Blessed Carlo Acutis: Touching the Heart of Wales
This powerful symbol of Carlo’s deep devotion to the Eucharist resonated profoundly with people of all ages and backgrounds, uniting them in a vibrant Eucharistic revival
Across the Archdiocese of Cardiff-Menevia, spanning South and Mid Wales and Herefordshire in England, the recent pilgrimage of Blessed Carlo Acutis relic sparked a profound renewal of faith among the faithful, especially the young people. Blessed Carlo, a remarkable teenager whose holiness and inspiring life continues to captivate hearts worldwide will be canonised on April 27, 2025 in Rome as the first Millenial saint.
The precious relic—the pericardium of Carlo's heart—was personally brought from Assisi, Italy, by Monsignor Anthony Figueiredo, Director of International Affairs for the Diocese of Assisi, accompanied by his dedicated team, Gwen Wiseman, also based in Assisi and Jacqui Stacey, UK Carlo Acutis National Apostolate. This powerful symbol of Carlo’s deep devotion to the Eucharist resonated profoundly with people of all ages and backgrounds, uniting them in a vibrant Eucharistic revival.
The pilgrimage opened at the Metropolitan Cathedral of St David in Cardiff, warmly welcomed by Canon Michael Doyle. Archbishop George Stack presided over the opening Mass to a packed church attended by the faithful primarily students from Catholic secondary schools from across the region. During his heartfelt homily, Archbishop Stack recounted Carlo’s heritage and his connections to Britain—born in London in May 1991 and baptised at the Parish of Our Lady of
Dolours on the Fulham Road, under the pastoral care of the Servite Friars. He fondly joked that had Carlo's family remained in London, "maybe Carlo would have been a Chelsea fan!" He also revealed an intriguing yet little-known additional fact about Carlo’s family ties to the UK—Blessed Carlo’s paternal grandparents lived in the capital and were married in Westminster Cathedral in 1963, strengthening further the link between this blessed youth and the British Isles. After the opening Mass, Monsignor Figueiredo joyfully encouraged all students "Go home and tell your parents, we met a saint today!"
This opening Mass set the scene for the next four days of prayer, retreat and renewal to the Eucharist. The days were marked by Masses, individual blessings with the relic, Eucharistic adoration, praying the rosary, and multiple opportunities to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation. Throughout the pilgrimage, the faithful were invited to write their petitions to Carlo. Indeed, all the petitions from each place visited were brought back to Assisi and will be placed at the Tomb of Blessed Carlo to continue to ask for his intercession.
Each place of pilgrimage revealed stories of hope and ignited powerful personal testimonies. Students from St David's College, Cardiff shared what Carlo meant to them. One young woman, who had only recently discovered Blessed Carlo, admitted she doesn't often attend Mass but expressed a newfound inspiration to return with her
parents to the evening Mass to learn more about this "saint in the making." Others were particularly moved by Carlo's innovative use of technology to evangelize, especially through the website he created on Eucharistic miracles. "He is relatable. He is like us," they remarked. "Not a saint from centuries ago."
A particularly moving testimony came from a 17-year-old who explained he is the only practicing Catholic in his family. Ten months ago, he fully embraced Catholicism, deciding to follow Jesus. Now, inspired profoundly by Carlo's example, he is actively discerning a vocation to the priesthood. Just like Carlo did with his parents, there was a profound sense of the young people becoming beacons of hope to lead their families back to Church.
Continued on page 4
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Gwen Wiseman
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Fr Neil McNicholas has been sharing his perspective 'from the presbytery' since we began publishing in December 2021. Fr Neil had built up a large quantity of sermons over the years which he had published in 13 volumes. He was always keen to share these and we are very grateful to him for doing so. We would like to keep the view 'from the presbytery' and are looking to receive articles from a variety of priests across the country. So if you are a priest who enjoys writing, do please email editor@catholicpost.co.uk.
Here follows an obituary of Fr Neil written by Michael McGeary in the Diocese of Middlesbrough.
Father Neil's life of service commemorated
Father Neil passed away peacefully at the Butterwick Hospice in Stockton on the morning of Friday January 24
The Requiem Mass for Father Neil McNicholas took place at St Mary’s Cathedral on Friday February 14 before his burial in Redcar Cemetery.
Father Neil passed away peacefully at the Butterwick Hospice in Stockton on the morning of Friday January 24.
The night before the funeral his body was received into St Mary and St Romuald’s Church, Yarm, the parish he had served before his retirement in 2023.
Father Neil, who was 76, had been ill in James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough for several weeks before going into the hospice.
Born in 1948, Father Neil grew up in Redcar, originally in the Sacred Heart Parish, and attended St Mary's College in Middlesbrough from 1959 to 1964, when it was the Marist grammar school.
After leaving school he worked for five years as a lab technician with Dorman-Long and ICI and also became involved in the establishment of the new parish of St Alban's in Redcar.
Father Neil spent some time in the seminary at Osterley before working with the Jesuits as a lay-missionary, teaching and coaching sport in Zambia.
He studied at the Jesuits’ Portland novitiate for 18 months, which included working at a parish
on an Indian Reservation in Washington State. In 1978 he left the seminary and spent five years working in the Middle East, where he helped organise the catechetics programme in a community parish, even though Christian churches were officially banned.
He then did a degree in social sciences at the University of South Florida before returning to the Middle East to work.
After coming home in 1988, Father Neil went to Ushaw College to train for the priesthood. He also worked in hospital chaplaincy and joined the religious broadcast team at BBC Radio Cleveland.
He was ordained priest in July 1993 – Bishop John's first ordination for the diocese – and was appointed assistant priest at Christ the King, Thornaby, also serving as a prison chaplain.
In 1995 he became priest-in-charge at St Peter's, South Bank, and was also asked to take on the ministry of port chaplain with the Apostleship of the Sea.
In 1999 he was appointed as parish priest at St Andrew's, Teesville, in addition to his responsibilities at St Peter's, the two parishes eventually being amalgamated in January 2000, along with St Anne's, Eston, two years later. He was also “in-store chaplain” at the local Asda supermarket.
His next posting was to St Hilda’s in Whitby before a move to St Gabriel’s, Ormesby, Middlesbrough, also serving Corpus Christi, Middlesbrough, and St Alphonsus, North Ormesby.
In 2014, he moved to the parishes of St Patrick’s and Christ the King in Thornaby and he served in Yarm until his retirement in 2023. Father Neil was a talented writer and he updated Canon Bob Carson's Centenary History of the Diocese to mark its 150th anniversary and Father Anthony Storey’s History of the Lady Chapel.
He was also a regular contributor to newspapers including the Yorkshire Post and the Catholic Post.
Please keep Father Neil’s family and friends in your prayers.
May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
From the presbytery.............. RIP Fr Neil McNicholas
Father Neil McNicholas, who has died at the age of 76
Have compassion on young people
salesianschools.com
The school will be responding with respect, understanding and affection to the students and trying to keep the normal routines of as a lifebelt in a sea of confusion
Harvey Willgoose died following an incident at All Saints Catholic High School in Sheffield on Monday this week. Within two days it was already a short note on page five of many newspapers and web sites. Just a footnote. Yet All Saints School is forever a changed school and the impact on each member of the school community will be unique, it will be disturbing and throw up many questions.
Where is Harvey now?
Why did it happen?
How do I feel about others involved?
How do I look to my future when life seems so fragile?
What does this mean for me?
Can I be the same at school?
Why do others react differently to me?
What do I do with all these feelings?
Every school community meeting such violence and sadness is extremely vulnerable, from the chair of governors to the youngest year seven pupil. They will need a lot of love, patience, and readiness to learn from this all too common experience.
Last year there were 57 murders involving a knife or sharp objects. 17 of those murders were committed by under 16 year old pupils. There has been a 94% increase in reported knife crimes since 2014. This is an epidemic and a scourge on our youth and education system. It has been a priority for politicians of all parties in recent decades. Commentators point to drugs, to gangs membership, poor parenting and lack of policing. Everyone seems to be worried because they know that the root of the problem is anger and fear. Fear of other people, fear on the streets, fear about bullying. How can any policing, school policy or security system manage such fear and anger without turning our schools and our wider communities into prisons, threatening the peace and innocence of the young? I have no answers.
