Issue 3, December 2017 News from the Parish Communities of St Peter’S Advent Appeal St Peter’S, Hazel Grove and St Philip’S, Offerton

Issue 3, December 2017 News from the parish communities of St Peter’s Advent Appeal St Peter’s, Hazel Grove and St Philip’s, Offerton. Contents 4-6 l St Philip’s Friendship Group I15 love Christmas l Yakubu’s update FROM THE l Offerton in union with Rome l Memory jogger 16 PARISH PRIEST l Farewells and welcomes Sarah’s Holy Land diary l Defibrillator training Welcome to our third edition l When in doubt of Shine. What a varied Youth18 pilgrimage to the Holy Land collection of articles there is for you to read. The 7 Holy Land, Rome, Lourdes, The School of Joy 19 India are places visited Golden days in Rome by parishioners over the past few months and these experiences are shared with One,20 no two, to watch! us in this edition. It’s not only The School of Joy travel but a varied range of 8 other activities is chronicled 23 What a lovely name for a school. You fundraising and prayers. They really need here so, hopefully, there On a mission to England Take a break and reflect with Mary can read all about it on page 7 in Tom some funds to get a machine that will help is something for everyone. Mercer’s article. All the young people on the them with their olive wood carvings. Perhaps you will write 10 something for our Fr Michael, then and now Doctors24 in Lourdes pilgrimage to the Holy Land in October felt so next edition which will moved by their experience in the School of They produce and sell these to provide an be published in time Joy. It was their initiative to suggest we might income for the school. The machine costs for Easter. A26 newcomer’s pilgrimage focus our Advent project on these children just short of £3,000 so the Advent Project is I look forward to welcoming to Lourdes this summer and help them as much as we can with our an Advent challenge this year. you to either or both of our churches over the Christmas 12 feast and into the New Year. Loreto Altrincham meets 27 If you would like to help, put your offerings in the box marked You and your families will be Loreto India Kids’ corner “Advent project” at the back of church near the entrance door. very welcome. Fr Peter 14 Try the Marriage Course Who28 to contact

Christmas Services at St Peter’s & St Philip’s Reconciliation services Christmas in St Peter’s Christmas Day Monday 18 December in and St Philip’s 25 December Mass times St Philip’s at 7.30pm Christmas Eve Night St Peter’s at 8.30am, Tuesday 19 December in St Peter’s 24 December Mass times 10am (children’s Mass) and 11.30 am. with the Local Pastoral Area St Peter’s at 7pm and 10pm No evening Mass at 7.30pm St Philip’s at 8pm St Philip’s at 10am

2 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 ShineShine Issue Issue 3 3 DecemberDecember 20172017 33 Shining a light on our parish communities

Farewells and Extending Memory jogger welcomes We asked in our last issue if anyone friendship was familiar in this procession photo Since our last edition the to any reader… and guess what? following have had their Seeing a pattern in a magazine and a chance meeting funerals from St Peter’s or The priest has been identified as with a lady on a Stockport market stall who was St Philip’s: Canon John L Roper who was an raising funds for a charity Revive a Life, prompted assistant priest at St Peter’s 1954-63. Irma Guest one of our Friendship Group to suggest that those Maureen Foudy The eagle eyed reader was none other of us who could sew might make some dresses for Friederike Magdalena Maltby the children of Uganda supported by this charity. than his own sister, Mrs Mary McDermott Patrick Joseph Smith 36 dresses were made and delivered; at the end of (nèe Roper) who was reading Shine John Lendon Barrow August they were taken to Revive a Life House in during this year’s Shrewsbury diocese Kathleen Mary Gingell Kampala and some to Gulu prison for children there pilgrimage to Lourdes. Joan Burgess with their parents. Each of us received a touching Both Mary and daughter Margaret Anne Dennehey Barrie Hart thank you card with a photograph. Short snippets of Norton were surprised and delighted to Ken James Gulu prison can be seen on You Tube. see the photo. They told us that after his Here’s a picture of him in his younger days. Sean Bonner time at St Peter’s, he went to St Alban’s, In the near future our Friendship Group is booked Irene Heap Liscard (1963-68). He went as Parish He was then appointed Administrator for TWO Christmas dinners at interesting venues. Winifred Cartwright Priest to St Mary’s, Congleton (1968-75), of the Cathedral in 1983 and joined the Tell you next time! One involves a lecture, the other Patricia More St Mary’s, Madeley (1975-78) and St Cathedral Chapter the same year. He Heather Kershaw water...! Otherwise things jog along as usual. Patrick’s, Wellington (1978-83). died on 15 October 1993. Margaret Dunne May their souls and the souls Yakubu’s of all the faithful departed rest Offerton in union with Rome update in peace. To be in union with our Rome pilgrims, on the afternoon of Readers of Shine will recall how Hazel Grove parishioner their departure a group gathered in St Philip’s church to Yakubu Gadzama Karagama was hoping to raise an Pray, Praise and Party. optimistic target of £3,000 to help start the re-building of a school in Lassa, north east Nigeria. To pray; in thanksgiving for the past, for those who formed He is delighted to report, “We sent £5,500 to the Education We have welcomed a number the parish, gave of their time, talents and money, many Must Continue Initiative and they can’t send enough thanks of children into the church of whom are no through Baptism. on behalf of the children. The three classrooms we planned longer with us; to to fund turned into six! In fact, the new school just needs Silver Mae Cassidy hope for the future the roof. The kind and generous people of St Peter’s parish Diana Leah Mariano Borges asking that, with community have made this possible! Thank you to everyone Eli William Henry-Clouston the help of the for your prayers and your generosity.” Lottie Mae Bailey Holy Spirit and Our Flora Violet Johnson Lady, we might Orla Grace Poppy Mills deepen our faith Mia Holly McGowan in the Eucharist − Florence Elizabeth Young not forgetting our Where we are Dexter Robert Hall children, youth, St Peter’s Church and presbytery St Philip’s Church Mason Bailey Kamren Mills-Chard elderly and sick. 16 Green Lane, Hazel Grove Half Moon Lane Luke Antony Ponseka With 15 mysteries Stockport SK7 4EA Offerton Benjamin Douglas Kewley to ponder and 16 hymns there was plenty of opportunity to Stockport SK2 5LB Tel 0161 483 3476 Ruby Louise Mulvey-Kelsall bring to mind our many intentions. Grace Louise Carney Email: [email protected] After prayers and praise the party began − with afternoon Joseph Michael Williams Fr Peter: [email protected] tea, jam and cream scones, and cakes but most importantly Evie Jane Evans the meeting of friends old and new. Our joint website is www.stpeterscatholic.church Hattie Jane Evans

4 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 5 Shining a Shininglight on our parisha light communities on our Defibrillatortraining

A big thank you to Samantha Sellars from the North West Ambulance Service who guided us in the installation of a defibrillator on the outside wall of the church a short while ago. This defibrillator is available for use not only on the church site but also for any emergencies in the local community happening in about a 200 metre radius around the church. Samantha did two training sessions for The School of Joy us in church which were extremely useful and interesting. The sessions were really Tom Mercer reports on his reactions to time well attended by both parishioners and members of the local community. spent at the wonderfully named School of Joy.

