THE THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT  

15 DECEMBER 2024

Sat 14 Dec
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Maureen & Michael Chester RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		John Black RIP
Sun 15 Dec			Third Sunday of Advent
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Muriel & Jim Halligan RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Jason Lou
Mon 16 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Andrew McRoberts
Tue 17 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s			Private Intentions
Wed 18 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Private Intentions
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		Bob Breen RIP
Thu 19 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Mae Dunnes
St. Columba’s			Paula & Pete Graham
Fri 20 Dec
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Sarah Russell RIP
St. Columba’s	12.45pm		Requiem Mass for Catherine Winifred Bond
Sat 21 Dec
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Ruth O’Donnell RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Pat Black
Sun 22 Dec
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Frank & Mary Lally
St. Columba’s	11.00am		The Elwell Family esp. Eddie

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 this Sunday 15 December 2024.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

POPE’S DECEMBER PRAYER INTENTIONS
We pray that this Jubilee Year strengthen our faith, helping us to recognise the Risen Christ in our daily lives, and that it may transform us into pilgrims of Christian hope.

RECENTLY DECEASED
Please remember in your prayers Catherine Winifred (Cath) Bond, Ann Massey and Joseph Blundell, as well as their family and friends. Cath’s Requiem Mass will be at St Columba’s on 20 December at 12.45pm. Joe’s funeral will be at St Theresa’s at 12.45 on Monday 23 of December.

ANNIVERSARIES
Maureen Elizabeth Sheriffs, Fr Vincent O’Toole, Catherine (Kitty) McAlinden, Margaret Rose Allmark, Ruth O’Donnell, Francis Joseph Lally

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.

CHRISTMAS GREETING
Fr William and Fr Peter would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  A big thank you  to all those who have helped in any way with the Christmas services. Thank you for all your support throughout the year.

PARISH OFFERTORY
Loose Plate: £361.65; Planned Giving £81.50; Average weekly SO £555.00. Candles £40.35
Many thanks for your generous support.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
The coffee rota is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. Please enter your name and good cause against your preferred dates. You could make £30-£50 for your chosen cause.
15 Dec     Lina Greig, Hopeful Ugandan Hearts
22 Dec     volunteers please
29 Dec     volunteers please

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for:

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

WALK WITH ME – £1
There are copies of this Advent booklet price £1 available at the back of church.

ADVENT JOURNEY OF OUR KNITTED MARY, JOSEPH & DONKEY FIGURES
Our Holy Family have begun their Bethlehem journey to St. Theresa’s crib. Parish families are hosting them nightly, and they will be stopping to visit the schools of St. Werburgh and St. Columba’s and St. Theresa’s on their way.

CHRISTMAS SERVICES LEAFLET
Copies are available in the porches during Advent.  Do take it home and use it as reference to the many Advent and Christmas Services. Please note that the Parish Carol service is on Friday 20^th December at 6.30p.m.

PARISH CHRISTMAS CARD
On behalf of the parish clergy, the Communications Group has designed a Christmas Card for each family in the parish, expressing the warm good wishes of the clergy at this holy time. The back of the card carries a reminder of service times over the Christmas week which it is hoped will be useful should you lose the fuller list prepared by the Liturgy Group. These cards will be given to families over the next two weeks, depending on print date from the printer. Any spares will be left in the porches so that each family will have a card.

CHRISTMAS FLOWERS
There will be a collection after Mass this weekend at St. Columba’s to decorate the Church over the Festive Season. For St Theresa’s, please place in an envelope marked ‘flowers’ and leave in the offertory basket.  Thank you in advance for your continued support.

CHRISTINGLE CAROL – 11.00A.M. MASS
1. O sing about Christingle, your voices loud employ,
Your praises bring to God our King, for Jesus and His joy.

2. The orange of Christingle, the world reminds us of,
And how our God created us, and on us shed His love.

3. The candle of Christingle, with shining flame so bright,
Reminds us of our loving Lord, who is the world’s true light.

4. The red band of Christingle, which plainly we can see,
Reminds us of how Jesus Christ was killed upon that tree.

5. The four sticks of Christingle, with which the orb we spear,
Remind us how God cares for us, through seasons of the year.

6. The fruits of the Christingle, they have a special worth,
Reminding of the Spirit’s fruits as well as fruits of earth.

7. The whole of the Christingle, it is a joy to see,
It shines to show how God our Father loves both you and me.

CHRISTMAS EVE MASS – ST COLUMBA’S
We are looking for children of all ages to help with the 4.30pm Christmas Eve Mass at St Columba’s.
If you are a budding actor, reader, sheep, shepherd, King or Angel etc. and would like to be part of the service please contact Gillian Blatch gh.settle@gmail.com

UPTON CHURCHES CRIB
This crib is on display during Advent in the rear porch at St Columba’s.  There is an explanation of what we know of its history on display beside it.

YOUTH GROUP
Our youth group will meet on Monday 16th December, starting at 7pm in the Iona chapel and finishing at 8.30pm in St.Columba’s Church hall. All parishioners in school year 5, or older are very welcome to come along and join our happy group, learn a bit about our faith, play games, do activities, and generally have fun. Snacks provided. If you need a lift, or more information, please call Denise Lusk (01244 379742).

NEW PRAYER GROUP – LECTIO DIVINA
There is one more session to go before Christmas and this will be on Dec 19^th in the Iona Chapel at 11 a.m. We shall be using the Magnificat as the basis for our prayer time. The session will last no more than 40 minutes, allowing a little time to introduce the process. If you would like to join us, you would be most welcome.

