Feast of the Holy Family, Sunday December 28th 2008

On a freezing morning, we gathered to celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family. Despite this traditionally low Sunday, theere was a good turnout at church, especially from our music group. Hymns today included Angel Voices Richly Blending, the Calypso Carol and Ding Dong Merrily. A quartet from the music group sang the Coventry Carol. Deacon John was today's preacher.

There were prayers for the people of Israel and Palestine at this difficult time.

The children had their own liturgy today, returning as normal at the Offertory.

Next week, we celebrate the feast of the Epiphany, so don't forget to leave your slippers out overnight!

A video for Christmas

Here is a short video of Christmas morning at Sacred Heart, just as the 9.30am service has ended.

Christmas at Sacred Heart

Here are a few images of Sacred Heart Church at Christmas 2008. Once again we were blessed with very full churches on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The crib figures have been kindly re-painted by parishioner Joan Medley.

4th Sunday of Advent

It's good to see this blog proving so popular - we nearly up to 700 visitors now. Today was the 4th Sunday of Advent, with the final candle - that of love - being lit on the Advent wreath.

The focus of today's liturgy was Mary, and Father Ted preached about family trees, especially that of Jesus.

Today is a big day for the children of the parish. They will be having their own Advent service this afternoon at 4pm. In previous years this has proved very popular - and there are snacks afterwards.

Today was sunny in Rugby by the way. It also marks the turning of the season as the days actually grow longer from now on. So happy Solstice!

Also this week, Churches Together is organising carol singing on Monday night around the retirement homes of Bilton. Please meet at the Co-op at 6pm.

Young parishioners Maciek Hulme and Hugh Potter are joining a trip to the Himalayas in 2010. Various fundraising events are being planned. Please support them.

3rd Sunday of Advent

The third candle has been lit, the pink one, and Father Ted was in rose-coloured vestments today. Deacon John preached about John the Baptist and again mentioned the growing lists of parishioners who wish to be involved in the parish's future planning. It is really encouraging to see so many volunteers keen to get involved.

Today was a big day for the Holiday Club as it was the draw for the £1,000 first prize. Eilish Rooney took the first prize pot, with Anne Loftus and Pat Garrett winning runners-up prizes. Once again, thanks to those who organise the Holiday Club - it's such a good way of supporting the parish.

Young parishioners were signing up today for the dressing up part of next Sunday's Family Advent Service. There's always a good turnout for this event - the service lasts half an hour and there are refreshments afterwards. It starts at 4pm.

If anyone has a poinsettia (no it's not a dog!), then bring it along next week so the church can be decorated for Christmas.

Senior parishioners - there are presents waiting for you at church, in case you missed last week's party.

Anyone who wishes to be involved in singing or playing an instrument at the Christmas services should come along to the hall on Saturday at 10am for a practice.

Second Sunday of Advent

Father Ted preached today about preparing the way. He said John the Baptist was one of his heroes and that we can prepare the way by turning from consumerism and the need to constantly have things and possess the very latest gadgets - there is anoent.
ther, simpler way.
We sang the traditional hymn - On Jordan's Bank - and had the Advent Litany of prepare (Word of Justice...). The second candle was lit for Advent.
This week there are two more ways to prepare - an hour of quiet reflection and chant on Monday at 7.30pm, and a service of reconciliation on Thursday at 7.30pm.
Christmas cards and Fair Trade goods were on sale after mass, plus a fundraising stall by Macek Hume. There were also Christmas posters to take away and put in your window.
The Holiday Club is nearing the end of its six-month cycle with a fantastic £1,000 prize up for grabs shortly. Make sure your subscription is up to date, and why not join??

The start of Advent 2008

Happy new year! The church's new year has begun with the first Sunday of Advent. Father Ted lit the first candle on the Advent wreath, a candle symbolising hope.
There were plenty of signs of hope about - eight young parishioners were enrolled in our programme to make their first communion next year. It was also the launch of our new pastoral plan - eight groups are being formed to look at different aspects of parish life, including worship, finance, social, caring for others and welcoming. Parishioners were invited to sign up on a board in the hall (from which the word 'king' mysteriously disappeared overnight!) Already some of hte headings have six or seven names against them. There is still time to sign up as the lists will stay up for the whole of Advent.
The preacher was deacon John, pictured, who urged people to support the project, as well as telling us about the housemartins which nest in his garden. It all made sense!

Help is needed for the seniors' Christmas party next Sunday - always a popular event.

There are two Advent reflection services coming up - one at St Marie's on Friday at 7.30pm, and another at Sacred Heart the following Monday at 7.30pm. Everyone welcome, of course.

