Newsletter: 8th December 2019 – Second Sunday of Advent Cycle A

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Download this week’s Newsletter here: Newsletter – Second Sunday of Advent Sunday 8th December 2019 Year A

My sisters and brothers in Christ,

Preparation:

Take a few moments and close your eyes, preparing yourself to listen to what God may be saying to you during this prayer. As you sit with your eyes closed, use these or similar words: “Here I am, Lord. Here I am.” When you are ready, open your eyes and pray.

What is impossible is possible.

Imagine you are walking along a path in a park. It is a beautiful day. The sun is shining in a clear, blue sky. The air is crisp and cool. It is fragrant with the smell of evergreens that are in clusters along the path. You stop to look and listen to what is around you. You hear the sound of the wind as it whispers through the trees. You notice a squirrel as it runs left then right then left, looking for something to take to his nest. You smile. All is good. All is full of life. You feel a part of all that is.

You make your way home and make a cup of tea. Sitting by the fire you think over your morning walk and you pray: My God, thank you for all that surrounds me. I know your presence embraces me, helping me to know you are here. Thank you. You sit in the quiet and begin to doze off. Resting your head on a pillow you fall asleep and dream. In your dream, you are lying under a large tree. Its trunk is enormous and leads up to branches that spread out over a great distance. You look up and begin to see the faces of those you love sitting on the branches of the tree. Who do you see in the tree? Do they see you? What are they doing? Why are they here?

You hear some movement near you. You raise your head and see coming towards you a small child. He is smiling, perhaps laughing. He comes up to you with open arms and wraps them around your neck. “Let’s play,” he says. “I will run and you try to catch me.” His joy makes you laugh. You wonder where this child has come from. Why is he here? You ask him, “But what about all these people in the tree? I don’t want to leave them.” He looks at you with such joy. “It’s OK. They’ll be happy because you’re happy.” As you stand up, he runs off giggling and laughing. You pretend not to be able to catch him. He suddenly stops and jumps into your arms. He kisses your neck and says, “Look. Everyone is laughing so hard the tree is shaking.” You look into his eyes and are overwhelmed with such peace and love that your eyes are brimming with tears. You think, Why am I feeling this way about this little child? He jumps down from your arms and walks towards the tree. You follow him and sit with him under the tree still shaking with laughter. “I love you,” he says. “I’ve always loved you. You are a part of who I am.” He then begins to climb the tree. As he climbs, he greets each person with joy and laughter. He climbs all the way to the top of the tree and stands on the furthest branch. You see standing beside him a wolf and a lamb. Who is this small child? What do you want to say to him as he stands on the top of the tree?

As you look up to him, his words come back to you: You are a part of who I am. What does this mean to you? What does it mean to all those you love who are there with you?

Who are the children in your life that have shown you the face of God? How has God helped to make what you thought impossible, possible? (Is. 11:6)

with Blessings Father Marcin Drabik

Summary of What’s on in Our Parish This Week

You can find more detail of what’s on in our parish this week by checking our events calendar. You will also find more details about the events themselves in our weekly newsletter sections. Here’s a quick summary for this week Go to our Parish Events Diary and search a specific date or event here https://stswithuns.org.uk/events/

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Archbishop Gomez urges special prayers for Pope Francis 50 years as a priest

Four days before Pope Francis celebrates his 83rd birthday Dec. 17, he will celebrate 50 years as a priest — a ministry he sees as being a shepherd who walks with his flock and yearns to find those who are lost. Los Angeles Archbishop José H. Gomez, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, has sent a letter to bishops across the country asking them to encourage parishioners to honor the jubilee during Advent with special prayers and …
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St Swithun’s Catholic Primary School, Southsea – S48 Validation: Good Part 2

St Swithun’s Catholic Primary School, Southsea Taswell Road, Southsea, Hants PO5 2RG

Teachers are committed to delivering RE that is engaging, focused on scripture and offering challenge. The children’s introduction to RE in the early years is strong and final outcomes by the end of Key Stage 2 show good progress has been made. The RE teaching would be further enhanced by the sharing of the stronger practice seen in early years and upper Key Stage 2. • The …
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English bishops say Catholic voters can’t ‘watch from balcony’ during UK election

LECIESTER, United Kingdom – Catholics can’t “watch from the balcony” during the United Kingdom’s Dec. 12 general election, according to the bishops of England and Wales. The election was called by Prime Minister Boris Johnson after he failed to push through his Brexit deal in Parliament and comes just 2 1/2 years after the last vote. It’s the first December election in the UK since 1923. Polls show the ruling Conservative party leading with 42 percent, …
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General Election 2019 – The Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales

The Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales has issued the following statement to guide Catholic voters as they prepare for the General Election: 3rd December 2019 This General Election is profoundly important to the United Kingdom. Catholics cannot simply “watch from the balcony.” Conscious of the common good of every person and our society as a whole, we ask everyone to engage with the election and vote. Honest political activity depends upon integrity. We urge all in public life …
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“PUT the CHRIST into CHRISTMAS” – WHAT DOES ADVENT MEAN?

Advent derives from the Latin adventus meaning ‘arrival’ or ‘approach’. For thousands of years the world waited for the coming of the Messiah to redeem and to save the human race, restoring mankind’s relationship to God. We, too, experience this same longing for the coming of Christ. Spiritually, we long for the coming of Christ into our hearts as the Holy Spirit draws us into ever deepening relationship with Him; we also long for Christ in his Second Coming, …
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Fr. Mike Schmitz – The True Meaning of Advent

What is the best way to prepare for the season of Advent? You’re free to do what you know will help you prepare for Christmas the best. If decorating and so forth does not help you prepare for the coming of Christ, you can be the judge of whether it’s worth doing. Fr. Mike also wants to remind us that Advent is not just about preparing for Christmas. It’s also about preparing for Christ’s Second Coming. One day we will …
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Hymn for Today: Hymn Matt Maher – Glory (Let There Be Peace)

Behind the Song: Matt Maher – Glory (Let There Be Peace) This week’s featured song story comes to us from Matt Maher. We’re excited to share with you the amazing story behind his song “Glory (Let There Be Peace).” Click on the video interview below to hear Matt Maher share the full story and meaning behind this track, and scroll down to listen and read the full lyrics of the song. Singer, songwriter and worship leader Matt Maher has the most popular Christian Christmas song this holiday season. Maher’s “Glory (Let There Be Peace)” was the #1 song on Billboard’s Christian Airplay …
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Heads Up: Scott Hahn Reflects on the Second Sunday of Advent

Kingdom Come: Scott Hahn Reflects on the Second Sunday in Advent

In Christ, God confirms His oath to Israel’s patriarchs, Paul tells us in today’s Epistle. But no longer are God’s promises reserved solely for the children of Abraham. The Gentiles, too, will glorify God for His mercy. Once strangers, in Christ they will be included in “the covenants of promise” (see Ephesians 2:12). John delivers this same message in the Gospel. Once God’s chosen people were hewn from the rock of Abraham (see Isaiah 51:1–2). Now, God will raise up living stones (see 1 Peter 2:5)—children of Abraham born not of flesh and blood but of the Spirit. This is the meaning of the fiery baptism He brings—making us royal heirs of the kingdom of heaven, the Church.

With the first part of Advent focusing on Christ’s Second Coming … we see in Sunday’s Gospel that many pharisees were coming to John the Baptist to be baptised out of fear of judgment not by a change of heart. We too tend to turn to Christ in moments of fear or when we are reminded of our own mortality. Let us prepare ourselves by turning to Christ no matter what our day brings us.

Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 08-12-2019

Children, This coming week is the second week of Advent. Young people in this age group are eager to explore and experiment as they search for their identity. In this Sunday’s Gospel Reading, Matthew 3:1-12 John the Baptist warns us that if we identify with anything sinful, we are in need of repentance. Dear Families Everybody sings “You’d better watch out, you’d better not cry, you’d better not pout, I’m telling you why, Santa Claus is coming to town!” How many of you have heard your parents say, “You better be good, Santa is watching”? Why do we have to be good for Santa – if we are good he will bring us presents! What happens if we are on Santa’s naughty list? Coal, rocks and sticks in our stockings! John the Baptist is a lot like our parents. He keeps telling us to be good because Jesus, not Santa, …
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Thoughts on Today’s Gospel and Readings for the Week – 08-12-2019

Background on the Gospel Reading Gospel Reading Matthew 24:37-44 In this week’s Gospel Reading and next week’s, our Advent preparation for Christmas invites us to consider John the Baptist and his relationship to Jesus. In this week’s Gospel, Matthew describes the work and preaching of John the Baptist. John the Baptist appears in the tradition of the great prophets of Israel, preaching repentance and reform to the people of Israel. In fact, the description of John found in this reading is reminiscent of the description of the prophet Elijah (2 Kings 1:8). In this reading, John directs a particularly pointed call to repentance to the Pharisees and Sadducees, parties within the Jewish community of the first century. John marks the conversion of those who seek him out with a baptism of repentance. Other groups in this period are thought to have practiced ritual washings for similar purposes, and John’s baptism …
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Thank You to all who helped with our Christmas Fair!

Thanksgiving to all who organized, prepared and supported our christmas fair 2019 thank you! Thank you dear altar servers for your dedication. Thank you st nicholas for your reward for them …
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Next Monday 9th December is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception

Next Monday – the Immaculate Conception Next Monday, 9th December we celebrated the transferred c(from 8th this year due to the Second Sunday of Advent) of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary – joint principal patron of our diocese. Did you know that Mary actually did know her child would save the world? In fact, she was saved around forty-seven years before Jesus died. Fr. Mike Schmitz simplifies the complex theology behind the Immaculate Conception in this video. Using a clever analogy or two, he demonstrates how Scripture alludes to the fact that Mary was immaculately conceived, and …
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Our Advent Preparations at St Swithun’s Primary school

As you can imagine, there is much excitement at St Swithun’s Primary school in anticipation of Christmas. Advent is spent preparing for Jesus’ birth in all sorts of ways. The tree is decorated in the hall. The youngest children are off to the panto as well as preparing their nativity. The infant children are busy getting into role as sheep, angels, wise men, the inn keeper, etc., practising their lines, learning the songs and, hopefully, learning to stand and face the audience on the stage. I’m sure that all brings back memories . . . Our choir, as you can …
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Caritas “Open Church” Night Shelter Project

Caritas “Open Church” Night Shelter Project (Please Note: St Swithun’s will be participating in this project as we always do.) Kevin Gallagher, Director of Caritas Portsmouth tells us about another exciting project coming this winter… Walk down any high street, in any city in the UK, and you are guaranteed to see rough sleepers in doorways begging for money. Although it goes without saying that this is a scandal in a country as wealthy as our own, and something which demands government attention, whose heartstrings are not pulled when seeing our fellow sisters and brother living under such conditions? Maybe we are …
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CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY 14th DECEMBER 2019 from 4pm

Christmas Party Save the date!!! The Children’s Christmas Party will be held on 14th December in St. Swithun’s hall from 4 pm. Further details to follow Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ… Here are some helpful notes to all parents attending our Children’s Christmas Party on the 14th December. Please, can you sign up to bring some food and or drinks; You should buy a present for your child/children – (we suggest you spend no more than £5. on each of your children. Would you mind also wrapping your own present(s). On the day, give your present to the VOLUNTEER …
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Year of the Word: Workshops for Readers – St John’s Cathedral

More on the Year of God’s Word The Year of the Bible, called ‘The God who Speaks,’ will be an opportunity for all of us in the Diocese to promote the Bible and renew the place the Word of God at the centre of our Catholic life and faith. It is a national campaign, and soon I will be sending out a brochure to parishes, with more details, ideas, resources, and a timeline. It is up to each parish to decide how best to celebrate this Year of the Word. In our Diocese, the Year will form the first phase …
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14
December
2019

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY 14th DECEMBER 2019 from 4pm

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15
December
2019

Sunday School after 10:15am Mass for all Children and Parents

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16
December
2019

Parish Devotion for December 16th 2019 – Mondays – Month of The Immaculate Conception

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16
December
2019

First Holy Communion Programme – 16-12-2019

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Scroll through to see all the events happening from the 8th December 2019 till the 31st December 2019

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

Ascent Group – Events Nov to Dec 2019

Robert Steward and his wife Eileen are the joint leaders of the Ascent Group (Life Ascending) and it will be our 10th year as such in 2020. There is printed blurb available on the Ascent Groups purpose but sufficient to say that it is a Catholic-Christian Fellowship Group for those in their later years for friendship, fellowship, interesting talks, outings and devotional readings, hymns and prayers. All of our group are pensioners and generally frequent daily mass attendees. The Table below show all our activity for a the rest of this year 2019 Our November the 25th meeting will have …
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Sunday School after 10:15am Mass for all Children and Parents

TO ALL PARENTS AND THEIR CHILDREN FROM 5 TO 12 YEARS OLD Sunday School this year for 2019 – give a chance to your children to enjoy their confidence in their faith. Because our special room will be open very soon, we’ll renew our SUNDAY SCHOOL for the children from 5 to 10 years old. We will start again after half term – on 10th November 2019. We’ll will always meet after The Holy Mass at 10.15am from 11.30am to 12.15pm. So ,after Mass at 10:15am, all the children who would like to participate in this special way of our …
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St Swithun’s Parents and Toddlers Group 2019

