Sunday 28th June 2026 - Solemnity of Saints Peter & Paul

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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 28^th June 2026

Solemnity of Saints Peter & Paul

 

 

Friday 26^th June

3pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and The Divine Mercy Chaplet

5pm Confessions

5:30pm Mass, Saint John Southworth, Priest & Martyr (Feast)

6:30pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

8:50pm Final Prayers with the Blessed Sacrament

 

Saturday 27^th June

9am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

10am Mass, St Cyril of Alexandria (Memoria)

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Solemnity of Saints Peter & Paul

 

Sunday 28^th June

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

10am Mass for Solemnity of Saints Peter & Paul

 

Tuesday 30^th June

7pm Celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation & Blessing of the new Parish Statue of

Saint Carlo Acutis with Bishop John Arnold

 

Wednesday 1^st July

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

10am Votive Mass of St Joseph

10:35am Devotions to Saint Joseph

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

 

Thursday 2^nd July

10am Funeral Service for Ann Power RIP

 

Friday 3^rd July

3pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and The Divine Mercy Chaplet

5pm Confessions

6pm Mass, Saint Thomas (Feast)

6:30pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

8:50pm Benediction

 

Saturday 4^th July

9am 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 Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Sunday 5^th July

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

10am Mass for Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

 

Last Week's Offertory Collection

£567.05. Thank you for your kind generosity.

£166.90 Day for Life Collection

 

The Sanctuary Lamp

This Week (27^th June – 3^rd July), The Sanctuary Lamp is for John and Emily Boyle.

 

Our Lady’s Lamp

This Week (27^th June – 3^rd July), Our Lady’s Lamp is for John and Gladys Boyle.

 

 

 

The Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul

This weekend the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, two of the greatest apostles and pillars of the early Church. Although they came from very different backgrounds, both men encountered the Risen Jesus, dedicated their lives to proclaiming the Gospel, and ultimately gave their lives as martyrs in Rome out of love for Him. St Peter, the fisherman chosen by Christ to lead His Church and was the first Pope, reminds us of God's mercy and the strength that comes from trusting in the Lord despite our weaknesses. St Paul, once a persecutor of Christians, became one of the Church's greatest missionaries after his dramatic conversion, showing us that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. As we celebrate their witness this weekend, we are invited to renew our own faith in Christ and to ask for the courage to proclaim the Gospel by the way we live our daily lives. May the prayers of Saints Peter and Paul strengthen us to be faithful disciples, confident in the hope and joy that come from following the Lord.

 

 

First Friday Eucharistic Adoration – Continuing the Invitation

Over the month of June, our church has remained open each Friday from 3.00pm until 9.00pm for Eucharistic Adoration, giving people the opportunity to come into the peace and silence of St Mary's, to pray, to be still, and to encounter the Lord in His Real Presence in the Blessed Sacrament. It has been a great blessing to see so many people making use of this opportunity. Many have travelled considerable distances to spend time before the Blessed Sacrament, recognising that it is becoming increasingly difficult to find churches that are open for extended periods of Eucharistic Adoration. It has been a privilege for St Mary's to provide this opportunity for prayer, silence and encounter with the Lord. These Fridays have only been possible because of the generosity of our parish volunteers, who have faithfully committed themselves to keeping watch with the Lord throughout the hours of Adoration. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who has given of their time in this way. In light of the many graces and blessings we have received during this month, we would like to continue this initiative on the First Friday of each month. However, this will only be possible if we have sufficient volunteers to ensure that the Blessed Sacrament is never left unattended. If you are able to give an hour of your time, or more, please consider signing the volunteer sheet at the back of church (beneath the large crucifix). Sign-up sheets are now available for Friday 3rd July and Friday 7th August, when the church will once again be open from 3.00pm until 9.00pm.

