Written by It is with great sadness that we mark the passing of Angela Perkins, whose contribution to the National Board of Catholic Women was both substantial and enduring.
Angela served as Development Officer for the NBCW for around fifteen years, bringing enormous practical energy to the organisation during a formative period in its history. She first joined the Board as the representative of the Catholic Marriage Advisory Council, now known as Marriage Care, and quickly became a valued member.
Angela played a pivotal role in the important review of the NBCW which led to the introduction of Diocesan Links, strengthening connections between the Board and women across dioceses in England and Wales. This was a significant development that helped broaden the reach and representative nature of the organisation.
She also made an important contribution to Catholic women’s theological reflection and dialogue through publishing. Alongside Verena Wright, Angela edited Healing Priesthood, a collection of essays by women which offered reflections on ministry and Church life. She was also closely involved in the publication of Do Not Be Afraid, the outcome of a remarkable consultation involving more than 7,000 Catholic women. This project was undertaken in response to a request from Cardinal Basil Hume to gather women’s reflections in relation to Christifideles Laici.
Supported by a grant from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, Angela was employed as part-time Development Officer, a role in which she brought together administration, communication, and relationship-building with characteristic dedication. During this time she organised conferences, published the NBCW newspaper Catholic Omnibus, and established the Joint Dialogue Group, through which representatives of the NBCW met regularly with representatives of the Bishops’ Conference. This initiative created an important and constructive channel of communication between Catholic women and the hierarchy.
Angela’s work was marked by a deep belief in the importance of women’s voices being heard within the Church. She helped create structures and conversations that have had a lasting impact long beyond her formal time with the Board.
Angela stepped down from the Board when the funding grant came to an end, but her legacy within the NBCW remains significant. Her years of service helped shape the organisation into what it is today.
We remember Angela and offer our prayers for her family, friends, and all who knew and worked alongside her. May perpetual light shine upon her, and may she rest in peace.
