amos – Page 28

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

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.
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, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 9 April 2023

8 April 2023 By amos

EASTER SUNDAY

9^TH APRIL 2023

Saturday 8^th April – Easter Vigil (Holy Saturday)
St. Theresa’s NO MASS
St. Columba’s 8.00p.m. Easter Vigil.
The Parish Mass begins outside with the lighting of the fire.
Celebratory wine in the hall after Mass

Sunday 9^th April – Easter Sunday
St. Theresa’s 9.30a.m. Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s 11.00a.m. Private Intentions

Monday 10^th April – Monday of Easter Octave
St. Theresa’s Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s 10.30am Mary Formston

Tuesday 11^th April – Tuesday of Easter Octave
St. Theresa’s Private Intention
St. Columba’s Priests’ Intentions

Wednesday 12^th April – Wednesday of Easter Octave
St Theresa’s                                 Priests’ Intentions
St Columba’s         9.30a.m.     Exposition of Blessed Sacrament
                             10.15a.m.     Novena Prayers
                               10.30a.m.     Eileen Thornber RIP

Thursday 13^th April – Thursday of Easter Octave
St. Theresa’s Margaret Collins’ Intentions
St Columba’s The Parish

Friday14th April – Friday of Easter Octave
St. Theresa’s 10.00a.m. Kay Watts RIP
St. Columba’s Private Intention

Saturday 15^th April – Saturday of Easter Octave
St. Theresa’s 5.00p.m. Thomas Byrne RIP
St. Columba’s 6.30p.m. Theresa Bartliff

Sunday 16^th April – Second Sunday of Easter
St. Theresa’s 9.30a.m. Ann & Tony Mitchell’s Ints.
St. Columba’s 11.00a.m. Mike and Mary Kiernan

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

EASTER GREETING:
Fr William and Fr Desmond wish you all a happy and Holy Easter and thank you for your prayers and greetings.

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS:
Mass will be streamed from St Theresa’s at 9.30am. this Sunday 9^th April 2023.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers Eileen Thornber, Mary Formston and Margaret Finnegan. May the Lord console their families and friends. Eileen’s Requiem Mass is on 20th April at 10.30am at St Columba’s, Mary’s Funeral is on 21^st April at 10.00am at St Columba’s and Margaret’s Funeral is at 11.00am 25^th April at St Columba’s

ANNVERSARIES:
Henry Arthur (Harry) Harrison, Lt. Stewart Harrison, Angela Crowe, Philomena Pellegrini, Anne Hogan, Daniel Joseph Keegan.

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

PARISH OFFICES:
Both offices will be closed on Good Friday (7^th April) and Easter Monday (10^th April)

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

The residents of Essex Road, Deva Lane, Walnut Close, Palmerstone Close, Meadowside Mews, Highcliffe Avenue and Sherwood Road.
The Library, Pavilion and recreational areas in our community.
All adults and children that they will be safe as they enjoy leisure time.

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

OFFERTORY:
St Columba’s: (26.03.2023) Loose plate: £312.21; Planned Giving: £88.50; Average Weekly SO – £574.00; (02.04.2023) Loose plate: £315.17; Planned Giving: £86.20; Average Weekly SO – £574.00
St Theresa’s: Loose plate & Planned Giving: £259.32; Average weekly SO – £161.
THANK YOU for all your generous support.

EASTER CAKES and coffee after Easter Sunday Mass at St Columba’s – come and help us celebrate Easter, all proceeds to charity. Please don’t leave us to eat all the cakes!

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA:
9^th Apr – Alex Mosquera for Rock of Joy Trust, Uganda & Cyclone Freddy Malawi Fund
16th April – volunteers please
23^rd April – Catherine Jones for the Share Shop

CHARITY QUIZ:
In aid of the Hospice of the Good Shepherd. To be held in St Columba’s Hall at 7.00 p.m. on next Friday 14^th April. Admission £2.00. Teams of 4-6. Bring your own bottle, crisps etc. provided. Enquiries to 01244 383703.

ST PIO PRAYER GROUP:
The next meeting is on Thursday 13^th April, at 2pm in Flat 5, Abbots Court, Eversley Park, Chester CH2 2DY. Everyone is welcome.

RED MISSION BOXES:
If you have a Red Mission box for collection, please leave it in the sacristy of either Church.
For St. Columba’s: When counted, I can return your box to your home. Thank you, Margaret Curtis 01244 318424.
For St. Theresa’s: People can leave them in the sacristy for me to collect or call Sean Baker 07920174529.

