Author Archives: Rebecca Brookes

The head of the Maronite Church and Patriarch of Antioch and All of the East, His Beatitude Cardinal Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi, has been welcomed in Birmingham.

On Friday 13 January, as part of his first ever pastoral visit to the UK, Patriarch Al-Rahi presided over a Mass in the Maronite Rite at Birmingham Oratory.

The Mass was concelebrated by Archbishop Bernard Longley, and other Diocesan clergy, at the Shrine of St John Henry Newman, in celebration of the communion that exists between the Holy See and the Maronite Patriarchate.

The Maronite Church, whose origins date back to the early 4th century, is in full communion with the Bishop of Rome as a sui iuris particular church. Maronites number approximately 4 million in the world, of which roughly a quarter live in Lebanon, where they constitute up to 30% of the national population, and three-quarters live outside the Middle East, mostly in Canada, Australia, USA, UK, France, Argentina and Brazil.

After his visit to Birmingham Oratory the Patriarch later participated in Ecumenical Vespers at St Chad’s Cathedral. This was attended by Church leaders from across all denominations in the Midlands with Cardinal Michael Fitzgerald, Patron of Fellowship and Aid to the Christians of the East (FACE), preaching.

Archbishop Bernard gave the following words of welcome at the celebration of Vespers:

As we gather this afternoon in St Chad’s Cathedral to celebrate this time of prayer together, I would like to extend a very warm welcome and fraternal greetings to His Beatitude Cardinal Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi, and Archbishop Paul El-Sayah, together with those accompanying you – and alongside Cardinal Michael Fitzgerald and John Adam Fox from Fellowship and Aid to the Christians of the East who I know have been supporting and facilitating your visit over these days.

I would also like to extend a warm welcome to all our ecumenical friends from other Christian communities within the City – and in particular Bishop Anne Hollinghurst, the Bishop of Aston, Dean Matt Thompson, the Dean of Birmingham, and Dean Adrian Dorber, the Dean of Lichfield. I welcome Fr Peter El-Sibky, Fr David Zi-Counie and Dr Faye Youssef from the Coptic Orthodox Cathedral of St a Mary and Archangel Michael in Solihull.

A grateful welcome to our Faith Leaders and to the civic representatives who have joined us. Thank you for being with us today and for the mutual support and friendship which we enjoy through our work together.

As I was preparing for the Patriarch’s visit and reading the very helpful and informative biography about St Charbel Makhlouf which you have in our booklet for this service of Vespers, I was struck by what Pope St Paul VI said on the occasion of the beatification of St Charbel Makhlouf in 1965, describing this “new and eminent member of monastic sanctity” who “through his example and his intercession is enriching the entire Christian people.”

This sentiment called to mind the very joyful occasion that our own Archdiocese and City of Birmingham witnessed in 2010 when at Cofton Park the late Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI beatified Cardinal Newman – whom we venerate as Saint John Henry Newman since 2019. We remember Pope Benedict’s visit to Birmingham – we give prayerful thanks for his pontificate and and we commend his soul to the Lord.

In his homily, Pope Benedict recalled that St John Henry Newman’s motto, Cor ad cor loquitur, “Heart speaks unto heart”, gives us an insight into his understanding of the Christian life as a call to holiness, experienced as the profound desire of the human heart to enter into intimate communion with the Heart of God.

Your Beatitude, your visit to the United Kingdom over these days and here with us this afternoon is an important reminder of the rich tradition and faithful witness that Christians in the East have given from the very earliest days of the Church and we thank you for your continued witness in the most difficult and challenging of circumstances. Your presence is also a witness of the faith and mission that we share as we seek to be faithful to Christ, to follow the example of the saints and to enrich the lives of all God’s people through our prayer and in our desire always to serve the Lord.

May he preserve Your Beatitude in your apostolate always guide you in your service of his holy people.

St Charbel Makhlouf…pray for us
St John Henry Newman…pray for us

During his week-long visit – organised by the FACE charity which supports and serves Eastern Christians – the Patriarch has taken part in pastoral, ecclesial, ecumenical and patriarchal engagements.

He has met with Church leaders, representatives of various Lebanese parties at the Maronite Parish in London and politicians.

His visit comes at a time of unprecedented political, economical and social turmoil in Lebanon. During his talks the Patriarch has given an overview of the situation in Lebanon, explaining the country needs help from the United Nations and calling for a resolution to address the situation in Palestine.

At a press conference his statement focused on three points: Lebanon’s identity and political system; the difficulties facing Lebanon; and solutions.

In all his meetings the Patriarch has stressed the need to preserve the diversity and pluralism of Lebanon which distinguish it from other countries in the region and which make its society such a unique model of Christian-Islamic coexistence and dialogue between cultures and religions.

In recent years the Archdiocese of Birmingham has started to build a relationship with the FACE charity and supports its annual Day of Prayer for Eastern Christians.

Find out more about FACE’s work

Photograph: His Beatitude Cardinal Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi and and Archbishop Bernard Longley at St Chad’s Cathedral

Photo Gallery by Con McHugh

The beautiful words ‘Ave, ave, ave Maria! Ave, ave, ave, Maria!’ could be heard in the Birmingham night sky as St Chad’s Cathedral bid a fond farewell to the relics of St Bernadette.

Clergy and congregation followed the relics procession outside after a farewell Mass on Saturday 8 October.

Celebrated by Bishop David Evans, the Mass featured the musical talents of some of the Kenelm Youth Trust (KYT) team who led the congregation in joyous singing.

The relics had been in situ at St Chad’s Cathedral since Friday evening, attracting visitors from across the Archdiocese to venerate or join in the special services.

After being waved off from St Chad’s the relics travelled to Our Lady of Lourdes in Hednesford, home of the Diocesan Shrine.

They then move onto the Immaculate Conception in Bicester on Sunday night.

There is still a chance for people to visit the relics whilst they remain in our Archdiocese. Please see the full timetable for information.

St Bernadette, Pray for Us

Our Lady of Lourdes, Pray for Us.

The Anointing of the Sick was central to Mass at St Chad’s Cathedral this lunchtime (Saturday 8 October) and it felt very much like Lourdes was here.

Many people took the opportunity to receive the Sacrament in the presence of the relics of St Bernadette.

The cathedral was full, with the relics continuing to attract hundreds of people who wish to visit and venerate Bernadette of Lourdes.

Bishop Stephen Wright was the Principal Celebrant at the Mass, which was concelebrated by several other clergy, including retired Bishop David McGough.

The Oil of the Sick was blessed and used during the Mass, with members of the Birmingham Lourdes Hospitalite assisting clergy.

It was wonderful to see our Diocesan Mother Church pretty much full to capacity after two very difficult years where gatherings have been subject to restriction.

The atmosphere may have been prayerful and respectful, but the sense of great joy and devotion was evident.

Many have travelled from across the Archdiocese to see the relics and participate in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and many more will do so over the next few days. A large number are also accepting the invitation to take the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

To have the relics of St Bernadette here in the Archdiocese of Birmingham is a great honour and all are encouraged to visit them if they can.

Veneration continues at the cathedral this afternoon (Sat) before Mass and farewell at 6pm.

The relics then travel to Our Lady of Lourdes in Hednesford, home of the Diocesan Shrine, on Saturday night for veneration and prayers. On Sunday, in the Grotto, there will be veneration and Mass at 4pm.

The relics then move onto the Immaculate Conception in Bicester on Sunday night for veneration, a candlelight procession and Mass.

On Monday there is a live streamed Rosary to all Catholic schools with Archbishop Bernard Longley and a Mass at 1pm.

Full timetable

On the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, Friday 7 October 2022, the Archdiocese of Birmingham welcomed the Relics of St Bernadette.

From Friday evening through to Monday afternoon (10th) the relics have been entrusted to our care.

Hundreds of people gathered at St Chad’s Cathedral for a Liturgy of Welcome and Evening Prayer, followed by veneration until midnight.

Archbishop Bernard Longley spoke Words of Welcome to the ‘great numbers’ who had come to welcome St Bernadette and described it as a ‘very special moment indeed’.

We ‘call upon her to pray for us’.

Canon Fitzpatrick gave the Homily

Earlier, during a closed afternoon visit, the residents, staff and friends of St Joseph’s Home, Harborne (Little Sisters of the Poor) had the opportunity to venerate.

Archbishop Longley celebrated Mass at the home and in his Homily said:

‘It is a great blessing for us that the relics have arrived on today’s feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, recalling the importance of the prayer of the Rosary for St Bernadette herself and for every pilgrim to Lourdes. As you know, the Rosary Procession takes place every evening in Lourdes at the close of the pilgrim’s day. There is a special place in this torchlight procession for those pilgrims who are sick – for they are always at the heart of every pilgrimage to Lourdes.’

Read Homily in full

The Relics remain at St Chad’s Cathedral on Saturday with veneration, a Mass with Anointing of the Sick at 12noon, and Mass and farewell to the Relics at 6pm.

They then travel to Our Lady of Lourdes in Hednesford, home of the Diocesan Shrine, on Saturday night for veneration and prayers. On Sunday, in the Grotto, there will be veneration and Mass at 4pm.

The relics then move onto the Immaculate Conception in Bicester on Sunday night for veneration, a candlelight procession and Mass.

On Monday there is a live streamed Rosary to all Catholic schools with Archbishop Bernard and a Mass at 1pm.

All are encouraged to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. As people process to see the relics they will have chance to learn about St Bernadette’s life and Lourdes, and the opportunity to light a candle.

The visiting of the relics is a moment of joy and grace for all.

View full timetable

St Bernadette, Pray for Us

Our Lady of Lourdes, Pray for Us

Jesus made a tour through all the towns and villages…proclaiming the Good News.

I am delighted to join you today for the Annual Festival Mass for the Birmingham Central Council of the St Vincent de Paul Society – most familiar to all of us as the SVP. We offer this Mass in thanksgiving for the witness of holiness offered by St Vincent de Paul, whose feastday is next Tuesday, and for the work and legacy of Blessed Frederic Ozanam. I welcome all the national and diocesan officers and the members of the SVP from across our Archdiocese, together with those who support you in your work.

One central element of our discipleship is its capacity for outreach to others. In our own lives, and especially in these uncertain times, we value the things that guarantee our personal safety, health and well-being and we would feel lost if these were not in place. But Christ asks us to be self-forgetful and to be concerned for those individuals and families for whom this kind of support and security are missing, for many different reasons.

When he beatified Blessed Frederic, Pope John Paul 11 said: Frederic Ozanam believed in love, the love of God for every individual. He felt himself called to love, giving the example of a great love for God and others. He went to all those who needed to be loved more than others, those to whom the love of God could not be revealed effectively except through the love of another person. There Ozanam discovered his vocation, the path to which Christ called him. He found his road to sanctity.

