year. This has allowed her to explore the pastoral side of school life.

“I’ve learned an awful lot this past year from picking up that pastoral aspect,” Kelli says. “It’s been challenging, but a really good learning experience.”

When Kelli attended St John Bosco Arts College as a student she wasn’t of Catholic faith. She particularly enjoyed RE lessons and loved the Salesian ethos of the school.

She says: “When I was younger, I always wanted to make my communion and get christened as a Catholic and it was something that my parents said I should decide for myself when I’m older. When I was completing my teacher training, I went on the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) course and then became Catholic, having my christening, confirmation and communion all in one.

“I think returning to the school, I realised that I really wanted to be Catholic and this is exactly what I wanted to follow.”

Finding her faith has without a doubt supported Kelli in her role and her understanding of Catholic education.

She explains: “By using the Salesian RUAH values, which stands for ‘Respect, Understanding, Affection and Humour’, this helps us build a wonderful, loving relationship with our students. Together with our college values of ‘Love, Faith, Community, Respect and Hope’ we have created a family that everyone is proud to be part of.”

SFX rejoice over amazing A-level, GCSE and BTEC results.

Both GCSE and A-level results days at St Francis Xavier’s College, Woolton, were full of celebrations.

Sixth former, Jevvie Mehmeti, obtained three Grade Bs in A-level English literature, geography and history and will study law at the University of Liverpool.

Adel Khaled-Jhayem came to the UK in Year 9, having spent some years out of education. Upon joining SFX he was supported by his local parish who helped him adjust to life in the UK.

Adel has worked tirelessly learning English and working towards his dream of becoming a doctor. This rewarded in him achieving an A in A-level Arabic and a distinction* in business studies. Adel is heading to the University of Central Lancashire.

Max Devlin achieved two grade As in A-level psychology and history and a grade C in English literature. Max will be studying criminology and psychology at Liverpool John Moores University.

Also joining LJMU is Matthew Dodson, who achieved two grade As in business studies and English literature. He also received a B in computer science and will study this at university.

Leighton Maher achieved an A in biology and grade B in chemistry and mathematics and will be having a gap year before commencing a dentistry course.

On GCSE results day, William Carr, secured grade 8s in chemistry, geography, maths and physics.

Ruari Birch had high grades across the board including a grade 9 in maths. Ruari will stay at SFX sixth form to study computer science, economics and maths.

Also returning to SFX are students John Percival and Meakin Hughes, who both achieved many grade 7s and 8s in their GCSEs. John will study music, history and criminology while Meakin will study physics, computer science and maths.

Luca Greenall-Ross achieved grade 8s in English literature, geography and RE and will also join the sixth form in September.

Staff at the school were immensely proud of all students.

A-level and GCSE joy at St Mary’s Catholic College

Students at St Mary’s Catholic College Wallasey celebrated their achievements as they received their A-level and GCSE results.

Year 13 student, Mathew Doyle, achieved fantastic Level 3 results in English combined - A*, psychology – A, and business studies - distinction*. Mathew will attend Edge Hill in September to study English literature.

Milly Davison achieved distinction* and distinction in health and social care, and a distinction in media studies.

Another student, Natalie Eeles, will study Egyptology and archaeology at the University of Liverpool. Joining Natalie at

the University of Liverpool are Sean Feeley, head boy, and Harvey Roland who are both studying physics after achieving an A and B grade in the subject at A-level.

The college was delighted to see so many students securing places at their chosen university.

The school also welcomed Year 11 students to collect their GCSE and BTEC results.

St Mary’s results were overall in line with expectations and there are some fantastic success stories.

Elisa Fontana achieved an amazing set of results including six grade 9s, an A in history IGCSE and two grade 7s.

St John Plessington Catholic College pleased with GCSE, A-level and BTEC results

Year 11 students from St John Plessington Catholic College were delighted to receive their GCSE results on 24 August.

Julia excelled across her subjects, receiving five grade 9s, two grade 8s, two grade 7s, and a grade 6. She is planning to study maths, computer science, and further maths at A-level.

Achieving four grade 8s, three grade 7s, two grade 6s and a grade 5, Peter will go on to study physics, biology, and maths at sixth form.

Isaac achieved two grade 8s, three 7s, a 6, three 5s, and a distinction* and will be undertaking history, biology, and chemistry at A-level.

The above students, and many other Year 11s, are remaining at St John Plessington for sixth form.

Mr Peadar McLoughlin, headteacher of the school, said: “It has been a fantastic morning at St John Plessington Catholic College, celebrating the achievements of our Year 11 students. During their time here, they have shown so much dedication and it has most definitely paid off. We are all so proud of them, they are a credit to our school and Trust.”

The school’s sixth formers returned a week later to collect their A-level and BTEC results.

