FREE www.catholicvoiceoTancaster.co.uk

The ONcial Newspaper to Inside this month: p8 Vocation! the Diocese of Lancaster p2 Some Hesitated Issue 218 + April 2010 p6 Being a Young Catholic Today

“Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I give you strength, truly I help you. ” (Isaiah 41:10) Illustration byElizabeth Wang, ‘The descent of the Holy Spirit on the apostles and Mary at Pentecost’, R U READY copyright © Radiant Light 2010, www.radiantlight.org.uk to answer God’s Call? he image of the apostles in the upper room cowering, afraid vocation. The better you know Jesus, the more Tand unsure as to what they must now do, is one of great His mystery attracts you.” relevance for so many young men today. So also is the culmination of this event – when Tames of Sre came upon them, Seminaries are abundant with people from all walks of life, all with the Holy Spirit dwelt within them and they had the courage to go their own personal vocation stories. Some will come to realise in the out as witnesses to Christ. That step which the apostles took Srst couple of years that this isn’t their vocation in life, whilst others doesn’t seem to be quite as straightforward to those whom the enter formation unsure or without much conSdence and soon Lord calls forth in this day and age. There seems to be no become aware that they are being pointed in the direction of straightforward answer as to why. ordination. “Taste and see that the Lord is good, How blessed are those who take refuge in him” (Psalm 34:8). So many people pray unceasingly for an increase in vocations to the Priesthood; vocations promoters, directors and so many One of the greater barriers that many put up in front of themselves other individuals are fervent in their encouragement to young men. However, great comfort should be taken from Jesus’ Continued on Page 5 promise to always provide shepherds for his Tock.

Many times throughout His ministry Jesus had to reassure His own disciples, “Do not be afraid” , they often lacked the faith and conviction to wholeheartedly enter into the mission Jesus had for them. Peter was often the worst oRender “Peter took fright and began to sink” , (Matthew 14:22-23), yet we know that he was successfully entrusted with being the rock which the Church was build upon. If the very Srst disciples of Christ, who were there and saw all he did and said, were afraid to follow their vocation in life, it is no wonder many men 2000 years on can struggle to embrace their vocation from God. However, just as the disciples were strengthened when they most needed the love and guidance of Christ, so are those called to Priesthood – the Spirit is already directing their “whole being, spirit, soul and body” , and it is only through discernment that they will come to see whether or not they are being called to a Priestly Vocation.

Seminary formation is designed to bring you closer to God, to help you hear and understand the plan he has for your life. Many people are scared or worried about committing themselves, however the discernment process puts no pressure upon young men, more so it is tailored to help the individual work out whether Priesthood is what God is asking of them. The Holy Father speaks of these years as: “...a time of journeying, of exploration, but above all of discovering Christ. It is only when a young man has had a personal experience of Christ that he can truly understand the Lord’s will and consequently his own 2 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + April 2010 www.catholicvoiceoSancaster.co.uk

BISHOP’S COLUMN EDITORIAL fter what seems to have been a long winter the spring ebruary 2010 marked another dark chapter in the erosion ATowers are beginning to appear. The gentle snowdrops Fof religious liberty in this country while also providing and colourful crocuses can be seen in gardens and parks, and more evidence of the increasing unpopularity, at the national we await those sure golden heralds of springtime to brighten level, of the ’s moral authority and teaching. up the longer days - daRodils. The snow and the frost reigned supreme for so long, holding everything in its tight frigid grip. Having said this, at the local level nothing could be further from the But isn’t nature remarkable in its power of recuperation and truth, with over Sfty of our Diocesan Primary schools enthusiastically rebirth! As Gerard Manley Hopkins the Jesuit poet wrote, ‘Deep accepting the Diocese’s new engaging and faithful sex education down there is the dearest freshness in things.’ programme, This is my body.

