Christmas Special Newsletter

+

Saint Mary’s Roman Catholic Church

Catlow Hall Street, Oswaldtwistle

Lancashire

BB5 3EZ

 

Parish Priest: Rev. Fr. S D O’Brien

Parish Administrator: Ciara Kelly

Tel: 01254-232433

Email: stmarysoswaldtwistle@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

 

 

Christmas Special Newsletter

 

HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO ALL & EVERYONE!

Thank you to every parishioner who has helped to make this holy season such a prayerful and joyful celebration. From musicians and singers, readers and cleaners; from our church garden angels and altar servers; from Christmas tree and crib decorators to our saintly stewards and generous raffle prize donors — and to all who faithfully fill the pews — thank you. Each act of service, whether seen or unseen, has helped to make our parish a true place of welcome, worship and community. To each and every one of you: a very big thank you, and may God bless you abundantly.

 

Masses & Liturgies for the following TWO weeks ...

 

Wednesday 24^th December

9am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

5pm Carols Around the Crib

5:30pm Christmas Eve Family Mass

 

Thursday 25^th December

9:30am Carols around the Crib

10am Christmas Day Mass

 

Friday 26^th December

10am Mass, Saint Stephen, Martyr (Feast)

St. Stephen was the first martyr to shed his blood for Christ, as witness to the newly revealed love of God. ‘...The love that Christ brought down from heaven to earth, lifted Stephen from earth to heaven.’ - The Office of Readings

 

Saturday 27^th December

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Holy Family of Jesus

 

Sunday 28^th December

9:30am The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

10am Mass for the Holy Family of Jesus

 

Thursday 1^st January 2025

10am Mass, The Solemnity of Holy Mary, Mother of God

At the end of Mass there will be, as always, the opportunity for our Saint of the year to choose us from the basket. (See below for details)

 

Friday 2^nd January

5pm – 5:50pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

6pm Mass, Saints Basil the Great & Gregory of Nazianzen, Bishops & Doctors of the Church (Memoria)

St. Basil the Great & Saint Gregory Nazianzen were close friends and great figures of the Eastern Church in the fourth century. Basil was Bishop of Caesarea and active in promoting the monastic life, writing a "rule" which is still observed today. Gregory was Bishop of Constantinople and because of his great learning is still known in the East as "Gregory the Theologian"; he eventually retired from the episcopacy to return to his monastery in Nazianzus. Gregory summed up their lives: 'Our great concern, our great name, was to be Christians and be called Christians."

 

Saturday 3^rd January

9am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

10am The Most Holy Name of Jesus (Memoria)

The greatest promoters of this devotion were St Bernardine of Siena and St. John Capistrano, who used the monogram of the Holy Name in their preaching. Because the manner in which St. Bernardine preached this devotion was new, he was accused before Pope Martin V, but was successfully defended by John. This feast reminds us that the word "Jesus" means "God saves", and our salvation comes through Christ alone.

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass of Second Sunday of Christmas

 

Sunday 4^th January

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Mass for The Second Sunday of Christmas

 

Tuesday 6^th January – HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION

10am Mass, Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord & Blessing of Epiphany Chalk

5pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

6pm Mass of the Epiphany of the Lord & Blessing of Epiphany Chalk

 

Wednesday 7^th January

10am Requiem Mass for William ‘Bill’ Finn RIP

 

Thursday 8^th January

9:30am Christmas Weekday Mass

 

Friday 9^th January

5pm – 5:50pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

6pm Christmas Weekday Mass

 

Saturday 10^th January

9am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Sacrament of Confession

10am Votive Mass of Our Lady (Celebrated in Lady Chapel)

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass of The Baptism of the Lord

 

Sunday 11^th January

9:30am The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

10am Mass of The Baptism of the Lord

4pm St Mary’s Volunteers Jacobs Joint (See below for details)

 

 

Sanctuary Lamp

This week (27^th December – 2^nd January) the Sanctuary Lamp is for Linda & David Usborne.

Next week (3^rd January – 9^th January), the Sanctuary Lamp is for Joe & Agnes Duggan.

 

Our Lady’s Lamp

This week (27^th December – 2^nd January) Our Lady’s Lamp is for Stanley Nicholas Bury.

Next week (3^rd January – 9^th January), Our Lady’s Lamp is for Raymond & Claire Hilton.

 

New Year Saints!

