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 Newspaper of The Union of Catholic Mothers www.theucm.co.uk Adoremus - page 3 Stained glass window - page 14 Choir in Germany - page 5 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. Winter 2018 First visit to Walsingham I decided to `sign up` for the UCM annual pilgrimage to Walsingham based on the enthusiasm of some of our members who had gone there previously. This was the first year for some time that I was free from other responsibilities too. I didn`t know much about the significance of it as a place of pilgrimage and wondered how a shrine could be shared between Catholics and Anglicans! Now you know my level of ignorance! I boarded the coach as arranged and sat with a friend from church who was also a `newbie` and we set off on our long journey to Norfolk. Whilst we were on the coach we were given an itinerary and two little tags that we had to keep attached to a bag or ourselves. The significance of these was a bit lost on me. I later discovered that the yellow tag identified me as a UCM pilgrim and entitled me to a booklet containing the order of service for the entire pilgrimage. The second tag had my name and where I was staying on the back.... useful in case I had a `senior moment’! It had been arranged for us to stay on the site of the Anglican shrine. We were given a very warm welcome and issued with our room keys. I had a lovely room with a French window that opened onto a veranda overlooking a beautiful garden. Speaking with some of our group who had been coming to Walsingham for a long time I realised how very fortunate I was to have such good accommodation. In times gone by the accommodation was very basic, often several sharing a room and bathroom. The food then was pretty grim too. Here the grounds were beautifully kept and I felt a real sense of peace and calm. I also soon came to understand that this was a very special place of pilgrimage for Anglicans. The shrine church here is well worth a visit. I was surprised by all the small side altars. After a very good supper, I joined some fellow pilgrims who were going to walk to the Chapel of Reconciliation at the Catholic Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham about a mile and half from the village, for the Service of Light. The distance we walked on that day and the following one were recorded digitally to add to `Share the Journey` a global campaign launched by Pope Francis and promoted by CAFOD, to stand up for the rights of people on the move. Pope Francis had asked that we walk around the world in solidarity with refugees and asylum seekers and to show world leaders that they must step up too. Thank you, Lorraine, for the idea and for recording our walk. As we approached the Chapel we were issued with a Pilgrimage booklet and a candle and our yellow tags were checked. I was surprised by the very modern interior of the Chapel and thought it was a beautiful space. After the service which included Benediction and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, those of us who were able, processed by candlelight back into the village. During this procession the Rosary was said and a verse of a hymn sung between each decade. I found this part a bit of a muddle until I realised that throughout the procession there were people leading the Rosary for that section. It was quite hard to hear and to follow along but I joined in where I could. The procession ended in a garden at the back of the Pilgrims Bureau and after more prayers we left our candles at the foot of a statue of Our Lady and made our way to bed. More pilgrims joined us from other parts of the country on the following day. Some of our group walked again to the Chapel but this time I decided to go there by coach as I would be walking back. After a quick trip to the local farm shop for a sandwich we set off for the Shrine. There was time to shop, light candles and have a coffee as well as confessions before Mass, which was in the open air. The weather remained beautifully warm throughout our stay. It was quite a sight looking at the array of sun hats and umbrellas alongside the officials in their smart hats, fascinators and white gloves! I had heard that it`s quite a dressy occasion and had seen pictures of previous UCM pilgrimages where the ladies `on duty` were dressed as if they were attending a wedding! I did check the dress code before leaving home and was somewhat relieved to know that I didn`t have to `dress up`. The Mass outside was beautiful and Holy Communion so efficiently organised for so many people. We had plenty of time afterwards to eat our picnic lunch and then it was time to line up behind our Diocesan UCM banner. Our Diocese of Clifton was nearly at the back of the silent procession along the Holy Mile to the Abbey Grounds. I loved the peace and quiet of this time when we could hear distance sounds and the birds singing and just be with our thoughts and prayers. It was a tricky business carrying the banner especially when the wind blew so we helped one another by taking turns. Those in the `know` had brought little folding stools to sit on in the Abbey grounds. I sat on the grass and hoped I would be able to get up again! It was a very special time when each Diocese walked forward with their banner and their bidding prayer was read out. After the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament we were sent on our way with a blessing for a safe journey back to all the many places and parishes we had come from. So, what did I bring away with me? A mixture of thoughts and feelings. Gratitude for the many women who have gone before and who had come to Walsingham in their thousands; sadness for the women who remember those days and see the membership dwindling; thanksgiving for the faithfulness of those who return to Walsingham every year, for Middlesbrough, the lead Diocese this year and all the work that entailed and for everyone involved in making the Pilgrimage run so smoothly. I now know that there are two separate shrines and have a little more knowledge about their history. Mass in the beautiful little Church of the Annunciation in the village was very special. I enjoyed the fellowship amongst my fellow pilgrims, the fun and laughter we shared and the devotion I observed. Will I go again? I feel I must. I will be more prepared both practically and spiritually so `here`s to the next time`! Chris Menzies Sacred Heart Foundation

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Page 2 Winter 2018 The Catholic Mother FROM THE NATIONAL P RESIDENT Dear Members The 73rd annual Pilgrimage to Walsingham was a wonderful occasion for us to gather together in that Holy place. We may speak with different accents, have different backgrounds but we are all united in our faith, a powerhouse of prayer and devotion. It is a lovely thought that through our daily Mass scheme everyday somewhere in England members are with us in prayer. The statue of Our Lady of Walsingham accompanied by the Dowry Exhibition has started its journey around England; the first visit was to the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral in June and members of Liverpool UCM attended the farewell Mass. Who was Mary? One definition states, Mary a Galilean Mother with a son called Jesus. Mary’s role was a mother, she was not a goddess, she was a human being. The full details of her life are not revealed in the scriptures. What little we know of her, showed she was a good mother, a good listener, reflective, caring, and thoughtful. If things didn’t go according to plan she was not afraid to speak out. When do we see Mary as a mother? We saw her worried trying to find Jesus when he was lost, finally reunited in the temple. We see her turning to her son for help at the wedding when there was no wine. We see Mary standing close to her humiliated son, to the end. Mary truly is the Mother of all Mothers. A reading taken from one of Pauls many letters to the Romans, talks about how everyone is given a talent and how they use that gift is up to us. Every person is different as is every talent, we are all nervous of the unknown and our favourite saying is ‘don’t ask me, I couldn’t do that job’. If your child said that to you, I am sure that like me you would say, you don’t know what you can do until you try it, the only thing people expect is that you try your best and you might surprise yourself how well you do. Every person tackles a job suitable to their capability. I remember once I was asked to help with the flower display in Church, I said I wasn’t very good but my friend said you will be okay. Five minutes into the task I saw her looking at me, she said would you mind going into the garden to collect some greenery, I agreed, when I came back the floral arrangement had been done. She never criticised me, just directed me to a job I was more capable of doing. (I still can’t do floral arrangements). Think about how you can use one of your many talents to strengthen and develop this organisation and volunteer to become a committee member on the foundation, Diocese or National level. Can you accept this challenge? Finally, I would like to thank the Bishops, Chaplains and clergy for their help, support and time you give to the UCM, it is much appreciated. Thank you to all members for the support you give to your parishes, local charities and each other throughout the year. Margaret McDonald, National President WESTMINSTER Annual Mass Our annual mass was held at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Church. We had a beautiful Mass celebrated by Cardinal Vincent Nichols. At the end of Mass 6 members were presented with certificates of their long term of service. We ended this occasion with Tea, Coffee and cakes. Submitting copy for next issue The deadline for articles and photos for the next edition of the Catholic Mother is Friday 25th January 2019 Please send copy to Margaret Postill, National Media Officer, at catholic.mother@yahoo.co.uk Thank you (GDPR) General Data Protection Regulation Anyone sending photos to be published in The Catholic Mother newspaper, it is your responsibility to make sure you get permission from all in the photos. Dear Catholic Mothers, I would like to thank all those throughout the country who sent messages of condolence and Mass cards on the death of my beloved Monica. We were looking forward so much to our Diamond Wedding Anniversary in September, and her sudden and unexpected death came as a tremendous shock. We were overwhelmed by the tremendous support we received - well over one hundred messages and cards - so much so that it was impossible to thank each one individually. Monica enjoyed her many years with the UCM and we both made countless friends, especially at Walsingham and on the pilgrimages to Oberammergau, the Holy Land, Rome and Assisi. Please keep me and my family in your prayers. Yours sincerely, Laurie Scudder A thank you letter New Westminster president Iona De Souza was elected President of the Archdiocese of Westminster. The meeting was held at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, also congratulations to Brenda Das Neves who became Vice-President. Woman’s World Day of Prayers Hounslow Foundation celebrates the Woman’s World Day of Prayers. Outgoing President Hounslow Foundation thanking the outgoing President Iona De Souza for leadership and commitment for the last 6 years. The members also wish her every success in her new role as the future Diocesan President.

