Christmas 2014

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Historic King’s Lynn RAF hero who Pontifical High Seafarers’ became social Mass centre opened reformer - centre pages - page 9 - on page 11 Invested in Order of Holy Sepulchre Bishop Alan and Mgr Peter Leeming, parish priest of OLEM in Cambridge, were each installed knights of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem on 22 November. They were invested with the robes and insignia of the order by His Dr David L G Smith, Lieutenant of the Order in and Wales and His Excellency Bishop Kevin McDonald, Grand Prior in England and Wales. Ten knights and dames were installed at a Mass of investiture in Mgr Peter Leeming, Mgr Eugene Harkness, His Excellency St Georges Cathedral, Southwark. The Mass was attended by 200 Dr David L G Smith, Lieutenant of the Order in England existing knights and dames from all sections of England and Wales, including eight knights and dames from the Diocese of East Anglia. and Wales and Bishop Alan after the investiture, above Cathedral fayre The priests in the order each had a mozetta, a short cape covering and with Bishop Kevin Mc Donald and guest below their shoulders, and emblazoned with a large red Jerusalem cross. story and picture During the Mass, the Chancellor of the Order read the Brief received from the Cardinal Grand Master in Rome. As Bishop Alan, and separately Mgr Peter, stepped forward, they knelt at the altar to come before the Grand Prior who invested him with the mozetta and placed the cross around his neck. Bishop Alan had attended a day seminar in London, along with 11 other investees. Mgr Peter had attended a similar event earlier that year, followed by a Vigil Service at St Georges Cathedral. This prepared them for entry into the order and is reminiscent of the crusaders in the 12th and 13th centuries from whom the order originated. After the Investiture, Bishop Alan and Mgr Peter attended a grand lunch of the knights and dames at the Great Hall in Lincolns Inn in London. Christmas message from Bishop Alan The celebration of the birth of Our Lord closer relationship with one another. all human experiences an opportunity friends. Let us be challenged by the is an occasion marked by awe and It is here that we do not simply for us to grow in closer union with Him. Incarnate Christ as we discover Him in wonder at the beautiful reality that 2,000 remember Christ, but we find him alive Our daily lives, with all that they the needy of our world. years ago, in the poverty of a stable, God and living amongst us today. include, our work, our relationships, our And let us remember that the God who became man and shared our human This is why we cannot forget those leisure time,, the good we do for others, became man in Jesus Christ, continues condition. who live in poverty, hunger, everything that goes to make up our day, to walk beside us here wherever our It is also marked by great joy, both homelessness and loneliness. are ways for us to meet Jesus Christ path through life leads us, loving us and because of the mystery we celebrate and Christ identified himself with these afresh and also an opportunity to help encouraging us, drawing us to himself. also by the fact this season often brings our brothers and sisters. As we seek to others to meet him. May the Christ Child bring you peace families and friends together to spend serve them with practical love we For whatever we are doing, whatever and joy and may the prayers of Mary and time with one another and to enjoy identify ourselves with them too and in we are experiencing, Christ has already Joseph bring God’s blessing on your together the celebrations traditionally this discover Christ himself alive and been there before us and he has made it families. attached to this celebration. living amongst us today. holy, he has made it a path to God. It is absolutely right and proper that S John will remind us in his Gospel So let us celebrate the Nativity of Our we mark Christmas and the whole that at Christmas The Word became Lord Jesus Christ with great A very Happy and Blessed Christmas season with great festivity flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:4). thanksgiving and joy. As we contemplate Christmas to you all! and celebration - not just to remember In the Incarnation, Christ experienced the beauty of the Christmas Crib, let us + Alan S Hopes what God has done for us in Christ but for himself the fullness of human life. be drawn into a deeper relationship with also because we are brought in to a Through the Incarnation, He has made Christ and with our families and Bishop of East Anglia Maggie’s gift Margaret Stobo, known to many as Maggie, a parishioner for many years at the Sacred Heart in Nayland, has bequeathed the residue of her estate to the Diocese of East Anglia. Maggie died in 2011 Advertisement and through her enormous generosity left a gift of £1m to Woldingham School. The legacy to the diocese amounts to £2.3m, a very large Cribs for sale at St Francis’ fayre amount by any Many parishes, schools, groups and individuals are now standards, finance manager John Pitt said. preparing for Christmas festivities. The picture shows an event “This money will be used to underwrite at St Francis of Assisi School in Norwich where Mary suitable projects in the coming decades for Rossington was selling cribs and other Christmas items. the benefit of the whole diocese,” he said. Also pictured are Veronica Byrne and Michelle York. Please remember Maggie in your prayers. A Happy and Holy Christmas Page Two CATHOLIC EAST ANGLIA Christmas 2014

