Second Sunday of Advent

The second candle was lit on the Advent crown as we reflected on the role of John the Baptist in the Christmas story. We sang a new chant, Come to Us, O Emmanuel written by Marty Haugen.
This afternoon, senior parishioners have their Christmas Party. There will be a tradecraft stall after both masses next wekend.
Don't forget the family Christingle Service on Sunday December 20th at 4pm followed by mince pies. Next Sunday, Rose Anderson will be showing us all how to make Christmas Cribs after mass. Don't miss it!
We were sad to hear of the death of Myra McNulty, wife of Mike McNulty. Please pray for her and all wh mourn her. May she rest in peace.

Christmas Liturgy at Sacred Heart

Here is the Christmas Liturgy to be celebrated at Sacred Heart Church, Bilton, Rugby.


Christmas Eve, December 24th, (Carol Service from 8.30pm, Mass at 9pm)
O come O come Emmanuel
The Angel Gabriel

Flame of Hope (music group)
Like a Candle Flame
The Nativity Carol (music group)
Every star shall sing a carol
A Child is Born in Bethlehem (music group)
O Little Town of Bethlehem
On Christmas Night All Christians Sing

The First Mass of Christmas
O Come All Ye Faithful!
Penitential rite: Taize
Gloria: Sacred Heart
Psalm: Today a Saviour is born to us
Gospel: Celtic (Walker)
Preparation of the Gifts: In the bleak midwinter
Sanctus: Inwood
Memorial acclamation: Traditional
Doxology and Great Amen: Lourdes
Lamb of God: Inwood
Communion: Gift of God...
Silent Night
Once in Royal David's City
Going forth: Hark the Herald Angels Sing  

Christmas Day, December 25th, (Carol Service from 9.15am, Mass at 9.30am)
Earth lies spellbound
Do you hear what I hear?
Calypso Carol
O come all ye faithful
Ding Dong Merrily

Christmas Day Mass
Come and join the celebration
Penitential rite: Benedict
Gloria: Benedict
Psalm: Today a Saviour is born to us
Gospel: Celtic (Walker)
Preparation of the Gifts: Away in a manger
Sanctus: Burntwood (CJM)
Memorial acclamation: Burntwood (CJM)
Doxology and Great Amen: Lourdes
Lamb of God: Inwood
Communion:
Gift of God
Silent Night
Once in Royal David's City
Going forth: Hark the Herald Angels Sing

Feast of the Holy Family (Sunday December 27th 2009)
Gathering: Ding Dong Merrily
Penitential Rite: Burntwood
Gloria: Milton
Psalm: O blessed are those who fear the Lord
Gospel Acclamation: Taize
Gifts: It Came Upon the Midnight Clear
Holy holy: Burntwood
Acclamation: Traditional
Lamb of God: Burntwood
Communion: In the Lord I'll be ever thankful
Away in a manger
Going forth: See amid the winter's snow

Feast of the Epiphany (Sunday January 3rd 2008)
Gathering: The First Nowell
Penitential Rite: Rugby
Gloria: Bilton
Psalm: All nations shall fall prostrate before you
Gospel Acclamation: Taize
Gifts: The Coventry Carol
Holy holy: Ballantyne and Kelly
Acclamation: Traditional
Lamb of God: Farrell
Communion: As with gladness men of old
God rest ye merry
Going forth: We Three Kings

33rd Sunday of Year B

The sun shone after yesterday's torrential rain and high winds. It was Prisoners' Sunday and Deacon John preached about his career in the police service.
A number of big events are in the offing. Next Sunday, we celebrate 50 years of parish life with a special mass at 11am followed by a share lunch. Former parish priest Father Paul Chamberlain will be returning for the service.
The UCM Mince Pie evening is always well supported and that will be on Wednesday November 25th from 7.30pm. Tickets are now available.
The Parish Concert, last Saturday, raised about £150 for the parish toilets fund. Well done to everyone involved. You can see pictures from the night by looking at the parish website front page. The picture above is also from the concert.
A new acting headteacher, Phyllis Collins, has been appointed for St Marie's Junior School. She takes up her position in January and takes over from Stuart Hallahan who has been acting headteacher since September.

Feast of All Saints, Year B

The weather was not good - howling winds and pouring rain greeted parishioners this morning. However, our spirits were high as we sang 'the Kingdom of Heaven' and 'Saints of God in Glory'. We also had a new penitential rite to enjoy today.
Father Ted was today's preacher, talking about the real meaning of holiness and looking back to his days in the novitiate.
The parish concert takes place next Saturday and about 80 tickets have been sold so far. Orders are also being taken for the parish Christmas cards, and people are being invited to put their names down for the parish senior citizens' Christmas party. The picture is Father Ted at last year's parish concert.

