Bletchley Parish

This Week’s Liturgies
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Sunday Second Sunday of the Year

6:00pm (STA) (Saturday) Vigil Mass
7:30am (STA) Mass
9:00am (AS) Mass
11:00am (AS) Mass
6:30pm (AS) Mass

Monday Feria
9:30am (STA) Holy Rosary
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration

Tuesday Memoria: St Agnes
9:30am (AS) Holy Rosary
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Adoration
11:30am (STA) Funeral Service of Patirck McGivney

Wednesday Feria
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Rosary

Thursday Feria
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Rosary and D.M Chaplet

Friday Memoria: St Francis de Sales
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration and Rosary

Saturday Feast: Conversion of St Paul
9:30am (STA)
Mass followed by Adoration & Rosary
10:00-10:30am (STA) CONFESSIONS

STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Avenue, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Road, MK3 6HG

A New Bishop for Northampton Diocese
The Holy Father has appointed Canon David Oakley, a priest of the Archdiocese of Birmingham and currently rector of St. Mary’s College, Oscott, to be the thirteenth Bishop of Northampton. Cardinal Vincent Nichols will celebrate the Episcopal Ordination of Bishop Elect David in Northampton Cathedral at 11 am on the Solemnity of St. Joseph, 19 March 2020. Bishop Peter Doyle rejoices in this good news. The Bishop has worked closely with Bishop Elect David during his seven years as rector of the seminary at Oscott, and knows him to be a man of faith and prayer, and a pastoral priest and wise teacher. Bishop Peter joins the priests and deacons, and the religious and people of the Diocese of Northampton in giving thanks to God and welcoming Bishop Elect David and praying for him as he prepares for his ordination as Bishop.

Second Collection – This weekend:
Comboni Missionaries (Verona Fathers)
“We are a world-wide group of more than 3,500 priests, brothers, sisters, and laity In all the places we serve we share our deep faith in God through service:
• Ministering through the Sacraments
• Helping improve quality of life
• Preparing local Christian leaders to serve their people
• Providing resources such as food, clean water, churches, medicine, schools, and community centers”

Requiescant in Pace
Please pray for repose of the soul of

Patrick McGivney, whose Funeral Service will be at 11.30am on Tuesday 21st January at St Thomas Aquinas Church.
Owen Lowe, whose Funeral Service will be at 2:45pm on Friday 31st January at Crownhill Cremotrium.

Phoenix Youth Group
Tuesday 28th January, 7:30pm – 9pm
St Thomas Aquinas Church Meeting room (MK2 2JE)
For young people in the Parish in school years 7-11Come along for Pizza, games and an opportunity to share and reflect on our Catholic faith.

Celebration 2020
Celebration provides religious formation to young people from year 6 up to 6th form. It is a residential weekend being held at Thornton School from 28th -30th August. Application forms are available from Fr Christopher.

Dementia Friendly Mass
3 pm Tuesday 28th January:
St Thomas Aquinas Church
An opportunity for those with Dementia and their carers to come together to celebrate Mass and spend some time together in a friendly and supportive environment.
All are very welcome to attend.

Baptism Preparation Meeting
The next meeting for parents who are requesting Baptism for their children will be at 8pm on Thursday 30th January, 8pm at St Thomas Aquinas Church, MK2 2JE. The meeting is for parents and guardians only, unfortunately we are unable to accommodate young children.

Recycling – Refuse Sacks
As a Parish we are very conscious of the moral and ethical imperative to recycle as much as we can and to avoid unnecessary waste ending up in landfill. We have over the years had a steady supply of re-cycling sacks from Milton Keynes Council, however this supply is drying up and recycling sacks are no longer issued by the council to Churches. On average we use around 10 sacks per week, so we need your help. If you have any surplus rolls of recycling sacks could you bring them to church and leave them in the sacristy. Together we can therefore ensure that we are able to recycle as much as we can.

SVP Thank you
On behalf of the Society of St Vincent de Paul [SVP] and particularly those in need who we assist in various ways, I want to THANK YOU for all you have done in the past year to support our efforts. You truly are a very generous people; no more so than your response to our cash collection just before Christmas which raised an amazing total of £1025:83. This is the highest SVP Retiring Collection I have ever known [and that spans over 35 years in this Parish].
This enables us to tackle, with great confidence, some of the more challenging situations we encounter.
May God Bless you and all those that you hold dear during this coming year. John Scott SVP Conference President.

With every blessing for the week ahead
Fr Christopher & Fr Emmanuel

This Week’s Liturgies
Sunday: The Baptism of the Lord
6:00pm (Sat) (STA) Vigil Mass
7:30am (STA) Mass
9:00am (AS) Mass
11:00am (AS) Mass
6:30pm (AS) Mass

Here ends the Season of Christmas Ordinary time resumes

Monday Feria
9:30am (STA) Holy Rosary
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration
Tuesday Feria
9:30am (AS) Holy Rosary
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Adoration
Wednesday Feria
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Rosary
Thursday Feria
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Rosary and D.M Chaplet
Friday Memoria: St Anthony
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration and Rosary
Saturday Feria
Octave of Prayer for Christian Unity
9:30am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration & Rosary
10:00-10:30am (STA) CONFESSIONS

STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Avenue, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Road, MK3 6HG

Message from Bishop Peter:
”I am thrilled that the Holy Father has appointed Canon David Oakley (presently Rector of Oscott Seminary) as the new Bishop of Northampton. (His Episcopal Ordination will be at Northampton Cathedral on 19th March at 11am). I know that you will give him the loving support which I have experienced in my time in the Diocese and for which I want to thank you so very much. “

Second Collection – Next weekend:
Comboni Missionaries (Verona Fathers)
“We are a world-wide group of more than 3,500 priests, brothers, sisters, and laity from diverse cultures who have dedicated our lives to following Christ’s example and St. Daniel Comboni’s missionary ideal of evangelization. Today the Comboni Missionaries serve on five continents. We first worked in Europe and Africa, moving to North and South America in the 1930s, and expanding into Asia in the 1980s. Comboni Missionary priests and brothers believe God’s call to mission is as strong today as it was 2000 years ago when Jesus told His apostles, “Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation” (Mark 16:15). We live a vowed life and dedicate ourselves to taking the Gospel to the poorest and most abandoned wherever they are, no matter how dire their circumstances. Jesus advocated for the poor, blessed them, listened to them, and loved them “even unto death.” We, as Comboni Missionaries strive to do the same.
In all the places we serve we share our deep faith in God through service:
• Ministering through the Sacraments
• Helping improve quality of life
• Preparing local Christian leaders to serve their people
• Providing resources such as food, clean water, churches, medicine, schools, and community centers”

Requiescant in Pace
Please pray for repose of the soul of
Concetta Adorno, whose Funeral Mass will be at 10:00am on Tuesday 14th January at St Thomas Aquinas Church.
Thomas Vincent McEntee, whose Funeral will be at 3.30pm on Friday 17th January at Crownhill Crematorium.
Thomas McGivney, whose funeral Service will be at 11.30am on Tuesday 21st January at St Thomas Aquinas Church.