Fr David inducted at Diss On his first visit to the parish of merciful and healing love. St Henry Morse at Diss Bishop When we experience God’s Alan presided over the forgiveness, the Bishop said, we induction of Fr David Bagstaff. too can become conduits of His Parishioners from Father love. David’s previous parish of “Finally the priest must be a North Walsham, man of study: he never preaches Parishioners enjoying the celebration at St Luke’s representatives of other himself: always Jesus Christ, churches in the town and always His gospel,” Bishop members of Father David’s Alan said. St Lukes Silver Jubilee family joined the congregation. With Father David’s help, Fr David Bagstaff with Bishop Alan After a long time of preparation and prayer, the One of the guests was Fr said the Bishop, the parish communities of St Luke’s Parish celebrated their Silver Simon Blakesley, now parish community would be an Jubilee in on 20 September. priest of Newmarket, who built effective sign of the New A brief history book was produced with the new church. Evangelisation, and of God’s contributions from priests serve at the Peterborough In his homily Bishop Alan love and mercy. parish, the religious sisters, the parishioners, new and said there were four essential Growing in holiness had to be old. foundations to being a priest. at the heart of the parish vision. John Fisher School and various groups in the parish “A priest was called to be a Fr David then renewed the provided music and Parishioners celebrating, above, and man of prayer: prayer should be promises made at his entertainment as a Deanery clergy with Bishop Alan, below at the heart of his daily life and ordination, and the prelude on the evening that of each member of the congregation was invited to before the main event. parish community. offer him their support and A cake with the picture “He was called to be a man of encouragement. He was given of St Luke’s Church on the Eucharist, that, through the the key to the church as a top was cut, see the daily offering of Mass, he would symbol of his care for the picture. grow in God’s likeness. building and its community. The guest at the main “He should be a priest of A celebration supper for all celebration was Bishop Alan who celebrated Mass at a reconciliation, becoming in followed the Mass in the church packed church with deanery clergy and former priests reality an agent of God’s community room. of the parish including Mgr Paul Hypher, Fr Henry McCarthy, Fr John Warrington, and Fr Luke Goymour. Fr Luke is a member of the parish ordained to the priesthood four years ago. Sallette priests now at All Souls Parish priest Fr John Minh said: “Mass on the Bishop Alan presided over the Sunday was presided by Mgr Hypher who built St Induction Mass of the three new Luke’s church. He was so pleased the communities he priests at St Peter and All Souls in saw 25 years ago have grown to become cosmopolitan.” Peterborough. Parish priest is Fr Adam Sowa who is accompanied by Fr FrAfter 13John’s years at East Dereham, presentation a special presentation Waldimar Smialek and Fr Damian was made to Fr John Barnes at Aldiss Park, home to Kramarz. Dereham Town football club. All three are from Poland and More than 130 people attended to see Fr John receive belong to the Our Lady of La a cheque as a gift from all the parishioners and a scrap Sallette Missionary Order which book with many momentos, photos, and letters of has its origins from France but has appreciation. spread throughout the world. Fr John was met by Deacon Martin Sanderson, Donal The order was inspired by an Hannon - chairman of the parish council and Rex Baker apparition of Our Lady to two - head of the finance committee. children, Maximin Giraud and Donal gave the speech, and the cheque was presented Melanie Calvat in 1846. by Catherine Perkins, outgoing head of finance They were looking after cattle The three priests from Poland are Chiappinelli and John Bedford. committee. when Our Lady appeared to them among many of the order who are Pictured here are Bishop Alan with and gave them a message or serving parish communities The Provincial of La Sallette Order Fr repentance and devotion to her son. Antonia Moffat, stayingstaying in touch in with touch the Christian throughout the world but especially Andrew with Frs Adam Waldimar and The order set up at Sallette communities in the war zones of Syria and Iraq, in North America. Damian Fr John Mihn (Dean) with founded a missionary school after They were welcomed at their recently sent two large images of the Divine Mercy Deacons John Bedford and Claudio finding it difficult to recruit induction by Bishop and Alan and which she had blessed in Vilnius, Lithuania in front of Chiappinelli. followers from the secular clergy. the parish deacons Claudio the original painted under the direction of St Faustina. “The first one arrived in mid August and was for Samir and his Cathedral in Damascus and for all Syria,” Antonia said. “The Image now stands at the entrance of the TributesFr Peter Brown retired to as ChancellorChancellor of “The new Church‘Fr HallBrown’ was built and Archbishop’s Cathedral near St Anthony’s Statue. the Diocese of East Anglia in September paid for, with a state-of-the-art kitchen, “The second one is for Patriarch Sako of Baghdad for after 43 years service to the church. of which he and the CWL are still Iraq but we had thought it lost but it arrived later. Born and brought up near Haverhill, proud. “I sent both Images to Lebanon. Now we have to pray he trained for the priesthood at “The parish was enormous, with five that somehow this other Image may be taken to Iraq.” Osterley and Oscott and was ordained Mass centres (including Quidenham in 1971. and Attleborough, where the parish After assisting in parishes in Slough, priest was assisted by the Carmelite Corby and King’s Lynn, he was parish Chaplain). priest in Downham Market, “The annual Parish Picnic often Wymondham (14 years) and Cromer (11 attracted 150 parishioners and friends years). He also served as Chancellor for to Eccles Hall – to see who could be the nearly 20 years. one to push Fr Peter into the Pool!” Former Wymondham parishioner Fr Peter retired from active parish Pam Phillips paid tribute to Fr Peter life in 2008 to his cottage in Wells, where and said: “During his time with us, the he still says a weekly Mass. interior of the Church was completely “THANK YOU for all you’ve been and renewed – heating, flooring, lighting done for so many of us,” Pam said, and the like. echoing the feelings of many. Christmas 2014 CATHOLIC EAST ANGLIA Page Three NEW EVANGELISATION Hospital removes barriers: People want to talk and pray Meg Jackson is the fourth evangelist The hospital chapel is a lovely in the series of interviews with women haven for prayer. We are lucky as it bringing the Good News to others. is in a prominent place. Staff and Rebecca Bretherton talks to her about patients come to Mass which is celebrated every Monday at noon. her work as part of the chaplaincy When I go into hospital I stop in the team at Addenbrooke’s University chapel to pray that I will help Hospital in Cambridge. someone today. Sometimes my help is obvious but at other times I just Tell us a little about yourself. have to hope that what I said or did made a difference to someone’s life. I am the youngest of seven children from a huge Irish Catholic family in Tell us what it’s like visiting the the North West. I now live in wards. Cambridge and have two lovely daughters. I have never really Well, we don’t do “cold calls” as planned the way my life has turned such: either the patient or a relative out, God seems to have given me has asked for us. When people are opportunities at just the right time. in hospital they have plenty of time to think about their lives and their You worked as a teacher? fears. Often they are facing death. Hospital removes barriers: people One of the things I loved most about want to talk and pray. my time teaching at St Mary’s School in Cambridge was I will talk about anything the organising the school’s fundraising patient wants to discuss, from God for Lourdes and for projects in to nail varnish! People rarely want Zimbabwe: fancy dress runs and to talk about pain, although often lots of cake stalls. One girl called this is something they are coping our activities FUN-raising rather with. than fundraising, which they certainly were! Usually they need time to put their own thoughts in order and are This work naturally led me to visit concerned about their families. I Lourdes. At first, the town put me always have a prayer book with me off as you have to walk past all the and somehow, even when I open it gift shops but when I reached the at random, the prayers seem to fit grotto it was different. There is with the patient’s thoughts. something really special about the place. Watching my students grow So how are you evangelising? in understanding and empathy as they cared for the sick pilgrims Some people have been away from with us was very special. church for many years and for various reasons. The hospital And now you look after the visitor maybe the first contact with Hospital chaplain at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge Meg Jackson spiritual needs of the sick at the Church for a long time. I may be We arrange baptisms for young lives, it is not miserable in hospital. Addenbrookes. the one they can talk to honestly children. We have wonderful It is a real privilege to share this about their situation. priests who come to hear time with patients and families. I The NHS recognises the importance confessions and anoint the sick. have learnt so much from the faith of looking after the whole person God must be at work because even Some people are scared by the idea of people I have met here. and supports our work. The when the patient list seems endless of anointing: they still think of it as chaplaincy is a multi-faith we get to see everyone and give the ‘last rites’. I explain that it is a The Data Protection Act means that community and we have a fantastic them the time they need. We can sacrament of healing, to give even if you tell the hospital that you relationship with our Anglican and help people realise that God is strength and support. It is not a are Catholic, they cannot pass on your Muslim colleagues. loving, God is forgiving. There is sign that the doctors think you are still time for them to get back on about to die. details. However, there are just so many track with their relationship with Catholics at Addenbrooke’s that we Him. Isn’t encountering so much If you, or someone you know,is in have to concentrate on supporting frailty and illness difficult? hospital and would like a visit you them: patients, their families and We take holy communion to those Despite the fact that we are often need to ask for the chaplaincy team to hospital staff. who want to receive the Eucharist. with people near the end of their be informed. Two vocations directors help ‘discernment’ When Fr Patrick Cleary applied to “Luckily, the annual conference the “best job in the diocese” and I the Diocese of Northampton to be a for vocations directors took place am beginning to see why. priest in 1970, it simply involved an one month after our appointment. “When an individual comes interview with the bishop and “It was quite inspirational to be forward and says that they are gathering one or two testimonials. with a team of priests so dedicated interested in finding out more Today the procedure is more to the work of helping others with about the priesthood and about involved with health checks, the process of discernment. vocation it is the beautiful privilege psychological tests, selection “A priest psychiatrist, spoke of of the director to walk with them to interview, references, retreat, etc. the necessity for each of us, help them see more clearly what the He said: “When Bishop Alan directors and candidates, to have an will of God might be. asked Fr Michael and I to take on inner life where we try to respond “It is quite a daunting role the work which Fr John to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. because it shares the responsibility Warrington had been doing for the Without this our work may be of discerning whether a particular past few years I realised we needed professional enough but hollow and man is called to serve as a priest. to get up to speed quickly. The unworthy of such a great calling.” “The individual is bravely and diocese has four seminarians and Fr Michael said: “The role of generously seeking to offer their Fr Patrick Cleary several applicants. vocations director is described as life in service.” Fr Michael Collis Page Four CATHOLIC EAST ANGLIA Christmas 2014

