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The Official Newspaper to Inside this month: the Diocese of Lancaster p5 Open wide the doors p6 Singing for their supper Issue 233 + October 2011 p10 Priestly jubilees

© Mazur/catholicchurch.org.uk The Importance of the Eucharist in Our Lives Celebrate!Come

andoth my Granddads workedAdore! in Barrow Second Vatican Council expresses it: Bshipyard and every work day they went to Mass; Granddad Jim went to the early ‘Really partaking of the body of the Lord in the morning Mass at St Patrick's, Barrow breaking of the Eucharistic bread, we are taken Island, and Granddad Joseph went to lunch up into communion with Him and with one time Mass at St Mary's, Duke Street. Since another. “Because the bread is one, we though I was a boy my dad taught me that every many, are one body, all of us who partake of Deacon time I passed a Catholic church, if possible, the one bread”. In this way all of us are made I should go in and say a quiet prayer members of His Body, “but severally members Nick Donnelly before the Blessed Sacrament. one of another” (Lumen Gentium, 7). Diocesan organiser, This story of the importance of the Eucharist This vitally important theme will be explored International to my family is also the story of so many and prayed in a number of very Catholic ways: Eucharistic Catholic families the length and breadth of Congress 2012 the Diocese of Lancaster. The Mass has been • The Eucharist will be celebrated and at the heart of our marriages, a consolation adored every day, culminating in a great at the funerals of our loved ones, the Mass for the World, the Statio Orbis. purpose and passion of our lives as priests • There will be catechesis on the and deacons, and the mainstay of our Eucharist by bishops from around the weekly lives every Sunday, with all our joys, world, including personal testimony struggles and sorrows. from invited speakers on the importance of the Eucharist in their lives. It is out of this recognition of the • Meetings with other Catholics to pray importance of the Eucharist to our lives that and reflect on the Eucharist, including and accommodation. Information can Lord Jesus, Bishop Campbell invites you and your parish sharing with Catholics from around be found at the International Eucharistic to come with him to the International the world. Congress website: www.iec2012.ie You were sent by the Father to gather Eucharistic Congress to be held next year, • A solemn Eucharistic Procession as an together those who are scattered. in Dublin, Ireland June 10-17th. act of public witness. • Why not register your interest in You came among us, doing good and attending the International Eucharistic bringing healing, announcing the Word What is an International As the organisers of the International Congress with me by of salvation and giving the Bread which Eucharistic Congress? Eucharistic Congress explain: email: [email protected]; lasts forever. Be our companion on One thing the International Eucharistic by phone: 01229 821866 (Please leave a life’s pilgrim way. Congress isn't is a talking shop with loud ‘In the Eucharist we are invited to a personal message if you get the answer machine); people arguing about religion! The act of encounter with the Lord who gives or by post Deacon Nick Donnelly, May your Holy Spirit inflame our hearts, Eucharistic Congress is a gathering of himself for us, in Word and Sacrament. That 3 Croft Park Grove, Barrow-in-Furness, Catholics from around the world, of all ages encounter opens the path for new relationships Cumbria LA13 9NJ. enliven our hope and open our minds, and backgrounds, to celebrate and focus in which we, as Church and as individual so that together with our sisters and on the place of the Eucharist in our lives Christians are invited to engage in a social • Why not tell other Catholics in your brothers in faith we may recognise you and the life of the Church. mission, in which we in turn are given for parish about the Congress, and see if in the Scriptures and in the breaking of others. The Eucharist, as the theme of the others are interested in attending as a bread. May your Holy Spirit transform What happens at an International previous Congress (Quebec 2008) reminds us, parish group. Talk to your parish priest us into one body and lead us to walk Eucharistic Congress? is “the gift of God for the life of the world” and if there is interest in going as a humbly on the earth, in justice and love, The theme of the 50th Eucharistic Congress (cf. Jn. 6:51).’ parish contact me. as witnesses of your resurrection. in Dublin is ‘The Eucharist: Communion with Christ and with one another’. Communion is a What is the Diocese of Lancaster • Please pray for the success of the personal relationship of love and self-giving. doing to prepare for the International Congress at your parish Masses, and In communion with Mary, whom you This theme will help us to explore not only Eucharistic Congress? during your personal prayer. The Church gave to us as our Mother at the foot of how our relationship with Jesus can be • The Diocese is planning to arrange in Ireland has composed this prayer of the cross, through you may all praise, deepened in the Eucharist, but also how the coaches to take pilgrims to Dublin via the 50th International Eucharistic honour and blessing be to the Father in Eucharist challenges us to look more closely the ferry. Alternately, individuals can Congress, inspired by the story of the the Holy Spirit and in the Church, Now at how we live with one another. As the make their own arrangements for travel two disciples on the road to Emmaus: and forever. Amen. 2 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + October 2011 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk

EDITORIAL he past two months have seen a number of social and Liberal Democrat MPs, setting out reasons why all coalition Tlegal developments in our country that represent ad- health ministers disagreed with the amendment. This has vances for the culture of death and further attacks on the been seen as the Coalition government imposing a whip on civilisation of love, as Blessed John Paul the Great expressed MPs voting. the conflict between secularism and the pro-life culture of Christianity. Also in September, Lord Falconer, the zealous campaigner for euthanasia, claimed that assisted suicide would no longer be prosecuted in our country. The reason for his claim was the admission by the Crown Prosecution Service that since 2009 While it is true that taking“ of life not yet born they had investigated 44 cases of assisted suicide and decided or in its final stages is sometimes marked by that, though proven, that they would not bring a prosecution against offenders. Though it is still, in theory, illegal to assist a mistaken sense of altruism and human another person to commit suicide, the CPS decision not to act compassion it cannot be denied that such a means that, as the Catholic journalist Christina Odone puts it, culture of death, taken as a whole, betrays a the UK has ‘legalized assisted suicide when no one was looking’. Contact us completely individualistic concept of freedom, The final victory for the culture of death was the announcement The Catholic Voice of Lancaster which ends up by becoming the freedom by the Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) to is published on the last Sunday of the reverse its decision to support the cases of two Christians month previous to publication date. of "the strong" against “the weak” who claiming religious discrimination before the European Court of have no choice but to submit. Human Rights. The two Christians have been sacked for refusing, The Catholic Voice of Lancaster is on conscientious grounds, to provide services to homosexuals, published by its owners. The Trustees Evangelium Vitae asking instead that other colleagues provide the services. of the Roman Catholic Diocese of (One of the Christians had been instructed to officiate at the Civil Lancaster, a registered charity, Partnership of two homosexuals and the other one had been (No. 234331), and is wholly independent The Catholic Voice of Lancaster sincerely” believes that it is essential required to give sexual counselling to homosexuals.) of and separate from any previous that Catholics and people of good will are informed of these developments not out of any sense of reactionary rage but newspaper published by or on behalf The EHRC had announced that they would support these two rather to make clear the advances and defeats in the on-going of the diocese. Christians, arguing that employers need to make ‘reasonable war that we are all called to fight, through prayer, protest, and accommodation’ to protect the rights of religious believers. pro-life campaigning. EDITOR: However, as a result of a ferocious campaign from the gay lobby, Edwina Gillett the EHRC has now decided that they will not support these cases In early September the Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and 01253 736630 / 07969 967268 before the European Court of Human Rights, but instead will the Liberal party were crowing that they had defeated Nadine [email protected] argue, with the National Secular Society, that it is right to ignore Dorries MP and Frank Field MP's modest pro-life amendment to www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk these Christians’ rights to religious freedom, and right to the Health Bill that sought to break the monopoly of pregnancy sack them. ADVERTISING: counselling by the giants of the £60 million a year abortion industry, BPAS and Marie Stopes. The Dorries and Field Nick Layton / CathCom Ltd. The Catholic Voice of Lancaster believes that these are dark days amendment sought to establish pregnancy counselling 020 7112 6710 for all who want to see a civilization of life and genuine love in independent from abortionists who make a massive profit out of [email protected] our county, and that the ascendancy of the culture of death is exploiting pregnant women and killing hundreds of thousands www.cathcom.org obvious for all to see, through its brutal and naked exercise of of babies every year. power over our parliament, public institutions and media. DESIGN & LAYOUT: However, more and more people in our country are waking up The pro-abortion lobby was enraged by this pro-life amendment, Rob Hotchkiss / Hot Creative to the evil in our midst, as it drops its mask in its pride and directing their fury at former nurse Nadine Dorries, who admitted [email protected] arrogance. This is the way with evil, it that she had received daily death threats and a barrage of www.hot-creative.co.uk inevitably reveals itself, and personal abuse. ordinary, good people realise PUBLISHED BY: that they have to oppose it, CathCom Ltd. Following the position of its former leader Lord Steel who through the 2/4 Church Street, Steeple Bumpstead, introduced abortion to this country, the modern day successor grace of God. Haverhill, CB9 7DG to the Liberal Party sided with the pro-killing lobby and put 0870 228 4266 pressure on their coalition partners to wreck the amendment. www.cathcom.org As a result Prime Minister David Cameron betrayed pregnant women and unborn children by publicly expressing his Life size models of Articles to: opposition to the independent counselling amendment and his babies at 7, 8, support of the multi-million pound abortion industry. 9,10 and 12 [email protected] weeks after Furthermore, departing from the parliamentary convention that conception - Letters to: details are abortion, as a matter of conscience, is a free vote for MPs, Anne accurate for each [email protected] Milton, health minister, sent a letter to all Conservative and stage of development. VoiceXtra: [email protected] BY THE WAY…

