Nottingham Diocesan E-News • February / Lent 2023

7PILGRIMAGES ANNOUNCEDFOR2023

LET US TURN OUR THOUGHTS TO THE SHRINE OF LOURDES, A PROPHETIC LESSON ENTRUSTED TO THE CHURCH FOR OUR MODERN TIMES.

Message for 31st World Day of Prayer For The Sick, Pope Francis

Ideas, reflections and opportunities for Lenten Discipleship. See inside...

"Grantvictoryoverthe powersofevilthathave arisenandblessUkrainewith yourgiftsofliberty,peace, tranquility,andgoodfortune."

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

A warm welcome to this month’s edition of our diocesan E-news I am pleased to say that I have now begun another systematic visitation of the parishes throughout the diocese Each weekend, when I am without other commitments, I will be making a weekend visit to a parish or, as is so often the situation now, to a group of parishes or a parish with multiple churches My intention throughout the visitation is to celebrate Mass and preach, to meet parishioners, listen a lot, learn about and affirm what is happening in the parish, spend time with the clergy, and encourage people in the living out of their faith day by day

I am beginning with those parishes on the boundaries of our geographically large diocese, and then I will work inwards So far, in these early weekends, I have visited the parish of Hadfield, which also serves Charlesworth, Bourne, which also serves Deeping St James, Matlock and Hassop, and I am shortly to visit Ashbourne, which also serves Wirksworth I have been very impressed and encouraged by the variety of ways in which parishioners individually, and collectively, are living out their faith, in a variety of practical ways, in support of local activities which serve the wider community, especially the disadvantaged It is heartening to see from the Parish newsletters that these practical activities are being sustained by prayer, devotions, and by opportunities for parishioners to grow in faith, particularly as the Season of Lent draws nearer Thank you

Pope Francis’ prayer intention for this month is also about parishes He asks parishes to be communities, places of listening and welcome whose doors are always open to all, where no one is excluded In his short prayer intention video*, which I would encourage you to look at, he begins with an image of a very beautiful but empty parish church; this is then followed by that of the same church full of people, and so becoming even more beautiful He notes that every parish should put a sign on their door saying, “Free Admission” Pope Francis wants to remind us that there are no special requirements for entering the parish church because, as he says, “parishes are not a club for the few which give a certain kind of social belonging ” In his vision, parishes are to be “closeknit communities, without bureaucracy, peoplecentred – a place where the gift of the sacraments can be found ” In the video we see parishes from around the world where there are talks going on, aid being distributed to those in need, visits to the elderly and the sick, and celebrations The Holy Father wants parishes to be schools of service and generosity, with their doors always open to all, especially those who feel excluded. The video is an echo of what he said in his Apostolic Exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel), in which he spoke of “the Church living in the midst of the homes of her sons and daughters” and therefore it should not become ‘a useless structure out of touch with people or a self-absorbed group made up of a chosen few”. Our diocesan theme for this part of our church year, up until Easter, is of course ‘discipleship’. Let’s pray for open hearts that the Holy Spirit will help us to discern what God is wishes to see happen in our own lives, as Christ’s disciples, and in the parishes of our diocese.

With prayerful good wishes,

Many of the articles in this publication are also available to read individually at dioceseofnottingham.uk/news

НашаЦерква • Our Church

AlmightyandGreatGod,acceptourgratitudeforyourboundlessmercy towardsus Hearthesupplicationofourafflictedheartsforthelandand peopleofUkraine,astheyconfrontforeignaggressionandinvasion.

Opentheeyesofthosewhohavebeenovertakenbyaspiritofdeception andviolence,thattheybehorrifiedbytheirworks Grantvictoryoverthe powersofevilthathavearisenandblessUkrainewithyourgiftsofliberty, peace,tranquility,andgoodfortune.

Weimploreyou,OMercifulGod,lookwithgraceuponthosewho courageouslydefendtheirland Rememberthemothersandfathers,the innocentchildren,widowsandorphans,thedisabledandhelpless,those seekingshelterandrefuge,whoreachouttoyouandtotheirfellowhuman beingslookingformercyandcompassion

Blesstheheartsofthosewhohavealreadyshowngreatgenerosityand solidarity,andthosewhopreparetoreceivetheirUkrainianbrothersand sistersinUkraine’sgreatesttimeofneed.Bringustogetherasyourchildren, yourcreation,andinstillinusyourstrength,wisdomandunderstanding May youbepraisedandglorified,nowandforever,andtotheagesofages Amen

VeryRevFrDavidJSenyk

ASFEATURED NTHEFEBRUARYUKRAINANCATHOLICCHURCHPARISHNEWSLETTERFOR COVENTRY,DERBY LEICESTER,NOTTINGHAM LINCOLN WOLVERHAMPTON,NORTHAMPTON,BRMINGHAM(asseenbeow)

DISCIPLESHIP THE EDIT

We outline the must-haves for Spring 2023, Lent, and 'discipleship'. The Diocese of Nottingham has three pastoral themes which help us set a rhythm and pace to our year, directing the way we pray, worship and live The current focus being Discipleship, so here's what's on offer in and out of the Diocese of Nottingham!

Are you a young person considering how to grow in discipleship and holiness?

Contact Nottingham Diocesan Catholic Youth Service to find out more about opportunities in Youth Ministry and formation including Gap Years and retreats.