I do know that All Saints School in Sheffield will be meeting the challenge head on with the wisdom and kindness that has been the hallmark of the school for decades. It is a place
where the young people know that they are loved, a community that they can call a home. But a home that has now been desecrated by an explosion of fatal violence. The school will be responding with respect, understanding and affection to the students and trying to keep the normal routines of as a lifebelt in a sea of confusion. The school will rise again and continue to be a welcome home for so many
young people as it has for decades. The love and dedication of the staff will have been tested and not found wanting through this disaster.
Please keep them all in your prayers and read the reflection below in their name as they move through the challenging weeks ahead.
To the school community at All Saints Sheffield....
Don’t try to make sense of this
Don’t seek reasons or revenge.
In the end some justice will be done
But for now, we need to simply pause
To reverence the passing of a life
To count the years unlived The gift of a life unshared.
The bruising shock of loss
Tremors through a school community Through families and staff
Leaving them weak at the knees
Speechless before such sadness.
May we be able to hold each other
With gentleness and listening hearts.
May we create pools of silence
In which we can sink some of the grief.
May we draw close in sadness
And become a family of faith.
Because we believe beyond words
That we will see Harvey again.
“The ties of love and friendship
Are not broken by death”
In the eyes of the unwise he appeared to die, but he is with God
In the eyes of the unwise he appeared to die, but he is with God
We are told in the Catholic funeral service.
Right now, such words make no sense
Loss is our heartfelt focus.
But we know that in time, All this loss will be caught up
Into the story of cross and resurrection
And we can entrust Harvey to Christ.
But for now, let us feel the hurt and sadness
And hold tight to each other in hope.
Saved by Faith and Miraculous Medal
A young man held position in a muddy and rat-infested first world war trench, alongside his regiment. Around his neck he wore the Miraculous Medal that his mother had given him to wear, shortly before leaving home. It reminded him both of his mother and home, but also of his Faith and of his Heavenly Mother. In the trenches Our Lady became a great comfort to him, a friend and close companion, a shield against the horrors of war, as his fingers grasped the medal in gasps of prayer.
Exhausted, the men were given a short leave, barely enough time to refresh and to return to their positions. Finding a tap, the young soldier took the medal from around his neck and lovingly hung it by the chain around the tap-stand whilst he washed, before hurrying back to his duties.
On returning to the trench, he was shocked to find that he had left his medal behind, hanging on the tap. Risking reprimand or worse, he broke ranks and rushed back to retrieve it, finding it still safely where he had left it. Gasping a grateful prayer of thanks, he put the medal firmly around his neck once more and returned to the trench.
However, In the short time that he had been absent from his trench to retrieve his medal, a grenade had been hurled into his position and all those present had been killed… His search for his Miraculous medal, due to his Faith in Our Lady, had saved his life.
This is a true story, one of faith and love for Our Lady and of her power to intercede for us when she hears our voice calling Her, no matter where we are, or what our difficulty is.
www.crownofthorns.org.uk email:office@crownofthorns.org.uk
David OMalley
Harvey Willgoose
Continued from page 1
After Cardiff, the team moved to the Benedictine Belmont Abbey in Hereford hosted by Abbot Brendan for a special day of retreat filled with Mass, prayer, and reflection in the beautiful grounds of the abbey surrounded by the deep prayerfulness of the Benedictine monks. An extra special visit was made en-route, to the enclosed Poor Clare sisters. Given that their founder, St Clare of Assisi, shares a deep connection with Carlo's hometown, the visit was particularly meaningful, and their prayers for the mission were warmly welcomed.
At the Co-Cathedral of St Joseph in Swansea, Archbishop Mark O'Toole and Canon Benedict Koledoye warmly welcomed the relic. Fr Matthew Roche-Saunders, the newly appointed Director of Vocations and Youth Mission, gave a captivating homily, comparing the pericardium to "bubble wrap" protecting Carlo’s heart—an image symbolizing its preciousness. Fr Matt will also lead the Archdiocesan Cardiff youth on a pilgrimage to Rome and Assisi for Carlo’s canonisation and Jubilee events.
At the Diocesan Shrine of Divine Mercy, the devotion to the Divine Mercy intertwined beautifully with Carlo’s journey. The faithful participated in a moving torchlight procession, Eucharistic adoration, rosary, and the Divine Mercy Chaplet. Confessions remained continuously busy throughout the evening, underscoring the spiritual impact of Carlo’s visit. This visit also highlighted Carlo’s special connection with the devotion to the Divine
Mercy: his canonisation on Divine Mercy Sunday, April 27, 2025, mirrors Pope John Paul II's canonisation on the same feast in 2014 and his passing on its vigil in 2005.
The final day brought the relic to Merthyr Tydfil, home to the UK’s first Catholic school named after Blessed Carlo Acutis. Archbishop Mark O'Toole celebrated Mass in the sports hall with all 750 students, reflecting on the miracles attributed to Carlo and the power of intercessory prayer.
First-class relics of Carlo Acutis have been generously gifted to the Metropolitan Cathedral of St David in Cardiff, the Diocesan Shrine of Divine Mercy in Morriston, and the Blessed Carlo Acutis Catholic School in Merthyr Tydfil, ensuring his continued spiritual presence and inspiration within these communities and where the faithful can continue to request blessings.
Throughout the pilgrimage, the faithful were invited to write their petitions to Carlo. All the petitions from all the places visited were brought back to Assisi and will be placed at the Tomb of Carlo to continue to ask for his intercession.
More relic visits across the UK are scheduled. The next one will be in the Diocese of Newcastle and Hexham (26-31 March). Details will be become available soon.
To end on a quote of Carlo, Archbishop Stack echoed Carlo’s beloved words, "The Eucharist is my highway to heaven," reminding everyone present, "It is our highway too!
Abbott Brendan, Belmont Abbey praying in front of the relic
The faithful in line for veneration and blessing of the relic
The Youth of Swansea and Cardiff going to Rome to witness the canonisation of Carlo Acutis with Archbishop Mark O’ Toole, Monsignor Anthony and Fr Matt Roche-Saunders, Director of Vocations and Youth Ministry
The relic of Blessed Carlo Acutis, the pericardium of the heart.
Ever thought about diaconal ministry?
In February, the Jubilee celebrates the Diaconate. Deriving from the Greek word diakonos meaning to help or support, the role of the Deacon is exactly that. Whether someone passes through the Diaconate on their way to full priesthood (transitional deacons) or is ordained as a permanent deacon, they provide essential help within the parish community.
We asked Deacon David Cross from the Middlesbrough Diocese how he became a permanent deacon.
Deacon David Cross
One of the first questions I asked myself was “why me?” I am a convert to Catholicism, thanks largely to the support and encouragement of my wife
Over a period of around fifteen years I was asked three times, twice by the same person (a deacon) and a third time by someone else (another deacon), if I had ever thought of being a permanent deacon. On the first two occasions I gave family and Job as reasons as to why I couldn’t think about diaconal ministry; young children and a job that demanded long hours and often spells away from home.
By the time I was asked the question for the third time, the reasons I gave as to why I couldn’t consider the diaconate no longer existed. Although we have two sons and three daughters. The youngest would have been around 11. I also had a different job which demanded fewer hours and meant I was at home more. It seemed that I had little or no excuse not to at least explore the idea as to whether or not I have a vocation to the permanent diaconate.
One of the first questions I asked myself was “why me?” I am a convert to Catholicism, thanks largely to the support and encouragement of my wife. I left school with no academic qualifications and managed to get an apprenticeship as a welder in a local heavy engineering factory where I worked for the best part of fifteen years until being made redundant in the late 1980s. This was a time when the engineering industry nosedived into recession. Being out of work and with no prospects of a job in the short term, I began to think of a career change but didn’t know what I wanted to do or what I could do. Once again, I must give credit to my wife who supported and encouraged me at this difficult time. I decided to find out if I could get back into education.
I enrolled on GCSE English language and GCSE Sociology just to find out if I could pick things up again. Once I completed these, I then enrolled on an Access to Higher Education Course for mature students, eventually being accepted to study for a Social Sciences degree at University of Teesside. As you can see, I was out of work for almost five years although, during the Summer breaks in the academic year, I managed to find work as a welder which
helped to subsidise the meagre student grant and later student loan. These were difficult years financially. I have never been able to forget the impact that unemployment had on my family and myself. Sadly, millions of people have to live with it today. That’s another article for another time!
