The Exaltation of the Holy Cross - Sunday 14th September 2025

 

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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 14th September 2025

The Exaltation of the Holy Cross

 

 

Masses & Liturgies for the following weeks ...

 

 

Friday 12^th September

5pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

6pm Mass,The Most Holy Name of Mary (Memoria)    

‘Mary means Star of the sea, for as mariners are guided to port by the ocean star, so Christians attain to glory through Mary's maternal intercession.’ - St. Thomas Aquinas

 

Saturday 13^th September

6pm The Holy Rosary

6:30pm Vigil Mass, The Exaltation of the Holy Cross (Feast)

The feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross celebrates two historical events: the discovery of the True Cross by Saint Helena, the mother of the Emperor Constantine, in 320AD under the temple of Venus in Jerusalem, and the dedication in 335AD of the basilica and shrine built on Calvary by Constantine, which mark the site of the Crucifixion. However the feast, more than anything else, is a celebration and commemoration of God's greatest work: his salvific death on the Cross and His Resurrection, through which death was defeated and the doors to Heaven opened.

 

Sunday 14^th September 

9:30am The Holy Rosary

10am The Exaltation of the Holy Cross (Feast)

The feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross celebrates two historical events: the discovery of the True Cross by Saint Helena, the mother of the Emperor Constantine, in 320AD under the temple of Venus in Jerusalem, and the dedication in 335AD of the basilica and shrine built on Calvary by Constantine, which mark the site of the Crucifixion. However the feast, more than anything else, is a celebration and commemoration of God's greatest work: his salvific death on the Cross and His Resurrection, through which death was defeated and the doors to Heaven opened.

 

 

Friday 19^th September

5pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

6pm Weekday Mass (Feria)

 

Saturday 20^th September

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for the 25^th Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Sunday 21^st September 

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

10am Mass for the 25^th Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

 

Sanctuary Lamp

This week (13^th September – 19^th September), the Sanctuary Lamp is for June McCaffrey.

Our Lady’s Lamp

This week (13^th September – 19^th September), Our Lady’s Lamp is for Bill Moorhouse.

 

Last Week’s Offertory Collection

£553.26 Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

A Message from Fr. O’Brien: Thank You to All Our Parishioners

A heartfelt thank you to everyone at St. Mary’s who helped make our Parish Festal Weekend such a prayerful, joyful, and grace-filled occasion. From those who supported the Friday Healing Mass, to the musicians who enriched our liturgical celebrations with beautiful music, and those who read and served faithfully at the various Masses—your contributions were deeply appreciated. Thank you also to everyone who helped prepare and host the Monday afternoon tea, and to all who offered prayers for our parish family on the Feast of Our Lady’s Birthday. No matter your role—seen or unseen—your generosity and service are what make our parish a lively and welcoming community, witnessing to the love of Jesus Christ and the powerful intercession of His Mother, Our Lady. May God bless you all abundantly.

 

 

Fr. O’Brien’s Jubilee Year Pilgrimage

As part of his Jubilee Year, Fr. O’Brien will be going on pilgrimage for the first time to Medjugorje in Bosnia-Herzegovina—a place of deep devotion where many are reminded of the importance of the Holy Eucharist and the Sacrament of Confession as precious gifts from the Lord to sustain us in our daily lives. Let us keep Fr. O’Brien in our prayers during this week, asking that he may be refreshed by the Holy Spirit and return renewed in faith and strength to continue his ministry among us. While Fr. O’Brien is away, Fr. Sampson will kindly be looking after our parish. In the case of any pastoral emergencies, Fr. Stephen at St. Wulstan’s, Great Harwood can be contacted by telephone on: 01254 884211. The parish office will be working as usual – Wednesday 10am – 1pm and Friday 10am -1pm.  

May Our Lady, Queen of Peace, intercede for all pilgrims and for our parish family.

 

 

Evangelii Gaudium Sunday (Home Mission Sunday)
Evangelii Gaudium Sunday - celebrated on Sunday 21^st September - calls us to be joyous in proclaiming our faith. It is a Sunday more commonly known as Home Mission Sunday, a day for us as the Catholic community in England and Wales to celebrate the beauty of our faith, and our shared commitment to witness to the fullness of life in Christ. Celebrating 1,700 years since the Council of Nicaea, the theme for this year is “I believe…” as the heart of mission. More details about this can be found on the Bishops’ Conference website - https://www.cbcew.org.uk/evangelii-gaudium-sunday.
The second collection on this weekend is to support the work carried out by the Bishops’ Conference Mission Directorate. Through this directorate, we support our Church in a wide field of service and mission here in England and Wales. Please hold this important work in your prayers. There will be a collection basket at the back of church (under the large crucifix) for any donations towards Home Mission Sunday.