I like to think that the world of nature in some way mirrors our However, returning to the national arena, the Labour Government spiritual lives. There may not seem to be much happening on the won a majority for the third reading of its Children, Schools and surface, or at least we may not be aware of it, but deep within our Families Bill which will make it compulsory that Catholic secondary hearts, in the core of our being, the Spirit of God is constantly active, schools teach 15 years olds that: tilling the soil and giving growth. We could describe the Holy Spirit as God’s gardener who gently ploughs and creates the furrows that • Homosexuality is ‘normal and harmless’ (Rt. Hon. Ed Balls). in good time will yield a rich harvest. While the Church cannot accept such a positive aUrmation Contact us of homosexuality, she recognises that people suRering from The Catholic Voice of Lancaster Of course we must play our own part and the homosexual condition must be accepted with respect, is published on the last Sunday of the provide the soil for the divine ploughman to compassion and sensitivity, and all forms of ‘unjust’ month previous to publication date. till, and that is what we try to do in Lent with discrimination should be avoided. (Catechism of the Catholic our eRorts at prayer, penance and good works. Church, 2357). The Catholic Voice of Lancaster is As we strive to love God and our neighbour in • The importance of civil partnerships; published by it’s owners. The Trustees the day to day routine, let us enjoy the • How and where children under the age of consent can access of the Roman Catholic Diocese of lovely days of Easter with which God contraception and abortion services. Lancaster, a registered charity, graces us as our spiritual springtime (No. 234331), and is wholly independent and the season of eternal hope. The Bill does, grudgingly, allow Catholic schools to teach the moral of and separate from, any previous +Michael Campbell OSA, of Lancaster doctrine of the Church on these issues but only as one opinion newspaper published by or on behalf among other opinions, thereby denying us the right to teach the fundamental principal of objective moral absolutes. of the diocese. BY THE WAY… This Bill, if it becomes law, forces Catholic secondary schools and EDITOR: Catholic teachers to promote immoral behaviour to children, and to Edwina Gillett Some Hesitated co-operate in the facilitation of evil acts. There are no provisions in 01253 736630 / 07969 967268 this Bill for a Catholic teacher to conscientiously object to delivering [email protected] “She did not recognize him” (Jn 20:14). this content. It could be argued that a teacher who doesn’t have www.catholicvoiceoTancaster.co.uk “Something prevented them from recognizing him” (Lk 24:15). problems, in conscience, could instead deliver it to children, but then “Some hesitated” (Mt. 28:18). what are they doing teaching in a in the Srst place! ADVERTISING: Nick Layton / CathCom Ltd. he Srst thing it tells you is that they weren’t expecting him It also contravenes a fundamental principal of Catholic education 020 7112 6710 T– not alive, anyway! It’s expressed more extremely in that parents have the primary responsibility for the education of [email protected] Thomas’ stance of downright disbelief. So don’t give space to their children – a role which is ‘irreplaceable and inalienable and, www.cathcom.org people who tell you that the disciples concocted a conspiracy therefore, incapable of being entirely delegated to others or usurped by to promote a story of a Risen Lord. Actually, far from others.’ (PontiRcal Council for the Family, The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality). Under current legislation, parents have the right to DESIGN & LAYOUT: combining to shape a deception, they seem to have been at withdraw their child from sex and relationship education (SRE) Rob Hotchkiss / Hot Creative sixes and sevens, reacting to events as they hit them. [email protected] classes up until the age of 19. But the bill will lower that to 15. www.hot-creative.co.uk The second thing is the mystery of Jesus’ risen appearance (is The Catholic Voice of Lancaster believes that this is yet another ‘presence’ a better word?) . He’s there, in front of their eyes, but at Srst disturbing example of the creeping totalitarianism that is raising its PUBLISHED BY: they don’t realize who it is. Intriguing, isn’t it? There’s something so ugly head in this country. Not long ago this Labour government CathCom Ltd. diRerent about Jesus in his Risen life; what is it? Maybe at last they prohibited Catholic adoption agencies from abiding by the moral 2/4 Church Street, Steeple Bumpstead, were looking – as far as people can on earth – at totally transformed teaching of the Church, and now they are in the process of stopping Haverhill, CB9 7DG humanity, the perfect Man (Eph. 4:13). Human life, human nature, Catholic schools from upholding the Church’s teaching on sexual 0870 228 4266 made perfect in its union with the divine. In him it always had been, morality. What is next? www.cathcom.org but now it could be shown. After all, his is the Gospel of Life, fullness, beauty, truth, goodness. It comes from the power and radiance of What is even more disturbing is that Ed Balls, the government the Spirit in him: “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life” (Jn 14:6). And, Minister responsible for the Bill expressed his gratitude on BBC since his Rising from the dead, that same power of risen life has Radio 4 to Catholic institutions for their support of his bill. “To have been producing such superhuman things in countless saints (known Articles to: the support of the Catholic Church…in these changes is, I think, very, and unknown), and continues now – in us, patiently transforming us [email protected] very important, is a huge step forward.” and the world. So stand up straight, be bold. You have access to the The Catholic Voice of Lancaster Snds it impossible to believe that any Risen Lord and his strength of life. “There is nothing I cannot master one representing the Catholic Church in this country would assist with the help of the One who gives me strength.” (Phil 4:13). We have Letters to: the Labour government in imposing such draconian legislation on so much to contribute to the world. [email protected] our schools. It not only runs completely contrary to our beliefs on such a sensitive area as a child’s moral development, but also Our faith, our religion, is full of life – and fun at times, too! The egg is completely ignores the Holy Father’s recent advice to the Church in a symbol of new life, as the chick breaks out; so it’s a symbol of the this country: VoiceXtra: One who bursts forth from the tomb. A childhood memory is of Dad [email protected] preparing Easter eggs. He could boil them and then paint faces or scenes on them, of course. But the procedure that seemed even more artistic was using onion skins (beautiful patterns) , daRodil heads (giving strong colour) , other plants or natural elements ‘Yet as you have rightly pointed out, the eKect of Postal Address: (not poisonous, because colour can run into the egg) , and scraps of some of the legislation designed to achieve this coloured material (not dye-fast) . He’d arrange the egg with these FAO Edwina Gillett goal has been to impose unjust limitations on the 99 Commonside, Ansdell, bits around it, and wrap the whole thing in a piece Lytham St. Annes FY8 4DJ of cloth, tying that around the egg to hold freedom of religious communities to act in everything in place for the boiling. To make, say, a cross on the egg, he’d include coloured ribbon in accordance with their beliefs. In some respects If possible, please send articles for the pack, set in the desired shape. The eggs had to it actually violates the natural law upon which publication on CD or by email. Otherwise be hard-boiled, of course, but on a long very gentle the equality of all human beings is grounded and please type double spacing or write very boil, to avoid cracking. clearly. Last date for copy is the LAST by which it is guaranteed. I urge you as Pastors DAY of the month prior to publication. They make attractive little gifts. We children to ensure that the Church’s moral teaching be rolled them on Easter Mondays. As with always presented in its entirety and Photographs will be returned if you “cheggies” , we competed to see whose egg remember to put your name and address remained unbroken longest… convincingly defended. on the back of each and enclose suitable Christ is Risen! Happy Easter! stamped and self-addressed packaging. Fr. Bob Horn, Christ the King Blackpool ’ Pope Benedict XVI www.catholicvoiceoSancaster.co.uk April 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 3