The Parish Concert in review

The concert opened with Father Ted coming on to the theme tune from Star Wars.
He introduced the first act - Scamps from St Marie's. The children entertained us with Amorillo, Smile and Bless Me Indeed. They were accompanied by Michael Floyd on guitar and Heather Hope on keyboard.
Next up was a powerful performance of Time to say goodbye, sung by Patricia Ovens accompanied by John Howes.
Music group members Lizzy Howes and Bernadette Palmer then played Last Night of the World from Miss Saigon. Lizzy on flute and Bernadette on clarinet. Well played!
Young parishioner Guido Blee then took up his oboe with two items - Harvest Time and English Jig. His sister Astrid was joined by schoolfriends Lauren Downing and Elinor Davies with two impressive songs - Mammia Mia from Abba and A Thousand Miles by Vanessa Carlton.
Crescent School head Huw Marshall was next with a moving rendition of Ole Man River from Showboat by Jerome Kern. Deacon John Burrows was next on stage. He talked about childhood and read out some hilarious mistakes which children had made in their schoolwork. He had the audience in fits.
It was back to the deep south next with cantor Richard Potter singing the Gershwin classic Summertime. A Tragedy of Two Ambitions - comprising Lizzy and John Howes - sang two songs next - the Elton John song I need you to turn to, and the Joni Mitchell ballad Both Sides Now.
The first half closed with the Barbershop Quartet, comprising Richard Potter, Huw Marshall, Brian Davies and John Howes, singing With a little bit of luck from My Fair Lady.
Then we had a shared supper in the interval.

The second half.

Host Father Ted arrived on stage to the James Brown song I Feel Good. The half opened with another appearance by Scamps, this time backed by trio Serenity. They sang two songs from the forthcoming musical Twenty20. They were Trio and Achieve, Enjoy.
There wasn't a dry eye in the house as Brian Davies delivered the classic musical song Some Enchanted Evening by Rogers and Hammerstein. Paul Francis, backed by Greg Floyd on drums, then sang and played the Phil Collins song about the homeless, Another Day in Paradise plus the Elton John song from the 1980s, I guess that's why they call it the blues.
Michael Floyd and John Howes then sang From A Distance, followed by a beautiful rendition of Quem Pastores by Jacob Palmer.
A comedy sketch song was next up, hilariously performed by Diane Davies, Sue Leary, Teresa Mortimore, Mary Watson and Mary Hope. It was their own version of My Favourite Things.
Folk trio The Withered Arm (Lizzy and John Howes plus Greg Floyd) next sang Killing Me Softly followed by the late news headlines delivered by Father Ted. Serenity then took centre stage with three rock numbers - She Was Just 17, Roll Over Beethoven and another good rocker. The finale was led by Astrid Blee, Lauren Downing and Elinor Davies saying Thankyou for the Music. They were joined by the entire company and the audience of about 150 people joined in with the singing.
Thanks to everyone who made it such an enjoyable evening.

33rd Sunday of Year A

The church's year is gradually drawing to a close, with Christ the King next week being our final celebration before Advent. All the children's groups were operating today, with the Little Disciples looking after the very young. It was good to see so many children in church.
Looking ahead, the parish in-council meets on Thursday night. Everyone in the parish is a member of this group - whether they like it or not! Anyone can attend the meetings and you can find the agenda on the parish website.
The UCM Christmas baskets were on view - and you can buy raffle tickets for this fantastic festive prize after mass next week. The UCM mince pie evening is on Wednesday November 26th at 7.45pm. It's always a good evening, so try to get along.
Next week, there will be an emergency appeal for the Congo.

Parish Concert - some images

The Parish Concert, 2008

The Sacred Heart Parish Concert took place on Saturday November 8th 2008 at Crescent School. There were 21 acts, including comedy, instrumentals and singing and the event was compered by Father Ted Mullen.
Here is a short video of Serenity playing at the end of the show.

29th Sunday of the Year, October 19th

Today was World Mission Sunday and the church was packed for our Sunday celebration. The preacher was Deacon John. It was good to see Father Ted (pictured) back after his recent illness.
There was good news for the Francis and Potter families. Holly Rebecca had been born on Friday to Hannah who is married to Paul Francis. Congratulations to them all.
There were prayers, too, for Ted White who had been taken ill during the night. Our best wishes go to Ted who is well-known for his work with the Holiday Club and as a sacristan.
There were also prayers for Colin Silver, a parishioner at St Mark's, and well-known to many at Sacred Heart. He had been a leading light in Churches Together for many years. There will be a memorial service at St Mark's at 3pm on Friday (October 24th).
Rehearsals continue for the parish concert (on Saturday November 8th) with many parishioners brushing up their acts after mass today. Tickets are selling very well indeed, and will be on sale again after masses next weekend.

