St Joseph's Parish News

14th April 2024

Sunday 8.30am Mass: Baby and Toddler Group in the parish hall after this Mass today.
All are welcome! for more details, please contact Katie at katie.dyson@gmail.com.

Tea and coffee will be served in the hall after both Masses. All are welcome.
If you would like to join the rota for tea/coffee preparation, please sign up on the sheet in the hall or let Fr Michael know.

Wednesday 17th April: 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection.
All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

Wednesday 17th April: 7.15pm - Bible Study with Fr Peter Codd at Our Lady of Lourdes, Hungerford.
He recommends reading John’s Gospel, chapters 1-4, in preparation. All are welcome.

Thursday 18th April: Coffee Morning in aid of the Newbury Street Pastors. 10.00am-12 noon at St Nicholas’ Church, Northbrook Street, Newbury.
Donations of cakes, bric-a-brac (puzzles are popular) and prizes for a tombola gratefully received.
All are welcome!

Thursday 18th April Grand/Mothers’ Prayer Group 2.30pm – 4.00pm at Newbury Grove Care Home, 370 London Road RG14 2QH to pray for the needs of our children and grandchildren, and for a strengthening of faith.
Refreshments provided. If interested, please contact elizmatias43@gmail.com or just come along.

Saturday 20th April: 10.00am- 12 noon First Holy Communion Preparation Session for candidates in St Joseph’s Hall – this will be followed at 12 noon by a short PARENTS’ MEETING in the hall to finalise details of the actual First Holy Communion celebrations on 9th and 16th June.

PARISH AFTERNOON TEA PARTY – Sunday 5th May at 1pm. A delicious tea with sandwiches, scones, and cakes! Tickets £12 per person – proceeds to St Joseph’s Parish.
Book places with Marion Shaw email: shawmpj@gmail.com

Bible Society Romans Course: The third session of this 10 week course looking at St Paul’s letter to the Romans will take place on Wednesday 17th April at 7.30pm at Newbury Methodist Church. Everyone is very welcome. There will be video, discussion groups and time to think about what you’ve heard. Each session is standalone, so you don’t need to go to every one. If you are interested in attending, please contact Rosie Greenhalgh (rosie.greenhalgh@ntlworld.com).

FORMATION DAY: A Day for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion – Saturday 4th May, 9.30am – 2.30pm at St Bede’s Church, Popley Way, Basingstoke RG24 9DX. The day starts with Mass at 9.30am and includes talks, reflections and refreshments. If you would like to attend, please RSVP to liturgy@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk.

RELIGIOUS ART: The National Gallery has acquired ‘Eucharist’, one of the greatest paintings of the Last Supper, by Nicolas Poussin (1594-1664). It can be viewed in Room 31: www.nationalgallery.org.uk

Saturday 27th April: Quiz Night! 6.45pm for 7.15pm start, at St Francis de Sales’ Hall, Wash Common. Fun for all the family. Tickets include two course supper - £10 adult, £5 child (5-13), £25 family, Raffle, Bar. Contact: stfrancisjpgroup@gmail.com or tel. Trisha Craig on 01635 32534.

Volunteers required: Now that spring is with us, and our gardens are growing apace, it would be hugely appreciated if any parishioners could spare an occasional hour to maintain our church flower beds & shrubbery. Please speak with Fr Michael if you can help!

7th April 2024

Sunday 7th April: Second Sunday of Easter, DIVINE MERCY Sunday. 3pm: Divine Mercy Service at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford, with opportunity for confession.
All are welcome.

Monday 8th April: 10.00am Mass, the ANNUNCIATION OF THE LORD. The feast is transferred from 25th March.

Wednesday 10th April: 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection.
All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.
No Bible Study this week. Study sessions with Fr Peter Codd will resume on Wednesday 17th April. He recommends reading John’s Gospel, chapters 1-4, in preparation.

Thursday 11th April: 2.30pm Film Matinée in the Parish Hall – A musical comedy TBC!
Grand/Mothers’ Prayer Group 2.30pm – 4.00pm at Newbury Grove Care Home, 370 London Road RG14 2QH to pray for the needs of our children and grandchildren, and for a strengthening of faith.
Refreshments provided. If interested, please contact elizmatias43@gmail.com or just come along.

Thursday 18th April: Coffee Morning in aid of the Newbury Street Pastors. 10.00am-12 noon at St Nicholas’ Church, Northbrook Street, Newbury.
Donations of cakes, bric-a-brac (puzzles are popular) and prizes for a tombola gratefully received.
All are welcome!

Thursday 18th April: Coffee Morning in aid of the Newbury Street Pastors. 10.00am-12 noon at St Nicholas’ Church, Northbrook Street, Newbury. Donations of cakes, bric-a-brac (puzzles are popular) and prizes for a tombola gratefully received. All are welcome!

Volunteers required: Now that spring is with us, and our gardens are growing apace, it would be hugely appreciated if any parishioners could spare an occasional hour to maintain our church flower beds & shrubbery. Please speak with Fr Michael if you can help!

Bible Society Romans Course: The Bible Society have launched a 10-week course on Paul’s letter to the Romans. Newbury Methodist Church will be following this course on Wednesday evenings at 7.30pm in their church, continuing on Wednesday 10th April and finishing on 5th June. Everyone is very welcome to join them. There will be video, discussion groups and time to think about what you’ve heard. Each session is standalone, so you don’t need to go to every one. If you are interested in attending, please contact Rosie Greenhalgh (rosie.greenhalgh@ntlworld.com).

FORMATION DAY: A Day for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion – Saturday 4th May, 9.30am – 2.30pm at St Bede’s Church, Popley Way, Basingstoke RG24 9DX. The day starts with Mass at 9.30am and includes talks, reflections and refreshments. If you would like to attend, please RSVP to liturgy@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

PARISH AFTERNOON TEA PARTY – Sunday 5th May at 1pm. A delicious tea with sandwiches, scones, and cakes! Tickets £12 per person – proceeds to St Joseph’s Parish. Book places with Marion Shaw email: shawmpj@gmail.com

PAPAL COMMUNICATION At this time the Holy Father asks us to pray that those who risk their lives for the Gospel in various parts of the world might imbue the Church with their courage and missionary drive. The Pope’s address on the subject can be viewed at:https://youtu.be/RJbGE0AtjL0

30th March 2024

8.30am Mass: No Tea and Coffee, and no Baby and Toddler Group in the parish hall after this Mass today. They will resume next Sunday

Wednesday 3rd April: 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection.
All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

No Bible Study this week or next. Study sessions with Fr Peter Codd will resume on Wednesday 17th April. He recommends reading John’s Gospel, chapters 1-4, in preparation.

Thursday 4th April: No Grand/Mothers’ Prayer Group at Newbury Grove Care Home this week. It will resume again next week.

Friday 5th April: Holy Rosary recited after 10.00am Mass today.

Sunday 7th April: Second Sunday of Easter, DIVINE MERCY Sunday. 3pm: Divine Mercy Service at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford, with opportunity for confession.
All are welcome.

PARISH AFTERNOON TEA PARTY – Sunday 5th May at 1pm. A delicious tea with sandwiches, scones, and cakes! Tickets £12 per person – proceeds to St Joseph’s Parish.
Book places with Marion Shaw email: shawmpj@gmail.com

EXPLORING REASONS The Diocese of Brentwood has published a document entitled: 'Believing, not Belonging', the result of a research project into why so many Catholics no longer come to Church. It may be read via the link: https://www.mbit.cam.ac.uk/wpcontent/uploads/2024/03/CEE-Believing-Not-BelongingFinal-Report_2023.pdf

SPONSORSHIP PLEASE: Teresa Dykes (aged 82) is doing a ‘wing walk’ on top of a bi-plane to raise funds for young people to go to the Youth Festival in Medjugorje in August to enjoy its fun and blessings. To sponsor her, go to: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/catholic-youth

Further detail on the event from Sue Smith - susan.smith313@ntlworld.com

Bible Society Romans Course: The Bible Society have launched a 10-week course on Paul’s letter to the Romans. Newbury Methodist Church will be following this course on Wednesday evenings at 7.30pm in their church, starting on Wednesday 3rd April and finishing on 5th June. Everyone is very welcome to join them. There will be video, discussion groups and time to think about what you’ve heard. Each session stands alone, so you don’t need to go to every one. If you are interested in attending, please contact Rosie Greenhalgh (rosie.greenhalgh@ntlworld.com).

Vocation Seeker Evenings: Fridays 5th April and 3rd May 7-9pm. Wondering what God is calling you to? Why not join our monthly discernment group to explore further. Our Diocesan Discernment Group meets monthly at the Sacred Heart Church in Fareham (PO16 0NF) for food, prayer, reflection and friendship. For info/invite contact: Cn John Cooke (vocations@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk 01329 318 869)

22nd March 2024

Tuesday 26th March: 11.00am: The Chrism Mass at St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth. The Chrism Mass is one of the principal expressions of the fullness of the bishop’s priesthood and signifies the closeness of the priests with him. At this Mass, the Oil of the Catechumens and the Oil of the Sick are blessed, the Sacred Chrism is consecrated for use during the coming year.

Wednesday 27th March: 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection. All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.
7.15pm - Bible Study with Fr Peter Codd at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford. All are welcome.

28th -30th March: THE EASTER TRIDUUM - The three big liturgies on these days are effectively one single Act of Worship over Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Vigil on Holy Saturday where Catechumens and Candidates are received into Full Communion with the Catholic Church. We are encouraged if possible to attend the whole Act of Worship – the Maundy Thursday Mass at 7.30pm, Liturgy of Good Friday at 3.00pm, and the Holy Saturday Vigil starting at 8.00pm.

Thursday 28th March: MAUNDY THURSDAY – No 10.00am Mass. 10.00am-11.00am: ‘The Wonder of the Shroud’, a showing in the parish hall of the video lecture by Fr Martin Haigh OSB on the Shroud of Turin exploring the compelling evidence for its authenticity, and what it reveals about Our Lord’s death and crucifixion – a profound spiritual insight for Holy Week.

Grand/Mothers’ Prayer Group: 2.30pm-4.00pm at Newbury Grove Care Home, 370 London Rd RG14 2QH to pray for the needs of our children and grandchildren, and for a strengthening of faith. Refreshments provided. If interested, please contact elizmatias43@gmail.com or just come along.

7.30pm: Mass of the Lord’s Supper (followed by Watching at the Altar of Repose until 10.00pm).

Friday 29th March: GOOD FRIDAY. 10.00am Stations of the Cross in church. 3.00pm: The Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion. The annual collection today is for the Holy Places supports the Christian community in the Middle East seeking 'to be the salt, light and leaven of the Gospel' in the region. Donations can also be sent via link to Give As You Live: https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/goodfriday-collection-for-christians-in-the-holy-land

Saturday 30th March: HOLY SATURDAY. No 10.00am Mass – rather, Confessions 10.00am-11.00am.
11.30am Polish Service of the Blessing of Bread. All welcome. 8pm THE EASTER VIGIL.

This is the most important liturgy of the Church Year, and the first Mass of Easter.

30th/31st March N.B. Please remember that the clocks go forward one hour tonight!

Sunday 31st March: EASTER SUNDAY – Masses at 8.30am and 11.00am.

From the Diocese - Easter Offerings: as is customary at Easter, offerings can be made directly to your parish clergy through the plate collection on Easter Sunday Masses, or via the following link specifically for St Joseph’s, Newbury -

https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/newbury-st-joseph-catholic-parish-easter-collection-2024

17th March 2024

There is a Pastoral Letter today from Bishop Philip
It can be accessed here, and a video can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlzZs0AML7c

If you would like to receive a copy of this newsletter by email each week, please contact the parish office - office@stjosephsnewbury.org.uk

Tuesday 19th March: ST JOSEPH, Parish Patronal Feast. Mass at 10.00am.

Wednesday 20th March: 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection.
All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

N.B. There will be no Bible Study this week as Fr Peter will be attending the Penitential Service

Wednesday 20th March: LENT PENITENTIAL SERVICE, 7.30pm at St Joseph’s Church for the parishes of the West Berkshire Pastoral Area, offering the opportunity to make your Easter Confession.
Priests will be present from all local parishes to hear Confessions.

Thursday 21st March: Grand/Mothers’ Prayer Group: 2.30pm-4.00pm at Newbury Grove Care Home, 370 London Rd RG14 2QH to pray for the needs of our children and grandchildren, and for a strengthening of faith. Refreshments provided. If interested please contact, elizmatias43@gmail.com or just come along!

Friday 22nd March: Stations of the Cross after 10.00am Mass

Friday 22nd March - 2.30pm: Film Matinée – ‘Risen’ (2016), epic biblical story of the Resurrection, as told through the eyes of a nonbeliever who begins to explore his possible belief.

A Polish Service of Blessing of Bread will be held at St Joseph’s Church on Holy Saturday 30th March at 11.30am

8.30am Mass: We will now be holding a BABY AND TODDLER GROUP in the hall straight after 8.30am Mass on a Sunday, alongside the tea and coffee gathering. This is a great opportunity for young families to connect and for little ones to get to know each other. All are welcome! If you are interested please do come along (perhaps with a couple of toys you don't mind the little ones sharing). For more details, please contact Katie at katie.dyson@gmail.com.

Sunday 24th March: PALM SUNDAY - 11.00am Mass: Children’s Liturgy will take place in the hall for all those of primary school age. Also, the Music Group will assist in the celebration of Mass

Tuesday 26th March: The Chrism Mass, 11a.m. at Portsmouth Cathedral. This is a restoration of the rite recorded in the 3 rd century. In the 5 th century the ceremony of the oils moved from the Easter Vigil to Holy Thursday. A specific Mass was instituted, as distinct from the Mass of the Lord's Supper. The change deconflicted it from the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday, and emphasised Christ's institution of the ordained priesthood during The Last Supper. In the decree renewing this rite Pope Saint Paul VI said: “The Chrism Mass is one of the principal expressions of the fullness of the bishop’s priesthood and signifies the closeness of the priests with him.” While the Oil of the Catechumens and the Oil of the Sick, are "blessed," the Sacred Chrism is "consecrated".

Ways to give to St Joseph’s: Phil Hobb’s talk last Sunday outlined four ways you can donate to the parish, plus an easy way to boost your donation: (i) Standing Orders; (ii) Contactless giving on one of the two Digital Collection Pads in church; (iii) Planned Giving envelopes (boxes for the new tax year for those already donating via this method are available to collect from the sacristy); and (iv) donations by cash in the collection plate. To start donating by either Standing Order or Planned Giving envelopes, please ask Fr Michael or Phil Hobbs for the relevant form to complete. If you are a UK taxpayer, the Gift Aid scheme allows us to claim back the tax you have already paid on your donation. To do this, we need your permission, your name and address – that’s all – please ask Fr Michael or Phil Hobbs for a Gift Aid declaration form. Your generosity is very much appreciated.

10th March 2024

If you would like to receive a copy of this newsletter by email each week, please contact the parish office - office@stjosephsnewbury.org.uk

Planned Giving Envelopes for the new tax year will be available to collect from Phil Hobbs after both Masses today

8.30am Mass: We will now be holding a BABY AND TODDLER GROUP in the hall straight after 8.30am Mass on a Sunday, alongside the tea and coffee gathering. This is a great opportunity for young families to connect and for little ones to get to know each other. All are welcome! If you are interested please do come along (perhaps with a couple of toys you don't mind the little ones sharing). For more details, please contact Katie at katie.dyson@gmail.com.

NEW SOCIAL INITIATIVE!! Following a suggestion by volunteers, tea and coffee will now also be served in the hall after the 08.30am Mass! Thanks to all those are prepared to help facilitate this.
All are encouraged to take this opportunity to forge new contacts and friendships with fellow worshippers, and all are very welcome.

Wednesday 13th March: 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection.
All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

Wednesday 13th March:7.15pm – Bible Study with Fr Peter Codd at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford. All are welcome.

Wednesday 13th March: 10.00am - 12 noon - Understanding Dementia: A workshop (coffee from 9.30am) learning about dementia, diagnosis, and the support available to those living with dementia and their carers at Newbury Methodist Church (Wesley Hall), Northbrook Street, Newbury RG14 1AN. Led by Sue Butterworth, Senior Public Health Programme Officer. To book, contact Karen on 07444 851606 or email pastoraldevelopmentworker@outlook.com

Thursday 14th March: Grand/Mothers’ Prayer Group: 2.30pm-4.00pm at Newbury Grove Care Home, 370 London Rd RG14 2QH to pray for the needs of our children and grandchildren,
and for a strengthening of faith. Refreshments provided. If interested please contact, elizmatias43@gmail.com or just come along!

Friday 15th March: St Patrick’s Celebration in St Joseph’s Hall. Join us at this parish event for an evening of food, music and good company.
Tickets £15 per person (to include a 2 course meal) – proceeds will go to St Joseph’s Church.
Tickets for this popular parish event have now sold out!

Wednesday 20th March: LENT PENITENTIAL SERVICE, 7.30pm at St Joseph’s Church for the parishes of the West Berkshire Pastoral Area, offering the opportunity to make your Easter Confession.
Priests will be present from all local parishes to hear Confessions.

A Polish Service of Blessing of Bread will be held at St Joseph’s Church on Holy Saturday 30th March at 11.30am

2nd March 2024

Wednesday 6th March: 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection. All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

Wednesday 6th March: 7.15pm – Bible Study with Fr Peter Codd at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford. All are welcome.

