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Newsletter: 13th June 2021 – 11th Sunday Ordinary Time Year B

My Dearest Parishioners, Visitors, Friends – Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ

Today, Jesus gives us two parables about farming: the parable of the scattered seed, and the parable of the mustard seed. These were images that the men and women listening to Jesus could relate to, since most of them spent their days in the fields planting, watering and reaping. Our Lord told these parables using something they knew —agricultural work— in order to teach them something they did not know about: the Kingdom of God!

Indeed Jesus teaches something about his spiritual Kingdom. In the first parable He says: “This is how it is with the kingdom of God; it is as if a man were to scatter seed on the land” (Mk 4:26). And He introduces the second by saying, “To what shall we compare the kingdom of God? It is like a mustard seed” (Mk 4:30).

Most of us today have little in common with those farmers; yet these parables can powerfully resonate in our modern minds because we can still understand quite a lot about planting, watering and harvesting, and somehow we sense through his words, that God has planted something in our hearts that will not allow us to move completely away from him.
What is the Kingdom of God? It is «Jesus himself», as Pope Benedict XVI reminds us. And our soul «is the essential location of the Kingdom of God». God wants to live and grow inside us. If we seek God’s wisdom and obey his commands, our life will become as steady as a rock and acquire a power that we can barely imagine.

If we patiently correspond to his grace, his divine life will definitely grow in the soul the way seed grows in the field or, as the medieval mystic, Meister Eckhart, has beautifully expressed: «The seed of God is in us. Given an intelligent and hard-working farmer and a diligent field hand, it will thrive and grow up to God, whose seed it is; and accordingly its fruits will be God nature. Pear seeds grow into pear trees, nut seeds into nut trees, and God seed into God».

As we celebrate the Year of the Eucharist in the Diocese of Portsmouth, please – let’s do our best to follow resolutions to benefit from this jubilee and grow even closer to the Eucharistic Jesus.

REFLECTION

Introductory Prayer: Lord, I believe you have called me to strive tirelessly to extend your Kingdom throughout the world. I hope in you because you are the one the Father sent. I love you. Thank you for inviting me to be an apostle of your Kingdom.

Petition: Lord Jesus, make me an apostle of your Kingdom.

1. Kingdom of God: Christ returns to this theme again and again. It was the topic of his first public sermon. He gives us the image of the mustard seed which grows to be the largest of plants and in turn serves other creatures’ needs. The Kingdom of God is like this. God is king and his Kingdom, like the mustard tree, is a safe haven for us. We can dwell in its shade, rest on its branches, and find protection from evils. All we have to do is be faithful subjects of our King, following his commands and going out to spread the news of his Kingdom to all people.

2. Modest Beginnings: We should not get anxious when we do not progress in the spiritual life as fast as we would like. God moves us along little by little. The life of our relationship with Christ does not depend solely on us, but on him. We are like good farmers who do our part to make sure the conditions are good for the seed to grow, but it is the Creator who makes the growth happen. Often, we do not perceive the work of God in our souls until much time has passed. However, he is constantly there, pulling out our weeds one at a time, and pushing our virtues to the surface.

3. Called to Greatness: Two thousand years ago, Christ’s Church started off like a small mustard seed. It has grown and matured to be a huge plant with many branches. I am one of those branches. Christ brings life to my branch and assigns me a specific task. He calls me to participate in the great mission of his Church. Do I realize and relish how great it is to be a Catholic, how much good the Church does, how I am called to be a link that will bring others to experience the same goodness I have experienced?

Conversation with Christ: Lord Jesus, I am a member of your Mystical Body. I want to partake in your mission of bringing all souls to know and love you. I have found my joy in you, and now I have a burning desire to make it known to all people. Lord, I pray for the courage to keep going, never tiring from the mission you have given me.

Resolution: I will take a moment in prayer to reflect on how God has worked in my life, making me grow.

with Blessings and prayerful best wishes, Father Marcin Drabik

Service Times from Saturday June 13th 2021  until June 20th 2021 – All Services will also be streamlined on-line
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    Download this week's Newsletter here: Newsletter: 13th June 2021 – 11th Sunday Ordinary Time Year B
    DateLocationlinks to readings and Services
    Sunday 13th June 2021 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time B
    		St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 13-06-2021
    Monday 14th June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 14-06-2021
    Tuesday 15th June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 15-06-2021
    Wednesday 16th June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 16-06-2021
    Thursday 17th June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 17-06-2021
    Friday 18th June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 18-06-2021
    Saturday 19th June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 19-06-2021
    Sunday 20th June 2021 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time B
    		St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 20-06-2021

     

     

     Read today’s Readiings here

    Thoughts on Today's Gospel and Readings for the Week - 13-06-2021

    Thoughts on Today’s Gospel and Readings for the Week – 13-06-2021

    Background on the Gospel Reading Mark 4:26–34 The reign of God is like a mustard seed. After Lent, the Easter season, and three Sundays of feast days—Pentecost, Most Holy Trinity, and Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ—the Church returns to Ordinary Time. This Sunday’s Gospel from Mark carries a significant message regarding faith and the Kingdom of God. In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus appears reluctant to reveal his identity as the Son of God. After performing miracles of healing, he warns those cured to tell no one (see Mark 1:44, 3:12, 5:43, 7:36, and 8:26). Also, when preaching, Jesus chooses to speak to the crowds in parables, leaving them to discern his message. Only to his disciples does he explain the parable’s meaning, and he does this in private at a later time. Today’s Gospel Reading consists of two parables about seeds. In the first, Jesus tells those gathered that ...
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    Dr. Scott Hahn - Gospel Reflections 13-06-2021

    Dr. Scott Hahn – Gospel Reflections 13-06-2021

    Tree of Righteousness: Scott Hahn Reflects on the Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time In the cryptic message of the prophet Ezekiel, long centuries before the Lord’s coming, God gave His people reason to hope. Ezekiel glimpsed a day when the Lord God would place a tree on a mountain in Israel, a tree that would “put forth branches and bear fruit.” Who could have predicted that the tree would be a cross on the hill of Calvary, and that the fruit would be salvation? Ezekiel foresees salvation coming to “birds of every kind”—thus, not just to the people of Israel, but also to the Gentiles, who will “take wing” through their new life in Christ. God indeed will “lift high the lowly tree,” as He solemnly promises. Such salvation surpasses humanity’s most ambitious dreams. And so we express our gratitude in the Psalm: “Lord, it is good to give thanks ...
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    Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 13-06-2021

    What is Faith? A fun Catholic reflection for kids based on the readings for the 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time, cycle B (Catholic Kids Media) A fun Catholic reflection for kids based on the readings for the Trinity Sunday, cycle B. Support this channel on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/catholickidsm...​ Or on Venmo: @catholickidsmedia Catholic Kids Media Jesus tells us that size just doesn't matter it what we do that does. In Sunday’s Gospel, Mark 4:26-34, Jesus uses the story of the mustard seed to describe God’s Kingdom. Mustard seeds are tiny but grow into big bushes with big branches. Big enough for birds to be able to sit in and get out of the sun. Jesus is telling us that size doesn’t matter – even the tiniest seed can produce a great big tree. And the same is true for us – even the smallest person can do great things. And even ...
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    Commentary on Readings:Ezekiel 17:22-24 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 Mark 4:26-34

    Commentary on Readings:Ezekiel 17:22-24 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 Mark 4:26-34

    TODAY’S MASS readings are about how God works — with us and without us. In another sense, we could say they remind us that God’s work will be carried out whether we cooperate or not. If we choose not to cooperate, God’s plans will not be frustrated but we ourselves will be the losers. The Gospel consists of two parables which are quite different in meaning but which have a common theme in being connected with the growth of plants. What is the Kingdom? In the first parable Jesus tell us what the kingdom of God is like. To begin with, perhaps a few words about the ‘Kingdom’ are in order because it is a term which frequently appears in the Gospel. What is this ‘kingdom’? First of all, it is not a place. The Greek word basileia (basileia) is an abstract word which means ‘kingship’ or ‘reign’ rather than ...
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    Mustard Seed 2

     

    Year of the Eucharist – Prepare your soul for Communion by going to confession more often

    As we celebrate the Year of the Eucharist in the Diocese of Portsmouth, please – let’s do our best to follow resolutions to benefit from this jubilee and grow even closer to the Eucharistic Jesus. Deepening the First resolution:

    1. Prepare your soul for Communion by going to confession more often. You will be able to experience the peace that is the fruit of the Eucharist.

    To make a good confession demands prior preparation. The better the prior preparation, ...
    Read more here

    Diocese of Portsmouth – Year of the Eucharist begins

    In our Diocese of Portsmouth, we will begin a Year of the Eucharist starting on the Feast of Corpus Christi, 6th June 2021. As you know, in these years 2020 to 2022, I am inviting everyone in the Diocese to undertake by God’s grace a period of intense, spiritual renewal. The purpose ultimately is to help us realise our diocesan ambition of Bringing People Closer to Jesus Christ through His Church. We are always totally dependent on God and His grace ...
    Read more here

    Pastoral Letter from Bishop Philip 08-06-2021

    Bishop Philip writes... 8th June 2021
    This last Sunday, Corpus Christi, I published a Pastoral Letter to be read at all Masses across the Diocese. It’s an invitation to undertake the Year of the Eucharist. Click on the picture for the video recording. You can read it here. My dear Brothers and Sisters in the Lord, I am writing to you with an invitation. But let me first wish you today a very happy Feastday, Corpus ...
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    Bishop Philip and The Diocesan Vision

    Bringing People Closer to Jesus Christ through His Church – that is the aim that should unite and inspire everything we do as a Diocese, parishes and schools, families, groups and individuals. But what does this mean? Click on the picture for a one-page sheet that fills this out. Over the last few years, we have developed a clear understanding of what this means. The overall aim is to grow in holiness, that is, each one of us deepening ...
    Read more here

    Statement from the Catholic Church on the Proposed Assisted Suicide Bill

    There are moves afoot to make assisted suicide available in Jersey. At the same time, a Private Member’s Bill introduced by Baroness Meacher is making its way through the House of Lords, with spirited support from some of the national press and media. Bishop John Sherrington, the lead Bishop for Life Issues, has issued a statement outlining the Catholic Church’s opposition. The fragility of life and the reality of death has been brought into sharp focus during the Covid ...
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    Hymn for Today: Lyrics - Mustard Seed  - David Ashley Trent

    Hymn for Today: Lyrics – Mustard Seed  – David Ashley Trent

    Behind the Song: -  Mustard Seed  - David Ashley Trent Matthew 17:20 “…Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” Hebrews 11:1 “Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.” “Lord, increase our faith,” (Luke 17:5). This was the prayer of the early Christians, and it should be our continual prayer as well. If the smallest amount of faith can move ...
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    Father Mike Schmitz – Going to Confession for the First Time in a Long Time

    Learn more about the Pocket Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation with Fr. Mike Schmitz and Fr. Josh Johnson. Confession is a place of never ending mercy and forgiveness, and is one of the most beautiful parts of our Catholic faith. But for many, it can also be a very daunting experience, especially if it’s been a long time since your last confession. Whether it’s the first time you’ve gone in a year, or it’s the first time you’ve gone in your life, God is ready and willing to forgive your sins. All we have to do is let him into our hearts. Today, ...
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    World Day of Prayer for the Sanctification of Priests 2021

    The World Day of Prayer for the Sanctification of Priests takes place every year on the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. This year the Solemnity is on Friday, June 11, 2021. This Friday, 11th June 2021, is the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, a happy day. The Sacred Heart “reveals the merciful love of our Saviour who banishes all fear, shame and discouragement from our own hearts. The Heart of Jesus continues to beat for us in heaven, pouring out its infinite merits upon us through the sacraments. Devotion to the Sacred Heart remains ...
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    Father Mike Schmitz – Have You Mastered the Basics of Your Faith?

    Have You Mastered the Basics of Your Faith? Fr. Mike makes the case that, before you claim a certain “style” in practicing the faith, you have to master the basics. He tells a story about when he was learning guitar. The teacher told his students to hold their guitar on an angle with their left knee higher than their right. This way they could play all kinds of music. Some of the students decided they wanted to hold the guitar their own way. This limited what they could play. Living the Faith is the same way. If you’re told to ...
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    Father Mike Schmitz – How to Keep Your Faith Alive and Growing

    Why is it easier to fuel our faith at retreats and conferences? Can we have this same fire at home? You can probably reflect on a certain moment or time period in your life that your faith seemed to flourish more than it ever has. Usually this happens when we go on retreats, mission trips, or faith conferences. But along with these moments of powerful formation comes the decline we experience when they’re over, and we go back home. Why is that? Retreats offer us an opportunity to encounter our faith away from the distractions of the world. They are ...
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    Philip Kosloski - How the Sacred Heart devotion is a summary of the spiritual life

    Philip Kosloski – How the Sacred Heart devotion is a summary of the spiritual life

    Pope Pius XI believed the devotion was the "sum of all religion" and provided a key to the virtuous life. Devotion to the Sacred Heart has its roots in the Bible and has developed over the centuries. It was never a popular devotion until the the private revelations given to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque in the 17th century. After that it became very popular among the faithful and the Church began to speak directly about this devotion, instituting a universal feast honoring the Sacred Heart. When reflecting on this devotion in his encyclical, Miserentissimus Redemptor, Pope Pius XI wrote that ...
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    Philip Kosloski - 5 Things to know about the Sacred Heart feast

    Philip Kosloski – 5 Things to know about the Sacred Heart feast

    Here is a brief guide to the feast of the Sacred Heart and its rich history. The solemnity of the Sacred Heart is celebrated each year by the Catholic Church, honoring Jesus’ divine love for humanity.However, the feast wasn’t always on the calendar and took many centuries before it was established and spread throughout the world. 1 JESUS REQUESTED THE FEAST IN 1675 St. Margaret Mary Alacoque received private revelations from Jesus Christ. Jesus spoke to her on June 16, 1675, and asked her specifically to promote a feast that honored his Sacred Heart. 2 THE FEAST IS HELD THE ...
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    Statement issued by the Diocese of Westminster - The Sacrament of Matrimony

    Statement issued by the Diocese of Westminster – The Sacrament of Matrimony

    The recent marriage of the Prime Minister and his fiancé Carrie Symonds has continued to cause comment. Here we give the statement issued by the Diocese of Westminster. “On Saturday 29 May, the wedding of Carrie Symonds and Boris Johnson took place in Westminster Cathedral. The bride and groom are both parishioners of the Westminster Cathedral parish and baptised Catholics. It is not appropriate to comment on the personal circumstances or disposition of this couple, other than to confirm that this marriage took place in full accordance with the requirements of the Church. These requirements, rather than sentiment, must guide ...
    Read more here

     

     

     

    We would like to thank – from a depth of our hearts for an incredibly special and beautiful flowers arrangements prepared for us for Pentecost Sunday and Corpus Christi (Sacraments of Confirmation and First Holy Confessions & Communion).

    Our Thanksgiving to Mrs Ewa Frączak from Blossom Boutique in Southsea: http://www.blossomboutiqueflowers.co.uk
    Blossom Boutique 99 Palmerston Road PO5 3PS Portsmouth / Tel: 02392 831333

     

    Keep up with what’s Happening in our Parish over this coming Year

    Scroll through to see all the events happening from the 12th June 2021 till the 30th June 2021

    Or Go to our Parish Events Diary and search a specific date or event  here https://stswithuns.org.uk/events/

    THIS WEEK FOR ALL:  Through: https://www.facebook.com/Stswithuns.org.uk

    Facebook Profile – in English (St Swithuns RC Church Southsea): ‘A GLASS OF WINE’ with Fr Marcin – Q&A of The Catholic Faith on:

    TUESDAY at 8.00pm – SUBJECT: ‘Come, Holy Spirit, Come – A need and how to cultivate the gifts of the Holy Spirit in us’;
    THURSDAY at 8.00pm – SUBJECT: ‘Follow the path of holiness – we are called to accept the gift of humanity;

    Facebook Profile –in Polish (St Swithuns RC Kościół Southsea): ‘MORNING COFFEE WITH MYSTICS’ brewed by Fr Marcin on: 

    ‘MORNING COFFEE WITH MYSTICS’ brewed by Fr Marcin on: TUESDAY at 11.15am;

    Children Pray together via our Zoom Online Catholic School:

    Your children can join us for our Zoom online Catholic School  (PLEASE NOT: REGISTRATION IS NEED – see the form below)

    Other News

    On Wednesday 23rd June, the Vigil of St John the Baptist, please pray and fast for the end of abortion and euthanasia in this Country. On this month’s Day of Prayer and Fasting for Life, we are especially asking you to fast and pray for the end of DIY abortions at home. Please join in and invite others to join as well. https://www.facebook.com/events/121521016724148
    URGENT APPEAL - FOOD PARCELS FOR OUR HOMELESS NEEDED IN PORTSMOUTH

    URGENT APPEAL – FOOD PARCELS FOR OUR HOMELESS NEEDED IN PORTSMOUTH

    Dear Friends, as You know – we try our best to help homeless (and the poor) in many ways. One of them, very important and popular is providing the lunch on Sundays, with an incredible generosity and sacrifice from St Vincent de Paul’s members of our Parish. We need your help in this difficult times, to make by yourself 45 packed lunches or to provide us with the products or donation, so we can make it by ourselves. Each packed lunch includes: - 2 sandwiches; - At least 1 fruit; - Something to drink (a juice, water) - Something sweet ...
    Read more here
    Ascent Group - Events 2021 Timetable

    Ascent Group – Events 2021 Timetable

    Dear Friends May you be blessed with a happy and hopeful New Year. Although we are still in the midst of illness and restrictions, there are signs of hope as vaccines begin to be rolled out. We thank God for the answers to prayers made right at the beginning of the pandemic, that vaccines would be developed quickly; and we continue to pray for those suffering and for an end to the global crisis. ADoRE monthly sessions will continue online for the foreseable future, and we are encouraged by many positive reactions already to our 2021 programme plans - see below ...
    Read more here
    going into hospital

    GOING INTO HOSPITAL?

    GOING INTO HOSPITAL? Due to strict data protection rules it is essential on entering hospital to indicate your details or those of your relative to be passed on to the Catholic Chaplain. Also state that you or your relative would like the Catholic Chaplain to visit you. Chaplains visit the wards during the week and provide an on-call service in case of emergency ...
    Read more here

    CLICK HERE – NEW SECTION: LINK TO THE LATEST PORTSMOUTH DIOCESE E_NEWSLETTER

    UPDATE ON FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PROGRAMME FOR THIS NEW YEAR 2021

    tbc

    UPDATE ON BAPTISM REQUESTS 

    • If you need a copy of Baptism certificate please contact the Parish Office.
    • If you want to get someone baptised then feel free to make an appointment with father Marcin.

    For those who would like to arrange a Baptism for their child:

    – Please collect a Baptism Application Form from the porch of the church (or found on the Parish Website);
    – Read carefully what is expected form the Parents and Godparents of a child for this Sacrament;
    – Contact Parish Priest to arrange the very first meeting of getting now each other and to make the individual decision about the process of the preparation;

    Prayer of the Month – June 2021 

    Prayer of the Month – Pope Francis Prayer Intentions June 2021 – The beauty of marriage

    Pope’s Intention for evangelization:

    Let us pray for young people who are preparing for marriage with the support of a Christian community: may they grow in love, with generosity, faithfulness and patience.

    Lord our God, you established marriage
    as one of your first gifts to the human family,
    and you sanctified it with your Son’s presence at the wedding feast in Cana.
    You consecrated this bond of one man and one woman
    as a Sacrament in your Church – a Sacrament that opens the door to a vocation
    meant for the good of the couple, their children, and the whole world.

    Lord, help us to recognize your plan for marriage as the gift it is,
    showing us the way upon which you call so many people to holiness,
    by living spousal love in family life with generosity, faithfulness, and patience.

    Look especially with mercy on young people preparing for marriage, Lord,
    and grant them the wisdom and courage to embrace your plan in full,
    helping them by formation in their families of origin, among their friends,
    and especially in the Church community.

    May all young people live their marriage in a way
    that truly reflects your unending love for the Church. Amen.

    Prayer by Fr. Andrij Hlabse, S.J.

    Pray for those of our Own Parish:

    Please pray for those who are ill especially: Caroline Bennett, Robert & Eileen Steward, Louie Muscat, Tony & Julie Duffy, Brian Girling, Shelia Langford; Catherine Morgan, Pam Brown Ward, for all the children suffering and their poor families with them Aidan Molloy, David Shields, Bob Guy, Ms Sini Chacko, Kathleen & Kevin Jones, Heidi Badnell, Rosemary Devonald, Dominic, Carol Langsford, Patricia Ward, Stan Whitnell, Patrick McCreesh, Eddie Coppani, Tony Denny, Betty Foster, Bobby, Eileen Stewart, Joan Smith, John Williams, Margaret Bager, Fred Vuksani, Tom & Lily, Greta Kemp, Magda K, Mary Wallis, Micheline Thompson, Pat Needham, Margaret Badger, Anne Sullivan, Josephine Butler.