28th Sunday of the Year

Father Ted was not able to celebrate mass today as he is unwell. We wish him all the best in his recovery. Father Tony Baxter was able to step in ato be held at the last minute.
It was the first Sunday for the new Little Disciples group for children aged four and under. This is not a creche, but a chance for our young parishioners to learn about Jesus. Thanks to Kate Browning for organising this. It was good to see such a large number of children at the service.
There were prayers for George Fitzpatrick and Michael Gallway who both died during the week. Details of their funeral services are on the parish website.
The fourth and final Living Faith meeting is this Thursday - when the subject will be migrants. There are will spaces available.
Tickets are selling well for the parish concert on Saturday November 8th. Last year it was a sell-out so make sure you get your tickets early. They will be on sale after both masses this weekend.
A meeting is to be held on Thursday November 6th for parents of First Communion candidates.
Our best wishes go to two parishioners who were taken ill during masses this week, and our thanks to those who cared for them.

27th Sunday of the Year

On a gloomy rainy morning, attendance was understandably down for the Sunday morning mass. Father Ted's sermon was about duty and obligation being one reason why people should attend mass.
Today is also the time for a special service of thanksgiving for creation, to mark the harvest and the feast of St Francis yesterday. The church has been beautifully decorated with flowers ahead of the service at 3pm today which will be followed by tea and cakes.
Tickets have gone on sale for the Parish Concert on Saturday November 8th. They are £2 for adults and £1 for children.
October is the month of the Rosary which will be said before each weekday mass during the month. The Living Faith talks continue - the next one on Thursday will be about homelessness.

The 26th Sunday of the Year

It was good to welcome Father Ted back from holiday today. There was a pastoral letter from the Archbishop on the theme of St Paul (this being a special year dedicated to St Paul).
Father Ted reminded everyone about the forthcoming Thanksgiving Service for the Feast of St Francis. This takes place on Sunday October 5th at 3pm at the church. It is aimed particularly at children, but everyone is welcome. It's not a mass, and should last about half an hour. Tea and cakes to follow.
Today was also a special day for Sue (pictured) and Tony Valentine who celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary. After a party in the church hall last night, they had their wedding vows blessed by Father Ted today. A special song, the Song For Ruth, was sung at mass.
The first of the Living Faith talks has taken place. The next one, featuring
new Testament lecturer David Sanders, is this Thursday night. Spaces are still available. Call 810886.
Excitement continues to mount over the parish concert. Tickets should be on sale next week. About 14 acts have so far confirmed for the entertainment fest in November.

The 25th Sunday of the Year

Father Joe was our guest celebrant again today with Deacon John preaching. There was news of the forthcoming Living Faith talks which begin this Thursday night. Places are still available if you can contact Brian Davies on 810886.
It was a beautiful sunny morning for a change and a good turnout in church.
Acts are being signed up for the parish concert on Saturday November 8th - already plenty of volunteers so it should be a good occasion. Still time to enter!
There was also news of our Creation Service for children on Sunday October 5th at 3pm. Come along in a colour of the rainbow. Tea and cakes afterwards.

Racial Justice Sunday

The sun shone and we had a guest priest for Racial Justice Sunday and the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. Father Joe was presiding and his sermon touched on Coventry City, racial justice and coloured sweets. Quite a combination.
Tickets are still available for the Living Faith series of talks. Posters are now up for the parish concert, with tickets on sale soon. Bottles could be win in the tombola, left over from the successful UCM event during the week.

Read the parish council minutes here - and comment

Sacred Heart Parish-in-Council

Minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 4th September 2008

Present: Michael Floyd, Maureen Smith, Veronica York, Sue Valentine, John Howes, Diane
Davies, Margaret Reid, Geraldine Reid, Ann Hunter, Brian Davies, Frank Ollerenshaw, Fr
Ted, David Warburton; Kathleen MacKenzie, Pat Scannell, Rosaleen Curley, Sheila
Male, Maria Carr and Norma Elliott.
Apologies: Deacon John, Margaret Cassin, Margaret Butler, Greg Floyd, Mary Hope, Alan Langham, Joan Medley, Richard Potter, Laurence Ryan.

1. Fr Ted opened the meeting with a prayer.

2. The minutes of the meeting of 22nd May were approved.

3. Matters arising:
a) Pat Scannell has kindly agreed to be Parish Treasurer.
b) Fr Ted explained that Graham was again occupying the shelter and things were working well.

4. Pastoral Plan
John Howes introduced the outline plan which had been circulated. The Pastoral Plan Group (John, Fr. Ted, Diane, Michael Floyd & Sue V) had met a number of times and had produced a number of proposals under 6 main headings. We need to consider what is good for the future of the parish over the coming years. It was generally agreed that at this stage all themes represented important dimensions in the life of the parish but at a later stage we may need to decide on priorities.

Various suggestions were made under each theme (see attached update of plan). To take things forward we need wider parish involvement so that we have a small group working on each theme. (The task would be impossible if everything was to be done by the same people). It was proposed that (1) the themes be displayed in the hall; (2) volunteers to be invited to join the group dealing with their chosen theme; (3) Fr Ted address the themes in turn in homilies over the coming months; (4) groups consider how, by whom and with what timescale suggestions are to be implemented and report on progress at the next council meeting in December. Inevitably groups will proceed at different rates and the council will eventually need to decide on priorities.

