Sunday 19th September 2021

Sunday 19^th September 2021

Twenty Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Dear brothers and sisters,

Bishop John Sherrington, Lead Bishop for Life Issues for the Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales has written an open letter inviting Catholics to pray for the defeat of the Assisted Dying Bill to be debated in the House of Lords in October

Full Letter from Bishop Sherrington on the Assisted Dying Bill

In the next weeks, we face an unprecedented attack on the sanctity of life with Baroness Meacher's 'Assisted Dying Bill 2021' which is due its 2nd Reading in the House of Lords with full debate on Friday, 22 October.

The term 'Assisted Dying' is euphemistic, the truth is that this bill seeks to introduce Assisted Suicide. If legalised, this Bill would allow a terminally ill adult with less than 6 months to live to be assisted in committing suicide. Catholic teaching opposes assisting suicide, since life is a gift to be cared for and preserved until its natural death. The Church is clear that we cannot directly choose to take the life of another, even if they request it. The solidarity of praying and caring for the most vulnerable at this fragile time of their lives is a profoundly Christian act which imitates Our Lady's prayer at the cross and Christ's service to the weakest.

Those in favour of the bill are making good use of language to confuse the issue and call it a compassionate and caring approach to redefine the question and obscure the actual reality and consequences of such legislation. As Pope Francis has said, "Physician-assisted suicide is part of a 'throwaway culture' that offers a 'false compassion' and treats a human person as a problem… True compassion does not marginalise anyone, nor does it humiliate and exclude – much less considers the disappearance of a person as a good thing." He criticised "those who hide behind an alleged compassion to justify and approve the death of a patient."

Dangers of the introduction of Assisted Suicide

Importantly, at this stage we need to argue the dangers of the introduction of Assisted Suicide, which include the safety of people who are vulnerable due to external pressures, and the later liberalisation of the law which is evidenced by other countries which have introduced Assisted Suicide. Many voices from the world of disability-rights and other allies are also very fearful and fighting this bill. Whilst there are clear arguments to support Catholic teachings, it is important to remember that this position is not only a matter of faith but also human reason.

Later this month, the BMA will be debating whether to change their stance to support or neutrality on this matter. I hope that healthcare professionals will enter this debate and highlight the dangers of this Bill to change and skew the meaning of medicine.

Take action

There are three important actions in the next weeks: praying, writing and sharing.

First, I ask you to pray that the Bill will be defeated.

Second, I ask you to write to the Peers from your personal experience and share stories which will argue the reasons for opposing the Bill as well as narrate the importance of precious time during the final stages of life.

The testimony of healthcare and legal professionals will also be important. This needs to be done before the Second Reading on 22 October.

Third, I ask you to engage and share stories and reasons against the Bill on social media.

Be assured of my prayers,

+John

Bishop John Sherrington

Lead Bishop for Life Issues

Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales

Masses & Liturgies for the Coming Week…

Tuesday 21^st September

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

The Holy Hour will be dedicated to praying for the defeat of the Assisted Dying Bill

6pm Mass, Saint Matthew, Apostle & Evangelist (Feast)

St. Matthew was born at Capernaum. He was a tax-gatherer when Jesus CALLED HIM. He wrote his Gospel in Hebrew and tradition has it that he preached the Faith in the East.

Wednesday 22^nd September

10am Mass, Votive Mass of Saint Joseph

'Joseph listened to the angel of the Lord and responded to God's call to care for Jesus and Mary. In this way he played his part in God's plan, and became a blessing not only for the Holy Family, but a blessing for all humanity.' Pope Francis

Thursday 23^rd September

10am Mass, Saint Pius of Pietrelcina (Memoria)

St. Pius of Pietrelcina was born 25^th May 1887. He entered the novitiate of the Capuchin Friars aged 16 and was ordained a priest in 1910. He lived a remarkable devotion to prayer and the sacraments. He committed himself to relieving the pain of many families, chiefly through the foundation of the "House for the Relief of Suffering". He died in 1968.

Friday 24^th September

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

The Holy Hour will be dedicated to praying for the defeat of the Assisted Dying Bill

6pm Mass, Our Lady of Walsingham (Memoria)

The lady of the manor of Walsingham, Richeldis de Faverches, was instructed by a vision of the Virgin Mary to build in her village a replica of the house of Nazareth in which the Annunciation had taken place. The vision occurred, according to tradition, in 1061 A.D.

The original house was destroyed at the Reformation, but during the 19^th and early 20^th centuries pilgrimage to Walsingham was revived.

Saturday 18^th September

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

The Holy Hour will be dedicated to praying for the defeat of the Assisted Dying Bill

10am Votive Mass for Our Lady (Celebrated in the Lady Chapel)

'Love our Lady. And she will obtain abundant grace to help you conquer in your daily struggle.'

St. Josemaria Escriva

6:30pmVigil Mass for The Twenty Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Sunday 19^th September

10am Mass for The Twenty Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Following guidance from the diocese, we are still strongly encouraged to wear face masks in church Thank you for continuing to make St. Mary's a safe and prayerful place for the Glory of God.

