Sunday 31st May - Most Holy Trinity

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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 31^st May

Most Holy Trinity

 

The Most Holy Trinity by St. Faustina:

"When One of the Three Persons communicates with a soul, by the power of that one will, it finds itself united with the Three Persons and is inundated in the happiness flowing from the Most Holy Trinity, the same happiness that nourishes the saints. This same happiness that streams from the Most Holy Trinity makes all creation happy; from it springs that life which vivifies and bestows all life which takes its beginning from Him."

 

Saturday 30^th May

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

10am Votive Mass of Our Lady

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for The Most Holy Trinity

 

Sunday 31^st May

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

10am Mass for The Most Holy Trinity

 

Tuesday 2^nd June

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

6pm Weekday Mass (Feria)

 

Wednesday 3^rd June

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

10am Mass, Saint Charles Lwanga and Companions, Martyrs (Memoria)

 

Thursday 4^th June

9:15am Weekday Mass (Feria)

 

Friday 5^th June

12pm Wedding Service for Liesel Baron & Paul Green

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

6pm Mass, Saint Boniface, Bishop & Martyr (Memoria)

 

Saturday 6^th June

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

10am Mass, Votive Mass of Our Lady

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Corpus Christi (The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ)

There will be Benediction at the end of Mass for this great solemnity

 

 

Sunday 7^th June

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

10am Mass of Corpus Christi (The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ)

There will be Benediction at the end of Mass for this great solemnity

3pm Deanery Corpus Christi Procession (St Mary Magdalene’s RC Church, Burnley BB12 0JP)

 

 

Our Lady's Lamp

This week 30^th May – 5^th June) Our Lady's Lamp is for Hughes and Shorrock Family.

 

Last Week's Offertory Collection

£525.35. Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

The Most Holy Trinity

This weekend the Church celebrates the great Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity — Father, Son and Holy Spirit — the central mystery of our Christian faith. We believe in one God in three Divine Persons: the Father who created us, the Son who redeemed us, and the Holy Spirit who sanctifies and guides us. Every time we make the Sign of the Cross we profess this faith in the Holy Trinity. At all Masses this weekend, the Penitential Rite will be omitted and replaced with the Blessing and Sprinkling of Holy Water (Asperges). This beautiful rite reminds us of our own Baptism, when the name of the Blessed Trinity was invoked over us: “I baptise you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” Parishioners are warmly invited to bring small empty bottles or containers to Mass in order to take some of the blessed water home for prayer and devotion. You may wish to use it to bless yourself or your children and grandchildren before bed each night, keep some in a small bowl or stoup at the entrance of your home, or take some to relatives, neighbours or friends who are housebound or unable to come to church. May this feast of the Holy Trinity renew in all of us the grace of our Baptism and the awareness that God dwells among His people in love.

God Bless Fr O’Brien

 

 

Saturday Vigil Mass Readers

We are looking for more parishioners to volunteer to read at the Saturday evening Mass. Proclaiming the Word of God is a valued ministry within our parish community, and we warmly encourage anyone who may be interested to take part. A sign-up sheet is available at the back of the church for those willing to volunteer or find out more information.

 

 

Deanery Corpus Christi Procession – 3pm Sunday 7th June

The Deanery Corpus Christi Procession is now not too far away, and I would again warmly encourage parishioners to consider attending this special afternoon of prayer and devotion in honour of Our Eucharistic Lord. Many of our parishioners will remember the beautiful Corpus Christi processions that were once such a familiar and cherished part of Catholic life. These were wonderful occasions when Catholics gathered publicly to give glory to God and witness to our faith in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. Sadly, in many places this tradition has diminished over the years. In response to this, the St John Vianney Deanery is organising a Corpus Christi Procession on Sunday 7th June at 3pm – 4pm at St Mary Magdalene’s RC Church, Burnley, BB12 0JP. The afternoon will include the Blessed Sacrament Procession, Eucharistic devotions, reflections from some of the deanery clergy, and the opportunity for the Sacrament of Confession. Thanks to the generosity of Paul and Jennifer Pickles, there will also be a minibus available from St Mary’s for parishioners who would like to attend but do not have access to transport. A sign-up sheet is now available at the stewards’ desk for those wishing to reserve a place. Occasions like these are so important for us as Catholics. They help us to strengthen and encourage one another in faith, and to gather together in prayer before Jesus truly present in the Eucharist. What makes such moments truly prayerful and grace-filled is simply this: that we come. That we accept the Lord’s invitation to be with Him. The Lord himself asks:  “Could you not watch one hour with me?” (Matt 26:40).  All are warmly welcome. Fr. O’Brien

