5th Sunday of the Year

The following celebrations will take place during the days ahead.

• Saturday: (3rd Feb) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: George Burrell
• Sunday: (4th Feb) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Tuesday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Lindsay Bradley
• Thursday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Isabella Rogan Taylor
• Friday: 10.15am Funeral Service in St. Alban’s Church: John Brown
• Saturday: (10th) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday: (11th) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Denis Patrick Lenehan
• Ash Wednesday: (14th Feb) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s  Church: Tommy and Kathleen McKenna and Joan Neil

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from  the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time especially Lindsay Bradley, Denis Patrick Lenehan, and Isabella Rogan Taylor and,
• John Brown who has died. May he rest in the peace of the Risen Lord.

A Prayer for the troubled world

Prince of peace, in a world of conflict and violence
we pray that the peace you came to bring may become
a reality in the world of our own time. Amen.

School News from Mrs Robinson

Dear Parishioners, thank you for your prayers and support this week. We really felt the benefit of them during our Ofsted Section 8 Inspection. The children and staff did an amazing job of sharing our fantastic school with the inspector and I look forward to sharing the outcome with you soon.

We currently have spaces in our nursery for children who are 3 or 4 years old. If you are interested in either a 15-hour place or a 30-hour place in our teacher-led nursery, please contact the school office on 0191 4693251 for an application pack.

White Flower Appeal

The White Flower Appeal for the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children will be taken this weekend 3rd/4th February, by means of a basket as you leave our churches for those who may choose to support it.

A call to our parents

If you are bringing your child(ren) up for a blessing at Holy Communion, would you please ensure they cross their arms over their chest before approaching the minister to avoid any misunderstandings. Thank you so much.

Walk with Me – Lenten Booklets

These booklets include a daily reflection for each day of Lent. A limited number are now available to purchase at the back of St. Alban’s Church and on the table at the front of St. Patrick’s Church priced at £1.00. First come, first served!

The Diocesan Justice and Peace Refugee Project…….

…….which supports people who are seeking asylum in our area, continue to appeal for donations of sugar, biscuits, tinned fish in oil, tins of tomatoes, chick peas, toiletries and shampoo. If you feel able to support this project, donations may be left on the tables at the entrance to our churches and at our school.

Are you new to our Parishes?

If you have recently moved into Bill Quay, Felling, Pelaw, Heworth, Windy Nook and the surrounding area you are more than welcome to come along to worship with us in either St. Alban’s Church, Queen Victoria Street, Pelaw or St. Patrick’s Church on the High Street in Felling. Mass times are Saturday evening at 6pm in St. Alban’s and 10am on a Sunday in St. Patrick’s.

If you would like to offer your talents to the parish – and we all have God given talents – then please approach Fr. Patterson or any of our welcomers and provide us with your details. You would also be most welcome to join us for refreshments after Sunday Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre which is located directly underneath the Church. We look forward to seeing you.

Your offerings are our sole source of income

Although we do not take a collection at Mass by passing round a basket, we do hope you will feel able to make an offer-ing towards the upkeep and running costs of our churches in one of the boxes you will find at the entrances to our churches.  Alternatively you may consider making your offering by Standing Order the details of which are below.

For St. Alban’s: Account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 92010984

For St. Patrick’s: Account name: DHN Felling St Patrick: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 52010453

The path to Jerusalem

Following a discussion at the Think Tank meeting held on 19th January, we offer the following approach to Lent this year. If you would like to help us with further planning please contact Kevin Rhodes, Trisha McGinley or any of our welcomers.

The Path to Jerusalem

A journey in prayer and liturgy

from Ash Wednesday, 14th February to Palm Sunday, 24th March
____________________________

First Steps
Ash Wednesday Mass and distribution of Ashes ending with a Short
Prayer service – based on Christ’s time in the wilderness, with the setting up
of a prayer space

Fruitful Steps
First Sunday of Lent – Distribution of a sheet of Gospel Readings relating to
Alms Giving and suggestions as to what we can do in practically supporting
those in need in our community. (Your
ideas on this aspect of Lent would be greatly valued)

Learning Steps
A time for discussion about “The Lord’s Prayer. In response to the Year of
Prayer.

Healing Steps
A liturgy based on the healing ministry of Christ which may incorporate the
Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick   

Forgiving Steps
A liturgy based around readings focusing on the forgiveness of Christ which
may incorporate the Sacrament of Reconciliation

Nurturing Steps
A liturgy based on the Feeding of the Five Thousand followed by a Lenten Lunch

Quiet Steps
Encouragement to quiet personal prayer. Selecting a time and place each
week to spend in prayer supported by the weekly distribution of our prayer
sheets.

The dates and times of each step will vary.

Feel free to join in as many steps of our Journey as you can manage or suits your circumstances and remember whatever steps you take you will be sharing in the journey.

4th Sunday of the Year

The following celebrations will take place during the days ahead.

• Saturday: (27th) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday: (28th) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Mary Eleanor McWilliams
• Tuesday: (30th) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Ellen Farrell
• Thursday: 10am Funeral Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Agnes Swinhoe
• Saturday: (3rd Feb) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: George Burrell
• Sunday: (4th Feb) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Tuesday: (6th Feb) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Lindsay Bradley

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from  the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time especially Denis Patrick Lenehan, Mary Eleanor McWilliams, Patsy Rafferty and Lindsay Bradley and,
• and Agnes Swinhoe and John Brown who have died. May they rest in the peace of the Risen Lord

A Prayer for the troubled world

Prince of peace, in a world of conflict and violence we pray that the peace you came to bring may become a reality in the world of our own time. Amen.