Bereavement Support Group
Do you miss someone? Would you like to talk about it? Our Parish Bereavement Group gives you the safe space to share your grief following the loss of a loved one. We listen and talk about those who are gone and reflect on our faith to guide us through. Monday 13th January, 3.30-5:00 pm
Now at a change of venue:
St Thomas Aquinas Church Meeting Room (MK2 2JE)

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2020
18th – 25th January
On 10th February many Christians in Malta celebrate the Feast of the Shipwreck of St Paul, marking and giving thanks for the arrival of Christian faith on these islands. The reading from the Acts of the Apostles used for the feast is the text chosen for this year’s Week of Prayer. Hospitality is a much needed virtue in our search for Christian unity. It calls us to a greater generosity to those in need. The people who showed unusual kindness to Paul and his companions did not yet know Christ, and yet it is through their unusual kindness that a divided people were drawn closer together. Our own Christian unity will be discovered not only through showing hospitality to one another, but also through loving encounters with those who do not share our language, culture or faith.
In such tempestuous journeys and chance encounters, God’s will for his Church and all people comes to fulfilment. As Paul will proclaim in Rome, this salvation of God has been sent to all peoples (see Acts 28:28). Social media: Show your support for Christian Unity by posting unity messages to our Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Twitter wall – simply add the #wpcuwall hashtag to your Twitter post (note there is a delay before they appear). You can also find updates about the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity on Twitter by following the #wpcu2020 hashtag.

Recycling – Refuse Sacks
As a Parish we are very conscious of the moral and ethical imperative to recycle as much as we can and to avoid unnecessary waste ending up in landfill. We have over the years had a steady supply of re-cycling sacks from Milton Keynes Council, however this supply is drying up and recycling sacks are no longer issued by the council to Churches. On average we use around 10 sacks per week, so we need your help. If you have any surplus rolls of recycling sacks could you bring them to church and leave them in the sacristy. Together we can therefore ensure that we are able to recycle as much as we can.

New Year’s Resolution:
Make a Difference Through CAFOD
Try something that is calorie-free and life giving. We really need people who are interested to go into our Catholic schools and inspire students to act on their sense of justice. You don’t have to be a teacher to do this role, only a passion for CAFOD’s work and an ability to communicate well with children and young people. If you are good at motivating others, we have the ideal role for you – inspiring other volunteers in nearby parishes. Also, we would love to share more of the great acts of love carried out by our parishes and schools via media. So, if you are able to help promote our work in this way, we would love to hear from you. All necessary training, travel expenses and resources will be provided. To get in touch:
northampton@cafod.org.uk or 01494 863 777.

The Word of Life Team…
You are cordially invited to our Word of Life teaching and prayer ministry on Friday 17th January 2020 and every 3rd Friday of the month, at All Saints Church.
*Featuring: Mass and Teaching; Adoration;
Worship/Praises and Prayers
*Time: 7:00pm to 9:00pm.
*Venue: All Saints Church, Shenley Road,
Bletchley, (Milton Keynes) MK3 6HG.
Come and enjoy the glory, beauty and power of His presence. Everything you need is with Jesus. Come with your family and invite your friends.

With every blessing for the week ahead
Fr Christopher & Fr Emmanuel

This Week’s Liturgies

Sunday: The Epiphany of the Lord
6:00pm (Sat) (STA) Vigil Mass
7:30am (STA) Mass
9:00am (AS) Mass
11:00am (AS) Mass
6:30pm (AS) Mass

Monday Feria
9:30am (STA) Holy Rosary
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration
Tuesday Feria
9:30am (AS) Holy Rosary
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Adoration
Wednesday Feria
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Rosary
Thursday Feria
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Rosary and D.M Chaplet
Friday Feria
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration and Rosary
Saturday Feria
9:30am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration & Rosary
10:00-10:30am (STA) CONFESSIONS

STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Avenue, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Road, MK3 6HG

Pope Francis’ Prayer Intentions for January: Promotion of World Peace
We pray that Christians, followers of other religions, and all people of goodwill may promote peace and justice in the world.

Divine Mercy Devotions
Today: 5th January
3pm at All Saints Church, everyone very welcome!

Requiescant in Pace
Please pray for repose of the soul of
Vimie Seymour who passed away on the 24th of December.
Joyce Daly, whose Funeral Mass will be at 12:30pm on Wednesday 8th January at St Thomas Aquinas Church.
Concetta Adorno, whose Funeral Mass will be at 10:00am on Tuesday 14th January at St Thomas Aquinas Church.
We offer our sincere sympathy and the loving support of our faith and prayers to all the recently bereaved.

Bereavement Support Group
Do you miss someone? Would you like to talk about it? Our Parish Bereavement Group gives you the safe space to share your grief following the loss of a loved one. We listen and talk about those who are gone and reflect on our faith to guide us through. Monday 13th January, 3.30-5:00 pm
Now at a change of venue:
St Thomas Aquinas Church Meeting Room (MK2 2JE)

Christmas Crib Appeal
Throughout Christmastide we invite you to make a donation at the Christmas Crib to help the children’s arm of Missio (called “Mission Together”) in support of some of the world’s most deprived children. Your support this Christmas will help many children across the world to:
~ Hear the story of Jesus and see His love for them
~ Benefit from a healthy meal
~ Receive an education, a home and safety.

May all children
In all the world
Share love
Share friendship and live
In the peace
Of God’s love
Now and forever
Amen

Parish Office Holiday Closure
The Parish Office will re-open on the 6th January.

Clergy Post-Christmas Leave
Fr Christopher is away visiting his parents in Cornwall until Saturday 11th January. In his absence please direct all clergy matters to Fr Emmanuel.

