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Newsletter 21 May 2023

19 May 2023 By amos

SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

21^ST MAY 2023

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

Sun 21 May		World Communication Day
St. Theresa’s	9.30am	Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am	Ellie Marsden. A

Mon 22 May		Dedication of The Cathedral
St. Theresa’s		Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am	Colin Boult RIP

Tue 23 May
St. Theresa’s		Private Intention
St. Columba’s		Priests’ Intentions

Wed 24 May		Our Lady Help of Christians
St. Theresa’s		Tom Groom RIP
St. Columba’s	9.30am	Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am	Novena Prayer
	10.30am	The Parish
	2.00pm	Requiem Mass for Margaret Mary Collins

Thu 25 May		St Bede the Venerable, P, D
St. Theresa’s	9.30am	St Theresa’s School
St. Columba’s		Private Intention

Fri 26 May		St Philip Neri, P
St. Theresa’s	10.00am	Mihal Krawiec RIP
St. Columba’s		The Parish

Sat 27 May		St Augustine of Canterbury, B
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm	Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm	John Humphries RIP

Sun 28 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am	RCIA Thanksgiving
St. Columba’s	11.00am	The Parish

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

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS:
Mass will be streamed from St Columba’s at 11.00am this Sunday 21^st May 2023.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

RECENTLY DECEASED:
Please remember in your prayers Claire Graham, Margaret Collins, Margaret Finnegan, Ron Wright, Stuart Worrall, Brian Kelly and Tom Groom. May the Lord console their families and friends.
Margaret Collins’s Requiem Mass is on Wednesday 24th May at 2p.m at St Columba’s. Tom Groom’s Requiem Mass is on Thursday 8^th June at 10am at St Theresa’s.

ANNIVERSARIES:
Anne Rooney, Jane Whelan, Anita Roberts, Patrick Joseph Casey.

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

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

SYNOD 2021-2024
Communion Participation Mission
The Ordinary Council of the General Secretariat of the Synod met in Rome recently to discuss and approve the Instrumentum Laboris: the working document for the participants in the first session of the Synod, to be held 4-29 October 2023 (the second and final session will be held in October 2024). This ‘General Assembly of the Synod’ in October is referred to as the celebratory phase of the synodal process, and follows the preparatory phase, in which we were consulted along with the people of God worldwide, and the subsequent phases of discernment by the bishops.
As reported in a recent parish newsletter, our Pastoral Council has been considering its own Instrumentum Laboris, so to speak; a recent meeting discussed ‘a strategy to recruit more volunteers to support in all aspects of our churches’ work.’
More news to follow!
Please continue to pray for the Synod and for our participation, walking together along the way, united in Christ, the Way, the Truth and the Life.
https://sscolumbaandtheresa.co.uk/prayer-for-the-synod/

FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONS (St Columba’s):
Today we have our second family celebrations of First Holy Communions, so the central pews will again be reserved for the children and their families. We welcome you all and pray for and congratulate these children. Isla Daltrey, Janelle Diagboya, Isla Field, Niko Hasaj, Emma Holding, Delilah Horbury, Mbongeni Kahlu, James Odunaiya, Elizabeth Simpkin, Victoria Simpkin and Florence Toop.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNIIONS (St Theresa’s):
Congratulations to the children from St Theresa’s school who made their First Holy Communion this weekend. Please pray for them and their families.

SPIRITAN’S MISSION APPEAL – 27^TH/28^THMAY:
There will be a retiring collection at all Masses over the weekend 27^th/28^th May. The Bishop endorses this collection in appreciation of the Spiritan’s service to the Parish.

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

The residents of Ormonde Road, Newton Hall Drive, Beechway, Upton Dene, Upton Grange, Wavertree Road, Western Avenue and Lloyd Place.
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.

OFFERTORY:
St Columba’s: (07/05/2023) Loose plate: £260.67; Planned Giving: £143.50; Average Weekly SO – £574.00; Candles: £33.24; Donation £10.00; w/e 14/05/2023 TBN
St Theresa’s: Loose plate & Planned Giving: £270.78; Average weekly SO – £161.
THANK YOU for all your generous support.

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

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

ANNUAL PARISH COACH TRIP – YORK:
The annual trip this year is to fabulous city of YORK on Thursday 27^th July. There’s a sheet in the front of both churches to enter your name to reserve a seat. £20 a ticket, departs St Columba’s at 09:00 and St Teresa’s at 09:15.

NEEDLES AND PINS – WED 24^th MAY:
Everyone is welcome to come along to this friendly needlecraft group in St Columba’s Hall, between 2:00p.m.- 4:00p.m. every fourth Wednesday of the month. Hope to see you.

