Patrick’s Place
Patrick Doyle is a respected lay Dominican and long-standing parishioner of St Charles Borromeo in Hull. He served as a City Councillor from 1972 to 2003 and was Leader of Hull City Council from 1979 to 2001. In recognition of his distinguished civic service, he was granted the Freedom of the City of Kingston upon Hull in November 2022.
In the Catholic community, Patrick has been deeply involved in parish life as a reader, Eucharistic minister, catechist, SVP member, parish council member, and organiser of parish outreach activities. He has also served as Provincial President of the Lay Dominicans and held governance roles in local education and charity organisations.
For his sustained service to Church and society, Patrick was honoured with the Knighthood of the Order of St Gregory the Great, a papal award conferred by the Vatican for outstanding lay contribution to the Church’s mission.
Patrick’s Place is a regular contribution to the St Charles Borromeo website, offering thoughtful reflections on faith and the Church.
Patrick’s Book of the Month
For those who enjoy beautiful churches like St Charles, then Fr Lawence Lew OP 's 'Entering Heaven On Earth' is for you. His sub title 'The Signs, Symbols & Saints' explains the contents. Fr Lew's text is intended to lead readers into reflection and prayer, The illustrations are drawn from churches and shrines all over the world. It was published in 2025 by the Catholic Truth Society, as a substantial book not a pamphlet.
Title: Entering Heaven On Earth: The Signs, Symbols, and Saints of Catholic Churches
Author: Fr Lawrence Lew OP
Publisher: Catholic Truth Society, London
Publication date: April 2025
Paperback, 272 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1784698348
This richly illustrated book helps readers decode the meaning of liturgical art and sacred space, bringing greater appreciation of the purpose and symbolism found in Catholic worship environment.
Saints
How many representations of St Patrick can you find in St Charles? The Irish patron is significant as on its closure, the former St Patrick's parish was incorporated into St Charles. The former church still stands in Spring Street, but the old parish school in Mill St has been demolished. Two churches within the city centre indicates the size of the Catholic community in the past. Where have they all gone?