As disciples we are called to find practical ways of helping and encouraging each other in the support we can give, especially as the Church, to the homeless or those experiencing housing problems, to those lacking shelter, clothing and food – but also to reflect on why these circumstances are even tolerated today. Blessed Frederic emphasised this when he said: It is too little to help the poor day by day; we must begin from the root of the evil and through wise reform reduce the causes of the people’s poverty.

In our discipleship, what is it that underpins our commitment to the poor and inspires the vision that draws us to come to their help? Disciples draw encouragement and fresh energy from the example and teaching of Jesus himself.

In his own ministry our Lord feels for those who are unsettled because they are experiencing some kind of poverty. When he saw the crowd he felt sorry for them because they were harassed and dejected, like sheep without a shepherd. The experience of being homeless, uprooted from what is familiar, or lacking in lasting security can undermine a person’s inner peace. At the same time a lack of personal stability can lead to the loss of job, home and family ties, income, health and even personal identity.

Alongside his own experience, our Lord’s stories and teaching and many of his actions are inspirational for us – they give us a definitive steer. The parables flow from his own personality and experience and many of them, like the parable of the Good Samaritan, show his basic concern for those who are by the wayside.

Today’s Gospel underlines our Lord’s invitation for others to come and share his concern for those who are most in need: the harvest is rich…ask the Lord of the harvest to send labourers to his harvest. The Christian motive for standing beside people in their need is not only natural human compassion (although that often leads people to great selflessness and heroic virtue). Rather, we are moved by our belief that everyone is made in God’s image and likeness, restored in Christ.

As you walk with Christ through all the towns and villages – across the Archdiocese and beyond – feel the compassion of our Lord for those who are today like sheep without a shepherd and reveal his presence to them through your own dedication as members of the SVP and your wish to befriend them in the Lord. May he in turn bless and strengthen you as you now re-dedicate yourself to be a servant after the example of the Master.

WELCOME

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ: together with Mgr Timothy Menezes, the Cathedral Dean, I welcome you to St Chad’s Cathedral as we come together to offer this Annual Festival Mass for the Saint Vincent de Paul Society.

I welcome the incoming National President of the SVP for England and Wales, Elaine Heyworth, as you prepare to take up your new responsibilities in November. Our patron St Chad, whose relics are above the altar, was the brother of St Cedd who established his see at Bradwell on the Essex coast – so we have a link with your home diocese of Brentwood.

I also welcome Andy Gudge, President of the SVP Birmingham Central Council, and I thank you for your faithful leadership throughout a difficult and demanding year. I am grateful to Deacon David Fairbotham, assisting at today’s Mass, to Mike Weaver, and to all the Honorary Officers and the Presidents of our diocesan SVP District Councils who are members of the Birmingham Central Council.

I welcome on their home territory the members of the St Chad’s SVP Conference which was recently established and I thank Alicia O’Brien with her team of helpers for all their preparations for today’s gathering.

Finally, I welcome all the SVP members together with your guests, and all those who have been unable to travel to St Chad’s today but who are joining us in prayer via the live-streaming of this Mass.

The recent funeral of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth has reminded us of the lasting and widespread impact that loving and faithful service of God and of our neighbour can have. With the prayers of St Vincent de Paul and Blessed Frederic Ozanam to support us, we now turn to God our loving Father and ask for his gifts of forgiveness and peace.

Act of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary Basilica of Saint Peter 25 March 2022

O Mary, Mother of God and our Mother, in this time of trial we turn to you. As our Mother, you love us and know us: no concern of our hearts is hidden from you. Mother of mercy, how often we have experienced your watchful care and your peaceful presence! You never cease to guide us to Jesus, the Prince of Peace.

Yet we have strayed from that path of peace. We have forgotten the lesson learned from the tragedies of the last century, the sacrifice of the millions who fell in two world wars. We have disregarded the commitments we made as a community of nations. We have betrayed peoples’ dreams of peace and the hopes of the young. We grew sick with greed, we thought only of our own nations and their interests, we grew indifferent and caught up in our selfish needs and concerns. We chose to ignore God, to be satisfied with our illusions, to grow arrogant and aggressive, to suppress innocent lives and to stockpile weapons. We stopped being our neighbour’s keepers and stewards of our common home. We have ravaged the garden of the earth with war and by our sins we have broken the heart of our heavenly Father, who desires us to be brothers and sisters. We grew indifferent to everyone and everything except ourselves. Now with shame we cry out: Forgive us, Lord!

Holy Mother, amid the misery of our sinfulness, amid our struggles and weaknesses, amid the mystery of iniquity that is evil and war, you remind us that God never abandons us, but continues to look upon us with love, ever ready to forgive us and raise us up to new life. He has given you to us and made your Immaculate Heart a refuge for the Church and for all humanity. By God’s gracious will, you are ever with us; even in the most troubled moments of our history, you are there to guide us with tender love.

We now turn to you and knock at the door of your heart. We are your beloved children. In every age you make yourself known to us, calling us to conversion. At this dark hour, help us and grant us your comfort. Say to us once more: “Am I not here, I who am your Mother?” You are able to untie the knots of our hearts and of our times. In you we place our trust. We are confident that, especially in moments of trial, you will not be deaf to our supplication and will come to our aid.

That is what you did at Cana in Galilee, when you interceded with Jesus and he worked the first of his signs. To preserve the joy of the wedding feast, you said to him: “They have no wine” (Jn 2:3). Now, O Mother, repeat those words and that prayer, for in our own day we have run out of the wine of hope, joy has fled, fraternity has faded. We have forgotten our humanity and squandered the gift of peace. We opened our hearts to violence and destructiveness. How greatly we need your maternal help!

Therefore, O Mother, hear our prayer. Star of the Sea, do not let us be shipwrecked in the tempest of war. Ark of the New Covenant, inspire projects and paths of reconciliation. Queen of Heaven, restore God’s peace to the world. Eliminate hatred and the thirst for revenge, and teach us forgiveness. Free us from war, protect our world from the menace of nuclear weapons. Queen of the Rosary, make us realize our need to pray and to love. Queen of the Human Family, show people the path of fraternity. Queen of Peace, obtain peace for our world.

O Mother, may your sorrowful plea stir our hardened hearts. May the tears you shed for us make this valley parched by our hatred blossom anew. Amid the thunder of weapons, may your prayer turn our thoughts to peace. May your maternal touch soothe those who suffer and flee from the rain of bombs. May your motherly embrace comfort those forced to leave their homes and their native land. May your Sorrowful Heart move us to compassion and inspire us to open our doors and to care for our brothers and sisters who are injured and cast aside.

Holy Mother of God, as you stood beneath the cross, Jesus, seeing the disciple at your side, said: “Behold your son” (Jn 19:26). In this way he entrusted each of us to you. To the disciple, and to each of us, he said: “Behold, your Mother” (v. 27). Mother Mary, we now desire to welcome you into our lives and our history. At this hour, a weary and distraught humanity stands with you beneath the cross, needing to entrust itself to you and, through you, to consecrate itself to Christ. The people of Ukraine and Russia, who venerate you with great love, now turn to you, even as your heart beats with compassion for them and for all those peoples decimated by war, hunger, injustice and poverty.

Therefore, Mother of God and our Mother, to your Immaculate Heart we solemnly entrust and consecrate ourselves, the Church and all humanity, especially Russia and Ukraine. Accept this act that we carry out with confidence and love. Grant that war may end and peace spread throughout the world. The “Fiat” that arose from your heart opened the doors of history to the Prince of Peace. We trust that, through your heart, peace will dawn once more. To you we consecrate the future of the whole human family, the needs and expectations of every people, the anxieties and hopes of the world.

Through your intercession, may God’s mercy be poured out on the earth and the gentle rhythm of peace return to mark our days. Our Lady of the “Fiat”, on whom the Holy Spirit descended, restore among us the harmony that comes from God. May you, our “living fountain of hope”, water the dryness of our hearts. In your womb Jesus took flesh; help us to foster the growth of communion. You once trod the streets of our world; lead us now on the paths of peace. Amen.

Lord Jesus Christ,
Prince of Peace and Saviour of the World:

Our world is in need of your peace at this time,
as we see the effects of evil deeds.

We hold before you our brothers and sisters in Ukraine:
those who are living through the trauma of staying,
under threat of their lives and homes,
and those who have left all they know in search of safety.

We are seeing too the best of humanity
in those who are welcoming others into their countries and
communities: new friendships which are emerging from the ashes of destruction; death leading to resurrection.

As the Season of Lent began with prayer
for the people of Ukraine,
may it continue to be our prayer each day,
that darkness will be transformed into light,
hatred into love,
and a deep respect for common humanity
be expressed between nations.

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, we place all our trust in you.
Amen.

Mgr Timothy Menezes

His Grace, Archbishop Bernard Longley gives his Christmas Message for 2021 from the crib scene at St Chad’s Cathedral Birmingham.

Archbishop Bernard’s Christmas Message 2021 | Birmingham Diocesan Trust (birminghamdiocese.org.uk)

For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, Mission – Catholic Bishops’ Conference (cbcew.org.uk)

In his short and beautiful book Let us Dream, Pope Francis explains himself very well as to what the whole idea of Synod and Synodality means.

Although they are terms that we might not use very much, there is an important understanding of the way in which Church works in the setting of the modern world.

Synods of Bishops have been restored in the Catholic Church since the Second Vatican Council in the 1960s and some of them have led to very significant teaching documents which influence the Church today:

1974 On Evangelisation 

Evangelii Nuntiandi (December 8, 1975) | Paul VI (vatican.va)

1977 On Catechesis

Catechesi Tradendae (October 16, 1979) | John Paul II (vatican.va)

1980 On the Family

Familiaris Consortio (November 22, 1981) | John Paul II (vatican.va)

1987 On the Role of the Laity

Christifideles Laici (December 30, 1988) | John Paul II (vatican.va)

1990 On Priestly Formation

Pastores Dabo Vobis (March 15, 1992) | John Paul II (vatican.va)

(Note that the Church’s custom is to name its documents by the Latin words which begin the document, eg. Pastores Dabo Vobis, in the last of that list of documents is the Latin for the biblical quote ‘I will give you Shepherds’).

So, it is well established in the Church that every three years or so, Bishops from around the world gather with the Pope to discuss matters of importance to the life of the Church. Usually, one or two bishops from each country attend the Synod so that there is a gathering of some 300-400 people. Of the nature of this gathering, the main group of participants is Bishops, not in their own right but as Shepherds of the People of God speaking on behalf of the situation in their own country.

For this reason, Pope Francis wishes to know that before the Bishops arrive in Rome, they are bringing the real sense of the Church in any given country to this ‘conversation’.