CHRISTMAS EVENTS AT THE COUNTESS HOSPITAL
Tuesday 17^th December at 12.15 – Carol Service for all. Come and join us for a (fairly) traditional Carol Service in the Spiritual Care Centre. 

Wednesday 18^th December at 6.30 – Carols Singing around the Wards . We are hopefully going to get to every ward and sing a few Christmas carols. Patients and staff have been so blessed by this in the past. We even have Rosie, the Trust support dog, to join us this year!          

Thursday 19^th December at 12.15 – Advent Reflection

HIGHLIGHT FROM THE HIGH
Our school Carol Service will take place on Tuesday 17^th December, 6:30pm in the school hall. All warmly welcomed. The Catholic High School wishes you all a blessed and peaceful Christmas.

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
The Parish Carol service is on Friday 20^th December at 6.30p.m. – more details to follow.

UPTON CHURCHES FIFTH SUNDAY SERVICE
The next service will be held at 4.30 p.m. on Sunday 29^th December at the United Reformed Church on Heath Road.  The theme will be “EMMANUEL – God with us”.  Take this opportunity to round off your Christmas week in worship with the other Upton churches.

BAPTISMAL CANDLES AND CERTIFICATES
Irene Queenan is going to retire soon from the art of preparing Baptismal Candles and Certificates. If anyone would like to take over this role, please contact the office.

PASTORAL COUNCIL MEETING 11 NOVEMBER 2024
The parish’s involvement with the Pope’s invitation to the consultation process of the Synod took place during 2021 and 2022. The parish held a series of meetings with parishioners and invited written contributions in relation to desirable changes, within the church as a whole and in particular to our parish. Over 70 parishioners attended the meetings and over 200 written responses were received.

On behalf of the parish the Pastoral Council used all this information to submit a response to Bishop Mark in April 2022 regarding the parish’s thoughts on changes to the whole church. That matter then left our hands and contributed to the response from the bishop to the Bishops Conference of England and Wales.

The Pastoral Council then used your suggestions about changes to be made to the parish to draw up a Parish Development Plan. This was completed in summer 2022 and is available on the church web site. Putting that plan into practice has formed the focus of much activity in the parish over the last two years.

The Pastoral Council evaluated the implementation of the plan and identified priorities for activity for next year, 2025. These will be available on our website after formal agreement.

The overall conclusion was that a number of priorities for action had been achieved, including a regular children’s liturgy at St Columba’s; a re-vamp of the notice boards and a major revision to our website to make it easier to navigate and be more informative; the involvement of more parishioners in a variety of parish ministries. Further developments in these areas and others will focus our activities next year.
Pauline Rourke, Ann McCarthy, co –chairs Pastoral Council

Thought for the week:
‘It is the beautiful task of Advent to awaken in all of us memories of goodness and thus to open doors of hope.’ – Pope Benedict XVI

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.

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.

SUBMISSION OF ITEMS FOR NEWSLETTERS OVER THE CHRISTMAS/NEW YEAR PERIOD:  
Our printers will be taking a well earned holiday over the Christmas period.  This means that our newsletter items will need to be submitted before Christmas to ensure printing over this Christmas period.  Please see deadlines in bold below. Please email or phone items to the identified editor.  

Newsletter for	Editor	Email address/ phone number	Last date of items for  submission to the editor
Sunday 22 Dec	Rebecca Vaughan	rebecca_vghn@yahoo.co.uk  01244 318632	Wed 18 Dec
Wed 25 Dec	Harry Sweeney	harrysweeney45@gmail.com  01244 327462	Thu 19 Dec
Sunday 29 Dec	Amy O’Donnell	amyod@hotmail.co.uk  07854290897	Thu 19 Dec
Sunday 5th Jan	Eileen Irwin	st.theresas@btinternet.com  01244 371660	Wed 1st Jan 2025

As always please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensue that items are also emailed to Fr Williams.  If there are any urgent items during this period please speak to one of our Priests or Deacon. 

THE SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT   

8 DECEMBER 2024

Sat 7 Dec
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Frank & Gertrude Buddery
Sun 8 Dec			Second Sunday of Advent
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Edward (Eddie)Mapp RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		John O’Boyle RIP
Mon 9 Dec			The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Solemnity
St. Theresa’s	7.00pm		Chris Steele RIP
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Monica Jenkins RIP
Tue 10 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Stephen Dale RIP
St. Columba’s			Private Intentions
Wed 11 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		Mary Walpole RIP
Thu 12 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Irene Williams RIP
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Fri 13 Dec			St Lucy, V, M. Mem.
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Joseph Russell RIP
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Sat 14 Dec
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Maureen & Michael Chester RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		John Black RIP
Sun 15 Dec
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Muriel & Jim Halligan RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Parishioners’ Intentions

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

FEAST OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Monday 9 December is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, a holy day of obligation, Mass at St Columba’s is at 10.30am and at St Theresa’s at 7pm.

POPE’S DECMBER PRAYER INTENTIONS
We pray that this Jubilee Year strengthen our faith, helping us to recognise the Risen Christ in our daily lives, and that it may transform us into pilgrims of Christian hope.

RECENTLY DESEASED
Please remember in your prayers Evan Rothwell, Catherine Winifred Bond, Ann Massey and Joseph Blundell, as well as their family and friends. Joe’s funeral will be held in St. Theresa’s at 12.45 on Monday 23^rd of December. A memorial service for Evan Rothwell will be held in St. Werburgh’s at 11.00a.m. on Saturday 14^th of December.

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.

