The Bishop of Brentwood, Alan Williams SM, has been appointed the new Episcopal Liaison Bishop for the UCM. He takes over from Bishop Brain following his recent retirement as Bishop of Salford and after over 20 years of faithful service to the UCM. Many of you will know him (or know of him) from his former role as the Director of the National Shrine of Our Lady at Walsingham. He was born in Oldham, Lancashire in 1951. He took final vows in the Society of Mary [Marist Fathers] in 1981 and was ordained priest in St Anne’,s Whitechapel in 1983. Bishop Alan holds degrees in theology, psychology and religious education and has served in a number of pastoral roles. He has worked as a teacher and chaplain in secondary schools. He also served as Catholic Chaplain at Sheffield Hallam University and taught Christian Spirituality at postgraduate level. He is a former Major Superior of the Marist Fathers in England and has worked as a parish priest in the Archdiocese of Southwark. At Walsingham he had overall responsibility for pilgrimage and retreat work. When he was appointed as Bishop Fr Alan Williams said: ",I am both surprised and humbled to have been appointed by Pope Francis as the new Bishop of Brentwood. There is indeed a God of surprises and in my life as a priest and religious I have learned to trust ever more in the grace of God for whatever task has been assigned to me. Speaking about how his past assignments have influenced him, he states: ",Emeritus Pope Benedict encouraged Shrine Directors to have a special regard for those on the margins of the Church, `of weak ecclesial affiliation`. Great numbers of those on the margins make their way to England’,s National Shrine at Walsingham. I believe that the pilgrim journey is an invitation to everyone, Pope Francis reminds us that those who accept the gospel are set free - `With Christ joy is constantly born anew`. ",There are many parishes, educational and other communities in Brentwood Diocese and my previous ministries as parish priest, teacher and school and university chaplain, have made me eager to share Christ’,s joy with all whom I meet. His predecessor in Brentwood, Bishop Thomas McMahon, said of him on his appointment: Those who have met him in his role at Walsingham –, including many from our diocese –, have always been deeply impressed by the outstanding hospitality, thoughtfulness and care for pilgrims that he has shown there. He now brings these pastoral gifts –, so important in today’,s Church and especially under the present pontificate –, to a new and wider role as our next Bishop. “,Part of his charism is that focus on mission which is particularly to do with the fields of evangelisation and education. His skills are wide-ranging: as a former Major Superior to the Marist Communities in Britain, he has leadership experience, he has the pastoral experience of working in a parish, and his work in education is particularly apt for a diocese with nearly 100 schools.”, National President Maureen Mayers states, “,The UCM National Committee and all the members warmly welcome Bishop Alan as our Episcopal Bishop,We look forward to his participation in the life of UCM through National Council and the Walsingham Pilgrimage and in particular his spiritual help and advice for our members.”, Ann Jones, Features Editor [Look out for Bishop Alan’,s first column for the Catholic Mother in the next issue.] Spring 2015 Where man sees but withered leaves, God sees sweet flowers growing. Albert Laighton Photos and copy for The Catholic Mother should be sent to: Ann Jones, 81 Newlands Avenue, Southampton, SO15 5EQ or by email to catholic.mother@yahoo.co.uk. Distribution queries and problems should be sent to Caroline Mills, National Media Officer, at car oline_mills@btinternet.com. For further details about the Union of Catholic Mothers please contact the National Secretary, Irene Mitchell, at ucmnatsec@yah oo.co.uk. The Bishops of England &, Wales have issued a document titled ",The Call, The Journey and The Mission", inviting lay people to reflect on the gift of marriage and family life, ahead of the forthcoming Synod on Family in October 2015. This subject is very much at the heart of UCM, and I would suggest that Dioceses and Foundations make use of this document as a basis for a study day. Group discussions often bring out thoughts and opinions that would otherwise lie dormant. The document can be found on the website www.catholic-ew.org.uk. I think it is important that the Bishops hear our views and concerns on this very important issue, which after all is probably the biggest influence in all our lives. You can respond to the questions online, by putting in the heading which will bring up a fo rm to complete, or you can write directly to the Bishops` Conference of England and Wales, 39 Eccleston Square, London SW1V 1BX. Maureen Mayers National President Message from Irene Mitchell, National Secretary: If you would care to forward any thoughts to me by 1 June then I shall colla te and forward to the Bishops’, Conference on behalf of our organisation. The UCM welcomes Bishop Williams The Call, The Journey and the Mission Study / Welfare / Media Conference 2015 A total of sixty-nine delegates and five day observers attended the conference which ran from 11th –, 13th March and was once again held at The Hayes Conference Centre at Swanwick, Derbyshire, where we are always sure to receive a warm welcome. The theme for 2015 was ‘,Caring in the Family’, and the speakers covered various aspect of care within society. The conference opened on Wednesday afternoon with Holy Mass celebrated by Father John McNamee. Our first speaker was Pauline Walsh, Director of Samaritans, Bury, Lancashire. After retiring from full time work fifteen years ago –, Pauline was a primary school head teacher –, she joined the Samaritans as she was very much attracted to the suicide prevention aspect of their work. She informed us that Samaritans was started by an Anglican Vicar in 1953, starting with offices in London before going on to open in Liverpool and Manchester. There are 201 branches in the UK and Ireland run by 21,000 volunteers. There are also 100 paid staff at headquarters. Volunteers go through a fairly long period of training, have security checks and references are followed up before they are allowed to actually speak to members of the public. They are trained not to judge people no matter what their problem may be. Pauline was very inspiring as she explained to us the various aspects of her work saying that there is no typical person or problem, each case was different. No problem is too big or small for the Samaritans they always have a listening and compassionate ear. She explained that Samaritan volunteers are just ordinary people who help you talk things through whether you are feeling trapped, have mental difficulties, family problems, lost your job, or just in despair. Unbeknown to many of us they will actually phone a relative or friend back if you contact them with the agreement of the person requiring help, as sometimes the person requiring the help, is too afraid to make contact with Samaritans themselves. Delegates found Pauline to be a very inspiring and informative speaker who gave an interesting and educational talk being clear and concise giving us a great insight into the work the Samaritans. For instance, they don’,t just listen on the phone they visit the A &, E department in hospitals or police stations when young people have self-harmed or tried to commit suicide etc. You can email them and they will answer within twelve hours, Text/SMS and get a reply within sixty minutes and even correspond with them and they try to reply within 48 hours. It came across very well that Pauline is passionate about the work she undertakes and greatly appreciated the organisation of which she is part. Our first speaker of the second day was Clare Ward of Catholic Communications Network. Clare works for the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales as Home Mission Adviser and is part of the Catholic Communications Network being involved in various projects. Clare was trained as a BBC broadcast journalist. Clare spoke about the different communication platforms there were for instance non-verbal, signs and gestures and asked us how we could communicate with others without speaking. She went on to remind us of the Pope’,s message to ‘,go out’, and spread the faith. Claire was a wonderful speaker who made us think how we could effectively improve the sharing of our Faith. Clare also taught us good points about communication reminding us that in the early Church St. Paul had no modern means of communications like email and text so she advised us to keep it simple as he did, choose our words carefully and not to go on and on when writing an article. It should also have a beginning, middle and end. She advised us to pray before we started to write and to write from the heart, speak from personal experience and if writing on behalf of a third party to get their Continued on Page 15

