Dear Friends,
In today’s first reading and also the Gospel we are reminded of the plight of widows in many cultures and at many times. The Greek word for widow derives from the concept of ‘forsaken’. They were emotionally bereft and physically dependant on relatives. Today’s readings tell us of the helplessness of two widows but also their generosity: the widow in Sidon shares her last meal, the woman in the Temple gives her last penny. Their generosity does not go unheeded or unrewarded.
Sacramental Preparation. We have now reached the stage when we can begin classes for children to prepare them for their First Holy Communion and young people for Confirmation. Enrolment forms are now available in church porches; to be returned a.s.a.p. please.
Today, Sunday, the Journey in Faith group meets in the presbytery at 6pm.
Father James
At the Sacred Heart, North Walsham, all Masses both on Sundays and on weekdays (Tuesdays and Thursdays) are accessible from your computer or tablet. Simply click here, or go to the parish website and click on ‘Live Streaming’.
Missio Collection Boxes It’s that time of year again for calling in the red boxes – the APF or Mission collection boxes. Could you please hand these in to your respective churches. Thank you.
World Youth Day – this November 2021! As well as International World Youth Days, Pope Francis has asked that ‘Youth Sunday’ is now known as ‘World Youth Day’ with each diocese throughout the world running a special event! All young people Year 7 upwards are invited to ‘World Youth Day East Anglia’ held at the Cathedral of St John the Baptist on Saturday 20th November, 12pm-8pm. There will be live music, inspiring talks, powerful prayer times and a vigil Mass with the Bishop to welcome in World Youth Day. Places are limited – to book a place and for more information, please see www.rcdea.org.uk/youth
Message from Kerry. Just a reminder that starting from January 2022 I will be starting up Faithful Flames Children’s Group at the Sacred Heart church and I would really love your support. Please spread the word amongst your families. If you would like to volunteer or get involved in some way or show support by funding new resources or even if you just have a few questions then please give me a call on 07504 048352. Keep your eyes peeled for details on the children’s Christmas party too!
Advent Collections for the North Norfolk and Norwich Food Banks. Having been unable to make our Advent Collections for the Food Banks for the last couple of years owing to the Covid pandemic, both the North Norfolk and the Norwich Food Bank would be very grateful if we could donate some Advent boxes this year. There are lists of the items that the Food Banks particularly need at the back of each of our churches. Please fill your boxes and ensure that they are brought in to either North Walsham or Aylsham for the North Norfolk Food Bank or to Hoveton for the Norwich Food Bank by the beginning of December so that the donated items can be distributed in time for Christmas. For more information see our Foodbank page.
Election of PPC representatives. Thank you for your nominations so far for new representatives; we still need more.
Bible Study at the Sacred Heart. The next fortnightly meeting will take place on Friday 19th November at 2.30pm in the Committee Room.
Churches Together – North Walsham A Remembrance service will be held on Sunday 14th November at 10.30am at St Nicholas Parish church also at 2pm in the North Walsham Memorial Gardens in the park. Wreaths can be brought to either venue. All are welcome.
We pray for our sick parishioners: Matt Butler, Derek and Frances Palman, Mary Bell, Monica Hawley, Mary Carr and John Bradley.
We pray for Michael Doyle who died recently and for those whose anniversaries occurred this week: Olive Fuller, Hester Armstrong, Michael Reynolds, Ellen Joy, Rose Dunham, Evelyn Andrews, and Roger Kerrison. May they rest in peace.
