The Official Newspaper to the Diocese of Lancaster Issue 295 + December 2017 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk FREE INSIDE: p10 “It’s Nativity Play time” p16 Rhodes – A beautiful jewel in God’s ocean Advent the season to develop inner Hope, Peace, Joy & Love Be Still Pray Be reconciled with God and neighbour & Waiting Preparing

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2 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + December 2017 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk Contact us The Catholic Voice of Lancaster is published on the last Sunday of the month previous to publication date. The Catholic Voice of Lancaster is published by its owners. The Trustees of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Lancaster, a registered charity, (No. 234331), and is wholly independent of and separate from any previous newspaper published by or on behalf of the diocese. EDITOR: Edwina Gillett 01253 736630 / 07969 967268 edwinagillett@hotmail.co.uk www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk ADVERTISING: Caroline Gonella / CathCom Ltd. 01440 730399 / 07931 836926 carolineg@cathcom.org www.cathcom.org DESIGN & LAYOUT: Rob Hotchkiss / Hot Creative 01253 730343 rob@hot-creative.co.uk www.hot-creative.co.uk PUBLISHED BY: CathCom Ltd. N2 Blois Meadow Business Centre, Blois Road, Steeple Bumpstead, Haverhill, Suffolk CB9 7BN 020 7112 6710 / www.cathcom.org Articles to: voicenews@hotmail.co.uk Letters to: voiceletters@hotmail.co.uk Postal Address: FAO Edwina Gillett 99 Commonside, Ansdell, Lytham St. Annes FY8 4DJ Please send articles for publication on CD or by email, supplying any photos separate to the text (i.e. in jpeg format). Otherwise please type double spacing or write very clearly. Last date for copy is the LAST DAY of the month prior to publication. Photographs will be returned if you remember to put your name and address on the back of each and enclose suitable stamped and self-addressed packaging. The Church puts before us the short season of Advent, 4 weeks of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas. This is not to help us get all the material aspects of Christmas ready but so that we can prepare our hearts to greet our Saviour. Just think if each one of us was to be as meticulous in our spiritual preparation for Christmas as we are with the physical aspects what a difference that would make. The Catholic Voic e urges readers to find some quiet time each day during Advent to ponder the wonderful gift of the Incarnation and make ourselves ready through prayer and the Sacrament of Reconciliation to greet our Saviour. Clearly, preparation in both the spiritual and physical sense is needed but it is important that we get the balance more in kilter otherwise we shall be so wrapped up in tinsel and turkey that there is no room for Jesus to come into our lives and give us that inner Hope, Peace, Joy and Love this Christmas time. EDITORIAL B y now we are probably in full flow; Christmas Cards are being hastily written or indeed already sent, decisions on whether to have turkey this year or not made, Christmas decorations brought down from the loft, the list is endless. It is almost like a military operation, everything being carefully planned so that the big day goes as smoothly as possible, the effort is hopefully rewarded with smiles all round. But when rushed or sidetracked things can get overlooked - consider the thought of getting to Christmas Day and sharing presents from under the tree and realising that you have forgotten someone or realising that the turkey which should serve 12 is only sufficient for 8 – utter panic! It is just the same with our spiritual life, sometimes it is a struggle but if we are steadfast the effort is always worth it. But if we get sidetracked and push our prayer life into the margins then we will not be ready to let Christ into our lives this Christmas – a real cause to panic! The Catholic Voice wishes all its readers and supporters a most Holy and Blessed Christmas.

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December 2017 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 3 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk Have a “Secret Santa” for the adults in the family, thus choosing just one present with care instead of several in haste. There is the fun of wondering “who bought for whom” . You can agree a general value - £10? Ask for a “CAFOD World Gift” or a donation to a charity. Meeting somebody else’s REAL need is the true spirit of Christmas. Buy fairly-traded crafts, Christmas decorations, chocolates, cakes, biscuits, wine, etc. Subscribe to something that benefits the community -e.g the National Trust or similar organisation - in the dark days of winter one can look forward to summer outings. Try to make rather than buy things. “Making” projects can be relaxing at the end of a busy day. For Advent Calendars,choosing the quotes is a spiritual exercise in itself! Make some of your Christmas cards. Deliver local ones on foot or by bike. Leave an empty place at the Christmas table as a reminder of those who do not have enough to eat. We often hear that “Christmas is for children” … so really INVOLVE them, not just in Christmas, but in the preparation too. Some suggestions: • Plan Christmas as a family, starting with Advent • Ask children to make the decorations and to make, rather than buy your present - it will be something crafted with love for you to treasure • Ask them to prepare a special grace for the Christmas meal • Ask them to do something “extra” for Christmas that helps take the strain off you. Young children might have a “special” quiet time or teenagers give the house a “special” clean before putting up the decorations When you do buy presents: • Look for things that are durable and, where possible, made of natural products or hand-crafted • Take children for a browse in a craft shop before visiting the toyshop Could ‘surplus’ toys be donated before Christmas to those who need them? Recycle older mobiles after Christmas. ‘Live Simply’ Christmas T he glossy magazines try to sell us “the perfect Christmas” . But do we want Christmas to be about things - or about family? Here are ten ideas for ways to get more out of Christmas with less waste. The Environment Group of the Lancaster Diocese Faith & Justice Commission Christmas is what we make it. Let us make it a time of love both for our own families and for our brothers and sisters worldwide. To advertise please contact Caroline on 01440 730399/ 07931 836926 or email carolineg@ cathcom.org Able Wills Professional Will Writers & Estate Planners Have you been meaning to make a Will but never got round to it? Do you own property? Are your children under 18? Are you worried about nursing home fees? Might your estate be liable to Inheritance Tax? If the answer to any of the above is “Yes” then we can help. Specialists for: Wills and Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney, Property & Discretionary Trusts, Funeral Plans Call Malcolm Nightingale For a FREE home visit. 01539 737400 7, Windermere Road, Kendal

