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

Hospitality is exceedingly important in the biblical world in general and in Luke’s Gospel in particular. When Jesus comes to Bethany, Martha demonstrates hospitality by welcoming Jesus into the home she shares with her sister Mary. She then busies herself with the tasks of serving their guest (diakonian). Although we are not told precisely what those tasks are, a good guess is that she began preparing a meal. Meanwhile her sister Mary sits at Jesus’ feet, listening to his words. Rather than assuming the role expected of women in her culture, she takes her place at the feet of Jesus. She assumes the posture of a student learning at the feet of a rabbi, a role traditionally reserved for men.

Distraction and Worry: This pleasant story takes a sharp turn when Martha, distracted by her many tasks, comes to Jesus and asks, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me”(10:40).

Many who read or hear this story may cheer for Mary in her inversion of traditional roles. Many may also empathize with Martha’s resentment of her sister for leaving her to do all the work. Jesus’ response to Martha seems less than empathetic, chiding her for her distraction and worry, and praising Mary: “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing.* Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her” (10:41-42). The problem with Martha is not that she is busy serving and providing hospitality. Certainly Jesus commends this kind of service to the neighbor many times, notably in the parable of the Good Samaritan that immediately precedes the story of Mary and Martha. The problem with Martha is not her serving, but rather that she is worried and distracted. The word translated “distracted” in verse 40, periespato, has the connotation of being pulled or dragged in different directions.

Martha’s distraction and worry leave no room for the most important aspect of hospitality — gracious attention to the guest. In fact, she breaks all the rules of hospitality by trying to embarrass her sister in front of her guest, and by asking her guest to intervene in a family dispute. She even goes so far as to accuse Jesus of not caring about her (Lord, do you not care…?). Martha’s worry and distraction prevent her from being truly present with Jesus, and cause her to drive a wedge between her sister and herself, and between Jesus and herself. She has missed out on the “one thing needed” for true hospitality. There is no greater hospitality than listening to your guest. How much more so when the guest is Jesus! So Jesus says that Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.

Jesus’ words to Martha may be seen as an invitation rather than a rebuke. Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. The one thing needed is for Martha to receive the gracious presence of Jesus, to listen to his words, to know that she is valued not for what she does or how well she does it, but for who she is as a child of God.

The One Thing Needed: In a culture of hectic schedules and the relentless pursuit of productivity, we are tempted to measure our worth by how busy we are, by how much we accomplish, or by how well we meet the expectations of others. Preaching on this text may provide a rich opportunity to address this cultural malaise. Many people in our congregations likely identify with Martha. Feeling pulled in different directions, feeling worried and distracted by many things — these seem to be common threads of life in our fast-paced world. And yet, as Jesus says in Luke 12:25, “Can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life?” We know that worrying does no good, and that much of what we worry about is not so important in the larger scheme of things, and yet we cannot seem to quell our anxious thoughts and frantic activity. It is true that much of our busyness and distraction stems from the noblest of intentions. We want to provide for our families, we want to give our children every opportunity to enrich their lives, we want to serve our neighbors, and yes, we want to serve the Lord. Indeed, where would the church be without its “Marthas,” those faithful folk who perform the tasks of hospitality and service so vital to making the church a welcoming and well-functioning community?

And yet if all our activities leave us with no time to be still in the Lord’s presence and hear God’s word, we are likely to end up anxious and troubled. We are likely to end up with a kind of service that is devoid of love and joy and is resentful of others. Both listening and doing, receiving God’s Word and serving others, are vital to the Christian life, just as inhaling and exhaling are to breathing. Yet how often do we forget to breathe in deeply? Trying to serve without being nourished by God’s word is like expecting good fruit to grow from a tree that has been uprooted.

Luke’s story is left suspended. We do not know what happened next — whether Mary and Martha were reconciled, whether they were all able to enjoy the meal that Martha had prepared, whether Martha was finally able to sit and give her full attention to Jesus. We do know that Jesus invites all of us who are worried and distracted by many things to sit and rest in his presence, to hear his words of grace and truth, to know that we are loved and valued as children of God, to be renewed in faith and strengthened for service. There is need of only one thing: attention to our guest. As it turns out, our guest is also our host, with abundant gifts to give. (by Elisabeth Johnson)

with Blessings Father Simon

REFLECTION:

Introductory Prayer: Lord, I believe that you are my God and my all. You created me, and you made me to be happy with you. Lord, I hope in you, because I trust that you will not lead me astray. I love you, Lord, because you are the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through you, Lord, and I love you for being the mediator before the Father.