The programme will remain the same:

3.00pm – Divine Mercy Chaplet & Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament

5.00pm – Confessions

6.00pm – Holy Mass

6.30pm – Continued Adoration

8.50pm – Benediction

If you can help us continue this important ministry of prayer and welcome, please add your name to the rota. In doing so, you will not only be keeping watch with the Lord yourself, but also making it possible for others to come and spend time in the presence of Christ in the Holy Eucharist. "Could you not watch one hour with me?" (Matt. 26:40)

 

 

Bishop's Visit, Confirmations & Blessing of the St Carlo Acutis Statue

A reminder that this Tuesday 30th June at 7.00pm, we will be delighted to welcome our Bishop, Rt Rev John Arnold, to St Mary's Church. Bishop John will celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation for 10 young people from across the Deanery of St John Vianney, as they receive a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit and are strengthened in their Christian faith. During the Liturgy, the Bishop will also bless our new parish statue of St Carlo Acutis, the young Italian Catholic whose love for the Eucharist and inspiring witness to holiness continue to touch the lives of people throughout the world. We are especially grateful that Bishop John has kindly agreed to bring the diocesan relic of St Carlo Acutis, which will be available for veneration following the Liturgy. This promises to be a joyful and grace-filled evening for our parish and deanery. Everyone is warmly invited to attend and support our Confirmation candidates through their prayers and presence. Refreshments will be served after Mass, providing an opportunity to meet the Bishop and celebrate together as a parish community. Please do make every effort to join us for this special occasion.

 

 

Devotions to Saint Joseph

On Wednesday 1^st July, after the 10am Mass, there will be our first Wednesday devotions to St. Joseph (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 Church, that they may return and find a warm welcome.

 

 

Visit Our Parish Piety Stall

This weekend you will notice an expanded selection of items available on our Parish Piety Stall at the back of church as we prepare for the forthcoming visit of the Bishop and the blessing of our new statue of St Carlo Acutis. Among the new items available are devotional candles, prayer plaques, holy water bottles, rosaries and a variety of other devotional gifts. We also have a wide selection of cards for First Holy Communion, Confirmation, Baptism and Sympathy, together with gifts suitable for many special occasions. Whether you are looking for a meaningful gift, something to enrich your own prayer life, or a keepsake to mark the blessing of our statue of St Carlo, we hope you will take a few moments to browse the stall after Mass. There are also Sunday Missals (contain the readings and prayers for each Sunday Mass) available and more copies of the Simple Catholic Prayer Book. Every purchase helps to support the parish.

 

 

Prayer Time at Sacred Heart & St. Oswald’s Schools

This week Fr O’Brien was invited to both Sacred Heart School (Wednesday) and St Oswald's School (Friday) as they prepared to celebrate this weekend's Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul. The children gathered for a time of prayer and reflection, considering the lives of these two great saints. They reflected on how their deep love for Jesus and the courage they received from the Holy Spirit enabled them to accomplish extraordinary things through both their words and their actions. Although Peter and Paul were very different people, each responded generously to God's call and allowed Him to transform their lives. Fr. O’Brien reminded the children that, like Saints Peter and Paul, each one of us is free to choose Jesus and to walk in His ways. That choice is not always the easiest one, and at times it can be challenging to remain faithful. Yet when we choose Christ, He never leaves us to rely on our own strength. Instead, He gives us the grace, courage and perseverance we need to be His faithful disciples through all the joys, difficulties, successes and disappointments of life. May the witness of Saints Peter and Paul inspire us all to renew our own commitment to follow Christ with confidence, trusting that He will always provide us with the strength we need.

 

 

Book on the history of the Diocese of Salford presented to Pope Leo

Monsignor John Allen has harnessed his love of the geography and history of our diocese, by penning a special book which is being sold in aid of our diocesan charity Caritas Salford.  The book, A Popular History of the Diocese of Salford, was presented to Pope Leo recently, and  you can read about it, or get a copy for yourself or someone else, on the Caritas Salford website:

www.caritassalford.org.uk/pope-leo-book

 

 

Vacancies - Teaching and Learning Delivery Support

The Diocese of Salford is looking for a friendly, enthusiastic and organised person to support the delivery of environmental learning activities at the Laudato Si’ Centre, based at Wardley Hall. This is a rewarding opportunity to help pupils, school groups, parishes and community visitors connect with nature, explore creation and take part in meaningful outdoor activities. Closing date for applications: 12 noon on Tuesday 30th June 2026. For more information please see https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/news/vacancies/

 

 

New Volunteering Role at Caritas Salford

Our diocesan charity Caritas Salford has a team of almost 200 amazing volunteers, all of whom support their work with people in our parishes who are experiencing poverty, homelessness and discrimination. The team is looking for suitable volunteers who would be interested in giving a little time to work alongside families at their young parent accommodation in Blackburn - supporting and facilitating activities with the babies and their parents.  All roles will be subject to an enhanced disclosure and barring check. To find out more about this or other volunteering opportunities with the charity, visit www.caritassalford.org.uk/volunteer or contact Matt Yates: m.yates@caritassalford.org.uk

 

 

Fancy a Walk?

