We Have A Pope

The Media have kept us in touch with the Election of a new Pope in succession to Pope Francis RIP. We give thanks for the gift of a Shepherd for the Universal Church. He is the 267th to follow Peter the Apostle. He is the Bishop of Rome, the head of the College of Bishops. The Vicar of Christ and the Shepherd of the Universal Church. A priest of the Augustinian Order, a missionary in Peru building up the Particular Churches or Dioceses along with other priests of the Order such as the ones in Chulucanas. At every Mass along with our Bishop Richard, as Your Servant Leo our Pope, he will be remembered.

Bishop Richard’s Weekly Message

Dear brothers and sisters,

Through our baptism, each and every one of us is called to be a “Pilgrim of Hope.” With eyes fixed on the person of Jesus, our minds and hearts are opened to His call to us. This Sunday, the Church throughout the world reflects on the particular calls to priesthood and to religious life. I ask you to join with me in praying that those who are called to give their lives in service as priests, and those called to religious life, may be truly open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.

Fr Tristan Cranfield, our Vocations Director, has provided an easy-to-use resource that will support our prayer for vocations to priesthood, in particular, during these coming weeks leading to Pentecost. The vocational call is heard in prayer and, so very often, in quietness. Let us all give a little extra time to prayer in these coming weeks for those whom God is calling, for our seminary students and for the families of our Diocese – that our homes will always be places where an openness to God’s call is nurtured.

Pray, too, for the priests, deacons and religious of our Diocese, in thanksgiving for their wonderful ministry, example, and service to us all.

With every blessing,

+Richard

Statement On The Election Of Pope Leo XIV

The Diocese of Arundel & Brighton welcomes yesterday’s election of Pope Leo XIV, the 267th Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church. Responding to the news, Bishop Richard said:‍

“We give thanks that under the guidance of the Holy Spirit the Cardinals have elected Pope Leo XIV.

“Pope Leo brings to the office of the Holy Father considerable experience as a bishop and pastor including in Chulucanas, so closely associated with our diocese, together with his more recent service as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops. His prayer for peace in his first words from the balcony at St Peter’s will resonate with Catholics and all people of good will.

“This is a significant moment for the Catholic Church and for the world, and we offer our prayers for the Holy Father as he begins his Pontificate.”

‍Pope Leo, the first Pope from the United States of America, was born Robert Provost, on 14 September 1955 in Chicago, Illinois. In 1977, he entered the novitiate of the Order of Saint Augustine in the province of Our Lady of Good Counsel, in Saint Louis. On 29 August 1981 he made his solemn vows. He studied at the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago, receiving a diploma in theology.

At the age of 27 he was sent by the Order to Rome to study canon law at the Pontifical Saint Thomas Aquinas University (Angelicum). He received priestly ordination on 19 June 1982. He received his licentiate in 1984, and was then sent to work in the mission of Chulucanas, in Piura, Peru (1985-1986); the Diocese of Chulucanas.

In 1987, he was awarded a doctorate with the thesis: “The role of the local prior in the Order of St Augustine”. In the same year he was elected director of vocations and director of the missions of the Augustinian province of “Mother of Good Counsel” of Olympia Fields, Illinois.

On 3 November 2014, Pope Francis appointed him apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, elevating him to the dignity of bishop and assigning him the titular diocese of Sufar. He was ordained a bishop on 12 December, the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, in the cathedral of his diocese, and was created a Cardinal by Pope Francis on 30 September 2023.‍

‍Bishop Richard will celebrate Mass for the Holy Father’s intentions at the Confirmation Mass at Arundel Cathedral this Sunday at 2pm, with additional Masses celebrated across the Diocese.

Good Shepherd Sunday

During May we are encouraged to pray for Vocations especially for the Priesthood.

As Catholics, we know that God has called each of us by name and that everyone has a vocation; some to the married life, some to the priesthood, some to religious life, and some to the single life. This year, in the light of the Pastoral Plan, The Word Who is Life: The Call to Mission, the whole Diocese is invited to come together for four weeks of prayer to the Holy Spirit to grant us a missionary spirit, through the raising up of new vocations to all walks of life in the Church.