While we were in the Holy Land, we went to the School of Joy. This is a school for children with learning difficulties. Many of them had physical problems too. When in When we arrived, the priest who was in charge spoke to us about the children to doubt… IT’S A CRACKER! tell us what to expect. As we went into each class, the teacher told the children to For many young people going through Sixth Form or A cabbie picks up a nun. She gets into the greet us. They were very excited and very friendly. They came up to us, shook our cab and notices that the VERY handsome hands and said “Hello!” then they counted for us in English. They were very proud College, making decisions on what to do in the future cab driver won’t stop staring at her. She asks is very difficult. One of our own young parishioners, him why he is staring. of themselves. We were impressed to see how cheerful they were in spite of all Tom Small experienced just that crossroads’ moment He replies: “I have a question to ask, but I their problems. in the spring of this year. don’t want to offend you.” Before we left, the priest showed us items in olive wood that had been carved at She answers, “My son, you cannot offend me. the school. He explained that the money made from these religious souvenirs, Unhappy in his college at the time, he looked When you’re as old as I am and have into changing college or maybe taking up various been a nun as long as I have, you get a together with any donations, went to pay for the operations needed by many of apprenticeships, but he couldn’t work out what was right chance to see and hear just about everything. the children. Obviously, we all wanted to help with this. for him. However, God soon revealed his plans! I’m sure that there’s nothing you could say or ask that I would find offensive.” We were sad to leave these brave, cheerful children. They had welcomed us to their school and shown us how they overcome the difficulties in their lives. They Family friend, Rachel McKay, received a tweet from Alpha “Well, I’ve always had a fantasy to have a entitled “Dare to Lead”, which detailed a 9 -12 month nun kiss me.” inspired us all to face and cope with any problems we may have. internship with Alpha Ireland. Tom’s parents David and Laura, shared the advert with She responds, “Well, let’s see what we can Tom and were presented with “Yes, I’ll go for it!”. Applicants had to be 18 years old do about that… and the job was to start in November. Tom’s 18th birthday was in October! 1) You have to be single and Tom, having had a conversion experience at the ‘Joel’s Bar’ Easter Catholic youth 2) You must be Catholic.” retreat, followed this up with attendance on the summer term Alpha course at St The cab driver is very excited and says, “Yes, I’m single and I’m Catholic!” Peter’s. He applied for the internship with Alpha Ireland and was interviewed a week later. After a nervous wait for an answer, he found out whilst on holiday that he had “OK,” the nun says “pull into the next layby.” been accepted as the intern for Dublin. Tom started work in Ireland on November 15. The nun fulfills his fantasy with a kiss that quite overwhelmed him. But when they get He commented “I thoroughly enjoyed the Alpha course in the parish and was amazed back on the road, the cab driver starts to cry. how in depth and interesting both the discussions and the videos were. I found that “My dear child,” asks the nun, “why are Alpha spurred on my curiosity about faith and helped me travel on my journey even you crying?” further. I am very excited, and nervous, to go to Ireland, but hopefully with prayers “Forgive me, but I’ve sinned, Sister. I lied and and support I will enjoy it to the full. I really hope I can inspire transition year students I must confess - I’m married and I’m Jewish.” to take the plunge into their own faith journey”. The nun says, “That’s OK. My name is Kevin and I’m going to a Halloween party.” We hope to hear more about how Tom is getting on in the next issue. Do keep him in your prayers. 6 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 7 In October 2016, Bishop Mark Davies visited the Franciscan University of Steubenville, a Catholic university in Ohio, USA. There he