Caritas Salford is organising a 6-mile scenic, circular sponsored hike in Lancashire, along the delightful Downham Trail.  Taking place on 5 September, the walk is an undulating route with the potential for expansive views from the summit of Beacon Fell.

Visit www.caritassalford.org.uk/LancsWalk for more information or to register for your free place.

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday 21st June - Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time

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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 21^st June

Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

 

 

Friday 19^th June

3pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and The Divine Mercy Chaplet

5pm Confessions

6pm Weekday Mass, (Feria)

6:30pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

8:50pm Benediction

 

Saturday 20^th June

9am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

10am Mass, St Alban (Memoria)

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Sunday 21^st June

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

10am Mass for The Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Tuesday 23^rd June

9:15am Weekday Mass

 

Wednesday 24^th June

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

10am Mass, The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist (Solemnity)

 

Thursday 25^th June

10am Weekday Mass

 

Friday 26^th June

3pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and The Divine Mercy Chaplet

5pm Confessions

5:30pm Mass, Saint John Southworth, Priest & Martyr (Feast)

6:30pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

 

Saturday 27^th June

9am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

10am Mass, St Cyril of Alexandria (Memoria)

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Saints Peter & Paul (Memoria)

 

Sunday 28^th June

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

10am Mass for Saints Peter & Paul (Memoria)

 

 

Last Week's Offertory Collection

£630.90. Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

Happy Father's Day

On this Father's Day, we offer our prayers for all fathers, grandfathers, godfathers, and those who fulfil a fatherly role in the lives of others. We thank God for their love, sacrifice, guidance, and care. We also pray for those fathers who are no longer with us and whose absence we fell every day. May they rest in the peace of Christ and continue to live on in the hearts of those who love them. May God bless all fathers today and always.

 

 

Day for Life 2026 – Special Collection this Sunday (21^st June)

This Sunday, the Church in England and Wales will mark Day for Life, an annual day of prayer, reflection and witness dedicated to promoting the dignity and value of every human life from conception to natural death. This year's theme is "The Wonder of the Child in the Womb", inviting us to reflect on the gift of human life before birth and to pray for parents, families, healthcare professionals, and all who support and protect life. There will be an opportunity to support the work of the Day for Life Fund, which assists organisations and projects that uphold the Church's teaching on the sanctity of life and provide practical support to those facing difficult circumstances. For those who wish to make a financial donation, a basket will be placed beneath the large crucifix at the back of church before and after Masses next weekend. Thank you for your generosity and for your prayers as we continue to uphold the dignity of every human person, created in the image and likeness of God.

 

 

A Word of Thanks

This past week I had the privilege of attending the Intercession for Priests' Retreat at Hinsley Hall, Leeds led by Sr Briege McKenna. It was a grace-filled time of prayer, reflection, renewal, and fellowship with brother priests. During this dedicated time of prayer, the parish, all parishioners and your families were very much in my thoughts and prayers. I brought before the Lord your intentions, your joys and sorrows, your hopes and concerns, asking His blessing upon each of you. I would also like to thank you for being the parish family that helps sustain me in my own journey of faith and priesthood. The support, kindness, encouragement, and prayers that I receive from you are a constant source of strength and grace. It is a privilege to serve as your parish priest, and I am deeply grateful for the faith we share and the way we walk together as a parish community. Please continue to keep me in your prayers, as I assure you of mine.

