Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Sunday 8th February 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 8^th February 2026

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Saturday 7^th February

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

10am Mass, Votive Mass of Our Lady

‘The greatest saints, those richest in grace and virtue will be the most assiduous in praying to the most Blessed Virgin, looking up to her as the perfect model to imitate and as a powerful helper to assist them.’ - St. Louis Marie de Montfort

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

 

Sunday 8^th February

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

10am Mass for the Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

 

Tuesday 10^th February

5pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

6pm Mass, Saint Scholastica (Memoria)

St. Scholastica was the sister of St. Benedict. She was born in Umbria, Italy in 480 A.D. Like her brother she devoted her life to God, founding the Benedictine Sisters and dying on Monte Cassino in 547 A.D.

 

Wednesday 11^th February

12pm - 1pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Confessions

1pm – Healing Mass, Our Lady of Lourdes with the opportunity for the Sacrament of the Sick, followed by refreshments (see below for details)

In 1858 the Immaculate Virgin Mary appeared to St. Bernadette Soubirous, near Lourdes in France, in the cavern called “de Massabielle”. Through this poor, fourteen year old girl, Mary calls on sinners to change their lives. She has inspired in the Church a great love of prayer and good works, especially in the service of the poor and the sick.

6pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

7pm – Prayer and Healing Service

 

Thursday 12^th February

9am Weekday Mass

 

Friday 13^th February

11am Funeral Service for John Bedford RIP at Haslingden Cemetery Chapel

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

6pm Weekday Mass

 

Saturday 14^th February

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

10am Mass, Saints Cyril & Methodius, Bishops, Patrons of Europe (Feast)

Ss Cyril and Methodius were brothers and missionaries, who carried the Gospel into the Slavonic countries. They translated the liturgical books into the Slavonic language (inventing a new script, Cyrillic, to do do). Cyril died in 869 A.D, Methodius in 885 A.D.

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

 

Sunday 15^th February

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

10am Mass for the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

 

Sanctuary Lamp

This week (7^th February – 13^th February) the Sanctuary Lamp is for Special Intention.

 

Our Lady’s Lamp

This week (7^th February – 13^th February) Our Lady’s Lamp is for Norah & Alan Isherwood.

 

Last Week's Offertory Collection

£675.08. Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes - World Day of Prayer for the Sick

Wednesday 11th February is the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes and the World Day of Prayer for the Sick. To mark this important day, there will be several opportunities for prayer, healing, and quiet support within the parish.

12noon – 1pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Confessions

1.00 pm – Mass of Our Lady of Lourdes

This Mass will include the Sacrament of the Sick and will be followed by refreshments at the back of the church. Everyone is very welcome, especially those who are sick, elderly, or in need of prayer and encouragement.

7.00 pm – Prayer and Healing Service

In the evening there will be a simple Prayer and Healing Service, again with the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of the Sick. On the day, we will be blessed to be joined by Fr Michael Doody and Gill Atkinson from the Diocese of Leeds. They have kindly offered, for those who would like, to pray privately with them after each event. What does “praying with” mean? Quite simply, anyone who wishes may come forward with their intentions — worries, anxieties, illness, or concerns — and Fr Michael and Gill will spend a few quiet moments praying with them in the Lady Chapel. As Scripture reminds us of the power of prayer:

“Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” (Matthew 18:20) Please feel free to come along, whether you are seeking prayer for yourself or for someone you carry in your heart.

