Page 1_Layout 1 09/03/2021 10:29 Page 1

Newyddiadur Swyddogol Esgobaeth Caerdydd Issue 291 March 2021 Official Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Cardiff

Pick up your FREE Catholic People copy today

A lovely priest Appointment of new who will be Catholic Chaplain to the missed University of Cardiff Page 2 Page 6 “TAKING STOCK” by Archbishop George The recent completion of the are justly proud. These Pugin in 1887. St. Mary’s in “Taking Stock” exercise by churches continue to give a Merthyr Tydfil was built by the Patrimony Committee of powerful message in today’s J.S.Hamsom in 1894. Further the Bishops Conference of world, so very different from the growth and development took England and was times during which they were place in the 20th century with under the chairmanship of built. The choice of architects, the building of St.Dyfrig’s Archbishop . the various architectural styles Treforest built in the Byzantine This momentous project has and sacred artefacts all convey style and opened in1920. Our included every diocese in their own history and are Lady’s Newbridge, designed by England and Wales and every chronicled in “Taking Stock”. Hepworth and opened in 1939, is illustrated is a treasure trove of the arts and described in great detail . Oldest church and crafts design. Aberdare – St Joseph “Taking Stock” has revealed an architectural treasury of the 66 The tiny church of St. Mary and Critical acclaim architectural recognition in found on the website of churches which serve our own St. Michael,Llanarth, is probably terms of their List status. A TAKING STOCK – parishes in the Archdiocese of the oldest church used for The expansion of the Catholic number of Listed churches ARCHDIOCESE OF CARDIFF. Cardiff and Herefordshire. Catholic worship since the population necessitated a have benefited enormously Another addition to the treasury These churches stand as Reformation. It was built in significant building program in from grants from Heritage which is Catholic church silent witnesses to the courage 1790.St. Thomas of Hereford, the 1960’s is well chronicled. Lottery Fund made towards architecture is a book entitled inventiveness and generosity of Weobley, built in 1835, is Many significant churches were major repairs. The Cultural “Fifty churches to see before our predecessors in the faith. similarly one of the earlies post erected, in the distinctive style Recovery Fund has recently you die” by Elena Curtin. The They chart the growth and Reformation place of Catholic of the architect Richard Price. granted each of our twenty Foreword is written by development of the Catholic worship. This was followed in The largest of these is the Listed churches over £1000 Archbishop George Stack. Church in this area over the last 1840 by the church of St. church of St. Helen,Caerphilly, each for daily maintenance. two hundred years. A number Francis Xavier in Usk, designed the smallest being that of the The fully illustrated list and See more of ourTaking Stock of them portray the missionary by the famous Thomas Blessed Sacrament,Rumney. history of each church may be churches on page 4 origins of their foundation, long Hanson.St. Mary’s, Newport The latest church built in 1998 before parishes were also opened in 1840. The by the architect Kevyn Davies of established. recently discovered exciting Port Talbot is St. Mary’s The influence of the Religious excavations beneath this Bridgend has received much Orders in their service of the church point to an even earlier critical acclaim. people in those far off days is foundation. Then came St. Cardinal Basil Hume once reflected in the architectural Illtyd’s, Dowlais, in 1847. wrote “Churches are not just gems they established. The J.J.Scoles, another famous places in which we worship Third Order Franciscans, architect, was responsible for God, but with which we worship members of the Order of St. it’s design. God.” Each of these churches Benedict and members of the The 1860’s saw a significant tell their own story of the faith of Institute of Charity have all development with churches in the people who worshipped given dedicated service to the Abergavenny in 1860,Aberdare within them and the Church in this area and in 1868, St. Peter’s Roath (also communities they served. bequeathed many historic by Hanson) followed by St. Twenty churches in the diocese Llanarth – St Mary and St Michael church buildings of which we David’s Cathedral by Pugin and have received special Page 2_Layout 1 09/03/2021 10:30 Page 1

