The month of February is dedicated to the Holy Family

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

16  FEBRUARY 2025

Sat 15 Feb
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Maureen & Michael Cheston
	9.30am		Syriac Orthodox Mass
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Patricia Duggan RIP
Sun 16 Feb			Day of Special Prayer for Racial Justice
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Jenny Casey’s Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Tom Laydon
	2.00pm		Kerala Catholic Community Mass in Syro-Malabar Rite
Mon 17 Feb			St Scholastica, V. Mem.
St. Theresa’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Eddie, Adam & Elwell Family
Tue 18 Feb
St. Theresa’s			Anne McCarthy RIP
St. Columba’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
Wed 19 Feb
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		Mary Jeffes
Thu 20 Feb
St. Theresa’s			Anne Wilding RIP
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Fri 21 Feb
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Margaret & Joseph Russell’s Wedding Anniversary
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Sat 22 Feb			Chair of St Peter, Ap
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Joe Blundell RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Eileen Hordley (Birthday Thanksgiving)
Sun 23 Feb
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Jenny Casey’s Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Richard Murphy, Altar Servers’ Enrolment
	2.00pm		Kerala Catholic Community Mass in Syro-Malabar Rite

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

ANNIVERSARIES
Eileen Thornber, Charles Edward Davis, George Thomas Noden, Elizabeth Mary Freeman.

POPE’S FEBRUARY PRAYER INTENTIONS
For February-For vocations to the priesthood and religious life. Let us pray that the ecclesial community might welcome the desires and doubts of those young people who feel a call to serve Christ’s mission in the priesthood and religious life. 

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

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

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS
Mass will be streamed at St Columba’s on Sunday 16 February at 11.00a.m. Cover is needed at both churches for occasions when Tim is unavailable.  The only requirement is you need to have an Iphone.  If you would be willing to help with this please contact one of the church offices.  Thank you.
 www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

CHURCH NEWS JUBILEE YEAR MESSAGE Jubilee Year: Working to translate hope into peace Pope Francis explains that this requires helping all those facing difficulties in life “to look to the future with hope,” which in turn involves supporting “initiatives and paths” that can help the poor and excluded to regain confidence “in themselves and society.” “The poor and the sick, the young and the elderly, migrants and displaced people, even those deprived of their freedom, must be at the centre of our considerations,” he insisted, “so that no one is excluded and everyone’s human dignity is respected.” Christ said, “What you did to the least of these my brethren, that you did to me,”. This invites Christians to recognize the image of God in every man and woman, who are called to be “brothers and sisters” in the human family, and children of God. Possible focus for our prayer: What do I do to help the least of my brethren? Taken from the Vatican website, reported by Christopher Wells

PARISH OFFERTORY
Loose Plate: £514.31; Planned Giving £227.82; Average weekly SO £555.00. Candles: £28.00.

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for:

• the residents of Shepherds Lane, Thornton Drive, The Beeches, Windermere Avenue, Barnes Close, Morgan Close, & Blake Close.
• For the Growth Action Planning in our churches, Commitment for Life, Vision4Life and Fresh Expressions

JUBILEE PRAYER
There are copies of the Jubilee prayer available for you take a copy

SPUC
There will be a retiring collection at St Columba’s this weekend of 15^th/16^th February for the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children.  St Theresa’s has previously  held theirs.

LIFT NEEDED
Are you able to offer Fr Peter a lift from St Columba’s back to St Theresa’s after the 6.30pm Saturday evening Mass and the 11am Sunday morning Mass.  This is only every other weekend until Fr Peter passes his British driving test.  Please contact St Columba’s office if you are willing to help.

WELCOME TO OUR PARISH
If you are NEW TO THE PARISH, please complete a Parish Registration Form and send (or bring) it to either parish office to let us know that you are here and enable us to welcome you. The form can be completed and submitted online or downloaded and printed out. Instructions are on the form, which can also be found in the front porches of both churches and on the website www.sscolumbaandtheresa.co.uk under the I’m New tab. Thank you.

Coffee and tea (and sometimes cakes) are served in the Hall after the 11 am mass at St Columba’s and the 9.30 mass at St Theresa’s and after the 10.30 mass at St Columba’s on Monday and Wednesday. You will be most welcome to join us.

Lyn Coyle, Communications Group

MRS GRIFFITHS LEAVING MASS – 13 FEBRUARY
Thanks to everyone who came along to this last week, We wish her a long and happy retirement.

PARISH RETREAT
There will be a Parish retreat on Saturday 15^th March from 10a.m – 1p.m. in St Columba’s Hall. All invited. This will be on: “Understanding the biblical roots of a Jubilee year and what it means for this current Jubilee of 2025”.

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS
As part of our Parish Development Plan the Pastoral Council would like to offer transport to Mass for any parishioners who may require this.  Before doing so we need to gather a small team of volunteer drivers who would be willing to undertake this service.  Perhaps this could be a personal commitment in recognition of the Jubilee Year?   It is not expected that driving duty would occur very frequently so if you think you could help please contact one of the Parish offices with your details. Thanks to all. 
Nuala Keegan, on behalf of the Pastoral Council.

