Advent is a word derived from “coming” and marks for us preparing for the coming of Christ. It marks the beginning of a new year in the church as our liturgy /worship , with the Gospel of St Matthew celebrates the life of Jesus, Son of God, and his message for the world, It starts with us as we prepare by reviewing our relationship to Christ and ourselves. It is a wake up time urging us to examine our sense of belonging and to take the opportunities we discover. This year Advent has 4 full weeks. Let us use them.
Mass Schedule
- Advent Sunday Mass Week 1
- Sunday Mass 10am Intention for the People of the Parish
- Wednesday St Andrew,Apostle,Patron of Scotland
- Mass 9.30am Intention for Eileen Barber RIP ( O;Neill Familly )
- Friday Advent Weekday Mass
- Mass 9,30am Intention for deceased members of the Duncliffe Family
- Saturday Mass HMP LEWES
- Advent Sunday Week 2 Mass 10am
The Sacrament of Reconciliation
Advent is one of the two penitential seasons when we are encouraged to avail ourselves of the grace of the this sacrament by examining our consciences and making a confession of “what we have done and what we have failed to do”. Arrangements are in hand for times when numbers of priest confessors will be available at services. Next Saturday the sacrament will be available in our Church from 11.30 -12.30pm. As always by arrangement Fr John can be available.
Preparing for Holy Communion
The programme of preparation commences next Sunday after Mass.
Church Lighting
The necessary lighting is now in working order.
Advent Reading
You can find material to assist your journey through Advent at our useful websites and the December Word of Life.
Clergy Recollection
On Tuesday clergy have a time of recollection at Worth Abbey. It always helps to know parishioners are praying for their priests.
The Advent Wreath
Symbolises for us God has no beginning and end, reminding us of his love which is also unending. The first candle is the prophet’s candle as we focus on hope and the promise of the future.
Advent Hymn to Mary
Mother of Christ; hear thou thy people’s cry
Star of the deep and portal of the sky
Mother of him who from nothing made
Sinking we strive and call for thee to aid
Oh by that joy which Gabriel brought to thee
Thou virgin first and last let us thy mercy see.
St Thomas More Church, Patcham, Brighton 