2 CATHOLIC PEOPLE A lovely priest who will be missed

By Peter Collins Initiation there with First Confession, First He took to this vigorous exercise like ‘a duck It was with great sadness that the Holy Communion and Confirmation. to water’. In his later teenage years he Archdiocese received the news that Fr. He received his early education at St. contemplated a possible vocation to the Raymond John O’Shea died peacefully Mary’s Primary School in Canton, at St. diocesan priesthood and in September 1956 at the University Hospital of Wales on Joseph’s Convent School in Cathays and he began his formation at St. Patrick’s Monday 8th February. Fr.Ray had been at the De La Salle School. Following the Seminary in Carlow. suffering from a combination of chronic establishment of the National Health He was accepted as a candidate by the illnesses over many years but Service, Fr. Ray’s Father decided to move Archdiocese of Cardiff and ordained to the deteriorated finaly as a result of the family back to Ireland in October 1948, priesthood on the 9th June 1962. Between contracting Covis-19. settling in Galway City where the family 1962 and 1967 he served as an Assistant We entrust him to God’s great mercy had their roots. Fr. Ray continued his Priest in St.Joseph’s Port Talbot, St. Francis and we extend the assurance of our education at the Jesuit College in Galway Xavier Hereford, St. Joseph’s Penarth and St. prayers to Clare, his one surviving Sister, for one year before being set board at the Brigid’s Cardiff. In 1967 he received his first and the wider family which include famous Blackrock College in Dublin. He appointment as Parish Priest to St. Mary’s nineteen nephews and nieces. Fr. Ray was later completed his schooling back in Abertillery. In 1971 he was transferred to St. born in Ely, Cardiff, on the 21st May 1937. Galway with the Patrician Brothers. Cuthbert’s Cardiif where he remained for His parents were both Irish, his Father Following his migration to Galway, the over six years, during which time he served being a Medical Practitioner in Ely, and young Raymond was encourage to take as a Chaplain to Cardiff Prison. In 1978 he FrRay was the only son amongst four up swimming in the sea as a means of moved on to become Parish Priest to St. daughters. He was baptised in the Parish strengthening his health following a Mary’s Dinas Powys, serving very happily as excellent treatment at the best possible of St. Clare’s and completed his Christian sequence of debilitating chest infections. Chaplain to Llandough Hospital. In 1986 he hospital facility. Fr. Ray was famous for being was asked to become Parish Priest to St. a ‘gadgets’ man, always wanting the next Mary’s Bridgend, being appointed with the ‘new thing’. Let Biblical Inspiration Fire Your Imagination! instruction to build a new Church. Having He was also renowned for being When I was in my late-teens I drove an prepared the groundwork, Fr. Ray was somewhat untidy. As I like a well-regulated old car with a faulty petrol gauge. On 3 minute reading and meditation with disappointed not to bring the project to and orderly presbytery, I spent a great deal more than one occasion I ran out of fuel Teresa O’Driscoll completion. of time and effort attempting to restrict the quite late at night and after hunting Email: [email protected] In 1989 he moved once again to become ever present danger of a chaotic overflow down a phone box rang my dad for “May the Parish Priest to St.Joseph’s Aberdare and from his suite of rooms. I eventually gave up help. I knew I had dragged him out of a God of all then in 1994 he was appointed to the Parish the battle in the kitchen simply because I warm bed but he never once scolded hope fill you of Christ the King in Cardiff. In 2002 he acknowledged him to be a far better cook me. Instead, he would simply say, will joy and retired through ill health and took up than myself. As stated earlier, at the age of “Where are you?” After that he would peace...” residence at the Cathedral where he 75 Fr.Ray moved to Whitchurch but ask me to get back in the car and lock Romans remained until 2012. Upon the celebration of continued to offer holiday supply for priests the door – assuring me he would be 15:13 his Golden Jubilee he moved from the across the Archdiocese. there soon. My father was a lovely man Cathedral to a residence in Whitchurch He was energetic in his younger days, a whom I know took his lead from our which was provided by the Archdiocese. keen walker in the company of a succession Heavenly Father. No matter how much I was first introduced to Fr.Ray at the end of Labradors, though he was not beyond we might try His patience He never recruiting parishioners to conduct the daily gives up on us, and His love is eternal. of my fifth year of seminary formation in walks. Among his more eccentric talents was Lent is the perfect time to dwell on that and be glad. Try the short meditation below to 1983 when I was appointed to Dinas Powys help you do that. for a two month pastoral placement as a his membership of the Magic Circle. He 1. Read Romans 15:13 deacon. I was then reunited with him in loved entertaining young and old with ‘tricks’! 2. Sit up straight and close your eyes. Breathe in deeply through the nose. Hold a few January 1986, having served for eighteen He gave generous service as a hospital seconds. Breathe out through the mouth and as you do so feel the whole of your body months as at the Cathedral following Chaplain, especially at Llandough. He was relax. my ordination to the priesthood. I was told by particularly devoted to youth ministry, which 3. Now meditate for a few moments on the ways that God has helped you in your life. Archbishop Ward that Fr.Ray had asked for bore great fruit in Dinas Powys and Bridgend. 4. Now say this prayer – or one of your own – ‘Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the me to join him following his appointment as As a result of his hospital chaplaincy, Fr.Ray many times You have helped me through a difficult situation. Please remind me of that Parish Priest to Bridgend. I remained with was commissioned as a Captain (later when I next feel lost. I ask this in the name of Your Son Jesus Christ. Amen.’ him for two years until January 1988 when I promoted to Major) within the Territorial Army 5. When you are ready breathe in and out deeply as before. Then open your eyes and left for Spain to undertake further study in whilst he was Parish Priest in Bridgend. have a big stretch. advance of my appointment as Vice Rector He served for fourteen years within the I hope that the above will help you in testing times as a reminder that at the Royal English College, Valladolid. In Medical Corps (Wales Field Hospital) and your Heavenly Father is always there for you. 1994 I accompanied Fr.Ray on a most received the Territorial Decoration. He joined God bless enjoyable holiday to the West of Ireland to the Order of St.John of Jerusalem, becoming Teresa visit his family in Galway and Limerick. In a Chaplain to St.John’s Ambulance Cadets For more on the above topic please see Teresa’s blog: 2002 and an Honorary Chaplain to the Queen http://teresaodriscoll.blogspot.co.uk/ Fr. Ray asked to retire from full-time parish Alexandra Royal Army Corps of Nurses. He Teresa O’Driscoll is the author of 9 Days to Heaven, How to make ministry as a result of a worsening heart also joined the Order of St.Lazarus of everlasting meaning of your life condition. I was already Cathedral Dean by Jerusalem, serving for a while as Chaplain this point and Fr.Ray requested to take up General. He was also appointed to the Your Catholic People… residence with me at Cathedral House. He Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of remained with me for the next ten years and Jerusalem, becoming an Ecclesiastical Editorial Dr James Campbell-Editor. Archbishop’s House, 43 Cathedral Road, Cardiff, CF11 9HD despite his health concerns contributed Knight Commander. Fr.Ray was a sensitive Tel: (029) 2022 0411 Fax: (029) 2037 9036 Email: [email protected] and Articles to be received by the 20th greatly to the life and ministry of the man and characterised by his many and of the month for inclusion in the following month. Cathedral. During this time, Fr. Ray grasped varied ‘enthusiasms’. Whilst we entrust him During the present pandemic the Editor is self isolating but can be contacted through his mobile 07872 580260 to God’s great mercy we give thanks for his and personal email address [email protected] many opportunities to serve as a Chaplain Advertising Tel: 0151 709 7567 aboard cruise ships. He took to this ministry priestly ministry in our midst. May he rest in Designed & Produced Mersey Mirror, Suite 4, Pacific Chambers, 11-13 Victoria Street, Liverpool L2 5QQ. Tel: 0151 like ‘a duck to water’. However, it was during peace. Amen. 709 7567 Email: [email protected] a Cunard World Cruise that he suffered a We have also lost two other priests in Submission of photographs Please note photographs submitted for publication must be in jpeg or pdf format. major heart attack. Providentially it happened Those in Word format cannot be accepted the past week Canon Patrick Daly and while the ship was harboured in Hong Kong. Email: Please send your copy and pictures for publication to both email addresses [email protected] and Fr James McKnight. He underwent what proved to be a most [email protected] . May they Rest in Peace. Articles to be received by the 20th of the month for inclusion in the following month. successful triple-by-pass operation, receiving Page 3_Layout 1 09/03/2021 10:30 Page 1

