The Official Newspaper to the Diocese of Lancaster Issue 270 + June 2015 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk FREE INSIDE: p04 Bringing up Children in the Faith p08 ‘,Caminos de Pasion’, C ardinal Vincent Nichols has appealed to all parishes to join, on 11 July this year, a new national network of prayer for the work of Evangelisation. The July date is significant because it is the same day that representatives from across England and Wales will gather in Birmingham for the Proclaim ’,15: National Catholic Evangelisation Conference, which is the first event of its kind in a generation. The Cardinal said “,In the Church at this time we’,re really trying to reinvigorate the way we understand ourselves and our parishes, to grasp again how essential to our life of faith is our readiness and willingness to share that faith and to reach out to others…,. At the heart of all our effort must be prayer. It is from our relationship with Jesus that our desire, and readiness, and ability, to share our faith, really flows. Most of all what we need is a desire to be with the Lord so that he can send us out as his missionary disciples. We’,ll be into July before long, so I urge and appeal to you, please do get ready for this day, get ready for 11 July…,. It’,s an invitation to everybody please. Let’,s get together and ask the Lord’,s blessing that we can be confidently Catholic and outward-going in our faith.”, Cardinal Nichols’, video recording of his appeal and additional information about the Proclaim ’,15 initiative is available at: www.catholicnews.org.uk/proclaim15 and on our own Diocesan website at: www.lancasterdiocese.org Are You Ready ? ©, Mazur/catholicnews.org.uk K&,M Maintenance Heating - Electrical - Building Telephone: 01772 704530 Fax 01722 798801 Heating, Electrical and Building services across the North West of England Gas •, Emergency Boiler Repairs for all makes •, Boiler Installations &, servicing •, Central Heating System repairs/upgrades/leaks •, New fitted Central Heating Systems •, Landlord Gas Safety Certificates (CP12) Electrical •, New consumer units supplied and fitted •, All emergency breakdowns •, Power tripping •, New lighting •, Additional sockets •, Faulty sockets •, Rewiring •, Outdoor lighting/sockets Building •, Extension work •, Alterations •, Driveways, paths and patios •, Conservatories •, Double glazing •, Fascias and Soffits , Prices Boiler Service - £,39 + VAT plus £,10 for every additional appliance. Tel No: 01772 704530 Mobile: 07941 554730 Fax No: 01772 798801 Address: K &, M Maintenance Services Ltd, Unit 9 Romay Way, Preston, Lancs PR2 5BB More information: wwwkmmaintenance.co.uk

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2 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + June 2015 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk Contact us The Catholic Voice of Lancaster is published on the last Sunday of the month previous to publication date. The Catholic Voice of Lancaster is published by its owners. The Trustees of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Lancaster, a registered charity, (No. 234331), and is wholly independent of and separate from any previous newspaper published by or on behalf of the diocese. EDITOR: Edwina Gillett 01253 736630 / 07969 967268 edwinagillett@hotmail.co.uk www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk ADVERTISING: Caroline Gonella / CathCom Ltd. 01223 969506 carolineg@cathcom.org www.cathcom.org DESIGN &, LAYOUT: Rob Hotchkiss / Hot Creative 01253 730343 rob@hot-creative.co.uk www.hot-creative.co.uk PUBLISHED BY: CathCom Ltd. N2 Blois Meadow Business Centre, Blois Road, Steeple Bumpstead, Haverhill, Suffolk CB9 7BN 020 7112 6710 / www.cathcom.org Articles to: voicenews@hotmail.co.uk Letters to: voiceletters@hotmail.co.uk VoiceXtra: voicextra@hotmail.co.uk Postal Address: FAO Edwina Gillett 99 Commonside, Ansdell, Lytham St. Annes FY8 4DJ Please send articles for publication on CD or by email, supplying any photos separate to the text (i.e. in jpeg format). Otherwise please type double spacing or write very clearly. Last date for copy is the LAST DAY of the month prior to publication. Photographs will be returned if you remember to put your name and address on the back of each and enclose suitable stamped and self-addressed packaging. The Catholic Voice believes that the experience of pilgrimage provides not only an ‘,impetus to conversion’, but also an impetus to a renewed understanding of the Church as a ‘,pilgrim people’,... who have fallen away from it, or do not know anything of it. Pilgrimage becomes a privileged place to experience faith for all people, many encountering the Lord in surprising ways. Whilst not everyone always begins a pilgrimage as a pilgrim, all end up as a pilgrim. Furthermore, the sense of journey that is built into every pilgrimage, removing us from the rut of everyday life, not only opens up new horizons, but also provides a way of helping us to understand the journey of the heart, revealing to us the destiny of our lives. The Catholic Voice believes that the experience of pilgrimage provides not only an ‘,impetus to conversion’, but also an impetus to a renewed understanding of the Church as a ‘,pilgrim people’, , the Church on the move towards her heavenly homeland, shedding in the process the self- absorbed and often tribal attitudes that can hamper our local parishes, and re-orientating the local Church towards a more dynamic and missionary imperative. The Catholic Voice exhorts all the faithful of our diocese to commit themselves to a pilgrimage this year –, if not to the great shrines of the Holy Land or to the shrines of the Blessed Mother –, how about to the shrines of our English saints: to Durham and Lindisfarne, or to St Winefride’,s in Holywell, or, to our own diocesan shrines at Ladyewell and Cleator, or to Martyr’,s Hill and the Cathedral in Lancaster, or, even a daily visit to your local church? And given what has been said above about people of no faith tapping into the faith, why not invite someone new to go on pilgrimage with you? Why not have the courage to invite others, even those who have not yet come to know what you know. The journey together –, that is a pilgrim’,s progress. EDITORIAL L ater on this year, the Porta Sancta (Holy Door) in St Peter’,s Basilica in Rome will be opened by Pope Francis, ushering in the ‘,Jubilee Year of Mercy’, . The locking of the holy door reminds us of the time when Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden and all was lost in shame and darkness, its unlocking in a jubilee year reminds us of the gift of grace and mercy that is opened to us. Pope Francis hopes that the opening of the door will encourage pilgrims to visit Rome and other holy sites as an ‘,impetus to conversion’, . In a time when church attendance has been declining and the memory of faith is waning, it may seem strange to learn that pilgrimage has never been more popular. And this is the case particularly for young people, many of whom would never come anywhere near a church. Recent research in the UK has explained why this might be the case. First, for many young people who feel disconnected from the practice of their faith, pilgrimage provides an environment which they can enter on their own terms, regardless of their level of faith or understanding of the Church and her liturgy. Secondly, pilgrimage suits a modern mind-set which is afraid of regular commitment but is open to new experiences, especially with a mystical edge. Thirdly, in a world where many feel isolated and alone, pilgrimage provides an opportunity to meet others and a sense of belonging. The Catholic Voice recognises the value of pilgrimage, not only for those committed to their faith, but perhaps, especially, for those