Years 10-12! Look into applying to be part of theAscent, a three year discipleship process for Catholic young people who want to embrace their faith in Jesus Christ at a whole new level and learn how to share it with others At our heart we seek to disciple the few for the sake of the many so that the Gospel may reach the ends of the earth.

NET Ministries have bases in Scotland, Ireland, and across the world! The mission of NET is to encourage young people to love Jesus and embrace the life of the Church Every year we send out a team of missionaries to witness their faith and share hope with young people

Catholic Student Network is a great hub for Catholic Students in the UK, connecting, equipping and empowering students to be leaders in their local student communities.

Aged 18-35? Diocesan Young Adults' groups meet regularly in Nottingham, Derby and Scunthorpe See dioceseofnottingham uk/events or contact adult formation@dioceseofnottingham uk for more information.

Events and Retreats

Flame 2023

Saturday 4th March

Young Adults' Retreat (18+)

Saturday 11th March

organised by the Diocese of Nottingham

Men's Retreat (18+)

Saturday 18th March

organised by the Diocese of Nottingham

Women's Retreat (18+)

Saturday 25th March

organised by the Diocese of Nottingham

Youth 2000 Leeds Retreat

25th - 26th March

For ages 16 - 35

Search for the Light

6th - 9th April

A Holy Week Retreat for Young People in years 10-13 organised by Nottingham Diocesan Catholic Youth Service

Joel's Bar

9th - 14th April

An Easter Retreat for those aged 16-28

Old traditions, renewed ambitions

By Sr Susan Richert

In Warsop, refurbishment needed to be done to St Teresa's Chuch Outside, the skip was full of rubbish and one day, one of the founding members of the Café saw a young lad going through the rubble and waste, looking for food Inspired by Nano Nagle (who founded the Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, commonly known as the Presentation Sisters), and the Sisters who followed and are still following Nano, something had to be done This led to the Presentation Associates and friends in Warsop establishing a Café, open on the first Saturday of every month It took a while to get going, but before the “lockdown” occurred due to COVID, they provided a hot meal for up to 50 guests This was in line with Nano’s own initiative when she and the first 3 Sisters hosted Christmas dinner for the poor in their home

In October 2022, the Associates and friends resurrected the café Each Wednesday, they provided a warm space and a hot meal After discovering that other groups were providing this on Wednesdays, they decided to move to Saturdays Now they have at least 35 guests and several other volunteers coming along, with number looking set to increase

They provide a warm space, a hot drink, social interaction and a fantastic three-course meal Nothing but the best for those who come in A pot is left out for donations, but no one is ever asked for anything The Lord does provide, and the donations put into the pot always go a good way to covering the cost of the next meal

They have recently ventured into take-aways meals, for those Parishioners who cannot - for whatever reason - come to the hall Neither is it uncommon to see people going out with a little bag, a little something to go with their cup of tea in the afternoon

What is really important is that those who are serving and those who pop in to see how things are, provide pastoral care; someone who will sit and listen. This is just as important as the meal and certainly valued.

Read online...

Four warm dinners and a very cold night

Groups of staff, clergy, and young people from across the Diocese of Nottingham came together to fight homelessness and rough sleeping this winter

The Diocese of Nottingham Curia Team came together to volunteer at a Winter Shelter organised by Emmanuel House, an independent charity that supports people who are homeless, rough sleeping, in crisis, or at risk of homelessness in Nottingham Their tasks - in groups of four - included planning and cooking a meal of choice for around 30 residents

Founded in 1976 by Father Roger Killeen, a Catholic Priest, Emmanuel House opened on Goose Gate to support people who found themselves homeless Since then, we have been striving to provide diverse and accessible services that meet basic human needs in a safe, inclusive environment At all times, we advocate in the best interests of homeless and vulnerable adults

In the midst of the staff volunteering, a group of Young People (pictured below with Bishop Patrick McKinney, Fr Simon Gillespie, Fr John Martin, and Fr Liam Carpenter) met at Holy Spirit Church West Bridgford on a chilly December evening with an even colder night outdoors ahead of them With a small fire, some boxes, and only a few snacks to sustain them, the group felt they had only a glimpse of the realities of rough sleeping as a young person The funds raised from their efforts and endurance were in support of the UK's leading youth homelessness charity 'Centrepoint', who provide homeless young people with accommodation, health support and life skills in order to get them back into education, training and employment.

Tributes to Pope Benedict XVI

"An abiding memory I will have of Pope Benedict is how his quiet humility, warm charm, gentle eloquence, and love of Christ won over the hearts of the British people during his visit to the UK in 2010. May he rest forever in God’s merciful love

On behalf of the Catholic Diocese of Nottingham, I wish to express our sadness at hearing of the death of Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI May Christ Jesus, whom he served so generously, give him rest after his labours Prayers and Masses will be offered for his happy repose in God’s eternal and merciful love "

Bishop Patrick McKinney

Light Up The Night!