30th Sunday of Year B

There was a slightly lower attendance this week - a little strange because we had put the clocks back last night giving every an extra hour! There were prayers for Shiobhan Day who sadly died during the week. Please pray for her mother Maureen and all who mourn her. Also, congratulations to Pat McGreevy, one of the founding members of our parish, who will be 90 years old this week.
Wednesday is a special day for the UCM who will be celebrating their 30th anniversary with a Mass and shared table from 7pm. Bruce Kent will be visiting the parish on Thursday to give a talk in our Living Faith series. Tickets are still available from 810886.
Tickets are selling well for the parish concert on November 7th. About 60 tickets have been sold so far, with more on sale after both masses next weekend.
The icon of peace will remain in the church for a few more days. Please try and get to see it.

Icon of Peace visits Sacred Heart

Here are some images from the Pax Christi Icon of Peace which is currently visiting Sacred Heart Church. The icon was created at the Monastery of St John in the Desert near Jerusalem and was given to Pax Christi in 1999. Prayer cards and information are available from the church. The icon is very impressive (much better than these pictures suggest!).

The Gospel of St Luke

Here is the text of Brian Davies' lecture (pictured) on St Luke, giving to the Living Faith evening at Sacred Heart Church hall in October.

Luke’s Good News of Reconciliation

A. Background on Luke

• His Gospel was probably written just before 70 AD at Antioch (some 40 years after the resurrection of Jesus). Then a second book (Acts). [According to some scholars Acts came first]. Some argue for an earlier date; others put it even as late as 80 AD.

• He draws on Matthew(Aramaic), Sayings, but especially Mark.

Meanwhile Matthew(Greek) wrote his Gospel at same time in Palestine.

• Luke was a cultured Greek-speaking Gentile (the only NT non-Jew). He tells his story in a world context (rather than Jewish). He is a great & stylish story- writer.

• Other NT writers had some contact with Jesus first and then saw the Church emerge. Luke comes to know Jesus through his experience of Church (Acts); he discovers Jesus (just as we do). In this sense Luke is closer to us than the other NT writers.

• Luke was a travelling physician (who accompanied Paul), was aware of the world and diagnosed it as seriously sick. Healing is by stimulating something within (to a large extent the body heals itself). Jesus is seen as someone who affirms goodness where-ever he finds it.

• Luke is amazed by communities he meets living an alternative lifestyle: he discovers the ‘Spirit of Jesus’ (Acts 16:7) – as we do – in ordinary people, living in communities formed around the memory of Jesus. Individuals experience the Spirit of Jesus in their lives, empowering them to overcome evil. Hence the joy.

• But he is also aware of failure. Out of 32 sinful situations in the Gospels & Acts he has 27 – but the emphasis is on the goodness in people and reconciliation possible for everyone.

• The Gospel has been variously described as ‘the Gospel of the Poor’, ‘the Gospel of Universal Salvation’, ‘the Gospel of Women’, ‘the Gospel of the Spirit’. Luke describes many meals and there is joy everywhere (50 times). While Luke’s Gospel mentions kingdom 38 times and church not at all, Acts has church 19 times but not kingdom.

• Luke's Gospel gives a good idea of his character as one who loved the poor, who wanted the door to God's kingdom opened to all, who respected women, and who saw hope in God's mercy for everyone.

• The two books of Luke have ‘journey’ as a central theme: Jesus’ journey up to Jerusalem (Gospel); the journey of the Church from Jerusalem to ‘the ends of the earth’ (Acts). Acts ends with the Gospel being proclaimed in Rome, the end of the known world.

B. Peace & Reconciliation

Luke 1&2. The Infancy Narrative is not primarily stories to entertain children, but a prologue (using midrash) with deep theological meaning to all that follows. God visits his people, which is good news to the poor and brings joy to the world. It ends with the ascent to Jerusalem where the Christ must suffer to enter his glory with the Father.

Luke 3. The Baptism of Jesus is quite unlike the other accounts. The ‘Spirit ‘ comes to Jesus, not while being baptised, but afterwards while privately at prayer. Luke indicates how everyone can discern that Spirit. [cf. JPII: Dominum et Vivificantem].

Luke remains faithful to his ‘pagan’ roots: he traces Jesus’ ancestry back, not just to David and Abraham, but to ‘Adam, son of God’. The Gospel outreach is universal.

