Upcoming Activities & Offerings

If you have a Red Box, please bring it to church.  If you would like to participate in this charity (and we would appreciate your joining in), please see Fr Anil or one of the church helpers.

“…Pope Francis reflects on the central theme of the upcoming Jubilee of Hope and reiterates his pressing appeal for debt forgiveness,…

“Recalling that in the Jewish tradition, the Jubilee was a special year of universal remission of sins and debts liberating the oppressed, the Pope notes that in our day too, this special year of grace ‘is an event that inspires us to seek to establish the liberating justice of God in our world,’ marred by injustices and ‘systemic’ challenges that Saint John Paul II termed ‘structures of sin.’…”

(Independent Catholic News, Source: Vatican News, 12 Dec. 2024. For the full article, see https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/51296

The total amount raised for the Parish Christmas Fayre is £3,140. Thanks to all those who helped organise, those who contributed and those who made donations.

A time to renew our commitment and consecration to Jesus Christ, the true Man and true God.

When - December 21st, Saturday, 2024.  ALL ARE WELCOME

9.00 AM – Holy Rosary

9.30 AM - Spiritual Talks

10.15 AM - Tea Break

10.30 AM – Spiritual Talks

11.30 AM - Holy Hour and Confessions

12.30 - Holy Mass.

Please reflect on how you can best use your God-given gifts to help sustain the spiritual vigour of our Parish and help it grow further as a community of the faithful.  

See the Pledge Form and the Time and Talents checklist of volunteering activities in the rear of the church and in the Special Notice section of the Newsletter page on this website. 

Please, everyone, take a copy, complete and return it to Fr Anil.  Your generosity for special causes in the past is well recognized.  

Please be generous again (yet realistic) in offering your time and talents – and financial help - for the benefit of our community of the faithful.  

Extend yourself that extra bit for Our Parish.

“…We are living in a world filled with diverse beliefs and countless paths to spiritual fulfilment. This makes it therefore important to note that the decision to follow Jesus, remains one of personal choice rather than compulsion. This foundational aspect of Christianity underscores the importance of free will, love and personal conviction in the journey of faith….

"This voluntary aspect of our Christian vocation is crucial because it aligns with the nature of God, who desires a genuine relationship with His followers, not one born out of coercion….”

 (Diocese of East Anglia, Keith Morris, 31 August 2024.  For the full article, see https://www.rcdea.org.uk/a-hope-that-you-can-believe-in/   

“…[Pope Francis] said may each of us in our spiritual journey ‘walk in search of God and contribute to building open societies, founded on reciprocal respect and mutual love, capable of protecting against rigidity, fundamentalism and extremism, which are always dangerous and never justifiable.’…” 

 (The Catholic Church, Bishops’ Conference of England & Wales, 5 September 2024.)  For the full message see https://www.cbcew.org.uk/pope-at-mosque-in-indonesia-may-we-cultivate-friendship-as-pilgrims-on-our-way-to-god/

“…We have often seen good coming out of the most horrific circumstances, as people find in themselves their best instincts to repair and build community and stand against the forces of division and hatred. We hope that these tragic events mark a decisive turning away from the politics of hatred and division towards a spirit of solidarity and service.  In the CSAN network, many of our members work in the most disadvantaged communities, seeking to restore human dignity and help to bring agency and hope to people on the margins of society….”

  (The Catholic Church, Bishops’ Conference of England & Wales, 6 August 2024.)  For the full message see https://www.cbcew.org.uk/caritas-social-action-network-calls-for-solidarity-and-service-to-triumph-over-hatred-and-division/

The Diocese of East Anglia is responsible for 26 schools across the diocese. They all need foundation governors to provide support and challenge and oversight of the work of the school. 

We need more practising Catholics to put themselves forward to serve as foundation governors. If this is something you feel you might be able to contribute to (and full training and support will be provided) we would love to hear from you.

If this could be something of interest to you, please contact me, Andy Stone, Director of Schools’ Service by email andy.stone@rcdea.org.uk or by phone on 07500701977.

Develop your skills and help your community and its children at the same time. Volunteer to be a school governor at Forest Academy, Brandon, today.  Or become a Member of the Academy Trust.

For more information, contact Phil Richardson, par.uk@gmx.co.uk.

Chair of the Trust Board at St John the Baptist Catholic Multi Academy Trust

“Senior church leaders from across Norfolk and Waveney publicly signed a Declaration of Commitment for Christian Unity, pledging to work together towards their shared mission,…

"[Bishop Usher said] ’Our best work ecumenically is done locally where a thousand projects bring hope and healing and blessing. Projects across Norfolk and Waveney that gather people around Jesus, that seek heavenly things and projects that share the life of Jesus. Christians working together to Love God and their neighbour….’”

 (Diocese of East Anglia, Keith Morris, 25 Nov. 2024.  For the full article, see 

https://www.rcdea.org.uk/norfolk-church-leaders-sign-declaration-of-unity/

“For over a year, we have witnessed the tragic escalation of a severe humanitarian crisis affecting countless lives in the Middle East. As people of faith, we have a vital role in advocating for peace, condemning atrocities, and supporting those who suffer…. [we have drafted] a letter calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, unimpeded access to humanitarian aid, an end to the occupation and violence in the West Bank, and the protection of Holy sites in Jerusalem….It is not too late to sign the letter … The form will be open until 9 December to collect additional signatures. 