ANNIVERSARIES
Christina (Chrissie) Harrison, Irene Patricia Williams

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS
Mass will be streamed at St Theresa’s this Sunday 8^th December 2024.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

PARISH OFFERTORY
Loose Plate: £555.66; Planned Giving £225.38; Average weekly SO £555.00. Candles £17.63
Many thanks for your generous support.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
The coffee rota is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. Please enter your name and good cause against your preferred dates. You could make £30-£50 for your chosen cause.
8 Dec          volunteers please
15 Dec          Lina Greig, Hopeful Ugandan Hearts
22 Dec          volunteers please

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for:

• Pray for the residents of Glastonbury Avenue, Tewkesbury Close, Marlowe Avenue, Cairns Crescent, Hobart Way, Auckland Road and Wyndham Road.
• For those who are bereaved and those who provide support.

WALK WITH ME – £1
There are copies of this Advent booklet price £1 available at the back of church.

ADVENT JOURNEY OF OUR KNITTED MARY, JOSEPH & DONKEY FIGURES
Our Holy Family have begun their Bethlehem journey to St. Theresa’s crib. Parish families are hosting them nightly, and they will be stopping to visit the schools of St. Werburgh and St. Columba’s and St. Theresa’s on their way.

CHRISTMAS SERVICES LEAFLET
Copies will then be available in the porches during Advent.  Do take it home and use it as reference to the many Advent and Christmas Services. Please note that the Parish Carol service is on Friday 20^th December at 6.30p.m.

CHRISTMAS FLOWERS
There will be a collection after Mass on 14th & 15th December, at St. Columba’s, to decorate the Church over the Festive Season. Thank you in advance for your continued support.

CHRISTMAS EVE MASS – ST COLUMBA’S
We are looking for children of all ages to help with the 4.30pm Christmas Eve Mass at St Columba’s.
If you are a budding actor, reader, sheep, shepherd, King or Angel etc. and would like to be part of the service please contact Gillian Blatch gh.settle@gmail.com

UPTON CHURCHES CRIB
This crib is on display during Advent in the rear porch at St Columba’s.  There is an explanation of what we know of its history on display beside it.

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
The Christmas Party for senior members of the Parish and all volunteers will be held on the Saturday 14th December starting at 2 p.m. in St Columba’s parish hall. If anyone from St Theresa’s would like a lift, please put your name on the list at the back of church.

The Parish Carol service is on Friday 20^th December at 6.30p.m. – more details to follow.

SOUND SYSTEM AT ST THERESA’S
The new sound system is being installed over the next few days.  Apologies for last weekend as only the microphone on the pulpit was working.

THE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL CHRISTMAS FAIR
Will be held onThursday12th December between 4 – 6:15pm.  £1 entrance fee on the evening. Fabulous stalls, Santa’s Grotto, food, music and more! All welcome! 

CHRISTMAS CARDS
Christmas cards are on sale in the Piety Shop. If anyone would like any other religious items, please ring Janet on 01244 329469 as I have a catalogue and can order the item or see Carol after Sunday morning Mass at St Theresa’s.    

CHESTER AID TO THE HOMELESS
To all those in the Parish who donated clothing items to the charity, thank you so very much.  They are all much appreciated.

NEW PRAYER GROUP – LECTIO DIVINA
There will be two more sessions of this quiet prayer group which will take place on Thursday Dec 12th and Thursday Dec 19th, both at 11.a.m in the Iona Chapel. If you have not been before, you are most welcome to join us. For information contact Lyn Coyle on marilyn.coyle44@gmail.com or 07735574397

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.

BAPTISMAL CANDLES AND CERTIFICATES
Irene Queenan is going to retire soon from the art of preparing Baptismal Candles and Certificates. If anyone would like to take over this role, please contact the office.

RED MISSION BOXES, ST COLUMBA’S
If you are a red Missio box holder, please leave your box in the sacristy for counting and pick up your emptied box, with your name on, from the table in the rear porch of St Columba’s.

ROMAN CATHOLIC HOSPITAL MASS
Will be celebrated on Thursday 12th December 2023 at 12.15pm in the Countess of Chester Hospital Chapel. This mass is for all the staff, patients, patient families, volunteers and parishioners of our area. If you are able to attend, we would love to welcome you to Holy Mass once a month in the COCH chapel.

CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
The Catholic High School is thrilled to share with you the outcome of the recent inspection for Catholic Schools. We are proud to announce that the overall quality of Catholic Education provided by the school is Good, having achieved an Outstanding Catholic Life and Mission, Good Religious Education, and Outstanding Collective Worship. This can only happen thanks to the dedicated work of Mrs. McKeagney, our headteacher, Mrs. Johnson, Chair of Governors, and all the team members, including the RE department, chaplaincy and the unconditional support from Fr. Paul Shaw. A huge thanks to all the CHS staff members, our students, governors, parents, Parishes and parishioners for contributing to this excellent outcome. To read the full report, please visit our school website: Catholic-Schools-Inspectorate-Report-2024-CHSC.pdf

Thought for the week: In the midst of the seasonal rush, prioritizing quiet moments allows us all to recentre our focus on the spiritual significance and true meaning of Christmas.  “Mark the season of Advent by loving and serving others with God’s own love and concern.” – St. Mother Teresa

PASTORAL COUNCIL MEETING 11 NOVEMBER 2024
The parish’s involvement with the Pope’s invitation to the consultation process of the Synod took place during 2021 and 2022. The parish held a series of meetings with parishioners and invited written contributions in relation to desirable changes, within the church as a whole and in particular to our parish. Over 70 parishioners attended the meetings and over 200 written responses were received.

