Reflection
The widow’s mite comes in different ways. This widow’s generosity has become a symbol of true Christian generosity, in giving to the point where it pains; where giving becomes a sacrifice. We give it, wherever we are prepared to give our very best. The very best we give in the love of husband and wife. The very best we give in the priesthood or Religious life. The very best we give in the service of others, wherever that may be: at home, in school, in our place of work, in the service of our community, that is the widow’s mite.
Remembering the courage of 1944
This year marks the 80th anniversaries of momentous battles and turning points of the Second World War. The D-Day landings of 6th June – the largest seaborne invasion in history – marked the beginning of the liberation of western Europe. Elsewhere on the globe exceptionally hard-fought battles were also turning the tide of the war. The Battle of Monte Cassino was the bloodiest of the Italian Campaign and in India Outnumbered British and Indian forces withstood weeks of siege and brutal fighting at the Battles of Kohima and Imphal. The Royal British Legion remembers the service and sacrifice of British and Commonwealth armed forces in these and other battles. The vital contribution of men and women from South Asia is also explored in our pages for South Asian Heritage Month.
Memorial Mass
Our annual Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday 16th November at 11am. This is when we invite the families of those who have died in the last year to come and remember them and pray for them during this special Mass. Everyone in the Parish is welcome to join us and pray for their own deceased family members.
Deanery Advent Retreat
A Deanery retreat will take place at St Edmund of Canterbury church, Waterloo, on Saturday 30th November 2024. It will begin at 10am and finish at 2:30pm.
All are welcome. A light lunch will be required.
Funerals
The funeral Service for Bernie Shaw will take place here in St James’ on Wednesday 13th November at 11.45am.
Please remember Bernie and her family in your prayers.
The funeral Mass for Sue Hurley will take place here in St James’ on Friday 15th November at 11.30am.
Please pray for the repose of Sue’s soul and the comfort of her family.