Safeguarding Policies Expand Policies approved by the Trustees of the Archdiocese of Birmingham Management of Allegations and Concerns Safer Recruitment Safeguarding Privacy Notice (updated March 2026) Key Roles and Responsibilities in Safeguarding Victim and Survivor Care Charter Low Level Concerns Policy Safeguarding Service Complaints Policy and Procedure Safeguarding Communications Strategy
Travellers Ministry Expand Chaplain to the Travelling Community: Fr Eamonn Corduff Rev Fr Eamonn Corduff
Parish Safeguarding Communications - Minimum Standards In order to meet the standards set out by the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA) all parish communications need to demonstrate clearly the Archdiocese’s commitment to safeguarding. Expand Parish Safeguarding Communications - Minimum Standards The following has been sent to all clergy: In order to meet the standards set out by the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA) all parish communications need to demonstrate clearly the Archdiocese’s commitment to safeguarding. Could you please take the necessary steps to include this information on all parish communications (newsletters, noticeboard and website). Parish Newsletter For the parish newsletter, please include the following short statement together with contact details for parish safeguarding representatives (PSR) – using their RCAOB email address – this should not include personal telephone numbers: The Parish operates in accordance with Statutory Safeguarding Guidance and the National and Archdiocese's policies & procedures at all times. Our Parish Safeguarding Representative is [xxxxxxxx]. They can be contacted at: [safeguarding email address] or alternatively the Diocesan Safeguarding team can be contacted on 0121 230 6240/ [email protected] if you have any concern. Parish Noticeboard For the parish noticeboard, please print out and display the attached: • Safeguarding Statement• CSSA poster – Needs editing with PSR details and RCAOB email address – not personal phone number.• PSR Photo – optional• Safe Spaces poster• The Isaiah Journey guide Parish Website For the parish website, please include the following: • Safeguarding Statement• Link to Archdiocese safeguarding website• Safe Spaces statement and link to website• The Isaiah Journey - link to website
Finance Expand Birmingham Diocesan Trust annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024 Download and read report The Finance department of the Archdiocese handles all areas in relation to central and parish finance, and assists parishes in managing their finances by providing support and training on OPAS (the parish finance system) and in completing and claiming their Gift Aid monies from HM Revenue and Customs. In addition to this, we provide financial management support to parishes to support them in balancing often challenging budgets. We also monitor and maintain the central diocesan budgets, providing information to trustees and departments, to ensure that there is robust and good stewardship of the finances of the Archdiocese Curia. We manage the finance of the capital allocation for our Voluntary Aided schools, working closely with schools and the property team here at the Archdiocese. The department looks after all the Archdiocese’s financial compliance, including the completion of the charity’s Trust Financial Statements, Payroll, internal audit programme (audit of parish and other diocesan department accounts) and management of the statutory audit. We also administer the Diocesan investment scheme, a fund which is available to diocesan bodies to invest surplus funds on the investment market, the fund is managed by a third party investment fund manager. Contacts Head of Finance - Sue Simkiss - 0121 230 6283. For enquiries in relation to Finance, compliance and Diocesan investments. Diocesan Finance Manager - Susan De Costa - 0121 230 6234. For all enquiries relating to Diocesan Finance. Parish Finance Support Manager - Stuart Jelf - 0121 230 6222. For all enquiries relating to Parish Finance and parish audit Diocesan Accounts and Payroll Officer - Magdalena Edwards - 0121 230 6244. For all enquiries relating to Diocesan and DES Finance, School’s capital payments and Diocesan Payroll (NB – use [email protected] for schools capital funding enquiries). Diocesan Accounts Assistant - Kerry McKenna - 0121 230 6217. For all enquiries relating to Diocesan and DES Finance, School’s capital payments and Diocesan Payroll (NB – use [email protected] for schools capital funding enquiries). Parish Gift Aid Advisor- John Nolan - 0121 230 6219. For all enquiries relating to parish Gift Aid. Parish Finance and Gift Aid Officer - Rheann Byrne - 0121 230 6262. For all enquiries relating to parish finance and Gift Aid, also parish legacy payments. Parish Auditor - Rod Wigley. For all enquiries in relation to booked audits, please contact Rod by email, or contact Stuart Jelf. For general accounts payable: [email protected]
Parish Safeguarding Representatives Volunteers in our parishes and chaplaincies who support on safeguarding matters. Expand Parish Safeguarding Representatives are volunteers in our parishes and chaplaincies who support on safeguarding matters. They come from a wide range of professional and personal backgrounds. They ensure parishes and local communities are aware of the importance of protecting children, young people and vulnerable adults, and what is involved in promoting good practice. They support parishes in the safer recruitment of volunteers and ensuring that their parishes and communities and the activities they run are safe for everyone.