issued an invitation to

a group of students to spend time as youth missionaries in the “ diocese of Shrewsbury We also got to spend two nights with St Peter’s Youth in Hazel Grove, during the following an experience which brought joy and renewal to each one of us as summer 2017. “ we witnessed the abundant faith and life present there! Now team member Charis Willey shares we embarked on our missionary We spent time with the cathedral seeks each soul and calls us back to activity. Over the course of the next parish confirmation group, travelling union with Him. two months, we had an experience their recent mission to parishes to lead Holy Hours, and Hearts were definitely moved as we of mission work which has impacted visited many Catholic schools to lead prayed over each teenager, interceding experience. and shaped each of us in new and day retreats. One of the greatest for God’s presence in their hearts profound ways. We were blessed to challenges that we encountered was and lives, praying specifically for their intentions. We realised that there is a great hunger in their hearts for truth and for love, to recognise that they are created with beauty and purpose On a mission to England − a message many had never received before. The God-shaped hole in human hearts was truly evident as lives were Bishop Mark’s invitation greatly injury that he had to have operated ticket for Manchester. Thankfully we touched and opened this summer. Seeing excited the students, who immediately on!), it seemed like nothing was had just enough money left over from this transformative action of grace in turn envisioned drinking tea in castles! And going to work out quite right. But fundraising to do that; God provides touched and transformed each of us. so the “Mission to England” was born. eventually the big day came, 25 May, just what we need. We arrived in and we took off for England! Even Shrewsbury where we were going to Now the summer is over; we have We formed a mission team of seven that didn’t go smoothly as Becca’s live at the cathedral parish, and after returned to the US, to our studies and members: Susan, Becca, Steven, connecting flight was delayed so a few days of welcome and orientation life at the Franciscan university. But Emmanuel, Daniel, Joshua and Charis. she got stranded in New York for 24 meetings (which always involved the work God has begun we pray He Then, over the months between hours while we brought her another tea − the British stereotype is true!), will continue. We pray for Bishop Mark, October 2016 and May 2017 when we have a chapel in our home, and so the realisation that we were meeting for the diocese of Shrewsbury, for the flew to Manchester, we worked to get the team developed a life of prayer many teenagers who had no faith, who parish of St Peter’s, for every single to know each other, to pray together together each morning and night along were self-proclaimed atheists. However, individual we were fortunate enough to for all the souls we would encounter, with attending daily Mass; this daily after spending time speaking with them, encounter this summer.. to figure out the format of the retreats prayer time was our source of strength we frequently discovered that they were We are truly grateful to all who showed we would lead, to fundraise for our and unity, both personally and as a not opposed to faith but had simply us the love of Christ in a far land, flights and to organise all the small team. St Bernard of Clairvaux wrote a never met anyone who could answer and we hope someday to return. Yet, but important logistics of preparation beautiful meditation in which he spoke their questions about God. for two months spent spreading the of “our need to become reservoirs of even if we do not, we are united in Gospel. The time flew by in a whirl of grace, to receive all the gifts that They did not know the reasonableness prayer and in faith and in hope in God, preparation, during which at several God wishes to pour into our hearts of faith and had never encountered building His kingdom throughout the points as we sorted out flights and until they must overflow in our words God’s love in a deep and personal world. As Father Peter said on our last battled with fundraising and in-team and lives”. Our daily time in the chapel way. They just had never heard that day at St Peter’s parish, “We’ll see you communication (and Steven got a leg was our reservoir. although humanity fell, He loves and in heaven, if not before!” 8 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 9 customary good humour and hint of The beautiful house chapel at Bowdon steel, Michael is relaxed and ready as Vale with its superb acoustics ever to talk about his life and 45 years does not prevent him from singing as a priest. or celebrating at his meticulously Fr Michael, prepared Mass, nor from delivering a The eldest of three (two sisters, one compelling homily. deceased), Michael was born in 1944, in Seacombe in the Wirral: “exactly Preaching, in fact, Michael feels, is an a mile to the centre of Liverpool essential part of the priesthood. Not then and now through the tunnel” he said, and where surprisingly, Canon Rafferty has now his football heart is. “At Anfield,” he invited him to give three talks under added, “but don’t mention Manchester St Vincent’s auspices at St Hugh of United!” His early schooling was with Lincoln’s church hall entitled “The Divine the Irish Christian Brothers at St People of God – are we?”. Fr Michael Anselm’s in Birkenhead and priestly enjoys it, reads widely about it and Renovation training at St Mary’s, Oscott near has many years of scripture study Birmingham. and inspiring teachers behind him: no written homilies, no notes, remarkable Theology, scripture, music and A date for your diary. scholarship and much common preaching were principally sense – all in his head! I If you missed the Divine to become a very seldom, if ever, come away significant part of Renovation conference from his homily without his life over time fresh insights and being − and still are. at St Mary’s University, scripturally wiser. Communication Twickenham in October, we with electronic But a prompt lunch technology is time usually draws our can offer an opportunity to another of his meetings to an end. strengths with A touch of humour hear about the themes from videos on the and we are heading Fr James Mallon’s book Mass, background for a solitary meal in of the psalms, his consoling, newly which are transforming his Fr Michael Cupit had just celebrated special services, personalised, fitted out Mass in his necessary wheelchair general absolution, ground floor room. A huge parish from maintenance at the special altar (table-height to Gerry Clarke, retired head teacher of use of pictures and improvement for Michael and to mission. suit him) in the chapel at Bowdon quotations, writing music… a relief from a more confining room Vale Nursing Home. The chapel is St Simon’s, Hazel Grove offers a personal Also in good times for Fr Michael, he on an upper floor. Always warm and Michael Roche will be part of the original doctor’s family was a strong chairman of Churches upbeat in the face of seclusion and house; the house has been added to profile of Fr Michael Cupit, who was parish Together, a determined ecumenical loneliness − “a part of a priest’s life and coming to St Peter’s over time and is now an extended group of over thirty parishes in the seldom far away” he added. Mentally nursing home where Fr Michael lives priest of St Philip’s Offerton (1997-2010). Macclesfield and Stockport areas. strong, creative by himself, and, despite parish centre on Saturday the struggle to gain confidence in using and where he is able to continue A series of fulfilling appointments, He includes the new phase of Fr Michael’s life his prosthesis, the popular and much 27January from 9.30 am- with his priestly vocation − and initiated at St Joseph’s Winsford, loved Fr Michael is optimistic and deal with his difficult post-operative and vocation at Bowdon Vale Nursing Home. lasted seven years. Supportive 4pm to lead the day. This committed to this new role in his life circumstances. parishioners, the presence of a and vocation at Bowdon Vale. event is open to all parishes A dozen or so retired religious Sisters congregation of religious sisters, severely deteriorating, completely XII in our own time, in 1951. Still in of Saint Joseph of the Apparition live in and meeting up with significant paralysed Sr Teresa Moran of the his vestments after Mass and always so why not come along with the nearby convent of Saint Emilie in personalities were part of his musical congregation was miraculously cured. wheelchair bound in order to move the same quiet grounds of the nursing background and vocation. They are your parish team and hear The miracle, a remarkable story in around, Fr Michael’s leg amputation home. Some lay people too make up Fr greatly appreciated by Michael to detail, was attributed to Mother Emilie is a huge trauma and challenge. He Michael’s small congregation and daily this day. He played violin, became more. De Vialar, the foundress, and whose and I made our way carefully to the Mass celebration. The chapel is now an excellent guitarist under a very presence was felt in the room by her care home’s elegant, spacious drawing a Chapel-of-Ease under the direction good tutor and led his own-created To reserve a place and for Sisters. The room, which was always room: a real pleasure for both of us of Fr Michael in the wider parish of St orchestra. Omnifarious tastes! part of the house, is now preserved in with its rare period furniture, several more information please Vincent’s in Altrincham where Canon her memory. I made an overdue visit beautiful ‘objets d’art’, Renaissance Indeed, lots of music soon became a John Rafferty is parish priest; he was to this special room, now a shrine, prints and a polished oval table major enjoyment in so many aspects contact Rachel at : at one time parish priest at St Peter’s, and where Fr Michael recommended overlooking the manicured lawn of Fr Michael’s life though now Hazel Grove. [email protected] anyone might go; maybe to become a and long drive. A thoughtful Sister somewhat restricted. Painstaking Also in the house at Bowdon Vale is the place of pilgrimage? Emilie De Vialar Magdelene, as usual, served us therapy, particularly with his same room where in 1964, an almost was soon canonised by Pope Pius tea and biscuits. With his warmth, prosthesis, is challenging. Saint Emilie De Vialar 10 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 11 From the 8th to the 22nd of July, teachers to give the students individual 30 girls and six teachers from Loreto attention. We would return to ‘Seva Altrincham went out to visit three Kendra’ at about three o’clock each day Loreto Altrincham when the day girls would go home. Loreto schools in Kolkata, India. The two weeks we spent there were so We then went back to Entally at five inspiring and were filled with such joy! o’clock for playtime with the boarders! meets Loreto India Whilst we were there we witnessed This was my favourite part of each day. the incredible work that the IBVM As the bell would ring, the children nuns are carrying out there. would all run outside to us and we would Students Anna McKay and On our first day we met Sister Cyril. She play with chalk, colour in, skip, play Lois Kelly headed off to India introduced the ‘Rainbow programme’ basketball and play games. When you this summer on a school project. through which street children, who are there you form incredible bonds with them and I will keep all the cards and Anna shares her experience there. would not otherwise get an education, can stay at Loreto schools and then go pictures they made me forever. There out to Bengali schools during the day was a nun there called Sr Mabina who is to learn in their own language. In India, doing amazing work for the boarders!! Loreto had a reputation for only being She works in the school during the day for the rich children, yet over the last and then stays with the boarders after 30 years, through her work, Sr Cyril has school. She looks after them all so well opened the schools up by encouraging and it is easy to see how much she loves education for all. She also seems to them. She was out playing basketball have rescued many of India’s cats as with everyone each day. large numbers of them wander The nuns and the boarders rely on into her office each day to donations, and although the be fed! girls had very little – for Our group was split most just a couple of amongst three Loreto dresses, a comb and a schools where we toothbrush – they just spent each day. I was wanted to share with at Loreto Entally, which us. On one night we all Kolkata was a short walk from had sweets and they all ‘Seva Kendra’ where we were halving their sweets were staying, so luckily we and tried to give them to us! I didn’t have to brave the minibus each learnt so much more from them than day like the other schools did. When we I could have ever taught them. got there each morning we would go into Being there was such a culture shock, the assemblies that were very similar to with the complete change in food, the those at our own school. We then went incredible heat and humidity, and the into the class with the girls. crazy roads, yet in a place that was so Entally had some girls who were different, the schools felt so homely and day schoolers and others who were they made us feel like a real part of the boarders. The boarders were mainly community. This made it so sad when orphans and many received sponsorship we had to leave; I just wanted to take all that enabled them to attend the school, the girls with me. But when we did leave, yet they were all taught together. I the children in the schools all did a little was based in class two in which the concert for us and sang and danced. We girls were mostly seven and eight. attempted to Irish dance and sing for One of my favourite parts of each day them too! was ‘Catechism class’ which some A big ‘thank you’ to St Peter’s parish of the girls from class two would go for supporting our trip to India. The to. In this we got to lead action songs donations that you gave to Lois and and tell stories and get to know the myself when we did teas and coffees girls. I quickly caught their contagious went towards buying the games, crafts excitement, and our favourites were ‘The and colouring resources that we took banana song’ and ‘The penguin song’. over with us. The children really loved We would then take out some of the girls them and we loved sharing in the who needed extra help with spellings activities with them. or times tables; as the classes were One day I really want to go back and see made up of 40 – 50 girls it is difficult for my most favourite people! 12 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 ShineShine Issue Issue 3 3 DecemberDecember 20172017 1313 When approaching people about the Marriage Course, many different responses are often made. Try the Marriage “We have been married x years and everything is OK, thanks.” “I will never get my husband along to Course – the course.” “We don’t want to rock the boat.” No wonder I was born on the feast Eileen Wilcox shares her thoughts on The expectation is that the course it’s highly of St Nicholas who eventually will have a negative effect on the morphedI intol Santao Claus;v a e hristmas! Christmas traditions from her American relationship. The course however, neighbour’s child told me he was C is very much the opposite and is born in the “chocolate month” − homeland – and her pending birthday! effectively an invitation to ‘make the recommended the Advent Calendar. most of the rest of your married life’. One tradition I have always the avenue), you walk through paintings by Bruegel – all unaware The Marriage Course runs over a seven In an earlier edition of Shine, we read of the particularly enjoyed is the the Christmas Gardens – past the of the miracle of the Incarnation week period, split into weekly sessions Christmas tree. many beautiful angels bearing so near them. on Tuesdays at 7.15pm covering experience of Alison and Andy McGarr, who had Ours is traditional: at the top an their trumpets – all in a soft various aspects of married life and The 200 or so figures are from angel cross-stitched by a friend white light. Now the tree is lit in relationships. Each week will consist of just completed the Marriage Course held at St 17/18th century Naples, where 35 years ago; a pipe cleaner Santa late November for all the early a candlelit dinner for two, well planned wealthy patrons commissioned Peter’s. We are about to embark on our next given to me by my grandparents shoppers. and thoughtful videos, discussions (in artists to create stunning Nativity when I was 19 days old – my first couples only) and some homework for The most awe inspiring, exquisite scenes. Those in the museum were Marriage Course, which will start in the second Christmas; various ornaments the week ahead. Each guest is given tree, however, is in the Medieval donated by various collectors; from different countries given their own workbook/manual for the week of January 2018 in the parish centre. Sculpture Gallery of The they range in size from six inches by well-travelled friends, and of course. Metropolitan Museum of Art. to twenty inches. All have been course many of the more usual It stands in front of a massive beautifully moulded with painted The course is an opportunity for Even after 35 years of marriage, A rich and rewarding experience ornaments. • • screen from the cathedral of arms and heads. Their bodies couples to spend quality time with we have learned a lot and that has enhanced our marriage – Since I grew up in Manhattan, I Valladolid in Spain. are of wire so that they can be each other each week and extends been challenged – all in a very definitely worthwhile. also loved the huge tree at the posed in different positions, and this into a concept of ‘marriage time’, comfortable environment. Thanks The tree itself has over 50 angels • Give it a try! You won’t regret it. Rockefeller Center. The lights their costumes are silk. The scene ie designated time each week to build to all the team. in rich silk dresses, some are We learned so much. used to be switched on on 6 is lit by electric church candles your relationship. At the end of the jewelled, others carry objects of Life often gets in the way: pressures You will take away a perfect set of December – a nod to when the city and sacred music is played. It’s course you come away with a better • • gold and silver. At the base of the of work, keeping on top of the tools useful for married couples of was New Amsterdam. The Dutch a wonderful experience just to understanding of each other and a set tree is the Nativity scene complete housework and looking after the all ages. give presents then; Christmas is a ‘stand and stare’. of tools that will help you going forward. with shepherds, sheep, the kings children. The marriage course solemn feast day. • A time to reflect on your marriage, and their attendants. On the fields But of course, your favourite tree Take a look at some reactions of reminds you of the importance of understand and take forward into To get to the tree from 5th Avenue and low hills around them peasant is the one in your own home − and people on previous courses. making time for each other and your marriage together. (St Patrick’s Cathedral is across life goes on, as it does in various so it should be! • This course was extremely helpful building on the foundations of your and provided us with useful tools to first years of love and excitement as The next course starts on Tuesday further build our relationship. The you move into later years. 9 January 2018 at 7.15pm. people running the course were • Married 45 years, but learned To book or to ask any questions welcoming and kind. Would highly new things about me and my wife. call David or Laura on 01625 876752. recommend it. Marriage tools are very useful.

