Read more about Deacon Lawrence’s retirment and a message re the Assisted Dying Bill…
Deacon Lawrence
After 24 years of devoted service to our parish, Deacon Lawrence has retired from active ministry. To express the gratitude and affection of the whole parish community, a presentation was made to him in St Columba’s Hall following the 11.00a.m. Mass on Sunday 19th July. Many parishioners attended to show their thanks, respect and affection for Deacon Lawrence and his wife, Eileen.
Please click on the slideshow below to see some of the photos courtesy of Kevin Keegan
Statement on the re-introduction of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill June 16, 2026
Archbishop John Sherrington has expressed profound regret that the Terminally Ill Adults
(End of Life) Bill will return to parliament this Autumn, having failed to become law earlier this
year. Responding to the announcement, Archbishop John, the Lead Bishop for Life Issues
for the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales said:
“I am deeply disappointed that the previously unsuccessful Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life)
Bill is being reintroduced in the House of Commons. It is likely to be debated in September.
“The Catholic Church opposes this Bill in principle and joins with many other people of faith
and none in arguing that we should not cross this watershed.
“The recent debate about this Bill showed how many people found the proposed legislation,
even if they accepted it in principle, to be flawed and full of unresolved matters. The majority
in the Commons reduced between readings, the Lords identified many shortcomings and bad
legislation.
“Many professional bodies argued against this Bill, including the Royal College of Psychiatrists
and the Royal College of Physicians, whose members would be required to be involved under
the provision of the Bill. Disability rights groups, those fighting against eating disorders, and
against domestic abuse were highly concerned and considered it dangerous.
“Concerns that were raised remain unresolved. The Bill undermines freedom of conscience
for medical professionals and care workers. It also requires care homes and hospices to
participate in assisted suicide, threatening not only their future existence but also the wellbeing
of their more vulnerable staff. Reintroducing this legislation, once again, places the most
vulnerable at risk. I ask MPs to reject this Bill.
“Recent debates have exposed the uneven provision of palliative care across the country.
Surely what is now needed to help the terminally ill is an improvement in compassionate, high-
quality palliative care, and proper hospice funding. I urge a debate about priorities in
healthcare funding, especially for those living with terminal illness.
“Finally, I call on all people of goodwill to join me in work and prayer to prevent this flawed bill
from succeeding.”
Archbishop John Sherrington
Archbishop of Liverpool
Lead Bishop for Life Issues
Source: CBCEW
FRIENDSHIP THURSDAY May 14th Special guest
We are lucky to have a speaker from the group of accredited Chester City Guides who is going to talk to us about Women of Chester It will be fascinating so do come along. This group is for anyone so invite a friend or neighbour who would like an afternoon in company over coffee, tea and biscuits from 2-4 pm in the parish hall. We ask for £2 per head for expenses. We look forward to seeing you. Lyn Coyle
Friday May 15th: “We’ve Got Talent” event
**An evening of entertainment by our very own parishioners**
at 7pm in St Columba’s church hall. First half – parishioners performing. Break for sandwiches, tea/coffee. Second half – sing-a-long. Tickets £3.00 (minimum donation) from Ann McCarthy, Sue Carr or parish offices and all proceeds are for parish funds. Bring your own alcohol. Please buy your tickets in advance for catering purposes. There is a list for anyone needing a lift from St Theresa’s in the church porch.
Competition winners.
Donations from December 2025, online giving and credit/debit card changes
Click here to read more about donations.
St Columba’s & St Theresa’s Parish Christmas Party on Saturday 13th December 2025
Friendship Thursday Group