 

 

Update: Statue of Saint Carlo Acutis

Following last weekend’s newsletter item, I would like to thank everyone who took the time to speak with me at the back of church or to share their thoughts in other ways regarding the possibility of purchasing a statue of Saint Carlo Acutis for our parish. The response was resoundingly positive, particularly among our young parishioners, which was both encouraging and heartening. By Sunday afternoon, an additional £650 had been donated over the course of the weekend, bringing the total raised so far to £1,650 — just over half of the total cost of the statue. Having listened carefully to parishioners and reflected prayerfully on this, I have made the decision to proceed with the purchase once the full amount has been raised. For those who wish to contribute, there will be a clearly labelled donation box at the back of the church, under the large crucifix. Thank you for your generosity, encouragement, and continued support as we seek to reach out to all our young people — both those known to us and those yet to come. Saint Carlo Acutis, pray for us. God bless, Fr. O’Brien

 

Ash Wednesday – Day of Fast and Abstinence

Ash Wednesday will be observed on Wednesday 18^th February and marks the beginning of the season of Lent. Masses with the distribution of ashes will be celebrated at:

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

10am Mass

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

6pm Mass

Ash Wednesday is a day of fast and abstinence, and all parishioners are encouraged to attend Mass if possible as we begin our Lenten journey of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.

 

Parish Lenten Retreat 2026

We are delighted to announce that Angela McMorrow, facilitator and organiser of the Irish National Women’s Conference “Abide in His Love”, has kindly accepted our invitation to lead our Parish Lenten Retreat 2026. Angela will accompany us as we begin the holy season of Lent, offering time for reflection, prayer, and renewal of faith over three evenings.

Monday 23rd February

5.00pm – Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

6.00pm – Mass

7.00–7.45pm – Talk: Faith - Angela will share her own faith journey.

8.00–8.15pm – Refreshments

8.15pm – Liturgy: Adoration & Prayer with Individuals

The Blessed Sacrament will be exposed, with a kneeler placed before the Lord in the monstrance. Those who wish may come forward to surrender themselves to the Lord. The priests will gently lay hands on individuals and pray with them, asking the Holy Spirit to encourage, renew, and strengthen them in their daily Christian life.

 

Tuesday 24th February

5.00pm – Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

6.00pm – Mass

7.00–7.45pm – Talk: Our Lady, Spouse of the Holy Spirit & Disciple of Christ

8.00–8.15pm – Refreshments

8.15pm – Liturgy: Adoration & the Rosary

We will pray the Rosary before the Blessed Sacrament, fitting beautifully with the theme of Mary, allowing us to remain rooted in prayer before the Lord while meditating with Our Lady.

 

Wednesday 25th February

5.00pm – Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

6.00pm – Mass

7.00–7.45pm – Talk: Our Lady and the Holy Eucharist

8.00–8.15pm – Refreshments

8.15pm – Liturgy: Adoration & Healing Service

The final evening will include Adoration in the form of a Healing Service. The priest will walk among those gathered with the Blessed Sacrament, and people will be invited to reach out and touch the humeral veil. We will proclaim the Gospel of the woman with the haemorrhage from Saint Mark, highlighting this moment of faith, trust, and healing encounter with Christ.

 

St Mary’s – A place of prayer

The church is a sacred space where we come to listen to God’s voice. Switching off our mobile phones on entering helps preserve the prayerful atmosphere for everyone. It prevents unexpected interruptions and reminds us that this is time set aside for worship, not messages or notifications. For a short time, we can step away from the noise of the world and focus fully on the Mass. God deserves our undivided attention, even in silence

 

Mount Carmel RC High School – Ofsted Inspection
Mount Carmel RC High School has recently been inspected by Ofsted, and the report is now available. We thank God for the dedication of staff, pupils and families, and for the school’s continued commitment to educating young people in faith as well as learning.

The full report can be read on the school website:
https://www.mountcarmelhigh.co.uk/news/2026-01-27-ofsted-inspection-report-published

 

Mass for Engaged Couples to be celebrated by Bishop John Arnold

On Saturday 14 February, Bishop John will be celebrating a special Mass for engaged couples across the diocese. The Mass provides couples with an opportunity to seek God's blessing to guide and strengthen them during this time of preparation. Newly-married couples are also invited to receive a blessing in their first year of marriage. The Mass will take place at St Patrick's Church in Collyhurst on Saturday 14 February 2026 at 1:30pm.

