The month of June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

THE MOST HOLY TRINITY SUNDAY

15 JUNE 2025

Sat 14 Jun
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Janet Hutcheson RIP
Sun 15 Jun			Holy Trinity. Solemnity Day of Special Prayer for Life
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Linda Theresa Barlow RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Adam, Martina, Eddie, Holly & Harry Elwell
	2.00pm		Kerala Catholic Community Mass in Syro-Malabar Rite
Mon 16 Jun
St. Theresa’s			Tracy Nixon RIP
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Janice Kemp
Tue 17 Jun
St. Theresa’s			Private Intentions
St. Columba’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
Wed 18 Jun
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		John Smith RIP
Thu 19 Jun
St. Theresa’s			Special Intentions
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Fri 20 Jun
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Joseph Russel RIP
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Sat 21 Jun
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Malankara Jacobite Syriac Orthodox Community Mass
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioner’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Anne Rooney RIP
Sun 22 Jun			Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. Solemnity
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Beryl Williams RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Kath Crogan RIP
	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 Theresa’s on Sunday 15  June at 9.30a.m. Cover is needed at St Columba’s for occasions when Tim is unavailable. (St Theresa’s have a volunteer) 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 JUNE PRAYER INTENTIONS
That the world might grow in compassion. Let us pray that each one of us might find consolation in a personal relationship with Jesus, and from his Heart, learn to have compassion on the world.  

RECENTLY DESEASED
Please remember in your prayers, Fr Marcel CSSp who died recently. 

ANNIVERSARIES
Ernest (Ernie) Alphonsus Euguene Fagan.

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: £618.96; Planned Giving £300.70; Average weekly SO £718.15. Candles: £23.72.
Thank you for your generosity.

FR WILLIAM
Fr William will be away until the end of August.  We hope he has a well earned rest.

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for
* the residents of Coniston Road, The Nook, Brook Lane, Fowler Road, Clifton Drive, Blacon Point Road and Dalton Close.
* all who come seeking to understand more about the Christian Faith.

HOLY REUNION MASS AT CHS
All the children who have recently done their FHC or are about to receive this sacrament are invited to celebrate Mass followed by light refreshments at the Catholic High School on Wednesday 25 June, 6pm. The children are welcome to wear their Communion outfits or the school uniform. Family and friends are welcome to join us. Please book your places by email to gasparinia@christofidelis.org.uk. 

ANNUAL ST COLUMBA FEAST DAY BARBECUE 15 JUNE
Come along TODAY; Sunday, for a bacon butty, burger or sausage in a bun in this annual family get together. As it’s Father’s Day, there’s a free beer included for every dad who buys a meal!

ANNUAL SUMMER PARISH COACH TRIP
On Thurs 24 July we have a coach booked to LEEDS, cost £15. Leaving 8:45 from St Columba’s and 9am from St Theresa’s. Read poster in your church porch for details. Sign-up sheets are in the front porches from this weekend. Please pay Margaret Curtis 01244 328424 or Paul Wrigglesworth 0754 286710 as soon as possible. 

CHURCH NEWS At last week’s General Audience, Pope Leo focused on Jesus Our Hope “God never gives up on us; he is always ready to accept us and give meaning and hope to our lives, however hopeless our situation may seem and however insignificant our merits may appear.” The Pope recalled Jesus’ Parable of the workers of the last hour, in which the landowner who gives the same wage even to the workers of the eleventh hour as to those who arrived much earlier, illustrates the Lord’s immense mercy. Respond with enthusiasm to the Lord who calls us to work in His vineyard,” he said, “Don’t postpone—roll up your sleeves, because the Lord is generous and you won’t be disappointed!…Even in the dark moments of life, when time passes without giving us the answers we seek, let us ask the Lord to come out again and find us where we are waiting for Him,” for “He is generous, and He will come soon!” Deborah Castellano Lubov – Vatican News Website

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” Arthur Ashe

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
The coffee rota is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. Just write your name, charity and phone number on the calendar. 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.
15 June – St Columba’s Feast Day – Annual BARBECUE
22 June – volunteers please
29 June – volunteers please

SVP CAKE AND COFFEE MORNING
The SVP will be holding a coffee and cake morning after the 9.30 Mass at St Theresa’s on Sunday 29 June. Cakes available to eat in or take home!! 

YOUTH GROUP
Our next meeting is tomorrow, Monday 16 June. We are meeting at St. Theresa’s, starting in the peace garden at 7pm and finishing at 8.30pm. All young parishioners school year 5, or older are very welcome to join us. if you need a lift to St. Theresa’s from St. Columba’s please phone Denise Lusk on 01244 379742, by Sunday evening.

ST. WERBURGH’S 150th ANNIVERSARY
This will be celebrated in December this year. Details of  events in the coming week are on the notice board in both churches.

Next week; “St Werburgh’s is holding a summer fete on Saturday 21 June between 12:00 and 3:00 to raise money for the Hospice. All the church, gardens and house are open and we’d love to welcome you all.”

DAY PILGRIMAGE
The five Chester Parishes “Trips to Shrewsbury Cathedral” 31 July is half full so please get your names and menu choices to Fr Paul at St  Werburgh’s (werburgh465@btinternet.com) if you would like to come, and tell us your choice of lunch from the selection on the flyer at the back of Church.

CHURCHES TOGETHER
TWO SAINTS -TWO ISLANDS
This is the theme for the Churches Together in Upton Fifth Sunday Service to be held at Holy Ascension Church on Sunday 29 June at 4.30 p.m.  We have been asked to read one of the Lessons so if anyone would like to do that please contact David Savage 01244 380626.

OPEN CHURCH
Saturday June 21 at St Columba’s 2-4 pm. There will be a booklet which gives a guided tour of the building, which will help you see St. Columba’s church in a new light. Coffee, tea and cake are available all afternoon in the Newman Room.  Hoping to see you there!

