amos – Page 26

Newsletter 14 May 2023

13 May 2023 By amos

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

14TH MAY 2023

Sat 13 May
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm	Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm	Clare Graham RIP

Sun 14 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am	Mae Dunne’s Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am	Parishioners’ Intentions

Mon 15 May
St. Theresa’s		Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am	The Parish

Tue 16 May
St. Theresa’s		Peter Chadwick RIP
St. Columba’s		Priests Intentions

Wed 17 May
St. Theresa’s		Malcolm Mallard RIP
St. Columba’s	9.30am	Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am	Novena Prayers
	10.30am
	1.00pm	Requiem – Gerald O’Hanlon RIP
	7.00pm	Vigil Mass for The Ascension of The Lord
Thu 18 May		The Ascension of The Lord
St. Theresa’s	9.30am	Private Intentions

Fri 19 May		St Milburga, Ab, V
St. Theresa’s	10.00am	Mary Baker’s Intentions
St. Columba’s		Parishioners’ Intentions

Sat 20 May
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm	Mark & Frank Lally RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm	Stuart Worrall RIP

Sun 21 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am	Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am	Ellie Marsden Anniversary

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.

THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD – 18^th MAY:
This is a Holy Day of Obligation, there will be a Vigil Mass at St Columba’s on Wednesday 17^th May at 7pm and Mass at St Theresa’s at 9.30am on Thursday 18^th May.

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers Claire Graham, Margaret Collins, Margaret Finnegan, Ron Wright, Stuart Worrall and Tom Groom. May the Lord console their families and friends.

CONFESSIONS:
There will be Confessions after every weekday Mass until 11.30am. at both churches.
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.

ANNIVERSARIES:
Mary Susanne Roberts, Denizel Gordon, Terence McNicholas, Cecil Arthur Baker, Joseph Stringer, Janet Evans, Joan Burton, Janet McMahon, Lionel Dean, Francis Gallagher, Mary McKay, Harry John Teague, Michael Joseph Barnett, William Walker, Thomas Patrick Dowd, Lillian Rachel Beswick, Agnes Elizabeth Lambert, Albert Edward Hutfield.

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS:
Mass will be streamed from St Columba’s at 11.00am this Sunday 14th May 2023.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

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. Rex Carey, Margo Carey, Oskar Graca, Agata Holysz, Maia Martland, Manuel Regal, Mia Regal, Daniel Regal and Thea Shallcross.

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

Pray for the residents of Newry Park, Grange Road, Eversley Park, Bowyer’s Close, Ashfield Crescent, Glenside Close, and Longdale Drive.
For vocations to the ministry, Foundations for Ministry and those in current training.
For all lay people in the varied ministries in our Churches

OFFERTORY:
St Columba’s: Loose plate: £TBN Planned Giving: £TBN Average Weekly SO – £574.00;
St Theresa’s: Loose plate & Planned Giving: £TBN; Average weekly SO – £161.
THANK YOU for all your generous support.

WORLD COMMUNICATION DAY – 21^st MAY:
In recent years, the Holy Father has reflected on the building blocks of good communication. The heart, he says, is the common factor motivating us “to go and see” and “to listen”. It enables us, having listened, to “speak the truth in love”. Full message can be found here: cbcew.org.uk/wcd23-papal-message/
There will be a retiring collection for this next weekend at all Masses.

CHRISTIAN AID WEEK: 14th-20th May
Envelopes are available in the church porches and when filled can be placed in the normal collection baskets.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
14^th May – Ripon family for Camps International Humanitarian Collaboration Peru
21^st May – volunteers please
28^th May – volunteers please
Why not donate a little time to make tea and coffee to refresh the parishioners after 11:00 Mass on Sunday? You can make some money for your favourite charity, too. Call Margaret Curtis 01244 3184234 to book your date(s).

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

WHITE FLOWER APPEAL 2023:
The White Flower Appeal raised £105.24 at St Theresa’s last weekend. Thank you very much indeed for your generosity. The date for the appeal at St Columba’s has now been changed to 17/18 June.

PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL:
Your Pastoral Council met on Thursday 4^th May and covered a very full agenda. Members gave reports on the high priority issues as identified in the Parish Development Plan – notably progress with the new website, successful outreach work of the SVP and continued development of the youth group, children’s liturgy and social events. The main issue for discussion was the planning of a strategy to recruit more volunteers to support in all aspects of our churches’ work. More news to follow!

CONFIRMATIONS 2023:
We would like to congratulate the young people, especially a group of students from our school, who have been Confirmed last Wednesday 10^th of May at St. Francis Church, Chester. The chaplain celebrated with the newly confirmed students and their parents the following morning, sharing a delicious breakfast in the CHS conference room. May the Holy Spirit guide them all in their faith journey.

