St Mary's Parish Horwich
Weekly Newsletter
Sunday 7th April 2024 (2nd Sunday of Easter – Divine Mercy)
Mass this Week
Tues 9th April - 10.00am Mass with Exposition from 9:30am
Weds 10th April - 10.00am Mass with Exposition from 9:30am
Thurs 11th April - 10.00am Eucharistic Service
Fri 12th April - No service
Sat 13th April - 11am Eucharistic Service
Sun 14th April - 6:30pm Vigil Mass; 10:30am Mass
(Easter 3)
Next Sunday we welcome back the Spiritan Fathers to celebrate our Sunday Masses
Prayer List
Our sick and housebound: Stephen Tootill, Stan Ellison, Gordon Mellor, Simon Taylor, Paul Davis, Betty Keenan, Paul Murray, Deirdre Croft, Tim Travis, Steven Welch. Lately Dead: Stuart McLoughlin, Peter Johnson, Geoff Ratcliffe. Anniversaries: Joan Southern.
A Note about Anniversaries: One of the many blessings of our Catholic Faith is that we can request a Mass to be said for a loved one on his/her Anniversary. Please be aware that if you would like your loved ones to be named on the Anniversary Prayer List (and included in the Bidding Prayers), it is for you to inform Fr Richard. The best way to do that is to request him to say a Mass in advance of the date of the Anniversary. Thank you.
Feast of the Divine Mercy Today: Sunday 7th April 2024
Special Celebration for the Bolton Area. At the Parish of St Cuthbert, St Thomas of Canterbury Church, Lonsdale Road, Heaton, BL1 4PN. 1:00 – 3:30pm. Exposition, Confessions, Special Prayers and Talk by Tony Hickey and hosted by Mrs Tinuke Arewa (Charles Arewa RIP). 3pm Holy Mass celebrated by Fr Joel Yeboah-Marfo. Refreshments after. All welcome.
YCW Parish Activity Document
This weekend our Parish YCW group is presenting the fruits of their latest project, which has been to gather information and contact details regarding all the various groups and activities currently active in the Parish. These have been combined into a single document (summary) which parishioners are invited to take home and keep for reference. Suggested donation: 50p.
Grub Tub
The next Urban Outreach collection will be on Monday 8th April. There will be another collection on Monday 15th April after which collections will go back to once a fortnight. Donations can be placed in the Grub Tub at the back of church or dropped off at St Elizabeth's on the above dates between 11.00 and 13.00.
CAFOD Group at St Mary’s Parish
Following Simon Holleron’s recent talk on CAFOD, we are inviting anyone who may be interested, to help re-form a St Mary’s CAFOD or ‘World Development’ Group to step forward. Simon explained what kinds exciting fundraising and awareness-raising activities such a group might offer to the Parish. Please speak to Fr Richard if you would like to join such a group.
Parish Social & Fundraising Committee
At a recent meeting of the Parish Finance Committee, it was decided that we should set up a Social & Fundraising Committee within the Parish to plan and oversee a range of activities designed to raise funds for the Parish. The Finance Committee will form the basis of this group and they are appealing for the help, ideas and energy of other parishioners! If you feel that you could join such a group, please speak to a member of the Finance Committee: Stephen Carr, David Purtill or David Tetlow. Alternatively, speak with Fr Richard and he will put you in touch with them. Many thanks.
St Mary’s ‘Big Listen’
Our Synod Reps, Mark and Paula, wish to thank everyone for taking part in the recent ‘Big Listen’ sessions. Particular thanks go to the table leaders who attended more than one meeting. Thanks likewise to Mark and Paula for giving their time to plan and lead these sessions. We hope that the experience has been uplifting for everyone who engaged with it. Feedback from participants has included the following: "Thought provoking"; "Good to be involved at parish level"; " Peaceful and prayerful". For anyone who was unable to attend a session in the Parish, there is still a chance to take part online via the link: www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/faith/synod There is also a poster at the back of church which includes a QR code to access this website.
St. Mary's Volunteers
Earlier this year; an invitation went out to all parishioners asking if anyone would like to join our team of helpers, here at St. Mary's in a variety of roles. Happily, several new volunteers came forward and they are now a vital part of our team. However, due to a variety of reasons, our Rosary Room team is depleted. We are asking if anyone would like to join us. The duties involve being available to make and serve drinks after Sunday morning Mass. Before taking on the role full training will be given, and any newcomers will always be with an experienced volunteer. If you would like to volunteer, please send an email to stmaryshelpers@yahoo.com Include your name and phone number and either Hilary or Patti will contact you to explain more about the role. The more volunteers we have, the fewer times each person is needed. Usually, the commitment is approximately once every 4 weeks. Thanks in anticipation. Hilary and Patti.
