Newsletter: 27th March 2022 4th Sunday of Lent Year C Laetare Sunday

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

Welcome to this week’s newsletter and HAPPY MOTHERS’ DAY ! Today we celebrate the 4th Sunday of Lent. The Fourth Sunday of Lent is called Laetare Sunday, when the Church takes a bit of breather from Lenten practice and opens Mass with the Entrance Antiphon, “Rejoice, Jerusalem … Be joyful, all who were in mourning!” – taken from Isaiah 66:10. The vestments of the Sunday Liturgy will be in rose colour and reminds us of the event we look forward at the end of the penitential season and the joy in anticipation of the Resurrection.

As Pope Innocent III said: Today is the middle of Lent, so some relaxation ought to be provided, lest the faithful break down under the severity of their Lenten fasts. So rose vestments are used, flowers too. Simnel cakes (see picture) were often baked for the day. It’s also in our country Mothering Sunday – and we wish all mothers a very happy day! In medieval England, today was a holiday from work when people went home to the mother church in which they were baptised. As families gathered, they gave gifts to their mothers, hence Mothering Sunday, a day we pray for our mothers too. Please remember to say a prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary next Sunday for your mother and grandmother.

Today, Laetare (“Rejoice”) Sunday, IV of Lent, we again hear that fetching fragment of Luke’s Gospel, where Jesus justifies his unprecedented practice of forgiving sins to regain men for God. I always wondered if the expression “prodigal son”, which this parable is named after, is really understood by most people. I think we should rename it as the parable of the “Prodigious Father”. Because the Father of the parable —so moved by the return of that son ruined by sin— is indeed an icon of our Heavenly Father reflected in the face of Christ: “He was still a long way off when his father caught sight of him. His father was so deeply moved with compassion that he ran out to meet him, threw his arms around his neck and kissed him” (Luke 15:20). Jesus makes us clearly feel that any man, even the worst sinner, is so very important to God that He does not want to loose him in any way; and that He, with ineffable joy, is always willing to grant us forgiveness (even to the point of not sparing his own Son’s life).

The Fourth Sunday of Lent, also known as Lætare Sunday, from the Entrance Antiphon at Mass from Isaiah 66: Lætare, Ierúsalem, et conventum facite, omnes qui dilígitis eam; gaudete cum lætítia, qui in tristitia fuistis, ut exsultetis, et satiemini ab uberibus consolationis vestræ. (Rejoice, Jerusalem, and all who love her. Be joyful, all who were in mourning; exult and be satisfied at her consoling breast.) It is one of two days in the year when Rose coloured vestments may be used in the liturgy as we relax a little from the rigours of Lent.

Sometimes we may get upset when others, who seem less faithful, receive more blessings , knowing that this may bring them to God let us rejoice in the hope that we all will be in Heaven.

with Blessings Father Simon

REFLECTION:

Opening Prayer: Father, help me to see you more clearly through your Son’s words. Help me to know you the way he knows you—as the Father who loves me more than I can imagine and who always does everything you can to call me back to you when I have strayed.

Encountering Christ:

Let Me Tell You about My Father: Jesus would like to show us how much the Father loves us, but he doesn’t have many good examples to draw from. There were many great, virtuous men in Israelite history, but they all had flaws. None would do as an example of the Father’s love because of their shortcomings. How could he make us understand, give us at least a glimmer of the Father’s love? In the end, he invented a father in this parable–a parable we often call “The Prodigal Son” because we identify more with the younger son–but which many theologians and Scripture scholars call “The Father of Mercies” because it is the father in the parable who is the real hero.