The class of 2023 excelled, with 71% of grades being A* - C or equivalent. 75% of the current cohort who applied to university have all been accepted.

This includes Priscilla Fatokun, who received grades of A*, A, A, and will be attending the University of Warwick to study computer science.

Keira Brady-Jones has secured a place at Loughborough University through the Elite Athlete Programme and will continue to strive towards representing Great Britain in athletics.

Mrs Alison Lock, the director of sixth form, said: “I am delighted with the results that our St John Plessington Sixth Form students have achieved. These results are a testament to their work and effort from over the past couple of years.”

Jedediah Ledsham received a 9 in biology, D* in business, 8 in chemistry and physics, grade 7 in RE as well as four grade 6s.

Justin Feeley, who is staying on at St Mary’s Sixth Form College to study A-levels next year, achieved a fantastic set of results including a grade 8 in physics and grade 7s in biology and history.

Erika Mooney achieved a brilliant set of results including grade 6s in English language and literature and RE.

Headteacher, Mr Kevin Maddocks, said: “Our pupils are inspiring and talented young people, and we couldn’t be prouder of them. It’s great to see the A-level and GCSE results reflect all their hard work and dedication.”

Christ the King delighted with GCSE results

Staff at Christ the King Catholic High School in Southport were delighted on 24 August as Year 11 students collected their GCSE exam results.

Many pupils achieved eight or more higher grades (grades 7-9) with a record number of pupils achieving distinction grades in the school’s best ever vocational results.

The results reflect the hard work of teachers over the past five years, who have provided extra help to pupils in school and after. Additional support included twilight pizza revision nights, one-toone external tutoring and holiday sessions.

A spokesperson from Christ the King Catholic High School said: “Our Year 11 pupils have been inspirational in terms of their hardworking attitude and resilience.

“They will be an asset to future employers as they have learnt to succeed in the face of adversity. We are so immensely proud of you, Year 11!”

During results day, pupils can enrol at CTK6, Christ the King’s thriving and successful sixth form centre offering a wide range of A-level and Level 3 vocational subjects alongside an exceptional personal development programme.

CTK6 is also home to the Southport Football Club U19 academy - SFC Academy @ CTK6. This is a unique opportunity to pursue a varied curriculum of Level 3 and A-level qualifications so that football scholars do not need to limit themselves to sport qualifications whilst pursuing their footballing ambitions. In September 2024 the school is hoping to be able to offer the first U19 women’s academy in the North West.

Christ the King is holding its open evening on Thursday 14 September 2023, 6pm-8.30pm with headteacher presentations at 6.15pm and 7.15pm.

The sixth form open evening is on Wednesday 18 October from 5pm-8pm and is open to all current Year 10 and 11 pupils in the local and North West area.

Staff, students and parents celebrate GCSE results at Maricourt

Maricourt Catholic High School in Maghull celebrated on 24 August with some amazing GCSE results.

There was high energy as students collected their results. Parents, carers, students and friends celebrated together. Students are now moving onto their next steps, with many moving on to study A-level or vocational subjects in Maricourt’s sixth form centre, while others are moving onto college and apprenticeships.

Student Amber achieved six grade 9s, two 8s and one grade 7, while Alex achieved five grade 8s, three grade 7s and one grade 6.

Eleanor achieved two grade 9s, five grade 8s and two grade 7s while student Lil achieve four grade 8s, one distinction, one distinction* and three grade 7s. Staff at Maricourt were incredibly proud, not only with the students’ results, but with their attitudes and conduct during the whole exam period.

The Academy of St Francis of Assisi achieve positive GCSE results

Students from The Academy of St Francis of Assisi (ASFA), Kensington, returned to school on 24 August to collect their GCSE exam results.

The academy, which is part of All Saints Multi Academy Trust, saw students achieve a wide range of results.

With over 50 different languages spoken in the school, it is no surprise that students performed well in these subjects, with Bonsu Williams Osie and David Amos both gaining a grade 9 in Italian. Jan Russel Balanes achieved a 9 in Spanish and Sila Yoztyurk achieved a grade 9 in Turkish.

Many students will go on to study A-level and BTEC courses, with some heading to All Saints Sixth Form College in Garston.

There were some notable successes such as head girl, Annaelle Mbolokele, who achieved 10 GCSEs including eight 9s in biology, chemistry, English literature, English language, French, history, sociology, religious studies and two 8s in maths and physics. She is going to study biology, chemistry, mathematics, and psychology at A-level.

Head boy, Mazen Daham achieved A* for Arabic A-level, and 10 GCSEs including 8s for religious studies and sociology, two 7s, two 6s and two 5s. He plans to study science at A-level and hopes to become a doctor in the future. Students also performed particularly well in various BTEC Tech awards with high grades in drama, sports studies and ICT.

