Summer 2017 Lord, the resurrection of Your Son has given us new life and renewed hope. Help us to live as new people in pursuit of the Christian ideal. Grant us wisdom to know what we must do, the will to want to do it, the courage to undertake it, the perseverance to continue to do it, and the strength to complete it. Photos, copy and distribution queries for The Catholic Mother should be sent to Margaret Postill, National Media Officer, 23 Il kley Crescent, Reddish, Stockport, Cheshire, SK5 6HG or by email to catholic.mother@yahoo.co.uk. For further details about the Union of Catholic Mothe rs please contact the National Secretary, Irene Mitchell, at ucmnatsec@yahoo.co.uk We began by offering Holy Mass for a successful conference at the Hayes Centre, Swanwick Derbyshire where over 120 UCM members, officers and clergy came from all corners of the country for the 2017 National Council and AGM. Special guests were President of UCM Wales, Rose Maunder, President of UCM Scotland, Pauline Porter and Mother’s Union Representative Jean Price. As we arrived at Swanwick, we were greeted by Diocesan President Diana Norman from Plymouth and her wonderful members who looked after everyone and made sure it all went smoothly. It is always nice to meet up with friends, old and new and there is so much to chat about, but our President Val Ward keeps us in line, so each session starts and finishes on time. Fran and Hannah gave a splendid, informative talk and presentation about Mary’s Meals and there was a collection at the end of their presentation; we also donated half of the raffle money to their charity. The other half of the raffle money was donated to Galloways who record the Catholic Mother Newspaper for our visually impaired members. We were joined on the Tuesday by The Right Reverend Mark O’Toole, Bishop of Plymouth and Bishop Alan Williams Spiritual Advisor to The Union of Catholic Mothers, who were both inspirational speakers. Fun is a big part of this group and after the busy Tuesday business was completed, Diana Norman and her team entertained us with camp fire songs, with which we all joined in and later there was dancing; the officers showed us all how it is done!! We also celebrated the 95th birthday of Past Archdiocesan President of Liverpool Joan Jenkins, whose daughter had arranged a buffet for everyone and a beautiful birthday cake. The theme for Council was ‘The Way Forward’, recruiting and helping members to recognise the skills they have. As with many organisations the UCM are facing many challenges. It is very important for member to come forward to take office, if they can, when posts become open, without this The UCM will cease to exist. Our President said “We only fail if we quit – don’t quit!” Margaret Postill, National Media Officer National Council 2017 National Study Conference 2017 The theme of this year’s study conference was Pope Francis’ encyclical letter Laudate Si, which was published on the feast of Pentecost, 24th May 2015. In this document Pope Francis presents what he sees as the major impacts of man on our world and states that he would ‘like to enter into dialogue with all people about our common home’. He laments that ‘we have come to see ourselves as the Earth’s lords and masters, entitled to plunder her at will’ and points out that there is an inseparable bond in our concern for nature, the way in which we ensure justice for the poor, our commitment to society and our inner peace. He states that he wants to bring ‘the whole human family together to seek a sustainable solution’, to have ‘a new dialogue’ about how we shape the future of our planet and that this should include everyone, since the challenges we are facing affect us all.The theme was chosen to help improve our knowledge and understanding of various aspects of our faith and thus to help us to live as Catholic women in accordance with God’s will. Speakers were Fr Liam Hayes and Fr Augusto Zampini from Cafod, and Henry Emblem, Environmental Packaging Solutions. Fr Liam urged us to think of Laudate Si not as a document, but as a process in which we are invited to take part. This invitation is extended to every person on the planet and at its heart is a redefining of our understanding of progress. He invited us to reflect on what progress means to us:  Universal peace;  Everyone moving forward together, no one left behind;  All people living and working together, happy in each other’s company;  Everyone living in harmony and everyone is valued;  Improving on (and continuing with) God’s creation; Fr Augusto explained some of the key points behind the writing of the encyclical, such as the avoidance of any reference to God in the title, to appeal to those who do not have a god. In breaking down the sub-title ‘on the care of our common home’, he explained: ‘Care’ in the context of UCM: we care about what we love. A mother knows that to care for a child means walking the extra mile; to care is to love creation as it is given to us and to make sacrifices to nourish that creation. God created this planet, it is the only one we have and we must care for it - there is no plan B to which we can turn if we get it wrong. ‘Common’: we have something in common with all creatures; we do not operate independently - every decision we take has its consequences for others, every time we destroy a species, it is dramatic for creation. Social crises affect the web of life and we are all part of the problem, especially those who live in the developed northern hemisphere. The gifts of creation are for all, including the next generation. Related to this point, we were encouraged to each write a letter to a grandchild, great niece or nephew, setting out our hopes for them when they reach our age. ‘Home’: coming from the Greek word oikos refers to economics or the administration of the house. So how are we administering our home in the global sense? Economics should serve people; people should not be slaves to profit. Similarly, the master is there to serve, ref. the servant king in Philippians 2, 1-7. In summary he encouraged us always to think about the connection between what we do and its social, environmental and economic consequences. Having ‘unpacked’ the encyclical for us in this way, Fr Augusto and Fr Liam celebrated Mass for us to finish off this part of the conference. Day 2 was structured to help us understand some of the background science in the encyclical, referred to by Fr Liam and Fr Augusto. Henry Emblem took us through a series of short presentations to deliver the key facts, followed by small-group discussions and feedback to help to develop ideas for action, to enable us to meet Pope Francis’ appeal: ‘our goal is not to amass information or to satisfy curiosity, but rather to ….discover what each of us can do about it’. Themes covered included: (numbers in brackets refer to clauses in the encyclical letter) • Sustainable and integral development (13) • ‘everything in the world is connected’ (16) • ‘environmental, social, economic implications’ (25) • A truly ecological approach always becomes a social approach… (49) • Speed of human activity (18) (rate of technological change) • Atmospheric pollution & health (20) • Waste: ‘hundreds of millions of tonnes of waste’ (21) • Throwaway culture; reuse; circular model (22) • Non-renewable vs renewable resources; reuse and recycling (22) • Climate change (25) global warming, rising sea level, extreme weather (23, 24) melting of polar icecaps (24) • Greenhouse gases: what are they, what problems do they cause & why? • Fossil fuels as main energy source (23) renewable energy (26) • Fresh drinking water (28, 29, 30) • Biodiversity (32 – 35) • Packaging – ‘avoid the use of plastics & paper’ . One particular point raised during the group workshop on how we handle our household waste was the great diversity of operations amongst Local Authorities. Some have highly efficient systems for collecting and separating all types of waste to be recycled, others appear to have minimal systems in place, with little sorting being carried out and others lie somewhere in between. Within the groups there was an enthusiastic willingness to recycle our waste, but without the appropriate facilities available locally, this cannot be realised. Therefore, it was agreed that the UCM should formulate a letter to be sent to Resources minister Dr Therese Coffey, calling for Local Authorities to adopt a common method of collecting and sorting household waste, to enable efficient recycling across the country. Mary Piper and Anne Emblem , National Vice Presidents Left to righ: Irene Mitchell, Bishop Mark O`Toole, Val Ward, Angela Higginson, Bishop Alan Williams Joan Jenkins Fr Augusto Zampini and Fr Liam Hayes.

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Page 2 Summer 2017 The Catholic Mother From the National President Hello everyone As the long-awaited summer starts to arrive, I begin my third and final year as National President and the year so far has been the usual spells of being busy and quiet. There was just one meeting in January and one in February and then a very busy March. I attended UCM Wales annual conference and AGM in Cardiff where I was made to feel most welcome. It was a very full programme and during the three days there were speakers from ‘Humanitarian Aid’ who are a response group dealing with disasters in places around the world and ‘Purple Bus’ which is a Salvation Army Project in Cardiff helping the homeless people of the area. There were reports from the Officers and we finished with a rousing ‘We’ll keep a welcome in the hillside…’. I travelled to London with young people from the local High School to the ‘Flame’ convention at Wembley Arena. It was a spectacular sight as 10,000 young people lit up the arena with their mobile phone lights and their enthusiasm for their faith. It was a most memorable occasion with speeches from Cardinal Bo from Mayanmar, Cardinal Vincent Nichols and an interview with Fr. Augusto Zampini Davis from CAFOD and music by Matt Redmond. A quick Trustee meeting in Manchester was followed by the WUCWO European Conference in Madrid where I met up with Debbie Cottam, the Vice President of NBCW. The conference concentrated on the resolution from Fatima dealing with corruption in all its many forms. My report on this was sent to all the Dioceses at the beginning of May. The two National Vice Presidents had organised the National Study Days at Swanwick, which were well prepared and executed and based on Pope Francis’ encyclical ‘Laudato Si’. One of the speakers was Fr. Augusto Zampini who had been at Flame and he was a most inspiring speaker. In hindsight, I think I am grateful that March was so busy as it stopped me dwelling on my eldest daughter and her family moving to live in Switzerland at the beginning of April. I can’t believe how much we miss them all – even though they have been back twice!! However, they move from their temporary accommodation at the end of this month and into a house and now the children are in school their trips home won’t be so frequent. The bright side is that it’s a short flight from here so I am grateful it’s not even further away. I have also been a guest at the AGM of both Plymouth and Westminster. Thank you to everyone who made my visits so enjoyable. A special thank you to Frances and Paddy O’Neill in Plymouth for your hospitality and friendship. I have just returned from National Council and all the information will be passed to you through your Diocesan Officers. I am joined by the Trustees and Deputy National President at the Garden Party in London later this week and I have a visit to Clifton Diocese in June which I am looking forward to very much. The final ‘big’ event is Walsingham which is always a peaceful and joyous way to finish for the summer break. I hope you all have a wonderful time this summer and the sun shines on us all whether we are at home or abroad. Please keep The UCM in your prayers. Love and many blessings Va l Val Ward National President ARUNDEL AND BRIGHTON Submitting copy for next issue The deadline for articles and photos for the next edition of the Catholic Mother is 14 August 2017 Please send copy to Margaret Postill, National Media Officer, at catholic.mother@yahoo.co.uk Thank you 60th Anniversary AGM The Hythe (Kent) Foundation of The Union of Catholic Mothers held its 60th Anniversary AGM marking the start of a very special year! The photograph depicts the Foundation’s Presentation and Vote of Thanks to Mrs Gillian Badcock as she retires as President in Hythe, following a long association with the UCM in other parishes and at Diocesan, National and International level!! ‘Jill’ has served the UCM during her tenure in Hythe with energy, enthusiasm and great dedication; working actively and tirelessly to promote the ideals and ‘causes’ of the UCM. Jill has been a remarkable President and the Parish of Hythe has greatly benefitted from such a commitment to active evangelisation. Our thanks to Jill are to be echoed from all the members of the Hythe, Kent Foundation of the UCM Rosemary Tierney, Media Officer A short poem from a friend Smiling is infectious: you catch it like the flu. When someone smiled at me today, I started smiling too. I passed around the corner and someone saw me grin, And when he smiled I realised I’d passed it on to him. I thought about that smile, and realised its worth, A single smile like mine can travel round the earth. So if you feel a smile begin, don’t leave it undetected. Let’s start an epidemic quick, and get the world infected Eileen Goodwin Leeds Diocese Haywards Heath Foundation hat decorating competition On the 14th February Haywards Heath Foundation had a hat decorating competition for Valentine’s Day. Rosemary Tierney, Media Officer Enrolment of a new member On the 10th December 2016, Hollington Foundation had a double celebration, the enrolment of a new member Mrs. Patsy Collinson and 50 years of UCM membership by Mrs. June Callaghan. Within weeks of moving into Holy Redeemer Parish Hollington with her husband `Pat` and her little daughter Joanne (just 2years old) June was left a young widow; Mae Kempson a UCM member agreed to help until child care could be `sorted out`, as June had to return to work. This child care lasted all of Joanne`s school life and `Aunty Mae` was a dear friend until her death some years later. June served as Foundation Secretary on more than one occasion and has been a loyal member, June loves her UCM and Joanne has many Aunty mums at this Foundation. The Mass was celebrated by Canon Tom Treherne the UCM Diocesan Chaplain and the 50 years certificate presented by our Diocesan President Mrs. Judy Harkins. Tea and cakes followed. Rosemary Tierney, Media Officer