World WorldWorld WorldWorld WorldWorldWorld Global Soundbites

“Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places close to home...Such are the places where every man, woman, and child seeks equal justice, equal opportunity, equal dignity, without discrimination” Eleanor Roosevelt Catholics and Muslims issue The Charity Tribunal rejected Leeds Canadian Diocese plans Fr. Bob Remark, one of the priests involved declaration against religious violence: appeal last year to maintain the teaching ‘confessional blitz’ : in the Diocese of London campaign of the Church, which forbids adoption of commented, ‘It’s an opportunity for Vatican and Muslim representatives children to same-sex couples, saying such The Diocese of London, Ontario, freedom, for a fresh experience of God’s signed a joint declaration against the a rule violated homosexuals' right to equal undertook a ‘confessional blitz’ on March compassion and mercy and love. It really manipulation of religion at their recent protection. 3rd with priests in 120 parishes sets people free. It’s a wonderful gift.’ meeting at Cairo. The joint committee scheduling time for confessions on that (CWN & Windsor Star) examined the theme: “The phenomenon Roche, Rawsthorne and Drainey date. The diocese distributed 100,000 of confessional violence: understanding the issued a joint letter that was read out in all Tyers explaining the program and phenomenon and its causes, and proposing their parishes explaining their position: providing instructions on making a good Illustration by solutions with particular reference to the confession. As one of the organisers Elizabeth Wang, The Father in heaven greets role of religions in this Reld”. “Despite the fact that Catholic Care has been explained, “Some people call it the forgotten with delight a humble able to Rnd caring families for a vast number sacrament. This gives them a starting point confession of weakness by one of His trusting 'children' At the end of the meeting, the of needy children, we are being invited either rather than showing up to a church and copyright © participants agreed on the following to stop our adoption work or stop being a saying, ‘I don’t really know what to do.’” Radiant Light 2010, recommendations: “to pay greater Catholic charity altogether. Our position is www.radiantlight.org.uk attention to the fact that the manipulation that it is in the interests of children to The program was inspired by the success of religion for political or other ends can be continue our work. of a Lenten drive to encourage a source of violence; to avoid discrimination confessions last year in the Archdiocese on the basis of religious identity; to open If Catholic Care is forced to close its of Washington, DC, which launched its hearts to mutual forgiveness and adoption service…We believe that this is a own immensely popular campaign called reconciliation, which is a necessary condition legally justiRable position to take and that it ‘The Light Is On’ in 2007. Those involved for peaceful and fruitful coexistence”. is a reasonable response to a legitimate end. in that original campaign report that It is children who will lose an eQective and people came back to confession who They also called “for similarities to be well respected resource in the Yorkshire hadn’t been to confession for 20 to recognised and diQerences respected as the region.” (Lifesite News) 30 years. prerequisite of a culture of dialogue, based on shared values; for both sides again to commit themselves to recognising and respecting the dignity of each human being, without distinction of ethnicity or religion; Capital Venture for religious discrimination in all Relds to be opposed (just laws should guarantee fundamental equality); for ideals of justice, eacon John McCann of the Good Shepherd and St Mary’s, solidarity and co-operation to be promoted DMorecambe, is one of a team of 29 runners aiming to in order to ensure a peaceful and raise over £57,000 for the Jesuit Missions overseas prosperous life for everyone”. development project.

Finally, the members of the joint John will compete in the London marathon and his personal aim committee called for steps to be taken is to raise at least £1,500 through sponsorship to help provide “to ensure that the preaching of religious electricity (costing £4,000 a year) for an orphanage. leaders, as well as school education and Johannesburg and Pretoria continue to be the destination for textbooks, do not contains declarations or most forced migrants entering South Africa. Competing against references to historical events that, directly xenophobia and living in extreme poverty many refugees are or indirectly, may arouse violent reactions vulnerable to exploitation. Orphans form a particularly among the followers of diQerent religions”. vulnerable group. (Vatican) The Jesuits have set up Arrupe House as a safe-haven for these Last UK Catholic Adoption Agency children, who also have access to schooling whilst resident there. goes to High Court: The house has not had electricity for over a year and Fr. David Holcroft SJ is desperate to The last Catholic adoption agency in the restore the power. Having UK to resist equality laws forcing electricity and hot water would acceptance of homosexual adoption will substantially improve the appeal this week to the High Court to quality of life of the children. secure its right to exemption, with the “This is important work as we backing of Bishop Arthur Roche of Leeds, attempt to set these young Bishop John Rawsthorne of Hallam and people up with a future that they Bishop of Middlesbrough. would not otherwise be able to access” said Fr David. Catholic Care (Leeds) is the last of 11 Catholic adoption agencies to Sght the If you would like to support this Sexual Orientation Regulations (SORs) of worthy venture please can you 2007. Catholic Care (Lancaster) voted to send donations (cheques made accept homosexual adoption in 2009, payable to ‘Jesuit Missions’) to: against the advice of Bishop O’Donoghue, Deacon John McCann, and as a consequence is no longer St Mary’s, Matthias St; considered a Catholic charity by the Diocese. Morecambe LA 4 5JR. 4 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + April 2010 www.catholicvoiceoSancaster.co.uk DioceseDioceseDioceAroundse Diocesethe DioceseDioceseDiocese DioceDiocesese Own yer bike! School test drives national cycle project

Preston school is test driving a pilot project which promises a “wheel-y” good Areturn for pupils! Christ the King Catholic School, has been selected as the Srst school in the country to team up with I Cycle Training and oRer students the new ‘Bikeability’ scheme.

The Srst six children to sign up for the supervised sessions have been issued with damaged bikes, which they will get to keep once repairs and road tests have been carried out to national standards.

Ian Gibbs, of I Cycle Training , said: “Our aim is not just to get kids interested in cycling, but to also get them owning their own bikes. But they have to work at it Rrst and that’s why it’s a great scheme - everyone stands to win. The bikes, which are donated either by individuals or the police, form part of a weekly repair scheme at school. We act as supervisors while the pupils carry out the necessary repairs. We have strong links with Christ the King, as we already provide cycle training to pupils and sponsor the helmets in the cycle club, so it was an obvious choice to start here. Depending on its success and how well it is received, we hope to roll the scheme out at other schools throughout Lancashire in the future.”

Ian (back right) and colleague John Mulligan are pictured with Year 8 pupils Ashley Roach, Simran Singh, Ryan Stubbs, Sami Sattar, Liam Fewery and David May. Catenian Valentines Evening

Brother President of Blackpool and the Rodney Webb was enrolled as a Brother of Fylde Circle Kevin Hanavan seen here Fleetwood Circle. For those who do not enjoying the company of two of our Ladies know who the Catenians are, they are a Molly Ince and Jose Gleeson, at our recent group of business and professional men. Valentines Evening, which followed a joint If you wish to know more contact Pat meeting with Fleetwood Circle at which Mr Dempsey, telephone 01253 500095.

Bishop Michael visits Carnforth

e were very fortunate to welcome Bishop Michael Campbell to our school, Our WLady of Lourdes, Carnforth on the 4th March.

