Barnabas Cathedral, lit up in a Marian blue, surrounded by an ocean of pilgrimage and prayer
Welcome to the latest edition of our diocesan E-news which is certainly packed with many ‘good news’ stories from across the diocese. Last month I travelled with InterCare to Tanzania to visit the ten medical dispensaries and hospitals that this small charity, based in Syston, Leicestershire, supports with basic medicines and medical supplies. It was my first visit to an African country and you can read more about it elsewhere in this E-news.
Next week is Interfaith week and part of my work as a member of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, in addition to my role as Bishop of the Diocese of Nottingham, is to encourage and promote good relations between Catholics and members of other faiths/religions. I would be very interested in hearing of any local interreligious events going on across our diocese. While I was in Tanzania, the Hindu festival of Diwali was being celebrated. One of the InterCare team on the visit there, Dr Raj, is a Hindu. He arranged that we join him one evening to visit the small Hindu community in the nearby town of Moshi and to enjoy the fireworks that were part of the Diwali celebrations We were made very welcome Elsewhere in this E News I have written an article explaining why the Catholic Church views interreligious dialogue, in its different forms, as an important aspect of its work of evangelisation.
One of my three priorities for the diocese is to support young people to grow in their faith. Later this month, on the Solemnity of Christ the King, (Sunday 20 November) every Catholic community across the world is encouraged tocelebrate the role of young people within the Church. This can be done in a variety of ways, but the following are some examples of what the Church encourages in the liturgy for The Feast of Christ the King: ensuring that young people are prominently involved in the liturgy, reading, serving, singing, etc; that there is preaching on Christ the King and young people; that, incorporated into the Prayer of the Faithful (Bidding Prayers), there are special prayers for young people, for the work of The Briars (our diocesan Youth Retreat Centre), our schools, etc.; that, where possible, a young adult is helped to give a short faith testimony near the end of Mass; and that Mass should end with a special blessing for young people/young adults I will be at St Barnabas Cathedral for the 6pm Mass on this Solemnity, and I look forward to meeting socially with young adults afterwards. Elsewhere in this E News you can read of the many opportunities there are in the diocese for young people to be supported to grow in their faith If you know of youth events taking place, please ask the organisers to send photos and a short report to the editors for inclusion in the next edition of the diocesan E news Next year during August World Youth Day takes place in Lisbon, Portugal It is my desire that a group of young adults (18+) from the diocese travel out with myself and a few priests to take part in this. Details will soon be communicated once the planning arrangements have been completed
The Season of Advent will soon be upon us and it is the scene of the Annunciation, the encounter between Mary and the Archangel of God that is prominent within it; when Mary gives her fiat, her unqualified ‘Yes’ to God The life she had lived until then must surely have been a preparation for that moment and, as we know, her fiat would entail still further acts of obedience to God’s will The scene ends with Mary declaring to the Archangel “ I am the handmaid of the Lord Let what you have said be done to me ’ In our own lives of faith we do not know all that God will ask of us but, trusting that nothing is impossible for God we ask, in our own encounters with God this Advent, for the same gifts of trust, discernment and surrender that we see in Mary’s life. The Annunciation first finds Mary ‘deeply troubled’ but, at the end, we find her experiencing that peace which comes to all who surrender to the will of God in their lives. Lord, help us to trust in your Word when doubts assail us; help us to discern your will when confusion clouds our thoughts, and help us to surrender peacefully to your will when we are tempted by pride. Amen.
With prayer and good wishes,
Many of the articles in this publication are also available to read individually at dioceseofnottingham.uk/news
In
InterCare is a small charity based in Syston, Leicestershire. It collects surplus healthcare goods and medicines in the UK and sends regular consignments to health care units in Sub-Saharan Africa. The charity supports around 100 health units across Sierra Leone, Ghana, Zambia, Malawi and Tanzania. Bishop Patrick has been patron of the charity for about six years and was invited to northern Tanzania in October, as part of a small team, to visit ten health units in and around the Catholic Diocese of Moshi, which InterCare Supports. These are a few diary extracts from his trip, you can find the complete diary on the diocesan website.
October, Bishop Patrick travelled to Tanzania with InterCare to learn more about their important work in SubSaharan Africa.
On arrival, and after completion of passport and Visa checks, which seemed to take forever, we were met by Mgr Paul Uria, the Director General of the Chancery Office in the Diocese of Moshi He took us to visit our first health unit, St Mary’s Dispensary in nearby Kia. We were warmly welcomed in song and dance by some members of the Masai tribe who make use of this rural dispensary. Many of them are prepared to walk quite a distance to this dispensary, in the heat and the dust, because of the quality of the care they receive The government hospitals and dispensaries struggle to provide the health care that is needed for the growing population of Tanzania. Although there is medical insurance available to help cover some of the costs, and there are some people who receive government exemptions to the cost of healthcare, very many people cannot afford the medical insurance and still do not qualify for the exemptions. The reality seemed to be, wherever we travelled throughout our visit, that a very large number of people, particularly in the more rural areas where there isn’t much in the way of employment, cannot afford to pay even a small amount towards the costs of the medicines and medical support. While the medical health units supported by InterCare do need to ask people to pay a little towards the cost of their medicines, nobody is refused medicines or treatment if they are unable to make even a small contribution. Indeed we came across sick and homeless people who had nowhere to go who were being housed for a time in some of the hospitals long after their treatment had come to an end.
For more on the needs of St Mary’s and the charitable ‘Mama Clementina’s Foundation’ which we stayed at, check out the website.