 

 

Spend Some Time With the Lord This June

Throughout the month of June, St Mary’s Church will be open every Friday from 3:00pm until 9:00pm for extended Eucharistic Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament. In a world that is often busy, noisy and anxious, the Lord simply invites us to come and be with Him. These hours of Adoration are an opportunity to step away from the pressures of life and spend time in the peace and silence of Christ’s Real Presence. Why not make a little visit to church each Friday during June? Even if only for a few minutes, come and sit quietly with the Lord. Bring a friend, neighbour or family member along too. Many churches today are no longer open for extended periods of prayer, but here at St Mary’s we are trying to create that opportunity for people to “pop into church” and spend time with Jesus. Each Friday from 3:00pm until 9:00pm the church will remain open for anyone who wishes to come and pray, to listen, and simply to rest in the Lord’s presence — allowing Him to strengthen, heal, console and love us in the quietness of Eucharistic Adoration. The Fridays are: 5th June, 12th June, 19th June and 26th June.

The afternoon and evening will follow this pattern:

3:00pm – Divine Mercy Chaplet & Adoration

5:00pm – Confessions

6:00pm – Holy Mass

6:30pm – Continued Adoration

8:50pm – Benediction

“All who are thirsty, come to the water…” (Isaiah 55:1)

 

 

Pope Leo XIV – Magnifica Humanitas

The Holy Father has recently published his first encyclical letter, Magnifica Humanitas (“The Greatness of Humanity”), reflecting on the protection of the human person in the age of artificial intelligence. The Pope recognises that we are living through a profound moment of change in human history. At the heart of the encyclical is the dignity of the human person, which must always remain the guiding principle for scientific and technological progress. Drawing upon the rich tradition of Catholic Social Teaching, Pope Leo reminds us of the importance of the common good, solidarity and subsidiarity in responding to the challenges and opportunities of our age. Rather than a culture of power, division and war, he calls humanity to build a “civilisation of love” founded upon justice, dialogue, peace and shared responsibility. All Catholic’s are warmly encouraged to read this important and thought-provoking document. The full text of the encyclical can be found on the Vatican website:

https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/encyclicals/documents/20260515-magnifica-humanitas.html

 

 

Cause for Beatification of Pedro Ballester

The Diocese of Salford are pleased to announce the opening of the Cause for the Beatification and Canonisation of Pedro Ballester, a young Manchester man whose life of faith and witness continues to inspire many. Pedro died on 13 January 2018 at the age of 21. Born in Manchester in 1996, he grew up in a Catholic family and was widely known for his warmth, generosity and dedication. In his late teens, he committed his life fully to God as a member of Opus Dei, dedicating himself to its apostolic work. For more information about Pedro please see the following link - https://www.pedroballester.org.uk/about/who-is-pedro

 

 

Donate in memory this Father's Day

Donating to our diocesan charity Caritas Salford in someone's name is a special way to honour their memory while supporting people experiencing poverty, homelessness or isolation in our parishes.  This Father's Day, if you'd like to make an in memory donation, please visit the special space on the Caritas Salford website for remembering a loved one.  This also includes setting up a funeral collection in lieu of flowers and creating a personalised tribute memory page to save photos and messages.  Please visit www.caritassalford.org.uk/InMemory to access the relevant links or contact Kirstie Davidson for more information on 0161 817 2281.

