Lourdes Sanctuary and the River Gave, France

Site Maintenance and Caretaker

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Read more about Vocations in Southwark

Sea Sunday, which this year falls on 11th July in 2021, is a special time for Stella Maris (formerly called Apostleship of the Sea), the official maritime welfare agency of the Catholic Church. This is the day every year when the church celebrates and prays for all those who live and work at sea.

As a global maritime charity, Stella Maris has been playing a crucial role in supporting seafarers and fishers during the COVID-19 pandemic, and is continuing to offer spiritual and practical help to those most in need.

It has been well-documented how India has been struggling with a devastating second wave of coronavirus. Thousands have been dying on the streets as hospitals there find themselves running out of oxygen.
Now, though, more than 1,000 Indian seafarers’ families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic will benefit from support in the port of Cochin.
Through Stella Maris’s involvement, 10 oxygenators are being purchased.  This will prevent an estimated 60 lives a month being lost to the virus, amid a drastic shortage of oxygen tanks in hospitals.

With the support of the charity and its donors, 1,100 food parcels are also being purchased and distributed to seafarers’ families in Cochin devastated by COVID-19. Each parcel is sufficient to feed a family of five for one month.

In the meantime pandemic precautions in the United Kingdom have also led to the charity adopting different approaches to its work with seafarers and fishers around the UK.  For example, Stella Maris chaplains have delivered welfare packages to vessels’ gangways or via rope links to ships (see photo) to maintain social distancing protocols. These packages comprise essentials such as PPE equipment, clothing, toiletries and foodstuffs.

Seafarers have expressed their particular gratitude for being able to stay in touch with their families, through Stella Maris’ provision of internet access in ports thanks to Wi-Fi Units, and when this has not been possible, top-up cards for mobile phones have been provided to seafarers by the charity. These have been invaluable to seafarers, as Captain Flover Santos, the Master of a tanker, expressed when Stella Maris in Tees port provided top-up cards to the crew who were not allowed to leave their ship to go ashore at any of the ports at which they were calling.


Seafarers need help now more than ever. A survey Stella Maris conducted found that 69% of seafarers suffered significant financial impact during the pandemic. Almost half said they support three or more people with their income, and their main prioity was feeding their families.
Financial worries like these and the stress that thousands face from having to spend more than a year on board due to extended contracts or, on the other hand, not having any work at all, has had a negative effect on their mental, emotional, and psychological wellbeing.

Adrian Gannon, Director of Development at Stella Maris, has appealed to Catholics throughout the United Kingdom to support Sea Sunday:

Aylesford Summer Fayre: Cancellation

Tuesday  3 –  Friday 6 August

Building a Better Marriage

Vocations Cafe

Rosary Relay Rally

Pastoral Letter for Pentecost

 Rosary Stronghold National Day of Prayer for Schools & Young People

As part of the Rosary Stronghold Mission, a day of Intercession for our Young People and the Mission of our Catholic Schools will take place on Monday 24th May 2021.

Communications Sunday

Image: Marcin Mazur

Laudato Si Week: 16th- 25th May 2021

View additional photos on
The Catholic Bishops' Conference Flickr Page

With thanks to Marcin Mazur

Prayers are requested across the Archdiocese of Southwark for the repose of the soul of The Very Reverend Kevin Alban, O.Carm., Prior Provincial of the Carmelites, who died peacefully on 4th May at Aylesford Priory.

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Bishop Paul McAleenan's Homily

Photographs of the 2021 Migrants' Mass at Forest Hill

The Bishops recognise that it is impossible to predict the pace at which we will emerge from the pandemic but state “what is clear is the challenge we face of bringing our communities and the practice of the faith to a still greater expression and strength.”They identify the groups of people they are seeking to reach:

• Those who have lost the habit of coming to church and who may be anxious about doing so.

Vestments bearing the St George's Cathedral Crest, overlooking a statue 
of St George in St George's Cathedral, Southwark

Relic of St George in St George's Cathedral, Southwark

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord,

and let the perpetual light shine upon him.

On Good Friday, 2 April 2021, the Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion at Christ the King Polish Catholic Church in Balham, South West London, was brought to an end by Officers of the Metropolitan Police Service. The Church is situated in the Archdiocese of Southwark. On Holy Saturday, 3 April 2021, the Archbishop of Southwark, the Most Reverend John Wilson, made a pastoral visit to the Parish. Together with the Metropolitan Police Service, a process of reflection has taken place resulting in the commitment of all parties to work together for healing through renewed collaboration and engagement in a spirit of friendship.
 