Check out our website to learn more about the growing mission of Moshi Diocese, can you guess the number of priests and seminarians they have? I brought the bishop gifts of a history of our diocese, a short history of our Cathedral and a Robin Hood hat! Then it was off to visit a busy hospital.
Friday 21st October - Kivavu Dispensary, lunch in a parish and a visit to a new mission church
We travelled to the Kikavu Dispensary where Dr Tebu, who helped drive us to several health units, is the lead clinician. He and Dr Julian Brown from the UK founded this Dispensary in a very rural and poor area. I really liked Dr Tebu’s approach in that the majority of the people in that region did receive medicine and treatment free of charge from the dispensary, but only if they worked to ensure that they put in place 10 basic but essential elements of good health. It was a good strategy in that it clearly motivated people to put in place in their homes some basic but essential elements of living a healthier life, including growing fruit and vegetables. He took us to visit some of the homes where these elements had been put in place, and then we visited the nearby government school which was very badly in need of textbooks and basic teaching equipment. The dispensary in the school provides free dental care and treatment four to five times a week. The children are given a free toothbrush for use at home and at school After lunch (when there is food!) they are provided with toothpaste to clean their teeth. School runs from 7.30am to 3pm and alongside the Headteacher there are six staff for 700 children. The average class is around 60 children! Later we had lunch with the two local priests who look after the nearby Catholic Church of St Andrew, still a mission church (not yet a parish church) in a very poor area which is made up of Catholics and Muslims who live peacefully, side by side. These priests were very impressive in their real desire to serve and live close to their parishioners.
We then visited a new mission church in the afternoon, more details about this are on the website.
Today was a particularly busy day in that we first travelled out on some very poor and dusty tracks, to reach the Haruma Hospital where Sr Dr Marydaria is the Doctor in charge While the government pays for the salaries of the majority of the staff here, the amount received from the government is steadily declining, and the hospital has to find the money for the salaries of some staff members. Other challenges are, supply of water to the hospital, training of staff, lots of road traffic accidents and no CT scanner, and people unable to pay even a little for their medical supplies. We then travelled to St Joseph’s Dispensary, Uchira, again on a particularly bumpy and dusty track. The actual dispensary, where the medical supplies are stored, was very hot and without any temperature control. We also later visited the Miwaleni Dispensary, again in a poor and rural area, to explore whether InterCare might be able to support it in the near future. They have a visiting doctor once a week and are greatly in need of InterCare funding and medical supplies. A very long but interesting day!
On our final day, we visited St Francis of Assisi Orphanage School where there is also a dispensary. The staff salaries are paid by the government, but the dispensary struggles with lack of drugs and equipment, the school often hasn’t sufficient food for the children and staff, and they have no transport to transfer to hospital, when needed, the children (or adults). The orphaned children included albino as well as those who were blind or deaf. In spite of all they are struggling with, the children sang with great gusto. Then on to Kilimanjaro airport for the journey home and much to reflect upon.
relive the journey
8:05AM The Relics arrive in Nottingham Diocese! Fr Matthew Jakes greeted the Relics at St Bernadette's Church in Scunthorpe, where the parish and local school communities were on hand to welcome, guide and even feed pilgrims throughout the day!
11:00AM Amongst other events, liturgies and activities, a Mass with Diocesan Schools was celebrated by Bishop Patrick. The church was packed, with the children responding enthusiastically to the interactive Homily given by Fr Simon Gillespie, Episcopal Vicar for Education and Deputy Director of the Lourdes Pilgrimage.
Many of the pilgrims enjoyed meeting Murphy, Fr Matthew's Pyrenean Mountain Dog, the exact breed St Bernadette would have been very familiar with!
Along with many others, Tom Baptist, Director of Chaplaincy for Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Multi Academy Trust, took part in a "Geste de l'eau" (Translation: "Water Liturgy") with Lourdes water transported from Lourdes with the Relics Geste de l'eau / Water Liturgy
5:00PM After a day in Scunthorpe, the Relics departed and headed south to Nottingham, ready to be greeted by an already packed Cathedral
time of quiet prayer and petition, with a constant stream of veneration6:15PM In the midst of the anticipated arrival on the Relics, BBC East Midlands and BBC Radio Nottingham were on site at St Barnabas Cathedral conducting interviews. They even captured the arrival of the Relics LIVE on the 6PM BBC East Midlands news!
View these interviews and see even more content from the visit: dioceseofnottingham.uk/news/relictour22
Interested in a pilgrimage to Lourdes? Find out more about the Nottingham Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage by clicking here or contacting Tangney Tours
10:10PM The evening's torchlight procession saw St Barnabas Cathedral lit up in a Marian blue, surrounded by an ocean of pilgrimage and prayer
10:30AM After a rare all night vigil, a closing Mass (with even more Diocesan Schools present!) saw the end of the visit of the Relics of Nottingham Diocese The van was waved off by school children, joined by Director of Education, Peter Giorgio
Bishop Patrick received the Relics, led in procession by the Polish Scouts Derby Road, Nottingham
Interfaith Week is celebrated on the 13th 20th November this year and aims to strengthen good inter faith relations at all levels, increase awareness and celebrate the contribution of the different faith groups in the UK and to increase the understanding between people of religious and non religious beliefs. Alongside his diocesan responsibilities Bishop Patrick is also the lead bishop for ‘interreligious dialogue’ for the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales and a member of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue. In October, he welcomed diocese interreligious coordinators to Nottingham Cathedral for a day of formation and networking. The group were joined by Sajid Mohammed, The Venerable Dr Loaw Panyasiri and Cardinal Michael Fitzgerald who each provided input for those gathered.