Read in full

Page 2

Page 2 Spring 2015 The Catholic Mother From the National President Dear members, The past three years have seen some momentous events in the Church, beginning with the shock resignation of Pope Benedict, and the subsequent election of Pope Francis. The Canonization of two recent Popes. The Synod on the Family. Just to name a few. Within the UCM we celebrated our Centenary with the wonderful Mass at Westminster Cathedral, enjoyed a beautiful pilgrimage to Fatima, and next month I hope many of you will join me in Salford Cathedral for the Triennial Mass. Sadly at the end of 2014 we said goodbye to Bishop Brain as he retired, but we welcome most sincerely Bishop Alan Williams as our new Spiritual Advisor. He is a good friend to the UCM and known already to many members through Walsingham. I know he will be a great support to your incoming President Mrs Val Ward. Looking back through the past three years there are so many memories, happy and funny ones, but also some sad ones as long term members and old friends have gone. To the members around the country I give my thanks and appreciation for the support, kindness and generosity shown to me. No more getting up at the crack of dawn to catch an early train to the other side of the country and arriving home late after a long day. None of which has been any hardship because of the warmth of your welcome. As you are all aware the website is currently being re-designed and updated. The result should be a much better and more user friendly site, so that is something to look forward to. At the Triennial Mass I will be handing over a cheque for “,Let the Children Live”, which I hope will go some little way to easing the financial situation the charity faces constantly. I know that apart from this money many of you and your priests have welcomed Fr Peter into your churches and responded with generosity to his appeals. On Monday I will be going to Wales to represent UCM England at the Welsh UCM conference. This will be my last official event as your President. One of the lasting memories of my visits to Wales will be the rousing chorus of “,We’,ll Keep a Welcome in the Hillside”, on the last day. And just as with the visits to Scotland, where else but at a UCM event could you walk in alone with trepidation as I did three years ago and find you are with family and friends. Before I sign off I would like to pay tribute to my own foundation St Luke’,s Salford for their unstinting support. To The National Committee and in particular the Secretary and Treasurer, Irene and Angie, without whom my job would have been a lot more difficult. I look forward to seeing you at the Mass and National Council, and I offer my best wishes to Val. I am sure she will find the next three years as rewarding and enjoyable as I have. With love and prayers to you all, and a Happy Easter. God Bless Striving to help the family And the sick and lonely too Loving all mankind Forgiving the wrongs they do Overcoming hardships Responding with a smile Doing all the good they can Doing it all the while Inspiring other people in the furtherance of faith Offering up their prayers for this Counting on God’,s grace Each of these members of UCM is Second to none as you can see A body of women I’,m honoured to know Nameless but like you and me May God bless all members of UCM and when our time is come Perhaps he’,ll turn and smile at us and say a job well done. Written by Alice Livesey who many Salford members will remember. Contributed by Maureen Mayers, National President. Initial Thoughts Hallam Arundel and Brighton Rogie BROWN, Battle Foundation Clare WHIFFIN, Horley Foundation Birmingham Joan SCANNEL, Corpus Christi Foundation, Wednesfield Patricia NEVILLE, Past National Welfare Officer Clifton Win COCKLE, former member in both Arundel and Brighton and Clifton Dioceses Maureen OATLEY, past Diocesan President and Treasurer, Sacred Heart Foundation Westbury-on-Trym Mary HILL, St Dominic`s Foundation East Anglia Ralph ROSE, husband of Dorothy, Our Lady &, St Walstan Foundation Costessey Janet ROGERS, Our Lady &, St Walstan Foundation Costessey Jenny THOMPSON, twin sister of Janet Smith, Our Lady &, St Walstan Foundation Costessey Ruth BEALEY, Our Lady &, St Walstan Foundation Costessey Maria HEALD, Dereham Foundation Hallam Eileen NIGHTINGALE, mother of Dolores O`Brien, Holy Rood Foundation Barnsley Kathleen EVANS, mother of Susan Docherty, Christ the King Foundation, Rossington Leeds Norah TIMLIN, St Ignatius Foundation, Ossett Norah FINN, St Edmunds Airedale Foundation, past President Pontefract Central Council Margaret JOWETT, St Cuthberts and First Martyrs of Rome Foundation, Bradford. Maureen CONBOY, St Patrick`s Birstall Foundation Liverpool Reg BATEY, husband of Angela, past National Secretary, St Margaret Mary Foundation Fr John SEDDON, connected to UCM in a number of ways Martha CONNELLY, St Joseph`s Penketh Foundation Norman HOGG, Brother in Law of Ann Hogg, Diocesan Media Officer Middlesbrough Sheila JACKSON, St Margaret Clitherow Foundation, York Len BARKER, husband of Marlene, St Aelred’,s Foundation, York Plymouth Margaret WALL, Exmouth Foundation Pearl CROSS, founder member St Margaret Mary’,s Foundation, Plymstock Kathleen HENNESSEY, past Diocesan President, St Margaret Mary’,s Foundation, Plymstock Monica KING, St Margaret Mary’,s Foundation, Plymstock Portsmouth John DURRANT, good friend of the UCM and husband of Pat, past National Secretary, independent member Salford Brian BLACK, husband of Jean, St Monica Foundation, Flixton Shrewsbury Margarita MITCALF, St Luke`s Foundation, Frodsham Margaret RUSSELL, Secretary, Sacred Heart and St. Peter Foundation, Wythenshawe Southwark Evelyn LAGRUE, Hythe Foundation Agnes MADUJIBEYA, Lewisham Foundation Fiona KNIGHT, Joint President West Kingsdown Foundation Pamela BOLT, Westgate Foundation Eunice FARRELL, West Norwood Foundation, Bridget STEPHENSON, West Norwood Foundation Delia BROOKE, sister-in-law of Sadie Carroll, President of St Joseph`s Foundation, New Malden Emily JAKOB, granddaughter of Maureen Jakob, past President of St Joseph`s Foundation, New Malden Diana GUILLEN, St Joseph`s Foundation New Malden Westminster Sunna JARMAN, Chiswick Foundation Eternal rest grant unto them o Lord I wish to thank all my dear friends in UCM for the many messages of condolences and Mass cards received when my dear John passed away. My eldest daughter related to her husband in Australia –, ‘,It’,s like Christmas here’,, there were so many messages and he, like us, would have been overwhelmed by the prayerful support given. My family have been amazed at the strength of love shown –, it is only now, in this position, I can fully appreciate what others have written in the past. God bless you all. Pat Durrant, Past National Secretary A message of thanks St Joseph’,s Retford and St Peter in Chains Doncaster decided to come together to celebrate the enrolment of two members and the presentation of 50 year certificates. Fr Kieran Fletcher presided at the celebration of the Mass. Delia Fox, Diocesan President, then presented 50 year certificates to Mrs Nellie Lawson and Mrs Vera McCabe. Each foundation also enrolled a new member, Linda Garfoot from St Joseph’,s and Anne Troft from St Peter in Chains. Members enjoyed meeting other members, as well as the buffet supper, and agreed that the evening was a success that would be repeated. Joint celebrations Members of St Joseph’,s Staveley began their Christmas season by organising a concert by The Phoenix Singers. Members decided that instead of sending Christmas cards to each other they would use the money saved to purchase a Baby Grow Pack from the CAFOD gift catalogue. The foundation also purchased a Christmas tree for the parish, which was festooned with Remembrance Stars. Members did send Christmas cards, however. These were sent to prisoners as a means of holding them in our thoughts and prayers at this festive time. Sheilagh Preston, Diocesan Media Officer Christmas Concert

Read in full

Page 3

The Catholic Mother Spring 2015 Page 3 Churches Together The Theme for the Lenten Study in 2015 is “,Walking and Praying with Christians of the Middle East”,. The Christian churches of the Middle East are facing a crisis unparalleled in recent history. The number of Christians in this region has fallen dramatically as many have sought refuge in other parts of the world, especially in the West. The present conflicts and political instabilities in Egypt, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian Territories have had a profound impact upon these Christian communities. Many Church leaders in the region believe that without a Christian presence the future of the Middle East looks very bleak. Yet knowledge in the Western churches of these Christian communities remains minimal and often we are unaware of who Middle Eastern Christians are and what issues they face in our world today. Improving our knowledge of our Christian sisters and brothers is an important factor in their survival. During this season of Lent you are invited to pray for these Christians. Lent is a crucial time to remember the lands in which Christianity has its roots, Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, Israel, Palestine and above all Jerusalem. These are the places that remind us of events in the Bible but also that they dominate our news today. Sheila Godley, National Vice President The Pope has called for defence of the family Pope Francis recently spoke out in defence of the family when addressing 8000 members of the Schoenstatt Movement celebrating their 100th anniversary in Rome in October. He said that the family is under attack now more than ever before because of today’,s culture of division that wants to break from, and be free of, all everlasting bonds and forms of solidarity. Representatives asked the Pope a range of questions, from how to strengthen families to his secret for maintaining a sense of hope and happiness in such a trouble- plagued world. “,I haven’,t the faintest idea”, he said with a smile. He added that part of it comes from his personality and being a bit of a daredevil, but that any courage is also rooted in prayer and abandoning oneself to God’,s goodness. Knowing that God is always there “,even in moments of great sin”, gives him great confidence and faith he said. He advised that what is needed is a Church and Christians who are willing to “,waste time”, on people, not just principles, and accompany face-to-face those needing to discover the truth in Jesus. In response to a question about how to help families Pope Francis said he believes the Christian family, the whole family and marriage have never been as attacked as much as they are now, The family is “,beaten and bastardised since anything is being called a family”,. Families faces crisis because marriage and family life is being bludgeoned on all sides leaving it very wounded and there is no other choice than to go to the family’,s aid and give them personal help –, this is what he means wasting time. He said the sacrament of marriage is becoming just a ceremony or social event for some people who do not see its sacramental nature as a union with God. Unions that do not reflect God’,s plan of a permanent union between a man and a woman are forms of association, not marriage. Part of the problem is a lack of formation for engaged couples and this is a sin of omission no our part he said. But there is also the culture that is short-sighted, where everything is of a temporary or provisional nature and said that forever has been forgotten. He sees the same thing in his own family with couples living together. These are new forms, totally destructive and limiting the greatness of the love of marriage. When asked about the best way to share the faith with others, the Pope said going out into the world and living as true witnesses of Christ and that His message is the only way, so that others become interested and ask Why? This is witness, he said. Maureen Hurst, Public Services Officer Family Synod 2014 In response to the invitation of Pope Francis, the Bishops’, Conference agrees the following in preparation for the Synod of Bishops in October 2015: •, A period of spiritual reflection in parishes on the themes of the vocation, journey and mission of the family, inviting a response to specific points of reflection to be gathered in each diocese. These materials will be ready for use after Christmas. •, An invitation to the clergy to reflect anew on the principles and practice of pastoral care and accompaniment in the light of the “,Synod Report”,, Church Tradition and key pastoral challenges encountered today. Day for Life –, Change of Date The Bishops’, Conference agrees that, from June 2016, the annual celebration of the Day for Life, and its associated collection, be moved to the third Sunday in June. The 2014 Craigmyle Lecture The keynote speaker was Ann Widdicombe. She was made a Dame of the Order of St Gregory the Great by Pope Benedict XVI for services to public life and politics. Her speech was entitled “,Faith and Public Life”, –, some extracts are below. She said people of faith realise that politics and faith and the creation of country run on Gospel principles and we would look at the interaction and role of faith in modern public life. The Catholic Church interprets Christianity mainly as absolutes. Things are true or false, right or wrong, we are forgiving and understanding when standards are breached but have none when deciding what the standards should be. Politics has very few absolutes! It is the art of compromise, barter and keeping an uneasy balance between leading and following popular conceptions. So should Christians be engaged in politics at all? If we believe that God can work through governments then we have to have Christians in all political parties at all levels. If Christians were confined to one political party we could, democratically, end up with a Godless government. Anne spoke of inspiring people who have tried to put right some of the problems of our society, people like Bishops Derek Warlock and David Shepherd both of Liverpool who together tried to help the poor and marginalised even though they did not totally agree on religious doctrines, and William Wilberforce’,s long fight against slavery. She spoke of the decline in Christian faith in our country and the growing intolerance of the secular society. The Muslim community will not tolerate any attacks on their faith and asks why we Christians accept rudeness and insult. Such unpleasantness would not be tolerated on a racial basis and yet you can be demoted at work, have a 40% pay cut and even questioned by the police if you make the mildest objection to same sex marriage. Christianity has waned so much in our country that people with no faith cannot understand how important faith is to believers or why it is worth taking into account. Society is not only secular but multifaith. We all need to understand that respecting other faiths does not need to encompass the surrender of our own. Val Ward, National Vice President Evangelisation Pope Francis has asked us to evangelise and there is much talk about it in our Parishes and Dioceses. At a conference in July we were told about Catholics who had left the Faith, people who were disillusioned with their Faith, lukewarm Catholics and so on. But we didn’,t get any answers as to how to remedy this. In October I went to a talk by a young American Evangelist—,Meg Hunter-Kilmer. She took a degree in Theology and then went into Religious Education. She taught for five years and then felt compelled to give up her job to travel across America to talk about her Faith and evangelise. She is, at present, in England but will also be speaking in other parts of Europe. She is so enthusiastic about her Catholic Faith and it is worthwhile getting her up on Google to see what she has to say. She told us that we should all feel that we have a personal relationship with God, and ,if we haven’,t, to start by taking ten minutes every day and leaving ourselves open to hearing what He has to say to us. This ties in with what Sherry A. Weddell has to say in her book—,Forming Intentional Disciples—,she is another American Evangelist who finds it amazing that everyone doesn’,t have a personal God with whom they have a relationship. She says “,How much of our Faith can make sense to millions of Catholics when the bedrock foundation—,belief in a personal God who loves us—,is not in place? One of the Chapters in her book is called God has no Grandchildren. In America, as here, the number of young Catholic adults practising their Faith has dropped and fewer are getting married. If they are not attending Mass or getting married in the Church why would they bother to raise their children in the Faith? So, God will have no Grandchildren. This book does give some ideas on how to evangelise- --Prayer groups, Welcoming ministry, Retreats, I think it is worth reading just to make us think about our own Parishes. Shirley Brook, National Welfare Officer WUCWO report The General Assembly of the World Union of Catholic Women’,s Organisations (WUCWO) took place in Fatima, Portugal, from the 22nd to the 27th of October, with the theme “,Sowers of Hope”,. Encouraged by the words of Pope Francis in Evangelii Gaudium (EG), over 500 people from 35 countries and 56 organisations met to learn, discuss and prepare action plans for the next four years. The following resolutions were adopted: Family: WUCWO will encourage and support its member organisations and its representatives working at international fora to give priority to the urgent challenges facing the family and youth. Human Trafficking: WUCWO, its member organisations and its representatives at international fora will work individually and in network with other confessional and non- confessional related organisations to end the tragedy of human trafficking. Dialogue for Peace and Tolerance: WUCWO will create a climate of understanding and mutual respect to contribute to the achievement of peace around the world, cultivating and promoting a respectful dialogue with the world, with people from other Christian denominations and other religions, within the Catholic Church and among WUCWO’,s in the west organisations. Addiction Prevention for a Life With a Future: WUCWO shall promote through its member organisations the incorporation of prevention and elimination of alcohol and drug addictions in its action programs. Prevention and Fight Against Corruption: WUCWO, its member organisations and its International Representatives shall work with international bodies and national governments, communities and families, to eliminate corruption. Right to Have Access to Clean Drinking Water and Sanitation: WUCWO member organisations shall encourage amongst its members good practices in the sustainable use of water and shall encourage governments to accomplish the same. Maria Giovanni was re-elected as President General to serve another four years of office. The theme for WUCWO’,s work until the next assembly is “,Called to act with hope and justice.”, The Women of WUCWO resolved to continue in their efforts to pray and act to attain a world that is just and secure so that all persons everywhere can flourish and fulfil the mission for which they were created. The final statement of the WUCWO Board and Member Organisations was “,We will work to implement the selected priority for 2014- 2018: Hope in action in the service of family, youth, and the suffering of the world. Maureen Meatcher WUCWO Representative National Officers’, Reports Below are excerpts from the full reports from December 2014 Sheila Godley National Vice President Maureen Hurst Public Services Officer Val Ward National Vice President Shirley Brook National Welfare Officer Maureen Meatcher International Officer

