CAFOD Visit Inspires Renewed Support

Published by Charlie Bohan-Hurst on October 23, 2026

CAFOD staff received a warm welcome from the parish community at St John the Baptist Cathedral during a visit to mark Harvest Fast Day in October.

Chris Gallagher, CAFOD’s representative for East Anglia, and Jo Kitterick, a CAFOD director, spoke at all Masses over the weekend, sharing the story of Tayla, a 12-year-old student in northern Zimbabwe.

Tayla’s school community has benefited from CAFOD funding for a solar-powered pump, which provides clean water for pupils and enables them to grow their own vegetables. This support is made possible through the generosity of CAFOD donors.

A key aim of the visit was to re-establish a CAFOD group within the Cathedral parish. Many parishioners expressed an interest in volunteering, and others who would like to get involved can contact Chris at cgallagher@cafod.org.uk.

The newly established group will organise forthcoming CAFOD events and activities, with hopes of taking part in a Big Lent Walk.

A highlight of the weekend was Jo’s presentation of a Romero Cross and Jubilee icon to Bishop Peter, as a gift of solidarity and thanks for the Cathedral parish’s support. Parishioners responded generously through donations, encouragement and offers to volunteer, providing a promising foundation for the group’s work.

During his time in Norwich, Chris also visited St George’s parish, which has one of the oldest established CAFOD groups in the country, founded in 1984.

The parish community is busy raising funds for a health clinic, which they hope will be operational by the end of the year. The group welcomes support for its fundraising and is always keen to hear from new members and supporters.

The visit was a great success, and CAFOD expressed its gratitude to Norwich’s Catholic community for its kindness, generosity and warm welcome.

As CAFOD prepares to celebrate its 65th anniversary next year, parishes are encouraged to consider organising a special event or activity to mark the occasion. CAFOD would be delighted to hear from communities wishing to take part.