NINETEENTH SUNDAY OF YEAR A
12th/13th August 2017
Dear Parishioner,
Nineteenth Sunday of the Year (A)
In today's Gospel reading from Matthew (14: 22 - 33) even at times of apparent absence, God is present. He
comes to our aid, even if we cannot recognise him. We can sometimes be looking for him in the wrong places or
experiences. So it was with Elijah in today's first reading (1 Kings, 19-9, 11-3). Elijah is tired and
confused, and possibly depressed. How often in our own lives we are confused and lost. The people have turned away from
God and persecuted the prophets and he feels abandoned and afraid. In the gentlest way possible, the Lord God becomes
present to him in his disorientation and calms his anxieties. We too must always put our cares and concerns with the
Lord who will always help us.
In the Gospel Matthew relates an incident that is clearly symbolic. The boat represents the Church; the disciples are
beaten by the winds and waves of persecution. Jesus is not with them physically; he is in heaven, praying to the
Father. However, in the hour of need he comes to them, and with his presence calms their fears and brings them peace.
Jesus Christ is always present in our own lives. We only have to ask him and put our cares and concerns with him and he
will guide us.
On Tuesday (15th August) we celebrate the solemn feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
This is a holy day of obligation and Mass will be at 10.30 and 7.00 pm at St. Augustine's. Mary was a humble
person. Humble people care nothing for acclaim. They receive praise and honour the way a clean window receives the
light of the sun. The brighter and more intense the light is, the less you see of the glass. It retains nothing of the
light for itself but lets it all shine through. Mary attributed everything to God: 'The almighty has done great
things for me; holy is his name.' Mary will help us to be humble, open and trusting before God. Then God will
enrich us, and we too will sing his praises.
God bless,
Deacon Kevin
Pope Francis's intention for AUGUST:
"That artists of our time, through their creativity, may help us discover the beauty of creation."
Notices:
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SHAPING THE FUTURE OF OUR DIOCESE The diocese has recently published the first proposal document
regarding its restructuring and renewal programme. This document can be accessed at: http://www.dioceseofbrentwood.net/news/diocese-asks-parishes-comment-restructuring-renewal-proposals/
Hard copies are also available in the church to be read and passed on please. Please do read and reflect on the
contents-your feedback will be welcomed at the next meeting of the Parish Pastoral Council-date and time to
be confirmed.
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FLOWERS AT NEW HALL Friends at New Hall, if at anytime you would like to bring some flowers or one
flower along to put on the altar, because it is an anniversary of a loved one, a birthday, a special day, or no
reason at all, please feel free to do so. We want the Mass to be special for all of us. If flower arranging isn't
your thing the girls will put them in a vase for you, as long as you are early enough, and then if you wish take them
home afterwards. You will not step on anybody's toes, we all wear hard shoes!
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A DIOCESAN DAY OF CELEBRATION AND WITNESS will take place in Brentwood Cathedral on Saturday
4th November from 1O.30am to 5.00pm. Speakers will be Bishop Alan, Bishop Thomas, emeritus Bishop of
Brentwood and Michelle Moran, Present of International Catholic Charismatic Renewal Services.
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WORLD YOUTH DAY, PANAMA, JANUARY 2019. If you will be in year 12, or aged 17-27, in January
2019, then join the BCYS group travelling to Costa Rica and Panama for an encounter with 2 million young people from
all over the world, and the Pope. This is truly a "once in a lifetime" experience and an amazing
opportunity to discover and celebrate faith in Latin America. For more information, visit www.bcys.net or click here
to Email by 15th September 2017.
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DATE FOR THE DIARY - SVP QUIZ, 7 OCTOBER at St Augustine's. Details to follow.
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BRENTWOOD CATHOLIC CHILDREN'S SOCIETY LADIES' TEA at The Rayleigh Club, Hulbridge on
Thursday 21st September. Afternoon Tea will be served at 2pm and to add some extra sparkle to the occasion, ladies
will be greeted with a glass of Bucks Fizz. You will then be treated to an assortment of finely cut finger
sandwiches, freshly baked scones and clotted cream along with a selection of mouth-watering homemade cakes and
sweet treats, all served with tea or coffee. Tickets cost £20 per person and as numbers are limited, we would
recommend reserving your place as soon as possible. Contact Libby on 01268 784544 or click here to Email
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YOUNG CATHOLIC ADULT WEEKEND AT DOUAI ABBEY 20-22 Oct 2017. Are you 18-40, do you want to
deepen your knowledge of the Catholic faith, learn its devotions and meet like minded people? Young Catholic Adults
are organizing a weekend at Douai Abbey in Berkshire with Lawrence Lew O.P., and Canon Poucin ICKSP. You'll be
able to hear catechetical talks, learn how to sing Gregorian Chant, say the Rosary, socialize and have fun. Book soon
as places are limited!
Book at: https://v1.bookwhen.com/youngcatholicadults-douai2017
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NEW HALL SCHOOL VACANCIES for:
Accounts Clerk-Fees Ledger. Closing date 22.08.17
Teacher of English - Maternity cover from January 2018. Closing date 29.08.17
For details, please see www.newhallschool.co.uk/Job-Opportunities
Please remember to pray for:
The sick and housebound
Those who have recently died: Derrick Hands
Years Mind:
Sunday: Naik Kerfone
Monday: Fr Stephen Keane
Friday: Fr Peter Prendergast
Saturday: Norman Anthony, Fr Vincent Hurley, Fr Andrew Hurley
Next Sunday - TWENTIETH SUNDAY OF YEAR A
First Reading Isaiah 56: 1,6-7
I will bring foreigners to my holy mountain.
Second Reading Romans 11: 13-15,29-32
With Israel, God never takes back his gifts or revokes his choice.
Gospel Matthew 15:21-28
Woman, you have great faith.