Thursday 7th March: Grand/Mothers’ Prayer Group: 2.30pm-4.00pm at Newbury Grove Care Home, 370 London Rd RG14 2QH to pray for the needs of our children and grandchildren, and for a strengthening of faith. Refreshments provided. If interested please contact, elizmatias43@gmail.com or just come along!

Thursday 7th March 2.30pm: Film Matinée in St Joseph’s Hall. ‘The Agony and the Ecstasy’ relates the story of Pope Julius II tasking Michaelangelo to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling.
All are welcome.

Friday 8th March: Stations of the Cross after 10.00am Mass today.

Saturday 9th March: Pastoral Area Lent Retreat. This will be at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford, on Saturday 9th March starting at 10.00 am and concluding with Mass at 4.00pm. It will again be led by Fr. Thomas Kleinschmidt OMV.
ALL welcome and please bring a packed lunch.

Also, today Divine Mercy Lenten Retreat, 11 am to 4 pm, at the Cathedral Church of the Bishop of the Forces, Queen’s Avenue, Aldershot, Hampshire, GU11 2BY led by the Marian Fathers. Includes teachings on the Message of Mercy, Stations of the Cross, Holy Mass, Hour of Mercy with Adoration and Benediction and Veneration of the Image of Merciful Jesus.
All welcome. Please call Millie on 07957594646 for more information.

Sunday 10th March: (Mothering Sunday) There will be a second collection at Masses today for the Clergy Assistance Fund which resources the work of the Department for Clergy Team, responsible for the welfare, ongoing formation and personal support of our clergy, from ordination into retirement: 70 in active ministry, 47 from religious orders, the Ordinariate, or overseas, and 42 retired.

Friday 15th March: St Patrick’s Celebration in St Joseph’s Hall. Join us at this parish event for an evening of food, music and good company.
Tickets £15 per person (to include a 2 course meal) – proceeds will go to St Joseph’s Church. To book, please call Marion on 0773 298 1847 or email shawmpj@gmail.com.

Saturday 16th March: The Diocesan Dialogue with Cultural Sector Team is hosting a Symposium on medical and social ethics entitled ‘What does it mean to be Human? Medical Ethics and Social Care Today’ at The Arc, Winchester from 10.30am-4.15pm. Tickets are priced at £20 for the day, including sandwiches and refreshments and can be purchased via https://whatdoes-it-mean-to-be-human-symposium.eventbrite.co.uk

A Transformative Experience this Lent? The Carmelite Friars of Chilswell Priory, Oxford, invite you to join their “Journey Towards Easter with the Psalms” – a free online Lenten retreat. You will have the opportunity to reflect and pray with psalms as well as texts from the Gospels, and enter into the mysteries of the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus, and understand the promise they hold for us today. Dates: 12th, 19th & 26th March 2024, Time: 7.00pm – 7.40pm (Zoom opens @ 6.45pm) Venue: Online. Led by the Carmelite Retreat Team. Cost: Free. Register at - www.carmelite.uk.net/product/journeytowards-easter-with-the-psalms/

JOURNEYING TOGETHER – ‘Pilgrim Cross’ is an inclusive Easter pilgrimage for all Christians. Whether joining virtually or walking for one, three or seven days the pilgrimage has options to suit all physical abilities, ages, and levels of faith. Details at: www.pilgrimcross.org.uk

25th February 2024

Wednesday 28th February: 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection.
All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

Wednesday 28th February 7.15pm – Bible Study with Fr Peter Codd at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford. All are welcome.

Thursday 29th February: Grand/Mothers’ Prayer Group: 2.30pm-4.00pm at Newbury Grove Care Home, 370 London Rd, RG14 2QH to pray for the needs of our children and grandchildren, and for a strengthening of faith. Refreshments provided.
The Movement exists in over 100 countries. If interested please contact, elizmatias43@gmail.com or just come along!

Thursday 29th February - 7.30pm - Evangelisation Strategy Committee Meeting at Douai Abbey.

Friday 1st March: Holy Rosary recited after 10.00am Mass today.

Saturday 2nd March: Piano Recital by Christopher Burrows at St Joseph’s Church at 6pm.
Programme to include works by Chopin, Beethoven, Bach, Brahms and Mozart. Tickets £15 (payable at door), under 16s free, to include wine/canapés during the interval.

Sunday 3rd March: 11.00am Mass: Children’s Liturgy will take place in the hall for all those of primary school age.

Saturday 9th March: Pastoral Area Lent Retreat. This will be at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford, on Saturday 9th March starting at 10.00 am and concluding with Mass at 4.00pm. It will again be led by Fr. Thomas Kleinschmidt OMV. ALL welcome and please bring a packed lunch. Also, today Divine Mercy Lenten Retreat, 11 am to 4 pm, at the Cathedral Church of the Bishop of the Forces, Queen’s Avenue, Aldershot, Hampshire, GU11 2BY led by the Marian Fathers. Includesteachings on the Message of Mercy, Stations of the Cross, Holy Mass, Hour of Mercy with Adoration and Benediction and Veneration of the Image of Merciful Jesus. All welcome. Please call Millie on 07957594646 for more information.

Friday 15th March: St Patrick’s Celebration in St Joseph’s Hall. Join us at this parish event for an evening of food, music and good company. Tickets £15 per person (to include a 2 course meal) – proceeds will go to St Joseph’s Church. To book, please call Marion on 0773 298 1847 or email shawmpj@gmail.com

A Transformative Experience this Lent? The Carmelite Friars of Chilswell Priory, Oxford, invite you to join their “Journey Towards Easter with the Psalms” – a free online Lenten retreat. You will have the opportunity to reflect and pray with psalms as well as texts from the Gospels, and enter into the mysteries of the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus, and understand the promise they hold for us today. Dates: 12th, 19th & 26th March 2024, Time: 7.00pm – 7.40pm (Zoom opens @ 6.45pm) Venue: Online. Led by the Carmelite Retreat Team. Cost: Free. Register at - www.carmelite.uk.net/product/journeytowards-easter-with-the-psalms/

Vocation Seeker Evenings: Fridays 1 st March, 5th April, 3 rd May 7-9pm. Wondering what God is calling you to? Why not join our monthly discernment group to explore further. Our Diocesan Discernment Group meets monthly at the Sacred Heart Church in Fareham (PO16 0NF) for food, prayer, reflection and friendship. For info/invite contact: Cn John Cooke (vocations@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk 01329 318 869)

16th February 2024

TEACHING POINT: The weekdays of Lent from Ash Wednesday to the Saturday before Palm Sunday take precedence over the memorials of the Saints, which therefore are only celebrated in the particular form laid down by the liturgical books. Saints weekday memorials may be celebrated by substituting the collect of the saint in the Mass of the Day. Only when some pastoral advantage or need requires it may an appropriate Mass for various needs and occasions be celebrated. Votive Masses and daily Masses of the Dead are prohibited. Throughout the Lent Season the Alleluia is always omitted. The Gloria is said or sung on solemnities, feasts and special occasions only, being omitted from Sunday Masses. The altar is not adorned with flowers, and the organ is only played for the purpose of sustaining singing. An exception is made for ‘Laetare Sunday’ and for solemnities and feasts.

A Transformative Experience this Lent? The Carmelite Friars of Chilswell Priory, Oxford, invite you to join their “Journey Towards Easter With the Psalms” – a free online Lenten retreat. You will have the opportunity to reflect and pray with psalms as well as texts from the Gospels, and enter into the mysteries of the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus, and understand the promise they hold for us today. Dates: 12th, 19th & 26th March 2024, Time: 7.00pm – 7.40pm, (Zoom opens @ 6.45pm), Venue: Online, led by: Carmelite Retreat Team, Cost: Free. Register at - https://www.carmelite.uk.net/

Tuesday 20th February: 7.30pm Parish Finance Committee Meeting in St Joseph’s Hall.

Wednesday 21st February: 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection. All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

Wednesday 21st February - 7.15pm – Bible Study with Fr Peter Codd resumes at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford. All are welcome.

Thursday 22nd February: 2.30pm Film Matinée in St Joseph’s Hall. The musical comedy ‘Thoroughly Modern Millie’, starring Julie Andrews. All are welcome.

Thursday 22nd February Grand/Mothers’ Prayer Group: 2.30pm-4.00pm at Newbury Grove Care Home, 370 London Rd. RG14 2QH to pray for the needs of our children and grandchildren, and for a strengthening of faith. Refreshments provided. If interested please contact, elizmatias43@gmail.com or just come along!

Friday 23rd February: ‘CAFOD LENT FAMILY FAST DAY’ – Envelopes are distributed on Sunday 18th Feb, or you can make an on-line donation at: cafod.org.uk Youth Group - PANCAKES! 6-8pm at St Francis de Sales. Please email: ellenmclinch@gmail.com for details. All young people in year 4 and upwards are welcome.

Saturday 24th February: 10.00am-12 noon Preparation Session for the First Holy Communion Programme in St Joseph’s Hall. The children will participate also in the 11.00am Mass tomorrow – 25th February.

Friday 1st March: Women’s’ World Day of Prayer Service 10.30am at St John’s Church, Newbury. (An international, inter-church event led by women which enables us to hear from women around the world.) This year it is appropriately planned by the Christian women of Palestine witnessing to the love of Christ. The theme for 2024 is 'Bear with one another in love' - appropriate for these women who will not give up on their faith.

Saturday 9th March: Pastoral Area Lent Retreat. This will be at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford, on Saturday 9th March starting at 10.00 am and concluding with Mass at 4.00pm. It will again be led by Fr. Thomas Kleinschmidt OMV. ALL will be most welcome and please bring a packed lunch

Friday 15 th March: St Patrick’s Celebration in St Joseph’s Hall. Join us at this parish event for an evening of food, music and good company. Tickets £15 per person (to include a 2 course meal) – proceeds will go to St Joseph’s Church. To book, please call Marion on 0773 298 1847 or email shawmpj@gmail.com.

PAPAL COMMUNICATION: Pope Francis’ Message for Lent 2024 is on liberation - drawing parallels between the Exodus story and contemporary struggles for freedom. Emphasising the importance of listening to the cries of the oppressed and confronting personal and societal idols, the Pope calls for a Lent marked by prayer, fasting, and communal action. It is available to view at www.vaticannews.va

JOB VACANCY: St Joseph’s Primary School and Nursery is seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, passionate class teacher to join their caring, welcoming, and diverse school family. For further information, please go to www.stjosephs.w-berks.sch.uk. Closing date for applications: Friday 23rd February

4th february 2024

Wednesday 14th February: ASH WEDNESDAY – marks the start of Lent.

Friday 16th February: Parish Quiz Night in St Joseph’s Parish Hall. This event is now sold out. Doors open at 6.30pm for prompt quiz start at 7pm. Proceeds will go St Joseph’s Church. Please bring your own drinks and nibbles, together with glasses, plates and cutlery from which to enjoy them.

The next Youth Group is on Friday 23rd February: PANCAKES! 6-8pm at St Francis de Sales. Please email: ellenmclinch@gmail.com for details. All young people in year 4 and upwards are welcome.

Piano Recital by Christopher Burrows at St Joseph’s Church on Saturday, 2nd March 2024 at 6pm. Programme to include works by Chopin, Beethoven, Bach, Brahms and Mozart. Tickets £15 (payable at door) to include wine/sparkling wine and canapés during the interval.

Saturday 16th March: The Diocesan Dialogue with Cultural Sector Team is hosting a Symposium on medical and social ethics entitled ‘What does it mean to be Human? Medical Ethics and Social Care Today’ at The Arc, Winchester from 10.30am-4.15pm. Tickets are priced at £20 for the day, including sandwiches and refreshments and can be purchased via this link: www.whatdoes-it-mean-to-be-humansymposium.eventbrite.co.uk

‘You Will be my Witnesses’ (the Diocesan 10 Year Mission Plan). Copies of the Diocese’s finalised plan, together with a supply of summary leaflets are available - please ask Fr Michael to borrow them, and please return. Our West Berks Pastoral Area is asked to submit its first draft of our Pastoral Area Plan to the bishop by 26th March. This is being formulated by our Evangelisation Strategy Committee. Bishop Philip will visit us to discuss it in the summer

STUDYING STEWARDSHIP: Church-run Universities in Rome have launched an online diploma in integral ecology, aiming to respond to "the unprecedented challenge facing the planet." Further details may be obtained via: www.indcatholicnews.com/news/48988

Important Notice - Medjugorge Youth Festival – after consultation it has been agreed that anyone wishing to be part of this pilgrimage must book directly with the travel company and this event is not now a Parish or Pastoral Area responsibility. If you wish to book, please contact Sue Smith who has details of the Company organising this pilgrimage: Susan.smith313@ntlworld.com

Lourdes Pilgrimage 1st -5 th July 2024 (Applications Close on Sunday 11th February!) Travelling from Stansted direct to Lourdes. Full board, flights and transfers: £759 per person sharing; Single room supplement £35 per night; Travel insurance via Joe Walsh Tours - £49 per person up to age 79, £98 per person 80 to 90 years; Luggage allowance included in price. Additional cost for transport to and from Stansted to be advised, subject to numbers travelling. Please express your interest to Fr Michael or to Anne Paice - email: annepaice62@yahoo.co.uk

Friday 9th February: 2.30pm: Film Matinée in the parish hall today. ‘The Shoes of the Fisherman’, based on Morris West’s novel about the election of a first Russian Pope, starring Anthony Quinn, Laurence Olivier, and John Gielgud.

Thursday 8th February: Grand/Mothers’ Prayer Group: 2.30pm-4.00pm at Newbury Grove Care Home, 370 London Rd. RG14 2QH to pray for the needs of our children and grandchildren, and for a strengthening of faith. Refreshments provided. The Movement exists in over 100 countries. If interested please contact, elizmatias43@gmail.com or just come along!

Wednesday 7th February: Open Church 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection. All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

28th January 2024

Friday 16th February: Parish Quiz Night in St Joseph’s Parish Hall. This event is now sold out. Doors open at 6.30pm for prompt quiz start at 7pm. Proceeds will go St Joseph’s Church. Please bring your own drinks and nibbles, together with glasses, plates and cutlery from which to enjoy them.

The next Youth Group is on Friday 23rd February: PANCAKES! 6-8pm at St Francis de Sales. Please email: ellenmclinch@gmail.com for details. All young people in year 4 and upwards are welcome.

‘You Will be my Witnesses’ (the Diocesan 10 Year Mission Plan). We have now received several copies of the diocese’s finalised plan, together with a small supply of summary leaflets also. Please ask Fr Michael if you would like to review these. Please then return for others to see. Our West Berks Pastoral Area is asked to submit its first draft of our Pastoral Area Plan to the bishop by 26th March. This is being formulated by our Evangelisation Strategy Committee. Bishop Philip will visit us to discuss it in the summer.

Letters of thanks: The parish has received letters of thanks for parishioners’ donations from The Friends of the Holy Land, Missio, and Aid to the Church in Need. The letters are displayed on the noticeboard at the back of church.

Exploring Faith: ‘Into the Truth’ is a podcast series from the Catholic Truth Society broadcast every Thursday. This week ‘What it was like at the Synod’ Fr Jan Nowotnik offers some wisdom on the Synod on Synodality, which he attended in Rome.
This podcast, together with previous ones in the series, can be accessed at www.ctsbooks.org/into-the-truth

21st January 2024

NEW!! Following a suggestion by volunteers, tea and coffee will now also be served in the hall after the 08.30am Mass! Thanks to all those are prepared to help facilitate this. More volunteers are needed, however, to sign up to assist the rota for tea/coffee preparation after this Mass. Please make yourself known if you are willing to help from time to time!

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 18th -25th January: Praying for the unity of the Church involves a recognition not only of the brokenness of Christian relationships, but also how injustice in the world at large rends asunder Christian communities and impedes our participation in God’s mission. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity began last Thursday and ends on the Conversion of St Paul next Thursday, 25th January. This year the theme is: ‘You shall love the Lord your God … and your neighbour as yourself’ (Lk 10:27) and the working material has come from an ecumenical team in Burkina Faso: www. cte.org.uk/wpcu2024/

Wednesday 24th January: Open Church 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection. All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

Thursday 25th January: New ‘Grand/Mothers’ Prayer Group’: To meet this, and every Thursday, at Newbury Grove Care Home, 370 London Rd. RG14 2QH from 2.30pm-4.00pm to pray for the needs of our children and grandchildren, and for a strengthening of faith. Refreshments provided. The Movement exists in over 100 countries. If interested please contact, elizmatias43@gmail.com or just come along!

Thursday 25th January 2.30pm: Film Matinée in the Parish hall – all welcome.

Thursday 25th January - 7.30pm: Pastoral Area Evangelisation Strategy Committee meeting, St Francis de Sales’ Church, Wash Common.

Saturday 10th February: Pre-Lent Reflection ‘How can Lent bring Joy?’ at Douai Abbey 10.30am to 4pm led by Abbot Paul Gunter. St Benedict mentions joy in his Rule solely to describe Lent! Liturgical texts and spiritual writings will provide the basis of our reflection on this season of joy. Contribution £25 made on the day please (lunch, coffee & tea incl.); £15 bring own lunch. Booking and enquiries: Email: guestmaster@douaiabbey.org.uk.

Friday 16th February: Parish Quiz Night in St Joseph’s Parish Hall. Doors open at 6.30pm for prompt quiz start at 7pm prompt. Teams of 6 only (come along as a team or join others on the night). Tickets £8 per person - proceeds will go St Joseph’s Church. Please bring your own drinks and nibbles, together with glasses, plates and cutlery from which to enjoy them. To book your tickets, please call Marion on 0773 298 1847 or email shawmpj@gmail.com.