Weddings (Office for Marriage) Expand OFFICE FOR MARRIAGE The work of this office is the processing of marriage papers - worldwide - for couples where the Catholic party, at least, is resident within the Archdiocese of Birmingham. The aim is to help and assist priests, deacons and couples in the preparation of marriage documentation. Paperwork is sent to the Office for Marriage from the parishes or chaplaincies, it is processed, recorded, and then forwarded to the parish / diocese of marriage. Please Read: Marriage Office Privacy Policy Contact Detail:e-mail: [email protected] Tel: 0121 230 6242 (voicemail facility available) Hours: Tuesday – Friday 09.00-15.00 Frequently Asked Questions Q: What paperwork do I need to submit to the Office for Marriage?A: A fully completed pre-nuptial inquiry form and additional supporting documentation depending on the couple and the type of marriage. See ‘Documents’ section of this site for all relevant paperwork. Q: When should I contact the Office for Marriage?A: For marriages within the Archdiocese please forward documentation as soon as it is completed. Marriages taking place outside the Archdiocese of Birmingham need particular attention so you are asked to submit all documentation as soon as possible. Q: Should I include original documentation?A: Unless requested please only send in photocopies of original documentation. Photocopies of the following are acceptable, Civil notice of marriage (blue papers), all certificates, ie - baptism, marriage, divorce, marriage-prep, dissolution/nullity, death, etc as appropriate. Q: How is permission for a marriage between a Catholic and a baptised Christian obtained?A: In the Archdiocese of Birmingham permission for a mixed marriage is given either by the Archbishop’s Delegate for Marriage or the Dean, Parish Priest of the Catholic party. Please complete the section relating to mixed marriage in the pre-nuptial inquiry form. Q: How is permission for a marriage for a Catholic and an un-baptised person obtained?A: This is an impediment to marriage. So for validity a dispensation from disparity of cult must be granted by the Archbishop’s Delegate for Marriage. Q: What happens if there is doubt about the baptism of the non-Catholic party?A: Please submit the doubt to the Archbishop’s Delegate for Marriage. Q: Are there any other impediments to marriage?A: Yes, these are listed in the Code of Canon Law (canons 1083-1094). NB: The impediment of prior bond is of Divine Law and applies to all persons. It cannot be dispensed; in other words a person is only free to marry if their previous spouse is deceased or a tribunal has issued a dissolution or annulment of that union. Q: Before whom should the couple marry?A: In accordance with canonical form and for validity a couple must marry before the local ordinary or by the parish priest. With the appropriate delegation a couple you may marry before another priest or deacon provided delegation is granted by the parish priest. To be valid this delegation must be given expressly to a named person indicated on the pre-nuptial inquiry form. The Archbishop’s Delegate for Marriage also has competence to grant this delegation if needed. Q: Must couples marry in their parish church?A: Ordinarily marriages are to be celebrated in the parish of the Catholic party. The parish priest can request a dispensation from this canonical form which would enable the couple to marry elsewhere. This dispensation is required for the validity of the marriage. In all circumstances a request for this dispensation is made to the Archbishop’s Delegate for Marriage. Q: Can invalid marriages be rectified? A: A marriage may be invalid because of a defect of consent, form or some other impediment which existed at the time of the marriage. The parish priest can request that such marriages be validated. For validity, such convalidation is granted by the Archbishop’s Delegate for Marriage. Q: Are there extra requirements for marriages outside of the Archdiocese of Birmingham?A: Marriages outside of the Archdiocese require additional information and therefore the pre-nuptial inquiry form, along with supporting documentation (see Documents section) should be sent to the Archbishop’s Delegate for Marriage as soon as possible. Q: Are there any costs?A: These will be discussed with you by your parish priest. As from 1st April 2015 there will be a levy payable by the couple for documentation presented to the Office for Marriage. The levy is £30 for local (own diocese / E&W conference areas and £50 for all other areas / abroad). The couple are to pay this levy directly to the Parish, which in turn will be debited by BACS transfer accordingly.