Since completing my degree in 1993, I have never been out of work and have done the kind of jobs that I never would have dreamt of. I worked for the ecumenical campaigning charity Church Action on Poverty for around ten years. Followed by managing the government funded Community Empowerment Fund, I then moved on to working as Chief Officer for ecumenical charity, South Tyneside Churches Key Project supporting homeless and vulnerable young people. After three years, I got a job with CAFOD as Diocesan Manager for the Diocese of Middlesbrough. I worked for CAFOD for fourteen years until I took up the post of Adult Formation Coordinator for the diocese of Middlesbrough from 2019 until I retired in May 2024.
Apologies for the potted work history but it may help make sense of how and why I became a permanent deacon. I was ordained Permanent Deacon on 1st June 2013, at St Mary’s Cathedral, Middlesbrough, following four years of study and formation. I would just say that I am very much an “ordinary” person. Just like anyone else, I’ve had my ups and downs which, without my faith and family, I’m not sure how I would have gotten by.
I believe, the growth of a vocation to the permanent diaconate developed and grew alongside my vocation to marriage, parenthood and working life. Sometimes, it’s not always easy to see how such things are connected to each other as there is always the need to “juggle” our commitments which sometimes seem opposed to one another rather than being interconnected.
Whilst undergoing formation for the diaconate a number of things really resonated with me: Firstly, the three fold ministry of SERVICE to:
• Word (proclaiming and preaching the Gospel)
• Altar (Assisting the priest at Mass and distributing the eucharist)
• Charity (helping to make sure the poor and vulnerable are cared for and treated fairly)
Secondly, Catholic Social Teaching and its analysis of the issues of the day E.g; Laudato Si, Gaudium et Spes, Caritas et Veritate, Populorum Progressio, Rerum Novarum, to name but a few of this rich body of teaching. These provide us with guidance and direction in developing our Christian response to the major issues of our time.
Deacons are ordained to carry out baptisms, to preside at weddings and funerals.
To assist lay people and PP in sacramental preparation programmes, visit the sick, taking them holy communion and viaticum to the dying.
The ministry of the deacon is not to take over ministries from lay people but to support and facilitate the involvement of the laity in as many aspects of parish life as possible. In doing this the deacon assists in building the capacity and sustainability of the parish community.
liturgical function of the deacon is the tip of the iceberg. He is also referred to as the eyes and ears of the Bishop and needs to be informed about the social and economic challenges of the people of God and be able to relay this information to the Bishop so that he can develop plans and initiatives to meet both the spiritual and temporal needs of his people.
Thirdly, Prayer is essential to the life of the deacon as is reading of Sacred Scripture. At his ordination he promises the bishop that he will pray, daily, the liturgy of the hours for the needs of the world. This is a very beautiful form of prayer and helps to open the mysteries of God to us.
The ministry of the Deacon is wide, varied and hugely satisfying but always and above all a ministry of service. To serve the people of God; Bishop, Priest and laity in ways that affirm them in their faith and help to build the Kingdom of God here on earth. Ultimately it’s about being Good News to all those he comes into contact with, guided by the teaching of Christ and his Church.
I still haven’t been able to answer the question “Why me?”
The
Telling Stories of Hope: A Jubilee of Communications
At a time when media can be used to divide, this gathering reinforced the Church’s mission to build bridges, foster understanding, and promote a culture of dialogue
From January 24 to 26, the Eternal City became the gathering place for journalists, writers, filmmakers, and communicators from all corners of the world, drawn together by a simple but profound call: to tell stories of hope. This Jubilee of Communications underscored the Church’s vital role in fostering ethical, hope-filled dialogue, particularly in our digital age, where messages can shape societies for better or worse. Pope Francis has fully embraced technology and social media to extend his pastoral reach with his messages of faith and hope. With over 52 million followers worldwide on X (formerly Twitter), under @Pontifex, he is the most-followed Pope in history.
In an era marked by disinformation, polarization, and digital manipulation, the role of communicators has never been more crucial. The ability to shape narratives, influence perceptions, and inspire action carries a profound responsibility. This Jubilee event served as a call to reclaim communication as a force for good, ensuring that truth, integrity, and hope remain at the heart of every message. At a time when media can be used to divide, this gathering reinforced the Church’s mission to build bridges, foster understanding, and promote a culture of dialogue. By bringing together communicators from diverse backgrounds, the event emphasized the power of storytelling to uplift, heal, and transform society.
The Jubilee event began with a penitential liturgy at the majestic Basilica of St. John Lateran, presided over by Cardinal Baldo Reina, vicar general for the Diocese of Rome followed by an International Holy Mass on the Feast of Saint Francis de Sales, an especially fitting occasion for this first Jubilee event of Communications, as he is the Patron Saint of
Journalists. In the late 16th and early 17th centuries, Saint Francis de Sales pioneered the use of printed pamphlets to spread the faith, slipping them under doors and leaving them in public places to reach people who would otherwise never hear the message of the Gospel. His efforts led to the conversion of an estimated 40,000 people. Now, centuries later, we too are called to use the tools of modern media to spread messages of truth and hope.
The following morning, we set out on a pilgrimage along the Via della Conciliazione, walking together in prayer and reflection toward St. Peter’s Basilica. As we approached, the atmosphere was one of reverence and anticipation. Passing through the Holy Door, a profound symbol of God’s mercy and invitation to renewal, felt like a spiritual crossing, a moment to embrace grace and transformation.
From there, we gathered in Paul VI Hall for a special session titled ‘Communication and Hope’, organised by the Dicastery for Communication. The event served as a powerful space for dialogue and reflection on the role of ethical and hope-filled storytelling in today’s world. The morning culminated in a highly anticipated audience with the Holy Father, where Pope Francis shared his wisdom and encouragement for communicators committed to truth, unity, and the spread of hope.
Nobel Peace Prize laureate (2021), Maria Ressa, took the stage with a powerful and urgent message, warning us of the growing crisis facing democracy, one increasingly threatened by the manipulation of information through artificial intelligence in ways never seen before. Her words were both challenging and direct, a call to action for all present.
Gwen Wiseman
“Collaborate and seek the truth with moral clarity. Because silence in the face of injustice is complicity. Protect the most vulnerable and recognize your power. Remember that hope is not passive.”
Her speech resonated deeply, drawing an emotional standing ovation from the audience. Renowned Irish writer Colum McCann then spoke passionately about the power of storytelling in times of rupture and its ability to heal, connect, and inspire renewal. He said: “If we live in times of rupture, then the new theme must be repair. Among the ‘pilgrims of hope’ we honour here today are our journalists and communicators, who are in a privileged position to tell the stories of others. They know that for a story to be told, it must first be listened to carefully.”
After these inspiring talks, Pope Francis arrived. His words were simple yet with an immeasurable depth:
“Communicating means going out of myself a little bit to give something of myself to the other. And communication is not only the transmission of news, but also the encounter with the other person. Knowing how to communicate is great wisdom, great wisdom! Your work is a work that builds … it builds up society, it builds up the Church, it makes everyone move forward, as long as it is true. Communicating is what God does with His Son,
and God's communication with the Son is the Holy Spirit. Communicating something divine. Thank you for what you do.”
The Jubilee of Communications concluded on January 26, the Sunday of the Word of God, with a beautiful Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, presided over by Pope Francis. As we gathered in that sacred space, he spoke of the living power of the Word of God, reminding us that God Himself is the ultimate communicator, revealing His love through Scripture, through Christ, and through us as His messengers.
“On the Sunday of the Word of God, at the beginning of this Jubilee Year, we proclaim this page of Luke’s Gospel, in which Jesus reveals himself as the Messiah, “anointed” (v. 18) and sent to “proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour” (v. 19)! Jesus is the living Word in whom all the Scriptures find their fulfilment.”
“The Word of God is alive: down the centuries, it accompanies us and by the power of the Holy Spirit, it is at work in every age. For the Lord is always faithful to his promise, which, in his love for humanity, he always keeps. This is exactly what Jesus says in the synagogue in Nazareth: “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing” (Lk 4:21).
Finally, in his message for the 59th World Day of Social Communications, Pope Francis has given us an instruction manual with clear
guidance for our calling as communicators.
The Holy Father reminds us that, with God’s grace, we are all capable of fulfilling this mission.
• A good communicator ensures that those who listen, read or watch can be involved, can draw close, can get in touch with the best part of themselves and enter with these attitudes into the stories told. Communicating in this way helps us to become “pilgrims of hope”, which is the motto of the present Jubilee.
• Do not allow instinctive reactions to guide your communication.
• Always spread hope, even when it is difficult, even when it costs, even when it seems not to bear fruit.
• Try to promote a communication that can heal the wounds of our humanity.
