Catholic News Nottingham April 2023

Cardinal Nichols gives Loyal Address to King Charles III

Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster, has given a Loyal Address to King Charles III ahead of his coronation in May.

The full text is below:

Your Majesty,

On behalf of the Catholic community in England and Wales, I thank you for the privilege of offering you this expression of our highest esteem for Your Majesty and our assurance of loyalty to you in your service of our nations.

In doing so I assure you that there remains in our hearts a most special place for our late Queen Elizabeth. She is remembered in our prayers, with thanksgiving to God for the remarkable and unique role she played not only in the great events of the last 95 years but also in the lives of so many individuals and communities. We pray that she now has an everlasting place in heaven, embraced by the splendour and glory of God, to whom she was so devoted.

MORE THAN 24 YEARS OF MORE THAN 24 YEARS OF BRINGING THE BRINGING THE NOTTINGHAM DIOCESE TOGETHER TOGETHER

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St Mary’s Catholic Voluntary Academy in Derby has been graded ‘Good’ with ‘Outstanding’ features by Ofsted

Behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management and early years provision at the school were all graded ‘Outstanding’ and the quality of education was graded ‘Good’.

The report said that the school’s mission is to unlock all pupils’ potential by “sharing God’s love and making a difference”. Inspectors reported that pupils are keen to play a positive role in their community and make a difference to themselves and others.

Pupils were praised throughout the report and inspectors said they lived up to teachers’ high expectations.

Inspectors said: “Pupils show kindness and respect to each other. Pupils' behaviour and conduct is exemplary. In lessons they learn without distraction. They have confidence that teachers will keep them safe.”

The report said that following the fire, which destroyed the school building in 2020, leaders have expertly managed the school during an unprecedented period of challenge and despite tremendous difficulty, they have kept the school community together.

It was noted that the curriculum is expertly planned. Pupils’ learning is carefully built upon what they know and understand and they often acquire new knowledge that they confidently understand.

“Teachers have good subject knowledge. They use assessment skilfully to check pupils’ understanding. The teaching of reading is a priority. There is a well-planned and sequenced phonics programme in place. Teachers quickly identify pupils who need extra help,” inspectors said.

Children in the early years have an outstanding start, according to the report. It said: “They receive an ambitious

curriculum taught by knowledgeable specialists. Children are completely engrossed in their learning. They understand routines well. They learn to be independent. Children are very well prepared for Year One.”

Ofsted said that staff at the school, which is part of the St Ralph Sherwin Catholic Multi Academy Trust, have worked together as a strong team.

“They feel appreciated and supported. They are rightly proud of their achievements. They are proud to work at the school,” inspectors said.

Emma Farmer, Chair of Governors, said: “As a governing board, we are thrilled with the judgement that has been awarded and we would like to warmly congratulate and thank all those involved. It is richly deserved and is evidence of the enormous, ongoing commitment of all staff and pupils in our school community. Their drive in the most unique and challenging of circumstances has been phenomenal.

Kevin Gritton, Chief Executive Officer of the St Ralph Sherwin Catholic Multi Academy Trust, said: “It is testament to the drive and

Continued from page 1

Your Majesty, we rejoice in your Accession. For so many years we have observed your desire and unstinting efforts to explore and enhance the well-being of the entire human family, through your commitment to religious faith, to the protection of the environment, to the relief of poverty, to the promotion of beauty in architecture and living conditions, and your steadfast opposition to religious persecution.

Your Majesty, at this solemn moment I wish to assure you that the Catholic community is

FRANKLY SPEAKING FRANKLY SPEAKING

Earlier this year a very successful British company gave time and space to publicly admit some failure instead of promoting its success.

The area of “failure” was not lack of sales or financial profit, but its number of employee’s who had suffered injury despite a mission statement on health and safety. The company regards itself as a worldwide “family” but now freely admits on safety it is time to act in a different and more human way.

In last months article I gave reference to all the missionary activity of our Church. This is often conducted in areas of the world which are highly dangerous and last year 18 missionaries were to lose their own life whilst serving communities living in poverty not least the plight of many children. Despite all these dangers we read of the many vocations to the priesthood or consecrated life by those

who not only proclaim the Gospel but live their lives assisting in providing food and medicine to those in greatest need. In these days of natural disasters their health and safety guide will incorporate a mission that all of Faith do the work of God.

So as Western Europe copes with fewer vocations what is the way forward? Perhaps like that British company we need to admit our past failures and admit we have got things wrong, even if they are deeply personal.

If this British company prides itself as being a “worldwide family” then so should we even if we are unable to visit many other parishes. David Wells a noted speaker and evangelist now living in Devon spoke recently to a “full house” of the Catholic Community in Nottinghamshire to which I belong. During a weekend retreat he gave simple but highly relevant guidance.

David urged his congregations to be proactive as we look to the future. “Life’s challenges are personal and we need to start our journey of change with ourselves.” Groups then were given time to share their own opinions and experiences. These proved to be both valuable and what is perhaps more important actually interesting.

David’s most important message was a reminder that we are ALL “Easter People” which enables us to be emboldened by “God’s generous love to strengthen our resolve in facing life’s challenges. Working and sharing together is surely our way forward.

A Happy Easter to all readers.

FrankGoulding Holy Trinity Pariah Newark

determination of Mrs Greaves and her team, to continue to provide the best education for all of the children, that has led to such a glowing Ofsted report.

“I was proud to hear inspectors talk about the ambition for all of the pupils and all of the disruption never being used as an excuse to offer anything other than the best education possible for our children. We can now look to an exciting future in a biophilic building and children continuing to receive a first rate education.”

St Mary’s is currently based at St James House, in Mansfield Road, Derby, and is expected to move to a new, innovative environmentally friendly school building in Broadway at the end of 2023.

profoundly supportive of these fundamental concerns. We strive to offer to our society, Your Kingdom, an education to young people that is rooted in faith and its consequent commitment to human dignity, expressive of service to those most in need and inspired by a vocational call to contribute to the common good and a shared prosperity.

