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For more information on what is happening at St Hugh's this week
please take a look at our current newsletter.
Live streaming of Sunday, 10am Mass
https://www.youtube.com/@StHughofLincolnChurch
Please note that as the livestream remains unmonitored, if for any reason the stream
is interrupted during the service we will be unable to re-establish a connection.
MASS AND SERVICE TIMES THIS WEEK
Sunday, 17th September
Sunday: 8.30am; 10am; 12.15pm (Polish); 3pm (African); 6pm
Monday: 8am Mass
Tuesday: 10am Mass
Wednesday: 10am Service of Word and Sacrament
Thursday: 8am Mass
Friday: 1pm Requiem Mass
Saturday: 10am Mass
Sunday, 24th September
Sunday: 8.30am; 10am; 12.15pm (Polish); 3pm (African); 6pm
Monday: 8am Mass
Tuesday: 10am Mass
Wednesday: 10am Service of Word and Sacrament
Thursday: 8am Mass
Friday: 1pm Requiem Mass
Saturday: 10am Mass
Sunday, 1st October
Sunday: 8.30am; 10am; 12.15pm (Polish); 6pm
Monday: 7.30am They Holy Rosary; 8am Mass
Tuesday: 5pm Vigil Mass St Francis of Assisi
at St Lawrence Church of England, Bardney, (LN3 5TZ)
(NB There will be no service in St Hugh's today)
10am Service of Word and Sacrament
Thursday: 7.30am The Holy Rosary; 8am Mass
Friday: 9.30am The Holy Rosary; 10am Mass
Saturday: 9.30am The Holy Rosary; 10am Mass
Sunday 8th October
Sunday: 8.30am; 10am; 12.15pm (Polish); 6pm
Monday: 7.30am They Holy Rosary; 8am Mass
Tuesday: 9.30am The Holy Rosary; 10am Mass
Wednesday: 9.30am The Holy Rosary; 10am Service of Word and Sacrament
Thursday: 7.30am The Holy Rosary; 8am Mass
Friday: 9.30am The Holy Rosary; 10am Mass
Saturday: 9.30am The Holy Rosary; 10am Mass
Saturday: 10.30am until 12noon - Confessions and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
HERITAGE OPEN DAYS 2023 AT NOTTINGHAM CATHEDRAL
Friday 8th September -Saturday 16th September 2023
With a special focus on the ‘Restoring Pugin’ project, guided tours, expert talks, an exhibition of Cathedral treasures and family art workshops
(including provision for families with additional needs) will form the Cathedral’s offering for this year’s Heritage Opening Days.
All are welcome. For timings and more details see here:
https://www.nottinghamcathedral.co.uk/what-s-on/latest-news/heritage-open-days-2023/
MESSAGES FROM THE DIOCESE
In preparation for the Jubilee Year 2025 Pope Francis has asked the Church to look again at some of the documents of the Second Vatican Council. Nottingham Deanery is hosting a series of talks, open to all, and presented by specialists in each Constitution:
· Father Guy Nicholls cong orat, Monday 2nd October, at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour parish hall, Bulwell NG6 9ES, speaking about Sacrosanctum Concilium, the constitution about the liturgy;
· Father Richard Ounsworth OP, Wednesday 18th October, at Sacred Heart community centre, Carlton NG4 1FP, speaking about Dei Verbum, the constitution about scripture
· Doctor Mary McCaughey, Monday
20th November, at Saint John the Evangelist parish hall, Stapleford NG9 7BT, speaking about Gaudium et Spes, the constitution about the Church in the world
· Bishop Patrick, Thursday 30th November, at Our Lady and Saint Patrick in the Meadows’ parish hall, The Meadows NG2 1JQ, speaking about Lumen Gentium, the constitution about the Church
Each evening will begin at 7pm with a talk, followed by questions, and light refreshments, before finishing at 8.30pm. All are very welcome to come and hear more about these documents which are central to our faith.
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Bishop Patrick is seeking to appoint new foundation directors and governors for our Catholic Multi-Academy Trusts and schools. If you would like to know more about these rewarding voluntary roles, please contact Peter Giorgio (Director of Education) by emailing the Director’s PA, Julie Sweeney (julie.sweeney@nottingham-des.org.uk) or by telephoning 01332 293833.
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Ahead of Education Sunday the Catholic Union is encouraging people to sign an open letter to the Education Secretary calling for the 50 percent cap on faith-based admissions to new free schools to be lifted. The cap is preventing the Catholic Church in England from taking part in the free schools programme. The letter is available to sign at www.catholicunion.org.uk or using the QR code:
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With a special focus on the ‘Restoring Pugin’ project, guided tours, expert talks, an exhibition of Cathedral treasures and family art workshops (including provision for families with additional needs) will form the Cathedral’s offering for this year’s Heritage Opening Days, being held in the Cathedral Friday 8th – Saturday 16th September. All are welcome. For timings and more details visit www.nottinghamcathedral.co.uk/what-s-on/latest-news/heritage-open-days-2023/
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The SPANNED Annual Mass, celebrated by Bishop Patrick, takes place at Saint Peter's Church, Leicester Road Hinckley LE10 1LW on Saturday 16th September at 2.30pm. All are welcome. It is good opportunity to discover what the work of SPANNED entails and this year's project "Our House is on Fire" has been a consideration of climate change. You may also subscribe to the agency’s quarterly magazine. SPANNED, which has been in existence since March 1976, is the only organisation of its kind where individual programmes of spiritual formation are written and delivered for people with additional needs, with groups meeting in Hinckley, Derby, Nottingham, Leicester and Scunthorpe. For more details contact Father Frank Daly on 01455 634443 or hinckleypriory@gmail.com
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To celebrate CAFOD’s work in Nottingham Diocese over the last year there will be a short walk and shared picnic on Saturday 23rd September. Meeting at 11.30am at the Wollaton 508 Café (NG8 2AE – car parking is £5 all day, cards only), we will enjoy a 2 mile walk around the lake and grounds, and return to enjoy our shared picnic. Don’t forget to bring your own picnic, chairs, etc, and wear appropriate clothing for the weather! All are very welcome – the more the merrier! RSVP by 15th September to sbarnes@cafod.org.uk
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‘No sacrifice seems too great to follow Him’. The monthly gatherings to discern a vocation to the Priesthood will be starting on Friday 29th September at Holy Spirit, West Bridgford, beginning with Mass at 6pm. For more information email the Vocations Director at vocations@dioceseofnottingham.uk or telephone 01283 564814
Saint Collette's Pregnancy Support Centre (SCPSC) was established to support women who are pregnant in difficult circumstances, and might be considering an abortion. The centre, based in Nottingham, offers practical and emotional support to such women across the East Midlands. SCPSC is seeking to employ a researcher for a six- month project, the purpose of which is to investigate ways of reaching and helping more women. If you are interested in this exciting and positive opportunity, please contact John via email at pro-life@dioceseofnottingham.uk for more information. The deadline for applications is Friday 6th October.