School News from Mrs Robinson

In school this year, we are trying to take care of the little things. This is really helping us focus on just small acts of kindness that, when put together, build up to have a bigger impact on the world. We hope you will also be inspired to take care of the little things and, as St David once said, to “be joyful, keep the faith, and do the little things”.

We currently have spaces in our nursery for children who are 3 or 4 years old. If you are interested in either a 15-hour place or a 30-hour place in our teacher-led nursery, please contact the school office on 0191 4693251 for an application pack.

Annual White Flower Appeal

The Annual White Flower Appeal for the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children will be taken next weekend 3rd/4th February, by means of a basket as you leave our churches.

Your offerings are our sole source of income

Although we do not take a collection at Mass by passing round a basket, we do hope you will feel able to make an offering towards the upkeep and running costs of our churches in one of the boxes you will find at the entrances to our churches.  Alternatively you may consider making your offering by Standing Order the details of which are below.

For St. Alban’s: Account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 92010984

For St. Patrick’s: Account name: DHN Felling St Patrick: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 52010453

The path to Jerusalem

Following a discussion at the Think Tank meeting held on 19th January, we offer the following approach to Lent this year. If you would like to help us with further planning please contact Kevin Rhodes, Trisha McGinley or any of our welcomers.

The Path to Jerusalem

A journey in prayer and liturgy

from Ash Wednesday, 14th February to Palm Sunday, 24th March
____________________________

First Steps
Ash Wednesday Mass and distribution of Ashes ending with a Short
Prayer service – based on Christ’s time in the wilderness, with the setting up
of a prayer space

Fruitful Steps
First Sunday of Lent – Distribution of a sheet of Gospel Readings relating to
Alms Giving and suggestions as to what we can do in practically supporting
those in need in our community. (Your
ideas on this aspect of Lent would be greatly valued)

Learning Steps
A time for discussion about “The Lord’s Prayer. In response to the Year of
Prayer.

Healing Steps
A liturgy based on the healing ministry of Christ which may incorporate the
Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick   

Forgiving Steps
A liturgy based around readings focusing on the forgiveness of Christ which
may incorporate the Sacrament of Reconciliation

 

Nurturing Steps
A liturgy based on the Feeding of the Five Thousand followed by a Lenten Lunch

Quiet Steps
Encouragement to quiet personal prayer. Selecting a time and place each
week to spend in prayer supported by the weekly distribution of our prayer
sheets.

The dates and times of each step will vary.

Feel free to join in as many steps of our Journey as you can manage or suits
your circumstances and remember whatever steps you take you will be sharing in
the journey.

3rd Sunday of the Year

The following celebrations will take place during the days ahead.

• Saturday: (20th) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: Peter Sloan
• Sunday:  (21st) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Tuesday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: George Owens
• Thursday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Vincent Dolan
• Saturday: (27th) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday: (28th) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Mary Eleanor McWilliams
• Tuesday: (30th) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Ellen Farrell

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time especially Mary Eleanor McWilliams,  Patsy Rafferty and Peter Sloan.

Weekly Offering Envelopes  for 2024/25 – Gift Aid Contributors

We will be ordering boxes of envelopes for the new year, beginning 1st April, 2023 this week. These envelopes are becoming very expensive, so we would urge you, if you do not already do so, to consider making your offering by Standing Order. This not only reduces the cost on the parish and our carbon footprint, but also eases the burden on our limited teams of counters who count the collections.

The details you require to set up a Standing Order are set out below:

For St. Alban’s:   
Account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban
Sort code: 40-34-18   
Account No: 92010984

For St. Patrick’s:   
Account name: DHN Felling St Patrick
Sort code: 40-34-18
Account No: 52010453

If you prefer an envelope please take note:

If you would prefer to continue to receive a box of envelopes for your Gift Aided contributions please place a note to that effect with your name and address in the collecting boxes at the front and back of our churches by next weekend, or email the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk as soon as possible. Thank you.

A Prayer for the troubled world

Prince of peace, in a world of conflict and violence
we pray that the peace you came to bring
may become a reality in the world of our own time. Amen.

Sunday of the Word of God

This Sunday, is a day on which Pope Francis encourages us to deepen our awareness of the importance of the Word of God in our lives so that we can experience anew how the risen Lord opens up for us the treasury of his word and enables us to proclaim its unfathomable riches before the world.

New readers

On this day when Pope Francis highlights the importance of  the Word of God for people of faith, it may be that some of you may value the opportunity to read the Word of God at Mass.  You would be welcome to join our readers rota. This invitation is open to parishioners of all ages. If you would like to take part in our liturgies in this way please speak to Fr. Patterson or email the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk.

Can you play a musical instrument?

If you would like to join St. Patrick’s musicians and help with the music at Sunday Mass, please speak to Jessica or Dylan whom you will find at the front of the church after Mass.

More parishioners would be welcome to join the very small singing group to help sustain the singing. If you are interested simply sit at the front of the church behind our musicians and “sing your heart out!”

Soup and Sandwich Lunch

During the cold weather a soup and sandwich lunch will replace the “Afternoon Tea.”

Why not join us in St. Patrick’s parish centre on Saturday, 27th January from the slightly earlier time of 1pm. This event is open to everyone from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s, along with friends and neighbours.

Are you new to our Parishes?