Petition: Lord, be the center, standard, and example of my life.

1. “You Are Anxious About Many Things” – It seems that things are moving faster all the time and that more and more things vie for my time. I serve as a chauffeur for the household, I spend a large part of my time accompanying the children for extracurricular activities, and people left, and right want to talk to me. There is so much going on. Our culture almost demands that I do all these things. What is more, it seems at times like no one understands my dilemma. I am trying to do what is right, I am trying to be responsible, and it looks like no one else is. I identify myself with Martha, Lord, in a world which is so active and at times seems to fly by. Help me to make the right choices and to fulfill your will.

2. “There Is Need of Only One Thing” – Love Christ. Live for him. As life progresses and eternity draws near, only the love of Christ remains. Everything else turns into smoke, mist, nothing. Christ’s love is the treasure for which I should sell everything else, even egotism, pride, and vanity. Lord, you are all I need. What else will matter when I finish my life? Who else can fill my soul with satisfaction and peace? Who else brings meaning to my life but you? Remind me of this, because many times it is so easy for me to lose my focus and direction in the world. It seems so easy for me to put other things first.

3. “Choose the Better Part” – Lord, your words to Martha strike a chord in my heart. I can let the noise and distractions around me nick at my heart and misdirect me, but all that will do is bring about more confusion and uneasiness. However, if I choose you, what great confidence it will bring me to know that you will not be taken from me. Everyone wants to be happy. Everyone wants to be fulfilled. Why should I fool myself looking for happiness in the things of this world when you supply it, Lord? Why should I settle for something less than the better part which you want to give me? Shouldn’t I be excited to be able to sit at your feet and spend time with you when you want to teach me what it means to be the best I can be; to be holy?

Conversation with Christ: Lord, give me the confidence of knowing that you are all I need. I do not want to distract myself with anything else. I want to sit at your feet. I want to listen to what you want to tell me. I want very much to learn from you.

Resolution: After Mass, I will visit Christ in thanksgiving for having received him in the Eucharist, and I will take a moment to listen to what he has to tell me.

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Download this week's Newsletter here:	Newsletter: Sunday 17h July 2022 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

Service Updates from Fr Simon

If you would like to book a Mass dedication for someone, please contact Father Simon or the parish office with the name and date.

Please be aware of the change of Daily Mass Times due to parish commitments,. As soon as Covid allows, I am hoping to leave the church open after Mass until 4pm each day, in order that people can return to private prayer.

Saturdays Mass will be at 9am and confessions will start after Mass at St Swithun and on Saturday evening in Our Lady of Lourdes from 17.15 – 17.45 or at any other time by appointment

 Read today’s Readings here

Thoughts on Today’s Gospel and Readings for the Week -17-07-2022

Father Mike Schmitz discusses the story of Martha and Mary. He addresses the common misconception that only one of these women of the Bible was doing God's will. Father Mike Schmitz discusses the story of Martha and Mary. He addresses the common misconception that only one of these women of the Bible was doing God's will. Neither Martha nor Mary were doing anything wrong when Jesus came to visit the home of Martha in Luke 10:38-42. Martha was doing a very good thing as she made preparations during Jesus’ visit, but her sister Mary chose the better part because she chose the thing that we’re going to do for eternity in heaven, just spend time with Jesus. Father Mike uses the life of Blessed Mother Teresa as an example of someone who both served Jesus in the poor and adored him in the Blessed Sacrament everyday, essentially doing the part ...
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Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 17-07-2022

Today’s Gospel is the story of Martha and Mary. Jesus visits and Martha is working hard, yet Jesus tells her that Mary has done the right thing, just by sitting down and listening. Martha feels anxious about many things, while Mary is focused on Christ. It’s easy to get worried and forget what is most important. Our lives aren’t about work. When we worry about all the little things in our lives, we are distracted from the one thing that really matters, God. When God is at the center of our lives, he shines light on everything else, and all the things we have to do. He gives us a sense of purpose. We understand what our lives mean. Martha and Mary! A fun Catholic reflection for kids based on the readings for the 16th Sunday of Ordinary Time, cycle C. Support this channel on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/catholickidsm…​ Or on Venmo: @catholickidsmedia Catholic ...
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Dr. Scott Hahn – Gospel Reflections 17-07-2022