Breaking All the Rules: Jesus went out of his way to invent a son who was the lowest of the low. This son insulted his father by asking for the inheritance before his father died—as if to say, “You’re worth more to me dead.” He then sold that same property (which the Jews considered to be entrusted to the family by God)—an unthinkable sin for the Jews. He liquefied his assets and left the Promised Land—another unthinkable sin from the point of view of the Jews. He then proceeded to squander his money on debauchery. Jesus’s listeners must have been standing there in open-mouthed amazement by the time he finished describing what the son did. They would never dream that someone could commit so many unthinkable sins so fast. The crowning moment? The son ended up feeding pigs—another unthinkable sin for the Jews. He had sunk as low as was possible in Jewish eyes.

The Father’s Reaction? Love More!: Instead of being offended by his son’s actions and turning his back on him, this father continued to love him, and do everything he could to welcome his son back. Although he knew where his son was, he didn’t send him money and gifts once things went badly for him. Instead, the father lets his son hit rock bottom in the hope that he would come to his senses—and he did! We know the father was constantly thinking of the son because he saw him while he was still far away—he must have been watching every day, hoping for his return. He cut off the son’s apology; it wasn’t important to him. Instead, he threw a feast. This is not a parable that tells us how to raise teenagers. It is a parable that tells us about our relationship with the eternal Father. When we insult him in the worst ways, he takes it. When we use his gifts to do terrible things, he allows it. When we return, sometimes more for our own well-being than for love of him, he accepts us back—not as servants, but as sons and daughters! His reaction to our sinfulness is not anger—it’s to love more.

Conversing with Christ: Jesus, too often I look at you and your Father as being like me—proud, unforgiving, more concerned with myself than with the good of others. You help me to see that your Father is not like that. Instead of putting limits on his love–as I do–he lets his love flow out more generously when he encounters a sinner like me.

Resolution: Lord, today by your grace I will look for a relationship where I have limited my love and find a way to love more.

Why is Lent 46 days and not 40? Because each Sunday is considered a Feast Day as we celebrate the death and Resurrection of Christ in the Holy Eucharist. The Gospel on the 40 days that Jesus spends in the wilderness reveals to us that when we fast and pray to draw ourselves closer to Christ, the evil one will always try to tempt us away. But like Jesus we can always use our Faith to defend ourselves against temptation.

The Stations of the Cross

Opening Prayer ACT OF CONTRITION O my God, my Redeemer, behold me here at Thy feet. From the bottom of my heart I am sorry for all my sins, because by them I have offended Thee, Who art infinitely good. I will die rather than offend thee again. Stations of the Cross - First Station: Jesus is condemned to death Leader: We adore Thee, O Christ, and bless Thee. All: Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world. After meditation: I love You, Jesus, my love above all things; I repent with my whole heart of having offended You. Never allow me to separate myself from You again. Grant that I may love You always, and then do with me what You will. On the way to the next station: At the cross her station keeping, Stood the mournful Mother weeping, Close to Jesus to the last. Stations ... Read more here

Bishop Philip writes… Lent is Coming

Bishop Philip writes... Lent is nigh! Some new resources are coming – plus an appeal for your prayers. On Wednesday 2nd March, we begin the great season of Lent - a wonderful time of 40 days when we prepare ourselves for the celebration of Easter and the Passover of the Lord from death to life. It is a time of healing when we ask God to renew within us His love. We seek by God’s grace to cast off the old ways and to take on the new, that is, to die with Christ - and to rise again with Him to new life. Lent is not simply about ‘giving things up’ or ‘doing something extra.’ St. Leo reminds us there are three saving works: (1) self-denial, fasting and mortification; (2) prayer and devotion, study and reflection; and (3) charitable outreach or almsgiving. Although these works are good in themselves, ... Read more here

The Purpose of Lent – Fr. Mike Schmitz

In this video, Fr. Mike explains how prayer, fasting, and alms-giving are the three pillars of a spiritually fruitful Lent. He then challenges us to try new ways to exercise these Lenten practices, sharing several simple strategies for drawing closer to God during this holy season. What’s the real connection between the Israelites’ forty years in the desert and the forty days of Lent? Sure, they both involve the number forty—which often represents a time of test and trial in the Bible—but what’s the more important connection? The Israelites’ time in the desert and our forty-day Lenten fast represent God’s invitation for us to trust him completely. Fr. Mike explains, the Israelites did not believe the Lord could bring them into the Promised Land because it was inhabited by a people much more powerful and larger than Israel—they didn’t trust him even after he delivered them from slavery to the ... Read more here

Fr Robert McTeigue – Lenten Journey – Why does God care about ‘little’ sins?

