2018.06.28 - Columba Magazine Summer 2018 digital

SUMMER 2018

Knights of St Columba www.ksc.org.uk

serve god by serving others

TM

2 A World-wide Campaign Columba - Summer 2018

The Rosary - A Chain of Prayer

Bringing communities together to combat evil across the world

In the Catholic Church, the Rosary is one saints, the forgiveness of sins, the part reads: “Blessed art thou among
of the most cherished prayers. For the resurrection of the body, and the life women, and blessed is the fruit of the
Knights of St Columba and our faith, it is everlasting. Amen.” womb, Jesus.” This was what Mary’s
a powerful prayer of intercession to the cousin Elizabeth said to her in Luke 1:42.
Blessed Mother. Praying the Rosary is Other Christian denominations, when The only thing that has been added to
promoted as a means of strengthening they say the prayer, refer to the (lower- these two verses is the names “Jesus”
one’s faith, resisting evil, growing cased) “holy catholic church,” using and “Mary.” The second part of the Hail
spiritually, and generally benefiting “catholic” to refer to the universal church, Mary is not taken straight from Scripture,
society. not implying any connection with the but it is biblical in the thoughts it
(upper-case) Catholic Church, which is expresses. It reads: “Holy Mary, Mother of
On Saturday, 16th June, the Supreme based in Rome. This is despite the fact God, pray for us sinners, now and at the
Knight, Bertie Grogan, launched a ten day that the term “Catholic” was already used hour of death. Amen.”
campaign - “The Rosary - A Chain of to refer to a particular, visible Church by
Prayer”, commencing on Monday, 6th the second century and has already lost The fourth prayer in the rosary is the
August, the Feast Day of the its broader meaning of “Universal”. Glory Be, sometimes called the Gloria or
Transfiguration of the Lord, through to Despite these differences, the Christian Gloria Patri. This reads:
Wednesday, 15th August, the Assumption faith embrace the Apostles’ Creed without “Glory be to the Father, and to the Son,
of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Solemnity). reluctance, seeing it as embodying basic and the Holy Spirit. As is it was in the
Christian truths as they understand them. beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
The intention of this campaign is to world without end. Amen.” The Gloria is a
bring parishes and Christian communities The next prayer in the Rosary is the Our brief of praise in which all Christians can
together, not just at local level, but Father or the Pater Noster (from its join.
throughout the world, to pray together to opening words in Latin). This is also
combat the specific evils of abortion and known as the Lord’s Prayer. This prayer Finally, the Rosary ends with the
euthanasia. is even more acceptable to Christian closing prayer. This is called the Hail
faiths because Jesus Himself taught it to Queen (Salve Regina), sometimes called
The word Rosary comes from Latin and His disciples. It is given in the Bible in two the Hail Holy Queen. It is the most
means a garland of roses, the rose being slightly difference versions, the first commonly recited prayer in the praise of
one of the flowers used to symbolise the referenced in Matthew 6:9-13 and the Mary, after the Hail Mary itself. It
Virgin Mary. If you were to ask what second referenced in Luke 11:2-4. The generally reads:
object is most emblematic of Catholics, one given in Matthew is the one “Hail Holy Queen, Mother of mercy, our
people would probably say, “The Rosary.” commonly said. life, our sweetness, and our hope! To
Catholics ask the Blessed Mother to bring thee do we cry, poor banished children of
their prayers to Her Divine Son, Jesus, The following prayer in the Rosary is Eve. To thee do we send up our sighs,
and plead for His aid. Catholics bring the Hail Mary which is really at the centre mourning and weeping in this vale of
Rosary intentions to Mary with the hope of the devotion. It is a prayer to Mary. tears. Turn, then, most gracious
that their request will be answered. While many Christian denominations advocate, thine eyes of mercy towards
assume it’s unbiblical, it does have roots us, and after this our exile show unto us
The Rosary is a devotion in honour of in Scripture. The prayer begins, “Hail the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O
the Virgin Mary. It consists of a set Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.” clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.”
number of specific prayers. First are the This is the same greeting the Angel
introductory prayers: one Apostles’ Creed Gabriel gave Mary in Luke 1:28. The next One of the keys to praying the Rosary
(Credo), one Our Father (the Pater Noster is to understand that it is a form of
or the Lord’s Prayer), three Hail Mary’s mediation. When Catholics recite the
(Ave’s) and one Glory Be (Glori Patri). twelve prayers that form a decade of the
Rosary, they are meditating on the
The first prayer in the Rosary is the mystery associated with that decade. If
Apostles’ Creed. It is called the Apostles’ they merely recite the prayers, whether
Creed not because it was composed by vocally or silently, they’re missing the
the apostles themselves, but because it essence of the Rosary.
expresses their teachings. The original
form of the creed came into use around The Rosary is still the easiest ways to
A.D. 125, and the present form dates acquire the ancient skills of meditative
from the 400s. It reads: prayer, and it is believed by Catholics to
“I believe in God, the Father Almighty, be the most effective way to gain the
Creator of heaven and earth, and in graces that this way of prayer can obtain.
Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who While almost every Catholic owns a
was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of Rosary, not all Catholics know how to
the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius pray this prayer of intercession. If you are
Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. Catholic and confused about how to best
He descended into hell. The third day He use the Rosary, there are many online
arose again from the dead. He ascended resources, including apps you can
into heaven and is seated at the right download for little to no cost. Try a few
hand of the Father. From thence He shall different versions that work best for you
come to judge the living and the dead. I and join us in our world-wide campaign -
believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy “The Rosary - A Chain of Prayer.”
Catholic Church, the communion of

Columba - Summer 2018 The Supreme Knight 3

The Board of Directors Tell our story share our dream to “die with dignity” then off to the
2018 — 2019 Supreme Court and so far being told NO.

Supreme Knight But they continue nibbling away at our
laws, until one day…..who knows? All
Bro. Bertie M. Grogan being funded by whom…… again, from
within or without?
Ecclesiastical Adviser
Secularism…… That new style
Most Rev. Malcolm McMahon OP secularism. A fancy name for those
people who think they do not need God.
Archbishop of Liverpool Those people who want to do away with
religion…… all religion. They believe this
Immediate Past Supreme Knight constant drip-feeding of their ideas is
better than millennia of religions.
Bro. Charlie McCluskey KSG
The space afforded me is too small to
Deputy Supreme Knight tell of the Catholic Church’s great
and education policy given freely over the last
100 years in these islands. We should be
Supreme Director for loudly proclaiming this. We need to stand
Communications & Media up to our attackers by publicly
campaigning for our true values.
Bro. Joseph C. Rodriguez
“The Rosary - A Chain of
Supreme Director for Abortion…… Euthanasia…… Prayer” is initiated to wage
Spirituality & Welfare Secularism…… These are words we a war of Prayer against all
hear day in day out, from all parts of our these. We ask that over 10
Bro. Michael Malone great nation. days in August, 6th – 15th
we across our Order will
Supreme Director for Why is this now happening to our pray the Rosary.
Youth society? Why is our religion being
systematically attacked? Perhaps this has We are hoping we will be
Bro. Terry Conneely been happening for some time and it is helped in this by all
reaching new heights or lows. Catholic organisations
Supreme Director for across the UK. Indeed, with
Membership & Development Abortion…… We see the Island of Saints the Papal visit to Ireland, it
and Scholars throwing out all reasoning is even more appropriate.
Bro. Brian Henry and bringing in abortion — Why?
We have also asked our Brother Orders
Supreme Director for Are we seeing the breakup of our across the world, via the International
Finance society, from within or without and what Alliance of Catholic Knights (IACK) to
forces are at work? Each day we are support us to commit to a true Chain
Bro. John Carter bombarded by the people in power around the World. Let us Pray.
advising us but never telling how it is.
Supreme Director for Centenary 2018 – 2019
Action & Social In Scotland we recently marched,
proclaiming our objections to 50 years of Indeed it is coming closer with Supreme
Bro. Harry Welsh abortion. Council starting October 19th 2018.

Director The late Cardinal Winning, who railed At the closing of Supreme Council we
against abortion, worked hard and will have our opening Mass of our
Bro. John Campolini founded the Sisters of the Gospel of Life. Centenary Year. Many Provinces and
These truly great Sisters spend their time Councils across the country are marking
Director advising and helping women to make the this great event in our Order over the
correct decision. We, the Knights of St coming year.
Bro. Brian Lafferty Columba support them in many ways.
Indeed it would be marvellous if in every Looking back over 100 years from our
Director diocese in our country we had a matching founding to where we are now, the work
group doing the same work…. God’s we continue to do, the Brothers and
Bro. Sean Mulligan work. The Order also supports the work of families who have helped us, but also the
both SPUC in England and Scotland. Brothers that this great Order have helped
Director Their profile has been very high over the along the way, we must keep on with our
years. great task.
Bro. Sean Smith
Euthanasia…… The dreaded spectre of We continue to “Tell Our Story, Share
Produced by euthanasia is now creeping into all walks Our Dream” with pride across Scotland,
The Knights of St Columba of our life. The society’s name before England, Wales and the Channel Islands.
75 Hillington Road South using the word “euthanasia” was dying
Glasgow, Scotland. G52 2AE with dignity…… how is killing Bertie M Grogan
Telephone : 0141 883 5700 oneself…..dying with dignity? Off to Supreme Knight
Email : [email protected] Switzerland they go, to what…... one
Website : www.ksc.org.uk asks.

Editor Each week we see in England people
Tom Knight applying to the High Court to be allowed

Please note the articles submitted for this publication are
for interest and information purposes only and are not
necessarily the opinion of the Editor or the
Order of the Knights of St Columba

4 The KSC’s Ecclesiastical Adviser Columba - Summer 2018

Five great expressions of love for God and neighbour

Address by Archbishop Malcolm McMahon OP to the PGK / Board of Directors’ Meeting in April