God Bless Fr. O’Brien

 

 

The Sacrament of the Sick: A Gift of the Lord's Healing Love

The number of parishioners who came forward at the end of the Masses last weekend to receive the Sacrament of the Sick was a beautiful reminder that this sacrament remains a powerful gift of God's grace and healing. Jesus came among us to teach, to preach, and to heal, and through the ministry of the Church He continues to reach out with His healing love today. Later in the year we hope to hold another Healing Day, similar to the one celebrated on the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes on 11th February, when the Sacrament of the Sick and prayer ministry will be available for all who wish to receive them. In the meantime, please never feel anxious or reluctant to ask for the Sacrament of the Sick, whether for yourself or for a loved one. This sacrament is not only for those who are near death, but for anyone whose health is seriously affected by illness (mind and body), age, frailty or addiction. The Lord desires to bring strength, peace, comfort, and healing to His people. That is why He entrusted this wonderful sacrament to His Church. As St James reminds us:

"Are any among you sick? They should send for the priests of the Church, and they should pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up." (James 5:14–15)

If you or a member of your family would like to receive the Sacrament of the Sick, please do not hesitate to contact me. God Bless Fr. O’Brien

 

 

Spend Some Time With the Lord in Eucharistic Adoration

Throughout this month of June, St Mary’s will remain open every Friday from 3.00pm until 9.00pm for prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. In the midst of busy lives, endless demands and constant distractions, the Lord continues to invite us to come and spend time with Him. Whether for ten minutes or several hours, why not make a visit to church this Friday? Come and sit quietly before the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. Bring your prayers, your worries, your thanksgiving, or simply your presence.

In his Encyclical Ecclesia de Eucharistia, St John Paul II beautifully wrote:

“It is pleasant to spend time with him, to lie close to his breast like the Beloved Disciple and to feel the infinite love present in his heart. If in our time Christians must be distinguished above all by the ‘art of prayer’, how can we not feel a renewed need to spend time in spiritual converse, in silent adoration, in heartfelt love before Christ present in the Most Holy Sacrament? How often, dear brothers and sisters, have I experienced this, and drawn from it strength, consolation and support!”

Many churches today are no longer open for extended periods of quiet prayer. Here at St Mary's, we are seeking to provide that opportunity for people to "drop in", encounter the Lord, and spend time in the peace of His Eucharistic Presence. In the silence of Adoration, Christ strengthens us, consoles us, heals us and draws us ever closer to Himself. The programme each Friday is as follows:

3.00pm – Divine Mercy Chaplet & Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament

5.00pm – Confessions

6.00pm – Holy Mass

6.30pm – Continued Adoration

8.50pm – Benediction

The remaining Fridays are 19^th, and 26^th June. "All who are thirsty, come to the water..." (Isaiah 55:1)

 

 

Bishop's Visit, Confirmations & Blessing of the St Carlo Acutis Statue

A reminder that on Tuesday 30th June at 7.00pm, we will be delighted to welcome our Bishop, Rt Rev John Arnold, to St Mary's Church. Bishop John will celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation for 11 young people from across the Deanery of St John Vianney, as they receive a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit and are strengthened in their Christian faith. During the Liturgy, the Bishop will also bless our new parish statue of St Carlo Acutis, the young Italian Catholic whose love for the Eucharist and inspiring witness to holiness continue to touch the lives of people throughout the world. We are especially grateful that Bishop John has kindly agreed to bring the diocesan relic of St Carlo Acutis, which will be available for veneration following the Liturgy. This promises to be a joyful and grace-filled evening for our parish and deanery. Everyone is warmly invited to attend and support our Confirmation candidates through their prayers and presence. Refreshments will be served after Mass, providing an opportunity to meet the Bishop and celebrate together as a parish community. Please do make every effort to join us for this special occasion.

 

 

A Joyful Celebration with Sacred Heart School

It was a great joy to welcome the children and staff of Sacred Heart School to our 10.00am Parish Mass on the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus last Friday. The confidence, enthusiasm, and joy with which the children sang at the Mass was a blessing for us all. Their presence helped to make the celebration especially prayerful reminding us of the vitality and hope that our young people bring to the life of the Church. As we give thanks for their witness of faith, let us continue to keep all our young people in our prayers. Sadly, many children and young people today never have the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Holy Mass or to spend time in the presence of Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. May we never take these precious gifts for granted, and may we pray that more young hearts will come to know the love of Christ and the peace that is found in His presence. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus continue to bless and guide all the children, families, and staff of our school community.

 

 

 

Sacred Heart Primary School

Sacred Heart RC Primary School is looking for any passionate parishioners who would be willing to come into our primary school and share their faith with us and their understanding of why having Jesus as a friend is so important with our lovely Reception class. Anyone who would like to come and visit school please contact Mr Cross at: sam.cross@sacredheart-church.lancs.sch.uk.

