Today we hear in the Gospel reading the parable of the Good Samaritan.
It is a familiar story in which Jesus commends the Samaritan, the ’outsider’, for his compassionate response to the man who was robbed, beaten and left to die. He contrasts this with the two priestly figures who did not wish to touch the man who, if he was dead, would make them ritually unclean and so unable to perform their religious duties.
But there is more to the story than this. We tend to define ourselves as the centre of our personal world. But the Gospel turns this the other way round – finding oneself by starting from the ‘other’. When Jesus came on earth he identified with injured humanity. Like a good Samaritan he took pity on it and he tells us to do likewise.
Fr James
Today is Sea Sunday; there will be a Stella Maris Second Collection. Today the Church remembers those who live and work at sea, often experiencing extremely difficult & dangerous conditions, suffering from loneliness & spiritual deprivation. Gift Aid envelopes are available.
Next Sunday, 20th July, there will be a Second Collection for Vincencio, who is representing our parish at World Youth in Rome.
Parish Trip to Rome; 8th June 2026. Please sign the list of names at the back of your church if you wish to join the group. The final cost will depend on the number of people going on the trip. Any queries, please contact Peter Brander on p.brander@hotmail.co.uk
Readers at North Walsham Please pick up a revised rota from the porch of the church. This is important because the new rota starts from this coming Sunday (20th July).
Our Annual Parish Meeting (AGM) takes place on Thursday 17th July at 7pm in the parish hall. Reminder: in charge of ‘main’ meal – Aylsham; desserts – N Walsham and teas/coffees & clearing up – Hoveton.
“Hamish MacQueen Live in Concert!” – 19th July 2025 at the Narthex, St John the Baptist Cathedral. Hamish, director of Youth Service, is doing a special gig, sharing about his life and faith through songs he has written over the past 30 years. All ages welcome. Profits go to helping young people go on pilgrimage and training young leaders. Go to www.hamishmacqueen.live for info.
Afternoon Cream Tea with Prosecco is being served at Judi’s house in Oulton, near Blickling on Sunday 3rd August from 3-5pm. Tickets cost £10. To book or for further details, please contact Fran Ludden on 07849 602227 or fran.ludden@btinternet.com
The Shrine at Walsingham is looking for a dedicated and organised Sacristan to join their team. This vital role supports the daily liturgical life of the Shrine, ensuring sacred spaces are well-prepared & welcoming for all pilgrims & visitors. For information go to https://www.walsingham.org.uk/2025/06/23/job-advert-sacristan/
Also: Walsingham Hiring Pilgrimage & Shrine Site Lead – the Shrine is currently seeking someone to lead pilgrimage planning for the Catholic National Shrine & Basilica of Our Lady, prioritising support for the Sacred Liturgy. The job holder will also be responsible for overseeing the operations of the Shrine Gift Shop, Tea Room & domestic team and their duties. For more information: go to https://www.walsingham.org.uk/2025/07/03/job-advert-pilgrimage-and-shrine-site-team-lead/
We pray for our sick parishioners: Matt Butler, Frances Palman, Mary Bell, Celia Cooper, Marie Barton, Margaret Larkins, Maria Halsey, Joan Macnamara, Richard Skelton, Teresa Fitzmaurice, Joan Gale, Bernadette Saunders, Doreen Rockey & daughter
Sandra, Pam Thornton, Mary Long, Malcolm Akers, Frances Mack,
Tony & Amy Heywood and Peter.
We pray for those whose anniversaries occur this week: Angela Brooke, Edward Uden, Mario Periera, Rhoda Egan, John Scoley and Irene Harrison. May they rest in peace.
