Newsletter: 28th February 2021 – 2nd Sunday of Lent B

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.

Service Times This Week:  from Saturday February 27th 2021 until March 7th 2021 – All Services will also be streamlined on-line

	Click here: You can find the actual daily services here: Click here: If you want the daily readings then go here:
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NOTE : PLEASE CLICK THIS LINK TO VIEW ALL SERVICE TIMES IN OUR PARISH DURING LENT

My Dear Friends, Brothers & Sisters in Christ 

The transfiguration is a matter of eyes: Jesus takes his friends up a mountain and gives them new eyes capable of looking beyond. Behind the humble humanity of the carpenter of Nazareth, they glimpse for an instant the beauty of the Son of God. The divinity revealed in that moment of light frees them from the opacity of the human condition. Jesus is preparing them for what will happen later, when they will see him humiliated and crucified, mocked and massacred. When that happens, they will be asked once again to look beyond, but they will not succeed. Only Pentecost will finally give them eyes to recognize the fullness of divinity in Jesus.

A mountain for me too – Jesus, please give me eyes to recognize you as Lord. In times of testing, lead me too up a “mountain” and illuminate the darkness of my disbelief and hopelessness. Amen

Have you ever given much thought to who you were really created to be? Our lives are the product of various circumstances, choices, predetermined scenarios, and a whole host of events and inherited baggage. All of these components come together and form the person we understand ourselves to be. Jesus knew who he was and who he was becoming. He showed his transfigured self to his disciples on a high mountain and revealed to them who he was really meant to be. The weaknesses, imperfections, fears, and impressions that we carry with us often colour our choices and hinder us from really seeing the greater picture of who we are. What do you imagine your transfigured self to be? Jesus promises a new life in heaven. Have you ever given much thought to what that may mean for you?

LET US PRAY: Lord, this Lenten season let me be transfigured. Take my life and make me your disciple. Let me learn from you by following your ways. Teach me humility, faith, and compassion. And should I fall short of your expectation Lord, please forgive me for in my heart I promise to try my best. I promise to forgive those who wrong me, just as you forgive me for my sins.

ACTION: Sundays are an excellent day to rest and take stock of our journey. Today, I will try to find an hour for myself so I can sit quietly and meditate. I will visit the chapel, an outdoor space, or a quiet room. I will think about the path I am on and the path I prefer to walk. I will ask God to show me the changes I need to make. I will work hard to make a habit of those changes.

REFLECTION

Introductory Prayer: Lord Jesus, you revealed to Peter, James and John a glimpse of your future glory in order to strengthen them for the cross. I know that you also wish to strengthen me with your presence so that I may carry my cross well and one day see you face-to-face. I entrust myself to you now through this prayer, seeking to love you with all my mind, heart, soul and strength.

Petition: Lord, show me your face.

1. Man’s Desire for God: Jesus spends much time in union with his Father through prayer. In the Gospel today he climbs the mountain to pray, as is his custom. It is an attitude that reflects man’s desire to be in contact and in union with the divine. There must have been something truly awesome in how Our Lord prayed, for his apostles ask him to teach them. They want the same intimacy they see that Jesus has with the Father. Can I truly say that I ardently long for a greater intimacy with Christ? Do I believe confidently that anyone who seeks God with a sincere heart will find him? How pleasing it is to God the Father when we, his children, turn to him in earnest, filial prayer.

2. Climbing the Mountain of Prayer: The image of the “holy mountain” is found throughout the Scriptures from Abraham to Moses, and it is often present in Jesus’ public ministry. A mountain is a physical place, but it also represents for us our seeking God’s face in prayer. Our prayer is the ascent of this “holy mountain” to an encounter with our Father. Are we prepared to make this ascent, knowing this involves setbacks and dryness along the way? The Catholic Catechism describes prayer as a battle: “Against whom? Against ourselves and against the wiles of the tempter who does all he can to turn man away from prayer, away from union with God. We pray as we live, because we live as we pray…” (CCC 2725). Am I ready to make the effort of climbing ever upwards through prayer? Do I live as I pray, and am I satisfied with that kind of praying and living?