Foremost among these vocations, we need priests. The priesthood is a special gift to the Church, through which Christ is always present to pour out His Spirit on His people through the holy sacraments.

It’s not always easy to know if God is calling you to priesthood. Our diocesan Days of Discernment aim to explore some simple tools for finding out, with time for prayer and an opportunity to learn more about the beautiful vocation of the diocesan priest, along with other men following the same path. Certainty is not required: the day may just be a chance for you to start thinking, to pray, and to ask questions. Our next day is on Saturday 10 May in Crawley, led by Fr Nicholas Harden. If you are a Catholic, unmarried man who is considering this vocation and would like to attend, please contact our Vocations Director Fr Tristan Cranfield.

Mass Schedule

Sunday 11th May 10am 4th Easter (Thanksgiving for Pope Leo XIV)
Monday 12th May 8:15am St Mary’s House
Wednesday 14th May 9:30am St Matthias (Apostle)
Friday 16th May 9:30am
Sunday 18th May 10am 5th Easter

Migrants’ Mass

Sunday May 11^th St Joseph’s Church Elm Grove. 5.30am Bishop Richard Presiding. All welcome. See Poster.

Regina Caeli

The Son whom you merited to bear, Alleluia
Has risen as he said, Alleluia
Pray for us to God. Alleluia

(Eastertide anthem to Mary, replacing the Angelus)

The Third Week Of Easter

After the funeral rites for Pope Francis and the nine days of prayer remembering him, all of us who form the Church are now praying for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in discerning who is to be the next Bishop of Rome, Chief Shepherd of the Universal Church, and Pope. As we turn to the back page of the Memorial Card and pray for the Holy Spirit’s Presence with the Cardinals in Conclave we join together at our Masses and prayers with this great intention. There is a precedent in a feast next week when the Apostles prayed for someone to fill the vacancy cf. Acts 1 vv 24 -30 (St Matthias). Maybe by Friday we will have seen the white smoke.

Bishop Richard’s Weekly Message

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Writing in the Acts of the Apostles, St Luke records St Peter’s words to the Sanhedrin: “We are witnesses to all this.” This is as true for us as it was for the Apostles. The history of the Church gives us so many examples of martyrs and confessors of faith who put their witnessing to the Resurrection before all else. We are their successors and we share their responsibility. This may seem a daunting task but, like them, we are guided by the Holy Spirit.

At this time when the Cardinals are preparing for the conclave, let us pray for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon them, in their solemn task of electing the next successor of St Peter.

I ask your prayers, too, for the young people of our Diocese who, over the coming weeks, will receive the gifts of Holy Spirit in the Sacrament of Confirmation. This is an important moment for each of them, as they take this very significant step on the path of discipleship. It is also a time of celebration for the whole Diocese, as we rejoice in their openness to the life of the Gospel and pray that they will take their place in the mission of the Church.

With every blessing,

+ Richard

The Conclave

This commences on Wednesday 7th May when the Cardinals celebrate Mass and then move into the Sistine Chapel to commence the voting. Should you have seen the fictional film Conclave remember it is not the portrayal of what will be happening in Rome this week! For regular updates tune into our website – USEFUL WEBSITES -VATICAN NEWS.

Mass Schedule

Sunday 4th May 10am (Int. Pope Francis RIP and the people of the parish)
Monday 5th May 8:15am St Mary’s House (Int. For the election of a Pope)
Wednesday 7th May 9:30am (Int. For the election of a Pope)
Friday 9th May 9:30am (Int. For the election of a Pope)
Sunday 11th May 10am 4th Sunday of Easter (Int. For the people of the parish)

Preparing For Holy Communion 2026

Meeting for parents whose children are to be prepared for Holy Communion and Reconciliation form the Parish Communities of St Thomas More’s & St Mary’s Church. In St Mary’s 7pm. See Poster.

Migrants’ Mass

The Catholic Parish of Brighton and Citizens UK are arranging a Mass for Migrants on Sunday 11^th May in St Joseph’s Church, Elm Grove at 5.30pm. Bishop Richard will be presiding. See poster.

The Brighton Festival

The annual festival is under way with an amazing variety of artistic talents and couple with these the Fringe Festival adds even more variety

With Open Houses and much more. Enjoy!