YOUTH GROUP:
The next youth group will be this Monday 15th May, 7pm to 8.30pm, at St Theresa’s. Last session we placed our hand painted ‘peace’ stones in the Peace Garden at St. Theresa’s and took a look around the church. This session we will do some planting in the peace garden, play some games, do a May activity and generally enjoy meeting up. All young parishioners from school year 5 and older are invited to join us.

CHRIST AND CREATION – FOUR TALKS & DICUSSIONS – MAY & JUN 2023:
This course looks at the startling but ancient truth that Jesus Christ as the Second Person of the Trinity has co-existed with the Father and the Holy Spirit from the beginning of time and has a central role in the work of Creation. The four talks are on Wednesday evenings at 7.30 pm, starting 17th May, the first two at St Werburgh’s and the second two at Chester Cathedral. Details on the Notice Boards and the Website. All invited to attend. More from David Savage 01244 380626.

CHESTER HALF MARATHON- 21st May 2023:
This takes place on Sunday 21st May and roads around Blacon will be closed. If you usually attend the 9.30am Mass at St Theresa’s please check the route as you may need to make alternative arrangements.

NHS AT ST THERESA’S:
The NHS will be in St Theresa’s car park on 23rd May and 21st June for Covid booster vaccinations for anyone over 75 years of age or anyone who is immunosuppressed. Health checks are also available. This will be from 10.30am to 4pm on all dates.

THE CHS 50^TH ANNIVERSARY MASS:
You are warmly invited to join the CHS celebration Mass on Friday 9^th of June, 11am at Chester Cathedral. If you are interested, please contact Mrs. Mallon by email at mallonk@christofidelis.org.uk.

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR YOUR DIARIES:
Sun 11th June Annual BBQ to celebrate the feast of St Columba
Thurs 27th July Coach trip to York. There’s a sheet in the front of both churches to enter your name to reserve a seat. £20 a ticket, departs St Columba’s at 09:00am and St Theresa’s at 09:15am.

SAVE THE DATE – SATURDAY 24^THJUNE:
There is a day of reflection, prayer and discernment about your role and mission in the Church on Saturday 24^th June 2023 from 10am-5pm at St Columba’s Church Hall. More details to follow.

Thought for the week Music can change the world. Beethoven.

We’re all in this together: Over the last weeks we can see how much music can play in our lives, from the Coronation music, the marching bands, the coronation concert, street parties and Eurovision. “United in music”, one of the slogans of the Eurovision. Bringing people and countries together. Liverpool, for the Eurovision is a little bit of the Ukraine. Where words fail, music speaks. Music can take you to another place, can recall memories. It has strong connections. Our community and Cheshire community continue to help those who flee from conflict. Music is an important uniter, be it memories, people and places. Enjoy the music wherever you are.

Resources You can sign up to the Councils cost of living support newsletter via their web site and or check out their current support on their web site at https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/housing-benefit-council-tax/cost-of-living-support

Newsletter subscription Do you want your newsletter delivered directly to your inbox electronically? If so, subscribe via our web page on https://sscolumbaandtheresa.co.uk/ Front page bottom right – subscribe button.

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Nuala Keegan, Church Office, 01244 624019, Email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com
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.

VATICAN II COURSE:
Thank you to the many people who have been in touch to say how helpful they find the reflections on Vatican II. We continue Part III on The Church by asking the question: ‘Who is the Church?’ The relevant podcast and handout are now available on the website; dioceseofshrewsbury.org in the section on ‘News and Events’. For any information contact Barbara; barbara.davies@dioceseofshrewsbury.org or Tel: 07730 526821.

RETROUVAILLE: a programme for Couples struggling in their marriages.
Retrouvaille is a programme to support couples who have difficulties in their marriage. For confidential information about ‘Retrouvaille’ or to register for the next programme commencing with a Virtual weekend on 6 – 9 July 2023 or a Face to Face weekend in Welwyn Garden City on 13-15 October 2023, call or text 07887 296983 or 07973 380443 or email retrouvailleukinfo@gmail.com – or visit www.retrouvaille.org.uk

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER:
21st May Edition will be compiled by Rebecca Vaughan, phone:01244 318632, E-mail: 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 17th MAY

Newsletter 7 May 2023

5 May 2023 By amos

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

7th MAY 2023

Sat 6 May
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm	Bart Bradshaw RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm	Eileen Thornber RIP

Sun 7 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am	Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am	The Parish

Mon 8 May
St. Theresa’s		Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am	Priests’ Intentions

Tue 9 May		Day of Special Prayer for Sexual Abuse
St. Theresa’s		Anthony Baker RIP
St. Columba’s		The Parish

Wed 10 May
St. Theresa’s		Private Intentions
St. Columba’s	9.30am	Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am	Novena Prayers
	10.30am	The Parish

Thu 11 May
St. Theresa’s		Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s		Private Intentions

Fri 12 May
St. Theresa’s		Margaret Mary Collins RIP
St. Columba’s		Margaret Mary Collins RIP

Sat 13 May
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm	Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm	Clare Graham RIP

Sun 14 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am	Mae Dunne’s 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 Theresa’s at 9.30am. this Sunday 7^th May 2023.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers Claire Graham, Margaret Collins, Margaret Finnegan, Ron Wright, Stuart Worrall and Tom Groom. May the Lord console their families and friends.

