FREE www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk

The Official Newspaper to Inside this month: the Diocese of Lancaster p5 St Winefride’s Outdoor Mass p6 Prisons Week 2010 - Be with me Issue 224 + November 2010 p15 Pope Fest - Glastonbury with God!

hat a day, what memories. St Joseph’s primary school © Mazur/www.thepapalvisit.org.uk WWesham joined children from Catholic schools from Lancaster and all over the country at St Mary’s College, Twickenham for truly a day to remember!

The event theme was “I have come so that they may have life and have it to the full”. The day was certainly a full one and was a celebration of living life to the full in so many ways.

We left school at 2.00am and arrived in London at about 7.45am. By 8.00am we were through security and onto the sports field. Everyone received a ‘goody bag’ with such diverse items as a prayer card, order of service and a banana! (Is there a scriptural reference I’ve missed here?). The children were so excited, especially when we found that Lancaster Diocese were right at the front and to the left of the stage. For over an hour and a half the Master of Ceremonies - Andy Akinwolere from Blue Peter - A kept us entertained and informed until the moment arrived. Dayto We saw His Holiness arrive, visit the chapel for prayers and then start his entrance in the famous pope mobile. We sang and

shouted and cheered as he went past and the children were certain he had waved just at them! Some of the responses from

my four excited children were: Remember! “It was just so full of joy, I hope that one day in the future my own child might have the opportunity to do what I have done today” (Ellie), “Meeting the Pope was a memorable thing, I’m so very “ lucky because not everyone has had that opportunity” (Jack), ““When the Pope looked at me it made me feel really special as if he had really warmed to me” (Tom),

Everyone was so happy and I thought about how my mum had met Pope John Paul II when he came to and now it was my turn” (Ffion). It is really worth looking at the message the Pope gave to us that I have“ come day. You can find it on www.thepapalvisit.org. It speaks of how we all have the chance to become saints and the vital role that our catholic schools have in enabling this to happen. It certainly so that they has made me reflect anew on our mission and vision here at St Joseph’s, Wesham. may have life

Seven and a half hours after Pope Benedict left and have the arena we were back in Wesham. Tired, hungry, travel-sick (that was me) but filled it to the full. with a deep satisfaction and a sense of purpose that he really had come ‘so that they may have life and have it to the full’. (Margaret Wright Head Teacher, St Joseph’s Wesham) ” 2 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + November 2010 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk

EDITORIAL ope Benedict’s state visit to the UK in September has During those four days we saw a pastor who possesses a heart Pbeen judged a resounding success by both the British gov- burning with love, who reminded us of something we all know, ernment and the Holy See. As George Carey, the former Arch- but often forget – that each one of us has a vocation to love. bishop of Canterbury, expressed it, ‘He came, he saw, he conquered ’. It’s easy enough to say, but what does it mean in practice if it is to be more than a platitude? What is it that drew hundreds of thousands onto the streets of Edinburgh and London to catch a glimpse of the Holy Father? , the Archbishop of Westminster, has provided us In a wo rd, holiness. From the moment Pope Benedict walked with the first sketch of a response to the Holy Father’s example of down the steps of the Alitalia plane, Shepherd One, people saw love. In his Pastoral Letter immediately after the pope’s visit he the evident holiness of the successor of St Peter on their TV wrote: screens and were irresistibly drawn to him.

Wh at is holiness? We witness best to the splendour of the truth Simply put, it is the love of God, revealed in Jesus Christ, radiant ‘ of our faith when we follow the example given Contact us in the words and actions of his followers. More than anything, it was the love, the caritas, of Pope Benedict that won over so many by Pope Benedict. In speaking of our faith he The Catholic Voice of Lancaster of our fellow citizens. It is not by chance that the Holy Father’s is published on the last Sunday of the first encyclical, Deus Caritas est, was on love. The first encyclical was always so gentle and courteous, so month previous to publication date. in the history of the Church on the subject of love. sensitive to the achievements and anxieties of his listeners, so clear and reasoned in The Catholic Voice of Lancaster is As the Catechism of the Catholic Churchexpresses it: published by its owners. The Trustees presenting difficult points, so humble and of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charity [caritas] is the soul of the holiness to which all are called: open-hearted. We must strive for these same Lancaster, a registered charity, it “g overns, shapes, and perfects all the means of sanctification”. (No. 234331), and is wholly independent qualities when speaking about our faith, in of and separate from any previous ‘If the Church was a body composed of different members, it witnessing to its truth. newspaper published by or on behalf couldn't lack the noblest of all; it must have a Heart, and a Heart of the diocese. BURNING WITH LOVE. And I realised that this love alone was the true motive fo rce which enabled the other members of the EDITOR: Church to act; if it ceased to function, the Apostles would fo rget Archbishop Nichols went on to say’ that Pope Benedict has spelt Edwina Gillett to preach the gospel, the Martyrs would refuse to shed their out our mission as Catholics in the UK. We are to be witnesses to 01253 736630 / 07969 967268 blood. LOVE, IN FACT, IS THE VOCATION WHICH INCLUDES ALL ‘the beauty of holiness, to the splendour of the truth and to the joy [email protected] OTHERS; IT'S A UNIVERSE OF ITS OWN, COMPRISING ALL TIME and freedom born of a living relationship with Christ.’ www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk AND SPACE - IT'S ETERNAL’. (St Thérèse of Lisieux) (CCC 826) The Catholic Voice of Lancaster is convinced that if we are to be ADVERTISING: faithful to Pope Benedict’s vision of our mission as Catholics in Nick Layton / CathCom Ltd. the UK each one of us must answer the following questions: 020 7112 6710 [email protected] www.cathcom.org Do I seek to be holy, by living the virtues of faith, hope and love? DESIGN & LAYOUT: Rob Hotchkiss / Hot Creative Do I uphold the truth of the Catholic Faith, [email protected] www.hot-creative.co.uk set out in the Catechism of the Catholic Church? PUBLISHED BY: CathCom Ltd. 2/4 Church Street, Steeple Bumpstead, Do I have a living relationship with Christ, Haverhill, CB9 7DG through prayer and the sacraments? 0870 228 4266 www.cathcom.org Articles to: [email protected] Letters to: [email protected] VoiceXtra: [email protected] © Mazur/www.thepapalvisit.org.uk What is Holiness? Postal Address: BY THE WAY… ……...... FAO Edwina Gillett 99 Commonside, Ansdell, Lytham St. Annes FY8 4DJ Keep our Service Personnel in your Prayers If possible, please send articles for publication on CD or by email. Otherwise hey come to us – civilians, full of excitement tinged with remember on November 11th each year. please type double spacing or write very Tsome trepidation but above all with a zest for life. The They have the same generosity, the same clearly. Last date for copy is the LAST First Infantry Training Battalion in Catterick trains soldiers courage in the face of danger and the DAY of the month prior to publication. for the infantry of the line. They are surprised to find that same heroic nature. In the modern army Photographs will be returned if you there are two five o’clocks in a day and they are on their feet the circumstances are different but the remember to put your name and address for both of them. Their parents see them again after five essence is the same. It is always a great joy on the back of each and enclose suitable weeks and are amazed at the transformation. Busy, busy, to see the “old and bold” come back – stamped and self-addressed packaging. busy...not a minute to spare. So much to do and so little time those who have served and retired – and to get it all done. to see them with the young soldiers of today – they are exactly the same. After six months they have changed from being a civilian to being a soldier. They go off to their battalion like somebody who Please remember our Service Personnel, has passed his driving test – ready now to learn from experience. living and dead, in your prayers. These young soldiers are not different from the people we (Father Tom Butler) www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk November 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 3 Schools Schools Schools SchoolsScShcoholos ols Playing the ScShSchoocoolhs lsools lackpool Youth Concert Band's first Bmajor European turned out to be a great success. Four students and a member of staff from St Mary's Catholic College, Blackpool formed part of the band on the trip to Germany in July.