BLACON FESTIVAL – SATURDAY 5 JULY
Avenue Services have informed us that Blacon Festival will be using the car park next to St Theresa’s Church.  Those attending the 5pm Mass at St Theresa’s will be unable to park on the car park.  Apologies for any inconvenience caused.

TERMINALLY ILL ADULTS (END OF LIFE) BILL – Parliamentary Vote Update 
By the time you read this the vote on the proposed Bill may have already happened (13 June), making the insert in your newsletter academic—though hopefully still of interest to you. If it’s been postponed to Friday 20 June, the Bishops of England and Wales urge you to contact MP Samantha Dixon and ask her to vote against the Bill or at least abstain.
Contact Details: Samantha Dixon MP,  House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA; email: samantha.dixon.mp@parliament.uk or  Constituency Office address: The Bluecoat, Upper Northgate St, Chester CH1 4EE . 

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.

PARISH ART COMPETITION TO CELEBRATE THE JUBILEE YEAR
Create a piece of artwork which is inspired by the Jubilee themes. The deadline for entries is Friday 27 June. Winning entries will be displayed at our Parish Pastoral Council AGM on Saturday 19 July.

If anyone would like more information or has any questions, please email Amy on amyod@hotmail.co.uk

PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL
The Parish Council met on 1 May in St Theresa’s Presbytery. Reports from the various constituent groups outlining their planned activities within the context of the Parish Development Plan had been received in advance and were commented on. The main discussion of the meeting centred around the proposals for the exciting AGM on July 19 (date for your diaries) and further ways to mark the Jubilee 25 year including a special Mass to be held on Thursday 18 Sept.

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. Forms can be found in the front porches of both churches and on the website https://sscolumbaandtheresa.co.uk/i-am-new/. Thank you.

DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES THIS SUMMER
Currently we have 15 seats available on the coach, 1 seat left on the pilgrimage plane, and 3 seats left on a flight from Luton (coach travel transfer included).  For more details visit www.shrewsburypilgrimage.co.uk

FAMILY & SOCIAL GROUP STAYS AT CASTLERIGG THIS AUGUST
Castlerigg Manor is a Catholic residential youth centre in the Lake District and it’s opening its doors to family groups and social groups this August. There are single rooms, twin rooms, and large family rooms at very cheap rates. Guests have access to the grounds, chapel, games room, and lounges, with Keswick and the Lake only a short walk away. For more info director@castleriggmanor.co.uk or www.castleriggmanor.com/open

YOUTH 2000 SUMMER FESTIVAL 2025
Taking place in the grounds of Ampleforth College from Friday 22 – Monday 25 August, the Youth 2000 Summer Festival provides young adults (aged 16-35) from across the UK the opportunity to come together and explore faith, build relationships and find hope. This four-day festival includes great speakers, social time, break-out sessions, Daily Mass, 24/7 Adoration and much more! Register your place at: https://youth2000.org/events/summerfestival2025.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER
Sunday 22 June 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 notices are emailed to st.theresas@btinternet.com or phoned to the compiler by 9.00 a.m. on WEDNESDAY 18 JUNE 2025

The month of June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

PENTECOST SUNDAY

8 JUNE 2025

Saturday 7 June
St Theresa’s
9.30am – Malankara Jacobite Syriac Community Mass
5.00pm Paddy McHugh RIP

St Columba’s
6.30pm Parishioners’ Ints

Sunday 8 June – Pentecost Sunday-Day of Special prayer for the Church
St Theresa’s
9.30am Parishioners’ Intentions

St Columba’s
11.00am Michelle Fisher
2.00pm Kerala Catholic Community Mass in Syro-Malabar Rite

Monday 9 June – Mary, Mother of the Church, Mem
St Theresa’s Priests’ Intentions
St Columba’s – 10.30am Elwell Family

Tuesday 10 June
St Theresa’s Private Int
St Columba’s Catherine Sims

Wednesday 11 June – St Barnabus, Ap, M
St Theresa’s Special Intention

St Columba’s
09.30am Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
10.15am Novena Prayers
10.30am Margaret Stockley

Thursday 12 June – Our Lord Jesus Christ the Eternal High Priest
St Theresa’s – Albert Hodkinson RIP
St Columba’s – Priests’ Intentions

Friday 13 June
St Theresa’s 10.00am Joseph Russell RIP
St Columba’s The Parish

Saturday 14 June
St Theresa’s
09.30am Malankara Jacobite Syriac Community Mass
5.00pm Parishioners’ Intentions

St Columba’s
6.30pm Parishioners’ Intentions

Sunday 15 June – The Most Holy Trinity
St Theresa’s 09.30am Linda Theresa Barlow RIP

St Columba’s
11.00am Adam, Martina, Eddie, Holly, Harry & Elwell Family
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 Theresa’s on Sunday 8 June at 9.30am. Cover is needed at St Columba’s for occasions when Tim is unavailable. (St Theresa’s have a volunteer) 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 JUNE PRAYER INTENTIONS
That the world might grow in compassion. Let us pray that each one of us might find consolation in a personal relationship with Jesus, and from his Heart, learn to have compassion on the world.

RECENTLY DECEASED
Please remember in your prayers, Kath Crogan, one of the St Columba’s original parishioners. Her Funeral Service at the Chester Crematorium on Thursday 12 June at 2.00pm.

ANNIVERSARIES
Patrick Joseph Casey, Stuart Joseph Bright, Eileen Waters, Min Gannon, Linda Theresa Barlow, Bernard Martin Walsh, Albert Hodkinson, Alan Crawford.

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

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

PARISH OFFERTORY
Loose Plate: £443.19; Planned Giving £220.30; Average weekly SO £718.15. Candles: £33.06.
Thank you for your generosity.

SPIRITAN APPEAL – 8 JUNE
There will be a retiring collection TODAY 7/8 June which is Pentecost Sunday. The Congregation of the Holy Spirit came into being on Pentecost – the outpouring of the Holy Spirit with his gift. I would like to appeal to parishioners to generously support our mission to educate more younger ones in formation. William Sianyuka who is a student on Pastoral Year, will be making the appeal. Thank you.