In chapter 5 of his new Apostolic is no sign of holiness. Sadness can be a God face to face, where the quiet voice of
exhortation, Gaudete et Exsultate, Pope sign of ingratitude for God’s gifts. Today’s the Lord can be heard. In that silence, we
Francis speaks about “certain aspects of individualistic and consumerist culture can discern the paths of holiness to which
the call to holiness that I hope will prove does not dispense real joy; consumerism the Lord is calling us. For each disciple, it
especially meaningful”, in the form of “five only bloats the heart. is essential to spend time with the Master,
great expressions of love for God and to listen to his words, and to learn from
neighbour that I consider of particular 3: Boldness and passion him always.
importance in the light of certain dangers Holiness is also parrhesía: boldness, an
and limitations present in today’s culture.” God enters our history, and so our
impulse to evangelise and to leave a prayer is interwoven with memories.
1: Perseverance, patience and mark in this world. “Boldness and Think of your own history when you pray,
meekness. apostolic courage are an essential part of and there you will find much mercy.
mission.” If we dare to go to the fringes,
This describes the inner strength, we will find Jesus already there, in the Prayer of supplication is an expression
grounded in God, that makes it possible hearts of our brothers and sisters, in their of a heart that trusts in God and realises
to give a witness of constancy in doing wounded flesh, their troubles and their that it can do nothing of itself. Prayer of
good. We need to recognise and combat profound desolation. petition often calms our hearts and helps
our aggressive and selfish inclinations. us persevere in hope. Prayer of
Christians “can be caught up in networks More than bureaucrats and intercession is an act of trust in God and,
of verbal violence through the internet functionaries, the Church needs at the same time, an expression of love
and the various forums of digital passionate missionaries, enthusiastic for our neighbour.
communication.” Even in Catholic media, about sharing true life. The saints surprise
limits can be overstepped, defamation us, they confound us, because by their In the Eucharist, the written word attains
and slander can become commonplace. lives they urge us to abandon a dull and its greatest efficacy, for there the living
“It is striking that at times, in claiming to dreary mediocrity. The Holy Spirit allows Word is truly present.
uphold the other Commandments, they us to contemplate history in the light of
completely ignore the eighth, which the risen Jesus. In this way, the Church My dear brothers, I hope from what I
forbids bearing false witness or lying, and will not stand still, but constantly welcome have summarised from pope Francis’
ruthlessly vilify others.” the Lord’s surprises. words you will see the values of the
Knights of St Columba, and that you will
It is not good when we look down on 4: In community be encouraged in your vocation as
others like heartless judges, lording it Growth in holiness is a journey of living Knights. There are many difficulties in the
over them and always trying to teach Church and the world today, but these
them lessons. That is itself a subtle form and working in community with others. only make clearer the treasure we have in
of violence. Sharing the word and celebrating the the Order. Let us learn to value this even
Eucharist together fosters fraternity and more as we continue to grow in holiness.
Being on the path to holiness means makes us a holy and missionary
enduring “daily humiliations”, e.g. “those community. It also gives rise to authentic + Most Rev. Malcolm McMahon OP
who keep silent to save their families, and shared mystical experiences. Archbishop of Liverpool
who prefer to praise others rather than
boast about themselves, or who choose Such experiences, however, are less
the less welcome tasks, at times even frequent and important than small
choosing to bear an injustice so as to everyday things. Jesus asked his
offer it to the Lord.” To act in this way disciples to pay attention to small details:
“presumes a heart set at peace by Christ, wine running out at a party, a missing
freed from the aggressiveness born of sheep, a widow’s two small coins.
overweening egotism.” Sometimes we are granted, amid these
little details, consoling experiences of
2: Joy and a sense of humour God.
The saints are joyful and full of good
5: In constant prayer
humour. They radiate a positive and Trust-filled prayer of any length is a
hopeful spirit, even in hard times. Humour
response of a heart open to encountering

Council 93 Coventry hold recruitment drive By Brother Peter Sturgeon.

On Sunday, 13th May Council 93 Coventry carried out a
recruitment drive at St John Fisher Church. Members of the
Council attended all of the Masses to promote the Order and
encourage the Parishioners to get involved.

Council Spirituality and Welfare Officer, Brother Peter Sturgeon
said: “We spoke to several potential candidates after the Masses,
including Parishioners from Poland and the Philippines in an
attempt to encourage more representation from those nations.

“The Parish Priest, Father Bob Wright, a good supporter of the Parish Priest Fr. Bob Wright with the recruitment team after Mass
Knights for many years, allowed us to conduct a presentation to
attendees after each Mass.”

Columba - Summer 2018 Catholic Social Teaching 5

We face a legal and moral dilemma parts of these islands and failed. It has only to be introduced in
one part before the ramparts fall and it begins to be introduced
By Bro. Tony Britten KCSG, PSK everywhere.

There have been four events in the last few weeks which have During the Irish Referendum it was openly admitted that
highlighted the way in which we, as a society or societies, women, wanting abortion, were able to cross the to the other
consider life issues. island and that basically if they could do that why should they
not be allowed to stay at home and get the same service.
The first event happened across the Irish Sea when
two-thirds of those who voted in the Referendum voted to We are prepared, quite rightly to fight to try and ensure life is
remove the 8th Amendment and thereby the restrictions on preserved as fully as it may be within reason and in the face of
abortion. This of course was heralded by the secularists who medical knowledge although doctors might disagree and we
proudly proclaimed that the Irish Republic had thrown off the have to then take a moral judgement but now we are
shackles of the Catholic Church and entered the twenty-first approaching a time when I can decide when I want to die and
century. then we can predict a time when others will be able to take that
decision because we are incapable of thinking and deciding for
It is true that the Catholic Church opposed the move, in ourselves.
keeping with its teaching, but it also means that the
two-thirds majority are joining those confused souls in Assisted suicide and euthanasia
other areas, which allow abortion, in saying that life does
not begin at conception but at some undefined spot in the The whole question of assisted suicide and euthanasia with
future. its legal problems and complexities also arose in the case of a
prosecution of a woman for murder when she, by throwing acid
The second event was the sad case of Alfie Evans, the 23 over her lover, caused him so much pain and distress that he
month old Liverpool baby whose plight and perhaps, to a went to Belgium for euthanasia.
great extent, the plight of his parents, captured not only the
heart of the nation but the heart of the world. She was found not guilty of murder but was given a life
sentence on other charges connected with the assault. What it
As in all issues of this kind people were divided as to who first does show, however, is the legal and moral dilemma we face
of all had the legal right to make decisions as to what was in when we stop believing that all life is sacred and goes from the
fact the best action to take in the interest of the child. The moment of conception to natural death.
medical profession knew Alfie had a degenerative brain
condition even though they could not clearly diagnose what it The four cases illustrate in one way or another our attitude
was. In Liverpool the doctors came to the conclusion that there to life and death.
would be no possible improvement and that Alfie could never
recover. In one case we see, what I believe was the traditional attitude
to life and death. Parents and others fighting to the bitter end
The parents fought bravely for their child, as one would hope to protect and prolong a life. Doctors believing that they had
all parents would. Other medical teams, notably from the done everything they could, within their competence and
Bambino Gesu Hospital in Rome and with the blessing of Pope reason, to preserve that life and the Church leaders trying to
Francis were prepared to try alternative methods which Alder explain the decision as they believe the Christian moral code
Hey Hospital did not accept and which in their opinion would lays down.
further distress the child.
In another case, for expediency, we see the rejection of truth
You have to have great sympathy and logic as to where life actually begins.
for the Judge
In the other cases we see the future unless we are prepared
The Courts and you have to have great sympathy for the to take a firm moral stand. Assisted suicide, like abortion in the
Judge in the case, who had to make a judgment which was past, is on the horizon and if it is allowed the logical conclusion
going to be contested whichever way that judgement went. is euthanasia.

The Bishops of England and Wales reiterated the law of Then just as the reasons for granting abortion have, over the
the church that doctors are not obliged to go to extraordinary years, been grown and twisted to suit every eventuality, so will
lengths to preserve life and that in their opinion, they had the reasons for euthanasia if it is ever legalised.
every faith in the hospital and that it had done everything
humanly possible in Alfie's best interest.

How great a contrast to our first event where hundreds were
coming out and saying that the life of a child up to so many
weeks after conception is immaterial and can be disposed of
at a whim. Whereas once that same life has developed and
come to birth even if that life might fall into the category that
the abortionists claim to be a valid reason to terminate a life
must be fought for with doctors expected to go to
extraordinary lengths to allow that life to continue.

The sad thing about any such cases as these is that all
sides believe, in their heart of hearts, that they are doing the
best they can and are making the right decisions.

The third issue was in Guernsey where the idea of assisted
dying was debated in the Island’s Legislative Body. Let us not
mask the issue. This would be the first step towards
euthanasia. Its proponents have tried to introduce it in other

6 Around the Provinces Columba - Summer 2018

Stations of the Cross

A booklet created by Mr Nevitt and the students of St Benedict’s Catholic High School Whitehaven

As a Knight of St Columba I am called to, As most of you will be aware we have a Image of book
“serve God through serving others”. It is tradition of active involvement in youth
a phrase that we are all familiar with, but and action works in Council 74 The Stations are an example of popular
what does it truly mean? We live in a Whitehaven. Indeed we were awarded piety within the Church that have been
soundbite culture where people are good the Madonna Oakes trophy this year. handed down from one generation to the
at talking the talk, but as Knights we are Most years we have a prize winner in at next and it is an honour to play a small
called to walk the walk as well. St Teresa least one of the youth run competitions. part in this continued tradition. The words
of Avila sums it up best when she says, Indeed last year we had two winners in of these children can and should be an
“Christ has no body now but yours. No the national essay writing competition. inspiration to us all.
hands, no feet on earth but yours. Yours We have produced prayer booklets for
are the eyes through which he looks with several years that many of you have Can I take this opportunity to thank the
compassion on this world. Yours are the bought and we thank you for this and the many Councils and Provinces that have
feet with which he walks to do good. contribution that this money has made for already taken copies and encourage you
Yours are the hands through which he the most vulnerable members in our all to order a copy of the Stations of the
blesses all the world. Yours are the society. Cross book produced by Council 74 and
hands, yours are the feet, yours are the St Benedict’s Catholic High School?
eyes, you are his body. Christ has no This year we decided to take this a
body now on earth but yours.” step further and we commissioned a To reserve a copy please email
young artist for St Benedict’s Catholic Angela Banks at
As a Catholic organisation we rightly High School Whitehaven to create for us
focus on social action and campaign to a set of Stations of the Cross. Tyler [email protected]
change our relativistic society through Hartley has produced a set of provocative or ring and speak to Angela Banks on
effective lobbying and raising awareness images that are simple but are not
of the signs of our times. We raise simplistic. That inspires great prayer and 01946692275.
phenomenal amounts of money for local, reflection. The cost of the booklet is £4 plus P&P.
national and international charities. We
support prayer and spiritual events across With help and guidance the students of By Ian Nevitt,
the country and help and support our St Benedict’s produced a series of
clergy in their formation. But for me as a reflective prose to go along with the Grand Knight Council 74, Province 6.
Grand Knight, a member of Council 74, a pictures to further inspire reflection and
Knight and an educator, the work where worship at the foot of the stations. As
we really make a difference is with our Archbishop Malcolm McMahon states:
young people, because without our young
people there will be no next generation of “This traditional devotion has been
Knights to carry on our good work. transformed into a modern form of
worship - for use throughout the year.”

A blessing from the past for Council 110 Province 16
installation of officers
Facebook can be a good thing.
On the evening of Friday, 9th March,
A former Burnley man, Geoff Durkin, got Supreme Director for Membership Brother
in touch with Council 110 Burnley via the Brian Henry installed the Provincial Officers
social media site to say that he had come of Province 16 Motherwell during a Mass in
across an Apostolic Blessing in favour of St Joseph’s Church, Blantyre.
his great Uncle, Emmanuel Gavin. The
Blessing was awarded in 1959 for Following the installation of officers
services to KSC Province 21. Provincial Grand Knight Brother Frank
Kelly installed the officers of the five
Research indicated that Manny Gavin Charter Councils in Province 16.
had been Grand Knight of Council 110 on
two occasions and died in 1970. By Tom Knight
Unfortunately, there are no records or
memories of the work undertaken by
Manny to be awarded the honour of an
Apostolic Blessing.

The Blessing has now been framed and
is displayed in the foyer of the Knights of
St Columba Council 110 Club, Burnley.