 

 

Prayers and resources for Refugee Week and World Day of Migrants & Refugees

Caritas Salford has a range of prayers and other resources to help as you mark Refugee Week this month. You can find these and other materials on the Caritas website: www.caritassalford.org.uk/resources

To read more about the week, click here: www.caritassalford.org.uk/refugees

 

 

New Volunteering Role at Caritas Salford

Our diocesan charity Caritas Salford has a team of almost 200 amazing volunteers, all of whom support their work with people in our parishes who are experiencing poverty, homelessness and discrimination. The team is looking for suitable volunteers who would be interested in giving a little time to work alongside families at their young parent accommodation in Blackburn - supporting and facilitating activities with the babies and their parents.  All roles will be subject to an enhanced disclosure and barring check. To find out more about this or other volunteering opportunities with the charity, visit www.caritassalford.org.uk/volunteer or contact Matt Yates: m.yates@caritassalford.org.uk

 

 

 

 

Sunday 14th June - Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

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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 14^th June

Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Saturday 13th June

9am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

10am Mass, The Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

 

Sunday 14th June

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

10am Mass for The Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Wednesday 17^th June

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

10am Weekday Mass (Feria)

 

Friday 19^th June

3pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and The Divine Mercy Chaplet

5pm Confessions

6pm Weekday Mass (Feria)

6:30pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

8:50pm Benediction

 

Saturday 20^th June

9am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

10am Mass, St Alban (Memoria)

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

 

Sunday 21^st June

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

10am Mass for The Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

 

 

Sanctuary Lamp

This week (13^th June – 19^th June) Sanctuary Lamp is for Claire Hilton.

 

Our Lady's Lamp

This week (13^th June – 19^th June) Our Lady's Lamp is for Linda Usbourne.

 

Last Week's Offertory Collection

£618.38. Thank you for your kind generosity.

 

 

Deanery Corpus Christi Procession – A Wonderful Witness of Faith

What a beautiful and spiritually uplifting afternoon we shared at the Deanery Corpus Christi Procession last Sunday at St. Mary Magdalene’s, Burnley. The large crowd of Catholics who came together to process with Our Eucharistic Lord was both inspiring and encouraging. It was a wonderful public witness to our faith and devotion to Jesus Christ truly present in the Blessed Sacrament. Every parish from across the Deanery of St John Vianney was represented, including parishes from Pendle, Rossendale, Hyndburn and Burnley, with some people travelling from even further afield to take part. It was especially heartening that every priest of the deanery was present. The brass band and the enthusiastic singing added greatly to the joy and solemnity of the occasion. Despite some threatening weather, the rain held off and, remarkably, the sunshine appeared just when it was needed. I am convinced this was due to the intercession of Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle! The event was such a success that the Dean has already been approached about making the procession an annual deanery celebration. I am sure that all who attended would wholeheartedly support this idea.

Thanks to Tom Williamson for capturing this first Corpus Christi Procession of the Deanery of St John Vianney on camera. Jacqueline will be sharing photographs on our parish social media pages over the weekend. Let us continue to give glory and honour to Jesus in the Holy Eucharist. Out of love for us, He humbles Himself and remains truly present in the Blessed Sacrament, inviting us into a deeper relationship with Him. May the witness of last Sunday inspire us to renew our faith in His Real Presence and to place Him ever more firmly at the centre of our lives. God Bless Fr. O’Brien

 

 

Day for Life 2026 – Special Collection Next Sunday (21^st June)

Next Sunday, the Church in England and Wales will mark Day for Life, an annual day of prayer, reflection and witness dedicated to promoting the dignity and value of every human life from conception to natural death. This year's theme is "The Wonder of the Child in the Womb", inviting us to reflect on the gift of human life before birth and to pray for parents, families, healthcare professionals, and all who support and protect life. There will be an opportunity to support the work of the Day for Life Fund, which assists organisations and projects that uphold the Church's teaching on the sanctity of life and provide practical support to those facing difficult circumstances. For those who wish to make a financial donation, a basket will be placed beneath the large crucifix at the back of church before and after Masses next weekend. Thank you for your generosity and for your prayers as we continue to uphold the dignity of every human person, created in the image and likeness of God.

