Jesus has Risen; truly Risen.
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A prayer for Ukraine, Russia and peaceO God, |
My Dearest Parishioners, Visitors, Friends – Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ
Christ has risen; truly risen. May the Easter morning fill your hearts with God’s blessings as well as with His joy and merciful love shinning from His Resurrection.
The “seeing and believing” of the disciples must also be our aim. We renew our paschal faith. That Christ be our Lord in everything we do. Let his Life revitalise ours and let us renew the grace of the baptism we have received. Let us become his apostles and disciples. Let us be guided by love and announce to all our happiness to believe in Christ. Let us be hopeful witnesses of his Resurrection.
So Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ Jesus has Risen; truly Risen. As St John Paul II said: ‘Do not abandon yourselves to despair. We are the Easter people and hallelujah is our song’. May the Easter Morning fill your hearts with God’s blessings as well as with His joy and love shinning from His Resurrection.
Thank You EVERYONE for your support, help – during this busy time of our most beautiful celebrations of Triduum Sacrum in the Holy Church. Thank You for all your kind cards, generous gifts, donations and Easter offering. You are just unbelievable. THANK YOU FROM WHOLE MY HEART
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with Blessings Father Simon |
REFLECTION:
Opening Prayer: Jesus, grant me a more profound hope in your powerful and creative love, a hope that never gives up or is overcome, so that I may always acknowledge your grace at work for good in all circumstances.
Encountering Christ:
Making Sense of Confusion: No one saw it happen. Yet, the Resurrection of Jesus, in the words of Pope Benedict, is “a cosmic event linking heaven and earth.” Contrast the silence of the empty tomb on that early spring morning with the chaos experienced by the people who encountered it. Some would recall Jesus mentioning he would rise from death and wonder. Others would feel disheartened, let down, or just lost by the apparent absence of Jesus. Neither Mary Magdalene nor the two apostles came to believe in the Resurrection without first experiencing confusion and uncertainty. Their running to and from the tomb suggested their inner turmoil. We learn from them that amidst the chaos in our lives we need to keep seeking Christ and await clarity.
Thankful Hope: The empty tomb can only mean that Jesus is truly alive. The empty tomb speaks to the truth that nothing is final in this life. Jesus has kept his promise, showing us that God’s love is stronger than any human power, violence, or cruelty. This understanding came slowly for Peter. We also saw Mary and the other apostles struggling to fully realize that Jesus’s promise to be raised on the third day was real. Gradually joy would come to them, and a strengthened faith would turn into thanksgiving. The truth of the Resurrection is realized by each of us in God’s time according to his plan. As we look into the empty tomb this morning, no matter what our vantage point, let’s allow our faith to express thanksgiving and hope in the Lord. He is making all things new even when we can’t see it.
Witnesses of the Resurrection: Jesus’s Resurrection is an everlasting sign of hope that gives us meaning and shapes how we live out our Christian lives. We are
witnesses to the Resurrection of Christ “when his light illuminates the dark moments of our existence, and we are able to share it with others; when we know when to smile with those who smile, and weep with those who weep; when we accompany those who are sad and at risk of losing hope; when we recount our experience of faith to those who are searching for meaning and happiness…and there–with our attitude, with our witness, with our life–we say ‘Jesus is Risen,’ with our soul” (Pope Francis, Easter message for 2022). Where is the Lord is inviting you to see the signs of the Resurrection at work in your life?
Conversing with Christ: Although no one saw the marvel of the Father’s power to raise the Lord from the dead, everyone is subject to its impact. Mary and the apostles each arrived at the empty tomb with their dazed and troubled hearts. They saw, they believed, and they were transformed into courageous, joyous apostles, spreading the news of your Resurrection far and wide. Help me to see, believe, and share the Good News as well!
Resolution: Lord, today by your grace, I will spend a moment praying about who in my life I need to reach out to and offer encouragement. With whom you are calling me to share the joy of your Resurrection?
