PODCASTS are being used to learn more about the forthcoming Papal visit.

Gloucestershire Catholics are contributing to, and learning from, a new series of podcasts about Cardinal Newman – the man Pope Benedict XVI will beatify when he comes to the United Kingdom this month.

"Now is a time when we are focusing very clearly on the forthcoming historic papal visit," said Clifton Diocese papal visit co-ordinator Father Michael McAndrew, who has been on summer ministry in Cheltenham and Gloucester this month.

"To help people prepare, we've produced three new podcast series about the great Englishman who'll soon be the talk of the nation.

"In the Footsteps of Newman takes listeners to the places where Newman lived, preached, and where he'll beatified by the Holy Father."

The five-part series sees Father Michael join with Gloucester-born Father Christopher Whitehead, who is the Clifton Diocese director of adult education and evangelisation. They visit Birmingham aiming to give listeners an insight into Newman's world.

The series was recorded on location in Birmingham where the Holy Father's historic visit culminates.

"Here in the west of England, Catholic communities, like people throughout our countries, are looking forward to welcoming Pope Benedict," said Father Michael. "He comes to help us all see that faith in God is not a problem in need of a solution, but rather it's a gift to be discovered anew. I hope our podcasts help in preparing people for this iconic visit."