CHESTER & ELLESMERE PORT KERALA CATHOLIC COMMUNITY
Every Sunday at 2.00p.m., the Chester & Ellesmere Port Kerala Catholic Community now have a Mass in St Columba’s in the Syro – Malabar Rite. All are welcome.

MALANKARA JACOBITE SYRIAC ORTHODOX COMMUNITY CHESTER
Every other Saturday morning this group have a Mass at 9.30am at St Theresa’s.

 SPECIAL ANNIVERSARIES
If anyone has a special wedding anniversary this year, 25^th, 40^th, 50^th or 60^th please inform one of the church offices in order to receive your invitation from the Diocese to a special Mass later this year.

FRIENDSHIP THURSDAY: NEW FRIENDSHIP GROUP
It became clear to the Communications group that many people would welcome further opportunities to get out of the house and meet others. This would also be helpful to those new to the parish. The new Friendship Thursday group hopes to meet some of this need. It will begin once a month, beginning on Thursday, March 6^th in St Columba’s Hall, from 1.30-3.30. There will be refreshments, a chance to chat and get to know others, opportunities to play Dominoes, Scrabble or Cards for those who want to. There will also be a free book swap where you bring one/take one and we hope to have guest speakers to talk about their interest or skill. Any adult is welcome and if you feel nervous about coming alone, bring a friend! It will be relaxed, friendly and welcoming. Come and give it a try!
For information ring Lyn 07735574397

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK, Where there is love, there is joy. Mother Teresa

THANK YOU – to everyone who has donated clothing and bedding to Chester Aid to the Homeless, a massive thank you, the donations have been much appreciated.  Our stores are currently full and we are unable to take any additional donations at the moment.  

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Magdalena Bukowska, St. Columba’s Church Office, phone: 01244 624019, email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com. Office hours Monday to Friday 9a.m. to 2p.m.
Hall availability can be checked by looking at St Columba’s Church website – section for Church Hall gives a calendar of events in the Hall. Then contact Magdalena Bukowska on 01244 624019 for enquires within the office hours stated above or email columbashallbookings@gmail.com to arrange booking.

JOB VACANCY
A vacancy has arisen for a Parish Secretary at St Clare’s Parish, Downsfield Road, Chester. CH4 8HH.  4 hours per week @ £14 per hour.  For further details, please see the Diocesan Website https://www.dioceseofshrewsbury.org/latest-vacancies/ CV and covering letter should be sent to Pauline McCulloch recruitment@dioceseofshrewsbury.org Closing date Friday 28 February 2025

AN IMPORTANT THANK YOU TO PATRICK GALVIN
In April last year, Patrick Galvin responded to our request for wool for Fish & Chip Babies by donating seven huge boxes of his late wife, Pauline’s wool. This included crochet and knitting patterns, many needles, buttons and all her other equipment. We can now say all the wool has been distributed to our knitters, and hundreds of recipients all over the world have benefited from the various garments made. Thank you so much, Patrick. A Mass will be said for Pauline.

LIVERPOOL ANGLICAN CATHEDRAL EXHIBITION: THREADS THROUGH THE BIBLE
The cathedral has a magnificent exhibition on display currently, Threads through the Bible. It’s a silk wall hanging exhibit by textile artist Jacqui Parkinson, which took 10 years to make. There are three extraordinary displays:

• Threads through Creation
• Threads through the Cross
• Threads through Revelation

Totalling 44 beautiful silk panels, it really is well worth a visit, available 16th January – 2nd March

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER: Sunday 23 February edition will be compiled by Alison Wrigglesworth, phone: 07708 304246 or email: a.wrigglesworth@outlook.com. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that are also emailed to Fr William or phoned to the compiler by 9.00 a.m. on WEDNESDAY 26 February 2025

The month of February is dedicated to the Holy Family

FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

9 FEBRUARY 2025

Sat 8 Feb
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Tony McHugh RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Margery Whatmough RIP
Sun 9 Feb
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Keegan Family
	2.00pm		Kerala Catholic Community Mass in Syro-Malabar Rite
Mon 10 Feb			St Scholastica, V. Mem.
St. Theresa’s			Rod, Josie, David, Gillian Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Sean McCabe
Tue 11 Feb			World Day of Prayer for the Sick
St. Theresa’s			Katherine Gannon RIP
St. Columba’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
Wed 12 Feb
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		Mary Sugrue
Thu 13 Feb
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		School Mass for Mrs Griffiths
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Fri 14 Feb			Ss Cyril, MK and Methodius, B. Feast. Day of Special Prayer for Europe
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Gillian Prescott RIP
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Sat 15 Feb
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Syriac Orthodox Mass
	5.00pm		Maureen & Michael Cheston
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Patricia Duggan RIP
Sun 16 Feb			Day of Special Prayer for Racial Justice
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Jenny Casey’s Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Tony Laydon
	2.00pm		Kerala Catholic Community Mass in Syro-Malabar Rite

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 at St Columba’s on Sunday 9 February at 11.00a.m. Cover is needed at both churches for occasions when Tim is unavailable.  The only requirement is you need to have an Iphone.  If you would be willing to help with this please contact one of the church offices.  Thank you.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

POPE’S FEBRUARY PRAYER INTENTIONS
For February-For vocations to the priesthood and religious life. Let us pray that the ecclesial community might welcome the desires and doubts of those young people who feel a call to serve Christ’s mission in the priesthood and religious life. 

