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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
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 |
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