Inspirational at 91
Celebrating Sea Sunday
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Page 13 July 2013
Bishop Alan Hopes appointed Bishop of East Anglia His Holiness Pope Francis appointed the Right Reverend Alan Hopes as the new Bishop of East Anglia on 11 June. He will be installed on Tuesday 16 July at St John the Baptist Cathedral, Norwich, having served as Auxiliary Bishop in the Diocese of Westminster since 2003. When Archbishop Vincent Nichols heard of the appointment he said: “I am delighted that Bishop Alan has been appointed as Bishop of East Anglia. I would like to thank him for his considerable service as parish priest, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop in Westminster for the past 10 years. He is in our prayers as he prepares to continue his ministry in the service of all in East Anglia.” Bishop Alan served as a priest in the Church of England until 1994 when he was received into the Catholic Church. He was ordained in the Catholic Church in December 1995. After two years as Assistant Priest at Our Lady of Victories in Kensington, London he became parish priest at Holy Redeemer and St Thomas More, Chelsea. In 2001 he was appointed Vicar General. In 2002 he became a member of the Bishops' Conference Committee on Liturgy and in 2005 was appointed as its Chairman.
the Diocese of Westminster, on 24 January 2003 with the titular see of Cuncacestre. He was Chairman of the Diocesan Department for Clergy and Consecrated Life and had pastoral responsibility for the Deaneries of Ealing, Hammersmith and Fulham, Hillingdon, Hounslow, Kensington and Chelsea, North Kensington, and Upper Thames. He has been Chair of the Committee for Liturgy and is a member of the Bishops’ Conference Department of Life and Worship. He has also overseen the pastoral care for universities, hospitals, prison and ethnic chaplaincies. In one of his many interviews that followed the news of his appointment he said, “I’m not known for being idle.” Bishop Alan succeeds the late Bishop Michael Evans who died peacefully on 11 July 2011 after a long illness.
On learning of his appointment Bishop Alan remarked: “It is with a profound sense of trust in God’s loving care for us, that I will undertake this new ministry as Bishop of East Anglia, entrusted to me by our Holy Father Pope Francis. In this Year of Faith, and at the beginning of the pontificate of Pope Francis, it is an immense privilege to be called to follow in Bishop Alan was ordained Bishop, the footsteps of the late Bishop and appointed as an Auxiliary for Michael Evans in serving and
leading God’s holy people in this diocese. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Diocese of Westminster where I have been a priest and bishop, in particular to Archbishop Vincent Nichols and Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O’Connor for their unfailing support, guidance and encouragement. I shall miss its vibrancy and the spirited clergy with whom I have been privileged to work.” Bishop Alan also asked for our prayers: “As I take up this new apostolate, I ask for your prayers and support. In particular I entrust myself to the maternal intercession of Mary, our Lady of Walsingham, whose faith, trust and loving obedience is always the guiding light on our pilgrimage as disciples of Christ.”
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“It is with a profound sense of trust in God’s loving care for us, that I will undertake this new ministry as Bishop of East Anglia”
Editorial
Westminster Record July 2013
Westminster Record – Contact us Editor Bishop John Arnold Archbishop’s House, Ambrosden Avenue, SW1P 1QJ Deputy Editor Jo Siedlecka 020 7267 3616 jsiedlecka@gmail.com Managing Editor Barnaby Johns communications@rcdow.org.uk Inhouse writer Alexander Balzanella 020 7798 9178 Design Julian Game Proofing Michael Holmes Advertising Carol Malpass 01785 662685 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.
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100 Days of Pope Francis conference in Rome last month which was held in the Domus Santa Marta, where Pope Francis has chosen to live. He was often to be seen passing through the public spaces on his own and sitting in the dining room with other guests, seemingly completely at home. He has an ease even with the vast crowds that gather for the General Audience, often breaking from his printed homily to emphasise a point People who would have been that he is wanting to make. unlikely ever to mention the Pope have spoken about him. I have Underlying so much of what he says been so encouraged, for example, is the challenge to us, as individuals by one young woman who had and as communities, to see how the often told me in the past that the Gospel message can be expressed in Church has nothing to say to her our own lives. Certainly he will be and that she felt quite alienated undertaking some major projects from it who has been fascinated that will affect the whole Church universally, such as revisiting the by what Francis is saying documents of Vatican II and and doing. reviewing and reforming the Roman A shop assistant that I have Curia, but he emphasises in his own spoken casually to on a few words and actions that each one of occasions over the last couple of us can make an impact for the good years suddenly asked me about even by the little actions and this new Pope. “Doesn’t he make decisions of our lives. We can so you think?”, she said. She had underestimate the importance of been reading his homilies and what we do and fail to recognise the addresses on the internet. There opportunities that we have to make is no doubt that there is a change the lives of those around us a little in atmosphere. I attended a better because of the kindness and The ease of manner of Pope Francis is already having a significant impact on us as individuals. He has completed his first 100 days as Bishop of Rome and he seems to have touched the lives of many people. In so many conversations that I have with friends and colleagues his name is being mentioned with smiling approval.
Bishop John Arnold
thoughtfulness that we can show. We do not need to make great gestures. God will achieve all that he wishes to achieve through us. Stop and think for a moment. What might God want to achieve through you today?
Bishop John Arnold Editor
The View from Rome: Welcoming a special visitor
The academic year draws to a close, and as I write the English seminarians are all either deep in revision or exams, or busy finding any diversion possible. With such minor distractions out of the way summer is arriving in the best way possible. At the Beda College on 14 June we celebrated the diaconate ordinations, which included Westminster’s own Shaun Richards. The English College is on a later timetable, with its traditional postexam two week stay at Palazzola, the gorgeous summer house outside the city, until 14 July, when among others our Westminster student Stefan Kaminski will be ordained deacon. Shaun and Stefan are a real blessing to Westminster; Shaun will be returning to England after the summer, while Stefan remains in Rome for another year to complete his studies at the John Paul II Institute for Marriage and the Family. Page 2
Elsewhere, we were happy to welcome a good number of Westminster Clergy among the Old Romans (the association for those who trained at the English College), in Rome for their Annual General Meeting: Mgr Seamus O’Boyle led the pack, together with Fr Francis Wahle, Fr. John Deehan and Fr Gerard Skinner. Their presence was as (as ever) a great encouragement to the Westminster seminarians studying here. Later in the month, Bishop John Arnold passed through, participating in a Safeguarding conference in the Vatican hostel of Santa Martha. Apart from their important work, the participants had the formidable task of trying to share space with another now-permanent resident of Santa Martha, namely Pope Francis. The members of the national commissions were able to join the Holy Father for the morning celebration of Mass, where he encouraged them and urged them to continue their vital work. In the middle of June we welcomed a very special visitor, Archbishop Justin Welby, for his first trip to Rome since his inauguration as Archbishop of Canterbury. Like his predecessor, the Archbishop made a pilgrimage to the shrine of St Peter in the excavations beneath the basilica, and especially asked for some time in prayer at the
tomb of Blessed Pope John Paul II. At his meeting with the Holy Father, special mention was made of the close collaboration between the Church of England and the Catholic Church in many areas of national life, a relationship that was strongly underlined by the presence of our own Archbishop Vincent at the Papal meeting. Pope Francis and Archbishop Justin were not only inaugurated in the same week, but share many interests in common, particularly that of global justice, opposition to economic oppression, and an emphasis on the importance of reconciliation and conflict resolution. Mention was also made of the Anglican-Roman Catholic dialogue, now over forty years old, and the great areas of agreement in doctrine it has revealed, while acknowledging the considerable problems that exist in this area. The visit was a great encouragement to continue the search for unity in obedience to the will of Christ that his followers should all be one.
Mgr Mark Langham has until now been working for the Vatican Department for Christian Unity.
Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby
Westminster Record July 2013
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Bishop John Sherrington Ordains two new Deacons at Westminster Cathedral
Diocese holds annual Celebration of Priesthood On Thursday 6 June the priests from the Diocese of Westminster came together for the annual celebration of Priesthood at St Mary’s University College, Twickenham. The day began with a reflection on Critical Challenges to Central Catholic Beliefs: Preaching in the Year of Faith given by Archbishop di Noia, VicePresident of the Pontifical Commission Ecclesia Dei. In his talk Archbishop di Noia spoke of the challanges being faced explaining Catholic teaching in a more secular environment, in particular focusing on religious pluralism and expressive
source of our life of ministry’ which dwells within. He went on to say in the most trying and difficult times a central element of priestly life was to ‘reach through the tangle of emotions for that wellspring of God’s light where new life flows’, even though it could “In such circumstances retrenchment be challenging with the competing is not an option. In order to confront demands priests faced daily. these challenges we need a confident evangelising and a robust, but not Archbishop Vincent Nichols went on overbearing apologetics.” in his homily to reflect on the Following the talk the priests jubilarians in attendance, who were anniversaries of gathered to celebrate Mass at the celebrating chapel which was celebrated by ordination ranging from 25 to 70 Archbishop Vincent Nichols. In his years, speaking of his “admiration and homily Archbishop Nichols spoke thanks for their steadfastness and about Jesus Christ as being ‘the faithfulness”. individualism as a moral ideal. Archbishop di Noia spoke about the need to communicate well “why we need a saviour who is not just any saviour, why we need Christ to be authentically human and why the moral law is good for us.”
All You Need is Love The parishioners of St Mary and St Joseph, St Mark’s and the Church of the Resurrection, Grovehill have launched a monthly social group for elderly members of the community at the Centre in the Park in Hemel Hempstead. Over 80 people, including young people from the Confirmation Group, have volunteered to help host activities such as a quiz, afternoon tea and bingo. There are now as many as 40 regular guests who attend. The chairman of the organizing committee, Paul Heatley, said: “There are many older people in the town who live alone and who have very little social contact. This is an opportunity for them to meet and enjoy an afternoon of companionship and entertainment. The highlight of our first meeting was a performance by local singing group ‘Just a Capella’. There has been an amazing response. Everyone loved the company and fun and we are looking forward to many more afternoon events”. This project is part of the Growing in Faith initiative in the Diocese of Westminster. Canon Paschal Ryan, who represented the diocese at the launch, congratulated them and said that the three parishes were “ahead of the game” and that every other parish in the diocese would be looking to follow them. FOR MORE INFORMATION If you or someone you know would like to take part or know more, please contact 01442 391759.