Lent is a time to recognize our need for a savior, and embrace our own Purgatory. How would you respond to the following? Your God—the one you say is busying managing every molecule, every galaxy at every nanosecond from the beginning of time—THAT God has an interest in what I do behind closed doors? With someone I love? Give me a break! I was watching a debate between an atheist and a defender of God; I insisted that were I present I would have instructed the atheist that the words “Give me a break!” (which he and his supporters treated as a “mic drop” moment) do not constitute an argument; but that’s another topic for another time. Nonetheless, the atheist (whom I suspect isn’t really an atheist but simply a bad theologian because he is an even worse philosopher) does raise an interesting question: “Why does God care so much ... Read more here

Fr Robert McTeigue – Lenten Journey – Commandments, sin, and Lent: Let’s ask the right questions

Commandments, sin, and Lent: Let’s ask the right questions - There's wisdom underneath the facts. “The difference between the almost right word and the right word is really a large matter. ’tis the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning” (Mark Twain). Likewise, the difference between the almost right question and the right question is really a large matter. ‘tis the difference between finding data and finding wisdom. So how does this pertain to Lent? In Lent, we talk about sin. To understand sin, we have to understand the Ten Commandments. And to understand the Ten Commandments, we have ask the right question, not the almost right question. The almost right question about the commandments is: “Are they commandments or suggestions?” That’s a pretty good question to ask, especially nowadays, when it seems that nearly every moral principle or imperative can be recast as a suggestion, a request, or a ... Read more here

Fr. Dave Mercer – A priest’s advice – Got “Catholic guilt”? It might actually be grace

If feeling guilty is the reason you’re NOT going to Confession: A priest’s advice "I already feel guilty enough about what I did. I don’t need a priest to make me feel more guilty." Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving are three spiritual practices we encourage during Lent. As part of those practices, we also encourage making a good confession. And yet, rather oddly, some people see feeling guilty as an obstacle to this sacrament.If you already feel guilty about something you have said or done, that means you recognize it as wrong. And, that’s not bad. Folks who couldn’t care less if they hurt someone are the worrisome ones. They have the bigger problem. But, back to you. The priest isn’t there to make you feel more guilty, but to help you move through your sense of guilt to being freed to live the life that God wants you to live ... Read more here

Fr Robert McTeigue – Lenten Journey – The ultimate “why” question

Lent is a great time to find the meaning and the measure of our creation. Here’s one of the most important questions you’ll ever be asked: “Why bother?” Another way of approaching the question: “Why am I here? What am I for? Does it matter if I succeed for fail?” These are always important questions to ask and answer repeatedly, but especially during the season of Lent. With the Church, I do believe that we’re made for something quite specific and that it does matter greatly whether we succeed or fail. We are made for success, and God is doing everything he can to help us so we succeed. But sometimes—and, here’s the hard part—most of us, at least some of the time, choose to fail. Maybe I can make that bitter pill easier to swallow by suggesting that Lent can help to free us from the ugly things that ... Read more here

Pray the Stations with St. Joseph

St. Joseph wasn't at Calvary, but these Stations turn to his intercession as we walk beside his Son. Pope Francis has gifted the Church the Year of St. Joseph. Maybe your Lenten focus has been to grow in a deeper appreciation for him, as universal patron of the Church and father of the Christ child. After all, his feast on March 19 falls during the season of Lent.  Perhaps, like so many, you are undertaking Fr. Calloway’s Consecration to St. Joseph or taking up some sort of devotion to St. Joseph.  What about experiencing the Stations of the Cross with St. Joseph? Maybe that seems out of place. Joseph was not at Calvary. He did not experience the Passion alongside Jesus. Yet, I believe we can parallel the life of the Holy Family to that of the Stations of the Cross and ask the intercession of St. Joseph in this traditional Lenten devotion.  Connections can ... Read more here

