St James Bootle
33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
St James Bootle
32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
St James Bootle
31st Sunday in Ordinary Time
31st Sunday in Ordinary Time
St James Bootle
30th Sunday in Ordinary Time
30th Sunday in Ordinary Time
St James Bootle
29th Sunday in Ordinary Time
29th Sunday in Ordinary Time

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

Dear Lord, thank you for the gift of Catholic education. Thank you for all those who have given their talents to educating our young people. Through the challenges they encounter each day, lead them to an ever deeper appreciation of the sacred duty to which you have called them. Thank you for all those who contribute to the efficient running of our Catholic education sector: chaplains, support staff, kitchen staff, maintenance staff, governors and trustees. We thank them for all their hard work and dedication. Thank you for all the leaders of Catholic education. May they be people of integrity so that they can be witnesses as well as teachers. We pray that the schools they lead will become places where our young people can experience your love in their lives. Thank you for our pupils and students. May your love strengthen and nurture them through the influence and example of those who care for them. We pray that through their time at school and university they will flourish and grow to discover who you have called them to be. We make this prayer through your Son, Jesus Christ, our teacher and our Lord.
Amen

Pray and Picnic in the Park 

This event, in support of Aid to the Church in Need, will be held on Sunday 15th September at St John’s gardens, William Brown Street, L1 1HF
It starts with Rosary at 1:30pm and Mass at 2pm celebrated by Bishop Tom Neylon followed by Liverpool Irish choir and dancers and Chinese dance display and workshop.
Entry is free but if you wish to reserve a place contact Rachel Buckley on 07496 443736 or email
Rachel.buckley@acnuk.org
Bring a picnic and something to sit on.

Open Evening at the Salesian Academy of Saint John Bosco 

The next Open Evening at The Salesian Academy of St John Bosco will include a welcome from our Headteacher, a tour of school and the chance to explore our excellent facilities, with exciting activities on offer across all departments. 
Come along for a full tour of school, find out about the new build, and take part in exciting activities on offer across all departments. Thursday, 19th September 2024, 4pm-7pm.
Click the link below to register.

Could you be a Deacon? Diaconate Information Evenings 

The Archbishop will be hosting two Diaconate Information Evenings during the next few months: Thursday 5th December at Bishop Eton in Liverpool and Thursday 23rd January at St John’s in Wigan. Each evening will begin at 7.30pm, with refreshments available from 7.00pm and will end by 9.00pm.

The evenings are open to anyone who would like to find out more about the diaconate, especially men who are wondering if they may be called to this ministry. Wives and supporting priests and deacons are also very welcome. For more information email Deacon Paul Rooney, p.rooney@rcaol.org.uk.

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

Today pollution has become a big issue and rightly so. People want clean water, clean air and clean food. But we should be even more concerned about the most dangerous pollution of all, namely evil.

Pride, anger, hate, lust, greed, envy… All these are dangerous pollutants. So what must we do? We must purify the source; the heart is the source. It is the well-spring from which all our thoughts, words and deeds flow. If the heart is clean, all that flows from it will be clean. Blessed are the clean of heart; they shall see God.



New community members 

This year the Salesian Community will be joined by Fr Hugh Preston and Bro Andre Kankwenda. Fr Hugh has moved in but will be away on a sabbatical until Christmas. He will be helping in the Parish. Bro Andre, from the Congo, will help in the school chaplaincy and in the Parish. It will be great to have them with us, and I’m sure you will give them the usual warm Bootle welcome!


Adoremus Liverpool 

This will take place at the Metropolitan Cathedral on 21 September 2024. The event itself is free and available to all. There will be Eucharistic Adoration throughout the day from 10am until 5pm, Holy Mass, opportunities for confession, a variety of workshops and a shared time of prayer during the day for all. In advance of the Jubilee year 2025, this Adoremus event will reflect on the themes of Care for Creation, Food Poverty, Modern Slavery, Managing Debt, Forgiveness and Rest as well as our own personal concerns and prayers. The workshops provide an opportunity for developing our own spirituality, and to discern what the Jubilee Year might mean for us in our own lives.

