The Season is rushing by, and Thursday week (May 9th) will be Ascension Thursday, a Holyday of Obligation. We have another image used by Jesus, one understood by the Chosen People, and one we can easily grasp. It reminds us to find strength by adhering to Jesus, like a branch attached to its stem. Every now and then it is good to ask ourselves how we are developing our understanding of the Faith and what it means for our sense of membership. There is a regular reminder as we pray the Eucharistic Prayer with parts such as “that we may become on body one spirit in Christ”, in union of mind and heart with Pope Francis and our shepherd, Bishop Richard.
‘Intricately Woven By The Lord’ – from the Bishops of England & Wales
A Pastoral reflection on gender by the Bishops. With all the media comments and hype, a calm informative document to inform the discussions in which we may be involved, to read please click here.
Mass Schedule
- Sunday 28th April 10am 5th Sunday of Easter
- Monday 29th April, St Mary’s House St Catherine of Siena (Patron of Europe)
- Wednesday 9:30am St Joseph The Worker
- Friday 3rd May 9:30am St Philip & St James (Apostles)
- Sunday 5th May 10am 6th Sunday of Easter
Praying For Vocations
We continue praying for responses to vocations to Priesthood. Praying for the families from which will come future candidates.
Do you ever talk about his at home? Do you ever pray about it ?
Please equip yourself with a prayer card and a leaflet.
Read what Pope Francis says to us here.
SVP & CAFOD
In preparation for a General Election, the SVP and CAFOD are to equip Catholics to question candidates about tackling issues of poverty and injustice.
CAFOD’S SUDAN CRISIS APPEAL
You can read more about this appeal and donate here. You can also donate cash to the wall box in the entrance.
Catch Up
Peter Cropp has received the Benemerenti Medal for his long commitment to the SVP, including managing of gift aid in the Parish. Well done! There was a tribute to Hilda Searle’s involvement in the Parish, her charitable activities with the SVP and her fidelity to the Mass. Thank you to those able to attend her Requiem.
Memorial Bench
The Family of Rita and Melville Smith RIP have kindly donated a bench for the courtyard in their memory. It is awaiting a plaque to dedicate it.
Polling Station
On Thursday it is the election for the Police & Crime Commissioner. Remember to bring Photo ID when you come to vote.
Saints of the Week
- St Catherine of Siena who was influential in bringing the Pope back from Avignon to Rome
- St Joseph the Worker, the carpenter who reminds us of the value of work
- SS Philip and James – Apostles
New Lectionary to be introduced from Advent 2024
From 1st December this year a new lectionary will be introduced in England and Wales. More information about this can be found here
St George Patron of England
St George appeared to have received very little publicity this week.
Leader, now on earth no longer
Soldier of the eternal King
Victor in the fight for heaven
We thy loving praise sing
Great Saint George our patron
Help us, in the conflict be thou nigh,
Help us in that daily battle,
Where each one must live or die.
No. 414
St Thomas More Church, Patcham, Brighton 