• Be witnesses and promoters of a nonaggressive communication; help to spread a
culture of care, build bridges and break down the visible and invisible barriers of the present time.
• Tell stories steeped in hope, be concerned about our common destiny and strive to write together the history of our future.
This Jubilee was more than just an event, it was a call for change. Communications is not purely reserved for journalists. It is for all of us, in how we speak to our families and neighbours. We are called to inspire, heal, and build. To communicate is to serve, and in that service, we truly become pilgrims of hope.
This Jubilee was more than just an event, it was a call for change. Communications is not purely reserved for journalists. It is for all of us, in how we speak to our families and neighbours. We are called to inspire, heal, and build. To communicate is to serve, and in that service, we truly become pilgrims of hope.
Inspirational teacher in daily 10K barefoot run raising funds for Alzheimer's Society
In 2020, he ran 10 kilometres a day for a year in aid of mental health and suicide prevention in men, raising over £25,000 for local charity, Wirral Mind
A remarkable PE teacher from Our Lady of Pity Catholic Primary School, Greasby, Merseyside, has pledged to run 10 kilometres barefoot every day for a year, to raise money for the Alzheimer's Society.
Phill Hayward, who has worked at the school for 16 years, is currently six months into his gruelling fundraising campaign.
Since July 2024, he braved all kinds of weather, including the snow and ice that hit the Wirral in early January. So far, Phill has raised over £6,000 for the charity which he holds close to his heart.
In 2015, Phill's grandad was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Phill has witnessed the emotional and physical toll the diagnosis has had on his beloved grandad and everyone around him.
This isn't the first time Phill has embarked on such an intense fundraising initiative. In 2020, he ran 10 kilometres a day for a year in aid of mental health and suicide prevention in men, raising over £25,000 for local charity, Wirral Mind.
Phill said: "It was single-handedly the hardest thing I have ever achieved in my life. It took a
huge toll on my body physically and mentally. Three years on after completing the challenge, I have decided to hit the tarmac again and take it even further by doing it in bare feet."
"By the time I have completed this challenge, it would be 10 years since my grandad's diagnosis. Alzheimer's has taken so much from my family, especially my nan and my mum. It has been heartbreaking to watch.
He added: "My grandad is housebound with my family by his side. He is the bravest and strongest man I know and sadly he has no idea about the immense challenge I'm undertaking, but I know he would be proud of me."
Phill shared that the recent frost and ice posed significant challenges, making it particularly tough on his feet. He said: "If I had started my challenge in that weather, it may have stopped me from continuing. I've had a few blisters and cuts, but I've become acclimatised to it!"
When asked which terrain he favours, Phill revealed that he favours concrete. Despite wet grass being easy to run in, hard grass and sand is tough on his feet.
Staff and pupils at Our Lady of Pity Catholic Primary School have been supporting Phill, especially through the colder months, with teachers running with him or children cheering him on.
Head of school, Mrs Kathryn Dunne, commented: "We all think Mr Hayward is absolutely incredible. Whenever he runs around the school field and playground after school, we make sure to wave and offer him words of encouragement.
"Phill is a fantastic role model for the whole community. What he is doing takes real courage and commitment, and we are incredibly proud of him. His determination to make a difference, not only for his family but for so many others affected by Alzheimer's, is truly inspiring.
To support Phill Hayward and donate money for the Alzheimer's Society, head to his GoFundMe page: www.gofundme.com/Barefoot-10k-a-day-fora-year
Phill Hayward and pupils
Sarah O'Keefe
March Saint
St David of Wales: A Legacy of Faith, Perseverance, and Devotion
Preaching and Miracles
The
miracles associated with
St. David’s life further cemented his reputation as a man of great holiness
St David of Wales, the patron saint of Wales, stands as one of the most beloved and revered figures in the Christian tradition. His life, teachings, and profound spirituality have left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire people across the world. Known for his humility, devotion, and unyielding faith, St. David’s journey is one of perseverance through adversity, simplicity in the face of complexity, and unwavering service to God and his community. His story remains a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of faith, offering timeless lessons that transcend the centuries.
Early Life and Spiritual Calling
St. David, or Dewi Sant in Welsh, is believed to have been born around 500 AD in what is now Pembrokeshire, located in the southwest of Wales. His mother, St. Non, was a devout Christian of noble descent, while his father, King Sant, was a local ruler. According to tradition, David’s birth was surrounded by divine signs, which hinted at his future role as a man of God. While many details of his early life remain somewhat shrouded in mystery, it is clear that St. David was raised in a Christian home, deeply immersed in the teachings of the faith from a young age.
As a young man, David chose the life of a monk over the comforts and privileges of royalty. His desire to serve God, combined with his remarkable devotion to prayer and asceticism, guided him toward a life of monasticism. He founded several monasteries across Wales, with his most famous one being at Glyn Rhosyn, now known as St David’s, which became the spiritual centre of Welsh Christianity. These monasteries, which followed a strict rule of discipline and simplicity, were known for their dedication to prayer, study, and a life in harmony with nature.
St. David’s monasteries were not like the grand abbeys of Europe, which often relied on wealth and power. Instead, they were austere places where the monks lived off the land, growing their own food, raising livestock, and engaging in hard work. David believed in the importance of self-sufficiency, hard labour, and simplicity. His approach to monasticism reflected his deep understanding that true spiritual fulfilment came not from external comforts, but from the internal peace of devotion and simplicity.
One of the most notable aspects of St. David’s life was his role as a preacher. He travelled throughout Wales, spreading the message of Christianity and calling people to live lives of holiness. His sermons were powerful and moving, often addressing the themes of repentance, humility, and dedication to God. It is said that St. David was particularly focused on encouraging people to live simple lives free from excess and distraction, so that they might more fully devote themselves to prayer and the service of others.
David’s influence was not confined to his own community or even to Wales. His teachings spread across the Celtic world, and he became one of the most important figures in the early Church. His monastic rule, the “Rule of St. David,” became a model for many communities. The rule emphasized the importance of prayer, humility, and hard work, values that resonated deeply with those who heard David’s message.
The Synod of Brefi and St. David's Enduring Influence
One of the most significant events in St. David’s life was his role in the Synod of Brefi, a council that gathered to address matters of doctrine and the practice of the Church. According to legend, David delivered a powerful sermon at the synod, urging his fellow clergy to remain faithful to the teachings of the Gospel. His words were so compelling that it is said the earth beneath him rose to form a hill, allowing the entire assembly to hear him clearly. This dramatic moment not only solidified his position as a key figure in Welsh Christianity but also became a symbol of the spiritual authority he held.
The Synod of Brefi is a pivotal moment in the history of Christianity in Wales. It demonstrated David’s ability to unite people under a common cause and defend the purity of Christian doctrine. It was at this synod that he was officially recognized as the leader of the Welsh Church, further solidifying his legacy as the patron saint of Wales.
Throughout his life, St. David maintained a commitment to simplicity and piety. He never sought fame or power, preferring instead to focus on his spiritual journey and on guiding others along their own paths to holiness. His message was clear: true faith is not found in grand gestures or worldly success, but in humble devotion to God and service to others.
St. David's Legacy and the Modern Celebration
St. David’s death is believed to have occurred around 589 AD, though the exact date remains
uncertain. However, his impact on Wales and the wider Christian world endures. The town of St. David’s in Pembrokeshire, where he founded his most famous monastery, is now home to the stunning St David’s Cathedral, a place of pilgrimage and reflection for those wishing to honour the saint’s memory.
St. David’s Day, celebrated annually on March 1st, is a time for people to reflect on his life and teachings, as well as to celebrate Welsh culture and heritage. On this day, people across Wales and around the world participate in parades, wear daffodils (the national flower of Wales), and gather in community to honour the saint’s contributions to the Christian faith and Welsh identity.
In a world that often seems to prioritize wealth, fame, and material success, St. David’s example of simple living, unwavering faith, and
selfless service continues to inspire people of all backgrounds. His life reminds us that true greatness is not measured by worldly achievements but by the depth of one’s devotion to God and the love shown to others.
St. David of Wales remains a powerful symbol of faith, perseverance, and humility. His commitment to living a life of simplicity and devotion, his dedication to spreading the Christian message, and his deep connection to the land and people of Wales have left an indelible mark on history. As we remember St. David, we are reminded of the power of faith to transform lives and the enduring importance of living a life of integrity, purpose, and service to others. His legacy continues to shine brightly as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.
