“Joy is the infallible sign of the presence of God.”
The 3rd Sunday of Advent Year A is also called Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete means “rejoice”. This Sunday reminds us that even while we wait, we can be joyful. Advent is a time of hope and preparation. But this week, we pause to smile, sing, and take heart.
This Sunday points us toward joy. Not because everything is perfect, but because Jesus is near. His coming brings healing, justice and peace.
Fr. Peter
This Weekend there is a Second Collection for the Dependent Priests’ Fund.
The Forum held at the Sacred Heart last Sunday. Copies of Minutes taken during the meeting are available at the back of the church. It was a very productive and interesting meeting, lasting no more than three quarters of an hour and so we would therefore urge you, if you decided not to stay, to reconsider your decision next time and enjoy taking part or being present just listening when the second Forum is held.
Volunteers sought to Support Admission Appeals The Diocese of East Anglia Schools’ Service is seeking volunteers to serve as ‘school admission appeals panel ‘ members, helping ensure parents’ rights are upheld when a child is not offered a place at their preferred Catholic school. Panel members play a vital role considering cases where parents wish to challenge a refusal of admission. These appeals may be heard in person or via video; volunteers may express a preference for type of hearing. Panel members will receive training. Anyone interested in volunteering/finding out more should contact Helen Bates, Asst. Dir. (Schools’ Service) at Diocese of East Anglia, 21 Upgate, Poringland, Norwich NR14 7SH. By email at ssc@rcdea.org.uk or by telephone on 01508 495509.
Sunday Missals. A limited number of new Missals are available for Sunday Mass but please will you make sure you return them to the back of the church after Mass.
Message from the SVP. Thank you all so much for your most generous gifts given in response to the SVP Second Collection Appeal on 22ne/23rd November. We collected £942.69!! If you have decided to be a benefactor or to volunteer to join our conference group you can contact Steve on 07808901028 or Maria on 07746007508.
The Norwich Foodbank thank everyone at St Helen’s for their wonderful donations in the Reverse Advent Calendar Appeal. They were truly overwhelmed by the response.
Church Floral arrangements at Christmas. Our flower arrangers would be most appreciative of any financial support in the coming weeks in order to put on their very best display to celebrate our Lord’s birthday.
TODAY (Sunday) a SERVICE OF ADVENT CAROLS will be held at St Helen’s Hoveton at 3pm.
LATE-ADVENT SERVICE OF TRADITIONAL LESSONS & CAROLS. 7pm. Thursday 18th December at St John of the Cross Aylsham.
A TRADITIONAL CAROL SERVICE OF CAROLS & READINGS to be held at the Sacred Heart Church, Sunday 21st Dec., 3pm.
We pray for our sick parishioners: Matt Butler, Frances Palman, Mary Bell, Celia Cooper, 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 & Peter, Cathie Dickson, Carolyn Rayner, her mother Mary Rayner & Antonia.
We pray for those whose anniversaries occur this week: Mildred Parker, Ivan Fisher, Peter Higgs, Mary (Lily) Smith, Teresa (Tess) Semple, Irene Brown, Brian Barby and Molly Harland. May they rest in peace.
