We remember with gratitude the life and work of Desmond Williams, who died on 30 March 2026 at the age of 93, and who designed our church at St Michael’s.
A gifted architect of modern Catholic churches, Williams embraced the spirit of renewal following the Second Vatican Council, creating spaces that placed the congregation at the heart of worship. His vision for St Michael’s reflects this approach, fostering a sense of community, participation and shared prayer.
Our church stands as a lasting testament to his thoughtful and inspiring design, and we give thanks for the legacy he leaves to our parish community.

​www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2026/mar/30/desmond-williams-obituary

I would like to begin by expressing my heartfelt gratitude to Deacon Jonathan for his generosity, encouragement, and dedicated support towards the youth sponsorship initiative. His commitment has been a great source of inspiration to our community. I pray that God abundantly blesses him for his kindness and continues to strengthen him in his ministry.
I am also deeply grateful to all who have contributed towards sponsoring our young people for the upcoming youth retreat in August 2026. Through your kindness and sacrifice, several of our youth will have the opportunity to participate in this enriching and faith-filled experience.
This opportunity has been made possible not only through your financial support but also through your prayers.I sincerely thank each and every one of you for your generosity and for keeping our youth in your prayers.
As we look forward to the retreat, I kindly ask that you continue to pray for our young people—that this experience may be fruitful, transformative, and filled with God’s grace.
May God bless you all for your kindness and continued support.
​

On 22-02-2026 some of our catechumens and candidates gathered at St Chad’s Cathedral to take part in the Rite of Election.
The Rite of Election is a significant and joyful step in their journey of faith. During this special liturgy, those preparing to receive the Sacraments of Initiation were formally presented and affirmed as they continue their preparation for Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist at Easter.
It was a prayerful and uplifting occasion, shared with parishes from across the Diocese. We are very proud of our catechumens and candidates for their commitment and openness to God’s call.
Please keep them in your prayers during these final weeks of preparation, that the Lord may strengthen them and fill them with His grace as they look forward to receiving the sacraments this Easter.

Following the request of the Archbishop in his 2024 Pastoral Letter, we have prepared a new draft Constitution for our Parish Pastoral Council, using the guidelines provided by the Diocese. This revised draft places a renewed emphasis on bringing together all active parish groups, helping us to work more closely and effectively towards a shared mission and common purpose within our parish community. The full draft Constitution is attached below as a PDF, and there is now a revised version underneath as a result of feedback to Fr Mark. We warmly encourage all parishioners to read them carefully. We greatly value your feedback. If you have any comments or suggestions, please email:[email protected]. There will also be a Parish Meeting for all parishioners on: Saturday 21st March at 3.00pm St Michael’s Hall. This meeting will provide an opportunity to discuss the proposed Constitutions and reflect together on this new way forward for our parish. All are very welcome.

Mental Health Support – 24-Hour Text Service for Birmingham & Solihull If you live in Birmingham or Solihull and are feeling sad, worried, or lonely, free and confidential mental health support is available 24 hours a day. Please use the link to access the content and complete the necessary action www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c8deqvvd3g4o
A safe space is available where you can chat by text with a trained mental health professional.
How to get support

• Text ‘SPACE’ to 85258
• Free and confidential
• Available 24/7

After sending your text, you will receive a small number of automated messages. As soon as a mental health professional is available, they will introduce themselves and ask how you are feeling. You can share as much or as little as you wish.
They will listen, talk through what you’re experiencing, and help you make a plan for after the conversation ends. Conversations usually last 45 minutes to one hour and end when you feel calmer.
Your conversation will remain in your messages if you ever want to look back, and Shout is available 24/7 if you ever want to text again.
On behalf of Bev Lewis, Deputy Head of Safeguarding

A Youth Prayer Vigil for Vocations was held on 6 February 2026 at SS Mary & John’s Catholic Church, Wolverhampton, bringing young people together for an hour of prayer, reflection, and quiet adoration. Inspired by Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati and his motto “Verso l’alto!” (“To the heights!”), the vigil invited participants to reflect on God’s call in their lives and to pray for vocations to the priesthood, religious life, and holy Christian living. The candlelit atmosphere created a space of reverence and hope, encouraging hearts to listen more deeply to where the Lord may be leading them. Sincere thanks are extended to all who participated and helped make the vigil a prayerful and meaningful experience.

