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.

The month of May is dedicated to Blessed Virgin Mary

FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

11 MAY 2025

Sat 10 May
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		William Baker RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		John Black RIP
Sun 11 May			Fourth Sunday of Easter Special Prayer for Vocations
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Adam & Eddie Elwell
	2.00pm		Kerala Catholic Community Mass in Syro-Malabar Rite
Mon 12 May
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Bertile Newton
Tue 13 May
St. Theresa’s			Private Intentions
St. Columba’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
Wed 14 May			St Matthias, Ap. Feast.
St. Theresa’s			Tony & Robin Walsh
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Mike Craven RIP
Thu 15 May
St. Theresa’s			Special Intentions
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Fri 16 May
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Jessica Baker RIP
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Sat 17 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Malankara Jacobite Syriac Orthodox Community Mass
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Joe Blundell RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Parishioners’
Sun 18 May			Fifth Sunday of Easter
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Stuart Worral RIP Second Anniversary
	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 11 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

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
Mary Suzanne Roberts. Denzel Gordon, George O’Hanlon, Dr Bhaskara Rajan

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.

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: £615.08; Planned Giving £517.55; Average weekly SO £718.15. Candles: £20.82.

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for:

• the residents of Churchward Close, The Wien, Mickle Trafford, Bowyer’s Close, Ashfield Crescent, Glenside Close, and Longdale Drive.
• 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.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONS – St Columba’s
Today we have our second family celebrations of First Holy Communions so the central benches will be reserved for the children and their families. We welcome you all and pray for and congratulate these children: Evie, Rose, Ambrose and Aoife.

SCHOOL NEWS
Please pray for the Year 6 children in St Theresa’s school and St Werburgh’s and St Columba’s school who are doing their SATs tests from 12 – 15 May.

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.
11 May – volunteers please
18 May – volunteers please
25 May – volunteers please

YOUTH GROUP
The next youth group meeting is tomorrow, Monday 12 May, starting 7pm in the Iona chapel and finishing at 8.30pm. All young parishioners, school year 5 and above are very welcome to join our happy group.

CTU OPEN CHURCH
On Saturday 17 May, you are invited to drop in to the Holy Ascension Church on Heath Road at any time between 2 and 4.30pm for a look around the church and to get to know our fellow Christians there. Anyone is welcome and it would be good to see some parishioners from St Columba’s to support CTU. It’s very informal with the welcome addition of cup of tea, coffee and cake.

REACHING THE UNREACHED
Fr Antony, the Director of RTU, is visiting the UK in May to commemorate the centenary of the birth of Brother James Kimpton, the RTU’s founder who grew up in Chester. He will be at the 10.45am Mass at St Werburgh’s, Chester on Sunday 18 May and will give a talk. You are invited to attend that Mass to hear and meet Fr Antony.

WORLD DAY OF PRAY FOR VOCATIONS 11 May
Have you considered exploring a vocation to the diocesan priesthood in imitation of Jesus the Good Shepherd? A first step might be to speak to your parish priest or contact the diocesan vocations director at vocationsdirector@dioceseofshrewsbury.org who can help you with discernment. We have a simple website www.Shrewsburyvocations.org where you can explore more. Further resources are available at www.ukvocation.org or www.ukpriest.org.

LOURDES HOSPITALITY
Following a very positive meeting held early April, where we explored the role of the Hospitality, you are invited to continue this reflection at a further meeting.  We hope to build on the previous lively discussions and consider areas for further development.  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

PEACE DOVES
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. From: 2 May 2025 – 17 June 2025. No booking required. 

Thought for the week
“Nothing is more difficult, and therefore more precious, than to be able to decide.” – Napoleon Bonaparte

HALF MARATHON – 18 MAY
The Chester Half Marathon is taking place on Sunday 18 May and some roads may be closed.  If you usually come to St Theresa’s on a Sunday morning please check the route to see if your journey will be affected.

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 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 www.sscolumbaandtheresa.co.uk under the “I’m New” tab. Thank you.