On the Second Sunday of Easter, Divine Mercy Sunday, 11 April 2021, Archbishop Wilson, together with Superintendent Roger Arditti and Detective Superintendent Andy Wadey of the Metropolitan Police Service visited the Polish Catholic Church of Christ the King.
 
At the end of the 10.45am Mass, Archbishop Wilson and Detective Superintendent Wadey each addressed the congregation. A message was also read on behalf of Mgr Stefan Wylężek, Vicar Delegate of the Polish Catholic Mission for England and Wales. The text of each of address is given below.

Address of the Most Reverend John Wilson

Archbishop of Southwark

Dear brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ

Chrystus zmartwychwstał!

It is a great joy to be able to greet you with these words on this Second Sunday of Easter, Divine Mercy Sunday. Christ is risen; He is risen indeed. In a special way we give thanks to God for the life and witness of St Maria Faustina Kowalska, the Apostle of Divine Mercy; and we thank St John Paul II who established this Feast of Divine Mercy throughout the whole Church. Thank you, Poland, for giving us these two remarkable saints. St Faustina and St John Paul, please pray for us.

The Gospel of St John recalls that, after the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus, the disciples were gathered in fear. But the risen Christ broke through the barriers of separation. He came and stood among them and said to them: ‘Peace be with you.’

Dear friends, we are all deeply saddened by the events that took place in this church on Good Friday afternoon. Since then, the genuine concerns of the Polish Catholic Mission, and Christ the King Parish community, have been heard directly by the Metropolitan Police Service. We all share the same desire to move forward in friendship, working together for the common good. We are committed to enabling freedom of worship for everyone, in safe and secure environments. We place our sorrow before the risen Lord who asks us to be instruments of his peace. 

Today, I am pleased to be accompanied by Superintendent Roger Arditti and Detective Superintendent Andy Wadey from the Metropolitan Police Service. We come at the invitation of the Rector of the Polish Catholic Mission in England and Wales, Mgr Stefan, and your Parish Priest, Mgr Władysław. I thank them for their kindness and the very fruitful conversations we have had together with the Police this past week. In a moment Detective Superintendent Wadey will address some words to each of you present here in the Church, and to every member of the Polish Catholic Community in Balham. Our presence with you is a sign of our commitment to work together for healing.

Immediately after this Mass, Superintendent Arditti and Dectective Superintendent Wadey will meet with me and your parish clergy and representatives to begin a conversation about how the Polish Catholic Community in Balham and the Metropolitan Police Service can work to enhance communication and engagement with each other.

On this beautiful Feast of Divine Mercy we remember some words of St Faustina: ‘The past does not belong to me; the future is not mine; with all my soul I try to make use of the present moment.’

My brothers and sisters, let us make use of this present moment, of every present moment, in the service of reconciliation. ‘Peace be with you,’ said the Risen Lord. Let us speak and hear these words to and from each other. 

I assure you of my prayers and blessing - to you, to your families, and to your loved ones.

Address of Detective Superintendent Andy Wadey, Metropolitan Police Service

Metropolitan Police Service - Frontline Policing
South West BCU Senior Leadership Team



Message to the Polish Catholic Parish of Christ the King, Balham


I would like to start by thanking you all for your invite to myself, Detective Supt Andy Wadey, and my colleague Supt Roger Arditti who is responsible for the local neighbourhood policing teams, to join you today, the Second Sunday of Easter, Divine Mercy Sunday. It is really important for us to be here, and I thank you all for the hand of friendship that you have shown us, and the Metropolitan Police.

The last year has been terrifically difficult for everyone in London. The pandemic has caused significant challenges for us all, and we have all had to live our lives differently. The restrictions have been challenging for everyone, including faith communities, and also on occasions for the MPS as we seek to keep people safe. The MPS is a community based policing service, and we are proud to serve all the communities of London, including all of you here and the wider Catholic and Polish communities.

We are all aware of the events that happened here in the afternoon of Good Friday. The intention of the MPS is to protect and support communities in staying safe during the pandemic. We know, however, that many people were very upset by what happened on Good Friday and we deeply regret that.

Since then, there has been significant reflection and learning by myself and Roger; our colleagues who work with us locally, and also Senior Leaders at New Scotland Yard.

The Metropolitan Police truly wishes to serve and protect you in the best possible way. I truly hope that today marks the start of a renewed deep and lasting relationship, with the Parish of Christ the King, Balham and also the wider Polish communities.

Once again, thank you for inviting us to join you today.

