As 2022 ends the news of the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has been announced. His funeral will take place on Thursday 5th January. The second Pope to visit this country, a visit which at the time seemed ill advised, on the contrary was met with large crowds and gratitude. In particular we will recall his address in Westminster Hall and his Beatification of John Henry Newman in Birmingham. Our Bishop has issued a statement and others may be read at the website of the Catholic bishops of England and Wales – please click here. Masses for the repose of his soul will be offered.
Bishop Richard’s statement on Pope Benedict XVI
The Diocese is deeply saddened at the death of His Holiness Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI this morning.
Speaking earlier today Bishop Richard Moth said:
“We are deeply grateful for the life and service of Pope Emeritus Benedict. While we mourn his loss, we are thankful for his steadfast witness and legacy.”
“His firm resolve during eight years of papal ministry saw the Pope Emeritus broaden opportunities for dialogue with people and groups outside of the Catholic Church. More locally, many in our community will have been touched by his gentle presence during his visit to these shores in 2010, not least in his meeting with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the time of prayer in Hyde Park and the Beatification of St. John Henry Newman.”
“Masses for the repose of the Pope’s soul will be offered across the churches of our Diocese in the coming days. We entrust Pope Benedict to the Father of all mercies and prayer for the repose of his soul.”
“Please remember Pope Francis in your prayers also, in his continuing Petrine Ministry.”
New Year’s Day
We pray for God’s Blessings for the Year ahead and offer thanksgiving for the graces of last year
Mary, Mother of God
We continue to reflect on the motherhood of Mary. Mother of Christ, Mother of the Saviour, Mother of the Church. Using the greetings of Gabriel and Elizabeth we seek her prayer now and at the hour of our death.
The Epiphany of The Lord
Friday 6th January is observed as a Holy Day when Jesus is revealed or manifested to the Wise ones from the East. Mass will be celebrated in St Thomas More’s at 9.30am.
Mass Schedule
- Sunday Mass 10am
- Wednesday Christmastide Mass Intention for the repose of the Soul of Pope Emeritus Benedict.
- Thursday -in Rome Funeral Mass for Pope Emeritus Benedict.
- Friday THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD. Mass 9.30am
- Sunday The Baptism of the Lord Mass 10am after this Mass there will be a 100+ draw, a social gathering with a glass of something
Holy God
We place ourselves into your hands
Bless us and care for us
Look kindly upon us and give us peace
May you have a peaceful, healthy, and fulfilling year.
Fr. John
St Thomas More Church, Patcham, Brighton 