Bletchley Parish

SERVICES FOR THE WEEK
Psalter – Week 1
6:00pm(Sat) (STA) Vigil Holy Mass
7:30am (STA) Holy Mass
9:00am (AS) Holy Mass
11:00am (AS) Holy Mass
6:30pm (AS) Holy Mass

During the Week
Monday (STA) Memoria – St Agnes
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Adoration
Tuesday (AS) Feria
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Adoration
Wednesday (STA) Feria
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Thursday (AS) Memorial – St Francis de Sales
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Friday (STA) Feast – Conversion of St Paul
8:30am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Saturday (STA) Memoria – Sts Timothy & Titus
9:30am Holy Mass followed by Adoration
10:00-10:30am CONFESSIONS
STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Ave, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Rd, MK3 6HG

POPE FRANCIS’ PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR JANUARY
Evangelization – Young People
That young people, especially in Latin America, follow the example of Mary and respond to the call of the Lord to communicate the joy of the Gospel to the world.

DEMENTIA Friendly MASS
3 pm Tuesday 29th 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.

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.
3.30-5:00 pm All Saints Church Meeting Room
Future Dates: 11th February; 11th March; 8th April; 13th May; 10th June; 8th July.

COMPASS – SPRING 2019
God’s Big Story: “The Drama of Salvation in Six Acts” is being offered by Compass as an 8 week course at Whaddon Way Church, Bletchley on Tuesday evening from 22nd January to 19th March. The course is being presented by Steve Chilcraft.
For more information visit:
http://www.missionpartnership. org.uk/compass.

THE DOWRY TOUR OF OUR LADY OF WALSINGHAM
During the course of 2018 to 2020 the statue of Our Lady of Walsingham from the Slipper Chapel at the Catholic National Shrine and Basilica will be taken to each Cathedral for a three-day triduum of prayer, as part of the preparation for the re-dedication of England as the Dowry of Mary in 2020. The statue will be visiting Northampton Cathedral between 7th and 9th February. This Tour is groundbreaking and is coming at a very important time in our nation’s history. Each visit has Mass – Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament – silence – devotions – powerful intercession – the invocation of the Saints and Martyrs of England and Wales. This is our opportunity to show our own devotion to Our Lady of Walsingham. Please keep the tour in your prayers. “When England returns to Walsingham, Our Lady will return to England” Pope Leo XIII

PARISH PATRONAL SOLEMNITY – Next Sunday
On the Weekend 26th-27th January we, as a Parish family, will be celebrating the Solemnity of
St Thomas Aquinas, priest and Doctor of the Church,
who is the patron saint
of our Parish community.
Readers, please contact the parish office for the readings of that Sunday.

WEDDINGS 2019 – If you are planning to get married during 2019, please contact the Parish Office to make the necessary arrangements. There will be a meeting for all couples getting married this year on Tuesday 29th February at St Thomas Aquinas Church Meeting Room (MK2 2JE) at 8:00pm.

CELEBRATION 2019
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 Friday 23rd August to Monday 26th August. Application forms will be available in late January.

THANK YOU FROM CAFOD – the gift of water – In the arid area of Sebeya (Ethiopia) bringing clean water has been a fantastic achievement. In 2017/18 you helped the people of Sebeya irrigate their farmland by: Drilling a deep well; installing two water pumps with solar generators and providing training to maintain them; Building two irrigation reservoirs with pipelines. 1262 families now have an improved water source under 1.5km away (less than a 30 minute walk). Thank you so much for standing in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Sebeya.

DIVINE MERCY DEVOTIONS 3rd February
3pm at All Saints Church, followed by refreshments
All are very welcome!
CRIB DONATIONS. This year the crib donations raised £800 which will be sent to ‘MISSIO’ (Red Boxes).
Thank you for your kindness and generosity!
CAFOD QUIZ NIGHT 7.30 PM Friday 22nd March
At: The Irish Centre, Fenny Stratford
All Welcome.
Compete for the coveted Parish trophy!

NYMO EVENTS IN 2019
The Northampton Youth Ministry Office (NYMO) offer many opportunities for young people aged 11- 18, as well as young adults up to 30 years old. Here are some details of upcoming events. This is open to everyone and all are extremely welcome:
– LUX Residential Week-end: 1st to 3rd February in Northampton. A mix of fun, games and teaching. Very popular, so book early.
– True Survivor Week-end: 25th to 27th May. For young men aged 14+, this weekend couples survival techniques in the wild with spiritual survival techniques. Cost £100 per person.
– Summer Camp 2019: 4th to 8th August. At the start of the summer holidays, over 100 young people gather together for a mix of outdoor activities, sleeping in a castle, a day out at Alton Tow-ers and daily Mass, talks, music and lots of fun! Cost £200 per per-son (incl. transport).

For further details please visit http://www.nymo.org.

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

SERVICES FOR THE WEEK
The Baptism of the Lord

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

During the Week
Psalter – Week 1
Monday (STA) Feria
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Mass followed by Adoration
Tuesday (AS) Feria
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Mass followed by Adoration
Wednesday (STA) Feria
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Thursday (AS) Memorial – St Anthony Abbot
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Friday (STA) Feria
8:30am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Saturday (STA) Feria
9:30am Holy Mass followed by Adoration
10:00-10:30am CONFESSIONS
STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Ave, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Rd, MK3 6HG

POPE FRANCIS’ PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR JANUARY
Evangelization – Young People
That young people, especially in Latin America, follow the example of Mary and respond to the call of the Lord to communicate the joy of the Gospel to the world.