Sign the letter here: https://paxchristi.net/embracing-our-faith/

 (Independent Catholic News, Source: Pax Christi International, 12 Nov. 2024.  For the full article, see https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/51072

“Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP) is co-sponsoring the Take a Stand for the Holy Land Campaign alongside the Palestinian Christian Alliance for Peace (PCAP) and Friends of Sabeel North America. This campaign was created to call attention to Israel's confiscation of Christian and Muslim property and escalation of violence against Palestinians….Throughout the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, Israel is emptying the most fertile land of its Christian and Muslim inhabitants and using their property to build and expand segregated settlements, which are forbidden on occupied territory under international law….”

 (Independent Catholic News, 20 Nov. 2024.  For the full article, see https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/51137

“…In the letter, the Pope reflects on the value of history as a communal inheritance, stressing that the study of the Church goes beyond memorising dates and events.

“It is about keeping ‘the flame of collective conscience alive,’ he said, explaining that by doing so, the faithful can navigate the present with a clearer sense of perspective, rooted in the Church's lived experience across centuries….”

 (Independent Catholic News, Source: Vatican News, 31 Nov. 2024.  For the full article, see https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/51145

“…The Christian calling is not a calling to perfection.  It is a calling to remain uncomfortably with our imperfections so that God’s glory can shine all the more powerfully….”

….The Bible Society, 22 Sep. 2016.  See full article at https://www.biblesociety.org.uk/explore-the-bible/bible-articles/what-does-jesus-mean-when-he-says-be-perfect

“…In Sudan, ten million civilians - a quarter of the population - have fled their homes to escape indiscriminate bombing by the warring parties; and more than six million face starvation. There are serious geopolitical implications whichever of Sudan's battling militias wins….Yet, a deadly combination of racism ("this is what happens in Africa") and other conflicts competing for the headlines ("compassion fatigue") has sidelined Sudan….Those responsible for the killing have so far faced no consequences, concluding that they can continue the slaughter with impunity….”

 (Independent Catholic News, Rebecca Tinsley, 31 Oct. 2024.  For the full article, see https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/50989

If you are unable to come to Mass and would like Holy Communion or other sacraments Fr Anil is very willing to visit you at home. Please do get in contact and don’t just assume the parish has your details on file. The Parish database suffered immensely from the changes in GDPR guidelines a few years ago and many parishioners details are not held on file.

Mass is not something the “Priest does” alone, it is the action of the whole People of God. As such it is a prayer and act of supreme worship. Making the responses clearly and audibly is one simple but important way in which we pray the Mass.

“Mother Church earnestly desires that all the faithful should be led to that fully conscious, and activeparticipation in liturgical celebrations which is demanded by the very nature of the liturgy. Such participation by the Christian people as "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a redeemed people, is their right and duty by reason of their baptism.”
                                                                                               Vatican II (SC 14)

The Irish station Radio RTE, which is based in Dublin, is broadcasting to the UK on long wave 252kHz. Every other Sunday they broadcast Mass at 11am.

Radio Maria England, which is based in Cambridge, broadcasts on DAB+ in Greater London and on DAB (Band 11C 220.352 MHz) in Cambridgeshire and the surrounding areas.  You can also listen to it from across East Anglia online at https://radiomariaengland.uk  Broadcasts include Masses, the Rosary, the Stations of the Cross, and morning and evening prayer.

EWTN, which has a base in Walsingham, Norfolk, produces a wide range of radio programmes and can be reached on https://www.ewtn.com/radio

Premier Christian Radio is on DAB, Internet and can be also accessed via TV Freeview 725.

Scared? Need to talk? Struggling to get shopping or basic groceries?

Pick up the phone!  Your parish is your family and we are here for you, in the first instance feel free to call Fr Anil on 01842 812200 and he will do his best to help you, support you and put you in contact with others who may be able to help. If you don’t get an answer.  Leave a message and your number (Clearly) and he will get back to you.

(especially if you are having trouble live-streaming Online)

Radio Stations: DAB (Digital) Radio: Radio Maria England, Premier Christian Radio (available on TV Radio as well and has Sunday Morning Worship) Radio 4 Has Sunday Worship on Sunday Morning at 8:10 am on FM and a Daily Service at 9:45 am on Long Wave (not FM).

TV: Sky TV 588 is ETWN (Catholic Channel) and has Daily Mass broadcast as well as other prayers and devotions.

Websites: https://pray-as-you-go.org/ https://shalem.org/programs/online/holy-interruptions/
https://stpaulcenter.com/hub/

Coloring prayer resources: If you would like adult-coloring sheets, to help with
prayer/mindfulness/meditation please contact Fr Luke and he will try and source them for you.

An anonymous donor has given the parish 10 copies of this Redemptorist booklet, which can be used by children (with or without their parents, depending on age) to follow and learn about the Mass. Users can colour in and wipe off again and again. 

Five of the copies will be available in each church. You may use it, but please clean and return it after Mass. If you want to take it home for study between masses, please do so, but return it the following week. Thank you. 

Has your house been blessed? Would you like a home visit and a blessing for you home and family? 

If you would like Fr Anil to visit you in your home and invoke God’s blessing upon your home and family, please speak to him after Mass or call the presbytery. 

Even if your home has been blessed in the past we can still pray together and ask for God’s blessing upon our lives. It’s also an excellent way for priest and parish to get to know each other! 

The Fund deals with emergency grant applications from families or individuals in need. It also considers support for young people wishing to explore a third world project in their gap years or long vacations. 

The fund is administered by Caritas East Anglia. All applications come from the parish or endorsements from professionals working with applicants. 