The day opened with input from Sajid Mohammed, a local councillor and founder of Himmah Sajid shared how his life changed when he found an asylum seeker (who had no recourse to public funding or welfare rights) sheltering in the Mosque This encounter led him to become a local councillor and found of Himmah, a grassroots community based organisation in Nottingham which works on the issues of poverty, race and educational issues Himmah now draws people from many faiths together to serve and support some of the most disadvantaged people in Nottingham Sajid also spoke of the work of the Salaam Shalom Kitchen, which he set up with a local Jewish organisation and provides hot meals for the homeless in Nottingham This project has long been supported by Christians from across the city, including members of the Cathedral parish Catholic Social Teaching has been a positive influence and encouragement for Sajid, as has the witness, example and teaching of Pope Francis on fraternity
Sajid argued that the change that is needed often only comes about when people of different faiths come together and build broad based alliances He felt that this is particularly urgent in the face of the cost of living crisis
In the afternoon the group was joined by The Venerable Abbot Dr Laow Panyasir and ten Buddhist Monks from the Wat Mahatthat Buddhist Temple in Staffordshire Dr Laow shared with those gathered about his life as a Buddhist monk and how as an orphan he was brought up in a Buddhist Monastery, becoming a novice at 13 and a monk at 20 He explained that anyone judged suitable by the community of monks can join a monastery, for as long or short a time as they wish and as guided by the community The monks follow 227 rules, novices have ten rules to follow and lay people have just five rules The monks shared on their life, which is spent chanting, meditating and reciting the teachings of Buddha They also go out and collect alms from the Thai community who help support them His talk gave a very helpful insight into the life of a Thai Buddhist monk and gave rise to many questions.
The final speaker for the day was his eminence, Cardinal Michael Fitzgerald, a leading expert in Christian Muslim relations and former head of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. With the meeting falling on the 60th anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council on 11th October 1962, the Cardinal was asked to speak on the Council and Interreligious Dialogue He pointed out that Nostra Aetate, the Declaration on the Relation of the Church to Non Christian Religions, was a surprise result of Vatican II It had not been foreseen in the preparatory agenda for the Council and only emerged out of the discussions amongst the bishops These discussions gained momentum and, even before the final vote on the text of this document, Pope Paul VI had instituted an office in the Vatican to care for interreligious relations, the Secretariat for Non Christians Under Pope St John Paul II it became the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, which was headed up by Archbishop Michael Fitzgerald from 2002 2006. More recently under Pope Francis, it has become the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue. From as early as 1967 it has sent a message to Muslims for the end of Ramadan. It later started sending messages to Buddhists for Vesak, to Hindus for Diwali and, more recently, also to Sikhs and Jains. The Cardinal concluded his talk by highlighting how the work of Interreligious Dialogue has been one of the priorities of all the Popes since Pope Paul VI, and especially for Pope Francis
As the day drew to a close, the interreligious co ordinators expressed their gratitude to Bishop Patrick for organising such a positive encounter
To find out more about getting involved in Interreligious Dialogue, contact Canon Eddy Jarosz.
On the feast of Christ the King, the end of the liturgical year, the Church celebrates World Youth Day. It is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate young people in local church communities and to affirm and encourage them in their journey of faith. This year’s theme is taken from Luke’s Gospel, ‘Mary arose and left with haste’, and the Holy Father’s message for the day can be read here. Young people are one of the three pastoral priorities of Bishop Patrick, the other two focusing on clergy and laity. It is the bishop’s hope that every child or young person in our diocese, from little ones up to young adults, will have the opportunity to personally encounter Jesus Christ, to grow in their faith as his disciples and to serve Him as missionary disciples. There are many opportunities for young people across the diocese and this feature gives a snapshot of some of what’s on offer and what’s been happening.
Nottingham Diocesan Catholic Youth Service and its residential centre The Briars "exists to provide opportunities for young people to discover community, come to a friendship with Christ and a deeper awareness of themselves " The Briars offers a selection of digital resources, in addition to their main ministry of facilitating residential retreats, welcoming schools and parishes from across the Diocese of Nottingham and beyond Over the last 12 months there have been lots of exciting developments at The Briars, including a major renovation of the main residential building, with brand new ensuite rooms, refreshed social spaces and an upgraded dining room. In addition to the refreshed retreat facilities, the re development also saw the launch of ‘Saints Meadow’, a collection of six luxury pods (each named after a Saint) situated on the "front field" with all profits from the bookings going directly to support youth ministry in the diocese.
Thanks to a generous grant from the Sisters of St Joseph of Peace, 2022 saw the launch of The St Francis of Assisi Fund, an initiative that will ensure financial difficulty is not an obstacle to a young person accessing a retreat at The Briars. Earlier this term, Bishop Patrick visited The Briars and Saint's Meadow in order to bless the new builds and to commission the new Volunteer Team. It was also an occasion to thank Tom Baptist for almost five years of generous service as Director of Youth Service and to wish him well in his new role as Chaplaincy Director for the Our Lady of Lourdes CMAT. To keep up to date with news and events at The Briars, check out ndcys.com and @ndcys
Over the last year, thanks to a partnership between the Vocations Team and Adult Formation for Mission department, a new ministry to young adults in the diocese has begun to develop and grow ‘Christus Vivit’ began in Nottingham last Autumn, giving young adults the opportunity to meet monthly at St Barnabas Cathedral in Nottingham The group meets to pray together, receive faith formation, and then socialise in a local pub after. A second young adult hub was launched this Summer at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Derby. Alongside the fruitful monthly meetings, the hubs have also gathered for bigger events such as the Relics of St Bernadette Tour as well as embarking on pilgrimages to Lincoln, Walsingham and Lourdes Plans are underway to take a small group to World Youth Day in Lisbon next Summer, with bookings already open (see page 19) Alex Shelton Bourke, parishioner in Clifton and frequent attendee of 'Christus Vivit Nottingham', had this to say about Christus Vivit: "Personally, my faith has grown an enormous amount because of Christus Vivit and the meetings renew me spiritually, supporting me in work as a Lay Schohaplain. A highlight of the year, was the evening of guided meditation given by Joe Martin, as it allowed me to listen to what God is calling me to do and helped me grow into a deeper relationship with Him."
