Masses & Liturgies for the Coming Week…
Saturday 9th April
6pm The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World
6:30pm Vigil Mass for Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord
Sunday 10th April
9:30am The Holy Rosary for Peace in the World
10am Mass for Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord
Tuesday 12th April
10:20am Funeral Service for Garry Stephenson RIP, Accrington Crematorium
5pm – 5:50pm Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions
6pm Holy Week Mass
Wednesday 13th April
10am Holy Week Mass
1:15pm St. Mary's School: Children's Stations of the Cross (In church)
Maunday Thursday 14th April
7:30pm Mass of the Lord's Supper & The Washing of Feet
8:30pm Watching at the Altar of Repose
9:30pm Night Prayer
Good Friday 15th April (Day of Fasting & Abstinence)
9am – 10am Confessions
10am Stations of the Cross
3pm Solemn Liturgy of the Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ
Holy Saturday 16th April
8:30pm The Easter Vigil
Sunday 17th April
10am Easter Mass
Sanctuary Lamp
This week (9th April - 16th April) the Sanctuary Lamp is burning in prayer before the Tabernacle for All the Parishioners of St. Mary's.
Covid 19: Easter Triduum
Below is the guidelines from the Bishops Conference of England and Wales in regards the liturgies over the Sacred Triduum this year.
On Holy Thursday, the Washing of the Feet as part of the rite of the Mandatum is restored. The celebrant should wear a face covering whilst performing this rite.
On Good Friday, the Veneration of the Cross is also restored. Those who approach the Cross, after making the customary reverence before it, can either touch the Cross in a devotional way or kiss the Cross provided that an alcoholic wipe is used to clean the place that is venerated after each kiss by the faithful.
The Easter Vigil is restored in its full Rite. The faithful gathering for the ceremonies can have candles and the baptismal liturgy can take place along with any associated confirmations. For the anointings as part of this, the thumb or a cotton bud can be used, with the celebrant taking care to cleanse his hands appropriately. The sprinkling of the faithful during the vidi aquam is permitted.
Conclusion, Whilst the circulation of the virus continues in society, the clear direction of the UK Government is that after two years of restrictions and following the successful roll-out of the vaccination programme, the usual patterns of life should return. This is true for the life of the Church in England in Wales in all of its activities. Whilst recognising this principle, there should be vigilance at the local level in terms of viral infection and transmission and local adaptations should be put in place.
Rev. Canon Christopher Thomas (Bishop's Conference Secretary)
Offertory Envelopes, Gift Aid & Direct Debit
Thank you for your continued generosity and financial support towards St. Mary's, especially during these days of rising costs. Thank you also to Rob Harrison and Berni McGuinness who are continuing to facilitate this important part of our parish's life. With Covid none of this has been easy. From this weekend the new offertory envelopes will be available until the 13th April. Please ask one of the stewards at the back of church for yours. Any envelopes that are not collected by the 13th April will not be re-ordered as the cost of ordering and printing envelopes is now £361.42 (Envelope Systems Ltd).
Rob and Berni will be available at the back of church this weekend to help answer any questions about paying via Direct Debit/Standing Orders or signing up to the Gift Aid scheme which is always a significant financial boost. For more info contact: berni.mcguinness@dioceseofsalford.org.uk
St. Mary's Prayer Group
This week we were given a glimpse of the full horrors that the people of Ukraine have been enduring since the Russian invasion began.
The streets of Bucha, formerly a small, affluent town on the commuter-belt into Kiev, is littered with the bodies of men, women and children - young and old. We see sickening pictures of mass graves, with the victim's body parts jutting out of the mud; hear stories of atrocities committed against women and children; we bear witness to an obscene carnival of unspeakable horror, inflicted on innocent people. These disgusting acts of war will have played out across the country.
Why were these things allowed to happen? Where was God? Perhaps the Apostles asked the same question when Jesus was being crucified. In retrospect we know what happened next, but in the midst of such suffering it is hard, if not impossible, to see any light at the end of such a long tunnel.
Someone recently told me that they stopped 'Doing Lent', because 'Nothing good happened when I did it, and nothing bad happened when I didn't.' Is this something that we all do to some extent?
Sometimes it is easy to think of prayer as a spiritual bank. I deposit the cash (my prayers) in the bank (with God) and I expect/demand a healthy return on my investment (my prayers answered how I like). But this is not how prayer works.
We have prayed and prayed for the situation in Ukraine to end, and it is easy to feel that our pleas have not made any difference. But I promise, they have. Even better, Jesus promises that they have - He is very clear in the Gospels that God hears our prayers. But He is also very clear that God works in mysterious ways and even when our prayers are heard, they might not be answered in ways that we expect or understand. The trick is to put all your trust in God, and allow Him to take the reigns - especially when things appear hopeless.