Recycling – Refuse Sacks
As a Parish we are very conscious of the moral and ethical imperative to recycle as much as we can and to avoid unnecessary waste ending up in landfill. We have over the years had a steady supply of re-cycling sacks from Milton Keynes Council, however this supply is drying up and recycling sacks are no longer issued by the council to Churches. On average we use around 10 sacks per week so we need your help. If you have any surplus rolls of recycling sacks could you bring them to church and leave them in the sacristy. Together we can therefore ensure that we are able to recycle as much as we can.

New Year’s Resolution:
Make a Difference Through CAFOD
Try something that is calorie-free and life giving. We really need people who are interested to go into our Catholic schools and inspire students to act on their sense of justice. You don’t have to be a teacher to do this role, only a passion for CAFOD’s work and an ability to communicate well with children and young people. If you are good at motivating others we have the ideal role for you – inspiring other volunteers in nearby parishes.Also, we would love to share more of the great acts of love carried out by our parishes and schools via media.So if you are able to help promote our work in this way, we would love to hear from you. All necessary training, travel expenses and resources will be provided. To get in touch: northampton@cafod.org.uk or 01494 863 777.

Catholic Basics
Part I “God” on Jan 25th 2020 at the Diocesan Centre, Luton, LU4 8JD. Come and join us from 10am to 3pm (arr. 9.30 for refreshments) for an engaging and informative day. Course pack and sandwich lunch provided in £15 cost. This is the second year of this successful course. For details and booking: Tel 01582 23312 or admin@nores.org.uk.

With every blessing for the week ahead
Fr Christopher & Fr Emmanuel

This Week’s Liturgies
Sunday: Feast of the Holy Family
Pastoral Letter from Bishop Peter
to be read at all Masses
6:00pm (Sat) (STA) Vigil Mass
7:30am (STA) Mass
9:00am (AS) Mass
11:00am (AS) Mass
6:30pm (AS) Mass

Monday Feast: St Thomas Becket
Secondary Patron of the Diocese of Northampton
9:30am (STA) Holy Rosary
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration
Tuesday Seventh Day of the Christmas Octave
9:30am (AS) Holy Rosary
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Adoration
Wednesday Solemnity: Mary Mother of God
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Rosary
Thursday Memoria: SS Basil & Gregory
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Rosary and D.M Chaplet
Friday Memoria: The Most Holy Name of Jesus
10:00am (STA) Mass
Saturday Feria
9:30am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration & Rosary
10:00-10:30am (STA) CONFESSIONS

STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Avenue, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Road, MK3 6HG

Pope Francis’ Prayer Intentions for December: The Future of the Very Young
That every country take the measures necessary to prioritize the future of the very young, especially those who are suffering.

Pastoral Letter from Bishop Peter
For the Feast of the Holy Family Bishop Peter has written a Pastoral letter to all the Schools and Parishes of our Diocese which will be read out at Masses this weekend.

Christmas Crib Appeal 2019
Throughout Christmastide we invite you to make a donation at the Christmas Crib to help the children’s arm of Missio (called “Mission Together”) in support of some of the world’s most deprived children. Your support this Christmas will help many children across the world to:
~ Hear the story of Jesus and see His love for them
~ Benefit from a healthy meal
~ Receive an education, a home and safety.

May all children
In all the world
Share love
Share friendship and live
In the peace
Of God’s love
Now and forever
Amen

Requiescant in Pace
Please pray for repose of the soul of

Isobel McCann, whose Funeral Service will be at 10:45am on Monday 30th December at Crownhill Crematorium.
Flory Rodricks, whose Funeral Service will be at 11:30am on Thursday 2nd January at All Saints Church
Joyce Daly, whose Funeral Mass will be at 12:30pm on Wednesday 8th January at St Thomas Aquinas Church.
We offer our sincere sympathy and the loving support of our faith and prayers to all the recently bereaved.

Christmas Collections – Gifts to your Priests
Many thanks for your kindness and generosity once again towards Fr Emmanuel and myself, in the form of the Christmas Offering. Fr Emmanuel and I divide the money, which you kindly give us, 50:50 which provides us with a modest income until Easter.

Divine Mercy Devotions & Eucharistic Adoration
Next Sunday: 5th January
3pm at All Saints Church, everyone very welcome!

Advance Notice – Change of Mass Time
After a number of requests were made and consultation sought the 8:30am Mass on Fridays at St Thomas Aquinas Church is going to be moved to the later time of 10:00am. This will take effect from Friday 3rd January 2020. The hope is that more people will be able to attend at a time that many consider to be more convenient.

Parish Statistics 2019
Average Sunday Mass Attendance
6pm Vigil (St Thomas Aquinas Church): 180
7:30am (St Thomas Aquinas Church): 79
9:00am (All Saints Church): 229
11:00am (All Saints Church): 296
6:30pm (All Saints Church): 165
Average Sunday Total: 949
Baptisms: 43
First Holy Communions: 71
Confirmations: 34
Weddings: 9
Funerals: 36

Prophets: Messengers of God’s Mercy
Starting in January 2020 a ten-part Bible study, in which you will discover how God is constantly calling us to a deeper relationship with him as well as the ways we are called to be the voice of God to others. We will come to know the prophets and their messages will shed light on our faith and our lives. The group will meet on: Friday evenings after the 7pm Mass at St Augustine’s Church, Heelands, MK13 7PL. A book will need to be purchased before the start of the course.
For further details please contact Christine Scotcher on
01908 318079 or email:bibletimeline2018 @gmail.com

Parish Office Holiday Closure
The Parish Office will re-open on the 6th January.

Clergy Post-Christmas Leave
Fr Christopher is away visiting his parents in Cornwall until Saturday 11th January. In his absence please direct all clergy matters to Fr Emmanuel.