 

 

Consultation on Changing the Saturday 6:30pm Vigil Mass Time

Over the past three months, parishioners have raised the possibility of bringing the Saturday Vigil Mass forward. This discussion has come from concerns among older members of our community about attending Mass during darker evenings, as well as the practical needs of families with young children. Many parishioners have expressed a preference for an earlier time, with 5:30pm being a commonly suggested option. In order to consider this change, we need to address some practical matters. Specifically, we would need volunteers willing to serve as stewards to open and close the church, particularly if our current stewards are unavailable at the new time. Similarly, we would require parishioners to step forward as readers, in case existing readers are unable to accommodate the change. If you are willing to support this potential change by volunteering as a steward or reader, please email the parish office at stmarysoswaldtwistle@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

during the month of September. If we are unable to meet these practical needs by the end of September, the Vigil Mass will remain at its current time of 6:30pm.

 

Fr. O’Brien’s Visit to St Oswald’s School

On Friday, Fr. O’Brien was warmly welcomed into St Oswald’s School to celebrate a special Jubilee Liturgy of the Word marking the beginning of the new school year.

Through prayers, scripture, and music, the whole school community was reminded that we are called to be a Jubilee people—walking in the footsteps of Jesus and bringing hope to others through our words, actions, and prayers. Following the liturgy, each class invited Fr. O’Brien to visit their classroom, where he offered a blessing and prayed for God’s help and protection over the staff and pupils for the year ahead. Please keep all our young people in your prayers as they begin this new academic journey.

 

First Confession & First Holy Communion Preparation

Families living in the parish of St. Mary’s with children aged 7 years and above are warmly encouraged to approach Fr. O’Brien regarding preparation for First Confession and First Holy Communion. No child in the parish ever misses out, as Fr. O’Brien runs a continuous sacramental programme throughout the year. If you would like your child to receive these important sacraments, please speak to Fr. O after the weekend Mass you attend—either the 6:30pm Vigil Mass on Saturday or the 10:00am Mass on Sunday.

Let us continue to nurture the faith of our young parishioners as they grow in love for the Lord and His Church.

 

Mount Carmel High School

The school’s Annual Open Evening takes place on Thursday 18th September from 5.00 pm – 8.30pm. It is an opportunity for parents of pupils currently in Yr 5 and Yr 6 to visit school and have a good look around, but the opportunity is open to all the parish community. The annual Yr 7 Welcome Mass takes place on Friday 3rd October at 2pm, and you are invited to join us on this occasion. Other dates are the Christmas Fayre which will take place on Friday 28 November, and Community Christmas Party that will take place on Monday 8 December.

 

Marriage Support & Healing

MARRIAGE HELP - Retrouvaille helps couples find hope and healing for their marriage. Next date: 17th-19th Oct. www.retrouvaille.org.uk Tel: 0788 7296983

 

Jubilee for the Environment

This September, in conjunction with the Season of Creation, the Diocese of Salford is delighted to be continuing our Jubilee of Jubilees series with the Jubilee for the Environment. Our Diocesan Environment Team has a range of resources and events to share with you over the coming weeks. Please stay tuned throughout the month by visiting https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/news/jubilee-2025/calendar/

 

Mini Pilgrimage Opportunity

The Northern Dioceses Environment Group - of which the Diocese of Salford is a member - is organising a mini pilgrimage from Leeds City Station to Kirkstall Abbey on Saturday 20 September, 12.45 - 4pm. The 4.7 mile pilgrimage runs mainly along the Leeds Liverpool Canal Towpath. All are welcome to join. Find out more by emailing laudatosi@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

 

Life in the Spirit Seminars 
Discover more about what it means to live in the Holy Spirit with a series of seminars heading to Manchester this autumn. This series of Life in the Spirit Seminars will be taking place at Our Lady's Church, Moss Side, from Wednesday 24th September, 7.30pm-9.30pm. To find out more, please email ourladys@btinternet.com or call 0161 226 1730.

