Newsletter-15th Week of Ordinary Time
Dear Parishioners
‘Listen!’ The word of God is proclaimed throughout the whole of creation. All the readings in the liturgy this weekend are filled with images drawn from nature. The word is like rain refreshing the earth, bringing goodness and growth wherever it falls. (First Reading). The Psalm is a prayerful song of thanks after a time of drought. It reminds us of the bountiful love that pours out from the Lord, filling us with joy and good things. St. Paul (Second Reading) writes of a deep longing within us – and within the whole of creation – for the fulfilment of God’s promise. The word of God will give us the freedom we long for. Jesus shares the parable of the sower casting seeds upon the land to teach us to cherish the word of God. The parable reminds us of the many things that can distract and prevent us from fulfilling all that we are called to be. When we learn to truly listen, the word of God is an abundant source of growth. It provides rich fruit for the benefit of all.
In this coming week, we might want to look around us and notice the different ways in which creation speaks to us of the love of God. Let us pray for the courage and grace to sow, nurture, grow and harvest the Word of God wherever we may be and in all the situations of our daily lives.
Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage: 13th – 17th July – Prayer Intentions – This week I will be joining the diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes. If you have any prayer intentions that you would like me to offer on your behalf during the Pilgrimage, please give these to me this weekend and I will ensure I light a candle and offer your prayer intentions at the Grotto of Massabielle.
Changes to the Normal Mass times this week (13th– 17th July):
Monday – No Liturgies – church closed all day
Tuesday – No Liturgies – church closed all day
Wednesday – Mass at 9.30 am – church closed after Mass
Thursday – No Liturgies – church closed all day
Friday – Mass at 9.30 am – church closed after Mass
Looking ahead – School Leavers Mass 10 am – On Tuesday 21st July – In a week’s time we shall host St Mary’s Primary School for their leavers Mass after which they will have their end of term Prize giving in church. Parishioners are warmly invited to attend.
With my prayers for you and your families during my time in Lourdes this coming week,
Your parish priest and friend,
Father Jonathan
2026 12th July – Newsletter – Download