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The Catholic Mother Winter 2018 Page 3 Friday 7th - Sunday 9th September The city of Liverpool and our Archdiocese were alive with many thousands of people from all over England and Wales witnessing to their faith, especially in the Blessed Sacrament. I was very privileged to have been chosen as one of four delegates from my parish (St Joseph`s, Penketh). The Convention Centre and the Echo Arena were the venues. Friday was called the "Adoremus Symposium Day", as different Bishops explored the place that the Eucharistic Adoration has in the Church`s Liturgy. Pope Francis sent his blessing for the Congress, in a letter read by the Apostolic Nuncio for the U.K. The Archbishop of Liverpool, Malcolm McMahon, Cardinal Nichols, many Bishops and priests gave the Hall a great sense that something unique was taking place. There were different stalls to look at, showing the evangelisation that takes place in our town and city streets. The statues of Our Lady of Walsingham and Our Lady of Fatima with a relic were part of the display (it was wonderful to see the statue of Our Lady of Walsingham carried through the streets of Liverpool leading the Eucharistic Procession on Sunday). Also, on Friday afternoon there were workshops giving a choice of nine presentations, from preparing children for the Sacraments, to the Eucharist and Social Justice. Throughout the City churches parallel programmes were taking place for people to take part in. Saturday was the Adoremus Congress Day, reflecting on the centrality of the Eucharist. Bishop Robert Barron from the USA spoke with deep passion on the Holy Mass - "Where Heaven and Earth Meet" he called it. There were also Presentations through Drama and Slides by young people, living out their faith. The day ended with the Evening Prayer of Corpus Christi, Benediction, and a Reflection by Cardinal Nichols. The silence during that time in a hall of 5,000 people was awesome. Sunday`s Closing Mass at the Cathedral and the Eucharistic Procession through the streets in the pouring rain, ending with Benediction outside the cathedral was a wonderful closing to the Adoremus event. Congratulations and thanks to Archbishop Malcolm, Canon O`Brien and his Staff and all who helped to make the Adoremus Congress a wonderful, successful weekend Angela Moore, Archdiocesan Deputy President ADOREMUS - National Eucharistic Congress in Liverpool BIRMINGHAM Father Hudson Appeal Father Hudson has been appealing for baby products to make up packs for mothers in hospital who, are in need of them. The section meeting of the Wolverhampton Section of the Archdiocese of Birmingham was held on 11 July, Here in Birmingham Diocese we are continually amazed by the marvellous members in the St Ambrose Foundation Kidderminster. They have handed over a cheque for £132.00 to Father Hudson charity. This was made up of donations from Tenbury, Kidderminster and the sale of items online from one of our members. Susan Martin Media Officer Teresa Clements with the Section`s President Julie Taylor St Mary & St Modwen`s 80th Birthday On Saturday 30 June the foundation at St Mary & St Modwen Burton upon Trent celebrated its 80th birthday. St Modwen is one of those saints we rarely come upon. Modwen, or Modwenna, was born into an Irish noble family. She and two other nuns founded a church on an island on the river Trent on their way to Rome. They stayed there for seven years, and on their return from Rome founded another church nearby. She died in Scotland, reputedly at the age of 130. Her body was brought back to Burton upon Trent. In his homily St Mary & St Modwen`s parish priest Father Stephen Wright reminded us how the UCM foundation had started in a year, 1938, which was overshadowed by the threat of war. After Mass we had refreshments and were able to look at display boards covered with photos of the Foundation taken over the years, and also old parish magazines, including one for September 1938 Susan Martin Media Officer Women`s Inter-Faith Meeting Back in June our priest at St Peter`s Bloxwich thought it would be a good idea if some of the UCM went to a women`s inter-faith meeting on religion in a secular age, at the Ahmadiyya Mosque in Walsall. So, three of us went along. The mosque is a beautiful new building which had only been officially opened the previous month. We were first told something about the Ahmadiyya sect of Islam. It was started in a small village in India in 1889 and has spread worldwide. Many of the sect`s followers in Walsall come from Pakistan where the sect`s followers suffer serious discrimination. The sect was founded on a desire to create an harmonious society for all people regardless of their nationality, ethnicity or faith. Short addresses were then made by the panel members, representatives from the Islamic, Sikh, Jewish and Christian religions. The audience then asked the panel questions. The consensus was that we all share common problems and should work together more. The most delicious food was served. We were not only impressed by the food but by the number of girls and young women serving us. If only we had so many young women in our churches! Finally, we went upstairs to see the prayer room. We were struck by how plain it was and how it was full of light. The only decoration was some Arabic lettering around the rim of the dome. The women sit behind a screen. We left hoping that further inter-faith women`s meetings will be organised. Susan Martin Media Officer