Over the past year, the Fund has supported families and individuals facing homelessness or job losses resulting in rent arrears. Others helped have been dealing with the sudden onset of terminal illness. 

For more details go to:  https://www.rcdea.org.uk/caritas-east-anglia/ 

“In a letter sent yesterday to migrants gathered in Lajas Blancas, Panama, Pope Francis spoke about his own family, who emigrated from Italy to Argentina in the 1920s. Migrants are ‘the face of Christ’, whom the Church lovingly offers ‘relief and hope,’ the Pope wrote. He spoke of wanting to accompany them personally, and expressed his understanding for their situation. ‘I too am a child of migrants,’ he said, ‘who set out in search of a better future.’…”

Independent Catholic News, 22 Mar 24. Full article: https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/49399

“A Norwich Catholic parishioner is helping more churches across Norfolk to engage with the Operation Christmas Child campaign, run by international relief organisation Samaritan’s Purse, and fill shoeboxes with gifts for needy children around the world.

“…Operation Christmas Child (OCC) has been collecting and delivering shoebox gifts—filled with school supplies, hygiene items and fun toys—to children worldwide for three decades….Those interested in more information on Operation Christmas Child for your church, school, group or business can contact Mark and Debra Watkins at markdebrawatkinsocc@yahoo.com .” 

Diocese of East Anglia, Keith Morris, 25 August 2023. See the full article at

https://www.rcdea.org.uk/norfolk-churches-urged-to-join-shoebox-project/  

Theme: “Called to More: Finding God in the Hidden Things of Daily Life.”

This retreat aims to provide women with the tools and insights needed to recognise and embrace the divine presence in every detail of their lives, fostering a deeper and more intimate connection with God.  

It is a unique opportunity to step away from the busyness of daily life and reflect on how God is present in every moment, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. We warmly invite all women to join us for a day of reflection, prayer, and spiritual renewal.

Time: 11am – 4pm (Optional parish mass at 10.30am)

Location: Our Lady Immaculate & St Etheldreda, Newmarket, CB8 8LT. In the hall.  

Retreat led by: The Community of Our Lady of Walsingham

Participants are asked to bring a packed lunch, though soup and bread will be provided. The suggested donation for the day is between £5 and £10, payable on the day via cash or card.

For mothers attending the retreat, there will be childcare facilities provided on-site by the Sisters.

Due to the limited space, booking is essential for this retreat. Please complete the booking form found at. https://www.rcdea.org.uk/east-anglia-diocese-announces-retreat-day-for-women/ .

For any further questions, please contact Antonia Braithwaite at mflcoordinator@rcdea.org.uk.

Join us for a night of celebration and dancing as Radio Maria marks its 5th anniversary! We're hosting a lively ceilidh dance and buffet at St Mary's School, Bateman St, Cambridge CB2 1LY, on Wednesday, 9th October, starting at 7 PM. It's set to be an unforgettable evening filled with music, laughter, and great company. Don’t miss out on this special event! 

For more information and to secure your tickets, visit www.RadioMariaEngland.uk/Events.

There were a few people that didn't manage to receive an order of service and/or memorial card from Nial Murphy's funeral. The family have now had some more printed -- if anyone would like one could they let Mary Rider know.....01638 714369 or mary.rider@hotmail.co.uk as soon as possible.

“…Multiculturalism is one of the most ambitious social goals you can imagine. Some people would give up and say it’s impossible … But the New Testament presents cross-cultural unity as something manifest in the Church as a glorious result of the victory of Jesus. Membership of God’s family is open to people all cultures. And they’re seizing hold of it. …”

  (Bible Society, James Howard-Smith, 13 August 2024.  For the full article, see.  https://www.biblesociety.org.uk/explore-the-bible/bible-articles/why-are-asylum-seekers-so-important-to-god/

“Pope Francis has said that it would be fitting to celebrate the Jubilee Year in 2025 by cancelling all or most of the debts of world's poorest countries…. we need ‘a new international financial architecture that is courageous and creative’…  He noted that debt cancellation during a Jubilee Year is a biblical tradition….”

 (Independent Catholic News, Source: Vatican News, 22 August 2024.  For the full article, see.  https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/50476

“… is the theme of a Diocese of East Anglia Retreat Day For Women to be run by the Community of Our Lady of Walsingham in Newmarket in October….

“It will take place on Saturday October 12 at Our Lady Immaculate & St Etheldreda Newmarket Church, CB8 8LT.

“Booking is essential; please contact Antonia Braithwaite to book a place and for more details:  mflcoordinator@rcdea.org.uk

 (Diocese of East Anglia, Keith Morris, 22 August 2024.  For the full article, see.   https://www.rcdea.org.uk/new-group-womens-retreat-sight-loss-friendly-church/

“The Presidents of Churches Together in England (CTE) have issued a statement calling on churches and communities to work together to end racism, division and disorder. CTE is the national ecumenical organisation that encourages Christian unity and brings together 54 member churches. Cardinal Vincent Nichols is one of its Presidents….”

 (Independent Catholic News, Source: CTE, 7 August 2024.  For the full article, see.  https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/50374

“…The SVP Temporary Emergency Accommodation (TEA) Project, first established over 5 years ago in Cromer and Sheringham has now been further enlarged to cater for more homeless families since the need for emergency family accommodation has doubled during that period. The whole project of 3 properties now protects up to 7 families and more than 20 children at any one time….”

 (Diocese of East Anglia, Joshua Clovis, 6 August 2024.  For the full article, see.  https://www.rcdea.org.uk/svp-house-reopens-expanding-family-accommodation/

“On Saturday July 6, parishioners in Thetford gathered in the presbytery to celebrate the 198th anniversary of the opening of the parish church.