Look forward to seeing you next Tuesday Have you pre-school children? Why not come and join our happy Parent and Toddler Group which is held on Tuesday mornings (term time) from 9.15 to 11.15 am. Singing and playing for the children and a cup of tea for you the parent or carer. Look forward to seeing you on Tuesdays. Baby and toddler groups are a great place to meet mums with children your child’s age, and your child can make new friends too. The groups are run by volunteers and provide a great play opportunity for you child and a …
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Worship Together Programme – Healing and Prayer Ministry

On MONDAYS Our Parish has “OUR PRAISE & WORSHIP TIME” together in the church’s hall (from 7.30pm to 9.00pm) – See below for dates and full programme. These will be held in the Presbytery. (105 Waverley Road). The Praise & Worship nights will be held every second week. IT WILL BE OUR PARISH’s ECUMENICAL TIME DURING OUR MONDAY’S EVENING OF WORSHIP, PRAYER AND HEALING It IS THE best time to format a group of people with all the Christian Charisms to share, and to receive; to increase and to deepen. ALL ARE VERY WELCOME!!! . …
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Parish Youth Group & Confirmation Candidates Announcement – Important Dates

With huge joy I would like to announce, that the renovation of the room for our Catholic Youth Club (and for other ministries and activities with the children and teenagers) is almost ready. Our Youth Club will meet every week, on Tuesdays – from 4.00pm to 6.00pm. Meetings Dates to Note: Notes: The solemn opening the room took place after Holy Mass at 10.15am on Sunday 3rd November 2019. And the inauguration of the Catholic Youth Club in our Parish took place on Tuesday the 5th November at 4.00pm – there will take place our first meeting for all the …
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Eucharistic Adoration – New Start Time from 9:00am every Morning

Dear Parishioners, Dear Friends – because we are involved in so many different activities at our Parish, and our ways of The New Evangelisation in this world all the time multiply, I would like to announce that we do increase the Eucharistic Adoration time in the mornings, before the Holy Mass. So, instead of a start at 9.30am, we will start at 9.00am, to be sure that we entrust everything who we are, and everything what do we do in Jesus’ Name, will come from Him, and will be Blessed by the Lord. So, please do not hesitate to step …
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Hear God’s Voice Tuesdays in the Presbytery – St Swithun’s Church

On Tuesdays, from 7.40pm to 9.00pm we are coming back to our SCRIPTURE MEETINGS – ‘HEAR GOD’S VOICE’. All of our meetings are shown in the table below This is a very special and different way to read God’s Word – we continue the journey with St Mark’s Gospel. We ask The Holy Spirit to lead us, to open us for the things which He would like us to notice, to focus on, to put into the action. ALL ARE VERY WELCOME. In the Presbytery – 105 Waverley Road, Southsea. There no registration no checking of lists. It’s a friendly …
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A VERY GOOD WAY FOR THE ADVENT’s RETREAT

Full English audio version of the film has been released in 800 cinemas across the US on the 28th of October. Finished on the 2nd place on American box office. On the 18th November was shown on 131 screens across the UK and Ireland hitting 5th place in box office chart leaving many cinemas without empty seats.

Returning to cinemas by popular demand – on the December 10th in the UK Original locations + 50 new cinemas

“Love and Mercy: Faustina”, a docudrama on Divine Mercy and the mission of Sr. Faustina Kowalska, reveals previously unknown facts and recently disclosed documents that shed new light on the truth of the Divine Mercy message. As many know, the Divine Mercy is a devotion to Jesus Christ associated with the apparitions of Jesus to Sr. Faustina in Poland in the 1930s. Jesus urged Sr. Faustina to paint an image according to the pattern that she had seen, and requested to have the image venerated, first in the sisters’ chapel, and then throughout the world. The venerated image under this Christological title refers to what Sr. Faustina’s diary describes as “God’s loving mercy” towards all people, especially for sinners. Scientific analysis included in the film indicates that Sr. Faustina indeed saw the Lord Jesus. Cooperating with the Kondrat-Media team, a group of experts found letters of Fr. Michal Sopocko (Sr. Faustina’s confessor), and, while browsing forgotten archives, they found additional previously unknown documents. To a large extent, “Love and Mercy: Faustina” can contribute to fulfilling Jesus’ promise that “the spark that will prepare the world for My final coming” will come from Poland (Diary of Saint Maria Faustina Kowalska, 1732).

JOIN US IN ANOTHER WAY OF THE NEW EVAGELIZATION IN OUR PARISH

PLEASE NOTE – FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2020 (See below for rest of programme from December)

Here’s the next session: 8th December 2019 SUNDAY 10.15am – the session for the First Communion children and their Parents – Sunday Mass Receiving The Miraculous Medals of Our Lady St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea

For our First Communion Preparation this year, we have 34 children, who would like to start their journey of faith. Please keep them and their Dear Parents in your prayers. At the same time our First Communion Children from THE LAST YEAR are very welcome to come and encourage the new children with their presence, and also to receive their special gifts from Fr Marcin, which he will bring from Assisi, from the place where Carlo Acutis is buried, their special friend from the last year’s preparation.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2020: The new programme is published below – You will need to book an appointment with Father Marcin as well as fill in a form which will appear on line shortly or can be got from the parish office.

Date	Time	Programme	Location
8th December 2019 SUNDAY	10.15am – Sunday Mass	Receiving The Miraculous Medals of Our Lady	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
16th December 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session VIII- “SACRAMENT of BAPTISM”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
13th January 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session IX- “SACRAMENT of CONFESSION”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27th January 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session X- “SACRAMENT of CONFESSION – practical guide” & “FIVE necessary conditions for a good Confession”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
10th February 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XI – “SACRED HEART DEVOTION – 9 First Fridays of the Month” “Behaving in the confessional”, “ways of confessing sins”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
24th February 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XII- “INSIDE THE SACRAMENT OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST part 1 – (Measuring children for First Communion robes)	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
9th March 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XIII- “INSIDE THE SACRAMENT OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST part 2”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
23rd March 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XIV-“Structure and the meaning of the particular parts of the Holy Mass” Receiving and getting familiar with the Mass & Prayer Books which children receive during the session.	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27th March 2020 FRIDAY	6.15pm	STATIONS OF THE CROSS IN THE CHURCH	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27th April 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XV – “The Holy Body & Precious Blood of Christ”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
11th May 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session only for parents/carers – Theology of the Body	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
31st May 2020 Sunday	after 10:15am Mass	Rehearsals of the First Confession & The First Holy Communion Celebration	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
7th June 2020 Sunday	after 10:15am Mass	Rehearsals of the First Confession & The First Holy Communion Celebration	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
12TH June 2020 FRIDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Final Rehearsal Followed by the Holy Mass, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament & Benediction	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
13TH June 2020 Saturday	11.30am	FIRST SACRAMENT OF CONFESSION FOR CHILDREN	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
14TH JUNE 2020 Sunday	11:45am	FIRST HOLY COMMUNION MASS	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
21ST June 2020 SUNDAY	10:15am Mass	Receiving the Certificates of the Holy Communion	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
22ND June 2020 MONDAY	5.00pm to 6.30pm	Session XVI – Following Jesus Christ & the ways to be involved	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
28TH June 2020 SUNDAY	10:15am Mass	Thanksgiving Mass together with the previous year First Communion Children	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27TH September 2020 SUNDAY	10:15am Mass	Inaugaration of the new Preparation for the First Communion. Thanksgiving Mass and receive a special gift from Fr Marcin	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea

SHORT REMINDER FOR THE PARENTS OF THE FIRST COMMUNION CHILDREN – Please, attend the sessions with your children, because they are organised on the way to make your life a little bit easier do not create another, separated sessions just with the Parents. All the Parents should stay for the sessions with the children, please, please.

The next Baptismal Preparation Sessions for 2020 will appear here soon

Please, notice that it is expected from the Parents & God -Parents to practice their faith, which also means to attend Sunday Mass regularly.

Download The Baptism Registration form here:

RCIA – (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults):

if You are and adult and think to be baptised in the Catholic Church, or You are baptised in another Christian denominations, but would like to become Catholic, or You wish to be confirmed, please contact Fr Marcin for more details.

Prayer of the Month – December 2019

Father of Goodness, the birth of your Son Jesus opens a new time to the world, a time of hope and peace. We pray for children and adolescents, especially those who live discouraged by their difficulties and sufferings, who do not find opportunities to develop, feel enthusiasm for the future, nor the support they need to have a decent life. Help us to give them a bright future, embracing with love the children and adolescents of today, so they can transform the world that you have created in a space of life and fraternity among all. Our Father…

Pope Francis Prayer for The Very Young

For its part, the international community and its agencies are called to give a voice to those who have none. Among the latter in our own time, I would mention the victims of other ongoing wars, especially that in Syria with its high death toll. Once more, I appeal to the international community to promote a political solution to a conflict that will ultimately see only a series of defeats. It is vital to put an end to violations of humanitarian law, which cause untold suffering to the civil population, especially women and children, and strike at essential structures such … Read more here

Pope Francis Prayer Intentions December 2019 -Universal – The Very Young

Universal – The Very Young That every country resolutely commits to taking the necessary measures to make the future of the very young, especially those who suffer, a priority. December Reflection by Fr. Henry Shea – The Future of the Very Young Guest Author–November 25, 2019 Shortly after my ordination I was missioned by the Jesuits to England for doctoral studies. There are few British winter traditions more famous than the service of Lessons and Carols held on Christmas Eve at Kings College Cambridge and broadcast throughout the country on the BBC. Since 1919 the choir at Kings College has … Read more here

and for those in Our Own Parish…..

Please pray for those who are ill especially: Brian Girling, Shelia Langford; Catherine Morgan, Piam Brown Ward, for all the children suffering and their poor families with them Aidan Molloy, David Shields, Bob Guy, Ms Sini Chacko, Shirley Parker, Kathleen Jones, Heidi Badnell, Rosemary Devonald, Dominic, Carol Langsford, Patricia Ward, Pat Groom, 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, Jo Wheeler and Josephine Butler.

And all whose anniversaries occur at this time: 8th December 2019 : Rocislaw ‘Rudi’ Rudziak, Maurice Anderson, Ninette Dyer, Anna Rainer, Margaret Davis, William Gast, James Michaelin, Ivy Lillian Koerner, Eileen Nora Howard, Michael Valentine, Michael Garvey, Patrick McErlane, Kathleen Mary Aldridge, Ellen Kiely, Mary Millgate, Mary Robinson, Marie Stanway, Mary Patricia Ann Morley, Grace Margaret Cross, Hilda Eliza Mary Vella, Monica Helen Halley, Johanna Mazumdar (“Joan”), Mary Bulbeck, Charles Oliver, Minnie Elliot, Winifred Bennett, Mary Hyatt, Gertrude Green, Arthur (Mick) Tressidder, Katherine Dogherty, Darrel Hugh Lochrie, Teresa Malbon, Peter Morley, Keith Lane, Lily Lawrence, Dorothy Bradley, Geoffrey Browning, Margaret Ellen Brayfield, Sister Mechtilde Fox, Vernon Alfred Richard Read, John Boone, Mary Coombes, Walter Ford, Charles Sanderson, Olive Grace, Patrick Malloy, Francis O’Leary, Nora Christina Gower & Winifred Freida Keane (“Freida”),Lizzie and Patrick McSharry ,Gemma Litchfield and Jozef Michalczuk.

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

The Requiem Mass & Funeral of Mr Roscislaw Rudziak (Known As: Rudi) will be held on Monday 9^TH December, at 10am Mass in St Swithun’s church

“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.