ANNIVERSARIES
Lt. Lynda Taylor, Eileen Thornber, Mavis Lillian Shaw, Mary Geeleher.

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

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

PARISH OFFERTORY
Loose Plate: £573.82; Planned Giving £336.41; Average weekly SO £555.00. Candles: £28.00.

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for:

• the residents of Gayton Close, Denhall Close, Moorhouse Close, Milton Road, Mostyn Place, Crabwell Place, Byron Close, and Thomas Close.
• the Scouts, Venture Scouts, Cub Scouts and Beavers, the Ranger Guides, Guides, Brownies, Rainbows, Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Brigade.

JUBILEE PRAYER
There are copies of the Jubilee prayer available for you take a copy.

SPUC
There will be a retiring collection at St Columba’s on the weekend of 15/16 February for the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children.

CHURCH NEWS JUBILEE YEAR MESSAGE Pope at Second Jubilee Audience: ‘To hope is to turn around to God’ At his second Jubilee Catechesis on Saturday, Feb 1st, Pope Francis offered a reflection on the meaning of conversion, hope and the transformative power of faith, Conversion, he explained is a “change of direction,” that allows us to change the way we see things in our lives. It is not a one-time event but an ongoing process in which we repeatedly turn away from old ways of thinking and embrace new possibilities. Pope Francis highlighted the figure of Mary Magdalene who embodies the power of divine mercy. “In the Gospels, the figure of Mary Magdalene stands out above all others for this. Jesus healed her with mercy (cf. Lk 8:2), and she changed: the mercy brought her into God’s dreams and gave new purpose to her journey.” The Pope focused on John’s account of the Magdalene’s meeting with the Risen Christ, drawing attention to the repeated mention of Mary “turning around”. Initially, she is focused on the empty tomb, lost in grief, unable to recognize Jesus standing before her. But when she hears Him call her by name, she turns once again—this time with a new understanding: she no longer sees death and despair, but life and hope.   Can we make this time of Lent a time to turn ever more sincerely to God? Taken from the Vatican news website Parish Communications Group

WELCOME TO OUR PARISH
If you are NEW TO THE PARISH, please complete a Parish Registration Form and send (or bring) it to either parish office to let us know that you are here and enable us to welcome you. The form can be completed and submitted online or downloaded and printed out. Instructions are on the form, which can also be found in the front porches of both churches and on the website www.sscolumbaandthersa.co.uk under the I’m New tab. Thank you.

Coffee and tea (and sometimes cakes) are served in the Hall after the 11 am mass at St Columba’s and the 9.30 mass at St Theresa’s and after the 10.30 mass at St Columba’s on Monday and Wednesday. You will be most welcome to join us.

Lyn Coyle, Communications Group

HEALING MASS AT ST WERBURGH’S
Sunday 9 February, 2.30p.m., with an opportunity for the Sacrament of the Sick at the end. Refreshments afterwards. Everyone warmly welcome.

MRS GRIFFITHS LEAVING MASS – 13 FEBRUARY
On Thursday 13 February at 9.30am there will be a leaving Mass for Mrs Griffiths.  Mrs Griffiths has worked at St Theresa’s Primary School for 25 years and is now retiring.  We wish her a long and happy retirement.

PARISH RETREAT
There will be a Parish retreat on Saturday 15 March from 10a.m – 1p.m. in St Columba’s Hall. All invited. This will be on: “Understanding the biblical roots of a Jubilee year and what it means for this current Jubilee of 2025”.

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS
As part of our Parish Development Plan the Pastoral Council would like to offer transport to Mass for any parishioners who may require this.  Before doing so we need to gather a small team of volunteer drivers who would be willing to undertake this service.  Perhaps this could be a personal commitment in recognition of the Jubilee Year?   It is not expected that driving duty would occur very frequently so if you think you could help please contact one of the Parish offices with your details. Thanks to all. 
Nuala Keegan, on behalf of the Pastoral Council.

CHESTER & ELLESMERE PORT KERALA CATHOLIC COMMUNITY
Every Sunday at 2.00p.m., the Chester & Ellesmere Port Kerala Catholic Community now have a Mass in St Columba’s in the Syro – Malabar Rite. All are welcome

MALANKARA JACOBITE SYRIAC ORTHODOX COMMUNITY CHESTER
Every other Saturday morning this group have a Mass at 9.30am at St Theresa’s.

OUR PARISH YOUTH
Our next Youth Group meeting is on Monday 10 February at 7pm until 8.30pm at St Columba’s. Young people in school Year 5 or above are very welcome to join us for faith, fun, friendship…and biscuits! If you need a lift, or more information, please call Denise Lusk (01244 379742), Richard Curtis (+44 7787 782255) or Ann McCarthy (+44 7751 970388)

LOURDES ROADSHOW
In this Jubilee Year of 2025, Bishop Mark has asked that our diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes will be our Jubilee Pilgrimage. To help raise the profile of the pilgrimage and to answer any questions your parishioners might have, we have organised two roadshows for those who are interested in joining our annual diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes. The next roadshow will be on 15 February 2pm-4pm St Anthony’s, Wythenshawe. Information and register of interest cards will be available, and members of the Lourdes Management Team will be present to answer any questions.