If you have recently moved into Bill Quay, Felling, Pelaw, Heworth, Windy Nook and the surrounding area you are more than welcome to come along to worship with us in either St. Alban’s Church, Queen Victoria Street, Pelaw or St. Patrick’s Church on the High Street in Felling. Mass times are Saturday evening at 6pm in St. Alban’s and 10am on a Sunday in St. Patrick’s.

If you would like to offer your talents to the parish – and we all have God given talents – then please approach Fr. Patterson or any of our welcomers and provide us with your details. You would also be most welcome to join us for refreshments after Sunday Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre which is located directly underneath the Church. We look forward to seeing you.

A Year of Prayer and a Jubilee Year to come

Pope Francis has called a Jubilee Year for 2025, the theme of which is “Pilgrims of Hope’.

In preparation for the Jubilee Year, he has  designated 2024 as a Year of Prayer, with a particular focus on the Our Father. This, he hopes will be a great opportunity to go back to the basics of prayer. He encourages every Catholic to reflect on their life of prayer: what they pray, how they pray and why they pray.

He speaks of “Prayer that comes from the heart, not like parrots. Prayer which renews our desire to be in the presence of the Lord, to listen to him and to adore him. Prayer which thanks God for the many gifts of his love for us and praises his work in creation, which summons everyone to respect it and take concrete and responsible steps to protect it.

The Pope speaks of Prayer that makes it possible for every man and woman in this world to turn to the one God and to reveal to him what lies hidden in the depths of their heart; of Prayer as the road to holiness, enabling us to be contemplative even in the midst of activity.

Pope Francis hopes that 2024 may be an intense year of prayer in which hearts are opened to receive the outpouring of God’s grace and to make the “Our Father,” the prayer Jesus taught us, the life programme of each of his disciples.

We hope to offer some opportunities to make this Year of Prayer special for St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s. Your ideas would be welcomed.

School News from Mrs Robinson

We currently have spaces in our nursery for children who are 3 or 4 years old. If you are interested in either a 15-hour place or a 30-hour place in our teacher-led nursery, please contact the school office on 0191 469 3251 for an application pack.

School Chaplaincy Vacancy

St Thomas More School, Blaydon is looking to recruit a School Chaplain. For further information, supporting documents and to download an application pack, please visit the Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust website. Closing date for applications is Monday 22nd January, 2024.

2^nd Sunday of the Year

The following celebrations will take place during the days ahead.

• Saturday: (13th) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (14th) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: In Thanksgiving (Linda)
• Tuesday: (16th) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Norman Foster
• Wednesday: (17th) 10am Funeral Mass for Vona Wood in St. Alban’s Church
• Thursday: (18th) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Bishop Hugh Lindsay
• Saturday: (20th) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: Peter Sloan
• Sunday:  (21st) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Tuesday: (23rd) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: George Owens

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from  the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time especially Annie Donald, Bishop Hugh Lindsay, Patsy Rafferty and Peter Sloan and’
• George Burrell  and Vona Wood who have died. May they rest in peace. The Funeral Mass for George Burrell will take place in St. Augustine’s Church, Leam Lane on Friday, 19th January, 2024 at 10am.

Weekly Offering Envelopes  for 2024/25 – Gift Aid Contributors

We will soon be ordering boxes of envelopes for the new year, beginning 1st April, 2023. These envelopes are becoming very expensive, so we would urge you, if you do not already do so, to consider making your offering by Standing Order. This not only reduces the cost on the parish and our carbon footprint, but also eases the burden on our limited teams of counters who count the collections.

The details you require to set up a Standing Order are set out below:-

For St. Alban’s:   
Account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban
Sort code: 40-34-18   
Account No: 92010984

For St. Patrick’s:   
Account name: DHN Felling St Patrick
Sort code: 40-34-18
Account No: 52010453

If you prefer an envelope please take note:

If you would prefer to continue to receive a box of envelopes for your Gift Aided contributions please place a note to that effect with your name and address in the collecting boxes at the front and back of our churches by next weekend, or email the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk as soon as possible. Thank you.

 A Prayer for the troubled world

Prince of peace, in a world of conflict and violence
we pray that the peace you came to bring
may become a reality in the world of our own time. Amen.

Think Tank Meeting

Sorry, but Lent is just round the corner. Ash Wednesday is 14th February, 2024!

Fr. Patterson would like to invite all parishioners from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s to a Think Tank meeting on Friday of this week, 19th January to discuss how we might celebrate Lent this year and “other things.” Everyone has something to offer, so please try to come to St. Patrick’s parish centre at 615pm.

We might also consider the item below on Pope Francis decision to make 2024 a “Year of Prayer.”

A Year of Prayer and a Jubilee Year to come

Pope Francis has called a Jubilee Year for 2025, the theme of which is “Pilgrims of Hope’.

In preparation for the Jubilee Year, he has  designated 2024 as a Year of Prayer, with a particular focus on the Our Father. This, he hopes will be a great opportunity to go back to the basics of prayer. He encourages every Catholic to reflect on their life of prayer: what they pray, how they pray and why they pray.

He speaks of “Prayer that comes from the heart, not like parrots. Prayer which renews our desire to be in the presence of the Lord, to listen to him and to adore him. Prayer which thanks God for the many gifts of his love for us and praises his work in creation, which summons everyone to respect it and take concrete and responsible steps to protect it.

The Pope speaks of Prayer that makes it possible for every man and woman in this world to turn to the one God and to reveal to him what lies hidden in the depths of their heart; of Prayer as the road to holiness, enabling us to be contemplative even in the midst of activity.

Pope Francis hopes that 2024 may be an intense year of prayer in which hearts are opened to receive the outpouring of God’s grace and to make the “Our Father,” the prayer Jesus taught us, the life programme of each of his disciples.

