CoR Gathers Members and Colleagues to Oppose Assisted Dying Bill

CoR members and colleagues meet via Zoom to discuss opposition to the Assisted Dying Bill

Following the Conference of Religious England and Wales (CoR) AGM 2025, where over 70 leaders of religious congregations gathered and expressed a united stance against the Assisted Dying Bill, members have continued to come together in shared discernment and solidarity.

Today, CoR members met for an online forum to continue the conversation around this pressing issue. In a spirit of inclusivity and collaboration, the meeting was also open to lay colleagues. The invitation was extended to members, those they live and work with, and their wider networks, recognising that the Assisted Dying Bill, if passed, would have significant implications not only for Religious but also for those they work with and care for. 

Coming together in this way offered a valuable space to share concerns, reflect on developments, and explore how religious and lay partners can use their collective voice most effectively in the public arena.

The forum allowed participants to deepen their understanding of the current legislative context and to discuss practical ways to advocate for a culture that upholds the dignity and value of life at every stage. It also provided an opportunity to strengthen bonds between congregations supporting one another in prayer, action, and public witness.

This ongoing engagement reflects the commitment of CoR members and their colleagues to standing together on matters of moral and social concern. As the national conversation around assisted dying continues, the voices of religious women and men—and their lay partners—remain united in affirming life and compassionate care over legislative change.

Looking ahead, congregations are continuing to write to their MPs and to raise awareness within their communities. Many also plan to attend a peaceful protest in London on 20th June, organised by Christian Concern. Further details are available on the CoR website. Recognising that not everyone will be able to travel to the capital, others are encouraged to take a stand wherever they are in the country, through prayer, local witness, or symbolic acts of solidarity at the same time as the London event.

CoR will continue to facilitate opportunities for members and their colleagues to meet, reflect, and act together on this and other critical issues. The regular online Care Forum, being held on 25th June 2025, will offer a follow-up opportunity to consider the outcome of the debate and potential vote in Parliament on 20th June.

Explore Upcoming Events at the FCJ Centre for Spirituality and EcoJustice

The FCJ Centre in Euston is offering a wide and inspiring programme of events this summer, both in person and online. From spiritual retreats and environmental reflection to community action and creative prayer, the programme invites individuals and groups to engage deeply with faith, justice, and creation.

Highlights include:

• Revisiting Laudato Si’ – Marking 10 years of this prophetic encyclical (7 June)

• Braiding Sweetgrass – An evening of reflection on our connection with the Earth (13 June)

• Refugee Week Vigil – A witness of prayer outside the Home Office (16 June)

• Online Evening Retreat – Exploring the “I Am” sayings of Jesus through poetry and image (26 June)

• Circle Dance & Prayer – A day of movement and meditation (19 July)

• Young Adult Network Walk – A chance to connect with others and nature (20 July)

• National Justice & Peace Network Conference – Attend all or part of this key gathering (25–27 July)

📩 The full list of events can be found in the FCJ Centre’s June 2025 newsletter:
👉 View the newsletter here

📰 To receive future updates directly from the FCJ Centre, sign up for their newsletter:
👉 Subscribe here

These events offer a rich opportunity to engage with themes of spirituality, community, and social justice. Do explore and share with anyone who might be interested.

Residential Property Sought for Religious Community

A religious congregation is currently seeking a residential property within London, nearby surrounding areas, or Brighton. The property should have a minimum of 6 rooms and be appropriate for community life.

If you are aware of any suitable properties or would like to discuss this further, please contact the Secretariat via communications@corew.org.

Updated Invitation to Join Protest Opposing the Assisted Dying Bill – 20 June 2025

All Catholic communities are invited to join an interfaith protest against the Assisted Dying Bill, now taking place on Friday, 20 June 2025.

This change follows confirmation that the Third Reading of the Bill is scheduled for the same day. The protest has been rescheduled to ensure maximum visibility and impact.

Date: Friday, 20 June 2025 (updated from 13 June) Time: From 8:30am to 3:00pm Location: Old Palace Yard, by the statue of George V, SW1P 3JY

This peaceful demonstration brings together people of all faiths in a united stand for the protection and sanctity of life. The Religious Life Safeguarding Service (RLSS) will be present, with CEO Melissa Andrews and members of her team in attendance.

All members of religious communities are warmly encouraged to attend and show visible support.

While not mandatory, registering your intention to attend will help organisers with planning and logistics.

You can sign up here: 👉 Register via Eventbrite – Stand Against Assisted Suicide

Even if you’re unsure now, you are welcome to attend on the day without prior registration.