On New Year’s Day, following Mass, we’ll continue our annual “Saints in a Basket” tradition. Parishioners are invited to come forward to the sanctuary and, after making the Sign of the Cross, to allow a saint to choose them from the basket. Throughout 2026, these saints will become our patrons and companions — our brothers and sisters in faith. Through their prayers, they will support and encourage us through the joys and challenges of the year ahead, and through their lives they will teach and inspire us to be faithful disciples and to draw ever closer to Our Lord. Please don’t let your saint remain simply a name on a piece of paper or a New Year novelty. Take time to learn about them: find or print an image, read about their life, and ask for their intercession regularly. They desire to walk with you and to pray for you. When we honour the saints, we give glory to God, their Father and Creator, who has worked such holiness in their lives.

 

The Epiphany Proclamation of Easter and the Moveable Feasts — 2026

The proclamation of the date of Easter and the other moveable feasts on the Feast of the Epiphany dates back to a time when calendars were not widely available. It was therefore important that the faithful were informed of the date of Easter well in advance, as many of the Church’s celebrations throughout the liturgical year depend upon it. The number of Sundays following Epiphany, the date of Ash Wednesday, and the length of the season after Pentecost are all calculated in relation to Easter. Although modern calendars now provide these dates years ahead, the Epiphany Proclamation continues to hold great significance. It reminds us of the central place of the Resurrection of the Lord in the Church’s year and draws our attention to the great mysteries of faith that are celebrated throughout the liturgical year.

The Moveable Feasts for 2026

Ash Wednesday — 18th February

Easter Sunday — 5th April

The Ascension of the Lord — Thursday 14th May

Pentecost Sunday — 24th May

Corpus Christi — Sunday 7th June

First Sunday of Advent — 29th November

 

Blessing of Epiphany Chalk

In various parts of the world, the Epiphany is marked with the time-honoured tradition of "chalking the doors." The formula for the ritual is simple: take chalk of any colour (ideally blessed by a priest on the Feast of the Epiphany) and write above the entrance of your home: 20 + C + M + B + 24

The letters have two meanings. First, they represent the initials of the Magi - Caspar, Malchior and Balthazar - who came to visit Jesus in the place where he was born. They also abbreviate the Latin phrase, Christus mansionem benedicat, which translates as "May Christ bless the house."  The "+" signs represents the cross, and the "20" at the beginning and the "24" at the end mark the year. This inscription is a request for Christ to stay with those who dwell or work therein throughout the entire year. At the weekend Masses of the Epiphany I will bless any chalk that people would like to bring so that they can carry out this wonderful tradition.

 

Thanksgiving Jacob’s Join for All Parish Volunteers

On Sunday 11th January at 4.00pm, all parish volunteers are warmly invited to gather for a Service of Thanksgiving, followed by a Jacob’s Join. This occasion provides an opportunity to express my sincere thanks to everyone who, throughout the past year and continuing into the present, has so generously given their time, talents and skills for the life of our parish family. From readers, stewards, sacristans and servers; to cleaners, gardeners and gritters; from singers and musicians, flower arrangers and counters; to catechists and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion — these are just some of the many roles carried out week by week at St Mary’s. Without the dedication and generosity of our volunteers, parish life simply could not flourish. I therefore warmly invite all who volunteer in any capacity to come together, bring a contribution for the Jacob’s Join, and celebrate in thanksgiving the extraordinary works of faith that take place in our church each day. For any volunteer roles not specifically mentioned, my apologies — there are so many. And to those who are unable to attend on the day: thank you, and may God bless you abundantly.

 

Interested in Knowing More About the Catholic Faith or Simply Wanting to Reconnect?

If you are curious about the Catholic faith, please know that you will always find an open door here at St Mary’s. We offer opportunities for those who have no previous experience or knowledge of the Catholic faith, as well as for those who may have lapsed in practice and would like to reconnect, especially if the circumstances of life have changed and faith is once again calling. Whether you are simply asking questions, seeking a deeper understanding, or hoping to return to the practice of the faith, you will be met with welcome, patience, and support. To find out more or to begin a conversation, please contact Fr O’Brien through the Parish Office: stmarysoswaldtwistle@dioceseofsalford.org.uk .You will always be welcome at St Mary’s.

 

Parish Bible Study

Here at St Mary’s, we warmly invite you to join our Parish Bible Study, which takes place every other Wednesday from 7.00pm to 8.00pm in the church. Everyone is welcome — whether you are very familiar with the Bible or opening it for the first time. No prior knowledge is needed, just a willingness to listen, share, and grow in faith together. During January, we will be exploring the Acts of the Apostles, walking alongside the men and women of the early Church as they live out their faith in the Lord Jesus, encountering both the ordinary and extraordinary moments of discipleship. All you need to bring is a Bible and an open heart. As St Jerome reminds us: “Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ.” For more information, please contact the Parish Office: stmarysoswaldtwistle@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

 

 

 

Follow St Mary’s on social media to stay up to date with Mass times, parish news and upcoming events.

