Westminstter Record July 2015 by RCWestminster

Westminster Record

July 2015 | 20p

Ordinations to the Diaconate and Priesthood

Pages 10-11

CAFOD Lobbies MPs on Climate Change Page 15

Cardinal Visits Tilbury Port Ahead of Sea Sunday Page 16

Laudato Si’ Care of Our Common Home Pope Francis’ muchanticipated encyclical on the ‘Care of our Common Home’, Laudato Si’, was published on 18 June. To introduce the encyclical, Cardinal Vincent joined members of the press and pupils at Our Lady and St Joseph Primary School in Poplar. The morning began with an assembly in which the children sang the praises of God for His creative work. Cardinal Vincent explained to the pupils that the encyclical held a special message for them: 'Pope Francis wants you to remember to praise and thank God before you eat and again after you finish every meal.' Later, on the school roof, Cardinal Vincent explained that it was appropriate to introduce the encyclical in this particular setting because of ‘the children’s perception and sense of wonder about the world’ and that the encyclical was about ‘care for our common home: a home that is shared by current and future generations’. The school itself was built 'with great attention to the environment and is an example of what can be done for the future’. The backdrop of Canary Wharf was a reminder that 'enterprise and business structures of the world always need special scrutiny’. He sees the encyclical as 'a thoroughly Catholic document'

for many reasons: it is the latest in a long line of traditional teaching by previous Popes; its sweep is very wide and its vision is far-reaching; it is focused on the dignity of the person; it offers an ethical challenge as well as an invitation to dialogue; and, most of all, 'it is centred on the work of God and how that work comes into its fulfilment in the person of Jesus'. In the encyclical, the Holy Father ‘approaches the crisis in the world’s climate precisely because of its impact on people, and especially on the world’s poorest’. Its central concern is 'the dignity of the person' and our place in the created order. The document also looks at 'integral human development'. It 'welcomes the genius of enterprise’ but cautions that ‘profit alone is not a profound enough motive to drive ©Mazur/catholicnews.org.uk forward enterprise,’ noted the Cardinal. Laudato Si’ proposes an ethical framework that ‘challenges the notion that we live in a world in where perennial and almost infinite material progress is possible, a world in which we can expect more goods and more consumption’. This, says the Pope, ‘is a false ethical framework that creates a throwaway culture’ in both goods and people. Continued on page 3

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Editorial Westminster Record – Contact Us Editor Mgr Mark Langham Archbishop’s House, Ambrosden Avenue SW1P 1QJ Managing Editor Marie Saba 020 7798 9031 Inhouse writers Chris O’Callaghan, John Scott 020 7798 9030, and Hannah Woolley 020 7798 9178 Design Julian Game Proofing John Scott To order copies contact Andrea Black 0161 214 1216 or email andrea.black@thecatholicuniverse.com Print management and distribution by The Universe Media Group Ltd.

August publication dates Editorial deadline: 10 July 2015 Listings email: communications@rcdow.org.uk News and stories call 020 7798 9030 Email: communications@rcdow.org.uk Advertising deadline: 17 July 2015 To advertise contact Carol Malpass 0161 214 1244 or email carol.malpass@thecatholicuniverse.com Produced by the Communications Office of the Diocese of Westminster. News and articles published in the Westminster Record do not necessarily represent the views of the Diocese of Westminster, unless specifically stated otherwise. Appearance of advertisements does not imply editorial endorsement.

Westminster Record | July 2015

Stewardship Is Our Calling That truth is a key element of our Catholic education, and this month the Record reports on several of our schools which aim to impart a holistic education. There are articles on new building work at Sacred Heart School, the Golden Jubilee Mass at Blessed Sacrament School, and a wonderful art exhibition at St Patrick’s School. The publication of Laudato Si’, Our stewardship of creation Pope Francis’ encyclical on the must include stewardship of environment, has aroused the stewards! The great work interest from varied quarters, done by Apostleship of the Sea many not normally given to in providing pastoral care to any mention of the Catholic Catholic seamen (and women), Church, let alone favourable who are often away from home comment. and the sacraments for One of the most interesting elements of this document is its months, will be highlighted on Sea Sunday, 12 July, after global reach, not only in the Cardinal Vincent’s recent visit sense of being addressed to to Tilbury Docks. peoples of the world, but also With many other articles because it encompasses themes expressing the flourishing of not immediately thought of as religious, such as climate our Diocese even in the change, use of resources and vacation months, the team of care of the earth. Pope Francis the Record wishes you all reminds us that our faith is not some time to enjoy creation, to be stowed away in a preferably in the sun, this compartment, but rather to be summer! brought on parade every Sunday. It affects every aspect of our life; personal and social, and indeed, all of creation.

For more news from around the diocese throughout the month, please see

www.rcdow.org.uk where new stories are posted daily.

Cardinal Hume’s Legacy Remembered

Dr Robert Arnott with Bishop Nicholas in the Sacred Heart Chapel in the Centre

Friends of the Cardinal Hume Centre filled the Sacred Heart Chapel at the Centre on 16 June to celebrate Mass for Cardinal Hume on the 16th anniversary of his death. Page 2

The Mass was celebrated by Bishop Nicholas Hudson, a trustee of the Centre, and had the theme of ‘mercy’, ahead of the Holy Year of Mercy announced by Pope Francis which begins in December.

During the celebration, words of Cardinal Hume inspired and challenged those gathered. In his book, To Be A Pilgrim: A Spiritual Notebook, the Cardinal reflected that ‘God’s love is manifested in Jesus Christ… a love which is merciful… that understands the weakness of humanity’. This merciful approach to all those who come to the Centre for sanctuary is fundamental to its ethos. The Mass was also the first for Dr Robert Arnott as Chair of the Board of Trustees. Dr Arnott has replaced the late Paul Goggins MP, who died in January last year. He expressed his gratitude for all those involved with the Centre: ‘I am pleased to be able to thank all the volunteers and staff for their tireless work and commitment. Each one lives out the words of Cardinal Hume when he said, “Every person matters. No human life is redundant.”’ Follow us on Twitter at: twitter.com/RCWestminster

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Westminster Record | July 2015

Over 2,500 Join Corpus Christi Procession Around 2,500 Catholics showed a remarkable witness to Christ by joining the second Corpus Christi procession of the Blessed Sacrament in central London on Sunday 7 June. The procession began at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Farm Street and finished at St James’, Spanish Place with a stop en route at the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Holy Family in Exile next to Oxford Street. Before the procession set out, Cardinal Vincent said ‘today we take Jesus to our streets not as a stranger, but as King and Lord of creation’. He also thanked those in attendance for bearing witness to the Christ in such a visible way in the heart of the capital. The procession was led by Knights and Dames from the

Orders of Malta and the Holy Sepulchre. Children who had recently made their First Holy Communion dropped rose petals in front of Blessed Sacrament. The sight of the procession crossing Oxford Street on a busy Sunday afternoon was met with a mixture of perplexity and awe as shoppers paused and watched thousands file past. Members of the Order of Malta handed out small leaflets explaining what was happening and a great number pulled out mobile phones and tablet devices to record the event. It was clear that as the procession moved through the city, people were joining its ranks and by the time it reached Spanish Place for Benediction, the church was full with standing room only.

Fr Dominic Robinson SJ processes with the Blessed Sacrament through Mayfair

Knights from the Orders of Malta and the Holy Sepulchre lead the procession

Pope Francis Pleads for an ‘Ecological Conversion’ Continued from page 1

What is proposed instead is a ‘new framework where demand is moderated by ethical considerations rather than by market forces and manipulation’, in order to provide for ‘the integral longterm development of our world’. The encyclical explains that it is a false dichotomy to choose either the continued use of carbon fuels to alleviate poverty or to put in place strict measures to protect the environment. Instead, ‘the vision and technology’ are available which make both possible. ‘Economic development is necessary to alleviate poverty and, properly understood and designed, it is possible to do so in a way that serves the well-being of creation.’

The document also calls for an 'integral approach to ecology'. Drawing upon the practice of an examination of conscience at the end of the day, we are invited to consider 'how we have behaved in relation to the created world and its goods'. We are asked to look at what we waste, and how our lifestyle is contributing to a different culture. There is ‘no true ecological understanding without an adequate understanding of the place of the human person’. Thus we are challenged to an 'ecological conversion' in which 'we turn again to place centrally the mystery of God … humanity and our created things are not at the centre; God is at the centre. The more we usurp the throne of God, thinking that all these things are mine to use as I like,

the more we will exhaust all that has been entrusted to us in nature, the more we will continue to betray those who are left out and those who will follow behind us.' Cardinal Vincent explained that this encyclical presents 'a challenge to every person on the planet' and that the Pope is appealing for 'a new dialogue about how we shape the future of planet’ which must ‘include everyone since the environmental challenge and its human roots concern everyone about how we shape the future of the planet'. Laudato Si’ can downloaded from www.rcdow.org.uk/ cardinal/news/cardinal-vincentwelcomes-pope-francis-newencyclical/ or purchased from the CTS. Page 3

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Westminster Record September Westminster Record | 2011 July 2015

Spirit in the City Marks its 10th Birthday... Bishop Nicholas celebrated Mass as part of the Spirit in the City Festival at Our Lady of the Assumption and St Gregory, Warwick Street, on 11 June. 2015 marks the tenth year of the Festival, which celebrates Catholic life and worship in the West End of the capital. It is situated around four Churches: St Patrick’s in Soho, Corpus Christi in Covent Garden, Notre Dame de France off Leicester Square and Our Lady of the Assumption and St Gregory in Warwick Street.