5. Environmental Concerns
The 4 Eco-congregation study groups (on Worship, Bible Study, Finance and Green Choices) reported on what they had to share with the rest of the parish. After some discussion these were passed on to the group that will take Environmental Concerns forward as part of the Pastoral Plan.

6. Brief Reports
a) Liturgy (John): ‘A Celebration of Creation’ will take place on Sunday 5th October at 3pm
b) Social (John): A parish picnic will take place on Sunday 7th September after Matt at 10.30am.
c) Bilton Churches Together (Michael): The meeting on 12th July, attended by 5 members of Sacred Heart, was a prayerful gathering. There was a consensus that BCT should continue.
d) Homeless Project (Geraldine): The soup kitchen at St Andrew’s now had charitable status.
e) Maintenance (Fr Ted): Outside security lights were in process of being sorted. The toilets area would be tackled next. Regarding new trees, Richard Taylor might be able to help.
f) Finance (Pat): There was as yet no budget or 5-year plan.
Current cash in hand (Sept) is £11,500. Balance in Jan this year was £37,000 but £26,000 has been spent on the church and the house. We are expecting a tax refund of £5000.
Offertory collections are down £3,000 which was a matter of some concern.
g) UCM (Rosaleen): On Thursday 11th Sept there will be a cake evening in aid of hall
refurbishment.
UCM nationally had warned about likely increased water-drainage charges which will have a heavy impact on churches. Severn-Trent need to be pressured on this both by parishioners and by the Diocesan Treasurer.
h) Monday Club (Frank): is still functioning.
i) Catchetics (Diane): There are 5 children who will make their First Communion in 2009.
Bishop William will confer Confirmation on 14th June.
Children’s liturgy/satellites resume this coming weekend after the summer break.
The idea of a creche during Mass for ‘under 4s’ (in the crying room) was being explored by Kate Browning.
j) Prayer Group (Laurence Ryan): evangelisation in the parish is being supported by the prayer group.

7. Events
Living Faith Talks: Only limited demand for tickets so far. (Talks begin on 25th Sept).
Diocesan Justice & Peace Assembly:“There are no Strangers” Sat 11th Oct at St Peter’s School Solihull.
Interfaith Discussions:
Thurs 11th Sept Orthodoxy & Western Christianity (at Orthodox Church)
Mon 13th Oct Consciousness (at Hindu Temple)
Tues 11th Nov A Muslim response to Atonement (venue to be decided)
Wed 10th Dec Forgiveness (venue to be decided)
Blagovest Concert: Although there were few members of Sacred Heart at the concert last April it was very well attended and it was felt we should seek to have the choir
return next year.
According to Bishop William’s office the Deanery Visitation will not take place till 2010.

8. The meeting ended by saying The Grace together

Future meetings: Thursday Dec. 4th, Thursday March 9th 2009 (AGM).

Parish picnic beats the rain

The parish picnic took place today and beat the rain. Mass was at 10.30am (and attendance did not seem to be noticeably down). Between 40 and 50 people attended the picnic which was held in the hall because of the pouring rain. Here are a few images from the event. Your comments are welcome at the end of the story.

An important week

A couple of key events are coming up for the parish. On Thursday September 4th, the first meeting of the parish-in-council takes place. This is a new venture, with everyone being a member of the council. But will anyone turn up? Good question.
Everyone is urged to bring along two friends to the meeting. There's an important agenda - with the parish pastoral plan top of the list.

Then there is the parish picnic on Sunday. Mass is at 10.30am so enjoy the lie-in. The picnic will be in the parish grounds with games for the children. See you there.

Please pray for Peter Wood, a familiar face on Sunday mornings, who has died. His funeral took place last week. Peter was very much gentleman and a friendly person and will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace.

Remember this occasion?

Here are a few pictures from last year's parish concert. It won't be long until the next one. Did you enjoy last year's event? Please post a comment.

Nearly the holidays!

Ahoy there me hearties! It's Sea Sunday and today we had special prayers for those who work at sea. We also had the traditional singing of Eternal Father, Strong to Save.

It's nearly the summer holidays for those with children of a school age. Some have already broken up, while others - such as Father Ted - are already enjoying their holidays. Today, for the second week running, Father Joe from St Marie's was very welcome to take our service.

At the end, he paid tribute to the parish and said how much enjoyed being in a parish where so many lay people were involved - whether it was reading, serving or being part of the music group. It is always good to get some feedback about the parish.

A UCM tea and cakes evening happens on Thursday September 11th, not long after the parish picnic on September 7th. Information is needed on the people on the parish sick list. Please call the presbytery if you wish to have your named removed.

The parish barbecue

Here are some pictures from the parish barbecue, held on Friday June 13 2008 at Sacred Heart. The pictures were taken by Richard Potter.