 

 

Day for Life – Sunday 21 June 2026

Every individual, precisely by reason of the mystery of the Word of God Who was made flesh (Jn 1:14), is entrusted to the maternal care of the Church. Therefore every threat to human dignity and life must necessarily be felt in the Church’s very heart; it cannot but affect her at the core of her faith in the Redemptive Incarnation of the Son of God, and engage her in her mission of proclaiming the Gospel of life in all the world and to every creature (Mk 16:15). - Evangelium Vitae (The Gospel of Life) by Pope Saint John Paul II

There will be a Novena in preparation for the Day for Life which will run from Saturday 23^rd  May to the Feast of the Visitation (Sunday 31^st  May). This is the third year in which the Dioceses of England and Wales will join with those of Scotland and Ireland to pray this Novena. It will be available on the Bishops’ Conference website, as well as at https://prayforlife.ie/.

 

 

Caritas Volunteer Week

From 1 to 7 June it is national Volunteer Week, with various celebrations and activities taking place across the UK.  Our diocesan charity, Caritas Salford, has a wide range of volunteering opportunities available to help support their work with people in Greater Manchester and Lancashire who are experiencing homelessness, poverty and discrimination.  If you have a passion or skillset you'd like to share with others, you can find out more about the volunteering opportunities available on their website at www.caritassalford.org.uk/volunteer or contact Matt Yates at m.yates@caritassalford.org.uk

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pentecost Sunday - Sunday 24th May 2026

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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 24^th May

Pentecost Sunday

 

Saturday 23^rd May

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Pentecost Sunday

 

Sunday 24^th May

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

10am Mass for Pentecost Sunday

 

Tuesday 26^th May

11am Requiem Mass for Gerry Michael Keenan RIP

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

6pm Mass, Saint Philip Neri, Priest (Memoria)

St. Philip Neri, renowned for prayerfulness and humour, was born in Florence in 1515; he arrived in Rome, and after a mystical experience in the catacombs, gathered a community of friends to look after the sick, which eventually became the Oratory. He died in 1595.

 

Wednesday 27^th May

10am Requiem Mass for Eileen Aspin RIP

 

Friday 29^th May

10am Requiem Mass for Robert Doolan RIP

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

6pm Weekday Mass

 

Saturday 30^th May

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

10am Easter Weekday Mass

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Holy Trinity Mass

 

Sunday 31^st May

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

10am Mass for Holy Trinity Mass

 

Our Lady’s Lamp

This Week (23^rd May – 29^th May), Our Lady’s Lamp is for Daniel O’Brien Birthday Intention.

 

Last Week's Offertory Collection

£584.61. Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

Gift Aid Envelope number 60

If you currently have Gift Aid envelope number 60, please speak to a steward as soon as possible. It appears that this envelope has been taken in error and belongs to another parishioner. We are unable to claim Gift Aid on donations when we do not know who the claimant is for a particular envelope, so it is important that Gift Aid envelope number 60 is returned to the correct person. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

Pentecost Sunday — Come, Holy Spirit

This weekend the Church celebrates the great Feast of Pentecost — the moment when the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles gathered in prayer with Our Lady in the Upper Room. Filled with the gifts and power of the Holy Spirit, the frightened disciples were transformed into courageous witnesses to the Gospel, going out into the world to proclaim Jesus Christ. Pentecost is often described as the “birthday of the Church,” because through the coming of the Holy Spirit the Church was strengthened and sent forth on mission. The same Holy Spirit given to the Apostles is given to each one of us through Baptism and Confirmation. Jesus describes the Holy Spirit as the Helper, the Counsellor, and the Advocate — the One who strengthens us, guides us, comforts us, and enables us to do far more than we ever could simply through our own human efforts and abilities. In every age, the saints remind us that holiness is not achieved by our strength alone, but by allowing the Holy Spirit to work within us. To help parishioners deepen their relationship with God the Holy Spirit, there are a number of prayer cards and prayers to the Holy Spirit available at the back of church this weekend. Please feel free to take one home and use it in your own daily prayer if you find it helpful.

“Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful

and kindle in them the fire of your love.”

 

 

“Could You Not Watch One Hour With Me?”

Extended Friday Adoration During June

Since our Parish Lenten Retreat led by Angela McMorrow earlier this year, together with the recent visit of the relics to the diocese of the young Eucharistic saint, Saint Carlo Acutis, a number of parishioners have approached me asking whether there could be increased opportunities for prayer and Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament. I am very happy to help facilitate this. Personally, I know what a powerful and deeply real encounter it is to spend time in the Real Presence of Our Lord in the Holy Eucharist. In a busy and often noisy world, the Lord continually invites us to come and rest in His presence. Therefore, during the month of June, the church will remain open each Friday from 3:00pm until 9:00pm for extended Eucharistic Adoration. The afternoon and evening will take the following format:

3:00pm — Divine Mercy Chaplet and beginning of Adoration

5:00pm — Opportunity for the Sacrament of Confession

6:00pm — Holy Mass

6:30pm – 9:00pm — Continued Adoration

8:50pm — Solemn Benediction

In order for this prayerful endeavour to work well, we will need parishioners willing to commit to spending time with the Lord so that the Blessed Sacrament is never left unattended. We are therefore looking for at least two people to sign up for each of the following hours:

3:00pm – 4:00pm

4:00pm – 5:00pm

7:00pm – 8:00pm

8:00pm – 9:00pm

And the Friday dates would be – 5^th June, 12^th June, 19^th June, 26^th June. If you would be willing to offer an hour of your time to the Lord during the month of June, please sign one of the sheets available at the back of church. As Saint John Vianney once said: “He is there. He is waiting for you.” and in the Gospel, Jesus says to His disciples: “Could you not watch one hour with me?” (Matthew 26:40) May this become a beautiful opportunity for our parish community to deepen its love for the Eucharistic Jesus and to encounter the peace and presence of Christ more profoundly.

God Bless Fr. O’Brien

 

 

Cause for Beatification of Pedro Ballester

The Diocese of Salford are pleased to announce the opening of the Cause for the Beatification and Canonisation of Pedro Ballester, a young Manchester man whose life of faith and witness continues to inspire many. Pedro died on 13 January 2018 at the age of 21. Born in Manchester in 1996, he grew up in a Catholic family and was widely known for his warmth, generosity and dedication. In his late teens, he committed his life fully to God as a member of Opus Dei, dedicating himself to its apostolic work.

 

 

Deanery Corpus Christi Procession – Sunday 7th June

Many of our parishioners will remember the beautiful Corpus Christi processions that were once such a familiar and cherished part of Catholic life. These were wonderful occasions when we came together publicly to give glory to God and to witness to our faith in the Eucharistic Lord. Sadly, in many places, this tradition has waned over the years. Following the visit of the relics of St Carlo Acutis to the Diocese in February, many people were inspired anew by the deep Eucharistic faith of this young saint, who reminded us that: “The Eucharist is my highway to heaven.” Since then, there has been a real desire among the faithful to respond to this call to rediscover the centrality of the Eucharist in our lives. In response, the St John Vianney Deanery is organising a Corpus Christi Procession on Sunday 7th June at 3.00pm at St Mary Magdalene’s RC Church, Burnley. The afternoon will include the Blessed Sacrament procession, devotions, reflections from some of the deanery priests, and the opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Confession. What makes such an occasion truly prayerful—what makes it a moment of grace where faith is deepened and love for the Lord renewed—is simply this: that we come. That we accept the invitation.

The Lord himself beckons us:

“Could you not watch one hour with me?” (Matthew 26:40)

and again, in the mystery of the Eucharist:

“Do you also wish to go away?” (John 6:67)

He calls each of us personally. All are warmly welcome. The Lord is calling—will you come and be with Him?