Safeguarding Training Advice on training for those who minister, complete paid work or volunteer in diocesan parishes Expand Clergy and Religious All those who provide ministry work in the Archdiocese of Birmingham must complete training in safeguarding on appointment (if not already held) and regularly as part of their continued formation and professional development. Pastoral Standards and Safe Conduct in Ministry - please read 'Caring Safely for Others' document from the Catholic Bishops Conference of England and Wales. Ministry Training 1: One day session - bi-annually (every two years) - this session covers guidance to support you in safeguarding and scenarios impacting parishes at the current time. Ministry Training 2: Online session - Safeguarding in the Catholic Church, Level 3 - every three years - this session covers guidance for safeguarding within the Catholic Church, a dedicated course for our work, and is provided by the Strategic Council Catholic Safeguarding via the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA) website Continued Formation in Safeguarding means a person who ministers in the Archdiocese of Birmingham should review training as per bi-annual or three yearly. Parish Safeguarding Representatives All Parish Safeguarding Representatives (PSRs) once appointed to the role have initial training by way of an Induction provided by the Safeguarding Advisors team. Then also Safer Recruitment provided by Administrators team. We also offer advice and workshops/training for groups and parishes if they are requested - if your parish or group would like training, please let us know and we will try to meet your needs. Strategic Council Catholic Safeguarding (SCCS) formerly Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA) Learning Portal The Strategic Council Catholic Safeguarding (SCCS) has developed a learning portal with various modules that apply to the Church setting. Safeguarding in the Catholic Church level one, two or three are applicable for all volunteer users depending on their role. Safeguarding Training: Online Session - Safeguarding in the Catholic Church, Level 3 as part of your underpinning knowledge for your role. This training takes around 90 minutes and you can self-enrol for the module at a time that suits you via the CSSA training page on their website Lay Volunteers Safeguarding Training is provided dependant on the role you volunteer for within the Catholic Church. General roles: Reader, Peity Stall, Money Collector, Key Holders, Cleaner, Gardener etc must complete: Safeguarding Training: Online Session - Safeguarding in the Catholic Church, Level 1 as part of your underpinning knowledge for your role. This training is whereby you register to be provided with a two-page Safeguarding document advising of guidance to you. You can self-enrol for the module at a time that suits you via the CSSA training page on their website All other roles involving working with Children and/or Vulnerable Adults: Safeguarding Training: Online Session - Safeguarding in the Catholic Church, Level 2 (Requiring a DBS for a role working with Children or Vulnerable Adults) as part of your underpinning knowledge for your role. This training takes around 90 minutes and you can self-enrol for the module at a time that suits you via the CSSA training page on their website Safeguarding Training: Online Session - Safeguarding in the Catholic Church, Level 3 (Requiring a DBS for a role working with Children or Vulnerable Adults) as part of your underpinning knowledge for your role. This training takes around 90 minutes and you can self-enrol for the module at a time that suits you via the CSSA training page on their website Here you can learn about safeguarding at your own pace with dedicated online modules. All courses are open and free for everyone. Sign up today to join our learning community.
Safeguarding Trustee Sub-Committee Our work is overseen by a Safeguarding Trustee Sub-Committee which includes representatives from various organisations both Statutory and Voluntary. Expand Our work is overseen by a Safeguarding Trustee Sub-Committee which includes representatives from various organisations both Statutory and Voluntary, as well as those with roles in the Church. Members Bishop David Evans (Deputy Chair)Canon Jonathan Veasey (Vicar General)Eric Kirwan (COO)Claire Reay (HoS)Kari Gordon (Trustee)Sandra Satchell (Member - Kenelm Youth Trust)David Sullivan (Member – Parish Safeguarding Representative)Helena Kirk (Member – Children’s Social Care)Sr Una Coogan (Member – Religious Order)Dr Anne Crawford (Member – CAMHS/Birmingham Children’s Hospital)Mr Desi Rodrigues (Member - Birmingham Children’s Hospital) Representatives: Mr Paul Donnelly
