Newyddiadur Swyddogol Esgobaeth Caerdydd Issue 274 October 2019 Official Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Cardiff

Pick up your FREE Catholic People copy today What a fantastic day - our new Saint!

canonization is no doubt a cause of joy for the Universal Church but it is particularly companions, the English which took place on 15thAugust important for those of the new saint’s native land. Cardinal John Henry Newman will Congregation of the Oratory was 2001 through the sole Abe declared a saint on October 13th of this year; his name being added to the established. This same community intercession of the Cardinal. Pope illustrious roll of the saints of the British Isles. would move to Birmingham where Benedict XVI beatified him on John Henry Newman spent the September 19th2010 at a Newman was born in London on February remainder of his years. ceremony in Birmingham. 21st1801, his life covering a period of great social, economic and even religious change. Created a Cardinal The second miracle He was brought up in Anglicanism and from He was a great man of letters, a For Newman to be declared a an early age developed a great love of prayer poet, a philosopher, but above all saint a second miracle was and the Bible. At the age of fifteen Newman he was a priest. His participation necessary and came about on had a religious experience which he referred in the priesthood of Christ was May 15th2013 with the to as his “first conversion.” It centred on a lived out in the particular vocation instantaneous healing of a young deep realisation of God’s presence and him as of the Oratory. His devotedness to mother and her unborn baby. This His creature. this calling was such that when miracle was officially recognised The following year he went up to Oxford and Leo XIII made him a Cardinal in by the Church in February 2019. would be part of University life for the next 25 1879 he asked permission to Subsequently it was announced years. remain in Birmingham and not on July 1st that John Henry move to Rome which was the Newman would be declared a Nature of faith usual custom. Eleven years later saint in October. In 1825 John Henry was ordained to the Cardinal Newman died, on August Cardinal Newman was man of Anglican ministry and was well known for his 11th1890. great intellect whose reception diligent pastoral work especially with the sick Those who were attracted to the into the Church caused much and the poor. In addition to his parish duties Cardinal’s legacy paid most distress in English Society but also he soon began to lecture and tutor students of attention to him as a scholar and it prompted many conversions to Oriel College but after a few years was not until the 1950’s that more the Catholic Faith both here and relinquished this role. and more people began to write of abroad. This may not seem an especially important his personal holiness. The Cause His writings are as relevant now event but it did enable Newman to for his Canonization began in just as they were in his own time. concentrate more on study particularly the Together with likeminded friends a series of 1958. In 1991 John Henry But most of all it is his intercession Church Fathers (the teachers of early pamphlets was produced between 1833 and Newman was declared Venerable before the throne of Almighty God Christianity). This opened up to him the 1841 dealing with various theological by the Church meaning that he that should give us our greatest universal nature of the faith and the means questions to encourage the hoped for renewal. had lived out the virtues of faith, joy. May his prayers encourage whereby this same faith was preserved and The last of these tracts discussed the Catholic hope and charity to a heroic unity within the Church and transmitted through history. These origins of much of Anglican teaching and was degree together with the human strengthen the desire of those considerations influenced both his thinking considered unacceptable by the University virtues of fortitude, justice, considering reception into and the nature of his preaching. such that Newman left, to begin a new chapter prudence and temperance. communion with Christ’s Church. Newman’s style might be considered in his life. In July 2009 the Holy See unusual to a modern audience but he was Our soon-to-be-declared Saint moved to confirmed a miraculous healing An Oratorian considered one of the most influential Littlemore, a few miles from Oxford, and preachers of his time. He was able to established a monastic-like community with captivate his listener, by his understanding of five friends. It was an austere life centred on human nature and great knowledge of prayer, fasting and study. During these years Scripture, to such a degree that many Newman became increasingly convinced that considered Newman to be speaking directly to the Catholic Church held the teachings them in the depths of their being. nearest to the spirit of early Christianity. He was finally received into the Church in Second conversion October 1845 by Blessed Dominic Barberi. He On a trip to Italy in 1833 Newman fell seriously then went to Rome for a period of study and ill. On his recovery he recognised that God was ordained to the Priesthood. In discerning was calling him to fulfil a special task in how he would live out his ministry Newman England. This “second conversion” experience completed the Oratorian novitiate becoming a led him to give himself ever more to the Lord spiritual son of St. Philip Neri. and strengthened his desire to bring about a On his return to England Newman went to renewal of the Church of England. Maryvale where, with many of his Littlemore Prince of Wales attends canonisation