Fish ‘n’ Chip Babies Reclothed By Maureen Anderson At its recent AGM at Sacred Heart and Mary Immaculate Church in Mill Hill the Westminster Branch of the Catholic Women’s League were overwhelmed by the sheer quantity (over 20 kg) of beautifully knitted little tank tops and bonnets for newborn babies. Originally, these were intended for babies (often born HIVpositive, so not destined to live long) in South Africa and India, whose mothers were so poor they wrapped their babies in newspaper – hence the Fish ‘n’ Chip nickname. Our consignment will go to Malawi, and we really appreciate all the love and skill that our Catholic Women’s League members, together with their friends in churches of other Christian denominations, have shown in producing these very colourful little garments. FOR MORE INFORMATION Please contact Mrs Maureen Anderson, Tel 01923 404250 andersonmaureen@yahoo.co.uk
Cardinal Cormac, Brian O’Mahony, Bishop John and Andrew Jaxa-Chamiec
Two Westminster diocesan seminarians have been ordained Deacons, the penultimate stage in their journey to priesthood. Andrew JaxaChamiec and Brian O’Mahony were both ordained by Bishop John Sherrington at Westminster Cathedral on 15 June. During his homily Bishop John spoke to the two candidates: “Generously you are giving your lives and forsaking the possibility of marriage and family to serve as deacons and then priests. I thank you for your generosity and dedication to Christ and his Church. I thank your families and all those whose inspiration and example has helped to lead you to this day.” Bishop John continued by reflecting on the powerful ministry to which they are called: “Through your preaching and teaching of the Word of God, you will nourish God’s people. By bringing the body and blood of Christ to them you will give them the Bread of Life and Cup of Salvation. As a servant, ready to give time and energy to others and to sacrifice yourself for the good of others, you will share in Jesus’s washing of his apostles’ feet. Every sermon and every person you meet provides the opportunity for an encounter through which the hand of God may touch individuals and speak of the power of God’s tender and merciful love.” The Rector of the diocese’s Allen Hall Seminary, Mgr Mark O’Toole, said: “I am delighted to see Andy and Brian ordained as Deacons for the diocese. I know they bring many gifts and will be much loved by the parishioners and communities they will serve.”
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News
Westminster Record July 2013
Apostleship of the Sea and Piracy
by Jo Siedlecka
by Fr Paul Glock Fr Paul Glock, Apostleship of the Sea port chaplain to Tilbury and the Thames, writes ahead of Sea Sunday on 14 July about the very real dangers of piracy faced by today's mariners. Piracy at sea may still conjure up images of Captain Hook or a bearded figure with a black patch over one eye. But for the modern seafarer it is vicious criminal gangs that he fears when he sails in some of the world’s oceans. That’s why Apostleship of the Sea is drawing attention to it on this year’s Sea Sunday on 14 July. According to the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre, up until March 2013 there had been 47 attacks on ships and three hijackings. Somalia, one of the world’s poorest countries, has become synonymous with piracy. Some of its waters, especially the Gulf of Aden, have become the most dangerous shipping lanes in the world. Many seafarers talk about the fear of transiting areas which are affected by pirates. I have talked with seafarers who have been
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Inspirational Mario at 91
Piracy is one the scourges of the the world’s oceans chased by pirates. On one occasion, pirates chased a ship for an hour. The vessel speeded up and went into zig-zag mode. Everybody on it was aware they were being chased. And then the relief, as they see on radar that the pirates have altered course and were now chasing a slower vessel. And even this close shave had a marked effect on the
crew. Some seafarers who have been attacked by pirates refuse to go to sea again. As many are from poorer countries in the world, they return home to an uncertain future and financial hardship See Justice and Peace page 13 for more news about Apostleship of the Sea
91 year old parishioner Mario Banacchioni from Holy Apostles in Pimlico was runner-up in the Inspirational Award at the Westminster Community Awards 2013 ceremony, hosted at the Victory Services Club in Marble Arch on 7 June. Judy Masters, parish pastoral coordinator, explained why Mario was so inspirational: "Mario is one of our most involved and faithful parishioners. Besides being involved with the Homeless Project, he helps with the ambulance that brings people to Mass at weekends, the Monday Club (for the elderly) and the Turkana Project (our twin parish). Mario is also an altar server for funerals and is very active in St Vincent de Paul and all their various projects. At Christmas and Easter he sings in the parish choir. He generally volunteers for whatever parish function we have to assist with the bar or teas and coffees. He really is quite busy at Holy Apostles." For the Dedication Award, another Westminster parishioner, Mary Furlong, was runner-up for her volunteer work for The Passage over the last quarter century. The
Cardinal Hume Centre was also mentioned at the ceremony as they were runner-up for the Group Award with Rachel Applegate and her team of tutors, who deliver a free service to Westminster residents helping non-native English speakers learn the language so they can better integrate into their local community. They were also runnerup with Channel 4 for the Partnership Award, to help increase opportunities for the Centre's clients and helping Channel 4 employees to better understand the challenges facing people in Westminster.
Mario pictured with the Lord Mayor of Westminster, Cllr Sarah Richardson
News
Westminster Record July 2013
Westminster Record September 2011
Archbishop Nichols delivers address at ecumenical service
In April the parish of Our Lady Immaculate & St Andrew, Hitchin, were delighted to become the first parish in Hertfordshire to be given the livesimply award for adopting the principles of living simply, living sustainably with the environment and living in solidarity with the poor. The plan the parish submitted in October 2012 to the livesimplyaward organisation explained how the parish had already adopted the livesimply
principles and how future activities would expand on this. As well as being a Fairtrade parish, opportunities to recycle materials are constantly sought – as shown by the children preparing for their First Holy Communion – who created pictures out of recycled materials on the sacramental theme. These pictures were displayed in the church. Parish pastoral assistant Trish Bonnett said: “This represents the community coming together as a team in recognition of our responsibilities to be stewards of God’s Creation.” The parish takes practical action to reach out to the less fortunate in its support of the North Herts Sanctuary, which provides nightly accommodation to homeless people in the area. It is run by 'Churches Together in Hitchin' and Our Lady's Church pays
part of the mortgage of the property. Parishioners have helped in the running of the organisation by being trustees, etc. A number of parish groups, including the 'One World Group,' support a range of different charities – local, national and international – by serving coffee and cakes after Sunday Masses. Parishioners are kept aware of injustices happening around the world and encouraged to take action to speak out for the poor and in care for the environment by notices in the parish newsletter, email petitions, posters and campaign card signing. Two assessors who visited the parish said it was a model of the livesimply principles and commended it for its reflection and worship, practical action and reaching out activities.
hungry for change. So we add our voices to those gathering this afternoon and around the world.” Archbishop Nichols also reflected upon the Acts of the Apostles which spoke about the early Christian communities and the value of their coming together in community life to share food: “It tells us that the starting point of the community was its faithfulness to the teaching of the apostles; a mutual commitment flowed from that faithfulness together with the practice of the ‘Breaking of Bread’ and daily prayer. It also tells us that the end result of a community life of this kind went beyond the meeting of hunger and need. The end result was that many more people came to see and live their lives in relationship with God.” The service was organised by CAFOD, Tearfund, Christian Aid and other major faith agencies. More than 1,500 churches have participated in the IF campaign.
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National Award for Our Lady Immaculate & St Andrew, Hitchin
Archbishop Vincent Nichols delivered the address and gave the blessing at the IF ecumenical service held at Westminster Central Hall on 8 June, with over 3,000 supporters in attendance. The IF campaign is the largest joint charity coalition since Make Poverty History, involving over 200 organisations which are campaigning for action by the G8 on the issue of global hunger. In his address Archbishop Nichols expressed his thanks for the opportunity to speak at such an important event of prayer and worship. He spoke of how “the four ‘Ifs’ at the heart of this campaign are not the ‘if onlys’ of wishful thinking. They are possible if we are prepared to work together to develop the international cooperation and responsibility, both corporate and personal, needed for truly beneficial economic activity and growth.” “Today’s objectives are achievable. They are urgently needed. We are
Vatican Cardinal visits Westminster dialogue between religions as "educative and enriching" the Cardinal said: "Holy Mother the Church exhorts us Christians, in the words of Pope Francis, 'to promote interreligious dialogue as a catalyst for efforts to build peace… to build bridges connecting all people, in such a way that everyone can see in the other not an enemy, not a rival but a brother or sister' (Audience with the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See, 22 March 2013). As the
President of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, I encourage you all, my dear friends, to build up cordial relationships with your neighbours, colleagues and others belonging to other religions to promote the cause of peace." The Cardinal concluded his stay with the celebration of Mass in Westminster Cathedral where he gave thanks for an "educative and enriching" dialogue between religions.
Archbishop Vincent Nichols joins CAFOD volunteers from Westminster at the Big IF London Ecumenical Service
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Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, President of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, visited England from 12-16 June to affirm and strengthen the good interreligious relations in the country. His trip included visits to the Jain Derasar at the Oshwal Centre near Potters Bar and BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden. He also travelled to the Sikh Guru Nanak Nishkam Sevak Jatha Gurdwara in Birmingham. The visits offered opportunities for dialogue on ways in which believers can work together for the common good and for a more peaceful world. A major highlight of the visit was a well-attended interreligious prayer event ‘Together in Prayer for Peace’ at Westminster Cathedral Hall on 13 June (pictured right) to offer prayers for peace and to bear witness to the longing for a more just and peaceful world. It offered a visible sign of prayer and solidarity with representatives from different religions offering prayers for peace in their own tradition. Describing the
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Marriage and Family Life Matrimony: the next generation – preparing the engaged for marriage
The Office for Marriage and Family Life will be holding a free in-service event, with lunch provided, in Westminster Cathedral Hall, SW1P 1QH on Saturday 20 July from 1 – 4pm for anyone in the diocese who is involved or interested in preparing engaged couples for marriage. Guest speakers will be Byron and Francine Pirola, members of the Australian Catholic Marriage and Family Council, an advisory body to the Australian Catholic Bishops. Both have been involved for over 20 years
in helping couples build successful and resilient marriages and are Executive Directors of the Marriage Resource Centre which produces programmes and digital resources, including the SmartLoving marriage enrichment seminar and Engage marriage preparation resource which is widely used in our diocese. “Far from being a relic of the past” says Byron, “we firmly believe that marriage as envisioned by the Church is a credible and realistic response to the challenges of modern life. If marriages are failing today, it’s not because marriage itself is at fault. Rather, couples need to be called and empowered to fully embrace the vision of the Church for their marriage – a passionate, tender, intimate and life-giving encounter with their spouse.” “Matrimony is a Gospel in itself,” said Pope Benedict XVI, referring to Genesis 2:24 and Mark 10:7-8. “And, as the Church has said and witnessed
for a long time now, marriage is called to be not only an object but a subject of the new evangelization.” So the event on 20 July is about raising awareness that the Church needs more than just well-trained individuals to run our marriage courses. We also need couples who have a good grasp of the power and grace of their unity in Christ through the sacrament of matrimony. There is an army of untapped human love in the Church; faithful spouses who can bear witness to the engaged of the reality of matrimonial graces, inspiring them to greater ambition for their marriage, and at the same time deeply enriching their own. Nothing is more effective in preparing couples for marriage, or helping married couples achieve their potential, than the powerful and loving example of another couple.All who are currently or wish to be involved in marriage preparation very welcome to attend, but registration is essential.
Westminster Record July 2013
The Big Promise! Celebrating, supporting and strengthening spouses across the nation In 2014 something extra is being planned for National Marriage Week which takes place to coincide with the feast of St Valentine. The BIG Promise is a unique initiative aimed at celebrating, supporting and strengthening husbands and wives across the nation! Marriage vows are the most long-term promises we ever make – to love and care for someone else for the rest of our lives! They are a commitment to put someone else’s interests as equal to our own, and they involve setting aside our own short-term ‘wants’ for long-term stability and satisfaction. For those that make them they are ‘the BIG Promise’. So in 2014 the hope is that on 8 February at 5.15pm as many husbands and wives as possible in the UK will have the opportunity to reaffirm their marriage promises to each other. The plan is to draw attention to the BIG Promise by coordinating those venues that wish to, including and especially parish churches in setting a new Guinness World Record for spouses reaffirming their vows. More information is available at www.thebigpromise.org.uk. If any Westminster parish would like to participate in the event please contact the Office for Marriage and Family Life.