Children’s Liturgy dates until Easter 2024: A Children’s Liturgy for all those of primary school age will take place in the parish hall during the 11am Sunday Mass on 4th February; 18th February; 3rd March and 24th March (Palm Sunday).

CAFOD meetings You are warmly invited to come to a CAFOD meeting to find about the difference that your donations make. On Saturday 27th January the meeting is at Corpus Christi Church hall, 60 Sturges Road, Wokingham RG40 2HE from 10:30am to 1:30pm or on Saturday 3rd February at St Philip Howard Church hall, Bishopsfield Road, Fareham PO14 1ND. A simple lunch will be provided at both meetings so please book your place so that we have an idea of numbers by emailing Jo on jlewry@cafod.org.uk or phone 07710 094447.

Positive Action: CAFOD and SCIAF are teaming up to bring the Big Lent Walk to Great Britain. More about what is proposed and what is possible may be found at: www.walk.cafod.org.uk/about

Exploring Faith: ‘Into the Truth’ is a new podcast series from the Catholic Truth Society broadcast every Thursday. This week ‘Vocations: Misconceptions, Calling and Discernment.’ In the third podcast of this series, Fr Nicholas Crowe OP shares his advice on living your vocation and discernment while tackling misconceptions:www.ctsbooks.org/into-the-truth

Lourdes Pilgrimage 1st -5 th July 2024 Travelling from Stansted direct to Lourdes. Full board, flights and transfers: £759 per person sharing; Single room supplement £35 per night; Travel insurance via Joe Walsh Tours - £49 per person up to age 79, £98 per person 80 to 90 years; Luggage allowance included in price. Additional cost for transport to and from Stansted to be advised, subject to numbers travelling. Please express your interest to Fr Michael or to Anne Paice - email: annepaice62@yahoo.co.uk

Important Notice - Medjugorge Youth Festival – after consultation it has been agreed that anyone wishing to be part of this pilgrimage must book directly with the travel company and this event is not now a Parish or Pastoral Area responsibility. If you wish to book please contact Sue Smith who has details of the Company org

14th Jabuary 2024

NEW!! Following a suggestion by volunteers, tea and coffee will now also be served in the hall after the 08.30am Mass! Thanks to all those are prepared to help facilitate this. All are encouraged to remain for 10/15 minutes after Mass to socialise together.
11.00am Mass – Our children preparing for 1st Holy Communion will take part in this Mass today. Tea and coffee will be served in the hall after Mass. All are welcome.

Wednesday 17th January: Open Church 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection. All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

Thursday 18 th January: NO MASS at St Joseph’s this morning. Start of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. 7.30pm RCIA Meeting in St Francis de Sales’ parish hall, Wash Common.

Friday 19th January: West Berkshire Pastoral Area Youth Group: The first Youth Group of 2024 will commence with a Kiki Curry and team building games on Friday 19th January 6-8pm at St Francis de Sales. Welcome to anyone from Year 4 upwards. A £2 contribution is requested towards the running of the group. Please contact ellenmclinch@gmail.com if you would like to come so that the team know how much curry to cook!

Sunday 21st January: The annual 2nd Collection at Masses on 21st January for our diocesan cathedral of St John’s, Portsmouth. Emergency leak repairs in the Blessed Sacrament and St Patrick chapels, and the Discovery Centre, have cost £23,060; restoration following collapse of the West Window totals more than £100,000 of which £38,000 has been raised; the 25 year-old three cathedral boilers are beyond further repair; and the 2023 Quinquennial Survey outlines repair works in excess of £1 million. The challenges are many!

Friday 16th February: Parish Quiz Night in St Joseph’s Parish Hall. Doors open at 6.30pm for the quiz start at 7pm prompt. Teams of 6 only (come along as a team or join others on the night). Tickets £8 per person - proceeds will go St Joseph’s Church. Please bring your own drinks and nibbles, together with glasses, plates and cutlery from which to enjoy them. To book your tickets, please call Marion on 0773 298 1847 or email shawmpj@gmail.com.

Piano Recital by Christopher Burrows at St Joseph’s Church on Saturday, 2nd March 2024 at 6pm. Programme to include works by Chopin, Beethoven, Bach, Brahms and Mozart. Tickets £15 (payable at door) to include wine/sparkling wine and canapés during the interval.

CAFOD School Volunteers needed. Do you enjoy working with children and young people? Could you help to inspire and empower children and young people in your local Catholic schools by delivering an assembly or a workshop? Supported by CAFOD with training and all resources provided please consider the role of CAFOD school volunteer. For more information contact Jo Lewry at email jlewry@cafod.org.uk or phone 07710 094447.

PAPAL COMMUNICATION: Pope Francis’ Prayer Video for January has the theme ‘For the gift of diversity in the Church’. Video link at: www.thepopevideo.org

Lourdes Pilgrimage 1 st -5 th July 2024 Travelling from Stansted direct to Lourdes. Full board, flights and transfers: £759 per person sharing; Single room supplement £35 per night; Travel insurance via Joe Walsh Tours - £49 per person up to age 79, £98 per person 80 to 90 years; Luggage allowance included in price. Additional cost for transport to and from Stansted to be advised, subject to numbers travelling. Please express your interest to Fr Michael or to Anne Paice - email: annepaice62@yahoo.co.uk

West Berkshire Action for Refugees The accommodation issue mentioned in the newsletter recently has been successfully resolved and the family are doing well. West Berkshire Action for Refugees continues to support refugee families in the local area who have received permission to live and work in the UK. They are teamed with the national charity Refugees at Home to provide support with accommodation, employment and English classes. For information about their work or to offer practical support, please contact Claire McCorquodale on 07717 644991.

07th January 2024

Friday 16th February: Parish Quiz Night in St Joseph’s Parish Hall. Doors open at 6.30pm for prompt quiz start at 7pm prompt. Teams of 6 only (come along as a team or join others on the night). Tickets £8 per person - proceeds will go St Joseph’s Church. Please bring your own drinks and nibbles, together with glasses, plates and cutlery from which to enjoy them. To book your tickets, please call Marion on 0773 298 1847 or email shawmpj@gmail.com.

CAFOD School Volunteers needed. Do you enjoy working with children and young people? Could you help to inspire and empower children and young people in your local Catholic schools by delivering an assembly or a workshop? Supported by CAFOD with training and all resources provided please consider the role of CAFOD school volunteer. For more information contact Jo Lewry at email jlewry@cafod.org.uk or phone 07710 094447

CHRISTMAS CRIB OFFERINGS 2023: Donations raised for the Friends of the Holy Land (FHL) have reached £331.17. Thank you. The FHL are well-placed to get urgent, direct aid to the families across the Holy Land most in need, powered by your help.

TEACHING POINT The Christmas feast proper ends on the final day of its octave, the solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, on 1st January. The ‘peak’ of the Christmas ‘season’, however, is the Feast of the Epiphany, 6th January (transferred to today), the end of the 12 Days of Christmas. Tree and other decorations are traditionally kept up at least until this day is over. The official end of the Christmas season in the current liturgical calendar is the Baptism of the Lord (this year falling tomorrow), after which Ordinary Time begins. The nativity scene may be displayed through this day or until the Presentation of the Lord on 2nd February, a feast of Jesus, and the end of the ancient Forty Days of the Christmas season.

New ‘Mothers’ Prayer Group’: The group’s aim is to pray for the needs of our children, and for a strengthening of faith. The Movement exists in over 100 countries and members meet in one another’s homes for a brief service, followed by tea and a chat. It is proposed to meet on a weekday at 2.30p.m. - finishing by 4pm. If interested please contact, elizmatias43@gmail.com. Start date, and more details to follow.

West Berkshire Action for Refugees are supporting refugee families in the local area who have received permission to live and work in the UK. They are teamed with the national charity Refugees at Home to find temporary accommodation while the Council find longer term accommodation solutions. A refugee family of two who are part of our congregation are urgently looking for temporary accommodation. For further information contact Claire McCorquodale on 07717 644991

SVP (St Vincent de Paul) Annual Appeal: The SVP (Newbury) Conference will shortly have their annual Appeal. If, however, you wish to donate now, SVP would happily receive donations. Details: Sort Code 60 60 04; Account Number 46075054. Account name ‘SVP SS Joseph and Francis de Sales Newbury’. With thanks, the SVP Conference.

31st December

Piano Recital by Christopher Burrows at St Joseph’s Church on Saturday, 2nd March at 6pm. Programme to include works by Chopin, Beethoven, Bach, Brahms and Mozart. Tickets £15 (payable at door) to include wine/sparkling wine and canapés during the interval.

Friday 16th February: Parish Quiz Night in St Joseph’s Parish Hall. Doors open at 6.30pm for prompt quiz start at 7pm prompt. Teams of 6 only (come along as a team or join others on the night). Tickets £8 per person - proceeds will go St Joseph’s Church. Please bring your own drinks and nibbles, together with glasses, plates and cutlery from which to enjoy them. To book your tickets, please call Marion on 0773 298 1847 or email shawmpj@gmail.com.

CHRISTMAS CRIB OFFERINGS 2023: Donations for the Friends of the Holy Land (FHL) as our fellow Christians are suffering greatly. We face the possibility of the last members of the ancient Christian community leaving the homeland of our faith forever. The FHL are well-placed to get urgent, direct aid to the families across the Holy Land most in need, powered by your help.

EXPLORING FAITH ‘Into the Truth’ is a new podcast series from the Catholic Truth Society scheduled to be broadcast every Thursday. The first uncovers the truth about the mysterious Star of Bethlehem and its significance in the Christmas story:
www.ctsbooks.org/into-the-truth/thestar-of-bethlehem-podcast/

New ‘Mothers’ Prayer Group’: The group’s aim is to pray for the needs of our children, and for a strengthening of faith. The Movement exists in over 100 countries and members meet in one another’s homes for a brief service, followed by tea and a chat. From the new year it is proposed to meet on a weekday at 2.30p.m. - finishing by 4pm. If interested please contact, elizmatias43@gmail.com. Start date, and more details to follow.

Monday 1st January: 12 noon Mass of Healing, Anointing and Blessing of the Sick on the Feast of Mary, Mother of God, at St Francis de Sales’ Church, Wash Common, at which Fr Zbigniew and Fr Michael will be offering the sacrament.

Wednesday 3 rd January: Open Church 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection. All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

Thursday 4 th January: THERE IS NO MASS TODAY. 7.30pm: RCIA Meeting for candidates at Our Lady of Lourdes, Hungerford.

Friday 5th January: Holy Rosary recited after 10.00am Mass today.

Sunday 7th January: The Epiphany of the Lord As 6th January falls on a Saturday in 2024, the solemnity of The Epiphany is transferred to the adjacent Sunday, 7th January.

24th December

Wednesday 27th December: Open Church 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection. All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

Youth Group 2024: Dates for the first Half of the year: 19th January – curry night; 23rd February – pancake evening; 22nd March – Stations of the Cross; 26th April; 17th May; 28th June and 19th July. Please email Ellen Clinch with any questions. ellenmclinch@gmail.com

THANK YOU! – A letter of thanks from the West Berks Foodbank for St Joseph’s parishioners’ recent donation of £200 is on the noticeboard at the back of church.

Congratulations St Joseph’s School! We offer our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the Teaching Staff and Governing Body of our school on the wonderful result of their recent OFSTED inspection. A great result which reflects much hard work.

Closer to Christ Campaign – Bishop Philip has written to give his deep and heartfelt thanks to Fr Michael and the parishioners of St Joseph’s for the efforts made in conducting and supporting this campaign. The Group 5 parishes, of which St Joseph’s was one of twelve, were key in building momentum and inspiring following groups to take part in this vital initiative across the Diocese.

CHRISTMAS CRIB OFFERINGS 2023: Donations this year to the Friends of the Holy Land (FHL) as our fellow Christians are suffering greatly. Bethlehem in 2023 is in turmoil. All Christmas hotel bookings are cancelled. Bethlehem has taken down its Christmas decorations in solidarity with those suffering, and all celebrations have been called off - even the traditional tree lighting in Manger Square. The situation for Christians is dire, and we face the possibility of the last members of the ancient Christian community leaving the homeland of our faith forever. The FHL office in Bethlehem and contacts in Gaza, Israel and Jordan are well-placed to get urgent, direct aid to the families across the Holy Land most in need, powered by your help.

Forthcoming parish events: There will be a Quiz Night on 16th February and a St Patrick’s Celebration on 15th March – everyone welcome! Further details to follow.

New ‘Mothers’ Prayer Group’: The aim of this group is to pray for the needs of our children, particularly for a strengthening of faith. The Movement exists in over 100 countries and members meet in one another`s homes for a brief service, followed by tea and a chat. From the new year it is proposed to meet on a weekday at 2.30p.m. - finishing by 4pm. If interested please contact, elizmatias43@gmail.com. Start date, and more details to follow

ST JOSEPH’S PARISH HALL: The hall is often available for your bookings for social events, classes, or activities. Reasonable hire rates. Please contact Anne Paice to book on email: annepaice62@yahoo.co.uk

17th December

Stall in the Hall! - A stall selling new and pre-loved toys, hand knitted blankets, costume jewellery, small gifts, birthday cards etc. will be in the hall after 11.00am Mass today. Proceeds to ‘Aid to the Church in Need’ charity.

Tuesday 19th December *ADVENT PENITENTIAL SERVICE* - 7.30pm in St Joseph’s Church for the parishes of the West Berks Pastoral Area. This is your opportunity to make your Confession in readiness for Christmas! Six priests will be present to assist. Do not let the Sacrament be last on your list of preparations for Christmas!!

Wednesday 20th December: Open Church 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection. All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

Thursday 21st December: 7.30pm RCIA Meeting for candidates at St Francis de Sales’, Wash Common. Thursday 21st December: 2.30pm Film Matinée ‘The Amazing Mr Blunden’ – a charming ghost story for Christmas! All welcome.

24th December (4th Sunday of Advent & Christmas Eve) !! Apart from the usual Sunday morning Masses next Sunday, there will be Children’s First Mass of Christmas at 6.30pm, and an 11pm Christmas Mass taking us into Christmas Day.

ADVENT & CHRISTMAS ACROSS OUR PASTORAL AREA - Hungerford & Wash Common - Newbury - Thatcham - Woolhampton

Click here to view Mass times for Advent & Christmas across our Pastoral Area

THANK YOU! – to parishioners who make donations towards the cost of their refreshments in the hall after 11.00am Mass on Sundays. In your name, £200 has been donated to the Newbury Food Bank in order to purchase supplies to assist families over the Christmas period. Your kindness is appreciated.

Congratulations St Joseph’s School! We offer our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the Teaching Staff and Governing Body of our school on the wonderful result of their recent OFSTED inspection. A great result which reflects much hard work.

New ‘Mothers’ Prayer Group’: The aim of this group is to pray for the needs of our children, particularly for a strengthening of faith. The Movement exists in over 100 countries and members meet in one another`s homes for a brief service, followed by tea and a chat. From the new year it is proposed to meet on Thursdays at 2.30p.m. - finishing by 4pm. If interested please contact, elizmatias43@gmail.com. Start date, and more details to follow.

Forthcoming parish events: There will be a Quiz Night on 16th February and a St Patrick’s Ceilidh on 15th March – everyone welcome! Further details to follow later this month

10th December

Advent and Christmas across our Pastoral Area: Please visit the Parish website for Mass times across our Pastoral Area (Hungerford & Wash Common, Newbury, Thatcham and Woolhampton).

Click here to view Mass times for Advent & Christmas across our Pastoral Area

The Advent Pastoral Letter from Bishop Philip, which was delivered in Masses last Sunday, can be found on the Parish website. If you would like a paper copy, please ask Fr Michael. A link to the Pastoral Letter video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YSyU9-liMo

*ADVENT PENITENTIAL SERVICE* - 7.30pm Tuesday 19th December in St Joseph’s Church for the parishes of the West Berks Pastoral Area. This is your opportunity to make your Confession in readiness for Christmas! Six priests will be present to assist.
Do not let the Sacrament be last on your list of preparations for Christmas!!

Monday 11th December: 10.00am End of Term School Mass at St Joseph’s for the children and staff of our parish school.

Monday 11th December: 6pm: CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE for St Joseph’s School in our church. All are welcome!

Wednesday 13th December: Open Church 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection.
All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

Wednesday 13th December 7.30pm: Parish Finance Committee Meeting in the Parish Hall.

Thurs 14th December: 8pm The Synod Experience - Free online talk by Austen Ivereigh, biographer of Pope Francis and participant in the Synod. “What has the synodal experience been like? Are we becoming a listening Church? Are we valuing others?”. Hosted on Zoom by the LCSB (Lay Community of St Benedict). To register www.lcsb.uk Click on Events, then Advent 2023.

Saturday 16th December: 10am – 12noon. Children’s Preparation Session for First Holy Communion Programme Candidates in the Parish Hall
during which the candidates will also receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time at a Celebration in the church at 11.15am.

3rd December

Wednesday 6th December: Open Church 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection.
All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

Wednesday 6th December - 7.15pm: Bible Study session with Fr Peter at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford. All welcome.

Thursday 7th December: N.B. NO Mass at 10.00am - 12.00 noon Requiem Mass for William Coffey RIP.

