14th June

ELEVENTH SUNDAY YEAR A

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

“Alone with none but thee, I journey on my way, what need I fear, when thou art near, O King of night and day? More safe am I within thy hand, than if a host did round me stand.” is a verse from a well-known hymn!

I thought this verse so very appropriate as our children celebrated their Holy Communion of the First Time this weekend. Although we are all accompanied one way or another, there is always that part of us that yearns for something more, that something for us is filled with the presence and love of God in the sacraments. The strongly relational Sacrament is that of the Eucharist, Holy Communion at Mass which can be repeated time and time again. It builds us and fills us in that part of being empty without God.

This last Friday we also celebrated the Feast of the Sacred Heart, a reminder that when we receive Holy Communion, we receive the love of the heart of Jesus. We receive Jesus himself, whole and entire.

As the Patronal Feast of my Congregation of Priests and Brothers, I ask your prayers for them and for their work which is international and thriving abroad. Our small band here in England continue to serve the dioceses of Brimingham and Nottingham.

Thank you to all who were able to attend the AGM last Sunday. It was good to see that the parish is alive and well, with many committed members who love and serve the church both here and around the deanery and even as far as the diocese in its needs. God bless you and thank you for your service.

Next Saturday there is a meeting for our young people, 6 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. in the parish hall. Pizza nourishment part way through! Again, thank you to all who help and support the work for our young people.

God bless and keep you safe in his care!

Father Anton s.c.j.