In his homily Bishop Nicholas reflected on the Second Reading from St Paul’s 1st Letter to the Corinthians: ‘Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ’ (1 Cor 12:12). He explained that we are the many parts of this Body of Christ who come together in the Church and in the expression of our faith through the festival. He also spoke about the coming of the Kingdom and shared stories from his childhood about how his father would take him to visit elderly and disabled

neighbours, whose spirits would be raised by their visits. He spoke powerfully about his memory of one man whom his father helped and how he had sadly died with only Mr Hudson’s contact details on him to identify him. Bishop Nicholas ended his homily by saying: ‘In all of our lives we search for the Kingdom of God. The Kingdom is on our doorstep.’ After the Mass, there was a reception with live music on Golden Square behind the church to celebrate the Festival’s 10th birthday.

...while Youth 2000 turns 25

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Young Catholics and supporters of Youth 2000 gathered at St Patrick’s Church in Soho Square on Sunday 14 June to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the movement. Cardinal Vincent celebrated the Mass and was joined by priests who support its work. In his homily the Cardinal said: ‘Like the seed planted in good soil, Youth 2000 flourishes and bears rich fruit for the Lord.’ Active within the UK since 1990, its mission to bring young people into a personal relationship with Christ through weekend ‘prayer festivals’ where young people have an opportunity to attend Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, Confession and discussion of Scripture.

Cardinal Vincent joins Twitter

Cardinal Vincent has joined social networking site Twitter. He can be followed @CardinalNichols. Page 4

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Westminster Record | July 2015

Jubilarians Welcomed On Pilgrimage in Stunning Slovakia to Archbishop’s House By Nathan Lobo

Nine priests from the Diocese celebrating Silver and Golden anniversaries of their Ordination were invited to Archbishop’s House for Mass and lunch with Cardinal Vincent, Bishops John and Nicholas and Mgr Martin Hayes, the Vicar General, on 2 June. Celebrating their Silver Jubilees were Fr Ephrem Andom, Fr Michael Durand, Fr Saviour Grech, Mgr Mark Langham, Canon Peter Newby, Fr Terence Seasman, and Mgr Andrew Wadsworth. Fr Aidan Sharratt and Fr Francis Wahle are celebrating Golden anniversaries. We thank them for their faithful service to the Diocese over many years.

Celebrating Priesthood

Clergy of the Diocese gathered at Holy Apostles Church in Pimlico for the annual Day for Clergy on 17 June. As part of their ongoing formation and development as priests, they heard a lecture from Abbot Erik Varden OCSO, the newly elected Abbot of Mount St Bernard in Leicestershire. His talk entitled, 'Adam where are you? On becoming fully human', challenged and enlightened clergy on a scriptural subject many of them had not pondered before. After the talk, the clergy gathered in the church to celebrate Mass together during which Cardinal Vincent spoke about his recent encounter with the Catholic

Archbishop of Mosul and thanked the clergy for their ongoing ministry to the Diocese, especially those celebrating anniversaries of ordination this year.

During the first week of June, 14 university students from London, accompanied by Sr Mary Kenefick SMG, chaplain to the UCL Catholic Society, went on a post-exam pilgrimage to the High Tatras region in Slovakia, visiting several Catholic shrines and other places of interest. To prepare for the heavilypacked pilgrimage, we began with a few days’ rest at the environmental resort of Aquacity, set against the backdrop of the awe-inspiring High Tatras mountain range. We began at Marianská hora, the oldest pilgrimage site in Slovakia, which Pope St John Paul II visited 20 years ago. We continued to the town of Levoča, the impressive Spiš Castle and the exceptionally well-preserved ecclesiastical town of Spišská Kapitula. The following day we climbed the mountain to look at the spectacular view of the Slovakia-Poland border. This was followed by a day spent at Pilgrims visit the High Tatras Mountains Greek Catholic shrines, which was an eye-opening experience We spent the rest of the family collecting mushrooms. for many of the students, as it morning riding a traditional A fabulous Greek Catholic was their first encounter with wooden raft down the Dunajec basilica was recently built in an Eastern Catholic liturgical River which marks the border L’utina, where we were warmly rite. Although in communion between Poland and Slovakia. welcomed by seminarians who with the Pope, the Eastern Afterwards we explored the spoke to us about the shrines. Catholic Churches are in some fabulous basilica and town As St Alphonsus de Liguori ways different to the Roman square in Bardejov and visited writes: ‘In the first place, silence Catholic Church; for example, a the oldest wooden Roman is a great means of acquiring different calendar and liturgy is Catholic Church in Slovakia in used, and Eastern Catholic the village of Hervartov, where the spirit of prayer, and of disposing the soul to converse priests can be married. we marvelled at the The first shrine we visited continually with God’. After the craftsmanship and intricacy of was in the small village of stresses of the year just gone, it the design. Our final shrine Litmanová where Our Lady was good to be able to find visit of the pilgrimage was to appeared to two young girls, peace and silence to open our L’utina, the site where St Ivetka and Katka, between 1990 Nicholas appeared to a poor hearts to the Lord. and 1995. Pope Francis intends to visit this shrine next year as part of the World Youth Day celebrations in neighbouring Poland. The shrine holds fascinating similarities to the shrine at Lourdes. Br Michal, who gave us a guided tour, explained to us how, in one apparition, Mary blessed the nearby spring so that the water that flowed from the mountain would have healing powers. Our Lady requested that the Rosary be prayed and a special medal be made featuring her heart and a white lily, the sign of her purity. In front of the Church at the Marian shrine in Litmanová

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Westminster Record | July 2015

Cardinal Manning Remembered

Cardinal Vincent at the tomb of Cardinal Wiseman in the Cathedral crypt

On 9 June, the Feast of St Columba, Cardinal Vincent celebrated a Requiem Mass in Westminster Cathedral for Cardinals Wiseman and Manning, to commemorate

the 150th anniversary of the death of Cardinal Wiseman and the consecration of Henry Edward Manning as the 2nd Archbishop of Westminster.

Fr Nicholas Schofield, the diocesan archivist, delivered the homily, in which he recalled the lives and legacy of these two great cardinals: 'Though neither of them lived to see the building of this cathedral, it is appropriate that they lie directly below the sanctuary in the crypt, their tombs almost acting as foundation stones because all that this cathedral and Diocese are about today are a direct result of their bold vision and their courageous labours.' Although very different in so many ways, they shared an 'essential unity of purpose'. They wanted to 'build up the Church so that she could effectively serve the growing numbers of Catholics.' Recalling their legacy, he continued: 'Their concern was

to build churches, open schools, establish religious houses and care for the marginalized. They wanted an educated and holy laity, served by well-trained and diligent priests. They were concerned with the breaking down of the barriers imposed by anti-Catholic prejudice, then so much part of the English psyche, and they wanted the Church’s vision to extend beyond the Catholic community so that it could work for the common good.' Saying it was fitting to take a moment to reflect on the past and 'honour our founding fathers', he reminded those present that we are 'links in a great chain of faith'. He said: 'Circumstances change, but it is the same faith in Christ Jesus, the same need for a

living relationship with Him, that needs to be proclaimed and passed on.' After Mass, Cardinal Vincent prayed at the tombs of the two Cardinals in the crypt of the Cathedral.

Archives Mark Manning’s Accession By Fr Nicholas Schofield Realising that this year was the 150th anniversary of the death of our first Archbishop, Cardinal Nicholas Wiseman, and the appointment of his successor, Henry Edward Manning, the Diocesan Archive decided to arrange a modest commemoration. Firstly, a small exhibition was erected at Westminster Cathedral, in St Patrick’s Chapel, a fitting location given the concern these two men showed towards the Irish Catholic community. A rather imposing photograph of Manning wearing a full-length padded coat was blown up to life size to welcome visitors to the exhibition. Inside there were various artefacts, including a record of debates from Manning’s time as President of the Oxford Union, a book owned by his wife, the mitre he wore at the First Vatican Council, a shoe given to him by Blessed Pius IX and a letter from Blessed John Henry Newman. The panels dealt with such subjects as the legacy of Wiseman, Manning’s social outreach and his work (often Page 6

hidden) as a spiritual director and writer. Many forget, for example, that he wrote two books on the Holy Spirit, at that time a relatively neglected aspect of Catholic devotion. To accompany the exhibition, a conference was held at Our Lady of Victories on 9 May, entitled ‘From Wiseman to Manning: Fresh Perspectives’, the first day conference organised by the Archive. Speakers included Professor Jacqueline ClaisGirard of the Université d’Angers (France) on Manning’s concern for the underprivileged which earned him the title ‘the People’s Cardinal’ and Dr Serenhedd James from St Stephen’s House, Oxford, who looked at the troubled relationship between Wiseman, Manning, Errington (for a time Coadjutor Bishop of Westminster) and the Oblates of St Charles, a diocesan community of priests based at Bayswater. Manning’s relationships with Prime Minister William Gladstone and Newman were briefly dealt with by Dr Peter Erb (Wilfrid

Cardinal Manning’s tomb in the crypt of the Cathedral

Laurier University, Canada) and Rev Dr Stephen Morgan (St Benet’s Hall, Oxford) respectively. Professor Stewart Brown from the University of Edinburgh looked at Manning’s surprising friendship with the nonCatholic journalist W. T. Stead. Best known perhaps for dying on the Titanic, Stead joined

forces with Manning to put an end to child prostitution and raise the age of consent. As can be seen, while both Cardinals were remembered, the spotlight was very definitely on Manning, partly because the Diocesan Archive recently acquired a major new deposit of Manning’s papers from France but also because

his reputation has suffered since his death and he was badly served by his first biographers Edmund Purcell and Lytton Strachey. It is hoped that this year’s anniversary has raised awareness of this fascinating period of our history and led to a more balanced appraisal of his legacy. Follow us on Twitter at: twitter.com/RCWestminster

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Westminster Record | July 2015

Preparing to Proclaim

©Holy Trinity Brompton

Nicky Gumbel, Archbishop Justin Welby and Cardinal Vincent at the Alpha Leadership Conference earlier this year