Thursday 7th December - 7.30pm CIA Meeting, St Francis de Sales’, Wash Common

Sunday 10th December: 11am Mass: Children’s Liturgy will take place in the hall for all those of primary school age.

TUESDAY 19th DECEMBER 7:30pm Pastoral Area Penitential Service at St Joseph’s, Newbury.

Thurs 14th December: 8pm The Synod Experience - Free online talk by Austen Ivereigh, biographer of Pope Francis and participant in the Synod. “What has the synodal experience been like? Are we becoming a listening Church? Are we valuing others?”. Hosted on Zoom by the LCSB (Lay Community of St Benedict). To registerwww.lcsb.uk Click on Events, then Advent 2023.

Friday 15th December: Youth Group – Young people in year 4 and upwards are invited to a Christmas celebration on Friday 15th December 6-8 pm at St Francis de Sales. *Please bring a plate of food to share *£1 donation to CAFOD * A donation to West Berks Food Bank. (All optional - only do what you can afford). Here is a link which shows which supplies they are urgently in need of …https://westberks.foodbank.org.uk/givehelp/donate-food/… Fun activities planned include biscuit decorating, crafts, games and table football.
Concludes with a beautiful Christmas reflection before parents pick up at 8pm. Hope to see you then.

Please email Ellen Clinch with any questions. ellenmclinch@gmail.com

Youth Group dates for the rest of the academic year: 19th January – curry night; 23rd February – pancake evening; 22nd March – Stations of the Cross; 26th April; 17th May; 28th June and 19th July.

Forthcoming parish social events: There will be a Quiz Night on 16th February and a St Patrick’s Ceilidh on 15th March – everyone welcome! Further details to follow in the newsletter later this month.

Lourdes Pilgrimage July 2024 – Expression of interest: It is proposed to arrange a larger pilgrimage group to Lourdes next July – open to the other parishes in the West Berks Pastoral area. If interested, - and without any commitment at this stage - please express your interest to Fr Michael or to Anne Paice.

31st July to 7th August 2024: Medjugorge Youth Festival. Planned pilgrimage for the Pastoral Area for the young at heart. Flights from Luton at cost of £729 Adults, £650 under 26 years. Following the memorable experience of this year and with our commitment to our youth this should be a wonderful experience. Those interested (not a commitment) please contact Sue Smith by email - susan.smith313@ntlworld.com

Positive Reflections: A study produced by the Institute for the Impact of Faith in Life reveals that people of faith in Britain are significantly happier than atheists and nonreligious people. The full report may be viewed at: www.iifl.org.uk/reports/keep-the-faith-mental-healthin-the-uk/

26h November

Lourdes Pilgrimage July 2024 – Expression of interest. It is proposed to arrange a larger pilgrimage group to Lourdes next July – open to the other parishes in the West Berks Pastoral area. If interested, - and without any commitment at this stage - please express your interest to Fr Michael or to Anne Paice.

From Caritas Portsmouth: COP28 (Climate Change Conference) is approaching (30 Nov – 12 Dec). In ‘Laudate Deum’, Pope Francis describes how some changes needed to slow climate change must come through government action. Pray that leaders listen to those affected by climate change and have courage to act. Join other Christians groups in prayer and fasting on the 1st of each month https://prayandfastfortheclimate.org.uk/ Use the prayer and intercessions from CAFOD including links to share the Pope's message with your MP.

Are you ill, worried or searching? An experienced and trained Catholic prayer ministry team will gladly pray with you over the phone. See www.altonrenewal.com/prayer_request for details.

West Berkshire Action for Refugees are supporting refugee families in the local area who have received permission to live and work in the UK. They are teamed with the national charity Refugees at Home to find temporary accommodation while the Council find longer term accommodation solutions. A refugee family of two who are part of our congregation are urgently looking for temporary accommodation. For further information contact Claire McCorquodale on 07717 644991.

Papal Compassion Pope Francis is in daily contact with the Catholic community at Gaza's Church of the Holy Family, currently sheltering around 700 Palestinians who have lost their homes in the ongoing bombardment by Israel. More details are available at: www.indcatholicnews.com/news/48434

19th November

Sunday 19th November: 11am The First Holy Communion candidates and their families will assist in the celebration of Mass today.

Wednesday 22nd November: Open Church 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection. All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

Wednesday 22nd November: 7.15pm: Bible Study session with Fr Peter at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford. All welcome.

Wednesday 22nd November: 7.30pm YMCA AGM at 7.30pm at Riverside Community Centre, Rosemoor Gardens, Newbury. RG14 2FG on the Turnpike Estate. All welcome.

Thursday 23rd November: 7.30pm RCIA Meeting at St Francis de Sales’ Church, Wash Common.

Friday 24th November 6.30pm Newbury Market Place: A Vigil to mark the start of COP 28 meeting of world leaders-the 28th annual United Nations climate meeting in Dubai (30th Nov-12th Dec) where nations will discuss how to prepare for future climate change. If concerned about the climate crisis, please come along! The Vigil will begin with groups gathering at 6pm at St Joseph's Church (North) and St John's Church (South) and at other locations. Groups will then process by candlelight from across town and converge in the Market Place for 6.30pm where there will be readings, poems and reflections etc. to mark the start of the COP28 event. It is hoped to make an impression on witnesses by a beautiful and memorable event. If unable to join a group at 6pm, go straight to the Market Place for 6.30pm. For further information contact ccawestberks@gmail.com

Sunday 26th November: 11.00am Mass – the Music Group will assist in the celebration of Mass.

Pastoral Area Advent Retreat. Saturday 2nd December 10.00am, concludes with Mass 4.00pm, at Our Lady of Lourdes, Hungerford, led by Fr. Thomas Kleinschmidt OMV. All will be most welcome. Please bring something for a bring and share lunch.

West Berkshire Action for Refugees are supporting refugee families in the local area who have received permission to live and work in the UK. They are teamed with the national charity Refugees at Home to find temporary accommodation while the Council find longer term accommodation solutions. A refugee family of two who are part of our congregation are urgently looking for temporary accommodation. For further information contact Claire McCorquodale on 07717 644991.

SVP (St Vincent de Paul) Annual Appeal: Due to the present economic and seasonal demands the SVP (Newbury) Conference have decided to delay their annual Christmas Appeal for funds until the new year. SVP are very aware of how incredibly generous our parishioners are and have no desire to add to people’s strain. If, however, you have planned and wish to donate now, SVP would happily receive donations. With thanks, the SVP Conference.

CONSULTATION ON PRIMARY SCHOOL ADMISSIONS POLICY 2025–26: The Governing Body of St Joseph’s School are consulting on their Admissions Policy for the 2025–26 academic year for the required 6 week period between 13th Nov - 22nd Dec ‘23. School admission authorities must consult on admission arrangements if they propose a change other than an increase to their PAN (Published Admission Number). They must also consult if they have not consulted in the last 7 years. St Joseph’s School Governing Body is required to consult as they are proposing changes to their admissions policy to reflect the Diocese of Portsmouth’s CASO (Catholic Academies & Schools Office) model policy. View the proposed policy at this link: https://stjosephswestberks.securedbprimary.com/westberks/primary/stj osephs/site/pages/admissions/admissionspolicy2025- 26consultation

Email comments on the proposed 2025–26 Policy to the Clerk to Governors, Mrs Rachael House Gemmell rhousegemmell@stjosephs.w-berks.sch.uk or write to the Clerk via the School Office, St Joseph’s School, Newport Road, Newbury Berkshire RG14 2AW by 22nd December 2023

12th November

Sunday 12th November: REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY. 3pm: Shaw Cemetery – Fr Zbigniew from St Francis de Sales’ will be blessing graves in the cemetery this afternoon. Parishioners are welcome to join him at their family graves.

Wednesday 15th November: Open Church 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection. All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

N.B. There will be no 7.15pm: Bible Study session with Fr Peter this Wednesday at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford.

Thursday 16th November: 2.30pm Film Matinée in the Parish Hall. A musical from the 1950s will be shown. All welcome.

Friday 17th November: 11.30am Funeral Service for Peter Crimmins RIP.

Saturday 18th November: 10am-12noon. Children’s Preparation Session for the First Holy Communion Programme Candidates in the Parish Hall.

Sunday 19th November: 11am The First Holy Communion candidates and their families will assist in the celebration of Mass today.

Tuesday 21st November: the Diocese of Portsmouth, with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England & Wales, is hosting an online seminar on exploring strategies for all Catholics to fulfil their mission to bring people closer to Christ. Engaging the Disengaged is about how to accompany the non-religious person in daily life. Keynote address: by internationally acclaimed author Sherry Anne Weddell from the Catherine of Siena Institute. Demand for the event has been high but some tickets at £10 remain. Book at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/engaging-thedisengaged-how-to-accompany-non-religious-personstickets-646139539757

Wednesday 22nd November: YMCA AGM at 7.30pm at Riverside Community Centre, Rosemoor Gardens, Newbury, RG14 2FG on the Turnpike Estate. All are welcome.

Sunday 26th November 12 - 3pm: Christmas Fayre at St Francis de Sales’ Church, Wash Common, Festive refreshments and a variety of stalls including: bottle and chocolate tombolas, "lucky baubles," crafts, cakes and gifts. Proceeds to St Francis de Sales Justice and Peace charities. All welcome.

SVP (St Vincent de Paul) Annual Appeal: Due to the present economic and seasonal demands the SVP (Newbury) Conference have decided to delay their annual Christmas Appeal for funds until the new year. SVP are very aware of how incredibly generous our parishioners are and have no desire to add to people’s strain. If, however, you have planned and wish to donate now, SVP would happily receive donations. With thanks, the SVP Conference.

ST JOSEPH’S PARISH HALL: The hall is often available for your bookings for social events, classes, or activities. Reasonable hire rates. Please contact Anne Paice to book on email: annepaice62@yahoo.co.uk

5th November

Christmas Cards will be on sale in the Parish Hall after 11.00am Mass today. Also, Stall in the Hall! - A stall selling new and pre-loved toys, costume jewellery, small gifts, birthday cards etc. will be in the hall after 11.00am Mass today and on forthcoming Sundays. Proceeds will go to the ‘Aid to the Church in Need’ Charity.

Wednesday 8th November: Open Church 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection.
All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

Wednesday 8th November 7.15pm: Bible Study session with Fr Peter this Wednesday at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford.

Thursday 9th November: 7.30pm RCIA Meeting at St Francis de Sales’ Church, Wash Common.

Friday 10th November: 11.30am Funeral Service for Wally Marchetti RIP.

Saturday 11th November: ‘Armistice Day’ 11.00am Memorial Service at the War Memorial in Northbrook Street, Newbury. Fr Michael will be attending.

Sunday 12th November: REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY. 3pm: Shaw Cemetery – Fr Zbigniew from St Francis de Sales’ will be blessing graves in the cemetery this afternoon. Parishioners are welcome to join him at their family graves.

‘LEST WE FORGET’ – The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal lasts until Remembrance Sunday on 12th November. Poppy sales assist crucial work in support of veterans in difficult circumstances suffering with disabilities, PTSD, or financial issues. Get your poppy today in church and wear it with pride and gratitude for the sacrifices of our Armed Forces.

Month of the Holy Souls – November: Envelopes and forms are available in church for you to list your deceased relatives and friends for whom Mass can be offered during November. On completion, please return to Fr Michael.

Covid and Places of Worship: You are encouraged to take part in a shortsurvey on the issue of church closures during the Covid lockdown. The survey takes less than two minutes and will help make the voices of Catholics heard as part of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry. To complete, go to https://catholicunion.org.uk

ST JOSEPH’S PARISH HALL: The hall is often available for your bookings for social events, classes, or activities. Reasonable hire rates. Please contact Anne Paice to book on email: annepaice62@yahoo.co.uk

Catholic Listeners is a new confidential helpline service which has been set up for those who want to return to the faith and are in need of a safe space to be heard. Operating from 1600hrs – 1900hrs on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays calls are free on 0800 448 0704. To find out more e-mail: Catholiclisteners@gmail.com

CTNA (Churches Together in Newbury Area) COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS DAY EVENT. A Christmas Lunch event will take place in St George’s Church Hall, 10.00am – 4pm, for those who might otherwise spend the day alone or without a meal. Volunteers are needed to set up the hall and prepare vegetables (1.30pm-3pm Christmas Eve) – on the day: drivers, entertainers, washer-uppers, servers, and one large Christmas cake! If you, yourself, will be alone and want to join the lunch or for information contact Joanna Abraham 07828 44119 or email marinaoabraham@gmail.com

29th October

Month of the Holy Souls – November: Envelopes and forms are available in church for you to list your deceased relatives and friends for whom Mass can be offered during November. On completion, please return to Fr Michael.

Sunday 5th November: Bamenda Sunday when the diocese annually celebrates its link with the Archdiocese of Bamenda in the Cameroon; gives thanks for the ministry of their five priests serving in our Diocese; prays for our brothers and sisters in Bamenda and for the restoration of peace and justice in the region; and gives to the annual appeal to support projects in Bamenda in 2024 - the 50th anniversary of the formation of the link! See the annual Bamenda News update: https://www.bamendaandportsmouth.com/in dex.php. There will be a second collection at Masses on 5 th November or donations can be made online securely at https://www.bamendaandportsmouth.com/donate .php.

Foreign Currency: An accumulation of loose change foreign currency placed in the church collection cannot be exchanged for sterling. If anyone is visiting the following countries and would welcome some change please ask Fr Michael: Australia, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, India, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Poland, Singapore, Sweden, South Africa, Switzerland, Turkey.

CTNA (Churches Together in Newbury Area) COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS DAY EVENT. A Christmas Lunch event will take place in St George’s Church Hall, 10.00am – 4pm, for those who might otherwise spend the day alone or without a meal. Volunteers are needed to set up the hall and prepare vegetables (1.30pm-3pm Christmas Eve) – on the day: drivers, entertainers, washer-uppers, servers, and one large Christmas cake! If you, yourself, will be alone and want to join the lunch or for information contact Joanna Abraham 07828 44119 or email marinaoabraham@gmail.com

Catholic Listeners is a new confidential helpline service which has been set up for those who want to return to the faith and are in need of a safe space to be heard. Operating from 1600hrs – 1900hrs on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays calls are free on 0800 448 0704. To find out more e-mail: Catholiclisteners@gmail.com

56th anniversary of the Abortion Act: 27th October 2023 marked 56 years since the Abortion Act received Royal Assent in 1967. Since then, a staggering 10,256,050 unborn babies have lost their lives to abortion across England, Wales, and Scotland. Right To Life UK has published an article about this anniversary, which you can read on this link: www.righttolife.org.uk/56years

Wednesday 1st November: ALL SAINTS. (Holy Day of Obligation) Masses at 10.00am and 7pm.

Wednesday 1st November - Open Church 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half on Wednesday afternoon for quiet prayer and reflection.
All are welcome to come along at any time whilst the church is open.

Wednesday 1st November - 7.15pm: Bible Study session with Fr Peter this Wednesday at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford.

Thursday 2nd November: ALL SOULS. Mass at 10.00am. 11.30am: Funeral Service for Julie Smith RIP.

Friday 3rd November: Recitation of the Holy Rosary follows straight after 10.00am Mass today.

Saturday 4th November: 11.30am Altar Server Instruction Session, in the church (1 hour). Would anyone like to become an Altar Server to assist at Sunday Masses – youngsters or adults?
If so, please come along this morning and learn more!

‘LEST WE FORGET’ – The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal has begun, building towards Remembrance Sunday on 12th November. Poppy sales assist crucial work in support of veterans in difficult circumstances suffering with disabilities, PTSD, or financial issues. Get your poppy today and wear it with pride and gratitude for the sacrifices of our Armed Forces.

22nd October

Sunday 29th October: Christmas Cards will be on sale in the Parish Hall after 11.00am Mass today, and on following Sundays.

1pm. Come to lunch! On Sunday 29th October at St Francis de Sales’ Church Hall, pilgrims who recently went to Medjugorje in September are hosting a bringand-share lunch at which you can hear more about the amazing time they had and how God blessed them. You are welcome!

Friday 10th November: 7.00pm Film & Supper evening in the parish hall – the film title will be announced shortly! A chilli con carne and jacket potato supper will be served (£12 per person) or if you prefer, just come along for the film. Please bring your own drinks – and glasses from which to enjoy them. Tickets for the supper are available from Marion (email shawmpj@gmail.com or Annette (email annettehaines@tiscali.co.uk)

VATICAN PROCLAMATION The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith has recently published Pope Francis' response to five 'dubia' (questions; literally 'doubts') presented by five Cardinals. The questions concerning the interpretation of Divine Revelation, the blessing of same-sex unions, synodality as a constitutive dimension of the Church, the priestly ordination of women, and repentance as a necessary condition for sacramental absolution. Details of the dialogue are on the web site of the CNA (Catholic News Agency) at www.catholicnewsagency.com

Christian Leadership Formation Programme for students in Year 12: Are you currently in Lower Sixth/Year 12? Considering a public-facing career? Want to help build a Christian society? The Christian Leadership Formation programme uniquely offers stimulating and high-quality intellectual content, spiritual nourishment, personal development, interpersonal skills, team-building and socials in a tightly-knit community experience, with expert academics and professionals. Open to any student who is motivated by their faith and their studies, with bursaries available as needed. For more information and applications to the programme starting in early 2024, please visit www.christianleadershipformation.com

CTNA (Churches Together in Newbury Area) COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS DAY EVENT. Again, this year a Christmas Lunch event will take place in St George’s Church Hall, 10.00am – 4pm, for the elderly or lonely who might otherwise spend the day alone. Volunteers are needed to set up the hall and prepare vegetables (1.30pm-3pm Christmas Eve) – on the day: drivers, entertainers, washer-uppers, servers, and one large Christmas cake! For information contact Joanna Abraham 07828 44119 or email marinaoabraham@gmail.com

15th October

Friday 10th November: 7.00pm Film & Supper evening in the parish hall – the film title will be announced shortly! A chilli con carne and jacket potato supper will be served (£12 per person) or if you prefer, just come along for the film. Please bring your own drinks – and glasses from which to enjoy them. Tickets for the supper are available from Marion (email shawmpj@gmail.com or call 07732981847) or Annette (email annettehaines@tiscali.co.uk or call 07798577736).