On behalf of the parish the Pastoral Council used all this information to submit a response to Bishop Mark in April 2022 regarding the parish’s thoughts on changes to the whole church. That matter then left our hands and contributed to the response from the bishop to the Bishops Conference of England and Wales.

The Pastoral Council then used your suggestions about changes to be made to the parish to draw up a Parish Development Plan. This was completed in summer 2022 and is available on the church web site. Putting that plan into practice has formed the focus of much activity in the parish over the last two years.

The Pastoral Council evaluated the implementation of the plan and identified priorities for activity for next year, 2025. These will be available on our website after formal agreement.

The overall conclusion was that a number of priorities for action had been achieved, including a regular children’s liturgy at St Columba’s; a re-vamp of the notice boards and a major revision to our website to make it easier to navigate and be more informative; the involvement of more parishioners in a variety of parish ministries. Further developments in these areas and others will focus our activities next year.

Pauline Rourke, Ann McCarthy, co –chairs Pastoral Council

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 15^th December edition will be compiled by Muriel Green. Phone: 01244 383836, or email: muriel.green1@btinternet.com. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that items are also emailed to Fr William or phoned to the compiler by 9.00a.m. on WEDNESDAY 11 December 2024

THE FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT – 1 DECEMBER 2024

Sat 30 Nov
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Bill Mansley RIP
Sun 1 Dec			1st Sunday of Advent, Blessing of the New Lectionaries
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Jefferey Samuel Parry RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Alvis Deans RIP
Mon 2 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Special Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Clifford Peaker
Tue 3 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s			Holy Souls
Wed 4 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Holy Souls
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		Avondale Williams RIP
Thu 5 Dec
St. Theresa’s			Olga Jones Intentions
St. Columba’s			Holy Souls
Fri 6 Dec
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		John Murphy RIP
St. Columba’s			Holy Souls
Sat 7 Dec
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Frank & Gertrude Buddery
Sun 8 Dec
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Edward (Eddie) Mapp RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Parishioners’ Intentions

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

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS
Mass will  be streamed at St Columba’s this Sunday 1^st December 2024.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

POPE’S DECMBER PRAYER INTENTIONS
We pray that this Jubilee Year strengthen our faith, helping us to recognise the Risen Christ in our daily lives, and that it may transform us into pilgrims of Christian hope.

ANNIVERSARIES
Ann White, Hilary Watmough, Fr Edward McCann CSSp, Jefferey Samuel Parry, Paolo Florio.

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: £533.30; Planned Giving £176.91; Average weekly SO £555.00. Candles £34.55 Badminton £200. Piety Stall £148.68.
Many thanks for your generous support.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
The coffee rota is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. Please enter your name and good cause against your preferred dates. You could make £30-£50 for your chosen cause.
 01 Dec               Richard Curtis – Altar Servers
 08 Dec               volunteers please
15 Dec                Lina Greig, Hopeful Ugandan Hearts

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for:

• the residents of Gatesheath Drive, Alpraham Crescent, St James Avenue, Maitland Way, Canberra Way, Roebourne Rise & Melbourne Road.
• For those who prepare couples for marriage.
• For those couples married in our churches this year and those who are about to be married.

BLESSING OF THE NEW LECTIONARIES
The new lectionaries will be Blessed at all Masses THIS weekend, 1^st December 2024.

CORRECTION THE ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS LEAFLET
The Upton Churches Fifth Sunday Service on Sunday 29^th December will be at Upton United Reformed Church and not at Holy Ascension.

SEASON OF ADVENT
On Sunday 1st December, as we start our journey through the Season of Advent , we invite you back into St Columba’s church at 12.30pm (following 11am Mass and tea and coffee) for a short period of adoration before the Blessed Sacrament.  All are welcome and we would love for the children of the parish, especially those who are preparing to make their First Holy Communion, to be part of this time of prayer.

WALK WITH ME – £1
There are copies of this Advent booklet price £1 available at the back of church.

ADVENT JOURNEY – HOSTING OUR KNITTED MARY, JOSEPH & DONKEY FIGURES
To continue our Advent tradition, we’re asking households, particularly those with young children, to host our knitted Mary, Joseph and donkey for one or more nights to symbolise the journey to Bethlehem. The knitted family will arrive at St Theresa’s crib, during the Carol Service.  
If you can host these small figures, they really are no trouble,

CHRISTMAS SERVICES LEAFLET
A Christmas Services Leaflet will be available with your Newsletter this week.  Copies will then be available in the porches during Advent.  Do take it home and use it as reference to the many Advent and Christmas Services.

CHRISTMAS EVE MASS – ST COLUMBA’S
We are looking for children of all ages to help with the 4.30pm Christmas Eve Mass at St Columba’s.
If you are a budding actor, reader, sheep, shepherd, King or Angel etc. and would like to be part of the service please contact Gillian Blatch gh.settle@gmail.com

UPTON CHURCHES CRIB
This crib is on display during Advent in the rear porch at St Columba’s.  There is an explanation of what we know of its history on display beside it.

 SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
Thank you to everyone who made the Autumn Fayre a big success. The money raised from this will go towards the Christmas Party and the Carol Service. The Christmas Party for senior members of the Paris and all volunteers will be held on the Saturday 14th December starting at 2 p.m. In St Columba’s parish hall. The Carol service will be held in St Theresa’s Church on Friday 20^th of December, more details to come.

YOUTH SUNDAY
A very big thank you to all our young parishioners who took part in Youth Sunday last Sunday at St Theresa’s and at St.Columba’s. It was lovely to see you welcoming, collecting, serving, forming the offertory procession and reading. Your contributions are very much appreciated. You all did really well. Thank you

And, many congratulations to the young parishioners who enrolled in the first Sacraments program at St.Columba’s on Youth Sunday.