We hope to offer some opportunities to make this Year of Prayer special for St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s. Your ideas would be welcomed.

Soup and Sandwich Lunch

During the cold weather a soup and sandwich lunch will replace the “Afternoon Tea.”

Why not join us in St. Patrick’s parish centre on Saturday, 27th January from the slightly earlier time of 1pm. This event is open to everyone from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s, along with friends and neighbours.

Can you play a musical instrument?

If you would like to join St. Patrick’s musicians and help with the music at Sunday Mass, please speak to Jessica or Dylan whom you will find at the front of the church after Mass.

More parishioners would be welcome to join the very small singing group to help sustain the singing. If you are interested simply sit at the front of the church behind our musicians and “sing your heart out!”

All are welcome

Everyone is welcome to join us for our celebrations in St. Patrick’s and St. Alban’s churches. It is a joy to welcome people of other faiths or none who come to join us in worship. Currently, only baptised Catholic people are able to receive Holy Communion and we ask that when you approach the altar you extend your hands towards the minister who will place the sacred host in your hand which you should then consume immediately before returning to your place. If you are not a Catholic or are indisposed to receive Holy Communion, you are invited to come forward at the appropriate time and receive a blessing, indicating your desire by folding an arm across your chest.

School News from Mrs Robinson

Happy New Year to you all in our parish churches of St Alban’s and St Patrick’s. The children have returned to school with enthusiasm and energy, full of exciting tales of their Christmas holidays. We look forward to meeting up with you during this spring term and continue to appreciate the prayers being offered for our school community.

Thank you

Father Patterson wishes to thank those families who attended the Advent Liturgies in St Alban’s Church and very generously donated  £137.68. towards the running costs of our church.

Children’s Liturgy of the Word

We had hoped to reintroduce the Children’s Liturgy this year but unfortunately there has been insufficient interest shown to do so at present.

However there are several children’s prayer books available for use during Mass in our churches. They may be found at the back of both churches. Parents and carers are invited to make use of these and help their children follow the Mass.

The Feast of the Epiphany

The following celebrations will take place during the days ahead:

• Saturday: (6 Jan) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (7 Jan) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s: Rosie Cullen
• Tuesday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Lavinia Webber
• Thursday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Sadie Nelson
• Saturday: (13 Jan) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (14 Jan) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s: In Thanksgiving (Linda)
• Tuesday: (16 Jan) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Norman Foster

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time especially Rosie Cullen and,
• George Burrell and Vono Wood who have died. May they rest in peace

We saw the star as it rose and have come to do the Lord homage

On the Feast of the Epiphany, we hear the account in the gospel of wise men from the east who observed the light of a new star and tried to discover meaning in this extraordinary event.

Wise men and women are still searching the heavens for a greater understanding of the mysteries of life. How did it all happen? Where did it all begin? Where are we all going?

But the wise men of the gospel associated their experience with an even deeper mystery: the entry into human history of a God who would be a king and who would suffer and die.

The prayerful attention of the wise ones can help us to discover the unfolding mystery of God’s purpose for each one of us. It is a mystery of love that has created us inlove, for love, to love: to love God, to love our fellow human beings and to love the world in which we live. If we are wise, we will sit up and take notice.

 A Prayer for the troubled world

Prince of peace, in a world of conflict and violence
we pray that the peace you came to bring
may become a reality in the world of our own time.
Amen.

A Year of Prayer and a Jubilee Year to come

Pope Francis has called a Jubilee Year for 2025, the theme of which is “Pilgrims of Hope’.

In preparation for the Jubilee Year, he has  designated 2024 as a Year of Prayer, with a particular focus on the Our Father. This, he hopes will be a great opportunity to go back to the basics of prayer. He encourages every Catholic to reflect on their life of prayer: what they pray, how they pray and why they pray.

He speaks of “Prayer that comes from the heart, not like parrots. Prayer which renews our desire to be in the presence of the Lord, to listen to him and to adore him. Prayer which thanks God for the many gifts of his love for us and praises his work in creation, which summons everyone to respect it and take concrete and responsible steps to protect it.

The Pope speaks of Prayer that makes it possible for every man and woman in this world to turn to the one God and to reveal to him what lies hidden in the depths of their heart; of Prayer as the road to holiness, enabling us to be contemplative even in the midst of activity.

Pope Francis hopes that 2024 may be an intense year of prayer in which hearts are opened to receive the outpouring of God’s grace and to make the “Our Father,” the prayer Jesus taught us, the life programme of each of his disciples.

We hope to offer some opportunities to make this Year of Prayer special for St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s. Your ideas would be welcomed.

Joe’s Place

Joe’s Place is a project supported by the parishes of the John Ingram Partnership. It supports some of the many vulnerable people in the local area. It was founded in 2014 and takes place every Wednesday in the Parish Hall of St Joseph’s Church, Gateshead. Guests are served freshly prepared hot or cold food at their tables. Food is prepared in the kitchen using donated tinned and dried foods, together with fresh and frozen food purchased using donations from local schools, businesses, parishes, and individuals. During the past five years the parishes in the Partnership have made financial contributions to the project, according to their means, to help cover the cost of renting St. Joseph’s Hall and the cost of utilities. This coming year the proceeds of the Charity Box in St. Alban’s Church will go to Joe’s Place and a box at the front of  St. Patrick’s Church marked “Joe’s Place” will be available for donations.

The Diocesan Justice and Peace Refugee Project…….