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

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

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

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

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

SUMMER CONCERT:
Chester Deo Gratias Choir will be having their summer concert on Saturday 17^th June 7.30p.m. at All Saints in Hoole Road, Chester to support two charities Reverse Rett and Fountain of Life in Kyrgzstan. Tickets £9/£8 concessions. Free glass of wine/juice. Tel: 01244 345649 and email: centre@allsaints.church.

VOCATIONS WEEKEND FOR WOMEN (20s & 30s):
The vocations weekend for women in their 20s and 30s will be held in Liverpool on 26^th– 28^th May 2023. The weekend is organised by the Sisters, Faithful Companions of Jesus (FCJ). The theme is Discerning God’s Call In Your Life. If you are wondering about religious life, this weekend will give you insight into apostolic community, as well as chance to reflect on your personal journey and the call of God in your life.
For more information, contact Sr. Lynne fcJ at fcjvocationeurope@gmail.com or visit our website www.fcjsisters.org

HIGHLIGHT FROM THE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL:
The exam season has begun; therefore, we pray for every student in Y11 & Y13 sitting exams over the next month that they may do well and obtain the set of grades they are hoping for. We are very proud of our students who worked so hard for these exams, and to whom the COVID-19 pandemic has had a massive impact on them. Well done everyone!

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

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

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

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK:
The soul that is full of wisdom is saturated with the spray of a bubbling fountain – God himself. Hildegard of Bingen

WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER:
This Sunday sees the end of Mental Health Awareness week, which runs from May 15-21. The theme for the week has been around “anxiety”. The Mental Health Foundation says “Anxiety is a normal emotion in us all, but sometimes it can get out of control and become a mental health problem. Lots of things can lead to feelings of anxiety, including exam pressures, relationships, starting a new job (or losing one) or other big life events. We can also get anxious when it comes to things to do with money and not being able to meet our basic needs, like heating our home or buying food.” None of us knows what problems others may have. But please know that you don’t have to deal with it alone, and that help and support is available. MindUk have local and national support networks including web information, and infoline charged at local rates, 0300 123 3393. The mental health Foundation also has support and tips on its web site.

RESOURCES:
Young Minds has tips for students to help cope with exam pressure. We wish all our students taking exams over the coming months all the very best.

LOVE THE STRANGER

In light of the challenges we face in the UK, advocating for the dignity of refugees and migrants amidst a hostile environment, the Caritas Social Action Network (CSAN) which Caritas Shrewsbury is a member of, welcomes the teaching document Love the Stranger from the Department of International Affairs at the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales (CBCEW). The document speaks into this contested space and reinforces Catholic social teaching, offering guidance on a Catholic response to refugees and migrants.

‘Love the Stranger’ places the human being at the heart of our pastoral outreach, looking beyond statistics and policies to the person – each with a name, a face and a story. The document offers 24 guiding principles and has been endorsed by the Holy See, COMECE, CAFOD, CSAN and Caritas Social Action Network members. You can download Love the Stranger at https://www.cbcew.org.uk/love-the-stranger/

Caritas Shrewsbury as part of CSAN want to encourage all Catholics to reflect upon Love the Stranger and have been part of compiling an accompanying call-to-action as a toolkit to inform and assist the community as we aim to fulfil our obligation to love the stranger in the way that God intends. You can download the call to action at www.csan.org.uk/love-the-stranger-call-to-action/ and we are keen to support the use of call to action use in parishes. Please email ben.gilchrist@caritasshrewsbury.org.uk with your ideas and for more information.

Podcast 8 (of 11) on Lumen Gentium Chapters 3 & 4
Reflections on The Church
Having looked at the Council’s answer to ‘Who is the Church’, we continue our reflections on Vatican II with the next question Lumen Gentiumaddresses: ‘How is the Church?’ – what structure did Christ will for her? The answer is given in Chapters 3 and 4, where the immense, complementary vocations of Hierarchy and Laity are explored at some length. Christ is at work in both, in such a way that “…the whole Church, strengthened by each one of its members, may more effectively fulfil his mission for the life of the world” (# 37). Podcast 8 and its handouts are now available at dioceseofshrewsbury.org. A leaflet outlining the content of the podcasts is available in the parish. If you cannot access this material, or have questions and reflections, please don’t hesitate to contact Barbara on 07730 526821 or at barbara.davies@dioceseofshrewsbury.org.