“Built in 1826, the Catholic church in Thetford was built before Catholic Emancipation and Queen Victoria was not even queen yet and when Pope Leo XII was in the Vatican….”

 (Diocese of East Anglia, Joshua Clovis, 8 August 2024.  For the full article, see.  https://www.rcdea.org.uk/thetford-parish-celebrates-churchs-198th-anniversary/

As you may well have heard, the Bishop has appointed me to the parishes of Our Lady and St John, Sudbury & St Joseph’s, Hadleigh effective at the end of September. I had hoped not to have to release this news so soon, but it had been in the ‘Ad Clerum’ and inevitably these things leak out. I will also be going on holiday in the middle of August and will be back to the parish in the first week of September.

Some of you have already heard that our new Parish Priest is going to be Fr Anil Zacheria, currently working as Assistant Priest at Our Lady and English Martyrs Church, Cambridge.Fr Anil will be arriving in the parish at the end of September. We pray for him and wish him every blessing on his ministry in our parish. A definite date of his arrival will be published in the near future. A cordial welcome to Fr Anil.

Fr Antony Arockiam

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“Clerical moves set to take place across the diocese

“…Fr Anthony Arockiam has been appointed as Priest-in-Charge at Our Lady and St John the Evangelist, Sudbury, moving from St Thomas of Canterbury in Brandon.

“Fr Anil Zachary has been appointed as Priest-in-Charge at St Thomas of Canterbury, Brandon, moving from Bury St Edmunds.

“Bishop Peter said: ‘These appointments become operational on Sunday September 22 and I am grateful to these priests for their willingness to take up new pastoral responsibilities.…”

 (Diocese of East Anglia, Keith Morris, 14 August 2024.  For the full article, see.   https://www.rcdea.org.uk/clerical-moves-set-to-take-place-across-the-diocese/

“The Vatican has granted permission for Our Lady of Walsingham to be celebrated as a new Feast in the dioceses of England, starting this year on September 24….”

 (Diocese of East Anglia,  Joshua Clovis , 16 July 2024.  For the full article, see  https://www.rcdea.org.uk/our-lady-of-walsingham-raised-to-the-rank-of-feast/

“Pope Francis has learnt with great sorrow about the attacks on medical centres in Kyiv and on a school in Gaza, and hopes and prays for concrete solutions to end the wars….

“Pope Francis has tirelessly appealed for peace and negotiated solutions to the wars in Ukraine and in Gaza, as well as sending Vatican envoys to both territories with humanitarian aid and messages of closeness and concern….”

 (Independent Catholic News, Source: Vatican Media, 9 July 2024).  For the full article see https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/50166  

Working document released for second session of Synod on Synodality

“…Download.  Instrumentum Laboris – Synod 2024

“This Vatican News article explains how two key focal points of the document are the need for transparency and accountability, and the role of women in the Church….”

 (The Catholic Church, Bishops’ Conference of England & Wales, 9 July 2024.)  For the full message, see  https://www.cbcew.org.uk/working-document-released-for-second-session-of-synod-on-synodality/

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“Cardinal welcomes Instrumentum laboris for October’s Synod

“…The theme of ‘How to be a missionary Synodal Church’ is explored imaginatively in three dimensions: relations, pathways and places….”

 (The Catholic Church, Bishops’ Conference of England & Wales, 9 July 2024.)  For the full message, see  https://www.cbcew.org.uk/cardinal-welcomes-instrumentum-laboris-for-octobers-synod/

“Fr Alvan Ibeh takes a look at the power of pressure in his latest Voice of Hope column….We may not always be pressured, but we often are. We’re not always perplexed, but it happens more than we think….

"No one is exempt from these things, even if you are the greatest prayer warrior on earth….

"One will still ask at this point, ‘If God truly loves us, is it fair then that He should allow us to be pressured at all, even though Jesus experienced pressure Himself?...’

"…God presses you because there is something He sees in you. Feeling pressure means you are doing something that matters, so you must not stop, just keep pressing forward….”

 (Diocese of East Anglia, Keith Morris, 7 July 2024.  For the full article, see https://www.rcdea.org.uk/the-power-of-pressure/

“For politicians to be 'tough on crime' could be perceived as them grabbing the low-hanging fruit, particularly at canvassing time. Most members of society want to feel safe and secure in their community and declarations of intent to build more prisons rarely perturb the public zeitgeist. Incarceration appears to be the normative form of retribution for crime. But is there a more nuanced approach, one that can serve to enhance public safety and minimise negative impact on innocent family members of the offender as well as administer just and effective punishment?...”

 (Independent Catholic News, Carolanne Henry, 26 June 2024).  For the full article see https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/50062   

“…’So they use food as a weapon, so that once food is not delivered, their enemy is weakened. That’s their point of view.’  Bishop Alex said that “the famine is not because there is drought, it’s because of the conflict”:…”

 (The Catholic Church, Bishops’ Conference of England & Wales, 4 July 2024.)  For the full message, see   https://www.cbcew.org.uk/food-is-being-used-as-a-weapon-warns-south-sudanese-bishop/

“…to those who responded to the world’s biggest humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan. Our partner, Caritas Sudan, is alongside people right now providing shelter for displaced people, helping people with emergency food and assisting with planting crops now …. 

Please, please keep the people of Sudan and the incredible work our Catholic partners are doing there in your prayers.…”

CAFOD is offering 1-hour training sessions on Zoom for anyone interested in building their confidence for public speaking. 