This is a vital opportunity to stand together and raise a collective voice in opposition to the Assisted Dying Bill.

Conference of Religious AGM 2025: Religious Leaders Unite in Synodal Leadership and Oppose the Assisted Dying Bill

Over 80 leaders of religious congregations gathered last week in Northamptonshire for the 2025 Conference of Religious England and Wales (CoR) Annual General Meeting, held under the theme “Synodal Leadership – Forward Thinking – Outward Facing.” The two-day gathering featured keynote input from Sr Maria Cimperman RSCJ and included space for deep reflection, listening, and shared discernment.

Members explored priorities such as synodal leadership, increasing diversity, nurturing new leadership, and strengthening the collective voice of religious in the Church and wider society.

As part of the gathering, attendees expressed their united opposition to the Assisted Dying Bill, standing together in support of life and dignity at every stage, and exploring ways to respond collectively as people of faith.

The AGM concluded with a renewed commitment to synodality, inclusivity, and collaborative leadership—affirming the enduring value of religious life in service of Gospel witness and social justice.

Shepherds Law Hermitage Open Day

The February 2025 edition of Shepherds Law News shares recent updates from the Hermitage, including reflections on the recent Monastic Week, a look ahead to this summer’s Open Day, news on ongoing building work, and other community developments.

To read the full newsletter and stay connected with life at the Hermitage, please visit:
🌐 shepherdslawhermitage.org

UISG Upcoming Events: Synodality, Leadership, and Spiritual Accompaniment in Religious Life

The International Union of Superiors General (UISG) invite religious sisters, brothers, and lay collaborators to participate in a series of events focusing on synodality, shared leadership, and healthy spiritual accompaniment within the Church.

Synodality and Collaboration Among Communicators

Date: Wednesday, 4 June 2025
Time: 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Rome time)
Format: In-person and online
Location: UISG Headquarters, Piazza di Ponte Sant'Angelo, 28, Rome
Organised by: MMI (Media Missione International)uisg.orguisg.org+4uisg.org+4USG - Unione Superiori Generali+4uisg.org+9USG - Unione Superiori Generali+9uisg.org+9

This meeting invites all involved in the communication ministries of religious congregations to explore how synodality shapes communication in religious life.

🔗 Learn more and register

Untapping What Is Already Possible: Leadership of Women and Laymen for a Synodal Church

Date: Tuesday, 10 June 2025
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Rome time)
Format: Online webinar
Organised by: UISG, in collaboration with WUCWO (World Union of Catholic Women’s Organisations)uisg.org+4uisg.org+4uisg.org+4

This event offers reflection and dialogue on shared leadership within today’s Church, drawing from paragraph 60 of the Final Document of the Synod, which calls for the full implementation of existing opportunities in Canon Law for women.uisg.org

🔗 Learn more and register

Spiritual Abuses: How to Listen and Accompany a Cry

Date: Monday, 16 June 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Rome time)
Format: Online webinar
Organised by: UISGuisg.org+2uisg.org+2uisg.org+2USG - Unione Superiori Generali+5uisg.org+5uisg.org+5

This webinar aims to explore, from a canonical perspective, the situations in which religious life is called to be vigilant so that healthy spiritual accompaniment does not degenerate into inappropriate behavior or actual abuse.

🔗 Learn more and register

These events are open to all members of religious congregations and lay collaborators. Participants are encouraged to engage in these conversations as part of the Church’s wider synodal journey.

Organised from Rome, Italy – open to international participants.

Prospects and Hope for the Papacy of Leo XIV

An Evening Conference – Open to All

An engaging evening conference will take place this June, offering reflections on the prospects and hopes for the papacy of Leo XIV. Featuring a panel of distinguished speakers, the event invites attendees to explore the evolving role of the Church in the modern world.

Confirmed Speakers:

• H.E. Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendía
  Apostolic Nuncio to Great Britain

• H.E. Mr. Ignacio Higueras Hare
  Ambassador of Peru

• Fr. Dominic Robinson, SJ
  Parish Priest, Church of the Immaculate Conception, Farm Street

Further guest speakers will be announced shortly.

🗓 Date: Friday, 20 June 2025
🕕 Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
📍 Venue: To be confirmed

💷 Conference Fee: £35

Booking Details:

Those wishing to attend should send their name and address to:
Anthony Weaver
Retreats Beyond Dover
19 G Peabody, Wild Street, Covent Garden, London WC2B 4BQ
📞 Tel: 020 7379 7273
✉️ Email: retreatsdover@gmail.com

Payment Information:
Bank: NatWest
Account Number: 69134162
Sort Code: 56-00-20

Places are limited and early booking is advised. All are welcome.

