Author Archives: Andy Brown
SYNOD for a Synodal Church
Pope Francis has called a Universal Synod which is taking place in every Catholic diocese across the world. The Synod is themed: “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission”. We want to hear from as many people as possible, those involved in the church and those who are not.
You can take part by completing an online submission using the QR code below or following this link: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/3D3FXJ2. We have until 1st March 2022 to make our submissions. Your contribution is invaluable and will make a considerable difference to the future of the Church in our diocese and across the world.
Sacrament of Confirmation – Registration
All young people aged 13 and over are invited to prepare for Confirmation in June 2022. There will be a series of preparation meetings to attend either through school or parish depending on your local situation and numbers involved. Form online here: https://forms.gle/n7fk2ZVeHamgLZKQA
CCP December Prayer Theme
The prayer theme to all those who are displaced/separated from home and family support. We are focussing on the work of the Orthodox Maria Skobtsova House, in Calais where volunteers from different denominations work to feed, cloth and minister in the refugee/immigration camps around northern France. We should also pray for all those in authority who have to manage this ongoing problem. Maria Skobtsova 20/12/1891—31/3/1945 known as Mother Maria St Mary of Paris, was a Russian noblewomen, poet, nun and member of the French Resistance in WW2, and canonised a saint in the Eastern Orthodox Church. The convent provided shelter for the Jews. Eventually the house was closed down, Mother Maria and a priest Fr Dimitri together with Yuri and Sophia were arrested by the Gestapo. Fr Dimitri and Yuri both died at the Dora concentration camp. Mother Maria was sent to Ravensbruck concentration camp. On Holy Saturday 1945 she was sent to the gas chamber reputedly taking the place of another.
Lost in the Lost, Calmer of the Waves, a Man of Sorrows acquainted with grief. We pray for all refugees in Calais over Christmas as they seek new life from desperation.
As they seek a place to call home,
As they seek protection from danger, hostility and violence,
As they confront barrier after barrier to simple freedom.
As they are haunted by uncertainty and fear for their loved ones.
Lord in Your Mercy may they see and feel You reaching out to them.
Lord in Your Mercy protect them.
Lord in Your Mercy uplift and empower those who lovingly minister to them,
Lord in Your Mercy show us a way to help.
Bless the work of Maria Skobtsova House as they bring love, warmth and sustencnce. To the displaced in your Holy Name, sharing the gift of the Christ-child.
Lord Jesus, in Your Mercy, Hear Our Prayer