May the Holy Family pray for our families and inspire us to persevere in faith
We pray that you and your families will have a peaceful and Holy Christmastide and a joyful New year.
Fr Christopher & Fr Emmanuel

This Week’s Liturgies

Wednesday Solemnity:
The Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ
8:00am (STA) Mass of Christmas
9:00am (AS) Mass of Christmas
10:00am (STA) Mass of Christmas
11:00am (AS) Mass of Christmas

Thursday Feast: St Stephen, protomartyr
12:00pm (STA) Mass
Presentation of St Stephen’s Guild Bronze and Silver Medals to Altar Servers

Friday Feast: St John the Evangelist
8:30am (STA) Mass

Saturday Feast: The Holy Innocents
9:30am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration & Rosary
10:00-10:30am (STA) CONFESSIONS
1:00pm (STA) Wedding of Jordan Taylor
and Kathryn Lawrence

Sunday Feast of the Holy Family
Pastoral Letter from Bishop Peter
to be read at all Masses

6:00pm (Sat) (STA) Vigil Mass
7:30am (STA) Mass
9:00am (AS) Mass
11:00am (AS) Mass
6:30pm (AS) Mass

STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Avenue, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Road, MK3 6HG

Pope Francis’ Prayer Intentions for December: The Future of the Very Young
That every country take the measures necessary to prioritize the future of the very young, especially those who are suffering.

Christmas Liturgies
Christmas Eve – 24th December
10am am MASS of the Day (not Christmas)
St Thomas Aquinas Church

10. 30 – 11 am Confessions
    St Thomas Aquinas Church

4.30 pm Children’s MASS of Christmas
All Saints Church

9.30pm Carols and 10pm Vigil MASS of Christmas
All Saints Church

12 Christmas Midnight MASS
St Thomas Aquinas Church

Christmas Day – 25th December
8 am MASS of Christmas
St Thomas Aquinas Church

10am MASS of Christmas
St Thomas Aquinas Church

9.00 am & 11.00 am
MASS of Christmas
All Saints Church

St Stephen’s Day – 26th December
12 Noon Mass – St Thomas Aquinas Church

All our Altar Servers are encouraged to attend this Mass of the Patron of the Servers Guild. If you have been serving regularly for at least a year and are due your bronze medal, please speak to Fr Christopher or Mr Bernard Guina

Christmas Crib Appeal 2019
Throughout Christmastide we invite you to make a donation at the Christmas Crib to help the children’s arm of Missio (called “Mission Together”) in support of some of the world’s most deprived children. Your support this Christmas will help many children across the world to:
~ Hear the story of Jesus and see His love for them
~ Benefit from a healthy meal
~ Receive an education, a home and safety.

May all children
In all the world
Share love
Share friendship and live
In the peace
Of God’s love
Now and forever
Amen

Christmas Collections – Gifts to your Priests
Many thanks for your kindness and generosity once again towards Fr Emmanuel and myself, in the form of the Christmas Offering. Fr Emmanuel and I divide the money, which you kindly give us, 50:50 which provides us with a modest income until Easter.

Requiescant in Pace
Please pray for repose of the soul of

Isobel McCann, whose Funeral Service will be at 10:45am on Monday 30th December at Crownhill Crematorium.

Flory Rodricks, whose Funeral Service will be at 11:30am on Thursday 2nd January at All Saints Church

Joyce Daly, whose Funeral Mass will be at 12:30pm on Wednesday 8th January at St Thomas Aquinas Church.

We offer our sincere sympathy and the loving support of our faith and prayers to all the recently bereaved

Advance Notice
After a number of requests were made and consultation sought the 8:30am Mass on Fridays at St Thomas Aquinas Church is going to be moved to the later time of 10:00am. This will take effect from Friday 3rd January 2020. The hope is that more people will be able to attend at a time that many consider to be more convenient.

Ad
Parish Statistics 2019
Average Sunday Mass Attendance
6pm Vigil (St Thomas Aquinas Church): 180
7:30am (St Thomas Aquinas Church): 79
9:00am (All Saints Church): 229
11:00am (All Saints Church): 296
6:30pm (All Saints Church): 165

Average Sunday Total: 949

Baptisms: 43
First Holy Communions: 71
Confirmations: 34
Weddings: 9
Funerals: 36

Prophets: Messengers of God’s Mercy
Starting in January 2020 a ten-part Bible study, in which you will discover how God is constantly calling us to a deeper relationship with him as well as the ways we are called to be the voice of God to others. We will come to know the prophets and their messages will shed light on our faith and our lives. The group will meet on: Friday evenings after the 7pm Mass at St Augustine’s Church, Heelands, MK13 7PL. A book will need to be purchased before the start of the course.
For further details please contact Christine Scotcher on
01908 318079 or email:bibletimeline2018 @gmail.com

Parish Office Holiday Closure
The Parish Office will be closed from 24th December and will re-open on the 6th January. The clergy will still be available for urgent matters.

We pray that you and your families will have a peaceful and Holy Christmas
Fr Christopher & Fr Emmanuel

This Week’s Liturgies
Sunday Fourth Sunday of Advent

6:00pm (Sat) (STA) Vigil Mass
7:30am (STA) Mass
9:00am (AS) Mass
11:00am (AS) Mass
6:30pm (AS) Mass

Monday Feria – O Emmanuel
9:30am (AS) Funeral Service of Sandra Brimson
9:30am (STA) Holy Rosary
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration

Tuesday Feria / Christmas Eve
10:00am (STA) Mass of Advent
4:30pm (AS) Children’s Mass of Christmas
9:30pm (AS) Carols
10:00pm (AS) Vigil Mass of Christmas
12:00am (STA) Christmas Midnight Mass

Wednesday Solemnity:
THE NATIVITY OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST
8:00am (STA) Mass of Christmas
9:00am (AS) Mass of Christmas
10:00am (STA) Mass of Christmas
11:00am (AS) Mass of Christmas

Thursday Feast: St Stephen, protomartyr
12:00pm (STA) Mass
Presentation of St Stephen’s Guild Bronze and Silver Medals to Altar Servers

Friday Feast: St John the Evangelist
8:30am (STA) Mass

Saturday Feast: The Holy Innocents
9:30am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration & Rosary
10:00-10:30am (STA) CONFESSIONS
1:00pm (STA) Wedding of Jordan Taylor
and Kathryn Lawrence

STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Avenue, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Road, MK3 6HG

THE SEASON OF ADVENT
A time of expectant waiting and preparation for the return of Jesus at the end of time.

Pope Francis’ Prayer Intentions for December: The Future of the Very Young
That every country take the measures necessary to prioritize the future of the very young, especially those who are suffering.

Spend time with The Lord this Advent!
Advent Holy Hour -a time for quiet reflection and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. An opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession):
7pm-8pm Monday 23rd December at All Saints Church

Requiescant in Pace
Please pray for repose of the soul of
Sandra Brimson, whose Funeral Service will be at 9:30am on Monday 23rd December at All Saints Church.

Isobel McCann, whose Funeral Service will be at 10:45am on Monday 30th January at Crownhill Crematorium.