Prayers & Blessings

On Friday (17^th Sept) one of our parishioners, Bridget Clarke, was accepted and enrolled as a Benedictine Oblate at Ampleforth Abbey in North Yorkshire. An Oblate is usually a lay person who chooses to live their Christian life in the light of Benedictine spirituality. They use the Rule of St. Benedict to guide their everyday lives at home, at work and within their local community. They daily pray with the Bible to listen to God as well as using the psalms to offer up prayers of praise, adoration and intercession. A Benedictine Oblate is also associated with a particular monastic community who they visit regularly. To be an Oblate is a vocation, a calling, and just as I'm sure Bridget will be praying for us, her parish family at St. Mary's, we also will be praying for her on this new stage of her faith journey.

Congratulations to Mr & Mrs Gilrane!

On Saturday (18^th September) we celebrated, at St. Mary's, the wedding of Mercedes Breslin and Luke Gilrane. May the Lord bless them, may Our Lady and St. Joseph always pray for them, and may the angels watch over them and keep their family safe. Amen.

First Holy Communion

At the Friday evening Mass, Esmee, one of our younger parishioners made he First Holy Communion. Our prayer is that she will always treasure Our Lord's Body and Blood in the Blessed Sacrament throughout her life, realising what a privilege it is. God Bless you Esmee.

Holy Water Container

At the weekend Masses we will bless a new and more substantial Holy Water container for church. As you will see it's a lot more accessible because of it's height and the added feature of a tap. It's also a lot more hygienic because the water is properly contained and covered. Please feel free to take Holy Water back to your homes to bless yourselves and your families. If you bring an empty bottle to one of the stewards they will fill it up for you from the Holy Water container.

'From long experience I have learned that there is nothing like holy water to put devils to flight and prevent them from coming back again. They also flee from the Cross, but return; so holy water must have great virtue. For my own part, whenever I use it, my soul feels a particular and most notable consolation.' - St. Teresa of Avila

A fond farewell and a Welcome

On Friday I was invited to St. Oswald's School to give a blessing for Mrs Debbie Marcroft, the school business manager, who retired after 17 years. We wish Debbie well and send her our prayers for the future. I also got to meet and welcome Mrs Carolyn Mashiter to our parish. Mrs Mashiter is the new acting Headteacher at Sacred Heart School.

Christmas Crib Restoration update

Lewis & Lewis have made contact about the restoration work on our three Shepherds and Ox.

They intend to degrease and prepare all surfaces on the figures; Make good any repairs as necessary including hand & flute repairs; Repaint to a more natural appearance and add protective coatings. The cost will be £1025. Thank you to all those who have so generously contributed towards this project. Next year, hopefully, we can send our three wise men away to be repaired and that would see the completion of our parish Christmas Crib set.

Diocesan Walk for our Climate

On Sunday 10 October there will be a Walk for our Climate from Salford Cathedral to the Laudato Si' Centre. We will start with a prayer then depart from Salford Cathedral at 12.30pm, arriving at the Laudato Si' Centre around 3.30pm for a short service. The walk is approximately 8.6 miles long. En route, we will have the opportunity to take time to reflect on our care for our common home.

The reflections will take place in the churches listed below alongside the route and timings:

Route: https://goo.gl/maps/SSy6VoL4Kf9AvsEE9

Meet at Salford Cathedral piazza 12.15

Depart from Salford Cathedral 12.30

St James Church 13.00

St Peter and St Paul Church 13.45

St Charles Church 15.00

Laudato Si Centre 15.30

All are welcome to join us. You do not need to do the full 8.6 miles, you can meet us at one of the churches and walk part way or just come along for the reflections. For further information please contact laudatosi@dioceseofsalford.org.uk

The Covid Vaccine

"Bishop John is urging all adults, who are able to do so, to be vaccinated. Pope Francis has reminded people of the duty to be vaccinated if they are able. The Church is clear that all Catholics can take any of the vaccines on offer with a clear conscience. Even if you are at a low risk of becoming seriously ill, being vaccinated will lower the risk of transmitting the virus to somebody else who might then have a severe reaction or even die. It is particularly important that those in our parishes, clergy and lay-people who visit those who are housebound or otherwise vulnerable are vaccinated."

Caritas Cornerstone's Big Sleep Out 2021

It's not too late to sign up for Caritas Cornerstone's Big Sleep Out this September. The Big Sleep Out is returning this autumn with a special hybrid event, asking people to raise funds to support rough sleepers by sleeping outdoors overnight at Xaverian College, Manchester, from 7pm on Friday 17 September, or by "boycotting their bed" from their own home.

Due to the pandemic, last year's event was cancelled, and Caritas Cornerstone instead asked people to sleep somewhere other than their own bed. As a result, publicity and fundraising for the event was significantly affected, making this year's event even more needed to help continue its work supporting people who are street homeless, sofa-surfing, or without the security of a permanent home.

How to get involved:

Set up your Just Giving page at https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/BigSleepOut2021 This can be done whether you plan to be present on the night or at home boycotting your bed.

Register for the overnight event at Xaverian College at https://cornerstonecds.org.uk/big-sleepout/ For further information, contact Rachel Taylor on 0161 817 2285, or email fundraising@caritassalford.org.uk.