Headteacher, Jo Leech, said: “Although it is for the last time, it was wonderful to see our Year 11 students back in school. GCSE results day can be a stressful time for everyone, but today’s results prove that despite everything, our students have shown dedication and resilience throughout their journey with us. “Well done to ASFA’s class of 2023 and we wish you all the best for the next chapter of your lives.”

Saint Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic Academy celebrate incredible GCSE results

Students at Saint Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic Academy are celebrated after securing fantastic GCSE results on 24 August.

Headteacher of Saint Edmund Arrowsmith, Mr Lee Peachey, said:

“Despite the challenges of Covid, our amazing pupils have truly shone even during these challenging times for our young people. Our pupils have accomplished so much through their relentless efforts.

“I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to our students and staff for their unwavering dedication, hard work, and positive attitude.”

Those smiling included:

• April Beadman having achieved a grade 9 in drama, a grade 8, four grade 7s and two grade 6s is elated to be going on to study politics, sociology and combined English at Carmel Catholic College.

• Cameron Churchill who achieved two grade 9s in English language and English literature, a grade 8 and five grade 6s and will go on to study a diploma in acting at the City of Liverpool College.

• Chloe Schaefer-Jones was pleased to have achieved two grade 9s in maths and science combined, three grade 7s and three grade 5s with which they have decided to continue their study with A-levels in maths, economics and business at Carmel Catholic College.

• Mollie Huckle plans to study combined English, psychology and criminology at Carmel Catholic College after having achieved a grade 9 in English literature, two grade 7s and five grade 6s.

Mr Lee Peachey added: “To all our students embarking on the next chapter of their education, whether it’s in sixth form, college, or through an apprenticeship, we wish you all the best.

“You are all extraordinary, inspiring, and gifted young individuals who embody our values of love, inspiration, empowerment, and joy each day. We couldn’t be prouder of your accomplishments.”

The Academy of St Nicholas celebrate remarkable success on GCSE results day

The Academy of St Nicholas, Garston, is celebrating another successful year of GCSE results.

On 24 August, students and their families came into the academy to collect the all-important envelopes which contained their results.

Olamide Adeleke performed particularly well across all subjects achieving grade 8s in science, engineering, business and religious education. Olamide also achieved grade 7s in maths and English because of her commitment and dedication to her studies.

Hard-working and dedicated student, Alan Korshid, performed above his targets in many subjects achieving grade 8s in English language, English literature, and religious education. He has also achieved grade 7s in combined science and computer science.

The above students, and many others, will continue their studies at All Saints Sixth Form College in September. The sixth form is located on the same campus as the academy. Many students have overcome personal challenges to achieve excellent results. Ethan Newton is just one of these students. Despite significant personal obstacles he faced, he has shown great resilience to achieve positive outcomes across all subjects.

Others will embark on apprenticeships or join the world of work.

Headteacher, Mr Gary Lloyd, commented: “I am enormously proud of this year’s cohort. To see a continued improvement in exam results is testament to their hard work and dedication during their time here at the academy.

“I would like to thank our students, families and our superb team of teachers for their commitment to learning at The Academy of St Nicholas. I look forward to seeing some familiar faces in September as they join All Saints Sixth Form College and begin their A-level and BTEC journeys.”

The Academy of St Nicholas is part of All Saints Multi Academy Trust.

Education Matters by Satis Education

Why education across the Archdiocese means so much to us

Satis Education is a business thoroughly committed to the Liverpool City Region. Whilst we are proud to serve clients nationally, from Newcastle to Newquay, our hearts (and head office!) will always be in Merseyside. And there’s one very clear reason for this…..the excellent Catholic education our founding directors (and other members of our team) received from Archdiocesan schools.

For us, our education was about more than just achieving results, it was about developing a strong understanding of Catholic values, communicated through effective Catholic Social Teaching.

When Satis Education was founded, uppermost in our minds was how we could continue to uphold these values, most obviously we have always focused on the dignity of work and the rights of workers.

As an ethical organisation all members of the team sign up to the core mission to support the delivery of a world class education for every child, regardless of background and ability. This is achieved by working collaboratively with partner schools and trusts. In return, as an employer we are committed to supporting in any way we can the well-being of every member of our team.

Key members of the Satis team who are currently supporting schools and trusts across the Archdiocese include:

Founding Director – Laura McGunigle

Laura has a background in education recruitment and consultancy, focusing on executive leadership roles nationally, but specifically within the Catholic sector. In her spare time, she is a school governor and has experience in both primary and secondary settings. laura@satiseducation.co.uk

Associate Director – Jenna Everett

Jenna has worked in the education sector across the North West for over 10 years. Her area of expertise is teacher recruitment: including permanent, interim and short-term supply. Jenna is committed to ensuring schools across the region have access to the best staff available. jenna@ satiseducaion.co.uk

For more information on our ethical approach to recruitment across this education sector please feel free to contact me helen@satiseducation.co.uk or any member of our team.