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School admissions to Catholic Secondary Academies (Year 7) - Children born between 01/09/2012 and 31/08/2013. The deadline for submitting your application for a school place is 31st October 2023. Application forms are available on your ‘home’ Local Authority website. For every Catholic school you apply for if you wish your child to be considered and ranked under a faith criterion you should also complete a supplementary information form, and return this form to the school by the deadline, (forms are available from the LA and the school). You MUST also include the supporting evidence as required with this form, eg baptism certificate (photocopies acceptable; if you do not have the evidence contact the parish where your child was baptised for a copy certificate in good time). Failure to supply the required supporting evidence will mean your child is ranked in a lower criterion which may affect your chance of a place.
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Annual Altar Servers Mass
The Guild of Saint Stephen in Nottingham Diocese would like to invite all Altar Servers to join for the Annual Diocesan Servers’ Mass, on Saturday 23rd September at 11.30am at Saint Barnabas Cathedral, Nottingham. The Principal Celebrant will be Bishop Patrick, and all are invited to be part of the day. Please email James Noakes for further details JNoakes@englishmartyrs.org or see the poster in church.
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The Woman at the Well
A day of prayer and reflection for women, is being held on Saturday 30th September from 12.15pm until 4.00pm at The Rosmini Centre, 433 Fosse Way, Ratcliffe-On-The-Wreake LE7 4SJ. The day includes tea/coffee (provided) at 12.15pm, then the Rosary; lunch at 1.00pm (please bring a packed lunch); then at 2.00pm Carmelite author and speaker Dr Cyprian Blamires OCDS: Praying with the Heart; finally a Holy Hour. More information from Paulette: 07825 040375.
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Vocation Day of Discernment
Saturday 7th October from 10.00am until 3.00pm at The Rosmini Centre, 433 Fosse Way, Ratcliffe-On-The-Wreake. LE7 4SJ. There will be the opportunity of talking to Fathers Antonio, Ted, and Philip about the calling to the Religious Life in general, and to the Institute of Charity (Rosminians) in particular: an opportunity to join the Community in prayer, and to ask the Lord for clarity and courage. To book telephone 01509 813078.
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Knights of Saint Columba
On Sunday 27th August, as part of a national tour organised by the Knights of Saint Columba, the relics of three Scottish saints will be visiting our Diocese. The relics of Saint Andrew (apostle, martyr and Patron of Scotland), Saint Columba, and Saint Margaret of Scotland (Patron of Mothers) will arrive at Good Shepherd church, Woodthorpe, prior to 8.00am Mass, and will remain until 6.45pm. The relics will then travel to Our Lady of Lourdes church, Mickleover, for veneration from 9.00am on 29th until 10.30am on 30th. They will then move to Our Lady and Saint Thomas of Hereford, Ilkeston, for 31st August, before leaving the Diocese.
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Pax Christi
At this time we remember the devastation caused in Hiroshima and Nagasaki when the atomic bombs were dropped, on 6 and 9 August 1945, and we pray that nuclear weapons will be abolished so that they can never be used again. In his message, ‘A Culture of Care as a Path to Peace’, Pope Francis asks, ‘How many resources are spent on weaponry, especially nuclear weapons, that could be used for more significant priorities such as ensuring the safety of individuals, the promotion of peace and integral human development, the fight against poverty, and the provision of health care’. In this country we have an active Catholic peace movement in Pax Christi. Their website suggests many ways we can all promote peace in our daily lives, including activities for families to do at home: https://paxchristi.org.uk
A MESSAGE FROM BISHOP PATRICK
Our vision for the Diocese of Nottingham is to become a more outward-looking missionary Catholic community. We are currently reorganising our parish and deanery structures, and to ensure we are supported in mission-focused initiatives the Diocese has launched a Mission Enabling Programme. We must also develop a financial plan, one that is well informed and meets our needs. Therefore after Easter we are commencing a consultative phase, with professional support, to gather opinions from parishioners about our funding strategies. If you are asked please consider giving your views, through a one-to-one conversation or an at-Mass survey. Please also pray for our mission and for this journey of discernment, that we can share the love and message of Christ more widely.
For the full message from Bishop Patrick, visit www.dioceseofnottingham.uk/news/consultation
CITY OF LINCOLN CIVIC SERVICE
St Hugh’s will host the City of Lincoln Civic Service this Sunday, 12th March at 3pm. The Civic Service brings together the Civic Party (Mayor, Sheriff, and their consorts), members of the city council, and invited guests from other local authorities to give thanks for the Civic Year which draws to a close in May. The service will consist of hymns, readings, and prayers, and the school choir from St Peter and St Paul Catholic VoluntaryAcademy will be taking part. Parishioners are invited to attend and also join the guests in the Hall for the hospitality that will be offered after the event.
DEACON JOHN WILFORD’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF ORDINATION
Tuesday, 29th November at 10am in St Hugh’s Church
You are invited to Deacon John Wilford's 25th Anniversary of Ordination to the Diaconate,
starting with 10am Mass at St Hugh's, followed by refreshments in the church hall.
EVERYONE WELCOME!
NOVEMBER BLESSING OF GRAVES
Sunday, 20th
2pm at Nettleham Cemetery
3pm at Canwick
(St Swithin’s - entrance before the crematorium,
near Monsignor Atkinson’s grave).
If you would like your family/friends’ graves blessed
please come along so that we know where they are.