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June 2015 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 3 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk I n recent weeks it has been widely reported in the media that the number of women entering convents in England and Wales has hit a 25 year high. Towards the end of April Sr. Michaela Toulmin from the Bernardine Community at Hyning featured on Radio Lancashire saying that the Church was now using all the modern means of communications to reach out to young people and that there were a lot more programmes and opportunities for individuals to find out more about the religious life and discern their vocation. Sr. Michaela has since written ‘,After the good news of a national surge in vocations across the country, the good news continues, Julia will start her postulancy as a Bernardine on the 19th August. The Bernardine Community at Hyning will have 1 junior, 1 novice and 1 postulant! Please pray for all three of them on their formation journey and for more to join them.’, From a low point of 7 in 2004, the numbers entering the religious life nationally have steadily increased to a high point of 45 in 2014. Religious life is now being seen as an attractive choice for an increasing number of educated and dynamic young and older women. “,A key reason for this increase is the growth of a culture of vocation in the Church. Young Catholics are asking themselves ‘,What is God’,s plan for my life?’, and they are availing themselves of opportunities to meet with experienced guides to consider their future in the context of prayer, discussion and scripture”, said Sr. Cathy Jones, Religious Life Vocations Promoter at the National Office for Vocation. Sr. Jane Livesey, General Superior of the Congregation of Jesus, believes that religious life is one place where women can make an incisive contribution, “,It is historically the case that it is religious life that has given women a clear and recognised place in the Church and an opportunity to contribute very fully to the Church’,s mission to be at the service of the people of God –, whether ‘,churched’, or ‘,unchurched’,”, she said. ‘,The Church acknowledges the indispensable contribution which women make to society through the sensitivity, intuition and other distinctive skill sets which they, more than men, tend to possess.’, Pope Francis –, ‘,The Joy of the Gospel’, Nuns on the Rise To advertise please contact Caroline on 01223 969506 or email carolineg@ cathcom.org

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4 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + June 2015 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk M y name is Olivia and I am 13 years of age. I live in Black- pool with my mother. When I was younger we lived with my grandparents and aunties and uncles so I have always been part of a big family and I am very close to them. My family really inspires me more than anything. They have guided me though my faith for as long as I can remember. They have shown me the right way of life and how to make the right decisions. They have encouraged my faith by walking down the religious path with me. Growing up as a Catholic I have always attended Mass and consider my parish to be very supportive in guiding me through my spiritual journey. I try to live out my faith as much as possible by attending church every week, regularly going on pilgrimage, taking part in various different liturgies, praying every day and trying my best to see good in everyone I meet. I have faced some challenges in my faith. Some people don’,t quite understand my religion and they don’,t understand why my faith is such a big part of my life. Nevertheless, I have never lost sight of my faith or been embarrassed by it. My faith is very important to me because it shows me that we all make mistakes and we all sometimes find it hard to forgive ourselves but we need to know that God is ready to forgive our sins. I wouldn’,t be who I am today without my faith –, it has taught me to stay strong, to stay faithful to myself and others and to believe anything is possible. To keep up-to-date with what is going on, check out www.castleriggmanor.co.uk Meaning and Purpose for this Generation Being a Young Catholic To d a y Olivia, 13, Blackpool I am one of five children brought up in the Catholic faith. Church has always been a part of my life and permeates my childhood memories. My parents have always encouraged and supported me and my siblings in our faith, passing it to us through their example. I became a mother at just 17 years of age. I watched my friends go off to college and university while I stayed home changing nappies and staying up all night for all the wrong reasons. To say my faith remained strong throughout this time of my life would be a lie. When my daughter was young, I was often reluctant to go to Mass so she would regularly go with my parents. I always knew I wanted her to be brought up within the faith but didn’,t necessarily see the importance of my role in passing it on to her. It wasn’,t until I had the opportunity to attend a conference with my brother, organized by the Faith Movement, that I, once again, started to take an interest in my faith. I met many young Catholics who, along with my siblings, became and continue to be an inspiration to me. As I engaged more closely with my faith I started to see the impact it had on my daughter, even at a very young age she showed an incredible interest and understanding in the teachings of the T he last World Youth Day was held in Rio, too far for most of us to go, so we brought Rio to Keswick and celebrated our first WYDFest. Teaming up with the Youth Service from Salford Diocese, we welcomed young people from across the North- West. For a whole week in the summer Castlerigg was trans- formed into Castle de Rio: rooms were renamed after Rio districts such as Flamengo, Ipanema and Cocacabana Beach. We set up our very own Sugarloaf Cafe, our little chapel became the Cathedral San Sebastien, and the dorms were renamed the ‘,Favelas’, . Brazilian-coloured bunting filled the house and international flags festooned the hallways. This was World Youth Day but not a world away. This year we will once again celebrate WYDFest at Castlerigg from 11-14 August, in part to prepare ourselves for Krakow 2016. The event is open to anyone aged 15-23, and judging from comments from the last event, it is one festival not to be missed: “,One of the best and moving weeks of my life. It really was a beautiful celebration of faith –, it really captured the joy and energy of WYD with a perfect balance of prayer, talks, games and adventures in the mountains. Spending time and seeing all young people my age who are all passionate about their faith gathered together was really inspiring and strengthened my faith. The experience has been eye-opening, emotional, overwhelming, amazing and mind-blowing”,. Details and booking forms are on: www.castleriggmanor.co.uk Summer festival at Castlerigg Church. Faith became a constant for us and something which we both shared. We talked a lot as she grew up and became all the closer because of it. Passing on my faith has become an intrinsic part of who I am. If I could ask anything for my daughter it would be that she continues to grow closer to God every day of her life. Amy ++++++++++++++++++++++++++ I, too, am from a large Catholic family and my faith has always been a significant aspect of my family life. At the age of 17, I lost a very influential part of my life and faith: my grandpa. He always tried to make me see the importance of my faith, reminding me that when I am at church I am closest to God. Like Katie, I attended the Faith conference where I made lifelong and inspirational friendships. We all made the journey of faith together, which poses challenges every day in such a secular society. At the age of 24 I became a mother, which undeniably presented further challenges and with many hard decisions to make. One decision that was in no way questionable was to bring my child up in the Catholic faith. I recognized that one of my many responsibilities as her mother was to pass on my faith, encouraging her all the while to love and to practice it. For me this is a daily struggle as her father is an atheist and is unable to understand the importance of faith either in mine and her life. There will always be a battle of ideas between myself and my partner that will test our relationship and parenting. I feel this is one of my crosses to bear in life. Passing on the Catholic faith to my daughter makes the affectionate bond between her and me even greater and allows us to share the most special of moments when we are at Mass together. It makes me feel so lucky. She enjoys going to Mass and is inquisitive about our faith, wanting to learn new things about it all the time even though she is just five. Being a Catholic is a fundamental part of who I am today. My only hope is that in passing this on to my child she will find as much truth and happiness in her faith as I do in mine. As parents Katie and I understand that bringing up a child in the Catholic faith can often be challenging, especially when trying to set the best example of living our lives in the way that God intended. As friends who share a passion and love for our faith we have supported each other in the difficulties and joys of bringing up children in the faith. We both appreciate the importance and significance of passing on the faith from generation to generation and pray that our children always know that they are loved, by their families and by God. Bringing up Children in the Faith By Amy Murphy &, Katie O’,Donnell Katie ++++++++++++++++++++++++++

