Father Anton's Weekly Column –
SIXTH SUNDAY YEAR B
Dear Parishioners
The best laid plans of men and mice often go astray. And as often as not it is the weather that is to blame. Thank you last Sunday for the valiant effort made especially by those seeking to make their Confirmation this year. Despite everything there was a good turn out, although understandably the snow and ice made it impossible for some. It looks as though this weekend is experiencing something of a repeat but hopefully not as bad as last weekend. Whatever decision you make, take very great care on the snow and ice and keep Jesus close to your hearts.
It is half term this week and Lent begins the week after. We will also be having the Confirmation Preparation Mass on the Thursday of the same week. There is a lot to do this year with all three programmes running, First Confession, First Communion and Confirmation. Remember Mums and Dads, this is a time of renewal for yourselves as well as a major set of commitments for your children. The teachings of the church remind us that parents are the first and most important teachers. We, as a community, can only build on the promises you make and keep on behalf of your children. It is essential that parents play their part in this programme and make sure their souls are ready and prepared to do their best for their children’s reception of these sacraments.
During Lent it is very important for us to examine our consciences and confess our sins, the things we have done wrong and the things we have failed to do. It is also important to fast and abstain. All religions follow the path of fast and abstinence because it is seen as good for the soul, body and mind. The Church also reminds us that Easter is the time to make sure our commitment is secured and real. It means we are called to check that we are in a state of grace and renew our promises that we have made to Christ and his Church.
We also remember our Queen this week, who sixty years ago on February 6th came to the throne. Let us pray for her and give thanks for her stalwart and loving duty to the nation. We also look forward to the celebration of her coronation this coming June.
Please keep in your prayers this week the soul of Beattie Pepper who died last Friday. Her Requiem Mass is to be celebrated this Tuesday at 10.15 a.m. followed by burial in Newcastle Cemetery. Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord!
Please keep in your prayers the following: Evie Rose Marsh who is to be baptised this Sunday, Ted Hothersall who is making slow but steady progress in hospital, Bernard Rudd who is recuperating from an operation whilst working abroad and little Olivia who is undergoing further treatment. May the love of this community be a steadfast reminder of God’s love for everyone of us.
For those who are profiting from a half-term break, take care, have a good rest and keep an eye out for the weather conditions. Hopefully it will be a little warmer this coming week.
God bless as always,
Father Anton s.c.j.