THE HOLY FAMILY (B)
30th/31st December 2017
OUR LADY OF THE EVENING
The Ephesus sun sinks deep in the West. In these days of fragility and quiet wonder, I ponder and remember.
LOVE IS BORN.
Especially, that night when Joseph, knowing and unknowing led me gently to that stark place the unyielding fulfilment
of the angel's request. LOVE IS BORN.
And Simeon telling me (in no uncertain terms) that a sword would pierce my heart. I loved the Nazareth years. Not then
perceiving that his loving spirit would kindle my dowry in England. All those pilgrims in that centenary summer walking
the holy mile in silent prayer. LOVE IS BORN.
And Lourdes, pledging my renewed protection to that portion of my Son's vineyard. I can cherish the words of
Beruadette. "Oh yes, I saw her." The evening shadows gather. I think of Simeon, and my risen Lord whom I
kindle in the new day's Eucharist. LOVE IS BORN.
Notices:
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186 CLUB Congratulations to Oliver McCaffery winner of the recent draw.
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ST JOHN PAYNE SCHOOL SIXTH FORM INFORMATION EVENING
With the recent opening of our new sixth form centre, we are especially pleased to invite prospective Sixth Form
students along with parents & carers to attend our information evening on Wednesday 10th January 2018 from 5.00pm
- 8.00pm. The evening offers the opportunity to attend a presentation about our sixth form at either 5.00pm or
7.35pm. There is the opportunity between these times to visit subject leaders to learn about the array of courses we
offer. Our prospectus is available in the Sixth Form area of the school website, providing a wealth information to
inform your visit.
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RESTRUCTURING OF THE DIOCESE Parishioners are encouraged to be familiar with the First Formal
Proposal for Renewal & Restructuring of our Diocese. The document can be accessed via a link on the parish
website. As an accompaniment to document and also available on the web site, Bishop Alan has recorded a short address
which we hope to share with parishioners prior to a parish meeting mid January, where we will be invited to share
observations and present queries arising from our reading and prayer. If time permits, a subsequent meeting of
parishioners from St Augustine's, Blessed Sacrament, Our Lady Immaculate & Holy Name will offer the
opportunity of shared feedback prior to the meeting at the Diocese on 24th February. I encourage us all to talk and
to pray so that together we can shape the future of our parish and Diocese at this exciting time.
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CARETAKER FOR ST HELEN'S CATHOLIC INFANT SCHOOL, Brentwood. Applications are invited for the
post full-time caretaker (37 hours per week/ split shift) 6.45am to 1O.45am and 2.30pm to 6.00pm. More info from
01277 215626 or the web site www.st-helens-inf.essex.sch.uk. Closing date 4pm 17.01.18.
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NEW HALL SCHOOL JOB VACANCIES New Hall School currently has a variety of vacancies to fill. Please
see www.newhallschool.co.uk/job-opportunities
Please remember to pray for:
Daily for the sick clergy of our Diocese
The sick and housebound
Those who have recently died: Jim McEvoy, Canon Tony McKentey, Mary Braun
Years Mind:
Sunday: Fr Brian Reeves
Thursday: Fr Patrick McKenna
Friday: Fr Francis Heenan
Sunday: Fr John Bloomfield