SECOND  SUNDAY OF ADVENT

10TH DECEMBER 2023

Sat 9 Dec
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Frank & Gertrude Buddery
Sun 10 Dec
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Stephen Dale RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Peter O’Callaghan recovery from illness
Mon 11 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Patricia Karasiewicz
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Joyce Backhouse RIP
Tue 12 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
Wed 13 Dec			St Lucy, V, M. Mem
St. Theresa’s			Private Intention
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayer
	10.30am		Cath Carter RIP
Thu 14 Dec			St John of the Cross, P, D
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s			Private Intentions
Fri 15 Dec
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Henry Michael Lloyd
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Sat 16 Dec
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Ruth O’Donnell RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		John Black birthday
Sun 17 Dec
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Mary ”Cathy” Carney
St. Columba’s	11.00am		The Parish

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 11.00 0a.m. this Sunday 10th December 2023.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

Christmas Mass Times – St Columba’s  –

4^th Sunday of Advent – Saturday 23^rd December
6.30 p.m. Vigil Mass

Christmas Eve – Sunday 24^th December
11.00 am Mass for 4th Sunday of Advent
4.30 p.m. Children’s Nativity Mass

Christmas Day –  Monday 25^th December
11.00 a.m. Mass (streamed) 

Christmas Mass Times – St Theresa’s –

Christmas Eve – Sunday 4^th December
4.30pm Carols followed by Vigil Mass 5.00pm

Christmas Day – Monday 25^th December
9.30am Christmas Day Mass 

Feast of St Stephen – Tuesday 26^th December
12 noon ST THERESA’S ONLY!

The Holy Family – Sunday 31^st December
9.30 am.   – St Theresa’s
11.00 am.  – St Columba’s

Mary Mother of God – Monday 1^st January 2024
10.30am.   – St Columba’s

Pope’s Prayer Intentions for December – For people with disabilities Let us pray that people with disabilities may be at the centre of attention in society, and that institutions may offer inclusion programmes that value their active participation.

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

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

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers Cath Carter, Joyce Backhouse and Desmond Dunne who died recently.  May the Lord console their Family and friends. Cath’s Requiem will be held at 10.00am on Thursday 28^th December at St Columba’s, and Desmond’s at 10.15am on Thursday 21^st December at St Theresa’s.

ANNIVERSARIES:
Maureen Elizabeth Sheriffs

OFFERTORY:
St Columba’s: Loose plate £291.05; Planned Giving £156.50; Average Weekly SO – £574.00;
St Theresa’s: Loose plate & Planned Giving £244.90; Average weekly SO – £161.00.
THANK YOU for all your generous support.

PRAYING TOGETHER
We pray for:

• the residents of Woburn Drive, Halton Road, Dorset Place and Cotswold Close, Meynell Place, Marlowe Close, Palgrave Close and Tennyson Walk.
• For the Youth Clubs and Youth workers in our churches.
• For all young people in our community.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
10th Dec – Rippon family for Camps International Humanitarian Collaboration 
17th Dec – Richard Curtis for Altar Servers’ ‘Thank you’ Outing
Why not donate a little time to make tea and coffee after 11:00 Mass on Sunday?  You can make some money for your favourite charity, too. Call Margaret Curtis 01244 318424 to book your date(s).

CHRISTMAS  FLOWERS:
There will be a collection – at St. Columba’s – after both Masses next week end 16th/17th December for flowers to decorate the Church for the Christmas  celebration.    Thank you in advance for your continued support and generosity

ADVENT JOURNEY – HOSTING OUR KNITTED MARY, JOSEPH & DONKEY FIGURES
To focus our attention on Advent, we’re asking all households, particularly those with young children, to host our knitted Mary, Joseph and donkey for one or more nights to symbolise the journey to Bethlehem. The knitted family will arrive in Bethlehem, actually St Theresa’s crib, on Friday 22nd December during the Carol Service.  
If you can host these small figures, (they’re no trouble) please add your details to the list in the church porch BY 3^rd DECEMBER IF POSSIBLE.

ANGELS, SHEEP, DONKEYS, KINGS, ACTORS AND SHEPHERDS NEEDED!:
The children’s liturgy invites children of all ages to come and take part in St Columba’s Christmas Eve celebration Mass at 4.30 pm.  For further information please contact Gillian Blatch at stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com and mark it for the attention of Gillian Children’s liturgy. 

YOUTH GROUP:
The next meeting of our Parish Youth Group will be on Monday 11th December from 7-8.30pm in St Columba’s Church. Young people from Year 5 onwards are welcome. We would love to see you there!

Highlight from the High: You are invited to our school Christmas Fair on Tuesday 19th December from 4:30pm, entry fee £1, followed by Carol Service at 6:30pm.  We are still welcoming book donations for one of our stalls. Thank you.

CONCLUSIONS OF FIRST SYNOD ON SYNODALITY IN ROME:
Proposals in the document released at the conclusion of the Synod (which began at the local level two years ago and in which we participated)  include an expanded role for women in ministry, making lay involvement in decision making mandatory, an overhaul of the seminary system for training priests and a revision of the Church’s Code of Canon Law. On women deacons the Synod agreed that more discernment was necessary. While gay and lesbian Catholics were not expressly mentioned it was recognised that the Church had not adequately taken into account human experiences and the science. There is also a proposal to give ‘further consideration’ to the ordination of married men. Pastoral Councils, of clergy and laity, are to be made obligatory at parish and diocesan levels. The concluding session of the Synod will be held in the Vatican next autumn. The Synod is a consultative body and the Pope has the final say. (Summary of report in The Tablet, 4.11.23.     Pauline Rourke)

RED MISSION BOXES, ST COLUMBA’S:
If you have a Red Mission box for collection, please leave it in the sacristy. When counted I can return your box to your home. Thank you, Margaret Curtis 01244 318424.

