THE MOST HOLY TRINITY

26^th MAY 2024

Sat 25 May			St Bede the Venerable, P. D. Mem
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		The Lally, McDermott & Flynn Families
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Meryl Wernham RIP
Sun 26 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Michael Krawiec RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Patricia Baker RIP
Mon 27 May			St Augustine of Canterbury
St. Theresa’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Brenda Garner RIP
Tue 28 May
St. Theresa’s			Special Intentions
St. Columba’s			Mary Teresa Hinde RIP
Wed 29 May
St. Theresa’s			Private Intentions
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		Bernard Wilkinson RIP
Thu 30 May
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Fri 31 May			The Visitation of the B.V.M.
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Barney Sculley RIP
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Sat 1 Jun
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Seamus O’Donnell RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Bill Baker RIP
Sun 2 Jun			The Body and Blood of Christ
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Patrick Joseph Casey RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Vincent Corcoran RIP

Please note if there is no time next to Mass it means there is no Mass for parishioners to attend that day, but the Priests will say Mass privately.

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS:
Mass will be streamed from St Columba’s at 11.000am this Sunday 26^th May 2024.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

BISHOP’S VISITATION:
The Bishop will visit St Columba’s on Sunday 26^th May, and St Theresa’s on Sunday 14^th July.

POPE’S PRAYER INTENTIONS – For May:
for the formation of men and women religious, and seminarians – Let us pray that men and women religious, and seminarians, grow in their own vocational journey through human, pastoral, spiritual and community formation, that leads them to be credible witnesses of the Gospel.

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers, Bill Baker and Dr Bhaskara Rajan who died recently, May the Lord console their families and friends. Bill’s Requiem Mass will take place at 11.00a.m. on Tuesday 4^th June at St Columba’s Church.

ANNIVERSARIES:
Brenda Garner, Francis William Byrne, Patrick Joseph Casey

CONFESSIONS:
There will be Confessions after each weekday Mass until 11.30a.m.
St Columba’s: From 6p.m. before the 6.30p.m. Saturday evening Mass.
St Theresa’s: From 4.30p.m. before 5p.m. Saturday evening Mass.

WEDDINGS, BAPTISMS AND FUNERALS:
Please contact one of the Parish Offices to make your arrangements. 

PARISH OFFERTORY:
Loose Plate £169.14 Planned Giving £76.50; Average weekly SO £735.00
Many thanks for your generous support.

ST THERESA’S CHURCH ACCOUNTS:
A copy of the 2023/2024 accounts is on the noticeboard at the back of church.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA:
The coffee rota is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. Please enter your name and good cause against your preferred dates. You could make £30-£50 for your chosen cause.
26^th May – Bishop Marks Visit – sandwiches
2^nd June – volunteers please
9^th June – St Columba’s Barbecue  
Thank you for your continued support.

CORPUS CHRISTI:
On Sunday 2^nd June, in celebration of the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, we invite you back into church at 12.30p.m. (following 11a.m. Mass and tea and coffee) for a short period of adoration before the Blessed Sacrament and a Eucharistic Procession around the grounds of St Columba’s church.  All are welcome, and we would love for the children of the parish, especially those who have recently made their First Holy Communion, to be part of this time of prayer and celebration.

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

• The residents of Plas Newton Lane, Wealstone Court, Surrey Road, Maitland Way, Canberra Way, Roebourne Rise and Melbourne Road.
• The Deanery Synod Representatives.
• All our joint services in our Churches, Schools and in the Cathedral.

PARISH ADMINISTRATOR, ST. COLUMBA’S CHURCH:
After years of devoted service, Carol Galvin is retiring from the post of parish secretary and Sue Carr is retiring from the voluntary post of hall manager. We are seeking to replace both posts by the appointment of a parish administrator. The administrator will be responsible for a range of organisational and management tasks that help ensure the smooth day to day running of St Columba’s church and hall for the benefit of the parishioners and the local community and will be based in a modern, well equipped office at the rear of the church.

This will be a permanent, part time post of 25 hours per week. Job share would be considered.

Applications for the post are welcome from parishioners and from the wider Chester community. Further details of responsibilities, salary etc can be obtained from the church office: 01244 624019; stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com

Parish Pastoral Council 

PASTORAL COUNCIL MEETING: 
This took place in St Theresa’s on 13th May. Reports from the various groups represented on the council had been received in advance and were briefly commented on. The reports can be viewed on the website. In particular there was an update on the work of the “Welcome to our Parish” group who are putting together a “Welcome Pack” for new parishioners. Other items discussed included the Bishop’s upcoming visit to St Columba’s, the arrangements for the appointment of a Parish Administrator at St Columba’s, the new joint initiative from CAFOD and the SVP on “Using our Catholic Voice in the General Election” (more of this soon) and how to mark the 60th Anniversary of St Columba’s church.

HIGHLIGHT FROM THE HIGH:
The CHS would like to acknowledge the FHC taking place in all our feeder Parishes by celebrating the “Holy Reunion Mass”.  The Mass will be on Wednesday 26^th June, 6:30pm at the Lyceum (6^th Form building at the CHS) followed by refreshments. The candidates are welcome to wear their Communion outfits or their school uniform. We look forward to celebrating with you all! RSVP: gasparinia@christofidelis.org.uk

CONTINUING SUPPORT FOR NEWBORN BABIES IN AFRICA:
This is a request for unwanted sewing patterns for young children’s clothing, please. As part of our ongoing support for children in East Africa, particularly Djibouti, we would like you to make a variety of clothing for them, to find out more and arrange a handover, please call Margaret on 01244 318424.

ST COLUMBA’S 60^TH ANNIVERSARY:
This will be in September. This is an opportunity to update the archives with events that have happened in the past 60 years.   If anyone has any pictures/newspaper items/memorabilia relating to the Parish during this time, it would be very helpful.   Items can either be handed in to Parish Office or left in Sacristy for my attention.  Please include your contact details. Thanks Sue Carr, Tel: 07553 114531.

PHOTOS FOR PARISH WEBSITE:
Over the next weeks and months, the parish website is being further developed to increase the interest and engagement of those looking to find out more about the parish. So that photographs of Parish events can be included, photographs will be taken by designated members of the parish, during events and masses. These will usually be general photos rather than shots of individuals. If anyone does not wish to be part of such a photo, please let the photographer know at the time. Thank you.  Lyn Coyle, Welcome to our Parish group.