By Bishop Nicholas Hudson Proclaim ’15 is set to move up at least two gears on Saturday 11th July when 800 delegates will gather in Birmingham, and, it is hoped, every parish in the land will come together in prayer. Fifty members of our diocese will represent us: one chosen from every deanery, plus representatives of Youth Ministry, the Cathedral Chapter, the Council of Priests, the Council of Deans, the Seminary, the Agencies for Evangelisation, Marriage & Family Life, Caritas, schools, universities, catechetical coordinators, and several others. They will join delegates from every diocese in England and Wales, present with their bishops. It promises to be the most memorable evangelisation event of this generation! Delegates will hear keynote addresses from Cardinal Vincent, Archbishop Bernard Longley, Nicky Gumbel,

pioneer of the Alpha course and Michelle Moran, a member of the Pontifical Council for the Laity. There will be eleven workshops on topics as varied as how to create a vision and strategy for parish evangelisation; how to form a parish evangelisation team; how to evangelise the young people of your parish; how to reach out to those who have had no experience of Church; how to share your testimony in one-to-one evangelisation; how to reach out to non-churchgoing Catholics; and five others. These workshops will be led by skilled practitioners ranging from Br Loarne Ferguson and Fiona Mansford to Fr Gareth Leyshon and Anne-Marie Salgo. The fruits of all this input and reflection will be gathered into a Proclaim ’15 legacy document, to be published on 20 September, Home Mission Sunday. This online resource will contain audio and video

recordings of the keynote addresses, of the workshop inputs and of interviews with the workshop leaders. Each leader will give his or her three top tips for evangelisation; and the resource will gather from the workshop inputs six to ten key points for evangelisation. So the resource will offer some 60 to a hundred ideas for evangelisation. These you can begin to discuss straightaway in your parishes or wait for us to process them at our own Proclaim Westminster conference on Saturday 14 November this year. Full information and a 20page booklet are to be found at www.catholicnews.org.uk/Ho me/Special-Events/Proclaim15-Building-MissionaryParishes/EvangelisationPrayer Do make sure everyone in your parish has this date in their diary!

Sacred Heart Opens New Parish Centre and Annexe

On the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, 12 June, Cardinal Vincent celebrated Mass at Sacred Heart parish in Holloway and opened the new parish centre and St Margaret Mary Annexe, which is being shared between the parish and Sacred Heart Primary School. The Mass was concelebrated by Fr Gideon Wagay, Parish Priest of Holloway, and Fr David Irwin, Episcopal Vicar for Ethnic Chaplaincies. In his homily Cardinal Vincent spoke of the image of the heart. He focused particularly on four hearts: the red one in the stained glass window above the altar, the blue one on the uniform of the children, the heart used in the logo of the British Heart Foundation and hearts used on Valentine’s Day. ‘The Sacred Heart window and the school badge are a reminder of Jesus’ love, which takes root in our lives and even when surrounded by thorns, survives all’, he said. He explained to the children that the British Heart Foundation looks after our hearts, the body’s most important organ; so when that fails, our body fails too. The hearts on cards and balloons shared on Valentine’s Day are a visible reminder of our love for each other, in families and among couples, as Jesus shows that He wants what is best for us in sharing the joy in His heart. Finally, the Cardinal pointed out that the Church, the parish and the school are all part of the constantly beating heart of Jesus ‘whose love is stronger than death’. At the end of the Mass, headteacher John Lane asked the Cardinal to present Mrs Ann Reid with a Diocesan medal and scroll to mark her 40 years of service in Catholic education teaching ‘all ages and all subjects’. Mrs Reid has recently left Sacred Heart School to return to her native Ireland but had re-joined the school community on the day to celebrate the occasion. After the Mass, everyone processed across the road to the new parish centre and annexe for the blessing. The new building is much needed by the parish as a social space and by the school so that it can accept two-form entry. After the Cardinal had blessed the building, John Lane and Laura King, Chair of Governors, thanked all those who had helped to achieve this successful project together. Page 7

News Good Shepherds Flock to the Cathedral the children and how Jesus continually presents us with the gift of His love. He also spoke about the imagery of the fish in the early Church and how early Christians would use it as a secret symbol of their allegiance to Christ, instead of the pagan gods worshipped by the Romans. The fish was chosen because the letters of the Greek word for fish - (ΙΧθΥΣ) – could

The Cathedral was filled twice over on 4 June as primary schools of the Diocese attended the Good Shepherd Mass celebrated by Bishop John in the morning and Cardinal Vincent in the afternoon. The Mass, organised by the Catholic Children’s Society, annually celebrates the generosity of diocesan primary schools, as

also stand for ‘Jesus, Son of God, Saviour’. To celebrate this imagery, new paintings of fishes commissioned by the Children’s Society were dotted around the Cathedral and students from schools had decorated a fish outline, and these were displayed on large banners hanging between the pillars of the nave.

they present the fruits of their fundraising efforts to the Society. In the afternoon Mass, Cardinal Vincent reflected on the Gospel reading of the miracle of five loaves and two fish. He spoke about the empty basket at the front of the Cathedral and how it would be filled by the gifts presented by

Westminster Record | July 2015

St Augustine’s Priory ‘Races for Life’ On 7 June 160 girls, parents and staff from St Augustine’s Priory, Ealing, took part in Cancer Research’s ‘Race for Life’ in Richmond, raising over £4,700 in the process. Runners, joggers and walkers all completed the course wearing pink wigs, tutus and leg warmers. There were battles between mothers and daughters trying to beat one another and both Mrs Higham and Mrs Wilson were bested by their daughters. Lucy Kerr in Year 2 and Claudia Bileckyj in Year 1 were the youngest runners, completing the course with a mixture of running and walking. Olivia Agrotis in Year 8 was the first St Augustine’s runner home in around 20 minutes. Mrs Sarah Raffray, Headteacher of St Augustine’s, said: ‘It is powerful that nearly a quarter of the school ran for such a great cause and the contribution of mothers and grandmothers sums up what a tremendous community there is at St Augustine’s’.

Blessed Sacrament School Celebrates 50th Birthday Budding Camden Artists on Show

Pupils, staff and parents gathered at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Primary School, Islington, on 12 June for a Mass to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the school's opening in September 1965. Bishop Nicholas celebrated the Mass and was joined by Mgr Seamus O’Boyle, Parish Priest of Islington. Daniel Kamara, a Foundation Governor, Page 8

welcomed everybody to the Mass and thanked all those who had contributed to the life of the school over the years, including past students and staff who were present for the anniversary. In his homily Bishop Nicholas spoke about the importance of primary schools as the foundation for all education. Coincidentally, he had started primary school in 1965, and had brought along

his primary school blazer and hat to show the pupils. The school choir sang beautifully throughout the Mass and other pupils joined in enthusiastically to make it a truly joyful occasion. At the end of the Mass, headteacher Norah Flatley presented Maria Bird with a gift in gratitude for her 30 years of outstanding service to the school as a teaching assistant.

On Wednesday 10 June pupils, parents and staff of St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School, Camden, gathered eagerly in the school hall to view an art exhibition that featured artwork from every child in the school. Pupils worked with Esther Adesigbin, the school’s artist in residence, to produce individual pieces that reflected each child’s best work. The purpose of the exhibition was to give every child the opportunity to express themselves through art, and for pupils and teachers to develop their artistic skills. Headteacher Mr Sean Cranitch said that ‘the school builds on the talents of every child and gives them the opportunity to express

themselves in a variety of ways.’ Each class used a particular theme to inspire their art and each child brought their individual flare and ideas to their piece. Pupils put a great amount of thought into their finished pieces, drawing on inspiration from a variety of areas to put a unique stamp on their work. Stephanie Joy in Year 5 called her pop art self-portrait ‘Red Joy’ which was inspired by her name, which in Greek means ‘crown’. To signify ‘joy’, she wanted the piece to be very festive, so used bright colours to create this mood. Jordan and Archelann from Year 6 explained how they had developed their pieces based on Viking long ships. Follow us on Twitter at: twitter.com/RCWestminster

Schools News

Westminster Record | July 2015

Epic Bike Ride for St Gildas’ Centenary As part of the celebrations marking the centenary of the founding of St Gildas’ Primary School by the Sisters of St Gildas in Crouch End, a Centenary Bike Ride took place on the weekend of 20-21 June from Yeovil to Crouch End in north London. Twenty parents and staff cycled 150 miles from the original St Gildas’ School in Yeovil, Somerset, to Crouch End to raise money for the school redevelopment project, most particularly the £25,000 needed to fund the redevelopment of the playground area as a multi-use games area (MUGA). The intrepid cyclists, many of whom

haven't been on a bike since childhood, arrived at Crouch End in the early afternoon on Sunday 21 June where they were given a huge welcome with a family picnic at St Aloysius Playing Field. Crouch End traders sponsored individual riders and have helped boost the fundraising target. At the time of going to press, nearly £21,000 had been raised by the cyclists for St Gildas’ School. To help them achieve their target of £25,000, please donate at: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.co m/team/stgildas

St Dominic’s Walk for St Luke’s Hospice On a beautiful sunny Saturday morning in June, the staff of St Dominic's Sixth Form College, Harrow, took part in a five mile sponsored walk to raise money and awareness for St Luke's Hospice, a local centre in Kenton which provides palliative care for terminally ill patients. Dressed in specially commissioned t-shirts provided by Clothing Express and selling wrist bands at a stall in the grounds of St Luke’s, the walkers arrived in time to join the hospice’s annual fete, which raised £3,000 on the day with various activities and events taking place throughout the afternoon. Vice Principal of St Dominic’s, Nicola Walsh, was delighted to announce that over £1,000 had been raised so far for this local charity and said that all of the people involved in this great day not only enjoyed the untypically warm summer weather but, most importantly, learnt of the vital work that St Luke's does and of its need to raise over £3 million each year. She also thanked Ellen Dunford, Finance Officer and Staff Well Being Co-Coordinator, for organising this event. Follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/diocese.westminster