‘LAUDATE DEUM’ SENT TO PRIME MINISTER SUNAK:
On 4^th October Pope Francis published his Apostolic Exhortation, Laudate Deum (Praise God), on the climate crisis. Ahead of the COP 28 meeting which begins on 30 November  in Dubai, Salford bishop, John Arnold, has sent a copy to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in an appeal to take further action against climate change.  Pope Francis said ‘the impact of climate change will increasingly prejudice the lives and families of many persons. We will feel its effects in the areas of healthcare, sources of employment, access to resources, housing, forced migrations, etc. Human beings must respect the laws of nature and the delicate equilibria existing between the creatures of this world. The most effective solutions will not come from individual efforts alone but above all from major political decisions on the national and international level’                                                                                               

CHRISTMAS  MEMORY  TREE:
A time to remember those who will not be able to celebrate Christmas this year. There will be a tree and cards on the side Altar (near the back door) at St. Columba’s  to write your message and hang it on the tree.  The message is the important thing, but if anyone wishes to make a donation there will be a basket for donations in aid of the Parish Third World Project.

LOURDES HOSPITALITY UPDATE:
Further to the recent AGM, the officers have been meeting monthly to discuss the issues raised and future plans. A face-to-face meeting for all members will be held on Saturday 20^th January 2024 ( venue and time to be confirmed ). In the meantime, if you have any questions for us, please send an email to : secretary@teamshrewsbury.co.uk

Newsletter – Warning – Our printers close over the Christmas/New Year season, we will therefore be preparing three newsletters, early, the deadline date for all three for item inclusion will be Monday 18^th December 9am at the latest. Please email or phone items to the compiler. Include your phone number in case of queries.    If you can prepare items before this date that would be much appreciated.  Urgent items received after that date can be verbally communicated. 
Sunday 24 Dec – Harry Sweeney, harrysweeney45@gmail.com 01244 327462
Christmas Day 25 Dec – Amy O’Donnell, amyod@hotmail.com 07854 290897
New Year 31 Dec – Eileen Irwin, st.theresas@btinternet.com 01244 371660

Thought for the week:  There comes a time when silence is betrayal.  Martin Luther King Jr

We’re all in this together: Advent week 2 is represented by the second purple candle in our advent wreath, the peace candle. Our world, our communities and our families long for peace but the possibility can sometimes seem very remote.  We started advent with the candle of hope on our wreath and we nurture that hope and we look and pray for peace.  It may be inner peace, peace with others, putting aside differences, peace in our world! In those moments of quiet that you may have, please pray for peace. Our world needs peace, no matter how big the challenge. 

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 9.00am to 1.00pm
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.

PIETY STALL:
The Piety stall is now selling Christmas Cards, diaries and calendars.  If you need anything else, I have a catalogue, please telephone me on 01244 329469.  Many thanks.

CAFOD WORLD GIFTS
A range of virtual charity gifts that will delight the people you give them to and help transform the lives of families experiencing poverty. Catalogues available in the church porches along with Advent prayer cards.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER:
10^th December 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  13^TH DECEMBER 2023

FIRST  SUNDAY OF ADVENT

3^RD DECEMBER 2023

Sat 2 Dec
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		The Parish
Sun 3 Dec			First Sunday of Advent and Special day of Prayer for Migrants and Refugees
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Christine Hunter RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Parishioners’ Intentions
Mon 4 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Eddie Mapp RIP
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Maureen Brady RIP
Tue 5 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Wed 6 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Private Intention
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayer
	10.30am		Cath Carter RIP
Thu 7 Dec			St Ambrose, B D
St. Theresa’s			Peter Burton RIP
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Fri 8 Dec			The Immaculate Conception of BVM
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Mae Dunne’s Intentions
St. Columba’s			Delia Hesketh RIP
Sat 9 Dec
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Frank and Gertrude Buddery Anniversary
Sun 10 Dec			Second Sunday of Advent
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Stephen Dale RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Peter O’Callaghan recovery from illness

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 9.30a.m. this Sunday 3^rd December 2023.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers Cath Carter who died recently.  May the Lord console her family and friends.

ANNIVERSARIES:
Calogera Anna ( Lina) Safina, Mary Rhoden, Richard Heselwood, Graham James George.

WEDDINGS, BAPTISMS AND FUNERALS:
Please contact one of the Parish Offices to make your arrangements.  We welcome into God’s family Jack Anthony James Shone and Santino Antonio Stanford, who were baptised recently.  May God bless them and their families.

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

OFFERTORY:
St Columba’s: (19.11 and 26.11) Loose plate 755.05; Planned Giving £245.00; Average Weekly SO – £574.00; Candles £55. 73’ Piety Stall  £70.00;
St Theresa’s: Loose plate & Planned Giving £233.90; Average weekly SO – £161.00.
THANK YOU for all your generous support.

PRAYING TOGETHER
We pray for:

• The residents of Glastonbury Avenue, Tewkesbury Close and Marlowe Avenue, Shelley Road, Coleridge Close, Steams Close and Housman Close.
• Those who are bereaved and those who provide support.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
3rd Dec – Claire O’Donnell for Mind
10th Dec – Rippon family for Camps International Humanitarian Collaboration
17th Dec – Richard Curtis for Altar Servers’ ‘Thank you’ Outing
Why not donate a little time to make tea and coffee after 11:00 Mass on Sunday?  You can make some money for your favourite charity, too. Call Margaret Curtis 01244 318424 to book your date(s).

CAKES FOR CLAIRE:
Many of us remember the shock and sadness we felt in April when we heard we’d lost Claire Graham, a mainstay of children’s liturgy for over a decade, a champion for children and young people with special needs, a formidable fund raiser and for us all, a great friend.  In her memory and to raise funds for MIND, there will be delicious cakes after mass on Sunday 3rd December.  Please do come and join us.