They visited the house where Beethoven was born in Bonn, enjoyed a cruise along the River Rhine, visited the theme park Phantasialand and played four concerts for local dignitaries, including the Right Note Mayor of Bottrop.

(Lizzie Cavanagh, St Kentigern's, Blackpool) Blackpool Youth Concert Band Bishop visits Garstang School

ishop Michael Campbell OSA made a special visit to SS BMary Michael Primary School, Garstang and presided at an open air Mass for parishioners and children.

During the Mass Bishop Campbell dedicated the new outdoor prayer area, the schools latest phase of the open air facilities which also includes a willow tunnel, pond and wetland area, and outdoor stage for performances and shows.

The prayer area, which was planned and designed by children, is the centerpiece of the outdoor facilities, made on a traditional stone wall, and seating made from locally sourced timber, all installed by Myersough college students as part of their community support activities.

Head teacher Cathryn Wilkinson said, “We feel so privileged that the Bishop chose to visit our school and to dedicate our new prayer area, we are so lucky to have such a facility which is both eco-friendly in its design and functional as a place of worship and we are grateful to Myersough college for their support with this project”.

Bishop Michael complimented the school on their achievements saying, “The staff and children of SS Mary and Michael Catholic Primary School have made me so welcome during my visit, it has been a true pleasure to visit the school”. He added, “The children are so lucky to have such wonderful resources both indoors and outside to aid their education and spiritual development”. 4 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + November 2010 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk

Please check out www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk for: Details of an event in November for adult volunteers to provide the opportunity to explore and plan for National Being a Young Catholic Today Youth Sunday / Details of an Advent weekend for Young People Year 10 and above / Details of a Christmas Ceilidh

encouragement. Being amongst The Taizé thousands of other young Catholics has Strong Witnesses helped our young people realise they are not on their own and I welcome the t was a privilege to support and work On return in the early hours of Sunday opportunity given through this historic Factor Iwith the young people representing 19th September I had the privilege of event to once again encourage, parishes from around the Diocese to sharing with some of the young people strengthen and empower our young the Hyde Park event in London for the who explained a little about what this people in standing strong in their faith recent Papal Visit. experience had meant for them. Those and proclamation of it in their everyday I spoke to often find themselves in a lives. We can only be grateful to all those To explain how it felt to be part of a group minority in their school or parish setting involved and all those who stepped of thousands celebrating their faith, but this experience had given them a out – we are continually proud of the Rachel Turley, 18, Dudley sharing together and praising God is hard new sense of strength in their identity young people we meet and know that to put in to words. It is an experience I will as young Catholics and the content of they are strong witnesses in our society not forget and equally so, one I am sure the Hyde Park event, particularly had today. Thank you to all who continually the young people will not forget. The lack given them much to consider and support them and to those parishes of sleep, the commitment to the 36-hour consolidate their faith. The strength of who will listen and share the experience round-trip was all part of the adventure the testimonies that were shared with through the eyes of our youth. and experience. the crowds was something of great (Ruth Corless)

or the fifth year running, thirty young people from across Fthe diocese, spent the first weekend of September walking ello, I’m Rachel. I’m living and across the Lake District to join the diocesan pilgrimage at the Hworking at Castlerigg Manor shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in Cleator. for a year, which is a long way from Big Walk home as I am from Dudley near Setting off from Castlerigg in bright sunshine, the group climbed Birmingham. My faith is such an through Honister Pass, over the top of Haystacks and down into important part of my life. It has Ennerdale. We stopped off at different points to catch our breath, helped guide me through decisions enjoy the silence and to pray a decade of the rosary together and my relationship with God has under the shadow of our pilgrimage cross. For many, Haystacks Big Walk helped me to become the person was the first mountain that they had ever climbed and the views I am today. were spectacular.

As a young Catholic there are many One young person commented, ‘Seeing this beauty, it is obvious things that I struggle with, but there that God designed this beautiful place for a reason. I have been able have been some experiences to see God in the natural landscapes surrounding us. It was really throughout my faith journey that amazing to take full advantage of this great divine work’. have helped me through some of these struggles and come out with Dipping down into the valley and out of the wind, many braced a closer relationship with God and themselves for an invigorating swim in the river pools. The more understanding of what He following day we headed out of the valley, across some swamps wants for me. Bigger which all but swallowed up some of the pilgrims, and out to Cleator where we joined hundreds of others for an uplifting A big turning point in my life was celebration of Mass with the Bishop. One young person said, when I took a pilgrimage to Taizé in ‘I have never done a walk like this, and it was great to reach the France. If anyone was to ask me what Adventure finish. I have learnt through it that with the strength of God I can Taizé was like I could only give the climb any mountain in my life!’ same answer as I got before I sent: cold showers basic food, camping, a 19-hour coach journey, etc. I must astlerigg opened its doors wide admit, all these things are true, and Cto welcome the parish of Saint from an outside perspective this is all Augustine’s Carlisle on their parish it would be. But when you experience retreat day. it you are overwhelmed by this feeling of community and belonging. Parishoners of all ages from 4 to 84, St. Augustine’s spent a Spirit-filled day exploring and God is present in so many ways in experiencing what it meant to be part of a Taizé, and it was truly a turning point living parish community. It was a day filled in my life. The beauty is held in its with laughter, fun, reflection, creativity simplicity: prayer three times a day, and the wonder of active silence. Bible study, and meals. But it helped me to grow so much in my faith and The high point of the day was celebrating everyone who went was touched by Mass outside in the most ‘beautiful church’ how lovely it was to live there. And it – God's own creation. has now led me to where I am today. Parish Day at Castlerigg (Catherine Holland, St Augustine’s Parish, Carlisle) www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk November 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 5 DiAroundocDeseioDio thecceseeDisoceese 90 Years Old and Still Playing DioceseDioceseDiocese DiocDioecessee iss Mary Byrne, of the parish of Our MLady, Star of the Sea & St Michael, A surprise Workington , Cumbria, celebrated he visitor on Noughties 90th birthday on September 18th. Mary’s Amazingly, Mary is still the parish Birthday ! organist and to reach the organ has to Night climb an awkward spiral staircase whenever she plays. oly Family, Ingol. At the outbreak of World War II she started Hheld their annual playing when needed at both Our Lady & party, sometimes known St Michael’s & at St Mary’s Harrington, as the ‘Noughties’ party recently. Workington. At the end of the war Mary became organist at St Mary’s where she Sixteen members of the parish have continued until 1957. Following this she birthdays this year with a zero in them, again helped out in both parishes until, in including Fr Peter Dolan parish priest, who 1988, she took over as organist at Our Photo’ 90-year-old Babs Marshall, is 80. A 90th birthday was celebrated four Lady & St Michael’s where she is still 10-year-old Helen Potts with Fr Peter Dolan 80ths, five 70ths, two 40ths, two 30ths, going strong. wearing their hats. one 20th and one 10th birthday. (Ann Miller)