Read in full

Page 4

Page 4 Spring 2015 The Catholic Mother Diamond Wedding Dorothy and Ross FISHWICK, (above) St Joseph`s Foundation, Staveley, Hallam Diocese Maureen and Patsy MAGUIRE, St Patrick`s Foundation, Rochdale, Salford Diocese Sheila and Eric BENNETT, Exmouth Foundation, Plymouth Diocese Golden Wedding Ann and Kevin MURPHY, St Catherine of Alexandria Foundation, Hallam Diocese Margaret and Trevor COOKSEY, (below) Holy Cross Foundation, Birmingham Archdiocese Ken and Celeste ANGEL, (above) St Boniface Shirley Foundation, Portsmouth Diocese Ruby Wedding Mr and Mrs Michael TROFT, St Peter in Chains Foundation Doncaster, Hallam Diocese 90th Birthday Ruth GLEESON, (below) St Vincent de Paul Lordswood Foundation, Portsmouth Diocese Lil COOK, (above) St Ambrose’,s Foundation, Kidderminster, Birmingham Archdiocese Elsie WALKER, (right) Independent member, Birmingham Archdiocese Margaret CAMPBELL, founder member, St Marks and St Edwards Foundation, Portsmouth Diocese Pat TROLLOPE, Hounslow Foundation, Westminster Archdiocese Joan MORTON, Christ the King Foundation, Liverpool Archdiocese Jean LONGLEY, (above) Merstham Foundation, Past Diocesean President and National Public Service Officer, Arundel and Brighton Diocese 80th Birthday Cecilia THORLEY, (below) Diocesan Secretary, St Dominic’,s Foundation, Clifton Diocese Margot PARKER, Sacred Heart Waterlooville Foundation, former Diocesan Treasurer, Portsmouth Diocese Pat O`CONNOR, Sacred Heart and St. Peter Foundation, Wythenshawe, Shrewsbury Diocese Lillian MELYNK, St Peter in Chains Foundation Doncaster, Hallam Diocese Josie HILL, St Mary`s Foundation Radcliffe, Salford Diocese Dorothy CRIER, St Luke’,s Foundation, Salford Diocese Joan JACOBS, St Luke’,s Foundation, Salford Diocese Margaret WELLS, St Colman’,s Foundation, Portsmouth Diocese 50 year Certificates Nellie LAWSON, President of St Peter in Chains Foundation Doncaster, Hallam Diocese Vera MCCABE, Vice President of St Peter in Chains Foundation Doncaster, Hallam Diocese Audrey MIHELIC, (below) Shirley Foundation, Portsmouth Diocese Congratulations to All Sight issues? If you know someone who is unable to read the Catholic Mother, please contact Caroline Mills at caroline_mills@btinternet.com to order your free copy. Ann and Kevin Murphy receiving Papal Blessing Submitting copy for next issue The deadline for articles and photos for the next edition of the Catholic Mother is 3 July 2015. Please send copy to Ann Jones, Features Editor, at catholic.mother@yahoo.co.uk. Thank you. St Mary and St Modwen Foundation, Burton on Trent, have a new member, enrolled at our AGM. President Eileen Rowley stepped down as President and handed over to Carol Kersey. Our Assistant Priest Fr Michael Glover officiated at the ceremony. New member Birmingham Left to right in the photo are Priscilla Vydelingum, (new member) Fr Michael Glover, Carol Kersey (new President) and Eileen Rowley (retiring President). Birmingham’,s Christmas party was joined by a special visitor. Special Christmas visitor Our Foundation is growing! We now have 39 members ranging in age from 24 to 90! In the past few months we have had four new members enrolled: Joanne Bruzgo, Clare Conway, Alane Harvey and Danuta Marszalek. We are a very active Foundation, spiritually, socially and in our fundraising activities, having raised over £,900 for our two charities last year, Home Start and our parish St Ambrose’,s. This year we are supporting Let the Children Live. Christine Vass, Media Officer St Ambrose’,s Foundation Kidderminster

Read in full

Page 5

The Catholic Mother Spring 2015 Page 5 Arundel and Brighton At Haywards Heath there is an annual sale after Christmas of unwanted items. This year a group that included our Spiritual Director, Deacon Dave Turner, his two daughters and son-in-law, Norma Cahill (UCM treasurer), her son Sean and other helpers all worked hard to make it a success. The funds raised will go to Handicapped Children’,s Pilgrimage Trust (HCPT) Group 71. Some amazing items were donated and the event raised £,668 on the day. Sean, a teacher, raised an additional £,334 by agreeing to have his beard shaved off by his students, and a lovely lady gave £,100, making a grand total of £,1100. HCPT was founded by Dr Michael Strode, a parishioner of St Paul’,s Haywards Heath, in 1956. He worked as a doctor at Chailey Heritage School for disabled children from 1953 until his retirement in 1988. He first took a small group of disabled children to Lourdes as part of the Birmingham Easter Pilgrimage in 1954. In October 1991 he entered the Cistercian Community on Caldy Island and made his final commitment as an oblate in 1998. In 1975 he was awarded the KSG at the opening of Hosanna House, and during the 2013 Easter Pilgrimage he was awarded the prestigious Medaille Notre-Dame de Lourdes in recognition of his long dedication to pilgrims and pilgrimages to the Shrine. Because of health problems of a couple of helpers at the moment, all fundraising will go towards next Easter’,s pilgrimage when they will be celebrating HCPT’,s 60th anniversary. Rosemary Tierney Unwanted gifts raise funds for HCPT The Merstham Foundation celebrated the 90th birthday of one of its members, Mrs Jean Longley in January. After watching a film about Our Lady of Fatima in the home of Foundation Treasurer, Patricia Wilding the lights were again dimm ed for the traditional entrance of the birthday cake with candles. Jean was presented with a card signed by all the members and an orchid plant. Jean has been a member of the UCM for over 50 years and is a past Diocesan President, she also held the post of National Public Service Officer and for a long time was the representative for the Southern Rest Home Service (now the National Holiday and Rest Home S ervice). Last summer when Merstham Foundation celebrated its 50th Anniversary Jean was presented with a framed certificate for long memb ership by our Diocesan President Mrs Judy Harkins. Linda Corcoran, Merstham Foundation Secretary Jean Longley`s 90th Birthday Celebration On a cold bright November morning ladies from Arundel &, Brighton UCM met at the Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation at West Grinstead. We were given a warm welcome by The Shrine`s custodian, Fr David Goddard who was leading the day. We then gathered in the church for the first address followed by Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in church wi th an opportunity for Confession before the Angelus and Holy Mass at noon. After lunch most of the ladies gathered in the Rosary Way for a photo call. There was also an opportunity to do some shopping of religious items and time to catch up with friends from other foundations before we returned to the church for the second addres s by Fr David. It was a lovely spiritual day. Rosemary Tierney Day of Recollection Birmingham Elsie Walker, one of our oldest members, celebrated her 90th birthday in August. Officers and members from the diocese and Wolverhampton section went along to visit Elsie on this special occasion. We reminisced with her and shared many memories of her faithfulness to the UCM. Over the years Elsie held three positions at Diocese (Welfare Officer, Secretary and Treasurer). She also served another three years as Wolverhampton Section President. Elsie accepted flowers, chocolates and a spiritual bouquet with such delight. It was a joy for all of us who had the privilege to see how she was looking - sprightly is the word. She raised her glass in style saying cheers to everyone with a gin and tonic. Mary Tunley Memories on a special occasion President Margaret Cooksey and her husband Trevor celebrated their golden wedding on June 20th this year. Further celebrations were in order on the 2nd October when Trevor received the Bene Merenti medal from Archbishop Longley for over 40 years of loyal service to the parish. Congratulations and many thanks from all at Holy Cross UCM –, well deserved. Double celebrations To advertise please contact Caroline Gonella at CathCom on 01223 969506 or email carolineg@cathcom.org Sacred Heart Rugby presented cheques to their chosen 2014 charities at the February meeting. Fundraising activities during the year included a Fashion Show (with UCM members taking on the role of models), raffles, bingo and a Christmas event. The foundation raised a record sum of over £,2000. Representatives of Myaware and Hypermobility Syndrome received cheques for £,1,106 to help fund new projects. In January the Sacred Heart foundation sent 21 blankets to the Women’,s Fistula Hospital in Addis Ababa. Members had spent many months knitting, crocheting and sewing in order to support the hospital in providing a new blanket for the women as they leave to return home to their villages. Pictured with some of the brightly coloured blankets are members who were involved in the project. Sue Leary, Foundation President Sacred Heart charity work

