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Thursday, 10 July 2025

15th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Sunday 13th July 2025

 
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Saint Mary's Roman Catholic Church
Catlow Hall Street, Oswaldtwistle
Lancashire
BB5 3EZ
 
Parish Priest: Rev. Fr. S D O'Brien
Parish Administrator: Ciara Kelly
Tel: 01254-232433
Sunday 13th July 2025
15th Sunday in Ordinary Time
 
 
Masses & Liturgies for the following weeks ...
 
Friday 11th July
5pm – 5:45pm Adoration of Blessed Sacrament
6pm Mass, Saint Benedict, Abbot, Patron of Europe (Feast)
St. Benedict: The "Father of Western Monasticism". Born at Norcia in 480A.D, he gathered followers at Subiaco before moving south to Monte Cassino in 529A.D. Here he founded his most famous monastery, and composed his Rule, still the indispensable guide of the Benedictine Order. He died in 547 A.D.
 
Saturday 12th July
9am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions
10am Votive Mass of Our Lady 
"Let us live as the Blessed Virgin lived: loving God only, desiring God only, trying to please God only in all that we do." - St John Vianney
6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World
6:30pm Vigil Mass for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time
 
Sunday 13th July
9:30am The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World
10am Mass for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time
 
Tuesday 15th July
10am St Mary's School Leavers Mass
5pm – 5:45pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
5:45pm Mass, Saint Bonaventure, Bishop & Doctor (Memoria)
St. Bonaventure was born in Italy in 1218 A.D, became a Franciscan and eventually Minister General of the Order and Cardinal Bishop of Albano near Rome. He is remembered for his spiritual teaching. He died in 1274A.D.
 
 
Wednesday 16th July
9:15am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
10am Mass Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Patronal Feast of the Diocese of Salford (Solemnity)
While Our Lady of Mount Carmel is the patron saint of the Carmelite Order, the basis for the universal Church honouring Mary under this title dates to her appearance to an English Carmelite St. Simon Stock in the 13th century. She gave him the Brown Scapular, a garment worn by religious over the neck and shoulders as an apron, to be worn by Carmelites "as a sign of her protection." It is a Marian devotional practice which, over the centuries, has spread to Catholics around the world.
 
 
Thursday 17th July
9:15am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
10am Weekday Mass (Feria)
2:15pm St Oswald's School Leavers Liturgy
 
Friday 18th July
9am Sacred Heart School Leavers Liturgy
3pm Funeral Service for John Harris RIP at Accrington Crematorium
5pm – 5:45pm Adoration of Blessed Sacrament
6pm Weekday Mass (Feria)
 
Saturday 19th July
9am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions
10am Votive Mass of Our Lady 
"Let us live as the Blessed Virgin lived: loving God only, desiring God only, trying to please God only in all that we do." - St John Vianney
6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World
6:30pm Vigil Mass for the 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time
 
Sunday 20th July
9:30am The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World
10am Mass for the 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time
 
Sanctuary Lamp
This week (12th July- 18th July), the Sanctuary Lamp is for Peter Pickles and Cathleen Haworth.
 
 
Last Week's Offertory Collection
£477.56. Thank you for your kind generosity.
 
 
A BIG MASSIVE THANK YOU!!!
To all and everyone who contributed to Fr. Adam's first Mass here at St. Mary's, last Monday evening, who made it so prayerful, moving and joyous – THANK YOU! After a weekend of celebrations, it was fitting that we the parish family came together in thanks for a new priest whose formation we have been blessed by God to be part of. From the dedicated Altar Servers, the musicians and singers, to the stewards and cleaners, from the tea and coffee brewers to the Jacob Join donators and setting up team, no forgetting the readers and visiting priests, and all those who, and still do, continue to pray for Fr. Adam – THANK YOU. I was a very proud and blessed parish priest on Monday. God Bless Fr. O'Brien.        
 