Philip Kosloski – How giving up something for Lent can benefit the poor

If you don't eat desserts during Lent, give the excess money to the poor. During Lent the Church encourages us to fast, pray and practice almsgiving. One way we can fulfill our commitment to almsgiving is by donating to those in need the cost of those things we’ve given up for Lent. For example, maybe each week you allot some portion of your grocery budget to sweets or desserts. During Lent you might give up those sweets and, in turn, donate the money you saved by not purchasing sweets. Here is how St. Claude de la Colombiere explains it in his book The Sufferings of Our Lord Jesus Christ. [Almsgiving] This is one of the obligations of Lent; one of the intentions with which the Church requires us to fast. Penitence must not economize to gratify avarice; what we retrench from the expenses of our table, our dress, and our amusements ought to ... Read more here

Fr Robert McTeigue – Lent is a dress rehearsal

Let's make sure we've gotten past the Sunday school concept of how to live this season. “Daddy, I used to think that I would be in my 20s forever, but then I turned 27 …” That’s part of a conversation I overheard recently. I too, was once a 20-something, and unconsciously assumed that being in one’s 20s was “standard”; then the first gray hair showed up… I think of these things as the season of Lent begins. There are so many ways of marking Lent badly—ways that are harmful. And there are some very good ways of living Lent well—ways that are often overlooked or have become obscured or forgotten over the years. Growing up, I remember hearing other children at Sunday School talking about what they would “give up” for Lent. Word had trickled down to us that as Catholics, we were supposed to deprive ourselves of something that we ... Read more here

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Download this week's Newsletter here:	Newsletter: 27th March 2022 4th Sunday of Lent Year C Laetare Sunday

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

Next Week

 Read today’s Readings here

Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 27-03-2022

Catholic Kids Media    The Prodigal Son! A fun Catholic reflection for kids based on the readings for 4th Sunday of Lent, cycle C. Support this channel on Patreon! Or on Venmo: @catholickidsmedia Contact us at: catholickidsmedia@gmail.com Gospel Reading Luke 15:1-3,11-32 Jesus teaches about forgiveness in the parable of the Prodigal Son. Sunday’s Gospel is the well-known parable of the prodigal son. A man had two sons. The younger son took his half of his father’s money and went off and spent it all. There was a famine in the country and the son became so hungry he wanted to eat the food of the pigs he tendered, but the owner would not let him have it. The son was desperate so he set off home to see his father – to say sorry, and to say that he would work as a servant in his house. When he was ...
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Commentary on Joshua 5:9a,10-12; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21; Luke 15:1-3,11-32

LENT IS A TIME FOR RENEWAL. Part of that renewal requires that we become aware of the disorder, the disharmony, the distortions in our life, in other words to become aware of the areas of sinfulness, of the evil in our behaviour. We cannot change unless we are first aware of what needs to be changed. Many of us go through life not really prepared to take a really objective look at the kind of people we are, although we may spend a good deal of time being very aware of what is wrong with others. Once aware of the areas of our lives which are ruled by negative forces like hate, anger, resentment, greed, vindictiveness, injustice or violence we need to repent. “Repent” in the Gospel calls not only for expressions of regret and sorrow; it also demands a radical change in my future behaviour, a profound change in ...
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Thoughts on Today’s Gospel and Readings for the Week -27-03-2022