The weather couldn’t have been better as Following the assembly he met parents the Bishop was shown around the school and governors and joined the governors by the members of the School Council. He and staR for lunch. We are all very grateful visited our open air prayer space, blessed to the Bishop for making time to visit our our new prayer room, saw all the work school, to see how hard everyone was going on in all the classrooms and took working, and to pray with us. part in our whole school assembly. (Rebecca Parker, Teacher) Cathedral Corner

ike many parishes, the Cathedral has Each year the priests of the Diocese of Lweekly Exposition for vocations to Lancaster gather round the Bishop at the the priesthood and religious life. Each Cathedral for the Chrism Mass on Maundy week we use a diocesan prayer for Thursday. At this and other celebrations vocations, which begins by recalling each year the Cathedral welcomes many how Jesus called His disciples to leave priests, and it is always encouraging to their nets and follow Him. see them gathered together. These gatherings help us to see the importance The Cathedral’s patron, St Peter, was one not of any individual priest, but of the of those Srst disciples; the scene of his priesthood itself. By this gift Christ oRers calling is depicted in one of our stained us the sacraments and so sustains our glass windows. Just as those Srst lives of faith. Later this month the disciples were called by the waters of the Cathedral will host a Mass for the ‘Year for Sea of Galilee, so today all who are called Priests’ for the local deanery, and this will by Christ become His followers by the give us another opportunity to celebrate waters of baptism. Similarly, some of the this gift and to pray for vocations. Srst disciples were chosen by Christ to Hopefully Pope Benedict’s visit to the UK take on the special role of Apostle, just later this year will provide further as today, from the members of the encouragement to those whom God is Church, God calls some to be priests or calling to serve the Church in this unique enter religious life. and wonderful way. www.catholicvoiceoSancaster.co.uk April 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 5 DioceseAroundDioceseDiocethese Diocese DiDioceseoceseDiocese Living the Word DioceseDiocese

ur Lady Star of the Sea, St. OAnnes has hosted a very World Youth Day successful series of talks on ‘The Church’s Social Teaching’. he Day will be celebrated in all the old, poor and rich; He loves us even when we dioceses of the world on Palm turn our backs on Him”. The Snal speaker will be Most Rev. T Sunday 28 March, has as its theme this “The awareness that ... Christ loves everyone , Archbishop of CardiR year: “Good Teacher, what must I do to A message and always ... enables us to overcome any who will talk on ‘The Common Good’ inherit eternal life?” trial: ... sins, suQering or discouragement. In on Thursday 15th April at 7.30pm in from Pope this love lies the source of all Christian life the Centre. Extracts from the Message are Benedict. and the fundamental reason for evangelisation; given below: Speakers have included Rt. Hon John Battle who talked about the for if we have truly found Jesus, we cannot “The present 25th Youth Day represents a politics of basic caring communities from his experiences in but bear witness to Him to those people who stage on the journey towards the next World Inner City West Leeds; Susy Brouad from CAFOD who talked on have not yet encountered His gaze”. Youth Day, which will take place in August what our Christian faith teaches us about options for the poor; 2011 in Madrid, Spain, where I hope many Fr Joe Brown SDB who talked on the time he was in the civil war in We Have Need of You of you will come to experience that event of Liberia for 14 years; Francis Davis from La Casas Institute who “Young people today Rnd themselves facing grace. To prepare ourselves for this gave a personal reTection on the topical questions of race, many problems arising from unemployment, celebration, I would like to suggest some British identity, and the Church’s role in building the common and from the lack of solid ideals, and of reSections on this year's theme: “Good good, and Bruce Kent who talked about steps towards the concrete prospects for the future. ...Despite Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal abolition of war. the diTculties, do not let yourselves be life?”, taken from the Gospel account of discouraged and do not give up your dreams! Mgr. Canon Aidan Turner said Jesus' meeting with the rich young man, a Rather, cultivate great desires of fraternity, topic already considered in 1985 by Pope justice and peace in your hearts. The future John Paul II in a most beautiful Letter, is in the hands of people who know how to addressed to young people for the Rrst time”. seek and discover powerful reasons for life ‘We have been delighted at the response to and hope” these talks. They have certainly generated a Jesus Meets a Young Man “In my recent Encyclical 'Caritas in Veritate' “The Gospel narrative eQectively expresses on integral human development, I listed great deal of interest in social teaching. At Jesus' great concern for young people. ... His Good Teacher, some of the great modern challenges, which each meeting there is an opportunity to ask desire is to meet with you personally and what must I are urgent and essential for the life of this establish a dialogue with each one of you”. do to inherit world: the use of the resources of the earth, questions and discuss the issues raised. respect for ecology, the just division of Admission is free and we would be delighted Jesus Looked at Him and Loved Him eternal life? wealth, the control of Rnancial mechanisms, to see as many people there as possible. “In the evangelical narrative, St. Mark solidarity with poor countries, ... the struggle stresses how 'Jesus looking at him, loved against hunger in the world, the promotion him'. The Lord's gaze was at the core of that of the dignity of human work, service to the very special encounter, and of all Christian culture of life, the building of peace Further details, including directions to the Parish Centre experience. In fact, Christianity is not between peoples, inter-religious dialogue, ’(a two minute walk from the church) can be found at the Our Lady primarily an ethic, but an experience of Jesus and the correct use of the social Star of the Sea Church website: www.ourladystarofthesea.co.uk Christ Who loves us personally, young and communications media”. President’s Day Mass & Lunch

arstang Catenians held their annual President's Day Mass and lunch on Sunday, G14th February. Holy Mass, which preceded the lunch, was celebrated at St. Thomas the Apostle, Claughton-on-Brock.

An excellent lunch followed and this was attended by 70 diners at the Garstang Country Hotel, which included Catenians and their ladies from Province 10, local clergy, widows of past Garstang Circle members, and principal guests Grand President of the Catenian Association Joe McNally and his wife, Philomena. (Tom Rigby, Garstang Secretary)

Continued on Front Page R U READY to answer God’s Call? “God’s chosen instrument may revolves around issues of unworthiness and ability. The late Cardinal Basil Hume described it as “a dismaying gap between well have many personal what we know ourselves to be and what the priesthood demands of us.” Such demands upon our human nature such as failings; the chief celibacy, conSdence in authoritative public speaking, interpersonal skills and a comprehensive knowledge of the faith are all dealt with and encouraged throughout training requirement however is a for each person as an individual. When we think back to Pentecost, we can see there that the Holy Spirit will always be willingness to let God work with us to guide and protect us. If you do feel there is a possibility that God is calling you to priesthood, open up your through us. (Cardinal Basil Hume) heart and pray for the Lord to give you strength, encouragement and direction in your life. See page 8 for more on vocations (Matthew Tomlinson, Seminarian, ” Allen Hall London) and contact information. 6 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + April 2010 www.catholicvoiceoSancaster.co.uk