Appointment of Fr. Adam Bamber
On Sunday it was formally announced that Fr. Adam's first appointment as a priest will be as a curate to Shrewsbury Cathedral. We wish Fr. Adam well and assure of him of our prayers as begins this new stage of his journey as a priest with the cathedral Dean Fr. Sean Henry and his team.
 
Confirmation Congratulations
On Thursday 3rd July some of our younger parishioners, Lena P, Lena K, Ryan and Martin all received the Sacrament of Confirmation from Bishop John Arnold at St. Joseph's, Accrington. Their commitment to attending regular catechism classes and being part of the weekly Sunday Mass has been edifying for us their parish family, here at St. Mary's. Thank you to Aimee Martin, the parish catechist, who over the last 7 months has accompanied them on this journey and has given so much time, prayer and wisdom to forming these newly equipped disciples.
 
Gift Aid Envelopes
Parishioners who are using last years blue envelopes for Gift Aid are kindly asked to contact Ciara at stmarysoswaldtwistle@dioceseofsalford.org.uk. This will help us ensure our records are up to date and your contributions are correctly accounted for. Thank you for your continued support.
 
Prayer Intentions at Lourdes
Parishioners Eric and Berni will be making a pilgrimage to Lourdes. If you would like them to light a candle for your prayer intention at the Grotto, please place your intention and donation in an envelope and hand it to one of the stewards. If you would like a video of the candle being lit, kindly include your telephone number along with your intention in the envelope. Let us unite in prayer as they journey to this holy place.
 
Family And Group Stays At Castlerigg Manor This August
Castlerigg Manor is a Retreat Centre in the Lake District, owned by the Diocese of Lancaster, and this summer they are opening their doors to family groups, individuals and other small groups. A good option for anyone looking for a budget get-away in a beautiful part of the country. Book at https://castleriggmanor.com/open/ or contact director@castleriggmanor.co.uk
    
Certificate in Catholic Pastoral Leadership
Are you involved in any form of ministry in the Church? Are you interested in doing more or would like to expand your skills in pastoral leadership? Liverpool Hope University has partnered with several Catholic dioceses, including the Diocese of Salford, to help people gain fresh perspectives on Scripture and Church teaching. You can follow the two-year course online and also opt to take this course as a postgraduate certificate. To find out more, please email m.mui@rcaol.org.uk.
 
Summer Retreats at Boarbank Hall 
The Canonesses of St Augustine, based at Boarbank Hall near Grange-over-Sands, has shared details of two retreats this summer. Join them from 26 July - 2 August for a retreat exploring more about the spirituality of our new Augustinian pope, Leo XIV, or perhaps join them between 18-22 August for an opportunity to read and reflect on the spiritual writings of St Augustine. To find out more about these retreats and other opportunities at Boarbank Hall, please visit http://www.boarbankhall.org.uk 
 
 
Pilgrimage to Walsingham in Prayer for the Sanctity of Life 
Catholics around the country will be heading to Walsingham this August to pray and reflect on the sanctity of life. Bishop John Keenan, Bishop of Paisley, will lead the pilgrimage on Saturday 2nd August, which begins with 12 noon Mass in the Chapel of Reconciliation. For more information please visit https://prolifepilgrimage.org/ 
 
 
Family Forest Fun Mornings
Gather the family together to celebrate God's creation with Family Forest Fun Mornings at the Diocese of Salford's Laudato Si' Centre. Taking place between 10am-12.30pm over the first three Tuesdays of August, these sessions are packed with a range of activities that teach us more about the wonder of creation. Find out more and register at https://laudatosicentre.org.uk/events/family-forest-fun-mornings/
 
Silent Retreat 
Join the Diocese of Salford's Laudato Si' Centre between 9.30am - 3.30pm on Friday 1 August for a prayerful silent retreat. Begin the day with a tour of Wardley Hall and the Laudato Si' Centre before spending time in silent prayer, reflection, and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. The day ends with Outdoor Mass and a final opportunity for reflection. Email laudatosi@dioceseofsalford.org.uk to find out more and register. 
 
