'Vanity of vanities' says the Preacher and, in the Gospel, Jesus warns against relying on wealth and possessions. Hebel (or Havel), the original word in Hebrew, doesn't mean vanity in the sense of pride or arrogance but, rather, something frothy, light, insubstantial, ephemeral, passing, like spume on the water or dust in the air. Both Qoheleth (the Preacher) and Jesus are reminding us that the things of this world, wonderful as they can be, are passing and we cannot take them with us. Our worth is based on what is both more insubstantial (you cannot weigh, measure or pour love, justice, peace or tolerance) and substantial; it is our true substance.
RECENTLY DECEASED Please remember in your prayers all our beloved departed, especially:
Michelle Hay (16 August, 12 pm)
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. FUNDRAISING; SUNDAY 6th AUGUSTMany of the parishioners will know the Samarasinghe family, originally from Sri Lanka. Mohan is seeking to raise funds to aid people in Sri Lanka which is experiencing such turmoil at this time. Politically and economically, the situation is getting worse by the day and, according to a recent BBC report, inflation is expected to rise to 70% shortly. It is, as ever, the poorest who suffer most. Funds raised will support CandleAid Lanka’s food distributing initiative. You can also make a Gift Aid Declaration through Barclays We Are One Sri Lanka Sort Code: 20-54-11 A/C No. 23944778 BISHOP DOUGLASS SCHOOL The summer edition of the school magazine is now available on-line and some copies are available in the Narthex. GK CHESTERTON PILGRIMAGE Next Saturday, 30th July, sees the 12th annual Chesterton pilgrimage; this one will mark the 100th anniversary of his reception into the Church. For details contact 07795 205 114 or www.catholicgkchestertonsociety.co.uk. And, if you have never read the Screwtape Letters, this would be an opportune time to do so! COMINGS AND GOINGS Thank heavens, we have begun the move to St Vincent's House on the Ridgeway, which will accommodate the Vincentian Community while the new build is taking place. In the coming weeks, we will be moving the Parish Office to its temporary accommodation. Thanks to so many of you for your support and prayers.
ND FINALLY... This week, the Pope has made a pilgrimage of repentance and penitence to Canada, acknowledging the hurt and damage done by Church people to indigenous peoples and, especially, to First Nation, Métis and Inuit children in Catholic Schools and Orphanages. Our history has much that is beautiful and powerful but we cannot, and should not, deny its shadows - the 'vanities' that can seduce us in so many ways. Let us pray for true and lasting healing and also for a commitment to truth and justice in the future; not just in Canada but everywhere. With every blessing, Rev Eugene Curran CM