A-level and GCSE success at Sacred Heart Catholic Academy

Students at Sacred Heart Catholic Academy in Crosby received excellent A-level and GCSE results this year.

The school achieved an A-level pass rate of 97%, with almost 40% securing the highest A* – B grades.

All students are going on to university, training or employment destinations, with many securing places at the UK’s leading universities including the University of Oxford, University of Liverpool and University of Manchester where they will study a range of courses from medicine to cyber security.

Headteacher of Sacred Heart, Mark O’Hagan, said: “We are delighted that so many Sacred Heart students have achieved so highly. We are particularly pleased to see the overall pass rate improve to 97%. The number of students achieving the top grades of A*-B has reached almost 40% in a year when fewer top grades have been awarded across the country.

“The A-level results are testament to the students’ dedication and hard-working attitude, the high quality of teaching here at Sacred Heart and the outstanding individual support we offer all students to reach their potential.”

St Augustine of Canterbury students celebrate GCSE results

Students from St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Academy in St Helens have been celebrating another great set of GCSE results this year.

The results are testimony to the hard work of St Augustine of Canterbury students and staff – and underline the school’s determination to help every student achieve the highest possible standards. Many will now progress on to their career choices, or on to further education.

Students who had a particularly good day included Adam Hale, Reece Holden, Baser Anil, Viktoria Mileva, Mia Smee and Rebecca Topping. These students gained some outstanding results including 27 grade 9s.

Headteacher of the school, Giselle Lynch, said: “The past few years have presented many challenges. Our young people have worked hard to ensure that they have the qualifications needed for them to progress to the next stage in their education or to secure employment.

“We are pleased to celebrate their success and wish them well for the future.”

On GCSE results day, the majority of students achieved good GCSEs including English and mathematics. Most students are going on to sixth form, training or employment destinations, with many pupils achieving the top grades in their chosen subjects.

Some success stories include Olivia Scoggins who achieved two grade 9s, six grade 8s and one distinction*, while Benjamin Cowan achieved a grade 9, five grade 8s, two grade 7s and one grade 6.

Associate headteacher, Ed Cassidy, stated: “It is heartwarming to see so many children reaping the rewards of their hard work, this allows them to progress on to the next stages of their education with many choosing to stay within the Sacred Heart family, this is a testament to the pastoral care and attention they have received over the past 5 years.”

“The results are testament to the students’ dedication and hard-working attitude, the high quality of teaching here at Sacred Heart and the outstanding individual support we offer all students to reach their potential.”

Delight at St John Bosco Arts College for A-level and GCSE results

Sixth form students celebrated their A-level results at the school with some fantastic student success stories.

Millie Pates McAllister gained A*, A and A in biology, chemistry and philosophy religion and ethics.

While Bosco’s head girl, Olivia Tinsely, was thrilled to learn she achieved distinction, A, B after studying criminology, business studies and geography. She said: “I was nervous coming in today, but I’m so pleased with my results. I can’t wait to start university in September.”

Business studies appeared to be a popular choice among students at the Croxteth-based school, with a whopping 85% of students achieving either double distinction* or double distinction.

Students chose to pursue a range of pathways, including university degrees, apprenticeships, employment and further education college courses.

Year 13 student, Sarah Sant, has chosen to kick-start her career with a teaching assistant apprenticeship at Toxteth-based school, Windsor Primary.

At the school, there was also plenty of celebration for Year 11 students who were receiving their GCSE results.

Alexsandra Stanek who plans to continue their studies at St John Bosco, achieved fantastic results,

including a grade 9 in Spanish and five 8s including sciences and English.

Endurance Oka Inomwan also plans to continue their studies at St John Bosco and was delighted to achieve six grades above a 7, including Spanish, maths, English and science.

A large proportion of students have decided to remain at the school to complete their A-levels, which is undoubtedly a testament to the supportive and nurturing environment to school has worked so hard to create.

Headteacher, Mr Darren Gidman, said: “With immense joy and pride, we celebrated A-level and GCSE results. At St John Bosco Arts College, our shared vision and values have guided us on this journey, inspiring us to flourish in faith, hope, and love.”

“Congratulations to the class of 2023. We wish you the best of luck for the future.”

Ministerial approval gives green light to archdiocesan plans for SJCMAT

Following a successful pilot project evaluation, ministerial approval has been granted to continue the success of St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust. The approval means the trust may continue to onboard sponsored academies that need more support, until December 2024, as well as converter academies. St Joseph CMAT will then become CMAT 10 as a central Liverpool Trust.