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Page 4 Winter 2018 The Catholic Mother Congratulations Shrewsbury Diocese Trudie and Barclay PATOIR celebrated 74 years of marriage Sacred Heart &St. Peter Foundation, Wythenshawe BLUE SAPPHIRE CELEBRATIONS Last year, Wallasey couple, Ada (nee Hulse) and Arthur McCourt , celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in Aberdeen, together with their family and friends. Ada was a `young mum` at English Martyrs, Wallasey, Shrewsbury Diocese, in the 1960`s. Salford Diocese John & Joan CONSTABLE. St John’s Chorlton, recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. At a special thanksgiving Mass they were presented with a Papal Blessing. They also received a card from HM the Queen. GOLDEN WEDDING East Anglia Diocese Rev. Bill and Dorothy D IMELOW, Our Lady & St. Walstan’s Foundation, Costessey Mike & Honor GUERIN, Our Lady & St. Walstan’s Foundation, Costessey Leeds Diocese Catherine & Chris SIMPSON St Benedict’s Foundation, Garforth Liverpool Archdiocese Toni and John SIMON Independent Member Dot and John POWELL St Richard`s Foundation, Skelmersdale Cathy and Mike PRICE All Saints Foundation Jennifer and Colin BAXTER St Anne`s Foundation, Ormskirk Portsmouth Diocese Maureen and Jack Meatcher DIAMOND WEDDING Birmingham Diocese Audrey and Ken RUSSON Corpus Christi Foundation, Wolverhampton Salford Diocese Maureen and Jack MAYERS St. Luke’s Foundation, Maureen is a Past National President. Middlesbrough Diocese Sheila and Cyril SWALES St. Mary’s Foundation, Filey 25th ANNIVERSARY Middlesbrough Linda & Derek NAIRN St. Mary’s Foundation Filey 80th Birthday Leeds Olwen PETERS St Ignatius Foundation Ossett Liverpool Val SPIERS St Joseph`s Foundation, Penketh, Barbara STYLES St Margaret Mary`s Foundation Norma HANNAH St Mary`s Foundation, Woolton Heather LUCAS St Margaret Mary`s Foundation Hilda JONES St Margaret Mary`s Foundation Anna BUMFORD St Anne`s Foundation, Ormskirk, Monica GAMBLE St Anne`s Foundation, Ormskirk, Sylvia CROSTON St Anne`s Foundation, Ormskirk, Middlesbrough Diocese Marlene BARKER St Aelred’s Foundation. Salford Diocese Beryl TARPEY Southwark Archdiocese Geraldine Gundry Sutton Foundation 90th BIRTHDAY Leeds Diocese A Papal Blessing was presented to Melody HUNTER English Martyrs Foundation, Wakefield Liverpool Ann OATES St George`s Foundation, Maghull Maureen BIRCH Christ the King Foundation Middlesbrough Diocese Norma BEC KETT Redcar, independent member. Salford Diocese Marie MILNES NEW MEMBERS Tineke Barnes, Our Lady and St. Walstan’s Foundation, Costessey ARUNDEL & BRIGHTON West Grinstead The Diocese held their annual pilgrimage to the Shrine of our Lady of Consolation & St Francis. We were joined by the Knight of St Columba. We all met at around 10.30am for coffee and to catch up with everyone before we went into the Church for a talk given by our Spiritual Advisor Canon Tom Treherne on Pope Francis’ encyclical the call to holiness specifically on chapter 5. Holy Mass followed at noon. We gathered for lunch after Mass. At 2pm we all gathered in the Church for the UCM prayers & Knights prayers, then we split into 2 groups, 1 group went outside to say the Rosary way and the 2nd group stayed in the church for the Rosary, we finished with Benediction. We said goodbye to everyone before heading home at 3.30pm May Leitch Diocesan Media Officer Anne Ager welcomed everyone to our AGM After the Officers reports were read out we went to the Cathedral for Midday Mass celebrated by Canon Tom Treherne. We then returned to the hall for a shared lunch. Our guest speaker was unable to attend so Anne Witham told us about a Rosary she had been given at the Study Day Conference, The Rosary had been made by a disabled UCM member and was unique, it also came with a description of what the beads had been made of. At present Arundel and Brighton have vacancies for Secretary and Treasurer. Judy had been acting as secretary for the last year and as no one came forward she agreed to take on the job for another year. Rosemary Tierney had taken on the role as treasurer in September and agreed to continue till next year. Mrs May Leitch from Hollington Foundation was re-elected as Diocesan Media Officer and Mrs Anne Witham also from Hollington was re-elected as Study/Welfare Officer. Anne closed the meeting with the Hail holy Queen to Our Lady for her help and guidance. May Leitch Diocesan Media Officer EAST ANGLIA DIOCESE Sacred Heart Foundation Dareham, had our informal summer meeting with Afternoon Tea at our Foundation President’s garden early this month, were two members, Anne Nicol and Janice Tinney were photographed for their 80th birthday this year. Anne being an August celebrant was presented with a bouquet of flowers. Two members, Marion Ring-Davies and Veronica Bell, reached 40 years membership and were presented with a certificate each. Myrna Kemp, Media Oficer Sacred Heart Foundation Afternoon Tea

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The Catholic Mother Winter 2018 Page 5 The Eccles Community Choir have just returned from a tour of Germany. Starting in Lunen where we gave our first concert, and also sang in a local church. Accompanied by our German hosts we visited the town of Cappenberg, the castle there once belonged to the Counts of Cappenberg, one of whom Gottfried founded a monastery there and became a monk himself, later known as St Gottfried. The old Abbey Church nearby houses many beautiful sculptors and paintings, most of them of old testament figures Adam & Eve and the Prophets. I was amazed to find one of St Boniface, and on the wall opposite a painting of St Sebastian. As a member of our choir is Head Mistress of St Boniface’s School in Salford and the two Saints are now part of the same parish we certainly didn’t expect to meet them there. On leaving Lunen we travelled to Bruges in Belgium where we gave a concert in the Beautiful Cathedral. This was very well received by a surprising number of tourists and local people. Following a few days in Bruges we then travelled on to the most moving event of the tour. A visit to the Tyne Cot War Memorial Cemetery which with 11956 graves is a very poignant witness to the Battle of Passchendale, reading the frayed and tattered letters on display in the museum and listening to the constantly repeated recording of names, ages, and battalions, is heartbreaking. Amongst the letters was one to a wounded soldier hoping he would enjoy his leave in Llandudno, it made one wonder if he belonged to a Welsh Regiment. From there we carried on to Ypres the site of the Menin Gate where The Last Post is played every evening at the same time, and we were privileged to sing as the wreaths were laid. It was a most special and moving experience shared with the very large number of people gathered there. We sang The Lord Bless You and Keep You followed by Be Still my Soul In spite of the number of people there you could have heard a pin drop. Some moments in time never to be forgotten. Maureen Mayers Choir Visit to Germany 2018 SOUTHWARK 14 Members and Friends of Sutton Foundation spent the morning in Clerkenwell in the company of Kate Boyle (our City of London Guide from Anerley Foundation). She took us to see the Goldsmiths Centre (on the site of an old school) where we were able to view the beautiful exhibition “Made for the Table” which featured hand crafted silver objects, modern glass, ceramics and textiles. We also spent some time in the Museum of the Order of St John. We discovered the origin of the name of the area “the Clerks’ Well” when we saw the actual well and the iron pump which has been preserved for the public to view. We finished off our tour of the area by witnessing a very impressive Flypast by 100 war planes to mark the centenary of the Royal Air Force! Visit To Clerkenwell

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Page 6 Winter 2018 The Catholic Mother HALLAM The Ordination of Father Christopher W. Ainslie took place at St. Marie`s Cathedral, Sheffield on Saturday 14th July 2018. A beautiful setting for the gathering of Christopher`s family, many priests and parishioners in the Diocese. Fr. Ainslie was formally presented by Canon David Oakley to Bishop Ralph Heskett of the Diocese of Hallam for his Consecration. We wish him God`s help and every blessing in his priestly ministry. Dorothy Anderson Media Officer Ordination of Father Christopher W. Ainslie LIVERPOOL “Enrolment of 2 new members, Maureen Byrne and Jan Durkin of St Gregory’s Parish, Lydiate, Liverpool. Also shown, Fr. David Potter and Archdiocesan President Maria Bruns” Two New Members Enrolled At the National Eucharistic Congress, the Union of Catholic Mothers were asked to help to staff exhibitions which were run in tandem with the Congress. Of course, our members took up the challenge with enthusiasm. Two of the exhibitions were held in the Cathedral. One displayed archives and artefacts which were loaned from many areas of the country and from abroad. A heavily embroidered cope made in Italy in the 16th century had been worn by three priests who had amazingly gone on to become Pope. Each of the organisations which had helped with the Congress have been presented with a medal to commemorate the event. The photographs show both sides of the medal which was given to the UCM. Congress Medal PORTSMOUTH I was privileged to be invited, along with two other nominees, to Allen Hall Seminary in Chelsea for the deaconite installation of Ian Cornfield from Petersfield Hampshire. Our foundation, here at Sacred Heart in Waterlooville have followed Ian’s progress with prayer, invitations and donations. This is very much part of our U.C.M. promise to help vocations. Ian had visited us on numerous occasions and his mother, Annie is a long-standing member of U.C.M. and was a frequent visitor to sacred Heart. The Mass which was very moving and inspirational, was celebrated by the Archbishop of Cardiff and assisted by the three deacons and many priests, including Reverend Monsignor Jeremy Garret from Sacred heart, Father O’Flynn from Leigh park in Portsmouth and Father J.P. from Petersfield. Father John Thomas from Wonesh seminary, and a frequent visitor to us came with Reverend Monsignor Jeremy. Ian’s parents, sister and nephews and Petersfield friends attended and I met several of the 41 seminarians and old friends of Ian’s. After Mass, there was a wonderful barbeque in the garden and drinks were served. It was a beautiful day. Ian is now assisting at Maidenhead’s three churches and of course, still keeping in touch with us. We look forward to his ordination to the priesthood at St John’s cathedral in Portsmouth in the summer of 2019. And I do hope some U.C.M. members from surrounding foundations will be there. In the meantime, prayer is essential and we know we shall meet up with him in the meantime. Jean Hartnell Sacred Heart Foundation, president. Allen Hall Seminary Invitation