LINCOLN CHORALE CONCERT
“God Save the King” a concert by the Lincoln Chorale conducted by Mark Wilde with Jeffrey Makinson on Organ and The Lindum Baroque Orchestra on 29th October at 7.30pm. The music is all by Handel, including the Coronation Anthems (Zadok the Priest etc), the Ode on the Birthday of Queen Anne and “The Cuckoo and the Nightingale” Organ concerto. Tickets are £20 for the first few rows, or £15 or £5 for full time students from https://www.wegottickets.com/event/558495/ or on the door.
As I was supplying at St Peter and St Paul last Sunday and missed Father Patrick’s farewell Masses, I would like to take this opportunity to record my own appreciation and gratitude for Father Patrick’s ministry at St Hugh’s and in particular for his warm welcome to me when I came to St Hugh’s in February 2021. I hope that many of the initiatives he began, including the African Mass and the Bible Study Group will be able to continue. I join you all in praying for him and wishing him well in his new ministry at Shepshed in Leicestershire.
Fr Eddy.
Mass at St Hugh’s for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
Please join us in St Hugh’s Church at 9am on Monday, 19th September,
when we will celebrate a Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of
Her Majesty the Queen.
Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her.
May she rest in peace. Amen.
“May 'flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest'.”
(William Shakespeare)
Fr Patrick Bassey
Silver Jubilee of Priestley Ordination Mass
Friday, 22nd July 2022 at 7pm
Live Stream
FR PATRICK'S WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY CLASS
in St Hugh's Church Hall
Wenesdays at 7pm
If you can't make it in person please join us via Zoom.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82490208986?pwd=TUltQjVkT2xIeG1rUkZjaFR2dzY0QT09
Meeting ID: 824 9020 8986
Passcode: 142980
CAN YOU HELP!
Hall Committee: We are a ‘small’ group of retired people who arrange and put on parish events eg Harvest Supper, Christmas Party etc., and assist with work in the church and rectory when asked eg painting, gardening etc. We need more people to join the team as the saying goes ‘more hands make light work’ and our hands are dwindling. Please give it some thought and if you would like to join the team speak to Noel either after Mass or give him a ring: 07914 501706 or email: noel.harris@ntlworld.com
Flower Arrangers: Please speak to Liz Thorley if you can help with arranging the church flowers. This is usually done on a Thursday but we are flexible! You can see Liz in the church most days, or contact her by email: ethorley@hotmail.co.uk or leave your details with the parish secretary.
Church Cleaning: We clean the church after the 10am Mass on Thursday. Can you help? If you can please speak to one of the existing team after Thursday Mass - you can tell who they are as they will have a duster or a vacuum cleaner in their hands. Many hands make light work, and we get-together in the church hall afterwards for a cuppa and a chat - we’d love to get to know you! (Members of our Polish community clean the church on the 3rd Sunday of the month; we don’t clean on the Thursday of that week.
Sunday Refreshments: We need more people to join the refreshment rota. Sunday morning Masses only. Email the parish secretary if you can help: email: office@sthughslincoln.org.uk
Our Nottingham Diocesan Synodal Journey
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HwpagkvJ-WeSCLI7KW__VCrH2vulAD0_/view?usp=sharing
MESSAGE FROM BISHOP PATRICK (Friday, 18th March 2022)
To the clergy and faithful of the Diocese of Nottingham
Regarding the situation in Ukraine
Act of Consecration of Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary
In the light of the current crisis unfolding in Ukraine, Pope Francis will lead an Act of Consecration of Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary this coming Friday, 25th March, the Solemnity of the Annunciation, at 5pm Rome time (4pm UK time).
The Bishops of England and Wales, in prayerful solidarity, will make the Act of Consecration in their Cathedrals at some suitable point that day. I will do so at the end of the 1pm Mass (with the Chapter), and I ask that you hold this prayer intention before your parishioners at all Masses on Friday. Please invite the children in their schools and the housebound, who are able, to pray the rosary (or a part of it) that day, so that everyone can be in prayerful solidarity with Pope Francis and the situation facing the people of Ukraine and Russia.
From the Catholic Social Action Network
Below is a link to the CSAN Ukraine Toolkit. This will be continually updated as more information is released by HM Government and other agencies regarding the support of Ukrainians arriving in this country. Please make the link available to parishes and Caritas agencies across the dioceses.
One key piece of advice to parishioners who are applying to host is to link with an organisation with refugee experience. The other main piece of advice is the decision by CSAN to focus on the Reset ‘matching’ service as the one to go to for people who wish to host, and indeed for Ukrainian people to register. There are a few options, but CSAN has decided to back Reset, with its experience of community sponsorship and knowledge in the field.
The weblink for Reset is here: https://www.homesforukraine.org.uk/
The weblink for the CSAN Ukraine Toolkit is here: https://www.csan.org.uk/ukraine/
With prayer and gratitude,
+ Patrick
NOTTINGHAM DIOCESAN DRAFT SYNODAL RESPONSE
(click on heading for link to the page)
CATHOLIC BISHOP'S CONFERENCE OF ENGLAND AND WALES
Guidance for Churches - January 2022
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KUhZISNvympVV4E6_qdQMieSMVEMS2NF/view?usp=sharing
The Synodal Process at St Hugh’S
By the time you read this article we will have had the second of our open parish meetings as part of our synodal journey. Hopefully next week we will be able to provide a summary of our
deliberations and an indication of any proposed actions which we as a parish can undertake to reach out to those who are marginalised or separated from the church.
Of course, not everyone is able to engage with parish meetings for a variety of different reasons. Therefore some people may wish to contribute to the synod process by answering the synod questions on the diocesan web-site: www.dioceseofnottingham.uk/synod2023 If you click on the section ‘Have your say’ you will be taken through to the questions. This would also be a good way to encourage non church going family and friends to have their say in the process.
Pope Francis, Bishop Patrick, and hopefully all of us very much want to hear what they will have to say.
A reminder that the questions are:
· What is my dream for the Church, for my parish so that it can become more outward
looking and missionary?
· To achieve this what do we need to do differently or stop doing?
· How do I hear and respond to God’s Holy Spirit in my life, what signs of the Spirit at work do I see in the life of our parish?
· What steps may the Holy Spirit be calling us to take, on our journey into God’s future?