    And all whose anniversaries occur at this time: 13th June 2021:  Diana Clark, David Best,Eileen Inkpen, Mary Hehir, Jo Wheeler, Shirley Parker, Dennis William Johnson, Carmen Muscat, Simon Paul Urwin, Mary Denny, Sheila Merrett, George Cowley, Bernard Donaghy, Bridget Nolan, Terry Kendal, William Lynch, Isabella Graham, Michael Collins, Anne McGowan, Wanda Gant, Suzanne Severs, Rosanna Schofield, Winifred Tripp, Catherine Henney, Johanna Davis, Leonard Hayles, Davina Cameron, Charles Cummins, Frank Hilton, Charles William Rolph, Patrick John Tyrrell, William Deary, Frances Barrett, Albert Brain, Jane Lattan, Gladys Whittle, Mary Young, May Flood, Miriam Keane, Ellen Gray, Janice Margaret Johnson, Archbishop John Henry King, William Smith, Eileen Orme, Herbert Diemer, Ann Mary Froggatt, Mary Patricia Tovey, Christine Ann Hogan (Ann), Bridget Hanvery, Florence Ellen Healey, Annie Evison, Albert Mensell, Elizabeth Mary Hawkins, Nora Parker, Lugrezia (Grace) Veronica Tynan, James Madigan, William Morgan, David Calder, Ellen Green, Percy Spicer, Hilda Clifton, Anne Woolfe, James Patrick Madigan, John Stephen Feeley, John Young (Frank), Ethel Penwell, Florence Casey, Alice Whiles, Mary Diver, Eileen Field, Mary Shute, Antoni Brown, Beatrice McIver, Hilda Lowe and Christina Perseltic Carter., ,Lizzie and Patrick McSharry ,Gemma Litchfield , Ivy Rouse , Stan Pickering and Jozef Michalczuk

    May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed through the Mercy of God rest in peace. Amen 

     Community Pray:

    House of Prayer Portsmouth have been praying for the city and feel that God is asking for the churches in the city to prayer walk their boundaries. We would like to invite you as a congregation to walk the boundary of your parish to pray God’s blessing and bring hope, healing and awakening to the area. The Holy Rosary is absolutely perfect for this initiative. You can join the Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/937798273059418/

     

    Sacred Heart

    History of Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

    Devotion to the Sacred Heart can be seen as early as the second century with St. Justin Martyr and in the 7th century with Pope Gregory the Great. Writers throughout these centuries emphasized the pierced side of Christ as the inexhaustible source from which all graces flow upon mankind and the blood and water as symbols of the sacraments of the Church. With the coming of St. Bernard of Clairvaux and St. Anselm in the 12th century, there was a sudden increase in direct reference to the love of the Sacred Heart for every person redeemed by His Passion and ...
    Read more here
    Pope John Paul II

    The Popes on Devotion to the Sacred Heart

    The feast of the Sacred Heart was approved for specified dioceses by Clement XIII in 1765, and extended to the whole Church by Pius IX in 1856. In 1889 Pope Leo XIII elevated it to the rank of first class, and through an encyclical letter in 1899 dedicated the whole Catholic world to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Devotion to the Sacred Heart was also an essential component of Pope John Paul II's hopes for the "new evangelization" called for by the Church. "For evangelization today," he said, "the Heart of Christ must be recognized as the heart of the Church: ...
    Read more here
    Sacred Heart of Jesus June

    Scriptural Basis for the Devotion

    Jesus, who is one with the Father (cf. John 10, 30), invites his disciples to live in close communion with him, to model their lives on him and on his teaching. He, in turn, reveals himself as "meek and humble of heart" (Matthew 11, 29). It can be said that, in a certain sense, devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a cultic form of the prophetic and evangelic gaze of all Christians on him who was pierced (cf. John 19, 37; Zac 12, 10), the gaze of all Christians on the side of Christ, transfixed by a lance, ...
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    Sacred Heart 2

    The Sacred Heart and Our Spiritual Life

    Devotion to the Sacred Heart is a wonderful historical expression of the Church's piety for Christ, her Spouse and Lord: it calls for a fundamental attitude of conversion and reparation, of love and gratitude, apostolic commitment and dedication to Christ and his saving work. Devotions to the Sacred Heart of Jesus are numerous. Some have been explicitly approved and frequently recommended by the Apostolic See. Among these, mention should be made of the following: Personal Consecration Personal consecration, described by Pius XI as "undoubtedly the principal devotional practice used in relation to the Sacred Heart" (Miserentissimus redemptor). Family Consecration Family consecration ...
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    Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque

    Twelve Promises of Jesus to Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque

    In the apparitions to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, Jesus gives these twelve promises for those who are devoted to His Sacred Heart ...
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    June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

    June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

    Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a very, very old practice originally arising out of devotion to the Sacred wounds of Christ and all that His sacrifice for us embodied. It is a beautiful practice with which you can get closer to Jesus in contemplation of the Passion and His most perfect sacrifice. In 1899, the human race was dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus through Pope Leo XIII’s decree in his encyclical Annum Sacrum. Pope Pius X extended this by instituting this dedication be renewed yearly. The Feast Day for the Sacred Heart of Jesus falls ...
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    Pastoral Letter from Bishop Philip 08-06-2021

    Pastoral Letter from Bishop Philip 08-06-2021

    Bishop Philip writes... 8th June 2021 This last Sunday, Corpus Christi, I published a Pastoral Letter to be read at all Masses across the Diocese. It’s an invitation to undertake the Year of the Eucharist. Click on the picture for the video recording. You can read it here. My dear ...
    Read More
    The Eucharist

    Blog Topic: The Eucharist is ‘the School of True Love for Us’

    pentecost

    Happy Birthday to Our Catholic Church – Pentecost

    World Communications Day 2021 is on May 16th

    World Communications Day 2021 is on May 16th

     

    Missio Red Boxes

    Thank You so much for all the people of good will and merciful hearts, who – even in this difficult time continue to support missionaries around the world through their red boxes support. In 2020 our Parish raised over £1400, which was absolutely amazing.

    THIS is a time to bring your red boxes to be emptied again. Please, bring them to the sacristy or pass to our Dear Denis, who is an ambassador of this deed of mercy in our Parish. Thank You so much for your generosity.

     

     

    OFFERTORY: Thank you for last Sunday’s Collection.

    Electronic offertory: If you have not managed to set up your electronic giving yet, please can you do so as soon as possible.
    The Parish Bank Account details are: Account Name (Lloyd’s Bank’): PRCDTR Our Lady of Lourdes’ & St Swithun Church Sort Code: 30-93-04; parish Account no: 01730453.

    Financial assistance: If you are able to increase your usual weekly offering (during this time of uncertainty) it will be a huge help to the parish. Even the slightest increase will be a help – THANK YOU!

    These weeks of lockdown are difficult for all of us, and we are particularly mindful of those whose jobs and lives are put on hold because of the pandemic. We want to be here for you during these difficult times. Even so, the Church in our Diocese of Portsmouth, its clergy, parishes and schools, is entirely dependent upon your generous charity. So that we can continue to provide the Liturgy of the Lord and our works, both centrally and from our parishes to the local community, I kindly ask all of the faithful who are able to do so, to continue their generous regular-giving to the Diocese and to their parish churches, which would otherwise lose vital income. You can donate via the button on the Parish website – or here 

    Standing Order and  other useful Information

     Download Standing Order Form (PDF)

    These are difficult times and if you are needing anything from me please message me on Facebook book, email or telephone the office. 02392828305

    Lloyds Bank : sort code 30-93-04 ; Account number 01730453 (Cheques mad payable to: PRCDTR Our Lady & St. Swithun)

    with Blessings Father Marcin Drabik

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    Download Newsletter PDF -13-06-2021

    WE’RE SO EXCITED TO SHARE THIS NEWS WITH YOU AND DON’T FORGET USE THE CONTACT FORMS ON OUR WEBSITE !

    Download this newsletter in printer-friendly PDF format to read later.

    Download this week’s Newsletter here: Newsletter: 13th June 2021 – 11th Sunday Ordinary Time Year B

    Calendars

      Daily Services Calendars for all times

      Saints Calendar to learn about this weeks Saints

      Daily Reading Calendar for the prayers this week

      View All of our Parish Events Here

    PARISH CONTACTS

    • PARISH PRIEST: Father Marcin Drabik tel: 02392 828305 email: mdrabik@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk 
    • Address: 105 Waverley Road, Southsea, PO5 2PL;
    • Safeguarding Minister: Teresa Rowe  tel: 023 92 818295;
    • Safeguarding Minister: Anne Worden  tel: 023 92 817586;
    • Parish Office Hours: Tues, Thurs, 8.00am –12.30pm. tel: 02392 828 305
      email: southseaparish@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

    HELP US SHARE THE GOOD NEWS!

    Let people know and come join in the conversation online!
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    @St_swithun

    “CAN-DO CHRISTIANS” A MESSAGE FROM FATHER MARCIN

    Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Dear Friends: I would like to share with You some things which are about our Parish and for our Parish.  I’m absolutely sure, that You have noticed how many things already happen in our Parish to help in our spiritual grow to love God more and more in His Word to us, in His Sacraments for us (which is His real presence among us). We also go out to meet those who still searching for God, or who were not so lucky to have personal contact with Jesus Christ.

     

    NEW SECTION ON OUR WEBSITE IF YOU JUST WANT TO SPEND SOME SPECIAL TIME WITH GOD

      Read More on our Renewal Pages here

    Updated Coronavirus Safety Guidelines

    Track and trace: code. Please use the QR Code (on the back of the church). Simply hold your camera app over the code and follow the instructions. This would be helpful should a local outbreak of the virus be detected.
    Ventilation:In order for us to comply with regulations and therefore be considered a ‘COVID secure environment’ the doors must be left open. As the temperature drops in the weeks ahead it will be important to wrap-up warm for Mass! Please do bear this in mind.

    WELCOME BACK! To those who wish to return to Mass at a time when our Church is not crowded, it is recommended to come to the VIGIL MASS of SUNDAY – on Saturdays at 6.00PM or on SUNDAYS at 8.30AM when there is plenty of room in the body of the Church. Members of the congregation are well spaced out. Now that we have to wear masks, this is an additional precaution which prevents others being infected; however, some people have medical exemption. Sanitising hands on entry lessens the possibility of the virus being spread by touching surfaces.

    There are signs on the floor indicating two metres so that we do not crowd up on one another.

    TEST & TRACE: We will also take a contact number for all attendees. These details will be destroyed after 21 days according to data management regulations. Anyone is free to decline and still attend Mass but we encourage you to take part.

    The Diocese has updated its Coronavirus guidance in the light of the latest Government instructions issued on 14th September 2020. There is a little more flexibility in some areas than previously, for example, in ministry to the sick and housebound, although great care must still be taken. The use of halls and the possibility of reinstating some group meetings are covered. There is limited scope for general socialising because the ‘Rule of 6’ has been imposed. Our churches are very COVID-safe, provided everyone is following the proper safety procedures. Our thanks as ever to clergy and parishioners who are working hard at this. One area, however, that remains a challenge is having sufficient volunteers (e.g. stewards and cleaners) to assist. If you are hale and hearty, please do offer to help– your assistance will enable many more people to return to Mass, thereby bringing them closer to Jesus Christ through His Church. Let us all pray for a speedy end to the pandemic.

    Please remember the advice is to wear a mask inside closed areas and churches.

    Click this link for any questions you might have found on our website.

    Newsletter: 6th June 2021 – The Feast of Corpus Christi Year B

    Corpus Christi

    My Dearest Parishioners, Visitors, Friends – Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ

    Happy Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ!!!  We too experience this miracle each time we go to Mass and receive the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. 

    To truly understand what Jesus did at the climax of his life—and what the Catholic Church does at every Mass—we must understand the importance of blood sacrifice to Judaism in Jesus’ time. Everything that Moses did at Mt. Sinai, and all that was done for a thousand years in the temple, was summed up by Christ’s ultimate blood sacrifice on the Cross, offered for the reconciliation of God and humanity. And this ultimate lifeblood of God, sprinkled by Christ the high priest once for all, is what the Mass re-presents and makes sacramentally present to us.

    All of today’s readings are set in the context of the Passover. The First Reading recalls the old covenant celebrated at Sinai following the first Passover and the Exodus. In sprinkling the blood of the covenant on the Israelites, Moses was symbolizing God’s desire in this covenant to make them His family, His “blood” relations. Quoting Moses’ words in today’s Gospel, Jesus elevates and transforms this covenant symbol to an extraordinary reality. In the new covenant made in the blood of Christ, we truly become one with His body and blood.

    The first covenant made with Moses and Israel at Sinai was but a shadow of this new and greater covenant made by Christ with all humankind in that upper room (see Hebrews 10:1).

    The Passover that Jesus celebrates with His Twelve Apostles “actualizes,” makes real what could only be symbolized by Moses’ sacrifice at the altar with twelve pillars. What Jesus does today is establish His Church as the new Israel and His Eucharist as the new worship of the living God.

    In offering Himself to God through the Spirit, Jesus delivered Israel from the transgressions of the first covenant. And, as we hear in today’s Epistle, by His blood He purified us and made us capable of true worship.

    God does not want dead works or animal sacrifices. He wants our own flesh and blood, our own lives, consecrated to Him, offered as a living sacrifice. This is the sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving that we sing of in today’s Psalm. This is the Eucharist.

    What we do in memory of Him is to pledge our lives to Him, to renew our promise to live by the words of His covenant and to be His servants. There is no other return we can offer to Him for the eternal inheritance He has won for us. So let us approach the altar, calling upon His name in thanksgiving, taking up the cup of salvation. (from Scott Hahn)

    Today is the greatest day for a Christian’s heart, because, after celebrating the institution of the Eucharist on the Holy Thursday, the Church now is trying to exalt this revered Sacrament, to make us adore it without limit. “Quantum potes, tantum aude…”, “dare to do your best”: this is the invitation St. Thomas Aquinas makes us in a wonderful hymn of praise to the Eucharist. And, in a most admirable way, this invitation sums up what our heart’s feelings should be before Christ’s true presence in the Eucharist. To reciprocate such a humble, hidden, and so impressive donation, whatever we can do will never be enough. The Almighty Creator of Heaven and Earth hides under the Sacramental species and offers himself to us as the food that feeds our souls. He is bread of angels and food of wayfarers. And it is bread of life we are being abundantly given, as the bread to avoid the weakness of those following him was miraculously multiplied to be distributed without any measure: “They ate and everyone had enough; and when they gathered up what was left, twelve baskets were filled with broken pieces” (Luke 9:17).

    In front of this overabundance of love our reaction can never be stingy. An attentive and deep gaze of faith to this Divine Sacrament, must necessarily give way to a grateful prayer and to a passionate heart. In his sermons, St. Josemaria used to repeat the words a certain venerable bishop addressed to the priests he had just ordained: “Treat him well for me, treat him well!”.

    A quick conscience examination will help us realizing what we are to do to treat the Sacramented Jesus more delicately: the cleanliness of our soul —it must always be in grace to receive him—, the correctness of what we wear —as a sign of love and reverence—, the frequency with which we come closer to receive him, the number of times we visit him in the Tabernacle… Our attentions with our Lord in the Eucharist should be countless. Let us fight to receive and treat Jesus Sacramented with the purity, humility and devotion of his Blessed Mother, with the spirit and the fervour of the saints.

    REFLECTION

    Introductory Prayer: Lord Jesus, today I renew my faith in your true presence in the Eucharist. I believe you come down from heaven to be present in the host at every Mass and remain with me in the Tabernacle. You are the source of my hope. I long to be more united to you through this gift of yourself.

    Petition: Lord, increase my appreciation and devotion to you in the Eucharist.

    1. The Power of Love: As Jesus prepared to accept the cross, he showed the depth of his true love for humanity by giving himself. He promised to be with us until the end of time, and it was no empty promise. Christ, true God and true man, transformed bread and wine into his Body and Blood and gave the apostles and their successors the power to make Christ present in the Eucharist. Jesus’ love wasn’t just a passing love. His love makes itself present every day in the Eucharist. Lord, help me to grasp and be grateful for the depth of love you showed to us by giving us your Body and Blood as food.

    2. It All Started with Yes: Sometimes it is easy to take words for granted. How many times do we hear the words “yes” and “no,” but take no notice? Imagine if God had decided to not become man and let us die in our sins instead. Imagine too if Mary had said “No”. The Eucharist begins with God’s “YES” to save mankind from his sin. Through his sacrifice, Jesus offers us the supreme gift of love: his own body and blood. But like any story of love, Jesus offers us his love and asks for our love in return. Our “yes” is what it takes to bring to completion God’s love in us. Yes, Lord, I truly believe that you are present in the Most Holy Sacrament of the Eucharist!

    3. The Heavenly Banquet Awaits Us: Christ says that he will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the day he drinks it anew in the Kingdom of Heaven. What a privilege it will be to participate in this banquet of heaven. The Eucharist and Mass are a foretaste of that noble banquet. Let us resolve to inebriate ourselves with Christ’s love given us through the Eucharist. “If only you knew the gift being offered to you” (Cf. John 4:10).

    Conversation with Christ: Lord Jesus Christ, you gave us the Eucharist as the memorial of your suffering and death. May our worship of this sacrament of your body and blood help us to experience the salvation you won for us and the peace of the Kingdom where you live forever and ever.

    Resolution: Today I will receive Christ in the Eucharist and make a profound act of faith in his presence. If possible, I will also participate in a Corpus Christi procession.

    with Blessings and prayerful best wishes, Father Marcin Drabik

    Service Times from Saturday June 5th 2021  until June 13th  2021 – All Services will also be streamlined on-line
  • Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/Stswithuns.org.uk/
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    Download this week's Newsletter here: Newsletter: 6th June 2021 – The Feast of Corpus Christi Year B
    DateLocationlinks to readings and Services
    Sunday 6th June 2021 The Feast of Corpus Christi
    		St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 06-06-2021
    Monday 7th June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 07-06-2021
    Tuesday 8th June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 08-06-2021
    Wednesday 9th June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 09-06-2021
    Thursday 10th June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 10-06-2021
    Friday 11th June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 11-06-2021
    Saturday 12th June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 12-06-2021
    Sunday 13th June 2021 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time B
    		St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 13-06-2021

     

     

     Read today’s Readiings here

    Commentary on Deuteronomy 8:2-3.14b-16a; 1 Corinthians 10:16-17; John 6:51-58

    Commentary on Deuteronomy 8:2-3.14b-16a; 1 Corinthians 10:16-17; John 6:51-58

    PERHAPS THE GREATEST GIFT that Jesus left behind to his fledgling Church, apart from the example of his own teaching, life and death, was the Eucharist. With justification, the Eucharist is often spoken of as the very centre of Christian living. There is a very real danger for Christian communities of collapsing or degenerating when deprived of the Eucharist for any length of time. No one can in effect remain a committed Christian without participation in the Eucharist. Every persecuted Church realises this and struggles to keep the Eucharist alive in its communities. We have seen that in countless examples over the centuries, including our own. We have seen how Catholics in China went to enormous lengths to celebrate the Eucharist in spite of appalling difficulties. In Ireland, people will point out lonely outcrops known as “Mass rocks” in remote parts of the country where persecuted Catholics secretly celebrated the ...
    Read more here
    Corpus Christi Church

    Dr. Scott Hahn – Gospel Reflections 06-06-2021

    Blood of the Covenant: Scott Hahn Reflects on Corpus Christi All of today’s readings are set in the context of the Passover. The First Reading recalls the old covenant celebrated at Sinai following the first Passover and the Exodus. In sprinkling the blood of the covenant on the Israelites, Moses was symbolizing God’s desire in this covenant to make them His family, His “blood” relations. Quoting Moses’ words in today’s Gospel, Jesus elevates and transforms this covenant symbol to an extraordinary reality. In the new covenant made in the blood of Christ, we truly become one with His body and blood. The first covenant made with Moses and Israel at Sinai was but a shadow of this new and greater covenant made by Christ with all humankind in that upper room (see Hebrews 10:1). The Passover that Jesus celebrates with His Twelve Apostles “actualizes,” makes real what could only be symbolized ...
    Read more here

    Thoughts on Today’s Gospel and Readings for the Week – 06-06-2021

    Background on the Gospel Reading Mark 14:12-16,22-26 Jesus shares his Last Supper with his disciples. Today, the second Sunday after Pentecost, we celebrate a second solemnity, which marks our return to Ordinary Time in the liturgical calendar. Today is the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. At one time, this day was called Corpus Christi, the Latin words for “the Body of Christ.” In the most recent revision of our liturgical rites, the name for this day is expanded to be a more complete reflection of our Eucharistic theology. In our reading for today, we read the account of the Last Supper found in the Gospel of Mark. It begins with the instructions that Jesus gave to his disciples to prepare their Passover celebration. It then goes on to give an account of the Last Supper. On this Sunday, however, our Lectionary reading omits the verses between ...
    Read more here

    Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 06-06-2021

    What is the Eucharist? A fun Catholic reflection for kids based on the readings for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, cycle B (Catholic Kids Media) A fun Catholic reflection for kids based on the readings for the Trinity Sunday, cycle B. Support this channel on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/catholickidsm...​ Or on Venmo: @catholickidsmedia Catholic Kids Media In Sunday’s Gospel, Mark 14:12-16,22-26 Jesus says  This is my body; this is my blood In the gospel today we hear Mark’s account of Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples as a celebration of the Jewish feast of Passover. Mark, however, omits many elements of the Passover meal. He describes only those elements that are essential to the Eucharist, the Mass. Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it and shared it amongst his disciples. With similar words he shared also the cup with his disciples. Jesus explains that this bread now shared ...
    Read more here

     

    Pray for our Children for making their First Confession and Holy Communion

    Jesus and Child PLEASE, let us pray this whole week for the children of our parish, who , on the the feast of Corpus Christi, for the first time in their young lives go to the Sacrament of Confession (Saturday 5th June), to ask the Merciful Jesus Christ for His forgiveness. Let us pray, that their souls will be purified as were after The Sacrament of Baptism. Let’s pray, that they will regularly renew or increase the sanctifying grace through this so ...
    Read more here

    This is what the Feast of Corpus Christi is all about

    Christ could have nourished us in any way he wanted to. Instead, he chooses to take up the good things of this earth – wheat, water, wine.

    A few summers ago, when I was serving as a deacon at St. Vincent Ferrer Church in Manhattan, one of the friars in the community was admitted to Rosary Hill, a home for patients dying of cancer run by the Hawthorne Dominican Sisters. Prior to his move, our brother had ...
    Read more here

    Blog Topic: The Eucharist is ‘the School of True Love for Us’

    The Eucharist My Dearest Brother and Sister in Christ, my Friend Last time, I tried to show You that the Holy Mass, The Eucharist is the revelation of the unfinished of God’s love towards us, and must be measured as a gift. Today, please let’s see that true love cannot be measured only by feelings. Feelings accompany love as its important element, but are not its essence. Feelings are ambivalent, unstable, variable, and blind. It often happens that those who love ...
    Read more here

    Hillsong United

    Hymn for Today: Remembrance – Hillsong Worship

    Oh Hillsong united kingdom, your Song Remembrance is so heart felt and soul searching it brought to me tears that I needed to be reminded of the body and the blood of Jesus Christ, I truly Thank you, your ministry in Song is such a blessing, I love each one of you, my heart sends each one of you hugs and much joy for your hours of prayer and hard work! God continue to bring you armfuls of His tender LOVE of strength and His Awesome Faith. Lyrics - Remembrance - Hillsong Worship VERSE 1 I take the bread of ...
    Read more here

     

     

     

    Diocese of Portsmouth - Year of the Eucharist begins

    Diocese of Portsmouth – Year of the Eucharist begins

    In our Diocese of Portsmouth, we will begin a Year of the Eucharist starting on the Feast of Corpus Christi, 6th June 2021. As you know, in these years 2020 to 2022, I am inviting everyone in the Diocese to undertake by God’s grace a period of intense, spiritual renewal. The purpose ultimately is to help us realise our diocesan ambition of Bringing People Closer to Jesus Christ through His Church. We are always totally dependent on God and His grace and on the gifts of the Holy Spirit He pours out upon us through the Holy Eucharist. In other words, we ...
    Read more here
    Philip Kosloski - When is the feast of Corpus Christi celebrated?