3. The Tools for Climbing: Every good mountain climber has the tools he needs to make the ascent. We, too, have the tools we need. First, we have the Gospels themselves, which give us a clear picture of Jesus. “He who has seen me has seen the Father…” (John 14:9). Let us meditate frequently on them and ask Our Lord to reveal himself to us through them. Second, we have the sacraments, especially Penance and the Eucharist. In the former, we encounter God’s merciful love lavished upon us, restoring us to our filial relationship with him. In the latter, we receive Love himself, Jesus Christ, who has remained in the sacrament so that we could be united with him. Is my prayer well-grounded in a fervent sacramental life?

Conversation with Christ: Lord Jesus, I thank you for remaining with us in the Eucharist. It is here especially that I can go to seek your face, to know you more intimately and to grow in my love for you. Increase my love for you; may I return love for love.

Resolution: Today I will take at least five minutes of my time to seek Our Lord in prayer, asking his grace for my needs and the needs of all my loved ones.

with Blessings and prayerful best wishes, Father Marcin Drabik

Children Pray together via our Zoom Online Catholic School:

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

We will also published on our Facebook Profile every morning a prayer recorded in English & Polish for Children with daily Lenten resolution.

 Read today’s Readiings here

Commentary on Genesis 22:1-2,9-13,15-18; Romans 8:31b-35,37; Mark 9:2-10

THE STRANGE EXPERIENCE of the Transfiguration described in the Gospel took place very soon after Jesus had been recognised by his disciples as the Messiah. This acknowledgment on their part was a wonderful breakthrough and discovery in their relation with their Teacher and Master. This had been immediately followed by Jesus telling them he would be rejected by their political and religious leaders and made to suffer and die before rising the third day. It is clear that this came as a terrible shock to the disciples. Their vision of the Messiah was of a glorious, victorious king defeating all the enemies of Israel. The idea that Messiah would be rejected, made to suffer and die at the hands of his own people was simply unthinkable. It was a total contradiction of the whole concept of the Messiah as Saviour King. Now it seems that this special experience is being ...
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Dr. Scott Hahn – Gospel Reflections 28-02-2021

Bonds Loosed: Scott Hahn Reflects on the Second Sunday of Lent The Lenten season continues with another story of testing. Last Sunday, we heard the trial of Jesus in the desert. In this week’s First Reading, we hear of how Abraham was put to the test. The Church has always read this story as a sign of God’s love for the world in giving His only-begotten son. In today’s Epistle, Paul uses exact words drawn from this story to describe how God, like Abraham, did not withhold His only Son, but handed Him over for us on the Cross (see Romans 8:32; Genesis 22:12,). In the Gospel today, too, we hear another echo. Jesus is called God’s “beloved Son”—as Isaac is described as Abraham’s beloved son. These readings are given to us in Lent to reveal Christ’s identity and to strengthen us in the face of our afflictions. Jesus is shown to ...
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Children – Read today’s Holy Readings here again 28-02-2021

Catholic Kids Media  Abraham, Isaac, and Jesus Transfigured! Lent 2B -  A fun Catholic reflection for kids based on the readings for the 2nd Sunday of Lent cycle B. Support this channel on Patreon! Or on Venmo: @catholickidsmedia Contact us at: catholickidsmedia@gmail.com Children, The voice from heaven says, ”This my Son, the Beloved. LISTEN TO HIM.” Gospel: Gospel: Mark 9:2-10 This is my Son, the Beloved In Sunday’s Gospel, Mark 9:2-10 , is the Transfiguration, when three of Jesus’ disciples realised how close he was to God. Up on the mountainside, Jesus shone as bright as the sun, and was seen talking with the two great prophets, Moses and Elijah. The disciples then heard a voice say, ‘This is my chosen son. Listen to what he says!’ When it is dark, people can feel lost, frightened and alone. A torch can make us feel more confident, more assured and help us to ...
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Thoughts on Today’s Gospel and Readings for the Week – 28-02-2021

