Catholic April 2020 FREE EastAnglia Newspaper of the Diocese of East Anglia www.rcdea.org.uk Ash Wednesday A life-changing Grandmother marks the start year with Ignite makes 100s of of Lent for Jess dresses for – page 2 – page 8 African girls – page 10

Archbishop . Picture © Mazur/cbcew.org.uk Public acts of

worship to stop A letter from Cardinal and Mal- colm McMahon OP, on behalf of the Catholic Bishops Con- ference of England and Wales, was issued on March 18, stop- ping public acts of worship in Catholic churches until further notice.

n Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, In response to the Coronavirus pandemic, so many aspects of our lives must change. This includes the ways in which we publicly express our faith. It is very clear that, follow- ing official advice and in order to keep each other safe, save lives and support the NHS, at this time we must not gather for public acts of worship in our churches. This will begin from Friday evening, 20th March 2020, until further notice. Our churches will remain open. They are not closing. They will be a focal point of prayer, where you will find solace and strength. In visiting our churches at this time, we will observe with great care the practices of hygiene and the guidance on social dis- tancing. However, the celebration of Mass, Sunday Tributes paid to by Sunday and day by day, will take place without a public congregation. Knowing that the Mass is being celebrated; joining in spiritually in that celebration; watch- ing the live-streaming of the Mass; following its prayers at home; making an act of spiritual Archbishop Peter communion: this is how we share in the Sac- rifice of Christ in these days. These are the Tributes have been paid to 2010 until his retirement in 2019. Lord in His Church. Peter served as ways in which we will sanctify Sunday, and “I know that many of you will have bishop in three dioceses. There are, indeed every day. Archbishop Peter Smith, pre- fond remembrances and many stories of then, many who will remember him per- We want everyone to understand that in viously the second Catholic Archbishop Peter during his six years sonally and treasure those memories.” these emergency circumstances, and for as Bishop of East Anglia, who here which you will share with each A Diocesan Solemn Requiem Mass is long as they last, the obligation to attend other,” said Bishop Alan. “I have always due to be celebrated for Archbishop Mass on Sundays and Holy Days is died peacefully on March 6, been most grateful to him for his wise Peter in St John’s Cathedral on Friday removed. This is, without doubt, the teaching after a short illness. advice and encouragement both person- March 27 at 11.30am. This is now to be a of the Church (Catechism of the Catholic ally and at the Bishops’ Conference. private Mass with no public allowed. Church 2181). This pandemic is the ‘serious n Bishop said: “Archbishop “For over 50 years, he made an out- With great sadness the Archdiocese of reason’ why this obligation does not apply at Peter Smith died peacefully just before standing contribution to the Catholic Southwark has announced that the this time. midnight yesterday – March 6. He had Church across three dioceses and Funeral Liturgies of the late Archbishop Your own bishop and priest will pro- received the Sacraments of the Church nationally on the Bishops’ Conference. Emeritus Peter Smith, which are due to vide further support, encouragement and and his former secretary was with him His straightforward faith, his sense of take place on 29th and 30th March, will information about our way of prayer together when he died. His illness progressed humour, honesty and humanity and his no longer be open to the public due to in the coming weeks. very quickly just after his diagnosis ability to cut to the chase in any debate current public health concerns. The second vital aspect of these challeng- with cancer a few weeks ago.” stand out in a life which was dedicated It is hoped that it will be possible to ing times is our care for each other. There Archbishop Peter, aged 76, was the sec- to the Lord and his Church. May he rest hold a Mass In Memoriam later this are so many ways in which we are to do this: ond Bishop of East Anglia and served in peace.” year. Please continue to pray for the being attentive to the needs of our neighbour, the Diocese from 1995 until 2001 when he Cardinal Vincent Nichols, said: “Arch- repose of the sould of othe much loved especially the elderly and vulnerable; con- was translated to the See of Cardiff. He bishop Peter devoted his life entirely Archbishop Emeritus: may he rest in tributing to our local food banks; volunteering became in and unwaveringly to the service of the peace. for charitable initiatives and organisations; simply keeping in touch by all the means open to us. During these disturbing and threatening To keep up with the latest Diocese of East Anglia news, times, the rhythm of the prayer of the Church will continue. Please play your part in it. The including updates on precautions and events affected by effort of daily kindness and mutual support for all will continue and increase. Please play Coronavirus, please sign up for our weekly enews your part in this too. For your commitment to bulletin at rcdea.org.uk this, we thank you. Page 2 latest online news at: www.rcdea.org.uk Catholic East Anglia / April 2020 Ash Wednesday marks start of Lent

n On Ash Wednesday priests across the Diocese of East Anglia placed ashes on Bishop Alan distributing the foreheads of parishioners to mark the ashes at St John’s Cathedral. beginning of the season of Lent. At St John’s Cathedral in Norwich Bishop Alan Hopes was the main celebrant of the Ash Wednesday evening Mass, and led the blessing and distribu- tion of ashes, using the words: “Repent and believe the Gospel.” “Along our journey we are called to enter into a relationship with God,” he said in his homily. “Over the next six weeks the Church calls us to accompany Jesus on His journey. “To start the ball rolling,” the bishop pro- posed, “choose one of the Gospels and just read a short passage each day… There is so much joy and peace in know- ing and discovering God’s presence. “If something has gone wrong in a rela- tionship with someone, Lent is a time to

seek healing and reconciliation.” Bishop Alan encouraged his listeners to Some positive “make a space for themselves” and at the same time to engage in prayer, fasting and giving. “Friday is a good day to miss a thoughts from meal altogether,” he suggested. “May the Lord,” he concluded, “grant us all a faithful and fruitful Lent.”