ZUMBA MASTERCLASS IN AID OF “HOPEFUL UGANDAN HEARTS
On Saturday 17 May from 11am-1pm. £10 Adults and £5 Children 6+. Pay at the door.
We are raising funds to support two Orphanages in Uganda.  Children need to remain in school and we are helping to pay for school fees, food and rent. Come and join me Zumba with Lina for two hours of Zumba fitness and FUN!!! As always, we’ll have a Raffle, expect great prizes. Any enquiries contact Lina Greig 07837512544. 

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

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.

TERMINALLY ILL ADULTS (END OF LIFE) BILL
Following the recent Pastoral letter relating to this Bill, to find out more and write to your MP visit www.livesworthliving.org.uk, and or pick up a leaflet from the back of church.  Postcards can also be found at the back of church addressed to SPUC relating to a request to the PM to commit to long term reform of hospice and palliative care.   Should you wish to contact your MP Samantha Dixon, her address is, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA, her email address is Samantha.dixon.mp@parliament.uk . Her constituency office address is The Bluecoat, Upper Northgate St, Chester CH1 4EE.   The Health Secretary, Wes Streeting can also be contacted at the above House of Commons address and email wes.streeting.mp@parliament.uk.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER
Sunday 18 May edition will be compiled by Alison Wrigglesworth, phone: 07708 304246 or email: a.wrigglesworth@outlook.com. Please submit notices to the compiler by 9.00 a.m. on WEDNESDAY 14 May 2025. Please include a phone number in case of queries, and please ensure that notices are also emailed to Fr William.

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.

The month of May is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary

Third SUNDAY OF EASTER

4 MAY 2025

Sat 3 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Malankara Jacobite Syriac Orthodox Community Mass
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Mary Lally RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
Sun 4 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Elwell Family esp. Eddie & Adam
	2.00pm		Kerala Catholic Community Mass in Syro-Malabar Rite
Mon 5 May
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Private Intentions
Tue 6 May
St. Theresa’s			Private Intentions
St. Columba’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
Wed 7 May
St. Theresa’s			Special Intentions
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Frank Stone Jr Anniversary
Thu 8 May
St. Theresa’s			Gerard McCarthy RIP
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Fri 9 May
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Anthony Baker RIP
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Sat 10 May
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		William Baker RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		John Black RIP
Sun 11 May			Fourth Sunday of Easter
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Parishioners’ Intentions
	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 4 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

DEATH OF POPE FRANCIS
1936 – 2025
Eternal rest, grant upon him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May he rest in peace.
Amen

ANNIVERSARIES
Michael Thornber, Brian Peter Kelly, Michael Patrick Murray, Thomas William Groom, Mary Lally, John Bond.

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.

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: £1392.40; Planned Giving 452.55; Average weekly SO £718.15. Candles: 48.49.

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for:

• the residents of Arley Close, Lincoln Drive, Grasmere Road, Woodside Road, Oakfield Road, Highfield Road, and Foxcote Close.
• For the elderly and housebound
• For all who prepare the food and for those who come and enjoy the fellowship enjoyed at church meals

FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONS – St Columba’s
Today we have our first family celebrations of First Holy Communions so the central benches will be reserved for the children and their families. We welcome you all and pray for and congratulate these children.

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

YOUTH GROUP PILGRIMAGE
Well done to the Youth group members and leaders who, accompanied by Fr William, made a Jubilee Pilgrimage of hope from St. Theresa’s peace garden to the Iona chapel last Saturday. We had a lovely walk, nice conversation and prayed along the way. Many thanks to Sophia, Giovanna, Sue and Sue who baked lovely cakes and cookies to keep us going. Next youth group meeting will be on Monday 12th May, 7pm, starting in the Iona chapel, finishing 8.30pm.
Thank you to the mebers of the youth group who  volunteered to be welcomers and altar serbers at the Requiem Mass for the Pope last Wednesday.

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.
04 May – volunteers please
11 May – volunteers please
18 May – volunteers please

FRIENDSHIP THURSDAY 8 MAY
The next meeting will be from 2-4pm on Thursday, 8 May in St Columba’s Hall. We have an entertainer for part of the time, who I’m sure we will all enjoy. As usual, we ask for a donation of £2 towards running costs. Looking forward to seeing you there and any friend you may like to invite, remembering that this group is not just for churchgoers but for anyone who would enjoy some company.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
We must restore hope to young people, help the old, be open to the future, spread love.  Be poor among the poor.  We need to include the excluded and preach peace. “We will never be disillusioned or lose our way if we are guided by God” Pope Francis.