STELLA MARIS – THANK YOU AND UPDATE WEBINAR:
Catholic maritime charity Stella Maris (formerly called Apostleship of the Sea) is very grateful for this parish’s prayer and financial support of its work on Sea Sunday last year.  To report back on the use of those funds, it invites parishioners to join an online update and thank you webinar on Tuesday 28th May from 7:30pm to 9:00pm. You will hear about the impact of your generosity on the lives of seafarers, fishers, and their families over the last year. Its CEO and chaplains will share inspiring stories of how they have helped seafarers and fishers through your support. To register for this virtual event, please visit www.stellamaris.org.uk/thankyou2024

DEACON’S BIRTHDAY BLESSING:
As promised earlier, an image of Pope Francis’ blessing, imparted on the occasion of my 80^th birthday is now posted on the parish website, for anyone interested to see; visit Gallery (sscolumbaandtheresa.co.uk). With renewed thanks. Lawrence.

ANNUAL BBQ:
The annual BBQ to celebrate the feast of St Columba will be held on Sunday 9^th June after 11 O’clock Mass at St Columba’s. Teas and coffees will be served from 11 O’clock in the Church Hall. Further information will be in future newsletter and posters.

THE WHITE FLOWER APPEAL on behalf of the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC) will take place in St Columba’s on 1^st/2^nd June and at St Theresa’s on 8^th/9^th June. Your prayers and generosity will be much appreciated.

BARN DANCE:
In St. Columba’s Hall on Saturday 1^st June, in aid of the Hospice of the Good Shepherd. For more information telephone 07861 049281 or see notice in porch

CHURCHES TOGETHER VACANCY:
There is a vacancy for a parish representative to Churches Together in Upton.  Full details really are posted on the Notice Boards at St Columba’s.

CONFIRMATION CATECHISTS
Thank you very much to the parishioners who have volunteered to prepare our young people for Confirmation. You are much appreciated. We still need one or two people to help prepare the adult Confirmation candidates. If you would like to be part of this team please speak to Denise Lusk, or Father William or email stcolumbatheresaconfirmation@hotmail.co.uk

HALF TERM ACTIVITIES: 
Free fun for families over half term at our libraries.  Crafts, rhyme time, board games.  Check out   https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/libraries/library-events

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK:
Remember there’s no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.  Scott Adams

TO ALL OUR STUDENTS taking exams over the following weeks/ months, we wish you all the very best. And remember what Stephen Hawking said “However difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do, and succeed at. It matters that you don’t just give up.”

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Carol Galvin, St. Columba’s Church Office, phone: 01244 624019, Email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com. Office hours Monday to Friday 8.30a.m. to 12.30p.m.
Hall availability can be checked by looking at St Columba’s Church website – section for Church Hall gives a calendar of events in the Hall. Then contact Sue Carr on 07553 114531 or email columbashallbookings@gmail.com to arrange booking.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER:
26^th May edition will be compiled by Harry Sweeney, phone: 01244 327462 or email: harrysweeney45@gmail.com. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that items are emailed or phoned to the compiler by 9.00A.M. on WEDNESDAY 29^TH MAY 2024

PENTECOST SUNDAY

Sat 18 May
St. Theresa’s	10.30am		First Holy Communion Mass
	5.00pm		Gladwen Nicholson RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		The Parish
Sun 19 May			Pentecost
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Mary Sherman RIP
Mon 20 May			Mary, Mother of the Church. Mem
St. Theresa’s	9.15am		First Holy Communion Celebration
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Priest’s Intentions
Tue 21 May			The Dedication of the Cathedral
St. Theresa’s			Special Intentions
St. Columba’s			Anne Rooney RIP
Wed 22 May
St. Theresa’s			Private Intentions
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		Henry Sweeney RIP
Thu 23 May			Our Lord Jesus Christ The Eternal High Priest
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s			Private Intentions
Fri 24 May			Our Lady Help of Christians
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Jessica Baker RIP
St. Columba’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
Sat 25 May			St Bede the Venerable, P. D. Mem
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		The Lally, McDermott & Flynn Families
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Meryl Wernham RIP
Sun 26 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Michael Krawiec RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Patricia Baker RIP

Please note if there is no time next to Mass it means there is no Mass for parishioners to attend that day but the Priests will say Mass privately.

POPE’S PRAYER INTENTIONS – For May:
for the formation of men and women religious, and seminarians – Let us pray that men and women religious, and seminarians, grow in their own vocational journey through human, pastoral, spiritual and community formation, that leads them to be credible witnesses of the Gospel.

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS:
Mass will be streamed from St Columba’s at 11.000am this Sunday 19^th May 2024.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

BISHOP’S VISITATION:
The Bishop will visit St Columba’s on Sunday 26^th May, and St Theresa’s on Sunday 14^th July.

CONFESSIONS:
There will be Confessions after each weekday Mass until 11.30a.m.
St Columba’s: From 6pm before the 6.30p.m. Saturday evening Mass.
St Theresa’s: From 4.30p.m. before 5p.m. Saturday evening Mass.

WEDDINGS, BAPTISMS AND FUNERALS:
Please contact one of the Parish Offices to make your arrangements. 

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers, Bill Baker who died recently, May the Lord console his family and friends. Bill’s requiem mass will take place at 11.00 a.m. on Tuesday 4^th June at St Columba’s Church.

ANNIVERSARIES:
Brenda Garner, Francis William Byrne.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONS:
The following children are making their First Holy Communion this weekend on Saturday 18^th May at St Theresa’s:
Jessy- Nicole Gouveia- Abrew,Henova Dcruz, Lily Dudics, Maja Stachowicz-Foulger, Elyse-Lucrezia Romeo, Osinachi Njoku, Chimdinma Njoku, Hannah Subin, Carmena Stanford

PARISH OFFERTORY:
Loose Plate £tbc Planned Giving £tbc; Average weekly SO £735.00;  Wednesday Badminton £200; Wednesday Tai Chi £30.
Many thanks for your generous support.

ST THERESA’S CHURCH ACCOUNTS:
A copy of the 2023/2024 accounts is on the noticeboard at the back of church.