Each couple dines together The smiles show the course is working! The Metropolitan Museum Christmas tree The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree 14 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 15 It’s surreal to think it’s almost been a week since 27/10/17 we then covered ourselves with baptised in that water. I think it’s 29/10/17 mud and sand. It’s so good for we came back from the Holy going to hit me when I get home Think today has been the best your skin − then washed it all off that ‘I’ve been there’! Then it was Climbed (in a minibus) to the top of Mount Tabor where the Land. What a privilege to day yet! We left Bethlehem in the showers. time to head to Nazareth. Lunch transfiguration took place. Then last stop of our pilgrimage is Cana – saw this morning at 7.30 and then one of the jars in which the wine is kept. We were free in the afternoon have gone and walked in the Next step was Temptation first, cracking falafel and then on headed over to Jerusalem to and went back down to the Sea of Galilee for a swim. Feels like we’ve land of Jesus! I’ve absolutely Mountain and the Jordan River. I to the church of the Annunciation. pick up the adults to make our been away for ages, probably because we’ve done so much and yet was so struck by the heat there I still can’t come to terms with loved telling everyone about journey to Galilee together. The it’s also flown by. Highlights have got to have been the church of the and it really felt like a holy place! the experience there... it was it back at Uni this week, but journey would take three hours Annunciation and the River Jordan. I loved all the fun at the Dead Sea We renewed our Baptismal so overwhelming being in the I have to say, I’ve struggled. but we made several stop offs place where Mary was called by as well. on the way. First was the Dead promises while some people It’s so hard to put it into God – still need to process what I It’s been such a life changing trip; my whole visual perspective has Sea that was like a beach and were actually getting dunked was feeling. I love Mary so much; changed and it’s brought reading the Bible to life. Being there adds a words. “It was ABSOLUTELY a spa resort. There’s so much in the water. Then we had a feel like I have a real connection whole other dimension to reading the Gospels. Smelling the smells, insane!!!” is usually my ‘go salt in the water that you can’t paddle in the water. It looked with her – love her boldness and hearing the sounds, seeing the sights, getting a feeling for the place; swim in it as you just float to grimy I have to say, so I wasn’t to’ phrase but honestly it her gutsiness! I feel so lucky to it’s just brought everything to life. Jesus is in the busyness of Jerusalem the top. Reminded me of when I expecting much, but it was the doesn’t do the experience be here experiencing all this and and Bethlehem and the calm and peacefulness of Galilee. Being in those was learning to swim and doing most refreshing water I’ve ever thankful for all the people that old ancient places has just affirmed in my heart even more that Jesus is justice. I’m so desperate for ‘star fish’ on the water, but in the paddled in – the temperature people to go out to the Holy was perfect. My feet felt so clean I am getting to share it with! So SO alive! Dead Sea it was effortless. After grateful to Fr Peter and Fr David. Land and experience what I a good bit of time in the water and still do – bizarre! Jesus was experienced. Here are just a few extracts from the journal I kept. Sarah’s Holy La nd diary University student 23/10/17 Sarah McKay shares Cracking journey! A groovy bus her recent experiences picked us up from Knutsford, coffee machine and everything! Two stops in the Holy Land at the at services, a few coffees and a punnet of grapes later we arrived at end of October Heathrow. All interrogated before handing over our bags, then given 28/10/17 our programmes and tour group hats 24/10/17 We just had Mass at the Primacy of St Peter, just by the shore of the Sea − rather fetching! Cracking flight and Following the visit to the Shepherds’ Fields, we of Galilee where they caught the fish “on the other side” and then had then a half hour transfer to the hotel went to the Church of the Nativity which marks the breakfast. Where Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love me?” three times. Just which is so nice, sharing a room place where Jesus was born. It was absolute chaos been on a boat on the Sea of Galilee and now sitting in the church where with Ailish. Our tour guide is called and really noisy, which in some ways was really the stone is from which Jesus fed the 5,000. Getting 5,000 people to hear Lazarus – seems like a legend. Saw disappointing. When I touched the star though, I the wall as we were driving through felt a great sense of power and love. And one good your voice is immense, never mind being able to feed them all with five – he says he’s going to tell us about thing: I’ve learned how much Jesus means to me and loaves and two fishes! all the politics. Can’t believe we’re it really made me think about how respectful I am to Now in the church built above the house of St Peter’s mother in law. It’s here! Jesus in my daily life. so peaceful and still as well, such a nice place to sit. It’s right by the Sea I’ve loved being in Bethlehem and Jerusalem. I don’t of Galilee in the old town of Capernaum. I love the contrast of being know if it was what I expected. It’s been so busy here by the sea with the busyness of Bethlehem and Jerusalem. and so touristy but during those times there have I’ve just turned around and realised that this is where we are having been real moments of peace and encounter. Also confession! Woozaroonies what a gift confession is! I’m just sitting on a the busyness makes it more relatable to Jesus’ time. rock with my feet in the water! Thank you that nothing can separate me Witnessing the conflict between Israel and Palestine from you! and going through the wall has been so sad. Been to the Mount of the Beatitudes and now at Magdala in the church where the altar is in the shape of a boat.

