News From the Archdiocese of Birmingham

‘Are we also blind?’

Reflection: Fourth Sunday of Lent

The Gospel for this Sunday recalls the healing of a man who was born blind. A question that hovers over the entire episode is placed on the lips of the Pharisees: ‘Are we also blind?’ Physical blindness and spiritual blindness are placed side by side.

The man who was born blind receives a double gift. He is given eyes to see the physical world and eyes of faith to believe what he cannot see. The gift of faith elevates his own vision so that he comes to see Jesus not simply as a man, but to recognise him as the Christ.

By contrast, the Pharisees remain in spiritual blindness: an obstinate refusal to accept the gift of faith which leaves their vision of Jesus superficial. They have no answer for the miracle they have witnessed. Their blindness leads to a rejection of the truth and to cast the man out of the community. In this way the episode anticipates Pilate’s own question ‘What is truth?’, before he hands Jesus over to be crucified.

As the season of Lent continues, we can ask about our own vision. Do we see the world with eyes of faith, or do we remain in spiritual blindness?

Fr Michael Glover

St Mary's College, Oscott

The Sunday Gospels of the Holy Season of Lent, 2026 (Year A)

Catechesis offered by the Diocesan Liturgical Commission

Liturgy and Worship is one of the four themes of Archbishop Bernard’s Diocesan Vision.

Understanding and making connections especially through our experience of Sunday Mass deepens our faith (formation), and prepares us to be more confident in sharing our faith (evangelisation and charity and social outreach).

This year, Year A, the Gospels for the Holy Season of Lent have a particular focus on themes related to baptism. Baptism is a Sacrament associated especially with the Holy Season of Eastertide. By long tradition, the preparation of candidates for adult Baptism has culminated at the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday.

Good Friday Walk of Witness, Birmingham

Come and remember the events of Good Friday with Ecumenical friends from across the City.

Starting at The Church at Carrs Lane at 10am and finishing at St Chad’s Cathedral, Friday 3 April.

All are welcome!

Lent and Easter resources

A wealth of resources for our journey through Lent to Easter are now available to access on the diocesan website.

They include Educational and Musical Resources, Retreats and Courses, Written Resources and much more.

Ideal for use individually, in schools and parishes.

Snap up your tickets now!

For the 30th anniversary production of Born for This at Symphony Hall, Birmingham, on Wednesday 25 March.

CJM Music is marking its milestone anniversary with a landmark performance of Born for This, its acclaimed musical retelling of the Way of the Cross.

Featuring six of our Catholic secondary schools from Birmingham and Solihull (St Thomas Aquinas, Bishop Challoner, St Peter's, Archbishop Ilsley, John Henry Newman, St John Wall), performing alongside a legacy cast of experienced narrators and musicians.

Archbishop Bernard has recorded a video inviting people to attend the production this Lent.

Dementia Prayer Week

Runs from today, Thursday, to Thursday 19 March

Hosted by Redemptorist Publications pastoral outreach initiative.

Dementia Prayer Week invites us to pause, pray, and stand in solidarity with those living with dementia, their families, and all who care for them. It highlights the dignity of every person, reminding us that each life remains precious and loved by God, even when memory fades.

Birmingham Bach Choir: Sacred Music

St Chad’s Cathedral hosts a special concert featuring Birmingham Bach Choir on Saturday 14 March at 7pm.

Entitled Sacred Music, the performance is presented in the run-up to Holy Week and is built around a trio of larger-scale works by three leading 16th century composers.

Sustainable Church Flowers

Discussion event in Bicester, Wednesday 18 March

Find out more about the eco-movement Sustainable Church Flowers (SCF) as we continue to care for creation across our Archdiocese.

Forty Hours for Vocations

Invitation from St John the Evangelist, Banbury. 19-21 March.

In this month of prayer for Vocations, what is He calling you to?

Join us for Quarant'Ore - Forty hours of continuous adoration.

Invitation from Oxford Pro-Life Community - coffee social

Starting at 3.30pm on Saturday 21 March at 'Love Coffee Co', Banbury Road, Summertown.

Whether you're new and would like to find out more, or a seasoned pro-lifer, come along to relax with like-minded people and stay connected with the pro-life community in and around Oxford.

Online Lecture

Pray and Give Praise: The Choral Tradition of the Eastern Church

Online lecture hosted by Maryvale Institute and St Mary's University. Wednesday 25 March, 6pm.

To mark the launch of the partnership between St Mary’s University, Twickenham and the Newman Theological Institute, Edmonton.

Guest speaker: Dr Melanie Turgeon.

World Youth Day, Seoul: Register your interest

Invitation from the Kenelm Youth Trust (KYT)

Young people from every corner of the world are heading to Seoul in summer 2027 for an unforgettable celebration of faith - and you could be one of them!

If you are aged 18-35 World Youth Day is your chance to experience the Church like never before: praying, celebrating, serving and worshipping alongside thousands of young people united as one global family. From days in the diocese to powerful vigils and masses, every moment is filled with energy, joy, and encounter.