LIVE SCREENING OF THE CORONATION:
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.

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

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK:
The very first Easter taught us this: “that life never ends and love never dies.” – Kate McGahan

WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER:
Having watched the end of the film “Wonder” the other day, the main character finishes the film winning an award and making a speech about inclusion. He states, “that no one’s ordinary and we all deserve a standing ovation at least once in our lives”. Looking back over the last few years, I’m sure we can agree that ordinary is not what it has been, but we are here to tell the story and continue moving forward. We are all extraordinary in our own ways and sometimes we forget that. So, here’s an ovation to you all. Wishing all of our community a very happy Easter. And here’s to a lovely weekend and a bit of sunshine.

RESOURCES:
New wellbeing walk on Thursdays 10am, meet at the noticeboard at the entrance to Lime Wood Fields from Fairfield Road, off Kingsway, Newton. Slow walk for about 30-45 mins. Good paths.

PLANTS WANTED:
If you are doing any gardening over this Easter weekend 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.

CHRISTIAN AID:
“Talking Climate Justice Tour” on Friday 14th April 7.00p.m. -9.00p.m. in St Mary’s without the Walls Church Centre, Handbridge. Free admission.

RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS – At the Easter Vigil, Anil, Lindsay and John together will receive the sacraments of Confirmation and the Eucharist and thereby enter fully into the life of the Church. Please keep them in your prayers.

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.

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.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER:
16^th April Edition will be compiled by Harry Sweeney, phone: 01244 327462, E-mail: harrysweeney45@gmail.com. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that items are emailed or phoned to the compiler by 9.00a.m. on WEDNESDAY 12^TH APRIL

Newsletter 2 April 2023

1 April 2023 By amos

PALM SUNDAY OF THE PASSION OF OUR LORD
2^nd APRIL 2023

Saturday 1^st April
St. Theresa’s 5.00pm Kay Watts RIP
St. Columba’s 6.30pm Edwin Edwards. Ann

Sunday 2^nd April- Palm Sunday of the Passion of Our Lord
St. Theresa’s 9.30am Parishioners’ Ints
St. Columba’s 11.00am The Parish

Monday 3^rd April
St. Theresa’s David Collingborn RIP
St. Columba’s 10.30am Priests’ Ints

Tuesday 4^th April
St. Theresa’s Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s Keith Skinner

Wednesday 5^th April
St Theresa’s Private Intention
St Columba’s 10.30am Judy Cartwright RIP

Holy Thursday 6^th April – Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper
St. Theresa’s 5.00pm Margaret Collins Ints.
St Columba’s 6.00pm Mary Ible 100^th Birthday

Good Friday 7^th April
St. Theresa’s    11.15am      Stations of the Cross
St Theresa’s       3.00pm      Celebration of the Lord’s Passion
St. Columba’s 11.00am      Stations of the Cross
St Columba’s     3.00pm      Celebration of the Lord’s Passion

Saturday 8^th April – Easter Vigil (Holy Saturday)
St. Theresa’s NO MASS
St. Columba’s 8.00pm Easter Vigil. The Parish
Mass begins outside with the lighting of the fire.
Celebratory wine in the hall after Mass

Sunday 9^th April
St. Theresa’s 9.30am Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s 11.00am Private Ints

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS:
Mass will be streamed from St Theresa’s at 9.30am. this Sunday 2^nd April 2023 and next Sunday 9^th April.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

GOOD FRIDAY STATIONS
We are hoping to re-introduce the Family Stations of the Cross in St. Columba’s at 11am on Good Friday, 7^th April. To do this we need some young people to volunteer to read a short passage. If anyone is interested, would they please speak to me in Hall after Mass or e mail me suecarr78@btinternet.com

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers Eileen Thornber. May the Lord console her families and friends. Eileen’s Requiem Mass is on 20 April at 10.30am at St Columba’s.

ANNVERSARIES:
Elizabeth Mary (Beryl) Harrison, Lt Stewart Harrison, Sandra Mary Erskine, John (Jack) George Cross, David Carty, Philomena Pellegrinni.

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 Sunday 9 April are available to collect from the back porch in St Columba’s and the front porch in St. Theresa’s.

CYCLONE FREDDY IMPACT ON MALAWI
For further information please see poster on the noticeboard.

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:

The residents of Kingsway, Dickson’s Drive, Brookfield Drive, Provan way, Saughall Road, Westbourne Road & Cranleigh Crescent.
For Worship Groups and all who plan services.
For our worship that it is vibrant, spiritual and prayerful.