The Prince of Wales will attend the canonisation of Cardinal John Henry Newman on Sunday 13th October at the Vatican. Following the service, His Royal Highness will attend a reception at the Pontifical Urban College. Cardinal Newman studied at the College while preparing to become a Catholic priest. Cardinal Newman will be the first English saint since the Forty Martyrs were canonised in 1970, and the first British saint since St John Ogilvie in 1976. Following the announcement, the Archbishop of Westminster, Cardinal Nichols said: “We are delighted that HRH The Prince of Wales will lead the UK delegation for the canonisation of Cardinal Newman on 13 October. Cardinal Newman’s exploration of faith, depth of personal courage, intellectual clarity and cultural sensitivity make him a deeply admired follower of Christ. His ministry, especially among the poor, is a permanent sign of the Church’s pastoral compassion and a challenge to us all today. As one who has been a lifelong champion of the spiritual in everyday life, to promote understanding between faiths, and who has sought to alleviate poverty and disadvantage through his charitable work, The Prince of Wales is particularly qualified to mark the canonisation, which will be such a significant and joyful moment for this country”. 2 CATHOLIC PEOPLE

ARCHBISHOP Police and Crime Commissioner GEORGE’S ENGAGEMENTS to speak at Cornerstone event From its earliest days, the Cornerstone was OCTOBER 2019 planned as a space where the Church and the State would engage in dialogue. It 1 Launch of Mater Ecclesiae Pontifical Faculty, Westminster. 4.30pm should be a place where we can discuss the issues of the moment with those of 2 Talk by Sir Alun Michael on ‘Prevent’ strategy, Cornerstone. 7.00p, other faiths and those with no professed 4 Mass at Poor Clares Convent, Much Birch. Feast of St. Francis belief. It provides an opportunity for us to connect with those involved in policy 11.30am decisions that affect our daily lives. 11 Travels to Rome for Canonisation of St. John Henry Newman. 12.15 In this spirit, Archbishop George has invited 15 Ecumenical Commission meeting, Rhayader. 12.00 Rt Hon. Alun Michael, Police and Crime Commissioner for South Wales, to talk about 16 Meeting with Charity Commission. ABH 11.30am his work with particular reference to the 17 Chapter Mass and Meeting of Consultors 12.45pm Prevent strategy. Our society is facing enormous challenges Mass for Catholic Teachers, St. David’s Cathedral. 7.00pm Alun Michael spent a number of years at this time with a greater tendency for people working in youth and community development to move to more extreme positions. What is 18 Visit to St. Michael’s School, Newport. 10am before entering politics, first in local the responsibility of those who profess a faith Wales Care Award Gala Dinner, City Hall. 6.30pm government and then, as the successor to Sir to counter this drift to extremism? What are the 19 Launch of “The God Who Speaks” , St. Helen’s, Caerphilly, 3.00pm. James Callaghan, as MP for Cardiff South and forces that young people have to contend Penarth. with? How do we maintain a just society? 20 Mass and Blessing of Shrine. Abercynon. 9.00am He was appointed Secretary of State for These are questions for people from all 21 Meeting with Clergy of Diocese of Menevia,Camarthen. 11.00am Wales in the government of Tony Blair before religions as well as those from secular Meeting of Diocesan Trustees. ABH 2.00pm becoming the founding First Minister of Wales humanist traditions. in the Welsh Assembly in 1999. The talk is open to all and admission is free. 23 St. Francis Leprosy Guild Mass, Farm St. London. 6.00pm As Police and Crime Commissioner, Alun It would be of particular interest to those Michael has responsibility for the strategic working in the fields of policing and of criminal oversight of law and order in South Wales. This justice. It should appeal to those involved in Your Catholic People… includes the Prevent strategy which is the community development and youth work, and Westminster government’s work on combating anyone whose work brings them into contact Editorial Dr James Campbell-Editor. Archbishop’s House, 43 Cathedral Road, Cardiff, CF11 9HD the radicalisation of young people. It seeks to with young people. Tel: (029) 2022 0411 Fax: (029) 2037 9036 Email: [email protected] and Articles to be received challenge the narrative of those engaged in The talk will be given at 7.00 p.m.on by the 20th of the month for inclusion in the following month terrorist activity, to support organisations where Wednesday, October 2nd 2019 at the Advertising Tel: 0151 709 7567 there are risks of radicalisation and protect Cornerstone, Charles St., Cardiff CF10 2SF. Designed & Produced Mersey Mirror, Suite 4, Pacific Chambers, 11-13 Victoria Street, Liverpool L2 vulnerable people. Refreshments will be available 5QQ. Tel: 0151 709 7567 Fax: 0151 707 1678 Email: [email protected] Submission of photographs Please note photographs submitted for publication must be in jpeg or pdf format. Those in Word format cannot be accepted Pastoral Letter TO BE READ IN ALL CHURCHES AND CHAPELS OVER THE WEEKEND OF 29/30 SEPTEMBER 2019 -1600th ANNIVERSARY OF THE DEATH OF ST. JEROME