Flory Rodricks, whose Funeral Service will be at 11:30am on Thursday 2nd January at All Saints Church

Joyce Daly, whose Funeral Mass will be at 12:30pm on Wednesday 8th January at St Thomas Aquinas Church.

We offer our sincere sympathy and the loving support of our faith and prayers to all the recently bereaved

The Giving Tree
Please take a tag from the Christmas Tree in church and buy a present for someone extra this year. Wrap it (if the item is not food), label it and return it under the tree. Your gift will be gratefully received by someone in need locally or overseas.

The Seniors’ Christmas Party will be taking place on 11th January at West Bletchley Community Centre. If you would like to go please complete one of the invitations held in the scarcity and place in the box next to them. Please note that this is the final week to show an interest in attending.
If you have any questions regarding the party contact John or Mary on 01908 377767

Children’s Nativity
This is a message for anyone in years 3,4,5 or 6 at primary school. Would like to be a reader at the Children’s Christmas Mass at 4.30pm Christmas Eve at All Saints?
If you would, please come for a rehearsal this afternoon at 2.30 at All Saints. (The actors will arrive about 3pm)

Christmas Liturgies
Christmas Eve – 24th December
10am am MASS of the Day (not Christmas)
St Thomas Aquinas Church

10. 30 – 11 am Confessions
    St Thomas Aquinas Church

4.30 pm Children’s MASS of Christmas
All Saints Church

9.30pm Carols and 10pm Vigil MASS of Christmas
All Saints Church

12 Christmas Midnight MASS
St Thomas Aquinas Church

Christmas Day – 25th December
8 am MASS of Christmas
St Thomas Aquinas Church

10am MASS of Christmas
St Thomas Aquinas Church

9.00 am & 11.00 am
MASS of Christmas
All Saints Church

St Stephen’s Day – 26th December
12 Noon Mass – St Thomas Aquinas Church

All our Altar Servers are encouraged to attend this Mass of the Patron of the Servers Guild. If you have been serving regularly for at least a year and are due your bronze medal, please speak to Fr Christopher or Mr Bernard Guina.

Can you help!
Parish Readers and Extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion are needed for our Christmas Liturgies. There are sign up sheets for each Mass of Christmas at the back of Church.

Prophets: Messengers of God’s Mercy
Starting in January 2020 a ten-part Bible study, in which you will discover how God is constantly calling us to a deeper relationship with him as well as the ways we are called to be the voice of God to others. We will come to know the prophets and their messages will shed light on our faith and our lives. The group will meet on: Friday evenings after the 7pm Mass at St Augustine’s Church, Heelands, MK13 7PL. A book will need to be purchased before the start of the course.
For further details please contact Christine Scotcher on
01908 318079 or email:bibletimeline2018 @gmail.com

Christmas Collections – Gifts to your Priests
Many thanks for your kindness and generosity once again towards Fr Emmanuel and myself, in the form of the Christmas Offering. Fr Emmanuel and I divide the money, which you kindly give us, 50:50 which provides us with a modest income until Easter.

Advance Notice
After a number of requests were made and consultation sought the 8:30am Mass on Fridays at St Thomas Aquinas Church is going to be moved to the later time of 10:00am. This will take effect from Friday 3rd January 2020. The hope is that more people will be able to attend at a time that many consider to be more convenient.

Parish Office Holiday Closure
The Parish Office will be closed from 24th December and will re-open on the 6th January. The clergy will still be available for urgent matters.

We pray that you and your families will have a peaceful and Holy Christmas
Fr Christopher & Fr Emmanuel

This Week’s Liturgies
Sunday Third Sunday of Advent – Gaudete

6:00pm (Sat) (STA) Vigil Mass
7:30am (STA) Mass
9:00am (AS) Mass
11:00am (AS) Mass
6:30pm (AS) Mass

Monday Feria
9:30am (STA) Holy Rosary
10:00am (STA) Mass NB: No Adoration Today
11:30am (STA) Funeral Mass for Mrs Toni Rampello
7:00pm (STA) Adoration and Confessions

Tuesday Feria – O Wisdom
9:30am (AS) Holy Rosary
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Adoration

Wednesday Feria – O Adonai
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Rosary

Thursday Feria – O Root of Jesse
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Rosary and D.M Chaplet

Friday Feria – O key of David
8:30am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration and Rosary
7:00pm (AS) Word of Life Ministry
Mass, Sacred Teaching, Adoration

Saturday Feria – O Rising Sun
9:30am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration & Rosary
10:00-10:30am (STA) CONFESSIONS

STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Avenue, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Road, MK3 6HG

Pope Francis’ Prayer Intentions for December: The Future of the Very Young
That every country take the measures necessary to prioritize the future of the very young, especially those who are suffering.

Spend time with The Lord this Advent!
Advent Holy Hour -a time for quiet reflection and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. An opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession):
7pm-8pm Monday 16th December at St Thomas Aquinas Church
7pm-8pm Monday 23rd December at All Saints Church

This Weekend: Second Collection for Church Flowers

Requiescant in Pace
Please pray for repose of the soul of
Antonietta Rampello, whose Funeral Mass will be at 11:30am on Monday 16th December at St Thomas Aquinas Church.

Joyce Daly, whose Funeral Mass will be at 12:30pm on Wednesday 8th January at St Thomas Aquinas Church.

We offer our sincere sympathy and the loving support of our faith and prayers to all the recently bereaved

The Giving Tree
Please take a tag from the Christmas Tree in church and buy a present for someone extra this year. Wrap it (if the item is not food), label it and return it under the tree. Your gift will be gratefully received by
someone in need locally or overseas.

The Word of Life Team…
You are cordially invited to our Word of Life teaching and prayer ministry on Friday 20th December 2019 and every 3rd Friday of the month, at All Saints Church.

*Featuring: Mass and Teaching; Adoration;
Worship/Praises and Prayers

*Time: 7:00pm to 9:00pm.

*Venue: All Saints Church, Shenley Road,
Bletchley, (Milton Keynes) MK3 6HG.

Come and enjoy the glory, beauty and power of His presence. Everything you need is with Jesus.
Come with your family and invite your friends.

Phoenix Youth Group
Tuesday 17th December, 7:30pm – 9pm
St Thomas Aquinas Church Meeting room (MK2 2JE)
For young people in the Parish in school years 7-11Come along for Pizza, games and an opportunity to share and reflect on our Catholic faith.