Designed for beginners and anyone who needs to make announcements, ask for volunteers or speak on behalf of a charity or a parish appeal at Mass. 

Come along to learn new skills, practise, and discover how you can inspire our congregation. It’ll be inviting, relaxed and fun! 

Register here to receive the link. Date and time: Saturday 13 July, 11am-12pm and Tuesday 16 July, 7pm-8pm.

“Clare Priory’s Craft Fair, a highlight of Suffolk’s summer events, returns July 13 and 14, showcasing 150 stalls, music, and family fun in a historic setting….”

Diocese of East Anglia, Joshua Clovis, 22 Feb 2024. Full article at: https://www.rcdea.org.uk/clare-priory-to-celebrate-30th-annual-craft-fair-in-suffolk/

“Seafarers navigating the Red and Black Seas face escalating threats, from Houthi attacks to Russian military targeting. Stella Maris chaplains in Ukraine provide crucial support amidst these dangers….

“On Sea Sunday, which falls on July 14 this year, let us pray for seafarers, fishers, and the work of Stella Maris. Let us remember especially those seafarers who are sailing through conflict zones and those who have been abandoned in distant lands. 

"To find out more about Sea Sunday, please visit: https://stellamaris.org.uk/seasunday/  To donate to Stella Maris, please go to: https://stellamaris.org.uk/donate/

 (Diocese of East Anglia, Joshua Clovis, 2 July 2024.  For the full article, see https://www.rcdea.org.uk/seafarers-face-dangers-as-sea-sunday-approaches/

“Last month saw the launch of All Kinds of Catholic, a new weekly podcast. The project has been created by Theresa Alessandro who hosts the episodes. 

"A new conversation with a different Catholic guest is released every Wednesday. The dialogue focusses on how each person is living their faith in the world today…. "

 (Independent Catholic News, 3 July 2024).  For the full article see https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/50117

“Cardinal Vincent Nichols, President of the Bishops’ Conference, has offered his congratulations to new Prime Minister Keir Starmer after Labour’s election victory….

"The Cardinal, acknowledging the challenges of leadership, said the Catholic Church stands ready to work constructively with the government in matters of education and other areas that serve the common good:…”

 (The Catholic Church, Bishops’ Conference of England & Wales, 5 July 2024.)  For the full message, see  https://www.cbcew.org.uk/cardinal-congratulates-new-prime-minister-keir-starmer/

“Pope Francis met with more than 100 comedians from around the world …. He encouraged them to cheer people up and help people see reality with all its contradictions….Pope Francis told comedians they are in possession of ‘a precious gift,’ that can spread peace ‘within hearts and between peoples, helping us to overcome difficulties and cope with daily stress.’…"

(Independent Catholic News, Source: Vatican News, 14 June 2024).  For the full article see https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/49983

“…’Don't despair, and live your faith in public….”

(Independent Catholic News, James Somerville-Meikle, Source: Catholic Union, 11 June 2024).  For the full article see https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/49965

“…Materials include JM's requests for the new government, a youth guide to the election, what Catholic Social Teaching says on elections and tailored prayer resources.

“There are also reflections from specialists in areas affected by conflict, such as Myanmar and Palestine,…

“Visit: https://jesuitmissions.org.uk/general-election-2024-resources/ for a full list of materials, and search 'Jesuit Missions' on social media for regular updates….”

(Independent Catholic News, 10 June 2024).  For the full article see https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/49957

“…His Holiness Pope Francis …expresses gratitude for those bearing witness to the sanctity of human life in all its stages.

“His Holiness prays that through their reflection on the theme “The Lord is my shepherd – compassion and hope at the end of life”, this public testimony will encourage a deeper understanding of the precious gift of life and a greater desire to protect the most vulnerable from a culture that would pressure them into ‘assisted suicide’, which is falsely presented as a form of compassion. ….”

 (The Catholic Church, Bishops’ Conference of England & Wales, 29 May 2024.)  For the full message, see  https://www.cbcew.org.uk/pope-francis-gives-his-blessing-to-day-for-life/

“There’s a new debt crisis crippling lower income countries. Many governments are spending more money on debt payments than on health or education. As record sums of money flow from some of the poorest nations to line the pockets of the world’s biggest banks such as HSBC and BlackRock, we need to take a stand against this injustice.  

"Take action now by writing to the UK’s political leaders calling for a new Debt Justice Law.  Sign our petition to UK party leaders now”

Go to https://cafod.org.uk and click on ‘The New Debt Crisis’.

“…The Pope emphasized the importance of priests living within a network of fraternal relationships because ‘we are not meant to journey alone’ and expressed his gratitude for the generosity with which the majority of priests work, in the face of many difficulties….

“The decline in vocations to the priestly and consecrated life is ‘one of the great challenges for the People of God,’ the Pope said. He added that the crisis also affects vocations to marriage….”

 (Independent Catholic News, Source: Vatican News, 6 June 2024).  For the full article see https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/49934

“When the trials of life feel like they have you rushing without control down a river of despair, cling to the presence and purposefulness of God. Just know you are not alone; 

“…Sometimes, we may be tempted to conclude from our circumstances that God has abandoned us or that He is displeased with us. But what if whatever we are passing through were intended to reveal something else? What if God means to show us the preciousness of his Love, while strengthening our faith?...”

