FR DAVID WRITES
Today is the Fourth Sunday of Lent, also known as 'Laetare Sunday'. Today is one of two days when we use rose coloured vestments - a lighter shade of the darker purple which signifies our joy and hope. Right now, there is much to hope for and much to pray for. This has been the saddest Lent I have ever known, but even now we see much goodness and kindness all around us, it can really lift our spirits. Today is also Mothering Sunday. Although the people cannot come to church today, we still want to extend our greetings and love to all the mums of the parish, as we know you all do the same. Please try to say some prayers at home, follow our Masses on the website at 10am if you can. We miss you all - we send you our prayers and love.
PASTORAL LETTER
Today there is a pastoral letter from the Cardinal concerning our current situation and its effect on our churches, parishes, schools and families. You can read it at the diocesan website: rcdow.org.uk
MASS EVERY DAY
The priests will celebrate Mass here every day, 7 days a week, at 10am for your intentions and the good of the whole Church, plus also a Mass on Saturdays at 6.30pm for the phone line. Unfortunately, during Mass the church will be closed. Our church will be open for private prayer every day from approx. 10.30am-6pm.
NO ONE IS ALONE IN PRAYER
We hope you're able to join us in prayer from your home. Obviously, some people can watch Mass on the internet, but even if you cannot do this, no prayer is made in isolation. Every prayer is made in communion with the church. We have placed some leaflets, 'No one is alone in prayer' at the back of church.
PARISH OFFICE
At the time of writing our office is manned between 10am-12 noon. However, you are asked to call or email and not arrive in person. Like the government, the diocese are encouraging us allow our staff to work remotely from home. If our arrangements change, we will let you know.
FUNERALS THIS WEEK
Sadly, the funerals which we planned to be celebrated in church this coming week must now take place at the crematorium chapel at 11am. We thank the families of all involved for their patience and understanding. Unfortunately for us, it means we cannot watch the live stream of the full funeral now. Nevertheless, Fr Andrew and I will still celebrate a Mass for each of the deceased in the church at 10am, before the funeral: on Monday for Doris D'Souza, on Tuesday for Protasio Pinagli, and on Wednesday for Libby Biberian. Please keep them, and their families, in your prayers. By decision of the bishops of England and Wales, in consultation with statutory authorities, all funerals for the duration of the crisis, will take place either at the crematorium or the graveside.
GIVE BY TEXT
Some parishioners are concerned about how to give towards the life of the parish. We have a special scheme where you can text £5 to our parish by a simple message. If you type a text message saying: Parish NEWSO to this number 70800 you can give £5 with every text. You can also post planned giving envelopes through the letter box but only if you're fit and healthy enough to come outdoors. Thanks for your understanding and generosity.
WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE CATHOLIC FAITH?
There will be no further talks by Fr. Andrew until further notice.
CONFIRMATION & FIRST HOLY COMMUNION
Please note that both these sacraments have been cancelled until further notice. We will keep you informed as events develop.
AID TO THE CHURCH IN NEED
Thank you for your generosity in supporting Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) over the years. If you would like to make a donation to the cause please visit www.acnuk.org and follow the link “Donate”
ONLINE CHILDREN’S LITURGY
If you are looking for a way to engage your children in the gospel from home, join CAFOD for our virtual children's liturgy of the word at 10 am GMT this Sunday. Register now to take part here. https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5095942131288155403
ACT OF SPIRITUAL COMMUNION
My Jesus, I believe that you are present in the Most Holy Sacrament. I love you above all things, and I desire to receive you into my soul.
Since I cannot at this moment receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from your loving presence. Amen.'