The Seniors’ Christmas Party will be on Saturday 11th January at West Bletchley Community Centre, from 2pm till 6pm. If you would like to attend please complete one of the invites and place it in the box which you can find in the Sacristy. Completed forms should be received by Sunday 22nd December. Please note places are limited and are filled on a first come first serve basis. For any further information please contact John or Mary on 01908 377767

Would you like to be an Altar Server?
If you have made your First Holy Communion and attend Mass each week and would like to be part of our serving team then please come along our training session:
Sunday 15th December after 11:00am Mass at All Saints Church. Please note that training takes places at All Saints Church even if you normally attend St Thomas Aquinas Church.

Christmas Liturgies:
Christmas Eve – 24th December
10am am MASS of the Day (not Christmas)
St Thomas Aquinas Church

10. 30 – 11 am Confessions
    St Thomas Aquinas Church

4.30 pm Children’s MASS of Christmas
All Saints Church

9.30pm Carols and 10pm Vigil MASS of Christmas
All Saints Church

12 Christmas Midnight MASS
St Thomas Aquinas Church

Christmas Day – 25th December
8 am MASS of Christmas
St Thomas Aquinas Church

10am MASS of Christmas
St Thomas Aquinas Church

9.00 am & 11.00 am
MASS of Christmas
All Saints Church

St Stephen’s Day – 26th December
12 Noon Mass – St Thomas Aquinas Church

Prophets: Messengers of God’s Mercy
Starting in January 2020 a ten-part Bible study, in which you will discover how God is constantly calling us to a deeper relationship with him as well as the ways we are called to be the voice of God to others. We will come to know the prophets and their messages will shed light on our faith and our lives. The group will meet on:
Friday evenings after the 7pm Mass at St Augustine’s Church, Heelands, MK13 7PL.
A book will need to be purchased before the start of the course.
For further details please contact Christine Scotcher on
01908 318079 or email:bibletimeline2018 @gmail.com

Thank you from Bedford
Fr Wayne and the Parishioners of Ss Philip & James Parish, Bedford extend a special thank you to the support and participation of Bletchley Parishioners at the Fatima Day a week ago on Saturday. It was a prayerful and Holy occasion.

With every blessing for the week ahead
Fr Christopher & Fr Emmanuel

This Week’s Liturgies
Sunday Second Sunday of Advent

6:00pm (Sat) (STA) Vigil Mass
7:30am (STA) Mass
9:00am (AS) Mass
11:00am (AS) Mass
6:30pm (AS) Mass

Monday Solemnity: Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Chief Patron of the Diocese of Northampton
(Transferred from 8th December)
9:30am (STA) Holy Rosary
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration

Tuesday Feria
9:30am (AS) Holy Rosary
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Adoration

Wednesday Feria
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Rosary

Thursday Feria
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Rosary and D.M Chaplet

Friday Memoria: St Lucy
8:30am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration and Rosary
7:00pm (STA) Advent Reflection, Adoration and Evening Prayer

Saturday Memoria: St John of the Cross
9:30am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration & Rosary
10:00-10:30am (STA) CONFESSIONS

STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Avenue, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Road, MK3 6HG

Pope Francis’ Prayer Intentions for December: The Future of the Very Young
That every country take the measures necessary to prioritize the future of the very young, especially those who are suffering.

Spend time with The Lord this Advent!
Advent Holy Hour -a time for quiet reflection and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. An opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession):
7pm-8pm Monday 16th December at St Thomas Aquinas Church
7pm-8pm Monday 23rd December at All Saints Church

Advent Evening Reflection
Advent talk & meditation, Adoration and Evening Prayer
Friday 13th December 7pm – St Thomas Aquinas Church

Next Weekend: Second Collection for Church Flowers

The Giving Tree
Please take a tag from the Christmas Tree in church and buy a present for someone extra this year. Wrap it (if the item is not food), label it and return it under the tree. Your gift will be gratefully received by someone locally or overseas.

Bereavement Support Group
Do you miss someone? Would you like to talk about it? Our Parish Bereavement Group gives you the safe space to share your grief following the loss of a loved one. We listen and talk about those who are gone and reflect on our faith to guide us through. Monday 9th December, 3.30-5:00 pm
Now at a change of venue:
St Thomas Aquinas Church Meeting Room (MK2 2JE)

The Word of Life Team…
You are cordially invited to our Word of Life teaching and prayer ministry on Friday 20th December 2019 and every 3rd Friday of the month, at All Saints Church.

*Featuring: Mass and Teaching; Adoration;
Worship/Praises and Prayers

*Time: 7:00pm to 9:00pm.

*Venue: All Saints Church, Shenley Road,
Bletchley, (Milton Keynes) MK3 6HG.

Come and enjoy the glory, beauty and power of His presence. Everything you need is with Jesus.
Come with your family and invite your friends.

Love and Mercy: Faustina: The Odeon at MK Stadium
Back by popular demand at the Odeon Cinema in Bletchley on Tuesday 10th December 2019, 8:20pm. This is a docudrama on Divine Mercy and the mission of Sr Faustina following the apparitations of Jesus.

Parish Grand Prize Draw Winners
Ist Prize £250 – L. Davis; 2nd Prize £100 – R. Garcia;
3rd Prize £50 – D. Healy; 4th Prize Festive Hamper – R. Garcia; 5th Prize Case of Wine – J. Hevey

Invitation to our Senior Citizens St Thomas Aquinas School welcomes you to our Christmas performance of ‘Superstar’ where there will be a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine for all. Doors will open at 12.30pm on Friday 13th December and entrance is by ticket only. The cost of each ticket is £1.00. Please call the school office on 01908 373977 to reserve your ticket.

The Seniors’ Christmas Party will be on Saturday 11th January at West Bletchley Community Centre, from 2pm till 6pm. If you would like to attend please complete one of the invites and place it in the box which you can find in the Sacristy. Completed forms should be received by Sunday 22nd December. Please note places are limited and are filled on a first come first serve basis. For any further information please contact John or Mary on 01908 377767

Would you like to be an Altar Server?
If you have made your First Holy Communion and attend Mass each week and would like to be part of our serving team then please come along to one of our training sessions:
Saturday 14th, 10:30am at All Saints or
Sunday 15th December after 11:00am Mass at All Saints Church. Please note that training takes places at All Saints Church even if you normally attend St Thomas Aquinas Church.