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Nuala Keegan, Church Office, 01244 624019, Email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com. Hall availability can be checked by looking at St Columba’s Church website – section for Church Hall gives a calendar of events in the Hall. Then contact Sue Carr on 07553 114531 or email columbashallbookings@gmail.com to arrange booking.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER:
21st May Edition will be compiled byHarry Sweeney, Phone:01244 327462, E-mail: harrysweeney45@gmail.com. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that items are emailed or phoned to the compiler by 9.00a.m. on WEDNESDAY 24th MAY

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

Prayer for the Synod

17 May 2023 By Matthew Petts

We invite everyone to pray for the Synod and for our participation. Walking together along the way, united in Christ, the Way, the Truth and the Life.

Adsumus Sancte Spiritus:
We stand before You, Holy Spirit, as we gather together in Your name.
With You alone to guide us, make Yourself at home in our hearts; teach us the way we must go and how we are to pursue it.
We are weak and sinful; do not let us promote disorder.
Do not let ignorance lead us down the wrong path nor partiality influence our actions.
Let us find in You our unity so that we may journey together to eternal life and not stray from the way of truth and what is right.
All this we ask of You, who are at work in every place and time, in the communion of the Father and the Son, forever and ever.

Amen.

Newsletter 14 May 2023

13 May 2023 By amos

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

14TH MAY 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONS – St Columba’s
Today we have our first family celebrations of First Holy Communions so the central pews will be reserved for the children and their families. We welcome you all and pray for and congratulate these children. Rex Carey, Margo Carey, Oskar Graca, Agata Holysz, Maia Martland, Manuel Regal, Mia Regal, Daniel Regal and Thea Shallcross.

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Nuala Keegan, Church Office, 01244 624019, Email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com
Hall availability can be checked by looking at St Columba’s Church website – section for Church Hall gives a calendar of events in the Hall. Then contact Sue Carr on 07553 114531 or email columbashallbookings@gmail.com to arrange booking.

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

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER:
21st May Edition will be compiled by Rebecca Vaughan, phone:01244 318632, E-mail: rebecca_vghn@yahoo.co.uk. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and Please ensure that items are emailed or phoned to the compiler by 9.00a.m. on WEDNESDAY 17th MAY

Newsletter 7 May 2023

5 May 2023 By amos

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

7th MAY 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS:
Mass will be streamed from St Theresa’s at 9.30am. this Sunday 7^th May 2023.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

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

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

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

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

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

The residents of Churchward Close, The Wien, Mickle Trafford, Woodside Road, Oakfield Rd, Highfield Road and Foxcote Close.
For the hospitals in this area: the Countess and Wirral & West Cheshire Trust.
For doctors and nurses and all who work in the NHS.
For the patients and those who are addicted to drugs or alcohol, or who are mentally ill. Also for those we know at this time who are ill.
For all those involved in the Countess of Chester Hospitals’ Chaplaincy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Nuala Keegan, Church Office, 01244 624019, Email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com
Hall availability can be checked by looking at St Columba’s Church website – section for Church Hall gives a calendar of events in the Hall. Then contact Sue Carr on 07553 114531 or email columbashallbookings@gmail.com to arrange booking.

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

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

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

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

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER:
14^th May Edition will be compiled by Alison Wrigglesworth Phone:01244 382457, E-mail: a.wrigglesworth@outlook.com
Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that items are emailed or phoned to the compiler by 9.00a.m. on WEDNESDAY 10th MAY

Newsletter 30 April 2023

27 April 2023 By amos

FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

30^th APRIL 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday 7^th May
St. Theresa’s 9.30am Parishioners’ Ints
St. Columba’s 11.00am The Parish

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

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS:
Mass will be streamed from St Columba’s at 6.30pm. this Saturday 29 April 2023.
www.facebook.com/thecatholicparishofstcolumbaandsttheresa

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

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

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

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

PRAYING TOGETHER:
We pray for:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ST COLUMBA’S CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS
To arrange meetings etc. in either the Church, Newman Room or the Iona Chapel, please book through Nuala Keegan, Church Office, 01244 624019, Email: stcolumbaschurch2016@outlook.com
Hall availability can be checked by looking at St Columba’s Church website – section for Church Hall gives a calendar of events in the Hall. Then contact Sue Carr on 07553 114531 or email columbashallbookings@gmail.com to arrange booking.

RED MISSION BOXES, ST COLUMBA’S
If you have a Red Mission box for collection, please leave it in the sacristy. When counted I can return your box to your home. Thank you, Margaret Curtis 01244 318424.

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

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

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER:
30^th April Edition will be compiled by Muriel Green, phone: 01244 383836, E-mail: st.theresas@btinternet.com
Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that items are emailed or phoned to the compiler by 9.00a.m. on WEDNESDAY 3^rd MAY

Newsletter 21 May 2023

Prayer for the Synod

Newsletter 14 May 2023

Newsletter 7 May 2023

Newsletter 30 April 2023

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