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The Catholic Mother Summer 2017 Page 3 FAITH AND F INERY … by Julia Beacroft I’ve lost count of the number of fancy- dress costumes that I’ve made for my four adult children over the years, especially during the time that they were at school. The collection covers Victorian, Roman, characters from books, a cat and even a tree, and they fully entered into the spirit of each character with gusto. Yet interestingly I`ve noticed that although children seem to derive great delight in donning a character costume, they are generally less than enthusiastic about wearing smart or formal attire for special occasions. I can vividly remember an incident of this nature, when my four youngsters were smartly dressed for a photographic studio session. My younger son, who had complained and sulked in turns, disappeared at the last moment, only to re-appear having divested himself of his formal trousers and crisp shirt in favour of well-worn jeans and sloppy sweatshirt. Needless to say, he didn’t get away with it! JOYFUL OCCASIONS Most celebrations – whether they are wedding, birthday, anniversary, baptism and a whole range of others – customarily contain certain elements which we have come to associate with them, such as ceremony or rite, food and drink, music, guests, decorations, cake and speeches. And rightly so, as celebrations are joyful occasions. And all of us are familiar with the idea of wearing our best and smartest clothing in honour of one. On First Communion Day the little girls traditionally wear white dresses, often with veils and the boys outfit consists of smart trousers, shirts, ties and sometimes jackets. And of course, they look fantastic. But remarkably, I don’t think I have yet heard one of these children complain about the initiative of having to ‘dress-up’ for this particular occasion. And it seems to me that God’s hand is at work in this. INCIDENTAL EXTRAS But even on such a spirit-filled and moving occasion, there have often been moments of humour. For example, at one particular First Communion preparation session, the subject of the children’s special outfits was raised, with anxious mums posing questions. But the brilliant comment that stood out for me was from one of the girls who would be receiving her first Holy Communion: “My dress is being made AS WE SPEAK!” she claimed. And on the great day itself, wardrobe malfunctions can – and do – occur. I`ve seen the frantic hunt for last minute safety pins for drooping hems, lost buttons and broken zips. To say nothing of needing to carry a veritable hairdresser’s supply of hair grips and clips to secure veils and tiaras which simply won’t stay put. And the incidental extras can be troublesome too. I`ve noticed the most glorious dresses accessorised with little bags, gloves and on one occasion, even a parasol! Unfortunately, I`ve also become aware of the children becoming confused as to where they should put said ‘extras’ during the Mass, especially when the great moment of receiving their first ever Holy Communion arrives. In fact, one lovely little girl nearly strangled herself with the long handle of her little bag in her confusion and haste to do – and be – what was required of her! JUST AS WE ARE It is right and proper that we celebrate the wonderful gift of receiving the Lord’s Body and Blood for the first time. And on such a spiritual and meaningful celebration we should include all the traditional elements of this. We are rightly proud of our young people and we joyfully celebrate with them – the first time, and indeed every single time – both they and we, receive the Lord. Yet we are invited to the table of the Lord just as we are. And part of the wonder of this great gift from God is that it is freely given to each one of us. And we are free to receive it, whether we are dressed in our best finery or in our oldest garments. All we need is faith. Terrorist attack in Manchester - statement from Cardinal Vincent Nichols My shock and dismay at the horrendous killing of young and innocent people in the Manchester Arena, last night, is I know, shared by all people of good will. I know too that Catholics and many others will be praying earnestly for those who have been killed, for the bereaved and for grieving loved ones. We pray in support of all those working so hard in response to this tragedy; the police and security forces, hospital staff, neighbours and friends and for all the people of Manchester. May God, in His mercy, strengthen and sustain us and keep us firmly united in the face of all evil. HE Cardinal Vincent Nichols Archbishop of Westminster http://catholicnews.org.uk/cardinal- manchester-attack-230517 The Queen’s Garden Party - May 2017 It was with excitement and joy that the three Trustees and Deputy National President were invited to attend the Royal Garden Party of Her Majesty the Queen in the gardens of Buckingham Palace on 23rd May 2017. In the event, it was tinged with great sadness as there had been the terrorist attack the night before in Manchester where so many young people were killed and seriously injured. We were not even sure it would go ahead. We were very glad that it was allowed to take place. We all met up in Euston Station and went to our hotel to change, then took a taxi to the Palace. We had been warned that the queues to enter through the main entrance were very long and had been advised to “go around the back”. The information proved to be correct and the queue was much shorter and after security checks we entered into the palace grounds. The weather was cloudy but warm and was probably better than hot and sunny as the grounds are extensive – in fact it was more like a park. There were two bands playing a variety of different music from jazz to the Beatles and everything in-between. At one end is a beautiful lake with a variety of wildlife and the azaleas were stunning. There were plenty of seats available if you just wanted to ‘people watch’ but many people enjoyed wandering around the different flower beds and paths which encircled the gardens. Afternoon Tea was served from large open fronted marquees and we queued up and were able to select the sandwiches and cakes we wanted. They were all delicious. Her Majesty the Queen and the Royal party arrived at 4pm and there was a minute’s silence in memory of the victims of the Manchester bombing the night before. The Royal Party divided into two and Her Majesty the Queen walked through a path created between the people by security where she spoke to quite a number of people but, unfortunately, not us. The Royal Party then went into the Royal Tea tent for afternoon tea. In conversation with Her Majesty the Queen’s Chaplain, Maureen was given the information on where to stand to be in the perfect place when the Royal party emerged. We managed to get to the front of the line to see them on their return walk back to the Palace. Along with Her Majesty the Queen were Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall and the Duke of York and Princess Eugenie. We then sat around talking to different people from around the country and I even met two people from my parish!! One of the most noticeable aspects of the day was the friendliness and approachability of everyone, including a gentleman who offered to email his photographs to Irene because he had a better view – and indeed he did. It was, all too soon, at an end and we went out through the archway into The Mall. A most memorable and exciting day to remember and treasure for the four of us lucky enough to be there. Val Ward National President

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Rose TAYLOR, Costessey Foundation, East Anglia Diocese Mary PORTER, Sutton Foundation, Southwark Diocese Kathleen HICKEN Sacred Heart and St. Peter, Waterlooville Foundation, Portsmouth Diocese DIAMOND WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Win and Dave EHLEN, St Margaret Mary`s Foundation, Liverpool Archdiocese Anne and Norman SHARP, Our Lady Help of Christians Foundation, Folkestone Maureen and David MOISLEY, St Aelred’s Foundation, York, Middlesbrough Diocese Kathleen and Roy STANILAND, St. Joseph`s Foundation, Staveley, Hallam Diocese Kathleen is a past Diocesan President GOLDEN WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Jean and Alan TOFT, Pat and Alan WHITE, Sacred Heart Foundation, Ann and John RILEY, St Margaret Mary`s Foundation, Liverpool Archdiocese Joan and Brian NUTTALL, St Wilfred`s Foundation, Widnes, Liverpool Archdiocese Jackie and John STUBBS, St Wilfred`s Foundation, Widnes, Liverpool Archdiocese Hannah and Michael PUGH, St Aelred’s Foundation, York, Middlesbrough Diocese Kath and Chas DUCKWORTH, St Aelred’s Foundation, York, Middlesbrough Diocese Sheila and Ronnie DOYLE, St Margaret Mary’s Foundation, Liverpool Archdiocese Sheila and Bill SPERNICK, St Joseph`s Foundation, Penketh, Liverpool Archdiocese Margaret and Bill STOPFORTH, St Anne`s Foundation, Ormskirk, Liverpool Archdiocese Sarah and Bill SHEILS, St Aelred’s Foundation, York, Middlesbrough Diocese RUBY WEDDING Cathy and Kevin LENEGHAN, St Anne’s Foundation, Rock Ferry, Shrewsbury Diocese Page 4 Summer 2017 The Catholic Mother 90th BIRTHDAY Emily ELCOCK, Exmouth Foundation, Plymouth Diocese Delia SCRUISE , Holy Family & St Joseph`s Foundation, Sale Moor, Shrewsbury Diocese Bunty KANE, St Saviours & SS John the Baptist and John the Evangelist Foundation, Lewisham, Southwark Archdiocese 85TH BIRTHDAY Celia HARRISON, St Mary’s Foundation, Radcliffe, Salford Diocese 80TH BIRTHDAY Joan EMSLIE, Guardian Angels Foundation, Bury, Salford Diocese Brenda CAFFREY, Guardian Angels Foundation, Bury, Salford Diocese Sheila EDGINGTON, Guardian Angels Foundation, Bury, Salford Diocese Beryl HILLDITCH, St Joseph Foundation, Reddish, Salford Diocese Monica WALTON, Holy Family & St Joseph`s Foundation, Sale Moor, Shrewsbury Diocese Mary PEARSON, St Margaret Mary`s Foundation, Liverpool Archdiocese Maria STOCKTON, St Joseph`s Foundation, Penketh, Liverpool Archdiocese, Margaret KEENAN, St Clare`s Foundation, Liverpool Archdiocese Pat STEPHENS, St George`s Foundation, Maghull, Liverpool Archdiocese Anne CALLAN, St George`s Foundation, Maghull,Liverpool Archdiocese Margaret MEANEY, Blessed Sacrament Foundation, Liverpool Archdiocese Olive CORFIELD, Blessed Sacrament Foundation, Liverpool Archdiocese Pat MULLEN, St Anne’s Foundation, Rock Ferry, Shrewsbury Diocese Marie STORMONT, St Anne’s Foundation, Rock Ferry, Shrewsbury Diocese Congratulations to All BIRMINGHAM Combined AGM and Annual Mass 2017 was Birmingham Diocese`s combined AGM and Annual Mass held on Tuesday March 28th. The AGM took place in the Angus Hotel where we then had lunch following the Mass at St Chad`s Cathedral. At the end of Mass two special presentations were made. Father Burke was given a spiritual bouquet in recognition of the many years he has served as our spiritual advisor. Win Brookstone received a certificate on behalf of the St John Fisher Foundation to celebrate its 60th anniversary. Win is one of the original members. Our guest speaker was Canon Gerry Breen from St Chad`s Cathedral. But things didn`t quite go as planned. He had to go to a last minute important meeting straight after the meal so he gave us a very short but powerful message on the important role of mothers before we ate. There was a flurry of certificate giving for 40 and 25 years membership to close the day. It was a shame that not more members came! Anyone in the Birmingham diocese reading this who didn`t attend please consider coming next year. If you think AGMs are just too painful to sit through I can assure you ours have become a lot shorter. And we must still pray for a new President. No-one had come forward so Angela Foster gallantly agreed to remain in post for the time being, though with a reduced level of activity. By the time you read this may our prayers have been answered. Susan Martin, Media Officer Easter celebration at St Peters St Peter`s Bloxwich Foundation Birmingham Archdiocese had a party just before Easter to celebrate its secretary Betty Doughty receiving a papal blessing and other members UCM certificates. Betty worked for many years at St Peters RC Primary School as a lunchtime playground supervisor and classroom assistant. After retirement she continued to go into school to hear pupils read. Within the church she is a stalwart of the choir, a Eucharistic minister and a volunteer at Bloxwich Life Shop. She has spent hours knitting Easter chicks for the Wolverhampton Section UCM, the proceeds from which go to a charity each year. The Blessing was presented to her by our parish priest Father Robert Murphy who is sadly about leave the parish. He also presented a bouquet of flowers to Sheila Lyons with her 40 years UCM certificate Susan Martin, Media Officer New members welcomed on Mothering Sunday Mothering Sunday was a very special day for the members of St. Francis Xavier and the English Martyrs foundation in Oldbury. A number of new members were welcomed and enrolled on Saturday 25th/Sunday 26th March and the following Sunday morning 2nd April. One more member Vera Ihionu, will be enrolled shortly and new member, Monica Hurst was also received into the Church at the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday. Many congratulations to our lovely new members. Rufina Akakem, Georgina Eugene, Carol Cullen, front right Monica Hurst, along with Parish Priest Fr. Joseph and other foundation members. Susan Martin Media Officer St Ambrose raise £600 The St Ambrose Foundation Kidderminster has recently raised £600 for SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy). The charity was chosen as a great nephew of one of the members had recently died from the condition at only a few weeks old. The money was raised through cake sales, afternoon tea event, coffee mornings/evenings, cheese and wine evening, with raffles and bring and buy. In fact what we in the UCM do well, and particularly the wonderful Kiddie ladies. Mary Bouillon a fundraiser for the charity came and gave them a talk and was presented with a cheque. Susan Martin, Media Officer CLIFTON Amazon wish-list For Easter, my husband surprised me with a creative journaling Bible which I had put into my Amazon wish-list months ago. I thought I would share the idea in case other UCM members are interested. It is a Bible with illustrated scriptures on some pages and blank margins on others for note making or to decorate however you wish. The one I have is called Inspire and retails for around £20 online. The photo shows my illustration of Psalm 36.6-7 “Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the ocean depths. You care for people and animals alike, O Lord. How precious is your unfailing love, O God! All humanity finds shelter in the shadow of your wings”. I have also seen free scripture colouring pages for adults online which might make a fun group activity to invite other Parishioners to and hopefully encourage new UCM members. Charlotte Toffolo, Sacred Heart Foundation St Josephs Foundation visited Portishead Marina St Josephs Foundation visited Portishead Marina on 9th April for a tour of the harbourmasters control room. They were shown the workings of the lock gates. Given the tidal range of the Severn Estuary the lock is vital for the Marina to operate. Monica Ovel, Media Officer Betty Martin and Mary Boullin