Support the Alliance of Pro-Life Students Do you want to support a future for the pro-life movement? The Alliance of Pro-Life Students (APS) is a dynamic group of students and recent graduates. With a simple mission to help pro-life student groups to thrive, APS brings the message of life to the environment where it is needed most: university campuses. Launched and led by the youth, APS needs 500 people to give just £5 a month to help build a new generation of pro-life doctors, lawyers, artists, politicians and teachers. APS is empowering students to open up respectful debate and to stand up to injustice, ensuring that young mothers on campus have a solid support network. The APS: 500 GIVE £5 scheme will fund university visits, a handbook and leadership training. Can you join and give just £5 a month? Please visit www.allianceofprolifestudents.org.uk or call 07568355677.
Marriage enrichment seminars For the past 11 years a team of volunteer married couples has been presenting marriage enrichment seminars with the support of the Diocese of Westminster. The SmartLoving formula teaches couples how to approach their marriage with radical love, drawing on the wisdom of the authentic Catholic teachings on Theology of the Body, with profound results. At whatever stage of their marriage, whether it is solid and loving or stressed and fragile, attending a SmartLoving Marriage seminar opens up a way forward and rekindles the fire that led
them to want to get married in the first place. Couples who stay successfully and happily married have made marriage their mission. They choose not to just coast along, but actively to keep growing in their relationship. In two packed days, they can learn some of the most up-to-date ideas and skills on offer and, in the process, rediscover the joy of being a man and woman in love. After each themed session, time is given for husband and wife to reflect together in private between themselves. There is no group sharing.
The seminar takes place over a weekend but is non-residential. Saturday’s programme is from 9am to 9pm and includes an opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, the Vigil Mass for Sunday, and winds up with a celebratory evening meal. Sunday’s programme begins at 9am and ends at 4:30pm. As each session builds on the previous one, it is important that the couple are both present for the entire time. The next SmartLoving seminar takes place at Hendon NW4 4TY on 21 & 22 September. Registration is essential.
For any events organised by the office of Marriage and Family Life please contact Catherine MacGillivray 020 7931 6064 cathmacgillivray@rcdow.org.uk Page 6
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Westminster Record July 2013
70 Years a Priest! Fr Richard Nesbitt went to interview Canon Louis Thomas in his flat in Finchley who at the age of 96 is celebrating his 70th anniversary of priesthood this year. were thoughts of me going to Paris for a time as a young man but with the war clouds gathering (this was 1937) it wasn’t the best time for that. After leaving school I worked for the Oxford University Press for about two years, which was a very useful experience as I worked in the shop and on the publishing side. From there I entered seminary at St Edmund’s College in Ware. In our summer holidays at the seminary we used to work on the land as we were exempt from military service, provided that we took useful public service so I opted for land work on a big estate near Peterborough. I have happy memories of my time in seminary – obviously there were ups and downs but in general they were happy years. The surroundings were very beautiful and we had the benefit of a very good man as the President of the seminary – Mgr Francis Bickford, a truly excellent man. The seminary was very full – even in the dark days of the war, there were always about 80 seminarians. When were you ordained?
You were born in 1917, just as the First World War was ending...
When did you first think about the priesthood?
Yes, I don’t have any memories of course of the war but I do remember growing up in London – as a family we lived near to Lincoln’s Inn in Chancery Lane. My sister and I went to the preparatory school which the Rosminian sisters had in Ely Place and so we also went to church there. My father wasn’t a Catholic – he was a very good man, a perfect gentleman in every sense, unlike his son! I respected and admired him greatly. My mother was a good Catholic and a very good woman, who was keenly interested in my well-being and that I should always try to do the right thing.
I think it had been at the back of my mind from an early age. I was very interested in the Church and in Church affairs from a very early age. My mother told me that as a young boy I used to put a pillow case over myself and preach to the family! I was inspired as a young man growing up by many of the priests I met and I became very involved in the life of the parish at St Mary’s in Chelsea. There
“ I have happy memories of my time in seminary – obviously there were ups and downs but in general they were happy years.”
I was ordained in the middle of the war in 1943, as bombs were falling and land mines were being dropped. But we survived! My first parish was at St Agnes, Cricklewood – my fellow assistant was Fr Philip Harvey, who
“ I can’t stress how important it is to have good friendships. We need to be one of the community.” became Bishop Philip Harvey – a great man. We both went out as wardens during the war to help people in whatever ways we could. Cricklewood was a very informing place – the then parish priest, Fr. George Bishop, was one of the old school but a fatherly man, traditional in his outlooks but very kind in his own way.
Redeemer, Chelsea, and then St. Mary’s, Chelsea, followed by St Mary Moorfields, and then five years at St Mary and St Joseph’s in Poplar in the early 60s when the Second Vatican Council was beginning. From there I went to St Philip the Apostle’s in Finchley Church End, where I was the parish priest for 29 years until retiring in 1993. Those were extraordinary years, especially as I had the great joy of living through the great years of Vatican II. I always thank God for those years of the Council – it really was like the road to Damascus!
What advice would you give for the eight men recently ordained to the priesthood for Westminster diocese?
My basic advice is that life is to be lived and not just endured! My next advice is that the priestly life is a life of service and as such it must be a joyous ministry. It can’t just be about abiding by the rules – people must see in us a real joy and happiness. The unhappy, joyless priest can do a lot of damage – we have to make it clear that we love the priestly life and that we love people. We need to have good friendships with both men and women – good friendships are one of the greatest gifts we can have. And to help Why did Vatican II mean so much us through the more challenging times, it is essential to have a regime to you? of prayer and frequent celebration of When I came to Finchley, I told the the Eucharist. people that I was in love with Vatican II and as an obedient Once again, I can’t stress how servant of the Church I wanted to important it is to have good implement the ethos and teachings friendships. We need to be one of the community. I still have a big circle of of the Council as faithfully as friends who keep me very active. I go possible. I was particularly excited to them and they come to me – but by the wonderful bringing to life of perhaps I go to them more because the liturgy, not just in the language they are better cooks than I am! I am but in the spirit of the changes. privileged still to have so many good Vatican II made me treasure the friends – they have all been making a priesthood even more and helped big fuss of me as we celebrate my 70th me to live my priestly life in a deeper anniversary – indeed, we seem to have way. I thank God every moment of been celebrating it for quite a long my life for Vatican II and everything time now! And I continue to thank God that it means – indeed I would see for this great gift of the priesthood and all the different experiences he has myself as a servant of Vatican II. given me over the years, so I wish What was it like to finally retire from these 8 men and all who follow them parish life? the same joy which I have known in We retire because it is mandatory to my priestly life.
resign at 75, but I think I can say that the years since then have been almost as busy as they were before! I have helped out with some hospice work and have always had a very keen interest in ecumenism, and putting it into practice. I continue to attend all the meetings of Churches Together in Finchley. Perhaps one Since those first few years in sadness for me over the years has Cricklewood I have served in a number been the lack of enthusiasm for of parishes – in Burnt Oak, at Holy ecumenism amongst others.
“ I thank God every moment of my life for Vatican II and everything that it means.”
Caring for the Capital 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
WESTMINSTER PRIESTS To explore if the Lord is calling YOU to join us contact the Vocations Director Fr Richard Nesbitt: Tel: 020 7349 5624 Email: richardnesbitt@rcdow.org.uk Page 7
School News
Westminster Record July 2013
A Match Made in Classroom Ofsted showers praise on Loreto
College, St Albans A two day school inspection by Ofsted Inspectors judged Loreto College, St Albans outstanding in every category in May. Headteacher, Maire Lynch, was delighted with the outcome for the school community. She said, “This is our third consecutive outstanding Ofsted. I am extremely proud of Ofsted’s recognition of the outstanding teaching at Loreto College and their
On the last Friday of the summer term in 2011, Sean McCarthy from Harrow organised a surprise proposal for Claire Carroll, Deputy Head teacher by getting down on one knee in front of her Year 6 class at Blessed Dominic Catholic Primary School in Grahame Park, North West London. Sean said: “At the sight of me proposing the kids were in shock as to what was happening... as was I. I think it sunk in with them quicker than it did me. They went crazy, jumping up and down and the other members of staff let party poppers off. The party started there and then! Eighteen months later on 25 May the children who witnessed the proposal were able to see Claire and Sean tie the knot at St Sebastian and St Pancras Catholic Church in Kingsbury Green, officiated by Fr David Williamson. Claire said: "It really was a magical day and having the children from school being able to share it with us and participate made it even more special for both of us. The children were delighted to be asked to the wedding ceremony and a wedding choir was organised by the Head Teacher, Geraldine Pears, and accompanied by harpist, Gina Mackey.
praise for the excellent behaviour and academic progress of the students. In addition, the Sixth Form has earned particular praise. Whilst thrilled, we are never complacent about our success. We will continue to work hard in partnership with our very supportive parents to strive for excellence. As a Catholic school Loreto College was especially pleased with the
team’s comment: “The college's provision for students’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is exceptional. Students develop into considerate, compassionate, thoughtful and confident young people as a result.” Loreto will be having its first intake of boys into the Sixth Form in September.
Salvatorian College’s Young Historian
Nicholas Breakspear success in the Salters Festival of Chemistry
Rohan Caderamanpulle, a 12 year old pupil from Salvatorian College in Harrow, has appeared in an episode of an history themed game show called ‘Horrible Histories Gory Games’ which will be televised on the Four pupils from Nicholas Breakspear School, St Albans, were in their CBBC channel at 5:30pm on 9 July. element after winning a top prize at a chemistry festival on 22 May. Year Rohan applied via the CBBC website which involved writing an essay and 7 pupils Cordell Bennett-Fontaine, Elizabeth Power, Dana Connell and answering a history quiz. The Gory Games team then choose 100 of the Rifat Chowdhury won the university challenge at the Salters Festival of 4000 applicants to undertake a telephone interview. Rohan passed the Chemistry, held at the University of Bedfordshire last month. telephone interview and then a further Skype interview. He was one of only Head of Science at the school in Colney Heath Lane Dr Pete Sutton said: “Their teamwork was fantastic. All the other teams were amazed by their excellence.” 45 to get picked to appear. For his appearance he travelled to the BBC in The talented Year 7 students were very modest about their achievements. Shepherds Bush where he was up against a girl called Leah from Lancashire Dana said: “I enjoyed going, we had two challenges: a murder mystery where and a boy called Sam from Leyton in London. there were lots of suspects and clues involving salts and metals. In the second Rohan said: “I thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience it was super fun challenge we had to get a mixture of citric acid and bicarbonate from room and I wish I could do it all again. People who watch the show will know temperature to reach 10 centigrade precisely, we won this quite easily as we how fun, yet informative it is. I hope you'll tune in!” The school is very proud worked well as a team. We got a certificate and prizes for this. I thought the day was really good. We learnt a lot form it too.” Elizabeth added: “I was of Rohan’s achievement and shows how studying history pays dividends! really pleased that we won because the competition from other schools, mainly year 8 students, was really fierce.” The Salters Festivals of Chemistry is an initiative which aims to promote the appreciation of chemistry and related sciences among the young. This St Thomas More School in Wood organisation works in partnership with then Royal Society of Chemistry Green was singled out for praise by the Sutton Trust in June because it falls in the highest category for raising the attainment of those that come from inner-city backgrounds. The Sutton Trust is a foundation set up in 1997 and dedicated to improving social mobility through education. Its Chairman, Sir Peter Lampl, praised St Thomas More for bucking the national trend and securing its majority of Free School Meal pupils five good GCSEs, including English and Maths.