God Bless and keep praying.

Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle, pray for us.

Saint Joseph, pray for us.

Fr. O'Brien

Sunday 12th September 2021 - Twenty Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

 Sunday 12^th September 2021

Twenty Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Dear brothers and sisters,

 

You will notice that the opportunities for prayer in St. Mary’s is continuing to expand with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament returning this week on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

 

What is Adoration?

Adoration is quite simply adoring and worshipping Jesus in the Holy Eucharist outside of Mass.

The Eucharistic Host is displayed in a monstrance on the altar so that all can see and pray in the presence of Christ. Again we constantly need to remind ourselves that the Host contained in the monstrance is not symbolic but the actual Real Presence of Jesus Christ our Risen Lord. When we come to Adoration we physically find ourselves before Christ Himself. The picture below shows a monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament on an Altar during a period of Adoration.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us that, “Adoration is the first attitude of man acknowledging that he is a creature before his Creator. It exalts the greatness of the Lord who made us and the almighty power of the Saviour who sets us free from evil. Adoration is homage of the spirit to the “King of Glory,” respectful silence in the presence of the “ever greater” God. Adoration of the thrice-holy and sovereign God of love blends with humility and gives assurance to our supplications.” (CCC 2628)

What Do I Do During Eucharistic Adoration?

A practical aspect would be that we should always genuflect when we see the Lord in the Host. Many people genuflect on both knees in devotion and reverence acknowledging that they are in the presence of God Himself. We should always have an attitude of respect, and if others are present, silence. Kneeling, sitting and standing before the Blessed Sacrament are all appropriate forms of prayer. But most importantly we should just ‘Be’. We can just sit there and look at Jesus. Take the time to be with Him. This is personal time with Christ. No need to say or do anything but just ‘Be’. Just ‘Be’ with Him as you would a spouse, friend, somebody you love and care about.

How long is Adoration?

Adoration is timetabled at St. Mary’s for 50 minutes on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. You do not need to be present for the full 50 minutes. It could be that practically you are only able to be at Adoration for 15mins or 30mins. Sometimes, as is often the way, people feel quite content and stay for the full period of Adoration before Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. There is no hard and fast rule. Just by being present before Our Lord allows time for prayer, healing and creates a space where He can talk to us and we can listen.

What do the Saints say about Adoration?

“Whenever I go to the chapel, I put myself in the presence of our good Lord, and I say to him, ‘Lord, I am here.  Tell me what you would have me to do’ . . . And then, I tell God everything that is in my heart.  I tell him about my pains and my joys, and then I listen.  If you listen, God will also speak to you, for with the good Lord, you have to both speak and listen.  God always speaks to you when you approach him plainly and simply.” – St. Catherine Labouré

“The time you spend with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament is the best time that you will spend on earth. Each moment that you spend with Jesus will deepen your union with Him and make your soul everlastingly more glorious and beautiful in heaven, and will help bring about an everlasting peace on earth.” – St. Teresa of Calcutta

Know also that you will probably gain more by praying fifteen minutes before the Blessed Sacrament than by all the other spiritual exercises of the day. True, Our Lord hears our prayers anywhere, for He has made the promise, ‘Ask, and you shall receive,’ but He has revealed to His servants that those who visit Him in the Blessed Sacrament will obtain a more abundant measure of grace.” – St. Alphonsus Liguori.

Brothers and sisters I invite you to come to Adoration. It may be a whole new way of praying for you, it may have been part of your regular prayer practice before Covid, you may be unsure and reluctant about it all, you may be wanting to explore your relationship with Jesus more or simply experience God’s presence in a very real and tangible way. Whatever you are thinking, where ever you are on your spiritual journey come to Adoration. Begin the weekend by spending half an hour or so on a Friday evening or Saturday morning with Him. Take time out on a Tuesday to ask Him for the grace to get through the ups and downs of work and family life. Cry with Him, laugh with Him, share you worries and frustrations with Him, be silent with Him, listen to Him but whatever you do come, come and Be with Him.                     

 Masses & Liturgies for the Coming Week…

Tuesday 14^th September

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

6pm Mass, Feast of The Exaltation of the Holy Cross

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

Wednesday 15^th September

 10am Mass, Our Lady of Sorrows (Memoria)

‘If you want to assist at Mass, with devotion and with fruit,

think of the sorrowful Mother at the feet of Calvary.’ St Padre Pio

Thursday 16^th September

10am Mass, Saint Cornelius, Pope & Saint Cyprian, Bishop, Martyrs (Memoria) 

Ss Cornelius & Cyprian both lived in a time of turbulence in the Church. They were at the forefront of the debate on reconciling those who had denied the faith under persecution. Together they struck a middle course and guided the Church onward by writing and preaching. Cornelius died in exile in 253 A.D; Cyprian was martyred in 258 A.D.    