PRIEST RETIREMENT FUND – THANK YOU
Thank you for your generous donations recently which amounted to £381.42.

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Magdalena Bukowska, St. Columba’s Church Office, phone: 01244 624019, email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com. Office hours Monday to Friday 9a.m. to 2p.m.
Hall availability can be checked by looking at St Columba’s Church website – section for Church Hall gives a calendar of events in the Hall. Then contact Magdalena Bukowska on 01244 624019 for enquires within the office hours stated above or email columbashallbookings@gmail.com to arrange booking.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
“Challenges are gifts that force us to search for a new centre of gravity. Don’t fight them. Just find a new way to stand.” – Oprah Winfrey.

LIFT NEEDED
Are you able to offer Fr Peter a lift from St Columba’s back to St Theresa’s after the 6.30pm Saturday evening Mass and the 11am Sunday morning Mass.  This is only every other weekend until Fr Peter passes his British driving test.  Please contact St Columba’s office if you are willing to help.

HIGHLIGHT FROM THE HIGH
During the Jubilee Year, the chaplain and the students at the CHS would like to hear from parishioners about ideas on how the school could bring hope to our community. Any ideas, please email Ana to gasparinia@christofidelis.org.uk. Thank you to those who already emailed fantastic ideas!

JOB VACANCY
A vacancy has arisen for a Parish Secretary at St Clare’s Parish, Downsfield Road, Chester. CH4 8HH.  4 hours per week @ £14 per hour.  For further details, please see the Diocesan Website https://www.dioceseofshrewsbury.org/latest-vacancies/ CV and covering letter should be sent to Pauline McCulloch recruitment@dioceseofshrewsbury.org Closing date Friday 28 February 2025.

ZUMBATHON
On Saturday 15th February, I will be hosting a Zumbathon for Hopeful Ugandan Hearts to raise funds for two Orphanages in Uganda. Children need to go back to school and we’d like to raise funds for school fees.   From 11am-1pm two hours of Zumba Gold and Zumba fitness.  £10 adults and £5 Children 6+. We’ll have amazing prizes in our Raffle!!!   All moves welcome!!! Help us to get the children back to school. Pay at the door or contact Lina Greig 07837512544 for more information.  

LIVERPOOL ANGLICAN CATHEDRAL EXHIBITION: THREADS THROUGH THE BIBLE
The cathedral has a magnificent exhibition on display currently, Threads through the Bible. It’s a silk wall hanging exhibit by textile artist Jacqui Parkinson, which took 10 years to make. There are three extraordinary displays:
• Threads through Creation
• Threads through the Cross
• Threads through Revelation
Totalling 44 beautiful silk panels, it really is well worth a visit, available 16th January – 2nd March

SPECIAL ANNIVERSARIES
If anyone has a special wedding anniversary this year, 25^th, 40^th, 50^th or 60^th please inform one of the church offices in order to receive your invitation from the Diocese to a special Mass later this year.

AN IMPORTANT THANK YOU TO PATRICK GALVIN
In April last year, Patrick Galvin responded to our request for wool for Fish & Chip Babies by donating seven huge boxes of his late wife, Pauline’s wool. This included crochet and knitting patterns, many needles, buttons and all her other equipment. We can now say all the wool has been distributed to our knitters, and hundreds of recipients all over the world have benefited from the various garments made. Thank you so much, Patrick. A Mass will be said for Pauline.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER: Sunday 16 February edition will be compiled by Eileen Irwin Phone: 01244 371660 or email: st.theresas@btinternet.com. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that are also emailed to Fr William or phoned to the compiler by 9.00 a.m. on WEDNESDAY 12 February 2025

The month of February is dedicated to the Holy Family

THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD

2 FEBRUARY 2025

Sat 1 Feb
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Catherine McHugh RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Chris Duncan
Sun 2 Feb			Presentation of the Lord. Feast.
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Kathleen Maguire RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Comerford Family
	2.00pm		Kerala Catholic Community Mass in Syro-Malabar Rite
Mon 3 Feb			St Werburgh, V. Mem.
St. Theresa’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		John Tobin
Tue 4 Feb
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
Wed 5 Feb			St Agatha, V, M. Mem.
St. Theresa’s			Christine North
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		Antoni Bukowski
Thu 6 Feb			St Paul Miki & Companions, Mm. Mem.
St. Theresa’s			John & Debbie Dwyer
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Fri 7 Feb
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Richard Murphy RIP
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Sat 8 Feb
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Tony McHugh RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Margery Whatmough RIP
Sun 9 Feb
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Keegan 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 at St. Theresa’s on Sunday 2^nd February 2025 at 9.30a.m. Cover is needed at both churches for occasions when Tim is unavailable.  The only requirement is you need to have an Iphone.  If you would be willing to help with this please contact one of the church offices.  Thank you.
 www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

POPE’S FEBRUARY PRAYER INTENTIONS
For February-For vocations to the priesthood and religious life. Let us pray that the ecclesial community might welcome the desires and doubts of those young people who feel a call to serve Christ’s mission in the priesthood and religious life. 