By Terry Hephrun

Pic 1: Provincial Officers (l-r)
The framed Blessing. Brothers Eddie Farrelly, Joe Docherty,
Pic 2: Supreme Director Brother Brian Henry,
Geoff Durkin presenting the Blessing to Provincial Grand Knight Brother Frank Kelly,
Council 110 Grand Knight, Trevor Ireland, Brothers John Sankus, Tony McDougall,
and Steve Hird, Spirituality and Welfare
Officer . Michael Healy, and Tom Knight.
Picture by Brother James Hoey

Columba - Summer 2018 Around the Provinces 7

The Wayside Shrine - 60 years on

By Tony Parrini, Secretary, Council 60 Carlisle

The Wayside Shrine at the corner of the at the Waterloo Inn on the way home! In Prayers at the Shrine.
A69 and Wetheral Plains Road near June 1957 the Crucifix was blessed in the
Carlisle is believed to been erected just Church of Our Lady and St Joseph and The Walk of Witness.
over 60 years ago, in 1957. Every Good positioned at the site. who took the opportunity of thanking the
Friday since then, a Walk of Witness has Knights of St Columba for their work
taken place from Our Lady and St Thus it was probably 60 years ago, on associated with the annual walk.
Joseph’s Catholic Church to the shrine, a Good Friday, 1958 that the first Walk of
distance of about three and a half miles. Witness took place and, apart from a
possible break in 1977 when the Shrine
The Wayside Shrine was originally was being restored in the style it is today
established by members of the Carlisle after falling to the ground due to the
Group of the Cell Movement who elements, a walk has taken place every
campaigned in early post war years for Good Friday.
Christmas Cribs, religious Christmas
Cards and other projects to maintain Whilst the early walks were organised
Christianity in the community. by the Carlisle Cell Movement, since their
disbandment, Council 60 Carlisle of the
In 1956, Mrs Elwes of Warwick Hall Knights of St Columba has taken over
gave permission for the Wayside Shrine responsibility for the upkeep and
to be established. Work began after maintenance of the Wayside Shrine and
funds were raised and planning consent for organising the Good Friday Walks of
obtained. Witness.

It is not known how long the project This year, about 80 people from all
took, but records indicate that site work denominations took part and on reaching
was done at weekends during the hot the Wayside Shrine joined in a short
summer months and refreshments taken service led by Rev. Michael Docherty,

A cheque for Kirkcaldy food bank Kingdom of Fife Council 981
support Levenmouth soup kitchen
In March this year Brother Brian Beaton, Grand Knight of Council
981 Kingdom of Fife visited the Kirkcaldy Food Bank and Early this year Brother Brian Beaton Worthy Grand Knight of
presented a cheque to committee members in support of their Council 981 and his Deputy Grand Knight (Secretary) Brother
efforts. Stuart Robertson attended to present a cheque to
representatives of St Agatha’s RC Church, Methil for the
proposed setting up of a soup kitchen in the Levenmouth area.

By Brian Beaton, Council 981

Brother Brian Beaton presenting a cheque from Council 981 Handing over a cheque to representatives of St Agatha’s Church.
to the secretary of the Kirkcaldy Food Bank.

Leave a Legacy…….
…….. Remember the Knights in your Will.
Have you ever considered leaving the Knights of St Columba a legacy in your Will?
If you have already made a Will, but you want to leave a legacy to the Knights of St Columba
you can make an addition or change to it without re-writing your current Will. This is called a Codicil.

Please note however that a Codicil is not legally binding on its own and has to be part of your main Will. We advise you seek the advice of a solicitor.

8 Around the Provinces Columba - Summer 2018

A big day for Thames Valley Council 984

By Tony Berkley, Grand Knight Thames Valley Council 984.

A unique occasion for this new Council. PGK Brother Rosario Fichardo with Father Jones, Supreme Knight Brother Bertie Grogan
The 24th March was the first official and Grand Knight Brother Tony Berkeley
celebration of our new council. This was
the day our new Charter was presented to postponed to the Sunday 10:00 Mass, produced a really wholesome variety of
the Council by the Supreme Knight Bro. giving us a better opportunity to publicise soups every Friday following morning
Bertie Grogan as the Presiding Officer. the Knights and ask for new members. Mass and Stations of the Cross. The
offerings box passed round after each
The event took place at the Wednesday The new council is now planning a week’s soup produced £262.19 for the
evening Mass at St Francis in Ascot, recruitment drive at St Francis during Missio project for which we are very
where we welcomed the Provincial Grand May, where we hope to interest a couple grateful.
Knight Bro Rosario Fichardo and the more brothers to join. This is now
Provincial Treasurer and Administration important as the boundary area covered The month of May is going to be a very
officer Bro. Julien Melville who carried out by Council 984 extends from Reading in busy month for us. Not only are we
the duties of Master of Ceremonies. the west to Ascot and Bracknell in the planning a recruitment drive, but we are
east and to Windsor, Maidenhead and also organising the annual walk at Saville
The new officers for 2018/9 were Stains in the south, with over eight Garden, Virginia Water, in aid of the
installed at this Mass which was attended Parishes that will need to be serviced, Thames Valley Hospice and Fr Jones’s
by members of the local community. and hopefully where we can draw new Burma Orphanage where he is a founder
Father Kevin Jones, who was the Parish members from. member.
Priest at St Francis until January 2017
and now retired to Maidenhead, The Knights organised enrolled people God willing with some new members
celebrated the Mass. This was a good to provide the Lenten Soup over the six and the enthusiasm of the new Council,
occasion to accept Father Jones as a weeks of Lent. We are very grateful for we should be able to deliver results all
Member of Honour and our new Council the Ladies (and their husbands) who round.
Chaplain.

The Mass was followed by a finger
buffet for the brothers and the members
of the community in the narthex. This
was a really good start, as following the
address by Bro Tony Berkeley, the new
Grand Knight for Council 984, after the
installation, a new member came forward
to show interest in the Knights and we will
be able to enrol him into the council in the
next couple of weeks, by the next
meeting.

We were also planning to have a dual
installation with Father Fr Kevin Bidgood,
the current Parish Priest at St Francis
who is also to be a Member of Honour
and Chaplain, but he was called away to
carry out penitentiary service at the
Crowthorne Parish. In a way this suited
us better because the ceremony was

Council 188 Accrington annual Stations of the Cross

By Brother Bernard Holden MBE JP, Grand Knight of Accrington Council 188

Each year Accrington Council 188 One of the Stations.
organise the Stations of the Cross on
Good Friday and the tradition was carried
on this year.

A 16 foot steel cross is erected each
year by members of the Council at the
summit of the hill overlooking Accrington.

The Stations start at the bottom of the The steel cross at the
hill and pupils from Mount Carmel summit of the hill.
(Roman Catholic) and St. Christopher’s
(Church of England) Schools read at
each station along the path to the
summit.

The event is well attended by the
Christian community in Hyndburn.

Columba - Summer 2018 Around the Provinces 9

A golden moment for Brother Jay Brown

By Tom Knight

On Friday, 20th April a Mass was held in
St Patrick’s Church, Coatbridge, marking
the Golden Jubilee of Brother Jay Brown,
a member of Council 520 Coatbridge.
Many Brothers from the Council and
Province 16 attended, together with
members of adjoining Provinces and
Immediate Past Supreme Knight Brother
Charlie McCluskey KSG.

Provincial Grand Knight of Province 16, Jay Brown with his family after the presentation.
Brother Frank Kelly, carrying out the
presentation said: “Now and again as a God gives us the opportunity to serve.
PGK you have very pleasant duties to We must take advantage of that
perform. Tonight is such an occasion. opportunity and for the past 50 years
“Brother Jay Brown has been Grand Brother Jay has been an example of how
Knight of Council 520 Coatbridge twice to take that opportunity.
and has held many other posts within the
Council. He has been a stalwart in the “We have too few such examples of Brother Jay with Immediate Past Supreme
Knights of St Columba and it gives me such service. I represent the previous Knight Brother Charlie McCluskey
great pleasure to present him with his Council Chaplains of which there are
Golden Jubilee Award, acknowledging 50 many. God invites us to celebrate this
years of service to the Order. As an occasion. We are all God’s people and
added bonus, this means he will never we have the opportunity to serve in
have to pay dues again.” Charity, Unity and Fraternity.

Brother Frank then read out a letter “This presentation recognises Jay’s 50
from Supreme Knight Brother Bertie years of service and the blessing he very
Grogan, congratulating Brother Jay on his richly deserves.”
award.
Following the Mass Council 520
Parish Priest of St Patrick’s, Father provided an excellent buffet and
Eamonn Sweeney, who concelebrated at refreshments in their club, adjacent to
the Mass, paid his own personal tribute to St Patrick’s Church.
Brother Jay, saying: “We are all called to
be disciples. I thank you for your witness
as a disciple of the Lord.

“All the Brothers should follow in your
footsteps. We need the laypeople for a
Church of all people. You are an army of
men acting to support the Clergy.”

Father Ian Bathgate SX, Chaplain of PGK Brother Frank Kelly presenting Pictures by Jim Hoey
Council 520 commented: “As we journey Brother Jay with his Golden Jubilee
along the road of life we are aware that Award, and Council 520 Grand Knight
Brother Des Hamill (Centre)

A fun evening with Brentwood Province 10

By Brother Damian Dillon

In March several Councils from Province 10 gathered for Mass The Brothers who were elevated to full Knighthood,
with our Provincial Chaplain Father Leslie. with Provincial Grand Knight Brother George Johnson.

During the Mass, which was well attended by both family and
friends, a number of our Brothers were elevated to full
Knighthood.

Following the service we gathered in the hall for a hearty
bowl of homemade soup, prepared by past Provincial Grand
Knight and retired Master Chef Brother Brian Dillon and then
we were led in a hotly contested but fun Provincial quiz hosted
by quizmaster and Provincial Grand Knight Brother George
Johnson.

With 10 teams battling it out, including a team from the
parish, Chingford Council 401 were victorious with both their
own Council team and their ladies team, and are looking
forward to the challenge of the Nationals in the Autumn.

10 Around the Provinces Columba - Summer 2018

Council 60 assists in the new beginnings for Welling Council 294
Newman Catholic School in Carlisle Presentations

By Brother Tony Parrini Back in December the Children of Our
Lady of the Rosary submitted entries to the
Following the floods and Storm Desmond the money locally; Parishes have pledged Nativity Painting Competition.
in 2015, Newman Catholic School in Car- to contribute, while Newman staff and
lisle was evacuated and abandoned. The students have held events, so far raising Unfortunately they did not win the
school has been temporally housed in a £3,000. In conjunction with Council 60, a Provincial or national competitions,
redundant primary school until a new concert and a grand draw held at the however the Brothers of Welling Council
school is built on a new site. After many Sands Centre in May raised 294 decided that every child is a winner
delays, for various reasons, the Order’s approximately £6,000. To date, funds and the council produced a certificate for
Council 60 and the Pupils and Staff of raised and banked are in the region of each entry, ensuring that every child was
Newman Catholic School in Carlisle were £15,000. Money has been pledged with thanked and encouraged. The council
delighted to welcome the new Bishop of conditions by various trusts and grant chose the top 4 entries and awarded prizes
Lancaster, Bishop Paul Swarbrick, to funders. There is still much to be done,
Carlisle on Friday, 8th June, when he but together with the school, the parishes After much discussion the council settled
on giving Postal Orders as it was agreed
blessed the new site of Newman Catholic and the pledges received so far, we are that we should not be giving the children
cash, and not all children have bank or
School and planted a cherry blossom tree confident that the new school chapel will saving accounts We decided on a £15 first
prize £10 for second and two third prizes
which will mark new beginnings for the be fully funded to be the focal point of the of £5.

school community. new school.”