By The Friends of St Barnabas (The Friends of Nottingham Cathedral)

Over 2000 people were welcomed to Nottingham Cathedral as part of the city’s official ‘ Light Night’ trail

Nottingham Cathedral joined the ‘Nottingham Light Night’ trail for the first time this year, offering visitors an immersive light and sound experience which showcased the beauty of this A W N Pugin gem As part of this popular after dark festival, now in its 15th year, the Cathedral welcomed nearly 2000 visitors over the evenings of the 3-4th February, with many visitors having never visited the Cathedral before

An annual fixture on the Nottingham scene, Light Night offers many immersive and interactive light-based installations, performances and activities across the city The event aims to offer high-quality art within the city, and encourage residents to see the city in a different light and open buildings which may usually be inaccessible at night Responding to this brief, ‘The Friends of the Cathedral’ in collaboration with Cathedral parishioners and the Cathedral music department, found itself on the official app, map and trail with the promise of a ‘Gothic Extravaganza’ for visitors

A simple yet spectacular light installation and experience was offered to visitors, highlighting the beauty of this A W N Pugin masterpiece The stunning arches and chapels were illuminated with beautiful colours, highlighting the depths and heights of this Gothic Revival build There were gasps of joy as newcomers walked through this captivating experience Those familiar with the Cathedral commented on how the lighting had moved the space from two-dimensional to something much more threedimensional Throughout the evening, visitors were treated to choral and organ performances, with a number of visitors commenting that the music really completed the experience for them As visitors passed the Sanctuary on their way out, they were offered the opportunity to light a candle- on Saturday evening, over 500 candles were aglow on the Sanctuary steps. Many were visibly moved by the beauty and splendour of what a number of visitors called a ‘hidden gem’ in the city, and volunteers were encouraged to do more to share and showcase it.

The evening provided an opportunity to share something of the history of the Cathedral and the ambitious plans to ‘Restore Pugin’ to the east-end chapels and ambulatories, thanks to a generous grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.1 Light Night was an opportunity to begin to open the Cathedral doors to even more people in the City and further afield, letting them know this precious sacred space is open and accessible to all. The Cathedral is an important part of Nottingham’s story, and it wants to be an important part of people’s lives across the City, County and region, offering a place of peace, beauty and sanctuary amidst an often busy and frenetic urban life. The weekend has certainly set the bar high in terms of future events the Friends, Cathedral and Diocese have planned this coming year!

Read online...

Light Night at Nottingham Cathedral

Photo by Francesca Rachel Hyde

5 Lent-enhancing ideas

Lent is the perfect season to work on our own discipleship How close are we to Jesus? Do we know and listen to the voice of God? Are we led by the Holy Spirit in our daily lives? We asked some readers what their top tips for Lent would be

"'Catechism in a Year' with Fr Mike Schmitz, or 'Bible in a Year'. They're both available as podcasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and on YouTube too. You could listen alone or as part of a group. I'll be listening every morning or evening!"

See: media ascensionpress com/category/ascensionpodcasts/catechisminayear/

"Why not start a prayer group with some friends, parishioners or neighbours? It could even be on WhatsApp (other messaging services are available!)..."

"Pray! Pray about what the Lord is inviting you to give up, do, or focus on this Lent. Practise listening to God, He always has something new to say to you!"

"Fundraise by challenging yourself and take on The Big Lent Walk! Walk when and where you choose over 40 days, alone or with friends. Raise money to help people as they overcome poverty."

See cafod org uk/fundraise/big-lent-walk

"I was looking for some new ways to fast this Lent and found that Hallow has a great article with loads of suggestions for kids and adults, as well as numerous prayer resources!"

See: hallow com/blog/what-to-give-up-for-lent/

"GETINVOLVED ANDMAKEA DIFFERENCE"

By Fr Jonathan Cotton, Will Cruddace & Team

My change in ministry, since retiring as a parish priest, has seen me responding to requests from parishes and schools far and wide around the great expanse of our Diocese Celebrating weekend Masses when priests are ill, or awaiting a more permanent assistant priest or having a long-awaited holiday, or when there are simply just not enough priests to cover all the weekend Masses, I have soon realised that there is never a dull moment even for a priest in retirement

On the occasional call to celebrate school Masses, it was clearly noticeable what an influence the work of CAFOD has in our schools Noticing CAFOD fundraising events, wall displays, special assemblies, and so on, promoting the Social Teaching of the Church and how to be a good Samaritan to the poorest on our common home of earth, made me realise what a crucial role CAFOD has in forming missionary hearts and minds in our Church communities. So, when I was invited to be a School Volunteer for CAFOD, visiting five local Catholic Primary Schools and one Secondary School, it did not take me long to say “yes”, especially as CAFOD provides all the training, resources and support I need for the volunteering. Being a school volunteer is only one of many volunteering opportunities to support CAFOD’s work.

CAFOD Family Fast Day Lent Appeal

This Lent, CAFOD is supporting families with the skills and tools they’ve asked for to fight the climate crisis. In Bangladesh, 14-year-old Dristy and her mum Rupali are building seed beds and planting palm trees to protect their crops from flooding and cyclones Give today to help families grow in strength to adapt to the climate crisis Use the envelope or give online at cafod org uk/lent

Fr Jonathan Cotton and fellow CAFOD volunteers

Detecting iscipleship

What is a mark of a disciple? We explore 12 marks of a disciple.