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The Catholic Mother Summer 2017 Page 5 LEEDS Admiral Nurses are Admirable If I said “hands up all those who haven’t heard of admiral nurses” I suspect there may be quite a lot of hands showing. If I said “hands up all those who haven’t heard of dementia” I don’t think there would be any hands in the air. Admiral Nurses are nurses who care for people suffering with Dementia and their families coping with this cruel disease. St. Ignatius U.C.M. invited Volunteer Fundraiser Mrs Sheila Wainwright to come to talk about the wonderful work these nurses do. She started her talk by recounting her own experience of looking after her own husband when he started with dementia and very harrowing it was. At that time there was no Admiral Nurses in the area and, for a long time, she had no support from anyone. Near the end of her husband’s life an Admiral Nurse was appointed for her area and the improvement it made to their lives was so enormous that, after his death, she decided to try and raise, not only funds but awareness of the wonderful work they do. We were so impressed with what Sheila had to say that we are determined to have a fund raising “Do” for them later this year. Pam Watkins President St. Ignatius Ossett St Ignatius UCM have gone to the dogs!! On a whim the committee of St. Ignatius U.C.M. decided to organise a trip to Kinsley Dog track. This proved to be a more popular idea than we expected so we hired a 33 seater coach and collected 33 likeminded people to fill it. The evening was a great success with some people coming home a bit richer but most of us a bit poorer. The sums involved were very small but the excitement was large! Included in the ticket price was a hot buffet meal which was very good. For people who do not have a gambling addiction, this was a fun evening which we were asked to organise again but not just yet!! Pam Watkins St Ignatius Ossett Spring Event at English Martyrs Wakefield The Daughters of members of the UCM Rosemary Williamson and Jennie Ineson organised a spring event in the parish hall at English Martyrs Wakefield. The event was in aid of the parish Lourdes fund. Items on sale included Easter goodies, homemade crafts and garden items. Vanessa Hunter Leeds AGM We were joined by representatives of the CWL and the Mothers Union at our AGM held at St Annes Cathedral on 11th March Bishop Marcus Stock celebrated Benediction before the meeting. Diocesan President Pat Atha welcomed our clergy, guests and members. The reports were read and agreed. Our guest speaker this year was Mrs Rowan Morton-Gledhill who is press secretary for Bishop Marcus and also communications officer for Leeds Diocese. Rowan gave a very entertaining talk and as she worked for the BBC in the religious department for 22 years, we gained an insight into her work there. The meeting ended with tea served by our mothers before we made our way home. Eileen Goodwin Media officer EAST ANGLIA East Anglia children’s hospice cheque presentation A cheque was presented to Emma Taylor from E.A.C.H. (East Anglia children’s hospice) for £758 by Marguerite Wayling, Janet Harlow and Janet Smith from Costessey Foundation Beryl Stock, Media Officer NATIONAL HOLIDAY & REST HOMES Did you know? That the Union of Catholic Mothers have a scheme to help members who have been unwell or could do with a break after an operation? Is there someone within your foundation who might be in need of some respite or just a break? If so Please contact your Diocesan Welfare Officer or Diocesan President who can give you the forms to apply, or ring me for a chat on 01395 274108 - hopefully I will be able to help. This is your chance to help someone within your Foundation or Parish. Lorraine Richards National Holiday & Rest Home Service Co-ordinator Betty Martin and Mary Boullin

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Page 6 Summer 2017 The Catholic Mother LIVERPOOL Mary`s Meals The subject of the first UCM Study Day of 2017 organised by Vice-President Theresa Morris, was on the work of the charity Mary`s Meals. We learned that it was founded in a garden shed outside Oban in Scotland. It aims to provide chronically hungry children with one meal every school day. This encourages the education that can lift them out of poverty in later life. The food is sourced locally and cooked by local women. Mary`s Meals operates in 12 countries across 4 continents, serving 1300 schools. All 71 members who attended went away inspired to help with the charity`s latest effort, called "The Backpack Project". The idea is that we provide backpacks containing notepads, pens, pencils, sharpeners, erasers etc. so that children can have things of their very own and be able to carry them to school. Many Liverpool Foundations already support this charity and now many more will be joining in and providing hundreds more bags. Madeleine McDonald, Media Officer Liverpool Archdiocese Annual Civic Mass was held in Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral The Annual Civic Mass was held in Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral on the 26th February 2017, celebrated by Archbishop Malcolm McMahon and attended by the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Roz Gladden and her daughter Michelle, the Lady Mayoress. There were also many civic dignitaries including Mayors from surrounding Boroughs, and the Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside. Liverpool’s Diocesan President, Maria Bruns and members of the UCM Committee attended and were honoured to be asked to present the gifts in the Offertory procession. It was a very special occasion with official regalia, robes and wigs on display. The entrance procession was led by the mace-bearer with the civic symbols which were laid in front of the altar. Archbishop McMahon said it was a wonderful demonstration of faith communities uniting with the civic communities from across the Merseyside region. Madeleine McDonald, Media Officer Liverpool Archdiocese 50 Years Service to UCM Mrs Rita Preston of All Saints Parish received her Certificate for 50 Years Service to UCM She is photographed with Cath Pendleton, Secretary of the Parish and newly-enrolled member, Nina Deus. Madeleine McDonald, Media Officer Liverpool Archdiocese Liverpool AGM The Liverpool AGM was attended by 60 members. After reports of many and varied activities undertaken in 2016 we held an election for a new Archdiocesan Treasurer, who is to be Sue Bickerstaff from St Richard`s, Skelmersdale. Retiring Treasurer Margaret Kerbey was presented with a gift and many thanks for her hard work over the past 3 years. Our Spiritual Adviser Fr. David Potter celebrated Mass at the conclusion of the meeting. His homily struck a chord with us all - I quote "There are many things which we can never earn, or pay for, or create for ourselves; life itself, health, happiness, being loved. There are also people who are beyond price, a good father, a good mother, a good friend who stands by you in bad times, a faithful spouse, a helpful neighbour or colleague. All our lives we depend on help freely given, help we have no right to demand, the saving help of God above all. And that help comes to us through the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus. It`s the gift of He who burst through the tomb and asks us to follow Him to light and life". Many thanks to Fr David for those thoughts. Madeleine McDonald, Media Officer Liverpool Archdiocese 6 new members enrolled at Our Lady and St Gregory’s At a bi-monthly Mass at Our Lady and St Gregory’s, 6 new members were enrolled:- Nancy Rencontre, Brenda Ball, Mary Whalley, Mary Riley (St Richard’s, Skelmersdale); Frances McGeogh (Blessed Sacrament) and Mary Harrop (also Blessed Sacrament) who renewed her UCM Promise. Madeleine McDonald, Media Officer Liverpool Archdiocese NOTTINGHAM Flower Arranging On April 5th, Holy Spirit Foundation Bridgford enjoyed an evening of Flower Arranging. This was led by one of our own members, Liz Wheat, who not only organizes the flowers at Holy Spirit but is also on the flower rota at St. Barnabas Cathedral. This was a fun evening and most of us were surprised by what we were capable of doing!! Kathy Gelling, Media Officer Nottingham 40 years of fundraising for CAFOD A women`s group in West Bridgford held a cake sale and Fairtrade stall, marking 40 years of fundraising for CAFOD. The group, most commonly known as “The Friday People” first came about when six ladies from the parish of Holy Spirit decided to give something up every Friday and send the money they saved in an envelope to CAFOD, an international aid agency that works to alleviate poverty and suffering in developing countries. One of the ladies sayings: “small drops make a big puddle”, still resonates with the fifteen strong group today who carry on the tradition by holding fundraising events throughout the year. Parishioner and Grandmother Mary Crosby, who joined the group in 1983, worked under the six founders before becoming group secretary and CAFOD parish contact in 1995. She said: “Over the 25 years that I have been Treasurer, we have tried many different fundraising activities to help keep the group going. As we are an ageing group of women we find cake sales and raffles the easiest to do for maximum return. Not only that, but we also hold a Traidcraft stall alongside the sales which individually brings in over £1,000 a year for the charity”. The group won`t stop there however as during Advent they hold their annual “Candles of Love” event. Mary continues: “We sell paper candles for £1 on which intentions can be written before they are placed on a Christmas Tree. We then have a special Mass before Christmas where these are placed around the altar and the intentions prayed for. The children particularly enjoy taking part and it is a great way to keep our group active around Christmas. CAFOD representative for Nottingham, Maggie Mairura, said: “I would like to offer my sincerest thanks and congratulations to the women`s group for their incredible 40 years of fundraising. Their foundations and ethos resonate greatly with CAFOD and I do hope the group will continue fundraising for many years to come”. Mary is in the centre of the photo Kathy Gelling, Media Officer, Nottingham Diocese MIDDLESBROUGH Presentation at annual dinner At the annual dinner, Kath Stubbs, retiring President of St Aelred`s Foundation, York, was presented with a gift token, Fr. Bill Serplus, the Diocesan chaplain, also enjoyed the occasion. Kathy Gelling Media Officer Nottingham