 

Fourth Sunday of Advent - Sunday 21st December 2025

+

Saint Mary’s Roman Catholic Church

Catlow Hall Street, Oswaldtwistle

Lancashire

BB5 3EZ

 

Parish Priest: Rev. Fr. S D O’Brien

Parish Administrator: Ciara Kelly

Tel: 01254-232433

Email: stmarysoswaldtwistle@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

 

 

Sunday 21^st December 2025

Fourth Sunday of Advent

Masses & Liturgies for the following week ...

 

 

Friday 19^th December

5pm – 5:45pm Adoration of Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

6pm Advent Weekday Mass

 

Saturday 20^th December

9am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

10am Advent Weekday Mass

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Fourth Sunday of Advent

 

Sunday 21^st December

9:30am The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

10am Mass for the Fourth Sunday of Advent

 

Tuesday 23^rd December

5pm – 5:50pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

6pm Advent Weekday Mass

 

Wednesday 24^th December

9am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

5pm Carols Around the Crib

5:30pm Christmas Eve Family Mass

 

Thursday 25^th December

9:30am Carols around the Crib

10am Christmas Day Mass

 

Friday 26^th December

10am Mass, Saint Stephen, Martyr (Feast)

St. Stephen was the first martyr to shed his blood for Christ, as witness to the newly revealed love of God. ‘...The love that Christ brought down from heaven to earth, lifted Stephen from earth to heaven.’ - The Office of Readings

 

Saturday 27^th December

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Holy Family of Jesus

 

Sunday 28^th December

9:30am The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

10am Mass for the Holy Family of Jesus

 

Sanctuary Lamp

This week (20^th December – 26^th December), the Sanctuary Lamp is for Fussell & Beveridge Families.

 

Our Lady’s Lamp

This week (20^th December – 26^th December), Our Lady’s Lamp is for Gertrude & Richard Henry, and Cathleen & John Paul Haworth.

 

Last Week’s Offertory Collection

£658.11. Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

Help Needed in Preparation for Christmas

As we prepare to celebrate the joy of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, we are asking for a little help from our parish family to ensure that St Mary’s is ready to welcome everyone safely and beautifully.

Church Cleaning – Tuesday 23rd December at 9.00am

We are looking for volunteers to help with a general clean of the church. Tasks include hoovering, mopping, cleaning the pews and dusting. Any time you are able to give will be greatly appreciated, and there will of course be a morning brew for all who generously offer their help.

Car Park Stewards – Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

We also need at least two volunteers to help in the car park on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. This role involves helping parishioners find available parking spaces and gently guiding people to the church via the Hawthorn Avenue public pathway, rather than the paved slope from the car park, which can become slippery.

If you are able to help with any of these roles, even for a short time, please contact the Parish Office: stmarysoswaldtwistle@dioceseofsalford.org.uk or call the parish office on ( (01254) 232 433. Thank you, as always, for your generosity of time and spirit as we prepare to welcome the Christ Child.

 

Parish Christmas Raffle – Thank You!

A heartfelt thank you to all those who have so generously donated prizes for this year’s parish Christmas raffle. We have been overwhelmed by your kindness and generosity. Thanks to the wonderful number of prizes already received, we are no longer able to accept any further donations. Raffle tickets are still on sale after all weekend Masses and will continue to be available up to the last weekend of December. Tickets are £1 each or £5 per strip, and all proceeds go directly towards parish maintenance, helping to support and care for our church. Thank you once again for your generosity and continued support of St Mary’s.

 

Rock Salt & Muscle Power!

If you are passing a garden centre, petrol station, or anywhere selling rock salt or grit, and are able to donate a bag for the church, it would be very gratefully received. Any bags can be left outside at the rear of the church building, near the bins. We also rely on the precious gift of people’s time and energy to help spread and scatter grit on icy or frosty days, especially before Masses and other liturgies, so that everyone can enter and leave the church safely. If you are able to help in any way, please contact:

Navada Keenan — keenannavada@gmail.com or Karen Beard, Parish Housekeeper — jakey9998@aol.com. Thank you for helping to keep our parish family safe during the winter months.