16 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 17 To celebrate our joint Golden Jubilees, parishioners from St Philip’s Offerton Golden days and Holy Spirit Marple, together with Youth pilgrimage to St Peter’s Hazel Grove embarked on a pilgrimage to Rome. in Rome Sunday 15th October saw us all meeting up at Manchester Airport at the early hour Josephine Smith from St Philip’s recounts of 4.45am. After an uneventful flight we the experience of the group who travelled to the Holy Land landed to find blue skies and sunshine in Rome. Here we met our tour guide, Pilar Rome recently. and were whisked away to Beda College At the beginning of last week we for Mass. This was followed by getting to good time and get good seats for this. history of the Anzio landings; it was very embarked on a monumental journey Roisin Nolan considers the negatives and our hotel for a welcome meal and some However, the Roman traffic had other much appreciated. After our visit to Anzio at sunrise to a country many of us had positives of her Holy Land experience time to unpack and relax. ideas − it was so bad − by the time the it was back on the coach for a short drive never been to, with a group of people coach had parked, the queues to go to a great seafood restaurant for lunch Day 2: It was an early morning call for many of us didn’t know. through security seemed to be miles long − amazing food. I don’t think I’ve seen or to life around us. Despite the initial reconciliation service, at an outdoor departure for Mass at St Peter’s basilica and the Pope arrived early!! So, no seats eaten so many different fish – delicious. The youth pilgrimage to the Holy Land culture shock some of us had – “what do Mass in Jerusalem with the Islamic at 7.15am at the altar of San Giovanni and nowhere near the front − but we really began at Heathrow airport, with a you mean we can’t drink the tap water?” call to prayer reverberating around Paolo II. Early Mass meant that we Day 6: Friday 20th October was our last could see Pope Francis on the big disgruntled group of sleepy teenagers – there was a sense of familiarity the city, and at the Dead Sea where avoided the crowds! Even so, by the time full day in Rome and after a leisurely being bombarded with associated with a place we’d grown we felt weightless in the dense we had had Mass and time to explore breakfast (no early call today!) we left questions by (probably up hearing about. salt water. the basilica, many people were by coach for the Church of the equally tired) El Al One of the most moving A week after returning home, we’ve entering St Peter’s and the Twelve Apostles for Mass. airline staff. The aspects of the pilgrimage been able to reflect on the extraordinary queues to go through This church is a minor heightened was being able to talk trip and the things we experienced security were growing basilica and was security was to young Palestinians there. We’ve built strong friendships by the minute! After originally dedicated an unsettling growing up in the Holy with the fellow pilgrims and though the early start, to St James and reminder of Land, from students at we’re missing the hot weather and breakfast back at St Philip whose the political Bethlehem University hummus, it’s been fun to reminisce the hotel was much remains are kept turmoil that with plans to relocate to with them. appreciated, especially there. After Mass it sadly exists in a the US, to a running group Of course, none of this would have been as we were soon on the was back on the coach country so steeped who hold marathons as a possible if not for the group leaders, coach again going back to drive to Santa Maria in history and beauty, form of protest for freedom especially Fr Peter and Fr David who into Rome. Here Pilar guided us Maggiore, the largest church but it served to add to our of movement. led the youth pilgrimage, and their through the Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, in Rome dedicated to Our Lady. Under experience of the Middle East. Hearing their views made one thing tireless efforts organising the trip the Trevi fountain and the Spanish Steps. the high altar is the Crypt of the Nativity screens and as a tiny figure far away. Arriving in Bethlehem on the first night, clear to us − everyone just wants peace. despite many setbacks. It was better where a crystal reliquary contains wood Day 3: Our journey was to Montecassino, Not what we hoped for but we were a world that had only existed through And peace we found; on the shore than we could have hoped for and we’re from the Crib of the Nativity. 81 miles from Rome. The monastery, there and for me it was well worth it. stories in the Bible and the news came of the Sea of Galilee where we had a all extremely grateful. founded by St Benedict, sits at the top As a treat (?) or maybe a test, we were Our final church of this pilgrimage was of a rocky hill and is reached by a series now let loose to find our own way to the the Pope’s church in Rome, St John of hairpin bends. For a place with such church of Santa Maria Trastevere for Lateran. It is the Papal archbasilica and, a violent history, and the scene of fierce Mass at 3pm. A bit daunting, but with being the oldest, it has precedence over fighting in WW2, it now feels Pilar’s help in drawing a route on our the other papal major basilicas. After our full of peace and calm. Our Mass maps, all arrived safely and on time. This visit to St John Lateran the coach took us at Montecassino was in the crypt which church is one of the oldest in Rome and back to the hotel. Time to don our glad was so beautiful with many mosaics has many 13th century mosaics. A real rags for a Grand Gala Dinner. From the Kir covering the walls. As a bonus, the treat was a great meal that evening at the Royale cocktail to the delicious cake and acoustics were wonderful and amplified Casa Coppelle and a coach tour of Rome all the courses in between, it was a truly our singing greatly. by night. magnificent dinner and a fitting end to our pilgrimage to Rome. After a wonderful lunch a visit was made Day 5: Started with a coach trip to to the Commonwealth War Cemetery Nettuno, which is on the coast. Our Mass Time then to return to reality − goodbye which was a very moving and thought today was in the Crypt of Sanctuary sunny Rome and hello Manchester which provoking experience. On the side of St Maria Goretti. Here, under the was in the grip of Storm Brian and a VERY of Montecassino is a war cemetery altar in a glass case is the wax figure of hairy landing. It goes without saying that dedicated to all the Polish soldiers the saint, within which lie her skeletal this pilgrimage would not have been the who died in the fighting there − again a remains. A little further down the coast success it was without all the hard work sombre and moving sight. is Anzio, where again we visited the done by Peter Smith in organising it, our Day 4: Wednesday 18th October, we set Commonwealth War Cemetery. Here, very knowledgeable tour guide Pilar and off on the coach at 8am for the Papal Giuglio, a friend and colleague of Pilar, Father Peter and Father Bernie to say Bronze statue of St Peter on the shore of the Sea of Galilee audience. We thought we would be in gave a very interesting talk about the Mass for us. 18 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 19 Matthew and James Allen aged people from the parish and both 17 and 12, both former pupils of St boys attend Celebrate (charismatic Peter’s school, are involved in SPY Catholic) events and Fanning the (St Peter’s Youth) and in the young Flame camp in summer. They both peoples’ music at church. Last year share a love of acting – and would Matthew went to Poland for the seem to be pretty successful World Youth Day with other young so far! One, no two, to watch