FR WILLIAM
Fr William will be away until the end of August. We hope he has a well earned rest.

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for
• the residents of Cambridge Road, Devon Road, Yerburgh Street, Brisbane Road, Darwin Road, Chevron Hey and Chevron Close.
• For our local councillors and the work they do.
• For our Parish Council and those involved with the Arradon twinning.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION THANKSGIVING MASS
St Columba’s: All the children who received their First Holy Communion in May are coming together Sunday, 8 June at 11.00am. It is Pentecost Sunday and it is also the Parish Thanksgiving Mass. The children will sit in the two central front benches. Please continue to pray for them at this special time.

HOLY REUNION MASS AT CHS
All the children who have recently done their FHC or are about to receive this sacrament are invited to celebrate Mass followed by light refreshments at the Catholic High School on Wednesday 25 June, 6pm. The children are welcome to wear their Communion outfits or the school uniform. Family and friends are welcome to join us. Please book your places by email to gasparinia@christofidelis.org.uk.

ANNUAL ST COLUMBA FEAST DAY BARBECUE 15 JUNE
Come along and join us for a bacon butty, burger or sausage in a bun in this annual family get together. As it’s Father’s Day, there’s a free beer included for every dad who buys a meal!

ANNUAL SUMMER PARISH COACH TRIP
On Thurs 24 July we have a coach booked to LEEDS, cost £15. Leaving 8:45am from St Columba’s and 9am from St Theresa’s. Read poster in your church porch for details. Sign-up sheets are in the front porches from this weekend.

CHURCH NEWS
On Friday, 30 May, the Pope spoke of the need for peace. He especially mentioned the need to expose young people to a culture of peace. Lamenting the violence in our world and in our societies, Pope Leo said that young people need “to be able to experience the culture of life, dialogue, and mutual respect,” especially through good examples. Those who “resist the temptation to seek revenge” after having suffered injustice and violence “become the most credible agents of non-violent peace-building processes.”Non-violence, he said, “as a method and a style, must distinguish our decisions, our relationships, and our actions.”The Holy Father said the Gospel and the Church’s social doctrine are “a constant source of support for Christians in this effort,” as well as a “compass for everyone” since peacebuilding is “a task entrusted to all.” Vatican News Website

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
“Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant.” Robert Louis Stevenson.

ST. WERBURGH’S 150th ANNIVERSARY
This will be celebrated in December this year. During the year there will be several events to mark this Anniversary and parishioners from St. Columba and St. Theresa’s are warmly invited to attend. Details of events in the coming week are on the notice board in both churches.

DAY PILGRIMAGE
The five Chester Parishes are organising a Day Pilgrimage to our Cathedral in Shrewsbury as part of this Jubilee Year 2025, travelling by train from Chester, a beautiful one-hour ride down the Welsh Marches and then a 15-minute stroll to our Cathedral. 09.24 from Chester and returning from Shrewsbury at 16.25. We have 25 places for all the five Parishes together and will allocate them on a first come, first served basis. Please email Fr Paul (werburgh465@btinternet.com) if you would like to come, and tell us your choice of lunch from the selection on the flyer at the back of Church.

CHURCHES TOGETHER – TWO SAINTS – TWO ISLANDS
This is the theme of the next Churches Together Fifth Sunday Service to be held at Holy Ascension church on Sunday 29 June at 4.30 p.m. More info on notice boards.

BLACON FESTIVAL – SATURDAY 5 JULY
The annual Blacon Festival will be taking place on the car park and field next to St Theresa’s Church. Avenue Services have informed us that St Theresa’s car park will be used, so for those attending the 5pm Mass at St Theresa’s, they will be unable to park on the car park. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.

Vacancy at the Catholic High
We are looking to recruit a caretaker. Please check the school website for full details. www.christofidelis.org.uk Closing date: 3pm Friday 13 June 2025.

OPEN CHURCH SATURDAY JUNE 21
We are looking forward to a friendly afternoon from 2-4 pm when parishioners of Holy Ascension, The United Reformed Church and St Columba’s can meet informally. There will be a booklet which gives a guided tour of the building, which will help you see our church in a new light. For St Columba’s parishioners, this might be the first time you have truly explored our unique building and learned a little of its amazing history. David Savage will be on hand for those who would like to hear more. Coffee, tea and cake are available all afternoon in the Newman Room. Put the date in your diary!

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
The coffee rota is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. 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.
08 June – Sue McCarthy, SVP
15 June – St Columba’s Feast Day – Annual BARBECUE
22 June – volunteers please

PARISH ART COMPETITION TO CELEBRATE THE JUBILEE YEAR
As part of our Parish celebrations for the Jubilee Year, we are inviting parishioners and their families, along with students from our local Catholic schools, to enter our art competition by creating a piece of artwork which is inspired by the Jubilee themes.We have several age groups (4-6 years, 7-11, 12-14, 15-18 and 18+), each with cash prizes. The deadline for entries is Friday 27 June. Winning entries will be displayed at our Parish Pastoral Council AGM on Saturday 19 July. There are information sheets which may provide some inspiration for your entries available at both churches. We look forward to seeing your creativity so please do join in and support us in our celebrations of the Jubilee Year. If anyone would like more information or has any questions, please email Amy on amyod@hotmail.co.uk

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. Forms can be found in the front porches of both churches and on the website https://sscolumbaandtheresa.co.uk/i-am-new/. Thank you.

DAY OF FORMATION IN LITURGICAL PRAYER & SACRED MUSIC
A day of study, prayer, music and reflection. Led by Fr Guy Nicholls, Director of the St John Henry Newman Institute of Liturgical Music. Saturday 28 June at St Joseph’s Eucharistic Shrine, Tatton Street, Stockport, SK1 1EJ. A practical day course on understanding the Liturgy and use of Scared Music within Mass. Begins at 11am and ends with a sung Mass at 5pm. Cost £5 per person (suggested donation payable on the day). Bring a packed lunch. Tea/coffee and biscuits provided. To book or for more information, please email stockportshrine@gmail.com

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS
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? More volunteers are needed. The more volunteers we have the fewer times you would be called upon. Please consider this request seriously and if you can help out, contact the parish offices.