Luke 4. Jesus reads from Isaiah 61 in the synagogue of Nazareth, his hometown. They knew “the lord’s Year of Favour” meant Jubilee (Leviticus 25). Jesus makes clear: the message of liberation (for the poor, the blind, the oppressed...) was being fulfilled there and then ie he proclaimed ‘Jubilee’. According to Luke, he won the approval of all – even though it refers to his being anointed (ie Christ) & the spirit being given to him. Yet the same congregation a few verses later wanted to put Jesus to death. So what had happened? Jesus had referred to God’s favour outside of Israel. Jubilee is for everyone, not just for them but for all humankind; and for all time. They just couldn’t accept this message of universal peace &reconciliation.

Ultimately the issue is about how far God’s Spirit is accessible to everyone. Jesus’ final conflict is with the priestly caste and he dies for this.

This passage (4:16-21) amounts to a programme, like a political manifesto.

Luke addresses both rich and poor

(a) Good News for the poor; grim news for the rich

• He has pulled down princes from their thrones and exalted the lowly.

The hungry he has filled with good things, the rich sent empty away. (1:52-53)

• How happy are you who are poor: yours is the kingdom of God (6:20)

But alas for you who are rich; you are having your consolation now. (6:24)

• For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled,

And the man who humbles himself will be exalted. (14:11 & 18:14; cf. 13:30)

• Dives and Lazarus (16:19-31)

(b) Jesus doesn’t condemn riches as such (7:36, 11:37, 14:1&7). He tells us what to do with riches (8 times). The rich are condemned for greed and unwillingness to share.

He accepts help from the rich 8:3, 5:10, 23:50-53

But money can be a hindrance: It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. (18:25)

(c) Luke mentions the abuse of ownership by the powerful 18 times.

The poor or miserable (πτοκοι) are mentioned15 times. In Acts these are called needy (ενδηας) and the community responds to their need.

(d) Luke’s solution is for the rich to befriend the poor and eat together (great equaliser).

Jesus is shown at meals with the rich (5:29-32, 7:36-50, 14:1-24, 19:5-10).

He also hosts meals (9:10-17, 22:14-20, 24:13-35, 24:36-42).

Luke 15. The Prodigal Son – maybe should be called The Prodigal Father

This is the wonderful story of a father’s unconditional love. We might have expected it of a mother but even more powerful of a father. And the attitude of the other son makes it even more of a human story. The son’s motives are mixed but the father forgives before he hears a word. It is all about love, reconciliation and joy.

Luke 19. Zacchaeus – the humorous story of Z’s conversion – written off by others (and maybe by himself). He is amazed that Jesus wants to be his guest. Jesus flushes out the goodness left in him, saying: he too is a son of Abraham, causing Z to go over the top in his conversion and consequent promises.

Luke 23. Jesus dies, though he had done no wrong, quite simply because he was a good man (cf. the witness of the good thief and the centurion). He dies to bring about the dream of bringing all nations together; through him we are reconciled with the Father. [Luke formulates a quite different redemptive theology to that of Mark, Matthew and John].

26th Sunday of Year B

The sun was shining for the beginning of the autumn season and there was a good attendance at Sunday mass. Father Ted was today's preacher and he discussed the role of bankers in the recent recession.
This week, the Living Faith talks will begin on Thursday night. Unfortunately the scheduled speaker Ken Collins is ill, so Brian Davies will be filling in with a talk on the same theme. Tickets are still available.
Tickets will also soon be available for the parish concert which is on Saturday November 7th.
Friday is family fast day so please make a donation to Cafod with the envelope provided.
Last week's collection gathered £418 for the parish, £36 for Cafod, and £94 for Case.
The picture is from last year's parish concert.

25th Sunday of Year B

For some strange reason, our numbers were a little depleted this week, especially in the music group which was down to about five people from the usual dozen or so. We still enjoyed a good and prayerful celebration of the resurrection of Jesus.

Today we listened to a pastoral letter from Bishop Kenny about the importance of Father Hudson's society which will be having a collection next week.

It is not long until the start of the Living Faith talks and places are still available. Bruce Kent is one of the speakers. Contact Brian Davies for more details.

Also, the parish concert will be taking place in the church hall on Saturday November 7th. It may be near bonfire night, so let's hope it goes with a bang! If you can contribute an act, the organisers would like to hear from you. Please see John Howes or Greg Floyd.

The UCM tea and cake evening raised £280 for the parish toilets refurbishment. Last week's collection raised £382 for the parish and £37 for Cafod, and £100 for Racial Justice.

The picture shows Father Ted from last year's parish concert.

24th Sunday of the Year

There was a good-sized congregation for this Sunday. Deacon John was our preacher and it was good to welcome back Father Ted from his holiday. We had a couple of new pieces of music to learn to refresh the parts of the mass. These seemed to go well - thanks also to a big turnout from the music group.