Matthew writes… James writes… It was an amazing experience to play Wally Webb in ‘Our Town’ at the Royal Exchange I’m really enjoying being Theatre. Working with an outstanding director, exploring different ways in which part of ‘Elf the Musical’, characters can show their inner selves and playing with different ideas of expressing playing Michael Hobbs this, was mesmerising. The play followed everyday people through their lives, in rotation with three reflecting on life and death and ‘the eternal’ within us. other boys. Rehearsing in I made great contacts, even friends, London and performing in with people who have worked and Plymouth has meant missing studied at the most prestigious school (and friends!) but I’ve institutions such as RADA had a tutor to help me keep up. and RSC. It’s the biggest role I’ve had so I’m so lucky to have been far and great fun (although rather part of many productions, hot on stage in full winter clothes!). for example at the Royal I love making people happy and that’s Exchange, RNCM (Royal what Elf is all about. When you see the Northern College of sleigh, it makes you feel excited and happy, remembering all the special times Music) and elsewhere James Allen including National at Christmas. Youth Theatre last I’d like to be an actor when I’m older. I’ve summer. Little learned a lot from my brother and love being pieces of TV and on stage, for example in the Royal Exchange’s film work have productions of ‘Hamlet’ and ‘Husbands and been great experience; last year in Sons’ and in other musical productions across the North West. I’ve also really ‘Doctors’ I played Finn Shawcross in an episode. enjoyed voice acting this year, playing Kerry the frog in the children’s animation However, the stage is what I love most. Throwing myself around as Cosmo on ‘Mofy’ on Channel 5. It’s good fun and great to see the results. stage to ‘Make ‘em laugh’ in ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ at the RNCM was an exhilarating I’m looking forward to coming home again and performing in ‘Elf’ at the Lowry, experience, literally making people laugh is something I strive to do! Playing music then in another series of ‘Mofy’ and who knows what next? I know I’ll be glad to is still a big part of my life, including at SPY and at Youth Masses and I hope to use be back with my friends and family, playing music with my sister and spending this in my career. time with my friends from school and church. I really have missed playing my Once I finish my sixth form musical theatre studies (hard work, but great fun instruments and can’t wait to get back on the drum kit again! and worthwhile training in dance and singing as well as acting), I’m hoping to get to drama school, to study acting. In the meantime, I’m available for work… and seeing as many productions and meeting as many people in the industry as possible.