ANNVERSARIES:
Maureen Christine John, Ann Melia, Brenda Gertrude Onions

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

FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONS – St Columba’s
On Sunday 14th May and Sunday 21st May at the 11.00a.m. Mass, 10 children will be making their First Holy Communions. The central benches in church will be reserved for the children and their families on these occasions.

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

The residents of Churchward Close, The Wien, Mickle Trafford, Woodside Road, Oakfield Rd, Highfield Road and Foxcote Close.
For the hospitals in this area: the Countess and Wirral & West 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.
For all those involved in the Countess of Chester Hospitals’ Chaplaincy.

5th SUNDAY SERVICE – CHURCHES TOGETHER UPTON
Thank you to the helpers and all those parishioners from St Columba’s who attended the Fifth Sunday Service last week. We had an excellent turnout to welcome our neighbours for our shared worship. Thank you all.

OFFERTORY:
St Columba’s: Loose plate: £362.12. Planned Giving: £107.50 Average Weekly SO – £574.00;
St Theresa’s: Loose plate & Planned Giving: £233.50; Average weekly SO – £161.
THANK YOU for all your generous support.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
7^th May – volunteers please
14^th May – volunteers please
Why not donate a little time to make tea and coffee to refresh the parishioners after 11:00 Mass on Sunday? You can make some money for your favourite charity, too. Call Margaret Curtis 01244 3184234 to book your date(s).

WHITE FLOWER APPEAL 2023:
The Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC) will be holding its annual appeal this weekend at St Theresa’s. SPUC wants a world where abortion is unthinkable and is raising awareness of the widespread problem of abortion coercion. According to an independent poll, 87% of GPs are concerned that the Government’s “pills by post” scheme leaves women vulnerable to coerced abortion. SPUC is calling on the Prime Minister to condemn this tragedy.

FLORAL CELEBRATION FOR THE CORONATION:
Holy Ascension Church, Upton continues this Sunday 7th May 2pm – 4pm and Monday 8th May 10am – 4pm

CONFIRMATIONS 2023:
The date is Wednesday 10^th May, 7.00 pm, at St Francis.

ST PIO PRAYER GROUP :
The next meeting is on 11th May in Flat 5, Abbots Court, Eversley Park, Chester CH2 2DY starting at 2pm. Everyone is welcome.

CHRISTIAN AID WEEK: 14th-20th May
Envelopes are available in the church porches and when filled can be placed in the normal collection baskets

YOUTH GROUP:
The next youth group will be on Monday 15th May, 7pm to 8.30pm, at St Theresa’s. Last session we placed our hand painted ‘peace’ stones in the Peace Garden at St. Theresa’s and took a look around the church. Watch this space for what we will be doing next month! All young parishioners from school year 5 and older are invited to join us.

THE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL 50^TH ANNIVERSARY MASS:
You are warmly invited to join the CHS celebration Mass on Friday 9^th of June, 11am at Chester Cathedral. If you are interested, please contact Mrs. Mallon by email at mallonk@christofidelis.org.uk. There are a limited number of spaces available.

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR YOUR DIARIES
Sun 11th Jun Annual BBQ to celebrate the feast of St Columba
Thurs 27th July Coach trip to York

HIGHLIGHT FROM THE HIGH:
Last week, groups of students from many Catholic Schools across the Diocese gathered at St. Ambrose College for a morning of prayer and reflection, preparing for the upcoming Solemnity of Pentecost. In one of the activities, the students have been writing beautiful cards that will be sent to parishioners in the Diocese. They have also made paper lanterns representing Jesus’ light, for which the students committed to bring it to people as a symbol of spreading the Good News.