More details of young adults events can be found on the events section of the diocesan website, including details of a young adults group in Scunthorpe, coordinated by Fr Lim Gamsi
Alex Shelton Bourke
Through the chaplaincy teams and vibrant Catholic life in our three CMATS, over 30,000 children and young people have various opportunities to encounter Jesus Christ and to grow as His disciples Chaplaincy, in particular, plays an integral role in helping to shape the faith lives of young people in our schools There are many opportunities for students to engage in collective worship, prayer, liturgies, charity fundraising, retreats, pilgrimages to Lourdes and local shrines, mission days, Trust wide events and social action initiatives such as Mini Vinnies, Faith in Action groups, Youth SVP and Eco Teams. Some of our CMATs had this to say about the importance of school chaplaincy:
"We believe that Chaplaincy is not just about proclaiming the Good News through excellent liturgies but about walking alongside people, building relationships and being a presence around the school. It is about accompanying and supporting the school community and individuals within it on their life journey, wherever it may take them."
Our Lady of Lourdes CMAT
"School chaplaincy is key to supporting young people because it gives them the opportunity to develop and deepen their experience of faith, to put their faith into action and hopefully realise the role they have to play in the wider church. School chaplaincy matters because without it children and young people may never have the chance to experience and develop their own faith."
The diocese is home to universities in Nottingham, Derby, Leicester, Loughborough and Lincoln Catholic students are supported during their time at university by Catholic Chaplaincy provision and Catholic Societies known as CathSocs Chaplaincies across the diocese provide opportunities for students to access the Sacraments, pastoral care, social events, faith formation, retreats, pilgrimages and much more Fr David Palmer, Chaplain to the University Students in Nottingham, had this to say on the importance of University Chaplaincy for young adults and students:
"Aside from the paramount importance of the Sacraments and teaching the faith, I would say that what the Chaplaincy/CathSoc offers students is a supportive community of other Catholics, where deep and lasting friendships are nurtured in an environment of faith and this happens in the context of a wider campus environment which doesn’t always understand what it means to be a Catholic. Also, these young men and women will often go on to have fairly influential positions in the wider world after university, so it’s a privilege to help root them in their Catholic life as they prepare for the life ahead of them."
St Ralph Sherwin CMAT Fr David PalmerAged 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
Following the relaunch of the annual women’s retreat and the first men’s retreat in Lent, ministries for men and women continue to grow and develop in the diocese. Two further days of prayer and reflection for men and women, were organised in October by the Adult Formation for Mission Team supported by generous volunteers.
In early October, the men’s group embarked on a walking pilgrimage to the Shrine of St Joseph in the Goyt Valley This little known shrine is a hidden gem in the Peak District and was built in the late 1800s by the Spanish Governess of the now ruined Errwood Hall, in gratitude to St Joseph. The pilgrimage drew together men of all ages from different parts of the diocese, for prayer and fraternity. The group was also joined by Fr Liam Carpenter, which enabled those who wished to avail of the Sacrament of Reconciliation on route to the Shrine. Upon arrival at the shrine, each person had time for personal prayer in the shrine, which is so small it can only accommodate three pilgrims at a time. The group then gathered together outside to pray the St Joseph’s Chaplet and to pray for the life and mission of the diocese. The walk finished with stunning views over Foxlow Edge before the day ended with a pub lunch in nearby Buxton.
At the end of October, the women’s ministry gathered at the parish of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour in Bulwell to enjoy an afternoon of prayer, input, fellowship and afternoon tea. Those gathered were delighted to welcome Karen Foong, Director of Ongoing Formation for Clergy in the diocese, who gave the key talk entitled ‘Leadership of Women in the Church Through the Lens of Fear and Betrayal'. The theme of the input was timely, given women’s leadership and inclusion has featured in a number of Synodal reports at parish, diocesan and national level. Karen’s talk began with Scripture and, as one attendee stated, ‘traced moments that resonate and connect with our unique Catholic leadership experiences so that we might identify appropriate responses to when fear and betrayal inevitably cross our paths in our endeavour to be both leaders and disciples of Christ’ The presentation combined input and short mediations, capturing the imagination of those present, sparking lively conversation and creating space for heartfelt exchanges The afternoon concluded with more conversation over an afternoon tea in the parish hall
The Adult Formation for Mission department is pleased to be able to offer these events for men and women in the diocese, recognising that Saints are not made in isolation and fellowship is a key component of the Christian life The next men’s retreat is pencilled in for 18th March 2023 and the next women’s retreat is in the diary for 25th March 2023. More details will be communicated nearer the time The team are keen to hear from people with ideas about how both ministries might continue to develop and expand You can contact Joe Hopkins on adult formation@dioceseofnottingham uk
A special Mass for Permanent Deacons from across the Diocese was celebrated by Bishop Patrick on 1st October at Sacred Heart Parish, Leicester It was the first time this Mass has been celebrated since the pandemic and it provided an occasion for deacons and their wives to gather, pray, reflect and enjoy each other’s company During the Mass, the deacons were invited to renew their ordination promises. Many of their wives, who were also in attendance, reaffirmed their commitment to support their husbands in building up the local Church Deacon Chris Steven gave the homily and he reminded those gather to continue to remain firm and steadfast in their relationship with Christ, saying ‘Here I am, Lord Send me ’ After lunch, there was an opportunity for a Q&A with the Bishop. He reminded the Deacons that their commitment to service can take many forms and he affirmed them in their ministry saying:
"It is a blessing to see all the good things that deacons do around the diocese, and all that your wives sacrifice for this "
The gathering also provided an occasion to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of Deacon Raymond Keogh (Oakham), Deacon Kevin O Connor (Leicester) and Deacon John Wilford (Lincoln) They were ordained in 29th November 1997 and were presented with a Papal Blessing to mark their anniversary. There was a moment to remember the five deceased deacons from their class of 1997: John Parker (9 April 2019), Raymond Faghy (23 February 2019), Bernard Croft (17 February 2019), Harry Tompkinson (6 May 2016), and Tony Brown (2 May 2008). Deacon Paul Boshell (Retired) who was unfortunately unable to attend, will be presented with a Papal Blessing at a later date in November, to celebrate his Silver Jubilee. Those who had died since the last Annual Deacons’ Mass in 2019 were especially remembered in prayer: Robin Pollard (24 February 2021), Peter Brogan (28 January 2021) and James Baxter (30 September 2019).