N.B.- West Berkshire Pastoral Area Youth Group – The next meeting has been postponed from 20th October to Friday 3 rd November when youngsters will meet at the Waterside Centre in Newbury from 6 pm until 8 pm. There will be a variety of activities including climbing, youth leader based activities and crafts. The cost will be £5-£10 each (depending on how many sign up). If attending, please notify Ellen Clinch as soon as possible (by Friday 20th October at the latest) by emailing ellenmclinch@gmail.com

Christian Leadership Formation Programme for students in Year 12: Are you currently in Lower Sixth/Year 12? Are you considering a public-facing career? Do you want to help build a Christian society? The Christian Leadership Formation programme uniquely offers a combination of stimulating and highquality intellectual content, spiritual nourishment, personal development, inter-personal skills, teambuilding and socials in a tightly-knit community experience, with expert academics and professionals. Open to any student who is motivated by their faith and their studies, with bursaries available as needed. For more information and applications to the programme starting in early 2024, please visit www.christianleadershipformation.com

Sunday 22nd October: Today is ‘World Mission Sunday’ (Second Collection) when the Church unites through prayer for its missionary activity, and by collecting funds to support Catholic communities across the world experiencing situations of poverty and turmoil. The Holy Father’s theme is: ‘Hearts on fire, feet on the move’ (based on Luke 24). In his message for today, Pope Francis encourages us all to set hearts ablaze with God’s love and compassion for ‘everyone has the right to receive the Gospel and we as Christ’s followers have the duty to proclaim it without excluding anyone.’

Friday 20th October: 7.45pm- 9.30pm Deacon Martin McElroy (of the parish of St Peter’s, Winchester) invites you to a series of formation sessions (via Zoom) on "The Holy Spirit in Scripture", as part of our diocesan observance of the Year of the Holy Spirit. Each Friday evening (19:45-21:30) from 13th October to 24th November inclusive. Each session will be a mix of presentations by Deacon Martin, plus discussion groups sharing specific passages of Scripture related to the Spirit. Each session is independent of the others, so you are encouraged to attend some of them, even if you can't manage all 7. You need to register to join, so please sign up via this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEtce6ppz MtHtOrCQW_KztHsT1gBhXeJr95

SPIRITUAL SUPPORT: The ADoRE programme offers a confidential prayer ministry by telephone. To engage with this activity individuals are requested to call 07579 824523 Monday to Friday from 1000hrs to 1600hrs and leave only their name and number.

8th October

Wednesday 11th October: Open Church 12.30-2pm: The church will be open for an hour and a half each Wednesday afternoon at these times for quiet prayer and reflection.

Each Wednesday, two volunteers will be present throughout, and to open and lock the church.

Wednesday 11th October: - 7.15pm Bible Study with Fr Peter at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford. All are welcome.

Thursday 12th October: 2.30pm Film Matinée in St Joseph’s Hall. Drama ‘Conspiracy of Hearts’. All welcome.

Thursday 12th October: 7.30 to 9.00pm RCIA/Journey in our Catholic Faith, in the parish hall at St. Francis de Sales, Wash Common. For all wishing to explore the beliefs and practices of the Catholic Church, and for Catholics wishing to learn more about their faith.
For further information please contact Francis at fjcon@btinternet.com.

‘LAUDATE DEUM’ - Pope Francis on the Feast of St Francis of Assisi (4th October), published Laudate Deum: to all people of good will on the climate crisis, his new Exhortation on the environment, a follow up to his encyclical, Laudato Si’. The Pope says that “climate change is one of the principal challenges facing society and the global community” (Laudate Deum) and warns that the “world in which we live is collapsing and may be nearing the breaking point”.

Friday 13th October: 7.45pm- 9.30pm Deacon Martin McElroy (of the parish of St Peter’s, Winchester) invites you to a series of formation sessions (via Zoom) on "The Holy Spirit in Scripture", as part of our diocesan observance of the Year of the Holy Spirit. Each Friday evening (7.45pm – 9.30pm) from 13th October to 24th November inclusive. Each session will be a mix of presentations by Deacon Martin, plus discussion groups sharing specific passages of Scripture related to the Spirit. The series will cover how the Holy Spirit is depicted in the Old Testament, Gospels, Acts of the Apostles, the letters of Paul, the "general letters" and even the book of Revelation. Each session is independent of the others, so you are encouraged to attend some of them, even if you can't manage all seven. You need to register to join, so please sign up via this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEtce6ppz MtHtOrCQW_KztHsT1gBhXeJr95

Saturday 14th October: 10.00am - 12 noon First Holy Communion Preparation Session in St Joseph’s Parish Hall for all children enrolled in this year’s programme. The children will also take part in the 11.00am Mass on Sunday 15th October.

Friday 27th (6.30pm) to Sunday 29th October (4pm) – ‘Loving for Life non-residential Retreat’ (Making time and space for your marriage) Milner Room, St Peter's Church Winchester. Covers both relational (based on scientific research) and spiritual (the Good News) aspects of marriage. Register at marriagefamilylife@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk More info – 07387 645211. Cost: £160 a couple. Donations are welcome, as an alternative.

Friday 10th November: 7.00pm Film & Supper evening in the parish hall – the film title will be announced shortly. A chilli con carne and jacket potato supper will be served in the intermission (£12 per person) or if you prefer, just come along for the film. Please bring your own drinks – and glasses from which to enjoy them. Tickets for the supper are available from Marion (email shawmpv@gmail.com or call 07732981847) or Annette (email annettehaines@tiscali.co.uk or call 07798577736).

Diocesan Department for Vocations: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Do not be anxious about discerning your vocation. Ask the Holy Spirit and our Blessed Mother to help you recognise and be faithful to your vocation. Contact Cn. John Cooke via vocations@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk or call 01329 318 869.

SPIRITUAL SUPPORT: The ADoRE programme offers a confidential prayer ministry by telephone. To engage with this activity individuals are requested to call 07579 824523 Monday to Friday from 1000hrs to 1600hrs and leave only their name and number.

4th -29th October: Synodal Meeting of Bishops in Rome. Bishops from all over the world are presently in Rome for the 2023 Synod – part of a 3-year renewal process initiated by Pope Francis whereby all 1.3 billion Catholics have been invited to contribute their thoughts (as our parish did last year resulting in a summary ‘return’ being passed to the Bishops’ Conference). The Synod will focus on communion, participation and mission, not avoiding issues ranging from sexual abuse, married priests, to LGBTQ inclusion and female ordination. There will be 464 participants at the synod and 365 will have the right to vote. For the first time, lay men and women will be full voting members of the synod, alongside the bishops. “It is something truly important for the church,” Pope Francis said.

1st Ocober

Liturgy Formation for Readers. You Will be my Witnesses stresses the importance of a Christ-Centred Church realising the centrality of Sacred Liturgy and the value of Ongoing Formation.
Beginning on Wednesday 4th October, the Diocesan Liturgical Formation Team is pleased to host a series of formation sessions for readers, and anyone interested, during October and November. To register for the first session on Wednesday 4th October (on-line from 7 – 8pm) ‘Introduction to The Sacred Scriptures in the Liturgy’ with Fr Jeremy Corley, please contact the parish office or register via this link:

https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/38a8b121-7f56-4984-a9ae-8e7afaf08be5@0f107169-67e0-4eaf-8428-9e9f05e974ab

Friday 27th (6.30pm) to Sunday 29th October (4pm) – ‘Loving for Life non-residential Retreat’ (Making time and space for your marriage) Milner Room, St Peter's Church Winchester. Covers both relational (based on scientific research) and spiritual (the Good News) aspects of marriage. Register by 30th September at marriagefamilylife@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk More info – 07387 645211. Cost: £160 a couple. Donations are welcome, as an alternative.

The Holy Spirit in Scripture: Deacon Martin McElroy invites you to a series of formation sessions (via Zoom) on "The Holy Spirit in Scripture", as part of our diocesan observance of the Year of the Holy Spirit. They will be on Friday evenings (19:45-21:30) from 13th October to 24th November inclusive. Please save the dates, as more details about how to register will follow shortly.

Online seminar – Engaging the Disengaged: The Diocese in partnership with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales presents an online seminar on Tuesday 21st November exploring strategies for all Catholics to fulfil their mission to bring people closer to Christ by bestselling author Sherry Weddell. Tickets are £10 per person from https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/engaging-thedisengaged-how-to-accompanynon-religious-personstickets-646139539757

Libya – Disaster Relief: CAFOD have a ‘donations tab’ for Libya donations. Go to https://cafod.org.uk

The Catholic Union of Great Britain: Founded in 1870, the union is a membership organisation dedicated to the defence of Catholic values in Parliament and public life, and the promotion of the common good. The Union is a lay organisation which works with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales (CBCEW) and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Scotland (CBCS). The Catholic Union Charitable Trust is the Union’s charitable arm. It organises educational projects, lectures and discussions with prominent Catholics and others. “…the Catholic Union is a trusted friend and partner in our task of supporting the Catholic community in this country and in making the message of Christ heard in this land.” - Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster. Membership is open to practising members of the Catholic laity and includes people from all walks of life. Go to https://catholicunion.org.uk

24th September

Wednesday 27th September: 7.15pm Bible Study with Fr Peter resumes at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford. N.B. New start time! All are welcome.

Thursday 28th September: 7.30pm Meeting of the RCIA Group in St Francis de Sales’ Hall, Wash Common. Themes this week: The Church’s Liturgical Year and Seasons; the Mass and its centrality among the Sacraments.

Friday 29th September: 10.00am Mass; 12 noon - Funeral Service for Sheamus Rooney RIP (not a Mass).

Saturday 30th September: Face to Face Safeguarding Training in the Parish Hall. From Mary Barnard (Safeguarding Minister) - "Thank you to all those who are signed up to the safeguarding training next Saturday 30th. Everyone who is required to train has registered to attend which says so much for your dedication to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. Please be at the hall in time for a prompt 10 am start. Home baked treats will be provided for the morning and afternoon breaks, but bring a packed lunch if staying for the whole day". Email: safeguarding@stjosephsnewbury.org.uk

30th September: Marriage Enrichment Workshop 9:30am-4pm. If married for at least 10 years, then why not treat yourselves to a marriage enrichment workshop? Includes lunch. St John's Cathedral Hall, Portsmouth. rsvp: marriagefamilylife@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk to register. Cost £20/couple. Donations welcome.

CAFOD Family Fast Day Appeal Friday 6th October: The second occasion in the year to focus upon the hugely important work made possible by the CAFOD Relief Agency currently addressing humanitarian relief in Morocco, Libya, and Pakistan following their devastating incidents of natural disaster. Donate to CAFOD today so that more families can get the expert help they need. Use the envelope in church or give online at https://cafod.org.uk

Friday 27th (6.30pm) to Sunday 29th October (4pm) – ‘Loving for Life non-residential Retreat’ (Making time and space for your marriage) Milner Room, St Peter's Church Winchester. Covers both relational (based on scientific research) and spiritual (the Good News) aspects of marriage. Register by 30th September at marriagefamilylife@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk More info – 07387 645211. Cost: £160 a couple. Donations are welcome, as an alternative.

Libya – Disaster Relief: CAFOD have a ‘donations tab’ for Libya donations. Go to https://cafod.org.uk

Newbury Street Pastors: We heard a short brief about their work on the streets of our town after Mass a few months ago. An excellent short film can be accessed now about the Pastors on YouTube at –https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nj11dO441s8

17th September

Entire Family are Beatified: Last Sunday, the nine members of the Ulma family were beatified in their Polish hometown of Markowa, where they were martyred by Nazi soldiers for harbouring Jews during World War II. The beatified family members are Jozef and Wiktoria Ulma, and their children Stanisława, Barbara, Władysław, Franciszek, Antoni, Maria, and an unnamed child who was born at the moment of Wiktoria's martyrdom. In his homily at the Mass, Cardinal Semeraro said the Ulma’s family home became “an inn where the despised, outcast, and death-stricken was welcomed and cared for.” This is the first time a whole family has been beatified.

EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH The Margaret Beaufort Centre for Biblical Studies offers a 10 week online course on contemporary biblical studies. Runs 3rd October – 15th December 2023, 1730hrs to 1900hrs, taught by leading specialists in the fields of Hebrew Bible/Old Testament, Second Temple Judaism, and New Testament studies. Sessions encompass the Pentateuch and Prophets, Wisdom literature, Gospels and Pauline literature, and more. Open to all - no prior study required. The course will be recorded, and related course information will be available on an online platform. Enrolment fee. Book at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/margaret-beaufortbiblical-studies-course-tickets-657430250577

Diocesan Day for Catechists - Saturday 30th September, led by the Dominican Sisters, St Peter’s Parish Hall Winchester, 10 am to 4 pm – offers contact and support for all in the ministry of catechesis. Areas covered: The vocation of the catechist – refreshing understanding of our mission, and an opportunity to discover it for those who are discerning if this ministry is for them; the integration of catechesis within the parish and the home – How can catechesis be more at the heart of parish faith and life? How can we reach parents and help them to find a spiritual home in the parish?; the formation of catechists; the preparation of a catechetical session – essential principles, practical advice and tips. Please register via this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/diocesan-day-forcatechists-registration-598927286637 - a packed lunch is needed.

Divine Mercy Apostolate Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Knock, Co Mayo – 9th -14th November, led by the Marian Fathers. Package includes: Return flights by Aer Lingus from Heathrow Airport, half board, 5 nights, accommodation in ensuite twin rooms, hand-luggage (10 kgs), all transfers and Airport Development fee. Includes daily Mass and Hour of Mercy and retreats at Glendalough and Kylemore Abbey. Cost £800. All Welcome. Please call Millie on 07957594646 for more information

Update on deletion of YouTube recordings: Following diocesan guidance, the YouTube recordings of the 8.30 Mass filmed from Jan 2023-Mar 2023 have been deleted. Recordings between 1st Apr-10th June will be deleted by 1 st Oct 2023. Thereafter, recordings will be deleted after 3 months. Thank you for your understanding

Libya – Disaster Relief: CAFOD have a ‘donations tab’ for Libya donations. Go to https://cafod.org.uk

10th September

Tuesday 12th September: Parents’ Meeting 7pm, St Joseph’s Parish Hall. All parents of children enrolling in this year’s First Holy Communion Preparation Programme are asked to attend this short meeting to be briefed on the forthcoming programme.

Thursday 14th September: 10.00am A Eucharistic Service will be celebrated in place of Mass today. 7.30pm The RCIA Group for adult formation and reception meets at St Francis de Sales’ Parish Hall, Wash Common.

Friday 15th September - West Berks Youth Group: 6- 8pm St Francis de Sales Parish Hall, Wash Common. Pizza and mocktails! Open to all aged 8 - 16 years old. Please join us. Further days for the diary: 20th October (at The Waterside Centre); 17th Nov; 15th Dec. Any questions please email ellenmclinch@gmail.com

Saturday 16th September: 10.00am-12 noon First Children’s Preparation Session of the new First Holy Communion Programme, in St Joseph’s Parish Hall.

Sunday 17th September: Second Collection this Sunday for Home Mission

Pilgrimage to Medjugorje 18-25th September 2023: led by Father Zbiginiew (St Francis de Sales). Two places have become available at short notice - cost £670 for half board accommodation, flights and transfers. The group is staying with the visionary Mirijana. For more details please contact Fr Zbiginiew via email - zbudyn@gmail.com or Sue Smith - Susan.smith313@ntlworld.com

300 Club Lottery 2023/2024: Thank you to everyone who has bought tickets for the coming year’s lottery. All of the tickets have now been sold. Members’ tickets can be collected after both Masses today or will be posted out shortly.