Papal Awards in South Ruislip On 3 June, Bishop John Sherrington awarded Sean Sinclair and Tim McCarthy from St Gregory the Great parish, Ruislip South, with Papal Awards for their service to the parish and St Swithun Wells, the local primary school. The ceremony was held in the school itself, where both men have been outstanding witnesses to Catholic education. Sean was nominated for his work with

those in need, particularly those with learning difficulties and his work to ensure St Swithun Wells is now ‘Outstanding’ in its latest Ofsted report. Tim was described by parish priest of Ruislip South, Mgr Paul McGinn, as ‘an invaluable helper…a most trustworthy and committed volunteer and for 18 years an exemplary member of the Governing Body of St Swithun Wells’. Page 9

Vocations

Westminster Record | July 2015

Six Men Ordained to the Diaconate Saturday 13 June, the Feast of St Anthony of Padua, saw the ordination of five men to the diaconate by Bishop John Sherrington. Christian de Lisle, Damian Ryan, Tony Thomas and Chinedu Udo were ordained for the Diocese of Westminster, while Daniel Palmer was ordained for the Diocese of Nottingham. The Ordination Mass was concelebrated by priests from both dioceses. During the homily Bishop John reminded the men that they were 'called to offer people a message of hope and the

promise of God’s steadfast love,' inviting them 'to recognise and accept the mercy of God' and 'allow themselves to be drawn into His friendship'. He reminded the men that as they 'proclaim the gospel, so you are called to be a messenger of joy'. 'This joy,' he continued, 'is to be borne in your faces because joy is attractive and infectious and will make people think about how you find meaning in your lives.' As the men prepare for priestly ordination next year,

Bishop John prays the Ordination Prayer over the new Deacons in the Cathedral

Bishop John told them that their ministry as deacons 'will always be a reminder that you are always a deacon and so called to service and to stay close to the chalice of suffering in the lives of your people.' During the Rite of Ordination the men were reminded of the commitment they are assuming when Bishop John spoke these words: 'By your life and character you will give witness to your brothers and sisters in faith that God must be loved above all else, and that it is he whom you serve in others.' Meanwhile in Rome on 17

June Tom Montgomery, who has been a student at the Beda College for the last four years, was ordained to the diaconate at the Basilica of St-Paul-Outsidethe-Walls. Afterwards he said: ‘I was so conscious during the ordination of being carried in the prayers of friends and family. It was a real opportunity for me to give thanks to God for all of the graces He has given to me on what has been a long journey to this moment of ordination. A few days ago Cardinal Vincent sent me an email saying “Abandon yourself totally to God and He won’t let you down” and I was

praying with those words during the ordination as well. I give thanks to God for these last four years in Rome at the Beda College and now I am really looking forward to returning to the diocese and spending the next year as a deacon with Fr Duncan Adamson in Ruislip. It has been a great journey so far and I look forward to seeing where God leads me in the years ahead.’ The other five men will continue their formation at Allen Hall towards ordination to the priesthood in 2016.

Deacon Tom with Fr Michael Daley, Parish Priest of Kingsland

Six Men Admitted to Candidacy for the Diocese On Saturday 30 May six seminarians were admitted to Candidacy at a Mass celebrated by Bishop Nicholas at Allen Hall, the diocesan seminary. Between them Joseph Okoro, John Scott, Michael Maguire, Julio Albornoz, Daniel Herrero and Carlos Quito represent the international nature of the Church, coming from Nigeria, Spain, the UK, the US and Venezuela. In his homily, Bishop Nicholas spoke about the significance of Candidacy in the process of formation for the Priesthood. He described it as a point when ‘your relationship to priesthood changes’ and it is a ‘moment to take stock; and to ask yourself just how deeply you feel called to priesthood.’ Candidacy marks the stage in formation when the Church affirms the seminarians' discernment thus far and therefore invites them to a renewed and deeper preparation in their remaining studies, normally for two years.

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For more information on vocations please contact Fr Richard Nesbitt richardnesbitt@rcdow.org.uk or 020 7349 5624 If you have a story or an event you would like to have featured on this page, please contact communications@rcdow.org.uk or 020 7798 9030

Vocations

Westminster Record | July 2015

A Benedictine’s Journey Dom Ambrose is a Benedictine monk of Ealing Abbey who will be ordained to the priesthood in July. ‘I have known from the age of 10 that I wanted to be a priest. I began the journey of formation when I was 21 in Ireland, but it was not meant to be. I qualified as a Secondary School teacher and at the age of 29 left Dublin to build a life in London. I spent nearly four years working with young adults with severe learning difficulties on the autistic spectrum. This experience grounded me and deepened my sense of vocation, which faced me again when a close friend was ordained in 2005. But still my tentative steps didn’t take me any further. However, in September 2009, the desire to respond emerged again with such force that I knew I had to confront it. Ealing Abbey was the only option for me. There has always been a Benedictine presence in my life. My brothers went to school at Glenstal Abbey in County Limerick and we had family summer holidays near Kylemore Abbey in County Galway, where the two sisters of my Parish Priest were nuns. These nuns often visited my parish of Rathgar. Finally, my mother spent a lot of her early years at Ealing, where I visited as a child and am now a monk of the Abbey. I entered in February 2010 and, although the last five years have challenged every fibre of my being, it was during the Liturgy of the Hours that moments of consolation and the discerning process found their reassurance and the strength that this is the Lord’s plan for me. Throughout my life and indeed reinforced over the last five years, the “conversation” between prayer and pastoral activity has been porous, where one constantly challenges and informs the other. I have found this at Ealing and I give thanks to God and the generosity of both the monastic community and people of the parish for the journey so far.’

‘Be Brave and Trust in the Lord’

Deacon David assists Cardinal Vincent at the Mass of taking possession of the titular church in Rome

©Mazur/catholicnews.org.uk

Fr Richard Nesbitt spoke to Deacon David Burke as he prepared for ordination to the priesthood on 27 June. As you come to the end of your time at the Beda College in Rome, how do you look back on your time in seminary? It’s been a remarkable four years! One of my most vivid memories was of the day the Vice-rector came into the photocopier room in my second year and said, ‘Have you heard the news that the Pope has resigned?’ Being around Rome during that time was extraordinary. Then a month or so later, the evening we received the ministry of Acolyte was the night that we learnt of the election of Pope Francis, so we all rushed to St Peter’s to be with him and the crowds of people on that historic night. That’s one of the things about being a seminarian in Rome; you really do experience the Universal Church. The Beda College itself, which has been my home for these last four years, is a very international community with students from every continent except South America. That in itself has been a very powerful lesson for me. On a more local, ‘Westminster’ level, it was a real highlight to be here when Cardinal Vincent received his red hat and then took possession of his titular church as a cardinal. I’ve also been very blessed over the last 12 months of my diaconal year, having served as a deacon in St Peter’s and also in St Paul’s Basilica. And any challenges? Yes, there have certainly been challenges. It is hard sometimes being so far away from family and friends. You can’t just call someone and meet up, so you need a kind of

emotional stamina while you are here. But I really do thank God for these four years and for the Cardinal’s wisdom in sending me here. In what ways do you think you have grown most during these years? The Beda is a college for men with later vocations and so inevitably we all bring a lot of baggage and life experience with us. I am 40 later this year so this time has really allowed me to reflect on the map of my life, of the journey travelled and to see God’s hand more clearly in that. Before I came out here I had worked as the Youth Director for the Diocese, which I loved, but it had been non-stop. I have always been a doer but seminary has helped me to become more reflective. The time in Rome has given me the opportunity to stand back, to understand myself better and to learn from others. In many ways it is not easy suddenly being thrown into a community with more than 60 other men from around the world. That took me way beyond my comfort zone. But this experience has allowed me to discern God’s will and whether or not He wants me to become a priest. I felt from an early age that God was calling me to the priesthood, but I sat on the fence for many years. I think I also didn’t feel worthy of the priesthood and I was anxious about what seminary might be like, maybe a kind of adult boarding school. But these four years have shown me that we grow best when we are in community as we learn together, often through little everyday

things. I have allowed God into my life in a new way while I have been here. I have learnt that I have many God-given talents and that they have been given to me for a purpose. And what this time has really confirmed for me, through the help and support of the formation team here and through my own prayer, is that God’s purpose for my life is indeed for me to be a priest. And that is a great joy! Now you return to England to be ordained to the priesthood with four other men from our Diocese on 27 June. How do you feel as that day draws ever nearer? I think I feel a lot calmer than I did a year ago when I was ordained a deacon! It has been a really blessed year and now I feel ready for my new life as a priest. This is not really about me at the end of the day, it is about the Lord working through me and the last year has really deepened my trust in Him. I am sure as well that in many ways my real formation will begin on 27 June when I am immediately thrown into the deep end of life as a priest. But I know that I will not be in this alone. I have been very humbled by the number of family and friends who are coming to the ordination who have journeyed with me over the years and have been an incredible support to me. I know that I will need them and most of all I will need God’s constant care for the years ahead, but I know He will be there for me. From September I will become the assistant priest at Burnt Oak. I was able to visit the

parish a couple of weeks ago and meet Canon Colin Davies, the parish priest, and some of the parishioners who had heard I was coming. They gave me a tremendous welcome which really touched me. They obviously love their priests! It gave me an awareness of a whole new life opening up with all kinds of new relationships awaiting me. I will do my best to serve them faithfully and I know that I will learn so much from them all in the years ahead. Would you have any advice for anyone reading this who is discerning the same call to the priesthood? Just be brave and trust in God as He wants the best for us so just trust and let Him lead you step by step. Most people who come to seminary are guided to know that God is indeed calling them to become a priest and their journey through seminary prepares them for this life of ministry. But there are a few for whom it becomes clear that priesthood is not God’s deepest desire for their lives. But they get to know themselves so much better because of their time in seminary and they become a better husband, a better single person. I can see that if someone has a good job, a nice car… that these can be difficult to leave behind. But these things ultimately don’t satisfy us. Really giving your life to God, whatever He asks of you, is the path to true happiness. So be brave and let God show you what that deepest happiness is to be for you. Page 11