Address of Mgr Stefan Wylężek

Vicar Delegate of the Polish Catholic Mission for England & Wales

(Read by the Chancellor of the Polish Catholic Mission, Canon Krzysztof Tyliszczak)




Dear Sisters and Brothers

Today’s liturgy, which we celebrate as Divine Mercy Sunday, marks the end of the octave of the Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ. When Jesus came to his disciples in the evening of the day when He rose from the dead, He gave them two gifts: the gift of peace and the power to forgive sins. He did not rebuke them for their little faith, nor did He lecture them about how they should have conducted themselves during His agony and passion. He embraced them with His love, shocked and bruised as they were following the events of Good Friday. He embraces us today with that same love. Just as the Apostles moved on from their grief, so should we rise above the heartache. We need to be healed. All of us need healing: we, the priests under the leadership of Archbishop John; we, the parishioners of the Polish Catholic Mission in England and Wales; and the officers of the Metropolitan Police. All of those have something to say on the path to healing. Let us listen attentively to what each one has to say and hear what is said. Jesus said to Saint Faustina ‘I wish for the Feast of Divine Mercy to be a refuge for all souls.’ It is important that we should all want this.

I am unable to be with you in person today, since I have a long-standing commitment to visit the Parish of Divine Mercy in Slough, but I am with you in word and in spirit. I thank the Archbishop, who is with us once again at this difficult time as our Bishop. Thank you, Archbishop John, for being with us as we open our hearts to the presence of the Risen Lord. I thank fathers Władysław, Aleksander and Teodor of this parish. I would also like to thank the representatives of the Metropolitan Police for their presence.

Jesus will not come here today to show us his wounds, but it is He, who through the work of the Holy Spirit, will open our ears and our closed doors, enabling us to accept that He lives and, that His merciful love precedes us on our journey through this life.

Response of Mgr Władysław Wyszowadzki 

Parish Priest of Christ the King Polish Catholic Church, Balham


The interruption of the Good Friday liturgy was very painful for our parish community, but in the spirit of the Gospel, we willingly extend our hand to the representatives of the Police authorities in order to further build a deep and lasting relationship between us, based on mutual respect and regard for the rights of worshippers to freely practice their faith.
 
We ask you, Excellency, to bless both our work and that of the Police, in this difficult time of the pandemic. We would like to thank everyone for coming.

Further Information:

Archdiocese of Southwark Press Officer – Miss Jo Driver dco@rcaos.org.uk

Archbishop's Private Secretary - Father Philip Andrews aps@rcaos.org.uk
Images: with thanks to Marcin Mazur / CBCEW

Additional Images  (royalty free)
Courtesy of Marcin Mazur / CBCEW







Divine Mercy Sunday is celebrated on the Second Sunday of Easter and centres around Jesus' gift to mankind of unfathomable divine mercy and forgvieness of sins.  

The Feast came into being through the mediation of Sister Faustine Kowalska; a humble cloistered nun, who at the end of her life was based in Krakow, Poland. She received visions and held conversations with Jesus, beginning on 22nd February 1931, which she noted in her diary throughout that decade in The Diary of Sister Faustina Kowalska: Divine Mercy in my Soul.  

During her initial conversation with Jesus He asked her to "paint an image according to the pattern you see, with the signature 'Jesus I trust in you'" .  As she had no experience of painting she commissioned the now famous Divine Mercy image from Eugene Kazimierowski in 1934, with the help of Fr Michael Sopocko, her Confessor. On Good Friday in 1935, she wrote that Jesus had asked for the Divine Mercy Image to be honoured and it was first displayed at Mass on the Second Sunday of Easter 1935. The first holy cards with the Divine Mercy image were printed in July 1937.

Before her death from tuberculosis in 1938, Sister Faustina had predicted 'a terrible, terrible war' (World War II).  The devotion consequently became a source of comfort and strength to many in Poland, and duly spread to other countries. After her death, Kowalska's biography was sent to the Congregation for the Causes of Saints along with excerpts from her diary.

In 1956, Pope Pius XII blessed an image of the Divine Mercy in Rome and in 1965, Archbishop Wojtyla began the informative process on the life of Sister Faustina.  He later became Pope John Paul II and canonised the humble Sister in April 2000: her official Feast Day takes place each year on 5th October. On the 100th Anniversary of of the birth of Pope John Paul II, Pope Francis added Sister Faustina's Feast Day into the General Roman Calendar as an optional memorial, allowing it to be celebrated at Mass around the world.