 

 

Day for Life – Sunday 21 June 2026

Every individual, precisely by reason of the mystery of the Word of God Who was made flesh (Jn 1:14), is entrusted to the maternal care of the Church. Therefore every threat to human dignity and life must necessarily be felt in the Church’s very heart; it cannot but affect her at the core of her faith in the Redemptive Incarnation of the Son of God, and engage her in her mission of proclaiming the Gospel of life in all the world and to every creature (Mk 16:15). - Evangelium Vitae (The Gospel of Life) by Pope Saint John Paul II

There will be a Novena in preparation for the Day for Life which will run from Saturday 23^rd  May to the Feast of the Visitation (Sunday 31^st  May). This is the third year in which the Dioceses of England and Wales will join with those of Scotland and Ireland to pray this Novena. It will be available on the Bishops’ Conference website, as well as at https://prayforlife.ie/.

 

 

Free energy bill advice from Caritas

If you are worried about rising energy costs, our diocesan charity Caritas Salford runs a range of free drop-in advice sessions to help with everything from energy debt to making your home more energy efficient.  You can find out more about these and other ways the team can help people across Greater Manchester and Lancashire on the Caritas website at www.caritassalford.org.uk/energysupport

 

 

Caritas Volunteer Week

From 1 to 7 June it is national Volunteer Week, with various celebrations and activities taking place across the UK.  Our diocesan charity, Caritas Salford, has a wide range of volunteering opportunities available to help support their work with people in Greater Manchester and Lancashire who are experiencing homelessness, poverty and discrimination.  If you have a passion or skillset you'd like to share with others, you can find out more about the volunteering opportunities available on their website at www.caritassalford.org.uk/volunteer or contact Matt Yates at m.yates@caritassalford.org.uk

 

 

 

 

Seventh Sunday of Easter - Sunday 16th May

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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 16^th May

Seventh Sunday of Easter

 

Saturday 16^th May

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

10am Easter Weekday Mass

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for the Seventh Sunday of Easter

 

Sunday 17^th May

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

10am Mass for the Seventh Sunday of Easter

 

Friday 22^nd May

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

6pm Easter Weekday Mass

 

Saturday 23^rd May

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Pentecost Sunday

 

Sunday 24^th May

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

10am Mass for Pentecost Sunday

 

The Sanctuary Lamp

This Week (16^th May – 22^nd May), The Sanctuary Lamp is for Denis Higgins.

 

Our Lady’s Lamp

This Week (16^th May – 22^nd May), Our Lady’s Lamp is for Michael and Beverley Flanagan and Family.

 

Last Week's Offertory Collection

£744.08. Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

Gift Aid Envelope number 60

If you currently have Gift Aid envelope number 60, please speak to a steward as soon as possible. It appears that this envelope has been taken in error and belongs to another parishioner. We are unable to claim Gift Aid on donations when we do not know who the claimant is for a particular envelope, so it is important that Gift Aid envelope number 60 is returned to the correct person. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

Funerals and Prayer for the Faithful Departed

Sadly, many families within our parish community are presently experiencing periods of loss and grief following the deaths of loved ones. We ask you to keep them all in your prayers at this difficult time. For those who may wish to support the families through attendance and prayer, the following funeral arrangements are forthcoming:

Wednesday 27th May – 10:00am

Requiem Mass for Eileen Aspin RIP

Friday 29th May – 10:00am

Requiem Mass for Robert “Bobby” Doolin RIP

We are also awaiting formal confirmation regarding the funeral arrangements for Gerry Keenan RIP, who died recently. At present, the proposed arrangement is:

Tuesday 26th May – 11:00am (to be confirmed) Requiem Mass for Gerry Keenan RIP

Please keep all these members of our St. Mary’s parish family in your prayers.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord,

and let perpetual light shine upon them.

May they rest in peace. Amen.