SECOND COLLECTION TODAY:
Society for the Protection of Unborn Children
(The White Flower Appeal)
S.P.U.C. works throughout the UK to protect unborn babies, and their mothers, from abortion and its devastating consequences.

CRIB DONATIONS – Final Sunday
This year all money raised will be donated to the children’s arm (Mission Together) of ‘MISSIO’ (Red Boxes), SU PPORTING THE Mission of the Church!
Thanks you for your kindness and generosity!

REQUIESCAT IN PACE
Please pray for the soul of

Emanuela Calogera Terrasi, whose Funeral Service will be on Tuesday 15th January, 3:30pm at the Oak Chapel, Crownhill Crematorium

UNWANTED CHRISTMAS GIFTS?
Please put in the Food Bank basket for the next £1 stall.

JOB OPPORTUNITY
Handyman – Milton Keynes Cluster and St Thomas Aquinas and All Saints, Bletchley
– 21 hours per week (flexible)
We have a vacancy for a Handyman to work across the parishes of the Milton Keynes Cluster and St Thomas Aquinas and All Saints. This is a great opportunity to work in a parish environment for someone with experience working in related roles.

Any applicant should have good knowledge of building maintenance and Health and Safety, be practical and adaptable with a can do attitude.

Full information for the position and an application form can be found on the diocesan website http://www.northamptondiocese.org/vacancies.

The closing date for applications will be Friday 18th January 2019 and interviews will be held on Monday 28th January 2019.

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.
3.30-5:00 pm All Saints Church Meeting Room
Future Dates: 14th January; 11th February; 11th March; 8th April; 13th May; 10th June; 8th July.

CATHOLIC BASICS COURSE 31st JANUARY 2019
Want to know more about your Faith? Join us for a basic introduction to the Catholic Faith in four parts: GOD, THE CHURCH, THE MORAL LIFE, PRAYER. For each part there is a day of engaging teaching with opportunities for interaction and discussion. Cost: £25 per person per day (£10 for the unwaged). Price includes a full lunch. No qualifications needed – just interest, good will and a sense of humour!
Launch and Part I: January 31 2019, 10am-3pm
(arr. 9.30am for refreshments).NORES Centre, Holy Ghost Parish, 33 Westbourne Road, Luton, LU4 8JD.
To book, contact: admin@nores.org.uk or phone Jackie on 01582 723312.
OUR LADY OF WALSINGHAM – comes to the Diocese
A date for your 2019 Diary.
Our Diocese of Northampton is the first Diocese in the Dowry Tour of Our Lady of Walsingham in 2019. It will take place from Thursday 7th February to Saturday 9th February, at Northampton Cathedral.
More details to follow.

THANK YOU!
A huge Thank You! To our great team of volunteers who made the Seniors’ Party on Saturday such a wonderful occasion.

COMPASS – SPRING 2019
God’s Big Story: “The Drama of Salvation in Six Acts” is being offered by Compass as an 8 week course at Whaddon Way Church, Bletchley on Tuesday evening from 22nd January to 19th March. The course is being presented by Steve Chilcraft.
For more information visit:
http://www.missionpartnership. org.uk/compass.

CELEBRATION 2019
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 Friday 23rd August to Monday 26th August. Application forms will be available in late January.

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

SERVICES FOR THE WEEK
Psalter – Week of the Epiphany
The Epiphany of the Lord

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

During the Week
Monday (STA) Feria
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Mass followed by Adoration
Tuesday (AS) Feria
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Mass followed by Adoration
Wednesday (STA) Feria
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Thursday (AS) Feria
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Friday (STA) Feria
8:30am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Saturday (STA) Feria
9:30am Holy Mass followed by Adoration
10:00-10:30am CONFESSIONS
STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Ave, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Rd, MK3 6HG

SOLEMNITY OF THE EPIPHANY

POPE FRANCIS’ PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR JANUARY
Evangelization – Young People
That young people, especially in Latin America, follow the example of Mary and respond to the call of the Lord to communicate the joy of the Gospel to the world.

REQUIESCANT IN PACE
Please pray for the soul of
William (Bill) Gilbert, whose Funeral Mass will be on Monday 7th January, 11:30am at St Thomas Aquinas Church. Bill’s Body will be received into the Church at 6pm on Sunday 6th January.

Emanuela Calogera Terrasi, whose Funeral Service will be on Tuesday 15th January, 3:30pm at the Oak Chapel, Crownhill Crematorium

CRIB DONATIONS
This year all money raised will be donated to
‘MISSIO’ (Red Boxes),
SU PPORTING THE Mission of the Church!

UNWANTED CHRISTMAS GIFTS?
Please put in the Food Bank basket for the next £1 stall.

JOB OPPORTUNITY
Handyman – Milton Keynes Cluster and St Thomas Aquinas and All Saints, Bletchley
– 21 hours per week (flexible)
We have a vacancy for a Handyman to work across the parishes of the Milton Keynes Cluster and St Thomas Aquinas and All Saints. This is a great opportunity to work in a parish environment for someone with experience working in related roles.

Any applicant should have good knowledge of building maintenance and Health and Safety, be practical and adaptable with a can do attitude.

Full information for the position and an application form can be found on the diocesan website http://www.northamptondiocese.org/vacancies.

The closing date for applications will be Friday 18th January 2019 and interviews will be held on Monday 28th January 2019.

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.
3.30-5:00 pm All Saints Church Meeting Room
Future Dates: 14th January; 11th February; 11th March; 8th April; 13th May; 10th June; 8th July.