CAFOD EMERGENCY APPEAL FOR SUDAN: 
The total amount collected came to £870.20. Thank you so much for your amazing generosity especially at such short notice.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA:
The coffee rota is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. Please enter your name and good cause against your preferred dates. You could make £30-£50 for your chosen cause.
19^th May – volunteers please (Pentecost)
26^th May – volunteers please
2^nd June – volunteers please

PENTECOST APPEAL FOR THE SPIRITANS: – THIS SUNDAY- 19^th MAY:
The Holy Ghost Fathers, Spiritans (the Religious Order of Frs.William and  Desmond) will be having a mission appeal in both churches in aid of their mission here in the UK and abroad, this weekend on Pentecost Sunday. Spiritan students: Caliel from Cameroon and Valentine from Nigeria will preach at the appeals. Parishioners are encouraged to contribute generously in support of the Spiritan missions. Your donations make a huge impact on the lives of your Christian brothers and sisters in need. For more information there are leaflets and envelopes available at the back of church.

CORPUS CHRISTI:
On Sunday June 2nd, in celebration of the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, we invite you back into church at 12.30pm (following 11am Mass and tea and coffee) for a short period of adoration before the Blessed Sacrament and a Eucharistic Procession around the grounds of St Columba’s church.  All are welcome and we would love for the children of the parish, especially those who have recently made their First Holy Communion, to be part of this time of prayer and celebration.

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

• the residents of Ormonde Road, Newton Hall Drive, Beechway, Upton Dene, Upton Grange, Wavertree Road, Western Avenue and Lloyd Place.
• For the staff and patients of the Hospice of the Good Shepherd and the local support groups.
• For those who are terminally ill and those who care for them.

PARISH ADMINISTRATOR, ST. COLUMBA’S CHURCH:After years of devoted service, Carol Galvin is retiring from the post of parish secretary and Sue Carr is retiring from the voluntary post of hall manager. We are seeking to replace both posts by the appointment of a parish administrator. The administrator will be responsible for a range of organisational and management tasks that help ensure the smooth day to day running of St Columba’s church and hall for the benefit of the parishioners and the local community and will be based in a modern, well equipped office at the rear of the church.This will be a permanent, part time post of 25 hours per week. Job share would be considered.Applications for the post are welcome from parishioners and from the wider Chester community. Further details of responsibilities, salary etc can be obtained from the church office : 01244 624019; stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.comParish Pastoral Council

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN UPTON VACANCY:
There is a vacancy for a parish representative to Churches Together in Upton.  Full details are posted on the Notice Board at St Columba’s.

SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION – INFORMATION MEETING:
The next Chester Parishes Sacrament of Confirmation will be on 8th November 2024. Preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation will be led by St. Columba and St. Theresa’s Confirmation team.

An information meeting will be held on Thursday 23rd May, at 7pm in St. Columbas church. If you wish to be Confirmed next November, register before the meeting using the email –stcolumbatheresaconfirmation@hotmail.co.uk stating your school year, or if you are over 18 and wish to join the adult preparation group. If you are not sure about being Confirmed then please come along to the meeting anyway to find out more. To be eligible to be Confirmed you must be at high school now, or older (no upper age limit). For more information please call Denise Lusk on 01244 379742.

CONFIRMATION CATECHISTS
Thank you very much to the parishioners who have volunteered to prepare our young people for Confirmation. You are much appreciated. We still need one or two people to help prepare the adult Confirmation candidates. If you would like to be part of this team please speak to Denise Lusk, or Father William or email stcolumbatheresaconfirmation@hotmail.co.uk

ALL GOD’S CREATURES GOT A PLACE IN THE CHOIR!:
The Little Choir would like to say a huge thank you to all who were able to support us at the recent coffee and cake sale. Your generosity raised £325, which is a wonderful total. The money raised will go towards purchasing music books, some small instruments and appropriate copyright licenses which will enable us to provide musical liturgy to our parish in an engaging and contemporary way. The children work very hard practicing the hymns for Mass and it is reassuring to know that their efforts are appreciated. If there any other children who would like to join the “Little Choir” please see Mark or Giovanna after Mass on any Sunday.

ST COLUMBA’S 60th ANNIVERSARY:
This will be in September.   This is an opportunity to update the archives with events that have happened in the past 60 years.   If anyone has any pictures/newspaper items/memorabilia relating to the Parish during this time, it would be very helpful.   Items can either be handed in to Parish Office or left in Sacristy for my attention.  Please include your contact details.   Thanks Sue Carr tel 07553 114531

PHOTOS FOR PARISH WEBSITE:
Over the next weeks and months, the parish website is being further developed to increase the interest and engagement of those looking to find out more about the parish. So that photographs of Parish events can be included, photographs will be taken by designated members of the parish, during events and masses. These will usually be general photos rather than shots of individuals. If anyone does not wish to be part of such a photo, please let the photographer know at the time. Thank you.  Lyn Coyle, Welcome to our Parish group

YOUTH GROUP – MONDAY 20TH MAY:
The next meeting of the Parish Youth Group is Monday 20th May 7:00-8:30pm in St Columba’s Hall. This month we will be making and eating pizzas and learning about May the month of Mary.  All young people from year 5 and upwards are welcome to join our friendly group. 🙂

NEEDLES AND PINS – WEDNESDAY 22^ND MAY:
Everyone is invited to this friendly and welcoming needlecraft group in the Newman Room, between 2:00-4:00pm every fourth Wednesday of the month. Hope to see you.

THE WHITE FLOWER APPEAL on behalf of the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC) will take place in St Theresa’s on 1^st/2^nd June June and at St Columba’s on 8^th/9^th June.  Your prayers and generosity will be much appreciated.

BARN DANCE:
In St. Columba’s Hall on Saturday 1^st June, in aid of the Hospice of the Good Shepherd. For more information telephone 07861 049281  or see notice in porch

Thought for the week: Good friends are like stars. You don’t always see them, but you know they’re always there. Source, unknown. 

To all our students taking exams over the following weeks/ months, we wish you all the very best. And remember what Stephen Hawking said “However difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do, and succeed at. It matters that you don’t just give up.”

CONTINUING SUPPORT FOR NEWBORN BABIES IN EAST AFRICA
This is a request for unwanted sewing patterns for young children’s clothing, please. As part of our ongoing support for children in East Africa, particularly Djibouti, we would like you to make a variety of clothing for them, to find out more and arrange a handover, please call Margaret on 01244 318424.