Safeguarding Resources and Links Other agencies and services. Expand CSSA - Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency DBS - Disclosure and Barring Service IICSA - Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse NAPAC - 0808 801 0331 / National Association for People Abused in Childhood Religious Life Safeguarding Service - Religious Safeguarding Safe Spaces - Safe Spaces England and Wales Survivors Trust - The Survivors Trust Survivors Voices - Survivors Voices We Are Survivors - Break the silence - Supporting Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse and Rape. 24/7 Support Line, 0808 500 2222. Quest offers fellowship to LGBT+ Catholics by providing information on this website and through our member bulletin and social media. NSPCC – 0808 800 5000 Childline – 0800 1111 Samaritans – 116 123 Family Lives – 0808 800 2222 National Domestic Violence Helpline – 0808 2000 247 Action on Elder Abuse – 0808 808 8141 Rape Crisis – 0800 500 2222 Stop it Now A confidential helpline, live chat and secure messaging service for anyone with concerns about child sexual abuse and its prevention – whether they’re worried about their own thoughts, feelings and behaviour, or about another adult or young person. Stop it Now 0808 1000 900 Clare’s Law This scheme gives any member of the public the right to ask the police if their partner may pose a risk to them. It is often called ‘Clare’s Law’ after the landmark case that led to it. This scheme also allows a member of the public to make an enquiry into the partner of a close friend or family member. West Midlands Police: Clare's Law Warwickshire Police: Clare's Law Staffordshire Police: Clare's Law Thames Valley Police: Clare's Law West Mercia Police: Clare's Law Sarah’s Law The Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme (CSODS) lets you formally ask the police whether someone who has contact with a child or children: has a record for child sexual (paedophile) offences poses a risk to the child or children for some other reason It's not a law, but it is sometimes called 'Sarah's Law'. It gives guidance on how you can ask us to use our existing police powers to share information about sex offenders. If you’re worried about someone’s behaviour towards a child, or something you've seen, heard or been told, you can use Sarah's Law to find out if that person is a risk. You must apply for information about a specific person and a specific child or children they spend time with. You cannot apply for general information about child sex offenders. Thames Valley Police: Sarah's Law Staffordshire Police: Sarah's Law West Midlands Police: Sarah's Law Warwickshire Police: Sarah's Law West Mercia Police: Sarah's Law
‘When You Are Ready’ A co-produced, nationally coordinated campaign Expand ‘When You Are Ready’ ‘When You Are Ready’ was launched on Monday 21 October 2024. It is a co-produced, nationally coordinated campaign with the aim of encouraging adult victims and survivors of child sexual abuse and exploitation to reach out for support and ensure they feel seen, heard, and supported. The campaign message is simple: If you’ve been abused or exploited as a child, we are here, when you are ready. We understand. We believe. We care. Access website and resources
Commission for Promoting Christian Unity Dedicated to promoting unity between Christians Expand Archdiocese of Birmingham Commission for Promoting Christian Unity The Commission is dedicated to promoting unity between Christians. The lay and clerical members of the Ecumenical Commission represent designated areas of the Archdiocese. Our aims are to foster the cause of Christian unity across the Archdiocese, and to deepen our relationships with other Christian communities. We aim to enable and encourage ecumenical practice within parishes by sharing good practice; acting as a source of advice and support; and developing ecumenical leaders. Why we support Ecumenism The call to seek Christian unity comes from Jesus himself. He prayed the world may be one, “as I am one with The Father” (John 17:21). Ecumenism (from the Greek word Oikoumene: meaning the whole inhabited world) is not complicated; it is simply witnessing, in unison, with other Christian communities to the salvation of Jesus Christ. Christian unity is not a distant prize at the end of our journey of faith; it is a gift from God that we receive on the journey itself when Christians travel in harmony. All we believe, all we practice, all we love about our faith, has an ecumenical element; instead of doing “ecumenical things” to promote unity, we should seek to do all things ecumenically. If you wish to know more about the role of the Commission, and/or offer support, please contact Deacon David Fairbotham, Diocesan Ecumenical Officer, [email protected] or 07948379545, or contact one of the other Commissioners named below who will be delighted to help. The ways we promote Christian unity Seek and encourage opportunities for shared prayer for unity Develop and champion a vision for ecumenism with the four priorities of the Diocesan Vision, Unfolding God's Plan Act as a source of advice and support to Archbishop Bernard Longley Be a catalyst and empowerer of all involved in ecumenism Provide advice, guidance, and inspiration Develop ecumenical leaders Support diocese-wide and local projects Develop a calendar of annual national and local ecumenical events. January 2026: Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Theme: One Body, One Spirit Events taking place across the Archdiocese of Birmingham: Solihull: St Augustine, Solihull: The Christian Unity Service will take place at the Methodist Church on Sunday 18 January at 6.30pm. Do please come along to support this event. Bishop David Evans has agreed to give the Homily for this occasion. Coventry: The Chapel of Unity, Coventry Cathedral has an Ecumenical Worship Service on Sunday 18 January 2026 at 2pm. There are also daily meditations online 19-23 January. Birmingham: Kings Heath Churches Together will celebrate the week with a