Ms. Wall with the three children.

The certificates and Prizes were presented
by Brother Gerard Kinsella the Grand
Knight and Bro. Sean Mulligan (Director).

The school has a very busy schedule but

managed to squeeze us in to the
assembly on 18th June. This gave us the

opportunity to thank all of the children for

their hard work, and a big thank you to the

Bishop Paul Swarbrick with members of Council 60 after Mass on 8th June, 2018 head teacher and staff for their help, in
particular Ms. Wall for her input collecting

John McAuley, Headteacher of and collating the paintings for us.

Newman Catholic School said: “It is

wonderful to be able to welcome the Province 16 Knighthood Degree
Bishop, Trustees and representatives of
the Diocese of Lancaster, together with By Tom Knight
members of Knights of St Columba and On 20th June two Brothers in Province 16

the local community who have supported were raised to full Knighthood during

the school. These people will work with Mass at St Athanasius Church in Carluke.

us in the coming months as we build a Brother John Kelly from Council 246 The two new Knighthood degree Brothers
new school where our young people will Carfin and Brother Arthur McCarroll from in the centre of second row,
study and grow. It is fantastic news that Council 490 Blantyre received their with the Knighthood team,
we can now move on with our new Knighthood Degrees from Province 16
campus, ensuring that Catholic secondary Provincial Grand Knight Brother Frank Father Magill and Deacon Joe Gallagher.
education continues and develops in Kelly.
Carlisle in a modern and well-resourced
environment.” The Celebrant, Parish Priest Father

Bishop Paul also took the opportunity to Thomas Magill, assisted by Provincial to raise to Knighthood Brothers who had
meet and thank Council 60 Carlisle, who Chaplain Rev Deacon Joe Gallagher successfully completed their first year of
are working with the school to raise spoke during his Homily of the work service in our Order.
£75,000 for a new chapel at Newman carried out by the Knights of St Columba

School. and warmly welcomed all who attended Following the Mass and ceremony all
Tony Parrini, Council Secretary the service. who attended were treated to a fine repast

expressed delight with the response to the Provincial Grand Knight, Brother Frank in the Church Hall.

chapel fundraising campaign so far. He Kelly, thanked Father Magill for his kind Photograph by Jim Hoey
commented: “The focus has been to raise words and said it was “always a pleasure”

Columba - Summer 2018 Around the Provinces 11

A Quiet Weekend in Province 1 Glasgow By Paul J. Laird, Provincial Grand Knight, Glasgow Province 1

The month of June started with a Brothers from Province 1 carrying the canopy
sweltering heat wave that struck Glasgow through Glasgow, with Archbishop Tartaglia
and the West of Scotland, ensuring that
anything that we did was both hot and carrying the Blessed Sacrament.
tiring.
Brothers from Province 1 carrying the
On 1st of June we held an Installation canopy in Paisley, with Bishop Keenan
and Full Knighthood Ceremony in St
Mary's, Abercromby Street. carrying the Blessed Sacrament.

With a great turnout of support from Development Brian Henry and Provincial Three New Members
Brothers from throughout the Province Grand Knight Paul Laird led the Join Province 2
our Provincial Chaplain, Father Tom procession behind the Host with Brothers
Henry (now Canon Hendry) used his from Province 1 taking turns holding the On Sunday 29th April, during Mass at St
homily to speak to the assembled about canopy. Oswald’s Parish Church, Old Swan, three
the trials and pleasures of being a Knight new members were admitted to the Order.
of St Columba, Father Henry had been The Archbishop again showed his
ordained in St Mary's some 52 years appreciation for the work that the Knights They are Chaldrine Ekobe, Christopher
previously and said it was always do within the Archdiocese and Father Hunt and Terence McGough.
touching to return to where he feels a Ambrose said it was a privilege to be the
strong bond. Parish Priest at St Columba's with such a
strong link to the Order.
Coming into the order from Council 150
Renfrew were three gentlemen taking Although this has been a busy The new brothers in the centre
their first steps in a new adventure, weekend, the fraternity of the Brothers of the front row.
William Jamieson, James Kerr and Paul and the gratitude of the local parishes to
Shannon were welcomed into their local the work of the Brothers and the Order We extend a very warm welcome to them
Council and from Council 429 Barrhead a lessened the tiredness in the muscles and our thanks go to Parish Priest Father
new member Gerry Donaghy. Council 4 after what has been an extraordinary Mark Beattie for celebrating the Mass and
Glasgow East provided the membership weekend. for his participation in the Installation
team. Ceremony.
The help of the Brothers of Province 1
Being raised to Full Knighthood were makes the life of a PGK so much easier, We also appreciate the very warm
Declan Humphrey (Council 4 Glasgow and I would like to take this opportunity to welcome received from parishioners and all
East); Gavin Paul Kerr (Council 8 give a great big thank you to my Brothers concerned in the historic surroundings of
Clydebank); Charles Connor (Council 396 for their help to make the transition of a the beautiful St Oswald’s Parish Church.
King's Park); and Brian Gallagher rookie Provincial Grand Knight much
(Council 429 Barrhead) smoother.

The following day, Saturday 2nd June Pictures by Paul McSherry
was the annual Corpus Christi Procession
through Paisley. From St Mary's in the
West End we walked through the streets
of Paisley, led by Bishop John Keenan
(Bishop of Paisley) along the High Street
to St Mirin's Cathedral in the East End.

The Knights of Province 1 were
prominent throughout by carrying the
canopy over the Blessed Host. Mass
followed in the Cathedral with the Bishop
and there were many thanks professed to
the Knights for all their help.

On Sunday 3rd June it was the turn of
Glasgow's annual Procession. From
Glasgow University Chaplaincy where the
Glasgow University cell is based to St
Columba, Hopehill Road, Archbishop
Philip Tartaglia led a team of three,
including Fr. Ambrose Ohene and
Rev. Dominic Alih, to carry the Host
through the streets of Glasgow's West
End.

Immediate Past Supreme Knight
Brother Charlie McCluskey KSG,
Supreme Director for Membership and

12 Around the Provinces Columba - Summer 2018

Rosary round the Coast We show here examples from The Chapel, the smallest church in
Scotland, England Wales and the Britain is tiny, holding only 6 people but in
April 29th was a day of Pilgrimage and Channel Islands of the huge response the event about 15 people managed to
Prayer for the re-flourishing of our Faith, from members of the Knights of St squeeze in and approximately 30/35
for the grace to build a culture of Life and gathered outside, including several
for true Peace to reign in the hearts of all Columba throughout our land. passers-by who stopped and joined in.
peoples and Nations. So the congregation numbered about 50.
Motherwell Province 16
Recently the lay faithful of Poland and Carfin Council 246 Dating to the early 16th century, the
Ireland responded to what they sensed as chapel was built on the site of an older
a movement of the Holy Spirit, to gather Carfin Council 246 of Province 16 church by the Cistercian monks at the
around the coasts of their nations and gathered with local members of the Carfin local Abbey and is still in use today.
pray to Jesus, the Divine Mercy, for a Community at the Holy Ghost Fathers
renewal of faith and respect for human life Chapel to recite the Rosary. The Channel Islands Province 39
through the powerful intercession of Our Brothers then took part in a retreat, led by Jersey Council 216
Lady of the Rosary. Father Phil Marsh CSSp in the Holy In Jersey, the Southernmost part of the
Ghost Fathers (Spiritans) complex in British Isles, the Knights of St Columba
Inspired by this, a number of the lay Carfin. organised groups at four separate
faithful in the United Kingdom – locations around the Coast to pray the
throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Rosary.
the Channel Islands - felt the same urge
to respond. Rosary on the Coast, Carfin Le Hocq, Jersey

This initiative was enthusiastically taken Lancaster Province 7 and West Park, Jersey
up by the Knights of St Columba and in Salford Province 8 Corbiere, Jersey
many places throughout mainland United
Kingdom and the Channel Islands Brothers from Province 7 and Province
Brothers and their families were leading 8 came together with family and friends to
the Rosary or joining with other groups or pray the Rosary at the Ladyewell Shrine,
individuals who had been inspired by this Preston.
opportunity to ask Our Lady to intercede
on their behalf. The Ladyewell Shrine, Preston

The Rosary took place in around 300 North Wales Province 37 Corbiere, Jersey
locations, mainly on the coast, but Colwyn Bay Council 253
included many which were held inland for
those people who could not travel the For its part in this nationwide act of
considerable distances to the coast take reparation, Colwyn Bay Council 253
part. chose the ancient chapel of St. Trillo , a
6th-century saint who built his cell here on
The Rosary is Heaven’s most powerful the coastline of Rhos on Sea, a suburb of
weapon of choice by which to pray for the Colwyn Bay and a popular place for a
conversion of nations. Members of our Sunday stroll by the sea for both visitors
Order took part to witness that the power and locals.
of prayer can change lives. It is the
spiritual sword of our time. The intention The 6th Century Chapel of St Trillo,
was to form a hedge of spiritual protection Colwyn Bay
round the coasts.

When people say the Rosary together it
is far more effective against the Devil than
one said privately because together we
become an army attacking him. In union
there is strength. Our Lady can intercede
with great power in answer to our prayers.

Remember Chronicles 2, 7;14: “Then if
my people, who bear my name humble
themselves and pray and seek my
presence and turn from their wicked
ways, I will hear from Heaven and forgive
their sins and restore their land.”

We have all at times in our lives
experienced the power of prayer. This
was an opportunity to take part in
something bigger than ourselves - an
opportunity which was enthusiastically
taken up by many of the Brothers in the
Order and their families.

Columba - Summer 2018 Around the Provinces 13

Congratulations to Council 4 birthday party Gravesend Council 977
Brother Bernard Harris installation of officers
On 25th May a birthday bash was held in
By Ken Martenstyn, PGK Province 12 St. Paul’s hall, Glasgow to celebrate the Council 977 Gravesend held their
installation of officers on Sunday 17th
Brother Bernard Harris of Council 571, 90th birthday of Mattie McAree (widow of June during Mass at St John the
Evangelist, Gravesend.
Province 12, was presented with his Brother Jim Mc Aree). The party was well

Golden Jubilee award By Provincial Grand attended by friends and family, including

Knight Brother Ken Martenstyn on 12th May members of Council 4, Province 1.

at the Church of the Apostles, Swanley,

Kent.

