St Ann's Parish Blog, Banstead

New lamps for old . . . .

2012-01-31T11:26:00.004Z

No, not a cry from the lamp-seller in the well-known pantomime, Ali Baba but the result of the completion of our new lighting project here at St Ann's!

For quite some time we have been hoping to replace our old, expensive to run church lighting with a new and improved scheme which would not only enhance the look of our church and be appropriate to the Masses and other liturgies celebrated here but which would also be energy efficient.

I'm pleased to be able to say that this objective has now been met and, thanks to the efficient and professional services of CES Lighting, our new lighting scheme is now up and running.

Greetings from Ireland on the Solemnity of the Epiphany . . .

2012-01-06T11:06:00.009Z

My little break at home is coming to an end and I thought that I would drop by and let you know that I offered Mass for all in our parish today.

Here in Ireland, the Bishops have decided not to move the Solemnity of the Epiphany to the Sunday which means that the Mass I offered for your intentions was the Mass of the Solemnity.

I'm sure Fr McCarthy has been looking after you all very well in my absence and I look forward to being back with you all again very soon.

O God, who on this day

revealed your Only Begotten Son

to the nations

by the guidance of a star,

grant in your mercy

that we, who know you already

by faith,

may be brought to behold

the beauty of your sublime glory.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ,

your Son,

who lives and reigns with you

in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

(Collect from the Solemnity of the Epiphany)

Thou art a priest for ever . . .

2011-12-28T17:51:00.006Z

As promised, here is a photo of the newly refurbished grave of Fr Edward Dockery, the first Priest-in-Charge of St Ann's parish.

I do think it is a great improvement on the rather neglected-looking grave I visited a few weeks ago. I hope you agree.

Please do pop into All Saints' Churchyard next time you're in Banstead village and pay your respects to Fr Dockery and say a prayer for him. May he rest in peace.

The Word became flesh . . .

2011-12-24T23:59:00.006Z

‘The Word became flesh.’

God became man; He came to live among us. God is never far away, He is ‘Emmanuel’, God-with-us. God is not a stranger, He has a face and this is the face of Jesus.

God is faithful, He does not change. The event of the Incarnation occurred in history but at the same time transcends history. Belief in the God who desired to share our human history continually encourages us in our own commitment to the history, in spite of its contradictions.

May the light of Christmas shine forth afresh this year and may the Infant of Bethlehem bless each of you.

Latin is sooooo hard to learn . . .

2011-12-06T13:57:00.004Z

I was very taken with this post by Mulier Fortis, I thought I'd share it with you.

Quite often one hears the comment when discussing Mass settings, choice of music etc. 'Oh, but Latin is so difficult for our young people to learn.' 'They aren't used to it'. 'They don't learn it in school any more' and so on . . .

Well, here is a delightful clip of a very gifted young man, just four years old, singing the Salve Regina and obviously enjoying it too.

See and hear for yourself here. Well done Edward! We look forward to your rendition of the Alma Redemptoris Mater very soon!

More Confessions . . .

2011-12-05T21:16:00.008Z

Having a had a super week in our parish primary school, I have today been privileged to assist with Confessions at The John Fisher School in Purley.

I received a very warm welcome from the school Chaplain, Fr James Clark and Mr Dan Cooper.

It was lovely to see so many of St Ann's boys in the school grounds as I walked through to the school chapel .

In past years, The John Fisher School has helped sow and nurture the seeds of many vocations, including several priests from our own diocese.

Let us all continue to pray for vocations.

St John Vianney, pray for us . . .

Let the Little Children Come to Me . . .

2011-12-02T10:54:00.008Z

'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them,

for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'

(Matthew 19:14)

Hooray! I have this week confessed all the children in Years 4, 5 and 6 in our parish school, and as always, what a delight it has been to do so.

Our children are now ready for Our Lord's coming at Christmas.

For those parishioners whose school days are but a dim and distant memory, (and those in between!) you may like to know that our parish Advent Penitential Service is on Wednesday 7th December at 7.30pm in St Ann's Church. All are welcome, not just our own parishioners.

There will be a short liturgy including an examination of conscience, followed by an opportunity for individual Confession. I will be assisted by several other priests from our Deanery. I hope many of you will follow the excellent example of our children and use this chance to prepare well for the feast of Christmas.

Shhhhhh . . .

2011-11-29T11:40:00.006Z

Shhhhhh . . .

Silence is not only the absence of noise, it is essential in order to listen to God's word. Unless we are able to 'block out' the ever-increasing messages of social communication and mass-media, it is virtually impossible to hear the word of God or indeed reflect on it in a prayerful manner and therefore we are unable to act on it in our daily lives.

Silence is necessary for all of us in church. We need to preach the Gospel in word and action and so we must make room for silence in order to welcome God's word and discern what we are called to do as followers of Christ.

St Joseph is the Patron Saint of silence, foster-father of Jesus and husband of Mary. In the Gospels he does not utter a word. He listens . . . He reflects . . . He acts.

St Joseph welcomed the Word of God into his heart and mind. He welcomed Jesus, God's only Son, the Word made flesh into his family with fatherly care. The silence of St Joseph speaks louder than words.

If we wish to encourage vocations to the priesthood, the religious life, to marriage and the single state, we need to help men and women to find times and places where they can switch off the noise of today and tune in to the silence and peace of God.

'Be still and know that I am God.'

The Advent Wreath . . .

2011-11-25T11:58:00.010Z

The Advent Wreath may be of any size and is made of evergreens. There are four candles, one for each week of Advent; it is traditional that three of the candles are purple and one is rose.

The rose candle is lit on the Third Sunday of Advent since this colour symbolises and anticipates the joy of Christmas which is announced in the first word of the Entrance Antiphon: 'Rejoice' from the Latin 'Gaudete'. The third Sunday is also known as Gaudete Sunday and rose-coloured vestments may be worn.

The Advent Wreath originated in Europe, in what we now call Germany; there was a tradition there among the pagans to light candles on a wreath as the December darkness fell and the days became shorter and colder.

Eventually the Christians evangelised these people and converted them, but the people still held onto the tradition and so the Church 'Christianised' the practice.

Every year in Advent we wait once again in darkness for the Lord's coming; His historical coming in the mystery of Bethlehem; His final coming at the end of time, and in between, His special coming in each and every moment of grace.

The most important part of the wreath is the flame which symbolises Christ, the light of the world and our yearning for the light and warmth of his love which is everlasting, as is symbolised by the evergreen wreath which never loses its 'green-ness'.

It would be great to have a wreath at home and gather as a family each day and light the candle together (not forgetting to extinguish it!!) and pray for a few moments. This will help us to pray as a family which is the most important thing that you can do as a family.

It will also help you to prepare for Christmas in a real Christian way and focus on Christ rather than wrapping paper and long shopping queues. It will help us prepare spiritually for Christmas so that Christmas may be that Holy day it's supposed to be and God wants it to be for us.

Ultimately God wants each of us to be that candle reflecting His light to our world that so much needs to see Him.

The photo at the top of this post shows our new Advent Wreath already for its 'début' on Sunday. If I can obtain a better photo I'll come back and replace this one!

Update: I hope you approve of the 'improved' photo!

Why was Fr wearing white at Mass today . . .?

2011-11-23T21:50:00.004Z

I gather from one of our parishioners that her eagle-eyed young son had commented on the white vestments I was wearing at Mass on Sunday.

First of all, I'm always delighted to hear that our children are taking such an interest in what is happening at Mass and secondly, I'm also always very happy to do my best to answer any queries so do please let me know if your children have posed any similar questions during or after Mass.

So, to the answer . . .

At different times in the Church's year, the priest will wear different coloured vestments to indicate which season it is; for example for most of the year, in what we call 'Ordinary Time', the priest will wear green vestments.

It is not only the priest's vestments that will be green, the tabernacle 'veil' (cover) will also be green and if there is a Deacon present his vestments will also be green.

Here is a simple list which gives the 'liturgical colours' and when they are used:

Green: Ordinary Time

White/Gold: Feasts; Christmas, Easter, Weddings, Baptisms etc.

Red: Feasts of the Lord’s Passion, Blood and Cross; Martyrs;
Holy Spirit (Pentecost, Confirmation)

Purple: Advent, Lent, Penitence, Funerals

White with blue: Feasts of Our Lady

Rose: Gaudete Sunday (3^rd Sunday of Advent) &
Laetare Sunday (4^th Sunday of Lent)

Sunday was the Solemnity of Christ the Universal King. A 'Solemnity' is a very special feast and so white vestments are worn, or sometimes even gold.

Next Sunday is the beginning of Advent which is also the beginning of the Church's year and the colour of the vestments will change again. I hope all our young people will be watching carefully to see which colour it will be!

Fr Edward Dockery . . .

2011-11-18T14:28:00.009Z

I took this photo the other day. I apologise for the quality but I only had my phone with me at the time.

It shows the gravestone of Fr Edward Dockery, the first Parish Priest of St Ann's. Although Mass was being celebrated at St Ann's before Fr Dockery was appointed, there was no presbytery and the parish was served by local priests from Epsom overseen by Canon Christall.

With the building of the presbytery in 1936 came the possibility of a resident priest and in September of that year, Fr Dockery was appointed as the first rector of the parish, taking up residence at the beginning of October.

Fr Dockery died in 1940 as a result of an incendiary bomb whilst travelling in his car. He was just 37 years old. May he rest in peace.

Fr Dockery was buried in the churchyard of All Saints Church (Anglican) Banstead which is where I took this photo.