n Pope Francis has written some thoughts giving a more positive out- look to the current situation: “Tonight before falling asleep think Fr Sandro talks of about when we will return to the street. When we hug again, when all the shopping together will seem like a party. Let’s think about when the coffees Ethiopian mission will return to the bar, the small talk, the photos close to each other. Our Lady of Lourdes, Sawston We think about when it will all be a and St John Fisher Fr Sandro Barbieri meeting and talking memory, but normalcy will seem an to parishioners at Cambourne. unexpected and beautiful gift. Cambourne welcomed back Fr We will love everything that has so Sandro Barbieri, who had far seemed futile to us. Every second spent several months with the will be precious. parish studying English a cou- Swims at the sea, the sun until late, ple of years ago, to talk about sunsets, toasts, laughter. We will go back to laughing his work as a missionary in together. Ethiopia. Mel Ward reports. Strength and courage, See you soon! n After years of parish work in Italy, Fr Sandro had felt called to serve as a mis- Catholic sionary. In February, he spent one evening talk- EastAnglia ing at OLOL and the next sharing his experiences in Ethiopia at Cambourne. Newspaper of the Diocese of East Anglia The Maranto family opened up their EDITOR: Keith Morris home to us and he talked us through the tel: 07712 787762 life, culture, and daily life of his commu- ‘enemy’ is a real and ongoing challenge Many people come to hear the ‘catech- Pear Tree Farmhouse, nity in Abol in Ethiopia. and crucial in such a fragile and troubled esis’ at the compound and the Catholic Wymondham Road, The village is not far from war-torn community. community there is beginning to flourish Wreningham, Norwich, Sudan and the large community of dis- There are three local dialects and few as more choose to get baptised – a danger- NR16 1AT placed people in the region causes tribal able to speak English or Italian, but Fr ous choice for many. As with many of email: tension and fear in a land with limited Sandro’s cheerfulness and joy in the our own children at times the draw of a [email protected] resources. Now known as ‘Abba’ Sandro gospel shines through. He admits to frus- biscuit at the end is attractive. he has decorated the church with murals tration at times and the 40 degrees heat If you wish to support Abba Sandro’s Articles and photographs for the next that preach the gospel with joy and inclu- makes physical tasks a struggle, but he is mission please contact our parish priest, edition are very welcome and should be siveness. The mural of the last Supper leading by example, trying to grow crops Fr John Minh. A little goes a very long sent to the editor, ideally via email, by shows people from the different ethnic and buying sheep to try and encourage a way – a teacher’s salary is just 100 euros the deadline of Monday April 6. groups around the table. greater sense of diversification and a month, an assistant teacher earns 70 Abba Sandro’s compound is a place of opportunity to people who do not even euros a month and the cleaner 50. The Diocese website: www.rcdea.org.uk sanctuary as well as a vital source of have a future tense in their language. first aid costs about 200 euros a month. water for those who would otherwise Getting through the day sharing what One of our community paid the salary Advertising: Contact Charlotte at Cath- have to pay for it or walk many kilome- you have is seen as sufficient when life is of one of the three teachers for a year. com on tel 01440 730399 or email at tres carrying very heavy containers. so hard. This is such practical and positive evan- [email protected] Digging a new well is a true sign of living Our parish has helped to support some gelism and our young people were Publisher: Cathcom Ltd, 0207 112 6710 water in many ways in a place where a of the teaching staff. The school also delighted to see an old friend and truly glass of clean water is greatly prized. offers first aid, and helping to fund impressed by the simplicity and dedica- Inclusion of adverts is the responsibility of There is a school within the compound antibiotic creams, plasters etc is impor- tion of Fr Sandro and his co-workers. His the publisher Cathcom and does not imply made up of every faith and ethnic group, tant. Sometimes of course, they have to aim is to help the compound become self- endorsement by the Diocese of East but teaching the Christian faith to all. send people to the health centre, but that sufficient over the next few years and to Anglia. Learning to work and play together with has to be paid for which is beyond the serve as an example of stewardship, love, those who may be regarded as your means of many. joy and hope. Catholic East Anglia / April 2020 follow us on Twitter at: twitter.com/RCEastAnglia Page 3

news in brief Church gives warm Two pilgrimages and welcome to families Ignite Festival are Bishop Alan Hopes cancelled due to welcomed individuals and families from Coronavirus across the Diocese n A number of high-profile events around the who are preparing to Diocese of East Anglia have been cancelled or postponed following the measures put in place on enter full communion March 16 by the Prime Minister in an attempt to with the Catholic contain Coronavirus. Church at Easter. These include the annual Diocesan Pilgrimage to Walsingham (which is due to be rescheduled for Eldred Willey reports. later in the year), the Children's Pilgrimage to Wals- ingham at the end of May and the Ignite Festival at n Priests and sponsors from Swaffham, also in May. many parishes across Nor- The Chrism Mass, on Tuesday April 7, will now folk, Suffolk and not be open to the public and will instead be cap- Cambridgeshire made the tured in words, pictures and video and be posted journey to St John’s Cathe- online soon afterwards. More details of this will be dral in Norwich on Sunday carried on the diocesan website www.rcdea.org.uk March 1 with Candidates and as soon as possible. Catechumens they are sup- The first Caritas Festival, which was due to be porting. held at St George’s in Norwich on March 28, has The Rite of Election marks also been cancelled. an important stage along Caritas development worker, Jacinta Goode, their journey as they said: “Please pray for those who were to take part undergo the final stages of and those they serve, and especially anyone who RCIA (Rite of Catholic Initia- Bishop Alan welcoming catechumens is suffering the effects of the coronavirus in any tion of Adults) and prepare to at St John’s Cathedral. way. Caritas is here to serve the poor and margin- be either Confirmed, or to be alised and clearly now is a time when the people of received into the Full Com- God can share His love in helping those in need.” munion of the Church and journey of faith,” said Bishop Alan in his remember that He is always If you are able to help coordinate support for the receive the Eucharist for the first time, homily. “It will define your faith journey there, full of love. vulnerable through this time, please contact Jac- which both take place at the Easter Vigil. for the rest of your lives.” “Today is a powerfully signifi- inta: [email protected] Catechumens are adults who have Bishop Alan spoke of the challenge of cant moment for the life of the A day of prayer and study St Ethelreda's in New- never been baptised and seek to becomes entering this season leading up to Easter. Church in our diocese,” con- market for Catholic men on April 25, being members of the through “Lent becomes for us a moment of real cluded Bishop Alan. “Discover organised by Damian Wallace and John D’Mello on the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirma- growth and strength as the Church jour- with us new joy and life in the liv- behalf of the Marriage and Family Life Commission tion and the Eucharist. After being neys towards her heavenly home,” he ing Christ. May God bless you of the Diocese of East Anglia. greeted by Bishop Alan, they were said. all.” invited to write their names in the Book “You will all bring gifts with you, and of the Elect. you will have such an important part to Roman Catholic Diocese of East Anglia Candidates are adults who have been play in the life and mission of the baptised in one of the Christian denomi- Catholic Church,” continued Bishop nations and now seek to become Alan. members of the Catholic Church through “Jesus is the one who has been calling Stewardship and the Rite of Reception, whereby they will you to undertake this journey, and He is receive the Sacraments of Confirmation the one on whom you must fix your gaze and Eucharist. for the rest of your lives. If you are ever Fundraising Coordinator “This marks a special moment on your tempted to go off at some tangent, 40 hours per week (including evening meetings) Salary £30-35,000 plus pension 3 year contract (to be extended if targets are met) East Anglia Masses The Diocese of East Anglia is a growing part of the Catholic Church with record ordinations of new priests, hard-working clergy and committed volunteers. We want to build on this growth to support stewardship within our 51 parishes and give everyone the opportunity to contribute their time and talents to the mission of the to be live-streamed Church. In this important new post, you will take the lead role in helping parishes to engage With the decision to stop public being explored and will be carried on the their parishioners to consider how they can support their local parish with their skills acts of worship in Catholic cathedral website and enthusiasm and also financially. Working closely with parish finance committees churches in England and Wales www.sjbcathedral.org.uk and clergy, you will guide them through Stewardship Campaigns and help to following government advice on Sean Martin, who helped to set up the encourage Parish Giving through regular donations and Gift Aid. Over three years, live stream at St Laurence’s, is happy to Coronavirus, two churches in the we expect that you will have worked with every parish in the Diocese. As the post have a conversation with any other dioce- Diocese of East Anglia already live develops, you will also have the opportunity to help develop capital appeals and san churches who may wish to explore help with fundraising projects and events. stream their Masses online and St setting this up, to help point them in the If the successful candidate has limited experience in church fundraising, then initial John’s Cathedral is following suit. right direction. training for the post will be provided by the Diocese of Westminster. You can also tune into a daily Mass You can contact Sean on 07775 514294 The role will involve travel across and occasionally outside the Diocese. on Cambridge-based Radio Maria. or at: [email protected] Applications are welcome from people of any background. You do not have to be n Meanwhile, Cambridge-based station Catholic but an understanding of the Church would be an advantage. This role will n This week, Cardinal Vincent Nichols Radio Maria will continue to broadcast suit a confident, creative individual with solid communication, organisational and mentioned the usefulness of streaming if daily Church liturgy, the Mass, and the co-ordination skills. You may have experience with individual or community giving. churches need to celebrate Mass without Holy Rosary. The station also provides a congregation. teaching and catechesis covering faith Further details and an application form at Live streaming is currently available and social issues, programmes focusing www.rcdea.org.uk/Vacancies or by emailing from St Laurence's in Cambridge and also on human and social development, and [email protected] from the Catholic National Shrine at news from across the world. Closing date: 11.59pm Monday 20th April Walsingham and more details are Led by Diocese of East Anglia priest Presentation and Interviews: In Poringland on Thursday available on these links. Rev Dr Samuel Randall, you can find out 30th April how to listen on DAB radio in www.saintlaurence.org.uk/live Cambridgeshire and via a smartphone www.walsingham.org.uk/live-stream For an informal discussion, please contact Matthew app, iTunes and online everywhere else The possibility of introducing live steam- Fernandez-Graham on 01508 492540 ing to St John’s Cathedral is currently also at: www.radiomariaengland.uk Page 4 latest online news at: www.rcdea.org.uk Catholic East Anglia / April 2020 NEW EVANGELISATION Day of prayer for survivors of abuse