PHILLIP TOM & SONS Dear Brothers and Sisters the scriptures. The three yearly Pope Francis in October. cycle of the Lectionary which we FUNERAL DIRECTORS “The word of God is something hear during the Liturgy of the 3. SHARING THE WORD …a family business that cares alive and active: it cuts like any Word Sunday by Sunday has God’s word is not just for double-edged sword but more been a precious gift in the life of ourselves, but needs to be shared finely: it can slip through the place the Church as it nourishes the life with those amongst whom we live • Owned and operated by a Catholic family with over where the soul is divided from the and faith of its’ people. During this and work. Most obviously this is 25 years experience to understand your needs spirit, or joints from the marrow; it coming year, we are invited as a done through the care and can judge the secret emotions Church and as individuals to example we offer to ourselves • Chosen Funeral Directors to the Sisters of St Joseph, and thoughts. No created thing engage afresh with the word of and others in the challenges of can hide from him; everything is God in the following ways: everyday living. Not merely caring Llantarnam Abbey for over 25 years uncovered and open to the eyes for those who are poor in body, • We are Licenced by the British Institute of Funeral of the one to whom we must give 1. CELEBRATING GOD’S WORD mind or spirit, but challenging the an account of ourselves”. (Hebrew We remember “In the beginning very structures which create such Directors 4:12) was the Word and the Word was poverty and problems. The • Offer free bereavement counselling With those dramatic words, the with God and the Word was God”. prophets of the Old Testament author of the letter to the Hebrews (Gospel of John 1:1). That same constantly condemn injustice and • Golden Charter Prepaid funeral plans available reminds us of the power and the word was spoken to Moses and oppression. The social teaching of beauty of god’s word “written” in the People of Israel (Deuteronomy the Catholic Church is often • Monumental Masonry Service the Bible “spoken” and “revealed” 34:10) and to the prophets (Cf. described as our best kept secret. in the Incarnation of Jesus, the Nehemiah 8). The response of the • Serving all areas of South Wales Word of God Made Flesh. It is he people in faith forms the chronicle 4. AS A DIOCESE who dwells amongst us. No of the history of Salvation in Each Diocese in England and wonder Pope Benedict XVI response to God’s Revelation. The Wales is uniquely placed to proclaimed “The Church is built Hebrew Bible, which we call the embrace “The God who Speaks: upon the word of God, She is Old Testament, is fulfilled in the A Year of the Word”. Each parish born from and lives by that word”. coming of Jesus, the Messiah has an enormous resource of (Verbum Domini chapter3). Not whom the prophets had foretold. devoted and committed people only is the Church built upon the At the beginning of his ministry in who, each in their own way, are word of God. The life of each the synagogue in Nazareth, Jesus able to share the Good News of believer is sustained and quoted the prophet Isiah when he the Gospel. During the coming nourished by that word both in said: “The Spirit of the Lord has year, the Church will listen to the personal prayer and devotion. It is been given to me…….This text is Gospel of Matthew during Mass in responding to the proclamation being fulfilled today even as you on Sunday. Individual copies of of God’s word by the quality of listen”. (Luke 4:18). The reading of that gospel will be distributed to our life, and ultimately, in union the Gospels and the letters of the parishioners in order that they with Jesus Christ. It is in the Holy New Testament give us privileged may, in turn, offer them to others Communion we make and access to this revealed truth. as a gift. receive during Mass that we truly Yours devotedly are nourished as members of the 2. LIVING THE WORD Body of Christ. God’s word is not just a chronicle The year 2020 marks the 1600th of past events. It is “alive and anniversary of the death of St. active” (cf Hebrew 4:12) and + George Stack Jerome who translated the Bible challenges us to respond in faith Archbishop of Cardiff Beaconsfield House into the Vulgate, into Latin, which and action. It is one of the primary 155a Commercial Street was the common language of the sources of our relationship with The pre-launch of “The God Who Newport Road people. To mark this important God. “Speak, Lord, your servant is Speaks” will take place in St. anniversary, the Bishops of listening” (1Samuel 3:10). Helens Church, Caerphilly, on Risca England and Wales have Ultimately we listen to the Saturday 19th October 2019 at Gwent NP11 6EY dedicated the year 2020 as “A promptings of God’s Spirit in the 3pm. Year of the Word”. We have silence of our hearts. “Heart The Mass of the 29th Sunday of 01633 615005 chosen the theme: “The God Who speaks to Heart” as Blessed John Ordinary Time will be celebrated www.pts-funerals.co.uk Speaks”. In the past, Catholics Henry Newman reflected. We look and this will fulfil the Sunday have been accused of neglecting forward to his canonisation by obligation. CATHOLIC PEOPLE 3 Retired priests remember their early days in ministry As we prepare for the annual at the age of 25 he was determined modern churches and schools commissioned. collection to support the sick and to return to Wales to start his The list of building projects between 1960 and Editorial retire clergy of the diocese, we ministry in the Church. 1980 gives some indication of the scale of these caught up with Father Raymond It was a different path towards developments: 34 new churches, 13 new O’Shea and Father Ambrose the priesthood for Fr. Ambrose. secondary schools, 33 new primary schools … Walsh, both native ‘Cardiffians’, Having left school he joined the the list goes on. In total 171 construction projects as they recalled their early life in Welsh College of Music and Drama were launched within the diocese over these Our retired priests ministry. where he was a contemporary of years. Fr. Raymond and Fr. Ambrose the actor Anthony Hopkins and The reforms introduced by the Second Vatican You can see on this page an article on our were born in Cardiff shortly before Peter Gill, later to become leading Council, convened by Pope John XXIII in 1962 retired priests and an appeal for the outbreak of the Second World director in the Royal Court Theatre. and concluded under Pope Paul VI in 1965, were contribute to their comfortable retirement War, and both attended St Mary’s Two years of National Service in the also to have a profound impact on the ministry of in their twighlight days. Infant and Junior School just 12 Royal Air Force were followed by six these young men. months apart. But their paths did years in Spain at The Royal English The ‘confidence at that time was extraordinary’, not cross as children; indeed, they College of St Alban’s in Valladolid. recalled Fr Raymond, ‘I was one of fifty