Waiting on the Lord: Scott Hahn Reflects on the Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time God wants to dwell with each of us personally, intimately—as the mysterious guests once visited Abraham’s tent, as Jesus once entered the home of Mary and Martha. By his hospitality in this week’s First Reading, Abraham shows us how we are to welcome the Lord into our lives. His selfless service of his divine guests (see Hebrews 13:1) stands in contrast to the portrait of Martha drawn in this week’s Gospel. Where Abraham is concerned only for the well-being of his guests, Martha speaks only of herself—”Do you not care that my sister has left me by myself . . . ? Tell her to help me.” Jesus’ gentle rebuke reminds us that we risk missing the divine in the mundane, that we can fall into the trap of believing that God somehow needs to be served ...
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Commentary on Genesis 18:1-10; Colossians 1:24-28; Luke 10:38-42

One theme of today’s readings is hospitality. Hospitality is a very important element of life in the Middle East. This is not surprising, given the hostile terrain of large stretches of waterless desert and hot sun. Such hospitality for us has become a victim of modern urban living. We only open our doors to our own family or people we know well. Our houses are constantly locked, even when we are at home. There are peepholes, cameras, alarms. Strangers are no longer be trusted. One wonders if this is a step forward in our so-called civilised, cultured, developed and sophisticated society? Hospitality in Scripture The two main readings today deal with aspects of hospitality. In the First Reading from the Book of Genesis, we see Abraham. He is still a nomad, living in a tent, constantly on the move following the needs of his flocks of sheep and cattle. We ...
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Pope writes Apostolic New Papal Document on the Sacred Liturgy

Pope Francis has written an Apostolic Letter to the People of God about the sacred liturgy, in order to recall the profound meaning of the Holy Eucharist and to encourage better liturgical formation. Dated 29th June 2022, the Letter is called Desiderio Desideravi and you can read it by clicking on the picture. The Letter reaffirms the importance of ecclesial communion around the Rite of Mass that emerged from the Second Vatican Council. It is not a new instruction ...
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Pope Francis – 2nd World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly

Pope Francis established a World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly which took place for the first time on Sunday 25 July 2021. In 2022, the celebration will fall on Sunday 24 July, the Sunday closest to the Feast of Saints Joachim and Anne, Grandparents of Jesus. The theme chosen by Pope Francis for this year’s celebration is: “In old age they will still bear fruit” (Psalm 92:15).

The Catholic Grandparents Association has been at the forefront in campaigning ...
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Hymn for Today: Lyrics – Tim Hughes – God of Justice

Timothy David Llewelyn Hughes (born 23 July 1977) is a British worship leader, singer, songwriter, and Anglican priest. Formerly the director of worship at Holy Trinity Brompton, a large Anglican church in central London, he has since been ordained as a minister in the Church of England and appointed Vicar of St Luke's, Gas Street Birmingham. He leads Worship Central, an international worship training and resource centre. Tim has written a number of songs that are sung worldwide, including the Dove Award-winning Here I Am to Worship, Happy Day, Beautiful One, Jesus Saves, At Your Name, and The Way. Tim Hughes - God of Justice Stand beside the broken, we must go ...
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10 Key quotes from the Pope’s apostolic letter ‘Desiderio desideravi’

10 key quotes for every Catholic to reflect on from Pope Francis' apostolic letter on the liturgy, Desiderio desideravi. The pope’s newest apostolic letter reflects upon the meaning of baptism, our understanding of mystery, inadequate liturgical approaches, the art of celebrating the liturgy and more… Aleteia offers the following 10 selected quotes from Pope Francis’ apostolic letter Desiderio desideravi – ‘I have desired with a great desire’ (Lk 22:15) – on the liturgy, published on June 29, 2022. These ideas offer some of the text’s key ideas about our public worship. Baptism, not magic Our first encounter with his paschal deedis the event that ...
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Relics of St. Bernadette to visit Diocese

On Thursday 8th September, the Birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the relics of St. Bernadette are coming to visit the Diocese! The relics are to tour Britain from 3rd to 30th September and I’m delighted the relics of St Bernadette will be with us here in Portsmouth, in the Cathedral, on 8th September and on the morning of the 9th September 2022. More details will be available in the coming weeks but for now I invite you to save the date. Besides cathedrals and major churches the tour will include a visit to Wormwood Scrubs prison in west London, St Mary’s University ...
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Fanning the Flame Catholic Mission – 15th- 19th August 2022