The Day of Prayer for Victims n A prayer resource has been created by and spirit all sorts of long-lasting conflicts Mass for abuse survivors and Survivors of Sexual Caroline Dollard, Marriage & Family Life and struggles - it can be like a battlefield in Adviser, Bishops’ Conference, and by mem- the body. n A special Mass for victims and survivors Abuse will be marked this bers of the Let’s Be Honest Group (a group “Everyone can do something towards alle- of abuse, their families, supporters and all year on Friday April 3, a day that includes survivors). The prayer viating that pain. Pope Francis says the those affected by abuse is set to be held by when people are asked to resources are for use at home, in a family Church must be like a field hospital in battle, the Diocese of East Anglia on Saturday April setting, or in the parish. ready to respond, ready to heal the 25. think about and pray for all “Wherever we choose to respond to this wounds.” The Mass will be held from 12 noon those impacted directly by call to prayer, the resources offer an oppor- The resources offered can be used on the onwards at Our Lady and St Thomas of abuse – for the victims them- tunity to listen to the voices of survivors and day itself or the surrounding days. Canterbury Church, Wymondham, Norfolk, reflect on the impact of abuse,” said Caro- and there will be refreshments available selves, their families, friends, line. Resources both before and afterwards. It will be cele- and communities. “The traumatic effects of sexual abuse ww.cbcew.org.uk/home/events/day-of- brated by Fr Pat Cleary from the Diocesan cause a person to experience in mind, body prayer-abuse-survivors-2020/ Safeguarding Commission. Enjoying the Bible

Free Sample Pack of Foam & fabrics sent by first class mail. When phoning please quote CEA101 in music and art

Churches Together in Ipswich gathered for an event called JOE WALSH TOURS “Enjoy the Bible - Sensing the PILGRIMAGES 2020 Sacred Through Music and Art” on Saturday March 7, as MEDJUGORJE £ part of The God Who Speaks 12 & 19 MAY & 2 JUNE | 7 NIGHTS £645 initiative, reports Alan From Manchester pps Hodgson. » Direct return 昀ights to Croatia » Breakfast & evening meal served daily » Staying near St. James’s church n The culmination of months of work » Full religious programme between the central churches of Ipswich, and » Guided tour of the Shrine, Hill of Apparitions led ably by Fr John Thackray of St Mary-at- and climb to Mt. Krizevac the Elms, the day was held at the Anglican St Nicholas Centre. ORGANISE YOUR GROUP PILGRIMAGE! Two guest speakers were invited to offer a » Direct 昀ights from various airports in the UK reflection to all who attended. The morning » Special incentives for group bookings based started with Christopher Borrett, Director of on group numbers Music for St Mary-le-Tower, leading us » Free promotional materials to assist your tours through the history of sacred music; right » Fully licenced and bonded Tour Operator from the music of Solomon and King David for your full 昀nancial protection through to chant and polyphonic music. : 0203 468 0617 | MANCHESTER: 0161 820 8790 Christopher explained how music (and Fleur Dorrell speaking in Ipswich. Picture by Philip King. www.joewalshtours.co.uk | [email protected] sacred music in particular) permeates every Licenced by the Commission for Aviation Regulation, TO 052 and TA 0689 in compliance aspect of our lives often without us even real- with the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangement Package Regulation 2018. ising it. related music. religious art. The talk was peppered with beautiful After all that singing, a welcome cup of tea The day was attended by over 60 people, pieces of music, history and ideas to help was enjoyed and it was wonderful to see mainly from the Catholic parishes of Ipswich, everyone who attended to appreciate sacred people from different denominations enjoying but also from Felixstowe and Hadleigh. As arranged for readers of Catholic East Anglia music more deeply. Christopher explained each other’s company and swapping stories. well as many representatives from other that there are many parts of the Old Testa- After the break, Fleur Dorrell from the Christian churches within and around ment that were originally written for music Catholic Bishops’ Conference and Bible Ipswich. and how, in later years, composers have Society, spoke to us about how artists There will be several further events used Scripture in the most profound and throughout the ages have used scripture for throughout the diocese during the Year of the beautiful ways. inspiration and ideas. Word - there was plenty of room for more Christopher carries a wealth of experience Using images such as Ford Madox people to attend this most fascinating of of conducting and directing music and is an Brown’s beautiful image of Christ washing mornings; I can only endorse this event and accomplished bass singer himself. He soon Peter’s feet to Caravaggio’s portrayal of St encourage even more people to attend these had everyone singing simple tunes to Thomas touching Christ after the resurrec- events in the future. As well as meeting new demonstrate some of the more complex tion as well as images of the Annunciation, people, it is an easy and interesting way to ideas of music to help people to understand Fleur discussed the use of colour, space learn about Scripture and gain a deeper the richness and beauty of Scripture and lighting and what to look out for in understanding of God’s love for us. Romantic Valentines dinner at church

n Thirteen couples enjoyed a romantic There were couples ragning from those and St Etheldreda, they worked together to evening on St Valentine’s Day at Our Lady married 50 years to those planning it soon. prepare a really fine meal with thoughtful Immaculate and St Etheldreda parish, New- The event was prepared and hosted by a touches celebrating marriage, which is ‘the market, reports Rita Harben. team of Newmarket parishioners who have most beautiful thing God has created,’ While most couples came from Newmar- been enjoying the marriage enrichment according to Pope Francis. ket, there were guests welcomed from course, Cana Welcome. Making use of the Cana is a mission of Chemin Neuf Com- Cambourne, Mildenhall and Stowmarket. excellent facilities at Our Lady Immaculate munity: www.chemin-neuf.org.uk/en/home Catholic East Anglia / April 2020 like us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/CatholicEastAnglia Page 5