It is not long now until the Living Faith talks return. Brian Davies spoke to the congregation at the end of mass, saying tickets were still available. The theme this year is Peace and Reconciliation and there is an impressive list of guest speakers.

The parish council meets again this Thursday at 7.30pm and everyone is welcome to attend. Last week's collection raised £534 with a further £40 for Cafod.

The midweek tea and cakes evening organised by the UCM was a success with profits going towards the parish toilets fund.

The picture shows part of the jubillee display currently in the parish hall and narthex.

22nd Sunday of the Year

It is almost the end of the summer holidays, and numbers were starting to get back to normal at Sunday mass this week. Father Ted was today's celebrant and preacher and we had a strong music group. Hugh Potter provided drum solo for the Peruvian Gloria led by Richard Potter.

Next week, the children's liturgy will be beginning again and the newsletter will return to normal. Don't forget the UCM tea and cake evening on Thursday September 10th, and the series of Living Faith talks beginning on Thursday nights in October. Speakers will include Bruce Kent, pictured.

17th Sunday of Year B

There was a rather sparse congregation today for Sunday Mass with many people away enjoying their summer holidays. The celebrant was Father Ted, and Deacon John (pictured) was the preacher reflecting on mental health issues and sharing. We sang Bread for the World with Richard Potter as soloist for the verses.

There are two funerals coming up - for Ann Widnall on Monday at 10.30am, and Margaret Loveridge on Monday August 3rd at 10am. Please pray for them.

About 50 people have so far said they will be attending the parish barbecue next Sunday to mark the 50th anniversary (to the very day) of the first mass celebrated in Sacred Heart parish. Everyone is welcome to come along from midday onwards. There will be games for the children.

16th Sunday of Year B

Father Ted was back with us today, talking about forgiveness in his homily. There was also a talk about the work of the Catenians at the end of mass.
This is the first week of the school holidays. Numbers were slightly down but not dramatically so.
The parish barbecue is just two weeks away - on August 2nd. This is exactly 50 years since the first mass at Sacred Heart. Please put your name on the list in the entrance hall to allow organisers to plan the catering. It is £1 per head, with hot dogs and burgers and soft drinks supplied.
It was good to see Tony Valentine back at mass after a serious operation this week.

15th Sunday of the Year

Father Joe Bridenbach was again our guest celebrant today. The forthcoming school summer holidays have already made an impact with numbers noticably down on last week. Today's planned retreat has been cancelled because of a lack of interest from parishioners.

There were prayers for Tony Valentine who has been taken ill and is in hospital.

The social committee meets next Saturday at 10am to plan the parish barbecue on Sunday August 2nd.

The image is of the picture exhibition showing the history of the parish.

The 14th Sunday of Year B

It's been a balmy week and there was no let-up in the hot weather today. Father Joe Bridenbach was visiting us to celebrate mass and we introduced a new song, Blessed Those Whose Hearts Are Gentle, by Bernadette Farrell, to conclude our liturgy.

There is not long now until the parish retreat next Sunday. So far, only a handful have signed up, so please take a chance this week to add your name to the list.

There were special prayers for Michael Floyd today, congratulating him on 20 years as headteacher at St Marie's Juniors. He is retiring shortly, and there was a surprise party for him on Saturday night attended by present and former colleagues to wish him well.

Solemnity of Saints Peter and St Paul

The sun shone as we gathered to celebrate this important feast day. Brian Davies of Cafod was our speaker, talking about the charity's new climate justice campaign. Parishioners were invited to sign up to the campaign.

This afternoon, a new venture gets underway at church. Some of our younger parishioners will be staging a prayer and praise service in the hall at 5pm. It has been organised by Greg Floyd, Paul and Hannah Francis, and Hugh Potter. It promises to be a lively occasion, with refreshments afterwards.

Don't forget Sunday July 12th when the parish retreat takes place. Redemptorist Father Tim Buckley will be guiding us through the day. All events take place in the church buildings and a shared table will be provided for lunch. Sign up in the narthex to make sure of your place.

The picture is from the recent parish jubilee service.

Twelfth Sunday of Year B

Parishioners old and new gathered on Friday night to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Sacred Heart parish. The Mayor of Rugby was among the dignitaries present at the service, which coincided with the Feast of the Sacred Heart.
A parish worship band had been formed to accompany a lively service which included contributions from parishioners Mary Reynolds, Chris Browning and Laura Mahon along with Father Ted's homily. A procession of parishioners brought various items to the altar which represented the many different groups which make up the life of the parish.
After the service, a shared table was enjoyed in the hall with many guests staying as late as 11pm. An exhibition of photographs detailed the history of the parish with many current parishioners nearly unrecognisable!
On Sunday, perhaps as a result of the celebration on Friday, numbers were certainly down although it was a quiet and enjoyable service. There was good news for parishioner Michael Floyd who has been awarded the Diocesan Ubi Caritas Medal in recognition of his services to education.