CAFOD WORLD GIFTS are a range of virtual charity gifts that will delight the people you give them to and help transform the lives of families experiencing poverty. Catalogues available in the church porches along with Advent prayer cards.

RED MISSION BOXES, ST COLUMBA’S:
If you have a Red Mission box for collection, please leave it in the sacristy. When counted I can return your box to your home. Thank you, Margaret Curtis 01244 318424.

ADVENT JOURNEY – HOSTING OUR KNITTED MARY, JOSEPH & DONKEY FIGURES
To focus our attention on Advent, we’re asking all households, particularly those with young children, to host our knitted Mary, Joseph and donkey for one or more nights to symbolise the journey to Bethlehem. The knitted family will arrive in Bethlehem, actually St Theresa’s crib, on Friday 22nd December during the Carol Service.  If you can host these small figures, (they’re no trouble) please add your details to the list in the church porch BY 3^rd DECEMBER IF POSSIBLE.

CHRISTMAS PARTY:
This year’s Christmas Party for Senior parishioners and Parish volunteers, is been held on Sat 9th of December in St Columba’s Church Hall starting at 2 p.m. Free food and drinks plus entertainment by Upton Community Choir.  

SINFONIA CHRISTMAS CONCERT:
SINFONIA is a local music group who use the Hall for their rehearsals. They are going to give a Christmas Concert on Friday 8th December at 7pm in the Hall. Admission free. Tea & mince pies  free. A retiring collection will be available for Dee Banks School. Please come along and support this event.

ANGELS, SHEEP, DONKEYS, KINGS, ACTORS AND SHEPHERDS NEEDED!
The children’s liturgy invites children of all ages to come and take part in St Columba’s Christmas Eve celebration Mass at 4.30 pm.  For further information please contact Gillian Blatch at stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com and mark it for the attention of Gillian Children’s liturgy. 

CLOTH FOR THE CRADLE – 11.00 Mass St Columba’s:
Cloth for the cradle, cradle for the child.
The child for our every joy and sorrow;
Find him a shawl that’s woven by us all
To welcome the Lord of each tomorrow.

1. Darkness and light and all that’s known by sight,
Silence and echo fading,
Weave into one a welcome for the Son.
Set earth its own maker serenading.

2. Hungry and poor, the sick and the unsure,
Wealthy whose needs are stranger,
Weave into one a welcome for the Son,
Leave excess and want beneath the manger.

3. Claimant and queen, wage earners in between,
Trader and travelling preacher
Weave into one a welcome for the Son,
Whose word brings new life to every creature.

4. Wrinkled or fair, carefree or full of care,
Searchers of all the ages,
Weave into one a welcome for the Son,
The Saviour of shepherd and of sages.

Copyright © 1987 WGRG, Iona Community, Glasgow, Scotland. www.wildgoose.scot

Highlight from the High: 
You are invited to our school Christmas Fair on Tuesday 19th December from 4:30pm, entry fee £1, followed by Carol Service at 6:30pm.  We are still welcoming book donations for one of our stalls. Thank you.

Thought for the week
“At this Christmas when Christ comes, will He find a warm heart? Mark the season of Advent by loving and serving the others with God’s own love and concern.” – Mother Teresa.

CONCLUSIONS OF FIRST SYNOD ON SYNODALITY IN ROME:
Proposals in the document released at the conclusion of the Synod (which began at the local level two years ago and in which we participated)  include an expanded role for women in ministry, making lay involvement in decision making mandatory, an overhaul of the seminary system for training priests and a revision of the Church’s Code of Canon Law. On women deacons the Synod agreed that more discernment was necessary. While gay and lesbian Catholics were not expressly mentioned it was recognised that the Church had not adequately taken into account human experiences and the science. There is also a proposal to give ‘further consideration’ to the ordination of married men. Pastoral Councils, of clergy and laity, are to be made obligatory at parish and diocesan levels. The concluding session of the Synod will be held in the Vatican next autumn. The Synod is a consultative body and the Pope has the final say. (Summary of report in The Tablet, 4.11.23.     Pauline Rourke)

‘LAUDATE DEUM’ SENT TO PRIME MINISTER SUNAK:
On 4^th October Pope Francis published his Apostolic Exhortation, Laudate Deum (Praise God), on the climate crisis. Ahead of the COP 28 meeting which begins on 30 November  in Dubai, Salford bishop, John Arnold, has sent a copy to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in an appeal to take further action against climate change.  Pope Francis said ‘the impact of climate change will increasingly prejudice the lives and families of many persons. We will feel its effects in the areas of healthcare, sources of employment, access to resources, housing, forced migrations, etc. Human beings must respect the laws of nature and the delicate equilibria existing between the creatures of this world. The most effective solutions will not come from individual efforts alone but above all from major political decisions on the national and international level’                                                                                              

Resources: If you are struggling to find a gift for someone this Christmas, maybe this gift guide can help you out  https://www.socialenterprise.org.uk/app/uploads/2023/11/Social-Enterprise-festive-gift-guide-2023-web.pdf  paper copies are on the noticeboards.  The guide has 6 categories and is a collection of social enterprises. Each and every gift makes a difference to communities or the environment.  See also CAFOD and their world gifts https://worldgifts.cafod.org.uk, and Oxfam for presents and fair trade items. 

We’re all in this together: Advent is now upon us, this weekend begins a four week period of preparation for the nativity of Jesus Christ at Christmas. The Advent Season is all about reflecting on how we can prepare our hearts and homes for Christ’s birth in the world today.   How will you prepare?  possibly host our knitted Mary, Joseph and donkey on their journey and use it as a family reflection?  Use the CAFOD daily advent reflection? Give yourself 5 minutes in the day to be calm and reflect, listen to music, etc.  Remember, Christmas isn’t about the biggest and the best; Steve Jobs reminded us that wearing a £300 or £30 watch, they both tell the same time. Take care. 