The parish woodland walk

Here are some pictures from the parish woodland walk which was held in June 2008. The pictures were taken by Richard Potter.

12th Sunday of the Year

After a gloomy day of rain and grey skies yesterday, it was a sunny although rather windy morning today. This was the 12th Sunday of the Church's year - and we had two priests and a deaocn in attendance: Father Joe was again visiting from St Marie's (not Father Joe Mullen).

A group has been looking at the future aims of the parish and Father Ted spoke today about how we could assess what type of parish we are. He said everyone's views would be welcome on how we should 'go forward' as a parish, and there will be a chance for people to feed in their ideas later in the year.

A draft mission statement will be put to the parish council meeting on September for discussion.

There was a final appeal for people to come forward to be confirmed by the bishop next year. Numbers have to be sent off. There was also an appeal for new people to join the Holiday Club - a great way to support the parish, and possibly win £1,000 prize.

Next Sunday is the feast of St Peter and St Paul and marks the 2,000th anniversary of the birth of the Apostle to the Gentiles, and a special year of events.

11th Sunday of the Year

It has been a busy time in parish life recently. Friday saw the parish barbecue, enjoyed on a lovely evening by about 45 people. There were games organised the scouts and everyone had a good time. Look out for the next social event - the parish picnic on Sunday September 7th in the church grounds.

Today was the 11th Sunday of the Year looking at the call of the apostles. The children came back from their liturgy with a big poster of all the disciples, while Deacon John read a consultants' mock report of whether the apostles would ever be recruited by a business. Some of them would clearly struggle on The Apprentice!

After mass, Father Ted drew the winning tickets in the Holiday Club twice-yearly draw. Gisela Blee won £1,000, Margaret Butler £150 and Marie Cleaver £50. Congratulations to them.

Parishioner Ann O'Callaghan is taking part in the Race for Life on Wednesday July 9th and is holding a cake sale after mass next weekend. Come along and sponsor her and buy a cake.

There are still spaces left on the UCM trip to Walsingham on Tuesday July 1st.

Plus, a new venture. Kate Browning is organising a creche for toddlers at Sunday Mass. Call her on 819131 if you could help.

Parish council minutes

Here are the minutes of Sacred Heart Parish Pastoral Council, held on Thursday 22nd May 2008

Present: – Michael Floyd, Maureen Smith, Veronica York, Sue Valentine, John Howes, Diane Davies, Margaret Reid, Geraldine Reid, Alan Langham, Ann Hunter, Brian Davies, Chris Browning, Laurence Ryan, Frank Ollerenshaw, Paul Francis, Fr Ted, David Warburton;
Apologies: Margaret Cassin & Theresa Mortimer.
The meeting was opened by Fr Ted with a prayer and a reading from Proverbs 2:1-8.

Election of officers for the coming year:
Chair: Brian Davies (proposed by Michael Floyd, seconded by Theresa Mortimer)
Vice-Chair: Michael Floyd (proposed by John Howes, seconded by Diane Davies)
Treasurer: still being sought.
Joan Medley has agreed to be Minutes Secretary.
The minutes of the meeting of 13th March were agreed with a couple of minor corrections.
Matters arising: there were no matters arising.

5. Parish Survey.
John Howes presented the results of the survey. The Pastoral Plan Group (John, Fr. Ted, Diane & Sue V) were thanked for their work and Michael volunteered to join the group. More ideas would be welcome. It is hoped that a plan will be ready for the next meeting.

6. Information Sharing
Homeless Project (Geraldine): plans to relocate the Soup Kitchen have been shelved as being too expensive.
Woodland Walk on June 1st.
RIFF Peace Walk also on June 1st. (The clash of dates is unfortunate).
The next RIFF discussion on 10th June will be on the Human fertilisation and Embryology Bill.
Fr Ted feels it is part of our Mission to help those "on the margins" of society and our sheltered accommodation is again in demand. The May Day Trust has referred a woman occupant recently. While she is there Graham is living in the parish room upstairs. Michael drew attention to the safety concerns about the use of the shelter expressed by the PPC some time ago. The future use of this accommodation will be kept under review.
Living Faith Series: Brian circulated the programme of talks proposed for the Autumn:
Thurs. Sept.25th "Jesus as Jewish Prophet"; by David McLoughlin.
Thurs. Oct. 2nd "Paul- Prophet of Jesus Christ"; by David Sanders OP
Thurs. Oct 9th "Work for the Homeless- witness or sticking plaster?" by Alison Gelder
Thurs. Oct 16th "Migrants in British Society – a matter of justice?" by Don Flynn

7. Environmental Audit
The group (Fr Ted, Geraldine, Margaret Cassin & Brian) met on April 1st and decided we should focus on four of the Ecocongregation Modules:
Mod. 2 – Celebrating Creation! (being pursued by the Liturgy Group)
Mod. 6 – Exploring God’s Green Word (Fr. Ted, Diane, Frank and Ann volunteered)
Mod. 8 – Greening the Purse Strings (being pursued by the Finance Group)
Mod.10 – Green Choices (David, Veronica, Alan, Margaret and Brian volunteered)
The Liturgy Group is already proposing that October 4th be observed as "Green Sunday", celebrating Harvest and perhaps incorporating a Flower Festival.
Michael reported that St. Marie’s Junior School has been awarded "Silver" among "Eco-Schools".