Further details, including the confirmed venue, will be shared soon.

Loreto Spirituality Centre, Llandudno

The Loreto Spirituality Centre in Llandudno provides a wide selection of options to cater to individual needs.

Living Theology Summer School 10th - 13th July

Living Theology: A Summer School in Christian Faith

A Summer School in Christian Faith. Living Theology has been organised by Jesuits and their associates in venues across the country for over 50 years. The courses continue to provide opportunities for Christians of all denominations to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith and develop their personal reflection on Christian living and belief. No prior theological knowledge is required, just an open mind and willingness to engage.

Click here for more information about the courses as well as a booking form.

Website

Retreat Programme for 2025

Latest Newsletter

The Distance Learning Programmes in Catholic Theology

The Distance Learning programmes in Catholic Theology, led by Durham University’s Centre for Catholic Studies (CCS), are designed so that participants can work through material at their own pace, studying equally well in any time zone and in many different life situations, alongside work, ministry, family or caring obligations. 

In addition to the Postgraduate Certificate, the Postgraduate Diploma, and the MA, students can enrol for a single module. Students with a BA or BSc who have not studied Theology or a related discipline before, are able to apply for the single module, ‘Catholic Theology: A Preliminary Tour’ and proceed to the MA following its successful completion. Further details are available at Distance Learning – Durham University including videos from current students.

NEW BURSARY FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR 2025-26 – The Janet Erskine Stuart Scholarship Fund, funded by the Society of the Sacred Heart (RSCJ), intended primarily to support teachers or chaplains. Applications are especially invited from:

• Teachers of RE wishing to pursue an MA to enhance the quality of their subject knowledge.

• Teachers of any discipline who wish to retrain to teach RE.

Other bursary funds are also available. Full information can be found at CCS Bursary for Distance Learning 2025-26 - Durham University

If you have any questions about the Distance Learning programmes or bursaries, please contact the CCS Manager - theresa.phillips@durham.ac.uk - 0191 334 3952.

Centre for Applied Carmelite Spirituality (CACS) Summer Summit and Summer school

Exploring the Spiritual Legacy of Saint Thérèse – Spirituality Summit 2025

The Carmelite Spirituality Summit returns in 2025 with a special two-day gathering on 11–12 July, marking the 100th anniversary of the canonisation of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux. Taking place at the peaceful Carmelite Priory in Oxford, with the option to attend online, this year’s theme focuses on Living in Hope: The Spirituality of Saint Thérèse.

The summit will feature renowned speakers, including Dr. Susan Muto, who will reflect on Thérèse’s enduring message of hope, and Fr. Vincent O’Hara, OCD, exploring her personal struggles with faith and how they resonate today.

Attendees will benefit from inspiring keynote talks, interactive workshops, and panel discussions, all designed to deepen understanding of Saint Thérèse’s “little way” and its relevance for modern spiritual seekers. Moments of shared reflection and prayer will also create space for personal growth and community connection.

Whether attending in person or online, participants will find the summit a rich opportunity for spiritual nourishment and renewal.

Event Details:

• Dates: 11–12 July 2025

• Location: Carmelite Priory, Boars Hill, Oxford OX1 5HB, UK / Online

• More Info & Registration: carmelite.uk.net

Deepen Your Spiritual Journey at the 2025 Summer School with Dr. Susan Muto

The Centre for Applied Carmelite Spirituality is pleased to announce its annual Summer School, featuring esteemed scholar Dr. Susan Muto. This enriching five-day seminar will take place from July 14 to 18, 2025, at the serene Carmelite Priory in Boars Hill, Oxford.​

Event Highlights:

• In-Depth Exploration of Teresian Spirituality: Delve into the teachings of St. Teresa of Ávila, the renowned Carmelite mystic and first female Doctor of the Church, focusing on her seminal work, The Way of Perfection.​

• Expert Guidance: Benefit from the insights of Dr. Susan Muto, Dean of the Epiphany Academy of Formative Spirituality and author of over forty books on Christian spirituality.​

• Comprehensive Programme: Engage in spiritual accompaniment, guided prayer, silence, and peaceful contemplation designed to nurture the whole person—body, mind, soul, and spirit.​

Moreover, attendees will have the unique opportunity to celebrate the Solemnity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel with the Carmelite Friars during their visit.​

Event Details:

• Dates: July 14–18, 2025​

• Location: Carmelite Priory, Boars Hill, Oxford OX1 5HB, UK​

• Registration: Secure your place by booking before June 1, 2025.​

For more information and to register, please visit: carmelite.uk.net

Call for Papers and Workshop Proposals, Franciscan Studies Conference 14-16 April 2026

Life and Love Transfigured: Exploring New Horizons in the Franciscan Tradition

A Conference to Mark the 800th Anniversary of the Death of St. Francis of Assisi

Tuesday 14th to Thursday 16th April 2026

Durham University, UK

Call for Papers and Workshop Proposals

To mark the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi, the Centre for Catholic Studies (CCS) at Durham University will hold its third international Franciscan Studies conference. The Transitus of Saint Francis in 1226 completed the Poverello’s earthly life. Successive generations have interpreted and carried forward the witness and teachings of the Saint and his early followers. This conference seeks to celebrate and share the fruits of this legacy against new horizons, addressing contemporary challenges and concerns.

The aim of the conference will be to bring together people from different walks of life – academic and non-academic, religious and lay – who have a deep love for St. Francis of Assisi, the Franciscan tradition, and the abiding relevance of the Franciscan charism for the modern world. The conference will be held at locations in Durham itself as well as at Ushaw College, a former Roman Catholic Seminary a few miles outside of Durham.

The conference will consist of academic panels and plenary lectures by world leading scholars of the Franciscan tradition, as well as public talks by those working in contemporary Franciscan evangelisation, workshops on the Franciscan way of life and Franciscan ministry, ecumenical worship, and opportunities for fellowship and communal reflection.

The conference will have three main strands: (1) Franciscan theology and philosophy; (2) Franciscan history; and (3) Franciscan spirituality, aesthetics, and evangelism. The conference organisers welcome papers from researchers in fields including, but not limited to, Franciscan theology, Franciscan history, Franciscan science, Franciscan literary studies, Franciscan philosophy, Franciscan spirituality, the Poor Clare and wider female Franciscan traditions, the Franciscan Tertiary tradition, Franciscan ecumenism and interreligious dialogue, Franciscan art, poetry, and music, Franciscan education, Franciscan liturgical thought and practice, Franciscan economic and political philosophy, as well as Franciscan ministry and Franciscan contributions to peace studies, outreach, and pastoral-social work.

Confirmed speakers include:

Fr Casey Cole, OFM (Digital Evangelist and Creator of Breaking in the Habit podcast).

Prof. Richard Cross (University of Notre Dame, Indiana)

Fr Dr Michael Cusato OFM (Scholar-in-Residence, St. Bonaventure Friary, NY)

Prof. Daniel Horan (St Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Indiana)

Dr William Hyland (University of St Andrews)

Prof. John McCafferty (University College Dublin)

Dr Darleen Pryds (Franciscan School of Theology, University of San Diego)

Prof. Lydia Schumacher (Kings College London)

We invite proposals for 20-minute papers. Panel proposals consisting of three speakers are also encouraged.

We also invite proposals for 90-minute workshops offering a space for delegates to come together to discuss issues or subjects important to Franciscans, e.g. ministry, outreach, issues relation to community life, the Franciscan voice in the church, etc.

Please submit proposals for papers or workshops (c. 200 words) via the form at https://forms.office.com/e/s06nt9CrNW by 30 October 2025 at the latest.

Contact for any queries: Dr William Crozier – william.e.crozier@durham.ac.uk

AI, Faith and Ethics at a Crossroads: Discerning the Way Forward

Sunday 18 May 2025, 3-5pm

Farm Street Church, 114 Mount Street, W1K 3AH

A Panel Discussion Exploring the Moral and Spiritual Challenges of the AI Era followed by an opportunity for Q&A.

You are welcome to come to this unique event to hear from experts discussing Faith and Ethics in a time of technological transformation

Fr. Michael Baggot, Invited Professor of Theology at Pontifical University of St Thomas Aquinas, Rome,

Matthew Harvey Sanders, CEO of Longbeard, Creator of Magisterium AI,

Jen Copestake, Correspondent CGTN Europe

Fr Dominic Robinson SJ,

Parish Priest Farm Street Church

Free to attend but please register your place by emailing farmstreetoffice@rcdow.org.uk

Livestreaming available by visiting https://www.farmstreet.org.uk/livestream

CoREW Welcomes the Election of Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo XIV - Tiziana Fabi/AFP via Getty Images

The Conference of Religious England and Wales (CoREW) warmly welcomes the election of Pope Leo XIV. We believe his global experience will have a positive impact on his leadership of the Catholic Church in these difficult times.

He has witnessed first hand the struggles that our sisters and brothers are experiencing. We are confident he will be a voice and inspiration for all people.