 

 

Spend Some Time With the Lord in Eucharistic Adoration

Throughout this month of June, St Mary’s will remain open every Friday from 3.00pm until 9.00pm for prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. In the midst of busy lives, endless demands and constant distractions, the Lord continues to invite us to come and spend time with Him. Whether for ten minutes or several hours, why not make a visit to church this Friday? Come and sit quietly before the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. Bring your prayers, your worries, your thanksgiving, or simply your presence.

In his Encyclical Ecclesia de Eucharistia, St John Paul II beautifully wrote:

“It is pleasant to spend time with him, to lie close to his breast like the Beloved Disciple and to feel the infinite love present in his heart. If in our time Christians must be distinguished above all by the ‘art of prayer’, how can we not feel a renewed need to spend time in spiritual converse, in silent adoration, in heartfelt love before Christ present in the Most Holy Sacrament? How often, dear brothers and sisters, have I experienced this, and drawn from it strength, consolation and support!”

Many churches today are no longer open for extended periods of quiet prayer. Here at St Mary's, we are seeking to provide that opportunity for people to "drop in", encounter the Lord, and spend time in the peace of His Eucharistic Presence. In the silence of Adoration, Christ strengthens us, consoles us, heals us and draws us ever closer to Himself. The programme each Friday is as follows:

3.00pm – Divine Mercy Chaplet & Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament

5.00pm – Confessions

6.00pm – Holy Mass

6.30pm – Continued Adoration

8.50pm – Benediction

The remaining Fridays are 12^th, 19^th, and 26^th June. "All who are thirsty, come to the water..." (Isaiah 55:1)

 

 

Congratulations to Mr & Mrs Green

Congratulations to Lisel Barron and Paul Green, who were married here at St Mary's on Friday 5th June. Many parishioners will remember Lisel as a dedicated altar server who served faithfully in our parish for many years before leaving to pursue her nursing studies. It was a great joy to welcome her back to St Mary's for the celebration of her wedding. We assure Lisel and Paul of our prayers and ask God's abundant blessings upon them as they begin the wonderful adventure of the vocation of Christian marriage together. May their love continue to grow stronger with each passing year, and may Christ always be at the centre of their home and family life. As Pope Leo XIV recently reminded us: "Marriage is not an ideal but the measure of true love between a man and a woman: a love that is total, faithful and fruitful." May the Lord bless Mr and Mrs Green with many happy years together.

 

 

Bishop's Visit, Confirmations & Blessing of the St Carlo Acutis Statue

A reminder that on Tuesday 30th June at 7.00pm, we will be delighted to welcome our Bishop, Rt Rev John Arnold, to St Mary's Church. Bishop John will celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation for 11 young people from across the Deanery of St John Vianney, as they receive a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit and are strengthened in their Christian faith. During the Liturgy, the Bishop will also bless our new parish statue of St Carlo Acutis, the young Italian Catholic whose love for the Eucharist and inspiring witness to holiness continue to touch the lives of people throughout the world. We are especially grateful that Bishop John has kindly agreed to bring the diocesan relic of St Carlo Acutis, which will be available for veneration following the Liturgy. This promises to be a joyful and grace-filled evening for our parish and deanery. Everyone is warmly invited to attend and support our Confirmation candidates through their prayers and presence. Refreshments will be served after Mass, providing an opportunity to meet the Bishop and celebrate together as a parish community. Please do make every effort to join us for this special occasion.

 

 

Prayers and resources for Refugee Week and World Day of Migrants & Refugees

Caritas Salford has a range of prayers and other resources to help as you mark Refugee Week this month. You can find these and other materials on the Caritas website: www.caritassalford.org.uk/resources

To read more about the week, click here: www.caritassalford.org.uk/refugees

 

 

New Volunteering Role at Caritas Salford

Our diocesan charity Caritas Salford has a team of almost 200 amazing volunteers, all of whom support their work with people in our parishes who are experiencing poverty, homelessness and discrimination. The team is looking for suitable volunteers who would be interested in giving a little time to work alongside families at their young parent accommodation in Blackburn - supporting and facilitating activities with the babies and their parents.  All roles will be subject to an enhanced disclosure and barring check. To find out more about this or other volunteering opportunities with the charity, visit www.caritassalford.org.uk/volunteer or contact Matt Yates: m.yates@caritassalford.org.uk

 

 

Fancy a Walk?