Morning Prayers by Text

THANK YOU SO MUCH to John Mason, who made for our church a beautiful rosary beads, which we can find hanging on the benches. They are used by many to pray the rosary, but also we are very welcome to take them, if we wish to use them in our daily life for this such powerful prayer through the intercessions of Our Lady, Mother of God. Because one of the resolutions for the New Year 2019 in our parish is to remember about Morning Prayer, it is good to know, that John also is active in this way for us, …
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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 …
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St Swithun’s Homeless Mission

Our Roman Catholic Church of St Swithun’s and Our Lady of Lourdes two years ago decided that we had to start helping our homeless brothers and sisters along the Albert Road. Hence our Homeless Mission was born. A couple of volunteers Diana Clark and Lisa Butler started out by just making some sandwiches and some flasks of tea and coffee and taking these to the homeless they found on the street. We saw the increasing numbers of people sleeping rough in Portsmouth and Southsea, alongside other towns and cities in Britain. They are clearly visible in the doorways and car …
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HELPING THE HOUSEBOUND and SICK AT HOME

I would like to inform you about one of our very important Pastoral Works, which will be a connection between Jesus Christ’s altar and our home’s tables – if You are sick, elderly or housebound, or You have any family members or friends who are in such a state, I will be very happy to celebrate Holy Mass at their homes, flats if they only wish. Please, let me know and we will organise everything. Thanksgiving for the invitation and all the Family, who care of it and they going to be present there. God’s Blessings from Father Marcin …
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Children’s Liturgy & Sunday School from Sept 2019

Children’s Liturgy St Swithun’s will run again our CHILDREN’S LITURGY for our Sunday Masses at 10.15am starting back on 8th of September. If any of the Parents would like to join a team of so dedicated people for this time with the smallest children during the Holy Mass, please be in touch with our Dear Anne Worden – 02392 817586, or email: anne.worden@port.ac.uk We need your help so much, so the children can be sure, that their special Liturgy will take place very Sunday. Children’s Liturgy Volunteers Our children enjoy taking part in the Liturgy of the Word which is …
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Parish Devotions this month

December is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception of Our Blessed Lady

December is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception The greatest privilege possessed by Our Blessed Lady, next to the Divine Maternity itself, is that of the Immaculate Conception. And it is only because of the Divine Maternity that Mary was immaculately conceived. For many years many of the greatest saints in the Church denied that she had been given this privilege. They did this not because they wanted to deprive her of any honor that might properly be given to her, but because it seemed to them to deny that Christ was the universal Redeemer, the Redeemer even of His own … Read more here

December – Novena of the Immaculate Conception

The Feast of the Immaculate Conception, which is profoundly influential among the faithful, is an occasion for many displays of popular piety and especially for the novena of the Immaculate Conception. There can be no doubt that the feast of the pure and sinless Conception of the Virgin Mary, which is a fundamental preparation for the Lord’s coming into the world, harmonises perfectly with many of the salient themes of Advent. This feast also makes reference to the long messianic waiting for the Saviour’s birth and recalls events and prophecies from the Old Testament, which are also used in the … Read more here

December – History of the Dogma of The Immaculate Conception

Credit must be given to the Oriental Church for having been the first to institute the feast of Mary’s Conception. St. Andrew of Crete (660-740), in his canon In conceptionem Sanctae ac Dei aviae Annae, provides us with the first historical document bearing testimony to the existence of the present feast. It was only many years later that the West accepted it, and not without strong opposition. The very first testimony to the existence of the feast in the West is had from a celebrated marble kalendarium found in Naples dating as far back as the ninth century. It is … Read more here

Fr. Mike Schmitz The Immaculate Conception Explained

Did you know that Mary actually did know her child would save the world? In fact, she was saved around forty-seven years before Jesus died. Fr. Mike Schmitz simplifies the complex theology behind the Immaculate Conception in this video. Using a clever analogy or two, he demonstrates how Scripture alludes to the fact that Mary was immaculately conceived, and he explains why this solemnity is so important to the Church … Read more here

SOD-1208-SolemnityoftheImmaculateConception

The month of December is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception

The month of December is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception, which is celebrated on December 8. From all eternity God chose with infinite wisdom the woman who would be the Mother of His divine Son. To prepare for the Word Incarnate a spotless and holy tabernacle, God created Mary in grace and endowed her from the moment of her conception with all the perfections suited to her exalted dignity. St. Thomas teaches that through her intimacy with Christ, the principle of grace, she possessed beyond all creatures a fullness of divine life. In 1854, Pope Pius IX’s solemn declaration, Ineffabilis … Read more here

English bishops say Catholic voters can’t ‘watch from balcony’ during UK election

SAFEGUARDING AND THE SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION

24/11/2019

Pope Francis Message – 3rd World Day of the Poor 2019

17/11/2019

Pope Francis kicks off World Day of the Poor with free healthcare for disadvantaged

16/11/2019

Our Parish Finances – we need your Help 08-12-2019

OFFERTORY:

Thank you for last Sunday’s Collection. The total amount was £1354, 78 (62% gift aid). As always, your generosity is much appreciated. Your donations make the life and work of the Parish possible.

Thank all of You who make our church, our Parish so beautiful and alive!

This WEEKEND please support us in the SECOND COLLECTIONS through whole Advent to be a part of Open Church Project for the homeless.

Download Newsletter PDF 08-12-2019

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 – Second Sunday of Advent Sunday 8th December 2019 Year A

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;
Pastoral Assistant: Sr Marie Elise tel: 07747 728734;
Safeguarding Representative: Mo Griffiths tel: 023 92 737559;
Safeguarding Representative: Anne Worden tel: 023 92 817586;
Parish Office Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 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

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A big THANK YOU to our sponsors who contribute to our Parish costs

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

St Swithun’s Primary School Newsletter – December 6th 2019

Welcome to the latest St Swithun’s Catholic Primary School Portsmouth newsletter. In this issue we have special Scroll down to check out lots of other bits of news, interesting readings and more…

or alternatively you can download here: Download St Swithun’s Primary School – Newsletter 6th December 2019

Gospel & Readings

Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 08-12-2019

The Kids Bulletin: – Second Sunday of Advent Year A

For Kids – Why not read today’s Holy Readings here again: Sunday December 8th 2019 for The Second Sunday of Advent

News & Events

White Gate Closure

With effect from Monday 9th December, the white gate between the pre-school and main school areas will be locked at 3.45 pm. This is to secure the whole site from unauthorised persons who are using the white gate as a thoroughfare between the sports centre and St Simon’s Road. All families who are collecting children from after school care or an after school club will need to use the main school entrance in Taswell Road and park in the sports centre; remember Mr Olive has negotiated a 15 minute drop off/pick up period with BHLive …
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Extended Day Discounts

Now that the new online booking system is running successfully, those families who would normally receive either a sibling or whole termly booking discount, will need to contact the school office to get the discount applied manually to the child’s account …
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Congratulations!

Isla who achieved a Merit in her Grade 1 clarinet exam and to… Ting, Year 6, who achieved a distinction for her music grade 5 theory exam and a distinction for her flute grade 4. An outstanding achievement for both children, well done! …
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IBM Robot Day

On the 25th November, year 6 had a visit from IBM. IBM is a company that controls lots of electronics like computers. They came in to teach and show us how to control and make a robot. First, we got into our teams; we had two IBM members in each group to help and explain things to us. We all had different roles: software engineer, designing engineer, commercial manager, technical manager, marketer and the designer. Every single job was very important. Next we had to decide a team name and what we would call our robot. We worked hard on …
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Festive Choir Events – Lord Mayor’s Coffee Morning & Carols

On 5th December, we sang for the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress and some elderly people, who were having tea and coffee. This was in the Guildhall; we got to look at the Council Room and some of us even sat in the Lord Mayor’s chair. We are very grateful to Mrs Bacon and our adult helpers for taking us on these trips. We really enjoy singing for everyone. Holly & Joan What a fantastic performance from the children of the St Swithun’s Choir this morning and what an amazing group of pupils. It was such a pleasure to meet …
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Festive Choir Events – Homeless Lunch

On the 2nd December, some of Key Stage 2 choir members went to sing for the homeless in Fratton Park organised by Faith in Football. This is an annual even which we have attended for many years. The children really enjoy attending this event as it gives them an opportunity to sing to those less fortunate than themselves. This is especially relevant this year as Years 5 & 6 have been focussing on homelessness in their RE lessons …
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Our Advent Preparations at St Swithun’s Primary school

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY 14th DECEMBER 2019 from 4pm

Join and Like our FOSSS Facebook Page

If you are on Facebook, please join the Friends of St Swithun’s School Parents’ Page (Southsea). FOSSS use this page a lot to publicise their events, such as the two discos and the upcoming Christmas Fayre. https://www.facebook.com/groups/50173942 6581565/?fref=nf By following this page you won’t miss out on any FOSSS events …
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School Nursing Service – Flu / Influenza Jabs

Nasal Flu Vaccinations The School Nursing Service has advised us of some dates for the Flu Mop Up sessions that parents can bring their children to if they were absent on the day of the flu session at school, if they were contraindicated (unwell) at the session and unable to receive on the day or if the child refused. • Tuesday 10th December 3pm – 4.30pm @ Paulsgrove Family Hub, Cheltenham Road, PO6 3PL • Monday 16th December 3pm – 4.30pm @ Buckland Family Hub, Turner Road, PO1 4PN Completed Date • Tuesday 12th November 3pm – 4.30pm @ Milton …
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School Notices

Letters sent by the School – 06-12-2019

All letters are now sent via email and are available on our website. If you have reason to receive a paper copy, please let the School Office know. – please do make sure that we have your correct email address. This will ensure that all communication comes directly to you, our families. We are aiming to include all letters sent home on the website – please visit the ‘Parents’ section, click ‘Letters’ and information relevant to your child will be in their phase folder i.e. Year 1/2. A list of the most recent letters will be detailed in future newsletters …
Read more here

Staff Profile

Vacancies for a Midday Assistant

We have a vacancy for a midday assistant to work in our Key Stage 2 playground from 12.15 pm – 1.15 pm, Monday – Friday, to start on Monday 6th January 2020. If you are interested, please ask in the office for an application form …
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Sacrament Programmes

PLEASE NOTE – FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2020 (See below for rest of programme from December)

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2020: The new programme is published below – You will need to book an appointment with Father Marcin as well as fill in a form which will appear on line shortly or can be got from the parish office.

Date	Time	Programme	Location
8th December 2019 SUNDAY	10.15am – Sunday Mass	Receiving The Miraculous Medals of Our Lady	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
16th December 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session VIII- “SACRAMENT of BAPTISM”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
13th January 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session IX- “SACRAMENT of CONFESSION”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27th January 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session X- “SACRAMENT of CONFESSION – practical guide” & “FIVE necessary conditions for a good Confession”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
10th February 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XI – “SACRED HEART DEVOTION – 9 First Fridays of the Month” “Behaving in the confessional”, “ways of confessing sins”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
24th February 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XII- “INSIDE THE SACRAMENT OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST part 1 – (Measuring children for First Communion robes)	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
9th March 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XIII- “INSIDE THE SACRAMENT OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST part 2”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
23rd March 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XIV-“Structure and the meaning of the particular parts of the Holy Mass” Receiving and getting familiar with the Mass & Prayer Books which children receive during the session.	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27th March 2020 FRIDAY	6.15pm	STATIONS OF THE CROSS IN THE CHURCH	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27th April 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XV – “The Holy Body & Precious Blood of Christ”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
11th May 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session only for parents/carers – Theology of the Body	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
31st May 2020 Sunday	after 10:15am Mass	Rehearsals of the First Confession & The First Holy Communion Celebration	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
7th June 2020 Sunday	after 10:15am Mass	Rehearsals of the First Confession & The First Holy Communion Celebration	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
12TH June 2020 FRIDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Final Rehearsal Followed by the Holy Mass, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament & Benediction	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
13TH June 2020 Saturday	11.30am	FIRST SACRAMENT OF CONFESSION FOR CHILDREN	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
14TH JUNE 2020 Sunday	11:45am	FIRST HOLY COMMUNION MASS	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
21ST June 2020 SUNDAY	10:15am Mass	Receiving the Certificates of the Holy Communion	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
22ND June 2020 MONDAY	5.00pm to 6.30pm	Session XVI – Following Jesus Christ & the ways to be involved	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
28TH June 2020 SUNDAY	10:15am Mass	Thanksgiving Mass together with the previous year First Communion Children	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27TH September 2020 SUNDAY	10:15am Mass	Inaugaration of the new Preparation for the First Communion. Thanksgiving Mass and receive a special gift from Fr Marcin	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea

The next Baptismal Preparation Sessions for 2020 will appear here soon

Please, notice that it is expected from the Parents & God -Parents to practice their faith, which also means to attend Sunday Mass regularly.

Download The Baptism Registration form here:

Services This Week

Class Masses

These will be normally held on Fridays at St Swithun’s Church, commencing at 10:00am. We look forward to welcoming you at your child’s class mass.

We look forward to welcoming you at your child’s class mass. Please note the change of time and place –
VIEW THE SCHOOL CALENDAR HERE

Class Assemblies

These will be held in the School Hall every Wednesday afternoon. Please join us for your own child’s class assembly, which begins at 3:10pm for which you may arrive at the School Office from 3:00pm.

Wednesday Date	Time	Class
11th December 2020	3:10pm	Leopards
8th January 2020	3:10pm	Panthers
15th January 2020	3:10pm	Ladybirds
22nd January 2020	3:10pm	Gorillas
29th January 2020	3:10pm	Starfish
5th February 2020	3:10pm	Kangaroos
12th February 2020	3:10pm	Wolves

VIEW THE SCHOOL CALENDAR HERE

Class Liturgy

These will be held in class. Please join us at 9:15am for your child’s class liturgy.

Wednesday Date	Time	Class
15th January 2020	9:15am	Starfish
5th February 2020	9:15am	Seahorses
12th February 2020	9:15am	Bumblebees
11th March 2020	9:15am	Ladybirds
18th March 2020	9:15am	Dolphins

These dates are provisional subject to change/addition. Please check the calendar on the school website, www.stswithunscatholicprimaryschool.co.uk, for the latest information.
VIEW THE SCHOOL CALENDAR HERE

Inset Days

Please note that the dates on the Portsmouth City Council website DO NOT include our Inset days. These can be found here in our newsletters, or on our website.

- Monday 24th February 2020
- Monday 29^th June 2020

Holiday Care:

We now provide childcare through school holidays and day closures. It is run by the same team who provide Sunlight and Twilight care, so if you need childcare for the Summer Holidays, please do contact the Extended Day team directly on sunandtwilight@st-swithuns.portsmouth.sch.uk or via the Office. (These will be available to book online very soon, via SCOPAY.COM)

Holiday care is available for the dates below plus: Please ask in the Office for booking forms or email sunandtwilight@st-swithuns.portsmouth.sch.uk.