The Diocesan Mass for Deacons is held annually on the first Saturday of October, Next year’s Mass will on Saturday 7th October 2023 at 12 noon and the venue will be confirmed nearer the time.
Permanent Deacons are involved in a wide range of ministries, but usually are assigned to a parish, where they proclaim the Gospel and assist the priest at Mass, oversee or support parish ministries and charitable activities, administer baptisms, officiate at weddings, and distribute Holy Communion to the sick and housebound
For more information on the Permanent Diaconate: dioceseofnottingham uk/vocations/deacons
Christ is the foundation of the whole educational enterprise in a Catholic school.
The Catholic School, §34
Calling Foundation Governors…
Are you looking for a way to live out your faith and serve your local community at the same time?
If so, becoming a foundation governor could be just the thing for you.
Bishop Patrick McKinney is seeking practising Catholics to appoint as new foundation governors to our diocesan schools. Foundation governors play a vital role in maintaining and developing the Catholic character of our schools.
This event is designed to provide information about the role of a foundation governor, the application process and the support offered.
At the end of the Sunday Angelus (16th October), the Holy Father announced that the upcoming 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops will be held in two moments, that is, in two sessions, spaced one year apart: the first from 4th until 29th October 2023, the second in October 2024. This decision stems from the desire that the theme of a Synodal Church, because of its breadth and importance, might be the subject of prolonged discernment not only by the members of the Synodal Assembly, but by the whole Church. Moreover, this choice is in continuity with the ongoing synodal journey, to which the Pope himself referred: the Synod is not an event but a process in which the whole People of God is called to walk together toward what the Holy Spirit helps it to discern as being the Lord's will for his Church.
On
On Saturday 5th November, Christ the King Parish Alfreton hosted a gala celebration of the parish’s rich cultural diversity. The evening was headlined by the
help purchase desks for a new school in St Monica’s Parish in his diocese This financial support will also accompany a collection of stationary the parish has gathered for the new school
legendary Irish Comedian Jimmy Cricket and Kelly’s Heroes had people’s feet tapping with their array of Irish ballads, jigs and reels. Parishioners were also treated to displays of Indian and Polish dancing and music from Nottingham singer and songwriter, Louie Walsh. Proceeds from the evening will be sent to the Bishop of Mzuzu Diocese in Malawi, to
Joel Bryan, 23, was born and raised in the Amber Valley, regularly attending Mass with his Grandma Brenda, taking part in retreats and conferences at every opportunity Having finished college, Joel decided to spend a year volunteering with Nottingham Diocesan Catholic Youth Service (see page 16) as a member of the team at The Briars in Crich As part of the team, Joel dedicated 10 months to leading small groups, games and prayers for thousands Young People from schools and parishes from across the Diocese of Nottingham Now, on a slightly different path, Joel is the newly elected County Councillor for Long Eaton. To the naked eye, the two paths seem quite different, though Joel points out an interesting similarity:
"My purpose whilst working at The Briars and now working for the people of Long Eaton actually have a lot in common; it is and was my hope that each person can simply live their life to the full (John 10:10), realising their true potential. For this to happen, their needs should be met whether those be spiritual needs, physical needs, environmental needs, or another kind it's a pleasure and an honour to play a part in facilitating them."
He adds, “I think it’s really important to have more Catholics in local government, fighting for social justice and constantly asking God for guidance”
On the Solemnity of All Saints, Bishop Patrick appointed six new members to the Chapter of St Barnabas Cathedral.