Caritas Salford is organising a 6-mile scenic, circular sponsored hike in Lancashire, along the delightful Downham Trail.  Taking place on 5 September, the walk is an undulating route with the potential for expansive views from the summit of Beacon Fell.

Visit www.caritassalford.org.uk/LancsWalk for more information or to register for your free place.

 

 

The Solemnity of Corpus Christi, Sunday 7th June 2026

                                                                                                The Solemnity of Corpus Christi

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Masses and Liturgies for this coming week…

Friday 5th June

3pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and The Divine Mercy Chaplet

5pm Confessions

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

8:50pm Benediction

Saturday 6th June

9am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

10am Mass of Our Lady

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil Mass for The Solemnity of Corpus Christi followed by Solemn Benediction (Year A)

Sunday 7th June

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

10am Mass for The Solemnity of Corpus Christi followed by Solemn Benediction (Year A)

3pm St John Vianney Deanery Corus Christi Procession at St Mary Magdalene Roman Catholic Church, Gawthorpe Rd, Burnley, BB12 0JP

Monday 8th June

9:15am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

10am Mass

7pm Diamond Jubilee Mass for Fr Robert Livesey at St Jospeh’s Roman Catholic Church, Accrington

Thursday 11th June

9:15am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

10am Mass, Saint Barnabas, Apostle

Friday 12th June

10am Mass, Solemnity of The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus with Sacred Heart School

3pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and The Divine Mercy Chaplet

5pm Confessions

6pm Mass, Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

8:50pm Benediction  

Saturday 13th June

9am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions

10am Mass, The Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary

6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World

6:30pm Vigil

Sunday 14th June

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

10am Mass for The Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

Last Weekend's Offertory Collection

£631.80. Thank you for your generosity.

Sanctuary Lamp Intentions

The Sanctuary Lamp this week is burning in prayer for Bryan Hammond.

Our Lady's Lamp is for the intentions of the Fussell Family    

The Solemnity of Corpus Christi

This weekend the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi). The feast invites us to deepen our faith in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist, the source and summit of the Church's life. As we give thanks for this great gift, we are reminded that our worship, prayer and service all flow from our encounter with Christ in the Blessed Sacrament. As Bishop Paul Mason (Catholic Bishop of the Forces) reminds us:

“The Blessed Sacrament is something of a North Star. It gives us light, it gives us direction, it gives purpose, and without that, we can end up a bit lost. Simply being able to spend time before the Blessed Sacrament ensures that we don’t spin off on a frolic of our own pursuing do-goodery. This is the work of God that we’re called to be engaged in. If we don’t spend time in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, it would be so easy to simply end up in a type of activism which doesn’t go anywhere. We need to be sure that, in the work that we do, that we’re following God’s promptings. Being able to spend time before the Blessed Sacrament – some people say wasting time with Almighty God before the Blessed Sacrament – is so important to feed our souls and give us that sense of where we’re going and what we’re supposed to be doing. The real presence of Christ lies at the heart of our faith.” At the end of each of the Masses this weekend, here at St. Mary’s, there will be Solemn Benediction.    

Deanery Corpus Christi Procession – This Sunday at 3.00pm

The Deanery Corpus Christi Procession takes place this Sunday, and everyone is warmly encouraged to join us for this special afternoon of prayer and devotion in honour of Our Eucharistic Lord. The procession will begin at 3.00pm and will include Eucharistic devotions, reflections from members of the deanery clergy, and the opportunity for the Sacrament of Confession. Please note: if the weather is unsuitable for an outdoor procession, the event will take place inside St Mary Magdalene’s RC Church, Gawthorpe Road, Burnley, Lancashire, BB12 0JP. Those travelling by car may wish to note this address.  Thanks to the generosity of Paul and Jennifer Pickles, a minibus will be available from St Mary's for parishioners who would like to attend but do not have access to transport. A sign-up sheet remains available at the stewards' desk for those wishing to reserve a place. Occasions like these are so important for us as Catholics. They strengthen and encourage us in faith and draw us together before Jesus truly present in the Blessed Sacrament. What makes such moments 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?” (Mt 26:40). All are warmly welcome.

 

 

Spend Some Time With the Lord – Extended Eucharistic Adoration Begins Today!