Thought for the week: On Tuesday 9 May the Church in England and Wales marks a Day of Prayer for Victims and Survivors of Abuse. We are invited not only to prayer for them, but listen to their voice and learn about how the Church is responding to them. The Northampton Diocese has prepared a Prayer for Healing & Reconciliation
Praise to you Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the source of all consolation and hope. Be the refuge and guardian of all who suffer from abuse and violence.
Comfort them and send healing for their wounds of the body, soul and spirit. Help us all and make us one with you in your love for justice as we deepen our respect for the dignity of every human life.
Giver of peace, make us one in celebrating your praise, both now and forever. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
“Jesus made the crowds welcome and talked to them about the kingdom of God; and he cured those who were in need of healing.” cf. Matthew 4: 123

THANK YOU CONOR & CARINA:
Conor and Carina de Souza will be stepping down as altar servers after 6 faithful years of serving. Conor and Carina have been regular servers at the 6:30pm Saturday mass at St Columba’s. We are grateful to them and their parents for their service and support and wish them all the best in the future.
If anyone is thinking of taking up altar serving, please contact Richard Curtis: 07787782255

Resources: For more information on the Day of Prayer for victims and Survivors of Abuse and to see how the church is responding to the suffering of victims and survivors of abuse in the Church follow the above link.

PLANTS WANTED:
As we come into Spring if you are doing any gardening and find you have some spare bedding plants, the Peace Garden would love to give them a home. Please leave them in the Peace Garden at St Theresa’s or outside of the garage. Thank you.

HEALTH AND WELLBEING WALK:
Every Monday 10:00a.m. for 10:30a.m. Health and Wellbeing Walk sponsored by St Theresa’s and the URC. For more information ring Brendan Doyle on: 07484353841 or Ann Francis on 01244 959061.

DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO THE HOLY LAND:
8^th – 14^th February 2024. For more information please see https://www.dioceseofshrewsbury.org/diocesan-pilgrimage-to-the-holy-land-2024/
Any questions regarding the pilgrimage should be directed to Father David Long: longdv1@aol.com

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER:
14^th May Edition will be compiled by Alison Wrigglesworth Phone:01244 382457, E-mail: 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 10th MAY

Newsletter 30 April 2023

27 April 2023 By amos

FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

30^th APRIL 2023

Saturday 29^th April
St. Theresa’s 5.00pm Vera Joyce RIP
St. Columba’s 6.30pm Frank Stone Jnr

Sunday 30^th April- World Day of Prayer for Vocations
St. Theresa’s       9.30am      James Casey RIP
St. Columba’s 11.00am      The Parish
St Columba’s   4.30pm    CTU Fifth Sunday Service

Monday 1^st May- Special Day of Prayer for Human Work
St. Theresa’s Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s 10.30am David Walpole A

Tuesday 2^nd May-St Anthanasius B,D
St. Theresa’s Private Intention
St. Columba’s Priests’ Ints

Wednesday 3^rd May-SsPhilip & James, Ap
St Theresa’s                           Mary Lally RIP
St Columba’s     9.30am      Exposition of Blessed Sacrament
                            10.15am   Novena Prayers
                            10.30am   Claire Graham RIP

Thursday 4^th May-The English Martyrs
St. Theresa’s Private Intention
St Columba’s Private Intention

Friday 5^th May
St. Theresa’s 10.00am Sarah (Sally)Gordyk RIP
St. Columba’s Oscar & Lastenia Payne

Saturday 6^th May
St. Theresa’s 5.00pm Bart Bradshaw RIP
St. Columba’s 6.30pm Eileen Thornber RIP

Sunday 7^th May
St. Theresa’s 9.30am Parishioners’ Ints
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 6.30pm. this Saturday 29 April 2023.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers Claire Graham, Ron Wright, Margaret Collins and Gerald O’Hanlon. May the Lord console their families and friends.

ANNVERSARIES:
Mary Lally, John Bond, David John McGlown.

WEDDINGS, BAPTISMS AND FUNERALS:
Please contact one of the Parish Offices to make your arrangements.
We welcome Elis Siobhan Bowl and her family to our community this weekend. May Our Lord bless and guide her always.

YOUTH GROUP:
Next youth group will be on Monday 15th May, 7pm to 8.30pm, at St Theresa’s. Last session we placed our hand painted ‘peace’ stones in the Peace Garden at St. Theresa’s and took a look around the church. Watch this space for what we will be doing next month! All young parishioners from school year 5 and older are invited to join us.

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

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

OFFERTORY:
St Columba’s: Loose plate: £424.14. Planned Giving: £180.00 Average Weekly SO – £574.00; Sunday Morning Coffee £24.
St Theresa’s: Loose plate & Planned Giving: £343.83; Average weekly SO – £161.
Thursday Badminton £140
Chester & E. Port Keralla Christian Community £150
THANK YOU for all your generous support.

THE WHITE FLOWER APPEAL on behalf of the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC) will take place in
St Theresa’s 6/7 May
St Columba’s 13/14 May
Your prayers and generosity will be much appreciated.

PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL MEETING
The next meeting is on Thursday 4^th May at 7pm in the Newman Room at St Columba’s.

HEALTH AND WELLBEING WALK
Every Monday 10:00a.m. for 10:30a.m. Health and Wellbeing Walk sponsored by St Theresa’s and the URC. For more information ring Brendan Doyle on: 07484353841 or Ann Francis on 01244 959061.

CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
Highlight from the High: Last week, the CHS held the first ‘Vintage Shop’ event in the school Hall for all the Y11 students to find the dress/suit for Prom Night. A large number of students and their parents came along, and they had the chance to browse and try on a selection of stunning dresses and sleek suits, whilst they enjoyed drinks and delicious snacks. It was lovely to see their faces when they found the perfect outfit!

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN UPTON
St Columba’s will be hosting the Fifth Sunday Service at 4.30pm TODAY Sunday 30 April. The theme will be “Living the Way of Christ”. As part of our commitment to closer engagement with other faith communities all parishioners are warmly invited to attend and welcome our neighbours. Thank you. LIVING THE SYNOD!

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
30^th Apr – volunteers please
7^th May – volunteers please
14^th May – volunteers please
Why not donate a little time to make tea and coffee to refresh the parishioners after 11:00 Mass on Sunday? You can make some money for your favourite charity, too. Call Margaret Curtis 01244 3184234 to book your date(s).

LIVE SCREENING OF THE CORONATION, St Columba’s Hall
King Charles III coronation will be screened live in St Columba’s Hall on 6^th May 2023. We will welcome parishioners who would like to watch this historic event communally, from late morning onwards on the big day. We will provide tea and coffee followed by sandwiches and cake for lunch. We need to know the approx. number, to cater accordingly, so please put you name down on the sheet in the FRONT PORCH of either church.

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR YOUR DIARIES
Sat 6th May Screening of the Coronation on the big screen in St Columba’s Church Hall
Sun 11th Jun Annual BBQ to celebrate the feast of St Columba
Thurs 27th July Coach trip to York

CONFIRMATIONS 2023:
The date is Wednesday 10^th May, 7.00 pm, at St Francis.

NHS AT ST THERESA’S:
The NHS will be in St Theresa’s car park on Saturday 13 May, 23 May and 21 June for Covid booster vaccinations for anyone over 75 years of age or anyone who is immunosuppressed. Health checks are also available. This will be from 10.30am to 4pm on all dates.

Thought for the week “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” Martin Luther King Jr.

We’re all in this together The Big Help Out is one of the official projects of the forthcoming Coronation Weekend and it is an initiative aiming to promote, champion and showcase volunteering. Building on the volunteer phenomenon seen during the pandemic, it aims to inspire a new generation of volunteers by making it easy for everyone to recognise opportunities and get involved.

Volunteering can take many forms, a little like a good amateur dramatics show, there is so much that goes on behind the scenes that make the whole; from scene painters, wardrobe, makeup, lighting, sound, script, programme sellers etc, all a bit like our church community, we have gardeners, newsletter editors, web site workers, tea & coffee makers, church openers, collection counters, cleaners, flower arrangers etc. the list goes on and we really need people to help out and keep the church and its community working. Volunteering is so important and we would encourage everyone to take part. The more hands we have to help, the lighter the load.

Resources If you are interested in volunteering or finding out more about the ‘Big Help Out’ visit the official website at: thebighelpout.org.uk or nearer to home, like all good organisations we are always on the look out for people to help us run the day to day work of our parish, speak to one of our priests, church secretaries or member of the Pastoral Council, we have a variety of opportunities, some taking less than an hour every few weeks, other a little longer. You decide how much you want to commit to and we will find you that opportunity!

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.

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH REAR DOOR
This door is not opened on Saturday evening for security reasons. Last Sunday morning the door was found to be unlocked. The apparent explanation is that someone left via that door after Mass on Saturday (as it is an emergency exit door it opens simply by pushing from the inside) but it was not then closed properly so it remained open all night and left the church vulnerable to intruders. PLEASE may we ask that you do not leave the church by the rear exit on Saturday evenings unless there is an event in the hall such as a cake sale in which case arrangements will have been made for the door to be unlocked and then locked. Thank you.

RETROUVAILLE: a programme for Couples struggling in their marriages.
Help Your Marriage – Do you feel alone? Are you frustrated or angry with each other? Do you argue … or have you just stopped talking to each other? Does talking about it only make it worse? Retrouvaille is a programme to support couples who have difficulties in their marriage. It brings a positive focus, new hope and helps nourish and grow your marriage. Tens of thousands of couples headed for divorce have successfully saved their marriages by attending and using the tools provided. The programme helps spouses uncover or re-awaken the love, trust and commitment that originally brought them together. It helps them through difficult times whether they are disillusioned or in deep misery. There is no group therapy or group work. For confidential information about ‘Retrouvaille’ or to register for the next programme commencing with a Virtual weekend on 6 – 9 July 2023 or a Face to Face weekend in Welwyn Garden City on 13-15 October 2023, call or text 07887 296983 or 07973 380443 or email retrouvailleukinfo@gmail.com – or visit www.retrouvaille.org.uk