8. Bilton Churches Together
Some members have proposed that BCT should meet again on July 7th and deal with the matters that have been so successfully shared together over the years. Revive matters will be left entirely to the clergy.

9. Constitution
It was agreed that we adopt as circulated the Parish-in-Council Constitution for the coming year and decide at our next AGM whether it be made permanent. John H proposed that each Parish Group should nominate a representative to report to the Parish Council. David proposed that a quorum be constituted by a half +1 of such representation. These amendments were accepted.

10. Maintenance
Fr. Ted discussed the felling of the trees on the Church land perimeter. It was decided to consult John Wells on who best among Rugby Council staff should advise.
Lighting in the car park had been vandalised and needs to be made good.
The inadequacy of the toilet provision was mentioned again.
Where possible we should use energy-efficient light bulbs.

11. AOB
Paul Francis made an urgent appeal for Catholics to be recruited into the Rugby Scout Group, which is struggling to maintain a viable number.
There will be a parish collection for CAFOD’s emergency appeal for China and Burma.
12. Future meetings: Sept. 9th, Dec. 4th, March 9th 2009 (AGM). All on Thursdays.

The meeting closed with the "Live Simply" prayer said together.

A visit from Father Joe

Today we had a visit from Father Joe. No, not former parish priest Father Joe Mullen, but Father Joe from St Marie's Parish who was standing in for Father Ted.

Glorious sunshine greeted us this morning and it was a joyful celebration of the Mass together, including the rousing finale The Kingdom of Heaven.

There was a collection for the suffering people of Burma and China. This money will be sent to Cafod. Last week's Mission Appeal for Sierra Leone raised £500.

Parishioners were reminded that the parish barbecue takes place this Friday night (13th) at 7pm - come wind, rain or shine! Last year, the event was very well supported, even though it poured with rain. This time, the scouts will be helping out by organising games on the church lawns.

There were prayers today for the wife of Deacon John Burrows who is unwell. Please remember her in the your prayers this week.

Ninth Sunday of the Year

At the end of the half-term holiday, we welcomed Father Lawrence, a Xavierian missionary from Sierra Leone, to make an appeal about his home country suffering from the effects of civil war.

An appeal has gone out for anyone wishing to be confirmed in 2009. Please sign the list in the narthex. Today is the day for two walks - the parish woodland walk to Cawston Woods at 3pm, and the Peace Walk, leaving Rugby library at 2.30pm. Take your pick! The parish barbecue is taking place on Friday June 13th at 7pm - but as yet we do not have a barbecue. Please call the presbytery (813263) if you can help out on this one.

The holiday club cycle finishes on Sunday June 8th. It only costs £1 a week and there are some big money prizes available - £1,000 for the first out of the hat. You've got to be in to win!

A Green audit is taking place. This is looking at all aspects of parish life and how we help the environment. A number of groups have been set up to reflect on this.

Anyone want to be a scout? Rugby's only Catholic Scout group is recruiting boys or girls for beavers, cubs and scouts. Call 07875 880275 for more information.

The feast of the Holy Trinity

After three days of terribly gloomy weather, the sun shone again today - and we celebrated the Feast of the Holy Trinity.

The music was joyous, helped by Greg Floyd's guitar. Both our cantors were away this weekend, but the music group did well to lead the singing. There was a rousing finale with Our God Reigns.

Father Ted announced the results of the parish survey, completed by 105 people. You can read these are a separate post. It was good to see such a large number of people (66%) saying they either would definitely like to become more involved in parish life, or perhaps might like to. The parish council meets this Thursday night when everyone is welcome to attend. The parish council hopes to adopt a plan for the future at its autumn meeting.

Who will be chair of the parish council? Find out on Thursday. The story about this has had an amazing 125 hits on the parish website!

Don't forget that the parish walk takes place on Sunday June 1st at 3pm. Bring some cakes along to share afterwards if you can. The parish barbecue is on Friday June 13th at 7pm. Bring something along to cook.