    Philip Kosloski – When is the feast of Corpus Christi celebrated?

    The feast of Corpus Christi, a holy day of obligation in many places, is celebrated either on the Thursday or Sunday following Trinity Sunday. In the Church’s calendar there are several holy days of obligation, on which the faithful are invited to attend Mass to celebrate a specific aspect of the Catholic faith. The feast of Corpus Christi (also known as the feast of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ), has been for many centuries a holy day of obligation. Initially this feast was celebrated on the Thursday after Trinity Sunday, in accord with the requests of Juliana of Liege, a ...
    Read more here
    Philip Kosloski - Prayer to the Virgin Mary before receiving Holy Communion

    Philip Kosloski – Prayer to the Virgin Mary before receiving Holy Communion

    Ask Mary to prepare your heart to receive Jesus, her Son, in the Holy Eucharist. Sometimes receiving Holy Communion can become habit, and we don’t think about the profound mystery we are about to encounter.One way to remind us of such a great mystery is to invite the Virgin Mary to prepare our hearts to receive her Son, Jesus Christ. Here is a short prayer from the Raccolta that asks the Virgin Mary to accompany us as we approach the altar. O most Blessed Virgin Mary, mother of gentleness and mercy, I, a miserable and unworthy sinner, fly to thy ...
    Read more here
    Pope Francis establishes ministry of catechist

    Pope Francis establishes ministry of catechist

    In a new Apostolic Letter Antiquum Ministerium, Pope Francis has established the lay ministry of Catechist in order to recognise “those lay men and women who feel called by virtue of their baptism to cooperate in the work of catechesis.” The new ministry has ancient origins, going back to the New Testament. The “history of evangelisation over the past two millennia,” writes Pope Francis, “clearly shows the effectiveness of the mission of catechists,” who have “devoted their lives to catechetical instruction so that the faith might be an effective support for the life of every human being,” even to the ...
    Read more here
    Bishop Philip - The Sacrament of Matrimony

    Bishop Philip – The Sacrament of Matrimony

    Bishop Philip writes: Our prayers and congratulations to the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, who last week married his fiancé Carrie Symonds in a private liturgy at Westminster Cathedral. Both are baptised Catholics and they have had their baby son, Wilfrid, baptised into the Church. We pray for them to the Lord who is now present in their family home through the Sacrament of Matrimony. We also pray for everyone in our Diocese who over these summer months will be getting married and for all our engaged couples. People have raised with me questions about this particular marriage and how it ...
    Read more here
    Colin MacIver - The Eucharist: Where We Begin and End

    Colin MacIver – The Eucharist: Where We Begin and End

    We were halfway through an eight-hour car ride when I decided tonight was the night I would propose. Aimee had fallen asleep in the passenger seat, and as the highway zipped by, I prayed silently and solidified my decision. Since early college, St. Thérèse of Lisieux had been my go-to intercessor and spiritual role model; that night, I consulted her yet again. You’re my wing-nun, help me out, I asked this 19th-century French Carmelite. Help me be confident, smooth, and … well … successful! The engagement ring, as it had been for weeks, was with me. I had made no elaborate plan with sky ...
    Read more here
    Fr. Mike Schmitz Answers –  NON-CATHOLICS RECEIVING THE EUCHARIST

    Fr. Mike Schmitz Answers –  NON-CATHOLICS RECEIVING THE EUCHARIST

    Q: My non-Catholic friend comes with me to Mass, but she insists on receiving the Eucharist. Is that okay? A: So, I have to encourage you for inviting your friend to Mass. That is exactly what we should be doing as Catholics in the first place. It is extremely important that we are quick to invite our friends and family to Church, and are committed to hospitality. That being said, it is very “not okay” that your friend is receiving Holy Communion. That isn’t anything against hospitality (I’ll get back to that), but is simply the fact of the matter ...
    Read more here

     

     

     

    Keep up with what’s Happening in our Parish over this coming Year

    Scroll through to see all the events happening from the 5th June 2021 till the 30th June 2021

    Or Go to our Parish Events Diary and search a specific date or event  here https://stswithuns.org.uk/events/

    THIS WEEK FOR ALL:  Through: https://www.facebook.com/Stswithuns.org.uk

    Facebook Profile – in English (St Swithuns RC Church Southsea): ‘A GLASS OF WINE’ with Fr Marcin – Q&A of The Catholic Faith on:

    TUESDAY at 8.00pm – SUBJECT: ‘Come, Holy Spirit, Come – A need and how to cultivate the gifts of the Holy Spirit in us’;
    THURSDAY at 8.00pm – SUBJECT: ‘Follow the path of holiness – we are called to accept the gift of humanity;

    Facebook Profile –in Polish (St Swithuns RC Kościół Southsea): ‘MORNING COFFEE WITH MYSTICS’ brewed by Fr Marcin on: 

    ‘MORNING COFFEE WITH MYSTICS’ brewed by Fr Marcin on: TUESDAY at 11.15am;

    Children Pray together via our Zoom Online Catholic School:

    Your children can join us for our Zoom online Catholic School  (PLEASE NOT: REGISTRATION IS NEED – see the form below)

    URGENT APPEAL - FOOD PARCELS FOR OUR HOMELESS NEEDED IN PORTSMOUTH

    URGENT APPEAL – FOOD PARCELS FOR OUR HOMELESS NEEDED IN PORTSMOUTH

    Dear Friends, as You know – we try our best to help homeless (and the poor) in many ways. One of them, very important and popular is providing the lunch on Sundays, with an incredible generosity and sacrifice from St Vincent de Paul’s members of our Parish. We need your help in this difficult times, to make by yourself 45 packed lunches or to provide us with the products or donation, so we can make it by ourselves. Each packed lunch includes: - 2 sandwiches; - At least 1 fruit; - Something to drink (a juice, water) - Something sweet ...
    Read more here
    Ascent Group - Events 2021 Timetable

    Ascent Group – Events 2021 Timetable

    Dear Friends May you be blessed with a happy and hopeful New Year. Although we are still in the midst of illness and restrictions, there are signs of hope as vaccines begin to be rolled out. We thank God for the answers to prayers made right at the beginning of the pandemic, that vaccines would be developed quickly; and we continue to pray for those suffering and for an end to the global crisis. ADoRE monthly sessions will continue online for the foreseable future, and we are encouraged by many positive reactions already to our 2021 programme plans - see below ...
    Read more here
    going into hospital

    GOING INTO HOSPITAL?

    GOING INTO HOSPITAL? Due to strict data protection rules it is essential on entering hospital to indicate your details or those of your relative to be passed on to the Catholic Chaplain. Also state that you or your relative would like the Catholic Chaplain to visit you. Chaplains visit the wards during the week and provide an on-call service in case of emergency ...
    Read more here

    We would like to thank very, very much our Dear Parishioner – Kamila, for making for our Parish PENTECOST – BIRTHDAY CAKES – they were delicious. Thank You Kamila also for giving the to us as your gift. If anyone is searching for a good, ambitious cakes for all kind of occasions, do not hesitate to contact Kamila (tel. 07707 458921) Many other cakes done by Kamila you can find on her Facebook Profile – ‘Kamila Bo’.

     

    CLICK HERE – NEW SECTION: LINK TO THE LATEST PORTSMOUTH DIOCESE E_NEWSLETTER

    UPDATE ON FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PROGRAMME FOR THIS NEW YEAR 2021

    tbc

    UPDATE ON BAPTISM REQUESTS 

    • If you need a copy of Baptism certificate please contact the Parish Office.
    • If you want to get someone baptised then feel free to make an appointment with father Marcin.

    For those who would like to arrange a Baptism for their child:

    – Please collect a Baptism Application Form from the porch of the church (or found on the Parish Website);
    – Read carefully what is expected form the Parents and Godparents of a child for this Sacrament;
    – Contact Parish Priest to arrange the very first meeting of getting now each other and to make the individual decision about the process of the preparation;

    Prayer of the Month – June 2021 

    Prayer of the Month – Pope Francis Prayer Intentions June 2021 – The beauty of marriage

    Pope’s Intention for evangelization:

    Let us pray for young people who are preparing for marriage with the support of a Christian community: may they grow in love, with generosity, faithfulness and patience.

    Lord our God, you established marriage
    as one of your first gifts to the human family,
    and you sanctified it with your Son’s presence at the wedding feast in Cana.
    You consecrated this bond of one man and one woman
    as a Sacrament in your Church – a Sacrament that opens the door to a vocation
    meant for the good of the couple, their children, and the whole world.

    Lord, help us to recognize your plan for marriage as the gift it is,
    showing us the way upon which you call so many people to holiness,
    by living spousal love in family life with generosity, faithfulness, and patience.

    Look especially with mercy on young people preparing for marriage, Lord,
    and grant them the wisdom and courage to embrace your plan in full,
    helping them by formation in their families of origin, among their friends,
    and especially in the Church community.

    May all young people live their marriage in a way
    that truly reflects your unending love for the Church. Amen.

    Prayer by Fr. Andrij Hlabse, S.J.

    Pray for those of our Own Parish:

    Please pray for those who are ill especially: Caroline Bennett, Robert & Eileen Steward, Louie Muscat, Tony & Julie Duffy, Brian Girling, Shelia Langford; Catherine Morgan, Pam Brown Ward, for all the children suffering and their poor families with them Aidan Molloy, David Shields, Bob Guy, Ms Sini Chacko, Kathleen & Kevin Jones, Heidi Badnell, Rosemary Devonald, Dominic, Carol Langsford, Patricia Ward, Stan Whitnell, Patrick McCreesh, Eddie Coppani, Tony Denny, Betty Foster, Bobby, Eileen Stewart, Joan Smith, John Williams, Margaret Bager, Fred Vuksani, Tom & Lily, Greta Kemp, Magda K, Mary Wallis, Micheline Thompson, Pat Needham, Margaret Badger, Anne Sullivan, Josephine Butler.

    And all whose anniversaries occur at this time: 6th June 2021:  Diana Clark, David Best,Eileen Inkpen, Mary Hehir, Jo Wheeler, Shirley Parker, Dennis William Johnson, Carmen Muscat, Simon Paul Urwin, Mary Denny, Sheila Merrett, George Cowley, Bernard Donaghy, Bridget Nolan, Terry Kendal, William Lynch, Isabella Graham, Michael Collins, Anne McGowan, Wanda Gant, Suzanne Severs, Rosanna Schofield, Winifred Tripp, Catherine Henney, Johanna Davis, Leonard Hayles, Davina Cameron, Charles Cummins, Frank Hilton, Charles William Rolph, Patrick John Tyrrell, William Deary, Frances Barrett, Albert Brain, Jane Lattan, Gladys Whittle, Mary Young, May Flood, Miriam Keane, Ellen Gray, Janice Margaret Johnson, Archbishop John Henry King, William Smith, Eileen Orme, Herbert Diemer, Ann Mary Froggatt, Mary Patricia Tovey, Christine Ann Hogan (Ann), Bridget Hanvery, Florence Ellen Healey, Annie Evison, Albert Mensell, Elizabeth Mary Hawkins, Nora Parker, Lugrezia (Grace) Veronica Tynan, James Madigan, William Morgan, David Calder, Ellen Green, Percy Spicer, Hilda Clifton, Anne Woolfe, James Patrick Madigan, John Stephen Feeley, John Young (Frank), Ethel Penwell, Florence Casey, Alice Whiles, Mary Diver, Eileen Field, Mary Shute, Antoni Brown, Beatrice McIver, Hilda Lowe and Christina Perseltic Carter., ,Lizzie and Patrick McSharry ,Gemma Litchfield , Ivy Rouse , Stan Pickering and Jozef Michalczuk

    May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed through the Mercy of God rest in peace. Amen 

     Community Pray:

    House of Prayer Portsmouth have been praying for the city and feel that God is asking for the churches in the city to prayer walk their boundaries. We would like to invite you as a congregation to walk the boundary of your parish to pray God’s blessing and bring hope, healing and awakening to the area. The Holy Rosary is absolutely perfect for this initiative. You can join the Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/937798273059418/

     

    Sacred Heart

    History of Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

    Devotion to the Sacred Heart can be seen as early as the second century with St. Justin Martyr and in the 7th century with Pope Gregory the Great. Writers throughout these centuries emphasized the pierced side of Christ as the inexhaustible source from which all graces flow upon mankind and the blood and water as symbols of the sacraments of the Church. With the coming of St. Bernard of Clairvaux and St. Anselm in the 12th century, there was a sudden increase in direct reference to the love of the Sacred Heart for every person redeemed by His Passion and ...
    Read more here
    Pope John Paul II

    The Popes on Devotion to the Sacred Heart

    The feast of the Sacred Heart was approved for specified dioceses by Clement XIII in 1765, and extended to the whole Church by Pius IX in 1856. In 1889 Pope Leo XIII elevated it to the rank of first class, and through an encyclical letter in 1899 dedicated the whole Catholic world to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Devotion to the Sacred Heart was also an essential component of Pope John Paul II's hopes for the "new evangelization" called for by the Church. "For evangelization today," he said, "the Heart of Christ must be recognized as the heart of the Church: ...
    Read more here
    Sacred Heart of Jesus June

    Scriptural Basis for the Devotion

    Jesus, who is one with the Father (cf. John 10, 30), invites his disciples to live in close communion with him, to model their lives on him and on his teaching. He, in turn, reveals himself as "meek and humble of heart" (Matthew 11, 29). It can be said that, in a certain sense, devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a cultic form of the prophetic and evangelic gaze of all Christians on him who was pierced (cf. John 19, 37; Zac 12, 10), the gaze of all Christians on the side of Christ, transfixed by a lance, ...
    Read more here
    Sacred Heart 2

    The Sacred Heart and Our Spiritual Life

    Devotion to the Sacred Heart is a wonderful historical expression of the Church's piety for Christ, her Spouse and Lord: it calls for a fundamental attitude of conversion and reparation, of love and gratitude, apostolic commitment and dedication to Christ and his saving work. Devotions to the Sacred Heart of Jesus are numerous. Some have been explicitly approved and frequently recommended by the Apostolic See. Among these, mention should be made of the following: Personal Consecration Personal consecration, described by Pius XI as "undoubtedly the principal devotional practice used in relation to the Sacred Heart" (Miserentissimus redemptor). Family Consecration Family consecration ...
    Read more here
    Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque

    Twelve Promises of Jesus to Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque

    In the apparitions to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, Jesus gives these twelve promises for those who are devoted to His Sacred Heart ...
    Read more here
    June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

    June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

    Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a very, very old practice originally arising out of devotion to the Sacred wounds of Christ and all that His sacrifice for us embodied. It is a beautiful practice with which you can get closer to Jesus in contemplation of the Passion and His most perfect sacrifice. In 1899, the human race was dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus through Pope Leo XIII’s decree in his encyclical Annum Sacrum. Pope Pius X extended this by instituting this dedication be renewed yearly. The Feast Day for the Sacred Heart of Jesus falls ...
    Read more here

    Pastoral Letter from Bishop Philip 08-06-2021

    Pastoral Letter from Bishop Philip 08-06-2021

    Bishop Philip writes... 8th June 2021 This last Sunday, Corpus Christi, I published a Pastoral Letter to be read at all Masses across the Diocese. It’s an invitation to undertake the Year of the Eucharist. Click on the picture for the video recording. You can read it here. My dear ...
    Read More
    The Eucharist

    Blog Topic: The Eucharist is ‘the School of True Love for Us’

    pentecost

    Happy Birthday to Our Catholic Church – Pentecost

    World Communications Day 2021 is on May 16th

    World Communications Day 2021 is on May 16th

     

    Missio Red Boxes

    Thank You so much for all the people of good will and merciful hearts, who – even in this difficult time continue to support missionaries around the world through their red boxes support. In 2020 our Parish raised over £1400, which was absolutely amazing.

    THIS is a time to bring your red boxes to be emptied again. Please, bring them to the sacristy or pass to our Dear Denis, who is an ambassador of this deed of mercy in our Parish. Thank You so much for your generosity.

     

     

    OFFERTORY: Thank you for last Sunday’s Collection.

    Electronic offertory: If you have not managed to set up your electronic giving yet, please can you do so as soon as possible.
    The Parish Bank Account details are: Account Name (Lloyd’s Bank’): PRCDTR Our Lady of Lourdes’ & St Swithun Church Sort Code: 30-93-04; parish Account no: 01730453.

    Financial assistance: If you are able to increase your usual weekly offering (during this time of uncertainty) it will be a huge help to the parish. Even the slightest increase will be a help – THANK YOU!

    These weeks of lockdown are difficult for all of us, and we are particularly mindful of those whose jobs and lives are put on hold because of the pandemic. We want to be here for you during these difficult times. Even so, the Church in our Diocese of Portsmouth, its clergy, parishes and schools, is entirely dependent upon your generous charity. So that we can continue to provide the Liturgy of the Lord and our works, both centrally and from our parishes to the local community, I kindly ask all of the faithful who are able to do so, to continue their generous regular-giving to the Diocese and to their parish churches, which would otherwise lose vital income. You can donate via the button on the Parish website – or here 

    Standing Order and  other useful Information

     Download Standing Order Form (PDF)

    These are difficult times and if you are needing anything from me please message me on Facebook book, email or telephone the office. 02392828305

    Lloyds Bank : sort code 30-93-04 ; Account number 01730453 (Cheques mad payable to: PRCDTR Our Lady & St. Swithun)

    with Blessings Father Marcin Drabik

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    Download Newsletter PDF -06-06-2021

    WE’RE SO EXCITED TO SHARE THIS NEWS WITH YOU AND DON’T FORGET USE THE CONTACT FORMS ON OUR WEBSITE !

    Download this newsletter in printer-friendly PDF format to read later.

    Download this week’s Newsletter here: Newsletter: 6th June 2021 – The Feast of Corpus Christi Year B

    Calendars

      Daily Services Calendars for all times

      Saints Calendar to learn about this weeks Saints

      Daily Reading Calendar for the prayers this week

      View All of our Parish Events Here

    PARISH CONTACTS

    • PARISH PRIEST: Father Marcin Drabik tel: 02392 828305 email: mdrabik@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk 
    • Address: 105 Waverley Road, Southsea, PO5 2PL;
    • Safeguarding Minister: Teresa Rowe  tel: 023 92 818295;
    • Safeguarding Minister: Anne Worden  tel: 023 92 817586;
    • Parish Office Hours: Tues, Thurs, 8.00am –12.30pm. tel: 02392 828 305
      email: southseaparish@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

    HELP US SHARE THE GOOD NEWS!

    Let people know and come join in the conversation online!
    LIKE/SHARE our Facebook Page: St Swithuns Page
    FOLLOW us on Twitter: @FrMarcinD
    @St_swithun

    “CAN-DO CHRISTIANS” A MESSAGE FROM FATHER MARCIN

    Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Dear Friends: I would like to share with You some things which are about our Parish and for our Parish.  I’m absolutely sure, that You have noticed how many things already happen in our Parish to help in our spiritual grow to love God more and more in His Word to us, in His Sacraments for us (which is His real presence among us). We also go out to meet those who still searching for God, or who were not so lucky to have personal contact with Jesus Christ.

     

    NEW SECTION ON OUR WEBSITE IF YOU JUST WANT TO SPEND SOME SPECIAL TIME WITH GOD

      Read More on our Renewal Pages here

    Updated Coronavirus Safety Guidelines

    Track and trace: code. Please use the QR Code (on the back of the church). Simply hold your camera app over the code and follow the instructions. This would be helpful should a local outbreak of the virus be detected.
    Ventilation:In order for us to comply with regulations and therefore be considered a ‘COVID secure environment’ the doors must be left open. As the temperature drops in the weeks ahead it will be important to wrap-up warm for Mass! Please do bear this in mind.

    WELCOME BACK! To those who wish to return to Mass at a time when our Church is not crowded, it is recommended to come to the VIGIL MASS of SUNDAY – on Saturdays at 6.00PM or on SUNDAYS at 8.30AM when there is plenty of room in the body of the Church. Members of the congregation are well spaced out. Now that we have to wear masks, this is an additional precaution which prevents others being infected; however, some people have medical exemption. Sanitising hands on entry lessens the possibility of the virus being spread by touching surfaces.

    There are signs on the floor indicating two metres so that we do not crowd up on one another.

    TEST & TRACE: We will also take a contact number for all attendees. These details will be destroyed after 21 days according to data management regulations. Anyone is free to decline and still attend Mass but we encourage you to take part.

    The Diocese has updated its Coronavirus guidance in the light of the latest Government instructions issued on 14th September 2020. There is a little more flexibility in some areas than previously, for example, in ministry to the sick and housebound, although great care must still be taken. The use of halls and the possibility of reinstating some group meetings are covered. There is limited scope for general socialising because the ‘Rule of 6’ has been imposed. Our churches are very COVID-safe, provided everyone is following the proper safety procedures. Our thanks as ever to clergy and parishioners who are working hard at this. One area, however, that remains a challenge is having sufficient volunteers (e.g. stewards and cleaners) to assist. If you are hale and hearty, please do offer to help– your assistance will enable many more people to return to Mass, thereby bringing them closer to Jesus Christ through His Church. Let us all pray for a speedy end to the pandemic.

    Please remember the advice is to wear a mask inside closed areas and churches.

    Click this link for any questions you might have found on our website.