27th august 2023

Pakistan Appeal – Persecution of Christians. ACN (Aid to the Church in Need) have launched an urgent appeal on behalf of hundreds of Christian families who lost everything in the recent worst act of persecution against Christians Pakistan has ever witnessed. A mob of hundreds attacked and torched nearly 25 churches and hundreds of homes, as well as desecrating Christian graves, Bibles, statues and crosses. Terrified families spent that night in the fields, and when they returned, found their homes reduced to rubble. Everything was destroyed or stolen. They now have no food, beds, furniture, cooking equipment, or basic necessities. To donate, go to www.acnuk.org

CAFOD’s Work: Saturday 9th September at St Bede’s Church Hall, Popley Way, Basingstoke RG24 9DX from 10:30 am to 12:30pm. CAFOD Portsmouth is hosting a meeting so that volunteers and supporters can find out more about their work. At this meeting Philippe Mougin, CAFOD’s Emergency Response Leader, will talk about work in Pakistan after last year’s floods. Please book places to give an idea of numbers by emailing Jo Lewry at jlewry@cafod.org.uk

West Berks Youth Group: starts back on Friday 15th September - for pizza and mocktails! Open to all aged 8 - 16 years old. St Francis de Sales Parish Hall 6-8pm. Please join us. Further days for the diary: 20th October (at The Waterside Centre); 17th Nov; 15th Dec. Any questions please email ellenmclinch@gmail.com

Face to Face Safeguarding Training - 30th September: Updated safeguarding training, content tailored to your roles in ministry, in our parish hall. Compliance must be completed every 2 years by all those at St. Joseph’s requiring a current DBS check.
The Child Protection Module is from 10 to 12.30; Working with Adults at Risk (vulnerable adults) is from 1.30 to 3.30. Thanks to those who have already registered. I now invite others who need to attend. Email: safeguarding@stjosephsnewbury.org.uk. Those unable to attend will be assisted to complete the training online as soon as possible. Others who do not need to do this training, but are interested in doing so, are more than welcome. Mary Barnard. Parish Safeguarding Minister

Online seminar – Engaging the Disengaged: The Diocese in partnership with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales presents an online seminar on Tuesday 21st November exploring strategies for all Catholics to fulfil their mission to bring people closer to Christ by bestselling author Sherry Weddell. Tickets are £10 per person from: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/engaging-thedisengaged-how-to-accompanynon-religious-personstickets-646139539757

St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth, West window. Due to dangerous deterioration in the leadwork specialist contractors have removed all glass for restoration which will cost in excess of £100,000. Local parishioners and the wider Diocese are encouraged to help fundraise and donate to help with the costs. You can text WINDOW to 70560 to donate £10 to the appeal.

Faithful Journeying: There is a mission to rebuild a culture of walking pilgrimage that has been lost in England and Wales, not least because pilgrimage was banned by Act of Parliament in 1538 by Thomas Cromwell. Shrines were lost, as were Abbey churches and religious houses, together with their religious infrastructure. The Pilgrim Ways is a digital resource providing walking routes to key pilgrimage sites in each Catholic diocese: www.pilgrimways.org.uk

12th August

TEACHING POINT - August is traditionally dedicated to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The physical heart of Mary is venerated (and not adored as the Sacred Heart of Jesus is) because it is the seat of her love, virtue, and inner life. This devotion received new emphasis from the visions given to Lucy Dos Santos, oldest of the Fatima visionaries, in 1925 and 1926. Our Lady asked for the practice of the Five First Saturdays to expiate the blasphemies and ingratitude of humanity. This parallels the devotion of the Nine First Fridays in honour of the Sacred Heart. On 31st October 1942, Pope Pius XII made a Solemn Act of Consecration of the Church and the world to the Immaculate Heart.

EUROPE’S CO-PATRONS - Of Europe’s six patron saints, one was added by Pope St Paul VI (Saint Benedict), and the other five co-patrons were added by Pope St John Paul II (Saint Bridget of Sweden, Saint Catherine of Siena, Saint Teresa Benedicta (Edith Stein) and Saints Cyril & Methodius). These six lives tell of the human response to God’s call, and each made a significant impact on the Church. A free app entitled ‘Online with Saints’ offers a virtual encounter with hundreds of saints and may be found at: www.onlinewithsaints.com

Our Journey in Faith – RCIA 2023/24. Course for the West Berks Pastoral area begins Thursday 7th Sept at 7.30pm at St. Francis de Sales. Meetings fortnightly from the 14th September - for adults exploring the belief of the Catholic Church. Topics on Scripture, faith, Sacramental encounter, the Church’s teachings. For some the programme is a space to simply learn more about the Church, its teachings, and the Sacraments; for others it serves as preparation to be received into the Catholic Church; and for some Catholics, a means of completing their sacramental journey. Catholics, and those from other denominations or faiths, are welcome. For more information, contact the Parish Office washcommon@portsmouthdiocese.org,uk. Or Francis at fjcon@btinternet.com

Divine Mercy Retreat: Saturday 19th August, 1.30pm4.30pm -The Divine Mercy Apostolate, London is holding a retreat at St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth, PO1 3HG which will include teachings on the Message of Divine Mercy, Holy Mass, Hour of Mercy with Stations of the Cross, Adoration and Benediction and Veneration of the Image of Merciful Jesus. Call Millie on 07957594646 for more information.

Update about deleting YouTube recordings. In keeping with diocesan guidance, the YouTube recordings of the 8.30 Mass filmed before, and including, 2022 have now been deleted. We are now moving towards deleting recordings filmed from January 2023 to March 2023 inclusive. They will be deleted no later than Sunday, 3rd September 2023. After that date, and as the year progresses, we will let you know which recordings are to be deleted and when. Thank you for your understanding.

06th August

Scriptural Proclamation: The Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments has confirmed the approval by the Bishops' Conference of England and Wales for the new Lectionary. The Lectionary, which includes the scripture readings for Mass and the sacraments, will come into use in Catholic parishes in England and Wales from Advent 2024.

The Illegal Immigration Bill will now become law. It limits access to many who seek to claim asylum as they escape war or persecution. CAFOD and the Bishops’ Conference of England & Wales invites you to consider signing an open letter to the Prime Minister available at the link: https://action.cafod.org.uk/page/132403/petition/1

Diocesan Marriage and Family Life Team: invite you to: Married Couples' Workshop, Saturday 30th September 9.30am - 4pm, St John's Cathedral Hall Register by 30th August at marriagefamilylife@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk Cost: £20 couple. Donations are welcome. Loving for Life Retreat (Make time and space for your marriage) Friday 27th - Sunday 29th October Milner Room, St Peter's Winchester. Register by 30th September at marriagefamilylife@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk Cost: £160 a couple. Donations are welcome.

Our Journey in Faith – RCIA 2023/24. Course for the West Berks Pastoral area begins Thursday 7th Sept at 7.30pm at St. Francis de Sales. Meetings fortnightly from the 14th September - for adults exploring the belief of the Catholic Church. Topics on Scripture, faith, Sacramental encounter, the Church’s teachings. For some the programme is a space to simply learn more about the Church, its teachings, and the Sacraments; for others it serves as preparation to be received into the Catholic Church; and for some Catholics, a means of completing their sacramental journey. Catholics, and those from other denominations or faiths, are welcome. For more information, contact the Parish Office washcommon@portsmouthdiocese.org,uk. Or Francis at fjcon@btinternet.com

30th July

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: The Catechist team at St Joseph’s is looking for new members to assist with the First Holy Communion Preparation Programme for the coming year. If you would like to find out more about what is involved, please speak to Fr Michael or email the parish office.

300 Club Lottery 2023/2024: The first draw of the 2023/2024 Lottery will take place in September 2023. Over the years the Lottery has made a significant contribution towards the never-ending task of keeping our Church buildings in a condition that befits its place in the spiritual life of our parish. The price of a ticket is £15, and there is a chance of winning a prize of £100, £50 or £25 each month. Tickets can be purchased by completing an application form (available from the back of church next week) before returning it, together with a cheque, to the parish office in the presbytery.

JOB OPPORTUNITY: Christians Against Poverty, Newbury Debt Centre Manager - 24 hours p/week We are looking for: a committed Christian, willing to share their faith with others; a compassionate Christian, with a heart to serve the poor; an able manager, with experience of working with and leading volunteers. Full job advert and all details: st-nics.org/vacancies.

JOB VACANCIES IN THE PORTSMOUTH DIOCESE: There are vacancies for an IT Technician based in Portsmouth (closing date 31st July); a Safeguarding and DBS administrator based in Portsmouth (closing date 31st July); a Cleaner based in Yateley (closing date 31st July) and a Chaplain for St Joseph’s College in Reading (closing date 1st September). Full details of current vacancies can be found at www.portsmouthdiocese.org.uk/aboutus/other/jobs

23rd July

Find out about CAFOD’S WORK: CAFOD Portsmouth is hosting two meetings in September so that volunteers and supporters can find out more about our work. The first meeting is on Saturday 9th September at St Bede’s Church hall, Popley Way, Basingstoke RG24 9DX from 10:30 am to 12:30pm where Philippe Mougin CAFOD’s Emergency Response Leader will talk about our work in Pakistan after last year’s floods. The second meeting is on Saturday 16th September at St Michael & All Angels’ Church hall, Dunsbury Way, Leigh Park PO9 5BD from 10:30am to 1:30pm (lunch is provided) where Sara Moreno from CAFOD’s Partner SIEMBRA from Colombia will speak about her work with human and environmental rights defenders. Everyone is welcome but please book so that we have an idea of numbers by emailing Jo Lewry at portsmouth@cafod.org.uk

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: The Catechist team at St Joseph’s is looking for new members to assist with the First Holy Communion Preparation Programme for the coming year. If you would like to find out more about what is involved, please speak to Fr Michael or email the parish office.

300 Club Lottery 2023/2024: The first draw of the 2023/2024 Lottery will take place in September 2023. Over the years the Lottery has made a significant contribution towards the never-ending task of keeping our Church buildings in a condition that befits its place in the spiritual life of our parish. The price of a ticket is £15, and there is a chance of winning a prize of £100, £50 or £25 each month. Tickets can be purchased by completing an application form (available from the back of church next week) before returning it, together with a cheque, to the parish office in the presbytery.

9th July

Sunday 16th July: 11.00am Mass – Children’s Liturgy will take place in the hall for all those of primary age.

GIFT AID FORMS: Following the Diocese becoming a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) with a new Charity number, the Diocese require us to obtain revised Gift Aid Forms for anyone still contributing through Planned Giving Envelopes or Standing Orders who signed their Gift Aid Form prior to 2023. This does not include Contactless card payments. Please collect a new form from Phil Hobbs or Fr Michael after Mass and complete one to avoid any issues in the event of an audit of our current completed forms. Completed forms can be returned to Phil Hobbs via the parish office. Phil can also be contacted by email phil.hobbs87@btinternet.com

Saturday 22nd July CHILDREN’S LITURGY TRAINING: 9am – 3pm at St Peter and the Winchester Martyrs parish, Winchester. Sr Lucy OP writes: Join us for a day of free training in planning and delivering Children’s Liturgy ministry, covering both the principles and practice of breaking open the Word of God with children. You can register via this website www.lightoftruth.uk. The day begins with Mass and please bring a packed lunch.

Find out about CAFOD’S WORK: CAFOD Portsmouth is hosting two meetings in September so that volunteers and supporters can find out more about our work: Saturday 9th September at St Bedes Church Hall, RG24 9DX (10:30am - 12:30pm) and Saturday 16th September at St Michael & All Angels Church Hall, PO9 5BD from 10:30am to 1:30pm (lunch is provided). Details of the speakers to follow. Everyone is welcome but please book by emailing Jo Lewry at portsmouth@cafod.org.uk.

Update on deletion of 2022 YouTube recordings: As previously indicated, diocesan guidance limits the time we are permitted to keep recordings of the 8.30 Mass. Recordings from 2022 will be deleted no later than Sunday, 23rd July 2023. If personally wishing to download a particular recording, please do so now. Notice of further deletions will be given in the future. Thank you for your understanding.

Volunteers needed: The Catechist team is looking for new members to assist with the First Holy Communion Preparation Programme for the coming year. If you would like to find out more about what is involved, please speak to Fr Michael or email the parish office.

25th June

Wednesday 28th June: 11.30am – Requiem Mass for Philip Fitzgerald RIP. N.B. There is no 10.00am Mass today.

Thursday 29th June: Ss PETER & PAUL, (Holy Day of Obligation) Masses at 10.00am and 7.00pm.

Friday 30th June: 11.00am – Requiem Mass for Giulia Columbro RIP. N.B. There is no 10.00am Mass today.

Friday 30th June: ‘BINGO NIGHT’ for charity, 7pm in St Joseph’s Hall. In aid of medical research at the University of Edinburgh into the disabling neurological condition, SYNGAP1, suffered by Liliana Ramalingam, a little girl in our parish. Adults - £18; children 5-15 - £12; under 5 free; family (2 adults + 2 children) - £50 (£10 off). Tickets include Food, soft drinks, 1 x Raffle ticket and 1 x Bingo Ticket! Please scan QR code on posters in church to register attendance or go to https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeUhMg6yr 2HDgSkuT0GQ_9FQEFSZBy8jZYZr8TPQHWSxiEz4A/viewform If unable to come, donations can be made at www.Justgiving.com/fundraising/ram-linz

27th June-1 st July: ‘The Life of Christ’, 10.00am-3.30pm, outdoor drama, 3 acts, lunchtime break, in the grounds of the Wintershall Estate, Bramley, Surrey. Book at www.wintershall.org.uk or Tel: 01483 892167.

18th June

SAVE THE DATE - SATURDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER: We have secured a training date with the diocesan safeguarding office for safeguarding training modules, both child protection and vulnerable adults, to be delivered face to face in our hall on the above date. From experience, those required to undertake training every two years (anyone whose role requires a DBS), prefer to attend locally with other parishioners and those from neighbouring parishes. Anyone else interested, please contact Mary Barnard on safeguarding@stjosephsnewbury.org.uk. Please put the date in your diary now; more details will be available nearer the time. SAVE THE DATE - SATURDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER: We have secured a training date with the diocesan safeguarding office for safeguarding training modules, both child protection and vulnerable adults, to be delivered face to face in our hall on the above date. From experience, those required to undertake training every two years (anyone whose role requires a DBS), prefer to attend locally with other parishioners and those from neighbouring parishes. Anyone else interested, please contact Mary Barnard on safeguarding@stjosephsnewbury.org.uk. Please put the date in your diary now; more details will be available nearer the time.

Update on the conflict in Sudan from CAFOD: Violent conflict continues in Sudan and thousands are running out of food, water and medicine. Working as part of the Caritas network, your previous donations to CAFOD are enabling our teams to provide practical help to families who have escaped to neighbouring countries, including South Sudan. Please join Pope Francis in praying for peace in Sudan. See more on CAFOD website: https://cafod.org.uk/news/emergencies-news/sudanconflict

Sunday 9th July - Musical Garden Party at St Francis de Sales, 12.30-3.30pm. Musical entertainment; games; tombola; bar. PLEASE BRING A PICNIC (no BBQ this year). Ticket price includes a pudding. £5 ticket (under-11s free). All proceeds to parish charities - Aid to the Church in Need, La Asunción Orphanage, InterCare, West Berks Foodbank. Email stfrancisjpgroup@gmail.com for tickets and more info. See you there!

11th June

Sunday 18th June: 11th Sunday Ordinary Time (A) & FATHERS’ DAY, 11.00am Mass – Conor Dyson will be baptised during this Mass. The Music Group will assist in the celebration of Mass. Also there will be a 2 nd Collection for the ‘Day for Life’ charity in support of the Church’s teaching that life is to be nurtured from conception to natural death. The Day for Life is celebrated throughout the UK today.

Sunday 9th July - Musical Garden Party at St Francis de Sales, 12.30-3.30pm. Musical entertainment; games; tombola; bar. PLEASE BRING A PICNIC (no BBQ this year). Ticket price includes a pudding. £5 ticket (under11s free). All proceeds to parish charities - Aid to the Church in Need, La Asunción Orphanage, InterCare, West Berks Foodbank. Email stfrancisjpgroup@gmail.com for tickets and more info. See you there!

Thank you for your support! Our parish ‘Closer to Christ Campaign’ has now reached a pledge total of £208,898, well surpassing our goal of £85,000. My heartfelt thanks to each and every one. While we were guaranteed to receive one third of the initial £85,000 raised, the parish will receive 50% of everything raised over this sum and so we stand to benefit hugely from the campaign. Bishop Philip has sent his written congratulations and thanks to parishioners for their wonderful response. Thank you again for your astonishing and generous support.

4th june

OUR YOUTH: Calling All Parents! The West Berks Youth Group Needs you! Youth of all ages are the future of our parish, but they're also present members of our church. A recent meeting considered the challenges facing the Youth Group. Simply, more helpers are needed to make the sessions happen. There are great ideas to better engage Youth members; day trips, BBQs, parties, sessions at the Waterside Centre in Newbury, visits to St Cassian’s, supporting mission work in the UK and abroad, fundraising, etc... Team volunteers are needed to organise a trip, help arrange food and drinks for a session, coordinate DBS checks or risk assessments for sessions and trips, help publicise events, source materials or plan some games... Helpers can make these activities happen for our children, have fun themselves, and grow our Parish. A core group of at least 10 volunteers is needed to share the organisation, and a larger group of helpers to make the sessions happen.

RCIA 2023/24 - Our Journey in Faith: Our Pastoral Area starts its next RCIA course in September for adults wishing to explore the Christian Faith as believed and practised in the Catholic Church. Meetings will reflect on Scripture; share questions about faith; explore how the Sacraments help us encounter Christ in our lives. Through the programme learn more about the Church, its teachings and Sacraments; prepare for reception into the Catholic Church; or complete the sacramental journey to Confirmation. Catholics and those from other denominations or faiths will be equally welcome. For more information, please contact Fr Michael; the Wash Common & Hungerford Parish Office at washcommon@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk or Francis Connolly at fjcon@btinternet.com.

Sunday 9 July: Musical Garden Party at St Francis de Sales, Wash Common, Newbury, 12.30-3.30pm. A lovely afternoon of entertainment guaranteed. Full details coming soon! Contact stfrancisjpgroup@gmail.com if you would like to perform, or help with organising.

Shoemakers Christian Bookshop and Café, Newbury: The shop will close shortly (and hopefully re-locate), but meanwhile is creating a prayer space in the existing shop in the final week of trading (13th -17th June, 10.00am to 4pm) to encourage prayer for the future of the venture. To take part, contact the shop on 01635 37836, to ensure those praying are spread throughout the week.

