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A final short update, as we come towards the summer holiday season. Thanks to everyone from across our Deanery churches who have been working hard to help us prepare for change and re-organisation. We realise as time goes by that we are in for a long-distance run rather than a quick sprint, quite rightly so as change needs to happen in a way that makes sense for people. We have just had news of appointment of our new Bishop-Elect, Stephen Wang. I know him well and am confident he will be a great new Shepherd for us all. Just to end with some encouraging words he shares with us on his appointment: “There are many challenges ahead, but I am full of hope. I’ve seen so many times what God can do when people pray and work together, and when they put their trust in him. If we listen to one another, and to the Lord, then he will show us the way forward” We pray for him as he prepares to join us after the summer.
 

So sorry no one was there to take your name and number against any job you think you might lend a hand.  There will definitely be a table in the porch this Sunday with lists of jobs that need extra help please.  Do take a look to see if you would like to help us out.  Thank you.
 

Some of us will be journeying to Lourdes at the end of this month (24-31 July) for the Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage, always a special experience. I will be celebrating a Mass on Friday 17 July at 6.15 pm in OLR (after end of Adoration), followed by tea / coffee in the hall, for any pilgrims who would like to come and meet others who will be going. Also, if anyone would like a small Prayer Petition taken to the Grotto, please leave in the Parish Office at OLR in an envelope marked LOURDES PETITION (no money enclosed) by Monday 20. Thanks – Fr Kevin
 

Seafarers and fishers play a vital role in all of our lives, but they often work in difficult, hazardous conditions.  Today is Sea Sunday.  It is when the Church prays for all those who live and work at sea.  Your support will make a big difference to seafarers and fishers in need.  You can donate in church, by visiting www.stellamaris.org.uk/donate, or by texting ’SEA’ to 70460 to donate £5.  This collection is vital to enable Stella Maris to continue its important work, so please give generously.  Thank you. 
 

There are several handheld fans for sale £2 each, kindly donated by Dennis, on the small round table in the hall.  Money to go to a charity, please pop money in “small pink box”.  Thank you.
 

Such a happy time was had by all who attended this event last Saturday.  What a wonderful buffet table laden with all sorts of goodies.  Our catering team did her proud.
 

Over 50’s Club, last Thursday of every month, 2-4pm. 

A table laden with homemade cakes and sandwiches, cheese/fruit scones, sausage rolls/pork pies and quiche.  Then a quiz sheet and picture bingo for everyone.  Music in the background, lots of talk and laughter.  A free raffle all for £10 each.  Catholics and Non Catholics very welcome, why not come along to our next meeting, you will be most welcome.

As you leave church today (on the table in the porch) please take a look at the list of jobs and see if you could put your name to help out.  Thank you.
 

Last Sunday’s First Communion Breakfast in our hall was a very joyous occasion.  Annette had made and decorated a beautiful cake with the children’s names and plenty of other cakes and sandwiches.  Teresa provided platters of all sorts of healthy goodies.  The hall was decorated with 12 tables for members of our congregation, it was lovely to see so many of our parishioners together with plenty of children who took home all the balloons that decorated the hall!