Hello Everyone

As I write this, I am at home and it is looking pretty bleak outside. Lockdowns are never easy but they do give us a chance to reset and prioritise what is important to us. Below is an extract from Bishop Greg’s Pentecost letter Setting Forth which urges us forward, to search for fresh ways to re-engage with our faith communities and to be present in the lives of our people.  In this time of pandemic, when all our certainties are being seriously challenged, we’re encouraged to think in new ways, fruitfully and creatively, to work at re-establishing those connections that bring life to our faith communities. 

We cannot go back to the way we were….. with all that has happened in our world and to us personally, how might we use this time of the church to deepen our faith, strengthen our communities, reach out to others and draw them into God’s life-giving love and mercy?

What did we learn about our parish community because of Covid-19?

What pastoral initiatives emerged at our parish which should not be lost?

What could we have done differently and how might we move forward?

We could ask these questions about our school community and see what responses we receive. 

Mark’s Gospel reading last Sunday began with  ‘He took pity on them because they were like sheep without a shepherd.’  If we look at what Jesus feels and what he does. We are told, ‘He had compassion for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd. We may feel a bit ‘lost’ at the moment but remember that Jesus is always with us. 

Bookings for the next round of First Holy Communion ceremonies have already begun, if you require more information please contact St. Michael’s Parish Centre. Bookings for the Sacrament of Confirmation have also started which can be accessed via the following link:https://www.trybooking.com/BSNPA

The dates for the Sacrament of Confirmation are as follows: 

• Thursday 26th August at 7:30pm 
• Friday 27th August at 7:30pm 
• Saturday 28th August at 12:00pm 
• Saturday 28th August at 3:00pm

Please keep our Communion and Confirmation candidates in your prayers as they prepare for these sacraments.

Yours in Faith                                         

Nerida Byrden - REL