The findings of the parish survey

These are the findings of the parish survey:

ComingTogether – Sacred Heart Parish Survey 2008
Many thanks to the 105 people who completed the survey. Here are the results:
Which age group are you in?
Under 15 – 9% 16-25 – 2% 26-40 – 6.5% 41-60 27% 60+ - 58%
Are you male or female?
Male – 22% Female – 78%
How many are there in your household?
1-17.5% 2-47% 3-12% 4-17.5% 5-5% 6-1%
Where do you live?
Cawston Grange-7% Woodlands-12% Admirals-9% Beechcroft-4% Bilton Village-20% Shakespeare Gardens Estate-5% Grandborough-0% Willoughby-1% Dunchurch-9% Outside the parish-38%
How often do you attend Mass?
Daily or weekly-92.5% Fortnightly-6.5% Never-1%
Are you Roman Catholic?
Yes-99% No-1%
What is the main reason you come to Mass?
Faith-85% Habit-5% Children-6% Can’t get to mass-1% Social reasons-1.5% Mother makes me-1.5%
Do you feel well informed about parish life?
Yes-93% No-7%
Do you have any needs which are not being met at present?
Home blessing-4 Home visits-5 Deepening spirituality-4 Transport-2
One mention each for: youth provision, outreach, getting to know people, moral guidance, liturgical study, ecumenical activity, justice and peace, interfaith dialogue, more traditional hymns.
Would you like to become more involved in parish life?
Yes-23% Perhaps-43% No-34%
Which way would you like to become more involved?
Youth club – 2 people, plus one mention each for: summer fete, Christmas fair, anything, UCM, welcoming new parishioners in Cawston, social events, domestic help, book swopping, making a welcome pack, children’s liturgy, justice and peace, eco-congregation, Monday Club.

Ideas for the future of the parish

These are some of the ideas which emerged from the parish survey. More ideas are welcome.
If you have any, please add them. They will all be considered by the parish council.

The ideas:
a welcome pack for new parishioners
a picture board identifying group contacts
themed weekends to invite parishioners to become more involved in parish life
a badge weekend
a needs board, so parishioners could ask for practical help (eg transport to church)
developing our role as an eco-congregation
events to develop our spirituality together

Pentecost at Sacred Heart

As Father Ted put it, this was a double whammy: it was Pentecost - marking the birth of the Church - and it was a special day for eight young parishioners making their First Communion. It was also a gloriously sunny morning to make it extra special.

The youngsters were Prudence, Molly, Harrison, Ella, Grace, Sophie, Danny and Martin and this was the culmination of a long journey of preparation. There was some wonderful singing - traditional Sacred Heart songs such as Be Still for the Presence of the Lord, and God alone may lead my spirit. The children took a cake up to the altar to mark the birthday of the church, and to eat at the party afterwards. A huge congregation saw many standing at the back and using overflow rooms.

There were presentations afterwards to catechists Diane Davies and Pat Francis, and to parish priest Father Ted.

Don't forget that next weekend the results of the parish survey will be published. There has been huge interest in it - with our website story on the survey receiving more than 100 views.

Nominations are invited for the position of parish chair. You will need to chair about four meetings a year, attend various sub-committees and liaise with the parish priest and parish secretary - but you do not need to be a current member of the council. Nomination forms are available in the entrance hall.

The Feast of the Ascension

Today we celebrated the Feast of the Ascension, now transferred to a Sunday. It was also Catholic Communications Sunday and we prayed for all those involved in the work of communication. Father Ted it was also 50 years since St Clare had been pronounced patron saint of television - though not all of television's output is consistent with the church's teaching!

The music group led us in singing 'I rejoiced when I heard them say' as an entrance hymn, the beautiful 'O God you search me and you know me' and the final hymn 'Christ Triumphant'.

The children's group returned from their own liturgy with a giant banner about Jesus' going up to heaven.

The results of the parish survey - Coming Together - will be announced on Trinity Sunday. An amazing 105 responses were received - a tremendous achievement.

Blagovest entertained a large audience last Sunday and reports suggest it was a wonderful concert. The attendance was bigger than usual.

Next week, a group of our young parishioners will be making their First Communion. This is also Pentecost Sunday, so it should be a great celebration. On Wednesday this week, everyone is invited to the UCM bingo night which begins at 8pm. Eyes down!

There were prayers for Harold Hickman who has sadly died and for Colin Silver, a member of St Mark's parish, who is unwell. There is a full list of those who are sick on the main parish website.

Today was supposed to be the hottest day of the year so far - but it still managed to rain!

Don't forget the parish woodland walk which takes place on the afternoon of Sunday June 1st at 3pm. Make a note in your diaries.

Here comes the sun

It was a warm morning this Sunday and really felt like Spring. Attendance at mass was a little lower than usual, probably because St Marie's Junior School had been singing at the St Marie's Saturday night mass and many families had gone along to support them.

Tonight, the Russian choir Blagovest will be performing at Sacred Heart in their annual visit to the parish. The choir sing a mixture of religious and folk songs and have been highly praised by those who have attended in the past. It should be a good night - and it's free!

The parish survey is now closed - more than 100 responses have been received (not bad for a parish of between 300 and 400 people!) These are now being carefully analysed and the results will be reported back to the parish on Trinity Sunday.