SHREWSBURY MASS FOR MISSIO- 1^st JUNE 2024
This will take palce on Saturday 1^st June at 11am at St Michael & All Angels Church, Birkenhead CH49 5LE.  Please RSVP by the 24^th May. E mail redbox@missio.org.uk or telephone 07593 544625

DIOCESAN MARRIAGE MASS:
The Annual Diocesan Marriage Mass will take place here at St Columba’s Church on Saturday 8^th June 2024.  If you have a special anniversary this year, please get in touch with the Diocese of Shrewsbury, Curial Offices, 2 Park Road South, Prenton, CH43 4UX or telephone 0151-652-9855.  Many thanks.

RED BOXES (St Theresa’s):
The boxes are available at the back of Church for you to collect. Thank you for your donations.

SVP THEATRE NIGHT- The Importance of Being Earnest:
The SVP will be holding their annual theatre night at the Gladstone theatre, Port Sunlight on Tuesday June 4th at 7.30. Tickets £12 available from Sue McCarthy or any SVP member.07515 491251. All proceeds go to the SVP holiday home.

DAY OF PRAYER & FASTING:
On Tuesday 21^st May, the Vigil of St Rita, please pray and fast for the end of abortion in this Country. Through God’s grace we have seen thousands of Mothers in our counselling centre continue their pregnancies in very difficult circumstances. Please help us to help save lives with your prayers, fasting and support. www.GoodCounselNetwork.com

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Carol Galvin, St. Columba’s Church Office, phone: 01244 624019, Email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com. Office hours Monday to Friday 8.30a.m. to 12.30p.m.
Hall availability can be checked by looking at St Columba’s Church website – section for Church Hall gives a calendar of events in the Hall. Then contact Sue Carr on 07553 114531 or email columbashallbookings@gmail.com to arrange booking.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER: 26th May edition will be compiled by Rebecca Vaughan, phone: 01244 318632 or email: Rebecca_vghn@yahoo.co.uk. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that items are emailed or phoned to the compiler by 9.00A.M. on WEDNESDAY 22nd  MAY 2024

SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

12^th MAY 2024

Sat 11 May
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Fr Prin’s Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Anthony Wall RIP
Sun 12 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Thanksgiving Mass
Mon 13 May
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Private Intention (AE)
Tue 14 May			St Matthias, Ap
St. Theresa’s			Special Intentions
St. Columba’s			Joan Burton RIP
Wed 15 May
St. Theresa’s			Joan Burton RIP
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
Thu 16 May
St. Theresa’s			Special Intentions
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Fri 17 May
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Chris Steele RIP
St. Columba’s			Gerald O’Hanlon RIP
Sat 18 May
St. Theresa’s	10.30am		First Holy Communion Mass
	5.00pm		Gladwen Nicholson RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		The Parish
Sun 19 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Mary Sherman RIP

Please note if there is no time next to Mass it means there is no Mass for parishioners to attend that day but the Priests will say Mass privately.

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS:
Mass will be streamed from St Theresa’s at 9.30am this Sunday 12^th May 2024.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

POPE’S PRAYER INTENTIONS – For May:
for the formation of men and women religious, and seminarians – Let us pray that men and women religious, and seminarians, grow in their own vocational journey through human, pastoral, spiritual and community formation, that leads them to be credible witnesses of the Gospel.

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers, Bill Baker who died recently, May the Lord console his family and friends. 

ANNIVERSARIES:
Mary Suzanne Roberts, Denzel Gordon & George O’Hanlon.

CONFESSIONS:
There will be Confessions after each weekday Mass until 11.30a.m.
St Columba’s: From 6pm before the 6.30p.m. Saturday evening Mass.
St Theresa’s: From 4.30p.m. before 5p.m. Saturday evening Mass.

WEDDINGS, BAPTISMS AND FUNERALS:
Please contact one of the Parish Offices to make your arrangements. 

PARISH OFFERTORY:
Loose Plate £518.00 Planned Giving £241.25; Average weekly SO £735.00;  Candles £22.41;
Many thanks for your generous support.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA:
The coffee rota is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. Please enter your name and good cause against your preferred dates. You could make £30-£50 for your chosen cause.
12th May – volunteers please
19th May – volunteers please (Pentecost)
26th May – volunteers please

CHESTER HALF MARATHON – SUNDAY 19^th MAY:
NEXT SUNDAY various roads around Blacon will be closed until lunch time.  Please check the route to see if it will affect your journey to the 9.30am Mass at St Theresa’s.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONS – St Columba’s:
Today we have our second family celebrations of First Holy Communions, so the central pews will be reserved for the children and their families. We welcome you all and pray for and congratulate these children. Anya Curtis, Sean Flood, Adam Grabowski, Lucas McGoldrick, Oskar Modras, Hannah Roberts and James Wood.

PENTECOST APPEAL FOR THE SPIRITANS: – NEXT SUNDAY- 19^th MAY:
The Holy Ghost Fathers, Spiritans (the Religious Order of Frs.William and  Desmond) will be having a mission appeal in both churches in aid of their mission here in the UK and abroad, on Pentecost Sunday.-19^th May. Spiritan students: Caliel from Cameroon and Valentine from Nigeria will preach at the appeals. Parishioners are encouraged to contribute generously in support of the Spiritan missions. Your donations make a huge impact on the lives of your Christian brothers and sisters in need. For more information there are leaflets and envelopes available at the back of church.

BISHOPS VISITATION:
The Bishop will visit St Columba’s on Sunday 26^th May2024  and St Theresa’s on Sunday 14^th July 2024.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK:
What you do every day matters more than what you do every once in a while. (Unknown)

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

• Newry Park, Grange Road, Eversley Park, Bowyer’s Close, Ashfield Crescent, Glenside Close & Longdale Drive.
• Vocations to the ministry, Foundations for Ministry and those in current training.
• All lay people in the varied ministries in our Churches.

PARISH ADMINISTRATOR, ST. COLUMBA’S CHURCH: After years of devoted service, Carol Galvin is retiring from the post of parish secretary and Sue Carr is retiring from the voluntary post of hall manager. We are seeking to replace both posts by the appointment of a parish administrator. The administrator will be responsible for a range of organisational and management tasks that help ensure the smooth day to day running of St Columba’s church and hall for the benefit of the parishioners and the local community and will be based in a modern, well equipped office at the rear of the church. This will be a permanent, part time post of 25 hours per week. Job share would be considered.Applications for the post are welcome from parishioners and from the wider Chester community. Further details of responsibilities, salary etc can be obtained from the church office : 01244 624019; stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com Parish Pastoral Council

SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION – INFORMATION MEETING:
The next Chester Parishes Sacrament of Confirmation will be on 8th November 2024. Preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation will be led by St. Columba and St. Theresa’s Confirmation team.