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June 2015 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 5 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk Stretch those Limbs O n Sunday 28 June you are all invited to Castlerigg for our annual sponsored walk. Meeting at 9.00am for Mass we will put on our walking boots and head down towards the shores of Derwentwater, walk around the Lake into Borrowdale and then head up onto Catbells, before returning to Castlerigg for tea and scones. Ten miles of walking through some of Britain’,s most beautiful landscapes. We are asking all those who join us to get sponsored so that we can continue to raise funds for Castlerigg Manor to cover the costs of its major re-fit last summer. Sunday 28 th June To advertise please contact Caroline on 01223 969506 or email carolineg@ cathcom.org

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6 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + June 2015 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk I n January this year I went on pilgrimage to The Holy Land. Only two weeks before I was in hospital for a week with pneumonia, so it was truly a great blessing that I was well enough to go and enjoy the wonderful experience of walking in the footsteps of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus, in his own land. It was the most amazing pilgrimage and experience I have ever had, the places we visited and the beautiful shrines were overwhelming, and to be with 12 other very spiritual people was a great strengthening of my faith. I went with a great friend of mine, Br Benedict Delarmi from The Brothers of The Renewal at Bradford and met another 12 people from all over the country, with Fr Michael Stewart from Westminster. We had never met before and four people had come on their own, but instantly we were one family, and became great friends. For me there were so many wonderful highlights but the two that had the most impact were renewing my vows in the River Jordan at one of the most ancient sites which is untouched and said to be the exact place Jesus was baptised and having a beautiful Mass on a boat in the middle of the sea of Galilee on a beautiful sunny calm morning, all on our own in the middle of this vast sea, it was a moment we all felt the presence and the beauty of Our Lord, in the peace and beauty of being on a boat in the middle of the sea, just as Jesus and the disciples would have done all those thousands of years ago, watching in the distance the old fishing boats Walking in the Footsteps of fishing as they would have done in Jesus’, time. We went with Pax Travel, a Catholic tour company who always provide a priest for their pilgrimages, they sent two of their representatives with us and we had the most amazing guide all week, a very spiritual Arab Israel Catholic who was also a Ph.D in archaeology and so knowledgeable he made everything come alive. He took us to his beautiful catholic church in the middle of Nazareth which is over 1,000 years old. If you have never been to The Holy Land, and have the opportunity I would strongly urge you to go, we first went to Jerusalem and then after 3 days went to Galilee, it is such a beautiful country and we all had a wonderful experience, one that I hope to repeat again next year. When you visit The Holy Land as a pilgrim you are entitled to use the ancient title of Jerusalem Pilgrim JP after your name and get a certificate to prove it. It really is a life changing pilgrimage, a strengthening of your faith and reading about these special places that Jesus walked in makes the bible come alive, when you remember that you actually walked in the same places Jesus did and have witnessed the beauty of The Holy Land. Teresa Smith J.P. A pilgrimage to the Holy Land Jesus ST JOSEPH’,S CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL Business &, Enterprise College Harrington Road, Workington, Cumbria CA144 EE Telephone 01900 873290 NOR 674 - 11-16 school Lay Chaplain required to commence 4th September 2015. PCD4A £,22,393 to £,23,698 pro rata. The Governors wish to appoint a committed and enthusiastic Lay Chaplain to join a happy and successful Catholic High School. The successful applicant will lead and foster worship and spiritual guidance for our young people at different stages of their faith journeys. This is a ‘,whole school’, role involving all curriculum areas, pastoral work, some local Parish work and working with our Primary schools. Applicants will need to be a practising Catholic with a sensitive understanding of young people, their families and colleagues in the school. Ideally you will be qualified to degree level or equivalent and will have experience in working in a youth setting or a Parish. Application packs available from Mrs J Welsh, jw@st-josephs.cumbria.sch.uk or from the website www.st-josephs.cumbria.sch.uk to be returned to Mr T Ryan Head teacher by 12.00 noon Wednesday 17th June 12.00 noon. Interviews Tuesday 23rd June 2015 The school is committed to safe recruitment procedures. Applicants are subject to enhanced DBS. Catholic schools subscribe to the North West Catholic Dioceses’, Equal Opportunity Policy.

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June 2015 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 7 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk Your letters How to send us your letters: Write to: The Editor, 99, Commonside, Ansdell, Lytham St. Annes, FY8 4DJ. Email to: voiceletters@hotmail.co.uk •, Please keep your letters concise (max 300 words), •, Include your full name and address •, Letters should not include any personal criticism or attacks •, The editor reserves the right to: - amend or shorten letters or to refuse to publish them (no correspondence to discuss decisions taken will be entered into) - publish a response if deemed appropriate Dear Editor, It is with sadness that the sisters of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus are announcing that they are leaving Preston this year after 165 years of service in education and parish ministry to the Catholic community of this city. It was in 1854 that the sisters first came to Preston at the invitation of the Jesuits. For many decades in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries they were headmistresses in most of the Catholic parochial schools in the city. Generations of girls were also educated in their convent school in Winckley Square until it closed in 1979 when the sisters collaborated in the establishment of Cardinal Newman College. Many ‘,Prestonians’, and others from further afield today will remember and be grateful for the education they received from the Holy Child sisters. Most recently the sisters have been living in St Austin’,s Place. In the autumn there will be a Mass of Thanksgiving and details about this will be communicated nearer the time. Philomena Grimley SHC J Dear Editor, God Bless all Hospital Visitors I was so sorry to read John Baldwin’,s letter (April edition) as I have had so different an experience. I have just come out of Preston Royal after three months being moved in five times to different wards. Even when I was in intensive care then critical care, (when I could not speak or receive Holy Communion) , I had a visit from Sister Ann. Eventually I did receive Holy Communion and then when I was getting moved to other wards I was told not to worry as visits would continue. Only during my last two weeks when I was moved to the Spiral unit did I not see anyone. I so looked forward to those visits and wish John had been as lucky. Sincerely, Brenda Gray, Fleetwood The Smart Group Electrical Contractors/Testing &, Inspection Engineers •, Ecclesiastical Specialists •, •, Domestic &, Commercial •, •, Industrial and Agricultural •, •, Periodic Inspections and Testing •, •, Portable Appliance Testing •, Part P and Trustmark Registered Tel: 07702 208519 and 07932 045773 Email: enquiries@smartgroup.org.uk DIOCESAN SUPPLIERS Serving Churches Schools, Commercial and Domestic Sector Complete pest control solutions call To advertise please contact Caroline on 01223 969506 or email carolineg@cathcom.org Church Pews Uncomfortable? Why not try top quality upholstered foam pew cushions? Safefoam, Green Lane, Riley Green, Hoghton, Preston PR5 0SN www.safefoam.co.uk Freephone 0800 015 44 33 Free Sample Pack of foam &, fabrics sent by first clss mail When phoning please quote MV101 School building work and refurbishment/ conversion, building and joinery work, extensions, alterations &, repairs, loft conversions, replacement doors and windows Builders Yard, 66 Marsden Street, Kirkham, Preston PR4 2TH Tel: (01772) 684489 Fax: (01772) 671486 email: admin@jeharrison.co.uk www.jeharrisonbuilders.co.uk