Thomas Joseph White's book “The Incarnate Lord” discusses the importance of Jesus' identity. The classical tradition of Christology understood Jesus ontologically, that is to say, in terms of his fundamental being or existential identity; whereas modern and contemporary Christology tends to understand Jesus psychologically or relationally. The transition from an ontological Christology to a consciousness Christology has conduced toward all manner of relativism, subjectivism, indifferentism, and the attenuation of evangelical zeal. Visit http://www.WordOnFire.org​ to learn more!​ Background on the Gospel Reading - Gospel: Mark 9:2-10 Jesus is transfigured in the presence of Peter, James, and John. On the second Sunday of Lent in each Lectionary cycle, the Gospel reading proclaims the story of Jesus’ Transfiguration. This event is reported in each of the Synoptic Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke. This year, in Lectionary Cycle B, we hear Mark’s report of this event. The context for Mark’s Transfiguration story is similar to that ...
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A HUGE THANKSGIVING TO ALL, WHO SHOWED THEIR INTEREST TO HELP US TO PROVIDE SUNDAY LUNCH FOR THE HOMELESS. You will be contacted to agree a particular Sunday. Thank You so much for your generous hands and merciful hearts.

Can you Sponsor Fr Marcin through Lent for the Parish?

HOW TO SPONSOR FATHER MARCIN for LENT 2021

You can send in your Sponsorship form to the parish  here. Please make a comment that it is for the Father Marcin's Lenten Challenge. We are incredibly grateful to all of You Dear Parishioners, our Guests, all the Brothers & Sisters of Christ – for your constant care of our Parish in this exceedingly difficult time. Thank You for all your prayers, voluntary work, ...
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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 ...
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St Swithuns & OLOL Parish Lenten Services 2021 – All you need to know.

My Dear Friends, Brothers & Sisters in Christ What will you do for Lent? This Lent is going to be very different! We may even think that the past 12 months have been one, continuous Lent! However, Lent is about our personal relationship with God in Prayer and in His Sacraments. We need to use the next six weeks to grow closer to God. How will you do that?... The very best way to begin Lent, obviously is to ...
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2nd Sunday of Lent Contemplating the Son of Man’s Glory

Today we are contemplating the act "whereby the three apostles Peter, James and John appear enraptured over the beauty of our Redeemer" (John Paul II): "And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no one on earth could bleach them" (Mark 9:2-3). As for us, a message has been revealed: "But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who had abolished death, and had brought life and immortality ...
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Blog Topic- Pope Jean Paul II – Veritatis splendor – The Splendor of Truth

Veritatis Splendor, one of the major encyclicals written by Pope John Paul II, addresses the question of moral truth from a Christian perspective. In response to new controversies, John Paul proposes to answer certain fundamental questions regarding the moral teachings of the Catholic Church. Issued in August 1993, "Veritatis Splendor" deals with morality--how it attracts us by its beauty, and what are its basic principles. John Paul II maintains there is no absolute freedom of conscience--that morality is something ...
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Why was Jesus transfigured?

Jesus was transfigured before his apostles to strengthen their faith and give them a foretaste of Heaven.

During Jesus’ life on earth he performed many miracles that were seen by large crowds.However, there was one miracle that he revealed only to a small group of his apostles, three to be exact. He revealed to them his heavenly glory and allowed them to glimpse the beauty of his wondrous light.

Why did Jesus do that?