OFFERTORY:
St Columba’s: Loose plate: TBC; Planned Giving: £TBC; Average Weekly SO – £574.00;
St Theresa’s: Loose plate & Planned giving £259.32; Average weekly SO – £161
THANK YOU for all your generous support.

EASTER FLOWERS:
At St Theresa’s please put your donation in an envelope marked “FLOWERS” Thank you in advance for your continued support.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA:
2 April – Chris & Elizabeth for Tombola
9 April – Alex Mosquera for Rock of Joy Trust, Uganda & Cyclone Freddy Malawi Fund
16 April – volunteers please
23 April – Catherine Jones for the Share Shop

CAFOD:
A total of £490 was raised for our latest appeal. Thank-you very much for your continued generosity

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.

EXTRAORDINARY MINISTERS OF THE EUCHARIST & READERS
We welcome Chibuko Loveth, Akubue Nnaemeka, Elizabeth Mair & Emike Nasamu who are our new ministers and thank them for attending last week’s training.

RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS –
At the Easter Vigil, Anil, Lindsay and John together will receive the sacraments of Confirmation and the Eucharist and thereby enter fully into the life of the Church. Please keep them in your prayers.

ONLINE COURSE ON VATICAN II: PART III THE CHURCH.
The first podcast on Lumen Gentium is now available at dioceseofshrewsbury.org. together with 3 handouts for downloading or printing: An Introduction to LG; A visual presentation of its 8 chapters; An outline of issues addressed in it. A leaflet outlining the content of all of the podcasts in the series is available in the parish. Should you have difficulty accessing this material, any questions or reflections, please don’t hesitate to call Barbara Davies on 07730 526821.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK “God loves each of us as if there were only one of us” – Augustine

WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER: Dare I ask, but how are the Lenten promises getting along? Has it got easier as time has gone on, or harder? Has that change in habit allowed you some time to reflect and prepare for the Lords resurrection and the celebration of Easter? The Bishop of Portsmouth said recently that “Lent is a spiritual springtime. It’s a joyful season, as the Roman Liturgy puts it, a time when God wants to give us new grace and new life”. So even if things haven’t been going quite to plan, there’s still time and the idea of Lent as a spiritual springtime providing new grace and new life is a lovely image don’t you think?

RESOURCES Teenagers in the Upton area – Teen chat at the Pavillion 6pm to 8pm Thursday 13 April. Come along and tell the Parish Council what you would like to see at the QEII playing fields (Wealstone Lane playing fields).

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

VACANCY: SVP Membership Support Officer (MSO)
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 April 2023.

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:
9^th April 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 TUESDAY 4^th April

Newsletter 26 March 2023

25 March 2023 By amos

FIFTH WEEK OF LENT
26^th MARCH 2023

Saturday 25^th March – The Annunciation of The Lord
St. Theresa’s 5.00pm Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s 6.30pm Acquiles Paras RIP

Sunday 26^th March – 5^th Week of Lent
St. Theresa’s 9.30am Pat McKenzie RIP
St. Columba’s 11.00am Veronica Comerford RIP

Monday 27^th March
St. Theresa’s Private Intention

St. Columba’s 10.00am Stations of the Cross
10.30am Phillip A Francis

Tuesday 28^th March
St. Theresa’s Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s Parishioners’ Intentions

Wednesday 29^th March

St Theresa’s                        Private Intention
St Columba’s      9.30am    Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
                          10.15am Novena Prayers
                          10.30am    James Traynor RIP

Thursday 30^th March
St. Theresa’s 9.30am Yr. 6 class mass in church
St Columba’s Private Intention

Friday 31^st March
St. Theresa’s       9.30am    Stations of the Cross
St. Theresa’s    10.00am    Sheila Brown RIP
St. Columba’s                     Ann-Marie Breen-Jones

Saturday 1^st April – Vigil of Palm Sunday
St. Theresa’s 5.00pm Kay Watts RIP
St. Columba’s 6.00pm Edwin Edwards (A)

Sunday 2^nd April – Palm Sunday The Passion of the Lord
St. Theresa’s 9.30am Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s 11.00am The Parish

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS:
Mass will be streamed from St Columba’s at 11am. this Sunday 26^th March 2023.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers Eileen Thornber and Pauline Ann Roberts. May the Lord console their families and friends. Kay’s Requiem Mass is on Friday 24 March at 1pm at St Theresa’s and Eileen’s Requiem Mass is on 20 April at 10.30am at St Columba’s. Pauline’s Requiem Mass was held on Tuesday 21^st March at St Columba’s.