Disciples are called

Luke 5:1-11 perfectly illustrates this God always acts first! Jesus came to the fishermen and gave them an invitation God calls each of us to be disciples

Disciples intentionally respond to JESUS' call

After we are called, then a disciple must respond to the call! If Peter had not dropped his nets and followed Jesus, he would not be a disciple It's about making a choice to follow; discipleship isn't inherited or accidental!

Disciples love

This is a primary mark of a disciple Love of God and love of others Jesus says that others will know we are disciples by our love for one another (John 13:35)

Disciples are fruitful

In fact, Jesus says that being fruitful

PROVES that you are his disciple "By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be my disciples"John 15:8

Disciples are obedient

In John 15:14 you'll then find: " you are my friends if you do what I command". We can't be intimate with Jesus and be disobedient to his call and commandments

Disciples are taught

The disciples of Jesus were always learning from Him, they would listen and then try to implement the teaching in their lives The life of a disciple is one of lifelong learning, reflection and more learning

Disciples follow

The word, "disciple", means "follower" All of our life of discipleship starts with following Jesus We should love as he loved, choose what he chose and mirror his example "Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, preaching and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him"Luke 8:1

Disciples keep an eye on Heaven

The life we live now is not our final home, we are made to live with God forever in eternity Still, this heavenly home is determined by our decisions in this life The prize of heaven is a gift we must keep our eyes on, so that we don't lose the eternal perspective of God.

Disciples carry crosses

Discipleship isn't easy Jesus puts it this way, "If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me " - Luke 9:23 We should never forget that suffering is a part of discipleship It isn't merely about feel-good emotions, being happy, and good vibes.

Disciples spend time with JESUS in prayer

We need to live in intimate relationship with God, praying and listening "He was praying in a certain place, and when he ceased, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” - Luke 11:1

Disciples love and serve God (and others)

The disciples were called to serve on multiple occasions Jesus commands His twelve to be the ones to - with the God's power - serve the crowds, heal the sick, drive out demons We must remember that being a disciple is about serving God, with God, for others.

Disciples make other disciples

Ultimately, we need to "make disciples"! We should strive to have our friends, family, communities, and colleagues encounter God's love and then make a decision to follow Him, as a disciple

World Day of Prayer for the Sick

The World Day of the Sick calls for prayer and closeness towards those who suffer. Yet it also aims to raise the awareness of God’s people, healthcare institutions and civil society with regard to a new way of moving forward together.

On 11 February 2023, let us turn our thoughts to the Shrine of Lourdes, a prophetic lesson entrusted to the Church for our modern times. It is not only what functions well or those who are productive that matter. Sick people, in fact, are at the centre of God’s people, and the Church advances together with them as a sign of a humanity in which everyone is precious and no one should be discarded or left behind.

To the intercession of Mary, Health of the Sick, I entrust all of you who are ill; you who care for them in your families, or through your work, research and volunteer service; and those of you who are committed to weaving personal, ecclesial, and civic bonds of fraternity To all, I impart my heartfelt blessing.

Pope Francis, message for the 31st World Day of Prayer for the sick (2023)

Nottingham Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage 2023

In conversation with...

Who are you and what are your role(s) at the moment?

After many years of chaplaincy work in youth, education and prison settings, I have ventured into the exciting and vital work of hospital chaplaincy. No field of chaplaincy is easy, and each has its own distinctive challenges but there are similarities that have enabled me to develop the necessary creative qualities and resilience to thrive. Every day brings a new encounter, a meeting with a stranger that transforms into a precious time of faith sharing and witness: and each of these encounters has added to the joy that is my faith in Jesus

E d P i k e

It must come with some challenges, what is the biggest challenge and what can you/others do to help mitigate it?

The challenge as I see it, is to appreciate the value in every singular encounter and remain undaunted by the immense need for chaplaincy support. As part of a hospital workforce that provides countless acts of beautiful service every day, chaplains add their pieces to the giant puzzle that is healthcare, and we know and celebrate the care shown by all our colleagues.

For those feeling inspired or called to this important ministry, what sort of opportunities are there to be involved?

Volunteers make a difference. Before covid arrived, there were many volunteers visiting patients under the supervision of chaplains The role of all volunteers has gone through a drastic change since 2020, and as such, we are starting again Many volunteers were patients who have come to realise the great difference that a good conversation can make to a day in hospital The reality is that there is no particular type of person who makes a good volunteer: if you feel that you would like to give a little time as part of a regular commitment get in touch with your local hospital's volunteer services who will be glad to hear from you.

Please pray for everyone in hospital; the patients, their families and friends, all of the staff and their families, our priests who make themselves available day and night for all who call upon them in times of greatest need, and finally for our hospital chaplains and volunteers who are making a positive difference every day for those in need.

Chaplaincy Team Leader & RC Chaplain at Leicester Royal Infirmary

"VOLUNTEERSMAKEA DIFFERENCE"

"MANYVOLUNTEERSWEREPATIENTSWHO HAVECOMETOREALISETHEGREAT DIFFERENCETHATAGOODCONVERSATION CANMAKETOADAYINHOSPITAL"

Lookingback

by Christina Mottram

I had been active in my local parish, Holy Cross in Leicester, including extraordinary minister of Holy Communion for many years, then in 2005, I completed a course in Psychodynamic Counselling, having studied part-time at Vaughan College in Leicester This opened multiple possibilities, allowed me to think about my role and skills, and prompted a deeper discernment into what I needed from a job and what I could give.