 

Talk on Pilgrimages
Dr Kathyrn Hurlock from M’cr Met Uni will give a talk on ‘The Catholic Experience of Pilgrimage Medieval to Modern’. It will take place at St Ann’s Parish Centre (M32 8LF) on Saturday 20th September, starting at 10.30am. More details from Fr Ged Murphy: Gerald.Murphy@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

 

Diocese of Salford Job Vacancies

Cleaner - Parish of Our Lady of Hope, Salford
Appointment Type: Part- time/Permanent
Working Hours: 6 hours per week (Work pattern to be agreed with Parish Priest)
Location: Ss Peter & Paul Church, Park Road, Pendleton, Salford M6 8JR and St Luke's Presbytery, Swinton Park Road, Irlams o’ th’ Height, Salford M6 7WR
Salary: £12.60 per hour, 25 holidays, plus statutory bank holidays and 5 Diocesan closure days (Pro-rata for part-time)
Find out more and apply at https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/news/vacancies 

 

Communications Officer - Diocese of Salford (Maternity Cover)
Appointment Type: Full-time, fixed-term. Contract for Maternity Leave Cover. 
Working Hours: 35 hours per week. Usual pattern Mon-Fri. Some flexibility for evenings and weekends as needed. 
Location: Cathedral Centre, 3 Ford Street, Salford, M3 6DP
Salary: £26,232-£32,246, 25 holidays (pro-rata), plus statutory bank holidays and 5 Diocesan closure days.
Find out more and apply at https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/news/vacancies 

 

Maintenance Operative
Appointment Type: Full-time, permanent
Working Hours: 35 hours per week. Mon-Fri with some flexible working required.
Location: Cathedral Centre, 3 Ford Street, Salford, M3 6DP. Some travel around diocesan sites. 
Salary: £22,932 - £27,646 per annum, 25 holidays, plus statutory bank holidays and 5 Diocesan closure days.
Find out more and apply at https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/news/vacancies 

 

 

 

 

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Sunday 7th September 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 7^th September 2025

23^rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

 

Happy Feast Day (8^th Sept) to all parishioners and extended members of our parish family here at St. Mary’s, Oswaldtwistle.

Let’s continue to ask Our Blessed Mother for her intercession, so that we can grow closer towards her Son and become those saints he has called us to be.

Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle, pray for us.

 

 

Masses & Liturgies for the following week ...

 

Friday 5^th September

6pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Confessions.

7pm Healing Mass, with the Sacrament of the Sick and a Eucharist Healing Procession

 

Saturday 6^th September

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

10am Votive Mass of Our Lady

1pm Wedding Service of Jonathan Eccles & Antonia Carroll

6pm The Holy Rosary

6:30pm Vigil Mass followed by a Torchlight Procession to the Grotto (weather permitting)

 

Sunday 7^th September 

9:30am The Holy Rosary

10am Mass beginning with the procession of the statue of Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle around the church.

 

Monday 8th September: Day of Celebration

9:30am The Holy Rosary

10am Feast Day Mass

1:30pm Celebratory Afternoon Tea

6pm Feast Day Mass

 

Tuesday 9^th September

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

6pm Weekday Mass (Feria)

 

Wednesday 10^th September

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

10am Mass, Saint Ambrose Barlow, Priest & Martyr (Feast)

St Ambrose Barlow, born in 1585 at the still standing Barlow Hall in Chorlton-Cum-Hardy, Manchester, became a Benedictine after studies at Douai and Valladolid, before returning to Manchester to work for the many Catholics of this region. He was famed for his preaching and love of the poor, walking long distances in order to fulfill his ministry. He was imprisoned at least four times, before final arrest and execution at Lancaster in 1641. His skull is preserved at Wardley Hall (The residence of the Bishop of Salford), and his jaw-bone at St. Ambrose, Chorlton-Cum-Hardy. 

 

Friday 12^th September

5pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

6pm Mass, The Most Holy Name of Mary (Memoria)    

‘Mary means Star of the sea, for as mariners are guided to port by the ocean star, so Christians attain to glory through Mary's maternal intercession.’ - St. Thomas Aquinas

 

Saturday 13^th September

6pm The Holy Rosary

6:30pm Vigil Mass, The Exaltation of the Holy Cross (Feast)

The feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross celebrates two historical events: the discovery of the True Cross by Saint Helena, the mother of the Emperor Constantine, in 320AD under the temple of Venus in Jerusalem, and the dedication in 335AD of the basilica and shrine built on Calvary by Constantine, which mark the site of the Crucifixion. However the feast, more than anything else, is a celebration and commemoration of God's greatest work: his salvific death on the Cross and His Resurrection, through which death was defeated and the doors to Heaven opened.

 

Sunday 14^th September 

9:30am The Holy Rosary

10am The Exaltation of the Holy Cross (Feast)

The feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross celebrates two historical events: the discovery of the True Cross by Saint Helena, the mother of the Emperor Constantine, in 320AD under the temple of Venus in Jerusalem, and the dedication in 335AD of the basilica and shrine built on Calvary by Constantine, which mark the site of the Crucifixion. However the feast, more than anything else, is a celebration and commemoration of God's greatest work: his salvific death on the Cross and His Resurrection, through which death was defeated and the doors to Heaven opened.