Read in full

Page 6

Page 6 Spring 2015 The Catholic Mother Clifton On Friday 14 November 2014 Mass was offered for deceased members of the Sacred Heart Foundation by Monsignor Bernard Massey, our Parish Priest. Following the Mass Monsignor Bernard enrolled four new members. The photograph shows the new members: Clare Palmer, Charlotte Toffolo, Margaret Golightly (president), Anne-Marie Keith Smith and Christine Fernandez together with Monsignor Bernard who is holding Emilio Toffolo who has been attending our meetings with his mother Charlotte for some time, to the delight of our membership. Moira Halls New Members at Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol Maria met her husband Tom while he was serving in the Army in Italy. They married in 1946 and Tom brought her to England, where they lived in Featherstone, near Pontefract. She was a founder member of the UCM from 1948. She moved to Norfolk in 1985, five years after the death of her beloved husband. Maria joined the UCM at Dereham and was one of our most active members. In 2001, she moved to West Sussex to be near her son and daughter-in-law. Although there was no UCM there, she continued to pay her subs to our foundation and we kept her up to date with the minutes of our meetings and sent her The Catholic Mother. She gave us a generous donation of £,50 every year for UCM charities. She passed away on 27 December, aged 95 and was buried at Pontefract with her husband. Her family were grateful that UCM members from Pontefract were able to attend. Anne Nicol A fond farewell to Maria Heald East Anglia The Costessey Foundation raised an impressive £,1350 for charity, dividing the amount equally between the HCPT and Help for Heroes. Beryl Stock, Diocesan Media Officer News from Costessey News from St Patrick’,s Birstall Leeds Birstall Churches Together St Patrick’,s UCM hosted the Advent Candle Service in preparation for Christmas. The theme of the service was Hope, Peace, Joy and Love and was compiled by UCM members. This was well attended and the service was followed by festive refreshments and led us towards the true meaning of Christmas. Mass of Enrolment In January this year our Spiritual Director, Canon Laurie Hulme, together with our Parish Priest, Father David Bulmer, concelebrated Mass at St Patricks Birstall to welcome into our Foundation Mrs Kath Routledge and Mrs Kathleen Gott. It was a very happy occasion. Eileen Hartley, St Patricks Birstall Amazing fundraising It is customary at our January Mass to present cheques to the charities chosen by our members. This year was no exception and at the Mass at St Mary`s Woolton the following charities received cheques. The Priests Training Fund - our No. 1 charity, Wigan and Leigh Hospice, Papyrus - a charity dedicated to the prevention of young suicide. The fourth charity was The Alzheimer’,s Society. Sadly they were unable to attend the Mass so Mrs Moore and our Secretary Mrs Kate Moss presented their cheque at their local office in Warrington. During 2014 our members raised over £,15500.00 for local and third world charities. Mrs Angela Moore, Diocesan President, the recipients of the charities and representatives of the foundations who nominated them. Members learn about History of Mass Over 70 members attended a talk in February by Fr John McLoughlin STB SLL on the History of the Mass. This was part two as the subject was so great and interesting that Fr John only did part of the history back in October. Fr John explained how the Mass evolved, and how parts of the Mass represent actions that took place over the years. For instance, in the early church there were seven Cardinals who each had a church in Rome. Not everyone could attend Mass with the Pope but Mass was said at the same time in the Cardinal’,s Churches. When the Pope broke the Host into pieces, a runner took the pieces and placed one piece into the chalice in each church as well as joining the Body and Blood of Christ the priest remembers this action. I would recommend any Diocese or Foundation to arrange to have a similar talk if at all possible. Ann Hogg, Diocesan Media Officer Christmas celebrations St Margaret Mary’,s Foundation and our chaplain Fr Mark Moran celebrated a Christmas Dinner [in February], at Knotty Ash Bistro. It was a wonderful night with good food and entertainment. Our new, young committee were dancing and singing to the Nolan’,s “,I’,m in the mood for dancing”,. Maureen Finnegan, Secretary, St Margaret Mary’,s Liverpool In the picture is Liverpool’,s retiring and new spiritual advisors, Fr Mark Madden and Fr David Potter, with our President Angela Moore, Secretary Kate Moss, Treasurer Margaret Kerbey and Deputy President Margaret McDonald. The photo was taken at our bi-monthly mass.

Read in full

Page 7

The Catholic Mother Spring 2015 Page 7 Study Day Lancaster In October the ladies from Lancaster had their annual study day. Ladies from Preston, Morecombe and Egremont attended the day. We started with a cup of tea in the cathedral hall, then Mass in Lancaster Cathedral. The speaker was Mr Martin Layton from Caritas Care, Preston. He was very entertaining, telling us about how he started off at Butlins, and then by chance went into care work and loves it. Martin told us a little of the history of Caritas which used to be Catholic Caring Services. Martin is now manager of the day centre in Preston. We had the inevitable raffle and gave the monies to Martin. We finished with a cup of tea and a catch up. Thank you to the ladies from the Cathedral who made us a lovely lunch. Maureen Skapars, Study day officer, Northwest and Lancaster Diocese Nottingham Crossing the Threshold Middlesbrough St Aelred’,s Church in York is one of the parishes in the Middlesbrough Diocese taking part in Crossing the Threshold. This is an initiative which aims to reach out to Catholics who have not been to church for some time and to make it easier for them to return. As usual the Mothers are involved and with Fr Bill Serplus, parish priest of St Aelred’,s, they have held a series of short services. During Lent they are opening the church and providing listening and friendship to anyone who needs us. Fr Bill is also the diocesan UCM chaplain. The photo shows some members of the core group –, all of whom are “,Mothers”,. Elizabeth Dunn, Diocesan Media Officer Faithful service recognised Pat Newby has retired after 30 + years of faithful service as secretary to the Loughborough Foundation of St Mary’,s. The photo shows our Foundation President Marie Brookes presenting Pat Newby with her ‘,thank you’, plant. Pauline Hallam, Nottingham Diocesan President Missio award Johanna Hume has been a UCM member of St Mary’,s Parish, Wigston, Leicestershire for over 20 years. She has also given long and devoted service to the cause of the “,Mission of the Church throughout the World”,. Her efforts have been officially recognised with a certificate signed by Cardinal Nichols. She was really delighted to receive this certificate. It is good to see just how many varied projects the members of the UCM support. Long may it continue. Frances Goodman, Diocesan Media Officer Salford Reddish celebrates St Joseph`s Reddish Foundation joined with over one hundred other parishioners in a celebratory luncheon to mark the 80th birthday of Father Moss, a much loved parish priest. Father Moss, ordained 56 years ago, has been with St Joseph`s Parish for the last 26 years of his ministry. His sister and brother in law, along with their family, came over from Ireland for the celebration. There were special greetings from Australia from Father’,s only other remaining sibling, Father Tom. Amongst the presents and cards he received was a Pastoral Bouquet from the UCM and a very stylish cycling helmet from the parish to help protect him on his travels! Catherine Rutherford, Foundation Secretary Recycle Recycle Recycle In January 20 members of St Mary`s Foundation in Radcliffe visited a recyling plant in Sharston, Manchester, an opportunity not to be missed if you get the chance to go. We were given a talk about the plant and how things worked. We were then taken on a tour seeing all “,departments”,, eg paper, tins, bottles and plastic. We saw how things were separated and what everything was used for. Did you know it takes 25 plastic bottles to make a fleece jacket? Insulation material is also a product of recycling. If you want to be a responsible recycler, keep in mind that glass is smashed in the recycling process. Wash glass out before binning as a jar left full will still be smashed and its contents go everywhere. Milk cartons and plastic bottles should have their screw tops removed as they get stuck in the machines and cause it to break down. Cans get squashed and formed into blocks of metal. Nothing is wasted, food and garden waste get made into compost. Surprisingly, there were no smells. It’,s a real eye opener and everyone should know more about it, there are open days and days for groups, I recommend a visit. We all enjoyed ours! Ann Marie Conroy Is it the site of the trial of Jesus? According to archaeologists, evidence of the remains of King Herod`s palace in Jerusalem and the site where Jesus may have been tried by Pilate, have been uncovered and are now open to the public. Archaeology professor Shimon Gibson said: `There is, of course, no inscription stating it happened here, but everything –, archaeological, historical and gospel accounts –, all falls into place and makes sense.`