The Word Of Life

The Scripture text and commentary Leaflet for May is now available for you to help you focus your prayer. A very appropriate text put to the first Pope.

Queen Of The May

Bring flowers of the rarest
Bring blossoms the fairest
From garden and woodland ,and hillside and dale
Our full hearts are swelling
Our glad voices telling
The praise of the loveliest flower of the vale
O Mary, we crown thee with blossoms today
Queen of the Angels and Queen of the May

(Traditional)

The Second Sunday Of Easter

The Church has witnessed the dying of its Pastor and Shepherd, Pope Francis. I heard the news just before celebrating Easter Monday Mass and so missed his name in the Eucharistic Prayer but prayed for his eternal rest. We will soon begin our prayer for the guidance of the Holy Spirit for the election of a new Pope, Bishop of Rome and Supreme Pastor.

Bishop Richard’s Weekly Message

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Thomas professes his faith in the Risen Lord, following his time of doubt. This is a moment of greatest encouragement for us all – if we have times of doubt, the Risen Lord takes doubt away and fills us with His love. The closeness that we see between Thomas and Jesus is the same closeness that we are invited to share with the Lord. We say, with Thomas, “My Lord and my God.”

This close relationship to which Jesus calls us is an expression of His Divine Mercy – that we celebrate especially on this Divine Mercy Sunday.

The theme of mercy has been a particular mark of Pope Francis’ Petrine ministry. On so many occasions, he called us to deepen our love for the Word of God. From reflection on the Scriptures, he called us be merciful, to care for our brothers and sisters and for the world that is God’s gift to us. In Fratelli tutti, in particular, through reflection on the parable of the Good Samaritan, he called us to a real and active love for others – for in them we see the person of Christ.

On Saturday, as the mortal remains of Pope Francis are laid to rest in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, let us pray that Mary’s Son, who calls us all to be His, will welcome Pope Francis into the Kingdom after his life of devoted service to the Church and the world.

With every blessing,

+ Richard

Bishop Richard’s Message On The Death Of Pope Francis

Pope Francis died at 7.35am on Easter Monday aged 88, with his death announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber. The Holy Father was elected to the papacy on 13 March 2013, and was the 265th successor of St Peter.

In a statement issued on Monday morning, Bishop Richard said: “As we mourn the death of Pope Francis, we can also be deeply grateful for his life of service to the Universal Church. Bringing his experience of the Church in South America, informed and enlightened by his life as a member of the Society of Jesus, he called us all to simplicity of life, a renewed openness to the gift of mercy, a deeper understanding of the dignity of the human person and a respect and care for creation. The work of the Synod, that has marked the more recent years of his papacy, is sure to inform to the life and mission of the Church in the proclamation of the Gospel and his faithful dedication, even as he lived with failing health, is an example to us all.”

Bishop Richard offered a public Mass for the Repose of the Pope’s Soul on Tuesday morning at Arundel Cathedral. Speaking during the homily, he said: “I was in Rome with a number of diocesan deacons as part of the Holy Year celebrations, when Pope Francis first went into hospital in February. We prayed for the Holy Father during his time in hospital, and then came the news that he had returned once more to the Vatican. Pope Francis remained seriously ill; those of you who might have watched the Urbi et Orbi Easter Message on Easter Sunday would have seen just how much he was struggling and yet all of us, I’m sure, were shocked and surprised yesterday morning when the news came that the Holy Father had died…

“The Pope’s last great letter, Dilexit nos – published late last year – was about the love that we see in the Sacred Heart of Jesus. I rather wonder whether history will look back and see Dilexit Nos as the greatest of the Pope’s encyclical letters, because it calls us to the very heart of things; to the love that we see in the person of Jesus Christ – a love that we experience in His Word, a love that we encounter in the Eucharist, a love that we are called as His followers to share with our brothers and sisters across the world that ‘the merciful love of the Lord fills the Earth’.

“We saw the Pope simply living out a life of service on Easter Sunday morning, when as a very sick man – I suspect, knowing that his days were numbered – he insisted on being with the people of God. Giving us – each and every one of us – the Easter Blessing.” The Pope’s funeral will be celebrated on Saturday 26 April at 9am (UK time) and will be broadcast live on most major TV channels and on the Vatican’s YouTube channel. Following Mass in St Peter’s Square, the Pope’s body will be transferred to the Papal Basilica of St Mary Major for burial.