Our faith demands that we have a particular concern for the fate and future of those fleeing violence and poverty, for those trapped in human trafficking and modern slavery, for those dedicated by their profession to the service of the sick and poor, among whom are many Catholics from numerous countries of the world. The Catholic community in our nations today draws together and holds together in a common faith people from different nationalities, languages, cultures and customs, helping them to find a settled way of life here and to be generous contributors to the common good. Our parishes and communities are places of rich human diversity, outreach and profound communion.

When you addressed faith leaders in September last year, you told us that 'the beliefs that flourish in, and contribute to, our richly diverse society differ. They, and our society, can only thrive through a clear collective commitment to those vital principles of freedom of conscience, generosity of spirit and care for others which are, to me, the essence of our nationhood.' These are values that the Catholic Church holds dear indeed.

Your Majesty, as you approach the solemn moment of your Coronation, and in all the kingly service that you will continue to give in the years to come, I assure you, with great confidence, of the support and prayers of the Catholic community in England and Wales. May God bless Your Majesty and your Queen Consort, preserve you both in health of mind and body and grant you every grace and blessing now and for the years to come.

HE Cardinal Vincent Nichols

Delicious Heart

Shaped Biscuits

A service of thanksgiving

During the weekend of 4 March, a group of polish young scouts got baking in their kitchens to produce beautifully presented homemade biscuits to sell to the parishioners at the Good Shepherd Church to raise funds for those struggling in the Ukraine conflict. The St Casimir heart shaped biscuits were

delicious and very well received. A wonderful tradition, thank you for sharing it with us. Greatly appreciated, God bless.

Submitted on behalf of the Good Shepherd Church, Woodthorpe

CAFOD Big Lent Walk: Lincoln

The Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD) is an international development charity, the official aid agency of the Catholic Church in England and Wales and part of Caritas International. The Big Lent Walk is a new annual event organised by CAFOD to raise money to fight global poverty and challenges individuals or groups to complete 200km in 40 days. In the Nottingham Diocese, CAFOD is aiming for one short community walk to take place in each Deanery during Lent and people from the Northern Lincolnshire Deanery were invited to participate in the first of these walks by meeting at Hartsholme Country Park in Lincoln on Wednesday 8th March.

The day started with Mass at St. Peter & St. Paul Church. The Mass, celebrated by Canon Hunton, was offered for CAFOD’s work and volunteers in Lincolnshire. Apart from offering up the day in thanksgiving to God, the Mass also provided an opportunity for people who could not join in the walk to still be a part of the event. After refreshments in the parish centre and a short car journey to the park we commenced the walk. The route, which featured on the television show ‘Walks Around Britain’, is approximately 5 kilometres and took in both Hartsholme Country Park and the adjoining Swanholme Lakes.

Hartsholme Country Park covering over eighty hectares of ground, was established in 1974 and comprises Victorian landscaped

gardens, grasslands, woodlands and a reservoir. It has a children’s play area, campsite, visitor centre and on site cafe. Swanholme Lakes which is adjacent to Hartsholme Country Park was designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in 1985 and was subsequently declared a local nature reserve, by the City of Lincoln Council, in 1991. It covers an area of sixtythree hectares, within which you find sandy heath, bog, grassland, woodland and lakes, supporting different plants, birds, amphibians, reptiles and many invertebrates such as dragonflies, butterflies and bees.

In addition to the walk we stopped at a nearby pub/restaurant for lunch and warmed up next to an open fire; perfect for the weather which had turned colder. Afterwards a shorter return journey took us back to the car park. An enjoyable day, it provided a lovely opportunity to learn more about CAFOD and its work.

With special thanks to Will Cruddace, Community Participation Coordinator for CAFOD (Nottingham) for organising the day and enabling a number of us to share a small experience of the Big Lent Walk. Who knows, maybe it will have inspired someone to want to take on the full challenge next year!

If you would like to learn more about the work of CAFOD or make a donation, in support, visit: www.cafod.org.uk

On 12th March at St Hugh’s Church in Lincoln, Fr Jarosz, parish priest, led the City of Lincoln Civic Service, an annual service of thanksgiving. In attendance were members of the Civic Party: Mayor of Lincoln, Councillor Rosanne Kirk, City Sheriff, Mrs. Jasmit Phull JP and their consorts, together with members of the city council and guests from other local authorities. Parishioners were also present.

The service consisted of readings, prayers and hymns, with assistance from the choir of St Peter and St Paul Voluntary Academy. An address by Rev. Sian Wade, a member of Transform Lincoln (whose mission is to facilitate Christians within local churches, organisations, workplaces and communities, to collaborate in pursuit of the spiritual, social and cultural transformation of Lincoln City) reminded us that God hears the cries of the needy and asks us, His people, to also hear them and respond on His behalf, whilst, Rosanne Kirk, Mayor of Lincoln, gave a word of thanks and spoke of the many blessings she has experienced as a result of her role.

Afterwards everyone was invited into the parish hall for refreshments.

Inspired by the service, may we each heed the promptings of St Paul “I urge . . . that petitions, prayers, intercessions and thanksgiving be made for all people - for kings and those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2) and pray for all who hold positions of authority, including the members of the Civic party as their time in office comes to an end (the Civic year runs May to May). Let us pray too, for our young people who have been/will be called into the vocation of public service, that they will follow their call whilst remaining true to their primary vocation, the call to holiness, and so contribute to the building up of Gods Kingdom of justice and peace in our towns and cities.

With thanks to all involved for a stirring service and joyful social gathering.

Around our diocese

Source - Twitter photos

It was a great privilege to host Fr Colin Patey and his wife Cindy at Bishop’s House to celebrate with Mass and lunch the 25th Anniversary of Fr Colin’s priestly ordination within the Catholic Church and as a member of the diocesan presbyterate. Ad multos annos

A prayerful celebration of the Ministry of Reader for Sam Garrity (Holy Souls, Scunthorpe) Andrew Wakley (St Mary’s, Grantham) and John Wynne-Higgins (St Philip Neri, Mansfield) as they continue their formation and discernment to be ordained for the Permanent Diaconate

Good luck to St Charles Catholic Primary Voluntary Academy Leicester girls football team - currently playing in the snow!