Christmas Liturgies
Christmas Eve – 24th December
10am am MASS of the Day (not Christmas)
St Thomas Aquinas Church

10. 30 – 11 am Confessions
    St Thomas Aquinas Church

4.30 pm Children’s MASS of Christmas
All Saints Church

9.30pm Carols and 10pm Vigil MASS of Christmas
All Saints Church

12 Christmas Midnight MASS
St Thomas Aquinas Church

Christmas Day – 25th December
8 am MASS of Christmas
St Thomas Aquinas Church

10am MASS of Christmas
St Thomas Aquinas Church

9.00 am & 11.00 am
MASS of Christmas
All Saints Church

St Stephen’s Day – 26th December
12 Noon Mass – St Thomas Aquinas Church

Message from CAFOD: for those who were not able to attend the Creation Celebration Mass on Friday there is still an opportunity to sign a petition to the Prime Minister to support a net zero emissions target by 2045. This is a great opportunity to rewrite the future of our common home. The petition is available at the back of the church.

With every blessing for the week ahead
Fr Christopher & Fr Emmanuel

This Week’s Liturgies
Sunday First Sunday of Advent

6:00pm (Sat) (STA) Vigil Mass
7:30am (STA) Mass
9:00am (AS) Mass
11:00am (AS) Mass
6:30pm (AS) Mass

Monday Feria
9:30am (STA) Holy Rosary
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration

Tuesday Memoria: St Francis Xavier
9:30am (AS) Holy Rosary
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Adoration

Wednesday Feria
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Rosary
1:15pm (STA) Funeral Mass of John Burgess

Thursday Feria
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Rosary and D.M Chaplet

Friday Feria
8:30am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration and Rosary
9:45am (AS) Funeral Mass for Harriet Kent
7:30pm (STA) Mass to celebrate God’s gift of Creation

Saturday Memoria: St Ambrose
9:30am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration & Rosary
10:00-10:30am (STA) CONFESSIONS

STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Avenue, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Road, MK3 6HG

Advance Notice – Christmas Liturgies

Christmas Eve – 24th December:
(AS) 4.30 pm Children’s MASS of Christmas
(AS) 9.30pm Carols and 10pm Vigil MASS of Christmas
(STA) 12:00am Christmas Midnight MASS

Christmas Day – 25th December:
(STA) 8:00am MASS of Christmas
(AS) 9.00am MASS of Christmas
(STA) 10:00am MASS of Christmas
(STA) 11:00am MASS of Christmas

STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Avenue, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Road, MK3 6HG

Pope Francis’ Prayer Intentions for December: The Future of the Very Young
That every country take the measures necessary to prioritize the future of the very young, especially those who are suffering.

Welcome again to Bishop Peter
Bishop Peter will celebrate and preach at the 6pm Vigil Mass at St Thomas Aquinas Church this weekend as he completes his Pastoral Visitation of the parish. Refreshments are served in the meeting room after Mass so you can have an opportunity to talk with him.

Pastoral Letter
Bishop Peter has prepared an Advent pastoral letter which will be read out at all the Sunday Masses in the Parish

Requiescant in Pace
Please pray for repose of the soul of
John Burgess, whose Funeral Mass will be at 1:15pm on Wednesday 4th December at St Thomas Aquinas Church.

Harriet Kent, whose Funeral Mass will be at 9:45am on Friday 6th December at All Saints Church.

We offer our sincere sympathy and the loving support of our faith and prayers to all the recently bereaved.

Second Collection This Week:
Aid to the Church in Need: A Pontifical Foundation of the Catholic Church, supporting the Catholic faithful and other Christians where they are persecuted, oppressed or in pastoral need. Each year ACN fund over 5,000 projects in more than 140 countries around world, helping to support the Church in its mission, and bringing hope and solidarity to millions of people. From priests to catechists and seminarians to Sisters, you enable us to help persecuted and suffering Christians live out their faith.

Divine Mercy Devotions Today
3pm at All Saints Church, everyone very welcome!

Bereavement Support Group
Do you miss someone? Would you like to talk about it? Our Parish Bereavement Group gives you the safe space to share your grief following the loss of a loved one. We listen and talk about those who are gone and reflect on our faith to guide us through. Monday 9th December, 3.30-5:00 pm
Now at a change of venue:
St Thomas Aquinas Church Meeting Room (MK2 2JE)

Our Lady of Fatima Comes to Bedford
The Statue of our Lady of Fatima and the relics of St Jacinta and St Francisco will be visiting the Church of St Phillip and St James, Bedford MK41 7BX on Saturday 7th December 9am-4pm. For further information please visit http://www.worldfatima- englandwales.org.uk or see the poster at the back of Church.

Mass to thank God for the gift of Creation! Please join us for a Creation Celebration Mass on Friday 6th December at 7.30pm at St Thomas Aquinas Church to give thanks for the gift of God’s creation. Light refreshments after Mass.

Spend time with The Lord this Advent!
Advent Holy Hour -a time for quiet reflection and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. An opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession):
7pm-8pm Monday 16th December at St Thomas Aquinas Church
7pm-8pm Monday 23rd December at All Saints Church

2021 Catholic Primary School Admissions
If you will be applying for a Catholic Primary School place in 2021 you will need to obtain a “Certificate of Catholic Practice” to support your application. Certificates are issued to all those who complete a Parish 2020 Diary which is stamped at the beginning and end of Sunday Mass as a record of your child’s attendance. There is a meeting for interested parents on Monday 2rd December, 7pm at St Thomas Aquinas Church (MK2 2JE), where you will able to register and collect a diary.

Invitation to our Senior Citizens St Thomas Aquinas School welcomes you to our Christmas performance of ‘Superstar’ where there will be a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine for all. Doors will open at 12.30pm on Friday 13th December and entrance is by ticket only. The cost of each ticket is £1.00. Please call the school office on 01908 373977 to reserve your ticket.