Friday 17^th September

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

6pm Mass (Feria)

Saturday 18^th September

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

10am Votive Mass for Our Lady (Celebrated in the Lady Chapel)

‘Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word.’ Luke 1:38

6:30pmVigil Mass for The Twenty Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Sunday 19^th September

 10am Mass for The Twenty Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time      

Following guidance from the diocese, we are still strongly encouraged to wear face masks in church and continue with the NHS Test & Trace system. Thank you for continuing to make St. Mary’s a safe and prayerful place for the Glory of God.

Parish Feast – Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle

Thank you to all those who were involved in making last Wednesday such a prayerful and joyful evening. From music to flowers, from praying to processing – Thank You. I’m always moved when we gather round the grotto with torches and sing ‘Ave Ave Ave Maria’. Its during those moments you know that Our Lady is very near and most definitely praying for us all. Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle, pray for us.        

12^th September: Education Sunday. Prayers for schools and places of education

Over the last week or so schools and colleges have restarted after a difficult 18 months. We pray that God will fortify those working to make schools places of learning and sanctuary – not just teachers and leaders but all the support staff whose tireless work sometimes goes unnoticed. We pray for all our primary and secondary pupils – particularly school leavers who have had such a difficult journey in recent times – not to mention students in higher education and vocational training.

The Holy Mass in Spanish

Invitation to Spanish Mass:

Salford Cathedral, 250 Chapel Street, M3 5LE.

Every third Sunday of each month at 2pm

Next mass on Sunday 19th September 2021.

All are welcome to join. Refreshments will be served after Mass for sharing.

Information: salfordcathedralenespanolmisa@gmail.com / Mobile: 07475468128

Invitacion a Misa en Español

Catedral de Salford, 250 Chapel Street, M3 5LE

Todos los terceros Domingos de cada mes a las 2pm.

Próxima misa: Domingo 19 de Septiembre 2021.

Todos están bienvenidos a la Misa, Refrigerio compartir siempre al final de la Misa.

Información: salfordcathedralenespanolmisa@gmail.com / Mobil: 07475468128

Readers and Extra-Ordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

Thank you to all those who have emailed, written and telephoned to continue to volunteer their time and services as Readers and Extra-ordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. You’ll be contacted in the next few weeks by Jonathan Berry and Liz Burton who have kindly offered to facilitate these areas of parish life. I think it’s also important that words of appreciation are said to those who are unable to continue because of changes caused by the pandemic which has affected so many peoples routines, families and personal lives. Thank you for what you have done.

The Covid Vaccine

“Bishop John is urging all adults, who are able to do so, to be vaccinated. Pope Francis has reminded people of the duty to be vaccinated if they are able. The Church is clear that all Catholics can take any of the vaccines on offer with a clear conscience. Even if you are at a low risk of becoming seriously ill, being vaccinated will lower the risk of transmitting the virus to somebody else who might then have a severe reaction or even die. It is particularly important that those in our parishes, clergy and lay-people who visit those who are housebound or otherwise vulnerable are vaccinated.”

Diocese of Salford Vacancies

Chancery & Tribunal Administrator (replacement role):

Appointment type: Permanent, full-time (35 hours per week. 30 hours per week will also be considered).

Location: Cathedral Centre, 3 Ford Street, Salford, M3 6DP

Salary: £22,000 - £24,0000 per annum.

Chancery & Tribunal Assistant (replacement role):

Appointment type: Permanent, full or part-time. We can be flexible in how we fill this role and are open to applicants interested in applying for a full-time (35 hours per week) role, or part-time position (please visit the website for further details).

Location: Cathedral Centre, 3 Ford Street, Salford, M3 6DP

Salary: £20,000 - £22,0000 per annum.

For further information and to apply, please visit www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/news/vacancies/

Reopening of Salford Cathedral Centre Facilities

We are delighted to announce that Cathedral Centre Books has now reopened. The shop is open 8.30am - 3.30pm Monday to Friday. Orders can be also placed via the shop website or over the phone on 0161 817 2208. The Cathedral Centre Café has also reopened and is open to the public 8.30am - 1.30pm Monday to Friday.                  

God Bless and keep praying.

Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle, pray for us.

Saint Joseph, pray for us.

 

Fr. O’Brien

 

Sunday 5th October 2021 - Twenty Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

 Sunday 5^th September 2021

Twenty Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Dear brothers and sisters,

            Before we reflect on the fifth and final Luminous Mystery of the Rosary this week, I would like to remind people about our parish feast on Wednesday.  It will be a special day for prayer and thanksgiving to God. Thanks for our faith that continues to bring us before the Tabernacle, before His Real Presence. Thanks for the blessings we have surprisingly found during these difficult times. Thanks for the graces that He has given to us to be able to face the challenges the pandemic has brought. Thanks for all the parishioners who have kept the doors of St. Mary’s open during the last 18months. Thanks for those people whose work has been seen and those who have been busy under the radar. 

A grateful member of our parish family sent the following words in a card for all those who have given their time and skills, in all shapes and forms:

‘To all the good people who made it possible for the church to stay open for Holy Mass;

The work you do is very much appreciated. Thank you.’

I’m sure countless people have thought the same. Therefore on Wednesday I invite everyone to come to St. Mary’s and put those thoughts into action, the action of prayer. Prayer of Thanksgiving.