service at All Saints Anglican Church, High Street on Sunday 18 January at 6.30pm. Birmingham: Central Sutton Churches invite everyone to join the following services during the Week of Prayer: • Sunday 18 January, 6.30pm, United Service – Sutton Coldfield URC• Monday 19 January, 12.30pm, Holy Trinity Church of England • Tuesday 20 January, 2pm, South Parade Methodist Church • Tuesday 20 January, 8pm, Real Life Church, Sutton Coldfield URC • Wednesday 21 January, 10.45am, Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church• Thursday 22 January, 10.30am, St Peter’s Church of England• Friday 23 January, 7.30am, Sutton Coldfield Baptist Church Birmingham, Harborne: The Churches in Harborne are having a Prayer Gathering on Wednesday 21 January at 8pm, St John's Church. Birmingham, Cotteridge: During Christian Unity Week there will be a service at the Cotteridge Church (an ecumenical partnership of The Methodist Church, The Church of England and United Reform Church) on Wednesday 21 January at 11am. Birmingham, Northfield: Father Cecil Rogerson, at weekday Masses, will be reading from and expounding parts of the Decree on Ecumenism, and Ut unum sint. Worcestershire: Parishioners at St Joseph’s, Malvern will mark the end of the Week of Prayer by joining with other Christians at Holy Trinity Church, Malvern on Sunday 25 January at 4pm. The preacher will be Reverend Liz Harris, Superintendent Minister of the South Worcestershire Methodist Circuit. There will be a pop-up/scratch choir open to all with a practice in the afternoon at 3pm. All are welcome. Oxfordshire, Bicester: Ecumenical service at St Edburg’s Church, Causeway, Wednesday 21 January 7.30 pm. Staffordshire, Newcastle-under-Lyme: There will be a service at Newcastle Baptist Church on Sunday 18 January at 6.30pm. More information and access resources March 2025: Celebrating the World Day of Prayer in Harborne On Friday 7 March, Harborne’s World Day of Prayer committee celebrated the 2025 Service at St Mary’s Church, Harborne. They were joined by some children from St Mary’s Primary School, including members of the spirituality council. Many members of several of the Christian communities in Harborne were also present, including the Reverend Peter Maycock, the Minister of Harborne Baptist Church. The service had been arranged by women of the Cook Islands, and the altar was decorated with a colourful display of that country, including small canoes which had been made by the children of St Mary’s school. Each year, the World Day of Prayer Service is composed by women from across the world, and the ladies of the Cook Islands took great care in arranging a service that was very appropriate for them. Many people spoke afterwards of the joy, simplicity and peace that they had felt. For many people one of the great blessing of this service is that it takes place across the world, so that indeed “hour by hour fresh lips are making they wondrous doings heard on high”. Thanks are due to all the parishioners of St Mary’s who supported us in many ways, both musically and in more practical ways (the tea and biscuits were wonderful!). Everyone is looking forward to next year's Service, which is being written by the ladies of Nigeria. Jane Lavery, St Mary’s Harborne February 2025: World Day of Prayer, Friday 7 March A women-led, global, ecumenical movement. This year's theme is: 'I made you wonderful' and the day will be led by sisters in The Cook Islands. World Day of Prayer is an international, ecumenical organisation which enables us to hear the thoughts of women from all parts of the world: their hopes, concerns and prayers. It is celebrated in over 120 countries. It begins in Samoa and prayer in native languages travels throughout the world — through Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas before finishing in American Samoa some 38 hours later. A worldwide wave of prayer… Check your local church or the World Day of Prayer website for details of services. January 2025 An article from Barbara Davies – Ecumenical Representative (Churches Linked Across Staffordshire and the Potteries) Immediately after the events in Southport last summer, several towns witnessed social unrest and public expression of racial and religious hatred. Stoke-on-Trent was no exception, and local Muslim communities and mosques were targeted – by some local people and some organised groups from outside the area. Local Christians, coordinated by Lloyd Cooke, chief executive of Saltbox, and Ecumenical Officer Robert Mountford, who work closely with local police and local councillors (several of them Muslim) quickly organised a meeting of support and solidarity. After a time of general introductions and chat, we heard personal stories from Muslim city councillors and the local Police Commissioner who had all received threats from various sources. Towards the end of our time, three statements were read by representatives, focusing on commitments to community integration and peace, and this was followed by a time of silence, and the lighting of candles. A second meeting followed some weeks later. Running alongside these meetings, local police and female Muslim leaders had been concerned to discover how the threats of violence had affected Muslim women. It was suggested that a forum be created to allow women from all sections of the community to express their needs, concerns and current