A brilliant atmosphere in Wembley Arena for ‘Flame’ with 8,000 young people and among them around 200 from our diocese

Pancake Day celebration

A huge thank you to the many families, friends and parishioners of the Good Shepherd Church, Woodthorpe who came to join in our wonderful Shrove Pancake Day celebration. A special thank you to all who made this possible, enjoyed the delicious pancakes while chatting with friends and family.

Submitted on behalf of the Good Shepherd Church, Woodthorpe.

"Get involved and make a difference" says Fr Jonathan Cotton

By Fr Jonathan Cotton, Will Cruddace & the CAFOD Volunteer Team

My change in ministry, since retiring as a parish priest, has seen me responding to requests from parishes and schools far and wide around the great expanse of our Diocese. Celebrating weekend Masses when priests are ill, or awaiting a more permanent assistant priest or having a long-awaited holiday, or when there are simply just not enough priests to cover all the weekend Masses, I have soon realised that there is never a dull moment even for a priest in retirement.

On the occasional call to celebrate school Masses, it was clearly noticeable what an influence the work of CAFOD has in our schools. Noticing CAFOD fundraising

events, wall displays, special assemblies, and so on, promoting the Social Teaching of the Church and how to be a good Samaritan to the poorest on our common home of earth, made me realise what a crucial role CAFOD has in forming missionary hearts and minds in our Church communities. So, when I was invited to be a School Volunteer for CAFOD, visiting five local Catholic Primary Schools and one Secondary School, it did not take me long to say “yes”, especially as CAFOD provides all the training, resources and support I need for the volunteering. Being a school volunteer is only one of many volunteering opportunities to support CAFOD’s work.

Pope Francis sends a message to young Catholics gathered in London for the 2023 Flame Congress, and urges them to dare to be different as they walk in friendship with Christ.

The event was held 150 days before the 37th World Youth Day—to be held in Lisbon, Portugal, on 1-6 August 2023—under the theme “Rise Up!”, an echo of the WYD Scripture passage: “Mary arose and went with haste”.

Set free by the Gospel Pope Francis sent his greetings and encouragement to participants in the youth rally on Saturday.

In a message signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, the Pope assured the young Catholics of his “spiritual closeness” and prayed that “Almighty God will richly bless their time together”.

‘Dare to testify to Christian ideals’

Pope’s message to young UK Catholics at 2023 Flame Congress

He expressed his hopes that “through adoration, music, testimonies, and the sharing of friendship with Christ and with one another, all present will grow strong in faith and love and bear witness courageously to the Gospel message that sets us free.”

Beauty of generosity

The Pope also urged them to hasten to respond to the Lord’s call to follow Him, as did Mary the Mother of God.

“Dare to be different [and] point to ideals other than those of this world, testifying to the beauty of generosity, service, purity, perseverance, forgiveness, fidelity to our personal vocation, prayer, the pursuit of justice and the common good, love for the poor, and social friendship.”

Pope Francis wrapped up his message by entrusting the young English and Welsh

Catholics and their families “to the intercession of Our Lady of Walsingham” and offered them his “blessing as a pledge of wisdom, joy, and peace in Jesus the Lord.”

Rising up as young Catholics

According to the event’s website, Flame 2023 is an opportunity to “Rise up after the pandemic, Rise up as young Catholics, Rise

up—as Mary did—for the surprising and beautiful adventure that is our Catholic faith.”

Guest speakers include Filipino-born Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, and Australian-born Archbishop Timothy Costelloe of Perth

vaticannews.va

“Dare to be different [and] point to ideals other than those of this world, testifying to the beauty of generosity, service, purity, perseverance, forgiveness, fidelity to our personal vocation, prayer, the pursuit of justice and the common good, love for the poor, and social friendship.”

Tens of thousands of young Catholics from across England and Wales gathered at the OVO Arena Wembley, in London, for the 5th CYMFed Flame Congress on recently.

Weed while they wait

St Mary’s CV Academy Derby Celebrate Lent Mission Day

Parents can ‘weed while they wait’ for their children at a Derbyshire primary school when its new eco-garden dream becomes a reality.

A ‘flight path’ eco-garden is being created at St Thomas Catholic Voluntary Academy, in Ilkeston, after the school secured £10,000 from East Midlands Airport’s eco-gardens project.

Work is due to start shortly on creating the garden and Headteacher Michael Sellors said everyone was excited to see it come to life.

He said: “The children and staff are looking forward to having an eco-garden where the children can grow their own vegetables and care for local wildlife. We will also have a "weed while you wait" space for parents collecting their children at the end of the day.” The school is one of eight in the St Ralph Sherwin Catholic Multi Academy Trust that was successful in bidding for the funds.

Pupils who make up St Thomas’ Sustainability Squad have all been heavily involved in planning the garden.

Their design was inspired by the flight path maps that show the migration of ducks, geese and swans that visit the local nature reserve, Straws Bridge, and land on the school’s roof. Gemma Shelbourne, a Teaching Assistant at St Thomas who oversees the Sustainability Squad, said: “Our pupils submitted a video where they talked about what we wanted in our eco-garden and that was part of our application. We wanted to bring wildlife in and the inspiration was the ducks that land on our school roof.

“We are all excited to see the plans become a reality. The children have been building bird

feeders and bringing them in, they are really enthusiastic and they keep asking when the garden will be ready.”

It is hoped that work will start shortly on creating the garden and that it will be completed by the autumn. Schools were asked by the airport to submit designs for gardens or green spaces that substantially boost biodiversity and lead to improved wellbeing.

The proposals were evaluated by a panel of experts which included representatives from the airport’s corporate social responsibility team, Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and the parks, green spaces and environmental management team at South Derbyshire District Council.