Support Saint James’ 

If you would like to donate to our parish it is easy to do. Click the link below and you will be offered a choice of donation amounts. Thank you for your support.

Parish Camp 2024

This summer, St. James' Parish hosted an unforgettable Parish Camp, bringing together young people for two weeks of fun, faith, and friendship. The camp ran from July 25th to 28th and again from August 1st to 4th, and each day was packed with exciting activities and meaningful experiences.

 

Week 1: A Memorable Kick-off

The first week of camp began on the Feast of St James’, the patron Saint of our Parish. We begun with a warm welcome from Fr Jacob and a peaceful morning prayer led by Brother Solomon. We then head to church and joined the parishioners for Mass celebrating the feast of St. James. This was followed by real excitement in the afternoon when we headed to Blackpool Pleasure Beach. The sunny weather made the day perfect for thrilling rides and enjoying a delicious meal together. The joy and laughter shared on the rides created lasting memories for everyone.

On the second day, Brother Malachy led us in a thoughtful morning prayer, and our catechism class focused on the question, "Why did God become man?" The day’s adventure took us to Ninja Warrior Adventure Park, where the young campers showed off their skills on climbing walls, balance beams, and obstacle courses. Many of them took on the challenge of the Warped Wall and Mount Sasuke, making the most of their time in this action-packed environment.

Day three was all about competition and community. We enjoyed a variety of games set up in the lovely gardens of St. James'. Activities included football, UNO, giant connect 4 and much, much more. After the games, we came together for Mass to give thanks for the fun and fellowship we had experienced. At the end of the day we celebrated the achievements of our campers, with a special shout-out to those who excelled in the day’s activities.

The final day of the first week was just as special. Brother David led us in a morning prayer that encouraged us to reflect on how we connect with God through our senses. We then had a catechism session about the importance of baptism and confirmation. The afternoon was filled with fun at Tenpin Centre, where campers enjoyed laser tag, bowling, and a tasty meal. It was a fantastic way to end a week of exciting activities and spiritual growth.

Week 2: New Faces and Fresh Adventures

The second week of camp began with a warm welcome for a new group of young people. Brother Solomon started our day with a heartfelt prayer, setting a positive tone for the week. We continued our tradition of starting each day with a catechism class and then headed to Blackpool Pleasure Beach. The weather was perfect, and everyone enjoyed the rides and the shared meal, creating new memories and friendships.

On the second day of the second week, Brother Malachy’s prayer focused on our dreams and trusting in God to help us achieve them. We spent the rest of the day at Ninja Warrior Adventure Park, where campers had a blast navigating the various obstacles and enjoying the inflatable courses. The Warped Wall and Mount Sasuke proved as challenging as ever, and the energy and enthusiasm were palpable.

Competition Day, which fell on the third day, was a highlight for many. Brother Reuben led us in prayer, and Fr. Jacob gave a catechism class about how Jesus opened heaven for us. After a delicious pizza lunch, we dove into a series of games, from football to UNO and giant connect 4. The day ended with a Mass to celebrate our time together and recognise Ash, who was honoured as the overall winner of the day’s competitions.

The final day of the camp was both exciting and reflective. Brother David led a prayer session about the Church as our ladder to heaven. We then enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon at the Tenpin Centre, where bowling, laser tag, and arcade games brought joy to everyone. It was a fantastic way to conclude the camp, with lots of laughter and shared experiences.

A Heartfelt Thank You

As Parish Camp 2024 came to a close, we took a moment to appreciate the hard work of our parish team and the Salesian brothers who made these two weeks so special. Their dedication ensured that each day was filled with fun, faith, and unforgettable moments. A massive thank you to all benefactors- without your help we wouldn’t be able to run this camp! We are grateful to everyone who participated and helped make this year’s camp a success. We look forward to welcoming even more young people next year for more adventures and spiritual growth. God bless!