Raising Attainment at St Thomas More Catholic School
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Executive Headteacher, Martin is genuinely comprehensive and Tissot said: “I believe the achieving at the highest level.” improvement in results is a reflection of a collective effort since my appointment in 2010 to put in place a strong disciplinary and pastoral system.” The Chair of Governors, Cllr Pat Egan said, “I think this judgement reflects well not only on the School but on Haringey too, as we are dedicated to ensuring the best opportunities for all regardless of income or social class. I am proud to be associated with a school that
Westminster Record July 2013
Parish Profile - Hackney
St John the Baptist, Hackney – ‘An incredibly youthful parish’ by Alex Balzanella Nestled between the greenery of London Fields and Victoria Park, whilst also situated on a busy high street, is the parish of St John the Baptist, Hackney. When I arrived at the parish I was met by Fr David Evans, the long-standing parish priest. When I expressed my surprise at how green the surrounding area is Fr David said what a lovely parish it was and how lucky he felt to be here. Certainly a great way to begin a parish profile!
‘Underlying Instability’ When I asked about the history of the parish Fr David said its past has been a turbulent one, with the parish church needing to be demolished as a result of collateral damage from bombings in the Second World War. The new church, built in 1956, was one of the last in the diocese to be constructed before the Second Vatican Council, meaning that no sooner had it been completed than changes needed to be made to the original building.
The altar in the church
The parish still continues to see great change today, with the London Borough of Hackney seeing a third of people living in the area move every year. The area has also recently undergone gentrification and witnessed a sudden movement of young people from outside the St John the Baptist Hackney church building borough into the area. In such ‘Jewel in the Catholic Crown’ circumstances the parish church Parish Societies provides a vitally important sense of Although the character of the parish As well as Catholic societies the parish stability and community. community means there is little also has within its boundaries some opportunity for activities during the vitally important faith-based Young People and World working week, St John the Baptist community projects, in which parish Youth Day parishioners more than make up for members are volunteers and long time When I spoke to Fr David about the it whenever there is an opportunity. supporters. Fr David describes this challenges this must pose, he was work as ‘the jewel in the Catholic keen to stress that instead it has In the near future the parish will be crown’. Particularly well known is St helped develop a unique sense of hosting its annual BBQ, which Joseph’s Hospice, which was formed provides an opportunity for people to community in the parish: “It is an come together and learn about the by the Religious Sisters of Charity in incredibly youthful parish, more different ways in which they can 1905 and provides both in-patient and than half of the congregation on a become involved. These include the out-patient palliative care to people typical Sunday are under 35.” from Hackney and five neighbouring Legion of Mary, St Vincent de Paul London boroughs. In 2012 St Joseph’s “As a result of its young Society and Union of Catholic became an independent charity, rather congregation the parish Mothers. Fr David tells me as part of than being part of the Sisters’ order. really comes alive on the the Year of Faith there has been a However, the Sisters are still very much weekends.” renewed emphasis on helping these involved in the day to day life in the The level of engagement of the young societies to grow and take on hospice and also are highly involved in people at St John the Baptist is evident new projects. the new charity. in that the parish has the greatest Further to St Joseph’s Hospice the number of pilgrims on the Diocesan parish has had a long-standing link trip to World Youth Day in Rio de with Mild May Hospital, a faith-based Janeiro, Brazil. Fr David, in particular, hospital that provides specialist care was keen for the young people of his and support for people living with HIV parish to attend World Youth Day: & AIDS. The valuable work which these “Those I sent to World Youth Day came organisations do in the parish is back full of it and really became something which Fr David is keen to involved in parish life. In many ways it help develop and support. did them the world of good. Afterwards I felt it was really One cannot help but feel that with so important to support as many as I much youth and energy around the could to attend the next World future is bright for St John the Fr David speaking to parishioners Youth Day.” Baptist, Hackney.
Hackney embraces Archbishop's vision The word vision brings a particular call but also a particular difficulty. When the Archbishop offered us his vision for the future of the diocese we were called to have confidence that what lies behind it offers something good, beautiful and with a firm foundation for the building up of the local church of which the parishes are part. But at the beginning of a vision, there is nothing there; there is nothing or very little to see. In the film ‘The Song of Bernadette’ we are all so used to seeing Bernadette scraping in the dirt but at the time none would have foreseen what that would eventually mean. In his vision Archbishop Nichols introduced a three-fold challenge (for the parish, the priests and our witness to those in need) to the priests in the diocese to implement that vision. A pause was perhaps
of pavement stomping and house visiting. The priest turning up on your door step to talk about a vision and to share something of a future is not an easy thing. It is a time to catch up on news, views and thoughts but above For all of us to try to make the vision all to talk about God and His Church. It our own, we have needed to begin a is a sobering time to scratch around process of realising our shared and see what comes out. responsibility. This must surely begin and continue with our prayers - The response to be part of that vision prayers for ourselves that we maybe and a willingness to be counted strengthened to understand our part among those who would join in that in the work of the diocese - prayers idea in time, solidarity and in prayer that help us to perceive that the very was immediate and enthusiastic. A act of praying is a participation in the great witness to the challenge of the Archbishop’s vision. For to return to Archbishop is to have the confidence the life of St Bernadette, her scraping to make our parishes not only places in the dirt produced a place notable where we want to go but also where others will want to come to share for prayer. what we share and understand what Once asked to begin to proceed with it means to be friends with God and ‘Growing in Faith’ here in Hackney, it each other. The call of Growing in was time to revamp the lost practice Faith has been to begin by doing just needed for all of us to spend some time in thought and prayer to consider its implications. The three fold challenge should cause a threefold response.
that: to look at our parish to see why we go there and what is needed to make others more comfortable there too. Very soon a team of people were on board to be part of this very crucial initial contact. Perhaps, the most enthusiastic and enlivening moments were those meetings in the church hall when most of the families of the parish were represented (more than twothirds). Here the ‘vision’ that the Archbishop had proposed was brought to a real situation: from an individual speaking to individuals to those individuals coming together to reveal that ‘we are members of one body’. Just as St Bernadette had got her hands dirty to do something for God, so here many were willing to roll up their sleeves and get stuck in.
• Priests normally step down from being a parish priest when they turn 75 • Some continue to serve in a supply capacity after 75 • As a Diocese we are currently caring for 79 retired clergy, with a further 10 on sick leave • 44% of our priests in active ministry today will have retired within the next 20 years • Almost 40 men are currently training for the priesthood, with 8 being Ordained next month • The Diocese of Westminster plans to increase its Catholic Social outreach over the coming years and has recently appointed John Coleby as the Director of Caritas, Diocese of Westminster to lead this effort Page 9
In Pictures
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Westminster Record July 2013
Over 3,000 school children from across the Westminster Diocese took part in the annual Catholic Children’s Society Good Shepherd Mass held at Westminster Cathedral on 4 June.
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The two Masses were led by the Archbishop Vincent Nichols who in this year of Faith, spoke to the children about the importance of prayer and opening their hearts and mind to God. In his homily he said “trying to pray is sometimes easy and very difficult. When we pray we raise our hearts and minds to God, that is the very centre of prayer. Prayer helps to understand in this life what satisfies us most deeply is our relationship and conversation with God.”
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Sacred Heart High School in Hammersmith celebrated their 120th Anniversary on 7 June. Archbishop Nichols celebrated the Mass with a wonderful liturgy prepared by teachers and pupils.
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On 12-13 June CSAN (Caritas Social Action Network), the social action arm of the Catholic Church in England and Wales, hosted a conference aimed at addressing the Church’s response to the growing problem of poverty. Speakers included Archbishop Vincent Nichols, Lord Alton and Mark Hoban MP, Minister of State for Employment
Westminster Record July 2013
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In Pictures
Sacred Heart High School in Hammersmith celebrated their 120th Anniversary on 7 June. Archbishop Nichols celebrated the Mass with a wonderful liturgy prepared by teachers and pupils.
LEISURE TIME TRAVEL LOURDES by Air Stansted - Lourdes 23 July - 5 days - £529 10 September - 5 days - £475 Full Board in Lourdes. Excellent 3 Star Hotel.
LOURDES by Express Executive Coach Departs Westminster Cathedral 26 July - 9 days - £529 Full Board in Lourdes. 3 Star Hotel. Travel Only available (return) £225
LOURDES • PARIS • NEVERS No overnight Coach Travel. Departs Westminster Cathedral 28 July - 7 days - £475 • 27 October - 7 days - £475
LOURDES • PARIS • NEVERS • LISIEUX No overnight Coach Travel. Departs Westminster Cathedral 7 September - 8 days - £570
GROUPS 2014 Our booking charts are now open for Lourdes, Rome, Fatima, Santiago de Compostela, Poland, Knock, Paris, Holy Land etc.
GET A GROUP QUOTATION NOW! Look at our facebook page “Leisure Time Travel Pilgrimages” to see pictures and letters from our recent pilgrimages to FATIMA, SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA, LOURDES and the HOLY LAND.
Tel: 0208 287 8080 5097
In one of the initiatives for the Year of Faith the Diocese of Westminster joined a worldwide hour of Eucharistic adoration led by Pope Francis on the Feast of Corpus Christi on 2 June.
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CAFOD News
Westminster Record July 2013
The Big IF London gets a BIG Turnout! Thank you to everyone from the Diocese of Westminster who came together in Hyde Park in early June with an estimated 45,000 others to demand an end to the scandal of hunger as part of the Enough Food for Everyone IF campaign. Hundreds of CAFOD supporters from the Diocese of Westminster came together with CAFOD supporters from all over England and Wales, together lending their voices to those demanding that the G8 leaders make the scandal of hunger a thing of the past at this year’s G8 summit. The day began with more than 3,500 people attending an uplifting and inspiring ecumenical service led by Archbishop Vincent Nichols in Westminster Central Hall. Campaigners then took part in a walk of witness through the streets to the main event in Hyde Park, holding banners and singing songs about hunger to draw even more attention to the cause. The excitement and passion from the crowd at the main event was evident as inspiring words were spoken from the main stage by Bill Gates, the former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, CAFOD ambassador David Harewood, film director Danny Boyle, BBC DJ Lauren Laverne and singer Angelique Kidjo. Throughout the day, there were also special video messages from people
Efraim (15) works with the chickens on his family farm in Guatamala, which they started with help from CAFOD’s partners
Members of the Westminster Justice and Peace Commission join in the Big IF London rally
such as the Archbishop of Canterbury and David Beckham, who told supporters to tell Prime Minister David Cameron “the time for the G8 to act is now”. CAFOD supporter Keith Routledge, from Sudbury, said: “I am here to try and make sure that world leaders are listening and that they are actually going to change something. They need to see how many people across denomination and faith are supporting the movement”.
CAFOD’s head of campaigns Clare Lyons said from Hyde Park: “I want to thank every person who got up this morning and travelled to London to show they refuse to stand by and let millions of people go hungry every day. Hunger is the biggest scandal of our generation and we are all here to tell the G8 they must put an end to it. Together we will make that difference.”