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Meaning and Purpose for this Generation www.castleriggmanor.co.uk OVER 4 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + December 2017 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk I was born into a really Catholic family, but I was born very ill. I was baptised in hospital because I needed an operation and there was a big possibility that I wouldn’t survive. When the priest came into the hospital, my parents were afraid that I might die, but the priest told them not to worry and that I had God on my side now and I was going to be just fine. I went in for my operation, and guess what...I survived it. Over the years I’ve come to understand more and more what it was like when I was a baby and I now think that it was Father Kelly’s blessing in hospital that saved me that day. Growing up, my mum, Grandma, Granddad and Aunty always made sure that I went to Church, along with my two brothers Max and Greg, and we attended Star of the Sea RC Primary School in Whitley Bay. At the age of seven I made my first Holy Communion with First Confession and I was Confirmed when I was fifteen. I went to the sixth form college attached to my secondary school, St Thomas More’s, and whilst there had the exciting opportunity to visit Lourdes at Easter two years running. I was part of Group 714 and we worked alongside Group 36. 714 was the school group and 36 the family group. They were both working for HCPT, the Handicapped Pilgrimage Trust. After leaving the sixth form I went to another college, and when I told a group of friends that I was a Catholic they didn’t really accept me. This knocked my faith and, having been involved in the life of my parish, I became less interested in helping at church. After leaving college I went to work in a children’s activity centre, and I was there for two and a half months. In that time I didn’t go to church, and everyone BEING A YOUNG CATHOLIC TODAY ++++ my own age that I talked to about my religion said that they themselves weren’t a Catholic, and the very thought of it didn’t seem to go down well with them. I was starting to think that maybe being a Catholic was a thing of the past, and it was for the more elderly, so I didn’t want to bother going to church anymore. However, I wasn’t enjoying the work that I was doing and one day I remembered going on a school retreat at the Emmaus Youth Village in the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle. I had enjoyed the time I spent there, and it suited my own plan to live away from home for a while. I talked to my parents about wanting to apply and it turned out my mum had read about it on our church bulletin, and thought it would be a good thing for me to do. It was July 2016, and we thought it would be too late to start that summer, but I sent my application form off to them, had my phone call interview and my face to face interview, and joined the programme all within the space of a very quick rushed week, and I embarked on a year that definitely brought my faith back to me, and one that was full of both enjoyment and challenges. That year that I spent with Hexham and Newcastle’s Youth Mission Team I discovered just how many y oung people were happy to live out their faith. There were so many wonderful things for young people to take part in. Schools could come and students would have the opportunity to explore their faith on either day or overnight retreats. I realised in the middle of my year at the Emmaus Youth Village that I wanted to carry out another year in youth ministry, I started to look round at other places that were similar, and I found out that there was a place in Keswick called Castlerigg Manor which ran retreats, and here I am at Castlerigg for a year. Matthew, 20, Castlerigg ...many young people were happy to live out their faith. C astlerigg Manor has been a retreat centre for young people for almost fifty years, and we are blessed by our location in the heart of the Lake District. It gives young people the opportunity to experience the grandeur and beauty of creation even on the coach on their way here and opening their curtains in the morning, but to make the most of it you have to put on boots and head out for a walk. Walks have been part of the Castlerigg Experience since we opened and are part of the programme for nearly every group who visit, whatever the weather. The aim is not for these to be adventurous or physically challenging but to give the opportunity to enjoy and value the environment and to spend time in each other’s company. Many young people haven’t been walking in this way before, and there is a sense of achievement on completing a walk, but often the bigger challenge is spending time without headphones or checking for messages. Today Castlerigg have small selection of routes that are walked regularly, taking in Walla Crag, the Stone Circle, or the shores of Derwent Water. Without being too far from civilisation they create a sense of distance from the day to day world. Safety is, naturally, the first consideration and the staff at Castlerigg are carefully trained to keep everyone safe whilst enjoying the outdoors. Back at Castlerigg there is a room full of walking boots and waterproof jackets to ensure everyone is properly equipped. If you have a walking boots in good condition that aren’t being used we would be very grateful if you could consider donating them to Castlerigg. Alternatively you could make a donation online ( www.castleriggmanor.co.uk/donate ) to help with the up keep of everything, including walking boots and jackets. Events for Your Diary More information at www.castleriggmanor.co.uk Advent Retreat (8th-10th December) Spend the weekend at Castlerigg with friends exploring what Advent is through activities, walking in the Lakes and hot chocolate around the fire place. The weekend is full of fun and laughter. Open to young people in year nine and above. Lourdes (19th – 28th July 2018) We are already planning our pilgrimage to Lourdes next summer. This is an amazing opportunity for young people (aged 15+) to spend a week on pilgrimage, meet other young Catholics, explore their faith and help others. Register your interest on our website. Walking at Castlerigg

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December 2017 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 5 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk A few years ago, Bishop Campbell asked me to consider taking on chaplaincy for Lancashire Army Cadets. I didn’t know anything about the Army Cadets at the time, but I set up a few meetings to find out more. Army Cadets is a youth organisation sponsored by the Army. Cadets are aged 12½ to 18, meet twice a week and have regular camps and other activities. Because of the connection with the Army, the organisation, structures, uniforms and aspects of the programme are based on those of the Army, but Cadets isn’t about recruiting soldiers for the future. It is, rather, a way for the Army to support young people and increase understanding of the Army in society. In Lancashire there are 34 Army Cadet Detachments (local groups) and almost 900 cadets spread across the whole of the county (and 190 adult volunteers) . As chaplain I have visited many of the detachments, but the best opportunity for me to work with cadets is on camps, whether weekends, which are happening all year round, or on the annual camp which takes place for two weeks every summer. Much of my time on camp, and that of the other chaplains, is spent getting alongside the cadets. In my three years I have joined cadets walking, climbing, canoeing, mountain biking, camping, on battlefield tours in northern France and even swimming with seals. Working in a secular environment, where you can’t presume any faith, has been a very different experience for me, but I have been amazed by the way that I am quickly accepted and trusted by cadets. And this gives the opportunity to talk about almost anything, including faith. On annual camp I celebrate Mass though the numbers are small, but, with the other chaplains, we also have a Church Parade, an open-air service for everyone on camp, perhaps four or five hundred people. It is a great privilege to have this opportunity to work with young people who probably have little other contact with the faith or the Church. In the three years I have served with Lancashire Army Cadets I have been impressed by the opportunities that are offered to young people, by the commitment of the adult volunteers, and not just their openness to chaplaincy but the respect in which chaplains are held. Fr John Moriarty For more information about Army Cadets see: www.armycadets.com/county/lancashire-acf Army Cadet Chaplaincy To advertise please contact Caroline on 07931 836926 or 01440 730399 or email carolineg@ cathcom.org