in my We all know what magnificent work and were to diverge further in 1948 Fr. Raymond and Fr. Ambrose year in seminary, thirty-seven of whom were service they do on our behalf, all done when Fr. Raymond’s family moved became curates and firm friends in ordained in 1962’. through their calling as priests. to Galway in Ireland, when he was the early 1960s on returning to Yet Fr. Ambrose and Fr Raymond, as with so 11 years old. Cardiff. These were momentous many others, were ordained into a Church where From school Fr. Raymond times. Change swept through the they expected a life of service which continues in What would we do without their followed in the footsteps of a great diocese with a whirlwind of activity their semi-retirement. Despite being in their magnificent and dedicated service though uncle by studying for the priesthood instituted by Archbishop John eighties and having each suffered ill health, they the many years of their active at St Patrick's Seminary in County Murphy who took up office in 1961. remain active in the day-to-day life of the Church. priesthood...and they still are at it in their Carlow. On completing his studies New parishes were established, Support provided by the Sick and Retired Clergy Fund ensures that both men continue to enjoy a more senior years. fulfilling and independent retirement whilst Sick & Retired Clergy Fund information continuing a different type of priestly ministry. You can see the coupon on this page Reflecting on their ministry, it is telling that they urging you to contribute to the upkeep of concluded on the same point. ‘Looking back’, The Archdiocese of Cardiff is blessed by retired clergy who our retired priests. said Fr Raymond, ‘I thank God for many of our remain active in or around the parishes in which they have retired. lay people who give such a good example, so They do far more than simply act as a spare pair of hands. It many are totally committed and that is a Please be generous. would not be possible to sustain the richness of our life as a blessing’. church without them. ‘It is like any journey of faith’, explained Fr. Many continue in ministry leading active lives – celebrating Mass, Canon Peter Ambrose, ‘you have to learn how to distinguish serving as chaplains, counselling people in need, supporting parish between what is important and what is not life, and praying for us all. important. When I was in seminary Pope Paul VI See the article and pictures on page 8 on Parish priests generally retire from the admirative burden of parish life said, “I believe the Church is a mystery or Canon Pater Collins’ leaving as Dean of at the age of 75, often having given 40-50 years of service to the sacrament – that is to say, a concrete reality community. This is well beyond the retirement age of most lay people. St David’s Metropolitan Cathedral after 18 penetrated by the Divine presence”. That is the As they live independently, retired priests support themselves with the years. point. The Church is not an idea. It is not a help of the Sick and Retired Clergy Fund. theory. It is people. God’s presence is real in a The Fund ensures that priests enjoy a dignified retirement. It supports community of faith.’ This of us who have benefitted from his independent living providing them with a suitable home alongside • Fr. Raymond O’Shea, TD. OstJ. KCHS. OLJ. ministry will miss him...but our loss is his other services. Above all, it makes certain that their social and health was ordained in 1962 and served as priest in care needs are met. Our priests rely on what the Fund provides having new parish’s gain. eight parishes across the Archdiocese between devoted their lives to furthering the mission of the Church and bringing 1962 and 2012. people closer to Christ. • Fr. Ambrose Walsh was ordained in 1966, was Best wishes Canon! The care of retired and infirm clergy confirms our promise that they will secretary to Archbishop John Murphy, and not be forgotten after a life of service. served as priest in five parishes across the Over the next 10 years just under half of all diocesan priests will reach Our new Saint Archdiocese between 1966 and 2000. retirement age. The cost of care will rise dramatically as a result. But with your help, we will keep the promise and show our gratitude.[1] The Blessed Cardinal John Henry If you would like to support the Sick and Retired Clergy Fund you can Newman will be canonised by Pope donate at your parish where envelopes are provided. Alternatively, you Francis in the Vatican on October 13...a can give online at www.rcadc.org/donations. You can also cut out the Gift Aid declaration below and return it with your donation to great day for the Catholic Church in Archbishop’s House at the address shown. England and Wales. You might even be considering leaving a gift to the diocese for the Sick and Retired Clergy Fund. If you are thinking about remembering Full coverage of the canonisation will the clergy of the Archdiocese in your Will you can find information appear in the November edition of online at www.rcadc.org/a-gift-to-our-church. Catholic People. Message from Archbishop George Fr. Ambrose Walsh Fr. Raymond O’Shea My Dear People, Pope Francis spoke recently of all those hardworking priests who tirelessly and generously give their lives to the service of God and his people. He compared them to incense “…which silently rises up to We have nothing but heaven…[it] goes straight to the heart of the Father”. ‘ On behalf of all the people they serve, I give thanks for these stewards praise for Coles and the of God’s grace. Through the annual collection for the Sick and Retired Clergy Fund, dignity and compassion there is an opportunity to give thanks for the service they have offered over the years. they showed us and our loved ones.’ I would like the Archdiocese of Cardiff to treat the following as a Gift Aid donation. John, 74, Cyncoed Father, Grandfather Title: (Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms/Other) ...... First Name ...... We take care of everything Surname ...... Full Home Address ...... so you can concentrate ...... on what really matters...... Postcode ...... Signature ...... Date ...... Email (optional) ...... I am a UK taxpayer and I understand that if I pay less Income Tax and/ or Capital Gains Tax in the current tax year than the amount of Gift Aid claimed on all of my donations it is my responsibility to pay any difference. Please make cheques payable to the ARCHDIOCESE OF CARDIFF. You can also donate online at www.rcadc.org/donations Cardiff’s award-winning, independent, family-run funeral homes. We would like to contact you, if you are happy for us to do so, then please tick this box. Rumney 029 2079 7516 | Birchgrove 029 2209 3388 Our data is stored and processed in accordance with data protection legislation and we only share information colesfuneraldirectors.co.uk with external organisations working on our behalf or when required by law (for example when making a Gift Aid claim). 4 CATHOLIC PEOPLE Catholic schools celebrate sple