One of the biggest points that Pope Francis makes is that when the Synod takes place, as long as people come with an open mind: prepared to speak honestly from their own experience but also to listen generously to the views of others, then the dialogue can be most fruitful.

He says that the one who comes to the conversation with no interest in being challenged or seeing the world through the eyes of others will go away failing to be enriched by the experience.

As a Jesuit, Pope Francis is used to debating the issues and recognising that the questioning and the challenging is not, of itself, a problem.

He says that in the world of today, there is a political atmosphere in places where not only do I not see eye to eye with my opponent, I have no intention of seeking common ground. This, he says, is a real problem.

He recognises that as members of the Church we cannot see ourselves as on different sides of any issues: as members of the same Church, we are always on the same side, even if we express different views or even disagree with each other.

The timetable which will lead to the Synod of Bishops in Rome in 2023 is as follows:

Diocesan Phase (Local)

October 2021 – April 2022

During which each individual faithful can participate in the diocesan consultation. This phase will end locally with a pre-synodal assembly: the culminating moment of diocesan discernment.

National Phase (England & Wales)

A period of discernment will begin for bishops gathered in an assembly (Episcopal – Bishops’ – Conference). They will listen to what the Spirit has inspired in the churches entrusted to them. A ‘synthesis’ will be drafted and in due course sent to the General Secretariat for the Synod of Bishops along with the contributions of each of the local churches (before April 2022).

Continental Phase (Europe)

September 2022 – March 2023

Which will have the task of discussing the text of the first Instrumentum Laboris. (working document prepared in due course outlining the structure of the Synod meeting)

Synod of Bishops (Rome)

October 2023

Finally, the synodal journey will culminate with the celebration of the XVI Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops on the theme “For a synodal Church: communion, participation and mission”. #Synod2023

Questions and Answers – Catholic Bishops’ Conference (cbcew.org.uk)

The three main areas of focus for the Synod Process will be:

Communion                          Participation                         Mission

The Preparatory Document for the Universal Church: Preparatory Document for the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops (vatican.va)

The Handbook for the Diocesan Phase of the Synodal Process beginning on 17^th October 2021: Vademecum-EN-A4.pdf (synod.va)

The Roadmap for the Diocesan Phase of the Process: Roadmap for the diocesan phase (synod.va)

The Website for the whole Synod Process: Synod 2021 – 2023

Fr Harry Curtis, Director for the Permanent Diaconate:

Despite the counter-attractions of sporting events at Lords, Silverstone and Wimbledon on Sunday (14 July) afternoon a large congregation gathered at St Chad’s Cathedral.

Permanent Deacons from across the Archdiocese, along with parishioners from St Marie’s parish in Rugby and Our Lady of Perpetual Succour, Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent, gathered together in unity.

The occasion? To celebrate Mass with Archbishop Bernard Longley during which he ordained two men from those parishes, Lionel Pelloquin and Paul Bradley, as Permanent Deacons.

The celebration of the Sacrament of Ordination of a Deacon is similar in form to that of a Priest – by prayer and the laying on of hands, as described from the earliest days of the Church – but the beautiful Prayer of Consecration emphasises the essential nature of the Diaconate, a call to service.

“Lord, send forth upon them the Holy Spirit, that they may be strengthened by the gift of your sevenfold grace to carry out faithfully the work of the ministry. May they excel in every virtue: in love that is sincere, in concern for the sick and the poor, in unassuming authority, in self-discipline and in holiness of life. May their conduct exemplify your commandments and lead your people to imitate their purity of life. May they remain strong and steadfast in Christ, giving to the world the witness of a pure conscience. May they in this life imitate your Son, who came, not to be served but to serve, and one day reign with Him in heaven.”

In his homily Archbishop Bernard spoke about the Gospel of the Good Samaritan and the personal call to service that it held for each of the Ordinandi and for their families.

The whole service was a joyful and prayerful celebration, and if anyone was observed checking their smart phones His Grace was able to assure us that it was merely to follow the Order of Service!

May God bless Lionel and Paul, their families and their parish communities. Ad Multos Annos.

If anyone would like to find out more about the Permanent Diaconate please contact Fr Harry Curtis, Director for the Permanent Diaconate, via sjtwcov@gmail.com

Hundreds gathered for the annual Chrism Mass at St Chad’s Cathedral yesterday (Wednesday 17th April).

Archbishop Bernard Longley was joined by the Bishops, and many of the priests and deacons of the Archdiocese, at the Holy Week service.

His Grace opened the Mass with special prayers to the clergy and people of Notre Dame, following the devastating fire earlier this week. He hoped the rebuilding of the Cathedral would act as an ‘instrument of evangelisation’.

At the Chrism Mass the Archbishop blessed the holy oils – the Oil of Catechumens, the Oil of the Sick and consecrated the Oil of Holy Chrism.

These will be used in the administration of the sacraments throughout the parishes of the Archdiocese in the course of the year.

Archbishop Longley also led the priests in renewing their promises to serve God and his people.

This Mass symbolises the unity of the Presbyterate as the Bishops, priests and deacons gather around the Archbishop.

During his Homily Archbishop Bernard gave thanks to the jubilarians, and all those celebrating special anniversaries of their priestly ordination this year.

Including: Diamond Jubilarians Bishop Philip Pargeter and Mgr John Heslin; Golden Jubilarians Frs Sandy Brown, Paul Chamberlain, John Darley, Christopher Handforth, Tony Joyce and Joseph Narikuhzi and Silver Jubilarians Frs Laurence Crowe and Anthony Pham-Tri-Van.

In July, Deacons Marco Egawhary, Ryan Service and John Waters will, please God, be anointed with the chrism consecrated today and ordained priests in the Cathedral.

It was standing room only at the service, which was accompanied throughout by the St Chad’s Cathedral Choir.

Read Archbishop Bernard’s Homily here

Photo Gallery

A rapidly changing landscape may be engulfing the Snow Hill skyline – but one constant is St Chad’s Cathedral.

The Pugin masterpiece was the first Catholic Cathedral erected in Great Britain in 1841 following the Reformation of the 16th century.

Its presence continues today, and St Chad’s is as welcoming as ever to visitors from far and wide.

With this in mind a special meeting recently took place (Thurs 11 April) between Archbishop Bernard Longley, head of the Archdiocese of Birmingham – of which St Chad’s is the Mother Church, staff and the firm behind one of the latest developments in the area.

The Ballymore Group is responsible for the multi-million pound development at Three Snowhill, which provides fantastic views of St Chad’s from its office space over 17 storeys.

As a neighbourly gesture the team at Ballymore invited Archbishop Bernard to take a tour of their new facility, followed by a meeting with Sean Mulryan, the Founder, Chairman and Group CEO.

Archbishop Bernard Longley said: “I was delighted to meet with Mr Sean Mulryan and to visit the impressive new building, Three Snowhill, as it nears completion.

“This will soon be home to approximately 4,000 city workers, our new neighbours.

“From their workplace they will have a brilliant view of St Chad’s Cathedral.

“I hope they will come to know that we will remember them in the prayers offered day by day in the Cathedral.”

Mr Mulryan added: “I was delighted that Archbishop Bernard Longley, head of the Archdiocese of Birmingham, accepted my invitation to visit Three Snowhill.

“The Catholic Church and parish activities play a vital role in communities across the world and Birmingham is no different.

“At Ballymore, we strive to ensure our developments are integrated into the local community which helps create a true sense of place and belonging for those who work in our office buildings but also the local community.

“I would like to thank Archbishop Longley and his staff for visiting and look forward to the opportunity of collaborating in the future.”

The Archdiocese is working hard to develop relationships with its new neighbours, and recently welcomed staff from St Joseph – which is behind the Snow Hill Wharf development – with a blessing at its site.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/155145153@N08/sets/72157704538174062/with/46869337524/

Image: Pope Francis walks with young people during his visit to the Sanctuary of the Holy House on the feast of the Annunciation in Loreto, Italy, March 25, 2019
Photo: CNS photo/Vatican Media

For Francis, the authority of the papacy does not rest on whether people kiss his ring but on faithfulness to the carpenter from Nazareth

There is no mention of it in the Gospels, nor is it a matter of Church doctrine or apostolic tradition. But the question of whether or not to kiss the ring of a Pope has been the subject of intense debate among Catholics after a video of Pope Francis awkwardly withdrawing his hand from some people greeting him at a shrine in Loreto went viral. 

The custom of kissing the ring of the Pope, or any bishop, was developed as a way of showing respect for the office that individual held and is also linked to kissing the hands of a newly ordained priest as a sign of respect for the sacraments that he will now bring to the people. 

One of the symbols of the papal office is the “Fisherman’s ring” (St Peter, the first Pope, was a fisherman) which dates back the 13th century as it was used to seal documents. Francis only wears the fisherman’s ring for special ceremonies and prefers to wear the one he had as Archbishop of Buenos Aires, in Argentina.

This kissing custom can seem strange to outsiders, but the Catholic faith takes symbolic gestures very seriously and is a sacramental religion which embraces the senses. During Mass the faithful consume Christ’s body and blood in the form of bread and wine; priests use water and oil when they baptise and, next month, on Good Friday, millions of believers will profess their faith by lining up to kiss a crucifix. 

There is always a danger, however, of mixing up the essentials of faith with the accruements of the past, and in this case, the focus is over a ritual attached to a time when Popes operated as quasi-monarchs exercising secular power.

A few caveats are needed before the Francis critics jump to the assumption that he is doing away with “yet another” tradition. 

In response to the furore, the Vatican says that sometimes the Pope likes the custom and sometimes not, and there is no sign he is going to issue a ruling on the practice (in fact, it was Benedict XVI who told journalist Peter Seewald he had formally abolished the custom although “no-one followed the new protocol”). The shorter viral video from Loreto should also be watched with the longer version which shows a number of people kissing Francis’ ring. 

There are also practical considerations. It is not uncommon for this Pope to try and individually meet several hundred people in a single day either in the Vatican or when traveling abroad. Waiting for people to bend down to kiss his ring is time-consuming, tiring and limits the number of individuals Francis can meet. 

Nevertheless, it is clear that that the natural preference for this Pope is for people to greet him and to maintain eye contact rather than dropping to their knees to kiss his hands. One of the reasons is that he has repeatedly called for Church leaders to maintain a “closeness” to its people, and for the world to develop a culture of  “encounter” – the ring kissing exercise places a barrier to both.

While it is no doubt sincerely intended by those who do it, kissing the ring creates a certain distance and cuts off any chance of talking to the Pope or engaging with him. While defenders of the practice say they are showing respect to the Pontificate, the reality is that it has become a way of reverencing an “idea” of the papacy that is remote and ossified in the past. 