ANNIVERSARIES
Josephine Margaret Watts, Teresa Gibson, Josephine Margaret Watts, Alexander James Keegan, Teresa Gibson, Gina Franceloso Brace, Mavis Lillian Shaw.

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

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

PARISH OFFERTORY
Loose Plate: £830.34; Planned Giving £355.72; Average weekly SO £555.00. Candles: £81.45.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
The coffee rota for 2025 is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. The rota has a QR code linking to a calendar online: edit your chosen dates. Alternatively, just write your name, charity and phone number on the calendar. But if you can’t access the hall, leave a message on Margaret Curtis’s answerphone on 01244 318424 with your name and date(s) and she will add you to the rota.

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for:

• Pray for the residents of Whitton Drive, Sutton Drive, Bidston Close, Greenfield Lane, Owen Close, Shelley Road, Chaucer Close, Browning Close and Alderley Place.
• For Sunshine Tots, iPraise & Play and for all the leaders.
• For young families.

NEW TO THE PARISH? WELCOME!
We have a New Parish Registration Form to be completed and sent to either parish office to let us know that you are here and enable us to welcome you to the parish. The form can be completed and submitted online or downloaded and printed out. Instructions are on the form, which can also be found in the front porches of both churches. You will find it on the I’m New tab of the website.

HEALING MASS AT ST WERBURGH’S
Sunday 9 February, 2.30p.m., with an opportunity for the Sacrament of the Sick at the end. Refreshments afterwards. Everyone warmly welcome.

PARISH RETREAT
There will be a Parish retreat on Saturday 15^th March from 10a.m – 1p.m. in St Columba’s Hall. All invited.
Could you please add the information to the item on Parish This will be on: “Understanding the biblical roots of a Jubilee year and what it means for this current Jubilee of 2025”.

FIRST FORGIVENESS ST COLUMBA’S
We congratulate the 7 children who celebrated the Sacrament of  First Forgiveness last Saturday. We thank their families and the teachers and catechists who helped to prepare them. Please continue to pray for the children as they go on with their preparation programme for their First Holy Communions in May.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
“Do not allow instinctive reactions to guide your communication. Always spread hope, even when it is difficult, even when it seems not to bear fruit.  Try to promote a communication that can heal the wounds of humanity” Pope Francis Jan 2025. 

SPUC
There will be a retiring collection at all Masses on the weekend of 1^st/2^nd February for the Society for the Protection of Children.

PARISH BOOKMARKS
You will have seen that there are bookmarks available in the church porches. Due to a slight mistiming on printing, they were available for use before a proper explanation was given. The bookmarks originated as part of the welcome pack which we now give to new parishioners. It’s a small token of welcome to the parish. It seemed fitting to offer them also to existing parishioners as a small reminder of the parish community to which we all belong. Please take one per family.
The Communications Group

CHURCH NEWS JUBILEE YEAR MESSAGE Pope Francis: Jesus sustains our hope On the feast of the Conversion of St Paul,, January 25th, Pope Francis spoke again of hope. Although everyone faces moments of despair or know people who have lost hope, “the Gospel tells us that Jesus always restores hope,” Pope Francis said on Saturday evening at the Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls. “He continually raises us up from the ashes of death and gives us the strength to go on, to begin anew.” He reflected on the Gospel account of Jesus’ encounter with Martha after the death of her brother, Lazarus. In response to Martha’s profession of faith in the resurrection of the dead at the end of time, Jesus assured her that He Himself is the resurrection and the life, and asks of her, “Do you believe this?” “even in times of deep desolation, we are not alone and we can continue to hope.” “Do we believe this?” Pope Francis asked. “Do we believe that He is the resurrection and the life?” This could be a focus for our prayer during the coming week. Words taken from Vatican News

CHESTER & ELLESMERE PORT KERALA CATHOLIC COMMUNITY
Every Sunday at 2.00p.m., the Chester & Ellesmere Port Kerala Catholic Community now have a Mass in St Columba’s in the Syro – Malabar Rite. All are welcome

JUBILEE PRAYER
There are copies of the Jubilee prayer available for you take a copy

THANKYOU
The Family of the late John James Tobin, wish to convey their gratitude, to the Parishioners, for the many Mass & Sympathy Cards received during this very sad occasion.

OUR PARISH YOUTH
Our Parish Youth Group met on Monday 20th, where they talked about the Jubilee year: what it is, what it means and how we can celebrate it in our community. The young people have a lot of ideas about how we can help bring the meaning behind this year to our parish, so watch this space for more news and events! 

Our next Youth Group meeting is on Monday 10th February at 7pm until 8.30pm at St Columba’s. Young people in school Year 5 or above are very welcome to join us for faith, fun, friendship…and biscuits! If you need a lift, or more information, please call Denise Lusk (01244 379742), Richard Curtis (+44 7787 782255) or Ann McCarthy (+44 7751 970388)

LOURDES ROADSHOW
In this Jubilee Year of 2025, Bishop Mark has asked that our diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes will be our Jubilee Pilgrimage. To help raise the profile of the pilgrimage and to answer any questions your parishioners might have, we have organised two roadshows for those who are interested in joining our annual diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes. The next roadshow will be on 15^th February 2pm-4pm St Anthony’s, Wythenshawe. Information and register of interest cards will be available, and members of the Lourdes Management Team will be present to answer any questions.