Fanning the Flame Summer Camp 2022 At this year's camp we will be looking at some of the incredible miracles performed by Jesus Christ, what they reveal to us of Himself, the Word Incarnate, and how we may have new life in Him through the celebration of the Sacraments. This Catholic camp is a gathering of about 100 young people, who come together to re-connect with old friends and make new ones, to learn more about our loving God and deepen their relationship with Him. It doesn't matter where you are in your relationship with Christ, you are welcome to ...
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ORDINATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD – James Lewis – All Welcome

Deacon James Lewis is going to be ordained as a priest on Saturday 22 July 11.00am at St John’s Cathedral. Everyone is welcome. Do try and come to this occasion of grace and seek his 'first blessing’ afterwards. This is a special occasion for our Diocese ...
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Fr Simon asks for Volunteers – IF NOT YOU, WHO? IF NOT NOW, WHEN?

It has been pointed out to me that I have never asked for members of our congregation to volunteer for key roles within the parish. This is not the case. To reiterate this point, I would ask you to consider one of the following posts: • Altar Servers • Cantors to sing and help lift the liturgy • Catechists for RCIA, Baptism, First Holy Communion, Confirmation • Cleaners • Extraordinary Ministers of Communion • Finance Committee members • Flower arrangers • SVP personnel These are just some of the roles that need to be filled. Thank you. Fr Simon ...
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CONFESSION TIMES: Saturday morning after Mass at 9.45am at St Swithun’s, and 5.15pm at Our Lady of Lourdes. Confession is available after most Masses in the morning if I am not otherwise engaged, or can be by appointment if you wish. I do not want anyone to think that there is no opportunity for this most healing of the sacraments.

		DIOCESAN DAY FOR CATECHISTS – TEACHERS OF THE FAITH  Saturday 8 October in Winchester. Are you interested in teaching the faith to your friends and other parishioners? You are warmly invited to the annual day for Catechists for formation. www.pffm.org.uk/catechists
		SUSPICIOUS TEXTS  If you receive a text that purports to be from a Catholic priest asking for money or goods, please report this to the Action Fraud website www.actionfraud.police.uk, as this is a scam. Send the text number to this email address report@phishing.gov.uk.
		MARRIAGE CARE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: volunteer@marriagecare.org.uk ARE YOU GETTING MARRIED? Congratulations! Please note that you need to give a minimum of 12 months notice to the parish that you’d like to get married in. Father Simon Could you support the team at Marriage Care? They are looking for volunteer Marriage Preparation Facilitators to help prepare couples for marriage and Trustees to join the national board. Find out more about how you could help support couples: www.marriagecare.org.uk
		UKRAINE: The Diocese, through Caritas, is working to keep parishioners informed as to the current situation while we wait for the UK Government to clarify the role that faith organisations and other charities will play in the formal response to refugees entering the UK. Please look at the Caritas website for the latest news and updates on the crisis. Thank you for your continued support and prayers. Please look at the Caritas website https://caritasportsmouth.org.uk
		DURHAM UNIVERSITY CENTRE FOR CATHOLIC STUDIES On Fire course 9 – 11 SEPTEMBER 2022 Two-day conference for adults.  The Spirit of Evangelisation. Guest speakers, workshops and accommodation. See the poster at the back of the church. For more information click on https://youngcatholicadultnetwork.uk/event/on-fire-conference
		MASS INTENTIONS Please submit your Mass intentions well in advance of the date of celebration so that we can accommodate your requested date. Your support in this matter is much appreciated. Thank you.

IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR ALL HALL USERS If you would like to book the Parish Hall for a group or event, please email the details to this address
southseaparish@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

TEA AND COFFEE Please can we have some volunteers to help with refreshments after Mass. Thank you.

ST SWITHUN PATRONAL FEAST – 15 JULY:
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our special feast. It was lovely to see you all.

THANK YOU to Canon Dennehy of English Martyrs, Reading for donating his excess Mass stipends to us.

NOTE FOR THE DIARY Mrs M Thompson (our oldest parishioner) will be celebrating her 100th
birthday on Saturday 13 August, with Mass at 12.00pm. Please do come and celebrate this wonderful occasion if you can.

