Third SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Year B
Sunday of the Word of God
The celebration of the Sunday of the Word of God is an invitation for a deeper appreciation of God’s word that it may dwell in us richly, (Colossians 3:16). In this way, we come to a deeper knowledge of Jesus who is the Eternal and Incarnate Word that took flesh (Jn 1: 1-14) and is broken for us at the tables of the Word and the Eucharist. The Church, as the Bride of Christ, (Ephesians 5:25-27) listens to Christ’s voice and follows him (Jn 10:27).
We are, therefore, called to be the bearers of the saving word, at least by the witness of our lives. Like the apostles called by Jesus in today’s gospel, we are to hear God’s word, and in following its promptings, be at its service.
We pray that all who proclaim God’s word in the church and our world today may be strengthened by the word they proclaim. Like the people of Nineveh in today’s first reading, may we be a people who hear and respond to the invitations of God’s word with all eagerness.
Happy Sunday Fr Chinedu.
BAPTISM PREPARATION
There will be a preparation session for parents who wish to have their baby baptised Sunday 4th February 2024 at 4pm in the church.
RECENTLY DECEASED
Please remember in your prayers those who have died recently: CRISTINA GIZZI. Her funeral Mass will be at 11.am on 23rd January, also Rebecca Martey, her Funeral Mass will take place here at 1.30pm on Friday 2nd February. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, rest in peace.
CONFIRMATION PROGRAMME 2024 PARENTS MEETING
Confirmation Parents meeting will be on Wednesday 24th January at 7.30pm in the Canon Smyth Parish Centre
Flower Arranging
We are very grateful to those who arrange the flowers in the church. However, we do need more flower arrangers to join the rota. No experience is required. If you would like to help, please speak to Emilia or one of the priests.
NEXT SUNDAY IS RACIAL JUSTICE SUNDAY
Next weekend is the day the church focuses on the need to oppose racism and pursue racial justice with renewed vigour. There will be a second collection next weekend after Mass.
Prayer for Racial Justice
God of our past, present and future,
You created each one of us in your image and likeness.
Help us to recognise you in each person
as we pray for an end to suffering caused by racism.
Lead us this day
to walk with one another,
pray with one another,
and work together
so that we will create a future based on justice and healing
and fulfil the hope you have for all peoples.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
FINANCE COMMITTEE
The Finance Committee meet on Thursday 1 February at 7.30pm in the Canon Smyth Parish Centre office.
St Vincent's Catholic Primary School - Vacancy
St Vincent's Primary School in Mill Hill is looking for a part time, temporary teacher for the Spring and Summer Terms 2024, for 2 days a week (Monday and one other day). Key Stage 2 experience required. If interested, please ring the school office for more details 020 8959 3417.
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. Thank you.
Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes
The Lourdes Pilgrimage takes place from 19th to 26th July. Join the pilgrimage as a pilgrim. Serve the pilgrimage by coming as a praying assisted pilgrim. Support assisted pilgrims by sponsoring the sick to join the pilgrimage and praying for them. For more information please go to https://rcdow.org.uk/pilgrimages/lourdes/ or contact the Pilgrimage Office on 020 7798 9173.