...
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Hymn for Today: Transfiguration – Hillsong with Lyrics

Behind the Song Transfiguration Christianity is not about “mountain top experiences” or moving liturgical celebrations, or any paranormal encounter with the holy, as powerful and momentarily transformational these events certainly can be. Christianity is about how the terror of our lives rub up against the glory of a crucified and risen Christ, and how his dying and rising will eventually, in a lasting triumph, enter in, conquer and forever heal the scars and bruises that we receive every day, whether they come in small or large portions. This is what we mean by the often thrown-about phrase, “Paschal Mystery.” This ...
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Pope Francis – Let us be engulfed in Jesus’ on Divine Mercy 90th anniversary

Let us feel His closeness and tenderness, and then we will also be more capable of mercy, patience, forgiveness and love ... I would like to recall the words of the Lord Jesus recorded by the saint in her Diary: “Humanity will not know peace until it turns to the source of my mercy.” Pope Francis offered this reflection in a letter to the bishop of the diocese of Płock, Poland, Piotr Libera, on the occasion of the 90th anniversary of the apparition of Jesus to Saint Faustina Kowalska on February 22, 1931, in Płock. The message of Divine Mercy ...
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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 ...
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Philip Kosloski – 10 Lenten traditions you might see at Mass

Here are the reasons why some things change at Mass during Lent. During Lent the Church uses the liturgy to refocus our attention on God and to prepare our hearts to celebrate Jesus’ Passion, death and resurrection. Here are 10 traditions that you may see at Mass during Lent.

1. Why do priests wear violet during Lent?
2. Why is my priest wearing pink?
3. Why are the Gloria and Alleluia omitted during Lent?
4. Why do Catholics cover crucifixes and statues during Holy Week?
5. What is the symbolism of ashes on Ash Wednesday?
6. These powerful exorcisms are performed in parishes every year
...
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Bishop Philip Update – The Sacrament of Confirmation May 23rd 2021

Update from Bishop  Philip 15/05/2021 In two weeks’ time, we have the great feast of Pentecost and I have prepared a Message to all the candidates who on that day are going to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. It will be read at the Liturgy. Please pray for all our candidates. Confirmation is always a wonderful moment in the life of a young person and also a wonderful moment in the life of the Diocese. Last year, we had to postpone the usual arrangements for Confirmation and this year, things are still a bit different. Instead of inviting candidates here ...
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CONFESSION IS A PLACE OF VICTORY

What is the priest thinking when you make your confession? Fr. Mike reveals the answer in this video from The 99, a simple three-part system will help you quickly and easily organize an effective, ongoing evangelization effort in your parish or community. Learn more at evangelization.com Featuring Mark Hart, Fr. Mike Schmitz, Leah Darrow, Sr. Miriam James Heidland, Fr. Josh Johnson, and more, this program will kickstart a movement within the walls of your parish and beyond. The sacrament of Confession is essential for growth in holiness and in our spiritual life…. We’re not going to advance without it. Not ...
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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 ...
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The Three Pillars of Lent – Almsgiving, Prayer, and Fasting:

Giving alms, Jesus teaches, means making the needs of others our own, especially the needy of our world. They are all around us: children and the old, the sick and the suffering, families and individuals, next-door neighbours and people in lands faraway. Whatever we give should be something of ourselves, something that costs us. We will receive blessings from God in return. What shall we give to the needy this lent? In deciding, decide generously. After all, before us is the great alms Jesus gave: "He loved us, and gave himself up for us." Pope Francis said in his Ash ...
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Lent – Why Do We Practice Fasting and Abstinence?

In this video, Fr. Mike explains how prayer, fasting, and almsgiving 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. Background: Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics. In addition, Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence. For members of the Latin Catholic Church, the norms on fasting are obligatory from age 18 until age 59. When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full ...
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Keep up with what’s Happening in our Parish over this coming Year

27 February 2021

Saint Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows

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27 February 2021

Daily Devotion Saturday 27th February 2021 The Holy Family

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27 February 2021

Ascent Group Events 2021 – Alive in the Spirit

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27 February 2021

“Catholic Zoom School’ for Children” Mondays and Saturdays at 7pm

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28 February 2021

Blessed Daniel Brottier

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01 March 2021

Saint David – Patron Saint of Wales

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01 March 2021

Daily Devotion Monday 1st March 2021 Saint Joseph

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01 March 2021

“Catholic Zoom School’ for Children” Mondays and Saturdays at 7pm

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02 March 2021

Saint Agnes of Bohemia

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02 March 2021

Daily Devotion Tuesday 2nd March 2021 Saint Joseph

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02 March 2021

Facebook Only – ‘PORANNA KAWA Z MISTYKAMI’ for our Polish Community with Father Marcin