· As a parish do we know who are the people who feel marginalised or separated from the parish and society?
· How best can our parish respond? Suggest at least two identifiable ways in which, as a parish, we will reach out and listen to the marginalised or separated.
As you can see the questions go from the open ended to the very specific. It is important that we start from our dreams for the Church, but we are also asked to arrive at some definite actions that we as a parish will be able to take over the coming weeks and months.
You can also follow the Synodal process by following the QR code above.
The Synodal Process at St Hugh’s
As a parish we have begun making our contributions to the diocesan phase of the Synodal
Process. Our first meeting was on Tuesday November 2nd, and we thank those who could make it. Attendance was very encouraging, though we are ready to welcome even more people in the next meetings.
It was observed by many during the meeting that our parish is blessed with rich cultural and
national diversity, and that we are a friendly parish with a welcoming and strong community
spirit. The children liturgy and the increasing presence and participation of young adults give both dynamism and hope to our parish life.
It was also observed that in spite of this general atmosphere of familyhood, the Masses are dull at times and a few people still feel marginalized or prefer to be uninvolved spectators who just
worship and hurriedly go away.
It was agreed that concerted efforts should be made to give all a sense of belonging, integration and commitment. Also, the liturgy should be made more vibrant with music for the active
participation of all. The parish should engage more in outreach program to the sick, housebound and those parishioners who find it difficult to attend church, as well as the homeless and charity
organisations in the community. This could be one way of practicing what we hear in church.
Please join us as we continue to ask: 1) What is my dream for the Church, for my parish so
that it can be more outward looking and missionary? 2) To achieve this what do we need to do differently or stop doing? 3) How do I hear and respond to God’s Holy Spirit in my life, what signs of the Spirit at work do I see in the life of the parish? 4) What steps may the Holy Spirit be calling us to take, on our Journey to God’s future? 5)As a parish do we know who are the
people who feel marginalised or separated from the parish as a society? 6) How best can our parish respond? Suggest at least two identifiable ways in which, as a parish, we will reach out and listen to the marginalised or separated.
The next two meetings take place in St Hugh’s church hall on Saturday, 13th November at 12noon, and Tuesday, 30th November at 10.30am. If you didn’t attend the first meeting please try to attend one of the remaining meetings (or both).
The synodal process invited us to journey together, and you can also answer the questions raised via the diocesan website: www.dioceseofnottingham.uk/synod2023 or by following the QR code above.
Sir Edward Leigh MP our guest speaker on the topic of Faith and Politics. 29th October 2021
Questions were asked from written submissions and the attendees. The overall response was that a politician has a responsibility to the majority view. Notwithstanding that, a politician has a duty to pursue the concerns of each and every constituent no matter what their political persuasion. However, in extremis the politician would be obliged to follow what they perceive to be the overriding view of the majority.
That was how I interpreted Sir Edward’s response following my reading out to him the questions that had been posed.
It was a very interesting evening. Two major factors were brought to the floor that certainly illustrated the potential, if not actual, conflict between faith and politics.
The first was assisted dying, euthanasia. The second; on demand abortion at any time before birth. Needless to state that there was plenty of discussion. The general view was that neither was in the public interest or in accord with the principles of faith.
A further meeting with the same topic and a different member of parliament will take place in the New Year. Perhaps parishioners will be able to attend that meeting. Our meeting coordinator will keep you informed as to when it is.
Yours fraternally
Terence P O’Halloran ChFP FCII BSc (Hons) President Lincoln Catenian Circle
Message from Fr Matthew
"I would like to thank everybody who attended my leaving Mass on Thursday. I found the occasion very moving.
Thanks also for the very kind collection for me which is very much appreciated.
Please remember to keep me in your prayers and I will keep you in mine."
(The photo below shows a few of the people who were at Fr Matthew's Mass - including Merdyn his dog!
The Synodal Process at St Hugh’S
As a parish we have been asked to contribute to the diocesan phase of the Synodal Process which has now begun. Bishop Patrick has asked all parishes and chaplaincies to make tome to consider the following questions over the next few weeks.
· What is my dream for the Church, for my parish so that it can become more outward
looking and missionary?
· To achieve this what do we need to do differently or stop doing?
· How do I hear and respond to God’s Holy Spirit in my life, what signs of the Spirit at work do I see in the life of our parish?
· What steps may the Holy Spirit be calling us to take, on our Journey into God’s future?
· As a parish do we know who are the people who feel marginalised or separated from the parish and society?
· How best can our parish respond? Suggest at least two identifiable ways in which, as a parish, we will reach out and listen to the marginalised or separated.
As you can see the questions go from the open ended to the very specific. It is important that we start from our dreams for the Church, but we are also asked to arrive at some definite actions that we as a parish will be able to take over the coming weeks and months.
In order that we may consider these matters together there will be three parish open meetings, taking place at different times with the hope that everyone might be able to get to at least one of the meetings. The dates and times are:
Tuesday 2 November at 7.30pm (after Mass for All Souls Day).
Saturday 13 November at 12 noon (after Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament)
Tuesday 30 November at 10.30am (after morning Mass)
The synodal process invites us to journey together but if for some reason people wish to respond individually to the questions, they can do so through the diocesan web site: www.dioceseofnottingham.uk/synod2023 or by following the QR code above.
THE SYNODAL PATHWAY BEGINS - WE ARE INVITED TO JOURNEY TOGETHER
This Sunday Pope Francis will launch a time of listening and discernment in preparation for the next worldwide Synod of Bishops in October 2023. This process will have a ‘diocesan phase’ which Bishop Patrick will launch this weekend by means of a pastoral letter. We will also have a special hour of prayer at 5pm prior to the usual 6pm Mass this Sunday.
FR PATRICK’S SUNDAY REFLECTION - 29TH SUNDAY OF THE YEAR
‘To practice environmental Justice’, and ‘To conserve the environment for use by future generations’. These would serve as our sixth and seventh ecological work of mercy. The Psalm today reiterates that the earth is filled with God’s kindness and mercy, and that God ‘loves
justice and right’. In God’s Oikos (household) therefore, Mercy, Justice and Righteousness are the underlying virtues for an integral ecology. Our attempts to safeguard a home for all God’s creatures, ‘must integrate questions of justice…, so we can hear both the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor’. (Pope Francis). The earth’s resources are the common patrimony of all.