ANNVERSARIES:
Maria Magdelena Cumberford, Stewart Harrison, James Philip Torde, Norman Roddy, Judith Mary Whitlow, Bridget Ann Puircell

CLOCKS GOING FORWARD!
If you are reading this on Sunday, we hope you have remembered to put your clocks forward last night.

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

LENTEN AND EASTER SERVICES
Palm Sunday 2^nd April
St. Theresa’s      9.30am    Mass begins in the porch
St. Columba’s 11.00am    Mass begins outside front doors
Holy Thursday 6^th April
St. Theresa’s     5.00pm    Evening Mass of the Lord’s
St. Columba’s   6.00pm    Supper
Good Friday 7^th April
St. Columba’s 11.00am    Stations of the Cross
St. Theresa’s    11.15am    Stations of the Cross
St. Columba’s   3.00pm    Celebration of the Lord’s Passion
St. Theresa’s     3.00pm    Celebration of the Lord’s Passion
Easter Vigil (Holy Saturday) 8^th April
St. Columba’s   8.00pm   Mass begins outside with the lighting of the fire
Celebratory wine in the hall after Mass
Easter Sunday 9^th April
St. Theresa’s      9.30am
St. Columba’s 11.00am

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

The residents of Broadway West, Totland Grove, Derwent Road, Willow Drive, Naomi Close, Dentith Drive and Egerton Road.
For the Zoo and all who work there.
For a deeper awareness of our environment.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY:
The Children’s liturgy will take place this Sunday at St Columba’s 11am mass instead of Sunday 2nd April. We are always delighted to welcome new children AND adults from both Churches in our parish.

LOST PROPERTY:
A Sunday Missal was found after mass at St Columba’s last week. It is being kept in the lost property box in the office. Please call in to collect if this belongs to you. Thanks.

OFFERTORY:
St Columba’s: Loose plate: £313.54; Planned Giving: £81.15; Average Weekly SO – £574.00;
St Theresa’s: Loose plate & Planned giving TBC; Average weekly SO – £161
THANK YOU for all your generous support.

EASTER FLOWERS:
There will be a collection after both Masses this weekend at St. Columba’s to pay for flowers to decorate the Church over the Easter celebrations and for the year ahead Thank you in advance for your continued support.

CAFOD:
A total of £490 was raised for our latest appeal. Thank-you very much for your continued generosity.

LENTEN LUNCH – 30 MARCH
Churches Together in Upton is holding a Lenten Lunch (soup and sandwiches) at the United Reformed Church in Mill Lane , 12 noon – 1.00pm on Thursday 30 March. Donations to the Hospice of the Good Shepherd. All parishioners are warmly invited to drop in and show our commitment to closer engagement with our faith community neighbours – Live the Synod!

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA:
26^th Mar – Sue McCarthy for SVP
2^nd Apr – Chris & Elizabeth for Tombola
9^th Apr – Easter Sunday, volunteers
16^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).

Just a short message to thank the church community for their generosity last Saturday at the cake sale. £240 was raised!! for the children of the ‘Home of Peace.’

PILGRIMAGE TO WALSINGHAM:
We’re looking at the possibility of a pilgrimage to Walsingham but in order for this to go ahead it would depend on numbers. Please register your interest, either by phone or email with either of the church secretaries. Thank you.

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

RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS –
The Third Scrutiny for Anil will be celebrated this Sunday, at the 9.30 am Mass at St Theresa’s. This is the final Scrutiny in Anil’s preparation for his baptism at the Easter Vigil. Anil’s usual future place of worship will be at St Theresa’s church; St Theresa’s parishioners are encouraged to attend his baptism at St Columba’s, in witness and support.

At the Easter Vigil, Anil, Lindsay and John together will receive the sacraments of Confirmation and the Eucharist and thereby enter fully into the life of the Church. Please keep them in your prayers.

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.

Thought for the week: “In the Spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours.” —Mark Twain (I thought this was apt given the recent weather we have been having!)

We’re all in this together: Have any of you been watching Wild Isles on a Sunday evening (or via iPlayer) about the British Isles and its wildlife and habitats? There are some stunning shots of this country and its wildlife. It’s clear from the series which highlights not only the wonder but also the fragility and decline of our British wildlife and landscapes, that action is needed now. Three of the world’s largest conservation charities have launched a campaign to engage the public to take urgent action to halt natures loss within the UK. The WWF, The National Trust and RSPB are asking people to “go wild once a week”,. This could be as simple as planting wildflower seeds in a window box or green space, going vegetarian for one day a week, getting involved in local community projects or even writing to the country’s leaders to urge them to take action now. Check out the campaign and ideas to help, on Save our Wild Isles campaign

Resources: The parent plod – a free child and buggy friendly 30 minute gentle walk and talk, Mondays 13.00 starting at the friendly bench Countess of Chester Health Park. Aimed at parents, those who are pregnant, children and babies. Contact gemma.coccp@gmail.com to book a place.

