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The Official Newspaper to Inside this month: the Diocese of Lancaster p4 Life at the Manor p9 Confirmation at St ’s Issue 226 + February 2011 p12 40 Years of Hospitality

he first ever Diocesan Altar Servers’ TRetreat took place at Castlerigg Manor, Keswick last October. Thirty Diocesan Altar Servers’ Retreat Altar Servers came from parishes across the Diocese: St Joseph’s, Ansdell, St John Southworth, Cleveleys, St Andrew and Blessed , Cottam, Blessed Sacrament, , St Francis, Goosnargh, Sacred Heart, Barrow, both St Augustine’s and Our Lady & St Joseph’s, Carlisle, Our Lady & St Wilfrid, Warwick Bridge, Our Lady’s, Appleby, St Mary’s, Cleator and Our Lady and St ’s, Workington.

The Retreat centered on workshops based upon the four pillars of The Catechism of the :

‘We Believe, We Worship, We Live, We Pray’.

Sessions involved short talks before groups explored further in related activities. “The depth of religious knowledge and enthusiasm of the Servers was very encouraging; lots of questions were asked ‘I Believe’ and many aspects of our faith explored” said Paul Briers.

Throughout the two days there was Morning and Evening Prayer, a candlelit Holy Hour with the Sacrament of Reconciliation - a very special time of I thought the Retreat was really Adoration in an atmosphere of peace and “ ‘I good. When we all went into calm. Holy Mass was central on both days in which all servers took part in every chapel it was really nice and calm. aspect from reading, taking up the I really liked the atmosphere offertory, leading the singing, playing instruments and serving. I enjoyed the Retreat because I made new friends and the games The beautiful delights of the Lake District were great. The best bit was the with a walk to Castlehead and a last night disco with plenty of refreshments were chapel when we had confessions enjoyed. The grounds of Castlerigg enabled the group to play football, walk, Perfect balance of Prayer, sit and talk or even go to a craft workshop. Mass and Games” Here they made bookmarks, badges and cards for Birthdays and Christmas. I would like to do this retreat again, I enjoyed the main Paul said “I am grateful to Retreat Leader workshops and working in groups Fr Robert Billing, Fr Bernard Woods, Fr Philip Conner, Fr John Moriarty, Retreat Team Leaders Etienne, Kathy Moore, Hannah Beckford and John Donnan who all worked ” so hard to make the Retreat a success.”

We give you thanks Lord, for calling us to serve you. Strengthen our loyalty and keep us faithful to you. May we never forget that you are with us wherever we may go…

It is hoped to run the Retreat again later this year, so watch this space. Paul Briers, Retreat Organiser 2 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + February 2010 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk

EDITORIAL his year will see the Coalition Government of © The Prime Minister's Office TCameron and Nick Clegg launch its household survey to measure the happiness of the nation. In its Spending Review the Government said there was “Widespread acknowledgement that Gross Domestic Product is not the ideal measure of well-being”.

The Office of National Statistics has been tasked with designing and delivering the national survey of happiness, which is expected this spring. The Head of the Office of National Statistics has given an indication of what the happiness survey will attempt to measure: “Important though that GDP is, there is a need to look at broader economic measures, ‘quality-of-life’ indicators and the impact progress has on the environment to assess national well-being, and how the UK is doing.”

Contact us The Catholic Voice of Lancaster welcomes the Government’s The Catholic Voice of Lancaster recognition that economic measures are not enough to indicate is published on the last Sunday of the the well-being of the nation, but doubts that a statistical survey month previous to publication date. can measure something as important, and complex as human happiness. The Catholic Voice of Lancaster is published by its owners. The Trustees What is happiness? According to the Catechism of the Catholic of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Church man has a natural desire for true happiness created in Lancaster, a registered charity, him by God: (No. 234331), and is wholly independent of and separate from any previous newspaper published by or on behalf of the diocese. This desire is of divine ‘origin: God has placed it EDITOR: in the human heart in order to draw man to the Edwina Gillett One who alone can fulfil it: We all want to live of human fulfilment and well being seen from the perspective of 01253 736630 / 07969 967268 man’s fundamental purpose – love of God and love of neighbour. [email protected] happily; in the whole human race there is no Hence, Jesus can talk about happiness and poverty, happiness www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk one who does not assent to this proposition, and grief, happiness and persecution because he sets human even before it is fully articulated. How is it, well being in a wider context than material measures that of our ADVERTISING: eternal relationship with God. Nick Layton / CathCom Ltd. then, that I seek you, Lord? Since in seeking 020 7112 6710 you, my God, I seek a happy life, let me seek While our secular, materialistic society sees poverty, death, and [email protected] persecution as the ultimate catastrophes negating the quality of www.cathcom.org you so that my soul may live, for my body life, Christianity, though equally struggling against these evils, draws life from my soul and my soul draws life knows that true happiness can still be found in poverty, death DESIGN & LAYOUT: from you. God alone satisfies. and persecution if one has a living relationship with God, and a Rob Hotchkiss / Hot Creative loving relationship with those around us. [email protected] (CCC, 1718) www.hot-creative.co.uk Bishop O’Donoghue, in his acclaimed Fit for Mission? Church, made the important observation that we only find true PUBLISHED BY: A survey that only measures material’ aspirations, such as happiness through self-forgetfulness when our focus is on God CathCom Ltd. wealth, health, satisfaction will miss out on the one or our neighbour. Just look at the lives of the for proof 2/4 Church Street, Steeple Bumpstead, essential measure of true happiness, the state of our relationship of this truth! Haverhill, CB9 7DG with God. 0870 228 4266 The Catholic Voice of Lancaster hopes that the Government’s www.cathcom.org The Jerusalem Bible version of the Sermon of the Mount survey of happiness will go beyond material concerns, which translates the usual ‘Blessed are the…’ as ‘Happy are the…’ though important, are not the full measure of man’s true desire Articles to: (Matthew 5: 1-12). Though this translation is unsatisfactory it for happiness, and will attempt to reflect the state of the nation’s [email protected] does however bring out Christianity’s paradoxical understanding spiritual life and well-being. Letters to: [email protected] BY THE WAY… VoiceXtra: [email protected] ‘Back to School’