St Joseph Catholic High School, Newport, people meet and exceed their personal targets Headteacher, Ms Jarrett writes, ‘we were to achieve results that will remain with them delighted with the continued success of our forever. year 13 students this year. At every indicator our students have achieved beyond Archbishop McGrath Catholic High School, expectations and once again we have been Bridgend, Headteacher, Mrs Keller, writes: placed in the top 25% of post-16 providers in ‘The class of 2019 achieved fantastic success the UK with the ALPS system. More than a this summer with a bumper crop of quarter of all outcomes (28%) were at the outstanding GCSE results to rival any school in highest level at A*-A with 16% of students Wales. More pupils than ever before achieved achieving 3 A*-A grades. 67% of students 5 top grades with over 50% achieving at least achieved at least 3 or more A*-C and 96% one A grade or above with one in ten pupils achieved at least 3 or more A*-E. achieving at least 10 grades at A or A*. “We are very proud of all our students and Pupils on results day were delighted. 88% the staff who have worked with them of pupils achieved at least 10 C grades or throughout their time at St Joseph’s. There above. were many instances of individual success “I am so pleased with my results. Thank you stories, including our highest achievers, Rhys so much to the teachers that helped me.” Kym Jones having achieved 4A*s and an A grade Cabinilla will study Chemical Engineering at “I am so pleased and happy for all my Manchester; Haidar Mathieson who achieved friends!” Jack Stolzenburg 4A*s intends to read Medicine at Cambridge “I am delighted with my results; hard work university; Shireen Balouch who secured 2A*s pays off!” Shingai Kaseke and 1A will read Economics and History at “I couldn’t be happier and am so grateful to Exeter; Anastasia Wall secured 2A*s and 1A my teachers for all their help and support; I grade to pursue Medicine at Cardiff; Niall would not have been able to do it without Griffiths will read Accounting and Finance at them.” Ella Wallace Bath having achieved 1A* and 2A grades; Once again the pupils and their teachers Olivia Nuzzo achieved 1A* and 2A grades and have put an enormous amount of effort and will attend Cardiff university to read Media and hard work into these results. We asked more Communications and Alexander Willis who of the pupils and they achieved more than achieved 1A* and 2A grades will be reading ever. Pupils are achieving more qualifications Bishop Hedley Catholic High School, Merthyr Tydfil, students celebrate success Politics and International Relations at University than ever before and the results have shown College London. There were also stories of that it is right to ensure pupils get more than individuals who through persistence and one opportunity to sit their examinations. We determination achieved their target grades and are proud of all our pupils and there are Green Willow Funerals earned a place at the university of their choice, superb success stories to celebrate. We are so Personalised Funeral Services and Funeral Plans and a number who have accepted exciting pleased for the pupils and their families. It is apprenticeships with organisations across also important that we remember to celebrate South Wales and the West including Freya not only their academic successes but their Stevens who will shortly commence an wider achievements and contributions. I am Engineering apprenticeship with the Ministry of grateful for the support of both wonderful Defence. parents and staff.’ Dennis Hooper, Chair of Each student should be proud of his or her Governors, was delighted the school “had wonderful achievements and we wish them sustained superb results year on year” and well for their futures, whether that be at said “you couldn’t ask for more from the staff university, an apprenticeship or entering the and pupils.” The school looks forward to the world of work. At GCSE, we are incredibly proud of our Year 11 students who have achieved outstanding “There were also stories of GCSE results. Notably, 32% of students individuals who through achieved 5 or more A*-A and 70% of the year group achieved 5 or more A*-C including a persistence and All profits donated to charity mathematics and English qualification. We are very proud of the achievements all of determination achieved Caring, sensitive bespoke funeral services our students. It is wonderful to see our young their target grades” Telephone 02920 52 42 00