news in brief Chance to join ecumenical pilgrimage

n There is the opportunity to follow Norwich link to Newman in the footsteps of countless pilgrims and join an ecumenical pilgrimage to Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk this digital archives May. n A new free online digital archive of 8,000 letters written to As part of the celebrations to mark and by Cardinal John Henry Newman has been launched the 1000th anniversary of the found- online with a number of links to the Diocese of East Anglia. ing of the Abbey of St Edmund, two The National Institute of Newman Studies launched the walks will trace the routes taken by free online resource in early January. the first Benedictine monks who Lawrence R Gregory, Archivist to the Institute, said: “There came from St Benet’s in Norfolk and are presently just under 8000 digitised letters catalogued and Ely in Cambridgeshire to found the uploaded to the system, with more being added each day. At Abbey in Bury St Edmunds. this stage the collection relates solely to the recently canon- For the more adventurous, the 80- ised 19th Century theologian, Cardinal John Henry Newman, mile walk from St Benet’s on the and comprises of letters written both by him, and to him. Norfolk Broads starts on Monday Pilgrims on St Edmunds Way “As the project develops we plan to incorporate collections May 18 at Ludham with a boat trip between Bures and Lamarsh. from other archives, related to key individuals in 19th century across the river Bure. Travelling via English Catholicism.” Norwich (stopping at the Julian Diocese of East Anglia archivist, Michael Hill, visited the outskirts of Bury St Edmunds and Cathedral. “We hope that this will be shrine) and Diss (stopping at St archive and found a number of items with an East Anglian conclude with Evensong in the a time of reflection and renewal for Henry Morse Catholic church) the link: “I have just test dipped into the archive using “Nor- Abbey ruins. Accommodation, break- those who make the pilgrimage and walkers will reach Bury St Edmunds wich”(7 results), “Husenbeth” (22 results), “Norfolk” (253 fast and dinner is provided and a those communities through which five days later. results). There must be so much more to find. support vehicle will be on hand for the pilgrims pass.” A second route starts at Ely digitalcollections.newmanstudies.org luggage. Day walkers are welcome. To find out more, please contact Cathedral early on the morning of www.newmanstudies.org “This is a joint venture between St [email protected]. Full Thursday May 21, and makes its ways to Bury St Edmunds via Edmundsbury Cathedral and St details, prices and information on Mildenhall and Icklingham. This Edmund’s RC Church in Bury St how to book can be found on Parish Colombia link Edmunds – both partners in the www.stedscathedral.org/events/pil- shorter route is about 30 miles but is n St Laurence’s church in Cambridge has chosen Hands on Abbey 1000 celebrations,” said grimage-2020 and the deadline is now fully booked Colombia as its CAFOD project for 2020 and recently held Sarah Friswell, PR Manager at the now March 25. Both pilgrimages converge on the an evening to find out more. Nora Darby reports. The Hands On Colombia launch evening on Saturday Jan- uary 25 saw a sell-out attendance with Jess Michelmore, Communications Officer for CAFOD South America giving a very interesting talk and slide presentation about Colombia in general and more specifically on the Magdalena Medio Record attendance at region which we will be supporting.

Candlemas Day party Bishop’s Laity Council n A Candlemas Day party for parish volunteers was held at Our Lady of the Annunciation, King's Lynn, on Sunday Feb- ruary 2, reports Pauline McSherry. A record A few words of welcome and gratitude from Canon Peter number of and our party began. Our Canon, with his assistant Priest Fr Gordon and Deacons John, Shaun and Martin ministered to parish repre- their guests with the aplomb of five-star waiters. sentatives attended the Bishop’s Roman Catholic Diocese of East Anglia

Council of the Laity Meeting on Finance and November 23 at Administration Poringland, reports its Assistant Secretary, 20 hours per week (permanent post) Maureen Up to £12 per hour dependent on qualifications

Costello. and experience plus pension Based at the Diocesan Offices in Poringland n After answering The Diocese of East Anglia is a growing part of the Catholic Church the matters raised with record ordinations of new priests, hard-working clergy and by the parish rep- committed volunteers. We are further strengthening our financial resentatives about controls and have created this new post to assist with this process. Parish Pastoral You will work as part of the small Diocesan Finance and Resources Councils and Team to support the Diocesan Accountant in accounting for the Parish Finance finances of the Diocese. This will involve setting up bank payments Committees, for authorisation, posting transactions to the general ledger, Bishop Alan then inputting journals, credit control and reconciling the bank accounts. provided important informa- East Anglia in which she high- at 11am. The meeting finishes at You will assist other administrative staff to ensure that office tion for the representatives to lighted the importance of the approximately 1.15pm followed administration is carried out efficiently and effectively. take back to their parishes. involvement of the laity. Jac- by light refreshments. Applications are welcome from people of any background. This Bishop Alan covered a range inta explained about the For those parishes who have role will suit a team player who is also used to working on their of topics which included: Festival taking place in three not been represented, a letter is own in a quiet environment. You will have strong attention to n an update about the clergy different places in Diocese and going out to the parish priest detail and be well organised. in the diocese the link with the Youth Service asking him to pass on the infor- Further details and an application form can n the importance of the Year for the Big Sleep Out event later mation to the appropriate be found at www.rcdea.org.uk/Vacancies of The God Who Speaks in the year. She also gave out person to attend the meeting in or by emailing [email protected] n Our new saint – John Henry some handouts providing more May. Closing date: 11.59pm Monday April 6 Newman information about Caritas. Agendas and reminders will Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by n ICSA – Royal Commission: The next Meeting of the Coun- go directly to those representa- Friday April 17 Inquiry into Sexual Abuse. cil of the Laity is on Saturday tives who have previously For an informal discussion, please contact There was then a very inter- May 16, at the Conference Cen- attended. We are looking for- Paul Wilson or Matthew Fernandez- esting presentation from tre, Poringland. There is tea and ward to seeing all parishes in Graham on 01508 492540 Jacinta Goode about Caritas coffee at 10.30am for the meeting the diocese represented. Page 6 latest online news at: www.rcdea.org.uk Catholic East Anglia / April 2020 obituary Greatly loved and respected priest Bishop Peter Parishioners across the Diocese of East Anglia Fr William Wells ( 29 May 1929 – 21 February have sent it their memories and tributes to 2020) had a very unusual and wide-ranging Archibishop Peter Smith, the former Bishop of ministry. Fr Michael Rear pays tribute. East Anglia.