CHRISTIAN AID The recent collection during May raised £511.57. Many thanks for your generous support. Thank you to Anne Worden for organising it.

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

18 July 2022

Daily Devotion Monday 18th July 2022 The Precious Blood of Jesus

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19 July 2022

Daily Devotion Tuesday 19th July 2022 The Precious Blood of Jesus

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20 July 2022

Daily Devotion Wednesday 20th July 2022 The Precious Blood of Jesus

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21 July 2022

Daily Devotion Thursday 21st July 2022 The Precious Blood of Jesus

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22 July 2022

Daily Devotion Friday 22nd July 2022 The Precious Blood of Jesus

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23 July 2022

Daily Devotion Saturday 23rd July 2022 The Precious Blood of Jesus

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25 July 2022

Daily Devotion Monday 25th July 2022 The Precious Blood of Jesus

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26 July 2022

Daily Devotion Tuesday 26th July 2022 The Precious Blood of Jesus

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27 July 2022

Daily Devotion Wednesday 27th July 2022 The Precious Blood of Jesus

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28 July 2022

Daily Devotion Thursday 28th July 2022 The Precious Blood of Jesus

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29 July 2022

Daily Devotion Friday 29th July 2022 The Precious Blood of Jesus

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30 July 2022

Daily Devotion Saturday 30th July 2022 The Precious Blood of Jesus

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31 July 2022

Saint Ignatius of Loyola

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01 August 2022

Saint Alphonsus Liguori

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01 August 2022

Daily Devotion Monday August 1st 2022 The Immaculate Heart of Mary

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02 August 2022

Saint Eusebius of Vercelli

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02 August 2022

Daily Devotion Tuesday August 2nd 2022 The Immaculate Heart of Mary

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03 August 2022

Saint Peter Julian Eymard

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04 August 2022

Saint John Vianney

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05 August 2022

Dedication of Saint Mary Major Basilica

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06 August 2022

Transfiguration of the Lord

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07 August 2022

Saint Cajetan

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08 August 2022

Saint Dominic

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08 August 2022

Daily Devotion Monday August 8th 2022 The Immaculate Heart of Mary

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09 August 2022

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein)

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10 August 2022

Saint Lawrence

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11 August 2022

Saint Clare of Assisi

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12 August 2022

Saint Jane Frances de Chantal

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13 August 2022

Saints Pontian and Hippolytus

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14 August 2022

Saint Maximilian Mary Kolbe

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15 August 2022

Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary

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15 August 2022

Daily Devotion Monday August 15th 2022 The Immaculate Heart of Mary

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16 August 2022

Saint Stephen of Hungary

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17 August 2022

Saint Joan of the Cross

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18 August 2022

Saint Louis of Toulouse

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Scroll through to see all the events happening from the 17th July 2022 till the 31st August 2022

Safeguarding Representatives in our Parish

IMPORTANT NEWS : SAFEGUARDING IN OUR PARISH: The Catholic Church takes the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults very seriously and volunteers have had to undergo clearance via the UK's Disclosure and Barring Service for over 15 years, as well as completing training. OUR PARISH SAFEGUARDING MINISTERS Any safeguarding concerns or requests for advice can be discussed with Anne Worden 023 9281 7586 and Teresa Rowe 023 9281 8295 or routed through to the central Diocesan safeguarding team by emailing them at safeguarding@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk or telephoning02394 216486. If there is a concern that someone is at risk of immediate harm, people ...
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URGENT APPEAL – FOOD PARCELS FOR OUR HOMELESS NEEDED IN PORTSMOUTH

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

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2022: The Applications to register for the preparation for The First Sacrament of Confession & Holy Communion are available in the sacristy after Sunday Masses

Note the form will appear online shortly (The 2022-23 programme is open only to children born on or before 31.8.2015)

UPDATE ON BAPTISM REQUESTS  & CLASSES

Baptism classes can be arranged with me via the parish office. Please call at front door at the front door of 105 Waverley Road. You can also email me at: streloar@portsmouthdicoese.org.uk

Please complete the baptism form and bring it to the parish office as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. Blessing Father Simon