How to read and watch reactions to the death of Pope Francis

Cardinal Nichols’ Thought For The Day can be heard here

The website of The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales contains more links

The live feed of the official Vatican website can be found here

The BBC amongst other broadcasters will be covering the funeral of Pope Francis from 8:30am on Saturday 26th April.

Blessed Carlo Acutis

You may have noticed more young people queuing to view the coffin. This because Sunday is described as the Jubilee Day for Teenagers, and he was to be canonised this Sunday. This is now delayed until we have a new Pope.

Mass Schedule

Sunday 27th April 10am Second Sunday of Easter int. Pope Francis RIP
Monday 28th April 8:15am St George Patron of England St Mary’s House
Monday 28th April 10am
Wednesday 30th April 9:30am St Joseph The Worker
Friday 2nd May 9:30am St Athanasius
Saturday 3rd May 8:30am HMP Lewes
Sunday 4th May 10am Third Sunday of Easter

Thank You

For participating in the Triduum and for the readers and musicians

St Bernadette’s School

On Friday the Cross was decorated with flowers accompanied by joyful singing and a with number of parents present. It was then placed by the Tulip Tree as a memorial to Pope Francis.

In Conclusion…

From the will of Pope Francis

 Feeling that the sunset of my earthly life is approaching and with lively hope in eternal life…

Holy Week 2025

In Holy Week the Church celebrates the mysteries of salvation accomplished by Christ in the last days of the earthly life beginning with his messianic entry into Jerusalem.

The journey of Lent comes to its conclusion as in prayer and action we remember every moment of the events from the cheering as Christ enters Jerusalem until he reaches Calvary. May we make room in our hearts for Jesus Christ.

Bishop Richard’s Weekly Message

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

This Sunday, as we gather for the Palm Sunday celebration, our Holy Week begins.

The joyous message that greets the Messiah as he enters Jerusalem must, surely, bring hope to a world in which so many of our brothers and sisters are suffering the effects of conflict, injustice and the impact of natural disasters.

As we enter Jerusalem in the celebration of the Palm Sunday Liturgy, let us take with us in prayer our brothers and sisters across the world. In our prayer, in our lives, let us seek to walk with them in their suffering as, in the coming days, we spend time with the One who is the Suffering Servant.

As the Passion is read this Sunday, let us make every effort to walk with Jesus in every step that he takes. In the days to come this week, I invite you to take parts of the Passion account and make use of them for Lectio Divina. This prayerful reflection on the sacred text will bring the words of the Gospel to a place in the heart, where we listen in faith to the One who calls us to be His. The more we dwell in the Gospel, the more we dwell in Christ, in the One who suffered, died and rose again for us.

May God bless you all,

+ Richard

Holy Week

PALM SUNDAY OF THE PASSION 10AM Blessing of the Palms in the Hall, Procession into the Church, The Passion of St Luke, Mass.
Monday in Holy Week Mass. St Mary’s House 8.15am
Tuesday in Holy Week Mass 9.30am
Spy Wednesday Mass 9.30am
The CHRISM MASS Arundel Cathedral 6pm.Live streamed.
The blessing of the Holy Oils. The Sacrament of Baptism, The Chrism for the Sacraments of Confirmation and The order of Priesthood. The Holy Oil for the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. The Renewal of Priestly Promises.
HOLY THURSDAY or MAUNDY THURSDAY -from the Mandate to loving service. The Mass of the Lord’s Supper 7pm. The Washing of feet, the Mass, Procession of the Blessed Sacrament to the Altar of Repose. Prayer, Watching until 10pm
GOOD FRIDAY
10 AM The Way of the Cross
3 PM Celebration of the Passion of the Lord, The Passion of St John, The Intercessions, the Veneration of the Cross. Holy Communion.
HOLY SATURDAY
HMP LEWES. EASTER MASS 8.30AM
THE EASTER VIGIL In St Mary’s Church 8pm
EASTER SUNDAY MASS 10AM

Pastoral Notes Good Friday.

Observed as a Day of Fasting & Abstinence.

Basket Collection for the Holy Land Places at both Services.