In 2007 a friend told me about the role of ‘Catholic Chaplain’ which was being advertised at the University Hospitals of Leicester Knowing me well, she encouraged me to apply, and so I followed her suggestion and was later appointed Catholic Chaplain to Glenfield Hospital in December 2007. With many changes, covering hospitals that were without Chaplaincy provision, and in recent years also serving Leicestershire Partnership Trust (both at community and mental health sites) I have been proud to work in the NHS, as many of my family have done before me.

Finding that I had to learn a lot on the job, I was (and am!) frequently grateful to my colleagues who helped me, a collection of lay leaders and some ministers of other religions too In order to develop my own theological knowledge, I enrolled in the Catholic Certificate in Religious Studies with Nottingham Diocese, which turned out to be a brilliant way to learn whilst also engaging with other people working in Catholic contexts As chaplains on the ground, it was a great department to work in We met daily in the chaplaincy office, had regular staff meetings, and hosted training days with our valued volunteers whom we missed very much during COVID

Looking back, I found that God often guided me to be at the right place at the right time, as I engage with staff, patients, and visitors in the corridors, wards, and even outside the hospital I found the Hospital Chapel to be a place of peace in a busy environment, and it was a privilege to pray with and for people, including at the end of their lives, and to share Holy Communion where possible, sometimes with people who had become familiar faces over the years. The events of the past two to three years brought many changes, restricting where and with whom we could meet, but I had a strong sense of being embedded, with the staff, looking after our safety, and as Chaplains also caring for them

I have always known and felt the balance of working for both the NHS and the Catholic Church Chaplaincy is evolving, and I have always been part of a multi-faith team that shares an understanding f eeting the spiritual needs of our patients and staff In the past a Catholic Hospital Chaplain would s as well as pastoral work; but now, we are a much ordained and not, faith leaders and non-religious. We d then naturally patients and staff of the hospitals contexts too, with Prison Chaplaincy and School lled men and women committing to careers in this

As a final note, I would encourage anyone who is interested in this work to explore the possibility of a career in this field, and thank all those I have worked with over the years!

Christina Mottram

Christina Mottram retired from her Chaplaincy role at Leicester Hospitals in December 2022 after fifteen years of ministry.

A parish with a heart open to the world

Paul Bodenham, Caritas Diocese of Nottingham

When we read in the media about the controversies over immigration, it is easy to forget where the story starts In too many cases it starts with traumatised people who face near-impossible choices

There has been much debate about how to ‘stop the small boats’ Most of those crossing the Channel by such desperate and dangerous means come from modern-day Iran, Syria or Afghanistan and Eritrea, all nations riven by conflict, oppression and poverty Almost all of them claim asylum Fourfifths of all asylum claims are upheld

Pope Francis says: ‘Our response to the arrival of migrating persons can be summarized by four words: welcome, protect, promote and integrate’ (Fratelli Tutti, 129) Bishops of England and Wales recognise the need for immigration control, but criticised last year ' s new Nationality and Borders Act for failing to 'treat asylum seekers justly and honour their dignity as human persons ' The recent scheme to send some to Rwanda - and leave them there even if granted asylum – has inflicted incalculable distress Now the government has announced plans to criminalise those who arrive by boat, and any other means except the few official 'safe routes' The Jesuit Refugee Service has described the policy as 'performative cruelty' Claiming asylum is not illegal

It is possible that at least one hotel in your parish is now being used to house asylum seekers Five such hotels are reported to be in one Lincolnshire parish alone Here's a story of how the good folk of SS Peter & Paul’s parish in Earl Shilton, Leicestershire have been responding

In November parishioners heard on social media that 45 asylum seekers had been allocated to a hotel in the town They had been hastily moved there when their accommodation at the notoriously-overcrowded Manston processing centre in Kent was found to be unfit for habitation. Local councils and health services had not even been notified when rumours of the influx broke A parliamentary question from the local MP revealed that the Home Office had previously ruled the hotel in question a fire risk, making it a tempting far-right terrorist target Thankfully it has since been upgraded by new owners

Cathy Underwood, a parishioner at SS Peter & Paul’s, tells us how the parish rallied round:

"The Asylum Seekers had been provided with two sets of tracksuits and flip flops. This was all the clothes most of them had, but made them stand out in our town. We presented ourselves as members of our local Catholic Church but also wore our Street Pastors uniforms. These we felt facilitated our entry into the hotel and the trust of the Asylum Seekers.

"We asked what we could do to help They asked for clothes, especially underwear, shoes and coats We then shared their needs with the local churches using our Churches Together network, as well as our own. A lead group, of which we are a part, was then set up to disseminate information to our local churches, Town Council, community leaders and our MP’s office It was important that accurate information was shared to counter local rumours and misunderstandings!

"They are now fully clothed and other concerns are now being addressed, for instance with health, boredom and education They have accepted our church’s invitation to our Home from Home days [the parish's ' warm hub'] and a social evening. Other churches have also extended welcome to their services We tried to make Christmas special by providing a tree, lights and presents English lessons will start next week!!"