 

 

Saint Carlo Acutis — A Saint for Our Young People

Following last weekend’s Masses, it was wonderful to see so many of our young parishioners excited and engaged by the arrival of our new statue of Saint Carlo Acutis. In a particular way, many of the children and young people attending the Vigil Mass were fascinated to discover that a saint could wear trainers and look so relatable to modern life. For some of them, it sparked the beautiful thought that perhaps they too could one day become saints like Carlo. To witness young people speaking about the faith with such enthusiasm and curiosity was a real blessing and encouragement for our parish community. Moments like these remind us that there truly is hope for the future of the Church, and we are blessed to have Saint Carlo praying for our children, grandchildren, and young people. As previously announced, the statue — beautifully carved from wood and crafted in Italy — has been generously funded through the kindness and support of our parish community. We also remain deeply grateful to Glen Leyland for generously sharing his gifts as a carpenter in crafting the plinth on which the statue now stands.

We warmly remind parishioners that the Bishop will formally bless the statue on Tuesday 30th June at 7:00pm, and everyone is warmly invited to attend this special occasion. We are also delighted that the Bishop will bring a relic of Saint Carlo Acutis for veneration, a relic gifted through the family and support network connected to Saint Carlo himself. This promises to be a particularly prayerful and grace-filled evening for our parish community.

 

 

Congratulations to Our First Holy Communion Children

Over these past weeks, it has been a great joy for our parish community to witness the faith, reverence, and enthusiasm of many of our young parishioners as they prepare for and celebrate their First Holy Communion. We give thanks to God for Hannah, Jude, Molly, and Nancy, who have all made their First Holy Communion over the last two weeks. Please continue to keep them and their families in your prayers as they continue their journey of faith. We also pray for Alan, Amanda, Lilly, and Pola, who are due to make their First Holy Communion at the end of this month. May this time of preparation be one filled with grace, joy, and a deeper love for Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.

Please also remember in your prayers Adam, Aemelia, Alex, Arthur, Flynn, Freddy, and Theo, who are currently attending catechism classes with Fr O’Brien as they learn about the Sacrament of Confession and prepare to make their First Holy Communion during the summer months. Seeing so many young people and families engaging with the life of the Church is a real blessing and encouragement for our parish community. If any families living within the parish would like their children to begin preparation for the Sacraments, (They must be 7+ and live in St Mary’s parish boundaries) please contact Ciara (parish administrator): stmarysoswaldtwistle@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

or speak to Fr O’Brien after the Mass you and our family usually attend.

 

 

Deanery Corpus Christi Procession – Sunday 7th June

Many of our parishioners will remember the beautiful Corpus Christi processions that were once such a familiar and cherished part of Catholic life. These were wonderful occasions when we came together publicly to give glory to God and to witness to our faith in the Eucharistic Lord. Sadly, in many places, this tradition has waned over the years. Following the visit of the relics of St Carlo Acutis to the Diocese in February, many people were inspired anew by the deep Eucharistic faith of this young saint, who reminded us that: “The Eucharist is my highway to heaven.” Since then, there has been a real desire among the faithful to respond to this call to rediscover the centrality of the Eucharist in our lives. In response, the St John Vianney Deanery is organising a Corpus Christi Procession on Sunday 7th June at 3.00pm at St Mary Magdalene’s RC Church, Burnley. The afternoon will include the Blessed Sacrament procession, devotions, reflections from some of the deanery priests, and the opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Confession. What makes such an occasion truly prayerful—what makes it a moment of grace where faith is deepened and love for the Lord renewed—is simply this: that we come. That we accept the invitation.

The Lord himself beckons us:

“Could you not watch one hour with me?” (Matthew 26:40)

and again, in the mystery of the Eucharist:

“Do you also wish to go away?” (John 6:67)

He calls each of us personally. All are warmly welcome. The Lord is calling—will you come and be with Him?

 

 

Day for Life – Sunday 21 June 2026

Every individual, precisely by reason of the mystery of the Word of God Who was made flesh (Jn 1:14), is entrusted to the maternal care of the Church. Therefore every threat to human dignity and life must necessarily be felt in the Church’s very heart; it cannot but affect her at the core of her faith in the Redemptive Incarnation of the Son of God, and engage her in her mission of proclaiming the Gospel of life in all the world and to every creature (Mk 16:15). - Evangelium Vitae (The Gospel of Life) by Pope Saint John Paul II

There will be a Novena in preparation for the Day for Life which will run from Saturday 23^rd  May to the Feast of the Visitation (Sunday 31^st  May). This is the third year in which the Dioceses of England and Wales will join with those of Scotland and Ireland to pray this Novena. It will be available on the Bishops’ Conference website, as well as at https://prayforlife.ie/.