In total Mary has given 70 years service to Catholic Liturgy in the town of Workington where she has lived for all of her life. This devoted service was recognised a few years ago when she 90th Birthday! received the Bene Merenti medal. Morecambe Bay St Winefride’s Outdoor Mass

he annual outdoor Mass in honour of TBlessed Edward Bamber held at St.Winefride’s house on Thursday Walk for Right to Life 15th July 2010, took place in blustery conditions, with the rain arriving shortly afterwards. or the first time in 5 years for this crucified Lord. I regret very much I cannot Bishop Michael was the principal Fannual walk the weather was be with you this year. You will be in my celebrant, assisted by priests from the wonderful. Mgr. Slattery, Fr. Bob Horn, prayers. With respect and love to you all. wider Blackpool area, resident priests, Fr. Jonathon Cotton and Fr. Alan Cooke Patrick” and Deacons. joined a total group of 79 walkers. Fr. Alan Cooke, an Anglican Vicar from The Mass attracted well over 100 people Mgr. Slattery read out the message from Manchester read out a message from the drawn from the local parishes and it was Archbishop Patrick Kelly: “Once before Anglican Suffragan Bishop of Lancaster good to welcome many familiar faces as on these walks we held not only the The Rt. Rev. Geoffrey Seagrave Pearson: well as new ones. The occasion was once immediate concerns of those who make “Thank you for being society's conscience. again a wonderful uplifting celebration. this walk but others too in our thoughts As you walk across Morecambe Bay there is a and prayers; I mean the year when the real sense that you are turning the tide. You The Mass was followed by refreshments Chinese Cockle Pickers had died in this ever are reminding us that life is a gift from God. which gave people plenty of time to changing Bay. This year, since to be ‘For it was you who formed my inward parts; mingle, and renew acquaintances. Pro-Life is to accept seamless robe, we will you knit me together in my mother's womb. I hold in our passage through the water the praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully The committee of “The Friends of St. peoples of Pakistan. Love is a fountain that made.’ (Psalm 139). Once again you are Winefride’s” would like to thank most never runs dry because it is the Holy Spirit underlining the sacred value of life. May that sincerely all who supported the event. flowing from the pierced side of our message be heard far and wide.”

The Rosaria For the loveliest rosaries … • Christening • First Communion • Confirmation • Weddings • Rosary Bracelets • Gentlemen’s Rosaries • Coconut & Olive Wood • IRISH MADE ROSARIES • Connemara Marble • Birthstone • Gemstone • Silver & Swarovski Crystal • We have an exquisite range of rosaries that can make a distinctive Christmas gift for someone special - visit us at ww.therosaria.com Specially for readers of the The Lancaster Voice there is a 10% Christmas discount. Don’t forget to include the promotional code Cliff Small Funeral Service for 10% discount at the checkout too! Simpy quote this But Hurry! promotional code when you make your order This offer is only available 10% and you will receive until 18th December 2010, Independent Family firm Discount your discount so visit The Rosaria and A1B2C3D4 order your gifts today! For Personal, Caring Attention Shop online at Private Chapels, Pre-paid Funerals Plans

www.therosaria.com 20 Brookhouse Rd, Caton LA2 9QT Tel: (01524) 770886 Email: [email protected] 33 Claremont Rd, Morecambe LA4 4HL Tel: (01524) 424072 Telephone: 01253 826484 91 Main Rd, Bolton-le-Sands LA5 8EQ Tel: (01524) 736166 3c Crescent East, Cleveleys FY5 3LJ toothpaste, pen,paper, towel etc. such asa wash-bag, toothbrush and out bag which contains basicessentials to provide such basicthingsasa welcome come outof prison with nothing.ACE tries donations of food andclothing. Many men The organisation isalways grateful for resettle back into thecommunity. to themby ACE inhelpingthemto grateful for thehelpandsupport given supporters. Many ex-offenders are and thegoodwillof volunteers and they are released. ACE rely ondonations B in thisArea Ex-Offenders ACE -Helping 6 Prisons Week 2010- TeCtoi oc fLnatr Nvme 00 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster +November 2010 organisation helpsoffenders as ased inPreston, theACE through to thechaplaincy department. prison on01772675400andask to beput concert this year, thenplease contact the or perhapsattend theChristmas Carol have aparishgroup who would like to visit visit theprisonandjoinin worship. If you prison inKirkhaminvites church groups to with thecommunity, theresettlement As partof thepolicy of developing links on 01772561323. what they cancollect please contact ACE find outmore abouthow they canhelpor your church or schoolgroup would like to deliver food parcels to thoseinneed.If At Christmas timethecharity seeksto “You willbewithmeinParadise” the words of Jesus to thepenitent thief: and divisionseemeddominant, we hear the love of God.Inaplace where isolation world beingovercome by the wonder of we seeentwinedthehorror of abroken Prisons Week takes usto theCross where The GospelReading for theSunday in do to assist thoseaffected by prison. you asanindividualor asachurch can yourself whether there isonethingthat during Prisons Week, butalsoask organisations. Please pray eachday Christian denominationsandChristian care. Itconsists of representatives of offenders, prison staff andallthose who prisoners andtheir families, victims of ei aaie”Luke 23.42-43 me inParadise.” “Truly Itell you, today you willbewith you come into your kingdom.” Then Hesaid, Him. being with the callof Godandknow theblessing of bring thishope,thatallmay respond to affected by prisons,and for all whoseek to ‘Be withme’ person. Thechallenge of thethemeof brought hopeto anisolated andbroken P Amen. His Spirit,now day. andevery Christ inHisstrength and in walk humbly together with to actjustly, love mercy and Help usto forgive oneanother, of crime. others, especially the victims wounded by the actionsof Heal those whohave been all whocare. and friends, prisonstaff and prisoners andtheir families Support with your love fear andisolation that exist. in prison.Break the bondsof all people. We pray for those Lord, you offer freedom to The Prisons Week prayer: affected by prison for allthose A week of prayer and raiseawareness of theneedsof risons Week was formed to pray for is to pray and work for all “Jesus, remember mewhen Be with me He replied, , wordsthat contacts, booksandmore. prayers, worship resources, ideas,useful also findadditional materials including www.prisonsweek.org information, please visit our website at make adonationor to findoutmore For suggestions asto how you canhelp,to I strongly encourage Christians confined by law or by outcomes us allto connect with the Jesus that they are accompanied in Prisons Week once again and year’s Prisons Week willhelp committed to bringhelpand to think about,pray for, and of lawlessnessandfor those imprisonment willconfident act for allthose affected by As we focus our prayers on and that those undergoing presence andresources of prisons duringthis special prayer andcompassion by who waits for usinprison, the Lord andhisservants. I amdelighted to support those whofind their lives I hopeandpray that this care, we pray that God’s love, Moderator of theFree Churches Group week inNovember. Elizabeth AMatear (Commissioner), would bringhope. The Most Reverend Vincent Nichols, mercy andjustice Archbishop of Westminster Archbishop of Canterbury “ ” “ ” “ ” + Dr Rowan Williams, where you will

Be www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk November 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 7

