Oxford Catenians’ Recruitment Initiative.

Two years ago, the Oxford Catenians realized that the age profile of the Circle was extremely high, making it imperative to recruit new members. They formed a “Way Forward” group with the intention of determining what the future should look like and how to attract new men to the Circle.

One of the key decisions was to take the Circle out to the parishes, achieved through what are called “Away Days.” Once a quarter, representatives of the Circle attend Mass in one of the 19 parishes in their area and host coffee after Mass.

In the Catenian year ending in March, the Circle recruited five new brothers and one transferee.

This is not the end of the process; the Away Days are still scheduled through the next year.

Our picture shows five of the new recruits plus Circle officers. From left to right in the front row: Circle President Bro Don Griffin, Bros Luis Prado, Harry Brooks, Andy Jones, GBNC Vice President Bro Gerry McCormack. In the back row: Provincial Councillor Bro George Steele, Bros Henry Curtis and Paul McKenna. Absent from the picture is Bro Max Muncaster, who transferred from Macclesfield Circle.