The Assisted Dying Bill

The Catholic Medical Association has provided comments on the proposed Bill – more details can be found here

Myanmar

CAFOD & the Disasters Emergency Committee have appeals for Myanmar after the earthquakes. Card donations can be made here.

The royal banners forward go

The cross shines forth in mystic glow

Where he in flesh, our flesh who made

Our sentence bore, our ransom paid

Fifth Week Of Lent

As we commence the final days of Lent we are encouraged to intensify our spiritual practices – prayer, almsgiving and fasting.

The last two sound unusual. What can they mean ? Almsgiving is described as generosity -for example, if we are able, giving a gift, some time or a kind response to another. We could think how we give of ourselves may be to appeals such as the Disaster appeal following the earthquakes or the refugee fund or the foodbank bin in your Superstore. Then there is fasting which is when we make a conscious decision to take less, to reduce or to withhold what we may eat or drink, Self denial or saying no to oneself.

In appreciating what we are remembering the Scriptures tell us of the growing opposition to Jesus and his realisation of what is to happen.

Pastoral Letter – 6th April 2025 – 5th Sunday of Lent Download

The Pastoral Message From The Bishops of England and Wales

The Terminally ill adults end of life Bill will come up for a vote towards the end of April. You can pick up from the media the ways in which this is being promoted , by articles, stories, comparisons with other countries, Provision for Palliative Care and the Hospices does not receive the same support. Those of you who have already written to our local MPs now know their attitudes.

The Bishops’ Message concludes “We too press on with this struggle important in our times.”

The Not Dead Yet group have mad available cards to be sent with a stamp to our MPs.

The Jubilee For People Who Are Unwell, People Who Experience Disability, And People With Caring Responsibilities

Through this Jubilee Year each month there is a particular group celebrating different categories. This afternoon there will be a special Mass with the Sacrament of the Anointing at 3pm In St Mary’s. Some of our housebound will be there.

Mass Schedule

Sunday 6th April 10am 5th of Lent
Sunday 6th April 3pm St Mary’s Church Mass with Sacrament of the Sick
Monday 7th April 8:15am St Mary’s House
Wednesday 9th April 9:30am
Friday 11th April 9:30am
Sunday 13th April 10am Palm Sunday, blessing of palms, and procession

The Contactless Machine

This is now working for your offertory donation

The Sacrament of Reconciliation

A timely reminder of Christ’s constant offer to seek forgiveness and the joy of hearing words of pardon and peace.

Sunday 2pm St Mary’s.

At times by arrangement

Saturday 11am

Holy Week

Sunday 13th April 10am Palm Sunday of the Passion
Monday 14th April 8:15am St Mary’s House
Tuesday 15th April 9:30am
Wednesday 16th April 9:30am
Wednesday 16th April The Chrism Mass, Arundel Cathedral
Thursday 17th April 7pm The Mass of The Lord’s Supper
Friday 18th April 10am Way of The Cross
Friday 18th April 3pm Celebration Of The Passion Of The Lord
Saturday 19th April 8pm The Easter Vigil St Mary’s Church
Sunday 20th April 10am Easter Sunday Mass

My song is love unknown
My Saviour's love to me
Love to the loveless shown
That they might lovely be
O who am I, that for my sake
My Lord should take frail flesh and die

The Fourth Week Of Lent

REJOICE – the opening word of the Entrance chant for mid- Lent and an opportunity for a breather before we commence our reflection on the Passion, Death and Rising of the Lord. In the other preparatory season, Advent there is a similar midpoint and in Churches that have them, the wearing of Rose-coloured vestments. It also encourages us to engage in the forthcoming Feasts.

An old English title for this Sunday was Mothering Sunday when domestic staff were given leave to attend Church. Tradition now has it as Mother’s Day when we show our love and affection for our own Mother. A joyful day for all the Mothers.

Pope Francis

As we do at every Mass we do pray for the Pope and now in thanksgiving for his release from hospital.

Mass Schedule – N.B. Clocks Go Forward At 1 am Sunday!