In your charity, you might like to pay a visit to Fr Dockery's grave and say a prayer for the repose of his soul.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord,

and let perpetual light shine upon him.

May he rest in peace. Amen.

Incidentally, as you can see, the gravestone is looking rather the worse the wear. Therefore we have arranged for the stone to be professionally cleaned so that the site will provide a fitting memorial to our very first Parish Priest.

More on the church building . . .

2011-10-24T14:44:00.011+01:00

Our altar at St Ann's with the empty tabernacle behind. Taken on Holy Saturday just before the Easter Vigil.

Here's a little follow-up to my last post on the Sanctuary lamp:

The Altar

The altar is one of the most important parts of a church and is frequently situated on an elevated area called the sanctuary or ‘holy place’. Of course the sanctuary had a more clearly defined area before the removal of the altar rails. It is in this ‘sacred place’ on the altar where the ‘sacrament of sacraments’ is celebrated, the holy sacrifice of the Mass. The altar is also the table of the Lord to which all are invited, as one family around the family table (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1182).

The Tabernacle

This is also holy because the Lord who is present in the Blessed Sacrament is kept here to foster adoration of the faithful. (CCC 1183)

The Chair

The Chair of the Bishop or Priest should express his office of presiding over the assembly and of directing prayer. (CCC 1184)

The Ambo/Lectern

The dignity of the Word of God requires the church to have a suitable place for announcing this message so that the attention of the people may be easily directed to that place during the Liturgy of the Word.

I hope some readers find these little snippets of information helpful. It's easy to assume that everyone is familiar with the terminology of the Church and understands the meaning of the signs and symbols that some of us take for granted.

The Sanctuary Lamp . . .

2011-10-17T21:29:00.027+01:00

I'm always very happy to try and answer questions raised by parishioners. One of our young parishioner posted a question about the sanctuary lamp on my last post and here is a brief explanation. I hope he or she finds it helpful, and that it might also be of interest to other readers.

In the Old Testament we read in Exodus (27: 20-21) that God commanded that a lamp filled with the purest oil of olives should always burn in the Tabernacle.

“You are to order the sons of Israel to bring you pure olive oil for the light, and to keep a flame burning there perpetually. Aaron and his sons are to set this flame in the Tent of Meeting, outside the veil that is before the Testimony. It must burn there before the Lord from evening to morning perpetually. This is an irrevocable ordinance for their descendants, to be kept by the sons of Israel.”

In Judaism, the sanctuary lamp is known by its Hebrew name, ner tamid (נר תמיד), which means "eternal flame or light".

It is to be found in front of the ark in every Jewish synagogue. It represents the menorah (branched candlestick) of the Temple in Jerusalem as well as the continuously burning fire on the altar of burnt offerings in front of the Temple. It also symbolizes God's eternal presence, and is therefore never extinguished.

The General Instruction of the Roman Missal in the Catholic Church, states (in 316): "In accordance with traditional custom, near the tabernacle a special lamp, fuelled by oil or wax, should be kept alight to indicate and honour the presence of Christ." The sanctuary lamp is placed near the tabernacle as a sign that the Blessed Sacrament is reserved or stored there.

It is a mark of honour to remind the faithful of the presence of Christ, and is a profession of their love and affection. It signifies Christ, as this material light represents He who is the "true light that enlightens all men" (John 1:9).

It is also used by some churches of other denominations to represent the presence of God and may also be found in Eastern Orthodox Churches. Other Christian denominations burn the lamp to show that the light of Christ always burns in a sin-darkened world.

Sanctuary lamps are usually red and may be in the form of a lamp hanging near the tabernacle or, as at St Ann’s, fixed to a bracket on the wall. The red glass container holds a candle that will burn for approximately one week and is never extinguished, the new candle being lit from the used candle it replaces.

Most of this information and more detail can be found on Catholic Encyclopedia and Wikipedia.

Reverence . . .

2011-10-01T12:03:00.007+01:00

Here is a short piece I was prompted to write for next week's newsletter . . .

THE CHURCH

The church is a sacred place where each of us has the privilege of sharing in God’s life and where we shape our lives with God. A ‘sacred place’ means that it has been set aside for the worship of God and for the reception of the sacraments.

The church is not like any other public space; it is not like a hall, a cinema or a theatre. Everything here, that is the art, the architecture, the images communicate one thing – namely, this is a sacred place where God is present.

We belong here, this is our church; laity and clergy alike. The one thing that is required from each of us is RESPECT. That’s why, for example, we are asked to observe an attitude of prayer and silence in God’s house.

The red sanctuary lamp burns day and night indicating that Jesus, God’s only Son, is present in the tabernacle.

Let us renew our love and respect for God’s house and remember, we are in His presence when we come into the church.

It's all going swimmingly here . . . !

2011-09-13T14:13:00.008+01:00

I don't know how it's going where you are, but the New Translation is going very well here.

I think introducing the texts gradually over a few weeks earlier in the year with a short explanation in our parish newsletter has helped, and also introducing the New Translation for the weekday Masses during the week leading up to the 'launch' on Sunday 4th September has been beneficial too.

Of course, we still make mistakes from time time, both in the pews and in the sanctuary but that is only to be expected with anything new. I don't think it's my imagination but I feel that the natural 'slips of the tongue' are slowly becoming fewer.

Personally, I'm now impatient to receive the full Missal and look forward to seeing the New Translation of the texts for Advent. It will be good too to have a 'proper Missal' on the altar rather than the rather flimsy interim version.

Thank you to all in the parish who have helped to make the transition from the 'old translation' of the Missal to the new go so smoothly.

New Translation of the Missal - A Poll . . .

2011-08-26T20:29:00.030+01:00

I came across this excellent poll on the implementation of the New Translation of the Missal and I hope The American Papist doesn't mind that I've taken his questions (slightly modified) to ask readers here how they feel about the imminent introduction of the New Translation.

Originally, I had hoped to set up the poll directly on our Facebook page but couldn't find an easy way of making it anonymous. I think most people prefer anonymity, and as I really would like people to take part, I decided to post it here first and then copy it to Facebook.

What do you think about the New Translation of the Missal?

I'm eagerly awaiting it's implementation.

I'm cautiously optimistic.

I haven't made up my mind yet. I need to wait and see how I feel after a while.

I have some reservations. I'm happy with the current translation.

I'm strongly against it.

Make you own poll at anonvote.com

See Results

If you're having difficulty registering your vote above, you can go directly to the same poll and vote here.

Some of our choir, enjoying a well-earned break . . .

2011-08-19T17:09:00.007+01:00

I recently received this lovely photo of some of our choir members enjoying a meal out in Brighton on their annual outing.

I'm very grateful for all that our choir do throughout the year to enhance our liturgies, not just at Sunday Masses but at funerals, weddings and on other occasions too.

They have a break from their regular duties during August and enjoy a well-earned rest. Even so, they kindly made a 'special appearance' at Mass last week to help us celebrate the Feast of the Assumption in style.

We look forward to welcoming them back in September.

Papal Visit - Young People's Reunion . . .

2011-08-17T13:51:00.005+01:00

Our Diocese is arranging a reunion for all of the young people in our diocese who attended one of the Papal Visit events last year, or who took part in World Youth Day this year.

I know some of our young people did go along to the Papal Visit event in London and Birmingham so I hope you might think about going along.

It will be an evening of

'faith, fun, food, friendship and music'

at St Francis Primary School Southgate Drive, Crawley RH10 6RP

(Next door to DABCEC).

Friday 16th September: 5 - 10 pm

If you are interested in attending please contact ray.mooney@dabnet.org or lucy.jardine@dabnet.org

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary . . .

2011-08-13T14:48:00.005+01:00

Mary is assumed into heaven.

The angels rejoice, and praising together

bless the Lord.

2011-08-04T07:00:00.005+01:00

Today we celebrate the feast day of St Jean Marie Vianney, Patron of Parish Priests.

Act of Love of the Holy Curé
D'Ars

I love you, O my God. My only desire is to love you, until the last breath of my life. I love you, O infinitely loveable God, and I prefer to die loving you, rather than to live for an instant without you.

I love you, O my God, and I desire only to go to heaven, to have the happiness of loving you perfectly. I love you, O my God, and my only fear is to go to hell, because one will never have the sweet solace of loving you there.

O my God, if my tongue cannot say at all times that I love you, at least I want my heart to repeat it to you as many times as I breathe.

Ah! Do me the grace: to suffer while loving you, to love you while suffering, and, that when I die: I not only will love you, but experience it in my heart. I beg you that: the closer I come to my final end, you will increase and perfect my love for you. Amen.

St Jean Marie Vianney, pray for me, and for all parish priests.

New Vocations blog for Arundel & Brighton . . .

2011-08-02T18:47:00.011+01:00

Just a brief line here about an exciting new blog for you all to keep an eye on . . . The Arundel and Brighton Vocations blog, very aptly named, 'I will give you shepherds . . .'

Please join me in praying that more young (and not so young) men hear and respond to God's call.

O God, Father of all Mercies,

Provider of a bountiful Harvest,

Send your Graces

upon those You have called

to gather the fruits of Your labour;

preserve and strengthen them

in their lifelong service to you.

Open the hearts of Your children

that they may discern Your Holy Will;

inspire in them a love and desire

to surrender themselves

to serving others in the name of

Your son, Jesus Christ.

Teach all your faithful to follow

their respective paths in life

guided by Your Divine Word and Truth.

Through the intercession of the

Most Blessed Virgin Mary,

all the Angels, and Saints,

humbly hear our prayers

and grant Your Church's needs,

through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Confused? You're not the only one . . .

