2022 will be remembered as the year Advent has 4 complete weeks giving us the opportunity to prepare well for the Feasts ahead. As Vestment –( Bishop Richard reminds us in his weekly Message this Sunday is Rejoicing Sunday, marked by the lighting of the Rose coloured candle and the possibility of a rose coloured -if we had one. It does mean we are halfway through our preparations and now we have 2 complete works to reflect on who it is we are welcoming by our reflection on the Scriptures , our praying and practising the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion – not forgetting participating in the Carol Services, the Schools and next Sunday in St Mary’s. John the Baptist is the central figure in this Sunday’s Gospel and he seems uncertain whether Jesus is really the One he and others expected .This is because Jesus is not taking violent action because of the oppression and occupation of the Romans. He has to be reassured and receives back an answer. God’s love is to be revealed in Jesus. “happy is the one who does not lose faith in me.”
The Sacrament of Reconciliation
See the noticeboard for Advent Services around the deanery.
Holy Communion for the Housebound
In these last 2 weeks Holy Communion will be brought to the Nursing and Care Homes in the Parish and to the homes of parishioners who are not able to join us in Church. If you know of someone like that please do let Fr John know – 01273 563017 – if out please do leave a message.
Mass schedule for the third week of Advent
- Sunday Mass 10am
- Tuesday St Lucy Mass 9.30am
- Friday Advent Mass 9.30am
- 4th Sunday in Advent Mass 10am
Carol Service
Sunday 18th December 6pm at St Mary’s.
Singers from St Mary’s & St Thomas More’s and parishioners gather for a Service of Carols & Readings. Retiring Collection in aid of Mary’s meals & the Catholic Children’s Crisis Fund. Mulled wine & Mince pies in the Hall to follow. Not to be missed.
The Word of Life for December
“Trust in the Lord forever, for in the Lord God you have an everlasting rock “ Isaiah. A leaflet to help you reflect on this Scripture and lead you to prayer.
Christmas Masses
- HMP Lewes 24th December 8.30am
- Christmas Mass St Thomas More 24th December 6pm
- Christmas Day Mass St Thomas More 25th December 10am
Advent Chant
Rejoice in the lord always: God is at hand
Joy and gladness for al who seek the Lord
Wai for the Lord whose day is near
Wait for the lord : keep watch take heart
St Thomas More Church, Patcham, Brighton 