Being a Young Catholic Today My faith has opened my eyes

i my name is Amelia HRock, I’m 18 years old from Wrexham, Young People – a gift to be shared North Wales, and I am currently doing my gap year at Castlerigg ancaster Diocese was represented in February at the Srst National Congress Manor. For me being a Lfacilitated by a new organisation called CYMFed*. Volunteers from Preston, Catholic is a very new Whitehaven and Carlisle attended the day which had the theme “HOPE”. thing. As a child I was never brought up in a Catholic environment my The day was spent listening to international are not a problem to be solved, but a gift to be dad was baptized Anglican and my speakers with a vast knowledge of Youth shared” and many stories and examples mum was born Jewish, and so my Ministry and the Church. Speakers from the encouraged those listening to Snd joy in the faith wasn’t a big part of my life. equivalent of CYMFed in the USA shared privilege of walking aside young people in their experience and observations of what is their (and our) faith journey. Much Bob Mcarty, Maggie Mcarty, Archbishop , At the age of 8 I changed primary happening within our Church today in discussion focussed on the need to Fr Timothy RatcliQe, Christopher Jamieson, David Wells. school to a Church of England one, I relation to young people and gave us reintroduce our young people to what loved it there, and at the age of 10 I guidelines of where we need to be and what essentially makes us Catholic and to “have decided I wanted to get christened, we need to be thinking about. Abbot conRdence that we have something the world Sndings of this research and explore ways in my parents didn’t baptize me to any Christopher Jamieson helped explore the is hungry for” (David Wells). which it will inform our work with young people. faith when I was a baby as they newly released research which has looked at wanted to let me choose. And so the minds, hopes and intentions of those The research launched at the Congress *CYMFed is the Federation for Catholic Youth who identify themselves (or not) as “Young explores the groupings of young Catholics Ministry in England and Wales and is made starting high school, I ended up going Catholics” today. Fr Timothy RatcliRe, OP today and explores their sense of identity up of representatives from each Diocese. to Chester Catholic High School, encouraged us to share our Hope and and level of commitment to both faith and The aim of CYMFed is to give a because my best friend was going. pointed out the basic elements of our work the church. Copies are voice at local level to work going with young people is to “give them space and available from the Youth on in parishes, schools and Through my life and especially give of yourself” . Archbishop Vincent Service at the address below Dioceses feeding into the through high school I have had a Nichols concluded the day with an address or can be ordered directly national picture by advising on passion for drama and the performing to all delegates, thanking all for their from http://www.cymfed.org/ Youth Ministry issues to arrange arts and I really wanted to pursue this commitment to young people. anyone wishing to Snd out of bodies, including the Bish - into a career, at this time in my life I more about this, please email ops’ Conference. With plans to knew nothing could get in the way The day provided a fantastic opportunity to [email protected] use the research of this. come together with others around the presented at the conference to country to share an enthusiasm for working Plans are being put in place to inform our decisions within At the age of 13 my mum passed away with young people. As it was clearly stated organise a Diocesan Day oRering Youth Ministry, the future is which basically changed my life on more than one occasion “young people the opportunity to reTect on the exciting and full of potential. completely, the small amount of faith I did have was lost. And then at the age of 14 I got oRered World Youth Day in Madrid to go on retreat to Castlerigg Manor, I didn’t know anything about it apart from my best friend was going, and so Over the time we spent with the family we pilgrimage across the city to Randwick I went. From the day I got oR the formed a real emotional bond, and it was racecourse, where along with the other coach at Castlerigg up until now, my diTcult for us to leave. For me the family 500,000 pilgrims, we took part in a candlelit life again has changed dramatically. were an amazing example of Christian vigil with the Pope and camped out under values in action. Strangers in their home, we the stars. The scale of the event, and the I found a deeper faith; I discovered n 1 March, the Youth Service God’s love, God’s compassion and were treated with the trust and love of one sheer number of people, with all the pilgrims Olaunched its preparations for World of their own children. Moving on from together in one place, was incredible. God’s forgiveness. From the many Youth Day. If you are a young person times I visited Castlerigg as a young Melbourne, we Sew to Sydney for the week The following morning there was a Mass over the age of 18 by August 2011, why of oTcial World Youth Day events. As soon with the Pope to mark the completion of the person I could feel my life rebuilding, not join our diocesan group. We will be Castlerigg has helped me so much as we arrived in Sydney, the atmosphere was festival, and the announcement of the spending a week in the Basque country absolutely electric. People from every location of the next World Youth Day in develop as a young person and now a (Pamplona) with Spanish families before young adult. And then last year at the corner of the globe were out in the streets, Madrid. The entire trip was something which heading to Rome with over one million singing, dancing and playing instruments. deRnitely strengthened my faith, and I am age of 17, I got conSrmed into the other young people from across the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil certain that the other pilgrims would agree it globe to celebrate our faith and life with was a life-changing experience. which was amazing. Pope Benedict. You will now notice the diocese starting to Now my faith has really opened my Daniel Cullen (19), from Grimsargh, advertise for the next World Youth Day, eyes to the beauty of the Church and shares his experiences of the last World which is taking place in Madrid, next year. the love that God has for each of us. Youth Day in Australia. He writes, ‘After This time we are fortunate enough to be able Sying to Melbourne, the Rrst week of the to take a much larger group as Madrid is a And so from the inspiration from pilgrimage was spent on the 'Days in the Over the week, we attended daily catechesis lot closer than Sydney. I would say to anyone Castlerigg it has changed my path, I Diocese' programme, in which we were split with diQerent bishops, Stations of the Cross, who is considering joining, or who is perhaps have now realised that I do not want into small groups and welcomed into the and Masses, one of which took place in the unfamiliar with this type of event – as I was – to live a selSsh life of acting, but to home of a family from the parish in Telstra Dome football stadium. At all of these that this is open to every young person in the live a selTess life and to be with young Geelong, the town we were staying in. For events there was the opportunity to meet diocese and we would love to have you join people that enter youth centres like this week we took part in Masses and events people from across the world, and in a way us next summer’. Castlerigg, helping young people in the parish, and lived as part of the family. unlike anything I'd experienced before. develop in their faith and help them The family we stayed with were unbelievably Everyone was so interested to meet us, to Application forms can be found on as much as Castlerigg helped me kind, and having raised several boys who Rnd out where we were from, and we www.castleriggmanor.co.uk and the discover myself. had now grown up, I think they were the swapped our Lancaster diocese badges for a deadline for applications is the 30 May (Amelia Rock, 18, Wrexham) perfect host family for me and the two collection of small souvenirs from every 2010 (this year) to enable time for other boys in my group. continent. The week culminated with a fundraising and preparatory events. www.catholicvoiceoSancaster.co.uk April 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 7 Give us a Wave! How I Love it, Live it, Rigg it! t has been a busy few months for the IPreston Impact Group and Wicked Dynamic Youth (WDY) Group. My Gap Year at Castlerigg Firstly, at the end of December we broke our record for bag packing and raised a massive £1,140 which is a fantastic sum for the group to use in various projects throughout 2010. We also welcomed a new Impact Chaplain in January, Fr. from Sacred Heart and St. Walburge's, Preston and said goodbye to Fr. Bernard Woods who moved to Barrow.