CATHOLIC BASICS COURSE 31st JANUARY 2019
Want to know more about your Faith? Join us for a basic introduction to the Catholic Faith in four parts: GOD, THE CHURCH, THE MORAL LIFE, PRAYER. For each part there is a day of engaging teaching with opportunities for interaction and discussion. Cost: £25 per person per day (£10 for the unwaged). Price includes a full lunch. No qualifications needed – just interest, good will and a sense of humour!
Launch and Part I: January 31 2019, 10am-3pm
(arr. 9.30am for refreshments).NORES Centre, Holy Ghost Parish, 33 Westbourne Road, Luton, LU4 8JD.
To book, contact: admin@nores.org.uk or phone Jackie on 01582 723312.

CHIDREN’S LITURGY TRAINING
Saturday 12th January 2019 10:30am – 1pm
St Augustine’s Church, Heelands,
Milton Keynes (MK13 7PL)
For those who are either new to, or presently working with, Children’s Liturgy in the Parishes.
An opportunity to share good ideas, practice and resources. Please contact Jo at the Parish Office (01908 372315) if you would like to attend.

PARISH STATISTICS 2018
Average Sunday Mass Attendance
6pm Vigil (St Thomas Aquinas Church): 171
7:30am (St Thomas Aquinas Church): 86
9:00am (All Saints Church): 185
11:00am (All Saints Church): 341
6:30pm (All Saints Church): 145

Baptisms: 56
First Holy Communions: 93
Confirmations: 31

Weddings: 10
Funerals: 47
With every blessing for the week ahead
Fr Christopher & Fr Benedetto

SERVICES FOR THE WEEK
Psalter Week 2

The Holy Family – Year C
6:00pm(Sat) (STA) Vigil Holy Mass
7:30am (STA) Holy Mass
9:00am (AS) Holy Mass
11:00am (AS) Holy Mass
6:30pm (AS) Holy Mass

During the Week
Monday (STA) 7th Day of Christmas Octave
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Adoration

Solemnity of MARY, MOTHER OF GOD
Monday (STA) 6:00pm Vigil Mass
Tuesday (AS) 12:00 (noon) Holy Mass

Wednesday (STA) Memoria – SS Basil & Gregory
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary

Thursday (AS) Memoria – The Most Holy Name of Jesus
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary

Friday (STA) Feria
8:30am Holy Mass followed by Rosary

Saturday (STA) Feria – O King
9:30am Holy Mass followed by Adoration
10:00-10:30am CONFESSIONS

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

CRIB DONATIONS
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. Bishop Peter is backing this national campaign and has asked that all parishes consider supporting this endeavour. Recently “Mission Together” has made the following grants:

Cambodia (7 projects): £26,935
South Africa (3 projects): £19,013
Sri Lanka (4 projects): £24,908
Kenya (5 projects): £23,766
Malawi (7 projects): £29,94
Myanmar (5 projects): £22,974

More than 20,000 of the world’s most deprived children have been helped by Missio and will be helped directly by you through your offering at the Christmas Crib.

REQUIESCAT IN PACE
Please pray for the soul of
William (Bill) Gilbert, whose Funeral Mass will be on Monday 7th January, 11:30am at St Thomas Aquinas Church. Bill’s Body will be received into the Church at 6pm on Sunday 6th January.
Jesu mercy, Mary pray

CHRISTMAS COLLECTIONS – GIFTS TO YOUR PRIESTS
Many thanks for your kindness and generosity once again towards Fr Benedetto and myself, in the form of the Christmas offering. Thanks also for your many cards and presents. Your love and support his truly humbling.

JOB OPPORTUNITY
Handyman – Milton Keynes Cluster and St Thomas Aquinas and All Saints, Bletchley
– 21 hours per week (flexible)
We have a vacancy for a Handyman to work across the parishes of the Milton Keynes Cluster and St Thomas Aquinas and All Saints. This is a great opportunity to work in a parish environment for someone with experience working in related roles.
Any applicant should have good knowledge of building maintenance and Health and Safety, be practical and adaptable with a can do attitude.
Full information for the position and an application form can be found on the diocesan website http://www.northamptondiocese.org/vacancies.
The closing date for applications will be Friday 18th January 2019 and interviews will be held on Monday 28th January 2019.

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.
3.30-5:00 pm All Saints Church Meeting Room
Future Dates: 14th January; 11th February; 11th March; 8th April; 13th May; 10th June; 8th July.

CATHOLIC BASICS COURSE 31st JANUARY 2019
Want to know more about your Faith? Join us for a basic introduction to the Catholic Faith in four parts: GOD, THE CHURCH, THE MORAL LIFE, PRAYER. For each part there is a day of engaging teaching with opportunities for interaction and discussion. Cost: £25 per person per day (£10 for the unwaged). Price includes a full lunch. No qualifications needed – just interest, good will and a sense of humour!
Launch and Part I: January 31 2019, 10am-3pm
(arr. 9.30am for refreshments).NORES Centre, Holy Ghost Parish, 33 Westbourne Road, Luton, LU4 8JD.
To book, contact: admin@nores.org.uk or phone Jackie on 01582 723312.

CHIDREN’S LITURGY TRAINING
Saturday 12th January 2019 10:30am – 1pm
St Augustine’s Church, Heelands,
Milton Keynes (MK13 7PL)
For those who are either new to, or presently working with, Children’s Liturgy in the Parishes.
An opportunity to share good ideas, practice and resources. Please contact Jo at the Parish Office (01908 372315) if you would like to attend.

PARISH STATISTICS 2018
Average Sunday Mass Attendance
6pm Vigil (St Thomas Aquinas Church): 171
7:30am (St Thomas Aquinas Church): 86
9:00am (All Saints Church): 185
11:00am (All Saints Church): 341
6:30pm (All Saints Church): 145
Baptisms: 56
First Holy Communions: 93
Confirmations: 31
Weddings: 10
Funerals: 47

DECEMBER 100 CLUB WINNERS!
£25 K. Hackett
£12 D. Caballero
£12 S. Palmer

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

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

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.