 

Caritas Salford Call for Volunteers

Our diocesan charity, Caritas Salford, is looking for parish volunteers to help with a range of activities. These are flexible roles that can be tailored in line with your availability, skills or interests. If you're able to give even a few hours to help, they would be hugely grateful.  You can find out more at: www.caritassalford.org.uk/service/in-your-parish/

 

Talk from Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe OP

On 17 February, Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe OP will be giving a talk as part of a series of guest lectures from Manchester Universities Catholic Chaplaincy. The theme will be 'How we can keep our hope alive today.'  The talk will begin at 6PM at the Catholic Chaplaincy Church of the Holy Name, 339 Oxford Rd, Manchester M13 9PG. British Sign Language interpretation will be available. For more information please contact mucc@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

 

Lourdes Fundraiser Quiz Night
The Lourdes Committee would like to invite you to a fundraising event on Saturday 7 February. All funds raised will go towards arrangements for the 2026 Lourdes Pilgrimage.
Tickets are £10, payable on the door, and this will include a pie and pea supper.
The quiz begins at 7:30PM at St Luke’s Parish Hall, Swinton Park Road, Salford, M6 7WR.

 

Caritas Salford Call for Volunteers
Our diocesan charity, Caritas Salford, is looking for parish volunteers to help with a range of activities.  These are flexible roles that can be tailored in line with your availability, skills or interests.  If you're able to give even a few hours to help, they would be hugely grateful. 
You can find out more at: www.caritassalford.org.uk/service/in-your-parish/

 

 

Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Sunday 1st February 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 1^st February 2026

Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Saturday 31^st January

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

10am Mass, Saint John Bosco, Priest (Memoria)

St. John Bosco, born in 1815 in the north of Italy, dedicated his priestly ministry to working with young people, especially street children whom he encountered in Turin. He established the Salesians of Don Bosco and the Daughters of Mary, Help of Christians, to assist in this work. He died in 1888.

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for the Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

 

Sunday 1^st February

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

10am Mass, Mass for the Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

 

Tuesday 3^rd February

5pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

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

St. Blaise was a bishop in Sebaste and martyred in the fourth century. Devotion to him spread throughout the church during the Middle Ages. He is invoked for disorders of the throat.

There will be the traditional blessing of throats for all those who come to this Mass.

(See below for details)

 

Wednesday 4^th February

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

10am Votive Mass of Saint Joseph

10:35am Devotions to Saint Joseph

(At the foot of the parish statue of St. Joseph, see below for more details)

7pm Parish Bible Study

 

Thursday 5^th February

9:30am Mass, Saint Agatha, Virgin & Martyr (Memoria)

St. Agatha was martyred in Sicily in the persecution under Emperor Decius (240-251 A.D.). Her name is prayed during the Roman Canon.

 

Friday 6^th February

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

6pm Mass, Saints Paul Miki & Companions, Martyrs (Memoria)

St. Paul Miki & Companions were Japanese martyrs. Towards the end of the 16th century there began a persecution of the Church in Japan and among those arrested were Paul Miki, a young Jesuit, and 25 others, some as young as 13. They were all taken to Nagasaki where they were crucified in 1597.

 

Saturday 7^th February

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

10am Mass, Votive Mass of Our Lady

‘The greatest saints, those richest in grace and virtue will be the most assiduous in praying to the most Blessed Virgin, looking up to her as the perfect model to imitate and as a powerful helper to assist them.’ - St. Louis Marie de Montfort

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

 

Sunday 8^th February

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

10am Mass for the Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

 

Sanctuary Lamp

This week (31^st January – 6^th February) the Sanctuary Lamp is for Gerald & Jane McCaffery.

 

Our Lady’s Lamp

This week (31^st January – 6^th February) Our Lady’s Lamp is for Joyce Ashton.

 

Last Week's Offertory Collection

£662.65. Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

 

Caritas Retiring Collection

Last weekend we raised £224.42 to send to support the work of Caritas in our diocese. Thank you to all who contributed towards it.

