The Parish of Our Lady and St Patrick Oldham

THE MOST HOLY BODY AND BLOOD OF CHRIST
(YEAR C)
WEEK: JUNE 19TH - 25TH 2022

THE MOST HOLY BODY AND BLOOD OF CHRIST

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Pete McNamara, Angela Marshall, Joseph McConnon, Michael Tootill, Breda Barret, Joan Killeen, Thomas McLean, Frank O’Donnell, Michael Walsh, Jean Bentley
LATELY DEAD: Bronagh Smith, R. McFaul,Margaret Green, Reverend Derek Palmer, Margaret Agnes Diveney, Patricia Bridgehouse, Beatrice Maguire, Bernard Delaney, Canon Moss O’Connell, Bruce Kent
ANNIVERSARIES: Marie Polis, Veera Howells, Victor Febrero, Paul Carroll, Fermina Moniza, Juanito Moniza Jr, Michael McGladdery

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: £1,130.53
Standing Order: £734.00 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £35.00; CAFOD £25.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

PARISH TEAM MEETING
Next week we have the first Parish Team meeting since the beginning of the pandemic. We meet at 7.30 on 28th June.

Bishop Paul McAleenan, the Lead Bishop for Migration Issues, has issued a statement about deporting asylum seekers in this country to Rwanda: “Asylum seekers’ dignity must be protected and upheld”.
The UK’s plans to forcibly deport to Rwanda some of those seeking refuge in our country is shamefully illustrative of what Pope Francis has called the ‘loss of that sense of responsibility for our brothers and sisters on which every civil society is based’.
The plan is presented as a humanitarian response to combat people trafficking and smuggling yet the result will compound the suffering of those who are already victims. Crime is defeated by confronting the perpetrators not by punishing victims. This scheme will increase the difficulties of those hoping for a new beginning, and it does nothing to address the problems which cause people to flee their homes (emphases added).

LIFE IN THE SPIRIT SEMINARS
The next session of these seminars will be on Saturday, 2nd July (5-7pm) (Note the change of date). There’s a notice at the back of the church with more details.

PHOTOGRAPHIC REPORTS ON THE PARISH WEBSITE.
Steve, who kindly manages our Parish website, has put up photographic reports of the Youth Mass (a few weeks ago now) and the surprise party for my 70th birthday. It’s great to begin to have ‘past events’ that we can report on again, demonstrating the vibrancy of our Parish community. The surprise party was a tribute to the trinitarian style parish we have, and the way that all the communities worked and celebrated together. Many thanks.

DAY FOR LIFE
The Day for Life is celebrated on the third Sunday of June, which is this weekend 18/19 June. The focus this year is the care of the elderly. This theme was chosen because of the present catechesis of Pope Francis, focussing on the tragic impact which Covid has had on elderly people, the fact that elderly people are those who are most threatened by the possible legislation of Assisted Suicide and that they are most affected by the current health and social care crisis.

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
The Eucharist is not an invention of the Church: it is a part of God’s plan of salvation from the very beginning: it is prefigured in the Old Testament, seen today in the food offerings of Melchizedek, priest king of Jerusalem associated with Abraham, choose bread and wine as the offerings. It is also revealed by the prophetic action of Jesus, in feeding the multitude, before he feeds the Church with the gift that is transmitted through the centuries. The Eucharist, the Body and Blood of Christ, is our communication with the Father, in the Spirit: it is the real presence in the Church’s ‘here and now’ of the eternal God; it is Covenant, Memorial and Promise, Meal and Sacrifice, the heartbeat of the Family of Believers.

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday, 20th - St. Alban was Britain’s first saint. He died in a persecution in the middle of the 3rd century. According to the story, he was a pagan soldier who sheltered a priest and was converted. He dressed as the priest, and was executed in his place.
Tuesday 21st - St. Aloysius Gonzaga was born into a noble Italian family in 1568. He entered the Jesuits at the age of 17. He worked to help the victims of the Roman plague in 1591, but contracted it and died, aged only 23.
Wednesday 22nd -St. John Fisher was born at Beverley (Yorkshire) in 1469 and died in London in 1535. He was appointed Bishop of Rochester and combined pastoral ministry with study and writing, especially in defence of Catholic doctrine.
St. Thomas More was born in London in 1478, and died there in 1535. An Oxford scholar and an incorruptible judge, he served as Speaker and Lord Chancellor. Both he and John were drawn into conflict with Henry VIII over his remarriage and papal supremacy. Both were imprisoned and beheaded for treason.
Thursday 23rd – The Nativity of John the Baptist
Friday 24th – The Sacred Heart of Jesus

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SALFORD JOBS
Caritas Diocese of Salford is recruiting for a number of roles, including a social worker for Caritas Schools' Service, and a concierge and housing management and support worker for Morning Star temporary supported accommodation.
Find out more and apply by visiting https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/careers/
Also - Heritage Project Manager for St John the Baptist RC Church, Rochdale
Appointment type: Part-time, fixed-term contract until 30/12/2023. 14 hours per week, to be worked flexibly. Location: St John the Baptist RC Church, Rochdale, with travel in the local area. Some work will be conducted remotely. Salary: £33,670 per annum subject to pro rata (approx. £13,648 per annum). Closing Date: 12 noon on Monday 22nd June 2022. To find out more and apply, please visit https://www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/news/vacancies/

THE CARITAS BIG SLEEP OUT IS BACK!
Friday 16th September 2022 at two locations in Manchester and Bury.
Secure your place now for Caritas’ biggest annual event.
Please help us to raise awareness and money for Caritas projects at Red Door Bury; Cornerstone and Morning Star Manchester and our Young Parents’ Accommodation in Bolton and Blackburn so that we can ensure:

People have the support they need to prevent them from becoming homeless
People who do become homeless are helped into secure, safe accommodation with the support they need to make a new home
No one has to sleep rough

For further information, please go to https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/big-sleep-out-2022/
To register, please follow the link https://app.donorfy.com/form/NBJHFKD0E0/2DKS6

WORLD REFUGEE DAY – 20TH JUNE Several members of our Parish community are refugees. Hopefully, they are now beginning to feel ‘at home’ here. Certainly, they have enriched our community and have made it even more vibrant.
But we think too, this year, of the millions of refugees from Ukraine. Thankfully, CAFOD, which is a member of the global Caritas network, was able to act swiftly, providing shelter, transport, food and everyday essentials, as well as safe spaces and support for particularly vulnerable people. Thank you for your support in this effort.

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!!

TRINITY SUNDAY (YEAR C)
WEEK: JUNE 12TH - 18TH 2022

TRINITY SUNDAY

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Pete McNamara, Angela Marshall, Joseph McConnon, Michael Tootill, Breda Barret, Joan Killeen, Thomas McLean, Frank O’Donnell, Michael Walsh
LATELY DEAD: Bronagh Smith, Margaret Green, Reverend Derek Palmer, Jocelyn Marilita Dumalaog, Margaret Agnes Diveney, Patricia Bridgehouse
ANNIVERSARIES: Kenneth John Chorley, Joseph Boyle, Brigid, Jack and Gerry McConville, Mary and John Coen, Kathleen and Andrew Curran, Baby Carys Hirst, Kathy Earnshaw, Beatrice Richards, Terry Higgins, John O’Brien, Bernard and Mary Grogan, John Cartmell, Marian Mundy, Terry Mills Sr. and Jr., Marie Polis, Veera Howells, Victor Febrero

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO PETER HILTON WHO WAS 80 YEARS OLD
AND A HAPPY 70TH BIRTHDAY TO FATHER PHIL, BOTH ON 11TH JUNE.
MANY HAPPY RETURNS.

Click Father phil's picture for more photos from the celebration

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: £708.03
Standing Order: £734.00 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £10.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

PARISH TEAM MEETING
I suggest we meet at 7.30 on 28th June.

MESSAGE FROM CAFOD (DIOCESE OF SALFORD)
Thank you for your support over the last few months with our Lent and Ukraine appeals. We really are grateful for the truly generous donations we’ve received from the Catholic Community.
You will know that we don’t just look to deal with the effects of poverty, but also to tackle the causes. We continue our focus on food as we introduce our new campaign Fix the Food System. Parish Volunteers who campaign with CAFOD will be receiving information on this and more can be found on our
Fix the Food System webpage

LIFE IN THE SPIRIT SEMINARS
The next session is from 6-8pm on Friday 17th June. Fr. Samuel will be the speaker that night. The final session of these seminars will be on a Saturday, 2nd July (5-7pm) (Note the change of date). There’s a notice at the back of the church with more details.

YOUTH MASS
I have now put a photographic report of this Mass on the website. I am hoping that the young people will return to do a couple of slots (Offertory and recessional) today, 12th June, at the 10am Mass, the 46th anniversary of my ordination as a priest.

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
People often refer to the Trinity as a mystery, but a mystery (like a sacrament) is meant to tell us something about a deeper reality. The Trinity tells us something about God but also tells us something about ourselves. Because we are created in the image of God and because God is love, we yearn to belong in a community of love. We yearn to be part of the “in crowd” and to play a significant role. But this can sometimes cause problems because we don’t recognise that God’s love includes the love of difference.
One of the lessons we learn from today’s feast is that, while we acknowledge our natural need to belong, we also need to know that we can only really belong when our difference is recognised and accepted. Somehow or other we must be able to achieve the balance of enabling our children to integrate into the host community while being proud of their background and their difference. This is not just the responsibility of the parents of the children concerned but also of the host community, especially through how we nurture individual identities.
So, todays’ feast celebrates diversity and the true reconciliation of that diversity by the help of the Holy Spirit. As Pope Francis said in “Evangelii Gaudium” the “Holy Spirit… alone can raise up diversity…while… at the same time, bringing about unity.”

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday 13th June – St Anthony of Padua – Anthony originally joined the Augustinian Order but, then, became a Franciscan hoping to be sent, as a missionary to Africa. Ill health forced him to give up this idea and on his return to Italy, he found himself in a severe storm. The boat was blown off course and he landed in Sicily, There, he met with St. Francis of Assisi, who instructed him to preach rather against heresy in Padua. He became well known for his preaching ability and for his devotion to those most in need.
Tuesday 14th June –Dedication of the Cathedral.
Thursday 16th June – St. Richard of Chichester. He was born in Droitwich in 1197 and died in Dover in 1253. He was ordained a priest at 45 years old and was appointed bishop of Chichester just two years later. However, because of the King’s opposition to this appointment, he was unable to take over his diocese until 1247. He is remembered for his generosity to the poor, for the mercy he showed to sinners, and for the reform of the liturgical life of the Diocese.

QUARANT’ORE MISSION AT SALFORD CATHEDRAL
Mon 13-Fri 17 June, 10am-17:45am each day
Salford Cathedral, Chapel Street, Salford M3 5LL
The Sacrament will be exposed and there will be adoration throughout the day.

People have the support they need to prevent them from becoming homeless
People who do become homeless are helped into secure, safe accommodation with the support they need to make a new home
No one has to sleep rough

For further information, please go to https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/big-sleep-out-2022/
To register, please follow the link https://app.donorfy.com/form/NBJHFKD0E0/2DKS6

PENTECOST SUNDAY (YEAR C)
WEEK: JUNE 5TH - 11TH 2022

PENTECOST SUNDAY

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Pete McNamara, Angela Marshall, Joseph McConnon, Michael Tootill, Breda Barret, Joan Killeen, Thomas McLean, Frank O’Donnell, Michael Walsh
LATELY DEAD: George Furness, Margaret Cole, Olya Pozniak, Thomas Callaghan, Margaret Green, Reverend Derek Palmer
ANNIVERSARIES: Kenneth John Chorley, Joseph Boyle, Brigid, Jack and Gerry McConville, Albert Gough, Mary and John Coen, Kathleen and Andrew Curran, Baby Carys Hirst, Kathy Earnshaw, Beatrice Richards, Terry Higgins

CONGRATULATIONS to Paul and Eileen Crosby who celebrated their Golden Wedding anniversary this week.

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: £708.03
Standing Order: £734.00 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £130.00; Missio £212.82
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

PARISH TEAM MEETING
We really need to be meeting again as a Parish Team. I suggest we meet at 7.30 on 28th June. I am, of course, aware, that two members of the most recent team are now no longer around; Colin has died, and Terence has moved to Wales.

LIFE IN THE SPIRIT SEMINARS
The next session is from 6-8pm on Friday 10th June. Fr. Isidore will be the speaker that night. Subsequent sessions will be on each Friday night from 6-8pm, all in St. Patrick’s Church, until the final session, which will be on a Saturday, 2nd (5-7pm) (Note the change of date). There’s a notice at the back of the church with more details.

CONGRATULATIONS to all the young people who have been confirmed or who have made their First Communion this weekend. More than 80 young people were confirmed on Saturday, and three more today (Sunday), and nine young people will make their First Communion this afternoon.

THE YOUTH MASS
I have now put a photographic report of this Mass on the website. It is on the Past Events page. I am hoping that the young people will return to do a couple of slots (Offertory and recessional) on 12th June at the 10am Mass, the 46th anniversary of my ordination as a priest – Filipino choir please note that you don’t need to prepare an Offertory hymn that day!

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
Sometimes, to convey the message in a painting more appropriately, the artist will paint on two or three panels; each panel could stand alone as a painting but, really, they should all be seen together. For me, the Feast of Pentecost should always be seen as the second panel of a painting. The first panel was painted in the book of Genesis with the story of the Tower of Babel.
In that story, you hear of a people who all shared the same language, and of a people who wanted to prove their worth. They tried to build a tower that would reach heaven. It’s a story of human effort in which uniformity becomes too important. People want others to be like them so that they would fit in, and no one would be an outsider. But God’s way is different. He saw their pride and recognised their version of self-love, and he destroyed the tower and scattered them apart so that different languages developed, and they could no longer understand each other.
The story of Pentecost, on the other hand, is one of God working with humanity to enable us to achieve what we could not on our own. We hear of the Spirit enabling the apostles to communicate with people in their own languages; and there were people there from many different parts of the world.
One of the main gifts of the Spirit, therefore, is the gift of being able to communicate with people who are different from us, because we can speak their language. This isn’t simply a matter of using words but of being able to connect with and understand people who are different from us. It’s a gift that enables us to enter the lives of other people. It is, therefore, very different from the Tower of Babel, which was about gathering a community of sameness.

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday 6th June – Mary, Mother of the Church
Thursday, 9th June – Our Lord Jesus Christ, Eternal High Priest.
Saturday, 11th June: St. Barnabas. He was born in Cyprus and became a companion of St. Paul, travelling to establish churches in different places in what was then the pagan world. He finally returned to Cyprus and preached the Gospel there too. His name means ‘son of encouragement’.

GARDENING FOR WILDLIFE
The Laudato Si' Centre is launching a two-day foundation course in wildlife gardening at its base at Wardley Hall. The dates are Saturday 21st May and Saturday 1st October. The course will include practical activities to encourage wildlife and create specific habitats for wildlife corridors. The full course fee is £60 per person. If you only want to attend one day this will be £45 per person. To book or for more information please see https://northernschool.info/wildlife-gardening-laudato-si

SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER (YEAR C)
WEEK: MAY 29TH - JUNE 4TH 2022

Seventh Sunday of Easter

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Pete McNamara, Angela Marshall, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Breda Barret, Victoria Villaruz, Juanito Auxtero, Joan Killeen, Thomas McLean, Frank O’Donnell, Michael Walsh,
LATELY DEAD: Dorothy Sheeran, Doris Wild, Olya Pozn
ANNIVERSARIES: Paul Lennon, Bessie Beswick, Phil and Ellie McDermott, Dorothy Fogg, Elizabeth Anne and Fred Lees, Clifford Owen, Albert Gough

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: £672.79
Standing Order: £734.00 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £10.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

LIFE IN THE SPIRIT SEMINARS
The next session is from 6-8pm on Friday 3rd June. Fr. Isidore will be the speaker that night. Subsequent sessions will be on each Friday night from 6-8pm, all in St. Patrick’s Church, until the final session, which will be on a Saturday, 25th June at the same time (6-8pm). There’s a notice at the back of the church with more details.

FIRST COMMUNIONS
We have the final meeting for the St. Patrick’s Group on Saturday 4th June at 10am and then they will make their First Communion the next day (5th June) at 2.30pm.

CONFIRMATION PROGRAMME
There will be a celebration of confirmation next Saturday at 3pm for those who have been prepared by Fr. Callum. Then, on the next day (Sunday – the Feast of Pentecost) there will be three more confirmations during 10am Mass. I will also be doing the confirmations at St. Mary’s Failsworth on the following Saturday (June 11th), so Fr. Michael Job will be saying Mass at St. Patrick’s that day.