For Further Reflection: Delve deeper into the glorious Easter Mystery with “The Tomb and the Pearl: A Retreat Guide for Easter,” a free, do-it-yourself retreat available in video, audio, and PDF formats.
Catholics have honored the last week of Jesus’ life since the Apostles. Holy Week, stretching from Palm Sunday to Holy Saturday, is a time to reflect on all that Jesus suffered for us. It is a time to worship him as our king, and remember the light he brings to a dark world.
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| Download this week's Newsletter here: | Newsletter: 17th April 2022 Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord Cycle C |
CLICK TO OPEN – A Guide To Holy Week
| Date | Location | links to readings and Services |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday 17th April 2022 Easter Sunday | St Swithuns | Click Link for Service details for today 17-04-2022 |
| Monday 18th April 2022 | St Swithuns | Click Link for Service details for today 18-04-2022 |
| Tuesday 19th April 2022 | St Swithuns | Click Link for Service details for today 19-04-2022 |
| Wednesday 20th April 2022 | St Swithuns | Click Link for Service details for today 20-04-2022 |
| Thursday 21st April 2022 | St Swithuns | Click Link for Service details for today 21-04-2022 |
| Friday 22nd April 2022 | St Swithuns | Click Link for Service details for today 22-04-2022 |
| Saturday 23rd April 2022 | St Swithuns | Click Link for Service details for today 23-04-2022 |
| Sunday 24th April 2022 1st Sunday of Easter Cycle C | St Swithuns | Click Link for Service details for today 24-04-2022 |
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
Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 17-04-2022
Read more here
Commentary on Acts 10:34a,36-43; Colossians 3:1-4 or 1 Corinthians 5:6b-8; John 20:1-18
Read more here
Dr. Scott Hahn – Gospel Reflections 17-04-2022
Read more here
Thoughts on Today’s Gospel and Readings for the Week -17-04-2022
Read more here
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT – Easter Service Times 2022 – St Swithuns & OLOL Parish
Dear parishioners please find a breakdown of the service times for Holy Week between April 10th and Sunday 17th 2022. Please observe all of the Covid safety measures as you attend these services at St Swithun's RC Church Southsea. We very much hope you will join us to celebrate this important time of the Lord's Passion and glorious Resurrection. with blessings - Fr. Simon All St Swithun's Southsea Service Times
Today, the Holy Mass starts with the palms blessing ...Read more here
A 7 Step Survival Guide for Returning to Confession
Read more here
Hymn for Today: Resurrection Hymn (See What A Morning) – Stuart Townend
Read more here
Pope Francis’ schedule of events for Holy Week 2022
Read more here
Fr Alain Bandelier – Why is Easter on a different date every year?
Read more here
The Pascal Candle
Read more here
The Easter Vigil Mass
- Service of Light,
- Liturgy of the Word,
- Liturgy of Baptism, ...
Read more here
Easter Sunday – Bishop Barron on the Resurrection of Jesus
Read more here
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.
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MARRIAGE CARE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:
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: |
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UKRAINE:
The Diocese and Caritas are working to keep parishioners informed as to the current situation. Please look at the Caritas website https://caritasportsmouth.org.uk |
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CLEANING St Swithun’s Catholic Church:
Please contact the Parish Office if you are able to support our wonderful team of cleaners. I am grateful for their support so thank you all.
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Keep up with what’s Happening in our Parish over this coming Year
Scroll through to see all the events happening from the 17th April 2022 till the 31st May 2022
URGENT APPEAL – FOOD PARCELS FOR OUR HOMELESS NEEDED IN PORTSMOUTH
Read more here
CLICK HERE – NEW SECTION: LINK TO THE LATEST PORTSMOUTH DIOCESE E_NEWSLETTER
CONFIRMATION: This has been scheduled for 14th May 2022 this year.