CATHOLIC PEOPLE 3 Avoid austerity – in the Church and society Editorial The following article by Dr New programme to Peter Selby, former Bishop of help spread the Gospel Worcester, focusses on life after the Covid-19 pandemic. Please look at the new Archdiocesan Although written from the programme on page 6. perspective of the Church of You can follow it on Zoom as it is open to all England, it has implications far Dr Peter parishioners and clergy across the beyond. Archdiocese. Selby - The Diocesan Evangelisation Commission has life after prepared an excellent programme, with the “Enormous amount of pent-up approval of Archbishop George which cover a financial energy are waiting to be Covid-19 history of the early church, important released, like a coiled spring” – messages from recent papal papers and will Andy Haldane, chief economist of teach other skills to help spread the gospel. the Bank of England, expressing Also on the same page are dates of Scripture the belief that, as infection rated decisions being made about their who have not been able to spend Study sessions for this year, also delivered decline and vaccinations are rolled own future bear the marks of a our money in theatres and via Zoom and YouTube. out, there is light, too, at the end fatalism about the loss of income, restaurants or on holidays, need to The contact for those wishing to participate of the economic tunnel. and a rush to find economies: an hear. We need, surely, to be faced is Madeleine Walters, whose email address is The light is certainly not there for ecclesiastical version of the austerity with a challenge to express our at the end of both articles. everyone. The Financial Conduct response that has done damage gratitude for the care that we have Authority forecasts that one in three during the past decade. received and our commitment to A Trojan Horse adults is likely to cut back on Quite rightly, churches and their justice. If there is a “coiled spring” of essentials; one in ten will use a food- leaders will seek to draw attention to pent-up economic demand and See the blunt article below by Father Sebastian. bank; one quarter will be financially the needs of the poorest. In eagerness to spend again, churches allocating their own resources, they should surely be asking their We should all strongly resist these proposed vulnerable, and one eighth will face changes which conflict with the rights our increased debts – all increases of will want to mitigate the harsh members now to look hard at their realities facing the poorest dioceses, priorities before they fall in with the parents to have a strong say in their about 15 per cent on pre-pandemic children’s education. levels. At the same time, the charity the poorest congregations, and those encouragement to spend their sector has been hit by a tidal wave of of their ministers suffering the unlooked-for savings. demand and a serious reduction in greatest hardships. income. Political challenge Humanity The Curriculum Dedication and compassion If the economically vulnerable in the To describe that very appropriate community have rightly commanded and Assessment Churches, like charities, have been response as the churches’ inhabiting out attention during 2020, the need impressive in their response to those their comfort zone may seem now is to address those who have (Wales) Bill is a hurt by the lockdown, showing churlish. But, as Dietrich Bonhoeffer been financially cushioned. Why go dedication and compassion in full observed, Christians have generally along with the default response of measure in the service of their found it easier to approach humanity adjusting to the financial hit as Trojan horse in its weakness than in its strength, though there were no remedy in our communities. An early end to the The Welsh Labour Party believes that it will need for their services looks very and that is as true in the world of own hands, and in our own bank economics as in any other. accounts? always win the majority of votes and keep it in unlikely: if the Government decided power in the Senedd. The flaw in this political to focus on reducing the fiscal deficit, Only when church members start Nor is this a matter just for the with themselves do they have Churches. The substantial proportion argument can be seen all across Europe, we can be sure that the burden on where popularist parties are gathering the poorest will increase. authority to raise these issues of society needs to be asked to So, responding to the quarter who address the decimation of the charity momentum among hard working people who It is not surprising, then, that there have no confidence in the old political parties. is anxiety, as the Archbishop of are financially vulnerable, and to sector before the rush to spend what struggling diocese and it has saved. Only when church Popularist parties are increasingly holding Canterbury and York wrote in The the balance of political power. Were this to Spectator recently, “over the sharp congregations, is, in a sense, easier members start with themselves do than knowing what to say to the they have authority to raise these happen in Wales we might see a very different fall in collection-plate donations with and divisive ideological policy being imposed fewer people currently attending three quarters whose finances have issues; for there is a political not deteriorated during this time. challenge here as well. We are going by Welsh Ministers upon our parents and church”. children in our schools. The cordial letter I The impression at present is of There is another, bolder message, to see priority given to getting people which those of us whose jobs or to spend – “Eat out to help out” was, received this week from the Welsh Education churches’ making a compassionate Secretary is written from the standpoint that response to the vulnerable, while the pensions have remained secure, and literally, a foretaste of this – when, at the same time, sharp economies are Welsh Labour will always be in power, and so made in public services and welfare. therefore, no one has anything to worry about, Those who four decades ago as we are the "good guys". History always A call to service - Archbishop produced Faith in the City rightly proves those arrogant on power to be wrong.. It understood that Churches could is rarely the political classes who suffer in On St David’s Day in a socially distanced ceremony His Grace the address society only if they had these situations, but rather the ordinary working presented the thirteen recipients of the addressed issues of justice in their and middle classes, who are either taken for granted as voting fodder, or raided to fill gaps Archdiocesan medal for loyal service to the Church and St Alban's own life. If the light at the end of the due to financial mismanagement. The right of Parish. In his address to the awardees, the Archbishop recalled tunnel is to reveal something better than a wilderness of private affluence parents to educate their children, to protect Christ's words “Put out into the deep”. and public squalor, we must their own flesh and blood from those who He said “You are those who have had a glimpse of the vision and accompany compassion for the would do them physical or moral harm is not a shared in that call to service that others may catch sight of the the vulnerable with a robust challenge to concession of Government, but has always Mystery that we encounter in the Mass and on our communities. the relatively secure. Lent might be been held to be a natural right of parents. The Thank you for what you have done, and will do. God bless you.” no bad time to encourage that level Curriculum and Assessment (Wales) Bill is a of self-examination and challenge. Trojan horse. Fr Sebastian Jones Pages 4-5_Layout 1 09/03/2021 10:32 Page 1

