TAKEHOMENEWS SUNDAY 13 SPETEMBER
God’s Compassion and Christian Forgiveness
This Sunday’s responsorial psalm tells us that “Our God is compassionate, gracious…..and rich in mercy.” As it were, it sets the tone for this Sunday’s Liturgy. Knowing God’s unfailing love is the foundation of every authentic Christian response, such as forgiving others. This knowledge strengthens us and enables us to be patient with each other, overcome resentment, and courageously tap into the power of forgiveness. Being like God would involve striving daily to become a little bit more compassionate, gracious, and merciful.
In this Sunday’s first reading (Sirach 27:30-28:7), the Lord tells us to forgive our neighbours so that we may find forgiveness. In freeing others through forgiveness, we truly accept and show gratitude for God’s forgiveness of our own sins and failings. In the end, our forgiveness and freedom are linked to others’ because “The life of each of us has its influence on others (Rm 14:7-9).
Like the servant in this Sunday’s Gospel, whose overwhelming debts were cancelled by the master, we too have been forgiven so much by God. It is only fair that, in gratitude, we desire, pray, and strive to forgive others as well.
However, forgiveness is possible only by God’s help. We pray for the grace to receive God’s love and forgiveness in our individual hearts, so that, strengthened by the same, we may strive to become more loving, compassionate and merciful to others. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen
Happy Sunday
Fr Chinedu
RECENTLY DECEASED
JAMES (JIM) MURPHY. His funeral will be on Friday 25 September at 1pm. May his soul and the souls of all the departed rest in peace.
RCIA REGISTRATION
For anyone who is thinking of becoming a Catholic or baptised adult Catholics who have not received the other Sacraments, the RCIA programme will be starting in October. Please ask one of the priests for an application form.
BAPTISM PREPARATION
The next preparation session for parents who wish to have their baby baptised is Sunday, 4th October at 4pm in the church.
INTERNATIONL MASS – SUNDAY 27 SEPTEMBER (12 NOON)
The Parish joyfully invites everyone to the Annunciation Parish International Mass on Sunday, 27 September 2026 at 12 noon. This celebration brings together our diverse cultures and traditions as one community of faith.
Parishioners are encouraged to come wearing national attire or traditional dress. Please bring flags and flaglettes, especially for the children who will join the processional at the beginning of Mass.
Those who wish to participate in the multi‑lingual Bidding Prayers are invited to speak to any of our Priests. Your language and cultural heritage are a blessing to our liturgy.
After the Mass, all are welcome to gather at the Canon Smyth Parish Centre Main Hall for a shared community lunch. Please bring a native dish or dessert to share. The Parish will provide drinks for everyone. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy fellowship and celebrate the richness of our cultures.
We are also seeking volunteers to assist with setting up the Parish Hall before the shared lunch, the aftercare and clean‑up following the event. If you are available to help, please speak to any of our Stewards.
Thank you and we look forward to see you at our International Mass
ST JAMES’ CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL OPEN EVENING EVENT
Thursday 1 October 2026 Preparation for Year 7 Intake for 2027/2028 We would like to welcome you to St James' Catholic High School to experience our educational setting, take a tour of the school and meet our staff and pupils. This event takes place on Thursday 1 October from 5:30pm.
There will be parking on the school site at the end of Great Strand NW9 5PE.
HOME MISSION SUNDAY
Next week their will be a second collection
GOOD COUNCIL NATIONAL DAYS OF PRAYER & FASTING
For the end of abortion and euthanasia in this country. Monday 28th September, Tuesday 27th October, Tuesday 17th November and Monday 7th December. For more information go to their website: www.goodcounselnetwork.com
SANCTUARY LAMP SPONSORSHIP SCHEME
"Keep a flame burning." (Exodus 27:20)
Parishioners are invited to sponsor the Sanctuary Lamp for one week: In memory of a loved one, For a special intention Or In thanksgiving for blessings received.
Suggested Donation: £10 Per intention. Two Intentions per week.
The Sanctuary Lamp burns continuously before the Blessed Sacrament from Saturday to Saturday and serves as a reminder of Christ's presence among us. Sponsorship of the lamp is both a beautiful spiritual offering and a practical way to support parish funds.
Bookings for October 2026 onwards are now open. The diary is available in the repository/parish office. Please see the new posters displayed around the church for further details Thank you for your support and generosity.
LORETO COLLEGE OPEN EVENING
More details are available on the school website www.loreto.herts.sch.uk
FOODBANK FOR THE COMMUNITY
Non – perishable food is required for the foodbank, please leave your donations in one of the marked boxes in the church porch. Many thanks for your contributions to help families in need.
Comments