FR DAVID WRITES
Today is the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time. In these days after Christmas and the Epiphany, the light of the Christmas message continues to shine brightly through the liturgy. We continue to hear about the revelation of who Jesus really is and about what God has marvellously accomplished in the mystery of Christ. St John declares, ‘Behold the Lamb of God!’ Jesus gives the invitation to his followers, ‘Come and see!’ Like the shepherds and the Magi, we too are invited to come and see the Christ, and to behold his glory as the Word-Made-Flesh and the Lamb of God. On Friday 2 February, the Church will celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord (Candlemas) which marks the final end of the Christmas mystery in terms of the liturgy. May God bless you all the week ahead.
WESTMINSTER YEAR BOOK & MASS TIMES
Some time ago, representations were made to me in the parish here, asking for the evening Mass on holy days and other days (like Ash Wednesday) to be moved from 7.30pm forward to 7pm. This was because the car park becomes very busy and difficult at these times as Cubs, Beavers and Scouts are also arriving and departing. This seemed like a sensible solution to me. Accordingly, I asked the editors of the Year Book to make the change in the new edition. Unfortunately, and despite receiving assurances, this change failed to make it into print. There are not many holy days this year which occur during the week, but one such day is Ash Wednesday (14 February). So please note that, despite what is printed in the official book, the Masses on Ash Wednesday and other holy days will now be 8am, 10am and 7pm (not 7.30pm). Thank you in advance for your attention. (This change will not affect Holy Thursday which is a separate issue.)
BAPTISM SIGN-UP
The next Baptism sign up will take place on Monday 5th February at 6.30pm in the Parish Centre.
FIRST HOLY COMMUNION
Today at the 11.15 Mass, we welcome the children and their parents and families who just beginning the journey of preparation for First Confession and First Holy Communion. Please keep them in your prayers in the coming weeks and months.
RCIA (JOURNEY IN FAITH)
The first session will take place on Monday 15th January at 7.30pm.
MARY GALLAGHER RIP
The Funeral will take place on Thursday 18th January at 10am. May she rest in peace.
MARGARET CRONIN RIP
The Funeral will take place on Friday 26th January at 10am. May she rest in peace.
MICHAEL HOSFORD RIP
The Funeral will take place on Monday 5th February at 12pm. May he rest in peace.
FAIR TRADE
The first Fair Trade sale of 2024 is after masses next weekend, 20th/21st January.
PLANNED GIVING ENVELOPES
The new envelopes will be distributed in April. If you do not require your planned giving envelopes anymore or have a change in circumstances, eg, you have moved house, or are no longer paying tax, please let the Parish Office know. If you would like to join the planned giving scheme please collect an application form from the church porch. You can use these forms to set up a Standing Order or join the Gift Aid scheme.
Standing Order is the best way to give to the parish as it reduces cash handling on the premises. Thank you to everyone for your continuing generosity.
MASTER, WHERE DO YOU LIVE? ‘COME AND SEE!’
When Andrew and the other disciple heard John speak of Jesus their world changed forever. They went to Jesus, and he greeted them, they asked, “Where do you live” and then Jesus called to them, “Come and See”. When Jesus calls us our first reaction is to turn away. But he is persistent, and He keeps calling until we realise it is His voice we hear, and we answer, “Speak Lord, your servant is listening”. It is never a random call, the Lord knows us, He knows our name and He has a task for each of us and we can never be at peace until we answer His call and turn to do His will. (David Frank)