Glory Days A Sign of Hope

Dear Editor Dear Editor

Does anyone remember the glory Fr Nikolay Savchenko, Rector of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad in London, has days of St Augustines in Preston? written an article full of hope for the future of Christianity. He talks of his upbringing in the 70s and 80s in Leningrad, and the difficulties in attending church:“...it took nearly There was a time when a 1000 45 minutes to reach the closest church which was functioning…all the rest had been closed seater church attracted 3,500 and transformed into warehouses or clubs..., it was…deemed illegal to bring children to church services...” worshipers every Sunday. Now the building has gone and so have the Since the fall of communism, all the churches are working again, new ones are being four resident priests while the built, “and if you're lucky you can even get into one on a Sunday.” He quotes some Your letters Sunday congregation of 100 meets statistics: “...in 1988, 18.6% of the population…were religious...In 1989 this had increased…to 20% and in 1993 it was 43%. By 2006 it had reached 72% and…has How to send us in the Junior School Hall. increased by at least 1% a year. That 1% equates to 1.2 million new Orthodox believers your letters: each and every year.” Write to: However when it comes to giving The Editor, to third world charities the parish “Sometimes, we read in newspapers that only 5% of people attend church services at 99, Commonside, is still a powerful force. Its latest Easter...Some people conclude…that Christianity is still not strong in Russia. However, 5% Ansdell, project is helping orphaned is the exact proportion of the population that could fill the churches completely. Nobody Lytham St. Annes, families in Zimbabwe through the has yet tried to calculate how many churches we would need…to house 15% to 20% of FY8 4DJ. agency of the Sisters of the Sacred the population.” Email to: Heart of Mary. This is not just the ordinary people. Both President Medvedev and Prime Minister [email protected] Putin have taken part in religious events. Recently, the President's wife, Svetlana So far, in about six weeks if the Medvedeva, has taken a significant lead and participated in 43 out of 110 religious money raised for that project is events. Catholic wives of Government Leaders in this country, take note! • Please keep your letters concise (max 300 words), added to the sum given for the Russia yesterday, the West today – by stealth rather than force: dwindling faith, • Include your full name and address flood relief in Pakistan the total is emptying schools, suppressed liturgies, churches as warehouses, restaurants and • Letters should not include any an amazing £1000. offices. After this painful desolation, may we too be able to say, one day: personal criticism or attacks • The editor reserves the right to: Never in the field of Charitable - amend or shorten letters or to Christ is risen indeed! refuse to publish them (no giving, has so much been raised correspondence to discuss decisions so quickly by so few. (Original article in The Journal of the Forces Pension Society, May 2010) taken will be entered into) - publish a response if deemed Joan Higginson Bob & Jane Latin appropriate Third World Group Morecambe 8 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + November 2010 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk Fr. Tad Pacholczyk Fr.Fr . TadTaFdr. TPa adPacholczyk cPahcoholclczzykk - MAKING SENSE OUT OF BIOETHICS Fr. TFar. Tdad PPaachcolchzyok lczyk

iscussions about the morality of to desperate patients and patient- Dstem cell research often focus on advocacy groups. Some scientists are the differences between adult stem cells happy to perpetuate the myth, too, and stem cells derived from embryos. believing that this kind of “master cell” The adult variety, such as those derived from the earliest stages of human life Spinning from bone marrow or umbilical cords, could help unlock some of the most are already providing an impressive primordial and tantalizing biological array of treatments and cures for sick powers mankind has ever seen — almost people, while the embryonic kind are God-like powers, leading to the “Tree not. Adult stem cells can be obtained of Life” itself. without crossing any moral boundaries, whereas embryonic stem cells cannot, As some researchers ambitiously seek to Stem Cell because they are obtained by destroying wrench control of those life-powers into young human beings who are still in their own hands, it should perhaps come their embryonic stages of growth. as no surprise when they yield to the seductive siren call of our day: “One life In spite of great progress in identifying can sometimes be taken for the benefit of ever more powerful adult stem cell another,” and “Good ends can sometimes sources, scientists still clamor for justify evil means.” Fairy Tales embryos. Even in the face of impressive new technologies for making “embryonic- like” stem cells without using embryos, the chorus of voices pushing for the sacrifice Human embryonic“ stem cells of embryos seems only to grow louder. Indeed, one of the most common have the capacity to morph questions I encounter when I give talks into virtually any kind of about stem cells is why scientists and tissue, leading many politicians are so intent on pursuing the destruction of human embryos when so scientists to believe they many other non-embryonic sources of could serve as a ‘universal stem cells are available that are already helping countless patients with serious patch’ for injured organs diseases. What is behind this incessant drumbeat to go after the human embryo?

One can sense a certain “logic of killing” In a way, then, embryonic” stem cells have that hovers in the wings of these become a great modern secular fairy-tale, discussions. If tiny human embryos were even a kind of surrogate for our yearning to be safeguarded and protected by law, for immortality. People are being told that this would constitute a threat, if not a Alzheimer’s can be addressed; Parkinson’s frontal assault, to legalized abortion- can be overcome; diabetes can be on-demand, which routinely allows us to defeated; and MS can be conquered. Who end the lives of older, almost-born knows? Perhaps we could extend our humans more than 3000 times every longevity, defeat aging, and live as if we day in the United States by surgical means were always young. Perhaps we could even and many more each day through defeat death itself through these powerful chemical means. This desire to sanction cells! Vanquishing death and achieving current immoral practices is certainly immortality through science — the one reason we see continuing pressure to reality-bending power of these myths and allow the destruction of human embryos fairy-tales should not be underestimated. for research. In the final analysis, the “planned Pope Benedict XVI, in a recent address, suppression of human beings” cannot be spoke of resisting “…those forms of allowed to continue to creep into the research that provide for the planned practice of modern science and medicine. suppression of human beings who already Our yearnings for various goods and exist, even if they have not yet been born. blessings, like healing and new medical Research, in such cases, irrespective of therapies, must always be tempered by efficacious therapeutic results, is not truly our duty to pursue responsible and at the service of humanity.” completely ethical science.

In our society, however, the hype Only by insisting on the use of upright surrounding the harvesting of human means to achieve good ends can we embryos as a way to cure nearly every steer clear of the Nazi-like drive to disease has taken on the form of a popular subjugate and destroy others in our mythology. A Washington Post article quest for desirable outcomes. Only then summarized it this way a few years ago: can science be a force for authentic healing and truly stand at the service of “‘To start with, people need a fairy tale,’ said humanity. Ronald D.G. Mckay, a stem cell researcher at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. ‘Maybe that’s unfair, Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned his but they need a story line that’s relatively doctorate in neuroscience from Yale and simple to understand.’ Human embryonic did post-doctoral work at Harvard. He is a priest of the diocese of stem cells have the capacity to morph into Fall River, MA, and virtually any kind of tissue, leading many serves as the Director scientists to believe they could serve as a of Education at The ‘universal patch’ for injured organs.” National Catholic Bioethics Center. See This idea, though still speculative, is www.ncbcenter.org straightforward and easy to sell, especially www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk November 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 9 Friends of the Cathedral:

Cathedral picture Join Us! by D. Picker

very year it takes thousands of most moving was from a child in Year 6: Epounds and lots of hard work to ‘Now the door is there I feel like I am part of maintain St Peter’s Cathedral. The the parish and the family of God.’ generous support of the Cathedral Friends helps to ensure that our Current projects for the Friends include Cathedral always looks its best for the restoration of the monument to the visitors from the Diocese and around Daltons of Thurnham in the Lady Chapel, the world. the commissioning of a new monument to the Lancaster Martyrs and an exciting (Above top) Canon Stephen Shield blessing the statue of The Friends of St Peter’s Cathedral was longer term campaign to redevelop the St Thérèse in the cloister garden. launched on Sunday 25 June 2006 with cathedral cloister. This project will (Above) Rt Hon. Ann Widdecombe, MP, Patron of the Holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Patrick eventually incorporate exhibition space, Cathedral Friends, 2006 - 2010. O’Donoghue now Bishop Emeritus with a a new large bookshop and tea rooms. reception and buffet lunch afterwards. (Below) Emeritus Bishop Patrick O’Donoghue with Rick Aside from the satisfaction gained from Wilson and Doreen Colgan at the Friends’ Launch The Cathedral Friends is a committed turning the projects mentioned above into group of people interested both in reality, the Friends of the Cathedral maintaining our beautiful Neo-Gothic function on another level as well. Friends cathedral and helping to develop its role are invited to special events held at the as an evangelizing force within the Cathedral several times a year, including diocese and throughout the region. Canon the annual Feast of the Dedication of the Stephen Shield, Dean of the Cathedral, Cathedral which falls early in October; sees the Friends organization as an this celebration includes Mass, usually invaluable help at the Cathedral. He says, presided over by the Bishop, lunch “St Peter’s Cathedral is the parish church for afterwards and Sung Vespers in the many of Lancaster’s Catholics, but it also evening. The Friends also have serves as the mother church for Catholics opportunities to attend lectures about the throughout our diocese. It is so important Cathedral and related topics and even to Cathedral that our cathedral remains welcoming and go on the occasional jaunt – such as the well maintained, and the projects that the trip to organ makers Henry Willis & Sons Friends have enabled us to undertake have in to visit the cathedral organ made a huge difference to life here. Visitors while it was undergoing restoration work. from near and far comment regularly about The next two scheduled events are an the beauty of the building and how well illustrated talk on the decorative looked after it is.” programme of the cathedral’s east end and a reception and information evening Over the past four years, the Friends on the plans to regenerate and transform organization has funded numerous the cathedral cloister. projects within the cathedral. In 2009, the generous support of the Friends made The Rt. Hon. Ann Widdecombe MP served possible the cleaning and restoration of as the first patron of the Friends of the a badly worn memorial to Dr Rigby, the Cathedral. Her support in establishing the local priest who oversaw the design and Friends has been invaluable. Sadly, now building of the Dalton Square Mission, that she has retired from Parliament, Ms Lancaster’s first purpose-built Widdecombe has asked to step down as post-medieval Catholic church. The patron of the Friends. The new patron will Friends also helped to realise the be announced shortly and the Cathedral St Thérèse garden in the cathedral clergy will host a ‘meet and greet’ cloister; this garden features a statue of reception for the Friends. the saint and serves both as a focus for her veneration as well as a reminder of the The Cathedral clergy and the Friends of visit of her relics in September of last year. St Peter’s Cathedral welcome new Donations from the Friends funded the members at any time. Friends can join renovation of the cathedral’s organ singly, as joint or family members or even loft following the completion of the for life. For more information, please refurbishment of the Victorian pipe organ; contact: now the various cathedral choirs and the diocesan choir are able to see properly The Secretary of the Friends and sit comfortably while providing the of St Peter’s Cathedral, liturgical music for Masses and services. Cathedral House, Balmoral Road, The Friends also provided the financing to Lancaster LA1 3BT. reopen the old door into the Cathedral School yard; this means that children from T: 01524 384820 the school, including the Cathedral E: [email protected] Choristers, can now enter the Cathedral directly from the School. Once the door Maintaining the Cathedral is an on-going was reopened, the positive feedback from and demanding task; our Cathedral can the school was tremendous. Perhaps the never have too many Friends! 10 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + November 2010 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk PaPpaal VipsiPtaapal VlisPi tsaVpail sViisitt PaPappPapalaall Viissitit Visit PPaapapl Viasit l Visit Prayer with Religious with Charism in Education

n order to arrive at St Mary’s IUniversity College, Twickenham by 8am we had to leave our monastery in Gloucestershire at 4.30am! We had a Sr. Mary Johanna, very good journey in the dark and Sr. Josephine Mary arrived at 7.20am. After clearing and Sr. Mary Bernard. security and having been given the correct colour wristband we were to wait with other members of religious orders until being allowed into the Chapel.

We did not have a long wait. As we were shown to our seats in the chapel the excitement began to build. The choir was rehearsing as the chapel quickly began to fill with members of the Catholic invoking of the Holy Spirit by singing ‘Veni where the Big Assembly for children was Education Service and representatives Sancte Spiritus’. It soon became apparent to be held. from all the other Education Agencies and that His Holiness and his entourage were Dioceses. We then had our own singing running late. At 10.20am Pope Benedict We were able to watch the Big Assembly All Saints practice and some indications of what to finally arrived and entered the chapel in from the refectory where refreshments Monday, November 1st do and not do were given. procession with the Secretary of State for were available. Again, the atmosphere was at 6.30pm Cathedral Church of Education, the cardinals, bishops, priests one of excitement, happiness and joy for St Peter, Lancaster At 9am Morning Prayer began and was and the rector of St Mary’s College. The our Holy Father was here with us. All Souls presided over by Dom Richard Yeo of atmosphere in the chapel was electric. Tuesday, November 2nd at 6.00pm Our Lady and St Michael, Workington Downside Abbey who is currently Abbot Sister Teresa began by greeting His As the time for us to leave the campus President of the English Benedictine Holiness and after the opening prayer and came we realised that Pope Benedict was Twenty-fourth Sunday after Pentecost November 7th at 3.00pm St Monica, Congregation. This consisted of a hymn, a scripture reading several intercessions still in the building so we joined the Marton, Blackpool three psalms and a scripture reading were made by members of religious orders. hundreds of pilgrims who lined the street Twenty-fifth Sunday after Pentecost followed by three short reflections on the outside. We got a glimpse of white robes November 14th at 12.00hrs St Pius X, Ormsgill, role of religious in education. After the Pope Benedict then gave a short address as his car drove by. Barrow-in-Furness November 14th at 3.00pm Lord’s Prayer and the Blessing we ended in which he expressed his deep St Mary, Main Street, Hornby with instrumental music. appreciation to all who dedicate their It was a very special day, one we shall Last Sunday after Pentecost November 21 st at 3.00pm St Andrew and Blessed lives to teaching the young. After the always remember. As the remainder of the George Haydock, Cottam The excitement was still building as final prayer and blessing His Holiness visit to the UK proved to be such a success First Sunday of Advent 10am approached and the time for Pope presented St Mary’s College with a we feel very privileged to have been November 28th at 12.15pm Cathedral Church of Benedict to arrive grew closer. beautiful mosaic of the Virgin Mary. invited to St Mary’s University College St Peter, Lancaster (Missa Cantata) During the final hymn Pope Benedict left and experience a prayer service in the November 28th at 12.30pm St Mary of Furness, Barrow-in-Furness The Prayer for Religious began with the the Chapel and went to the sports arena presence of His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI. (Holy Mass followed by Benediction) With Papal Approval - Everyone is Welcome Martin's The Funeral Directors 188, Tulketh Brow, Ashton-on-Ribble, Preston 1, Stonebridge Parade, Preston Road, Longridge Tel. 01772-733007 or 01772-782121 Proprietor W. Martin Wootton Dedicated and Blessed Chapels of Rest Golden Charter Pre-Paid Funeral Plans