The submissions were assessed against several criteria. The designs needed to demonstrate how the gardens would make existing space environmentally richer and more diverse, improve biodiversity, stimulate outdoor learning, and have wellbeing benefits.

Jo Pettifer, Sustainability Project Coordinator for the St Ralph Sherwin CMAT, worked with schools on their garden proposals.

She said: “I am delighted that eight of our schools were successful in securing funds. The pupils have worked so hard, carrying out wildlife audits, planning their designs, discussing them with their teachers and filming presentations for the competition. I am so grateful that East Midlands Airport is rewarding all that hard work, what a triumph.”

Singing for Joy

Parishioners of the Good Shepherd Church are constantly exploring avenues of interest to raise much needed funds for church repairs. As a result, a charity event was arranged, the hosting of the combined male voice choirs of the Mansfield district and Radcliffe-On-Trent. Despite the cold weather, warmly wrapped supporters arrived in good spirits to be entertained by these very talented choirs. The delightful evening came to a close following a complimentary glass of wine in the parish centre. A big thank you to all who made this possible, the organisers, those selling the tickets and especially to the choir members who entertained us so beautifully.

Submitted on behalf of Good Shepherd Church, Nottingham

On Tuesday 28th February children at St Mary’s Catholic Voluntary Academy in Derby marked Lent with a special mission day. The mission days have recently been incorporated into the School’s curriculum as part of the Building the Kingdom programme led by Sister Judith Russi. Sister Judith is an inspirational speaker on Catholic education and director of Catholic education charity EducareM.

The day started with each key stage having a time of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in the Chapel. Every class then had a prayer service to ‘bury’ the Alleluia. Children and parents were invited to write their own personal Lenten promises or pledges to include in the service and these were ‘buried’ too.

Each year group was given a liturgical colour, and explored the meaning and symbolism behind it. They created a liturgical calendar using their knowledge of different artistic techniques, and these will be used during RE lessons and class acts of worship.

All classes also worked towards creating a central liturgical calendar for display. This was led by Mrs Scott who is Art subject lead and a talented artist.

The children said “The day was fantastic, I loved sharing what I know already and making my own liturgical calendar.” “ I liked burying the Alleluia to signify that we don’t say it during Lent.” The children are looking forward to their next mission day which will celebrate Pentecost.

Emma Naylor

Livin Living g Theheolology 202 ogy 2023

Friday 16th June - Sunday 18th June 2023

The theme for the weekend will be:

‘The Fu The Fututure of the re the Pe People ople of f God -

The he S Synodynodal Ch al Chururch ch & Ecc Ecclesilesial Et al Ethics’ hics’

Dr. Liam Hayes, Director, Centre for Ecclesial Ethics, Margaret Beaufort Ins琀tute of Theology, Cambridge & priest of Brentwood Diocese

Dr. Anna Abram, Principal, Margaret Beaufort Ins琀tute of Theology, Cambridge

From 5.00pm on Friday 16th June 2023 昀nishing after lunch on Sunday 18th June, the residential cost covers bed and full board (two nights, Friday, Saturday) plus all lectures and plenaries, with access to Ammerdown’s extensive facilities. Cost: £330 single occupancy, £290 p.p for two people sharing.

Non-residential: Covers lectures, plenaries, liturgies, communal living during the day, lunch and evening meal, but does not include bed or breakfast. Cost:

£190

Ple Please em se email ltammerdown@gmail.com wi with th a any en enquirquiries & es for or book booking f form. rm.

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(Nr. Bath) Somerset BA3 5SW

SVP – What We Do

Vinnie Camps

The focus for this month’s SVP article in this series about activity beyond the parish conference focuses on the Vinnie Camps.

The Nottingham diocese is proud to boast the camp at Mablethorpe which is one of seven children’s Vinnie Camps around the country giving supervised activity and fun to youngsters aged between eight and 14 years. Mablethorpe Children's Camp provides an opportunity for children who would not otherwise get a holiday to have an exciting, activity-packed week in the beautiful Lincolnshire seaside town of Mablethorpe. It offers a week of fun, excitement and friendship to boys and girls who may well be in need of a break because of family problems such as unemployment, illness, bereavement or relationship breakdown.

SVP Vinnie Camps have a wonderful heritage: for 100 years they have provided safe, inclusive and caring holidays for children in need of a break.

The Mablethorpe Camp is staffed by dedicated and caring volunteers, offering a high ratio of adult-to-child supervision. This means that each and every child receives a great deal of time and positive attention, perhaps more than some have ever known before. Summer holidays offer, first and foremost, fun and enjoyment. But they also provide an opportunity for respite, new learning experiences and personal growth.

The camp provides an action packed schedule which is highly adaptable to the British weather, including: activities on the beach,

day trips out to fun activities such as swimming and ten pin bowling, team building activities run by Grimsby Town Football Club’s Sports and Education Trust, treasure hunts, Apprentice style challenges, arts and crafts, evening games and trips into town for souvenirs.

Some of the fun can even be life changing as many children try something they’ve never done before – perhaps seeing a wheeling hawk, catching a fish or swimming in the sea. All volunteers and leaders must undergo enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks before being allowed to join our SVP camps.

Set in the scenic location of the Lincolnshire coast the holiday provides enjoyment, friendship and, best of all, wonderful memories.

If you are interested in volunteering to work at the camp or are involved with young people who might benefit from the camp at Mablethorpe please contact Lance Philpott at lancep@svp.org.uk

Blessed Robert Sutton Catholic Voluntary Academy in Burton has been graded as ‘Outstanding’ in all areas by Ofsted

7.30 am Morning Prayer

9.00 am Holy Mass

DAILY: Holy Mass at 9am Adoration and Evening Prayer from 6pm – 7pm

5.45 pm Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Rosary, Adoration, Evening Prayer, Benediction

WEEKLY: Every TUESDAY 7pm – 8.30pm.