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The Catholic Mother Winter 2018 Page 7 Extraordinary General Meeting, St Chads, Birmingham, Saturday October 13th 2018. CWOY Luncheon – London 9th November 2018, tickets £52.00 each. National Study Days – The Hayes, Swanwick, 20 - 22nd March 2019, Hallam to host. National Council and AGM – The Hayes, Swanwick, 13 – 15th May 2019, Clifton to host Walsingham Pilgrimage, Monday 1 July and Tuesday 2 July 2019. DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Pope Francis has appointed Bishop Paul Mason as eighth Bishop of the Forces, which has been sede vacante (awaiting the appointment of a bishop) for the past three years. Bishop Paul Mason said: “On the 25th of July, I will have been a priest of the Archdiocese of Southwark for 20 years. During that time, I have been blessed with happiness in all of my assignments, none more so than the past four and a half years in Kent, half of that time as area bishop. Although sad to be leaving my adoptive diocese, the new role the Holy Father has asked me to take on as Bishop of the Forces is one I accept with much enthusiasm. Supporting the men and women of the British Armed Forces, and their families, is a very important apostolate in the life of the Church and one which I will be doing my best to pass muster. The network of chaplains across all three services do valiant work and I look forward to meeting them and working with them in the years ahead.” Fr Michael Fava, Apostolic Administrator of the Bishopric of the Forces, said: “It is with great joy and thanksgiving that the Bishopric of the Forces’ community welcomes the news of the appointment of our new Bishop Paul Mason, after a period of sede vacante of over three years. Catholic Forces’ personnel and their families around the world and their chaplains in all three Services look forward to the guidance and leadership that Bishop Paul will offer us and will do all we can to acquaint him quickly with our unique corner of the Church with its many joys and challenges. Together we look forward to furthering the church’s mission of new evangelisation as we strive to work in the cause of peace. As Apostolic Administrator of the Bishopric, I can assure Bishop Paul of the wholehearted support and prayers of the chaplains and faithful alike as we look to an exciting new era in the Forces’ Bishopric history.” The Roman Catholic Bishopric of the Forces differs from any other diocese in that it is not aligned along geographical boundaries but encompasses anywhere in the world that United Kingdom military personnel are serving or deployed. The Bishopric strives to provide the very best operational, spiritual and pastoral support, primarily for Catholic servicemen and women, their families and chaplains, wherever, whenever and in whatever form is needed, and additionally to respond to the Bishopric of the Forces needs of anyone of any creed or none who turns to a Catholic Chaplain for support. Chaplains of all three Armed Services serve on operations, where their pastoral care and Sacramental ministry bring hope and consolation in the most challenging of circumstances. Their presence in training establishments and in the myriad of other services contexts is vital to personnel and their family members alike. A Principal Roman Catholic Chaplain is present in each of the three services. Currently, there are seven chaplains serving in Royal Navy and two chaplains in the Royal Air Force. The Army is served by 17 regular chaplains, two military support chaplains, an officiating chaplain to the military, five TA chaplains and five ACF chaplains. The Cathedral Church of St Michael and St George is situated in Aldershot, as are the Bishopric Offices, where the Sacramental records for all Armed Service personnel and their families are held. Further information can be found on the Bishopric website: rcbishopricforces.org.uk

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Page 8 Winter 2018 The Catholic Mother Yet another wonderful pilgrimage with perfect weather – our prayers were certainly answered. I am sure we all took home our own beautiful memories of two wonderful days spent together with friends and UCM members and, of course, in the presence of Our Lady of Walsingham. We shared a wonderful Mass, two lovely processions, a truly delightful Service of the Sick and finally Benediction in the Abbey grounds. Our special thanks go to our Spiritual Adviser, Bishop Alan Williams and to Bishop Terence Drainey, Fr Philip Cunnah and Fr Bill Serplus from the Diocese of Middlesbrough for leading our pilgrimage and to all the Clergy for joining us too. Prior to the pilgrimage 612 bookings were received and of these 131 had purchased Mobility coach tickets. We were joined by further pilgrims on the day. As always, our pilgrimage began on the Monday evening in the Chapel of Reconciliation with the `Service of Light` which began with the arrival of the Statue of Our Lady of Walsingham carried in by National and Sub Committee officers. The Statue had earlier been decorated by members of the Diocese of Middlesbrough. Following the Service our Blessed Candle was carried in procession to the Slipper Chapel by our new National President, Mrs Margaret McDonald, National Officers and Diocesan Presidents, where it remained alight for the duration of our pilgrimage. It was from this Candle that all the candles being carried in the torchlight procession were lit. The torchlight procession then commenced along the Pilgrim Way during which the Joyful and Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary were recited and two very appropriate hymns `I`ll Sing a Hymn to Mary` and `O Purest of Creatures` were sung. The procession ended in the Prayer Garden at the Pilgrim Bureau where prayers were said by candlelight by Bishop Alan and Bishop Terence – a moving finale to our first day. Our final day began with the Statue of Our Lady of Walsingham being carried to the Altar steps by members of the Walsingham Sub Committee and the lead Diocesan President. Bishop Alan, Bishop Terence and 26 clergy, assisted by one Deacon and two Altar servers from our members` families, concelebrated Mass in the Shrine grounds. What an inspiring Mass which Bishop Alan offered for Brian Parsons who had sadly passed away earlier that day. Following Mass, a packed lunch was then enjoyed and, of course, the usual catching up with fellow members and friends; before long it was time for the Abbey Link mobility coaches to depart from the Shrine and make their way to the Abbey grounds in readiness for their Service of the Sick and Anointing which was led this year by Fr Bill Serplus, assisted by four other priests. We then began to prepare for our procession along the Holy Mile to the Abbey grounds led by Bishop Alan, Bishop Terence, Clergy and our National Officers. Again, it was a silent procession which gave us much time for thought on our theme this year `Preparing for the Dowry Rededication: This is your Mother`. In conjunction with our procession, the Service of the Sick began in the Abbey grounds, so again although apart, we were all united together in our thoughts and prayers. Our arrival at the Abbey signalled the final part of our pilgrimage. We were welcomed by our two new National Vice Presidents, Maureen Woodward and Cath Rutherford, who announced the various Diocesan representatives and read their Petitions. The procession of the Clergy, National Officers and the Statue of Our Lady of Walsingham followed and our Service commenced with `Lady of Walsingham, Lady of England` after which our National President, Margaret McDonald, led us in The UCM prayer followed by her first Address as National President - Margaret said that each and every one of us has gifts and talents and she instilled in us the importance of using them - Margaret`s full Address appears elsewhere in this edition. Benediction followed led by Bishop Terence who gave a thought provoking homily. The service concluded with a rousing hymn `Sing it in the Valleys` after which we all said our farewells and thanked Our Lady of Walsingham for a wonderful time spent together in fun, friendship and most importantly faith and prayer. We thank the Diocese of Middlesbrough for all their hard work and for looking after everyone during the pilgrimage. We also thank Mgr John Armitage, all the Shrine and Pilgrim Bureau staff who work tirelessly with us throughout the year, the Kings Lynn KSC and the Norfolk Constabulary without whose help and guidance our pilgrimage could not take place. Our grateful thanks too to all our wonderful stewards who help us on the day, not forgetting the UCM members who sing in the choir – this year we only had five members join, please do consider joining them next year – we are sure you would find it rewarding and a great privilege. Please get in touch with us if you would like more information. A number of members have enquired about Anne Parsons whose husband Brian had passed away on the morning of our pilgrimage. She is coping well and has asked us to convey her grateful thanks to everyone who showed great concern and cared for her and her daughter Catherine, particularly the members from the Clifton Diocese. Anne was not a UCM member but had attended Walsingham pilgrimages for a number of years but we are delighted to say that Anne and Catherine will be enrolled as members of The UCM in Clifton Cathedral on Saturday 8 December. Please remember Anne and Catherine in your prayers and we wish them both many happy years in the UCM. Going forward we have already begun preparations for our 74th annual pilgrimage in 2019. The lead Diocese will be Northampton who will, hopefully, be led by their Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Bishop Peter Doyle. A reminder that all beds in the Pilgrim Bureau must be booked through the lead Diocesan President, Mrs Jenny Hyde, and her co-ordinator, Mrs Sam Canning. Booking form - Due to changes in publication dates for The Catholic Mother we will only have `two bytes of the cherry` regarding publishing the form. It is appearing in this issue and will also appear in the Spring issue due out in February 2019. It will also appear on the Web site. The entrance fee will remain at £8.00. As announced in the Summer issue, I would ask you to join me in welcoming the three new members to the WSC – Angie Higginson as Treasurer and Mary Piper and Marie Harvey as Committee members. Finally, and most importantly, thank you all for being at Walsingham and sharing such a special occasion. We look forward to welcoming you again next year. God Bless Maureen, Angie, Mary and Marie Walsingham Sub Committee Walsingham Whispers 73rd ANNUAL WALSINGHAM PILGRIMAGE - 2018