The Big IF installation, made of thousands of spinning pinwheel* flowers with each of the 2 million pedals representing a child who dies of hunger.
This at h t n o m CAFOD After IF, we're still Hungry for Change! The Big IF London rally is only the beginning of a summer of action against the scandal of hunger. CAFOD’s Hungry for Change campaign runs throughout the summer and autumn, culminating with volunteers delivering all of the signed action cards to Downing Street in October – just ahead of World Food Day. More than 20,000 people have already taken action and sent a message to David Cameron this year, with parishes everywhere from Letchworth to Whitton setting aside time following Mass to share their thoughts with the Prime Minister on a campaign card. If you haven’t already done so, perhaps you could organise a card signing event in your parish? To order these for a signing in your parish, contact CAFOD Westminster on 0208 449 6970 or westminster@cafod.org.uk. This autumn, the Hungry for Change campaign will also be exploring a new facet of the scandal of hunger, looking at how climate change is affecting the ability of the world’s poorest communities to feed themselves. To learn more, perhaps you might also like to join us for CAFOD’s annual Campaign Conference on Saturday, 2 November, for an in-depth look at this as well as a review of what the campaign has achieved so far. For more information, or to book a place, contact CAFOD Westminster on 0208 449 6970 or westminster@cafod.org.uk.
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EVENTS
CAFOD Supporters’ Day – Saturday, 14 September You are most welcome to join us for a special day on Saturday 14 September where we will be further exploring CAFOD’s work on food and climate change in preparation for this year’s Harvest Fast Day. We are privileged to welcome a member of CAFOD’s Latin America team, who will be speaking about CAFOD’s work in Guatemala and Nicaragua. The day will take place at the Benedictine Centre for Spirituality in the Church of Christ the King, Cockfosters, N14 4HE. For further details and to book a place, contact CAFOD Westminster – 0208 449 6970 or westminster@cafod.org.uk. CAFOD’s Harvest Fast Day this year falls on Friday 4 October. Please make sure to add the dates for Harvest Fast Day in your diary: - Weekend of 29 September – Please could you arrange with your parish priests to give a short talk about CAFOD’s work during Mass, as well as distribute Fast Day envelopes afterward. - Friday, 4 October – Please remember to fast and pray for CAFOD’s partners around the world. Perhaps you could also organise an event like a prayer service or frugal lunch in your parish to mark the day? - Weekend of 5 October – please could you arrange a retiring collection for CAFOD Fast Day envelopes (or to use as an alternate weekend to speak at Mass)?
Dates for Diary
Parishioners at Our Lady and St George, Enfield, sign campaign cards to deliver to David Cameron as part of the Hungry for Change campaign.
Friday 18 October – CAFOD Pope Paul VI Lecture CAFOD’s annual lecture will be held at Kings College London at 6:30pm. Speaker tbc. Saturday 19 October – Westminster Justice and Peace Annual Day - held at Regents Hall, Oxford Street, Central London.
Justice and Peace
Westminster Record July 2013
Celebrating Sea Sunday JUDGE 14 July
SEE
by Martin Foley, of Apostleship of the Sea (AoS) ‘Out of sight and out of mind’. This phrase accurately sums up the plight of the modern seafarer. When one considers that the UK is an island nation and that seafarers bring to our shores over 90% of the goods that are bought and sold on our high streets, this lack of awareness is lamentable. Earlier this year, at a conference in Rome organised by the Pontifical Council for Migrants and Itinerant People, delegates heard that forced labour in the maritime world remains commonplace. Contrary to the popular view, it is not restricted to developing countries but also occurs in countries such as New Zealand, Russia, Turkey, South Korea and, much closer to home, Ireland and Scotland. Fr Giacomo Martino, former National Director of AoS Italy and now working for the Pontifical Council for Migrants and Itinerant People, highlighted industrial fishing vessels as a particular area of concern. Whilst the
majority of ship owners and fishing skippers treat their crews fairly and humanely, fishermen remain particularly susceptible to exploitation by certain ship owners, brokers and recruitment agencies because of a background of poverty, inexperience and a degree of naivety amongst some migrant workers. He said, “Crew on fishing vessels permanently positioned on the high seas are unlikely to report abuse, injury or death or otherwise seek help for their own protection.” Fishermen often have to surrender their passports and other identity documentation to their employers so mobility when in port is restricted. Their isolation is compounded by their lack of access to phones or the internet when at sea or in port, meaning contact with family and loved ones is sporadic at best. Payment of salaries is irregular and with many fishermen being paid with a share of the catch, the temptation to work excessive hours in an a l r e a d y dangerous occupation is strong.
For Father Giacomo, seafarers are “like ghosts touching our cities daily, emerging from ships for the procedure of signing in, or for a quick phone call home, only to disappear immediately inside their metal sheets like cockroaches struck by light; always strangers in every port."
Throughout Scripture we are told of the imperative to act justly. As the prophet Amos said, “You trample on the poor, and force them to give you grain … But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream.”(Amos 5:11, 24) What does Catholic Social Teaching tell us about seafarers and justice? In his encyclical, Rerum Novarum (Rights and Duties of Capital and Labour), Pope Leo XIII wrote: “The first thing of all to secure is to save unfortunate working people from the cruelty of men of greed, who use human beings as mere instruments for money-making. It is neither just nor human so to grind men down with excessive labour as to stupefy their minds and wear out their bodies.” Pope John Paul II, in his encyclical Laborem Exercens (On Human Work) said: “The thing that must shape the whole economy is respect for the workers' rights within each country and all through the world's economy.”
Justice demands that seafarers’ rights are upheld. They must be free to work without fear of abuse or exploitation.
ACT What should we be doing? 1. Pray for seafarers and their families. Many seafarers are men and women of deep faith. Our chaplains and volunteer ship visitors attest to the fact that when seafarers know there are people praying for them, this is a source of great strength and consolation. 2. Celebrate Sea Sunday in your parish on 14 July. Please visit our website www.apostleshipofthesea.org.uk for further information. Remember to include prayers for seafarers and the Apostleship of the Sea during the bidding prayers at Mass. Posters, leaflets and other information are available from the Apostleship of the Sea (annie@apostleshipofthesea.org.uk) if you would like to organise a Sea Sunday display in your church to raise awareness of seafarers’ welfare and justice issues. 3. Write to your MP, asking him to urge the UK Government to ratify the ILO Work in Fishing Convention without delay. Ratification by the UK Government will send out a powerful signal and significantly help international efforts to work towards improvement of the living and working conditions for fishermen in what remains a largely unregulated industry around the world. This Convention includes basic requirements such as a minimum age of 16 to work on board fishing vessels and compulsory hours of rest – amazing when one remembers that this is the 21st century! 4. Be responsible consumers. Fairtrade must encompass Fairfreight. Contact your local supermarkets and ask them what care they take to ensure that the seafarers who bring the produce sold in their shops to the UK are properly treated by their employers and protected from abuse, exploitation and excessive hours.
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Youth
Westminster Record July 2013
Director’s Spotlight The Summer months aren’t time for Youth Ministry to slow down; in fact we’re gearing up for some wonderful events. Kevin and myself fly out to Rio on 21 July for World Youth Day and what a fantastic opportunity to listen to Pope Francis from his home continent. The 46 Pilgrims who are with us are geared for their adventure and I ask for you all to pray for our safe journeys and for a Spiritually enlightening time in Brazil. Watch out for our daily blogs and photos; all being posted onto a range of social media channels. Also on 21 July Frank and Rebekah join the Diocese Pilgrimage to Lourdes and will be amongst the Redcaps as they do their fantastic work; this annual event is always a Summer highlight and the work undertaken by this group is truly magnificent – this is Young Adults at their very best – please pray for those people who are being assisted throughout the Pilgrimage. Hopefully blogs and photos will appear through social media. In August we’re supporting the Youth 2000 Kingdom Come event at Walsingham from 22 – 26 August; look out for our team amongst the throngs. Our primary role in the event is to provide logistical support, and the Centre for Youth Ministry will be a Central London Transport Hub for Pilgrims attending the event. And of course, we’re looking forward to the new School year and that means the welcoming of the new SPEC volunteers; we’ll be with the on their induction week in Snowdonia. Summer slowdown – I don’t think so!
Fr David Reilly, Diocesan Youth Chaplain
During the summer, ‘pilgrimage’ features significantly in the lives of many young Catholics. Each year hundreds of young people from England participate in a pilgrimage to Lourdes where they give their time and energy generously helping the sick and elderly. This year, almost two hundred young people from Westminster will do just that as they volunteer as ‘Red Caps’ in Lourdes. As we enter into the heart of the Year of Faith, we discover another event of great significance for the Church: the celebration of World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro during the last week in July. This marks the first international trip of Pope Francis as he returns to South America. Bishop Sherrington will
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You can find out more about the Diocesan Youth Service and the experiences of our young people by going to www.rcdow.org.uk/youth
You can also keep in touch online with the latest youth activities at http://on.fb.me/15fzuXE
“No amount of reading or planning an itinerary can prepare a pilgrim better for any pilgrimage than to spend extended amounts of time in silence before the Blessed Sacrament” Archbishop Vincent Nichols
twitter.com/ RCWestminster or WestminsterWYM See photos of youth events at http://tinyurl.com/5vqohvo
Events 22 to 28 July WYD @ Home - Brightlights
The New Evangelisation is the key to the future for all of us, and we must be its principal agents
New Catholic Truth Society booklet launched
The site includes coverage of events, interviews and photos.
If you have a story for the blog or for Westminster Record email us at: communications@rcdow.org.uk
DATE: JULY 2013
lead the official Westminster pilgrimage to Rio consisting of 45 young pilgrims from all parts of our diocese. Many others will celebrate ‘WYD@Home’ as part of the great Bright Lights festival in Aylesford, uniting themselves spiritually to the events in Rio. Exciting as it may be, WYD is not just a fun holiday; it represents the New Evangelisation in action: at WYD we have a glimpse of the future for the Church and faith in our world, an image which fills us with hope. The New Evangelisation is the key to the future for all of us, and we must be its principal agents. Like all young Catholics who will make a pilgrimage of one kind or another this summer, the Church continually makes a journey through history. Like us, She must constantly be renewed in her faith and put on the right course by the Holy Spirit. I hope that everyone, wherever they will celebrate their faith this summer, will make progress on their own journey and help to renew the Church along the way.
Get involved and keep in touch!
