Newsletter - 04 February 2024
PARISH NEWS
Mary, Undoer of Knots
This Christmas someone gave our house a lovely reproduction of the painting called Mary, Undoer of Knots. It depicts a very human Mary untangling a mess of ribbon. I love the simplicity of the image. Painted in 1700 for a church in Bavaria, the painting has been popularised by Pope Francis who developed a great devotion to this title for Mary while Archbishop of Buenos Aires. “Nothing is Impossible for God’s mercy! Even the most tangled knots are loosened by his grace,” he said.
I find this comforting when I face situations which seem hopeless and impossible. It also helps to deal with the stream of small worries that can tangle up my mind.
This same thought came to me recently when I was listening to a podcast by the Canadian musician Steve Bell (whom I have quoted before in this space). His father was dying of cancer and Steve was doing all kinds of research and suggesting different treatment options. One day from his hospital bed this wise father said to Steve, “Now go away and come to terms with your powerlessness.”
Yes, these are strong words for control freaks and perfectionists like me. People who like to fix things and improve people. I hear the call to come to terms with my powerlessness. I hear the call to entrust everything and everyone to Mary who will bring my worries to her Son, quietly untying the knots. It doesn’t mean that I just sit back and do nothing. But it does tell me to pray and pray again.
And let go of my need to make anything happen. This is a great freedom and a grace. “Even the most tangled knots are loosened by his grace.”
Nancy Wood
Focus of the Week
LIFE IN THE SPIRIT SEMINAR
As believers we are called to membership in a faith community, and to a life of service using the gifts, fruits and charisms offered through the Holy Spirit.
Partnership between the parishes of Christ the King Cockfosters and Mary Immaculate and Saint Gregory the Great, High Barnet.
7 sessions including speakers, scripture, music and small groups
Opportunity to receive the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, whenever we want from week 5.
TUESDAYS 8 – 9pm
God saves us (Mary Immaculate and Saint Gregory the Great, High Barnet)
6 February
New life (Cockfosters)
13 February
Receiving God’s gift (High Barnet)
20 February
Baptism in the Holy spirit (Cockfosters)
27 February
Growth (High Barnet)
5 March
Transformation (Cockfosters)
12 March