Dear Friends,
In today’s Gospel we are asked a fundamental question: Where are our security and stability? Not in any one place. Peter wanted piety and surety, believing that the spiritual was about buildings or mountains and special prayers. Instead, the guiding voice directs Peter to put his trust in Jesus and listen to his voice. Peter and the disciples have to give up their notions of God being in a privileged place and trust Jesus in suffering and sacrifice. They would have to follow Jesus to Jerusalem and, guided by the voice they heard on the mountain, listen to him. Where would Jesus lead his disciples? He would lead them to another location, down from the mountain and on the road with him, for he was “resolutely determined to travel to Jerusalem.”
Father James
CAFOD Lenten Family Fast Day Envelopes will be collected in the retiring Collection today as you leave Mass; and remember, the good news is that the UK government has promised to match every pound you give this Lent, so please be generous. Don’t forget to gift aid your donation if you are a taxpayer.
Lenten Reflections
On Monday 22nd February, Father James will lead a Day of Lenten Reflections in the parish hall beginning at 11am: this will be for the whole parish. There will be Mass at 12.00noon followed by a shared lunch. The second part of his Reflections will start at 1.30pm. This is incorporated into the Senior Citizens’ meeting.
During Lent there will Stations of the Cross at Hoveton on Wednesday following the 9.30am Mass; also at Aylsham on Friday following the 9.30am Mass and at North Walsham on Friday at 12noon.
In this Jubilee Year of Mercy Bishop Alan will be celebrating Lenten Station Masses at various churches in the diocese (please see poster). On Tuesday 8th March the Station Mass will be at St John the Baptist, Cathedral, Norwich at 7pm. Exposition & Confessions are at 6pm; there will be refreshments in the Narthex at 8pm.
St Helen’s 4th Wednesday Club for senior citizens next meets on 24th February. Coffee is served from 11.30am, there is a simple hot lunch at 12.30pm followed by social activities, games and a free raffle, finishing with tea and cake at 4.00pm. The total cost is still only £2. New members are always welcome. If coming for the first time, please leave a message on 01692 582418 (for catering purposes).
Womens’ world Day of Prayer 2016 is on Friday 4th March. At Aylsham in the Methodist Church, White Hart Street at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. At North Walsham in the Methodist Church, Grammar School Road at 2.00pm – prepared by the Christian women of Cuba. All are welcome at these meetings, both men and women. Light refreshments will be served after the Service.
To hear more about Bob & Katie’s visit to Cambodia ‘Support Cambodia’ is holding a “Soups, Slides and Crafts” lunch at the parish hall on Saturday 5th March at 12 noon. Tickets [£3] will be on sale after the Masses today onwards. For details: 01263 577784
Support Cambodia Plant Sale will be held this year on Saturday 14th May. With your help, this can be a great opportunity to raise funds for Support Cambodia projects. With the growing season upon us, you can grow your favourite plants from seed or make cuttings.
The Sponsored Slim is on-going throughout Lent until an agreed date is reached just after Easter. Anyone interested to please contact Gerry Francis on 01603 737066 – proceeds towards financing Kerry and Lauren and Sarah from Aylsham to World Youth Trip to Poland.
Churches Together ‘Lent Lunch’, is on Thursday 18th Feb at 12.30pm in the St Nicholas Room. Cost £4.00. Raising money for Christian Aid. There will be a short address by Rev’d David Philo.
We pray for all those whose anniversaries occur during this week including: Daphne de Soissons, Gerald Hearne, Roy Copperwheat, Robert (Bob) Cockrill, Michael McCann, Edith (Rusty) Collins, Eileen Clarke and Monica Hardingham.
May they rest in peace.