World cultures win award St Albans primary school in Cambridge has won an equalities award for enriching the classroom experience by including different world cultures, see picture right. Nearly 30 languages are spoken at the school and its diversity has been Fancy dress charity fun run Time lord defeats evil recognised nationally. Children Key stage two at Sacred Heart School in Students at St Mary’s School, Cambridge ran speak Tagalog from the Philippines, Peterborough, pictured above, staged a across Coe Fen to raise charity funds in the Tamil from India and Sri Lanka and production of The Time Lord, a play with annual Fun Run wearing fancy dress costumes Yoruba a West African language. 120 children involved and telling the story inspired by the Legends and Heroes theme. Mother tongue languages also of Lord Emit who embarks on a mission to children feel like global citizens. include Portuguese, Chinese, Headmistress Charlotte Avery said: “We save the world from the evil Dinopods. “The award is acknowledging all Russian and Lithuanian at a school encourage each student to gain sponsorship of Key stage one, foundation stage pupils the excellent activity happening in where nearly half of pupils speak £20 to raise an impressive sum for charity.” and parents filled the school hall for the our school to celebrate having a English as an additional language. Funds will go to Sr Christopher and the CJ three performances. diverse school.” Rachel Swindell, the inclusion Community in Zimbabwe, LAN UK, MENCAP, Isaac in year three commented about the Most children speak English when coordinator, said: “This enriches the play said the play was “like a West End they begin at the school but help is Arthur Rank Hospice, Educaid (Sierra Leone) curriculum and it makes our Show”. available if there are difficulties. and Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust. Horror of war was remembered St Benedict’s St Felix primary school in Haverhill Throughout their work on this project celebrated Remembrance Day with a the pupils gained an understanding of at Grade 1 Shoes on the Danube event. the persecution of the Jews in WW2. St Benedict’s School in This was introduced through the On 11 November the whole school Bury St Edmunds has artwork at Budapest of a line of iron attended the Remembrance Service been awarded a Grade 1 shoes along the river which serves as a service at the War Memorial led by Fr for their 2014 results. memorial to the 15,000 people asked to Michael Teader, pictured left, with four “We were very pleased remove their shoes before being shot. pupils leading the prayers. when we got the ALPS “This year was particularly report,’’ said headteacher meaningful to our Year 5 and 6 pupils as Hugh O’Neill. they have been focussing on WW2 “It meant we were in the through their ‘Shoes on the Danube’ top 1% of all schools project,” the school said. Sleep to change lives nationally for A levels. Twenty six students, some pictured above, from St The children later took on the role of “When our ALPS Bede’s school in Cambridge took part in a sponsored newspaper columnists writing a front advisor visited he sleep out on 12 September to raise money for a school in page article reporting the harrowing explained that Grade 1 is Nakuru, Kenya. incident of the removal of the shoes. only awarded to a school The students undertook a challenge to sleep for one that equals or exceeds the night in a cardboard box under the stars with only a results of the top sleeping bag and their cardboard home for shelter. performing school of the They hoped to raise awareness of the plight of previous year - and for millions of children around the world who have no that reason, there are choice but to sleep rough and in dangerous conditions. sometimes no Grade 1 A classroom for the school in Nakuru would mean 40 schools at all!”. boys and girls would receive an education. “This has been the most With the support of the Nakuru Children’s Project extraordinary couple of (run by St Bede’s staff member, Rebecca Siddall) many months in the school’s would be able to get away from a life “on the streets”. long history. We have gone from the joy of RE task was natural labyrinth seeing our students As part of the St gaining wonderful GCSE Benedict’s Religion is and A level results to the Everywhere week art and shock of the Ofsted no- RE classes from Year 8 notice inspection and its and 11 combined forces to now-withdrawn report,” build a labyrinth out of he said. natural products. “It must be very Students thoroughly difficult for parents and enjoyed using intuition, the wider public to know creativity and imagery to what to make of it all. We build their circuitous hope that this single path that led to the independent ALPS report centre and out again! sets the record straight.” Second wall mural at St Edmunds To mark St Edmund’s Week at St Edmunds Primary in Bury St Edmunds the 300 pupils created a second mural and every child had the opportunity to paint a small piece. Last year we gained permission from the artist, Brian Whelan to use his “King Edmund Saint and Martyr” picture and this year he has allowed us to replicate (as near as possible) his picture called “Silver Night” depicting a city where all faiths are welcome and live in harmony, side by side. Brian said his Holy City was like Santiago de Compostela, Fatima, Guadeloupe or even Bury St Edmunds where a welcome can be found. Parish priest Fr Mark Hackeson was so impressed he had the painting displayed in the church for the Sunday Masses. Dates for diaries Plans to attend huge youth event January 4 Flame2 is one of the largest National class music and drama, in an atmosphere Epiphany Candlelight Catholic Youth events of 2015, taking full of joy. Mass, Poringland, place in Wembley Arena on Saturday 7 Music will be provided by double Norfolk March 2015. The Arena will be filled with grammy award winning Matt Redman 10,000 young people from across the and his band. The day ends with a time of country, receiving faith-filled inspiration Adoration led by Cardinal Vincent February 1 from world class speakers. Confirmed Nichols. Regional Youth Mass in speakers include Cardinal Luis Tagle Flame2 is open to anyone in school year Peterborough from Manila, Philippines; Baroness 10 and above, up to young adult. We are Sheila Hollins; and David Wells. taking a group from East Anglia! More March 7 Throughout the day speakers will give details at Flame II (National bursts of input, interspersed with world www.catholiceastanglia.org/youth Event), Wembley