Postal Address: FAO Edwina Gillett s the year 2011 gets under way, I’ve gone ‘back to school’, School in Preston (now Our Lady’s). Fr. Moore OSB was the 99 Commonside, Ansdell, Aas the advertising logo goes which we see in the shops chaplain (presently P.P. of St. Mary’s, Harrington). In so many ways Lytham St. Annes FY8 4DJ before September each year. Last month I began a new he helped to make the Lord present in that school. The weekly appointment as Chaplain to St. Bede’s High School in Lytham. voluntary Masses were important and special times, but also just Please send articles for publication on CD It’s just a mile or two from St. Joseph’s Church in Ansdell his general presence around the place. When I think of Fr. Bede or by email, supplying any photos separate where I am parish priest. from those days, my memory is of always seeing him with his to the text (i.e. in jpeg format). Otherwise sleeves rolled up! He was always ready to be involved in whatever please type double spacing or write very Although I’ve been a priest for eleven years, it’s the first time the was going on in the school and was happy to chat. clearly. Last date for copy is the LAST Bishop has asked me to serve as Chaplain to a High School. Until DAY of the month prior to publication. now contact with secondary schools has been limited. In Carlisle As 2011 brings new challenges and Photographs will be returned if you and Blackpool I worked mainly as Hospital Chaplain. I always felt opportunities for each of us, I look forward remember to put your name and address that ‘just being around’ was the key to chaplaincy. The wards, and to being part of St. Bede’s in Lytham, on the back of each and enclose suitable corridors (and the hospital restaurant!) were the places to be, so working with Mrs Paula Burdess, who has stamped and self-addressed packaging. patients, relatives, and staff, knew who I was and could have co-ordinated Chaplaincy at the school access to me. I’m sure it will be the same in school: being around for the last seven years, and getting the place and available; wanting to share in the lives of the to know the pupils and staff. There pupils and staff. will be much to learn and discover as I go back to school! In the early 1980’s I was a pupil at St. Cuthbert Mayne High Fr. John Winstanley www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk February 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 3 Faith FaithFaith Faith FaithFaith Faith A Personal Witness of Faith FaithFaith Sister Ildiko makes her Solemn Profession

y name is Sister Ildiko Balsa, and on I came to Boarbank Hall from Hungary 7 Mthe 31st October 2010, the feast of years ago. My own family and parish in All Saints I made my solemn profession Hungary brought me to Christ in baptism as a Canoness of and faith, and helped me to remain Augustine at Boarbank Hall, faithful in very difficult days for religious Grange-over-Sands. believers during the years of communism. My first visit to Boarbank was mainly for Bishop Michael Campbell celebrated the the purpose of learning English, but at the Mass which included the solemn same time there was a searching in me profession ceremony. In his homily Bishop for a way of life. The Sisters at Boarbank, Michael underlined the opening words of their life and their witness influenced the Rule of Saint Augustine: me and so the call to serve God in their community soon began to take root. The spiritual journey through postulancy, novitiate and three years of life after my Before everything, we first profession have worked with God to “ bring me to this day. are to love God, and then our neighbour. My total dedication to following Christ`s initial call has brought me to a community living by the rule of Saint Augustine in ‘vows of chastity, poverty, obedience and the service of the poor and the sick through He continued: “By your” profession today works of mercy’. I work as an assistant in you are declaring that this lofty ideal of the bursar`s office, and many other ways putting God and others first is indeed in the community. I am also a member possible in our often confused and of the Parish Council at St. Charles bewildered world. Your life is intended to Grange-over-Sands. My favourite be a living witness to love. It is never an easy hobby is swimming whenever time and Life of Service road, but it is a noble one. We congratulate opportunity allows it. you on accepting the unique call of Christ that is religious life, and give thanks to God for the power of His grace at work in you. Please pray for Sr. Ildiko in We also assure you of our prayers.” her life of service. What I Do for You More important than what you do for me, is what I do for you.

I am with you every day, I am giving you my deep peace.

I am protecting you and I Wanted for the Missions Large Statues (Even damaged ones), am old vestments, pictures, church fittings, rosaries, prayer books, etc. surrounding you with my Please ring Mr. B. Ferris KSC, 102 Moor St, Earlsdon, presence all the time. Coventry CV5 6EY Tel: 02476 676986

All you need to do is turn to me and open your hands to receive what I bring for you.

Place every aspect of your life into my healing hands that are always there for you.

Fr. Tony Ashcroft What I Do for You 4 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + February 2010 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk

Life at the Manor Being a Young Catholic Today hroughout the year, from Monday to evening), how we open ourselves to new TFriday, and Friday evening till life (the gift of the Holy Spirit, what we Sunday afternoon, different groups are called to in life and how we feed this My Faith come to stay at Castlerigg Manor. The life with a joyful celebration of Mass), The place is always bustling with life and before we are sent out to share what is noise with young people running around given to us. Team Helps me in the gardens, singing, playing table tennis or just sitting around chatting. These themes are explored through different workshops and activities and privileges to work with young people and to Everything A big part of the Castlerigg experience through prayer. be inspired by the young people and the way is the welcome the team give to the in which they are transformed by the end of young people who arrive. Their daily With so many young people these days the retreat. Though it is a tiring week, the I do commitment to community, to prayer, not experiencing parish life, (many have young people give you so much energy and and to serving others creates a warm not had the experience of daily prayer and a joy to keep you going and there’s nothing in environment which the young people, lived experience of faith), one of the most this world I’d rather be doing”. And the arriving from all around the diocese and amazing miracles of Castlerigg is how the young people themselves: ‘Amazing’, beyond, immediately respond to. young people time and time again love ‘Unforgettable’, ‘The best week ever’, ‘Wish the chapel, the peace and silence and the we didn’t have to go’, ‘Brilliant’, ‘Awesome’. Through the course of the week, we opportunity to get to know the great love look at different aspects of the Gospel, that God has for them. Castlerigg is currently looking for young reflecting upon; how we are loved (who people who would like to be part of we are in God’s eyes and how we experience Amelia Rock, who is in her second year as the new team from later in the year. that love), how we are forgiven (the reality a volunteer at Castlerigg and whose faith Application forms are on the website of sin in our world and in our hearts, all came alive at Castlerigg on school visits, with a deadline of 1 March 2011. leading to a Reconciliation Service in the explains that “it is one of the greatest (from the CastleriggTeam) The Life of Flapjack

very first Sunday of the month young Simon Metcalf, 20, Preston Epeople from around the diocese meet together for a walk in the Lake District and Mass in the mountains, and others join us in the evening for a irst of all, my faith helps to give meal and time together, a talk and some Fme a reason for everything I do. prayer in our chapel. When I feel as though I am in a difficult situation I can get through One such walk started out in Braithwaite it knowing that someone is above Village on a clear but cold and windy guiding me through the right path. morning. The group was made up of ten My faith has grown over the past walkers ready to face the challenge of the 3 years, mostly due to going to Coledale Circuit. Leaving blue skies in Lourdes with the Diocese and more Braithwaite, we headed to Stile End past recently going on the Big Walk. an abandoned quarry –a good location for a future Bond movie. Lourdes each year has been a completely new, yet fantastic After Mass we ventured towards experience! The people that you meet, Outerside and had lunch at a height of whether it be the VIP’s, Youth or the 700 metres. By now the weather had Priests all have different stories to tell gone much colder and clouds were and it has offered a great learning heading our way. We could see thick frost experience for me to build on and covering the tops of some of the peaks develop as a person. I have met some which we hope will be thick snow for our great friends whilst socialising in the next Summit. We continued our ascent to Crag Hill christened ‘Flapjack’, after the last thingSummit Diocesan circle and I am sure I will finally reaching 839 metres. We stopped a that was eaten by the group and the first meet many more in the future. If you One of the party, John, was perfectly fine passing walker to take a group photo and thing we tried to feed our new friend. haven’t been to Lourdes before I in his Bermuda shorts and T shirt (or so he then began our descent as the light was Back at Castlerigg, we enjoyed a meal and would recommend you do so! said) but the rest of the group got out beginning to fade. On the way down we a presentation on the papal visit with a their hats, gloves, scarves and thermals. encountered a small vole who we time of prayer. Lizzie Cavanagh, 17 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk February 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 5

