By Fr Stephen Fawcett and Con McHugh

The Coventry and Nuneaton annual Mass for deceased clergy who served in the deanery was held at Corpus Christi on Tuesday 12 November. 

A good congregation and a sanctuary full of priests and deacons united in offering the Mass for those who had offered the Mass so many times for us all. 

At the end of Mass there was a short appeal about the upcoming monthly Charis evenings at Corpus Christi:

“Good evening, Reverend Fathers and dear parishioners,

Today, we find ourselves at a crucial moment. All around us, we see signs that faith in this country is fading. Churches are emptier, especially among the young, and fewer are hearing the call to the priesthood. Many are searching for purpose, looking for meaning, yet they don’t see the Church as a place to find it. But while we recognize these challenges, let us not lose heart. For God is still alive, active, and powerful, and He is calling us to respond.

This is why we’ve created Charis—a new ministry designed to be a beacon of hope and revival for our English-speaking community. Charis will provide a place for people to encounter God through holy Mass, confession, spiritual talks, and adoration. It’s a space for anyone longing for connection, for healing, and for the peace that only God can give. This ministry is a response to our need for renewal, an invitation to everyone to come and see that God is still moving in powerful ways.

But for Charis to succeed, we need the support of each one of you, especially the priests and the deanery. Your guidance, leadership, and presence are vital to making this ministry a true force for change. And we are not alone in this mission. The same Holy Spirit that empowered the early Church is with us today, ready to transform hearts and rekindle faith across our country.

So, I invite each of you to be part of this mission. Our first service will be on Friday 22 November. Join us and experience what Charis is all about. Together, let us build a place where people can encounter the living God, where hearts can be renewed, and where our community can rediscover the joy and purpose of faith.”

Fr Stephen Fawcett, parish priest, said: "There was a truly powerful and inspiring atmosphere throughout the whole Mass, and indeed at the clergy meeting beforehand and during refreshments afterwards - a real sense of being part of something good and holy. Thank you, and may God bless this mission.  Let's play our part in ensuring the next deanery event at Corpus Christi - the first Charis evening, Friday 22 November, 6pm - will be just as powerful and life-giving."

Canon Tom Farrell was the main celebrant and thanked Fr Stephen for hosting the Mass and providing refreshments afterwards.

List of deceased clergy in the Deanery

Explore the Deanery website

Photo Gallery