Read More: https://www.thetablet.co.uk/news/11524/does-pope-francis-not-want-people-to-kiss-the-papal-ring-

An initiative of Catholic bishops in cooperation with the “Bible Society” will support and fund new proposals. The project includes a Gospel for people with autism and the Gospel of Matthew in sign language for hearing-impaired persons. Initiatives include a work of art brought across all twenty-two Catholic dioceses of England and Wales to “initiate a conversation with God” and concerts of migrant choirs

The year 2020 is dedicated to the rediscovery of the Holy Scriptures, on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the “Verbum Domini”, the apostolic exhortation of Pope Benedict, and 1600 years since the death of Saint Jerome. The initiative is jointly promoted by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales and the “Bible society”, a charity that brings the Bible to over 200 Countries. Fleur Dorrell, coordinator of the activities, illustrated the program to SIR.

Full immersion into the Scriptures. The ‘ Year of the God Who Speaks’ will begin next September 30^th at the National Gallery with a recorded message by Catholic Primate Vincent Nichols. This is an initiative planned by Catholic bishops in cooperation with the “Bible Society”, that will support and fund the new activities of the Year. The project includes a Gospel for people with autism and the Gospel of Matthew in sign language for hearing-impaired persons. Initiatives include a work of art brought across all twenty-two  Catholic dioceses of England and Wales to “initiate a conversation with God” and several concerts of migrant choirs.

Inspired by verbum Domini. Fleur Connell and the bishop of Wrexham Peter Brignall had the idea of dedicating twelve months to a full immersion into the Scriptures. “We are members of a study group on the Scriptures within the Evangelization and Catechesis department of the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales”, said Fleur Dorrell.
“We thought it would be a wonderful idea for the English Catholic Church to dedicate a full year to the Scriptures in an unprecedented manner. We were inspired by the tenth anniversary of Pope Benedict XVI’s Apostolic Exhortation  “Verbum Domini” and by the year marking 1600 years since the death of Saint Jerome, the Father and Doctor of the Church who translated the Greek text of most of the Old Testament into Latin and all the Hebrew Bible.”Kickoff at the National Gallery. The “Year of the God Who Speaks” will begin at the National Gallery on September 30th, Feast Day of Saint Jerome. In a video message screened with a portrait of the Saint in Trafalgar square, in the heart of London, Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Catholic Primate of England and Wales, will illustrate the figure of Saint Jerome and his import as pre-eminent Catholic Biblical scholar. “We wish to find new, unprecedented ways to promote the Bible “, said Fleur Dorrell. “Using creativity to communicate the message that the Bible is a thriving, dynamic way to speak of God.”

Activities for everyone. During the “Year of the God Who Speaks” the Catholic Church of England and Wales will have the opportunity to listen to the voices of a wide range of groups, giving special relevance to migrants and political refugees. “The choirs that will tour the Country will provide this group of people with the opportunity to express themselves in their native language thereby involving many different people through their music”, Dorrell pointed out.
“People with disabilities constitute another important group. We are reflecting on how to bring the Holy Scriptures to the visually-impaired or to people who are simply lacking the educational background to understand the Bible.” A truly ecumenical year. The coordinator of the “Year of the God Who Speaks” explained that organizations representing people with disabilities asked her to prepare a Gospel for visual learners addressed to individuals with autism, along with a Gospel of Matthew in sign language for people with hearing impairment.

Read More: https://agensir.it/europa/2019/01/29/great-britain-2020-will-be-dedicated-to-the-rediscovery-of-the-holy-scriptures/

Pope Francis should write a post-synodal apostolic exhortation following the close of the 2018 Synod of Bishops on young people, the faith and vocational discernment.

At the Sept. 18, 2018, press conference announcing the pope’s apostolic constitution Episcopalis Communio on changes to the rules concerning voting members and the preparation for synods, Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri, secretary general of the Synod of Bishops, suggested that Francis might elect not to write a post-synodal exhortation. He might simply affirm that the final synod document is taught exercising his ordinary magisterium, according to Baldisseri.

The practice of writing an apostolic exhortation after a Synod of Bishops became a regular practice during the pontificate of John Paul II, something Benedict XVI and Francis have continued up to now. After the Oct. 3-28, 2018, synod on young people, it is not yet clear what path the Holy Father will choose: write an apostolic exhortation or simply accept the synod’s final document as is.

Having studied the major synod documents — the preparatory document from January 2017, the young people’s pre-synodal meeting document from March 2018, the instrumentum laboris from June 2018, and now the final document of the Synod of Bishops — and followed as closely as possible the daily briefings about interventions from the floor, I feel strongly that the final synod document is not enough. There are at least a few reasons it remains inadequate.

It is a compromise document, which required the majority of delegates to approve the text, paragraph by paragraph, in order for it to be finally accepted. The result of this laborious approval process is exactly what one might expect: The language was watered down, certain topics were qualified or removed all together, and what began with the potential for a bold, prophetic and inspiring message was reduced to a disappointing state of unremarkable generality.

There are also clues in the final document itself that the bishops anticipated readers might be less than thrilled with their text. In a telling move, they suggest in the introduction that readers of the final document also read the instrumentum laboris alongside it for, in their estimation, these documents are complementary. Some bishops admitted that readers would notice that several themes appearing in the earlier working document were absent from the final document and might criticize the document or the process.

Their solution was to give extra homework to readers: Read both texts together. This adds another layer of complication.

What are readers to make of the mention of the themes or terms (e.g., use of acronym “LGBT”) found in the instrumentum laboris but absent in the final document? Which text takes precedence where there is a discrepancy? If the pope were not to write a post-synodal apostolic exhortation, then how would he account for this instruction to read the instrumentum laboris as the complement to the final document? Does he somehow bring these texts together?

There is currently no mechanism to resolve this novel tension.

There are also the issues of length, repetition and clarity. Insisting that readers of the final document must also read the pre-synodal working document only makes the material more cumbersome (the instrumentum laboris adds an additional 214 paragraphs to the final document’s already-lengthy 164 paragraphs) and confusing.

Beyond the confusion around how to negotiate the two-text solution, there is the matter of the uninspiring and, at times, didactic tone of the final document. A question that regularly surfaced for me while reading it was: For whom was this written? What is the audience of this text?

Francis’ vision of the synodal process is one of accompaniment, dialogue and listening. This conversational and inviting style resulted in an honest, direct and insightful response from the young people who gathered in March 2018. To a lesser degree, though still better than the final document, the instrumentum laboris carries a feeling of “we’re in this together,” regularly citing the feedback from young people as well as input from dioceses and bishops’ conferences around the world.

But the final document notably lacks this feel. Its tenor is more closely aligned with a “father knows best” approach, which speaks more in the royal “we” (as in “we, the bishops”) and addresses young adults in the second or third person rather than as fellow and equal members of the church, which is at the heart of Lumen Gentium and any Vatican II ecclesiology.

An example of this dissonant ecclesiological tone appears at the outset of the document. In the “preamble” of the text, the bishops recount the story of the resurrected Jesus appearing to the two disciples journeying on the road to Emmaus as depicted at the end of Luke’s Gospel. According to published reports from the English-speaking working groups, this pericope was selected to illustrate the spirit of accompaniment the bishops wished to highlight as the governing theme of synodality in general and the text on young people in particular.

But as Jesuit Fr. Thomas Reese observed, it seems that the bishops may have misidentified just who is which character in the narrative.

This is a truly magnificent story, but if the bishops think they are Jesus and young people are the disciples, they missed the whole point Francis was trying to make. We are all disciples, and the disciples’ confusion before Jesus joins them is reflective of the entire church. Or to put it another way, sometimes Jesus may be the young explaining things to the bishops.

There are several clear and simple reasons why it makes sense for Francis to write a post-synodal exhortation on young people.

First, young people deserve to be taken seriously and not just politely listened to and then treated with what might rightly be viewed as well-meaning paternalism (or, worse, condescension). A post-synodal apostolic exhortation could restate with directness and clarity the vision of synodality Francis signaled before and during the synod, a vision consistent throughout his pontificate. It calls for a disposition of accompaniment marked by mutuality, respect, humility, listening, openness to challenge, and good-faith understanding. Francis could address young people directly as his sisters and brothers, as the equal members of the body of Christ that they are, and not merely the ecclesiastical charges they appear to be in the eyes of some bishops.

Second, young people deserve assurance that their experiences matter and that, though confusing or even offensive to some synod participants, the diversity of their experiences is not a threat to authentic church life and communion but, as St. Paul once reminded the Corinthians, it is the very condition that makes the church possible in the first place.

To this end, Francis, who has not shied away from using the moniker “gay” and is known to have friends in same-sex relationships, could do a lot to build trust among LGBTQ persons by using the self-referential terms they prefer, thereby acknowledging their inherent dignity and value.

Third, young people deserve more direct answers to their queries about the role of women in the church and society. When half the world’s population is in question, the issue of women in the church is not merely a “Western ploy” or the agenda of “radical feminists,” but a matter that calls for serious and concerted reflection, change and implementation.

More inclusive leadership does not necessarily mean changing who is admitted to holy orders — appointing more female parish administrators, diocesan chancellors and curial officials is an approach that can begin today. But with the conclusion of the pontifical commission on women and the diaconate’s work in hand, Francis might take this opportunity to address female leadership in the church with changes to the diaconate.

Read More: https://www.ncronline.org/news/opinion/faith-seeking-understanding/young-people-deserve-hear-directly-pope-francis-synod

VATICAN CITY — The Vatican launched an official track team Thursday with the aim of competing in international competitions as part of an agreement signed with the Italian Olympic Committee.

About 60 Holy See runners — Swiss Guards, priests, nuns, pharmacists and even a 62-year-old professor who works in the Vatican’s Apostolic Library — are the first accredited members of Vatican Athletics. It’s the latest iteration of the Holy See’s long-standing promotion of sport as an instrument of dialogue, peace and solidarity.

Because of the agreement with CONI, the team is now a part of the Italian track association and is looking to join the International Association of Athletics Federations. It is hoping to compete in international competitions, including the Games of the Small States of Europe — open to states with fewer than 1 million people — and the Mediterranean Games.

“The dream that we have often had is to see the Holy See flag among the delegations at the opening of the Olympic Games,” said Monsignor Melchor Jose Sanchez de Toca y Alameda, team president and the head of the Vatican’s sports department in the culture ministry.

But he said that was neither a short-term nor medium-term goal, and that for now the Vatican was looking to participate in competitions that had cultural or symbolic value.

“We might even podium,” he noted.

Religions

Vatican pharmacist-runner Michela Ciprietti told a Vatican press conference the aim of the team isn’t exclusively competitive, but rather to “promote culture and running and launch the message of solidarity and the fight against racism and violence of all types.”