n Born into an Australian Anglican family he became a n “A real man of the people when he was Bishop of East Anglia and no member of the Bush Brotherhood of St Paul as soon as he doubt beyond. He was often seen at St Georges joining in with the was ordained deacon in 1952; a missionary community Divorced and Separated Group meetings then in existence and having which lived under vows, and ministered to remote Aborigi- a cigarette with fellow smokers sitting on the wall outside (this was the nal communities that couldn’t be reached by road. The 1980s). priests were described as a ‘band of men’ who could ‘preach “I also got to know him quite well on a visit to Lourdes when I hap- like Apostles’ and ‘ride like cowboys’. pened to be placed on the same table as him at the hotel we stayed at It is eye-popping to imagine that rotund and jolly charac- – many jokes and much fun was had by all. When it came to going ter we knew and loved in and around Walsingham, as an home he was determined to find out how my rather unusual wheelchair adventurous young man astride a horse. Some of them came apart so that he could help load it onto the coach. He will be learned to fly light aircraft, but William never did, a mercy much missed and in our prayers.” since he was lethal and nervous driving a car. Anne Murrin The idea of religious life took hold of him and brought him St George’s, Norwich to England in 1961 to test his vocation at the Anglican Monastery of Our Lady and St Benedict, Nashdom Abbey. n “Bishop Peter was one of the kindest priests it has been our pleasure Although he left before final vows he never set foot in Aus- and honour to know. We accompanied him on many events in the UK tralia again. After a short spell as Chaplain to the Sisters of and Rome. He was a learned man with great knowledge and we were the Holy Paraclete in Whitby, his missionary vocation took able to have the deepest of dialogues conducted with such grace and over once more. Like many remarkable Anglo-Catholic humour. He never missed a beat. priests of his day he “He was also always available when really needed. When I found answered the call to myself bereft on losing my mother, he was the one priest who took time work in deprived to sit, listen, talk and pray. His intercession helped enormously. He parts of Central Amer- never stopped being a man of the people, a true priest. In a busy world ica, where he spent 15 so many lose focus on what years as a parish the mission actually is, Peter and also head- never did. master of a Church “We had so many great school. chats and giggles in so many On returning to fine and humble venues. His England in 1980 he loss will be felt enormously. I worked as a prison hope and trust that the chaplain in Rudgate church will be certain to con- and Thorpe Arch tinue his mission. This will Remand Centre for be his true legacy. Whilst he young offenders, rests in eternal peace.” before becoming Vicar Katushka Giltsoff of Brambles Farm, Sherborne, Dorset Middlesborough. It was a tough assign- n “I was always impressed ment, and the church and grateful to Archbishop building eventually Peter Smith for his moral closed due to vandalism, lack of funds and arson. Fr William guidance especially standing loved it and quipped that when he went there he discovered up for the values and protec- where the inmates of Thorpe Arch did their training. He tion of traditional marriage stayed for seven years before retiring to the peace of Wals- and family life. He was an ingham, a cheerful presence in the village. excellent spokesman and There he was received into the Catholic Church and ambassador for the Catholic ordained priest at the age of 68, along with eight other and elderly former Anglicans; William wasn’t the oldest. They Wales.” have all given the most wonderful service to the Church, Sarah Green well justifying Bishop Peter’s trust in them. If Bishop Peter St Edmunds Parish had preached the same homily today it would have probably Bury St Edmunds have landed him in hot water for the ageist quips he made, like ‘I won’t ask you to prostrate yourselves because I don’t n “We remember Bishop how we would get you up again’. And a beautiful tribute: Peter at the celebration in ‘Many men reaching your age would say “I’ve laboured long the crypt of St Edmunds fol- and hard in the vineyard of the Lord and I’m ready to hang lowing the confirmation Mass up my boots”. ‘But you brethren have asked to carry on, and of our granddaughter Lind- I salute you’. sey McCann in May 2000. So did the parishioners of Walsingham where he fre- “We also met him at the quently celebrated Mass at the Annunciation, as well as choir Jubilee Mass in Sep- hearing Confessions each Saturday at the Shrine. There was tember 2000 when we were a lovely naivety about him. On visiting the doctor for some both presented with Special ailment he was told that red wine would be good for him. It Diocesan medals. We wasn’t long before people noticed - inevitably he collapsed. remember speaking to The doctor came and respectfully enquired, ‘Do you drink, Bishop Peter immediately father’? ‘Yes’ he assured him, ‘you told me to’. ‘About how after a Mass in Newmarket much’? ‘I try to drink a bottle a day’, William answered. ‘I when he came outside to meant a glass’, replied the horrified doctor. From that have a cigarette. moment William never drank another drop. “Following Bishop Alan In 2003, he moved to Blakeney where, like his predecessors Clarke, Bishop Peter wasn't over many years, he became almost priest-in-charge, greatly with us very long before loved and respected. His solitary retirement years were moving to Cardiff. He was a spent studying, rather like a monk. He gained his BTh in wonderful person.” Oxford, and then a Master of Laws in Catholic canon law. George & Shirley His erudite homilies became legendary, and all those who Grimshaw heard him thought them wonderful even if they couldn’t Bury St Edmunds understand everything he said. Catholic East Anglia / April 2020 like us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/CatholicEastAnglia Page 7 Scheme is life-saver

Living in a modest semi in the Then there are young lads like Abdu, memories Hellesdon area of Norwich, Elaine refugees who have had to fight against the Tattersall is no less than a life-saver odd to even be there. according to the two young refugees “It is about giving them their own space and allowing them to find their feet with edu- for whom she provides a home as cation or a job or whatever,” said Elaine. “I part of YMCA Norfolk’s vital am here as a support, but not to do every- Supported Lodgings scheme. thing for them. There are always up and downs but I do not try to mother them.” n Abdu was just 14 when he left his home in The vast majority have stayed with Elaine Africa, where his family faced persecution. In for at least 18 months. his pocket he had as much money as the “The best thing about the role is when you family could scrape together to pay the peo- see people who are ready to move on, they ple traffickers who promised to get him to the have either healed relationships or they have UK. He spent the next two years of his young life on the hazardous journey, first travelling thousands of miles across North Africa, and then liter- ally taking his life in his hands to board a totally inadequate boat to cross the Mediterranean Sea. He spent months in the notorious Jungle camp at Calais and eventu- ally managed to hide in a lorry and get into the UK. He was resettled to Great Yarmouth and then to stay with Elaine in Norwich through YMCA Elaine and Abdu. Norfolk’s Supported Lodgings scheme when, eventually, his situa- tion started to look a whole lot brighter. grown in some way or are just in a better Elaine, a semi-retired Tai Chi teacher, has place,” said Elaine. been providing a home for dozens of young “I am so happy to be here. Anytime I need people like Abdu over the past 11 years or help Elaine is there,” said Abdu. “It feels like so, after her eldest son left home and she Archbishop Peter Smith pictured my real family and I call Elaine Mum, had a spare bedroom. while he was Bishop of East Anglia. because she has taught me to cook and how Elaine currently provides her two young Above,in the garden of the Bishop’s to live a more healthy lifestyle.” lodgers with their own rooms (which they White House in Poringland, below “I wish there was a lot more people like have to look after themselves) and shared left, at the blessing of a new building Elaine as without people like her and the kitchen and bathroom facilities. at Clare Priory and, below right, with YMCA my life would be nothing,” he admit- “They are all troubled teenagers who, for children at St Edmunds School after ted. “Family is not just about blood. Family is one reason or another, have been made the blessing of a new building. about who loves you and who you love homeless,” she said. Pictures all courtesy of Archant. back.” Do you have a heart for young people?

Why not become a Supported Lodgings or Nightstop host! If you are willing to provide a young person in need with a room in your home and support them on their journey, we would love to hear from you. YMCA Norfolk is looking for hosts for vulnerable young people and has both paid and volunteer opportunities, from just one night or up to two years. You won’t be alone in this, YMCA Norfolk will help by providing training and ongoing support. To find out more please contact our friendly Supported Lodgings team: YMCA Community Housing, 29-34 Anglia Square, Norwich, NR3 1DZ T: 01603 662455 E: [email protected] www.ymcanorfolk.org Page 8 like our schools at: www.facebook.com/RCDEANewSchools Catholic East Anglia / April 2020 SCHOOLS IN FOCUS Pupils from two schools win painting prizes

