The children, staff and wider community of St Paul and St Timothy’s Catholic Infant School extend their sincere gratitude to Fr John Southworth as he retires from St Paul’s Church, West Derby, this summer. 

Throughout his ministry, Fr John has been a constant source of encouragement, kindness and support to the school and the wider parish community. His generosity has helped bring to life an exciting new project that will benefit both the pupils and local families. 

As part of its commitment to Catholic Social Teaching, pupils have been learning about the importance of caring for God’s creation and supporting those in need. Inspired by these values, they decided to grow their own fruit and vegetables to donate to local food banks. 

The school asked Fr John if there might be space available on the parish allotments, to which he very kindly offered the school several raised beds. Thanks to his generosity, the pupils at St Paul and St Timothy’s are now looking forward to planting, nurturing and harvesting their own produce. 

This wonderful opportunity will not only teach valuable gardening skills but will also help pupils understand the joy of serving others through acts of kindness and generosity. It is a lasting legacy that reflects Fr John’s own dedication to faith, service and community. 

As Fr John begins his well-earned retirement, St Paul and St Timothy’s thanks him for his years of faithful ministry, his unwavering support for the school and the countless ways he has enriched the lives of those around him.