Vocations

Westminster Record | July 2015

Bishop John prays the Ordination Prayer over the new Deacons in the Cathedral

Deacon Tom with Fr Michael Daley, Parish Priest of Kingsland

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Vocations

Westminster Record | July 2015

‘Be Brave and Trust in the Lord’

Deacon David assists Cardinal Vincent at the Mass of taking possession of the titular church in Rome

©Mazur/catholicnews.org.uk

Youth

Westminster Record | July 2015

Director’s Spotlight: Goodbye and Welcome

One of our stalwarts (not sure that phrase will go down that well) is leaving and not even the offer of more cakes from my wife, Ann, had any

material effect on the decision to depart. I tried everything and I really thought that the cake trick was spot on after being assured that bribery was always a winner! Christine Sterlini has brought real joy and energy into our team and no shortage of humour. Throughout her time with us, and previously as a volunteer missionary at our SPEC Retreat Centre, her work with the youth of the Diocese has been engaging, faithful and loads of fun. Fr David recently referred to Christine thus: ‘everdramatic (over-dramatic?)’ To be absolutely fair,©CAFOD Christine’s kindness and loving approach makes her a nurse in waiting and we hope

and pray that her dreams to enter this wonderful profession come to pass. We’re all sure it will happen. Of course, not wanting to miss a trick, I see an ideal candidate for our medical support needs at future pilgrimages. It would be churlish not to ask. With Christine leaving we present someone else with an opportunity and our longstanding desire to promote from within sees the team being joined by Callum Moore who is currently a

SPEC Volunteer Missionary, having previously been a volunteer at The Briars. Callum has done a splendid job at SPEC and has latterly supported a number of our Youth Ministry initiatives, so it will hopefully be a smooth transition. Grass is certainly not growing under his feet as Callum joins us at Lourdes in July and Taize in August. Welcome to the team, Callum; and sad to see you go, Christine.

Events

Performing Arts weekend Friday 16 October – Sunday 18 October Focolare Centre, 69 Parkway, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6ED World Youth Day pilgrimage Monday 18 July 2016 – Sunday 31 July 2016 Krakow, Poland For additional information on any of these upcoming events, please contact us on our social media channels or email: youth@rcdow.org.uk

Chaplain’s Corner Fr David Reilly, Diocesan Youth Chaplain

In July we will take part in the Proclaim `15 conference at Birmingham. This is the beginning of a national initiative which aims to support the work of evangelisation in our parishes. There will be groups from all over the country but also from different sectors of ministry in the dioceses and deaneries. It was important that we represent the youth service of the Diocese of Westminster at this event, because young people will be essential to the present and future proclamation of the Gospel. Sometimes people wonder why young people do not seem to share their experience of life in the Church. These days we undoubtedly live in changed times. As adults we must acknowledge that the future for Christian leadership, ministry and evangelisation will be distinctly different from what we experienced in the past or in our childhood. Perhaps part of Page 12

us, rather than wanting to evangelise our young people, really wants them to simply share our own experience of the Church as it was ‘in our day’. We must overcome these temptations and insecurities. While the Church guards the deposit of faith, God also has the power to work out his purposes in new and surprising ways. We cannot simply ask our young people to share our own past, but must rather proclaim the Gospel to them by our teaching and example. Similarly, we should allow ourselves to be evangelised by ©Mazur/catholicnews.org.uk them, learning from their new insights and being strengthened by their lively faith. We are fortunate in our parishes, schools and movements to have many wonderful young people. The Gospel has the power to penetrate their hearts and bring about faith. May that wonderful power work in us too as we all move forward together in this new evangelisation.

To find out more about the Youth Ministry and experiences of our young people at: dowym.org.uk.

Follow Westminster Youth Ministry on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/doywm

Follow Westminster Youth Ministry on Twitter at: twitter.com/dowym

See photos of youth events at: http://flickr.com/ photos/catholicwestminster

Parish Profile

Westminster Record | July 2015

Copenhagen Street: A Resilient Community By Hannah Woolley As I walk up to Copenhagen Street from Kings Cross, I am unsure what to expect from my visit to the Church of the Blessed Sacrament. Copenhagen Street has no resident Parish Priest and is served from Islington by Mgr Seamus O’Boyle, Fr Martin Plunkett and Fr Lawrence Milby. Most parishes are shaped by the Parish Priest who is at the heart of the community, but this guiding figure is not present in the same way as in other parishes. The church is a five minute walk down Copenhagen Street, not far from the building developments behind Kings Cross Station and the canal. The area around the church has high levels of social deprivation, and a large amount of social housing. During World War II the area behind Kings Cross was devastated and only recently have new developments begun to revitalise what was a seemingly forgotten area. The parish has a large South American and African community, particularly Eritreans, while older generations in the area tend to be Irish. Mgr Seamus describes the local population as

transitory; many people settle here when they first arrive in London, but cannot afford to stay for a great length of time. However, there is a core parish community and Mgr Seamus tells me that Sunday Mass attendance is consistently around 200 and that the 11am Mass is particularly lively. The church was opened by Cardinal Bourne in June 1916 and celebrates its 100th anniversary next year. Over the past century the church building has gone through many changes, including an extension in 1959 which almost doubled its size, though this has been reversed in the succeeding years. The former presbytery has recently been renovated by the Brothers of St John of God, and will be used as the next step for people supported by their project, Olallo House, which helps newly-arrived migrants who have no recourse to public funds to prevent them falling into homelessness. The parish and then Parish Priest, Fr Jim Kennedy, were instrumental in the pastoral care following the Kings Cross fire that killed 31 people in November 1987. Fr Jim coordinated care across the

The plaque remembering those who died in the Kings Cross fire of 1989

The altar of Copenhagen Street parish with its wooden beamed roof

faith communities with the emergency services, a response which was renewed again after the July 2005 terrorist attacks. The parish still remembers those who died in a gathering and Mass of Commemoration each year, and a plaque at the back of the church names all 31 victims of the fire. Blessed Sacrament Primary School, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year (see page 8), is a real asset to the parish and supports many children and families through a variety of social outreach projects, such as Magic Breakfasts and the MPACT Plus project, which supports children whose parents are victims of addiction. In recognition of the work at the school, the Duchess of Cambridge and John Bishop visited last year to learn about the MPACT Plus project and to check on its progress. Magic Breakfast works in schools where over 35% of children receive free school meals to provide children with a healthy, filling breakfast which will improve their concentration, behaviour and attainment throughout the day. Copenhagen Street is very fortunate to be supported by two School Sisters of Notre Dame who arrived in the parish

around six years ago. Sr Miriam is the pastoral assistant and provides invaluable support to the parish, particularly given that there is no resident priest. She organises many activities including coffee mornings for mothers from the primary school and a Filipino group that meets each month for a social event. These may seem like small, simple actions, but they are valuable to the community and give parishioners an opportunity to meet other people and support each other. After I had visited the parish, I spoke to Sr Miriam about her experience and involvement there. She spoke very fondly of the community, and believes that they show a growing sense of confidence and commitment to take on responsibility because there is no resident Parish Priest to drive and sustain parish groups. There hasn’t been a resident priest for six years and, recognising the reality of this situation, the core community provides the stability needed within the parish. Sr Miriam introduced a survey to the parish called ‘Time and Talent’ asking parishioners what they could offer and what things they would like to see introduced at Copenhagen Street. There is a

desire to forge greater links between the school and the parish, and there has already been a choir and craft event attended by pupils of Blessed Sacrament, which culminated in the children leading the singing at the Sunday Mass. Through small initiatives like this momentum and enthusiasm is building amongst the community and the parish is hosting a party of appreciation for parish volunteers, of whom there are around 50. Sr Miriam believes that the call of the parish is to keep strengthening the core community and to take on greater responsibility to build up and strengthen the parish as a whole. Copenhagen Street may not be large, but it has shown resilience as a community in the face of great change over the past six years, which is a reflection of the parishioners’ commitment to their faith and the work of Sr Miriam and Sr Rosemary. Founded: 1916 Mass Times: 8.30, 11 (Family, Sung) Address: 157 Copenhagen Street N1 0SR Telephone: 020 7226 3277 Website: parish.rcdow.org.uk/ copenhagenstreet Page 13

Chaplaincy

Westminster Record | July 2015

Visiting in Hospitals: What Can I Do for You? by Fr Peter Michael Scott These days our most common way of saying hello is: ‘how are you?’ I used to brush the question aside by replying ‘okay’, now I find myself using the American response ‘good!’ I do not think I have ever given an honest reply detailing my worries and anxieties. So my answer is not particularly truthful. However, in hospital, if a doctor or nurse asks a patient: ‘how are you?’ they want an honest and detailed reply. Thankfully, patients know not to play the hospital game and they readily reveal wounds and talk about sleepless nights and, maybe, intolerance to medication. The seemingly innocuous greeting: ‘how are you?’ is a powerful question in hospital. So as a visitor going into hospital, what should I say? Perhaps Jesus can give us a clue. When He came across someone who was sick He

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looked at them, and must have put them at ease, so much so, that they always told Him what they wanted. Our visits must reflect His ease and His calm. A gentle warm ‘hello’ is a good start and ‘it is so lovely to see you’ can break the ice to start a visit. Noticing ‘get well’ cards or the flotsam and jetsam around the bedside can continue a conversation without being too inquisitive. Of course, we want to find out how they are, but we must respect that it is their choice to tell us. Jesus never asked: ‘how are you?’ Rather He asked: ‘what can I do for you?’ As a visitor to a friend in hospital, that can be a beautiful question. Their answer may be as simple as ‘can you cancel the milk?’ or more spiritual such as ‘can you remember me in your prayers?’ But having avoided the ‘how are you?’ their answer is their

decision and they will respect and value your visit more. Jesus was remarkably sensitive with the sick; He always respected their choices. When He asked: ‘what can I do

for you?’ they could have replied: ‘you can go away’, and He would have loved them and walked away. Our visits must be as equally as sensitive. ‘How are you?’ is a question

for doctors and nurses; it may be one to avoid for a wellmeaning visitor. Fr Peter Michael Scott is the Cardinal’s Advisor for Healthcare Chaplaincy.