Holiday Care Available from	to	Comments
28th October 2019	1st November 2019
		N.B. No holiday care is available on 2nd or 3rd January 2020
17th February 2020	21st February 2020
6th April 2020	17th April 2020	(Not available Friday 10th or Monday 13th April 2020)
26th May 2020	29th May 2020
Summer term dates		Summer holiday care dates for 2020 are yet to be confirmed

Useful Info

Download St Swithun’s Primary School – Newsletter 6th December 2019

St Swithun’s Primary School Details

VIEW THE SCHOOL CALENDAR HERE

Download Newsletter PDF 08-12-2019

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 – Second Sunday of Advent Sunday 8th December 2019 Year A

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;
Pastoral Assistant: Sr Marie Elise tel: 07747 728734;
Safeguarding Representative: Mo Griffiths tel: 023 92 737559;
Safeguarding Representative: Anne Worden tel: 023 92 817586;
Parish Office Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 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

Newsletter: 1st December 2019 – First Sunday of Advent Cycle A

Download this newsletter in printer-friendly PDF format to read later. But all the posts and more can be found below with links , videos and much more if you like too.

Download this week’s Newsletter here: Newsletter – First Sunday of Advent Sunday 1st December 2019 Year A

My Dear Friends, Brothers & Sisters in Christ

Preparation:

As we begin this time of quiet prayer, I invite you to find a comfortable place to sit with your back straight and your legs planted on the ground. Allow yourself to notice your breathing as you breathe normally. Breathe in. Breathe out. Take a few moments and close your eyes, preparing yourself to listen to what God may be saying to you during this prayer. As you sit with your eyes closed, use these or similar words: “Here I am, Lord. Here I am.” When you are ready, open your eyes and pray.

The Mountain of the Lord’s House

Imagine you are climbing up the mountain of the Lord. As you start the path is wide with beautiful trees and flowers along the way. You fill your lungs with the cool, clean air. As you continue you notice the path is becoming narrow and steep. There seem to be more rocks sticking up from the ground. You find yourself a little out of breath as the air becomes thinner the higher you climb. You decide to rest on a large rock to catch your breath. You look up the path to see how much more you need to climb. You see someone in the distance. He’s looking at you. It looks like his hand is waving for you to come. Though you are alone, you are not afraid. In fact, you feel a pull, a desire to go this person. You are standing in front of him. He is dressed in long robes that are moving gently in the mountain air. He smiles at you and asks, “What are you seeking on this path?” What do you say to him? What are you seeking?

“I am the prophet Isaiah. This is the mountain of the Lord. It is rich with life and dreams. What dreams do you bring to this place?” What are the dreams you bring to this mountain? What are your dreams that you want to share with the Lord? Isaiah looks at you with eyes that know how to dream. “My dreams beat swords into ploughshares. They are dreams of peace, of life, of hope.” What are the swords in your heart that need to be changed? What are the swords that wound you and hold you back from dreaming and from climbing the mountain of the Lord? Give those swords to Isaiah, the prophet, the dreamer. Ask him to help you change them into something life-giving.

“I will change your swords into ploughshares so you can till the soil of your soul and know that God is with you. Are you ready for this dream to be real?” You look into the eyes of this dreamer, Isaiah, and you say, Yes. Yes, I am ready. Isaiah smiles at you and takes your hand in his. He looks at you with eyes filled deep with hope and life. He understands you. “Come,” he says, “let us walk in the light of the Lord!”

Concluding Prayer: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

with Blessings Father Marcin Drabik

Summary of What’s on in Our Parish This Week

…
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“PUT the CHRIST into CHRISTMAS” – WHAT DOES ADVENT MEAN?

The month of December is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The month of December is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. “From all eternity God chose with infinite wisdom the woman who would be the Mother of His divine Son. To prepare for the Word Incarnate a spotless and holy tabernacle, God created Mary in grace and endowed her from the moment of her conception with all the perfections suited to her exalted dignity. St. Thomas teaches that through her intimacy with Christ, the principle …
Read more here

St Swithun’s Catholic Primary School, Southsea – This S48 Validation: Good

St Swithun’s Catholic Primary School, Southsea Taswell Road, Southsea, Hants PO5 2RG

This is a good school.

• St Swithun’s School is an outstanding example of a Catholic school community, where the mission statement and Christian ethos have a very positive impact. Excellent relationships between adults and pupils lead to a loving and trusting environment, where all are encouraged to live out their mission statement of ‘Love one another as I have loved you’. • The personal faith, leadership …
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Fr. Mike Schmitz – Advent More than a Chocolate Calendar

What does Advent mean to you? A time to put the lights up, gift shop, and eat chocolate? Or is it something more? Fr. Mike says it’s good to prepare ourselves for Christmas during Advent, but ultimately that’s not what the liturgical season is about. Mary, Joseph, and Jesus had to stay in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn. Will you use this season to make room for Jesus in your life? …
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Hymn for Today – Stay Awake Put Christ into Christmas

This slideshow with music by Mumford & Sons (“I will Wait for You”) is designed to be used in Post-Primary R.E. classrooms & at services during Advent. I hope you & your students enjoy it.With every blessing this Advent, Gary from the Dublin Diocese in Ireland I listened to the song and read the lyrics several times before I wrote this answer. I can’t see the connection to a relationship. It seems to be a man who is going through a time of loss and wanting,a time of dust,but he has not given up hope,nor his faith. He will continue …
Read more here

Heads Up: Scott Hahn Reflects on the First Sunday of Advent

In a Dark Hour: Scott Hahn Reflects on the First Sunday in Advent

Jesus exaggerates in today’s Gospel when He claims not to know the day or the hour when He will come again. He occasionally makes such overstatements to drive home a point we might otherwise miss (see Matthew 5:34; 23:9; Luke 14:26). His point here is that the exact “hour” is not important. What is crucial is that we not postpone our repentance, that we be ready for Him—spiritually and morally—when He comes. For He will surely come, He tells us—like a thief in the night, like the flood in the time of Noah.

Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 01-12-2019

Children, in this week’s Gospel: Matthew 24:37-44 Jesus tells his disciples that the coming of the Son of Man will catch many people unprepared. Jesus tells his disciples that they are to always be ready for the day of the Lord. Father Marcin and I have agreed that it would be good if the parish knew a little more about what is happening in school and the school community had the benefit of Fr Marcin’s thoughts on the week’s Gospel: Dear Families Children are any of you in the Girl Scouts? Can anyone tell me the Girl Scout motto? You are right again. The Girl Scout motto is, “Be Prepared.” Now, who can tell me what the Boy Scout motto is? You The Boy Scout motto is “Be Prepared.” The Girl Scout and Boy Scout motto means that a good scout must always “Be prepared.” That is also the subject …
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Thoughts on Today’s Gospel and Readings for the Week – 01-12-2019

Background on the Gospel Reading Gospel Reading Matthew 24:37-44 Jesus tells his disciples that the coming of the Son of Man will catch many people unprepared. Jesus tells his disciples that they are to always be ready for the day of the Lord. Today is the first Sunday of Advent, which is also the first Sunday of a new liturgical year for the Church. The Advent season includes the four Sundays that precede Christmas. It is a time of preparation for the coming of the Lord. In this season, we recall two central elements of our faith: the final coming of the Lord in glory and the incarnation of the Lord in the birth of Jesus. Key themes of the Advent season are watchful waiting, preparation, and justice. In this new liturgical year, the Gospel of Matthew will be the primary Gospel proclaimed (Lectionary Cycle A). In today’s Gospel, we …
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Our Lord reminds us of the need to always be prepared for His coming, whether it is our own personal exit from this life or the worlds. And just like a master of the house who does not know the hour when the thief will come … we too are unaware of the hour and so should always be spiritually ready as if it will be today.

Mass for Arthur Tobin who left us a £10.000 legacy

TRIBUTE TO THOSE, WHO MADE OUR DREAM ABOUT YOUTH CLUB’s ROOM POSSIBLE And the young Polish, very dedicated people, who sacrificed their time and talents to do it for free On Monday 9TH December, at 10am Mass in St Swithun’s church – Mass for Arthur Tobin – 12/10/1923 – 25/01/2018 (he left us £10.000 legacy) Arthur Tobin was a Southsea lad heart and soul. He attended St Swithun’s Primary School, the beginning of a long association with St Swithun’s church. His early education, both at school and at home, emphasized service before self, and, when war broke out, he joined …
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CAFOD’s Advent Resources and Appeal

Jo Lewry, CAFOD Portsmouth Community Partnership Co-ordinator writes… This Advent prepare for Christmas by using CAFOD’s online Advent calendar which has readings and prayers for each day here. We also have prayers and an advent service for use in parishes. Our Advent appeal this year is focussed on Refugees. The conflict in Syria forced Majid and his family to flee their hometown in fear of their lives. Their long journey to find somewhere safe to stay was unimaginable. Dana, Majid’s wife told us “we only feared that a missile might fall on our heads”. They eventually found shelter- a single room in a disused shop. Majid took on jobs wherever he could, but he still struggled to …
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Caritas “Open Church” Night Shelter Project

“PUT the CHRIST into CHRISTMAS” – WHAT DOES ADVENT MEAN?

The History of Advent

Advent can come as a surprise to us sometimes, beginning right after the busy Thanksgiving holiday with family and friends. It’s not unlike the surprise of Mary when she received news that she was pregnant with Jesus. Like her, we take the season of Advent as a time for pause, reflection, and preparation for the gift of God’s love coming to us through the baby Jesus. History of Advent The historic origin of Advent is not for certain; no evidence exists around the feast of the Nativity of the Lord before the end of the fourth century. Several homilies and …
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CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY 14th DECEMBER 2019 from 4pm

Year of the Word: Workshops for Readers – St John’s Cathedral

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

01
December
2019

Sunday School after 10:15am Mass for all Children and Parents

Find out more

02
December
2019

Parish Devotion for December 2nd 2019 – Mondays – Month of the Immaculate Conception

Find out more

02
December
2019

St Vincent de Paul Society at St Swithun’s

Find out more

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06
December
2019

Parish Devotion for December 6th 2019 – Fridays – Month of The Immaculate Conception

Find out more

Find out more

16
December
2019

Parish Devotion for December 16th 2019 – Mondays – Month of The Immaculate Conception

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16
December
2019

First Holy Communion Programme – 16-12-2019

Find out more

16
December
2019

Worship Together – Healing and Prayer Ministry – 16th December 2019

Find out more

Scroll through to see all the events happening from the 1st December 2019 till the 31st December 2019

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

Ascent Group – Events Nov to Dec 2019

Sunday School after 10:15am Mass for all Children and Parents

St Swithun’s Parents and Toddlers Group 2019

Worship Together Programme – Healing and Prayer Ministry

Parish Youth Group & Confirmation Candidates Announcement – Important Dates

Eucharistic Adoration – New Start Time from 9:00am every Morning

Hear God’s Voice Tuesdays in the Presbytery – St Swithun’s Church

You can watch our next film, “My Life” with Michael Keaton and Nicole Kidman., for discussion on Friday 6th December 8.10pm to 9.30pm in the Church Hall.

Film	Title
	Click on this link to go to the event on our website A glimpse of grace as two individuals restore each other’s souls with gifts of trust and love. It seems that Bob Jones (Michael Keaton) has everything a man could want, namely a fulfilling job and a beautiful, pregnant wife, Gail (Nicole Kidman). But Bob’s life is turned upside-down when he is diagnosed with cancer and given four months to live — not even enough time to see his first child’s birth. To cleanse himself of demons in his remaining days, Bob makes a video diary, hoping to pass along some wisdom to his future child. Along the way, he discovers a lot about himself.

Film

Title

my life - cinema quad movie poster (2).jpg

Click on this link to go to the event on our website

A glimpse of grace as two individuals restore each other’s souls with gifts of trust and love.

It seems that Bob Jones (Michael Keaton) has everything a man could want, namely a fulfilling job and a beautiful, pregnant wife, Gail (Nicole Kidman). But Bob’s life is turned upside-down when he is diagnosed with cancer and given four months to live — not even enough time to see his first child’s birth. To cleanse himself of demons in his remaining days, Bob makes a video diary, hoping to pass along some wisdom to his future child. Along the way, he discovers a lot about himself.

JOIN US IN ANOTHER WAY OF THE NEW EVAGELIZATION IN OUR PARISH

A VERY GOOD WAY FOR THE ADVENT’s RETREAT

Returning to cinemas by popular demand – on the December 10th in the UK Original locations + 50 new cinemas

JOIN US IN ANOTHER WAY OF THE NEW EVAGELIZATION IN OUR PARISH

PLEASE NOTE – FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2020 (See below for rest of programme from December)

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2020: The new programme is published below – You will need to book an appointment with Father Marcin as well as fill in a form which will appear on line shortly or can be got from the parish office.