Postal Address: FAO Edwina Gillett 99 Commonside, Ansdell, ...... Why not string along! Lytham St. Annes FY8 4DJ

Please send articles for publication on CD or by email, supplying any photos separate he ‘Catholic Voice’ is looking to build up an army of There is obviously plenty of scope for widening and growing the to the text (i.e. in jpeg format). Otherwise T‘stringers’. Could you be one of them? circulation of the ‘Catholic Voice’ but the Paper cannot do this if please type double spacing or write very it is simply left in a pile at the back of our churches. It needs a clearly. Last date for copy is the LAST Over the past year there have been a steady number of requests helping hand. So we would like to enlist the help of volunteers DAY of the month prior to publication. from parishes to reduce the number of ‘Catholic Voice’ papers in every Parish to: Photographs will be returned if you that they receive. This means that our circulation has fallen from remember to put your name and address 13,000 copies to just over 12,000. • Help with the distribution of papers as people leave church on the back of each and enclose suitable (and consider ways of wider distribution in their area) stamped and self-addressed packaging. With an estimated Catholic population of over 100,000 across • Feed information and news items to the Paper to spread the the diocese the ‘Catholic Voice’ should be seen as a help to word and bear witness to the Faith in your locality parishes to re engage with the missing people from our congregations. Essentially the free monthly publication is If you think that you would like to ‘string along’ then produced to help educate in the Catholic Faith and bear witness please get in touch by telephone, email or letter and to the Faith in Lancashire north of the river Ribble and all say which parish you represent. Contact details in of Cumbria. the column left. Edwina Gillett, Editor ‘Catholic Voice’ www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk October 2011 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 3 We March, We Pray, We Eat and Drink

ourdes looks very different when quite moving. There was a real sense of Aircraftman Adam Yates from RAF almost like a big school reunion. Lmost of those on pilgrimage are caring and warmth the whole weekend. Marham, said: young and fit… and in uniform. The Being a Catholic I had always wanted to visit International Military Pilgrimage (IMP) I was surprised by the sheer amount of “Although the trip is a major religious event, Lourdes. I can't really describe in words just started in 1958 when the French Armed people at Lourdes. The opening and closing and the religious aspects are central to the how it felt to not only be celebrating Mass at Forces invited the German military to ceremony in the underground church gave occasion, it isn't overpowering, so people this place, but to be representing my country join them in Lourdes as a gesture of a sense of the amount, but it was too vast who aren't as religious as others don't get in front of the foreign nations, but it post-war reconciliation. Since then the to really see everybody. The torchlight overwhelmed. The most moving part of my exceeded any preconceptions that I had. It pilgrimage has grown and in 2011 some procession showed the scale of the visit this year was going into the Grotto in was a truly inspiring place and quite moving 37 countries were represented among pilgrimage and was quite a spectacle. the early hours of the morning when it was to see what the power of faith can achieve. the 20,000 military pilgrims. almost empty. I got a very real feel and I will take away from Lourdes a great feeling understanding of why Lourdes is such an The Diocese of Lancaster and the Catholic of appreciation from the rest of the world important place for so many people. Every Women’s League paid for Servicemen and a true amazement for the size and year I walk away with a sense of peace and injured in Afghanistan to join the British numbers involved in a pilgrimage of this calm after the experience in the baths and What really“ struck me was contingent. kind. The love shared by all was genuine and the Grotto. Also a great sense of pride from the fact that there were wonderful throughout the weekend.” representing the RAF and the whole British people stood next to me who Rifleman Matt Fisher of 3rd Battalion The military at such a high-profile event.” Rifles was one of those who attended this Chief Petty Officer Shane Hulks of the were equally moved by the year. He said: Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose was Alongside the serving British military, the experience, people who less asked to describe what they do on the Joint Service Hosanna House Group takes “Lourdes 2011 came onto my radar a few pilgrimage: “We march, we pray, we eat elderly, sick or injured veterans to Lourdes than two hours before had weeks ago when Father Alex, my unit padre, and drink,” he said. All the national to coincide with the International Military told me that they were not suggested I come along with my fiancée. She contingents march to the venues, and Pilgrimage, so the young servicemen and religious in any way. is Catholic and I knew she would love it and I this year the Band of the Royal Corps of women can meet them and enjoy their had always been a bit intrigued by the place Signals accompanied the British group. war stories when they meet up for some and wanted to see it. of the events. The Military Pilgrims take part in the When we arrived I was struck by the amount familiar pilgrimage events. This year many It is the sense of comradeship which In true military style” we always found time to of different nationalities there. There were Officer Cadets from the Royal Military strikes almost everyone who takes part. A squeeze in a beer, socialise, and celebrate all sorts of different uniforms and it was a Academy Sandhurst followed an old first-time participant was Petty Officer with the different nations. These different great chance to see a bit of the culture and pilgrim custom and walked the hillside Steve Frewer from the destroyer HMS kinds of celebrations went on well into the traditions of other countries' armed forces. Stations of the Cross in bare feet. A Gloucester, who said: night and often ended in parts of uniform torchlight procession saw all the being swapped as life-long memories of the Being an injured soldier myself, it was good thousands of military pilgrims process by “When we met the foreign nations, there friendships formed.” to meet up with a few other injured soldiers candlelight around the open spaces. was no hostility or bad feelings, just from other regiments, and the support and thousands of military personnel from all Next year's International Military appreciation from people from all over was A practised-hand at Lourdes, Senior different backgrounds coinciding as one, Pilgrimage will be from 10-14 May 2012.

Photograph: The British contingent marches with Bishop Richard Moth to the Grotto at Lourdes © Photo Lacaze and used by permission.

International Military Pilgrimage 4 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + October 2011 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk

Being a Young Catholic Today Thomas Scott, 16, Whitehaven At the Grotto-

Listening Our young people at Lourdes to the Call his summer a group of 90 young people from across the will turn out right, just as God intended it to be. I am no longer angry Tdiocese participated in the diocesan pilgrimage to or upset about my circumstances, because I know that this was Lourdes. Despite the lousy weather, the pilgrimage was a meant to be. eing a Catholic has played a wonderful opportunity to be together and make new friends, Bmajor part in my life, and I have experience our faith in a new and refreshing way and there My Dad once told me that God deals you a hand, and He does that strived to attain spiritual growth. can be no doubt that the young people provided an in- to see how you cope, to see what type of person you are, One story from the Bible which has spiring example of service and dedication and as I believe that if it is to see how you cope and what always meant alot to me is the story in their work with the sick and less able. type of person you are, then, for me, I think it was to where a young boy Samuel is asleep show that I have faith, despite everything. I was born one evening in the house of the Maisie, aged 16, from Fleetwood shares weighing 1lb 5oz and as any of my medical doctors priest Eli. A voice calls Samuel, and with us her reflections of how the would tell you, I wasn’t supposed to survive. They were the little boy thinks that the priest pilgrimage has affected her. close to losing me on a few occasions. So, really, it’s had called for him. After a few hard for me not to believe that my survival was put in occurrences of this incident, Eli ‘Lourdes is known to be one of the most Holy the hands of God, and I was put on this Earth to cope explains that it was God calling places in the Christian faith, not only because with any situation, and I think God knows that Samuel. This is a very direct way that Our Lady appeared to Bernadette in the Grotto, I struggle sometimes. When I reflect upon God’s call is shown to us; God’s call but because people can have experiences there the odds of my survival, I realise how lucky may not be loud like our mobile that they would never experience if they weren’t so I am. Alright, it might not be the greatest phones. It may vibrate; meaning we focused on their faith in Lourdes. circumstances, but compared to people who have to feel and search for the truth you see at Lourdes that are terminally ill, or within God’s call, or perhaps silent, In my experience, Lourdes now feels like home. I think, in have a serious condition, it dawns on you how where we have to be open and keep many ways, it is in Lourdes that I have come to terms grateful you should be, because rather than an eye on God’s plan and journey for us. with my life and accepted my circumstances. You see, I spending the rest of my life complaining about have Cerebral Palsy, which means that in my case, I am in a my own circumstances, I would rather channel my I am very proud to be part of a faith wheelchair. Prior to coming to Lourdes, I had my faith, definitely. In useless negative energy into something good to help others who that asks us to reflect, question, pray some way or another I always have, but I was confused about my life are worse off than myself. and humble ourselves in service to our and where I stood in the world and because of this, I was shy around Lord Jesus Christ. My background has people at school because I thought that my wheelchair meant that Mahatma Ghandi once said “Be the change you want to see in the very much helped my faith and I have it stopped me from doing things that an able-bodied person could world.” So that’s what I’m going to set out to do, with every bit of been an Altar Server to this day. As an easily do. faith that God will help me along the way. All of this was what I Altar Server I have been very lucky to received from just talking to the V.I.P’s. They made me realize just serve at some very prestigious occasions Coming to Lourdes with the diocese has helped to settle my worries how much there was to be grateful for, so, I couldn’t ask for much including my Dad’s ordination to the and fears about my circumstances. Lourdes showed me that God has more than that. They made me realize that I would rather help Permanent Diaconate, Belmont a plan for everyone, and even though we may not like it at the time, people worse off than myself and “be the change you want to see Abbeys 150th Anniversary celebrated we can leave it in the hands of God, and we have faith that things in the world.” ’ by Archbishop Vincent Nichols, and serving at the International Mass in Lourdes. I have been an Altar Server for 8 years now. A couple of months ago I was commissioned as a Eucharistic Minister, and a Knight of St Columba, two very proud occasions in my growing as a young Catholic and to which my family were also very proud.

I would like to encourage all young people to pray for guidance in our future decisions, and to be open to God’s will, as God will never shut the arishes celebrate the involvement and enthusiasm of our young people by door to us. In a world where young Pmaking special plans for National Youth Sunday celebrated on the feast of people are portrayed in such a poor Christ the King. manner, we must gain strength and encouragement from the Holy Spirit, National To help in the preparation for this celebration the Youth Service is holding a Volunteers as the youth have so many gifts and Day on Saturday 5th November from 10:30 am until 3:00 pm in Holy Trinity and St talents, that society may miss out on George’s, Kendal. Anyone working with young people throughout our Diocese is the opportunities that they offer. Youth Sunday encouraged to come. These gatherings have been a great source of support, encouragement and sharing of ideas. Contact the Youth Service for more details 017687 72711. and journeyed down through France, over cliffs of Dover, we sailed for the continent country, andleaving behindusthe white riots andunrest. Travelling through the its shadow over England with thesummer Keswick. At thetime,adark pallhadcast dreary wet morningthatour coach left After monthsof preparation, it was ona heart glad.’ people of thisworld are, andthatmademy really showed how firminthe faith the young people's witnessof their love for Jesus. It on andIamso thankfulfor allthose young carry these people inmy hearts from now of thepersecuted Church’. over theworld andreally meeting thefaces those flagsflying, meeting people from all we belongto aworldwide Church, seeing all Price wrote that what struck her was ‘how Reflecting upontheexperience, Steph to celebrate our faith. together with Pope BenedictinMadrid young people from around the world diocese andjoined with two million Fifty young people represented our - World Youth Day inMadrid Open wide thedoors www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk W This is what we did now spansmore thantwo weeks. orld Youth Day isanevent which ‘ S Thisreflection, anoccasional quiz, word-search, evenings start with aperiodof quiet enthusiastic, butfullof vigour. Our We started with asmallgroup, keen and Teen Team was created. reflection anda visit to Castlerigg –and thought, discussion with my wife, isa first classfacility for us to use.Much had commissioned anew Parish Hall, and itcameatthetimethatparish parish was notreaching outto everyone, with Fr Michael we identifiedthatthe whatand having a bitof free time.Together reducing my fulltime work commitments in part.Thisoffer coincided withme which left agap which Ioffered to fill have a youth worker, butshemoved on A few years agoCarlisle was privileged to Friday evenings. Team’ into adulthood,asIlead theparish‘Teen part inhelpingtoday’s teenagers grow of Fr MichaelMurphy, Iplay a very small wethe veryCarlisle, with valuablesupport work to support andcherish. Here in their lives, astage of life thatallof us our teenagers are entering anew phasein Both Iandfellow helpers recognise that dark winter’snight. didis guaranteed even onacold, wet and years leading theparish youth group; it She added,‘Iwill my feelings following acouple of atisfaction Guaranteed’ for acouple of hoursonalternate excitement andeverywhere we turned people. This was acity exudinglife and outbreaks of flashmob withthousandsof song andchantdance andeven and thestreets andmetro were alive with background andtongue; flagsunfurled with people from every country, nation, was thronging with countless pilgrims And thenit was down to Madrid.Thecity and anupliftingcelebration of Mass. festival with alltheother pilgrims,aconcert time at Valladolid comprised a wonderful lived andbreathed. Thefinalday of our where someof the World Youth Day saints visit theshrinesatAvila andDueneas particularly special. We were alsoable to of the Vulnerata atthecollege was poignant andto pray before thestatue that traditionof martyrdom was initsself sentence to beapriest. To bereminded of forbidden to beaCatholicanddeath during therecusant period when it was trained attheEnglishCollege in Valladolid Catholic forbears, student priests who journey followed thatof many of our Valladolid sometimethenextday. Our of northernSpain,before arrivingat the Pyrenees andonto thehighplains summarises Derek Nash, Our Lady’s & StJoseph’s Carlisle is ‘Satisfaction Guaranteed’. parish withyour youngerit parishioners positive manner. Whatever you doin your parishioners grow anddevelop ina are interested in ensuring thatour young that they will quickly agree with, but we language, musicor iPhones,something youth workers, understand Teen Culture, don’t profess to beaskilled or qualified the Diocesan events. Colleagues andI little more of our timejoininginsome of widen our activitiesandperhapsspenda Within thenext12monthsIhopeto a Churches Together event. World”. DuringAdvent we participated in a Photographic Challenge “Our Living main building,andduringLent Iinitiated enjoyed socialevenings away from the recipe of their own choice. We have also prepare the“eats” use and where those who enjoy cooking, activities while thekitchen isputto good Pool, Crafts,Chess,Scrabble, andsimilar The larger hallisusedfor Table Tennis, occasional speaker, who knows? if numbersgrow we can invite an part. We discussfuture activities,perhaps of the world in which they play a valuable opportunities to widen their understanding explore with the young people is to steer, guideandencourage. We natter. My role andthatof my colleagues crossword, brief debate andfriendly or experiment with a a taste of Heaven. together insilence andadoration, was such anocean of people allpraying of people was breathtaking, outskirts of thecity. To sees gathered atamilitary airfieldonthe final vigil whenalltwo millionpeople Healing Service. Allof thisbuiltupto the organised by Alpha,andaEucharistic different scenes of the Passion, a concert almost life-like figures representing the Spanish floats or paseos whichexhibited Cross which were centred around the ceremony of thePope, theStationsof the the evening activities:the welcoming wilted inthe45-degree heat,andawaited In theafternoons, we foraged for food, and Mass. and bishops,praise worship music, catecheses from different speakers pilgrims. There we were treated to which held12,000English-speaking Our mornings were spentatanarena momentoes. to eachother, sharingbadgesand sense of unity with allthepilgrimstalking there was laughter andjoy andareal coe 01+ h ahlcVieo acse + +The Catholic Voice of Lancaster October 2011 but to see uch anocean and rooted inChrist,firm faith’. and anew generationisrising,‘builtup attended to seethattheChurch isalive been anabsolute joy for allthose who hope, joy andpassionfor theChurch’. ‘act asawitnessto Christinhow Ilive, inlove, added thatfrom now onthey would like to fun, hot,exciting, peaceful, crazy’ like NOTHING I’ve ever experienced before: another, Rachel Turley wrote that‘itwas confidence intheir faithinGodandone that hasgiven everyone somuchmore Summing uptheexperience, anexperience trust inGod’. has taught mehow to pray andputmy really was withme.The wholeexperience first timeI felt close to God, asthough He another young personadded,that suddenly there was allthispeace’ ‘after thestorm, we were allgrim,and Sarah from Kirkhamcommented that gettable experience. but allof thesejust addedto atruly unfor- rainstorms with thunder andlightning, eating ants,mighty winds andtorrential ment of aplagueof grasshoppers,flesh- Of course, there was theaddedexcite- vestments, pictures,church Please ringMr. B.Ferris Tel: 02476676986 Missions fittings, rosaries,prayer Earlsdon, Coventry Large Statues(Even Wanted KSC, 102MoorSt, damaged ones),old for the books, etc. CV5 6EY and another and ‘for the It has 5 6 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + October 2011 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk Catenian News