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
“May they all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.”
These, of course, are the words of Jesus praying for his disciples as he’s about to go to his death. But his prayer is surely for all of us too. It’s a prayer for a true communion of people, that’s to be seen in the relationship of the Trinity itself, where we can speak of oneness, even when there’s clearly difference.
The ethnic mix of many of our communities has changed so much in recent years because of the movement of peoples. And hateful racism is not simply targeted at black footballers on social media. Immediately after Brexit, the number of racist incidents rose significantly across the country and all too many people saw newcomers as unwelcome. It’s not without reason that footballers and others in this country have been ‘taking the knee’ since the killing of George Floyd in the United States.
Back in the year 2000, Pope John Paul II suggested an aim for the beginning of the millennium that he thought the rest of us might share. Like Jesus in the Gospel, his prayer was that we achieve a ‘spirituality of communion’. He described this as being able to see God shining on the face of the brothers and sisters around us, to know how to "make room" for people who are different, and to bear "each other's burdens".

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Tuesday 31st May – The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Wednesday, 1st June – St. Justin. He was born in Samaria in 110 and, on becoming a Christian, wrote two great works in defence of Christianity (the ‘Apology’ and the ‘Dialogue with Trypho’). These gave us information on the early Christian communities. In about the year 165, he was arrested and condemned to death.
Thursday 2nd June – Ss Marcellinus and Peter. They were martyred in the persecutions of Diocletian around the year 300. Peter, when he was already in prison, invited his fellow prisoner, the priest Marcellinus, to baptise their gaoler whom Peter had converted.
Friday, 3rd June: St. Charles Lwanga and Companions. Charles and 21 others all under the age of 25 were martyred by burning or beheading under a persecution of Christians of all denominations by the deviant King Mwanga of Uganda in 1885/7.

CARITAS SALFORD ANNOUNCES
REOPENING OF MORNING STAR ACCOMMODATION
Following improvement works, Caritas Salford is delighted to announce the re-opening of their Morning Star supported accommodation for people who are homeless. From this week, the Caritas team will welcome 20 single homeless men who would otherwise be housed in poor quality, unsupported temporary accommodation. Many will have been sleeping rough or ‘sofa surfing’ and will benefit from having their own room in a supported project.
Could you help by sponsoring a room at Morning Star? Please visit www.caritassalford.org.uk/service-view/morning-star-hostel/ or call 0161 817 2285.

WALK FOR CREATION
Following on from its successful climate walk last October, the Diocese of Salford has decided to hold another reflective walk this year.
The walk will take place on Sunday 2nd October. Further details will be announced in due course.

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER (YEAR C)
WEEK: MAY 22ND - 28TH 2022

Sixth Sunday of Easter

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Pete McNamara, Angela Marshall, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Breda Barret, Victoria Villaruz, Juanito Auxtero, Joan Killeen, Thomas McLean, Frank O’Donnell, Michael Walsh
LATELY DEAD: Dorothy Sheeran, Doris Wild
ANNIVERSARIES:Paul Lennon, Bessie Beswick, Phil and Ellie McDermott, Dorothy Fogg, Elizabeth Anne and Fred Lees, Clifford Owen

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: £818.29
Standing Order: £734.00 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £10.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

MESSAGE FROM THE BISHOPS’ CONFERENCE RE SUNDAY OBLIGATION
Since the beginning of the Covid pandemic, until the present time, we have shared with you our judgment that the situation of the last two years has meant that the Sunday Obligation has been impeded and has needed to be fulfilled in other ways. We thank God that this situation has now changed. The pressing challenges of the pandemic have lessened significantly. Most people have resumed the wide range of normal activities, no longer restricted by the previous Covid measures. We therefore believe that the reasons which have prevented Catholics from attending Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation no longer apply.
We understand there will still be some members of our congregations who, for reasons of health, do not feel safe enough to return to Mass. It has always been the understanding of the Church that when the freedom of any Catholic to attend Mass in person is impeded for a serious reason, because of situations such as ill health, care for the sick or legitimate fear, this is not a breach of the Sunday Obligation.

DIOCESAN MASS for LGBTQIA+ Catholics - Saturday 28th May, 4pm
St Augustine's Church, Grosvenor Square, Manchester
The next Diocesan Mass for members of the LGBTQIA+ community and their family and friends will be at St Augustine’s Church, Grosvenor Square, Manchester on Saturday 28th May at 4pm. The celebrant and preacher will be Fr Paul Daly. All are welcome.

FIRST COMMUNIONS
We have the final meeting for the St. Patrick’s Group on Saturday 4th June at 10am and then they will make their First Communion the next day (5th June) at 2.30pm.

LIFE IN THE SPIRIT SEMINARS
This series of seminars began last Friday but you can still join them. The next session is from 6-8pm on Friday 27th May. Fr. Nwachukwu will be the speaker that night. Subsequent sessions will be on each Friday night from 6-8pm, all in St. Patrick’s Church, until the final session, which will be on a Saturday, 25th June at the same time (6-8pm). There will be several different priest speakers over the course of the seminars. There’s a notice at the back of the church with more details.

CONFIRMATION PROGRAMME
This programme has now begun. For those who have enrolled, the next sessions is on Wednesday 25th May: 6th Student Session (6-8pm)

All meetings will take place at St. Edward’s Church, Lees. If you have given your name in to Fr. Callum or myself, then just turn up at the meetings on the set days.

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
As Eastertide unfolds, we feel the power and influence of the Spirit growing. This is the Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead, and the Spirit who brings the Church to birth at Pentecost. As we journey towards Pentecost - the climax of the Easter Season - we should be considering the presence of the Spirit in the Church today: the reconciler of disputes, the solver of problems, true inspiration for the family of God on our journey to the New Jerusalem! From this side, Pentecost is about promise: the Lord at the Last Supper promises that He and the Father will be "at home" with all who keep his words - and it is the Advocate, the Holy Spirit who will remind us of these and all his words. We believe that all Scripture is "inspired" - the word of the Spirit - so as we listen or proclaim this Sunday let us look for the fulfilment of the promise made by the Lord.

LAST SUNDAY’S YOUTH MASS
I hope to put a photographic report of this Mass on the website but, if any of the parents of the young people concerned do not want their child/teenager to appear, please let me know as soon as possible.

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Wednesday – 25th May – St Bede the Venerable. Bede was born in 673 and was educated by the Benedictines. He then joined the monastery and began a life of great erudition, producing many writings, particularly on Scripture and on the History of the Church in Britain. He died in 735.
Thursday 26th May – The Ascension of the |Lord (A Holyday of Obligation)
Friday 27th May – the Feast of St. Augustine of Canterbury. Augustine was a Benedictine Bishop sent to England from Rome in 597 by Pope Gregory the Great. He converted King Ethelbert and founded the see of Canterbury. He died in 605.

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY
On Friday 16 September 2022, Caritas Diocese of Salford will once again be holding its Big Sleep Out fundraising event. More details to follow.

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER (YEAR C)
WEEK: MAY 15TH - 21ST 2022

Fifth Sunday of Easter

“I give you a new commandment: love one another.”

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: £897.62
Standing Order: £734.00 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £10.00; Missio £10.19; Donation to Church £100.00;
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

DAY OF PRAYER FOR SURVIVORS OF ABUSE
Tuesday 17th May is the Day of Prayer in England and Wales for Survivors and Victims of Abuse. Please remember survivors at Mass this weekend and on Tuesday, as well as other occasions.

FIRST COMMUNIONS
We have the final meeting for the St. Patrick’s Group on Saturday 4th June at 10am and then they will make their First Communion the next day (5th June) at 2.30pm.

LIFE IN THE SPIRIT SEMINARS
This series of seminars began last Friday but you can still join them. The next session is from 6-8pm on Friday 13th May. Fr. Jude Lemeh (the Parish Priest of the Ashton parish) will be the speaker that night. Subsequent sessions will be on each Friday night from 6-8pm, all in St. Patrick’s Church, until the final session, which will be on a Saturday, 25th June at the same time (6-8pm). There will be several different priest speakers over the course of the seminars. There’s a notice at the back of the church with more details.

CONFIRMATION PROGRAMME
This programme has now begun. For those who have enrolled, the next sessions are:
Wednesday 18th May: 5th Student Session (6-8pm)
Wednesday 25th May: 6th Student Session (6-8pm)

All meetings will take place at St. Edward’s Church, Lees. If you have given your name in to Fr. Callum or myself, then just turn up at the meetings on the set days.

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
We are now closer to Ascension and Pentecost than Easter, but we are still in the Easter Season. The readings this Sunday begin to move us along too, as once more we hear the Lord at the Last Supper preparing his disciples for his departure: he does this by giving them a rule to live by, a new commandment. This commandment, “love one another”, is to be the guiding light of the community of believers after Pentecost.

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Wednesday- 18th May – St John I, Pope and Martyr. He was Pope at the beginning of the sixth century when he was imprisoned by the Arian Emperor Theodoric for not assisting in his campaign. He is honoured as a martyr.
Thursday 19th May – St. Dunstan, Bishop. He was born near Glastonbury in 909 and died in Canterbury in 988. He studied arts and literature before becoming a monk, then abbot, at Glastonbury. He was the principal agent in the restoration of English monasticism after the Viking devastations. He was renowned as a painter, musician and metal worker. He was a counsellor of kings and a zealous reforming bishop.
Friday 20th May – St. Bernadine of Siena. He was born near Siena, in Italy in 1380 and became a Franciscan monk. He was renowned as a great preacher. He died in 1444.
Saturday 21st May – St. Christopher Magallanes. He was born in Mexico to a farm family and worked as a shepherd in his youth. He was then ordained and founded schools, a newspaper and catechism centres, a carpentry shop and an electric plant. He was arrested and shot on 21st May 1927 while going to celebrate Mass. His final words were: “I forgive, with all my heart, those responsible for my death and I ask God that the shedding of my blood serves toward the peace of our divided Mexico.

JOBS ADVERT
Heritage Project Manager for St John the Baptist RC Church, Rochdale
Appointment type: Part-time, fixed-term contract until 30/12/2023. 14 hours per week, to be worked flexibly.
Location: St John the Baptist RC Church, Rochdale, with travel in the local area. Some work will be conducted remotely.
Salary: £33,670 per annum subject to pro rata (approx. £13,648 per annum)
Closing Date: 12 noon on Monday 23rd May 2022
To find out more and apply, please visit https://www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/news/vacancies/

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY
On Friday 16 September 2022, Caritas Diocese of Salford will once again be holding its Big Sleep Out fundraising event. More details to follow.

Congratulations to those who will receive their First Communion Today!

FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER (YEAR C)
WEEK: MAY 8TH - 14TH 2022

Good Shepherd Sunday

Good Shepherd Sunday

““The sheep that belong to me listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me”

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Pete McNamara, Angela Marshall, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Breda Barret, Victoria Villaruz, Juanito Auxtero, Joan Killeen, Thomas McLean, Frank O’Donnell, Michael Walsh
LATELY DEAD: Helena Archer, Babies Teddie and Jacob, Paul Baker, Gaspar Abila, Dorothea Sheeran, James Lynam
ANNIVERSARIES: Danny McGarrigle, Ann Fowkes, Dawn Cookson Martinez and baby Robbie, Catherine Duddy, Mary Bowden, Ellie McDermott, Michael and Catherine McGladdery, Roy Eaton, Francis Connelly

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: £805.09
Standing Order: £689.00 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £25.00; CAFOD £5.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

NEXT SUNDAY’S 10AM MASS, AND OUR YOUNG PEOPLE
The young people of our Parish will be organising the Liturgy next Sunday. They will be singing some of the religious music that appeals to them. They will be being apparitors, doing the Offertory procession etc. I will still be saying the Mass! It might be our ‘Sister Act’ moment!

FIRST COMMUNIONS
We have the final meeting for the Holy Rosary group next Saturday at 10am (in the church), followed by the First Communions on Sunday at 2.30pm. The St. Patrick’s Group will have their final meeting on Saturday 4th June at 10am and then make their First Communion the next day (5th June) at 2.30pm

CONFIRMATION PROGRAMME
This programme has now begun. For those who have enrolled, the next sessions are:
Wednesday 11th May: 4th Student Session (6-8pm)
Wednesday 18th May: 5th Student Session (6-8pm)
Wednesday 25th May: 6th Student Session (6-8pm)

All meetings will take place at St. Edward’s Church, Lees. If you have given your name in to Fr. Callum or myself, then just turn up at the meetings on the set days.

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
Traditionally, the fourth Sunday of Easter is known as ‘Vocations Sunday” or “Good Shepherd Sunday” when the focus has often been on encouraging vocations to the priesthood or the religious life. And we certainly need more priests and, indeed, more people who are inspired by one of the different charisms of the many religious communities. But Pope Francis has called us to be “missionary communities”, suggesting that the line from the first reading today, “I have made you a light for the nations” is addressed to all Christians, and not just to priests or religious. In his message for this Sunday he has written, “We know that the Church exists to evangelize, to go forth and to sow the seed of the Gospel in history. This mission can only be carried out if all areas of pastoral activity work together and, even more importantly, involve all the Lord’s disciples. For “in virtue of their baptism, all the members of the People of God have become missionary disciples (cf. Mt 28:19). All the baptized, whatever their position in the Church or their level of instruction in the faith, are agents of evangelization” (Evangelii Gaudium, 120) We are all called to witness to that story which gives real depth of meaning to life. This requires us to be close to others, who are different from us, so that we are changed by them, as they will hopefully be changed by us. Pope Francis spoke of shepherds who smell of their sheep. This is not achieved by remaining in Catholic enclaves, separate from the rest of the world; it requires an ability to reach out to others with a strong sense of our own identity, living the message of the cross, and always aware that God precedes us and is already in those we will meet. As the second reading says, He “will lead them (us) to springs of living water…”

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Tuesday 10th May – St. John of Avila – He was born in Cuidad Real around 1500. He became a priest and travelled through Andalusia, drawing crowds by his preaching. He played a leading role in the Council of Trent. He died in 1569.
Thursday 12th May – St Nereus and Achilleus, Martyrs. They were soldiers, who converted to Christianity and were executed. Their tomb is in a cemetery on the Via Ardiantina in Rome, where a basilica was erected in their honour.
Also on this day is the feast of St. Pancras. Who suffered martyrdom under the emperor Diocletian and was buried on the Via Aurelia. Again, a basilica has been built over his tomb. Tradition tells us that he was only 12 or 14 at the time of his death.
Saturday – 14th May – St. Matthias, Apostle. St. Matthias was chosen by the Apostles to take the place of Judas Iscariot, so that the number of Apostles might remain as twelve. Tradition has it that Matthias went on to preach in Ethiopia.

Caritas Diocese of Salford Jobs
Parish & Communities Engagement Officer for Caritas Diocese of Salford
Appointment type: Full time (37.5 hours per week)
Location: Caritas House, M4 with opportunity to work flexibly
Closing date: Monday 16 May 2022, 10am
Salary: £29,568 - £33,241
Advocacy, Policy & Research Co-Ordinator for Caritas Diocese of Salford
Appointment type: Full time (37.5 hours per week)
Location: Caritas House, M4 with opportunity to work flexibly
Closing date: Monday 16 May 2022, 10am Salary: £33,241 - £36,863
Find out more and apply: www.caritassalford.org.uk

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY
On Friday 16 September 2022, Caritas Diocese of Salford will once again be holding its Big Sleep Out fundraising event. More details to follow.

THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER (YEAR C)
WEEK: MAY 1ST - 7TH 2022

Third Sunday of Easter

“This was the third time Jesus had shown himself to the disciples after rising from the dead”

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Breda Barret, Victoria Villaruz, Juanito Auxtero, Joan Killeen, Bronagh Smith, Sue Knott, Thomas McLean, Fred Kibblewhite, Margaret Docksey, Frank O’Donnell
LATELY DEAD: Helena Archer, Saeda Twalo, James McLean, Michael Robinson
ANNIVERSARIES: Martin Lucas, Frank Norcliffe, V.L.Thomas, T.Pothen, Danny McGarrigle, Ann Fowkes, Dawn Cookson Martinez and baby Robbie

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: £674.91
Standing Order: £689.00 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £10; Indian Community £20.00; Polish Community (for Easter) £640.50.
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

ENVELOPES FOR PLANNED-GIVING
Anyone can pick up a box of envelopes for planned giving. If you want us to be able to claim back the ‘gift aid’ from the Government, you will have to write your name and address on the first envelope you put into the collection basket. You will also need to sign a ‘gift-aid’ form and hand it in to Debbie (at the 10am Mass) or to me. These forms are available at the back of the church.

HYMNS FOR THIS SUNDAY'S MASS

Entrance
1.You stood there on the shoreline
and waited in the dawn
To share with your disciples
the newness of the morn;
Be with us now, Lord Jesus,
and make your presence known:
In resurrection power
declare today your own

2.When hours of tiring labour
had brought them scant reward,
In your immense provision
they recognised their Lord;
When drudgery seems endless,
demeaning all our skill,
Let this be out contentment:
to know and do your will

3.On bread and fish they feasted
around a charcoal fire:
That resurrection breakfast
was all they could desire!
Like them, may we discover
the joy which never ends
When you, the King of glory,
count us among your friends

4.Where Simon Peter languished
in guilt and burning shame,
You spoke of restoration,
and not of endless blame;
Where sin and failure haunt us,
remind us what is true:
That we are now forgiven
and called to follow you.