 

 

Parish Donations

Many parishioners have asked whether it is possible to support the parish by Direct Debit, especially when they are unable to attend Mass at the weekend. We are grateful to confirm that donations can be made in this way, allowing continued support for St Mary’s even when you cannot be present. The name of the parish account is: SRCDTR ST MARY OSWALDTWISTLE

Thank you, as always, for your continued generosity and support of our parish.

 

 

Parish Lenten Retreat 2026

We are delighted to announce that Angela McMorrow, facilitator and organiser of the Irish National Women’s Conference “Abide in His Love”, has kindly accepted our invitation to lead our Parish Lenten Retreat 2026. Angela will walk with us and encourage us as we begin the holy season of Lent, offering time for reflection, prayer, and renewal of faith.

Dates: Monday 23rd – Wednesday 25th February 2026

Further details will follow nearer the time. Everyone is very welcome, spread the word.

 

 

Saint Carlo Acutis

Last weekend I was genuinely surprised by the number of people who spoke to me after Mass, or contacted me, about the possibility of purchasing a statue of Saint Carlo Acutis for our church. Many parishioners spoke about the importance of positively engaging with young people, and how a saint like Carlo could help them relate more easily to the faith. St. Carlo is often shown wearing trainers, carrying a phone and a laptop — very much a saint of our own time. Others felt that even if young people simply visited the church and saw Saint Carlo, it might prompt them to pause, think, and reflect on their own relationship with God, which in turn could lead to something deeper. Having listened carefully to these positive comments, I am happy to explore this idea further. I have contacted a company in Italy that produces respectful, high-quality, and tasteful religious statues. Their response was as follows:

Statue of Saint Carlo Acutis, made of painted wood from Val Gardena, carved by hand according to the old local tradition by specialised Italian craftsmen. The young man is represented with a backpack and a mobile phone in his hand, symbols of his role as a guide for young people and of his passion for technology. The symbol IHS, surrounded by thin white rays and depicted on his chest, recalls his deep love for God, especially in the Holy Eucharist. Suitable for indoor display. This handmade statue is available in a height of 100 cm at a cost of £3,279.15.

This is clearly a significant amount of money, and no decision has been made. I think it would be prudent to take this weekend to reflect and pray about it. If, after this, parishioners still feel keen to proceed, please let me know and we can consider beginning a fundraising appeal together.

God bless, Fr O’Brien

 

 

St Mary’s – A place of prayer

The church is a sacred space where we come to listen to God’s voice. Switching off our mobile phones on entering helps preserve the prayerful atmosphere for everyone. It prevents unexpected interruptions and reminds us that this is time set aside for worship, not messages or notifications. For a short time, we can step away from the noise of the world and focus fully on the Mass. God deserves our undivided attention, even in silence

 

 

Feast of Saint Blaise – Blessing of Throats

On Tuesday 3rd February, we will celebrate at 6pm the Mass of Saint Blaise. At the conclusion of Mass, there will be the opportunity to receive the traditional Blessing of Throats.

Saint Blaise is the patron saint of those who suffer from illnesses of the throat. The blessing is a long-standing Catholic practice in which the priest prays over each person, traditionally holding two crossed candles at the throat, asking God to grant protection from sickness and to preserve us in health. This blessing is a sign of God’s care and healing grace, and a reminder that we bring our everyday needs — including our health — before the Lord in prayer. All are welcome to remain after Mass to receive the blessing if they wish.

 

 

Devotions to Saint Joseph

On Wednesday 4^th February there will be the first Wednesday devotions to St. Joseph after the 10am Mass (at the foot of his statue at the back of church). The devotions will include praying the Litany of St. Joseph, the Memorare of St. Joseph and the Prayer of the Holy Cloak Novena. In these devotions our prayer is to ask St. Joseph to pray for our parish family and for those who have wandered away from the Church, that they may return and find a warm welcome.

 

 

Parish Bible Study

Our next session is on Wednesday 4^th February, from 7.00–8.00pm. All you need is yourself and a Bible — and a warm welcome awaits you!