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The Catholic Mother Winter 2018 Page 9 Franciscan friars return to Walsingham Franciscan friars have returned to England’s national Marian shrine for the first time since the Reformation. Three Greyfriars – members of the Franciscan Order of Friars Minor – arrived at the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham in June. Fr James Mary McInerney, the guardian of the community, said: “It’s a great joy for us. We feel we’ve come home.” He and two other Franciscan priests will welcome pilgrims, hear Confessions and oversee a daily Holy Hour, as well as assist in the work of the shrine in whatever way is needed. Franciscans first came to Walsingham in the 14th century. They ministered there for 201 years, looking after lepers and giving poor pilgrims a place to stay. During that time the shrine became one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in Europe, but in 1538 it was dissolved. The Holy House was burned to the ground and the priory attached to it was left in ruins. The site has never been restored and the present- day Catholic shrine is at the 14th-century Slipper Chapel, the final “station” chapel for medieval pilgrims a mile away from the priory ruins. Fr James Mary said he and other friars had been moved by their visits to Walsingham in recent years and had longed to return. “People would see us and say: ‘When are you coming back?’ “You can imagine what went through our hearts when we saw the ruins,” he said. “We prayed about [returning] and we longed for it.” Fr James Mary made clear their desire to Mgr John Armitage, the rector, who then offered them a property where they could live. The chapter of the Greyfriars in Great Britain and Ireland later met and voted almost unanimously to start a new foundation at Walsingham. The new community comes amid a sharp rise in vocations among Greyfriars in Britain and Ireland. Before 2008 there had been a 20-year vocations drought. Since then, 14 men have joined the order. One of the characteristics of the new members, said Fr James Mary, was a strong devotion to Mary and to the Blessed Eucharist. “Because we love Our Lady so much it is natural for us to work at a Marian shrine,” said Fr James Mary. The first Franciscans came to England in 1224. St Francis himself ordered the mission and appointed the friar to lead it, Blessed Agnellus of Pisa. Nine men disembarked on the coast of Kent and within weeks had set up friaries in Canterbury, London and Oxford. To advertise please contact Caroline Gonella at CathCom on 07931 836926 or 01440 730399 or email carolineg@cathcom.org

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Page 10 Winter 2018 The Catholic Mother MIDDLESBROUGH In May St. Aelred’s UCM visited Holy Trinity, Micklegate York. We were given a short talk on the History of the Church by Professor Bill Sheils. Holy Trinity Church which is just within the city walls was a French and then a Benedictine Priory before the reformation. The monks came to York from France in the 11th century and built a large monastic complex with a fine priory, with the church at its heart. We saw the exhibition on the stained glass and architectural features of the church. A famous book a ‘Bestiary’ was on display behind glass. A ‘Bestiary’ is a collection of short stories and descriptions of animals, some real, some imaginary. Each of the chapters usually draws a moral or religious lesson from the character and habits of an animal. Some of the animal lore was not at all religious though there was often a moral message. This had been written by the Monks of Holy Trinity in the 13th Century. This still survives and is one of the treasures in the library of St. John’s College Oxford. Following the tour, we went to the Bar Convent for tea. Sister Anne & Sister Mary joined us, and we learnt that the first 25nuns who had died at the convent after its founding in the 17th century were buried in the churchyard of Holy Trinity through the good will of the Anglican Clergy. Burials of Catholics had to take place at night in those days as non-conformists were still frowned upon if not actual illegal. Recently when Holy Trinity was being repaired their parishioners were invited to use the Bar Convent Chapel for their services. Following tea, we visited the Chapel and offered the Rosary for all UCM members. Kath Stubbs St. Aelred’s UCM Visit to Holy Trinity Church York Alice Burns of Haxby, York was proud to celebrate her 60 years as a member of the UCM with a spiritual day at Stanbrook Abbey with her friends from St Margaret Clitherow’s Parish. Alice was enrolled into the Mothers on 2nd Feb 1958 after joining in November 1957 whilst a young Mum in the parish of St Joseph’s, Pontefract. She continued to be a member in Haxby until the group disbanded in April of this year due to transport difficulties. Diamond Jubilee Congratulations To Alice St. Aelred’s Union of Catholic Mothers held a successful fund-raising day at St. Crux Church in the centre of York. This being to help with the work we do in the parish and for the donations for the charities which we support during the year. Gazebo’s, tables for stalls were in place by 8.30 by a team of willing helpers. Stalls were filled with Plants, Books, Cakes, Jewellery and then we served tea, coffee, lunches etc from 10.00am – 4. OO pm. We had an enjoyable and worthwhile day raising £870. The weather certainly helped, encouraging more visitors into the city centre. The help we received from parishioners and their families certainly contributed to make it a great day. Kath Stubbs St. Aelred’s York Fund-raising St. Mary’s Foundation, Filey welcomed members from the various foundations in the Diocese. During the Mass Concelebrated by Fr. Andrew Smith O Praem and Fr. Bill Serplus Spiritual advisor to the UCM. Barbara Dawson was enrolled as a new member and others present were invited to renew their commitment to the UCM. Following an excellent lunch provided by the members of the foundation in Filey. The Diocesan President Mrs Jean Rigg welcomed everyone to the meeting and prayers were offered for Sick Members and their families and for the children and parents who have been separated at the US-Mexico border. The President gave a comprehensive report of the National Council. Rose Cartledge gave an excellent report of the Study Days and other meetings which she had attended. This being followed by reports from the other officers. Then came what could have been a difficult part of the meeting Election of New Officers. Secretary and Treasurer as the present officers had completed their 5yrs term of office. Prior to the meeting in the homily we were remined of ‘Do as He tells you’ which we had heard many times this year in Lourdes. We had a nomination for Secretary Mrs Sarah Sheils and Treasurer Mrs Barbara Cookson both from St. Aelred’s Foundation. Margaret Finn from Holy Name foundation had agreed prior to the meeting to be nominated as the Justice & Peace Officer. They were all duly elected. The President presented gifts to the retiring officers. The next event for the UCM the National Pilgrimage to Walsingham on the 2nd / 3rd July The Pilgrimage this year is being led by the Middlesbrough Diocese and we are to be joined by Bishop T. Drainey and several of the Diocesan Clergy. Kath Stubbs Media Officer Union of Catholic Mothers AGM