20 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 ShineShine Issue Issue 3 3 DecemberDecember 20172017 2121 Mary’s corner Time now just to take a break from the hustle and bustle, to sit down quietly, relax your body, settle your mind and let Mary Hardiman’s reflection on this familiar piece from scripture find a place in your heart.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that God loved the world so much that go back and start down a different Trust – surrender – believe – receive. path. But God keeps on beckoning us everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have He gave His only son. A child is the Don’t trust, don’t surrender, don’t most precious thing any parent could towards Him, with the Holy Spirit to eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to believe, don’t receive. want. I have heard many parents guide us. WE complicate it, not God. We make condemn the world, but that through him the world might be talking about the difficulties they But you know, the everlasting or God so small. We can’t accept that saved. Whoever believes in him will not be condemned, but face when their children leave home; eternal life Jesus speaks of in this God loves us because we don’t some call it ‘empty nest syndrome’. passage is not just something for whoever does not believe has already been condemned, because really love ourselves. I think we’re all after we die. It starts now, in this And whilst every parent knows it frightened of being shown up as evil he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. And moment, in the life of our eternal God has to happen, it comes at a great and guilty. I asked you at the start this is the verdict, that the light came into the world, but people which flows in us and through us. This emotional price. Any love is a costly how you would feel about sharing life is free, free of charge. We don’t preferred darkness to light, because their works were evil. For commodity, especially parental the worst thing you’d ever done in have to DO anything to get it – Jesus everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not love. God gave the world His most our parish magazine. We don’t want did that bit already. We just have to treasured possession – not a piece of those things brought into the light come toward the light, so that his works might not be exposed. accept it. I don’t know about you, but jewellery, a family heirloom, a car or because maybe they are shameful or when I think of everlasting life, I think But whoever lives the truth comes to the light, so that his works embarrassing. We may feel rejected if a house; he gave the world His only I’ll need the whole of eternity just to may be clearly seen as done in God.” people knew what we were really like. son, in full knowledge of the itinerant thank God for what He’s already done John 3: 16-17 life Jesus would live, the rejection he for me. To get back to the people I work would experience and ultimately the with... when I listen to their stories, I There’s a tough message too though ignominious death he would suffer. often feel as though I’m sitting in the in this bit of John’s gospel. Jesus says heart of God Himself and, in some But He did it anyway. Because He that He’s not come to condemn the small way, I can see them through the loves us that much. world but whoever refuses to believe eyes of Jesus. I know that it’s a gift, is condemned already. So, if Jesus God gave us the gift of Jesus so that but I see that as part of the eternal hasn’t come to condemn the world, we would not be lost. Again and again life that Jesus offers to all of us, not then who is doing the condemning? in the gospels we read stories of how just to me. We may condemn others, I have two questions for you to think Jesus sought out the lost: the parable I work two days a week with people we may condemn ourselves but I about today. of the missing sheep, the lost coin, who suffer from alcohol or drug don’t think for one minute that we the Samaritan woman at the well, the addiction. A good number of those can pin that badge of condemnation woman who touched His cloak, the I work with have been brought up in on God. The light of God’s love will 1. How would you feel if I asked you to give woman caught committing adultery, Christian households. I have listened never hurt our eyes – it just shows us Mary Magdala, Levi, Zaccheus, to many clients talk about the guilt the way to salvation. away your most treasured possession? Bartimeus… the list goes on. and shame around their behaviour I want to finish with a quote. It’s from and around the choices they’ve made. What does it mean to be lost? Lost in Jean Vanier, the founder of the l’Arche What makes me feel really sad is that 2. How you would feel if you were asked to what? Being lost means we can’t find community which works with and for the God they understand is often a our way somewhere. People can be people with disabilities. He says this: publish here in this magazine the worst lost in loneliness and isolation, in bad God of judgement and harshness. The thing you have ever done? relationships, in spiritual blindness, in condemnation they feel is not from “We cannot accept our poverty and despair or in a cycle of sin. People can God but from someone else’s view of frailty unless we discover that we are be lost when they don’t feel needed. God, passed onto them in childhood. loved just as we are. When we realise Please bear with me – both questions God doesn’t want that. He wants us They cannot live in the light because that we do not have to be clever, powerful or successful in order to be are relevant. to know where we are going, to be they don’t know God’s mercy. And certain of our destination and of how neither can we live in the light unless loved, then we can live in truth, come to get there – to Zion, the holy city we too know God’s mercy. There is a to the light and be led by the Spirit of of God. You and I are heaven bound, familiarity and safety in the darkness God. We are no longer fearful.” where one day we will see God face to and in the protective wall that keeps God loved the world so much that He face. Nobody said the journey would us there. gave His only son, so that everyone be easy – there may be so many God keeps it simple; His mercy or our who believes in Him may not be lost, obstacles which mean we have to condemnation. We have a choice: but may have eternal life.

22 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 ShineShine Issue Issue 3 3 DecemberDecember 20172017 2323 Lourdes as seen by two doctors I last visited Lourdes with the Shrewsbury diocese as a third year medical student in 2005. I travelled there and back on the ‘Jumbulance’, a coach-cum-ambulance transporting some of the most dependent and disabled pilgrims. I was a willing helper, but my relative lack of medical knowledge and experience limited my ability to offer more. I remember thinking at the time that it would be wonderful to come back as a fully qualified doctor one day and work as part of the medical team. Now a fully qualified GP and A+E doctor, I am finally able to take leave whenever I like. I was very pleased to have the chance to go back to Lourdes with Read how Will MacManus found his time in Lourdes Jude Raper went to Lourdes for the first time this year. She volunteered Shrewsbury diocese this summer. It was a pleasure to meet and work with this year and from where he drew his inspiration. to help as a doctor and found she became so much more there. some senior medics and the excellent The doctors all supported each other nurses, so well led by Nuala Fitzmaurice. during the week. We shared all duties If I was forced to sum the whole people’s stories, and having the time to personal journey and I left certain that Also impressive were all the healthcare during the day, and then there was a thing up in one word, it would be really listen. The volunteers at Lourdes I am created to do what I do − it is my assistants and other volunteers. timetable for being ‘on duty’ overnight ‘welcome’. From the very start of the impressed me so much, especially the vocation, and I can achieve my best with It was inspiring to witness all these where one of us would attend to unwell journey, as we waited and waited young people who were so attentive, so His support. experienced and busy healthcare pilgrims on request from the nursing and waited for the plane to depart, I well mannered, so well organised and My most valuable experience was my professionals giving up their valuable team. Even overnight, I never once felt already felt the overwhelming sense without whom the VIPs could not have highly privileged opportunity to visit the free time to help make happen a safe, isolated or unsupported. of welcome and belonging. The experienced everything they did in such grotto at night, when the sanctuary was happy and successful pilgrimage to Despite these responsibilities, there was people I met and the conversations comfort and such loving care. Many of all locked up. I was on call overnight in Lourdes, year after year. still plenty of time to really get in to the we had, even when first meeting in our volunteers will find their vocations in the Accueil, so we were able to visit the I travelled to Lourdes across land on spirit of Lourdes as well. We were able Manchester Airport, were typical Lourdes and we will see them return in grotto in the peaceful, quiet time. We coach, boat and train – a long journey, to attend services and Masses and visit examples of the whole trip; I knew I years to come, I suspect. sat in front of the grotto and its cone taking almost 24 hours. My first medical the sights in and around Lourdes itself. was part of an amazing family, I felt In Lourdes, I was not merely a doctor, I of candles, surrounded by the floodlit duty was being asked to see a young I went into medicine as a career embraced and I knew I was meant was a pilgrim. I truly came to understand architecture of the sanctuary; we had pregnant Portuguese woman with a hoping to care for sick people to be there. The experiences that what it means to be part of a pilgrim the precious time to pray, to read, to suspected deep vein thrombosis (it and work with inspiring teams of people shared with me in Lourdes people. For me personally, I came listen and to reflect. wasn’t!) on the ferry across the Channel. most unwell of the travelling pilgrims, healthcare professionals. Nowhere in have stayed with me and helped me at a time when, though enjoying At the very start of the journey, in the The nurses and several volunteers were the ‘VIPs’, stayed on the hospital ward my experience so far have I seen this to grow. my profession as much as ever, the luxury of Manchester Airport’s departure rallying, helping to translate with their for the week. As doctors, we assessed to be more evident than in Lourdes. I If you are wondering whether to join our increasing and inevitable politics were lounge, someone said to me that you do mobile phones. I knew then I wouldn’t the VIPs on a regular basis, as well as really felt part of the care team – and team as a volunteer doctor or nurse, leaving me wondering whether I could not decide to go to Lourdes, but you are have to worry during the pilgrimage seeing any other pilgrims on request the teenage volunteers, right up to the you need not have any anxieties. It is achieve what I want to achieve for my invited, and that you are given what you as I would always have a great team in our assessment room – much like senior medical staff, were all part of it. such a lovely team and so much fun. patients and their families in the current need in Lourdes. How very true that is. around me. a GP consultation room. This brought Everyone had an essential role to play You have time to assess and look after climate. I had not realised how much Thank you so much to those who The hospital ward in Lourdes is very us a wide range of ‘patients’, from and everyone was so willing to do it. the VIPs; the hub of our ward in the I needed that trip to Lourdes. I remain took so much care and attention to well equipped, with spacious rooms pregnant women and babies, to elderly The experience really restored my faith Accueil was surely the tea and coffee astonished by the homilies and the organise the whole pilgrimage. Thank and good facilities. It is somewhat priests! The team of doctors provided in human kindness and commitment, trolley! Surrounded by chairs, with a catechesis, the conversations I had you for welcoming me, an ex-pat from similar to a normal UK hospital ward, a wide range of background skills, from and the piety and faith of the sick constant supply of sustenance, here with new friends, how much Our Lord the Birmingham diocese, into such a with nurses and care staff carrying out experienced GPs to consultants in pilgrims was a true inspiration. I expect was where the real care took place, the spoke personally to me during those wonderful family of lifelong friends! regular rounds and standard duties. The paediatrics and palliative medicine. I will now be a regular. spiritual care from each to all, hearing interactions. Lourdes was vital to my A la prochaine! 24 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 25 I Colour in K D S this Nativity scene