PRIESTS RETIREMENT FUND
We will let you know the amount collected when it has been counted.

LIFT NEEDED
Are you able to offer Fr Peter a lift from St Columba’s back to St Theresa’s after the 6.30pm Saturday evening Mass and the 11am Sunday morning Mass.  This is only every other weekend until Fr Peter passes his British driving test.  Please contact St Columba’s office if you are willing to help.

HIGHLIGHT FROM THE HIGH
During the Jubilee Year, the chaplain and the students at the CHS would like to hear from parishioners about ideas on how the school could bring hope to our community. Any ideas, please email Ana to gasparinia@christofidelis.org.uk. Thank you to those who already emailed fantastic ideas!

LIVERPOOL ANGLICAN CATHEDRAL EXHIBITION: THREADS THROUGH THE BIBLE
The cathedral has a magnificent exhibition on display currently, Threads through the Bible. It’s a silk wall hanging exhibit by textile artist Jacqui Parkinson, which took 10 years to make. There are three extraordinary displays:
• Threads through Creation
• Threads through the Cross
• Threads through Revelation
Totalling 44 beautiful silk panels, it really is well worth a visit, available 16th January – 2nd March

SPECIAL ANNIVERSARIES
If anyone has a special wedding anniversary this year, 25^th, 40^th, 50^th or 60^th please inform one of the church offices in order to receive your invitation from the Diocese to a special Mass later this year.

JOB VACANCY
SEN Admin Support Role  – Temporary Cover until the Easter holidays with a possibility of extension after that. You would need to be organised,  ability to use databases, Microsoft and be able to communicate with staff, parents and external bodies. 8am to 4pm Monday to Thursday and 8am to 3.30pm Friday with 30 minutes lunch each day. £12.65 to £13.06 per hour depending on experience. Please contact kilcoynea@christofidelis.org.uk for more information.

ZUMBATHON
On Saturday 15th February, I will be hosting a Zumbathon for Hopeful Ugandan Hearts to raise funds for two Orphanages in Uganda. Children need to go back to school and we’d like to raise funds for school fees.   From 11am-1pm two hours of Zumba Gold and Zumba fitness.  £10 adults and £5 Children 6+. We’ll have amazing prizes in our Raffle!!!   All moves welcome!!! Help us to get the children back to school. Pay at the door or contact Lina Greig 07837512544 for more information.  

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Magdalena Bukowska, St. Columba’s Church Office, phone: 01244 624019, email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com. Office hours Monday to Friday 9a.m. to 2p.m.
Hall availability can be checked by looking at St Columba’s Church website – section for Church Hall gives a calendar of events in the Hall. Then contact Magdalena Bukowska on 01244 624019 for enquires within the office hours stated above or email columbashallbookings@gmail.com to arrange booking.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER
Sunday 9 February edition will be compiled by Amy O’Donnell Phone: 07854 290897 or email: amyod@hotmail.co.uk. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that items are also emailed to Fr William or phoned to the compiler by 9.00 a.m. on WEDNESDAY 5 February 2025

THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

26 JANUARY 2025

Sat 25 Jan
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Private Intention (CC)
Sun 26 Jan			Sunday of the Word of God
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Margaret Parry RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Patricia Kelly
Mon 27 Jan
St. Theresa’s			Tony & Peggy McHugh & Nell Tobin
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Jeremiah Bukowski
Tue 28 Jan			St Thomas Aquinas, P, D. Mem.
St. Theresa’s			Dolly George & Kevin Jones
St. Columba’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
Wed 29 Jan
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		Francis Bukowski
Thu 30 Jan
St. Theresa’s			Angela Stanley
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Fri 31 Jan			St John Bosco, P, R. Mem.
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Henry Michael Lloyd RIP
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Sat 1 Feb
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Catherine McHugh RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Chris Duncan
Sun 2 Feb			The Presentation of the Lord
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Kathleen Maguire RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Comerford 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 at St. Theresa’s on Sunday 26^th January 2025 at 9.30a.m.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

POPE’S JANUARY PRAYER INTENTIONS
Let us pray for migrants, refugees and those affected by war, that their right to an education, which is necessary to build a better world, might always be respected.

ANNIVERSARIES
John Francis McNeill, Elizabeth (Betty) Allingham, Josephine Margaret Watts.

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

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

PARISH OFFERTORY
Loose Plate: £424.83; Planned Giving £250.40; Average weekly SO £555.00. Candles: £23.65.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
The coffee rota for 2025 is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. The rota has a QR code linking to a calendar online: edit your chosen dates. Alternatively, just write your name, charity and phone number on the calendar. But if you can’t access the hall, leave a message on Margaret Curtis’s answerphone on 01244 318424 with your name and date(s) and she will add you to the rota.

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for:

• the residents of Dunham Way, Chirk Close, Tintern Avenue, Cleves Close, Roman Drive, Cavalier Drive and Hadrian Drive.
• the prayer groups and ecumenical prayer groups.
• those who have nobody to pray for them.