Environmental justice and righteous living will entail that: the benefits and burdens of the
environment are shared equitably. In the face of the prevalent global inequality, environmental justice demands that our use of the earth’s resources should not deprive others the use of these resources. Equally, no one should be allowed to suffer the consequences of environmental
degradation or resource depletion more than others. It is also the demand of justice that we
observe the precautionary principle of forestalling any possible negative effects of human
activities on the environment whether the impacts of these actions are fully known in the present or not. This is true not only for technological innovations in the production of goods and
services, but also even in the formulation of global economic and political policies. Victims
of environmental pollution caused by multinational companies must be adequately compensated and their land rehabilitated, just as the polluters must be held accountable. The sustainable use
of earth’s resources implies too the needs of the future generation are taken into serious
consideration. We must take concrete steps to leave an environment fit for their own habitation. Intergenerational justice and ‘solidarity are not optional, but rather a basic question of justice, since the world we have received also belongs to those who will follow us. It is an ‘ecological holocaust’ and grave injustice when multinational companies employ in poor developing
countries, extraction and production patterns that fall below globally approved standards and are even unacceptable in their home countries. The debt profile of many developing nations today would never allow them to grow out of poverty and underdevelopment. It is grave injustice
to continue the present global structure/policy of loans from international donors without an
accompanying moral obligation to monitor their use.
Please join Fr Patrick for the final Reflection Service on the theme of ‘Living simply,
sustainably and in solidarity’. Which will take place in St Peter and St Paul Parish Hall on Wednesday, 20th October at 7pm. You are all invited!
27th Sunday of the year B
Our 5th ecological work of mercy is to reduce our ecological footprints. Technically, ecological footprints refer to the overall human impact on the ecosystem over a period of time through our production, consumption and waste disposal patterns and through the size of human population. As the prevailing culture of materialism and compulsive consumerism continues to increase, as the “throwaway culture” continues unabated, the end would not be in sight for the increase in our ecological footprints. The same would happen if economic growth remains the only indices of human development. The overriding motif here is that we are to live simply in such a way that we do not leave undue strain on the earth whether in terms of the waste and pollution we generate or the resources we extract from the earth. As world leaders gather for the COP15 on biodiversity this October and COP 26 on Climate Change in November, we pray that their secret thoughts, emotions, and attitude towards humanity and towards nature as a whole be moulded and guided by God’s wisdom even in their quest for scientific methods to achieve environmental sustainability. We pray that we may become more aware of the ‘shortness of our lives’, the precariousness of the global environmental crises, so that we may be wise enough to allow His word to become our moral compass and our inspiration to live simply towards achieving sustainable wealth creation and development for all. Jesus makes it clear that living simply not only makes wealth available for the poor but also makes it easy for us to attain the life God intends for all. The net zero carbon emission initiative is a path in the right direction, but we must not forget that technology transfer much more than aid can help poorer nations pursue the I.5carbon target of the Paris agreement. Fr Patrick.
LIST OF ITEMS FOR YMCA/NOMAD TRUST
If you can help by donating one or more items, it would be much appreciated.
Deodorant both sexes.
Sleeping bags
Rain Jackets
Socks
Gloves
Spoons (Tea and Dessert)
Umbrellas
Bike Locks
Hand warmers (disposable)
Hand soap (liquid)
Non-perishable food items
Please put your items inside the Tent.
Thank you for your support.
COVID UPDATE
As the restrictions on Covid ease the parish team are constantly reviewing our procedures to ensure the minimum of restrictions consistent with our safety. We are now having singing at some Masses and altar servers will be coming back onto the sanctuary soon. We are hoping to restart a formal reader's rota for Sunday Masses and anyone wishing to become a reader should speak to a member of the Clergy. We will also start inviting thecongregation to offer a sign of peace. A physical sign should only be made with familymembers with a gesture or smile being made to others in the congregation. We would remind you that communion in the hand is the preferred way of receiving but if you wish to receive the Blessed Sacrament on the tongue please come up at the end of the line and allow the minister time to sanitise their hands. Deacon Kevin
HOMILY FOR THE 26TH SUNDAY OF THE YEAR (26th September 2021)
As we continue in our theme for the Season of Creation, today’s second reading from the letter of St James reminds us about our responsibilities for those around us. When we consider the impacts of our actions on the environment and the world around us we need to be mindful of the implications of our lifestyles both here and now, but more-so into the future.
It is now over 6 years since Pope Francis published his encyclical Laudato Si – on care of our common home, where he examined issues of consumerism and irresponsible development, as well as lamenting the impact that society has had on the environment and of global warming and urged all people of the world to take swift and global action.
Pope Francis reportedly has said that the encyclical was not really an environmental document at all. The warming of the planet is a symptom of a greater problem: the developed world's indifference to the destruction of the planet as they pursue short-term economic gains. This has resulted in a “throwaway culture” in which unwanted items and unwanted people, are discarded as waste.
The real problem he said lies in the fact that humans no longer see God as the Creator.
Thus we see "other living beings as mere objects subjected to arbitrary human domination" and do not realize that "the ultimate purpose of other creatures is not found in us." The Pope says that instead of viewing humanity as having "dominion" over the earth, we must see that everything is interconnected and that all of creation is a "kind of universal family". Nature cannot be seen as something apart from humanity, or merely the place where we live.
So as we consider our responsibilities for taking care of God’s creation, maybe this is an opportune moment to reconsider how we in our own homes and lives can and will protect God’s gift to us. Greta Thunberg, the Swedish environmental campaigner is now probably best known for challenging world leaders to take immediate action on climate change, but before her rise to fame, her activism started at home by persuading her parents to adopt lifestyle choices that reduced their own families carbon footprint.
We recognise that to do nothing now is not an option. As St James puts it, if we continue to live a life of comfort and luxury we will be responsible for condemning those around us and for generations to come. And like Greta this change has to start close to home.