Bishop John's message for Caritas: Bee-ing there this Christmas
Demand for our diocesan charity Caritas Salford's services is greater than ever as more and more people in our diocese experience poverty, homelessness and discrimination.  If you haven't seen their Bee There Advent appeal yet, which asks if you are able to help support people locally, you can read more at www.caritassalford.org.uk/BeeThere 
Bishop John has recorded a special message to tell us more about why it's so important, especially at this time of year: www.caritassalford.org.uk/bishop-john-christmas-25/

 

 

Gaudete Sunday of Advent - Sunday 14th December 2025

+

Saint Mary’s Roman Catholic Church

Catlow Hall Street, Oswaldtwistle

Lancashire

BB5 3EZ

 

Parish Priest: Rev. Fr. S D O’Brien

Parish Administrator: Ciara Kelly

Tel: 01254-232433

Email: stmarysoswaldtwistle@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

 

 

Sunday 14^th December 2025

Third Sunday of Advent

Masses & Liturgies for the following week ...

 

 

Friday 12^th December

5pm – 5:45pm Adoration of Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

6pm Advent Weekday Mass

 

Saturday 13^th December

9am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

10am Mass, Saint Lucy, Virgin & Martyr (Memoria)

St. Lucy, a Sicillian martyr who died in the persecution of the fifth century under the Emperor Diocletian. She is an example of faithfulness and innocence, and her cult was very popular in the early church.

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Gaudete Sunday of Advent

 

Sunday 14^th December

9:30am The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

10am Mass for the Gaudete Sunday of Advent

 

Tuesday 16^th December

5pm – 5:50pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

6pm Advent Weekday Mass

 

Wednesday 17^th December

9:15am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

10am Advent Weekday Mass

6:30 Christmas Church Decorating

 

Thursday 18^th December

9:15am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

10am Advent Weekday Mass

 

Friday 19^th December

5pm – 5:45pm Adoration of Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

6pm Advent Weekday Mass

 

Saturday 20^th December

9am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

10am Advent Weekday Mass

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Fourth Sunday of Advent

 

Sunday 21^st December

9:30am The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

10am Mass for the Fourth Sunday of Advent

 

 

Sanctuary Lamp

This week (13^th December – 19^th December), the Sanctuary Lamp is for John and Gladys Boyle.

 

Our Lady’s Lamp

This week (13^th December – 19^th December), Our Lady’s Lamp is for John and Gladys Boyle.

 

Last Week’s Offertory Collection

£673.28. Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

A Word of Thanks from Fr O’Brien

I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all those parishioners who joined us on Monday for the beautiful celebration of the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception and for the parish prayer of consecration to Our Lady. It was a grace-filled evening of Adoration, the Holy Rosary, and the Holy Mass, and your presence made it a true act of faith and love for our parish. I am confident that, under Mary’s maternal protection, St Mary’s will receive blessings far greater than we can see or imagine. Our consecration to the Blessed Mother is a reminder that she accompanies us, intercedes for us, and leads us ever more surely to her Son, Jesus. My sincere thanks as well to the many families who have welcomed the parish statue of Our Blessed Mother into their homes and prayed the Rosary for the intentions of St Mary’s. Your generosity and devotion are a gift to our whole parish community. In a

special way, I thank the following families:

The Owen Family, The Burton Family, The Davit Family, The Peake Family, The

Radigan Family, The Yates Family, The Flanagan Family, The Whelan Family, The

Clarke Family

May Our Lady continue to watch over you and your households with her tender care. Let us remain united in prayer as we walk together in faith, hope, and charity. Fr O’Brien

 

Family Night – Decorating the Church for Christmas

We warmly invite all parishioners, families, and friends to join us for our Christmas Church Decorating Evening on Wednesday 17th December at 6:30pm. This has become a much-loved parish tradition and is a wonderful way to prepare our church—and our hearts—for the celebration of the Lord’s birth.  There will be plenty to do: putting up the Christmas trees, dusting down the crib figures, polishing window ledges and altars, and adding those small touches that make our church so beautifully festive. As Scripture reminds us, “the labourer deserves his wages,” so everyone who comes is guaranteed an Irish coffee, a glass of fizz, and a mince pie—well-earned or simply enjoyed for the craic! Whether you’re decorating or simply soaking up the atmosphere, everyone is welcome. Please bring neighbours, friends, and relatives—this is very much a parish family social night. Come along, share in the laughter and warmth, and help us make the church shine for Christmas.

