Update from Fr Paul
Fr Paul • April 24, 2020
We are still in lockdown...
I am very fortunate in being able to use the church for private prayer and to say Mass, which I do every day remembering you all and asking God to keep us safe & well. As time goes by, I am very much aware in myself that the restrictions are becoming irksome and irritating and I have no children to keep entertained and busy! The government has asked us to cooperate with its plan to deal with this crisis and as responsible citizens we should. A few extra prayers might help to pass the time!
This programme will commence in the New Year. Application forms are available at the back of the church. Please ensure a copy of the child’s baptismal certificate is attached to the form if they were not baptised in this parish. Completed forms should be posted through the presbytery letterbox. Any child in Year 3 and above who lives in the parish and attends Mass is eligible for First Holy Communion. Those who live outside the parish must obtain the permission of their own parish priest before applying.
The preparation for this Sacrament will take place on Tuesdays October 21st and November 4th, 11th and 18th from 7pm – 8.30pm in the Meeting Room at the back of the church. The Confirmation rehearsal will be on Saturday, 22nd November at 10am in the church. The Confirmation Mass will be on Sunday, 23rd November, the Feast of Christ the King and National Youth Sunday at 11am. Please make a note of these dates now. Applications are now closed.
Youth Gather is a weekend of faith, fun and friendship – with speakers, workshops, prayer and outdoor activities, meeting friends old and new, and all while sharing in and celebrating our Catholic faith. There will be coaches offering transport from around the Diocese included in the cost, as well as all meals, cabin accommodation and activities. This event is for year 9 and above. Apply now at www.bcys.net/events
WE WELCOME this Sunday H E Archbishop Emilio Nappa, Secretary General of the Governorate of the Vatican City State, who will be celebrating the 11 o’clock Mass.
This week there will be the annual collection for Peter’s Pence which helps to defray the personal and charitable expenses of the Holy Father.
This week there will be the annual collection for the Sick & Retired Clergy Fund of the Diocese. Donations can be made in the Second Collection, online via the diocesan website. The fund helps clergy who require assistance in their retirement after years of service and it also helps those who are in ill health at any age.
North Ilford Fellowship of Churches are inviting everyone to Pentecost Songs of Praise on Sunday, 8 th June in Ashurst Drive Baptist Church. There will be refreshments afterwards. I attended the NIFOC committee meeting this afternoon. People were saying how much they enjoyed the World Day of Prayer service at our church.