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www.greenwillowfunerals.com St Joseph’s Roman Catholic High School A level students Haidar Mathieson (Medicine at Cambridge), Harri Knight-Davis (Film and Television at Bristol), Alex Aston (Physics at Bristol) CATHOLIC PEOPLE 5 endid exam results

future successes of the class of 2019 when achieving standard passes (4+) in both of they return in September to start their A- these core subjects. There were also some Levels. exceptional individual performances amongst the students at the school. Head Boy Benedict Bishop Hedley Catholic High School, Fawcett achieved an incredible eight grade 9s Headteacher, Sarah Hopkins, writes, ‘we have and notification from the examination board seen record GCSE results this year with 73% that he was OCR’s highest performer in of learners achieving 5 GCSEs A*-C including Biology in the June 2019 examinations English and Maths. 88% of pupils achieved 5 nationally. In addition to this, and between GCSEs. There were smiles all round as no them, Anna Clarke, Hannah Clery, Hannah pupil left without a qualification. These results Howl and Chiara Koop amassed a further are a community effort involving the hard work twenty-three grade 9s. I am so proud of what of pupils, extra effort on the part of staff and they have achieved and the progress they the continued support of parents.’ have made. Their results are truly excellent St Mary’s Catholic High School, and no less than they deserve for their hard Headteacher, Mr Wetson writes: ‘Students and work and commitment during their time with staff at St Mary’s RC High School are us. We will all miss this year group and wish celebrating today having received a set of very them every success for their exciting next impressive GCSE results, with over a quarter steps. It’s very much a collective effort at St of all results achieved being the highest 7-9 Mary’s. We’ve had such a positive year but grades. In the key accountability measures, couldn’t have done it without the hard work of 60% of students at St Mary’s gained strong the staff and invaluable support of our passes (5+) in English and Maths with 82% parents.”

St Mary’s Catholic High School, Hereford, Head boy Benedict Fawcett celebrates eight grade 9s!

Cardinal Newman High School, Pontypridd, students celebrate exam success

Happy students at Archbishop McGrath Catholic High School, Bridgend 6 CATHOLIC PEOPLE Archbishop congratulates St David's leavers

On Thursday 5th September, students, staff, family and friends filled St David’s Metropolitan Cathedral to celebrate the achievements of the academic year 2018-19 at the St David's Catholic College Leavers' Ceremony. The Archbishop, His Grace, the Most Rev. George Stack attended and gave a comprehensive account of the role and purpose of Catholic education. His Grace complimented the college on its achievements and upon its commitment to providing a truly Catholic education. The evening was supported by musical performances from the belief systems and walks of life, and instilling Performing Arts students which sought to encapsulate the mood of the us with the faith and encouragement we all evening by celebrating success whilst looking to the future with need from time to time.” optimism. The College Principal, gave a speech Students from subject areas received Academic Achievement and emphasising the holistic nature of Catholic Studentship Prizes. These were presented by the Archbishop and Chair education as experienced and developed at St of Governors. David’s. He gave thanks to His Grace, for not Scholarship Memorial Awards were presented to new students from just his support for St David’s, but also for his Catholic Partner Schools. These included the Alesha O’Connor remarkable interest and commitment to the Memorial Award, the Thomas Channon Memorial Award and the Helen development of the youth of the diocese. Vickery Memorial Award. The ceremony drew to a close with a Valedictorian, Rhian Holmes, delivered a confident and reflective blessing from the Archbishop. His Grace made speech, saying: “Seeing myself and my peers embarking on their own a point of ensuring that the parents of the college journeys has made me really appreciate all that St David’s is young people present were thanked for the and does. In my two years I witnessed staff working tirelessly, sending sacrifice and commitment they have made for us extra material and organising out-of-hours revision sessions to see their children. us through our exams. I saw our chaplaincy team implementing the The evening ended with an enjoyable and college’s religious ethos, while still being open to and respectful of all well attended reception at the Cornerstone. Sung Vespers at Tintern Abbey