 

 

Free energy bill advice from Caritas

If you are worried about rising energy costs, our diocesan charity Caritas Salford runs a range of free drop-in advice sessions to help with everything from energy debt to making your home more energy efficient.  You can find out more about these and other ways the team can help people across Greater Manchester and Lancashire on the Caritas website at www.caritassalford.org.uk/energysupport

 

 

Caritas Volunteer Week

From 1 to 7 June it is national Volunteer Week, with various celebrations and activities taking place across the UK.  Our diocesan charity, Caritas Salford, has a wide range of volunteering opportunities available to help support their work with people in Greater Manchester and Lancashire who are experiencing homelessness, poverty and discrimination.  If you have a passion or skillset you'd like to share with others, you can find out more about the volunteering opportunities available on their website at www.caritassalford.org.uk/volunteer or contact Matt Yates at m.yates@caritassalford.org.uk

 

 

 

Prayers and Funeral Arrangements

Funerals and Prayer for the Faithful Departed

Sadly, many families within our parish community are presently experiencing periods of loss and grief following the deaths of loved ones. We ask you to keep them all in your prayers at this difficult time. For those who may wish to support the families through attendance and prayer, the following funeral arrangements are forthcoming:

Friday 15th May – 10:00am

Requiem Mass for Roman Jakubowski RIP

Friday 15th May – 1:00pm

Funeral Service for Kathleen Dawson RIP

at Accrington Crematorium Chapel

Wednesday 27th May – 10:00am

Requiem Mass for Eileen Aspin RIP

Friday 29th May – 10:00am

Requiem Mass for Robert “Bobby” Doolin RIP

We are also awaiting formal confirmation regarding the funeral arrangements for Gerry Keenan RIP, who died recently. At present, the proposed arrangement is:

Tuesday 26th May – 11:00am Requiem Mass for Gerry Keenan RIP (to be confirmed. More details in the weekend parish newsletter)  

Please keep all these members of our St. Mary’s parish family in your prayers.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord,

and let perpetual light shine upon them.

May they rest in peace. Amen.

Sixth Sunday of Easter - Sunday 9th May

+

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 9^th May

Sixth Sunday of Easter

 

 

Masses & Liturgies for the following week ...

 

Saturday 9^th May

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

10am Easter Weekday Mass

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for the Sixth Sunday of Easter

 

Sunday 10^th May

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

10am Mass for the Sixth Sunday of Easter

 

Wednesday 13^th May

10am Requiem Mass for Marion Eccles RIP

 

Thursday 14^th May

THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD

This is a Holy Day of Obligation for Roman Catholics

"Today our Lord Jesus Christ ascended into heaven; let our hearts ascend with him. Listen to the words of the Apostle: If you have risen with Christ, set your hearts on the things that are above where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God; seek the things that are above, not the things that are on earth." - St. Augustine of Hippo

10am Mass, The Ascension of the Lord (Solemnity)

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

6pm Mass, The Ascension of the Lord (Solemnity)

 

Friday 15^th May

10am Requiem Mass for Roman Jakubowski RIP

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

6pm Easter Weekday Mass

 

Saturday 16^th May

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

10am Easter Weekday Mass

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for the Seventh Sunday of Easter

 

Sunday 17^th May

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

10am Mass for the Seventh Sunday of Easter

 

Our Lady’s Lamp

This Week (9^th May – 15^th May), Our Lady’s Lamp is for Martin Dwyer.