…….which supports people who are seeking asylum in our area, continue to appeal for donations of sugar, biscuits, tinned fish in oil, tins of tomatoes, chick peas, toiletries and shampoo. If you feel able to support this project, donations may be left on the tables at the entrance to our churches and at our school.

 All are welcome

Everyone is welcome to join us for our celebrations in St. Patrick’s and St. Alban’s churches. It is a joy to welcome people of other faiths or none who come to join us in worship. Currently, only baptised Catholic people are able to receive Holy Communion and we ask that when you approach the altar you extend your hands towards the minister who will place the sacred host in your hand which you should then consume immediately before returning to your place. If you are not a Catholic or are indisposed to receive Holy Communion, you are invited to come forward at the appropriate time and receive a blessing, indicating your desire by folding an arm across your chest.

Your offerings are our sole source of income

Although we do not take a collection at Mass by passing round a basket, we do hope you will feel able to make an offering towards the upkeep and running costs of our churches in one of the boxes you will find at the entrances to our churches.  Alternatively you may consider making your offering by Standing Order the details of which are below.

For St. Alban’s: Account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 92010984

For St. Patrick’s: Account name: DHN Felling St Patrick: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 52010453

The Feast of the Holy Family

The following celebrations will take place during the days ahead:

• Saturday: (30 Dec) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (31 Dec) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s: Gerry Toberty & the Toberty Sisters
• Monday: (1 Jan) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Allan Lavin
• Thursday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Jim Murray and LDM Family
• Saturday: (6 Jan) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (7 Jan) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s: Rosie Cullen
• Tuesday: (9 Jan) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Lavinia Webber

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time especially Rosie Cullen, Allan Lavin, Jim Murray, Gerry Toberty, Rose Wright and Patrick Wright and,
• Fr. John Gibbons who has died. May he rest in peace.

Thanks

Fr. Patterson would like to take this opportunity to wish you and those you love dearly a Happy New Year, rich in God’s blessings.

He is grateful for your cards, gifts, emails, telephone calls and prayers, all of which are very much appreciated.

Thanks to everyone who helped to make the Feast of Christmas a most prayerful and uplifting celebration in both of our churches. and thanks to those Volunteers who continue to ensure everyone who visits our churches receives a warm welcome in a safe and friendly setting.

A Prayer for the New Year and beyond

We are a community of memory that looks back; we are a community of Spirit that looks forward. It is important, though not easy, to look back with kindness and to look forward in hope.

This year is coming to a close and a new year beckons. Let us hand over the past to God for his healing blessing. Let us ask the Lord to face the future with us so that we do not face it alone

Let us pray for each other and for all those we love

that we might know the promise of the Lord that brings the Gospel to a close.

(Fr. Denis McBride C.Ss.R)

A New Year Resolution – Why not try it?

Let the message of Christ, in all its richness, find a home with you. Teach each other and advise each other in all wisdom. Bear with one another; forgive each other as soon as a quarrel begins. Never say or do anything except in the name of the Lord Jesus. Over all these things, to keep them together and complete them, put on love.

(St. Paul writing to the people of Colossae)

A Prayer for the troubled world

Prince of peace, in a world of conflict and violence

we pray that the peace you came to bring may become a reality in the world of our own time. Amen.

Christmas Raffle – Prize winners

Father Patterson wishes to thank all those who supported our Christmas Raffle this year; those who organised it, sold and bought tickets and gifted prizes. You have helped to raise the most generous total of £851.00 which will be shared between St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s helping to offset the running costs in each of our churches. A list of prize winners may be found on the noticeboards in our churches.

Mass Intentions

Fr. Patterson is very grateful for the generous Mass Offerings you are handing in.  As he is currently only able to celebrate four Masses each week, one of which must be for “the Parishioners Intentions,” he is a little behind in celebrating some of your Mass requests. He tries to give priority to Anniversaries, but it is not always possible. So please be patient and understanding.

Joe’s Place

Joe’s Place is a project supported by the parishes of the John Ingram Partnership. It supports some of the many vulnerable people in the local area. It was founded in 2014 and takes place every Wednesday in the Parish Hall of St Joseph’s Church, Gateshead. Guests are served freshly prepared hot or cold food at their tables. Food is prepared in the kitchen using donated tinned and dried foods, together with fresh and frozen food purchased using donations from local schools, businesses, parishes, and individuals. During the past five years the parishes in the Partnership have made financial contributions to the project, according to their means, to help cover the cost of renting St. Joseph’s Hall and the cost of utilities. This coming year the proceeds of the Charity Box in St. Alban’s Church will go to Joe’s Place and a box at the front of  St. Patrick’s Church marked “Joe’s Place” will be available for donations.

All are welcome

Everyone is welcome to join us for our celebrations in St. Patrick’s and St. Alban’s churches. It is a joy to welcome people of other faiths or none who come to join us in worship. Currently, only baptised Catholic people are able to receive Holy Communion and we ask that when you approach the altar you extend your hands towards the minister who will place the sacred host in your hand which you should then consume immediately before returning to your place. If you are not a Catholic or are indisposed to receive Holy Communion, you are invited to come forward at the appropriate time and receive a blessing, indicating your desire by folding an arm across your chest.

Your offerings are our sole source of income

Although we do not take a collection at Mass by passing round a basket, we do hope you will feel able to make an offering towards the upkeep and running costs of our churches in one of the boxes you will find at the entrances to our churches.  Alternatively you may consider making your offering by Standing Order the details of which are below.