Religious Art: St Francis of Assisi is the inspiration for the latest exhibition at the National Gallery in London. Canonised in 1228, two years after his death in 1226, there are more depictions of Francis than any other nonBiblical saint. Admission to the exhibition is free, with other details available via: www.nationalgallery.org.uk/

28th May

Wednesday 31st May: 7.00pm - BIBLE STUDY GROUP with Fr Peter Codd at Our Lady of Lourdes, Hungerford, tonight.

Thursday 1st June: 7.30pm – Parish Finance Committee Meeting in the hall. Friday 2nd June: 10.30am – The Rosary recited after Mass (first Friday of the month).

Saturday 3rd June: 11.00am – Confirmation Mass at Portsmouth Cathedral. Fr Michael will be attending the Celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation for the candidates of the West Berks Pastoral Area – including our own 6 candidates from St Joseph’s. Congratulations! All are welcome to attend.

St Joseph’s Church: Listed Grade II. We have been informed that our church has been added to the List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest. The building is now listed at Grade II by the Ministry of Culture, Media, and Sport and ‘Historic England’. Listing marks a building’s significance and celebrates its special architectural and historic interest. It brings specific protection so that its special interest can be properly considered in managing its future.

Sunday 9 July: Musical Garden Party at St Francis de Sales, Wash Common, Newbury, 12.30-3.30pm. A lovely afternoon of entertainment guaranteed. Full details coming soon! Contact stfrancisjpgroup@gmail.com if you would like to perform, or help with organising.

Wanting to volunteer? A volunteer is needed to act as the parish representative for Caritas Portsmouth at St Joseph’s. Caritas supports parishes and schools to become the ‘church beyond walls’ to help meet the needs of local communities. Their volunteer team help make this happen, by running and supporting specific projects, promoting their work within the community and fundraising so new projects can get off the ground. Visit their website for details: https://caritas.org.uk/act/. Please speak to Fr Michael if you would like to volunteer or find out more about this role.

21st May

Closer to Christ Campaign: Thank you again for the great generosity of those who have pledged and donated. If you completed a small card at Mass still expressing a wish to pledge, you will have received a pledge form for completion by post or email this week. Please return the form either to the parish office, to Fr Michael, or directly through the post. If not wishing to pledge immediately, you are asked to indicate a start date and method of payment that is convenient to you. Every pledge is valued – regardless of its size or commencement. Having exceeded our target, the parish will receive 50% of everything raised. It is hoped to share a final ‘Pledge Total’ in a few weeks’ time.

Wednesday 24 th May: 7.00pm - BIBLE STUDY GROUP with Fr Peter Codd at Our Lady of Lourdes, Hungerford, tonight

Friday 26th May: 6.00pm – 8.00 pm Youth Group – St Joseph’s young people are welcome to attend the youth group at St Francis de Sales’, Wash Common. Open for those who have made their First Holy Communion up to age 18.
Please email ellenmclinch@gmail.com for more information

Sunday 28th May: 11.00am Mass – Children’s Liturgy will take place in the hall for all those of primary age. Also, the Music Group will assist in the celebration of Mass next Sunday.

NEWBURY STREET PASTORS: Colin and Deborah were very grateful for the kind reception they received last Sunday, including a generous donation towards their funds. They would welcome hearing from anyone interested in learning more about Street Pastors and Prayer Pastors in Newbury, and offer an invitation to join them one Saturday night as an observer. Please email newbury@streetpastors.org.uk, or call Colin (Coordinator) on 07822 831962.

St Joseph’s Church: Listed Grade II. We have been informed that our church has been added to the List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest. The building is now listed at Grade II by the Ministry of Culture, Media, and Sport and ‘Historic England’. Listing marks a building’s significance and celebrates its special architectural and historic interest. It brings specific protection so that its special interest can be properly considered in managing its future.

Magisterium Communication: The Vatican has announced new strategies to safeguard against abuse. They represent the work carried out by members of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors during its Plenary Assembly: www.indcatholicnews.com/news/47120

RCIA 2023/24 - Our Journey in Faith: Our Pastoral Area starts its next RCIA course in September for adults wishing to explore the Christian Faith as believed and practised in the Catholic Church. Meetings will reflect on Scripture; share questions about faith; explore how the Sacraments help us encounter Christ in our lives. Through the programme learn more about the Church, its teachings and Sacraments; prepare for reception into the Catholic Church; or complete the sacramental journey to Confirmation. Catholics and those from other denominations or faiths will be equally welcome. For more information, please contact Fr Michael; the Wash Common & Hungerford Parish Office at washcommon@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk or Francis Connolly at fjcon@btinternet.com.

DIOCESAN SAFEGUARDING TRAINING: An opportunity for workers or volunteers across the Diocese in a relevant role to receive up-to-date, face-to-face safeguarding training tailored to their role in ministry - available on Saturday 3rd June in Southampton and Saturday 17th June in Maidenhead. The training is open to all those in recruitment for, or currently working in,roles with children and/or adults at risk. National Safeguarding Standards require safeguarding training must be completed every 2 years. A certificate is issued on completion of training. For further details/bookings email: safeguarding@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk.

14th May 2023

THANK YOU!! Thanks to all those who helped make our parish Coronation Garden Party so very enjoyable – Vinnie for the awnings; Tracey for the fantastic cake; Jeremy for the technical equipment and set-up, Mark and Tim for the music, and to the weather for laying on the sunshine! All hugely appreciated.

Tuesday 16th May: 7.30pm - ‘Sycamore Course’ in the Parish Hall this evening for all those adults who are interested in exploring their Catholic faith. The topic tonight, The Meaning of Love. More information on the course can be found at: www.sycamore.fm.

Wednesday 17th May: 2pm – Parish Film Matinee in the Parish Hall – Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Rebecca’. All welcome

Wednesday 17th May - 7.00pm - BIBLE STUDY GROUP with Fr Peter Codd at Our Lady of Lourdes, Hungerford, tonight.

Thursday 18th May: SOLEMNITY OF THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD. (Holy Day of Obligation). Masses at 10.00am and 7pm.

Saturday 20th May: 10.00am – 12 noon Final Preparation Session for First Holy Communion Candidates in St Joseph’s Hall.

Sunday 21st May: 2nd Collection for the Catholic Communications Network

CHRISTIAN AID WEEK 14th – 20th May: This is the main annual fund raiser for Christian Aid. Please give generously. Thursday 18th May: 10.00am – 12 noon – you are invited to a coffee morning in St Nicholas church hall (in West Mills, Newbury) where you will find tea, coffee and cakes, books, toys and bric-a-brac, all sold to raise money for Christian Aid.

Family Weekend at St Cassians, Kintbury. Friday evening 2 nd June - Sunday lunch time 4 th June. Get away, time with family, and breathe! A weekend of activities for all ages, art workshops, outdoor activity, prayer & reflection, meals and socialising together. £115 per adult; £80 children 5-18; under 5 free. Details: OFFICE@CASSIANS.CO.UK or Tel 01488 658267. Closing date for applications – Friday 19th May.

FAITHFUL QUESTIONING: The Centre for Ecclesial Ethics at the Margaret Beaufort Institute is carrying out some pioneering research into why many Catholics no longer go to Mass, or feel they no longer belong in the Church. For more information and to respond to the survey go to: www.cambridge.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9Gn08 WXvvKfwJts

ENCOURAGING DIALOGUE: Colin Bloom, Independent Faith Engagement Adviser, published Does Government 'Do God' recently. This overarching review that has been in the making since before the Covid pandemic, attempts to examine how government engages with faith, people of faith and places of worship. The report may be read via the website: www.assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/upl oads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1152684/ The_Bloom_Review.pdf

DIOCESAN SAFEGUARDING TRAINING: An opportunity for anyone working or volunteering across the Diocese in a relevant role to receive up-to-date, face-to-face safeguarding training tailored to their role in ministry is available on Saturday 3rd June in Southampton and Saturday 17th June in Maidenhead. The training is open to all those in recruitment for, or currently working in, roles with children and/or adults at risk. For further details and to book your place on this course please email: safeguarding@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk.

7th May 2023

CELEBRATING WITNESS Within days of its release in Spain, a new film (‘La Sirvienta’) based on the life of the founder of the Sisters of Mary Immaculate (RMI), St Vicenta María López y Vicuña, has reached the top five in the country's ‘most popular’ movie charts. The website for ‘La Sirvienta’ is at: www.lasirvienta.com and a trailer of the film may be seen at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgi9YBnvz3o

Requirement to delete YouTube recordings from 2021 - Update. Our recording of 8.30 Mass on Sunday, and its availability started in May 2020, during Covid enabling many more to engage in worship from home. New diocesan guidance requires us to limit the retention of recordings. Understandably some may wish to download a particular recording, for personal reasons. Be aware, however, that recordings from 2021 will be deleted no later than Sunday, May 28th. As the year progresses, updates will follow on the deletion of further recordings. Thank you for your understanding

VOCATIONS – Questions about the Priesthood. Fr Mike Schmitz, an American priest, answers, and gives his own take, on some of the most asked questions about priests in short light-hearted videos. They may include a question that you have about the Priesthood…but have never had the opportunity to ask. Go to YouTube and search ‘Fr Mike Schmitz’.

Diocesan Discernment Group - Seeker Nights: Friday 5 th May, 7-9pm, Sacred Heart Church, Fareham PO16 0NF. Our monthly Seeker Night is for all those who are discerning their path in life and seeking the will of the Lord. The evening follows a very simple pattern - a meal, a time of discussion and we close with prayer and Adoration. Please get in touch for information and an invite to these evenings via: vocations@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk. Further Seeker Night evenings will take place on Friday 2nd June and Friday 7th July.

Dominican Sisters’ Courses: ‘Confirmation - Anchoring you in the Holy Spirit’: 6 sessions, after Pentecost, to (re)discover the meaning and rite of our confirmation in the light of our faith. Useful to confirmation catechists, but also to everyone who wants to know more about the Holy Spirit and his action in our life. Every Tuesday evening from 7.30 to 9.00 pm on Zoom, beginning on 30 May. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUodOiurj 0sGNLWwXbb5mBDg6CKE46JG8WY

Tuesday 9th May: 10.30am A half hour of Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament will follow 10.00am Mass today.

7.30pm - ‘Sycamore Course’ in the Parish Hall this evening for all those adults who are interested in exploring their Catholic faith.
The topic tonight, Finding True Freedom. More information on the course can be found at: www.sycamore.fm.

Wednesday 10th May: 7.00pm - BIBLE STUDY GROUP with Fr Peter Codd at Our Lady of Lourdes, Hungerford, tonight.

Saturday 13th May: 2pm The Marriage of Marek Firlit and Monika Paraniak (Nuptial Mass). Many congratulations and prayers for you both! Parishioners are welcome to attend.

Sunday 14th May: There will be a presentation by Newbury Street Pastors during both Masses today. 11.00am Mass – Children’s Liturgy will take place in the hall for all those of primary school age

30th April 2023

Tuesday 2nd May: 7.30pm - ‘Sycamore Course’ in the Parish Hall this evening for all those adults who are interested in exploring their Catholic faith. The topic tonight, The Power of Prayer. More information on the course can be found at: www.sycamore.fm.

Wednesday 3rd May: 7.00pm - BIBLE STUDY GROUP with Fr Peter Codd at Our Lady of Lourdes, Hungerford, tonight.

Thursday 4th May: 11.00am – Funeral Service for Thomas Lee RIP

Friday 5th May: 10.30am The Rosary recited after Mass (first Friday of the month).

Saturday 6th May: Mass at 9.00am for HM The King at the instruction of the Bishops’ Conference on the occasion of the Coronation. N.B. – there will be no Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament or Confessions today.

Sunday 7th May: CORONATION GARDEN PARTY after the 11.00am Mass. We will celebrate together the day after the Coronation Service in the garden beside the church with a fun and patriotic garden party. Bring your own family picnic. If you wish to share dishes, please come with a full list of the ingredients in order to safeguard others who may have food allergies. All initiatives for activities, games, and decorations are welcome!

Pope Francis gifts relics to King Charles lll. He has gifted relics of the True Cross to the King which has been incorporated into the new Cross of Wales which will lead the Coronation procession at Westminster Abbey on Saturday, 6th May. This is a processional cross presented by the King as a centenary gift to the Church in Wales. The relics, set into the silver cross, are two small wooden splinters believed to be from the cross on which Christ was crucified.

Monday 8th May: 7.30pm – 9pm Confirmation Preparation session ‘Made for Mission’ at Douai Abbey - last preparation session before our candidates receive the Sacrament of Confirmation at Portsmouth Cathedral on Saturday 3rd June.

Saturday 20th May: ‘Mission Possible’ – a Mini Retreat, 09.30am-3.30pm, St Bede’s Church, Basingstoke RG24 9DX. Mass, Adoration, guest speakers Fr Jon Bielawski and Michele Thompson. Register attendance at bit.ly/ADOREMAY2023

COMMUNICATING FAITH: A document from the Department for International Affairs of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales entitled: Love the Stranger – A Catholic Response to Migrants and Refugees has been published, and presents a Catholic response to both groups: www.cbcew.org.uk/love-the-stranger/

Closer to Christ Fund-raising Campaign: The appeal is going very well in our parish. Sincere thanks to all who have pledged and donated this past week, and earlier. If considering a contribution by pledge or single sum, it would be appreciated if you could do so within the next three weeks if possible

West Berkshire Foodbank: Food donations are vital to offer referrals a balanced three-day supply of food. Donations, please, at the back of church or to donation point locations listed on the Foodbank’s website. Donations, big or small, can be made directly to the Foodbank’s bank account: West Berks Foodbank, Sort code 77-95-05, Account No. 72784660 or via cheque payable to ‘West Berks Foodbank’ sent to: The Treasurer, West Berks Foodbank, 30 Broadmeadow End, Thatcham, RG18 4ED.

Diocesan Mission Event - "Then You Will Be My Witnesses" - Fri 12th May, 7:30-9:30pm and Saturday 13th May, 10am-4:30pm. In this Year of the Holy Spirit, Fr Mark Hogan, Episcopal Vicar for Evangelisation, invites you to a Diocesan Mission Event at St. Peter’s, Winchester, the evening of Fri 12th May and the daytime Sat 13th May. Speaker - Allegra Mutanda. Theme is “Then You Will Be My Witnesses”, linking closely with our Diocesan 10-year Mission Plan, and a reminder that the disciples awaited reception of the Holy Spirit before embarking upon their mission. Go to https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/620724673207 to book by 5th May – attendees welcome even for part of the gathering.

16th April 2023

Monday 17th April: 7.30pm – 9pm Confirmation Preparation session at Douai Abbey

Tuesday 18th April: N.B. There will be NO 10.00am Mass today as both Fr Michael and Fr Peter are away. (There is 7pm Mass at St Francis de Sales’ Wash Common today). Also, NO ‘Sycamore Course’ Meeting tonight. The course will resume on Tuesday 25th April.

Wednesday 19th April: 7.00pm - BIBLE STUDY GROUP with Fr Peter Codd at Our Lady of Lourdes, Hungerford, tonight.

Saturday 22 April: 10.00am-12 noon First Holy Communion Preparation Session for candidates in St Joseph’s Hall – this will be followed at 12 noon by a short PARENTS’ MEETING in the hall to finalise details of the actual FHC celebrations on 11th and 25th June.

Wednesday 26th April: ‘The Conversation’ with The National Office for Vocations. Thinking more about vocation? Hear stories of mission and discipleship - join the Office for 'The Conversation', where a panel of guests will discuss how they live their vocation and the work they carry out in the Church. See how they are called to follow Christ as disciples and live out their mission. Attend free on Zoom on Wednesday 26th April, the week leading up to Vocations Sunday. Ask questions of the guests and join ‘The Conversation’. TICKETS FREE BOOK NOW!! https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/theconversation-tickets-591361055837

VACANCIES: 1) Parish Administrator (15 hours a week) for parish of St Michael’s, Tadley, and St Oswald’s, Burghfield Common, £12.50 per hour. Closing date for applications – 19th April. 2) Parish Administrator (12 hours a week) for parish of Holy Family, Southampton, £12.50 per hour. Closing date for applications – 20th April. Job description and details for both at recruitment@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

PAPAL PROCLAMATION Pope Francis' Prayer Intentions for the month of April are for a non-violent culture. A video of him addressing the theme may be viewed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRNl2BrATVI.

DIARY REMINDER - Sunday 7th May: ‘CORONATION GARDEN PARTY’ in St Joseph’s Church grounds after the 11.00am Mass. The King’s Coronation is now only 3 weeks away. As a parish, we plan to celebrate together the day after the Coronation Service in the garden beside the church with a fun and patriotic garden party. Bring your own family picnic. If you wish to share dishes, please come with a full list of the ingredients in order to safeguard others who may have food allergies. All initiatives for activities, games, and decorations are welcome!