Read in full

Page 8

Page 8 Spring 2015 The Catholic Mother Living our membership prayer Plymouth The harvest indeed is great but the labourers are few! How many times as UCM members, have we recited this part of our prayer? This may be true in many of our foundations. Certainly we are few here in our foundation in Kinson, Bournemouth in the diocese of Plymouth. However the members from Kinson work hard to help in every way they can. Over the past years they can be seen beavering away before Christmas, putting parcels together for the local Salvation Army in Bournemouth, enabling them to give the homeless Christmas parcels with a few bits that will bring some cheer to these folk. During the year, the members hold bring and buy sales, raffles and cake sales, raising money for the Josesphite Community. The Josephites are a teaching apostolate in the Congo and has now widened, enabling education for many young people. Kinson foundation members have also raised money for the La Sainte Union Sisters in Tanzania, also for education. Pictured are Father Bill Muir (our Parish Priest and Josephite) and Sister Michelle from LSU receiving cheques for £,100 each and also the members putting the ‘,Christmas parcels’, together. That small band of members will continue ‘,to offer love, sympathy and practical help to the family (and others) in difficulty and pray for more members to join our organisation. Val Gould Exmouth’,s ‘,Big Breakfast’, As part of our Church`s Centenary year, the parish held a ",Big Breakfast", after Sunday Mass. Over eighty members of the parish joined in and enjoyed a fruit starter, followed by a full English breakfast and then mini muffins and coffee. No need for any lunch that day! The hall had been transformed into a cheerful cafe, decorated in white and yellow, every table sporting daffodils and pineapples. There was an informal newspaper with quizzes and colouring sheets for the children. Everyone enjoyed it so much they were asking when we planned to have the next Big Breakfast. Lorraine Richards, Exmouth Foundation Exmouth’,s Nativity Challenge Holy Ghost Church in Exmouth held a Nativity Challenge this Christmas. Those who had gone on the parish pilgrimage to Assisi in 2014 had seen the collection of nativities in one of the churches. Parishioners, including children, took up the challenge to produce a nativity scene. The only guidelines given were that the crib should be no bigger than a shoe box. In total 17 nativity scenes were produced, including a Lego crib, crochet figures with the Magi travelling along the back of the church, a cotton reel nativity, a needlepoint lace scene in a carriage lamp and a pair of hands holding a Nativity. The last three were made by members of the Union of Catholic Mothers. The Nativities were placed around the church for everyone to see and they really added to the Christmas feeling within the church. Lorraine Richards, Exmouth Foundation

Read in full

Page 9

The Catholic Mother Spring 2015 Page 9 4 o 4 8 4 3 8 1 0 e n o h p r f r 6 b 9 2 2 4 8 / 3 5 4 4 r e b o t t c O O o t t r t e t s E a E R U O B R A H Y B N E T m o s t a o B t n e u q e r F n y b n e T , l l i H y a u Q u p o h S y e d l a C e h T t a n i l l a c r o a l s i - y e d l a c . w w w w 4 4 8 4 3 8 1 0 e n o h p d n a o b e c a f k u . o c . d n 6 9 2 2 4 8 / 3 5 4 4 k o o Portsmouth Naomi House is a hospice for children near Winchester and St Colman’,s foundation have been active for some time in supporting t his wonder- ful place. For some years we have made a regular donation each month, but we also try to raise further monies through boxes in which we can save small coins and some members have been knitting. In the last six months we have raised over £,130 towards the Caterpillar Appeal. This appeal has been launched for the purposes of major development of the original Naomi House as well as the Annexe, Jack’,s Place, which has been designed specifically for teenagers. The chief executive describes how ‘,caterpillars are a symbol of transition and growt h, representing the journey that [our] young guests embark upon when they join [us here] at Naomi House’,. The caterpillar is seen as a repre sentation of the integration and growth of Naomi House and Jack’,s place. Money collected through the Caterpillar Appeal will be represented by leaves on a Giving Tree. For every hundred pounds collec ted, a copper leaf will be placed on the Copper Beech tree. £,500 will warrant a silver leaf on the Silver Birch and £,1000 will merit a gold l eaf on the Golden Oak. St Colman’,s Foundation have been awarded a copper leaf which will be placed on the tree in April and members have been in vited to the ceremony. The leaf will be engraved with the name of our foundation and we are very proud to be part of this appeal. We hope to have five copper leaves before too long and then we can have a silver leaf. Watch this space........ Liz Christian, Diocesan Media Officer Take a “,leaf”, from St Colman’,s book 50th Anniversary celebrations It was a big day for St Edward’,s and St Mark’,s Foundation on 2 December 2014 as we celebrated our 50th Anniversary. The day started with Mass being concelebrated by Canon Hopgood (our parish priest), Monsignor France and several priests, including Fr Joe Greoszkiswiez our Diocesan Spiritual Advisor. A memorable service ended with a presentation of 50 year certificates to five members and a 45 years certificate with gratitude for her dedication to Mrs Angela Murphy. Many thanks to Mrs Pat Weavers (Maidenhead Foundation) who played the organ for us. The priests and guests had time to chat with some of the congregation before going to St. Marks Hall for a sit down meal prepared by Mr Anthony Brooke (Pat`s son) and served by his staff. Two of our husbands served the wine. The hall was decorated to suit the occasion and created a very happy atmosphere. We welcomed representatives from most Portsmouth foundations and our neighbour Langley from the Northampton diocese. It was great to meet up again, especially with our own previous officers, some of whom had travelled some distance to be with us. Many photos of past years were displayed showing our various activities, and we had a beautifully decorated cake made by Mrs Teresa King (our future Foundation President). After the two course meal followed by coffee, chocs, cheese and biscuits there were a few short speeches and a thank you presentation to Angela for seeing us through the past year of preparation and also for composing our song to the tune of Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes. It brought the house down. Despite wobbly knees, hips, backs, hearing aids and failing memory, our small in number and aged 65 - 93 group did well. Frances Costello, St Edward’,s and St Mark’,s Pauline retires In what can only be described as an historic event, St Colman’,s Foundation at Cosham has elected a new President. The outgoing president Pauline Webb, who is well known to members throughout the diocese, has been president for 23 years. She was ‘,so good at her job’, it has been nigh impossible to find anyone to take her place. And so she has continued, in what can only be described as a stalwart manner, to rule the roost. She finally made it clear, much to the consternation of many, that she could not and would not continue. As in so many foundations, other members have been reluctant to step up and there was concern about the future of the foundation. But, although she did not ride in on a white charger, rescue came in the shape of another Pauline. Pauline Kaznowski joined our foundation about a year ago. I haven’,t asked her age but she is at least twenty years younger than most other members and that in our book means she is young. The new Pauline is keen to take on the role and we look forward to having her at the helm for the next three years. Liz Christian, Diocesan Media Officer Deacon ordained Members from Sacred Heart Foundation at Waterlooville were privileged to attend the Deaconate Ordination of John Paul Lyttle, who has been pastoral assistant in our parish during the last year. This moving and wonderful experience was officiated by Bishop Philip, assisted by Canon Dominic Golding who served his early days at Waterlooville. John Paul’,s family and friends travelled from Guernsey and took part in the service, assisting with the donning of the beautiful cream and gold Deacon’,s Chasuble, matching those of the Bishop and Father Kevin, our parish priest. The ceremony was followed by a sumptuous feast and everyone enjoyed a very relaxed evening. We now look forward to Deacon John Paul’,s ordination to the priesthood at Portsmouth Cathedral later in the year. Please remember him in your prayers. ‘, Jean Hartnell, President Sacred Heart foundation Sacred Heart Foundation President Sheila Pickard presented James Whiting from ‘,Malaria No More’, with a cheque for £,513.10. To advertise please contact Caroline Gonella at CathCom on 01223 969506 or email carolineg@cathcom.org Pat Smith, new Treasurer at St Colman`s Foundation

Read in full

Page 10

Page 10 Spring 2015 The Catholic Mother Welcome new members (part one) Shrewsbury It was a great pleasure for Sacred Heart Foundation, Moreton Wirral to be joined on an enrolment evening in December 2014 by our Diocesan President Kath Plumb and Secretary Monica Barnett. Our picture shows (from L to R) Diocesan President Kath Plumb, new member Mary Garrity, parish priest Fr John Feeney, new member Tess Kirby and Foundation President Pat Hughes. Our foundation were delighted to be able to enrol two new members particularly as quite a few foundations in our area have closed over the past few years and there are now only four foundations left here. We feel very lucky that our members are of a mind to keep our foundation going, come hell or high water! To be able to add to our numbers is, indeed, a bonus. Younger members still elude us but we have to forge ahead with what we have and what we have is a supportive and happy group, continuing to fundraise for charities and help in our parish and outside it, when we can. This year for charitable donations we have supported St John`s Hospice, Wirral, CAFOD, Macrnillan Nurses, Tomorrows Women Wirral, The Carmelites Nuns, Alzheimers Society and Roy Castle Cancer, among others. Pat Hughes, President, Sacred Heart Moreton, Wirral Welcome new members (part two) The new members of St Peter’,s and St Raphael’,s Stalybridge were enrolled during Mass by Paddy Roberts, Deputy Diocesan President. It`s the first enrolment that Fr Philip has witnessed as he only joined the parish at the end of August last year. Fr Philip celebrated Mass and during the Mass enrolled the new members. He made the Mass a very special occasion and one which both old and new members thoroughly enjoyed. We are delighted to be able to say that our membership is now over 50 with approximately 40 attending the meetings on a regular basis. We have a monthly Mass followed by our meeting in the Parish Hall. We regularly assist at Parish events and support all our members (and members of the parish) whenever help is needed. The ladies also enjoy speakers or demonstrations at the monthly meetings and, of course, love a good natter and a cup of tea with cake. Pat Fleming, Parish President Honor Murray, Fliss Holland, Ann Taylor, Sheila Hawley, Margaret Hambleton, Kath Marshall, Fr Philip Atkinson, Josie Lees, Ann Howard, Pat Ashworth and Pat Fleming (Parish President). Sharing with the less fortunate In previous years St Peter`s &, St Raphael`s Stalybridge have always had a Secret Santa at their December meeting. This year the members decided that they would like to give gifts to people less fortunate than themselves and so gifts were made up for our local men`s hostel - Greystones. The gifts consisted of toiletries, woolly hats, gloves, scarves, chocolates, biscuits and other goodies. The men and staff were delighted with the gifts and it is something that our UCM will certainly do again. The photo shows one of our members, Sheila White, delivering the gifts. Sheila on the extreme left. Pat Fleming, Parish President

Read in full

Page 11

The Catholic Mother Spring 2015 Page 11 Dates for Diary National Study Days Swanwick, Derbyshire 2016: 21–,23 March 2017: 22–,24 March 2018: 19–,21 March The National President`s Tri-annual Mass 25 April 2015 at The Cathedral Church of St. John the Evangelist, usually known as Salford Cathedral, at 2:00 pm. National Council 11-13 May 2015, Swanwick, Derbyshire Annual Walsingham Pilgrimage 6-7 July 2015 GENERAL NEWS Cafod Fundraising A Hunger Lunch at St James Reading raised £,185 for Cafod. A lovely soup, bread, cheese and crunchy apple lunch was enjoyed by all who attended. Maggie Burton, St James Foundation Portsmouth Southwark In February Archbishop Peter Smith of Southwark ordained to the Priesthood Deacon James Houghton from the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham. The ordination took place at Our Lady Help of Christians and St. Aloysius, Folkestone Kent. Afterwards a celebration buffet was enjoyed by all, provided by the UCM and other members of the parish community. Cecilia Grace, President, Folkestone Folkestone congratulate Fr Jamie Houghton Holy Cross, Catford, celebrated their 70th anniversary in October. It commenced with a beautiful Mass celebrated by Fr Doug Bull in the church followed by a buffet lunch in our Hartley Hall. Our diocesan president attended along with members from other foundations. We numbered 57 people in total and a good time was had by all. 70th Anniversary Before Christmas we had a very enjoyable parcel wrapping evening with Joyce Driver of the Co- Workers of Mother Teresa. Every year the Co-Workers prepare Christmas parcels for distribution to men and women who are homeless and for whom this is the only gift they are likely to receive. The contents are carefully chosen and the parcels must be beautifully wrapped. Joyce was pleased with our efforts, and you can see the results in the photo. Teresa de Bertodano West Norwood Foundation GENERAL NEWS This year UCM Wales celebrated 25 years of their independence at their well-attended conference. The theme of the conference was ",My Burden is Light", (Matthew 11:30). There were speakers from the mental health charity, Gofal, and one of the Catholic Women of the year, Helen Williams, speaking about the Handicapped Children’,s Pilgrimage Trust (HCPT). We look forward to welcoming all the Presidents to our own National Council in May. Maureen Mayers, National President UCM Wales In the photo (from L to R) National UCM President Scotland Ann Rielly, National UCM President England Maureen Mayers, National UCM President Wales, Rose Maunder, Elizabeth Upsher, CWL, and Pearl Clark, NBCW.