 

Sanctuary Lamp

This week (6^th September – 12^th September), the Sanctuary Lamp is for George Rogan.

Our Lady’s Lamp

This week (6^th September – 12^th September, Our Lady’s Lamp is for Maurice Cross.

 

Last Week’s Offertory Collection

£579.37. Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

Parish Festal Weekend

On 8th September, the Feast of the Nativity of Our Lady, we celebrate a special moment in our parish history. On this day in 1948, St. Mary’s was formally consecrated, marking the first time the parish had been debt-free since 1897! A memorial stone near the Hawthorn Avenue side entrance commemorates this milestone. This is our parish feast, and from Friday 5th to Monday 8th September, there will be a variety of opportunities for prayer and celebration. You are warmly encouraged to invite family, friends, and neighbours to join us for any of the Masses and liturgies. It’s a wonderful occasion to share the life of our community and to witness that St. Mary’s is a vibrant Catholic parish, proud of our faith in Jesus Christ, and eager to share the blessings of Our Lady with others.

 

Holy Humour: Mobile Phones

In Corsica there is a Catholic Church that has the following visible notice as worshippers and visitors enter:

En entrant dans cette église, il est possible que vous entendiez l’appel de Dieu.Par contre, il n’est pas susceptible de vous contacter par téléphone.Merci d’avoir éteint votre téléphone.  Si vous souhaitez parler à Dieu, entrez, choisissez un endroit tranquille et parle lui. Si vous souhaitez le voir, envoyez-lui un SMS en conduisant.

Translation :

It is possible that on entering this church, you may hear the Call of God. On the other hand, it is not likely that he will contact you by phone. Thank you for turning off your phone. If you would like to talk to God, come in, choose a quiet place, and talk to him.

If you would like to see him, send him a text while driving.”

 

Consultation on Changing the Saturday 6:30pm Vigil Mass Time

Over the past three months, parishioners have raised the possibility of bringing the Saturday Vigil Mass forward. This discussion has come from concerns among older members of our community about attending Mass during darker evenings, as well as the practical needs of families with young children. Many parishioners have expressed a preference for an earlier time, with 5:30pm being a commonly suggested option. In order to consider this change, we need to address some practical matters. Specifically, we would need volunteers willing to serve as stewards to open and close the church, particularly if our current stewards are unavailable at the new time. Similarly, we would require parishioners to step forward as readers, in case existing readers are unable to accommodate the change. If you are willing to support this potential change by volunteering as a steward or reader, please email the parish office at stmarysoswaldtwistle@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

during the month of September. If we are unable to meet these practical needs by the end of September, the Vigil Mass will remain at its current time of 6:30pm.

 

Be Daring! Be Brave! Try Something New to Strengthen Your Relationship with God!

Opening the Bible and beginning to read can feel daunting or confusing at first—but we believe that through Sacred Scripture, God speaks to us personally. Why not take a step in faith and give it a try? On Wednesday 10th September, from 7:00pm to 8:00pm, you're invited to explore the Acts of the Apostles, chapter by chapter. Discover the miracles, challenges, and faith of the early Christians. Learn about the cultures that shaped them, the stories behind their lives, and the courage that carried the Church forward in its earliest days. All you need to bring is yourself and a Bible. This is not an academic course or formal lecture—it’s a welcoming space for believers to gather, reflect, and walk with the Lord through Scripture. Everyone is welcome. Step out of your routine. Do something different. Come and join us.

 

Marriage Support & Healing

MARRIAGE HELP - Retrouvaille helps couples find hope and healing for their marriage. Next date: 17th-19th Oct. www.retrouvaille.org.uk Tel: 0788 7296983

 

Food Bank Update

Some parishioners have recently asked what specific items our local Food Bank is currently in need of. Below is an update from our parish Food Bank liaison, Jackie Ringer:

“The Food Bank is incredibly grateful for the ongoing generosity of St Mary's parishioners and sends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who donates. I recently reached out to find out which items are most needed at the moment. While they currently have a surplus of tinned soup, the following items would be especially welcome:

Tinned fruit, rice pudding, meat, vegetables, and spaghetti

Breakfast cereals, instant noodles, rice, biscuits

Pasta sauces, tea, coffee, sugar

Toiletries: soap, shampoo, conditioner, sanitary towels, toilet rolls, kitchen rolls, toothbrushes”

A big thank you to Jackie for keeping us informed, and to all those who continue to support the Food Bank. God bless you for your kindness and generosity.#

 

 

The Martyr-Saints of the North-West

A priest of Salford Diocese will be leading a weekend of study exploring more about the Reformation-era martyrs of the North West. Part-retreat, part-biographical, the weekend will be led by Mgr John Allen, who has recently published a book on the history of the diocese. The study weekend runs from 12-14th September at the Christian Heritage Centre at Stonyhurst. For more information and to book: https://christianheritagecentre.com/events/the-martyr-saints-of-the-north-west/

 

 

Annual Rosary Rally - The Legion of Mary

The Legion of Mary Manchester will hold their Annual Rosary Rally on Saturday 13th September. All are invited to come together to pray the Holy Rosary for Peace, and to end wars around the world as requested by Pope Leo XIV. The rally will take place from 2.30pm at St. Willibrord's Church, North Road, Clayton, M11 4WQ, and light refreshments will be served afterwards.