 

Confession Times at St Mary’s, Oswaldtwistle

Throughout Advent, Confession will also be available in our parish:

Fridays: 5:00pm – 5:50pm

Saturdays: 9:00am – 9:50am

Let this holy season be a time of forgiveness, renewal, and joyful return to the Lord who loves us.

 

St Mary’s Christmas Raffle – Donations Welcome

As we prepare for the joyful season of Christmas, we are once again organising our Annual Parish Christmas Raffle, to be drawn at the New Year’s Day Mass. We are kindly asking for donations of bottles of wine or fizz, boxes of chocolates, or tins of biscuits to help make up the prizes. All contributions, big or small, are very gratefully received. Tickets: £1 each or £5 for a strip

Where to buy: Available from the stewards at Mass

Where to leave donations: Please leave any donated items at the stewards’ desk

All proceeds from the raffle go directly towards supporting our parish. Thank you, as always, for your continued generosity and support.

 

Christmas Window Displays

We are delighted that Maureen Mullen, with her wonderful team of helpers, has once again kindly offered to create the beautiful Christmas window displays that have become such a cherished tradition in our parish. These are decorative window displays, bring a joyful festive atmosphere to our church each year. If you would like to sponsor a window in honour of your family, friends, or in memory of a loved one, Maureen will be available after the Sunday 10:00am Mass to take names. The suggested donation for sponsoring a window is £20. As always, any additional donations towards general Christmas flowers or decorations are very gratefully received. Please place contributions in an envelope marked Christmas Flowers or pass them to one of the stewards.

 

Marriage

Retrouvaille helps marriages. It can bring hope and healing to relationships. Next date: 12th February 2026. www.retrouvaille.org.uk Tel: 07887 296983

 

 

Sanctuary Lamp & Our Lady Lamp – 2026 Sponsorship

Prayer is powerful, and at St Mary’s we are blessed with the tradition of sponsoring the Sanctuary Lamp, which burns continuously for seven days before the Real Presence of the Lord in the Tabernacle. From January 2026, there will once again be the opportunity to sponsor the lamp in the Lady Chapel, placed beside the statue of Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle. Each lamp burns for a particular intention—sometimes in memory of a loved one, for someone who is sick or awaiting results, or as a prayer of thanksgiving or petition in a difficult situation. Whatever the intention, these lamps are a beautiful expression of faith and love within our parish family. If you would like to sponsor a lamp—either before the Blessed Sacrament or in the Lady Chapel—please speak to one of the stewards at the back of church. They will have the full list of available dates from January to December 2026, and you may choose any week still open. The donation for sponsoring a lamp is £10 for the week. I will bless and light each sponsored lamp before the Saturday Vigil Mass, and it will burn throughout the week for your chosen intention. The lists will be available from this weekend: Friday 12th December, Saturday 13th December, and Sunday 14th December. Both the lists and the collection of donations will be handled by the stewards at the back of church. Thank you for supporting this meaningful and prayerful tradition in our parish.

 

Building & Maintenance Update

We would like to keep parishioners informed about some upcoming essential maintenance works. Over the years, there has been partial maintenance carried out on the drainage system around the church and presbytery. However, the Diocesan Property Department has advised that a full and detailed site investigation is now required to properly assess the condition of the drains serving the church, the presbytery, and the surrounding grounds. The diocesan-appointed chartered surveyor, Mr Lee Sloan, is overseeing this work on our behalf. After reviewing several options, he identified Dyno Rod Plumbing and Drain Services as providing the most suitable and cost-effective proposal. The planned works will involve:

• The High Pressure Water Jetting and CCTV/Trace Combined Unit being deployed to investigate the entire drainage system
• Accessing each outlet using hydraulic lifting equipment
• Cleansing the drainage lines to ensure clear visibility
• An updated detailed CCTV survey to assess the structural condition of the system. The previous CCTV report St. Mary’s commissioned was in 2019 and since then there has been further deterioration to the drains.
• A full report and recommendations for any further remedial work

The total approved cost for this investigation is £1,100 + VAT, funded as part of our ongoing property maintenance. These actions will hopefully begin in the New Year. Once the report is received, we will update the parish on any subsequent steps that may be required.