  THANK YOU NOTE FROM SR LYDWIN
​ As I come to the end of my mission here in the UK, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you — truly lovely people of deep faith. Your commitment, warmth, and generosity have deeply touched me. To the priests particularly Fr Mark, Fr Gerry, Deacon Mick, Deacon Jonathan, Fr Alex, Fr Sean, Fr Garry, Fr Brendan, our dear Sisters at the Carmelite Monastery, and the Brothers of St John of God and all who have journeyed with me: thank you for your dedication, your guidance, and your unwavering support. You have given profound meaning to my religious life and helped me live my commitment with renewed focus and purpose. Your encouragement enabled me to face challenges with courage, and your joyful celebrations lifted my spirit, strengthening my hope and joy to continue serving in the mission. My sincere thanks to Sr Sophia and Sr Ancita who have stepped forward to continue the mission in the parish. I wish them all the best and God’s blessings. May God bless you all abundantly. Though I may be leaving physically, I remain united with you in prayer and spirit as we continue our faith journey together. With gratitude and affection, Sr Lydwin

Sudan Bishop Issues Christmas Message of Hope Amid Ongoing War and Humanitarian Crisis
El-Obeid, Sudan — December 2025
As Sudan continues to endure violent conflict, mass displacement, and deep humanitarian suffering, Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali of the Catholic Diocese of El-Obeid has delivered a powerful Christmas message calling for faith, solidarity, and hope rooted in the birth of Christ.
Reflecting on the meaning of Christmas, Bishop Trille emphasized that the birth of Jesus reveals God’s fidelity and promise of salvation and peace for all humanity. He noted that through Christ’s birth, reconciliation with God becomes possible, even in times marked by fear and destruction.
Drawing a poignant comparison between the manger and Sudan’s current reality, the bishop highlighted the plight of millions who remain without shelter and security. He lamented the severe impact of the war on pastoral life in Kordofan, where parishes have been deserted or desecrated and priests are unable to celebrate the sacraments for the faithful.
Sudan’s civil war, which began in April 2023, has resulted in widespread loss of life, the displacement of more than 14 million people, and unprecedented humanitarian needs. As the nation approaches the 70th anniversary of its independence in 2026, Bishop Trille urged the people of God to remain united in compassion, mourning with those who grieve and standing in solidarity with the most vulnerable.
“Let us make our hearts the manger where the baby Jesus can live,” the bishop said, calling on Christians to become instruments of peace, renewal, and reconciliation amid the suffering.

In the early hours of Saturday, December 6th, 2025, our parish gathered in the soft pre-dawn darkness for a beautiful and peaceful Rorate Mass at 7:30 AM. Celebrated by candlelight, this Advent tradition once again drew our community together in quiet anticipation of the Lord’s coming and in devotion to Our Blessed Mother.
The church, illuminated only by the glow of candles, created a deeply prayerful atmosphere that invited silence, reflection, and a renewed openness to God’s grace.  The gentle chant of the Rorate Caeli, and the stillness of the morning all contributed to a truly moving liturgy.
We thank everyone who joined us, especially those who assisted with preparing the candles and liturgical ministries. Your presence and service made this early-morning celebration a moment of real beauty and unity for our Parish.
As we continue our Advent journey, may the light we shared in the darkness inspire us to welcome Christ more fully into our hearts and homes.

Advent calls us to be ready to expect to see Christ in three different ways. Thinking about the end of time, when Jesus comes in Majesty, then over weeks to see he comes in the everyday in Mystery then in last part of advent we remember what all this is based on - the first time he came in History in stable of Bethlehem.
Majesty – keep focussed on that wonderful image of Isalin – Christ will come in glory to heal all the evils of the world; imagine what it's like and how wonderful it will be.
Mystery - remember truth meaning is a truth so deep always more to discover. Christ coming in mystery means living in faith that every Day Christ is present, smile of a child, someone apologising, break in the clouds – becoming aware of closeness. But most of all in sacraments, the wonder of how he comes in Eucharist.
History in the most irrelevant but strife ridden region of Roman empire, insignificant migrants sheltering in stable in Bethlehem – that’s where the fullness of God chose to make his dwelling. That’s why we do not give up hope, that’s why we are called to be awake – that’s why we are called to be part of the solution.
Make advent happen this year - Majesty, Mystery & History

