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.