Don’t miss out on Lourdes! A newcomer to the Lourdes’ experience, Liam Devlin reflects on his time there with the diocesan pilgrimage this summer.

This summer was the first time I went to Lourdes. I almost favourite was the torchlight procession as all the candles SPOT THE 5 DIFFERENCES! didn’t go and that would have been a huge mistake. added to the beauty of the service. Throughout the whole St Peter’s Youth, a group of about 30 teenagers and young of the Domain, there is a very calm atmosphere and it is adults, travelled overland from Our Lady’s. incredible to experience. A big part of the volunteering at Lourdes is to accompany The other wonderful part is the friends you make. I wasn’t the VIPs around the Domain but, to be honest, they’re so expecting our group to become a tight-knit family within nice and pleasant to be with that you don’t even think of it as days and it isn’t an exaggeration to say that Lourdes work. They appreciate the work the volunteers do so much, completely changes your relationships with people. but the impression they make on us is equally big and you It creates an incredibly open and friendly feeling and it’s always look forward to meeting the next VIP and seeing what amazing who you get to know even across other groups in stories they’ll share. I’m also very skilled at manoeuvring a the diocese. wheelchair now as well! Before I went, several people told me that Lourdes is All the services at Lourdes are incredible – peaceful yet definitely something you have to experience for yourself. powerful. Looking at everyone around you joined in prayer is I’ve tried to describe it, but I would agree it is not really empowering, especially as someone still discovering something to miss out on. their faith. It is amazing to be a part of and my personal If YOU get the chance to go to Lourdes, don’t hesitate!

26 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 Shine Issue 3 December 2017 27 Here’s a list of the parish groups and activities at St Peter’s

Celebrating Liturgy Exploring faith Supporting Families and Youth Altar linen Alpha Bereavement support Pat Tomlinson: 0161 456 7627 Rachel McKay: 0161 487 1659 Helen Lyons: 07854 928072 [email protected] Altar servers Childrens’ liturgy Fr Peter, for now Baptism programme Janice Ormerod: 0161 449 5840 Anne-Marie Galogly Explorers Church cleaners Karen Haines - [email protected] Margaret King: 0161 483 4584 Joe O’Brien: 07976 423 203 Confirmation programme [email protected] Eucharistic ministers Julie Williams Little fishes Housebound [email protected] Maureen Horton: 0161 483 1590 Anne Wroe: 07763 387001 [email protected] First sacraments preparation [email protected] Teresa Thiele: 07778 848709 Church Marriage and family life group [email protected] Tony Martin: 0161 483 7720 David Small: 01625 876 752 [email protected] Marriage preparation SPY group Fr Peter Flower arrangers David Small: 01625 876 752 Colette Christie: 0161 427 4982 RCIA [email protected] Tony Martin 0161 483 7720 Outreaching in the community [email protected] Lay-led liturgy Hospital chaplaincy Rachel McKay: 0161 487 1659 Vocations Chaplaincy Office: 0161 419 5889 [email protected] Fr Peter Hospital Chaplaincy (Emergency) Adult and junior choirs Hospital switchboard will bleep Eileen Rigg: 01625 872948 0161 483 1010 [email protected] Names and contact details are correct at Via St Peter’s Folk group the time the magazine 0161 483 3476 Steph Leyden: 0161 456 6285 [email protected] [email protected] went to print, but are subject to change. Justice and peace Piety stall Carmel O’Malley: 0161 483 8296 Denise Noon: 0161 483 0217 LAMBS Posada Sharing faith Jackie Mackay: 0161 483 6348 Maria Oates: [email protected] CaFE Kath Coll: 0161 456 0881 Readers Rachel McKay: 0161 487 1659 [email protected] Monica Beckitt: [email protected] Lenten lunches [email protected] Centering prayer Helen Lyons: 07854 928072 Welcomers Mike O’Malley: 0161 483 8296 Jackie Mackay: 0161 483 6348 Anne-Marie Bailey: 0161 456 2213 [email protected] Kath Coll: 0161 456 0881 [email protected] Churches Together activities Lourdes group Cath Smith: 0161 612 3592 Mary Conway-Kelly: 07809 748805 [email protected] Creating social activity Luncheon club Guided prayer Margaret Hulme: 07775 162694 Parish newsletter Mike O’Malley: 0161 483 8296 Missio Monica Beckitt [email protected] [email protected] Fiona Preece: 0161 456 4319 Holy hour and prayer ministry Refugees store Parish noticeboards Laura Small: 01625 876 752 Carmel O’Malley: 0161 483 8296 Outside - Julie Williams: [email protected] [email protected] Schools chaplaincy Lending library Inside - Barbara Goodier St Peter’s Ann Bonner: 0161 456 6152 Fr P Sharrocks: 0161 483 2431 Parish trips [email protected] Fr Peter 0161 483 3476 LPA liaison [email protected] St Simon’s Julie Williams: 0161 285 0244 Fr P Sharrocks: 0161 483 9696 Parish website [email protected] Maria Oates: [email protected] 0161 483 3476 Mother’s prayers St James’ High School - Via School Special events Teresa Thiele: 07778 848709 0161 482 6900 Helen Lyons: 07854 928072 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Praise and worship Harrytown High School - Via School Tea and coffee after Mass Rachel McKay: 0161 487 1659 0161 430 5277 Maria Oates: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Theatre group Rosary groups: adult and children Aquinas 6th form college Tony Martin: 0161 483 7720 Laura Small: 01625 876 752 Duncan Whelan: 0161 483 3237 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] uk Walking group Scripture group SVP: adult and youth Tony Martin: 0161 483 7720 Mike O’Malley: 0161 483 8296 Lorraine Parker: 0161 456 5629 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]