ur diocese is very blessed in having differences and respect the ways that children and local Omany Catholic schools. I grew up in children learn. At the same time the circumstances. Blackpool where Catholic education in resource would be developmental, a A CD Rom both primary schools and in St. Mary’s progressive initiation and journey into accompanies each Catholic continues to flourish. Catholic faith and life. Book containing However it may well be that in some music, clip art, areas of the diocese there are parishes At first it was decided that the programme useful templates and families with children who are not would be printed in two books: Book 1 for forms and able for whatever reason (eg they reside for children aged 5 -7 years old, who certificates. in very rural areas) to attend a Catholic have not yet celebrated their First Holy school. They, too, need to be accompanied Communion; Book 2 for those who have The writing team on their journey of faith and whoever celebrated First Reconciliation and First did not want I CALL YOU FRIENDS to be special All takes on that important role of journeying Holy Communion, covering the age range identified in the children’s minds with ASaints day with them needs resources to help of 9 -11 years. It was agreed not to include formal school and homework. At the same Mass was them. I would like to tell you about a explicit preparation for first sacraments in time they wanted the children to have celebrated by new resource which is just being Book 1, because each local parish would something personal to them which would Fr. John Collins published to meet this need. How it has already be offering its own programme of be a reminder of their time together for Travellers and come about is quite a story. preparation for that particular year of throughout the year. So a simple, colourful their families at catechesis. However, the sessions about and attractive ACTIVITY BOOK has been which five children In 1997 when I was a parish catechist in Reconciliation and Eucharist in Book 1 are designed to link with every session, received Holy the diocese of Wrexham, Father Adrian intended to complement this sacramental something for the children to enjoy using Communion for Morin, who was then responsible for preparation and all the sessions provide and to take home to share with their the first time. The catechetics in the diocese, invited all a good foundation for it. The sessions parents, hopefully reinforcing what has children and their parish catechists for a special in-service offered in Book 2 then build on this been experienced in the sessions. families were New Religious New day in Llandudno. I remember what a large sacramental initiation to deepen the supported by gathering it was; people had travelled children’s understanding. If anyone wants to know more about this parishioners, and great distances to be there. They were particular resource I can be contacted staff from Christ Education Resource Education keen to hear about the new resource for Once the writing team began to work in by email: [email protected] I live in the King primary the religious education of children who greater detail on the thematic outline it St. Augustine’s Parish, Preston. school. The are not able to attend a Catholic school. became clear that there was another need (Sr. Grimley) parents of the It was called: WALK WITH ME. It had been to be met. In each diocese that we children had commissioned as part of the National represented we were either dealing For more info. on RE Catechesis provision, particularly asked Project of Catechesis and Religious directly or hearing from other parish support and advice please contact Canon for their children Education to meet a very important need. catechists about the growing numbers of Luiz Ruscillo, Head of Education Service, to be instructed in children who, each year, were asking to be The Education Centre, Balmoral Rd, Lancaster the Sacrament of But no catechetical resource lasts prepared for Baptism. Catechists were LA1 3BT. Tel 01524 841190 or email: Reconciliation and forever. As an adviser for catechetics in looking for suitable resources to help [email protected] Holy Communion. Northampton diocese from 2004, I began them in this period of Christian Initiation. to meet parents and parish catechists who There were several publications for the were looking for a new resource. At the adult RCIA but nothing substantial and same time the advisers for the National specific for children. So it was decided Project had undertaken a review of all that I CALL YOU FRIENDS would include a their publications, recognising the need separate, third book for CICCA, Christian to respond to a changing church and a Initiation of Children of Catechetical Age. changing world. So two years ago Sister Two years and many meetings later, the Victoria Hummell RA, National Project entire resource has been created and is Co-ordinator, brought together a small now being printed by McCrimmons . group of diocesan advisers in England and Wales, a representative from Our Lady’s Every catechist knows that our ministry Catechists and two people who designed of accompanying others on their faith multi-media resources to form a writing journey calls us to deepen our own love team. Our commission for the National and understanding of our faith. That is Project: Living and Sharing our Faith was why each Book of I CALL YOU FRIENDS is to create an entirely new publication. designed to be not only a handbook and It had its official launch on Friday 22 toolbox, as it were, for the parent or October at the headquarters of the catechist, but also a resource to help them Catholic Education Services in London. personally. The writing team were aware that opportunities for adult faith At our preliminary meeting, because we all education and for in-service training for knew parishes where there was a real catechists are not always available or easy need, catechists who were looking for a to access. So the introductory pages resource that was clear to follow and provide a clear explanation of the faith parents who wanted to be involved in their foundations of the programme and how children’s religious education, we made the themes open up these treasures for some important decisions. First, at the the children. Particular attention has been heart of this programme must be the given to explaining why the Word of God, invitation to grow in life-long relationship Scripture and Tradition are so important with God in Christ, within the community and, because prayer and celebration are of faith we call the Church. Hence the title: essential, plenty of helpful advice and I CALL YOU FRIENDS. Secondly, we wanted “tips” are offered. The introduction the programme to be clear, simple, concludes with a step-by-step guide in flexible, and user-friendly in the way it was preparing and leading the sessions which set out. Our hopes were that a parent or always follow the same pattern. This new volunteer catechist would find it provides a secure basic framework for the easy to use, so each session would follow children within which the catechist can a basic pattern. Thirdly, we wanted to still be flexible and creative. ensure that the programme was inclusive and would meet the requirements of The sessions in each book have been children with special needs. organised around three key themes: The Church, Sacraments and Christian Living. Our experience of parish catechesis for Each theme is developed progressively in children convinced us that the age range three sessions in autumn, spring and for this programme should correspond to summer. So there are twenty-seven

I Call You Friends You I Call the years of primary education. It was sessions to cover the year. Each session essential, therefore, that the content and has been planned to last half an hour or process offered should allow for age longer, depending on the age of the 6 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + February 2010 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk

CommunityCommunityCommunityCommunity CommunityCommunityCommunityCommunity Focus Communityon St Kentigern’s, Blackpool

Bishop Campbell, new Parish Priest Fr John pictured with a few of the altar servers on his last day as parish priest. Fr DavidCommunity Burns and the Confirmandi.