View from the Pew
Mysticism, Symbolism … and Chocolate
Dr Jay Kettle-Williams
Avila, a city northwest of Madrid and capital of the Spanish province bearing its name in the autonomous community of Castilla y León (1), is well known for its medieval city walls, intact to this day, running between more than eighty crenelated, semicircular towers and nine gates. Avila holds world-wide renown for being the birthplace of St Teresa (March 28, 1515October 4, 1582), a Spanish Carmelite nun who was beatified in 1614 and canonized in 1622, celebrated as an author of spiritual classics and widely regarded as one of the greatest mystics, often identified with the symbols of a book, a heart and an arrow.
The mystics, the Spanish mystics being perhaps those paramount amongst their kind, endeavoured to put into plain, simple words their experience of a mystical communion with Christ. My own religiosity doesn’t take me to the heights of mysticism nor anywhere near. I’m only conversant with what some might see as the mundane level of language.
The language of the mystics in their evangelist approach to the laity in their midst was to associate religious concepts with those everyday matters and objects well known to and easily recognised by their audiences. Everyday objects and images with which the hoi polloi of the day would be well aware and would readily recognise were taken as emblematic. Your soul, for instance, would be referred to as the personal and private ‘castle’ within yourself. St Teresa herself employs that very symbolism of the ‘castle’ within yourself in Castillo Interior (Interior Castle) which she wrote in 1577 as a guide for spiritual development through service and prayer, inspired by her vision of the soul, the castle within yourself, as a crystal globe in the shape of a castle containing seven mansions.
In 1614 Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640) completed an oil on panel painting of Saint Teresa of Ávila's Vision of the Holy Spirit (visit https://artuk.org/discover/artworks/teresa-ofavilas-vision-of-the-dove-5630) in which the Holy Spirit is represented as a dove. Admittedly, symbolism of this ilk existed long before the sixteenth century and even prior to the Christian era. However, in Christian iconography, a dove symbolizes and is otherwise compared with the Holy Spirit, as at the Baptism of Jesus in Matthew 3:16 (JB) and Luke 3:22 (JB).
Rubens’ painting is now in the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge, to which it was allocated by the UK Government in 1999 after being accepted in lieu of inheritance tax (visit
https://artuk.org/discover/artworks/teresa-ofavilas-vision-of-the-dove-5630). It is one of three versions Rubens produced of the subject, the others are in Rotterdam and in a private collection.
The symbolism of the dove in the Christian context is prefaced in the Old Testament (OT) with the story of Noah's ark: "In the evening, the dove came back to him and there it was with a new olive-branch in its beak" (Genesis 8:11 JB).
The symbolism of a dove and olive branch, derived from Greek thought, as symbolic of peace originated with the early Christians who portrayed the act of baptism accompanied by a dove with an olive branch in its beak.
Christianity, not unlike other faiths, often employs symbols. At this time of the year, as we approach Easter, Christian symbolism looms particularly and increasingly large giving opportunity for traders to boost their turnover and prompting those with a sweet tooth to drool at the thought of all that chocolate. But the symbol of an egg sits firmly at the centre of our faith, not for whatever significance it might have for our taste buds or the bottom line in business, but simply for the meaningful promise of resurrection that it holds.
(1) Castile's name is generally thought to derive from "land of castles" in reference to the castles built in the area to consolidate the Christian Reconquest from the Moors.
Castella (‘castles’ in Latin) became Castiella under the umbrella of Classical Western Romance, the Latin legacy after the fall of Rome in AD476 when the Western Roman Empire ended.
Castilla is the modern-day form. León takes its name from the Roman military camp Castra
Legionis, once base for Legio VII (The Seventh Legion of Rome’s imperial army).
Acknowledgements and Attribution: Accompanying image (Statue with Blowing Horn) after the sculpture Exultate Jubilate by Philip Jackson. Texts/References adapted and/or adopted from http://en.wikipedia.org under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 4.0: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/bysa/4.0/; Photographs (Unsplash): The Walls of Avila by Darci Ribeiro; Statue of St Teresa before the walls of Avila by Matteo del Piano.
Dr J L Kettle-Williams is an experienced business communications consultant and wordsmith (tutor, writer, translator).
'I wanted to help feed the world'
Before becoming a priest, Fr Rob was an agricultural scientist and taught in agricultural colleges. He wanted to help feed the world!
Con McHugh is a parishioner of the Archdiocese of Birmingham. He is working on a video project as part of the Jubilee Year.
Over the coming months a series of short videos by Con will explore each of the Jubilee themes:
1.
6.
In the first video - Care for Creation - we listen to Fr Rob Taylerson (pictured) reflect on the need to live sustainably and to make good choices to care for the earth.
Fr Rob is a priest of the Archdiocese and a member of staff at St Mary’s College, Oscott, a seminary where priests are trained.
Before becoming a priest, Fr Rob was an agricultural scientist and taught in agricultural colleges. He wanted to help feed the world! birminghamdiocese.org.uk
Born in the mid-1950s, with a world population of 2.8 billion, roughly 1 in 4 of the world’s population went to bed hungry, without having had a substantial meal that day. By 2027 the world population will be 8.4 billion and the world’s population will have trebled in his lifetime, with the world’s food production having roughly quadrupled, now 1 in 8 people on earth go to bed hungry. It is still too many but the progress in feeding the hungry of the world has been far beyond anything imaginable 70 years ago.
Fr Rob explains: “The blessings of more abundant and more affordable food still currently has its downsides. Much of the increase in food productivity and the reduction in its cost has been achieved by capturing nitrogen from the air to make it accessible to plant roots as nitrogen fertiliser. This industrial chemistry requires huge amounts of energy. Other large amounts of energy are used in agrochemicals, machinery and transport. So Yes, it has required an awful lot of energy to quadruple world food production. And yes, this is responsible for a significant increase of greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere, and that trebling world population also inevitably results in more production of greenhouse gasses which were already too high.
“My understanding of the science tells me that too many greenhouse gasses are being released into the atmosphere, and that the rich nations of the world currently emit, per head of population, more than ten to twenty times the carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses, than the poor nations.
“My life, our lives, must be simplified, must use less energy, must care for this world and all created life on it, with a determination and intensity that will allow our world and our poor to flourish. My cry from the heart is live simply, tread lightly on this earth, that the poor may be fed and live with dignity and that God’s beautiful creation may flourish.”
To watch scan the QR code below
Archdiocese of Liverpool celebrates miracle of Jack Traynor
The Archdiocese of Liverpool celebrated the miraculous cure of John (Jack) Traynor with a celebration Mass on Tuesday 18 February at 7pm at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King.
People from across the archdiocese and beyond gathered at the cathedral to celebrate the historic event, including the Bishop of Tarbes-et-Lourdes, dignitaries, Jack’s family members and those who travel on the annual pilgrimage.
On 8 December 2024, the Archbishop of Liverpool, Archbishop Malcolm McMahon OP, declared the case a miracle, 101 years after Jack was cured.
Jack was a pilgrim on the archdiocese's first official pilgrimage to Lourdes in 1923 and was cured dramatically of epilepsy, paralysis of the right arm and paraplegia during the pilgrimage.
It is the 71st official miracle to have happened in Lourdes and the first person from England to be recognised.
Archbishop Malcolm said: “Declaring the miraculous cure of Jack Traynor is a significant and historic moment for our archdiocese. We planned a fitting celebration to mark this occasion.
“It was to be a celebration filled with joy and we welcomed those from across our archdiocese and beyond.
“It was truly fitting that this celebration took take place during the Jubilee year which calls us to be ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ as Jack’s story certainly fills us with hope.”
The Congo parish building for tomorrow –with Liverpool’s support
liverpoolcatholic.org.uk
Touched by the commitment of those parishioners to be a “striving faith community despite the state of their church building”, Fr Jean Paul felt compelled to act
“Frankly, the church there was no longer fit for community worship,” says Father Jean Paul Ilunga, as he recalls the one negative impression left by a visit three years ago to his mother’s home village in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
He was delighted to be saying Mass in the local chapel, which forms part of the parish of SaintBarthelemy – St Bartholomew’s, in English –yet he found the state of the building in which he stood, deeply dispiriting.
“I said the Mass with mixed feelings as I felt it was not safe,” reflects Fr Jean Paul, parish priest of St Anne and Blessed Dominic in St Helens. The interior showed signs of damage from roosting bats. They had left a pungent smell too. “The church was no longer fit for community worship,” he adds. “But this couldn’t be said publicly, not only because it’d hurt the whole community, but because this church was the only place of solace and comfort for a population which has suffered war for the last 30 years and whose lives are sustained by their Catholic faith and community worship.”
