2009 was another wonderful year for Father Hudson’s Society’s Good Shepherd Masses. 133 schools were part of this years celebrations as they attended one of the seven Masses, which took place throughout the Diocese. Over 3,000 people were part of these joyous and uplifting occasions. It was wonderful to see so many children joined together in worship.

Plans are well in hand for a programme of special events this year as Brushstrokes celebrates 10 years of helping the hidden poor in Smethwick.

At the same time they are launching an Appeal for help as their current funding for staff runs out at a time when it is proving extremely difficult to replace it. As they look back in celebration of 10 successful years they look ahead with real concerns about funding. It is inconceivable that their valuable work could be affected because of funding for all staff posts running out this year.