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6 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + December 2017 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk P upils, staff and governors of Corpus Christi Catholic High School in Fulwood, Preston celebrated their end of year ‘Mass of Thanksgiving’ on Wednesday 19 July during the last week of the summer term. This year’s theme was ‘Jesus the light of the world’ and over the previous two weeks, pupils had been preparing the sports hall for Mass. A very large radiant cross, positioned behind the altar, was flanked either side with large graphical displays proclaiming ‘You are the Light of the World!’ (Matthew 5:16) and ‘Let your Light Shine ’. There was a canopy of white lights above the whole congregation and pupils and staff had written on decorative light bulbs, which were displayed around the hall, proclaiming the blessings that they had received during the year. Joining the school for the Mass were celebrants Fr Mario Ashuikeka and Fr Ernest Attah from Ladyewell, Fr John McGowan from Tabor, Deacons Jim McGuire, St Gregory’s and Michael Dolan from Blessed Sacrament. The Mass was a wonderful way in which to mark the end of the final academic term and to give thanks to God for the many blessings that the school had received throughout the year. Mass of Thanksgiving Chaplain John Griffin initially welcomed everyone in the hall and asked all present to remember that Jesus tells us he is the light of the world, but he also tells us that we are the light of the world too. John then asked everyone to reflect through a short drama sequence, prepared by the drama department, on the creation story in which God said ‘let there be light ’. Mass began with an opening hymn with musical accompaniment by the school band who were joined by Ruth White, from the Metanoia Project. Retiring teacher Mr McGeoghan read the first reading from St. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians 5:8. Year 8 pupil Taylor Stout delightfully sang the Responsorial Psalm with the congregation joining in the refrain. In the first reading St Paul encouraged us to be the children of light and in the Gospel ( Matthew 5:14- 16) , read by Deacon Michael, Jesus told us that we are the light of the world and commanded us to let our light shine in the sight of others, so that they may glorify the Father. In the homily, Fr Mario reaffirmed to pupils that just as a light helps us to find our way in the darkness, so Jesus helps us to find our way on the journey of life. The celebration was again a very peaceful and prayerful time for the whole school community of Corpus Christi and a wonderful way to mark the end of the school year. John Scarborough

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December 2017 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 7 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk K evin Lowry was born on 13 June 1950, in Carlisle, Cumbria, where he would later attend St Margaret Mary’s School, Carlisle and Austin Friars School. He joined the Augustinian Order (OSA) straight from school in 1969, making his first profession in 1970. Studies followed at Milltown Park, Dublin and the Angelicum, Rome, and he was ordained a priest in the chapel at Austin Friars on 18 September 1976. The newly-ordained Father Lowry was first appointed to St Monica’s, Hoxton (1975- 1981) , as a deacon while doing a pastoral year whilst at Heythrop College, then as Fr. Kevin Lowry RIP 1950-2017 Assistant Priest and finally as Parish Priest (1977-1981) . At the time, he was said to be the youngest Parish Priest in England, still then in his late twenties! Appointments fol lowed in Augustinian parishes (Harborne and Quinton) in Birmingham (1981-1983) , then in St Augustine’s, Hammersmith (1983-1985) . Father Kevin then went on the missions and was assigned to the first Augustinian community in Inchon, South Korea (1985- 1993) arriving there in September 1985, where he remained until March 1993. Two years at a language school, with a variety of pastoral experiences, including supplying in parishes and working as a residential hospital chaplain in the Our Lady of Mercy Hospital in Pupyong, was followed by an appointment as Superior Assistant Priest in 1989 at the first Augustinian parish in Korea, of Christ the King, Inchon. He later took over as Parish Priest in 1992. Returning to the UK in 1993, he was appointed to the Augustinian parish in Currie, until 1995, when he was assigned once again to St Monica’s, Hoxton as Parish Priest until 1999. In 1999, he decided to join his home Diocese of Lancaster, where he was appointed Assistant Priest at St Anthony, Preston (1999-2003) and he was canonically incardinated into the Diocese in 2003. He was then appointed Parish Priest at Our Lady & St James’, Millom (2003-2006) , St Benedict’s, Whitehaven (2006-2009) and then to Our Lady & St Edward’s, Preston, (2009-2011) . Father Kevin then returned briefly to the Augustinians (2011-2013) , serving as Parish Priest of St Joseph’s, Broomhouse in Edinburgh. Upon his return to the Diocese of Lancaster, he was appointed as temporary Parochial Administrator at the Cathedral Parish of St Peter & St Thomas More, Lancaster (May 2013-2014) . From there in 2014, until his untimely death, Father Kevin served happily as Parish Priest at Holy Family, Freckleton and St Anne’s, Westby. The Requiem Mass for Father Kevin Lowry was celebrated at St Joseph’s, Ansdell on Wednesday 18 October 2017 at 11.30am. A cremation f ollow ed. My deepest condolences go to Father Kevin’s family, especially to his father Tom, his sister Anne with her husband Tony, and indeed all who have lost a dear friend, brother priest and the parishioners who have lost a well-loved Parish Priest. May he rest in the peace of the Risen Lord. + M. G. Campbell OSA Bishop of Lancaster THE STAFF, GOVERNORS AND PUPILS/STUDENTS OF THE FOLLOWING SCHOOLS WOULD LIKE TO WISH THE READERS OF THE CATHOLIC VOICE A HAPPY AND HOLY CHRISTMAS ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC ACADEMY St. Walburga’s Road, Blackpool, FY3 7EQ Headteacher: Mr Simon Eccles Tel: 01253 396286 Email: admin@st-mary.blackpool.sch.uk Our Lady’s Catholic High School St Anthony’s Drive, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire PR2 3SQ Headteacher: Mr Nigel Ranson Tel: 01772 326900 Email: admin@olchs.lancs.sch.uk Web: http://www.olchs.lancs.sch.uk Thinking of becoming a teacher? The Preston based Catholic Teaching Alliance (CTA) is a partnership between 56 Catholic primary and secondary schools and post-16 colleges led by Our Lady’s Catholic High School with a shared vision and commitment to providing first class, professional development for trainee teachers, practising teachers and school leaders. Contact: 01772 326931 Email: CTAschooldirect@olchs.lancs.sch.uk St Francis’ Catholic Primary School and Pre-School `We care for each other and we always try to do our best` The Hill, Horns Lane, Goosnargh, Preston, LancashirePR3 2FJ www.stfranciscatholicprimaryschool.co.uk Headteacher: Miss Sarah Deakin head@st-francis.lancs.sch.uk Tel 01772 865369 Fax 01772 863947