The school is one of only three secondary schools in the country to move from ‘Requires Improvement’ to ‘Outstanding’ under the new Ofsted framework.

BIBLE STUDY: A study of the ACTS OF THE

2.30 pm – 3.30 pm: BIBLE STUDY –The Book of REVELATION

LECTURES IN APRIL

Thursday 20th April at 2.30 pm

“St Therese of Lisieux – The little way” (Cyprian Blamires OCDS)

Ascribed Meeting:

Thursday 27th April, 10 am to 12 noon

EASTER TRIDUUM at the Rosmini Centre:

Maundy Thursday at 7 pm: Holy Mass

Good Friday at 3 pm: Solemn Liturgy of the Passion and Death of the Lord Easter Vigil at 8 pm Easter Sunday, 9 am: Holy Mass of Easter Rosmini Centre, 433 Fosse Way, Ratcliffe on the Wreake, Leicester, LE7 4SJ Tel. 01509 81 3078; Mob: 07828781537; aabelsito@hotmail.com

Why not join our ZOOM group from the comfort of your home?

Send us your e-mail and we shall send the link.

Inspectors said that pupils are extremely proud to be part of this “highly ambitious school’ and that leaders have the highest expectations for pupils, who receive a “high quality” education.

The ‘Sutton Way’ was highlighted in the report, which focuses on academic excellence, spiritual development and social excellence and permeates throughout the school.

“Staff meet the needs of all pupils, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, exceptionally well. Staff welcome pupils warmly into school each morning. Relationships between adults and pupils are positive and respectful,” inspectors said.

The report said that pupils behave very well in lessons and around school and that they consistently exhibit the school’s values of kindness, love and respect.

“Pupils feel safe here. They know who to talk to if they have a concern. Poor behaviour and bullying are never tolerated. Pupils are highly

focused in lessons and are keen to participate. They learn well because teaching is very effective. Teachers are highly knowledgeable. Pupils enjoy their lessons and are successful in many subjects,” inspectors said.

Headteacher Laura O’Leary was said to have brought about “phenomenal change” across the whole school since her appointment in 2019.

Inspectors, who visited the school in January 2023, said: “She and her senior team provide exceptional leadership. They lead by example, with sensitive and calm authority. They know what is best for their pupils.”

The curriculum at the school, which is part of the St Ralph Sherwin Catholic Multi Academy Trust, was described as “very broad and ambitious”.

The site at Mablethorpe

Emergency Fundraising at St Peter and St Paul's Church Lincoln

Responding was always the practice at our Church. For as long as I can remember there has been a Response Group, answering calls for support locally, in Europe and worldwide. Christmas 2004 saw an outpouring of goods organised by one of our parishioners which went by container to those who suffered in the Tsunami.

More recently there have been heartfelt donations week by week to those displaced by the Invasion of Ukraine, as well as regular forays to the Polish border by another of our parishioners delivering help and then bringing back to the UK groups of Ukrainians seeking refuge. Now, not leaving these causes behind, there has been a targeted approach to raising funds to aid the CAFOD work by our partners supporting those suffering the loss of home and livelihoods following the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria.

After reading and research, I find that many of the towns so badly affected, although now bearing Turkish names, are the same places we read about in the Acts of the Apostles describing St Paul's missions to set up the early church. Antakya is Antioch. The people there responded to his teaching and stories of Jesus and, discovering new purpose in their lives, laid the foundations for our Christian Catholic Church. We owe them a great deal in the sincerity and simplicity of their caring worship. St Paul was their first bishop and I note from television coverage the current cathedral is still standing. Is it not now our turn to help in the rebuilding of these communities.

From a bubbling up of concern at the sheer scale of suffering and loss caused by the earthquake disaster came a real zeal to do something to help. Almost immediately, CAFOD communications appealed for funds to aid their people already on the ground in both countries so as to ensure a fast response. A Soup and Roll Lunch was quickly organised

for Saturday 25th February and this raised £420 in sales and donations. A weekend Special Second Collection brought in a further £1010 and was followed by a Rich Man Poor Man Dinner on Saturday 4th March where

the sale of tickets, raffle and donations totalled a generous £575. More donations arrived on the Sunday at the Coffee Mornings after both Masses so the Appeal Fund grew and grew.

So many people have donated and supported our aim to reach £2000 from the parish in a great coming together to help those in dire need. A special thanks is due to those who prepared the cooked food and in so many other ways gave of their time and energy to ensure the success of our efforts. What may have seemed a very ambitious idea paid off in the end and the cheque was presented to our Diocesan CAFOD representative, in Lincoln, at the 9.30 am Wednesday 8th. March Morning Mass before we set off on our Lenten Walk in Hartsholme Country Park.

Book Reviews Book Reviews

Journeying Together

By Joseph D Cortis & Pia Matthews £11.95

Product Code: 1921

ISBN NO:9780852316269

www.rpbooks.co.uk

Journeying Together

offers practical information and hints which helped its authors and contributors to accompany someone with dementia. Having 'been there', they know that you don't have the time, energy - or courageto cope with unnecessary complications. Journeying Together, is, therefore, a resource of accompaniment and solidarity on a journey which teaches 'a different kind of loving'.

Let’s Go Home

By Jackie Day £3.95

Product Code: 1937

ISBN NO:9780852316214

www.rpbooks.co.uk

Let's Go Home!

Set 1, Book 12

The Faith in Phonics series aims to complement a school’s existing reading scheme with decodable texts, providing a Christian faith focus. The books will enable young children to read Bible stories for themselves. With adult support, the reflections and questions provided at the end of each story will help children to apply the stories, and their Christian virtues, to their everyday lives, thus reinforcing the school ethos.

A Gift of Joy and Hope

By Pope Francis £16.99

Product Code: 103591

ISBN NO:9781399802826

In this encouraging book, Pope Francis explores the meaning of true joy and offers an inspiring message:even in dark times, the light of hope can shine bright.