We are holding a Zoom call on Monday 30 March at 7pm. This is a great opportunity to find out more about WYD Seoul and ask any questions you may have.

Clergy Conference for Youth Ministry

Wednesday 15 April, 10-4pm, £79

Following the success of last year's Youth Ministry Conference, Dr Julia Sadusky will be returning to explore the landscape that young people are currently navigating.

She will explore big topics that they are grappling with such as faith development, sexuality, gender, intergeneration relationships and lots more.

There will also be opportunity to take part in workshops on the themes of Mental Health & Faith, Engaging Volunteers, Gender & Identity, and responding to the Quiet Revival.

Location: Don Bosco House, Coleshill.

Youth Ministry Conference

Saturday 18 April, 9.30am-6pm (Vigil Mass with Canon Michael Dolman 5pm), £18

Calling all Parish Youth Leaders

Following the success of our 2024 Conference, we are delighted to announce that the 2026 Youth Ministry Conference is returning for our parish volunteers to the Archdiocese, this year in Royal Leamington Spa.

Dr Julia Sadusky will be returning to explore the landscape that our young people are currently navigating. She will explore big topics that they are grappling with, such as faith development, sexuality, gender, intergenerational relationships and lots more.

March for Life presents COMMISSIONED - Pro Life Men's Conference

Saturday 18 April, 10am-5pm, Birmingham Christian College, Selly Oak, Birmingham - £25

COMMISSIONED is a one‑day conference equipping men to live out their pro‑life mission with confidence and clarity.

Join a growing community committed to defending preborn children, supporting women in crisis, and speaking effectively on the pro‑life issue.

The day includes practical guidance for fathers and husbands, teaching on standing firm under pressure, insights from pro‑life history, and opportunities for discussion and connection with others.

Holy Hour for the Dignity of Life

In the Easter season, the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales will hold a Holy Hour on Sunday 19 April at 4.30pm (UK time).

This is an opportunity for the Catholics of our two nations to unite and pray for the promotion of a culture of life. We encourage parishes throughout England and Wales to hold Holy Hours around that time.

Stella Maris - Fully sponsored pilgrimage to Lourdes

Open to sick, retired and active seafarers and Fishers from the UK and EU, and their carers / family member if needed.

Stella Maris/Apostleship of the Sea is organising its inaugural Lourdes Pilgrimage, which will take place at the end of May, 25th - 30th, travelling with the Archdiocese of Birmingham.

All pilgrims must be able to self-transfer, climb a few steps and walk short distances. There are still a few spaces available!

If you, or you know of any seafarers active or retired who might be interested in joining the pilgrimage with Stella Maris, please contact Deacon John Fogarty on 07851 019134 / johnfogarty@rcaos.org.uk

Help Create a Poppy Cascade for Remembrance 2026

This year marks the 105th anniversary of the dedication of the St Chad's Cathedral War Memorial, honouring the 221 men who gave their lives in WW1. To commemorate this milestone, we are creating a poppy cascade to be displayed throughout November.

We’re inviting parishioners and friends to knit or crochet poppies for the display. Any pattern is welcome, including those from the Royal British Legion. Completed poppies can be dropped off at Cathedral House until Wednesday 30 September.

Research into the men named in our Book of Remembrance has uncovered photographs and family relics, which will also be displayed. If you have photographs of relatives named in the book, we would love to include them.

Volunteers are warmly welcomed - thank you for helping us honour their memory.

Looking to study?

The Maryvale HIRS and Maryvale@StMary's are inviting you to come and study with us.

We have a full range of programmes for every ability, from easy short courses to a five-year PhD programme.

Want to deepen your Faith? Thinking about getting more involved with your parish, Catholic organisation or Diocese? Would you like to teach in Catholic institutions?

Jobs and Volunteering

Opportunities with the Archdiocese and other organisations

Paid positions

CEO designate of large CMAT / CEO of Lumen Christi MAC

An exciting and unique opportunity for an inspiring and visionary leader to take on the role of CEO Designate of a future large and flourishing Catholic Multi-Academy Trust and CEO of Lumen Christi Multi-Academy Company from 1 September 2026.

This pivotal position will oversee the continued development and success of the MAC's nine academies while shaping the future of Catholic education in our Archdiocese. This dual role offers a significant opportunity to make a profound and lasting impact on the lives of thousands of students, staff, and the wider Catholic community.

Closing date: 12noon, Monday 16 March.

Parish Mission & Formation Co-ordinator

Permanent/full-time, across parishes of the Birmingham East Cluster.

Closing date: Friday 20 March.

Parish Secretary / Health and Safety Representative

Permanent/part-time, St Anne’s Church, Chelmsley Wood.

Closing date: Friday 20 March.

Cathedral Manager for St Chad's Cathedral, Birmingham, the Diocesan Mother Church.