ardinal Allen School Fleetwood was Cthe setting for the presentation of Catenian Bursary cheques to 3 Year 11 Singing for young ladies, Lucinda Denney, Sophie CateniansCronshaw and Sophie Shield. their Supper The cheques were awarded to help them on their diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes in July. The girls will have to sing for their supper however, since they promised to give a short talk to a future Catenian meeting, describing their pilgrimage highlights. John Gildert

Ascot Cream Tea Frances receives a Helping Hand

resident of Garstang Catenians, Paul Applicants for the grants do not need to PWhittle, presented Miss Frances have any connection to a member of the Garsed, 21 years, of Fulwood, Preston, Catenian Association. with a £250 grant from the Catenian Association Bursary Fund. The It is a charitable fund administered by presentation took place at the Trustees and fulfils one of its core aims: ‘to Catenians monthly meeting in July. advance the interests of young Catholics and to assist them in their choice or pursuit of Frances is due to go to Kyrgyzstan at their career’. the end of July for 4 weeks during her university vacation to teach English to Grants are made to contribute to children there between the ages of 10 to necessary travel and living costs which 18. Her work is entirely voluntary and the may be incurred by taking part in a children, who experience severe poverty in voluntary project. Grants are never made that part of the world, will undoubtedly to cover the whole cost and grants are benefit from her expertise. not made retrospectively, so applications ytham St.Annes Circle hosted a Big accompaniment of a string quartet. must be made in good time. Each LHats and Champagne event which The Ascot theme continued with a The Catenian Bursary Fund helps application is considered on its merits. raised £758 for the Prostate Cancer number of horse races screened to raise Catholics aged 16 to 24 take part in Recipients are required to provide a Charity. The many guests enjoyed a funds and entertain the guests. There community based projects at home and written report on their project, preferably champagne reception, followed was also a grand raffle with an array abroad which have a clear benefit for with photographs of the work by an Ascot cream tea to the of excellent prizes. others as well as for the participant. undertaken. Thomas R. Rigby Two for Cumberland West

umberland West Catenians recently welcomed two new Brothers. Kevin CGollogly, who enrolled as a full member and Vince Reed Junior, whose parent circle is South Shields, who was enrolled as a joint member.

L - R Brendan Leer, Provincial President Province 5, Kevin Gollogly, Vince Reed Junior and Circle President John Cain. www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk October 2011 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 7

ScriptureScripture and and the the New New TranslationTranslation

Fr G Paul Johnstone

ince Vatican II our appreciation of celebrating Christmas. The new enter under my roof, but only say the word close to us, he will heal us. Sthe scriptures has greatly increased; translation more clearly refers to what the and my soul shall be healed.’ The prayer is a our regular listening to them, our angels announced to the shepherds: ‘Glory direct reference to the words of the I have highlighted only two places where reflections on them have enriched us to God in the highest, and on earth peace to centurion, reported in Matthew’s and the new translation, in being faithful to beyond measure. It was once said (even people of goodwill’. And in doing so opens Luke’s gospels, who believes Jesus can the original Latin, reveals more clearly the by some church-goers) that Catholics up fresh areas to explore. The angels were cure his servant but who knows he has scriptural roots of our Mass. And in doing ‘don’t do the Bible’. Given the exalted announcing the wonderful news that not earned the right to have Jesus enter so can lead us into a deeper understand place of the scripture in all our liturgies God was with his people – the Word was so personally into his life. This direct of what we say and sing. There are many this cannot be said now. And in fact it made flesh. translation from the Latin is more more examples for us to discover and was never true. The words of the Mass challenging and more touching than reflect on. constantly make reference to scripture The Gloria, at the beginning of our Mass, is the translation we have been used to. and one of the aims of the new proclaiming that God is today in our midst Hopefully we won’t be reflecting on translation is to make these references – he will be present in his Word; he will centurions and servants at every Mass – to the Word of God clearer. draw intimately close in Holy Communion. but rather on the real circumstances of Lord Jesus…You‘ come in word our own lives; how we live day by day – life We don’t use the Gloria in Advent. Part Before we receive Communion we say, in at home, life at work. We are not worthy to and sacrament to strengthen of the reason for this is that it begins the new translation (and almost as we said have Jesus enter into all this and yet in all us and make us holy. with the Christmas proclamation – and in the very first translation many years humility he will – his humility challenges we want to save this up until we are ago…): ‘Lord I am not worthy that you should our pride. But he loves us, he will draw