THE SENIORS’ CHRISTMAS PARTY will be on Saturday 12th January at West Bletchley Community Centre, from 2pm til 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 23 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.

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.
3.30-5:00 pm All Saints Church Meeting Room
Future Dates: 14th January; 11th February; 11th March;
8th April; 13th May; 10th June; 8th July.

CATHOLIC BASICS COURSE 31st JANUARY 2019
Want to know more about your Faith? Join us for a basic introduction to the Catholic Faith in four parts: GOD, THE CHURCH, THE MORAL LIFE, PRAYER. For each part there is a day of engaging teaching with opportunities for interaction and discussion. Cost: £25 per person per day (£10 for the unwaged). Price includes a full lunch. No qualifications needed – just interest, good will and a sense of humour!
Launch and Part I: January 31 2019, 10am-3pm
(arr. 9.30am for refreshments).NORES Centre, Holy Ghost Parish, 33 Westbourne Road, Luton, LU4 8JD.
To book, contact: admin@nores.org.uk or phone Jackie on 01582 723312.

CHIDREN’S LITURGY TRAINING
Saturday 12th January 2019 10:30am – 1pm
St Augustine’s Church, Heelands,
Milton Keynes (MK13 7PL)
For those who are either new to, or presently working with, Children’s Liturgy in the Parishes.
An opportunity to share good ideas, practice and resources. Please contact Jo at the Parish Office (01908 372315) if you would like to attend.
SINGING CAROLS AT MILTON KEYNES HOSPITAL
This year there will be Carol singing at the Milton Keynes Hospital on Sunday 23rd December from 6.45pm to 8.30pm. All are welcome to join in, there will be refreshments afterwards. Please meet in the Hospital Chapel at 6.45pm.

SVP THANK YOU: On behalf of the 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 recent cash collection which raised an amazing total of £840:00. The highest SVP retiring collection I have ever known. This enables us to tackle, with great confidence, some of the more challenging situations we encounter. May God Bless you and all those you hold dear. John Scott SVP Conference President.
DECEMBER 100 CLUB WINNERS!
£25 K. Hackett
£12 D. Caballero
£12 S. Palmer

Handyman – Milton Keynes Cluster and St Thomas Aquinas and All Saints – 21 hours per week (flexible)
We have a vacancy for a Handyman to work across the parishes of the Milton Keynes Cluster and St Thomas Aquinas and All Saints. This is a great opportunity to work in a parish environment for someone with experience working in related roles.

Any applicant should have good knowledge of building maintenance and Health and Safety, be practical and adaptable with a can do attitude.

Full information for the position and an application form can be found on the diocesan website http://www.northamptondiocese.org/vacancies.

The closing date for applications will be Friday 18th January 2019 and interviews will be held on Monday 28th January 2019.

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

SERVICES FOR THE WEEK
Psalter Week 3
Gaudete – 3rd Sunday of Advent– Year C

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

During the Week
Monday (STA) Feria – O Wisdom
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Mass followed by Adoration
Tuesday (AS) Feria – O Adonai
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Mass followed by Adoration
Wednesday (STA) Feria – O Root of Jesse
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Thursday (AS) Feria – O Key of David
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Friday (STA) Feria – O Rising Sun
8:30am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
(AS)7:00pm Advent Holy Hour with CONFESSIONS
Saturday (STA) Feria – O King
9:30am Holy Mass followed by Adoration
10:00-10:30am CONFESSIONS
STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Ave, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Rd, MK3 6HG

THE SEASON OF ADVENT
A time of expectant waiting and preparation for the return of Jesus at the end of time.REJOICE, The LORD is Coming!

POPE FRANCIS’ PRAYER INTENTION
FOR DECEMBER 2018
Please join Pope Francis this month in praying for:
The Transmission of Faith
That people involved in the service and transmission of faith, may find in their dialogue with culture, a language suited to the conditions of the present time.
This Weekend: SECOND COLLECTION
for Church Flowers
CHRISTMAS LITURGIES
CHRISTMAS EVE – 24TH DECEMBER
10 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 Italian Language
MASS of Christmas
St Thomas Aquinas Church

9.00 am & 11 am
MASS of Christmas
All Saints Church
ST STEPHEN’S DAY – 26TH DECEMBER
12 Noon Mass – St Thomas Aquinas Church
All 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.

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS NATIVITY
Rehearsal today 3pm – All Saints Church
For children in Reception and School Years 1-3.
Children in school years 4-6 are invited to take part as readers/singers. The play will be at the beginning of the Children’s Mass 4:30pm on Christmas Eve at All Saints Church.

SPEND TIME WITH THE LORD
THIS ADVENT!
Time for quiet reflection and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. An opportuiny to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession).
7pm-8pm Friday 21st December at All Saints Church
Please note: This replaces the usual Advent Penitential Service.

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.

THE SENIORS’ CHRISTMAS PARTY will be on Saturday 12th January at West Bletchley Community Centre, from 2pm til 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 23 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.

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.
3.30-5:00 pm All Saints Church Meeting Room
Future Dates: 14th January; 11th February; 11th March;
8th April; 13th May; 10th June; 8th July.