WeBelieve – Festival of Catholic Life
Celebrate the Jubilee at WeBelieve, a festival of Catholic Life gathering the Church to share the hope that we have in Christ. From 25th-28th July, join us for four days of music, keynotes, conversation & worship at St Mary's College, Oscott, Birmingham. Featuring Dr Gianna Emanuela Molla (daughter of St Gianna Molla), Fr Paul Murray, Msgr Michael Nazir-Ali, AnMari, The Southwell Consort, Fr Toby Lees & many more. Early Bird Tickets available now at www.webelievefestival.com
 
 
Salford Lourdes Pre-Departure Mass
The Diocese of Salford Lourdes Pilgrimage Team invites you to join them for this year's Pre-Departure Mass.  Mass will be celebrated by Bishop John, along with clergy from the diocese, with music for our wonderful Lourdes choir. Whether you're travelling with us to Lourdes or are looking to accompany us in prayer at home, you're most welcome to join us at 5.30pm on Sunday 27 July at St Patrick's, Collyhurst.
 
Hope for our Common Home Pilgrimage
The Diocese of Salford's Laudato Si' Centre is teaming up with the Columban Missionaries in Britain for a special pilgrimage opportunity to celebrate the Season of Creation in this Holy Year of Jubilee. Taking place on Thursday 25 September, this prayerful experience offers opportunities for everyone, whether taking on our nine-mile pilgrimage walk, joining us for our liturgies throughout the day, or receiving our virtual pilgrimage pack to explore in your own time. To find out more and to register, please visit https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/hope-for-our-common-home/
 
Jubilee for Grandparents and Older People
The Diocese of Salford's Jubilee of Jubilees series continues this month as we celebrate the Jubilee for Grandparents and Older People by sharing a fantastic resource from our diocesan charity, Caritas Salford. For resources, activity ideas, prayers, key contacts, and more, head to https://dioceseofsalford.org.uk/news/jubilee-2025/calendar/
 


Thursday, 3 July 2025

14th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Sunday 6th July 2025

 
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Saint Mary's Roman Catholic Church
Catlow Hall Street, Oswaldtwistle
Lancashire
BB5 3EZ
 
Parish Priest: Rev. Fr. S D O'Brien
Tel: 01254-232433
Sunday 6th July 2025
14th Sunday in Ordinary Time
 
 
Masses & Liturgies for the following weeks ...
 
 
Saturday 5th July
6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World
6:30pm Vigil Mass for 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time 
 
Sunday 6th July
9:30am The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World
10am Mass for 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time
 
Monday 7th July
7pm Fr Adam Bambers First Mass
Followed by refreshments - All are invited and welcome.
 
Tuesday 8th July
5pm – 5:45pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
5:45pm Weekday Mass (Feria)
 
Wednesday 9th July
9:15am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
10am Weekday Mass (Feria)
7pm Parish Bible Study
 
Thursday 10th July
9:15am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
10am Weekday Mass (Feria)
 
Friday 11th July
5pm – 5:45pm Adoration of Blessed Sacrament
6pm Mass, Saint Benedict, Abbot, Patron of Europe (Feast)
St. Benedict: The "Father of Western Monasticism". Born at Norcia in 480A.D, he gathered followers at Subiaco before moving south to Monte Cassino in 529A.D. Here he founded his most famous monastery, and composed his Rule, still the indispensable guide of the Benedictine Order. He died in 547 A.D.
 
Saturday 12th July
9am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions
10am Votive Mass of Our Lady 
"Let us live as the Blessed Virgin lived: loving God only, desiring God only, trying to please God only in all that we do." - St John Vianney
6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World
6:30pm Vigil Mass for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time 
 
Sunday 13th July
9:30am The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World
10am Mass for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time 
 
 
Fr. Adam's First Mass at St Mary's.
Everyone is welcome to come on Monday 7th July as our brand new priest - Fr. Adam Bamber - will celebrate his first Mass at St. Mary's. This is truly a blessing for us as a parish. Over the last 7 years we have accompanied, supported and prayed for Adam on the journey towards priesthood. It is fitting then and a grace filled moment that we are able to be present when he offers up the sacrifice of the Mass for us. Mass will begin at 7pm followed by refreshments - All are invited and welcome.
 