Sunday 30th March 10 am Fourth Sunday of Lent
Monday 31st March 8:15 am St Mary’s House
Wednesday 2nd April 7 pm Stations of the Cross and Lent Weekday Mass
Friday 4th April 9:30am Lent Weekday Mass
Sunday 6th April 10 am Fifth Sunday of Lent
Sunday 6th April 3 pm Mass with the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick at St Mary’s Church

Way Of The Cross

The journey of Christ to the Cross. Wednesday Evening including Mass 7pm. At other times when you are in Church follow the Way of the 14 pictures.

The Word Of Life

The April Edition is now in the Entrance for you to pick up and use during the month of April for your reflective prayer.

Lent Retreat Day

With the Monks in the City. Saturday 5^th April at St john the Baptist’s 10am – 4pm. See poster for details. An opportunity to deepen your spiritual preparation this Lent, to affirm your need for God’s grace and renewal as we approach the commemoration of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Lord of Life. Please bring your own lunch. Teas and Coffees provided. Book your place(s) via brightonmonks@worth.org.uk or phone 07444 802368

Mass With The Sacrament Of The Anointing Of The Sick

In St Mary’s Sunday 6^th April 3pm. The Sacrament is available in this communal setting for those with a serious illness, those are awaiting an operation, those of advanced age who have become noticeably weakened, also for those who have received the Sacrament previously and continue with ill health. Have a word with Fr John if unsure. Tea will follow.

Schools Break Up

From Friday 4th April returning on Easter Tuesday (22nd April)

Passiontide

This commences next Saturday

Finances

Good news the Contactless Card machine is now working and parishioners around the Diocese are finding this helpful (Did you read fewer children are swallowing coins now they are rarely used?) Offertory envelopes 2025-2026.Peter Cropp will be handing these to you after Mass. They do help if as a taxpayer you gift aid your giving. Standing Order Forms. If you prefer to donate this way Peter has forms for you. The Parish Accounts will be available after Easter. The two major leaks in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel and by the Lady Altar have been patched £960.

Reconciliation

On Wednesday 2nd April Years 4,5,6, will have the opportunity to participate in the Sacrament following an Assembly. (Please note the change in time our Mass – it starts at 7pm)

Nothing can trouble
Nothing can frighten
Those who seek God shall never go wanting
Nothing can trouble
Nothing can frighten 
God alone fills us
     Nada te turbe no 880 Taize

The Third Sunday Of Lent

This week we celebrate the Annunciation of the Lord to Mary and this marks the Incarnation of the Lord and Saviour that we acclaim in the second paragraph of the Nicene Creed. News which will be to the fore in nine months’ time.

Pope Francis

People across the world have been united in prayer for Pope Francis since his hospitalisation for pneumonia on 14 February. In recent days, medical bulletins provided by the Holy See Press Office have highlighted improvements in the Pope’s condition, with a photograph issued by the Vatican on Sunday, showing the Pope in Rome’s Gemelli hospital chapel, breathing unaided. More details can be found here.

The Shrine Of Our Lady Of Walsingham

There is a weekend Pilgrimage by the Diocese to Walsingham in Norfolk, celebrating being Pilgrims of Hope in this Jubilee Year.

The Bishops of England and Wales have asked for a Second Collection this Sunday for the support of the Shrine (Lenten almsgiving . Here is information from the Diocese.

The national collection for the National Shrine and Basilica of Our Lady at Walsingham will take place in many A&B parishes this weekend, approved by the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales. The collection is dedicated to supporting the Shrine’s Jubilee projects and initiatives, which aim to enhance the Jubilee pilgrim experience, and further the spiritual mission of the Shrine. To find out more, please see the poster sent to each church or visit the Shrine’s website.

People across our Diocese are invited to journey to Walsingham with Bishop Richard this summer. To find out more about our Walsingham pilgrimage, see the events calendar here.

Canon Oliver Heaney RIP

On Tuesday Bishop Richard with concelebrating priests and former parishioners will offer Mass for the repose of his soul prior to his burial back home in Co Mayo. The Mass will be celebrated at St Mary’s, Preston Park at 12 noon. There will be refreshments afterwards in the hall at 1:30pm.

Eileen Higgins RIP

Eileen died on St Joseph’s Day. She had been supported by family members over the last weeks. Her Requiem Mass will be at St John the Baptist Church at a date to be announced.