REACHING THE UNREACHED
Fr Antony, the Director of RTU, is visiting the UK in May to commemorate the centenary of the birth of Brother James Kimpton, the RTU’s founder who grew up in Chester. He will be at the 10.45am Mass at St Werburgh’s, Chester on Sunday 18 May and will give a talk. You are invited to attend that Mass to hear and meet Fr Antony.

RED BOX 2024: THANK YOU!
In 2024, St Columba’s Church raised £908.07 through our Red Boxes and donations to Missio and the Mill Hill Missionaries. Thank you! Our missionary community here at St Columba’s Church is part of a worldwide network of people supporting missionaries overseas through prayer and financial assistance. Your support of Missionary Priests, like Fr Glenn MHM working with a rural community in Tompong, Cambodia, enables people to come together to celebrate the Eucharist and to work together to improve the lives of the whole community. Visit missio.org.uk to find out more.

OPEN CHURCH AT HOLY ASCENSION
The three churches of Churches Together in Upton (CTU) are each holding an Open Afternoon when anyone is welcome to visit. It’s an informal opportunity to see the church buildings, each of which is interesting in its own way and a chance to chat with our fellow Christians over a cup of tea, coffee and cake. On Saturday 17 May, you are invited to drop in to the Holy Ascension Church on Heath Road at any time between 2 and 4.30pm. More details next week.

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.

TERMINALLY ILL ADULTS (END OF LIFE) BILL
Following the recent Pastoral letter relating to this Bill, to find out more and write to your MP visit www.livesworthliving.org.uk, and or pick up a leaflet from the back of church.  Postcards can also be found at the back of church addressed to SPUC relating to a request to the PM to commit to long term reform of hospice and palliative care.   Should you wish to contact your MP Samantha Dixon, her address is, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA, her email address is   Samantha.dixon.mp@parliament.uk . Her constituency office address is The Bluecoat, Upper Northgate St, Chester CH1 4EE.   The Health Secretary, Wes Streeting can also be contacted at the above House of Commons address and email wes.streeting.mp@parliament.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.

YOUTH 2000 SUMMER FESTIVAL 2025
Taking place in the grounds of Ampleforth College from Friday 22nd – Monday 25th 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.

BRAZILIAN COMMUNITY
Hi all, we are part of the Brazilian community in Chester and would like to invite you to pray the rosary with us. We meet on line on Thursdays at 8p.m. The rosary is prayed in Portuguese, so if you’d like to join us you are more than welcome. Please send us an email and we can send you the link for the meeting. Luciana lucianaalsina@yahoo.com  

ZUMBA MASTERCLASS IN AID OF “HOPEFUL UGANDAN HEARTS
On Saturday 17th May from 11am-1pm. £10 Adults and £5 Children 6+. Pay at the door.
We are raising funds to support two Orphanages in Uganda.  Children need to remain in school and we are helping to pay for school fees, food and rent. Come and join me Zumba with Lina for two hours of Zumba fitness and FUN!!! As always, we’ll have a Raffle, expect great prizes. Any enquiries contact Lina Greig 07837512544. 

POPE FRANCIS
The Pope’s Requiem Mass in St Peter’s Square was presided over by Cardinal Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, who will oversee the Conclave to elect a new Pope. In his homily, he highlighted the following gifts of Pope Francis, seen in his ministry and for which we shall remember him with love and gratitude

• His deep love of the Church which he wanted to be open to everyone
• He was the good shepherd close to his people until the very end
• He had an open heart towards everyone, especially the marginalised such as migrants and refugees.
• He sought to shed light on the problems of our times with the wisdom of the Gospel, encouraging Christians to live out their faith amid these challenges.
• His relentless emphasis on mercy and hope
• His call for human fraternity and his desire for global solidarity and peace.
• His care of the environment and our shared responsibility for it