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ENGLISH & MATHS TUTORING for Children aged 6-16 In September a UK wide association of independent tuition centres was formed. Each centre provides an individual learning programme for pupils using only fully qualified teachers. 4 of these are in the Lancaster Diocese. For more details or to book a FREE Assessment call: Ian, Preston 01772 555599 Jan, Lancaster 01524 61199 Kate, Blackpool 01253 290949 Michael, Barrow in Furness 01229 831161 Fr. Tad Pacholczyk 8 Fr. Tad Pacholczyk -MAKINGSENSEOUT OFBIOETHIC + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster +October 2011 Fr. Tad Pacholczyk Fr. Tad Pacholczyk Fr. Tad Pacholczyk Fr. Tad Pacholczyk to Chastity and theCall Attractions, Sexual ‘Gay Genes’, Bioethics excuse for acting ontheir dispositions.’” cannot say ‘God made methisway’ asan anyone else. Persons withsuchtendencies more rightto attack their neighbors than predisposition to violence, butthey have no Some people may have agenetic that alcoholics oughtto drink excessively. have ageneticbasis, butitdoesn'tfollow nevertheless undesirable. Alcoholism may of genetically influenced traits thatare Corvino: ‘The fact isthat there are plenty sex marriageadvocate Professor John debate. Onthispoint,we agree withsame consider itultimately irrelevant to this the genesisof same sex attraction, butwe recent article: “We do notpretend to know Sherif Gergis summarises thisideaina inclinations. we chooseto actintheface of those certainly canbeheldresponsible for how responsible for in-borninclinations, we So while we cannotinany way beheld them andordering themto higher goals. mastery of thosedrives by redirecting the animals.Humanfreedom involves the consideration thatdistinguishes usfrom own inner impulsesand drives, akey that we donotlive inbondageto our the strength to actagainst ourselves, so be truly free asahuman meansto have the grainof thoseinclinations.Infact,to free to actotherwise,even directly against our inclinationsandurges, butare always necessity. We are notcompelled to acton that we are notcreatures of sexual truths aboutour humannature -namely, This reminds usof oneof thefundamental compel us. behavioural directions, butthey can't Our genesmay impelusstrongly incertain not have to engageinthosebehaviors. space of freedom within ourselves, anddo towards certain behaviors, we still have a Even if we have genesthatpredispose us identical attractions. genes would beexpected to have strictly by genes,those with identical if sexualattractions were determined experience same-sex attractions; whereas those with same-sex attractionsalso only aboutathird of theidenticaltwinsof studies have already demonstrated that say, eye color or blood type.Multiple twin genetic determinism or ‘hard-wiring’ be something very different from the particular sexualpreference. This would be ageneticpredisposition towards a to most genesgoverning behaviour, would found, allit would likely determine, similar Even if ahypothetical ‘gay gene’ left-handed.” or aleft-handed personto stop being an Asianpersonto stop beingAsian would therefore beequivalent to asking someone to stop beinghomosexual summarised itthis way: “Asking inescapable. Onecommentator behaviour, are inevitable and that thecondition, anditsassociated offered asafurther defense, suggesting possibility of a‘gay gene’ a sinto actontheir sexual desires. The made themthat way thenitmust notbe way.’that homosexuals are P attraction isinborn,andthat eople often surmise thatsame-sex They suppose thatif God ‘naturally gay’ is sometimes were ever or ‘born of, and peace. of chastity, anabidinginner freedom come to acquire, like all who pursue lives in anapprenticeship of self-mastery, they members of thesamesex,andengaging refraining from sexualactivity with called to chastity incontinence. By persons of thesamesex are similarly predominant sexualattractiontoward Those who experience an exclusive or pornographic pursuits. fornication, masturbation, and in continence, steering away from Those who are single will practice chastity that sometimes generates new life.” friendships, onbodily unity of thekind from beingfounded, unlike other union thattakes itsdistinctive character Robert George speaksof “marriageasa embrace inopennessto new life. Professor contraceptive sex,andsharingthemarital each other, avoiding theunchastity of lifelong giftof husbandand wife to conjugal chastity, intheexclusive and Married people will dosoby living consecrated celibacy. a life of consecrated virginity or states of life. Some will dosoby professing chastely inkeeping with their particular and allmen women are called to live integration of sexuality within theperson, Chastity refers to thesuccessful hormones. to chastity, irrespective of genesand discussion, however, istheuniversal call What isof real moralrelevance to the heterosexual or homosexualinclinations. developmental cues, etc.) predisposing factors (genes, hormones, then, if we eventually discovered It would notbeunexpected or surprising, fundamental fallenness. even our DNA,seemto besubject to a biology, our psychological depths,and how our humancondition, our general turmoil of our own disordered inclinations, It isnotdifficult for us tosee,through the well, includingactualsinandoriginalsin. personal constitution andinclinationsas factors thathave influence over our a certain way, itisclear there are other Even thoughGoddidmake eachof usin did post-doctoral work atHarvard. He isa doctorate inneuroscience from Yale and Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned his attraction, butwe consider www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk We donotpretend to know the genesis of samesex it ultimately irrelevant to this debate. priest of thediocese of ” “ Fall River, MA,and Bioethics Center. See National Catholic serves astheDirector of Education atThe www.ncbcenter.org that give riseto S www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk October 2011 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 9

Dear Editor to judge him with the benefit of a experiments by Dr. Josef Mengele at The letter on Darwin written by Mr. Bob century of scientific progress and greater Auschwitz-Birkenau. The experiments Mallinder in the last issue of The Catholic appreciation of the cultural diversity of were intended to advance the Nazi cause Voice of Lancaster , which was abridged the world’s peoples. When he used the and involved Jewish and Gypsy prisoners by the editor, contained the following word ‘savage’, Darwin probably did not many of whom died as a result of what was extract: intend to cause offence. He lived at a time done to them. Our concern is not so much when European supremacy was thought about what exactly Darwin said or meant Secondly, he, like so many of his peers, to be a God-given; when the British nor whether he is to blame for any of the was infatuated by the increase in Empire was in its prime and the superiority racist scientific research that claimed to scientific invention in his time,yet he had of Europeans to the subjugated peoples of have been inspired by his work. Rather, it witnessed the enormous differences the South was thought to be self-evident. is Mr. Mallinder’s take on Darwin that between Europe and the savage races Rightly or wrongly, some have argued that troubles us. in the southern hemisphere. Darwin gave modern racism its scientific respectability and his writings were the Mr. Mallinder robustly challenges various Your letters The words that we have put in bold are driving force behind scientific experiments aspects of Darwin’s position but, apparently, extremely offensive as they denigrate all first carried out by the Germans on is happy to assert views that might have How to send us the non-white peoples of the southern conquered Herero and Namaqua prisoners been commonplace in Europe in the your letters: hemisphere. They are all written off as in concentration camps in the first decade nineteenth century and held by many Write to: ‘savage’, i.e. primitive, barbarous, fierce, of the twentieth century in German decent people, possibly including Darwin, The Editor, uncivilised, uncouth — take your pick. Southwest Africa (present-day Namibia). but are thoroughly discredited today. 99, Commonside, Today, use of this word expresses The experiments were intended to show Ansdell, unadulterated contempt. scientifically the inferiority of African Yours sincerely, Lytham St. Annes, peoples and to justify their subjugation by Francis Katamba FY8 4DJ. Of course, controversy surrounds a superior race. As we know, this line of Chair Diocesan Racial Justice Group Darwin’s views on race, but he was a work was later continued and intensified Fr Hugh Pollock Email to: man of his time and it would not be fair in a series of notorious medical Chair Faith & Justice Commission [email protected]

Dear Editor railway line in the late 1840s. While Fr. this we raised some £1,600. I should like • Please keep your letters concise Some of your readers will know that the Haydock lived to see the church opened, on behalf of the Parish Pastoral Council to (max 300 words), parish of St. Catherine's, Penrith with the rectory was only completed in 1853, thank most warmly all those seasonal • Include your full name and address St. Wulstan's, Alston has a project after his death. The parish has long visitors who generously helped us get • Letters should not include any underway. The small church and rectory outgrown these facilities and we plan further on our way. From the outset we personal criticism or attacks in Penrith were planned and largely various alterations and a new hall, to be promised to publish the names of the • The editor reserves the right to: built by the remarkable Fr. George Leo called ‘The Haydock Community Centre’. prizewinners and details can be found on - amend or shorten letters or to Haydock. In addition to producing the our website: www.stcatherinepenrith.org.uk refuse to publish them (no ‘Haydock Bible’ and several other works, At the beginning of the summer we correspondence to discuss decisions he was also instrumental in quelling launched a raffle as one of a series of Yours taken will be entered into) fierce riots among the ‘navvies’ during fundraising endeavours, and parishioners Professor Peter Roebuck - publish a response if deemed the construction of the west-coast and many others bought tickets. Through Chairman, PPC appropriate

Dear Editor So, Friday night in Lourdes at last I enclose a poem I wrote whilst on the The hotel served a fine repast. diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes this Our rooms were great, no troubles here, year. I am almost 85 years of age and Ged’s organising good and clear. was in your dear mother’s form at The rain held off on Saturday Winckley Square. May I say how much I With just the odd light shower enjoy all the articles in the ‘Catholic We prayed the Stations of the Cross Voice’. Grey clouds deepened by the hour.

Yours sincerely We mustered for Sunday Mass Gertrude Lonsdale, Preston With pilgrims from all nations The heavens opened, rain fell fast But dampened not our celebrations. To Lourdes by Coach July 2011 As evening came, we all set out Once more for the Domain We started off – though rather glum Togged out with macs and waterproofs Because we’d heard Ged couldn’t come To shield us from torrential rain. The coach was late, she’d lost her way “Lord help us” one was heard to say. A torchlight procession it was not “However will we get through France? No candles stayed alight for long She’ll lead us a merry dance” The heavy rains just pelted down But very soon Graham took over But dampened not one Ave song. And drove us in good time to Dover And so to Monday morning – Wet Our evening stop for B & B Anointing of the sick took place Was not quite what it ought to be. Was this the wettest day as yet? All rooms equipped with Double Bed! Of glorious sunshine, not a trace. Not to the joy of Brian and Ed. So, after lunch we climbed aboard Some others too were rather miffed The coach, Gavarnie bound for fun But Anne soon sorted out the rift The scenery wet but beautiful She moved some here and others there It would look better in the sun. ‘Til all could sleep without a care. So Tuesday came, t’was pouring down An early start on Friday morn We gathered at the podium shrine Past fields of sunflowers and of corn. Our hymn sheets soaked and so were we We had a stop in time for snacks Was our morale in sharp decline? And time for Graham to relax. But after lunch, we’re out again Before we ate, the Reverend John, To Pius the Xth, all underground (He hadn’t got his collar on) The Blessed Sacrament procession Conducted a lovely way-side ‘do’ there took place And we received Communion too. With voices raised – a wonderful sound.