The first communion programme meets again this Monday night, and the UCM were selling tickets for their bingo night on Wednesday May 7th.

The parish walk will be on Sunday June 1st, and the summer barbecue night is scheduled for Friday June 13th at 7pm. So there are lots of social events to look forward to over the next few weeks.

And happy Easter to our brothers and sisters in the Orthodox Church. Today is their Easter Sunday.

Joining the Guild of St Stephen

This photograph has just come up of the new members of the Guild of St Stephen who were enrolled last Sunday.

A surprise for Alfred

There was a surprise for veteran parishioner Alfred Canale-Parola this week when he was presented with a silver medal from the Guild of St Stephen. Alfred has been serving at weekday masses for an amazing 25 years. The award was presented by Father Ted and Deacon John.

Also in the news were four young parishioners - Sherwin, James, James and Caitlin - who received medals as members of the Guild of St Stephen. Congratulations to all of them.

The weather, however, was rather unforgiving. For the second day running, the skies were grey and miserable and rain was falling throughout the morning.

Brian was not with us, so Richard Potter took on the cantor duties. Our opening hymn, Join in the Dance, reminded us that Jesus the Saviour is risen from the grave. Father Ted's sermon today again touched on the idea of living in the present and trying not to worry about the future. Many of our worries are irrational and often based on an unlikely expectation of what bad things might happen. He said that the phrase 'Do not be afraid' appears 365 times in the bible.

A healing service takes place this afternoon at 3.30pm in the church for anyone who is unwell or has a need of anointing.

Get your eyes down for the parish bingo night. This is being organised by the UCM and takes place on Wednesday May 7th at 8pm. Admission is only £1.

A new website has been set up for St Marie's Infant School. Take a look at it by clicking here.
Click here.

Join the walk in the woods

The parish Woodland Walk will take place on Sunday June 1st at 3pm. We will leave from Sacred Heart and have a leisurely walk around Cawston Wood. The walk should take about an hour and will be followed by tea and cakes in the church hall. Everyone is invited to join the walk, or just to come along for the tea at about 4pm in the hall.

New CD released

Scamps, the performing arts group at St Marie's Junior School has just released a new worship CD called Heavenly Praise. It was launched at a cost last Saturday afternoon at the school. Quite a few Sacred Heart parishioners are involved in the project, including headteacher Michael Floyd, Jacob Palmer, Guido Blee and Greg Floyd.

Sunday of the Good Shepherd

For some reason - maybe because it is mid-term - the church was packed this morning. It was a rousing service (or seemed to be anyway!) with some good singing, on hymns such as Yahweh I know you are near, and the 1970s classic Colours of Day.

The Gospel reading was about the Good Shepherd and Father Ted preached about the idea of Jesus standing in for us and taking the blame and the punishment for our faults. He mentioned the Second World War saint Maximilian Kolbe who gave his life in the death camps in place of another prisoner.

Father Ted again mentioned the service of anointing which takes place next Sunday afternoon. This is something of a new departure for Sacred Heart. Anyone who is unwell or feels the need for healing is invited to come along at 3.30pm.

Don't forget to come along and see the Blagovest Russian choir on Sunday April 27th at 7pm. They have been several times before and have been stunning. The programme will mix sacred music and some Russian folk songs.

And for once, it wasn't raining during Mass, although it certainly hasn't felt like spring yet.

Old friends...former parishioner Ethne Sneddon was back in the parish for a visit this week.

Who wants to be parish chair?

The chair of the parish council is currently vacant - or rather it has an acting resident. Father Ted has kindly agreed to act as chair until a more permanent candidate can be found.

Richard Potter stepped down from his role as chair at the annual parish meeting, but no other candidates came forward. There is now time for others to come forward who might like to have a go. They will need to be formally nominated and seconded.

The role involves chairing about four meetings a year, and ensuring the parish's pastoral plan continues to move forward. Various sub-committees report in to the parish council.

If you would like to have a go, please contact Father Ted or any current member of the parish council.

By the way, what do you think about the job the parish council does? Leave a comment below.

The Supper at Emmaus

A fairly heavy snowfall greeted us as we pulled back the curtains this morning, the Third Sunday of Easter. Today's gospel was on the Supper at Emmaus, an incident dramatically re-enacted in the recent BBC series The Passion. This beautiful image captures the moment quite well.

Today, instead of a sermon, we had Mike Godwin from Cafod telling us how our donations had been spent helping people in the Third World.

St Marie's Junior School has brought out a new CD, Heavenly Praise, which will be out shortly. It is being launched at a concert next Saturday at the school at 3pm. Everyone is invited.

The Russian choir Blagovest will be singing at Sacred Heart on Sunday April 27th at 7pm. No ticket prices, just come along and make a donation.

Father Ted invited everyone to a service of anointing on Sunday April 20th at 3.30pm. This is for anyone who is feeling unwell and would like to be anointed with holy oil.