4 CATHOLIC PEOPLE Some more of our wonderful

churches Cardiff – Metropolitan Cathedral Church of St David Blaenavon – Sacred Heart and St Felix

Hereford – Abbey Church of St Michael and All Angels Abergavenny – Our Lady and St Michael (Belmont Abbey) Usk – St David Lewis and St Francis Xavier

St David... our Saint - A reflection by Archbishop George

In March the church has an interview what she thought presence of the divine flaming celrbrated St David’s Day, had made him recite the poem, through it. It seems appropriate, which is also kept as a Gillian Clarke replied: “I think therefore, that this poem with St national day in Wales. two things set the poem going David in its title should end on He probably flourished in the in his mind. One was the one of those moments of sixth century, or possibly earlier, daffodils in the room and in the transfiguration: and while many sites and grass outside. The other was We observe foundations have associations that I was reading poetry. The The flowers’ silence. A thrush with him, it is difficult to know rhythm of the poems, and the sings much for certain about the sight of daffodils reminded him And the daffodils are aflame. incidents of his life. His reputed that he had loved poetry once, last words, however, and the moment set him free Think about this poem: supposedly given in a sermon from dumbness. Miracle on St David’s Day on the day before he died, have That sense of the rhythm and Gillian Clarke an authentic ring and have music of poetry unlocking and They flash upon that inward eye proved popular: ‘Be joyful, and releasing something inside us which is the bliss of solitude. keep your faith and your creed, seems an essential insight, and The Daffodils, William and do the little things that you one of the reasons why it is Wordsworth have seen me do and heard good to fold poetry into our An afternoon yellow and open- not listening, not feeling. In her The nurses are frozen, alert; the about. I will walk the path that prayer life. What she says of mouthed with daffodils. The neat clothes the woman is patients seem to listen. He is our fathers have trod before us. this man, suddenly released sun treads the path among absent. hoarse but word-perfect. For the National Saint of into speech, might hold true for cedars and enormous oaks. It A big, mild man is tenderly led Outside the daffodils are still as Wales I have chosen a poem many of us: might be a country house, to his chair. He has never wax, a thousand, ten thousand, by the National poet of wales, Since the dumbness of misery guests strolling, the rumps of spoken. His labourer’s hands their syllables unspoken, their Gillian Clarke. This beautiful fell gardeners between nursery on his knees, he rocks gently creams and yellows still. poem, ‘Miracle on St David’s He has remembered there was shrubs. to the rhythms of the poems. I Forty years ago, in a Valleys Day’, tells the true story of how a music I am reading poetry to the read to their presences, school, the class recited poetry she was giving a poetry reading Of speech and that once he insane. absences, to the big, dumb by rote. Since the dumbness of in a mental hospital on St had something to say. An old woman, interrupting, labouring man as he rocks. misery fell he has remembered David’s Day. Both the ward and The early Celtic saints, offers as many buckets of coal He is suddenly standing, there was a music of speech the gardens outside were full of among whom David is as I need. silently, huge and mild, but I and that once he had daffodils, and suddenly a man numbered, had a reputation for A beautiful chestnut-haired boy feel afraid. Like slow movement something to say. who had been silent his whole a kind of ‘nature mysticism’ for listens entirely absorbed. A of spring water or the first bird When he’s done, before the time in hospital stood up and responding to the beauty of the schizophrenic on a good day, of the year in the breaking applause, we observe the recited Wordsworth’s ‘Daffodils’ world around them and they tell me later. In a cage of darkness, the labourer’s voice flowers’ silence. A thrush sings poem from memory. Asked in sensing, sometimes, the first March sun a woman sits recites ‘The Daffodils’. and the daffodils are flame. Pages 4-5_Layout 1 09/03/2021 10:33 Page 2