May 2 - 4 Ignite Diocesan Youth Call to join Ignite Team Festival, Swaffham and Hamish MacQueen (Director of Youth gives team members an opportunity to Walk to Walsingham Ministry) considers the benefits of having a step back from normal life to discern full-time diocesan youth mission team, their own future. May 30/31 planned to launch next September. • The team can support each other as a community. Celebrate Family “You could say the first ‘mission team’ “For our new East Anglia Mission Conference, Bury St was the 12 disciples, so it’s a model as old Team (called the Ignite Team), we are Edmunds as the Church itself!,” he said. looking for three young people age 18 -29, “Many dioceses now have youth initially for a year, starting in September June 14 mission teams - they have become the 2015. We’re not looking for people who Regional Youth Mass in preferred model of youth ministry in the are perfect, but like the disciples, people UK and beyond, proving more effective willing to have a go!,” Hamish said. Cambridgeshire than lone youth workers.” The team will share a house together This is for the following reasons: with all accommodation, food and living June 28 Regional Youth • A team of people each bringing their costs provided. Also team members will own unique gifts and approach offers receive a generous monthly allowance. Mass in Suffolk many different ways to share the Gospel Much of the team’s work in schools will For more details Message. These might include music, involve music, drama and IT, to www.catholiceastanglia.org drama, dance and IT. communicate the Gospel Message in a • A team made up of people age under way young people can relate to. 30 are likely to be more in touch with It is particularly suited to anyone who current youth culture. Young people wants to develop skills in these areas. or may relate to people closer to their own experience working with young people. age. But anyone is welcome to apply. • The presence of a team of young Could this be you, or do you know people who have chosen to join a someone who should apply? mission team is in itself a witness. For more information see • Spending time on a mission team www.catholiceastanglia.org/uk

Contact details Diocesan Youth Office, The White House, 21 Upgate, Poringland, Norwich, Norfolk NR14 7SH