Background on the Gospel Reading - Luke 15:1-3,11-32 Jesus teaches about forgiveness in the parable of the Prodigal Son. The parable Jesus tells in today's Gospel is unique to the Gospel of Luke. Jesus has been teaching the crowds as he journeys to Jerusalem. As he teaches, the Pharisees and scribes complain and challenge Jesus because he is welcoming sinners at his table. Today we hear the third of three parables that Jesus tells in response to his critics. These three familiar parables—the lost sheep, the lost coin, and today's parable of the prodigal son—invite us to consider the depth of God's mercy and love. The Pharisees taught a scrupulous observance of Jewish Law. In their interpretation and practice, observant Jews who shared table fellowship with sinners would be made unclean. Like Jesus, the Pharisees hoped to lead sinners back to God. The Pharisees, however, required that sinners first become ...
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Dr. Scott Hahn – Gospel Reflections 27-03-2022

Found Alive Again: Scott Hahn Reflects on the Fourth Sunday of Lent In today’s First Reading, God forgives “the reproach” of the generations who grumbled against Him after the Exodus. On the threshold of the promised land, Israel can with a clean heart celebrate the Passover, the feast of God’s firstborn son (see Joshua 5:6–7; Exodus 4:22; 12:12–13). Reconciliation is also at the heart of the story Jesus tells in today’s Gospel. The story of the Prodigal Son is the story of Israel and of the human race. But it is also the story of every believer. In Baptism, we’re given a divine birthright, made “a new creation,” as Paul puts it in today’s Epistle. But when we sin, we’re like the Prodigal Son, quitting our Father’s house, squandering our inheritance in trying to live without Him. Lost in sin, we cut ourselves off from the grace of sonship lavished upon us in ...
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Act Of Consecration To The Immaculate Heart Of Mary for Russia

The Vatican has sent bishops around the world the text of the prayer that Pope Francis will lead on March 25th, 2022 for the consecration of Ukraine and Russia to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The key words many in the Church have been anticipating to hear since Our Lady of Fatima requested this in 1917 are the explicit consecration of Russia by name. These words appear in the official text: “Therefore, Mother of God and our Mother, to ...
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Philip Kosloski – Can God force Russia to stop the war in Ukraine?

God respects our free will, but can perform miracles that could pierce the conscience of those involved. When praying to God for the end of the war in Ukraine, it can be tempting to ask God to force Russia to stop the bloodshed. What this would entail is God overriding the free will of the Russian soldiers and forcing them to stop the violence. However, as much as we would like God to force Russia and Ukraine into a ...
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Mothering Sunday 2022

This Sunday, 27th March, is the Fourth Sunday of Lent. It’s mid-Lent Sunday: traditionally, Laetare Sunday (‘Rejoicing Sunday’) As Pope Innocent III said: Today is the middle of Lent, so some relaxation ought to be provided, lest the faithful break down under the severity of their Lenten fasts. So rose vestments can be used, flowers too. Simnel cakes were often baked for the day. But next Sunday in England is also Mothering Sunday – and we wish all mothers ...
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An Exclusive New Interview with Bishop Barron & Fr. Mike Schmitz

Recently, Bishop Barron had the opportunity to speak with Fr. Mike Schmitz, the host of the popular podcast, The Bible in a Year, and a contributor at Ascension Presents. Their conversation spanned many topics, including vocation stories, favorite movies, arguing on social media, and what inspired their creative new approaches to the Bible. Friends, recently I had the privilege of speaking with Fr. Mike Schmitz, the host of the popular podcast “The Bible in a Year” and a contributor at ...
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Hymn for Today: “Don’t Let Go” Prodigal Son – GENTRI

Behind the Song: Just listen as these men perform 'Don't Let Go' which is a powerful song about how even in our darkest times we can still feel the love and protection of those who love us. This is a perfect reminder that God is always on our side. The lyrics and harmonies are so meaningful and when they are paired with this video, I am absolutely amazed. The video tells a story that will remind you of the parable of the prodigal son. A father and son with a broken relationship finally come to blows and the son leaves ...
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Annual Report from the Chair of the Parish Finance Committee 2020/2021