Mass Schedule

Sunday 23rd March 10am 3rd Sunday of Lent
Monday 24th March 8:15am St Mary’s House
Tuesday 25th March 12 noon The Solemnity of the Annunciation of The Lord St Mary’s Church for the repose of the soul of Canon Oliver Heaney
Wednesday 26th March 9:30am
Friday 28th March 9:30am
Saturday 29th March 8:15am HMP Lewes

Spring Forward!

Please remember that British Summer Time begins next week so we need to adjust our clocks before Mass next Sunday!

The angel Gabriel from heaven came
His wings as drifted snow, his eyes as flames
All hail said he
Thou lowly maiden, Mary
Most highly favoured lady. Gloria

The Second Week Of Lent

A time for transformation and renewal is one way to mark the season of Lent. In the moments of the partial eclipse of the moon and its return to glowing brightness another reminder of transitional change. This Sunday we hear of a moment of transfiguration and a glimpse of glory. There is too in the Second Reading the promise and hope of our homeland in heaven. Take the opportunities offered by Lent for yourself.

Bishop Richard’s Weekly Message

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

This week, the Gospel – as is always the case on the Second Sunday of Lent – is the account of the Transfiguration, this year from Luke’s Gospel. Jesus gives to Peter, James and John the experience of His Transfiguration in order that they be strengthened for the events that are to come – His Passion and death. Even though we know that the Lord’s death was not the end, the Lord’s Transfiguration strengthens us too.

The scale of the Lord’s suffering is beyond our experience. The very fact that He who is without sin, the Incarnate Word, suffers and dies for us is a reality so deep, so vast, that it calls forth from us prayer, love and a response in action. We cannot gaze on the crucified Lord without being changed.

When we see suffering in the world, we see the Cross – this experience calls us to prayer, to love, to action – for in serving our brothers and sisters we serve Christ, the One who suffered and died for us.

With every blessing,

+Richard

Mass Schedule

Sunday March 16th 10am 2nd in Lent
Monday March 17th 8:15am St Mary’s House
Monday March 17th 10am The Feast of St Patrick
Wednesday March 19th 9:30am The Solemnity of St Joseph
Friday March 21st 9:30am
Sunday March 23rd 10am 3rd in Lent

CAFOD

Your donations may be placed in a basket or by card here.

Service of Reconciliation

Bishop Richard will lead this for the parishes of the Deanery at St Mary Magdalen’s Upper North Street Thursday 27^th at 7.30pm. At least six priest confessors available.

Jubilee Pilgrimages

Weekend to Walsingham
Rome
Lourdes

See posters or enquire

St Patrick

Bishop and missionary. Patron of Ireland. Mass for his feast Monday 10am at St Thomas More.

St Joseph

Foster- father of Christ and husband of Mary, carpenter. Patron of the Universal Church. ‘Jesus, Mary and Joseph may I breathe forth my soul in peace with you.’

Mass Wednesday at 9.30am

Saint Joseph when you pray for me
Pray to the Three-in-One
But talk in human words with him
Who let you call him Son.

The Season Of Lent

After Ash Wednesday the 40 days journey to Easter Commences with opportunities for prayer, generosity and self restraint. Finding a new way to make these practices relevant is part of our effort to engage with the purpose of Lent. We are so fortunate to have the experiences of Spring – warmth and light to stimulate our response.

Bishop Richard’s Weekly Message

Pope Francis Gives Us His Message

Dear brothers and sisters,

We begin our annual pilgrimage of Lent in faith and hope with the penitential rite of the imposition of ashes. The Church, our mother and teacher, invites us to open our hearts to God’s grace, so that we can celebrate with great joy the paschal victory of Christ the Lord over sin and death, which led Saint Paul to exclaim: “Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” ( 1 Cor 15:54-55). Indeed, Jesus Christ, crucified and risen, is the heart of our faith and the pledge of our hope in the Father’s great promise, already fulfilled in his beloved Son: life eternal (cf. Jn 10:28; 17:3)… For the full message please click here

Prayer For The Pope

We do this daily and when praying the Eucharistic Prayer, we realise we he is always remembered.