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The Catholic Mother Winter 2018 Page 11 Bishop Terence Drainey, is pleased to announce that the vacancy for the Director of the National Office for Vocation is to be filled by Fr Darren Carden, a priest of the Diocese of Lancaster currently working in the Archdiocese of Liverpool. Bishop Terry said about this appointment, “As the Chair of the National Office for Vocation, I am delighted that Father Darren Carden of the Diocese of Lancaster has been appointed as the Director of NOV. I have worked with him over the years in the sphere of Vocations and look forward very much to continuing this innovative work into the future.” Fr Darren commented on his appointment: “I am honoured to be asked to be the new Director of the National Office for Vocation. Over recent years I have worked closely with the current team as a member of the NOV Advisory Board and also in my previous role as the president of the Vocations Directors of England and Wales. I am keen to build on the solid foundations already established in continuing to work towards creating a stronger culture of vocation in our church.” Fr Darren was born in Liverpool in 1971 and after an initial career as a funeral director, followed his call to the priesthood. He studied in the Beda College in Rome and was ordained in October 2011 for the Diocese of Lancaster. During his priestly ministry, he has had a strong commitment to the work of vocation promotion and discernment, especially through his role as a Diocesan Vocation Director for Lancaster, and as the President of the Conference of Diocesan Directors of Vocations. He has always been rooted in parish ministry during his priesthood and will continue his role as Parish Priest St Paul and St Timothy West Derby Liverpool as well as his work in London for NOV. Catholic Communications Network New Director of the National Office for Vocation LEEDS UCM had a wonderful day in Walsingham. The sun didn’t stop shining and we didn’t stop smiling, as you can see in the photo, taken as we assembled by the Slipper Chapel before the procession. We enjoyed the slight breeze as we walked the Holy Mile as the day was very warm. We arrived back in Leeds just in time to see the end of the England football match which we won. A happy end to our Pilgrimage. Eileen Goodwin Media Officer A day in Walsingham UCM members on the annual Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes. Leeds Diocese Bishop is Marcus Stock. Pilgrimage to Lourdes Margaret Chambers was elected as new Leeds Diocesan President at the Quarterly Meeting on Saturday 8th September. We offer Margaret all our very best wishes and prayers. May the Holy Spirit guide her in her work. Susan Oldroyd New Leeds President

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Page 12 Winter 2018 The Catholic Mother NOTTINGHAM Nottingham Diocese held their Annual General Meeting, which was hosted by Holy Spirit Foundation, West Bridgford. After the meeting we all attended Mass which was concelebrated by the Rt. Rev. Patrick McKinney, Bishop of Nottingham and Fr Michael Brown, Parish Priest at Holy Spirit. After Mass we were joined by Bishop Patrick and Fr. Michael in the parish Social Centre for a very enjoyable shared table lunch. When lunch was over we welcomed Maggie Mairura, who gave us a very interesting talk about her work with CAFOD. Kathy Gelling, Media officer Holy Spirit Garden Party The U.C.M. of South Wigston were treated to a talk and demonstration of C.P.R. (Cardiac Pulmonary Resuscitation) by retired Consultant Cardiologist, Mike Ferguson. Mike used a state-of-the-art model to demonstrate, allowing members to practice. This was in aid of the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust. It was very informative for all members and their guests. Kathy Gelling, Media Office C.P.R. Demonstration St. Mary`s, Loughborough, U.C.M. enrolled Jane Faulks into their Foundation. A Mass was celebrated by their Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Paul Gillham and was attended by Diocesan President, Monica Mitchell, and nine U.C.M. members. Foundation President, Dorothy Hutchings, organised a buffet and liquid refreshments to round off the evening." Kathy Gelling, Media Officer St. Mary`s, Loughborough, U.C.M. enrolment Holy Spirit Foundation chose a Garden Party for their last meeting before their summer break. This was held at the home of their President, Bernadette Turner, and everyone enjoyed the sunshine, lots of cake and drinks". Kathy Gelling, Media Office Nottingham AGM L to R Bishop Patrick, Nottingham Diocesan President, Monica Mitchell, Fr. Michael PORTSMOUTH Despite it having been the ‘summer break’ members of St Colman’s U.C.M. Cosham have been quite busy. We had the Flower Festival, then an afternoon was spent replenishing the prayer bags which we fill with religious themed books, pictures and drawing books and pencils. These bags keep the little ones occupied at Mass on a Sunday morning. Each season we change the theme of the contents and so now the Christmas drawing cards have replaced the Easter themed cards. Quite a few items find their way out of the bags, hidden in hot little hands. It is an ongoing task to keep the bags filled. In August, eight of our members travelled to Ladywell convent near Godalming in Surrey for a day of rest and prayer. We were welcomed by the resident Franciscan sisters with coffee and biscuits before we settled down to listen to our speaker for the day, Father Anthony Meredith. And what an uplifting talk he gave us based on his own life experience. Aged 74, he was delighted to still be working and was ready to move on to a seminary where he would be mentoring young men who felt they had a calling to the priesthood but would have many doubts during their initial training. He had many amusing tales to tell us about his own life including an incident which had taken place that week between himself and a lady driver on a narrow country lane. On noticing his white collar, she made a rude gesture and he told us how he had to deal with his own anger. He had his audience very entertained before he celebrated mass in the delightful little chapel. Then it was lunchtime, lovely home cooked food followed by homemade rhubarb crumble topped with clotted cream. After lunch we had another talk, followed by confession for those who so desired. For others, it was a slow amble around the peaceful garden. Tea and homemade scones and cream were served before we parted at 4 pm. It was a day of retreat interspersed with lots of treats in which our spirituality was refreshed and our bodies replenished. Elizabeth Christian Diocesan Media Officer Summer Retreat