Date	Time	Programme	Location
8th December 2019 SUNDAY	10.15am – Sunday Mass	Receiving The Miraculous Medals of Our Lady	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
16th December 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session VIII- “SACRAMENT of BAPTISM”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
13th January 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session IX- “SACRAMENT of CONFESSION”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27th January 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session X- “SACRAMENT of CONFESSION – practical guide” & “FIVE necessary conditions for a good Confession”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
10th February 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XI – “SACRED HEART DEVOTION – 9 First Fridays of the Month” “Behaving in the confessional”, “ways of confessing sins”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
24th February 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XII- “INSIDE THE SACRAMENT OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST part 1 – (Measuring children for First Communion robes)	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
9th March 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XIII- “INSIDE THE SACRAMENT OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST part 2”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
23rd March 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XIV-“Structure and the meaning of the particular parts of the Holy Mass” Receiving and getting familiar with the Mass & Prayer Books which children receive during the session.	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27th March 2020 FRIDAY	6.15pm	STATIONS OF THE CROSS IN THE CHURCH	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27th April 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XV – “The Holy Body & Precious Blood of Christ”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
11th May 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session only for parents/carers – Theology of the Body	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
31st May 2020 Sunday	after 10:15am Mass	Rehearsals of the First Confession & The First Holy Communion Celebration	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
7th June 2020 Sunday	after 10:15am Mass	Rehearsals of the First Confession & The First Holy Communion Celebration	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
12TH June 2020 FRIDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Final Rehearsal Followed by the Holy Mass, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament & Benediction	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
13TH June 2020 Saturday	11.30am	FIRST SACRAMENT OF CONFESSION FOR CHILDREN	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
14TH JUNE 2020 Sunday	11:45am	FIRST HOLY COMMUNION MASS	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
21ST June 2020 SUNDAY	10:15am Mass	Receiving the Certificates of the Holy Communion	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
22ND June 2020 MONDAY	5.00pm to 6.30pm	Session XVI – Following Jesus Christ & the ways to be involved	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
28TH June 2020 SUNDAY	10:15am Mass	Thanksgiving Mass together with the previous year First Communion Children	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27TH September 2020 SUNDAY	10:15am Mass	Inaugaration of the new Preparation for the First Communion. Thanksgiving Mass and receive a special gift from Fr Marcin	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea

The next Baptismal Preparation Sessions for 2020 will appear here soon

Please, notice that it is expected from the Parents & God -Parents to practice their faith, which also means to attend Sunday Mass regularly.

Download The Baptism Registration form here:

RCIA – (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults):

Prayer of the Month – December 2019

Pope Francis Prayer for The Very Young

Pope Francis Prayer Intentions December 2019 -Universal – The Very Young

and for those in Our Own Parish…..

And all whose anniversaries occur at this time: 1st December 2019 : Rocislaw ‘Rudi’ Rudziak, Maurice Anderson, Mary Claffey, Isabella Butler, James Harrison, Eileen McEntee, Michael McMahon, Elizabeth Lindsay, J Michael Kane, Florence Read, Muriel Ryan, Alfred Kenneth Elliot, Norman Cyril Pickard, Jack Barter, Tadeusz Mikulski, Janet Mary Loud, Margaret Malloy, Nicole Sharkey aka Nee Brett, Lucy Osmonde, Gerald James Murphy, Evelyn Blanche Bushnell, Sean Gerard Lynn, Andrew O’Brien, Florence Alice Brennan, Edith Horn, Reuben Atkins, Norah Bailey, Maria Mallia, Rosemary Orme, Violet Faith Wardlaw, Sarah Stanford, Kathleen Dorothy Thomas, Anna Walsh, Ellen (Nellie) Elizabeth Budd, James George Cornelius Coughlin, Peter Jeffery, Louise Margaret Baxter, Humphrey Bremsking, Pamela Grace Gorsuch, Maria Valcic, Walter David Henry Clabburn, Gerald Kearney, Betty Sarah Tongh, Doris Edna Maisie Pooley,Lizzie and Patrick McSharry ,Gemma Litchfield and Jozef Michalczuk.

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

The Requiem Mass & Funeral of Mr Roscislaw Rudziak (Known As: Rudi) will be held on Monday 9^TH December, at 10am Mass in St Swithun’s church

“CAN-DO CHRISTIANS” A MESSAGE FROM FATHER MARCIN

Morning Prayers by Text

GOING INTO HOSPITAL?

St Swithun’s Homeless Mission

HELPING THE HOUSEBOUND and SICK AT HOME

Children’s Liturgy & Sunday School from Sept 2019

Parish Devotions this month

December is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception of Our Blessed Lady

December – Novena of the Immaculate Conception

December – History of the Dogma of The Immaculate Conception

Fr. Mike Schmitz The Immaculate Conception Explained

The month of December is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception

English bishops say Catholic voters can’t ‘watch from balcony’ during UK election

SAFEGUARDING AND THE SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION

24/11/2019

Pope Francis Message – 3rd World Day of the Poor 2019

17/11/2019

Pope Francis kicks off World Day of the Poor with free healthcare for disadvantaged

16/11/2019

Our Parish Finances – we need your Help 01-12-2019

OFFERTORY:

Thank you for last Sunday’s Collection. The total amount was £1447, 46 (61, 5% gift aid). As always, your generosity is much appreciated. Your donations make the life and work of the Parish possible.

Thank all of You who make our church, our Parish so beautiful and alive!

This WEEKEND we start ADVENT, so please support us in the SECOND COLLECTIONS through whole Advent to be a part of Open Church Project for the homeless.

Download Newsletter PDF 01-12-2019

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 – First Sunday of Advent Sunday 1st December 2019 Year A

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;
Pastoral Assistant: Sr Marie Elise tel: 07747 728734;
Safeguarding Representative: Mo Griffiths tel: 023 92 737559;
Safeguarding Representative: Anne Worden tel: 023 92 817586;
Parish Office Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 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

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

Newsletter: 24th November 2019 – Solemnity of Christ the King

Download this newsletter in printer-friendly PDF format to read later. But all the posts and more can be found below with links , videos and much more if you like too.

Download this week’s Newsletter here: Newsletter – Christ the King Sunday 24th November 2019 C – Sunday 24th November 2019 Year C

My Dear Friends, Brothers & Sisters in Christ

This Sunday we celebrate the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe! The Gospel reading shines light on Pilate’s inability to understand the Kingship of Jesus Christ. As a Political leader, Pilate’s worldly idea of Kingship was one of wealth, power and control rather than Our Lord’s true kingship of poverty, love and service.

Today’s Jesus Christ is presented to us as the King of the Universe. My attention has always been drawn by the emphasis the Bible grants to the word “King” when applied to our Lord. “The Lord is king, robed with majesty”, we sing in Psalm 92. “I am a king” (John 18:37), we have heard from Jesus’ very lips. “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord” (Luke 19:38), people shouted when He was entering Jerusalem.

The word “King”, applied to God and to Jesus Christ, does not certainly have the inferred meaning we give to it when speaking of the conventional monarchy, as we know it. Yet, in the popular language the word “king” does have a certain affinity with the Biblical language. For instance, when a mother is taking care of his baby and tells him: —You are the king of our home. What is she implying? Just a very simple thing: that her little baby is her number one priority and means everything to her. And when teenagers claim that so and so is the king of the Rock, they actually mean there is no other one like him; as much as when they refer to the basketball king. Enter a teenager room and you will probably see in his walls who are really his “kings”. I believe these popular expressions very much resemble what we mean when we acclaim God as our King and help us to understand Jesus’ assertion about his kingdom: “My kingship does not come from this world” (John 18:36).

For us Christians our King is our Lord, that is, the centre where the deepest feelings of our lives are going to. When in the Lord’s Prayer we say Your kingdom come, we mean we would like to see that more and more people could find the source of their happiness in God, while following the path He shows to us, which is the path of the beatitudes. Let us therefore ask it with all our heart, for “wherever Jesus Christ is, there are our life and our kingdom” (St. Ambrose).

Introductory Prayer: Lord, thank you for this moment in which I can be alone with you. I believe that you are truth itself, that you are the foundation of all moral judgments. I trust that you care for me and give me the light to see the needs of others. I love you, Lord, and show it now with my desire to pray.

Petition: Lord, help me to be always faithful to Christ my King in the smallest duties of my state in life.

1. They Scoffed and Mocked Him: Contemplate the scene of the Crucifixion, what we see, and what we hear. We see three men being crucified. The one in the middle has a sign affixed to his cross, which reads: “Jesus the Nazarene, the King of the Jews.” Who is this king? We hear the leaders of the Jews ridicule him, and the soldiers mock him. Even one of the dying criminals derides him. Jesus provoked strong reactions from these diverse individuals; he continues to provoke strong reactions today. Reflect on the frenetic energy with which individuals try to erase his name from public life today. Look at the time and resources spent to undo his teaching, his influence, and his values in Western culture. He is ridiculed in books, movies, and works of art. His Church is attacked, as is his vicar on earth and all those who remain loyal to him and his teachings.

2. The People Stood By: We tend to overlook the crowd who stood by watching. They did nothing actively wrong; they were merely passive. As Jesus was mocked and ridiculed and scorned, they remained silent and did nothing. No one stood up for Jesus; no one came to his defence. How few stand up for him and his Church today! Why is it that other groups are so quick to defend their own while we remain silent, watching and standing by, but not standing up?

3. One Man Believes: The good thief put his faith in Christ. A moment of grace came to him in the waning moments of his life. He was able to see Christ the King in all his humble glory, and he reached out for salvation. “This day you will be with me in paradise.” This king was a political failure. He had no success, no power to save his own life. The power he did have he freely surrendered rather than use it for personal gain. He died with only a few followers standing at the cross. He had no wealth or army, but he loved his own in the world. He loved them to the end. Would I follow such a king?

Conversation with Christ: Jesus, I don’t want to be just part of the crowd who remained silent. Give me the strength to stand up for you and to defend you. Help me never to deny you in my life. Help me to be faithful to your teachings and your will.

Resolution: I will speak of Christ today in my conversations with others.

with Blessings and prayerful best wishes, Father Marcin Drabik

This Sunday we celebrate the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. In the Gospel we read about the two criminals who were on either side of Jesus. One thing we can learn from them is how we approach Jesus in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Unlike the bad thief, who demanded to be saved without contrition, we should be like the Penitent thief and ask for forgiveness for all past sins with sincerity and humility.

Kingdom of the Son: Scott Hahn Reflects on the Solemnity of Christ the King

Week by week the Liturgy has been preparing us for the revelation to be made on this, the last Sunday of the Church year. By the blood of His cross, Jesus reveals His Kingship—not by saving His life, but by offering it as a ransom for ours. He transfers us to “the Kingdom of His beloved Son,” as today’s Epistle tells us. His Kingdom is the Church, the new Jerusalem and House of David that we sing of in today’s Psalm. We celebrate and renew this covenant in every Eucharist, giving thanks for our redemption, hoping for the day when we too will be with Him in Paradise.

Holy Souls – The November Mass list to Remember our Dead.

The November Mass list: During November we offer Masses for the dead. If you would like to enrol a loved one on the Parish November Mass List, they will have Mass offered for them, they will be included in the Masses for the Holy Souls, and they will be prayed for (collectively) during the Intercessions each Sunday. Also – very day from Monday to Saturday all the names will be read loudly and prayed with Holy Rosary Prayer in …
Read more here

Story – Our Homeless Friend – Diana Clark of Our Parish Homeless Mission

Our Homeless Friend – Diana Clark

Things have changed in Albert Road in the last few months. Previously, we would meet up to twelve people each evening, when handing out sandwiches and hot drinks but now there are only one or two because they have been ‘moved on’ and are now scattered in other parts of the city. We miss them as they have become our friends, and they were just beginning to trust us. However, we do still …
Read more here

John F. Kennedy and C.S. Lewis: Where Are They Now?

The U.S. president and the British writer died within an hour of each other on Nov. 22, 1963.

Joseph Pearce

At 5:30 p.m. (U.K. time) on Nov. 22, 1963, C. S. Lewis collapsed in his home in Oxford after a long illness and died a few minutes later. At the same time, across the Atlantic, John F. Kennedy was landing at Dallas airport after the short flight from Carswell Air Force Base in Fort Worth …
Read more here

SAFEGUARDING AND THE SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION

A growing awareness of the magnitude of child sexual abuse, especially abuse committed in religious institutions, is prompting government leaders and legislators in Australia, Britain, Ireland, the United States and in many other places to call for laws that would compel priests to violate the sacramental seal and to report instances of child sexual abuse confided to them in the confessional. Many people who are not Catholics do not understand the Sacrament of Reconciliation and its ‘seal.’ Some are …
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Hymn for Today: Hymn to Christ the King – Sarah Hart

Sarah Hart Biography When she was pregnant with her first daughter, one of Sarah Hart’s many creative collaborators brought her a set of juggling balls, and taught her how to use them. Between singing, songwriting, travelling, speaking and parenthood, Hart’s friend figured she’d benefit from the skill. “It was such a funny precursor to how it really looks,” Hart says now, some 12 years later. “Because you do feel like you have to keep those balls up in the air, and if one of them drops, everything sort of falls apart underneath it.” Over years of balancing a family and multi-faceted musical …
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Thoughts on Today’s Gospel and Readings for the Week – 24-11-2019

Background on the Gospel Reading Today as a Church, we conclude our liturgical year and celebrate the Feast of Christ the King. The Gospel we proclaim shows the great mystery of our faith: In the moment of his crucifixion, Jesus is shown to be King and Savior of all. Luke’s Gospel has been loaded with surprises: the poor are rich, sinners find salvation, the Kingdom of God is found in our midst. Here we see the greatest surprise of all. We are confronted with the crucified Jesus, whom faith tells us is King and Savior of all. The irony is that the inscription placed on the cross, perhaps in mockery, contains the profoundest of truth. As the leaders jeer, the thief crucified by his side recognizes Jesus as Messiah and King, and finds salvation. Jesus is King, but not the kind of king we might have imagined or expected. His …
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Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 24-11-2019

Children, in this week’s Gospel: Luke 21:5-19 “When Things Fall Apart “- Jesus reminds us that as his followers, we will face many difficulties. Father Marcin and I have agreed that it would be good if the parish knew a little more about what is happening in school and the school community had the benefit of Fr Marcin’s thoughts on the week’s Gospel: Dear Families Throughout the gospels we are shown different “pictures” of Jesus by the way He is described and the titles He is given. At our Sunday School we talked about this a lot. He is Mary’s son, God’s Son and is called the Son of Man. He is also called the Lamb of God. Other titles He is given and roles he has are brother, healer, friend, teacher, Saviour and ultimately king. Most of you have seen the film, The Lion King. In it, Simba sings …
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CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY 14th DECEMBER 2019 from 4pm

The St Vincent de Paul Society Conference News – Monday 2nd December

Monday 2nd December – Meeting of our Conference of the Society of St Vincent de Paul from 6.00pm to 7.00pm; The St Swithun’s St Vincent de Paul Conference will be dedicated to helping in the Parish’s homeless mission as well as befriending and providing practical assistance to those in need, both within the Parish and in the surrounding area. In the coming weeks, we will be building networks with local services in order to best serve those whom we encounter. Any specific items which are required e.g. baby equipment for a family in need, will be requested from anyone who …
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Happy 105th Birthday to Mrs Jo Wheeler.