There are currently seven academies within the trust who are aligned around the mission to ‘transform children’s lives through a world-class, Catholic education’.

Andrew Truby, CEO of St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust, said: “We believe firmly that all of our children are entitled to access an ambitious curriculum and excellent teaching, which allows them to achieve and exceed national expectations.

“Regardless of the starting points, everyone involved in St Joseph CMAT is highly committed to the pursuit of high achievement and aims for our academies’ performance to be above the national average in all measures, including and especially in religious education.”

Notre Dame College

Notre Dame Catholic College in Liverpool will soon join St Joseph CMAT as its third secondary school.

Ann Connor OBE, chair of St Joseph CMAT Board said: “I am delighted to welcome Notre Dame Catholic College to our family of schools. Women in my family had been educated by Notre Dame sisters for three generations when I became a pupil at Mount Pleasant.”

In 2023, schools and colleges returned to their pre-pandemic standards for GCSEs and A-levels. Catholic schools across the archdiocese and further afield marked this achievement with joyous celebrations. See our gallery of photos capturing the memorable moments of students, teachers, and parents.

It was a busy and exciting day at Cardinal Heenan Catholic High School on A-level results day

Serena Tang (left) and Jasmine Law who achieved excellent A-level results. They arrived in the UK from Hong Kong two years ago

Uliana Protsenko celebrating success in GCSE Russian which she took at St Mary’s Crosby in the summer aged just 13

There was lots of happy smiles between students on GCSE results day at St Cuthbert’s

Students at Christ the King Catholic High School were joined by proud relatives on GCSE results day

Students and parents alike rejoiced on GCSE results day at St Cuthbert’s Catholic High School

Students from Christ the King Catholic High School in Southport pose with their A-level results

St John Rigby A-level students celebrate with principal Peter McGhee

SFX student Max Devlin who will be studying criminology and psychology at Liverpool John Moores University

Head boy of The Academy of St Francis of Assisi, Mazen Daham, and his dad on GCSE results day

SFX was full of happy faces on GCSE results day

A big smile from this Sacred Heart Catholic Academy student on GCSE results day

(L-R) Isaac and Noah achieved excellent GCSE grades and will attend St John Plessington’s sixth form

Head girl of The Academy of St Francis of Assisi, Annaelle Mbolokele, on GCSE results day

Lexie Harmon, Rebeca McBride, Francesca Burt, Amber Murray, Olivia Pruden from St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Academy

Chloe from Sacred Heart Catholic Academy was happy on A-level results day

Reece Holden (head boy), Giselle Lynch (headteacher), Viktoria Mileva (head girl) from St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Academy

All Saints Sixth Form College student Clara stands proud on A-level results day

Catholic Pictorial

And relax: a group of Maricourt Catholic High School students sitting together after collecting their A-level results

The Academy of St Nicholas student, Olamide, and mum, look at Olamide’s results on GCSE results day

Cara O’Sullivan from St Julie’s Catholic High School with her GCSE results

St Mary’s Catholic College, Wallasey, student Justin Feeley on GCSE results day

St John Bosco Arts College student, Alexsandra Stanek, holding her GCSE results

Sarah Sant from St John Bosco Arts College opening her A-level results

Some students from The De La Salle Academy were clearly very happy with their GCSE results

St John Rigby A-level students Lexie Hanton, who is off to the University of Birmingham to study international business, left, and Izzy Garbutt, who is to study history at Oxford

Chloe from St Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic Academy with her GCSE results

Head boy and head girl of St Edmund Arrowsmith stand proudly with their GCSE results

Why Lourdes centenary fills me with hope for the future

By the time you read this, the suntans may have faded, the insect bites stopped itching, the tiredness abated – and the inevitable Lourdes-lurgy subsided. Yet I hope the memories of Lourdes 2023 will still remain.

At times it seemed like much of the diocese had descended on the small town of Lourdes as Liverpool took over the shrine for our centenary pilgrimage. I wondered through the week about those first pilgrims from 1923 and the story they had started: could they have had any inkling that their journey would be a part of the life of the diocese 100 years later, still offering hope, joy, nourishment and healing to the people of Liverpool?

For the youth pilgrimage, it was a refrain we kept coming back to through the week: that we had to be thankful for all those pilgrims that

had come before us and laid the foundations for us to be able to travel to Lourdes and spend the week with each other. But, just as importantly, we had also to think about what we could do to ensure that the next generation of pilgrims would be able to enjoy the experience as much as we have done.

It was our challenge to reflect on what had come before – as we sang often and loudly through the week, ‘We are counting every blessing’ – yet at the same time to ensure that we are not the end point of a journey that began 100 years ago. We sought to consider what we can do to ensure those children too young to go to Lourdes today will be able to enjoy the pilgrimage in 10 years’ time, to think about those generations still to be born and how we are the living stones

building the Church into which they will eventually become a part.