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8 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + June 2015 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk C aminos de Pasion is a cultural tourist route in the heart of Andalusia. Here you can experience the Semana Santa (Easter Week) celebrations dating back to 1521. There is much to marvel at: beautiful scenery, towns full of history and individual traditions, special food eaten specifically during the celebrations, music and of course the processions that bring to life the horrors of Holy Week in life sized figures carried on pasos or huge floats. So big and weighty are some of the pasos that up to 40 men bear around 35lbs of weight each either on their shoulders or by lifting crossbars under the pasos. Imagine the cobbled streets and and hilly terrain of Andalucia and you get some idea of the ordeal that the brotherhoods (or locals) put themselves through, both to recount the Passion and as penance for their sins. It was amazing how the pasos were navigated through the narrow streets often having to complete 180 degree turns by shovelling from side to side until the manoeuvre was complete. Each paso is painstakingly decorated with hundreds and hundreds of flow ers and those bearing the Virgin Mary additionally adorned with lighted candles. Elsewhere participants depict Old and New Testament characters that stream out from various streets to form a huge crocodile of history in life form. ‘,Caminos de Pasion’, The trail takes in Osuna, Baena. Puenta Genil, Priego de Cordoba, Alcala La Real, Lucena and Cabra, each town bringing their own traditions whether in their use of music, the constant beating of drums, dramatisation, or sheer solemnity. The same celebrations but each one performed to local customs and tradition. Everyone seems to take to the street, young and old alike, in fact so rooted is the tradition that one of the towns with a population of 20,000 boasts a 100% increase during Passion Week as people return ‘,home ’, to celebrate with their family and friends. The celebrations begin on the Saturday before Palm Sunday and build to a crescendo on Good Friday when the processions last for up to 8 hours before the processions celebrating the resurrection are held. Good footwear is essential and whilst this year the celebrations enjoyed some wonderfully warm weather it is not always the case and it is well to be prepared for cooler showery conditions. If you are looking for a pilgrimage with something that is a bit different the Caminos de Pasion may just fit the bill. I would certainly recommend the trip for families, there is much to see and experience and the local people only too keen to explain their town’,s particular traditions. Edwina Gillett Able Wills Professional Will Writers &, Estate Planners Have you been meaning to make a Will but never got round to it? Do you own property? Are your children under 18? Are you worried about nursing home fees? Might your estate be liable to Inheritance Tax? If the answer to any of the above is “,Yes”, then we can help. Specialists for: Wills and Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney, Property &, Discretionary Trusts, Funeral Plans Call Malcolm Nightingale For a FREE home visit. 01539 737400 7, Windermere Road, Kendal SELF STORAGE Secure Units Available Sizes To Suit All Needs Competitive Rates From as little as £,5 per week Open 7 Days Also Caravan/Car/Boat Storage Curly Tail Storage, Park Lane, Forton Tel: 01524 791837 www.curlytailstorage.co.uk Please support our advertisers, without them we could not publish this paper free of charge to the parishes

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June 2015 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 9 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk O n 19 March 2005, after several years of meetings, prayer and many set- backs, the first Cenacolo Community in the United Kingdom was finally opened by Mother Elvira and Bishop Patrick O’,Donoghue in Dodding Green at a place where there has been a sacred refuge and church at since the 1600`s. Dodding Green was once a dispatching place for priests during the Reformation when Catholic recusants were persecuted by the state. The house and grounds still exude a sense of refuge –, but also of peace. Cenacolo UK is a registered charity and receives no support from official agencies. As with all Communities, the community at Dodding Green relies on Providence, prayer and the generosity of its supporters for their everyday needs. Unlike a conventional rehabilitation unit, there are no doctors, counsellors, psychiatrists, psychotherapists, or medication. The Cenacolo Community was founded by Mother Elvira Petrozzi in Saluzzo (Cuneo, Italy) on July 16, 1983, on the Feast of Our Cenacolo UK –, The first ten years Lady of Mount Carmel. Her father had been an alcoholic and she knew, all too well, the impact on families of addiction. After years of waiting and prayer, she received the keys of an abandoned house, and opened it to welcome and provide lodging for young people who were sad, rootless and disillusioned. Many were addicted to drugs and disoriented. As people looking for help continued to grow, other houses were opened, first in Italy, and then in other countries of the world so that there are now more than 60 Houses around the world. Mother Elvira named the Community ‘,Cenacolo’, for the ‘,Upper Room’, where Jesus’, disciples spent time as hostages to fear before their liberation by the the resurrected Christ and the Holy Spirit. The vision and mission of the Community is the rebirth of those once imprisoned by their addiction. Life in the community is apparently simple, centred on work, prayer and friendship. The reality is a testing of individual spirit to the utmost. The friendship of community is what supports the addict on his pathway to rebirth. Each house tries to be self-sufficient, growing its own vegetables. Where it’,s appropriate, animals are kept –, cows, pigs, chickens and goats. But each House relies very much upon God’,s providence in the form of gifts of food and other essentials. Each Fraternity is run by re covering addicts themselves under the overall direction of Sister Elvira and the priests of the Cenacolo Mother House in Saluzzo. The Community is seen as a ‘,school of life’, where members learn again to live with dignity and respect for themselves and each other. It is not necessary to have a belief in God to join the Community but a strong commitment to change the way that life has been lived in the past. Over the Bank Holiday weekend, (May 2nd &, 3rd 2015) past members of the UK Fraternity and their families, together with benefactors and supporters, will come together in Kendal to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the foundation of the Dodding Green Fraternity. On this occasion we recall the words of Bishop O’,Donoghue who described Cenacolo as “,a very precious gift to our Church and our world”,. He said, “,In Cenacolo we see in a special way what is possible under the power and direction of the Holy Spirit. We see conversion in a wonderful way, broken lives being healed. Cenacolo is a treasure not just for the addicts and their families …,but for society in Britain today. The challenge for us now is to enable Cenacolo to flourish within our society and continually pray that the spread of new houses and communities will grow and develop. This can only be achieved by all of our prayers, therefore we must persist in our prayers to the Holy Spirit that we may grow in strength and commitment to helping the UK Cenacolo`s advancement.”, If you know of someone who could benefit from the opportunity to spend time in Community or if you feel moved to become a supporter, please visit the website: www.cenacolouk.org Peter King The AGM and Mass will be held at Cardinal Newman College on Saturday 27th June 2015 at 2.00 p.m. Further details 01772 863423 01253 733985 THE SISTERS OF NAZARETH Do you believe there is more to Life? Looking for a Challenge in ......... PRAYER? COMMUNITY? MINISTRY? IF SO CONTACT... SISTER FRANCES 07906372786 vocinfo@sistersofnazareth.com To advertise please contact Caroline on 01223 969506 or email carolineg@ cathcom.org