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

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

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

Fr. Simon – First Communion Programme 2021-2022 Schedule

First Communion Programme for 2021-2022 Schedule - (see below for links to resources) We are pleased to announce that the First Communion programme will start on November 27th 2021. We plan to meet at St Swithun's in the Church on Saturdays at 1:30p,m for those children who are being prepared for this wonderful sacrament. Brian & Linda McCreesh will be leading the programme for the Parish. You can find their contact details below. There will be a WhatsApp group started for parents once the programme gets underway. You can register your child for the programme by either contacting the parish ...
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Fr. Simon – House Bound and Communion of the Sick:

This is available if requested to those who are unable to attend church as they would have normally done. We would like to keep and improve this important link for those who are ill. Volunteer will need to have Safeguarding approval and training will be given. We are keen to have more volunteers for this worthwhile ministry. Please leave your details with the priest or office by email where possible. Thank you. God's Blessings from Father Simon Email: southseaparish@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk ...
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Fr. Simon – Baptism Preparation Programme 2021-22

Baptism Classes for St Swithun's  & Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Update: 22-10-2021 Baptism classes had a nil attendance last week, which was disappointing. I will be available from 1800 at the presbytery this coming Tuesday 26th October, so if you have given me a form for baptism, please ensure you attend or notify me with your apology. Update: 17-10-2021 There will be classes for those wishing to have their child baptised beginning at 6pm on 19th October at the presbytery, please ensure that you have completed and returned your form prior to the meeting. Further details can be found ...
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Universal intention – For the elderly

We pray for the elderly, who represent the roots and memory of a people; may their experience and wisdom help young people to look towards the future with hope and responsibility.

Prayer of the Month – July 2022

Dear Lord, Father of young and old alike, teach us to honor those of our brothers and sisters who began their walks of faith before us and who continue on their journeys home to You. Guide us to see every person, regardless of age, as your precious and beloved child.

Give us the grace to reach out to those quietly in need among us and to be Your hands and feet for them. Through prayer and acts of service, help us to see Your face in the elderly in our families, neighborhoods, and churches. Help us to slow our pace of living and to appreciate the gift of these lives. We know that You make all things new, and so we ask that You call us to new friendships whose fruit will last.

You have given each of Your children gifts with which to serve You. May we recognize these gifts in ourselves and in others, so that together, we can build Your kingdom.

St. Anna, St. Simeon, Sts. Anne and Joachim, pray for us.

Amen.

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

And all whose anniversaries occur at this time: 17th July 2022: Caroline Bennett, Diana Clark, David Best,Eileen Inkpen, Mary Hehir, Jo Wheeler, Shirley Parker, Dennis William Johnson, Carmen Muscat, Simon Paul Urwin, Mary Denny, Sheila Merrett, George Cowley, Bernard Donaghy, Bridget Nolan, Terry Kendal, William Lynch, Isabella Graham, Michael Collins, Anne McGowan, Wanda Gant, Suzanne Severs, Rosanna Schofield, Winifred Tripp, Catherine Henney, Johanna Davis, Leonard Hayles, Davina Cameron, Charles Cummins, Frank Hilton, Charles William Rolph, Patrick John Tyrrell, William Deary, Frances Barrett, Albert Brain, Jane Lattan, Gladys Whittle, Mary Young, May Flood, Miriam Keane, Ellen Gray, Janice Margaret Johnson, Archbishop John Henry King, William Smith, Eileen Orme, Herbert Diemer, Ann Mary Froggatt, Mary Patricia Tovey, Christine Ann Hogan (Ann), Bridget Hanvery, Florence Ellen Healey, Annie Evison, Albert Mensell, Elizabeth Mary Hawkins, Nora Parker, Lugrezia (Grace) Veronica Tynan, James Madigan, William Morgan, David Calder, Ellen Green, Percy Spicer, Hilda Clifton, Anne Woolfe, James Patrick Madigan, John Stephen Feeley, John Young (Frank), Ethel Penwell, Florence Casey, Alice Whiles, Mary Diver, Eileen Field, Mary Shute, Antoni Brown, Beatrice McIver, Hilda Lowe and Christina Perseltic Carter., ,Lizzie and Patrick McSharry ,Gemma Litchfield , Ivy Rouse , Stan Pickering and Jozef Michalczuk

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

 Community Pray:

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

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Parish Devotions this month

 