Dear fellow parishioner, Our Lady of Lourdes & St Swithun’s Financial Statements 2020/21 Through the generosity of our parishioners and extremely careful management of expenditure the parish managed to accumulate a surplus of £33,994 in the year to 31st August 2021. This despite the pandemic and the impact that this had on the finances of many. Thank you so much for your generosity. The surplus is impressive and goes some way to enable us to fund the work that needs to be carried out in the parish in the coming year. We know that we will need to invest in ...
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Bishop Robert Barron – Three Habits to Get the Most Out of Lent

Hear Bishop Robert Barron speak about the season of Lent. Lent is one of the most important periods of the liturgical year. During this time of preparation, the Church asks us to cultivate a deeper friendship with God through prayer, to control and reorder our desires for physical goods through fasting, and to show our love in a concrete way by giving alms. Bishop Robert Barron writes... Friends, we come now to one of the most important periods of the liturgical year: Lent. During this time of preparation, the Church asks us to cultivate a deeper friendship with God through ...
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Ukraine War – What Our Lady Wants Is the Consecration of Russia

War in Ukraine - Message from The Fatima Centre The current crisis in Ukraine shows us all the true urgency of fulfilling Our Lady's requests at Fatima. God always permits good to come from evil. Surely this war, especially in that area of the world specifically named by Our Lady at Fatima, will open people's minds and hearts to the truth which this Fatima Apostolate has consistently championed. The Communion of Reparation on the First Saturdays must be promoted and the Consecration of Russia must be performed. Only in this manner will there be a worldwide devotion to the Immaculate ...
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Sadly – St Swithun’s St Vincent de Paul Society is Closing.

It is with regret that after 2.5 years, the St Swithun's St Vincent de Paul Society Conference will be closing. We would like to thank all who have supported our work over this time and are grateful to have been able to help so many beneficiaries. If you know of any people who may still benefit from help from SVP, the nearest Conferences are at Sacred Heart Waterlooville, Sacred Heart Fareham and St Margaret Mary, Park Gate so please make contact with these Conferences. Lunch @ 12pm will still continue to run each Sunday and they are always looking for ...
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UPDATE: Little Way Healing Ministries Parish Healing Mission is CANCELLED

11th March 2022 Update: This event has unfortunately had to be cancelled. GREAT NEWS!! As you know, the Littleway Healing Ministry Mission in our parish had to be cancelled last year due, of course, to the Covid 19 pandemic. But we are pleased to announce that the new booking has been confirmed for the weekend of the 31st March Thursday through to Sunday 3rd April. As mentioned last year we will be asking parishioners to accommodate the Littleway Team in their houses during this weekend. Although it is a while to go, if you could put up one or even two ...
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	Stations of the Cross was led by Father Simon however Parishioners are invited to come forward for the other five Fridays to lead the Stations of the Cross for the parishioners. You can do it as a group, it doesn’t have to be on your own. There are also some reference books available, but you may have one you’d like to share. Stations of The Cross is a beautiful devotion and there is such a variety. If you would like to participate, please contact Father Simon and we can share your ideas and how to do it. Stations of the Cross is not of itself a priest led devotion anymore than saying the Rosary is pries led. There is a list in the Sacristy if you would like to put your name forward.
	St Swithun’s Catholic Primary School is delighted to announce that our pre-school is now open to 2 year olds. Please email sunbeams@st-swithuns.portsmouth.sch.uk to book a tour, or to register your child. Please share this exciting news with your friends and families.
	Mass Stipends There are a number of dates where there is not mass intention, so if you would like to have a mass said please ensure that you book one. There is a general diocesan donation level set at £7.00 although this must be understood that this is as a donation not as price. The tradition of paying a stipend was to keep the priest in victuals for the day.
	Gift Aid Envelopes for the year starting April 2022 Please collect you Gift Aid envelopes from the back of the church. Many thanks to all those who donate in this way and by standing order. Would you like to contribute in this way? If you are a tax payer we could claim 25% of your donation. Forms are at the back of the church, or please contact the parish office.