CATHOLIC PEOPLE 5 Pope to Iraq: ‘I come as pilgrim of peace, seeking fraternity, reconciliation’ Pope Francis sends a video message wounds,” Pope Francis said. close to them and to the martyred to the people of Iraq, to share a Recent decades marked by war, Middle East” and encourages them to message of peace, fraternity and insecurity and persecution have go forward. comfort, as he prepares for his dwindled the numbers of the once “Let us not allow the terrible suffering Apostolic Visit which begins on vibrant Christian communities in Iraq you have experienced, which grieves me Friday. which numbered between 1 and 1.4 so much, to prevail,” Pope Francis urged. million in 2003 but presently, are an “Let us not give up in the face of the By Fr. Benedict Mayaki, SJ estimated 300,000 to 400,000 people. spread of evil.” “And I come among you as a pilgrim of Further encouraging Iraqis to refer to As final preparations kick into high gear peace, to repeat: ‘you are all brothers their ancient sources of wisdom, the for Pope Francis’ scheduled Apostolic and sisters’,” continued the Pope. Pope reminded them of the example of Journey to Iraq from 5 – 8 March, the “Yes, I come as a pilgrim of peace in Abraham who, though he left everything, Holy Father issued a message on search of fraternity, animated by the never lost hope and went on to give Thursday to Iraqis ahead of his arrival, desire to pray together and to walk birth to descendants as numerous as expressing his joy and anticipation of together, also with brothers and sisters the stars in heaven. finally being physically present with of other religious traditions, under the “Dear brothers and sisters, let us look to them. sign of our Father Abraham, who unites the stars. There is our promise,” the “Dear brothers and sisters in Iraq, peace Muslims, Jews and Christians in one Pope enjoined all. be upon you!” Pope Francis said. “In a family.” few days, I will finally be among you. I Hope in spite of suffering long to meet you, to see your faces and Comfort to a church in trying to visit your land, the ancient and moments The Pope continued to express his extraordinary cradle of civilization.” closeness and his message of hope to Pope Francis’ visit to the Middle Eastern Pope Francis, turning his thoughts to the the many others who have suffered over nation comes as the realization of a many Christians who have borne the years but have not fallen. These, dream of his predecessor, Pope St. John witness to their faith in Jesus in the noted the Pope, include Christians, Paul II, who had planned to travel to Iraq midst of difficult trials, expressed his Muslims and more particularly, the 19 pandemic." at the end of 1999 but could not make gratitude to them and offered some Yazidis who “have suffered so much.” Concluding his message, the Holy the journey. The Pope's four-day journey fatherly words of comfort. “I come to your blessed and wounded Father reminded brothers and sisters of will include visits to several cities, as well “I look forward to seeing you,” the Pope land as a pilgrim of hope,” said the every religious tradition that it up to us to as meetings with Christian communities said. “I am honored to meet a martyred Pope. “From you, in Nineveh, resounded continue the journey that Abraham and religious leaders. Church. Thank you for your witness.” the prophecy of Jonah, who prevented began thousands of years ago: to walk The Pope went on to acknowledge “the destruction and brought a new hope, together, in the same spirit, along the Penitent pilgrim of peace and images of the destroyed houses and the hope of God.” paths of peace. reconciliation desecrated churches” that many Iraqi Pope Francis enjoined everyone to be Pope Francis concluded his message Christian communities still bear in mind. infected by this hope, “which invoking God’s blessings upon all and “I come as a pilgrim, as a penitent He prayed that the many martyrs they encourages us to rebuild and begin asking everyone to accompany him in pilgrim to implore forgiveness and have known may “help us to persevere again” and to help each other to prayer. reconciliation from the Lord after years of in the humble strength of love” and strengthen our fraternity and to build “I ask all of you to do the same as war and terrorism, to ask God for the expressed to them “the affectionate together a future of peace, especially in Abraham,” said the Pope. “Walk in hope consolation of hearts and the healing of caress of the whole Church, which is these trying times of the ongoing Covid- and never stop looking at the stars.” IRAQ APPEAL 2021 Your love is working a miracle in Iraq. When Daesh (ISIS) extremists committed genocide, there were fears it could spell the end of almost 2,000 years of continuous Christian presence in Iraq. But – thanks to you – a miracle of love has taken place. Not only have you helped the faithful survive one of the darkest periods of persecution, but – with your support – they are back home building anew out of the ashes of destruction. Pope Francis is due to visit Iraq from 5th – 8th March 2021. “I think constantly of Iraq,” the Pope has said. “We must ensure that the Christian presence in these lands continues to be... a sign of peace, progress, development and reconciliation between individuals and peoples.” When plans were announced for a Papal trip in March 2021, the Pope will be meeting the very people whose presence in the Cradle of Christianity has been sustained by your help. Although COVID-19 restrictions will limit how many he will meet, he will be celebrating a Mass with 10,000 faithful in a stadium in northern Iraq. desecrated churches need to be restored for worship. Thank you so much for what you have done – but there is still so much to do. At a time of global pandemic, Iraq has been especially badly hit. But, with Little children cannot start their education unless their kindergarten is rebuilt your help, ACN is giving urgent COVID medical aid. and Dominican Sisters long to return to their burnt-out convent. In addition, priests cannot fulfil their ministry unless homes are repaired and so many Read more here: https://acnuk.org Page 6_Layout 1 09/03/2021 10:30 Page 1