 (Diocese of East Anglia, Keith Morris, 26 May 2024.  For the full article, see https://www.rcdea.org.uk/jesus-is-always-close-to-you-says-fr-alvan/  

“…we are risking the wellbeing of present and future generations - yet faith-based groups can serve as beacons of hope. ‘It's heartening to witness the proactive response of faith-based organizations around the world…We are guided by principles of stewardship, compassion, and reverence for the natural world.’…”

(Independent Catholic News, 5 June 2024).  For the full article see https://www.indcatholicnews.com/news/49923

“Pope Francis has said cancelling debts of countries unable to repay them is ‘a matter of justice’.  The call comes in a message outlining the Pope's vision for the Catholic Church's Jubilee year in 2025.  The Pope also called in the document – titled 'Spes non confundit', or 'Hope does not disappoint' – for an end to arms sales and renewed action to tackle poverty and hunger….”

CAFOD, 11 May 2024, for more details, go to https://cafod.org.uk/news/campaigning-news/jubilee-2025-pope-francis-issues-new-call-for-debt-cancellation

We are a small parish, as everybody knows and, unusually, we have to maintain three buildings. Fortunately, we have a congregation which, time after time, provides funds, through offertory payments, stole fees and donations. So we are very grateful. One way in which you can help the parish in the long term is to consider a bequest in your will. Talk to Fr Luke or Philip Kemp for further information about this.

Plese reflect on how you can best use your God-given gifts to help sustain the spiritual vigour of our Parish and help it grow further as a community of the faithful.  

See the Pledge Form and the Time and Talents checklist of volunteering activities in the rear of the church and in the Special Notice section of the Newsletter page on this website. 

Please, everyone, take a copy, complete and return it to Fr Anil.  Your generosity for special causes in the past is well recognized.  

Please be generous again (yet realistic) in offering your time and talents – and financial help - for the benefit of our community of the faithful.  

Extend yourself that extra bit for Our Parish.

Thank you all for helping to keep the parish going, your generosity means we are surviving as a parish. Although we have returned to public Masses, we are still not able to take a collection at Mass, so we still rely on your giving:

Please consider how you can donate at least equal to your normal giving.

Here’s how you can do this:

1. By Standing Order or Direct Debit. A form is included in the next section which you can use. Details of the parish’s bank account are

• Bank Name: Lloyds Bank plc
• Bank Address: Thetford (309858) Branch
• Sort Code: 30-98-58
• Account Number: 00489176
• These details are already printed on the Standing Order form below. You can set this up online or post this to your bank, if you are unable to go there in person.

2. By making a transfer from your bank account to the parish’s, using the details above.

3. By sending a cheque to the parish made out to Brandon & Mildenhall RC Parish.

                      ***  Please do not send cash  ***

We suggest that you arrange these payments on a monthly basis, starting on the first Monday of each month.

Thank you to all those who have been making bank transfers or forwarded cheques as offertory donations to the Parish since the lockdown commenced. Bank transfers are preferred but if you do make cheque payments please note that the payee details for the Parish are "Brandon and Mildenhall Catholic Parish".

THANK YOU for helping in keeping the parish going.

                   Fr. Anil Zachery, Parish Priest 

                   Philip Kemp, Parish Treasurer

• Simply clink on the DONA button below to donate to our church online.  This action takes you to our online donation portal. When you see the input page, simply enter the amount you want to donate, then click 'Donate'; on the next page, enter your credit card details and again click 'Donate'. That's all you need to do to help keep our parish financially viable.

New Gift Aid envelopes have arrived but are not being distributed until Sunday Mass collections resume. Parishioners who are in the Gift Aid scheme are encouraged to make their offertory contributions preferably by bank transfer, or by cheque, as indeed many are doing so already. Your contributions are still being collated for Gift Aid claim purposes. Many thanks.

Thank you to those who have signed up to GA. If you missed this and would like to discuss your GA, please let me know. If you pay UK tax the Parish can claim back 25% of your Sunday offering from the tax office. The only details required are your name, address and signature confirming you pay UK tax. Philip Kemp Tel 07514430468 Email pjkemp1@gmail.com

I am obliged to inform existing members of the Gift Aid Scheme that I will be claiming tax rebates for  tax year just past on your behalf unless informed of the contrary. You are also requested to advise me of any changes in address, post code or name in the last 12 months.

Thank you

Philip Kemp, Parish Treasurer & Gift Aid Organiser

Tel 07514430468; Email pjkemp1@gmail.com

Around the end / beginning of the year is the time when most 50-50 Club subscription renewals are due. This can be paid by cash, cheque, bank transfer or card payments through the Parish website. Bank transfers - please reference '50-50 club'. Web payments - email me so I know. Cash or cheques can be passed on to me (Philip Kemp).

Please speak to Joanne Thomas at St Thomas's (Tel 07549 946444 email joannethomas@btopenworld.com ) or Philip Kemp at St John's (Tel 07514430468 email pjkemp1@gmail.com ). Do consider becoming a member if you are not already and help raise valuable funds for the Parish.  

Monthly winners are announced in the Parish Newsletters. If you are uncertain whether you are a 50-50 Club member or if you are not sure how many numbers you have, please get in touch. Contact details above.

The 50:50 Club is a major source of income to help keep this parish running.   ---  FACT 

The proceeds go half to winners and half to the parish   --- FACT 

You can join now!  ---  FACT 

Speak to David Thomas (St Thomas’); Janet Murphy (St John’s)  ---  SIMPLE! 

50:50 Club Winnings

Winners can email me their bank details to facilitate a bank transfer.

PhilipKemp: pjkemp1@gmail.com

Having a mass said or paying for flowers in the church are practical ways supporting the work of the parish. Please give your donations to Fr Anil or Philip Kemp. 