Read More: https://www.euronews.com/2019/01/11/vatican-new-track-team-nuns-priests-targets-olympics-n957496

Image @ Copyright : MAURIZIO BRAMBATTI

Press Release for immediate Release, 4.1.2019

The Lead Catholic Bishop for Migration and Asylum has called for asylum seekers crossing the English Channel to be treated with dignity and spoken out against the dehumanising rhetoric that has characterised debate in recent weeks.

Bishop Paul McAleenan said today:

“All people fleeing their homes and seeking to build a better life here should be recognised as human beings and treated with dignity

As the focus on refugees now turns towards the English Channel, we should keep in mind that our priority must always be saving lives and playing our part in offering sanctuary to those escaping war or persecution.

Rhetoric and policies that dehumanise or stigmatise people only serve to fuel hostility and harm our society.”

Bishop Paul has previously called for the UK government to go further in assisting asylum seekers during a visit to Calais with his Scottish counterpart in 2017 and following the signing of the Sandhurst Treaty last year.

http://catholicnews.org.uk/channel-refugees

Pope Francis delivered a homily at Mass on New Year’s Day, the Solemnity of the Mother of God. On 1 January, the Church also observes the World Day of Peace.

Full official English translation of Pope Francis’ homily for the Mass on New Year’s Day

Homily of His Holiness Pope Francis
Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God

1 January 2018

The year opens in the name of the Mother.  Mother of God is the most important title of Our Lady.  But we might ask why we say Mother of God, and not Mother of Jesus.  In the past some wanted to be content simply with the latter, but the Church has declared that Mary is the Mother of God.  We should be grateful, because these words contain a magnificent truth about God and about ourselves.  From the moment that our Lord became incarnate in Mary, and for all time, he took on our humanity.  There is no longer God without man; the flesh Jesus took from his Mother is our own, now and for all eternity.  To call Mary the Mother of God reminds us of this: God is close to humanity, even as a child is close to the mother who bears him in her womb.

The word mother (mater) is related to the word matter.  In his Mother, the God of heaven, the infinite God, made himself small, he became matter, not only to be with us but also to be like us.  This is the miracle, the great novelty!  Man is no longer alone; no more an orphan, but forever a child.  The year opens with this novelty.  And we proclaim it by saying: Mother of God!  Ours is the joy of knowing that our solitude has ended.  It is the beauty of knowing that we are beloved children, of knowing that this childhood of ours can never be taken away from us.  It is to see a reflection of ourselves in the frail and infant God resting in his mother’s arms, and to realize that humanity is precious and sacred to the Lord.  Henceforth, to serve human life is to serve God.  All life, from life in the mother’s womb to that of the elderly, the suffering and the sick, and to that of the troublesome and even repellent, is to be welcomed, loved and helped.

Let us now be guided by today’s Gospel.  Only one thing is said about the Mother of God: “Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart” (Lk 2:19).  She kept them.  She simply kept; Mary does not speak.  The Gospel does not report a single word of hers in the entire account of Christmas.  Here too, the Mother is one with her Son: Jesus is an “infant”, a child “unable to speak”.  The Word of God, who “long ago spoke in many and various ways” (Heb 1:1), now, in the “fullness of time” (Gal 4:4), is silent.  The God before whom all fall silent is himself a speechless child.  His Majesty is without words; his mystery of love is revealed in lowliness. This silence and lowliness is the language of his kingship.  His Mother joins her Son and keeps these things in silence.

That silence tells us that, if we would “keep” ourselves, we need silence.  We need to remain silent as we gaze upon the crib.  Pondering the crib, we discover anew that we are loved; we savour the real meaning of life.  As we look on in silence, we let Jesus speak to our heart.  His lowliness lays low our pride; his poverty challenges our outward display; his tender love touches our hardened hearts.  To set aside a moment of silence each day to be with God is to “keep” our soul; it is to “keep” our freedom from being corroded by the banality of consumerism, the blare of commercials, the stream of empty words and the overpowering waves of empty chatter and loud shouting.

Read More: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2018-01/pope-homily-new-year-2018-mother-of-god-full-text.html

Milestone marriages are to be celebrated by the Archdiocese of Birmingham and the hunt is now on to find the longest married couple!

As part of Marriage Week, which runs from February 7 to 14, a Thanksgiving Mass is to be held at St Chad’s Cathedral at 11am on Sunday 3 February.

And if couples aren’t able to get to the cathedral, it is hoped celebratory Masses will be said across the diocese to ensure all milestone marriages are marked.

Lianne Pap, Family Ministry Worker for the diocese, has been tasked with pulling together the plans for Marriage Week.

“Archbishop Bernard Longley will be celebrating the Thanksgiving Mass for couples that have reached a milestone in their marriage – five, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 45, 50, 60 and even 70 years of marriage,” said Lianne.

“This has never been done for the whole diocese before and I’m really hoping to find the longest married couple.”

Marriage Week UK is co-ordinated by Marriage Foundation and runs each year. It’s hailed a great annual focus for couples with the belief marriages can get better and better with each passing year.

If you are celebrating a milestone marriage and would like to be a part of the Thanksgiving Mass please email lianne.pap@rc-birmingham.org – marking your email ‘Marriage Week’.

CATENIANS PROVINCE 6 (MIDLANDS) ANNUAL MASS FOR DECEASED MEMBERS AND THEIR FAMILIES

By Peter Harrington

Over 200 members of the Catenians Association attended their Annual Mass at St Chad’s Cathedral, accompanied with their wives and families.

Before Mass began yesterday (Sun 3 Nov), the Provincial President, Danny McAree, read out a memorial list of all members and ladies who had died in the last 12 months.

A beautifully balanced quintet of voices, accompanied by David Saint on the Cathedral organ, led the congregation in the Psalm and Hymns.

Mass was celebrated by Bishop Robert Byrne, supported by three Catenian Deacons, with a team of altar servers from many parts of the Diocese.

Bishop Robert gave a warming homily, reminding the congregation of the lifetime values in strengthening family life through friendship and faith.

After Mass there was an enjoyable celebration with light refreshments in the Grimshaw Room, where there were many “remember when” conversations over happy memories.

Saidul Haque Saeed
Lead Organiser

Canon Gerry Breen recently hosted a special event by Citizens UK at St Chad’s Cathedral to mark four years of community organising to make Birmingham a more welcoming city for refugees and migrant communities.

Citizens UK: Birmingham is an independent civil society alliance of faith, education, trade union and community institutions.

54 leaders from across the city reflected on the successful community organising campaign to resettle Syrian refugees from UN Camps to Birmingham, and recognised Councillors Tristan Chatfield, Waseem Zaffar and Alex Yip with Claire Spencer for their leadership and support.

Pupils from St Francis’ Catholic Primary School in Lozells shared their personal testimonies on being part of a refugee welcome school with Mrs Wade pointing out the school’s excellent SATs results.

Students from the CORE Education Trust presented a brilliant new city project called Echo Eternal, remembering the survivors of the Holocaust and the reflections they have for us.

A host of other Citizens UK leaders shared news on current projects: Community sponsorship, the Business leaders project and the Islam & Public Life Commission.

Three moving personal stories introduced a new campaign, 80 years on. It’s Our Turn click here – which received the backing of Cllr Tristan Chatfield at Birmingham City Council to take in 80 child refugees on first instance dependent on securing funding from Government.

If you would like to get involved or find out more please email Saidul.haque@citizensuk.org

Earlier this week (Tues 9 Oct) Newman University celebrated its Feast Day Mass of Blessed John Henry Newman at St Chad’s Cathedral Birmingham, where Archbishop Bernard Longley and Bishop Christopher Budd led the celebratory service.

The service was attended by current and retired staff, friends of the university, students and alumni.

The event was one of the highlights of the university’s 50th anniversary year.

The university choir performed which made the occasion all the more special.

Click here for information on this event

St. Chad’s Cathedral Carol Service – Sunday 16^th December 2018 – followed by mulled wine and mince pies in the Grimshaw Room.  Please come along and listen to our magnificent Cathedral singers under the direction of Professor David Saint sing a variety of Christmas songs and carols interspersed with readings from the scriptures.  All are welcome. NO CHARGE.

Click here for information on this event

St Chad’s Cathedral, Birmingham, was the venue for the fourth in a series of special Stella Maris (Star of the Sea) Masses taking place around Britain’s “port” cathedrals and churches to thank God for the work of the Apostleship of the Sea and to pray for the welfare of seafarers.  

The Apostleship of the Sea is the fully recognised worldwide Catholic organisation for which a collection is made throughout Britain each year to support the work done by them in supporting seafarers when in port, arranging Masses for them where possible, and giving general pastoral care.

Many of the mariners spend many months at sea, away from their homes, and without having the opportunity of attending Mass, etc., and so the help given by the AoS is of very important.

At the invitation of His Grace Archbishop Bernard Longley, this is the first time that the Birmingham Cathedral the Mass of “Our Blessed Virgin Mary Stella Maris” for the AoS.  Birmingham may not be a port, but the AoS has many supporters living within the Archdiocese.

Apostleship of the Sea National Director Martin Foley said, “We were delighted to celebrate our first Stella Maris Mass in the Archdiocese of Birmingham and would like to thank Archbishop Bernard and the Cathedral Dean, Canon Gerry Breen, for their hospitality.”

“The Archdiocese of Birmingham has always been a very generous supporter of the work of AoS so it was wonderful to have the opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to our supporters and those priests who have served as Apostleship of the Sea cruise chaplains in the diocese.”

For more details about the AoS, please visit apostleshipofthesea.org.uk or contact 020 7901 1931.

Archbishop Bernard Longley ordained two men to the priesthood at St Chad’s Cathedral on Saturday 7 July.

The cathedral was filled with parishioners, clergy, friends and family who gathered to witness this important moment and to wish the two new priests joy in their vocation.

The two candidates, Jason Mahoney, who was deacon at St Chad’s Cathedral and Robert Carey, who was deacon at St Dunstan’s, King’s Heath, were presented by Canon David Oakley, Rector of St Mary’s College, Oscott.

During the ordination rite, the candidates promise ‘to celebrate the mysteries of Christ, faithfully and religiously… for the glory of God and the sanctification of Christ’s people.’ 

In his homily, His Grace, Archbishop Bernard Longley said: “Today’s ordination is the clearest answer that God could give to our prayers for priestly vocations.

“It comes in the shape of two men who have been discerning our Lord’s call for many years, along the highways and the byways of their lives.”

The Archbishop noted the candidates followed in the footsteps of others who moved a distance to serve in the Midlands- St Chad, Blessed John Henry Newman and Blessed Dominic Barberi.

“Jason and Robert, you have been called from different backgrounds and experiences to share in the one priesthood of Jesus Christ. 

“Today a little bit of Yorkshire determination and a whisper of the Wirral enrich the presbyterate of the Archdiocese. 

“You have both come to appreciate what it means to belong to uproot yourselves and to serve where the Lord is sending you.  As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.”