Read in full

Page 12

Page 12 Spring 2015 The Catholic Mother J &, M SEWING SERVICE LTD By Appointment to HM The Queen, Manufacturers of Church Robes High Quality Church Robes - Made in England and individually manufactured to order in our workshop We make a wide range of items - for example :- CLERICAL SHIRTS, CASSOCKS, COTTAS, ALBS, CLOAKS, BANNERS, FRONTALS, VESTMENTS (including Diocesan Vestments) you name it, we probably make it OUR MOTTO ... “,THERE’,S ALWAYS TIME FOR COURTESY!”, Order online at www.jandmsewing.com or ask for our free Catalogue Tel: 0191 232 9589 Fax: 0191 230 1215 Email: jandmsewing@btconnect.com 1 Charlotte Square, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4XF Established by Joyce Davison &, Maureen Waterston in 1980 GENERAL NEWS Our local newspaper printed an article entitled ",Reader`s Stories",. This is a snippet in the life of a member of our foundation, Mrs. Maureen Conboy, who 90+ years young. Orphaned at eight Maureen was provided with a happy home by her aunt. ",She loved me like I was her own",, says Maureen. ",She was widowed when my uncle died of a heart attack. He was a miner and was sacked for starting a Union.”, Indignation is registered in her voice as she recounts these facts. Her recall is astonishing for someone of her years. She speaks of a very happy and carefree childhood spent with freedom, especially in the summer months of days in the fields unsupervised, returning home at dusk. Maureen`s schooling finished when she went to work in a textile mill, colourfully referred to by her as ",the dark hole of Calcutta",. Curriculum Vitae was not an ",in vogue", term back then, but Maureen has achieved an Honours Degree in the University of Life. She had an interest in art which her aunt wanted her to pursue at Notre Dame Art College in Leeds, but Maureen felt it her duty to work and contribute. However in later years that talent was cultivated, and her work of some note is displayed on the wall of her home. During World War II she worked at Lancaster Aeroplanes and was recruited as a firefighter to extinguish fires caused by incendiary devices, with very basic equipment to carry out those duties. Maureen`s warmth and sense of humour is palpable, and no more so when talking about ",The Evacuees",. Maurice, Brian, and their sister (also called Maureen) came to live with her and her aunt in Yorkshire from London during the war, a friendship which continues to this day. Relationships are forged in the strangest of circumstances and enrich lives for many years. Maureen is visited regularly, and enjoys hearing the news of the UCM. I hope you’,ve enjoyed our tribute to a very lovely lady. Eileen Hartley, St Patrick’,s Birstall Foundation, Leeds Diocese [Sadly, we have received news that Maureen died on 16 March. Her family have given permission for this article to be included. Ed.] Memories One member’,s story The Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Exmouth is celebrating its centenary on 6 May 2015, and to commemorate this significant event, a history is being compiled. UCM members in Exmouth are contributing to this record of parish and prayer life. Many members have been blessed with long lives and long memories, and their anecdotes and recollections have been providing an interesting insight into how much life has changed generally, but not least into the changes that have occurred within the Catholic Church. Several recall being part of the Children of Mary, and taking part in May processions, clad in white robes and scattering rose petals, in honour of our Lady. Nearly all recall the days of the Latin Mass, the priest with his back to the congregation, kneeling to receive communion and being forbidden to touch the host. They remember being expected to stay still and silent during Mass, instructed to “,sit on your hands“, to prevent fidgeting. Whilst there is some nostalgia for days gone by, there is also a warm recollection of how changing practices have made the church more accessible. One member recalls the first time she attended Mass after the new altar had been installed: “,When the priest faced you and held out his arms, you felt like you were really being welcomed”,. Sionhan Canham, Exmouth Foundation, Plymouth Diocese Centenary brings insight into changes WUCWO is the World Union of Catholic Women’,s Organisations. The WUCWO General Assembly held in Fatima Portugal last October was divided into sections. The Study Days were 23 and 24 October, followed by three Statutory Days. The working groups and plenary sessions discussed the following subjects - Sowing Hope for the Common Good and How to be Sowers of Hope in the different realities. I was invited to be a co-ordinator of one of the working groups, which is always a testing but wonderful experience. There is never a silent moment and it is so gratifying to realise that women from different continents have the same values for their lives. The Statutory Days included reports from leaders, ratification of new member organisations and the approval of resolutions. Each day a celebration of the Mass was held in a different Chapel of the vast arena that is Fatima. At the opening ceremony, Ana Christina Villa Betancourt (for the Holy See) brought greetings from the Pontifical Council for the Laity. How good it is to see such a young woman in a high position in the Vatican. Ana is Columbian and belongs to the Marian Confraternity of Reconciliation. She was a speaker at the WUCWO European Regional Conference held in Leeds in September 2013, at which she quoted many reflections that had been given by Pope Francis. I first met Ana when she was living in the Salford Diocese and renewed that acquaintance in Leeds, so it was good to hear and see her again. Sheilagh Preston Media Officer, Hallam Diocese WUCWO General Assembly 2014

Read in full

Page 13

The Catholic Mother Spring 2015 Page 13 GENERAL NEWS Portsmouth Diocese have been supporting a Nigerian priest who served in their diocese who is establishing a Psycho-Spiritual Institute. They have raised over £,1200 this past year. Here is Fr Dominic`s letter reporting on progress and giving an interesting personal insight into a different culture. I have been combing parts of Eastern and Southern Africa for the Institute. I was away for four weeks in Kenya, Melawi, Zambia, Ethiopia drumming up support and interest in the Psycho Spiritual Institute. I have had to meet with administrators of academic environments to discuss and plan affiliation, curriculum development and areas of partnership. I have felt a great sense of fulfilment, though it has been very tiring. I know you have been reading and watching the news on the sad developments in Nigeria and other parts of Africa. Please do not relent in your prayers for us. It is our hope that someday, those with hate in their hearts will mend their ways. My family, friends and relations are safe. Even though I “,fled”, Nigeria to Kenya, Kenya was not safe either. Muslim fundamentalists attacked and killed innocent commuters and field workers. It is outrageous but no one understands the working of the minds of these murderous individuals. Thankfully while that was going on, I was away in Ethiopia. I learnt of the incident only when I returned. The constant threat of some individuals in the name of religion or faith is making a mockery of religion and religious institutions, if not God himself. Atheism is gradually becoming attractive. But all is not gloomy. I had some nice experiences in the places I visited. Africa is a big fresh garden. It is a garden of exotic people, plants and wild life. It is coloured by attitudes, food and drink. Africa remains one place where culture and tradition has resolutely refused to bow to modernisation and globalisation. I daresay the recipes, culinary dishes remain refreshingly unchangeable: fresh foods, fruits, nuts, unfrozen meat, fish and water (with impurities!). Now it is coming up to Christmas which will be my first here for many years. One thing has changed. The preparation for Advent. I notice people have started putting up Christmas trees, decorative fences and buildings, superstores harassing customers and clients with Christmas items. They are all new to me out here. In the UK this would have been expected and a usual sight. Rock bottom prices and 70% discount sales wouldn’,t have shocked my back pocket. But here in Abuja, Nigeria, I am taking them all in grudgingly. Why? I was expecting the simple approach. I am used to everyone preparing mentally, spiritually and the movement of people. I was expecting to hear of masquerades preparing to sing new composed songs, dance, prepare to adorn their bodies with colourful grasses from the fields, flowers and off cuts from fabrics. But what has caught my eyes is the UK-style in Abuja, Nigeria. I hope I can get my long lost Christmas experience in the villages where there are no big shops, mega churches and less than a million people. Yes peace and quiet. People dress in their Sunday best. Children wearing colourful plastic eye glasses, rubber shoes and new dresses on Christmas day. I can’,t wait to walk around some ritual neighbourhoods and catch sight of long legged brown goats ready for the slaughter on Christmas Day. Of course, there are certain families who may not be able to afford a Christmas goat. A chicken might suffice for a household. These animals used to be the decorative signs (our Christmas trees) to announce it is Christmas, the birth of new life and new approach to everything. But things have changed so dramatically. Sadly the North East part of Nigeria would likely not celebrate. Most people have been displaced. May they hear the voice of the Lord wherever they are and be safe. You see, if you think you are the only ones in the habit of mourning about changes or thinking of your past or that old times are the best, you are not alone. Trust me, you are not alone. Old ways of doing things seem comfortable. We all feel threatened by changes. But there is something here that has not changed. It is the weather at Christmas and the attitude of people towards preparing for Christmas. The weather is something I should share with you. We are not expecting snow. No chance in a thousand years. But the weather we enjoy is what is called the Harmattan season. It is cold, dry, dusty and hazy weather. Mosquitoes and crawling insects stay away. It tends to be cold all the day and the temperature drops at night. So, we often have a good night’,s sleep. But it comes with another problem: dust and dirt. The cold wind comes through the Sahara Desert. It sweeps along sand, dusts and dumps them on roof tops, craves of homes and makes the environment dirty. Everything in the house is covered with a tiny film of dust. Human skins are sucked of their lushness and moisture and replaced with dry, crispy skin seeking attention. This time of the year peoples’, skins are broken, lips left dry unless moistened with Vaseline or creams. I have seen people wear jumpers, heavy winter coats to cheat the Harmattan. As for me, I am loving it. I love the cold part of it. As for my skin, I really don’,t care. Father Dominic Adeiza Christmas in Africa OUR LORD IN THE WILDERNESS WE CAN`T IMAGINE HOW HE SUFFERED FORTY DAYS HE WANDERED THUS THROUGH THE WILDERNESS, SO LONELY SACRIFICED HIS LIFE FOR US CALLING FOR HIS HEAVENLY FATHER JESUS BEGGED HIM WITH THIS PLEA ",HOLY SPIRIT THREE IN ONE WHY HAST THOU FORSAKEN ME", IN HIS TORMENT, BODY DRAINED FROM HEAVINESS OF CONTEMPLATION WAITING FOR HIS FATHER`S ANSWER THAT THE CROSS WAS OUR SALVATION IN A STATE OF CONSTANT HUNGER JESUS HAD MUCH MORE TO FACE THE SERPENT TAUNTED HIM WITH RICHES BECKONED HIM TO LEAVE THIS PLACE SMOOTH AND WARM HIS VOICE LIKE HONEY SELECTING TEMPTING TONES HE SAID ",IF YOU`RE WHO YOU SAY YOU ARE TURN THESE STONES AND ROCKS TO BREAD", BUT JESUS, THOUGH IN WEAKENED STATE FEVERED, BUT HIS WILL NOT GONE BID THE EVIL ONE GOODBYE SAID ",I DON`T LIVE BY BREAD ALONE MY FATHER`S ALL IN ALL THROUGH ME MY SACRIFICE I`LL GLADLY GIVE SO SINS MAY ALWAYS BE FORGIVEN SO ALL WHO LOVE ME YET MAY LIVE", Jo Sparkes, East Anglia Diocese Evangelisation…, …, across the Hemispheres One day last October my husband and I met up with my cousin Doris and her husband Peter. It was quite a momentous occasion because they had flown from Tasmania to Heathrow and then travelled to Southampton to embark on a cruise across the Atlantic to New York. ‘,How far was Southampton from Portsmouth?”, they had emailed. ‘,Was there any possibility of meeting up?’, they had asked. We had an exhilarating morning catching up on lives and interests. The aims of the UCM were of interest to them as Peter had been the QC appointed by the Tasmanian government to be an independent assessor in an investigation into the abuse of children by their carers. His father had been the Anglican Bishop of Tasmania so they have strong links to the Anglican church. As a consequence of our shared interests I sent a copy of the Catholic Mother to my cousin. [I have to admit to some egotism as I wanted them to read my own article describing the National Presidents pilgrimage to Lisbon.] They enjoyed reading the whole paper but what really amazed me was when Doris told me they have a lovely little Anglican chapel close to them dedicated to ‘,Our Lady of Walsingham’,. So from Norfolk to Hobart.. …, and at the Gym Each morning after our line dancing or our swim, a group of us sit and discuss ‘,everything under the sun’,. I tell them what I am doing at UCM and this week I told them I would be going to study days at Swanwick where I understand one of the speakers, a highly qualified nurse will be talking to us about dementia and the role of carers. Several of the group have asked if I will relay to them when I get back what I hope to have learned about this very emotive and currently much discussed subject. I am sure I am not the only member who finds herself discussing UCM issues and that many of you have stories to tell, so why not share them here in our newspaper. Liz Christian, Portsmouth Diocese Media Officer Union of Catholic Mothers Website The new look website for the Union of Catholic Mothers, is now in the process of being built. There is a ‘,Holding Page’, which has some very basic information and forthcoming events about the Union of Catholic Mothers. The new website should be launched Summer 2015. Caroline Mills, National Media Officer