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8 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + December 2017 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk SHARE THE FARE… by Julia Beacroft T HE TRADITIONAL TURKEY roast dinner seems to be synonymous with Christmas and I’ve certainly had my fair share of cooking them. Yet strangely many of us seem to be over-awed, worried or downright stressed at the prospect of tackling the festive big bird each year. Questions over whether we have the right sized roasting tin, the correct width baking foil and even more importantly, how long the bird will take to cook in the oven, causes many cooks to scratch their heads and ponder each year. And problems so easily arise as well… A friend of mine invited some elderly guests who had no families of their own for the Christmas meal, but nearly had a heart attack himself when he dropped the roasting tin, complete with half-cooked turkey on to his kitchen floor. FOOL PROOF PLAN On another occasion, my kitchen came close to resembling an abattoir, when I tried to implement what I believed to be a fool proof plan to make sure that the turkey was cooked to perfection. Or so I thought… As a family of six we were in possession of a large slow cooker. Therefore the perfect solution to the timing debacle was to put the turkey in to slow cook overnight on a low setting. Ideal! Unfortunately however, the slow cooker was large – but clearly not large enough. Denuded of first it’s wings and then its legs in a desperate bid to fit it in, my late father was heard to murmur sympathetically: “Poor little so-and-so! What have they done to you?!” SHARING OUR LIVES Of course, turkey dinners for Christmas are rooted in history, originally being introduced into this country circa 1500s and with King Henry VIII being the first British monarch to enjoy the bird at Christmas. Yet this year I am planning a change of menu. On Christmas Day when my large and extended family gather together, we are having ‘shared plate’ buffet-style Christmas fare. Why? Well, obviously if you’re a roast turkey and vegetable fan this wouldn`t necessarily appeal to you, but there are definitely some advantageous reasons. The idea of coming together, bringing and sharing, is fundamentally founded in Christianity. Hospitality and sharing our food, which has been produced by man in co- operation with God, means that we are also sharing our lives. And it seems to me that sharing our lives with each other and with the Lord is the very essence of the season of Christmas. THE ESSENTIAL HEART The ‘Bring and share’ initiative is not necessarily synonymous with Christmas dinner, but it is synonymous with Christianity as we share the food and the workload! And this unique and novel way of having the Christmas meal means that all those involved can go to Mass on Christmas morning without having to worry or get in a flap about over or under-cooking the seasonal turkey. Christmas Day is the celebration of the Lord’s birth. This is the essential heart of the celebration of Christmas. Without the Lord, there would be no Christmas. Without turkey, we can manage perfectly. Julia Beacroft is an author, editor, workshop leader and presenter in Catholic faith formation. Her book ‘Sanctifying the Spirit’ is available to buy from AMAZON, www.waterstones.com or Book Depository. Please visit www.sanciobooks.com for more information. Copyright © Julia Beacroft 2017. All rights reserved.

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December 2017 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 9 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk O n the 19thOctober Dean Gibson Catholic Primary School in Kendal had a Porridge Smiles fundraiser led by our Mini Vinnies group of Year 5 and 6 pupils. We sold porridge and flapjack to the rest of the school, including our new Nursery class. People from home helped to make the flapjack and gave oat donations. Mary’s Meals is an important charity which we wanted to get involved in fundraising for, because its aim is to ensure that school children in Malawi and Liberia receive vitamin-enriched maize porridge every school day. World Porridge Porridge Day for Mary’s Meals By Mini Vinnies (Junior SVP) Day celebrates the huge difference this daily mug of porridge makes to the lives of chronically hungry children. From this charitable event we raised a total over £200, enough to feed over 14 children every day for a year. We were very proud of this fundraiser for Mary’s Meals. We made so many flapjacks we also sold it on the next day to raise more money. All of our Mini Vinnie’s helped and had a GREAT time! We had lots of toppings to choose from for our bowls of porridge and everyone loved it! Anna Dinneen and Daniel Plavec, Mini Vinnies