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Easter Sunday Morning Reflection 10 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + June 2015 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk A s my grandson who is not quite four wished everyone a happy birthday on Easter Sunday morning, I thought “,How appropriate”, , remembering how the night before at the Easter Vigil Mass I renewed my Baptismal promises. How grateful I was, and I thanked God for my parents who had me Baptised all those years ago. Being brought into the church through baptism we become a member P ilate said to Jesus, ‘,So you are a King?’, Jesus answered, ‘,You say that I am a King. For this I was born and for this I have come into the world to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears my voice’,. Pilate said to Him, ‘,What is truth?’, Jesus gives his followers many words about truth. ‘,If you continue in my word you are truly my disciples and you will know the truth and the truth will set you free’,. He said, ‘,I am the Way, the truth and the life’,. However we decide to live our lives we cannot change the truth, but the truth can change us. However low we feel, however sad and lonely, truth can set us free. If your life has been changed by Jesus and you have humbly accepted this grace and are trying to spread truth, this is love in action. Jesus’, life was truth in action, loving and sacrificing for love of us. We are living at a time when so many think that whatever they think is true, is true! Truth can never be based on popularity, power, money, gratifying whims. Truth is absolute. Pilate knew Jesus was innocent. ‘,I find no basis for a charge against Him’, . But the popular opinion was against Jesus and they had their way. Our imagination can take flight and it is through deeds that we see the freedom of faith and truth. There is, then, no bitterness, no jealousy, no anger. By believing in Jesus’, plan, T he Stations of the Cross, designed and created by all the children of St John Vianney Primary School, Blackpool. of a bigger family, the family of God. Of course not all families are perfect, and it can be very hard to love everybody and to be the kind of person God wants me to be. But I can always turn to Him and start again when I fail. I love my faith as it has brought me to know the love God has for me. To all who were Baptised and brought into the church at Easter all I can say is “,Happy Birthday”, . Yvonne Talbutt What is Truth? His truth, we see it is good for us and it gives us joy and happiness. Truth with family members might not go down well at the time but said with love and respect it is the right thing to do. We have been assertive and honest with ourselves too. We only find difficulty when we don’,t listen, don’,t want the truth, don’,t want God. The answers we want are very often not what God wants to give us. The truth can irritate, but it will always liberate. Jesus instructs the Church to discipline its members. A loving heart tells the truth kindly but firmly and there would be no Church without the love of Jesus. It was love that was crucified, that we might know the true meaning of love. Jesus said, ‘,If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will pray to the Father, and He will give you another Counsellor, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. You know Him, for He dwells with you, and will be in you’,. Abiding in Him, trusting Him, protects us from anger, bitterness, unforgiveness, jealousy and hate. We are children of the light, beacons of light in the battle, safe in His care, submitted to His truth. Maria, Lancaster •, Memorials •, Renovations •, Lettering •, Marble •, Granite •, Slate •, Stone of all kinds, colour &, designs •, Wray Brothers are long established monumental masons highly regarded for quality of their workmanship and personal service. Traditional Hand Cut Letters Proprietors: S. A. Edwards, M. A. Edwards, G. Edwards 51a Layton Road, Layton, Blackpool FY3 8EB Tel/Fax: 01253 392620 Established 1839

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June 2015 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 11 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk B rian Guerin was a baker and confectioner and Eileen Penningroth was a typist, who would have thought when they attended the St Patrick’,s Dance at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool on 17th March 1954 that a year later they would be married and 60 years on celebrating their Diamond Wedding Anniversary. They were married on 24 March 1955 at St John Vianney’,s, Blackpool. It was a Thursday as in those days tax relief was a major factor if married before 5th April. They held a reception for over 50 family and friends, going to Jersey for their honeymoon. They are both still keen Blackpool FC A lan and I have just returned from India and wanted to let you know how the hard earned money raised for Curry Aid has been spent. I was asked to say a very big thank you to everyone for the generous support which makes such a difference. You can imagine how difficult it is to raise money in Indian communities where they have little for themselves, never mind those who are destitute! I am pleased to say we have been able to support children, including some with special needs, in 2 orphanages. We have been able to pay for their education fees and buy clothes for them to wear. Each year we try to do something special and this year we were able to buy a school uniform for them, something they have never had before which is just fantastic. When we are there we try and give the children a special day with plenty of treats. It`s like a Christmas Day for them. This year we gave them sweets, fruits, Indian snacks which they helped themselves to. They were so thrilled on finding enough goodies to keep them going for a week. We are only able to do all this by the generosity of all who support Curry Aid. You may remember last year I mentioned about helping a Mother and her son who both had heart complaints. I am pleased to say Curry Aid because of the kindness of Curry Aid people we were able to help them both again and Madesh is now home with his mother. They were totally overcome with the kindness of the people of Eden. Madesh’,s mother sends a big awesome thank you for giving her son back to her as he was in an orphanage and now she can look after him herself. I felt the whole experience very moving and emotional as we have so much and take so many things for granted, while they have so little. If anyone would like to do some fund raising for Curry Aid please contact me, Jessie Oddy on 017683 51227 . Diamond Celebration supporters attending the home matches when they can and they like to socialise in their local each week with friends. Eileen is a member of the Retired Staff Association of Marks and Spencer after having worked there for 25 years. She is also Chair of the Governors at Our Lady of the Assumption since 1997 and a Governor since 1978. Eileen and Ben’,s children and grandchildren all attended Our Lady of the Assumption and now does their great granddaughter. Together they run the choir and are heavily involved with Our Lady of the Assumption Parish where they have lived for over 50 years. Both have been awarded the Bene Merenti for their work for the Church. They have also received a Papal blessing from the Pope on their Golden Wedding Anniversary and a card from the Queen. Eileen and Brian have three grown up children all still living on the Fylde and they have 8 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. They celebrated on their diamond anniversary with a party for over 30 family and friends and instead of presents they asked for donations for the Special Care baby unit at Blackpool Victoria Hospital. They said that the secret to a long and happy marriage is Prayer and Perseverance! Mrs Beverley Davenport Martin`s The Funeral Directors 188, Tulketh Brow, Ashton-on-Ribble, Preston 1, Stonebridge Parade, Preston Road, Longridge Tel. 01772-733007 or 01772-782121 Proprietor W. Martin Wootton Dedicated and Blessed Chapels of Rest Golden Charter Pre-Paid Funeral Plans The complete funeral service from a private family owned and run firm WILLIAM HOUGHTON FUNERAL DIRECTORS An Independent Catholic Family Firm Serving our community for over 100 years 259 Garstang Road, Fulwood, PR2 9XL Tel: 01772 788020 www.williamhoughtonfunerals.co.uk