Tel: (01508) 492202 Mobile: (0781) 2004934 Email: dys@east- angliadiocese.org.uk Leave a message if no answer. Page Six CATHOLIC EAST ANGLIA CATHOLIC EAST ANGLIA Page Seven The Rosary: Pondering with Mary by Fr Henry Whisenant In the Gospels, Mary doesn’t say much. A few words to the angel Gabriel, a hymn Before the Pontifical Mass in the Extraordinary form began Bishop Alan and the clergy taking of God’s praise to Elisabeth, a question to part processed to the Blessed Sacxrament Chapel for a period of reflection. At the beginning of the boy Christ in the Temple, a petition to the the Mass those taking part stood before the altar to pray, above. grown Christ at a wedding, a pithy command Pictured left are the congregation and the view they had of the liturgy. The procession making its way to the High Altar to the servants standing by. But we always have a sense that with Mary there is much more going on under the surface. Historic celebration for St John the Baptist Cathedral When the angel Gabriel announces her divine motherhood, we are told that Mary “considers in her mind what this greeting could mean”. Her intellect is alert and active, and trying to get a hold on the mystery of the angel’s Pontifical Mass for All Saints message. A Pontifical High Mass celebrated for the the organ. The majority of the servers came preached during the Roman Empire – but also Again, after the finding of Jesus in the Solemnity of All Saints in the Extraordinary from Cambridge. the universality of our faith: as one Body with Temple, and his surprising explanation of his Form in St John the Baptist Cathedral was In the choir were clergy both from the diocese one Spirit, the worshippers use a common actions, saying that he must be “about his hailed as an historic event. and further afield, including the Right Reverend liturgical language. Father’s business”, the Gospel tells us that It was the first time for several decades a Dom Cuthbert Brogan and the community of “The elaborate ritual and vestments show the “Mary pondered all these things in her bishop in England had celebrated such a Mass Farnborough Abbey, as well as Norbertines heavenly joy that we anticipate in the liturgy – heart”. in his cathedral. from St Philip’s Priory in Chelmsford. indeed, in heaven we will participate in the In both of these descriptions, we see that Bishop Alan was assisted by priests of the The Mass was attended by a congregation of great perichoresis, the elaborate and solemn Mary is a woman of deep interiority, diocese as ministers: Dean Fr David Paul and Fr more than 300, some with experience of this “dance” of the Holy Trinity, in the company of considering in her mind and pondering in her Denys Lloyd assisted as deacons at the throne, form of the Mass and others who came to all the saints! The readings were sung in Latin by those acting as deacons heart the mysteries that surround and show Frs Michael Collis and Henry Whisenant acted discover it. “Joyful could well be used as the word to forth the life of her Son. In the prayer of the as deacon and subdeacon at the altar, and Fr “Many remarked on the beauty of the liturgy describe the atmosphere of this Mass that Rosary, we too do the same. Michael Johnstone was the subdeacon of the and the sense of prayer,” Fr Henry Whisenant Bishop Alan so graciously celebrated,” Fr In our Lady’s presence, like thoughtful cross. said. Henry said. children at her feet, we caste about in our The bishop was aided by his secretary, Fr “Those who came for the first time discovered In his homily Bishop Alan said the Mass was a Padraig Hawkins, and members of the Institute that some aspects in this form of the Mass differ celebration of a great feast and the followship of mind to understand the mysteries of Christ’s of Christ the King, including Canon Gilles from the Ordinary Form. faith. life and his mother’s: Joyful, Luminous, Guitard who was MC, and Canon Pierre “For example, the bishop does not face the “Today we celebrate all those who died in the Sorrowful and Glorious. Poullain who was assistant priest. people during the Eucharistic Prayer, but the faith of the Holy Spirit inspiring us and pointing In her company, we ponder these events in The Second MC was Richard Hawker. The same way as them, to show that he leads them in the way to one true faith. our hearts and interiorise them. music, which included Victoria’s polyphonic offering the sacrifice of the Son to God the “All are called by their baptism to be saints, The repetition of the “Hail Mary” in the Mass setting O Quam Gloriosum, was Father. called by Baptism into the fellowship of the Rosary is not the vain repetition of the performed by singers conducted by Christopher “The use of Latin emphasises the historicity of saints.” pagans that St Paul criticises, it is the Hodkinson and accompanied by Nigel Kerry on our faith – that Christ was revealed and By Fr Henry Whisenant and Patrick Byrne repetition of one who knocks at a door, seeking understanding. Some will ask: how do I pray the Rosary properly? In the words of the great apologist Peter Kreeft, the best way to learn how to pray is to pray. The best way to learn how to pray the Rosary is… to pray the Rosary! We need not give up because we get distracted, or because we don’t feel we pray it well. A mother prefers a child who addresses her distractedly to a child who never addresses her at all. The altar servers, above and below. Special kneeling rails were set out for receiving Holy Communion Perhaps if we are not used to praying the Rosary regularly, even a decade or two could be a good way to start. But if we are regular about it, then even if we are distracted, the considering in our minds and pondering in our hearts with Mary will slowly but surely orient us towards a treasure that the world cannot take away. “Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also”. New ways of understanding power of Christmas by Mgr Tony Rogers I once heard Christmas carols being played in a in the Lectionary at Christmas are any the less encountered before. John’s account, written later than the three But there is another wonderful way of large hospital in the middle of October, and while fresh or new, because God speaks to us in the here The gospels themselves bear witness to the other gospels (known as the Synoptics) has a proclaiming this. that’s pretty exceptional, it is true that many of us and now, not just in past memories. richness of the message. The events surrounding totally different presentation of Jesus coming into A text in the Roman Missal, taken from the are ‘carolled out’ by the time Christmas comes It’s not a matter of saying to ourselves ‘I’ve heard Jesus’ birth are only found in Matthew and Luke’s the world as ‘the Word made flesh.’ Roman Martyrology, and based on the scriptures, around. it all before’. account. The stress of Matthew and Luke is on the human can be sung at the beginning of Midnight Mass. The same is often true of ‘The Christmas story’ – The Word of God is not like a person telling us Mark sets the beginning of his gospel against the origins of Jesus (the genealogies), while John And a beautiful, but little known sequence for the readings we hear at Christingles, carol the same story over and over again. prophecy of Isaiah about the voice of the stresses his divinity, The beginning of his gospel Christmas (The Laetabundus) has these power- services and Nativity plays. Each time we listen, each time we read, it’s as if messenger crying in the wilderness to prepare a makes it clear that God took on human flesh. filled words: “And the Word of God Most High self- But that doesn’t mean that the readings assigned we come across something we’ve never way for the Lord. God became incarnate in Jesus. imprisoned doth lie in our body.” Page Eight CATHOLIC EAST ANGLIA Christmas 2014 Tribute to ‘charity man’ Derek Derek Mahoney was described at NEWS his funeral as one of the most charitable men in the diocese but from in many ways this appeared an understatement. He joined the church when he married Romana, his wife pictured with him right, and went on to take a very active part in its life. Among many achievements as a committed Catholic he helped found a youth club at St John the Baptist and worked tirelessly to Friends look for new ensure its success. But his greatest achievements came during the wars in the commitee officers Balkans in the 1990s. The Friends of the Cathedral are looking for a new While taking out aid to Bosnia chairman and secretary after Brian Lewis and Pat he made friends with an Walter resigned at the annual general meeting. American nun Sr Muriel in Brian said he had been in the role for 12 years and Medjugorje and became her Pat much longer. lifeline for help for local people in Brian told the meeting: “We both thought it was villages ravaged by war. time for a change and this was a good opportunity Sr Muriel looked after many Baptist Cathedral a letter of Advertisements with a new bishop and a new dean to lead the friends Christian and Muslim people, gratitude and tribute to Derek was forward to a stimulating future.” mainly the elderly who lived alone read out. He invited members to think about filling these and were isolated. At home in Norwich his positions and discuss it with him later. Derek collected aid and money charitable works continued. He Brian Dowler was willing to continue as treasurer for a number of years and helped will be missed by many people in and as all the other committee members agreed to bring comfort to them. the parish and further afield. serve for a further term and they were duly elected. When Sr Muriel needed a car For many years Derek would Brian said the proposed new streamlined because her own had come to the collect house-bound parishioners constitution had been circulated with the AGM notice. end of its useful life, Derek and bring them to daily Mass and It would enable the organisation to become “more fit brought her a Volvo estate. a natter with friends at the for purpose” in a new century, he said. He collected end of season seeds Cathedral. No written comments or objections had been from the horticultural producers This was part of the life of a received and there were none from the floor. and took them out to Bosnia so great charitable man. It was proposed by Ellen Pitt and seconded by families could grow vegetables in At the time of writing Romana Michael Harben that it should be adopted and agreed the spring and survive. was seriously ill and now lives in unanimously. At his funeral at St John the a care home. A motion to increase the subscription for a waged adult to £20 and concessionary subscriptions be raised “pro rata” was also carried unanimously. Day of perpetual Rosary Dean Fr David Paul said that St John’s was not only a real gem because of its architecture which made it a tourist “must” but also a liturgical wonder – a place built for the worship of God. The “cathedra”, the Bishop’s chair and the associated furniture were now the outstanding items needed to complete the re-ordering of the Sanctuary initiated by Bishop Michael and faithfully carried out by Fr James, the previous Dean. He suggested that this might be the next project to be considered by the Friends. Catenian celebration