And if there were any doubt among the youth pilgrims we took to Lourdes that we are part of something bigger, part of the wider Church (as the theme of Lourdes asked us to ponder), then the number and diversity of those that were in Lourdes should have provided the answer. Indeed I do hope the pilgrimage photo will be in the Pic so you can see how we almost did not fit onto the sanctuary steps! I think I am balanced on one leg toward the back as there was not enough room for me to sneak on!

It was also great to see us joined by so many pilgrims who had asked for assistance. Sometimes, with so many on the Youth Pilgrimage and fewer assisted pilgrims, we have looked for additional things for our young people to do. But not this year. I expect there will have been some tired young pilgrims heading for home – no chance of ice-cream breaks in the afternoon this year!

My hope and prayer now has got to be that, as all of those extras we might associate with Lourdes are packed away for another year, the essential message of the pilgrimage and the shrine remains in the hearts and minds of those that made the trip to Lourdes – and that the centenary pilgrimage of 2023 marks the start of another cycle of 100 years as the Church continues to be built around us.

Father Simon Gore, director of the Liverpool Youth Pilgrimage, reflects on Lourdes 2023.

Mums the Word

A Walshingham pilgrimage packed with blessings

The annual Union of Catholic Mothers Pilgrimage to Walsingham took place at the start of July and all of our ladies had a wonderful time.

The UCM’s Walsingham pilgrimage was first held in July 1946 and it has taken place annually ever since, aside from a Covid-caused hiatus between 2019-21. This year was our 76th pilgrimage and the theme was ‘Mary of Nazareth’.

At the Service of Light on the evening of Monday 3 July, Bishop Emeritus Tom Williams said: ‘Mary is a sign of hope and comfort for us on our pilgrim way. She goes before us on the journey to our Father who is in heaven; she was taken up into heaven to be the beginning pattern of the Church in its perfection. We gladly follow her, the perfect pilgrim, who walks before us on the path of discipleship laid out by Jesus, her Son’.

After the service and Benediction we joined in the procession along the holy mile, ending with night prayers in the gardens at the back of the pilgrim bureau.

On Tuesday after Mass, those who could walk the holy mile did so in silent prayer. When we arrived at the Abbey grounds, each diocese had their petitions read out by a national officer; we remembered our Liverpool seminarians and asked for an increase in membership. After national president Joan Hodge had led us in our UCM prayer, she gave an address, which was followed by the renewal of commitment and then the Blessing of the Sick and Benediction.

It was a beautiful and prayerful pilgrimage, with thanks given to God and his Holy Mother for the many blessings we receive. On Wednesday, Father David Potter celebrated our departure Mass at the shrine before we travelled on to the seaside town of Cromer for a couple of hours before the journey home.

We were delighted to see another Liverpool UCM member honoured for her commitment to charity work and volunteering to help the food banks in the area. Margaret Kirkby from Saint Thomas of Canterbury parish recently received the Benemerenti Medal for her 62 years as a UCM member. Her achievements in that time include abseiling down the side of the Anglican Cathedral three times to raise funds for charity – something many of us would be barely willing to do once, let alone three times! You can read more about this in the news section of the Pic.

On a sad note, Archdiocesan secretary Lucy Thornhill passed away recently and all our thoughts and prayers are with her family. Please spare in your prayers too our Archdiocesan treasurer, Nina Deus, who has been in hospital after a fall. We wish her a speedy recovery.

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

Knights play their part in pilgrimage

As is the case every summer, the Knights of Saint Columba were well represented in Lourdes on the Archdiocese of Liverpool’s centenary pilgrimage.

Of the 16 members of the Order who travelled to Lourdes to help the assisted pilgrims, eight were from council 584 (Aintree) which each year raises funds to help people attend the pilgrimage. As per tradition, they came together on Wednesday 26 July to say their annual rosary for deceased Brothers and their family members at the Blessed Sacrament altar across the river from the Grotto. Bishop Emeritus Tom Williams joined them for the rosary while Deacon Paul Whitehead, chaplain to council 9, offered his prayers too.

• As mentioned in last month’s Pic, Brother Justin Malewezi was ordained as a deacon at the Metropolitan Cathedral on Sunday 16 July during a Mass celebrated by Bishop Thomas Neylon, the national ecclesiastical adviser to the Order.

• It is with deep regret that we report the death at the age of 101 of Mrs Joan Harrington, the mother of our provincial chaplain, Father Dunstan Harrington. We extend our deepest sympathy to Fr Dunstan at this time of sorrow and offer him our prayers and support in coming to terms with his great loss.