Kyrie
Ky-ri-e, e-le-i-son, Ky-ri-e, e-le-i-son
Chri-ste, e-le-i-son, Chri-ste, e-le-i-son
Ky-ri-e, e-le-i-son, Ky-ri-e, e-le-i-son

Gloria:
Fr Phil :Glory to God, glory to God, glory to the Father
All : Glory to God, glory to God, glory to the Father

Chorus Fr Phil :To Him be glory forever
All : To Him be glory forever
Fr Phil :Alleluia Amen
All: Alleluia Amen, Alleluia Amen, Alleluia Amen

2. Fr Phil : Glory to God, glory to God, Son of the Father
All : Glory to God, glory to God, Son of the Father

3. Fr Phil : Glory to God, glory to God, glory to the Spirit
All : Glory to God, glory to God, glory to the Spirit

Gospel Acc.
Parishudhan Mahonnatha Devan..
Paramengum vilangum maheshan..
Swargeeya sainyangal
vazhthi sthuthikkunna…
Swarloka nadhanam mishiha.
Ha--- Halleluia (x7)
Ha Aa Amen.

Offertory
Osthiyil Vaazhum Daivame..
Snehathin Avatharame..
Athmavin Bhojaname......
Aradhana Pathrame..(x2)

Ella Namathilum Nerayi Njangal
Nin Thirunamam Vazhtheedunnu (x2)
Ella Muzhankalum Madangeedunnu
Nin Munpil... Aadharavode (x2)

Sanctus
Oshana, Eshanu sathatham
Oshana, oshana, oshana (x2 )

Parishudhan, parishudhan, Paramashakthan
Nirandharam muzhagunnu Vanilevam
Ehaparakailavum makhileswara
Mahimayal nirayunnu nirupamame

Oshana, Eshanu sathatham
Oshana, oshana, oshana

Communion One:
1.Aaradhanakettam yogyanayavane
anashwaranaya thamburaane (x2)
ange sannidhiyil
arpikkunnee kaazhchakal (x2)
aviramam njangal paadam
aaradhana.. aaradhana.. naadha aaraadhana
aaradhana.. aaradhana.. naadha aaraadhana

2.ee thiruvosthiyil kaanunnu njan
eeshoye nin divya rupam (x2)
ee kochu jeevithamekunnu njan
ee belivediyil ennum (x2)
adhimodham njangal paadam…….aaradhana.. aaradhana.. naadha aaraadhana
aaradhana.. aaradhana.. naadha aaraadhana

3.ee nimisham ninakekidanai
yen kaiyilillonnum naadha (x2)
paapavumennude dukhangalum
thirumunbil ekunnu naadha (x2)
adhimodham njangal paadam
aaradhana.. aaradhana.. naadha aaraadhana
aaradhana.. aaradhana.. naadha aaraadhana

4.aaradhanakettam yogyanayavane
anashwaranaya thamburaane
ange sannidhiyil
arpikkum ee kaazhchakal
aviramam njangal paadam
aaradhana.. aaradhana…….naadha aaraadhana

Communion Two
1.Majesty, worship his majesty
Unto Jesus be glory, honour, and praise
Majesty, kingdom authority
Flow from his throne, unto his own: his anthem raise
So exalt, lift up on high the name of Jesus
Magnify, come glorify Christ Jesus, the Ki..ng
Majesty, worship his majesty
Jesus who died, now glorified, King of all kings

2.So exalt, lift up on high the name of Jesus
Magnify, come glorify Christ Jesus, the Ki..ng
Majesty, worship his majesty
Jesus who died, now glorified, King of all kings
Jesus who died, now glorified, King of all kings

Recessional
1.Crown Him with many crowns,
the Lamb upon His throne.
Hark! How the heav’n’ly anthem drowns
all music but its own:
Awake, my soul, and sing of Him
who died for thee,
and hail him as thy matchless King
through all eternity.

2. Crown Him the Lord of life,
who triumphed o’er the grave,
and rose victorious in the strife
for those He came to save.
His glories now we sing,
who died, and rose on high,
who died eternal life to bring,
and lives that death may die.

3.Crown Him the Lord of lords,
who over all doth reign,
who once on earth, th’incarnate Word,
for ransomed sinners slain,
now lives in realms of light,
where saints with angels sing
their songs before Him day and night,
their God, Redeemer, King

Face coverings in church are no longer required by law but we would still encourage you to wear them out of respect for people who might still feel worried.

COUNCIL ELECTIONS IN MAY
If you haven’t already registered to vote, and you are eligible to do so, you can now register by phoning 0161 770 4718.

BISHOP PAUL MCALEENAN, THE LEAD BISHOP FOR MIGRANTS AND REFUGEES for the Bishops’ Conference, has commented on the UK government’s plan to send some asylum seekers to Rwanda: “The proposal to send some of those seeking asylum to Rwanda is at odds with the line from the Prophet Isaiah which we read as we prepare for Easter, ‘He does not break the crushed reed nor quench the wavering flame’
Despite presenting the plan as a humanitarian need to combat trafficking, this scheme will compound the difficulties of those arriving on our shores hoping for a new beginning.”

CONFIRMATION PROGRAMME
This programme has now begun. For those who have enrolled, the next sessions are:
Wednesday 4th May: 3rd Student Session (6-8pm)
Wednesday 11th May: 4th Student Session (6-8pm)
Wednesday 18th May: 5th Student Session (6-8pm)
Wednesday 25th May: 6th Student Session (6-8pm)

All meetings will take place at St. Edward’s Church, Lees. If you have given your name in to Fr. Callum or myself, then just turn up at the meetings on the set days.

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
The rest of the world has settled back to normal after Easter holidays, but we continue to dwell on the resurrection of Jesus and the growth of the Church. Today’s Gospel has many themes: the return of the Apostles to their lives before meeting Jesus, the failed fishing trip, the inability of Peter to recognise the risen Jesus, the miracle of the 153 fish, and the simple, powerful, reassuring words of Jesus to his confused disciples: “Come and have breakfast.” We can all find ourselves a place in this Gospel story, as we continue to wonder at the resurrection. The longer version of the Gospel goes on the hear Jesus asking Peter three times if he loved him, a reminder of the three times that Peter denied Jesus. But we see, in the first reading, a very different Peter, a Peter who has been made whole again and is prepared to tell the High Priest, “Obedience to God comes before obedience to men.”

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday 2nd - St. Athanasius: a Bishop of Alexandria and a fighter against Arianism, for which he was vilified and exiled several times. He died in 373.
Tuesday 3rd – St. Philip and St. James – Philip was born in Bethsaida. He became a disciple of John the Baptist but then a follower of Jesus. James was the son of Alphaeus and a cousin of the Lord. He led the early Church in Jerusalem and was martyred in 62.
Wednesday 4th – The English Martyrs – On this day in 1535, three Carthusian monks were martyred at Tyburn. They were the first of many martyrs. 42 of these have now been canonised and a further 242 declared ‘blessed’. But there were many more than that! They came of every walk of life, rich or poor, married or single, women or men. They are remembered for the example they gave of constancy in their faith and courage.

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY
On Friday 16 September 2022, Caritas Diocese of Salford will once again be holding its Big Sleep Out fundraising event. More details to follow.
Salford Cathedral Free Concert:
Cathedral Choral Scholars with Catherine Hall-Smith (pianist)
Saturday 7 May, 3pm
Salford Cathedral, Chapel Street, Salford, M3 5LL
Join Salford Cathedral’s wonderful Choral Scholars for an uplifting and varied programme of vocal music, with solos, duets and choral items guaranteed to nourish the soul on a bright May afternoon!
This one-hour, free concert will include music by Purcell, Dvorak, Paganini, Boulanger, Britten and Mendelssohn.

SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER (YEAR C)
WEEK: APRIL 24TH – 30TH 2022

“Give me your hand. Put it into my side. Doubt no longer but believe”

“Give me your hand. Put it into my side. Doubt no longer but believe”

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Breda Barret, Victoria Villaruz, Juanito Auxtero, Joan Killeen, Bronagh Smith, Sue Knott, Thomas McLean, Fred Kibblewhite, Margaret Docksey
LATELY DEAD: Dennis Gardner, John Walding, Michael Robinson
ANNIVERSARIES: Suraia Seiros, Christopher Frankland, Jeff Wright, Brenda Taylor, Martin Lucas, Fr. James Culkin, William Melia, Martin Lucas, Frank Norcliffe, V.L.Thomas, T.Pothen

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: £1,061.46
Standing Order: £689.00 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £75.00; CAFOD £10.00; Indian Community £60.00; Shrines of Palestine £142.03p; NA £30.00.
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

HYMNS FOR THIS SUNDAY'S MASS

Entrance
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty,
Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee.
Holy, holy, holy! Merciful and mighty,
God in three Persons, blessed Trinity.

Holy, holy, holy! All the saints adore thee,
casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea;
Cherubim and seraphim falling down before thee,
who wert, and art, and evermore shall be.

Holy, holy, holy! Though the darkness hide thee,
though the sinful mortal eye thy glory may not see,
only thou art holy; there is none beside thee
perfect in pow'r, in love, and purity.

Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty,
All thy works shall praise thy name in earth and sky and sea.
Holy, holy, holy! Merciful and mighty,
God in three Persons, blessed Trinity.

Kyrie
Angala tu lingue o’henda
Angala tua kulwe yela
Angala tu tetele a kandu
Etu ossy.

A Kristo tu lingue o’henda
A Kristo tua kulwe yela
A Kristo tu tetele a kandu
Etu ossy.

Gloria.
Alleluia kembo, kembo (x2)
O kembo, kembo
Kembo alleluia

1) Kembo na tata sadisi na beto kembo alleluia.
2) Kembo na muana sadisi na beta kembo alleluia.
3) Kembo na mpeve santisi na beto kembo alleluia.

Gospel Acc.
Alleluia, alleluia (x4)
Alleluia
1) Mokonzi asekwi tosepela toyembela ye alleluia.
2) Maria Madelein akendeki kotala lilita ya mokonzi.
3) Ekomaki ye eh o lilita akuti lisili lifunguami.

Offertory
1) Mabondza ma biso yamba lelo e (Everyone repeat)
Tenor: O yamba a tata yemba e
Mabondza ya bana
Tata yamba mabondza.
1st voice and bass: Eh yahwe yamba,
Eh yahwe yamba,
Eh yahwe yamba manbondza

2) Mapa ya biso yamba lelo e (Everyone repeat)
3) Vinu ya biso yamba lelo e (Everyone repeat)
4) Paroisse ya biso yamba lelo e (Everyone repeat)

Sanctus
Nso Nso Nso Nso Nso
Oseburuwa chineke nki’igwe ndi agha a a,
Nso Ebube gi juputara n’eligwe n’ala a
Hosanna (x4) n’elu kasi elu.
Odi Ngozi bu o-nye biara a
Nso N’aha Onyenweanyi – Onyenweanyi

Agnus Dei
1st voice:      Meme masumu ma nsti (x2)
Eh kimeme ya kekatula masumu ma nsti (x2)
Tenor:           Tina beto
Everyone:     Nkenda a a a a a
Nkenda o o o o o
Nkenda
Base: 1)       Kimem’a ndzambi fuila nkenda
Kimem’a ndzambi pesa ngemba

Communion One:
Eeeeyesu wangu
Nitaenda kwa nani
Nitaenda kwa nani?
Kwa nani tena?
Ni wewe unaye maneno (x2)
Ya uzima wa milele
Mungu wangu

Eeee yesu, njooni kwangu

Mwilil wangu, uuuh nitawapa uuuh
Mutakula, na mta-maliza
Njaa yeeenu, nyinyi wote
Eeee yesu, njooni kwangu

Damu yangu uuuh nitawapa uuuh
Mutakunyw, na mta-maliza
Kiu cheenu, nyinyi wote
Eeeeh yesu njooni kwangu.

Nyinyi wote uuuh, mupendane uuuh
Vile yesu, ali-wapenda
Siku zote, kwa milele
Eeeeh yesu, njooni kwangu

Communion Two
Now the green blade riseth, from the buried grain,
Wheat that in dark earth many days has lain;
Love lives again, that with the dead has been:
Love is come again like wheat that springeth green.

In the grave they laid Him, Love by hatred slain,
Thin..king that never, He would wake again,
Laid in the earth, like grain that sleeps unseen:
Love is come again like wheat that springeth green.

Forth He came at Easter, like the risen grain,
He…. that for three days, in the grave had lain;
Quick from the dead, the risen Lord is seen:
Love is come again like wheat that springeth green.

When our hearts are wintry, grieving, or in pain,
Thy…. touch can call us, back to life again,
Fields of our hearts, that dead and bare have been:
Love is come again like wheat that springeth green.

Recessional
Breathe on me, Breath of God,
fill me with life anew,
that I may love the way you love,
and do what you would do.

Breathe on me, Breath of God,
until my heart is pure,
until my will is one with yours,
to do and to endure.

Breathe on me, Breath of God,
so shall I never die,
but live with you the perfect life
for all eternity.

Face coverings in church are no longer required by law but we would still encourage you to wear them out of respect for people who might still feel worried.

FORMATION SERIES
Fr Gerard Kelly - Personal Encounter with Jesus
Wednesday 27th April 2022, 7:30pm – 9:00pm
Cathedral Centre, Salford, M3 6DP and via Zoom.
Throughout Stage Four of our Hope in the Future journey, we will have several opportunities to explore our faith and role as missionary disciples through our formation series. On Wednesday 27 April 2022, Fr Gerard Kelly will lead a reflection about having a Personal Encounter with Jesus.
Tea and Coffee will be available from 7:00pm. Following the talk there will be chance to ask questions.
To register, please visit www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/personal-encounter-with-jesus/

CONFIRMATION PROGRAMME
This programme has now begun. For those who have enrolled, the next sessions are:
Wednesday 27th April: 2nd Student Session (6-8pm,)
Wednesday 4th May: 3rd Student Session (6-8pm)
Wednesday 11th May: 4th Student Session (6-8pm)
Wednesday 18th May: 5th Student Session (6-8pm)
Wednesday 25th May: 6th Student Session (6-8pm)

All meetings will take place at St. Edward’s Church, Lees. If you have given your name in to Fr. Callum or myself, then just turn up at the meetings on the set days.

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
When Jesus appears to the disciples in the upper room on this second Sunday after his Resurrection, Thomas is with them. The first thing he does is say “Peace be with you”. We know from his visit on the previous Sunday, when Thomas wasn’t there, that this greeting of peace includes the notion of forgiveness. But, because of Thomas’ denial, Jesus brings him, in a very intimate way, back to the foot of the cross. “Put your finger here.” For his part, Thomas suddenly learns his lesson. There, metaphorically at the foot of the cross, he hears the unequivocal message, “I love you and I forgive you”. It’s this realisation that enables him to go beyond the rational to genuine belief. That’s why he’s able to say, “My Lord and my God!” It’s by being drawn out of the world of the purely rational that he’s able to know that Jesus has truly risen.

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday 25th April – St. Mark the Evangelist:
Tuesday 26th April – St. George, Patron of England: According to tradition he was a soldier in the Roman army. Saint George was a soldier of Cappadocian Greek origin and member of the Praetorian Guard for Roman emperor Diocletian, who was sentenced to death for refusing to recant his Christian faith. He became one of the most venerated saints in Christianity.
Thursday 28th April - St. Peter Chanel: He was born Pierre Louis Marie Chanel, and became a Catholic priest, missionary, and martyr. Chanel was a member of the Society of Mary or "Marists" and was sent as a missionary to Oceania. He arrived on the island of Futuna in November 1837. When the chieftain’s son asked to be baptized, persecution by the chieftain reached a climax. Father Chanel was clubbed to death.
Friday 29th April – St. Catherine of Siena: (25 March 1347 – 29 April 1380). She was a lay member of the Dominican Order, and a mystic, an activist and an author who had a great influence on Italian literature and on the Catholic Church. Canonized in 1461, she is also a Doctor of the Church.
Saturday 30th April - St. Pius V: born Antonio Ghislieri, in 1504. He became Pope and was perhaps most known for his role in the Council of Trent. He died in 1572.

COUNCIL ELECTIONS IN MAY
If you haven’t already registered to vote, and you are eligible to do so, you can now register by phoning 0161 770 4718.

EASTER SUNDAY (YEAR C)
WEEK: APRIL 17TH – 23RD 2022

easter sunday

“I saw Christ’s glory as he rose.”

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Breda Barret, Victoria Villaruz, Juanito Auxtero, Joan Killeen, Bronagh Smith, Sue Knott, Thomas McLean, Fred Kibblewhite, Margaret Docksey
LATELY DEAD: Dennis Gardner, Krystyna Biatek, Michael Teefy, John Walding
ANNIVERSARIES: Maureen Sumner, George Brierley, Robert and Mary McFall, Joaquinde Almeida, Maria Lourdes, Joan Walkden, Doreen Alicia Whitehead, George Brierley, Suraia Seiros, Christopher Frankland, Jeff Wright, Brenda Taylor

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: £1,226.73
Standing Order: £689.00 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £20.00 (Ukrainian appeal +£600 )
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

LENTEN PODCASTS
Join with us as we follow Jesus on his journey through to His Passion and listen in to our weekly meditation podcasts lasting around 15 minutes each time.

