3rd SUNDAY OF ADVENT (Gaudete Sunday)
Rejoice in the Lord, again I say, rejoice.
On this Gaudete Sunday, we rejoice because the Lord’s coming is nearer. We light the Candle of JOY, whose pink colour symbolises an infusion of the Christmas Light that arouses in us a joyful mood which we must nourish through prayers and good deeds. Hence, today’s second reading tells us to “Give thanks to God in all things, hold on to what is good and avoid evil.” To reinforce this joy, God makes a promise in today’s first reading. Here is the context. God’s people had returned from exile. However, the future remained somewhat uncertain and scary. Thus, the Lord makes a promise of the One to whom the Spirit is given to heal, bind the broken-hearted and proclaim freedom. He is the One, we are called, like John the Baptist, to make a way for in our hearts and to help others do the same. Since his coming is nearer, we confidently wait, knowing that, as St Paul tells us, “God will not fail us”. So, rejoice in the Lord.
Happy Gaudete Sunday Fr Chinedu
ADVENT EXPECTANT WAITING 2023
There will be an advent reflection, here in the church on 21st December. The time is 6 to 7 pm Using the Image of the ADVENT WREATH CANDLES we shall prayerfully unpack the three-fold character of the Advent Season while focusing on the four Advent themes of Hope, Faith, Joy and Peace. All are welcome.
CHRISTMAS ARRANGEMENTS
Please pick up a card with the Christmas service times. This doubles as our Christmas card to you.
TAKEHOMENEWS
This is the last Takehomenews until Sunday 7th January
CONFIRMATION PROGRAMME 2024
Application forms for those in Year 10 or above who would like to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation next year are available at the back of the church. Please return the form to the presbytery by today Sunday 17th December 2023. Sessions will start in January.
CHRISTMAS EVE 4PM MASS
There will be a rehearsal for those taking part after 10.30am Mass (today) Sunday 17th December.
Carol Service
There will be a Carol Service (today) Sunday, 17th December in the church at 6.30pm. Parishioners from St Alphage Church will be joining us.
RECENTLY DECEASED
Please remember in your prayers those who have died recently:
Gladys Thompson, Her Funeral Mass will take place here at 11am. On Friday 22nd December, also Fr Terry Murray & Margaret Johnson, may their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, rest in peace.
PLEASE PICK UP MISSIO RED BOXES
Thank you to everyone who brought in their red box. You have raised £653.29.Please pick up your red box from under the table at the back of the church.If your box has your name and address on it, please pick it up from the sacristy.Thank you. The next count will be May 2024. The Missio team.
Fr Colin
Father Colin wishes you all a very Happy and Holy Christmas, and every blessing for the New Year. I am remembering you daily in my prayers .
BAPTISM PREPARATION
There will be a preparation session for parents who wish to have their baby baptised Sunday 4th February 2024 at 4pm in the church.
Mary’s Meals
Mary’s Meals would like to thank everyone in the parish for their wonderful generosity. We spoke at the end of each Mass last weekend and were delighted by the total given – a terrific £892.20 which will feed 46 children one good meal every school day in their place of education. However, because of the Mary’s Meals ‘Double the Love’ campaign your donations will be doubled to £1784.40 enabling us to feed 92 children one good meal at school for a whole year! Please continue to pray for the work of Mary’s Meals. God bless you all.
RCIA
The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults usually starts in October, if you know anyone who may want to become a Catholic, invite the person to speak with any of the priests.
Who is RCIA for?
1. Unbaptised adults asking for baptism, confirmation, and communion.
2. Adults baptised in another Christian tradition or candidates asking for reception into full communion in the Church.
3. Baptised Catholics asking for Confirmation and Eucharist
St James’ HIGH School
St James’ High School are looking for invigilators for the exam season. If you are interested please email our exam office. cdelucia@st-James.barnet.Sch.uk
HAPPY Christmas & Happy NEW YEAR !
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