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The Catholic Mother Summer 2017 Page 7 PORTSMOUTH Study Day, St Colman’s Church hall in Cosham. Cathy Riley stepped in as Study Day officer, and with the help of the rest of the Diocesan Committee, the day was organised like a military operation. The speaker was Chris Lubbe, one time body guard to Nelson Mandela. The day did not start well when Cathy received a phone call from Mr Lubbe at 9am to say that he was fog bound in Isle Of Man, where he had been a speaker at a dinner for bankers the night before, (and it is worth mentioning had raised over a million pounds for a local hospice) and there were no flights out. Cathy kept this information to herself, while sending up a little prayer that the fog would lift soon. The afternoon began with a Mass at 12 pm, concelebrated by parish priest Father Joe McInerney and our spiritual advisor Father Joe Gruszkiewicz . This was followed by a lunch, there was a splendid variety of soups, some of which were made by St Colman’s members and some by committee members. But at 2 pm, the time when the speaker was supposed to arrive, Cathy informed us that he had just landed at Gatwick and would be with us as soon as he could; an estimate of one and a half hours. The afternoon was rearranged and we had our tea and biscuits while we waited and were treated to some singing and a sing song from John Burch, our honorary member A few people had to leave early but those who waited gave a huge cheer as Chris Lubbe walked in at 3.45 pm and Cathy breathed a huge sigh of relief. He was well worth waiting for. He was an inspiring speaker who brought tears to the eyes of those listening when he told us of his experiences living under apartheid in South Africa. His first experience was when he was eight years old and for the first time, his mother took him on a bus to Durban. But she became ill, because of her diabetes. The driver could not stop the bus in a white area and they had to wait until they arrived on the edge of the city where the driver helped his mother off the bus and sat her on a seat. But, this seat was labelled ‘Whites only’ and when the little boy asked two policemen to help his mother they threw her onto the ground, knocking her unconscious with blood pouring from a gash on her head. The little boy sat sobbing by his mother, thinking she was dead. It was another three hours before help came and she was taken to hospital. It was thought that she would not survive her ordeal and her family were called to her bedside. Fortunately she did come out of hospital after three months but the little Forgiveness The Key to Freedom boy was left scarred and determined to fight back. When Chris Lubbe first met Nelson Mandela, he was asked, ‘How tall are you?’ ‘ 6ft 3 ins’ was his reply and when asked ‘What size shoes do you take?’, he replied ‘Size 14’, to which Mandela responded. ‘I want you as my bodyguard’ And so for eight years Chris Lubbe served Mandela and was inspired by him. “ As I walked out the door towards the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew If I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in prison.” Nelson Mandela Chris, himself spent time in prison as a young man because of his peaceful demonstrations against apartheid and the stories he told us were horrifying. But it was, he said, when he was forced to hold a gun to his head and pull the trigger that he heard the voice of God. The gun didn’t fire and at that moment a prison riot broke out and he was taken back to his cell. And that, he told us, was when his Christian beliefs began. The theme of his talk was forgiveness and he described how when Mandela became President of South Africa, he gathered his aides around him and told them they had to work with the white members of government. And in walked the prison officer who had water boarded Chris Lubbe and made him hold the gun to his head. Chris neither wanted to, nor could he forgive him at that point. But Mandela told them they must forgive. He told them they would become poisoned by their hate. It took Chris Lubbe five years before he could find forgiveness, and unbelievably, he is now best friends with the prison guard and Godfather to his son. The afternoon did not go without another hitch. That gremlin who always makes his appearance when technology is involved made himself (I am assuming he is male) known when the laptop and the screen lost their connection. But the situation was saved by a teenager in the audience. Isn’t it always the youth of today who teach us adults how to use computers, mobile phones etc. I know a lot of U.C.M. members depend on their grandchildren to show them how to use Facebook and twitter. I have described already how Chris was chosen as a bodyguard because of his size but slightly flustered by the breakdown of the technology, he was rescued by a tiny seventeen year old , Niamh who jumped up from her seat, pressed a few keys, reinserted a couple of plugs and ‘hey presto’ the presentation was resumed. It was rather appropriate that one of Chris Lubbe’s mandates is: I believe that our children are the future. I would urge anyone reading this article in ‘Catholic Mother’ to google Chris Lubbe and learn more about this great and inspirational man. It was a day that we in Portsmouth will always remember. Elizabeth Christian, Portsmouth Diocese Media Officer Mr and Mrs Do you watch Mr. and Mrs. On the ITV in which couples have to answer questions to find out how much they know about each other? One couple on recently were Matt Le Tissier and his lovely wife. For many who live here in the south, Matt is a one-time football hero, who in his heyday played for Southampton. The couple won the contest, the prize of £30,000 went to their favourite charity. I was so thrilled when they chose Naomi House and Jack’s Place near Winchester, a hospice for terminally ill children and teenagers. It is a favourite charity among Members at St. Colman’s U.C.M. and we send a cheque every month. But what a boost this sum was going to be: so much so that a spokesmen from the hospice thanked Matt and his wife publicly on southern news a few days later. Elizabeth Christian, Portsmouth Diocese Media Officer Ascot Foundation attempt The Three Peaks Challenge Liz McPhee, from Ascot foundation, along with 3 fellow members from the St. Francis parish, set themselves the task of attempting the “3 Peaks Challenge” in celebration of reaching their 40th birthdays! The challenge is to climb to the summit of Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 24 hours! They experienced everything from a snow storm to a heat wave, pitch black and brilliant sunshine and were successful in completing the climbs in just over the 24 hours. Originally they had not intended to fund raise, however friends and family, not wanting their efforts to go unrewarded, collected £2000, which was then donated to the Ascot foundation for their new church window. Elizabeth Christian, Portsmouth Diocese Media Officer Very significant “0” celebrations The Ascot foundation has had some very significant “0” celebrations in recent years. The foundation celebrated its’ 60th anniversary, several members celebrated “0” birthdays, all ages from 40 to 90, and one member and her husband are celebrating their diamond wedding anniversary this year. We also celebrated the Queen’s 90th birthday and having sent her our good wishes, along with some photos of the party, were very pleased to receive a letter from Buckingham Palace thanking us for our good wishes. On a more serious note we took part in the “Every Man Remembered” project and spent one evening decorating crosses for a Garden of Remembrance outside the church, to which fellow parishioners were encouraged to place their own crosses in memory of their loved ones Susan Meese Diocesan President Portsmouth Walk Of Witness Lenten Lunch St. Colmans Church in Cosham, through Churches United, were asked to host the Lenten lunch on Good Friday, after the Walk of Witness. Naturally the UCM stepped up to the plate. The day was run like a military operation with five homemade soups prepared by our members. I allocated jobs to my team so that everyone knew exactly what they were doing on the day. We served 80 people with soup, bread and cheese and received nothing but praise for our tasty servings and a couple of other churches said that we had ‘set the bar high’ and would be a hard act to follow. There was time for light hearted banter in the kitchen and the hall and our honorary male UCM member, John Burch, ran the kitchen like clockwork, a job he loves doing even though he is not even a member of our Church. Donations in the region of £100 were collected for Christian Aid and even though there were murmurs of “there is too much bread”, we managed to sell it all at a reduced price. Our next project is the Christian Aid Big Breakfast in May, after Mass. I can smell those bacon rolls already! Pauline Kaznowski, President of St Colman`s Foundation Let us not ‘squander’ our gifts ‘on ourselves’ Archbishop Bernard Longley’s Chrism Mass homily draws inspiration from the words of Blessed John Henry Newman: Let us not ‘squander’ our gifts ‘on ourselves’ and ‘our own reputation’, but let us use them for the ‘good of His Church’ At the Chrism Mass on Wednesday 12 April which saw the gathering of the archdiocese; bishops, priests, deacons and lay faithful and saw Archbishop Bernard Longley blessing the holy oils, and priests and deacons renewing their promises to serve God and his people, the Archbishop invited those gathered to draw `inspiration and courage` from the words of Blessed John Henry Newman: ‘Let us pray for each other, as well as for ourselves, that the gifts He has given us may not be squandered on ourselves, and used for our own gratification or our own reputation, but for His glory and for the good of His Church.’ The Archbishop spoke of the importance of the cross: ‘The cross lies at the centre of everything we believe as priests and it gives meaning to everything we teach.’ He said that: ‘Christ has always seen our capacity to shoulder his cross for the sake of others, lifting their burdens and lightening their hearts.’ Even though, ‘we may not recognise this fully or clearly within ourselves.’ He emphasised how it is important for all to come together for the Chrism Mass because ‘it is not good for us as priests to be isolated – it jars against the nature of our calling.’ Adding that the Chrism Mass is a time when, ‘we renew and refresh our relationship with the Lord as his priests in the midst of the Church – and where we also re-commit ourselves to take care of our brothers in the priesthood.’ The Archbishop prayed that friendships amongst priests ‘may be a source of encouragement and inspiration’ and called for ‘understanding and acceptance (of) our brother priests who may be struggling with their health, with physical or mental frailty, with discouragement or disappointment.’ He also spoke of his own need for prayers ‘in order to be faithful to (his) ministry.’ Archbishop Bernard Longley thanks women at Annual Men’s Mass Archbishop Bernard Longley thanked women for their roles ‘in Christian leadership (in) schools and parishes, for the irreplaceable witness of Religious Sisters in the life of the Church’ and for women in our families, at the annual Easter Men’s Mass at St Chad’s Cathedral in Birmingham on Monday. The Archbishop said that men ‘need women of faith’. He said that women are a source of encouragement to men by ‘their example’ and ‘support’ in prayer. He highlighted how it was the women who showed ‘strength’ and ‘steadfastness’ after the moment of Jesus’ arrest. ‘Women help us appreciate our identity as Christian men, at home, at work and in the life of the Church,’ he added. ‘Their achievements, their strengths and their witness of faith are not a threat but an inspiration to us, as we strive to be more faithful in our own witness to the risen Lord.’ He also highlighted how ‘Pope Francis asks us to look into the faces of these women and to recognise how the Lord wants us to respond.’ The Archbishop of Birmingham was the principal celebrant and preacher at the Men’s Mass, promoted and organised by the Catholic Men’s Society. The Mass has taken place each year since 1919. Similar Masses were celebrated by Bishop William Kenney in Coventry and by Bishop David McGough in Stoke on Trent. Archbishop Bernard Longley