Fr Mathew, Fr Thomas, Bishop Campbell, Connie the Fr David Burns and Fr Robert Billing. new mini-bus.

Fr Bob Horn, Fr Peter Burns, Fr Joe O’Connor, Fr David Burns and Fr John Foulkes.

Jimmy O’Donnell is pictured with his niece, Olivia being presented with the Deanery Quiz Trophy by Fr David.

n September St Kentigern’s bade a A week later, Bishop Campbell returned a place of deep faith, a place of caring the Deanery Trophy. St Kentigern’s parish Ifond farewell to their parish priest of to the parish to honour an invitation by and an awareness of far horizons, a place came out on top. nearly 30 years, Fr John Foulkes. Fr John the Indian community. The Mass was of individuality, happiness, trust and came to the parish in 1981 and celebrated celebrated in the Syro-Malabar Rite by co-operation, a place of progress and Mass of Installation his 50th anniversary of ordination Frs Thomas and Mathew. Bishop Campbell achievement. We feel with these ideals In November, a Mass of Installation was earlier in the year. A Jubilee Mass was met many of the families who have made she set out for us and our school motto celebrated for Fr Burns. He was joined by celebrated in June with many of St St Kentigern’s their spiritual home in the ‘Laborare est Orare’ and by working and the Dean, Fr Joe O’Connor, former parish Kentigern’s former clergy present and UK. After the Mass, Bishop Campbell praying together we can achieve them in priest Fr John Foulkes, Fr Bob Horn and current priests of the Blackpool deanery. retired to the Presbytery for an Indian our school and parish community. We pray Fr Peter Burns. This marked Fr David’s meal with the clergy. that Cornelia will watch over us in our new ‘official’ appointment as parish priest at In October, Bishop Campbell visited minibus as we provide new opportunities St Kentigern’s. It was a wonderful the parish to celebrate Mass for the School Mini-bus - ‘Connie’ for our pupils to enrich their learning journey. opportunity for Fr David to publicly make Sacrament of Confirmation. This was a St Kentigern’s School became the proud his commitment to serving the people of wonderful celebration of our young owners of their first school mini-bus in Deanery Quiz St Kentigern’s parish. A hot pot supper was people and their journey of faith. There November. Connie was named after In November, St Kentigern’s hosted the enjoyed afterwards in the Parish Centre. was an informal get-together in the Cornelia Connelly, the foundress of the Annual Deanery Quiz. This event, in its Parish Centre afterwards and a brief order of the Holy Child of Jesus nuns who 7th year, brings together parishioners If you would like your Parish to feature ‘In pause at the historic moment of 2010hrs set up our school in 1904. Cornelia from the Blackpool deanery to pit their Focus’ please contact the Editor, contact on 20.10.2010. Connelly's ideals were; a place of growth, wits against each other in an effort to win details on Page 2. www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk February 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 7 Benedict Bounce! Introduction to Mass on the Feast of Christ the King, St Wulstan’s and St Edmund’s Fleetwood

i, I’m Kate Gregory and a member of was presented in front of me, but then it I think that youth nowadays, growing up Hthe Parish Impact Group. On the day dawned on me; this was Christ himself, in an ever growing secular society find it that I write this, we mark two very spe- the Messiah, the one that was nailed to hard to hear the voice of God – I know cial occasions, not only is it the feast of the Cross for me. I left feeling completely myself, how I and others around me have Your letters Christ the King, but it’s also National renewed in my faith, filled with the Holy struggled and continue to struggle to How to send us Youth Sunday - something which I feel Spirit- and as I bounded into live a life in devotion to God. your letters: very strongly about. college bright and early the following Monday, I was greeted with ‘and why Faith for many youth today is something Write to: I was recently part of a group of youth would you want to go and see the ?’ I to be ashamed of and as I got into my The Editor, from all over Lancaster who travelled to contemplated and then realised I was teens I felt like this too. Yet I learnt 99, Commonside, London to see the Pope. I went with the actually speechless, which, is very rare for through prayer that my Faith is something Ansdell, attitude; it'll be good fun, something that me. There were not any words that could to be so proud of, something to treasure. Lytham St. Annes, I can’t miss out on being the person I am – possibly begin to describe what I had felt We are all children of God and made so FY8 4DJ. I did not contemplate just how big an and experienced. completely perfect in his eyes, it was effect it would have on me. As we barged through my realisation of this that my Email to: our way to the front of the barriers, The Pope said “Every day we have to choose viewpoint began to change. [email protected] Lancaster, being one of the smallest to love and this requires help. I ask you to dioceses, really stood strong, with chants look into your hearts, each day, to find the Like the others around me I have been • Please keep your letters concise that could be heard from inside the source of all true love. Jesus is always there actively involved within the Church; (max 300 words), cathedral, according to a priest, maybe a quietly waiting for us to be still with him and serving the elderly in Lourdes, going on • Include your full name and address reflection of the loud mouths within the to hear his voice. Deep within your heart, he retreat to Castlerigg, singing in Parish • Letters should not include any group. However, as the Pope emerged, I is calling you to spend time with him in music groups and joining with the personal criticism or attacks paused and turned to look at those prayer.” At the time when he said this, I Impact group. We are a truly living • The editor reserves the right to: around, the thousands of screaming youth was screaming far too loud for his words Church that offers great opportunities - amend or shorten letters or to yearning for the sight, voice and blessing to register, but reading the words on the for young people to encounter the love refuse to publish them (no of Benedict. Only then did it strike me, just way home this particular quote struck me. of Christ. correspondence to discuss decisions how big this occasion was, and to be part Jesus is always there, in our most darkest taken will be entered into) of it is something I struggle to describe. most vulnerable moments, he's the On this feast day, a day of celebration – - publish a response if deemed one that comforts us – as the Book of so I really do hope that you all enjoy appropriate Later in Hyde Park the Pope exposed the Revelation says ‘one day I will wipe every our take on the Mass and take away Blessed Sacrament. Again I was naive to tear from your eyes’ and for this and many something uniquely special that God the concept of what it actually was that more reasons, is why we hail him King. will provide. 8 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + February 2010 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk Fr. Tad Pacholczyk Fr.Fr. TadTadFr. TadPacholczyk Pacholczyk Pacholczyk - MAKING SENSE OUT OF BIOETHICS Fr. TadFr. Tad PacholczykPacholczyk