 

 

Jubilee for the Environment

This September, in conjunction with the Season of Creation, the Diocese of Salford is delighted to be continuing our Jubilee of Jubilees series with the Jubilee for the Environment. Our Diocesan Environment Team has a range of resources and events to share with you over the coming weeks. Please stay tuned throughout the month by visiting https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/news/jubilee-2025/calendar/

 

Mini Pilgrimage Opportunity

The Northern Dioceses Environment Group - of which the Diocese of Salford is a member - is organising a mini pilgrimage from Leeds City Station to Kirkstall Abbey on Saturday 20 September, 12.45 - 4pm. The 4.7 mile pilgrimage runs mainly along the Leeds Liverpool Canal Towpath. All are welcome to join. Find out more by emailing laudatosi@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

 

Food Bank Update

Some parishioners have recently asked what specific items our local Food Bank is currently in need of. Below is an update from our parish Food Bank liaison, Jackie Ringer:

“The Food Bank is incredibly grateful for the ongoing generosity of St Mary's parishioners and sends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who donates. I recently reached out to find out which items are most needed at the moment. While they currently have a surplus of tinned soup, the following items would be especially welcome:

Tinned fruit, rice pudding, meat, vegetables, and spaghetti

Breakfast cereals, instant noodles, rice, biscuits

Pasta sauces, tea, coffee, sugar

Toiletries: soap, shampoo, conditioner, sanitary towels, toilet rolls, kitchen rolls, toothbrushes”

A big thank you to Jackie for keeping us informed, and to all those who continue to support the Food Bank. God bless you for your kindness and generosity.

 

 

 

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Sunday 31st August 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 31^st  August 2025

22^nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

 

Masses & Liturgies for the following week ...

 

Saturday 30^th August

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

10am Mass, Saints Margaret Clitherow, Anne Line and Margaret Ward, Martyrs (Memoria)

St. Margaret Clitherow was born in York in 1556, and died there on the 25th March 1586. At 15, she married a butcher, John Clitherow, and three years later became a Catholic. She hid priests in their house. In 1586, the secret hiding places were discovered. She refused to plead at her trial, for which she was crushed to death.

Saint Anne Line was born at Dunmow (Essex) in 1565 and hanged at Tyburn on 27th February 1601. In her teens, she became a Catholic and was disinherited and in 1585 married Roger Line who was exiled for his faith leaving her destitute. She kept house for priests. After people had been seen at her house for Mass, she was arrested, tried and condemned to death.

Saint Margaret Ward was born at Congleton (Cheshire), but entered into the service of a family in London. She was arrested after assisting a priest escape from prison, but refused to reveal his hiding place or renounce her faith. She was tried at the Old Bailey and executed in 1588.

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for the 22^nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Sunday 31^st August

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

10am Mass for the 22^nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Tuesday 2^nd September

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

6pm Weekday Mass (Feria)

 

 

 

Wednesday 3^rd September

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

10am Mass, Saint Gregory the Great, Pope, Doctor of the Church (Feast)

St Gregory the Great was born in Rome in 540A.D; he became a civil servant and Prefect of the City. He entered the Abbey of St. Andrew, and was ordained deacon in 578A.D. In 590A.D Gregory was elected Pope, showing pastoral care in preaching, writing, care for the poor and working for the welfare of Rome. He is the "Apostle of England" because it was he who sent Augustine to minister there, after encountering English slaves in the Forum.

 

Thursday 4^th September

9:30am Mass, Saint Cuthbert, Bishop (Memoria)

St. Cuthbert was born 643A.D, died on Farne 20th March 687 A.D. A shepherd boy, he became a monk at Melrose. After the Synod of Whitby in 664 A.D, he became prior of Lindisfarne and won over the community to Roman customs. In 676 A.D. he left the monastery to live in solitude on the island of Farne. For the last two years of his life he served as bishop of Lindisfarne but returned to his island to die.

 

Parish Festal Weekend - Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle

 

Friday 5^th September

6pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Confessions.

