Dear All,
Walsingham Pilgrimage: It was a cool morning when I looked out of the window whilst having my breakfast– this did not bode well. At least, I thought, it is not windy like last year and there is no forecast of rain. I hope the pilgrims have dressed warmly as there is a lot of sitting around on these days. We duly departed– a happy band of approximately 48 pilgrims after the Sheringham pickup-and we trundled our way to Walsingham to honour Our Lady and celebrate Mass with Bishop Peter and the rest of the diocese. The day ran like clockwork. After Mass, we had a quick lunch and then, those who could, walked the holy mile to the Abbey grounds for Benediction. At least the walk will warm us up, I thought.
We arrived home, all safe and warmed by the bus journey – weary pilgrims after a long day — my heart lifted though, when I heard some of the group already talking about ‘next year’ and how we can be even better organised. My thanks to Christine, who arranged the coach and timings for us, as well as John who looked after the banner for the day. Thank you to all the pilgrims for your great humour, your joyful participation and the prayers that you offered.
Father Alan
A reminder that we pray The Rosary half an hour before Mass during May. This will be before each Mass at Sacred Heart, on Saturday at Hoveton, and on Friday at Aylsham. Please enter the church and sit quietly at this time, to participate in the powerful prayer that is taking place.
Priestly Vocations: A Day of Discernment in Thetford– Men who are open to exploring a call to the priesthood are invited to a Day of Discernment on Saturday, 16th May at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Thetford. The day begins with Mass at 10.30am and ends at 3.00pm, with lunch provided. The programme includes talks, discussion, guidance on discernment, and Eucharistic Adoration. For more information or to attend, please contact Fr Christopher Smith Email: christopher.smith@rcdea.org.uk. Tel: 01502 723207
The Ascension of the Lord– Please note that on Thursday this week, a Holy day of Obligation, the service times are different from usual, to enable as many as possible to have the opportunity to attend Mass. You will find the times for each church on the back of the newsletter and on the Mass Times page.
Marriage Celebration Mass- All married couples in the diocese are invited to attend the annual Marriage Celebration Mass on Saturday 13th June, at 11.30 in the Cathedral of St John the Baptist, Norwich. Couples celebrating significant anniversaries (1 year, 5 years, and every multiple of 5 thereafter, as well as those over 60) can register to receive a certificate from the Bishop. Refreshments will be served after the Mass. For details and to register online, please see www.rcdea.org.uk/marriage-mass-registration/This is a great day out to the Cathedral to meet with other people celebrating their marriage and to enjoy a joyful social event afterwards.
Office Telephone – We apologise to anyone who has tried to contact the church office by phone in the last week. It is not working properly and is due to be replaced shortly. If you have urgent need of the parish office please try the mobile number given on the newsletter for The Hall, and your query will be redirected as soon as possible.
We pray for our sick parishioners: Matt Butler, Frances Palman, Mary Bell, Celia Cooper, Margaret Larkins, Maria Halsey, Joan Macnamara, Richard Skelton, Teresa Fitzmaurice, Bernadette Saunders, Doreen Rockey & daughter Sandra, Pam Thornton, Mary Long, Malcolm Akers, Frances Mack, Amy Heywood & Peter, Cathie Dickson, Carolyn Rayner & her mother Mary Rayner and Alan Ganney.
We pray for those whose anniversaries occur this week:: Lilian Davis, Olive Carr, Alan Dorsett, Elizabeth Buchanan, Jane Brown, Joan Madden, Joan Harmer, Margaret Douglas, Anne Harvey, Veronica White, Paddy Clinch, Elizabeth Uden.
May they rest in peace.