Beautiful weather enabled a large congregation to participate in the annual service at Tintern Abbey (pictured here). Organised by the Friends of Our Lady of Tintern, with the kind permission of CADW, the service took place on Sunday 8 September. Now in its 19thyear, this ecumenical event drew visitors from across the Diocese and beyond. The guest Speaker was Reverend Dr Tim Macquiban, a British Methodist presbyter who has most recently served as Minister for the English-speaking Ponte Sant’ Angelo Methodist Church Rome, and director of the Methodist Ecumenical Office. While in Rome he has represented the World Methodist Council to the Vatican and been Chair of the city’s Churches Together in Rome. He recently attended the Notre Dame Consultation on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification. In his address, he spoke about the significance of Tintern Abbey as a Cistercian Medieval monastery and its dedication to the Virgin Mary. Reverend Macquiban went on to speak of two remarkable Medieval women, Julian of Norwich and Margery Kempe, and the relevance of their stories in our Christian lives today. CATHOLIC PEOPLE 7

A delighted St Alban's pupil...aiming high! Church music is certainly highlighted at St Alban-on-the-Moors, in Cardiff. Latin Mass Success at St Alban’s beautifully sung By Emma Read, Assistant support of my teachers has Robins, all of whom achieved 5 or more A* grades! at St Alban's Headteacher been…I am very grateful and We celebrate just as much, if not more, with immensely happy.” He joins those pupils who have achieved in spite of awful Church music is certainly highlighted at St Results Days remain as Laura McGriele, who settled personal experiences in their own lives. So many Alban-on-the-Moors, in Cardiff. emotional as ever at St there last year, won a National spend their time quietly avoiding talking about the The choir, pictured here, sang a beautiful Latin Alban’s. The true meaning of Education Award and problems they encounter on a daily basis. Others Mass, celebrated by Father Sebastian. You can Christianity is played out nominated one of her teachers are open and share their concerns with teachers see the music programme for the church on every day, with opportunities to win an Inspirational Teachers and with support staff in The Sanctuary. These are this page. to help, support and Award. the pupils whose appearance on results day was The acoustics in St Alban's are brilliant with the demonstrate God’s love to so Forging links with colleges in most special – those who have been on a journey choir projecting from the organ loft above the many young people this way is a very effective and emerged with a piece of paper that proves to Sanctuary which throws out the sound to an struggling with any number of means of enabling more and themselves and the world that they CAN. The appreciative audience in this church, which personal, emotional and more pupils to gain entry to the eagerness of teachers as pupils opened their can hold 500 people. educational challenges. top universities (which include envelopes was palpable. We have worked with It is now the home of the Oratory in Formation Whilst showing sympathy to St Andrew’s and Warwick this these young people and tirelessly tried to convince these individuals, it is vital to year). The average number of them that this was possible. We got to say, in the continue to support and students achieving above C at nicest possible way, “We told you so.” challenge them to achieve – A Level was 70%, with 15% So it seems that pupils who considered true self-belief seems to stem gaining A or A*. Subjects saw themselves inadequate and typically ‘bottom set’ from achieving actual success. up to 37% gain A/A*. Other with really challenging lives can achieve even B Wanted for the Teaching really is the best job pupils enjoying notable grades in their GCSEs. All it takes is huge amounts in the world, when you success are: Tamarin Arnold, of self-belief, instilled in them by their teachers. We Missions experience the immense Morgan Coffey, Tori Keyte, Ella are reminded regularly through staff liturgy that satisfaction of witnessing your Wycherley-Morgan, Nathan Christ was a teacher; following his example, we Large Statues (Even damaged pupils gaining results of which Little, Bethan White, Susannah strive to be patient, committed and determined ones), old vestments, pictures, they never thought themselves Cullen, Carys Owen, Keiron never to give up, especially on those who present capable. The sweat, tears and Marsh, Hannah Smith. Our us with challenges. These pupils’ success is the church fittings, rosaries, prayer constant repetition of, “Yes, you Chair of Governors, Rev. David result of extremely hard work and often tears (theirs books, religious books, relics etc. cando it!” all pale into Hayman is delighted for our and ours!). To see these pupils walk tall as they left insignificance when you see students, as is our Headteacher school today was a dream come true. Take on the Please ring the light in their eyes as they Mr. Steven Lord, who wrote to world, you inspirational young people – it was a realise, “I did it!” teachers stating, “I can only privilege to be a small part of your journey. Mr. B. Ferris KSC, As a Catholic institution, thank you for all the hard work 102 Moor St, Earlsdon, colleagues consider this ‘job’ a and care and support you give Coventry CV5 6EY vocation. We are so lucky to the pupils, families and each experience such satisfaction other as colleagues. It is a Tel: 02476 676986 but, at times of the year, the privilege to work in such a great pace and challenge for place as St Alban’s.” teachers is relentless. Pupils With only one year left as a are more than that – they are Catholic Sixth Form education persons, requiring an holistic provider, this is not quite our approach in order to develop swan song… but it is close. We themselves. A Level, BTEC and have one more year in which to GCSE results are achieved encourage post-16 pupils to alongside personal fulfilment aim high and “Be the Best they H. TOVEY • J. TOVEY and not in spite of it. As Can Be” (our motto). As a J. CORTEN • R. DALE Catholic teachers, it is our school, we will not take this responsibility to improve the responsibility lightly. K. FOSTER • D. O’CONNELL confidence, self-belief, skills Luckily, we are to continue to and knowledge of every pupil, provide a Catholic education to according to the Pupil Profile. Key Stage 4 and will focus all 01633 266848 Over the past few years, we our energies here. There were have celebrated the so many successes to acceptance of several students celebrate on Thursday Newport Funeral Home, at Oxford University, having 22ndAugust. On average, 9/11 Cardiff Road, Newport developed a closer link with nearly a quarter (23%) of pupils (opposite Royal Gwent Hospital) Admissions there. This year, we achieved A/A*. Even in Year 10, congratulate Jesse Vaughan on where pupils sat GCSE English his plan to read English Literature a year early, 6 pupils www.toveybros.co.uk Literature at Lady Margaret Hall, gained A* and 77% of all pupils having earned two A* and one ranked above a C. Some of our A trusted family business serving A grade. He was overjoyed, top achievers were: Romilly commenting later, “I do not Watkins, Ffion Brown, Ethan local families and the community in think I can overstate how vital Hands, James Wren, Lydia Coe, South East Wales for six generations the encouragement and Francine Ganduli and Bryony 8 CATHOLIC PEOPLE