Taken from Vatican News website

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER
Sunday 11 May 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 also emailed to Fr William or phoned to the compiler by 9.00 a.m. on WEDNESDAY 7 May 2025

The month of April is dedicated to The Holy Spirit

SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER

27 APRIL 2025

Sat 26 Apr
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		David Innes RIP
Sun 27 Apr			DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Colette Johnson RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Francis O’Leary
	2.00pm		Kerala Catholic Community Mass in Syro-Malabar Rite
Mon 28 Apr			St George, M. Solemnity
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Stuart Worrall RIP
Tue 29 Apr			St Catherine of Siena, V, D. Feast
St. Theresa’s			Tony & Robin Walsh
St. Columba’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
Wed 30 Apr
St. Theresa’s			Private Intentions
St. Columba’s	7.00pm		Requiem Mass Pope Francis
Thu 1 May
St. Theresa’s			Eileen Mapp’s Intentions
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Fri 2 May			St Anthanasius, B, D. Mem.
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Tom Groom RIP
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Sat 3 May
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Malankara Jacobite Syriac Orthodox Community Mass
	5.00pm		Mary Lally RIP
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
Sun 4 May			Third Sunday of Easter
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Parishioners’ Intentions
	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 27 April 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

DEATH OF POPE FRANCIS 1936 – 2025
Eternal rest, grant upon him, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May he rest in peace.
Amen

The following are words from the Vatican’s announcement of the death of Pope Francis on Monday 21 April.

“His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”

PARISH REQUIEM MASS FOR POPE FRANCIS
As a celebration of his life and as a mark of gratitude for all that he did as Pope, the Parish will hold a Requiem Mass for Pope Francis at 7 pm on Wednesday 30 April at St Columba’s Church. All are welcome to join us and make this a worthy celebration. Please note: there will be NO 10.30 Mass on Wednesday morning.

EASTER THANK YOU
Fr William, Fr Peter and Deacon Lawrence would like to thank everyone for their participation in the services over Easter and to all those who helped in any way with the preparations.

RECENTLY DECEASED
Long standing parishioners of St Columba’s may remember Sarsfield McDonald, who died on 16 April. Sarsfield’s Requiem is on Thursday 1 May at St Francis’ Church at 9.30am. Please pray for him.

ANNIVERSARIES
Michael Thornber, Brian Peter Kelly, Michael Patrick Murray, Thomas William Groom, Mary Lally, John Bond.

POPE’S APRIL PRAYER INTENTIONS
For the use of the new technologies. Let us pray that the use of the new technologies will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times.

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: TBC; Planned Giving TBC; Average weekly SO £718.15. Candles: TBC.

SOCIETY OF AFRICAN MISSIONS COLLECTION
Many thanks for the amount of £829.94 which was collected for this recent appeal.  Your generosity is much appreciated.

PRAYING TOGETHER
Pray for:

• the residents of Abbots Park, Milbourne Close, Neston Drive, Imperial Avenue, Embassy Close, Bristol Close and Virginia Drive.
• Sewing Groups.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONS – St Columba’s
On Sunday 4 May and Sunday 11 May at the 11am Mass, children from the parish will be making their First Holy Communions. The central benches in chuch will be reserved for the children and their families on these occasions.

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.
27 April  – volunteers please
04 May   – volunteers please

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
“Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”  Forrest Gump (film character) 

Youth Group Jubilee 25 Walk – Pilgrims of Hope
Saturday, 26 April, some of the parish’s youth group and leaders walk from St Theresa’s to St Columba’s as part of our Jubilee 25 celebrations. They will begin their journey at 1pm from the Peace Garden at St Theresa’s and should arrive at St Columba’s by 3.00 – 3.15pm. It would be good if some parishioners could show their support either at the start or the end of the journey.

The plans for this event have been in the making for some time. Little did we know that we would be mourning the death of our Pope at this time. We do however feel that this will be a very fitting tribute to this special man.