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12 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + June 2015 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk I wonder what you were thinking when you dressed this morning. Had you already laid out your clothes for the day? Did certain expectations dictate your choices? The simple fact is that how we dress can say a lot about who we are, what we do, how seriously we take life and its tasks. I have clear memories of one Christmas, when a child, having received a soldier’,s outfit as a present and I can remember, to this day, the sense of pride and purpose that those play clothes invested me with. I also wonder whether, as you dressed you might have put on your clothes over two squares of brown cloth that make up the Carmelite Brown Scapular. Millions of Catholic Christians around the world wear this garment but may be unaware of its story or symbolism. Tradition has handed on to us the story of St Simon Stock. Simon was an Englishman and one of the early leaders of the Carmelite Order. Indeed, it was Simon who led the Order through the time of transition when the hermits who had found a natural home in the hills of Mount Carmel found themselves in a different reality in the Europe of the thirteenth century and who were called to respond to the needs of the Church by living their life in the midst of the people, especially the poor and the marginalised. Tradition tells us that Simon, a man who by his vocation was dedicated to God in a life of prayer and service, had a special devotion to Our Lady. From the earliest times Carmelites have felt a kinship to Mary, the Mother of Jesus. She has a special place in our communities as the mother of the house. Around her we gather in service of her Son. The scapular as worn by Carmelites is seen as marked by this relationship of prayer and service. This part of our habit that was originally an apron, becomes for us a sign of commitment for those who seek to labour in the Lord’,s vineyard. One of the ways that emerged for people to associate themselves with the work and spirituality of a particular group within the Church was to wear a token of the religious habit. Originally for those who sought a kinship with Carmel, the white cloak was the thing that set us apart. Bur slowly the Brown Scapular began to capture the imagination of the people. I also see a relationship with the Tallit, or prayer shawl, worn by orthodox Jews. For the Jewish people the Tallit is a Mary’,s Habit Carmel’,s Way garment that manifests the relationship they have with God. When at prayer, they cover themselves with the Tallit, a symbol of the intimacy of God covering them with his love. During the day a small Shawl is worn, like our scapular, that they can see and touch as a reminder that they belong to God, that they have been chosen by him. Those who wear the scapular are people who seek to live out their relationship with God through prayer and the service of God’,s people. This year sees the 750th anniversary of the death of St Simon Stock in Bordeaux in 1265. Upon his death people prayed for favours from him. Soon his body was brought to the Cathedral in Bordeaux where a chapel is dedicated to him. In 1951 the Archbishop of Bordeaux brought his cranium back to Simon’,s old home at Aylesford, and since then the relic has rested in the chapel dedicated to his memory. To the Carmelite friars who live and work in Aylesford the relics are a reminder of the beautiful truth of our vocation, that we are to be people seeking a vital and intimate relationship with the God who brought us into being and this relationship is to be lived out in the service of others. A great preacher of the life lived by St. Simon Stock was Fr Malachy Lynch, who was the first prior of Aylesford since the reformation. Fr. Malachy would refer to those who wear the Brown Scapular as the “,use me today apostolate”, . Those who wear this simple garment make a statement in this scrap of clothing. I belong to God and, with Him, I want to be of service to His people. So what are you wearing today? What does your dress say about you to others? How does what you wear affect your attitude to life and its cares? Today I will put on my habit and go out to those pilgrims who will come to our Lady’,s Shrine at Aylesford. I will do so in the knowledge that millions across this good earth will do the same and touch the lives of the people that they will meet in the course of their work and play. And the world is better for it. Fr. Damian Cassidy, O.Carm, Prior of the Carmelite Community in Aylesford On Saturday 16th May 2015 a special pilgrimage took place at Aylesford Priory to mark the 750th Anniversary of the death of St. Simon Stock. During the day there was a talk on the Brown Scapular which concluded with Mass.