Divine Mercy Sunday marks, in a special way, the conclusion of the Divine Mercy Novena, which many of the faiithful will have commenced on Good Friday. The Novena consists of praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet, attending both Confession within that period and receiving Holy Communion on the day itself.  Jesus' promise, through Sister Kowalska, was that the soul who undertakes this will receive total expiation from all sin and punishment, and will go straight to heaven.

Easter Sunday

 

I HAVE RISEN, AND I AM WITH YOU STILL, ALLELUIA!

As we celebrate together the fulfillment of God's promise, that mankind might be saved from death and darkness through the gift of eternal life, Archbishop John Wilson invites all to join him on Easter morning for the 10 am Family Mass, which will be livestreamed from St George's Cathedral

The Archdiocese of Southwark wishes its clergy, religious and laity a joyful and peaceful Easter.

View photographs from the Easter Family Mass at St George's Cathedral

Holy Week 2021

Mass for Palm Sunday 2021

Celebrated by Archbishop John Wilson
live from St George's Cathedral




Week 6: Entering Jerusalem [Mark 11:1-10]

The Metropolitan Cathedral of St George in Southwark is home to the Diocesan Shrine of St Oscar Romeo, situated in the Romero Chapel, between the older chapels of St Joseph and St Patrick.  It is a place of special pilgrimage and devotion for the entire Metropolitan Province and beyond. The centrepiece of the Shrine is the three-dimensional Romero Cross, whose faces were designed and painted by the Salvadoran artist, Fernando Llort.

The Cross contains a reliquary holding a precious fragment of the blood-stained alb that had formed part of Archbishop Romero’s martyrdom clothing as he celebrated Mass on 24 March in 1980 (now his Feast Day). This is the heart of the Shrine. Displayed alongside is a zucchetto: one of St Oscar Romero’s episcopal skullcaps. The Cross is overlooked by a bust of Archbishop Romero by the artist, Lado Goudjabidze.

The Shrine was inaugurated at an ecumenical service in 2013 and was formally designated a Diocesan Shrine with a decree issued by Archbishop Peter Smith on 14 October 2018, the day of Oscar Romero’s canonisation in Rome. In December 2019 Archbishop John Wilson issued statutes for the Shrine and appointed Canon Richard Hearn as Shrine Rector, together with four Guardians of the Shrine:  Mgr. Canon John O’Toole, Canon Alan McLean, Ms Katheen O’Brien and Mr Julian Filochowski. The four Guardians will be formally installed at this Mass, the process having been delayed due to Covid-19.

Limited places will be available in the Cathedral but all are welcome to join this special service via livestream from St George's Cathedral at 12.30 pm on Saturday 27th March 2021.

Holy Week Lent Retreat 

To find out more information visit the Kairos Centre

To book email mailto: bookings.kairos@psmgs.org.uk

National Day of Reflection on COVID-19

 
Father Stephen Wang will replace Monsignor Philip Whitmore, who has been Rector of the VEC since 2013. The VEC was founded in 1579 and since then has prepared priests to serve mainly in England and Wales, as well as being a home to priests undertaking further studies in Rome. There are currently 27 seminarians in formation for the priesthood and five priests engaged in further studies.  Most study at either the Gregorian University or the Angelicum.  As well as seminarians from England and Wales, there are seven from the Nordic countries, two from Ireland and one from Canada.  

Fr Stephen Wang, who studied at the VEC as part of his formation, will start his new ministry as Rector at the start of the new academic year in September. He said:
“I’ve been incredibly happy as a university chaplain in London, and it will be very hard to leave Newman House chaplaincy centre and say goodbye to students and staff across the universities. But I’m delighted to be starting at the Venerable English College in Rome. I have a great love for the seminary and for the city, and a love for the priesthood and the work of formation. I’m really looking forward to getting to know the seminarians and staff, and to building on the wonderful work that Mgr Whitmore has been doing as Rector. And yes, I’m also looking forward to savouring an authentic Roman pizza again and the finest ice cream in the world.”

Mgr Philip Whitmore, the current Rector, welcomed the appointment.
“I am delighted by the news of Fr Stephen Wang’s appointment as Rector of the Venerable English College and I thank the Lord for the eight truly blessed years I have been privileged to spend in this role.  The recent health crisis has made us more aware than ever of our need for priests and it is both a responsibility and a joy to be charged with the formation of priests to serve the next generation. We assure Fr Stephen of our prayers as he prepares for his new ministry.”