 

Caritas Salford Advent Appeal

Our diocesan charity, Caritas Salford, has released its 2025 Advent appeal to shine the spotlight on the true meaning of Christmas. To watch their latest animation and to find out more about how to help local people who are facing acute crisis this Christmas, please visit: https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/campaign/bee-there-2025/

 

Advice as energy bills continue to rise

If you or those in your wider parish community are in need of support with rising energy bills, Caritas Salford has put together some helpful advice on their website. Their energy advice service team can support with free sessions and drop-ins in your area. You can find out more by visiting www.caritassalford.org.uk/energysupport

 

Christmas Celebrations at St Mary’s- Please Save the Dates

As we look forward to the joyful celebration of the Nativity of Our Lord, here are the times for our Christmas liturgies. Please pop these dates into your diaries and join us as we gather in faith, hope, and gratitude.

Christmas Eve – Wednesday 24th December

Carols Around the Crib – 5:00pm

A gentle and family-friendly time of carol singing and reflection as we prepare our hearts for the birth of Jesus.

Family Christmas Eve Mass – 5:30pm

A joyful celebration of the Lord’s birth, especially welcoming to children and families.

 

Christmas Day – Thursday 25th December

Carols Around the Crib – 9:30am

Come early and join in singing traditional carols as we gather at the manger of Christ.

Christmas Day Mass – 10:00am

The solemn and joyful celebration of Christmas morning. Let us come together as a parish family to welcome the Light of Christ into our hearts and homes this Christmas.

 

St Mary’s RC Primary School Admissions

The Governing Body of St Mary’s RC Primary School is consulting on changes to the school’s admission categories for the 2027/28 academic year. These proposed changes will affect pupils starting their first year in September 2027. The full admission policy is available on https://www.stmarysoswaldtwistle.co.uk/admissions/ . The consultation runs from Friday 5th December 2025 to Friday 30th January 2026. Any objections must be submitted in writing to Mr. David Joyce, Chair of Governors, by 3.30pm on 30th January 2026. The Governing Body will consider any objections before deciding whether to implement the changes.

 

Salford Diocesan Synod

As Advent ushers in a new liturgical year, the Diocesan Synod Implementation Group offers a brief update on progress since the March 2025 Synod Voting Day, where 40 recommendations were prioritized under Leadership & Collaboration, Spirituality & Formation, Young People & Schools, and Community & Outreach—supported by Inclusion and clergy-engagement sub-groups. The emerging vision for a synodal Church in Salford centres on six themes: prayer, listening, and renewal as the heart of Eucharistic life; welcoming, inclusive, and accessible communities celebrating diversity; participation and representation through diverse leadership and formation; young people and families fully engaged in faith and service; collaboration and resources shared among all; and outreach, dialogue, and healing with compassion for survivors and interfaith ties. The Group will advance strategies in 2026 to realise this Holy Spirit-guided path.

 

Relics of St Carlo Acutis to Visit Diocese of Salford

In January, the relics of St Carlo Acutis will be hosted at two of our churches over five days, during which time the Diocese will welcome schools, parishioners and people from all over for veneration. Carlo is the first millennial saint and is celebrated for his profound faith and his use of the internet to log Eucharistic miracles from around the world. He was passionate about spreading the teachings of the Catholic Church up until his death from leukaemia at the age of 15. The relics will be presented at St Mary’s Church, Burnley from 28-29 January 2026 before they travel to St Patrick’s Church,  Collyhurst from 30 January to 1 February 2026. More information will be shared soon with parishes and on the Diocesan website and social media channels.

 

Laudato Si Centre Volunteer Call-out: Retired Educators

The Diocese of Salford Environment Team is inviting retired education staff to volunteer at the Laudato Si Centre to assist with their successful programme of school visits. Volunteers would be supporting sessions with children from nursery age to Year 11 with activities including arts and crafts, games, and foraging. To find out more, please email laudatosi@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

 

St. Mary's Oswaldtwistle, Parish Consecration to Our Lady

🌟 Tonight at St Mary's – Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception 🌟

All are warmly invited!

This evening (Monday 8th December), we celebrate the beautiful Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception — a feast of joy, hope, and grace for our whole parish.

🕯 Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament – 6:00pm

🌹 Holy Rosary – 6:30pm

✝️ Solemn Mass – 7:00pm with the Act of Consecration of our Parish to Our Lady

Over the past few weeks, so many parish families have welcomed the statue of Our Lady into their homes or prayed a daily Rosary for St Mary's. Tonight we bring all those prayers together. As we honour Our Blessed Mother, we will entrust our parish to her loving care — asking her to intercede for us, guide us, and help our community grow, thrive, and be renewed in faith, hope, and charity.

Come and join us as we place our parish into the hands of Our Lady and seek her motherly protection for the year ahead.

All are welcome.
Let us gather as one family under the mantle of Mary.