Month of the Precious Blood of Jesus

The Precious Blood of Jesus "The Precious Blood which we worship is the Blood which the Saviour shed for us on Calvary and reassumed at His glorious Resurrection; it is the Blood which courses through the veins of His risen, glorified, living body at the right hand of God the Father in heaven; it is the Blood made present on our altars by the words of Consecration; it is the Blood which merited sanctifying grace for us and through it washes and beautifies our soul and inaugurates the beginning of eternal life in it." In the past, the feast of ... Read more here

The Old fulfilled in the New Covenant

Sacrifice is the highest form of religious worship which man offers to God as an act of praise, thanksgiving, petition or atonement.The most singular and pre-eminent sacrifice of the Old Law was the immolation of the Paschal Lamb which celebrated the sparing of Israel's firstborn from the fatal sword of the Angel of Death in Egypt at the time of Moses and Pharaoh. The imagery of sacrificial blood from slain animals is made more vivid and meaningful if we recall Moses' words from the Book of Exodus, "And he took the blood and sprinkled it upon the people, and he said: ... Read more here

The Devotion to the Precious Blood

This devotion is one of the most ancient of pious Church practices. It is said that the Blessed Virgin venerated the Most Precious Blood of her infant Son on the day of His circumcision as she collected the first relics of His Precious Blood on a piece of cloth. On that momentous occasion she united her tears with that of the Word Incarnate on account of not so much of the sensible pain but of His supernatural sorrow for the hardheartedness of mortals. Devotion to the Precious Blood is not a spiritual option, it is a spiritual obligation, and that not ... Read more here

The Symbol of the Precious Blood

Adam is sleeping an ecstatic sleep. God opens his side, removes a rib and forms Eve, the mother of all the living. But our view transcends this action and in spirit we behold the second, the divine Adam, Christ. He is sleeping the sleep of death. From His opened side blood and water flow, symbols of baptism and the Eucharist, symbols of the second Eve, the Church, the Mother of all the living. Through blood and water Christ willed to redeem God's many children and to lead them to an eternal home. At Jerusalem a service in Yahweh's honour is taking ... Read more here

The Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ

The New Testament Catholic doctrine teaches the faithful that the blood of Jesus Christ is part of His Sacred Humanity and hypostatically united to the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity. And as such, it is worthy of adoration and veneration proper to latreutical worship (cultus latriae) which is rendered only to God. In other words, we adore the human nature of Christ because of its intimate and eternal union with the Person of the Divine Word. • It is for this same reason that we honour the Most Sacred Heart or the Wounds of Our Lord Jesus Christ. The ... Read more here

Pope writes Apostolic New Papal Document on the Sacred Liturgy

Pope Francis has written an Apostolic Letter to the People of God about the sacred liturgy, in order to recall the profound meaning of the Holy Eucharist and to encourage better liturgical formation. Dated 29th June 2022, the Letter is called Desiderio Desideravi and you can read it by clicking ...
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Blog Topic: The Eucharist is ‘the School of True Love for Us’

14/06/2022

Blog Topic: “Mystery of the Holy Trinity”

04/06/2022

World Communications Day 2022 is on May 29th

27/05/2022

 

OFFERTORY: Thank you for last Sunday’s Collection.

 

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

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

You can donate via the button on the Parish website – or here 

Standing Order and  other useful Information

 Download Standing Order Form (PDF)

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

with Blessings Canon Simon Treloar

Thank you as always for all the gifts, food and toilets for our HOMELESS people, who our Parish minister for. Thank You for all your care and generosity. Please, leave your gifts and donations in the sacristy of the church. Thank You.

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Download Newsletter PDF -17-07-2022

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: Sunday 17h July 2022 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

PARISH CONTACTS

• PARISH PRIEST: Canon Simon Treloar
• tel: 02392 828305 – please leave a message
• email: streloar@portsmouthdicoese.org.uk
• Address: 105 Waverley Road, Southsea, PO5 2PL;
• Safeguarding Minister: Teresa Rowe  tel: 023 92 818295;
• Safeguarding Minister: Anne Worden  tel: 023 92 817586;
• Parish Secretary: Mrs Kathleen Jones
• Parish Office Hours: Tues, Thurs and Friday, 8.00am –12.30pm. tel: 02392 828 305
  email: southseaparish@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk
• Parish website: http://www.stswithuns.org.uk  
• Facebook Profile: @Stswithuns.org.uk

 

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

  Read More on our Renewal Pages here

Updated Coronavirus Safety Guidelines

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

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

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

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