2011-07-29T10:11:00.012+01:00

We've had one or two occasions recently when we've wanted to fly the Papal Flag outside our church. One of our parishioners kindly set up a temporary flagpole for us which did the job quite satisfactorily but we thought maybe if we had a proper flagpole we might be encouraged to use if more often, on special feast days for example.

Having erected the flagpole yesterday, we are having a 'dry run' with the complimentary flag of St George that came with it.

I think it confused a few parishioners when they came for Mass this morning. It's certainly not St George's Day but I hope St Martha appreciated it!

It also looks as if our magnolia tree thinks it's April too. One or two blooms have suddenly appeared amongst the greenery.

Feast of Sts Joachim and Ann . . .

2011-07-26T16:17:00.006+01:00

A very happy feast day to all!

We celebrated our feast day in the parish with a lovely Mass this morning followed by Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Adoration throughout the day.

We also had a little social gathering with tea, coffee and cakes after Mass for those who were able to stay.

Lord, God of our fathers,

through Saint Joachim and Saint Ann

You gave us the Mother of Your Incarnate Son.

May their prayers help us to attain the salvation

You promised to Your people. Amen.

St Joachim and St Ann, pray for us.

Social Media . . .

2011-07-26T14:30:00.011+01:00

We're trying to follow our Holy Father's advice here in Banstead and use all types of media to reach out to people and spread the Good News of the Gospel.

To this end, we've just created a parish Facebook page. We hope that if you have your own Facebook account, you will search for the page and 'like' it so that you'll receive status updates directly to your account.

These are just our first faltering steps into social media, but if Pope Benedict XVI can use an iPad, I think it must be acceptable for us to follow in his footsteps, albeit on an 'old-fashioned' computer.

School Confessions . . .

2011-07-20T17:37:00.008+01:00

Top marks to The John Fisher School in Purley!

This afternoon I spent an hour or so at the school hearing Confessions. This session had been arranged to give the boys an opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Penance before the end of the school year. How fortunate the boys are to have Mr Dan Cooper arranging this and other opportunities for Confession throughout their time at the school.

It's always a pleasure to visit the school and very encouraging to see that such care is taken to provide good pastoral and spiritual development for the pupils.

Happy holidays to staff and students alike!

Youth in our Parish . . .

2011-07-18T21:28:00.012+01:00

It's a bit late to start blogging but we had such a good meeting with Ray Mooney this evening, I just thought I'd put down a few of my thoughts whilst they're still fresh in my mind.

Just a small group of young people, mainly those who have just been confirmed but also some of our new Confirmation group, came along to hear what Ray had to say about youth activities in our diocese.

It was quite cosy as we decided to move into our small meeting room rather than in the large parish hall.

We were very fortunate that Ray brought with him the special National Symbol for Youth Ministry that was blessed by Pope Benedict outside Westminster Cathedral during his recent visit.

Once that was set up and the candle lit, display boards arranged around the room, Ray showed us a very well put-together video presentation produced by last year's Lourdes Redshirts.

I don't think any of us present could fail to catch the enthusiasm of the young people in the video. It was quite inspiring and I hope that it inspired some of our young people to seriously consider applying to be a Redshirt next year.

As well as talking about the A&B pilgrimage to Lourdes in some detail, Ray also gave an overview of other youth activities such as Youth Gather, World Youth Day and the Flame Youth Congress to be held at Wembley Arena in March 2012.

You can find out all about youth activities in our diocese by checking out the special Diocesan Youth web site.

A Week in the Life of a Priest . . .

2011-07-14T22:24:00.010+01:00

I saw this interesting video on the Our Sunday Visitor blog.

I don't think I need to add anything else, the video says it all.

It's arrived!!!

2011-06-29T13:10:00.008+01:00

Hot off the press! Just delivered five minutes ago - our new interim Missal. Thank you DHL!

2011-06-29T12:49:00.010+01:00

Are you going to be there? Looking forward to seeing you. Don't forget to sign the list in the porch or there might not be enough pizza!

Corpus Christi - St Ann's Style . . .

2011-06-26T15:44:00.035+01:00

We may not have been able to find a canopy for our procession of the Blessed Sacrament today but our improvised 'ombrellino' looks very fitting, doesn't it?

Today we celebrated the Solemnity of Corpus Christi in fitting style. It was also a Mass of thanksgiving for all our children who have made recently made their First Holy Communion.

It's interesting how the young ladies love to be in front of the camera . . .

Whereas the young gentlemen are much more reticent . . .

Naturally a little celebration was in order for them, and, as is our custom here, a delicious cake was enjoyed by all.

And here are some more photos taken this morning . . .

Corpus Christi Procession of the Blessed Sacrament - What is all about . . . ?

2011-06-26T12:48:00.008+01:00

For any keen parish blog watchers who might have logged in to see photos taken at our own Procession of the Blessed Sacrament this morning, I thought you might like to see this video whilst you're waiting.

There are many videos of Corpus Christi processions but this one has a good explanation by the parish priest. He helps us to understand why we process with the Blessed Sacrament.

It's also encouraging to hear some of his parishioners explain their understanding of why we have such processions.

The Catholicism Project . . .

2011-06-22T11:24:00.004+01:00

Look what was in my email inbox today. Encouraging times ahead!

Catechesis . . .

2011-06-21T18:58:00.026+01:00

A lot has been said and written about poor catechesis in recent years. Not just poor catechesis but a general decline in any sort of catechesis.

This affects not only our children but also our adults who have sadly been lacking good teaching in their formative years.

As Pope St Pius X said,

“If faith languishes in our days,” he said, “if among large numbers it has almost vanished, the reason is that the duty of catechetical teaching is either fulfilled very superficially or altogether neglected.”

His point was that it was one of the primary duties of the priest to ensure that his parishioners received adequate catechesis. One can engage the laity in supporting the priest in this endeavour; indeed, nowadays it is almost essential as most priests find themselves without an assistant priest in the parish. It is nevertheless the responsibility of the Parish Priest to avail himself of every opportunity to help the people develop a better knowledge and understanding of their faith.

Todd Hartch develops this idea further in his excellent post on 'Catholic Thing' here

Holy Mass, the Priesthood and the New Translation . . .

2011-06-20T19:22:00.016+01:00

Looking at the Westminster Diocesan website recently, I was very interested to read this homily by Archbishop Vincent Nichols on the priesthood and the Holy Mass. It was given at the recent annual Celebration of Priesthood earlier this month.

Reflecting on the part played by the priest in the celebration of Mass, Archbishop Nichols highlighted four main areas for consideration.

Firstly that. 'liturgy is never my own possession, or my creation. It is something that we are given, from the Father.'

Secondly that 'the liturgy forms us, not us the liturgy'.

Thirdly that, 'our part is to offer the Mass as a service to the people.'

And, finally, that 'a profound celebration of the Mass inexorable gives rise to a practical expression of compassion and willing service.'

When you have a moment to spare I heartily recommend that you read the full text. I hope you will find it equally helpful whether a member of the laity or the clergy.

You'll find the whole of the Archbishop's homily here.

More celebrations . . .

2011-05-29T18:34:00.014+01:00

Ingredients for a successful parish celebration:

Something to celebrate - The 75th Anniversary of our parish

The presence of a daughter of one of the founding families of the parish

A Bishop - Bishop of Arundel and Brighton, Bishop Kieran Conry,

pictured here with Barbara Flaxman

A church full of smiling parishioners

A choir in splendid voice

A groaning table full of tasty food

A well-stocked bar

A delicious cake

Plenty of helping hands

Put them all together and you have the perfect fool-proof recipe for our parish celebration today.

And just for good measure, add in a parishioner who is also celebrating a 'special birthday' today. Happy Birthday Freda!

Here are a few photos taken this morning . . .

Our newly confirmed . . . !

2011-05-23T10:20:00.006+01:00

Congratulations to all our young people who were confirmed by Bishop Kieran at St Joseph's, Epsom a few weeks ago along with many others from our deanery.

Many thanks to Sam Carr for organising the photo which was taken outside St Ann's on Sunday.

* 'Double-click' on the photos to see an enlarged version.

40 Hours and 75 years . . . !

2011-05-18T18:34:00.011+01:00

Well, what a wonderful time we had in the parish yesterday.

Before we began our 40 Hours Devotion we celebrated a Mass in thanksgiving for all the blessings received during the 75 years since the foundation of the parish of St Ann's.

I am very pleased that several priests who have connections with the parish were able to attend. Fr Stephen Dingley, who was ordained at St Ann's, kindly agreed to preside and Fr Seán Finnegan who was also ordained at St Ann's delivered a very fitting homily. You can see some of the concelebrants pictured below.

They were joined by some former parish priests and assistant priests. I was also delighted to welcome some of the Community of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal who have become welcome visitors to St Ann's ever since they preached a parish mission here a few years ago.

Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament followed after Mass; the lights were lowered and those who were able to stay knelt in Adoration and Prayer . . . and so began our 40 Hours Devotion.

Fish on Fridays . . .

2011-05-16T18:24:00.011+01:00

Have you heard the news?

Meat's out . . . !

And . . . fish is in!

Following the recent plenary meeting of the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales, it has been decided 'to re-establish the practice of Friday penance in the lives of the faithful as a clear and distinctive mark of their own Catholic identity.'

Hooray, I say!

You can read the full press release on the Bishops' Conference website here

The 'Feminisation of the Church . . ."