    Newsletter: 30th May 2021 – The Most Holy Trinity Year B

    Holy Trinity

    My Dearest Parishioners, Visitors, Friends – Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ

    Today, our liturgy invites us to worship the Holy Trinity, our God, who is Father, Son and Holy Spirit. One only God in three Persons, in whose name we have been baptized. Through the grace of the Baptism we are called down here to participate in the life of the Holy Trinity, in the darkness of faith, and, later on, after death, in eternity. Through the Sacrament of Baptism we are made to share the divine life, getting to be sons of God Father, brothers of Christ and the temple of the Holy Spirit. With the Baptism our Christian life has begun by receiving the vocation of sanctity. Baptism makes us people belong to Him, He who excels as the Holy one, the “three times Holy” (cf. Is 6:3).

    The gift of sanctity we have been granted through the Baptism requires faithfulness for a task of evangelic conversion, which must always guide the life of God’s children: “This is the will of God, your holiness: that you refrain from immorality” (1Thess 4:3). This is a compromise affecting all those that have been baptized. “All the faithful of Christ of whatever rank or status are called to the fullness of the Christian life and to the perfection of charity” (Vatican II Council, Lumen gentium, 40).

    If our Baptism was the true entrance to God’s sanctity, we could not satisfy ourselves with a mediocre, routine and superficial Christian life. We are called to perfection in our love, inasmuch the Baptism has introduced us in the life and intimacy of God’s love.

    With deep gratitude for the benevolent design of our God, who has called us to participate in his live of love, let us today and always worship and praise him. “Blessed be God the Father and his Only-begotten Son and the Holy Spirit: for he has shown that he loves us” (Entrance Antiphon to the Mass).

    REFLECTION

    Introductory Prayer: Lord Jesus, I believe in you. I believe you have called me to the faith and to share that faith. I trust that you will fill me with your spirit of courage and truth, so that I might faithfully assimilate and transmit the faith. I love you. I want to love you more with my prayer and with my life, and so grow in the unity of the love you share with your Father and the Holy Spirit.

    Petition: Lord Jesus, help me to understand better and adore this great mystery of the Holy Trinity.

    1. Standing Between Heaven and Earth: Jesus Christ stands on the mountain of the Ascension, drawing all creation back to his Heavenly Father. He stands between heaven and earth as our God, our redeemer, our best friend, and as one who will walk with us every step of the way. Together with the disciples, let us adore him. Lord, we worship you, we thank you, we adore you. We thank you for your great goodness, burning love and unfathomable mercy. Heaven and earth are filled with your glory.

    2. Go Therefore and Make Disciples of All Nations: What does Jesus do with his power over heaven and earth? He uses it to unite sinful men with the all-holy God. How almighty his power must be to transform sinners into children of God and heirs of heaven. And how does Jesus bring about this transformation? He empowers his apostles to teach his truth and transmit a participation in his divine life. Lord Jesus, thank you for the light of truth that dispels the darkness of our minds. Thank you for the life of grace bestowed upon us in baptism. And thank you, Lord, for the bishops and priests who bring us — through your divine power — God’s own truth and a share in the life of the most blessed Trinity. Thank you for St. Peter and all his successors who keep us united in one, holy and universal Church as we journey toward the heavenly kingdom.

    3. Baptizing Them in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit: Without water, we would die of thirst. Without the Redemption, we would die in our sins, forever excluded from our destiny — union with God in the eternal happiness of heaven. How fittingly then, Jesus uses water to give us the fruits of his glorious Redemption. Not water alone, but water blessed in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Let us bow down in adoration before the infinite power of Our Lord. Through the ministry of his priests, Jesus raises the dead to the supernatural life of grace. Thank you, Lord, for the awesome gift of baptism and for adopting me as your child.

    Conversation with Christ: Dear Heavenly Father, you are now my own Father. I am your beloved child in Christ. Holy Spirit of God, gift of the Father and the Son, make your home in my heart. Direct my every thought, word and deed to glorify the most Holy Trinity.

    Resolution: I will often repeat with the holy children of Fatima: “O Most Blessed Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, I adore thee profoundly. I offer Thee the most Precious Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of thy dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, present in all the tabernacles of the world.”

    with Blessings and prayerful best wishes, Father Marcin Drabik

     

    Service Times from Saturday May 30th 2021  until April 6th  2021 – All Services will also be streamlined on-line
  • Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/Stswithuns.org.uk/
    		•
    Download this week's Newsletter here: :  Newsletter: 30th May 2021 – The Most Holy Trinity Year B
    DateLocationlinks to readings and Services
    Sunday 30th May 2021 The Most Holy Trinity B
    		St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 30-05-2021
    Monday 31st May 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 31-05-2021
    Tuesday 1st June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 01-06-2021
    Wednesday 2nd June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 02-06-2021
    Thursday 3rd June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 03-06-2021
    Friday 4th June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 04-06-2021
    Saturday 5th June 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 05-06-2021
    Sunday 6th June 2021 The Feast of Corpus Christi
    		St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 06-06-2021

     

     

     Read today’s Readiings here

    Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 30-05-2021

    What is the Trinity? A fun Catholic reflection for kids based on the readings for The Solemnity of the Holy Trinity, cycle B. (Catholic Kids Media) A fun Catholic reflection for kids based on the readings for the Trinity Sunday, cycle B. Support this channel on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/catholickidsm...​ Or on Venmo: @catholickidsmedia Catholic Kids Media In Sunday’s Gospel, Matthew 28:16-20 Jesus says "Go and make disciples of all nations" In Sunday’s Gospel, Matthew 28:16-20, Jesus asks his disciples to spread his word to all nations – to teach them to follow his commandments. He asks his disciples to baptise people in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He is speaking to us also, to encourage us to spread his word through our words and actions. On Sunday, we celebrate the mystery of the Holy Trinity, God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We know God as three ...
    Read more here

    Thoughts on Today’s Gospel and Readings for the Week – 30-05-2021

    On Trinity Sunday we contemplate the mystery of God as a play of persons. The Father gives rise to the Son while the Father and Son give rise to the Holy Spirit. God's unity is never compromised because the three are consubstantial, one in being. To begin to consider this mystery we must consider that love is what God is. Background on the Matthew 28:16-20 Jesus sends his disciples to make disciples of all nations. This week we return to the liturgical season of Ordinary Time. This Sunday and next Sunday, however, are designated as solemnities, special days that call our attention to the central mysteries of our faith. Today, on the first Sunday after Pentecost, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity. This feast invites us to consider what we believe about God, who has revealed himself to us in the Trinity, one God in three Persons.The ...
    Read more here
    Holy Trinity

    Dr. Scott Hahn – Gospel Reflections 30-05-2021

    Family of Love: Scott Hahn Reflects on the Solemnity of the Holy Trinity Last Sunday, we celebrated the sending of the Spirit, which sealed God’s new covenant and made a new creation. In this new creation, we live in the family of God, who has revealed himself as a Trinity of love. We share in His divine nature through His Body and Blood (see 2 Peter 1:4). This is the meaning of the three feasts that cap the Easter season— Pentecost, Trinity Sunday, and Corpus Christi. These feasts should be intimate reminders of how deeply God loves us, how He chose us, from before the foundation of the world, to be His children (see Ephesians 1:4–5). Today’s readings illuminate how all God’s words and works were meant to prepare for the revelation of the Trinity and God’s blessing in Jesus Christ—the blessing we inherited in Baptism, and renew in each Eucharist. By ...
    Read more here
    Commentaries on Deuteronomy 4:32-34,39-40, Romans 8:14-17, Matthew 28:16-20

    Commentaries on Deuteronomy 4:32-34,39-40, Romans 8:14-17, Matthew 28:16-20

    TODAY’S FEAST is one which many preachers would prefer not to have to talk about. What can one say that is meaningful about such an abstract concept as the Holy Trinity? In one sense, of course, they are right. It was the great St Thomas Aquinas who said that it was much easier to say what God was not than what he is. In other words, every positive statement made about God has to be immediately denied. If we say God is “good”, it is obviously true but our concept of “goodness”, however exalted, is so limited that God’s “goodness” cannot remotely correspond to our limited concept of it. And so of every other attribute applied to God. When it comes, then, to speaking of the meaning and inner relationship of three “Persons” in one God we are floundering in territory where ordinary human language is totally inadequate to express ...
    Read more here

     

    12 Things to Know and Share About the Holy Trinity

    The Holy Trinity is the central mystery of the Christian Faith. Here are 12 things to know and share... The Church teaches that the Holy Trinity is the central mystery of the Christian Faith. But how much do you know about this mystery? What is its history? What does it mean? And how can it be proved? Here are 12 things to know and share... 1. Where does the word “Trinity” come from? It comes from the Latin word ...
    Read more here

    Blog Topic: “The Third Mystery of Faith” – The Trinity and The Father

    God Our Father My Dearest Brothers and Sisters, my Friends. Today we continue to look at the Truths of our Faith - we consider the THIRD MYSTERY of FAITH: One God in Three Persons: God our Father In many religions of the world, God has been called the Father. Man transferred the concept of father to God based on an analogy taken from his own life. He did it for two reasons. First, because God is the giver of life and the ...
    Read more here

    Blog Topic: “Mystery of the Holy Trinity”

    Holy Trinity My dear Brothers and sisters in Christ Today it is a time to look at the Mystery of the Holy Spirit The Father loves the Son, the Son loves the Father, and their mutual love is the Third Person of the Holy Trinity - The Holy Spirit. Love is always creative. The Holy Spirit is the Father's love for the Son and the love of the Son for the Father. I will use two images again here to show ...
    Read more here

    Hymn for Today: Lyrics - This I Believe The Creed - Hillsong Worship

    Hymn for Today: Lyrics – This I Believe The Creed – Hillsong Worship

    Behind the Song: - This I Believe The Creed Lyrics Hillsong Worship Words are powerful. They have the potential to bring us together and the potential to tear us apart. Since the beginning of time, words have carried an incredible amount
of weight. In an address to the Canadian Parliament, President John. F. Kennedy declared, “What unites us is far greater than what divides us”. He sought to bring together two countries in agreement; focusing not on their differences, but on that which might bring them together. How much more is this declaration true for those who believe in the name of Jesus? ...
    Read more here

     

     

     

    Diocese of Portsmouth - Year of the Eucharist begins

    Diocese of Portsmouth – Year of the Eucharist begins

    In our Diocese of Portsmouth, we will begin a Year of the Eucharist starting on the Feast of Corpus Christi, 6th June 2021. As you know, in these years 2020 to 2022, I am inviting everyone in the Diocese to undertake by God’s grace a period of intense, spiritual renewal. The purpose ultimately is to help us realise our diocesan ambition of Bringing People Closer to Jesus Christ through His Church. We are always totally dependent on God and His grace and on the gifts of the Holy Spirit He pours out upon us through the Holy Eucharist. In other words, we ...
    Read more here

    Father Mike Schmitz – Lucifer, the Trinity, and Leisurely Sundays

    Fr. Mike Schmitz tackles several tough questions from his audience, like “Who became the new light-bearer after Lucifer fell?” and “How do we make Sunday a time of rest amidst our busy schedules?” If you ever wondered about these things, Fr. Mike may have the answers you’ve been looking for. If you have your own question for Fr. Mike, write #askfrmike in the comments section below, followed by your question. Father Mike Schmitz is a priest for the Diocese of Duluth, MN. He currently runs the Newman Center at the University of Minnesota-Duluth and is also the Director of Youth and Young ...
    Read more here
    The Perpetual Mystery of the Trinity

    The Perpetual Mystery of the Trinity

    The Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It rolls off the tongue so naturally that we hardly give it a second thought. But as common as it may be for us to make the Sign of the Cross, the tradition only hints at the mystery—perhaps the greatest of mysteries. If we look at the Bible as a love story between God and humanity, the way God reveals himself to us through salvation history is more profound than any classic novel, blockbuster movie, Broadway play or epic poem. It is in so many ways the love story from which all others come. The Old Testament is ...
    Read more here
    The Trinity: Peering into Jesus’ Relationship in God

    The Trinity: Peering into Jesus’ Relationship in God

    Because of Jesus’ sharing of his intimate life of prayer, we know that God is Trinity. Hinted at under various guises in the Old Testament, the Trinity is spoken of in a direct way in both the Gospels and the New Testament epistles. The Church later articulated what we know about it in clear and precise terms. The Trinity, a communion of divine Persons in utter unity, unveils an eternal foundation to what we mean by saying “God is love.” Nevertheless, the Trinity cannot be fully grasped, because God is mystery, far above human comprehension. The Relationship of the Father ...
    Read more here
    Webinar June 2nd - Renewing the Church with Father Mike Schmitz

    Webinar June 2nd – Renewing the Church with Father Mike Schmitz

    Join the Divine Renovation Team on Wednesday 2nd June at 5pm British Summer Time for a Webinar on the Holy Spirit’s Role in Renewing the Church with Father Mike Schmitz There is a lot of uncertainty swirling around what to expect of the post-pandemic Church. There is one certainty to give us hope and confidence and that is the role of the Holy Spirit in the renewal of the Church. From the moment Jesus breathed the Holy Spirit upon the apostles to this exact moment in time, the Spirit desires renewal, and that renewal starts in our own hearts first. Join Matt Regitz and ...
    Read more here

     

     

     

     

    Keep up with what’s Happening in our Parish over this coming Year

    Scroll through to see all the events happening from the 30th May 2021 till the 30th June 2021

    Or Go to our Parish Events Diary and search a specific date or event  here https://stswithuns.org.uk/events/

    THIS WEEK FOR ALL:  Through: https://www.facebook.com/Stswithuns.org.uk

    Facebook Profile – in English (St Swithuns RC Church Southsea): ‘A GLASS OF WINE’ with Fr Marcin – Q&A of The Catholic Faith on:

    TUESDAY at 8.00pm – SUBJECT: ‘Come, Holy Spirit, Come – A need and how to cultivate the gifts of the Holy Spirit in us’;
    THURSDAY at 8.00pm – SUBJECT: ‘Follow the path of holiness – we are called to accept the gift of humanity;

    Facebook Profile –in Polish (St Swithuns RC Kościół Southsea): ‘MORNING COFFEE WITH MYSTICS’ brewed by Fr Marcin on: 

    ‘MORNING COFFEE WITH MYSTICS’ brewed by Fr Marcin on: TUESDAY at 11.15am;

    Children Pray together via our Zoom Online Catholic School:

    Your children can join us for our Zoom online Catholic School  (PLEASE NOT: REGISTRATION IS NEED – see the form below)

    URGENT APPEAL - FOOD PARCELS FOR OUR HOMELESS NEEDED IN PORTSMOUTH

    URGENT APPEAL – FOOD PARCELS FOR OUR HOMELESS NEEDED IN PORTSMOUTH

    Dear Friends, as You know – we try our best to help homeless (and the poor) in many ways. One of them, very important and popular is providing the lunch on Sundays, with an incredible generosity and sacrifice from St Vincent de Paul’s members of our Parish. We need your help in this difficult times, to make by yourself 45 packed lunches or to provide us with the products or donation, so we can make it by ourselves. Each packed lunch includes: - 2 sandwiches; - At least 1 fruit; - Something to drink (a juice, water) - Something sweet ...
    Read more here
    Ascent Group - Events 2021 Timetable

    Ascent Group – Events 2021 Timetable

    Dear Friends May you be blessed with a happy and hopeful New Year. Although we are still in the midst of illness and restrictions, there are signs of hope as vaccines begin to be rolled out. We thank God for the answers to prayers made right at the beginning of the pandemic, that vaccines would be developed quickly; and we continue to pray for those suffering and for an end to the global crisis. ADoRE monthly sessions will continue online for the foreseable future, and we are encouraged by many positive reactions already to our 2021 programme plans - see below ...
    Read more here
    going into hospital

    GOING INTO HOSPITAL?

    GOING INTO HOSPITAL? Due to strict data protection rules it is essential on entering hospital to indicate your details or those of your relative to be passed on to the Catholic Chaplain. Also state that you or your relative would like the Catholic Chaplain to visit you. Chaplains visit the wards during the week and provide an on-call service in case of emergency ...
    Read more here

    CLICK HERE – NEW SECTION: LINK TO THE LATEST PORTSMOUTH DIOCESE E_NEWSLETTER

    UPDATE ON FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PROGRAMME FOR THIS NEW YEAR 2021

    Dear First Communion Parents –  First Communion sessions for Children & Parents – THIS Tuesday & Friday at 5.30PM through ‘ZOOM’. These will be conducted through ‘ZOOM’ while the pandemic continues.. Please, check yours emails or Facebook profiles on Tuesday and Friday to find a link to join our obligatory meeting. Please note these meetings are essential for Children & Parents.

    UPDATE ON BAPTISM REQUESTS 

    • If you need a copy of Baptism certificate please contact the Parish Office.
    • If you want to get someone baptised then feel free to make an appointment with father Marcin.

    For those who would like to arrange a Baptism for their child:

    – Please collect a Baptism Application Form from the porch of the church (or found on the Parish Website);
    – Read carefully what is expected form the Parents and Godparents of a child for this Sacrament;
    – Contact Parish Priest to arrange the very first meeting of getting now each other and to make the individual decision about the process of the preparation;

    RIP

    This week we will say ‘goodbye’, ‘see You again’ to our Dear John Edward Amos. He was one of the most faithful Parishioners to The Holy Mass on the Lord’s Day.
    We will welcome his body into the church this coming Thursday at 4.30pm – all are very welcome. And, next day – Friday 4th June at 10am, we will celebrate The Requiem Mass for the repose of his soul. Let us pray for him, and his Beloved Wife – Marjorie, and whole Family.

    Prayer of the Month – May 2021

    Prayer of the Month – Pope Francis Prayer Intentions May 2021 – Universal intention – The world of finance

    Pope’s Intention (universal):

    We pray that those in charge of finance will work with governments to regulate the financial sphere and protect citizens from its dangers.

    Daily Offering Prayer

    Here I am Lord; words many have said to you.
    Here I am, is what you say to me at the beginning of the day.
    Thank you for love, grace and protection in life.
    In return I offer you the prayer, joys, loves, sufferings and hopes of this day.
    May all I do and say be for your greater glory.
    I pray this with our Lady in this month of May,
    Hail Mary……..

    With Jesus in the Night

    Thanks Lord God for this day
    For all that was good in it.
    Thanks for help in getting through difficulties.
    Keep safe and well in your love all I care for, near and far.
    Look after with love all who have no place to rest tonight
    Or who go to rest hungry.
    May I help them as best I can tomorrow.
    Hail Mary…

    Pray for those of our Own Parish:

    Please pray for those who are ill especially: Caroline Bennett, Robert & Eileen Steward, Louie Muscat, Tony & Julie Duffy, Brian Girling, Shelia Langford; Catherine Morgan, Pam Brown Ward, for all the children suffering and their poor families with them Aidan Molloy, David Shields, Bob Guy, Ms Sini Chacko, Kathleen & Kevin Jones, Heidi Badnell, Rosemary Devonald, Dominic, Carol Langsford, Patricia Ward, Stan Whitnell, Patrick McCreesh, Eddie Coppani, Tony Denny, Betty Foster, Bobby, Eileen Stewart, Joan Smith, John Williams, Margaret Bager, Fred Vuksani, Tom & Lily, Greta Kemp, Magda K, Mary Wallis, Micheline Thompson, Pat Needham, Margaret Badger, Anne Sullivan, Josephine Butler.

