​Manresa House, Birmingham played host to the presentation of the CAMPION MEDAL to Martina and Colette in recognition of their service to the Society of Jesus, especially to the Novitiate community in Birmingham.  Colette and Martina were formerly members of the Congregation of the Sisters of Mercy, and remain closely connected with us.
 For twenty two and a half years Martina and Colette planned, shopped for and prepared Sunday lunch for the resident community, the novices and the many visiting priests, family members and friends.  Annually, Vow Day, St Ignatius’ Feastday, Christmas and Easter, and other celebrations were occasions when Colette & Martina produced meals that would satisfy the most challenging palate.  Throughout the Society these celebrations are legendary.
The Campion Medal is presented by the Society to individuals who have made a significant contribution to the promotion of the Jesuit ideal.  The contribution which Martina and Colette have made to the formation of generations of novices influenced the decision to make the award. 
The medal is cast at the Royal Mint, and is awarded only rarely

​A special Mass was celebrated, and the presentation of the medal was made by Father Damian Howard, SJ, Provincial of the British Province in the presence of Father Leonard Moloney, SJ, Provincial of the Irish Province, and Father Johan Verschueren, SJ, Provincial of Flanders, together with members of the Jesuit community past and present.
Music was provided by the Novices, assisted by some of the resident community. 

​There followed a beautiful buffet, and then poetry recitations, songs, and reminiscences.  Throughout, the whole-hearted affection and respect of everyone present for Martina and Colette was apparent. Jesuits travelled from England and Scotland to be present at the occasion, and enjoyed telling their recollections of bygone celebrations.
 
Now after more than twenty years of shopping, preparing and serving meals, Martina and Colette are guests at the weekly Sunday meal. 
 
In 2019 a book of their recipes will be published by Messenger Publications.  All the recipes have been tried and tested by themselves over the years.  Following painstaking research by Father Dries Van Den Akker, SJ,  each recipe has been illustrated and linked to a Scripture event, or a saint or angel.  The illustrations and background information will make this recipe book unique and great fun.  Graces and other prayers were provided by Father Simon Bishop, SJ (Superior and Novice Master at Manresa House).

 A  Day of Prayer for Vocations will take place at St. Mary's Convent on Monday 28th January from 11am -3pm.  Midday  Prayer at 12 noon.  Concluding prayer at 2.45pm.
​All Welcome.