2011-05-09T12:19:00.007+01:00

I saw this video on the Internet recently. The speaker, Michael Voris, makes some very interesting comments about the 'Feminisation of the Church'.

Looking at our regular Sunday Mass attendance, I don't think anyone would disagree with the suggestion that there are far more women than men in church, not just 'in the pews' but also amongst the Ministers of the Word, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, sacristans, musicians etc.

I wonder if, as suggested, this does have an effect on the men in our congregation and on Catholic men in the Church in general. I'd be interested to hear what other people think.

Update.

Regarding the blog on Feminization of the Church by Michael Voris, parishioners might be interested to know that they can receive daily broadcasts by Michael Voris by clicking onto RealCatholicTV.com Although they are free, you can make donations or, if you can afford it, you can sunscribe £10 per month for a much fuller coverage of all things Catholic. (Thanks to a parishioner for this information)

Welcome Serena . . .

2011-04-29T18:34:00.007+01:00

A very warm welcome to the newest member of our parish family. Serena was baptised and confirmed at the Easter Vigil. Please keep her and her family in your prayers as she continues on her journey of faith.

Christus surrexit, sicut dixit, alleluia!

2011-04-23T23:00:00.009+01:00

Christus surrexit,

sicut dixit,

alleluia!

Christ is risen

as he said!

Alleluia!

There is always a lovely atmosphere in the parish during the day on Holy Saturday . As soon as we have finished praying the Office of Readings in the morning, a veritable 'army' of volunteers springs into action to transform the stark, bare, Good Friday church into a glorious, exuberant setting for the celebration of the Great Feast of Easter beginning of course this evening with the Vigil and the First Mass of the Resurrection.

I am very grateful to the very many parishioners who do so much, not just at Easter time, but throughout the year to make sure that everything runs smoothly in the parish. I don't know where we would be without them.

Here are just a few photos taken recently to give a flavour of Easter in our parish.

The Altar of Repose. (Taken before Mass of the Lord's Supper)

Good Friday, after the Celebration of the Lord's Passion and Veneration of the Cross.

All ready to receive the Paschal Candle at the Easter Vigil.

One of the pedestals that stand either side of the altar.

The Easter Garden.

Flowers for St Ann.

And, of course, for Our Lady.

Finally, I would like to wish everyone who reads this little blog,

A very Happy Easter and every blessing for this Holy Season.

May the joy and peace of Our Risen Lord be with you and your families

now and remain with you.

Welcome Fr José Salas . . . !

2011-04-19T18:44:00.007+01:00

We are delighted to welcome Fr José Salas who is spending a little time in the UK during his Easter vacation from his studies in Rome. Fr José will be joining us in the Easter celebrations here at St Ann's .

We are also very pleased as Fr José seems to have brought some of the Roman sunshine with him . . . or perhaps it has come all the way from his native Mexico!

Passiontide and the veiling of crucifixes and statues . . .

2011-04-10T18:47:00.005+01:00

Our church after Mass this morning with everything ready for Benediction in the afternoon.

We have re-introduced the practice of veiling the crucifix and the statues during Passiontide. The crucifix will remain covered until the end of the celebration of the Lord's Passion on Good Friday. The statues will remain veiled until the beginning of the Easter Vigil.

I refer you to an excellent post by Fr Z on why we continue with this practice

Another very good explanation can be found here.

Beauty in the Liturgy . . .

2011-04-05T13:59:00.004+01:00

Have you seen this excellent article with Mgr Guido Marini, the Papal Master of Ceremonies?

As Mgr Marini says, ' . . . the celebrations the Holy Father presides over are to be the points of reference for the whole Church. The Pope is the highest priest, the one who offers the sacrifice of the Church, the one who shows the liturgical teaching through celebrations – the point of reference for all.'

I wonder what you think?

Have you noticed any differences in the way that Pope Benedict presides over the liturgy?

How would you feel if, for example, Mass were sometimes celebrated ad orientem, in other words, facing East, in the same direction as the congregation?

Would this help you to focus on the sacrifice of the Mass rather than on the celebrant himself?

I would be interested to hear your views?

School Confessions . . .

2011-03-24T18:02:00.012Z

I've commented before on this topic I know, but I think it's worth repeating.

Last week and this I've been hearing Confessions in some of our local Catholic schools, both primary and secondary.

I always find this a great joy. It's so encouraging to hear the honest, direct Confessions of our children. We adults could certainly learn a thing or two from them about how to approach the sacrament.

There is however, one thing that affects my delight in this experience.

When chatting with our children whilst visiting schools, I am saddened by the number of times I hear them say, 'I couldn't come to Mass on Sunday because my Mum/Dad/parents didn't go' or, 'I couldn't come to Mass on Sunday because I was at a friend's sleep-over' or 'I couldn't come to Mass on Sunday because I had to go shopping/visit someone/go to football/rugby etc.' I hear this several times during the week.

Naturally, we wouldn't expect our young children to come to Mass on their own if their parents are not coming themselves. What sort of an example are these parents giving to their children?

Parents are the first and the best educators of their children in the ways of faith (as it clearly states in the Rite of Baptism).

Long before they start formal schooling, in many homes, parents are doing a grand job of passing on the faith to their children. They are saying prayers together at bedtime, sitting down together for meals which begin with grace and reading their children bible stories. During our Sunday Masses, I have observed many families engaging their children, explaining to them in simple terms what is happening during the Mass.

We can do so much to encourage our children in the practice and understanding of their faith. This is why it is all the more disappointing when it doesn't happen.

Mass for all at St Ann's . . .

2011-02-24T12:19:00.007Z

I thought you might like to see a copy of our timetable for the retreat. Sometimes, people who have never been on a retreat ask me, 'what do you actually do on a retreat?'

Here you can see how our retreat is arranged. No two retreat experiences will be identical but I think all will/should contain common elements such as some sort of spiritual talk and an opportunity for spiritual direction; plenty of opportunity for private prayer and reflection and naturally also time for Confession. Hopefully there will be daily Mass and if you are staying with a religious community, retreatants are often invited to join the community for some of the Divine Office.

I do recommend that if possible, we all find time for a retreat at some time. It needn't be very long, just a quiet day away from the hurly-burly of our daily lives can still give us the time and space to draw closer to God and return to pick up our usual routines refreshed and renewed.

I offered Mass today for all at St Ann's.

On Retreat . . .

2011-02-22T11:41:00.007Z

Well, I've arrived! I was met with the usual, warm Opus Dei hospitality.

I know I've posted photos of the oratory here before but it is such a beautiful, peaceful and prayerful place, it is worth another airing.

In recent years I've made my retreat a little later in the year when the weather has been a little kinder but the sun is trying to shine today and the lovely grounds here at Lismullin encourage one to take a stroll even if it is a little damp.

Even after less than 24 hours here, I am beginning to 'hear' the silence. That really helps to get on 'God's wavelength'.

40 Days for Life . . .

2011-02-21T14:06:00.011Z

You will see that I've added a new blog to the list of suggested blogs to follow. '4O Days for Life, London'

I've been asked to advertise this Pro-Life effort which of course I'm happy to do.

March 9th - April 17th 2011

40 Days for Life is a focused pro-life effort that consists of:

40 days of prayer and fasting
40 days of peaceful vigil
40 days of community outreach

We are praying that, with God's help, this groundbreaking effort will mark the beginning of the end of abortion in our city -- and throughout the UK.

Do check out their website here

The New Translation of the Missal . . .

2011-02-18T20:59:00.010Z

We at St Ann's are beginning to get quite excited about using the new translation of the Missal.

As we know, the new translation will be used in all parishes in England and Wales from September of this year.

Here at St Ann's we are beginning to look at some of the texts already, concentrating on the people's responses at the moment so that it won't be a big shock to us when we begin using the new translation.

Most of the changes are quite minor but it's surprising what a wealth of meaning can be added to the familiar texts by just a few changes and how much it will enhance our liturgy.

Today, I was looking at an interesting article on the new CTS blog 'Catholic Compass'. (This is definitely a site worth adding to your bookmarks). The item I refer to is a description of the proposed cover for the new Missal and an explanation of the reasons why this particular design has been chosen.

"The cross which is the centrepiece of the design has been designed to communicate the continuity but also the differences with the 1970 translation of the Mass. The cross is the same shape as that used on the previous Liturgical Books but is more complex, laden with symbolism and hopefully more beautiful, encapsulating some of the aims of the new text. The cross also aims to represents something of the ancient character of the texts contained and the liturgy celebrated using the Missal."

You can read about it here.

It certainly is a beautiful Missal and will look very fitting on our altar. I think you could say that we are now eagerly awaiting it's arrival.

Looking at the main CTS website it appears that the new Missal will become available in progressive stages.

Firstly, in June of this year, the Order of Mass will be available in several forms including pew cards so that we can all become familiar with the revised texts.

Then the Altar Missal will be available in two stages. The initial version will contain the texts necessary for the priest to celebrate Mass from September to Advent 2011.

Finally, from Advent 2011 the rest of the texts will be in use and available to all, including people's Missals.

I hope many of you will be including a new Missal on your Christmas list this year!

Helpers' Lunch . . .

2011-02-12T17:08:00.016Z

Every year at about this time we invite everyone who helps in the parish in any way whatsoever to a 'Thank You' lunch in the parish hall. I was delighted that so many could attend. If you were to make a list of everyone who helps in some way in our parish, I think you would be surprised at the length of that list.

Inevitably, there will be some people who unfortunately can't make the date allocated but we had a good number of parishioners in our hall at lunchtime today. Actually, if everyone in the parish were to be available on the same day, I don't know how we would cope!