Please continue to pray for our young people, the future of our church.

CAKE ETC SALE
This Sunday, 1st December, after Mass in St. Columba’s hall, there will be cakes and more on sale to raise funds for our Youth Group. We need craft, baking, and activity resources etc for future activities. Please come and support our youth group to raise money towards activities in 2025. Thank you.

ASSISTED SUICIDE BILL
Thank you to all who sent the cards to our MP.

CHRISTMAS CARDS
Christmas cards are on sale in the Piety Shop. If anyone would like any other religious items, please ring Janet on 01244 329469 as I have a catalogue and can order the item or see Carol after Sunday morning Mass at St Theresa’s.    

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

CHESTER AID TO THE HOMELESS
With winter coming, the charity are in desperate need of the following items of clothing: Men’s Shorts; men’s joggers; men’s underwear; men’s socks. They are also looking for some men’s clothing in XXL including a few coats! Any items can be left by the foodbank boxes in our church porches or contact Alex Mosquera on 01244 506 877 who will organise collection. Thank you.

NEW PRAYER GROUP – LECTIO DIVINA
The plan is to have four sessions on Thursdays Dec 5th, Dec 12th and Dec 19th in the Iona Chapel at 11 a.m. Each session will last no more than 40 minutes.  For further information please contact Lyn Coyle at marilyn.coyle44@gmail.com

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.

BAPTISMAL CANDLES AND CERTIFICATES
Irene Queenan is going to retire soon from the art of preparing Baptismal Candles and Certificates. If anyone would like to take over this role, please contact the office.

HELP AT HOME
A parishioner requires 1 hours help on Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays from 9.30a.m. to 10.30a.m. No cleaning. Just a few light duties. Please ring 01244 370310 for more information. Thank you.

SOUND SYSTEM AT ST THERESA’S
As the trial received many positive comments, it has been decided to go ahead with a new sound system.

ADVENT RETREAT (AGE 15 TO YOUNG ADULTS) AT CASTLERIGG MANOR
Bookings will close for the Advent Retreat at Castlerigg on December 11^th at Midday. The open retreats at Castlerigg give teens and young adults a great way to make friends, deepen their faith, and have some fun and they usually prove very popular. The weekend costs £65 but anyone who might struggle with this is invited to get in touch. Further details – director@castleriggmanor.co.uk. Sign up at castleriggmanor.com >> what’s coming up.

CHESTER URSULINE CONVENT CLASS OF 1975
The girls who left the Ursuline Convent in 1975 (aged 16, the last but one year before the Convent closed) are marking 50 years since leaving school with a “Grand Re-union” on 25 April 2025. We have successfully contacted quite a number but some are proving difficult to find. Can you possibly help? Please contact Pat Riddell (nee Axon) patriddell31@aol.com.

RED MISSION BOXES, ST COLUMBA’S
If you are a red Missio box holder, please leave your box in the sacristy for counting and pick up your emptied box, with your name on, from the table in the rear porch of St Columba’s.

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 1^st December edition will be compiled by Alison Wrigglesworth, phone: 07708 304246 or email: a.wrigglesworth@outlook.com. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that items are also emailed to Fr William or phoned to the compiler by 9.00a.m. on WEDNESDAY 4 December 2024.

THIRTY FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, KING OF THE UNIVERSE

24 NOVEMBER 2024

Sat 23 Nov
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		James Alexander Fletcher RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Ann Chappell RIP
Sun 24 Nov			Christ Our Universal King, Enrolment Mass for the Youth
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		William Upperman RIP
Mon 25 Nov
St. Theresa’s			Tony Simic
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Malakai Savage
Tue 26 Nov
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s			Holy Souls
Wed 27 Nov
St. Theresa’s			Special Intentions
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		Sean McCabe
Thu 28 Nov
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		School Mass
St. Columba’s			Holy Souls
Fri 29 Nov
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Carol Galvin’s Intentions
St. Columba’s			Holy Souls
Sat 30 Nov
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Bill Mansley RIP
Sun 1 Dec
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Jeffrey Samuel Parry RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Alvis Deans RIP

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

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS
Mass will NOT be streamed this Sunday 24^th November 2024.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

POPE’S NOVEMBER PRAYER INTENTIONS
For anyone who has lost a child. We pray that all parents who mourn the loss of a son or daughter find support in their community and receive peace and consolation from the Holy Spirit. 

ANNIVERSARIES
Ann White, Hilary Watmough, Fr Edward McCann CSSp, Jefferey Samuel Parry, Paolo Florio.

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: £727.82; Planned Giving £229.10; Average weekly SO £555.00.
Clergy and Education Fund Collection: £236.26.
Many thanks for your generous support.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
The coffee rota is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. Please enter your name and good cause against your preferred dates. You could make £30-£50 for your chosen cause.
24 Nov               Volunteers please
  1 Dec               Richard Curtis – Altar Servers              

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for:

• the residents of Cotebrook Drive, Oulton Avenue, Rushton Drive, Wavertree Road, Western Avenue and Lloyd Place.
• our churches open on Saturdays and the fellowship enjoyed there.
• all who use and maintain the web sites.

