In California, when rains fall after long periods of drought, they experience a 'superbloom', when hillsides, normally brown and barren, are covered, suddenly, by wildflowers. Isaiah imagines just such a bloom in the first reading - an image of glory, splendour, rejoicing and joy. This Sunday is known as 'Gaudete' (Rejoicing) Sunday. Can we take some time this week to consider and give thanks for all the many gifts God has given to us? Amid all the challenges and difficulties of life, we still have life, and love, and companionship, and health, and sustenance and memories. There is always a lot for which to be grateful. RECENTLY DECEASED
Please remember in your prayers all our beloved departed. We also remember those who died recently and those whose anniversaries occur at this time.
We continue to remember in our prayers all those who are sick and those who care for them. EAMONN SHERIDAN R.I.P. Eamonn's family would like to thank the clergy and members of the parish for their many messages of sympathy and acts of kindness, both during his illness and since his passing on 23rd October. Your support and prayers have been a great comfort during this difficult time. At the request of the family, a Mass will be offered for the intentions of all members of the parish. VOLUNTEER STEWARDS/COLLECTORS We need people who are willing to volunteer as stewards/collectors at Masses, especially at the weekend. I am very grateful to those who already do this and hope you will continue. If you are available, please give your name to Dave Kennedy, to any of the priests or contact the parish office. ADVENT SERVICES REMINDERS There were some errors in last week's newsletter; The Parish Reconciliation Service will be on Wednesday, 14th December, at 7.30pm. The Parish Carol Service will be on Wednesday, 21st December, at 7.30pm. Masses on Christmas Eve will be at 5pm, 7pm, 9.30pm (Carols) and 10pm (Mass). Masses on Christmas Day will be at 9am and 11am. Also, younger people coming to the 5pm Mass on Christmas Eve are invited to come as shepherds and angels. ACCOMMODATION SOUGHT A reminder that a single older gentleman is looking for a studio flat in the Mill Hill area. If you can assist, please contact the Parish Office. KNITTERS Barnet Hospital is looking for orange hats for high dependency babies. If you would like to volunteer, you can find the pattern and further information at royalfree.nhs.uk. You can knit at home or join our weekly knitting group which meets in the Bethany Room on Tuesdays from 2-4pm.
CHRISTMAS CRIB OFFERING A reminder that all offerings made at the crib go to the Catholic Children's Society. You can also contribute online at cathchild.org.uk or use the QR code at the Crib. ST MICHAEL'S, FINCHLEY; ENGLISH AND DRAMA TEACHER The school is looking for a temporary teacher of English and Drama. Applications and information at st-michaels.barnet.sch.uk DAUGHTERS OF CHARITY The Advent Evening Prayer, which includes Adoration, continues this Sunday and will be followed by a cup of tea. Everyone is welcome. KNOCK PILGRIMAGES 2023 Escorted Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine, 15th May 2023: £699.00 per person sharing. Price includes flight, all transfers, 4 nights’ in Knock House Hotel with full board, entertainment and excursions included. Single supplement £150.00. Contact Patricia on 01268 762 278 or 07740 175557 or email knockpilgrimages@gmail.com. PARISH CHRISTMAS RAFFLE This weekend we will be selling tickets at all masses for the annual Christmas raffle. TRAINING FOR MINISTRY There will be a training afternoon for all Ministers of the Word and Ministers of the Eucharist on Saturday, 21st January, 2.00-3.30pm. Anyone else who wishes to attend is more than welcome.
St Lucy's Day falls this week; a major celebration in Scandanavia AND FINALLY...COMINGS AND GOINGS Fr John has returned to Cameroon for Christmas and has safely arrived in the bosom of his family. May this Gaudete Sunday give us an opportunity to reflect on and be grateful for the graces and blessings of our lives.. With every blessing,
Rev Eugene Curran CM