At 6:30pm there will be the Rosary led by myself with a mini reflection for each of the five Glorious Mysteries. The intention will be for the future of our parish. That Catholics, young and old, will come back to the Mass and the Sacraments. That they too will feel the joy and peace which only Jesus can give and that lasts beyond this life.

At 7pm there will be the celebration of Holy Mass in honour of Our Lady’s Birthday. The intention at the Sacrifice will be Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving for all those who have given themselves to St. Mary’s in all manner of ways over the last 18months.

At 7:30pm there will be a procession to the grotto behind church. Here flowers will be laid before the statue of Our Lady to thank her for being our Mother and looking after our parish family during these uncertain times.

Everyone is invited, everyone is welcome. If you can only spare time for one of the above prayers then that’s fine. If you can come to all three then that’s great. By coming together on days like this we both encourage and support one other as brothers and sisters in the faith. We are a family.

Let’s continue our Rosary reflection with the final Luminous Mystery – The Institution of the Eucharist.

‘Now as they were eating, Jesus took some bread, and when he had said the blessing he broke it and gave it to his disciples. “Take it and eat;” he said “this is my body.” Then he took a cup, and when he had returned thanks gave it to them. “Drink all of you from this,” he said “for this is my blood, the blood of the covenant, which is to be poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”’ (Matthew 26:26-28)

 

Cardinal Vincent Nichols wrote these words to help draw people into Jesus’ very real love in the Eucharist. 

So why does God give us the Eucharist as a sacrifice as well as a sacrament? One way of answering this question is to recall that God ultimately wants us to bring us to heaven, where, as St John tells us, “We shall be like Him.” Now the attribute that we most naturally associate with God is power, but the attribute that is most central to God's knowledge of Himself is love. “God is love,” as St John tells us. So becoming 'like God' does not simply mean sharing in the power of God, but most essentially sharing in the love of God, of loving as God loves. Now love is intimately connected with sacrifice, the notion of a sacrifice being associated with an outpouring of something that is precious to oneself for the sake of another person. So in the Mass, God gives us not only the opportunity to participate in the strength of God by means of a sacrament, but also in the love of God by means of a sacrifice. More specifically, in the Mass we participate in the perfect sacrifice, that of Christ on the cross in which the Son of God gave His life to save us."

In this luminous mystery of The Institution of the Eucharist let’s ask God to help us never take this Sacrament for granted. Let’s pray that we may always see the person of Jesus in the Host rather than an object. An object we take habitually because its part of our routine. Let’s pray that the Holy Spirit will continue to mould our hearts so that we may see Love Himself in the Blessed Sacrament and be transformed into His vessels of mercy for the world around us.  

Masses & Liturgies for the Coming Week…

Wednesday 8^th September

 St. Mary’s Parish Feast Day

6:30pm The Holy Rosary

 7pm Mass. The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

7:30pm Procession to the Grotto in Thanksgiving      

"If you ever feel distressed during your day, call upon our Lady, just say this simple prayer:

'Mary, Mother of Jesus, please be a mother to me now.'

I must admit, this prayer has never failed me." - Blessed Mother Teresa

Thursday 9^th September

10am Votive Mass of the Holy Eucharist

"What wonderful majesty! What stupendous condescension! O sublime humility! That the Lord of the whole universe, God and the Son of God, should humble Himself like this under the form of a little bread, for our salvation" St. Francis of Assisi

Friday 10^th September

6pm Mass. Saint Ambrose Barlow, Priest & Martyr (Feast) 

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

Saturday 11^th September

9am – 9:45am Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament

10am Votive Mass for Our Lady (Celebrated in the Lady Chapel)

“Never be afraid of loving the Blessed Virgin too much.

 You can never love her more than Jesus did.” St. Maximilian Kolbe

6:30pmVigil Mass for The Twenty Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Sunday 12^th September

 10am Mass for The Twenty Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time      

Following guidance from the diocese, we are still strongly encouraged to wear face masks in church and continue with the NHS Test & Trace system. Thank you for continuing to make St. Mary’s a safe and prayerful place for the Glory of God

Parish Feast – Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle

On Wednesday 8^th September the Universal Church celebrates The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Our Lady’s Birthday). For us as St. Mary’s this Feast day marks when our parish church was consecrated formally in 1948. The memorial stone that records this event is at the side of church (Hawthorn Ave by the small side gate). It was also on this day, through parishioners generous contributions, we restored the statue of Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle and blessed her in 2018. This year on the 8^th September there will be Mass at 7pm. The Mass intention will be for all those parishioners who have worked to keep our church open during the Covid pandemic. It will be a Mass giving thanks to God for our parish family and the work people do, big or small, public or behind the scenes. Everyone is invited and everyone is welcome. Let’s raise the roof in praise and thanks to God.

Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle, Pray for us.                        

The Holy Mass in Spanish

Invitation to Spanish Mass:

Salford Cathedral, 250 Chapel Street, M3 5LE.

Every third Sunday of each month at 2pm

Next mass on Sunday 19th September 2021.

All are welcome to join. Refreshments will be served after Mass for sharing.

