7th September

Twenty Third Sunday Year C

As we begin our new academic year, let us renew our commitment to the family of God, the family of the Church. We are God’s people, the sheep of his flock. He loves us and has given us life, for us to live it well and one day be with him in the reward of eternal life.

Thank you to everyone who kept things ticking over while I was away. All three supply priests expressed their thanks for the way they were welcomed and looked after. The care you gave and the ability you showed is a positive reflection on our church communities to take responsibility for the church as both building and people. It is a good and positive sign for the future well-being of St Werburgh and St John the Baptist.

I ask you all to pray for the success of the Parish Mission which is to take place Friday October 17th through to Sunday afternoon 19th. The Zion community will lead the event with time spent in the school before the main event. A good deal of time, effort and finance is being invested in this event, let it not be in vain!

Further news, thank you for the donation given to Ashley Parish from a legacy to the tune of £1500. Progress is going well on the external renewal of the church. It should look very smart and clean once finished. Work will also be starting next week on the externals of the church and presbytery in Clayton. This latter work is preventative to preserve the eves, woodwork, and window frames.

I’ve had several requests for the starting date of JOURNEY IN FAITH. We begin Tuesday evening September 23rd at 8 p.m. following evening Mass at 7.15 p.m. All are welcome to attend, people wanting to update their faith and knowledge, those interested in the faith, and those wanting to become Catholics. On completion of the course there is no obligation; the journey is for one’s personal faith.

Youth Group will start Saturday 27th September 6 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. for year 4 and older. There is also the Fearless Retreat at Alton Castle 7-9th November. Contact Clare O’Hara 07929036596.

Take care and God bless,

Father Anton s.c.j.