Newly ordained, Fr Jason Mahoney will be appointed as Curate at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Redditch and Fr Robert Carey will be appointed as Curate at The Immaculate Conception, Bicester

Please keep them in your prayers, along with all our other priests in this, the diocesan #YearforPriests

It was a sight to behold at St Chad’s Cathedral today (Sat 17 Feb) as hundreds of altar servers from across the Diocese gathered to take part in this year’s Guild of St Stephen Annual Mass.

The procession of altar servers stopped passers-by in their tracks as they made their way from the crypt into the cathedral.

With more than 200 altar servers of all ages, and their families, gathered for the event, it was standing room only inside.

The Principal Celebrant at the Mass was The Right Reverend Robert Byrne, Auxiliary Bishop of Birmingham, who was joined by several concelebrating priests and deacons, and representatives from the Guild Archconfraternity of Westminster.

The Mass was also Fr Michael Dolman’s first as Diocesan Director of the Guild of St Stephen.

During his Homily, Bishop Byrne said: “It is a great pleasure for me to say this Mass for you.

“It gives the Diocese an opportunity to thank you.

“Altar servers perform a very important part of the Church’s life. Mass is the centre of everything we do. That moment we encounter the Lord.”

He continued: “You should be examples to your parishioners for the love of the Mass and the love of God.”

Following the Mass a period of Adoration was observed, before refreshments were served.

The Guild of St Stephen is an international organisation of altar servers, founded in England in 1904 by Fr Hamilton McDonald. The Guild has spread and developed since then.

The objectives of the Guild are: To encourage, positively and practically, the highest standards of serving at the Church’s liturgy and so contribute to the whole community’s participation in a more fruitful worship of God. To provide altar servers with a greater understanding of what they are doing so that they may serve with increasing reverence and prayerfulness and thereby be led to a deepening response to their vocation in life. To unite servers of different parishes and dioceses for their mutual support and encouragement.

Almost 140 people – including the Catholic Archbishop of Birmingham and the Anglican bishops of Lichfield, Birmingham and Aston – took part in an historic walk of friendship from Birmingham to Lichfield on Saturday, 23 September.

• The 18-mile St Chad Pilgrimage marked the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. The walk began at the Midlands hub of the Roman Catholic Church – the Metropolitan Cathedral Church and Basilica of St Chad, Birmingham – and ended at Lichfield Cathedral, which was founded in AD 700 on Chad’s burial site. Mgr Tim Menezes, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Birmingham carried a relic of St Chad along the way, which was placed in the Shrine of St Chad at Lichfield Cathedral for the duration of the visit.

The Bishop of Lichfield, the Right Revd Dr Michael Ipgrave, said: “The example of St Chad is as relevant today as it was over 1,300 years ago when he became the first Bishop of Lichfield. Chad, a Northumbrian, crossed boundaries in a pioneer ministry, winning over the pagan Mercians throughout what is now the modern-day Midlands. It was fantastic on Saturday to journey as 21^st century pilgrims together from Birmingham to Lichfield and follow in Chad’s footsteps, building bridges of trust, kinship and kindness.”

The Roman Catholic Archbishop of Birmingham, the Most Revd Bernard Longley, said: “I was delighted to take part in the ecumenical pilgrimage walk from St Chad’s Cathedral, Birmingham to Lichfield Cathedral in company with Bishop Michael and representatives from so many branches of the Church.

“Walking, praying and witnessing together in this way was a practical demonstration of our commitment to the unity of the Church and our mutual regard for the legacy of the great missionary, St Chad. The pilgrimage walk enabled us to deepen our friendships in Christ and to pray for the intercession of St Chad for all those who bring the good news of Jesus Christ to the people of the Midlands today.”

Pilgrimage organiser Robert Mountford added: “The St Chad Pilgrimage celebrated the fact that, 500 years on from the Reformation, Catholics and Protestants have resolved many of the doctrinal issues that once separated them and are now, more than ever before, walking, praying and working together in respect, friendship and co-operation.”

The full list of church leaders who took part in some, or all, of the walk were:

• The Most Revd Bernard Longley, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Birmingham
• Mgr Timothy Menezes, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Birmingham
• The Right Revd Dr Michael Ipgrave, Anglican Bishop of Lichfield
• The Right Revd David Urquhart, Anglican Bishop of Birmingham
• Revd Ian Howarth, Chair of the Birmingham District of the Methodist Church
• Revd Adrian Argile, Regional Minister Team Leader for the Heart of England Baptist Association
• Revd Steve Faber, Moderator of the West Midlands Synod of the United Reformed Church
• Majors Peter and Julie Forrest, Divisional Leaders, The Salvation Army West Midlands Division

Pilgrims were sent on their way at 9am with a blessing by Canon Father Gerry Breen, Dean of St Chad’s Cathedral, and received an official welcome from Canon Custos Peter Holliday upon arrival at Lichfield Cathedral at 6pm.

Nearly one hundred years ago, from May to October 1917, Our Lady appeared to three young shepherd children, Jacinta and Francisco Marto, and Lucia dos Santos, at Fatima in Portugal. In 2017, the World Apostolate of Fatima (WAF) in England and Wales will be promoting the Centenary of the Fatima apparitions through a programme of visitations to Cathedrals by the National Pilgrim Virgin Statue of Our Lady of Fatima, and Relics of Blessed Jacinta and Francisco.

This will start with a Visitation of the Statue and Relics to Westminster Cathedral on Saturday 18 February 2017, with Cardinal Vincent Nichols crowning the statue and presiding at Mass, and will continue until October with visits to 18 of the Cathedrals in England and Wales, including the St Chad’s Cathedral in Birmingham Archdiocese, from 29-30 July 2017. For details about these Visitations go to: www.worldfatima-englandwales.org.uk/visitation.html

The work of the WAF involves promoting the message that Our Lady gave at Fatima, when she spoke of the necessity of personal conversion, penance, and prayer, and particularly the importance of praying the Rosary for peace. She also asked for the Five First Saturdays devotion of reparation and the consecration of Russia, and promised that in the end her Immaculate Heart would triumph and a period of peace would be given to the world. The international World Apostolate of Fatima was officially approved by the Church as a Public Association of the Faithful of Pontifical Right in October 2010.

The Fatima message is more relevant than ever today, especially for the family. Pope St John Paul II said that the Church accepted the message of Fatima because it repeats Our Lord’s call: ‘Repent and believe in the Gospel’ (Mk 1:15); and after the beatification of Francisco and Jacinta on 13 May 2000, he said it is, ‘a message of conversion and hope which is the true Gospel of Christ’.

In 2006, Pope Benedict XVI expressed the hope that ‘the message of Fatima will be increasingly accepted, understood and lived in every community,’ and Pope Francis, too, has been very supportive of Fatima, and is due to visit the Shrine in May 2017.

A special Centenary Crown is being made in Portugal for the National Pilgrim Virgin Statue of Our Lady of Fatima. This will accompany the Statue as it journeys around England and Wales, and be used to crown it during the Visitations.

Pope Francis has granted a special Fatima Centenary Plenary indulgence, under the usual conditions, from 27 November 2016 to 26 November 2017, for those who go on Pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Fatima, or visit an image of Our Lady of Fatima which is being publicly venerated on the 13 of each month from May to October 2017. Those who cannot travel can fulfil the conditions in front of a small image of Our Lady of Fatima.

The Pope’s initiative prompts the question: do I know what Our Lady asked of me at Fatima, and am I complying with her requests? The new CTS booklet, Message and Prayers of Fatima and also Sr Lucia’s Memoirs – Fatima in Lucia’s own words, vol. 1 – which they also stock, will help us to respond to these questions. www.ctsbooks.org)
The centenary year is important since it offers the Church a chance to look again at the message of Fatima – which is really a compendium of the Gospel for our times – and realise that the Fatima message and the Rosary are powerful weapons against modern secularism. The most important thing is not to let the centenary go by without doing something to deepen one’s knowledge of Fatima.

More information about the World Apostolate of Fatima and the Message of Fatima can be found on the website of the WAF International Secretariat, at: www.worldfatima.com
And you can see more details about the WAF England and Wales at: www.worldfatima-englandwales.org.uk

By Donal Foley, Birmingham

The new Anglican Bishop of Lichfield, the Right Reverend Dr Michael Ipgrave, has paid a visit to St Chad’s Catholic Cathedral in Birmingham, to pray and to venerate the relic of St Chad prior to his installation in September.  Welcoming him, Archbishop Bernard Longley described it as an opportunity to give thanks for all that Anglicans and Catholics share in faith.  They prayed  together in silence in front of the relic which was placed on the Altar; Archbishop Longley led a prayer for Bishop Ipgrave’s ministry as well as Lichfield Cathedral and its parishioners. Bishop Ipgrave reciprocated and then concluded by saying the prayer of St Chad. The Very Rev’d Adrian Dorber, Dean of Lichfield, was also in attendance.

Lichfield is among the earliest centres of Christian worship in the UK.  St Chad went in 669 to be the first Bishop in Lichfield and so impressive was his teaching and so genuine was the way he practised what he preached, that on his death his remains quickly became venerated and a place of pilgrimage.  The Dean of St Chad’s Cathedral, Canon Gerry Breen, said that up to the reformation St Chad was a saint for all people and was now uniting people again: “It’s wonderful that we came together to share things that unite us – he is our common patron. This historic visit by Bishop Michael  marks a change in theology and mission and reflects Christ’s prayer that we may be one.  It also reflects the working together on many levels that takes place between our two churches. It was a great gesture for Bishop Michael to come here and a sign of his generosity to work more closely. Both Cathedrals follow the pilgrim path of Chad.”

Canon Breen and Bishop David McGough, auxiliary of Birmingham,  were appointed as Ecumenical Canons of Lichfield Cathedral in November, the first in the Cathedral’s history.  Among Lichfield Cathedral’s many treasures is the exquisite 8th century sculpture of the ‘Lichfield Angel’ from the St Chad’s tomb chest, as well as the St Chad Gospels – which are  older than the Book of Kells.

After his forthcoming installation, Bishop Ipgrave will assume responsibility for one of the Church of England’s largest dioceses, leading an  episcopal team with the Bishops of Wolverhampton, Stafford and Shrewsbury.  When his appointment was announced he said: “I’ve had twelve wonderful years in London but I am so looking forward to coming back to the Midlands. Lichfield is the mother church of the Midlands, and the city of St Chad, a man of great humility and profound Christian faith.”

Hundreds of people made the journey to St Chad’s to venerate the miraculous relic image of Our Lady of Guadalupe which was brought there for six days in May.

Pope Saint John Paul II proclaimed in 1979: ‘The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe will be the centre from which the light of the gospel of Christ will illuminate the entire world by the means of distribution of the Miraculous Image of His mother.’ To that end he authorized 220 digital replicas of the miraculous image Our Lady of Guadalupe. The Miraculous Relic Image that is now in England, when not being brought around the country, is exposed to the public at The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Bedford.

