The city of Norwich recently played host to a momentous occasion, as the local circle of the Catenian Association celebrated its 100th anniversary in style. The festivities took place at the Top of the Terrace, a stunning venue overlooking the pitch at Norwich City Football Club, and brought together over 160 guests from far and wide. The evening was a true celebration of fellowship and thanksgiving, with a diverse range of attendees including clergy, civic leaders, and Catenians from across the country, all gathering to mark this significant milestone. The atmosphere was joyful and convivial, with brothers, wives, families, and friends coming together to share in the occasion.
As the guests assembled, they were treated to a series of dignified and inspiring messages from distinguished figures. The Bishop of East Anglia, Rt Rev Peter Collins, and the Lord Mayor of Norwich, Paul Kendrick, were among the notable attendees, alongside GBNC President Gerry McCormack. Before the loyal toast, Vice President Tony Baker took to the stage to read out a series of congratulatory messages from Catenians around the world. These heartfelt greetings added a touching and personal dimension to the proceedings, and served as a poignant reminder of the global connections and friendships that exist within the Catenian community. Perhaps the most moving messages of all, however, were the papal blessings received from His Holiness Pope Francis and his successor, Pope Leo XIV. This unique occurrence, in which two Popes sent greetings to the same Catenian event, was a truly historic moment that will be cherished by all who were present.
The Norwich Circle of the Catenians has a rich and fascinating history, dating back to its inauguration on 21 May 1925 at the Café Royal in London Street, Norwich. On that first evening, dinner cost a mere seven shillings and sixpence, and the 21 founder members included the notable figure of Louis Marchesi, who later went on to establish the Round Table movement. In the early years, the Circle’s meetings were held monthly at Mortimer’s Hotel in St Giles, where supper was priced at two shillings and sixpence, and a levy of one shilling was charged for the first drink. Any surplus funds were used to entertain visitors, reflecting the warm hospitality and community spirit that have always been at the heart of the Catenian Association. As the years passed, the Circle’s meetings evolved and grew, but the core values of faith, friendship, and support for one another and the wider community have remained constant.
Over the past 100 years, the Norwich Circle has welcomed generations of Catholic men who share a deep commitment to these values. The Circle has provided a supportive and inclusive environment in which members can come together, share experiences, and support one another through the ups and downs of life. The centenary dinner was a chance to look back on this remarkable history, and to give thanks for the countless friendships, memories, and experiences that have been forged over the years. With messages from the Pope, the King, and fellow Catenians from around the world, the evening was a truly unforgettable occasion that will be etched in the memories of all who attended. As the guests looked to the future, they did so with a sense of hope, optimism, and renewal, knowing that the Norwich Circle of the Catenian Association remains a vibrant and dynamic community that will continue to thrive and flourish in the years to come.
The Catenian Association is a unique and special organization, one that has brought countless benefits and joys to its members over the years. At its heart is a deep commitment to faith, friendship, and community, and a profound sense of solidarity and support that transcends geographical boundaries and cultural differences. The Norwich Circle is just one example of the many thriving Catenian communities that exist around the world, each with its own distinct character and personality. As the Association looks to the future, it does so with a sense of confidence and purpose, knowing that its values and principles remain as relevant and important today as they were 100 years ago. The centenary celebration in Norwich was a testament to the enduring power of these values, and a reminder that the Catenian Association remains a vibrant and dynamic force for good in the world.
As the evening drew to a close, the guests departed with full hearts and happy memories, each carrying with them a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the Catenian Association and all that it represents. The centenary celebration was a truly special occasion, one that will be remembered for years to come as a joyful and uplifting tribute to the power of faith, friendship, and community. As the Norwich Circle of the Catenian Association looks to the future, it does so with a sense of hope and optimism, knowing that its values and principles will continue to inspire and guide generations of Catholic men to come. The Association’s motto, “Friendship and Fun in Faith,” remains a constant reminder of the unique bond that exists between its members, and the countless joys and benefits that flow from this special relationship. As the Catenian community continues to grow and flourish, it remains a beacon of hope and inspiration, a shining example of the transformative power of faith, friendship, and community in action.