n modern times, dying is more and don't want Custer. You want Robert E. Lee, Imore often portrayed as a cold, someone who knew how to fight for territory clinical reality to be kept at arm's when he could and how to surrender when length, relegated to the closed doors he couldn't, someone who understood that of a hospital, almost hermetically the damage is greatest if all you do is fight to sealed from the rest of our lives. the bitter end.” When it comes to the event itself, we diligently work to avoid confronting it, Trying every option in the face of terminal addressing it, or acknowledging it. illness, pursuing all medical possibilities Because of this cultural backdrop, no matter how unlikely to succeed, and patients receiving a diagnosis of a raging against death can easily become terminal illness can be tempted to the default position in a culture that indulge in unrealistic expectations hesitates to acknowledge or discuss death about what lies ahead, clinging to openly. Yet approaching our own mortality unreasonable treatment options and with a greater dose of realism helps us hoping for highly improbable outcomes. make better decisions about when to roll back the medical interventions and focus The patient-survival curve for various our energies on preparing for death. terminal diseases often shows patients Hospice and palliative care can be clustered around a median survival time important and helpful adjuncts in of perhaps several months or a year or this process. When done well, these two, with survivability extending out along approaches allow us to focus on a more slender tail into the future for an improving the remaining time for those Facing ever smaller number of people. Yet rather with a terminal illness. Pain management, often, that long tail seems to become the comfort care, acknowledgement of the focus, even the obsession, of so many coming death, family support and an patients and doctors. As Dr. Atul Gawande opportunity for spiritual reconciliation Terminal put it recently in a thought-provoking are essential elements in these essay in The New Yorker: approaches. Far from abandoning the needs of patients, hospice and palliative care seek to properly acknowledge that in some cases, efforts at curing should Illnesses be scaled back while efforts at caring for There is almost always a “ the patient should be scaled up. long tail of possibility, however thin. What's wrong Terminally ill patients who choose to Realistically discuss end of life treatments with their with looking for it? Nothing, families and doctors more often opt for it seems to me, unless it palliative care or hospice care, leading to means we have failed to more appropriate medical care near death, and better overall outcomes and prepare for the outcome satisfaction. They also tend to spend less that's vastly more probable. money and do not die significantly earlier. Rather they often die more peacefully The trouble is that we've than those receiving aggressive built our medical system interventions, which tend to be and culture around the associated with a poorer standard of life and a worse bereavement adjustment. long tail. We've created a multi-trillion-dollar edifice Our instincts so often tell us that facing death means facing fears about loss for dispensing the medical of control and dignity, increasing equivalent of lottery tickets dependence on others, intractable pain, – and have only the dying too soon (or not soon enough), increasing costs, being alone and fear of rudiments of a system to the unknown. Because we die only once, prepare patients for the we have little or no experience to draw upon when these matters come upon us near-certainty that those in the first person. Yet when doctors and tickets will not win.. nurses are willing to have the hard discussions and say what they have seen, when families become willing to acknowledge death and mortality, and One is reminded of” the words of the old when spiritual preparations are allowed platitude: “No one gets out of this life alive.” to hold priority of place, patients can Because clinicians tend to view death in better and more peacefully prepare for terms of failure, and because our medical what lies ahead when they receive the system generally values doing something summons of approaching death in the over doing nothing, even when it may form of a terminal illness. be futile to do so, rational, measured decision-making at the end of life can become difficult, as Dr. Gawande Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned his emphasizes: doctorate in neuroscience from Yale and did post-doctoral work at Harvard. He is a priest of the diocese of “The simple view is that medicine exists to Fall River, MA, and fight death and disease, and that is, of serves as the Director course, its most basic task. Death is the of Education at The enemy. But the enemy has superior forces. National Catholic Eventually, it wins. And, in a war that you Bioethics Center. See cannot win, you don't want a general who www.ncbcenter.org fights to the point of total annihilation. You www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk February 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 9 DioceseAroundDioceseDiocese theDiocese DioceseDioceseDiocese Quo Vadis? DioceseDiocese Interested in teaching or leading in a Confirmation at Catholic school? s part of the Year of Catholic understood and really matters”. The flexible AEducation following the visit plan for the day with differentiated groups St Joseph’s Ansdell of Pope Benedict, the Schools and individual consultations will provide Departments of the five north west for new entrants, Catholic teachers in Catholic dioceses including our own community schools, returners and ishop Campbell confirmed 13 young Hoyle, 14, of St Annes sang the 23rd Diocesan Education Service in Lancaster experienced teachers outside Catholic Bpeople at St Joseph’s, Ansdell psalm with a touching purity and beauty. are working with Liverpool Hope schools considering applications for in November. University to hold an information day on leadership positions. The presentations The confirmation group spent a weekend Saturday 12 March 2011 at Liverpool and workshops will be led or delivered by The Bishop said, “It was a faith filled at Castlerigg in October where Fr Philip Hope to assist teachers and students diocesan advisers, serving head teachers, occasion for those who were confirmed as Conner and his team made a great thinking about applying for posts in teachers and colleagues from Liverpool well as for their families and for the impression. Maddy Tansey, 14, from Catholic schools. Hope University. parishioners of St Joseph’s”. Ansdell, said, “It’s such a cool place. I can’t wait to go again!” Fr John Winstanley, Last year over thirty qualified teachers and Further details available from the The candidates had been preparing parish priest said, “It is great to see such students attended the first ever such Diocesan Education Centre, secretary@ since Pentecost and they each made a wonderful young people in our parish. They event. Their feedback was overwhelmingly lancasterrcdiocese.org.uk or telephone contribution during the Mass. Jessica have so much to give the church.” D. Tansey positive including remarks such as: 01524 841190. Applications should be “excellent, really, really helpful” and “now made as soon as possible to ensure your I know I do want to work where my faith is place and no later than 18 February 2011.

Confirmation at the Willows Kirkham

hen we see an inflated balloon we The young people of The Willows, Kirkham Wknow that it is full of air. The air used this analogy as part of their preparation enables it to inflate, it enables it to for confirmation, to help them to think float, but, we can’t see it. The balloon about the power of the Holy Spirit. becomes what it is meant to be because of the air that is within it. You can’t see As we added our prayers to balloons we the Holy Spirit. You can’t contain it. Yet, prayed that our parish will continue to see we can see the fruits of the Holy Spirit in the Holy Spirit at work through each one the way we live and the gifts we share. of us. Mo Baldwin 10 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + February 2010 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk

Diocese Diocese Diocese DioceseDioceseAround the DioceseDioceseDiocese Cathedral School – A Hidden Gem

athedral Catholic Blessed Sacrament and opportunities for ‘strong voice through the school council’ Cliff Small Funeral Service Cin Lancaster has a lot to celebrate. quiet meditation as well as joyful singing’. and ‘many value their roles as eco- At the end of last term they received (R.E. inspection report 2010). The school’s councillors, taking care of the environment’ ‘outstanding’ in their R.E. inspection and monthly ‘Baptism Assembly’ is a super way (OFTSED 2010). Children are encouraged earlier in the year they achieved a ‘good’ to involve parents and the wider parish to think for themselves and to be involved Independent Family firm OFTSED inspection report. Many people community in the prayer life of the school at all levels of decision making. A few For Personal, Caring Attention pass Cathedral Catholic Primary School and the staff and pupils enjoyed sharing years ago, they helped to choose the new Private Chapels, Pre-paid Funerals Plans on Balmoral Road in Lancaster without this with Bishop Michael in November. school uniform colours – maroon and gold even realising it is there and yet – and they have contributed to the school 20 Brookhouse Rd, Caton LA2 9QT Tel: (01524) 770886 this ‘outstanding catholic school’ (R.E. The school enjoys strong links with the charter on ‘say no to bullying’. A wide range 33 Claremont Rd, Morecambe LA4 4HL Tel: (01524) 424072 inspection report 2010) offers its children Cathedral Parish and they often join of afterschool activities are offered to the 91 Main Rd, Bolton-le-Sands LA5 8EQ Tel: (01524) 736166 a ‘caring, family-like environment’ where together for shared celebrations and children, including sports clubs, eco-club, GEORGE HALL & SON LTD ‘care, guidance and support are strong liturgies. The school’s mission statement, crafts clubs, choir and there is a popular features’. (OFSTED 2010) ‘We are growing in faith, love and knowledge daily ‘Fun Club’ where pupils can stay until (Funeral Directors) taking God’s light into the world’ is the six o’clock, particularly useful for working Barrow-in-Furness Established 1938 The school is led by Miss Anne Goddard, foundation of all the staff, pupils, parents parents. A good number of pupils are ‘a dedicated and inspirational headteacher’ and governors strive to do. Children learn involved in the ‘Cathedral Choristers’ and 24 Hour Service 'Peace of Mind' Pre paid Funeral Plans Available (OFSTED 2010 and R.E. inspection report about and experience the Catholic faith they meet twice a week to learn and 2010) who ‘has built a committed team of and develop an understanding of how rehearse music to sing during Mass in 9-11 Buccleuch Street Barrow-in-Furness LA14 1SS teachers and support staff who clearly enjoy they are called to live out the teachings the Cathedral. TEL: 01229 820514 working at the school’ (OFSTED 2010). It is of Jesus in our world through their a Catholic school where a love of God is interactions with each other and through Overall, everyone who is involved with A Member of the National Association of Funeral Directors reflected in relationships between staff, outreach to those in need both locally and Cathedral school comments on the pupils, parents, governors and the wider in the global community. Children are strong, caring ethos and this is reflected in community. When asked by OFSTED to involved in ‘taking God’s light into the both the recent R.E. inspection report and describe the school family, one pupil said, world’ at many levels. Locally, they the OFSTED report. It is a school family “It’s a joyful school – lots of people smile”. deliver harvest boxes to housebound and parents, pupils, staff and visitors are The R.E. inspection report highlights the parishioners, they sing carols to the treated as such. They work together to ‘vibrant, living, deep commitment to the elderly and housebound in the local provide the best learning environment for school’s role in fulfilling the mission of the community and they collect money to each child and the contribution of every Church to educate the whole person’. support the local homeless shelter. pupil to the school is celebrated and Internationally, the children have sent valued. The opening paragraph of their Prayer is at the heart of all the school shoeboxes of gifts to support the OFTSED report reads, ‘The school provides strives to achieve and ‘its contribution to ‘Operation Christmas Child’ project, they a good standard of education in a caring, the pupils’ understanding of the Catholic life have collected money to send to a school family-like environment’. Parents and of the school is paramount’ (R.E. inspection in the Philippines and to support the carers are overwhelmingly positive and report 2010). Pupils experience and are work of CAFOD. their views are summed up by the involved in a wide range of forms of following comments, “It’s a fantastic worship. Children are encouraged to The success of Cathedral school is school and the teachers are very helpful” prepare and lead acts of worship in key reflected in their growing numbers. Only a and, “There is a wonderful sense that stage two and opportunities are provided few years ago there were five mixed age children and parents belong to the family for children to lead and participate in classes but they now have seven classes. of the school.” voluntary daily lunchtime prayer such as Additional support is put into each class the Rosary in October and May, ‘Journey to and this, combined with focused, If you would like to arrange to visit Bethlehem’ in Advent and ‘Stations of the differentiated teaching, ensures that the Cathedral school and experience for Cross’ in Lent. ‘Worship is fun’ one Year 3 needs of every child are addressed and yourself their ‘caring, family-like pupil told the R.E. inspector and ‘pupils children make good progress, whatever environment’ you can contact Miss Martin's are introduced to the rich heritage of the their ability. Goddard on 01524 64686 or visit their The Funeral Directors Catholic Church’s prayer life through regular website at www.cathedral.lancs.sch.uk for 188, Brow, Ashton-on-Ribble, Preston 1, Stonebridge Parade, Preston Road, Longridge Mass with the parish, with adoration of the The children of Cathedral school have a more information. 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 Step Out with Youth

uth Corless, Director of Youth Services in the Diocese young people through their being together. Even bigger a Rreports “Looking for feedback in our work with young people surprise was none of these activities involved computers or is not something we consciously seek to do. It is the relationship workstations, rather board games nights and sharing – the with young people over what might be years that produces and sense of community and belonging all of us seek to share and shows the fruit of this work.” It is encouraging however, when experience in Parish life. Please be encouraged to step out and feedback does come whether you look for it or not. It helps work with young people in all sorts of ways. You can and will hold a sense of direction and a sense of reassurance. make a difference.

Over a couple of input days last year with members of parishes Networking events from Cumbria Deanery, the Youth Service explored opportunities Following a gathering of volunteers in November the Youth for working with young people in local parishes. A handful of Service will be setting up regular opportunities for those working committed individuals attended and contributed to the with young people to come together. These days will provide an discussion, however it was the willingness to act on suggestions, opportunity for sharing, support and input. The next meeting ideas and sharing that has proved fruitful in the individual coincides with the National Congress on March 12th and we parishes and in turn, the lives of young people. One youth group encourage all those interested to consider travelling to London that started from a “hunch” of needing to do something decided with us. For future information, dates and venues please log on to meet once a month and gently encouraged the young people. to our website www.lancastercatholicyouth.org.uk This month we The next step involved reviewing the frequency of the meetings look forward to welcoming Families to Castlerigg for a Family in line with available volunteers and perhaps some consideration Weekend. As well as opportunities to spend some quality family of a “programme” to allow some structure and direction to the time, there will be time to reflect, pray, enjoy the company of regular meetings. The individuals who stepped out have been others and take time out together. You can contact Ruth Corless encouraged to see the commitment and enjoyment from the by email [email protected] www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk February 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 11 CaringCaringCaringSharing andSharing Wheelchair Tag Rugby SharingSharing CaringCaring pupils from Christ the King 10School Preston enjoyed a Wheelchair Tag Rugby session for pupils with Special Educational Needs on 23rd November.