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10 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + December 2017 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk A s Christmas time approaches the dates and start times of impending school nativity plays are important events to mark (IN RED) on the kitchen calendar. My wife Olive and I have been blessed with five children and to date 20 grandchildren (three too young yet to attend school) . Whilst we do not necessarily regard ourselves as experts on nativity plays it is fair to say that since the 1970’s we have attended a considerable number! Our particular circumstances are also complicated by the fact that our grandchildren attend three different Catholic primary schools which can create something of a logistical challenge. We have to go back to Christmas Eve 1223 to discover when it all began when His Holiness Pope Honorious III, who had helped to organise the ill-fated 5th Crusade to the Holy Land, gave permission to a monk to have a nativity scene accompany his midnight mass in Greccio. The monk, called Giovanni di Pietro di Berdone had unsuccessfully attempted to bring an end to the Crusade by converting the Sultan. Aided by a local gentleman Giovanni Velita, Francis of Assisi (as he came to be known) celebrated midnight Mass accompanied by a life-size nativity scene with live animals. Of course today it is rare to see live animals take part in schools performances, although our Border Collie ‘ Rambo’ did perform to rave reviews some years ago slightly mis-cast as Bill Sykes ugly bulldog ‘Bulls-eye’ in Lytham St Peter’s primary school production of ‘Oliver’ . Growing up in the 1950’s I cannot recall any lavish Nativity productions at my primary school as there are today. For many families post-war austerity was still a factor and ‘making ends meet’ still a struggle for many. My lasting memory of the run up to the Christmas holidays is, what seemed at the time, the endless task of making paper chains from coloured gummed strips of paper to decorate the school classroom. Today the traditional nativity play has given way to more ambitious productions that, for the sake of inclusivity, include the whole class giving everyone the opportunity to participate even if it is only as a palm tree. Choosing the cast is still a tricky task for the school staff and can still be a cause for concern amongst some parents at the school gate. Feelings can run high when “Chardonnay has been picked as Mary when her family don’t even go to church!” However I have always thought that your daughter cast as Mary at the age of eight can be a burden – where does she go from here - has she peaked too soon? “It’s Nativity Play time…” “Oh no it isn’t” – “Oh Yes It Is!”

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December 2017 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 11 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk The traditional story has lost its appeal of late and productions are now titled “The Grumpy Shepherd”, “The Wonky Donkey”, “The Angel that lost her Halo”, “The Unhappy Inn Keeper” , to name but a few, each with its own songs and music. I suppose it brings variety and I once overheard a father complain to his wife that he was fed up of coming to the school nativity as it was the same story every year! In 2009 the film “Nativity” illustrated the best and worst of nativity plays when rival schools Catholic St Bernadette’s battled with Protestant Oakmoor private school to get the best review for their performances in the local newspaper. Frank Cotterall Boyce’s excellent award winning children’s book and film ‘Millions’ also features a school nativity play at a crucial part of the story. Of course no school production would be the same without the occasional mishap and Harry Hill’s ‘You’ve been Framed!’ is full of such examples. Over the years Olive and I have seen the naughty boy playing the donkey disgrace himself, the third star from the right on the back row singing her heart out several decibels louder than the rest of the stars but unfortunately rarely singing the right note. Sheep have fallen off the stage, and Mary and Joseph not receiving any myrrh as the boy playing Balthazar had stage fright and refused to ‘go on’ . There can be a few choice words expressed when your little darling informs you that they need a costume making for tomorrow. Usually the said child has known this for a fortnight but failed to inform you. Costumes can also be the cause of a few uninvited guests visit your house after a performance as there can be nits lurking in the head gear of last year’s costumes. “In class a little girl is drawing a picture of the nativity. Her teacher looks at her work and next to Mary and Joseph is a rotund looking man. Who is that asks the teacher? Oh replies the little girl it is Round John Virgin!” This year Olive and I have six grandchildren spread over two primary schools and so far we have been given no dates and times yet of performances but hopefully it will not be too punishing a schedule – they will of course be wonderful. If you are not attending a nativity play this year, or even if you are, I recommend you log on to YouTUBE and watch ‘ Bethlehemian Rhapsody’ by the American worship leader and song writer Mark Bradford. You will not be disappointed. Nativity plays or not, I wish you a Merry & Peaceful Christmas. Dave Yates

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12 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + December 2017 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk T he Reformation which shook Europe began in 1517 - 500 years ago this autumn when Martin Luther wrote his 95 Theses. When you go to the shrine of Walsingham and the surrounding areas you cannot but, be drawn into reflecting on the impact and consequence to this day, of this turbulent period in our nations history. The Slipper Chapel (Minor Basilica Dec 2015) Built in 1340, was the last chapel on the pilgrim route to Walsingham. It was restored thanks to a generous benefactor Miss Charlotte Pearson Boyd a convert. We had the privilege of joining with the national pilgrimage of the Our Lady of Fatima Statue with the Relics of St Francesco and St Jacinta. A torchlit procession to the Slipper Chapel was quite a reflective moment. On a day trip to Oxburgh Hall, and by the kind permission of Sir Henry and Lady Mary Bedingfeld, BishopCampbell celebrated a Votive Mass of the English Martyrs at which the family joined us. Later in the day Sir Henry spoke of the penal times and the taxes on his ancestors as a Catholic family and restrictions of how far from the house they were al lowed to go, three pieces of Lancaster Diocesan Pilgrimage to Walsingham washing on the hedge if Mass was to be celebrated in three days time..... the Priest Hole reputed to have been built by St Nicholas Owen... so it was quite a poignant moment which cut right to the heart when Sir Henry said `the sanctuary lamp never went out at Oxburgh` . The Oxburgh altarpiece was acquired to adorn the 19th century Chapel, celebrating the Bedingfelds’ Catholic faith. It was only after the relaxation of laws against Catholicism that such an imposing object could be displayed. The Oxburgh Retable, a composite altar are Flemish, second quarter of the 16th century with painted panels, almost certainly by Pieter Coecke van Aelst (1502-1550) who entered the Antwerp Guild of Painters in 1527. The witness of our English Martyrs is a foundation on which witness to our faith is built today and their sacrifice should not be in vain.... We earnestly pray for England to return to the Dowry of Mary, but first we need to return to Walsingham.... join us in 2018.... Tuesday 25th Sept to Friday 28th Sept 2018, limited places available.... Details will be in parishes in the New Year. Paul Briers, Pilgrimage Organiser All photos courtesy of Bishops Blog.