PEACE DOVES – A LARGE-SCALE ARTWORK AT CHESTER CATHEDRAL
Invites you to reflect on the values of peace, unity, and harmony. Each dove carries a unique message, written by visitors, schoolchildren, and community groups, and together they form a breathtaking installation that offers a serene space for contemplation and hope. Bathed in gentle, evocative lighting and at times accompanied by an original score by David Harper, the exhibit transforms the venue into a sanctuary of quiet reflection. From 2 May 2025 – 17 June 2025. No booking required.

PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL
The Parish Council met on 1 May in St Theresa’s Presbytery. Reports from the various constituent groups outlining their planned activities within the context of the Parish Development Plan had been received in advance and were commented on. The main discussion of the meeting centred around the proposals for the exciting AGM on July 19 (date for your diaries) and further ways to mark the Jubilee 25 year including a special Mass to be held on Thursday 18 Sept 18 (another date for your diaries).

YOUTH 2000 SUMMER FESTIVAL 2025
Taking place in the grounds of Ampleforth College from Friday 22 – Monday 25 August, the Youth 2000 Summer Festival provides young adults (aged 16-35) from across the UK the opportunity to come together and explore faith, build relationships and find hope. This four-day festival includes great speakers, social time, break-out sessions, Daily Mass, 24/7 Adoration and much more! Register your place at:https://youth2000.org/events/summerfestival2025.

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 9am to 2pm.
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 June edition will be compiled byAlison Wrigglesworth, phone: 07708 304246 or email: a.wrigglesworth@outlook.com. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that notices are also emailed to st.theresas@btinternet.com or phoned to the compiler by 9.00am on WEDNESDAY 11 JUNE 2025

The month of June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

1 JUNE 2025

Sat 31 May
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Barney Scalley RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Barry Taylor RIP
Sun 1 Jun			Day of Special Prayer for World Communications
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Patrick Joseph Casey RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Thank you to MJ McCarthy
	2.00pm		Kerala Catholic Community Mass in Syro-Malabar Rite
Mon 2 Jun
St. Theresa’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Eddie Elwell
Tue 3 Jun			St Charles Lwanga & Companions, Mm. Mem.
St. Theresa’s			Tom Garbutt RIP
St. Columba’s			David Traynor
Wed 4 Jun
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Charles Trainor RIP
Thu 5 Jun			St. M. Mem. Boniface, B
St. Theresa’s			Special Intentions
St. Columba’s			For brother’s successful surgery
Fri 6 Jun
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Eileen Mapp’s Intentions
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Sat 7 Jun
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Malankara Jacobite Syriac Orthodox Community Mass
	5.00pm		Paddy McHugh RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
Sun 8 Jun			Pentecost Sunday
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Michelle Fisher
	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 1 June 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 JUNE PRAYER INTENTIONS
That the world might grow in compassion. Let us pray that each one of us might find consolation in a personal relationship with Jesus, and from his Heart, learn to have compassion on the world.  

ANNIVERSARIES
Alan Crayford, Patrick Joseph Casey, Stuart Joseph Bright.

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: £467.45; Planned Giving £188.20; Average weekly SO £718.15. Candles: £33.06.
Thank you for your generosity.

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for:
* the residents of Plas Newton Lane, Wealstone Court, Surrey Road, Cairns Crescent, Hobart Way, Auckland Road and Wyndham Road
* the Deanery Synod Representatives
* all our joint services in our Churches, Schools and in the Cathedral.

SPIRITAN APPEAL- 8 JUNE
There will be a retiring collection over the weekend of 7/8 June which is Pentecost Sunday. The Congregation of the Holy Spirit came into being on Pentecost – the outpouring of the Holy Spirit with his gift. I would like to appeal to parishioners to generously support our mission to educate more younger ones in formation. William Sianyuka who is a student on Pastoral Year, will be making the appeal. Thank you.

FR WILLIAM
Fr William will be away from 3 June until the end of August.  We wish him a safe journey and hope he has a well earned rest.

PARISH ART COMPETITION TO CELEBRATE THE JUBILEE YEAR
As part of our Parish celebrations for the Jubilee Year, we are inviting parishioners and their families, along with students from our local Catholic schools, to enter our art competition by creating a piece of artwork which is inspired by the Jubilee themes.

We have several age groups (4-6 years, 7-11, 12-14, 15-18 and 18+), each with cash prizes. The deadline for entries is Friday 27th June. Winning entries will be displayed at our Parish Pastoral Council AGM on Saturday 19th July. There are information sheets which may provide some inspiration for your entries available at both churches. We look forward to seeing your creativity so please do join in and support us in our celebrations of the Jubilee Year.

If anyone would like more information or has any questions, please email Amy on amyod@hotmail.co.uk

CHURCH NEWS
Open Church Saturday June 21 – St Columba’s:
Two of the three churches who belong to Churches Together in Upton (CTU) have already had their Open Church afternoon. On June 21st, it’s our turn and we would be so pleased to see our own parishioners coming to meet fellow Christians informally and, at the same time, maybe learn something new about our unique church building. There are fascinating facts to learn about the building design and fittings, and we will have someone on hand to talk informally about these things. You are free to come for as little or as long as you wish and we hope that you will drop into the Newman Room for cake and coffee which will be available all afternoon. The car park is available but we ask everyone to use the front porch. CTU

ANNUAL ST COLUMBA FEAST DAY BARBECUE – 15 JUNE
From 11am at St Columba’s. Come along and join us for a bacon butty, burger or sausage in a bun in this annual family get together. As it’s Father’s Day, there’s a free beer included for every Dad who buys a meal!