CHRISTMAS  MEMORY  TREE: 
A time to remember those who will not be able to celebrate Christmas this year. There will be a tree and cards on the side Altar (near the back door) at St. Columba’s  to write your message and hang it on the tree. The message is the important thing, but if anyone wishes to make a donation there will be a basket for donations in aid of the Parish Third World Project.

PIETY STALL:
The Piety stall is now selling Christmas Cards, diaries and calendars.  If you need anything else, I have a catalogue, please telephone me on 01244 329469.  Many thanks.

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 9.00am to 1.00pm
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:
10^th December 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  6^TH DECEMBER 2023

THIRTY FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

26^th  NOVEMBER 2023

Sat 25 Nov
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Bernard and Maureen Wilkinson
Sun 26 Nov			Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Jefferey Samuel Parry RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Eddie and Family
Mon 27 Nov
St. Theresa’s			Holy Souls
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Alphie Lewis RIP
Tue 28 Nov
St. Theresa’s			Sheila Gilden RIP
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Wed 29 Nov
St. Theresa’s			Holy Souls
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayer
	10.30am		Brian Haslam 90th B.D
Thu 30 Nov			St Andrew, Patron of Scotland
St. Theresa’s			Holy Souls
St. Columba’s			Gerry Galvin B.D
Fri 1 Dec
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Ints of St Theresa’s School
St. Columba’s			Holy Souls
Sat 2 Dec
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		The Parish
Sun 3 Dec
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Christine Hunter RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Parishioners’ 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 Theresa’s at 9.30a.m. this Sunday 26th November 2023.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

POPE’S PRAYER INTENTIONS – NOVEMBER:
Let us pray for the Pope that, with the help of the Holy Spirit, he may continue to accompany in the faith the flock entrusted to him.

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers Cath Carter who died recently.  May the Lord console her family and friends.

ANNIVERSARIES:
Ann White, Hilary Watmough, Liliana Gittins, Jefferey Samuel Parry, Paolo Florio, Susan Mary Roberts, Peter Anthony B urton, Christian Mapp, Mary Taylor

WEDDINGS, BAPTISMS AND FUNERALS:
Please contact one of the Parish Offices to make your arrangements.  We welcome into God’s family Jack Anthony James Shone and Santino Antonio Stanford, who were baptised recently.  May God bless them and their families.

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

OFFERTORY:
St Columba’s: Loose plate TBC; Planned Giving TBC; Average Weekly SO – £574.00; Candles TBC.Badminton £206
St Theresa’s: Loose plate & Planned Giving £477.94; Average weekly SO – £161.00.
THANK YOU for all your generous support.

PRAYING TOGETHER
We pray for:

• the residents of Gatesheath Drive, Alpraham Crescent, St James Ave, Donne Place, Kipling Rd. Wordsworth Mews, & Wordsworth Square.
• For those who prepare couples for marriage.
• For those couples married in our churches this year and those who are about to be married.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
26th Nov – Lina Greig for Christ Heart Children’s Orphanage, Uganda – money raised will go towards children’s Christmas lunch, presents and clothing
3rd Dec – Claire O’Donnell for Mind
10th Dec – Rippon family for Camps International Humanitarian Collaboration 
Why not donate a little time to make tea and coffee after 11:00 Mass on Sunday?  You can make some money for your favourite charity, too. Call Margaret Curtis 01244 318424 to book your date(s).

THE AUTUMN FAYRE
Thank you to all who helped out at the Autumn Fayre and for donations, plus those who attended to make it a success.

FIRST SACRAMENTS – ST COLUMBA’S:
This Sunday 12 children from the parish who are preparing to receive First Sacraments this school year will be enrolled in their preparation programme during the 11.00am Mass. Please pray for the children and their families at this important time in their faith journey.

CHESTER CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL. GOVERNOR VACANCY NOVEMBER 2023
There is currently a vacancy for 1 new Foundation governor at Chester Catholic High. As a Foundation governor you would ensure the Catholic teachings are preparing all our students, Catholic and non-Catholic alike, to be ready to leave school prepared for their future in this ever changing world. We all have talents to share. You just need to be able to offer your time and commitment as a volunteer for the benefit of the students and staff in our school. The term of office is 4 years.
To apply, you do not have to have a connection with the school but you must be a practicing catholic and belong to a parish. This is so your parish priest can vouch for you and sign your application form.
There are full details of the role and how to apply on the Diocese website: https://educationshrewsbury.org/schools&academies- governance.
A Disclosure Barring service (DBS) will be applied for once an application for any governor role has been approved.
If you would like an informal chat about governance, or wish to express an interest in the role, please contact the Chair of Governors via the school email:johnsonj@christofidelis.org.uk.

HIGHLIGHT FROM THE HIGH:
Students from The Catholic High School, Chester are performing ‘Annie Jr’ on Tuesday 28th and Wednesday 29th November at 7pm.  There are over 70 students involved in the production and it is set to be a fantastic performance.  If you would like to buy tickets please do so by heading to https://app.parentpay.com/ParentPayShop/Uniform/Default.aspx?shopid=7772    £8.50 per adult; £7.00 per child (any child still in school/sixth form)

EXHIBITION IN THE PARISH HALL:
Today, 26th November after Mass, while we have tea and coffee in the hall, you can see a free exhibition about the life and teaching of Servant God Fr. Luigi Giussani. He is the founder of the Catholic Movement of Communion and Liberation. The encounter with Fr Giussani (1922-2005) has left an indelible mark on the lives of many people worldwide, including some members of our parish. Joint us in discovering a legacy that goes beyond borders and generations. Giovanna and Luca 

UPTON DRAMATIC SOCIETY:
The 39 Steps – Upton Village Hall Wednesday 29th November to Saturday 2nd December.    Tickets £10 each.   Call 07847619190   (see poster in porch)

COMMUNITY CAROLS – BLACON:
This Carol service will take place at Holy Trinity Church, Norris Road, Blacon on Monday 4^th December at 6pm. All are welcome.