situations, especially those who voices were not often heard in the public forum. This forum called 'Women’s Voices' met in mid-November. Women from a large number of charities, community groups and the local police, health service, fire service and local government were in attendance, as well as Muslim women in various key positions (including 'stay at home' mothers of large families). The meeting was very well organised, and a most moving opportunity to learn from each other. Interestingly, the meeting attracted more Catholics than I am used to seeing at ecumenical events. One Muslim woman shared a story about a male co-worker who offered personal support on the day of the riots – I was delighted to discover it was my own son! Friendship and understanding grew as a result of this opportunity, and it was a chance to reflect that, when we meet with non-Christians, our denominational differences are not important or helpful! The mutual desire to get to know each other better was confirmed when two of the Muslim ladies asked if, for educational reasons, they could attend one of our Catholic services. I am in the process of organising this. An article from Joshua Penduck, Rector of Newcastle-under-Lyme. After spending time building up good relationships with our local ecumenical clergy, I was delighted that our local Anglican Rector of Newcastle-under-Lyme expressed an interest in visiting our Catholic and ecumenical charismatic prayer group at St Teresa's, Trent Vale. What follows is his response. Submitted by Barbara Davies Commission for Promoting Christian Unity (Staffordshire representative). I'm an Anglican priest, but I come from a long line of Pentecostal pastors. I have been deeply nourished by both traditions. This means I have two sides of my soul: 1) the sacramental and liturgical, which values tradition, silence, and ritualised physical gestures (such as the sign of the cross and genuflection) and 2) the exuberant and improvisatory, which values praying through contemporary song and glossolalia. Ne’er the twain shall meet, it seems. In the Church of England, when it does meet it tends to be amongst the radical liberal wing, where their doctrine is suspect. However, my training incumbent had been inspired by the Catholic Charismatic Movement, so I always wondered how these two spiritualities could co-exist. As such, when I discovered at an ecumenical meeting that a member of the local Catholic congregation was part of a charismatic prayer group, I thought, ‘I need to see how this works.’ At the beginning, the prayer meeting could have been something out of my Pentecostal youth: singing simple praise choruses, followed by slower devotional choruses, amid moments of ‘singing in the Spirit’ and gentle speaking in tongues. I enjoyed praising alongside traveller family, most of whom, who I later discovered, were able to enter into the presence of God uninhibited by the need to read. However, what followed was a time of contemplative silence, concluding with the Gloria Patri and the sign of the Cross. A simple talk was then followed by a time of sharing with one another how the Lord had been present in their lives; after that a time of praying for one another, in which I was once again reminded that I was in a Catholic service – the lady praying for me said, ‘May the Mother of God, the angels and all the saints pray for you.’ It was like the two sides of my soul had come together. Josh Penduck, Rector of Newcastle-under-Lyme Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Saturday 18 - Saturday 25 January Information and Resources Services for Week of Prayer for Christian Unity February 2024: World Day of Prayer, Friday 1 March A women led, global, ecumenical movement. This year's theme is: “I beg you, bear with one another in love”. In the parish of Blessed Carlo Acutis in Wolverhampton two services are planned. The first is at St Benedict Biscop church, Wombourne at 2pm and the second is at St Michael's at 7pm. Services will be taking place in locations around the globe on that day too where all Christians will be praying for the women and families of Palestine, the chosen country for 2024. Ann Bayley, a member of the Commission, shares an article with us: World Day of Prayer August 2023: A Reflection on the Good Friday Walk of Witness One of the four themes of the Diocesan Vision is Evangelisation, encouraging others to know God’s love for them. A powerful witness to the love Jesus has for his people is made annually by thousands of Christians in the Good Friday Walk of Witness. In this public sign of Christian unity, in the heart of their communities, people from different denominations retell the crucifixion story, and attest to the sacrifice Jesus made for our salvation. Read article in full September 2022: Journeying Together A Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication in celebration of the 60th Anniversary of the Chapel of Unity, Coventry Cathedral. DOWNLOAD booklet An address from Pope Francis on Ecumenism, May 2022 "one cannot think of journeying on the path of faith without the company of brothers and sisters from other Churches or ecclesial communities." Read full address Please contact us The Commission exists to support and encourage anyone involved in this mission. If you would like to discuss anything connected with this, or an ecumenical project, please contact one of