10 pupils were involved in the session to learn new skills and access new opportunity. Phil Roberts and Steve Mort delivered the session which the pupils thoroughly enjoyed and played with such enthusiasm. The session was observed by Ofsted HMI who were visiting Preston to see ‘good practice’ delivery of inclusion provision for our pupils across Preston. HMI was very impressed and gave positive feedback about the session and the school as a whole in terms of our engagement in inclusive programmes through our School Sport Partnership.

Many thanks to Liz Dawson from the Preston School Sport Partnership for organising such an enjoyable event. Knights Celebrate Serve God by Serving Others

hitehaven Knights of St. Columba held a Christmas Party Wfor their widows and senior citizens at St. Mary’s Church Kells. It was attended by over 80 guests including His Worship the Mayor Councillor Michael McVeigh and his wife the May- oress, as well as Priests and Deacons of the Deanery. Enter- tainment was provided by St. Benedict’s school music group.

The Order of the Knights of St. Columba exist to support the mission of the Roman Catholic Church and at the same time to work for the spiritual, intellectual and material welfare of Established 1839 • Memorials • Renovations • Lettering • Marble • Granite its members and their families, and in particular to help • Slate • Stone of all kinds, colour & designs • young people to develop in the likeness of Christ. These are Wray Brothers are long established monumental masons achieved through the fundamental virtues of: Charity, Unity highly regarded for quality of their workmanship and and Fraternity. John Doran personal service. Traditional Hand Cut Letters Proprietors: S. A. Edwards, M. A. Edwards, G. Edwards 51a Layton Road, Layton, Blackpool FY3 8EB Tel/Fax: 01253 392620 t Mary’s College, Blackpool held a week of fundraising Sevents in October to raise money for CAFOD’s Pakistan appeal. Members of ACTIVATE, the school’s faith and justice group, handed over a cheque to CAFOD Diocesan manager Rosa Trelfa for just over £1,300. The final amount collected was £1,419.82. The money will help transform the lives of people left devastated by flooding in Pakistan.

Our Lady’s Catholic College Lancaster Interform Cross Country

t was a successful start to this year’s inter-form challenges. IThere were some outstanding performances in all the year hildren from St. Edmunds Carlisle, Sunday Liturgy groups, but the most noticeable was Declan Wilkinson in year CGroup with the shoe boxes full of ‘goodies’ they 8 who set a new course record and has been selected for the collected for Operation Christmas Child. inter-schools cross country at Ripley St Thomas High School. 12 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + February 2010 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk Diocese Diocese Diocese DioceseDioceseAround the DioceseDioceseDiocese The Catenians 40 Years of helping hand

tefan Wawszczyk, a parishioner of St Bernardette's, SLancaster, went to Tanzania earlier in January to work for six months as a volunteer teaching English to underprivileged children in a Jesuit Mission. Meeting his expenses has been Hospitality helped significantly by a grant of £600 from the Bursary Fund of the Catenian Association.

The Catenians, an organisation of Catholic men, seek to combine orty years ago the ladies of St Peter’s Lytham decided to a social life among their members' families with charitable works Fhave a Christmas Party for all those over 60 years of age in such as the Bursary Fund for young Catholics undertaking the Parish. “There were around 100 members in 1970 but we are projects such as Stefan's. If readers know of young people who down to around 20 members now” said Maureen Newsham, a might qualify for help, or who might themselves be interested in founder member. getting to know more about the Association, they are welcome to contact Cliff Wilkinson by phone01524-732125 or email To help celebrate their birthday the group were pleased to [email protected] welcome Bishop Campbell to lunch at the Clifton Arms Hotel Lytham just before Christmas. “The group meet each Wednesday afternoon and new members are always welcome” said Maureen. President of North Circle, Cliff Wilkinson, Two other founder members are still active within the group, Mrs presenting the cheque to Stefan, watched by Provincial President Tom Ibison. Joan Green and Mrs Mattie Simpson. Well done Lytham!

Celebration

n the 12th October St.Winefride’s House, Bispham, home St Winefride’s Ofor retired priests celebrated the 25th anniversary of it’s opening with a Mass of Thanksgiving celebrated by Bishop Campbell and resident priests.

Celebrates All patrons of the House received a commemorative card depicting St.Winefride and including a prayer for vocations. They were also remembered in the Mass together with Winifred 25 Years Place who donated the original site, together with past residents, friends and staff, including the Sisters who looked after the house in the early days. www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk February 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 13

atThanksgiving St Joseph’s Cockermouth

n Friday 19th November, exactly Mountains may Fall’ there was an account ‘Brother, sister, let me serve you; let me be a fresh, white cloth was placed on it. Oone year after floods devastated the of a rescue by lifeboat from a flooded as Christ to you’. Before the final blessing, prayers of town, people in Cockermouth came to- home. Then, to a background of gentle were introduced by gether at St Joseph’s Catholic Church to music, a slideshow revealed the events of After a reading from St Paul’s Letter to the representatives of all the churches give praise to God for the flood the past year, beginning with the torrent Ephesians (1:3-14), the Bishop spoke of in Cockermouth. recovery. For the parishioners of which engulfed so much of the town the hope that exists where there is faith St Joseph’s it was an opportunity to (including St Joseph’s Church), moving on and togetherness. He said that sometimes Everyone was invited to stay for drinks and celebrate being back in their own to the aftermath when the main street it is adversity which brings to birth the there was a cake, generously donated and church after its restoration and to looked like a giant building site, and finally hope that lies within us. Like the exiled decorated with the words ‘A Big Thank You thank the vicar and parishioners of showing the signs of new life – buildings people of God in the Old Testament whose to Churches Together, 19 November, 2009 – Christ Church (C of E) for the use of restored, spring flowers appearing, lambs faith, trust and courage allowed them 2010’. In spite of other events in the town their church every weekend over in the fields. There were scenes of the to rise up and continue, the people of that evening (including a concert and the many months. rescue and relief services in action and Cockermouth are returning from exile full BBC filming ‘Children in Need’) many people glimpses of the many ordinary people who of hope for the future. took up the invitation. They stayed to talk The service, led by parish priest Fr Peter reached out to others, including those about the town’s recovery, the goodness Sharrock and attended by Bishop Michael who worked so tirelessly as volunteers The service continued with more hymns, of people and “the love no flood can Campbell, proved to be a moving and with Churches Together at the Flood accompanied by a group of young quench, no torrents drown” (Song of Songs inspiring journey from heartache to hope. Relief Centre. Fittingly, the next hymn was musicians. Incense was used for the 8:7) – a quotation printed on the front After the opening hymn ‘Though the ‘The Servant Song’ with its opening line, blessing of the Altar by the Bishop and page of the Order of Service.

