Catena means 'chain'

What is the Catenian Association

The Catenian Association is an international body of Catholic laymen who meet at least once a month in local units called Circles, to enjoy each other's company and thereby strengthen their family life and faith through friendship. It is open to practising Catholic laymen from the age of 21 years.

The Association is non-political and is not a Catholic Action organisation, but it is an organisation for active Catholics. Many members of the Association are involved with the Church, particularly as Readers and Eucharistic Ministers and also as governors of Catholic schools, or involved with Diocesan education committees. Members are drawn from a wide range of experience. Many have a business or professional background, some are self employed, while others have a teaching, health service or other public service background. Many have no formal qualifications.

The Catenians raise funds to support a wide span of charities and interests, at a local, national or International level raising in excess of £250.000 each year. The Association has two charities: "The Benevolent and Children's Fund" for its own members and their dependents, and the Bursary Fund which helps young Catholics aged 16 to 24 who are to take part in community-based projects at home and abroad, which have a clear benefit for others as well as for the participant. Applicants for grants from the Bursary Fund do not need to have any connection to a member of the Catenian Association. In addition, Presidents of Circles and Provinces usually raise funds for a nominated charity during their term of office.

We offer prayers at our meetings and have Masses for special intentions, for example for our deceased of for vocations. We support vocations financially as well.

Our many Social Events involve our familes and build long lasting friendships. Widows and their families are also actively invloved.