I am sorry that I have not been able to organise the preparation for this. The only opportunity for any instruction is limited and unsatisfactory. Due to the short notice I can only consider those who are committed in their attendance. If you would like to be considered there is no form at present, so please give me your details before Easter Day. I can be contacted at: streloar@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk. I look forward to hearing from you.
FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PROGRAMME SCHEDULE – Now till June 2022
Click here: Please find the full schedule here for the 2021-2022 First Holy Communion Programme. If you worship in this Parish please be sure to check this newsletter for further information. Attendance at Mass is an expectation and requirement.
Many thanks Fr. Simon
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 2021-22 programme is open only to children born on or before 31.8.2014)
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
Read more here
Fr. Simon – House Bound and Communion of the Sick:
Read more here
Fr. Simon – Baptism Preparation Programme 2021-22
Read more here
Universal intention – For health care workers
We pray for health care workers who serve the sick and the elderly, especially in the poorest countries; may they be adequately supported by governments and local communities.
Prayer of the Month – April 2022
Lord our God, the Creator of all things visible and invisible, hear us!
Amen
Please pray for those who are ill especially: Caroline Bennett, Robert & Eileen Steward, Louie Muscat, Tony & Julie Duffy, Brian Girling, Shelia Langford; Catherine Morgan, Pam Brown Ward, for all the children suffering and their poor families with them Aidan Molloy, David Shields, Bob Guy, Ms Sini Chacko, Kathleen & Kevin Jones, Heidi Badnell, Rosemary Devonald, Dominic, Carol Langsford, Patricia Ward, Stan Whitnell, Patrick McCreesh, Eddie Coppani, Tony Denny, Betty Foster, Bobby, Eileen Stewart, Joan Smith, John Williams, Margaret Bager, Fred Vuksani, Tom & Lily, Greta Kemp, Magda K, Mary Wallis, Micheline Thompson, Pat Needham, Margaret Badger, Anne Sullivan, Josephine Butler.
And all whose anniversaries occur at this time: 17th April 2022: 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/
The month of April is dedicated to the Holy Spirit
Read more here
Name and Titles of the Holy Spirit
Read more here
Symbols of the Holy Spirit
Read more here
The Holy Spirit and Our Spiritual Life
Read more here
Veni, Creator Spiritus (Come Holy Spirit, Creator Blest)
Read more here
Signs and Symbols
Read more here
The Holy Spirit and the Holy Eucharist
Read more here
Blog Topic: The Eucharist is ‘the School of True Love for Us’
Read More
OFFERTORY: Thank you for last Sunday’s Collection.
| SECOND COLLECTION: For the Holy Places 2022 |
Every year on Good Friday, a collection is taken up in Catholic Churches around the world to support the work of the Franciscans of the Custody of the Holy Land who have the unique responsibility of maintaining the Holy Places and preserving the Christian presence in the Holy Land. Please be generous in supporting this important service to the universal Church.
The offerings collected by the parishes across the world are sent by the Commissars of the Holy Land to the Custody of the Holy Land. Because of the pandemic and the multi-faceted challenges it entails, the Holy Land has also been affected with the lack of pilgrims and the lack of jobs to local Christians, among other things. Nonetheless, the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land has continued in its mission of service it has been entrusted.
Prayers have been intensified for the whole world at the Holy Sepulchre, in Gethsemane, in Bethlehem, in Nazareth and in the other shrines. Moreover, in the parishes, the Franciscans continue to take care of Arabic, Hebrew and Greek-speaking Christians, migrant workers and refugees. In fact, through the Terra Sancta Schools, around ten thousand children, teenagers and young people are able to benefit from a good education. In light of the situation, the Custos appeals for generosity from Christians all over the world. “Please help us again this year, according to your possibilities, according to the generosity of your heart, so that we can continue to help those in need.”
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
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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. |
Download Newsletter PDF -17-04-2022
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.
[icon name=”file-pdf-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””] Download this week’s Newsletter here: Newsletter: 17th April 2022 Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord Cycle 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.
