Crusade of Rescue

This year's Benefactor's Mass was special, in that it occurred in the 150th Centenary year of the founding of the Society's predecessor, The Crusade of Rescue. This was at the beautiful St Etheldreda's Church. It was special, also, because there was the chance to thank Bishop Bernard Longley at his final Mass, as Chairman of the Catholic Children's Society (Westminster), before taking up his new Role, as Archbishop of Birmingham. Whilst sad to be losing such a long time dedicated Bishop, it gave us the chance to also wish Bishop Bernard, well, as the appointed Diocesan Archbishop of the important Archdiocese of Birmingham, and to assure him we would always be in our prayers. "We will really miss you Archbishop Bernard."

It was also a chance for us to wish Deacon Jim Richards, the retiring Chief Executive of the Catholic Children's Society (Westminster), after a long and distinguished service in that position and to welcome the new Chief Executive, Rosemary Keenan, who has been Jim's deputy for some years. We also assure these two people of our support and prayers in their new roles.

The St. Ignatius Liturgy Boys Choir brought some inspiring singing to this special Mass, which was warmly praised by Bishop Bernard and enjoyed by the Congregation. It seemed that the boys also enjoyed bringing their contribution to this rather special event. Congratulations Boys, to you all, and to your guiding Priest, Fr. Tim Byron SJ.

The Annual Trip to the Seaside at Dymchurch, Kent

A number of Old Boys of Blaisdon Hall - a property bought jointly by the Crusade and the Salesian Order - who were also Old Boys of the Crusade of Rescue, at St. Joseph's Home in Enfield reaching back to the early 1930s, were privileged to be at this rather special Celebration. These were Peter Landsborough, Charles Calder, Norman & Sylvia Taylor and some of their family, Eric Nutcher and John Ward. Also Anita and Betty from St Anthony's Feltham Girls Home. Apologies if I missed anyone else who was there.

During this buffet, Norman Taylor read out what he termed "A Christmas Story" about the happenings at St Joseph's Home in Enfield. Bishop Bernard expressed his delight that these stories are committed to the history and experiences of those early days.

Click here to read Norman's recollections of Christmas at St Joseph's, Enfield..

As usual, after the Service , we all went down into the Crypt, which was the original St Etheldreda's Church. This was especially and beautifully set out in round tables with the delicious buffet already at each table. Our thanks go to those wonderful staff of the CCS(W) and others who had spent their time in ensuring that this was a special celebration for those taking up new positions or retiring ( Deacon Jim)!, who are mentioned above. It was also rather special for the rest of us Benefactors and guests. Our thanks go to Giulio Conti and the staff from Pane Cafe for the excellent catering provided to make this a

Special Event.

Bishop Bernard and Roesmary Keenan Exchange of booklet of best wishes to new CEO

Deacon Jim applauding Rosemary the new CEO