I am very grateful to everyone who assists in the running of the parish. As all parish priests know, we simply couldn't manage without you!

In the photo above you can see some of our social committee in the kitchen and here is a slide show which has hopefully captured everyone else who was present.

Our Lady of Lourdes . . .

2011-02-11T12:02:00.007Z

Our Lady is always Health of the Sick and Comfort of the Afflicted.

As we pray today especially for the sick, let us bring to Her our every need.

Our Lady had a clear message in mind when she appeared in Lourdes; she wanted to remind the world of the need for conversion and penance. She wished also to remind us that all have been redeemed by Christ's sacrifice on Calvary.

Today once again we ask Our Blessed Lady's help in all the circumstances of life.

Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us.

What the Papers Say . . .

2011-01-20T18:34:00.013Z

It certainly is a very interesting and exciting time to be a Catholic at the moment.

I wonder how many of our parishioners read the Catholic papers regularly or follow Catholic news on various websites and blogs; or do we rely on the secular media for coverage of what is happening in the Catholic Church - BBC/ITV/Sky/ news etc. on TV, or the radio?

A look at the front cover of the Catholic Herald this week (other Catholic newspapers are available!) gives us an idea of some of the important things that are happening in the Catholic Church at the moment and many of them will have a direct impact on all of us.

The new translation of the Missal is now ready and we will be learning more about that soon. I will be joining other clergy from our diocese next month for a study day looking at the new translation and will be able to tell you more about it after that. We do know that it will be available for use in parishes in England and Wales from September of this year.

I hope that you will take this opportunity to discover why certain changes have been made to the translation of the Mass that we are now so familiar with so do please look out for any articles in the press or news in our own parish.

I'm sure it will take a little while for us (myself included) to get used to a new form of words. Some changes will be slight and others more pronounced but there will be plenty of explanations nearer the time.

Another news item that dominates this weekends' papers is the proposed Beatification of Pope John Paul II. A cause dear to many people's hearts, I'm sure.

Finally, the third item that struck me in the news is the establishment of the new Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham for former Anglicans who wish to enter into Full Communion with the Catholic Church whilst still retaining some of their Anglican patrimony. I'm sure you will all have heard of the Ordination to the priesthood of three former Anglican Bishops at Westminster Cathedral recently. One of these three priests, Fr Keith Newton, has been appointed Ordinary of the new Ordinariate.

So, there is lots to read, think and talk about for all us. I expect the Catholic papers to be all sold out pretty soon this weekend!

First Confessions . . .

2011-01-15T17:01:00.013Z

This morning after Mass I heard the First Confessions of the first group of our First Holy Communion children.

It is our practice to have First Confessions at the usual time for parish Confessions, i.e. after Saturday morning Mass. I think this is helpful as the children get the idea that going to Confession is a regular part of parish life as they see other parishioners waiting beside them.

We also encourage the whole family to come to church with the child and to go to Confession too. I'm pleased to say that I was able to confess many whole families this morning. This is another great example for our children.

Congratulations and well done to all!

A Momentous Occasion . . . !

2011-01-15T16:17:00.014Z

I couldn't let the day pass without a brief note on the historic events of this past week.

On Thursday three former Bishops of the Church of England were ordained Deacon at Allen Hall Seminary by Bishop Alan Hopes. This followed their reception into Full Communion with the Catholic Church on New Year's Day at Westminster Cathedral.

The three newly ordained priests, ordained by Archbishop Vincent Nichols at Westminster Cathedral today, are the first members of the newly created Ordinariate for former Anglican priests. The new Ordinariate, established by papal decree, is to be known as the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham, under the protection of Blessed John Henry Newman.

Fr Newton has been appointed Ordinary of the new Ordinariate.

You can read all about it (as they say!) here and here.

Let us pray for them all at this momentous time, not just the new priests and their families, but also for the Catholic Church in England and Wales, and beyond.

O Mary,

recall the solemn moment when Jesus,

your divine Son,

dying on the cross confided us to your maternal care.

You are our Mother;

we desire ever to remain your devout children.

Let us therefore feel the effects

of your powerful intercession with Jesus Christ.

Make your name again glorious in this place,

once renowned throughout our land by your visits,

favours and many miracles.

Pray, O Holy Mother of God,

for the conversion of England,

restoration of the sick, consolation for the afflicted,

repentance of sinners, peace to the departed.

O Blessed Mary, Mother of God,

Our Lady of Walsingham intercede for us. Amen.

Our Lady of Walsingham, pray for us.

A fascinating evening . . .

2011-01-10T10:33:00.009Z

We are very grateful to Neil Slattery who stepped in at the last moment to talk to us about the work of St Patrick's Mission, in place of John Pridmore who unfortunately was unable to speak at St Ann's on Saturday evening due to illness.

Neil, who works closely with John, touring with him and assisting in giving talks to schools and parishes, gave us a fascinating talk about his own experiences and conversion story. Throughout his testimony, he mentioned several incidents which brought him back to the practice of his faith.

The catalyst was the sudden, serious illness and hospitalisation of his father. Through contact with family members in Ireland and the constant support and prayers of his mother, John told a moving story of the acknowledgement of his own mistakes and how, through prayer, especially invoking the help our Our Blessed Lady, he came to know Jesus as Lord.

Neil's talk was enthusiastically received by the large number of people who were present and we all look forward to welcoming John Pridmore himself to speak to us at St Ann's at a later date.

Happy New Year/Solemnity/Octave . . .!

2011-01-01T00:01:00.006Z

Today the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, our Lady's greatest title.

This feast is the octave of Christmas. A very special celebration. In the modern Roman Calendar only Christmas and Easter enjoy the privilege of an octave.

Here's an extract from CCC about today's Solemnity.

"Mary, the all-holy ever-virgin Mother of God, is the masterwork of the mission of the Son and the Spirit in the fullness of time. For the first time in the plan of salvation and because his Spirit had prepared her, the Father found the dwelling place where his Son and his Spirit could dwell among men. In this sense the Church's Tradition has often read the most beautiful texts on wisdom in relation to Mary. Mary is acclaimed and represented in the liturgy as the "Seat of Wisdom." — Catechism of the Catholic Church 721

And the Opening Prayer from today's Mass:

Let us pray

[that Mary the mother of the Lord,

will help us by her prayers]

God our Father ,

may we always profit by the prayers

for you bring us life and salvation
through Jesus Christ her Son
who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit,
One God, forever and ever. Amen.

Today's Solemnity is always celebrated on 1st January so as well as wishing everyone a very happy feast day, it also gives me an opportunity to wish you all . . .

A very Happy and Blessed New Year!

A Blessed Christmas to all . . .

2010-12-24T18:00:00.005Z

Wishing you all a very Happy, Holy and Blessed Christmas.

And another version here for all Irish-speaking readers of this blog:

Go mbeannaithe Dia dhiobh uile.

What's in a kiss . . . ?

2010-12-16T14:58:00.004Z

Sex, love and marriage . . Good, now I've got your attention . . . Have a look at this:

In the pink . . . !

2010-12-11T20:59:00.008Z

Well, we're definitely feeling 'in the pink' here in Banstead.

"Gaudete in Domino' So says the Introit for Gaudete Sunday. "Rejoice in the Lord always'.

Advent, like Lent is a penitential season, so normally I would be wearing purple vestments, but tomorrow, if you happen to be in the area, you will see me wearing a very tasteful pink chasuble, or, as we prefer to say at St Ann's, 'rose' vestments.

We've passed the midpoint of Advent and so we have a slightly lighter mood. This change gives us encouragement to continue with our spiritual preparation for Christmas.

As with the vestments, so with our Advent wreath; we shall be lighting the pink/rose candle.

Rejoice!

Phew - What a Week! . . .

2010-12-10T14:50:00.011Z

What an exciting week I've had. I've been visiting 0ur parish school of St Anne's to hear Confessions and also a local secondary school.

This is always a very joyful experience and also quite humbling to hear the simple, honest Confessions of our children. What an inspiration they are to us.

I've been visiting the care homes in our parish and the sick and housebound who are still able to live in their homes.

I am always greatly encouraged by the time I spend with the housebound. Their faith and prayerfulness is marvellous to witness and, I know I've said it before but they really do represent a powerhouse of prayer in our parish community.

I would like to thank them for their prayers on behalf of our parish family.

Our Lady, Health of the Sick,

Pray for us.

Snow Day . . .

2010-12-01T20:35:00.006Z

Did you have a 'Snow Day' today? I think many of our parishioners did. Our parish school, like many others across the country, was closed and there were just 6 of us at Mass this morning. Well done to those intrepid parishioners who braved the elements to walk to Mass.

Please spare a thought and a prayer for those who are really badly affected by this weather, especially those sleeping rough.

Prayer . . .

2010-11-29T17:38:00.006Z

Lord Jesus, teach us how to pray

A very brief but beautiful video from stpaulstube.com

Holy Hour for all Nascent Life . . .

2010-11-27T17:15:00.001Z

Responding to the Holy Father's wishes we were happy to hold a Holy Hour this afternoon to pray for all nascent life.

We began with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Vespers of the First Sunday of Advent . This was followed by a period of silent prayer and the recitation of the Holy Rosary.

We concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. It was lovely that our organist was able to attend and we were able to sing the O Salutaris, Tantum Ergo and Adoremus at Benediction. It was indeed a very 'Holy' Hour.

Thank you to all who braved the freezing weather to come and prayer for this very important intention.

Lux æterna . . . Requiescant in pace . . .