We join in prayer for him as he continues the challenging task of enabling the Church to listen to the Spirit moving across the world and proclaim the Gospel in a way that speaks to our present age.

Seeking Accommodation for New Missional Community in London

The Missionary Sisters for Polish Migrants are looking to establish a new missional community in the Islington area of London. They are currently seeking accommodation for two Sisters, either in a flat or in a convent located in or near Islington, or within a 30-minute journey by Tube.

If you are able to assist or would like to find out more, please contact the CoR secretariat at 020 3255 1085 or communications@corew.org, and we will be happy to direct your enquiry to the appropriate contact.

Better Together Group

Douai Abbey

The Better Together group is open to anyone, lay or religious, who is involved in supporting Religious Communities caring for the sick and elderly, either within their communities or in their own nursing/care homes. The group is hosted on Zoom by Dr Karen Groves and Queenscourt Hospice, Southport. Most members are either part of religious communities or healthcare professionals who work alongside them. Once a year, the group meets in person for a couple of days.

In April, the group was blessed to be hosted by Douai Abbey (and by fine weather!). This year’s theme was The Heart of Healthcare, with speakers leading sessions on spiritual distress, cardiac health, listening skills, spiritual care for the frail in community, and the link between Catholic teaching and mutual support for well-being. For evening entertainment, the group watched the film Patch Adams. Members also joined the Douai Community for Mass and the Divine Office, and enjoyed the delicious food and other comforts of the Guest House. Particular thanks were given to Brother Christopher for hosting, to Fr Alex the Guest Master, to Brother Aidan for leading a walk, and to Fr Geoffrey for a wonderful tour of the archives.

Anyone interested in joining the group can email Lorna Chamberlain at education@queenscourt.org.uk. Those wishing to explore the group can attend a meeting to see if they would like to become regular members. Meetings take place at 8 am on a Thursday morning once a month, last exactly one hour, and cover different themes requested, and usually led, by members.

Douai Abbey

In Memoriam: His Holiness Pope Francis

It is with deep sorrow that the Conference of Religious in England and Wales joins the Church and the global Catholic community in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.

Pope Francis's life was a profound witness to the Gospel, marked by a deep commitment to justice, peace, and the dignity of all people. His leadership, humility, and unwavering faith were an inspiration to countless religious and lay people around the world.

We give thanks for his life and ministry, and we hold him in our prayers with gratitude and love. May he know the fullness of God’s peace and the eternal embrace of Christ, whom he served so faithfully.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May he rest in peace. Amen.

Operation Noah CST Toolkit and Webinar Series

New Resource & Webinar Series: Catholic Social Teaching and Investing

Operation Noah is pleased to share a new toolkit, Catholic Social Teaching and Investing in Climate Solutions, a guide for Catholic organisations seeking to align their investments with CST. This practical resource supports responsible financial stewardship in the context of the climate crisis.

To explore this with other Catholic investors, join the lunchtime webinar series starting on Tuesday, 29th April 2025 at 1pm BST and learn how CST can inform impactful climate investments.

Download the toolkit and register for the webinars here: https://www.operationnoah.org/catholic-social-teaching-toolkit/

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales Spirituality Consultation Day “Living the Charism Today for Lay Spirituality”

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales is hosting a Spirituality Consultation Day titled “Living the Charism Today for Lay Spirituality” on Thursday, 19 June 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., at the Redemptorist Monastery in Clapham, London.

This special day of reflection and dialogue will explore the rich spiritual wisdom of the Benedictine, Carmelite, Dominican, and Jesuit traditions. Through a series of engaging talks, attendees will be invited to reflect on how these charisms can inspire and support lay people in their spiritual lives today.

The event is free of charge, with donations gratefully received. Tea and coffee will be available throughout the day, and participants are encouraged to bring a packed lunch.

Venue: Redemptorist Monastery, 8 Clapham Park Road, Clapham, London, SW4 7AP (Nearest tube station: Clapham Common)

Booking: Places can be reserved via Eventbrite

This consultation day offers a unique opportunity to deepen one’s understanding of lay spirituality through the lens of time-honoured Catholic traditions.

The Briery Preached Retreats & 2025 Programme

The Briery is a place of spiritual renewal, where those who come can find God in an atmosphere of love, prayer, healing and peace. Where all are valued, encouraged to discover their gifts and challenged to use them in the service of others. Where the poor, the suffering and the lonely can experience the power of the cross and Resurrection in Christ.

Explore what’s on offer by reviewing the 2025 Programme or visiting their website.