ANNUAL SUMMER PARISH COACH TRIP
On Thurs 24 July we’re going the Leeds, for just £15. Leaving 8:45 from St C’s and 9am from St T’s. The coach will leave St Theresa’s at 08:45 and St Columba’s at 09:00. Please read poster in your church for details. Sign-up sheets are in the front porches from this weekend.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION THANKSGIVING MASS -St Columba’s
All the children who received their First Holy Communion in May are coming together next Sunday, 8 June at 11.00am. It is Pentecost Sunday and it is also the Parish Thanksgiving Mass. The children will sit in the two central front benches. Please continue to pray for them at this special time.

FRIENDSHIP THURSDAY
The next meeting is from 2-4 pm on 5 June. We have a very interesting talk for you during the second half of our time together. Please feel free to invite someone you know and remember that you do not need to be a churchgoer to come. Fr William supports this group strongly in its outreach to the community.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
The coffee rota is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. 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.
01 June – Hopeful Ugandan Hearts, Monica Hogg
08 June – volunteers please
15 June – St Columba’s Feast Day – Annual BARBECUE

ST. WERBURGH’S 150th ANNIVERSARY
This will be celebrated in December this year. During the year there will be several events to mark this Anniversary  and parishioners from St. Columba and St. Theresa’s are  warmly invited to attend. Details of  events in the coming week are on the notice board in both churches.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
“Hope is the last thing ever to be lost.” Italian Proverb.

NEWS FROM THE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
CHS Parent / Carer Tours on Monday 30 June 2025
The Catholic High School, Chester will be holding a number of scheduled tours of the school for the parents and carers of Year 5 students. These will be led by our Headteacher, Mrs McKeagney, and will give you the chance to see our school in action. Tours will be held at 10:00am, 11:15am, and 1:00pm. To book a place on one of these tours, please email WelcomeTo@christofidelis.org.uk.

Vacancy
The Catholic High School are looking to recruit a caretaker. If anyone is interested, please check the school website Vacancies – The Chester Catholic High School for full details.

THANK YOU
For your support for recent Third World projects.  As a result of Tomato plants £50 and Coffee Morning £150 we have been able to send £200 to OAKS (Overseas Aid for the Kids from Sierra Leone). Your generosity is much appreciated.

CHURCHES TOGETHER – TWO SAINTS – TWO ISLANDS
This is the theme of the next Churches Together Fifth Sunday Service to be held at Holy Ascension church on Sunday 29 June at 4.30 p.m.  More info on notice boards.

VOTIVE CANDLES – St Columba’s
You may have noticed that there is now a small notice above the stand of candles, asking for a minimum donation of 50p per candle. The St Killian system was chosen for its safety as there is no danger of a candle falling out of the stand or burning so strongly that it might injure anyone. However, safety comes at a price and sadly, the donations made so far are not paying for the cost of maintaining the system. The parish does not want to prevent anyone praying with a candle but must now ask for a minimum donation of 50p. If you can afford £1, which is the charge in most churches, it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Finance Committee

SUPPORTING THE VOCATION TO MARRIAGE AND FAMILY LIFE
Calling all those interested in supporting the vocation of marriage and family to join Jane Deegan Director of Marriage and Family Life Vocation for a retreat day to find out more about this important work and the various different ways you can help.
When: 7 June 2025 9.30am-4.00pm
Where: Parish Hall, Holy Angels Church, Wicker Lane, Hale Barnes WA15 0HG 
To Register and for More Information please contact:
Monika at monika.golembiewska@dioceseofshrewsbury.org Mobile: 07549226794 or
Jane at jane.deegan@dioceseofshrewsbury.org Mobile: 07517 906435.

DAY OF FORMATION IN LITURGICAL PRAYER & SACRED MUSIC
A day of study, prayer, music and reflection. Led by Fr Guy Nicholls, Director of the St John Henry Newman Institute of Liturgical Music. Saturday 28 June at St Joseph’s Eucharistic Shrine, Tatton Street, Stockport, SK1 1EJ. A practical day course on understanding the Liturgy and use of Scared Music within Mass. Begins at 11am and ends with a sung Mass at 5pm. Cost £5 per person (suggested donation payable on the day). Bring a packed lunch. Tea/coffee and biscuits provided. To book or for more information, please email stockportshrine@gmail.com

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS
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? More volunteers are needed. The more volunteers we have the fewer times you would be called upon. Please consider this request seriously and if you can help out, contact the parish offices.

PEACE DOVES IS A LARGE-SCALE ARTWORK AT CHESTER CATHEDRAL
which invites you to reflect on the values of peace, unity, and harmony. Each dove carries a unique message, written by visitors, schoolchildren, and community groups, and together they form a breathtaking installation that offers a serene space for contemplation and hope. Bathed in gentle, evocative lighting and at times accompanied by an original score by David Harper, the exhibit transforms the venue into a sanctuary of quiet reflection. Until 17 June 2025. No booking required. 

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. Forms can be found in the front porches of both churches and on the website https://sscolumbaandtheresa.co.uk/i-am-new/. Thank you.

PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL
The Parish Council met on 1 May in St Theresa’s Presbytery. Reports from the various constituent groups outlining their planned activities within the context of the Parish Development Plan had been received in advance and were commented on. The main discussion of the meeting centred around the proposals for the exciting AGM on July 19th (date for your diaries) and further ways to mark the Jubilee 25 year including a special Mass to be held on Thursday Sept 18 (another date for your diaries).

