by Joe Hawley
Secretary Walsall Circle Catenian Association

Caught on camera at the end of 2017 was Fr Philip Newbold, who retired last year from the parish of Our Lady of Lourdes, Hednesford, to live in Lancashire.

Fr Philip was the guest of Walsall Catenians, who were meeting for Mass and dinner at the Village Hotel, near Junction 10 of the M6.

The Walsall Catenians, like all of the branches of the Catenians, come together on a monthly basis for a meeting and a meal. The convivial atmosphere and the good food and wine are appreciated by all. It is a way of Catholic men of the area enjoying each other’s company, and occasionally inviting the wives too, as well as clergy on the very special ‘Clergy Nights’.

Fr Newbold is seen with his bespoke ‘afters’. Having declined the pudding, a delicious cheesecake served to the rest of the company, Fr Newbold asked if he could have cheese instead, and at the contribution of £1 from a benevolent neighbour at the table, the plentiful cheeseboard arrived.

Fr Newbold responded to many questions about his ‘new life’ by stating that he is kept busy with supply work, but much benefits from the proximity of the sea to his new home.

If you would like to enquire about membership of the Walsall Catenians, please contact Joe Hawley on 0121 358 6963.