TERMINALLY ILL ADULTS (END OF LIFE) BILL
Following the recent Pastoral letter relating to this Bill, to find out more and write to your MP visit www.livesworthliving.org.uk, and or pick up a leaflet from the back of church.  Postcards can also be found at the back of church addressed to SPUC relating to a request to the PM to commit to long term reform of hospice and palliative care.   Should you wish to contact your MP Samantha Dixon, her address is, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA, her email address is   Samantha.dixon.mp@parliament.uk . Her constituency office address is The Bluecoat, Upper Northgate St, Chester CH1 4EE.   The Health Secretary, Wes Streeting can also be contacted at the above House of Commons address and email wes.streeting.mp@parliament.uk.

TOMATO PLANTS
Red Cherry, Gardener’s Delight, Moneymaker and Tumbling Tom Red varieties of tomato plants will be on sale in the hall at St Columba’s after 11am Mass today (27 April) at 40p each or ring Pauline Payne on 01244 350323 to order. All proceeds go to our parish Third World project, the OAKS School in Bo, Sierra Leone.

FRIENDSHIP THURSDAY
The next meeting will be from 2-4pm on Thursday, 8 May. We have a guest who I’m sure we will all enjoy. As usual, we will ask for a donation of £2 towards running costs. Looking forward to seeing you there and any friend you may like to invite, remembering that this group is not just for churchgoers but for anyone who would enjoy some company. Communications group

CAFOD MYANMAR EARTHQUAKE APPEAL
Following the devastating earthquake in Myanmar, CAFOD is responding through the Catholic Church there to support families affected by the disaster. Your donations will provide essentials like water, food, solar lights, and mosquito nets. You can donate online at cafod.org.uk/myanmar or by calling 0300 999 0030. You can also text EARTHQUAKE to 70450 to donate £10.

Prayer for the people of Myanmar. Please join us in praying for the people of Myanmar and other affected areas. God, our strength and our help in times of trouble, be with your people now, in the aftermath of this earthquake. Move us to come together offering shelter for the homeless, rest to the weary comfort to the injured and distressed.

SVP APPEAL FOR WHITE GOODS
The SVP are currently supporting a person who has been rehoused. Do you have a washing machine, fridge/freezer or a free standing electric cooker that you could donate? Please contact Sue McCarthy, Mark Traynor or any member of the SVP. 07515491251. Many thanks

ZUMBA MASTERCLASS IN AID OF “HOPEFUL UGANDAN HEARTS
On Saturday 17 May from 11am-1pm. £10 Adults and £5 Children 6+. Pay at the door.
We are raising funds to support two Orphanages in Uganda.  Children need to remain in school and we are helping to pay for school fees, food and rent. Come and join me Zumba with Lina for two hours of Zumba fitness and FUN!!! As always, we’ll have a Raffle, expect great prizes. Any enquiries contact Lina Greig 07837512544. 

BRAZILIAN COMMUNITY
Hi all, we are part of the Brazilian community in Chester and would like to invite you to pray the rosary with us. We meet on line on Thursdays at 8p.m. The rosary is prayed in Portuguese, so if you’d like to join us you are more than welcome. Please send us an email and we can send you the link for the meeting. Luciana lucianaalsina@yahoo.com  

THE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
Prom Dresses and Suits Wanted: The Catholic High School is welcoming donations of dresses and suits for the upcoming ‘Prom Shop’ sale. Donations may be dropped off at the school reception – Old Wrexham Road, CH4 7HS. Thank you.

PLANNED GIVING ENVELOPES 2025/2026
The planned giving envelopes for the next financial year are now available at the back of the church.

There are also a number of blank boxes of envelopes and should you wish to use one please contact Kevin Keegan  on 07790 758008 or email at k1bfb@hotmail.com so that your details can  be added to the planned giving system.

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.

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.