 

Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes - World Day of Prayer for the Sick

Tuesday 11th February is the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes and the World Day of Prayer for the Sick. To mark this important day, there will be several opportunities for prayer, healing, and quiet support within the parish.

1.00 pm – Mass of Our Lady of Lourdes

This Mass will include the Sacrament of the Sick and will be followed by refreshments at the back of the church. Everyone is very welcome, especially those who are sick, elderly, or in need of prayer and encouragement.

7.00 pm – Prayer and Healing Service

In the evening there will be a simple Prayer and Healing Service, again with the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of the Sick. On the day, we will be blessed to be joined by Fr Michael Doody and Gill Atkinson from the Diocese of Leeds. They have kindly offered, for those who would like, to pray privately with them after each event. What does “praying with” mean? Quite simply, anyone who wishes may come forward with their intentions — worries, anxieties, illness, or concerns — and Fr Michael and Gill will spend a few quiet moments praying with them in the Lady Chapel. As Scripture reminds us of the power of prayer:

“Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” (Matthew 18:20) Please feel free to come along, whether you are seeking prayer for yourself or for someone you carry in your heart.

 

 

LAST CALL for Online Marriage Programme.

Does your marriage need some TLC? Need help with communication and trust? Retrouvaille helps marriages. It can bring hope and healing to relationships. Next date: 12th February 2026. www.retrouvaille.org.uk   Tel: 07887 296983

 

 

Mass for Engaged Couples to be celebrated by Bishop John Arnold

On Saturday 14 February, Bishop John will be celebrating a special Mass for engaged couples across the diocese. The Mass provides couples with an opportunity to seek God's blessing to guide and strengthen them during this time of preparation. Newly-married couples are also invited to receive a blessing in their first year of marriage. The Mass will take place at St Patrick's Church in Collyhurst on Saturday 14 February 2026 at 1:30pm.

 

 

 

 

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time - Sunday 25th January

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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

 

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

Sunday 25th January

 

 

Saturday 24th January

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

10am Mass, Saint Francis De Sales, Bishop & Doctor of the Church (Memoria)

St. Francis de Sales was born into a noble family in Annecy in 1597. He was ordained a priest and worked strenuously for the Church by distributing printed essays on the Faith. He became Bishop of Geneva and is patron saint of journalists and writers.

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass of the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

 

Sunday 25th January

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

10am Mass of the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

 

Tuesday 27^th January

1pm Funeral Service for Baby Thomas Christopher Burton RIP

5pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

6pm Weekday Mass

 

Wednesday 28^th January

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

10am Mass, Saint Thomas Aquinas, Priest & Doctor of the Church (Memoria)

St. Thomas was born in Aquino in 1225 A.D. Becoming a Dominican he studied at Cologne under St. Albert the Great. An outstanding thinker, writer and teacher, he died in 1274A.D.

 

Thursday 29^th January

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

10am Weekday Mass

 

Friday 30^th January

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

6pm Weekday Mass

 

Saturday 31^st January

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

10am Mass, Saint John Bosco, Priest (Memoria)

St. John Bosco, born in 1815 in the north of Italy, dedicated his priestly ministry to working with young people, especially street children whom he encountered in Turin. He established the Salesians of Don Bosco and the Daughters of Mary, Help of Christians, to assist in this work. He died in 1888.

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for the Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

 

Sunday 1^st February

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

10am Mass, Mass for the Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

 

Sanctuary Lamp

This week (24^th January – 30^th January) the Sanctuary Lamp is for Jean Dwyer.

 

Our Lady’s Lamp

This week (24^th January – 30^th January) Our Lady’s Lamp is for Jean Dwyer.

 

Last Week's Offertory Collection

£731.93. Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

Parish Donations

Many parishioners have asked whether it is possible to support the parish by Direct Debit, especially when they are unable to attend Mass at the weekend. We are grateful to confirm that donations can be made in this way, allowing continued support for St Mary’s even when you cannot be present. The name of the parish account is:

SRCDTR ST MARY OSWALDTWISTLE

Thank you, as always, for your continued generosity and support of our parish.