For St. Alban’s: Account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 92010984

For St. Patrick’s: Account name: DHN Felling St Patrick: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 52010453

The following celebrations will take place during the days ahead.

• Saturday: (23 Dec) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: Norah Lagan
• Sunday: (24 Dec) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Nellie Armstrong
• Christmas Eve: 5.30pm First Mass of Christmas with carols in St. Patrick’s Church:   The Parishioners Intentions
• Christmas Day: 9.30am Christmas Mass in St. Alban’s Church: Andrew Sloan
• Tuesday, (26th Dec)  10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre : Maurice Brown
• Thursday: (28th Dec) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Desmond Costelloe
• Saturday: (30 Dec) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (31 Dec) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s: Gerry Toberty & the Toberty Sisters
• Monday: (1 Jan) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Allan Lavin

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from  the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital and,
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time especially Gerry Toberty, Nellie Armstrong, Allan Lavin and Jim Murray

All are welcome

Everyone is welcome to join us for the celebration of Christmas in St. Patrick’s and St. Alban’s churches. It is a joy to welcome people of other faiths or none who come to join us in worship. Currently, only baptised Catholic people are able to receive Holy Communion and we ask that when you approach the altar you extend your hands towards the minister who will place the sacred host in your hand which you should then consume immediately before returning to your place. If you are not a Catholic or are indisposed to receive Holy Communion, you are invited to come forward at the appropriate time and receive a blessing, indicating your desire by folding an arm across your chest

Christmas Services

Fr. Patterson would like to take this opportunity

to wish you and your families a peaceful and joy filled Christmas

“Every year, at this time,
we are asked to escape from the tumult of our hearts,
to put aside our weighty cares and leave our wearisome toil;
to enter for a while into the inner chamber  of our souls,
to listen to God’s Word.
The Word — calling us, through the mist of ignorance and apathy,
to be silent, to listen to the sound of stillness,
and to see in the Child, born of Mary,
The Word who became flesh”

Cardinal Basil Hume (OSB)

Christmas Raffle

Father Patterson wishes to thank all those who supported our Christmas Raffle this year; those who organised it, sold and bought tickets and gifted prizes. You have helped to raise the most generous total of £851.00 which will be shared between St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s helping to offset the running costs in each of our churches.

Thank you

Fr. Patterson is grateful for two recent donations made to St. Patrick’s parish funds in the sums of £100.00 (gift aided) and another in the sum of £40.00. Thank you very much indeed.

School News from Mrs Robinson

Wishing you a blessed and peaceful Christmas from all at St Alban’s School. Thank you for your continued and generous support throughout this term and we look forward to meeting up with you again in the new year. We return to school on Tuesday 9^th January 2024.

Mobile phones and hot drinks

If you are attending any services in St. Alban’s Church or St. Patrick’s Church, including those hosted by our school, you are asked to ensure that your mobile phones are “turned off” as silent mode is not always silent. It is not our custom to bring hot drinks into our churches – nor is it safe from a Health and Safety point of view, as there is a potential risk of scalding if a cup is accidently knocked over. Please be considerate of each other at all times.

A Prayer for the troubled world

Prince of peace, in a world of conflict and violence we pray that the peace you came to bring may become a reality in the world of our own time. Amen.

Your offerings are our sole source of income

Although we do not take a collection at Mass by passing round a basket, we do hope you will feel able to make an offering towards the upkeep and running costs of our churches in one of the boxes you will find at the entrances to our churches.  Alternatively you may consider making your offering by Standing Order the details of which are below.

For St. Alban’s: Account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 92010984

For St. Patrick’s: Account name: DHN Felling St Patrick: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 52010453

3rd Sunday of Advent

The following celebrations will take place during the days ahead:

• Saturday: (16 Dec) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: Birdie Cooper
• Sunday:  (17 Dec) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Tuesday:  (19th Dec) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre:  Paul Hughes
• Thursday: (21 Dec) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Brian Quigley
• Saturday: (23 Dec) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: Norah Lagan
• Sunday:  (24 Dec) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Nellie Armstrong
• Christmas Eve: 5.30pm First Mass of Christmas in St. Patrick’s Church:  The Parishioners Intentions
• Christmas Day: 9.30am Mass in St. Alban’s Church: Andrew Sloan
• Tuesday, (26th Dec)  10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre : Maurice Brown
• Thursday: (28th Dec) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Desmond Costelloe

Mass to view online

Mass is live streamed from  the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital and,
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time especially Gerry Toberty, Nellie Armstrong and Jim Murray

All are welcome

Everyone is welcome to join us for the celebration of Mass in St. Patrick’s and St. Alban’s churches. It is a joy to welcome people of other faiths or none who come to join us in worship. Currently, only baptised Catholic people are able to receive Holy Communion and we ask that when you approach the altar you extend your hands towards the minister who will place the sacred host in your hand which you should then consume immediately before returning to your place. If you are not a Catholic or are indisposed to receive Holy Communion, you are invited to come forward at the appropriate time and receive a blessing, indicating your desire by folding an arm across your chest.

Christmas Services

Advent Cafe

Last week, our “Café” callers explored the Advent theme of Joy. A thought provoking time was had by all over a cup of tea and rather nice cakes.

We continue our reflections this coming Wednesday in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 6pm. Do come along as we ponder the Advent theme of “Love” in preparation for the coming of the Lord.

Advent Alms

Advent is the season when we offer our financial support to the work of St. Cuthbert’s Care in our Diocese. If you feel able to make a contribution to “Advent Alms” please place your donation in an envelope marked Advent Alms and place it in one of the boxes at the doors of our churches.