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 4 May 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 30 APRIL 2025

EASTER SUNDAY 

20 APRIL 2025

The month of April is dedicated to The Holy Spirit

Sat 19 Apr			Holy Saturday Easter Vigil
St. Theresa’s			NO EVENING MASS
St. Columba’s	8.00pm		Easter Vigil Mass Michael Craven RIP
Sun 20 Apr			EASTER SUNDAY
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Children’s Liturgy Private Intention (NK)
	2.00pm		Kerala Catholic Community Mass in Syro-Malabar Rite
Mon 21 Apr			Monday of the Easter Octave
St. Theresa’s			Priests’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	10.30am		Parishioners’ Intentions
Tue 22 Apr			Tuesday of the Easter Octave
St. Theresa’s			Private Intentions
St. Columba’s			Parishioners’ Intentions
Wed 23 Apr			Wednesday of the Easter Octave
St. Theresa’s			Special Intentions
St. Columba’s	9.30am		Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
	10.15am		Novena Prayers
	10.30am		Phillip G Francis
Thu 24 Apr			Thursday of the Easter Octave
St. Theresa’s			Tony & Robin Walsh
St. Columba’s			Priests’ Intentions
Fri 25 Apr			Friday of the Easter Octave
St. Theresa’s	10.00am		Mary Scalley RIP
St. Columba’s			The Parish
Sat 26 Apr			Saturday of the Easter Octave
St. Theresa’s	5.00pm		Parishioners’ Intentions
St. Columba’s	6.30pm		David Innes RIP
Sun 27 Apr			Divine Mercy Sunday
St. Theresa’s	9.30am		Colette Johnson RIP
St. Columba’s	11.00am		Francis O’Leary
	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 20  April 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

EASTER WISHES
Fr William and Fr Peter would like to wish all parishioners a Happy Easter. The Lord has risen. Hallelujah!

PARISH OFFICES
Will be closed from Thursday 17 April until Tuesday 22 April.

THE EASTER VIGIL
The Easter Vigil is the heart of the Church’s liturgical year. It is full of symbolism, the most vivid being the image of Christ the Light of the World conquering the darkness of sin and death. It begins in the dark, outside the church, where it might be hard to see or hear. For those lighting the fire, there may be some nerves should the weather be windy. But out of this, there is a certain wonder as the procession begins into a darkened church with the Deacon or Priest carrying the Paschal Candle, singing Lumen Christi – the Light of Christ. Gradually the people enter, and their candles are lit from the Paschal Candle. The Light of Christ spreads throughout the church, Christ’s light shattering the darkness.

ANNIVERSARIES
James Rogerson, Sheila Ann Gilfoyle, William James Hinde, Gerald O’Hanlon, John Bernard Douggie, Michael Thornber.

POPE’S APRIL PRAYER INTENTIONS
For the use of the new technologies. Let us pray that the use of the new technologies will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times.

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
St Columba’s: Loose Plate: TBC; Planned Giving TBC; Average weekly SO £718.15. Candles: TBC.
St Theresa’s: Loose £171.04, Envelopes £155.20, Society of African £829.94.
Thank you for your generosity.

PRAYING TOGETHER

• Pray for the residents of Ethelda Drive, Dorfold Way, Sussex Road, Onslow Road, Springwood Close, Overwood Lane and Melverley Drive.
• For all who serve through the Anglican Diocese of Chester, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Shrewsbury and the United Reformed Church Mersey Synod.
• For our churches that they may be filled with the Holy Spirit.

SUNDAY MESSAGE
This week the readings cover only Mass on Easter Day, they do not cover the Vigil Mass. For the Vigil, please pick up one of the Triduum Booklets available in Church which will include the appropriate Readings. Thank you. 

The Easter Candle will now burn at all Masses up to and including Pentecost. It will burn during Baptisms and from it the Baptismal candles will be lit. It will stand beside the coffin during the funeral liturgy: a reminder of the Baptism of the deceased person.

TERMINALLY ILL ADULTS (END OF LIFE) BILL
Following the recent Pastoral letter relating to this Bill, to find out more and write to your MP visit www.livesworthliving.org.uk, and or pick up a leaflet from the back of church.  Postcards can also be found at the back of church addressed to SPUC relating to a request to the PM to commit to long term reform of hospice and palliative care.   Should you wish to contact your MP Samantha Dixon, her address is, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA, her email address is Samantha.dixon.mp@parliament.uk. Her constituency office address is The Bluecoat, Upper Northgate St, Chester CH1 4EE.   The Health Secretary, Wes Streeting can also be contacted at the above House of Commons address and email wes.streeting.mp@parliament.uk.

