"He who sings, prays twice . . "

Like many parishes, we are blessed at St Ann's to have a very good, enthusiastic and dedicated choir, including some instrumentalists.

This morning at the 10 O'clock Mass they sung for the last Sunday Mass before their well-earned break during the summer holidays. Some of them will be heading off to Lourdes this coming week with our Diocesan Pilgrimage to swell the ranks of the diocesan choir singing at the various liturgies that take place at Lourdes during the pilgrimage.

I would like to record my appreciation, and that of the parish, for all that they add to our worship throughout the year; for their time and the commitment that they give so generously and with such good humour. Most of the parish are probably not aware of the hours spent at choir practices and courses attended in addition to singing, not only at the 10am Mass, but at Confirmations, weddings, funerals and other occasions.

We shall miss your singing of course, but we'll put up with it knowing it is only temporary; you deserve a break.

Just make sure you come back in September!

By the way, I know that Flick is always on the lookout for new choir members and instrumentalists. You don't need to be a professional singer; the main qualifications are enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. Have a word with Flick if you are at all interested. I can assure you of a very warm welcome.