In the latest episode of the All Kinds of Catholic podcast it’s the turn of Emily Pugh, Caritas development lead in the Archdiocese of Birmingham.

Emily has worked in the role at Father Hudson’s Caritas (FHC) for almost two years and supports parishes and schools across the Archdiocese deliver social action.

She is the guest in Episode 112 of the podcast, Jesus is for absolutely everybody, and spoke to podcast producer and host Theresa Alessandro.

Emily is Birmingham born-and-bred.  She was born into a Catholic family and attended Catholic primary and secondary schools. 

She became an Altar Server in Year 6 and continued for about 10 years. She worked at Alton Castle (Catholic retreat centre in the Archdiocese) for a year before attending a Catholic university in Leeds. Then followed a 10-year career teaching in Catholic primary schools.

“It has been the thread running throughout my entire life,” said Emily. “God and Faith there all the time.

“The job at Father Hudson’s Caritas just appeared. I do genuinely feel God has taken me in a different direction.

“I am meeting new people all the time. This is a new journey.”

Emily’s role as Caritas development lead, and embracing the five themes of FHC, compliments the role she has within her own parish of Our Lady and St Brigid in Northfield, where she is heavily involved in the monthly SEND Masses.

These short, 20-minute inclusive Masses for people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities attract people locally, and from further afield.

“This journey started in the parish,” said Emily. “It has developed over time, and we have learnt along the way.

“We have created a safe place for families. Jesus is welcoming of all those children and adults.”

The relaxed service is followed by refreshments and helps to provide a support network of people. 

Emily acknowledges “I think there is a bit of fear (putting inclusion into practice) – about what to do and how to do it. We have to be welcoming and 
provide what they need.”

A fan of the Parable of the Good Samaritan, and a regular of the Rosary “I absolutely love the Rosary, it is my go-to” Emily is determined to keep on giving.

Theresa added: “It was great to catch up with Emily for a good chat about her life and her faith, and the work the Lord has led her into. 

“There are some great practical tips in this episode about how we can respond to people who may be on the margins, perhaps because of disability or homelessness for example. I was really inspired by Emily's thoughts.”

Listen to Emily on All Kinds of Catholic

SEND Masses in Northfield 

Father Hudson’s Caritas