Newsletter- 28th Week of Ordinary Time
Dear Parishioners
Today in the Gospel set for the – 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year C – we hear about how Jesus, continuing his journey to Jerusalem, heals 10 lepers. This story is a lesson about faith and reminds us that faith is sometimes found in unlikely places.
Ten people afflicted with leprosy cry out to Jesus. Struck with pity, Jesus heals all 10. However, only one is described as glorifying God and returning to thank Jesus. The one who returns is a Samaritan, a foreigner. In the Jewish circles in which Jesus lived, Samaritans were looked down upon because of the differences between the two communities in their observance of Judaism. It is significant, therefore, that Jesus commends the Samaritan for his faith, which has been his salvation. Throughout Luke’s Gospel, faith is found in surprising places.
Another lesson for us in this Gospel has to do with salvation. All 10 of the lepers were given the gift of healing, but in his gratitude to God for this gift, the Samaritan found salvation. Our salvation is found in recognizing the gifts we have been given and knowing to whom we must offer our thanks.
The Jubilee of Prisoners and Prison Workers – This weekend is the start of Prisons Week
Prisons Week 2025 takes as its theme “God’s word is not chained!”. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Prisons Week, an annual event that encourages all Christian communities to pray for those affected by the prison system. Resources and more information can be found on the official Prisons Week website and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference website. Purpose: To promote prayer and awareness for prisoners, their families, victims of crime, prison staff, and others involved in the justice system.
Fr Jonathan remains on holiday until this Thursday 16th October when the normal Mass schedule will resume. Deacon Andrew will be the first point of contact in an emergency; he will be able to put you in touch with a priest. Or you can telephone Fr Stephen Dye (retired and living still in Oakham) 07980 148193; For all other non-urgent parish matters Fr Jonathan asks that you please wait for his return before contacting him. Mgr. John Hadley will be offering the weekend Masses at St Mary’s this weekend.
Schedule of Liturgies – Monday 13th October – Wednesday 15th October
Monday 13th October – church closed no Liturgies
Tuesday 14th October – church closed no Liturgies
Weds. 15th October – Service of Word & Holy Communion (Eucharistic Minister) – 9.30am
Thurs. 16th October – Normal Mass Times Resume – Mass 11 a.m.
Please note the church will be closed outside of the Liturgies listed above. The church will be open again throughout the day from 8.30 a.m. until dusk from Thursday 16th October.
2025 12th October – Newsletter – Download