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December 2017 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 13 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk Complete pest control solutions call School building work and refurbishment/ conversion, building and joinery work, extensions, alterations & repairs, loft conversions, replacement doors and windows Builders Yard, 66 Marsden Street, Kirkham, Preston PR4 2TH Tel: (01772) 684489 Fax: (01772) 671486 email: admin@jeharrison.co.uk www.jeharrisonbuilders.co.uk 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 class mail When phoning please quote MV101 – serving Schools, Business and Homes

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14 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + December 2017 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk Causes for Portrait of Leonard Cheshire reproduced by permission of Jane Mendoza. B orn into a middle class family and educated at private schools Leonard completed his studies at Oxford University. He wasn’t the greatest of students and was as high spirited and flippant as his peers: the pub being more important to him than the library. After his finals he was called up to serve in Bomber Command. Within months a new man was born; a man who put away childish things. Leonard’s true God-given inner nature began to emerge; a man of leadership, foresight, courage and determination. With great skill he developed the ‘pathfinder’ technique of low-level flying and by 1943 was Squadron Leader of the renowned ‘Dambuster’ 617 Squadron. He won the DFC, then three DSO’s and in 1944 the VC for completing 100 sorties. After the war Leonard pondered his future. He had been baptised an Anglican but had only been a nominal Christian, with an uninformed view of God. But a chance meeting and conversation a young lady convinced him of the reality of an intimate God, living in and influencing each individual. Leonard immediately focused his attention to exploring Christianity but struggled to satisfy his search for a Church in which Truth, Unity and Authority co-existed. During this search he became aware of the plight of ex- servicemen, now demobilised but without jobs or homes. He felt drawn to answering their needs and began to develop schemes to help settle them on estates where they could work on the land. His vocation was beginning to take shape. Leonard managed to scrape enough funds together to buy a 25 Leonard Cheshire 1917 – 1992 Forged in war, compassionate in peace bedroom property in Hampshire and just as this scheme was failing an ex-soldier, Arthur Dykes, dying of cancer fell into Leonard’s arms. Without a second thought Leonard took Arthur in and cared for his every need including washing and feeding him. Arthur was a Catholic but not practising his faith but nonetheless a priest was called as he neared death. Leonard was deeply moved by the simplicity and prayerfulness of the administration of the Sacraments and prayers for the dying. This experience of the Catholic Church in action inspired Leonard; and finding in her the Truth, Authority and Unity he sought, Leonard was received into the Church on Christmas Eve 1948. From that moment Leonard lived his life with Jesus as his focus; the Sacraments as his strength; prayer his constant companion; to love God and to love his neighbour his motivation. He dedicated his life to caring for ex-servicemen and others opening 80 homes in the UK and 250 worldwide. Unremitting work led to him contracting TB and he was hospitalised for 2 years when he spent hours in silent prayer intensifying an already deep spirituality. After this he married Sue Ryder and had two children. But a further knock awaited him when he was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease. Becoming increasingly immobile he retired from administration and devoted his time to developing his relationship with Christ. Finding it hard to focus on prayer he simply concentrated his spirit on the Cheshire Homes 300+ worldwide –one by one, offering his disabilities and sufferings in union with Christ on the Cross for the benefit of the residents in each of those homes. His life increasingly showed how grace, building on nature leads to holiness. Tw o 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 SELF STORAGE Secure Units Available Sizes To Suit All Needs Competitive Rates From as little as £5 per week Open 7 Days Also Caravan/Car/Boat Storage Curly Tail Storage, Park Lane, Forton Tel: 01524 791837 www.curlytailstorage.co.uk

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December 2017 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 15 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk J ohn Bradburne`s life and work had a powerful impact on me. I came to him late, indeed, after I had been working for more than 30 years studying the Catholic martyrs of our time. This included the publication of some 20 books and a spell on the Vatican`s Pontifical Commission for the New Martyrs instituted by Pope John Paul II in 1994. Against all that had come before, Bradburne`s story really stood out. For three years I devoted my time to reading and rereading Bradburne`s poems and letters, scouring the archives made available to me by the John Bradburne Memorial Society archives. Then, I set out in the footsteps of Bradburne, leading me to Britain, then Europe and down through Africa. As I travelled I interviewed dozens of people who had known him- almost to a man their memories of him and his deeds remained vivid in their minds almost half a century later. Born in 1921 in Skirwith, Cumbria, son of an Anglican clergyman, Bradburne spent a good part of his youth climbing trees and the Lakeland Fells. Indeed, it wasn`t until he was drafted into the British army in 1940 that religion began to become an influence in his life. He found faith when death was all around him with the Chindits, a special operations unit of the British Army in Burma. He returned to Europe a reluctant hero and started looking for work. Back home he went through a succession of jobs, including: forester, schoolmaster, stoker on a fishing trawler, gravedigger, street musician, garbage collector, but in time he came to realise that his real vocation lay with God. In 1947 he joined the Catholic Church, experimenting first with both Benedictine and Carthusian spirituality, before deciding to follow the spiritual path of St Francis of Assisi. Bradburne described himself variously as a `Buffoon of Christ` , `a fool skilled in fiasco` , pilgrim, hermit, mystic, drifter and a `rolling stone` . He even stayed a year in the Organ loft of a church in a small town near Naples, where he had a mystical marriage with the Holy Virgin. In 1961, he asked his wartime friend John Dove, who had become a Jesuit in what was then Southern Rhodesia and what is now Zimbabwe, to find him a suitable retreat where he could retire from the world. He left the following year for Africa, where he started a new round of odd jobs, as handyman in a Franciscan mission, then warden of a Jesuit residence.In 1969, after a visit to the Holy Land to sing the Jeremiah Lamentations at the Wailing Wall, he returned to Zimbabwe and went with a friend to visit Mutemwa Leprosy Centre, where hundreds of lepers, far from receiving palliative care, were awaiting death in appalling conditions. Bradburne decided on the spot to live among them, soon making Beatification John Bradburne The Vagabond of God - by Didier Rance himself a friend of one and all. He acted as the lepers` caretaker, nurse, cook and confidante. He even formed a Gregorian and Shona choir. Mutemwa quickly became a special place of prayer, peace, laughter and joy, yet, sadly this awoke jealousy and suspicion, and he was expelled from the Centre. Bradburne`s expulsion from Mutemwa lasted six months, six months he spent living on Chigona mountain overlooking the centre, coming in at night to visit the lepers, and writing some of his most profound Trinitarian poems. When he was finally allowed to return to live near the settlement, Mutemwa had become caught up in the turmoil of civil war and the atrocities perpetrated by both sides in the conflict. It was requested that he leave for his own safety as guerilla warfare surrounded Mutemwa; Bradburne stoutly replied: `Would they waste a bullet on a clown?` . He stayed on to care as best he could for the lepers as the situation grew desperate. Then, less than two months after the assasination of Luisa Guidotti, an Italian Sister and doctor who, with Bradburne, was the only other European caring for the lepers at Mutemwa, it was his turn. Abducted by young guerillas, Bradburne was put on trial and summarily shot dead. Since his death many other unusual events have been reported in relation to his name. His lasting legacy is that Mutemwa is now a place of pilgrimage, and there is a growing movement in support of his cause for Sainthood. And there is also the rich legacy of his poetry. To those who, loving little, live life not I make for death no deep apology; To those who look upon it as the cot Of rest in Christ till rising, I reply Duly with Alleluia; but, to die Wait not till death: die to the deadly seven, Put on in time sublime eternity, Think immortality, link up with Heaven. Jean Vanier, the founder of L`Arche, said, `The story of John`s life has touched me, heart and soul, and brought me closer to God. It has revealed to me a God wonderfully full of surprises, better, more intelligent, more creative than we could imagine. An extraordinary God who cannot be confined in rational concepts or in an `ordinary` religious life.` The UK edition of John Bradburne: The Vagabond of God, by Didier Rance is sold by The John Bradburne Memorial Society, PO Box 32, Leominster, HR6 0YB, priced at £15 inclusive of postage. www.johnbradburne.com The book received the prestigious Grand Prix Catholique de Litterature in 2013. WILLIAM HOUGHTON FUNERAL DIRECTORS An Independent Catholic Family Firm Serving our community for over 100 years 259 Garstang Road, Fulwood, PR2 9XL Tel: 01772 788020 www.williamhoughtonfunerals.co.uk Martin`s The Funeral Directors 188, Tulketh Brow, Ashton-on-Ribble, Preston 1, Stonebridge Parade, Preston Road, Longridge Tel. 01772-733007 or 01772-782121 Proprietor W. Martin Wootton Dedicated and Blessed Chapels of Rest Golden Charter Pre-Paid Funeral Plans The complete funeral service from a private family owned and run firm Our advertisers are great supporters of the Catholic Voice, so please help them by supporting their businesses