CATHOLIC BASICS COURSE 31st JANUARY 2019
Want to know more about your Faith? Join us for a basic introduction to the Catholic Faith in four parts: GOD, THE CHURCH, THE MORAL LIFE, PRAYER. For each part there is a day of engaging teaching with opportunities for interaction and discussion. Cost: £25 per person per day (£10 for the unwaged). Price includes a full lunch. No qualifications needed – just interest, good will and a sense of humour!
Launch and Part I: January 31 2019, 10am-3pm (arr. 9.30am for refreshments).NORES Centre, Holy Ghost Parish, 33 Westbourne Road, Luton, LU4 8JD.
To book, contact: admin@nores.org.uk or phone Jackie on 01582 723312.

CHIDREN’S LITURGY TRAINING
Saturday 12th January 2019 10:30am – 1pm
St Augustine’s Church, Heelands,
Milton Keynes (MK13 7PL)
For those who are either new to, or presently working with, Children’s Liturgy in the Parishes.
An opportunity to share good ideas, practice and resources. Please contact Jo at the Parish Office (01908 372315) if you would like to attend.

SINGING CAROLS AT MILTON KEYNES HOSPITAL
This year there will be Carol singing at the Milton Keynes Hospital on Sunday 23rd December from 6.45pm to 8.30pm. All are welcome to join in, there will be refreshments afterwards. Please meet in the Hospital Chapel at 6.45pm.

MK FOOD BANK
At this time of giving, please remember those who are dependent on your generosity. The Food Bank are short of these specific items at the moment; spreads, sugar, tinned fruit, tinned meat, tinned spaghetti, dried rice, tinned rice pudding, tinned soup (especially vegetable). Please place items in the box at the back of each church. Your support is appreciated.

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

SERVICES FOR THE WEEK
Psalter Week 2
2nd Sunday of Advent– Year C

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

During the Week
Monday (STA) Feria
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Mass followed by Adoration
Tuesday (AS) Feria
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Mass followed by Adoration
Wednesday (STA)Opt. Mem. – Our Lady of Guadalupe
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Thursday (AS) Memoria – St Lucy
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Friday (STA) Memoria – St John of the Cross
8:30am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
7:00pm Advent Holy Hour with CONFESSIONS
Saturday (STA) Feria
9:30am Holy Mass followed by Adoration
10:00-10:30am CONFESSIONS
STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Ave, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Rd, 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 INTENTION
FOR DECEMBER 2018
Please join Pope Francis this month in praying for:
The Transmission of Faith
That people involved in the service and transmission of faith, may find in their dialogue with culture, a language suited to the conditions of the present time.
Next Weekend: SECOND COLLECTION
for Church Flowers
CHRISTMAS LITURGIES
CHRISTMAS EVE – 24TH DECEMBER
10 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 Italian Language
MASS of Christmas
St Thomas Aquinas Church

9.00 am & 11 am
MASS of Christmas
All Saints Church
ST STEPHEN’S DAY – 26TH DECEMBER
12 Noon Mass – St Thomas Aquinas Church
All 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.
SPEND TIME WITH THE LORD
THIS ADVENT!
Time for quiet reflection and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. An opportuiny to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession).
7pm-8pm Friday 14th December at
St Thomas Aquinas Church
7pm-8pm Friday 21st December at All Saints Church
Please note: This replaces the usual Advent Penitential Service.

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.

THE SENIORS’ CHRISTMAS PARTY will be on Saturday 12th January at West Bletchley Community Centre, from 2pm til 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 23 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.

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. Next Meeting: 10th DECEMBER
3.30-5:00 pm All Saints Church Meeting Room
Future Dates: 14th January; 11th February; 11th March;
8th April; 13th May; 10th June; 8th July.

CHARITY CHRISTMAS CARDS now on sale at the back of Church.

MOTHERS’ PRAYER GROUP: 15th DECEMBER
This group meets once a month 3:00-5:00pm on a Saturday at St Thomas Aquinas Meeting Room.

THANK YOU – to all who helped and supported the Parish Fayre – a great effort as always and a wonderful day

PRIESTHOOD – Is God Calling You?
Our diocesan vocations team are inviting any men who are considering a life of priesthood to contact Fr Mark Floody frmark@northamptoncathedral.org or Fr Andrew Richardson frandyrichardson@gmail.com and attend the next vocations weekend. The weekend is held at Northampton Cathedral from Friday 14th – Sunday 16th December. These weekends are great opportunity for anyone discerning priesthood to connect with others and make progress on their own journey of discernment.
AN INVITATION FROM THE GUARDIANS OF THE SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE, BEDFORD.
The Feast Day Mass of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Wednesday 12th December 2018, 7:30pm at the Church of The Holy Child and St Joseph, Bedford (MK40 1HU). Principal Celebrant, His Excellency the Papal Nuncio, Archbishop Edward Adams, Bishop Peter Doyle in attendance. The Rector and Guardians of the Shrine do hope you will be able to join them. Full details: http://www.relicourladyofguadalupe.co.uk

CAN YOU HELP? Could you offer a lift from central Bletchley to the 11am Sunday Mass at All Saints? Car would need to accommodate a “walker”. Please call Maggie on 01908 563277

PARISH FAYRE – GRAND PRIZE DRAW WINNERS!
£250 – Uriel
£100 – Mr Logan
£50 – M. McCarthy
Christmas Hamper – M. Golden
Case of Wine – T. Simpson

SCHOOL CHRISTMAS NATIVITY
Performance for our “Senior Citizens” at St Thomas Aquinas School on Friday 14th December. Doors will open at 12.30pm for mulled wine and mince pies and the performance will start at 1.15pm. Tickets can be purchased from Angela White for £1 each or can be obtained from the school. Please call 01908 373977.