 

Caritas Collection

This weekend (24th/25th January) Caritas have their diocesan mandatory collection. There will be a basket at the back of church, under the large crucifix, for anybody who wishes to donate monies to this charity.

Caritas Salford Mission Statement: Our mission is to help those across the Diocese of Salford, experiencing poverty, disadvantage and discrimination to transform their lives with dignity. We provide a practical response to those in crisis, suffering hardship or who are at risk. We rebuild lives for the long-term, enabling people to live in a safe, healthy and secure environment. We call for a better, more just world where the voices of the poor are heard and acted upon and positively influence the systems, decisions and resources that affect those in need.

To find out more about the work of Caritas Salford and how you can get involved, please visit https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/campaign/caritas-sunday/. We invite you to keep our diocesan charity in your prayers over this coming week.

 

 

St. Carlo Acutis to Visit Diocesan Churches

This month (January 2026), the Diocese of Salford will host the relics of St. Carlo Acutis at two diocesan churches over five days. Born in 1991, St. Carlo is the first millennial saint and he is celebrated for his profound faith and use of the internet to log Eucharistic miracles from around the world. At just 7 years old, he wished to receive his First Holy Communion and told his parents, “This is my programme of life.” Alongside his digital Evangelism, St. Carlo is revered for his charitable work and great desire to help others. He gave his time towards helping those experiencing homelessness and hunger in Milan, even purchasing sleeping bags and food for them using his own money. St. Carlo was passionate about spreading the teachings of the Catholic Church up until his death from leukaemia at the age of 15.

About the Relics: Relics consist of physical remains of a saint that are venerated after their death, or they could be objects that have been in contact with a saint. We use the relics as a reminder of the saint’s life, to inspire our own path to sainthood, and to give praise and glory to God.

St Carlo Acutis Relic: This First Class pilgrim relic is a section of the Saint’s pericardium, the membrane that surrounds the heart. This is a sac filled with water that encloses the heart and the great vessels, holding them in place and protecting the body’s most important organ. The relic, therefore, is of major importance physiologically. The pericardium is preserved in a reliquary and is carried worldwide by the Diocese of Assisi, as custodian of the relics of Carlo Acutis, and respecting Church guidelines.

When and where can you visit the relics? St Mary’s RC Church, Burnley

Wednesday 28th January

10:00am – Opening Liturgy to Welcome the Relics, including explanation of the relics. Open to the faithful for veneration

2:30pm – Talk: Eucharistic Adoration and Miracles

3:00pm – Adoration and open visits

6:00pm-6:30pm – Talk: St Carlo Acutis: An Ordinary Life Becomes Extraordinary

6:30pm – Meditated Rosary with Sayings of Saint Carlo Acutis

7:00pm – Welcome Mass for the Relics with Bishop John Arnold

8:00pm – Church closed

Confessions will be available

Thursday 29th January

9:30am-3:30pm – [Closed for School Visit]

3:30pm – Open visits

4:30pm – Talk on the Eucharist followed by Adoration

6:00pm – Talk on Miracles and Graces of Saint Carlo Acutis

7:00pm – Thanksgiving Mass

8:00pm – Church closed

Parking & Further Information: St. Mary’s has on-site parking; there will be overflow parking at the Cricket Club across the road. St. Mary’s has disabled access – if you have any specific requirements please contact the Youth Team on youth@dioceseofsalford.org.uk. There will be no refreshments provided

Address for St Mary’s, Burnley: 3 Todmorden Road, Burnley, Lancashire BB10 4AU

 

 

Volunteering at St Mary’s – Stepping Forward in Service

St Mary’s continues to be a place of prayer, welcome, and encounter with the Lord because so many parishioners quietly and generously give their time. As parish life continues to grow, new volunteers are always needed to help support this shared mission. Offering your time — even in a small way — is a beautiful expression of faith and service. Below are just some of the areas where help is currently needed. All volunteers follow the Salford Diocesan Safe Recruitment process, and some roles require a DBS, which the Parish Safeguarding Representative and Diocese will support. St Mary’s is committed to a strong culture of safeguarding so that all may feel safe and welcome.