CAFOD WORLD GIFTS
are a range of virtual charity gifts that will delight the people you give them to and help transform the lives of families experiencing poverty. Each World Gift is a real example of CAFOD’s work. When you choose a gift, you support the area of our work that this gift represents. So, for example, when you buy chickens, you support our work with poor farmers in rural areas of the countries we work in, by contributing to our Farming fund.
Catalogues are available in the church porches

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN UPTON: THURSDAY COFFEE MORNING:
This event has donated £700 to various local and national charities during 2022/23.  Details are on the Notice Board.  Thanks for your support

ADVENT JOURNEY – HOSTING OUR KNITTED MARY, JOSEPH & DONKEY FIGURES
To focus our attention on Advent, we’re asking all households, particularly those with young children, to host our knitted Mary, Joseph and donkey for one or more nights to symbolise the journey to Bethlehem. The knitted family will arrive in Bethlehem, actually St Theresa’s crib, on Friday 22nd December during the Carol Service.  
If you can host these small figures, (they’re no trouble) please add your details to the list in the church porch BY 3^rd DECEMBER IF POSSIBLE, so we can plan the route and arrange the transfer from host to host.

CHRISTMAS Party for Seniors (50+) and volunteers Sat 9th Dec 
This year’s Christmas Party for Senior parishioners and also Parish volunteers, is been held on Sat 9th of December in St Columba’s Church Hall starting at 2 p.m. Free food and drinks plus entertainment by Upton Community choir.  

SINFONIA     
Are a local music group who use the Hall for their rehearsals.    They gave a very enjoyable concert earlier this year and are going to give a Christmas Concert on Friday 8th December at 7pm in the Hall.    Admission free. Tea & mince pies free.   A retiring collection will be available for Dee Banks School.   Please come along and support this event.

ANGELS, SHEEP, DONKEYS, KINGS, ACTORS AND SHEPHERDS NEEDED!
The children’s liturgy invites children of all ages to come and take part in St Columba’s Christmas Eve celebration Mass at 4.30 pm.  Whether you are a budding actor, narrator, musician or would just like to dress up and be part of the celebrations we want to hear from you. For further information please contact Gillian Blatch at stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com and mark it for the attention of Gillian Children’s liturgy. 

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 9.00am to 1.00pm
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.

REPORT FROM PASTORAL COUNCIL MEETING 25 OCTOBER 2023
Reports were received and discussed from the SVP, youth group, buildings, social committee etc and on the recent appeals to parishioners to consider their financial donations and for volunteers. Appreciation was expressed for those parishioners who responded. It was agreed that the level of donations should be monitored and that another appeal held in the future. All the new volunteers will be approached in the next few weeks and a small group of ‘welcomers’ assembled to consider some possibilities for widening this role. The two chairpersons are now working on a recruitment strategy for volunteers for the more spiritual aspects of church life.        Ann McCarthy, Pauline Rourke

Resources: The Cheshire prize for literature 2023/24 is now open and will close on January 31^st 2024.  There are three age groups: primary, secondary and over 18’s and four categories: short stories, poetry, children’s literature and scriptwriting.  No theme, so you can write about anything.  Further details on cwac.co/4ByYG.  Any queries about the competition should be emailed to cheshireprize@chester.ac.uk  or phone 01244 511344. 

WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER: World Youth Sunday will be celebrated on Sunday 26 November. This year the Pope has chosen “Rejoicing in Hope” (Rom 12:12) as its theme.  The Pope talks of “As young people, you are indeed the joyful hope of the Church and of a humanity always on the move. I would like to take you by the hand and walk with you on the path of hope. I would like to speak with you about our joys and hopes, but also of our sorrows and concerns, and those of all our brothers and sisters in the human family..How can we live without hope? What would our days be like? Hope is the salt of our daily lives.”  He asks our youth to “Remain open, like canals in which the hope of Jesus can flow and spread in all the areas where you live”.  God bless our youth, they are our future, and God bless all families, parents, guardians, teachers, youth workers, coaches and all who help our Youth, to be the best that they can be.   The full link to the Pope’s message to the Youth can be found at https://worldyouthday.com/message-of-his-holiness-pope-francis-for-the-xxxviii-world-youth-day/

PIETY STALL:
The Piety stall is now selling Christmas Cards, diaries and calendars.  If you need anything else, I have a catalogue, please telephone me on 01244 329469.  Many thanks.

RED MISSION BOXES, ST COLUMBA’S:
If you have a Red Mission box for collection, please leave it in the sacristy. When counted I can return your box to your home. Thank you, Margaret Curtis 01244 318424.

FREE NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION:
Do you want an electronic version of the newsletter? If so, subscribe via our web page on  https://sscolumbaandtheresa.co.uk/  Front page bottom right – subscribe button. 