Easter Podcast

Face coverings in church are no longer required by law but we would still encourage you to wear them out of respect for people who might still feel worried.

MONDAY BREW
Those parishioners who stay behind after Mass on a Monday for a brew and a chat, need to know that there will be no brews on Easter Monday, 18th April, or on subsequent Bank Holidays.

CONFIRMATION PROGRAMME
The next programme is beginning and will culminate in a Deanery celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation at 3pm, Saturday 4th June 2022, the vigil of Pentecost, at St Patrick’s Church, Oldham.
For those who wish to enrol, there will be one (very important) introductory meeting for parents, followed by six two-hour sessions for the Year 8 candidates.
The sessions are also open to those who didn’t get the opportunity last year for whatever reason. Please give candidate’s name, and date of birth and parent/Carer’s details to your Parish Priest before Monday, 4th April.

The meetings (at the moment, depending on numbers applying) will be on Wednesday evenings:
Wednesday 6th April: Parents Meeting (6-7pm),
Wednesday 13th April: 1st Student Session (6-8pm)
Wednesday 27th April: 2nd Student Session (6-8pm,)
Wednesday 4th May: 3rd Student Session (6-8pm)
Wednesday 11th May: 4th Student Session (6-8pm)
Wednesday 18th May: 5th Student Session (6-8pm)
Wednesday 25th May: 6th Student Session (6-8pm)

All meetings will take place at St. Edward’s Church, Lees. If you have given your name in to Fr. Callum or myself, then just turn up at the meetings on the set days.

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
Today’s first reading tells us that God raised Jesus from the dead but did not allow him to be seen by the whole people but only by certain witnesses. Two of these witnesses come to the fore in this Easter story, Mary Magdalen and John 9the evangelist). Mary was the first to see the resurrected Jesus and, in a sense, the first Apostle; she was ‘sent’ to tell the Twelve that Jesus had risen. John, according to today’s Gospel, was the first to believe in the Resurrection. These are two of the people who remained at the foot of the cross until Jesus gave up his spirit. We might well ask if there is a link between ‘being at the foot of the cross’ and being able to understand or even recognise the Resurrection.
Perhaps, in a sense, John and Mary Magdalene had already begun to see things from a completely different perspective. They could see a different dimension to life which requires the eyes of faith and love. They could see, perhaps, their own failings being made whole by what they had witnessed at the foot of the cross. They became people of the Resurrection, the Easter People, because they could see with this perspective. And, to celebrate Easter, we are taken back immediately to the foot of the cross. For that’s where we go during every Eucharist.

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Each of the days of Easter week are considered as Feast Days; we celebrate Easter for the whole Octave.

Caritas Diocese of Salford Jobs
Project workers Appointment type: Full-time (37.5 hours per week) Location: Cornerstone Day Centre, Hulme, Manchester Closing date: Monday 18 April 2022, 5pm Salary: £25,763 - £27,886
Find out more and apply: www.caritassalford.org.uk

COUNCIL ELECTIONS IN MAY
If you haven’t already registered to vote, and you are eligible to do so, you can now register by phoning 0161 770 4718.

MESSAGE FROM POPE FRANCIS FOR EASTER
“May the light of the risen Jesus be a source of rebirth for migrants fleeing from war and extreme poverty. Let us recognize in their faces the marred and suffering face of the Lord as he walked the path to Calvary. May they never lack concrete signs of solidarity and human fraternity, a pledge of the victory of life over death that we celebrate on this day. I thank the nations that generously receive people who are suffering and seeking refuge….
There are still too many wars and too much violence in the world! May the Lord, who is our peace, help us to overcome the mindset of war. “
(This was part of his message for last Easter, but it still applies.)

May you know the new life of Easter amongst us
and truly become Easter people!
Happy Easter!

PALM SUNDAY (YEAR C)
WEEK: APRIL 10TH – 16TH 2022

Palm Sunday

“Blessings on the King who comes in the name of the Lord!”

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Breda Barret, Victoria Villaruz, Juanito Auxtero, Joan Killeen, Bronagh Smith, Sue Knott, Thomas McLean, Fred Kibblewhite
LATELY DEAD: Dennis Gardner, Krystyna Biatek, Michael Teefy
ANNIVERSARIES: Anna Richards, Keith and Derek Watkins, Raymond McFaul, William and Maureen Sumner, George Brierley, Robert and Mary McFall, Joaquinde Almeida, Maria Lourdes

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: £1,312.18
Standing Order: £689.00 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £10.00 (Ukrainian appeal +£100 ): Missio £11.00; Hall rental £20.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

LENTEN PODCASTS
Join with us as we follow Jesus on his journey through to His Passion and listen in to our weekly meditation podcasts lasting around 15 minutes each time.

Lent Podcast 6 2021

Face coverings in church are no longer required by law but we would still encourage you to wear them out of respect for people who might still feel worried.

MONDAY BREW
Those parishioners who stay behind after Mass on a Monday for a brew and a chat, need to know that there will be no brews on Easter Monday, 18th April, or on subsequent Bank Holidays.

TIMES OF SERVICES OVER HOLY WEEK
We will keep to the same times for services that we have for the last few years. Mass on Holy Thursday (14th April) will be at 8.00pm (no Mass earlier in the day!). The service of the Passion on Good Friday will be at 3.00pm and the Vigil service for Easter (first Mass of Easter) will be at 8.00pm on Saturday 16th April (there will be no Mass or confession earlier that day!). You need to be aware that this is a longer service, with the blessing of the fire, several extra readings, and the blessing of the Easter water. Easter Sunday Mass will be as usual at 10.00am.

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
We start with the chaotic and noisy entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. He’s proclaimed as the Messiah, and we sense the excitement of the crowd on his arrival. But quickly, we are reminded by the Prophet Isaiah what this role would require of him: “I offered my back to those who struck me…I did not cover my face against insult and spittle.” Then, St. Paul gives evidence of Jesus’ preparedness to accept Isaiah’s understanding of this role: “…Christ Jesus did not cling to his equality with God but emptied himself…and became as men are…he was humbler yet, even to accepting death on a cross.” Then, we hear more of the detail. We hear of the dreadful cruelty towards him and of the rejection by the very people who had acclaimed him only a few days before. We hear of Peter’s denial of Jesus shortly after he had declared that he would go to death for him. But we also see the obedience and trust of Jesus, who finally called out, “Father into your hands I commit my spirit”. Finally, we hear of one person, at least, who could see the power of that moment. The centurion who’d witnessed it all, at close quarters, says, “This was a great and good man.”

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Each of the days of Holy Week are so important. The readings from Isaiah at Mass will remind us that the Christ will be someone full of mercy, who will not break the crushed reed nor quench the wavering flame. He will, however, be someone who must accept suffering and will be treated most cruelly.
Thursday, 14th April, Maundy Thursday / Mass of the Lord’s Supper.
This marks the beginning of the Easter Triduum (Three days) and the most important part of the Church’s liturgical year, when we are invited to experience the climax of Jesus’ story together. We are called to place ourselves at table with him, or to walk that terrible journey of the cross, or to struggle with the apparent failure of his mission, while retaining, perhaps, a glimmer of hope even then.
Friday, 15th April, Good Friday. Why, on earth, do we call this day “Good” when the images associated with it are full of horror and apparent disaster? It is, of course, because, if we can see beyond the horror, we see an image of perfect humanity, someone who is able to trust when everything seems so bleak, someone who is able to love in the face of hate, someone who is able to forgive when he has been treated so cruelly.
Saturday, 16th April. Holy Saturday. This is a “dies non” (a Latin term meaning, basically, a day of emptiness when nothing happens). It’s only at 8pm that we gather for the great vigil. We will, once more, begin with the lighting of the Easter fire in the back garden of the Presbytery. From this we will light the Easter Candle and process into the church. After thanking God for the symbol of the Easter Candle, we’ll proceed into the usual readings which convey the story of the people of Israel and the story on which our faith is based. The vigil then leads into the singing of the Gloria and the proclamation of Easter

Have a prayerful and powerful Holy Week!

THE FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT (YEAR C)
WEEK: APRIL 3RD – 9TH 2022

The Fifth Sunday of Lent

“I am making a road in the wilderness, paths in the wilds.”

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Breda Barret, Victoria Villaruz, Juanito Auxtero, Joan Killeen, Bronagh Smith, Sue Knott, Thomas McLean, Fred Kibblewhite
LATELY DEAD: Brian Smith, Mary Wright, Terence Mundy,
ANNIVERSARIES: Elijah Joseph, George Brooks, Jack Hargreaves, Veronica Sobieralski, Anna Richards, Keith and Derek Watkins, Raymond McFaul, William and Maureen Sumner

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: £1,816.37
Standing Order: £689.00 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £30.00; CAFOD £80.00 (Ukrainian appeal +)
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

LENTEN PODCASTS
Join with us as we follow Jesus on his journey through to His Passion and listen in to our weekly meditation podcasts lasting around 15 minutes each time.

Lent Podcast 5 2021

Face coverings in church are no longer required by law but we would still encourage you to wear them out of respect for people who might still feel worried.

LENTEN STATION MASSES
Don’t forget that the next Lenten Station Mass is at St. Herbert’s Church on Broadway (OL9 0JY) on Tuesday evening this week (5th April) at 7.30pm

MASS OF CHRISM – WEDNESDAY 13TH APRIL AT 11AM
I now have several tickets for this Mass which will take place at Salford Cathedral. This is the Mass when the sacred oils that we use for several sacraments throughout the year will be blessed by the bishop and brought back to the parishes. If anyone would like to attend you can get a ticket from me (on a first come, first served basis).

TIMES OF SERVICES OVER HOLY WEEK
We will keep to the same times for services that we have for the last few years. Mass on Holy Thursday (14th April) will be at 8pm (no Mass earlier in the day!). The service of the Passion on Good Friday will be at 3pm and the Vigil service for Easter (first Mass of Easter) will be at 8pm on Saturday 16th April (there will be no Mass or confession earlier that day!). You need to be aware that this is a longer service, with the blessing of the fire, several extra readings, and the blessing of the Easter water. Easter Sunday Mass will be as usual at 10am.

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
There is a logical development in the readings this Sunday: in the Old Testament, God asks us to look forward to the "new deed he will do", when he will put "water in the wilderness"; we then see the new deed, which Paul talks about, to be the "supreme advantage of knowing Christ Jesus", and sharing the "power of his resurrection"; so who is this Jesus, and how is he "water in the wilderness”? It is because he brings hope for the future, and forgiveness of our sins, as the Gospel story relates. This Sunday's readings are there for our encouragement, to help us look forward to Easter, and the meaning of Jesus’ Passion, Death and Resurrection: that meaning is ‘Reconciliation through the Cross’ and a ‘new creation’. We are driven on through Lent by a vision of the marvels that God has worked, and that God will work for us.

ECO-GARDENING TRAINING AT LAUDATO SI' CENTRE
Various dates beginning April, Laudato Si' Centre at Wardley Hall,Worsley. The Eco-gardening Essential Training programme enables gardeners of any skill level to confidently adopt sustainable gardening methods. Participants have the opportunity to learn the theory and practice of gardening with ecological patterns. The programme has been designed to skill people up while supporting the development of an eco-garden setting.
Find out more and book at
https://northernschool.info/eco-gardening-course-laudato-si

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday, 4th April, St. Isidore – he was born in Seville in Spain around the year 560. He was brought up by his brother Leander. He eventually was appointed Bishop of Seville and was a prolific writer. He also called together several Councils in which wise regulations were made for the Church. He died in 636.
Tuesday,5th April, St Vincent Ferrer – He was born in Valencia in 1350 and joined the Dominicans. He taught theology, travelling as much as he preached. He died in Vannes in France in 1419.
Thursday, 7th April, St John Baptist de la Salle – He was born in Rheims in France in 1651. He devoted himself mainly to educating children and founding schools for the poor, founding a religious congregation for these works. He died in Rouen in 1719.

Caritas Diocese of Salford Jobs - Concierge at Morning Star Hostel
Appointment type: Full time and part-time roles available
Location: Morning Star Hostel, 104 Denmark Road, Manchester M15 6JS
Closing date: Monday 4 April 2022 Salary: £20,314 per annum
Find out more and apply: www.caritassalford.org.uk
Also - Project workers Appointment type: Full-time (37.5 hours per week) Location: Cornerstone Day Centre, Hulme, Manchester Closing date: Monday 18 April 2022, 5pm Salary: £25,763 - £27,886
Find out more and apply: www.caritassalford.org.uk

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

THE FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT (YEAR C)
WEEK: MARCH 27TH – APRIL 2ND 2022
Mothering Sunday

Mothering Sunday

The Prodigal Father!

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Breda Barret, Victoria Villaruz, Juanito Auxtero, Joan Killeen, Bronagh Smith, Sue Knott, Thomas McLean, Fred Kibblewhite
LATELY DEAD: Brian Smith, Mary Wright, Terence Mundy
ANNIVERSARIES: Maria Manuela, Michael Hywell, Elijah Joseph, George Brooks, Jack Hargreaves

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: £858.20
Standing Order: £689.00 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £65.00 (Ukrainian appeal +); NA rent of room £90.00; Donations £25.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

ENVELOPES FOR PLANNED-GIVING
Anyone can pick up a box of envelopes for planned giving today. If you want us to be able to claim back the ‘gift aid’ from the Government, you will have to write your name and address on the first envelope you put into the collection basket. You will also need to sign a ‘gift-aid’ form and hand it in to Debbie (at the 10am Mass) or to me. These forms are available at the back of the church.

LENTEN PODCASTS
Join with us as we follow Jesus on his journey through to His Passion and listen in to our weekly meditation podcasts lasting around 15 minutes each time.

Lent Podcast 4 2021

Face coverings in church are no longer required by law but we would still encourage you to wear them out of respect for people who might still feel worried.

UKRAINE CRISIS (DIOCESAN RESPONSE)
We are all shocked and appalled at the devastating scenes of the invasion of Regular updates are provided on the Caritas website of the Diocese to explain the different ways parishes and schools can support the aid effort. Please click the image below:

LENTEN STATION MASSES
The next Deanery Station Mass will be on 5th April at St. Herbert’s, Chadderton at 7.30pm. There will be tea and coffee served after the Mass, but we appreciate that some people might not feel comfortable to stay on for that.

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
Is it irony or just meanness on the part of a Church dominated by men that, on this mothering Sunday, the principal story of the Scriptures is about the Prodigal Father? You might be thinking, “Hang on a minute, isn’t the story of this week’s Gospel called, “the story of the Prodigal son?” Well, that is the name that has been given to it, but the real story, here, is about the prodigality of the Father. The younger son is certainly not the hero of this story. The principal actor and the only hero is the Father. Even when the younger son makes his mind to go back home after wasting his father’s money, it’s not for the purest of reasons; he is thinking of himself. It’s merely a matter of pragmatic self-interest. The Father, on the other hand, who hears of the impending arrival of his son, rushes out to meet him at the outskirts of the village, fully aware of what the reaction of the rest of the village towards his son might be. He wants to show them all that this is his son whom he loves. The son still carries out his prepared speech which seems to lack any real sign of repentance. But the Father jumps in to interrupt before there’s any mention of a preparedness to become a servant. The Father insists that they put a ring on his finger. The commentators suggest that this would have been the Father’s signet ring and a sign of authority in the household. Then he tells them to put sandals on his feet. This would have been a sign to the rest of the household again of his free status. Slaves, at that time, would not have worn any footwear. We see the prodigality of the Father’s love for his son, and, for the Jew of Jesus’ day, this would have been shocking and a bit too much.

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Saturday, 2nd April, St. Francis of Paola.
He was born in Calabria, Italy, in 1416 and was educated by the Franciscan Friars in Paola. After returning from a trip to Assisi, he found a secluded cave and began to live as a hermit. He later founded a congregation of hermits which became the Order of Minims. He died in France in 1507.

“ANY QUESTIONS ON FAITH”
This is the third of a series of ‘Interfaith’ events taking place, this one at Failsworth Town Hall on Tuesday 29nd March at 7pm. There will be a panel of faith leaders from the different faith communities. There’s the opportunity to learn about other faiths and to challenge myths. You can book your free place via Website: oldhaminterfaith.org.uk or Email: oif1events@gmail.com’

AFRICAN CHOIR
If you want to know more about joining the choir or in getting involved in other activities of that group, you can simply email
stpatricksafricancommunity@gmail.com for the attention of Victor, or approach Victor Okoye or Alexis Douniama at church.

DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO WALSINGHAM 2022
The date for the resumption of the Diocesan annual pilgrimage to Our Lady’s Shrine in England has now been confirmed. This will take place on Saturday 7th May 2022. If anyone wishes to go on the pilgrimage from Oldham, please contact Fr. Callum at St. Edward’s, Lees (Tel. 0161 624 3762).