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER:
30^th April Edition will be compiled by Muriel Green, phone: 01244 383836, E-mail: 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 3^rd MAY

Newsletter 23 April 2023

22 April 2023 By amos

THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER

23RD APRIL 2023

Saturday 22nd April
St. Theresa’s 5.00pm Ruth O’Donnell RIP
St. Columba’s 6.30pm Brian & Joyce Webster

Sunday 23^rd April
St. Theresa’s 9.30am Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s 11.00am Phillip G Francis
St Columba’s 12.30pm Baptism – Elis Siobhan Bowl

Monday 24^th April – St George, M
St. Theresa’s Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s 10.30am Ron Wright RIP

Tuesday 25^th April – St Mark, Ev. Feast
St. Theresa’s Private Intention
St. Columba’s 11.00am Req. Mass – Margaret Finnegan RIP

Wednesday 26^th April
St Theresa’s                        KayWatts RIP
St Columba’s                      9.30am Exposition of Blessed Sacrament
                          10.15am   Novena Prayers
                          10.30am   Priests’ Intentions

Thursday 27^th April
St. Theresa’s Private Intention
St Columba’s The Parish

Friday 28^th April
St. Theresa’s 10.00am Val Higgins Intentions
St. Columba’s Private Intention

Saturday 29^th April – St Catherine of Siena, V, D
St. Theresa’s 5.00pm Vera Joyce RIP
St. Columba’s 6.30pm Frank Stone Jnr

Sunday 30^th April
St. Theresa’s 9.30am James Casey RIP
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 6.30pm. this Saturday 22nd April 2023.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers Claire Graham, Margaret Collins and Margaret Finnegan. May the Lord console their families and friends.
Margaret Finnegan’s Funeral is at 11.00am on Tuesday 25^th April at St Columba’s.

ANNVERSARIES:
John Bernard Douggie, Michael Thornber, Carol Anne Murray, Alice Harvey

YOUTH GROUP:
Next youth group will be on Monday 15th May, 7pm to 8.30pm, venue to be confirmed. Last session we placed our hand painted ‘peace’ stones in the Peace Garden at St. Theresa’s and took a look around the church. Watch this space for what we will be doing next month! All young parishioners from school year 5 and older are invited to join us.

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

the residents of Abbots Park, Milbourne Close, Neston Drive, Onslow Road, Springwood Close, Overwood Lane and Melverley Drive.
Sewing Groups.

OFFERTORY:
St Columba’s: Loose plate: £424.14. Planned Giving: £180.00 Average Weekly SO – £574.00; Sunday Morning Coffee £24.
St Theresa’s: Loose plate & Planned Giving: £433.70; Average weekly SO – £161.
THANK YOU for all your generous support.

PLANNED GIVING ENVELOPES:
Envelopes for the new financial year are available to collect from the back porch in St Columba’s and the front porch in St. Theresa’s.

HOLY PLACES – SECOND COLLECTION
There will be a seond collection at St Columba’s this weekend for the Holy Places. Your generosity is much appreciated.

CHESTER MALE VOICE CHOIR – SPRING CONCERT
Chester Male Voice Choir returns to St Columba’s for it’s very popular Spring Festival concert on 28 April. They will share the stage with special guests Haydock Male Voice Choir who are celebrating their centernary this year. Tickets are £12 adults, £6 under 18s and can be bought either online at www.chestermalevoice.com or by calling John on 07894 509529. Details on the posters in church porch.

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN UPTON
St Columba’s will be hosting the Fifth Sunday Service at 4.30pm on Sunday 30 April. The theme will be “Living the Way of Christ”. As part of our commitment to closer engagement with other faith communities all parishioners are warmly invited to attend and welcome our neighbours. Thank you. LIVING THE SYNOD!

SAVE THE DATE – SATURDAY 24^THJUNE:
You are invited to a day of reflection, prayer and discernment about your role and mission in the Church on Saturday 24^th June 2023 from 10am-5pm at St Columba’s Church Hall. More details to follow.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
23^rd April – Catherine Jones for Share Shop
30^th April – volunteers please
7^th May – volunteers please
Why not donate a little time to make tea and coffee to refresh the parishioners after 11:00 Mass on Sunday? You can make some money for your favourite charity, too. Call Margaret Curtis 01244 3184234 to book your date(s).

THANK YOU:
To those who came over for tea, coffee and cake on Easter Sunday at St Columba’s, £60 was raised for the two charities, Rock of Joy Trust Uganda and Chifundo appeal Malawi, following cyclone Freddie’s impact.

CONFIRMATIONS 2023:
The date is Wednesday 10^th May, 7.00 pm, at St Francis.