The Easter and Christmas offering is given to the Parish Priest and forms a significant part of his annual income. 

If you would like to give to Fr Anil this Easter or Christmas, you can do so in several ways:

• Make a bank transfer to the parish with the details on the back of the newsletter referencing the payment “Fr Anil”, 
• Write a cheque payable to “Fr Anil Zachery”
• Hand cash to him or to Philip Kemp in an envelope directly marked “Fr Anil or Easter / Christmas Offering”,  or
• Use the special “Easter / Christmas Offering” tab on the website DONA to give.

Please use “Fr Anil” or “Easter / Christmas Offering” as the reference for these gifts.Thank you.

A new book by a local Catholic author Derek Williams is available at the back of the Church priced £7.99.

“Tithing for Catholics is an innovative piece of writing that cuts to the heart of Scripture and Church Teaching…. the author takes us on a journey of first-hand experiences that demonstrate how tithing is a real service of faith that won’t let you down because God cannot be outdone in generosity”

                                                                        - From the cover of ‘Tithing for Catholics’

Please place money in CTS box or give to Fr Anil directly.

The Parish - whole Church – depends on its members for finance to achieve its mission. That is why we have first and second collections at Mass and welcome people’s generosity in making donations. 

Have you considered continuing your contributions after you have departed? 

You can do this by making a gift in your will. You can specify what it is to be spent on and the charity that will benefit.  Talk to our treasurer for more information: 

Philip Kemp: Tel 07514430468; Email pjkemp1@gmail.com 

Whether you want to support a local cause such as your parish or diocese, provide for vulnerable families in the UK or help overseas communities and parishes, a legacy could be the most far-reaching gift you ever make.

Go to https://www.yourcatholiclegacy.org for more information.

Having a Mass offered for someone’s intention is a good and holy thing to do. It is important to remember, however, that Mass is always offered in the first instance for all people. (For For God’s Glory and our sanctification) No one buys or owns a Mass. A Mass is always ‘our Mass’ - even if offered for a particular individual. Please also remember that in our parish only one Sunday Mass can be offered for an intention that someone has asked for. 

There can be a bit of a back log with Mass intentions:

• If you would like Mass offered for a particular intention on or near a specific day, (and at a specific location) please give as much notice as possible – some people book days a year in advance. 
• If the date that you would like is unavailable. Mass will be offered at the requested location, on the next available free-day. However, this means that it could be as long as six weeks after the proposed date. 
• If you are not too-concerned about where Mass will be offered (Brandon or Mildenhall) then it is often possible to fit a Mass in sooner than this. 

Want to know more about the Church?  Perhaps you are a Catholic but missed out on making your confirmation as a youngster.

If this is you, please consider joining our RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) programme. Please write to Fr Luke expressing your interest.

Free e-book (with church imprimatur) for your computer/tablet/phone:

The new Liturgical Year begins on the First Sunday of Advent. This e-book may be downloaded free of charge to any computer/tablet/phone. It offers the Gospel for every day of the coming Liturgical Year A-2 (Sundays Year A, weekdays Year 2), together with a reflection of some 750 words on each daily Gospel. 

The e-book may be passed on for downloading to friends or acquaintances as desired, and may be accessed at the following URL address:  www.catholic-thoughts.info/ebook/

As a parish, we are dedicated to working for fair treatment of growers and suppliers in the Third World. 

Because of lack of support, we no longer have a Traidcraft stall at Mildenhall, but we are still obliged to use Fairly Traded tea and coffee. If these cannot be purchased from shops and supermarkets locally, Gillian Caple can order it from Traidcraft. Please ask her. 

Locally, Sainsbury’s have opted out of using the Fair Trade logo and, therefore, there is uncertainty about the status of their products. Non-fair trade brands such as Nescafe, Lavazza, etc. should not be used in St John’s. Please inspect purchases carefully for the Fairtrade logo. 

We have a number of ways of recording people for whom prayers are said, including, books at each church and this section of our weekly Newsletter. 

In the Newsletter we record the names of those whose anniversaries occur each month and sometimes those for whom special requests have been made. These names will, of course, re-appear the same time next year. Because of limited space, the anniversaries are for those who have died since 2010. 

Do you want to share our faith in everyday life here in the parish?

This autumn we have started a Proclaim! Group focusing on evangelisation. We are reading Sherry Weddell’s Forming Intentional Disciples together over six weeks and then we support each other to proclaim God’s Good News.  

Following the first presentation on Wednesday 25th September at St Thomas’ Brandon, it was thought that it would be good to share our prayers with the whole parish.  So a prayer pamphlet was enclosed in your newsletter on 29th Sep.

Please add these prayers to your own prayers at home. 

Pray for yourself; and for the group who are estabilishing the programme on Wednesdays; and for the whole parish: that we will have the desire and confidence to share the beauty of God’s love with others.  

Fr Luke writes:  Many thanks for all who have contributed to keeping a respectful silence before mass. This is a joyful practice and creates the appropriate atmosphere for the celebration. 

Please also respect others, who may be trying to pray before and after Mass, by keeping talking to a minimum in and around the main body of the Church. (This does not apply so much to Mildenhall after Mass as we have a Blessed Sacrament chapel for people to pray in whilst teas and coffee continue at the back of the Church.) Silent and prayerful preparation is something that Pope Francis asks us to take seriously.