The past few years have been extremely challenging, but even in dark times, the light of joy can shine bright. True joy, says Pope Francis, is not a fleeting sentiment or a short-term solution to

suffering; it springs from a solid hope that nothing and no one can take away.

A Gift of Joy and Hope is an invitation to embrace authentic beauty and a reminder to be open to encountering God, even in the midst of challenges. In this inspiring collection, Pope Francis encourages readers to change attitudes that exclude others; to reveal the deep dissatisfaction we all hide; and to overcome life’s challenges with courage and faith. He also challenges readers to hope without pessimism or doubt, to hope even in the midst of anxiety, to recognize the beauty all around us, and to let God show us how to deal with your doubts and fears.

This book aims to encourage readers to look outside themselves and believe that hope is still possible and that joy always has the last word.

Stations of the Cross – Inspired by the Work of SVP

Fr Gerard Bogan

£3.50

ISBN: 9781784697549

www.ctsbooks.org

Walk alongside Jesus in his passion and Cross and be prepared to walk with compassion alongside our suffering brothers and sisters, with these meditations on the Way of the Cross in light of the work of the Society of St Vincent de Paul.

This meditation on the Via Crucis – the Way of the Cross – reflects on Jesus’ suffering through the inspiration of Blessed Frédéric Ozanam and the society he founded to help the poor and those in need: the Society of St Vincent de Paul. Walking alongside Jesus in his Passion and Cross prepares us to walk with compassion alongside our suffering brothers and sisters, to learn to love them as Christ loves them, and to enter more deeply into the mystery of God’s mercy revealed in his holy cross

Handbook of Prayers

Rev James D Socias

£12.95

ISBN: 9781860828140

www.ctsbooks.org

Beautifully illustrated, divided into 20 sections, featuring hundreds of prayers, the Handbook sets out practical ways to grow in your faith, alongside the basic tenets of the Catholic faith.

A comprehensive treasury of Catholic prayers, beautifully illustrated. Over 500 pages of prayers and devotions, including the Order of Mass, can be found in this attractive volume which is divided into 20 sections.

As well as hundreds of prayers, the Handbook includes a chapter “How to be a better Catholic”, setting out practical ways to grow in your faith, alongside the basic tenets of the Catholic religion. For convenience, parallel Latin texts are present alongside the English versions of many of the prayers.

Calvary Through the Eyes of Mary

Helen Pepper

£3.50

ISBN: 9781784695538

www.ctsbooks.org

Stopping with Mary at each of the fourteen locations that mark events in the final days of Jesus’s life, we share her sentiments and bear witness to her sorrow as she suffers alongside her son.

It has been a Catholic tradition through the centuries to meditate on the Stations of the Cross so that it becomes our way of life. Mary, the Mother of Jesus, made that first way of the cross. The stations in this booklet present that viewpoint.

Stopping with Mary at each of the fourteen locations that mark events in the final days of Jesus’s life, we share her sentiments and bear witness to her sorrow as she suffers alongside her son.

As we go deeper into her suffering we will come out of this spiritual journey with a deeper love for Mary, a greater appreciation of what her son did for us, and find an example of how to take up our own cross to follow Christ in a spirit of total love.

John Bradburne

Gerard Skinner

£6.95

ISBN: 9781784697525

www.ctsbooks.org

A Secular Franciscan from Cumbria, Servant of God John Bradburne poured himself out in love for the lepers he served, unwilling to abandon them even to save his life. His legacy offers a striking example of authentic holiness in the modern, conflict-stricken world.

The life of John Bradburne reflects a struggle familiar to many people today: if you want to find God you need to search. Bradburne’s search, his life’s pilgrimage, took him from his

birthplace in Cumbria through India, Malaya, and Burma during his soldiering years, and finally to Africa where he at last found God and his own sacred calling amongst the lepers in Mtemwa, Zimbabwe.

Led by a faith that he often expressed profoundly and poetically, John Bradburne followed the example of Christ, pouring himself out in love of the lepers he served, unwilling to abandon them even to save his own life as the violence of the Zimbabwean struggle for independence closed in around Mtemwa.

Remembered by those who knew him for his humility, simplicity, joy and friendliness, John Bradburne offers a striking example of authentic holiness in the modern, conflictstricken world.

Catechumenal Pathways for Married Life

Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life

£6.95

ISBN: 9781784697501

www.ctsbooks.org

By providing pastoral guidelines for clergy, couples, and those involved in marriage preparation or family ministry, this document is intended to offer support to the local Churches “in thinking about or rethinking their pathways to marriage preparation and pastoral accompaniment during the first years of married life.”

The Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life responds to Pope Francis' request for the Church to offer a better and more thorough preparation of young couples for marriage.

By providing pastoral guidelines for clergy, couples, and those involved in marriage preparation or family ministry, this document is intended to offer support to the local Churches "in thinking about or rethinking their pathways to marriage preparation and pastoral accompaniment during the first years of married life."

"We urge particular Churches to be courageous and embrace a faith-filled perspective, recalling Jesus’ teaching that the works of the Kingdom always begin as a small mustard seed, but that in time they can become large trees offering shelter and protection to those in need.

"By offering younger generations a catechumenal journey of growth toward marriage, the Church shall meet head-on the urgent need to accompany young people toward the fulfilment of what remains one of their greatest “dreams” and among the main goals they set out to achieve in life: to establish with the person they love a firm relationship upon which to build a family."

Our Global Community

African Synod: Unity, fight against poverty, social equality, neocolonialism first main concerns

word and the word realizes its objective and has sense when it is listened to. We need to listen to this word of God to live to receive his divine life.

The Local Ordinary of Kigali Archdiocese lamented that "today there are a lot of means of communication but it is the period that communication is at its lowest stage because we don't listen to each other despite the means of communication that we have."

allows all participants to express their opinions openly and honestly.

The African Synod on Synodality Assembly taking place in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) entered the second working session as Prayers, Reflection, Spiritual Conversation and sharing on Document for the Continental Stage (DCS) remained key items on the delegates' programme.