Picture by Brother Michael Akinrele. Father Abonyi and Father Ebuka
with Brother Michael Akinrele
Past PGKs Melvin Carty & Patrick Johnston, Picture—Left to Right
Father Fennessy, Brother Bernard and his Past Grand Knight Brother John O’Reilly, and the newly installed officers.
wife Cecilia, Provincial Grand Knight Ken
Martenstyn, daughter in law Linda Harris Mattie McAree, The Installation Mass was celebrated by
and daughter Mary Bateman. Past Grand Knight John Kerr Parish Priest Father Innocent Abonyi,
Present at the ceremony were Parish and Grand Knight Steven Humphrey. Concelebrated by the new curate Father
Franklin Chukwuebuka Umekachikelu
Priest Father Paul Fennessy, Mrs Cecilia During the party Grand Knight Steven (Father Ebuka).
Harris, Mary Bateman Daughter of Brother Humphrey presented Mattie with an
Bernard, Linda Harris Daughter in Law, engraved flower vase on behalf of the The Council 977 Installation was carried
IPPGK Bro Michael Akinrele, Patrick Council. out by Presiding Officer Immediate Past
Johnston PPGK and Melvin Carty PPGK. Provincial Grand Knight Brother Michael
At Mattie’s request, all guests were asked Akinrele, who is the Province 12
Bro Bernard moved from Brixton and to make donation rather than provide gifts. Membership Officer.
Stockwell in 1991 with his family and has This resulted in a total of £700 being
been a resident of Swanley for over 25 contributed which has been split between Council 977 Grand Knight, Brother
years. Mary’s Meals and Spred (Glasgow). This Trevor Zinyuke and all his Officers were
shows that our precepts of “charity, unity, installed. A number of family members
Provincial Grand Knight, Brother Ken fraternity” are not only carried out by our were in support with prospective
Martenstyn said: “Congratulations Brother members but also by our families. gentleman who had been already
Bernard on reaching this milestone and interviewed.
God’s blessings and good health for many By Brother John O’Reilly,
more years to come.” Council 4 In Father Ebuka’s Homily he spoke
about the Order of the Knights of St
Installation of Council Officers Council 981 support Columba and its commitment to serve.
Strood Council 631 New Dawn He invited the men of the parish
celebrating Father’s day to join the Local
In a ceremony at Queen Margaret Council and help with their work.
College, Edinburgh, Brother Paul Gilfillan
of Council 981 Kingdom of Fife had Brother Michael Akinrele said: “May St
“great pleasure” in presenting a cheque Columba pray for our Installed Brothers
to Douglas Hunter of New Dawn, that the Holy Spirit will guide them,
Edinburgh. energise them, and protect them whilst
they do the Lords work. Amen”
New Dawn have a week of workshops
etc. every year for Youth/Young People By Michael Akinrele - IPPGK
in St Andrews, Scotland and the week Picture taken by Young Master
finishes of with open air Holy Mass in the Zinyuke, a future member of the Order.
grounds of the ruins of St. Andrews
Cathedral.

Strood Council 631, Southwark Province The procession starts at St. James RC
12, installation of Council Officers took Church and the statue of Our Lady
place at English Martyrs Church Strood, on of Aberdeen is carried through the
Saturday 7th April 2018. streets of St Andrews to the grounds of
St. Andrew’s Cathedral and is placed

The celebrant and Council Chaplain was before the altar for Holy Mass.
Father Anton Vijay and the Deputy
Provincial Grand Knight, Bro Pat Johnston The Knights of St. Columba have been
installed the officers. represented at this event for over three
years.

By Ken Martenstyn Brother Paul Gilfillan of Kingdom of Fife
Council 981 presenting the cheque to
PGK Prov. 12 Douglas Hunter of New Dawn.

14 Around the Provinces Columba - Summer 2018

King’s Park Council 396 Celebrate seventy years of service By Tom Knight

Council 396 King’s Park of Province 1 to carry out the precepts of our Order of He added: “Our founders looked not
celebrated the 70th anniversary of their Charity, Unity and Fraternity, which I only inward to the welfare of their families,
foundation with a lavish dinner in the believe it has done with great honour. but they allied this role with a commitment
well-appointed Christ the King Church The Council have had many great Grand to help those less fortunate than them-
Hall, King’s Park, Glasgow. Knights and officers, but all Brothers of selves, to promote our faith and to
the Council have made their mark. support our Hierarchy and Clergy as they
The celebration cake Tonight we celebrate all those Brothers, carried out their vocations.
Honoured guests present included both past and present.
Supreme Knight Brother Bertie Grogan “It is very apt that we are here together
and his wife Pauline, Immediate Past “Over these past 70 years the Council in the Parish where you were founded, 69
Supreme Knight Charlie McCluskey and has played a full part in the Order’s story years and 364 days after the date of your
his wife Sandra, Past Supreme Knight in Glasgow, assisting the Clergy and foundation.” To the amusement of all
Ken Hargreaves and his wife Sheila, raising thousands of pounds for charitable present he added: ‘We couldn’t get this
Supreme Director Brian Henry and his causes, including The Mungo Foundation, hall on the actual anniversary date of that
wife Moira, Provincial Grand Knights and the Sisters of the Gospel of Life, Down foundation.’
their wives from the Scottish Provinces, Syndrome, Cancer research, Missio,
Archbishop Philip Tartaglia, Archbishop Mary’s Meals and St Margaret Adoption “I am proud that this commitment to our
Emeritus Mario Conti, Monsignor Paul Society, which has a gifted place in your faith, church and communities continues
Canon Conroy, Vicar General, Monsignor hearts. to this very day and for the presence of
Hugh Bradley, General Secretary of the you, our Archbishop Philip, Archbishop
Scottish Bishop’s Conference, Father “Your Council has one of the largest Mario our emeritus Archbishop and so
Tom Hendry Chaplain of Province 1 and memberships in Britain and you have as many of our clergy and religious here
many Priests, Deacons and Religious member students in our University Cell in tonight.
Sisters. the City and Seminarians at the Scots
College in Rome. “You honour us with your attendance
Past Supreme Knight Bro Ken Hargreaves and we thank you for being with us this
and his wife Sheila at the reception. “A former Lord Provost of Glasgow, the evening.
late Brother Peter McCann was also a
After dinner Brother John Wilson, Grand member of your Council. “On behalf of the Knights of St Columba
Knight of Council 396 King’s Park, said he here in Council 396 we once again pledge
was greatly honoured to be here as “Two members of your Council are our love, support and devotion to you as
Grand Knight and welcomed the clergy, members of my Board of Directors, Brian we enter our 8th decade of service.
religious and honoured guests to their Henry and one of my closest and dearest
celebration. friends and Brother and the Immediate “I now propose the toast to our
Past Supreme Knight of our Order, Hierarchy and Clergy.”
He spoke movingly of honouring his Brother Charlie McCluskey, who is also a
father’s last requests – that he should join Knight of St Gregory for his work in the After dinner Supreme Knight Brother
the Knights of St Columba and make sure Order. Bettie Grogan called for two of the
that his mother was able to get to Mass Council 396 Brothers to come forward –
every Sunday. “This is a very short history of your 70 John Hood and Danny McNeill – and after
years. On behalf of my Board of praising their numerous achievements
He commented: “I make sure my Directors and the entire Order, we wish presented each of them with the Order’s
Mother can manage to Sunday Mass and you a Happy Birthday and many more Meritorious Medal.
yes, I did join the Knights of St Columba.” years.”
(l-r) Danny McNeill and John Hood
Brother John then proposed a toast to Brother Bertie then proposed a toast to presented with their medals by
the Order. the Council’s continued success. Supreme Knight Bettie Grogan.

Supreme Knight Bettie Grogan said: His Grace, Archbishop Tartaglia, on Brother Des Hamill, Grand Knight of
“My wife Pauline and I are delighted to be behalf of the Priests and Religious, Province 16 Council 520 then presented a
here tonight to celebrate the birthday of thanked the Knights of St Columba for the statue of The Good Shepherd to Council
your council. Yes, your birthday….70 help and support they provide to the 603 Grand Knight John Wilson.
years young. Hierarchy and Clergy.
Des Hamill, Grand Knight of Council 520,
“Your council was erected in April 1948, He said: “We are proud of our Knights presenting a statue to The Good Shepherd
and of course Province 1 was the
birthplace of your Order. to Grand Knight John Wilson.
After the presentations were made all
The Knights show fidelity, steadfastness those attending the event were treated to
and undying loyalty to the Clergy and we a fine evening of entertainment.
are all very grateful to them for that and
also for their friendship and physical
support. We can relax in their company.”

Brother Charlie McCluskey welcomed
all the clergy present, including two
Archbishops, the Vicar General of the
Diocese, the General Secretary of the
Bishop’s Conference and Priests,
including Father Hendry, who has been
Provincial Chaplain in Province 1 for over
30 years, Deacons and Sisters, the
Cardinal Winning Initiative Sisters and the
St Margaret’s Adoption Society. He
commented that they show devotion to
life before birth and afterwards.

Columba - Summer 2018 Around the Provinces 15

Pause for Hope St. Margaret’s Pilgrimage,
Dunfermline June 2018

(l-r) Brother Brian Connell, Professor Ray Donnelly and Brother John Lennon Archbishop Leo Cushley, with Provincial
Picture by Tom Knight Grand Knight Bother Brian Beaton and
brothers from Councils 40, 63 and 981.
On Sunday the 3rd June 2018, brothers

How many people do you know who those who care for them; for doctors, from across Edinburgh Province 3 assisted
have or have had cancer? And how nurses and those who work in our at the St. Margaret’s Pilgrimage.

many times have you wished that hospitals, hospices and community; for Dunfermline when, together with the
somehow, somewhere, an answer
might be found for this terrible disease. those with responsibility for allocating and Catenians, they carried the canopy
distributing resources for cancer. We
Professor Ray Donnelly wished that remember loved ones lost to cancer, and protecting the relic of St. Margaret, while it
too and as he explains in his article we pray for our scientists searching for the was processed through the High Street , to
below he soon saw the need to harness cure to cancer. God knows the answers, St. Margaret’s Church, where holy Mass
the great power of prayer that we all
have and often don’t use. Jesus and the harder we pray, the more quickly was celebrated.
promised us: “Whatever you ask for in
my name I will do.” (John 14; 13). As a he will enlighten their minds to see the The main celebrant, His Grace
Professor of thoracic surgery and solutions we desperately need. In the Archbishop Leo Cushley of St. Andrews
caring for cancer victims Professor Ray strength of our united prayer, we pray for and Edinburgh, was assisted by 10 priests
saw the need for people who cared the day - which will surely come - when from the Archdiocese, and Father Chris
about this disease to come together all cancers can be prevented or cured, Heenan, Parish Priest of St. Margaret’s.
and ASK in prayer that a cure might be and the very word 'cancer' will have been
found. And so Pause for Hope was
born and in the years since it was consigned to the history books, where it Provincial Grand Knight of Province 3,
belongs. Brother Brian Beaton said: “I would like

In all of this we pray with Hope, knowing to thank all the Brothers for giving up their
that while our scientists have not yet won time to come along and assist at the

founded, many hundreds of people the war against cancer, they have already pilgrimage.”

have come together to make this won many battles that daily produce new By Brian Beaton
prayer. treatments, new procedures. We pray too