YOUTH 2000 SUMMER FESTIVAL 2025
Taking place in the grounds of Ampleforth College from Friday 22 – Monday 25 August, the Youth 2000 Summer Festival provides young adults (aged 16-35) from across the UK the opportunity to come together and explore faith, build relationships and find hope. This four-day festival includes great speakers, social time, break-out sessions, Daily Mass, 24/7 Adoration and much more! Register your place at https://youth2000.org/events/summerfestival2025

YOUTH MINISTRY JOB OPPORTUNITY / CASTLERIGG MANOR
Castlerigg Manor is a Catholic retreat Centre in the Lake District run by the Diocese of Lancaster Youth Service. They are looking for a Programme Leader to help look after the residential team of young interns and to lead programmes both at Castlerigg and occasionally around the area. Competitive salary, as well as accommodation and food provided. Anyone interested can contact jack@castleriggmanor.co.uk

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 8 June 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 notices are also emailed to Fr William or phoned to the compiler by 9.00 a.m. on WEDNESDAY 4 JUNE 2025

The month of May is dedicated to Blessed Virgin Mary

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

25 MAY 2025

Sat 24 May
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Frank & Mary Lally RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Cliff Peaker RIP
Sun 25 May			Sixth Sunday of Easter
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Michael Krawiec
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Colin Swinnerton RIP
	2.00pm		Kerala Catholic Community Mass in Syro-Malabar Rite
Mon 26 May			St Philip Neri, P. Mem.
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Edith Stockdale
Tue 27 May			St Augustine of Canterbury. Feast
St. Theresa’s			Private Intentions
St. Columba’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
Wed 28 May
St. Theresa’s	7.00pm		Vigil Mass for the Ascension Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Priest’s Intentions
Thu 29 May			The Ascension of the Lord. Solemnity
St. Theresa’s			Special Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Mass for the Ascension Private Intention (MB)
Fri 30 May
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Joshua, Isobel & Alex’s Intentions
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Sat 31 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Malankara Jacobite Syriac Orthodox Community Mass
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Barney Scalley RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Barry Taylor RIP
Sun 1 Jun			Seventh Sunday of Easter. Day of Special Prayer for World Communication
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Patrick Joseph Casey RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Thank you to MJ McCarthy
	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 25 May 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 MAY PRAYER INTENTIONS
For working conditions. Let us pray through work, each person might find fulfilment, families might be sustained in dignity, and that society might be humanized.

ANNIVERSARIES
Francis William Byrne, Patrick Joseph Casey

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: £514.37; Planned Giving £230; Average weekly SO £718.15. Candles: £28.80.
Thank you for your generosity.

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for:
– the residents of Ormonde Road, Newton Hall Drive, Beechway, Upton Dene, Upton Grange, Maitland Way, Canberra Way, Roebourne Rise and Melbourne Road.
– the staff and patients of the Hospice of the Good Shepherd and the local support groups.
– those who are terminally ill and those who care for them.

OFFICE CLOSURE
Please note that the office will be closed on Bank Holiday Monday 26 May as well as 27 and 28 May. Thank you.

SPIRITAN APPEAL – 8 JUNE
There will be a retiring collection over the weekend of 7/8 June which is Pentecost Sunday. The Congregation of the Holy Spirit came into being on Pentecost – the outpouring of the Holy Spirit with his gift. I would like to appeal to parishioners to generously support our mission to educate more younger ones in formation. William Sianyuka who is a student on Pastoral Year, will be making the appeal. Thank you.

SPIRITAN RETREAT
Fr William and Fr Peter will be on their annual Spiritan Retreat from the 25 – 30 May.  Fr Alphonsus will be saying Mass for us during their absence.  We wish them a peaceful and reflective time.

PARISH ART COMPETITION TO CELEBRATE THE JUBILEE YEAR
As part of our Parish celebrations for the Jubilee Year, we are inviting parishioners and their families, along with students from our local Catholic schools, to enter our art competition by creating a piece of artwork which is inspired by the Jubilee themes.

We have several age groups (4-6 years, 7-11, 12-14, 15-18 and 18+), each with cash prizes. The deadline for entries is Friday 27 June. Winning entries will be displayed at our Parish Pastoral Council AGM on Saturday 19 July. There are information sheets which may provide some inspiration for your entries available at both churches. We look forward to seeing your creativity so please do join in and support us in our celebrations of the Jubilee Year. If anyone would like more information or has any questions, please email Amy on amyod@hotmail.co.uk

CHURCH NEWS
Pope Leo’s Inaugural Homily

I was chosen, without any merit of my own, and now, with fear and trembling, I come to you as a brother, who desires to be the servant of your faith and your joy, walking with you on the path of God’s love, for he wants us all to be united in one family.

Love and unity: these are the two dimensions of the mission entrusted to Peter by Jesus.

If the rock is Christ, Peter must shepherd the flock … he is called to serve the faith of his brothers and sisters, and to walk alongside them, for all of us are “living stones” called through our baptism to build God’s house in fraternal communion…In the words of Saint Augustine: “The Church consists of all those who are in harmony with their brothers and sisters and who love their neighbour”

Tues 27 May Feast of St Augustine of Canterbury who came to England in 597 to bring the faith to the English and established the See of Canterbury. We owe him a great debt. This feast will not be publicly celebrated.
Communications Group

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
The annual BBQ will be held on the Sunday the 15 June this year to celebrate the feast of St Columba and Fathers’ day. From 11 o’clock onwards at St Columba’s. Fathers will be given a small beer for the Occasion. 
Also the annual Coach trip is to Leeds on Thursday the 24 of July. Keep a look out for further information in future newsletters and notice boards.

ANNUAL ST COLUMBA FEAST DAY BARBECUE 15 JUNE
Come along and join us for a bacon butty, burger or sausage in a bun in this annual family get together. As it’s Father’s Day, there’s a free beer included for every Dad who buys a meal!

YOUTH MINISTRY JOB OPPORTUNITY / CASTLERIGG MANOR
Castlerigg Manor is a Catholic retreat Centre in the Lake District run by the Diocese of Lancaster Youth Service. They are looking for a Programme Leader to help look after the residential team of young interns and to lead programmes both at Castlerigg and occasionally around the area. Competitive salary, as well as accommodation and food provided. Anyone interested can contact jack@castleriggmanor.co.uk

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION
Thank you to the children and parents of those who have recently made their First Holy Communion and also to those who prepared the children to receive this sacrament.