The complete funeral service from a private family owned and run firm

from the Pontiff

Shaun in black CAFOD received a fantastic opportunity to meet Pope Benedict in jersey on the left. ILondon from CAFOD Lancaster and the Preston Impact Hello Youth Group. I was humbled and grateful to be offered this place and it was a fantastic and memorable time in my life. I stood on Westminster Piazza and received a hello from the Pontiff, which was a surreal moment for me. The Pope’s visit has been inspirational to the Catholic Church in Britain and has made young Catholics proud of their faith. As a youth group, I hope we reflect on the visit and pray for young people worldwide. (Shaun Morgan) www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk November 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 11 DiAroundocDeseioDio thecceseeDisoceese DioceseDioceseDiocese Garstang and Chester Link DiocDioecessee

n Thursday, 15th July, 2010 The evening commenced with OGarstang and Chester Catenians concelebrated Holy Mass in which met to commemorate the link between the principal celebrant was the the town of Garstang and the City of Rt. Rev. , Bishop of Chester through the Garstang born Shrewsbury. He was assisted by Fr. David Garstang Priest and English Martyr St. John Elder, Parish Priest of St. Mary & and Chester Circles and members from Plessington, who was executed at St. Michael’s Garstang, and Fr. John Circles from a number of Catenian Chester of 19th July 1679, on the sole Winstanley, Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Provinces in the North West. Just before charge that he was a Catholic Priest. Ansdell, son of a Garstang Catenian, the close of the meeting, the Immediate Fr Robin Sutton and Fr Prins Casinader Past President of the Catenian Association The meeting was the second such O.F.M, both of Chester. In the region of Joe McNally, congratulated Chester and meeting between the two Catenian 180 Catenians and their ladies attended Garstang Circles on the event and said he Circles and this year Chester were the the Mass, which concluded with the hoped the tradition between the two St. Ignatius Church Preston hosts. The event was held in function singing of hymns ‘Faith of Our Fathers’ and Circles’ would continue. suites in the County Stand at Chester ‘For All The Saints’ reverberating around Annual Racecourse, and the principal guests for the building. An excellent evening was brought to a Pilgrimage July 26th 2011 the evening were the Grand President of close with Catenians joining their ladies By Coach to 2 nights the Catenian Association Vernon De Cruz A Catenian meeting followed attended by and guests for a celebratory dinner. Dublin, and his wife, Evelyn. 97 Catenians, including members from (Tom Rigby, Secretary Garstang Catenians) Knock 5 nights Ireland Knock

If interested please ring Anne Oastler on 01772 795283 or email: [email protected] before Christmas

GEORGE HALL & SON LTD (Funeral Directors) Barrow-in-Furness Established 1938

24 Hour Service 'Peace of Mind' Pre paid Funeral Plans Available

9-11 Buccleuch Street Barrow-in-Furness LA14 1SS TEL: 01229 820514 A Member of the National Association of Funeral Directors Ushaw

Retreathis is the theme of the recent retreat for permanent Tdeacons at Ushaw College. Nine permanent deacons I shall not call gathered under the guidance of Rev. Chris Cousens from 6th to 9th September. The days were a mixture of talks, prayers, reflection and time to be in each others company. Mass was celebrated each day in the chapel of St. Cuthbert. you servants We looked at our relationship with Jesus and how we went about his mission. Meeting people where they were and not being judgemental. We looked at prayer and how our prayers are not just those written down in a book but the prayer of our actions, anymore, our thoughts and our work. We are called to follow in the footsteps of Christ to imitate him, to help others.

The Holy Scriptures were well quoted and our final session had I shall call us looking at two passages in an attempt to tease out their meaning and relevance today.

We came away from Ushaw with a sense of refreshment, renewal you friends and affirmation. Deacon Chris Barwise 12 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + November 2010 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk PilgrimageSchoolPs ilgrimage PPilgPilgrimageilrgimraimgeage PilPgPiirlglirgimmargaeimgeage

Pilgrimageto Poland

OurShrine Lady’s at Knock

n July a group of Pilgrims left Preston for their Annual IPilgrimage to Our Lady's Shrine at Knock, Co Mayo, Eire. It was a very uplifting and memorable occasion where we experienced many blessings

Anne Oastler said “During our time there as well as experiencing the spiritual peace of Our Lady’s Shrine we extended the ground covered to take in the beautiful surrounding areas on our days out. This year a highlight was meeting Susan Boyle who was on private pilgrimage for the weekend to the Shrine. It was a great privilege to hear her sing Ave Maria at the 10.30 Mass in the Basilica. Her lovely voice filled the huge building.”

For details of next years Knock Pilgrimage give Anne Oastler a call on 01772 795283.

n August, 47 pilgrims aged from 8 to 80 set off from ILiverpool to Poland. They came from Barrow, Appleby, Kirkby Stephen, Preston, Chorley, Bamber Bridge and Lincoln and comprised a motley crew of Catholics, Anglicans and Quakers.

Matt and Pat Bailey from Bamber Bridge, Preston provide this report:

Our ‘leader’ was Fr Alecs, parish priest for Appleby and Kirkby Stephen, a Polish priest who exudes love for Poland, its history and its people.

Our base was to be the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy just south of Cracow which is where the relics of Saint Faustina are venerated.

The eight days were packed with visits to Cracow, Auschwitz, the birthplace of John Paul II, rafting down the Dunajes river in the Pieninski national park and a trip to the mountains of Zakopane.

In addition we visited the salt mines. We descended 130 metres while admiring the salt sculptures and tunnels and then stood in amazement in the salt cathedral. At the end of the trip we zoomed to the surface in a miner's cage.

The focus of our pilgrimage was our visit to the shrine of the Black Madonna at the monastery in Czestochowa. There we participated in the singing and dancing as we processed through the main arena with the group from Fr Alecs' diocese in Poland namely number 17 Jedlinsk in Radom. The joy of the occasion was tremendous especially when Fr Alecs met his ‘home’ family. His beaming face was a delight to us all.

A wonderful and prayerful experience which we would recommend to others. www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk November 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 13