In the Church we often use symbols as a focus for an event or something which is taking place, This Season of Creation, it has been suggested that one such symbol should be a tent, representing “Abraham’s tent”. A tent represents a sign of hospitality for all beings who are excluded, and could maybe be a focus to remind us to pray with and for the vulnerable and the homeless. The tent could also be a symbol of our goal to create a home for all, regardless of race, creed, colour or social status. This is particularly pertinent as we seek to support refugee’s fleeing from Afghanistan and other areas of conflict. We often see tented villages and towns springing up after natural disasters have occurred and more so when we now see more extreme weather events fuelled by global warming, so the tent also represents survival, and meets the basic human need for shelter.
The tent is also a sign of simplicity. Particularly among young people, the tent and the backpack symbolize what is essential, sufficiency, living within our means, and travelling lightly upon the Earth.
As you will see, we have pitched our tent here in the church as a symbol of the Season of Creation and I would encourage as you bring along items which may be used to help those less fortunate than yourself and place them in our tent, but more than that, as you look at it, to consider and pray for what it means to you.
In our scripture readings today, we heard about the two men, Eldad and Medad who remained in the “camp” prophesying in the power of God’s Spirit. Then in the gospel, we equally hear about men outside the group of Christ’s disciples preaching and casting out demons both in the power of the Holy Spirit, and in the name of Jesus Christ. In both cases we see the zealous and envious disciples getting afraid and worried.
They were afraid that these men outside of the ‘chosen group’ were threats to their mission and position. So, instead of seeing them as fellow workers in God’s mission, they became jealous and despised them. They thought that God’s spirit and mission solely belonged to them. Unfortunately, they were wrong.
Moses and Jesus refused to accept their fears, jealousy and request of their disciples to stop them. Being filled with the spirit of God themselves, Moses and Jesus wisely discerned and knew that these men were genuine. Their mission was in line with the will of God; That all men should receive His spirit and preach the good news.
Hence, Moses responded: “…If only the whole people of the Lord were prophets and, the Lord gave his Spirit to them all.” While Jesus told his disciples: “You must not stop him; No one who works a miracle in my name is likely to speak evil of me.” So, for Moses and Jesus, it was a good development and they were against the spirit of envy and oppression.
There are several lessons for us from these two readings;
· First, God can and does choose and use anyone He wishes for His mission.
· Second, He gives his Spirit freely for the continued growth and development of his church on earth.
· Third, nothing can stop whoever God truly anoints for his mission.
· Fourth we must not be jealous or envious of the gift of others. Rather, we should see one another as companions in God’s mission.
With this in mind, our response to todays readings in our lives today would be to be mindful about how we view and respond to people who we view as different, maybe by the way they look or speak or by what they represent or because they belong to different faith and belief groups. Much can be learnt from all people who have been charged with taking forward God’s mission and care must be taken not to consider a singular religious or world view. Likewise we need to be open to considering different points of view and challenging our perceptions and responsibilities for the common good of all God’s people.
Deacon David Knight
Pulpit Announcement for Sunday 18 July 2021
As you will no doubt be aware tomorrow England moves into ‘step 4’ of the easing of lockdown restrictions and it is an opportunity for us to review and change some of the measures we are currently taking at St Hugh’s. We are sure you are also aware that the number of cases is currently increasing and whatever we do we must do carefully and cautiously, and always acting with concern for the wellbeing others especially those who are most at risk.
From next Sunday we will revert back to having Masses at 8.30am, 10.00am, and 6.00pm. We will also increase the capacity of the church by restoring the majority of the benches back to their original positions.
Following the advice received at national and diocesan level we will maintain the current level of social distancing in the front section of the church. Hence there will be a small number of seats at the front of the church that will still maintain a 2-metre distance from other households and these need to be booked in advance by phoning the parish office certainly before 3pm on Thursday. Seats in the rest of the church do not now need to be booked in advance.
We are still strongly urged to keep a record of all those who come to Mass to support the NHS track and trace system. Hence when you arrive at church you will be given a slip of paper on which to write your contact details which we will retain for 21 days.
We are required to maintain our current systems for hand hygiene, ventilation, and church cleaning, and we strongly urge everyone to continue to wear face coverings unless you are medically exempt from doing so.
We will make some changes to the way we currently celebrate our Masses, most notably we will resume people coming up to the altar row by row to receive Holy Communion. People are still recommended to receive Holy Communion in the hand but those who wish to receive on the tongue may once again do so. We will also resume passing the collection baskets around the church rather than taking the collection as people depart.
Other changes will follow later in the summer, including hopefully the resumption of congregational singing and the resumption of tea and coffee in the hall after Mass. We hope to welcome back our altar servers once the new school year begins.
We would like to thank everyone for their support and co-operation throughout the pandemic and to urge us all to remain careful and vigilant as legal restrictions ease. Even if we are no longer required to do certain things by the law, our concern for the wellbeing of others should urge us to go beyond the letter of the law to keep one another safe and well.
Finally, we need volunteers to help with putting back the benches and giving the church a good clean on Tuesday evening at 6pm, all are welcome!
With our prayers and blessings,
Parish Clergy
TOWER FUND MY GIVING LINK
Work has begun to restore the tower at St Hugh's, in Lincoln! Throughout 2021, they aim to complete as much of the work as possible to ensure the tower is both safe and retains its character as a Grade II listed building. If you would like to contribute financially to the works currently being undertaken, please post any donations in an envelope marked ‘St Hugh’s Tower Fund' St Hugh's Church, Broadgate, Lincoln, LN2 5AQ or by donating here: https://tinyurl.com/szwj8r4t
ST HUGH'S PARISH IS ON FACEBOOK!
ST HUGH'S TOWER RESTORATION UPDATE - JUNE 2021
drive.google.com/file/d/10y93q-95vVVcOrYCSP3PiI68ljJ1LD4N/view?usp=sharing
STATEMENT ON THE MARRIAGE OF BORIS JOHNSON AND CARRIE SYMONDS AT WESTMINSTER CATHEDRAL
ST FRANCIS CHAPEL OF EASE, BARDNEY
Extracts from a decree of Bishop Patrick regarding St Francis of Assisi Bardney:
Whereas a church, which is a sacred building intended for divine worship may be allowed by the Bishop to be transferred to a secular but not unbecoming purpose if grave reasons suggest that it should no longer be used for divine worship;
And whereas the Reverend Matthew Jakes, the then Parish Priest of the Parish of Saint Hugh of Lincoln, Lincoln with Saint Francis, Bardney, petitioned me requesting that the Church be so transferred;
And whereas the Council of Priests was consulted regarding the proposed transfer on 15 February 2021, and gave its approval to the proposed transfer;
And whereas there is no one who could claim rights over the church, and the good of souls would not be harmed by the transfer since there will still be one church within the parish;
I, the undersigned Right Reverend Patrick Joseph McKinney, Bishop of Nottingham, in accordance with Canon 1222, do hereby decree:
That the Church of Saint Francis, situated in Station Road, Bardney be transferred to secular but not unbecoming use;
That this decree shall come into effect on Tuesday 31 August.