We also had a trip to Manchester to meet another Impact Group. At this meeting we talked about how we could make links with groups in diRerent dioceses, whilst discussing what other Impact Groups have been up to recently. Both Impact and WDY groups went for a meal together at the Café Bar in Preston. It was an opportunity to meet each group and Snd out what Impact and WDY had been up to. We are looking forward to the International Youth Festival in Kuopio, Finland at Easter Week where we will meet people and take part in workshops. Also, we have a return leg for the Malta Exchange astlerigg has been a whirlwind. visit from Fr Gerard Hughes SJ. Life at unceasingly, and in being held in Preston at the end of July. CFrom the minute I came up to visit Castlerigg is full of surprises from people community life we need that gift! and interview I knew that this was a visiting who came to the centre as a young If you would like to get involved in our special place. person and have popped back to show their Life here never stops, and each day my faith groups, please come along to one of our families where they stayed for a week, to is strengthened and deepened by those little meetings or check out our website on The setting is simply incredible, the work sixty year 8’s coming for the weekend. You encounters with young people, with www.iyLmpact.co.uk wonderful, and the community life just never know who might pop in next. speakers during training weeks, with the extraordinary. Castlerigg has helped me team and ultimately with God. to grow in ways I couldn’t have imagined But the truly wonderful part of living and before now. We, as a community, have had working here is all the incredible young Castlerigg is currently looking for young so many amazing encounters with diRerent people that walk through the door that help people who would like to do a gap year, speakers from Barbara Mason at the you to live out your faith in new and exciting beginning end of August 2010. beginning of the year, to Fr Hugh Pollock ways. We give to the young people a great For further information, email us on on our recent pilgrimage to Lindisfarne on part of ourselves but they give us so much [email protected] Holy Island where we even had a surprise more. They teach us how to love (Stephanie Price, 22) 8 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + April 2010 www.catholicvoiceoSancaster.co.uk Faith Faith Faith FaithFaithFaith FaithFaithFaith Vocation! Vocation! Vocation! Questions? Questions? Questions? Have you prayed I couldn’t Who Me? about whether be a nun! Why not You? you might have keep having the thought that maybe I’m called to be a priest. I just can’t get the Why not? idea out of my mind! What are the signs that Jesus really might be calling me to the I couldn’t be a priest! Why not? a vocation? I ? priesthood? Have you thought about whether you might have a vocation? James ? Have you spoken to anyone about having a vocation? ? Dear James, till looking for answers, then look no Sfurther. For some months now the Thank you for your enquiry about a vocation to the priesthood, and the signs that God may National OUce for Vocation has been be calling you. First of all, the sense of being called by God can only grow in an ‘atmosphere’ working with Conference of Vocations of faith and prayer and in the context of the Church. Living a regular life in one’s parish Directors for England and Wales, the community, Mass, the sacraments, prayer, and service of others is the frame in which the Archdiocese of Birmingham and other seed of a vocation is sown and develops. partners to organise Invocation 2010, a national vocations discernment weekend It’s within that framework that the person of Christ takes centre-stage. The cruciSed and for young adults. risen Lord, present with us until the end of time, and operating in his Church through the The event will be a unique event in the life power of the Holy Spirit, continues to call men to share his sacred ministry, by which he Invocation 2010 of the Church in England and Wales, for a reconciles the human race with his heavenly Father, and draws them into his kingdom. ‘Invocation 2010’ will be held in the grounds number of reasons. It is the Srst time a of St. Mary’s College, Oscott in the national gathering of young people has If you sense that his call “Come, follow me, and I will make you Rshers of men” is increasingly Archdiocese of Birmingham from 2nd – 4th been organised with a focus explicitly on addressed to you and that even when you forget about it or put it out of your mind it keeps July 2010. This is a national festival aimed at vocational discernment. It is also the Srst returning, then that’s as clear a sign as you’ll get that the Lord may be calling you. young men and women aged 16-35, who are time an event has been organised that will looking to deepen their relationship with bring together most of the seminarians of However that increasing conviction has to be tested by the Church to make sure that it is Christ, discern God’s will for their lives and at England and Wales. And members of genuine. Interviews and seminary training play an important part in this process, because least be open to the possibility of priesthood religious congregations who are in the the priest is never a “free-lance” operator. The mission and vocation is in the bosom of the or consecrated life. If you are interested or same age range (up to 35) will be attending Church, the corps of disciples, and he has to be able to “sentire cum Ecclesia” – to think with know of anyone who you feel may beneSt as well. the Church and act in concert with others. from the weekend please pass on this information and direct them to the website If you would talk to someone about a vocation Also, he has to develop a self-discipline that enables him to live the life of the priest invoking www.invocation.org.uk where more the please contact Fr. Manny Gribben on and using the charism of celibacy. This is part of the discernment that goes on during the information and a booking form is available. 01946 810324 or speak to your Parish Priest. time of formation, so that eventually he may be recommended to the Bishop for ordination. Reasonably good health, and the capacity to undertake the studies in Philosophy and Theology are also necessary. In addition a humble willingness to learn from others and make progress in spiritual wisdom without abandoning one’s own talents, gifts and insights, is necessary.