GUIDE DOGS COFFEE MORNING:
At Upton Village Hall, Heath Road next Saturday 29th April 10 am – 12noon. Admission £2-50. Pay on the door. Please come along and meet a Guide Dog and puppies in training.

DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO THE HOLY LAND:
8^th – 14^th February 2024. For more information please see https://www.dioceseofshrewsbury.org/diocesan-pilgrimage-to-the-holy-land-2024/ Any questions regarding the pilgrimage should be directed to Father David Long: longdv1@aol.com

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK:
“What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” Jane Goodall.

WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER:
ChesterZoo nature reserve was on national TV recently; they were looking at the habitats for dormice and how their numbers had been improving because of the work that they had been doing. The nature reserve is free to enter and, if you are able to visit, well worth having a walk around. The TV programme was also looking at how we can all undertake activities of kindness to nature. For example, this could be the youth group planting sweet peas in the peace garden, the bird feeders and bug hotels that have been made and other such like activities and to log your work on the wild-britain.co.uk website. In parts of the borough, areas have already been set aside for wildflower meadows; it will be lovely to see how these progress. Please keep doing your bit for our environment, every little bit really helps.

RESOURCES: People aged 75 or above, or those with a weakened immune system can now book their spring COVID-19 vaccine. Book at http://cwac.co/v2ncv

WARNING : Emergency alert system, Sunday 23 April at 3pm. For those with 4G or 5G mobiles, your phones will receive a siren like alarm, receive a message on their home screens and vibrate for up to 10 seconds. This is a test of a nationwide emergency test in case of fire, flooding or extreme weather. Please do not be alarmed.

ADMINISTRATOR VANCANCY: A vacancy has arisen within the Inter-Diocesan Fuel team (IFM) for an Administrator, based at the curial office in Birkenhead. The post is full time 35 hours per week, salary: £20K to £22K depending on experience. For further details please see the Diocesan website https://www.dioceseofshrewsbury.org/latest-vacancies/ CV’s should be sent to Pauline McCulloch, recruitment@dioceseofshrewsbury.org Closing date for applications is Friday 28^th April 2023.

NEEDLES AND PINS – WEDNESDAY 26^TH APRIL
Everyone is welcome to come along to this friendly needlecraft group in St Columba’s Hall, between 2:00-4:00pm every fourth Wednesday of the month. Hope to see you.

HOSPICE QUIZ:
The recent Quiz held in the Hall raised £185 for the Hospice of he Good Shepherd. Many thanks to those of you who supported it and especially to those who helped with the refreshments.

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Nuala Keegan, Church Office, 01244 624019, Email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com.
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:
30^th April Edition will be compiled by Eileen Irwin, phone: 01244 371660, E-mail: 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 26^th APRIL

Newsletter 16 April 2023

15 April 2023 By amos

SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER

16TH APRIL 2023

Saturday 15^th April
St. Theresa’s 5.00pm Thomas Byrne RIP
St. Columba’s 6.30pm Theresa Bartliff

Sunday 16^th April
St. Theresa’s 9.30am Ann & Tony Mitchell’s Intentions
St. Columba’s 11.00am Mary & Mike Kiernan

Monday 17^th April
St. Theresa’s Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s 10.30am Priests’ Intentions

Tuesday 18^th April
St. Theresa’s Private Intention
St. Columba’s Parishioners’ Intentions

Wednesday 19^thApril
St Theresa’s     2.30pm Requiem Mass – Sarah (Sally) Gordyke
St Columba’s    9.30am Exposition of Blessed Sacrament
                          10.15am   Novena Prayers
                          10.30am  Enid & Jim Mason’s 70^th Wed.Ann

Thursday 20^th April
St. Theresa’s Priests’ Intentions
St Columba’s 10.30am Requiem Mass – Eileen Thornber

Friday 21^st April
St. Theresa’s 10.00am Bart Bradshaw
St. Columba’s 10.00am Requiem Mass – Mary Formston

Saturday 22^nd April
St. Theresa’s 5.00pm Ruth O’Donnell RIP
St. Columba’s 6.30pm Brian & Joyce Webster

Sunday 23^rd April
St. Theresa’s 9.30am Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s 11.00am Phillip G. Francis

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 11.00am. this Sunday 16^th April 2023.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers Sarah (Sally) Gordyke, Margaret Collins, Monica Littler, Eileen Thornber, Mary Formston and Margaret Finnegan. May the Lord console their families and friends.
Monica’s funeral is at St Francis on Monday 17 April at 2pm.
Sally’s Requiem Mass is at St Theresa’s on Wednesday 19^th April at 2.30pm.
Eileen Thornber’s Requiem Mass is on 20th April at 10.30am at St Columba’s.
Mary Formston’s Funeral is on 21^st April at 10.00am at St Columba’s.
Margaret Finnegan’s Funeral is at 11.00am 25^th April at St Columba’s

ANNVERSARIES:
Mary Teresa Kiernan, James Rogerson, Sheila Ann Gilfoyle, William (Jimmy) Hinde), Alice Harvey, Daniel Joseph Keegan, James Rogerson.