Social Action

Westminster Record | July 2015

MPs Called To Act on Climate Change mural was created as people from all faiths and none left personal messages, prayers and commitments to lead greener lives. The rally finished off the day in style with inspiring speeches from Olympic rower Andrew Hodge, young campaigners and Christian, Jewish and Muslim leaders, punctuated by short films and music. Sophie Dodgeon, Head of Campaigns at CAFOD, was at the lobby and said: ‘Opportunities like this don’t come around often and the Catholic community has really seized the day. We showed those who represent us in Parliament that we are stronger together and that we will not keep silent about injustice and poverty. As we await the Pope’s encyclical, today’s lobby is a sign of hope

that a cleaner, greener world is possible and proof that we’re willing to speak up for it.’ Amber Rudd, the government’s Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, responded to the day’s strong call for action by stressing the need to act internationally and at home. ‘The people who are really suffering are those in the poorest countries. We have to address this with climate finance,’ she said at an evening event following the Speak Up lobby. ‘This is national issue, not a party issue. All MPs have to engage. The new climate economy and low carbon economy means there is fantastic opportunity to lead. Which country will lead and drive to create green energy? I think this will be the UK.’

L-R: the Rt Rev Nick Holtham, Bishop of Salisbury, the Rt Rev Jonathan Clark, Bishop of Croydon, Dr Richard Cheetham, Bishop of Kingston and Bishop John at the ecumenical service

On 17 June at least 9,000 people, including CAFOD supporters from every diocese, met with newly elected MPs to talk about climate change and the devastating impact it is having on people living in poverty overseas. These warnings were also echoed in Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ which was released the following day. In what was the biggest ever climate lobby of Parliament, almost half of all MPs were asked

to tackle climate change and deliver 100 per cent clean, safe energy by 2050 by groups ranging from the Women’s Institute to Greenpeace. Armed with colourful bunting, CAFOD members and supporters joined the thousands who queued along Millbank and the south side of the Thames to talk to MPs. At the start of the day, Bishop John Sherrington took part in an ecumenical service at

St Margaret’s Church, in which Christians from different denominations gathered to praise God. They heard from CAFOD’s Caroline Swahili about the impact climate change is having on communities in East Africa. A parallel service took place in the Emmanuel Centre where CAFOD young climate bloggers took part in a symbolic action to show our commitment to care for creation. In Archbishop’s Park in Southwark, a beautiful heart

Labour MP Chuka Umunna is lobbied on the south side of the Thames by climate lobbyists. © Chris Worrall _ Oxfam

100 Cyclists Pedal Against Poverty Thanks to all who took part in Pedal Against Poverty 2015. For the ninth year running over 100 cyclists from the Dioceses of Westminster and

Brentwood took to the paths alongside the canals of the Lee Valley Country Park in glorious sunshine to raise money to help people living in poverty around the world. Riders chose from two routes, a 19-mile ride from Ponders End or a 10-mile ride from Cheshunt. Both rides converged in Broxbourne at the half way point for a community picnic with sandwiches, cakes and inspiring words from Brentwood Diocesan Manager, Joanna Jarvis, and Fr Joe Ryan, of St John Vianney, West Green. Since Pedal against Poverty started nine years ago around £90,000 has been raised by our dedicated team of cyclists. This

year we are hoping to bring that total to £100,000. Can you help us to reach our target? Donate at www.justgiving.com/pedalagai nstpoverty2015 or send donations to CAFOD Westminster, Church of Christ the King, 29 Bramley Road London N14 4HE. If you missed out on Pedal against Poverty, it is not too late to put your pedal power to good use. CAFOD and Westminster Justice and Peace are teaming up with several other organisations who want to see an international agreement on the reduction of carbon emissions at the UN Paris Climate talks in December 2015. To highlight the significance of

these talks, supporters plan to cycle to Paris to take part in rallies for climate justice. Phase One of the ride will be from London to Newhaven between 29 and 31 August, with Phase Two, from Dieppe to Paris,

taking place in the first week of December. For more information, to sign up as a rider, or to volunteer as a helper, contact Westminster Justice and Peace on justice@rcdow.org.uk or CAFOD Westminster.

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Social Action

Westminster Record | July 2015

Seafarers Welcome Cardinal Aboard at Tilbury Port When Cardinal Vincent went on to the bridge of the Don Pasquale, a Singaporean ship mainly crewed by Filipino seafarers unloading cars, the captain asked him to bless rosaries, prayer cards and booklets that had been placed beside a candle on a small table. As he did this, some of the 22 crew members who had gathered to meet him took photos to send back to their families in the Philippines, Singapore and Myanmar. They had never had a cardinal on board before. Cardinal Vincent was in the port of Tilbury in Essex, situated 25 miles downstream from London Bridge, and one of Britain’s three major container ports. He had come to learn about the work of Apostleship of the Sea (AoS) and meet its Tilbury port chaplain, Wojciech Holub, who is based at the Seafarers’ Centre. During this month the Church marks Sea Sunday, when we are asked to pray for seafarers and support the work of AoS, whose chaplains and ship visitors provide practical and pastoral help in ports around Britain. ‘It was a great pleasure to be on the quayside and near the sea, because quite a lot of my youth was spent in Liverpool, where I was very familiar with the docks and would be down at the sea most days,’ said Cardinal Vincent. During his visit, wearing a high-vis jacket and a red hard hat, Cardinal Vincent met a number of seafarers, most of whom were working ninemonth contracts on ships, which means that they see little of their families. ‘To see the men who work on these huge ships in a way I’ve never done before is really very impressive. I appreciate their professionalism and dedication and the sacrifices they make to support their families,’ he said. Cardinal Vincent also went on the Arklow Wave, an Irish ship which was shortly to depart for La Coruna with 13,200 metric tonnes of grain. ‘I was surprised to learn about the speed with which ships turn around and the limited Page 16

opportunities crew members have to get off the ships and to do the things you can’t do on ships, such as shop, go to church, get medical attention if they need it and contact their families at home.’ ‘This is where the Apostleship of the Sea chaplains are so important, because they make these things happen. Otherwise seafarers might end up spending the few hours or days they spend in port in the same environment.’ He added that a greater appreciation and knowledge was needed about the key role seafarers play in our lives. ‘Nearly 95% of what we consume in Britain arrives by ship. We are utterly dependent upon shipping to continue and to prosper. So we should be more aware about those who serve us in this way and of the way Apostleship of the Sea supports them. ‘When families sit around a table together it’s important to think about where the food that they are eating comes from, where the chairs they are sitting on come from, where the building materials from their houses come from. Nearly all of it arrives by ship.’ AoS has produced a threeminute video for churches in time for this year’s Sea Sunday celebration on 12 July. The video shows how the Church, through AoS, cares for and supports seafarers who bring goods and services to people all over the world. Shot by Harriet Grecian, the film features AoS’ Felixstowe port chaplain Sr Marian Davey

©Mazur/catholicnews.org.uk

Above: Cardinal Vincent blesses the crew and religious items on board the Don Pasquale. Below: Next to the ship itself

meeting seafarers on one of her regular ship visits. She says: ‘Up to 95% of everything that comes into the UK comes in through the hands of seafarers. They are employed on contracts for up to six, nine and sometimes 12 months, which means being away from their families for that time. As chaplains we make sure they remain connected to their loved ones at home by providing them with telephone cards and internet access.’ The video can be watched by going to the AoS Film Page www.apostleshipofthesea.org.uk /aos-film or on AoS’ YouTube channel www.youtube.com/watch?v=xh IEXFgxMQI Churches are encouraged to share the video on their parish newsletters and websites ahead of Sea Sunday which is the main fundraising event for AoS to ensure its ministry supporting seafarers is able to continue.

©Mazur/catholicnews.org.uk

Social Action

Westminster Record | July 2015

A Pilgrimage of Faith in Hounslow

©Rumold van Geffen

By Rev Jon Dal Din This year the multi-faith pilgrimage for peace went to Hounslow. About 150 pilgrims from most religions gathered at the Laxmi Narayan Hindu Mandir where we were greeted with a delicious Indian breakfast. MPs Ruth Cadbury (Brentford & Isleworth) and Seema Malhotra (Feltham &

Heston), along with Councillor Nisar Malik, Mayor of Hounslow, welcomed and walked with us for the rest of the morning. We were accompanied and assisted all day by the local police and a team of Sikh stewards and paramedics. At Holy Trinity Anglican

church, the baptismal pool caused a lot of interest. Peter Furze dealt with questions about the pool and gave us an interesting personal account of the history of the church. Next we passed the former Synagogue and remembered the millions of Jews who died in the Holocaust. Before lunch, we visited the

Catholic Church where Fr Derek McGuire gave us an informative illustrated talk on the parish and its two patrons: St Michael and St Martin. Lunch was in the parish hall provided by a Sikh group from Birmingham. In the afternoon, we visited Hounslow Jamia Masjid and ended the day at Gurdwara Sri

Guru Singh Sabha, where we were invited to an evening meal in the free kitchen (Langar). Everybody went home tired but happy, well fed and spiritually uplifted. We thank all the people who took part, especially Hounslow Friends of Faith who helped make this pilgrimage a success.