Information: salfordcathedralenespanolmisa@gmail.com / Mobile: 07475468128

Invitacion a Misa en Español

Catedral de Salford, 250 Chapel Street, M3 5LE

Todos los terceros Domingos de cada mes a las 2pm.

Próxima misa: Domingo 19 de Septiembre 2021.

Todos están bienvenidos a la Misa, Refrigerio compartir siempre al final de la Misa.

Información: salfordcathedralenespanolmisa@gmail.com / Mobil: 07475468128

Readers and Extra-Ordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

Thank you to all those who have emailed, written and telephoned to continue to volunteer their time and services as Readers and Extra-ordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. You’ll be contacted in the next few weeks by Jonathan Berry and Liz Burton who have kindly offered to facilitate these areas of parish life. I think it’s also important that words of appreciation are said to those who are unable to continue because of changes caused by the pandemic which has affected so many peoples routines, families and personal lives. Thank you for what you have done.

The Covid Vaccine

“Bishop John is urging all adults, who are able to do so, to be vaccinated. Pope Francis has reminded people of the duty to be vaccinated if they are able. The Church is clear that all Catholics can take any of the vaccines on offer with a clear conscience. Even if you are at a low risk of becoming seriously ill, being vaccinated will lower the risk of transmitting the virus to somebody else who might then have a severe reaction or even die. It is particularly important that those in our parishes, clergy and lay-people who visit those who are housebound or otherwise vulnerable are vaccinated.”

Reopening of Salford Cathedral Centre Facilities

We are delighted to announce that Cathedral Centre Books has now reopened. The shop is open 8.30am - 3.30pm Monday to Friday. Orders can be also placed via the shop website or over the phone on 0161 817 2208. The Cathedral Centre Café has also reopened and is open to the public 8.30am - 1.30pm Monday to Friday.                  

God Bless and keep praying.

Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle, pray for us.

Saint Joseph, pray for us.

 

Fr. O’Brien

Sunday 29th August 2021 - Twenty Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

  

Sunday 29^th August 2021

Twenty Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Dear brothers and sisters,

            This week we reflect with on the Fourth Luminous Mystery – The Transfiguration.

 

‘He [Jesus] took with him Peter and John and James and went up the mountain to pray. As he prayed, the aspect of his face was changed and his clothing became brilliant as lighting. Suddenly there were two men there talking to him; they were Moses and Elijah appearing in glory, and they were speaking of his passing which he was to accomplish in Jerusalem.’

(Luke 9: 28-31)

 

The following meditation was written by Sherry Antonetti, a freelance Catholic writer and published author. She was asking her son, John, what mystery he found the most challenging to mediate on when praying the rosary...      

 

‘Which one do you find most puzzling?” I asked my son as we drove to his Confirmation retreat.

John thought for a minute. “The Transfiguration. It’s one that doesn’t make much sense to me.”

“Okay.” I said, and wished him well on his retreat. Internally I fretted. That mystery remained mysterious to me too. We understand something of the Crowning of Mary as Queen of Heaven because we’ve known people we wished to honour before all others. I could get the descent of the Holy Spirit because all Confirmed Catholics experience this gift, both in Baptism and all the more in Confirmation. And who doesn’t see themselves in the sorrowful mysteries in the course of life? But the Transfiguration?

 

As I drove home, my thoughts ran in a muddled fashion. Peter, James and John go up the mountain with Jesus. They pray and fall asleep. Jesus’s face becomes dazzlingly white and they see Him talking with Moses and Elijah. Peter loses his head for a moment and says something very Peter, “Let’s build three booths” because he wants to capture the experience permanently and stay always on the mountain. I know Moses represents the Law, and Elijah the prophets. How does that relate to a 13-year old boy preparing for Confirmation? How does it relate to me? How does it relate to anyone?

 

I opened the Bible and read Matthew’s Version in Chapter 17 and it referenced John the Baptist being Elijah for Jesus. My own son John received his name in Advent of 2003 when I felt struck by the Gospel and the words, “His name is John.” I decided I needed to brush up on Elijah too. The prophets, of the Old Testament and the New, were voices crying out in the wilderness, proclaiming to the people, reminding them that while God is patient, He does judge, He will bring justice, and we’re culpable for all the damage we do in our lives to others, and for our own stubbornness to God’s law and God’s love.

 

The Luminous mysteries declare to us over and over again, “Listen.” In the Baptism at the River Jordan, God speaks from the Heavens, “This is my beloved son in whom I am well pleased. Listen to him.” At the Wedding Feast in Cana, Mary tells the servants, “Do whatever He tells you.” Jesus gives us the Proclamation of the Kingdom, Jesus’s words to our hearts in the Beatitudes, in all He reveals at the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus tell us when He institutes the Eucharist, “This is my body. Do this in memory of me.” Having read the other two versions of the Transfiguration in Luke 9:28-36 and Mark 9:2-13, a bright cloud descends and from that cloud comes God the Father’s voice, God’s declaration. “This is my beloved son whom I love. Listen to Him.”