The Cathedral of St John the Baptist held a day of perpetual Holy Rosary on the last day of October the month is traditionally dedicated to the prayer and the Cathedral, like so many other parishes throughout the diocese, the pryer was recited each day. “To mark the end of the month of the Holy Rosary many families signed up to a rota which meant it was prayed constantly throughout the day at the Altar of Our Lady of Walsingham,” Fr Michael Collis said. Diocesan clergy with members of Norwich Catenian “The day ended with the procession around the Cathedral (pictured Association pictured at the Park Farm, Hethersett. The above) carrying the statue of Our Lady of Walsingham and then widows of deceased Catenians are also invited to this Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament was given. event hosted by the circle president who this year is “Confident in Our Lady’s prayers we know this day brought many Philip Hoy pictured surrounded by the clergy. graces to the parish and to the diocese,” he said.

Thanks to everyone who sends in material Send material to: but please give documents a descriptive Patrick Byrne name. The Editor, Catholic East Anglia, The newspaper is now on the web and can The White House, 21 Upgate, Poringland, be accessed from the diocesan site. But Norfolk NR14 7SH. please remember when sending Tel: 01603 627409 and email: photographs of children to make parents [email protected] aware they may be used in the newspaper Deadlines: Catholic East Anglia is bi- and on the website. monthly and printed early in the month. If you would like us to identify a child by Material must arrive by 25 January for name, written parental permission must be the MARCH 2015 issue. obtained for this. Christmas 2014 CATHOLIC EAST ANGLIA Page Nine

NewBishop Alan seafarers’ has opened a new the chaplaincyport chaplain and seafarers’ centre at King’s Lynn volunteers as well port initiated by seafarer communicate with friends and charity Apostleship of the Sea families after months at sea. (AoS) and largely funded by the Bob Jones, chairman of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board. MNWB said: “With ships The facility offers visiting usually docking for no more seafarers a dedicated space to than 24 hours, crews are often relax and communicate with unable to leave the port. This Sr Marian is the new chaplain at King’s Lynn port their families back home. facility will provide much Sr Marian Davey, AoS Port needed respite and act as a base Mass for deceased brothers Chaplain at King’s Lynn, said: for AoS teams.” “This is a big first. Up till now, It will also help sailors attend crew had to go into town to buy church services and pray. top-up cards to be able to Alastair McFarlane, Port contact home. They have free Manager East Anglia, said: use of Wi-Fi and internet at the “Seafarers spend a lot of time on centre funded by AoS.” board their ships and with this The centre will be a place service we can offer them a Mass was celebrated by Bishop Alan for the deceased where seafarers can chat with home away from home.” brothers of the Order of Knights of St Columba province 27. CWL in Peterborough mark 60th The Peterborough Section of the Sikh boy who Catholic Women’s League recently celebrated its Diamond Jubilee with became priest a Thanksgiving Mass at St Peter and Fr John Doman, former parish priest at All Souls Church. St Charles Borromeo in Wisbech 2005- It was co-celebrated by Fr Waldi 2011 died in September at Ratcliffe in Smialek and Fr Damian Karmarz Leicestershire. who paid tribute to the work which Sean Finlay from the parish paid section members undertake within tribute and said: “The Irish missionary the parish and the community. priests in Tanzania, were not exactly Guests included branch president thrilled when a young boy scout, from a Teresa Wiseman, Alison Love - devout Sikh family, declared that he previous branch president and wished to become a Christian and a section members from Cambridge, Catholic priest. Lowestoft and Wymondham. “The fathers feared a backlash from his religious community. Harjit Singh, at his baptism he took the names John, North Walsham mark Cambodian feast Mary, Joseph Doman, displaying the The Cambodian feast of Pchum Ben characteristic can do attitude.” or the celebration of ancestors was He was sent to England to one of the marked by the North Walsham Rosminian houses (Institute of Charity) parish on 26 September. to test his call. The local Archbishop “Fr Mark Hackeson, pictured right, Cyril Cowderoy told him to go away and presided at the parish Mass and think carefully about what he was demonstrated his impressive asking but he was not to be deterred and command of the Khmer language eventually began studying at Derryswood near Guildford. as people from across the diocese “Multitasking was no bother to John, gathered in remembrance of those so in addition to study he undertook to who have died but are still very renovate the plumbing in the much with us in the peace of community house and replaced many of Christ,” Katie Maidment said. the large steel windows,” Sean said. John was ordained in 1982 and following a spell as assistant priest at St Couples learn of richer life Peter’s parish in Cardiff and a short Two couples from the Diocese East in private. time at the headquarters of the Institute Anglia headed to London last month to “It was this opportunity for dedicated in Rome, he was dispatched to Southern take part in SmartLoving, a worldwide time out of busy lives which was most India where he helped to setup a marriage enrichment programme appreciated.” thriving outpost of the Rosminians. offered by the Diocese of Westminster. The seminar had offered couples “the “A protégés, Fr Binu, chaplain at Run by couples for couples, the chance to work through issues which Loughborough University lovingly seminar covered issues such as cause recurring problems in looked after him during his final expectations, forgiveness, relationships”. illness,” Sean said. communication and sexuality, in an Three priests were available for He will be remembered for seeing the accessible and positive way. confession on Saturday evening, after needs of the most marginalised, both The two couples, one from Norwich which a vigil Mass was celebrated by local and the newly arrived migrants and the other from Ipswich, said it was Bishop Nicholas Hudson, who spoke from Eastern Europe and even took a a very worthwhile experience. words of great encouragement and homeless man into his presbytery. Juliet Belderbos from Norwich warmth. “With the assistance of the then East attended with her husband Stephen Both couples agreed that choosing to of England Development Agency he and said it was grounded in Catholic attend the weekend was a big secured funding to set up the Rosmini teaching, the talks were illustrated by commitment, not least for those who Centre which has become a busy personal anecdotes offering funny and need to arrange childcare. thriving social hub and yet another courageously honest examples of the But it is a worthwhile investment, concrete reminder of this self-effacing ups and downs of real marriages. offering formation, guidance and, man’s energy and enthusiasm,” he said. “It did not feel as though saints were above all, the opportunity for couples to He contracted cancer and despite a lecturing on impossibly high ideals, devote time to nurturing their short remission he died surrounded by rather that these were regular people marriage. three members of his Sikh family, three trying to live – and help others to live – SmartLoving is run by the Diocese of of his community and three friends authentic love and the joy of true Westminster’s Office of Marriage and from his Wisbech parish. Christian marriage. Family Life. More information on Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis. “Plenty of time was given for couples www.smartloving.org and by emailing (May his dear soul rest on the right hand to work through the material together [email protected] of God. - Sean Finlay Page Ten CATHOLIC EAST ANGLIA Christmas 2014