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The Catholic Mother Winter 2018 Page 13 The National Catholic Safeguarding Commission ( NCSC) is an independent body working within the framework of the Catholic Church in England and Wales. It is mandated by the Conference of Bishops and Conference of Religious Congregations and has accountability across Dioceses and Religious Congregations to ensure that standards are met and policies are implemented. Established in 2008 the NCSC sets the strategic direction of the Church’s safeguarding policy for children and vulnerable adults. It also monitors and audits the compliance of the Church with safeguarding procedures. The NCSC has sixteen members who bring together a wide range of knowledge, skill and expertise in safeguarding matters, and in state and canon law. The National Catholic Safeguarding Commission has, published its Annual Report for 2017. The Chair of the National Catholic Safeguarding Commission, Chris Pearson: "Safeguarding is everyone’s business and it is not just a procedural process or duty. It must be at the centre of the Church’s mission that sees in action that victims and survivors of abuse are at the heart of what we do. This report highlights in full the work of the Commission and this announcement is just a snapshot of some of that work and findings over the last year. As a result, we are moving towards a much more consistent and sensitive approach in response to the victims and survivors of abuse." National Pastoral Support Service This aims to enable survivors to contact the church in a way that makes it easier for them when they might otherwise find it difficult to do so. The scheme is progressing and tenders will be prepared for submission to Bishops of England and Wales later in the year. The Survivors Advisory Panel Has contributed to the development of policies and practice, and their input ensures that we keep survivors of abuse at the very heart of what we aim to do. DBS Applications During 2016 CSAS and its agents across Dioceses and Religious Congregations processed 14,909 DBS disclosure applications in England and Wales. This is a 16% increase on the number processed in 2015, and ensures that church recruitment processes follow National Guidelines. The NCSC sets and directs the work of the Catholic Safeguarding Advisory Service(CSAS) which was established to drive forward improvement in practice. Its primary role is one of co-ordination, advice and support in respect of the wider job of safeguarding children, young people and adults at risk. The work of safeguarding people needs to become part of the fabric of the mission of the Church and as such the NCSC is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the Church’s Safeguarding policy for Children and Vulnerable adults, and for monitoring compliance. It is mandated by the CBCEW and the CoR to ensure that standards are met and policies implemented. It does so in the spirit of the Church’s call to “act justly, love tenderly and walk humbly with God (Micah 6.8). Brigid Hegarty National Welfare Officer National Catholic Safeguarding Commission ( NCSC) SOUTHWARK 25th Anniversary At Carshalton Carshalton celebrated their 25th Anniversary with a Mass concelebrated by Fr Paul Sanders, Fr Luke Verhees and Fr Robert Sugg. This was a very joyous occasion, attended by members of the Diocesan Committee and foundations from Wallington, Sutton, South Croydon and Selsdon and Holy Cross parishioners. A framed 25 Year Certificate was presented by Mary Burt, the Diocesan President and three new members were enrolled into the UCM. After the buffet and speeches, the celebration cake was cut and shared. Guests departed with a commemorative bookmark of the occasion. Susan Theobald, Carshalton UCM 60th Celeberations The smaller of our two churches on Sheppey, church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, celebrated its 60th anniversary. A celebration was planned and naturally the UCM was heavily involved! Particularly apt as our Foundation hold their meetings there after evening Mass. Bishop Paul Mason was invited and agreed to our request to celebrate Mass there. It turned into a double celebration as it was Bishop Paul’s second anniversary of his Episcopal Ordination. Canon Frank Moran, our Parish Priest, had also invited all the clergy who had previously served in our Parish. Many of them did manage to come, and we were delighted to meet our previous pastors, although all looked older and we had to remind ourselves that they undoubtedly thought we all looked older too! Space was at a premium on the altar, as well as in the church, where parishioners from both churches came to attend the celebration. Including, of course, the Canon’s dog, Scamp, who normally lived up to his name, but who was on his best behaviour for the day. Some of the children of the parish joined the Offertory procession carrying drawings they had made which they offered to the Bishop. Mass was followed by refreshments supplied by the UCM members, and of their usual high standard. A celebration cake was made by the parish cake maker, Cheryl Crane, and showed a replica of the church itself, and the garden around it. Very apt as the weather was kind to us, and we had tables and chairs set up outside. Bishop Paul cut the cake for us before he left, and all agreed it had been a very successful day. Mary van Dyke, Media Officer Sheppey Foundation Summer BBQ Sutton Foundation ended another enjoyable Summer Programme with a BBQ in the garden of one of our Members. This coincided with the arrival of the latest edition of the Catholic Mother. We all enjoyed catching up on all the features and photos of the Southwark Diocese and the National news. We enjoyed two celebrations this year. In April our Diocesan President, Mary Burt, presented Lucy Smallwood with her 50 years membership certificate. Esme Mills with a papal blessing from Pope Francis and birthday card from Her Majesty, the Queen, to mark her 100th birthday. UCM members arranged a pre-birthday party at which our President, Rosemary Butcher, presented Esme with a flowering orchid. Many of Esme’s friends from outside the UCM were there along with Deacon Al Callan and his wife Trudie. At the end of the evening the Deacon gave Esme a special blessing. A former music teacher and organist she has generously used her talents to enhance the liturgy and encourage young and old to develop their musical skills. She still works as a volunteer in a local Princess Alice Hospice shop. Esme attends our UCM meetings regularly and is a much-loved member of Tolworth Foundation. Our President Rosemary Butcher congratulated her and wished her many more years as a UCM member. Double Celebration

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Page 14 Winter 2018 The Catholic Mother 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 To advertise please contact Caroline Gonella at CathCom on 07931 836926 or 01440 730399 or email carolineg@cathcom.org The white rose of Yorkshire will find a special place in the red rose county of Lancashire with a beautiful new piece of stained glass, commissioned for Theodore House at the Christian Heritage centre at Stonyhurst, which tells the story of York’s great martyr, St. Margaret Clitherow. The Jesuit poet, Gerard Manley Hopkins SJ was deeply touched by the story of ‘the Pearl of York’ and left an unfinished poem dedicated to ‘Gods daughter Margaret Clitherow’ paying tribute to her faith and courage in the face of a cruel death. The new stained glass depicts St Margaret holding an unopened bud of a white rose, representing Margaret’s unborn child, crushed to death with her. It also depicts the Shambles in York, where Margaret lived, and Stydd chapel, near Ribchester, where many believe she was laid to rest in an ancient chapel. The trustees of the Christian Heritage Centre charity hope this beautiful commission will inspire visitors to celebrate the lives of mothers and their unborn children – particularly in a country where one baby in the womb is aborted every three minutes, 20 every hour, 600 every day. On many levels, St Margaret’s story speaks powerfully into our own times. Her practical support and hospitality towards outlawed priests; the tolerance practiced within her own family; her spirituality, courage and fortitude act as a stirring rebuke to our half- heartedness. Canonised in 1970 by Pope Paul VI, Margaret was crushed to death – peine forte et dure – in York, on Good Friday, 25th March 1586, for harbouring Fr Francis Ingleby, a Catholic priest. The York assizes had ordered her to be stripped naked; to be laid on a sharp rock; and for an immense weight of stones and rocks to be placed on a door. This was placed on top of her, crushing the life from her body. After an earlier arrest, her third child, William, had been born in prison. Now pregnant with her fourth child, and aged 30, she was executed on Lady Day. Her body was thrown on a dung heap. Her last words had been “Jesu, Jesu, Jesu, have mercy on me.” The story has it that six weeks later a group of Catholics recovered the body, embalmed it, and had it taken to a secret place. Margaret’s right hand was removed from her body and is today kept at York’s Bar Convent. The location of her grave is an unsolved mystery. The nearby chapel of St Saviour, and a structure dated to the mid-12th century – and beautifully restored by its Anglican guardians – that holds the clues to the possible whereabouts of St Margaret. Legend has it that Margaret’s posthumous journey to Stydd began when Fr Francis Ingleby, the priest she took into her home, arranged for her body to be taken west to a relative. Ingleby was related to the Catholic Hawksworth family of Mitton, near Ribchester. Missionary activity in the area was centred on Bailey Hall, in the parish of Mitton and it is believed that Margaret’s body was first taken to Bailey Hall. But in 1716, after the Catholic Shireburn family supported Bonnie Prince Charlie, the Hall was forfeit and to ensure that the body was not desecrated it is said to have been removed to Stydd. In 1915 some students from Stonyhurst College excavated the ruins of a burial crypt next to the Hall and found the mausoleum empty. Yorkshire’s Catholic Vavasour family have an oral tradition that Margaret “was taken a horse’s journey at night and was buried; there she will remain until the Church is restored to its own.” That Catholics held Stydd to be especially holy ground is borne out by the request of Fr Sir Walter Vavasour – a Jesuit whose missionary work was based at Bailey Hall, and who died in 1789 – to be buried there. Two other Catholic priests – Fr Charles Ingolby and Fr Richard Walmsley – made the same request. More intriguing still is the white marble gravestone of Bishop Francis Petre. It must be unique for a Catholic bishop – and Apostolic Vicar at that – to request burial in what had become an Anglican chapel. The Latin inscription on his tomb translates as follows: ‘Here lies the most Illustrious and Reverend Lord Francis Petre, Of Fithlars, of an illustrious and ancient family in the county of Essex, Bishop of Amoria and Vicar Apostolic of the Northern District; which he governed with discernment and care for 24 years, being its patron and ornament by his kind acts and apostolic virtues; then full of days and good deeds, after bestowing many alms, he died in the Lord on the 24th December of the year 1775, aged 84.’ The other interesting gravestone, dating from 1350, has a lovely floriated design and buried here are the Knight Sir Adam de Cliderow and his wife, Lady Alice Cliderow. Next to Bishop Petre’s grave is a simple cross and it is believed by many that this is where Margaret Clitherow lies. But, regardless of whether this is her final resting place, the Trustees of the Christian Heritage Centre believe her life and death should inspire us today. Hers is the story of a courageous woman whose family had to make sense of the religious conflicts of the day. A Catholic convert, and married to John, an Anglican, who lovingly stood by her throughout her ordeals. She became renowned for her personal holiness, gaining her strength by praying daily for an hour- and-a half and fasting four times each week. Her story reminds us of the Christians who suffer persecution, death, and torture on a daily basis all over the world; it speaks about the need to respect difference. It recalls the wanton destruction of innocent unborn life. On arrest, Margaret refused to plead – since a plea would incriminate her family and her servants and she said that she wished to spare the jury’s conscience. She knew that the penalty for refusing to enter a plea was death by crushing. Her only statement was “Having made no offence, I need no trial.” This, then is a story about conscience. The new window, and a room, in Theodore House commemorating Margaret Clitherow will be a fitting tribute to a great northern woman. Visitors to The Christian Heritage Centre will take her story to their hearts. Stained Glass Window Pope Francis has chosen the date for the ceremony that will see the Catholic Church officially recognise the sainthood of Pope Paul VI and Oscar Romero, Archbishop of San Salvador, who was martyred as he was celebrating Mass: They will be canonized on Oct. 14, 2018. The canonisations will take place during the 2018 Synod of Bishops on the topic of young people, the faith and vocational discernment, which is set to take place Oct. 3- 28, 2018. Saturday 3 November National Mass of Thanksgiving for the Canonisation of Oscar Romero at St George`s Cathedral Southwark, 12:30 pm; Principal Celebrant - Archbishop Peter Smith; Homily - Archbishop Bernard Longley. (For your information - there is no indication on the website that this is ticket only). Saturday 17 November Solemn Evensong of Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey at 3:00 pm; Cardinal Nichols will give the Address; ticket only Cannonisation