us. We will be delighted to help. The Catholic Church in England and Wales is a member of Churches Together. This is a national ecumenical instrument supporting and encouraging churches from a wide range of traditions to work together in unity. The Ecumenical Commission operates within this framework. We work with a wide range of contacts in all the major Church communities. Commission Members and contact details Chair: Deacon Nick St. John Email: [email protected] Phone: 07450 294036 Secretary: Deacon David Fairbotham Email: [email protected] Phone: 07948 379545 Birmingham Churches Together Deacon Peter Middleton Email: [email protected] Phone: 07752 229704 Deacon David Fairbotham Email: [email protected] Phone: 07948 379545 Black Country Churches Engaged Ann Bayley Email: [email protected] Phone: 01902 421567 Coventry and Warwickshire Janet Wiltshire Email: [email protected] Phone: 07794 249097 Janet Ward Email: [email protected] Phone: 07802 413887 Chapel of Unity, Coventry Cathedral: contact Janet Ward, above. Churches together in Oxfordshire Deacon Nick St John Email: [email protected] Phone: 07450 294036 Churches Linked Across Staffordshire and the Potteries (CLASP) Barbara Davies Email: [email protected] Phone: 07401 201272 Churches Together in Worcestershire Dr Christine Dodd Email: [email protected] Phone: 07596 557368 Other Members Fr Kevin Kavanagh Email: [email protected] Phone: 01675 463939 Write to the Ecumenical Commission Deacon David Fairbotham, Diocesan Ecumenical Officer, St Dunstan’s Church, 6 Kingsfield Rd, King's Heath, Birmingham B14 7JN. Or email: [email protected]
Historic Churches Committee Committee for Art and Architecture Expand Committee for Art and Architecture Read the Historic Churches Committee Guide on the ‘Care of Churches’ The Committee meets on the third Thursday of January, March, May, July, September and November. Applications for work in Listed Churches should be sent to the Executive Secretary at least six weeks before the meeting. Faculty applications for works in unlisted churches should be sent at least two weeks before the meeting. Chairman Right Rev Mgr Patrick Kilgarriff St George’s Presbytery1 Sansome PlaceWorcesterWR1 1UG [email protected] 01905 22574 Executive Secretary Reverend Paul O’Connor, BA (Hons), BPL, MRTPIHead of Planning Archdiocese of BirminghamSt George’s Catholic Church1 Sansome PlaceWorcester, WR1 1UGTel: 07944 803701/ 0121 230 6270
Inter Religious Dialogue Commission Expand Who we are Chair Patricia Whitney Tel: 0121 406 3650 / 07790 716887 [email protected] Members of the Diocesan Commission Mauricio Silva - Fatima House & Acocks Green Fr Ray Collier - Knowle Eric Pearse - Wolverhampton Fr J Nicholas Latham - Northfields Cathy Wattebott - Coventry Margaret O’Leary - Stoke-on-Trent Sr Anna O’Connor, SSP, Selly Park Pat Whitney - Smethwick
Justice and Peace Commission Expand Birmingham Justice and Peace website [email protected] Justice & Peace Administrator Janet Vaughan701 Earlsdon ParkAlbany RoadCoventryCV5 6NB Chairman Rev Gerard Murray STLSacred HeartAlwyn RdBiltonRugbyWarwickshireCV22 7QTTelephone: 01788 813263
Liturgical Commission Expand Chairman Rev Paul McNally, S.T.LOscott CollegeChester RoadSutton ColdfieldB73 5AA
Social and Racial Justice Commission Expand Contact C/OSt Francis of Assisi Church and Centre101 Hunters RoadHandsworthBirminghamB19 1EB
Women of the Diocese Women of the Diocese is a group for all women of the Diocese, supporting each other in their ministries across parish, home and work. Expand Women of the Diocese is a group for all women of the Diocese, supporting each other in their ministries across parish, home and work. Sr Margaret Walsh and Suzanne O'Malley - [email protected] Women's Day of Reflection 2018 Women's Day of Reflection 2019
Harvington Pilgrimage 2026 - Sunday 6 September Expand Harvington Pilgrimage Committee Chair: Michael Jones Parish Priest: Rev Fr Richard Sharples Treasurer: Vacant Address for Correspondence: Fr Sharples, St Mary’s Presbytery, Harvington, Kidderminster, DY10 4LR Any queries related to the Pilgrimage should be directed to: [email protected] 2026 Pilgrimage, Sunday 6 September 1.45 – 2.30pm: Confession3pm: Holy Mass Free timed tours of Harvington Hall are available on the day and can be booked upon arrival. Further details to be announced. Look back at the 2025 Pilgrimage The principal celebrant was Archbishop Bernard Longley. Words, photographs and videos from 2025
Hednesford Pilgrimage 2026 - Sunday 5 July Expand Hednesford Pilgrimage Committee Chair: Fr Jeremy Howard Liturgical advisor: Bishop Timothy Menezes Hednesford Pilgrimage 2026 - Sunday 5 July 1pm: Refreshments available 2.15 - 3.45pm: Confessions3pm: Rosary4pm: Holy Mass with the Sacrament of the Sick Celebrant - Bishop David Evans. Please bring your own chair! Photo Gallery 2025
Diocesan Pilgrimage to the Holy Land Next pilgrimage TBA Expand The last pilgrimage was led by Bishop David McGough from 3 - 11 September 2019, with Canon Mervyn Tower as Spiritual Director. It was an opportunity to join the family of the Archdiocese on pilgrimage to the Holy Land with four nights in Bethlehem and three nights in Tiberius. This included a full spiritual, scriptural and educational programme, daily Mass at different Shrines and all entrance fees. For details of future pilgrimages please contact Canon Mervyn Tower on 01865 762433.