Diocese in lead part in Doctor in St Teresa celebrations Celebrations are under way to mark the slavery plea 500th anniversary of the birth of St Teresa Rev Dr Inderjit Bhogal of Avila and the Diocese of East Anglia is recently addressed a playing a leading part. meeting of the Wisbech The diocese has a major Carmelite Interfaith Forum. Mionastery at Quidenham in Norfolk. The meeting at Trinity Pilgrim walkers taking a well-earned break by the sea on their journey across the combined parishes Bishop Alan will celebrate Mass there at Methodist Church in 11.30am on 28 March, the birthday of St Wisbech was attended by Teresa, followed by a buffet lunch. For 25 people. more details please contact Walk marks joint anniversary In his address “Our [email protected] To mark the sixth anniversary of the merging The final stage went again onto the cliff path peace, our world” Dr An exhibition to mark the 500th of the parishes of Sheringham and Cromer and then to climb Beeston Bump where the Bhogal said he had long anniversary is coming to St John the Bishop Alan celebrated on the Feast of Our party could enjoy a fine view of the whole of the wanted to visit Wisbech Baptist Cathedral from 7-22 March before Lady of Walsingham at St Joseph’s. parish area of Cromer and Sheringham. because of the work of it goes to the monastery on 27 March until A small group of parishioners (and three Deacon Andrew led a short prayer for the Thomas Clarkson to the 7 April. parish dogs!), joined Deacon Andrew Neate to parish community and its priest. abolition of slavery. Later in the year it is also going to walk from Cromer to Sheringham. The group finally walked down into Earlier in the evening Walsingham where there will also be a Starting from Our Lady of Refuge in Cromer Sheringham to enjoy a well earned cup of tea at he had gone to view the Carmelite Family Pilgrimage on 11 July. the group walked on the cliff path down onto St Joseph’s. Clarkson memorial and At the request of the Spanish the Cromer promenade then along the beach to Those that took part enjoyed the experience paid his respects to the Ambassador, Cardinal West Runton for lunch. and felt this was a good sign of Parish sharing. man whom he described will celebrate Mass in honour of St Teresa as a giant in breaking the in Westminster Cathedral on 9 May. chains of slavery. Jointly hosted by the sisters of the Violet’s biker thrill Dr Bhogal said slavery Quidenham Monastery and the local When Violet Butcher, pictured left, of was still very much alive Discalced Secular (OCDS) groups the first St George’s in Norwich, gave up her in our society as sex and of three afternoons of talks and reflections moped in her 80s she missed the people trafficking. on different aspects of Saint Teresa will be thrill and had always wanted to ride “It is a scourge and a held on 16 May. pillion on a Honda Goldwing. blight on our society and The focus of this afternoon is her For her 90th birthday the parish we need a present day influence on the lives of the sisters and Leisure Group arranged it for her. Clarkson to shatter the group members. The afternoon will Despite one trip being rained off chains again.” include refreshments and time for she was taken to Goldwing Owners Sean Finlay, from the discussion, and will end with Sung Club of GB“Wing Ding” rally at Wisbech parish’ said it Vespers. To register for this free event Banham Zoo where she was given a was a very interesting please email Sr Shelagh. number of rides round their circuit. meeting. Christmas 2014 CATHOLIC EAST ANGLIA Page Eleven LIFE TO BE ADMIRED: Leonard Cheshire

“Leonard Cheshire!”Model At the end Christian of World War who lived and died in the Dioceseanother of crossEast awaited Anglia him: he developed Motor Two – and right up until his death - his name Neurone Disease. Becoming increasingly evoked an immediate response. It was a immobile, he retired from administration, and household name: a name that meant courage, devoted his time to deepening his relationship duty, service, compassion, and Love. With passing with Christ. Finding it hard to pray, he focused time it has receded into soft focus. It is time to his spirit on each of the 300+ Cheshire Homes in turn, offering his intentions and suffering in sharpen that focus, and remind ourselves why union with the disabilities borne by those homes’ Leonard Cheshire – name and person - was so residents. His life as it neared its end, recognisable. increasingly showed how grace building on nature leads to holiness.

In the 1930s the 18-year old Leonard went to He died on July 31st 1992 and was buried where Oxford with the vague idea of becoming a lawyer. he had lived, at Cavendish in Suffolk. Leonard Rather than studies, however, his time revolved Cheshire once said that “A man of prayer is the man whose work becomes his prayer”. around enjoying life in a frivolous and Was he perhaps speaking of himself? undisciplined way. This included learning to fly - for fun not for service - for he foresaw “ a great His name, his Christian charity, his holiness, must not and glorious career in which adventure and wealth His work was so valued it has continued today be forgotten. Leonard Cheshire, pray for us! were to be the principal ingredients”. Simultaneously he began developing schemes to FR MICHAEL JOHNSTONE help ex-servicemen, housing them on estates Almost immediately after Finals in 1939, war was where they worked on the land. To this end he declared, and Leonard was called up into RAF acquired Le Court, a 25 bedroomed property in Bomber Command. Within months a new man Hampshire, and just as the scheme seemed about was born: a man of foresight, leadership, to collapse, an ex-soldier dying of cancer, landed determination and courage. almost literally in Leonard’s arms. Without a second thought he took in Arthur Dykes, caring for him, washing, cleaning and feeding him.