Hope in the Future Cycle of Prayer
Over the coming weeks, we will be praying for the parishes of Mount Carmel Deanery, for its people, and clergy in our latest Hope in the Future Cycle of Prayer. Please click here to download our latest prayer cycle now.
Contactless Card Donations
We recently introduced a new way of donating to the Parish via a contactless card device. This is now a permanent fixture at the back of church and will be available every day to make donations. If you would like any assistance or more information, please speak with Fr Richard or a member of the Parish Finance Team.
Parish “Donate” website function
It is now easier than ever to make a financial donation to our Parish. If you would like to do this at home and you have access to the internet, simply visit the St Mary’s Parish website (www.stmaryshorwich.com) and click on the ‘Donate’ icon on the homepage. This will give you
instructions on how to set up a Standing Order or make a one-off donation to the Parish.
Donations made to Charities by Cheque
You can make a donation to a particular charity at any time by putting it in the Parish Collection (e.g. CAFOD, Caritas Diocese of Salford etc.). If you do this by cheque, please make it payable to: ‘St Mary’s RC Horwich’ and write the name of the charity you wish to support on the back. Thank you.
Thank you from Caritas
Thank you to everyone who supported Caritas Salford's Lent appeal to help to change lives of people in Greater Manchester and Lancashire. If you have donations to pay in to the charity, there's still time and you can do so online at https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/pay-in-your-money/ or by contacting the team on fundraising@caritassalford.org.uk / 0161 817 2285. Your kind donations and prayers make a real difference to the lives of the local people that Caritas supports - people in our local communities facing poverty, disadvantage, homelessness and isolation. Thank you again for your support.
Diocesan Day Retreat: The Cloud of Unknowing
Our diocesan day retreat programme continues in May with a closer look at the mystical text, The Cloud of Unknowing. Dating back to the 14th century, this profound work offers a spiritual guide to contemplative prayer. The retreat runs 11.30am - 3pm on Monday 13th May at Our Lady of Lourdes and St Gerard Majella's, Lostock Hall, and costs £20 to attend. Find out more and register https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/retreat-may-2024/
Cemetery Mass
A special outdoor Mass will take place at St Joseph's RC Cemetery, Moston, on Monday 27th May. The Mass, led by Canon Paul Daly, will begin at 11am. An additional Mass is also due to take place at the cemetery on Monday 26th August, 11am. In the event of wet weather, Mass will take place at St Dunstan's church.
Talks on the Four Constitutions of Vatican II
In response to Pope Francis' invitation to revisit the Four Constitutions of the Second Vatican Council, the Diocese of Salford is holding a series of four evening talks after Easter. The first talk takes place on Wednesday 10th April when Bishop John will explore a little more about Lumen Gentium. The talk begins at 7pm at Cathedral Centre, 3 Ford Street, Salford, M3 6DP. Find out more about the series and register your interest at https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/constitutions-talks/
Advertisement for new Trustees of CaTEW
The Catholic Trust for England and Wales is sharing an opportunity to join its committed board of trustees. CaTEW provides, through the Conference Secretariat, a centre of knowledge and capability for assisting the Bishops and Dioceses in proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ and supporting the communities of faith in England and Wales. Find out more at https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/CaTEW-new-trustees.pdf or email HR@cbcew.org.uk
Young Adults Mass
The Diocese of Salford's Mass for Young Adults returns to St Augustine's in Manchester on Sunday 14th April. Mass begins at 5.30pm, with opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation from 4.45pm. Join the team after for a catch up and a bite to eat before we hear from the diocesan communications team for a short talk about faith and the media. All are welcome to attend!
"Teach us to Pray"
As part of the Year of Prayer in preparation for Jubilee 2025, the Dicastery for Evangelisation has published a new guide. In ten short sections, it presents some practical suggestions for prayer in different places and circumstances, e.g. parish community; family; young people; retreats. The English version of the document can be viewed and downloaded at: www.iubilaeum2025.va/content/dam/iubilaeum2025/foto-sezioni/2024-anno-della-preghiera/insegnaci-a-pregare/pdf/ENG_Sulla-preghiera-A5-76P-SITO.pdf
Please do take a look and share with any of your parish groups who may be interested.
Manchester and Salford Ecumenical Whit Walk
The annual Manchester and Salford Ecumenical Whit Walk is set to return for another year of prayerful celebration. Taking place on Monday 27th May, the walk will begin at 10am from Manchester Cathedral Gardens, and the group will process to St Peter’s Square for an Act of Worship. Individuals, families, and groups are all welcome to attend!
