Brian Miles, a parishioner at St Francis in Kenilworth, has recently joined the local ‘Circle’ of The Catenian Association.

Welcomed earlier this year, along with his wife Jenny, (both pictured above) he is getting to know fellow Catenians and becoming involved in activities.

The Catenian Association is an international body of Catholic laymen who meet at least once a month in local units called Circles. They are committed to their Faith, their families, to those in need and to each other.

Membership offers deep and lasting friendship and support to Catholic men at all stages of their lives, whether married or single.

Across the Archdiocese of Birmingham there are 22 circles with approximately 625 members.

The Catenians welcome new members and are actively encouraging Catholic laymen to find out more about the organisation.

Brian, now retired, chairs school admissions appeals panels for primary and secondary schools throughout Warwickshire and is a National Trust volunteer guide at Packwood House, Solihull.

Before the pandemic he carried out home visiting to visually impaired people in Warwick and Leamington.

“I was invited to join the local Circle by another Catenian. But I was also encouraged by the publicity of the Kenilworth Circle in the St Francis' parish newsletter,” said Brian.

“The opportunity to get to know other fellow Catholics in a faith-based setting, plus the wider social activities of the Catenians that could involve Jenny really appealed.

“In a very personal sense I also see becoming a Catenian as an unexpected and nurturing part of my faith journey - the Holy Spirit at work?

“Benefits include fellowship, prayerfulness, socialising, a feeling of belonging and support. I would highly recommend it.”

David Prescott, from the Kenilworth Circle 202, has been a Catenian for 12 years.

“Membership is very much a personal thing for each individual but our support for one another in faith is the biggest thing for me,” said David.

“Membership offers deep and lasting friendship and support to Catholic men at all stages of their lives, whether married or single.

“This friendship is based on the firm foundation of a shared faith and is enjoyed by their wives (whether Catholic or not) and their children and continues after a member’s death with widows being supported and involved on a continuing basis.

“The monthly meeting provides a time for relaxed enjoyment among supportive and faithful friends. The varied local social programme caters for all ages and provides a light-hearted environment in which friendships flourish.

“Whatever difficulties you face in life there will be members and their wives committed to helping you.

“Should a Brother suffer financial difficulties, there is a benevolence fund to provide assistance. Even after you have died, Catenians will continue to pray for you and all deceased members at every meeting and at Masses through the year.”

To find out more about the Catenians and discuss joining please contact David on 07702 605611, via email at [email protected] or visit the national website