An information meeting will be held on Thursday 23rd May, at 7pm in St. Columbas church. If you wish to be Confirmed next November register, before the meeting using the email –stcolumbatheresaconfirmation@hotmail.co.uk stating your school year, or if you are over 18 and wish to join the adult preparation group. If you are not sure about being Confirmed then please come along to the meeting anyway to find out more. To to be eligible to be Confirmed you must be at high school now, or older (no upper age limit). For more information please call Denise Lusk on 01244 379742.

CONFIRMATION CATECHISTS
Thank you very much to the parishioners who have volunteered to prepare our young people for Confirmation. You are much appreciated. We still need one or two people to help prepare the adult Confirmation candidates. If you would like to be part of this team please speak to Denise Lusk, or Father William or email stcolumbatheresaconfirmation@hotmail.co.uk

A DAY FOR CONFIRMATION CATECHISTS:
You are invited to a day with the Dominican Sisters of St Joseph and Bishop Mark Davies, on May 18th, 10am-4pm at St Mary’s Parish. Centre, 65 Delamere St, Crewe, CW1 2JX. To find out more contact Natalie Orefice on 07730 526826 or natalie.orefice@dioceseofshrewbury.org or sign up here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-day-for-catechists-in-the-diocese-of-shrewsbury-tickets-851383700567

RIGHT TO LIFE (UK): Ask your MP to support the abortion time limit reduction amendment:
Support an amendment to reduce our abortion time limit from 24 weeks to 22 weeks. Take action: Collect a postcard today from the back of the church and post it to your MP urgently in support of this amendment!  Our MP is Samantha Dixon.

MARCH FOR LIFE:
March for Life vigil outside Westminster Cathedral on Saturday 27th April, the 56th anniversary of the Abortion Act coming into force, here is Clare’s short speech from it; https://x.com/March4LifeUK/status/1785234052712112300?t=gQuTGnTb9UGrq5SL277h_A&s=08

DAY OF PRAYER & FASTING:
On Tuesday 21^st May, the Vigil of St Rita, please pray and fast for the end of abortion in this Country. Through God’s grace we have seen thousands of Mothers in our counselling centre continue their pregnancies in very difficult circumstances. Please help us to help save lives with your prayers, fasting and support. www.GoodCounselNetwork.com

PARISH PASTORAL MEETING:
The next meeting is on Monday 13th May in St Theresa’s Centre at 7.00 pm. 2 members of the council resigned in March and we thank them for their commitment and contributions over many years. If you would like to become a member of the Council (and you would be made very welcome) please speak to Pauline Rourke or Ann McCarthy.

ZUMBATHON – 18^th May:
There  will be another Zumbathon for the HOME OF PEACE & CHRIST’S HEART CHILDREN ORPHANAGES in Uganda, from 11am-1pm in St Columba’s Hall. This Zumbathon is to able to keep the children at school for another term. It helps us to pay school fees and feed the children in the two Orphanages I support and I am a trustee. Tickets are: Adults £10 & Children 6+ £5.  Will have a Raffle and Dance to MAKE A DIFFERENCE!! Lina Greig

CONTINUING SUPPORT FOR NEWBORN BABIES IN EAST AFRICA:
This is a request for unwanted sewing patterns for young children’s clothing, please. As part of our ongoing support for children in East Africa, particularly Djibouti, we would like you to make a variety of clothing for them, to find out more and arrange a handover, please call Margaret on 01244 318424.

TOMATO PLANTS – St Columba’s:
Alicante, Gardener’s Delight,  Moneymaker and Tumbling Tom varieties of tomato plants will be on sale in the hall after the 11.00am Mass today at 30p each or ring Pauline Payne on 01244 350323 to order. All proceeds to our parish Third World project, the OAKS school in Bo, Sierra Leone.

RED BOXES (St Theresa’s):
The boxes are available at the back of Church for you to collect. Thank you for your donations.

HIGHLIGHT FROM THE HIGH: We have a number of teaching roles and support staff vacancies for cleaners, caretakers, office admin staff and exams officers. If you are interested or know someone who is, please look at the school website  Vacancies – The Chester Catholic High School (christofidelis.org.uk) for more details.

DIOCESAN MARRIAGE MASS:
The Annual Diocesan Marriage Mass will take place here at St Columba’s Church on Saturday 8^th June 2024.  If you have a special anniversary this year, please get in touch with the Diocese of Shrewsbury, Curial Offices, 2 Park Road South, Prenton, CH43 4UX or telephone 0151-652-9855.  Many thanks.

SVP THEATRE NIGHT- The Importance of Being Earnest:
The SVP will be holding their annual theatre night at the Gladstone theatre, Port Sunlight on Tuesday June 4th at 7.30. Tickets £12 available from Sue McCarthy or any SVP member.07515 491251. All proceeds go to the SVP holiday home.

SHREWSBURY MASS FOR MISSIO – 1^st JUNE 2024
This will take palce on Saturday 1^st June at 11am at St Michael & All Angels Church, Birkenhead CH49 5LE.  Please RSVP by the 24^th May. E mail redbox@missio.org.uk or telephone 07593 544625

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Carol Galvin, St. Columba’s Church Office, phone: 01244 624019, email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com. Office hours Monday to Friday 8.30a.m. to 12.30p.m.

Hall availability can be checked by looking at St Columba’s Church website – section for Church Hall gives a calendar of events in the Hall. Then contact Sue Carr on 07553 114531 or email columbashallbookings@gmail.com to arrange booking.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER: 18th May edition will be compiled by Muriel Green, phone: 01244 383836 or email: muriel.green1@btinternet.com. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that items are emailed or phoned to the compiler by 9.00A.M. on WEDNESDAY 15th  MAY 2024.

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

5 MAY 2024

Sat 4 May			The English Martyrs
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Margaret Turnbull’s Ints
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		The Parish
Sun 5 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Special Intentions
Mon 6 May
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Priests’ Intentions
Tue 7 May
St. Theresa’s			Special Intentions
St. Columba’s			Private Intentions
Wed 8 May
St. Theresa’s			Private Intentions
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		James & Ann Traynor RIP
Thu 9 May			The Ascension of the Lord – Holyday of Obligation
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Anthony Baker RIP
St. Columba’s	7.00pm		John Ray Green
Fri 10 May
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Sarah Russell RIP
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Sat 11 May
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Fr Prin’s Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Anthony Wall RIP
Sun 12 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Thanksgiving Mass

Please note if there is no time next to Mass it means there is no Mass for parishioners to attend that day but the Priests will say Mass privately.