Pilgrims of Hope Jubilee 2025
Pope Francis has announced that 2025 will be a Year of Jubilee – an event that happens every 25 years. The theme for the upcoming Jubilee is “Pilgrims of Hope”. To find out more about the Jubilee and this preparatory Year of Prayer, please visit https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/news/jubilee-2025/
Can you help our environment team?
Our environment team is looking at how we can improve sustainability around our use of candles in churches. They would be extremely grateful if you could spare a minute to fill out this short questionnaire. Please click here.
Great Manchester Run
Caritas Diocese of Salford is looking for people to take on this year's Great Manchester Run to raise funds to support its work across the diocese. Our diocesan charity works to provide vital support to people across Greater Manchester and Lancashire who are experiencing poverty, homelessness, and discrimination. Find out more at www.caritassalford.org.uk/EveryStep
Our Father Prayer Resources
During this season of Lent, the Diocese of Salford has been sharing a series of short video reflections to help us further explore the words of the Our Father, in response to Pope Francis' invitation to go back to the basics of prayer in preparation for the 2025 Jubilee. Head to https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/lent-2024-rediscovering-prayer/ to find out more.
"Come and See" Enquirers Group for Vocations to the Priesthood
These events are specifically for anyone interested in finding out more about a vocation to the priesthood. If you know of anyone who may be discerning a vocation or would like to find out more, please invite them personally, and then direct them to Fr Michael Deas (michael.deas@dioceseofsalford.org.uk ) or Fr Mark Paver (mark.paver@dioceseofsalford.org.uk ), who will be able share further details.
Launch Mass for Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes in our Centenary Year
The Launch Mass for this year's diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes - marking our centenary year - will be taking place at 7pm on Tuesday 16th April at St Patrick’s, Livesey Street, Collyhurst, M4 5HF. Whether you are planning to join us in Lourdes this summer, or will be praying along at home, you'd be most welcome to join us for our Mass next month. For more information on this year's pilgrimage, including how to book, please visit https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/booking-lourdes-2024/
Diocese of Salford's Annual Pilgrimage to Walsingham
There are still places available for this year's diocesan pilgrimage to Walsingham, taking place on Saturday 4th May, for both overnight and day options. We welcome applications for individuals and groups and would be interested in hearing from anyone who would like to volunteer. Please fill out a booking form, available at https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/walsingham-2024 or you can get in touch by calling 0161 817 2214 or emailing walsingham@pilgrimage@dioceseofsalford.org.uk
Youth Pilgrimage to Walsingham
Salford Youth and Young Adults Ministry is delighted to once again offer a dedicated youth pilgrimage to Walsingham, aimed for students in Years 7,8 and 9. This pilgrimage runs alongside the main diocesan pilgrimage and will leave on Friday 3rd May and return on Saturday 4th May 2024. For further details please contact: youth@dioceseofsalford.org.uk
Hope in the Future Cycle of Prayer
Over the coming weeks, we will be praying for the parishes of Mount Carmel Deanery, for its people, and clergy in our latest Hope in the Future Cycle of Prayer. Please click here to download our latest prayer cycle now.
Hospital Chaplaincy Volunteers Wanted
Are you interested in visiting Catholic patients at the Royal Bolton Hospital? The commitment is modest; just half a day a week - morning or afternoon to suit your availability. Full support and any necessary training will be given. For more information about volunteer chaplains contact the Catholic Chaplain Fr Bob Hayes at the Chaplaincy Office: email robert.hayes@boltonft.nhs.uk or phone 01204 390770.
Your travel to church
As the Diocese of Salford works to reach its goal of being net zero by 2038, we're looking to find out more about the travel patterns of people across the diocese. Our diocesan environment team has put together a short survey to find out more about how people travel to and from church and would be very grateful for your response. The survey can be found at https://forms.gle/skCHYCknBzhDrvbn9
Volunteering at the Laudato Si' Centre
The Diocese of Salford's environment hub - the Laudato Si' Centre - is looking for new recruits to join its team of volunteers. This flexible, rewarding opportunity can be on a regular or ad hoc basis as the team works to develop the Centre's beautiful walled garden and woodland areas, set within the grounds of Wardley Hall. Email laudatosi@dioceseofsalford.org.uk to find out more!
Craft Events at The Laudato Si' Centre
This autumn, the Diocese of Salford's environment hub - The Laudato Si' Centre - is inviting people across the diocese to reconnect with nature through a series of craft workshops. Taking place within the beautiful grounds of the Centre - based at Wardley Hall in Worsley - these fantastic workshops include felting and wreath making. Email laudatosi@dioceseofsalford.org.uk for upcoming dates and further information.