• Congratulations to Deacon William Ball of council 146 (Southport) who has celebrated 50 years’ membership of the Order. He was presented with a golden jubilee medal and certificate by Archbishop Malcolm McMahon at the annual provincial dinner in June.

• The KSC was among the groups recognised for their efforts to support the diocesan ‘#Liverpool4ukraine’ appeal. On a thanksgiving visit to Liverpool, the Ukrainian-Greek Catholic Bishop Gregory Komar attended a service at the St Margaret Clitherow Centre, the hub for the collecting and packaging of aid parcels to Ukraine, on 31 July. He expressed heartfelt thanks for all the help given and highlighted his appreciation with the gift of beautifully illustrated certificates to all the members of the groups.

Websites: www.ksc.org.uk

www.kscprov02.weebly.com

Email: dpokeane@aol.com

Nugent Events Update

within our communities, alleviate poverty, and contribute to healthier and happier lives for many.

Good Shepherd Appeal Raises over £20,000 for Families in Crisis

We are overwhelmed by the fantastic amount raised from this year’s Good Shepherd Appeal. With all the participating schools’ fantastic fundraising efforts, the grand total raised comes to an astounding £20,716.19! Thank you to the pupils, teachers, and parents who got involved; your creativity in raising funds for Nugent was truly remarkable. We saw so many incredible ideas that children and staff could take part in including sponsored walks with Woolly the Sheep, ‘Back to Front’ day, odd socks day, penalty shoot-outs, wacky hair day, cake sales, raffles, and throwing water balloons at teachers!

The funds raised through the schools’ generosity and hard work will make a huge difference in the lives of children and families facing challenging times. We are privileged to have such compassionate and dedicated students in our community.

To find out more about this year’s Good Shepherd Appeal, visit: wearenugent. org/news/good-shepherd-appealraises-over-20000-for-families-in-crisis

Many families are facing extreme hardship, uncertain of when their next meal will be or struggling to pay their electricity bills. Basic essentials have become a luxury, and some are forced to choose between heating and eating. But with your help, we can change that. Funds raised will be dedicated to tackling all forms of poverty, extending our welfare support, and supporting our ‘crisis fund’ to assist families in urgent need of essential items. Secure your place by purchasing your tickets today! Together, we can work towards a brighter future for all families affected by these challenging times.

To buy tickets, visit: https://wearenugent. org/fundraising/events/gala.

Normandie Wragg Chief Executive Nugent

Jo Henney Chief Executive Officer Nugent

Nugent’s Commitment to Alleviate Poverty in Our Communities

As we continue to navigate the challenges posed by the rising cost of living in the UK in 2023, the importance of the services provided by Nugent cannot be overstated. We understand that many families are facing difficulties in making ends meet, and it is our mission to stand with you and help alleviate poverty within our local communities.

Support our Sahara Desert Trek Challenge: 12 to 18 November 2023

Our fundraisers are well on their way with their training for their 100km trek across the Sahara Desert in aid of Nugent. With 3 months left until the big event in November, they have been getting their steps in and going the extra mile to replicate the demanding conditions of the Sahara Desert. From sand dunes to breathtaking beaches, and even the vast expanse of the Nevada desert, they are leaving no stone unturned!

The group will be facing a 7-day trek up sand dunes and through the valleys of the Sahara Desert. Our fundraisers will need to be fighting fit to handle the gruelling challenge and have been training for it with 15km hikes, strenuous hill climbs, and adventurous walks across Windermere.

The Nugent Pantry has been a beacon of hope and support for families and individuals in need during this time. Located in St Anne’s Church, Overbury Street, Liverpool, and open every Tuesday from 1pm to 3pm, the Pantry plays a crucial role in strengthening communities and building friendships, all while addressing the pressing issue of food poverty. Through a small weekly subscription, our members gain access to fresh fruits, vegetables, and store cupboard essentials, often valued at £15-20 or more. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers, we have been able to provide nutritious food and support to 2,386 people between 2021 and 2022.

Building on the success of the Nugent Pantry, I am thrilled to announce our latest initiative, the Hygiene Hub. We understand that hygiene poverty can have a devastating impact on health and mental wellbeing, affecting self-confidence, employability, and social interaction. The shame and humiliation experienced by those who cannot afford basic hygiene products should not be a burden they have to bear.

Tickets on sale for our Nugent Gala: 9 November 2023

Tickets for our annual Nugent Gala, sponsored by Krol Corlett Construction, are on sale now! Taking place at the Rum Warehouse, Titanic Hotel, the evening will include welcome drinks, a threecourse meal, and live entertainment. By purchasing a ticket, you will be making a significant difference in the lives of those in need. Your support will help Nugent develop vital services

At Nugent, we provide services from beginning to end of life and everything in between. Our supporters will be raising funds for projects close to their hearts - from packages for families fleeing domestic abuse, sensory spaces at our dementia home, and outdoor gym areas at our secure home, to strengthening our communities. If you are inspired by their efforts and would like to contribute to our Sahara Trek Challenge appeal, please visit: https://localgiving.org/appeal/ saharatrek2023/

Help us continue our mission of caring for, educating, and protecting those in need.