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER:
3^rd December edition will be compiled by Alison Wrigglesworth, phone: 01244 382457 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 the compiler by 9.00a.m. on WEDNESDAY 29^th  November

THIRTY THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

19TH NOVEMBER 2023

Sat 18 Nov
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Michael Berry RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		The Parish
Sun 19 Nov
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Delia Hesketh RIP
Mon 20 Nov
St. Theresa’s			Kenneth Kilcoyne RIP
St. Columba’s	10.30am		John Fletcher RIP
Tue 21 Nov			Presentation of the BVM
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s			Mark Traynor
Wed 22 Nov			St Cecilia, V. M. Mem
St. Theresa’s			Private Intention
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayer
	10.30am		Sean McCabe RIP
Thu 23 Nov
St. Theresa’s			Special Intention
St. Columba’s			Holy Souls
Fri 24 Nov			Ss Andrew Dung-Lac, P and Companions
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Kathleen Holden RIP
St. Columba’s	10.00am		Funeral Service for Maureen Brady
Sat 25 Nov
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Bernard and Maureen Wilkinson
Sun 26 Nov
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Jefferey Samuel Parry RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Eddie and Family

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 19th November 2023.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

POPE’S PRAYER INTENTIONS – NOVEMBER:
Let us pray for the Pope that, with the help of the Holy Spirit, he may continue to accompany in the faith the flock entrusted to him.

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers Maureen Theresa Brady. Maureen’s Funeral Service is at St Columba’s on Friday 24^th November at 10a.m. May the Lord console her family and friends.

ANNIVERSARIES:
Annina (Ann) Florio, Berta Barton, Victor Alfred Piggott, Kathleen Margaret Maguire, George Richard Becker, Eric Walsh, Owen Christopher O’Hanlon, Elizabeth Bayley.

WEDDINGS, BAPTISMS AND FUNERALS:
Please contact one of the Parish Offices to make your arrangements.  We welcome into God’s family Jack Anthony James Shone and Santino Antonio Stanford, who were baptised recently.  May God bless them and their families.

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

OFFERTORY:
St Columba’s: Loose plate £428.12; Planned Giving £100.50; Average Weekly SO – £574.00; Candles £25.55.
St Theresa’s: Loose plate & Planned Giving £790.66; Average weekly SO – £161.00.
THANK YOU for all your generous support.

PIETY STALL:
The Piety stall is now selling Christmas Cards, diaries and calendars.  If you need anything else, I have a catalogue, please telephone me on 01244 329469.  Many thanks.

ST. COLUMBA’S BASKET COLLECTION SATURDAYS:
Following suggestions from parishioners and the kindness of volunteers, from Saturday 4th November, the collection basket will be passed round at Saturday evening Mass instead of being left at the rear of the church.  

PRAYING TOGETHER
We pray for:

• the residents of Cotebrook Drive, Oulton Avenue, Rushton Drive,  Barnes, Morgan Close, Griffin Close and Blake Close.
• our churches open on Saturdays and the fellowship enjoyed there.
• all who use and maintain the web sites.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
19^th Nov – Autumn Fair
26th Nov – Lina Greig for Christ Heart Children’s Orphanage, Uganda – money raised will go towards children’s Christmas lunch, presents and clothing
3rd Dec – Claire O’Donnell for Mind
10th Dec – Rippon family for Camps International Humanitarian Collaboration 
Why not donate a little time to make tea and coffee after 11:00 Mass on Sunday?  You can make some money for your favourite charity, too. Call Margaret Curtis 01244 318424 to book your date(s).

FIRST SACRAMENTS – ST COLUMBA’S:
Next Sunday 26th November children from the parish who are preparing to receive First Sacraments this school year will be enrolled in their preparation programme during the 11.00am Mass. Please pray for the children and their families at this important time in their faith journey.

HOSPICE COFFEE MORNING:
THANK YOU to all who supported and helped in any way with last week’s Coffee morning for the  Hospice. We made £300 thanks to lots of generous donations. This has gone to the Hospice – on behalf of the Parish as a thank you for the care shown to Delia.

LOUDFENCE – SAFEGUARDING:
Thank you to all who submitted prayers and/or reflections, in support of victims and survivors of abuse, for offering up in the Mass at Holy Apostles and Martyrs church, Wallasey on Tuesday last. All such received were displayed around the church as a sign of solidarity. The Mass was a prelude to Safeguarding Week in the Diocese which began with the Safeguarding Mass at St Mary’s, Crewe on Saturday and continues with this Safeguarding Sunday. Please keep all concerned in your prayers.

AUTUMN FAYRE – 19^TH NOVEMBER 2023 – TODAY:
This popular event in St Columba’s Hall is upon us again.
Everyone is welcome to come along to enjoy a delicious selection of soup, sandwiches, hotdogs and pizza. Browse the variety of stalls selling homemade items and produce or try to win a prize in the tombola. TODAY (SUNDAY) AFTER THE 11AM MASS AT ST COLUMBA’S.

Please note: There will be no coffee after Mass at St Theresa’s this Sunday but coffee/tea will be served at St Columba’s from 11am onwards at the Autumn Fair in the hall.

HIGHLIGHT FROM THE HIGH:
Save the date! The Catholic High School, Chester, invites you to come along to the Christmas Fair followed by Carol Service on Tuesday 19th December from 4pm in the school. There will be stalls, games, and refreshments. Visit Santa’s Grotto! The Carol Service will start at 6:30pm. Entry Fee £1. Everyone is welcome!

In preparation for the CHS Christmas Fair we are currently collecting books for one of the stalls. If you have any book in good condition that you would like to donate, please drop them off at the school reception for the attention of Ana. Thank you.

RED MISSION BOXES, ST COLUMBA’S:
If you have a Red Mission box for collection, please leave it in the sacristy. When counted I can return your box to your home. Thank you, Margaret Curtis 01244 318424.

YOUTH GROUP:
The next meeting of our Parish Youth Group will be on Monday 20th November at 7-8.30pm in St Columba’s Hall. All young people from year 5 upwards are welcome to join our friendly group. We would love to see you!