22 - 28 August Kingdom Come, Youth 2000, (Walsingham). WYM providing coaches to the event departing from the Centre for Youth Ministry
World Youth Day in Chelsea As everyone is well aware, Pope Francis will be in Rio de Janiero for his first World Youth Day (23-28 July). This World Youth Day is expected to be one of the biggest and most colourful celebrations of the faith since its launch by Blessed Pope John Paul II in Rome in 1984. But what is on offer for those unable to travel to Brazil? Under the guidance and wisdom of the clergy in the local area, Dan McNamara (Youth Worker for the Deanery of Kensington and Chelsea) will be bringing World Youth Day to Chelsea. World Youth Day in Chelsea will take place on Saturday 20 July at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Cadogan Street. The themed day of Brazilian carnival will commence at 1pm with a time of catechesis delivered by Archbishop Vincent Nichols. There will then be lunch prepared by parishioners followed by a time of Eucharistic Adoration with a number of priests available to hear confessions. The day will end with a movie in the parish hall about World Youth Day and the richness of the Catholic faith. Everyone is welcome (young and those young at heart). The minimum age for an unaccompanied young person is 11. For further information about World Youth Day in Chelsea, please contact Dan directly on danielmcnamara@rcdow.org.uk
With all the talk about World Youth Day this month, many young people might be wondering how best to prepare for the event or what to expect once arriving in Rio. One of these young people who was born and raised in the Archdiocese of Westminster, James Kelliher happens to be currently living in Brazil and volunteering in the offices of the World Youth Day organising committee. Alongside all the internal and external communications, general office administration and networking linked to World Youth Day, James has also been hard at work compiling a booklet containing stories and testimonies of pilgrims’ experiences at World Youth Day in Madrid in 2011. When asked how the idea came about to produce a Catholic Truth Society booklet about World Youth Day, James said: "Madrid was such an amazing experience for me and many other young people so I wanted to share these stories with the greater Catholic community. It has been a long process in the making, yet with the help of Jo-Anne Rowney and Paula Mendez I can say that we are really happy with the outcome and hope many will enjoy the read." Archbishop Vincent Nichols who happened to write the forward for “World Youth Day – Inspiring Generations” congratulated the authors at the launch of the booklet at the Centre for Youth Ministry. When questioned by various Westminster World Youth Day pilgrims about how best to prepare for such a pilgrimage, the Archbishop said: “No amount of reading or planning an itinerary can prepare a pilgrim better for any pilgrimage than to spend extended amounts of time in silence before the Blessed Sacrament.” The booklet can be ordered directly from the Catholic Truth Society for a mere £2.50.Phil Ross is Director of Youth Ministry for the Diocese of Westminster philross@rcdow.org.uk
Youth
Westminster Record July 2013
How does reform come about? It isn’t much more than two months since his pontificate began, yet in this short space of time Pope Francis has defined himself as a prayerful man of simple profound words. He has on numerous occasions repeated certain topics and statements to different audiences, so as to make sure the message sinks in and has come to be loved for his spontaneity. Ahead of the conclave there was a large amount of speculation regarding who would be the successor of St Peter, what reform needs to take place, and what characteristics a pope of the 21st century should have. One would have never predicted that we would have an Argentinian Jesuit pope, an inspired choice by the Holy Spirit, and that true reform of the Church comes from within. As a youth worker, this whole debate about reform within the Church and how best to approach it got me thinking, what does reform look like and will it grow the Church? I had numerous discussions, spent extended
amounts of time on social networks, and also read various books about key points in history when the Church ‘changed’. One of the best books I came across actually happens to be a new book which is called Evangelical Catholicism by George Weigel. During George Weigel’s recent visit to London, where he spoke at a Catholic Voices workshop, he
mentioned how this book came about through observing the Church around the world. He mentioned how one can often get discouraged by the low numbers of young attendees at Mass in a parish, the fact that the Sacrament of Confirmation is often seen as the Sacrament of “Exit”, and that there is currently a shortage of seminarians in various parts of the world. Yet he stated that if one looks deeper and scratches beneath the surface among young people, one will see a true authenticity, a true passion for the Church, and most of all a love of the Lord in the Eucharist. Over the past couple of weeks there have been numerous Catholic events for young people in and around central London. One of the most fascinating observations has been that many of these events and initiatives are Eucharistic centred, and organised by lay members of the community. Nightfever which takes place at St Patrick’s in Soho is a simple
Calling all young people interested in Justice and Peace
mission experience: young missionary volunteers invite pedestrians into the Church to light a candle before the Blessed Sacrament. Spirit in the City which takes place every year in central London’s West End Churches consists of various workshops and talks, where the Blessed Sacrament forms the heart of the festival. Youth 2000 who organise national retreats throughout the UK are another lay-led group who have the Eucharist at the heart of everything they do. Many of the young people in the UK who are now working for prolife charities, entering seminaries, and studying to become religious education teachers will admit that they have been involved in one or other form of Eucharistic centred retreat. This has made me realise that reform does not come from the election of a new pope, from the change of curia officials, or from different people pushing agendas; true reform comes from Jesus Christ in the Eucharist!
The 2013 National Justice & Peace Network conference will take place Friday 19 – Sunday 21 July 20. Discount rates of £40/£60 for the whole weekend have been offered to young people up to age of 16 years. The venue is The Hayes Centre, Swanwick, Derbyshire and it is expected to attract around 400 participants. A Y-KIDS Programme has been organised for 5 to 11 year olds. Based on Merseyside, Y-KIDS has led the children’s programme at the conference for a number of years. There will be messy games mixed with craft making, songs and drama put on by a qualified youth team. 12 to 16/18 year olds will explore the conference theme in an active and thought-provoking weekend led by the InReality Youth Team from Hallam Diocese. The theme is ‘Breaking Open the Word – a call to faith in action’. See website for booking for: http://www.justice-andpeace.org.uk
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Page 15
Evangelisation, Obituaries, News When Church and State clash – What’s a Catholic to do?
Westminster Record July 2013
The Power of the Eucharist by Frank Van Velzen, Youth Worker
by Anthony Curran Diocesan Catechetical Support Team Director As Catholics, we are called and empowered by our baptism to live and proclaim our faith at all times. As society grows colder and colder towards the love and truth of Christ, we need to reflect, study and pray in order to discover how we are to deal with the challenges between the secular world and our Christian ideals. The Bible deals with this conflict between the world of Man and kingdom of God through the theme of the city. In the Book of Genesis, cities are viewed with mistrust. Cain, the man of violence, is the first to build a city (Genesis 4:17). Babel and Sodom are places where human beings seek false autonomy, turning their backs on the Source of their existence. Believers, on the contrary, walk in the steps of Abraham (Genesis 12:1-4) and live as pilgrims who are on the road towards other horizons, with faith alone as their compass. Later on another city appears: Jerusalem, the City-of-Peace, founded not on human self-aggrandisement but on God’s promise. Its existence shows that faith does not call us to
flee from worldly realities, but leads to a new way of living together in justice and solidarity. There is nothing automatic about this, however. Even Jerusalem can be unfaithful to its vocation if those who live there do not follow the ways of the Lord. By practising injustice, “daughter Zion” becomes a prostitute (Isaiah 1:21-23). And yet believers keep longing for a righteous king to come, someone sent by God to purify his city and make it a beacon and a pole of attraction for the whole world (Isaiah 2:2-4). The disciples of Jesus identified this righteous king with the figure of their Master. However, Jesus, who died as someone rejected and cast outside the city (Hebrews 13:12-14), founded no human kingdom. His followers therefore remain “sojourners and foreigners” (1 Peter 2:11) in the midst of a society that is indifferent, and even hostile, to their endeavours. They do not remain on the defensive, however. While refusing to be deluded by any of the self-justifications of the powers-that-be, they attempt to contribute to the good of the society in which God has placed them. The last book of the Bible views all human history as a tale of two cities.
The debate about reform within the Church and how best to approach it got me thinking, what does reform look like and will it grow the Church? One of the best books I came across about this is called Evangelical Catholicism by George Weigel.
Babylon, impressive in its might and glory, will nonetheless disappear in the twinkling of an eye (Revelation 17– 18). Then comes the New Jerusalem, founded on the patriarchs and the apostles (Revelation 21–22). If the city of God is not yet manifest in all its splendour, it is not a mere hope for the future either. By living the values of the Gospel here and now, by forming communities where men and women from every background live together as brothers and sisters, the disciples of Christ offer a concrete alternative to a world forgetful of its origin and its goal. Far from remaining content with an attitude of refusal, they become salt and light to those both near and far. For information and resources on evangelisation, catechesis, small faith sharing groups and adult faith formation in the diocese visit our website at: http://rcdow.org.uk/faith/
Obituaries Fr Thomas Kiernan RIP
During George Weigel’s wrote this book from his observations of the Church around the world. He writes about how one can get discouraged by the low numbers of young attendees at Mass and that there is currently a shortage of seminarians in various parts of the world. Yet he stated that if one looks deeper and scratches beneath the surface, one will see a true authenticity, a true passion for the Church, and most of all a love of the Lord in the Eucharist. Over the past couple of weeks there have been numerous Catholic events for young people in and around central London. One of the most fascinating observations has been that many of these events and initiatives are Eucharistic centred, and organised by lay members. Nightfever which takes place at St Patrick’s in Soho has young missionary volunteers inviting pedestrians into the Church to light a candle before the Blessed Sacrament. Spirit in the City consists of various workshops and talks, where the Blessed Sacrament forms the heart of the festival. Youth 2000 is another lay-led groupthat has the Eucharist at the heart of everything they do. Many of the young people in the UK who are now working for prolife charities, entering seminaries, and studying to become religious education teachers will admit that they have been involved in one or other form of Eucharistic centred retreat. This has made me realise that reform does not come from the election of a new pope, from the change of curia officials, or from different people pushing agendas; true reform comes from Jesus Christ in the Eucharist!
St Anthony’s Parish, Edgware, celebrates centenary David J. Carter
Fr Tom Kiernan died on Thursday 20 June in retirement in Dublin. He was eighty-one years of age and had been a priest for fifty-one years. May he rest in peace. Thomas Kiernan was born in Dublin on 9 April 1932, one of eight children of his parents Mary and William. He joined the Oblates of Saint Charles in 1956, residing at first in their House of Studies, Montfort Lodge, in Clactonon-Sea, Essex. After completion of theological studies at the Franciscan Friary in East Bergholt, he was ordained to the Priesthood on 24th May 1962. After ordination Fr Tom ministered in the following parishes of the Diocese: 1962 -70 Kensal New Town (Assistant)1970-72 Shepherds Bush(Assistant) 1972-73 Northfields (Assistant)1973 -97 Edgware (Assistant and, from 1978, Parish Priest). He retired back to his native Dublin in 1997 where he continued to act as a supply priest until his final illness. Although quite unwell, he was able to travel over to St Anthony’s, Edgware for the celebration of the centenary of the parish last weekend (see right). He celebrated and preached at one of the Sunday masses before returning to Dublin. He died peacefully on Thursday morning. The Funeral Mass was at St Jude’s on Monday 24 June.
