This year’s annual Clergy Night / Christmas Dinner was special in two respects. Firstly, as well as Fr Jack and Sarah, we were honoured by the presence of Bishop Richard Moth, just a few days before the announcement that Pope Leo XIV had appointed him to succeed Cardinal Vincent Nichols as Archbishop of Westminster.
Secondly, we were delighted to honour two longstanding members of the Circle when Bishop Richard presented ’40 year scrolls’ and miniatures to Richard Hawkins and Max Siwicki – who this year marked 40 years’ membership of the organisation. Bishop Richard was joined in the presentation by National Vice President Richard Mills.
Bishop Richard addressed the 65 diners present, focusing in particular on his work as liaison bishop for prisons for the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, asking that we remember prisoners and especially their families in our prayers at Christmas, which can be a very difficult time for those affected.
This was a fabulous evening which was really enjoyed by all present and at which we also raised £515 for President Larry’s charity, Facial Palsy UK.
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- Circle President Larry Newman with National VP Richard Mills, 40 year scroll recipients Richard Hawkins and Max Siwicki, and Bishop Richard
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- Larry & Elaine Newman, Provincial President Peter Taylor & Anne, National VP Richard Mills & Mary, Max & Liz Siwicki, Richard & Carolyn Hawkins, Fr Jack Lusted, Bishop Richard
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- Bishop Richard presents a 40 year scroll to Richard Hawkins
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- Bishop Richard presents a 40 year scroll to Max Siwicki
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- The Three Richards: National VP Richard Mills, Richard Hawkins and Bishop Richard
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- National VP Richard Mills, Siwicki and Bishop Richard
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- Bishop Richard addresses the diners
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- Bishop Richard plays a joke on Fr. Jack
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- President Larry proposes a toast to the guests