ASSISTED SUICIDE BILL
The Bill is to be debated in the House of Common later this month (Friday 29^th November) that would legalise assisted suicide in this country. It is extremely important that concerned citizens write to their MP to make their voice known. This vote could go either way, and we know that MPs are getting many letters from the assisted suicide lobby. The contact details for our MP are: Samantha Dixon c/o House of Commons. London. SW1AQ 0AA email: samantha.dixon.mp@parliament.uk.
There are cards available at the back of church for you to complete and send to Samantha Dixon, our MP. Resources with more information: A video of a zoom event put on for the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pKBNU4jlC4

A short (18 minute) video produced by Being Catholic TV for the Bishops’ Conference of which presents the arguments well. It includes interviews with Cardinal Vincent Nichols and various palliative care doctors. https://rcpolitics.org/do-no-harm-a-new-short-documentary-on-assisted-suicide

CORRECTION THE ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS LEAFLET
The Upton Churches Fifth Sunday Service on Sunday 29^th December will be at Upton United Reformed Church and not at Holy Ascension.

THE HOLY SOULS – NOVEMBER:
Please put names/donations in an envelope, marked Holy Souls, and place in the basket in front of the altar.

FIRST SACRAMENTS – ST COLUMBA’S
Today, Sunday 24th November, we are celebrating Youth Sunday. Children from the parish who are preparing to receive First Sacraments this school year will be enrolled in their preparation programme during the 11.00am Mass. Please pray for the children and their families at this important time in their faith journey.

SEASON OF ADVENT
On Sunday 1st December, as we start our journey through the Season of Advent , we invite you back into St Columba’s church at 12.30pm (following 11am Mass and tea and coffee) for a short period of adoration before the Blessed Sacrament.  All are welcome and we would love for the children of the parish, especially those who are preparing to make their First Holy Communion, to be part of this time of prayer.

BLESSING OF THE NEW LECTIONARIES
The new lectionaries will be Blessed at all Masses on the weekend of 1^st December 2024.

NEW PRAYER GROUP – LECTIO DIVINA
There’s still time to join! Lectio Divina simply means Sacred Reading and it is a way of praying through reflection on God’s word, with a leader to guide the group. Initially, the plan is to have four sessions in the weeks before Christmas on Thursdays Nov 28th, Dec 5th, Dec 12th and Dec 19th in the Iona Chapel at 11 a.m. Each session will last no more than 40 minutes, allowing a little time to introduce the process. Would anyone who is interested and would like to know more/ join with no commitment, please send a brief email to me so that I can send a bit more information. Please send to marilyn.coyle44@gmail.com.
Lyn Coyle

SINFONIA
Sinfonia are having their end of year rehearsal/party on Friday 29th November 7p.m.  in the Church Hall and have again invited parishioners to attend. Last year’s event was a lovely start to the festive season with music and song. Please come along and enjoy this occasion. Tea and nibbles will be provided

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.

WALK WITH ME – £1
There are copies of this Advent booklet price £1 available at the back of church.

CHESTER AID TO THE HOMELESS
With winter coming, the charity are in desperate need of the following items of clothing: Men’s Shorts; men’s joggers; men’s underwear; men’s socks. They are also looking for some men’s clothing in XXL including a few coats! Any items can be left by the foodbank boxes in our church porches or contact Alex Mosquera on 01244 506 877 who will organise collection. Thank you.

BAPTISMAL CANDLES AND CERTIFICATES
Irene Queenan is going to retire soon from the art of preparing Baptismal Candles and Certificates. If anyone would like to take over this role, please contact the office.

CHRISTMAS CARDS
Christmas cards are on sale in the Piety Shop. If anyone would like any other religious items, please ring Janet on 01244 329469 as I have a catalogue and can order the item or see Carol after Sunday morning Mass at St Theresa’s.    

NEEDLES & PINS – Wed 27th November
Everyone is invited to this friendly and welcoming needlecraft group in the Newman Room, between 2:00-4:00pm every fourth Wednesday of the month. Hope to see you.

RED MISSION BOXES, ST COLUMBA’S
If you are a red Missio box holder, please leave your box in the sacristy for counting and pick up your emptied box, with your name on, from the table in the rear porch of St Columba’s.

200 CLUB
This month’s winner is £25 B Doyle (no. 20)

ADVENT JOURNEY – HOSTING OUR KNITTED MARY, JOSEPH & DONKEY FIGURES
To continue our Advent tradition, we’re asking households, particularly those with young children, to host our knitted Mary, Joseph and donkey for one or more nights to symbolise the journey to Bethlehem. The knitted family will arrive at St Theresa’s crib, during the Carol Service.  If you can host these small figures, they really are no trouble, please add your details to the list (in both churches’ porches) by 27th November, so we can plan the route and arrange the transfer from host to host.

SOUND SYSTEM AT ST THERESA’S
We have had a trial of a new sound system installed at St Theresa’s and the feedback so far has been very positive.

TWO ADMINISTRATOR VACANCIES
Two Administrator vacancies, (full time: 35 hours and part time: 25 hours) have arisen within our Inter-Diocesan Fuel Management Department, which is a Catholic organisation purchasing gas, electricity, fuel oil and biomass for all Catholic Dioceses in England and Wales.  Salary: £23K to £25K (pro rata) depending on experience.  Further details can be found via our Diocesan website https://www.dioceseofshrewsbury.org/latest-vacancies/ completed application should be sent to Pauline McCulloch, recruitment@dioceseofshrewsbury.org   Closing date Friday 29 November 2024. 

