Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
What is the Catenian Association?
The Catenian Association is an international association of Catholic men who meet locally, usually once a month at local branches (or Circles), and who share common values. Our friendship enhances our family life, strengthens our faith and sustains us in difficult times. Members are drawn from all walks of life, and, consequently, have a vast range of differing talents and experience. Membership is open to Catholic laymen over the age of eighteen. Members (brothers) of the Catenian Association meet as Circles operating close to where they live. Maidenhead Catenian Circle is one such Circle.
Who can join?
Any man over the age of 18 who is a practising Roman Catholic. Christian men married to Catholic wives may be considered for associate membership of Maidenhead Circle.
Why no women members?
The Catenian Association, a Catholic fellowship, gives men an opportunity to develop friendships in a faith setting which they might not otherwise do. In this single gender context, it can be compared respectively to the Women’s Institute (WI) for women or The Shed for men. The Catenian Association recognizes the importance of family involvement and aside from the monthly meetings, most social and other activities are attended by women.
Where and when do you meet?
We meet at theThe Parish Centre, 36 Cookham Road, Maidenhead SL6 7EGon the fourth Wednesday of every month (other than December). In addition, we meet at various locations for social and other events.
Can I just turn up for a Meeting?
As a prospective member, or someone interested in learning more about the Catenians, we would ask you to contact us in advance of a meeting.
What happens at the meetings?
We hold a Circle meeting every month, during which we pray together, and conduct Circle business. We follow a standard format for our meetings, as is the case of other Catenian Circles. After the meeting, we relax and dine together and enjoy each other’s company. We encourage brothers from other Circles to attend our meetings, and we often have entertainment or speeches after dinner.
How formal is it?
The dress code for our meetings is usually jacket with optional tie. We say Grace before and after our meal.
Does the Circle do fund-raising activities?
We are not primarily a fund raising organisation but we do fund-raising activities . The Circle President chooses a charity to support during his term of office.
Would I have to join immediately?
No. Sometimes, new members take a while to find their feet. You are welcome to come along to our Circle meetings as a guest until you make your decision. There would be no dinner charge for your first meeting but thereafter you would pay the cost, currently £26 for dinner.