The Cathedral Manager is a senior leadership role, responsible for the day‑to‑day operational and administrative management of the Cathedral and its wider site. Reporting directly to the Cathedral Dean, the post-holder enables the worship, pastoral life and mission of the Cathedral by ensuring that all non‑clerical and non‑liturgical matters are professionally managed.

Closing date: 10am, Friday 13 March.

Father Hudson's Caritas provides social care throughout the Archdiocese.

Roles currently available:

Foster Carers

Schools & Parish Engagement Officer

Full-time Roman Catholic Chaplain required at HMP Oakwood, Wolverhampton.

The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering the provision of worship and religious teachings to prisoners and staff who live and work at HMP Oakwood.

Permanent, full-time role.

Closing date: Tuesday 17 March.

Finance Manager, Friends of the Holy Land

An exciting opportunity to help shape the future of the charity, implementing an online accounting system and adapting our current processes to the new systems.

Closing date: Monday 30 March.

Voluntary Positions

Lead Trustee for Safeguarding and Lead Trustee for Property

The Trustees are seeking to appoint skilled and committed Catholic volunteers with relevant professional experience.

Board members, St Raphael the Archangel CMAT, Warwickshire.

Following the successful launch of the 63‑school St Gabriel the Archangel CMAT (Catholic Multi Academy Trust) in September, the Archdiocese is now progressing plans to establish another CMAT in the north of the Diocese.

St Raphael the Archangel CMAT will bring together the Our Lady of the Magnificat and Holy Spirit MACs, along with several voluntary aided schools.

A new Board of Directors will oversee the Trust, with the Board set to be established in summer 2026 to support a smooth transition ahead of the formal merger.

We are seeking dedicated individuals to join the Board and help shape the strategic direction of St Raphael the Archangel CMAT, working closely with CEO Sinead Smith and the executive team.

Closing date: 12noon, Friday 20 March.

Oxford Pro-Life Community is working to build a living and lively community of people in Oxford that has a real impact in promoting the respect for the inviolable right to life of all human beings.

If that sounds exciting to you and you can spare an hour or so a week please visit the website to find out more.

Several other opportunities are also advertised on our website including:

A week of free residential work experience with the St Vincent de Paul Society and CAFOD.

Become a Faith Rep with Mary's Meals.

CAFOD is looking for new School Volunteers.

Parish Appealers are needed by Aid to the Church in Need (ACN).

Volunteer at Tabor Living, Birmingham.

Does Science Pose a Threat to Today’s Catholicism?

Webinar, Monday 16 March

The Catholic Union is delighted to announce that it will be holding a webinar on Monday 16 March at 6pm to explore whether science poses a threat to today’s Catholicism.

Chaired by Catherine Pepinster, well known journalist, attendees will hear from Revd Dr Gareth Leyshon, Astrophysicist, Catholic Priest of the Archdiocese of Cardiff-Menevia and parish priest of the four churches comprising Our Lady of the Valleys.

Those wishing to register for the webinar please email info@catholicunion.org.uk and a zoom link will be provided. Booking is essential.

Come and See - Discernment Retreat for young Catholic women at Minster Abbey

Share the rhythm of daily monastic prayer and life.

For single Roman Catholic women aged 18-35 open to discerning a monastic vocation.

Hosted by the Benedictine Nuns of Minster Abbey, Kent.

Three weekends available in 2026:

Palm Sunday Weekend, Friday 27 - Sunday 29 March

Friday 7 - Sunday 9 August

Friday 9 - Sunday 11 October.

All Kinds of Catholic: In-person event

Join the podcast community for an event in Leicester, Saturday 21 March

An opportunity to meet All Kinds of Catholic podcast host, Theresa Alessandro, fellow podcast listeners and previous guests.

Be there while Theresa records a new conversation with a pod guest. We'll have a simple lunch together with some good conversations about our faith.

There will be a chance to share what you enjoy about the podcast and ask questions. The day will finish with a time of prayer.

Catholic Young Writer Award 2026

Deadline for Entries - Tuesday 30 June

The theme for 2026 Catholic Young Writer Award is The Church’s Sacrament of Forgiveness: Why We Go to Confession.

The Catholic Young Writer Award for Catholic school pupils of secondary school age was launched by The Keys, the Catholic Writers Guild of England of England and Wales in the 1990s and has been flourishing ever since. It is now sponsored by the Catholic Union Charitable Trust.

The winners are invited to the Annual Meeting of the Catholic Union, held each Autumn in London, to receive their prizes from the President, Baroness Hollins.

Forming Catholic Student Leaders

Two summer courses exploring faith, ethics and leadership for sixth form students, offered by the Christian Heritage Centre at Stonyhurst.

Join us for six days in the beautiful Ribble Valley to explore themes linked to The Common Good (Year 12, 10-15 August) and to The Human Ecology (Year 13, 5-10 July).

Meet new friends, discuss and share with peers, tutors and academics, learn new skills, develop your relationship with Christ, build your character.

Deadline: Thursday 30 April.

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