18th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

God provided a mysterious food called manna for the Israelites during their time in the desert. However, they were told not to stockpile the manna but to gather only what they needed for one day. Jesus told his disciples not to worry about tomorrow. He said “ When you pray to your heavenly Father, you are to say, ‘Give us this day our daily bread.’” No matter how difficult life may be, for those who trust in God and who live a day at a time, the manna falls every day.

Thanks and good luck 

After a year of friendship and hard work, we say thank you and farewell to Bro Solomon and Bro David, who are leaving the community this week. They are moving on to start their theology studies in London. We thank them for their presence, their friendship and for all the work they have done around the Parish. We ask God to bless them in their studies and future ministry.


Holidays 

Fr Brian will be away on holiday from 6th – 27th August. While he is away, Fr Tony Frain, Fr Bob Gardner and Fr Ste Lloyd will be covering the Parish for a week each. I know you will give them a good St James’ welcome and support them while they are here.

17th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

I lived on the shady side of the road and watched my neighbours’ gardens across the way revelling in the sunshine. I felt I was poor and from door to door went in my hunger. The more they gave me from their careless abundance the more I became aware of my beggar’s bowl. ‘Til one morning I awoke from my sleep at the sudden opening of my door and you came and asked for alms. In despair I broke open the lid of my chest and was startled into finding my own wealth.
Rabindranath Tagore

Parish Camp 

We are pleased to announce that this summer we are once again hosting a Parish Camp, specially designed for the young people of our parish and the Salesian Academy of St John Bosco. We start with daily Mass and reflection with exciting trips, competitions and games organised by our dedicated parish team. The sessions run from 25-28 July and 1-4 August. We look forward to seeing our youth come together to grow in faith, form lasting friendships and create wonderful memories.


The Shaping of Liverpool 

In Another Place are proud to announce that The Shaping of Liverpool, the story of Liverpool in drama, dance and song, will be performed at Salt and Tar, L20 1AA (behind Bootle Strand) on Saturday 3rd August.
There will be three performances at 12pm, 2pm and 4pm
There will be food stalls and activities throughout the day from 12pm—9pm.
Entry is free.


Funeral 

The funeral service for Brian Holland will take place here in St James’ on Thursday 1st August at 12 noon.
Please remember Brian and his family in your prayers.

16th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

Lord, look upon us and take pity on us, for at times we too are like sheep. Save us from a blind following of the herd. Help us to listen to your voice. To trust you and follow you, even if it means leaving the crowd and walking a lonely path. Lead us from fear to trust, from error to truth, from hate to love, from war to peace, from despair to hope and from death to life. Amen

Funerals 

The funeral service for Elizabeth Colton will take place here in St James’ on Tuesday 23rd July at 12.30pm. Please remember Elizabeth and her family in your prayers.
The funeral service for Sheila Berry will take place here in St James’ on Friday 26th July at 1.15pm. Please keep Sheila and her family in your prayers.

The Shaping of Liverpool 

In Another Place are proud to announce that The Shaping of Liverpool, the story of Liverpool in drama, dance and song, will be performed at Salt and Tar, L20 1AA (behind Bootle Strand) on Saturday 3rd August.
There will be three performances at 12pm, 2pm and 4pm
There will be food stalls and activities throughout the day from 12pm—9pm.
Entry is free.

15th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

To do the work of Christ is really quite simple. It means to be faithful in little things, for to be faithful in little things is a big thing. It means to do one’s task, no matter how humble, not only thoroughly but joyfully. It means to make oneself available, yet never seek the limelight. It means to make oneself useful, without seeking to push oneself. It means to carry one’s own burden, without, as far as possible, becoming a burden on others. In a word, it means to be at one’s post, helpful and faithful, loyal and constant. Lord, make me an instrument for the building of your kingdom.

