FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT (A)
(Expectant Mothers)
22nd December 2019
Dear Parishioner,
Loving, responsive obedience to God, as modelled for us in the Gospel by St. Joseph, is the central theme of
today's readings, with special emphasis on the Virgin Birth of Jesus.
In the first reading, the prophet Isaiah gives a sign from God to King Ahaz of Judah: "Behold, a virgin shall
conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel" (Is 7:14).
In the second reading, Paul asserts that Jesus was a descendant of David and thus the Messiah. Paul explains that the
only begotten Son of God, become Incarnate as Jesus, was revealed and established by the Father as Son of God in power
by his Resurrection from the dead. Then Paul provides a sweeping summary of God's mighty acts in history through
Jesus Christ.
Today's Gospel, from Matthew, focuses on the person and role of Joseph. For Jesus to fulfil the Messianic prophecy
given by Isaiah, Joseph had to, and freely did, accept Jesus as his son, making Jesus a legal descendant of David
because Joseph was a descendant of David. Hence, Matthew makes it clear that Jesus was not the biological child of
Joseph. But because Joseph was the husband of Mary at the time Jesus was born, Jesus was legally the son of Joseph and
thus a descendant of David.
Let us therefore trust in God, listen to Him and be faithful. Instead of relying on our own schemes to get us through
life, let us trust in God and be strengthened by talking to Him in fervent prayer and by listening to Him speaking
through the Bible.
May our immediate preparation for the coming of our saviour be meaningful and intense in these days. Wishing
you all a very blessed Christmas with all the blessings from the divine child born in the manger.
"Merry Christmas to all"
SEND, O LORD: HOLY APOSTLES INTO YOUR CHURCH
Fr Sabu Pariyadan RCJ
CHRISTMAS MASSES AT ST AUGUSTINE'S
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TUESDAY 24 DECEMBER Christmas Eve
FIRST MASS OF CHRISTMAS
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St Augustine
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8.00pm
8.30pm
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Carols followed by
Vigil Mass
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WEDNESDAY 25 DECEMBER Christmas Day
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St Augustine
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9.00am
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Solemn Mass
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Notices:
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THANK YOU FROM FR SABU Many, many thanks for all the cards, generous gifts, good wishes and prayers
that I have received in the run up to Christmas. I am truly grateful and wish you all a blessed New Year. Fr Sabu.
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205 CLUB Congratulations to P Robinson, winner of the December draw.
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CHRISTMAS OFFERING Please remember that all church collections over Christmas are your personal gift
to Fr Sabu. This forms an important part of his income for the year. If you give by standing order or use the weekly
envelopes please use the envelope marked 'Christmas' for your Christmas Day offering. Many thanks. Rowena,
secretary to the Finance Committee.
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ANNUAL Parish Dinner, Channels 4 January 7pm for 7.30pm Menus available from Karin Seeman after 9am
Sunday Mass - all menu choices required before Christmas please! It's always a pleasurable and light-hearted
occasion. Thank you, Karin Seeman 01245 466167 or click here to Email.
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SVP GIVING TREE SUCCESS! A huge thank you for your wonderful generosity for the 'Giving
Tree'. We were able to wrap 2 presents for each of 46 children from 17 families in need. The Round Table have
provided us with food and grocery parcels to deliver alongside the presents. These deliveries will make such a huge
difference for these families. Thank you so much.
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NINE LESSONS AND CAROLS SERVICE Sunday 22nd December 4pm in the Cathedral. Main celebrant, Bishop
Alan Williams. A service of readings, carols and beautiful choral music from the Cathedral choir. The perfect way to
reflect on the radiant meaning of Christmas. All welcome.
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JOB OPPORTUNITIES IN THE DIOCESE
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Finance Team Management Accountant - Salary: £30,000-£35,000, 35 Hours per week in
Brentwood with some travel throughout the Diocese. Experienced Management Accountant required to provide support
in all aspects of general accounts administration. Further info: HR 01277 265253 or click
here to Email.
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Finance Team Parish Support - Finance Assistant - Salary: £25,000, 35 Hours per week in
Brentwood with some travel throughout the Diocese. Experienced book-keeper required to provide support in all
aspects of parish finance and gift aid administration. Further info: HR 01277 265253 or click
here to Email.
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Applications for both positions close 12.01.20, interviews expected w/c 20.01.20
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Property Office Health & Safety Coordinator - Salary £25-30,000, 35 hours per week in
Brentwood with regular travel across Diocese to provide health and safety support and guidance across the
Diocese. Closing date 26.01.20, interviews expected w/c 03.02.20.
For all positions applicants should submit a CV and covering letter highlighting how their skills and experience meet
the requirements of the role, to above recruitment email.
Please remember to pray for:
Daily for the sick clergy of our Diocese
The sick and housebound
Those who have recently died
Years Mind:
Sunday: Fr Arthur Cowd
Monday: Bp Brian Foley
Wednesday: Canon Wilfrid Thompson
Thursday: Fr Francis Greenan
Friday: Fr Francis Wilson
Saturday: Eric Pearson