Does it work? We know God honours in the sure and certain hope that our Province 1 Chaplain honoured
his promises and so we ask you to loving and compassionate God is with us
consider – is it purely coincidental that every step of the way, whatever our
in the past weeks the media have been situation and whatever the extent of the
reporting a huge upsurge in new drugs disease. And those of us privileged to be
and new treatments for many different part of a "Pause for Hope" service can
forms of Cancer? testify beyond doubt that it touches the
lives of all those present, and leaves in its
Professor Ray’s Story wake that sense of comfort, consolation

The first “Pause for Hope" ecumenical and peace that is the mark of God's
service for those affected by cancer or presence.

involved in its management and care As KSC, is it not our duty and our
was held in St Francis Xavier's Church in
Liverpool in 1999. The church was privilege not just to pray, but to help others
packed; and since that time ecumenical
services have been held every year in to pray the Lord for a cure for this awful Canon Tommy Hendry, Sister Loyola Kelly
one or other of the cathedrals in Liverpool, disease? and Immediate Past Grand Knight of
as well as in a variety of churches across "What ever you ask in my name, I will do."
the UK. (John 14; 13) Province 1, Brother Brian Connell after the
Mass of Thanksgiving.
In Scotland, the support and involvement
of the Knights has been invaluable in At a recent Mass of Thanksgiving in St
making a success of services in
Glasgow, Motherwell and Paisley, with For anyone interested in holding a Andrew’s Cathedral, Glasgow, Provincial
"Pause for Hope” service at local or parish Chaplain to Province 1, Father Tommy
or diocesan level, there is a Starter Pack Hendry, was installed as a Canon of the
available, containing a draft Order of
Service, prayers, hymns and poems. Cathedral Chapter.

Immediate Past Provincial Grand Knight,

the efforts of Brian Connell (Province 1) See the website Brother Brian Connell, said: “Canon Hendry
and John Lennon (Province 16) being www.pauseforhope.org.uk has been the Chaplain of Province 1 for
particularly important. over 30 years and we wish him all the very
Or best with his new position.
At "Pause for Hope" services we pray for e-mail [email protected]

those who have or have had cancer; for O—o—O—o—O By Brian Connell

16 Around the Provinces Columba - Summer 2018

Sponsored walk in Southport A clean sweep for the pupils A surprise for two Brothers
of English Martyrs Primary of Clydebank Council 8
Council 146 Southport held their annual School
sponsored walk on Sunday, May 20th On Wednesday, 6th June, Province 1
along the Southport seafront. For the second year running, English Provincial Grand Knight Paul Laird “was
Martyrs Primary School, Strood Kent, 5-7 privileged and honoured” to attend the
Council Grand Knight John McCarthy, year olds made a clean sweep of all the council meeting of Council 8 (Clydebank)
Former Grand Knight and Membership Prizes in their Group at a Presentation by where, on behalf of our Supreme Knight,
Officer George and Deputy Grand Knight Council 631 Strood for the Easter Scene he presented Brother Bernard (Brian)
competition winners at Provincial Level. Crawford with his Golden Jubilee Medal
Phil Woods at the start/finish point and Brother Larry Redman with his Silver
by the Pier on Ocean Plaza. They also scooped 2nd and 4th Prizes Jubilee Medal.
in the 8-11 year olds Group. Also Essay
The weather, as it has been for the last & Prayer Competition winners at Council
4 years, was bright and sunny and level made to Strood Council 631.
Presentations were made by Bro Ken
Martenstyn, Provincial Grand Knight of
Province 12.

Brother Ken said: “Thank you to Mrs
Clare Redmond and her staff who have
been tremendous supporters of the
Knights of St Columba over the years.”

members of the Order and our families PGK Paul Laird of Province 1 with
and friends enjoyed each other’s Brother Brian Crawford (Golden Jubilee)
company whilst strolling along enjoying
the views across the bay to Lytham St and Larry Redman (Silver Jubilee)
Anne’s and Blackpool. and members of Council 8
after the presentation.

He said: “It was very humbling to present

As in previous years, parishioners from Head Teacher Mrs Clare Redmond Brother Bernard with his Golden Jubilee
all across Southport donated generously, with pupils from the school. Medal as he has been in the Order since
money which we will be able to distribute before I was born. Having spoken to a few
to many good causes at our celebration in Golden Jubilee recipients prior to the
October, when we hold our Annual event, I was amazed at the insightful tales
Presentation Evening at St John Stone in they could relate.

Ainsdale. Article & Picture “Brother Brian was especially touched as
by Bro. Ken Martenstyn, PGK Prov. 12 he was not expecting this recognition.
By Brother Phil Woods Brother Larry was surprised as well, as the
Grand Knight of Council 8 had kept this
Silver award for Council 117 secret very well. Brother Brian is the
Brother Jim McCloy Nativity Scene winners treasurer of Council 8 and Brother Larry
the Secretary so to keep this from them
The Grand Knight of Council 603 On 23rd March, Brothers from Council was no mean feat.
Kirkintilloch, Province 1, Brother James 117, Province 12, attended at St Francis
Ward took “great pleasure” in presenting Primary School, Peckham to present Na- “It was a wonderful evening and I would
Brother Jim McCloy with his Silver Jubilee tivity Scene certificates to the winners at like to say on behalf of the Brothers from
Medal at a ceremony in St Teresa’s the school. Province 1 that we congratulate and
Church, Glasgow. commend the Brothers on their years of
The winning entries were from Nanaba service to the Order.”
Brother James, who was accompanied Fynn (1st Prize), Michael Ukachukwu (3rd
by Immediate Past Provincial Grand Knight Prize) and Chinaedum Mereni (4th Prize). By Paul J. Laird,
and Council Secretary Brother Brian Provincial Grand Knight,
Connell, congratulated Brother Jim and By Jude Adigwe,
thanked him for his 25 years of dedicated Action & Youth Officer, Council 117 Province 1 Glasgow.

service to the Order.

By Brother Brian Connell (l-r) Brother Venatius Asomugha, Brother James Henderson,

Brother Peter Ryan (Secretary), Brother Anthony Akanya (Grand Knight),
Brother Jude Adigwe (Action and Youth Officer), Brother Pedro Okolonji,

Brother Prince Ibe with the prizewinners.

Columba - Summer 2018 Around the Provinces 17

A Seminarian’s Journey the least. In one sense, it has been
affirming; in another, challenging. After
We continue to follow Bro Ryan Black’s vocation as he journeys towards the priesthood five years of formation, I now at least
look like a priest, and the responsibilities
It is hard to believe that, by the time the that come with that are not be
latest issue of Columba has been downplayed.
published, I will be home for the summer
holidays, on the As every good student Around the time when you will be
is accustomed to, I am taking a break reading this, I will be celebrating my 10th
from studying for my Theology of Grace anniversary as a member of our Order.
exam to jot down these random thoughts I was installed as a First-Degree
for our Order’s publication. I think they member in August 2008, and I became a
call it ‘procrastination’… Third-Degree Knight the following year.
How time flies. Who would have thought
Since March, you will not be surprised Another highlight for me was my that night at Mass when I joined the
to discover, life has been busy at the admission to Candidacy for Holy Orders. Order that 10 years later, I would be
Scots College and in Rome more Archbishop Arthur Roche, a Vatican preparing to be ordained as a deacon?
generally. After a successful and fruitful archbishop secretary, celebrated Mass Certainly not me, and certainly not our
silent retreat during Holy Week, the at the College on Thursday 17th May and Immediate Past Supreme Knight (friends
communities of the Pontifical Scots formally admitted me as a Candidate. can be honest with each other!).
College (Rome) and the Royal Scots He explained that while the two
College (Salamanca) celebrated the Ordination Masses are times for the This summer, around the time you will
Easter Triduum beautifully. As if Church to declare her intent, the Rite of be reading this, I will be getting ready to
celebrating Easter in Rome was not Admission is a time for the aspirant to begin a 4-week pastoral placement in
enough, spending time with our declare his intent to continue to be Renfrew, at St James’ and St Columba’s
counterparts from Spain—many of formed for (and eventually ordained to) parishes. I am excited about this
whom will join our community in the priesthood. I am grateful to my placement, not least of all because I
September—was a lot of fun. For the parents and my aunt for travelling to already know that there is an active
first time in my life, I spent Easter Rome for the Mass, and I am grateful to Council in Renfrew, the members of
Sunday in Rome, opting not to return so many of you, who sent me messages which I am sure I will be working with at
home too early; I served at the of prayerful congratulations before and some point.
Ordination Mass of two friends from the after the Mass.
Irish College on Easter Tuesday. After the summer holiday, I will return
Listening to the Pope’s Urbi et Orbi As a Candidate, I have now been to Rome to begin the next stage of my
speech live in St Peter’s Square was a wearing a clerical collar in Rome for a academic formation. Having—please
great experience. few weeks. It has been strange, to say God—attained the Bachelor of Sacred
Theology (STB), I will begin to study for
After a short Easter break at home, I a Licentiate of Sacred Theology (STL), a
returned with my brother seminarians to graduate degree. I am delighted that,
the Eternal City. Since Easter had been following conversations with Bishop
slightly earlier this year than last year, a Keenan and the Rector of the College, I
lot of the annual ‘events’ in the College will be pursuing an STL in Biblical
calendar took place in the time between Theology.
Divine Mercy Sunday and the exam
session. The highlight of these was, of I should really get back to the books.
course, the Ordination Mass, at which The exams will be over when you read
three men were ordained to the this, but we can never have enough
diaconate: Charles Coyle (Motherwell), prayers said for us; please continue to
Andrew McGowan (Glasgow) and Mark pray for the community of the Scots
O’Donnell (Motherwell) were ordained College ahead of a new academic year,
by Archbishop Tartaglia on Sunday 6th the year in which I will be ordained!
May.

18 Around the Provinces Columba - Summer 2018

Province 12 visit Archbishop Peter Smith Province 2 celebrates
Annual Dinner
Province 12 Provincial Grand Knight Ken
Martenstyn, Immediate Past Provincial By Brother David Keane
Grand Knight Michael Akinrele and Liverpool Province 2 held its annual dinner
Brother Ken Smith, Convenor for the at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on Friday,
Seminary, together with their wives, 16th February, attended by members and
visited the Archbishop of Southwark, His their guests from all parts of the Province
Grace Peter Smith, to present a cheque and further afield.
for £2500 from the Province to the
Diocesan Seminary Fund.

Provincial Grand Knight Brother Ken The party meeting with the Archbishop
said: “His Grace gave us an hour of his
valuable time and was pleased to meet Picture by Father Philip Glandfield,
with our wives too.” Private Secretary to Archbishop Smith

By Brother Ken Martenstyn PGK

Province 1 support for Deacons Honoured guests at the dinner.