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

28 March 2022

Daily Devotion Monday 28th March 2022 Saint Joseph

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29 March 2022

Daily Devotion Tuesday 29th March 2022 Saint Joseph

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30 March 2022

Daily Devotion Wednesday 30th March 2022 Saint Joseph

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31 March 2022

Daily Devotion Thursday 31st March 2022 Saint Joseph

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01 April 2022

Daily Devotion Friday 1st April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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02 April 2022

Daily Devotion Saturday 2nd April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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02 April 2022

First Holy Communion Programme 2021-2022

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04 April 2022

Daily Devotion Monday 4th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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05 April 2022

Daily Devotion Tuesday 5th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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06 April 2022

Daily Devotion Wednesday 6th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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07 April 2022

Daily Devotion Thursday 7th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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08 April 2022

Daily Devotion Friday 8th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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09 April 2022

Daily Devotion Saturday 9th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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11 April 2022

Daily Devotion Monday 11th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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12 April 2022

Daily Devotion Tuesday 12th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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13 April 2022

Daily Devotion Wednesday 13th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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14 April 2022

Daily Devotion Thursday 14th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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15 April 2022

Daily Devotion Friday 15th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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16 April 2022

Daily Devotion Saturday 16th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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18 April 2022

Daily Devotion Monday 18th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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19 April 2022

Daily Devotion Tuesday 19th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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20 April 2022

Daily Devotion Wednesday 20th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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21 April 2022

Daily Devotion Thursday 21st April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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23 April 2022

Daily Devotion Saturday 23rd April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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25 April 2022

Daily Devotion Monday 25th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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26 April 2022

Daily Devotion Tuesday 26th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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27 April 2022

Daily Devotion Wednesday 27th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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28 April 2022

Daily Devotion Thursday 28th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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29 April 2022

Daily Devotion Friday 29th April 2022 The Holy Spirit

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Scroll through to see all the events happening from the 27th March 2022 till the 30th April 2022

Do You Want to Hire our St. Swithun’s Hall Southsea?

St. Swithun’s Hall is a great venue ! Did you know that our hall is hired out to different groups to help with the income for the parish. We have a number of different classes which may be of interest to you or perhaps you know a group who are looking to hire a hall with great facilities and a huge car park? Children’s parties; wedding receptions; engagement or Christmas parties. You can hire the hall for your party, and it is big enough to take a medium size bouncy castle. The hire cost is £19.50 per hour, and we ...
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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

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

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 a Christian response to bioethical challenges

We pray for Christians facing new bioethical challenges; may they continue to defend the dignity of all human life with prayer and action.

Prayer of the Month – March 2022

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: 27th March 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/

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Parish Devotions this month

 

Pray the Stations with St. Joseph

St. Joseph wasn't at Calvary, but these Stations turn to his intercession as we walk beside his Son. Pope Francis has gifted the Church the Year of St. Joseph. Maybe your Lenten focus has been to grow in a deeper appreciation for him, as universal patron of the Church and father of the Christ child. After all, his feast on March 19 falls during the season of Lent.  Perhaps, like so many, you are undertaking Fr. Calloway’s Consecration to St. Joseph or taking up some sort of devotion to St. Joseph.  What about experiencing the Stations of the Cross with St. Joseph? Maybe that seems ...
Read more here

Year of St. Joseph Indulgences

The Apostolic Penitentiary issues a Decree granting plenary indulgences for the year of St. Joseph proclaimed by Pope Francis on Tuesday. The special year will last from 8 December 2020 to 8 December 2021. Below is a summary of how you can receive the special indulgences granted by the Holy See for the Year of St. Joseph. Find the prayers mentioned below here. Granted by the Holy See from December 8, 2020 to December 8, 2021 The plenary indulgence is granted under the usual conditions (sacramental confession, Eucharistic communion and prayer according to the intentions of the Holy Father) to the ...
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The Month of March is Dedicated to Saint Joseph

