In today's Gospel there is an interesting change of tone; the people who at first admonish/scold Bartimaeus (literally, they urge him to behave 'correctly' or 'appropriately') soon become those who encourage him. The root meaning of courage is 'cor', heart; a strength from within; to know that you have the gifts and ability you need to face any, usually challenging, situation. In challenging times, can we find that courage within ourselves to face what is difficult and, instead of admonishing others, can we encourage them to find that strength within also, knowing that, at the core of the heart, sits God, the true source of all courage? RECENTLY DECEASED Please remember in your prayers all who have died recently, especially;
Wilfred Canagaretna (Funeral, 2 pm 29th October) Darren O’Carroll (Funeral, 11am 27th October) Luisa Torreiro (Funeral, 26th October)
and all those who have died during this time of pandemic. We continue to remember in our prayers all those who are sick and those who care for them.
BAPTISMS Over the past few months, we have had 43 infants baptised (see the wordcloud above). In the words of the Baptism Service, the Christian Community welcomes them all with great joy. We will keep in our prayers; Eimear Annie, Clara Holly, Kiela Marie, Amme Ria, Landon Pavlin, Christina Adaora, Kobimfenna Micah, Adolam Daniel, Millicent, Jiya Mary, Eve Frances, Joshua Joseph, Sadie Rae, Tianna Iretelerni, Ella Rose, Summer Eve, James Benedict, Arya Logan, Safron Lorraine Mary, Teresa, Olive Onenu, Yakob, Edie Mayori, Leo James, Gabriel Joseph, Caneil Niche, Bea Allegra, Jared Aidan, Anna Sofia, Kal-El King Abe, Zariah, Harrison Daniel, Jacob Layal, Peter Paul Muli, Scout Ezer, Ella Rose, Jason, Erica Athena Awo, Geana Maame, Tianna, Leana Ysabelle, Nicholas Rex and Samuel Joseph. Special thanks to Jane Clegg, Ruth Essen and Fr Ako who took on the preparation for baptism and, I am sure, made each day memorable for all those involved. WORLD DAY OF THE POOR: SUNDAY 14th NOVEMBER / FOODBANK
Please remember the forthcoming World day of the Poor and, perhaps, give some thought as to how you can assist your sisters and brothers in poverty. We are always ready to receive donations to the foodbank. Urgently needed items are
SUGAR - small packets (very urgent)
TINNED FRUIT NON FOOD ITEMS TINNED VEGETABLES TOILET ROLLS TINNED FISH NAPPIES (sizes 3/4/5) PASTA SAUCE TOILETRIES (for men and women) RICE PUDDING SHOWER GEL LONG LIFE MILK DEODORANT COFFEE SHAMPOO TINNED MEAT WIPES JUICE WASHING POWDER CRISPS / SNACKS WASHING UP LIQUID BISCUITS TOOTHBRUSH COOKING OIL TOOTHPASTE They have more than enough beans, pasta, cereal and soup. You can find out more about the foodbank on their website; colindale.foodbank.org.uk
PARISH REPOSITORY
Thanks to sterling work by Ruth Essen, the repository is now functioning again. We hope to have it staffed on Sunday's after each Mass and, if anyone is interested in volunteering their time for this, please contact the parish office. In the meantime, do take a look at some of the goods on display and, should you want anything, contact Ruth, Dave Kennedy or the Parish Office.
GOD'S HEALING PRESENCE PRAYER GROUP
We are delighted to invite you to join our weekly Prayer Meetings, held in the Church every Friday, from 7pm - 9 pm, beginning Friday 29th October. The meeting begins with Mass, followed by the Rosary, praise and worship songs, talks/scripture sharing and a communal intercessory moment, when we pray for each other, our families and all peoples. Please come, and feel free to invite friends and family members.
MEMORIAL MASS FOR MR PATRICK ANYANWU
Fr Ako will be celebrating a memorial Mass for his late father, who died last year, at 12.30 on Saturday, 30th October, with refreshments in the Parish Hall afterwards. Anyone who would like to attend is welcom.
SECOND COLLECTIONS
This Sunday is World Mission Day. Missio, the Pope's charity for world mission, helps missionaries who work alongside communities that are poor or in need, regardless of background or belief. Envelopes are available at the back of the Church and can be returned in the usual collection baskets on the altar steps. You can also make contributions on-line at missio.org.uk
MISSIO RED BOXES
A reminder that Missio Red Boxes may be handed in from now until the end of the year at the Parish Office.
If you would like to have a Red Box to collect your small change or would like your box to be collected, please contact Nick Musgrove 0208 958 5917 or 07511 858 729
All foreign coins gratefully received.
A PRAYER FOR THE COP26 CLIMATE TALKS; 31 OCTOBER - 12 NOVEMBER The Bishops of England and Wales are asking that people pray that the world leaders, meeting together in Glasgow, work together for positive outcomes for all people and for our planet. Copies of this prayer will be available in the Narthex.
Loving God, we praise your name with all you have created. You are present in the whole universe and in the smallest of creatures. We acknowledge the responsibilities you have placed on us as stewards of your creation. May the Holy Spirit inspire all political leaders at COP26 as they seek to embrace the changes needed for a more sustainable society. Instill in them the courage and gentleness to implement fairer solutions for the poorest and more vulnerable and commit their nations to the care of Our Common Home. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ your Son.
You can find out more at cafod.org.uk With every blessings and good wish,