 

In that moment, it felt rather hard to miss the point. How could it be, I’d somehow heard this Gospel year after year and missed God’s still quiet voice when here He’s practically shouting to the world? Answer? Even the apostles struggled to stay awake at times, and often in our lives, via neglect, via sin, via not wanting to think about things, it’s easy to find one’s self sleeping through the reality of being in the presence of God. The Transfiguration is a reminder of what is to come, and a “WAKE UP!” call to our souls about what needs to be ongoing.

 

Are we on the mountain? Are we taking ourselves to prayer, talking with Jesus, being with Jesus, consistently seeking to stay in His presence? Are we seeking to get ever closer to God? Are we awake? Are we interested in the spiritual high of prayer, or in an actual relationship with Christ and what that entails? “Good questions for a candidate for Confirmation,” I thought, not to mention myself. We’re not supposed to get everything about any of the mysteries. We’re supposed to get that there is always more within each of these encounters with Christ, and that God being the infinite Lover, always has more to share with us if only we will stay awake and listen.”

 

I can’t wait to share this with John.

 

Masses & Liturgies for the Coming Week…

 Wednesday 1^st September

 10am Mass. Saint Edmund Arrowsmith, Priest & Martyr (Feast)   

St. Edmund Arrowsmith was born in 1585 at Haydock, Merseyside. He was ordained at the seminary in Douai, France and returned to England to begin his priestly ministry despite the persecution of the time towards all Catholics. He worked in Lancashire, including Salmesbury and Walton-le-Dale. He was known for his zealous faith. In 1628 he was arrested, imprisoned at Lancaster and there finally martyred.             

 Thursday 2^nd September

10am Mass (Feria)

 Friday 3^rd September

6pm Mass. Saint Gregory the Great, Pope & Doctor (Feast) 

St. Gregory was born in Rome in 540A.D. He became a civil servant and Prefect of the City. Gregory entered the Abbey of St. Andrew and was ordained a deacon in 578A.D. He later was elected Pope in 590A.D and showed great pastoral care in his preaching, writing, care for the poor and tirelessly working for the welfare of Rome.

He is known as the “Apostle of England” because he sent St. Augustine (of Canterbury) to minister there after encountering English slaves in the Forum. 

 The evening Mass will also be the First Friday Mass of the month for those praying the devotion to the Sacred Heart. 

Saturday 4^th September

9am – 10am Confessions & The Holy Rosary

6:30pmVigil Mass for The Twenty Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

 Sunday 5^th August

 10am Mass for The Twenty Third Sunday in Ordinary Time      

 Following guidance from the diocese, we are still strongly encouraged to wear face masks in church and continue with the NHS Test & Trace system. Thank you for continuing to make St. Mary’s a safe and prayerful place for the Glory of God.

The Sacrament of Confession & The Holy Rosary

On Saturday 4^th September the Sacrament of Confession will be available from 9am – 10am. Those who haven taken the opportunity to come to Confession during the last year will testify to the safe and prayerful way in which it is celebrated.  The Rosary will be publicly prayed in church, by kind volunteers, during Confessions. The intention for each rosary will be that all faithful disciples of the Lord will return to Him in this most merciful Sacrament that He instituted. The invitation is there, the welcome is warm and His forgiveness is REAL! Will you come?

Future Masses & Liturgies

Thanks to many good parishioners who are offering up their time and gifts we are able to have more opportunity for prayer at St. Mary’s. Come the autumn there will be a Holy Hour (Exposition) before the Blessed Sacrament on Tuesday’s and Friday’s (5pm – 6pm) and Saturday’s (9am -10am). There will also be two extra Masses on Tuesday evenings at 6pm and Saturday mornings at 10am. Again all this is possible because of volunteer parishioners. If you would like to help then please contact Jennifer Pickles at  jennifer.pickles@virginmedia.com

Parish Feast – Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle

On Wednesday 8^th September the Universal Church celebrates The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Our Lady’s Birthday). For us as St. Mary’s this Feast day marks when our parish church was consecrated formally in 1948. The memorial stone that records this event is at the side of church (Hawthorn Ave by the small side gate). It was also on this day, through parishioners generous contributions, we restored the statue of Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle and blessed her in 2018. This year on the 8^th September there will be Mass at 7pm. The Mass intention will be for all those parishioners who have worked to keep our church open during the Covid pandemic. It will be a Mass giving thanks to God for our parish family and the work people do, big or small, public or behind the scenes. Everyone is invited and everyone is welcome. Let’s raise the roof in praise and thanks to God.

Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle, Pray for us.                        

Farewell

This weekend we say goodbye to Fr. Stamp. He will be celebrating his final Mass as parish priest of Accrington at St. Anne’s Church this Sunday at 11am (29^th Aug). Immediately after our parish 10am Mass I will be driving straight there. Let’s pray for Father as he takes up his new appointment as parish priest of Our Lady & St. John’s, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester. On a personal note I have been very grateful for Father’s help, support and friendship especially in the transition from monk to parish priest. Any move is stressful, as I’m sure many of you can testify to, so let’s keep Fr. Stamp and his new parish in our prayers.

 Fr. Francis Wadsworth, the new parish priest of St. Anne’s and St. Joseph’s, will be arriving in Accrington next week and we keep him also in our prayers.