Hope in the Future Legacy Booklet
Thank you to everyone who joined the diocesan Department for Formation for its Hope in the Future Celebration last week and to all who have been involved in the programme. We are delighted to share with you our Hope in the Future Legacy Booklet, which follows our journey over the past six years and provides resources and information for parishes wishing to continue or begin their own project. You can view a copy of the booklet online at https://www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/Hope-in-the-Future-Legacy-Booklet.pdf
"Love for a Lifetime" - Marriage Preparation 2024
Our diocesan Marriage Preparation team invites you to join them in their next Marriage Preparation Course. The course - taking place at St John Fisher's in Kearsley - is open to couples preparing for marriage across the diocese and will take place over two Saturday afternoon seminars. Please visit https://www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/faith/sacraments/marriage/ for dates and further information.
Women Saints and Spirituality
Dates can be found on the link below. Join us as we continue our fascinating series of talks exploring the life and spirituality of women in the Church throughout history. Contact Sister Joan Kerley at joankfmsj@gmail.com or 07934 816 796 to reserve a place. Find out more at https://www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/women-saints-and-spirituality/
Family is Sacred Course
The Department of Formation for the Diocese of Salford is introducing the second course of 'Family is Sacred’, where you are invited to join us on a course offered to families interested in enrichment in married and family life. The course can be attended via Zoom or in person at St John Fisher Parish, Manchester Road, Kearsley, Bolton, BL4 8QQ. Find out more by visiting https://www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/family-is-sacred-course/
CARITAS
Bishop John's message for Caritas Salford campaign - Why Every Step Matters
Bishop John Arnold has recorded a special video message about Caritas Salford's 2024 campaign, which is asking us to do something this year that pushes us out of our comfort zone. You can watch the video and find out more about how you can take on a challenge to support people in your local community here: https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/bishop-john-every-step/
Volunteering opportunities - Caritas Diocese of Salford
As we head into a new season, now might be the perfect for a new challenge! Our diocesan charity, Caritas Salford, is looking for more volunteers to support its work across Greater Manchester and Lancashire. There are a range of different opportunities available to meet individual needs and skillsets, and full training and support is given every step of the way. If you're interested in finding out more, please contact Matt Yates: m.yates@caritassalford.org.uk or visit the Caritas website: www.caritassalford.org.uk/volunteer
Caritas Diocese of Salford Newsletter
Did you know that our diocesan charity, Caritas Diocese of Salford, now has a monthly e-newsletter providing update, news and event details? To join the mailing list, please email Rachel Taylor: comms@caritassalford.org.uk
Compassion - Welcoming Communities
Caritas Salford has produced a toolkit on Welcoming Communities and Compassion. Refugees who use their services have shared what this means to them and what this looks like in action. Take a look at what you can do in your parish or wider community to show your support and help create a more welcoming community for all: https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/news/refugee-week-2/
Clothing Donations for Caritas Diocese of Salford
Caritas Salford is appealing for donations of unwanted, clean clothing to help support people in the area experiencing poverty, homelessness and discrimination. The charity will give appropriate donated items to people experiencing homelessness who access their services in Greater Manchester and Lancashire, with other items being used to raise much-needed funds to help Caritas Salford continue its work. Clothing can be donated at the charity’s Caritas House building in Collyhurst from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm Tuesday to Friday: Caritas House, Nobby Stiles Drive, Collyhurst, Manchester, M4 4FA.
Job Vacancies
Education Administrator - The Diocese of Salford (replacement role) Appointment Type: Full time, permanent (term time only will be considered) Working Hours: 35 hours per week, Mon - Fri. Location: Cathedral Centre, 3 Ford Street, Salford, M3 6DP Salary: £24,983 - £28,668 per annum
Head of Human Resources - The Diocese of Salford (replacement role) Appointment Type: Full time, permanent Working Hours: 35 hours per week, Mon - Fri. Location: Cathedral Centre, 3 Ford Street, Salford, M3 6DP Salary: £51,101 - £58,639 per annum
To find out more about any of the above vacancies and to apply, go to: https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/news/vacancies/
Mass for the forthcoming Sunday (3rd Sunday of Easter)
If you would like to prepare for next Sunday by meditating on the Scripture readings, the texts are:
First Reading: Acts 3:13-15. 17-19
Psalm 4
Second Reading: 1 John 2:1-5
Gospel: 24:35-48
Daily and Sunday Mass Readings for up to a week in advance can be found at: www.universalis.com