    And all whose anniversaries occur at this time: 30th May 2021:  Diana Clark, David Best,Eileen Inkpen, Mary Hehir, Jo Wheeler, Shirley Parker, Dennis William Johnson, Carmen Muscat, Simon Paul Urwin, Mary Denny, Sheila Merrett, George Cowley, Bernard Donaghy, Bridget Nolan, Terry Kendal, William Lynch, Isabella Graham, Michael Collins, Anne McGowan, Wanda Gant, Suzanne Severs, Rosanna Schofield, Winifred Tripp, Catherine Henney, Johanna Davis, Leonard Hayles, Davina Cameron, Charles Cummins, Frank Hilton, Charles William Rolph, Patrick John Tyrrell, William Deary, Frances Barrett, Albert Brain, Jane Lattan, Gladys Whittle, Mary Young, May Flood, Miriam Keane, Ellen Gray, Janice Margaret Johnson, Archbishop John Henry King, William Smith, Eileen Orme, Herbert Diemer, Ann Mary Froggatt, Mary Patricia Tovey, Christine Ann Hogan (Ann), Bridget Hanvery, Florence Ellen Healey, Annie Evison, Albert Mensell, Elizabeth Mary Hawkins, Nora Parker, Lugrezia (Grace) Veronica Tynan, James Madigan, William Morgan, David Calder, Ellen Green, Percy Spicer, Hilda Clifton, Anne Woolfe, James Patrick Madigan, John Stephen Feeley, John Young (Frank), Ethel Penwell, Florence Casey, Alice Whiles, Mary Diver, Eileen Field, Mary Shute, Antoni Brown, Beatrice McIver, Hilda Lowe and Christina Perseltic Carter., ,Lizzie and Patrick McSharry ,Gemma Litchfield , Ivy Rouse , Stan Pickering and Jozef Michalczuk

    May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed through the Mercy of God rest in peace. Amen 

     Community Pray:

    House of Prayer Portsmouth have been praying for the city and feel that God is asking for the churches in the city to prayer walk their boundaries. We would like to invite you as a congregation to walk the boundary of your parish to pray God’s blessing and bring hope, healing and awakening to the area. The Holy Rosary is absolutely perfect for this initiative. You can join the Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/937798273059418/

     

    Litany of Loreto

    Ave Maria The Litany of the Blessed Virgin–also called the Litany of Loreto–is one of the many Marian litanies, or praises of Mary, composed during the Middle Ages. The place of honour it now holds, in the life of the Church, is due its faithful use at the shrine of the Holy House at Loreto, which, according to tradition, was the small cottage-like home where the Holy Family had lived and which was miraculously transported by angels, in 1291, from the Holy Land to its present location in Loreto. It was definitely recommended by Pope Clement VII and approved by ...
    Read more here
    The Brown Scapular

    The Brown Scapular – The full promise of Our Lady of Mount Carmel

    The Brown Scapular and other Scapulars The full promise of Our Lady of Mount Carmel to Saint Simon Stock July 16, 1251 “Accept this Scapular. It shall be a sign of salvation, a protection in danger and a pledge of peace. Whosoever dies clothed in this Scapular shall not suffer eternal fire.” Such is the extraordinary promise Our Lady makes to those who wear Her Brown Scapular. And this wonderful promise makes the Scapular the most powerful sacramental Heaven’s mercy has given us. Who could doubt Our Lady’s promise, as not to wear, with profoundest gratitude and reverence, this abbreviated ...
    Read more here
    Holy Rosary

    Victory Through The Rosary

    “You will be granted all you ask of me by recitation of the rosary.” Also called the Psalter of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Rosary is one of the most excellent prayers to the Mother of God. Thus, "the Roman Pontiffs have repeatedly exhorted the faithful to the frequent recitation of this biblically inspired prayer which is centred on contemplation of the salvific events of Christ's life, and their close association with the Virgin Mother." Our Lady’s Action in History and Today Since the time of Saint Dominic, the Most Holy Rosary has been the weapon by which Our Lady has ...
    Read more here
    Miraculous Medal

    The Miracle of the Miraculous Medal

    These are witnesses of faith and a sign of veneration of the Holy Mother of God, as well as of trust in her maternal protection. The Church blesses such objects of Marian devotion in the belief that "they help to remind the faithful of the love of God, and to increase trust in the Blessed Virgin Mary." The Miracle of the Miraculous Medal: Designed and Revealed by the Blessed Virgin The Medal of the Immaculate Conception, popularly known as the Miraculous Medal, is unique among all medals. The Miraculous Medal was created in response to a request from the Blessed Virgin Mary, ...
    Read more here

    The Regina Coeli

    The authorship of the "Regina Caeli" being unknown, legend says the St. Gregory the Great (d. 604) heard the first three lines chanted by angels on a certain Easter morning in Rome while he walked barefoot in a great religious procession and that the saint thereupon added the fourth line: "Ora pro nobis Deum. Alleluia." — Fr. Gant, moderator, Catholic News The opening words of the Eastertide anthem of the Blessed Virgin, the recitation of which is prescribed from Compline of Holy Saturday until Afternoon Prayer of the Saturday after Pentecost inclusively. Substitute this prayer for the Angelus during the ...
    Read more here
    A Time of Grace

    A Time of Grace

    It is a centuries-old custom of Catholics to dedicate the month of May to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The month of May is always part of the Easter season, the fifty days we celebrate in the liturgy the Resurrection of Our Lord, a time also of awaiting the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The celebration of May as a Marian month fits well with the liturgical celebrations of Easter and Pentecost as we recall Mary’s great joy in her Son’s victory over death as well as her presence with the apostles in the upper room prayerfully awaiting the ...
    Read more here
    Mary and the Popes

    Mary and the Popes

    The Month of Mary and the Popes The pious practice of honouring Mary during the month of May has been especially recommended by the Popes. Pius XII made frequent reference to it and in his great Encyclical on the Sacred Liturgy (Mediator Dei) characterized it as one of "other exercises of piety which although not strictly belonging to the Sacred Liturgy, are nevertheless of special import and dignity, and may be considered in a certain way to be an addition to the liturgical cult: they have been approved and praised over and over again by the Apostolic See and by ...
    Read more here
    Feast of The Queenship of Mary 1 Coronation of Mary

    Mary and Our Spiritual Life

    In our observance of the Marian month we should take into account the season of the Liturgical Year which largely corresponds with the fifty days of Easter. Our pious exercises could emphasize Our Lady's participation in the Paschal mystery and in Pentecost with which the Church begins. The pious exercises connected with the month of May can easily highlight the earthly role played by the glorified Queen of Heaven, here and now, in the celebration of the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist. The following practices which are recommended by the Magisterium are offered as suggestions for honouring Our Lady ...
    Read more here
    Stained glass depicting the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus

    Devotion to Mary

    The Blessed Virgin Mary is the Mother of the Church and therefore the example, as well as the guide and inspiration, of everyone who, in and through the Church, seeks to be the servant of God and man and the obedient agent of the promptings of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit, as Pope Leo XIII reminded us, is the soul of the Church: All the activity and service of the members of the Church, beginning with the supreme participation of the Blessed Mother in the work of the Church, is vivified by the Holy Spirit as the body, in all ...
    Read more here
    Month-Of-Mary

    May dedicated to Our Lady Mary

    The month of May is the "month which the piety of the faithful has especially dedicated to Our Blessed Lady," and it is the occasion for a "moving tribute of faith and love which Catholics in every part of the world pray to the Queen of Heaven. During this month Christians, both in church and in the privacy of the home, offer up to Mary from their hearts an especially fervent and loving homage of prayer and veneration. In this month, too, the benefits of God's mercy come down to us from her throne in greater abundance" (Paul VI: Encyclical ...
    Read more here

    Pastoral Letter from Bishop Philip 08-06-2021

    Pastoral Letter from Bishop Philip 08-06-2021

    Bishop Philip writes... 8th June 2021 This last Sunday, Corpus Christi, I published a Pastoral Letter to be read at all Masses across the Diocese. It’s an invitation to undertake the Year of the Eucharist. Click on the picture for the video recording. You can read it here. My dear ...
    Read More
    The Eucharist

    Blog Topic: The Eucharist is ‘the School of True Love for Us’

    pentecost

    Happy Birthday to Our Catholic Church – Pentecost

    World Communications Day 2021 is on May 16th

    World Communications Day 2021 is on May 16th

     

    Missio Red Boxes

    Thank You so much for all the people of good will and merciful hearts, who – even in this difficult time continue to support missionaries around the world through their red boxes support. In 2020 our Parish raised over £1400, which was absolutely amazing.

    THIS is a time to bring your red boxes to be emptied again. Please, bring them to the sacristy or pass to our Dear Denis, who is an ambassador of this deed of mercy in our Parish. Thank You so much for your generosity.

     

     

    OFFERTORY: Thank you for last Sunday’s Collection.

    Electronic offertory: If you have not managed to set up your electronic giving yet, please can you do so as soon as possible.
    The Parish Bank Account details are: Account Name (Lloyd’s Bank’): PRCDTR Our Lady of Lourdes’ & St Swithun Church Sort Code: 30-93-04; parish Account no: 01730453.

    Financial assistance: If you are able to increase your usual weekly offering (during this time of uncertainty) it will be a huge help to the parish. Even the slightest increase will be a help – THANK YOU!

    These weeks of lockdown are difficult for all of us, and we are particularly mindful of those whose jobs and lives are put on hold because of the pandemic. We want to be here for you during these difficult times. Even so, the Church in our Diocese of Portsmouth, its clergy, parishes and schools, is entirely dependent upon your generous charity. So that we can continue to provide the Liturgy of the Lord and our works, both centrally and from our parishes to the local community, I kindly ask all of the faithful who are able to do so, to continue their generous regular-giving to the Diocese and to their parish churches, which would otherwise lose vital income. You can donate via the button on the Parish website – or here 

    Standing Order and  other useful Information

     Download Standing Order Form (PDF)

    These are difficult times and if you are needing anything from me please message me on Facebook book, email or telephone the office. 02392828305

    Lloyds Bank : sort code 30-93-04 ; Account number 01730453 (Cheques mad payable to: PRCDTR Our Lady & St. Swithun)

    with Blessings Father Marcin Drabik

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    Download Newsletter PDF -30-05-2021

    WE’RE SO EXCITED TO SHARE THIS NEWS WITH YOU AND DON’T FORGET USE THE CONTACT FORMS ON OUR WEBSITE !

    Download this newsletter in printer-friendly PDF format to read later.

    Download this week’s Newsletter here:  Newsletter: 30th May 2021 – The Most Holy Trinity Year B

    Calendars

      Daily Services Calendars for all times

      Saints Calendar to learn about this weeks Saints

      Daily Reading Calendar for the prayers this week

      View All of our Parish Events Here

    PARISH CONTACTS

    • PARISH PRIEST: Father Marcin Drabik tel: 02392 828305 email: mdrabik@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk 
    • Address: 105 Waverley Road, Southsea, PO5 2PL;
    • Safeguarding Minister: Teresa Rowe  tel: 023 92 818295;
    • Safeguarding Minister: Anne Worden  tel: 023 92 817586;
    • Parish Office Hours: Tues, Thurs, 8.00am –12.30pm. tel: 02392 828 305
      email: southseaparish@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

    HELP US SHARE THE GOOD NEWS!

    Let people know and come join in the conversation online!
    LIKE/SHARE our Facebook Page: St Swithuns Page
    FOLLOW us on Twitter: @FrMarcinD
    @St_swithun

    “CAN-DO CHRISTIANS” A MESSAGE FROM FATHER MARCIN

    Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Dear Friends: I would like to share with You some things which are about our Parish and for our Parish.  I’m absolutely sure, that You have noticed how many things already happen in our Parish to help in our spiritual grow to love God more and more in His Word to us, in His Sacraments for us (which is His real presence among us). We also go out to meet those who still searching for God, or who were not so lucky to have personal contact with Jesus Christ.

     

    NEW SECTION ON OUR WEBSITE IF YOU JUST WANT TO SPEND SOME SPECIAL TIME WITH GOD

      Read More on our Renewal Pages here

    Updated Coronavirus Safety Guidelines

    Track and trace: code. Please use the QR Code (on the back of the church). Simply hold your camera app over the code and follow the instructions. This would be helpful should a local outbreak of the virus be detected.
    Ventilation:In order for us to comply with regulations and therefore be considered a ‘COVID secure environment’ the doors must be left open. As the temperature drops in the weeks ahead it will be important to wrap-up warm for Mass! Please do bear this in mind.

    WELCOME BACK! To those who wish to return to Mass at a time when our Church is not crowded, it is recommended to come to the VIGIL MASS of SUNDAY – on Saturdays at 6.00PM or on SUNDAYS at 8.30AM when there is plenty of room in the body of the Church. Members of the congregation are well spaced out. Now that we have to wear masks, this is an additional precaution which prevents others being infected; however, some people have medical exemption. Sanitising hands on entry lessens the possibility of the virus being spread by touching surfaces.

    There are signs on the floor indicating two metres so that we do not crowd up on one another.

    TEST & TRACE: We will also take a contact number for all attendees. These details will be destroyed after 21 days according to data management regulations. Anyone is free to decline and still attend Mass but we encourage you to take part.

    The Diocese has updated its Coronavirus guidance in the light of the latest Government instructions issued on 14th September 2020. There is a little more flexibility in some areas than previously, for example, in ministry to the sick and housebound, although great care must still be taken. The use of halls and the possibility of reinstating some group meetings are covered. There is limited scope for general socialising because the ‘Rule of 6’ has been imposed. Our churches are very COVID-safe, provided everyone is following the proper safety procedures. Our thanks as ever to clergy and parishioners who are working hard at this. One area, however, that remains a challenge is having sufficient volunteers (e.g. stewards and cleaners) to assist. If you are hale and hearty, please do offer to help– your assistance will enable many more people to return to Mass, thereby bringing them closer to Jesus Christ through His Church. Let us all pray for a speedy end to the pandemic.

    Please remember the advice is to wear a mask inside closed areas and churches.

    Click this link for any questions you might have found on our website.

    Newsletter: 23rd May 2021 – Pentecost Sunday B

    Please, pray for our Candidates for The Sacrament of Confirmation, who will receive this Sacrament this Sunday 23rd May at 3.00pm, at St Swithun’s Church – all are very welcome to join us.

    My Dearest Parishioners, Visitors, Friends – Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ

    Today, the day of Pentecost, the fulfilment of the promise Christ made the Apostles is finally accomplished. The evening of that Easter day He breathed on them and said to them: “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:22). The Holy Spirit’s arrival on the Day of Pentecost renews and brings this gift to plenitude in a solemn way and with external manifestations. Thus, culminates the paschal mystery.

    Jesus conveys the Spirit into the disciples to create a new human condition while producing unity. When man’s arrogance made him think he could defy God by building the Babel tower, God mixed their languages, so they could not understand each other anymore. With the Pentecost it just happens the contrary: on the grace of the Holy Spirit, people from the most varied origins and languages can understand the Apostles.

    The Holy Spirit is the intimate and personal Master who guides the disciple towards the truth, who motivates him to do good, who consoles him in the pain, who transforms him intimately, while giving him a new strength and capacity.

    The first day of the Pentecost of the Christian era, the Apostles were gathered around the Virgin Mary, while praying. The recollection, and the praying attitude, are necessary to receive the Spirit. “And suddenly there came from the sky a noise like a strong driving wind, and it filled the entire house in which they were. Then there appeared to them tongues as of fire, which parted and came to rest on each one of them” (Acts 2:2-3).

    They remained full of the Holy Spirit and, bravely, they started to preach. Those fearful men had been transformed into courageous preachers unafraid of gaol, torture or martyrdom. Which should not surprise us, for the Holy Spirit’s strength dwelt within them.

    The Holy Spirit, the Third Person of the Blessed Trinity, is my soul’s soul, the life of my life, the entity of my entity; it is my sanctifier, the guest in my deepest interior. To reach maturity in a life of faith our relationship with Him must be, time and again, more conscientious, more personal. In this celebration of the Pentecost we must have the doors, deep down us, wide open.

    REFLECTION

    Introductory Prayer: Today, Lord, we celebrate the gift of your Holy Spirit to the Church, which you won for us through your patient suffering on the cross. I believe and trust in his power to make me a better apostle of your Kingdom, to bring fervor where I have grown tepid, to instill detachment where I have become too indulgent, and to perfect the innocence of my baptism, which leaves my soul more pure and worthy to serve and honor you each day.

    Petition: Come Holy Spirit, fill my heart with your grace and enkindle in me the fire of your love.

    1. The Doors Were Locked: What is it that makes a disciple of Christ stop cold in the path of conversion and commitment? Cloaked underneath our spiritual inertia and lack of zeal are not so much our personal defects or our lack of human virtue as blindness to the dynamic power of the Crucified and Risen Lord. We can leave our self-made prisons only by opening our hearts to a faith in Christ that is total: total trust (in spite of the confusion of the present and uncertainty of the future), total hope (by breaking away from having to see the ideal in ourselves before we will act), and total divine confidence (in setting aside the sins of others and our personal failures that keep us stuck in myopic visions of life). Christ comes through bolted doors again today to ask us to unlock them with an authentic experience of the Risen Lord in the power of the Spirit.

    2. Peace Be With You: It is vital to examine our “peace” and see if it truly speaks of the peace of the Upper Room. Substitute “satisfaction” for the word “peace,” and see where our hearts have tried to find consolation this past week. Then substitute the word “fulfillment.” This is the peace that Christ brings through the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Some passing satisfactions are part of life, and we can be grateful for them. When we seek them for their own sake, however, we can easily drown out the life of the Spirit, who comes to bring us deep peace and fulfillment in life. Pentecost must convince us above all about prayer and the order of life that permit us to have constant contact with sources of grace and divine inspiration.

    3. Receive the Holy Spirit: In the sacrament of penance, we are forgiven our sins through the action of the Holy Spirit, who makes the actions of Christ present through the priest. We believe that mercy founds hope and change in our soul. Why, then, do we not believe that this same grace from the Holy Spirit can make us heroic saints, victorious in trial, patient in difficult relationships and more effective as apostles? Christ assures us that his power will never leave us, so we have no reason to “slip into neutral” after a few bad incidents in our life. Rather, the Holy Spirit’s goal moves us from mercy to transformation into Christ, permitting us spiritually to carry and reveal his wounds to an unbelieving world.

    Conversation with Christ: Oh, Jesus, I will trust more in the power of your Holy Spirit to change me than in my own efforts. I will depend on you in that face-to-face encounter I need to have with you every day. Let the sources of divine grace become my true food, and may I move away from feeding my soul on passing pleasures and vain ambitions.

    Resolution: This week, I will write down daily all the lights and inspirations of the Holy Spirit I receive, and I will try to act on them with promptness, confidence and generosity.

    with Blessings and prayerful best wishes, Father Marcin Drabik

     

    Service Times from Saturday May 23rd 2021  until May 30th  2021 – All Services will also be streamlined on-line
  • Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/Stswithuns.org.uk/
    		•
    Download this week's Newsletter here: Newsletter: 23rd May 2021 - Pentecost Sunday B
    DateLocationlinks to readings and Services
    Sunday 23rd May 2021 Pentecost Sunday
    		St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 23-05-2021
    Monday 24th May 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 24-05-2021
    Tuesday 25th May 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 25-05-2021
    Wednesday 26th May 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 26-05-2021
    Thursday 27th May 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 27-05-2021
    Friday 28th May 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 28-05-2021
    Saturday 29th May 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 29-05-2021
    Sunday 30th May 2021 The Most Holy Trinity B
    		St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 30-05-2021

     

     

     Read today’s Readiings here

    Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 23-05-2021

    What is Pentecost? A fun Catholic reflection for kids based on the readings for Pentecost Sunday.. (Catholic Kids Media) A fun Catholic reflection for kids based on the readings for the 6th Sunday of Easter, cycle B. Support this channel on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/catholickidsm...​ Or on Venmo: @catholickidsmedia Catholic Kids Media In Sunday’s Gospel, John 20:19-23  Jesus  tells us , God sends his Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost - Pentecost Sunday. On a hot summer day, an electric fan can really help to keep us cool. How does a fan help to keep us cool? That's right, it keeps us cool by blowing air. I think I will turn the fan on now. Do you see any air coming out of the fan? Well, if we can't see the air, how do you know the fan is working? There are several ways we can tell that this fan is working. One ...
    Read more here
    Thoughts on Today's Gospel and Readings for the Week - 23-05-2021

    Thoughts on Today’s Gospel and Readings for the Week – 23-05-2021

    Background on the John 20:19-23 Jesus appears to his disciples and gives them the gift of the Holy Spirit. The season of Easter concludes with today’s celebration, the feast of Pentecost. On Pentecost we celebrate the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles gathered in the upper room in Jerusalem; this event marks the beginning of the Church. The story of Pentecost is found in the Acts of the Apostles, today’s first reading. The account in today’s Gospel, John 20:19-23, also recounts how Jesus gave the gift of the Holy Spirit to his disciples. Yet the event in John’s Gospel takes place on Easter Sunday. There is no need to try to reconcile these two accounts. It is to we know that after his death, Jesus fulfilled his promise to send to his disciples a helper, an Advocate, who would enable them to be his witnesses throughout the world ...
    Read more here
    Pentecost The Holy Spirit

    Dr. Scott Hahn – Gospel Reflections 23-05-2021

    A New Wind: Scott Hahn Reflects on Pentecost Sunday The giving of the Spirit to the new people of God crowns the mighty acts of the Father in salvation history. The Jewish feast of Pentecost called all devout Jews to Jerusalem to celebrate their birth as God’s chosen people in the covenant Law given to Moses at Sinai (see Leviticus 23:15–21; Deuteronomy 16:9–11). In today’s First Reading, the mysteries prefigured in that feast are fulfilled in the pouring out of the Spirit on Mary and the Apostles (see Acts 1:14). The Spirit seals the new law and new covenant brought by Jesus, written not on stone tablets but on the hearts of believers, as the prophets promised (see Jeremiah 31:31–34; 2 Corinthians 3:2–8; Romans 8:2). The Spirit is revealed as the life-giving breath of the Father, the Wisdom by which He made all things, as we sing in today’s Psalm. In the beginning, the Spirit came ...
    Read more here
    Holy Spirit

    Commentary on Acts 2:1-11; 1 Corinthians 12:3-7,12-13; John 20:19-23

    TODAY WE CELEBRATE what is often called the birthday of the Church. Happy birthday to all! We also bring to completion our celebration of the Paschal Mystery – the suffering, death, resurrection, ascension and coming of the Spirit on Jesus’ disciples. Although this ‘mystery’ is really one single reality, we have stretched its celebration over a period of more than seven weeks. That such a time frame is not to be too excessively emphasised as historical fact is indicated by the two very different accounts of the giving of the Spirit we have in the readings of today’s Mass. Full of symbols Most of us are more familiar with the account given in the Acts of the Apostles which is the First Reading of today’s Mass. In this account, the apostles are all gathered in one room at the time of the Jewish feast of Pentecost, which in the Jewish ...
    Read more here

     

    Happy Birthday to Our Catholic Church – Pentecost

    Happy birthday to the Catholic Church! Happy birthday to you, who are the body of the Church!

    We're all familiar with our own birthdays, and we celebrate them because they mark the day of the year in which we entered into this life. But did you know you have a second birthday?  Because you are part of the body of the Church, Pentecost is the Church's birthday, and yours as well. And like any birthday, it's a cause for ...
    Read more here

    CATHOLIC BISHOPS’ CONFERENCE OF ENGLAND AND WALES Pastoral Letter for Pentecost 2021

    A Pastoral Letter on the environment, prepared by the Bishops of England and Wales, for use in churches on 23 May 2021, Pentecost Sunday. The Solemnity of Pentecost reminds us that everything which exists, every person and the whole of creation, is a gift of “God the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.” God our loving Father creates and continues to give life to the world through His Word, Jesus Christ, in the power of His Holy Spirit ...
    Read more here

    Philip Kosloski – Where did the apostles receive the Holy Spirit at Pentecost?