On Wednesday 7th December, four Priests will be installed as chapter canons:
Fr Andrew Cole
Fr Matthew Jakes
Fr John Kyne
Fr Peter Vellacot
Two honorary canons will also be installed:
Fr Stephen Dye
Fr Stanley Ofoegbu
Amongst other duties, the Cathedral Chapter celebrates solemn liturgical functions in the Cathedral, prays for the cathedral and advises the Bishop in the exercises of his pastoral office
The Diocesan Curial team recently travelled the diocese in order to meet face to face with those in involved in Parish Administration, hosted in three parish centres. Led by David Lawes (COO) and Fr Paul Chipcase (EV for Administration and Finance), the team of around 20 staff from the various diocesan departments shared the latest updates and good news with the parish stakeholders who have a variety of responsibilities in parish life, from website administration, finance, bookings, health and safety, safeguarding and much more in many cases! It is hoped that these days can run annually, offering an in person opportunity to meet, share and move forward together having listened and learnt from one another
To find out more about the Diocesan Curia visit dioceseofnottingham uk/parish hub and click Meet the Curia
Noah Gash, a Saint Benedict student, has scooped the ‘Inspirational Young Person Award’ at the Derby Youth Awards run by Derby City Council The award recognises a young person who has overcome a great barrier, or who has shown great courage, becoming an inspirational role model to other young people within their community or the city Noah was seriously ill from birth and his parents were told that he would never walk or talk. Yet, he now attends mainstream school, has recently completed his Duke of Edinburgh Award, is a Sports Leader and helps out with local litter picks, inspired by his passion for caring for the environment
On Friday 14th October Bishop Patrick presented two Papal Awards at the 1PM Mass in recognition of the generous service of Mr Michael Abbott and Mr Edward Poyser to the Church in and beyond the diocese
Michael was awarded the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice for his work as a diocesan trustee, a member of the Building and Sites Committee, a governor and chair of governors at St Mary’s School Loughborough for over 30 years, a member of his parish finance committee and as treasurer of the Loughborough Circle of Catenians.
Edward was appointed a Knight of the Pontifical Equestrian Order of Saint Gregory the Great by the Holy Father, in recognition of 16 years of services as Financial Secretary to the Diocese, post he held and carried out very efficiently until his retirement in 2019. He gained a well deserved reputation as a careful steward of the diocese’s financial resources, which were weak in 2006 but which he turned around in the course of his time in post, so establishing the sound financial foundation which we continue to enjoy today. He also played a key part in supporting the implementation of the Sick and Retired Priests Appeal. He oversaw the restructuring of the schools estate with academisation and incorporation of the diocesan trust as a limited company in 2010. Edward also served as a well respected director/trustee of CATEW and Inter diocesan Fuel Management.
Original article: https://www stbenedictderby srscmat co uk/student wins inspirational young person award/ersity of Nottingham Students’ Union mmunity Officer Daisy Forster said:
t’s amazing to see the university helping the munity in such an active way, especially when such an important time to give back Students e a remarkable asset to the city, and I really hope to get many of them involved with volunteering at the shelter.”
year’s Winter Shelter, which was open ween November 2021 and March 2022, ided 2067 nights’ protection for 72 people f these people were supported into longer m secure accommodation, equalling an age of 3 5 people a week
Nottingham homelessness charity Emmanuel House Support Centre is delighted to confirm the re opening of its Winter Shelter on the University of Nottingham’s University Park. From Monday 17th October, the charity will offer short term emergency accommodation for up to 27 people per night until April 2023. 24 hour support will be provided in an unused university building, ensuring there are fewer people sleeping on the streets of Nottingham
“As we enter our second season working with the university, we are delighted to be benefitting from their generous offer of accommodation at a cost neutral rate The Winter Shelter will provide what we anticipate as much needed respite accommodation for people who would otherwise rough sleep during the coldest and wettest months of the year. Staff and volunteers have been working hard to get everything in place in the venue on the University of Nottingham campus The Winter Shelter is not an end in itself, but a means of supporting people into more permanent accommodation solutions ”
manuel House has operated a Winter Shelter ommunity halls around Nottingham since 6 They have gradually become a key service for homeless people over winter Over the past 12 years, the Winter Shelter has provided emergency accommodation for 1621 people, of which 952 were supported in finding long term accommodation
In March 2020 Emmanuel House’s Winter Shelter moved into a hotel under the 'Everybody In' initiative when the government instructed all local authorities to move all homeless people into single room accommodation Emmanuel House then supported up to 50 people a night The 24 hour wrap around support this accommodation model offered proved invaluable
This year, there will be no central funding for hotel accommodation, but running the Winter Shelter in a church hall is also not possible Many of the guests have underlying health conditions, meaning guests cannot sleep in one large space where any infection could be quickly transmitted amongst the guests and staff
Denis Tully, CEO at Emmanuel House, said:
This year’s Winter Shelter will cost £1,000 a night to run. Emmanuel House funds the service through donations from charitable trusts, private donors and businesses.
Emmanuel House is currently looking for volunteers and sessional staff to work at the Winter Shelter. Information on volunteering, job vacancies and fundraising can be found on the Emmanuel House website.
Ashley Roberts, Head of Campus Services, is leading the project He said:
“It’s fantastic to be able to work with Emmanuel House again this year and put an otherwise empty property to good use "
“Last winter it was great to see the university community coming together to support the charity, with lots of donations and volunteers offering their time to help in the shelter I’m sure our staff and students will get behind Emmanuel House once again this winter and make it a successful partnership ”
The Winter Shelter offers 24 hour access, which allows support work to continue during the day as guests are helped to find work, long term accommodation, access to other services and three meals a day.
There are numerous ways you can support Emmanuel House, especially though volunteering.