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16 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + December 2017 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk T his year I travelled with my family to the Greek island of Rhodes, to a quiet part of the island called Pefkos, near the famous town of Lindos. The resort is used by a lot of English for weddings, and very beautiful, three hotels in one with about 8 swimming pools. The first day we arrived we went on a walk about to familiarise ourselves and I found in the corner of the complex a beautiful round Greek chapel which had the most amazing byzantine frescos in it, all over the walls and ceiling. It was in a very quiet and secluded place and perfect for meditation and prayer. As I have been writing icons for nearly four years, at Hyning Monastery and also in my own studio, I was delighted to come across a little chapel, where I went each day after breakfast to pray. It was very small but so peaceful, a real oasis, I felt very blessed to be able to pray and sit and meditate in this beautiful chapel. All the surfaces, ceiling and walls are covered with the most amazing bible stories and with angels and saints. I have already booked to go back next year. Teresa Smith Rhodes A beautiful jewel in God’s ocean

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December 2017 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 17 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk Island of Symi I was told about a beautiful island just north of Rhodes called Symi, that is dedicated to St Michael the Archangel and has a beautiful monastery in Panormitis. The island is very unspoilt and the icon of St Michael is very special to the people of Symi and Rhodes. It is solid silver and has the most beautiful face. Again, it was so lovely to see all the visitors heading to the Monastery to see this priceless icon. Pictured to the right is the monastery at Panormitis, on the island of Symi. (Below) The 14 century priceless solid silver icon of St Michael Archangel, patron saint of Symi. - Live in a Catholic community that works for young people - Be trained in first aid, food hygiene, safeguarding and youth work skills - Work with many young people every week - Live in the beautiful Bollington countryside and have all food and board included, as well as a weekly allowance. - Be supported in your professional and spiritual growth over your 10 month-long placement. Looking for a gap year where you can make a difference? At Savio House, you will have the opportunity to FINDING DIRECTION Friday 2nd – Sunday 4th March 2018 A Guided Retreat for Young Adults (18-40) at The Cherwell Centre, 14, Norham Gardens, Oxford OX2 6QB For more information and Booking Form contact Anne Stewart astewart@shcj.org Tel. 01253 318196 or aoconnor@shcj.org Tel: 01865 552106 SOCIETY OF THE HOLY CHILD JESUS

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18 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + December 2017 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk O ne of my earliest challenges as an 8 year old altar server was how to handle the priest’s biretta. The biretta was the priest’s hat, a square, black cap with 3 peaks on its upper surface. Taking the biretta from the priest, when we reached the altar, was straightforward; handing it back at the end of Mass was when the problems started. The server had to ensure that the priest could take hold of the middle of the 3 peaks. Grasping any other peak meant that the biretta would not go on straight. There was an awful fuss if the server got the biretta the wrong way round! Birettas date from around the 10th century. They reflected the Jewish tradition of covering ones head for prayer, a custom that Jesus himself would have observed. Once the use of the biretta was established, it took on a life of its own. A range of protocols, rubrics and liturgical practices were developed governing who, when and where the biretta might be worn. Colour coding was adopted: black for priests, purple for bishops, and red for cardinals. Birettas were given different numbers of peaks, and assorted pom-poms and tassels, each modification identifying separate roles and functions. It was formerly the rule that a priest should always wear a biretta when giving absolution in confession. This ancient usage probably gave rise to the “black cap” worn by English judges when pronouncing a sentence of death! Ironically, the Pope does not wear a biretta, but a plain, white skull-cap called a “camauro” . Fortunately, the Second Vatican Council cleared away a lot of the undergrowth from these issues, not least by making the wearing of the biretta optional. Its use has now largely disappeared, save for a foothold in conservative circles and an emerging revival among some seminarians and newly ordained priests – whether that resurgence grows into something more substantial remains to be seen. If it does, then the training of 8 year old servers will need to be updated, if only to ensure that the priest can put his hat on straight! Rev. P.N.J. Marley, Deacon “Is my Biretta on straight?”