n Pupils from two Catholic Primary Alyssa de Pina 2nd, schools in the Diocese, St Augustine's at Beatrix Huke-Jenner Costessey, and St Mary's at Lowestoft, 3rd; then at KS1 - were presented with certificates, up to £10 Rosie Shillings 2nd, prize-money and framed copies of their Chloe Woolston 3rd, winning entries in the Knights of St Grace Marie Spear- Columba (KSC) 2019 Nativity Scene man 1st. The entries Painting competition on February 14. from Grace-Marie. Pictured (right above) at St Augustine's, Alyssa and Lola have Costessey, from the left, are the six win- also gone forward for ning children of KSC Norwich Council - national adjudication. KS1 Ewan Pickford 3rd, Vera Unazi 1st, Current KSC spon- Victoria Unazi 2nd; KS2 - 3rd Lucy Cocka- sored youth chal- day, 2nd - Grace Unazi, 1st Laurence & lenges for all schools Amanda Palabrica. Back Row - Head- this half term and the Teacher Rachel Swindell, Norwich Council Summer are the Grand Knight Colin Harper, East Anglia Easter Scene Paint- Provincial Grand Knight Jason Wickard, ing and Prayer Writ- Parish Priest Fr. David Ward and Past ing competitions PGK Christopher Brooks. whilst the 2020 Essay The entries from Laurence and the Un- Writing competition is azi sisters are being judged in the National for High School stu- Finals Round of the competition where dents only. £30, £20 & £15 are being offered to the Youth competitions best three entries in each group with £150 can also be entered by Catholic children donation to the school or parish providing not attending a , directly the winner. from families, Liturgy groups, Sunday Pictured (right below) with Head- School, or other youth clubs in the Parish. Teacher Imelda Cooper, PGK Jason Full details can be obtained from Bro Wickard and PPGK Christopher Brooks Christopher Brooks, PPGK, East Anglia are the six St Mary's winners of Lowestoft Province 27 - Tel (01502) 563208 - Email: Council, from left: KS2 - Lola Wicks 1st, [email protected] New school is named Bishop Alan Hopes n Bishop Alan explained his choice of approved the new school on February 14, school to open in September 2022. has announced that name, saying: “Newman was hugely con- the Diocesan Schools’ Team has been busy This will include deciding staffing struc- cerned that there should be an educated working on key areas. tures and making appointments, setting the new Catholic laity in the church, in order to be able to These include meeting with the Depart- budgets, writing policies and procedures, primary school due to pass the Faith onto others. ment for Education and city council officers ordering resources, marketing the school open in Peterborough “He built a university in Dublin to this on the building of the school, and identify- and deciding on the school uniform… to end and taught the Faith himself through ing the skills and expertise needed for the name just a few things! in September 2022, his own works and preaching. Shadow Governing Body. Updates on the progress of the new school will be called St John “At the time he was canonised, earlier One of the first tasks of this governing will be regularly posted onto the Diocese’s Henry Newman this year, our Diocese had begun negotia- body, which will stay in place until the full website, which will have a dedicated web- tions for the new school in Peterborough, so governing body takes over when the new page for the new St John Henry Newman Catholic Primary it seemed very appropriate for the school to school opens, is to appoint a headteacher for School. School after the newly be named after him and placed under his the new school. In due course, the school will have its own canonised saint. patronage and prayers.” They will to work with the Headteacher to website. Since Peterborough City Council ensure everything is in place to allow the

Celebrating our Schools Adverts PromoteThese advertsyour school can whilebe Faith Club celebrates first anniversary usedsupporting to promote the open paper days, staff vacancies as well as supporting n Children from St Mary’s Great the paper Yarmouth and St Peter’s Gorleston Faith Club helped celebrate its first anniversary on February 9 and 16 when Fr Alvan Ibeh celebrated Contact Janet Contact Charlotte Masses at both parishes. byby phone phone 0144001440 730399 730399 The children did the Bible read- oror email email ings, bidding prayers and the offer- [email protected]@cathcom.org tory procession. They also led the singing with the support of the lead- ers and parents and Hamish Mac- Queen from Ignite, who garnished the singing with his guitar. Hamish also joined both after- Mass celebrations and lead the chil- dren in a rendition of My Lighthouse. This was greatly enjoyed by the many parishioners who gathered to take a keen interest in the Club's first year and all ate cake and refresh- ments together. Pictured right is the St Mary's Faith Club with parish priests, Fr Anthony Nwankwo and Fr Alvan Ibeh. Catholic East Anglia / April 2020 follow youth news on Twitter at: twitter.com/igniteyea Page 9 YOUTH MATTERS A life changing year As applications for the Ignite youth team for 2020-21 open, Jess McCall, who was on the Ignite Team last year, writes about her experiences.