That was in January. A month later the Home Office placed more guests at the hotel, from North Africa, Afghanistan, Syria and Egypt Once again, parishioners swung into action to provide clothes and other essentials, only to discover that all 49 guests were moved out as suddenly as they had arrived, leaving local helpers bewildered Cathy reports:

“Our new friends were as upset as we were They were given only a few hours notice of their move and not much information about where they were to be placed and were then taxied to their new accommodation They have been scattered around the Midlands! No account was taken of the relationships and friendships they had made while at the hotel! The time of farewells was painful for all of us!”

At least we can be sure that, thanks to the efforts of parishioners and their friends, they will remember their time there for the humanity of its people. In Earl Shilton Christ in the merciful met Christ in the poor

There are many ways in which your parish can respond to the needs of those who come to our shores. Here are some possibilities:

If your parish runs a ‘warm hub' or drop-in, invite people from overseas Host English conversation sessions to aid integration and language-learning

Write to your MP, and perhaps meet them to express your concern

Help to develop a Community Sponsorship scheme in your neighbourhood

Develop a partnership between your parish and a local refugee support charity

Not everyone comes to the diocese to seek asylum Most have arrived through official mechanisms for economic reasons Often they, too, experience exclusion and racism in the UK Many of them are Catholics who bring vibrancy and colour to our parishes and help to enrich our economy

In Caritas we would like to bring people together who wish to support asylum seekers, refugees and migrants Let’s build a hospitable Church Whether you are experienced in volunteering with refugees, a migrant yourself, or just want to help, join us on 28 February

We are hosting a conversation at 7.00 p.m. for anyone who would like to make a difference, so that Caritas can offer the support you need. Book at bit.ly/CaritasOpenHearts or email me at caritas@dioceseofnottingham.uk.

Music in the Diocese of Nottingham

Diocesan Choir Workshop, Mass and Concert

Saturday 11th (Workshop 10am-5pm)/Sunday 12th March (Rehearsal

10:00, Mass 11:15, Concert after Mass) St Mary’s Church Loughborough

LE11 3AB

The Diocesan Director of Music, Gregory Treloar, will lead a varied workshop bringing together musicians form across the diocese All interested or active in church music are welcome to join to learn about music in the liturgy and how to elevate worship through music Gregory will lead seminars on music resources, Gregorian chant, the choral repertoire and choral conducting This is a brilliant opportunity to make friends and connections as we come together to share our experiences of music in church.

Attendance is free but please note that lunch is not provided. On Sunday, participants are welcome to sing at Mass with the Cathedral Choir, followed by a short performance and refreshments.

Lenten chamber music concert

Thursday 23rd March (7pm), St Barnabas’ Cathedral Nottingham NG1 5AE

An opportunity to hear members of the Cathedral Choir sing a selection of solemn music for Lent, in the surroundings of Nottingham Cathedral. The concert will be accompanied by the Cathedral’s brand-new chamber organ and Tim Edwards on bass viol. Music to include excerpts from Handel’s Brockes Passion, as well as motets by Lotti and Dering Tickets available from Cathedral house or cathedralmusic@dioceseofnottingham uk

Diocesan Choir sing the Chrism Mass

Sunday 26th March (rehearsal 2-5pm)/Wednesday 5th April (rehearsal 10:00, Mass 11:30), St Barnabas’ Cathedral Nottingham NG1 5AE

A chance to sing at Nottingham Cathedral for one of the most important Diocesan occasions of the year. All are welcome to join the Diocesan choir for the Chrism Mass, to be celebrated by Bishop Patrick on Wednesday 5th April. This experience will allow those participating to learn new repertoire appropriate to the Lenten season and sing alongside members of the Cathedral Choir.

To get in touch about any of the above events, please email cathedralmusic@dioceseofnottingham.uk

TEA-TIME BRAIN TEASERS

Lots of the answers to these questions appear within this publication! So, if you don't know, have a flick through and you'll find what you ' re looking for!

Lourdes

Warm Space

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The little quiz

The Feast of Our lady of Lourdes is celebrated on...

A) January 1st

B) February 11th

C) August 15th

Which month is this year ' s Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage?

A) July B) April

C) November

How many pilgrimages are advertised in the 2023 Pilgrimage Poster?

A) 4

B) 10

C) 7

Approximately how many people passed through St Barnabas Cathedral at the recent Light Night?

A) 250 B) 2000

C) 1000

Blurred lines

Who is this photo of?

CLUE - they appear in an article titled "GET INVOLVED AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE"

Where in the world?

Where, in the Diocese of Nottingham, was this photo taken?

WOMEN'S Retreat

After the great success of last year ' s Lent retreat and autumn gathering we are delighted to offer again a retreat day for women in the Diocese of Nottingham.

Join women from across the diocese on Saturday 25th March in prayer and reflection at the Rosmini House of Prayer. The retreat day will be led by Sr Ann Swailes OP, with times of reflection, prayer, socialising, and we will be joined by Fr Colin Patey for confession and the celebration of Mass

Sr Ann is a Dominican Sister based in Cambridge and is the Assistant Chaplain at the University of Cambridge. She is an experienced retreat leader and speaker. As the retreat takes place on the feast of the Annunciation we will be reflecting on how we can come to know and accept God's will for us

The cost of the day will be £20 which includes breakfast, lunch and refreshments The day will beginning at 9:30AM and will finish at 4:00PM Visit dioceseofnottingham.uk/events/womensretreat by 15th March to book your place.