Sea Sunday—14th July 

Sea Sunday is an opportunity for us to remember and say prayers for all the brave men and women who work at sea to make sure we have all that we need. Join us to celebrate Sea Sunday and raise funds which help to provide essential support and services for seafarers who often work in dangerous and lonely conditions.

Second Collection 

There will be a second collection for Priests in retirement next weekend.


Parish Raffle 

This weekend there will be a raffle to raise funds for the Parish.
Exciting prizes available


Funeral 

The Funeral Mass for Margaret Mason will take place here in St James’ on Monday 15th July at 11.45am.
Please remember Margaret and her family in your prayers.

14th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

Disturb us, O Lord,
When we are too well pleased with ourselves;
When our dreams have come true because we dreamed too little;
When we have arrived safely because we sailed too close to the shore.
Stir us, O Lord. To dare more boldly;
To venture more seas, where storms shall show your mastery
Where losing sight of land we shall find the stars.
In the name of him who pushed back the horizons of our hopes and invited the brave to follow him. Amen


Confirmations 

The children in our Deanery will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation from Bishop Tom Neylon on the following dates: Monday 8th July; Wednesday 10th July and Monday 15th July.
All the services are at 7pm in St Monica’s Church. You are welcome to join us for any of them.

Second Collection 

There will be a second collection for Priests in retirement on the weekend of 20th/21st July.


Parish Raffle 

For the next two weekends we will have a raffle for Parish Funds.
Exciting prizes available.

Funeral 

The Funeral service for Mary Disley will take place here in St James’ on Tuesday 9th July at 12 noon.
Please remember Mary and her family in your prayers.

Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles

Reflection

Today the Church celebrates the feast day of Sts. Peter & Paul. St. Augustine of Hippo said of them: “Both apostles share the same feast day, for these two were one; and even though they suffered on different days, they were as one. Peter went first, and Paul followed. And so we celebrate this day made holy for us by the apostles' blood. Let us embrace what they believed, their life, their labors, their sufferings, their preaching, and their confession of faith.”


Congratulations Brother Solomon 

Congratulations to Brother Solomon who will be making his Final Profession here in St James’ today, 30th June, at the 10.30 Mass. Please join us for the Mass and afterwards for tea and cake to celebrate with Solomon!


Second Collection 

There will be a second collection this weekend for Peter’s Pence.


Volunteer your teaching talent 

Are you a retired or part-time qualified teacher? You could be part of the Cathedral’s Education Service team! Come and help hundreds of school children and young people to learn about this wonderful Cathedral. ‘It’s a joy to watch children be amazed by the sheer beauty of John Piper’s lantern of light and colour and be able to bring the Cathedral to life for the generations of the future’. Contact us at education@metcathedral.org.uk

12th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

My faith is tested many times every day and more times than I’d like to confess. I’m unable to keep the banner of faith aloft. If a promise is not kept, or if a secret is betrayed, or if I experience long-lasting pain, I begin to doubt God and God’s love. I fall into the chasm of disbelief and I cry out in despair but then the Spirit lifts me up again and once more I am secured in faith. I don’t know how that happens, save when I cry out earnestly I am answered immediately and am returned to faithfulness. I am once again filled with Spirit and firmly planted on solid ground.
Maya Angelu (Wouldn’t take nothing for my journey now)

Celebrating St Irenaeus Feast at the Irenaeus Project 

This will be on Friday 28 June Starting with a 5pm Mass then a summer garden fayre including tombolas, raffle, crafts, and cake.

Reminder 

The Final Profession of Brother Solomon will take place here in St James’ on Sunday 30th June at the 10.30am Mass. We hope you will join us as we celebrate and pray for Solomon as he dedicates his life to God and to the Salesian Society.

Second Collection 

Next Sunday is the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, and there is a second collection for Peter’s Pence that day.

Funeral 

The Funeral service for Connor Ainsworth will take place here in St James’ on Monday 24th June at 12 noon. Please remember Connor and his family in your prayers.