Touched by the commitment of those parishioners to be a “striving faith community despite the state of their church building”, Fr Jean Paul felt compelled to act. On his return to Liverpool, he showed Archbishop Malcolm McMahon photographs of the church, and the response was a commitment by the archdiocese to provide financial support for a rebuilding project. “The Archbishop said that it was possible to help the parish in the village to have a decent place of divine worship,” adds Fr Jean Paul.
That was in 2022. Fast forward to November last year and Fr Jean Paul made a return visit to his home country together with Martin Miller, Chief Operating Officer of the Archdiocese of Liverpool, to see the extent of progress made on the building project.
Kilumbu is in the southeast of DR Congo, Africa’s second-largest country in terms of landmass. It lies in a rural, beautifully verdant region famed for its lakes. Indeed KilumbuMangi – to use the village’s full name – is a stone’s throw from the vast expanse of Lake Kisale. It was there, in the diocese of Kamina, that Fr Jean Paul’s late mother Kasumbwe spent her childhood.
To get to the village, Fr Jean Paul and Martin first flew to DR Congo’s second city, Lubumbashi, landing there on 12 November. Three days later, on Friday 15,they arrived in Kilumbu. Inside the now largely rebuilt church, Fr Jean Paul celebrated Mass once more. “The Mass was in my mother tongue, Kiluba. It was very moving and I felt overwhelmed.”
Mass held inside the current shell of the new church. A tarp is being used as a roof, as there is currently no roof
The church’s brick walls were now in place, though the roof remained unbuilt, meaning a canvas awning was hung above the altar for the Mass. “People were thrilled to see us.” Fr Jean Paul continues. “They wanted to thank us, as the people who’ve helped them to build the church.” During Mass, that gratitude was expressed in song after Communion. “We could see how joyful they were and how grateful they were to the Archdiocese of Liverpool.”
Donations from the archdiocese have helped with the purchase of materials including cement, tiles and paint. Parishioners from St Bartholomew’s, for their part, have contributed in practical ways, such as by “baking bricks, carrying sand, even fetching water from wells,”
as Fr Jean Paul observes. “The work is progressing well, and the church looks good so far.”
Yet, as the visitors from Liverpool saw, there is one significant challenge remaining. The initial plan to build a wooden roof has had to be revisited, owing to the threat of termites. Consequently, more funding is required to construct a metal roof instead. “The next stage is the roofing, and this will be expensive as it has to be in metal. People have advised us that wood wouldn’t last, which is why we’re now forced to use metal,” explains Fr Jean Paul, adding that the cost is estimated at around £25,000.
To this end, he would be grateful for further donations and, as before, any contributions will be managed on the ground by the Canonesses of Saint Augustine of the Notre-Dame Congregation, who are based in a convent close to Kilumbu. The revised target date for the completion of the project is now this coming summer.
For their November visit, it is worth adding that Fr Jean Paul and Martin did not travel out to Central Africa empty-handed. Rather, they took with them around 100 items of football kit – shirts, shorts and socks – which had come from KitAid, a UK charity which for 25 years has been sending used football gear to poorer countries around the globe.
Gilham, the Merseyside regional co-ordinator for KitAid, is also secretary of the Everton Heritage Society. “It’s always great to spread the royal blue across the world! But ultimately it doesn’t matter what colour the shirt is – it is about getting smiles on faces,” he says.
“If we can supply full kits then these kids are allowed to play in leagues, as often in some poorer countries, they struggle to get the kits to play in. Also, it’s more than just a shirt for many people – it’s apiece of clothing that won’t be worn for just football.”
For Fr Jean Paul, these acts of generosity towards his fellow Congolese have only enhanced his own sense of gratitude towards the people of the Archdiocese of Liverpool, where he first arrived 22 years ago.
“In all the parishes where I’ve been here, I have been made welcome,” says Fr Jean Paul who, across 17 years as a priest here, has had spells at each of Christ the King in Liverpool; St Mary and St John’s in Wigan; St Oswald’s in Longton; St Julie’s in St Helens; and now the abovementioned parish of St Anne and Blessed Dominic in St Helens. “This experience has transformed my feelings of being a victim of injustice, when I left Congo, into being a witness of hospitality and generosity,” he relates. “And to now see the church completed in the village of my mum will be further confirmation of my belief that our Church is truly “catholic” – as per the Apostles’ Creed –and that we share in the sufferings of all our brothers and sisters around the world.”
• To make a donation to the Kilumbu project, please write out a cheque to “St Anne & Blessed Dominic”, and write “The Congo Church” on the back, and post it to: St Anne & Blessed Dominic Parish, Parish Office, 40 Monastery Road, Sutton, St Helens, WA9 3ZD
•
The building currently being used as the church
Fr Jean Paul in the village
As the photo shows, a high proportion were Everton shirts, owing to the fact that Richie
Some of the local children in their new football kits
Please pray for the Pope’s health
Pope Francis has expressed his gratitude to those who have cared for him in hospital and to all people around the world who have offered prayers, good wishes and support
Pope Francis, 88, remains hospitalized at Rome's Gemelli Hospital at the time of writing (24/02/2025), where he is being treated for double pneumonia and early-stage kidney insufficiency. His condition is considered critical due to his age and underlying health issues.
Since his admission on February 14, the Pope has experienced a complex lung infection leading to kidney complications. Despite these
challenges, he has shown resilience, having a restful night and remaining alert. He maintains his characteristic sense of humour – a physician said that he has been sitting upright in a chair, working and joking as usual. When one of the doctors greeted the Pope by saying ‘Hello, Holy Father’, he replied with ‘Hello, Holy Son’.
Pope Francis has expressed his gratitude to those who have cared for him in hospital and to all people around the world who have offered prayers, good wishes and support to the Pope. In Cairo, the grand imam of Al-Azhar, the seat of Sunni learning who forged a close bond with Francis, wished him well.
“I pray to Allah to grant my dear brother, Pope Francis, a swift recovery and to bless him with good health and well-being so that he may continue his journey in serving humanity,” Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb wrote in an online post. The American Jewish Committee also offered prayers. “We stand together with our
Catholic brothers and sisters during this challenging time,” the group wrote on social media. And school children from around Rome deluged the Gemelli hospital with get-well cards, while Italian bishops led rosary prayers and celebrated special Masses across Italy.
Meanwhile in Francis’ native Argentina, Catholics prayed for the pope at the Buenos Aires cathedral and the city’s iconic obelisk was lit up “Francis, the city prays for you.”
From hospital, Pope Francis marks the eve of the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, calling it a “painful and shameful occasion for the whole of humanity.” In a message released Sunday by the Holy See Press Office, the pontiff expresses solidarity with Ukraine and calls for prayers for conflict zones, including Palestine, Israel, Myanmar, and Sudan.
Pope Francis has a history of respiratory issues, including a partial lung removal in his youth, which makes him susceptible to infections. He was previously hospitalized for pneumonia in 2023.
As the Pope continues his recovery, the Vatican requests continued prayers for his health and well-being.
Nottingham Nun Speaks at the United Nations
Sister Liz Dodd CSJP addressed the United Nations on the issue of migration and about her ministry in Nottingham
The Sisters, she said, welcome women with ‘no recourse to public funds’, which means that they do not have settled status, as well as women who are appealing a decision about their asylum claim
Earlier this year in Geneva, Sister Liz Dodd CSJP, a young sister of St Joseph of Peace, whose order was founded in and continues to minister in the Diocese of Nottingham, addressed the United Nations on the issue of migration and the ministry she undertakes with her sisters in the City of Nottingham. Her intervention formed part of a panel discussion which preceded the UN premiere of the award-winning film Cabrini at the Palais des Nations.
This film premiere and panel discussion was organised by the Permanent Mission of Italy to the United Nations and supported by the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See within the cultural framework of the work of the United Nations. This powerful epic focused on Cabrini’s arrival in New York City in 1889, where she is greeted by disease, crime and impoverished children. Mandated by Pope Leo XIII to tend to the needs of these children, she set off on a daring mission to convince the hostile mayor to secure housing, education and housing for society’s most vulnerable. With broken English and poor health, Cabrini used her entrepreneurial mind to build an empire of hope unlike anything the world had ever seen.