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June 2015 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 13 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk T here are many branches of the Sisters of Mercy, founded by Venerable Catherine McAuley in Dublin in 1841. Our Institute, the Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma, Michigan (USA) , was established in 1973 in response to the renewal called for in the Second Vatican Council. We profess vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, as well as a fourth vow of service to the Church, as we seek to dedicate our lives to the praise and worship of the Holy Trinity through the spiritual and corporal works of mercy. In September 2014, Sr. Mary Julian, RSM and Sr. Mary Prudence, RSM were asked to go to the Diocese of Lancaster at the invitation of Bishop Michael Campbell, OSA. After eight months in Catterall, they moved to St. Augustine’,s Convent, The Religious Sisters of Mercy Preston, where I joined them last July. Prayer is our primary activity, but we strive to see every activity as an expression of prayer. In each of our convents, we begin the day with the Liturgy of the Hours and a period of meditation, f ollowed by Mass. We go to different places of work during the day, coming together again in the evening for Holy Hour, dinner, and recreation. We end the day with Night Prayer. As Religious, we are able to evangelise through our daily lives –, people we meet on the street, even non-Christians, ask for prayers, or tell of their joys and sorrows, recognising us as people of prayer. Although we are still relatively small, our Sisters are in a number of convents in the United States, as well as Rome, Germany, Australia, and now, England. My primary work here is at the Diocesan Tribunal at the Pastoral Centre in Lancaster, where I serve as a judge on marriage cases. I also collaborate with Canon Tim Sullivan, Father Andrew Dawson, and Deacon George Bissett on the diocesan Diaconate Formation Team to assist the Bishop in programmes for permanent deacons and candidates. Sr. Mary Julian and Sr. Mary Prudence are assistant Catholic chaplains at the University of Lancaster. They pray Holy Hour there three evenings a week, and we all attend Mass at the Catholic chapel on Sunday. In addition, Sister Mary Julian, our local Superior, is the Director of the Office for New Evangelisation and Sister Mary Prudence works on the Bishop’,s archives. In January, we were very happy to welcome Nichola Pope from Blackpool as the first young woman from England interested in becoming a Religious Sister of Mercy! She has been accepted to become a Postulant, the first step in becoming a Sister. I first met the Sisters 30 years ago. I had just finished three years as a Peace Corps Volunteer, serving as an engineer building village water supplies in the Kingdom of Lesotho, southern Africa. Afterwards, I travelled for seven months and towards the end, while visiting a friend, I met the Sisters of Mercy. I was immediately attracted by their life of prayer, their love of God and of each other, their joy, and the integration of all that with their professional lives. Sister Mary Pierre Jean Wilson RSM SPOTLIGHT ON Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 9PZ Headteacher Mr Andrew Johnson Tel 01254 827073 Celebrating Our Schools St Pius X Catholic Preparatory School and Oak House Nursery 200 Garstang Road, Fulwood, Preston PR2 8RD Headteacher Miss B M Banks M.A. Tel: 01772 719937/713630 Email: enquiries@st-piusx.lancs.sch.uk Christ the King Catholic Maths &, Computing College Lawrence Avenue, Frenchwood, Preston PR1 4LX Headteacher Mr D Callagher Tel: (01772) 252072 Fax: (01772) 885674 Email: reception@ctk.lancs.sch.uk Web: http://www.ctk.lancs.sch.uk St Bernadette`s Catholic Primary School Devonshire Road, Bispham Blackpool, Lancashire FY2 0AJ Headteacher: Mrs M T Holden Tel: 01253 353641 E-mail: admin@st-bernadette.blackpool.sch.uk These Schools are proud to support The Lancaster Voice

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14 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + June 2015 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk Open your hearts... For further information with regard to vocations to the priesthood contact one of the team: Vocations Director Fr. Darren Carden Email: priest@lancastervocations.org Tel: 01772719604 Mobile: 07552795060 Assistant Vocations Director Fr. John Millar Email: jwmillar1@gmail.com Tel: 01228521509 Facebook: Lancaster Vocations Twitter: atLancVoc I t is difficult to imagine how a self-confessed atheist could become a priest but this is today’,s story. Fr. Graham, a priest of the diocese of Brentwood, tells us what happened to him when he opened his heart to God. , BIBLE STORIES AT BEDTIME ,and Jesus Christ Superstar were the main content of my faith growing up. Although intrigued by the gentle and passionate character of Jesus in the musical, it was while working as a graphic designer that my colleague helped me to open my heart to God. Mick was a devout Catholic who knew about his faith and lived it. At that point, I was an atheist who had an issue with the Catholic Church, so inevitably we clashed. I would throw all my arguments at him with all the fervour of a second rate Richard Dawkins and he would answer with all the passion of a second generation Northern Irish Catholic. Behind my ridicule was someone trying to find God. After quite a few arguments I decided to stop arguing and listen. I even accepted his invitation to go to mass and witnessed something that evening that I had never seen before. Something special, something sacred and I wanted more. I enquired about becoming a Catholic immediately and was on an RCIA course within weeks. Questions began to flow as I journeyed towards my baptism and new ones started to form as I sensed a gentle call to the priesthood. At first I dared not mention it, but as with all my questions, when I was ,prepared to face them, there was always someone wise to help me along the way. I was ordained in 2002, it is a day I will never forget. Looking back I realise it was a long journey but one I would not change for the world. A moment of prayer , In the name of the father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen Our Father…, Hail Mary.. Glory be…, Lord Jesus Christ, Good Shepherd of our souls, you who know your sheep and know how to reach our hearts, open the minds and hearts of those young people who search for and await a word of truth for their lives, let them understand that only in the mystery of your incarnation do they find full light, arouse the courage of those who know where to seek the truth, but fear that what you ask will be too demanding. Stir in the hearts of those young people who would follow you, but who cannot overcome doubts and fears, and who in the end follow other voices and other paths which lead nowhere. You are the Word of the Father, the Word which creates and saves, the Word which enlightens and sustains hearts, conquer with your Spirit the resistance and delays of indecisive hearts, arouse in those whom you call the courage of love’,s answer: “,Here I am, send me!”, Change a life - 5 days of prayer for vocations has been produced by the National Office for Vocations for England and Wales. Each day there is a reflection and prayer written by either a priest or a religious. We have chosen openness written by Fr. Graham from Brentwood Diocese. Fr. Graham’,s story of a self-confessed atheist to Catholic Priest certainly shows the power of the Holy Spirit at work. ‘,Open your hearts to the love God instils . . . God loves you tenderly’, Blessed Teresa of Calcutta The Shrine of Our Lady &, the English Martyrs Led by Bishop Michael Campbell OSA Bishop of Lancaster Date: 20th June 2015 Commencing with [Eucharistic procession] from St Mary’,s Church at [2pm], Weather permitting. Homily &, Benediction at [3pm] Confessions will be available Rev. Fr. Ernest E. Attah, HFFBY Ref Fr Mario-Benedict U. Ashuikeka, HFFBY (Shrine Directors) For further details please call: 01772 700181 admin@ladyewellshrine.co.uk Ladyewell, Fernyhalgh Lane, Fulwood, Preston PR2 5RR Groups of 10+ are kindly asked to contact the Shrine in advance to give notice of their attendance/numbers Boarbank Hall Contact: Sr Anne Donockley Boarbank Hall, Grange over Sands Cumbria LA11 7NH Telephone: 015395 32288 Website: www.boarbankhall.org.uk Canonesses of St Augustine of the Mercy of Jesus “,You desire to be builders of peace, possess it yourselves first”, - St Augustine A Warm Welcome to Everyone Prayer , Community , Hospitality , Care of the poor and sick Please support our advertisers, without them we could not publish this paper free of charge to the parishes M ass Listings –, June 2015 Thursday June 4th at 7.00 pm Corpus Christi Our Lady &, St Joseph, Carlisle Sunday June 7th at 6.00 pm Second Sunday after Pentecost Our Lady &, St Joseph, Carlisle Sunday June 14th at 6.00 pm Third Sunday after Pentecost Our Lady &, St Joseph, Carlisle Sunday June 21st at 6.00 pm Fourth Sunday after Pentecost Our Lady &, St Joseph, Carlisle Sunday June 28th at 3.00 pm Fifth Sunday after Pentecost St Peter`s Cathedral, Lancaster Sunday June 28th at 6.00 pm Fifth Sunday after Pentecost Our Lady &, St Joseph, Carlisle Monday June 29th at 7.30 am SS Peter &, Paul Our Lady &, St Joseph, Carlisle Shrine Church of St Walburge, Preston Mondays –, Fridays: 12 noon, Low Mass (except First Friday 7.00 pm) Saturdays: 10.30 am, Low Mass Sundays: 10.30 am, Sung Mass Mass is also celebrated every Sunday at 8.30 am at St Mary Magdalene, Leyland Road, Penwortham and 11.30 am at St Catherine Labouré,, Stanifield Lane, Leyland. Local Representatives: Bob &, Jane Latin Telephone: 01524 412987 Email: lancasterlms@gmail.com Website: latinmasslancaster.blogspot.com CALLING ALL HEADTEACHERS If you are planning an Open Day in the Autumn Term or have any staff vacancies please remember to advertise these in The ‘,Lancaster Voice’,. Advert rates are reasonable and all that is needed is an email or a phone call to carolineg@cathcom.org or tel 01223 969506