2022 SALFORD LOURDES PILGRIMAGE IS ANNOUNCED
Friday 29th July – Thursday 4th August 2022
The 88th Salford Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes, will be led by the Rt Rev. John Arnold, Bishop of Salford.
If you are interested in joining the pilgrimage this Summer, please fill in an ‘expression of interest’ form by clicking the links below. The form does not commit you to travelling with the Diocese but it will enable us to make plans appropriately and will help us to keep you informed as details become available.

Click the images below to
Register as a pilgrim		Register as a volunteer

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

THE THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT (YEAR C)
WEEK: MARCH 20TH – 26TH 2022

The Third Sunday of Lent

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Breda Barret, Victoria Villaruz, Juanito Auxtero, Joan Killeen, Bronagh Smith
LATELY DEAD: Dominic Grudzien, Brian Smith, Mary Wright, Terence Mundy
ANNIVERSARIES: Regina Wisniewski, Dr. John Duddy, Maria Inacia Da Silva, Mary Fogg and Harry Doran, William Bainsford, Harry Lawless, Fernando Lopes, Maria Manuela, Michael Hywell

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: £873.95
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £150.56 (Ukrainian appeal +); Heating costs £7.16 ;
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

ENVELOPES FOR PLANNED-GIVING
For 10am Mass goers: Please come to the back of church after mass to see Debbie bringing with you a note of your current envelope number. If you Gift Aid donations by BACS or standing order there is no need to have envelopes but you may still have some if you wish, however we do need a note of the number to reclaim the tax. All other envelopes will be available next week.

LENTEN PODCASTS
Join with us as we follow Jesus on his journey through to His Passion and listen in to our weekly meditation podcasts lasting around 15 minutes each time.

Lent Podcast 3 2021

Face coverings in church are no longer required by law but we would still encourage you to wear them out of respect for people who might still feel worried.

HOLY HOUR FOR UKRAINE
There will be a Holy Hour at the Cathedral today (Sunday) at 2:30pm led by Bishop John and it is hoped tht people will join in, either in person or via the livestream (click the image below for the link)

THE CURRENT SACRAMENTAL PROGRAMME FOR FIRST COMMUNION
The next meeting for the sacramental programme will be on Saturday 19th March for St. Patrick’s group.

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
People can all too quickly think of a serious illness being a punishment from God. A diagnosis of cancer can often be followed with the perhaps unspoken question, “Why me?” When we believe in a God who intervenes in life in response to prayer, we have difficulty in dealing with the continuation of suffering in people’s lives. Apparently, many people in Ukraine have adopted psalm 31 as their prayer of choice at this time: “In you O Lord, I take refuge…hear me and speedily rescue me. Be…a mighty stronghold to save me…Into your hands O Lord I commend my spirit…For my life is spent with sorrow…affliction has broken down my strength…” The first reading, today, even speaks of God who has seen the miserable state of his people and has heard their prayers. And yet, suffering continues to be present in our world leaving many asking “Why?” In the Gospel, we hear of a people who were crushed by a tower falling on them when Jesus says they were no more at fault than anyone else. Why would a merciful God allow that sort of thing to happen? Of course, accidents happen because of the limitations of creation, and once we have free will, then we can all choose to do wrong, and those choices can cause others to suffer. But suffering also has a tremendous capacity to break through the walls of our selfishness and bring out the best in us. We can see how so many people across Europe have mobilised in response to the refugee crisis. We can see how so many countries of the world have been inspired by the sacrifices made by so many Ukrainian people for the sake of freedom. And the sacrifice of the cross is, of course, the principal dynamic of our healing.

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Wednesday, 23rd March, St. Turibius of Mogrovejo.
He was born in 1538, trained as a lawyer became a professor at the University of Salamanca. In 1580 he was chosen as Archbishop of Lima in Peru. There he is said to have controlled the abuses of the clergy and used his authority to protect the poor. He made special efforts to learn the native Indian dialects, so that, as he visited his Diocese, he could talk directly with his people.
Friday, 25th March. The Annunciation of the Lord.

“ANY QUESTIONS ON FAITH”
This is the second of a series of ‘Interfaith’ events taking place, this one at Hodge Clough Primary School, Conduit St, Moorside, Oldham OL1 4JX on Tuesday 22nd March at 7pm. There will be a panel of faith leaders from the different faith communities. There’s the opportunity to learn about other faiths and to challenge myths. You can book your free place via Website: oldhaminterfaith.org.uk or Email: oif1events@gmail.com’

Click the images below to
Register as a pilgrim		Register as a volunteer

DON’T FORGET THAT THE CLOCKS GO FORWARD
NEXT SUNDAY MORNING.
THAT MEANS THAT WE LOSE AN HOUR IN BED!!

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

THE SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT (YEAR C)
WEEK: MARCH 13TH – 19TH 2022

Second Sunday of Lent

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Breda Barret, Victoria Villaruz, Juanito Auxtero, Joan Killeen, Bronagh Smith
LATELY DEAD: Mollie Hamilton, Sr. Catherine, Steven Jones, Margarita G. Duma, Joan Turner, Dominic Grudzien
ANNIVERSARIES: Norman and Austin Hussey, Bernard Doran, Judith Warburton, Patricia and John Jocelyn, Patricia Locke, Regina Wisniewski, Dr. John Duddy, Maria Inacia Da Silva

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: £934.70
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £30.00; CAFOD £120.00 (Ukrainian appeal +); Missio £10.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

ENVELOPES FOR PLANNED-GIVING
I am aware that you will have used up the current year’s envelopes for planned-giving at the beginning of April. The next year’s envelopes are ready for distribution. They will be available from net week onwards. Instructions on how we are going to distribute the envelopes will also be available next week.

LENTEN PODCASTS
As we continue our Lenten journey this week, join with us as we follow Jesus on his journey through to His Passion and listen in to our weekly meditation podcast, lasting around 15 minutes.
We ask you to help us and stay with us Lord on our journey and pray especially for those suffering from anguish, uncertainty and long term persecution. Just click on the link below

Lent Podcast 2 2021

Face coverings in church are now required by law unless people are exempt for medical or other reasons.

Social distancing is also still requested (1 metre apart from others not in your family).

UKRAINE CRISIS
We are all shocked and appalled at the devastating scenes of the invasion of the Ukraine. Catholic agencies are at the centre of the response to the unfolding humanitarian crisis and supporting those who have been displaced. We stand in solidarity with the Ukrainian people and all those against war.
Regular updates are provided on the Caritas website of the Diocese to explain the different ways parishes and schools can support the aid effort. Please click the image below:

THE CURRENT SACRAMENTAL PROGRAMME FOR FIRST COMMUNION
The next meeting for the sacramental programme will be on Saturday 19th March for St. Patrick’s group.

CONFIRMATION PROGRAMME
The next programme is beginning and will culminate in a Deanery celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation at 3pm, Saturday 4rd June 2022, the vigil of Pentecost, at St Patrick’s church, Oldham. For those who wish to enrol, there will be one (very important) introductory meeting for parents, followed by six two-hour sessions for the Year 8 candidates. The sessions are also open to those didn’t get the opportunity last year for whatever reason. Please give candidates name and parent/Carer’s details to your Parish Priest before Monday, 4th April

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
Every year, on the Second Sunday of Lent, we hear about the Transfiguration of Jesus on the mountain. Why? Jesus revealed his glory to the three apostles to strengthen them for the journey ahead - the journey to Jerusalem, Gethsemane and Golgotha. The same vision is offered to us today, to strengthen us on our Lenten Journey of Faith and on our journey of life in general. When we are in the middle of situations like the pandemic, or of seeing the images of war emerging from places like Ukraine, it can all seem so oppressive. But Jesus took Peter, James and John, up the mountain to help them to see from a different perspective, to be able to see the wider picture and the way that lies far ahead after the hardships of the journey. He gives them and us a reminder of God’s presence through history, with the Law and the Prophets guiding the way, leading humanity to that glory that will be ours. Martin Luther King Jr saw the power of that image and used it in his final message to people in 1968, just before he was killed. It certainly applies to us today. “I don't know what will happen now. We've got some difficult days ahead. But it really doesn't matter with me now…I just want to do God's will. And He's allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I've looked over. And I've seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the Promised Land. So, I'm happy, tonight. I'm not worried about anything. I'm not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord.”

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Thursday, 17th March. St. Patrick (Patron of Ireland). He was born around 385 and, in his youth, was taken as a captive to Ireland where he worked as a herdsman. Having escaped, he became a priest and, later, a Bishop. He then returned to Ireland where he preached the Gospel and influenced many to convert to the Faith. He died in 461 and was buried in Downpatrick.
Friday, 18th March. St. Cyril of Jerusalem. He became Bishop of Jerusalem in 348. He is famed for the catechetical instructions he gave to candidates for baptism and for his defence of the faith. He was exiled three times.
Saturday, 19th March. St. Joseph (Husband of Mary, the mother of Jesus)

“ANY QUESTIONS ON FAITH”
This is an ‘Interfaith’ event taking place at Holy Family Parish Hall (next to the church), Limeside. on Tuesday 15th March at 7pm. There will be a panel of faith leaders from the different faith communities. There’s the opportunity to learn about other faiths and to challenge myths. There’s also the opportunity to mix with people of other faiths. There will also be two more of these events in different parts of Oldham on the two Tuesdays following.

Click the images below to
Register as a pilgrim		Register as a volunteer

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”

THE FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT (YEAR C)
WEEK: MARCH 6TH – 12TH 2022

Jesus is tempted in the desert

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Breda Barret, Victoria Villaruz, Juanito Auxtero, Joan Killeen
LATELY DEAD: Mollie Hamilton, Sr. Catherine, Steven Jones, Margarita G. Duma, Joan Turnet
ANNIVERSARIES: Gertrude Ndagijimana, Henriett Ramos Monteiro, Ronnie Melia, Norman and Austin Hussey, Bernard Doran, Judith Warburton, Patricia and John Jocelyn

COLLECTION: £602.96
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £10.00; Flowers £20.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

ENVELOPES FOR PLANNED-GIVING
I am aware that you will have used up the current year’s envelopes for planned-giving at the beginning of April. The next year’s envelopes are ready for distribution. However, like last year, we are not going to allocate you a box. All you have to do, in two weeks’ time, is take any box of envelopes from the larger boxes at the back of church. Then, if you are a taxpayer, and wish the Parish to claim back the tax on the money you will pay during the year, the first time you put money in an envelope and hand it in at church, write your name and address on that envelope. This is important; the money we claim back in this way brings several thousand pounds a year into the Parish.

LENTEN PODCASTS
Starting our Lenten journey, this week we ask you to join with us as we follow Jesus on his journey through to His Passion and listen in to our weekly meditation podcasts lasting around 15 minutes each time. Just click the link below.

LENT podcast 1 2021

Face coverings in church are now required by law unless people are exempt for medical or other reasons.

Social distancing is also still requested (1 metre apart from others not in your family).

THE CURRENT SACRAMENTAL PROGRAMME FOR FIRST COMMUNION
The next meeting for the sacramental programme will be on Saturday 12th March (Holy Rosary Group). And Saturday 19th March for St. Patrick’s group.

LENTEN STATION MASSES
At the last Deanery Conference, we decided only to have two Deanery Station Masses this year, one on 8th March at St. Mary’s, Failsworth, and the other on 5th April at St. Herbert’s, Chadderton. Both these Masses will be at 7.30pm. There will be tea and coffee served after these Masses, but we appreciate that some people might not feel comfortable to stay on for that.

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
As with each First Sunday of Lent the Gospel tells of Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness. As we begin the journey of Lent, a time of spiritual renewal, we are asked, through the first reading, to go back to where our journey, as a people of faith, began. The priest was asked to repeat the story of Exodus to remind people of how God can and does intervene for our benefit. This is a reminder that a major element of our Lenten journey must be about remembering and thanking. The temptations faced by Jesus are also temptations that we face. Our renewal will necessarily involve acknowledging that there’s more to life than material things, that the rest of the world cannot be expected to revolve around us, and that we must allow the freedom of others. The Lenten journey requires us to focus more on God and on others.

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday, 7th March. Ss. Perpetua and Felicity – These two martyrs died in Carthage in 203 in the persecution under Septimus Severus. The account of their lives and their martyrdom was partly written by themselves and still survives.
Tuesday, 8th March. St. John of God. He was born at the end of the 15th century and became a soldier. However, after a religious experience he gave up soldiering and founded a hospital in Seville where he was outstanding in caring for the sick.in spite of suffering himself from a debilitating heart condition. He died in 1550.
Wednesday, 9th March. St. Frances of Rome. She was born in 1384, married and had three children. She was exemplary in her care of victims of the frequent epidemics of that time, founding a congregation to continue her work.

Click the images below to
Register as a pilgrim		Register as a volunteer

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

THE EIGHTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME (YEAR C)
WEEK: FEBRUARY 27TH – MARCH 5TH 2022

The 8th week of ordinary time

COLLECTION: £451.98
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £20.00; Donation £35.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

Face coverings in church are now required by law unless people are exempt for medical or other reasons.

Social distancing is also still requested (1 metre apart from others not in your family).

‘AT YOUR SIDE' – THE ART OF ACCOMPANIMENT
Saturday 5th March 2022, 10:00am – 3:00pm, Thornleigh Salesian College, Bolton, BL1 6PQ.As restrictions in the UK are lifting, we wanted to provide a day where we could gather together again to look forward in hope. If the pandemic has taught us anything it is that we are all connected, and we need each other. Pope Francis tells us of the need to accompany others in life and to be accompanied ourselves.
Danny Curtin, Amy Cameron, and David Wells will share their research on accompaniment and take us through the various principles and stages which we can apply to our ministries and to life.
After the main talk, there will be an opportunity to break into small, practical group sessions exploring the skills of Listening, Encounter and Presence.
You can find out more and register for the event by clicking on the image below

LENTEN STATION MASSES
At the Deanery Conference last Tuesday, we decided only to have two Deanery Station Masses this year, one on 8th March and the other on 5th April. Both these Masses will be at 7.30pm. There will be tea and coffee served after these Masses, but we appreciate that some people might not feel comfortable to stay on for that. The Masses will be at St. Mary’s, Failsworth and at St. Herbert’s Chadderton.

POPE ANNOUNCES 2 MARCH AS DAY OF PRAYER AND FASTING FOR UKRAINE
During the General Audience on Wednesday, Pope Francis made a heartfelt appeal for peace in Ukraine, saying that the threat of war had caused “great pain in my heart.”
“Despite the diplomatic efforts of the last few weeks,” the Pope said, “increasingly alarming scenarios are opening up,” with many people all over the world feeling anguish and pain.

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
We have many sayings about results being more important than promises, such as “the proof of the pudding is in the eating”. Today’s scripture readings are all about this – the ways in which our words and actions will reveal who we truly are. There is a wonderful mosaic of poetic wisdom in the readings this Sunday – images and parables and similes that can sit in our heads and hearts, and make us think about the sort of people we are, and the words we use and the fruits we produce by them. And we should pray that we will always produce good, sound fruit, so that we may keep on working at the Lord’s work always, and so share in Christ’s victory over death itself.

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Tuesday, 1st March. St. David, the Patron of Wales. He was born in Cardigan, Wales around the year 520. He travelled to the Isle of Wight to study under a Welsh ascetic, Paulinurus, but then returned to Wales and established many monasteries. It is claimed that he and his monks had a very severe diet, basically, bread, salt, water and leeks, hence the now national symbol of Wales – the leek. He died in about 588.

WEDNESDAY, 2ND MARCH, ASH WEDNESDAY
Friday, 4th March. St. Casimir. He was the son of the King of Poland and was born in 1458. He was known for his love of the poor and for his devotion to the Eucharist and Our Lady. He died when he was just 26 years old of a lung disease.

DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO WALSINGHAM 2022
The date for the resumption of the Diocesan annual pilgrimage to Our Lady’s Shrine in England has now been confirmed. This will take place on Saturday 7th May 2022. Fr. Callum, from St. Edward’s, Lees, is currently contacting David Booth (the Oldham Secretary of the Oldham/ Walsingham group, to organise coaches for the occasion. More information will be coming out about it soon.

2022 SALFORD LOURDES PILGRIMAGE IS ANNOUNCED
Friday 29th July – Thursday 4th August 2022
The Diocese is delighted to announce that we will return to Lourdes this Summer for the 88th Salford Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes, led by the Rt Rev. John Arnold, Bishop of Salford.
Full details, including travel and accommodation pricing, insurance details and volunteer application forms will be available in the coming weeks, but, in the meantime, the Diocese asks that if you may be interested in joining the pilgrimage this Summer that you please fill in an ‘expression of interest’ form by clicking the links below. The form does not commit you to travelling with us but will enable us to make plans appropriately and will help us to keep you informed as details become available

Click the images below to
Register as a pilgrim		Register as a volunteer

LENT 2022
Working with the Muslim communities of Oldham during their Ramadan, I become acutely aware of our need, as Christians, to rediscover and put into practice the more penitential elements of Lent. Giving up cakes or biscuits for forty days just seems to pale into insignificance in the face of the Muslim practice of fasting. I’m not suggesting that we should try to outdo our Muslim neighbours, but rather that we give more thought to the renewal of our spirituality, and how this can be achieved, between now and Easter.