Whilst set nearly one hundred years ago, the film touched on many issues relevant to
multilateral Geneva and to the Church today, including human dignity, human rights, migration, health, equality of women and education. In this respect, the panel discussion, which preceded the film premiere, provided an occasion to explore these themes and remarks were given by a number of people including the lead actress Cristiana Dell’Anna, the Director General of the United Nations Office, Geneva and H.E. Archbishop Ettore Balestrero, the Holy See’s representative to the UN.
Addressing an audience of some 450 people, Sister Liz Dodd CSJP shared about her Congregation’s ‘House of Hospitality’ in Nottingham and her life and ministry in this house alongside two other Sisters, asylum seekers, refugees and young homeless women. The Sisters, she said, welcome women with ‘no recourse to public funds’, which means that they do not have settled status, as well as women who are appealing a decision about their asylum claim. Sister Liz took the opportunity to highlight the witness of her Sisters and said.
‘I am not the ‘Cabrini’ in my home; my two sisters are. Both nearing 90, with health conditions, they are the first ones to say ‘yes’ to a guest; yes to the disruption, the change, and the challenge. They have been in religious life for a long time, and I think they have
learned that saying yes- to the things that scare us or make us uncomfortable- is usually saying yes to God.’
She spoke of her own desire to still ‘be saying yes’ to God when she is 90 years old. Sister Liz then concluded her remarks by challenging those gathered with these words, ‘…I have a hope for today, a prayer, maybe. Many of you here in this room have the power to say yes and no; in the Church and in the world. My hope is that this film would inspire you to say
yes- to God and to God, particularly in the poor- and to keep saying yes.’
Sister Liz’ intervention not only showcased the important work of her Congregation in the Diocese and City of Nottingham at this prestigious international forum, it was also a testimony to the fact that Cabrini is not just a historical figure in the life of the Church but that, even today, Catholic women are still choosing to follow Christ in this way and to serve Him amongst those most in need.
Extremely rare medieval scroll discovered at York’s Bar Convent
The best example of an Arma Christi ever discovered
An unassuming box in the archives at York’s Bar Convent has yielded the unique discovery of an illuminated medieval scroll known as an Arma Christi, featuring the prayer poem O Vernicle. The discovery is one of the best-preserved examples ever found, and is the only one that features response texts after each verse of the poem, demonstrating that they may have been used in a different way to previously believed.
Up until now, only ten copies were known to have survived, produced in the 14th and 15th centuries, each one handmade by a number of skilled craftsmen. Very few medieval devotional items survived the Reformation in the 1540s and the outlawing of Catholicism some decades later under Elizabeth I, and the Bar Convent Arma Christi is thought to be one of the last examples ever made, dating from around 1475.
The ten known scrolls have been subject to academic and ecclesiastical scrutiny for many decades, sharing a unique insight into religious iconography and devotional practices. However, the Bar Convent Arma Christi may turn conventional thinking on its head, as the responses, written in red, demonstrate that this scroll was likely used in communal worship as well as private prayer.
The scroll was discovered by Special Collections Manager Dr Hannah Thomas as she was cataloguing the Bar Convent’s collection. In its rolled format, the unassuming document is just six inches wide with the roll a couple of inches in diameter, but when she unfurled the scroll, she quickly realised that this was something very unusual and rare.
“This is an illuminated script, with hand-drawn figures and beautiful calligraphy – it is a medieval work of art in its own right. However, where it differs from the other examples that have been discovered is that this is not merely an illustrated poem or prayer created for private contemplation, but featuring response texts suggesting it was used by groups or families as they gathered together for prayers in the home,” explains Hannah.
Book Review
Living Lent with Carlo Acutis:
A
meditative journey with the quotes of Carlo Acutis
by Gwen Wiseman
The date is set for the canonisation of the first millennial saint, Carlo Acutis on 27th April, Divine Mercy Sunday. In Living Lent with Carlo Acutis: A Meditative Journey with the Quotes of Carlo Acutis, Gwen Wiseman offers a spiritual guide for those seeking to fully embrace Lent towards Easter and beyond to the Canonisation. This devotional weaves together daily Gospel reflections, Carlo’s profound yet simple quotes, prayers, action steps, and journaling prompts to help readers grow in faith.
Carlo Acutis, known for his deep love for the Eucharist and simple path to holiness, once said, “The Eucharist is my highway to heaven.” Gwen Wiseman says “This book invites you to walk that highway with Him, drawing closer to Jesus in the Eucharist and embracing the call to sainthood.” Covering the six weeks of Lent and leading up to Carlo’s
As one of the only Catholic religious orders that was founded in England after the Reformation, precious objects and documents were often given to the sisters at the Bar Convent, now known as the Congregation of Jesus, for safe keeping, as practicing the Catholic faith was an act of treason against the crown from 1581 onwards. Many of these treasures have been on public display in the Bar Convent Living Heritage Centre, but fully cataloguing their archives has only started in recent years. There are no records of when this Arma Christi passed into the Order’s care.
The existence of the newly discovered scroll has been kept tightly under wraps until now, given its importance, and indeed, the full manuscript will not be revealed until it becomes the centrepiece of a major new exhibition at the Bar Covent Living Heritage Centre opening on Saturday 5 April 2025.
“We know that there will be huge excitement about this discovery, but given that it has remained hidden for over 500 years, we know that people will not mind waiting a few more weeks before we share this magnificent scroll with the world,” says Sister Ann Stafford, Superior of the Bar Covent. “We also have barconvemt.co.uk
exciting plans for another world-first: the prayers and devotional material on the scroll will feature in a special Mass in our Chapel. We’re delighted that a representative from the Archbishop of York will be joining us, along with local dignitaries and faith representatives. We hope to livestream the service so that the world can share in its discovery.”
canonisation, this book is not just a meditation, it is an invitation to live Lent as a transformative experience.
In his preface of the book, Monsignor Anthony Figueiredo from the Sanctuary of the Renunciation where the tomb of Blessed Carlo resides in Assisi writes: Soon after his election, Pope Francis visited the very place where Saint Francis stripped himself of his clothes before his father, the bishop and the people of Assisi. The Holy Father pointed to that prophetic gesture as a magna carta for our spiritual journey as Christians: “The renunciation of Saint Francis tells us simply what the Gospel teaches: following Jesus means putting him in first place, stripping ourselves of the many things that we possess that suffocate our hearts, renouncing ourselves, taking up the cross and carrying it with Jesus” (4 October 2013).
800 years after that gesture of Saint Francis, Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint, tells us the same: “Holiness is not the process of adding, but subtracting: less of me to leave space for God.” Like Francis, Carlo embraced this stripping in his life by renouncing himself, taking up the cross and carrying it with Jesus unto death at the tender age of 15. From Heaven, as our contemporary friend and interceding for us before Jesus, he does even greater things now as “God’s influencer.”
I heartily recommend you enter the journey of Lent with Carlo as your companion, following
the daily itinerary that Gwen Wiseman sets out so beautifully in this book. Through it, you will encounter the deepest meaning of Lent, which, as Saint Paul teaches, is to relive our baptism: “We were buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life” (Rom 6,4).
None of us like being stripped. It can scare us, shock us, and certainly humbles us. Like the altar that is stripped on Holy Thursday. The tabernacle empty and left open on Good Friday. Jesus not physically in our churches on Holy Saturday. Yet, that stripping will allow us to claim the Resurrection on Easter Sunday. Carlo assures us of that: “To love what awaits us tomorrow is to give today the best of our fruit.”
Highly recommended for anyone seeking a meaningful and enriching Lent.
Available to purchase as a paperback and Kindle edition on Amazon.co.uk. Check out Gwen’s other devotional book available, Pray the Rosary with Blessed Carlo Acutis.
About the Author
For the past seven years, Gwen has lived in Assisi, Italy where she serves as the lead cantor for the English Mass at the Basilica of Saint Francis. Gwen also assists pilgrims by arranging itineraries, and helping visitors
experience the deep spiritual richness of Assisi. Her connection to Carlo Acutis began in 2019, when she first learned about his inspiring young life. Since then, she has dedicated herself to sharing his story and legacy. Today, Gwen accompanies the primary relic of Blessed Carlo Acutis on tours across the UK and Ireland, helping others encounter the young saint’s powerful witness to holiness and the Eucharist. Her devotional books reflect her deep commitment to faith and guiding others in their spiritual journeys
Pope Francis: God still calls young
people
even
today, sometimes in ways we can’t imagine
thepopevideo.org
Let us pray that the ecclesial community might welcome the desires and doubts of those young people who feel a call to serve Christ’s mission in the priesthood and religious life.