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS:
Mass will be streamed from St Columba’s at 6.30p.m. this Saturday 4^th May 2024
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD – 9^th MAY:
The Ascension is a Holyday of Obligation and Mass will be at St Theresa’s at 10am and at St Columba’s at 7pm.

POPE’S PRAYER INTENTIONS – For May
for the formation of men and women religious, and seminarians – Let us pray that men and women religious, and seminarians, grow in their own vocational journey through human, pastoral, spiritual and community formation, that leads them to be credible witnesses of the Gospel

ANNIVERSARIES:
John Bond, Michael Thornber, Carol Anne Murray, Brian Peter Kelly, Michael Patrick Murray, Thomas William Groom, Mary Lally.

CONFESSIONS:
There will be Confessions after each weekday Mass until 11.30a.m.
St Columba’s: From 6pm before the 6.30p.m. Saturday evening Mass.
St Theresa’s: From 4.30p.m. before 5p.m. Saturday evening Mass.

WEDDINGS, BAPTISMS AND FUNERALS:
Please contact one of the Parish Offices to make your arrangements. 

PARISH OFFERTORY:
Loose Plate  £604; Planned Giving £263.80; Average weekly SO £735.00;  Candles £30.30;
Many thanks for your generous support.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
The coffee rota is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. Please enter your name and good cause against your preferred dates. You could make £30-£50 for your chosen cause.
5th May – Giovanne for Little Choir, music books
12th May – volunteers please 
19th May – Pentecost 

BISHOPS VISITATION
The Bishop will visit St Columba’s on Sunday 26^th May2024  and St Theresa’s on Sunday 14^th July 2024

CHESTER HALF MARATHON – SUNDAY 19^th MAY
Various roads around Blacon will be closed until lunch time.  Please check the route to see if it will affect you coming to the 9.30am Mass at St Theresa’s on that day.

ST COLUMBA’S LITTLE CHOIR 
Today, Sunday 5th May there will be coffee and cake after Mass at St Columba’s to raise funds to support the the Little Choir. The Little Choir leads the musical liturgy every 1st Sunday of the month but we do need new music books and other items so your support would be greatly appreciated.

DIOCESAN MARRIAGE MASS:
The Annual Diocesan Marriage Mass will take place here at St Columba’s Church on Saturday 8^th June 2024.  If you have a special anniversary this year, please get in touch with the Diocese of Shrewsbury, Curial Offices, 2 Park Road South, Prenton, CH43 4UX or telephone 0151-652-9855.  Many thanks.

PENTECOST APPEAL FOR THE SPIRITANS:
19^th MAY
The Holy Ghost Fathers, Spiritans (the Religious Order of Frs.William and  Desmond) will be having a mission appeal in both churches in aid of their mission here in the UK and abroad, on Pentecost Sunday.-19^th May. Spiritan students: Caliel from Cameroon and Valentine from Nigeria will preachthe appeals. Parishioners are encouraged to contribute generously insupport of the Spiritan missions. Your donations make a lot of positiveimpact on the lives of your Christian brothers and sisters in need. For more information there are leaflets and envelopes available at the back of church.

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

• the residents of Churchward Close, The Wien, Mickle Trafford, Woodside Road, Oakfield Road & Foxcote Close.
• the hospitals in this area: the Countess & Wirral Cheshire Trust.
• For doctors and nurses and all who work in the NHS.
• For the patients and those who are addicted to drugs or alcohol, or who are mentally ill.  Also for those we know at this time who are ill.
• We pray for all those involved in the Countess of Chester Hospital’s Chaplaincy.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONS – St Columba’s
Today we have our first family celebrations of First Holy Communions so the central pews will be reserved for the children and their families. We welcome you all and pray for and congratulate these children. Brielle Juma. Noella Juma, Ella Nancollas, Adam Papp, Jeanelle Rivera, Alphonsa Roy and Aron Roy.

SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION – INFORMATION MEETING:
The next Chester Parishes Sacrament of Confirmation will be on 8th November 2024. Preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation will be led by St. Columba and St. Theresa’s Confirmation team.

An information meeting will be held on Thursday 23rd May, at 7pm in St. Columbas church. If you wish to be Confirmed next November please email stcolumbatheresaconfirmation@hotmail.co.uk to register, before the meeting, stating your school year, or if you are over 18 and wish to join the adult preparation group. If you are not sure about being Confirmed then please come along to the meeting anyway to find out more. To to be eligible to be Confirmed you must be at high school now, or older (no upper age limit). For more information please call Denise Lusk on 01244 379742.

CONFIRMATION CATECHISTS
If you are already Confirmed, would you like to join our team who prepares our young parishioners to be Confirmed? It is a rewarding and enjoyable thing to do. For more information, or to volunteer, please call Denise Lusk on 01244 379742 or email stcolumbatheresaconfirmation@hotmail.co.uk

THOUGH FOR THE WEEK: “Don’t let your age control your life. Let your life control your age.”
― Anthony Douglas Williams

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN UPTON:
The Annual Coach Outing will be held on Wednesday 29^th May and will be to the church of Our Lady and St. Nicholas in Liverpool.See the Notice Boards for more details.

RIGHT TO LIFE (UK): Ask your MP to support the abortion time limit reduction amendment
Support an amendment to reduce our abortion time limit from 24 weeks to 22 weeks. Research indicates that a significant number of babies born at 22 or 23 weeks can now survive outside the womb, leaving a contradiction in our abortion law. Take action: Collect a postcard today from the back of the church and post it to your MP urgently in support of this amendment!  Our MP is Samantha Dixon.

ZUMBATHON – 18^th May
There  will be another Zumbathon for the HOME OF PEACE & CHRIST’S HEART CHILDREN ORPHANAGES in Uganda, from 11am-1pm in St Columba’s Hall. This Zumbathon is to able to keep the children at school for another term. It helps us to pay school fees and feed the children in the two Orphanages I support and I am a trustee. Tickets are: Adults £10 & Children 6+ £5.  Will have a Raffle and Dance to MAKE A DIFFERENCE!! Lina Greig

CONTINUING SUPPORT FOR NEWBORN BABIES IN EAST AFRICA
A request for unwanted sewing patterns for young children’s clothing, please. As part of our ongoing support for  children in French Soailand.we would like to make a variety of clothing for them, please arrange a handover with Margaret on 01244 318424.