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Page 8 Summer 2017 The Catholic Mother Dates for your Dairy 1st July NBCW AGM, Romero House, London 3-4 July Walsingham Pilgrimage 14th June and 2nd September National Committee Meetings at Women at The Well, London 7th October Extraordinary General Meeting, St Chad`s Cathedral, Birmingham 20th - 22nd November National Committee Meeting, The Hayes Swanwick NORTHAMPTON Fundraising evening for the local Hospice A fundraising evening for the local Hospice The Keech in Luton raised an amazing £900 on Friday 24th February. The Kings of Herts Chorus (Barber shop) entertained as well as songs from parishioners Michelle Bull , Bernadette Freed and their guitarist Dave. Refreshments and a sell-out raffle all added to a great night of music and song. Lots of hard work and planning from the U.C.M but all worth it for such a deserving cause the local hospice. Jenny Hyde, Northampton Media Officer PLYMOUTH Ford Park Cemetery We took a trip to Ford Park Cemetery, where we visited the graves of Sister Christina, who was our Spiritual Adviser and “nanny” to our children during meetings in the 1980s, also, Joan Howell, who was secretary and president for many years. Our second visit was to Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, where the ruins of a deer feeding station had been excavated. This was followed by lunch at The Stables. Vivienne Oxley Secretary (Plymouth Cathedral Foundation) ‘Sanctifying the Spirit’ In February this year, Julia Beacroft – author and editor – came along to one of our regular Thursday afternoon UCM meetings at Holy Ghost Church, Exmouth, as our guest Speaker. Her talk, which lasted approximately forty-five minutes and was entitled ‘Spirituality and Evangelisation – What does it mean for us?’ was both engaging and thought- provoking. Julia, who described herself as catechist, Christian spirituality author, workshop leader and editor of CathCom Reach – a newspaper aimed at the parents of Catholic primary school children – took us on a journey of discovery as to how our own spirituality in the Lord can be discovered and how this, along with our God-given gifts and talents, can help us to evangelise, an initiative that is close to the heart of many Catholic clergy at this present time. Furthermore, Julia explained that an enquiring mind, a love of the Lord and desire for a deeper intimacy with him, will attract you to her new book: ‘Sanctifying the Spirit’, as well as being provided with a personal guide to catechesis and the new evangelisation. “You will discover”, she said, “How our actions, speech and behaviour can ultimately affect ourselves and our relationships with God and others.” The Exmouth UCM Group are hoping to use Julia’s book for their Lenten spirituality reflections and readings. In Sanctifying the Spirit she takes everyday situations and finds God at the heart of them whether they are happy or sad, funny or fraught from the beginning of life to its closure. She writes in a straightforward style engaging the reader as if talking to them face-to-face. Julia explores how each one of us can have an impact, whether we think we can or not. She looks at the complete picture of Catholic teaching and how we all need to build our relationship with God but recognises that it is in our day to day experience where the real evangelisation can take place and that we can become the hands of Christ in the unlikeliest of places and situations. By using her own experiences Julia invites the reader to journey with her to find and experience the effect of God in our lives. Married to Patrick with four children including twins, Julia is a convert to the Catholic faith and for some time now she has been writing short pieces reflecting on the major feast days of the year and the Catholic Voice has published many of these reflections over recent months. Irene Walker Plymouth Diocesan Media Officer Exmouth Foundation AGM We held our AGM on Thursday 16th March at Holy Ghost Church, starting with Mass at 2pm celebrated by Father Robin Ellis. This was very well attended and we had the pleasure of enrolling three new members, bringing our current membership to 33. This was also an opportunity for us to renew our own commitment to the Union of Catholic Mothers but it was also tinged with sadness as we remembered in our prayers members who have died. At our meeting the current officers agreed to continue for the coming year and we thanked Father Robin for his continued support and presence in our group. We also looked back at the many and varied meetings we have had during the past year and the love and friendship shared by all. Irene Walker Media Officer Bradford Faith Trail Our first visit was to the Catholic church of St. Peters. It was the only one where there was a service going on attended by the congregation. The Mass was being said by a young black priest and everyone went up for the Holy Communion or a blessing. After Mass they said the prayer to St. Michael and a decade of the rosary. I must admit that I smiled to myself when I wondered if they were going to say all five decades. Our group of 50 York U3A members and 10 police recruits from Bradford had mostly lined the back of the church, and then after Mass we were supplied with coffee and biscuits and a talk about the church. A little way down the Leeds road is the Abu Bakar Mosque, but the Imam told us, not Mosque but masjid. He showed us around the men’s prayer room. This was an oblong room with the carpet divided into prayer mats. Half way along one wall was an alcove. When everyone faced this, they were facing Mecca, and the alcove was made to echo the prayers in Arabic spoken by the Imam. Now, the prayers can reach 3 and a half-mile radius using radio receives. There are 5 compulsory prayers with the time depending on the sunrise, but there is a 2 hour leeway to help working people. The prayers are related to the women’s prayer room. We were also shown the two tiled washing areas. Men and women must wash their face, hands and feet before prayer. We were told about the difference between Sunni and Shia Muslims. There was a split when the Shia wanted a relative of Muhammed Ali to be the leader, whereas the Sunni thought he should be chosen on merit. The next stop was at the Hindu temple Shree Lakshmi Narayan. The prayer room was ablaze with colour and flashing lights. The statues of the gods were placed along one wall starting with Ganesh and having the main gods Sri Vishnu and Lakshmi in the centre. Lots of fruit was placed in front of the gods and we were all given a piece of fruit. The Hindus believe in the re-incarnation where you return after your judgment as some other creature. Next on the trail was the Sikh temple of Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara. The Sikh religion was stared in the Punjab. The first Guru Nanak was born in 1469. He rejected the caste system and idols of the Hindus. The tenth and last guru died in 1708 and the writing of the ten gurus are found in the holy book called the Granth. They believe that God has no human form so they worship the Holy Book. We were shown a prayer room where 5 Sikhs were taking it in turn to read the Holy Book. It is read without stopping and should be completed within 48 hours. The Sikh have three aims: 1. To remember the name of God 2. To work hard and honestly 3. To help the needy and any with disability These aims result in there being no Sikh beggars and an open-door policy offering meals to anyone in need. This is why the Golden Temple in Amritsar has four doors- to welcome everyone. They don’t aim to convert anyone because all are free to do what they choose. All Sikh give 10% of their earnings to the committee. We had a meal there in a large canteen. It was Chapatti with vegetable curry, yogurt and fruit and ice-cream. The drink was water. The Sikhs do not eat meat, fish or eggs and also never cut their hair. They were planning to have a huge celebration on the 16th April with a procession including 6 Sikh temples in Bradford. This lively community was so different from our last stop at the Jewish synagogue. We were told that many had married out of the faith or moved to London. We travelled by coach after lunch to the synagogue but the usual trail finished at the Anglican Bradford Cathedral. The ten police cadets who accompanied us were learning about local people among whom they will work and we, like them, learned a great deal. Hilda Carney Media Officer Middlesbrough Diocese

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The Catholic Mother Summer 2017 Page 9 SALFORD Caring Couple receive Papal Award Elaine Carroll, a member of St Hilda’s UCM, and her husband, John, have received the Bene Merenti Award from Pope Francis in recognition of their hard work and dedication in fostering and adopting children for over 40 years. Elaine and John were presented with their medals at a Celebration Mass at St Hilda’s, Tottington, by Father Chris McGrane on 23rd March. The ladies of St. Hilda’s UCM took part in the Liturgy, sang in the choir and arranged a special reception in the Church Hall after Mass. In over 40 years Elaine and John have adopted 3 children and fostered another 25 more, including many who arrived from challenging circumstances. Although now retired due to ill health after Elaine suffered a stroke in 2015, the couple are keen to encourage others to consider fostering. “The important thing is letting the child know you’re always there for them,” says John. “Don’t look at the problems, look at the end result. When that child comes to you and gives you a hug, that’s the result you’re after.” Pauline Roe, Treasurer St Hilda`s Rosary Rally It was a wonderful occasion. Each foundation brought flowers and processed with them to Our Lady’s statue and of course tea and cake afterwards in the cloisters. There were visitors from the Archdiocese of Liverpool, Leeds, UCM National officers and CWL and of course UCM members. Fr. John Coe led the service at Salford’s Rosary Rally. Margaret Postill, National Media Officer SHREWSBURY Willow wood Hospice St Peter`s and St Raphael`s Foundation, Stalybridge. 2016 our local Hospice, Willow Wood, was our chosen charity. We had coffee mornings, sale of birthday cards, Garden Party, Mistletoe and Wine concert and our members compiled a recipe book which was professionally printed and sold to boost the fundraising funds. We presented Matron, Karen Vallantine, with a cheque for £3,050 on Wednesday the 22nd February and also handed her another £50 from the sale of the last few recipe books. The ladies from left to right (looking at the photograph) are: Jean Plant, Eileen Bancroft, Jean Clarke, Marie Bardsley, Pat Fleming (Parish President), Karen Vallantine (Matron), Elizabeth Volcsey, Lorraine Vaughton, Eileen Smith (Parish Secretary) and Fliss Holland. Linda Morris, Media Officer Shrewsbury Mary receives Bene Merenti medal Congratulations to Mary Dearden from St. Anne’s, Rock Ferry foundation on receiving the Bene Merenti medal for her service and hard work with Missio. Mary was presented with her award at a wonderful Mass followed by a celebration on Shove Tuesday for family and friends. As a foundation we had a celebration with close to 40 members and guests attending. Mary was presented with a gift of a bird bath for her garden, from her friends in the UCM. Well deserved Mary. Linda Morris, Media Officer Shrewsbury … by Julia Beacroft SOME TIME AGO, in a previous article, I mentioned my involvement in church care or cleaning, at my local parish church for one morning per week. In fact my main task is vacuuming and I find it strangely soothing, relaxing and even spiritual, as it gives me a much needed opportunity for prayer and reflection. Yet the other week I was jolted out of my reverie by one of my co-volunteers. As she approached me, duster and polish in hand, I couldn’t help but notice that she was giggling. As I raised my eyebrows, she began to explain: “We’re not supposed to polish the actual seats of the pews,” she said, “For health and safety reasons. It makes them too slippery. But I was just thinking that perhaps it might not be such a bad idea after all.” “Really?” I queried, trying to work out where the conversation was going. “Yes!” she continued. “The parishioners can slip straight off their seats and onto their knees to pray, without having to make any effort at all!” PERSONAL It was hardly surprising that we both laughed at the silliness of the suggestion but I also made a mental note to repeat the joke to another friend later that day. Yet after this re- telling, I found myself seriously contemplating the ways in which we pray and the significance – if any – of these. Prayer is extremely personal to each one of us as it is at the heart of our own relationship with Jesus Christ. Yet in the main we are able to recognise when others are praying by their actions and body language. Sitting or kneeling, hands pressed together palm to palm, clasped or held out palms uppermost, are the classically recognised positions for prayer, neither simple nor straightforward. And in fact, these physical positions are so accepted as the norm, that I’ve even seen a few people become upset, when they’re unable to kneel to pray for medical reasons. HEARTS When we pray we use our minds and sometimes our lips but using our bodies in this way is also perfectly acceptable. Yet, of much greater import is the prayer which emanates from our hearts. God knows our innermost thoughts and desires anyway, regardless of what we choose to share with him in prayer. Yet prayer is truly vital to build and maintain a loving, lasting relationship with the Lord. Falling to our knees when we pray is a sign of reverence to the Lord – and rightly so – because he is Lord. Yet it is the reverence of our hearts and minds which we can gladly offer to God in our prayer life. In short, slipping to our knees to worship is good. Slipping into God in our hearts is sublime. Slipping into God