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”

THE SEVENTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME (YEAR C)
WEEK: FEBRUARY 20TH – 26TH 2022

The Seventh week of Ordinary Time (Year C)

“Love your enemies…”

COLLECTION: £534.37
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £20.00; CAFOD £80.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

Face coverings in church are now required by law unless people are exempt for medical or other reasons.

Social distancing is also still requested (1 metre apart from others not in your family).

THE READINGS THIS SUNDAY
What is compassion? What is love? And how do we live them out in our own age? These are the questions that spring from the Gospel today. In many ways this is the hardest teaching Jesus offers us, because it goes against so much of what the "modern world" would have us believe. Look at the first reading: David and Saul are enemies, and Saul is suddenly in David's power. The logic of the modern world would say "Strike while you can." But David chooses another path. He is compassionate. We can all think of times when we were in a position to take revenge, score a victory over someone, take it out on them. The measure of our faith is whether or not we were compassionate - especially with our enemies - as Jesus taught us.

MARTIN LUTHER KING ON TODAY’S GOSPEL
“Far from being the pious injunction of a utopian dreamer, the command to love one’s enemy is an absolute necessity for our survival. Love, even for enemies, is the key to the solution of the problems of our world. Jesus is not an impractical idealist: he is the practical realist.”
“In order to love the enemy neighbour, we must recognize that the negative deed of the enemy does not represent all that the individual is.”
“And finally, we come to see that there is within every man the image of God, and no matter how much it is scarred, it is still there.”
“Hate begets hate. Force begets force. Violence begets violence. Toughness begets toughness. And it is all a descending spiral ending in destruction for everybody.”

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday, 21st February. St. Peter Damian – Born in 10007, he became a hermit before taking part in a great reform of the Church. In 1057, he was made Bishop of Ostia, and, on his death in 1072, was immediately venerated as a saint.
Tuesday, 22nd February. The Chair of St. Peter the Apostle. This feast for the See of Rome, kept since the fourth century, celebrates the unity of the Church around the pope, the Bishop of Rome.
Wednesday, 23rd February. St. Polycarp (AD. 69-155). It is suggested by Tertullian, Irenaeus and Jerome that Polycarp was a disciple of the Apostle, and Evangelist, John, and that John had ordained him as Bishop of Smyrna. His name means “much fruit”. He is regarded as one of the three chief Apostolic Fathers of the Church, along with Clement of Rome and Ignatius of Antioch. His sole surviving work is the Epistle of Polycarp to the Philippians. He was eventually burned at the stake and pierced with a spear for refusing to burn incense to the Roman Emperor.

JOB VACANCIES:
Health and Safety Business Partner - Diocese of Salford (Replacement Role)
Appointment type: Full-time, permanent (35 hours per week. Some evening and weekend work will be required).
Location: Cathedral Centre, 3 Ford Street, Salford, M3 6DP
Salary: £41,200 - £50,645 per annum
Closing Date: 12 noon on Friday 25th February 2022
To find out more and apply, please click the image below

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

THE SIXTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME (YEAR C)
WEEK: FEBRUARY 13TH – 19TH 2022

RACIAL JUSTICE SUNDAY

RACIAL JUSTICE SUNDAY

“The one who puts his trust in the Lord is like a tree by the waterside…”

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Sr. Catherine; Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Breda Barret, Victoria Villaruz, Juanito Auxtero
LATELY DEAD: Expedito Doysabas, Josephine McChrystal, Charlie Ware, Antonio DiMario, Kevin Knott, Andrew Powell, Jose Thomas
ANNIVERSARIES: Marie Jubb, Joaquim De Almeida, Henryk Sobieralski, Maureen Ross, Romeo Tee, Joe Rimmer, Victor Febrero

COLLECTION: £876.00
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £128.00; Caritas £1009.00; Flowers £10.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

Face coverings in church are now required by law unless people are exempt for medical or other reasons.

Social distancing is also still requested (1 metre apart from others not in your family).

DIOCESE RELEASES STATEMENT ON MODERN SLAVERY
The Diocese of Salford is taking steps to combat modern slavery in our communities with the launch of its first Statement on Modern Slavery. Released on the Feast of St Bakhita – the patron saint of human trafficking survivors – the statement outlines key actions to raise awareness of modern slavery in our communities, and offers training and support to help parishes and individuals aid victims of slavery.
The full statement can be read here: https://www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/modern-slavery-statement/

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday, 14th February – Ss Cyril and Methodius, Bishops and Patrons of Europe. They were brothers and missionaries, who carried the Gospel into the Slavonic countries: they translated the liturgical books into the Slavonic language (inventing a new script – Cyrillic – to do so. Cyril died in 869, Methodius in 885.
Thursday, 17th February – The Seven Holy Founders of the Servite Order – They were Bonfilius, Alexis, Manettus, Amideus, Hugh, Sostene and Buonagiunta, seven holy men of the town of Florence whom became bound to each other in a spiritual friendship that were eventually called by the Virgin Mother of God in a vision that they reportedly all shared in one and the same moment (though at first each was unaware that the other saw what he saw). They were called to 'Leave the World, the Better to Serve Almighty God'. They founded the Servite Order in 1304

ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2021
Balance on Current account on 1st Jan. 2021 -- £28,824.65
Balance on No. 2 account on 1st Jan. 2021 --     £10,287.72
Total on 1st Jan. 2020                                         £39,323.22
Balance on Current account on 31st Dec.           £52,759.34
Balance on No. 2 account on 31st Dec.               £7,768.42
Total on 31st December 2020                            £60,791.79
End of year Balance                                          PLUS £21,468.57
We had an Income, over the year, of £84,954.17, and an expenditure of £63,485.60. £13,166.23 of the income came from Funerals, baptisms, weddings and lectures (Ministry Income). The largest expenditure items were for Gas and electric (£14,567.78) and for the Diocesan Levy (£11,166.23). Thank you so much for all your generosity throughout the year!!

PARISH MEETING RE SYNOD
I will have a parish meeting re the Synod next Saturday 19th February at 3pm in the Church. Anyone will be welcome. It’s your opportunity to express what you think are the important signs of the times, and what you think that God is requiring of the Church today.

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

THE FIFTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME (YEAR C)
WEEK: FEBRUARY 6TH – 12TH 2022

The Fifth week of ordinary time

“What a wretched state I am in” (Isaiah)
“I am the least of the Apostles” (Paul)
“Leave me Lord; I am a sinful man” (Peter)

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Sr. Catherine; Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Breda Barret, Victoria Villaruz, Juanito Auxtero
LATELY DEAD: Expedito Doysabas, Josephine McChrystal, Charlie Ware, Mr DiMario, Kevin Knott
ANNIVERSARIES: Emerenciana Dumalaog, Marie Jubbs , Joaquim De Almeida, Henryk Sobieralski, Maureen Ross, Romeo Tee

COLLECTION: £646.30
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £230.00; Caritas £50.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

Face coverings in church are now required by law unless people are exempt for medical or other reasons.

Social distancing is also still requested (1 metre apart from others not in your family).

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE QUEEN
who acceded to the Throne on February 6, 1952
on the death of her father, King George VI,
70 years ago today!

THIS WEEK’S READINGS
We hear the call of another prophet this week - Isaiah. This introduces the Gospel, where we see Jesus calling his first disciples to follow him. Notice that the initiative is Jesus' there is no application process or interview procedure! Notice also the way that Jesus calls his disciples in this account - not with words, but with a miracle that is also a parable. It is, in a way, a miraculous "job description": if the disciple trusts completely in the one who calls, then the result will be truly amazing - a huge catch of men and women hungry for God. Simon's simple words "if you say so" give us an example of Christian discipleship: we should leave our own concerns behind, and simply follow the Lord with great trust.

FORMATION SERIES
Local reality of the Church in Salford with Bishop John Arnold: Wednesday 9th February 2022, 7:30pm – 9pm
Cathedral Centre and Via Zoom: Register here - www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/the-local-reality-of-the-church-in-the-diocese-of-salford/

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Tuesday, 8th February. St. Josephine Bakhita. She was born in Sudan in 1869. Her respected and reasonably prosperous father was brother of the village chief. She was surrounded by a loving family of three brothers and three sisters. She was later to write about herself: "I lived a very happy and carefree life, without knowing what suffering was." Then, in 1877, when she was 7–8 years old, she was seized by Arab slave traders, who had abducted her elder sister two years earlier. She was forced to walk barefoot about 600 miles to El-Obeid. She was sold and bought twice before she even arrived there. Over the course of twelve years (1877–1889) she was sold three more times and then given away. Bakhita was not the name she received from her parents at birth. It is said that the trauma of her abduction caused her to forget her own name; she took one given to her by the slavers, bakhita, which in Arabic means 'lucky' or 'fortunate.' She was treated appallingly by her different owners, frequently whipped, beaten and scarred. Bakhita was then bought, in Khartoum, by the Italian Vice Consul, Callisto Legnani, who treated her kindly and did not beat or punish her. Two years later, when Legnani himself had to return to Italy, Bakhita begged to go with him. Eventually she was to be given her freedom and she asked to be baptised. Then, she entered the Sisters of Mary Magdalene. She died on 8th February 1947.
The current high incidence of trafficking and modern slavery has meant that Bakhita has become the ‘go to’ saint in prayers for assistance in combatting this evil.
Thursday,10th February – St. Scholastica. She was the twin sister of St. Benedict. With his help, she founded a convent of what would be called, ‘Benedictine Sisters’ about five miles away from Monte Casino, where Benedict had his own monastery.
Friday, 11th February – Our Lady of Lourdes

NEXT SUNDAY IS RACIAL JUSTICE SUNDAY
There will be an opportunity for you to donate something to the work of the Catholic Association for Racial Justice.

PARISH MEETING RE SYNOD
I hope to have a parish meeting re the Synod on Saturday 19th February at 3pm. We could do this both ‘in person’ and via ‘zoom’. More details later!

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

THE FOURTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME (YEAR C)
WEEK: JANUARY 30TH – FEBRUARY 5TH 2022

The Fourth week of Ordinary Time

“I have appointed you as prophet to the nations…they will fight against you but shall not overcome you.”

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Sr. Catherine; Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Frederick Kibblewhite, Stella Barnes, Victoria Villaruz
LATELY DEAD: Esterina Jantas, Felilia Manuel, Lidia Rak
ANNIVERSARIES: Joe Rimmer, Margaret Rainsford, Michael McGladdery, Terry Mills, Catherine and Lewis Laverty, Phil and Ellie McDermott, Emerenciana Dumalaog, Muriel Owen

COLLECTION: £646.30
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £230.00; Caritas £50.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

Face coverings in church are now required by law unless people are exempt for medical or other reasons.

Social distancing is also still requested (1 metre apart from others not in your family).

PARISH MEETING RE SYNOD
I hope to have a parish meeting re the Synod on Saturday 19th February at 3pm. We could do this both ‘in person’ and via ‘zoom’. More details later!

THIS WEEK’S READINGS
Last week, when Jesus spoke in the synagogue, his words pleased the crowd - as we hear at the beginning of today's Gospel. How quickly the mood changes! This story shows very clearly that Jesus was not a "crowd-pleaser" - he wasn't interested in saying the right things to be popular or accepted. He was interested in the truth - which is the basic definition of a prophet - whatever the personal cost. So today, when Jesus points out that salvation is not just for the Jews, or even just the people of Nazareth, they reject the message and the messenger. Just like Jeremiah, when he was called to be a prophet (first reading), Jesus has to confront the land: they will fight with him, but not overcome him

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday 31st January – St. John Bosco – John Bosco’s mission was to the urban poor of his native city of Turin, especially to the youth. He provided them with food and shelter, education, and recreation. He used to perform magic tricks to keep them engaged. He also founded the Salesian Order to work with young people. Although Don Bosco never left his native Italy, his order became renowned worldwide.
Wednesday, 2nd February. The Presentation of the Lord
Thursday 3rd February – St. Blaise – Bishop in Armenia in the 4th century. He was both a physician and a Bishop. Fleeing persecution, he lived in a cave in the woods. He upset the local hunters by his care for the animals and the hunters got him imprisoned. He was, finally, executed. One of his miracles was reported to be the removal of a fishbone from a choking child’s throat.
Saturday 5th February – St Agatha– was martyred in Sicily in the persecution under the Emperor Decius. Her name is included in the Roman Canon (Eucharistic Prayer I).

CARITAS SUNDAY IS TODAY
“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me.” Matthew 25:40

Each year in our diocese, the final weekend of January is usually designated Caritas Sunday, an opportunity to highlight the work of Caritas Diocese of Salford, as our diocesan social action agency.

Some headlines from the Caritas annual report for last year:

Over 3,000 one-to-one support sessions for people without a permanent home
Long-stay housing to 38 young parents in supported accommodation, with 9 young mothers helped into independent tenancy
Help into higher education, employment or training for 72 refugees
Support to over 200 older people to prevent isolation and ill health
And thousands of food parcels for families affected by poverty and hundreds of showers, meals, clothing and footwear provided for street sleepers.

Any donations for Caritas should be put in an envelope marked ‘CARITAS’ and left in the collection plate over the next couple of weeks.

JOB VACANCIES:
Volunteer Coordinator for Caritas Diocese of Salford
Thanks to the receipt of funding specifically intended for capacity building, Caritas Salford is recruiting for a Volunteer Coordinator. This newly created post will improve the promotion, recruitment, selection, induction and ongoing support for volunteers across our organisation.
Appointment type: 37 hours per week, permanent
Location: Manchester with travel/homeworking
Closing date: Wednesday 2 February 2022, 10.00am
Interviews: Friday 11 February 2022
Salary: SCP16-19 £24,012 – £25,481 per annum.
For more details of this opportunity and other vacancies, please visit https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/careers/

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

THE THIRD WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME (YEAR C)
WEEK: JANUARY 23RD – 29TH 2022

Third Sunday of Ordinary Time

“Unrolling the scroll, He found the place where it is written: The Spirit of the Lord has … anointed me.”

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Sr. Catherine; Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Rev. Derek Palmer, Frederick Kibblewhite, Stella Barnes
LATELY DEAD: Mrs. Foley, Martin Haigh, Esterina Jantas, Felilia Manuel
ANNIVERSARIES: Alan Henthorn, Myron Patra, Michael Grimes, Jim Buttimer, John Donnelly, Joe Rimmer, Margaret Rainsford, Michael McGladdery, Terry Mills, Catherine and Lewis Laverty, Enid Kirane, Margaret Woodcock

COLLECTION: £733.65
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £30.00; CAFOD £30.00; Heating £12.10; Donation £20.00; Polish Community’s Christmas donation to the Parish £616.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

Face coverings in church are now required by law unless people are exempt for medical or other reasons.

Social distancing is also still requested (1 metre apart from others not in your family).

OCTAVE OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY: 18TH -25TH JANUARY
Theme: We saw the star in the East, and we came to worship him (Mt2:2). Materials for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2022 have been prepared by the Middle East Council of Churches. More than ever, in these difficult times, we need a light that shines in the darkness. The Middle East has witnessed many difficulties, yet we proclaim Jerusalem as “The City of Peace”. Today, peace is missing from that city, yet we maintain the belief of a New Jerusalem where all people will come together.

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday, 24th January – St. Francis de Sales – He was born into a noble family in Annecy in 1597. He was ordained a priest and worked strenuously for the Church by distributing printed essays on the Faith. He became Bishop of Geneva and is the patron saint of journalists and writers,
Tuesday, 25th January. The Conversion of St. Paul.
Wednesday 26th January – St Timothy and Titus: These were both companions of St. Paul, entrusted with the care of Christian communities in Ephesus and Crete, respectively.
Thursday 27th January – St. Angela of Merici – born in Brescia in the north of Italy c1470, she entered the third Order of St. Francis and founded the Ursulines, devoted to the education of girls from families in poverty. She died in 1540.
Friday 28th January – St Thomas Aquinas – He became a Dominican and studied in Cologne under St. Albert the Great. He remains the most influential theologian / philosopher in the Catholic Church and, perhaps beyond. In his two great books, Summa contra gentiles and Summa theologica, according to Pope John XXII, who canonised him, he cast greater light within the Church than all the other doctors taken together.

OCTAVE OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY: 18TH -25TH JANUARY
Archbishop Bernard Longley reflected this week on the immense work done and the road still to travel towards the goal of full visible unity. He spoke of the immense value of the “friendships, reflecting, praying, and witnessing together,” which enables deeper bonds and understanding.

SUNDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD
This Sunday, 23 January, is the 'Sunday of the Word of God' - a day, instituted by Pope Francis in 2019, devoted to the celebration and study of Sacred Scripture.
"Devoting a specific Sunday of the liturgical year to the word of God can enable the Church to experience anew how the risen Lord opens up for us the treasury of his word and enables us to proclaim its unfathomable riches before the world." Pope Francis.

CARITAS SUNDAY 29TH - 30TH JANUARY
“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me.” Matthew 25:40

Each year in our diocese, the final weekend of January is usually designated Caritas Sunday, an opportunity to highlight the work of Caritas Diocese of Salford, as our diocesan social action agency.