Chester Ladies Choir: with guest musicians will present “Here Comes the Sun” in St Columba’s Church Hall on Saturday 1 April at 7.30pm. The programme of uplifting music to welcome the Spring sunshine includes such lovely pieces as Blue Skies, The Water of Tyne, City of Stars, A Million Dreams and Hail Holy Queen (Sister Act version). Tickets are £12 from www.jumblebee.co.uk or will probably be available on the door. Refreshments will be available to purchase. All proceeds will be for the Hospice of the Good Shepherd

CONFIRMATIONS 2023:
The Chester Parishes take it in turns to organise Confirmation. Last year it was St Columba’s and St Theresa’s, this year St Werburgh’s, St Clare’s and St Francis. The date is Wednesday 10^th May, 7.00 pm, at St Francis.

DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES 2023:
This years overland pilgrimage will depart on Thursday 27 July returning on Friday 4 August. Those pilgrims wishing to fly will depart from Liverpool airport on Friday 28 July returning on Thursday 3 August. More details, brochure and booking forms are available on the pilgrimage website http://www.shrewsburypilgrimage.co.uk. Young pilgrims (aged 16 – 22) who wish to join us in Lourdes and offer their time and energy to assist and serve the sick and elderly pilgrims are asked to contact Sandy Fairley at the Youth Mission Team (youth@dioceseofshrewsbury.org) for more details.

“LOVE THE STRANGER”
Cardinal Vincent Nicholls, as President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops, has welcomed this new report concerning migrants and refugees. He comments

“Love the Stranger draws together more than one hundred years of Catholic teaching to guide our response to migration in England and Wales today. While it does not propose detailed solutions to complex problems, it clearly calls for procedures which permit safe and controlled access and a fair hearing to those seeking asylum. Present arrangements in this country are dramatically lacking in both of these requirements.”

The full report can be seen via the Bishops’ Conference website: www.cbcew.org.uk/love-the-stranger

VOTIVE CANDLE LIGHTERS ST.COLUMBA’S
We are trying out some new re-chargeable electronic lighters to replace the gas candle lighters. They are the slim, red ones with a bendable neck. There is an on/off switch and a small silver button which turns them on. There is an illustration showing this on the wall above the candle stands. They may take a little getting used to so we would be grateful for your patience! Feedback to the parish office or to Pauline Rourke would be welcome.

VACANCY:
SVP Membership Support Officer (MSO) 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 April 2023.

SAINT JOHN OF GOD HOSPITALLER SERVICES (SJOG):
SJOG Homes for Ukraine provides online training for hosts and guests, transfer from the Polish-Ukrainian border, a welcome box for Ukrainian guests upon arrival, a multilingual team to support the needs of both parties, and thoroughly developed resources for both hosts and guests to help navigate the process. Additionally, we ensure support from local communities to make the experience as seamless and fulfilling as possible.

We will be holding a webinar for UK residents interested in hosting a Ukrainian guest or family under the Homes for Ukraine scheme on Wednesday, March 29, at 7 pm. You can find more details about the event here: https://fb.me/e/N9EtGqhe

Online course on Vatican II: Thank you to those who have been in touch to say how interesting/ informative/ helpful/ even ‘excellent’(!) you have found the first two podcasts. The next two on Divine Revelation are now available on the diocesan website at dioceseofshrewsbury.org. They are not time-bound and may be listened to any time. There are also 3 handouts for downloading or printing: An introduction to the document; A guided reading of the text; A suggested reading list for the whole course. A leaflet outlining the content of the podcasts is available in the parish. Should you have difficulty accessing this material, any questions or reflections, don’t hesitate to call Barbara Davies: 07730 526821.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER:
2^nd April edition will be compiled by Eileen Irwin Email: st.theresas@btinternet.com, Phone number: 01244 371660. 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 MARCH

Newsletter 23 April 2023

Newsletter 16 April 2023

Newsletter 9 April 2023

Newsletter 2 April 2023

Newsletter 26 March 2023

News and Events

Subscribe to receive our weekly newsletters direct to your inbox.

Key Contacts

Mass times

Newsletters and Bulletins

Online Giving