The month of March is dedicated to St. Joseph. We don't know much about him except what is mentioned in the Gospels. Joseph was the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the foster-father of Jesus. Holy Scripture proclaims him as a "just man," and the Church has turned to Joseph for his patronage and protection. Pope Leo XIII in his encyclical Quamquam Pluries (On the Devotion to St. Joseph) in 1889 explains why we place so much trust in this saint: "Thus in giving Joseph the Blessed Virgin as spouse, God appointed him to be not only her life's companion, the witness ...
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Saint Joseph the Just Man

The Church encourages us to be devoted to Joseph because he was a model in the heroic practice of all the virtues. The example of virtuous living that he gave in the exact fulfillment of the duties of his state of life is worthy of our reflection. Read the gospel and you will see his faith, hope and charity practiced under trying circumstances. He was prudent in caring for his wife and the child; he showed great leadership in protecting them and assisting them. He was religious in every sense, with that delicacy and sincerity of conscience that is proper ...
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St. Joseph Model of Fathers

In the litany of St. Joseph, we say, “St. Joseph, Head of the Holy Family, pray for us.” There is more hidden behind this invocation than meets the eye. We know, of course, that Mary is the Virgin Mother of Jesus Christ. We know that the Saviour was not conceived of a human father. Yet the Church has never tired insisting on the fatherhood of St. Joseph in the Holy Family. It is crucially important to understand that there are two levels to fatherhood. There is the physical level of providing for the conception of a human body. In this ...
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A Time of Penance and Promise

Here and there in the stark March landscape, a few plants and trees are beginning to give evidence of the new life that winter’s frost and chill had concealed from our eyes. The Church’s vibrant new life has been obscured, too, by the austerity of the penitential season of Lent. But that life is indisputable, and it will burgeon forth on Easter as Christ coming forth from his tomb! During this month we will continue our journey to the cross with our acts of penitence. We will reflect on our mortality ("Remember man thou art dust") and the shortness of ...
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Go to Joseph

“This patronage must be invoked as ever necessary for the Church, not only as a defence against all dangers, but also, and indeed primarily, as an impetus for her renewed commitment to evangelization in the world and to re-evangelization,” wrote St. John Paul II in Redemptoris Custos ( Guardian of the Redeemer). John Paul II further said, “Because St. Joseph is the protector of the Church, he is the guardian of the Eucharist and the Christian family. Therefore, we must turn to St. Joseph today to ward off attacks upon the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist and upon the family ...
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Blog Topic: The Eucharist is ‘the School of True Love for Us’

My Dearest Brother and Sister in Christ, my Friend Last time, I tried to show You that the Holy Mass, The Eucharist is the revelation of the unfinished of God’s love towards us, and must be measured as a gift. Today, please let’s see that true love cannot be measured ...
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Blog Topic: “Mystery of the Holy Trinity”

04/06/2022

World Communications Day 2022 is on May 29th

27/05/2022

Bishop Philip – Come, Follow Me: A Ten-Year Strategy

20/05/2022

 

OFFERTORY: Thank you for last Sunday’s Collection.

Our Second Collection this Sunday is for the Clergy Assistance Fund, which resources the invaluable work of the Department for Clergy Team. The Team is responsible for looking after the welfare, ongoing formation and personal support of our clergy, from the early days of ordination all the way into retirement. As a Diocese, we are responsible for supporting the 70 diocesan clergy in active ministry, 47 from religious orders, the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham or overseas, and 53 in retirement, who with dedication and care serve our parishes, chaplaincies, schools, outreach and mission: bringing people closer to Jesus Christ through His Church. We rely on your commitment and generosity to do this. If you would like to give a gift to this collection, you can donate here: https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/clergy-assistance-fund

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 -27-03-2022

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: 27th March 2022 4th Sunday of Lent Year C Laetare Sunday

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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