The pilgrimage programme in Birmingham started with a service of Reception and Solemn Guadalupe Mass of Our Lady attended by several hundred people. The next day brought over a thousand people to the Cathedral for the 2016 March for Life, Our Lady of Guadalupe as Protectress of the unborn, was patroness of the March. The congregation were led in the veneration of the Relic Image by Bishop Robert Byrne, Auxiliary of Birmingham, Bishop Patrick McKinney Bishop of Nottingham and Bishop Emmanuel Ade Badjeo from Nigeria. Prior to the march starting, long lines of pilgrims queued patiently for a chance to venerate, which the organisers described as one of the many highlights of the pilgrimage visit.

The following day, the Cathedral was again packed for Birmingham Children’s Hospital annual Memorial Mass; many attending understood the significance of Our Lady of Guadalupe and her Relic Image, under the title Protectress of the unborn and Pilgrim Queen of the family. Veneration of the Miraculous Relic Image then continued on a daily basis.

Guardians from the Shrine in Bedford were assisted during the six days of pilgrimage by local Knights of St Columba.

On December 12 of each year, the Church celebrates the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, marking the day when, in 1531, the Blessed Mother appeared in Mexico to a 57-year old peasant named Juan Diego. In trying to convince the church authorities of this, Juan Diego eventually was asked for a sign to prove what he had seen. Upon returning to Mary and sharing this with her, Juan Diego was instructed to climb to the top of the hill to gather flowers to bring back. Reaching the crest of the hill, Juan Diego found Castilian roses, which were neither in season nor native to the region. The Blessed Mother arranged the flowers herself in Juan’s tilma – a type of cloak – and instructed him to open the cloak only upon return to the bishop. When Juan Diego arrived back at the bishop’s residence and opened his cloak, the flowers fell to the floor and left on the surface of the tilma was the image that’s come to be known as ‘Our Lady of Guadalupe’.

by Ernest Northey
Knights of St Columba

A Mass of thanksgiving for the newly appointed Bishop of Nottingham, Patrick McKinney, has taken place at St Chad’s Cathedral. Bishop Pat was a priest of the Archdiocese of Birmingham before being ordained to the episcopate in July and many of his  former parishoners in Stourbridge  travelled in to St Chad’s for the celebration. During the Mass Bishop Pat was presented with  a new Crozier, made in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter by the same craftsman who made the silverware for the Beatification of Cardinal Newman by Pope Benedict XV1 at Cofton Park five years ago — Desmond McCarthy from Avon Silversmiths,  a parishioner of Corpus Christi, Stechford, Birmingham.

Desmond McCarthy with Bishop Pat Mckinney

Archbishop Bernard Longley said that over the years, wherever Bishop Pat had  served, he was very conscious of the responsibilities entrusted to him in furtherance of the mission of the Archdiocese and had been  dedicated and conscientious.  He said the clergy, Religious and lay faithful of Nottingham will find in him a devoted pastor.    The Archbishop said that as Bishop Pat leads his people in the years ahead he will see the cross of St Chad set in the crook of his crozier and be reminded of the prayers and affection of his old diocesan family.   Bishop Pat expressed his heartfelt thanks and assured the people of the Archdiocese that he would remember them in prayer.

Bishop Pat  was born on 30th April 1954,  the eldest son of Patrick and Bridget McKinney.  He was brought up in Birmingham and began his studies for the priesthood at in St Mary’s College, Oscott, the Archdiocese of Birmingham’s seminary for the training of priests, in 1972; he was ordained to the priesthood on 29th July 1978 in St Mary’s Church, Buncrana, Co Donegal, Ireland, where his family lives.

After his Ordination he was appointed assistant priest in the parish of Our Lady of Lourdes, Yardley Wood, Birmingham, and chaplain to St Thomas Aquinas Secondary School, Kings Norton, Birmingham. Between 1982 and 1984, he was a student at the Gregorian Pontifical University, Rome, where he gained a Licence in Sacred Theology. Returning to the Archdiocese of Birmingham, he taught fundamental theology in St Mary’s College until 1989, when he was appointed Rector of St Mary’s College, a post he held for nine years, during which period he was also a lecturer in ecclesiology, the theology of the Church.

He left the College in 1998, and until 2001 he was parish priest of St John’s, Great Haywood, and Episcopal Vicar for the north of the Archdiocese of Birmingham. He left the parish in 2001, remaining as Episcopal Vicar until 2006 when he was appointed parish priest of Our Lady and All Saints, Stourbridge and Dean of the Dudley Deanery.

He was made a Prelate of Honour in 1990 and a member of the Metropolitan Chapter of St Chad in 1992, and  served for a time as Chair of the Birmingham Archdiocesan Ecumenical Commission.

He was appointed tenth Bishop of Nottingham in succession to Most Rev Malcolm McMahon OP, Archbishop of Liverpool, on 14th May 2015, and was ordained to the episcopate by Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster, in St Barnabas’ Cathedral, Nottingham on Friday 3rd July 2015.

Birmingham shares its week in Lourdes with fellow pilgrims and friends from the dioceses of Middlesbrough and Plymouth. Following our inter-diocesan Mass Mgr Charlie Cavanagh, former pilgrimage director for the Scottish diocese of Paisley who travelled with Birmingham for our anniversary, is pictured in front of the Grotto with Canon Gerry Breen greeting newly appointed Chaplain d’honneur for Lourdes Fr Paul Farrer. Until recently Fr Paul was the director for Middlesbrough, and he continues to serve his diocese as Vocations Director and Youth Chaplain.

During the week Middlesbrough diocese presented Birmingham with a cake to mark the anniversary of our 75th pilgrimage. A celebration was held with the sick in the accueil.

Canon Gerry Breen
St Chad’s, Birmingham

A branch of the poverty charity, the St Vincent de Paul Society (SVP), which hands out food at a Birmingham city centre soup kitchen has won funding that will secure its work for a year. The SVP group, from Our Lady of Mount Carmel church in Redditch, was one of the winners in a competition run by the charity ‘Lovebrum’ which supports smaller charities in the Midlands. The group had to post a short film about its work on Lovebrum’s website under the title ‘Serve Our Brummies’. Registered members of Lovebrum then voted for who they thought should win, with eight charities vying for the cash. The SVP group will receive two and a half thousand pounds; a spokesman for Lovebrum expressed delight that the charity’s members loved ‘Serve Our Brummies’ so much and said the award was well deserved and just the start of a relationship which could see further funding in the future.

The Redditch SVP group turns up twice a month to hand out food and clothing to the homeless at the Birmingham City Centre Soup Kitchen, which helps between seventy and one-hundred-and-forty people in need every night. It is one of six SVP groups from the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Birmingham, which supports the Soup Kitchen project. The group’s Steve Martin welcomed the award, saying ‘it shows how the people of Birmingham are aware of the need to support those most vulnerable in the city.’

Bernadette Kehoe
Birmingham

On Sunday 14th June, Archbishop Bernard Longley celebrated the Association of St Chad’s Mass in the beautiful adorned cathedral of St Chad.

The closure of the Flower Festival served as a stunning backdrop for the Mass and a pertinent setting for His Grace to comment on the Pope’s forthcoming encyclical on the environment: ‘We are told that its title is Laudato Sii, calling to mind the words of the psalm May you be praised, O Lord.  It is expected that Pope Francis will focus on human dignity and compassion for the world’s most vulnerable people, on human ecology and care for creation, and on authentic human development.’

The Archbishop spoke of how the flower festival reflected on the parables and presented the opportunity of a mini-pilgrimage, changing us in some way as we ponder each display. He compared this to the purpose of the Pope’s encyclical letter which will assist us in reflecting on the way we treat the human lives of our neighbours, and help us focus on the environment which we share with them.

To read Archbishop Longley’s homily in full, please click here: StChad’sAssociationMass150614

Tuesday 24 March 2015 was the 35^th anniversary of Archbishop Oscar Romero’s martyrdom and the sixth Romero Mass at St Chad’s Cathedral.

The day started with 100 Year Nine students from schools across the Diocese taking part in a CAFOD “Dragon’s Den”. In an energetic workshop, teams had to prepare to ‘pitch’ an idea for a development project to a panel made up of CAFOD volunteers and teachers. The teams were enthusiastic in learning about the communities of El Salvador and the challenges they face.

The schools joined others for the Diocesan Romero Mass in St Chad’s Cathedral, where music was provided by students of Hagley High School, the readers by Bishop Challoner Catholic College and the gifts were offered by St Chad’s Primary School.

Bishop David McGough presided at the Mass and his homily reflected on the hope and the joy of the Resurrection, enabling CAFOD staff and volunteers to continue to do their work despite being faced daily with human suffering, saying “because we believe we share in Christ’s death and resurrection, we die to poverty, violence and injustice and we are raised up in Him who is perfect justice”. Bishop David spoke of Oscar Romero’s devotion to working in Christ’s name and of his example to all who work to create God’s Kingdom: “In giving we are part of Christ; we reach out to others, because in doing so we become part of Him”

Clare Dixon, Head of Latin America at CAFOD and a founding trustee of the Archbishop Romero Trust spoke at a reception after Mass. Clare has worked in Latin America for many years and has witnessed Romero’s legacy in the people of many countries. Clare said of Archbishop Romero: “in his life through his homilies, broadcast on radio across the country, he was always the voice of the voiceless; in his death he became the name of the nameless”. In 1978, CAFOD funded the rebuilding of the radio station which broadcast Romero’s homilies, when it was blown up by those who opposed Romero; Clare spoke of Romero’s homilies ringing through the streets of El Salvador every Sunday from radios in homes and cars. Romero called on us all to be “microphones of God”.

For many in Latin America, Romero has been long-hailed a saint and so his beatification in May this year will be a time of great celebration of the first Central American saint. Clare gave a simple summary of Romero from the point of view of the Salvadorian people:

“he spoke the truth, he defended the poor and so they killed him”

Friday, 7 November 2014 was the date of the eleventh annual dinner of the St Chad’s Cathedral Association. We were delighted that our president, Archbishop Bernard Longley, was once again our principal guest. As usual the dinner was held in the Canons’ Dining Room in Cathedral House. This fine room was decorated with vibrant displays of autumnal fruits and flowers which added to the atmosphere. Some seventy members and their friends sat down to a sumptuous meal. John Green, the Cathedral chef, made sure everyone’s taste was catered for by offering an excellent choice of courses. The meal was well served by five teenage waitresses who added youthful glamour to the room. Four of the girls were from St Paul’s School, Edgbaston and the fifth was one of the Symonds’ granddaughters. The wine flowed before and during the meal and it was a most enjoyable and convivial evening. This ever more popular event raised about £2,500 for the Cathedral.
My thanks to Canon Gerry Breen, Cathedral Dean and Chairman of the Association for allowing us to use the Canons’ Dining Room. Many thanks also to John Green, our chef, and Eileen Brennan his helper for all their work behind the scenes. John is already thinking about next years’ menu!