 
Sanctuary Lamp
This week (5th July- 11th July), the Sanctuary Lamp is for Adam's Ordination.
 
 
Our Lady's Lamp
This week (5th July- 11th July), Our Lady's Lamp is for Adam's Ordination.
 
 
 
Last Week's Offertory Collection
£585.12. Thank you for your kind generosity.
 
 
Deacon Adam's Ordination to the Priesthood
For those parishioners travelling to Adam's ordination at Shrewsbury Cathedral on Saturday 5th July, please ensure you arrive to Church no later than 8:15am to allow time for seating and preparations for departure by 8:30am. If you have any questions or require assistance on the day, please contact parish secretary Ciara on 07719063876 or via email at Ciara.kelly@dioceseofsalford.org.uk. We look forward to sharing this special occasion with you.
 
 
Parish Bible Study – The Book of Revelation
The next session is Wednesday 9th July from 7pm – 8pm. All are welcome. All you need is a Bible and an openness to come to know Our Lord better. Come and join us.
 
 
Prayer Cards
Last Friday, the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart, all three parish primary schools - Sacred Heart, St. Mary's, St Oswald's - came to the parish Mass to celebrate this wonderful feast. Fr. O'Brien reminded the children that the love which radiates from Jesus' heart is for us all, and this is the good news that the world needs to hear. The children produced prayer cards which are available at the back of church for everyone to take home.        
 
Congratulations -First Holy Communion
Congratulations to Oliver who have received Our Lord in Holy Communion for the first time last weekend. As always, it's been a joy, as his parish priest, to accompany him and the family on this part of Oliver's faith journey.  Let's pray for all our young people that they will always appreciate the Sacraments of Confession and the Holy Eucharist which lead them uniquely and personally to Jesus Christ, Our Lord, who is the Way, the Truth and the Life. For more information regarding catechism and preparation for the sacraments please contact Father O'Brien at the end of a weekend Mass. stmarysoswaldtwistle@dioceseofsalford.org.uk   
 
 
 
Summer Retreats at Boarbank Hall 
The Canonesses of St Augustine, based at Boarbank Hall near Grange-over-Sands, has shared details of two retreats this summer. Join them from 26 July - 2 August for a retreat exploring more about the spirituality of our new Augustinian pope, Leo XIV, or perhaps join them between 18-22 August for an opportunity to read and reflect on the spiritual writings of St Augustine. To find out more about these retreats and other opportunities at Boarbank Hall, please visit http://www.boarbankhall.org.uk 
 
 
Pilgrimage to Walsingham in Prayer for the Sanctity of Life 
Catholics around the country will be heading to Walsingham this August to pray and reflect on the sanctity of life. Bishop John Keenan, Bishop of Paisley, will lead the pilgrimage on Saturday 2nd August, which begins with 12 noon Mass in the Chapel of Reconciliation. For more information please visit https://prolifepilgrimage.org/ 
 
 
Fancy a Walk? 
Our diocesan charity Caritas Diocese of Salford invites you to take part in a leisurely 7-mile walk for adults (18+) to raise money for people experiencing poverty, homelessness, and disadvantage in our diocese. The walk takes place on Saturday 13 September and takes in the beautiful sights of the Tolkien Trail in the Ribble Valley. Find out more at www.caritassalford.org.uk/lancswalk 
 
 
Family Forest Fun Mornings 
Gather the family together to celebrate God's creation with Family Forest Fun Mornings at the Diocese of Salford's Laudato Si' Centre. Taking place between 10am-12.30pm over the first three Tuesdays of August, these sessions are packed with a range of activities that teach us more about the wonder of creation. Find out more and register at https://laudatosicentre.org.uk/events/family-forest-fun-mornings/ 
 
Silent Retreat 
Join the Diocese of Salford's Laudato Si' Centre between 9.30am - 3.30pm on Friday 1 August for a prayerful silent retreat. Begin the day with a tour of Wardley Hall and the Laudato Si' Centre before spending time in silent prayer, reflection, and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. The day ends with Outdoor Mass and a final opportunity for reflection. Email laudatosi@dioceseofsalford.org.uk to find out more and register. 
 