FRIENDSHIP THURSDAY: Help Please
Our next meeting is on Thursday 5 June and we need help in setting up the Hall. Our caretaker is not free and help would be appreciated in setting up 8 tables and accompanying chairs in time for the start at 2pm. We could do this at 1pm or earlier in the day at 10.30. The Hall is free all morning. I would come to unlock and help. Please contact me so that I know what time suits. Lyn Coyle marilyn.coyle44@gmail.com/ 07735574397

YOUTH 2000 SUMMER FESTIVAL 2025
Taking place in the grounds of Ampleforth College from Friday 22 – Monday 25 August, the Youth 2000 Summer Festival provides young adults (aged 16-35) from across the UK the opportunity to come together and explore faith, build relationships and find hope. This four-day festival includes great speakers, social time, break-out sessions, Daily Mass, 24/7 Adoration and much more! Register your place at https://youth2000.org/events/summerfestival2025

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
The coffee rota is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. 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.
25 May – Sue Carr, Third World – cakes
01 June – Hopeful Ugandan Hearts, Monica Hogg
08 June – volunteers please
15 June – St Columba’s Feast Day – Annual BARBECUE

NEEDLES & PINS – WEDNESDAY 28 MAY
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.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
“God cares for us, God loves all of us, and evil will not prevail! We are all in God’s hands. Therefore, without fear, united hand in hand with God and among ourselves, let us move forward.” – Pope Leo XIV

DAY OF FORMATION IN LITURGICAL PRAYER & SACRED MUSIC
A day of study, prayer, music and reflection. Led by Fr Guy Nicholls, Director of the St John Henry Newman Institute of Liturgical Music. Saturday 28 June at St Joseph’s Eucharistic Shrine, Tatton Street, Stockport, SK1 1EJ. A practical day course on understanding the Liturgy and use of Scared Music within Mass. Begins at 11am and ends with a sung Mass at 5pm. Cost £5 per person (suggested donation payable on the day). Bring a packed lunch. Tea/coffee and biscuits provided. To book or for more information, please email stockportshrine@gmail.com

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS
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? More volunteers are needed. The more volunteers we have the fewer times you would be called upon. Please consider this request seriously and if you can help out, contact the parish offices.

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. Forms can 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.

SUPPORTING THE VOCATION TO MARRIAGE AND FAMILY LIFE
Calling all those interested in supporting the vocation of marriage and family to join Jane Deegan Director of Marriage and Family Life Vocation for a retreat day to find out more about this important work and the various different ways you can help.
When: 7 June 2025 9.30am-4.00pm
Where: Parish Hall, Holy Angels Church, Wicker Lane, Hale Barnes WA15 0HG 
To Register and for More Information please contact:
Monika at monika.golembiewska@dioceseofshrewsbury.org Mobile: 07549226794 or
Jane at jane.deegan@dioceseofshrewsbury.org Mobile: 07517 906435.

PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL
The Parish Council met on 1 May in St Theresa’s Presbytery. Reports from the various constituent groups outlining their planned activities within the context of the Parish Development Plan had been received in advance and were commented on. The main discussion of the meeting centred around the proposals for the exciting AGM on July 19th (date for your diaries) and further ways to mark the Jubilee 25 year including a special Mass to be held on Thursday 18 Sept (another date for your diaries).

PEACE DOVES IS A LARGE-SCALE ARTWORK AT CHESTER CATHEDRAL
Invites you to reflect on the values of peace, unity, and harmony. Each dove carries a unique message, written by visitors, schoolchildren, and community groups, and together they form a breathtaking installation that offers a serene space for contemplation and hope. Bathed in gentle, evocative lighting and at times accompanied by an original score by David Harper, the exhibit transforms the venue into a sanctuary of quiet reflection. From 2 May 2025 – 17 June 2025. No booking required. 

LOURDES HOSPITALITY
Following a meeting held early April exploring the role of the Hospitality, you are invited to continue this reflection at a further meeting.  The meeting will take place on Wed 21 May at 7pm at St Columba’s, Plas Newton Lane, Chester CH2 1SA.  Confirm your attendance at secretary@teamshrewsbury.co.uk

PLANNED GIVING ENVELOPES 2025/2026
If you would like to Gift Aid your donation please contact St Columba’s – Kevin Keegan on 07790 758008 or email klbfb@hotmail.com,  St Theresa’s Steve Parry on 07798 676633 or email steveparry98@yahoo.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 June 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 notices are also emailed to Fr William or phoned to the compiler by 9.00 a.m. on WEDNESDAY 28 MAY 2025

The month of May is dedicated to Blessed Virgin Mary

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

18 MAY 2025

Sat 17 May			Feast
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Malankara Jacobite Syriac Orthodox Community Mass
	5.00pm		Joe Blundell RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
Sun 18 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions First Holy Communion Mass
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Stuart Worral RIP – Second Anniversary
	2.00pm		Kerala Catholic Community Mass in Syro-Malabar Rite
Mon 19 May			St Milburga, Ab, V. Mem.
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Private Intention MB
Tue 20 May
St. Theresa’s			Private Intentions
St. Columba’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
Wed 21 May			Dedication of the Cathedral. Feast
St. Theresa’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Tomasz Klimiuk
Thu 22 May
St. Theresa’s			Intentions of those who made their First Holy Communion
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Fri 23 May
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Christina O’Donnell RIP
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Sat 24 May
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Frank & Mary Lally RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Cliff Peaker RIP
Sun 25 May			Sixth Sunday of Easter
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Michael Krawiec
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Colin Swinnerton RIP
	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 Theresa’s on Sunday 18 May 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 MAY PRAYER INTENTIONS
For working conditions.  Let us pray through work, each person might find fulfilment, families might be sustained in dignity, and that society might be humanized.

RECENTLY DECEASED
Please remember in your prayers Edith Stockdale. Her funeral service will be held at St Francis Church on Tuesday 20 May at 11a.m.

ANNIVERSARIES:
George O’Hanlon, Dr Bhaskara Rajan.

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: £523.88; Planned Giving £341.15; Average weekly SO £718.15. Candles: £37.50.

SPIRITAN APPEAL – 8 JUNE
There will be a retiring collection over the weekend of 7/8 June which is Pentecost Sunday. The Congregation of the Holy Spirit came into being on Pentecost – the outpouring of the Holy Spirit with his gift. I would like to appeal to parishioners to generously support our mission to educate more younger ones in formation. William Sianyuka who is a student on Pastoral Year, will be making the appeal. Thank you.