Fr Michael Pinot de Moira RIP Fr Michael Pinot de Moira died on Sunday 16 June following a stroke while on holiday on the Isle of Man. He was eighty years of age and had been a priest for fifty-seven years. May he rest in peace. Michael Patrick Anthony Pinot de Moira was born on 12 September 1932 in Kenton, Harrow, Middlesex, the youngest of three sons of Gabriel and Sheila Pinot de Moira. On completion of seminary training at Allen Hall he was ordained to the Priesthood in Westminster Cathedral on 26th May 1956 by Cardinal Bernard Griffin. After ordination, Fr Pinot had the following appointments: 1956-1958 St John's Wood (Curate)1958-1971 St Hugh's Preparatory School 1971-2013 St Edmund's College, in various capacities including teacher, Housemaster, Head of the Junior House, and ultimately as a much-beloved Chaplain. Though not qualified as a teacher, Fr Pinot soon developed his own very unique and effective style of teaching. His enthusiasm for whatever he was doing, whether in the classroom, on the playing field or simply being with the boys made him a central figure in the life of St Hugh's. Eventually he was asked to be a Housemaster in the newly expanded St Edmund's. In more recent years he had carried on with some teaching, but most importantly as Chaplain. His concern for the pupils and their families was always such that many life-long friendships were formed. His time at St Edmund's saw many changes, the most obvious being that he went from being one of a cast of many priests on the staff to being the only one. Perhaps what made him so endearing was that he not only gave so generously of himself, but he always did so cheerfully and in response to the call of Christ. Fr Pinot’s Funeral Mass was celebrated at St Edmund’s College, Ware, on Friday 28 June. Page 16
St Anthony's parish, Edgware, celebrated the Centenary of the parish with Mass celebrated by Archbishop Vincent on Saturday 15 June
Arts
Westminster Record July 2013
EXHIBITION
Stephen B Whatley Paintings from Prayer by Amanda C Dickie were displayed on the sanctuary over the final weekend. Also in the exhibition was The Blessed John Paul II Easter Monday 2011, this painting is particularly striking, capturing both his warmth and anguish. A cross is impressed on his forehead and a tear falls from his right eye a dove of Peace is being blessed by him, drawing the onlooker into that blessing. Apart from religious depictions of Christ, Our Lady and various saints, Whatley has painted portraits of many celebrities including Dame Judi Dench, Sian Phillips and Michael Mansfield QC. His work has also been featured in Time Magazine which in 2008 reproduced his painting of Barack Obama on its front cover. His Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace is in the Royal Collection, commissioned along with Grand Staircase, Buckingham Palace to promote the opening of the State Apartments to the public in 1999. His most recent work is of St. James and was inspired by the statue of the saint at Spanish Place. The saint has particular significance for Whatley as he took the saint’s name at his Confirmation. He depicts him with his pilgrim symbols of scallop shell, staff and water bottle along with those of his martyrdom: palm fronds and the sword.
Stephen Whatley hopes other churches will provide a sacred setting exhibiting these paintings from prayer. In the Autumn Westminster Cathedral will be hosting an exhbition of Whatley’s work, providing an opportunity to see his work in such an environment.
©Stephen B Whatley
Stephen B Whatley is an inspirational artist and parishioner of St James’s, Spanish Place whose paintings he describes as products of prayer. A Catholic convert, his vibrant Expressionist oil paintings radiate a spiritual intensity in fusions of light and colour. Born in 1965, Whatley lost his mother when he was sixteen, a tragedy that is still an aching wound but has generated a faith transfigured through art: “Art and Faith saved my life” he says. He studied at Ipswich and Norwich Schools of Art between 1981-6 and after completing a PGCE taught art for 10 years at the Kensington and Chelsea School of London Portraiture before becoming a full time artist. Whatley is known for painting religious subjects on their particular feast day, often completing the work within a day. Driven by prayer, a spiritual dynamism generates his prodigious output, often leaving him exhausted. Each painting is a profound spiritual experience for him. Many of his pictures include a tear, which has become a trademark symbol. Recently an exhibition of Whatley’s religious work entitled Paintings from Prayer, was held at St. James's, Spanish Place. Twenty pictures were exhibited in the presbytery, whilst powerful depictions of The Passion of Christ and Our Lady, Queen of Peace
FOR MORE INFORMATION www.stephenbwhatley.com
Music
Steven Isserlis performs at Westminster organist’s ‘at risk’ home
Calling all musicians, singers and instrumentalists. Do you love live music, meeting new people and want to inspire the next generation? Do you want to take the Gospel to your community in a new and exciting way? Then why re-invent the wheel? Join Sunday Night Live's growing network of cafe events and they will get you started in no time at all. Giving you access to your chosen cafe and introducing you to staff, they will provide you with in-store advertising to help you reach those passing by, and give you training and resources to keep your events fresh and unmissable! FOR MORE INFORMATION To find out more download an info pack at: http://www.sundaynightlive.org.uk
©Carlos Reyes-Manzos
Sunday Night Live seeking talent by Jo Siedlecka The internationally-renowned cellist, Steven Isserlis, fresh from playing the Haydn Cello Concerto in D at the Carnegie Hall in New York, brought his priceless 1726 Marquis de Coberon Stradivarius to the Chelsea home of Westminster organist Nicholas Lane on 5 June for an impromptu recital with pianist Ian Brown. Lane who plays the organ at Corpus Christi in Covent Garden and Holy Apostles in Pimlico, is campaigning to save his home from developers by having it listed with English Heritage. The old artist's studio, not far from the site of St Thomas More's estate, was the meeting place for many famous composers, musicians, artists and writers around the turn of the 20th century. During his visit Isserlis said: "what a wonderful place!! I can't help wondering whether this cello has been played here before."
If you would like to sign the petition please go to: http://www.musicat19a.co.uk/ Page 17
Saints and Heroes Fr. Roger Dawson S.J. at the Guards Memorial Horse Guards at the end of H4H bike ride
The Pedalling Padre by Amanda C Dickie Fr. Roger Dawson S.J., aka the Pedalling Padre was a leading presence on the Help for Heroes (H4H) Big Battlefield Bike Ride that culminated in London on Coronation Day. He was one of the lead riders as over 1,500 cyclists headed down The Mall on the largest ever H4H cycleride of wounded and able bodied veterans and supporters .The fund raising week-long ride from Paris to London covered battlefields and cemeteries of the two World Wars
The 300 cyclists converged with over 1200 UK Hero riders from all over the country at Blackheath, including celebrity patron, singer James Blunt and Olympic champion Mark Cavendish on the final leg to the Mall in London on Coronation Day. They cycled the 10 miles into London arriving in Whitehall, where accompanied by the State trumpeters of the Household Cavalry. Fr.Dawson led a final Fr Dawson, Superior of the Jesuits in wreath laying ceremony at the Wimbledon and a clinical Women's War Memorial near psychologist has just finished giving the Cenotaph . a series of talks on a Psychology and Welcomed by the Olympic choir and Spirituality course at the London Pandemonium Drummers from the Jesuit Centre in Mount Street. Olympic Games opening ceremony A former soldier he met Brynn Parry at the Mall finish , they continued and his wife Emma, founders of H4H, onto Horse Guards Parade. Speaking when both men were serving soldiers on a specially constructed stage and was chaplain to the Ride for the broadcaster Nick Ferrari called for third year running .He officiated at cheers for the Pedalling Padre who wreath laying ceremonies along the then read a story about a soldier route, beginning at Compiege where the First World War Armistice was wounded in Afghanistan. signed. Since 2010 the Jesuit has raised over £20,000 cycling for H4H. The charity, founded in 2007,rehabilitates wounded service personnel. He was one of the guests at Tidworth House, Wiltshire, at the recent opening of a new recuperation unit by Princes William and Harry. Fr. Dawson said that it had been the toughest ride ever cycling up to seven hours a day with some adverse weather conditions in France.
As the cyclists dispersed several riders came up to bid the Jesuit farewell, praising him for his support to everyone as chaplain. He has raised over £5,500 in sponsorship this year. People can still donate on www.bmycharity.com/pedalling padre2013.
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Father Michael Pinot de Moira and Fr Thomas Kiernan. May they rest in peace.
We want your News
You can send us your latest news online, just visit our website at: www.rcdow.org.uk/wrecord
Page 18
Westminster Record July 2013
July Feast Days St Benedict 11 July Abbot and founder of Subiaco and Monte Cassino; author of the Rule which bears his name; Patriarch of Western Monasticism; and patron of Europe. St Benedict was born at Nursia in Umbria around 480 and was educated in Rome. At about the age of 20, he went to live as a hermit in a cave in the mountains of Subiaco. Many men followed his example and he set up twelve monastic communities, each with 12 monks. In 529 St Benedict set out for Monte Cassino with a small group. There they established a monastery which was to become the most famous in Western Christendom, and a model for thousands which followed. The monasteries became centres of learning, agriculture, hospitality and medicine in a way St Benedict probably never foresaw. There is no evidence that St Benedict was ever a priest. As his communities grew his reputation spread and towards the end of his life he was even visited by the Gothic king Totila. Another kind of visitation came one night, when when he was standing praying by a window. It is written: 'the whole world seemed to be gathered into one sunbeam and brought thus before his eyes.' When death was at hand, in 550, he was carried into the chapel where he received communion and died. He was buried in the same grave as his sister St Scholastica. St Benedict said: "If you are really a servant of Jesus Christ, let the chain of love hold you firm in your resolve, not a chain of iron." His emblems are a broken cup, (which contained poison) and a raven (which flew away with it).
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In Memoriam: July Rev Sydney Adams (2005) Fr Tom Allan (2007) Fr William M Brown (1989) Fr Anthony Carr (1999) Fr Vincent Commerford (1997) Canon Alfred Cuming (1978) Fr George Ennis (2007) Fr Graham Feint (2000) Fr George Fonseca (1998) Fr Joseph Gardner (1992) Fr Ralph Gardner (1976) Fr Michael Giffney (1987) Fr Peter Harris (1976) Fr Daniel Higgins (1996) Mgr Anthony Howe (2011) Fr Thomas Kelly (1983) Fr Norman Kersey (1999) Fr Christopher McKenna (2003) Canon John McKenzie (1988) Fr Calum MacLean (1982) Canon Philip Moore (1976) Fr Frank Morrall (1995) Fr John Norton (1989) Fr Anthony O’Sullivan (1997) Fr Peter Pearson (1971) Fr Christopher Pemberton (1983) Fr John Power (2002) Fr David Roderick (2005) Fr Albert Vaughan (1995) Canon Herbert Veal (2005) Fr Terence Wardle (2010) Fr Patrick Whyte (1988) Mgr Canon Joseph Williams (1991)
Liturgical Calendar 1 July Anniversary of the Dedication of Westminster Cathedral 3 July St Thomas, Apostle 5 July St Anthony Mary Zaccaria, Priest 6 July St Maria Goretti, Virgin and Martyr 9 July St Augustine Zhao Rong 11 July St Benedict Patron Saint of Europe 13 July St Henry 14 July Sea Sunday 15 July St Bonaventure, Bishop and Doctor 16 July Our Lady of Mount Carmel 20 July St Apollinaris, Bishop 22 July St Mary Magdalene 23 July St Bridget of Sweden, Religious & Patron of Europe 25 July St James, Apostle 26 July SS Joachim and Ann, Parents of Blessed Virgin Mary 28 July Day for Life 30 July St Peter Chrysologus, Bishop and Doctor 31 July St Ignatius of Loyola
Westminster Record July 2013
Diary
REGULAR EVENTS If you have an event, please email us at communications@rcdow.org.uk SUNDAYS
Taizé at St James’s Piccadilly Every third Sunday 5pm. Call 020 7503 5128 for details. Ceilidh at Camden Irish Centre Real Ceilidh dancing every Sunday from 8pm, with lessons for newcomers until 8.30pm. All are welcome. £4 per session. Partners not needed. Contact 020 7272 5815 Tyburn Benedictines Monastic afternoon First Sunday of the month 2pm-5pm Martyrs’ Crypt, Tyburn Convent, Bayswater Road near Marble Arch. Westminster Cathedral Young Adults Young adults meet socially after the 5.30 and 7pm Masses on Sundays. on the steps of the Cathedral, then a pub. Deaf Community Mass First Sunday of the month 4.30pm in Westminster Cathedral Hall Ambrosden Ave. SW1P 1QW Young Adults Mass - First Sunday of the month At Mount Street 7pm. Quiet prayer at 7.15pm, Mass at 7.30pm. Social gathering afterward. Contact: team@ fsplus.info or visit www.fsplus.info. Young Adults Mass - Third Sunday of the month A quieter version of First Sunday. St Francis of Assisi Catholic Ramblers’ Club Every Sunday throughout the year walkers meet for a ramble in the Home Counties. Contact Antoinette 020 8769 3643 or visit www.stfrancisramblers.org.uk.