CHAPLAINCY VACANCY
A chaplaincy vacancy at HMP Stoke Heath has arisen. For a job description and application information: 92268 – Roman Catholic Ordained Priest/ Deacon, Religious Brother, Sister – MoJ. Alternatively, applicants can contact: Mohammed Rahman, Imam & Managing Chaplain, HMP & YOI Stoke Heath, Market Drayton, TF9 2JL, Tel : 01630 636175, quoting Vacancy Ref: 92268 – Roman Catholic Ordained Priest/ Deacon, Religious Brother, Sister, Lay Person. Closing date: 13/12/2024 – 23:55

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
“Your beliefs become your thoughts, your thoughts become your words, your words become your actions, your actions become your habits, your habits become your values, your values become your destiny”. Mahatma Gandhi

HELP AT HOME
A parishioner requires 1 hours help on Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays from 9.30a.m. to 10.30a.m. No cleaning. Just a few light duties. Please ring 01244 370310 for more information. Thank you.

CHESTER URSULINE CONVENT CLASS OF 1975
The girls who left the Ursuline Convent in 1975 (aged 16, the last but one year before the Convent closed) are marking 50 years since leaving school with a “Grand Re-union” on 25^th April 2025. We have successfully contacted quite a number, but some are proving difficult to find. Can you possibly help? Please contact Pat Riddell (nee Axon) patriddell31@aol.com   The girls who left the Ursuline Convent in 1975 (aged 16, the last but one year before the Convent closed) are marking 50 years since leaving school with a “Grand Re-union” on 25^th April 2025. We have successfully contacted quite a number, but some are proving difficult to find. Can you possibly help? Please contact Pat Riddell (nee Axon) patriddell31@aol.com  

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 1^st December edition will be compiled by Eileen Irwin  Phone: 01244 371660/01244 379443 or email: st.theresas@btinternet.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 27^th November 2024.

THIRTY THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

17 November 2024

Sat 16 Nov
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Christina North RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Peter Carr RIP
Sun 17 Nov
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Nicolas Lancaster RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		David Vaughan RIP
Mon 18 Nov			Dedication of the Basilicas of St Peter & St Paul
St. Theresa’s			Eric Walsh RIP
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Private Intention C-S
Tue 19 Nov
St. Theresa’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s			Holy Souls
Wed 20 Nov
St. Theresa’s			Jane Walsh
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		Tomasz Bukowski
Thu 21 Nov			The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Mem.
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s			Mark Traynor
Fri 22 Nov			St Cecilia, V, M. Mem.
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Nell Tobin RIP
St. Columba’s			Holy Souls
Sat 23 Nov
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		James Alexander Fletcher RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Ann Chappell RIP
Sun 24 Nov			Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, Solemnity
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		William Upperman RIP

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

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS
Mass will NOT be streamed this Sunday 17^th November 2024.

ANNIVERSARIES
Victor Alfred Piggott, Catherine Mary Carter, Thomas Gilfoyle, Stephen Michael Phillips, Peter James Fynn, James Alexander Fletcher, Annie Keegan.

POPES NOVEMBER PRAYER INTENTIONS
For anyone who has lost a child. We pray that all parents who mourn the loss of a son or daughter find support in their community and receive peace and consolation from the Holy Spirit. 

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
St Columba: Loose Plate: £TBC; Planned Giving £TBC; Average weekly SO £555.00. St Theresa: Loose Plate £ 251.16; planned Giving £143.00. Many thanks for your generous support.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
The coffee rota is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. Please enter your name and good cause against your preferred dates. You could make £30-£50 for your chosen cause.
17 Nov               Autumn Fair
24 Nov               volunteers please
  1 Dec               Richard Curtis – Altar Servers

PRAYING TOGETHER
Please pray for

• the residents of Queen’s Crescent, Weston Grove, Lakeside Close, Dukesway, Bowyers Close, Ashfield Crescent, Glenside Close and Longdale Drive.
• the Senior Citizens Club, Food & Fun and St Vincent de Paul Society.
• all those who are retired

ASSISTED SUICIDE BILL
The Bill is to be debated in the House of Common later this month (Friday 29^th November) that would legalise assisted suicide in this country. It is extremely important that concerned citizens write to their MP to make their voice known. This vote could go either way, and we know that MPs are getting many letters from the assisted suicide lobby. The contact details for our MP are: Samantha Dixon c/o House of Commons. London. SW1AQ 0AA email: samantha.dixon.mp@parliament.uk.
There are cards available at the back of church for you to complete and send to Samantha Dixon, our MP.

THE HOLY SOULS – NOVEMBER
Please put names/donations in an envelope, marked Holy Souls, and place in the urn/ basket in front of the altar.

YOUTH SUNDAY 24 NOVEMBER
We are looking for several young volunteers to welcome, be collectors, read the readings and read the Prayers of the Faithful etc. on Youth Sunday.  If you wish to volunteer, please contact (St Theresa) Ann McCarthy, (St Columba) Denise Lusk, or either parish office.

FIRST SACRAMENTS – ST COLUMBA’S
Next Sunday 24 November we will be celebrating Youth Sunday. Children from the parish who are preparing to receive First Sacraments this school year will be enrolled in their preparation programme during the 11.00am Mass. Please pray for the children and their families at this important time in their faith journey.

SEASON OF ADVENT
“On Sunday 1st December, as we start our journey through the Season of Advent , we invite you back into St Columba’s church at 12.30pm (following 11am Mass and tea and coffee) for a short period of adoration before the Blessed Sacrament.  All are welcome and we would love for the children of the parish, especially those who are preparing to make their First Holy Communion, to be part of this time of prayer.”

BLESSING OF THE NEW LECTIONARIES
The new lectionaries will be Blessed at all Masses on the weekend of 1^st December 2024.