n I vaguely knew what to expect. I had been a part of the Ignite Lite Team (part-time volun- teers) for some time and had been to help about anything. at several events. What I couldn’t have When I joined the Ignite Team I had no predicted was how much joining the team idea what I was going to do when the year would change my life. was over. I had continuously been chang- I joined only really knowing the basics ing my mind about what my career would of my faith and being in the team for the be. I had considered a multitude of differ- Open the Book team year allowed me to really grow in my ent things and none of them quite felt knowledge and my faith, really deepening right. Through joining the team, working my understanding of what it means to be with young people and building on my n With the start of the Spring school props being made by the team. Perfor- a Catholic. I also grew as a person. My relationship with God I realised that I term the “Open The Book” team in mances take place fortnightly during confidence at speaking in front of people should train to be a teacher. Sawtry Cambridgeshire is back in full term time at Sawtry Junior Academy and massively improved as well as an under- I loved the time that I spent on the swing reports Roy Dunn. children are encouraged to take part as standing of my own strengths and Ignite Team and I would definitely recom- Members of St Benedict's Catholic much as possible. weaknesses. There was always the oppor- mend joining the team to everyone even Community, together with members of tunity to work on those weaknesses with considering it. It’s a year well spent. the local Anglican and Methodist Pictured is the group after performing support from the people around us and to churches, offer primary school children ‘Jonah the Groaner’ which is of course really take advantage of our strengths. an opportunity to hear Bible stories from the story of Jonah and the Whale. Left to Being a part of the team meant that I Why not join the the `Lion Storyteller Bible’. right are Su Merton, Joan Meiklejohn, had the opportunity to be a part of some of Each Bible story is acted out in a 10- Dorothy Dunn, Andre Bradley, Tony Ste- minute play with all the costumes and fanelli, Roy Dunn and Martin Baker. the larger events that we do like the Ignite Ignite team Festival but also the smaller things as well. I loved being able to go and see so many churches and schools and talk to so n We’re looking for people to join next many young people about their faith. It year's Ignite team! was so amazing to see so many young peo- So if you are: ple engaged in the work that we were • Age 18 (by September) - 29 doing. • in between jobs or stages of education The opportunity to live in Walsingham • leaving school or university this summer for a year was amazing. The quietness of but not sure what to do next year. Walsingham was so different to what I • unsettled in what you are doing. was used to, yet it was a great place to • wanting to do something 'different’ think, reflect and pray. Walsingham will • thinking about priesthood or religious always have a special place in my heart life and I have to attribute that to being sur- Then why not consider joining? rounded by its beauty for so long and by You would be working with young people so many people who really live out the in schools and parishes, developing your message of Walsingham in their lives. gifts such as in music, drama, art and Living in community meant that there tech. These are full-time positions, initially was a constant support network through- from September 2020 – July 2021. Food, out the year and that there was always accommodation and a monthly al- someone ready to answer a question lowance are provided. Ideal as a ‘gap about things I didn’t understand. year’. For more information see There was always someone to talk to www.rcdea.org.uk/youth New Norwich youth group n Norwich Deanery is get- ting to know God better. ting a new youth group: Soul Squad’s first meeting will be Thurs- Soul Squad which aims to day, April 30 from 6-8pm at Notre Dame bring youth together to Prep School in Norwich. Hope to see you grow their relationships there! with both God and each other. Soul Squad will Chance to volunteer serve all young people in years 4-6 from n Soul Squad is currently seeking fun-lov- parishes in Norwich, Sheringham, Cromer, ing, faith-filled adults to help in running Wymondham, Dereham, North Walsham, weekly meetings. Anyone aged 16-116 is Costessey, and Poringland, as well as stu- welcome! dents from St Francis Primary School, St A training day for interested volunteers Augustine’s Primary School, and Notre will be held on Sunday, April 26. Dame Prep School. The group will meet Anyone interested in volunteering weekly in Norwich not only for fun, food, should email Emily Murphy at and getting to know each other, but also [email protected]. for prayer, faith-filled discussions, and get- Visit: www.soulsquad.org.uk Page 10 latest online news at: www.rcdea.org.uk Catholic East Anglia / April 2020 reflection Grandmother makes An Easter meditation 100s of dresses for Africa Deacon Peter A 95-year-old Coates from great-grand- Woodbridge, mother from Anna Bayles in her ‘factory’ in Wymondham asks us to pause Wymondham with some of her dresses and meditate on is making the death of our hundreds of Lord in his dresses for monthly reflection. poor girls in Africa and n Were you there when they crucified my Asia. Eldred Lord? Willey My God, why have you abandoned me? reports. He cried again, It is completed! I put my arm around her shoulder and we n She works each stepped away day in her ‘factory’ We watched from the rock – the front room of It was the first time in three days that any her bungalow – respect was shown where the walls The gentleness, love was palpable are covered with The soldiers fell silent photos of children The cross was lowered to the ground, the wearing her beau- rope that held him cut tiful products. The nails removed “God has given The body washed of blood and filth me a gift,” said Anna Bayles, “and They gave him first to her I could not live The Mother of God held her dead son without it.” I knelt beside them Anna asks friends and fellow parish- the clothes The rock became their throne ioners for second-hand pillow cases, go, I am so The others knelt curtains and tablecloths, which she pleased, but I The gentleness, love was palpable turns into colourful, bright dresses. have to ask: The strength was given and we carried him Nothing is wasted. why are the children to the cave. “I do every stitch with lots of love, without I was there when they crucified my Lord! and lots of emotion,” she said. “When clothes in the first place?” Buckfast Abbey Trust Registered Charity number 232497 Anna began her childhood just north of Paris, the ‘Listen,‘Listen, 16th of 18 children. When their home was mymy son’son’ bombed dur- ing the Rule of St Benedict Second World War, the family evacuated to rural Picardy in Vichy France. There was and more. Often she will send them out nothing to buy in the shops at the time, with missionary priests who are living and people were making their own in Norfolk. clothes. A nun called Sister Blandine “They call me Mother Anna in Thai- taught Anna dressmaking. “Faith was land,” she said. “In Africa I am simply very important to our family,” she the Dress Lady.” recalls. So how many has she made alto- At the end of the war she married a gether? British soldier, Jack Bayles, and they “Well, I sent just under 300 to Thai- moved to Wymondham. He became a land, and 300 to Jordan…Oh, I’ve lost Catholic and they settled in the parish. count. What’s the point of counting any- www.buckfast.org.uk/vocation They adopted four children, including way?” [email protected] two, Monique and Jean-Pierre, who Anna goes to Mass during the week came from Africa. when she can, and to the Exposition of One day the founders of an Atttlebor- the Blessed Sacrament on a Tuesday. ough-based charity, the Uganda “As soon as I come home from God calls to us constantly, longing to guide those who yearn for life and desire Support Fund, showed a film in the church I get onto it,” she added. “Seven to see good days into the way of peace. The Rule of Saint Benedict helps us to parish, and Anna asked them if they days a week. I can make a dress in 45 hear God’s voice, in the Holy Scriptures, in the sacred liturgy and in our brothers could use some dresses. The came minutes and a skirt in 20. But I don’t in community. If you are a single man longing to live your Catholic faith in a way round to her bungalow the next day, force myself; it just comes naturally. I and the factory was born. finish about 4pm. I belong to a couple of which brings great joy as it demands the best of you, consider whether God is Anna has now made hundreds of clubs, but I don’t have time to go.” calling you to be a Benedictine monk at Buckfast Abbey. dresses for children in Uganda, Zambia “I need my faith so much,” she con- Please reach out to us, and we will do all we can to help you. and Kenya, Thailand, Jordan, Vietnam cluded, “and I love my church.” Catholic East Anglia / April 2020 follow us on Twitter at: twitter.com/RCEastAnglia Page 11 Invitation to happiness Wells-next-the-Sea parishioner Prisca Hastings has recently returned from the Back: Donal Han- most extraordinary two weeks non (Dereham), Br of her life, volunteering with Deon MOP (volun- teer co-ordinator), the Missionaries of the Poor in Fr Michael Jamaica. Prisca reports. Johnstone, Prisca Hastings (Wells-