WeBelieve – Festival of Catholic Life
Celebrate the Jubilee at WeBelieve, a festival of Catholic Life gathering the Church to share the hope that we have in Christ. From 25th-28th July, join us for four days of music, keynotes, conversation & worship at St Mary's College, Oscott, Birmingham. Featuring Dr Gianna Emanuela Molla (daughter of St Gianna Molla), Fr Paul Murray, Msgr Michael Nazir-Ali, AnMari, The Southwell Consort, Fr Toby Lees & many more. Early Bird Tickets available now at www.webelievefestival.com
 
 
Salford Lourdes Pre-Departure Mass
The Diocese of Salford Lourdes Pilgrimage Team invites you to join them for this year's Pre-Departure Mass.  Mass will be celebrated by Bishop John, along with clergy from the diocese, with music for our wonderful Lourdes choir. Whether you're travelling with us to Lourdes or are looking to accompany us in prayer at home, you're most welcome to join us at 5.30pm on Sunday 27 July at St Patrick's, Collyhurst.
 
 
Jubilee for Children and Families
This month, we join Catholics around the world in celebrating the Jubilee for Children and Families. As we come together in this Holy Year, we invite you to pray for all families in our diocese. May we look to the love of the Holy Family to guide us in our vocation to family life; praying for the grace to love with peace, gentleness, and hope in the face of all our challenges.
 
 

Friday, 27 June 2025

Solemnity of Saints Peter & Paul, Apostles - Sunday 29th June 2025

 
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Saint Mary's Roman Catholic Church
Catlow Hall Street, Oswaldtwistle
Lancashire
BB5 3EZ
 
Parish Priest: Rev. Fr. S D O'Brien
Tel: 01254-232433
Sunday 29th June 2025
Solemnity of Saints Peter & Paul, Apostles
 
 
Masses & Liturgies for the following week...
 
Friday 27th June
7pm Thanksgiving Mass to mark the centenary of St. Anne's Church, Accrington,
celebrated by Rt. Rev. John Arnold, Bishop of Salford.
 
Saturday 28th June
6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World
6:30pm Vigil Mass for Solemnity of Saints Peter & Paul, Apostles
"Both apostles share the same feast day, for these two were one; and even though they suffered on different days, they were as one. Peter went first, and Paul followed. And so we celebrate this day made holy for us by the apostles' blood. Let us embrace what they believed, their life, their labours, their sufferings, their preaching, and their confession of faith". - St. Augustine of Hippo
 
Sunday 29th June
9:30am The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World
10am Mass for Solemnity of Saints Peter & Paul, Apostles
"There are the gates of our true country, the two lights of the immense world. There Paul's voice is heard like thunder; there Peter withholds or hurls the bolt. The former opens the hearts of men, the latter opens Heaven. Peter is the Foundation-stone, Paul the Architect of the temple where stands the Altar by which God is propitiated. Both together form a single Fountain, which pours out its healing and refreshing waters." St. Venantius Fortunatus
 
Tuesday 1st July
5pm – 5:45pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
5:45pm Weekday Mass (Feria)
 
Wednesday 2nd July
9:15am – 9:50am Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
10am Weekday Mass (Feria)
 
Thursday 3rd July
10am Requiem Mass for Margaret Claire Hilton RIP
7pm Celebration of Sacrament of Confirmation ( At St Joseph's, Accrington)
 
 
Fr. Adam's First Mass at St Mary's.
Everyone is welcome to come on Monday 7th July as our brand new priest - Fr. Adam Bamber - will celebrate his first Mass at St. Mary's. This is truly a blessing for us as a parish. Over the last 7 years we have accompanied, supported and prayed for Adam on the journey towards priesthood. It is fitting then and a grace filled moment that we are able to be present when he offers up the sacrifice of the Mass for us. Mass will begin at 7pm followed by refreshments - All are invited and welcome.
 