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Page 10 Summer 2017 The Catholic Mother SOUTHWARK 50 years of UCM Hazel Summer Southwark Diocesan President, Mary Burt, presented a certificate to Hazel Summers to celebrate fifty years as a member of UCM. Accompanying Mary were Diocesan Officers Gerry Grehan and Mary Piper. We thank Mary, Gerry and Mary for being with us on this happy occasion. Our congratulations to Hazel. May she enjoy many more years as an active and committed member of U.C.M. Tolworth Foundation. Picture shows Mary Burt (left) presenting certificate to Hazel Summers St Saviours & SS John the Baptist and John the Evangelist, Lewisham Jean Golder, Treasurer Great Friends Celia Henthorn & Olga Higgins, UCM Rainham – 2 of our lovely ladies receiving flowers to celebrate their 90th Birthdays. They are great friends and have been in UCM for many years. Both of them are very sociable, join in all of our Parish activities and are regulars at Sunday Mass. They must have seen so many changes in their life time. Olga who originates from Wales and Celia from Germany have both been settled in Rainham for a great many years. Jean Golder, Treasurer Lewisham Kathleen celebrates 60 years Kathleen FItzwaters receiving a certificate from our Diocesan President, Gerry Grehan celebrating 60 years as a member of the Union of Catholic Mothers. Over the years Kath has been a member of the UCM in a number of different foundations but she has been with us now in Rainham for many years. Kath has found it an excellent way of making friends when she has moved into a new Parish and is a very active member of our foundation. Jean Golder, Treasurer Lewisham I can walk 500 miles Father Doug returned, much lighter in weight, after his long walk of approximately 500 miles through the Pyrenees and across northern Spain to Santiago de Compostella. His daily walk was between 15 to 20 kilometres carrying very few provisions in his rucksack, mainly a change of clothing. The daily routine therefore involved changing into his second Manchester United kit and washing the first set. He was well known on the route as the priest from London with the distinctive football kit. He said it had been a privileged experience to share deeply in fellow pilgrims’ personal stories. He explained that Santiago de Compostella means “Saint Jacob (or St.James) under all the stars”. Fr. recommended the film named “The Way” starring Martin Sheen. He returned from Spain to undertake the Full Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius of Loyola. Ironically he had passed by not too far from Loyola in Spain but the limited availability of the course meant that he had to undertake it in St. Beuno’s in North Wales. It included a 30 day fully silent retreat under the direction of an experienced spiritual guide. Fr said that the experience was challenging but a once-in-a- lifetime privilege. Jean Golder, Treasurer Lewisham Bunty her 90th birthday Bunty Kane, our longest serving member celebrated her 90th birthday. Centre: Bunty Left to Right: Jean Golder, Eileen Doyle, Appolonia Emereonyekwe, Angela Huggins, Jackie Bowness, Shirley Douglas, Elizabeth Nwawudu, Edna Brown. St Saviours & SS John the Baptist and John the Evangelist, Lewisham. Jean Golder Clifton Host National Study Day 2017 “Are you in a netball team?” and “Are you on a hen do?” were two of the comments passed by members of other groups staying at Swanwick as Clifton UCM members scurried around getting organised for UCM delegates to arrive. We were also asked directions to various rooms, help with the lift etc. Red sashes certainly make you stand out. Thanks to our President Pat’s meticulous planning we all knew our jobs and hopefully helped the Study Days to flow smoothly, so that all Delegates got the most from our wonderful speakers, and from the liturgies. We know many enjoyed the entertainment; thank you for all your kind remarks. I imagine the content of the Study Days, an in depth look at ‘Laudate Si’, how it affects our lives, relates to the bible and what we need to address now if we want our grandchildren and beyond to have all the wonderful world opportunities that we take for granted will be covered elsewhere in the Mother, but I would like to say thank you to the vice presidents for such a thought provoking few days. Monica Ovel. Clifton Kathleen Fitzwaters and Gerry Grehan

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The Catholic Mother Summer 2017 Page 11 Meeting of the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organisations (WUCWO) Region Europe – Women of WUCWO, for Honesty and Justice Madrid, march 17-20, 2017 DECLARATION We the women of the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organisations (WUCWO), region Europe, meeting in Madid from17- 20 March 2017, following one of the resolutions adopted at the General Assembly- held in Fatima in 2014- and alarmed by the increase in corruption, have reflected on this serious scourge. To corrupt is to pervert the nature of people, ideas or thing, for a personal interest or benefit. As Catholic women, we understand that this nature is that of children of God, with an equal, full and sacred dignity. We want to work with courage to eliminate corruption and its destructive effects. Corruption is a global problem, in its broadest sense, as it history covers the of humanity, undermines the dignity of future generations, affects all countries, the environment and the most common acts in the life of each person, since it can be present in the personal, ecclesial, political, economic and social sphere. Corruption causes inequality, injustice and violence, and it generates exclusion: especially the poorest suffer from it: material poor, spiritual poor and among these – women are the most affected. Corruption goes against the common good, because it selfishly only seeks the personal interest or benefit; it also weakens the evangelising mission of the church. In order to fight against corruption, we opted for the conversion of the heart, honesty, justice and the promotion of a democratic ethic. We propose families as the ethical driving force of our society. In them we can cultivate and learn to experience values such as honesty, responsibility, solidarity and effort. Before corruption, we chose to promote a human and integral ecology, uniting the defence of nature, our common home, with the protection and defence of human beings, both in their personal, spiritual and social dimension. We, the European women of WUCWO, want to commit ourselves to forming the consciences to fight against corruption at all levels: • By making clear and institutional choice for transparency, good practices and coherence in life. • By taking care, especially in our institutions, of our Christian identity. • By networking with other organisations which fight against corruption. • By investing efforts and means to generate ethical criteria in the hearts of the people, since an ethical regeneration is needed from education. • By promoting means for reporting cases of corruption at both personal and social level. • By sharing, valuing and highlighting, with hope, positive initiatives against this scourge of corruption, indifference, selfishness and lack of responsibility, we propose service, commitment and the love that comes from turning our face towards God and from the encounter with Christ and our brothers, especially those who suffer or are more vulnerable BEFORE CORRUPTION, IF THERE’S COMMITMENT THERE’S HOPE.. Apostleship of the Sea It’s hard to think of a more masculine environment than the maritime industry. So why did twenty-three-year-old Bryony Watson decided to become an Apostleship of the Sea (AoS) port chaplain? Bryony is the youngest member of AoS’ port chaplaincy team. She covers Immingham, Grimsby, and several ports on the Humber and Trent rivers. Before her appointment in February, she had been a volunteer ship visitor for four years, assisting parish contacts with the collection of shoeboxes, woolly hats and warm clothing. AoS is unique in being the only Catholic agency serving the maritime industry. July 9 is Sea Sunday, when the Church asks us to pray for seafarers and support the work of AoS, whose chaplains and ship visitors provide practical and pastoral help in ports around the coast of Britain. After graduating from university in 2015 with a degree in fine art, Bryony had considered a career in teaching. Through her ship visiting she had become passionate about helping seafarers, so when a vacancy for a port chaplain came up she felt this was what she wanted to do full-time. Most of us probably give little thought to seafarers. Yet it’s thanks to them that we have many of the goods we come to rely on. Around 95% of imports to the UK arrive by sea. That’s everything from coffee and cars to fridges and clothes. So when Bryony dons her hard hat and high-vis jacket and goes on board a ship how does she feel? “Working in a very masculine world was initially a daunting prospect, but I have always been treated with respect by the seafarers. “Also, we are seeing an upswing in the numbers of female seafarers, and they welcome the opportunity to have a chat with another woman-especially in situations where they are the only women on board the vessel. “Recently I met a female seafarer who said how exhausting it could be as the only woman on board- she felt that to be respected even half as much as her male colleagues she had to work twice as hard.” One of the things Bryony enjoys about her work is meeting seafarers from all over the world. Many of those who go to sea nowadays are from the Philippines, India, China and Russia. Much of what she does is practical, such as providing SIM cards or mobile phone top-up cards so seafarers can contact their families back home, or arranging transport to the local shops or sometimes to Mass. However, a key part of her role, she says is simply being present. Working at sea can be a lonely experience. Given the long contracts in the maritime industry, many seafarers go months without speaking to their family or anyone apart from fellow crew members. “The main thing I have learnt over the past four years as a ship visitor is the importance of really listening to someone; being there, being open, giving the time to allow them to talk. Also, never to under-estimate the power of a woolly hat and bars of chocolate!” Greg Watts 19.4.17