Sunday 14th June 2009

Glorious sunshine greeted everyone at church today - a special day for six young parishioners who received the sacrament of confirmation. The service was celebrated by Bishop William Kenny. Congratulations to all of the candidates.

It is going to be a busy week for the parish. On Thursday, we have our parish agm at 7.30pm when the positions of chair, vice-chair and secretary will be filled for another year.

Then on Friday, we mark the 50th birthday of the parish with a special service at 7.30pm. The whole parish is invited to come along, and there will also be other clergy, civic dignitaries and former parishioners present.

There will also be a display of pictures showing the history of the parish.

Feast of the Holy Trinity, June 7th 2009

Torrential rain greeted everyone this morning - and it certainly showed in a relatively low attendance. Father Joe Briedenback was our guest celebrant and we welcomed Father Alan Bell who spoke to us about the work of the Crusade of the Holy Spirit.
Preparations are well in hand for the parish jubilee service on Friday June 19th at 7.30pm. There are just a few categories on the food list waiting to be filled up. It will be a busy week - the parish annual meeting is on Thursday June 18th, and the Bishop will be visiting for the Confirmation service on Sunday June 12th.
There will be a music rehearsal for the jubilee service on Sautrday June 12th at 2pm in the church. Anyone, absolutely anyone, who can sing or play an instrument will be welcome. The picture is another one taken at the Easter Vigil.

Sunday May 31st, Pentecost

Today we celebrated the birthday of the Church - the great Feast of Pentecost. To mark the occasion, we had a guest speaker, the Jesuit Father Ron Darwin. He spoke about the feast, and about its relevance to the parish's jubilee celebration this year to mark our 50th birthday.

Preparations are going well for the jubilee service on Friday June 19th at 7.30pm. Former parishioners and civic dignitaries have been invited. A chart on the wall shows the progress of the shared supper with parishioners pulling together to provide a sumptous feast.

Regrettably the parish games night has had to be cancelled. This was scheduled for Friday June 5th. Only three tickets were sold despite plenty of publicity - so the people have spoken!

The holiday club cycle finishes next Sunday (June 7th) so make sure you are paid up to be in with a chance of winning the £1,000 top prize.

It was good to see former parishioners Joseph and Christine Burr back visiting the parish today with Katherine and Alexander.

Sixth Sunday of Easter, May 17 2009

Torrential rain this morning, and for much of the weekend. Still, spirits are high. During the week there was an excellent talk by David McGouglin on Jesus and Jubilee, together with a very tasty shared meal.
On June 5th there will be the parish games night. Tickets are already selling. Then on Friday June 19th we have our parish jubilee celebration - a 50th birthday service and party. It is hoped that all parishioners will be able to attend as well as former parishioners, friends and civic dignitaries.
Last Sunday, we had the bluebell walk and talk. About 30 parishioners joined the walk in glorious sunshine. The bluebells were stunning and the tea tasty. Well done to all involved.

Fifth Sunday of Easter, May 10th 2009

Bright sunshine today in readiness for the parish bluebell walk this afternoon. Not quite so many people at mass as last week when we had our First Communion celebration. Eight young parishioners received communion for the first time and celebrated with a party afterwards.

Tickets were on sale today for Thursday's talk by theologian David McLoughlin on the subject of jubilee. About 50 tickets have been sold so far - only £2 to include a buffet meal! There is still time to get your ticket. Contact Brian Davies on 810886.

Tickets will also be on sale shortly for the parish games night on Friday June 5th from 7pm to 9pm in the hall and parish grounds. Something for all the family - quizzes, beetle drive, bingo - and a treasure hunt and PlayStation. Come along. Adults £2, children free.

Excitement is mounting for the parish 50th birthday service on Friday June 19th. Former parishioners, clergy and civic dignitaries are being invited - along with all parishioners! The service is at 7.30pm followed by a shared table.

The picture, above, was taken at the Easter Vigil.

Third Sunday of Easter, April 26, 2009

The sun shone today and there was a good attendance at Sunday mass. There is just a week to go until the First Communion celebration. Your prayers are requested for the eight children preparing for their big day.
Mobile phones are piling up. We have 15 - and 50 are needed in all to meet our recycling target. Proceeds to Cafod.
Your pictures of parish history are also needed for the display in June when we celebrate 50 years of the parish.
Our confirmation programme gets underway on Friday. There will be four candidates this time around.
Tickets are being sold for the talk on May 14 about jubilee by David McLoughlin, a well-known speaker. There is a supper too, only for £2. See Brian Davies.
The parish website is off the air because we forget to pay the bill! Normal service should be resumed soon.
Last night's Rugby Male Voice Choir concert is the church was well attended and many said how much they enjoyed it. Well done to all involved.