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

SERVICES FOR THE WEEK
Psalter Week 1
1st Sunday of Advent – Year B

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

During the Week
Monday (STA) Memoria – St Francis Xavier
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Mass followed by Adoration
Tuesday (AS) Feria
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Mass followed by Adoration
Wednesday (STA) Memoria – St Birinus
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Thursday (AS) Feria
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Friday (STA) Memoria – St Ambrose
8:30am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
7.00pm Holy Mass in Italian
(AS) 7.00pm Advent Holy Hour with CONFESSIONS
Saturday (STA) Solemnity – Immaculate Conception
9:30am Holy Mass followed by Adoration
10:00-10:30am CONFESSIONS
STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Ave, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Rd, 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 INTENTION

FOR DECEMBER 2018

Please join Pope Francis this month in praying for:

The Transmission of Faith

That people involved in the service and transmission of faith, may find in their dialogue with culture, a language suited to the conditions of the present time.

DIOCESAN YEAR OF PRAYER AND VOCATION – DECEMBER:  Thanksgiving for the Diocesan Year as it draws to close. 

Bishop Peter invites you to a special Mass to mark the close of the Diocesan Year of Prayer and Vocation on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, Saturday, 8 December at 11.30am in Northampton Cathedral. The Apostolic Nuncio, His Excellency, Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams, will be principal celebrant at the Mass. If you would like to attend please let one of the clergy know. 

REQUIESCANT IN PACE  

Please pray for the soul of:

Joan Bernadette Carrigan, whose Funeral Mass will be on Friday 30^th November, 1:45pm at St Thomas Aquinas Church.

Guiseppina Pilla, whose Funeral Mass will be on Tuesday 4^th December, 1:00pm at St Thomas Aquinas Church.

 This Weekend: SECOND COLLECTION forHelping to support our persecuted and oppressed Christian brothers and sisters around the World.

 Today: DIVINE MERCY DEVOTIONS

3pm at All Saints Church, followed by refreshments

All are very welcome!

SPEND TIME WITH THE LORD

THIS ADVENT!

Time for quiet reflection and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. An opportuiny to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession).

7pm-8pm Friday 7^th December at All Saints Church

7pm-8pm Friday 14^th December at

St Thomas Aquinas Church

7pm-8pm Friday 21^st December at All Saints Church

Please note: This replaces the usual Advent Penitential Service.

MASS IN THE ITALIAN LANGUAGE

Friday 7^th December, 7pm

at St Thomas Aquinas Church

ADVENT 2018 ‘My Day by Day’ Booklets

Now available at back of Church.  £1. each

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. Next Meeting: 10^th DECEMBER

3.30-5:00 pm All Saints Church Meeting Room

Future Dates: 14^th January; 11^th February; 11^th March;

8^th April; 13^th May; 10^th June; 8^th July.

CHARITY CHRISTMAS CARDS now on sale at the back of Church.

MOTHERS’ PRAYER GROUP: 15^th DECEMBER 

This group meets once a month 3:00-5:00pm on a Saturday  at St Thomas Aquinas Meeting Room.

THANK YOU – to all who helped and supported the Parish Fayre – a great effort as always and a wonderful day

SCHOOL ADMISSIONS
Completed 2018 diaries will be collected in THIS WEKKEND after the 6pm Vigil; 9am &11am Mass.

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.

2020 School Admissions for Catholic Primary Schools

If you will be applying for a Catholic Primary School place in 2020 you will need to obtain a “Certificate of Catholic Practice” to support your application. Certificates are issued to all those who complete a Parish 2019 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 3^rd December, 7pm at St Thomas Aquinas Church Meeting Room (MK2 2JE), where you will able to register and collect a diary.

AN INVITATION FROM THE GUARDIANS OF THE SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE, BEDFORD.

The Feast Day Mass of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Wednesday 12^th December 2018, 7:30pm at the Church of The Holy Child and St Joseph, Bedford (MK40 1HU). Principal Celebrant, His Excellency the Papal Nuncio, Archbishop Edward Adams, Bishop Peter Doyle in attendance. The Rector and Guardians of the Shrine do hope you will be able to join them. Full details: http://www.relicourladyofguadalupe.co.uk

THE SENIORS’ CHRISTMAS PARTY will be on Saturday 12th January at West Bletchley Community Centre, from 2pm til 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 23 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.

CAN YOU HELP? Could you offer a lift from central Bletchley to the 11am Sunday Mass at All Saints? Car would need to accommodate a “walker”. Please call Maggie on 01908 563277

100 CLUB WINNERS NOVEMBER 2018

£25 – D. Caballero

£12- J. Caballero

£12 – A. Too-Chung

With every blessing for the week ahead

Fr Christopher  &  Fr Benedetto

SERVICES FOR THE WEEK
Psalter Week 2
CHRIST the KING Sunday– Year B

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

During the Week – Year II
Monday (STA) Feria
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Mass followed by Adoration
Tuesday (AS) Feria
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Mass followed by Adoration
3:00pm Dementia Mass (STA)
Wednesday (STA) Feria
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Thursday (AS) Feria
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Friday (STA) Feast – St Andrew the Apostle
8:30am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Saturday (STA) Opt. Memorial – St Edmund Campion
9:30am Holy Mass followed by Adoration
10:00-10:30am CONFESSIONS
STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Ave, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Rd, MK3 6HG

POPE FRANCIS’ PRAYER INTENTION
FOR NOVEMBER 2018
Please join Pope Francis this month in praying for:
The Service of Peace
That the language of love and dialogue may always prevail over the language of conflict.

DIOCESAN YEAR OF PRAYER AND VOCATION – NOVEMBER: Month of Prayer for all who have died, for those who have helped us live our baptismal vocation.