This Tuesday 26th November we rejoice 105TH Birthday of our beloved parishioner: Mrs JO WHEELER, and we would like to wish Her BLESSED BIRTHDAY and all the blessings from the Merciful God. As the best gift we have, we offer the Holy Mass in Her intention this Sunday 10.15am …
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St Swithun’s Primary School – Learning to read – a vital skill

Learning to read – a vital skill. At St Swithun’s Primary School, we stress the importance of reading, encouraging children to enjoy reading but also emphasising understanding what has been read and asking questions. Our reading results are excellent but, more importantly, we are developing in the children the skills we all need to access the written word in our information rich world and to realise what makes sense and what should be ignored! The children enjoy their reading: Vanessa, ‘We have books for all different ages, there really is something for everyone. The books we have are very good …
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Ascent Group – A visit to the Southsea Group

A visit to the Southsea Group The majority of our groups are far flung from each other. The Southsea/ Hampshire group definitely falls into this category. For many years they would link up with the Winchester group until Margaret Guppy finally closed the group and then Southsea were out on a limb. Robert and Eileen Steward, the group leaders, invited me to visit St Swithun’s on 24 June to explain how Life Ascending began and perhaps give the members some ‘hot news’ and encouragement. That day the weather forecast suggested huge thunderstorms and torrential rain but thank God, all we …
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Year of the Word: Workshops for Readers – St John’s Cathedral

Ascent Group – Events Nov to Dec 2019

St Swithun’s and OLOL Christmas Fair

Update 24th November 2019 Thank you to all who have contributed to the goods for the Christmas Fayre which is this coming Saturday 30th November from 2.00pm to 5.00pm. Please can you all tell your friends and families to attend and buy the raffle tickets to ensure the success of the event. I am pleased to say that during the time of the Fayre we will also take the opportunity for an Outreach Afternoon when we will have the Blessed Sacrament exposed from 2 to 5pm so that people can come and worship and light candle. There will be music …
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Sunday School after 10:15am Mass for all Children and Parents

St Swithun’s Parents and Toddlers Group 2019

Worship Together Programme – Healing and Prayer Ministry

Parish Youth Group & Confirmation Candidates Announcement – Important Dates

Eucharistic Adoration – New Start Time from 9:00am every Morning

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

23
November
2019

Parish Devotion for November 23rd 2019 – Saturdays – Month of the Holy Souls in Purgatory

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23
November
2019

Alton Day of Renewal – 2019 Programme – The Power of Prayer

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25
November
2019

Parish Devotion for November 25th 2019 – Mondays – Month of the Holy Souls in Purgatory

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25
November
2019

Ascent Group -Dickens Society Reading 25-11-2019

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25
November
2019

Worship Together – Healing and Prayer Ministry – 25th November 2019

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26
November
2019

Parish Devotion for November 26th 2019 – Tuesdays – Month of the Holy Souls in Purgatory

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26
November
2019

Parish Youth Club Timetable 2019

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27
November
2019

Parish Devotion for November 27th 2019 – Wednesdays – Month of the Holy Souls in Purgatory

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28
November
2019

Parish Devotion for November 28th 2019 – Thursdays – Month of the Holy Souls in Purgatory

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29
November
2019

Parish Devotion for November 29th 2019 – Fridays – Month of the Holy Souls in Purgatory

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30
November
2019

Parish Devotion for November 30th 2019 – Saturdays – Month of the Holy Souls in Purgatory

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Find out more

Scroll through to see all the events happening from the 23rd November 2019 till the 31st December 2019

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

Our next film for discussion during November with be “My Life” with Michael Keaton and Nicole Kidman.

Film	Title
	Click on this link to go to the event on our website A glimpse of grace as two individuals restore each other’s souls with gifts of trust and love. It seems that Bob Jones (Michael Keaton) has everything a man could want, namely a fulfilling job and a beautiful, pregnant wife, Gail (Nicole Kidman). But Bob’s life is turned upside-down when he is diagnosed with cancer and given four months to live — not even enough time to see his first child’s birth. To cleanse himself of demons in his remaining days, Bob makes a video diary, hoping to pass along some wisdom to his future child. Along the way, he discovers a lot about himself.

Film

Title

Click on this link to go to the event on our website

A glimpse of grace as two individuals restore each other’s souls with gifts of trust and love.

JOIN US IN ANOTHER WAY OF THE NEW EVAGELIZATION IN OUR PARISH

PLEASE NOTE – FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2020 (See below for full programmes)

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2020: The new programme is published below – You will need to book an appointment with Father Marcin as well as fill in a form which will appear on line shortly or can be got from the parish office.

Date	Time	Programme	Location
9TH September 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Preliminary session for ALL- We start at 5.30pm in the church with the short Exposition & Adoration of The Blessed Sacrament & Benediction. At 6pm: we go to the hall to the Introduction Session	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
16th September 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session II- Session about “PRAYER”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
29th September 2019 SUNDAY	10.15am – Sunday Mass	Inaugaration of the new Preparation for the First Communion Introduction the children to the Church’s Congregation	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
30th September 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session III- “ROSARY PRAYER” (NB. On the following Sunday 6th October at 10.15am Mass the special rosary beads are blessed and given to the children)	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
6th October 2019 SUNDAY	10.15am – Sunday Mass	Receiving THE FIRST COMMUNION ROSARY BEADS	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
14th October 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session IV- “THE TEN GOD’s COMMANDMENTS”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
28th October 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session V- “Communion of Saints; Prayer for the deceased and the Holy Souls (Purgatory)”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
4th November 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session VI- “THE SEVEN SACRAMENTS OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
18TH November 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session VII -“SACRAMENTS, SACRAMENTALIA & DEVOTIONS” The Miraculous Medals of Our Lady	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
8th December 2019 SUNDAY	10.15am – Sunday Mass	Receiving The Miraculous Medals of Our Lady	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
16th December 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session VIII- “SACRAMENT of BAPTISM”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
13th January 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session IX- “SACRAMENT of CONFESSION”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27th January 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session X- “SACRAMENT of CONFESSION – practical guide” & “FIVE necessary conditions for a good Confession”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
10th February 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XI – “SACRED HEART DEVOTION – 9 First Fridays of the Month” “Behaving in the confessional”, “ways of confessing sins”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
24th February 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XII- “INSIDE THE SACRAMENT OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST part 1 – (Measuring children for First Communion robes)	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
9th March 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XIII- “INSIDE THE SACRAMENT OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST part 2”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
23rd March 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XIV-“Structure and the meaning of the particular parts of the Holy Mass” Receiving and getting familiar with the Mass & Prayer Books which children receive during the session.	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27th March 2020 FRIDAY	6.15pm	STATIONS OF THE CROSS IN THE CHURCH	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27th April 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XV – “The Holy Body & Precious Blood of Christ”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
11th May 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session only for parents/carers – Theology of the Body	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
31st May 2020 Sunday	after 10:15am Mass	Rehearsals of the First Confession & The First Holy Communion Celebration	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
7th June 2020 Sunday	after 10:15am Mass	Rehearsals of the First Confession & The First Holy Communion Celebration	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
12TH June 2020 FRIDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Final Rehearsal Followed by the Holy Mass, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament & Benediction	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
13TH June 2020 Saturday	11.30am	FIRST SACRAMENT OF CONFESSION FOR CHILDREN	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
14TH JUNE 2020 Sunday	11:45am	FIRST HOLY COMMUNION MASS	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
21ST June 2020 SUNDAY	10:15am Mass	Receiving the Certificates of the Holy Communion	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
22ND June 2020 MONDAY	5.00pm to 6.30pm	Session XVI – Following Jesus Christ & the ways to be involved	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
28TH June 2020 SUNDAY	10:15am Mass	Thanksgiving Mass together with the previous year First Communion Children	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27TH September 2020 SUNDAY	10:15am Mass	Inaugaration of the new Preparation for the First Communion. Thanksgiving Mass and receive a special gift from Fr Marcin	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea

The next Baptismal Preparation Sessions for 2020 will appear here soon

Please, notice that it is expected from the Parents & God -Parents to practice their faith, which also means to attend Sunday Mass regularly.

Download The Baptism Registration form here:

RCIA – (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults):

Prayer of the Month – November 2019

Lord Jesus, you have come to us and you have chosen a specific land where you have shown everyone who you are, revealing the Father’s love for all his children. We pray for all those who live the drama of war, division and persecution and are discriminated against because of their faith in the Promised Land and in the countries where your Apostles announced the Gospel for the first time. May your Spirit touch the hearts of those who are capable of making the big decisions, to advance the path of dialogue and peace.

Pope’s November prayer intention: For dialogue in the Middle East

Pope Francis releases a video message accompanying his prayer intention for November, which is that interreligious dialogue and peace may reign in the Middle East. In his prayer intention for the month of November 2019, Pope Francis invites us to pray that “a spirit of dialogue, encounter, and reconciliation emerge in the Middle East.” It has become the custom of Pope Francis to release a video message detailing his prayer intention for each month. The full text of his intention is below: In the Middle East, concord and dialogue among the three monotheistic religions is based on spiritual and historic bonds. The …
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Pope Francis Prayer Intentions November 2019 -Universal – Communication and Reconciliation

Universal – Communication and Reconciliation That a spirit of dialogue, encounter and reconciliation emerges in the Near East, where diverse religious communities share their lives together. Far too many wars, political divisions, conflicts and hostilities between the diverse religious communities within the Near East have left populations scared and crippled in moral, financial and spiritual ways. This race to dominate has led to vicious murders that have little regard or respect for one’s neighbour. Local leaders have manifested horrendous attitudes of greed and thirst for power leading to domination and autocratic decision-making, manifesting little interest in what is the best …
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and for those in Our Own Parish…..

And all whose anniversaries occur at this time: 24th November 2019 : Rocislaw ‘Rudi’ Rudziak, Douglas Simpson, Erwin Furtado, Winifred Alice Evans, Antonio de Carlo, Cormac O’Connell, Elizabeth (Bet) Jane Hilda Wood, Paul Ray, Maria Mifsud, Evelyn Paulyn Tearle, Mary Bridget Moth, Mary Edwards, Ellen Challacombe, Mr Gracias, Theresa Dorothy Anwin, Mabel Alice Fairall, James Michael William Moriarty, William Daniel Scott, Ian Curtis, Florence Zait, Eva Mabel Feeney, Maureen Margaret Kennedy, Marie Connie Evans, James Bailey, John Kelly, James Albert Elwood, Tom McAniney, Harry William Glover, Patricia Eileen Holmes, Margaret ‘Peggy’ Pearce, Mary Gertrude Chapman, Caroline Marcks, Thomas Joseph McAniney, Catherine Jones, Lucy Campbell, Amy Johnson, Leonard Albermarle Betsworth, Carole Ann Howlett, Violet Annie Mabel Moss, Annie Eleanor Cox, Anthony Toni-Flanagan, Elizabeth McAuliffe, Patrick James O’Doherty, Sally Ranger, Kevin Joseph Cotter, Marie Jeanne Sheppard,Lizzie and Patrick McSharry ,Gemma Litchfield and Jozef Michalczuk.

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

“CAN-DO CHRISTIANS” A MESSAGE FROM FATHER MARCIN

Morning Prayers by Text

GOING INTO HOSPITAL?