We were honoured to welcome our Archbishop Bernard Longley to the parish on Tuesday for the celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation. Forty-six of our young people were confirmed during a reverent and uplifting Mass, marking an important step in their faith journey.
The Archbishop Bernard Longley spoke encouragingly to the candidates about the gifts of the Holy Spirit and the call to live their faith with courage and joy. Families, sponsors, and parishioners gathered to support the young people, creating a warm and prayerful atmosphere throughout the celebration.
We congratulate all those who were confirmed and thank everyone who helped prepare them for this special day. Please continue to keep them in your prayers as they grow in faith and commitment to Christ.

The St Carlo Parish Christmas Fayre came to life on Saturday 22nd November, filling St Michael’s Hall with festive colour, lively conversation, and a wonderful spirit of community. From the moment the doors opened at 2pm, parishioners from all three of our churches streamed in, eager to explore the stalls and share in the celebrations.
Thanks to the volunteers who spent the previous week sorting and arranging the many donated items, the hall was transformed into a cheerful Christmas marketplace. Tables overflowed with books, toys, gifts, and seasonal treasures, while the Tombola and chocolate stalls quickly drew excited queues. The Cake & Bake table—laden with homemade delights—proved irresistible to visitors of all ages.
Throughout the afternoon, the hall buzzed with warmth and friendliness as people greeted old friends, met fellow Parishioners from other Churches, and enjoyed the rare chance to gather as one united community. 
Beyond the enjoyment, the purpose of the Fayre shone brightly: raising funds to support the Parish, our Sudan Charity, and local foodbanks. The generosity shown—through donations, volunteering, and attendance—was a testament to the kindness and commitment of our Parish family.
The event closed with smiles, full bags, and a shared sense of gratitude. Heartfelt thanks go to everyone who contributed in any way to making the Christmas Fayre such a joyful and memorable occasion.

On Tuesday 18th November, our parish community gathered at the Shrine of St Carlo for the monthly Mass at 11.00am. Mgr. Canon Mark Crisp our Parish Priest was the main Celebrant, lead a prayerful and uplifting liturgy. This month’s Mass was offered especially for our Confirmation candidates, and the prayer intentions placed in the St Carlo boxes over the weekend were brought to the altar and remembered during the celebration.
After the Mass, the candidates took part in a special Confirmation retreat. The afternoon included moments of prayer, guided activities, and short films that helped them explore themes such as The Spirit of the Saints, The Spirit at Work, and The Spirit in Me. Dan and Emily led the sessions, encouraging reflection and sharing among the young people as they prepared for the Sacrament of Confirmation.
The retreat concluded with a peaceful closing liturgy, Come, Holy Spirit, bringing the group together in prayer and anticipation of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. It was a blessed and enriching experience for everyone involved.

Following the presentations from the Finance Committee members this weekend, please find all relevant documentation.
​The purpose is to support the parish priest in stewardship of assets, budgeting, and financial planning.
• Review and advise on expenditures, income, and financial reports.
• Ensure accountability and compliance with diocesan norms and civil regulations.
• Promote transparency in financial matters to foster trust within the parish community.

The Names of the Finance Committee are as follows:
Iain Shorthouse (Chair), Bill Finnegan, John Haden, Peter Ricketts, Marie Yeo (Secretary),
​Sr Lydwin (Treasurer), Mgr. Canon Mark Crisp.

On Saturday, 13th September, the Catholic Women’s League organised a special Stations of the Cross devotion, thoughtfully aligning with two deeply significant themes in the Church’s calendar—the Season of Creation and the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross.
This reflective prayer service invited participants to journey alongside Christ as He carried His cross, meditating on His passion and sacrifice with renewed faith and devotion. In the context of the Season of Creation, this ancient devotion took on additional layers of meaning. The faithful were encouraged to contemplate not only Christ’s suffering but also the urgent need to care for our common home—the Earth—which is experiencing its own hardships due to environmental challenges. The Stations of the Cross thus became a powerful reminder of our call to stewardship, compassion, and prayer for the healing of creation.