    The apostles could have received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost either in the "upper room" or at the temple in Jerusalem. In the Acts of the Apostles, it is narrated that the apostles received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. However, the exact location of this momentous event is not clearly marked, and many biblical scholars debate where it could have happened. Immediately after the ascension of Jesus, it is stated that, “When they entered [Jerusalem] they went to the ...
    Read more here

    Bishop Philip Update – The Sacrament of Confirmation May 23rd 2021

    Update from Bishop  Philip 15/05/2021 In two weeks’ time, we have the great feast of Pentecost and I have prepared a Message to all the candidates who on that day are going to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. It will be read at the Liturgy. Please pray for all our candidates. Confirmation is always a wonderful moment in the life of a young person and also a wonderful moment in the life of the Diocese. Last year, we had ...
    Read more here

    Bishop Barron on the Holy Spirit

    Understanding the Holy Spirit

    Friends, what are the basics we should know about the Holy Spirit? Who is he? And why is the Holy Spirit even necessary? Why not just God the Father and God the Son? In today's episode of "The Word on Fire Show," we reflect on the Holy Spirit and explain how to grow closer to him and receive all his gifts. A listener asks: what type of items would belong in a home devotional corner? ...
    Read more here

    Rosary Day for Schools and Young People – Monday 24th May

    Bishop Philip writes... Antonia Moffat from the National Shrine of Our Lady at Walsingham draws our attention to a special day of prayer for our young people on Monday 24th May, the Feast of Mary, Mother of the Church... Pope Francis is encouraging Catholics to pray the Rosary in their family homes during the month of May, especially when the Pandemic is making us aware of the value of our families and ...
    Read more here

    The Holy Spirit and the Church

    Veni, Creator Spiritus (Come Holy Spirit, Creator Blest)

    One of the most widely used hymns in the Church, Veni, Creator Spiritus, is attributed to Rabanus Maurus; (776-856). It is used at Vespers, Pentecost, Dedication of a Church, Confirmation, and Holy Orders and whenever the Holy Spirit is solemnly invoked. A partial indulgence is granted to the faithful who recite it. A plenary indulgence is granted if it is recited on January 1st or on the feast of Pentecost. Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest, and in our souls take up Thy rest; come with Thy grace and heavenly aid to fill the hearts which Thou hast made. O comforter, ...
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    Diocese of Portsmouth - Year of the Eucharist begins

    Diocese of Portsmouth – Year of the Eucharist begins

    In our Diocese of Portsmouth, we will begin a Year of the Eucharist starting on the Feast of Corpus Christi, 6th June 2021. As you know, in these years 2020 to 2022, I am inviting everyone in the Diocese to undertake by God’s grace a period of intense, spiritual renewal. The purpose ultimately is to help us realise our diocesan ambition of Bringing People Closer to Jesus Christ through His Church. We are always totally dependent on God and His grace and on the gifts of the Holy Spirit He pours out upon us through the Holy Eucharist. In other words, we ...
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    Thank you to our Parishioners for the Novena to the Holy Spirit

    Thank you to our Parishioners for the Novena to the Holy Spirit

    I would like to thank all the LEADERS of The Novena before PENTECOST SUNDAY, for their inspirational sessions to praise God, call The Holy Spirit and share with us the knowledge about the symbols of The Holy Spirit. You don’t even imagine how many powerful testimonies of the received graces I have received, and I’m sure there are and will be much, much more. Thank You: Mr DJ Buckland, Anke Bosse, Amanda Buadi, Brian & Linda McCreesh, Vincenzo & Ruth Tamma, Lisa Butler & Andrew Campbell, Lucy Sayer, Kathleen Jones & Sandra Morgan ...
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    Gretchen Erlichman - The call of the cloister - The Dominican Sisters

    Gretchen Erlichman – The call of the cloister – The Dominican Sisters

    A young woman's discernment of a vocation as a contemplative Dominican nun. "Our Holy Father Dominic was moved with compassion for the salvation of souls. But before he sent out his first Friars Preachers, Divine Providence led him to found a monastery of women who would be the first Nuns of the Order of Preachers. But who are the Dominican Nuns and what place do they have in the Church and Order?" Three years ago, if someone had suggested I enter a monastery, I would have laughed politely and continued to pursue the neat little plan I had set up ...
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    Fr Mike Schmitz – Living in the Present Moment

    The Holy Spirit is always in the present moment with us. The present moment is a unique gift from God, yet so often, rather than live in the present, we pine for another time in our lives, focusing on future goals or better times from the past. In this video, Fr. Mike Schmitz challenges us to notice the “sacrament of the present moment” and see what graces God wants us to enjoy right now. Fr. Mike is also a presenter in these faith formation programs from Ascension: ...
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    Laudato Si’ Week May 16th to May 25th 2021 – A Call to Change

    This week the Laudato Si network encourage everyone to reflect and response to the Call to Change. “The urgent challenge to protect our common home includes a concern to bring the whole human family together to seek a sustainable and integral development for we know that things can change” #LS13 This year’s Laudato Si’ Week runs from 16th - 25th May and will be celebrated throughout the global Church with events for the Special Laudato Si’ Anniversary Year.  A celebration of the great progress the whole Church has made on its journey to ecological conversion as well as a time to ...
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    Webinar June 2nd - Renewing the Church with Father Mike Schmitz

    Webinar June 2nd – Renewing the Church with Father Mike Schmitz

    Join the Divine Renovation Team on Wednesday 2nd June at 5pm British Summer Time for a Webinar on the Holy Spirit’s Role in Renewing the Church with Father Mike Schmitz There is a lot of uncertainty swirling around what to expect of the post-pandemic Church. There is one certainty to give us hope and confidence and that is the role of the Holy Spirit in the renewal of the Church. From the moment Jesus breathed the Holy Spirit upon the apostles to this exact moment in time, the Spirit desires renewal, and that renewal starts in our own hearts first. Join Matt Regitz and ...
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    Holy Spirit Novena Prayers - May 2021

    Holy Spirit Novena Prayers – May 2021

    WE ARE ALL VERY WELCOME – to experience our preparation for another Birthday of The One, Holy, Catholic & Apostolic Church, and we pray for the sanctification of this world and ours. Every day will be led by our special people of good will, in a specific subject based on the SYMBOLS of THE HOLY SPIRIT. In approx. 45 minutes we will listen to a short conference, praise the Lord by special hymns, spontaneous prayers of the intercessions, texts of the Holy Scripture followed by 15minutes Adoration of The Blessed Sacrament. And this is our plan: The novena in honour ...
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    Pope urges Catholics to pray Rosary in May for end to Covid-19 pandemic

    Pope urges Catholics to pray Rosary in May for end to Covid-19 pandemic

    Pope Francis invites Catholics and Marian Shrines around the world to dedicate the month of May to a marathon of prayer for an end to the Covid-19 pandemic Catholics across the globe are encouraged to dedicate the Marian month of May to praying for an end to the pandemic. The initiative, behind which the Pope has thrown his support, involves 30 Marian Shrines from various parts of the world. It takes place under the theme “The whole Church was fervently praying to God,” which recalls a verse in the Book of Acts (12:5). Prayer initiative “The initiative will involve all ...
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    Pentecost - The Holy Spirit comes down on us All.

    Pentecost – The Holy Spirit comes down on us All.

    At Pentecost, we see the Holy Spirit coming down upon the disciples, who were scared and alone, giving them gifts that would help them meet and evangelize the very people who were out to persecute them. In today's world, where the Church is being persecuted in different ways, let us call upon the Holy Spirit to give us the gifts to do the same here and now! ...
    Read more here
    April Holy Spirit

    The Holy Spirit and the Holy Eucharist

    The Holy Spirit and the Holy Eucharist are both at the heart of what being Catholic is all about. We believe in the Holy Spirit and the transformation of bread into the Body of Christ. There are many symbols used to represent the Holy Spirit, but the two most notable are fire and the dove. Fire is cleansing. Where there is fire, something imperfect is destroyed and something new arises. It indicates an intense and powerful energy capable of transforming the soul. The dove on the other hand, is used repeatedly to signal the touch of the invisible omnipresent God ...
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    Signs and Symbols

    Signs and Symbols

    The signs and symbols used in the Church’s liturgy provide us with a great opportunity for reflection. These simple elements of everyday life invite us to reflect on the mystery of our faith. Most of them are also found in our own homes: oil, bread, light, water, wine, and white clothing. They are simple, basic and very accessible to us. These simple elements of everyday life invite us to reflect on the mystery of our faith. We need symbols that speak to us of the sacred. In our present age we are confronted with so many flashing images and shrill ...
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    Oaklands Catholic School and Sixth Form College Teacher of Mathematics

    Start Date – Permanent, Full Time April or September 2021

    The Governors are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic and committed teacher to join our hardworking, highly experienced and supportive Maths Team.
    The Governors are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic and committed teacher to join our hardworking, highly experienced and supportive Science Team.
    For both Applicant Information Packs please visit our website: Vacancies – Oaklands Catholic School and Sixth Form College For both positions: Closing Date: Friday 26th March, 12.00noon Proposed Interviews: Week beginning Monday 29th March Please note that the school reserves the right to appoint at any point during the recruitment process.

    M Quinn – Headteacher

    Want to help make a difference? – Government’s Community Sponsorship scheme

    We are a small group of people, mainly from Cathedral parish, exploring how we can bring a refugee family to Portsmouth under the Government’s Community Sponsorship scheme. We are looking for volunteers to work with us and pray there will be a good response from all parishes in the Portsmouth Pastoral Area. In particular we are looking for people with skills and knowledge of financial management, fundraising, legal, IT, benefits, housing, language support, translation or befriending, but any help will be gratefully considered.

    We are working with Reset (see resetuk.org) a very supportive organisation able to give some training, also there are a number of other Pastoral Areas around the Diocese with experience of this already – so please, if you would like to find out more about helping to make an enormous difference to a family living in dreadful and dangerous circumstances.

    Please get in touch with Sheila Daly on 07923841668 or mindy4161922@gmail.com

     

    Keep up with what’s Happening in our Parish over this coming Year

    Scroll through to see all the events happening from the 23rd May 2021 till the 31st May 2021

    Or Go to our Parish Events Diary and search a specific date or event  here https://stswithuns.org.uk/events/

    THIS WEEK FOR ALL:  Through: https://www.facebook.com/Stswithuns.org.uk

    Facebook Profile – in English (St Swithuns RC Church Southsea): ‘A GLASS OF WINE’ with Fr Marcin – Q&A of The Catholic Faith on:

    TUESDAY at 8.00pm – SUBJECT: ‘Come, Holy Spirit, Come – A need and how to cultivate the gifts of the Holy Spirit in us’;
    THURSDAY at 8.00pm – SUBJECT: ‘Follow the path of holiness – we are called to accept the gift of humanity;

    Facebook Profile –in Polish (St Swithuns RC Kościół Southsea): ‘MORNING COFFEE WITH MYSTICS’ brewed by Fr Marcin on: 

    ‘MORNING COFFEE WITH MYSTICS’ brewed by Fr Marcin on: TUESDAY at 11.15am;

    Children Pray together via our Zoom Online Catholic School:

    Your children can join us for our Zoom online Catholic School  (PLEASE NOT: REGISTRATION IS NEED – see the form below)

    URGENT APPEAL - FOOD PARCELS FOR OUR HOMELESS NEEDED IN PORTSMOUTH

    URGENT APPEAL – FOOD PARCELS FOR OUR HOMELESS NEEDED IN PORTSMOUTH

    Dear Friends, as You know – we try our best to help homeless (and the poor) in many ways. One of them, very important and popular is providing the lunch on Sundays, with an incredible generosity and sacrifice from St Vincent de Paul’s members of our Parish. We need your help in this difficult times, to make by yourself 45 packed lunches or to provide us with the products or donation, so we can make it by ourselves. Each packed lunch includes: - 2 sandwiches; - At least 1 fruit; - Something to drink (a juice, water) - Something sweet ...
    Read more here
    Ascent Group - Events 2021 Timetable

    Ascent Group – Events 2021 Timetable

    Dear Friends May you be blessed with a happy and hopeful New Year. Although we are still in the midst of illness and restrictions, there are signs of hope as vaccines begin to be rolled out. We thank God for the answers to prayers made right at the beginning of the pandemic, that vaccines would be developed quickly; and we continue to pray for those suffering and for an end to the global crisis. ADoRE monthly sessions will continue online for the foreseable future, and we are encouraged by many positive reactions already to our 2021 programme plans - see below ...
    Read more here
    going into hospital

    GOING INTO HOSPITAL?

    GOING INTO HOSPITAL? Due to strict data protection rules it is essential on entering hospital to indicate your details or those of your relative to be passed on to the Catholic Chaplain. Also state that you or your relative would like the Catholic Chaplain to visit you. Chaplains visit the wards during the week and provide an on-call service in case of emergency ...
    Read more here

    CLICK HERE – NEW SECTION: LINK TO THE LATEST PORTSMOUTH DIOCESE E_NEWSLETTER

    UPDATE ON FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PROGRAMME FOR THIS NEW YEAR 2021

    Dear First Communion Parents –  First Communion sessions for Children & Parents – THIS Tuesday & Friday at 5.30PM through ‘ZOOM’. These will be conducted through ‘ZOOM’ while the pandemic continues.. Please, check yours emails or Facebook profiles on Tuesday and Friday to find a link to join our obligatory meeting. Please note these meetings are essential for Children & Parents.

    Update on the Sacrament of Confirmation :

    We hope, very much, for the Confirmation sessions to begin in May, to finish our journey to this Sacrament, which was suddenly stopped last year because pandemic. We are obviously having to keep rearranging our plans due to COVID developments. Please keep an eye on the newsletter for further information.(The Sacrament of Confirmation will be celebrated in our Parish, at St Swithun’s church on the Pentecost Sunday 23rd May 2021, at 3.00pm.

    UPDATE ON BAPTISM REQUESTS 

    • If you need a copy of Baptism certificate please contact the Parish Office.
    • If you want to get someone baptised then feel free to make an appointment with father Marcin.

    For those who would like to arrange a Baptism for their child:

    – Please collect a Baptism Application Form from the porch of the church (or found on the Parish Website);
    – Read carefully what is expected form the Parents and Godparents of a child for this Sacrament;
    – Contact Parish Priest to arrange the very first meeting of getting now each other and to make the individual decision about the process of the preparation;

    Prayer of the Month – May 2021

    Prayer of the Month – Pope Francis Prayer Intentions May 2021 – Universal intention – The world of finance

    Pope’s Intention (universal):

    We pray that those in charge of finance will work with governments to regulate the financial sphere and protect citizens from its dangers.

    Daily Offering Prayer

    Here I am Lord; words many have said to you.
    Here I am, is what you say to me at the beginning of the day.
    Thank you for love, grace and protection in life.
    In return I offer you the prayer, joys, loves, sufferings and hopes of this day.
    May all I do and say be for your greater glory.
    I pray this with our Lady in this month of May,
    Hail Mary……..

    With Jesus in the Night

    Thanks Lord God for this day
    For all that was good in it.
    Thanks for help in getting through difficulties.
    Keep safe and well in your love all I care for, near and far.
    Look after with love all who have no place to rest tonight
    Or who go to rest hungry.
    May I help them as best I can tomorrow.
    Hail Mary…

    Pray for those of our Own Parish:

    Please pray for those who are ill especially: Caroline Bennett, Robert & Eileen Steward, Louie Muscat, Tony & Julie Duffy, Brian Girling, Shelia Langford; Catherine Morgan, Pam Brown Ward, for all the children suffering and their poor families with them Aidan Molloy, David Shields, Bob Guy, Ms Sini Chacko, Kathleen & Kevin Jones, Heidi Badnell, Rosemary Devonald, Dominic, Carol Langsford, Patricia Ward, Stan Whitnell, Patrick McCreesh, Eddie Coppani, Tony Denny, Betty Foster, Bobby, Eileen Stewart, Joan Smith, John Williams, Margaret Bager, Fred Vuksani, Tom & Lily, Greta Kemp, Magda K, Mary Wallis, Micheline Thompson, Pat Needham, Margaret Badger, Anne Sullivan, Josephine Butler.

    And all whose anniversaries occur at this time: 23rd May 2021:  Diana Clark, David Best,Eileen Inkpen, Mary Hehir, Jo Wheeler, Shirley Parker, Dennis William Johnson, Carmen Muscat, Simon Paul Urwin, Mary Denny, Sheila Merrett, George Cowley, Bernard Donaghy, Bridget Nolan, Terry Kendal, William Lynch, Isabella Graham, Michael Collins, Anne McGowan, Wanda Gant, Suzanne Severs, Rosanna Schofield, Winifred Tripp, Catherine Henney, Johanna Davis, Leonard Hayles, Davina Cameron, Charles Cummins, Frank Hilton, Charles William Rolph, Patrick John Tyrrell, William Deary, Frances Barrett, Albert Brain, Jane Lattan, Gladys Whittle, Mary Young, May Flood, Miriam Keane, Ellen Gray, Janice Margaret Johnson, Archbishop John Henry King, William Smith, Eileen Orme, Herbert Diemer, Ann Mary Froggatt, Mary Patricia Tovey, Christine Ann Hogan (Ann), Bridget Hanvery, Florence Ellen Healey, Annie Evison, Albert Mensell, Elizabeth Mary Hawkins, Nora Parker, Lugrezia (Grace) Veronica Tynan, James Madigan, William Morgan, David Calder, Ellen Green, Percy Spicer, Hilda Clifton, Anne Woolfe, James Patrick Madigan, John Stephen Feeley, John Young (Frank), Ethel Penwell, Florence Casey, Alice Whiles, Mary Diver, Eileen Field, Mary Shute, Antoni Brown, Beatrice McIver, Hilda Lowe and Christina Perseltic Carter., ,Lizzie and Patrick McSharry ,Gemma Litchfield , Ivy Rouse , Stan Pickering and Jozef Michalczuk

    May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed through the Mercy of God rest in peace. Amen 

     Community Pray:

    House of Prayer Portsmouth have been praying for the city and feel that God is asking for the churches in the city to prayer walk their boundaries. We would like to invite you as a congregation to walk the boundary of your parish to pray God’s blessing and bring hope, healing and awakening to the area. The Holy Rosary is absolutely perfect for this initiative. You can join the Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/937798273059418/

     

    Litany of Loreto

    Ave Maria The Litany of the Blessed Virgin–also called the Litany of Loreto–is one of the many Marian litanies, or praises of Mary, composed during the Middle Ages. The place of honour it now holds, in the life of the Church, is due its faithful use at the shrine of the Holy House at Loreto, which, according to tradition, was the small cottage-like home where the Holy Family had lived and which was miraculously transported by angels, in 1291, from the Holy Land to its present location in Loreto. It was definitely recommended by Pope Clement VII and approved by ...
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    The Brown Scapular

    The Brown Scapular – The full promise of Our Lady of Mount Carmel

    The Brown Scapular and other Scapulars The full promise of Our Lady of Mount Carmel to Saint Simon Stock July 16, 1251 “Accept this Scapular. It shall be a sign of salvation, a protection in danger and a pledge of peace. Whosoever dies clothed in this Scapular shall not suffer eternal fire.” Such is the extraordinary promise Our Lady makes to those who wear Her Brown Scapular. And this wonderful promise makes the Scapular the most powerful sacramental Heaven’s mercy has given us. Who could doubt Our Lady’s promise, as not to wear, with profoundest gratitude and reverence, this abbreviated ...
    Read more here
    Holy Rosary

    Victory Through The Rosary

    “You will be granted all you ask of me by recitation of the rosary.” Also called the Psalter of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Rosary is one of the most excellent prayers to the Mother of God. Thus, "the Roman Pontiffs have repeatedly exhorted the faithful to the frequent recitation of this biblically inspired prayer which is centred on contemplation of the salvific events of Christ's life, and their close association with the Virgin Mother." Our Lady’s Action in History and Today Since the time of Saint Dominic, the Most Holy Rosary has been the weapon by which Our Lady has ...
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    Miraculous Medal

    The Miracle of the Miraculous Medal

    These are witnesses of faith and a sign of veneration of the Holy Mother of God, as well as of trust in her maternal protection. The Church blesses such objects of Marian devotion in the belief that "they help to remind the faithful of the love of God, and to increase trust in the Blessed Virgin Mary." The Miracle of the Miraculous Medal: Designed and Revealed by the Blessed Virgin The Medal of the Immaculate Conception, popularly known as the Miraculous Medal, is unique among all medals. The Miraculous Medal was created in response to a request from the Blessed Virgin Mary, ...
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    The Regina Coeli

    The authorship of the "Regina Caeli" being unknown, legend says the St. Gregory the Great (d. 604) heard the first three lines chanted by angels on a certain Easter morning in Rome while he walked barefoot in a great religious procession and that the saint thereupon added the fourth line: "Ora pro nobis Deum. Alleluia." — Fr. Gant, moderator, Catholic News The opening words of the Eastertide anthem of the Blessed Virgin, the recitation of which is prescribed from Compline of Holy Saturday until Afternoon Prayer of the Saturday after Pentecost inclusively. Substitute this prayer for the Angelus during the ...
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    A Time of Grace

    A Time of Grace

    It is a centuries-old custom of Catholics to dedicate the month of May to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The month of May is always part of the Easter season, the fifty days we celebrate in the liturgy the Resurrection of Our Lord, a time also of awaiting the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The celebration of May as a Marian month fits well with the liturgical celebrations of Easter and Pentecost as we recall Mary’s great joy in her Son’s victory over death as well as her presence with the apostles in the upper room prayerfully awaiting the ...
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    Mary and the Popes

    Mary and the Popes

    The Month of Mary and the Popes The pious practice of honouring Mary during the month of May has been especially recommended by the Popes. Pius XII made frequent reference to it and in his great Encyclical on the Sacred Liturgy (Mediator Dei) characterized it as one of "other exercises of piety which although not strictly belonging to the Sacred Liturgy, are nevertheless of special import and dignity, and may be considered in a certain way to be an addition to the liturgical cult: they have been approved and praised over and over again by the Apostolic See and by ...
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    Feast of The Queenship of Mary 1 Coronation of Mary

    Mary and Our Spiritual Life

    In our observance of the Marian month we should take into account the season of the Liturgical Year which largely corresponds with the fifty days of Easter. Our pious exercises could emphasize Our Lady's participation in the Paschal mystery and in Pentecost with which the Church begins. The pious exercises connected with the month of May can easily highlight the earthly role played by the glorified Queen of Heaven, here and now, in the celebration of the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist. The following practices which are recommended by the Magisterium are offered as suggestions for honouring Our Lady ...
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    Stained glass depicting the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus

    Devotion to Mary

    The Blessed Virgin Mary is the Mother of the Church and therefore the example, as well as the guide and inspiration, of everyone who, in and through the Church, seeks to be the servant of God and man and the obedient agent of the promptings of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit, as Pope Leo XIII reminded us, is the soul of the Church: All the activity and service of the members of the Church, beginning with the supreme participation of the Blessed Mother in the work of the Church, is vivified by the Holy Spirit as the body, in all ...
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    Month-Of-Mary

    May dedicated to Our Lady Mary

    The month of May is the "month which the piety of the faithful has especially dedicated to Our Blessed Lady," and it is the occasion for a "moving tribute of faith and love which Catholics in every part of the world pray to the Queen of Heaven. During this month Christians, both in church and in the privacy of the home, offer up to Mary from their hearts an especially fervent and loving homage of prayer and veneration. In this month, too, the benefits of God's mercy come down to us from her throne in greater abundance" (Paul VI: Encyclical ...
    Read more here

    Pastoral Letter from Bishop Philip 08-06-2021

    Pastoral Letter from Bishop Philip 08-06-2021

    Bishop Philip writes... 8th June 2021 This last Sunday, Corpus Christi, I published a Pastoral Letter to be read at all Masses across the Diocese. It’s an invitation to undertake the Year of the Eucharist. Click on the picture for the video recording. You can read it here. My dear ...
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    The Eucharist

    Blog Topic: The Eucharist is ‘the School of True Love for Us’

    pentecost

    Happy Birthday to Our Catholic Church – Pentecost

    World Communications Day 2021 is on May 16th

    World Communications Day 2021 is on May 16th

     

    Missio Red Boxes

    Thank You so much for all the people of good will and merciful hearts, who – even in this difficult time continue to support missionaries around the world through their red boxes support. In 2020 our Parish raised over £1400, which was absolutely amazing.