The first item on the agenda was the Eucharist which was presided over by Cardinal Antoine Kambanda, the Archbishop of Kigali in Rwanda.

The Cardinal opened up the day by reminding the participants of the need to foster listening. He expressed regrets saying, "We don't listen to each other despite the means of communication we have."

Cardinal Kambanda who gave the homily during the morning Holy Mass said "the most precious gift that God gave to humanity is the

After the recap of the experience and process of the previous day, the bulk of the morning of the second working day of the Continental Synodal Assembly was dedicated to the practice of spiritual conversation: the method presented at the beginning of the assembly aimed at fostering listening to the Holy Spirit and mutual listening among the participants.

Introducing the morning's proceedings and providing a guide to reading the DCS was Fr Agbonkhianmeghe Orobator SJ, President of the Jesuit Conference of Africa and Madagascar. He first invited the participants to recognize their common baptismal dignity. Baptism, the Jesuit recalled, "is our founding identity, which qualifies us to participate in the life and mission of the Church, in communion, sharing and dialogue with people of all denominations". He then recalled that the heart of spiritual conversation "is prayer and silence" that

Referring then to the invitation to "widen the space of the tent", Fr Orobator recalled how the image of the tent taken from the book of the prophet Isaiah can be compared to the African Tukul, the house par excellence consisting of a roof, walls and a central pole. Whether it is a tent or a Tukul, "the Churchhouse has no doors that close, but a perimeter that continually widens". It is "a tent, a family where everyone can find a place and a home."

Finally, the Jesuit repeatedly recalled how "this is a time to thank God who has brought us together, guided by the Spirit of God. This is a time to rejoice: let us not allow the weeds to hinder us; let us allow the spirit to lead us forward.

During the afternoon session, 15 spiritual conversation groups presented summary reports of discussions in their respective groups. Various groups proposed unity, fight against poverty, fight against social equality, neocolonialism as some of the priority areas the synod Fathers need to focus on during the synodal process.

The Church as the family of God called to evangelize through formation. A well-formed family will ensure the society is good and grows according to African values.

Bishops appeal for peace as Nigeria stands on 'edge of a dangerous precipice'

Warning of rising tension, the bishops stressed the need for authorities to properly investigate worries about the electionswhich have led to the main opposition groups, Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party, disputing Mr Tinubu's victory and calling for a fresh round of voting.

"In particular, we urge the leaders of political parties to exercise restraint, while we all give INEC (Independent National Electoral Commission) the time to prove that it is still worthy of our trust.

public the results from each polling area suffered severe delays - with thousands of results not being uploaded to the platform.

The electoral observers stated: "The combined effect of these problems disenfranchised Nigerian voters in many areas, although the scope and scale is currently unknown."

The groups vouched for synodal Church as a family of God with defined roles and responsibilities that promote African values and ameliorate the structural governance of the Church family of God by empowering the laity through formation.

Synodality invites us to journey together and not to walk alone by the diversity of our cultures. Africa is called to examine all mechanisms put in place to ensure journeying together is a reality.

Synodality invites us to a profound conversion. This can be achieved through a respect of African values in which the family can play a major role. African voices need to be taken into consideration in the decision making process of the Church.

The groups stressed the need for a family centered understanding of synodality and promotion of African values and a holistic catechism for all.

Catholic bishops have called on Nigerians not to turn to violence following disputes over the legitimacy of the 2023 presidential election which elected Bola Tinubu.

As well as appealing for calm and restraint, a statement from the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria, signed by its president, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, addressed concerns about the credibility of the elections held recently.

In the message Archbishop Ugorji wrote: "We appeal to all Nigerians to remain calm, law-abiding and fervent in prayers."

"At this time, when the nation is standing at the edge of a dangerous precipice, INEC must live above board to avoid plunging the nation into an avoidable crisis."

Addressing concerns over the voting process, the bishops continued: "Unfortunately, the experience of many voters on the Election Day were a far cry from the hitch-free exercise that was repeatedly promised."

According to internal electoral observers, led by Dr Joyce Banda, former President of Malawi, polling stations opened late and a new electronic system designed to make

Writing on behalf of the bishops, Archbishop Ugorji said: "There is, therefore, palpable tension in the air and agitations not just by some political parties but by a cross-section of the Nigerian population. We, therefore, urge the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) to promptly take adequate steps to address the issues of concern in order to

diffuse the tension and in the interest of the common good.

"No matter how long it takes, INEC has to ensure that it does the right thing now to ensure that the sanctity of the collective will of the electorate is not violated, so as to restore the confidence of the citizenry in our government and its institutions. As the saying goes, it is no use running when one is on the wrong road."

According to INEC, Mr Tinubu received 8,794,726 votes, ahead of his main challenger Atiku Abubakar who came second with 6,984,520. For

“We don't listen to each other despite the means of communication we have."

John Newton- ACN

“We appeal to all Nigerians to remain calm, law-abiding and fervent in prayers."

Cross on altar of church in Nigeria © ACN

World Day of Prayer

(previously Women’s World Day of Prayer)

I expect, as you read this, many of you throughout our Diocese will have attended the World Day of Prayer Service in your area. Having been involved for more years than I can remember I was very struck this year by the absolute peacefulness of the Liturgy. The women of Taiwan had prepared the service and I am sure it reflected their own peaceful nature; of course they are living with a Super Power as their neighbour and actually live in a semi-permanent state of anxiety.

The theme of the service was encouragement. Based on St. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians

1:15-19 It also covered topics of protecting and caring for their environment, (Taiwan is a place of great beauty,) discrimination in the work place, lack of access to education, the sacrifice required by the wives and mothers during the Covid Pandemic and the ever present lack of equality and the advantage taken of the women.