NEW TO THE PARISH? WELCOME!
We have a New Parish Registration Form to be completed and sent to either parish office to let us know that you are here and enable us to welcome you to the parish. The form can be completed and submitted online or downloaded and printed out. Instructions are on the form, which can also be found in the front porches of both churches. You will find it on the I’m New tab of the website.

INTRODUCTION TO THE HOLY YEAR 2025
A special day will be held at Saint Joseph’s Stockport on Saturday 1st February to introduce the Jubilee Year 2025. The day will begin with Mass at 10.00a.m. and include presentations by our catechetical, marriage and family life, CAFOD and Caritas Diocese of Shrewsbury teams.

Watch this space for Church News: Jubilee Year 2025. What is it?
Jubilee Years are a tradition of the Church dating back to 1300. They are now usually once every 25 years and are designed to be a time of conversion and increased emphasis on God’s mercy and forgiveness; a time for us to focus more on prayer and our life as a Christian.

Pope Francis encouraged all Christians to be “messengers of hope” by saying ‘yes’ to life”.
“Let us not be afraid to throw open bright windows of closeness to those who are suffering, of forgiveness, of compassion, and reconciliation…This invitation resounds in a particular way in the Jubilee Year that has just begun, urging us to be messengers of hope with a simple, but concrete ‘yes’ to life, with choices that bring life… Jesus, the Word Incarnate, is the light that shines in darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it”; The gospel “reminds us, then, how powerful is God’s love, which is not overcome by anything and which, despite obstacles and rejections, continues to shine and illuminate our path”. He added that today is a time of “great need for light, for hope, and a need for peace”.

What does this mean for me?
“How can I open a window of light in my environment and in my relationships?
Where can I be a glimmer of light that lets God’s love pass through?
What is the first step I should take today?”

Throughout the Jubilee Year, there will be opportunities to reflect on these questions. Maybe too, we could resolve to spend more time in prayer, listening to what God is asking of us and making it a reality in our daily lives.

HEALING MASS AT ST WERBURGH’S
Sunday 9^th February, 2.30p.m., with an opportunity for the Sacrament of the Sick at the end. Refreshments afterwards. Everyone warmly welcome.

PARISH RETREAT
There will be a Parish retreat on Saturday 15^th March from 10a.m – 1p.m. in St Columba’s Hall. All invited. More details nearer the time.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
“Knowledge is knowing that tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is knowing not to put it in a fruit salad” – Brian O’Driscoll.

JOB VACANCY
SEN Admin Support Role  – Temporary Cover until the Easter holidays with a possibility of extension after that. You would need to be organised,  ability to use databases, Microsoft and be able to communicate with staff, parents and external bodies. 8am to 4pm Monday to Thursday and 8am to 3.30pm Friday with 30 minutes lunch each day. £12.65 to £13.06 per hour depending on experience. Please contact kilcoynea@christofidelis.org.uk for more information.

SPUC
There will be a retiring collection at all Masses on the weekend of 1^st/2^nd February for the Society for the Protection of Children.

PRIESTS RETIREMENT FUND
We will let you know the amount collected when it has been counted.

BOOK MARKS
There are bookmarks for everyone in the parish.  Please take one home with you.

CHESTER & ELLESMERE PORT KERALA CATHOLIC COMMUNITY
Every Sunday at 2.00p.m., the Chester & Ellesmere Port Kerala Catholic Community now have a Mass in St Columba’s in the Syro – Malabar Rite. All are welcome

LOURDES ROADSHOW
In this Jubilee Year of 2025, Bishop Mark has asked that our diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes will be our Jubilee Pilgrimage. To help raise the profile of the pilgrimage and to answer any questions your parishioners might have, we have organised two roadshows for those who are interested in joining our annual diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes. Our first roadshow will be on 1^st February 2pm-4pm at Our Lady & St John’s, Heswall, Wirral, and our second roadshow will be on 15^th February 2pm-4pm St Anthony’s, Wythenshawe. Information and register of interest cards will be available, and members of the Lourdes Management Team will be present to answer any questions.

HIGHLIGHT FROM THE HIGH
Last week, the Catholic High School has launched the Jubilee 2025 with the Celebration of the Word for each year group, followed by the opening of a handmade “Holy Door”, purposely built as a symbol of our commitment to bring hope to people. The chaplain and the students would like to hear parishioners’ suggestions on how the school could bring hope to our community. Any ideas, please email Ana to gasparinia@christofidelis.org.uk. Thank you.

ZUMBATHON
On Saturday 15th February, I will be hosting a Zumbathon for Hopeful Ugandan Hearts to raise funds for two Orphanages in Uganda. Children need to go back to school and we’d like to raise funds for school fees.   From 11am-1pm two hours of Zumba Gold and Zumba fitness.  £10 adults and £5 Children 6+. We’ll have amazing prizes in our Raffle!!!   All moves welcome!!! Help us to get the children back to school. Pay at the door or contact Lina Greig 07837512544 for more information.  

