33rd Sunday of Year C
The disciples of Jesus were concerned about the future. Jesus had told them: ‘The time is near at hand’ and ‘the end is not so soon’. He was preparing them for his second coming, but we are still waiting. At the same time, we must always be ready. What Jesus did predict was that there would be famines, and wars, earthquakes and plagues. He prepared them for these disasters but promised he would be with them. He would put words into their mouths to enable them to defend themselves. For ourselves we can be confident that Jesus will remain with us through all our trials and as Jesus says, endurance will win us our lives.
World Day of the Poor
Today is the World Day of the Poor. This day was introduced by Pope Francis a couple of years ago so that we may pray and support the poor, locally and worldwide. Previously we have supported local foodbanks. This year we are selling 2020 calendars to help the Centre Point Charity for the homeless. The calendar has been designed by one of our First Communion candidates. Copies will be available after the 9.00 and 10.30 Masses.
Sick and Retired Priests Fund
Thank you for so generously supporting the Sick & Retired Priests’ Fund collection last weekend. Our priests give us years of dedicated service and it is only right that, together, we ensure they live out their days with the care they need. If you didn’t get the chance to donate, it’s not too late. Envelopes are still available in the back of the church and you can give online at www.rcdow.org.uk/donations. Thank you again. Please keep our sick and retired priests in your prayers.
Baptism Preparation
There will be a preparation session this afternoon (Sunday) for parents who wish to have their baby baptised at 4pm in the Dominic Room.
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.
Lately Dead
Please pray for MARY PERSSE OF Appletree Court, whose Funeral Mass will be on Thursday 28th November at 11.30am. Also BRIDGET O’FLYNN of Wood Court.
Year of the Word
This week’s quote: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4: 6-7
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.
Junior School Admissions Meeting
The Junior School Admissions Meeting
takes place (tomorrow (Monday) in the Annunciation School in the Meads. This is for parents who would like their child to be considered for a place in September 2020, including those currently in year 2 of the Infants School.
School Signing
Fr. Colin will be available for signing school forms in the Canon Smyth Parish Centre at the following times:
Thursday 21st November 3-4pm
Tuesday 26th November 3-4pm
Parish Bazaar
Many thanks to all who worked so hard at yesterday’s Parish Bazaar. Thanks to all who contributed items and to everybody who came along.
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
First Communion Programme
The children will be taking part in a Celebration Mass at 10.30.
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.
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.
Advent
The season of Advent begins on 1st December. Copies of the Booklet ‘Walk with Me’ will be available in the porch, price £1.00 also Advent Calendars for children which are free. There will be a day of Exposition from 9.30am, concluding with Benediction at 6.30pm on Friday 13th December. We invite you to sign up for a half-hour watching slot on the table at the back of the church.
Reconciliation Service with several priests available for confession will be on Wednesday 18th December at 7.30pm.
Bereavement Mass
On Friday we have our Bereavement Mass at 7.30pm. Refreshments will be available afterwards in the Canon Smyth Parish Centre.
Four:12 Sleepout in aid of Emmaus UK
The youth of the parish will be taking part in a sponsored sleep out on Friday 29th November, in aid of Emmaus UK. If any young people in year 7 or above would like to take part, please email four12.oak@gmail.com or call 07732 392 749 by Wednesday 27th November. To sponsor the group, please visit www.justgiving.com/Four12-2019. Many thanks for your support!
Winter Wonderland 2019
The Parish’s annual winter get-together takes place on Saturday 7th December; doors open at 7:15pm. Enjoy a 3-course meal and an evening of festivities. Tickets will be priced at £8 for adults, £5 for 5-16-year-olds and free for under 5s and they will be on sale from next weekend. If you would like to reserve tickets in advance, please email four12.oak@gmail.com. Please note that all tickets must be paid for and collected by Sunday 1st December; there will be no tickets available for purchase or collection on the door.
Mary’s Meals Thank you for your support I am delighted to say that the parish managed to give 870 kg of unwanted clothes; there were also cash donations of £607.25 making a total contribution of £1,094.45. The amount raised will feed 78 children who will not only get fed one good, nutritious meal every school day for a whole year, but they will get an education too.
Parish Council
The Parish Council meet on Thursday at 7.45pm in the presbytery.