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

DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY – 16^TH APRIL 2023:
This is taking place at Holy Angels Church, Hale Barns. For further details, please see the poster.

PLANNED GIVING ENVELOPES:
Envelopes for the new financial year starting today, Sunday 9th April, are available to collect from the back porch in St Columba’s and the front porch in St. Theresa’s.

YOUTH GROUP:
Next youth group will be on Monday 17th April, 7pm to 8.30pm, at St. Theresa’s church. Last session we painted ‘peace’ stones and will be placing them in the Peace Garden at St. Theresa’s and taking part in other activities in the church and garden. All young parishioners from school year 5 and older are invited to join us.

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

Pray for the residents of Ethelda Drive, Dorfold Way, Sussex Road, Norris Road, Burton Road, Norman Way, Lynwood Road and Trinity Gardens.
For all who serve through the Anglican Diocese of Chester, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Shrewsbury and the United Reformed Church Mersey Synod.
For our churches that they may be filled with the Holy Spirit.

OFFERTORY:
St Columba’s: Loose plate: £447.22. Planned Giving: £180.00 Average Weekly SO – £574.00; Zumbathon £10.00;Wednesday Tai Chi £50.00.
St Theresa’s: Loose plate & Planned Giving: £; Average weekly SO – £161.
THANK YOU for all your generous support.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
16^th Apr – Kate Graham for the parish
23^rd Apr – Catherine Jones for the Share Shop
30^th Apr – volunteers please
Why not donate a little time to make tea and coffee to refresh the parishioners after 11:00 Mass on Sunday? You can make some money for your favourite charity, too. Call Margaret Curtis 01244 3184234 to book your date(s).

CONFIRMATIONS 2023:
The date is Wednesday 10^th May, 7.00 pm, at St Francis.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK “To see a world in a grain of sand and Heaven in a wildflower, hold infinity in the palm of your hand and eternity in an hour.” William Blake

WERE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER: Speaking to someone recently, they indicated that one of the family had been in hospital for an operation and that recovery was slow but improving. It was the little things that mattered to the patient now, such as being able to make their own cup of tea or being able to get out in the fresh air for short periods of time. It is easy sometimes to take what we have for granted, until it’s taken away from us. We are all amazing creations. Our hearts beat about 100,000 times a day, pumping around 2,000 gallons through over 60,000 miles of blood vessels in our bodies. The human body is a miracle and far more than numbers. Never be in too much of a hurry to notice the ordinary miracles that we are.

RESOURCES: We have local elections coming up on the 4 May and, for those of you who vote in person, you will need a photo ID. If you do not have an acceptable photo ID then you can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate online via the GOV.UK website, or by post by requesting a printed form from the Cheshire WEST and Chester Council elections team Democratic Services, Cheshire West and Chester Council, The Portal, Wellington Road, Ellesmere Port, CH65 0BA. The application deadline for a Voter Authority Certificate for 4 May elections is 5pm on 25 April 2023.

SVP MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT OFFICER (MSO) VACANCY:
The St Vincent de Paul Society would like to recruit a MSO for the Shrewsbury Diocese. A part time role (15 hours per week) working as part of the SVP Membership Team, to support member recruitment and development, provide general support for members and be the link between local Conferences and National Office. The role is home based but requires the ability to travel around the diocese to make recruitment appeals, work with existing groups, attend meetings and meet with interested parties where appropriate. Own transport essential and travel expenses are paid. For further information and details of how to apply, contact Lance Philpott, Head of Membership at lancep@svp.org.uk Closing date for applications is Sunday 16^th April 2023.

EASTER FLOWERS:
Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity with the Easter flower collection. I appreciate we are in difficult times but your donations will fund us until the end of the year. Thanks again.

PLANTS WANTED:
As we come into Spring if you are doing any gardening and find you may have some spare bedding plants, the Peace Garden would love to give them a home. Please leave them in the Peace Garden at St Theresa’s or outside of the garage. Thank you.

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Nuala Keegan, Church Office, 01244 624019, Email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com 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:
23^rd April Edition will be compiled by Amy O’Donnell, Phone: 07854 290897, E-mail: 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 19^th APRIL

Newsletter 14 May 2023

Newsletter 7 May 2023

Newsletter 30 April 2023

Newsletter 23 April 2023

Newsletter 16 April 2023

News and Events

Subscribe to receive our weekly newsletters direct to your inbox.

Key Contacts

Mass times

Newsletters and Bulletins

Online Giving