Some headlines from the Caritas annual report for last year:

Over 3,000 one-to-one support sessions for people without a permanent home
Long-stay housing to 38 young parents in supported accommodation, with 9 young mothers helped into independent tenancy
Help into higher education, employment or training for 72 refugees
Support to over 200 older people to prevent isolation and ill health
And thousands of food parcels for families affected by poverty and hundreds of showers, meals, clothing and footwear provided for street sleepers

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

THE SECOND WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME (YEAR C)
WEEK: JANUARY 16TH – 22ND 2022

The SECOND WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME

“He let his glory be seen and his disciples
believed in him.”

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Sr. Catherine; Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Stefan Togyer, Phoebe Jane Campbell, Andrew Giblie, Rev. Derek Palmer, Ewa Kubot
LATELY DEAD: Maureen McGuin, Trefor Cole, Lidia Rak. Sister Aloysius (McConville), Olga Saj, Peter Guilfoyle, Marjorie Waters, Jean Green
ANNIVERSARIES: Margaret Woodcock, Enid Kirane, Alan Henthorn, Myron Patra, Margaret Grudzien, Judith Dwyer, David Monaghan, Fr. Joseph Beswick, Paddy Jo Canny, Teresa, Edmund and Bridgett Donovan, Margaret Hywell, Sheila Bradbury

COLLECTION: £733.65
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £30.00; CAFOD £30.00;
Heating £12.10; Donation £20
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

Face coverings in church are now required by law unless people are exempt for medical or other reasons.

Social distancing is also still requested (1 metre apart from others not in your family).

THE CURRENT SACRAMENTAL PROGRAMME FOR FIRST COMMUNION
The next occasions for the current sacramental programme will be for the St. Patrick’s Group on Saturday 22nd January in St. Patrick’s Church at 10.00am.

CARITAS SUNDAY 29TH - 30TH JANUARY
“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me.” Matthew 25:40
Each year in our diocese, the final weekend of January is usually designated Caritas Sunday, an opportunity to highlight the work of Caritas Diocese of Salford, as our diocesan social action agency.

PEACE SUNDAY
Peace Sunday is TODAY 16 January, 2022. The theme chosen for 2022 by Pope Francis is:"Education, work and dialogue between generations: tools for building lasting peace"
Archbishop Malcolm McMahon says: This year has been one of unprecedented and continuing challenges. We are all conscious of the need to restore and rebuild our communities here and around the world, accepting that we need new ways of working and relating to each other. The Christian message of peace, through reconciliation, justice and nonviolence, can offer hope and direction in these times.
Pope Francis writes: “Let us walk together with courage and creativity on the path of intergenerational dialogue, education and work. May more and more men and women strive daily, with quiet humility and courage to be artisans of peace. And may they be ever inspired and accompanied by the blessings of the God of peace!”

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday 17th – St Antony (Abbot) – Inspired by the words from the Gospels, Antony withdrew to the Egyptian desert at the age of 20. There he attracted many to the monastic life. He died in 356.
Wednesday, 19th January. St. Wulstan. Born in Warwickshire around 1008. He became a Benedictine monk at the priory of Worcester. In 1062 he was appointed Bishop. He was renowned for his care of the poor and sick and the high standards he asked of his clergy.
Thursday 20th January – St Sebastian: he was said to have been born in Gaul and brought up in Milan. Despite being a Christian, he entered the Roman army while Diocletian was emperor and was even promoted to the Praetorian Guard. All this time he was secretively converting others to Christianity. He was eventually betrayed to the authorities and sentenced to death by bow and arrow. There are the famous Renaissance paintings of this event by Boticelli, Bernini and El Greco. But legend has it that he amazingly survived this attempted martyrdom and he returned to the emperor’s palace to castigate Diocletian for his pagan policies. He was then beaten to death.
Friday 21st January – St. Agnes: She was martyred around the year 300 aged just 12 or 13 according to St. Ambrose. Little else is known about her, though, again, there are various legends about the reason for her martyrdom.
Saturday 22nd January – St. Vincent: He was still a boy when he was ordained a deacon. He was arrested in Spain and tortured most cruelly (reported by St. Augustine in some detail).

PRAYER FOR PEACE SUNDAY AND THE OCTAVE OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY
Lord, you led us out of darkness to hope in Jesus. Unite us in our communion to establish your reign of love, justice and peace, bringing light to those living in the darkness of despair and disillusionment. Shine your light upon us and surround us with the warmth of your love. Draw us by the light of the New Jerusalem. Lift us up to you, so that our lives may glorify you, Father Son and Spirit. Amen.
From our first reading today:
“About Zion, I will not grow weary, until her integrity shines out like the dawn and her salvation flames like a torch….No longer are you to be named ‘Forsaken’ nor your land ‘Abandoned’ but you shall be called ‘My Delight’…”

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD
WEEK: JANUARY 9TH – 15TH 2022

THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD

“You are my Son, the Beloved; My favour rests on you.”

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Sr. Catherine; Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Michael Tootill, Stefan Togyer, Phoebe Jane Campbell, Andrew Giblie, Rev. Derek Palmer, Ewa Kubot
LATELY DEAD: Maureen McGuin, David Kennedy, Trefor Cole, Lidia Rak, Jean Green. Sister Aloysius (McConville), Olga Saj, Peter Guilfoyle, Rita Barnes, David Kennedy
ANNIVERSARIES: Margaret Grudzien, Judith Dwyer, David Monaghan, Frances Atkinson, Wilfred and Raymond Brooks, Fr. Joseph Beswick, Paddy Jo Canny, Teresa, Edmund and Bridgett Donovan, Margaret Hywell, Sheila Bradbury, Fred and Elizabeth Ann Lees, Margaret, Edgar and Paul Lees

COLLECTION: £519.99
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £20.00; CAFOD £1,140.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

Face coverings in church are now required by law unless people are exempt for medical or other reasons.

Social distancing is also still requested (1 metre apart from others not in your family).

THE CURRENT SACRAMENTAL PROGRAMME FOR FIRST COMMUNION
The next occasions for the current sacramental programme will be for the Holy Rosary Group on Saturday 15th January at 10am in St. Patrick’s Church. The next session for the St. Patrick’s Group will be on Saturday 22nd January in St. Patrick’s Church at 10am.

THE FEAST OF THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD
Rather like writing an essay, Jesus, in agreeing to be baptised by John, is pointing, right at the beginning of his ministry, to what the conclusion of his ministry will be. He shows that he is prepared even to be thought of as a sinner (accepting the baptism of people acknowledging their sinfulness) as he would take our sins upon him again on the cross and, there too, be thought of as a sinner, and someone deserted by God. And, for Jesus, baptism is a type of death, death to an old way of life. You will remember that he is quoted in the Gospels, saying “There is another baptism I must undergo…” (Luke 12:50) when he is referring to his death on the cross. He is, therefore, announcing just what his ministry would be about.

CAFOD EMERGENCY APPEAL
CAFOD is combining efforts with the DEC to launch the Afghanistan Crisis Appeal. In Afghanistan, 8 million people are on the brink of famine because of drought, collapsing economy, food shortages, conflict, and COVID. CAFOD is supporting Caritas agencies there to reach communities most in need with food, clean water, and fuel. During Advent, when we open ourselves to the needs of others, let’s do all that we can to save lives. You can simply donate by putting some money in an envelope, marked ‘CAFOF emergency appeal’ and put it in the collection basket or give it in to me.

PEACE SUNDAY
Peace Sunday is on 16 January, 2022. The theme chosen for 2022 by Pope Francis is: "Education, work and dialogue between generations: tools for building lasting peace"
Pope Francis is inviting us to think of the role of education and upbringing in building lasting peace, and creating solidarity and dialogue between generations as a way of building peace. This provides a golden opportunity for families, schools and groups to explore their role in peacemaking.

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Wednesday, 12th January. St. Aelred of Rievaulx. Born in 1110 and died in 1167. He was educated at Durham and in the King’s household in Scotland. He entered the Cistercian monastery at Rievaulx in 1134 and was eventually elected Abbot. He is remembered for his spiritual writings, above all on the gift of friendship.
Thursday 13th January – St Hilary: born of pagan parents, in 325, he was baptised as an adult and chosen as Bishop of Poitiers.

DIOCESAN VACANCIES
Re-advertisement: Parish Development Coordinator (with responsibility for Synod)
Appointment type: Full-time, permanent (35 hours per week. Some evening and weekend work will be required).
Location: Cathedral Centre, 3 Ford Street, Salford, M3 6DP
Salary: £26,000 - £28,000
Closing Date: 12 noon on Friday 14th January 2022
Chancery & Tribunal Senior Administrator (replacement role):
Appointment type: Permanent, full-time or part-time (35 hours per week full time, or 30 hours per week will also be considered).
Location: Cathedral Centre, 3 Ford Street, Salford, M3 6DP
Salary: £26,000 - £28,000 per annum.
Closing Date: 12 noon on Friday 14th January 2022
For further information and to apply, please visit www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/news/vacancies/

SOME QUESTIONS FOR RESPONDING TO THE SYNOD
I am hoping to hold a Parish discussion, about these questions and others, as the Pandemic, hopefully, subsides. This will probably be at the end of February.
Listening: How can we best listen to each other, in the Church and in the wider world?
Sharing in the Mission How can we best share the Good News of Jesus with others? What difference are we currently making?
Dialogue in Church and Society In what ways do our parishes/communities speak to each other and the wider society? How could we do this better?
With the other Christian Denominations and other faiths How are we as a community listening to, and enriched by, other Christian denominations and other faiths?

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

THE SECOND SUNDAY OF CHRISTMAS
WEEK: JANUARY 2ND – 8TH 2022

THE SECOND SUNDAY OF CHRISTMAS

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Sr. Catherine; Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Peter Guilfoyle, Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Trefor Cole, Lidia Rak, Michael Tootill, Stefan Togyer, Phoebe Jane Campbell, Andrew Giblie, Rev. Derek Palmer
LATELY DEAD: Maureen McGuin
ANNIVERSARIES: Richard Teefy, Margaret Woodcock, David Humphry, Irene Dodd, Shane John Carter, Frances Atkinson, Wilfred and Raymond Brooks

COLLECTION: £1033.41
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £40; CAFOD £73.60
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

Face coverings in church are now required by law unless people are exempt for medical or other reasons.

Social distancing is also still requested (1 metre apart from others not in your family).

THIS SUNDAY’S READINGS
In the first reading we hear of wisdom (which Christians understand as Christ) being instructed to ‘pitch her tent in Jacob…taking root in a privileged people.’ The second reading recognises the privileges we have received and encourages us to acknowledge our blessings. The Gospel is a third showing in a few days (we heard it on Christmas Day and on 31st). The older people among us will remember this Gospel being read at the end Mass every day before Vatican II (1965), albeit in Latin. That fact suggests its importance to the Church. In it, John gives his version of the Christmas story, but there’s no mention, by him, of angels or shepherds, or of three kings. His is a more figurative account, speaking of Jesus as the Light of the world. This light is a sign of God reaching out to dispel the darkness in our world. There’s a recognition that this light is not so dazzling that it can’t be ignored or rejected; we are told that his own people did not accept it. But, despite its apparent vulnerability, it cannot be overpowered. To me, it’s a tremendously hopeful reading, speaking of God present in the very fabric (or DNA) of our world bringing healing and hope. And it can certainly take a third outing as we continue endure yet another wave of the corona virus pandemic.

A Happy New Year to you all! Hopefully, we will see the back of Covid-19 this year and we will, once more, all feel safe to celebrate Mass together each week!

QUOTATION
“A light that shines in the dark, a light that darkness could not overpower” (John’s Gospel).
“Even the darkest night will end, and the sun shall rise” (Victor Hugo”).
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that” (Martin Luther King Jr).
“However vast the darkness, we must supply our own light” (Stanley Kubrick).
“It’s better to light a candle than to curse the darkness” (Chinese proverb)

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Thursday, 6th January. Feast of the Epiphany (normally a Holyday of Obligation but not during this time of Covid-19)
Friday 7th January – St Raymond Penyafort: at the age of 47, Raymond entered the Dominican Order. He then became confessor to Pope Gregory IX and collated the Decrees of the Popes and Councils into the Book of Decretals. He lived to a grand old age and died in 1275. He is regarded as the Patron Saint of Canon Lawyers because of his work on the Decretals.

ECT PRIMARY POOL 2022
The Primary (Catholic Teachers) Pool is looking for ECT candidates due to gain Qualified Teacher Status in summer 2022 to recommend for interview to Catholic schools with vacancies for September 2022.
You can find out more and apply by visiting the Diocese of Salford website at https://www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/education/vacancies

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SALFORD ARE ALSO RECRUITING FOR A NUMBER OF ROLES

Catering Supervisor:
Appointment type: Full-time, 37 hours per week
Location: Cornerstone Day Centre, Manchester, M15 6JS
Salary: £22,183 - £23,541. Closing Date: 10am Tuesday 4 January 2022.

Fundraising Supporter Care Officer
Appointment type: Part-time, 20 hours per week
Location: Caritas House, Manchester, M4 (with opportunity to work flexibly)
Salary: £23,541 - £25,481 pro rata. Actual salary £12,725 - £13,773
Closing Date: 10am Thursday 6 January 2022.

Find out more and apply at https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/

MONDAY BREW AFTER MASS
No brews on 27th Dec or 3rd Jan. First one of the New year will be on 10th January (Covid restrictions allowing!).

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”

THE FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY
WEEK: DECEMBER 26TH – JANUARY 1ST 2022

THE FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY

“He then went down with them…and lived under their authority.”

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Sr. Catherine; Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Trefor Cole, Lidia Rak, Michael Tootill, Stefan Togyer, Phoebe Jane Campbell, Andrew Giblie, Rev. Derek Palmer
LATELY DEAD: Fernando Gavino, Vera Marsden, Rosa Karach, Chris O’Brien
ANNIVERSARIES: Denis Guilfoyle, Maggie Moores, Frances Michailuk, Mamma Lina Feniuk, Patricia Locke, Maureen, Edgar and Paul Lees, Dawn Cookson Martinez and baby Robbie, Edith Connelly, Luisa Escudero, Richard Teefy, Margaret Woodcock, Marie Francoise Boyi, David Humphry, Irene Dodd

COLLECTION: £634.52
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £75.00; Decoration £17.06; Missio £235.92
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

Face coverings in church are now required by law unless people are exempt for medical or other reasons.

Social distancing is also still requested (1 metre apart from others not in your family).

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday 27th December - St. John the Evangelist
Tuesday 28th December- Holy Innocents:
Wednesday 29th December – St Thomas Becket: Born in London in 1118, he became Chancellor of England and in 1162 was chosen to be Archbishop of Canterbury. He was exiled to France by King Henry II, and then, on his return, he was killed by friends of the King.
Friday, 31st December – St. Sylvester I: He became Pope in 314 and lived through the period of settlement under the Emperor Constantine.
Saturday, 1st January – Mary the Mother of God

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SALFORD ARE ALSO RECRUITING FOR A NUMBER OF ROLES

Catering Supervisor:
Appointment type: Full-time, 37 hours per week
Location: Cornerstone Day Centre, Manchester, M15 6JS
Salary: £22,183 - £23,541. Closing Date: 10am Tuesday 4 January 2022.

Fundraising Supporter Care Officer
Appointment type: Part-time, 20 hours per week
Location: Caritas House, Manchester, M4 (with opportunity to work flexibly)
Salary: £23,541 - £25,481 pro rata. Actual salary £12,725 - £13,773
Closing Date: 10am Thursday 6 January 2022.

Find out more and apply at https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/

MONDAY BREW AFTER MASS
No brews on 27th Dec or 3rd Jan. First one of the New year will be on 10th January (Covid restrictions allowing!).

THE SADDLEWORTH MALE VOICE CHOIR
The Saddleworth male Voice Choir is looking for new members. It is holding an "open rehearsal" on Wednesday 12th January at 7.30pm at the Lee Street Parish Centre in Uppermill (just behind Uppermill Civic Hall). The choir performs regularly singing a range of popular and secular music. Please come along and enjoy singing with us. For further information please contact: Mike Madden 0748691099

May you know Joy and Peace this Christmas
and in the coming Year!

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

THE FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT
WEEK: DECEMBER 19TH – 25TH 2021

The Fourth Sunday of Advent

“Blessed is she who believed that the promise made her by the Lord would be fulfilled.”

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Sr. Catherine; Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Trefor Cole, Lidia Rak, Michael Tootill, Stefan Togyer, Phoebe Jane Campbell, Andrew Giblie
LATELY DEAD: Denis Guilfoyle, Maggie Moores, Colin Riley, Avelino Batista, Elvira Batista, Alcino Batista, Maria Correia, Jose Correia, Ophelia Vieira, Frances Michailuk, Mamma Lina Feniuk, Patricia Locke, Maureen, Edgar and Paul Lees, Dawn Cookson Martinez and baby Robbie

COLLECTION: £572.78
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £7.70; Missio £15.16
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

Face coverings in church are now required by law unless people are exempt for medical or other reasons.

Social distancing is also still requested (1 metre apart from others not in your family).

