The Catenian Association is an international body of proudly Catholic laymen and permanent deacons who meet at least once a month in local groups called Circles, to enjoy each other's company and thereby strengthen their family life through friendship, faith and fun! It is open to practising Catholic laymen from the age of 18 years. Many of the Circles’ activities involve the members’ wives and families.
This year's championship took place after their March meeting. The winner of the Ladies trophy was Mrs Pat Murphy, her husband Bro. Tony had won the Men's trophy last year. This year however was the turn of Bro. John Maguire.
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| Bro. Organiser PGP Mike O'Malley with Mrs Pat Murphy |
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| Winning Bro. John Maguire with PGP Mike O'Malley |
At the February meeting of Lytham St Annes Circle two scrolls were awarded. Bro. Tom Carter received his 60-year scroll from Bro. GB National President Roger Lillie and Provincial Secretary Bro. Mike Grayston his 40-year scroll from GB National VP Mark Conroy.
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| Bro. Tom (seated) with his scroll and GB NP Roger Lillie |
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| Bro. Mike Grayston and GB NP Mark Conroy |
This year Broughton-in-Craven Circle celebrated Burns Night at Colne Golf Club. There were 30 diners including guests.
This year's Past President's lunch was again held at Ferrari's and the food and service were as good as ever. The numbers were down on previous years but those who attended all enjoyed themselves.
The December walk for the Longridge Walking Group was a promenade to a restaurant in early January to celebrate a successful year of walks, good food and excellent company.
This year Bistrot Pierre was chosen and for those not familiar it is a beautifully restored 19th-century Baptist church, shortlisted for an International Restaurant Design Award, the church has stood in Preston town centre for over 160 years.
This was chosen as it is adjacent to the train station and only a short walk from the bus station in the heart of Preston meaning those attending may partake of a quaff or two of the Bistrot's fine selection of beers and or wines without the worry of driving.
The menu has dishes inspired, we're told, by their travels around France combining Bistrot classics with new seasonal dishes.
Thanks to our organiser and chief negotiator, Bob Rhimes, 27 sat down to wonderful food and fine wine included in the prices on the day.
Garstang Circle again organised the annual carol concert on behalf of Province. This year only three circles provided choirs, there are still 13 circles in the Province and less than half were represented! Those who attended the event had a most enjoyable evening.
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| Garstang Circle choir |
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| Lytham St Annes Circle choir |
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| Accrington Circle choir |
The Circle's traditional family Christmas lunch was held at the Glendower Hotel with 90 people sitting down to dine, a lower number than in previous years. After a suburb meal, Father Christmas and his loyal Elf arrived and distributed presents to all the children and the wives of our deceased Brothers. Also one lucky Brother was summoned FOUR times by Santa. (He must have been exceptionally good!) Then followed a good raffle and carol singing accompanied on the hotel's baby grand piano. A really good start to Christmas.
