32nd Sunday of Year C
As we approach the end of the Church’s Year, we turn our minds towards the resurrection as we look forward to the things to come. In the Gospel, Jesus talks to the Sadducees about the resurrection of the dead. The Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection but Jesus himself was to rise from the dead. He invites us to prepare for everlasting life by conducting good lives.
Sick and Retired Priests Fund
Today’s second collection is for the Sick & Retired Priests’ Fund. Please give generously and help ensure our sick and older priests are financially supported, having given us a lifetime of dedicated service. They have baptised us, welcomed us into the church, and offered comfort and prayer at times of sorrow. Now we have a chance to give back and ensure they have peace of mind during their senior years. The fund is used to cover their essential needs at a time when they may be facing failing health and declining mobility. Your gift could help ensure our sick and retired priests have the housing, care and support they need. Please give generously using the envelopes in the church. You can also donate online at www.rcdow.org.uk/donations. Thank you in advance for your kindness.
Lately Dead
Please pray for JACQUELINE VINCELLI of Angus Gardens, whose funeral Mass will be on Tuesday 12 November at 1.00pm. Also MARTIN PATTON who has recently died.
World Day of the Poor
Next Sunday is the World Day of the Poor. This day was introduced by Pope Francis a couple of years ago to pray and support the poor. Locally and worldwide. In previous years, we have supported local foodbanks. This year we will be selling 2020 calendars . A 7year old parishioner currently preparing for First Holy Communion, has designed this calendar. Copies will be available after the 9.00 and 10.30 Masses next weekend. Proceeds will go to Centre Point, a charity for the homeless.
Parish Safeguarding Representative
Frank Henry, who has been our Parish Safeguarding Representative for many years has decided to step down from this role. We thank him for his dedication over so many years. This means that we are looking for a parishioner to take his place, or possibly more than one who could share this responsibility. The Parish Safeguarding Representative (PSR) has a special responsibility for promoting good and safe practices in all activities involving children, young people and adults at risk within the parish. This will involve making referrals to he Safeguarding Co-Ordinator where necessary. The PSR is the link between the parish and the diocese. Training will be provided so that they are familiar with policies and procedures. The PSR gas a responsibility for facilitating the DBS Disclosure procedure at parish level to ensure that everybody who is required to go through the procedure does so. If you are interested in taking on this role or would like to know more, please speak to Father Colin.
Parish Council
The Parish Council meet on Thursday 21 November at 7.45pm in the Presbytery.
Blessing of Graves
This afternoon the Blessing of Graves will take place at Hendon Cemetery at 2.30pm.
Baptism Preparation
There will be a meeting for parents who wish to have their baby baptised next Sunday, 17th November, at 4.pm in the Dominic Room.
Year of the Word
This week’s quotes: Let he who is without sin cast the first stone. John 8:7
Cast your burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee; he will never suffer the righteous to be moved. Psalm 55 verse 22
Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven Matthew 5:3
Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today and for ever. Hebrews 13 verse 8
First Communion Programme
The children have a session today (Sunday) at 9.15 and next Sunday will be taking part in a Celebration Mass at 10.30.
Junior School Admissions Meetings
The Junior School Admissions Meeting is on Monday 18th November at 7.pm. in the school in the Meads. This is for parents who wish their child to be considered for a place in September 2020, including those who are currently in year 2 of the Infants School.
Weddings in 2020
Couples who wish to be married in this church next year or require us to prepare them for their marriage elsewhere, please get in touch with Fr Colin.
Bereavement Mass
The Bereavement Mass takes place on Friday 22nd November at 7.30pm., followed by refreshments in the Canon Smyth Parish Centre.
Confirmation 2020
Those who are currently in year 10 or above are invited to apply to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. Application forms are available in the porch and should be returned by 15th December at the latest. There will be seven sessions for the candidates starting in February and there will be a meeting for parents on Wednesday 29th January at 7.30pm. Bishop John Sherrington will be coming on Friday 22 May to administer the Sacrament
Youngsters Choir
Children and Youngsters are being invited to come and join for a new Youngster's Choir Initiative. Before we get going with it, we would need a few practice sessions with them. The practice will take place in the church on all Sundays from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Please support this initiative by sending the youngsters for the practice sessions and thus helping in building an amazing choir. For any queries, please speak to Fr.Colin or contact Nancy Joseph - 07459436414. We look forward to meeting you.
Pilgrimage Holy Land
14-21st May to the Holy Land. 4 places left £1333 per person in shared accommodation. If interested or for more information please contact Fr Carlos at Bishop Stortford Parish 01279 654063.
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee meet on Thursday at 7.30pm in the Dominic Room.
Parish Bazaar
On Saturday we have our Parish Bazaar between 12noon and 3pm in the Canon Smyth Parish Centre You are invited to bring along any unwanted gifts for the tombola, bottles for the bottle stall, books, CD’s and donations for the raffle prizes, as well as tins and cakes. toys, face painting, Santa’s grotto as well as refreshments and other surprises. Children are invited to prepare a poster to advertise the event. Please do not donate clothes, blankets/duvets or electrical goods. Help will be needed on the evening before the event to set up stalls and also on the day. Please contact Frances 07743355748 or Linda 07884046118.
Remembrance Sunday
Today is Remembrance Sunday when we pray for all those who have died at war. There will be a 2-minute silence at approximately 11am during the 10.30 Mass.
Advent Day of Prayer
Begin the season of Advent and new liturgical year with fresh spiritual energy in the tranquil Niland Centre. We welcome Fr John Hemer for our annual reflection day on Thursday, 28 November (from 10am with Holy Mass at 2.30 pm). Refreshments provided (from 9.30am). Please bring a packed lunch. Suggested donation £15. Rosary Priory, 93 Elstree Road, Bushey Heath, Herts. WD23 4EE.
Details and registrations: 07746 707 247 or events@nilandconferencecentre.co.uk.
Thank you
For your very Generous response to World Mission Sunday which raised £413.30.
Also for your very Generous support for CAFOD which raised £712.90.
Aid to the Church in Need
Thank you for healing the wounds for those who suffer for Christ today. Your faith and compassion reach around the world to the broken Body of Christ. We gratefully acknowledge your Mass donation of £270.00 and the Masses are being arranged accordingly by us at Aid to the Church in Need.