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02 March 2021

Facebook Only – Wine ‘O’ Clock Q&A with Fr. Marcin

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03 March 2021

Saint Katharine Drexel

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03 March 2021

Daily Devotion Wednesday 3rd March 2021 Saint Joseph

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04 March 2021

Saint Casimir

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04 March 2021

Daily Devotion Thursday 4th March 2021 Saint Joseph

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04 March 2021

Facebook Only – Wine ‘O’ Clock Q&A with Fr. Marcin

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05 March 2021

Saint John Joseph of the Cross

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05 March 2021

Daily Devotion Friday 5th March 2021 Saint Joseph

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05 March 2021

Facebook Only – Wine ‘O’ Clock Q&A with Fr. Marcin

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06 March 2021

Saint Mary Ann of Jesus of Paredes

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06 March 2021

Daily Devotion Saturday 6th March 2021 Saint Joseph

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06 March 2021

“Catholic Zoom School’ for Children” Mondays and Saturdays at 7pm

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07 March 2021

Saints Perpetua and Felicity

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08 March 2021

Saint John of God

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08 March 2021

Daily Devotion Monday 8th March 2021 Saint Joseph

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08 March 2021

“Catholic Zoom School’ for Children” Mondays and Saturdays at 7pm

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09 March 2021

Saint Frances of Rome

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09 March 2021

Daily Devotion Tuesday 9th March 2021 Saint Joseph

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09 March 2021

Facebook Only – ‘PORANNA KAWA Z MISTYKAMI’ for our Polish Community with Father Marcin

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09 March 2021

Facebook Only – Wine ‘O’ Clock Q&A with Fr. Marcin

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10 March 2021

Saint Dominic Savio

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10 March 2021

Daily Devotion Wednesday 10th March 2021 Saint Joseph

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11 March 2021

Saint John Ogilvie

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11 March 2021

Daily Devotion Thursday 11th March 2021 Saint Joseph

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Scroll through to see all the events happening from the 27th February 2021 till the 31st March 2021

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

“Catholic Zoom School’ for Children” Mondays and Saturdays

Update 13/02/021 Children Pray together via our Zoom Online Catholic School: Your children can join us for our Zoom online Catholic School  (PLEASE NOT: REGISTRATION IS NEED - see the form below) We will also published on our Facebook Profile every morning a prayer recorded in English & Polish for Children with daily Lenten resolution. Update 22/01/021 Thank You so much for such a good respond for our “Catholic ‘Zoom School’ for Children”. We have 61 registered children + 33 siblings who attend the classes with them (not counting their wonderful Parents/carers). Please, pray for all of us, that The ...
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Ascent Group – Events 2021 Timetable

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

To all of our Polish Community - Come and ask questions about our Catholic Faith with Father Marcin: WE are coming back toour Morning Coffee (in POLISH) for our Q&A of The Catholic Faith. This will happen every Tuesday  11:30am through our  Facebook Profile for Polish Community: St Swithuns RC Kościół Southsea. (see link below) All Polish speaking people are very welcome to send your questions or to join us to talk about the interesting things about our Catholic Faith. Everyone is welcome to join,and just join us to listen to, pray for each other and keep in touch ...
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Wine ‘O’ Clock with Father Marcin on Thursdays

Come and ask questions about our Catholic Faith with Father Marcin: WE are coming back to our evening meetings with a glass of wine (not necessary) for our Q&A of The Catholic Faith. This will happen every Thursday 8:00pm through our Facebook Profile: @Stswithuns.org.uk (see link below) Everyone is welcome to join, to send the questions about our Catholic Faith, or just join us to listen to, pray for each other and keep in touch ...
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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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THIS WEEK FOR ALL: 

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

TUESDAY at 8.00pm – general questions;
THURSDAY at 8.00pm – Subject: ‘Purgatory’.

