What are the Catenians? The Catenian Association is an international brotherhood of practising Catholic laymen who meet socially, at least once a month, in local branches, known as Circles. Members refer to each other as 'brother'. This reflects the strength of the mutual support they give to each other and their families, which is based on the shared values of their Catholic belief and practice.

In an increasingly secular society, the Association provides a sociable and supporting haven (an oasis of calm) for those facing challenges to their beliefs and moral values in their business, professional and family lives. Through their membership Catenians are helped to enjoy and fulfil their various vocations in life. Firstly as baptised Christians and also in their family as a husband and father; in their chosen profession or workplace; within the civil community and within the church.

The Association's name is derived from the Latin 'Catena' (a chain) with the Circles being the links in the chain. The emblem consists of a continuous chain of links surrounding a cross. This symbolizes that our Catholic faith is at the centre of all we do. The Association is not a fund raising agent for the Catholic Church, nor is it a Catholic action group. However, it is a group of active Catholics. On an individual basis, Catenians take an active part in the life of their parishes and many play a leading role in their dioceses and Catholic lay organisations locally and nationally. The Association is non-political though Catenians are prominent in many aspects of public life and service.

The benefits of membership include the opportunity to:-

• Meet socially and draw support from other Catholic laymen with similar values.
• Become part of a close yet international community that offers lifelong support and friendship to members and their families.
• Mix with other Catholic laymen in business, commerce, education, public service and the professions.
• Enjoy interesting and varied social events for members and their families.
• Provide collective support for the church and clergy.
• Receive spiritual and practical support in times of difficulty or need.

How did the Catenians begin?

The Association began when there was still suspicion of, and bigotry towards, Catholics. The Catenians provided the encouragement and mutual support then necessary to empower Catholic men to have the confidence to take their place in business, the professions and public service.

Ê Thankfully times have changed. However, now different pressures make the support network provided by the Association just as relevant for Catholic laymen trying to live a Christian life within the context of family, work and leisure in an increasing secular society. The deep and lasting friendships, built on the solid foundation of shared faith and values, ensure a member is never alone whatever difficulties he or a member of his family encounters over the years.

A ready-made supportive circle of friends:-

These difficulties can arise from major issues like bereavement, redundancy or serious illness; the every day pressures of bringing up children, caring for elderly relatives and those with special needs; and the challenges to one's beliefs in the work place be it in the world of medicine, education or business where corporate employment or trading policies are contrary to justice and respect for human dignity. The Association also has much to offer converts, immigrants and others who do not have a ready-made network of Catholic friends. Friendship within the Catenian Association is far deeper than the nodding acquaintance at Mass, which is all that is available to so many.

Ê The monthly meeting provides a time for relaxed enjoyment among supporting and faithful friends. If a Brother and his family have to relocate for any reason, the spread of Catenian Circles will often provide a ready-made and supportive Circle of friends.

Ê There are many opportunities in the Catenian year for members and their families to join in the celebration of the Mass: including President's Sunday, Masses for deceased Brothers and the annual Mass for Vocations to the priesthood and religious life arranged by every Circle around the world.

Ê We meet every 2nd. Tuesday of the month at the Apollo Hotel, Hagley Road, Edgbaston, at 7.15pm. If you would like to join the Catenians in Harborne / Edgbaston or would like further information please contact Tony Rollason via the St. Mary's Parish Office or send an e-mail to him at anthonyrollason@blueyonder.co.uk

The main web site for the Catenians is:-www.thecatenians.com. <<<< Please click here.