7pm Healing Mass, with the Sacrament of the Sick and a Eucharist Healing Procession

 

Saturday 6^th September

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

10am Votive Mass of Our Lady

1pm Wedding Service of Jonathan Eccles & Antonia Carroll

6pm The Holy Rosary

6:30pm Vigil Mass followed by a Torchlight Procession to the Grotto

 

Sunday 7^th September 

9:30am The Holy Rosary

10am Mass beginning with the procession of the statue of Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle around the church.

 

Monday 8th September: Day of Celebration

9:30am The Holy Rosary

10am Feast Day Mass

1pm Celebratory Afternoon Tea

6pm Feast Day Mass

 

 

Sanctuary Lamp

This week (30^th August – 5^th September), the Sanctuary Lamp is for In Memory of Irene Bridges.

Our Lady’s Lamp

This week (30^th August – 5^th September), Our Lady’s Lamp is for Linda Usbourne.

 

Last Week’s Offertory Collection

£598.47. Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

St. Mary’s Celebratory Afternoon Tea

Join us on Monday 8th September, at 1:30pm for a delightful Celebratory Afternoon Tea, for our parish feast day – Our Lady’s Birthday. Enjoy a selection of delicious sandwiches, tempting cakes, and traditional scones with jam and cream. There will also be some live entertainment. Tickets are £15 per person, available on a first-come, first-served basis from the stewards’ desk. As numbers are limited, tickets will only be reserved when accompanied by payment. The booking sheet is now available. Please see any of the stewards at the 6:30pm Vigil Mass and the 10am Sunday Mass.

PLEASE NOTE: Payment to be made by Sunday 31^st August to confirm your place.

 

Consultation on Changing the Saturday 6:30pm Vigil Mass Time

Over the past three months, parishioners have raised the possibility of bringing the Saturday Vigil Mass forward. This discussion has come from concerns among older members of our community about attending Mass during darker evenings, as well as the practical needs of families with young children.

Many parishioners have expressed a preference for an earlier time, with 5:30pm being a commonly suggested option. In order to consider this change, we need to address some practical matters. Specifically, we would need volunteers willing to serve as stewards to open and close the church, particularly if our current stewards are unavailable at the new time. Similarly, we would require parishioners to step forward as readers, in case existing readers are unable to accommodate the change.

If you are willing to support this potential change by volunteering as a steward or reader, please email the parish office at stmarysoswaldtwistle@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

 during the month of September.

If we are unable to meet these practical needs by the end of September, the Vigil Mass will remain at its current time of 6:30pm.

 

Be Daring! Be Brave! Try Something New to Strengthen Your Relationship with God!

Opening the Bible and beginning to read can feel daunting or confusing at first—but we believe that through Sacred Scripture, God speaks to us personally. Why not take a step in faith and give it a try?

On Wednesday 10th September, from 7:00pm to 8:00pm, you're invited to explore the Acts of the Apostles, chapter by chapter. Discover the miracles, challenges, and faith of the early Christians. Learn about the cultures that shaped them, the stories behind their lives, and the courage that carried the Church forward in its earliest days.

All you need to bring is yourself and a Bible. This is not an academic course or formal lecture—it’s a welcoming space for believers to gather, reflect, and walk with the Lord through Scripture.

Everyone is welcome. Step out of your routine. Do something different. Come and join us.

 

Food Bank Update

Some parishioners have recently asked what specific items our local Food Bank is currently in need of. Below is an update from our parish Food Bank liaison, Jackie Ringer:

“The Food Bank is incredibly grateful for the ongoing generosity of St Mary's parishioners and sends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who donates. I recently reached out to find out which items are most needed at the moment. While they currently have a surplus of tinned soup, the following items would be especially welcome:

Tinned fruit, rice pudding, meat, vegetables, and spaghetti

Breakfast cereals, instant noodles, rice, biscuits

Pasta sauces, tea, coffee, sugar

Toiletries: soap, shampoo, conditioner, sanitary towels, toilet rolls, kitchen rolls, toothbrushes”

A big thank you to Jackie for keeping us informed, and to all those who continue to support the Food Bank. God bless you for your kindness and generosity.

 

Jubilee for the Environment

This September, we celebrate the Jubilee for the Environment with a beautiful Outdoor Mass at the Laudato Si’ Centre at 9.30am on Monday 1st September. For more information and to register, please email laudatosi@dioceseofsalford.org.uk.

