29th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

James and John were two opportunists. Their one aim was to rise in the ranks. To achieve their end they did not hesitate to beg. They did not mind how much envy and resentment they aroused in their companions. Their aim was to scramble up the career ladder. But at what price to themselves? In the course of their rise to the top, people lose themselves, their own souls, whatever they do or achieve will be worthless. Power hardens the human heart.


World Mission Sunday 

Today, parishes worldwide celebrate World Mission Sunday. By supporting Missio, the Pope’s charity for world mission, we stand united as God’s global family, in prayer, solidarity, and action. We are called to ‘go and invite everyone to the banquet’ for the joy of Christ’s Resurrection is a gift meant to be shared with the entire world. Please pray for missionaries and give what you can to this vital collection, bringing God’s compassion, peace, and justice to those in need. To donate, use the Missio envelope, call 020 7821 9755 (office hours) or click the link below to donate.


Assisted suicide bill 

MPs are preparing to vote before Christmas on a Bill that, if passed, will legalise assisted suicide. The introduction of the Bill comes at a time when many elderly people are heading into winter with their Winter Fuel Payment cut by the Government. Palliative care services are in crisis with over 100,000 people dying each year without receiving the palliative care they desperately need. Within this context, this proposed assisted suicide law is a disaster waiting to happen.
Click the link below to ask your MP to stop assisted suicide being rushed into law.
Click here to watch actor and disability rights advocate Liz Carr’s BBC documentary on assisted suicide, Better Off Dead? where she examines the impact of one of the world’s most extreme assisted suicide laws in Canada.


SVP 

Two weeks ago, members of the SVP renewed their oath and had their hands anointed. Thank you for your support, you were all remembered in our Mass. We will be giving out our report of works done in due course. Please keep us in your prayers, God bless Ann Kirby and St James’ SVP

Funeral Service 

The funeral service for Peter Banks will take place here in St James’ on Friday 25th October at 12 noon.
Please remember Peter and his family in your prayers.