in Peace

Fr Patrick Doyle RIP Extracts from the Homily given at the Funeral Mass for Fr Leo Kelly: t is with great sadness that I inform Restyou of the death of Fr Patrick I Doyle, who died after some years of ill-health, in the evening of 25 August “In truth, this man was a son of God” 2010. May he rest in the peace of the (Mk 15/39) Risen Christ. The centurion, who spoke these words as Jesus died a cruel and excruciating death, had probably only known Jesus during his Fr Doyle was born on 3 July 1926 at final journey to Calvary. He would hardly have spoken with him in Ballindaggin, Co. Wexford. He went Fr Leo Kelly RIP life – he only saw the way he died. to primary school at St. Coleman’s, Ballindaggin before moving for his t is also with great sadness that I Today we gather around Fr. Leo’s earthly remains and offer the secondary education to St. Senan Iinform you of the death of Fr Leo Eucharistic Sacrifice for a true son of God, a true son of the Technical School, Enniscorthy and then Joseph Kelly who died in the evening of Church. On the day he was baptised in Castlerea Parish Church, on to St. Columba’s Juniorate, Brothers 25 August 2010. May he rest in the St. Patrick’s Church, Co. Roscommon, early in July 1923, God of Charity, Rochestown, Co. Cork. peace of the Risen Christ. called him to be priest, prophet and servant-leader. He was baptised in St. Patrick’s Church - and today we pray for the Fr Patrick was a nurse for five years before Fr Kelly was born on 16 July 1923, repose of his soul here in St. Patrick’s Church. entering the Congregation of the Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, Ireland. He Brothers of Charity. As a Professed was educated initially by the Sisters of When he was ordained and appointed by the second Bishop of member of the Congregation he lived Mercy, Castlerea and then with the Marist Lancaster, Bishop Thomas Edward Flynn, to serve as a curate and worked for 20 years in various parts Brothers, Castlerea before moving on at the Cathedral (where he spent 13 years), he became very well of Ireland, and Scotland. to Summerhill College, Sligo for his known to the people of Lancaster. He became known to be a Secondary education. Fr Kelly went on kind and gentle young priest, quiet and private, yet loved by After being accepted as a seminary to train for the Priesthood and more the people. student for the Diocese of Lancaster, specifically the English-speaking mission Fr Doyle was ordained a priest on 18 at St Patrick’s College, Carlow and was Last night at the Deanery Funeral Mass for Fr. Leo, Archbishop April 1976, in his home parish of ordained from there on 6 June 1948. Patrick Kelly recalled a memory of when the Archbishop was Ballindaggin. himself a young curate at . He told us how he Fr Kelly’s appointments as Assistant Priest was out visiting families in the parish. The first house he came to, Fr Doyle’s appointments as Assistant were at the Cathedral, Lancaster (1948- the door was answered by a small child. “Tell your mummy that Fr. Priest included St. Columba, Barrow 1961), St. Bede, Carlisle (1961-1964) and Kelly is here.” The little boy went back into the house, calling: (1976-1981), English Martyrs, Preston St. Maria Goretti, Preston (1964-1967). “Mummy, Fr. Kelly’s here!” His Mum came rushing to the door with (1981-1982 - 6 months), St. Charles, As Parish Priest, he served at Christ the the broadest of smiles on her face, only to discover that it was Grange (1982 - 6 months), St. Cuthbert, King, Milnthorpe (1967-1972) and then not the Fr. Kelly! The smile disappeared from her face when she Blackpool (1982-1990). As Parish Priest, at St. Patrick’s, Heysham from 1972 until discovered it was only the future Archbishop of Liverpool at Fr Doyle served at St. Bernard, Knott End his retirement from there in 1994. As a the door! (1990-1997) from where he retired to retired priest of the Diocese, Fr Kelly lived eventually settle once again in Ireland at for several years at Torrisholme before All his life, Leo has been a people’s person. He rarely forgot Knockeen Nursing Home, Barntown, Co moving more recently into Nazareth people’s names. He got on with everyone. He loved children, he Wexford. House where he was cared for so was wonderful with them; He was a man for all peoples. He died generously. as he lived, trusting that his Avenger lives. (The meaning of My heartfelt condolences go out most ‘Avenger’ in this passage from the Book of Job is ‘Vindicator’.) Now especially to Fr Doyle’s sorrowing brothers, My heartfelt condolences go out most the Lord has vindicated Leo and the Lord has found him sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives especially to all his wider family, friends righteous. The words of this passage could be the words in the and friends; all his wider family, friends and those he served during his long and mouth of Leo as he lay dying last week: and those he served during his faithful faithful time of ministry as a priest of the time of ministry as a priest of the Diocese. Diocese. ‘After my awakening he will set me close to him, and from my flesh I shall look on God. Fr Doyle’s Requiem Mass took place on A Deanery Mass took place at St. Patrick’s Friday 27 August followed by burial. church, Heysham on Tuesday, 31 August He whom I shall see will take my part; Frs Simon Hawksworth and Tom Quirke 2010 followed by Fr Kelly’s Requiem Mass These eyes will gaze on him and find him not aloof.’ represented the Diocese. on Wednesday, 1 September 2010. Jb 19/26-27a

Michael G Campbell OSA Michael G Campbell OSA Leo’s life-long desires have now been totally fulfilled - May he Bishop of Lancaster Bishop of Lancaster rest in peace. Fr. David J. Elder, VF. 14 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + November 2010 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk

he month of November is dying remains for ever. We cannot Ttraditionally dedicated to the Holy compare time in this life with time in the Souls. The Holy Souls are called Holy next life. because they are on their way to heaven. We believe that after death we will be St. Catherine of Genoa is noted for her judged and that after judgement three revelations on purgatory which she Feast choices await us: hell, purgatory or describes as a truly great grace from God heaven. Hell for those who have rejected and she writes that the happiness of souls God, heaven for those who die as saints increases as they are purified. Father and purgatory for everybody else. Schouppe, who has written about purgatory from the revelations of the Heaven indeed is a state to be achieved, saints, tells us that Our Lady herself goes but on earth, before death, as Our Lord to purgatory to release the souls on of the teaches us: Saturdays and her feast days. Other mystical sources indicate that the “Walk while you have greatest number of souls is released on the light;” Christmas Day and that when we pray for our loved ones by name they can see us on earth. Our Lady promised to release from “The night cometh in which purgatory quickly those who wear the Holy no man can work.” Scapular of Mount Carmel devoutly, not as a charm, but with proper devotion while “This night do they require living a holy life. The Holy Souls rely on thy soul of thee.” us to aid them in their purification by our prayers.

In the case of the Holy Souls, they shall We do not fully realise the advocates we have certainty of eventually enjoying the have in the Holy Souls and once they have Souls Beatific Vision. Only perfect love can see joined the Father in Heaven they pray God face to face so in purgatory we are for our needs before the Throne of God. purified from all our imperfections and St Alphonsus Liguori says that the Holy grow in love before we are ready to see Souls can obtain for us great graces. They God face to face in heaven. If we did are not, formally speaking, intercessors as not believe in purgatory then the the saints are but, through the sweet commemoration of the feast of the Holy Providence of God, they can obtain for us Souls and our prayers for them would not astounding favours and deliver us from make sense. evils, sickness and dangers of every kind. In the prayer and set of fundamental We believe that God is all merciful and beliefs which we call the ‘Apostles Creed’, that Jesus’ passion and resurrection saved mention is made of the Communion of Illustration by Elizabeth Wang, ‘The Holy Souls who have us but that does not excuse us from being Saints. This means that the faithful on been purified in Purgatory are ready to enter heaven’, purified. Jesus has saved us but we still earth, the blessed in heaven and the souls copyright © Radiant Light 2010, www.radiantlight.org.uk need to make amends for sin committed in purgatory are united in one Mystical and be purified. This expiation for sin must Body with Christ as the Head. be made either in this life or the next.