Cardinal Vincent Nichols said:
“I welcome most warmly the appointment of Fr Stephen Wang as the new Rector of the Venerable English College, Rome. Fr Stephen will bring to the College all his experience as a university Chaplain as well as his passion for proclaiming the Gospel in contemporary ways, a gift so much in keeping with the great traditions of the College. I thank Mgr Philip Whitmore whole-heartedly for his years of tireless service to the College and I look forward to welcoming him back to his Diocese in due course.”

For more information about the VEC go to Venerable English College visit www.vecrome.org

'Follow Me': Southwark Lent Online Retreat

 Led by Archbishop John Wilson
with Sister Anouska Robinson-Biggin FcJ
Week 4: ‘God so loved the world’ [John 3:14-21]

In week four of Southwark's Online Lent Retreat we explore the subject of 'discerning': God's love is shown in the gift of the Lord Jesus to the world. In this video we ask what gets in the way of trusting God’s invitation, what our personal image of Him might be and ultimately, how God is active within difficulties we may face.

This Retreat video also features an introduction to the Examen: a technique of prayerful reflection on the events of the day in order to detect God’s presence and discern his direction for us.

To find out more information, register for prayer resources or join an online Lent reflection group visit: http://www.southwarkdsc.org.uk/followme.



The diocesan Agency for Evangelisation and Catechesis has partnered with other dioceses to produce to survey which aims to find out about the experiences of Catholics during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The survey will help the Diocese to understand what has been happening whilst churches have been closed, or opened only for limited periods of time, and Catholics have had to practice their faith 'at a distance'.

Please consider contributing to ths survey, selecting the 'Archdiocese of Southwark' from the drop-down menu, so that we can hear about what God has been doiing and what he wants to say to us about the future of the Church in this part of England and Wales.

The survey should take about 10 minutes to complete and the deadline for submission is 4th July 2021.  

Complete the survey

Head of Communications

The Archdiocese of Southwark is looking to recruit a Head of Communications, initially on a 2 year fixed contract, to develop and implement a communications strategy for our current times.  Based in central London the job holder will be responsible for an audit of all our current communications, tools and approaches, as well as ensuring all ongoing communications operations meet the highest standards possible.
The ideal candidate will have thorough knowledge of the Catholic church as well as 10 years plus experience in a senior communications role in a not for profit organisation.  He/she will have exemplary written and verbal communication skills and proven experience in both proactive and reactive (crisis) communications through all media.  
This is a full time role with a starting salary range of £55,000 - £60,000 per annum depending upon skills and experience.  We may consider part time for the right candidate.
For more information and to apply please contact sarahwood@rcaos.org.uk by the closing date of 6th April 2021

First Anniversary of The Late Archbishop Peter Smith

Above: Listen to the Homily given by Archbishop John Wilson at the Funeral of the late Archbishop Peter Smith

Saturday 6th March 2021 marks the first anniversary of our beloved former Archbishop, Peter Smith, who died suddenly before the pandemic came into force last year.

As a clergyman who preferred a 'no fuss' approach, it may be that he would have welcomed the splendid simplicity of his funeral in St George's Cathedral, whilst as a nation we adhered to guidance to stay at home. However, there are many in Southwark who wish to give thanks for his life.

Although it is not possible to assign a date at this time, the Diocese hope to arrange a Mass later this year to celebrate his ministry, as well as an occasion to remember the lives of all Southwark clergy who have died in the past year. Please continue to pray for the peaceful repose of their souls.
 

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Richard Diala former Parish Priest of Peckham who died on Friday 19th February 2021 in Nigeria May he rest in peace and rise in glory

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Deacon William Boyd who died on Monday 25th January 2021 May he rest in peace and rise in glory Funeral details to follow

The Catholic Association of Preachers is hosting a webinar which will be led by Archbishop John Wilson. The theme will be Preaching in a Time of Turmoil and will take place on 11 March 2021 between 3 pm - 4.30 pm.

All are welcome to attend: please register by emailing admin@catholicassociationofpreachers.org.uk




This Family Fast Day CAFOD are encouraging us all to raise awareness and funds for those who who struggle to access water. This life-giving commodity is something that many of us take for granted, but those in remote areas often have to walk for miles to ensure that there is enough water for themselves and their families, whether it is for drinking, cooking or cleaning.

The Diocese would like to thank all parishioners who are already undertaiking CAFOD's Walk for Water Campaign, as well as all those offering sponsorship. For those who have yet to consider alms-giving this Lent, Southwark encourages engagement with CAFOD's Family Fast Day this Friday, 26th February 2021.

By consuming a smaller meal and donating the money saved to CAFOD, the charity can help turn around the lives of the poorest by providing bore-holes and solar powered water pumps to remote communities, helping to bring water, health and sanitisation.