nest-the-Sea), Fr n Our group of six volunteers, led by Fr Michael Johnstone, travelled to Jamaica Roach (USA), Kasia Wroblewska to be extra hands in a Religious Commu- Miracles mean nity – the Missionaries of the Poor. The (St John’s Cathedral); Front: missionaries work with the poor, those Mariane Reilly who are crippled, mentally and/or phys- Newman would ically handicapped or old and frail. “The (Costessey), Moira Selvage call to serve the poor is an invitation to happiness “– so says Fr Ho Lung, the (Gorleston). be canonised founder of the Community of Missionar- John Henry Newman is one of the ies of the Poor (MoPs), These words, first The day started very early, with the charge asked – washing and moisturis- great figures on the story of the seen on the back of a volunteer’s T shirt, bell ringing at about 5.30, and once up we ing faces and arms; helping with feeding Christian faith in England. Here is proved to be true. went to the chapel in the Monastery, at meal times; washing floors or putting the final of a brief six-part biogra- Indeed, this fortnight proved to be the along with the Brothers. The Angelus dry washing away; handing out drinks or phy of the new English saint. most extraordinary two weeks of my life. was followed by Morning Prayer, then shaving men, and then simply spending n There is an exhaustive process before Now 75 years old, I was finally able to do Mass and Adoration before the Blessed time with the residents. We were there to anyone is declared a saint. Newman’s what I have longed to be able to do and Sacrament until breakfast. Then it was assist and encourage the Brothers in “cause” was opened in 1958. yet everything about the trip meant mov- off in the minibus, to start work at one of what they do – not tell them how to do it! After a thorough investigation of his life ing outside my comfort zones! the Centres. It was extraordinary being part of what and work by the Congregation for the This started with the challenge of what The brothers in Kingston number was going on – part of several different Causes of Saints in Rome, Newman was to put in the suitcase; then the prospect about 150, all at different stages of forma- communities – the Brothers, the Sisters, declared “Venerable” in 1991. of a ten-hour flight; of sleeping in bunk tion – a period of some ten years being employed workers, the other groups of This meant he had shown “heroic beds in a dormitory, and getting up at the usual time before a young man com- volunteers, the residential communities virtue” as a Christian and could be vener- 5.30am every day, with no hot water to mits himself for life, by Solemn or Final - with the overall goal of living together ated by the faithful. If any miracles could use, except from a kettle; plus travelling Vows. The five centres we visited – one peaceably and caring for one another. It be attributed to his intercession, then he and working with strangers. No red now run by the Sisters of Missionaries of is indeed “love in action”. The desperate could be “beatified”. wine for two weeks. Plus the heat! the Poor– are home to some 300 - 400 resi- level of poverty disability and damage Jack Sullivan, a student for the dia- So many unknown challenges to face, dents – homeless, handicapped weighed heavily on me, while the tender- conate from Boston, Massachusetts, had and yet it proved to be the most reward- (physically and/or mentally), amputees, ness and joy and brightness in some severe back pain which was caused by ing and peace and joy-filled time I have HIV patients, abandoned, or traumatised residents’ eyes was really encouraging the vertebrae in his lower back turning had to date. individuals, and many, so many, mute! and heart-warming. inwards and squeezing his spinal cord. On arrival, we found we were housed From small babies to the very elderly! It seems to me from this visit that Mis- Surgery had not helped. in a Monastery of the Brothers of the Some of our group had been in previ- sion not Maintenance is vital for the Sullivan prayed through the interces- MoPs, secured behind high walls. And ous years, the others like me were church to thrive – serving the poor has to sion of John Henry Newman: 'Please we discovered that each morning we first-timers; and we shared our volun- be at the heart of all we do. I appreciate Cardinal Newman help me to walk so that were to be transported by minibus to one teering with groups from the USA who, there are all sorts of poverty – physical, I can return to classes and be ordained'. of five different ‘Centres’ housing the like us, varied in age. As far as I know, financial, emotional, spiritual and intel- He was cured. people cared for by the Community. Each the youngest among us was 14 and the lectual – and that list is not exhaustive, In 2010 Pope Benedict beatified New- of these residences, too, is secured eldest 86. In addition, youngsters from and we all suffer some degree of poverty. man during his visit to the UK. Deacon behind high walls. For all these proper- local schools visited as part of their com- Only by serving the poor among whom Jack Sullivan read the Gospel at the ties and activities are situated in ‘The munity service. Our work consisted we find ourselves do we stand a chance of Mass in Cofton Park, Birmingham. Ghetto’ – the slum and ‘bandit’ area of simply in being additional pairs of shining with the light of Christ to a sad, To be declared a saint another miracle Kingston, the Capital of Jamaica. hands, doing whatever the Brother in unbelieving world. is required. Melissa Villalobos of Chicago was pregnant, but her placenta had become detached from her uterine wall. She We must speak for the voiceless developed a sub chronic hematoma, which is a blood clot in the foetal mem- brane. She started to bleed uncontrollably. Doctors said she would poor. Rather, we are obligated to share The Third Principle of likely have a miscarriage. everything with all of God’s children. St She collapsed in her bathroom, bleed- Catholic Social Teaching is Ambrose says, “You are not making a gift ing. She was unable to move to reach a the Preferential Option for of your possessions to the poor person. phone. You are handing over to them what is the Poor writes Jacinta In her own words: “Then I said, ‘Please, theirs… The world is given to all, and not Cardinal Newman, make the bleeding Goode – as demonstrated by only to the rich.” So much food for stop.’ Those were my exact words. Just Oscar Romero. thought here! This could well be another then, as soon as I finished the sentence, spoke of this response in The Common article at another time, but I invite you to the bleeding stopped.” She got off the n On March 24, 1980, the Archbishop of Good. They said, “In the poor, we see the consider how we can all share God’s gift floor and verified there was no more San Salvador, Oscar Romero, gave his life suffering face of Christ. The poor are not of this beautiful world with every one of bleeding and said, “‘Thank you, Cardinal for the poor of his country. He was shot a burden. They are our brothers and sis- His children. Newman. Thank you.’ Just then the scent and killed at the altar whilst celebrating ters.” “The least of these,” then, are the And if the world doesn’t want to share? of roses filled the bathroom, the strongest Mass, falling at the foot of a huge crucifix. poor and we must treat them as we would “It is our solemn duty to speak out scent of roses I’ve ever smelled.” He had become the outspoken voice of treat Christ himself. against,” injustices in the distribution of “I thought to myself in that moment, ‘Oh the voiceless poor and oppressed and he The Bishops in America teach us of the wealth, teaches Pope Paul VI in Populo- my goodness! My baby is OK. I’m OK. My paid the ultimate price. consequences of extreme poverty. In rum Progressio (#53). This is precisely four children are OK. We’re all OK.’ And I Jesus tells us in Luke 6:20, “Happy are Economic Justice for All (#88), they say, what St Oscar Romero did. He said, “The said, ‘Thank you, Cardinal Newman,’” you who are poor: yours is the kingdom of “The 'option for the poor' is not an adver- Word of God is like the light of the sun. It That afternoon Villalobos’ cure was con- God.” In his message for World Day of sarial slogan that pits one group or class illuminates beautiful things, but also things firmed during a weekly ultrasound. The the Poor in 2019, Pope Francis talks against another. Rather it states that the which we would rather not see.” When doctor told her everything was “perfect” about God establishing his kingdom, deprivation and powerlessness of the poor our eyes are opened to the injustices of and there was no more hole in the pla- which he then entrusts to us. It is our re- wounds the whole community. … These this world, God calls us to speak out. centa. sponsibility, then, to care for the poor. wounds will be healed only by greater soli- “Those who have a voice must speak for This cure was recognised as a miracle In Matthew’s Gospel (25:40), we hear darity with the poor.” those who are voiceless.” (Oscar Romero) and has led to his canonisation. Jesus telling us that we will be judged by So, what is our response to “the least of It may cost us our earthly life, as it did St St John Henry Newman – pray for us. our response to “the least of these”. The these” to be? St Ambrose gives us a clue. Oscar Romero – and Jesus - but at what www.newmancanonisation.com Bishops of England & Wales, in 1996, It is not enough for us simply to give to the cost if we don’t? Page 12 latest online news at: www.rcdea.org.uk Catholic East Anglia / April 2020

News picture gallery from parishes around the Diocese

n St John’s Cathedral recently held a thank-you event for some of its many volunteers. More than 60 parish- ioners enjoyed lunch in the Narthex and were thanked by Canon David Paul for their great contribution to parish life. Just some of the jobs done are cleaning the cathe- dral, arranging flowers, stewarding at Mass and working in the shop. More than 1 in 10 of regular Mass-goers volunteers in some way in the parish, a figure which is the envy of many other cathedrals across the country. In fact, there are so many volunteers that they could not all be accommodated and another event is being planned.

n Acle Churches Together held its traditional annual prayer walk on Sunday March 1, stop- ping at significant community locations in the East Norfolk village to recognise and pray for the work done by the staff within each build- ing. The walk was led by Church of England rector Rev Martin Greenland, Methodist min- ister Rev Andrew King and Catholic Deacon Rev Peter Glanville, a retired BBC producer who conceived the original idea of the walk about 16 years ago as a useful tool to encour- age a spirit of ecumenism among the villagers. A cross-section of denominations joined together to recite appropriate prayers outside St.Edmund's church, the Police Station, the Old Rectory, the Veterinary Hospital, the Academy, the Cemetery, the Recreation Cen- tre, the Medical Centre, the Library and finally the Methodist Church, where welcome refreshments were served in a very convivial atmosphere. Pictured below, front left to right, Andrew King, Martin Greenland, Peter Glanville. n Bishop Alan, pictured above, celebrated his 76th birthday on St Patrick’s Day, March 17. Staff from the Diocesan Curia offices in Poringland put on a small buffet lunch for him followed by lemon drizzle birthday cake.

n The Knitting Club at St Philip Howard Church, Cam- bridge, has had an amazingly productive 18 months reports Maureen Harper. Since March 2018 they have delivered nine sacks of cot blankets, baby jackets and hats to the Rosie Neo-Natal Unit at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge. They have also sent 33 sacks of blankets and children's clothes to Knit for Peace, which is based in London, and which deliv- ers knitted goods to homes for the elderly, mother and baby refuges and hospitals in the UK and Syria. Also five sacks of donated teenage jeans and shirts, and 32 large blankets, to Hope and Aid Direct, which takes goods and blankets overland to refugee camps in Lesbos and other Greek islands. The next convoy goes at the end of October. Last Christ- mas they supplied the local Shoe Box Appeal with children's hats and scarves, and will do the same next Christmas. In the last two years they sent a total of 156 jumpers for children up to six years old, to the Holy Family Creche in Bethlehem, which takes in abandoned children of all faiths. Picture by Fr Philip John.