Continued on Page 12 >>> 10 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + October 2011 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk

All Photos courtesy of bishop’s blog.

Bishop Michael Campbell OSA celebrated his Ruby Jubilee in the priesthood on Priestly Jubilees16 September.

ishop Michael was joined by other Bcelebrating jubilarians for a Thanksgiving Mass thanksgiving Mass and a celebratory and gathering for the meal afterwards. Two priest jubilarians celebratory meal. were unable to attend, but the years of priesthood of those present came to almost five hundred years.

We give thanks to Almighty God for all those who serve Him in the ministry of priesthood but especially those with jubilees this year:

Diamond Jubilee Ruby Jubilee Silver Jubilee Fr. Joseph I. Bamber Cn. Dunstan Cooper Fr. Robert Halshaw - 19 May 1951 - 6 March 1971 - 30 August 1986 Cn. Thomas Dakin Fr. Edward Gannon - 22 December 1951 - 6 March 1971 Cn. John Gibson Golden Jubilee - 6 March 1971 Ad multos annos Fr. John Barron Fr. Peter Sayer - 27 May 1961 - 7 March 1971 Father, unworthy as I am, You have chosen me to share in Cn. Nicholas Fr. Norman the eternal priesthood of Christ and the ministry of your McCardle Johnston - 25 February 1961 - 11 July 1971 Church. May I be an ardent but gentle servant of Your gospel Fr. Harry Holden Fr. Terence Rodgers and Your sacraments Grant this through Christ our Lord. - 27 May 1961 - 11 December 1971

Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost Daughters of Wisdom Celebrate Centenary October 2nd at 6.00pm rchbishop Vincent Nichols has paid Our Lady and St Wilfrid, Warwick Bridge, Carlisle Atribute to a 100 years of service by the Daughters of Wisdom, La Sagesse Sisters, before a packed congregation Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost at Romsey Abbey in Hampshire. October 9th at 12.00hrs The Archbishop of Westminster delivered St Pius X, Ormsgill, Barrow-in-Furness the homily at the centenary Mass which took place on Sunday, June 26th,to celebrate the foundation of the province Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost of Great Britain and Ireland. of the Congregation. The sisters also work in the Philippines said: “The centenary is October 18th at 3.00pm in support of the local parish community. special for everyone. The Daughters of Reflecting on the Congregation’s Members of the order are found Wisdom today continue to reach out to the St Andrew and Blessed George contribution the Archbishop said: “The working with the poorest of the poor marginalised and to help those who don’t Haydock,Cottam fundamental inspiration of the congregation on all five continents. have a voice. In my case when God called remains the same: that of showing the I eventually had to respond because he Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost compassionate face of Jesus to those in need. Sister Catherine Elizabeth is nearly 100 doesn’t give up.” This is their wonderful charism, the gift of years old and was the oldest sister October 23rd at 12.15pm the founders still expressed today.” attending the celebration. She began There are eight Daughters of Wisdom Cathedral of St Peter, Lancaster her noviciate in 1929 and said: “I have so in the diocese of Lancaster. Seen in the The Congregation of the Daughters of many treasured memories, not least my picture above left are Srs Kathleen, Wisdom was founded by Blessed Marie profession day on February 2nd 1932. At Catherine, Joan and Mary who are in October 23rd at 12.30pm Louise Trichet under the guidance of Louis that time God was just saying to me ‘come’ the parish of Our Lady Star of the Sea, St Mary of Furness, Barrow-in-Furness de Montfort in the early 18th century. In and I’ve no regrets. I was happy then and Lytham St Annes. Sr Anne Margaret and Romsey their charism finds expression in I still am.” Sr Patricia are in the parish of St Clare, With Papal Approval - Everyone is welcome Marie Louise House, a nursing home for Fulwood Preston. Srs Norbert and the elderly. The sisters also run Wisdom Meanwhile novice Siobhan Boyle, who has Philomena are in the parish of Our Lady Centre which exists to share the spirituality just returned from a pastoral experience and St Herbert Windermere. www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk October 2011 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 11 DioceseAroundDioceseDiocese theDiocese DioceseDioceseDioceseDiocese Diocese

Growing Love Mass of for the Outdoors Thanksgiving hildren at a Fulwood nursery now have a secret garden Cthanks to a £20,000 grant, which has helped transform and extend their play area.

n July, the community of Our Lady’s Catholic High School, Oak House Nursery, which is part of St Pius X Preparatory School IPreston, gathered in the school’s Sports Hall to give thanks on Garstang Road, has installed a new impact absorbing surface, and praise to God, with their end of year Mass of thanksgiving. introduced new play equipment and completely redesigned the The opening hymn of praise to God the Father, Son and Holy extended space. Nursery manager Gill Moss said: “We really are Spirit, reminded everyone that ‘there is hope in your name’. delighted to have received this grant, which has allowed us to After the careful and prayerful preparations for Mass it provide an outdoor area that will enhance all aspects of the became clear that it was essential to trust in the Word of God. children’s development. We’ve introduced lots of different features, including a small secret garden where the children can make dens or In the Gospel, the parable of the wise and foolish builders, simply go for some quiet time.” illustrated the importance of listening and responding to the Word. The community of Our Lady’s certainly listened and The new area, which was officially opened by school governor responded in prayer, music drama and dance as they built their Mike Lavelle, has been extended onto the grass to provide more houses ‘on firm foundations’; our foundation is Jesus and his space for play and a ramp has replaced the original steps to allow teaching and ‘a renewal of faith in the Word’. easier access. As well as sand and water there is a sensory area and a small garden where the children can learn about growing The parable was depicted in an impressive display of houses, plants. A covered trellis pergola will be used on wet days. Miss Martin's built on rock around the walls of the Sports Hall; each brick Moss said: “The staff here is totally committed to encouraging The Funeral Directors represented a member of the school community, supported on children to use the outdoors whatever the weather and the pergola 188, Tulketh Brow, Ashton-on-Ribble, Preston rocks... for God is our rock... ‘and strength in whom I trust’. will help us to do just that.” 1, Stonebridge Parade, Preston Road, Longridge Tel. 01772-733007 or 01772-782121 Proprietor W. Martin Wootton The celebration of Mass was the perfect end to the academic The grant was awarded to improve the quality and learning Dedicated and Blessed Chapels of Rest year and inspired everyone to be witnesses ‘appointed’ by the environment and support delivery of the Early Years foundation Golden Charter Pre-Paid Funeral Plans Lord and ‘anointed’ by the Holy Spirit. Eileen Vause curriculum. Joyce Bishop The complete funeral service from a private family owned and run firm

110 years old and still going strong...

n June 170 past pupils, including FCJ sisters, gathered at attended the Centenary celebrations there were still massive ICardinal Newman College Preston to mark the 110th changes to see. anniversary of the founding of the Lark Hill Association. Following lunch Bishop Michael took the opportunity to circulate In 1978 the three Catholic Grammar schools in Preston, Preston and chat to all those present, which was much appreciated by Catholic College, Winckley Square HCJ Convent and Lark Hill FCJ people especially those who had travelled in from other Dioceses. Convent came together to form what is now known as Cardinal Newman College and is the highest performing 6th form college Canon Cooper (President) led an extremely in the country. short but efficient AGM after which guided tours of the college took place, giving Bishop Michael Campbell OSA celebrated Mass and preached people a chance to reminisce about their an inspiring homily based on St. John's Gospel (ch.15). There school days. Established 1839 • Memorials • Renovations • Lettering • Marble • Granite were three concelebrants, Canon Dunstan Cooper (Association • Slate • Stone of all kinds, colour & designs • President), Fr. Gerard Dakin and Fr. Robert Billing. Bishop Michael The Committee would like to thank the Wray Brothers are long established monumental masons said “I was inspired by the wonderful atmosphere in the chapel and college for all the support they give highly regarded for quality of their workmanship and the enthusiastic singing led by the talented college choir.” to the Association especially the personal service. Traditional Hand Cut Letters Chaplaincy Team, they are also very Proprietors: S. A. Edwards, At the end of Mass Bishop Michael blessed us with a relic of grateful for the generous donations M. A. Edwards, G. Edwards Blessed Dominic Barberi. The relic was owned by Sr. Claudia FCJ to the Lark Hill Bursary fund which 51a Layton Road, Layton, Blackpool FY3 8EB and given to the college by the Association. A delicious lunch supports Cardinal Newman students Tel/Fax: 01253 392620 followed, prepared by the college catering team. For some this on Pilgrimage to Lourdes each year. was their first return visit since leaving the school, for others who Canon Dunstan Cooper 12 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + October 2011 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk

Your letters continued, from pg9...