CAFOD, FAMILY EASTER PRAYER
Risen Jesus,
We rejoice that you are alive and with us.
Make us messengers of Easter joy and hope
for all the world.
Amen

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.
20 April   – Easter Sunday, volunteers please
27 April   – volunteers please
4 May    – volunteers please

CAFOD LENT FAST DAY
The total amount from envelope donations was £429. Many thanks for your continued generosity.

CHORAL MUSIC FOR EASTER – 18 APRIL AT 7PM
On the afternoon of Good Friday, 18 April, the professional group Manchester Baroque will be playing at Manchester Cathedral to perform Bach’s St. John Passion with Manchester Cathedral Choir, one of the most moving pieces of music ever written, performed for the occasion in the Church calendar for which it was originally written. Manchester Cathedral has disabled facilities including disabled toilets and seating with extra legroom.  During the interval, a bar will also be available to purchase drinks. Tickets for all budgets start from £10 to book for the St. John Passion head to: https://shorturl.at/kowtW .You can find out more about us at www.manchesterbaroque.co.uk . If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.  Thank you very much for your assistance. Mike Emmerich.

ST THERESA’S SCHOOL KNITTED CHICK APPEAL
A huge thank you to everyone who knitted chicks for the school’s Easter appeal. The sale of knitted chicks with their chocolate egg inserts raises a whopping £200.00. THANK YOU!

NEEDLES & PINS – WEDNESDAY 23 APRIL
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
“Bloom where you are planted”, St Francis De Sales

CAFOD MYANMAR EARTHQUAKE APPEAL
Following the devastating earthquake in Myanmar, CAFOD is responding through the Catholic Church there to support families affected by the disaster. Your donations will provide essentials like water, food, solar lights, and mosquito nets. You can donate online at cafod.org.uk/myanmar or by calling 0300 999 0030. You can also text EARTHQUAKE to 70450 to donate £10.

Prayer for the people of Myanmar. Please join us in praying for the people of Myanmar and other affected areas. God, our strength and our help in times of trouble, be with your people now, in the aftermath of this earthquake. Move us to come together offering shelter for the homeless, rest to the weary comfort to the injured and distressed.

SVP APPEAL FOR WHITE GOODS
The SVP are currently supporting a person who has been rehoused. Do you have a washing machine, fridge/freezer or a free standing electric cooker that you could donate? Please contact Sue McCarthy, Mark Traynor or any member of the SVP. 07515491251. Many thanks

ZUMBA MASTERCLASS IN AID OF “HOPEFUL UGANDAN HEARTS
On Saturday 17 May from 11am-1pm. £10 Adults and £5 Children 6+ PAY AT THE DOOR. 
We are raising funds to support two Orphanages in Uganda.  Children need to remain in school and we are helping to pay for school fees, food and rent. Come and join me Zumba with LiNA for two hours of Zumba fitness and FUN!!! As always, we’ll have a Raffle, expect great prizes. Any enquiries contact Lina Greig 07837512544. 

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.

BRAZILIAN COMMUNITY
Hi all, we are part of the Brazilian community in Chester and would like to invite you to pray the rosary with us. We meet on line on Thursdays at 8p.m. The rosary is prayed in Portuguese, so if you’d like to join us you are more than welcome. Please send us an email and we can send you the link for the meeting. Luciana lucianaalsina@yahoo.com  

THE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
Teaching Assistant Vacancy: For information, please visit www.christofidelis.org.uk Closing date: 12pm Wednesday 23 April 2025 Applications should be returned via email to: Andrew Kilcoyne, kilcoynea@christofidelis.org.uk

Prom Dresses and Suits Wanted: The Catholic High School is welcoming donations of dresses and suits for the upcoming ‘Prom Shop’ sale. Donations may be dropped off at the school reception – Old Wrexham Road, CH4 7HS. Thank you.

PLANNED GIVING ENVELOPES 2025/2026
The planned giving envelopes for the next financial year are now available at the back of the church. There are also a number of blank boxes of envelopes and should you wish to use one please contact Kevin Keegan  on 07790 758008 or email at k1bfb@hotmail.com so that your details can be added to the planned giving system.

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^th 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.

NEXT WEEK’S NEWSLETTER
Sunday 27 April 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 TUESDAY 22 APRIL 2025