There are many avenues in which the call to the Priesthood may Snd expression. The diocesan priest serves God’s people in our parishes, schools, hospitals, etc; then again missionary priests, priests living in contemplative communities and monasteries, and priests involved in special apostolates, all exemplify diRerent aspects of the priestly work of Christ. Never be shy about raising these questions with a priest you know, or with whom you relate well. It will help clarify your thoughts and remove doubts.

Whatever the diUculties, the Lord is never out-done in generosity. Some of the old writers used to say that if you Snd yourself being able to answer ‘yes’ to all the diRerent indications of a vocation, then you have to have a very good God Bless, reason not to “go for it!”. Fr. Seraphim.

Sacraments of Holy Communion and Your Letters ConSrmation. Dear Editor We had no way of knowing how much they Re: Letter from a ‘Very Happy Mum’ had learnt, it wasn’t teaching, but sharing, in the February issue. loving and caring as Jesus did when He was here on earth.

I would like to relate my experiences, as a I wonder how many normal children really trained Catechist in a SPRED Group understand all the have been taught in (Special Religious Education) , to the loving preparation for the Sacraments. care given by that mother to her son. Surely that mother has prepared her son to The aim of SPRED was to show to our receive Holy Communion by taking him to ‘special friends’ the love of Jesus for them church, meeting and sharing with other and for us; by meeting with them regularly, parishioners and by giving him so much welcoming them, sharing with them in love and care. simple activities and prayer and ending the evening with an ‘Agape’ – eating and With love to a ‘Very Happy Mum and Son’ drinking together, showing our love for them and each other. In this way we Mary Traynor prepared many young people for the Preston www.catholicvoiceoSancaster.co.uk April 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 9 General Election 2010

“If we ever forget that we are One Nation Under God, then we will be a Nation gone under. Ronald Reagan ” Choosing the Common Good

n anticipation of the forthcoming Dignity of Life Igeneral election, the Bishops of ‘The principle of the common good requires England and Wales have published a that the essential dignity of every human life Statement ‘Choosing the Common Good’ . is upheld because our life is not our property The statement can be read in full at to dispose of but a gift to treasure’. www.lancasterdiocese.org.uk and We encourage www.catholicvoiceoMancaster.co.uk Poverty and Inequality - “ Care of the Elderly everyone to read Archbishop Vincent Nichols, president of ‘Catholic social teaching on the dignity of this document and the Bishops' Conference, said: “We the human person entails a profound belief encourage everyone to read this document in the equality of all, and the duty therefore participate in the and participate in the wide-ranging and on society to promote equality of opportunity, wide-ranging and necessary debate about the values and to oppose unjust discrimination and combat vision by which we seek to construct a just disadvantage.’ necessary debate and civil society. Ultimately Choosing the about the values and Common Good is about human Sourishing. Migration and Community Relations vision by which we It does not oQer a direction on how to vote, ‘...it is imperative that all policies on but forms a back-cloth to the more immigration, and the procedures, structures seek to construct a just particular issues which may well dominate and processes that implement those and civil society. the election itself and oQers an invitation policies, should start from the recognition to the political parties on how best to of this human dignity and the inalienable Most Rev. Archbishop Vincent Nichols respond in all of our joint eQorts to build a rights that follow from it.’ better society.” ” The Global Community and Ecology ‘We all need urgently to recover a sense of the integrity and sacredness of the whole ‘The Common Good refers to what of God’s creation, of which we are not the belongs to everyone by virtue of masters but the stewards.’ their common humanity. Marriage and Family Life ‘The future of society passes by way of the family. Families, for better or worse, are the W’hilst the Bishops recognise that ‘No Rrst school of life and love, where the government can solve every problem, nor capacity to relate to others, to develop make us more generous or responsive to moral character, is founded.’ need’ they do highlight areas of public and private life where they believe a return to Role of Faith Communities Christian values of Faith, Hope and Love ‘The right to religious freedom means would beneSt society as a whole. the right to live by faith, within the ‘Choosing the Common Good’ presents reasonableness of the common good, and to certain key themes in Catholic Social act by faith in the public forum.’ Teaching that provide clear guidance on the vision and values need to repair and The Bishops conclude their Statement by grow our society. “Where there is no vision, urging conSdence in the challenges the people perish” (Proverbs 29:18) ahead, quoting Pope Benedict XVI in his most recent encyclical Caritas in Veritate: The Bishops argue that trust and virtue “The complexity and gravity of the present are essential ingredients if a just and civil economic situation rightly causes us society is to be created. Trust between concern, but we must adopt a realistic individuals, between the citizen and the attitude as we take up with conRdence and state, and in our institutions has, the hope the new responsibilities to which we Bishops maintain, been eroded at all levels are called by the prospect of a world in need of public and private life and needs to be of profound cultural renewal, a world that restored. The Bishops believe that we all needs to rediscover fundamental values on have a part to play in re-building trust which to build a better future.” through virtue. They assert that ‘Virtuous action springs from a sense of one’s own The Catholic Voice urges you to dignity and that of others, and from - take part in pre-election debates to self-respect as a citizen. It is doing good advance Catholic teaching even when no one is looking.’ - question prospective candidates on Whilst the Statement does not provide their position regarding Catholic an exhaustive examination of Catholic teaching Social Teaching it does address some - choose the Common Good when key themes: using your vote 10 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + April 2010 www.catholicvoiceoSancaster.co.uk Faith Faith Faith FaithFaithFaith FaithFaithFaith

St George Patron Saint of England

ccording to tradition, St George, and so they joined George in martyrdom. Awho is venerated as a Christian mar - His body was returned to Lydda for burial, tyr, was a Roman soldier in the Guard of where Christians soon came to honour Diocletian. him as a martyr.