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June 2015 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 15 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk D uring Lent, pupils from the Cathedral Primary School, raised money to support a project called ‘,Prayers from our Hearts’, , organised by the international Catholic charity, ‘,Ai d to the Church in Need’, (ACN). The money raised will support ACN’,s work with Iraqi and Syrian refugees. Headteacher, Miss Anne Goddard joined by the headboy and headgirl present Caroline Hull, the North West manager of ACN, with a cheque for £,511 and a heart filled with prayers written by the children. I am so proud and very fortunate to have been appointed as the new Headteacher of St Peter’,s Catholic Primary School, Lytham. St Peter’,s is so rich in tradition and at the heart of Catholic life in the area that I feel really honoured to now be leading this very successful primary school. As I finish my first very busy term I am enormously grateful to the wonderful hard working staff team and Governors whose commitment and ambition for the school is second to none, and to the parents and wider parish communities for their warmth of welcome. A big ‘,hello’, to all the children of St Peter’,s, it has been an absolute pleasure getting to know you all! I always wanted to be a teacher and have enjoyed a very happy career in teaching, for the most part at St Kentigern’,s Catholic Primary School in Blackpool, where I became the Deputy Headteacher in 2007. I am so grateful for the many opportunities I enjoyed in this role that have prepared me for my new post. I have certainly been inspired by the dedication and vision of Mrs Frances Wygladala the Headteacher there. Mrs Hayes Settles In I have truly loved my first few months as Headteacher at St Peter’,s, the role is exciting and so rewarding, where every day brings a different set of challenges. However the enormity of the role, the pace and variety can often feel quite overwhelming and it can be difficult to find time to relax and re-charge. Quality family time is really important to me and I am very blessed to have two wonderful children Rebecca (15) and Adam (12) and husband David to share it with. As I look to the future for St Peter’,s school I am inspired by the life of our patron saint. St Peter was chosen by Jesus to lead the Church, he is the ultimate example of Discipleship and service. St Peter demonstrated amazing faith, courage and determination in bringing the Gospel to the early church. As Headteacher I am filled with enthusiasm for how we can build upon the successes of the past and I look forward to being a part of the next chapter in the life of St Peter’,s Catholic Primary School. Mrs Angela Hayes Prayers from our Hearts ST PETER’,S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL CATHEDRAL PRIMARY SCHOOL

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16 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + June 2015 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk T HREE TIMES a year my four adult children come to me with moans and groans as they pose the question of “,What can we buy for Dad?”, Many families, of course, are often faced with the same problem, but in ours there’,s a wee bit of a difference…, Of course the three times in each year refer to Christmas, birthday and Fathers’, Day. But the key problem which we, as a family are faced with, isn’,t so much trying to come up with an original gift idea. No, it’,s trying to dissuade ‘,Dad’, away from his weird gift list. You see, most dads are content to suggest socks, a book, chocolates or maybe a jumper. Unfortunately, this is not the case with my husband. If I cast my mind back over previous years he has asked for a bike (which he has only ever ridden once), a filing cabinet, a set of steps, an office chair and probably best of all, a nasal hair trimmer! Bizarre Sometimes we give in to his bizarre requests and sometimes we don’,t, but of course, when it comes to Father’,s Day it is purely up to my offspring to decide for themselves whether to humour him or not. Who Needs Gifts on Fathers’, Day The love which we hold for our own fathers is important and Father’,s Day is surely a clear recognition of that fact. Yet if we follow the Lord’,s first commandment to love the Lord our God and Father with all our heart, soul and mind, then we should be actually celebrating Fathers’, Day each and every single day of the year. And better still: in celebrating the love of God the Father, we have no need to rack our brains to think of which gifts to give to him. Celebrate The reason for this is simple. If we try to follow the path that Christ set out for us, we are then giving the Lord our very best gift. And that’,s not all: we don’,t have to find gifts to give to God. We simply have to make good use of the ones which he has gifted us with, for the benefit of others. So on Fathers’, Day give your dad a treat by all means, because I’,m sure he deserves it. But don’,t forget to celebrate the Lord’,s presence in your life on this day too. And at least in so doing you won’,t have to worry about how to wrap up a bike…,! Julia Beacroft is a catechist and pastoral volunteer who lives in Torquay. Her first book ‘,Sanctifying the Spirit’, will be published and available to buy next year. Julia Beacroft Please support our advertisers, without them we could not publish this paper free of charge to the parishes Lay Chaplain Vacancy Post: Lay Chaplain (permanent) Hours of work: 8:45am –, 3:30pm 6 hours a day. 5 days a week. Term time only. Rate of pay: HLTA Starting date: September 2015 (or later if notice be served) The Governors of The Blessed Sacrament Primary and St Maria Goretti Primary are seeking to appoint a Lay Chaplain to work across our two schools. This is a unique post as the person appointed will be the first Lay Chaplain appointed to work within Primary schools in Lancaster Diocese. As Headteachers of Catholic Primary schools, the faith life of our pupils is of paramount importance to us, our schools are places of sanctuary and spiritual development. It is our aim that the Lay Chaplain will assist us in achieving our core mission of feeding our children a rich faith diet. Interested candidates are welcome to contact us for an informal discussion before applying. Phone us to discuss this unique opportunity further. Katie Tomlinson Headteacher The Blessed Sacrament 01772 792572 Elaine Chambers Headteacher St Maria Goretti 01772 700052 Closing Date: 12 noon Monday 22nd June 2015 Shortlisting Date: 26th June 2015 Interview Date: 9th July Application form available from the Catholic Education Website (Lay Chaplain form) and should be returned by Post to Katie Tomlinson, Headteacher at The Blessed Sacrament Primary School, Farringdon Lane, Ribbleton, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 6LZ, or by email to head@blessedsacrament.lancs.sch.uk

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