By Brother Brian Connell, IPPGK Province 1. A very warm welcome was extended to
Brother Bertie Grogan recently elected
On May 6th, 2018, at the Pontifical Scots Supreme Knight of the Order and his wife
College in Rome the ordination of Pauline. Also present for the first time was
Diaconate was conferred by Most Rev. our new Provincial Chaplain, Father
Philip Tartaglia Archbishop of Glasgow on Dunstan Harrington Parish Priest of St
Andrew McGowan, Glasgow, and Charles Mary’s Little Crosby and St William of
Coyle and Mark O'Donnell, both York.
Motherwell.
This was the last occasion on which
Immediate Past Provincial Grand Knight Brother Pat Foley would attend as
Brian Connell and his wife Ann were Provincial Grand Knight, having almost
privileged to be guests of Charles Coyle's completed his three year term of office.
Family on this special occasion.
Honoured Guests included His Grace
The three new Deacons are part Archbishop of Liverpool, the Most Rev.
of our supporting Seminarians project put Malcolm McMahon OP, who is National
forward by Supreme Director for Spirituality Spiritual Adviser to the Order, Supreme
and Welfare, Brother Michael Malone. Director Brother Harry Welsh and his wife
Patricia, Mrs Anne Foley, wife of Provincial
Province 1 Council 603 are involved in Brother Brian Connell and his wife Ann Grand Knight Brother Pat Foley and
the Rosary, Our Lady Untier of Knots, with new Deacon Charles Coyle. Brother John Church, Provincial Social
which is offered up every Saturday Secretary and his wife Patricia.
morning for all Vocations in Saint My thanks to Charles Coyle's Mum and
Bernadette’s, Carntyne, Glasgow and are Dad for their very kind invitation and I It was also a change of venue for this
proud to say that New Deacon Andrew assure them of our full support in the annual event, having moved to the
McGowan has had our full support and coming year. Crowne Plaza after many years at the
Prayers throughout his journey. Adelphi.

Council 603 has just undertaken A very pleasant social occasion was
the sponsorship of Brother James Ward, enjoyed by all, in an atmosphere where
who will be coming to the end of his first the Order, having just started the
year of the Permanent Diaconate please completion of the first 100 years is
keep him in your prayers. confidently looking forward to another
century of continuing support of the work
Three new Brothers for Council 355 of the Church.

By Brother Ken Martenstyn PGK

Picture by Three new Brothers were initiated into the Installation of Council Officers
Brother Order for Council 355 Ashford on 28th April
Michael at St Theresa of Avila Parish Church. of Council 210 took place on 28th April at
Akinrele, Sacred Heart
IPPGK Father Piotr Kucharski was Celebrant Church in
and Brother Ken Martenstyn, Provincial Sittingbourne, Kent.
Father Piotr Kucharski being presented Grand Knight of Province 12 presided. Officers installed by
with his Member of Honour Certificate Provincial Grand
Following the service Father Piotr was Knight Brother
installed as Chaplain of Council 355 and Kenneth Martenstyn
awarded his Member of Honour Certificate, at the 11.00am
together with Father Lukasz Haduch, Parish Mass with
Assistant Priest. Father Mallachy as
celebrant..

Columba - Summer 2018 Around the Provinces 19

An uplifting Annual Pilgrimage to Aylesford Article & photographs by Brother Director Sean Mulligan

On 10th June the 52nd Knights of St In the year 2000 the Knights planted a tree
Columba Southern Provinces Pilgrimage at near the pond at Aylesford in memory of
Aylesford Priory took place in a joint deceased members of the Order.
celebration of our patron, St Columba’s Unfortunately it was never marked and
feast day on 9th June. The main celebrant earlier this year a stone and plaque were
was Archbishop Peter Smith with Father put in place to identify the tree and inform
Innocent Abonyi, Southwark Province 12’s the pilgrims why it is there. Father
Chaplain concelebrating the Mass, Kemsley invited the Knights to remember
assisted by two Deacons, Rev. John those who have died and join him in the
Newman and Rev. Alan Boxhall. blessing of the stone and the tree.

Before the final blessing of the Mass the
Supreme Knight installed Brother Sean
Smith as a Director of the Order.

In attendance at the Pilgrimage were Angel Ceramics
Supreme Knight Brother Bettie Grogan,
Deputy Supreme Knight Brother Joe
Rodriguez, many past and present
Members of the Board and a great many
Brothers and their families.

During the Mass 29 Brothers of the The Prior, Fr. Francis Kemsley O. Carm, The Knights are
Knights of St. Columba were elevated to explained that the ceramics of the Angels very grateful to his
full Knighthood by the Supreme Knight on the shrine were in disrepair and were in Grace, Archbishop
Brother Bertie Grogan, those elevated danger of falling off the wall. He informed
having been in the Order for a minimum of us that Billy and Alan, the potters, removed Peter Smith,
one year. the angel ceramics on the Shrine Father Philip,
repapered them and hung them back over Father Innocent,
During this year they have gained the entrance to the relic chapel. The
experience in the workings of the Order Archbishop blessed the ceramics and Deacons
and are now eligible to hold an Office in stressed how important it was to keep our John and Alan,
their Council. churches in good repair. not forgetting

After a break for refreshments the The Prior
Procession around the Rosary Way took Father Francis,
place, with eight of the newly elevated the community and
Knights carrying the statue of Our Blessed staff at Aylesford,
Mother. This was followed by Benediction, for making it a very prayerful and
led by Father Innocent Abonyi, after which spiritually uplifting day
Father Kemsley explained about and for all the pilgrims.
blessed the scapulars and religious objects
with the relic of St Simon Stock.

20 Around the Provinces Columba - Summer 2018

Pause for Hope in Motherwell Some of the Ecumenical congregation Council 200 a new beginning
who attended.
On 6th June Council 246 Carfin organised A wonderful vigil Mass was held on April 7th
an Ecumenical Service called Pause for Spirituality and Welfare Officer in Carfin at St Edmund of Canterbury, Beckenham,
Hope. 246, who related his 10 years struggle with Celebrant Assistant Parish Priest
with cancer in the Reflection. Father Ashley Beck.
It was held in St Bernadette’s Church in
Motherwell in conjunction with the Brother Brian Connell, Immediate Past Permission for the Installation of officers
neighbouring North Lanarkshire Church of Knight of Province 1, also attended the was given by Dean of Bromley and Parish
Scotland. service. Priest, Father Steve Wymer, MOH.

Father William Damah CSSp kindly A very good turnout of Knights was The Council 200 Installation was carried
offered the Council to hold the event at his present at the service. Donations totalled out by Worthy Director and Past Provincial
Church. The North Lanarkshire Church of £331, which will be donated to Pause for Grand Knight Brother John Campolini
Scotland Reverend Derek Pope was Hope (Liverpool) and Beatson Cancer immediately after the Homily.
contacted and he agreed to take part in Charity (Glasgow).
the service. The new Council Worthy Grand Knight,
Brother Taiwo Agboola, his Minute
Secretary, Brother Bola Coker, his
Membership Officer, Kennet Nwachukwu
and his Warden, Brother Didacus Ndulaka-
Okwu were installed.

A number of Council Brothers were
present in support plus Worthy Grand
Knight Brother Agboola’s daughter Wande.

Brother John Lennon (seated) Planning has been initiated for next
and some of the readers. year’s event. “Watch this space.”

The Service was held last year in It should be noted that Brother Brian The new Council Officers with
Motherwell Cathedral. It is planned to Connell and Sr Loyola have organised this Director John Campolini
move around the Parishes in the Council event in St Teresa’s, Glasgow, for several and Father Ashley Black.
246 area. This is to involve parishioners
who cannot travel far. years now. The Paisley Council held it Immediate Past Provincial Grand Knight

The service was attended by 100 last year at St Mirin’s Cathedral in Paisley. Michael Akinrele, said after the service: “A
people. The organist at the Church is a
Doctor and works a good distance from The event is scheduled for 8th July in new dawn beckons for our Council, a new
the Church and would not be able to get Paisley Cathedral. beginning with five new officers out of the
back in time. A fellow Knight, Joe seven that were nominated and elected.
McHenry of Council 490 Blantyre, was By Brother John Lennon, May St Columba pray for them, that the
contacted and he agreed to play the Spirituality and Welfare Officer,
organ. As the Church has a small choir, Carfin Council 246 Holy Spirit will guide them, energise them,
Nan Reilly from Sacred Heart Parish in and protect them whilst they do the Lords
Bellshill also agreed to attend and sing the Photographs by Jim Hoey work. Amen.”
“Ave Maria” solo. What a wonderful voice!
The prayers and Readings were shared Province 2 installation By Michael Akinrele - IPPGK
between the two Clergy, the Knights and
the Church of Scotland. At the Province 2 quarterly meeting on 18th Province 2 welcomes three
March elections were held for Provincial Brothers to full Knighthood
Officers, resulting in Brother Ray Pealing
becoming new Provincial Grand Knight, On Sunday 18th February at St John the
succeeding Brother Pat Foley, who had Evangelist Parish Church, Kirkdale, three
completed three years in the post. members of the Order were elevated to
Full Knighthood in a Ceremony performed
We welcome Brother Ray, who has held during morning Mass.
many offices on his path to Provincial
Grand Knight and thank Brother Pat, who
has performed with distinction over his
three year term.

The newly elected officers were installed Brothers Mathew Analogbie, Kevin Jones
by Supreme Director for Action and Social, and Justin Malewezi, wearing their
Brother Harry Welsh at a Mass in St Mary’s
Little Crosby, on Sunday 22nd April. Knighthood collars are with Father Cooper

The symbolic lighting of the candles. The new Provincial Team and We thank Father Roy Cooper Parish
Supreme Director Brother Harry Welsh Priest for saying the Mass and for allowing
Taking part were Knights from other us to hold the ceremony and for his active
Councils in Province 16 Lanarkshire, after the installation. participation in it.
including Grand Knight Des Hamill from
Council 520 Coatbridge, Brother Gerry We also thank the ladies of the parish
Donnelly, Membership Officer from who provided the refreshments after Mass
Council 246 and Brother John Lennon, and congratulate Brothers Mathew
Analogbie, Kevin Jones and Justin
Malewezi on their admission to higher
office.

Columba - Summer 2018 Around the Provinces 21

National Memorial Mass in Liverpool

By David Keane

On 16th June the National Memorial 1 2
Mass for deceased members of the Order 3
was held at the Metropolitan Cathedral of
Christ the King, Liverpool, when members
of our Order, their families and friends
from all parts of the country came to
remember their dearly departed loved
ones.

The Mass was celebrated by His Grace
the Archbishop of Liverpool Rev Malcolm
McMahon, who is also the Order’s
Spiritual Adviser.

In addition to Brothers, friends and We thank the Cathedral Dean, Canon
family many members of our Supreme Anthony O'Brien and his staff for all the
Council were present and took a assistance provided in the in the
prominent part in the pre Mass arrangements and planning for the Mass
procession. and for allowing us the use of the Gibberd
Room in the Cathedral to enable us to
One of the solemn phases of the Mass provide refreshments afterwards.
was when the Books of Remembrance
were taken from their permanent display Pictures
cabinet in the Columba Chapel, which is 1 Supreme Director for Spirituality and
within the Cathedral, and placed on the Welfare Brother Michael Malone leading the
altar by Past Director Bro Peter Procession.
Sims-Coomber and newly elevated Knight
Bro Carl Mellor from Peterborough 2 The Order’s Spiritual Adviser,
Council 313. Archbishop Malcolm McMahon OP

The Mass was preceded by a 3 Supreme Knight Brother Bettie Grogan,
procession to the altar lead by the Immediate Past Supreme Knight Brother
Supreme Director for Spirituality and Charlie McCluskey KSG and Deputy
Welfare Brother Michael Malone. Supreme Knight Brother Joe Rodriguez are
pictured taking part in the procession.