And that administrative recourse may be made in accordance with the prescriptions of Canons 1732-1739;
Given at Nottingham on 16 April 2021 and made public on Sunday 23 May 2021.
+ Patrick
Right Reverend Patrick McKinney, Bishop of Nottingham
A copy of the full text of the decree is available from the parish office at St Hugh’s
Pastoral Letter for the 7th Sunday of Easter - Diocesan Safeguarding Sunday
drive.google.com/file/d/1On3r5MfX9Lxq-GzEYb9g8zbTDtEB0mSu/view?usp=sharing
CATHOLIC BISHOPS’ CONFERENCE OF ENGLAND AND WALES
Reflection by the Bishops of England and Wales
The Day of the Lord
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XOVa5v0eUfDWraBEDuwH7X7U2U-pCp8v/view?usp=sharing
EASTER TRIDUUM
Our Easter Services are now fully booked but you can view them online using the following links:
Holy Week at St Hugh's will also be available on our livestream channel using the following links which are also available via the parish website:
Palm Sunday 10am: https://youtu.be/Dl6syftcsTM
Maundy Thursday 7pm: https://youtu.be/nsWisMDrwsQ
Good Friday 3pm: https://youtu.be/-a123xzmJL4
Easter Vigil Saturday 7pm: https://youtu.be/lXrTZ7ufbMs
Easter Sunday 10.45am: https://youtu.be/nNEJCYmvEC4
CHURCH TOWER UPDATE
CHURCH TOWER UPDATE
The Diocesan Building and Sites Commission have given the go ahead for the work on the church tower to proceed and the scaffolding company will be on site this week to build up the scaffolding to the top of the tower. Hopefully the necessary work can be done during the summer months. I am sure people will have a number of questions about what this all means: Please do not enter the site area without checking with the workers on site.
How much will it cost? The contract price, reconfirmed by the main contractor, is £315,000 + VAT + professional fees. As the church is a listed building we will be able to reclaim the VAT but adding in professional fees we can expect a cost of about £350,000.
Where will the money come from? Despite our best efforts it is clear that we will not be eligible for any ‘lottery heritage funding’. As a parish we can commit £150,000 from
our ‘savings’ whilst still retaining some money (£20,000) for any unexpected but
necessary expenditure in the coming years. Thank you to all who have helped with fund raising so far, your efforts over the past 2 years have brought in approximately £34,000 for the Tower Fund and this has reduced the amount that we will need to borrow.
How will we borrow the remainder of the money? The diocese is offering us a ‘hybrid’ loan. The first £60,000 we will repay as a conventional diocesan loan over 15 years. Based on current interest rates this will mean a repayment of just short of £5,000 per year. Paying off this part of the loan will need to be a major focus for parish fund raising over the coming years. The remainder of the money (anything up to £140,000) will be lent to us from the ‘poor and needy parishes fund’ on an indefinite and interest free basis. We would repay this from any capital receipts (e.g. legacies) that might come into the parish over the coming years. If there are no such receipts then as a last resort consideration would be given to the rental or the sale of the Rectory to pay
off this debt.
I know it will come as a shock to move overnight from being a parish with savings in the bank to being a parish in debt to the diocese, however the work to the tower is
necessary and can’t be delayed any longer. I hope we can work together as a parish
to pay off the debt we will incur. I hope too that others in the city and beyond who
appreciate St Hugh’s will help us. However it is also important that as a parish we do not lose sight of other matters and not least the importance of being outward looking and missionary as we are being called to be, not only by our diocesan Bishop and by Pope Francis, but above all by the Lord himself.
With good wishes and prayers, Fr Eddy.
EASTER TRIDUUM
To book your Masses for Holy Week please use this link: EasterBookings@sthughslincoln.org.uk
IMPORTANT information: Holy Week and Easter 2021
We are thankful that this year we will be able to celebrate our Easter Triduum (Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil) as well as our Easter Sunday Masses together in St Hugh’s. However we will have to strictly adhere to the guidelines for social distancing and therefore places will be limited. In order to allow as many people as possible to attend we will be putting on some additional services, as well as adjusting times of Masses on Easter Sunday as follows:
1st April, Maundy Thursday 7pm
2nd April, Good Friday 3pm and 7pm
3rd April, Holy Saturday 7pm
4th April, Easter Sunday 8am, 9.15am, 10.45am and 6pm
In order to book a place at any of the above listed times we have set up a dedicated email address which is available from now. Please send an email to the following address:
EasterBookings@sthughslincoln.org.uk
Your email MUST contain the following information:
• The Service or Services you wish to attend,
• The names of all individuals who will be attending
• A contact telephone number for our track and trace records
Please note bookings WILL NOT be accepted for anyone outside your own household.
If you are unable to email your booking then please contact the parish office between 9am and 3pm on Mondays-Thursdays only.
Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis, and you will be contacted to confirm if you have secured your requested seats or where possible offering an alternative.
Unfortunately once a service is fully booked we will not be permitted to add additional people into the church on the day.
Please continue to book places at all other Sunday and weekday masses (including Palm Sunday) using the usual tickets@sthughslincoln.org.uk email address.
Fr Eddy’s Homily for Reception into Church and Vigil Mass for Deacon Peter Brogan RIP
In the few minutes that I have available this evening I am not able to give a full account of Peter’s life and ministry, and I am conscious that his children have prepared a eulogy which we will hear at the end of our Mass. However I would like to share a few thoughts based around the readings that Mary and the family have chosen for this Mass.