  The Holy Mass in Spanish

Invitation to Spanish Mass:

Salford Cathedral, 250 Chapel Street, M3 5LE.

Every third Sunday of each month at 2pm

Next mass on Sunday 19th September 2021.

All are welcome to join. Refreshments will be served after Mass for sharing.

Information: salfordcathedralenespanolmisa@gmail.com / Mobile: 07475468128

 

Invitacion a Misa en Español

Catedral de Salford, 250 Chapel Street, M3 5LE

Todos los terceros Domingos de cada mes a las 2pm.

Próxima misa: Domingo 19 de Septiembre 2021.

Todos están bienvenidos a la Misa, Refrigerio compartir siempre al final de la Misa.

Información: salfordcathedralenespanolmisa@gmail.com / Mobil: 07475468128

  ABC (About Becoming Catholic)

During the last year of lockdowns, social distancing, furloughs and daily life being interrupted many people have found themselves with time to think. To think about the direction of their own lives, to think about the fragility of this world, to think about what happens after death and even daring to contemplate the person of Jesus Christ! If you or somebody you know is contemplating such things then tell them to email me at sean.obrien@dioceseofsalford.org.uk or call the presbytery 01254 232 433 (leaving a voicemail if I don’t answer straight away). We are made for the Lord and we will only find real happiness, true purpose and total completeness in adoring and loving Him.

‘You have made us for Yourself, O Lord,

and our hearts are restless until they rest in You.’

(St. Augustine of Hippo)        

Welcome Home: Inviting People Back to the Post-Pandemic Church

Tuesday 7 September, 7pm. Join Alpha UK and Divine Renovation UK as they discuss how to draw people back to Jesus and the Church in the post-pandemic world. As we as a Church begin to survey the new terrain, we will face new opportunities to reach those around us. We will be in conversation with Bishop David Oakley, Bishop of Northampton, Fr Philip Cunnah, parish priest from St Paulinus in Yorkshire, and Eleanor Oliver, mother and founder of Colour and Shape.

For more information visit: www.tfaforms.com/4917263

The Covid Vaccine

“Bishop John is urging all adults, who are able to do so, to be vaccinated. Pope Francis has reminded people of the duty to be vaccinated if they are able. The Church is clear that all Catholics can take any of the vaccines on offer with a clear conscience. Even if you are at a low risk of becoming seriously ill, being vaccinated will lower the risk of transmitting the virus to somebody else who might then have a severe reaction or even die. It is particularly important that those in our parishes, clergy and lay-people who visit those who are housebound or otherwise vulnerable are vaccinated.”

 Parish Readers

As restrictions are now being eased and parishes around the diocese are adapting to new circumstances I would like to invite both existing readers and potential new readers to contact me. The Word of God is so vital and life giving! It’s through the Scriptures that we encounter the Lord and He is able to speak, guide, direct, challenge, affirm and heal us. Readers are so important because through their clarity and voices they transmit the message that God wants us to hear at the Liturgy.

 Covid has disturbed many peoples routines and personal circumstances which has meant that one or two existing readers have said they can no longer continue. That is perfectly understandable and I think it is so important nobody feels pressure to continue. The world has changed. If parishioners would like to volunteer to be readers or any existing readers would like to continue then please email me at sean.obrien@dioceseofsalford.org.uk and we can talk about the practicalities.                     

 Extra-ordinary ministers of Holy Communion

We have been blessed over the years with dedicated parishioners who have been chosen by the various parish priests of St. Mary’s to be Extra-ordinary ministers of Holy Communion. Their chief and first role is to support the parish priest by visiting the sick who genuinely cannot attend the Holy Mass and bring the Blessed Sacrament to them. That time of praying together in the Real Presence of Jesus in Holy Communion brings such healing and consolation to those who are suffering and housebound.

 I am aware that many of our existing Extra-ordinary ministers of Holy Communion have found that personal circumstances and routines have changed since the start of the Covid Pandemic last year. Therefore, without anybody feeling pressure, if those existing parish Extra-ordinary ministers of Holy Communion would like to continue then please do contact me and we can work out safely and correctly the sick visits that need to be undertaken. Email sean.obrien@dioceseofsalford.org.uk 

Similarly, if people would like to stand down I fully understand and appreciate that things have changed in parish life and nobody should feel under any pressure to continue. Thank you for what you have done for our sick and housebound in the past and may God Bless you.  

 I’ll personally meet with those who wish to continue and go through the new format of safely distributing the Blessed Sacrament to those who are sick. At present there is no need for Extra-ordinary ministers of Holy Communion to assist me at the Mass.

Reopening of Salford Cathedral Centre Facilities

We are delighted to announce that Cathedral Centre Books has now reopened. The shop is open 8.30am - 3.30pm Monday to Friday. Orders can be also placed via the shop website or over the phone on 0161 817 2208. The Cathedral Centre Café has also reopened and is open to the public 8.30am - 1.30pm Monday to Friday.                  

God Bless and keep praying.

Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle, pray for us.

Saint Joseph, pray for us.

 

Fr. O’Brien