The Hygiene Hub, situated within the Nugent Pantry, will offer essential products such as shampoo, body wash, period products, nappies, and toothpaste to families and individuals who would otherwise go without. Our aim is to ensure that no one in our local communities faces the indignity of hygiene poverty any longer. We believe that access to basic hygiene products is a fundamental right, and we are committed to making this a reality for those in need.

This is where we need your help. Are you part of a parish, school, or business that is willing to set up a Donation Drop Point? By becoming a part of this network, you can help Nugent break the cycle of hygiene poverty and have a profound impact on the lives of those in need. Reach out to us at fundraising@wearenugent.org or call 0151 261 2000 to join the movement and become a Hygiene Hub Donation Drop Point.

Together, we can create a community where no one is left behind; where dignity, respect, and care are accessible to all. As the CEO of Nugent, I am immensely proud of the work we do, but I am even more proud to be a part of a community that stands together to make a positive change.

Dialogue and Unity Prisons Week

England

It started as the Prisoners’ Week Committee, comprising prison chaplains and other Christians involved in work with prisoners and their families and –beginning with a prayer and information leaflet – it sought to encourage prayer within churches and the wider Christian community for the needs of prisoners.

Initially it was a Roman Catholic initiative, started by Bishop Victor Guazzelli, an Auxiliary Bishop of Westminster from 1970-96, who had a passion for lay involvement and social justice and was president of Pax Christi. It rapidly gained ecumenical support and became an annual observance, receiving the patronage of church leaders and Churches Together in England.

In 1993 Prisoners’ Week became a registered charity. In 1995 it widened its scope to all those involved and affected by prison, including prisoners’ families, victims of crime, prison staff, those working in other areas of criminal justice and volunteers. It now became known as Prisons Week.

A range of organisations support Prisons Week including Pact (https:// www.prisonadvice.org.uk), a pioneering national charity previously called the Bourne Trust in honour of Cardinal Bourne (Archbishop of Westminster from 190335). Pact supports prisoners, people with convictions, and their children and families. It provides services at every stage of the criminal-justice process: in court, in prison, on release, and in the community.

dignity of every human being, whatever they may have done, and it strives to walk alongside those affected by imprisonment, for whom life may be unbearably difficult but who are nevertheless part of ‘us’. Additionally, it aims to listen to those with experience of the criminal-justice system and to ensure that their voices shape change.

Pact’s Faith in Action team work hard to empower parishes and groups to help prisoners, people with convictions and their families to feel known and loved. They will be sending packs to parishes in mid-September. For anyone wishing to start early preparations – for example, for school assemblies or Justice & Peace groups or Union of Catholic Mothers meetings – information is available at https://www.prisonsweek.org.

A prayer for Prisons Week

Lord, you offer freedom to all people. We pray for those in prison. Break the bonds of fear and isolation that exist.

Support with your love prisoners and their families and friends, prison staff and all who care.

Heal those who have been wounded by the activities of others, especially the victims of crime.

Help us to forgive one another.

To act justly, love mercy and walk humbly together with Christ

In His strength and in His Spirit, now and every day.

Amen.

Prison Sunday

Composed by Bishop Richard Moth, Bishop for Prisons

Lord Jesus Christ, you have come so that we may have life to the full. Listen to our prayers for all in prison and their families. Touched by your spirit, may they find newness of heart and be open to that new life, which is found only in you. May they know care and receive support from those around them. May they find new purpose in serving you in their brothers and sisters. Lord hear us.

Composed by Canon Paul Douthwaite, Senior Catholic prison chaplain

Father in Heaven, you sent your Son to bring light into the darkness of our hearts and minds. May His light shine upon the sinner, the prisoner, the suffering, and the outcast. We commend to Your protection all who need that light today, especially those who are in prison, separated from their families and loved ones.

We pray that, following your Son’s command, those who minister to prisoners, will be enlivened by the power of the Holy Spirit. Bring the light of Christ once more into all their lives that they may experience your love for them always. Lord hear us.

Saturday 23rd September, 10am - 12pm

Entrance Examination (2024 admissions):

Come and say hello.

At St John Bosco Arts College, our open evening is more than just an opportunity to take a look around our state-of-the-art facilities. It’s a chance to find your place, reach your goals and realise your potential in Love, Faith, Community, Respect and Hope.

Open Evening Thursday 21st September 4pm -7pm

stjohnboscoartscollege.com