After the meal we were treated to a very different form of entertainment from earlier years – a trombone quartet called the English Trombone Consort. The four players were: Adrian Taylor, Kevin Pitt, Carl Fletcher and Robert Green. The English Trombone Consort was formed earlier this year by these four highly experienced professional trombone players from the Midlands. Between them they have well over 100 years of professional performing experience, both in this country and abroad, as soloists, orchestral players and with various chamber ensembles. Each player has a strong association with the city of Birmingham and they have each performed many times in the various concert venues across the city. The vast and diverse performing experiences of each of the four players, brings together a mature and stylistic approach to the ensemble’s equally diverse repertoire.

This very diverse programme had something to suit everyone. It started with Achieved Is The Glorious Work (from The Creation) by Franz Joseph Haydn, to Ave Verum by Mozart, followed by Locus Iste by Anton Bruckner and the tenth and final piece was Mr Sandman by Pat Ballard arr. By David Weller. This very atmospheric programme was devised by Adrian Taylor, a very good friend of the Cathedral.

The St Chad’s Cathedral Association makes an important contribution to the life of the Metropolitan Cathedral and Basilica of St Chad, a hidden gem designed by Pugin situated on the edge of Birmingham’s famous Jewellery Quarter. 2016 will be the 175th anniversary of St Chad’s.

St Chad’s Cathedral saw a full congregation for the annual Mass held by Province 6 of the Catenian Association to remember their deceased members and their families. The Mass held on Saturday 15 November was celebrated by the Right Reverend William Kenny CP, Auxiliary Bishop of Birmingham.

Prior to Mass, Provincial President of Province 6; Alan Burgess read out the names of twelve members of the Association who had died in the previous year and sadly also added to that list the name of a well known and respected member; Brother Chris Boyle of North Warwickshire Circle who had passed away that very morning.

In a thought provoking homily to an attentive congregation; Bishop William made mention that he had been in France earlier that week to remember those who had died in the World Wars and how it is right and fitting that we remember those who have gone before us; but that we also remember that all people are made in the image of God.

A particular feature of the Mass was the fact that with the exception of the Celebrant everyone on the Altar was a Catenian; including Deacons, Altar Servers, Readers and Eucharistic ministers; a true reflection of the contribution the Association and it’s members gives to the Church and Diocese in support of the faith.

A retiring collection for the Cathedral Restoration Fund was taken following the service, after which Brothers, family and friends collected in the Grimshaw Room for light refreshments. Provincial President Alan and his wife, Shirley then presided over lunch taken in the Canons Dining Room in Cathedral House.

In all, another magnificent, prayerful and rememberable Province 6 Catenian occasion.

On Wednesday 15 October, the Confirmandi from St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School in Walsall visited St Chad’s Cathedral with their teachers.

Having arrived promptly, pupils and staff enjoyed a most comprehensive and illuminating tour of the cathedral, conducted by our knowledgeable guide Mrs Fitzpatrick.  The visit concluded with Mass and lunch in the crypt and we returned to school in Walsall, having had a most informative and enjoyable day.

On Remembrance Sunday the cathedral celebrated its annual Mass of Requiem for the War Dead. Professor David Saint was at the organ with Nigel Morris conducting the Cathedral Choir in the evocative setting of the Requiem Mass by Maurice Duruflé.

In the light of the cathedral’s recent award of £227,000 from the Government’s First World War Centenary Cathedral Repairs Fund, the Silence at the War Memorial had an added poignancy. The Memorial was dedicated on Armistice Day in 1921 to honour the memory of the 200 hundred men and boys from the cathedral parish who fell in the Great War. The Prayers included the Exhortation of the Royal British Legion and the Kohima Epitaph:

‘When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow we gave our today.’

The Dean, Canon Gerry Breen, made reference to the 200 in his homily based on the scripture readings of the day (The Feast of the Dedication) “The Fallen, by their ultimate sacrifice, have built something more than bricks and mortar as they remain the foundation of living stones on which our freedom stands.”

Canon Gerry Breen, Dean of St. Chad’s Cathedral Birmingham, said: ‘We are absolutely thrilled with this award of £227,000.00 from Her Majesty’s Government which will enable us to carry out important structural repairs to this historical cathedral’. St. Chad’s is the first Catholic cathedral to be built in the U.K. after the Reformation of the 16^th century; and was designed by Augustus Welby Pugin whose gothic revivalism is seen throughout the Houses of Parliament and in the iconic clock tower of Big Ben.

How timely the notification of the award having just hosted the Royal School of Church Music Young Voices Festival with its theme ‘We will remember them.’ The cathedral was filled with more than three hundred school children representing the kaleidoscope of faith and culture across our city. They raised their hearts and voices in thanksgiving for the Fallen who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom which defends democracy, education, and so much more. Their constant refrain, as they looked to a future of peace for all, was: ‘We shall not learn war anymore.’

Our War Memorial, dedicated on Armistice Day in 1921, is a constant reminder of the debt we owe to so many, including the two hundred men from this parish who fell in the Great War. The annual Mass of Requiem this Remembrance Sunday will include an additional prayer of thanksgiving for this award.

Canon Gerry Breen
Dean of St Chad’s Cathedral

In his Pastoral letter read in all Churches on the weekend of 27/28 September Archbishop Bernard invited anyone who was involved in serving their neighbour to attend the launch of the Caritas Archdiocese of Birmingham network at St Chad’s the following Sunday.

And what better place for this to happen than in the mother church of the Diocese in a beautiful service of prayer and Benediction where the lovely words of the Taize chant Ubi Caritas evoked even richer and deeper meaning.

Archbishop Bernard, accompanied by Bishop David, welcomed everyone joyfully and introduced Fr Michael White as the first Chairperson of this new network.

It would be nearly impossible on an occasion like this not to have a few words from Pope Francis. Although he couldn’t make it personally his words were ably rendered by Sister Gillian Murphy as she read several short sections from Evangelii Gaudium. Sister Gillian must have been delighted by the presence of so many members of religious congregations, all of whom in their daily lives are living out the words of Pope Francis.
Helen O’Brien, the Chief executive of CSAN, the national Caritas social action network placed this new network in a national context –belonging to the bigger network of Caritas Europa and even bigger one of Cartas Internationalis. She spoke of two arms of the Church’s service in this country: CSAN serving people locally and CAFOD serving abroad. Helen said that Birmingham is the fifth diocese now to establish a Diocesan Caritas and that more are considering it. She spoke clearly about those living in poverty, that CSAN is there to respond to their needs and to advocate.

Fr Michael opened by saying when he took the call from Archbishop Bernard, asking him to take this responsibility he answered yes straight away. Yes, because he sees this as a constitutive part of being a priest; that is what he is called to do. He did not talk about all the work he had done in the past. He did not mention that he and his parishioners had, just two days before, launched a new charity, Heart of Tamworth, with the Lord Mayor, the Deputy Lieutenant, the local MP and many councillors, organisations, and parishioners present. What he did say was that whenever you set out on this journey what he has discovered is just how many volunteers come forward who wish to join in. He spoke about the future, about what would be possible if people get involved. He said he had had one reservation about his yes being so immediate- would anyone join this new network? However on looking through the Cathedral at all those who had come he said that doubt was removed.

Fr David Oakley commented as he began speaking that it is a challenge to preach after hearing the phrase read earlier from the Pope:
‘For example, if in the course of the liturgical year a parish priest speaks about temperance ten times but only mentions charity or justice two or three times, an imbalance results, and precisely those virtues which ought to be most present in preaching and catechesis are overlooked.’

However he had taken Matthew 25 as the gospel and focused on what it truly means to encounter someone whether it be Christ in prayer or a person living in poverty, he quoted:
‘I think he means here, that our concern for those in need must be more than just helping them, as it were, from a distance. We have to meet those in need, face-to-face.’
He carried on:
‘The word solidarity is a little worn and at times poorly understood, but it refers to something more than a few sporadic acts of generosity. It presumes the creation of a new mind-set which thinks in terms of community and the priority of the life of all over the appropriation of goods by a few.’ (EG 188)

He left many of us thinking that as Catholics, though it is good that we do give generously of our money, the giving of ourselves in an encounter with a brother or sister in need will reveal Christ more fully to us and to them in that face to face encounter.

Afterwards in the Grimshaw room in a very relaxed atmosphere over tea and cake those present were given a preview of the new Caritas online presence. This has been prepared by Father Hudson’s Society (as part of its commitment to offer secretariat support to the network), working closely with Catholic Today. It is part of the Diocesan website which now has a Caritas tab. Following this tab led us to a map of the Catholic social action happening around the Diocese, including justice and peace groups, food banks, Life groups, SVP groups, Community projects and much more. All this information had been gathered in the previous year by a research assistant at Father Hudson’s Society. Why not look up your parish and check it is accurate – if not let us know at admin@caritas-aob.org.uk. Everyone was encouraged to ask their parishes, schools, groups, organisations to become members (application form on the website). Once this happens the online forum, which will be accessible to members will be a very valuable communication channel.

The full text of Fr David’s talk can also be found on the resources page and is definitely worth a second reading.

During a visit to St Chad’s Cathedral, Birmingham, on the weekend of 4th/5th October, Mgr Keith Newton, Ordinary of the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham, said that the Ordinariate provides an ecumenical model for the universal Church.

Mgr Newton had been invited to preach at all the weekend Masses at St Chad’s Cathedral by the Most Revd Bernard Longley, Archbishop of Birmingham. The visit also formed part of a wider Friends of the Ordinariate appeal and awareness raising campaign.

St Chad’s Cathedral, Monday 22nd September at 10.30am.
Monday 22nd September saw over 150 people gathering with Archbishop Longley to celebrate Chaplaincy in our Catholic Secondary Schools. Head Teachers, Lay Chaplains, Priest Chaplain’s, Student Chaplaincy Volunteers, governors and staff came together with staff from the Diocesan Education Service and The Kenelm Youth Trust, to celebrate Mass with the Archbishop during which he told those present that they were “transmitters of faith”. He went on to say that “at the heart of Chaplaincy lies your own commitment to Christ.” He challenged all present to take to heart the fitting words of the days Gospel to place our lamp on a lampstand for all to see so that there would be an authentic example of Christian witness in our Catholic Schools. The Archbishop then invited those involved in Chaplaincy to stand so that he could commission them for the coming year of ministry. The celebrations then continued as all present shared lunch together in the beautiful afternoon sunshine!