(Please note this retreat is only for women over the age of 18)

Diocesan Matters

Revised Pattern of Deaneries

On the patronal solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, 8th December, Bishop Patrick established a revised pattern of deaneries for the parishes and communities of our diocese View the new pattern at dioceseofnottingham uk

Welcome to the Diocese of Nottingham!

We welcome into the diocese Father Joseph Mugara, who will be undertaking a sabbatical, and based at Sacred Heart parish, Leicester

Father Joseph writes:

I am Father Joseph Mugara, born in 1974, and ordained in 2004 for the Diocese of Gokwe in Zimbabwe I worked in Gokwe Diocese for four years before going for studies at Urbaniana University in Italy for two years I taught in the Seminary from 2010 to 2014 before returning to complete my studies between 2014 and 2016. I became the rector of the National Seminary from thenuntil2022.

A New Vicar General!

I am very grateful to Canon John Kyne who has accepted to be ap pointed as the new Vicar General, working alongside Canon Eddy Jarosz, and also a member of the Diocesan Board of Trustees. He will ‘shadow’ until Easter the work of Canon Joe in the role of Vicar General so as to help enable a good handover.

New Episcopal Vicar For Clergy

I am also very grateful to Father Paul Newman who has agreed to take on the role of Episcopal Vicar for Clergy from Canon John Kyne. He will shortly begin this role.

Bishop Patrick thanks Canon Joe Wheat

"I would like to take this opportunity to recognise Canon Joe’s significant and generous contribution to thelifeandgovernanceofourdioceseoverthepastfive years and more I wish to acknowledge the work he undertook not only in the bringing together of the parishes which now form Holy Family, Nottingham, but also his enthusiasm for, and commitment to, the many initiatives he has been involved in across the dioceseasaVicarGeneral"

A new face at St Hugh's House

Welcome to Alan Booth, who recently joined the diocesan team at St Hugh's House as Safeguarding Officer, working alongside Rachael and Jane in the Safeguarding Department

Recent Clergy Appointments

Father Mark Brentnall, as Dean of Derby Deanery, from 8th December ad quinquennium

Father Raphael Imoni, as Dean of Leicester Deanery, from 8th December ad quinquennium

Canon Paul Chipchase, as Dean of Loughborough Deanery, from 8th December ad quinquennium.

Canon Andrew Cole, as Dean of Northern Lincolnshire Deanery, from 8th December ad quinquennium.

Canon Philipp Ziomek, as Dean of Nottingham Deanery, from 8th December ad quinquennium.

Father Paul Newman, as Pastoral Dean of Nottingham Deanery, from 8th December ad quinquennium.

Father Robbie O’Callaghan, as Dean of Peak Deanery, from 8th December ad quinquennium.

Father Dominic O’Connor, as Dean of Southern Lincolnshire Deanery, from 8th December ad quinquennium.

Canon Michael O’Donoghue, as Dean of Sherwood Deanery, from 8th December ad quinquennium

Canon Andrew Cole, as parochial administrator of the parishes of Saint Mary, Louth, and Saint Joseph, Mablethorpe, from 10th January

Ad multos annos! Vivat!

Celebrating our 2023 Jubilarians!

Father Colin Patey whose silver jubilee is celebrated on 28th February

Father Paul Entwistle whose diamond jubilee is celebrated on 30th March

Father Keith Frisby whose ruby jubilee is celebrated on 9th April

Provost Michael Bell whose diamond jubilee is celebrated on 8th June

Father Antonio Belsito IC whose golden jubilee is celebrated on 9th June

Father Frank Higgins whose golden jubilee is celebrated on 23rd June

Canon Stephen Dye whose silver jubilee is celebrated on 4th July

Father Greg Tobin whose ruby jubilee is celebrated on 16th July

MEN'S RETREAT

SATURDAY 18TH MARCH ROSMINI HOUSE OF PRAYER

After the great success of last year ' s Men's Lenten retreat and autumn walking pilgrimage we are delighted to offer again a retreat for men in the Diocese of Nottingham on Saturday 18th March at the Rosmini House of Prayer

The retreat will be lead by Fr Julian Green from the Archdiocese of Birmingham. Fr Julian has been a priest for over 25 years and is a gifted preacher and retreat leader There will be opportunities for prayer, reflection, confession, Mass and fraternal time with men from around the diocese.

The theme of the retreat will be: Men of Scripture and we will explore how men in the scriptures lived their call as husbands, brothers, sons, fathers, leaders and friends and how we can live as Catholic men in our families and in the world.

The cost of the day will be £20 which includes breakfast and lunch. The day will beginning at 9:30AM and will finish after a curry at 4PM.

Synod: European Continental Assembly final remarks from Prague

The European Continental Assembly have met in Prague, the following text forms part of their final remarks.