Second Sunday of Advent - Sunday 7th December

Saint Mary’s Roman Catholic Church

Catlow Hall Street, Oswaldtwistle

Lancashire

BB5 3EZ

 

Parish Priest: Rev. Fr. S D O’Brien

Parish Administrator: Ciara Kelly

Tel: 01254-232433

Email: stmarysoswaldtwistle@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

 

 

Sunday 7^th December 2025

Second Sunday of Advent

 

Masses & Liturgies for the following week ...

 

Friday 5^th December

5pm – 5:45pm Adoration of Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

6pm Advent Weekday Mass

 

Saturday 6^th December

9am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

10am Mass, Saint Nicholas, Bishop (Memoria

St. Nicholas was bishop of Myra, in what is now Turkey; he died in the fourth century in Eastern Europe. "Saint Nicholas" distributes presents to children on this day, in remembrance of his charity and care as a bishop.

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for the Second Sunday of Advent

 

Sunday 7^th December

9:30am The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

10am Mass for the Second Sunday of Advent

 

Monday 8^th December

6pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

7pm Mass, The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Solemnity) and Consecration of St Mary’s Parish

‘The most Blessed Virgin Mary, in the first instant of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege granted by almighty God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the human race, was preserved free from all stain of original sin.’ - Pope Pius IX

 

Tuesday 9^th December

5pm – 5:50pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

6pm Advent Weekday Mass

 

Wednesday 10^th December

9:15am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

10am Mass, Our Lady of Loreto (Memoria)

The shrine of Our Lady of Loreto recalls the Holy House of Nazareth which, by ancient tradition, was transported there miraculously.

 

 Thursday 11^th December

9am Advent Weekday Mass

 

Friday 12^th December

11am Funeral Service James Cowley RIP

5pm – 5:45pm Adoration of Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

6pm Advent Weekday Mass

 

Saturday 13^th December

9am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

10am Mass, Saint Lucy, Virgin & Martyr (Memoria)

St. Lucy, a Sicillian martyr who died in the persecution of the fifth century under the Emperor Diocletian. She is an example of faithfulness and innocence and her cult was very popular in the early church.

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Gaudete Sunday of Advent

 

Sunday 14^th December

9:30am The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

10am  Mass for the Gaudete Sunday of Advent

 

Sanctuary Lamp

This week (6^th December – 12^th December), the Sanctuary Lamp is for Nikki Duhan.

 

Our Lady’s Lamp

This week (6^th December – 12^th December), Our Lady’s Lamp is for Simpson and Catlow Family.

 

Last Week’s Offertory Collection

£593.36. Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception - Monday 8th December

This Monday we will celebrate the beautiful Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception with a parish Mass at 7:00pm, and everyone is warmly invited to come.

In preparation for this feast many families in the parish have been welcoming the statue of Our Lady into their homes to pray the rosary and countless others have been offering up a daily rosary for St. Mary’s intentions. On the evening of Monday 8^th December there will be Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament at 6:00pm and The Holy Rosary at 6:30pm.

During these times of prayer, we will place before Our Lady the intention that our parish may continue to thrive, grow, and be strengthened in faith, hope, and charity. At the 7:00pm Mass, Fr O’Brien will lead us in a special act of Consecration of our parish to Our Lady, entrusting ourselves to her motherly care. In this prayer of consecration, we ask Mary to share with us the many graces God has bestowed upon her, that these gifts may refresh, reinvigorate, and renew us as a parish family, helping us to grow ever stronger in the love of her Son, Jesus. Let us come together in devotion and unity as we honour Our Blessed Mother and entrust the future of our parish to her gentle guidance and protection.

  

Mini Parish Jubilee Pilgrimage – Thank You

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined and supported our Mini Parish Jubilee Pilgrimage last Saturday to the Holy Door at St Mary of the Assumption, Burnley. It was a grace-filled afternoon of prayer, fellowship, and renewal as we stepped through the Holy Door together. We extend our sincere gratitude to Paul Pickles for organising and facilitating the parish minibus, ensuring that all who wished to come were able to travel with ease. Our warm thanks also go to the clergy and parish community at St Mary of the Assumption, Burnley—to the Dean, Fr Featherstone, and Fr Theo Shorrocks, the parish curate—for their welcome, their care during our visit, and the refreshments so kindly prepared for us. As Fr Theo reminded us in his talk, the Church grants three weeks either side of the pilgrimage in which to make a good confession in order to receive the plenary indulgence attached to passing through the Holy Door. Let us make the most of this spiritual opportunity. Thank you once again to all who made the pilgrimage such a prayerful and blessed occasion.