A list we’d made of many names Of all the folk for whom we prayed A lovely service we then held Down by the Grotto, we all stayed. The rain poured down on our small group Our massive candle decorated With flowers, ribbons, and all our names Was put in place, as we all waited. Poland 2011 And so to Wednesday , our last full day The sun came out, the day turned warm Our farewell Mass, and Lucy’s hymn Put one and all in better form. id-August saw more than forty pilgrims from Lancaster support of the Orphans and curry aid. I have now returned from On Wednesday night ‘twas party time Mdiocese travel to Poland, led by Father Alex from Our pilgrimage to Poland with my wife, family and Father Alex. Lancaster pilgrims met together Lady's in Appleby. We stayed at the pastoral lodge, next to the We laughed and joked, were entertained shrine of the Divine Mercy near Krakow, visited Wadowice, The only difference is that I went on my bike via Hungary and But - walking home again – wet weather. childhood home of Blessed John Paul II and went to the Slovakia meeting with the others in Kracow. We visited many So many other things occurred this week beautiful church of Our Lady of Fatima in Zakopane, built interesting places with the main focus of our trip celebrating the Too numerous to mention now in thanksgiving for John Paul's recovery from the attempted Feast of the Assumption at the Basilica of the Black Madonna in But here’s a few important thanks assassination. Czestochowa with tens of thousands of pilgrims. I’d like to fit them in somehow. Anne’s organising work for us We also went to Czestochowa to celebrate the feast of the I remember reading in the Catholic Voice about a new statue of The ‘Trolley Dollies’ serving Assumption. Pilgrims from all over Poland converge on Christ, taller than that of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janero. And, can’t forget Leo’s song and speech Czestochowa during the weekend of 15th August and we joined Leaving the pilgrims behind I rode north to His love for all of us unswerving. pilgrims from Father Alex's home parish of Jedlinsk, and led by the small town of Swiebodzin. the town band, proudly walked to the monastery of Jasna Gora Our thanks go out to Deacon John where the venerated picture of the Black Madonna is kept. Riding through lovely countryside in bright So busy every day sunshine I crested yet another hill to be He led our prayers and services Other highlights were rafting through the Dunajec gorge, a visit greeted with a sight that lifted my heart, Throughout our Lourdes stay. to the famous salt mines of Wieliczka (a world heritage site) and a there dominating the skyline is the tour of the historic centre of Krakow. Pilgrim Paul Holroyd added completed statue with welcoming arms God willing we will be back next year. “Over the past years the ‘Catholic Voice’ has covered a couple of outstreched. It is surely a monumental items for me. First was my charity motorcycle trip, 14 countries in 16 sight, just the landscaping needs to be days and then earlier this year my trip to India with Jessie Oddy in completed”. Mary Mancey-Jones Knock 2011

hirty people left St Ignatius Church, Benediction, rosary and blessing of TPreston on 27th July for an action pious objects. packed week. We sailed from Holyhead and had an overnight stay at Dublin City On Monday we visited Ballintubber Abbey, University (DCU). Following a tour of the so fascinating, it draws people from all city and lunch at a great restaurant in over the world; then drove to Lough Mask, Balinasloe, we celebrated Mass with a a place of outstanding beauty. We stopped beloved, former Ignatian, Fr Ambrose at a great pub for lunch in Clonbur which McNamee OCD of Loughrea, County was showing a large screen version of the Galway. John Wayne classic – The Quiet Man. It was thrilling to watch knowing we were Next day we had an outing to Achill Island about to go to Cong where some of the and the wonderful beach at Keel, followed scenes were shot. by a visit to the 1840’s Deserted Village. On Saturday afternoon we visited Westport, The following day we left Knock, had a a popular tourist town and then went on picnic lunch and a visit to the life size to Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s Stations in the beautiful grounds at sacred mountain. A church was built in 1905 Multifarnum. Back to Dublin and a great St Ignatius, at the summit, which took approximately meal at Maples Restaurant before our Preston one year to build at a cost of £100. Back overnight stay at DCU and an early celebrate in Knock we had Stations of the Cross ferry with time for a first, short stay in Corpus Christi followed by Holy Hour. We loved our Llandudno. We had lovely weather with a African priests who celebrated the Masses throughout and a thoroughly enjoyable procession this year. They brought some indefinable week – better than ever! qualities to the celebrations which were quite brilliant. If you would like to join the trip next year, reserve the last week in July in your diary Sunday is a Holy Day in Knock and we were now and please contact Anne Oastler at blessed to have anointing of the sick, a St Ignatius Church, Preston. concelebrated Mass in the Basilica, Helen Tomlinson www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk October 2011 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 13

Please pray for more vocations to the The Joy of the Priesthood priesthood and religious life:

Name: Fr Andrew Allman Ordained: 16 July 2005 Almighty Father, Currently: Assistant Priest at St Bernadette’s, Blackpool, Guide us to find followers of your way. Chaplain to Blackpool Victoria Hospital and Diocesan Vocations Director Enable them to focus on the way God e are sometimes reminded that the word ‘Gospel’ means wants them to be, not how they feel W‘good news’. For me, when I hear some good news I can’t wait to tell people – and that’s true of the Gospel too! they should be.

One of my greatest joys as a priest is sharing the message of Encourage them to know that to follow salvation. I love preaching at Mass, speaking about Christ and teaching others about our faith. This sharing the Gospel is about your ways is both a vocation and more than words. I remember once, soon after my ordination, a privilege, not something to be being called to see a woman who had just found out she was terminally ill. I heard her confession, anointed her and gave her undertaken lightly. Holy Communion. “You have made me very happy”, she told me. I only met her that one time and don’t even remember her name, May your chosen ones be guided by the but it strikes me that no one other than a priest could have brought her happiness on that day. Through the sacraments I examples of all the Saints and Apostles. was able to share the Gospel with her. It wasn’t really me who had Give them faith when they confused and made her “very happy” – rather, it was the Lord who had worked faced with conflict, hope in times of through me to console her and give her hope that day. What a gift it was – for both of us! trouble, and full of love for you.

If you want to talk about the possibility of becoming a priest, please contact Fr Andrew Allman, Vocations Director, on Guide them through times ahead which 01253 508585 or email: [email protected] may be difficult and challenging but will bring them great rewards in the future.

OH GOD! Assist them all to grow in When God gave out brains, I thought he said trains - holiness, knowledge and to So I missed mine. gain a deeper understanding When God gave out looks, I thought he said books - of your truth. So I didn't want any. When God gave out noses, I thought he said roses - May they share this So I ordered a big red one. knowledge and When God gave out chins, I thought he said gins - So I ordered a double. understanding with When God gave out legs, I thought he said kegs - those who need and So I ordered two big fat ones. depend on them. When God gave out heads, I thought he said beds - So I asked for a big soft one. Amen.