2010-11-26T12:32:00.013Z

This evening we have our annual Mass for the repose of the soul of all those parishioners who have died during the past year.

Naturally, it is also very much for the families and friends who are grieving for their loved ones.

We have been doing this for several years now and I have received many positive comments from the bereaved.

We invite people to come into the hall afterwards for a cup of tea and a chat. Many have found it a useful part of the healing process. It can be helpful to talk to others in the same situation. For some their grief will still be very raw whilst for others they may be further down the line in the grieving process.

All are welcome to come along to the Mass at 7.30pm this evening. It is good to see other parishioners who come along to pray for people they may not have known personally and to offer a friendly ear to the bereaved.

'Come and See' - 'Coming Home' . . .

2010-11-22T11:12:00.010Z

We were delighted that Joanna Bogle, the well-known Catholic writer and broadcaster accepted our invitation to come and speak to us for the final session of our 'Come and See' initiative.

Joanna took as her theme 'Coming Home' and gave a very interesting talk which, whilst very entertaining, nevertheless retained an authentic message about the important of the sacrament of Confession, not just for those who are returning to the practice of their faith, but for every Catholic.

Of course we don't know what the outcome of our 'Come and See' initiative will be but we have 'sown the seed' and pray that with the Lord's help our efforts will be multiplied and bear fruit.

Our Lady, Help of Christians, pray for us.

Verbum Domini . . .

2010-11-15T13:44:00.007Z

Pope Benedict XVI's latest Apostolic Exhortation, 'Verbum Domini' was published by the Vatican on Thursday, 11th November 2010. In this document, the Holy Father highlights the importance of the Word of God in living our personal vocations. Pope Benedict says that the word of God 'calls each one of us personally, revealing that life itself is a vocation from God.'

He also quotes from Saint Jerome when he says,

"We are reading the sacred Scriptures. For me, the Gospel is the Body of Christ; for me, the holy Scriptures are his teaching. And when he says: whoever does not eat my flesh and drink my blood (Jn 6:53) even though these words can also be understood of the (Eucharistic) Mystery, Christ's body and blood are really the word of Scripture, God's teaching."

If you would like to study this latest Apostolic Exhortation in detail, you will find the full text here.

Five Brave Men and True . . .

2010-11-08T20:38:00.014Z

A very warm welcome 'home' to the five Anglican Bishops who have today publicly declared their intention to take up Pope Benedict's generous invitation to join the Anglican Ordinariate.

The Rt Rev Andrew Burnham, Bishop of Ebbsfleet; The Rt Rev Keith Newton, Bishop of Richborough and The Bishop of Fulham, the Rt Rev John Broadhurst; The Rt Rev Edwin Barnes, former Bishop of Richborough and The Rt Rev David Silk, former Bishop of Balleratt in Australia.

Please keep them all in your prayers at this time as they take these first courageous steps into Full Communion with the Catholic Church in the new Ordinariate.

Our Lady, Mother of Priests, pray for us.

'Come and See' - Robin Farrow . . .

2010-11-08T11:37:00.021Z

We had another very successful and enjoyable evening last night, the second in our 'Come and See' programme. Once again, I would say we had in the region of 40 people present including a few newcomers.

We are very grateful to Robin Farrow, a man of great integrity, for telling us in such an interesting and honest way about his own personal journey to Full Communion with the Catholic Church.

A former Anglican Rector in a parish in East Sussex, Robin's talk gave rise to quite a prolonged question and answer session. I think many of the 'Catholic' practices Robin described when telling us about his background in the Anglican church would have come as a surprise to some parishioners present.

We were delighted too that Robin's wife, Caroline, and their family were also able to join us. Naturally making such a momentous decision would have been impossible for Robin without the full support of his wife.

Please keep Robin and his family in your prayers as they bravely put out into the deep. They have only recently moved out of the Rectory and one of Robin's first priorities will be to find a job.

Our next and final 'Come and See' evening will be on

Sunday 21st November from 7pm to 8pm.

We are delighted that Joanna Bogle, the well-known Catholic writer and broadcaster has agreed to come and talk to us. The theme of her talk will be 'Coming Home'.

They Came and They Saw . . .

2010-10-25T10:10:00.011+01:00

We had a very good turnout for the first of our 'Come and See' evenings last night. Mainly our regular parishioners but there were one or two unfamiliar faces dotted around amongst them.

Fr Andrew invited us to look at the idea of ''happiness" as presented to us via the advertising industry. In a very interesting and at times amusing way, he drew our attention to the link, or lack of it, between the secular world's understanding of happiness and that of the religious world and how this has changed throughout history.

His short talk was followed by quite a lengthy question and answer session over tea and biscuits. He obviously gave us plenty to think about.

We look forward to our next 'Come and See' session on Sunday 7th November when Robin Farrow will talk to us about his journey from Anglican Vicar to Catholic layman.

These evenings are open to all Catholics, not just those who may have been distanced from the practice of their faith for a while. Do please come along even if you are not accompanying one of our inactive Catholic friends.

Our Lady, Help of Christians,

Pray for us.

Congratulations Marie!

2010-10-24T12:57:00.014+01:00

Congratulations Marie! We do love something to celebrate here at St Ann's and what could be better than a 'special' birthday combined with the presentation of a well-earned Benemerenti medal?

Marie and her family have been parishioners here at St Ann's for many, many years and for quite a few of those years, amongst her other 'jobs' Marie has helped in the sacristy looking after the vestments and altar linen.

As I said after Mass on Sunday, Marie truly is one of our 'unsung heroes'. In all parishes you will find people like her; quietly working away behind the scenes and most parishioners are unaware of the debt we owe them for their tireless effort and commitment to make sure all runs smoothly in their sphere of responsibility.

It was therefore my privilege to present Marie with the Benemerenti medal on Sunday on behalf of the parish.

Marie's family had kindly arranged for a delicious birthday cake to be made and shared with Marie's parish family in the hall after Mass.

Congratulations and our warmest wishes Marie. We hope you had a super birthday.

Banstead Catholics Come Home, 'Come and See' - A little reminder . . .

2010-10-15T10:53:00.017+01:00

I hope you all have a big red circle on your calendar around Sunday 24th October, the beginning of our 'Come and See' initiative.

Please do invite someone you know along to our 'Come and See' evenings; to hear speakers talking about their faith and to have a chat with other parishioners in a very informal setting.

I expect many of us know someone who has become distanced from the practice of their faith; a Catholic friend maybe, a Catholic neighbour or even a member of our own family. This is an opportunity to encourage them to 'Come and See'; to reacquaint themselves with their faith in a social setting in the company of friends.

We have been very fortunate in that Fr Andrew Pinsent has kindly agreed to come and talk to us on Sunday 24th October. Fr Pinsent is co-author with Fr Marcus Holden of Evangelium, a multimedia course on the Catholic Faith. He will talk to us about 'What makes us happy?'

On Sunday 7th November we are delighted to welcome Robin Farrow, a former Anglican Vicar recently received into Full Communion with the Catholic Church, who will talk to us about his own faith journey.

We will also be meeting on Sunday 21st November.

Just in case you'd like to refresh your memory, you'll find a few reasons for Coming Back to the Church here and here.

I look forward to welcoming you on . . .

Sunday 24th October

Sunday 7th November

Sunday 21st November

7pm - 8pm: St Ann's Parish Hall, Banstead

Why go to Mass on Sundays . . . ?

2010-10-04T13:56:00.010+01:00

Matthew Warner of Fallible Blogma has an excellent article on why we should go to Mass on Sundays. This is a question that I'm often asked by parishioners. Matthew lays out the answer to this age-old question in a clear, very straightforward way in the light of the teaching of the Catholic Church.

If you're not familiar with Matthew's very readable blog (and even if you are) do pop on over and have a look at this post and any others that catch your eye.

October is the month of the Holy Rosary . . .

2010-10-01T12:23:00.012+01:00

(Click on the picture to enlarge)

October is the month of the Holy Rosary.

John Paul II said it was his favourite prayer. This prayer to Our Lady is both contemplative and vocal; 'The heart of the Rosary is contemplation.' says John Paul II. Saying the Rosary will bring us peace; one of the ways this happens is that we pray the prayers with the rhythm of our breath and the beat of our our hearts.

In praying the Rosary we can enter into the lives of Jesus and Mary. Mary will always teach us about her Son, and we see Jesus through the eyes of His mother.

Who knows Jesus better than His mother?

As we pray the Rosary during the month of October let us ask Mary to teach us about Jesus.

Our Lady of the Rosary,

pray for us.

No time for mediocrity . . .

2010-09-27T12:34:00.008+01:00

No time for mediocrity! How true!

I saw this excellent video and thought how very appropriate for our 'Come and See' initiative.

There is no need to write much about it, the video speaks for itself.

Hooray for Doug - we need more like him!

Reasons for coming back to the Church - Part Two

2010-09-25T07:00:00.004+01:00

Continued from yesterday; more reasons for coming back to the Church . . .

Reason Five
We want our children to have a solid faith. Sometimes parents return to the Church because they realise that bringing up their children in a culture which promotes 'doing your own thing' often leads to ruin and disaster. We need structures of belief and the sound moral grounding that goes beyond our logic and reasoning.

Reason Six
We return because we want to be healed. Some of us struggle as we carry around deep spiritual wounds. We have difficulty in having a relationship with God because 'bad' things happen; illness, a broken marriage, a bereavement and so. The Catholic Church, while it cannot change these events, can help in the process of spiritual healing.