 

Last Week's Offertory Collection

£594.68. Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

The Ascension of the Lord – Holy Day of Obligation

On Thursday 14th May, the Church celebrates the Ascension of the Lord, when Jesus returned to the Father in heaven, entrusting His mission to the Apostles and to the Church. This is a Holy Day of Obligation, and all faithful Catholics are encouraged to take part in the celebration of Mass. At St Mary’s, Mass will be celebrated at 10:00am then later in the day there will be Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament at 5:00pm, followed by Mass at 6:00pm. We look forward to gathering together to celebrate this great feast.

 

 

New Statue of Saint Carlo Acutis

This weekend, parishioners will have the opportunity to view our new statue of Saint Carlo Acutis, which has been generously funded through the kindness and support of our parish community. The statue, beautifully carved from wood and crafted in Italy, will be formally blessed by the Bishop on Tuesday 30th June at 7:00pm. All parishioners are warmly invited to attend this special occasion and to join in celebrating this important addition to our church. We are also delighted that the Bishop has kindly offered to bring a relic of Saint Carlo for veneration. This relic has been gifted by the family and support network of St Carlo, making this a particularly grace-filled moment for our parish. I would like to extend a Thank You on behalf of the parish to Glen Leyland, who sharing his gifts as a carpenter generously, has made a plinth for the statue for St Carlo to go on that will be situated between by the column between the Lady Chapel and the sanctuary.

 

 

Deanery Corpus Christi Procession – Sunday 7th June

Many of our parishioners will remember the beautiful Corpus Christi processions that were once such a familiar and cherished part of Catholic life. These were wonderful occasions when we came together publicly to give glory to God and to witness to our faith in the Eucharistic Lord. Sadly, in many places, this tradition has waned over the years. Following the visit of the relics of St Carlo Acutis to the Diocese in February, many people were inspired anew by the deep Eucharistic faith of this young saint, who reminded us that: “The Eucharist is my highway to heaven.” Since then, there has been a real desire among the faithful to respond to this call to rediscover the centrality of the Eucharist in our lives. In response, the St John Vianney Deanery is organising a Corpus Christi Procession on Sunday 7th June at 3.00pm at St Mary Magdalene’s RC Church, Burnley. The afternoon will include the Blessed Sacrament procession, devotions, reflections from some of the deanery priests, and the opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Confession. What makes such an occasion truly prayerful—what makes it a moment of grace where faith is deepened and love for the Lord renewed—is simply this: that we come. That we accept the invitation.

The Lord himself beckons us:

“Could you not watch one hour with me?” (Matthew 26:40)

and again, in the mystery of the Eucharist:

“Do you also wish to go away?” (John 6:67)

He calls each of us personally. All are warmly welcome. The Lord is calling—will you come and be with Him?

 

 

Our Lady of Walsingham

This week, the children and staff of Sacred Heart and St Oswald’s Schools celebrated some beautiful liturgies in honour of Our Lady during this month of May, traditionally dedicated to Mary. This year, we introduced the children to the image and devotion of Our Lady of Walsingham (last May we reflected on Our Lady of Fatima). This was an opportunity not only to help the children learn about another important place of Christian pilgrimage in our country, but also to deepen their understanding of Mary and her example as a faithful disciple of the Lord. The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham has its origins in the year 1061, when Richeldis de Faverches, the Lady of the Manor, received a vision in which Our Lady asked her to build a replica of the Holy House of Nazareth — the home of the Holy Family. It was within this holy home that Mary welcomed the Lord with her “yes” to God: “Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it done unto me according to thy word.” It was there that Jesus was loved, cherished, and adored. Fr O’Brien encouraged the children to reflect on how we might imitate the Holy House of Nazareth in our own lives. How do we welcome the Lord each day — at school, in the playground, in the park, and within our homes and families? Through kindness, prayer, patience, and love of one another, we too can make room for Christ in our hearts and daily lives.

 

 

Free energy bill advice from Caritas

If you are worried about rising energy costs, our diocesan charity Caritas Salford runs a range of free drop-in advice sessions to help with everything from energy debt to making your home more energy efficient.  You can find out more about these and other ways the team can help people across Greater Manchester and Lancashire on the Caritas website at www.caritassalford.org.uk/energysupport