 
Sanctuary Lamp
This week (28th June – 4th July), the Sanctuary Lamp is for Jean Dwyer.
 
 
Our Lady's Lamp
This week (28th June – 4th July), Our Lady's Lamp is for Stan Bateson.
 
 
 
Last Week's Offertory Collection
£617.45. Thank you for your kind generosity.
 
 
Deacon Adam's Ordination to the Priesthood
 
For those parishioners travelling to Adam's ordination at Shrewsbury Cathedral on Saturday 5th July, please ensure you arrive to Church no later than 8:15am to allow time for seating and preparations for departure by 8:30am. If you have any questions or require assistance on the day, please contact parish secretary Ciara on 07719063876 or via email at Ciara.kelly@dioceseofsalford.org.uk. We look forward to sharing this special occasion with you.
 
 
Parish Bible Study – The Book of Revelation
The next session is Wednesday 9th July from 7pm – 8pm. All are welcome. All you need is a Bible and an openness to come to know Our Lord better. Come and join us.
 
 
WeBelieve – Festival of Catholic Life
Celebrate the Jubilee at WeBelieve, a festival of Catholic Life gathering the Church to share the hope that we have in Christ. From 25th-28th July, join us for four days of music, keynotes, conversation & worship at St Mary's College, Oscott, Birmingham. Featuring Dr Gianna Emanuela Molla (daughter of St Gianna Molla), Fr Paul Murray, Msgr Michael Nazir-Ali, AnMari, The Southwell Consort, Fr Toby Lees & many more. Early Bird Tickets available now at www.webelievefestival.com
 
 
Salford Lourdes Pre-Departure Mass
The Diocese of Salford Lourdes Pilgrimage Team invites you to join them for this year's Pre-Departure Mass.  Mass will be celebrated by Bishop John, along with clergy from the diocese, with music for our wonderful Lourdes choir. Whether you're travelling with us to Lourdes, or are looking to accompany us in prayer at home, you're most welcome to join us at 5.30pm on Sunday 27 July at St Patrick's, Collyhurst.
 
 
Fancy a Walk?
Our diocesan charity Caritas Diocese of Salford invites you to take part in a leisurely 7-mile walk for adults (18+) to raise money for people experiencing poverty, homelessness, and disadvantage in our diocese. The walk takes place on Saturday 13 September and takes in the beautiful sights of the Tolkien Trail in the Ribble Valley. Find out more at
www.caritassalford.org.uk/lancswalk
 
 
 
Jubilee for Children and Families
This month, we join Catholics around the world in celebrating the Jubilee for Children and Families. As we come together in this Holy Year, we invite you to pray for all families in our diocese. May we look to the love of the Holy Family to guide us in our vocation to family life; praying for the grace to love with peace, gentleness, and hope in the face of all our challenges.
 
 
Synod Implementation Update - June 2025
Our Diocese continues its journey of renewal and listening, begun by the Synod process. A Synod Implementation Team has been formed to guide the four key areas identified at our voting day in March. Each grouping of Leadership and Collaboration, Community and Outreach, Young People and Schools, and Spirituality and Formation, have their own dedicated subgroup.
As these teams begin their work, two recommendations are already developing.
The Community and Outreach group is recommending the establishment of Welcome Teams in every parish. Parishes are encouraged to share their good practice on Welcome and are asked to form Teams by the First Sunday of Advent.
Ideas and opinions are being gathered which may promote appropriate support structures for our clergy.
Let us continue to pray that we may discern what the Holy Spirit is saying to the Church, and to our Diocese, in these times.
Stay with us Lord, on our journey
With my thanks for your support on our Synodal journey as a Diocese and for all that you are achieving.
Bishop of Salford