Holy Souls Pope Benedict, when Cardinal Ratzinger, We can help the souls in purgatory in expressed it as - many ways:

• Having Mass offered for the soul of a departed loved one is the greatest help …the inwardly“ necessary we can give them because Mass, being process of transformation in the sacrifice of Jesus offered to the Father, is the greatest prayer. which a person becomes capable of Christ, capable of • We can pray for the souls in purgatory. God and thus capable of unity • We can offer our fasting, almsgiving with the whole communion and pilgrimages in atonement for the of saints. Simply to look at souls in purgatory. people with any degree of • We can also gain a plenary indulgence realism at all is to grasp the (full remission of all temporal punishment due for sins) for souls in necessity of such a process…. purgatory each day from Nov. 1st to …man is the recipient of 8th by : divine mercy yet this does - Visiting a cemetery and praying for not exonerate him from the the faithful departed need to be transformed. - Praying there for the Pope’s intentions Encounter with the Lord the Creed and one Our Father is this transformation… - Receiving Holy Communion within a week before or afterwards

- Receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation within a week before Time in purgatory does” not pass like time or afterwards here on earth. Death, being the natural separation between body and soul, drew - Being in a state of grace i.e. not having their human selves out from the material any attachment or desire for sin of world, and out from time altogether, any kind. which is the created dimension where they had led their lives on earth. Leaving Eternal rest give unto them O Lord and time means to enter permanence and that let perpetual light shine upon them. is why after the soul has departed from May they rest in peace, Amen. the body, its ultimate disposition before (Jenny Phillips) www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk November 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 15 PaPpaal VipsiPtaapal VlisPi tsaVpail sViisitt PapalPaPpaapl VVisitaisl iVt isit Pope Fest PPaapapl Viasit l Visit Pope Fest

hat an amazing few days: I have been able to take a part in this W‘Glastonbury with God’, one historical event and listening to the Pope's newspaper columnist dubbed it! voice addressing all young Catholics has Lancaster Diocese took eighty young strengthened my faith even more. I would people down to London to the Youth like to thank all the people who helped us Event in the piazza of Westminster on the day, everyone who organised the Cathedral where two of our group were pilgrimage and most of all the other privileged enough to stand alongside young Catholics who made the same Pope Benedict (Tomas Walsh from journey as me and joined together to Cleveleys and Shaun Morgan from welcome Pope Benedict XVI to the UK and Preston). After ecstatic scenes where show him just how strong our faith is. young people greeted the Pope, Benedict XVI exhorted young people Steph Price, 24 to live lives worthy of love. I could give you a run-down of what we did and how it all felt to be at this historic From Westminster Cathedral, we joined event but believe me I would be here for thousands of other young people from days, and none of it would do it justice. around the country in a procession past Even now it is still hard to process all that Buckingham Palace and to Hyde Park for my heart saw, felt, and gave in these the evening vigil with the Pope. There, we precious moments. I really feel that joined a crowd of 80,000 young people, he young people that gathered in Beautiful Words flags flapping in the wind. During the Westminster and Hyde Park are a true Capturing Memories afternoon, there was a mixture of singing, testament to the words that the Pope A unique professional writing service offering: Life stories and drama, testimony and prayer and we memories providing a special, undeniably personal present for said in his homily at Westminster. There birthdays, anniversaries and retirement. Beautifully written were able to watch the progress of the are so many things that could be said tributes, with photographs, to provide a lasting and treasured memory of an individual or pet. All tributes are bound in an ‘popemobile’ as it passed through London. about the Pope’s various speeches on attractive leather folder, with the options of a personalised The atmosphere was electrifying as the inscription and hand-crafted mahogany finish presentation Saturday but that is not what I will always case. All calls dealt with sensitively and with care and sincerity. Pope turned into Hyde Park. As the vigil remember from this special day. Words began, the excitement turned to a Call Angela Norris MA, BA(Hons) fade. Memories live on. 01253 811691 or visit profound reverence, as you could have www.beautiful-words.co.uk heard a pin drop as everyone knelt in I will never forget the electricity that ran silence during Benediction. It was amazing through the crowd at Westminster as we to think that we were kneeling not so far awaited the Pope, and the Mass. I will Established 1839 from the Tyburn where so many martyrs never forget the cold I experienced sat in • Memorials • Renovations • Lettering • Marble • Granite died for their faith and love for their the piazza that morning. I will never forget • Slate • Stone of all kinds, colour & designs • Catholic faith. the warmth of the sun that washed over Wray Brothers are long established monumental masons highly regarded for quality of their workmanship and me as we went to receive Communion. personal service. Traditional Hand Cut Letters Here some of the young people share their I will never forget the sea of young people Proprietors: S. A. Edwards, experiences: walking along the roads of central London M. A. Edwards, G. Edwards to get to Hyde Park. I will never forget the 51a Layton Road, Layton, Katie Thompson, 17 fun, the laughter, the smiles, the rejoicing Blackpool FY3 8EB Tel/Fax: 01253 392620 On Saturday 18 September I was in of friends from different dioceses and London with thousands of other young organisations finding each other in a people, all joined together to see the crowd of 3,000 young people. I will never Pope. Before the trip I didn't know what to forget the colour of all the dioceses. I will Have you been meaning to make a Will Jennings Funeral Able but never got round to it? expect. But when I saw the Pope come out never forget the excitement of the camera Do you own property? Are your children under 18? of the cathedral and greet us young zooming in on different people. I will never JS Wills F Services Professional Will Are you worried about Catholics I felt pure joy. Here was the head forget the moment the Pope arrived into (Catholic Funeral Directors) Writers & Estate nursing home fees? Planners Might your estate be liable of the Catholic Church and I stood not Hyde Park. I will never forget the silence to Inheritance Tax? 13 Racca Green, Knottingley WF11 8AT that far away. It was an experience I will and stillness that came over 80,000 Telephone: 01977 677715 never forget. The night before meeting people during adoration in Hyde Park. the other young people I would be • Highest standards of care • Family owned and managed travelling with I was nervous since I But more than anything I will never forget • Pre payment plans did not know many people there. But the sheer love that our Papa has for us. • 24 hour service everyone was so kind and welcoming, The affection and love that he clearly has • Personal attention of Barry and I soon found myself making new friends for all of his flock, especially the young. Elizabeth Jennings If the answer to any of the above is “Yes” then we can help. and before I knew it I had been up all The way that his eyes lit up to our Specialists for: Wills and Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney, night talking to some great people. My cheering. The way that he waved his A Personal and Dignified Property & Discretionary Trusts, Funeral Plans Call Malcolm Nightingale For a FREE home visit. pilgrimage to London has been one that hands in love of us. The way that his heart Family Business that Cares 01539 737400 I will never forget. I feel so honoured that spoke to mine. 7, Windermere Road, Kendal 16 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + November 2010 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk Congratulations!

n a glorious June day Fr Thomas A buffet lunch ollowedf provided by the OQuirke, resident at St. Winefride’s ‘Friends of St Winefrides’ and there was House celebrated his priestly silver jubilee the compulsory celebration cake to be with an open air Mass in the grounds enjoyed. joined by fellow priests and around 50 family and friends. Many had travelled Two other jubilarians were present for the long distances with some close family occasion, Fr Joe O’Connor who gave the making the trip from Ireland. A niece of homily and Fr Peter Houghton. Fr Quirke, Alison, accompanied the Admultos Annus. music for the Mass by playing the flute. (Mrs M Gilmartin, Fleetwood)

he Catholic Voice of Lancaster Twebsite has had a facelift! It contains lots of new and Not Alone interesting features as well as keeping you right up to date with You are not alone. events throughout the Diocese. All through your life I am Logon today and see for yourself: with you, whether you are www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk aware of it or not.

You are not alone, so you can rest secure in my peace. Whatever problems Due to an overwhelming surface in the day, you are number of contributions this not left to cope with them month some of the articles sent for publication have had to be on your own. Because I am held over to next month. right there with you. Thank you for your continued Keep on turning to me. support, please keep your You have no need to worry articles and photographs about anything. coming, we will publish them Fr Tony Ashcroft as soon as we are able.

Dont miss out Wanted for the on advertising Missions your Large Statues (Even damaged ones), old vestments, pictures, church Christmas fittings, rosaries, prayer books, etc. Please ring Mr. B. Ferris KSC, 102 Moor St, Earlsdon, Mass Coventry CV5 6EY Times Tel: 02476 676986 call the CathCom team today on 01223 969506