The Martyr-Saints of the North-West

A priest of Salford Diocese will be leading a weekend of study exploring more about the Reformation-era martyrs of the North West. Part-retreat, part-biographical, the weekend will be led by Mgr John Allen, who has recently published a book on the history of the diocese. The study weekend runs from 12-14th September at the Christian Heritage Centre at Stonyhurst. For more information and to book: https://christianheritagecentre.com/events/the-martyr-saints-of-the-north-west/

The Mercy Brothers

Enjoy a family-friendly night of musical entertainment with clergy band, The Mercy Brothers. The concert will raise funds for our Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage Fund, which supports our sick pilgrims and medical team. The concert takes place on Friday 3rd October at St Michael's RC Parish, Whitefield. Doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm start. Tickets cost £15 for adults, £10 for 16-21 year olds, and free for under 16s. Food will be provided and included in the cost. Book now by emailing Lourdes.pilgrimage@dioceseofsalford.org.uk or phone the pilgrimage office on 0161 817 2209.

Mini Pilgrimage Opportunity

The Northern Dioceses Environment Group - of which the Diocese of Salford is a member - is organising a mini pilgrimage from Leeds City Station to Kirkstall Abbey on Saturday 20 September, 12.45 - 4pm. The 4.7 mile pilgrimage runs mainly along the Leeds Liverpool Canal Towpath. All are welcome to join. Find out more by emailing laudatosi@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

Marriage Support & Healing

MARRIAGE HELP - Retrouvaille helps couples find hope and healing for their marriage. Next date: 17th-19th Oct. www.retrouvaille.org.uk Tel: 0788 7296983

 

21st Sunday in Ordinary Time Sunday 24th August 2025

 

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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 24th  August 2025

21st Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

 

Masses & Liturgies for the following week ...

 

Saturday 23rd August

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

10am Votive Mass of Our Lady (In the Lady Chapel)

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Sunday 24th August

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

10am Mass for the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Tuesday 26th August

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

6pm Mass, Blessed Dominic of the Mother of God (Memoria)

Blessed Dominic Barberi was born in Viterbo in 1792; he became a Passionist and traveled to England in 1841; here he worked tirelessly, establishing four Passionist houses and bringing many people into the Church by his preaching and writing; he received St. John Henry Newman into the Church. He died at Reading in 1849.

 

Wednesday 27th August

6pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

7pm Mass, Saint Monica (Memoria) followed by the veneration of her relic (see below for more details)

St. Monica, born in North Africa in 133 A.D, was mother of St. Augustine Thanks to her prayer, her husband was baptized; she also prayed for Augustine, living a wild life; he was eventually baptized in Milan in 387A.D, but she fell ill and died at Ostia while going home to Africa.

 

 

Thursday 28th August

10am Requiem Mass for Audrey Keane RIP

 

 

Friday 29th August

5pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

6pm Mass, The Passion of Saint John the Baptist (Memoria)

'The king promptly dispatched an executioner with orders to bring back his head. He went off and beheaded him in the prison. He brought in the head on a platter and gave it to the girl. The girl in turn gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.' (Mark 6:17-29)

 

Saturday 30th August

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

10am Mass, Saints Margaret Clitherow, Anne Line and Margaret Ward, Martyrs (Memoria)

St. Margaret Clitherow was born in York in 1556, and died there on the 25th March 1586. At 15, she married a butcher, John Clitherow, and three years later became a Catholic. She hid priests in their house. In 1586, the secret hiding places were discovered. She refused to plead at her trial, for which she was crushed to death.

Saint Anne Line was born at Dunmow (Essex) in 1565 and hanged at Tyburn on 27th February 1601. In her teens, she became a Catholic and was disinherited and in 1585 married Roger Line who was exiled for his faith leaving her destitute. She kept house for priests. After people had been seen at her house for Mass, she was arrested, tried and condemned to death.

Saint Margaret Ward was born at Congleton (Cheshire), but entered into the service of a family in London. She was arrested after assisting a priest escape from prison, but refused to reveal his hiding place or renounce her faith. She was tried at the Old Bailey and executed in 1588.

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for the 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Sunday 24th August  

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

10am Mass for the 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

 

Sanctuary Lamp

This week (23rd August – 29th August), the Sanctuary Lamp is for Hilda & Derek Cruise.

Our Lady's Lamp

This week (23rd August – 29th August), Our Lady's Lamp is for Gertrude & Richard Henry.

 

Last Week's Offertory Collection

£644.60. Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

 

Hospital Emergency Call

This week I'll be helping out the Fr. Samson Ojekunle, the Catholic Chaplain at the Royal Blackburn Hospital by going on the emergency 'on call' rota. As you'll appreciate an emergency is never planned and so it may mean that certain visits or appointments I've made will be either delayed or postponed. Thank you to all our stewards in advance, whose invaluable help means that, even if I can't make it in time for a Mass the church is open for prayer. Let's pray for all the sick and those who care for them. Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for them. Please note: Fr. Samson can only visit you during your stay in hospital if you request him through the ward staff.