St Swithun’s Homeless Mission

HELPING THE HOUSEBOUND and SICK AT HOME

Children’s Liturgy & Sunday School from Sept 2019

Parish Devotions this month

November Is Devoted To The Souls In Purgatory

The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us about the state of purification called purgatory (paragraph 1031). Nothing evil is allowed in Heaven. Jesus’ sacrifice is all transforming, not just a “cover up.” What I mean by this is that we believe that Christ’s sacrifice is not just making us appear to be pure, but when we really accept Him wholly we are transformed. We just need to receive Him. As imperfect, fallen humans, we might likely not enter into eternal life completely spotless, and that is why His love continues to purify us in the state of purgatory. What’s …
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Indulgences

Indulgences By the practice of Indulgences, the Church places at the charitable disposal of the faithful the inexhaustible treasure accumulated, from age to age, by the superabundant satisfactions of the saints, added to those of the martyrs, and united to those of our Blessed Lady and the infinite residue of our Lord’s sufferings. These remissions of punishment she grants to the living by her own direct power; but she nearly always approves of and permits their application to the dead by way of suffrage, that is to say, in the manner in which, as we have seen, each of the …
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Offering Prayers and Sacrifices

Offering Prayers and Sacrifices The month of November is traditionally dedicated by the Church to offer suffrages for all the faithful departed and holy souls in purgatory. A suffrage is an intercessory prayer on behalf of someone, in this case, of our dear brothers and sisters who have gone before us. Through the communion of saints, we here on earth could “expedite” the entry into heaven of all our faithful departed brothers and sisters who are still in purgatory, purifying themselves from the temporal punishment left by their sins which were already forgiven in the Sacrament of Confession, by praying for …
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Duration of Purgatory

Purgatory is not eternal. Its duration varies according to the sentence pronounced at each particular judgement. It may be prolonged for centuries in the case of the more guilty souls, or of those who, being excluded from the Catholic communion, are deprived of the suffrages of the Church, although by the divine mercy they have escaped hell. But the end of the world, which will be also the end of time, will close for ever the place of temporary expiation. God will know how to reconcile His justice and His goodness in the purification of the last members of the …
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Holy Souls in Purgatory

November is dedicated to the Poor Souls in Purgatory The month of November is dedicated to the poor souls in purgatory. All souls day falls on November 2nd, which is when we commemorate all the faithful departed. The indulgences attached to this devotion are seven years and seven quarantines each day; plenary indulgence on any day of the month under the usual conditions. The Church commemorates all her faithful children who have departed from this life, but have not yet attained the joys of heaven. Saint Paul warns us that we must not be ignorant concerning the dead, nor …
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English bishops say Catholic voters can’t ‘watch from balcony’ during UK election

SAFEGUARDING AND THE SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION

24/11/2019

Pope Francis Message – 3rd World Day of the Poor 2019

17/11/2019

Pope Francis kicks off World Day of the Poor with free healthcare for disadvantaged

16/11/2019

Our Parish Finances – we need your Help 24-11-2019

OFFERTORY:

Thank you for last Sunday’s Collection. The total amount was £1469,23 (62,15% gift aid). As always, your generosity is much appreciated. Your donations make the life and work of the Parish possible.

Thank all of You who make our church, our Parish so beautiful and alive!

NEXT WEEKEND we start ADVENT, and please support us in the SECOND COLLECTIONS through whole Advent to be a part of Open Church Project for the homeless.

Download Newsletter PDF 24-11-2019

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 – Christ the King Sunday 24th November 2019 C – Sunday 24th November 2019 Year C

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;
Pastoral Assistant: Sr Marie Elise tel: 07747 728734;
Safeguarding Representative: Mo Griffiths tel: 023 92 737559;
Safeguarding Representative: Anne Worden tel: 023 92 817586;
Parish Office Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 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

A big THANK YOU to our sponsors who contribute to our Parish costs

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

St Swithun’s Primary School Newsletter – November 22nd 2019

Welcome to the latest St Swithun’s Catholic Primary School Portsmouth newsletter. In this issue we have special Scroll down to check out lots of other bits of news, interesting readings and more…

or alternatively you can download here: Download St Swithun’s Primary School – Newsletter 22nd November 2019

Gospel & Readings

Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 24-11-2019

The Kids Bulletin: – Christ the King

For Kids – Why not read today’s Holy Readings here again: Sunday November 24th 2019 for The Feast of Christ the King

News & Events

Polish Independence Day

On Monday 11th November it was Polish Independence day. Throughout the school we all had the chance to decorate biscuits with the Polish flag. We all learnt a lot about Poland. There are many Polish children in our school. This was a really fun way to celebrate Polish Independence day. Our year 5/6 Language Ambassadors helped to organise the event. Thomas, Panthers Class Remembrance Day 11th November is also Poland’s Independence Day 1918 Please pray for Poland and our Polish Parish Priest Father Marcin Drabik: National Independence Day is the most important Polish national holiday. On November 11, 1918, after 123 …
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Year 6 PGL Trip Report

From the 4th – 8th November, some of our Year 6 children went to PGL at Osmington Bay for their residential trip. Our favourite activity at PGL was the giant swing and the zip line because it was so fun! I loved Jacob’s Ladder because it was all about teamwork which is also why I liked the giant swing. As we got higher and higher we tugged the rope. It was fun to pull the string and drop. We enjoyed PGL so much, we wish could go again! Feven and Grace, Panthers Class …
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Book Fair

This year’s book fair proved the most popular yet! The sales record was broken for the second year running. Thank you for your support – not only does the fair improve the children’s love of reading, it also raises money that we spend developing our library and improving our reading resources. Ofsted was impressed with the children’s reading; we stress its importance, encouraging children to enjoy reading but also emphasising understanding what has been read and asking questions. Our reading results are excellent but, more importantly, we are developing in the children the skills we all need to access the …
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Join and Like our FOSSS Facebook Page

MUFTI Days towards FOSSS Christmas Fayre on 7th December 2019

We will be having some Mufti Days to prepare for our Christmas Fayre which is taking place on Saturday 7th December from 11 am – 2 pm. Our mufti days will be:

- - Friday 22nd November – £1 donation and/or Jarbola Fridy 29th November – £1 donation and/or Jarbola Friday 6th December – £1 donation and/or cakes NUT FREE PLEASE!

…
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School Nursing Service – Flu / Influenza Jabs

St Swithun’s and OLOL Christmas Fair

School Notices

Letters sent by the School – 22-11-2019

School Nurse Drop-In

School Nurses are offering a drop-in for parents to discuss their child’s health. If you have any concerns about allergies, asthma, growth, sleep, or something else, please come and see the School Nurses between 9.15am and 11am on: • Thursday 14th November • Thursday 12th December …
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Sunday School after 10:15am Mass for all Children and Parents

St Swithun’s Parents and Toddlers Group 2019

Before and After School Care & INSET Day Care

We are excited to announce that our online booking system is now live! Bookings for schooll-aged children for our INSET days on 24th & 25th October are now live and ready for bookings. Bookings for all our children, including Sunbeams, for before and after school care from 4th November are to be made by you, our families, online. Instructions as to how to book will be emailed out to all our families today. If you have any difficulties booking sessions, please do email correspondence@st- swithuns.portsmouth.sch.uk. We look forward to providing a much better service to you and thank you for …
Read more here

Staff Profile

Vacancies for a Midday Assistant

Sacrament Programmes

PLEASE NOTE – FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2020 (See below for full programmes)

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2020: The new programme is published below – You will need to book an appointment with Father Marcin as well as fill in a form which will appear on line shortly or can be got from the parish office.

Date	Time	Programme	Location
9TH September 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Preliminary session for ALL- We start at 5.30pm in the church with the short Exposition & Adoration of The Blessed Sacrament & Benediction. At 6pm: we go to the hall to the Introduction Session	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
16th September 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session II- Session about “PRAYER”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
29th September 2019 SUNDAY	10.15am – Sunday Mass	Inaugaration of the new Preparation for the First Communion Introduction the children to the Church’s Congregation	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
30th September 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session III- “ROSARY PRAYER” (NB. On the following Sunday 6th October at 10.15am Mass the special rosary beads are blessed and given to the children)	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
6th October 2019 SUNDAY	10.15am – Sunday Mass	Receiving THE FIRST COMMUNION ROSARY BEADS	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
14th October 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session IV- “THE TEN GOD’s COMMANDMENTS”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
28th October 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session V- “Communion of Saints; Prayer for the deceased and the Holy Souls (Purgatory)”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
4th November 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session VI- “THE SEVEN SACRAMENTS OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
18TH November 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session VII -“SACRAMENTS, SACRAMENTALIA & DEVOTIONS” The Miraculous Medals of Our Lady	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
8th December 2019 SUNDAY	10.15am – Sunday Mass	Receiving The Miraculous Medals of Our Lady	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
16th December 2019 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session VIII- “SACRAMENT of BAPTISM”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
13th January 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session IX- “SACRAMENT of CONFESSION”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27th January 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session X- “SACRAMENT of CONFESSION – practical guide” & “FIVE necessary conditions for a good Confession”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
10th February 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XI – “SACRED HEART DEVOTION – 9 First Fridays of the Month” “Behaving in the confessional”, “ways of confessing sins”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
24th February 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XII- “INSIDE THE SACRAMENT OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST part 1 – (Measuring children for First Communion robes)	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
9th March 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XIII- “INSIDE THE SACRAMENT OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST part 2”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
23rd March 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XIV-“Structure and the meaning of the particular parts of the Holy Mass” Receiving and getting familiar with the Mass & Prayer Books which children receive during the session.	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27th March 2020 FRIDAY	6.15pm	STATIONS OF THE CROSS IN THE CHURCH	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27th April 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session XV – “The Holy Body & Precious Blood of Christ”	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
11th May 2020 MONDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Session only for parents/carers – Theology of the Body	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
31st May 2020 Sunday	after 10:15am Mass	Rehearsals of the First Confession & The First Holy Communion Celebration	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
7th June 2020 Sunday	after 10:15am Mass	Rehearsals of the First Confession & The First Holy Communion Celebration	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
12TH June 2020 FRIDAY	5.30pm to 7.00pm	Final Rehearsal Followed by the Holy Mass, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament & Benediction	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
13TH June 2020 Saturday	11.30am	FIRST SACRAMENT OF CONFESSION FOR CHILDREN	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
14TH JUNE 2020 Sunday	11:45am	FIRST HOLY COMMUNION MASS	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
21ST June 2020 SUNDAY	10:15am Mass	Receiving the Certificates of the Holy Communion	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
22ND June 2020 MONDAY	5.00pm to 6.30pm	Session XVI – Following Jesus Christ & the ways to be involved	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
28TH June 2020 SUNDAY	10:15am Mass	Thanksgiving Mass together with the previous year First Communion Children	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea
27TH September 2020 SUNDAY	10:15am Mass	Inaugaration of the new Preparation for the First Communion. Thanksgiving Mass and receive a special gift from Fr Marcin	St Swithun’s RC Church Southsea

The next Baptismal Preparation Sessions for 2020 will appear here soon

Please, notice that it is expected from the Parents & God -Parents to practice their faith, which also means to attend Sunday Mass regularly.

Download The Baptism Registration form here:

Services This Week

Class Masses

These will be normally held on Fridays at St Swithun’s Church, commencing at 10:00am. We look forward to welcoming you at your child’s class mass.

We look forward to welcoming you at your child’s class mass. Please note the change of time and place –
VIEW THE SCHOOL CALENDAR HERE

Class Assemblies

Wednesday Date	Time	Class
18th September 2019	3:10pm	Panthers
25th September 2019	3:10pm	Gorillas
2nd October 2019	3:10pm	Starfish
9th October 2019	3:10pm	Wolves
16th October 2019	3:10pm	Kangaroos
23rd October 2019	3:10pm	Seahorses
6th November 2019	3:10pm	Zebra
13th November 2019	3:10pm	Ladybird
27th November 2019	3:10pm	Dolphins
4th December 2019	3:10pm	Leopards
11th December 2019	3:10pm	Bumblebees

VIEW THE SCHOOL CALENDAR HERE

Class Liturgy

These will be held in class. Please join us at 9:15am for your child’s class liturgy.

Wednesday Date	Time	Class
13th October 2019	9:15am	Dolphins
16th October 2019	9:15am	Starfish
27th October 2019	9:15am	Seahorses
13th November 2019	9:15am	Dolphins
27th November 2019	9:15am	Seahorses

Inset Days

Please note that the dates on the Portsmouth City Council website DO NOT include our Inset days. These can be found here in our newsletters, or on our website.

- Thursday 24^th October 2019
- Friday 25^th October 2019
- Monday 24th February 2020
- Monday 29^th June 2020

Holiday Care:

Holiday care is available for the dates below plus: Please ask in the Office for booking forms or email sunandtwilight@st-swithuns.portsmouth.sch.uk.