Reason Seven
We return to the Church because we need to forgive. We often hold a resentment towards an individual how has hurt us; maybe it was a family member, someone who works in the Church or even a priest. The Catholic Church offers us an opportunity to ask God's help in forgiving others, even if the other person doesn't ask for forgiveness or perhaps does not deserve it. When we forgive our hearts are ever more open to God.

Reason Eight
We want meaning in our lives. In our daily busy lives we begin to ask the question, ' Where is my life going?' 'What is my destiny?' We live in a confused world; the Catholic Church offers us a beacon of light and hope and leads us to eternal life if we persevere.

Each of us will have our own reasons for being part of that great body of believers which is the Catholic Church.

The parish of St Ann's invites you to 'Come Home' . . . to 'Come and See'.

Sunday 24th October 2010

7pm - 8pm, St Ann's Church Hall

Reasons for coming back to the Church . . .

2010-09-24T12:48:00.019+01:00

I wish to say at the beginning that using the crisis in the Church as an excuse for not practising one's faith is no excuse.

We will always be a Church of saints and sinners; Jesus Christ, on whom the Church is built is Holy and it is to Him we speak, 'Cor ad Loquitor', heart to heart.

Christ is at the heart of the reasons to come home, to 'Come and See'.

Here are a number of reasons that have influenced the decisions of a few people I know . . .

Reason One
Many people 'come home' to the Catholic Church because they have a yearning to receive Holy Communion. This yearning for Holy Communion triggers a recognition of the purpose of Jesus Christ in the other sacraments and this draws them ever more deeply into the practice of the faith. Therefore the Blessed Sacrament is without a doubt the principal reason that people 'come home' to the Catholic Church.

Reason Two
We wish to be part of a believing community. A Catholic community is a group of people who come together in the presence of Jesus Christ, to praise God our Father. We, Catholics, come together at Mass, to celebrate our joys, to grieve, to help each other, to pray and provide support and to gain strength for daily life. As a Catholic parish we offer all this and much more.

Reason Three
We have a desire to help others; Jesus commands us to love God and our neighbour; in helping others we become instruments of God's love.

Reason Four
The Catholic Church is One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic.

'You are Peter and on this Rock I will build my Church'. The Church has been guided by the Holy Spirit and protected from error on issues of faith and morals for over 2,000 years.

To be continued . . .

The parish of St Ann's invites you to 'Come Home' . . . to 'Come and See'.

Sunday 24th October 2010

7pm - 8pm, St Ann's Church Hall

An invitation . . .

2010-09-23T11:03:00.022+01:00

'He said to them, Come and See.

They went with Him then and saw where He was living;

and they were with him all that day . . ' (John 1:39)

Fr Míċeál and Deacon Kevin invite Banstead Catholics to come home; to 'Come and See'.

No matter how long you have been away from the Catholic Church you can always 'Come Home'. You can start going to Mass again and become part of our parish community who are ready to welcome you with open arms. God is inviting you to 'Come and See', to begin again, to grow in your faith now more than ever before.

You may already be feeling a strong inner desire to look once again into the Church - that yearning, that desire is God Himself inviting you back. God NEVER forces, He ONLY invites. God will leave the decision to return to the Catholic Church to you.

There are many reasons for coming back to the Catholic Church. Christ is at the heart and centre of the many reasons to come home, to 'Come and See'. Every person's experience in returning will be unique, depending on what speaks to his or her heart . . . 'Cor ad Cor Loquitor'.

Yet more photos . . .

2010-09-22T15:25:00.004+01:00

Thank you Gloria for sharing your photos.

'O happy band of pilgrims' indeed.

More photos from Cofton Park . . .

2010-09-20T21:24:00.010+01:00

A little cold and damp but definitely happy pilgrims! Thank you Flick for sharing your photos with us.

Pilgrim photos . . .

2010-09-20T13:53:00.011+01:00

Many thanks to Chas for sharing with us these photos he took at Cofton Park yesterday of the Beatification Mass for Blessed John Henry Newman. If any other pilgrims from the parish have any photos, we'd love to see them. Just email them to the parish office please.

The Beatification of John Henry Cardinal Newman . . .

2010-09-19T20:53:00.004+01:00

Just in case you missed it . . .

Blessed John Henry Newman,

Pray for us.

Happy, Smiling Pilgrims . . .

2010-09-19T13:50:00.011+01:00

You'd never guess these pictures were taken at about 1.30 in the morning, would you? Here you see some of our parish pilgrims heading off to Cofton Park in the early hours.

I look forward to talking to them when they get back and hearing about their personal experiences and their impressions of this momentous occasion - the Beatification of Blessed John Henry Cardinal Newman.

By the way, if any pilgrims have any photos they'd like to share, do please email them to the parish office and we'll try to post them in the next few days. Thank you.

(Click on the photos above to enlarge)

Blessed John Henry Cardinal Newman - Well, almost!

2010-09-19T07:00:00.003+01:00

Today, in case you've come from another planet, is the day of the Beatification Mass for John Henry Cardinal Newman at Cofton Park in Birmingham.

Along with parish groups from all over the country, 2o or so of our parishioners will join in this marvellous celebration. I'm sure it will be a day they will remember for the rest of their lives. I don't envy them their early start at 1.30am but I'm sure is will be a small price to pay to take part in this significant event.

We have been singing one of Newman's famous hymns, 'Praise to the Holiest in the Height', quite a bit in the parish recently; I though to celebrate the Beatification you might like to join in a chorus of another of Newman's well-known hymn, 'Lead, kindly light'

O My Lord Jesus

O my Lord Jesus,
low as I am in Your all-holy sight,
I am strong in You,
strong through Your Immaculate Mother,
through Your saints
and thus I can do much for the Church,
for the world, for all I love.

(John Henry Cardinal Newman)

Visitors . . .

2010-09-18T15:26:00.018+01:00

It's been a busy time in the parish this week with one or two special celebrations - a Ruby Wedding Anniversary on Friday, an 80th Birthday and a Baptism today.

We've also been very pleased to welcome a couple of visitors to the parish this week.

We have a visitor in the presbytery. Don Michele Barone has been using the parish as his base whilst he's here for the Papal Visit. He flew up to Scotland for the events there and will go to London today and Birmingham tomorrow. I was pleased that he was able to concelebrate Mass in the parish this morning before he left for London.

Don Barone is a priest of the order of La Cassata di Nazareth in Italy.

Also, Sr Anastasia has been in the parish all week. She has been visiting her family and having a bit of a rest from her work in Sri Lanka with children and young people with special needs. Some of you may have met her at Mass.

Tu es Petrus . . .

2010-09-17T07:00:00.002+01:00

Hip, Hip, Hooray, he's here!

Welcome Holy Father . . .

2010-09-16T07:00:00.002+01:00

Welcome Holy Father!

Benvenuto Santo Padre!

Willkommen Heiliger Vater!

Flying the flag . . .

2010-09-15T19:17:00.011+01:00

I'm very grateful to John who braved the wet and windy weather yesterday evening to hoist the Papal flag outside St Ann's Church. As you can see from the photo John has made a return visit to make sure it's secure.

We are lucky that we are on a busy main road and so the flag will be seen by all the passers-by.

I think it looks great!

Our Lady of Sorrows . . .

2010-09-15T07:00:00.001+01:00

Today the Church reminds us of the particular union that Our Blessed Lady shared with in the sacrifice of her Son on the Cross.

The love of Our Lady for her Son permits her to share His sufferings as though they were her own.

Today's feast is an opportunity for each of us to accept our little trials as personal purification. Our Lady teaches us not to complain as we know she never would; she encourages us to unite our trials and difficulties to the sacrifice of he Son for our own salvation and for the whole world.

'O sweet Mother, fount of love,

touch my spirit from above,

make my heart with yours accord.'

The Exaltation of the Holy Cross . . .

2010-09-14T07:00:00.001+01:00

Today's feast has been celebrated since the fourth century. The Divine Office and the texts of today's Mass proclaim the Holy Cross as the instrument of our salvation. Inasmuch as our first parents sinned beneath the shadow of a tree, God accomplished our redemption on the wood of the Cross.

At Mass we pray,

'God Our Father, in obedience to you, your only son accepted death on the Cross for the salvation of mankind. We acknowledge the mystery of the Cross on earth. May we receive the gift of redemption in heaven.'

The Cross is present in our lives in different ways; it may manifest itself through illness, loneliness, bereavement and in many other human circumstances. In our prayer today we can examine our disposition as we come face to face with the Cross.

'Cross most faithful, you are the noblest tree of all!

No other tree can compare with your leaves,

your flowers and your fruit.' (Hymn, Crux Fidelis)

'On yer bike . . . '

2010-09-11T15:18:00.012+01:00

We are very grateful to Mary (2nd from right) for once again offering to take part in the sponsored cycle ride organised by Surrey Churches Preservation Trust on behalf of our parish.

This is an annual event and having recently widened it's scope to encourage walkers to join in the fun too it is now known as 'Ride and Stride'.

Participants set off at their own pace and are sponsored for the number of churches (of various denominations) they are able to visit in the local area. Last year Mary managed to 'tick off' an amazing 22 churches.

Spotted outside St Ann's Church after Mass this morning are some visiting cyclists alongside Mary.

"I'm very much looking forward to my visit . . . "

2010-09-08T16:47:00.008+01:00

The Holy Father has been speaking about his forthcoming visit to the United Kingdom. He says that he is very much looking forward to the visit and thanks the British Government; the Scottish Bishops; those of England and Wales and all who are involved in organising the visit for the vast amount of work they have put in to make the visit possible.

