Pilgrimage Retreat

BIRMINGHAM

28^th June - 2^nd July 2010

DIARY

DAY ONE

I travel on the daily National Express coach from Scarborough via Filey, Bridlington, Hull, Doncaster, Nottingham – 6 hours including half hour break at Woodhall Services.

Local Birmingham bus service 16 to Handsworth to St Mary’s Convent (Mercy Sisters).

I have my own private flat in the convent with direct access to garden. Breakfast alone, lunch and supper with the 4 Sisters – Helen, Mary, Kathleen and Joan, plus Zion the Secretary, and Jenny the Archivist.

The community was founded by Catherine McAuley who died at Baggott Street, Dublin on 11^th November 1841. On her death bed she was concerned about the long distances some sisters had travelled to be with her and said “Be sure you have a good cup of tea for them when I am gone”. Hence napkins at the convent are decorated with teapots and tea cups. Catherine is being promoted for sainthood and may already be regarded as ‘Venerable’.

The convent architect was Pugin.

Cup of tea at 4.00 p.m. Evening Prayers 5.30 p.m. Supper 6.00 p.m.