LANCASHIRE
UPHOLLAND
With so much work on hand it became evident that more vocations were needed and the idea for a seminary to train young men was discussed with Fr. Carlo Pensa. Fr. Pensa was Director General from 1951 - 1963. He followed Fr. Carlo Sterpi as Director General who himself succeeded Don Orione.
Fr. Pensa.
A small farmhouse, Walthew Green just outside the village of Upholland came on the market in 1960 and Fr. Bidone went to inspect it. It was very neglected but it was bought and Fr. Joseph Tirello with four students moved into the farm in the winter of 1962-63. He was helped at this time by Fr. Manfredo Marchione who came over in 1952 and stayed until 1962.
With Fr. Tirello they began to convert a near-derelict stable into a chapel and carry out urgent repairs to the farmhouse which was to shelter them whilst a larger building was built to accommodate students and this was opened on 16th July 1960, the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
Walthew Green Farmhouse
The small farmhouse is now a Retreat Centre.
The seminary (now Cardinal Heenan House) continued to receive postulants for the next ten years. It is now a flourishing home for elderly people.
Cardinal Heenan House
A key figure in the early days,
Fr. Angelo Quadrini, had been responsible for the students following Fr.
Joseph Tirello. Later Fr. Malcolm Dyer received postulants
each year to commence their training.
Regional Superior from 1981-1988
Another original plan was for “Sunshine Village” – a small compact row of bungalows with shop, post office and recreational centre. The whole project was not completed but the bungalows near to Cardinal Heenan House are all occupied with people who enjoy living in such beautiful surroundings with extensive views over the countryside.
St. Gabriel's Bungalows
SPRINGFIELD HOUSE – WIGAN.
In 1988 in conjunction with Wigan Metropolitan in Lancashire The Sons of Divine Providence leased Springfield House which was run as a home for elderly people. This closed in 1994 when The Sons decided not to renew the lease and the residents were found alternative accommodation and the building sold.