6 CATHOLIC PEOPLE Appointment of new Catholic Chaplain to the University of Cardiff It is announced by Archbishop the chaplaincy forward in these new and MSc Advanced Manufacturing Bristol and Senior Manufacturing George Stack that Fr. Nicholas challenging circumstances of university Engineering (Portsmouth) 2009-2012. Engineer at Eaton Aerospace Hydraulics Williams has been appointed Catholic life. BA (Hons) fundamental Theology Division, Portsmouth. Chaplain at the University of Cardiff Fr. Sebastian Jones writes: I warmly (Birmingham and Oscott) 2015-2018. He was ordained a Deacon in 2012 in succession to Fr. Sebastian Jones. welcome the appointment of Fr. STB (KU Leuven) 2015 -2018). He was and Priest in 2018. Since ordination, he The appointment will take effect at Nicholas Williams as Catholic Chaplain Graduate Materials Technician at has served at St.Mary and the Angels the beginning of the new academic to the University of Cardiff. He will bring Architen Landrell 203-2004, Chepstow and Holy Family parish, Cardiff. year in September 2021. the same dedication and enthusiasm to Engineer at Baldor UK 2004-2006, Fr. Sebastian was appointed chaplain the chaplaincy as he displayed when he by Archbishop on the Feast re-founded the CathSoc at the University of the Immaculate Conception of Our of Portsmouth. I give thanks to God for Lady, 8 December 2009. He was the the years of ministry at Cardiff University. first Catholic chaplain in the role of Co- They have been a precious time to me. I ordinating Chaplain at Cardiff University. thank all the outstanding staff and A member of the Ethics Committee of students who have supported and the University, he also worked closely contributed to the life and witness of the with the University’s Student Support chaplaincy during that time. I particularly Services. wish to record my thanks to Mr. Ben Lewis who is responsible for the Student Hall of Residence provision of chaplaincy and the University and for his tireless work for Fr. Sebastian is a Fellow of the University the welfare of students. of Cardiff Centre for Law and Religion. Fr. Nicholas Williams writes: I am He has lectured in the Codes of Canon grateful to the Archbishop for appointing Law for the Western and Eastern me Catholic Chaplain at the University of Churches as part of the LLM degree Cardiff, my home city. I feel privileged to course since 2010. He has overseen the be entrusted with the sacred duty of extension of the work of the Catholic caring and accompanying the students Chaplaincy. In addition to the current in their journey of Christian faith and premises at 62 Park Place he was discipleship and in providing for their responsible for the establishment of sacramental lives. My experience of Newman Hall, a student Hall of chaplaincy comes from my time at the Residence situated in the newly University of Portsmouth when the re- renovated buildings which provided the establishment of the CathSoc was in erstwhile nursery at Nazareth House. response to the critical need for In August 2019 Archbishop Stack students not only to gain their academic invited the Oratorian Community in credentials, but also emerge as well Formation to accept the pastoral care of formed young people, knowledgeable St. Alban’s Parish, Splott. Fr. Sebastian about their faith and it’s practice. I thank was appointed the Parish Priest. Fr. Sebastian for the legacy he has handed on to me through his work as From left to right: Fr Sebastian, retiring University chaplain, Archbishop George and Chaplain’s dedication chaplain. I look forward to building on the new University chaplain Fr Nicholas the foundations which he has laid. Generations of students have good reason to be grateful for the dedication Biographical Note: and ministry of Fr. Sebastian as their chaplain over the last thirteen years. Fr. Fr. Nicholas Williams holds a B.Eng THE YEAR OF THE Nicholas Williams will be able to build (Hons) in Aerospace Manufacturing on the legacy he has inherited and take Engineering (Bristol UWE) 1997 – 2022. GOD WHO SPEAKS Scripture Study sessions have once again been scheduled for this year. NEW ARCHDIOCESAN PROGRAMME They will be delivered via Zoom and YouTube on the dates set out below. They will run on certain Saturdays from 11am to 12.30pm. The Diocesan Evangelisation Commission is pleased to announce its new April 24th, 2021: Encountering Jesus as the Messiah in Matthew's Gospel programme: Fr. Tim McGrath Spread the Gospel: Developing a Missionary Parish. May 29th, 2021: Celebrating, Living and Sharing 'The God Who Speaks' The Commission has spent the year of lockdown creating the programme and then Deacon Rob Coyne piloting, reviewing, and amending it. The Programme has been approved by His June 12th, 2021: The Vision of St. John's Gospel Grace, Archbishop George Stack. It is a seven-week programme, running for one Fr. Bernard Sixtus and half hours via Zoom on one evening a week. The dates will be Wednesday, April July 10th, 2021: A Biblical Journey through the Mass 21st and 28th, May 5th, May 12th and May 19th, June 9th and June 16th, 2021. Revd. Doctor Gareth Leyshon The Programme is open to all parishioners and clergy across the Archdiocese. September 11th, 2021: A Brief Look at St. Paul's Life and Teachings The new Programme will remind participants of the Great Commission and the basic Canon Matthew Jones Gospel message. It will cover a rudimentary history of the early church and will October 9th, 2021: The Gospel of St. Mark consider important messages from recent papal papers, how to give witness Deacon Maurice Scanlon testimonies, evangelise non-church going Catholics with practical approaches and November 6th, 2021: The Gospel of St. Luke tools for building a parish team to evangelise. Dr. Philip Manghan The Genesis Mission will be an important follow-on activity offered to participants, December 4th, 2021: The Scriptures in Advent providing the necessary skills for successful encounters. Kate Duffin For more information and to register for the Programme, please email For more information and to register for the talks so that you will receive the Madeleine Walters at [email protected] Zoom link, please email Madeleine Walters at [email protected] Page 7_Layout 1 09/03/2021 10:31 Page 1