It happened that Arthur was a Catholic. Fortuitously, as he neared death, Leonard was told that a priest should be called. He was deeply moved by the simplicity and prayerfulness of the administration of the Sacraments. This experience of the in action inspired him, and, finding in her the Authority he sought, he entered the Church on Christmas Eve 1948. From that moment his life was lived with Jesus his focus, the Sacraments his strength, prayer his constant companion: his motivation always to ‘Love God and love his Neighbour’.

Arthur Dykes was followed by more ex-soldiers, and others for whom the incipient NHS had no place. Leonard turned away no-one, looking after Leonard Cheshire all, feeding and nursing them when there were no other helpers. His restless energy led him O God our loving Father, we commend to You impetuously to establish more homes - in England your faithful son Leonard Cheshire. first, and then abroad. In very few years there As a young man he was feted as an RAF hero were 80 in the UK and over 250 worldwide. In time of conflict and danger By 1943 he was Squadron Leader of the renowned he provided forthright leadership “Dambuster” Squadron 617. With great skill he But unremitting work led to Leonard’s first cross: to those under his command, developed the technique of low-level flying to he contracted TB himself, being hospitalised for graciously showing compassion mark targets for accurate bombing. He won the two years. Enforced idleness increased his to the weak and fearful. DFC, and then three DSOs - and 1944 the Victoria intense spirituality through hours of silent Cross, not for a single act of bravery but for prayer, focusing on the image of Jesus‘ Holy Face, In time of peace gave himself wholly completing 100 sorties with great personal as seen on the Holy Shroud of Turin. Soon after to those in need of respect and service courage. He was the most decorated airman in the recovering he married Sue Ryder, herself the RAF. Unsurprisingly, he was selected as the founder of a Charitable Foundation, arising out of Father and lover of all, grant that through British witness when the Atom Bomb was her work for refugees during and after the war. his prayers Your desire for all dropped on Nagasaki. Consequently, with the birth of two children, he to be united in your Son may be fulfilled; had a family of his own. and that all Christians may follow It was said of him that there “was an almost He cared deeply about people and their lives Leonard Cheshire’s example mystical air about him …. without affectation or in loving service to their neighbour. pretension”. But with the cessation of hostilities what was he to do? He himself said “The only We make this prayer through thing I am trained for is to kill”. our Lord Jesus Christ your Son, who lives and reigns with you Hitherto, Leonard had been only a nominal in the unity of the Holy Spirit, Christian, with an unformed view of the one God, for ever and ever. Amen. Almighty. A chance discussion in a Nightclub convinced him of an intimate God who influences Leonard Cheshire, pray for me! each human being by living in him. The Holy May your prayers grant me the grace of Spirit began working in Leonard to spiritualise the natural strengths he had developed in ……………………………………… Amen wartime. His energy immediately turned to Please acknowledge any favours received to: exploring Christianity, trying to find a Church in “Leonard Cheshire”, c/o The White House, 21 which Truth, Unity and Authority were Upgate, Poringland, Norfolk NR14 7SH dominant. Page Twelve CATHOLIC EAST ANGLIA BUILDING BRIDGES Please help Tunes for Peace 2014 tour of the Holy Land and was entertained to a Your support is needed to continue the popular concert by a number of the students. Tunes for Peace project, Fr Paul Maddison says, and he explains why. While it is true that music alone will not solve the problems of the Palestinian people, it will at least serve Music is a unique language that has the ability to unite communities in need, giving some students a chance to people from different cultures and tongues, bringing express themselves artistically, and positively affect them together to create an environment where all how they view their role in society. Furthermore, peoples from different nationalities, beliefs, and ethnic music study here can inspire and provide the backgrounds work together in harmony. foundation for future musical careers.

Thus, music can be a tool to build bridges between In addition the Rapprochement Centre has been able to people and create rapprochement, not only among form its own musical group which acts as an people from different nationalities, but also people ambassador for peace, performing in different regions within the same nationality from different religions or of the world, reaching a wider audience to make the cultural practices. voice of peace heard in a new and unique way.

In the Palestinian context, building a musical group in The programmes which the Rapprochement Centre a local town where Christians and Muslims live Bishop Alan welcomed by the musicians during his visit provides will create new means of expression for together, creates a great opportunity for them form a Music is not generally offered as a subject in the state Palestinian youth, lead children upward from violent single unit, where they share their skills and school system. Therefore, this project serves as a great experiences, and establish the potential for positive experiences, all of which enriches the local spirit. It is support centre for those students, and will also change in an evolving society. this idea that supports our goal of building local complement the goals of the Rapprochement Centre to bridges between the Palestinian people and the give Palestinian students an opportunity to develop If you can help support this wonderful project; any international community as well. their musical knowledge and skill. donation, however small, can be sent to Pilgrimage People, Stapleford Granary, Bury Road, Stapleford, Moreover, this musical experience allows students to The situation in Palestine is very unstable on social, Cambridge CB22 5BP. release their emotions and express themselves economic and political levels, which negatively Thank you for giving these young people such a creatively. Through campaigns that compose strong impacts on the Palestinian people, and wonderful opportunity. FR PAUL MADDISON music and dynamic lyrics, they also relate to and unite particularly the youth, who shape the people in the common goals of peace and justice. future. They will directly affect and participate in the building of their society, Such is the project “Tunes for Peace” organised by the currently fragmented by the ongoing Palestinian Society for Rapprochement based in Beit occupation. Sahour, the Shepherd’s Fields. Here over 70 young people learn and play together in a spirit of mutual In 2013-2014, a UK-based Charity, Pilgrimage respect and hope, underpinned by the language of People made a significant contribution to music and performance. the project which helped Tunes for Peace project to introduce more instruments to Given the power of music to further these initiatives, the students which allowed us to serve Tunes for Peace aims to serve the community more beneficiaries. generating harmony in both music and cultural relations. It is a fact that there are many young Pilgrimage People traces its roots to May Palestinians in Beit Sahour who wish to learn music 2000 and a pilgrimage to the Holy Land and have the skills, but cannot afford to pay for the organised by Fr Paul Maddison, a Catholic proper equipment nor the expensive fees to attend a Priest from the Diocese of East Anglia. music school. Bishop Alan visited the project during his Tunes for Peace inspires Palastinian musicians to play their own music

Produced by the Diocese of East Anglia Published by CathCom Limited of Haverhill May 2014