EXHIBITION IN THE PARISH HALL:
On the 26th November after Mass, while we have tea and coffee in the hall, you can see a free exhibition about the life and teaching of Servant God Fr. Luigi Giussani. He is the founder of the Catholic Movement of Communion and Liberation. The encounter with Fr Giussani (1922-2005) has left an indelible mark on the lives of many people worldwide, including some members of our parish. Joint us in discovering a legacy that goes beyond borders and generations. Giovanna and Luca 

UPTON DRAMATIC SOCIETY:
 The 39 Steps: Upton Village Hall Wednesday 29th November to Saturday 2nd December. Tickets £10 each.   Call 07847619190   (see poster in porch)

THE HOLY SOULS – NOVEMBER:
There are envelopes available at the back of church.  Please put names/donations in the envelope and place in the offertory basket, they will then be placed before the altar.

CAFOD’S ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN CRISIS APPEAL:
To donate go to cafod.org.uk/ipc or call 0303 303 3030 to support those affected and get funds to local trusted experts in Gaza and southern Israel who have been working alongside communities helping those most in need.  Your donation will help support aid workers providing urgent humanitarian aid including food, water and emergency shelter to those in need. Copies of the prayer for peace in the Middle East are available in the church porches.

WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER:
The World Day of the Poor will be celebrated by the Catholic Church on Sunday 19 November with the theme of “Do not turn your face away from anyone who is poor” (Tobit 4:7).The Pope’s message is one that “We are living in times that are not particularly sensitive to the needs of the poor. The pressure to adopt an affluent lifestyle increases, while the voices of those dwelling in poverty tend to go unheard. The poor are persons; they have faces, stories, hearts and souls. They are our brothers and sisters, with good points and bad, like all of us, and it is important to enter into a personal relation with each of them.  The Book of Tobit teaches us to be realistic and practical in whatever we do with and for the poor.” He ends by saying that “In this house of ours, which is the world, everyone has a right to experience the light of charity; no one must be deprived of that light.”   The full message can be read at https://www.cbcew.org.uk/papal-message-world-day-of-the-poor-2023/

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 9.00am to 1.00pm
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.

COMMUNITY CAROLS – BLACON:
This Carol service will take place at Holy Trinity Church, Norris Road, Blacon on Monday 4^th December at 6pm. All are welcome.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK:
“Overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity.  It is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right, the right to dignity and a decent life”. Nelson Mandela

RESOURCES:
Chester’s Christmas market chalets are being prepared for opening on Friday 17 November. The Chester Christmas Market will be open seven days a week: Sunday to Wednesday 10.30am to 6.30pm; Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10.30am to 8pm.  The festive favourites are all set to return this year: Thursday 23 November 7pm – 12 Days of Christmas parade, starting from Bridge Street; Thursday 30 November 7pm – Lantern Parade, starting from Town Hall Square; Thursday 7 December 7pm – Winter Watch Parade, starting from Town Hall Square; Thursday 14 December 6.30pm – Roman Saturnalia Parade, starting from the Grosvenor Museum; Thursday 14 December, 7pm -Winter Watch Parade, meeting the Romans in Town Hall Square. 

FREE NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION:
Do you want an electronic version of the newsletter? If so, subscribe via our web page on  https://sscolumbaandtheresa.co.uk/  Front page bottom right – subscribe button. 

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER:
26^th November edition will be compiled by Eileen Irwin, phone: 01244 379443 or 01244 371660  Email: st.theresas@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 22^nd November

THIRTY SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

12^TH NOVEMBER 2023

Sat 11 Nov
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Eta Ashe RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		The Parish
Sun 12 Nov
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Kathleen Maguire RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Brian Moyes RIP
Mon 13 Nov
St. Theresa’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Margaret Lannin RIP
Tue 14 Nov
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Funeral Service for Margaret Alcock
Wed 15 Nov
St. Theresa’s			Private Intention
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayer
	10.30am		Delia Hesketh
Thu 16 Nov
St. Theresa’s			Special Intention
St. Columba’s			Holy Souls
Fri 17 Nov
St. Theresa’s			NO 10.00 a.m. Mass
	12.30pm		Requiem Mass for John Fletcher
St. Columba’s			Private Intention
Sat 18 Nov
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Michael Berry RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Priests’ Intentions
Sun 19 Nov
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		The Parish

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 12^th November 2023.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers  Joan Benson of Grey Friars, Margaret Alcock, John Fletcher and Maureen Theresa Brady. Margaret’s Funeral Service is on Tuesday 14^th November at 11,00 a.m. at St Columba’s, John’s Requiem Mass is on Friday 17^th November at 12.30p.m. at St Theresa’s.  This will replace the normal 10a.m. Mass on that day. Maureen’s Funeral Service is at St Columba’s on Friday 24^th November at 10a.m. May the Lord console their families and friends.

ANNIVERSARIES:
Steven Andrew Roberts, Kenneth Klepalo, Annina (Ann) Florio, Berta Barton, Victor Alfred Piggott, Kathleen Margaret Maguire, George Richard Becker, Eric Walsh, Owen Christopher O’Hanlon, Elizabeth Bayley.

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

WEDDINGS, BAPTISMS AND FUNERALS:
Please contact one of the Parish Offices to make your arrangements.  We welcome into God’s family Jack Anthony James Shone and Santino Antonio Stanford, who were baptised recently.  May God bless them and their families.

OFFERTORY:
St Columba’s: Loose plate £356.75; Planned Giving £332.50; Average Weekly SO – £574.00; Piety Stall £56.80p; Candles £28.07.
St Theresa’s: Loose plate & Planned Giving £217.33; Average weekly SO – £161.00.
THANK YOU for all your generous support.

ST. COLUMBA’S BASKET COLLECTION SATURDAYS:
Following suggestions from parishioners and the kindness of volunteers, from Saturday 4th November, the collection basket will be passed round at Saturday evening Mass instead of being left at the rear of the church.  