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Page 12 Summer 2017 The Catholic Mother A Busy Blessed Lady With the closing of the Holy Year of Mercy, I have great pleasure in looking back in awe at the opportunities which have come for me to seek reconciliation as I entered through some of the “Doors” which were dedicated to that purpose. My first occasion was at St. Joseph’s Gerrard’s Cross, and that was a really inspiring and spiritual event. I went to visit family in France and went through the Holy Doors both at Sacra Coeur and the Notra Dame in Paris. I have been given the pilgrimage booklet, so was happy to read the prayers and to receive the Holy Eucharist too. In March I was able to go to Mass at Westminster Cathedral, and again through the Doors of Mercy, and on Maundy Thursday was our own Northampton Cathedral. My brother was becoming increasingly unwell, so much of my intentions were concentrated on him, and our family. Another opportunity occurred at Walsingham with our UCM pilgrimage how blessed I have been with all these opportunities. My dear brother died on the 12th July; may he rest in peace. He had been an altar server in the same parish of St. George’s Sudbury Town for 73 years and in the choir for 70 years, what an extraordinary blessing and achievement. My final opportunity came because I had seen an article in the National Trust magazine and travel brochure about a four day visit to Rome. So I set off to London City Airport by train for an Alitalia fight. Pre-booked taxi was not there apparently, tried the announcement system but no response so after 3/4 hour took another one outside the airport to take me to my pre-booked B&B at local Carmelite Convent, ‘Casa Per Ferie Carmalitane” for 3 nights. I booked in to comfortable room with private facilities, visited the Chapel on the entrance floor where vespers was being said, then went for a walk towards Rome. I found a newsagent so bought some bus tickets and took a bus to the area of the Vatican City. The tourist information was closed but there was no list of times when it would be opened. I walked across St Peter’s square but entrance to St. Peter’s was closed and so access to Holy Door. I went in the direction of the buses and stopped for a pizza then onto 913 bus back to the convent. I was locket out! walked all around the complex but no entrance so was in flat despair. Suddenly a small door opened and a lady came out. The door closed before I could leap through. She showed a little white button! Hey presto a voice invited me in how lucky. I slept well. Breakfast was not served until 8:00am. Dashed off for bus and get to tourist office info at 8:50am. It will open at 9am. Paid for ticket for Monday to go to The Vatican, train to Castel Gondolfo has closed down so I shall have to come here another time! I got a good seat for Mass in St. Peter’s Square and was given a Mass booklet to use. It was a scorching hot day so sat near one of the big fountains so that its shadow would shelter me. By about 10.30 when Mass was to begin Pope Francis officiated, the choir was in full voice, the readings and the bidding prayers were in different languages. very helpful, and the big screens showed the officials who were leading the rosary and the other prayers before Mass. Although far away, I had an excellent view for the open air alter and could follow much of Pope Francis sermon. Received Holy Communion and began to make my way out of the square. The Pope was being presented with gifts and giving blessings to people which took about 3/4 hour and I stopped to watch some of that on the big screen. I was two people back from the barrier and suddenly the security guys began moving the barriers and getting people to move back, some could not find their companions so as a space occurred I took it. Minutes later ‘El Papa’ came past in his pope mobile and it slowed right down in front of me. He was only a car width from me smiling, waving, and blessing us all. What a privilege! He sped away so I strolled along to the main road and was able to order a hot panini and some juice. I went back to visit St Peter’s basilica and to go through the Holy door. There was only a small queue but very strict security. No one can go through the Door. I was so disappointed. As I stood on the inside and read the pilgrims prayers in a back ground of noisy chattering, cameras being flashed, and very little sign of reverence at the wonders of this holy place. I went in to say a some prayers and to see some of the beautiful statues, alters, floors, ceilings and curtains and was unable to find kneelers or seats at which to pray. Maybe Sunday is not a good day for this. There was to be an outdoor service of Rosary and Benediction at 5pm but no access to the seats in the square until 4.30pm. As it was 3pm I thought I would go back to the convent but could not find the bus stop. All the roads are one-way traffic so I walked for 2 hours to find my way I was hot and tired so stopped to eat and drink. Menu offer 10 euro for pasta and salad, coffee and water. Felt better for the rest and took the 913 bus towards the terminal , then saw one going the other way so got off and went to a stop to wait for another. Phew! what a day! The next day I went by bus to the stop for the Vatican, found a pharmacy open bought more sticking plasters for the many blisters after my 2 hour wandering yesterday. Found my way to the meeting point for my tour but was little early. Finished writing the last two postcards and sent them off, then walked around the entrance to the Vatican museums and a long wait before going through an imposing set of engraved glass doors to a waiting open air bus for our garden tour. We had mini ear plugs to listen to a proper guided explanation and the history of various beautiful buildings in the grounds. We heard about those who had formerly lived in them and who currently lives there, (including 2 refugee Syrian families and their children being cared for and educated as guests of the Vatican City). We saw the steam engines and heard how they are still used to transport goods to and from areas in and around Vatican City. We saw the many lovely fountains lakes and water works which were created by bringing water from the mountains via aqueducts both above and underground (to protect them from vandalism in earlier centuries) and we saw as some more formal plantings full of colour splendour. What a joyful hour. I felt that on such a short trip I should like to go to the museums and Sistine Chapel. I was rewarded fully for that decision as I enjoyed two and half hours in the wonderful museums, rejoicing in the tapestries with clever display of original cartoon, they worked from the back of design and the intricate stitching in row led to finished article. Considering they were created using candle light and natural light with wools spun from fleeces using natural dyes, the outcome being so extraordinary makes me wonder how soon the workers lost their eyesight. I loved the walls painted with maps of the world and the development over the centuries of more accurate details of the shorelines of Africa, Northern and Southern America, of the many Atlantic Islands and Northern States of Europe. Britannia changed shape dramatically from 1150 to 1600, when Ireland appeared all of a sudden. At last I entered the Sistine Chapel where ipads and smart phones were not allowed, but were in use by many people. What a shame that many were taking the photos and not looking at the beauty and extraordinary marvels themselves. I did manage to look really carefully at the ceiling by going to the dais then standing and looking carefully from left across to the right and appreciated all that extraordinary creativity. I was there for over 3/4 hour but was not hurried along by guards, I like going on my own as I can see what I find the most interesting/very selfish. Tina Pearce St Columba’s An Enormous Thank you On behalf of Hannah and myself, I would just like to say an enormous THANK YOU to all of you for the very warm welcome we received when we attended your conference at The Hayes Centre Swanwick. It was a real pleasure and a privilege for us to be invited to share with you, the story of Mary’s Meals & our mission. We were both overwhelmed by the wonderful generosity shown by you all with the collection at the end of our talk on Monday evening. The £512 donated will enable us to feed 37 children with a daily meal in school for a whole year! THANK YOU!! Thanks to the generous support of people like you, children who would otherwise be working or begging to survive are now in classrooms with full stomachs, delighted to be learning! Should any of you require any further resources or information about Mary’s Meals, or indeed, if you would like to arrange a speaker to visit your local group or parish, please do get in touch. Many thanks again for all your support! Please remember Mary’s Meals & our mission in your prayers. May God bless you all. Kind regards, Fran Lawson Fundraising Officer - Churches Mary’s Meals UK Units 10-13, Claremont Centre 39 Durham Street, Glasgow, G41 1BS, Scotland t: +44 (0)141 336 7094 e: fran.lawson@marysmeals.org Mary’s Meals Registered Charity: SC022140. Limited Company: SC265941 The Holy Door is the Northern entrance at St. Peter`s Basilica in the Vatican.

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The Catholic Mother Summer 2017 Page 13 NATIONAL PRESIDENT  Becomes one of the three trustees of The Union of Catholic Mothers; the other two trustees are the National Treasurer and National Secretary.  The three trustee officers work closely as a team regarding all matters relating to The U.C.M.  Chairs National Council & Annual General Meeting; Trustee meetings. Diocesan Officers Meeting, National Committee Meetings, Ad hoc meetings and the Walsingham Sub Committee.  Attends and leads the Annual Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham.  Attends and votes on behalf of UCM at the 4 yearly WUCWO Assembly.  Liaises with the National Vice Presidents regarding the National Study Days.  Needs to have a thorough knowledge of the Constitution of The UCM.  Needs to have an overview of the tasks and remit of all members of the National Committee.  Represents UCM on the Executive of the National Board of Catholic Women and at Board Meetings.  Liaises with other organisations as well as representing UCM at many other functions and meetings to which she is invited.  When invited visits each Diocese once during her term of office.  Writes a column for each edition of the Catholic Mother Newspaper.  Facebook Administrator.  The National President should be available to give advice at all times. NATIONAL SECRETARY  Becomes one of the three trustees of The Union of Catholic Mothers; the other two trustees are the National President and the National Treasurer.  The three trustee officers work closely as a team regarding all matters relating to The U.C.M.  Attends Trustee meetings, National Committee meetings, National Council and Annual General meeting, Diocesan Officers meeting, Ad Hoc meetings as and when required.  Needs to have a thorough knowledge of the Constitution of The UCM.  Needs to have an overview of the tasks and remit of all members of the National Committee.  Compiles the Agendas for all meetings and then compiles the Minutes. Complies the Annual Report and the National Officers reports.  Monitor emails and action if necessary.  Perform the secretarial duties associated with the role of National Secretary.  Facebook Administrator.  Attends the Annual Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham.  The National Secretary should be available to give advice at all times. VICE-PRESIDENTS  Represents the National President or other National Officers when the need arises. Attends National Committee meetings, National Council and Annual General meeting, Diocesan Officers meeting, Ad Hoc meetings as and when required.  The two Vice Presidents share the responsibility for the Mass kit and undertake the duties of Sacristan at National Council, Diocesan Officers Meeting and Committee Meetings.  Liaises with the Diocese responsible for preparing the Liturgy for National Council.  Plans and organises the National Study Conference in conjunction with the National Committee.  Attends meetings relating to Justice & Peace issues.  Attends meetings of the Catholic Union.  Attend the non-executive meetings of the National Board of Catholic Women. (NBCW)  Attends meetings of the National Council of Women (NCW)  Administers the work of the Daily Mass Scheme.  Monitors the Bishops Conference and Pro - Life websites.  Monitors the Friends Circle.  The Vice Presidents will from time to time, submit reports of meetings attended for insertion in the Catholic Mother.  Attendance at the Annual Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham is appreciated.  Compiles the Walsingham Petitions for the Annual Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham. Please ensure that both Archdiocesan/Diocesan Committees and Foundations have been consulted before submitting your form, then forward together with a copy of the candidate’s Curriculum Vitae to the National Secretary: by Saturday 15th July 2017 National Secretary: Mrs Irene Mitchell ucmnatsec@yahoo.co.uk The above positions are Elected Offices and voting for them will take place at the Extraordinary General Meeting in October 2017. UCM NATIONAL VACANCIES All nomination/recommendation must be seconded and sent together with a copy of the candidate’s CV by To the National Secretary: Mrs Irene Mitchell For more detailed information in relation to any of the advertised posts please contact the National Secretary ucmnatsec@yahoo.co.uk Housing Justice Homeless Sunday 2017 saw congregations in England, Scotland and Wales considered what more they can do to help. We know that at least 71 groups did something; whether through prayer, donations to local concerned groups, or teaching youngsters; through an act of worship focused on people who are homeless or by taking part in our symbolic action with ‘spare keys’. Housing justice spoke at eight separate events, and Bishop James Langstaff, the Bishop of Rochester, led a national service at the Methodist Central Hall in Westminster. There was more positive news from Westminster, however as MPs voted through the Homelessness Reduction Bill, securing cross-party support for new measures which include the following key provisions: A prevention duty: a new duty for local authority’s to act to prevent the homelessness of anyone who is eligible for assistance (e.g. ‘habitually resident’ in the UK) and threatened with homelessness within 56 days regardless of priority need status. A relief duty: a new duty for local authority’s to take steps to relieve the homelessness of anyone who is currently homeless, eligible for assistance and has a local connection to the area. A duty to co-operate: provisions to ensure that households are expected to take reasonable steps to resolve their own homelessness. Marcus jones MP, minister in charge of homelessness, had already allocated an additional £48 million pounds to help local authorities with new burdens this potential legislation will place on them. In the debate a further £13 million was promised. While any funding is to be welcomed, the way in which is to be split in the course of just 2 years, with government expecting the bill to be cost neutral in the third year of implementation, remains a worry. There is obviously more work still to be done as the bill proceeds to the House of Lords for debate. The second reading of the bill was on Friday, 24th February. From: Alex at CRISIS The House of Commons has just passed the homelessness reduction bill. Next stop the House of Lords. This landmark piece of legislation aims to transform the help that homeless people in England get from local councils. The debate in the commons today saw concern from MPs across the House about rising homelessness and a determination that improving the law should be a key part of the solution. The fact that the bill has got this far is thanks to huge effort by campaigners like you, homelessness charities and MPs of all parties who have recongised the importance of intervening early to prevent and solve homelessness. Credit is due to Bob Blackman, the conservative MP sponsoring the bill. But there is still more work to do. The Houses of Lords still must debate the bill. If the bill gets passed, we need to make sure that it is implemented as effectively as possible across the country. We can only end homelessness together. Please share this link www.crisis.org.uk/nooneturnedaway to ask your friends to join the campaign. Brigid Hegarty National Welfare Officer WALSINGHAM SUB COMMITTEE TREA SURER  Attends the Walsingham Sub Committee Meetings, National Council and the Annual General meeting, Diocesan Officers meeting, Ad Hoc meetings as and when required.  Work with the Walsingham Sub Committee regarding all aspects of the pilgrimage.  Deals with all financial aspects of the Walsingham Pilgrimage.  Prepares the Accounts each year and have them checked by a qualified Accountant before sending them to the National treasurer.  Attendance at the Annual Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham. WALSINGHAM SUB COMMITTEE MEMBER  Attends the Walsingham Sub Committee Meetings, Ad Hoc meetings as and when required.  Work with the Walsingham Sub Committee regarding all aspects of the pilgrimage.  Attendance at the Annual Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham – Monday and Tuesday.  The duties and tasks assigned to the Sub Committee member are undertaken during pilgrimage days. Please ensure that both Archdiocesan/Diocesan Committees and Foundations have been consulted before submitting your form, then forward together with a copy of the candidate’s Curriculum Vitae to the National Secretary: by Friday 1st September 2017 National Secretary: Mrs Irene Mitchell ucmnatsec@yahoo.co.uk For more detailed information in relation to any of the advertised posts please contact the National Secretary ucmnatsec@yahoo.co.uk