Pax Christi Hear Horrors of Syrian War

The Great Issue of Our Time

More than a hundred people gathered on 6 June for the Pax Christi AGM in London. The guest speaker was Fr Ziad Hilal SJ, who works with Jesuit Refugee Service in Homs, Syria. He spoke of the flow of thousands of refugees from Syria to neighbouring Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey and Europe and was critical of the slow-moving peace process promised by the UN as people continue to be killed, disabled and to flee the war-torn country. ‘The people of Syria do not want war’, he said, ‘but where is the political will within the UN and the rest of the international community to bring an end to the conflict? It seems as though political and economic interests for war are stronger than for peace.’ The work of three women peacemakers was also acknowledged as Anna Kobayashi from the Diocese of Brentwood, Sue Scott from the

On 28 May local community leaders, charity partners and parishioners met at the Hurtado Centre for the second in a series of discussions on topical issues that affect local and global communities. The evening’s theme was migration and built on the previous discussion on the Common Good. Centre Director, Br Stephen Power SJ, introduced this contentious subject by focusing on the purpose of migration and the people that find themselves on the move. From conversations and reflections from the diverse audience and panel contributors including Catarina Amador, a volunteer at the Jesuit Refugee Service, it was clear that many of us are migrants at some stage of our lives and the reasons can range from fleeing persecution to experiencing the world through

Archdiocese of Birmingham and Sheila Gallagher from the Diocese of Westminster received the 2015 Pax Christi Peace Award. Anna has campaigned for many years against the arms trade and is a supporter of the traveller community at Dale Farm in Essex; Sue has campaigned for Palestine for many years; and Sheila was recognised for her role in the formation of the Westminster Justice and Peace

Commission and Barnet foodbank. The awards were presented by Archbishop Malcolm McMahon, National President of Pax Christi. Jose Henrique, General Secretary of Pax Christi International, attended and praised the British Section for its contribution to the international movement. Pax Christi recently celebrated its 70th anniversary with an Assembly in Bethlehem.

Jose Enrique, Pat Gaffney, Archbishop McMahon, Fr Ziad and Anne Dodd

work, study and travel. Depending on one’s motivations, the cultural, economic, political and social prospects can be very uplifting or daunting. A wider discussion followed group sharing and at the forefront was how the Church can respond to migration, whether through extending networks of welcome, advocacy or help, looking at trafficking of refugees and domestic workers, or upholding Church teaching on safeguarding the dignity of the human person. Also raised was whether the language of migration, which is often perceived through facts, figures and government and political party rhetoric, can result in ‘narrowing’ the conversation and reducing the welcome to ‘strangers in our midst’. On a final note, we were reminded that Christians are themselves part of a migrant Church. Page 17

Saints & Obituaries St Maria Goretti: 6 July St Maria Goretti is one of the youngest saints of the Church and was killed aged just 11 in 1902. She was born in Ancona, Italy in 1890, the third of seven children. Poverty forced the family to move twice between 1896 and 1899 and they eventually settled in Nettuno in Lazio, where they shared a building with Giovanni Serenelli and his son, Alessandro. On 5 July 1902 Maria was sitting outside the house sewing one of Alessandro’s shirts. Knowing that she would be alone, he made sexual advances towards her, threatening her with a knife. It became clear to Maria that he was going to rape her, yet she resisted him and would not submit, saying that what he wanted to do was a mortal sin and that he would go to Hell if he went through with the deed. Alessandro became incensed and stabbed Maria 11 times. When she tried to run he stabbed her three more times and then ran away. Hearing the noise of the attack, Maria’s mother and

Alessandro’s father returned to the house and found Maria. She was taken to hospital and operated on without anaesthesia but the injuries caused by the stabbing were too severe. She died on 6 July, a day after the attack, while looking at a picture of the Virgin Mary and clutching a cross to her chest. Before she died, she forgave Alessandro for what he had done to her. Alessandro was captured soon after the attack and served 30 years in prison for Maria’s murder. Upon his release he went to visit Maria’s mother, Assunta, who was still alive, to plead her forgiveness for her daughter’s murder. She forgave him, saying that if her daughter could forgive Alessandro on her deathbed so then could she. He attended her canonisation in 1950 and later joined the Capuchins as a lay brother. He died peacefully in 1970 aged 87. Pope Pius XII beatified Maria Goretti in April 1947 and three years later canonised her as the ‘St Agnes of the 20th century’. Assunta Goretti attended her daughter’s canonisation, the first mother to ever attend a canonisation ceremony for her child. Nowadays Maria’s body is kept in the crypt of the Basilica of Nostra Signora delle Grazie e Santa Maria Goretti in Nettuno, south of Rome. Her feast day is 6 July and she is the patron saint of chastity.

Westminster Record | July 2015

In Memoriam: July 1 Mgr Anthony Howe (2011) 3 Fr William M Brown (1989) Fr George Ennis (2007) 4 Fr Joseph Anthony Carr (1999) 6 Fr Terence Wardle (2010) 7 Canon Alfred Cuming (1978) Fr John Power (2002) Fr Frank Morrall (1995) 8 Fr Joseph Gardner (1992) 9 Fr Christopher Pemberton (1983) Fr John Norton (1989) 10 Fr Peter Harris (1976) Fr Thomas Kelly (1983) 12 Fr Daniel Higgins (1996) 14 Mgr Canon Joseph Williams (1991) 15 Fr Christopher McKenna (2003) 16 Fr Michael Giffney (1987) Canon John McKenzie (1988) 17 Fr Horatio Hosford (2014) 19 Fr Peter Pearson (1971) 21 Fr Anthony O’Sullivan (1997) Canon Philip Moore (1976) Fr Norman Kersey (1999) Canon Herbert Veal (2005) 22 Fr Tom Allan (2007) 26 Fr George Fonseca (1998)

Ealing Abbey Events Priestly ordination of Br Ambrose McCambridge OSB by Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Saturday 4 July at 11am. Book disputation on Ask the Beasts, Darwin and the God of Love, by Elizabeth Johnson. Panel: Clare Watkins, Abbot Martin Shipperlee, Catherine Pepinster & Fr Jim Sweeney CP. Saturday 29 August at 3pm in Ealing Abbey Parish Hall. St Francis of Assisi Catholic Ramblers’ Club meets on every Sunday for walks around London and the Home Counties. Contact by email: antoinette_adkins2000@yahoo .co.uk, call 020 8769 3643 or check out the website: www.stfrancisramblers. ukwalkers.com

Page 18

Fr David Roderick (2005) 27 Fr Graham Feint (2000) 28 Fr Ralph Gardner (1976) Fr Patrick Whyte (1988) Deacon Sydney Adams (2005) 30 Fr Calum MacLean (1982) Fr Vincent Commerford (1997) 31 Fr Albert Vaughan (1995)

Free Catholic Tours ‘Saints and Scholars’ walk first Sunday of the month, including Mass. Contact Peter on 07913 904997 or circlingthesquaretours@ hotmail.co.uk.

Events & Calendar

Westminster Record | July 2015

REGULAR EVENTS

Other regular Masses

Liturgical Calendar - July

If you have an event, please email: communications@rcdow.org.uk

1 Wed 2 Thu

feria

Prayer Groups

3 Fri

ST THOMAS, Apostle; Friday abstinence

Evangelisation Prayer Group for young adults meets from 7pm on Wednesdays at Notre Dame de France, 5 Leicester Place WC2H 7BX. For further details please contact Armel at apostles.jesus@yahoo.co.uk.

4 Sat

feria or St Elizabeth of Portugal or Blessed Virgin Mary on Saturday

Our Lady, Untier of Knots, Prayer Group of Intercession meets every third Wednesday at St Anselm & St Cecilia, Lincoln’s Inn Fields. Parish Mass at 6pm followed by Prayer Group until 8.45pm. Rosary, Adoration, Silent prayer and Divine Mercy Chaplet. Email: Antonia antonia4161@gmail.com.

7 Tue

feria

8 Wed

feria

9 Thu

feria or St Augustine Zhao Rong, Priest, and Companions,

10 Fri

feria; Friday abstinence

11 Sat

ST BENEDICT, Abbot, Patron of Europe

12 Sun

+ 15TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME; Collection for Apostleship of the Sea

SUNDAYS Taizé at St James, Piccadilly W1J 9LL every third Sunday 5pm. Call 020 7503 5128 for details. Tyburn Benedictines Monastic afternoon Every first Sunday 2-5pm Martyrs’ Crypt, Tyburn Convent, 8 Hyde Park Place W2 2LJ. Westminster Cathedral Young Adults meet socially after the 7pm Mass on Sundays and then at the nearby Windsor Castle pub. For further details please contact: westminsteryoungadults@gmail. com.

5 Sun 6 Mon

DEDICATION OF THE CATHEDRAL

+ 14TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME feria, Fourteeth Week of Year 1 or St Maria Goretti, Virgin & Martyr

Martyrs

MONDAYS

THURSDAYS

Mothers’ Prayers at St Dominic’s Priory, Haverstock Hill NW5 4LB Mondays 2.30-3.30pm in the Lourdes Chapel. All are welcome.

Jesus Christ the Fullness of Life Every first Thursday of the month. Young adults from all Christian denominations pray and share a meal. Details www.jcfl.org.uk.