PRAYING TOGETHER
We pray for:

• Pray for the residents of Queen’s Crescent, Weston Grove, Lakeside Close, Dukesway, Milton Road, Mostyn Place, Crabwell Place, Byron Close, Thomas Close.
• For the Senior Citizens Club, Food & Fun and St Vincent de Paul Society.
• For all those who are retired

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
12^th Nov – Sue Carr for Hospice of the Good Shepherd
19^th Nov – Autumn Fair
Why not donate a little time to make tea and coffee after 11:00 Mass on Sunday?  You can make some money for your favourite charity, too. Call Margaret Curtis 01244 318424 to book your date(s).

HOSPICE COFFEE MORNING:
After Mass this Sunday 12^th November.    Coffee and cakes to raise funds for the Hospice of the Good Shepherd – in memory of fellow parishioner – Delia Hesketh – who spent her final weeks in the Hospice recently.     The Hospice’s value is not appreciated until it is needed.    Please come and support us.

LOUDFENCE – SAFEGUARDING 14^TH NOVEMBER:
LOUDfence is a pro healing and reconciliation movement founded by Antonia Sobocki in the UK in 2020. It is a community activity of solidarity and support with abuse victims and survivors, to empower parishioners and enable them to be part of the solution by giving them an avenue to express their feelings. To safeguard is to live out the values of the Gospel in their most literal sense. A Diocesan Mass supporting the movement will be celebrated on Tuesday 14 November 6.45 pm, at Holy Apostles and Martyrs Church, Wallasey. All welcome. You are invited to submit your prayers or reflections to be offered up in the Mass; these may be submitted, anonymously, either by post using the dove image sheets provided in church porches, to the Diocesan Safeguarding Office (Curial Office, 2 Park Road South, Prenton CH43 4UX), or digitally to safeguarding@dioceseofshrewsbury.org The deadline for submissions is 7^th November.

AUTUMN FAYRE – 19^TH NOVEMBER 2023:
This popular event in St Columba’s Hall is nearly upon us again. We would love to offer food at the Fair from other world cuisines representing the parish. PLEASE contact Margaret 01244 318424, if you can bring food from your cultural heritage to give more variety. Soup, sandwiches, hotdogs and pizza are already on the menu, so whether it’s half a dozen naan breads or a pot of authentic curry, ANYTHING would be appreciated. Thank you.

AUTUMN FAIR – TOMBOLA: 
If you can donate a bottle (!) for the Tombola, please leave in the back porch of the church.

HIGHLIGHT FROM THE HIGH:
Save the date! The Catholic High School, Chester, invites you to come along to the Christmas Fair followed by Carol Service on Tuesday 19th December from 4pm in the school. There will be stalls, games, and refreshments. Visit Santa’s Grotto! The Carol Service will start at 6:30pm. Entry Fee £1. Everyone is welcome!

In preparation for the CHS Christmas Fair we are currently collecting books for one of the stalls. If you have any book in good condition that you would like to donate, please drop them off at the school reception for the attention of Ana. Thank you.

RED MISSION BOXES, ST COLUMBA’S:
If you have a Red Mission box for collection, please leave it in the sacristy. When counted I can return your box to your home. Thank you, Margaret Curtis 01244 318424.

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY:
Churches Together in Upton will be holding a short Remembrance Service today at 4.30 p.m. at Holy Ascension church.  All welcome.

YOUTH GROUP:
The next meeting of our Parish Youth Group will be on Monday 20th November at 7-8.30pm in St Columba’s Hall. All young people from year 5 upwards are welcome to join our friendly group. We would love to see you!

UPTON DRAMATIC SOCIETY:
 The 39 Steps     Upton Village Hall Wednesday 29th November to Saturday 2nd December.    Tickets £10 each.   Call 07847619190   (see poster in porch)

THE HOLY SOULS – NOVEMBER:
There are envelopes available at the back of church.  Please put names/donations in the envelope and place in the offertory basket, they will then be placed before the altar.

CAFOD’S ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN CRISIS APPEAL:
To donate go to cafod.org.uk/ipc or call 0303 303 3030 to support those affected and get funds to local trusted experts in Gaza and southern Israel who have been working alongside communities helping those most in need.  Your donation will help support aid workers providing urgent humanitarian aid including food, water and emergency shelter to those in need. Copies of the prayer for peace in the Middle East are available in the church porches.

CAFOD UPDATE:
Thank you to everyone who signed ‘Salina’s letter’ this summer. Salina is the small-scale farmer from Bangladesh who is calling on the World Bank to protect the rights of farmers over their own seeds. 70,000 parishioners in England and Wales signed the letter, and a third of all parishes took part. Salina said, “I am very happy to know about 70,000 signatures along with mine.” This helped CAFOD to secure initial meetings with World Bank staff, who heard the message that seeds are for all. This is a long struggle but it’s a very good start. Thank you for adding your voice.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK: 
Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” — Helen Keller.

WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER:
In some parts of the world, you can go into a library and, instead of borrowing a book, you can borrow a person.  That is to say you can sit down and talk to someone who maybe comes from a different country, has different views to you, has different life experiences to you.  Well, we don’t need to go to the library to meet interesting folk and have a chat, we can do it in our own halls after church with coffee and tea.  It’s amazing who you can meet.  Maybe try a different table, say hello to someone new.  See you in the church “library “for a coffee sometime and see what a fascinating community we have.

RESOURCES: 
The Home Library Service is a service that provides library material directly to the homes of readers who are unable to collect their own items from a library. This can be due to mobility issues or simply because the items are too heavy to carry.  Volunteers deliver books or talking books on a regular basis, free of charge. Contact your local library for further information. 

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 9.00am to 1.00pm
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.

FREE NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION:
Do you want an electronic version of the newsletter? If so, subscribe via our web page on  https://sscolumbaandtheresa.co.uk/  Front page bottom right – subscribe button. 

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER:
19^th November edition will be compiled by Amy O’Donnell, phone: 07854 290897  Email: amyod@hotmail.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 15^th November