A busy week ahead

Amidst everything you and your families have to do during the next few days, try to spend a minute or two making this prayer your own:

Lord Jesus, help me to prepare for your coming;

to wish for you and to watch for you,

so that at your coming you may find me ready.

Advent Reflections

The Diocesan Vicariate for Faith and Mission has produced an online booklet of Advent reflections, which can be found here: Advent Reflections

Northern Catholic Calendar

The 2024 edition of the Diocesan Year Book is available for sale at the back of St. Alban’s church and on the front table in St. Patrick’s priced at £3.00. There are a limited number of copies available – so first come first served.

School News from Mrs Robinson

Dear Parishioners, there are some Christmas cards for our prayer sponsors to collect from the back of both of our churches. The children, families, staff and governors are all very grateful for your continued prayers.

Year 6 will lead our final Advent service to help us imitate Mary when she said, ‘Let it be to me’. You are welcome to join us on Friday 22^nd December 9.15am in St Alban’s Church.

Mobile phones and hot drinks

If you are attending any services in St. Alban’s Church or St. Patrick’s Church, including those hosted by our school, you are asked to ensure that your mobile phones are “turned off” as silent mode is not always silent. It is not our custom to bring hot drinks into our churches – nor is it safe from a Health and Safety point of view, as there is a potential risk of scalding if a cup is accidently knocked over. Please be considerate of each other at all times.

A Prayer for the troubled world

Prince of peace, in a world of conflict and violence

we pray that the peace you came to bring may

become a reality in the world of our own time. Amen.

Your offerings are our sole source of income

Although we do not take a collection at Mass by passing round a basket, we do hope you will feel able to make an offering towards the upkeep and running costs of our churches in one of the boxes you will find at the entrances to our churches.  Alternatively you may consider making your offering by Standing Order the details of which are below.

For St. Alban’s: Account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 92010984

For St. Patrick’s: Account name: DHN Felling St Patrick: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 52010453

Covid Autumn Booster Vaccinations and Flu Vaccinations are now available

Everything you need to know may be found here Getting a COVID-19 vaccine

2nd Sunday of Advent

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week.

• Saturday: (9 Dec) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (10 Dec) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Joyce McTaff
• Tuesday: 10am Funeral Service in St. Patrick’s Church for Joan Palmer
• Thursday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Francis Tepace
• Saturday: (16 Dec) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: Birdie Cooper
• Sunday:  (17 Dec) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time

All are welcome

Everyone is welcome to join us for the celebration of Mass in St. Patrick’s and St. Alban’s churches. It is a joy to welcome people of other faiths or none who come to join us in worship. Currently, only baptised Catholic people are able to receive Holy Communion and we ask that when you approach the altar you extend your hands towards the minister who will place the sacred host in your hand which you should then consume immediately before returning to your place. If you are not a Catholic or are indisposed to receive Holy Communion, you are invited to come forward at the appropriate time and receive a blessing, indicating your desire by folding an arm across your chest.

Christmas Services

Advent Cafe

Our “Café” last week explored the Advent theme of Peace. An enjoyable and thought provoking time was had by all  over a cup of tea and rather nice cakes.

We continue our reflections this coming Wednesday in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 18.00. Do come along as we ponder the Advent theme of Joy in these troubled times and in preparation for the coming of the Lord.

Advent Alms

Advent is the season when we offer our financial support to the work of St. Cuthbert’s Care in our Diocese. If you feel able to make a contribution to “Advent Alms” please place your donation in an envelope marked Advent Alms and place it in one of the boxes at the doors of our churches.

Walk with Me – reduced to 50p

The Advent Prayer Booklet “Walk with Me” which gives scripture readings and a reflection for each day of Advent is available at the back of St. Alban’s church and on the front table in St. Patrick’s, at the reduced price of 50p.

Advent Reflections

The Diocesan Vicariate for Faith and Mission has produced an online booklet of Advent reflections, which can be found here: Advent Reflections

Northern Catholic Calendar

The 2024 edition of the Diocesan Year Book is available for sale at the back of St. Alban’s church and on the front table in St. Patrick’s priced at £3.00. There are a limited number of copies available – so first come first served.

School News from Mrs Robinson

Dear Parishioners, here is a reminder of our upcoming events:

Friday 15^th December 3pm in St Alban’s Church: Y5 lead our third Advent service to help us ‘Rejoice’.

Friday 22^nd December 9.15am in St Alban’s Church: Y6 lead our final Advent service to help us imitate Mary when she said, ‘Let it be to me’.

We are also looking to employ a Level 3 SEN 1:1 Teaching Assistant.

Mobile phones and hot drinks

If you are attending any services in St. Alban’s Church or St. Patrick’s Church, including those hosted by our school, you are asked to ensure that your mobile phones are “turned off” as silent mode is not always silent. It is not our custom to bring hot drinks into our churches – nor is it safe from a Health and Safety point of view, as there is a potential risk of scalding if a cup is accidently knocked over. Please be considerate of each other at all times.

Christmas Raffle

Have you bought your ticket for the Christmas Raffle. It is a chance to raise much needed funds for both St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s. 1^st Prize: £100.00, 2^nd Prize £50.00, 3^rd Prize 6 bottles of wine and various other prizes. The draw will be made on 3^rd Sunday of Advent, 17^th December after 10.00 Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre. Tickets are available after Mass in both of our churches and in St. Patrick’s parish centre. £1.00 each.