Above: Jeffrey Howard and choristers provided some magnificent music to the evening

Left: Canon Peter and Archbishop George enjoy a quiet chat...but orange juice for the Canon rather than his lovely Spanish wine Farewell and many thanks Canon Peter! Story and pictures by Dr James Campbell quick conversion since I had been attracted to Catholicism for over 30 years, very much It was a merry band of parishioners that influenced by the life of Saint John XXIII and met in The Cornerstone to say goodbye to Vatican 2. Canon Peter Collins, Dean of our St David's As a chorister I had always been involved in Cathedral for 18 years. Songs of Praise broadcasts from the age of 18, He is not going far, but only rowing across singing with choristers from other churches, the River Taff to take up his new post as parish Anglican and Catholic as well as Church of priest of St Mary of the Angels and Holy Scotland. It was Catholic music, especially that Family. of Byrd, which brought me closer and closer to He has been a magnificent priest for we the Catholic faith. parishioners at the cathedral. His homilies have When I was accepted into the Catholic faith always been deep in meaning, flecked with his by Archbishop Peter Smith, I joined the inimitable self-deprecating humour. cathedral choir under Dr David Neville and later He actually started off in th cathedral as a his son Dominic. It was a joyous time for me The Caring Funeral Service curate after being ordained in 1984 and his and I.although no longer a choir member, Award Winning Independent Funeral Homes duties included a Spanish spell at the enjoy the music of our current choir under seminary at Valladolid where he taught our Jeffrey Howard, a section of whom gave a young priests-to-be...and developed a taste for lovely performance at Canon Peter's farewell Award Winning, Spanish wine, a taste we both share. evening. Independent I always remember to drop in a bottle of the We wil all miss him but he has left us in the best Spanish on the anniversary of his more than capable hands of Father Daniel Funeral Arrangers ordination. As a historian I never forget that Stanton....and I promised Canon Peter that I will date July 14, the date of the storming of the not defect to his parish (although ( may Bastille and the start of the French Revolution occasionally sneak down to Holy Family, 10 Privileged to have in 1789. minutes walk from my house in Llandaff, to served the Catholic Canon Peter helped me in my own revolution enjoy his lovely homilies! when after 40 years as a Protestant in the All of us at the Cathedral wish him well in his community since 1989 Church of Scotland, I converted under his new post and thank him for his care for us as teaching to the Catholic Faith. It was not a our beloved parish priest. • Private Rest Rooms • 24HR Call-Out Service • 5* Client Reviews • Caring, Dignified, Personal & Professional Service • Pre-Paid Funeral Plans

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Patrick Smalley presented Canon Peter with a painting of St David's Cathedral

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