Pope Francis – February 2025
Jorge the youth, and today’s youth
“When I was 17 years old,” Pope Francis confides in his video message, produced by the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, “I was a student and was working. I had my own plans. I wasn’t thinking at all of being a priest. But one day, I went into the church…and God was there, waiting for me!” Photos from his youth – at school, in his family, at church – open The Pope Video. Scenes from the daily lives of today’s young people follow. Times change, but the ability of the Lord to speak to the hearts of those who seek him does not change.
In fact, the Pope affirms that “God still calls young people even today, sometimes in ways we can’t imagine,” and that he does “new things with them.” This is why it is important to create a listening atmosphere in which they can manifest their concerns, and feel “loved as they are, and for who they are,” an atmosphere in which they can hear and freely respond to the Lord’s call, accompanied by a welcoming community. In Pope Francis’s words, “it is necessary to walk with them, listen to them… take them to Jesus, always favouring their freedom.”
Pope Francis invites us, therefore, to listen to the Holy Spirit when he “speaks through the concerns young people feel.” That way, it will be possible to welcome God’s call “in ways that better serve the Church and the world today.” And so, he asks us to pray that the “ecclesial community might welcome the desires and doubts of those young people who feel a call to serve Christ’s mission in the priesthood and religious life.”
The challenge of trust
The challenge, then, is that of believing in young people, in their ability to contribute significantly to the Church and to the world. In fact, in the February video, Pope Francis invites us to be hopeful about young people, and to hope primarily in God, “for He calls everyone.”
“Our God is a God who takes the lives and gifts of young people seriously,” states Archbishop José H. Gómez, Archbishop of Los Angeles.
“The Church’s mission,” continues the Archbishop of the largest diocese in the United States, who contributed to the production of this video with a team of digital professionals, “is to walk with young people to help them grow in their faith and to work to build this world into the Kingdom that God wants for his people.”
Father Cristóbal Fones, S.J., International Director of the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, reminds us that “believing in young people is essential to encourage them to examine their own vocation in full freedom, and to respond to it courageously. This requires an approach to vocation ministry that truly values dialogue and accompaniment, while also welcoming and accepting the concrete concerns, questions and aspirations of young people as an important component in the vocational process. Furthermore, the Pope says that, through what young people say, which can at times be challenging or questioning, God could also be indicating new paths for today’s Church, thus offering us an opportunity for our own conversion.
“In the Christian life,” Father Fones continues, “we can all accompany their discernment through four basic attitudes: openness, a listening ear, proximity, and interest. First, we need to be open to the mission of encouraging vocations, and not close those paths to them which God Himself is opening. This is especially important within families. Next, it is important to create a climate in the community that is conducive to listening to God’s voice, to welcoming, to respect those who feel the desire to follow Christ in the consecrated or priestly life. We also need to be discretely and consistently close to them, supporting them through our own witness. Lastly, taking a sincere interest in each one of them helps to open their hearts. To sum up, our attitudes can play a decisive part for young people who want to respond to the Lord on this path, yet who do not know how to do it.” Finally, to gain the indulgences granted
specifically during the Jubilee of 2025, it is worth recalling that one of the conditions is to pray for the intentions of the Supreme Pontiff. The Pope Video offers everyone an occasion to do this, as well as the digital prayer platform.
The Pope Video is possible thanks to the generous contributions of many people. You can donate by visiting thepopevideo.org
Pope Francis prays during Mass on the solemnity of the Epiphany on Jan. 6, 2025, in St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican.
Credit: Vatican Media
New online Catholic History Timeline launched for England and Wales
More than just a list of dates the Timeline is an educational tool for the general reader but also created with a history undergraduate seeking to understand a particular period of Catholic history in mind. Beginning with the arrival of Christianity in England and Wales and ending at the present day each of the significant moments in the Timeline feature an in depth article.
Not fixed at the present time the Timeline will continually develop as more articles are added and as new academic research results in the further development or replacement of the existing articles.
Sources are identified for each of the articles that make up the Timeline and suggestions for further reading are offered.
The Timeline has been developed for the English Catholic History Association (ECHA) by their Vice Chair and editor of their Newsletter, Dr Margaret Turnham whose
academic interest is Catholic history. The Timeline forms a key part of the ECHA website.
Pope Francis said in his letter “Renewal in the Study of Church History (21.11.24) that studying Church history is a way to preserve memory and build the future, as well as the best way to interpret the reality that surrounds us. He quotes from St Philip Neri that people “if they do not know history, they will eventually no longer know the faith."
These comments echo our vision and are what we are hoping to achieve with the Timeline project.
The Timeline is divided into five periods to enable ease of access:
• The early Medieval period AD 313-1066
• The later Medieval period 1066-1536
• The Reformation in England and Wales 1536-1559
• The Penal Times 1559-1850
• The Modern era 1850-2019
The period covered runs from AD 313 when Christianity was recognised as an official religion in the Roman Empire, swiftly followed by the first mention of the Church in England and Wales in the record of a group of bishops
CRYPTIC Across
7 Judge what is good for Idaho with time (6)
8 He shone a light on voting in Aleppo's fringe areas (6)
9 They believe it's hot west of the river in India (6)
10 Variant doctrine is inadmissible in court, one conceded (6)
11 Lord reportedly seen in the dock... (4)
12 ...do a crime that's convoluted in relation to an OT book lady (8)
14 Statue in NT book spies during the war brought to America (8)
17 David hid here – there's nothing before hotel to the east (4)
19 Title of fellow, one being hugged an hour after midnight by a famous sister (6)
21 Chart from Ugandan's starting point to a port on the Indian Ocean (6)
22 Knowledge that is, about time, attributed to Jethro's folk (6)
23 Investing in land; but, in truth, I missed out (6) CRYPTIC Down
1 Resort in Italy and Rhode Island to putting on a short skirt (6)
2 Senior lecturer's interest in widespread erosion (6)
3 Runaway renegade Simeon brings you and me down (8)
4 Slippery oil removed from Philistine city in the OT (4)
5 Where to get French stock belonging to us during Mad Cow Disease (6)
6 Priest gets limitless headgear in support of prophet (6)
13 Repeated attack suppressed petrified commanders-in-chief here (8)
15 Declared 'nail' is in the dictionary (6)
16 God appears very large to girl (6)
17 Job's friend's pub is in one of the 'cities of the plain' (6)
18 Delicate, initial pieces eaten – tea is taken, eventually (6)
20 Long-suffering patient? (4) QUICK Across
7 Judge of the Hebrews whose name is said to mean ‘Mighty Warrior' (6)
8 Greek god of light (6)
9 Adherents of a 5000 year-old religion (6)
10 Belief that rejects the orthodox tenets of a religion (6)
11 Dock: pillar (4)
12 Esther's uncle (8)
14 Behemoth; monster (8)
17 Desert where David hid from Saul (4)
19 Prophet who sang in praise to the Lord for the crossing of the Red Sea (6)
21 African capital, formerly Lorenço Marques (6)
22 Nationality of Heber, husband of Jael (6)
23 US investment option (6)
QUICK Down
1 Italian lido resort on the Adriatic (6)
2 Someone, often a lay person, who delivers the lessons in a church service (6)
3 Runaway slave owned by Philemon (8)
4 Where the Ark was taken after being stolen by the Philistines (4)
5 Paris Stock Exchange (6)
6 Hebrew prophet featured in both books of Kings (6)
13 One the Black Hills of South Dakota known for its giant relief carvings of four US presidents (8)
15 Conjectured (6)
16 The greatest of all the gods of ancient Egypt (6)
17 One of Job's three friends (6)
18 Small; dainty (6)
20 'Blessed are the ----, for they will inherit the earth' [Matt/KJV] (4)
You can use both sets of clues to solve the puzzle: the solutions are the same. Across: 7 Gideon, 8 Apollo, 9 Hindus, 10 Heresy, 11 Pier, 12 Mordecai, 14 Colossus, 17 Ziph, 19 Miriam, 21 Maputo,
22 Kenite, 23 Realty. Down: 1 Rimini, 2 Reader, 3 Onesimus,
Gath, 5 Bourse, 6 Elisha, 13 Rushmore, 15 Opined, 16 Osiris, 17 Zophar, 18 Petite, 20 Meek.
who attended the Council of Arles in France in AD314. It ends with the canonisation of St John Henry Newman in 2019.
Margaret Turnham