CATHOLIC PEOPLE 7 Caritas Calling! – March / April 2021 • Continued from Page 8 Message for the 57th World Day of received from the apostles, has been Aspirations; Promote Citizen Participation In Prayer for Vocations 2020 | Francis faithfully guarded by their successors. All Public Life (The request was to legislate at 6. The Cycle of Prayer: - Cycle of Prayer (vatican.va) Christ's faithful are called to hand it on from the earliest opportunity to allow 16 year | Lent (liturgyoffice.org.uk) Human Work - especially on St Joseph generation to generation, by professing the olds to vote in forthcoming elections); During Lent: - we are asked to pray for the Worker (1 May) faith, by living it in fraternal sharing, and by Provide A Home For All; Keep A Welcome these intentions: The commemoration of St Joseph the celebrating it in liturgy and prayer. For Refugees In Our Communities; Ensure Candidates for the Sacraments - Worker on 1 May was instituted by Pius XII Catechism 3 Dignity In Social Care. A second Citizens especially on the Sundays of Lent - in 1955. It proposes the example and Cymru Governance of Wales Accountability Candidates for the Sacraments intercession of Joseph as worker and 7. Senedd and Police and Crime Assembly, addressing the same priorities, The people of God, as represented by provider. Commissioner Elections on 6 May 2021 took place on 4 February 2019 with the the local Church, should understand and St Antony’s Centre for Church and - Register to vote new First Minister. show by their concern that the initiation of Industry - St Antony's Centre for Church The Senedd Cymru/Welsh Parliament Plans are now underway for a possible adults is the responsibility of all the and Industry - CSAN Elections will take place on Thursday 6th Accountability Assembly with Party Leaders baptised. St Antony’s Centre for Church and May. The Police and Crime Commissioners in late April. This is being planned in a During Lent, the period of purification Industry seeks to promote better Elections, postponed from last year different way from the process in 2016, and enlightenment, the faithful should take understanding and knowledge of Christian because of the pandemic, will also take given the current restrictions of lockdown, care to participate in the rites of the social thinking in relation to industrial and place. These will be for England and and may result in only three priorities being scrutinies and presentations and give the economic issues. The Centre works with a Wales. raised with Party Leaders. The pandemic elect the example of their own renewal in wide range of community groups, Senedd Election 2021 Vote on 6 May has brought to the fore a number of key the spirit of penance, faith, and charity. At organisations, churches and individuals to 2021 - If you're over 16 and call Wales areas to be worked on, highlighted by the Easter Vigil, they should attach great develop common objectives and to benefit home, use your voice on 6 May 2021 by members, including food poverty and importance to renewing their own the wider community through specific voting in the Senedd Election. Not issues on mental health. baptismal promises. RCIA 9 projects. [More through the link] registered yet? You’ll need to register to We are planning a Citizens Cymru Wales Women’s World Day of Prayer - Friday 5 Young Christian Workers (YCW) - Young vote before 19 April 2021. Vote 16 - Your Delegates Assembly from 16:00 -17:30 on March [1st Friday in March] - Women's Christian Workers (YCW) - CSAN voice matters. If you're 16 or 17 years old in Tuesday 23 March. This meeting will World day of Prayer The Young Christian Workers (YCW) is a May 2021, you can vote for the first time in decide together on the priorities agreed by Women's World Day of Prayer is a Movement run for, by and amongst young the Senedd Election. members across Wales. These will then be worldwide movement of Christian women people. It is a Movement that works for a presented to the Leaders of the main who come together to observe a common world where young people can make a 8. Recalling issues highlighted by the parties in the Senedd at the Accountability day of prayer held on the first Friday in difference, where they can “Be the Catholic Bishops in Wales for the Assembly and to seek their commitment to March each year, and who, in many Difference”. It seeks to bring about the Senedd Elections in 2016 work with us on these priorities. The date countries, have a continuing relationship in transformation needed in order for all A Letter from the Bishops of Wales: and time of this Assembly is still tbc but is prayer and service. Through Women's young people to live a life of dignity, worthy National Assembly Elections 2016 - planned for a week day evening in the World Day of Prayer women are of the Creator. Archdiocese of Cardiff (rcadc.org) week of 25 April. We are looking for parish encouraged to become aware of their As a movement of young people, the The Bishops of Cardiff, Menevia and delegates to attend the Delegates talents and use them in the service of the YCW recognises that young people are the Wrexham highlighted these issues for Assembly to discuss and ratify priorities wider community. experts of their own reality and are often reflection in 2016: and to identify delegates for the Survivors of Sexual Abuse - Friday 26 the best placed people to be the means of Respecting life: Where do the Accountability Assembly. As institutions are March [Friday 5th week of Lent] - Survivors transformation in their own lives and their candidates stand on life issues? Education the members of Citizens Cymru, Parish of Sexual Abuse lives of their peers. [More through the link] for the good of all: How do the candidates delegates need to get formal agreement The Catholic Safeguarding Advisory The Right Use of the Media - especially evaluate Catholic Schools? Building with their parish priest to attend.. Service (CSAS) is responsible for driving on World Communications Day (7th Communities: Do your candidates support Here is a summary of the proposed and supporting improvements in practice. Sunday of Easter a living wage and a commitment to the schedule for the campaign: Its primary role is one of co-ordination, Dicastery For Communication Dicasteries dignity of human work? How will your • March/April: Voter registration actions – advice and support in respect of the wider Dicastery for Communication Profile candidates promote the dignity and including with schools and colleges job of safeguarding children, young people (vatican.va)On 27 June 2015 Pope protection of the well-being of refugees • March 23rd: Delegates Assembly from and vulnerable adults. csas.uk.net Francis established the Secretariat for and migrants? In their Conclusion they 16:00 - 17:30 to agree issues and asks Penitents and Wanderers - Penitents and Communication in his Apostolic Letter wrote ‘We encourage and commit our • Late March: Begin meeting with Wanderers issued Motu Proprio on the current context Catholic people to work for the Common candidates and party leaders The twin themes of Lent are baptism and of communications. The new Dicastery of Good. Each of us has a responsibility to be • Early April: Rehearsal of Accountability penance. Lent is a time of reflection and the Roman Curia has the task of the overall involved in the democratic process and Assembly preparation for Easter. Many parishes offer restructuring, reorganization and become active citizens. Hence the • Late April: Accountability Assembly opportunities for the celebration of the consolidation of "all of the realities which, in importance of our votes. Voting is a duty • 6 May: Elections – actions to encourage Sacrament of Penance in the Lenten various ways up to the present have dealt and privilege which springs from our turnout season. In recent years some parishes with communications" in order to "respond membership of a democratic society. • May/June: Post-election meetings with have explored using the Lenten period as a ever better to the needs of the mission of Before voting, ask yourself the following MSs, party leaders and Police and Crime time to assist those returning to the Church the Church". In this light the 's question: How, in the light of the Gospel, Commissioners. after a period of not being active in the life communications system is being re- can my vote best serve the Common In his encyclical, Fratelli tutti, Pope of the Church. This reflects the ancient evaluated. Good?’ Francis calls us to rediscover our vocation practice of the Order of Penitents which The Church - especially on Pentecost as citizens by building strong relationships reached its end on the morning of Holy Sunday - The Church 9. Planning for, and Organising, a with our neighbours and taking bold action Thursday. When the work which the Father gave Citizens Cymru Wales Elections for the common good. Citizens UK, and its - Cycle of Prayer | Easter the Son to do on earth was accomplished, Accountability Assembly Chapter in Wales, Citizens Cymru, provide (liturgyoffice.org.uk) the Holy Spirit was sent on the day of Archbishop Stack, accompanied by individuals, parishes, schools and charities During Easter: - we are asked to pray for Pentecost in order that he might continually members of the Archdiocese of Cardiff, with an effective and invigorating way to these intentions: sanctify the Church." Then "the Church was attended the first ever Citizens Cymru answer this call, through the practice of New Members of the Church - New openly displayed to the crowds and the Governance of Wales Accountability community organising. For information on Members of the Church spread of the Gospel among the nations, Assembly on 17 March 2016. They joined how your parish or school may learn the This is a time for the community and the through preaching, was begun." As the with over 600 members and leaders of community organisingprocesses and neophytes together to grow in deepening "convocation" of all men for salvation, the Churches, Faith Communities and other participate in Citizen Cymru Wales events, their grasp of the paschal mystery and in Church in her very nature is missionary, Civil Society organisations, representing 36 email Jim Barnaville at [email protected] making it part of their lives through sent by Christ to all the nations to make of the 40 constituencies in Wales. The four 10. Caritas development in the meditation on the Gospel, sharing in the disciples of them. Catechism 767 Party Leaders agreed to working with Archdiocese of Cardiff eucharist, and in doing works of charity. Those who with God's help have Citizens Cymru during the following years For details on how to participate in the RCIA 234 welcomed Christ's call and freely and to attend the Accountability Assembly development of the Caritas service in your Vocations - especially on the World Day responded to it are urged on by love of in 2021. They responded to these priorities: parish or school, please contact: Jim of Prayer for Vocations (4th Sunday of Christ to proclaim the Good News Make Wales A Living Wage Economy; Barnaville, Coordinator, Caritas Archdiocese Easter) everywhere in the world. This treasure, Create Opportunities That Match Our Kids’ of Cardiff. Email: [email protected] Page 8_Layout 1 09/03/2021 10:31 Page 1