Find out how and when you could volunteer, in the Winter Shelter, Charity Shop, though Support Centre Food Provision, or in Support Centre Assistance Apply to volunteer at Emmanuel House
Click the image above to watch ‘Sanctuary’, a short film based on the lived experiences of Emmanuel House service users, commissioned by homelessness charity Emmanuel House Support Centre in Nottingham
This film explores themes relating to abuse, suicide and trauma If you need support in relation to the issues within the film, please visit: www.emmanuelhouse.org.uk/film resources
The film tells the story of Kareem, who has lived with the memories of family trauma and abuse since childhood. Unable to cope with these memories, his life begins to spiral and he becomes at risk of homelessness The film tells his story and how he seeks to gain closure and, with support from Emmanuel House, move forward with his life
Emmanuel House’s Night Shelter in a church hall in 2018
For many years I was hesitant to travel to the Holy Land on pilgrimage The main reason for my reluctance centres on a fear that my illusions would be shattered and that many of the places associated with Jesus’ life and actions would turn out to be fabrications of later generations. Some of that may be true but archaeology and biblical research have shown that much of the tradition is historically correct and that in certain places one can be sure to have walked on the same ground as Jesus In 2009 I made my first pilgrimage to Israel, and I came away very moved to have visited the biblical sites and in particular the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre. My fears had been allayed by the expert guide who went to great pains to explain things in the tiniest detail. But this pilgrimage wasn’t simply an archaeological visit, I was struck by the people I met continuing the work of Jesus in orphanages, specialist schools, the seminary and Catholic University in Bethlehem, and the religious sisters, priests, and seminarians. These are often referred to as the ‘Living Stones’. Their faith and their active expression of it was something I was unprepared for, and which had a deep effect on me, and opened my eyes. If I have to say which places impressed me most apart from the tomb of Jesus in the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, I refer to my second pilgrimage to the Holy Land which wasn’t to Israel but to Jordan Like Jesus we ’passed through the towns of the Decapolis’ or at least some of them. Beginning at Gadara which is associated with Jesus casting out the demons from the demoniac and sending them into a herd of pigs. To stand at the top of the steep hillside over which the pigs ran in to the river below was a wonderful experience. From that vantage point to the right were the Golan heights, to the left in the distance Mount Tabor and below was the sea of Galilee The view was awe inspiring because it took in so much of Jesus’ life and it was a long and broad view and my eyes were opened. We then went to Jerash, another archaeological site in the Decapolis. In Jesus’ time this was a busy Roman settlement on an important trade route and I realised that Jesus’ ministry was in important cities, and not just villages and small towns. That too was an eye opener Lastly, I want to a mention a teenager selling olive wood rosaries in Bethlehem He was Palestinian whose family had been displaced from their home several generations ago. He was also very persistent when I said that I had enough rosaries. He said that I thought that he and people like him were human rubbish. Obviously, I was disturbed by this remark, but I didn’t want to give in to him. So, I bought two Magnums, sat on a wall with him and listened while we ate our ice creams. I didn’t buy his rosaries, but our conversation opened the eyes of my mind in an unexpected way.
To find out more about the work of Friends of the Holy Land, please visit www friendsoftheholyland org uk
Could a news story about you, your parish, school or organisation feature here? E-Mail naomi.roberts@dioceseofnottingham.uk to begin the conversation.
(Catechism of the Catholic Church 2270)
In last month’s E News, we introduced to Dr John Edwards, our new diocesan Pro Life Coordinator. This month he answers a few questions about the mission and work of the new ‘Pro Life Office’ here in the Diocese of Nottingham
Being pro life means seeking to create and sustain a culture in our society which values all life whether born or unborn, young or old, female or male, able bodied or disabled as a sacred and precious gift from God This encompasses many challenging issues such as abortion, caring for women in crisis pregnancies, embryo experimentation, care for the elderly, and euthanasia.
The Office was opened by Bishop Patrick in September 2022 Its purposes are:
To coordinate pro life activities which are taking place across the diocese
To disseminate information about such activities
To encourage and support new pro life activities.
A number of things have taken place over the past year, including:
St Colette’s Pregnancy Centre
Opened in September 2021, the centre (based in Lenton, Nottingham) offers practical support to women who may be in a crisis pregnancy and are feeling pressured to have an abortion The support can take the form of baby equipment/supplies, maternity clothes, and pregnancy testing kits The centre can also offer financial support and advice on pro life alternatives to abortion St Colette’s is run in collaboration with Life Charity, which also has shops in Derbyshire (For more information call the centre coordinator, Carol, on 07547 795315 or email scpscuk@gmail com)
During Lent, a daily prayer vigil is held for 12 hours a day outside an abortion clinic in Nottingham. Prayers are said for an end to abortion, for the women who are considering an abortion, for women who have had an abortion, for the babies whose lives are ended, and for the medical staff who are involved. If approached, vigil members engage with passers by and share the pro life message in a non judgmental and compassionate way They also offer practical help for any woman who wishes to keep her baby (www 40daysforlife com or email 40daysforlifenotts@gmail com)
SPUC is one of the oldest pro life organisations in the world and campaigns both nationally and internationally for laws which are pro life and pro family There are several active SPUC groups within the diocese Members write letters to politicians, organise petitions, support educational activities, undertake fundraising for the pro life cause, and hold an annual public act of witness in several locations around the diocese (see www spuc org uk or email spucnottingham@gmail com)
A group of pro lifers in Nottingham volunteer as ‘befrienders’ for the ARCH telephone helpline, which supports women (and men) who have had an abortion experience and wish to talk in confidence about it (for more information about ARCH see www archtrust org uk or call 0345 603 8501)
Once a year, there is a pilgrimage to Walsingham during which pilgrims pray for forgiveness for our society’s offences against life A coach is organised from Nottingham to enable pro lifers to participate.