90 Glorious years for Council 200

By Michael Akinrele, Province 12 IPPGK

Council 200 Bromley’s 90th anniversary and our families for perhaps seven or The celebratory cake.
Mass took place on Sunday, 27th May at eight years and what a day it was. We
Our Lady of the Rosary, West Common retired to the Hall after Mass, joined by
Road, Hayes. Parishioners and our families to enjoy
food and drink provided by Council
What a glorious day to have an Brothers.
anniversary Mass for to celebrate the 90th
anniversary of their formation. We thank God for this day and hope it
will now become a mainstay of our very
The perfect parish was chosen in Our large Council.
Lady of the Rosary, Hayes, with Father
Gregory Ackron celebrating. At least four Past Grand Knights of the
Council were in attendance plus Brother
The Council’s Chief Guest was our Director John Campolini.
Provincial Grand Knight, Brother Ken
Martenstyn. What a wonderful occasion for
ourselves and our families.
Our Worthy Grand Knight, Brother
Taiwo Adebisi Agboola has to be praised
for ensuring that this anniversary
celebration took place, with help from
Brother Dayo Adekanbi and Brother Bola
Coker.

Special thanks must go to Brother Paul
Okolo, Action & Youth Officer, who
impressed on the Council’s Joint
Committee Brothers the importance of
making sure this celebration took place.

Father Gregory gave a wonderful PGK Brother Ken Martenstyn and his predecessor,
Homily, during which he praised the IPPGK Brother Michael Akinrele shared with
Order of the Knights of St Columba. The
Parishioners welcomed the Council Council Grand Knight Brother Taiwo Adebisi Agboola
warmly. the honour of cutting the cake.

This is the largest gathering of Brothers

22 Around the Provinces Columba - Summer 2018

Province 2 celebrate our Province 8 have winner in Council 981
Patron’s Feast Day Easter Painting Competition receive their Charter

Saturday 9th June was the Feast Day of our Brother Pat Gavin, Provincial Grand Knight Just prior to last year’s Supreme Council,

Patron St Columba. of Province 8, had the “very pleasant duty” the then Supreme Knight Brother Charlie

All members of the Order in Province 2 of attending at St Gregory’s Roman McCluskey attended with Directors Bertie
make a particular effort each year to
ensure it is a special and memorable Catholic High School in Warrington to make Grogan and Brian Henry at St Serf’s
occasion.
a presentation to a winner in the Easter Church in High Valleyfield to present a

Painting Competition. Council Charter to Council 981 Kingdom of

Fife, of Province 3.

The Wirral Knights, Council 51, have The Council had been erected with due
ceremony during a Mass in July 2015 with
done just that by holding their St Columba advance status and the presentation of the
Charter acknowledged the hard work which
Feast Day Mass in the Columba Chapel of had been carried out to make it a success.

the Cathedral. This took place on Saturday
9thJune at 11 am.

Provincial Grand Knight Pat Gavin
presenting Denzil Carolino

with a cheque and signed certificate
to mark his successful entry.

Winner Denzil Carolino was given a
cheque for £75 and a certificate signed by
Supreme Knight Brother Bertie Grogan.

A further cheque for £200 was presented

to Mr McGlinchy, Headmaster of the Council 981 Grand Knight Brian Beaton (now
school, who said that the money will be PGK of Province 3) and retiring PGK Francis
used to help decorate the school chapel. Murphy hold the new Charter, with Supreme

It was arranged and celebrated by Father Northern Catholic Conference Directors Brian Henry and Bertie Grogan
Bernard Forshaw, Council 51 Chaplain and flanking Supreme Knight Charlie McCluskey

together with Officers of the Council.

Parish Priest of St Anne’s Rock Ferry and The Northern Catholic Conference was M O H for Province 3
St John’s New Ferry. He was assisted by held at Hope University, Liverpool, over
Deacon David Cottrell of St Joseph’s three days, from 22nd to 24th June. In one of his last duties before finishing his
Upton. We are grateful to them both for term as Provincial Grand Knight, Brother
providing such an uplifting and memorable The Conference took as its theme this Francis Murphy of Province 3, St Andrews
spiritual experience in the private and year the words of Jesus to His disciples as and Edinburgh, attended at St Bernadette’s
tranquil setting of the Columba Chapel. We he commissioned them to go and make Church, Tullibody, and presented retired
also thank Brothers John Hamilton and disciples of the whole world. He assured Priest Father John Callahan with his
Charlie Newport for leading the hymn them of His spiritual presence by Member of Honour Certificate.
singing and for the musical concluding: “I am with you always, YES,
accompaniment. Our thanks also to the to the end of time” (Matthew 28:20).
brothers and their families from other
councils, who gave their support to this Scripture tells us many times never to be
unique event. The help of the Cathedral afraid because God “...is with us always..”,
staff was also much appreciated. and here He re-affirms and stresses it
adding, “YES, to the end of time”. This
Other Councils in the Liverpool area should fill us all with hope that we are never
celebrated St Columba Feast Day with alone in any of the situations in life in which
Mass at St Columba’s Parish Church, we find ourselves.... no matter how dire!

Huyton, where members and their families

always receive a very warm welcome from

Parish Priest Father Chris McCoy and his Diary Date
congregation who invited us to participate
in refreshments afterwards. Eucharistic Pilgrimage
and Congress
Also Father Chris kindly provided us with
the facility to hold our Quarterly Meeting on "Adoremus" - Liverpool
the Parish Premises following the Mass. 7th - 9th September 2018

The Isle of Man Council, Douglas 458, Eucharistic Congresses are gatherings of clergy, religious
and laity which promote an awareness of the central
which is also in the Liverpool Province, A number of Brothers from Province 2 place of the Eucharist in the life and mission of the
celebrated St Columba’s Feast Day with Liverpool attended each day at the Church.
Mass at St Columba’s, Port Erin, followed conference to provide stewarding and also The last International Eucharistic Congress in England
by a buffet in the Parish Hall. had their own publicity stand at the event. was held in 1908 when permission for a public procession
of the Blessed Sacrament was refused.
By David Keane By David Keane Participants will engage in a series of sessions focusing
on different dimensions of the Eucharist and the daily
celebration and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

Columba - Summer 2018 Obituaries 23

Brother Donal Lonergan

A tribute to a legend in Southwark Province 12, Council 380 Lesnes Abbey - By Brother Ken Martenstyn Provincial Grand Knight

Brother Donal (Don) Lonergan, after a Brother Don served his country in Italy A Knight’s Mass was held at St Thomas
long illness, was called to his eternal and Austria – The East Kent Regiment More Catholic Church, Bexleyheath on
reward on 26th April 2018. Brother Joe (The BOFFS). Returning to Civvy Street Thursday 17th May 2018 at 8 pm
Bowman was at his bedside praying from after four years’ service and joined his celebrated by Rev: Fr Michael Jones,
2.30 to 4.30 pm. He died peacefully in father to work for Sir Robert McAlpine attended by the Supreme Knight Brother
his home surrounded by his loving and Construction until 1991. Bertie Grogan, Brother Don’s Family and
devoted wife Sylvia, his care person and many friends. Fifty seven Brothers also
Brother Joe at 5pm. He leaves behind Many have commented on the fact that attended and gave Brother Don a Final
his Family, his Sons Daniel, Matthew, his Don always had his supportive wife Sylvia Farewell Salute at the end of Mass.
Daughters Josephine, Angela and Marina by his side and although clearly in pain in
12 Grand and three Great Grand Children the latter years Bro Don & Sylvia would Bro Michael Gallagher, who was a
and not forgetting 10 Grand Dogs. attend KSC events in Province. member of Council 380, now Provincial
Grand Knight of Portsmouth & Clifton
Brother Don Joined the Knights of St Province and a Past Supreme Director,
Columba in 1950 and served the Order paid a glowing tribute to his mentor
with dedication and total commitment for Brother Don with his Eulogy.
68 years. He was the Grand Knight of
Council 380 from 1977 to 1980 and held Brother Don’s Requiem Mass was held
many Officers posts. He was elected on 18th May, 2018, followed by Burial at
Provincial Grand Knight of Southwark Hillview Cemetery, Peters Close, Welling.
Province 12 in 1969 to 1971.
Brother Don will be greatly missed by
For many years Brother Don was the his Family and the Knights of St Columba
Editor of the Provincial Bulletin, now in Province 12 and all those who knew
known as the Southwark Knight. He was him.
a kind and gentle man who was always
there for his fellow brothers in his Council Eternal Rest Grant unto him O Lord
and in Province to give advice and a and let perpetual light shine on him
helping hand. and May He Rest in Peace, Amen.

Brother John Devlin RIP 15th May, 1944 – 9th May, 2018 John was diagnosed with lung cancer in
July, 2015, just after celebrating his Golden
Bother John Devlin was born in Cleland, Wedding anniversary with Lillian.
Lanarkshire and brought up with his
brother Bernard and sister Bridget.

On leaving school he started work in the He received radiotherapy and
gents department of Links Warehouse in chemotherapy and had excellent care from
Glasgow. He met Lillian, who was from the dedicated staff at the Beatson Cancer
Motherwell during this time and they and Monklands Hospitals.
married in July, 1965.
He was a dedicated family man and most
John then worked in the Caterpillar of all loved spending time with his four
factory in Birkenshaw. His daughter grandchildren Danielle, Louise Libby and
Marjorie was born in 1967 and his son Paul.
William in 1971. Brother John was a hard
working man and provided well for his He was determined to visit Burtonport
family. again before his next oncology
appointment and travelled there on 7th May.
John and Lillian’s first home was in He spent two lovely days visiting family,
Donegal town and most important for him,
Forgewood, Motherwell, and the then the Kerrytown Shrine. He passed away
peacefully, but suddenly, on 9th May in
Father (later Cardinal) Winning asked John Burtonport, a place he loved.

and a few other men to set up a Boys Club John will be sadly missed by his family
and friends and the Brothers in Council 246
to help the youths in the area. John ran Council 246 Carfin, Province 16. He held Carfin who knew him as a principled and
steadfast Knight. Many of his fellow
this successful venture for many years. many posts within Council 246 including Knights attended his funeral and provided
a guard of honour.
two terms as Grand Knight. He received
May this good man rest in peace.
When Caterpillar closed he joined the Meritorious Medal and subsequently
By Brother Jim Hoey
Strathclyde Police where he worked for a was also awarded his Silver and Golden

brief time as a traffic warden before moving Jubilee medals.

on to become a senior storeman in the

police wireless workshop in Govan, John enjoyed his holidays abroad to

Glasgow. Benidorm, Florida and Boston but also

loved his regular holidays in Burtonport,

Brother Join joined the Knights of St County Donegal in Ireland.

Columba in 1966, becoming a member of

TM