The Seniors’ Christmas Party will be on Saturday 11th January at West Bletchley Community Centre, from 2pm till 6pm. If you would like to attend please complete one of the invites and place it in the box which you can find in the Sacristy. Completed forms should be received by Sunday 22nd December. Please note places are limited and are filled on a first come first serve basis. For any further information please contact John or Mary on 01908 377767

Safeguarding Update – Educare
Did you know that the diocese provides free e-learning safeguarding training? You can access the training online, on a variety of subjects, at a time and place to suit you. If you are interested, please email: SafeguardingAdmin@northamptondiocese.com to register your interest. Please give your name, email address, the name of your parish and your role, which can include parent/grandparent. On receipt of the information the safeguarding administrator will register you with Educare, who will contact you directly with a welcome email and your password,

A message from CAFOD: Why should we get involved in the 2019 general election? As Catholics, Pope Francis reminds us that we have a shared responsibility for our neighbours and the world and calls us to join a new dialogue about the future.. For more information on questions to ask candidates please go to http://www.cafod.org.uk/election

Thank you to all who helped and supported our Parish Fayre this weekend. It was a happy and sociable occasion and has helped to generate much needed funds for the Parish

With every blessing for the week ahead
Fr Christopher & Fr Emmanuel

This Week’s Liturgies
Sunday Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ,
Universal King

6:00pm (Sat) (STA) Vigil Mass
7:30am (STA) Mass
9:00am (AS) Mass
11:00am (AS) Mass
6:30pm (AS) Mass

Monday Feria
9:30am (STA) Holy Rosary
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration
12:00pm (STA) Funeral Mass of Michele Pozzuto
6:30pm (STA) Reconciliation Service for Parents of First Holy Communion Children.

Tuesday Feria
9:30am (AS) Holy Rosary
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Adoration
3.00pm (STA) Dementia Mass

Wednesday Feria
10:00am (STA) Mass followed by Rosary

Thursday Feria
10:00am (AS) Mass followed by Rosary and D.M Chaplet

Friday Feria
8:30am (STA) Mass followed by Rosary and D.M Chaplet

Saturday Feast: St Andrew the Apostle
9:30am (STA) Mass followed by Adoration & Rosary
10:00-10:30am (STA) CONFESSIONS

STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Avenue, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Road, MK3 6HG

Pope Francis’ Prayer Intentions for November: Dialogue and Reconciliation in the Near East: That a spirit of dialogue, encounter, and reconciliation emerge in the Near East, where diverse religious communities share their lives together.

Dementia Mass

Tuesday 26th November 2019 at 3pm St Thomas Aquinas Church followed by refreshments. All welcome

Requiescat in Pace
Please pray for repose of the soul of
Michele Pozzuto, whose Funeral Mass will be at 12noon on Monday 25th November at St Thomas Aquinas Church.

We offer our sincere sympathy and the loving support of our faith and prayers to all the recently bereaved.

Retiring Collection Today:
Society of St Vincent de Paul

Second Collection Next Week:
Aid to the Church in Need: A Pontifical Foundation of the Catholic Church, supporting the Catholic faithful and other Christians where they are persecuted, oppressed or in pastoral need. Each year ACN fund over 5,000 projects in more than 140 countries around world, helping to support the Church in its mission, and bringing hope and solidarity to millions of people. From priests to catechists and seminarians to Sisters, you enable us to help persecuted and suffering Christians live out their faith.

Our Parish Fayre:
Saturday 30th November at St Thomas Aquinas School between 12-2pm.

Games, Stalls, Prizes, Refreshments
Fun for all the family

Invitation to the Young People in our Parish
If you are in School Years 7-11 we would like to invite you to the re launch of PHOENIX- our youth group for pupils at secondary school.

We know the challenges young people face and want to support you as you grow in faith. We want to offer you the chance to meet, socialise and explore your faith with other young people who belong to our parish. Perhaps they are friends you see at Mass or maybe they go to a different Mass to you? Maybe you used to go to school together but now go to different schools? Why not take this opportunity to meet up with friends and make new ones? We plan to meet on the following Tuesday dates from 7.30 pm-9pm in the parish meeting room at St Thomas Aquinas Church: November 26th, December 17th, January 28th,
February 25th, March 31st, April 28th,
May 19th, June 30th.

Our Lady of Fatima
The Statue of our Lady of Fatima and the relics of St Jacinta and St Francisco will be visiting the Church of St Phillip and St James, Bedford MK41 7BX on Saturday 7th December 9am-4pm. For further information please visit http://www.worldfatima- englandwales.org.uk or see the poster at the back of Church.

A Date for Your Diary – Please join us for a Creation Celebration Mass on Friday 6th December at 7.30pm at St Thomas Aquinas Church to give thanks for the gift of God’s creation. Light refreshments after Mass.

School Admissions – Parish Diaries
2020 Catholic Primary School Admissions:
Completed 2019 diaries will be collected in this weekend after the 6pm Vigil; 9am &11am Masses
We will inform you by email if a “Certificate of Catholic Practice” has been issued. Please ensure that you collect and complete all the necessary supplementary forms when applying for a school place which can be obtained from School Reception.

2021 Catholic Primary School Admissions
If you will be applying for a Catholic Primary School place in 2021 you will need to obtain a “Certificate of Catholic Practice” to support your application. Certificates are is sued to all those who complete a Parish 2020 Diary which is stamped at the beginning and end of Sunday Mass as a record of your child’s attendance. There is a meeting for interested parents on Monday 2rd December, 7pm at St Thomas Aquinas Church (MK2 2JE), where you will able to register and collect a diary.

Invitation to our Senior Citizens St Thomas Aquinas School welcomes you to our Christmas performance of ‘Superstar’ where there will be a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine for all. Doors will open at 12.30pm on Friday 13th December and entrance is by ticket only. The cost of each ticket is £1.00. Please call the school office on 01908 373977 to reserve your ticket.

Safeguarding Update – Educare
Did you know that the diocese provides free e-learning safeguarding training? You can access the training online, on a variety of subjects, at a time and place to suit you. If you are interested, please email: SafeguardingAdmin@northamptondiocese.com to register your interest. Please give your name, email address, the name of your parish and your role, which can include parent/grandparent. On receipt of the information the safeguarding administrator will register you with Educare, who will contact you directly with a welcome email and your password,

A message from CAFOD: Why should we get involved in the 2019 general election? As Catholics, Pope Francis reminds us that we have a shared responsibility for our neighbours and the world and calls us to join a new dialogue about the future.. For more information on questions to ask candidates please go to http://www.cafod.org.uk/election

Thank you from Missio: The second collection for World Mission Sunday raised £972 from St Thomas Aquinas and All Saints Parish and is crucial in helping the Church in India and around the world reach out with God’s love. For more information about Missio please visit missio.org.uk.

With every blessing for the week ahead
Fr Christopher & Fr Emmanuel