The First reading (Wisdom 4:7-15) speaks about the virtuous man who dies before his time. Peter was a virtuous man, and by the law of averages we can say that he died before his time. After all, 67 is these days a young age to die, and I am sure that Mary, his children, and his grandchildren, had hopes and indeed reasonable expectations of many more years of Peter’s company. But they, and others, will have heard Peter say on more than one occasion, ‘If the Lord wants me, I am ready’. Although Peter may have died suddenly, he was not unprepared. Perhaps we can truly apply some the sentiments of this reading to him, ‘He has sought to please God, so God has loved him’ … ‘his soul being pleasing to the Lord, he has taken him quickly’ … ‘grace and mercy await the chosen of the Lord, and protection his holy ones’.
The Second Reading (1 John 3:1-2) contains a phrase often used by Peter, ‘we are already the children of God’. This was part of his underlying attitude to life, that we are all
children of God. This helped Peter to welcome and accept all people from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and faiths. Although quite conventional and even traditional in his own outlook, he would happily interact with anyone that life brought him into contact with. Whether in his working life in the fire service, or his ministry in parish and school, I am sure he would have faced many difficult and challenging situations, and he was able to face them with the faith and confidence that comes from knowing deep down that he and everyone is loved by God. Moreover as this reading reminds us, we can rejoice not only in what we have now, but also in what is promised to us for the future, that ‘we shall see God as he really is’. Our prayer for Peter tonight and tomorrow is that he is already experiencing this reality.
In the Gospel Reading (John 6:51-58) Jesus promises that whoever does ‘eat my flesh and drink my blood has eternal life’. Peter not only attended Mass on a Sunday but he tried
to attend Mass and receive Holy Communion each and every day. When he was working on the school minibuses he would often come into Mass at St Peter and St Paul once he had completed his morning duties. I understand that Peter was at Mass and at Holy Communion here at St Hugh’s on the morning of his death, the best reassurance that he was indeed prepared and ready to meet the Lord when the Lord called him to himself later that day.
The Responsorial Psalm, which is based on Psalm 103, also contains a word for us tonight. Even in our sorrow and sadness we are invited to ‘Bless the Lord and worship his holy name’. Peter’s earthly journey and ministry is over. As a deacon he proclaimed the Gospel in word and deed, he had a heart for the poor and vulnerable, and he assisted at the liturgy of the church as befitted his role as a deacon. He now takes his place in the liturgy of heaven. There he will be ‘blessing the Lord and worshipping his holy name’. I am sure his word to us now would be another of his favourite phrases, ‘God is good!’ and that he would invite us to join with him in singing the praises of God who has safely gathered
Peter to himself and one day will gather us to himself too.
REVEREND DEACON PETER BROGAN RIP
MESSAGE FROM FR EDDY
"When I became aware that I was to move to St Hugh’s one of the things I was looking forward to was the opportunity to work together with Deacon Peter Brogan who I had known for many years. The Lord had other plans and sadly one of my first duties at St Hugh’s will be to preside at his funeral liturgies.
Peter was ordained a deacon in the same year that I was ordained a priest (1993) and our paths have often crossed at diocesan events and gatherings. During my time at St Peter and St Paul I would often see Peter at daily Mass and he would always be willing to help with funerals, baptisms, and anything else that was required. However I do know that his great love was for St Hugh’s and that it is here that he was most active in ministry and I am sure that many of you will have reason to be grateful for the ways he will have supported you and your families in happy times and in sad times.
Peter’s funeral liturgies take place on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week. In normal times we would expect to have a packed church, however the Covid rules mean that we are limited to a congregation of 30 and attendance in person can only be by invitation."
We will be streaming Peter's Reception into Church on Tuesday evening at 6pm, and his Requiem Mass on Wednesday at 10am. If you would like to attend virtually you can do so through via the following links. Live streaming will commence 5 minutes before the planned start time of each event.
Reception into Church: https://youtu.be/0tNx2a92vMA
Requiem Mass: https://youtu.be/FlBCW_LyC6w
ALL CHANGE AT ST HUGH’S!
Bishop Patrick has asked Fr Matthew to become Parish Priest of the four parishes of Holy Souls, and St Bernadette’s, Scunthorpe, St Norbert’s Crowle, and St Thomas of Canterbury, Gainsborough. It is a huge responsibility, and he will be assisted by Fr Liam Carpenter. Fr Matthew will be leaving St Hugh’s the week beginning 15th February. Hopefully sometime in the future we will be able to welcome Fr Matthew back for a ‘farewell’ Mass, and s party in the church hall.
Our new Parish Priest will be Canon Edward Jarosz (Fr Eddy) who will reside at St Hugh’s Rectory with Fr Patrick assisting him. Fr Eddy will also remain the Parish Priest of St Peter and St Paul Church, Lincoln, where he will be assisted by Canon Geoffrey Hunton.
Whilst we are all sad to hear that Fr Matthew is leaving us, we are very glad that Canon Eddy is our new priest and welcome him to his new home when he takes up his ministry at St Hugh’s at the beginning of Lent.
If someone in your household displays symptoms of Covid19, then please stay at home. If you are in the shielding category, then please continue to protect yourself by staying at home as per government guidance, and praying for the Parish community.
PRAYER FOR PRIESTLY AND RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS
Almighty God, we pray, give us holy priests to strengthen us in our Christian calling,
that we may be more closely conformed to Christ and share more effectively in his saving work.
Through their ministry at the altar, and by their administration of the sacraments,
may our lives be sanctified and become more closely associated with the redemptive sacrifice of Christ.
As they preach the Gospel and teach the faith may we be inspired to dedicate ourselves to the work of evangelisation.
As they serve our parishes may we be led into deeper communion of faith, hope and charity.
O God, bless our diocese also with men and women who will serve the mission of the Church
by taking religious vows, inspiring us with lives consecrated to you.
Mary Immaculate - pray for us, Saint Hugh of Lincoln - pray for us,
all the saints of our Diocese - pray for us. Amen.
OFFICIAL PRAYER OF THE YEAR
Living God, you walk alongside us and speak to us throughout the Scriptures.
Your Son, Jesus Christ, listens to our hopes and fears and shows us how to live for one another.
Send us the Holy Spirit to open our hearts and minds so that we may be your witnesses
throughout the world. Amen.
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