This annual march in Westminster (in September) brings together pro lifers and all the main pro life organisations from around the UK, to protest against the law which makes it legal to kill an innocent unborn child The march is supported by many thousands, and ends in front of Parliament This year once again a coach travelled to London from Nottingham, and pro lifers from our diocese were treated to inspiring speeches from some of the best speakers in the pro life world. In addition, they made their voices heard in the fight against the injustice of abortion
Our long term vision is to influence the debate in our society, so that abortion and euthanasia become unnecessary and unthinkable
If you would like to get involved in any of these pro life activities, would like more information about any of the groups listed, or would like a speaker to come to your parish and run a session on some aspect of pro life work, please get in touch Dr John Edwards E: pro-life@dioceseofnottingham.uk
‘Human life must be respected and protected absolutely from the moment of conception. From the first moment of his existence, a human being must be recognised as having the rights of a person among which is the inviolable right of every innocent being to life.’
f i n d u s o n l i n e f i n d u s o n l i n e
Saturday 12th November - 'How to live as Mary in a Martha World' You are invited to join the Franciscan Sisters of Renewal for a Women's Retreat Our Lady of Lincoln Church, Laughton Way, Lincoln, LN2 2HE 10AM View details on website
Monday 14th November 7PM Join together for Holy Mass celebrated in Spanish by Fr Lim Gamsi at St Peter's Catholic Church, Leicester View details on website
Monday 14th November (online) Catechist Network Meeting Aid to the Church in need and CAFE will be presenting resources to help you in your parish. Register here View details on website
Thursday 17th November Young Adults Derby.. Meeting at St Mary's Catholic Church, Derby Eucharistic Adoration from 6:15pm with a time of personal prayer with Confessions commencing at 6:30pm Talk begins at 7PM, followed by Night Prayer then social time in a local pub. (then every first Thursday of the month) To attend this event you must be aged 18+
Friday 18th November (online) Divine Renovation: Becoming a Church of Closeness: The Challenges and Opportunities of Synodality Register here View details on website
19th 20th November Come and See: The Franciscan Sisters Minoress' in Melton Mowbray are welcoming young women throughout the UK to a 'Come and See' weekend on 19th and 20th November For women who are considering that God may be calling them to Franciscan Religious Life. Register now View details on website
19th & 20th November Pre Advent Retreat at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Mackworth Rediscover the Advent of our God in the Scriptures, and prepare to encounter him anew at his coming this Christmas. View details on website
Sunday 20th November 2PM - Movement and Sensory Mass at The Church On Oakwood, Bishop’s Drive, Derby DE21 2DF at 2pm This will be a ‘relaxed’ Mass, specially adapted for those with sensory needs. The celebrant will be Fr Alex Roji. Refreshments afterwards. View details on website
Sunday 20th November 6PM Youth Sunday Young Adults Mass and Social To celebrate the solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, on Sunday 20th November Bishop Patrick is inviting the young adults of the diocese (those aged 18 35) to join him for Mass at 6pm in Saint Barnabas Cathedral followed by a social gathering in the Sir John Borlase Warren pub. View details on website
Tuesday 22nd November 7PM Could you be a Foundation Governor? Are you looking for a way to live out your faith and serve your local community at the same time? Find out what it means to be a Foundation Governor in a Catholic School or Multi Academy Trust, online with the Diocesan Education Service. Register now View details on website
Thursday 24th November Young Adults Scunthorpe. Meet other Young Adults in Scunthorpe for input, discussion and prayer. Contact Fr Lim for more details. Contact Fr Lim Gamsi for more information.
25th 27th November SVP1833 Young Adults' Retreat. An opportunity for students and young adults, a weekend retreat of prayer, reflection and mission in the Vincentian Spirituality During the weekend, we will have talks by inspirational speakers, moments of prayer and reflection as well as a visit to Leeds Community Support Project where we will experience some of the vital work of the SVP Register now View details on website
Got an event you'd like to list? E-Mail naomi roberts@dioceseofnottingham uk to begin the conversation
Sunday 27th November 4PM Workshop for Young People with LACY and InterCare. Inter Care are collaborating with LACY (Leicestershire Active Catholic Youth) for a special workshop for young Catholics on 27th November 2022 at St Thomas More Church, Knighton. View poster
Thursday 1st December Young Adults' Nottingham. Meeting at Nottingham Cathedral Eucharistic Adoration from 6:15pm with a time of personal prayer with Confessions commencing at 6:30pm. Talk from Pippa Baker (of Mark10Mission and One Hope Project) begins at 7PM, followed by Night Prayer then social time in a local pub (then every first Thursday of the month) To attend this event you must be aged 18+
Thursday 8th December 7PM Divine Renovation: "My Parish isn’t Missional!": How to lead when you are not in charge. Join Divine Renovation for a conversation exploring the ways you can influence, lead, pray, and serve fruitfully in a parish that is not yet oriented to mission Register now! View details on website
Thursday 8th December 7PM PACT Carol Service The Service will be led by the Right Reverend Patrick McKinney, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Nottingham. There will be a collection for Pact’s work with prisoners and their families Sacred Heart Church, Carlton, Nottingham, NG4 1FP Book here view poster
Saturday 10th December 4PM Carols By Candlelight at St Barnabas Cathedral, Nottingham. Join together at St Barnabas Cathedral (or by means of live stream) in song and worship this Advent. View details on website Poster on page 12
16th 18th December Advent Retreat with NDCYS. Journey with through an immersive experience of the nativity story like you ' ve never experienced before! Open to all Years 10 13 (or equivalent) | £50 per person Book here Poster on page 13
With thanks to the Sisters of St Joseph of Peace, the St Francis of Assisi Fund is a £5000 grant awarded to The Briars to help young people across the Nottingham Diocese who may not otherwise be able to access a retreat at The Briars due to financial difficulties
As an organisation, we are keen to support those young people who are unable to access other streams of funding or support Therefore, the fund subsidises the cost of a retreat at The Briars by 50% for up to 1 young person nominated by your school
In order to nominate a young person from your school, a member of staff must fill in an application found on our website with a small statement about the young person's experience to be considered. As The St. Francis of Assisi Fund is a limited fund of £5000 not all applications are guaranteed to be funded.