The Pope says: “Mass is the highest form of prayer and not an appropriate moment for small talk. At church, Catholics should spend their time in silence before Mass, preparing to meet with Jesus instead of engaging in "chitchat,”. Silence is so important…we are not going to a show. Silence prepares us and accompanies us." –           

                                                General audience Nov 15th 2017 

       IF SILENCE IS GOLDEN, PLEASE GIVE JESUS A LITTLE OF YOUR GOLD 

A superb free App from the British Jesuits. Lots on the App including a daily 10-12 min prayer meditation, as well as Stations of the Cross, Rosary meditations and other prayer resources. If you have a smart phone download the App, it could help develop your prayer life and your friendship with Jesus. Why not try it out for Holy Week? Having a big sale, on-site celebrity, or other event? Be sure to announce it so everybody knows and gets excited about it.

Are you leaving school or university soon, in between jobs or would like to do something 'different'? The Diocesan Youth Service is looking for people age 18-30 to join the Ignite Team, sharing the Gospel Message with young people in a way they can relate to. These are full-time positions, with food, accommodation and a monthly allowance provided. Ideal as a ‘gap year’. For more information see www.rcdea.org.uk/youth .

CPW offers a chance to enrich and develop your faith, as well as warmly welcoming people from other faith traditions who are in sympathy with the catholic tradition. Events range from 1-day meetings to 7-day holidays, from retreats to conferences to walking holidays. They vary from activities for whole families (in school holidays) to 18+ events: and they are affordable holidays in comfortable accommodation. A limited number of leaflets are available. For details talk to Gill or Tom Caple. 

“Discover Lectio Divina with Fr Bernard Murphy CFR and be enriched by this ancient Scriptural practice.

“Join Fr Bernard in this ancient Scriptural practice as he guides you through each stage of Lectio Divina: Reading (Lectio), Meditation (Meditatio), Prayer (Oratio), Contemplation (Contemplatio), Action (Actio), and Communal Sharing (Collatio).

“Engage in a transformative journey of Scripture and prayer with this world-renowned Franciscan friar, spiritual director and retreat giver. Drawing on Fr Bernard’s rich understanding and experience, he shows how each step of Lectio Divina plays a profound role in the way we connect with God’s Word….

“Embark on this sacred adventure of prayer and spiritual growth by practising Lectio Divina….”

See the video on The God Who Speakswebsite at the link provided below and find additional related resources. 

The Bible and Catholics, The God Who Speaks, 29 June 2023. See the full article at https://www.godwhospeaks.uk/lectio-divina-with-fr-bernard-murphy-cfr/  

Time set aside for Lectio Divina enables us to discover in our daily life an underlying spiritual rhythm. We discover an increasing ability to offer more of ourselves and our relationships to the Father, and to accept the embrace that God offers us in the person of his son, Jesus Christ. We can attend "with the ear of our hearts", listening for God's presence in our lives. 

• Choose a text of the Scriptures that you wish to pray. This could be a reading for that day’s mass, or a particular book from the New Testament. The amount of text covered is in God's hands, not yours. 

• Place yourself in a comfortable position and allow yourself to become silent. This could be a few moments focused on your breathing, or a favourite prayer. Use whatever method is best for you and allow yourself to enjoy silence for a few moments. 

• Turn to the text and read it slowly, gently. Savour each portion of the reading, constantly listening for the "still, small voice" of a word or phrase that somehow says, "I am for you today." In Lectio Divina, God is teaching us to listen to him, to seek him in silence. 

• Take the word or phrase into yourself. Slowly repeat it to yourself, allowing it to interact with your inner world of concerns, memories, and ideas. Memories or thoughts are simply parts of yourself that, when they rise up during Lectio Divina, are asking to be given to God along with the rest of your inner self. 

• Speak to God. Whether you use words, ideas, or images--or all three--is not important. Interact with God as you would with one you know loves and accepts you. Give to God what you have found within your heart. Experience God by using the word or phrase he has given you as a means of blessing and of transforming the ideas and memories that your reflection on his word has awakened. 

• Rest in God's embrace. And when he invites you to return to your contemplation of his word or to your inner dialogue with him, do so. Learn to use words when words are helpful, and to let go when they no longer are necessary. Rejoice in the knowledge that God is with you in both words and silence. 

 Many prayer groups find it a useful approach to collective study and prayer. 

This form of Lectio Divina works best in a group of between four and eight people. A group leader coordinates the process and facilitates sharing. The same text from the Scriptures is read out three times, followed each time by a period of silence and an opportunity for each member of the group to share the fruit of her or his Lectio. 

• The first reading is for the purpose of hearing a word or passage that touches the heart. When the word or phrase is found, the group's members take it in, gently recite it, and reflect on it during the silence that follows. After the silence, each person shares which word or phrase has touched his or her heart. 

• The second reading (by a member of the opposite sex from the first reader) is for the purpose of "hearing" or "seeing" Christ in the text. Each ponders the word that has touched the heart and asks where the word or phrase touches his or her life that day. Then, after the silence, each member of the group shares what he or she has "heard" or "seen." 

• The third and final reading is for the purpose of experiencing Christ "calling us forth" into doing or being. Members ask themselves what Christ in the text is calling them to do or to become today or this week. After the silence, each shares for the last time, and the exercise concludes with each person praying for the person on the right of him or her. 

Those who regularly practice this method of praying and sharing the Scriptures find it to be an excellent way of developing trust within a group. It also is an excellent way of consecrating projects and hopes to Christ before more-formal group meetings. 

 Based on “How to Practice Lectio Divina” Rev. Luke Dysinger OSB www.beliefnet.com