Easter pictures at Sacred Heart

View pictures of Easter at Sacred Heart by clicking on this link.
Easter pictures

Second Sunday of Easter, April 19th 2009

Here is a picture from our Easter celebrations last week.

Glorious sunshine as we come back together for the second Sunday of Easter. Father Ted preaches about doubting Thomas and trust - trust that he had to have when he abseiled down the cliffs of Dover.

We looked ahead to Saturday's concert in the church by the Rugby Male Voice Choir. About 30 tickets are so far sold for the show which also features folk group The Withered Arm and a parish youth worship group. It's one not to miss, and tickets will also be on sale on the door (priced £5).

Our confirmation programme begins on Friday, and it's only two weeks until First Communion Sunday.

Tickets will be on sale next week for the Jubilee talk on May 14th with David McLoughlin, an entertaining speaker who will talk about Jesus and Jubilee. Tickets are only £2 to include a buffet meal.

Don't forget to bring along soon your pictures from parish events over the past 50 years, and any old mobile phones you have which can be recycled for Cafod.

Easter, 2009

Christ is Risen! Alleluia! A very happy Easter to all followers of this blog, whether you are a current, past or possibly future parishioner.

I am writing this ahead of the Easter Vigil, but I am sure it was a joyous celebration of the great feast of Easter, the high point of the church's year.

Certainly we have been blessed with good attendances at both the Holy Thursday and Good Friday celebrations.

Other parish news - the planned concert by Blagovest, the Russian choir, has had to be cancelled because they have experienced problems with travelling and visas. We hope they will return next year. The Rugby Male Voice Choir tickets are on sale. Please don't miss this concert on Saturday April 25th. It is raising funds for two of our young parishioners to travel to help needy communities overseas.

Palm Sunday, April 5th 2009

It was a lovely sunny day for Palm Sunday and our worship began in the hall with the gospel reading. We then processed around the church and into the main entrance to hear the reading of the Gospel according to St Mark. Inevitably quite a few people had gone away so the congregation was a little smaller than normal.
There are a number of important services this week - a service of reconciliation on Tuesday night, then the Mass of the Last Supper on Thursday, the Celebration of the Passion on Friday (plus Stations of the Cross), and the highpoint of the church's year - The Easter Vigil - on Saturday night at 8.30pm. Please try to get along to the wonderful Easter Triduum if you can.
Another Easter special is the traditional UCM Easter basket which was raffled off in the hall after mass today.
If you enjoy music, don't forget to buy your tickets for the Rugby Male Voice Choir concert in the church on Saturday April 25th. As well as the choir, our youth music group, plus The Withered Arm (a folk group comprising parishioners) will be on the bill. Tickets are a real bargain at £5 a piece with proceeds going to a fund to support Hugh Potter and Maciek Hume who are travelling overseas next year to help communities in need.

Fifth Sunday of Lent, March 29th 2009

Valerie Flessati, vice-president of Pax Christi, was the guest speaker at both weekend masses. She came to tell us about the experience of jubilee in her parish in London (St Mellitus in Finsbury Park). She was available to speak to parishioners after mass. Valerie was the second of three guest preachers visiting the parish this year to mark our 50th anniversary.
Today will also be a special day for those children making their First Communion. They will be
having their own 'last supper' meal this afternoon with a short service in the church.
It was a lovely sunny morning, though numbers were a little down, as the clocks had been put forward during the night. Interestingly, numbers were reported as being up on Saturday night.
As we move towards Palm Sunday and the Easter Triduum, there will be a final Lent lunch this Friday.
There will be a fundraising concert at Sacred Heart on Saturday April 25th at 7.30pm by Rugby Male Voice Choir, supported by parish folk group The Withered Arm and our youth worship and. Tickets are £5. See Hugh Potter or Macziek Hulme.

Parish Calendar

4th Sunday of Lent, March 22nd 2009

Today we marked the 30th anniversary of the Sacred Heart branch of the UCM. From this picture, you can see a new banner which was blessed today by Father Ted. The artwork is excellent. Congratulations to all involved. Come along and have a look at the banner.
Many parishoners had enjoyed the new musical, 2020, performed at St Marie's Junior School over the weekend.
There were prayers and flowers for mothers as it was Mother's Day. The children returned from their liturgy with presents for all the mums.
We also had an appeal today from the Survive-RIVA charity which raises money for missionary transport.
Don't miss mass next weekend when we will have a special guest to speak about the parish jubilee.