So if, like me, you watch the news and wonder if your prayers are making a difference, don't give up. God is with us every bit as much as He is with the families hiding in basements, or the soldiers fighting on the frontline, or the Red Cross volunteers trying to evacuate refugees. And He hears us all. We just need to keep talking to Him and trusting in Him.
As always, we will be meeting on Saturday at 6pm in church to say a Rosary for peace, healing and justice in Ukraine. If you are unable to join us in person, please say a Rosary in solidarity with us. It all counts.
Help Needed!!!
Would a parishioner be kind enough to collect the Holy Oils for me on Wednesday 13th April from St. Mary's Church, Yorkshire Street, Burnley between 4pm -5pm. I have a First Holy Communion Class followed by a Confirmation Class on the Wednesday afternoon. If you are able to volunteer please let me know after Mass this weekend or email sean.obrien@dioceseofsalford.org.uk
Thank you and God Bless.
Peoples Missals
Since Covid many parishioners have started to invest in their own Missal (The prayer book used at Mass) as an aid in private devotion and to help reflect on the scripture readings during the week. I've been asked many times over Lent which is the best one – How long is a piece of string? The one that I personally use is from the Catholic Truth Society (CTS) called: CTS New Sunday Missal – Standard Hardback Edition £19.95. It has all the Sunday readings as well as major feasts and solemnities. There are prayers before and after Mass, as well as the Eucharistic prayers and prefaces. It's a great prayerful resource to have. You can buy a copy online from the Cathoilic Truth Society Website - www.ctsbooks.org
Mass of the Sacred Chrism
The Cathedral Dean, Fr. Michael Jones, has sent our parish three tickets for the Chrism Mass on Wednesday 13th April at 11am. If you are living in the parish and would like the opportunity to go to this Solemn Mass, where the Bishop blesses the Holy Oils for the diocese, then do email me at sean.obrien@dioceseofsalford.org.uk or see me after Mass.
Children's Stations of the Cross
On Wednesday 13th April at 1:15pm, the children of St. Mary's school will lead us in the prayer of Stations of the Cross at church. All are welcome.
Online Stations of the Cross Reflections from The Hidden Gem
In the days leading up to Easter, the Diocese of Salford will be presenting a digital version of the Stations of the Cross using the striking paintings from The Hidden Gem Church, Mulberry Street, Manchester. The Stations will give people the opportunity to pray and meditate on Christ's journey to the cross through the powerful reflections written by Bishop Brain. An introduction to the Stations will be posted on Sunday 3 April on the Diocese of Salford website and social media channels, with one station being posted each day until Easter Sunday.
Visit www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/news/ for more information.
Journey to the Cross: Social media reflections on The Lord's Passion
Follow in the steps of Our Lord this Holy Week as our Youth Ministry team leads us in thoughtful reflections on the final walk of Jesus. Each minute-long reflection takes a closer look at different characters from St Luke's Gospel - from Peter denying Jesus, to the two criminals that were crucified with Christ - to help immerse us in the story of The Lord's Passion this Holy Week. Watch on our social media channels or visit www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/journey-to-the-cross/ from Palm Sunday.
SOS. Volunteers Needed. Church Brasses.
If any kind parishioners would be willing to volunteer to help polish and buff the church brasses (Candlesticks, Thurible & Boat, Paschal Candle Stand etc.) on Tuesday 12th April from 10am then you would be warmly welcomed and there's a brew in it.
Easter Flowers
Maureen Mullen has generously offered to help arrange flower displays for the church windows as well as in front of the statues of St. Patrick & St. Joseph, in memory of loved ones who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith. If you would like to sponsor an Easter Flower Display (donation of £12), please see Maureen after a Sunday Mass at the back of church. Many other parishioners have asked how they could donate towards church flowers without sponsoring a display. All you need do is place you donation in an envelope clearly marked 'Flowers' and put it in one of the collection baskets around church or hand it to a steward. Thank you.
Legion of Mary: Divine Mercy Sunday Devotions
On Sunday 24th April there will be the Divine Mercy Devotions at St. Joseph's Church, Audley Range, Blackburn beginning at 2pm. It will start with Eucharistic Adoration, The Divine Mercy Chaplet, O'Clock Prayer, Blessing and Procession of the Divine Mercy Image and Holy Mass at 3pm. For more information contact Peter Costello (01254) 262 952
Royal British Legion: Church & Oswaldtwistle Branch
The Committee & Members of the local Church & Oswaldtwistle Branch warmly invite people to come to their annual social event on Sunday 10th April at Oswaldtwistle Social Club, Rhyddings Street from 2pm – 4pm. For more details contact Sarah Barton on 07412647168 or email info@bartonhallworth.co.uk
Parish Website: Deceased List Name Submission.