 

Stewards

Stewards play a vital role in the life of the parish. They help open the church for Masses, Adoration, Confessions, Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals, and are often the first friendly face people encounter. Stewards work as part of a team, so no one is overburdened. Contact: Jennifer Pickles after Sunday Mass or email jennifer.pickles@virginmedia.com

 

Church Cleaners

Our dedicated cleaning team ensures the church remains a prayerful and welcoming space. Cleaning takes place on a rota basis each Tuesday — the more volunteers, the lighter the commitment for everyone.  Contact: Karen Beard at jakey9998@aol.com

 

Garden and Grounds Team

Volunteers help care for the parish grounds, paths, and car park — essential work, especially during winter. The team usually meets on Wednesdays and no special skills are required. Contact: Navada Keenan at keenannavada@gmail.com

 

If you feel called to help, or would simply like more information, please do step forward. Together, we continue to make St Mary’s a place where all can encounter Christ.

 

 

LAST CALL for Online Marriage Programme.

Does your marriage need some TLC? Need help with communication and trust? Retrouvaille helps marriages. It can bring hope and healing to relationships. Next date: 12th February 2026. www.retrouvaille.org.uk   Tel: 07887 296983

 

 

Mass for Engaged Couples to be celebrated by Bishop John Arnold

On Saturday 14 February, Bishop John will be celebrating a special Mass for engaged couples across the diocese. The Mass provides couples with an opportunity to seek God's blessing to guide and strengthen them during this time of preparation. Newly-married couples are also invited to receive a blessing in their first year of marriage. The Mass will take place at St Patrick's Church in Collyhurst on Saturday 14 February 2026 at 1:30pm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A) - Sunday 18th January

Saturday 17th January

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

10am Mass Saint Anthony, Abbot (Memoria)

St. Anthony, inspired by the words of Jesus which he heard proclaimed in the Gospel at Mass, retired to the Egyptian desert at the age of twenty. He attracted many to the monastic life, dying in the year 356.

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass of the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

Sunday 18th January

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

10am Mass of the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

Wednesday 21st January

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

10am Mass, Saint Agnes (Memoria)

St. Agnes, Virgin & Martyr, was martyred at the age of twelve or thirteen, according to St. Ambrose, around the year 300 A.D.

7pm Parish Bible Study (see below for details)

Thursday 22nd January

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

10am Weekday Mass

Friday 23rd January

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

6pm Weekday Mass

 

Saturday 24th January

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

10am Mass Saint Francis De Sales, Bishop & Doctor of the Church (Memoria)

St. Francis de Sales was born into a noble family in Annecy in 1597. He was ordained a priest and worked strenuously for the Church by distributing printed essays on the Faith. He became Bishop of Geneva and is patron saint of journalists and writers.  

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass of the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

Sunday 25th January

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

10am Mass of the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

Sanctuary Lamp

This week (17th – 24th January), the Sanctuary Lamp is for Andrew Leyland RIP.

 

Our Lady's Lamp

This week (17th – 24th January), Our Lady's Lamp is for Matthew Brown.

 

Last Week's Offertory Collection

£685.68. Thank you for your kind generosity.

Parish Donations

Many parishioners have asked whether it is possible to support the parish by Direct Debit, especially when they are unable to attend Mass at the weekend. We are grateful to confirm that donations can be made in this way, allowing continued support for St Mary's even when you cannot be present. The name of the parish account is:

SRCDTR ST MARY OSWALDTWISTLE

Thank you, as always, for your continued generosity and support of our parish.

A BIG THANK YOU to all Parish Volunteers!