ACN Annual Mass - ' Hope Without Fear' Westminster

2010-09-03T18:21:00.017+01:00

I have been asked by Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) to promote their Annual Mass and 'Hope Without Fear' event at Westminster which I am very happy to do.

The day begins with the Annual Mass (Sung Latin Mass) at Westminster Cathedral at 10.30am on 16th October.

Mass will be followed by an afternoon of talks from a variety of speakers in the cathedral hall including amongst others;

Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kassala of Tombura-Yambio, south Sudan.
Bishop Eduardo is leading his people in south Sudan through a time of great uncertainty. In an interview with Aid to the Church in Need in April, he warned of the likelihood of an outbreak of violence in the wake of political elections.

Father Michael Shields from Magadan, Siberia
Father Michael is a long-time friend of Aid to the Church in Need. An American from Alaska, he chose to serve in a former communist gulag camp in Magadan, Siberia. Millions died here.

John Pontifex, Aid to the Church in Need.
Aid to the Church in Need’s UK Head of Press and Information will speak about suffering, faith and hope in Pakistan.

Neville Kyrke-Smith, Aid to the Church in Need.
As UK Director of Aid to the Church in Need, Neville Kyrke-Smith has travelled extensively in Eastern Europe. At this year’s Westminster Event, he will give an update on the help you are giving to Christians in Ukraine, where he recently visited.

£5.00 Book online

Further details may be found ACN's website here.

All change at Banstead - Ecumenically speaking, that is . . .

2010-09-02T12:58:00.016+01:00

In the next few weeks we have to say a fond farewell to three members of our Banstead Five Clergy.

Rev David Chance, Vicar of All Saints, Banstead is retiring after 17 years in his parish and moving down to Margate with his wife and family to enjoy a well-earned retirement. I'm sure he will be sadly missed by his congregation and many others who have been used to seeing him at various B5 events and generally around and about in Banstead.

Rev Damian Miles, Vicar of St Paul's, Nork is also taking his leave from us as he moves on to a new appointment in Thorpe, near Heathrow. Rev Damian Miles, although not in his parish as long as the Vicar of All Saints, has nevertheless made his mark in his community and we're sure his successor will appreciate the work he has put into building up the community of Christians in Nork.

Finally, we must say goodbye to our local Methodist Minister, Rev Nigel Wright who has managed to juggle the demands of two Methodist churches, one in Banstead and one in Epsom, and still find time to join in Banstead Five events. After four years here Nigel and his family have already left Banstead to continue their ministry in Leighton Buzzard. We look forward to getting to know our new local Methodist Minister, Rev John Amankwatia, who took up his new appointment here just yesterday.

We wish them all well as they move on to the next stage of their ministry.

Assumpta est Maria in Caelum, gaudent Angeli! Et Gaudet Ecclesia!

2010-08-15T07:00:00.013+01:00

Assumpta est Maria in Caelum, gaudent Angeli! Et gaudet Ecclesia!

From the fifth century the Church has implicitly believed in the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, body and soul, into heaven. The dogma of the Assumption was promulgated by Pope Pius XII on 1st November 1950.

Mary's Assumption is a marvellous precursor of our own resurrection; it is made possible by Christ's own rising from the dead. St Paul reminds us, 'He will transfigure our lowly body, making it like his own body, radiant in glory' (Phil 3:21)

Our late Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, speaking about today's Solemnity says, 'Today's Solemnity is like a continuation of Easter, the Resurrection and Ascension of the Lord. It is at the same time, a sign and source of hope for eternal life and the future resurrection.'

Our Blessed Lady is a great advocate before the throne of God. May we ask her today; Mary, Refuge of Sinners, show us your son Jesus whom we are in need of above all else.

'Today the Virgin Mother of God is taken up into heaven to be the beginning and pattern of the Church in its perfection, and a sign of hope and comfort for your people on their pilgrim way.' (Preface of the Assumption).

St Jean-Marie Vianney . . .

2010-08-04T07:00:00.011+01:00

Benediction with the monstrance used by St Jean Vianney

Dear Jesus, we thank you for the joy and happiness

brought to us by the Most Holy Eucharist.

Come and slake our thirst, satisfy our hunger.

Deepen our desire to receive you in this Sacrament of your Love,

so that we might become one with you for ever.

Amen.

Today we keep the memorial of St Jean-Marie Vianney. He was born near Lyons in 1786 and from an early age wanted to become a priest.

After his ordination in 1815 he was sent to the village of Ars and was Parish Priest there for forty years.

He was most noted for his great love and devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. As a Spiritual Director he attracted big numbers and spent many hours in the confessional.

He was canonised in 1925 by Pope Pius XI and declared Patron of Parish Priests.

St Jean Vianney's confessional.

Lord God, we thank you for the beauty and grace
of the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Give us deeper faith in the power of this sacrament
to purify and renew our soul,
and grant us greater confidence in your boundless mercy.
Amen.

Saints Joachim and Ann . . .

2010-07-26T07:00:00.004+01:00

Today here at St Ann's we celebrate our Patronal Feast of St Joachim and St Ann.

An ancient tradition from the second century attributes the names of Joachim and Ann to be the parents of Our Blessed Lady.

Today we entrust the mother and father of Our Lady with all our needs, particularly the needs of our families and the sanctity of our homes.

We pray in the Opening Prayer of today's Mass:

God of our fathers,

you gave Saints Joachim and Ann

the privilege of being the parents of Mary,

the mother of your incarnate Son.

May their prayers help us to attain

the salvation you have promised to your people.

St Joachim and St Ann, pray for us.

A & B Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes . . .

2010-07-23T10:49:00.012+01:00

On Thursday pilgrims from across our diocese will be making their way to Lourdes for our annual Diocesan Pilgrimage led by Bishop Kieran and accompanied by many of our clergy. Among the group will be able-bodied and sick pilgrims, doctors, nurses, blue-shirted helpers and their slightly younger counterparts the 'Red Shirts' and including a number from our own parish.

Please keep them all in your prayers at this time that they will experience God's healing love in a special way during their time of pilgrimage together.

Our Lady, Health of the Sick, pray for us.

Don't forget God during the holidays . . .

2010-07-19T20:49:00.016+01:00

Of course I can't claim to have influenced the Holy Father in what he would say in his second Angelus address on Sunday, but it seems as if we are thinking along the same lines on this.

From the news agency, Rome Reports.

19th July, 2010. In his second Angelus address from Castel Gandolfo, Pope Benedict addressed pilgrims on the importance of prayer during their vacations.

Benedict XVI referred to the summer as a time when most are on holiday, including himself. He has suspended his audiences for a period.

He said summer holiday is a “favourable moment” to put first what is most important in life: listening to the Word of God.

“In today’s Gospel we are reminded of the need to rest from our daily labours, so that we may give time to the one thing that is truly necessary in our lives – listening to the word of God in attentive stillness.” Benedict XVI

Pope Benedict explained that everything will pass but the Word of God is eternal and gives meaning to our daily activities.

He said humans must work in domestic and professional activities, but need God because without love activities lose their value and give no joy.

As I said in our newsletter this week and repeated after each Sunday Mass; when you're making your preparations for your summer holidays and writing your check list;

tickets, foreign currency, sunscreen,

hotel reservations, cancel milk and papers,

arrange for someone to look after the dog/cat/hamster, etc. etc. . . .

Don't forget the most important thing -

CHECK THE LOCATION OF THE NEAREST CATHOLIC CHURCH AND

THE TIMES OF SUNDAY MASSES!

I wish you all a very happy, restful and refreshing summer break and I look forward to seeing you all as usual on the Sundays when you're not actually out of the parish.

Mass with Anointing of the Sick . . .

2010-07-18T19:46:00.012+01:00

Here are a couple of shots taken after our Mass with Anointing of the Sick yesterday (a little bit dark as they're taken with my phone camera).

It's always good to be able to arrange for some of our sick and housebound parishioners to come to Mass occasionally. They enjoy the outing and it helps to make them feel part of our parish family (which of course they are!). It also helps those of us who are at Mass every Sunday realised how fortunate we are to have this 'powerhouse of prayer' praying for our parish in their homes and care homes on a regular basis.

Of course there is the added bonus of being able to receive the Sacrament of the Sick alongside other parishioners.

We generally provide tea and cakes in the parish hall after the Mass which also gives people an opportunity to chat.

I'm very grateful to all who make this possible; those who kindly visit the housebound themselves in their homes each week and provided transport for them to come to our Mass yesterday and naturally, the ladies in the kitchen who provide the tea. And I mustn't forget to mention our organist and choir who came along to provide music for the Mass. I know it is all very much appreciated by our 'special guests'.

'Come to me all you who labour and are overburdened, and I will give you rest.'

2010-07-15T12:59:00.010+01:00

'Come to me all you who labour and are overburdened and I will give you rest.'

The words from the lips of Jesus in today's Gospel.

The heaviest weight that any of us carry is our sins. St Augustine comments, 'Jesus tells people who are sweating under heavy and useless burdens, "Come to me . . . and I will give you rest." Every time we confess our sins we are liberated, we are freed, because our sins, even venial sins, are repugnant to God and a burden for ourselves.'

Jesus invites us to take this yoke and exchange it for the burden of our sins; 'my yoke is easy . . .'

When we examine our conscience carefully we will find that we have much to confess. Let us ask Our Blessed Lady, refuge of sinners, to lead us regularly to the Sacrament of Confession.

Our Lady, refuge of sinners, pray for us.