REQUIESCANT IN PACE
Please pray for the soul of:
Edward Hayes, whose Funeral Mass will be on Wednesday 28th November, 12:30pm at All Saints Church.
Joan Bernadette Carrigan, whose Funeral Mass will be on Friday 30th November, 1:45pm at St Thomas Aquinas Church.
Guiseppina Pilla, whose Funeral Mass will be on Tuesday 4th December, 1:00pm at St Thomas Aquinas Church.

DEMENTIA Friendly MASS
3 pm Tuesday 27th November: 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.

BAPTISMAL PREPARATION MEETING
For Parents who would like to have their children Baptised in the coming weeks. 8 pm Thursday 29th November at St Thomas Aquinas Church.

Next Sunday: DIVINE MERCY DEVOTIONS
3pm at All Saints Church, followed by refreshments
All are very welcome!

Next Sunday: SECOND COLLECTION for Helping to support are persecuted and oppressed Christian brothers and sisters around the World.

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. Next Meeting: 10th DECEMBER
3.30-5:00 pm All Saints Church Meeting Room

ADVENT 2018 ‘My Day by Day’ Booklets
Now available at back of Church. £1. each

CHARITY CHRISTMAS CARDS now on sale at the back of Church.

MOTHERS’ PRAYER GROUP: 15th DECEMBER
This group meets once a month 3:00-5:00pm on a Saturday at St Thomas Aquinas Meeting Room.

THANK YOU – to all who helped and supported the Parish Fayre – a great effort as always and a wonderful day

ADVANCE NOTICE(S) – SCHOOL ADMISSIONS
2019 Catholic Primary School Admissions
Completed 2018 diaries will be collected in after the 6pm Vigil; 9am &11am Mass on the weekend of 1st /2nd December (Advent Sunday). If there is a sufficient record of attendance (stamps) then we will notify Bishop Parker School and St Thomas Aquinas School directly. We will inform you by email if a “Certificate of Catholic Practice” has been issued. If you are applying for another Catholic Primary School then please contact the Parish Office after you have received a confirmation email and Fr Christopher will complete any necessary forms. Please remember that a Certificate of Catholic Practice does not guarantee a school place but does support your application. In the event of over subscription “Admissions Criteria” are applied. The “Admissions Policy” for each school can be viewed on their respective websites. 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.

2020 School Admissions for Catholic Primary Schools
If you will be applying for a Catholic Primary School place in 2020 you will need to obtain a “Certificate of Catholic Practice” to support your application. Certificates are issued to all those who complete a Parish 2019 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 3rd December, 7pm at St Thomas Aquinas Church Meeting Room (MK2 2JE), where you will able to register and collect a diary.

IS GOD CALLING YOU TO SERVE HIS CHURCH IN THE
THE LEGION OF MARY? Membership is open to practising Catholic male and female parishioners. The work of the Legion in our Parish focuses mainly on visiting the sick, bereaved, and housebound and contributes very much in assisting the Priests of our Parish. If you are interested in finding out more about The Legion of Mary you are very welcome to attend one of the weekly meetings. Meetings are held in the Meeting Room at All Saints Church every Tuesday evening from 7.30pm-9.00pm.
Our Lady of the Holy Rosary pray for us
PRIESTHOOD – Is God Calling You?
Our diocesan vocations team are inviting any men who are considering a life of priesthood to contact Fr Mark Floody frmark@northamptoncathedral.org or Fr Andrew Richardson frandyrichardson@gmail.com and attend the next vocations weekend. The weekend is held at Northampton Cathedral from Friday 14th – Sunday 16th December. These weekends are great opportunity for anyone discerning priesthood to connect with others and make progress on their own journey of discernment.
MISSIO (APF) RED BOXES
Please return any filled Red Boxes and remember to collect a new one so we can send the money off to Missio.
Any queries please see Mr Ron Graham.

BUILDING WORKS: Work on relining the concrete gutters and repairing the flat roofs have now been completed at St St Thomas Aquinas Church. Work has now started at All Saints Church to do the same with the gutters and to replace the flat roofs with new material. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.

Let keep CHRIST in CHRISTmas
Despite what some supermarkets would have us believe, CHRISTmas is not about turkey. It is about the overflowing love of God revealed in the Birth of Jesus Christ! It is not therefore, as is often said, “for the children”. It is for all people because it is about the hope of our eternal salvation! Therefore as you make preparations for the great season try to keep CHRIST in CHRISTmas by purchasing only Christian cards and religious postage stamps. NB: You may need to ask for the ‘Madonna and Child’ stamps at the Postoffice otherwise you will offered the secular seasonal stamps featuring red postboxes.

CAN YOU HELP? Could you offer a lift from central Bletchley to the 11am Sunday Mass at All Saints? Car would need to accommodate a “walker”. Please call Maggie on 01908 563277

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

SERVICES FOR THE WEEK
Psalter Week 1
33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time – Year B

6:00pm(Sat) (STA) Vigil Holy Mass
7:30am (STA) Holy Mass
9:00am (AS) Holy Mass
11:00am (AS) Holy Mass
6:30pm (AS) Holy Mass
During the Week – Year II
Monday (STA Feria
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Mass followed by Adoration
Tuesday (AS) Memoria – St Edmund
9:30am Rosary
10:00am Mass followed by Adoration
Wednesday (STA) Memoria – Presentation of the blessed Virgin Mary at the Temple
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Thursday (AS) Memorial – St Cecilia
10:00am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Friday (STA) Feria
8:30am Holy Mass followed by Rosary
Saturday (STA) Memorial – St Andrew Dung-Lac & companions
9:30am Holy Mass followed by Adoration
10:00-10:30am CONFESSIONS
STA: St Thomas Aquinas Church, Sycamore Ave, MK2 2JE
AS: All Saints Church, Shenley Rd, MK3 6HG

2018 PARISH FAYRE
12 noon, Saturday 24th November
At Bishop Parker School
A Fun Afternoon for all the family!
Please access the School via rear entrance on Barton Road (located off Drayton Road) MK2 3BT.
Plenty of parking available.