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Page 14 Summer 2017 The Catholic Mother Mary’s Meals Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow grew up in Argyll, Scotland. In 1983, a pilgrimage to the Marian shrine of Madjugorie in Bosnia- Herzegovina renewed his family’s Catholic faith and led Magnus’s parents to convert their guesthouse into a retreat centre or ‘family house of prayer. In 1992 Magnus and his brother Fergus were enjoying a pint in the local pub when they saw a TV news report of the Bosnian conflict. They felt moved to help those suffering After spending much of the night talking about ways to support the Bosnian relief effort, the brothers decided to organise a local appeal. Food, clothing, medicines and donations of money soon began to arrive at their home. The brothers took a week’s holiday from the fish farm where they worked, bought a second-hand Land Rover, and joined an aid convoy. They delivered the donated goods to Medjugorie in Bosnia- Herzegovina, a place of international pilgrimage. Believing their good deed was done, they returned home expecting to resume their jobs as fish farmers. But public donations had continued to flood in, filling their parents’ shed with goods. Two weeks later Magnus decided to give up his job and take a ‘gap year.’ He sold his small house so he could drive aid out to Bosnia- Herzegovina for as long as the public kept donating. The public did not stop and Magnus never returned to his job. It soon became necessary to set up a registered charity, Scottish International Relief (SIR). Over the next 10 years, SIR expanded. It began building homes for abandoned children in Rumania, helped returning refugees in Liberia by setting up mobile clinics, and continued to deliver material aid to Croatia and Bosnia-Hurzegovina as well as finding many additional projects. Magnus met a lady called Emma while SIR was providing famine relief in Malawi. She was dying of AIDS and lay on the floor of her hut surrounded by her six young children. Emma said all that was left for her was to pray that someone might care for them after her death. Magnus asked her eldest, Edward, What he hoped for in life. He replied simply: “ I want to have enough food to eat and to go to school one day.” Magnus was presented with a CNN Hero award by Hollywood actor Gerard Butler. He praised him for his work and said: “Every day Magnus lets children know that they matter, that someone thousands of miles away cares about them.” Alongside our feeding programmes, which were reaching half a million hungry children, our emergency relief work also continued. We joined forces with our long standing friends in Malawi and a South African charity –Gift of the Givers- to deliver as much emergency food aid as possible to help keep more than 40,000 starving people in Somalia, with school feeding having become the sole focus of its work, SIR officially changed its registered registered charity name to Mary’s Meals. We consist of, respect, and reach out to people of all faiths and of none. The number of children receiving Mary’s Meals continues to grow thankes to the generosity of our supporters . We are now feeding 1,230,171 of the world’s poorest children every day they attend school. Margaret Postill, National Media Officer 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 To advertise please c ontact Caroline Gonella at CathCom on 07931 836926 or 01440 730399 or email carolineg@cathcom.org Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow visiting a school in Malawi. Photographer Heathcliff O’Malley

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The Catholic Mother Summer 2017 Page 15 To advertise please contact Caroline Gonella at CathCom on 07931 836926 or 01440 730399 or email carolineg@ cathcom.org ARUNDEL AND BRIGHTON DIOCESE Jean Teresa EVANS, St Peter’s Foundation, Hove BIRMINGHAM ARCHDIOCESE Eileen REILLY, Oratory Foundation Gill PARDOE, St Ambrose Foundation Sheelagh BREENI, SS Joseph & Helen Foundation Sheila SKITT, St Ambrose Foundation Kidderminster CLIFTON DIOCESE Ann CORRIGAN, Foundation secretary and past Diocesan President, Clifton Cathedral Foundation Connie LOTT, St John’s Foundation, Bath Doreen CURTIS, Sutton Foundation Jean FLYNN, Cathedral Foundation Joan SMALL, Our Lady of Lourdes Foundation Maria GIANNETTA, Sutton Foundation Marie GRIFFITH, Sacred Heart Foundation Pat HALL, Our Lady of Lourdes Foundation Rosemary McDONOUGH, Our Lady of Lourdes Foundation LIVERPOOL ARCHDIOCESE Joan GOUGH, St Anne`s Foundation, Ormskirk Marjorie WALSH , Friends` Circle, St George`s Foundation, Maghull Wyn BRIDSON, Holy Name Foundation, former Archdiocesan Officer MIDDLESBOUGH DIOCESE Stella HODGSON, St Aelred’s Foundation, York NOTTINGHAM DIOCESE Margaret ALLEN, St Margaret Clitherow Foundation, Keyworth Mrs Celine Elizbeth PALMER, St Mary’s Foundation, Dunstable PLYMOUTH DIOCESE Christina CRONIN, Exmouth Foundation PORTSMOUTH DIOCESE Mary HOSKINS, St Boniface Foundation, Shirley, Portsmouth Diocese Maria JEFFERSON, Alton Foundation SALFORD DIOCESE Mary JAMES, Guardian Angels Foundation, Bury Pat TELFOR, St Joseph’s Foundation, Reddish JOAN MARSH, Guardian Angels Foundation, Bury SOUTHWARK ARCHDIOCESE Carmen GOODING, St Matthew`s Foundation, West Norwood Margaret McANDREW, St Matthew`s Foundation, West Norwood SHREWSBURY DIOCESE Kathleen CRAWFORD, Foundation treasurer, St Anne’s Foundation, Rock Ferry Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord Boarbank Hall Contact: Sr Ildikó 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 “She who accepts the common life possesses God” St Augustine A Warm Welcome to Everyone Prayer Community Hospitality Care of the poor and sick Lead Diocese – Archdiocese of Liverpool with Bishop Tom Williams I hope you have all enjoyed a happy, peaceful and Holy Easter, partaking in many of the wonderful Services that make up this very special and joyous season. Preparations are now well in hand for our 2017 pilgrimage - the theme this year is `Joy of the Annunciation` and the readings and hymns will reflect this joy. As you know, we are a number of beds short at the Pilgrim Bureau this year but we believe that everyone requiring a bed and lodgings has now been catered for and, please God, there will be no `homeless` members wandering in Walsingham on the 3rd and 4th July! We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Archdiocese of Liverpool for all their hard work, alongside the Walsingham Sub-committee, in bringing this to fruition. Again, you will see further changes happening in Walsingham but I am very pleased to be able to tell you that we have managed to get the Shrine`s agreement to providing an additional `refreshments point` which will be located in a marquee adjacent to the tea rooms, thus enabling everyone to get refreshments quicker. Stewards: My letter to all Diocesan Presidents/Secretaries was sent out at the beginning of March and I expect to receive their replies with offers of the requested stewards shortly. I would like to thank you all for volunteering to act as stewards on the day as this makes such a difference to the smooth running and success of our pilgrimage. At the time of writing this article we have received only 150 confirmed bookings - most of which are from Liverpool - but I am sure numbers will begin to grow when I remind you that this will be the last issue of The Catholic Mother containing the booking form prior to the July pilgrimage. As I stated in the last issue, we have to have over 500 members in attendance for an open air Mass so maybe we could think of how the Disciples spread the Good News of God`s love and we, in turn, could spread the good news of our wonderful organisation – The UCM – and promote the Walsingham pilgrimage, thus enabling us to have the open air Mass that has been synonymous with our pilgrimage for the last 71 years. Finally, the Walsingham Sub-committee look forward to welcoming you to our 2017 pilgrimage and we pray that you will all have a prayerful, peaceful and happy pilgrimage with lovely weather and most of all we wish you all a safe journey to Walsingham and a safe return home. God bless. Maureen, Angela, Elizabeth and Paddy Walsingham Sub-committee WALSINGHAM WHISPERS 2017 Pilgrimage – Theme `Joy of the Annunciation` SPONSOR A CHILD Your contribution can buy food, water, clothing, medicine, education and life skill training. £10 PER MONTH CAN CHANGE A CHILD`S LIFE NOW Contact Father John Perrotta, THE SONS OF DIVINE PROVIDENCE 25 Lower Teddington Road, Hampton Wick, KT1 4HB Tel: 0208 977 5130 Mob: 07921 125283 email: johnperrotta2082gmail.com A Sponsorship Scheme run by The Sons of Divine Providence and their Friends and Supporters for Poor Children in the Third World

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Page 16 Summer 2017 The Catholic Mother

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