 

Confession Times at St Mary’s, Oswaldtwistle

Throughout Advent, Confession will also be available in our parish:

Fridays: 5:00pm – 5:50pm

Saturdays: 9:00am – 9:50am

Let this holy season be a time of forgiveness, renewal, and joyful return to the Lord who loves us.

 

St Mary’s Christmas Raffle – Donations Welcome

As we prepare for the joyful season of Christmas, we are once again organising our Annual Parish Christmas Raffle, to be drawn at the New Year’s Day Mass. We are kindly asking for donations of bottles of wine or fizz, boxes of chocolates, or tins of biscuits to help make up the prizes. All contributions, big or small, are very gratefully received.

Tickets: £1 each or £5 for a strip

Where to buy: Available from the stewards at Mass

Where to leave donations: Please leave any donated items at the stewards’ desk

All proceeds from the raffle go directly towards supporting our parish. Thank you, as always, for your continued generosity and support.

  

Advent Reading Recommendations

If you’d like something to accompany your spiritual journey this Advent, here are a few excellent and accessible options:

“Advent of the Heart” – Fr Alfred Delp, SJ

Short, powerful reflections written from prison during WWII — full of hope and depth.

“Advent Gospel Reflections” – Bishop Robert Barron & Word on Fire

Daily scripture reflections that are brief, clear, and inspiring.

“Rejoice! An Advent Pilgrimage into the Heart of Scripture” – Ascension Press

A simple, prayerful weekly guide to preparing for Christmas.

“Soundings: Advent Readings” – C.S. Lewis

Reflective pieces that invite deeper thought and a renewed sense of wonder.

“Rooted in Hope” – A Carmelite Advent Prayer Book

A contemplative approach to Advent, ideal for quiet moments of prayer.

Choosing even a small book or daily reflection can help make Advent a time of real renewal.

 

Caritas Salford Advent Appeal

Our diocesan charity, Caritas Salford, has released its 2025 Advent appeal to shine the spotlight on the true meaning of Christmas. To watch their latest animation and to find out more about how to help local people who are facing acute crisis this Christmas, please visit: https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/campaign/bee-there-2025/

 

 

Advice as energy bills continue to rise

If you or those in your wider parish community are in need of support with rising energy bills, Caritas Salford has put together some helpful advice on their website. Their energy advice service team can support with free sessions and drop-ins in your area. You can find out more by visiting www.caritassalford.org.uk/energysupport

 

Christmas Celebrations at St Mary’s- Please Save the Dates

As we look forward to the joyful celebration of the Nativity of Our Lord, here are the times for our Christmas liturgies. Please pop these dates into your diaries and join us as we gather in faith, hope, and gratitude.

Christmas Eve – Tuesday 24th December

Carols Around the Crib – 5:00pm

A gentle and family-friendly time of carol singing and reflection as we prepare our hearts for the birth of Jesus.

Family Christmas Eve Mass – 5:30pm

A joyful celebration of the Lord’s birth, especially welcoming to children and families.

 

Christmas Day – Wednesday 25th December

Carols Around the Crib – 9:30am

Come early and join in singing traditional carols as we gather at the manger of Christ.

Christmas Day Mass – 10:00am

The solemn and joyful celebration of Christmas morning.

Let us come together as a parish family to welcome the Light of Christ into our hearts and homes this Christmas.

  

Relics of St Carlo Acutis to Visit Diocese of Salford

In January, the relics of St Carlo Acutis will be hosted at two of our churches over five days, during which time the Diocese will welcome schools, parishioners and people from all over for veneration. Carlo is the first millennial saint and is celebrated for his profound faith and his use of the internet to log Eucharistic miracles from around the world. He was passionate about spreading the teachings of the Catholic Church up until his death from leukaemia at the age of 15. The relics will be presented at St Mary’s Church, Burnley from 28-29 January 2026 before they travel to St Patrick’s Church, Collyhurst from 30 January to 1 February 2026. More information will be shared soon with parishes and on the Diocesan website and social media channels.

 

 Laudato Si' Centre Volunteer Call-out: Retired Educators

The Diocese of Salford's Environment Team is inviting retired education staff to volunteer at the Laudato Si' Centre to assist with their successful programme of school visits. Volunteers would be supporting sessions with children from nursery age to Year 11 with activities including arts and crafts, games, and foraging. To find out more, please email laudatosi@dioceseofsalford.org.uk