Born into a Christian noble family in Lydda, Palestine during the late third century between about 275AD and 285 “...rightly reverenced among AD, he died in Nicomedia. His father, us, but whose actions are Gerontius, was a Roman army oUcial from Cappadocia and his mother was from known only to God. Palestine. They were both Christians and Pope Gelasius from noble families of Anici. They decided to call their son Georgius (Latin) or The reason the Church now simply Georgios (Greek) , meaning “worker of the ” commemorates St George is that, land” . Aged thirteen, George lost his although he certainly existed, so little is father; a few years later, George’s mother deSnitely known about him. His story is so Polchronia died. In Eastern accounts, his wrapped in myth and legend that it parents are given the names Anastasius becomes diUcult to extract the historical and Theobaste. facts of a real life. The legends associated with him are incredible and were probably The imperial city at that time was used in times when people were more Nicomedia and George, wishing to apply comfortable with such materials. The for a career as a soldier, decided to go and virtues associated with St George, such as present himself to Emperor Diocletian. He courage, honour and fortitude in defence Saint George prayer: was welcomed by Diocletian who had of the Christian faith, indeed remain as known his father Gerontius to be one of important as ever. As early as 496, Pope his Snest soldiers. By his late twenties, Gelasius in De libris recipiendis includes O GOD, who didst grant to Saint George was promoted to the rank of George among those saints “whose names George strength and constancy Tribunus and stationed as an imperial are rightly reverenced among us, but whose guard of the Emperor at Nicomedia. in the various torments which actions are known only to God.” he sustained for our holy faith; Diocletian (inSuenced by Galerius) began a St George is also, of course venerated in we beseech Thee to preserve, campaign against Christians at the very the Church of England, by the Orthodox through his intercession, our beginning of the fourth century. He issued churches and by the churches of the faith from wavering and doubt, an edict in AD 302 that every Christian Middle East and Ethiopia. so that we may serve Thee with soldier in the army should be arrested and a sincere heart faithfully unto every other soldier should oRer a gift to The supposed tomb of St George can still the Pagan gods. George, objecting to the be seen at Lod, south-east of Tel Aviv; and death. Through Christ our Lord. persecution and resigning his military a convent in Cairo preserves personal Amen. post in protest, and with the courage of objects which are believed to have his faith, approached Diocletian, and in belonged to St George. He is patron saint front of his fellow soldiers and Tribunes, not only of England but also of Aragon, declared himself to be a Christian. Catalonia, Georgia, Lithunia, Palestine, Diocletian, not wanting to lose his best Portugal, Germany and Greece; and of tribune and the son of his best oUcial Moscow, Istanbul, Genoa and Venice Gerontius, attempted to convert George (second to Saint Mark) . He’s also patron with gifts of land, slaves and money if he saint of soldiers, archers, cavalry and made a sacriSce to the Pagan gods. chivalry, farmers and Seldworkers, riders George refused to give up his faith and and saddlers, and he helps those suRering Diocletian issued an execution order. from diseases such as plague and leprosy. In recent years he has been adopted as Before his execution, George gave his patron saint of Scouts. Some people have wealth to the poor and prepared himself campaigned for St Alban to be the patron for the terrible tortures which preceded saint of England instead of George. his execution by decapitation before Nicomedia’s walls on April 23rd , 303. A St George’s Day is April 23rd , which is witness of his suRering convinced also famous for being both the birthday Empress Alexandra and Athanasius a and date of the death of William pagan priest to become Christians as well, Shakespeare. Jenny Phillips www.catholicvoiceoSancaster.co.uk April 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 11 Following in the footsteps of Jesus

aster is a special time and not just Ebecause of all the chocolate eggs! Before Easter we have Holy Week.

Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday when Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a donkey cheered by crowds of people waving palms. Next we have Holy Thursday when Jesus washes the feet of his followers and celebrates the Last Supper with them. On Good Friday we remember Jesus being Wanted for the cruelly treated and being nailed to the Cross and dying. Missions

And then we celebrate the great feast of Easter when Jesus rises from the dead and Large Statues promises eternal life to all who believe in (Even damaged ones), Him. old vestments, pictures, church So why not make a special eRort to go to fittings, rosaries, prayer books, etc. church on Palm Sunday, Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday this year. It sounds a lot of church but you will be able Please ring Mr. B. Ferris KSC, to follow in the footsteps of Jesus and in doing so come closer to Him as a friend. 102 Moor St, Earlsdon, Coventry CV5 6EY Why not try out our word search too. In the puzzle you will Snd many names and Tel: 02476 676986 events associated with Easter and Holy Week:

Jesus / Palm Sunday / Mary / Last Supper / Peter / Good Friday / Veronica / Crown of Thorns / Pilate / Calvary / Cross / Easter / Judas / How many can you Lnd?

CALVARYCXE

RHOCVTENYA

OLKQZPREAS

WKMA R Y C RNT

NJMCVONPAE

OVQWT IOCFR

FSSORCICWJ

TJTJMNLUEA

HBFPOBPLPU

ONWRKUX IZK

RWEUESLSVO

NVTVHAQKL F

SMRWTGN JMG

NTEECTOUVO

EAPGJ ELDCO

DFPHKPRAZD

YYUNSVWSXF

RUSC J IGCOR

EQTCEVQHMI

TXSRSUIAWD

ECAHUXGCCA

PALMSUNDAY 12 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + April 2010 www.catholicvoiceoSancaster.co.uk

The Editorial Team

oice Editorial Team: 1 Here is a reminder of the Catholic V

1/ Edwina Gillett – Editor 2/ Jenny Phillips – Assistant Editor gian 3/ Deacon Nick Donnelly – Theolo s Editor 4/ Fr. Philip Conner – Youth Matter l Advisor 5/ Fr. Robert Billing – Ecclesiastica 5 members to the 2 We are pleased to welcome two new are Daniel Etienne Editorial Team in recent weeks, they r. Chris Loughran (Student, Lancaster University) and F hs and short (St Clare’s Preston). Their photograp dition. biographies will appear in the May e ews on the content The Editorial Team welcome your vi ice. Please send and presentation of the Catholic Vo your comments to the Editor at t Annes, FY8 4DJ 99, Commonside, Ansdell, Lytham S or email: [email protected] 4

3

VoiceXtra is now online! Keep up-to-date with the news and events around the diocese. Log on to:

The practice of Jungian Psychotherapy is not contrary to the Church's teaching. Fr Chris Jenkins, www.chrisjenkins.org