We are used to images of the Holy Spirit as a dove, or even as a flame of fire, perhaps as a breath of God. But there is an image that we see every day; our own reflection and the faces of others. The Spirit is most obvious where the gifts of the Spirit are experienced...in people who express joy and peace in their lives; in people who are wise and understanding and offer sound advice; in people who are prayerful and truly holy, in people who are kind and good, faithful and gentle; in people are strong in the face of challenge and who can yet know how to bend. They will be members of your family, neighbours and friends, colleagues and parishioners. Some will be the saints and holy ones of the Church. As we prepare to celebrate the coming of the Spirit at Pentecost, take some time to reflect on the people who have shown you the face of the living Spirit of God. And reflect on, and be grateful for, the times you have been an image of the Spirit for others. May we all be open to the gifts and presence of the Spirit that was given to us in baptism and later confirmed.
RECENTLY DECEASED
Please remember in your prayers all our beloved departed, especially
Fr Timothy Njoku CM (one of the first Nigerians to join the Vincentians)
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. SUNDAY EVENING PRAYER AND BENEDICTION Continues this week, beginning at 7.30pm. VOCATION DISCERNMENT On Wednesday, 17th May, there will be an open evening at St James, Spanish Place, for men considering priesthood. A gathering will follow the regular evening Mass at 6pm. PERMANENT DIACONATE Men who might be considering permanent diaconate are invited to a session from 10 am-noon, on 20th May at the Parish Hall, Bowes Road, N11 1AA. BAPTISM PREPARATION COURSE A reminder that the meetings are on Thursday 11th and Thursday 18th May, at 7.30 pm in the Bethany Room. If you have any queries, please contact janeyclegg1@gmail.com DAY WITH MARY There will be an extra event this Saturday, 13th May, at Our Lady of Fatima, Commonwealth Avenue, W12. COFFEE MORNING/CAKE SALE Our 2023 Confirmation group will be hosting a coffee morning/cake sale in the Bethany Room after all morning Masses on Sunday 21st May, to raise money for the parish. They would be very grateful for your support and hope that you can come and join them for a cuppa and/or to buy some delicious cakes. P.S. My thanks to the confirmation group for this great initiative; I hope everyone will support them in some way (Eugene cm) AFTERNOON TEA AND BINGO This very popular event will take place on Monday 15th, from 2-4pm. If you know anyone who would like to attend, please invite them along or let us know and we can arrange transport. SECOND COLLECTION Thank you all so much for your support for the Daughters of Divine Love Appeal; Sr Ann was very touched by the generosity of people here. There is no special collection this weekend but on 20/21 May the collection will be for the Catholic Communications Network.
AND FINALLY...
This coming Thursday, 18th, is the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord. The feast reminds us that 'where He has gone, we hope to follow'.
With every blessing and good wish,
Rev Eugene Curran CM