On Saturday, 13th September 2025, young people from across the Birmingham Diocese came together to take part in a special youth pilgrimage. With great enthusiasm and spiritual devotion, they journeyed on foot from St Chad’s Cathedral in Birmingham to our very own Shrine of St Carlo.
This pilgrimage was not only a physical walk but a deeply spiritual experience, offering the young participants a chance to grow in faith, reflect on their personal relationship with God, and connect with one another as a community of believers. Bishop Timothy Menezes graciously accompanied the young people on the walk, journeying alongside them as both a shepherd and fellow pilgrim—an act that was deeply appreciated and inspiring to all.
Upon arriving at the shrine, the pilgrims were welcomed into a time of reflection and learning. They were shown a moving video presentation about Saint Carlo Acutis, the teenage saint-in-the-making who used technology to spread devotion to the Eucharist. His life and testimony continue to resonate powerfully with young Catholics, and the video gave the pilgrims a deeper understanding of his message and mission.
Following the video, the group received a Solemn Blessing through the Relic of Saint Carlo Acutis, led by Mgr. Canon Mark Crisp, the Parish Priest. This sacred moment allowed each pilgrim to venerate the relic prayerfully and seek Saint Carlo’s intercession in their lives, especially as they strive to live out their faith with courage and joy.
The day culminated in the celebration of the 5:30pm Vigil Mass, presided over by Bishop Timothy Menezes, whose presence served as a powerful reminder to the young people of their essential role in the life of the Church today.
We give heartfelt thanks for the dedication, faith, and joyful witness of all the young pilgrims who participated in this grace-filled day. Their presence brought great hope and energy to the Parish, and we pray that this experience will continue to bear fruit in their hearts as they walk their own paths of discipleship—always inspired by the example of Saint Carlo Acutis.

​​THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! to everyone who worked so hard over the last few months to prepare for our Canonisation Celebration last Sunday. It was a truly blessed occasion that will bear much fruit for the parish in years to come. Particular thanks to those who designed and produced the information boards, the woodworkers and seamstresses who built the shrine, the flower ladies, the youth group and those who produced the shrine video, the altar servers, readers, the singers and musicians, the offertory and thanksgiving procession, the technicians working in the background, the teachers from our primary academies, the working party members, the cake makers, the church cleaners, the gardeners who tidied the grounds (twice!), the Knights of Saint Columbus, the stewards, the staff from St Edmunds who hosted us in the afternoon, Those working on the website, the sisters always working behind the scenes, and those organising the foodbank. Thank you to all of you who attended the Mass and participated with so much enthusiasm. It truly was a joint effort and was a beautiful occasion. Finally thank you to Bishop Timothy for his inspirational celebration of the Mass.

ST CARLO PRAY FOR US
​
​Relive the joy of the Canonization ceremony on YouTube through this link ​youtu.be/HdZKz4XiGSI, cherishing the memories with heartfelt gratitude.
​

Following the Canonisation of Blessed Carlo Acutis as a Saint, students and staff from St. Martin’s and St. Peter’s Schools made their first official pilgrimage to our Saint Carlo Acutis Shrine.
The visit began with a visual presentation about the life and mission of Saint Carlo, highlighting his deep love for the Eucharist and his use of technology for evangelization. This was followed by a walk through the informative display boards at the Church, which provided valuable insights into his life, miracles, and path to Sainthood.
A deeply spiritual moment was the prayer with the relic of Saint Carlo followed by a time of Eucharistic Adoration, allowing everyone to reflect silently in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament.
The pilgrimage concluded with the Holy Eucharistic Celebration, during which our Mgr. Canon Mark Crisp the Parish Priest encouraged the students to follow the example of Saint Carlo in living a Holy and Christ-centered life.
This visit was a faith-enriching experience for all, inspiring the students to grow in their love for the Eucharist and to walk the path of Holiness in their daily lives.