For those currently attending Mass in person, there will be an opportunity to give via a Family Fast Day envelope in your parish. If this is not feasible at present it is also possible to donate online.

To find out more, donate and access resources, includinng Fast Day soup recipes, visit the Family Fast Day page on the CAFOD website.

• Download a Prayer Card
• Download a Family Fast Day Guide
• Read more about how climate change is affecing the ability to access water and experience Abdella's daily walk through rocky mountains in hot weather.

Vacancy at the Catholic Bishop's Conference of England and Wales: Mission Adviser

This role will work with dioceses to develop and deep understanding of key teaching documents of the Church and translating them into action.
Working to recognise our common heritage with ecumenical partners and closer dialogue with other faiths.  The role will contribute toward the proclamation of love for Jesus Christ, being the golden thread which motivates the work of the Secretariat and permeates every aspect of the work of supporting the Bishops' mission.

For more information or to apply please email HR@cbcew.org.uk.  
The deadline for the post is 12th March 2021.  

Access a job description.

Pathways to Christ's Passion

Mass on Ash Wednesday

Ready Steady Flip

Get Flipping for Missio on Shrove Tuesday


 

The 29th World Day of the Sick 2021 on the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes

View Southwark Lourdes Pilgrimage videos
(includes a 1 hour Blessed Sacrament Procession
to the St Pius X Basilica)

View Photographs from the 2019 Southwark Lourdes Pilgrimage



The Statue of Our Lady of Lourdes in the Domaine.
The flowers  in the railings represent thanks for prayers answered and promises from pilgrims to return.


Bishop Paul Hendricks and Canon Edward Perera light the Southwark Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage Candle

An Evangelising Catechesis

Masterclass Webinar

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Paul Sanders who died on Friday 29th January 2021 May he rest in peace and rise in glory Funeral details to follow

The Agency for Evanglisation and Catechesis

The Path to a Better Future

A free webinar with Austin Ivereigh, UK Welcomes Refugees and
the Southwark JPIC Commission
Monday 8 February 2021 at 7pm - 8.30 pm.


   

First International Day for Human Fraternity

Annual World Day for Consecrated Life

Racial Justice Sunday

Vacancy: Kent Workplace Mission

We have alll faced an unexoected range of challenges during the pandemic, which may have led to a sense of disquiet or anxiety about not only our health, but also security and the need to adapt, at pace, to ever-changing circumstances.

Our children have also had to adjust their daily routines and with this has come signigicant disruption to study, the inability to meet with friends on a regular basis, uncertainty about the future and more time spent indoors with family.

Jesus regularly took himself away to a quiet place in order to find peace and rest in the healing presence of the Father. It is with this in mind that the Education Commission and Agency for Evangelisation and Catechesis have created a resource entitled ' Meditation, contemplation and well-being.  The resource is intended to serve the spiritual and mental health needs of our children, mainly in this time of pandemic, but also to carry into the future.  

Thie resource consists of a range of opportunities for young people to discover imaginative, contemplative and scriptural prayer through Christian meditation, Ignation Spirituality and the Lectio Divina.  Sources include The Children's Society, the Mark 10 Mission and for older teens, the Hallow app.

In addition, catechists, parishes, schools and colleges can access support to enhance the spiritual devlopment and wellbeing of young people in their care.

Download the Meditation, contemplation and well-being resource

Visit the website of the Agency for Evangelisation and Catechesis 

Southwark Art and Architecture Committee

The Southwark Art and Architecture Committee is continuing to consider applications this year despite not being able to meet in person.  Any parish wishing to put forward an application in 2021 may wish to bear the following virtual meeting dates in mind:
 

• 25th February
• 27th May
• 9th September
• 25th November

Please submit your written proposal with as much detail as possiible and, where applicable, plans and photos to both the Chair of the Art & Architecture Committee (Canon John Weatherill, Parish Priest, Purley) and the Property Office.

Sunday of the Word of God

On 30th September 2919, Pope Francis’ Apostolic Letter, Aperuit illis, established that the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time would be devoted to the celebration, study and sharing of the Word of God. It is intended to reawaken an awareness of the importance of Sacred Scripture ln our lives.
Cardinal Sarah has also described the day as also being a good opportunity to read some ecclesial documents, especially the Praenotanda of the Ordo Lectionum Missae, which speaks of all areas relating to the proclamation of the Gospel. This document indicates the need for due responsibility and reverence for all aspects of the proclamation of the Word, from care of the Ambo to personal interior preparation and familiarity with the text, as well as encouragement to pray the Psalms and Canticles of the Office, and the need for meditative silence so that people can inwardly receive the Word of God.