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The Catholic Mother Winter 2018 Page 15 OBITUA RIES Anne BYRNE, Past Southwark Officer, she was also the Treasurer of the then Southern Rest Homes and relinquished that position in the early 80’s to Anne Lambkin (Portsmouth) when she took over as Treasurer of the Walsingham Committee. Later she was Chair/Coordinator of the Walsingham Committee and after that she could be found in the Shrine shop. We understand that her funeral will be in Walsingham – for a time she lived at Wells next the Sea. ARUNDEL & BRIGHTON Mrs Elilish PRINCE, Hayward Heath Foundation BIRMINGHAM Cathy ROCKEY, St Maria Goretti Foundation HALLAM John SIMMS husband of Betty, Christ the King Foundation, Rossington John MARTIN husband of Aileen, Christ the King Foundation, Rossington Terry HOBSON husband of Pat, Holyrood Foundation, Barnsley. LIVERPOOL Vera YOUNG St Gregory`s Foundation, Lydiate Marie SLATER Blessed Sacrament Foundation Mary RILEY St Clare`s Foundation Margaret (Peggy) HALL Founder Member of St Gregory`s Foundation, Lydiate Win EHLAN St Margaret Mary`s Foundation Pauline C UNNINGHAM Friend`s Circle, St Thomas of Canterbury Foundation Elizabeth (Betty) CURRAN St Gregory`s Foundation, Lydiate, Win KEHOE St Anne’s Foundation Ormskirk, Monica HOBAN St George`s Foundation, Maghull, SALFORD Jean EA RNSHAW past Foundation President. St Edmunds Foundation, Little Hulton. Margaret WALTON Guardian Angels Foundation, Bury. Bernadette MARSH St Hilda`s Foundation SHREWSBURY Mrs Elizabeth (Betty) BLACKLEDGE Sacred Heart & St. Peter Foundation, Wythenshawe SOUTHWARK Christine ALFLATT Sutton Foundation Bridget Josephine (Josie) MALONEY Sutton Foundation Mary GRADY Isle Of Sheppey Foundation, Kent Ken BURT husband of Mary Southwark Archdiocesan President. Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord 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 UCM101 Anne Lambkin 1936 - 2017 It was with terrible shock and much sadness that the news of Anne Lambkin’s sudden death spread throughout the Portsmouth Diocese. She had not been ill and was indeed looking forward to a river cruise with her close friend Pat Durrant. Anne died on 15th October and there was such a turnout for her funeral which took place at St Swithun’s church, Yateley on 9th November2017. In a spontaneous gesture, sixty U.C.M. Members formed a guard of honour as Anne was carried out of the church. It was a moving tribute to a woman who had given so much of her life to U.C.M. Anne was born in November 1936 into a staunch catholic family and was convent educated in Hertfordshire. She married John, a fellow catholic in 1957. They moved to Yateley in Hampshire and adopted three children, two of whom have married, one daughter living in Australia and who Anne used to visit regularly, even after John died in 2011. They had four grandchildren. In 1972 Anne became the Founder President of the Union of Catholic Mothers in Yateley, which is still going strong. Anne also stepped in and replaced Irene Mitchell as Diocesan Secretary when Irene became National Secretary. A few years later she took on the role of East Berks Area Chairman and then Portsmouth Diocese President.. Her mentor during her early UCM days was Margaret Clarke RIP, former National President. It was Margaret who encouraged Anne to take responsibility at National level for Treasurership of the Southern Rest Homes (as it was then known). She followed this by becoming Chairman of the group and then when the two Rest Homes Services (North and South) were amalgamated she became the first Co- ordinator for the group – The National Holiday & Rest Home Service – UCM’s only charity. During this time Anne was a member of the Diocesan Council, and was responsible for organising School Appeal tribunals in the north of the diocese. Anne then became the Catholic Representative on the Ecumenical Forum for European Women. She was also instrumental in starting a playgroup in Yateley Parish in 1970. In the parish she was PPC Chairman twice, organised the celebrations for the consecration of the Parish Church of St Swithun and many other notable occasions. Anne chaired the local Women’s Day of Prayer Committee for a number of years. Anne faithfully attended National Council and Walsingham and actively encouraged all fellow members to attend. In 2011 Anne was one of the Catholic Women of the Year. Right up to her death she was serving as Foundation Secretary in the parish which she dearly loved. Anne Penrose, who supplied most of the information for this article said, It can truly be said of Anne – if you want a job doing and want it doing well – she was the person to ask. Yateley Foundation are devastated, it will be hard to find a replacement for her. I, personally did not meet Anne until I became Diocesan Media Officer five years ago and she gave me so much encouragement. Anne had a strong personality and her words carried a lot of weight. I have been asked by many members from the Portsmouth diocese ‘are you going to write something about Anne’?’ It is my pleasure to do so. So, on behalf of Portsmouth Diocese U.C.M. Rest in Peace Anne. Anne Penrose – Yateley Foundation The Ministry of Justice has this morning set out a commitment to divert the most vulnerable women in the criminal justice system away from custody through the provision of tailored support. This announcement comes just a week after the Justice Select Committee published their findings into Transforming Rehabilitation, the Government’s recent attempt to overhaul the probation service. Among their conclusions was the suggestion that the Government introduce a presumption against the use of short custodial sentences across England and Wales. Bishop Richard Moth, the lead Bishop for prisons, has said in response to these developments: “I wish to commend the Ministry of Justice for this move towards more effective rehabilitation for women. Evidence shows that short custodial sentences are detrimental to women and their families, and a greater focus on innovative community provision is a very welcome commitment. “The Justice Committee’s recent call for a presumption against short custodial sentences would apply to both men and women. Despite the evidence that community sentences are more effective at reducing reoffending than time in prison, their use has declined steadily over the last decade. “The Scottish Government have already introduced a presumption against custodial sentences under three months, and will shortly be extending this to twelve months. It is time for our Government to examine this approach in greater detail and to consider whether there are lessons that could be applied in England and Wales. “Reducing the use of short-term custodial sentences across the board would give offenders a better chance of rehabilitation, protect vulnerable individuals from exposure to potentially harmful environments, and reduce unnecessary pressure on an already overstrained prison service.” Elizabeth Christian, Diocesan Media Officer Catholic Church supports move away from short custodial sentences To advertise please contact Caroline Gonella at CathCom on 07931 836926 or 01440 730399 or email carolineg@cathcom.org

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Page 16 Winter 2018 The Catholic Mother

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