13 Mon

feria, Fifteenth Week of Year 1 or St Henry

14 Tue

feria or St Camillus de Lellis, Priest

15 Wed

St Bonaventure, Bishop & Doctor

16 Thu

TUESDAYS

feria or Our Lady of Mount Carmel

Soul Food A Catholic charismatic prayer group for young adults meets Thursdays 7-9pm at St Charles Borromeo, Ogle Street W1W 6HS. Details at www.soulfoodgroup.org.

17 Fri

feria; Friday abstinence

18 Sat

feria or Blessed Virgin Mary on Saturday

St John Paul II Prayer Group Every second Thursday of the month 7-8pm, Mass, Adoration and Prayer at Corpus Christi, Maiden Lane WC2E 7NB.

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Tuesdays 6-9pm concluding with Benediction at Newman House, 111 Gower Street WC1E 6AR. Details 020 7387 6370. Prayers for London at the Shrine of Our Lady of Willesden Tuesdays 7.30pm. Organised by the Guild of Our Lady of Willesden, Nicoll Road NW10 9AX. Vocations Prayer Group Second Tuesday of the month 8pm at 47C Gaisford Street NW5 2EB. Taizé at St James’, Spanish Place, W1U 3UY every first Tuesday of the month at 7pm. Email: penny28hb@aol.com or just come along.

WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays on the Wall (WOTW) Every first Wednesday 6pm at All Hallows on the Wall, 83 London Wall EC2M 5ND. A short service of prayer and reflection at 6pm, coffee at 6.45pm followed by discussion. Corpus Christi Contemplative Prayer Group for Young Adults Wednesdays from 7pm at Corpus Christi, Maiden Lane WC2E 7NB. For further details please contact corpuschristipg@yahoogroups. co.uk.

FRIDAYS Association of Divorced and Separated Catholics Every third Friday of the month. All divorced and separated Catholics are welcome. Call Frank or Christine on 020 8422 1591. Divine Mercy Prayers and Mass Every first Friday 2.30-4.30pm at Our Lady, Mother of the Church, 2 Windsor Road W5 5PD. Westminster Cathedral Charismatic Prayer Group meet every Friday 7.30pm Prayer, Praise and Teaching. First Friday is a healing Mass. For details, please call 020 8748 2632.

SATURDAYS Taizé at Notre Dame de France 5 Leicester Place WC2H 7BX at 7.15pm. Call 020 7437 9363.

For more events from around the diocese throughout the month, please see www.rcdow.org.uk

19 Sun

+ 16TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

20 Mon

feria, Sixteenth Week of Year 1 or St Apollinaris, Bishop & Martyr

21 Tue

feria or St Lawrence of Brindisi, Priest & Doctor

22 Wed

St Mary Magdalene

23 Thu

ST BRIDGET, Religious, Patron of Europe

24 Fri

feria or St Sharbel Makhluf, Priest; Friday abstinence

25 Sat

ST JAMES, Apostle

26 Sun

+ 17TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME; Collection for Day for Life

27 Mon

feria, Seventeenth Week of Year 1

28 Tue

feria

29 Wed

St Martha

30 Thu

feria or St Peter Chrysologus, Bishop & Doctor

31 Fri

St Ignatius of Loyola, Priest; Friday abstinence

Sing Well and Pray Twice A day of music and prayer with international composer Christopher Walker on 29 August 2015, 10am-4pm at St Augustine’s Church, Hammersmith. Workshop, Celebration of Mass & Lunch. Individuals & Parish groups welcome. Advance booking is required: 020 8748 3788. Praying with Pope Francis - July 2015 Universal Intention: Politics - That political responsibility may be lived at all levels as a high form of charity. For Evangelisation: The poor in Latin America - That, amid social inequalities, Latin American Christians may bear witness to love for the poor and contribute to a more fraternal society.

Available from the first Sunday bi-monthly, the magazine is designed to be read by Catholics of all ages who want to immerse themselves into the history and present culture of their religion. The June/July edition is now on sale in your parish church.

PRINTED Subscription. Six issues - Price £21.00 includes P&P. Single issues £3.50 + £1 P&P. To subscribe or to order single issues telephone 0161 908 5301. You can also order back issues at discounted prices. Follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/diocese.westminster

Deaf Community Mass First Sunday of the month 4.30pm at Westminster Cathedral Hall, Ambrosden Avenue SW1P 1QW. Young Adults Mass Held every Sunday at Church of the Immaculate Conception, 114 Mount Street W1K 3AH. Quiet prayer 7.15pm, Mass 7.30pm. Social gathering afterwards. Contact: team@fsplus.info or visit www.fsplus.info. Mass at Canary Wharf Held on Tuesdays at 12.30pm at 2 Churchill Place E14 5RB. Organised by Mgr Vladimir Felzmann, Chaplain to Canary Wharf Communities. Details www.cwcc.org.uk. St Albans Abbey Fridays at 12 noon. Mass in the Lady Chapel of St Albans Abbey AL1 1BY. LGBT Catholics Westminster Mass 2nd & 4th Sundays 6.15pm, Church of the Immaculate Conception, 114 Mount Street, W1K 3AH. Contact: lgbtcatholicswestminster@gmail. com EXTRAORDINARY FORM MASSES Sundays: Low Mass 9.30am, St James Spanish Place W1U 3QY. Low Mass 9am, The Oratory, Brompton Road SW7 2RP. Low Mass 5pm, St Bartholomew, St Albans AL1 2PE. Low Mass 5.30pm, Shrine of Our Lady of Willesden, NW10 9AX. Mondays: Low Mass 8am The Oratory, Brompton Road SW7 2RP Mass 6.30pm Corpus Christi, Maiden Lane WC2E 7NB. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays: Low Mass, 8am The Oratory, Brompton Road SW7 2RP. Fridays: Low Mass 7.45am St Mary Moorfields, 4/5 Eldon Street EC2N 7LS. Low Mass 8am The Oratory, Brompton Road SW7 2RP. Low Mass 6pm St Etheldreda, Ely Place EC1N 6RY. First Friday only. Low Mass 6pm St John the Baptist Church, King Edward's Road E9 7SF. First Friday only. Low Mass 6.30pm Corpus Christi, Maiden Lane WC2E 7NB. Second Friday only. Saturdays: Low Mass 12.15pm, St Wilfrid’s Chapel, The Oratory, Brompton Road SW7 2RP. Low Mass 4.30pm, Side Chapel, Westminster Cathedral SW1P 1QW. Second Saturday only.

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Page 19

Spotlight

Westminster Record | July 2015

Celebrating St John Fisher The feast of St John Fisher and St Thomas More is celebrated on 22 June. This year, some parishes and schools who claim St John as their patron celebrated significant anniversaries. In honour of these celebrations, we dedicate this page to the only Cardinal ever to be martyred for the faith. By Mgr Mark Langham Parishes and schools in our diocese dedicated to St John Fisher, a great Catholic witness, who is usually overshadowed by his more approachable companion, St Thomas More. John Fisher was born in Yorkshire in 1469 and sent to Cambridge aged 14. He retained a love of Cambridge throughout his life, reformulating the curriculum and attracting scholars of international repute – most notably Erasmus. In 1504 he was made Bishop of Rochester, and became Confessor to Queen Catherine of Aragon. However, the breach with Rome in the 1530s presented him with a choice between conscience and career - unlike Thomas More, St John immediately declared his opposition. In 1534 he was imprisoned in the Tower of London, and was tried and executed in the next year. Pope Paul III hoped that making him a Cardinal would stay the King’s hand, but Henry merely quipped that John Fisher would not have a head on which to place his Cardinal’s hat. Beatified with Thomas More in 1886 and canonised in 1935, St John may seem severe (Holbein’s portrait is a depiction of austerity), but he wrote delightful letters to his sister, was a humble and conscientious bishop, and a generous friend to the poor.

Cardinal Vincent and Fr Agustin Conesa with children from Perivale Parish Page 20

Cardinal Vincent was present at three such celebrations in the diocese between 21 and 23 June. He himself has a personal devotion to St John Fisher about whom he has written a book which was published in 2011. Much of this book was written when the Cardinal was studying theology as a postgraduate at Manchester University in the early 1970s. On Sunday 21 June, he visited St John Fisher Church in Perivale where he celebrated Mass with Parish Priest Fr Agustin Conesa. Referring to the day’s Gospel about the calming of the storm, Cardinal Vincent said ‘St John Fisher faced the storm of death in total peace.’ To illustrate this sense of peace, the Cardinal said, ‘when waking to prepare for his execution he asked to be left to sleep another hour! For St John Fisher, his prison in the Tower of London was the place where he was at peace with Jesus.’ On Monday 22 June, the Cardinal visited St John Fisher Primary School in St Albans where he celebrated a Mass to mark the 60th anniversary of the school’s opening in 1965. The Mass was concelebrated by the priests of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart who have pastoral care of the Sts Alban and Stephen Church in St Albans. To a packed hall with as many parents and former pupils as current ones, Cardinal Vincent told the congregation to remember three things about St John Fisher. Firstly, that he was a good student, scholar and teacher and so the pupils must also be good students and scholars. Secondly, when Fisher became Bishop of Rochester in 1504, he was always kind to those in need and began the practice of bishops visiting their

Cardinal Vincent celebrates Mass at St John Fisher Primary School, St Albans

parishes and the poorest people. ‘Like Fisher’, he told the pupils, ‘you must always put other people first.’ The final point was that while Fisher was imprisoned in the Tower of London after refusing to sign the Oath of Supremacy to recognise Henry VIII as head of the Church of England, he grew closer to the Lord and was peaceful even in the face of

certain death because he knew that the Lord was with him. ‘You too must live like St John Fisher lived during in his time in prison and always live close to Jesus’, the Cardinal concluded. Finally on 23 June, he celebrated Mass at St John Fisher Church in Chorleywood with Parish Priest Fr Shaun Church.

Ss John Fisher (left) and Thomas More in Our Lady of Victories, Kensington