“We have experienced four days of listening and dialogue based on the resonances aroused by the Working Document for the Continental Stage within the Churches from which we come As the European Continental Assembly, we realise that we have had a profoundly spiritual experience through the synodal method

Our work has been rich and exciting, though not without its problems and difficulties It has allowed us to look into the eyes of the Church in Europe, with all the treasures of the two great Latin and Eastern traditions that make it up With an awareness that has grown over the course of the Assembly, we feel today that we can affirm that our Church is beautiful, showing a variety that is also our wealth We feel that we love her even more deeply, in spite of the wounds she has inflicted, for which she needs to ask forgiveness in order to be able to move on to reconciliation, the healing of memory and the welcoming of the wounded We are convinced that these sentiments also fill the hearts of all the people who have been involved in the journey of Synod 2021 – 2024 since September 2021

Throughout the days of the Assembly, we went through a spiritual experience that it is possible to meet, listen to each other and dialogue starting from our differences and beyond the many obstacles, walls and barriers that our history puts in our way We need to love the variety within our Church and support each other in mutual esteem, strengthened by our faith in the Lord and the power of his Spirit ”

The Aim of the Guild is threefold - we the ‘Ransomers’ (the members of the Guild), are invited to pray daily, for the conversion of England & Wales, for the restoration of the lapsed, and the forgotten dead ‘Finding ourselves amidst an era of confusion and identity crisis of various kinds, we endeavour to understand the state of the world, and to showcase the work of the Guild in support of New Evangelisation Along with this, we seek to return confidence in our Catholic identity, and the faith’s connection to England, Wales, and its people’

The Master of the Guild, Monsignor John Armitage said: “The Guild’s founder, didn’t seek to establish an exclusive club, or a lonely mission it was an invitation to stand alongside people from all backgrounds, united in a mission to evangelise, to bring home those who have lapsed, and to pray for the forgotten dead. The Ransomers represent a portion, albeit a smaller portion today, of the beautiful faithful community in our country. One of the main challenges of our age, is that of bringing good news to people who have lost the understanding of God in their life We no longer speak to a religious country, and for many people, a religious grammar no longer exists. While bad news abounds, we seek to look to the good things, from which we can take encouragement, hope, and inspiration In this culture, far more connected than the one which our founders had, we must make it our intention, as Ransomers, to deliver such a meaningful invitation”

‘Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy Spirit ’ (Mt 28:19)

We hear of the remarkable work done in parishes, and through private initiatives The charitable work of the Church is in many ways a source of righteous pride, and it springs from a source of love The work is often done quietly, and sometimes passes by unnoticed We aim to bring this work to the fore, and to help the faithful to see what is being done around the country, and allowing us to be grateful for it Thanks to the generosity of the Guild’s members over the years, the Guild is able to grant funds to parishes and ministries Last year saw the first Dowry grants distributed by the Guild, to charities working for the benefit of evangelisation, especially those which are particularly innovative These included Catholic Voices; Youth 2000 UK, and Catholic Student Network.

Being a member of the Guild is about being part of the past, present, and future of the Catholic mission. We connect Catholics with one another to do great works of evangelisation, and we seek to enable growth in the Church for future Since the earliest days of the Guild, our membership network has been the foundation of our work. Without their prayer, encouragement, and support, our work would not be possible How might you take part in building our mission? We believe each generation is called to step up to the mark and accept the challenge of the Gospel If you are passionate about your faith, I invite you to join fellow faithful in this mission of joyfully living and sharing our faith with others

If you would like to contact the Guild of Our Lady of Ransom, you can find out more information here: https://www guild-ransom co uk/ or info@guild-ransom co uk

"The Guild isn’t simply a club of mystery and old traditions, but a collective of passionate disciples and innovative evangelisers. Not only is their commitment deeply rooted within them, but their sense of ownership of mission is an incredibly beautiful witness of faith and service It’s almost as if the Guild was instituted in recent times for today’s culture. Prayer offered by Ransomers is encouraging, inherently Catholic, and fervent: another incredible witness of faith that’s not often seen today. At every corner I turn in my work for the Guild, I find another level of depth, to this incredibly well thought out and carefully crafted mission Personally, I feel that we’re only just beginning to unpack what was founded in 1887, a mission inspired by Our Lady, which she has gifted to our Church to serve the generations to come”.

“In an age where universities are known for their promotion of moral relativism and decline in religious tolerance, there are pockets of Catholic students across the UK who are countering these trends, living as joy-filled disciples and committed to using their lives, and their studies, to rebuild the walls of the Church In 2017, a group of students saw the potential power of uniting these students, to give them opportunity to build a community, receive formation, and support them in their vocational discernment, as they headed into their professional lives. The Catholic Student Network (CSN) thus began a registered charity, with its core aims to support the work of chaplaincies and Catholic societies With huge and humble thanks to the ‘Dowry Grant’, we have already been able to double the size of the conferences we are running, employ a part-time communications assistant, and bring in a number of incredible speakers We are seeing the impact first-hand. Students bursting with confidence in their new identity as sons and daughters, full of courage to step onto often hostile campuses to invite new people into their flourishing communities – these are the leaders of the next generation, for the Church, for politics, for business and for society as a whole”

Nazar Alsamarai [Project Manager for the Guild & CEO of Peter’s House]

A ‘Dowry Grant’ Testimony from Daisy Vanderputt [Trustee at Catholic Student Network] – Discipleship on Campus

Contributed by: Rev Deacon Warren Peachey

With thanks to Joe Martin and Luke Potter for continued photography services

Aged 18-35? Travel to World Youth Day 23 with the Diocese of Nottingham!

August 2023 • Lisbon, Portugal Limited places available. Find out more at: dioceseofnottingham uk/events/wyd23

NOTTINGHAM DiocesanNews