Fr Peter Sharrock (parish priest) and Bishop Michael Campbell. 14 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + February 2010 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk SaintsSaintsSaints Saints SaintsSaintsSaints SaintsSaints St Blaise Feast day 3rd February

any legends and stories surround Holy Helpers. St Blaise, as the patron of MSt Blaise as he was one of the most those suffering from throat ailments, is popular saints of the middle ages. He one of these Fourteen Holy Helpers. devoted the early years of his life to the study of philosophy and became a Blasius became one of the most popular physician, which probably accounts for saints of the middle-ages. Because of the the fact that the faithful sought his help miracles he performed devotion to him for and intercession when ill. Ordained a the healing of throat ailments grew priest and made Bishop of Sebaste through the centuries and are still in Armenia, a new persecution of performed today. On his Feast Day, Christians took place under the reign February 3rd, the blessing of St Blaise is of Licinius. Instructed in a vision to go given: two candles are consecrated, to the hills and minister to his flock, generally by a prayer, these are then held Blaise escaped his hunters and took in a crossed position by a priest over the refuge in a cave. heads of the faithful or the people are touched on the throat with them. In other Agricolaus, the regional governor, ordered places oil is consecrated in which the wick men into the hills to hunt Blaise. When his of a small candle is dipped and the throats pursuers arrived at the cave they were of those present are touched with the wick astounded to find it surrounded by wild while at the same time a blessing is given. animals, all suffering from illnesses. Blaise was able to move about, healing them As well as being invoked against without fear of injury. Seizing Blaise they afflictions of the throat, St Blaise is the took him back to the governor but even on patron of physicians, sick cattle, wax the journey back he continued to heal chandlers, wool-combers and of wild people and perform miracles in God’s animals because of his care for them. In name. He persuaded a wolf to release a Art he is often depicted holding two poor woman’s pig. Stories relate that the crossed candles in his hand (the Blessing woman was so grateful that she followed of St Blaise), as a bishop with a metal him and brought him food and candles to comb and a tall candle or in a cave dispel the gloom of his dark cell while he surrounded by wild beasts. was imprisoned.

As he was being led to prison, a mother set her only son, choking to death of a Church Supplies & Services fish-bone, at his feet, and the child was Prayer in honour cured straight away. It is because of this miraculous healing that he is considered of St Blaise Church Pews Uncomfortable? to be the patron of throat ailments. Why not try On the governor’s instruction he suffered O GOD, deliver us through various forms of torture (some illustrations the intercession of Thy top quality upholstered foam pew cushions? show his flesh being ripped with iron combs). Safefoam, Green Lane, Riley Green, holy bishop and Hoghton, Preston PR5 0SN However, even the terrible cruelties could www.safefoam.co.uk not make him renounce his faith and he Blaise, from all evil of Freephone 0800 015 44 33 Free Sample Pack of foam & fabrics sent by first clss mail was beheaded in 316. In the Holy Wars, his soul and body, especially When phoning please quote LV101 were dispersed over Europe and his was increased by many from all ills of the throat; miraculous cures, especially of sore and and grant us the grace to diseased throats. make a good confession There is a group of fourteen saints known in the confident hope of as the ‘Fourteen Auxiliary Saints’ or Holy obtaining Thy pardon, Helpers. During times of illness or death, people turn to God with prayers and and ever to praise with petitions. During the 14th century this worthy lips Thy most was especially true as plague swept across holy name. Europe causing painful and sudden death. Consequently, many people missed receiving the final Sacraments and Through Christ Our Lord. sought the intercession of saints known individually for helping with different Amen. symptoms of the plague. Devotion was thus established to a group known as the

Example of candles as described above. www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk February 2010 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 15 Everything we do shows our love for others and our Father in heaven. “Let your light shine before others, so that they may

see your good works and give glory to your“

Father in heaven. Matthew chapter 5

There are lots of ways of to Why not colour the pictures in and enter details of let your light shine: what you have done to make your light shine. • Helping others, washing up, tidying your room, walking the dog.

• Making friends, asking someone to join in your game, saying sorry.

• Remembering to say your prayers, for your family and friends and those less fortunate.

• Being patient and kind to

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Call Angela Norris MA, BA(Hons) 01253 811691 or visit www.beautiful-words.co.uk Imagery sourced from Cafod. from sourced Imagery 16 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + February 2010 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk

Pictured from left to right: Helen Smith, Danielle Shiels, Ben Okafor Students and Flewker-Barker. on Song with Ben

Students from Cardinal Newman and recording songs that reflect a plea 10College met former child soldier for justice and truth. Ben Okafor at the Global Student Forum (GSF) in Liverpool last week November. “Ben helped us to realise how important education is to children’s lives, and how it The Mission of Global Student Forum is can be life changing; sometimes we take our to enable school and college students free education for granted and this shouldn't to critically explore contemporary be the case as there are people in the world 72 million children are denied the basic workshops for their peers in college, to development issues; and their role as who are in desperate need of primary human right of a primary education. It help pass on their knowledge of the global citizens. It is hoped that the education to help them to survive and was held at the Centre for International poverty that exists around the world, and students will improve their knowledge, flourish.” Danielle Shiels, 18 and Development Education, Liverpool what we can do about it. attitudes and actions as a result; and that Hope University. they will be empowered to work towards “Ben helped us to see how we could Since GSF’s inception in 2005 more than a more just and sustainable world for creatively support the fight against “Ten years ago I was in primary school,” 4,000 sixth formers have attended a everyone. inequality and poverty in today’s world.” Matt Williams, age 18. “At that time world forum – returning to their schools to Helen Smith, 17 leaders signed up to the Millennium inform an estimated 200,000 fellow GSF was started by educational charity Development Goals which stated that by students of key global issues raised Damaris Trust and is funded by UKaid from “Ben helped us see how we could help 2015, children everywhere, boys and girls during the day. the Department for International all those in need who don’t have the alike, will be able to complete a full course Development. GSF is also sponsored by opportunities and lifestyles that we have.” of primary schooling. I discovered how I Cardinal Newman Students who Christian Aid and the Damaris Trust. Adam Flewker-Barker, 17 could play a significant part in achieving attended: Charlotte Booker, Emily Burke, those goals - that young people Lucy Cullen, Adam Flewker-Barker, At the age of 13, Ben fought as a child The first of its kind in the north-west, GSF, everywhere really can make a difference.” Rachel Gowdy, Grace McBride, soldier in Nigeria. He is now an featuring multi-media presentations, Danielle Shiels, Helen Smith, internationally-acclaimed artist, writing workshops and live music, analysed why Newman students will be running Charlotte Thompson and Matthew Williams.