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December 2017 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + 19 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk

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20 + The Catholic Voice of Lancaster + December 2017 www.catholicvoiceoflancaster.co.uk Christmas Mass Times Preston Our Lady & St Edward Christmas Eve 5.30pm Carols 6.00pm Christmas Family Mass 11.30 Carols and Readings 12.00 Midnight Mass Christmas Day 1000am Mass of Christmas Day Lytham St Peter Christmas Eve: (Sunday) Mass at 10.30am Carols at 7.30pm followed by the Vigil Mass at 8.00pm Christmas Day: (Monday) Mass at 10.30am Kendal & Sedbergh Holy Trinity and St. George Christmas Eve: 6.00pm, 11.30pm Carols and Midnight Mass Christmas Day 10.00am Christmas Eve: 8.00pm held in St Andrews Anglican Church St Peter`s Cathedral, Lancaster St Peter`s, Balmoral Rd, Lancaster LA1 3BT Christmas Eve St Thomas More’s Church 6.30pm St Peter’s Cathedral, Lancaster Midnight Mass preceded by carols from 11.30pm Christmas Day St Thomas More’s Church 9.30am St Peter’s Cathedral, Lancaster 10.30am Ansdell, St Joseph Woodlands Road FY8 4EP Fourth Sunday of Advent 6pm Vigil Mass (Saturday 23 Dec) 9.15am Family Mass (Sunday 24th Dec) No 5.05pm Mass Christmas Eve/Christmas Day 11.30pm Carols 12.00am Midnight Mass of the Nativity 10am Family Mass of Christmas Parish Hall open to all from 11am until 2pm for festive nibbles, music and conversation Tuesday 26-Friday 29 December 10am Mass each day Sunday 31 December - Feast of the Holy Family 6pm Vigil Mass (Saturday 30 Dec) 9.15am Family Mass 5.05pm Mass New Years Day - Solemnity of Mary Mother of God 12 noon Mass St Joseph’s offers a warm welcome to all Whitehaven St Begh Sunday 24 December First Mass of Sunday is at 6pm on Saturday 23 December at St Begh’s 8am Quay Street Chapel 10am St Begh’s Christmas Day Carols before the first Mass of Christmas, beginning at 5:30pm First Mass of Christmas is at 6pm on Christmas Eve 8am Quay Street Chapel 10am St Begh’s Holy Family Sunday (31 December) First Mass of Sunday is at 6pm on Saturday 8am Quay Street Chapel 10am St Begh’s 6pm St Begh’s Blackpool St Bernadette Christmas Eve 5.00pm Children`s Christmas Mass 7.30pm Carols and Readings 8.00pm Candlelit Sung Christmas Mass Christmas Day 10.00am Christmas morning Mass St Mary Newhouse, and Our Lady and St. Edward, Fulwood Saturday 23rd December (OLSE) Confessions: 10am and 5.30pm (OLSE) 6.00pm Sunday Vigil Mass Sunday 24th Dec. (OLSE) 8.30am Sunday Mass (SMN) 10.00am Sunday Mass (OLSE) 10.30am Sunday Mass Christmas Eve (SMN) 6.00pm First Mass of Christmas (OLSE) 5.30pm Carols, followed by: 6.00pm First Mass of Christmas (OLSE) 11.30pm Carols, followed by: 12.00 Midnight Mass Christmas Day (SMN) 10.00am Mass of Christmas Day (OLSE) 10.00am Mass of Christmas Day Preston St Wilfrid Christmas Eve 7.30pm Carols 8.00pm First Mass of Christmas Christmas Day 7.00am Mass 10.15 Mass No 4.30pm Mass M ass Listings – December 2017/January 2018 Christ the King, Harraby, Carlisle First Sundays: 6.00 pm St John Vianney, Marton, Blackpool Mondays: 12.00 noon Fridays: 6.00 pm Shrine Church of St Walburge, Preston Mondays – Fridays: 8.30 am Low Mass Saturdays 10.30 am Sundays: 10.30 am, Sung Mass Shrine of the English Martyrs, Preston Mondays – Fridays: 12 noon, Low Mass Saturdays: 10.00 am, Low Mass Sundays: 9.00 am, Low Mass Sunday 10th December at 3.00 pm Second Sunday of Advent St Mary`s, Hornby Sunday 21st January at 3.00 pm Third Sunday after Epiphany St Mary`s, Hornby Mass is also celebrated every Sunday at 8.30 am at St Mary Magdalene, Leyland Road, Penwortham and 11.30 am at St Catherine Labouré, Stanifield Lane, Leyland. Local Representatives: Bob & Jane Latin Telephone: 01524 412987 Email: lancasterlms@gmail.com Website: latinmasslancaster.blogspot.com The Sons Of Divine Providence Only Charity will save the world Vocations Weekend Friday evening January 12, 13, 14 2018 Friday evening February 16, 17, 18 2018 For men and women thinking of becoming a priest or religious Contact: Fr John C. Perrotta 21 Lower Teddington Road, Hampton Wick, Kingston Upon Thames KT1 4HB Tel: 07921 125283 Email:johnperrotta208@gmail.com Preston, St Clare’s Sunday 24th December 6pm: First Mass of Christmas 11:30pm: Carols & Midnight Mass Monday 25th December The Nativity of the Lord Mass at 10am Tuesday 26th December St Stephen Mass at 10am (Mass for altar servers, with presentation of guild medals) St Annes-on-the-Sea Our Lady Star of the Sea Christmas Eve: 6.30pm Family Vigil Mass 12.00 Midnight Mass Christmas Day 9.30am Mass 11.00 Mass Christ the King & St Kentigern, Blackpool Christmas Eve 6pm Vigil Mass at Christ the King, Rodwell Walk, FY3 7FG Midnight Mass preceded by carols from 11.30pm at St Kentigern’s, Newton Drive, FY3 8BT Christmas Day Family Mass at 9.45am at St Kentigern’s

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