Littlemore (Oxfordshire) Where Saint John Henry Newman lived, and was received into the Church. Expand LITTLEMORE (Oxfordshire) Newman Friends International ‘The College’ where Saint John Henry Newman lived from 1842 to 1846, and was received into the Church, is open from Monday to Friday from 10.30am to 12noon and from 2pm to 5pm, on Saturdays from 2pm to 5pm, and on the 1st and 3rd Sunday (May - October) from 2pm to 5pm. Visitors are welcome to Newman’s room and oratory and to a museum and library for Newman studies and research. A Novena to St John Henry Newman was recently published. Access Novena For further details and other arrangements - celebration of Mass, guided tours and/or talks for groups, school parties, private retreats (four rooms available), use of the library for academic purposes, information and arrangements for visiting places connected with Newman in Oxford - please contact: The International Centre of Newman Friends, c/o The Society of the Work, Ambrose Cottage, 9 College Lane, Littlemore, Oxford, OX4 4LQ. Tel: 01865 779743 email: [email protected] website: Newman Friends International There is a regular Mass in the Newman Chapel on Fridays at 9am and a Holy Hour on Wednesdays from 7.45pm to 8.45pm.
Lourdes Pilgrimage 2026 - Monday 25 to Saturday 30 May Expand Lourdes Pilgrimage Committee Chairman: Bishop David Evans Vice-chair: Fr Anthony Rohan Pilgrimage Director: Fr Jeremy Howard Treasurer: Mr M Williams Birmingham Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2026 Monday 25 to Saturday 30 May The annual Diocesan pilgrimage will be returning to Lourdes under the leadership of His Grace, Archbishop Bernard Longley and Bishop David Evans. Please pray for all those considering joining next year’s pilgrimage to Lourdes, as they will be praying for you. Lourdes Information and Sign Up to Mailing List Lourdes Pilgrimage Office:Tel: 0121 230 6288Address: Lourdes Pilgrimage OfficeCathedral HouseSt Chad’s QueenswayBirminghamB4 6EXEmail: [email protected] Please Note: Any enquiries relating to booking a place as an assisted pilgrim staying in the Accueil should be made to the Lourdes office at either [email protected] or [email protected]
Walsingham Pilgrimage 2026 - Saturday 9 May Expand Pilgrimage committee Pilgrimage Director: Fr Philip Griffin [email protected] [email protected] Telephone: 01384 395 308 2026 Diocesan Pilgrimage - Saturday 9 May Click here for full details The Shrine website provides detailed information about Walsingham and its significance as the National Shrine to Our Lady and a place of pilgrimage in pre-reformation England. Pilgrim Guide 2026 Pilgrimage Enquiries Fr Philip Griffin Our Lady and All SaintsNew RoadStourbridgeWest MidlandsDY9 1PQ 01384 395308 [email protected]
Sunday 26 Lourdes Day One Expand Sunday opening Mass 6th sunday of easter Theme: Good News to the Poor- we come in our poverty to experience a taste of the kingdom, here in Lourdes We begin our pilgrimage on Sunday, the Lord's Day, and the Day of the Resurrection. In fact, our whole pilgrimage this year takes place in the joy of the Easter Season and will include the Feast of the Ascension of the Lord on Thursday and the Visitation of Our Lady to her cousin Elizabeth on Friday. This year's theme in Lourdes, Blessed are the Poor, will be a time for us to reflect on our own awareness of poverty around us especially in our own communities at home, and the call to see Christ most of all in those who are in need. But on this week of pilgrimage, we are also invited to recognise the areas of poverty in our own lives, and to seek the riches of the life of heaven to influence our daily lives. With the joy of the redeemed children of God, let us begin our pilgrimage week. Bishop David McGough Homily Filling Eglise St Bernadette Cote Grotte for Opening Mass Processional for Welcome Mass Thanks to our young people Lucy Mitchell Student Nurse Ethan Jennings Aged 17 Photo Gallery