SYNOD
Pope Francis has called a Universal Synod which is taking place in every Catholic diocese across the world. The Synod is themed: “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission”. We want to hear from as many people as possible, those involved in the church and those who are not. You can take part by completing an online submission using the QR code or following this link.
www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/3D3FXJ2.
Please share this link with family and friends. We have until 1st March 2022 to make our submissions then, after national and continental gatherings, the Synod of Bishops will gather in Rome in 2023 to reflect on what has been heard. Please remember the Synod in your prayers. Your contribution is invaluable and will make a considerable difference to the future of the Church in our diocese and across the world.
If you find the 13 questions to be too many to answer, just use the two questions: “What inspires you about the Church?” and “What concerns you about the Church?” But try to spend an equal amount on both questions! And perhaps you could say what aspects of life we, as Church, should be responding to at this time.

QUOTATION
“I will honour Christmas in my heart…. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me. I will not shut out the lessons that they teach.”― Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol

CHRISTMAS MASSES
The First Mass of Christmas will be on Christmas Eve at 8pm and then Mass on Christmas Day itself will be at the usual time of 10am. Masses on the Sunday (Boxing Day) will be at the usual times of 10am and 6pm. Then, I shall be going away for a few days!

ADVENT PODCASTS
Why not try out the Advent podcasts, prepared by our Folk Choir from previous services that were put together by Sister Eileen. These are available each week on the parish website.

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Tuesday 21st December- St Peter Canisius: A Dutch Jesuit, active in Germany during the counter reformation when he wrote a famous catechism. He died in 1597 and is called the second Apostle of Germany.
Thursday 23rd December – St. John of Kanty. Born near Kracow in 1390; after ordination he taught in the university there, He is remembered as an example of learning, charity and holiness. He died in 1473

PARISH RECONCILIATION SERVICE
Don’t forget the Parish Reconciliation service today (Sunday 19th December) at 3.15pm. It should last about three quarters of an hour.

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SALFORD ARE ALSO RECRUITING FOR A NUMBER OF ROLES

Catering Supervisor:
Appointment type: Full-time, 37 hours per week
Location: Cornerstone Day Centre, Manchester, M15 6JS
Salary: £22,183 - £23,541. Closing Date: 10am Tuesday 4 January 2022.

Fundraising Supporter Care Officer
Appointment type: Part-time, 20 hours per week
Location: Caritas House, Manchester, M4 (with opportunity to work flexibly)
Salary: £23,541 - £25,481 pro rata. Actual salary £12,725 - £13,773
Closing Date: 10am Thursday 6 January 2022.

Find out more and apply at https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/

MONDAY BREW AFTER MASS
No brews on 27th Dec or 3rd Jan. First one of the New year will be on 10th January (Covid restrictions allowing!).

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE
I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all the best for Christmas. We don’t yet know the full reality of the circumstances in which we will be celebrating (how many restrictions will be placed on us and the actual infection rates) but I hope that it is still a most blessed time for you all. Fr. Phil.

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

THE THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT
WEEK: DECEMBER 12TH – 18TH 2021

The Third Sunday of Advent

“He will exult with joy over you, He will renew you by his love.”

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Sr. Catherine; Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Trefor Cole, Lidia Rak, Michael Tootill, Stefan Togyer, Phoebe Jane Campbell
LATELY DEAD: Joan Fleet, Roy Wolstenholme, Christine O’Brien, Andrew Taylor, My Duyen Vo Tatlonghari
ANNIVERSARIES: Marie Francoise Boyi, Denis Guilfoyle, Maggie Moores, Colin Riley, Mary Dillamore, Bertha Doran, Vincent and Ethel Concannon

COLLECTION: £596.49
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £10.00; CAFOD £30.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

Face coverings in church are now required by law unless people are exempt for medical or other reasons.

Social distancing is also still requested (1 metre apart from others not in your family).

CARITAS SALFORD’S ADVENT APPEAL 2021: #LOVED
Caritas Salford’s work with children and families is at the heart of our Love in Action as much as it ever was, and is just one aspect of their diverse work supporting those facing crisis and challenge.
Please visit http://www.caritassalford.org.uk/advent-2021 to see the difference your donations have made in the past 12 months to over 5,000 families*.

CHRISTMAS MASSES
If you are planning ahead, I suggest that we have Mass on Christmas Eve (the first Mass of Christmas) at 8pm and then Mass on Christmas Day itself at the usual time of 10am. Masses on the Sunday (Boxing Day) will be at the usual times of 10am and 6pm. Then, I shall be going away for a few days!

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday 13th December – St. Lucy: Lucy’s name derives from the Latin word for ‘light’ and her feast day, in the old calendar, fell on the winter solstice, the shortest and darkest day of the year. She came from Syracuse in Sicily and, despite being promised to a man for marriage, she decided to remain a virgin and to give all her money to the poor. Her fiancé was not happy about this and denounced her as a Christian to the authorities. She was martyred.
Tuesday 14th December- St John of the Cross: St John was born in 1542 and is the author of the famous poem “Noche obscura del alma” (Dark night of the soul). He was a Carmelite priest and a friend of the great mystic St Teresa of Avila. He was imprisoned for undertaking to return the Carmelites to their primitive rule of poverty. It was while he was in his gaol cell in Toledo that he composed his great poem.

PARISH RECONCILIATION SERVICE
There will be a Parish Reconciliation service next Sunday 19th December at 3.15pm. It should last about three quarters of an hour.

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SALFORD ARE ALSO RECRUITING FOR A NUMBER OF ROLES

Catering Supervisor:
Appointment type: Full-time, 37 hours per week
Location: Cornerstone Day Centre, Manchester, M15 6JS
Salary: £22,183 - £23,541. Closing Date: 10am Tuesday 4 January 2022.

Fundraising Supporter Care Officer
Appointment type: Part-time, 20 hours per week
Location: Caritas House, Manchester, M4 (with opportunity to work flexibly)
Salary: £23,541 - £25,481 pro rata. Actual salary £12,725 - £13,773
Closing Date: 10am Thursday 6 January 2022.

Find out more and apply at https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK
Annabelle Harris (it’s a big birthday!)
Branden Niala
Lionel Boyi

CHRISTMAS CAROLS WITH THE ST PHILIP NERI SINGERS AND DIOCESE OF SALFORD YOUNG ADULTS
An evening of festive music is coming to St Augustine's Roman Catholic Church this December with a special carol concert organised in association with the Diocese of Salford Young Adults.
Featuring beautiful performances of some of the best-loved carols from the wonderful St Philip Neri Singers, this festive concert will be followed by mulled wine and mince pies.
It will take place at 4pm on Sunday 19 December at St Augustine's Roman Catholic Church, Grosvenor Street, Manchester.
All are very welcome to attend. Please contact Fr Michael Deas at michael.deas@dioceseofsalford.org.uk for further information.

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

THE SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT
WEEK: DECEMBER 5TH – 11TH 2021

Second Sunday of Advent

COLLECTION: £567.74
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Mission £40.00; Foodbank £35.00; CAFOD £10.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

NOTICES:
All Masses will continue to be live streamed. A link is provided on the Parish website: www.smwsp.org.uk or via the Twitter App (@PhilipSumner13).
The Obligation to attend Mass on Sunday is still suspended until further notice.
There is, now, no longer any need to book your places for the 10am Mass on a Sunday morning All the ropes that have blocked access to every second bench have now been removed. I would still ask that families try to keep to one bench and not join others already in a bench.
Face coverings in church are still encouraged even if they are not required by law; however, some people are exempt for medical or other reasons. Social distancing is also still requested (1 metre apart from others not in your family).

THE CURRENT SACRAMENTAL PROGRAMME FOR FIRST COMMUNION
The next occasions for the current sacramental programme will be for the Holy Rosary Group, who will be making their first confessions at a reconciliation service on Saturday 4th December at 2pm in St. Patrick’s Church. The St. Patrick’s group will make their first confessions on Saturday 11th December at a reconciliation service in St. Patrick’s Church at 2pm.

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday 6th December – St. Nicholas. We know him best by his Dutch name, “Santa Claus”. He is a saint revered in both the East and the West. After his parents died of the plague, he set about doing good deeds. The plight of three women who were destitute became known to him and he is said to have thrown three bags of gold through their window. These three balls of gold became the symbol used by the pawnbrokers representing financial aid in a time of need. He became Bishop of Myra, a city in Southwest Turkey. He is thought to have been murdered in the Diocletian persecution of 305.
Tuesday 7th December- St Ambrose: St Ambrose was a lawyer in Milan and not yet baptised when, inspired the shouts of a child in the crowd, the people of the city made him their bishop. He was renowned for his eloquence as a preacher and for his gifts as a hymn-writer. He is said to have baptised Augustine.
Wednesday 8th December – The Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
Saturday 11th December: St. Damasus I (Pope) – Born in Spain, he became Pope in 366 and encouraged devotion to the martyrs of Rome. He, therefore, ordered that the catacombs, in which they were entombed, be excavated, drained, adorned and opened to the public.

PARISH RECONCILIATION SERVICE
There will be a Parish Reconciliation service on Sunday 19th December at 3.15pm. It should last about three quarters of an hour.

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”

THE FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT
WEEK: NOVEMBER 28TH – DECEMBER 4TH 2021

A shoot shall sprout

YOUR CHARITABLE PRAYERS are requested for our parishioners and friends, especially those whose names appear below.
SICK: Sr. Catherine; Vivien Higgins; Margaret Lawless; Michael Guilfoyle; Dominic Boardman. Kath Green: Cyril Clarke; Elizabeth Flanagan, Angela Marshall, Mary Ruffle, Pete McNamara, Joseph McConnon, Margaret Cole, Trefor Cole, Mary O’Connor, Lee John Carter, Christine Wolstenholme, Anne Sobreski
LATELY DEAD: Mary Theresa Collins, Iris Cumberbirch, Roy Wolstenholme, Fr. Norman Davitt SDB, Jack Green
ANNIVERSARIES: Christopher Alan Whitehead, Paddy McGinn, Jack Millett, Terence Lees, Michael and Catherine McGladdery, Christopher Febrero, the Windrow family, Vincent Hall and Eileen Hall, Mary Ann Coen, Elizabeth Lucas

COLLECTION: £853.86
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £20.00; CAFOD £10.00
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Tuesday 30th - St Andrew (Apostle): St Andrew was the brother of St Peter. When Jesus called them to be apostles, he promised to make them ‘fishers of men’.
After the Ascension, Andrew worked mostly in Greece. He is, of course, the Patron Saint of Scotland.
Wednesday 3rd December - St. Francis Xavier: He was a Basque Spaniard and a friend of St. Ignatius Loyola and one of the first Jesuits. He preached in India, arriving at the Portuguese colony of Goa. After about seven years, he set sail for Japan where he became the first European to set foot on those islands and preached there for two years with incredible success. He then set off for China but died on an island off the coast of China in 1552.
Saturday 4th December: St. John Damascene – He was from Damascus in Syria. He became a monk, a philosopher, a theologian and a Defender of Sacred Art during the iconoclast crisis of the eighth century

PARISH RECONCILIATION SERVICE
There will be a Parish Reconciliation service on Sunday 19th December at 3.15pm. It should last about three quarters of an hour.

CHANNEL DEATHS
Channel deaths “tragic summons to action”, says Cardinal. Following the tragic death of at least 27 migrants in the Channel on Wednesday – the worst-ever migrant tragedy in that body of water – Cardinal Vincent Nichols said:
“The terrible loss of so many lives in the Channel is a tragic summons to action. This event illustrates graphically both the ruthless evil of the traffickers and the desperation of those trying to escape poverty, conflict or persecution in search of a better life."

FUTURE EVENTS
Oldham Interfaith Forum's Festival of Light 2021 is being held on the 1st of December. The Festival of Light celebrates Christmas, Chanukkah, Diwali and Mualid un Nabbi.
When? Wednesday 1st December
What time? Starting at 6.30pm,
Where? Queen Elizabeth II Hall, West Street, Civic Centre Oldham
To reserve your FREE PLACE please email Fazal Rahim at oldham_interfaith@msn.com

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

THE FEAST OF CHRIST THE KING
WEEK: NOVEMBER 21ST – 27TH 2021

Christ the King

“I was born for this. I came into the world for this, to bear witness to the truth”.

COLLECTION: £455.17
Standing Order: £624 a month

CHURCH BOXES / DONATIONS: Foodbank £21.15; CAFOD £26.50
Many thanks for your kind generosity.

ONLINE FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PARISH:
Our Bank: Barclays Bank - Account Name: TSDT St Mary and St Patrick Oldham; Sort Code 20 55 34; Account Number 50949825; Reference: Contr.

THE CURRENT SACRAMENTAL PROGRAMME FOR FIRST COMMUNION
The next meetings for the current sacramental programme will be on Saturday 27th November at 10am for the St. Patrick’s Group. The Holy Rosary Group will be making their first confessions at a reconciliation service on Saturday 4th December at 2pm in St. Patrick’s Church. The St. Patrick’s group will make their first confessions on Saturday 11th December at a reconciliation service in St. Patrick’s Church at 2.00pm.

ANY QUESTIONS ON FAITH EVENT
This event will take place on the 23rd of November. The Venue is Holy Trinity Church, Godson Street, Oldham, OL1 2DB. The Panel will be made up of Hindu, Christian and Muslim speakers. The event will offer opportunities to ask any questions on faith you always wanted answered but have not had a chance to ask. 6.30pm start and anticipated to end at 8.00pm followed by a simple shared meal which will offer possibilities for further discussions.

GENESIS MISSION INTRODUCTION SESSION
Cathedral Centre, Salford – Saturday 27th November 2021, 10:00am-1:00pm
As part of Stage 4 of Hope in the Future, it is our intention to focus explicitly on missionary discipleship. By this we mean an integration of a newly formed or deepened missionary attitude, with practical tools and ways to share the Gospel sensitively and appropriately in everyday life. Fr Jon Bielawski and Michele Thompson from the Diocese of Plymouth will give an introduction to Genesis Mission and share how you can get involved.
For more information and to register, visit www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/genesis-mission-introduction-session/

FORMATION SERIES
Fr Eamonn Mulcahy - Synods and the Church under Pope Francis Wednesday 24 November 2021, 7.30pm, Cathedral Centre and Zoom. Pope Francis is inviting the Catholic Church to listen deeply to one another and to discern what God is saying to the Church. Fr Eamonn will help us explore Pope Francis’ vision for a Synodal Church. The session will take place on Wednesday 24 November at the Cathedral Centre and via Zoom. The talk will begin at 7.30pm, with refreshments from 7pm. Suggested donations of £5 are welcome. To register for the event, visit www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/synods-and-the-church-under-pope-francis/

THIS WEEK’S FEASTS OR SPECIAL DAYS
Monday 15th November – St. Cecilia. Patroness of composers and musicians.
Tuesday 23rd November – St. Clement. He was the third Pope after St. Peter. It’s also the feast day of St. Columban on this day. He was born in Ireland in the middle of the sixth century. He embraced the monastic life and went to France where he founded a number of monasteries. He considerably revitalised the faith in France which had been set in such chaos by the ‘barbarian hordes’. His stubborn orthodoxy brought him into conflict with the French King, who ordered his deportation. He ended up in Italy where he warned the Pope of the potential abuse of the Papacy.
Wednesday 24th November – Saint Andrew Dung-Lac and companions (Martyrs). This is the remembrance of the 117 Vietnamese people martyred between 1820 and 1862 in the vicious persecutions taking place there. Andrew was a parish priest, but the group includes other priest, bishops and lay people.
Thursday 25th November – St. Catherine of Alexandria.
Catherine was an Egyptian Queen, who preferred the study of philosophy to the prospect of marriage to the Roman Emperor Maxentius. Angry at being refused, the Emperor finally ordered that she be stretched out on a spiked wheel (the infamous ‘Catherine wheel’). The wheel was strangely shattered, but the Emperor then gave the order for her to be beheaded. Her body was taken to the monastery below Mount Sinai.

FUTURE EVENTS

Don’t forget the International Music Festival next Saturday 27th November at 3pm in the Church. Anyone is welcome! You don’t need a ticket. Just come along and enjoy the feast of music and the vibrancy and skill of all our contributors. Each group take this very seriously and they always put on performances that are so enjoyable.

Oldham Interfaith Forum's Festival of Light 2021 is being held on the 1st of December. The Festival of Light celebrates Christmas, Chanukkah, Diwali and Mualid un Nabbi.
When? Wednesday 1st December
What time? Starting at 6.30pm,
Where? Queen Elizabeth II Hall, West Street, Civic Centre Oldham
To reserve your FREE PLACE please email Fazal Rahim at oldham_interfaith@msn.com

“Stay With Us Lord On Our Journey”p

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WEEKLY SERVICES
SUNDAY:	10.00am. 12.30pm (Polish Mass) 6.00pm
MONDAY:	12 noon Mass
TUESDAY:	12 noon Mass
WEDNESDAY: (Holyday of Obligation)	12 noon Mass and 6.00pm
THURSDAY:	12 noon Mass
FRIDAY:	12 noon Mass
SATURDAY	12 noon Mass