We are looking for donations of items on the following Sundays:
18th November: Soft Drinks & Bottles of Drink
24th November: Freshly baked cakes {On the day}
Please bring any donations to Mass and leave them in the Sacristy. If you would like to help with the Fayre as a volunteer please contact Mags Holloway on 07886196804.

POPE FRANCIS’ PRAYER INTENTION
FOR NOVEMBER 2018
Please join Pope Francis this month in praying for:
The Service of Peace
That the language of love and dialogue may always prevail over the language of conflict.

DIOCESAN YEAR OF PRAYER AND VOCATION
NOVEMBER: Month of Prayer for all who have died, for those who have helped us live our baptismal vocation.
REQUIESCAT IN PACE – Please pray for the soul of
Edward Hayes, whose Funeral Mass will be on Wednesday 28th November, 12:30pm at All Saints Church.

SECOND COLLECTION Today:
The Diocesan Priest’s Fund, Helping to care for sick and retired Clergy of the Northampton Diocese.

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. Next Meeting: 10th DECEMBER
3.30-5:00 pm All Saints Church Meeting Room

ADVENT 2018 ‘My Day by Day’ Booklets
Now available at back of Church. £1. each
AN EVENING ON GLOBAL HEALING
A new film sponsored by our Bishops to explore the relationship between our faith and our common home! Join us for a free and inspiring evening of film, food & friendship, responding together to Pope Francis’ call to care for creation and to pass on a healthy planet to our children’s children. Monday 19th November
7pm – St Thomas Aquinas Church meeting room
All very Welcome

CHARITY CHRISTMAS CARDS now on sale at the back of Church.

MOTHERS’ PRAYER GROUP: 24th NOVEMBER
This group meets once a month 3:00-5:00pm on a Saturday at St Thomas Aquinas Meeting Room.
Future Date: 15th December

ADVANCE NOTICE(S) – SCHOOL ADMISSIONS
2019 Catholic Primary School Admissions
Completed 2018 diaries will be collected in after the 6pm Vigil; 9am &11am Mass on the weekend of 1st /2nd December (Advent Sunday). If there is a sufficient record of attendance (stamps) then we will notify Bishop Parker School and St Thomas Aquinas School directly. We will inform you by email if a “Certificate of Catholic Practice” has been issued. If you are applying for another Catholic Primary School then please contact the Parish Office after you have received a confirmation email and Fr Christopher will complete any necessary forms. Please remember that a Certificate of Catholic Practice does not guarantee a school place but does support your application. In the event of over subscription “Admissions Criteria” are applied. The “Admissions Policy” for each school can be viewed on their respective websites. 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.

2020 School Admissions for Catholic Primary Schools
If you will be applying for a Catholic Primary School place in 2020 you will need to obtain a “Certificate of Catholic Practice” to support your application. Certificates are issued to all those who complete a Parish 2019 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 3rd December, 7pm at St Thomas Aquinas Church Meeting Room (MK2 2JE), where you will able to register and collect a diary.

IS GOD CALLING YOU TO SERVE HIS CHURCH as a Legionary?
THE LEGION OF MARY was established in our Parish in 2006. Over the years the Legion has proved to be a very valuable and supportive part of our Parish. As your Parish Priest I am asking you to consider becoming part of this very worthwhile Parish group. Membership is open to practising Catholic male and female parishioners. The work of the Legion in our Parish focuses mainly on visiting the sick, bereaved, and housebound and contributes very much in assisting the Priests of our Parish. If you are interested in finding out more about The Legion of Mary you are very welcome to attend one of the weekly meetings. Meetings are held in the Meeting Room at All Saints Church every Tuesday evening from 7.30pm-9.00pm.
Our Lady of the Holy Rosary pray for us

CATHOLIC BASICS COURSE 31st JANUARY 2019
Want to know more about your Faith? Join us for a basic introduction to the Catholic Faith in four parts: GOD, THE CHURCH, THE MORAL LIFE, PRAYER. For each part there is a day of engaging teaching with opportunities for interaction and discussion. Cost: £25 per person per day (£10 for the unwaged). Price includes a full lunch. No qualifications needed – just interest, good will and a sense of humour!
Launch and Part I: January 31 2019, 10am-3pm
(arr. 9.30am for refreshments).NORES Centre, Holy Ghost Parish, 33 Westbourne Road, Luton, LU4 8JD.
To book, contact: admin@nores.org.uk or phone Jackie on 01582 723312.

PRIESTHOOD – Is God Calling You?
Our diocesan vocations team are inviting any men who are considering a life of priesthood to contact Fr Mark Floody frmark@northamptoncathedral.org or Fr Andrew Richardson frandyrichardson@gmail.com and attend the next vocations weekend. The weekend is held at Northampton Cathedral from Friday 14th – Sunday 16th December. These weekends are great opportunity for anyone discerning priesthood to connect with others and make progress on their own journey of discernment.

MISSIO (APF) RED BOXES
Please return any filled Red Boxes and remember to collect a new one so we can send the money off to Missio.
Any queries please see Mr Ron Graham.

BUILDING WORKS: Work on relining the concrete gutters and repairing the flat roofs have now been completed at St St Thomas Aquinas Church. Work has now started at All Saints Church to do the same with the gutters and to replace the flat roofs with new material. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.

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