MONDAYS Mothers’ Prayers at St Dominic’s Priory, Haverstock Hill Every Monday 2.30-3.30pm in the Lourdes chapel. All are welcome. Prayer Event for people in the arts and media Third Monday of each month 6.30pm. For more information see www.artisaninitiatives.org
TUESDAYS Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Tuesdays 6-9pm concluding with Benediction at Newman House, 111 Gower Street. Details 020 7731 3367 Mass at Canary Wharf Tuesdays 12.30pm at 2 Churchill Place E14. Organised by Mgr Vladimir Felzmann, Chaplain to Canary Wharf Communities. Details www.cwcc.org.uk Prayers for London at the Shrine of Our Lady of Willesden Tuesdays 7.30pm Organised by the Guild of Our Lady of Willesden, Nicholl Road, London NW10 9AX Vocations Prayer Group Second Tuesday of the month 8pm at 47C Gaisford Street, Kentish Town, NW5
WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays on the Wall (WOTW) First Wednesday of the month 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.
Youth 2000 prayer group Wednesdays 7.30pm at Corpus Christi Church, Maiden Lane, Covent Garden.
THURSDAYS
Jesus Christ the Fullness of Life JCFL First Thursday of the month. Young adults from all Christian denominations pray and share a meal. Details www.jcfl.org.uk. Soul Food A Catholic charismatic prayer group for young adults 7 to 9pm at St Charles Borromeo, Ogle Street, W1W 6HS Details www.soulfoodgroup.org info@soulfoodgroup.org
FRIDAYS
Association of Divorced and Separated Catholics Third Friday of the month. All divorced and separated Catholics welcome. Call Frank or Christine 020 8422 1591 Divine Mercy Prayers and Mass First Fridays 2.30-4.30pm at the Church of Our Lady, Mother of the Church, 2 Windsor Road, Ealing. St Albans Fridays at 12 noon. Mass is celebrated every week at St Alban’s Abbey, one of the oldest Christian churches in England. Westminster Cathedral Charismatic Prayer Group 7.30pm Prayer, praise and teaching. First Friday is a healing Mass. Details 020 8748 2632 Vocations Discernment Group 7pm, Hinsley Room, Westminster Cathedral. Meetings for young adults aged 18-38. Visit
www.free2become.org or call 01277 373 848 Northwood Charismatic Prayer Group 1.30pm-3pm Praise, Prayer & Sharing. First Friday Adoration in the Church. Details: Pat Lee - 07918128248
SATURDAYS Aylesford Friary - All night vigils First Saturdays 10pm - 6am. Night vigils take place May-October on the first Saturday of each month. Call Mrs Tugadi 020 7352 4478 or Miss Ogbeni 07847 532199 or 01733 553762. Taizé at Notre Dame Church Leicester Square 7.15pm. Call 020 7437 9363 Catholic Under 35s Catholic Under 35s aims to help young Catholic adults in London meet like minded people via regular social events. For further info email Elroy elroyf@gmail.com or visit http://catholicunder35s.com
Catholic tours in London Qualified Catholic tour guide leads ‘Saints and Scholars’ walk every Sunday including Mass. Contact Peter on 07913904997 or circlingthesquaretours@ hotmail.co.uk
EXTRAORDINARY FORM MASS Sundays Low Mass 9.30am, St James’s Spanish Place, W1 Low Mass 9am, High Altar, the Oratory, Brompton Road, SW7 Sung Mass 10.45, St Bede, Thornton Road, SW12 Low Mass 6pm St Thomas Aquinas, Ham Common, TW3 Mondays Sung Mass 6.30pm Corpus Christi, Maiden Lane, WC2 Low Mass 7am, St Bede, Thornton Road, SW12 Low Mass 8am The Oratory, Brompton Rd SW7 Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays Low Mass 7am, St Bede, Thornton Road, SW12 Low Mass 8am The Oratory, Brompton Rd SW7 Low Mass 12.30pm, St Bede, Thornton Road, SW12 Fridays Low Mass 6pm St Etheldreda, Ely Place EC1 First Fridays only. Low Mass 7am, St Bede, Thornton Road, SW12 Sung Mass 6.30pm St Mary Magdalen, East Hill, SW18 Low Mass 8am The Oratory, Brompton Rd SW7 Mass St John the Baptist Church, King Edward's Rd Hackney E9 at 6pm. Every Second Friday Low Mass 6.30pm, Corpus Christi, Maiden Lane, WC2 Saturdays Second Saturdays at 4.30pm, Low Mass Side Chapel Westminster Cathedral Low Mass 12.15 St Wilfrid’s Chapel, The Oratory, Brompton Rd SW7
FORTHCOMING EVENTS 30 June Community Legacy Fun Games A chance to celebrate the Olympic legacy through games and sports at Finsbury Park (sports area) N4 2NQ. 5-a-side welcome but please notify in advance
13 July Catholic Grandparents Pilgrimage An event for the whole family at Aylesford Priory beginning with a gathering service at 11am. Spiritual prgoramme for all the family, with prayer balloons, adoration and workshops available. There will also be a children’s entertainer, face painting and sports. No need to book just turn up. Enquiries to Catherine MacGillivray 020 7931 6064
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Urban Retreat Day A day of refreshment for people living and working in Tower Hamlets Saturday 27th July 2013 11am to 4.30pm Suggested donation £15, or what you can afford. With Brian Purfield and Fr Damian Howard SJ Call 020 7488 7325 to book or e-mail hurtado.jesuitcentre@gmail.com The Hurtado Jesuit Centre, 2 Chandler Street, Wapping E1W 2QT T: 020 7488 7325 www.hurtadocentre.org.uk
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Page 19
Spotlight
Westminster Record July 2013
A Day in Binga Parish, Zimbabwe Meeting Cafod’s partners By Bishop John Sherrington The beat of drums signalled the gathering for the celebration of Mass on Pentecost Sunday in the parish of All Souls, Binga in the diocese of Hwange in northern Zimbabwe. As the people heard the drums, the church filled and with joy and movement the opening hymn echoed through the church and into the surrounding lands. The majority of the congregation were BaTonga or Tonga people who live in this very arid area near to the Zambesi River and whose lands are found in Southern Zambia and Northern Zimbabwe. It was good to be joining the local church for its celebration of Pentecost and to hear the common Catholic faith expressed in many tongues – Tonga, Shona, Ndebele and English. I joined Fr. Joshua, a Spanish missionary and parish priest in the celebration of the Mass. Amongst the congregation this Sunday were Noreen Lockhart, a member of CAFOD’s senior management team and Joanne Rule, a new Trustee. The purpose of my visit to Zambia and Zimbabwe at the invitation of CAFOD was to see at first hand various projects in these countries, to meet their overseas partners and, since many of the projects are partners with the diocesan Caritas, the local Bishops. The visit focused on projects which help people to live well with HIV. These include empowering people to become more self-sufficient and the provision of water and nutrition as well developing home-based care teams. This visit enabled me to see some of the ways in which the
Collecting water - the pain and toil of women.
generosity of Catholic parishes and schools during Lent 2012 had enabled CAFOD with its partners to fund water projects and latrines. Norman and George from CAFOD Harare accompanied us on the journey with infectious laughter and also their expertise in water, hygiene and sanitation (WASH projects) meant that during the long journeys by road we learnt a lot about boreholes, pumps and latrine technology. In the diocese of Hwange, CAFOD work with the diocesan Caritas who are implementing a number of water projects. We visited a project to restore a 20 km pipeline, in conjunction with Zimbabwe Water (ZINWA) and other partners, which delivered water to the dry area of Manjolo. With no water supply, the people suffered and began to use ponds used by livestock, with the added dangers of disease and infection. The renovation of the pumping station meant that Manjolo would again receive clean, safe water. Another project we visited had built latrines for a local school at Chilelema. Prior to this project the staff and pupils had to use squat holes. Christian Care had provided a 5 latrines but this still meant that for a school of 410 pupils the waiting was very long. In this project CAFOD provided 18 more latrines for the school and two for the teachers’ houses. The provision of the latrines is accompanied by education in hygiene as well as training in latrine maintenance. I was fascinated to see the biblical quotations on the back of the Caritas T-shirts which read “You must have a pit latrine and go out to this (Dt. 12:23)”. I wondered about the context of this quotation from the Book of Deuteronomy to discover it in the context of regulations about community life. We then visited Makamba community garden, the aim of which is to grow vegetables both for consumption and sale in the local market. A borehole was drilled, an area fenced off, and starter packs given to start production. Cooperation has enabled the community to achieve greater harmony in relationships as well as provide for its own needs. Women have grown in self-reliance and the sale of these goods has helped them address household needs. The women were proud of their work and delighted in showing us their purchases. As Muyoba, a widow, said
Partners working together.
As the people heard the drums, the church filled and with joy and movement the opening hymn echoed through the church “The garden has become my husband as I can support myself and my family. I can afford plates and cups. It has meant a complete change in my life. We can attend to the needs of our children. Twalumba (thank you).” Another woman was delighted when her husband worked in the garden because it kept him busy and tired him out! Providing food security is particularly important for those living with HIV & AIDS. In this village community, there are widows, people taking care of orphans and home based care providers. Food is essential for those who are HIV+ to maintain their health, as taking Antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) without food causes major complications. The highlight of the afternoon was a visit to Lubu community in Clean Water Area, an area in which there is a natural spring at the bottom of a steep hill at the top of which is the village. As we walked up the hill in the heat, accompanied by three women carrying 20 litre water containers on their heads, showing us the toil and pain of collecting water, we heard the sound of whistles
and song and saw people of the village dancing down the hill to welcome us. The project partnered with Caritas has piped water from the spring to a storage tank (gravity feed) and then pumped it up the hill to a large water storage tank using solar energy. The strong African sun means that power is reliable and there is only a small cost for locally-trained maintenance. The village now enjoys constant fresh water and there is water available for irrigation. Life in this village had been transformed and as we left, we were again accompanied by song and dance. It was a remarkable day! We met people whose lives had been changed
by clean water and who had been enabled to be more self-reliant, proud of their achievements and could see hope in a situation which was often very bleak. The people we met were resilient, strong, persevering and full of gratitude. How often I take water for granted! This visit has made me more aware of the gift of water as well as enabling me to see how the generosity of our parishes and schools bears fruit in projects in one small part of Africa. It is an example of the virtue of solidarity which is central to Catholic social teaching as a commitment to the good of each and every person. I thank CAFOD for this opportunity and gift.
An exuberant welcome for the CAFOD visitors.
Page 20 Published by The Diocese of Westminster, Archbishop’s House, Ambrosden Avenue, London SW1P 1QJ. Printed by NWN Media Limited, Mold, Flintshire. All rights reserved.