 

The Feast of Saint Monica

This Wednesday, we celebrate the Feast of Saint Monica, a time to unite in prayer, following her example, for our loved ones who struggle with their faith—whether they've distanced themselves from the Sacraments or have simply stopped practicing. We will gather for Holy Mass at 7pm, followed by the opportunity to venerate a relic of St. Monica and seek her intercession. A prayer box will be placed in front of her statue in the sanctuary, inviting all to write the names of family and friends in need of her prayers. Please join us and share this invitation so others may come and receive the blessings of this special occasion.

 

Thank You

On behalf of the parish, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Fr. Adam for joining us last week at St. Mary's to celebrate the Masses. It was a great comfort to have time away, knowing that the parish was in such capable hands.

 

St. Mary's Celebratory Afternoon Tea

Join us on Monday 8th September, at 1:30pm for a delightful Celebratory Afternoon Tea, for our parish feast day – Our Lady's Birthday. Enjoy a selection of delicious sandwiches, tempting cakes, and traditional scones with jam and cream. There will also be some live entertainment. Tickets are £15 per person, available on a first-come, first-served basis from the stewards' desk. As numbers are limited, tickets will only be reserved when accompanied by payment. The booking sheet is now available. Please see any of the stewards at the 6:30pm Vigil Mass and the 10am Sunday Mass.

 

St. Mary's Prayer Visitors (PVs)

During his visits to parishioners, Fr. O'Brien has encountered individuals who, while having access to the Sacraments through the parish priest and extraordinary ministers

of Holy Communion, would also find great comfort and support in having someone pray with them outside of these sacramental visits.

 

Prayer Visitor Role

A Prayer Visitor (PV) is a parishioner in good standing with the Church, who has completed the required safeguarding checks (DBS & Salford Diocesan Volunteer Registration) and received initial formation from the parish priest. The parish priest will direct PVs to parishioners who would greatly benefit from having others pray with them. PVs will visit individuals who have been first assessed by the priest, and they will always visit in pairs—not alone. It's important to note that PVs are not social workers, home care providers, or messengers. Their sole mission is to pray with others within the parish boundaries. As Jesus said, "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them." (Matthew 18:20)

If you feel called to become a Prayer Visitor, please contact Fr. O'Brien through the parish office at stmarysoswaldtwistle@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

Date for you Diaries…

St. Mary's Parish Feast & Celebration, Friday 5th September – Monday 8th September 2025.

Friday 5th September: Day of Healing 6pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Confessions. 7pm Healing Mass, with the Sacrament of the Sick and a Eucharist Healing Procession.

Saturday 6th September: Day of Intercession 9am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Confessions, 10am Votive Mass of Our Lady, 6pm The Holy Rosary, 6:30pm the Vigil Mass followed by a Torchlight Procession to the Grotto

Sunday 7th September: Day of Resurrection 9:30am The Holy Rosary, 10am Mass beginning with the procession of the statue of Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle around the church,

Monday 8th September: Day of Celebration 9:30am The Holy Rosary, 10am Feast Day Mass, 1:30pm Celebratory Afternoon Tea, 6pm Feast Day Mass

If any parishioners would like to volunteer their time and facilitate an event, especially on the Sunday afternoon, they are more than welcome to. Please see Fr. O'Brien to share what you would like to do. Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle, pray for us.

Jubilee for the Environment

This September, we celebrate the Jubilee for the Environment with a beautiful Outdoor Mass at the Laudato Si' Centre at 9.30am on Monday 1st September. For more information and to register, please email laudatosi@dioceseofsalford.org.uk.

Jubilee for Social Justice Event (with free transport offer)

The Caritas Social Action Network will be hosting a Jubilee of Social Justice for all those interested in Catholic social action. The event takes place on Saturday 20 September from 12noon at Liverpool Met Cathedral and will include Mass with Most Rev. Malcolm McMahon OP Emeritus Archbishop of Liverpool, followed by light lunch, a social action exhibition, and reflections from leaders in Catholic Social Action. Our diocesan charity Caritas Salford is providing a free coach for those from our diocese who are interested in attending. Find out more or book a place by visiting their website: www.caritassalford.org.uk/SocialJusticeJubilee

Marriage Support & Healing

MARRIAGE HELP - Retrouvaille helps couples find hope and healing for their marriage. Next date: 17th-19th Oct. www.retrouvaille.org.uk Tel: 0788 7296983

Job Vacancies

The Diocese of Salford is recruiting for a number of roles in the diocesan property team, as well as in our parish clubs. To find out more, please visit https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/news/vacancies/