This Holy Lenten season, we are looking forward to welcoming you here for a series of four different talks on the topic of: “What does it truly mean to be Catholic?”
Please find details of these below. All the Lenten Talks will take place in the Cathedral Parish Hall, commencing at 7.30pm.
Talk 1: Wednesday 25th February 2026. 
Abbot Hugh Allan, O Praem.
“I Believe…” Living and Proclaiming the Catholic Faith.
Abbot Hugh is the Superior of the Norbertine Community in Peckham. He is also Director of Mission for the Bishops Conference Of England & Wales & the Vicar for Religious in the Archdiocese of Southwark. Until recently he was Apostolic Administrator of the Falkland Islands, and from 20028 to 2022 was Parish Priest of Chelmsford Parish in the Diocese of Brentwood.
Talk 2: Wednesday 4th March 2026.
Rev Msgr Kevin W Hale, VG.
“Being Catholic and the call to holiness as seen in the lives of some recently canonised saints.”
Native of Diocese of Brentwood. Ordained a Priest in 1984, serving in various parishes throughout the diocese. The new Bishop appointed him Vicar General in 2014. Member of the Chapter of Canons in 2023 he was appointed a Chaplain to His Holiness Pope Francis.

Talk 3: Wednesday 11th March 2026.
Mr Mauro Iannicelli.
“Prayer as the Foundation of our Catholic Life.”
Born in Rome Italy, came to London in 2006. Worked for 13 Years as a software developer, including at JP Morgan. Spent 4 years in Seminary. Married in 2019. Mauro has a deep passion for teaching the Catholic Faith & Evangelisation.
Talk 4: Wednesday 18th March.
Rev Msgr John Armitage.
“The uniqueness of Catholicism for British Society.”
Fr John is a Priest of the Brentwood Diocese. Ordained in 1979, he has served in many parishes throughout the diocese. Was Vicar General To Bishop Thomas McMahon. He is a well know Retreat Giver and speaker throughout the country.
Please do avail yourselves of the opportunity to hear these gifted speakers. What better way to truly enter the Holy Lenten Season!
Download the full details here.