We have recently been getting a number of requests to include names on the website without the date being included. This makes it difficult to determine which are recent deaths and which are anniversaries, therefore in which column do we insert them? Please remember that the list is refreshed around the first of the month, so if your anniversary listing is anywhere within the required month please submit it early to ensure it is displayed throughout the whole month e.g. If the anniversary date is 27th and submitted on that date it may only be displayed until the end of the month. John Hughes, Parish Website Administrator.
Piety stall
Now things are getting back to normal, why not have a look at the refreshed piety stall as you leave church. Get your Easter 'Chicks' all of the money raised is for church funds, and check out our new stocks of rosaries, cards and much more.
Knights of St. Columba: Procession of Witness
Interdenominational Procession of Witness on Good Friday 15th April 2022. Assemble at the top of Avenue Parade for an 11am start. All are welcome.
The Three Kings!!!
Our parish Nativity Set is almost fully restored apart from the Three Kings. Lewis & Lewis who have so beautifully restored our crib figures and Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle have sent through the following costs for the last statues:
'Degrease and prepare all surfaces; King 1 – repair to head and neck, breaks in gown edges; King 2- repair small chips; King 3- repairs to head and neck, fingers. Remove irreparable amateur repairs and re-assemble figure as required. Repaint all figures and add protective coating. £995.'
It would be wonderful to have our Kings fully restored and back at St. Mary's for Christmas this year. Any donations towards the costs would be gratefully appreciated. Just place any monies in an envelope marked 'Three Kings' and place it in one of the collection baskets around church or hand it to a steward. Thank you as always for your kind generosity. God Bless.
Parish Easter Walk
Haslingden Grane Sunday 24th April (Easter)
The shortest walk – well it is Divine Mercy Sunday! Beautiful scenic views.
Meeting at Clough Head Information Centre, 1:30pm
Distance 3miles 4.8km
I hope that many parishioners and families will join me and Mr Crompton (St. Mary's School RE Yr 2 Teacher RE Co-ordinator) as well as other familiar faces on these walks for the simple joy of getting out into the fresh air, enjoying the peaceful and prayerful countryside, meeting others and having fun!
It is important to note that each person who joins us will be responsible for themselves and those in their family group. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Be prepared for muddy hillsides and fells. Bring appropriate footware, clothing and food and drinks for the journey. If you would like to ask more questions or get a copy of the route do see me in the sacristy at the end of the Mass.
Ukraine Crisis
We are all shocked and appalled at the devastating scenes of the invasion of the Ukraine. Catholic agencies are at the centre of the response to the unfolding humanitarian crisis and supporting those whom have been displaced. We stand in solidarity with the Ukrainian people and all those against war. There are regular updates on the Caritas website on the various ways parishes and schools can support the aid effort. Please go to: https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/ukraine-crisis/
Formation Series: Fr Gerard Kelly - Personal Encounter with Jesus
Wednesday 27th April 2022, 7:30pm – 9:00pm
Cathedral Centre, Salford, M3 6DP and via Zoom.
Throughout Stage Four of our Hope in the Future journey, we will have several opportunities to explore our faith and role as missionary disciples through our formation series. On Wednesday 27 April 2022, Fr Gerard Kelly will lead a reflection about having a Personal Encounter with Jesus.
Tea and Coffee will be available from 7:00pm. Following the talk there will be chance to ask questions. To register, please visit www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/personal-encounter-with-jesus/
Young Adults Mass
St Augustine's Church, Grosvenor Street, All Saints, Manchester, M15 6BW
Sunday 10th April 2022, 5.30pm
We are delighted to announce the return of our regular Mass for Young Adults. The Mass will take place on the second Sunday of every month at St Augustine's Catholic Church, Grosvenor St, Manchester. Our next Mass will be at 5.30pm on Sunday 10 April - Palm Sunday - and will include a short talk on next year's World Youth Day, and a social event following the celebration of the Mass. All are very welcome to attend. For any further questions, please email Alex at SalfordYoungAdults@vol.dioceseofsalford.org.uk
Ancient Byzantine Iconography course
A full, seven-day immersion in the spirituality and discipline of writing an icon in the Byzantine style, led by Deacon Nikita Andreyev, of the Prosopon School of Iconograph. Residential and non-residential options, with the course taking place from Saturday 25th June to Friday 1st July at the Christian Heritage Centre at Stonyhurst. For more info and to book, https://christianheritagecentre.com/events/iconography-course/
Caritas Diocese of Salford Jobs
Project workers
Appointment type: Full-time (37.5 hours per week)
Location: Cornerstone Day Centre, Hulme, Manchester
Closing date: Monday 18 April 2022, 5pm
Salary: £25,763 - £27,886
Find out more and apply: www.caritassalford.org.uk
God Bless and keep praying.
Our Lady of Oswaldtwistle, pray for us.
Saint Joseph, pray for us.
Fr. O'Brien