Dear Parishioners,
The last Parish Forum accepted a proposal that we launch an occasional parish walk following Sunday Mass. As both on this and next Sunday I will celebrate the 10am Mass in Dunsop, we shall launch the first walk next Sunday 16th October, with a six mile romp around and over Hodder Bank Fell. For those who prefer a shorter walk there is the option of a 3 mile ramble up and down the river Hodder. The land is very wet, so whichever walk you wish to join you must wear either boots or wellies. We shall start after the 10am Mass and call in to Puddle Ducks on our return to Dunsop where as a group we can discuss the possibility of an outing in early December. Do come and join us.
The parish group that went on retreat recently report:
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, we all long for a chance to step aside for a while. This we did two weeks ago at Craig Lodge in Scotland. The Craig Lodge Community is group of people who have chosen to walk the path of the Gospel together through prayer, service and evangelisation in honour of Our Lady, Queen of Peace. It is also the home of ‘Mary’s Meals’. Nine parishioners attended a retreat given there by Fr. Kevin. A few from Scotland and Ireland also joined with us.
We received a wonderful reception from the staff at the Lodge, many of whom were young people committed to serve for one year in the community to do domestic chores, spend the time in the service of others and take an active part in the religious life of the Lodge They were an inspiration. Nothing was too much trouble for them.
There was the opportunity for us to join in the spiritual life of the community at Mass, the rosary and other devotions. There was also time for walking in the surrounding countryside or just simply relaxing.
Fr. Kevin enthused us with prayer, poetry, parable and praise, not only in discussion but in music, with his own musical compositions and his own accompaniment. What an amazing writing experience of faith, fellowship and friendship, as we grew in compassion and understanding through our writings. Thank you Fr. Kevin. Also thank you for driving the minibus!
If anyone gets the opportunity to attend a similar retreat – take it. You will not regret it. For further details, visit their website at www.craiglodge.org Leaflets are also available in the church porch.
Fr John