From April 2024 the Bulletin pieces cover both Batley St Mary of the Angels and Birstall St Patrick’s history pieces, reflecting the joint administrative nature of the two parishes.
6/7 April 2024
On 6 and 7 April 1926 (Tuesday and Wednesday) Easter socials were held in the St Patrick’s Church Hall. Rev. Father Peter Russell was in charge, and under his direction the Young People’s Dramatic Society performed the humorous Irish play “The Eloquent Dempsey.” Principal roles were played by Miss D. Maguire, Mrs. A. Morley, Messrs. T. Higgins, J. Lavin, W. Gallagher, M. Judge and T. O’Brien.
13/14 April 2024
On Wednesday 13 April 1892 it was announced that parish priest Charles Gordon had been elected by ratepayers in the Township of Batley as one of their four representatives to serve on the Dewsbury Union Board of Guardians for the Poor. He received 1,642 votes, coming second to woollen manufacturer John Blackburn. In his letter of thanks, he said it had been his duty and privilege to labour and toil amongst the poor of the district for 17 years, and it would be his pleasure to look into and protect the interests of the poor. He also said he believed this was the first time a Catholic had been returned to the Board of Guardians to safeguard the interests of the 6,000 Catholics who lived within the Dewsbury Union area.
20/21 April 2024
In April 1932 St Patrick’s Church appointed a new organist, Martin McLoughlin. He succeeded Walter Hughes, who had undertaken the role for the previous 12 years, before moving to Hebden Bridge.
27/28 April 2024
In April 1877 St Mary’s school received what was described as “very favourable” Government report. In both the Infant and Mixed School reading was well taught. The infants were in very nice order and the intelligence of these children was “satisfactory.” The Mixed School was described as in very good order. Its examination results were highly creditably. It went on to say: “Considering the class of children, and the difficulty of securing regular attendance, the condition of this school is remarkably good, and reflects very great credit on the managers and teachers.”
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