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Magdalena Bukowska, St. Columba’s Church Office, phone: 01244 624019, email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com. Office hours Monday to Friday 9a.m. to 2p.m.
Hall availability can be checked by looking at St Columba’s Church website – section for Church Hall gives a calendar of events in the Hall. Then contact Magdalena Bukowska on 01244 624019 for enquires within the office hours stated above or email columbashallbookings@gmail.com to arrange booking.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER
Sunday 2^nd February edition will be compiled by Harry Sweeney Phone: 01244 327462 or email: harrysweeney45@gmail.com. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that items are also emailed to Fr William or phoned to the compiler by 9.00a.m. on WEDNESDAY 29 January 2025

SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

19 JANUARY 2025

Sat 18 Jan			The Octave of Prayer for Christian Unity
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Cath Bond RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Tony Wernham RIP
Sun 19 Jan			Day of Special Prayer for World Peace
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Anthony Comerford RIP
Mon 20 Jan
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Alan Parry RIP
Tue 21 Jan
St. Theresa’s			Pat & Gerard Miles & Family
St. Columba’s			Private Intentions
Wed 22 Jan
St. Theresa’s			Claire & John Miles & Family
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		The Parish
Thu 23 Jan
St. Theresa’s			Danny & Niki Miles & Family
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Requiem Mass for John Tobin
Fri 24 Jan			St Francis de Sales, B, D. Mem.
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Anthony Baker RIP
St. Columba’s			Private Intentions
Sat 25 Jan
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Private Intention (CC)
Sun 26 Jan			Sunday of the Word of God
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Margaret Parry RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Patricia Kelly

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 at St. Columba’s on Sunday 19^th January 2025 at 11.00am
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

RECENTLY DECEASED
Please remember in your prayers, John Tobin who died recently, as well as his family and friends. John’s Requiem Mass will be held on Thursday 23rd January at 10.30am at St Columba’s.

ANNIVERSARIES
Stanley Edward Taylor, Anthony Keith Baker, Margaret Parry, Michael Booth, John Francis McNeill, Rev Francis Gabriel Bligh, Veronica Mary Joyce, Frederick (Fred) Richard Hercules, Diane Blago

POPE’S JANUARY PRAYER INTENTIONS
Let us pray for migrants, refugees and those affected by war, that their right to an education, which is necessary to build a better world, might always be respected.

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 11.30a.m.
St Columba’s: From 6p.m. before the 6.30p.m. Saturday evening Mass.
St Theresa’s: From 4.30p.m. before 5p.m. Saturday evening Mass.

PARISH OFFERTORY
Loose Plate: £505.04; Planned Giving £336.80; Average weekly SO £555.00.
Many thanks for your generous support.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
The coffee rota for 2025 is now on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall, and you can make £30-£50 for your chosen cause. The rota now has a link to a booking calendar online. Please enter your name, good cause and phone number against your preferred dates or contact Margaret Curtis on 07876 061993. 

DAY OF SPECIAL PRAYER FOR WORLD PEACE
This Sunday 19^th January is a day of Special prayer for peace.  Pope Francis has boldly chosen “forgiveness” as the central theme for World Peace Day 2025. His message is “Forgive us our trespasses. Grant us your peace”.

PRIESTS’ RETIREMENT FUND-19^th Jan
There will be a retiring collection this weekend in aid of our retired priests.

FIRST FORGIVENESS CELEBRATION: ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH
On Saturday 25th January, 7 children from St Columba’s will receive the Sacrament of First Forgiveness in a special service of celebration at 10.00a.m. Please pray for the children and their families at this special time in their faith journeys.

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for:

• Pray for the the residents of Shocklach Road, Horrocks Road, Bolesworth Road, Boleyn Close, Tudor Green, Saxon Way and Palatine Close.
• For the choirs and music groups.
• For uniting all who play and sing from the three churches.

NEW TO THE PARISH? WELCOME!
We have a New Parish Registration Form to be completed and sent to either parish office to let us know that you are here and enable us to welcome you to the parish. The form can be completed and submitted online or downloaded and printed out. Instructions are on the form, which can also be found in the front porches of both churches. You will find it on the I’m New tab of the website.

BOOK MARKS
There are bookmarks for everyone in the parish.  Please take one home with you.

FOUND
A pair of glasses was left at St Theresa’s after the 9.30am Mass last Sunday. 

Thought for the week
Laughter is sunshine; it chases winter from the human face.  Victor Hugo.

ZUMBATHON
On Saturday 15th February I will be hosting a Zumbathon for Hopeful Ugandan Hearts to raise funds for two Orphanages in Uganda. Children need to go back to school and we’d like to raise funds for school fees.   From 11am-1pm two hours of Zumba Gold and Zumba fitness.  £10 adults and £5 Children 6+. We’ll have amazing prizes in our Raffle!!!   All moves welcome!!! Help us to get the children back to school. Pay at the door or contact Lina Greig 07837512544 for more information.  

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Magdalena Bukowska, St. Columba’s Church Office, phone: 01244 624019, email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com. Office hours Monday to Friday 9a.m. to 2p.m.
Hall availability can be checked by looking at St Columba’s Church website – section for Church Hall gives a calendar of events in the Hall. Then contact Magdalena Bukowska on 01244 624019 for enquires within the office hours stated above or email columbashallbookings@gmail.com to arrange booking.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER
Sunday 19^th January  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 also emailed to Fr William or phoned to the compiler by 9.00a.m. on WEDNESDAY 22 January 2025