    THIS is a time to bring your red boxes to be emptied again. Please, bring them to the sacristy or pass to our Dear Denis, who is an ambassador of this deed of mercy in our Parish. Thank You so much for your generosity.

     

     

    OFFERTORY: Thank you for last Sunday’s Collection.

    Electronic offertory: If you have not managed to set up your electronic giving yet, please can you do so as soon as possible.
    The Parish Bank Account details are: Account Name (Lloyd’s Bank’): PRCDTR Our Lady of Lourdes’ & St Swithun Church Sort Code: 30-93-04; parish Account no: 01730453.

    Financial assistance: If you are able to increase your usual weekly offering (during this time of uncertainty) it will be a huge help to the parish. Even the slightest increase will be a help – THANK YOU!

    These weeks of lockdown are difficult for all of us, and we are particularly mindful of those whose jobs and lives are put on hold because of the pandemic. We want to be here for you during these difficult times. Even so, the Church in our Diocese of Portsmouth, its clergy, parishes and schools, is entirely dependent upon your generous charity. So that we can continue to provide the Liturgy of the Lord and our works, both centrally and from our parishes to the local community, I kindly ask all of the faithful who are able to do so, to continue their generous regular-giving to the Diocese and to their parish churches, which would otherwise lose vital income. You can donate via the button on the Parish website – or here 

    Standing Order and  other useful Information

     Download Standing Order Form (PDF)

    These are difficult times and if you are needing anything from me please message me on Facebook book, email or telephone the office. 02392828305

    Lloyds Bank : sort code 30-93-04 ; Account number 01730453 (Cheques mad payable to: PRCDTR Our Lady & St. Swithun)

    with Blessings Father Marcin Drabik

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    Download Newsletter PDF -23-05-2021

    WE’RE SO EXCITED TO SHARE THIS NEWS WITH YOU AND DON’T FORGET USE THE CONTACT FORMS ON OUR WEBSITE !

    Download this newsletter in printer-friendly PDF format to read later.

    Download this week’s Newsletter here: Newsletter: 23rd May 2021 – Pentecost Sunday B

    Calendars

      Daily Services Calendars for all times

      Saints Calendar to learn about this weeks Saints

      Daily Reading Calendar for the prayers this week

      View All of our Parish Events Here

    PARISH CONTACTS

    • PARISH PRIEST: Father Marcin Drabik tel: 02392 828305 email: mdrabik@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk 
    • Address: 105 Waverley Road, Southsea, PO5 2PL;
    • Safeguarding Minister: Teresa Rowe  tel: 023 92 818295;
    • Safeguarding Minister: Anne Worden  tel: 023 92 817586;
    • Parish Office Hours: Tues, Thurs, 8.00am –12.30pm. tel: 02392 828 305
      email: southseaparish@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

    HELP US SHARE THE GOOD NEWS!

    Let people know and come join in the conversation online!
    LIKE/SHARE our Facebook Page: St Swithuns Page
    FOLLOW us on Twitter: @FrMarcinD
    @St_swithun

    “CAN-DO CHRISTIANS” A MESSAGE FROM FATHER MARCIN

    Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Dear Friends: I would like to share with You some things which are about our Parish and for our Parish.  I’m absolutely sure, that You have noticed how many things already happen in our Parish to help in our spiritual grow to love God more and more in His Word to us, in His Sacraments for us (which is His real presence among us). We also go out to meet those who still searching for God, or who were not so lucky to have personal contact with Jesus Christ.

     

    NEW SECTION ON OUR WEBSITE IF YOU JUST WANT TO SPEND SOME SPECIAL TIME WITH GOD

      Read More on our Renewal Pages here

    Updated Coronavirus Safety Guidelines

    Track and trace: code. Please use the QR Code (on the back of the church). Simply hold your camera app over the code and follow the instructions. This would be helpful should a local outbreak of the virus be detected.
    Ventilation:In order for us to comply with regulations and therefore be considered a ‘COVID secure environment’ the doors must be left open. As the temperature drops in the weeks ahead it will be important to wrap-up warm for Mass! Please do bear this in mind.

    WELCOME BACK! To those who wish to return to Mass at a time when our Church is not crowded, it is recommended to come to the VIGIL MASS of SUNDAY – on Saturdays at 6.00PM or on SUNDAYS at 8.30AM when there is plenty of room in the body of the Church. Members of the congregation are well spaced out. Now that we have to wear masks, this is an additional precaution which prevents others being infected; however, some people have medical exemption. Sanitising hands on entry lessens the possibility of the virus being spread by touching surfaces.

    There are signs on the floor indicating two metres so that we do not crowd up on one another.

    TEST & TRACE: We will also take a contact number for all attendees. These details will be destroyed after 21 days according to data management regulations. Anyone is free to decline and still attend Mass but we encourage you to take part.

    The Diocese has updated its Coronavirus guidance in the light of the latest Government instructions issued on 14th September 2020. There is a little more flexibility in some areas than previously, for example, in ministry to the sick and housebound, although great care must still be taken. The use of halls and the possibility of reinstating some group meetings are covered. There is limited scope for general socialising because the ‘Rule of 6’ has been imposed. Our churches are very COVID-safe, provided everyone is following the proper safety procedures. Our thanks as ever to clergy and parishioners who are working hard at this. One area, however, that remains a challenge is having sufficient volunteers (e.g. stewards and cleaners) to assist. If you are hale and hearty, please do offer to help– your assistance will enable many more people to return to Mass, thereby bringing them closer to Jesus Christ through His Church. Let us all pray for a speedy end to the pandemic.

    Please remember the advice is to wear a mask inside closed areas and churches.

    Click this link for any questions you might have found on our website.

    Newsletter: 16th May 2021 – 7th Sunday of Easter B

    My Dearest Parishioners, Visitors, Friends – Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ

    One unusual feature in the Gospel according to John is that it uses the term “disciples” rather than “apostles”. Sometimes priests and ministers use these two words interchangeably as if they mean the same thing. In reality, they have very different definitions.

    Jesus’ followers often addressed Him as “Rabbi”, a word that means “teacher”. The word “disciple” comes from a Greek word that means “student”. Some rabbis taught Jewish boys how to read and write in the synagogue schools, but other rabbis taught men how to be rabbis. In either case, the rabbi’s students were disciples. Therefore, John is correct when he uses this word to describe the twelve men whom Jesus chose to be His close companions because they were His students, training to become rabbis.

    The word “apostle” comes from a Greek word that means “one who is sent”, and it refers to someone who is sent out to deliver a message. Matthew, Mark, and Luke call the twelve men whom Jesus chose to be His close companions “apostles” because Jesus sent them out to proclaim the Gospel message after He taught them privately. In other words, they were disciples or students first and were apostles after they successfully completed their period of instruction.

    It is interesting that we do not find the word “apostle” in the Gospel according to John. The closest John comes to using this word is in today’s reading when Jesus, in His prayer to His heavenly Father, says He “sent” the Twelve out into the world. For John, the true follower of Jesus never stops being a disciple but is always willing to learn more about Jesus and His message.

    What kind of disciples are you? How much time do you spend reading and studying Scripture so Jesus can use you as his apostle in the world today? (Source: Jerome J. Sabatowich, Cycling Through the Gospels)

    REFLECTION

    Introductory Prayer: Lord, I believe in you and all that you have revealed for our salvation. I hope in you because of your overflowing mercy. Every single act of yours on this earth demonstrated your love for us. Your ascent into heaven before the eyes of the Apostles inspires my hope of one day joining you there. I love you and wish you to be the centre of my life.

    Petition: Mary, help me to be an ardent witness to the truth of Christian love.

    1. “So I Sent Them into the World” – Jesus has ascended into heaven. In today’s Gospel, from the Last Supper, he transmits his mission to his apostles — and to each one of us. Just how transcendent is this undertaking which Christ places in our hands? It is nothing less than the eternal salvation of souls. Real, concrete persons’ eternal destinies are linked to our faithfulness to Christ, to our Christian witness. Does not such a responsibility make us tremble in our weakness and sinfulness? How can we hope to live up to such a mission? Yet Christ invites us to share his joy completely. He does not abandon us in his ascension but promises to consecrate us in the Spirit of Truth — the Holy Spirit, the great advocate in our apostolic mission. May we respond in prayer to the Church’s liturgy this week as she prepares us to receive the Holy Spirit on the great feast of Pentecost.

    2. “Consecrate Them in the Truth” – Just who is the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Blessed Trinity, the one who desires to become the gentle guest and consoler of our soul? The Holy Spirit is the personal love of the Father and Son for each other. As the liturgy’s second reading reminds us, “God is love” (1 John 4:16). Only the Holy Spirit can enable us to undergo the journey of purifying and disciplining “eros” (human love or the love of attraction – “ascending love”), so that it can be healed and restored to its true grandeur (cf. Deus Caritas Est, nos. 4-5). If we follow this ascetic path of renunciation, then eros will in the end merge with “agape” (Christian love or love which seeks only the good of the other – “descending love”) (cf. no. 7). The love of agape, forged within us by the Holy Spirit, will impel us to seek the good of souls without counting the cost.

    3. “And I Consecrate Myself for Them” – How does Christ consecrate himself? He does so precisely in his passion and cross. That is why Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta’s saying is ever valid: “Love, to be true love, has to hurt.” Pope-Emeritus Benedict XVI directly confronted the question of the renunciation demanded by true love. He asks if the Church doesn’t spoil love. “Doesn’t the Church, with all her commandments and prohibitions, turn to bitterness the most precious thing in life?” (Deus Caritas Est, no. 3). The answer, of course, is a resounding “No!” Only the asceticism of Christian chastity purifies and disciplines love so that it rises above the sensual sphere to become a truly personal act of self-giving. It is no coincidence that only natural family planning requires continence, whereas contraception does not. Are we willing to be hated by the world in standing up for this most fundamental of the Church’s teachings to preserve authentic love?

    Conversation with Christ: Holy Spirit, you are the source of love in my life because you are love itself. Help me to win all the graces for souls that Christ is asking of me by consecrating myself in truth — the truth of the cross, renunciation and purification — to live true love in self-giving, without counting the cost.

    Resolution: I will both practice and defend the Church’s teaching on chastity, especially natural family planning, in order to live authentic Christian love.

    with Blessings and prayerful best wishes, Father Marcin Drabik

     

    Service Times from Saturday May 16th 2021  until May 23rd 2021 – All Services will also be streamlined on-line
  • Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/Stswithuns.org.uk/
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    Download this week's Newsletter here: Newsletter: 16th May 2021 - 7th Sunday of Easter B
    DateLocationlinks to readings and Services
    Sunday 16th May 2021 7th Sunday of Easter B
    		St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 16-05-2021
    Monday 17th May 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 17-05-2021
    Tuesday 18th May 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 18-05-2021
    Wednesday 19th May 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 19-05-2021
    Thursday 20th May 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 20-05-2021
    Friday 21st May 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 21-05-2021
    Saturday 22nd May 2021St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 22-05-2021
    Sunday 23rd May 2021 Pentecost Sunday
    		St Swithuns Click Link for Service details for today 23-05-2021

     

     

     Read today’s Readiings here

    Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 16-05-2021

    The Ascension?! A fun Catholic reflection for kids based on the readings for the Solemnity of the Ascension, cycle B. (Catholic Kids Media) A fun Catholic reflection for kids based on the readings for the 6th Sunday of Easter, cycle B. Support this channel on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/catholickidsm...​ Or on Venmo: @catholickidsmedia Catholic Kids Media Children In Sunday’s Gospel,  John 17:11-19, Jesus  tells us , although he is going back to his father , he will not leave us orphans. He says he will always be with us and when he comes back to us , our hearts will be full of joy. Last  Thursday , we celebrated the Ascension of the Lord, when Jesus was taken to heaven to sit at God’s right hand. Jesus had completed his mission on earth and returned to his Father again. But this was not the end of his mission; before Jesus returned to Heaven, ...
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    Thoughts on Today's Gospel and Readings for the Week - 16-05-2021

    Thoughts on Today’s Gospel and Readings for the Week – 16-05-2021

    In the Gospel of John, chapter 15, Jesus teaches us that we must love one another. To learn more about this reading from John, and the connection between the readings at Mass, subscribe today to The Mass Readings Explained: Check out this video with Dr. Brant Pitre to learn more about this topic and the implications of what Jesus is teaching. To learn more about this video series, The Mass Readings Explained, and the Gospel reading, Responsorial Psalm, and the Old Testament reading for this Sunday's Mass, subscribe today to The Mass Readings Explained: Background on the Gospel Reading - John 17:11b-19 Jesus prays for his disciples. On the seventh Sunday of Easter, we always read from the seventeenth chapter of John's Gospel. This chapter of John's Gospel comes at the conclusion of Jesus' farewell discourse delivered to the disciples at the Last Supper. This entire chapter is a prayer by ...
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    Dr. Scott Hahn - Gospel Reflections 16-05-2021

    Dr. Scott Hahn – Gospel Reflections 16-05-2021

    The Kingdom Remains: Scott Hahn Reflects on the Seventh Sunday of Easter (In dioceses where Ascension is celebrated on Sunday, see the reflection for The Ascension of the Lord.) Today’s First Reading begins by giving us a time frame—the events take place during the days between Christ’s Ascension and Pentecost. We’re at the same point in our liturgical year. On Thursday we celebrated His being taken up in glory, and next Sunday we will celebrate His sending of the Spirit upon the Church. Jesus’ prayer in the Gospel today also captures the mood of departure and the anticipation. He is telling us today how it will be when He is no longer in the world. By His Ascension, the Lord has established His throne in heaven, as we sing in today’s Psalm. His kingdom is His Church, which continues His mission on earth. Jesus fashioned His kingdom as a new Jerusalem ...
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    Commentary on John 17:11-19

    Commentary on John 17:11-19

    Today Jesus continues his prayer for his disciples. He prays for their continued loyalty to the gospel message and for unity among them.  He has kept them true to his name. One was lost, although that was foreseen from all time. They have accepted the message of Jesus and, because of that, they will be hated by the world as Jesus himself was hated.  Because, like Jesus, they do not identify with the world and its values and priorities. At the same time, Jesus makes it very clear that he is not asking that they be removed from the world’s environment, only that they be protected from its evil influences.  It is only by being in the world that they will be able to communicate the Gospel message.  Armed with truth, with the integrity of Jesus himself, he is sending them into the midst of the world. That is where ...
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    Holy Spirit Novena Prayers – May 2021

    WE ARE ALL VERY WELCOME – to experience our preparation for another Birthday of The One, Holy, Catholic & Apostolic Church, and we pray for the sanctification of this world and ours. Every day will be led by our special people of good will, in a specific subject based on the SYMBOLS of THE HOLY SPIRIT. In approx. 45 minutes we will listen to a short conference, praise the Lord by special hymns, spontaneous prayers of the intercessions, texts ...
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    Bishop Philip Update – The Sacrament of Confirmation May 23rd 2021

    Update from Bishop  Philip 15/05/2021 In two weeks’ time, we have the great feast of Pentecost and I have prepared a Message to all the candidates who on that day are going to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. It will be read at the Liturgy. Please pray for all our candidates. Confirmation is always a wonderful moment in the life of a young person and also a wonderful moment in the life of the Diocese. Last year, we had ...
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    World Communications Day 2021 is on May 16th

    World Communications Day was established by Pope Paul VI in 1967 as an annual celebration that encourages us to reflect on the opportunities and challenges that the modern means of social communication afford the Church to communicate the gospel message. This year Pope Francis focuses on “That you may tell your children and grandchildren” (Ex 10:2)

    Theme  “Come and See” (John 1:46) Communicating by Encountering People as They Are

    The theme for the 2021 World Day of Social Communications, chosen ...
    Read more here

    Rosary Day for Schools and Young People – Monday 24th May

    Bishop Philip writes... Antonia Moffat from the National Shrine of Our Lady at Walsingham draws our attention to a special day of prayer for our young people on Monday 24th May, the Feast of Mary, Mother of the Church... Pope Francis is encouraging Catholics to pray the Rosary in their family homes during the month of May, especially when the Pandemic is making us aware of the value of our families and ...
    Read more here

    Laudato Si’ Week May 16th to May 25th 2021 – A Call to Change

    This week the Laudato Si network encourage everyone to reflect and response to the Call to Change. “The urgent challenge to protect our common home includes a concern to bring the whole human family together to seek a sustainable and integral development for we know that things can change” #LS13 This year’s Laudato Si’ Week runs from 16th - 25th May and will be celebrated throughout the global Church with events for the Special Laudato Si’ Anniversary Year.  A celebration ...
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    Diocese of Portsmouth - Year of the Eucharist begins

    Diocese of Portsmouth – Year of the Eucharist begins

    In our Diocese of Portsmouth, we will begin a Year of the Eucharist starting on the Feast of Corpus Christi, 6th June 2021. As you know, in these years 2020 to 2022, I am inviting everyone in the Diocese to undertake by God’s grace a period of intense, spiritual renewal. The purpose ultimately is to help us realise our diocesan ambition of Bringing People Closer to Jesus Christ through His Church. We are always totally dependent on God and His grace and on the gifts of the Holy Spirit He pours out upon us through the Holy Eucharist. In other words, we ...
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    Bob Garvey - Praying and Singing Hymns

    Bob Garvey – Praying and Singing Hymns

    “I will send you the Spirit of truth” (John 16:7). Some years ago there was an award-winning movie entitled, “Cool Hand Luke.” In it the “hero,” Luke, was imprisoned and there suffered all kinds of torture in an attempt to break his will. No matter what the guards did to him, Luke always made a comeback. At a moment when it seemed Luke’s will was broken, he surprised everyone and pulled off a final escape. Today we meet two men who surpassed “Cool Hand Luke” in their courage and resolve (Acts 16:22-36). “The crowd in Philippi joined in the attack ...
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    Webinar June 2nd - Renewing the Church with Father Mike Schmitz

    Webinar June 2nd – Renewing the Church with Father Mike Schmitz

    Join the Divine Renovation Team on Wednesday 2nd June at 5pm British Summer Time for a Webinar on the Holy Spirit’s Role in Renewing the Church with Father Mike Schmitz There is a lot of uncertainty swirling around what to expect of the post-pandemic Church. There is one certainty to give us hope and confidence and that is the role of the Holy Spirit in the renewal of the Church. From the moment Jesus breathed the Holy Spirit upon the apostles to this exact moment in time, the Spirit desires renewal, and that renewal starts in our own hearts first. Join Matt Regitz and ...
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    Philip Kosloski - Why Matthias was chosen to replace Judas as an apostle.

    Philip Kosloski – Why Matthias was chosen to replace Judas as an apostle.

    There was a particular set of criteria that qualified Matthias to be the next apostle. In the Acts of the Apostles, St. Peter discusses who should replace Judas. He then begins to go through a set of criteria before praying to God for guidance, ultimately choosing Matthias. In a homily of St. John Chrysostom that is featured in the Church’s Office of Readings, we learn there were very specific requirements that the replacement needed to meet before they were even considered. Lived in our company So, he goes on, we must choose from those men who lived in our company ...
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    Fr Robert McTeigue - 7 Spiritual deficiencies we need to overcome for community

    Fr Robert McTeigue – 7 Spiritual deficiencies we need to overcome for community

    We are inclined to agree Christian community is a good thing. But are we really ready to be a part of one? Could you imagine a university professor saying the following? Not only do I know nothing about the topic, I’ve never even taught a course on it! Well, I’ve been a professor for a long time, and although I’ve never heard a professor say that in so many words, I would not have to strain to imagine a colleague saying something like that. People who are in the business of knowing and teaching must have confidence in their ability ...
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    Fr Mike Schmitz Discover the Power of the Rosary!

    The Often Misunderstood Prayer of the Church We've all gotten the question "Why do you pray to Mary? Isn't prayer reserved for God alone?" Or maybe you have this question yourself. We hope to clear up some misunderstanding or confusion, and encourage you to consider getting to know your mother, Mary. Our worship is directed to God alone. But, just as we can and do ask others to pray for us in our need. So, too, we ask Mary to pray for us. No one has opened themselves up more to the Love of God or to His Word than ...
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    Bishops encourage Catholics to place Sunday Mass at the heart of their post-pandemic lives

    Bishops encourage Catholics to place Sunday Mass at the heart of their post-pandemic lives

    The Catholic Bishops of England and Wales have issued a reflection on post-pandemic recovery and the challenges faced by the Church in encouraging people back to the Church and her Sacraments. The Bishops met for their Spring plenary meeting from 19 – 22 April 2021. In a reflection titled The Day of the Lord, the Bishops also praise families, parish communities and those who have worked tirelessly in hospitals, care homes, schools and prisons during these challenging times of ill-health, grief and isolation. The Bishops salute the leadership of our priests and also express gratitude for the ‘immense efforts’ of those ...
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    Pope urges Catholics to pray Rosary in May for end to Covid-19 pandemic

    Pope urges Catholics to pray Rosary in May for end to Covid-19 pandemic

    Pope Francis invites Catholics and Marian Shrines around the world to dedicate the month of May to a marathon of prayer for an end to the Covid-19 pandemic Catholics across the globe are encouraged to dedicate the Marian month of May to praying for an end to the pandemic. The initiative, behind which the Pope has thrown his support, involves 30 Marian Shrines from various parts of the world. It takes place under the theme “The whole Church was fervently praying to God,” which recalls a verse in the Book of Acts (12:5). Prayer initiative “The initiative will involve all ...
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    Month-Of-Mary

    May dedicated to Our Lady Mary

    The month of May is the "month which the piety of the faithful has especially dedicated to Our Blessed Lady," and it is the occasion for a "moving tribute of faith and love which Catholics in every part of the world pray to the Queen of Heaven. During this month Christians, both in church and in the privacy of the home, offer up to Mary from their hearts an especially fervent and loving homage of prayer and veneration. In this month, too, the benefits of God's mercy come down to us from her throne in greater abundance" (Paul VI: Encyclical ...
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    Oaklands Catholic School and Sixth Form College Teacher of Mathematics

    Start Date – Permanent, Full Time April or September 2021

    The Governors are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic and committed teacher to join our hardworking, highly experienced and supportive Maths Team.
    The Governors are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic and committed teacher to join our hardworking, highly experienced and supportive Science Team.
    For both Applicant Information Packs please visit our website: Vacancies – Oaklands Catholic School and Sixth Form College For both positions: Closing Date: Friday 26th March, 12.00noon Proposed Interviews: Week beginning Monday 29th March Please note that the school reserves the right to appoint at any point during the recruitment process.