NEW PRAYER GROUP – LECTIO DIVINA
Lectio Divina simply means Sacred Reading and it is a way of praying through reflection on God’s word, with a leader to guide the group. Initially, the plan is to have four sessions in the weeks before Christmas on Thursdays Nov 28^th, Dec 5^th, Dec 12^th, and Dec 19^th in the Iona Chapel at 11a.m. Each session will last no more than 40 minutes, allowing a little time to introduce the process. This type of prayer group works best with a maximum of 12 people and so anyone who is interested and would like to know more/ join with no commitment, is asked to send a brief email to marilyn.coyle44@gmail.com  This will allow any information to be sent out and numbers to be kept reasonable. Lyn Coyle.

OUR AUTUMN FAIR THIS SUNDAY
In St. Columba’s Church Hall
Come along and have a hearty lunch; soup-and-a-sandwich or hotdog. Please also support the Tombola and sale stalls.

YOUTH GROUP
Our youth group will meet on Monday 18th November, starting at 7p.m. in the Iona chapel and finishing at 8.30p.m. in St. Columba’s Church Hall. All parishioners in school year 5, or older are very welcome to come along and join our happy group, learn a bit about our faith, play games, do activities, and generally have fun, snacks provided. If you need a lift, or more information, please call Denise Lusk (01244 379742).

SINFONIA
Sinfonia are having their end of year rehearsal/party on Friday 29th November 7p.m.  in the Church Hall and have again invited parishioners to attend. Last year’s event was a lovely start to the festive season with music and song. Please come along and enjoy this occasion. Tea and nibbles will be provided

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.

FR WILLIAM
Fr William is taking a few days holiday from 15^th – 22^nd November. We hope he has a well-deserved rest.

COMMUNICATIONS GROUP: WEBSITE
A tremendous amount of work has been done to improve the parish website by adding helpful information, photographs and key contact numbers. It’s now a very valuable resource for anyone wanting to know about the parish. The work is almost complete and the parish owes huge thanks to Mike Forber, who manages the website for us on an entirely voluntary basis. Do visit the website and see for yourselves. Lyn Coyle.

CAFOD FAMILY FAST DAY
 The total amount raised from the envelopes was £687.50. Thank you so much for your continued generosity. Your donations will help more people around the world learn new skills and fulfil their God-given potential.

WALK WITH ME – £1
There are copies of this Advent booklet price £1 available at the back of church.

CHESTER AID TO THE HOMELESS
With winter coming, the charity are in desperate need of the following items of clothing: Men’s Shorts; men’s joggers; men’s underwear; men’s socks. They are also looking for some men’s clothing in XXL including a few coats! Any items can be left by the foodbank boxes in our church porches or contact Alex Mosquera on 01244 506 877 who will organise collection. Thank you.

BAPTISMAL CANDLES AND CERTIFICATES
Irene Queenan is going to retire soon from the art of preparing Baptismal Candles and Certificates. If anyone would like to take over this role, please contact the office.

CHRISTMAS CARDS
Christmas cards are on sale in the Piety Shop. If anyone would like any other religious items, please ring Janet on 01244 329469 as I have a catalogue and can order the item or see Carol after Sunday morning Mass at St Theresa’s.        

SOUND SYSTEM AT ST THERESA’S
We have had a trial of a new sound system installed at St Theresa’s and the feedback so far has been very positive.

ADVENT JOURNEY – HOSTING OUR KNITTED MARY, JOSEPH & DONKEY FIGURES
To continue our Advent tradition, we’re asking households, particularly those with young children, to host our knitted Mary, Joseph and donkey for one or more nights to symbolise the journey to Bethlehem. The knitted family will arrive at St Theresa’s crib, during the Carol Service.  If you can host these small figures, they really are no trouble, please add your details to the list (in both churches’ porches) by 27th November, so we can plan the route and arrange the transfer from host to host.

CHESTER URSULINE CONVENT CLASS OF 1975
The girls who left the Ursuline Convent in 1975 (aged 16, the last but one year before the Convent closed) are marking 50 years since leaving school with a “Grand Re-union” on 25^th April 2025. We have successfully contacted quite a number, but some are proving difficult to find. Can you possibly help? Please contact Pat Riddell (nee Axon) patriddell31@aol.com   The girls who left the Ursuline Convent in 1975 (aged 16, the last but one year before the Convent closed) are marking 50 years since leaving school with a “Grand Re-union” on 25^th April 2025. We have successfully contacted quite a number, but some are proving difficult to find. Can you possibly help? Please contact Pat Riddell (nee Axon) patriddell31@aol.com  

TWO ADMINISTRATOR VACANCIES
Two Administrator vacancies, (full time: 35 hours and part time: 25 hours) have arisen within our Inter-Diocesan Fuel Management Department, which is a Catholic organisation purchasing gas, electricity, fuel oil and biomass for all Catholic Dioceses in England and Wales.  Salary: £23K to £25K (pro rata) depending on experience.  Further details can be found via our Diocesan website https://www.dioceseofshrewsbury.org/latest-vacancies/ completed application should be sent to Pauline McCulloch, recruitment@dioceseofshrewsbury.org   Closing date Friday 29 November 2024. 

BUILDING WORKS
Most of the outside work has now been completed, just a few finishing touches to be made. The internal decorating has not yet been started but this should take place in the next few weeks.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
Think big thoughts, but relish the small pleasures. H Jackson Brown Jr.

HELP AT HOME
A parishioner requires 1 hours help on Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays from 9.30a.m. to 10.30a.m. No cleaning. Just a few light duties. Please ring 01244 370310 for more information. 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 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 24^th November 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 9.00a.m. on WEDNESDAY 20 November 2024.