Read in full

Page 14

Page 14 Spring 2015 The Catholic Mother To advertise please contact Caroline Gonella at CathCom on 01223 969506 or email carolineg@cathcom.org GENERAL NEWS (This piece is a helpful reminder from the blog of Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury.) In a process of reconciliation in which I was involved recently, one of the questions that people were asked (quite a standard question in these circumstances where the disputes are within the church) was, “,What has this dispute done to your soul?”, You could adapt the question to different sorts of disputes, not least by changing the word ‘,soul’, to ‘,spirit’, or ‘,inner self’, or something like that. But it is a very valid question: the impact of conflict is not only external, but deeply internal. It causes trauma and lasting damage even where there has been no physical violence. I will remember for a long time a letter I received in the last few years from someone who’,d gone through a particularly difficult conflict in the church. It was full of what can only described as deep trauma and sorrow. It had been deeply damaging. There were lots of reasons for this, but one that has been on my mind recently has to do with electronic media that we value enormously –, Twitter, blogs (this is after all a blog), email, text and all the other ways in which our communications have been made more or less global and instant. (I am aware of numerous other forms but don’,t want to end up sounding like an advertisement for particular apps.) The trouble is that subtleties, tone and access all get muddled up. That’,s not a new comment - it’,s been said many times - but every now and then things happen which make it even clearer. The subtleties we lose when we communicate electronically have to do with expression, with touch, with the face-to-face aspect of relationship. Social media does not show tears in the eye, a hand on the arm when saying something painful, body language that speaks of inner turmoil, deep distress –, even gentle respect. It is simply there –, usually forever. Certainly within the church, that is not the way the bible teaches us to disagree. Disagreements always happen: they always have, and always will –, we only need to read the Acts of the Apostles and the letters in the New Testament to see that. But the best examples of disagreement and strain are dealt with personally. The Gospel of Matthew, chapter 18, sets out the pattern. It starts with personal meetings, and goes on to wider disciplines. It sets something in motion, a new stage of relationship. Print and electronic media is often just static and, often indelibly, locking us into a permanent present tense that hinders healing. Tone is equally difficult to achieve, electronic media has no volume control. The US President Teddy Roosevelt spoke of speaking softly and carrying a big stick. Electronic media speaks loudly and carries a big stick –, through it we have no other means of speaking, especially in the compressed form that is often used. For disputes within church communities, Jesus in Matthew’,s Gospel makes it quite clear that personal interaction is essential –, yet all of us feel that when someone has done something wrong, we should all say so! Electronic media breaks through locked doors, and pierces people painfully. It is not for all of us to set everyone right on everything. There’,s a point at which we need to leave it to those who know people to speak to them personally and quietly –, in spaces where the tone is subtle and full of love. That is how people can be put back together rather than torn apart and left lying around in electronic media space. Love often says don’,t tweet. Love often says don’,t write. Love often says if you must rebuke, then do so in person and with touch –, with an arm around the shoulder and tears in your eyes that can be seen by the person being rebuked. Love often says “,Don’,t tweet”, A colleague of mine who mentors a university student devised the following list of questions to get him thinking about his life experiences, and how they might relate to future career choices. I thought that members might enjoy them too –, perhaps they could generate a lively discussion at a foundation meeting! If you could have the following superpower, which one would you pick, and why? Ability to fly / Super strength / Turn invisible If you were trapped on a deserted island and could pick one famous person (alive or dead) to be with, who would it be? Who was the best/most influential teacher you ever had? Is there anything you pretend you understand, but you really don’,t? What is it? If a genie gave you only one wish, which would you pick, and why? If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? What was your favourite toy when you were little? If you could give £,1 million to a particular charity, which would you pick? If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be, and why? Tell me about a favourite movie and why you like it so much. Who do you think you are most like in your family? Why? What is one new thing that you have learned about yourself in the past two weeks (or month, or year)? Is there something that happened to you as a child that you can honestly say defined who you became as an adult? What famous person do other people tell you that you most resemble? If you could bring one character to life from a favourite book, who would it be? If you could have personally witnessed one `event`/`moment` in history, what would you want to have seen, and why? Which of the four seasons do you most anticipate, and why? If you could be any age again for one week, what age would you be, and why? Ann Jones, Features Editor, Catholic Mother Questions Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Internet searching –, some top tips Here are some great ways to get the best results from your Google search. Use quotation marks to search for an exact word or set of words –, useful when searching for quotes or song lyrics. Put a dash before a word you want to exclude from your search (eg jaguar –,animal). Use site: to search within a specific website (eg site:nytimes.com) Use two full stops between two numbers to express a range of things like dates, measurements and prices (eg academy award winners 1950..1970) And finally, have you ever watched a movie or TV show and wondered where you’,ve seen an actor before? IMDB (the internet movie database) lets you search by actor, movie or tv series to see past credits and cast lists. Happy searching! [reference www.google.com/insidesearch/tipstricks]