    M Quinn – Headteacher

    Want to help make a difference? – Government’s Community Sponsorship scheme

    We are a small group of people, mainly from Cathedral parish, exploring how we can bring a refugee family to Portsmouth under the Government’s Community Sponsorship scheme. We are looking for volunteers to work with us and pray there will be a good response from all parishes in the Portsmouth Pastoral Area. In particular we are looking for people with skills and knowledge of financial management, fundraising, legal, IT, benefits, housing, language support, translation or befriending, but any help will be gratefully considered.

    We are working with Reset (see resetuk.org) a very supportive organisation able to give some training, also there are a number of other Pastoral Areas around the Diocese with experience of this already – so please, if you would like to find out more about helping to make an enormous difference to a family living in dreadful and dangerous circumstances.

    Please get in touch with Sheila Daly on 07923841668 or mindy4161922@gmail.com

     

    Keep up with what’s Happening in our Parish over this coming Year

    Scroll through to see all the events happening from the 16th May 2021 till the 31st May 2021

    Or Go to our Parish Events Diary and search a specific date or event  here https://stswithuns.org.uk/events/

    THIS WEEK FOR ALL:  Through: https://www.facebook.com/Stswithuns.org.uk

    Facebook Profile – in English (St Swithuns RC Church Southsea): ‘A GLASS OF WINE’ with Fr Marcin – Q&A of The Catholic Faith on:

    TUESDAY at 8.00pm – SUBJECT: ‘Come, Holy Spirit, Come – A need and how to cultivate the gifts of the Holy Spirit in us’;
    THURSDAY at 8.00pm – SUBJECT: ‘Follow the path of holiness – we are called to accept the gift of humanity;

    Facebook Profile –in Polish (St Swithuns RC Kościół Southsea): ‘MORNING COFFEE WITH MYSTICS’ brewed by Fr Marcin on: 

    ‘MORNING COFFEE WITH MYSTICS’ brewed by Fr Marcin on: TUESDAY at 11.15am;

    Children Pray together via our Zoom Online Catholic School:

    Your children can join us for our Zoom online Catholic School  (PLEASE NOT: REGISTRATION IS NEED – see the form below)

    URGENT APPEAL - FOOD PARCELS FOR OUR HOMELESS NEEDED IN PORTSMOUTH

    URGENT APPEAL – FOOD PARCELS FOR OUR HOMELESS NEEDED IN PORTSMOUTH

    Dear Friends, as You know – we try our best to help homeless (and the poor) in many ways. One of them, very important and popular is providing the lunch on Sundays, with an incredible generosity and sacrifice from St Vincent de Paul’s members of our Parish. We need your help in this difficult times, to make by yourself 45 packed lunches or to provide us with the products or donation, so we can make it by ourselves. Each packed lunch includes: - 2 sandwiches; - At least 1 fruit; - Something to drink (a juice, water) - Something sweet ...
    Read more here
    Ascent Group - Events 2021 Timetable

    Ascent Group – Events 2021 Timetable

    Dear Friends May you be blessed with a happy and hopeful New Year. Although we are still in the midst of illness and restrictions, there are signs of hope as vaccines begin to be rolled out. We thank God for the answers to prayers made right at the beginning of the pandemic, that vaccines would be developed quickly; and we continue to pray for those suffering and for an end to the global crisis. ADoRE monthly sessions will continue online for the foreseable future, and we are encouraged by many positive reactions already to our 2021 programme plans - see below ...
    Read more here
    going into hospital

    GOING INTO HOSPITAL?

    GOING INTO HOSPITAL? Due to strict data protection rules it is essential on entering hospital to indicate your details or those of your relative to be passed on to the Catholic Chaplain. Also state that you or your relative would like the Catholic Chaplain to visit you. Chaplains visit the wards during the week and provide an on-call service in case of emergency ...
    Read more here

     

    CLICK HERE – NEW SECTION: LINK TO THE LATEST PORTSMOUTH DIOCESE E_NEWSLETTER

    UPDATE ON FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PROGRAMME FOR THIS NEW YEAR 2021

    Dear First Communion Parents –  First Communion sessions for Children & Parents – THIS Tuesday & Friday at 5.30PM through ‘ZOOM’. These will be conducted through ‘ZOOM’ while the pandemic continues.. Please, check yours emails or Facebook profiles on Tuesday and Friday to find a link to join our obligatory meeting. Please note these meetings are essential for Children & Parents.

    Update on the Sacrament of Confirmation :

    We hope, very much, for the Confirmation sessions to begin in May, to finish our journey to this Sacrament, which was suddenly stopped last year because pandemic. We are obviously having to keep rearranging our plans due to COVID developments. Please keep an eye on the newsletter for further information.(The Sacrament of Confirmation will be celebrated in our Parish, at St Swithun’s church on the Pentecost Sunday 23rd May 2021, at 3.00pm.

    UPDATE ON BAPTISM REQUESTS 

    • If you need a copy of Baptism certificate please contact the Parish Office.
    • If you want to get someone baptised then feel free to make an appointment with father Marcin.

    For those who would like to arrange a Baptism for their child:

    – Please collect a Baptism Application Form from the porch of the church (or found on the Parish Website);
    – Read carefully what is expected form the Parents and Godparents of a child for this Sacrament;
    – Contact Parish Priest to arrange the very first meeting of getting now each other and to make the individual decision about the process of the preparation;

    Prayer of the Month – May 2021

    Prayer of the Month – Pope Francis Prayer Intentions May 2021 – Universal intention – The world of finance

    Pope’s Intention (universal):

    We pray that those in charge of finance will work with governments to regulate the financial sphere and protect citizens from its dangers.

    Daily Offering Prayer

    Here I am Lord; words many have said to you.
    Here I am, is what you say to me at the beginning of the day.
    Thank you for love, grace and protection in life.
    In return I offer you the prayer, joys, loves, sufferings and hopes of this day.
    May all I do and say be for your greater glory.
    I pray this with our Lady in this month of May,
    Hail Mary……..

    With Jesus in the Night

    Thanks Lord God for this day
    For all that was good in it.
    Thanks for help in getting through difficulties.
    Keep safe and well in your love all I care for, near and far.
    Look after with love all who have no place to rest tonight
    Or who go to rest hungry.
    May I help them as best I can tomorrow.
    Hail Mary…

    Pray for those of our Own Parish:

    Please pray for those who are ill especially: Caroline Bennett, Robert & Eileen Steward, Louie Muscat, Tony & Julie Duffy, Brian Girling, Shelia Langford; Catherine Morgan, Pam Brown Ward, for all the children suffering and their poor families with them Aidan Molloy, David Shields, Bob Guy, Ms Sini Chacko, Kathleen & Kevin Jones, Heidi Badnell, Rosemary Devonald, Dominic, Carol Langsford, Patricia Ward, Stan Whitnell, Patrick McCreesh, Eddie Coppani, Tony Denny, Betty Foster, Bobby, Eileen Stewart, Joan Smith, John Williams, Margaret Bager, Fred Vuksani, Tom & Lily, Greta Kemp, Magda K, Mary Wallis, Micheline Thompson, Pat Needham, Margaret Badger, Anne Sullivan, Josephine Butler.

    And all whose anniversaries occur at this time: 16th May 2021:  Diana Clark, David Best,Eileen Inkpen, Mary Hehir, Jo Wheeler, Shirley Parker, Dennis William Johnson, Carmen Muscat, Simon Paul Urwin, Mary Denny, Sheila Merrett, George Cowley, Bernard Donaghy, Bridget Nolan, Terry Kendal, William Lynch, Isabella Graham, Michael Collins, Anne McGowan, Wanda Gant, Suzanne Severs, Rosanna Schofield, Winifred Tripp, Catherine Henney, Johanna Davis, Leonard Hayles, Davina Cameron, Charles Cummins, Frank Hilton, Charles William Rolph, Patrick John Tyrrell, William Deary, Frances Barrett, Albert Brain, Jane Lattan, Gladys Whittle, Mary Young, May Flood, Miriam Keane, Ellen Gray, Janice Margaret Johnson, Archbishop John Henry King, William Smith, Eileen Orme, Herbert Diemer, Ann Mary Froggatt, Mary Patricia Tovey, Christine Ann Hogan (Ann), Bridget Hanvery, Florence Ellen Healey, Annie Evison, Albert Mensell, Elizabeth Mary Hawkins, Nora Parker, Lugrezia (Grace) Veronica Tynan, James Madigan, William Morgan, David Calder, Ellen Green, Percy Spicer, Hilda Clifton, Anne Woolfe, James Patrick Madigan, John Stephen Feeley, John Young (Frank), Ethel Penwell, Florence Casey, Alice Whiles, Mary Diver, Eileen Field, Mary Shute, Antoni Brown, Beatrice McIver, Hilda Lowe and Christina Perseltic Carter., ,Lizzie and Patrick McSharry ,Gemma Litchfield , Ivy Rouse , Stan Pickering and Jozef Michalczuk

    May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed through the Mercy of God rest in peace. Amen 

     Community Pray:

    House of Prayer Portsmouth have been praying for the city and feel that God is asking for the churches in the city to prayer walk their boundaries. We would like to invite you as a congregation to walk the boundary of your parish to pray God’s blessing and bring hope, healing and awakening to the area. The Holy Rosary is absolutely perfect for this initiative. You can join the Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/937798273059418/

     

    Litany of Loreto

    Ave Maria The Litany of the Blessed Virgin–also called the Litany of Loreto–is one of the many Marian litanies, or praises of Mary, composed during the Middle Ages. The place of honour it now holds, in the life of the Church, is due its faithful use at the shrine of the Holy House at Loreto, which, according to tradition, was the small cottage-like home where the Holy Family had lived and which was miraculously transported by angels, in 1291, from the Holy Land to its present location in Loreto. It was definitely recommended by Pope Clement VII and approved by ...
    Read more here
    The Brown Scapular

    The Brown Scapular – The full promise of Our Lady of Mount Carmel

    The Brown Scapular and other Scapulars The full promise of Our Lady of Mount Carmel to Saint Simon Stock July 16, 1251 “Accept this Scapular. It shall be a sign of salvation, a protection in danger and a pledge of peace. Whosoever dies clothed in this Scapular shall not suffer eternal fire.” Such is the extraordinary promise Our Lady makes to those who wear Her Brown Scapular. And this wonderful promise makes the Scapular the most powerful sacramental Heaven’s mercy has given us. Who could doubt Our Lady’s promise, as not to wear, with profoundest gratitude and reverence, this abbreviated ...
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    Holy Rosary

    Victory Through The Rosary

    “You will be granted all you ask of me by recitation of the rosary.” Also called the Psalter of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Rosary is one of the most excellent prayers to the Mother of God. Thus, "the Roman Pontiffs have repeatedly exhorted the faithful to the frequent recitation of this biblically inspired prayer which is centred on contemplation of the salvific events of Christ's life, and their close association with the Virgin Mother." Our Lady’s Action in History and Today Since the time of Saint Dominic, the Most Holy Rosary has been the weapon by which Our Lady has ...
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    Miraculous Medal

    The Miracle of the Miraculous Medal

    These are witnesses of faith and a sign of veneration of the Holy Mother of God, as well as of trust in her maternal protection. The Church blesses such objects of Marian devotion in the belief that "they help to remind the faithful of the love of God, and to increase trust in the Blessed Virgin Mary." The Miracle of the Miraculous Medal: Designed and Revealed by the Blessed Virgin The Medal of the Immaculate Conception, popularly known as the Miraculous Medal, is unique among all medals. The Miraculous Medal was created in response to a request from the Blessed Virgin Mary, ...
    Read more here

    The Regina Coeli

    The authorship of the "Regina Caeli" being unknown, legend says the St. Gregory the Great (d. 604) heard the first three lines chanted by angels on a certain Easter morning in Rome while he walked barefoot in a great religious procession and that the saint thereupon added the fourth line: "Ora pro nobis Deum. Alleluia." — Fr. Gant, moderator, Catholic News The opening words of the Eastertide anthem of the Blessed Virgin, the recitation of which is prescribed from Compline of Holy Saturday until Afternoon Prayer of the Saturday after Pentecost inclusively. Substitute this prayer for the Angelus during the ...
    Read more here
    A Time of Grace

    A Time of Grace

    It is a centuries-old custom of Catholics to dedicate the month of May to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The month of May is always part of the Easter season, the fifty days we celebrate in the liturgy the Resurrection of Our Lord, a time also of awaiting the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The celebration of May as a Marian month fits well with the liturgical celebrations of Easter and Pentecost as we recall Mary’s great joy in her Son’s victory over death as well as her presence with the apostles in the upper room prayerfully awaiting the ...
    Read more here
    Mary and the Popes

    Mary and the Popes

    The Month of Mary and the Popes The pious practice of honouring Mary during the month of May has been especially recommended by the Popes. Pius XII made frequent reference to it and in his great Encyclical on the Sacred Liturgy (Mediator Dei) characterized it as one of "other exercises of piety which although not strictly belonging to the Sacred Liturgy, are nevertheless of special import and dignity, and may be considered in a certain way to be an addition to the liturgical cult: they have been approved and praised over and over again by the Apostolic See and by ...
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    Feast of The Queenship of Mary 1 Coronation of Mary

    Mary and Our Spiritual Life

    In our observance of the Marian month we should take into account the season of the Liturgical Year which largely corresponds with the fifty days of Easter. Our pious exercises could emphasize Our Lady's participation in the Paschal mystery and in Pentecost with which the Church begins. The pious exercises connected with the month of May can easily highlight the earthly role played by the glorified Queen of Heaven, here and now, in the celebration of the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist. The following practices which are recommended by the Magisterium are offered as suggestions for honouring Our Lady ...
    Read more here
    Stained glass depicting the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus

    Devotion to Mary

    The Blessed Virgin Mary is the Mother of the Church and therefore the example, as well as the guide and inspiration, of everyone who, in and through the Church, seeks to be the servant of God and man and the obedient agent of the promptings of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit, as Pope Leo XIII reminded us, is the soul of the Church: All the activity and service of the members of the Church, beginning with the supreme participation of the Blessed Mother in the work of the Church, is vivified by the Holy Spirit as the body, in all ...
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    Month-Of-Mary

    May dedicated to Our Lady Mary

    The month of May is the "month which the piety of the faithful has especially dedicated to Our Blessed Lady," and it is the occasion for a "moving tribute of faith and love which Catholics in every part of the world pray to the Queen of Heaven. During this month Christians, both in church and in the privacy of the home, offer up to Mary from their hearts an especially fervent and loving homage of prayer and veneration. In this month, too, the benefits of God's mercy come down to us from her throne in greater abundance" (Paul VI: Encyclical ...
    Read more here

    Pastoral Letter from Bishop Philip 08-06-2021

    Pastoral Letter from Bishop Philip 08-06-2021

    Bishop Philip writes... 8th June 2021 This last Sunday, Corpus Christi, I published a Pastoral Letter to be read at all Masses across the Diocese. It’s an invitation to undertake the Year of the Eucharist. Click on the picture for the video recording. You can read it here. My dear ...
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    The Eucharist

    Blog Topic: The Eucharist is ‘the School of True Love for Us’

    pentecost

    Happy Birthday to Our Catholic Church – Pentecost

    World Communications Day 2021 is on May 16th

    World Communications Day 2021 is on May 16th

     

    Missio Red Boxes

    Thank You so much for all the people of good will and merciful hearts, who – even in this difficult time continue to support missionaries around the world through their red boxes support. In 2020 our Parish raised over £1400, which was absolutely amazing.

    THIS is a time to bring your red boxes to be emptied again. Please, bring them to the sacristy or pass to our Dear Denis, who is an ambassador of this deed of mercy in our Parish. Thank You so much for your generosity.

     

     

    OFFERTORY: Thank you for last Sunday’s Collection.

    Electronic offertory: If you have not managed to set up your electronic giving yet, please can you do so as soon as possible.
    The Parish Bank Account details are: Account Name (Lloyd’s Bank’): PRCDTR Our Lady of Lourdes’ & St Swithun Church Sort Code: 30-93-04; parish Account no: 01730453.

    Financial assistance: If you are able to increase your usual weekly offering (during this time of uncertainty) it will be a huge help to the parish. Even the slightest increase will be a help – THANK YOU!

    These weeks of lockdown are difficult for all of us, and we are particularly mindful of those whose jobs and lives are put on hold because of the pandemic. We want to be here for you during these difficult times. Even so, the Church in our Diocese of Portsmouth, its clergy, parishes and schools, is entirely dependent upon your generous charity. So that we can continue to provide the Liturgy of the Lord and our works, both centrally and from our parishes to the local community, I kindly ask all of the faithful who are able to do so, to continue their generous regular-giving to the Diocese and to their parish churches, which would otherwise lose vital income. You can donate via the button on the Parish website – or here 

    Standing Order and  other useful Information

     Download Standing Order Form (PDF)

    These are difficult times and if you are needing anything from me please message me on Facebook book, email or telephone the office. 02392828305

    Lloyds Bank : sort code 30-93-04 ; Account number 01730453 (Cheques mad payable to: PRCDTR Our Lady & St. Swithun)

    with Blessings Father Marcin Drabik

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    Download Newsletter PDF -16-05-2021

    WE’RE SO EXCITED TO SHARE THIS NEWS WITH YOU AND DON’T FORGET USE THE CONTACT FORMS ON OUR WEBSITE !

    Download this newsletter in printer-friendly PDF format to read later.

    Download this week’s Newsletter here: Newsletter: 16th May 2021 – 7th Sunday of Easter B

    Calendars

      Daily Services Calendars for all times

      Saints Calendar to learn about this weeks Saints

      Daily Reading Calendar for the prayers this week

      View All of our Parish Events Here

    PARISH CONTACTS

    • PARISH PRIEST: Father Marcin Drabik tel: 02392 828305 email: mdrabik@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk 
    • Address: 105 Waverley Road, Southsea, PO5 2PL;
    • Safeguarding Minister: Teresa Rowe  tel: 023 92 818295;
    • Safeguarding Minister: Anne Worden  tel: 023 92 817586;
    • Parish Office Hours: Tues, Thurs, 8.00am –12.30pm. tel: 02392 828 305
      email: southseaparish@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

    HELP US SHARE THE GOOD NEWS!

    Let people know and come join in the conversation online!
    LIKE/SHARE our Facebook Page: St Swithuns Page
    FOLLOW us on Twitter: @FrMarcinD
    @St_swithun

    “CAN-DO CHRISTIANS” A MESSAGE FROM FATHER MARCIN

    Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Dear Friends: I would like to share with You some things which are about our Parish and for our Parish.  I’m absolutely sure, that You have noticed how many things already happen in our Parish to help in our spiritual grow to love God more and more in His Word to us, in His Sacraments for us (which is His real presence among us). We also go out to meet those who still searching for God, or who were not so lucky to have personal contact with Jesus Christ.

     

    NEW SECTION ON OUR WEBSITE IF YOU JUST WANT TO SPEND SOME SPECIAL TIME WITH GOD

      Read More on our Renewal Pages here

    Updated Coronavirus Safety Guidelines

    Track and trace: code. Please use the QR Code (on the back of the church). Simply hold your camera app over the code and follow the instructions. This would be helpful should a local outbreak of the virus be detected.
    Ventilation:In order for us to comply with regulations and therefore be considered a ‘COVID secure environment’ the doors must be left open. As the temperature drops in the weeks ahead it will be important to wrap-up warm for Mass! Please do bear this in mind.

    WELCOME BACK! To those who wish to return to Mass at a time when our Church is not crowded, it is recommended to come to the VIGIL MASS of SUNDAY – on Saturdays at 6.00PM or on SUNDAYS at 8.30AM when there is plenty of room in the body of the Church. Members of the congregation are well spaced out. Now that we have to wear masks, this is an additional precaution which prevents others being infected; however, some people have medical exemption. Sanitising hands on entry lessens the possibility of the virus being spread by touching surfaces.

    There are signs on the floor indicating two metres so that we do not crowd up on one another.

    TEST & TRACE: We will also take a contact number for all attendees. These details will be destroyed after 21 days according to data management regulations. Anyone is free to decline and still attend Mass but we encourage you to take part.

    The Diocese has updated its Coronavirus guidance in the light of the latest Government instructions issued on 14th September 2020. There is a little more flexibility in some areas than previously, for example, in ministry to the sick and housebound, although great care must still be taken. The use of halls and the possibility of reinstating some group meetings are covered. There is limited scope for general socialising because the ‘Rule of 6’ has been imposed. Our churches are very COVID-safe, provided everyone is following the proper safety procedures. Our thanks as ever to clergy and parishioners who are working hard at this. One area, however, that remains a challenge is having sufficient volunteers (e.g. stewards and cleaners) to assist. If you are hale and hearty, please do offer to help– your assistance will enable many more people to return to Mass, thereby bringing them closer to Jesus Christ through His Church. Let us all pray for a speedy end to the pandemic.

    Please remember the advice is to wear a mask inside closed areas and churches.

    Click this link for any questions you might have found on our website.


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