The following week we celebrated International Women’s Day, which reminded

me that – the week before – the assembled Church was celebrating women and their ability to cope and be resilient. At the same time praising God and offering amazing encouragement to persevere in seeking God’s will for their lives, and their faith, that God had a hand on their lives and had a plan for them. The challenge to all of us, to encourage and pray for women throughout the world in wholesome progress for themselves and their families. At this moment in time we think about and pray for women in Afghanistan and Sudan and their extreme plight and the difficulties they have in providing for their families when so many of their husbands are dead due to war.

The last Hymn we always sing in the World Day of Prayer Service is – “The day though gavest Lord is ended”. One of the lines “and hour by hour fresh lips are making thy wondrous doings heard on high” It never ceases to amaze me that once a year, for 38 hours, the time it takes for the entire world to experience a day from dawn in Western Samoa and Tonga in the Pacific Ocean to dusk in American Samoa. It is a huge movement of prayer and a privilege to be part of it. The service is celebrated around the world, and in turn reminds me that every 24 hours Mass is also being celebrated hour by hour in order to Praise and Thank God for His wondrous doings.

2-in-1 Crossword

by Axe

You can use both sets of clues to solve the puzzle: the solutions are the same.

CRYPTIC Across

7 Henry tracks Tolkien's mine to reach Solomon's temple (6)

8 Awful creature! (6)

9 Acre in Alaska's fine, in retrospect, for Hebrew port (4)

10 He came back after nudge, one by a spirited lass (8)

11 This book's dull...also cut (7)

13 Irish saint's oddly evoking good old Exodus (5)

15 She, unfaithful to the prophet, married raver, it's going round (5)

16 Occupation Ulster's withdrawn from, coming to an end (7)

18 Psalm setting, before/after? – a tight one (8)

19 Spring fast with hospital department appeal ending (4)

21 One of Cain's descendants turned bad in Paris, taking 17's heart (6)

22 Unwanted buildup of swabbies, one on top of the other (6)

CRYPTIC Down

1 City that's ultimately shabby, on the other hand is the capital of Kosovo (4)

2 Some versions have this chap meeting Jesus in hero's temple in error (5,3,5)

3 Guy retired after return of writer's block (7)

4 Doctor regularly looks into muscles – they used to read a lot from them (5)

5 Hear old priest's moving 'Hallelujah' (6,3,4)

6 Someone Paul addressed after show, one decked in brown (8)

12 Oxford guy, a leading chap, who's been to Mecca to get David's boy (8)

14 Graduate is, with anger over race, wearing a clerical head covering (7)

17 New report supports pharaoh who killed Josiah (5)

20 Arkwright's circle is embraced by revolutionary dynasty (4)

QUICK Across

7 Mountains where Abraham was told to sacrifice Isaac (6)

8 Deadly; subject to death (6)

9 Variation in spelling of Acre in the OT (4)

10 Infamous son as described in Jesus' parable (8)

11 One of the Synoptic Gospels (7)

13 St ----- of Glendalough, Co Wicklow, d 618? (5)

15 Son of Japheth and wife of Hosea bearing the same name [Gen] (5)

16 Occupation of the apostle brothers Andrew and Simon Peter (7)

18 Common designation of Psalm 51, set to music by Allegri and others (8) 19 Post-Shrovetide fast (4)

21 Descendant of Cain: 20's father (6)

22 Fearsome person: kind of sauce (6)

QUICK Down

1 Archbishopric second only to Canterbury in importance in the C of E (4)

2 Popular name of a Pharisee, possibly, who hosted Jesus in Bethany (5,3,5)

The Good Shepherd & St. Anthony’s Palm Sunday to Holy Saturday

2nd - 9th April, ad 2023

Palm Sunday: Holy Mass at the usual times . Vigil Saturday at 6.00 pm; Sunday, 8.00 am, 9.45 am †, 11.15 am at St. Anthony’s and 5.30 pm.

† Parish Solemn Entrance into the Mystery of Holy Week beginning in the Marian Hall with + Blessing of Palms and Procession through the Great West Door of the Church

(The symbol of entry into the Heavenly Monday & Tuesday:

Holy Mass at usual times with the addition of the Sacrament of Penance / Confessions as listed on next page.

(Refer to the Parish Newsletter for details.)

Spy Wednesday

11.30 am Mass of the Sacred Chrism at the Cathedral Church - The City.

6.30 pm Holy Mass at the Good Shepherd. The Sacred Triduum

Maundy Thursday

6.00 pm Mass for Maundy Thursday: At St. Anthony’s, Calverton.

8.00 pm Mass of the Last Supper : The Good Shepherd Reception of the Holy Oils. Mandatum (Washing of Feet) Watching until 11.45 pm Night prayer and closure at midnight.

Good Friday. A Day of Fast & Abstinence.

9.30 am Tenebrae (Office of Vigils & Morning Prayer.)

10.30 am Good Friday Liturgy for Children

3.00 pm Solemn Commemoration of the Lord’s Passion. Liturgy of Word. Veneration of the Cross. Distribution of Holy Communion.

6.00 pm Stations of the Cross & Veneration at St. Anthony’s, Calverton

7.30 pm Stations of the Cross and Veneration. Holy Saturday

9.30 am Tenebrae (Vigils & Morning Prayer for Holy Saturday.)

10.30 am Swieconka - Traditional Polish Blessing of Easter Breakfast.

8.00 pm The Easter Vigil.

Gather outside for the blessing of the fire & preparation

Of the Paschal Candle procession & The “Exultet” with Vigil Mass. Easter Day.

(Begins the Octave to Easter Saturday) - 11th April. Holy Mass at 8.00 am, 9.45 am., & 5.30 p.m. at The Good Shepherd Church St Anthony’s Calverton 11.15 am.

3 Meeting of a knightly order (7)

4 Pulpits or reading desks in early Christian churches (5) 5 English translation of 'Hallelujah!' (6,3,4)

6 Citizen of an NT Roman province (8)

12 Fourth son of David (8)

14 Cap worn commonly by RC clerics (7)

17 Pharaoh, the slayer of Josiah at Megiddo (5)

20 Captain for 40 days and nights (4)

SOLUTION

Patricia