Twenty-four heartfelt, profound and challenging stories

I take absolutely no credit for the idea behind “Why I’m a Catholic“. Whilst discussing plans for evangelisation during Lent and Easter, it was Canon John Lumley who hit upon the idea of listening to and sharing stories of our faith journeys.

At first I was a little sceptical, wondering whether people would be attracted to come, and questioning the ability of our stories to inspire others to take steps in faith. I was totally wrong. It was truly an amazing event, which moved many to tears and laughter in equal measure.

“Why I’m a Catholic” attracted a total of around 300 people to its six sessions, quite a number being people beginning to show or rekindle interest in the Catholic faith. I’m grateful to the priests and people who issued a personal invitation or brought them along.

I’m grateful especially to the twenty-four speakers: Bishop Terence Drainey, Frs Tony Lester, David Grant, Eddie Gubbins, Pat Cope and John O’Gara, Deacons Peter Warren and Bernard Morgan, and Louise Williams, Hannah Coyle, Janelle Naylor, Hilda Hedley, Maggie Hunt, Cam Nertney, Betty East, Penny Fewster, Barbara Hungin, Marie McClelland, David Barwick, David Cross, Mick Thorpe, John Underwood, Peter Ainscough, and Oliver Barron. They were all carefully and thoughtfully prepared, and all speaking from the heart.

Their stories were so engaging that one could constantly see chords being struck amongst the listeners – smiles and nods that indicated our common yet personal experiences. After the speakers had finished, we had time to briefly share our own connections with the stories, and reflect for ourselves on the question of why I’m a Catholic.

The evening finished with a reminder of the vital role of our storytelling and bearing witness to our faith. We touched on some examples from the Scriptures of Lent and Easter – the Samaritan woman, the man born blind, the witnesses at the empty tomb, the preaching of the Apostles, and the road to Emmaus. Without people boldly proclaiming what Jesus Christ had done in their lives, there may not even have been a Church.

Yes, many of us were moved to tears and laughter, but I wondered whether anyone was moved to greater commitment? Then a few days ago I took a telephone call from a priest on Teesside. A lady who had been invited to “Why I’m a Catholic” had knocked on his presbytery door and asked to join the RCIA group with a view to conversion.

So I’m really thankful for the many ways in which the Holy Spirit has inspired voices, minds and hearts throughout “Why I’m a Catholic“, not least for giving Canon John such a simple yet brilliant idea. Many thanks to all who participated or helped in any way.

Jane Cook, Adult Formation Adviser