Read in full

Page 15

The Catholic Mother Spring 2015 Page 15 B o a r bank Hall C o n t a ct : Sr Ann e Do n oc kl ey B o ar b ank Hall , G rang e ove r Sands Cum b ria LA 11 7 NH T e l e p ho n e : 015395 32288 W eb si te : www. bo ar b ank h all. o rg.uk C an o n esses o f St A u g u st in e o f t h e Me r cy o f Jes u s “,Yo u d es ir e to b e build e r s o f p e a ce, p ossess i t yo ur se l ves fir st”, - S t Augus t in e A Wa r m W e l co m e t o Ev er y o n e P ra ye r , Co mmuni ty , Hos pi t ali ty , C ar e o f t h e p oo r and s i c k Church Pews Uncomfortable? Why not try top quality upholstered foam pew cushions? Safefoam, Green Lane, Riley Green, Hoghton, Preston PR5 0SN www.safefoam.co.uk Freephone 0800 015 44 33 Free Sample Pack of foam &, fabrics sent by first clss mail When phoning please quote MV101 GENERAL NEWS In a recent pastoral letter the Catholic Bishops spoke about the upcoming general election, stating “,our relationship with God leads to the desire to build a world in which respect, dignity, equality, justice, and peace are our primary concerns”,. [Full text available at www.lawandreligionuk.com.] In this thought provoking article Maureen Meatcher speaks about issues relating specifically to women and the family. As members of the Union of Catholic Mothers in Great Britain, it is our objective to preserve the Christian ideal of the family. Laws promulgated by the two previous governments have seriously undermined the valuable position of the family in achieving the well- being of all. A married woman is no longer able to refer to herself as a wife –, she is a partner. As a partner she is expected to be in paid employment to contribute to the family’,s and country’,s economy. If she decides to start a family she will have the choice of becoming unemployed or paying for the child to be cared for by someone else. Some women do not have a choice, they are obliged to remain in paid employment to sustain the economy of the household. The child is put in the care of another person or persons who may not have the same values of those in a Christian household. When the child goes to school the parents have little or no control over their education as government decrees what should be taught and how. In later life if a person decides to leave employment to care for aged parents, they are not considered an asset to society, just an individual in unpaid care work. Our present government is concerned about the pressures on our National Welfare System and seem blind to the idea that the fault may lie in the breakdown in the family which came about from easy divorce, the objectification of the person and the needs of the individual taking priority over the communal good. 2015 is a year of opportunity for change in the UK as we prepare for the election of a new government. Since the 1980s Britain has been subject to rampant consumerism and individualism while Christian values of solidarity and selflessness have been supplanted by a secular creed of every person for themselves. There is a widening gulf between rich and poor, while community life is declining. Christian leaders have warned that the politicians are “,making promises aimed more at selfishness than basic fairness, fostering a brand of self-interest that is destroying the “,glue”, that holds society together. For us Catholic women that “,glue”, is the family. Pope Francis has advised that we are impelled to contribute to the public discussion of social issues, not only as involved citizens, but also because of the Christian understanding of what a just and sustainable society looks like. Politicians assume that the value of a given community is founded solely on its economic output. There is a general economic assumption that the economy has the power to dictate what is and is not possible for human beings, if the economy can be fixed, the fixing of human beings will automatically follow. While in the past our country was governed with Christian principles, our greatly secularised society seems to agree on only one un-Christian principle which is every person for themselves. In the time before the next election we in the Union of Catholic Mothers must be prepared to question the prospective parliamentary candidates to see who is the most likely to represent our views if elected. After all, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Article 5.2 states that “,motherhood and childhood are entitled to special care and assistance.”, We must ensure that those in office will support the laws which will be conducive to the enhancement of family life. In the words of Pope Francis “,no one can demand that religion should be relegated to the inner sanctum of personal life, without influence on societal and national life, without concern for the soundness of civil institutions, without a right to offer an opinion on events affecting society. …,…,.. An authentic faith –, which is never comfortable or completely personal –, always involves a deep desire to change the world, to transmit values, to leave this earth somehow better than we found it.”, (EG183) So it is our Christian duty to engage in the democratic process and use our vote wisely for the greater good. Maureen Meatcher UCM International Officer [This article originally appeared on the Women’,s Voice website.] The Family –, our part in its survival permission before you put anything into print. Claire also told us that she thanked her mother for passing on the Faith to her. The session after morning coffee was divided into three sections, one for Study, one for Welfare and the other for the Media ladies where they were able to discuss their own individual problems. The first speaker of the afternoon session was Darren Maltby, Advice and Information Officer for the Royal British Legion. Darren gave us a heart rending account of his private life so that we could fully understand how he came to be volunteering for the Royal British Legion. Darren joined the Royal Air Force at 18, following in his father and grandfather’,s footsteps. Following his discharge because of ill-health, there was a big hole left in his life. This led to a marriage break-up and at one point Darren was living in the woods. If it had not been for the Royal British Legion (RBL) Darren would not be where he is today. They helped him with housing and benefit application so Darren decided to give a little back and became a voluntary case worker and is now County Branch Officer for East Midlands, working around sixty hours a week. Darren highlighted the ongoing suffering of many servicemen and women which regrettably is not being recognised. The RBL don’,t just put a sticking plaster on, an applicant is helped with retraining, compensation specialists are on hand if injured during activities whilst in service, advice on independent living and outreach workers help those living on the street. Budgetary advice is also available as many servicemen are ‘,naï,ve’, about real life because whilst in the forces everything is done for them. Darren went on to tell us about all the various types of help on offer and explained that servicemen and women are also put in touch with other agencies that may be able to help them too. There are currently over 250,000 members of the RBL who each pay around £,15 annual membership. It is this money that helps run the offices etc. All other monies come from the annual Poppy Appeal. It surprised us all just how much work the RBL carried out on behalf of the ex-servicemen and women. Darren’,s own experiences certainly allowed him to deliver without being too flowery and gave us a better understanding of how to deal with family and friends. Zena Aldrige was the last speaker of the day. She is an Admiral Lead Nurse from Norfolk. Admiral Nurses are specialist dementia nurses who give much needed practical and emotional support to family carers as well as the person with dementia. There are 130 Admiral Nurses in the UK. They were founded by the family of Joseph Levy who suffered from Dementia and not knowing what to call the nurses, they settled on ‘,Admiral’, as Joseph loved sailing! John Suchet, the television personality was support by the Admiral Nurses when his wife had dementia. Zena held various unqualified posts in health and social care before deciding to undertake a Diploma in Higher Education Mental Health Nursing in 2000 at the University of East Anglia. Following successful completion of the course Zena became a ward sister on an MFE ward in an acute hospital, completing her Master’,s Degree with a dissertation focusing on the impact on the carer when a person with dementia is admitted to an acute hospital. A keen interest was developed in Palliative and End of Life care and the impact on people with dementia and their families in this context. Zena gave a wonderful presentation, and her warm personality came through as she spoke about the various forms of dementia, of which there are over two hundred and she went on to explain what the signs of dementia are should we be worried about a family member. It was very obvious that Zena loved her job –, it’,s a pity that the Admiral Nurses are not more widespread across the country. Thursday evening saw us enjoying entertainment for St Patrick’,s Day with ditties and songs ably provided by Birmingham Archdiocese. Friday morning’,s session started with open forum which was followed by a reflection given by Father John McNamee. Father is currently Parish Priest at Christ the King, Rossington, Doncaster. Father trained for the Priesthood at Ushaw College and was ordained for Leeds Diocese in 1968 holding a number of posts and was for a number of years Episcopal Vicar for Education in the Hallam Diocese under Bishop Rawsthorne. Father thanked everyone for the warm and friendly welcome he had received and commented on how good the speakers were. He went on to say how Clare gave us motivation to listen to others. Faith he said was a unique encounter between God and ourselves. We have to have confidence in the fact that God sometimes speaks to us through other people and continue to share the message of Faith with our children and family. Father John felt Pauline was excellent and told how to be a compassionate listener. Father went on to say listening is not easy, it is much easier to be a speaker –, St Benedict’,s first word in his Rule is ‘,listen’,. We are not here to judge. We need to share the good things we have heard. Finally, Father reminded us that God gave us one tongue but TWO ears! My thanks go not only to Birmingham Archdiocese, particularly Rosie, for the brilliant entertainment they provided but all those who helped the smooth running of the conference. Maureen Woodward, Secretary/Treasurer for Study and Welfare. Study / Welfare / Media Conference 2015 Continued from Front Page To advertise please contact Caroline Gonella at CathCom on 01223 969506 or email carolineg@cathcom.org

Read in full

Page 16

Page 16 Spring 2015 The Catholic Mother WALSINGHAM WHISPERS MARY, MOTHER OF SILENCE We were delighted to hear recently of the appointment of Bishop Alan Williams as the new Ecclesiastical Advisor to the UCM. Bishop Alan is no stranger to Walsingham, as he was Director of the Shrine for many years. I know a number of you will have met him. We look forward to welcoming him to his first Pilgrimage as our new Liaison Bishop. The Walsingham Sub Committee thank Bishop Terence Brain for all his contributions, support and love over many years and wish him a well deserved happy and healthy retirement. We also look forward to welcoming Bishop Alan Hopes of East Anglia, our Lead Diocese for 2015. The 2015 Annual Pilgrimage to Walsingham, which will take place on 6th and 7th July 2015, is looming fast and we are making preparations for this. As I stated in the Winter edition of the Catholic Mother the theme this year is `Mary, Mother of Silence` and the Readings will follow this theme. Bookings for 2015 This is the last issue of The Catholic Mother prior to our pilgrimage. The final booking form is attached and the cut off date is 15th June. Beds at the Pilgrim Bureau are being booked for members by Anne Emblem, the Co-ordinator for our lead Diocese. The 2015 accommodation costs are: •, Standard room Bed &, Breakfast - £,27.50 •, En-suite rooms Bed &, Breakfast - £,39.50 •, Evening meal - £,9.75 •, Packed lunch - £,5.00. Please remember to send in your forms as soon as possible to enable us to get your tickets back to you in good time, remembering to follow all the instructions on the printed form. Stewards Thank you to all the stewards who will volunteer to help us on the day –, without you all our pilgrimage would not run smoothly –, we really do appreciate all your help, 70th Anniversary A reminder that the National President elect, Val Ward, has requested that we all wear a white rose to celebrate this very special year –, our 70th Anniversary - and we do hope that many of our members will be there to mark this special year. Please encourage as many members as possible to share this Anniversary with us. Finally, the Walsingham Sub Committee looks forward to welcoming you to Walsingham and we pray for a holy and happy pilgrimage with wonderful weather. Maureen, Angela, Elizabeth and Paddy Walsingham Sub Committee At a meeting arranged by Caritas, we were reminded again of the ongoing scourge of human Trafficking. The Medaille Trust, an organisation we all know and have actively supported since its inception in 2006, plays a great part around the country providing safe houses for men, women and children. Together with volunteers who work with them in supporting these vulnerable people as they try to integrate into the community. In 2008 the WUCWO Assembly in Verona was on Human trafficking, a final document was adopted and addressed to the European Parliament on the issue. Here we are seven years later, and if anything the problem is getting worse. Recently Bishop Patrick Lynch addressed the Combating Human Trafficking Conference in Rome and stressed these four points. 1. Be aware this isn’,t something happening in a far off location, it could be happening in a place near you (in fact I was shocked recently to read in the press that it had been happening very close to where I live). 2. Be convinced that it is imperative for us all to share any knowledge we may come across. Share any concerns and work together. 3. Be compassionate if we have any contact with a person who has been exploited this way. As Sister Euginia Bonetti expressed so forcefully and eloquently at the WUCWO Assembly, we can provide food, clothing shelter and loving care, but we can never give back what has been taken away from them. 4. Be collaborative, work together to help in any way we can to combat this evil trade. For trade it is and a lucrative one, just as much as trade in drugs or arms. In the words of St Pope John Paul II “,The trade in human persons constitutes a shocking offence against human dignity and is a grave violation of fundamental human rights.”, Maureen Mayers, National President Human Trafficking

Read in full

Find your local Catholic Historical Church newspaper. Scroll to find yours.