A gentle reminder that our extended Fridays of Eucharistic Adoration begin today (Friday 5th June) at St Mary's. Throughout the month, the church will remain open every Friday from 3.00pm until 9.00pm for prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. In the midst of busy lives, endless demands and constant distractions, the Lord continues to invite us to come and spend time with Him. Whether for ten minutes or several hours, why not make a visit to church this Friday? Come and sit quietly before the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. Bring your prayers, your worries, your thanksgiving, or simply your presence.

In his Encyclical Ecclesia de Eucharistia, St John Paul II beautifully wrote:

“It is pleasant to spend time with him, to lie close to his breast like the Beloved Disciple and to feel the infinite love present in his heart. If in our time Christians must be distinguished above all by the ‘art of prayer’, how can we not feel a renewed need to spend time in spiritual converse, in silent adoration, in heartfelt love before Christ present in the Most Holy Sacrament? How often, dear brothers and sisters, have I experienced this, and drawn from it strength, consolation and support!”

Many churches today are no longer open for extended periods of quiet prayer. Here at St Mary's, we are seeking to provide that opportunity for people to "drop in", encounter the Lord, and spend time in the peace of His Eucharistic Presence. In the silence of Adoration, Christ strengthens us, consoles us, heals us and draws us ever closer to Himself. The programme each Friday is as follows:

3.00pm – Divine Mercy Chaplet & Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament

5.00pm – Confessions

6.00pm – Holy Mass

6.30pm – Continued Adoration

8.50pm – Benediction

The remaining Fridays are 12th, 19th and 26th June. "All who are thirsty, come to the water..." (Isaiah 55:1)

Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus – Friday 12th June

This Friday the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, one of the most beloved feasts of the liturgical year. The Sacred Heart is a powerful symbol of Christ's immense love for humanity – a love that is faithful, merciful, compassionate and self-sacrificing. Through devotion to the Sacred Heart, we are invited to reflect upon the depth of God's love revealed in Jesus Christ and to respond by placing our trust in Him and seeking to love others as He has loved us.

We will celebrate the Solemnity at St Mary's with the following programme:

10.00am – Holy Mass with the children and staff of Sacred Heart School

3.00pm – Divine Mercy Chaplet and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament

3.00pm – 9.00pm – Extended Eucharistic Adoration

5pm Confessions

6.00pm – Solemn Mass of the Sacred Heart

All are warmly invited to join us as we honour the Sacred Heart of Jesus and spend time in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, drawing strength and consolation from the Lord's loving presence.

Safeguarding at St Mary's

Last Thursday, Vinette Davitt, our Parish Safeguarding Representative, and I attended the Diocese's annual safeguarding training at the Cathedral Centre. The training provided valuable updates and guidance to help ensure that St Mary's continues to be a safe, welcoming and caring place where people of all ages can encounter the presence and love of the Lord. We were reminded that safeguarding is not simply the responsibility of a few individuals but of the whole parish community. Each of us has a duty of care towards one another and a responsibility to help create an environment where everyone is treated with dignity, respect and compassion. This commitment is rooted in the Gospel itself. Jesus says: "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; even as I have loved you, that you also love one another" (John 13:34). Safeguarding is one practical way in which we seek to live out this commandment in the life of our parish. Vinette continues to meet with parish volunteers on Fridays to complete the necessary safeguarding documentation. If you have not yet been contacted, please do not worry—you will be contacted in due course. Thank you to everyone who has cooperated so willingly and generously throughout this process. I would also like to thank all our parishioners for the many ways in which you help make St Mary's the welcoming family home that it is. Together, let us continue to ensure that our parish is a place where all people feel safe, valued and loved. God Bless, Fr O'Brien

 

 

Congratulations to Fr Robert Livesey

Warm congratulations are extended to Fr Robert Livesey, one of the retired priests of our deanery, who continues to generously assist in the parish of St Anne’s & St Joseph’s, Accrington. Fr Livesey will celebrate the remarkable milestone of 60 years of priesthood this year – a lifetime of faithful service to Christ and His Church in preaching the Gospel, celebrating the Sacraments, and caring for God’s people. To mark this special occasion, a Thanksgiving Mass will be celebrated at St Joseph’s Church, Accrington, on Monday at 7.00pm. All are warmly invited to attend and join in giving thanks for Fr Livesey’s long and devoted ministry. Please keep him in your prayers as he celebrates this joyful anniversary.

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 23rd  May to the Feast of the Visitation (Sunday 31st  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/.