Oh God I am in a mess!! (by Thomas Ferguson)

Profession of Sr. Mary Johanna Irwin Ascension Sunday 2011 “There is no dwelling together in unity unless it be in love, love which brings together those with a common way of life under the same roof.”

his quote comes from the writings of and Fr. Des Hanrahan, S.M, a former of God and of the Order.” The response of monastic life, to live out the call to all TGilbert of Hoyland, a 12th parish priest of Sr. Mary Johanna’s gave the Prioress General assures the sister of Christians to live a new life in Christ. It century English Cistercian monk and in the homily. We were joined by nearly all God’s faithfulness in the living out of her continued with the welcome into essence, is the ideal of our community the English Bernardines, the Prioress monastic vocation, “The Lord has called community as the Solemnly Professed life today. As Bernardine Cistercians we General of the Order as well as Sr. Mary you and will not fail you”. After the vows sisters welcome Sr. Mary Johanna as a follow the Rule of St Benedict and Johanna’s family and friends. Over 100 were read, Sr. Mary Johanna sang her lifelong member of the Order, expressing our Constitutions, living out the people were there to witness to her “Suscipe”, a prayer expressing confidence their promise of mutual prayer and Gospel values in our life together in commitment and joy in following Christ. in God and a spirit of joyful self giving. All support. It was a very moving part of community. Love of Christ is the the sisters then renewed their own joyful the ceremony. common denominator in our calling to The journey from postulancy to solemn self giving and join in with the verse this life, and it is this same love that profession lasts about 7 – 8 years, during “Uphold me, O Lord, according to your Word, The Mass was followed by a celebratory called Sr. Mary Johanna to make her which there are various stages to pass and I shall live, let not my hope be in vain.” buffet lunch with the Bishop, priests, Solemn Vows on the Feast of the through. However it is not over at Solemn sisters, family and friends. It was a day of Ascension at the Monastery of Our Lady Profession, in fact it is just the beginning! Part of the ceremony involved the giving great joy and celebration for Sr. Mary of Hyning in Warton. Bishop Michael Sr. Mary Johanna asked at the beginning of the monastic cowl, a symbol of the Johanna, the Bernardines, and family Campbell, OSA was the main celebrant of the profession ceremony for “the mercy grace of conversion for the whole of her and friends. Sr. Michaela Toulmin 14 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + October 2011 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk SaintsSaintsSaints Saints SaintsSaintsSaints SaintsSaints Feast Day: 15th October

eresa, known to her contemporaries constant watch over her and her work by Tas Teresa of the child Jesus, was born the Inquisition, her dedication never in 1515 in the Castilian city of Avila. She flagged and she wrote several books on was a visionary, mystic, prayer and accounts of her life and the Teresa subject of a famous statue by the foundation of her convents. Baroque artist Bernini and one of only three women to be declared Doctors of The harassment and opposition from the the Church. parent branch of the Order was unceasing until, in 1580, two years before her death, Teresa was one of twelve children in a the two ways of Carmelite life were Teresa of Avila Teresa pious and respected lower nobility family. separated into different Orders. Teresa’s of Avila Most of her brothers went out to Spain’s Carmelites had discarded their shoes, as new American colonies….Argentina, Peru, had the earliest Carmelites many years Mexico…as conquistadores. Her mother before. They became known as ‘Discalced’, died when she was fourteen and, as of her un-shooed, to distinguish them from the two sisters, one died at a young age while ‘Calced’ Carmelites. The term has her older half-sister married. remained despite the harsh climate of Spain necessitating the wearing of After her mother’s death, Teresa was footwear. brought up in a convent of Augustinian nuns. Aged twenty, she entered the Saint Teresa’s position among writers on Carmelite monastery of the Incarnation at mystical theology is unique. In all her Avila. She felt unworthy and dissatisfied writings on this subject she deals with with life in the order until in 1535 she her personal experiences, which a deep began to experience God in a new way in insight and analytical gifts enabled her to prayer. Her practice of a mental prayer, explain clearly. She died October 4th, her visions and raptures were met with 1582 aged 67 and was canonised in 1622. opposition and disbelief by her sisters in the convent, by her priest confessors and Pope Paul VI added both Saint Teresa of by the town fathers of Avila. However, Avila and Saint Catherine of Siena to the strong reassurances were given to her in roster of Doctors of the Church. In 1997, Monday 3rd October 2011 1555 by Saint Peter of Alcantara and later Pope John Paul named Theresa of Lisieux in 1560 by Jesuit Saint Francis Borgia. as the third woman Doctor of the Church. Jenny Phillips 6.30pm to 9pm Against strong resistance, she left the convent with a small group of nuns who “Christ has no body now, but yours. had accepted her leadership and founded No hands, no feet on earth, but yours. the new Convent of Saint Joseph, still Yours are the eyes through which in her home city of Avila. This new Christ looks compassion into the world. community was based on the oldest Yours are the feet with which Christ walks traditional rules of the Carmelite Order. to do good. Yours are the hands with which Christ blesses the world.” Teresa wrote for her nuns in the instruction of the practice of prayer, her book, ‘The Way of Perfection’. Despite its Let nothing trouble you, title it was a down to earth and practical let nothing frighten you. book. Aided by Saint John of the Cross, a priest of the Carmelite Order of men, they All things are passing; established the Reform for both the men’s God never changes. and women’s orders. Teresa embarked on strenuous journeys on mules and in Patience obtains all things. primitive ox- carts to found and He who possesses God requently visit 17 new convents of nuns lacks nothing: who followed her reform vision of the Carmelite life, alongside 15 new God alone suffices monasteries of the men’s order. Despite a St Terese of Avila www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk October 2011 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 15

Praying the Our Father

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who When we say this prayer we are speaking to our Father trespass against us. in heaven. He knows each one of us and wants us to We say sorry to God for the times we have been love Him and those around us. naughty and ask Him to help us to make up with anyone we have fallen out with. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. And lead us not into temptation. We ask our Father in heaven to help We ask God to help us to be good and the us to live as He would want us to. help to say No if we are tempted to do something that we know is wrong Give us this day our daily bread. We all need food and water to live but But deliver us from evil. lots of children around the world suffer We ask God to always protect us from dreadful famine. We pray that we will always be anything that is bad and to help us grow in His love prepared to share what we have with others. for us. Amen.

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Water of Life

A personal reflection from Jean Turner, Walton le Dale, Preston on this years’ diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes.

hen we arrived in Lourdes we had a in the Underground Basilica. The the scent of roses from the Holy Oil. In the the Pillar of fire and Moses. Wwonderful opening Mass in the procession of deacons, priests and Afternoon the coach took us on a trip to chapelWater of St Joseph. bishops solemnly approached the altar ofGarvanie where we had timeLife to shop. We joined with Westminster for a Mass carrying incense and I was transported Apparently the rain was not as bad as at the Podium, again it was very wet but The gentle kindly Bishop Campbell gave a back to ancient Rome as it reminded me in Lourdes. Westminster had come prepared with homily about being ‘all together’. As I am of the cloud by day and Exodus. large red and white umbrellas. very deaf and my hearing aid plays up I On Tuesday a few of us went to the Baths. seem to only get the gist of things. After At night we joined the Torchlight Some-one said Lourdes is the bridge On Wednesday we had the Mass of Mass we had a photo shoot in sunshine. Procession – Lancaster Diocese led the between heaven and earth and I certainly Farewell and a Party at night. We did a Then Our Lady seemed to want to shower procession following a large tableau of felt this. In the afternoon we took our send up of The Old Thyme Dance - with us with rain as well as blessings. our Lady of Lourdes. Then the rains came - candle to the Grotto and Deacon John apology to Joyce Grenfell, it had to be not slow drops more like a monsoon. I Smith said prayers over it and we prayed seen to be believed. I sang ‘The Two After we did the low stations I was taken was in a wheelchair and was well covered for those who had died and for everyone Preston Mashers’. There were many round the Grotto and it came into my mind up. Out came the ponchos, umbrellas at home. The Blessed Sacrament friends new and old on our coach but I'll that the spring was the only living thing and cagoules! Procession in the Basilica clouded with mention just two, little Leo our star and Our Lady has left us - the statue is stone, incense was a special time. little Lucy who signed ‘I the Lord of Sea the altar is stone but she has left us living On Monday we had the Anointing of the and Sky’ for us. water to cleanse and refresh us. sick. It was so wet some of the sick went After this I was taken to the Chapel of from the hotel on the coach to the Chapel Adoration and when I saw the Blessed Words cannot describe my happiness, the On Sunday we had the International Mass of Notre Dame. The Chapel was filled with Sacrament in a candle of gold, I thought of nearest adjective I can get is HEAVENLY.

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