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

TUESDAY at 11.15am

Children Pray together via our Zoom Online Catholic School:

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

Day / Time	Children Online Sessions
Mondays at 6:00pm	Children Zoom Online School IN POLISH	via Zoom Sessions - Children must be registered - Link will be sent via our Facebook page or emailed.
Mondays at 7:00pm	Children Zoom Online School IN ENGLISH	via Zoom Sessions - Children must be registered - Link will be sent via our Facebook page or emailed.
Saturdays at 7.15pm	Children Zoom Online School - our preparation for Sunday Liturgy on Saturdays	via Zoom Sessions - Children must be registered - Link will be sent via our Facebook page or emailed.

xxxx

We will also published on our Facebook Profile every morning a prayer recorded in English & Polish for Children with daily Lenten resolution.

Request to Join “Catholic ‘Zoom School’ for Children” Father Marcin, I'd like you to send me the link for the zoom prayer meetings so that my children can join the “Catholic ‘Zoom School’ for Children” Please send the registration form and zoom link to this email: I would Like our children to attend the following sessions (please check boxes that apply) Mondays at 6:00pm in Polish Mondays at 7:00pm in English Saturdays at 7:15pm in English FYI you can get the Zoom link every Monday and Saturday via our Facebook Page here at https://www.facebook.com/Stswithuns.org.uk/ Submit

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

Dear First Communion Parents –  First Communion session for Children & Parents – These will continue every Tuesday until Easter 2021   – These will be conducted through ‘ZOOM’ while the pandemic continues.. Please, check yours emails or Facebook profiles on Tuesday to find a link to join our obligatory meeting. Please note these meetings are essential for Children & Parents.

Update on the Sacrament of Confirmation :

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

• 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;

Pope Francis Prayer Intentions February 2021 – Violence against women

Universal intention - Violence against women We pray for women who are victims of violence, that they may be protected by society and have their sufferings considered and heeded. Prayer WHAT IS THE POPE’S WORLDWIDE PRAYER NETWORK? The Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network (Apostleship of Prayer) addresses the challenges facing humanity and assists the mission of the Church. We pray and work to meet the challenges of the world identified by the Pope in his monthly intentions, while walking a spiritual path called the “Way of the Heart.” What is the process in the preparation of the prepared prayer intentions? The ...
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Prayer of the Month – Pope Francis Prayer Intentions February 2021 – Violence against women

We pray,

God of love, compassion and healing, we pray to you on this International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women:

For women and girls who have experienced violent relationships, that they can find safety and healing from their trauma, and rebuild their lives;
For children who have witnessed violence in their homes against their mothers and sisters and other family members, that they will experience healing and hope;
For indigenous women and refugee women who have been impacted by extreme violence, that deep and lasting change will ensure their safety;
For individuals and organisations working to prevent violence against women and girls and help survivors of violence, that their courage and generosity will endure;
For men who speak out against forms of expression that demean women or condone violence against them, that their voices will grow stronger;
For the men and boys who have behaved violently towards women and girls that they will have a change of heart, repent in meaningful ways, and seek whatever help they need to lead changed lives.
God of love, we commend these prayers to you and for your compassion to flood the hearts of all people.
We make this prayer through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Pray for those of our Own Parish:

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

And all whose anniversaries occur at this time: 28th February 2021:  Diana Clark, David Best,Eileen Inkpen, Mary Hehir, Jo Wheeler, Shirley Parker, Dennis William Johnson, Carmen Muscat, Simon Paul Urwin, Mary Denny, Sheila Merrett, George Cowley, Bernard Donaghy, Bridget Nolan, Terry Kendal, William Lynch, Isabella Graham, Michael Collins, Anne McGowan, Wanda Gant, Suzanne Severs, Rosanna Schofield, Winifred Tripp, Catherine Henney, Johanna Davis, Leonard Hayles, Davina Cameron, Charles Cummins, Frank Hilton, Charles William Rolph, Patrick John Tyrrell, William Deary, Frances Barrett, Albert Brain, Jane Lattan, Gladys Whittle, Mary Young, May Flood, Miriam Keane, Ellen Gray, Janice Margaret Johnson, Archbishop John Henry King, William Smith, Eileen Orme, Herbert Diemer, Ann Mary Froggatt, Mary Patricia Tovey, Christine Ann Hogan (Ann), Bridget Hanvery, Florence Ellen Healey, Annie Evison, Albert Mensell, Elizabeth Mary Hawkins, Nora Parker, Lugrezia (Grace) Veronica Tynan, James Madigan, William Morgan, David Calder, Ellen Green, Percy Spicer, Hilda Clifton, Anne Woolfe, James Patrick Madigan, John Stephen Feeley, John Young (Frank), Ethel Penwell, Florence Casey, Alice Whiles, Mary Diver, Eileen Field, Mary Shute, Antoni Brown, Beatrice McIver, Hilda Lowe and Christina Perseltic Carter., ,Lizzie and Patrick McSharry ,Gemma Litchfield , Ivy Rouse , Stan Pickering and Jozef Michalczuk

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

 Community Pray:

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

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Parish Devotions this month

The month of February is dedicated to the Holy Family

The month of February is dedicated to the Holy Family. The special devotion which proposes the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph as the model of virtue of all Christian households began in the 17th century. It started almost simultaneously in Canada and France: the Association of the Holy Family was founded in Montreal in 1663, and by the Daughters of the Holy Family in Paris in 1674. This devotion soon spread and in 1893  Pope Leo XIII expressed his approval of a feast under this title and himself composed part of the Office. On account of the flight ...
Read more here

Imitation of the Holy Family

The Holy Family models for us what family life should exemplify. It is a school of virtue for both parents and children. There we find God, and learn how to connect with God and with others. The family is where love is freely given without self-interest. It is where we learn to love, to pray and to practice the gift of charity. Pope John Paul II has said, “The family, more than any other human reality, is the place in which the person is loved for himself and in which he learns to live the sincere gift of self” (Nov ...
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The Hidden Life of the Holy Family

The home of Nazareth is the school where we begin to understand the life of Jesus—the school of the Gospel. First, then, a lesson of silence. May esteem for silence, that admirable and indispensable condition of mind, revive in us...A lesson on family life. May Nazareth teach us what family life is, its communion of love, its austere and simple beauty, and its sacred and inviolable character...A lesson of work. Nazareth, home of the Carpenter's Son, in you I would choose to understand and proclaim the severe and redeeming law of human work. — Paul VI at Nazareth, January 5, ...
Read more here

Hymn for the Holy Family Catholic Telugu Song

This is a song from the Catholic Telugu song range. This is an Indian style. Why not listen ...
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Pastoral Letter from Bishop Philip 08-06-2021

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

04/06/2021

Happy Birthday to Our Catholic Church – Pentecost

19/05/2021

World Communications Day 2021 is on May 16th

08/05/2021

 

OFFERTORY: Thank you for last Sunday’s Collection.

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

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

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

Standing Order and  other useful Information

 Download Standing Order Form (PDF)

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

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

with Blessings Father Marcin Drabik

 

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Download Newsletter PDF -28-02-2021

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

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

Download this week’s Newsletter here: Newsletter Second Sunday Of Lent 28th February 2021 Year B

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Calendars

  Daily Services Calendars for all times

  Saints Calendar to learn about this weeks Saints

  Daily Reading Calendar for the prayers this week

  View All of our Parish Events Here

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PARISH CONTACTS

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

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HELP US SHARE THE GOOD NEWS!

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

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“CAN-DO CHRISTIANS” A MESSAGE FROM FATHER MARCIN

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

 

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

  Read More on our Renewal Pages here

Updated Coronavirus Safety Guidelines

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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