TOMATO PLANTS – St Columba’s
Alicante, Gardener’s Delight,  Moneymaker and Tumbling Tom varieties of tomato plants will be on sale in the hall after the 11.00am Mass next week at 30p each or ring Pauline Payne on 01244 350323 to order. All proceeds to our parish Third World project, the OAKS school in Bo, Sierra Leone.

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Carol Galvin, St. Columba’s Church Office, phone: 01244 624019, email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com. Office hours Monday to Friday 8.30a.m. to 12.30p.m.
Hall availability can be checked by looking at St Columba’s Church website – section for Church Hall gives a calendar of events in the Hall. Then contact Sue Carr on 07553 114531 or email columbashallbookings@gmail.com to arrange booking.

RED BOXES (St Theresa’s):
The boxes are available at the back of Church for you to collect. Thank you for your donations.

CAFOD – CALL FOR A CEASEFIRE IN THE HOLY LAND:
Thousands of people have been killed across Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory as the region witnesses the deadliest days in recent history. CAFOD unequivocally condemns this shocking killing and kidnapping of civilians. But we know more violence is never the answer.

The scale of the Israeli government’s violent retaliation is causing more civilian deaths and injuries. The decision to withhold food, water and fuel from reaching the two million inhabitants of Gaza – half of whom are children – will inevitably lead to a humanitarian catastrophe. Will you email the Foreign Secretary to urge the UK to play its part in upholding international law, ensuring humanitarian aid can reach people in need, and works with other world leaders to secure a lasting peace for the region? Go to cafod.org.uk for more details of what to email. In addition we could all consider doing what we can personally to make our views known to those in authority, our MPs for instance. Copies of a CAFOD’s prayer for peace in Israel and Gaza are available in the church porches.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER: 5 May edition will be compiled by Alison Wrigglesworth, phone: 07708 304246 or email: a.wrigglesworth@outlook.com. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that items are emailed or phoned to thecompiler by 9.00A.M. on WEDNESDAY, 8^th  MAY 2024.

EASTER WEEK FIVE

28TH APRIL 2024

Sat 27 Apr
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Tom Groom RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		John Black
Sun 28 Apr
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Brian Kelly RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Stuart Worrall Anniversary
Mon 29 Apr			St Catherine of Siena, V, D
St. Theresa’s	1.30pm		Funeral Service Cecilia Relish
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Chris Steele RIP
Tue 30 Apr
St. Theresa’s			Special Intention
St. Columba’s			James Connolly RIP
Wed 1 May
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intention
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		Frank Stone Jnr
Thu 2 May			St Athanasius, B, D
St. Theresa’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s			Thomas Hanratty RIP
Fri 3 May			Ss Philip & James, Ap.
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Mary & Frank Lally RIP
St. Columba’s			Private Intentions
Sat 4 May			The English Martyrs
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Margaret Turnbull’s Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		The Parish
Sun 5 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Special Intentions

Please note if there is no time next to Mass it means there is no Mass for parishioners to attend that day but the Priests will say Mass privately.

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS:
Mass will be streamed from St Columba’s at 11a.m. this Sunday 28^th April  2024
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

POPE’S PRAYER INTENTIONS – For April -for the role of women – Let us pray that the dignity and worth of women be recognized in every culture, and for an end to the discrimination they face in various parts of the world.

ANNIVERSARIES:
John Bond, Michael Thornber, Carol Anne Murray, Brian Peter Kelly, Michael Patrick Murray, Thomas William Groom, Mary Lally.

CONFESSIONS:
There will be Confessions after each weekday Mass until 11.30a.m.
St Columba’s: From 6pm before the 6.30p.m. Saturday evening Mass.
St Theresa’s: From 4.30p.m. before 5p.m. Saturday evening Mass.

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers Cecilia Relish of Warwick Rd, who died recently.  May the Lord console her family and friends.  Cecilia Relish’s funeral is on Monday 29^th April at 11am at St Theresa’s.

WEDDINGS, BAPTISMS AND FUNERALS:
Please contact one of the Parish Offices to make your arrangements. 

OFFERTORY:
Loose Plate  £738.17; Planned Giving £418.40; Average weekly SO £735.00;  Candles £30.30;
Many thanks for your generous support.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA:
The coffee rota is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. Please enter your name and good cause against your preferred dates. You could make £30-£50 for your chosen cause.
28th April – volunteers please
5th May – Giovanne for Little Choir, music books
12th May – volunteers please 

St Columba’s Little Choir 
Sunday 5th May there will be coffee and cake after Mass at St Columba’s to raise funds to support the the Little Choir. The Little Choir leads the musical liturgy every 1st Sunday of the month but we do need new music books and other items so your support would be greatly appreciated.

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

• the residents of Arley Close, Lincoln Drive, Grasmere Road, Imperial Avenue, Embassy Close, Bristol Close and Virginia Drive.
• the elderly and housebound.
• all who prepare the food and for those who come and enjoy the fellowship enjoyed at church meals

DIOCESAN MARRIAGE MASS:
The Annual Diocesan Marriage Mass will take place here at St Columba’s Church on Saturday 8^th June 2024.  If you have a special anniversary this year, please get in touch with the Diocese of Shrewsbury, Curial Offices, 2 Park Road South, Prenton, CH43 4UX or telephone 0151-652-9855.  Many thanks.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONS – St Columba’s
On Sunday 5th May and Sunday 12th May at the 11.00a.m. Mass, children from the parish will be making their First Holy Communions. The central benches in church will be reserved for the children and their families on these occasions.

SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION – INFORMATION MEETING:
The next Chester Parishes Sacrament of Confirmation will be on 8th November 2024. Preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation will be led by St. Columba and St. Theresa’s Confirmation team.

An information meeting will be held on Thursday 23rd May, at 7pm in St. Columbas church. If you wish to be Confirmed next November please email stcolumbatheresaconfirmation@hotmail.co.uk to register, before the meeting, stating your school year, or if you are over 18 and wish to join the adult preparation group. If you are not sure about being Confirmed then please come along to the meeting anyway to find out more. To to be eligible to be Confirmed you must be at high school now, or older (no upper age limit). For more information please call Denise Lusk on 01244 379742.

