FR DAVID WRITES
In the past few days the builders have been installing the new device to support the statue of the Risen Christ. The scaffolding will soon be gone. The new spotlights are on the sanctuary walls. The stone for the new tabernacle pedestal and steps has proved difficult to source, ship and cut in the timeframe. This means there will be a temporary timber pedestal and steps installed in the meantime, including when the Cardinal will be here. Please rest assured that the final product will eventually be a handsome stone gradine at the back of the sanctuary, and not just wood! There are still some more final touches to go, plus the concrete floor at the back of church which still needs repainting. Thank you all.
FR JEROME
Congratulations to Fr Jerome who has been appointed as the national coordinator for justice and peace in the British Province of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit. Unfortunately for us, this means he will be leaving the parish at the end of August to begin his new ministry. More news to come and, of course, about who will be joining us. Meanwhile, we give our best wishes, our prayers and thanks to Fr Jerome.
CARDINAL’S CENTENARY VISIT
Cardinal Nichols will celebrate a special centenary Mass here on Friday 16 June, 7pm, the solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, followed by a reception. This will be a very special occasion for us and a great celebration to mark the parish centenary.
NINO DI FONZO RIP
The funeral will take place on Thursday 14th June at 10am. May he rest in peace.
FAIRTRADE
The Fairtrade stall will be open next weekend after all Masses in the Parish Hall.
SCHOOL FORMS
Any more school forms to be signed (especially for St Michael’s) can be left at the parish office and then collected during office hours. Fr David has signed a number of forms already - please come to collect them when the office is open. Thank you.
CHURCH CLEANERS
We are most grateful to those parishioners who, during the renovations, have come in to help clean the church on Fridays before the weekends. Normally, the usual cleaning day is Monday mornings which we hope to return to. Sadly, our coordinator Maureen Laverack died recently. Once the renovations are completed shortly, we will look to restore the normal church cleaning routine. Father David asks whether a big team of our church cleaners will be available on the morning of Wednesday 14 June to give the church and surrounding areas a thorough clean after the works and in preparation for the Cardinal’s visit. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be laid on for all volunteers! Please speak to Fr David if you can help.
NEXT SUNDAY: CORPUS CHRISTI
Next Sunday is the solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, known as Corpus Christi.
CELEBRATING CORPUS CHRISTI IN CENTRAL LONDON
The Diocesan Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament, Corpus Christi, Covent Garden, will be hosting a Eucharistic Octave from 3-11 June. This has been organised by several London parishes to celebrate our Eucharistic Lord in the lead up to the Solemnity of Corpus Christi. Full details can be found at catholiclondon.org The Octave will conclude with the Annual Corpus Christi Procession through central London. The processions departs from Warwick Street at 3pm on Sunday 11 June.
CAFOD
Called to action by our faith. You are invited to CAFOD’s International Office on Saturday 10 June for a short time exploring our faith, why we campaign and how you can help. The morning will include guest speakers and a chance for discussion in workshops to explore activities such as Live Simply, our unfair food system and Liturgy resources. 10.30-1pm at CAFOD’s Office in Lambeth North SE1. For further information contact Tony This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or booking please see https://cafod.org.uk/news/events .
CAFOD ‘THE ORATORY’ FILM
8th June, 7pm: Join CAFOD for an online screening of the film 'The Oratory' - the story of an African American Catholic priest inspired by the life of Don Bosco who ends up in Lagos, Nigeria working with street children. Followed by an opportunity to meet the director, Obi Emelonye.