The Third Sunday of Lent, March 15th 2009

Beautiful sunshine greeted us this morning, and there is a definite sense of spring in the air. There were not quite as many people at mass as last week, but still a very healthy attendance including plenty of youngsters. Today we had a letter from the Archbishop on the subject of Mother's Day and people with disabilities.

A service of reconciliation has been announced for the Tuesday of holy week. It will be at 7pm.

After mass there was a tasty treat courtesy of the Mahon family. A cake sale was raising money for Laura's trip in aid of the Joshua Foundation. She is one of three teenagers in the parish planning trips to help others. Good luck to all of them.

Lent lunches continue on Fridays throughout the season. Please come along at 12.15pm for some soup and a roll.

Next Sunday, Mother's Day, the UCM will have their new banner blessed to mark the 30th anniversary of their foundation. Congratulations! Tickets will also be on sale for the traditional Easter basket. Always tempting.

Meanwhile, keep an eye out for a missing pair of spectacles. They belong to Trudie White.

Second Sunday of Lent, Year B, March 8th

For some reason, and no one seems to know, there was a huge turnout for Sunday Mass today, including a large number of children. All very welcome, of course. Deacon John preached today about how we cope with bad news.

Lent lunches are taking place every Friday, with Stations of the Cross on Friday evenings.

There were prayers for Meg White who died during the week. We pray for her, for her husband Steve and their family. May she rest in peace.

Next Sunday, there will be a cake stall after both masses. This will be organised by Laura Mahon and will raise funds for the Joshua Foundation.

Volunteers are needed to help with the tea and coffee rota after weekend masses. This is a very important role and the more volunteers we get, the less frequent they will be needed. Please call Mary Cook on 334240.

Don't forget to bring along your old mobile phones. Each one can raise £3 for Cafod.

First Sunday of Lent, March 1st 2009

So we have arrived at the beginning of Lent, and there was a large turnout for Sunday Mass. There will be Stations of the Cross in the church on Friday at 7pm, and Lent lunches each Friday at 12.45pm.

Today was also a special day because it was the start of our Jubilee celebrations. Sacred Heart parish will be 50 years old in August this year. Parish council chair Brian Davies spoke at both masses this week about the meaning of jubilee. He also distributed a card listing all the main events taking place during the year to mark the event. These cards are available in the narthex, and most of the information is also on the parish website.

Last night, the first of the events took place - parish quiz night attended by about 70 people, with Father Ted as questionmaster. It was an excellent event, well organised and a fun evening. Well done to everyone involved. There are plenty of other social events planned for the year.

Lent groups begin this week and the parish council meets on Thursday at 7.30pm. Everyone welcome. New members are needed to welcome people to church, and to help make the tea - both vital ministries, and your support would be appreciated. Please call Mary Cook.

Seventh Sunday of the Year, February 22nd

The sun was shining brightly yesterday and there was a feeling that spring was in the air. Today, it wasn't so bright, but the year is passing quickly - and Lent begins this Sunday.

Ashes will be distributed at the 7pm service and there will be Stations of the Cross each Friday at 7pm (see the parish diary on the website). A series of Lent groups will be meeting throughout Bilton focussing on a green theme.

Don't forget the parish annual meeting on Thursday March 5th at 7.30pm in the hall. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Excitement is mounting for the parish quiz next Saturday. Already about 40 people have said they are coming, but there is room for a few more. Please let Father Ted know before the event, so the fish and chips can be ordered.

More helpers are needed for the welcoming team at both weekend masses. This is a vital ministry and at present, there is only a four-week cycle. With a bit more help, the volunteers would get a longer rest! Please ocnsider this.

So far, five mobile phones have been handed in. The parish target is 50. If you have an old one, take the SIM card out and drop the phone into the parish foyer.

Fifth Sunday of Year B, February 8th 2009

The snow lay deep and crisp and even around the church after a week of blizzards. There was still a good turnout of people to celebrate our Sunday mass.

Today was education Sunday and also a day of prayer for the sick. We prayed also for Anne Thomas who died in the week, for her husband and family.

There was news too of the parish quiz which will be on Saturday February 28th at 7.30pm in the hall. This is the third year we have run the quiz and it has always been popular. Tickets, priced at £3.50 to include fish and chips, are available after masses.

Don't forget there will be a service of anointing of the sick on Sunday February 15th at 3pm.

If anyone has an old mobile phone, these can now be brought to church and recycled in aid of Cafod. Don't forget to remove the SIM card.

There will be a cake stall on March 14/15 organised by Laura Mahon to raise money for her expedition to help the Joshua Foundation. Offers of cakes will be appreciated.