CONFIRMATION CATECHISTS
If you are already Confirmed, would you like to join our team who prepares our young parishioners to be Confirmed? It is a rewarding and enjoyable thing to do. For more information, or to volunteer, please call Denise Lusk on 01244 379742 or email stcolumbatheresaconfirmation@hotmail.co.uk

CHILDREN’S LITURGY:
We are delighted to announce that due to a couple of more volunteers, we can now offer Children’s Liturgy twice a month at St Columba’s. Thank you to all those who have expressed an interest in assisting with this vital part of the Mass and we hope that soon we will have enough volunteers to run it at both churches with the parish and each week. Should anybody be interested in helping with Children’s Liturgy please contact Gillian Blatch at gh.settle@gmail.com

PRAYER AND THE SPIRITUAL LIFE WORKSHOP:
Pope Francis has designated 2024 a Year of Prayer. He urges us to embrace prayer ‘as the royal road to holiness’. As part of your journey to deepen your prayer life, we invite you to access a workshop entitled Growth in Holiness: Prayer and the Spiritual Life offered to you freely by the Diocese of Shrewsbury, in conjunction with the Franciscan Catechetical Institute. Please see notice boards or visit this webpage for more information: https://www.dioceseofshrewsbury.org/growth-in-holiness-prayer-and-the-spiritual-life-workshop-offering-for-parishes/

THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD – 9^th MAY:
The Ascension is a Holyday of Obligation and Mass will be at St Theresa’s at 10am and at St Columba’s at 7pm.

PENTECOST APPEAL FOR THE SPIRITANS:
The Holy Ghost Fathers, Spiritans (the Religious Order of Frs.William and  Desmond) will be having a mission appeal in both churches in aid of their mission here in the UK and abroad, on Pentecost Sunday. Spiritan students: Caliel from Cameroon and Valentine from Nigeria will preachthe appeals. Parishioners are encouraged to contribute generously insupport of the Spiritan missions. Your donations make a lot of positiveimpact on the lives of your Christian brothers and sisters in need. For more information there are leaflets and envelopes available at the back of church.

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN UPTON:
The Annual Coach Outing will be held on Wednesday 29^th May and will be to the church of Our Lady and St. Nicholas in Liverpool. See the Notice Boards for more details.

RIGHT TO LIFE (UK):
Ask your MP to support the abortion time limit reduction amendment
Support an amendment to reduce our abortion time limit from 24 weeks to 22 weeks. Research indicates that a significant number of babies born at 22 or 23 weeks can now survive outside the womb, leaving a contradiction in our abortion law. Take action: Collect a postcard today from the back of the church and post it to your MP urgently in support of this amendment! – Our MP is Samantha Dixon.

DIRECTOR OF SCHOOLS VACANCY:
The Diocese is seeking to recruit a Director of Schools and applications are now open. Details of the role and the application process can be found at https://www.tes.com/jobs/vacancy/director-of-schools-birkenhead-2040730

THE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL is looking for exam invigilators to support the exams from as soon as possible. If anyone is interested please visit the school website Vacancies – The Chester Catholic High School (christofidelis.org.uk) or email Mr Kilcoyne School Business Manager kilcoynea@christofidelis.org.uk  for more details.

A YEAR OF ENCOUNTER:
With a UK general election due sometime this year, politicians will be looking for our votes. We have a responsibility as Catholics to make sure that parties commit to tackling issues such as poverty and injustice. Raising our voices and contacting parliamentary candidates as a parish community will send a strong signal to those standing for election in our local constituencies. A Year of Encounter is a joint initiative between CAFOD and St Vincent de Paul Society (SVP), equipping Catholics to ask key questions of local candidates at the key moments. Please see cafod.org.uk/encounter for more information, including an online session on Saturday 4th May to learn more.

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Carol Galvin, St. Columba’s Church Office, phone: 01244 624019, email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com. Office hours Monday to Friday 8.30a.m. to 12.30p.m.
Hall availability can be checked by looking at St Columba’s Church website – section for Church Hall gives a calendar of events in the Hall. Then contact Sue Carr on 07553 114531 or email columbashallbookings@gmail.com to arrange booking.

RED BOXES (St Theresa’s):
The boxes are available at the back of Church for you to collect. Thank you for your donations.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK:
We can’t choose the music life plays for us, but we can choose how we dance to it!  Kate B Jackson

SVP THEATRE NIGHT – THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST:
The SVP will be holding their annual theatre night at the Gladstone theatre, Port Sunlight on Tuesday June 4th at 7.30. Tickets £12 available from Sue McCarthy or any SVP member.07515 491251. All proceeds go to the SVP holiday home.

BARN DANCE – ST COLUMBA’S HALL:
In aid of Hospice of the Good Shepherd. Saturday 1^st June. Tickets £18. Telephone 07861049281 for tickets or more information.

CAFOD – CALL FOR A CEASEFIRE IN THE HOLY LAND:
Thousands of people have been killed across Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory as the region witnesses the deadliest days in recent history. CAFOD unequivocally condemns this shocking killing and kidnapping of civilians. But we know more violence is never the answer.

The scale of the Israeli government’s violent retaliation is causing more civilian deaths and injuries. The decision to withhold food, water and fuel from reaching the two million inhabitants of Gaza – half of whom are children – will inevitably lead to a humanitarian catastrophe. Will you email the Foreign Secretary to urge the UK to play its part in upholding international law, ensuring humanitarian aid can reach people in need, and works with other world leaders to secure a lasting peace for the region? Go to cafod.org.uk for more details of what to email. In addition we could all consider doing what we can personally to make our views known to those in authority, our MPs for instance. Copies of a CAFOD’s prayer for peace in Israel and Gaza are available in the church porches.

CONTINUING SUPPORT FOR NEWBORN BABIES IN AFRICA:
A request for unwanted sewing patterns for young children’s clothing, please. As part of our ongoing support for African children, we would like to make a variety of clothing for them, please arrange a handover with Margaret on 01244 318424.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER:
5^th May edition will be compiled by Eileen Irwin, phone: 01244 371660; or email: st.theresas@btinternet.com. Please include a phone number in case of queries, andplease ensure that items are emailed or phoned to thecompiler by 9.00A.M. on WEDNESDAY1^st MAY 2024