A Prayer for the Israeli and Palestinian People

Heavenly Father, we come to you as the source of all comfort asking that you send your Spirit to surround and uphold all those who are grieving, all those who are suffering, all those living in fear, and all those held in captivity. May the arms of comfort and compassion, overwhelm the arms of war. Amen.

Your offerings are our sole source of income

Although we do not take a collection at Mass by passing round a basket, we do hope you will feel able to make an offering towards the upkeep and running costs of our churches in one of the boxes you will find at the entrances to our churches.  Alternatively you may consider making your offering by Standing Order the details of which are below.

For St. Alban’s: Account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 92010984

For St. Patrick’s: Account name: DHN Felling St Patrick: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 52010453

Covid Autumn Booster Vaccinations and Flu Vaccinations are now available

Everything you need to know may be found here Getting a COVID-19 vaccine

1^st Sunday of Advent

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week.

• Saturday: (2 Dec) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: Margaret and Brian Pankhurst
• Sunday:  (3 Dec) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Tuesday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Patricia Lagan
• Friday: The Feast of the Immaculate Conception 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre for George Owens
• Saturday: (9 Dec) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (10 Dec) 6pm Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Joyce McTaff

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from  the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time especially Norah Lagan and,
• Joan Palmer who has died. May she rest in peace

All are welcome

Everyone is welcome to join us for the celebration of Mass in St. Patrick’s and St. Alban’s churches. It is a joy to welcome people of other faiths or none who come to join us in worship. Currently, only baptised Catholic people are able to receive Holy Communion and we ask that when you approach the altar you extend your hands towards the minister who will place the sacred host in your hand which you should then consume immediately before returning to your place. If you are not a Catholic or are indisposed to receive Holy Communion, you are invited to come forward at the appropriate time and receive a blessing, indicating your desire by folding an arm across your chest.

Christmas Services

Advent Cafe

Our “Café” opened last Wednesday when we spent time together reflecting on the Advent theme of Hope over a cup of tea and rather nice cakes. We continue our reflections this coming Wednesday in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 6pm. Do come along and ”Prepare a Way for the Lord” in your life.

Advent Alms

Advent is the season when we offer our financial support to the work of St. Cuthbert’s Care in our Diocese. If you feel able to make a contribution to “Advent Alms” please place your donation in an envelope marked Advent Alms and place it in one of the boxes at the doors of our churches.

Walk with Me

The Advent Prayer Booklet “Walk with Me” which gives scripture readings and a reflection for each day of Advent is available at the back of St. Alban’s church and on the front table in St. Patrick’s, priced £1.00. First come first served.

Advent Reflections

The Diocesan Vicariate for Faith and Mission has produced an online booklet of Advent reflections, which can be found here: Advent Reflections

Mass Intentions

Fr. Patterson is very grateful for the generous Mass Offerings you are handing in.  As he is currently only able to celebrate four Masses each week, one of which must be for “the Parishioners Intentions,” he is a little behind in celebrating some of your Mass requests. He tries to give priority to Anniversaries, but it is not always possible. So please be patient and understanding.

School News from Mrs Robinson

Dear Parishioners, here is a reminder of our upcoming events to which you are all invited:

• Monday 4^th December 3pm in St Alban’s Church: Y3 lead our first Advent service of prayer to help us ‘Stay Awake’.
• Thursday 7^th December 3.40pm The Friends of St Alban’s invite you all to a Christmas Fair in our school hall.
• Friday 8^th December 3pm in St Alban’s Church: Y4 lead our second Advent service of prayer to help us ‘Prepare the way’.
• Friday 15^th December 3pm in St Alban’s Church: Y5 lead our third Advent service to help us ‘Rejoice’.
• Friday 22^nd December 9.15am in St Alban’s Church: Y6 lead our final Advent service to help us imitate Mary when she said ‘Let it be to me’.

Children’s’ Liturgy of the Word

We hope to offer an opportunity for a Children’s Liturgy of the Word to be held in St. Patrick’s parish centre this Sunday, 3rd December. It will initially be for children in Years 1, 2 and 3. Following the advice of our Diocesan Safeguarding Office, parents will be unable to accompany their children to the liturgy. However they will be well cared for by our catechists who all have enhanced DBS clearance.

Christmas Raffle

Have you bought your ticket for the Christmas Raffle. It is a chance to raise much needed funds for both St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s. 1^st Prize: £100.00, 2^nd Prize £50.00, 3^rd Prize 6 bottles of wine and various other prizes. The draw will be made on 3^rd Sunday of Advent, 17^th December after 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre. Tickets are available after Mass in both of our churches and in St. Patrick’s parish centre. £1.00 each.

Congratulations

Our prayerful good wishes are extended to Jemma who was received and confirmed into the fullness of the Catholic faith last weekend.

A Prayer for the Israeli and Palestinian People

Heavenly Father, we come to you as the source of all comfort asking that you send your Spirit to surround and uphold all those who are grieving, all those who are suffering, all those living in fear, and all those held in captivity. May the arms of comfort and compassion, overwhelm the arms of war. Amen.

Your offerings are our sole source of income

Although we do not take a collection at Mass by passing round a basket, we do hope you will feel able to make an offering towards the upkeep and running costs of our churches in one of the boxes you will find at the entrances to our churches.  Alternatively you may consider making your offering by Standing Order the details of which are below.

For St. Alban’s: Account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 92010984

For St. Patrick’s: Account name: DHN Felling St Patrick: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 52010453

Covid Autumn Booster Vaccinations and Flu Vaccinations are now available Everything you need to know may be found here Getting a COVID-19 vaccine