The ‘God Who Speaks’ (CBCEW) project has produced some excellent resources to help mark Sunday of the Word of God. Amongst other items they include ‘Echoes of God’: an exciting invitation to attend a 7-week online course journeying through the Bible, a Bible Blessing and some liturgical / pastoral resources from the Pontifical Council for promoting the New Evangelisation.

The Bible, which many of us identify solely as the Word of God, can challenge but also encourage and nourish us throughout our lives, particularly offering sustenance and hope when life is overwhelming.  It is perhaps helpful to remember that God continues to speak to us through prayer, other people and a variety situations, so we should be open and ready to hear His Word at all times.

Read Aperuit Illis

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

 
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is traditionally observed on an annual basis between 18th to the 25th January: the octave of St. Peter and St. Paul.  

This year online resources have been prepared by the Monastic Community of Grandchamp in Switzerland. The chosen theme is, “Abide in my love and you shall bear much fruit”, which is based on John 15:1-17 and expresses Grandchamp Community’s vocation to prayer, reconciliation and unity in the Church and the human family.

Churches Together in Britain and Ireland are featuring these resources on their website: they range from posters and themed pamphlets to powerpoint presentations and a short service which can be held at home or online with the parish community.  Download resources here.

In addition, Bishop Paul Hendricks, Chairman of the Southwark Christian Unity Commission, will be offering a special message on their new website  and short prayer service will take place on YouTube this Friday, 22nd January 2021 at 7.30 pm, led by Commission members.  Please visit the new Southwark CUC website for full details.

Finally, Southwark Christian Unity Commission  is now on Twitter, which  offers a highly accessible opportunity to find out more about their work. Please visit them at @SouthwarkCUC during Christian Unity Week to view  their greetings to a wide variety of other Christian denominations and take a moment to welcome them to this social media platform.

“Abide in me and you shall bear much fruit” 

(based on John 15. 1-17)

Peace Sunday 2021

On Sunday 17th January the Church will celebrate Peace Sunday, when we are asked to explore the theme chosen by Pope Francis:  'A Culture of Care as a Path to Peace'.  

Read Pope Francis' message for the 54th World Peace Day

The Catholic Bishops Conference and Pax Christi have kindly prepared  number of resources, with ideas for schools, parishes and individuals.
In addition, all are invited to join Pax Christi on Zoom betweeen 6 - 7 pm on Saturday 16th January to unpack Pope Francis' message and explore what this practically entails for Christians as people of peace.

To download resources and sign up for the Pax Christi Peace event:
www.paxchristi.org.uk/peace-sunday-2021/  

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Michael Boland who died peacefully on Monday 4th January 2021 May he rest in peace Funeral details to follow

Please pray for the repose of the sould of Father George Webster who died peacefully on Tuesday 29th December 2020 May he rest in peace Funeral details to follow

Epiphany Resources

New National Lockdown in 2021

Pastoral Letter for 

The Solemnity of the Holy Family

27th December 2020

A Message for Christmas 2020 from the Archbishop of Southwark

 

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Canon Frank O'Sullivan who died peacefully on Tuesday 22nd December 2020 Funeral details to follow May he rest in peace

 Christmas Masses at St George's Cathedral

Parishes in Southwark are generally open over the Christmas period: please check your parish website for details. A number will also be offering live-streams given the present COVID-19 situation in the South East of England and St George's Cathedral will be live-streamng two Masses this Christmas.

Two New Deacons for Southwark

Matthew Donnelly and David Hunter

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Michael Gwinnell who died Sunday 13th December 2020 May he rest in peace Funeral details: Tuesday 12th January at 12 noon in St Joseph’s RC Church, New Malden  celebrated by The Most Reverend Kevin McDonald ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Please note that there will be a restriction on numbers due to the present situation with COVID-19

Sea Sunday

 

A Christmas Meditation of Music and Word

Southwark Education Commission Christmas Card Competition

Letter to Religious

Advent Reconciliation Services

Reflecting on Vocations in Advent

Homily for the Second Sunday of Advent
Matthew Donnelly, Deacon Elect

The Retirement of Bishop Patrick Lynch SS.CC

#Red Wednesday

The Solemnity of Christ the King

CYMFed: Come ‘Together’ For Youth Funday and National Youth Sunday

Mass for the 33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Interreligous Greetings for Deepavali

St John's Seminary Christmas Cards

Chief Operating Officer for Birmingham Diocese

Statement from the Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales on the Publication of the IICSA Report