Fourth Sunday of Year B, February 1st 2009

Healing the sick was the theme of today's mass with Father Ted, in his sermon, talking about a service of anointing of the sick which will be taking place on Sunday February 15th (see the parish calendar).

Father Ted emphasised that this is not just for those who are dying, but for anyone who is feeling very unwell.

On Thursday, there will be a special morning of prayer for vocations in the diocese. There will be exposition in the day chapel from 10am to noon and everyone is invited to come along and spend some time in silent prayer.

The parish environment committee met again after mass today. One of their first schemes is to collect 50 used mobile phones. These can be turned into cash for Cafod (as much as £3 per phone apparently). If you have a used one, take the SIM card out, and drop it in the box in the narthex.

The Conversion of St Paul, January 25th 2009

To mark the year of St Paul, we celebrated his conversion today. Normally this liturgy is held on a weekday, but the church has suggested it could be used on a Sunday to emphasise the importance of Paul this year. Father Ted spoke about Christian unity, its importance and how it is not an option but a necessity. He also spoke about conversion, and how a Hindu he had known had been affected by reading a passage from St Paul.
It's been a busy week in the parish with the parish-in-council deciding on a busy programme to mark the jubilee (50 years) of Sacred Heart parish. A leaflet will be issued shortly listing all the events that are being planned. There will be a mixture of reflection, action and celebration - so something for everyone hopefully.
On the subject of celebration, today is a special day for one of our youngest parishioners - Holly Rebecca Francis will be baptised at 1pm on Sunday and, judging by the size of the drums being taken into the church, it promises to be a lively service!
Father Ted is asking for volunteers to join a small group to put on services at the Hospital of St Cross. The parish has been asked to prepare three services this year.

Second Sunday of Year B, January 18th

The sun shone as we gathered on the second Sunday of the year. It was both a day of prayer for peace on earth, and the beginning of the week of prayer for Christian Unity. From the Holy Land, finally some good news in the ongoing conflict.
Tonight is the Unity Service in Bilton at the Methodist Church at 6.30pm, and, on a busy day, Sacred Heart is also organising the hospital service at St Cross at 2.15pm. Everyone is welcome to both events.
There has been much activity in the parish over the past couple of weeks preparing for the parish jubilee (50 years in August) and for an important parish -in-council meeting on Thursday. Groups covering areas such as caring, the environment, formation, social events and worship have met to come up with ideas. It looks like being a packed, and enjoyable year of celebration and renewal.
Already the Sacred Heart Care Group has been re-formed. The key number is 07949 155302. Call Tricia if you, or anyone you know, needs bereavement support, advice on fertility awareness, transport help, or if you know an elderly or sick person in need of visiting. There is also support for young families in need of volunteer grandparents.
Tickets are selling well for the Churches Together barn dance on Saturday January 24th at the Crescent School. Volunteers are being sought by the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust to maintain Cock Robin Wood. Details on the church noticeboard.

The Baptism of the Lord, January 11th 2009

The holy water was flying in all directions today as Father Ted blessed everyone on this feast of the Baptism of Jesus. We sang O Living Water during what is called the Asperges.

Many parishioners have been busy attending task groups in the parish. These are meeting over the next couple of weeks to plan events and ideas for parish jubilee. The social task group met on Saturday and the 'reaching out to others' and caring groups have also gathered. Next Saturday, the worship group meets at 10am with everyone welcome.

The parish book swap scheme is underway with plenty of books, dvds and jigsaws coming in. If you have something good to share, please bring it along.

There were prayers today for Tina Heathcock's father, Roger, who has died. We pray for Tina and her mother. May he rest in peace.

Tickets are selling like hot cakes for the Churches Together barn dance on Saturday January 24th. Grab one quick if you can!

Solemnity of the Epiphany, January 4 2009

Happy new secular year to all readers of this blog. Today was the feast of the Epiphany - and a joyous celebration at Sacred Heart. The kings have moved to the crib to bring their gifts, and the children came back from their special liturgy dressed as kings.

We sang We Three Kings, The First Nowell and As With Gladness Men of Old, and now we put the carols away until next Christmas.

Father Ted was today's preacher, speaking about what gifts we can offer to God - and often the gift of ourselves, and our appreciation, is the best we have to offer.

This is the year of the parish jubilee - 50 years since Sacred Heart parish was founded in August 1959. Task groups, for which their have been several dozen volunteers, will be meeting in the first weeks of January to come up with ideas how we can mark this great anniversary.

Check out the new diary of events on our website. This is replicated on the blog.

Major events coming up include the unity service and barn dance.

A new swap-a-book service began this week. Bring a book you have read recently, and swap it for another. No money will change hands. Similarly you may have a jigsaw you have enjoyed completing.