Mass Schedule

Sunday 9th March 10am First Sunday in Lent
Monday 10th March 8:15am St Mary’s House
Wednesday 12th March 9:00am Lent Weekday Mass
Friday 14th March 9:30am Lent Weekday Mass
Sunday 16th March 2nd Sunday in Lent

CAFOD Fast Day

This coming Friday is a day for Fasting for the projects of the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development. What you might save by your self denial may be returned in the envelope or you may prefer to transfer your gift by card – please click here.

Lenten Reconciliation Service

Thursday 27^th March 7-9pm in St Mary Magdalen Church. Upper North Street. Bishop Richard will be leading and there will be Priest Confessors around the Church. See the Poster.

The Vocation of The Permanent Diaconate

An Open Evening Session at St John the Evangelist, Horsham at Friday 14th March at 7pm. More information can be found here.

Soup and Sandwich Lunch

This Thursday 13th March at 12 noon. See the poster.

The Catholic Social Action Network Survey

A survey concerning the two-child benefit cap. If you wish to participate please visit this link.

Diocesan Vacancies

P/T clergy welfare officer

Health and safety officer

For details of these positions please click here.

Canon Oliver Heaney RIP

There is no date yet for Canon Oliver Heaney’s funeral


Forty days and forty nights
You were fasting in the wild
Forty days and forty nights
Tempted still and yet unbeguiled

Seventh Sunday In Ordinary Time

Half term is over and it is back to School. Following last week’s Gospel of the Beatitudes, this Sunday speaks of those in real dire need, responding even if not appreciated. Luke. focuses on generosity and compassion. The Old Testament reading tells of the moment when David had the opportunity to kill Saul and refrains from doing so.

Bishop Richard’s Weekly Reflection

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

This Sunday’s Gospel is, probably, a very challenging one for each of us, in our different ways. Indeed, we might use the text as an examination of conscience – perhaps at the end of each day, and especially in our preparation for the Sacrament of Penance.

Take time to read this text. If you are in the habit of Lectio Divina, use it for Lectio. Every sentence holds treasures, themes for our reflection, themes that may bring us to sorrow, or to joy.

In the second half of the text, Jesus calls us to a place where we do not judge one another, where we pardon, where we show compassion – walk alongside our brother or sister and share their burdens. Ultimately, He calls us to give. We all know that when we give of ourselves it brings rewards far greater than the passing happiness of our own comfort. This is far more than just the satisfaction in knowing we have done a good thing – it is a joy that comes because we are doing what the Lord asks of us. Our service is an expression of the Lord’s self-giving for us. When we truly walk with another, we are able to see Christ present in them; we are sharing His love with them.

In our present world of consumerism and the cult of the celebrity, the Lord calls us to a different path. The First Reading this Sunday provides the example of David who did what was right. He had the chance to do away with Saul, who was seeking to kill him. He took the more difficult – but righteous and compassionate – path. He spared his enemy. So with us, we are called to do what is right in every circumstance of our lives, for this will be the path of service, the path that leads to life.

Let us, too, pray most ardently for peace in our troubled world, remembering especially the need for an end to the war in Ukraine, the present troubles in Congo, that the fragile ceasefire in Gaza will hold and that the tensions on the boarder of Lebanon will ease.

Also, as Pope Francis continues his stay in the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, let us remember him very specially in our prayers.

With every blessing,

+Richard

Mass Schedule

Sunday 23rd February 10am 7th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Monday 24th February 8:15am St Mary’s House
Wednesday 26th February 9:30am
Friday 28th February 9:30am
Sunday 2nd March 10am 8th Sunday in Ordinary Time

The Lourdes Fund

Thank you for your generosity in responding to this appeal. Do you think you could be a helper?

Commissioned Ministers of Holy Communion

There is to be a Saturday Morning course for existing and new candidates March 8^th 11am-1pm in St Mary’s Hall. Have a word with Fr John if you are attending.

Parish Clergy Meeting

The first Meeting of the active Clergy of the future Parish will be on Wednesday 26th. Keep them in your prayers.

Next Week (2nd March – 8th March)

Wednesday 5th March will be Ash Wednesday marking the beginning of Lent. There will be 2 Masses – 9.30am and 7pm.

Do bring last year’s palms to the entrance next Sunday. They will be burnt to create the ashes.

Whatsoever you do
To the least of my people
That you do unto me.

No. 726