I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to all those who were able to come together for the Volunteers Jacob's Join last Sunday, and for the wonderful spread of food that was so generously brought and shared. It was a joyful and fitting way to bring the Christmas season to a close. Once again, thank you to everyone who, in so many ways, helps to make St Mary's a place of welcome, fellowship, and genuine encounter with the Lord. Your generosity, hospitality, and quiet dedication continue to be a great blessing to our parish community. God Bless Fr. O'Brien

Volunteering at St Mary's – Stepping Forward in Service

St Mary's continues to be a place of prayer, welcome, and encounter with the Lord because so many parishioners quietly and generously give their time. As parish life continues to grow, new volunteers are always needed to help support this shared mission. Offering your time — even in a small way — is a beautiful expression of faith and service. Below are just some of the areas where help is currently needed. All volunteers follow the Salford Diocesan Safe Recruitment process, and some roles require a DBS, which the Parish Safeguarding Representative and Diocese will support. St Mary's is committed to a strong culture of safeguarding so that all may feel safe and welcome.

Stewards

Stewards play a vital role in the life of the parish. They help open the church for Masses, Adoration, Confessions, Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals, and are often the first friendly face people encounter. Stewards work as part of a team, so no one is overburdened. Contact: Jennifer Pickles after Sunday Mass or email jennifer.pickles@virginmedia.com

Church Cleaners

Our dedicated cleaning team ensures the church remains a prayerful and welcoming space. Cleaning takes place on a rota basis each Tuesday — the more volunteers, the lighter the commitment for everyone.  Contact: Karen Beard at jakey9998@aol.com

 

Garden and Grounds Team

Volunteers help care for the parish grounds, paths, and car park — essential work, especially during winter. The team usually meets on Wednesdays and no special skills are required. Contact: Navada Keenan at keenannavada@gmail.com

If you feel called to help, or would simply like more information, please do step forward. Together, we continue to make St Mary's a place where all can encounter Christ.

A Reminder: Bringing Holy Water Home

Parishioners are kindly reminded to bring a bottle or suitable container to take blessed holy water home. This water reminds us of our Baptism — that we are children of God and deeply loved by Him, not because of what we do, but simply because we are His. Holy water may be used to bless ourselves each night, to bless children during bedtime prayers, or to bless the home each Sunday, helping us keep our baptismal identity alive in our daily lives. The Holy Water container is at the back of the church, please ask one of the stewards.

Caritas Sunday

Did you know that on Sunday 25th January, we will be marking Caritas Sunday? This annual occasion is a great opportunity to celebrate work of our diocesan charity, Caritas Diocese of Salford. To find out more about the work of Caritas Salford and how you can get involved, please visit https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/campaign/caritas-sunday/. We invite you to keep our diocesan charity in your prayers over this coming week.

Caritas Collection

On the weekend (24th/25th January) Caritas have their diocesan mandatory collection. There will be a basket at the back of church, under the large crucifix, for anybody who wishes to donate monies to this charity. Caritas Salford Mission Statement: Our mission is to help those across the Diocese of Salford, experiencing poverty, disadvantage and discrimination to transform their lives with dignity. We provide a practical response to those in crisis, suffering hardship or who are at risk. We rebuild lives for the long-term, enabling people to live in a safe, healthy and secure environment. We call for a better, more just world where the voices of the poor are heard and acted upon and positively influence the systems, decisions and resources that affect those in need.

Parish Bible Study – Returning This January

Our Parish Bible Study resumes every other Wednesday from 7.00–8.00pm, beginning Wednesday 21st January 2026. All are very welcome. We are continuing our journey through the Acts of the Apostles and will begin by exploring chapters 12 and 13. So far in Acts (chapters 1–10), we have seen the Risen Lord ascend into heaven, the Holy Spirit descend at Pentecost, and the Church born in power and courage. We have followed the apostles as they preach, heal, suffer persecution, and grow in faith, while the Gospel begins to move beyond Jerusalem to the wider world. We have witnessed God breaking down barriers, calling unexpected people, and showing that salvation in Christ is for all. You do not need any prior knowledge — just bring a Bible and a willingness to come to know the Lord better and to hear Him speak through His Word. This is a relaxed and prayerful opportunity to grow in faith together. Everyone is warmly welcome.

 

 

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.