Dear Parishioners
Pope Francis wrote recently: “Commitment to ecumenism responds to the prayer of the Lord Jesus that “they may all be one”. The credibility of the Christian message would be much greater if Christians could overcome their divisions and the Church could realize “the fullness of catholicity proper to her in those of her children who, though joined to her by baptism, are yet separated from full communion with her” (2nd Vatican Council). We must never forget that we are pilgrims journeying alongside one another. This means that we must have sincere trust in our fellow pilgrims, putting aside all suspicion or mistrust, and turn our gaze to what we are all seeking: the radiant peace of God’s face. Trusting others is an art and peace is an art. Jesus told us: “Blessed are the peacemakers”. In taking up this task, also among ourselves, we fulfil Isaiah’s prophecy: “They shall beat their swords into ploughshares” (Is2:4).
In this perspective, ecumenism can be seen as a contribution to the unity of the human family. At the Synod on Evangelisation, the presence of the Patriarch of Constantinople, His Holiness Bartholomaios, and the Archbishop of Canterbury, His Grace Rowan Williams, was a true gift from God and a precious Christian witness.
If we concentrate on the convictions we share, and if we keep in mind the principle of the hierarchy of truths, we will be able to progress decidedly towards common expressions of proclamation, service and witness.”
The annual week of prayer for Christian Unity begins this Saturday, the highlight of which will be the special United Service which this year will be held in Trinity Methodist at 6.30pm on Sunday. Special daily morning services in our Clitheroe churches are listed below.
Saturday 18th January, 9 30 am at the Community Church. Prayer meeting led jointly with the Salvation Army
Sunday 19th January, 6 30 pm United Service at Trinity Methodist Church
Monday 20th January, 9 00 am at St. Michael and St. John’s. Mass
Tues 21st January, 12 30pm at the United Reformed Church.
Wed 22nd January, 10 30 am at St. James’. Holy Communion service led jointly with St. Paul’s
Thurs 23rd January, 10 30 am at Trinity Methodist Church in the Wesley room
Fri 24th January, 10 30 am at St. Mary Magdalene’s. Holy Communion service
Please, follow Pope Francis’ lead and at least make time to join the Unity service at Trinity next Sunday at 6.30pm.
Fr John