Newsletter - 28 July
WELCOME TEAM
As we celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the Chemin Neuf in the parish, and build on the foundations of the Benedictines, the words from Nancy struck me deeply as she reminded us that the spirituality of both communities has Christ at the centre and is supported by prayer, work, commitment, discernment and fraternity.
Each of these parts are evident in the ministry of the Welcome Team, who greet the members of the parish at each of the Sunday Masses. With a smile and a “Hello”, the team ensure each visitor to the church feels part of the family of God. Whether you are a parishioner for many years or it is the first time of visiting it does not matter, this simple service is the fulfilment of Jesus teaching:
“Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.” Mark 9:37.
The Welcome Team ministry includes helping others before, during and after Mass; finding parishioners a seat, getting a newsletter, taking the collection and helping the congregation on the way to Communion or a quick tidy up after Mass are the simple tasks which allow us to serve the Community. Serving once a month is usually what happens. This service is our prayer in action.
The ministry is not all about giving, the rewards are immense too. Being part of a team, receiving lovely smiles in return, sharing the joys of the day are just a few of the things that can be received as a member of the Welcome Team. Through the “Coffee / Tea meetings,” members each can benefit from the fraternity of the Team, and the biscuits are usually good too!
Cardinal Vincent reminded us that we have St Peter and St Paul as role models of how we are all different, but it is by binding together that we become the community of Christ and we can do God’s work. So, with this thought fresh in your minds, could you join this wonderful ministry?
In September, as the new Church year begins again, why not come and shadow the stewards and see how things work. Talk to our friendly team and they will tell you what a blessing it is.
The Welcome Team will be very happy to “welcome” you.
Karen Wright
Welcome Team Co-ordinator
Focus of the Week
Masses On Sunday During August
Last year many of you expressed enjoyment in having a combined Mass in August on Sundays.
Therefore, this year, we will once again have only one Mass on Sundays at 10:00am, followed by tea and coffee. This will be a great opportunity to mingle and get to know each other better.
There is also no children’s liturgy during the month.
Adoration
There will be no Adoration during the summer.
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Adoration will resume on Monday 9 September.