8 CATHOLIC PEOPLE Canons meet on St David’s Day

Dydd Dewi Sant saw canons of the Archdiocese meet at St David's Metropolitan Cathedral for a celebratory Mass on our national day.

Left to right: Canon Barry English Joseph Boardman Canon Canon Peter Collins Canon David Hayman with Archbishop George centre.

Caritas Calling! – March / April 2021

A Monthly Bulletin for our local Conference of England and Wales has describe the path of spiritual growth. r/tJcvcOuuqzsvEtMBwz2hxBzhhvwy0hcg parishes, charities and Catholic published a list of other resources for How do we begin to keep that two- yoEb Agencies Lent. For more ideas and practical fold commandment of love? We begin 1. Caritas Social Action Network – CSAN guidance on social action, see the by listening - to God and to each other. 4. The God Who Speaks - Timeline - Resources for Lent: 17 February – 1 Getting Involved menu Caritas Social We grow in love as we begin to listen. In March and April 2021: April 2021 Action Network - Caritas Social Action a world where people are increasingly The God Who Speaks initiative will run 2. Lent Online from Belmont - The Art of Network - CSAN. shouting at each other it is quite a to the Sunday of the Word in January Listening Inspired by the life and example of challenge. But as a task for Lent it is 2022. In the Archdiocese of Cardiff, Kate 3. Global Healing Jesus Christ, Caritas Social Action worthy of our attention. Do join us! Duffin and Madeleine Walters, promote 4. The God Who Speaks: Timeline Network (CSAN) was established by the Watch the Introductory Video The God Who Speaks initiative and, for March and April 2021 Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England https://vimeo.com/504841483 Newsletters, contact Madeleine at St Mark’s Gospel Day-by-Day and Wales to develop the Church’s Timetable: From 9.45am connect via [email protected]. Mark’s Gospel re-told in British Sign social action in these parts of the United Zoom to begin at 10.00am LIVE Fr. Jerome Ituah OCD is the contact in Language Kingdom. We share in the mission of the Opening prayers and introduction. AM the Diocese of Menevia: 5. The Pope’s Prayer intentions: Catholic Church. We want England and VIDEO REFLECTIONS – Watch in own [email protected] March – Intention for evangelization ‐ Wales to be places where every person time (website); 11.30am LIVE Mass (via St Mark’s Gospel Day-by-Day. Sacrament of reconciliation can be fulfilled in their families and Zoom); Throughout 2021 the Bishops of April - Universal intention ‐ Fundamental communities, living with peace and 12.15pm LIVE Connecting (via Zoom) England and Wales invite you to join rights human dignity. Caritas Social Action for final thoughts, conversation, closing them in reading St Mark’s Gospel, just a 6. The Cycle of Prayer Network seeks to develop the capacity prayer to finish by 1.00pm. few verses each day. The God Who 7. Senedd and Police and Crime of personal, parish, community and Speaks Commissioner Elections on 6 May national action to address many forms of 3. Global Healing Global Healing Mark’s Gospel re-told in British Sign 2021 misery and to promote social justice in Suitable for: All who are concerned Language. We're excited to share our 8. Recalling issues highlighted by the England and Wales. The network about what is happening to our world series of signed videos produced in Catholic Bishops in Wales for the includes Catholic dioceses and and who want to take action.Notes: collaboration with Caritas Deaf Service. Senedd Elections in 2016 professional organisations committed to For further queries please contact In this series, key events from Mark’s 9. Planning for, and Organising, a the principles of Catholic Social Gareth Simpson, Project & Volunteer Gospel have been re-told in British Sign Citizens Cymru Wales Elections Teaching. Their work includes Manager, 02920 379483 Language. You can find out more here: Accountability Assembly community and specialist support for Description: In light of the The God Who Speaks 10. Caritas development in the families and children, the elderly, people environmental crisis our world is facing, Archdiocese of Cardiff who are homeless, refugees, the Pope Francis has called each of us to 5. The Pope’s Prayer intentions: [Visit: disabled, and prisoners. Their approach listen to the cry of the earth and the cry www.thepopevideo.org each month 1. Caritas Social Action Network – is often distinctive – in supporting of the poor. This Lent, join us for a series for the latest video] CSAN - Resources for Lent: 17 people who cannot access help of reflective evenings with inspiring March – Intention for evangelization ‐ February – 1 April 2021 elsewhere, in building on the dignity and speakers, prayer and discussion, using Sacrament of reconciliation Caritas Social Action Network - CSAN strengths of each person, and in being the film-based resource “Global “Let us pray that we may experience We encourage parishes and groups to present over the long term. They draw Healing”. These engaging the sacrament of reconciliation with consider using ‘Unless the Lord Builds on deep and lasting connections of documentaries will inform and challenge renewed depth, to taste the infinite the House‘, a study course on housing volunteers and staff with their people to respond to Pope Francis’ call mercy of God.” developed by the Centre for Theology neighbourhoods. to Care for Our Common Home. Suitable April – Universal intention ‐ and Community with support from for all who are concerned about what is Fundamental rights CSAN. More about our work on the 2. Lent Online from Belmont - The Art happening to our world and who want to “We pray for those who risk their lives national housing emergency here. of Listening Subscribe to the Belmont take action. When: Six Thursdays from while fighting for fundamental rights Growing back better – an online Abbey Email and Newletter 18th February – 25th March 2021, under dictatorships, authoritarian retreat series with Margaret Silf. BBC Wednesday mornings in Lent, 10am to 7.30pm – 8.30pm. Hosted by: The regimes and even in democracies in Radio 4 will explore aspects of Ignatian 1pm, 3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th March Global Catholic Climate Movement crisis.” spirituality and point listeners to "Christianity is above all a discipline of Laudato Si’ Animators in the UK. ‘Knowing Jesus’, an online retreat being listening, an art of listening." So writes Delivered by: Global Catholic Climate offered by the Ignatian Spirituality Centre Enzo Bianchi, echoing the experience of Movement. • Continued on Page 7 in Glasgow. The Catholic Bishops’ St Benedict and the monastic tradition to Register:https://zoom.us/meeting/registe

Designed and produced by CPMM Media Group, Suite 4, Pacific Chambers, 11-13 Victoria Street L2 5QQ. Tel: 0151 709 7567