SPIRITAN RETREAT
Fr William and Fr Peter will be on their annual Spiritan Retreat from the 25 – 30 May.  Fr Alphonsus will be saying Mass for us during their absence.  We wish them a peaceful and reflective time.

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for:

• Pray for the residents of Newry Park, Grange Road, Eversley Park, Wavertree Road, Western Avenue and Lloyd Place.
• For vocations to the ministry, Foundations for Ministry and those in current training.
• For all lay people in the varied ministries in our Churches

FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONS – St Theresa’s
Today we have our family celebrations of First Holy Communions. We welcome you all and pray for and congratulate the children.

ST COLUMBA’S COFFEE ROTA
The coffee rota is on the noticeboard in St Columba’s Hall. 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.
18 May – volunteers please
25 May – volunteers please
01 June – volunteers please

LOURDES HOSPITALITY
Following a meeting held early April exploring the role of the Hospitality, you are invited to continue this reflection at a further meeting.  The meeting will take place on Wed 21 May at 7pm at St Columba’s, Plas Newton Lane, Chester CH2 1SA.  Confirm your attendance at secretary@teamshrewsbury.co.uk

PLANNED GIVING ENVELOPES 2025/2026
If you would like to Gift Aid your donation please contact St Columba’s – Kevin Keegan on 07790 758008 or email klbfb@hotmail.com  St Theresa’s Steve Parry on 07798 676633 or email steveparry98@yahoo.com

PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL
The Parish Council met on 1 May in St Theresa’s Presbytery. Reports from the various constituent groups outlining their planned activities within the context of the Parish Development Plan had been received in advance and were commented on. The main discussion of the meeting centred around the proposals for the exciting AGM on July 19 (date for your diaries) and further ways to mark the Jubilee 25 year including a special Mass to be held on Thursday Sept 18 (another date for your diaries).

PARISH ART COMPETITION TO CELEBRATE THE JUBILEE YEAR
As part of our Parish celebrations for the Jubilee Year, we are inviting parishioners and their families, along with students from our local Catholic schools, to enter our art competition by creating a piece of artwork which is inspired by the Jubilee themes. 

We have several age groups (4-6 years, 7-11, 12-14, 15-18 and 18+), each with cash prizes. The deadline for entries is Friday 27 June. Winning entries will be displayed at our Parish Pastoral Council AGM on Saturday 19 July. There are information sheets which may provide some inspiration for your entries available at both churches. We look forward to seeing your creativity so please do join in and support us in our celebrations of the Jubilee Year. 

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. Forms can be found in the front porches of both churches and on the website. Thank you.

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER FOR SURVIVORS OF ABUSE IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH
This week we must focus our prayers and thoughts on all survivors of Abuse in the Catholic Church and all the agencies involved in breaking open this serious subject both past and present.

CHURCH NEWS
Wise and challenging words from Archbishop John Wilson, Archdiocese of Southwark, on the election of Pope Leo XIV. What the Holy Father says of himself, is true for us. He is the Servant of the servants of God, but so must we be. We must be servants of God, servants of each other, servants who bring to bear in the world the life and love and mercy of Christ. We in our own little place, time, ministry, vocation and mission, we must preside with charity. We must live with the face and heart of the loving Saviour.

VOCATIONS WEEKEND FOR WOMEN (20s and 30s)
Discerning God’s Call in your life – 23 – 25 May, Liverpool
The weekend is organised by the Sisters, Faithful Companions of Jesus (FCJ).  Jesus invites each of us to ‘Come and See’ – this weekend will give the opportunity to explore the vocation to religious life and to reflect on God’s call to you.  For more information contact
Sr Lynne fcJ at fcjvocationeurope@gmail.com or
visit our website www.fcjsisters.org. 
To register https://bit.ly/FCJVocationWeekend

PEACE DOVES AT CHESTER CATHEDRAL –  invites you to reflect on the values of peace, unity, and harmony. Each dove carries a unique message, written by visitors, schoolchildren, and community groups. The installation offers a serene space for contemplation and hope. From: 2 May 2025 – To: 17 June 2025. No booking required. 

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.

YOUTH 2000 SUMMER FESTIVAL 2025
Taking place in the grounds of Ampleforth College from Friday 22 – Monday 25 August, the Youth 2000 Summer Festival provides young adults (aged 16-35) from across the UK the opportunity to come together and explore faith, build relationships and find hope. This four-day festival includes great speakers, social time, break-out sessions, Daily Mass, 24/7 Adoration and much more! Register your place at: youth2000.org/events/summerfestival2025.

SATURDAY MAY 24
This day is the Solemnity of Our Lady, Help of Christians, who is the Principal Patron of our diocese. There is no public mass for the occasion but a private prayer to Our Lady might be a good way of marking the day.

DAY OF FORMATION IN LITURGICAL PRAYER & SACRED MUSIC
A day of study, prayer, music and reflection. Led by Fr Guy Nicholls, Director of the St John Henry Newman Institute of Liturgical Music. Saturday 28 June at St Joseph’s Eucharistic Shrine, Tatton Street, Stockport, SK1 1EJ. A practical day course on understanding the Liturgy and use of Scared Music within Mass. Begins at 11am and ends with a sung Mass at 5pm. Cost £5 per person (suggested donation payable on the day). Bring a packed lunch. Tea/coffee and biscuits provided. To book or for more information, please email stockportshrine@gmail.com

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS
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? More volunteers are needed. The more volunteers we have the fewer times you would be called upon. Please consider this request seriously and if you can help out, contact the parish offices.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER
Sunday 25 May edition will be compiled by Rebecca Vaughan, phone: 01244318632 or email: rebecca_vghn@yahoo.co.uk. Please submit notices to the compiler by 9.00 a.m. on WEDNESDAY 21 May 2025. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that notices are also emailed to Fr William.