Holiday Care Available from	to	Comments
28th October 2019	1st November 2019
		N.B. No holiday care is available on 2nd or 3rd January 2020
17th February 2020	21st February 2020
6th April 2020	17th April 2020	(Not available Friday 10th or Monday 13th April 2020)
26th May 2020	29th May 2020
Summer term dates		Summer holiday care dates for 2020 are yet to be confirmed

Useful Info

Download St Swithun’s Primary School – Newsletter 22nd November 2019

St Swithun’s Primary School Details

VIEW THE SCHOOL CALENDAR HERE

Download Newsletter PDF 24-11-2019

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 – Christ the King Sunday 24th November 2019 C – Sunday 24th November 2019 Year C

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;
Pastoral Assistant: Sr Marie Elise tel: 07747 728734;
Safeguarding Representative: Mo Griffiths tel: 023 92 737559;
Safeguarding Representative: Anne Worden tel: 023 92 817586;
Parish Office Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 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

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The Messiah’s Work - Word on Fire

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stswithuns.org.uk/newsletter-NL_08122019Keep up to date with what's going on in our Parish Mass Time Our Lady of Lourdes for 6pm Mass on Saturdays for Sunday Mass at St Swithun's RC Church Southsea. Mass Times at 8:30am , 10:15am (family mass ) and 1pm (Mass Polish)We wish you all a blessed and peaceful weekend - Father Marcin and the Parish Team ... See MoreSee Less

Newsletter:8th December 2019 - Second Sunday of Advent Cylce A

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CHRISTIAN MORNING MEDITATION:Lectio Divina: 2nd Sunday of Advent (A)Sunday, December 8, 2019John the Baptist’s proclamation in the desertMatthew 3:1-121. Opening prayerLord Jesus, send Your Spirit that I may learn to be small like Zaccheus, small in moral stature, but also grant me strength to lift myself a little from the earth, urged by the desire to see You passing during this time of Advent, to know You and to know that You are there for me. Lord Jesus, good master, by the power of Your Spirit, arouse in our hearts the desire to understand Your Word that reveals the saving love of the Father.2. Read the Word1 In due course John the Baptist appeared; he proclaimed this message in the desert of Judaea, 2 'Repent, for the kingdom of Heaven is close at hand.'3 This was the man spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, ‘A voice of one that cries in the desert, “Prepare a way for the Lord, make his paths straight.”’4 This man John wore a garment made of camel-hair with a leather loin-cloth round his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then Jerusalem and all Judaea and the whole Jordan district made their way to him, 6 and as they were baptized by him in the river Jordan they confessed their sins.7 But when he saw a number of Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism he said to them, 'Brood of vipers, who warned you to flee from the coming retribution? 8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance, 9 and do not presume to tell yourselves, "We have Abraham as our father," because, I tell you, God can raise children for Abraham from these stones. 10 Even now the axe is being laid to the root of the trees, so that any tree failing to produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown on the fire.11 I baptize you in water for repentance, but the one who comes after me is more powerful than I, and I am not fit to carry his sandals; he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 12 His winnowing-fan is in his hand; he will clear his threshing-floor and gather his wheat into his barn; but the chaff he will burn in a fire that will never go out.'3. A moment of silent prayerEach one of us is full of questions in our hearts for anyone who listens to us, but above all we need to listen, knowing that it is Jesus who is speaking to us. Allow yourself to be led to your interior self where the Word echoes in all its weight of truth and love, in all its therapeutic and transforming power. Prayerful silence demands that we remain “inside”, that we stand completely at the feet of the Lord and use all our energy to listen to Him alone. Stop and listen.4. To understand the Worda) The manner in which the plot of the passage is expressed:In this Sunday of Advent we are presented with the figure of John the Baptist, a challenging personality, as Jesus once said about John the Baptist in describing his personality: “What did you go out to see, a reed blowing in the wind?” (Mt 1:7). The profile of the Baptist that the liturgy puts before us is in two main sections: 3:1-6, the figure and activities of John; 3:7-12, his preaching. Within these two sections we may detect smaller matters that define the expression of this text. In 3:1-2 John is presented as the one who preaches «repentance» because «the kingdom of heaven is close at hand». This cry is like a thread running through the whole of John’s activity and is repeated in 3:8,12. The reason for this call to repentance is given as the imminent judgement of God which is compared to the cutting of every dry tree to be thrown into the fire to be burnt (3:10) and to the winnowing done by farmers on the threshing-floor to separate the wheat from the chaff which is also to be burnt in the fire (3:12). The image of fire which characterizes the last part of our liturgical passage shows the urgency of preparing oneself for the coming of God’s judgement.The text presents the following:Matthew 3:1-3: in this first small part «the voice crying in the desert» of Isaiah 40:2 is identified with the voice of the Baptist who invites all to repentance «in the desert of Judea»;Matthew 3:4-6: there follows a brief section which, in a picturesque manner, describes the traditional figure of John: he is a prophet and an ascetic; because of his prophetic identity he is compared to Elijah; indeed he dresses like the Tishbite prophet. A geographical and special detail describes the movement of many people who come to receive the baptism of immersion in the waters of the Jordan, in a penitential atmosphere. The influence of his prophetic activity is not limited to one place but embraces the whole region of Judea including Jerusalem and the area around the Jordan.Matthew 3:7-10: a special group of people comes to John to receive baptism, these are the «Pharisees and Sadducees». John addresses them with harsh words that they may stop their false religiosity and pay attention to «bearing fruit» so that they may avoid a judgement of condemnation.Matthew 3:11-12: here the meaning of the baptism in relation to repentance is made clear and especially the difference between the two baptisms and the two protagonists: the baptism of John is with water for repentance; the baptism of Jesus “the more powerful who comes after” John, is with the Spirit and fire.b) The message of the text:In a typical biblical-narrative style, Matthew presents the figure and activity of John the Baptist in the desert of Judea. The geographical indication is meant to situate the activity of John in the region of Judea, whereas Jesus will carry out his activity in Galilee. For Matthew, the activity of John is entirely oriented towards and subject to “the one who is to come”, the person of Jesus. Also John is presented as a great and courageous preacher who foretells the imminent judgement of God.The message of the Baptist consists of a precise imperative, “repent” and an equally clear reason: “for the kingdom of heaven is close at hand”. Repentance is foremost in the Baptist’s preaching even though at first its content is not yet clear. In 3:8, however, the fruits of repentance are revealed to give new direction to one’s existence. Such a revelation, on the one hand, is typical of prophets who wanted to make repentance as concrete as possible through a radical detachment from whatever until now was held as valuable; on the other hand, the revelation goes beyond and means to show that repentance is a turning towards “the kingdom of heaven”, towards something new which is imminent, together with its demands and prospects. It is a matter of giving a decisive turn to life in a new direction: the “kingdom of heaven” is the foundation and gives meaning to repentance and not just any human efforts. The expression “kingdom of heaven” says that God will reveal Himself to all and most powerfully. John says that this revelation of God is imminent, not distant.The prophetic activity of John, with the characteristics of the figure of Elijah, is meant to prepare his contemporaries for the coming of God in Jesus. The motifs and images through which the figure of the Baptist is interpreted are interesting, among them the leather loin-cloth around his waist, sign of recognition of the prophet Elijah (2 Kings 1:8); the garment made of camel hair is typical of the prophet according to Zacharias 13:4. This is a direct identification between the prophet Elijah and John. This interpretation is obviously an answer of the Evangelist to the objection of the Jews of the time: how can Jesus be the Messiah, if Elijah has not yet come?Through his prophetic activity, John succeeds in moving whole crowds just as Elijah had led back the whole people to faith in God (1 Kings 18). John’s baptism is not important because of the great crowds that come to receive it, but because it is accompanied by precise commitments of repentance. Besides, it is not a baptism that has the power to forgive sins. Only the death of Jesus has this power. However, it presents a new direction to give to one’s life.Even the «Pharisees and Sadducees» come to receive it, but they come in a hypocritical spirit, with no intention of repenting. Thus they will not be able to flee God’s judgement. John’s invective towards these groups, covered in false religiosity, emphasizes that the role of his baptism, if received sincerely with the decision to change one’s life, protects whoever receives it from the imminent purifying judgement of God.How will such a decision of repentance become evident? John does not give precise indications as to content, but limits himself to showing the motive: to avoid the punitive judgement of God. We could say that the aim of repentance is God, the radical recognition of God, directing in an entirely new way one’s life to God.Yet the «Pharisees and Sadducees» are not open to repentance in so far as they place their faith and hope in being descendants of Abraham: because they belong to the chosen people, they are certain that God, by the merits of the father, will give them salvation. John questions this false certainty of theirs by means of two images: the tree and the fire.First, the image of the tree that is felled: in the OT this refers to God’s judgement. A text from Isaiah describes it thus: «Behold the Lord, God of hosts, who tears the branches with deafening noise, the highest tips are cut off, the peaks are felled». The image of the fire has the function of expressing the “imminent anger” which will be manifested at God’s judgement (3:7). In a word, they show the pressing imminence of God’s coming; the listeners must open their eyes to what awaits them.Finally, John’s preaching contrasts the two baptisms and the two persons: John and the one who is to come. The substantial difference is that Jesus baptizes with the Spirit and fire whereas John only with water, a baptism for repentance. This distinction emphasizes that the baptism of John is entirely subordinate to the baptism of Jesus. Matthew notes that the baptism with the Spirit has already taken place, namely in Christian baptism, as told in the scene of Jesus’ baptism, whereas baptism with fire must still come and will take place at the judgement that Jesus will perform.The aim of John’s preaching, then, is to present a description of the judgement that awaits the community through the image of the chaff. The action of the farmer on the threshing-floor when he cleans the wheat from the chaff will also be the action of God on the community at the judgement.5. A meditationa) Expecting God and repentance:In his preaching John reminds us that the coming of God in our lives is always imminent. He also invites us strongly to a repentance that purifies the heart, renders it ready to meet Jesus who comes into the world of men and women and opens it to hope and universal love.An expression of St. John Henry Newman may help us understand this new direction that the Word of God suggests is urgent: «Here on earth to live is to change and to be perfect is to have changed frequently». To change is to be understood from the point of view of repentance: an intimate change of heart. To live is to change. If ever this urge to change grows dim, you would no longer be alive. The book of the Apocalypse confirms this when the Lord says: “You are reputed to be alive yet are dead” (3:1). Again, “to be perfect is to change frequently”. It seems that St. John Henry Newman wanted to say: «Time is measured by my repentance”. This time of Advent too is measured through the project that God has for me. I must constantly open myself, be ready to allow myself to be renewed by Him.b) Accepting the Gospel:This is the condition for repentance. The Gospel is not only a collection of messages, but a Person who asks to enter into your life. Accepting the Gospel of this Sunday of Advent means opening the door of one’s own life to the one whom John the Baptist defined as more powerful. This idea was expressed well by John Paul II: “Open the doors to Christ…” Accept Christ who comes to me with His firm word of salvation. We recall the words of St. Augustine, who used to say, “I fear the Lord who passes by”. Such a passing by of the Lord may find us at a time of life when we are distracted or superficial.c) Advent – a time for interior souls:A mystical evocation found in the writings of Blessed Elisabeth of the Trinity helps us discover repentance as a time and occasion to immerse ourselves in God, to expose ourselves to the fire of love that transforms and purifies our lives: «Here we are at the sacred time of Advent which more than any other time we could call the time for interior souls, souls who live always and in all things “hidden in God with Christ”, at the center of themselves. While awaiting the great mystery [of Christmas]… let us ask Him to make us true in our love, that is to transform us… it is good to think that the life of a priest, like that of a Carmelite nun, is an advent that prepares the incarnation within souls! David sings in a psalm that the “fire will walk ahead of the Lord”. Is not love that fire? Is it not also our mission to prepare the ways of the Lord by our union with the one whom the Apostle calls a “devouring fire”? On contact with Him our souls will become like a flame of love that spreads to all the members of the body of Christ that is the Church”. (Letter to Rev. Priest Chevignard, in Writings, 387-389).6. Psalm 71 (72)With this psalm, the Church prays during Advent to express the expectation of her king of peace, liberator of the poor and of the oppressed.Rule your people with justiceGod, endow the king with Your own fair judgement,the son of the king with Your own saving justice,that he may rule Your people with justice,and Your poor with fair judgement.In his days uprightness shall flourish,and peace in plenty till the moon is no more.His empire shall stretch from sea to sea,from the river to the limits of the earth.For he rescues the needy who call to him,and the poor who have no one to help.He has pity on the weak and the needy,and saves the needy from death.May his name be blessed for ever,and endure in the sight of the sun.In him shall be blessed every race in the world,and all nations call him blessed.7. Closing prayerLord Jesus, led by the powerful and vigorous word of John the Baptist, Your precursor, we wish to receive Your baptism of Spirit and fire. You know how many fears, spiritual laziness and hypocrisies reside in our hearts. We know that with Your fan, little wheat would be left in our lives and much chaff, ready to be thrown into the unquenchable fire. From the bottom of our hearts we pray, Come to us in the humility of Your incarnation, of Your humanity full of our limitations and sins and grant us the baptism of immersion into the abyss of Your humility. Grant us to be immersed into those waters of the Jordan that gushed out of Your wounded side on the cross and grant that we may recognize you as true Son of God, our true Savior. During this Advent take us into the desert of nothingness, of repentance, of solitude so that we may experience the love of Spring. May Your voice not remain in the desert but may it echo in our hearts so that our voice, immersed, baptized in Your Presence may become news of love. Amen.dailymeditations www.stswithuns.org.uk/event/dr-08122019 ... See MoreSee Less

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Thank you Father Markin for putting this piece of U-Tube on your site, I am a convert , and when I discovered the Ucharist one Sunday Evening at a Church here in Jersey , some 53 Years ago now , it was a ' Life Changing ' moment for me, I was at that time a lapsed Church of England person who was looking for somthing in Faith that I could nor find, until that day I went to a Catholic Church Mass , and my life changed forever, What was it that so made me fall in love with our Church ? Well I had been used to going to Mattins , and the Minister appeared to go right up to the front of the Church and have a 'Service of Prayer ' all to himself . When I first went to our Mass , The Altar was close and in front of the People , THe Priest said ' This is my Sacrifice , and yours, I was priviliged to be offered a sharing in his Ministry. I have joined the Church some 53 Years ago , and become a Lay Reader, a Eucharistic Minister many Years later ( some 20 plus Years now ) seerving in Church and Nursing Homes, and Peoples Homes. and it has been the most wonderful adventure of my Life.

stswithuns.org.uk/school-newsletter-06122019keep up to date with what's happening in our catholic primary school. Lots of exciting events happening in our local catholic school. We continue to pray for all the pupils, teachers and staff for the coming year. - Father Marcin and all at the parish team. ... See MoreSee Less

St Swithun's Primary School Newsletter - December 6th 2019

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