 
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CAFOD: Faith into Action

 Building a better world after the pandemic

Remembrance Sunday Live-stream & Homily

Visit of the new Apostolic Nuncio

COVID-19 National Autumn Lockdown

Letters by Archbishop John Wilson

Ordination of David Daly

for more information visit

www.rosaryonthecoast.co.uk

and www.walsingham.org.uk

The Feasts of All Saints and All Souls

Painted by Fra Angelico (public domain)

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father John O'Callaghan who died on Friday 16th October 2020  His Funeral Mass was celebrated on Sunday 18th October 2020 at St John the Baptist Carriganimma followed by burial at St Colman's Cemetery, Macroom, Co. Cork May he rest in peace

 

World Mission Sunday

Sunday 18th October 2020

Fr Nick King SJ: Talk on Discipleship

For further information: www.rosaryonthecoast.co.uk

Beatification of Carlo Acutis

'The more Eucharist we receive, the more we will become like Jesus, so that on this earth we will have a foretaste of heaven"

Carlo Acutis was born in London in 1991 to Italian parents, who moved to Milan shortly after his birth. He had a deep faith from an early age with a special love for Our Lady, frequently praying the rosary. He also had a great devotion to the Eucharist and a routine of weekly confession. After celebrating his First Holy Communion, at the age of seven, he rarely missed an opportunity to receive the Eucharist at daily Mass.

CAFOD Harvest

Evangelisation, Discipleship and Fellowship

Three online talks with Fr Nick King SJ

Orpington Parish have organised three talks with the esteemed speaker, Fr Nick King SJ, throughout this October. These were originally intended to be parish or deanery based, but with the present pandemic to be considered, increased awareness of digital technology and with support from the new Agency for Evangelisation and Catechesis, it has been possible to transfer all of the talks online.  

The theme of the talks, which will take place between 7.30 pm - 9.15 pm, will be as follows:

7th October: Evangelisation

14th October: Discipleship

21st October: Fellowship

Each session will include a talk of approximately one our with a question and answer period of 30 minutes afterwards.  Handouts, which have kindly been prepared by Fr Nick, will also be available in advance. 

Should you wish to attend one or all three of the webinars please register by emailing orpington@rcaos.org.uk. 

Download a poster here (see below)

Fratelli Tutti

Stella Maris Centenary Mass

Ten years ago...
Visit of Pope Benedict to the UK
2010: 16 - 19 September

Agency for Evangelisation and Catechesis
Vacancies: Evangelisation and Outreach Advisor & Local Leadership Resource Co-ordinator

Agency for Catechesis and Evangelisation

World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Canon John McNamara who died on Monday 31st August 2020 Funeral arrangements to follow. May he rest in peace

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Charles Briggs who died on Tuesday 25th August 2020 Funeral arrangements to follow. May he rest in peace

Lourdes 2020

Livestream Mass: St Oscar Romero
Saturday 15th August

Congratulations

Archbishop John Wilson
Four Newly Ordained Priests

Monsignor Canon John O'Toole

Vacancy: Safeguarding Officer

Archbishop John Wilson to celebrate Mass marking his Silver Jubilee of priestly ordination

Livestream Mass for the Sick and their Families, NHS Front-Line workers
and those working in Social Care

Livestream Mass
for Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul

Message from
the Catholic Archbishops' of England

Livestream Mass
for 12th Sunday of Ordinary Time

"No Place for Racism"
A Message from your Bishops to the Young People
in Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Southwark

Challenging the evil of racism

Solemnity of Corpus Christi

Pastoral Letter
Concerning the Reopening of Catholic Churches
for Individual Prayer

Mass with the Knights of St Columba

Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity

Video Message to Catechumens and Candidates

Letter to Prime Minister
from Archbishop John Wilson

Pentecost Sunday

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Francis Hartley who died on Thursday 28th May 2020 Due to the suspension of public worship, a private liturgy will take place. In due course an In Memoriam Mass will be arranged. May he rest in peace

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Edmund (Ed) Hartley who died on Tuesday 26th May 2020 Due to the suspension of public worship, a private liturgy will take place. In due course an In Memoriam Mass will be arranged. May he rest in peace

May - the month of Mary

Archbishop John invites everyone in the Diocese to join him for a special online gathering on Wednesday 27th May. He will be leading a live streamed May Devotions, including a Scriptual Rosary at 7pm from the Catherdral. At this time when we are asked to be more isolated than usual it is an opportunity to "spiritually gather" together.