Saturday 20th May: ‘Mission Possible’ – a Mini Retreat, 09.30am-3.30pm, St Bede’s Church, Basingstoke RG24 9DX. Mass, Adoration, guest speakers Fr Jon Bielawski and Michele Thompson. Register attendance at bit.ly/ADOREMAY2023

Dominican Sisters’ Courses

: 1. Baptism - Anchoring you in New Life: 6 sessions to (re)discover the meaning and rite of baptism in the light of our faith. This course is useful for parents, catechists who offer baptism preparation, but is also open to everyone who wants to learn more about the meaning of their own baptism. Every Tuesday evening from 7.30 to 9.00 pm on Zoom, beginning on 18 April. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZErcu6urj8 uHtBnuhuYKgHuaci3eCA-_yJQ 2. Further Training for Catechists: 5 sessions to help catechists talk about God, Jesus, salvation, the human person and the Church to adults, children and young people. Every Thursday evening from 7.30 to 9.00 pm on Zoom, beginning on 20 April. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0oc-- qrjosHdboj3XE5TtV5O5Ylem1JpB3

2. Further Training for Catechists: 5 sessions to help catechists talk about God, Jesus, salvation, the human person and the Church to adults, children and young people. Every Thursday evening from 7.30 to 9.00 pm on Zoom, beginning on 20 April. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0oc-- qrjosHdboj3XE5TtV5O5Ylem1JpB3

West Berkshire Foodbank: Food donations - vital to offer referrals a balanced three-day supply of food. Their shopping list currently contains the following food items: long life fruit juice; razors or shave gel; large sized nappies 5,6,7; toilet roll and UHT long-life milk – blue or green. Donations, please, at back of church or to donation point locations listed on the Foodbank’s website.

DOUAI ABBEY PROGRAMME FEBRUARY - JUNE 2023: Full programme of events to June: www.douaiabbey.org.uk/files/2023-prog-Jan-June.pdf

9th April 2023

Tuesday 11th April: There will be NO ‘Sycamore Course’ Meeting tonight. The course will resume on Tuesday 25th April.

Wednesday 12th April: No Bible Study Group. These sessions will resume on Wednesday 19th April.

Sunday 16th April: Second Sunday of Easter, ‘DIVINE MERCY’ Sunday. West Berks Pastoral Area celebration at Our Lady of Lourdes, Hungerford : 2.45pm
Procession with the Divine Mercy Image; exposition of the Blessed Sacrament; 3pm The 3 O’Clock Prayer; followed by recitation of the Divine Mercy Chaplet and Benediction,
also with the opportunity for Confession.

Monday 17th April: 7.30pm – 9pm Confirmation Preparation session at Douai Abbey.

Saturday 22 April: Quiz Night at St Francis de Sales, Wash Common - Doors open 6.45pm, quiz starts 7.15pm. Lots of fun for all the family! Tickets include two-course home-cooked meal.
Bar available, prizes, raffle. £10 adult, £5 child (aged 5-13), £25 family (up to 3 children). For tickets, please email stfrancisjpgroup@gmail.com, or just come along.

DIARY REMINDER - Sunday 7th May: ‘CORONATION GARDEN PARTY’ in St Joseph’s Church grounds after the 11.00am Mass. The King’s Coronation is now only 4 weeks away. As a parish, we plan to celebrate together the day after the Coronation Service in the garden beside the church with a fun and patriotic garden party. All initiatives for activities, games, and decorations are welcome!

02nd april 2023

Tuesday 4th April: 11.00am THE MASS OF CHRISM at St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth. All are welcome. The Chrism Mass is the special Liturgy in Holy Week at which the Bishop blesses the three Holy Oils used in the Sacraments: the Oil of Catechumens, the Oil of the Blessing of the Sick and the Oil of Chrism. This is one of the most ancient ceremonies of the Church always celebrated in the Cathedral with the priests, deacons, religious and lay people of the diocese. During it, all the priests and deacons make a renewal of their commitment to priestly and diaconal service.

N.B. There will be NO ‘Sycamore Course’ Meeting tonight in the Parish Hall. The course will resume on Tuesday 25th April. 7.30pm: ‘Be still and know that I am God’ Sixth, and final, session of a Six Week Course of Christian Meditation at Douai Abbey 7:30pm - 9:00pm.

Wednesday 5th April: 3pm Requiem Mass for Jane ‘Maria’ Coffey RIP.

6.30pm – Short Meeting in the hall about the ‘Closer to Christ’ Fundraising campaign. Our parish is currently undertaking the campaign which aims to support our priests from formation through to retirement, and generate income for parishes. Matt Bloomer, the diocesan campaign manager, will be present to answer questions. In order not to waste mailing costs (info will also be posted soon) please ‘RSVP’ for either meeting, by email to office@stjosephsnewbury.org.uk or call the parish office on 01635 40167. I appreciate you considering the invitation and I look forward to sharing information with you soon. Fr. Michael

Holy Communion under Both Kinds - The Bishop’s Conference have decided to permit once again the practice of giving Holy Communion under both kinds i.e. also from the chalice. This will be offered from Holy Thursday evening, and is endorsed by Bishop Philip. The reintroduction of Holy Communion under both kinds is permissive, not obligatory.

Friday 7th April: GOOD FRIDAY 10.00am Stations of the Cross 3pm: The Sacred Liturgy of Good Friday. The annual collection today “For the Holy Places” is an initiative of the Pope’s “to maintain a strong bond between the faithful around the world and the Holy Places”. The Collection supports the work of the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land in preserving the Sacred Places and promoting the Christian presence in the Holy Land; and also provides support for the Dicastery’s aid to the Eastern Churches in the region, through the formation of clergy and religious, educational and cultural activities, and direct support for the Churches.

Saturday 8th April: HOLY SATURDAY 10.00am-11.00am Confessions. 11.30am - Polish Service of Blessing of Bread. All are welcome. 8pm - THE EASTER VIGIL. The most important liturgy of the Church’s entire calendar year.

From the Diocese: The Easter Collection is an opportunity for the faithful to give thanks to God for the ministry of our priests. In addition to the usual ways of giving for this collection, donations may be received via an online giving page, set up specifically for each parish. This is the link to the Easter Collection fundraising page for St Joseph’s Parish:https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/newbury-st-joseph-catholic-parish-easter-collection-2023

DOUAI ABBEY PROGRAMME FEBRUARY - JUNE 2023: Full programme of events to June: www.douaiabbey.org.uk/files/2023-prog-Jan-June.pdf

DIARY REMINDER - Sunday 7th May: ‘CORONATION GARDEN PARTY’ in St Joseph’s Church grounds after the 11.00am Mass. Celebrate with our community together the day after the Coronation Service.

11th March 2023

Monday 13th March: 7.30pm – 9pm Confirmation Preparation session at Douai Abbey.

Tuesday 14th March: 10.30am Stations of the Cross after 10am Mass.

7.30pm The ‘Sycamore Course’ in the Parish Hall this evening for all those adults who are interested in exploring their Catholic faith. The topic tonight, Who is Jesus? More information on the course can be found at: www.sycamore.fm

Also at 7.30pm ‘Be still and know that I am God’. Third of a Six Week Course of Christian Meditation until Tuesday 4th April at Douai Abbey 7:30pm - 9:00pm. Meditation, an ancient form of prayer, aims to still the mind and rest in God’s presence. This course extends to Holy Week using reflections from Richard Rohr ‘Wondrous Encounters: Scripture for Lent’. The text will be available to purchase. Sessions: led by Marjorie Dean

Wednesday 15th March: BIBLE STUDY GROUP at 7pm at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford, with Fr Peter Codd.

Friday 17th March: 11.30am Requiem Mass for John O’Donnell RIP.

Saturday 18th March: 10.00am – 12 noon - Children’s First Holy Communion Preparation Session in the Hall.

Also 11.00am -12 Noon ‘God Awakening Us’. Fr Chris Heaps, the parish of St James and St William of York and the Reading Carmelite Friars invite you to their series of Lent reflections. Journeying through the themes of the Gospel to discover a God that calls us, listens to us and desires us to be awakened this Lent. Each session runs from 11am - 12 Noon at St James Catholic Church, Forbury Road, Reading RG1 3FD (six minutes’ walk from Reading railway station). The sessions will be held on Saturday 18th March: God crying out to us; Saturday

Sunday 19th March (Mothering Sunday): 11.00am Mass – our FHC children will join us at Mass today. N.B. There will be a Second Collection at Masses today for the Clergy Assistance Fund.

Planned Giving Envelopes: Please collect your envelopes after Mass from Phil Hobbs who can also provide information to those potentially interested in starting Planned Giving or Standing Orders.

Requirement to delete YouTube Recordings: The recording of Mass, and its viewing started in May 2020, during Covid restrictions on church opening. Since churches reopened, the Sunday 8.30 Mass has been recorded and uploaded to our website to enable many to engage in worship from home. New diocesan guidance requires limiting the time we are permitted to keep recordings. Some may wish to download a particular recording for personal reasons of an intention etc. To give you time to do so, the recordings from 2020 will be deleted no later than Thursday, April 6th. After that date, and as the year progresses, we will let you know which recordings are to be deleted and when. Thank you for your understanding.

CAFOD Syria-Turkey Earthquake Appeal: CAFOD is responding with support of provision of food, water, shelter, medical assistance and winter kits for survivors. Please pray for our sisters and brothers affected by the earthquakes and the winter weather. For more details visit CAFOD’s Syria Turkey Emergency Appeal online at https://cafod.org.uk/give.

5th March 2023

MESSAGE OF THANKS: “Mike Colbert’s family would like to express a huge ‘thank you’ to all parishioners of St Joseph’s. Dad loved them as family. Your letters and messages expressed a deep bond of affection and fellowship that have sustained him for many years. The support and love shown to Dad during this sad and painful time were a source of comfort and solace for him and for us. Dad passed away peacefully at 2.02am on 27th February in the company of his family.” RIP.

Wednesday 8th March: BIBLE STUDY GROUP at 7pm at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford, with Fr Peter Codd.

Tuesday 7 th March: 7.30pm The ‘Sycamore Course’ in the Parish Hall this evening for all those adults who are interested in exploring their Catholic faith. The topic tonight, ‘A God who speaks?’. More information on the course can be found at: www.sycamore.fm

Requirement to delete YouTube Recordings: The recording of Mass, and its availability for viewing at home started in May 2020, during the Covid restrictions on church opening. Since churches reopened, the 8.30 Mass on Sunday has been recorded and made available through our website to enable many to engage in worship from home. New diocesan guidance requires us to limit the length of time we are permitted to keep recordings. Some of you may wish to download a particular recording for personal reasons of an intention etc. To give you time to do so, the recordings from 2020 will be deleted no later than Thursday, April 6th . After that date, and as the year progresses, we will let you know which recordings are to be deleted and when. Thank you for your understanding.

26th February 2023

Tuesday 28th February: 7.30pm. The ‘Sycamore Course’ in the Parish Hall this evening for all those adults who are interested in exploring their Catholic faith. The topic tonight, ‘The Existence of God’. More information on the course can be found at: www.sycamore.fm

Also, 7.30pm: ‘Be still and know that I am God’ First of a Six Week Course of Christian Meditation until Tuesday 4th April at Douai Abbey 7:30pm - 9:00pm Meditation is an ancient form of prayer. Its aim is to bring the distracted mind to silence and stillness and rest in the presence of God. Even in our modern lives this is possible. This introductory six-week journey will go up to Holy Week using a set of reflections from Richard Rohr ‘Wondrous Encounters’: Scripture for Lent. The text will be available to purchase. Sessions: led by Marjorie Dean.

Wednesday 1st March: BIBLE STUDY GROUP at 7pm at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford, with Fr Peter Codd.

Friday 3rd March: CAFOD Family Fast Day and Lent Appeal - This Lent, your donations to CAFOD’s Family Fast Day Appeal will help families fighting the climate crisis and ensure that our Church network can quickly respond to emergencies, like the recent earthquake in Syria and Turkey. Give today using the envelope or at cafod.org.uk/give and please join us in praying for CAFOD’s development and emergency response work all over the world.

CAFOD’s Big Lent Walk: The West Berkshire Confirmation Group will be participating in CAFOD’s Big Lent Walk as part of their confirmation programme. They are aiming to all walk 5km a day every day in Lent to raise money for those in other parts of the world who are less well off than us. Please support the young people in our Pastoral Area who are joining in this venture. You can donate on this webpage, which we will keep updated with our progress: https://cafod.enthuse.com/pf/west-berks-confirmation-group

ROOM RENTAL: A member of the parish is seeking to rent a single room long-term in the Newbury area. Ideally, this would be accommodation with shared facilities, alongside a few other tenants. She requires a location with access to public transport. If anyone can be of assistance, or offer information to assist, please speak with Fr Michael.

Invitation from Bishop Philip: During Lent, I invite you to join me for three online Lent Reflections. I will broadcast the Lent Reflections as a webinar on Thursdays 2nd March, 9th March and 16th March at 7.30 pm, each lasting about 40 minutes. In each Reflection, I will share some personal thoughts on one of the three theological virtues, in order (1) Faith, (2) Hope and then (3) Charity. Each Reflection will begin with a short period of prayer. The Lenten Reflections are open to all and everyone can register. Go to: https://mailchi.mp/portsmouthdiocese/from-the-bishop-three-lent-reflections and follow link to register.

Sunday 5th March 2023: St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School and Nursery School - From the Headteacher Mrs Bosher – some of our Primary School and Nursery children, and staff, will be assisting in the celebration of the 11am Sunday Mass. The children are busy preparing, and we are very excited to worship with you all that day.

Vacancy for a part time Parish Administrator at St Michaels Parish, Tadley incorporating St Oswald’s Church, Burghfield Common. A vacancy has arisen for a Parish Administrator to be accountable for the smooth organisation of the parish and to provide confidential administrative and secretarial support for the Parish Priest and the parish, providing a sympathetic focal point for enquiries and efficient administrative support. Hours of work: Part time post 15 hours per week, days and times to be agreed for a salary of £12.50 per hour. Closing date for applications: Friday 10th March 2023

Interview date: TBC. Application forms and Job Description are available from recruitment@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

West Berks Foodbank A Lent programme of donations is proposed and details of this are in a letter at the church entries and on the noticeboards. Furthermore, they desperately need more volunteers for a range of roles so if you can spare a little time, these are also detailed in the letter.

19th February 2023

Wednesday 22nd February: ASH WEDNESDAY Masses, with distribution of Ashes, at 10.00am and 7.30pm. St Joseph’s School will join us for our 10.00am Mass today.

N.B. Wednesday 22nd February: There will be NO BIBLE STUDY GROUP at 7pm at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford, this week as it is Ash Wednesday.

Tuesday 21st February: 7.30pm The ‘Sycamore Course’ commences in the Parish Hall this evening for all those adults who are interested in attending to look at their Catholic faith. The first topic tonight, ‘What is Happiness?’ More information on the course can be found at: www.sycamore.fm

DAY OF REFLECTION AT DOUAI ABBEY A Reflection Day, Has no one condemned you? will be on Saturday 25th February. In John 8 Jesus gives an accused woman new hope, offering us that same hope. A gentle Lenten day to reflect on this & other rescue stories, with music & quiet to explore how we can be transformed. The day will be led by Barbara Priest who is an Anglican lay minister near Salisbury, an Oblate of Douai Abbey. The day runs 10.30am to 4pm. (arrivals & coffee from 10am). Contribution £25 made on the day please (lunch, coffee & tea included) or £15 if you bring your own lunch. You can book via the Abbey website: www.douaiabbey.org.uk/bookings.php or by email to: guestmaster@douaiabbey.org.uk. Full programme of events to June: www.douaiabbey.org.uk/files/2023-prog-Jan-June.pdf

CAFOD Syria-Turkey Earthquake Appeal: CAFOD is responding with support of provision of food, water, shelter, medical assistance and winter kits for survivors. Please pray for our sisters and brothers affected by the earthquakes and the winter weather. For more details visit CAFOD’s Syria Turkey Emergency Appeal online at https://cafod.org.uk/give.

SOULFUL OPPORTUNITY Catholic People’s Week is a not-for-profit volunteer-led organisation that runs holidays that 'make a difference'. The organisation's mission, and therefore the mission of each event, is to revitalise the heart, mind and spirit of Catholic people today. See: www.catholicpeoplesweeks.org/events/cpw-programme-2023

12th February 2023

11am Mass: Children’s Liturgy will take place in the hall today for all those of primary school age. Also, next Sunday 19th Feb; 5th Mar; 26th Mar; 2nd Apr.

Wednesday 15th February: BIBLE STUDY GROUP 7pm at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford, with Fr Peter Codd. All welcome.

‘THE SYCAMORE COURSE’ will begin at St Joseph’s for those interested on Tuesday 21st February at 7.30pm in the Parish Hall. The course is intended to assist adult Catholics to grow and develop their faith with greater knowledge and depth. You can visit the Sycamore website for more advance information on the course: www.sycamore.fm

Sunday 5th March 2023: St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School and Nursery School - From the Headteacher Mrs Bosher - the children and staff of the Primary School and Nursery will be assisting in the celebration of the 11am Sunday Mass. The children are busy preparing, and we are very excited to worship with you all that day.

CAFOD Syria-Turkey Earthquake Appeal: CAFOD is responding with support of provision of food, water, shelter, medical assistance and winter kits for survivors. Please pray for our sisters and brothers affected by the earthquakes and the winter weather. Your support for CAFOD throughout the year allows our Catholic agency to act quickly when disasters strike. For more details visit CAFOD’s Syria Turkey Emergency Appeal online at https://cafod.org.uk/give

Mike Colbert and the SVP: The Reading District President of the SVP, Nino Trapani, wishes to share the news with us that an SVP Medal and Certificate acknowledging exemplary service has been awarded to Mike:

“Please join me in acknowledging the faith, humility, humanity and achievements of one of your parishioners, Michael Colbert. Michael has been an SVP member for more than 20 years, many as an outstanding leader. His fundraising skills are legendary, and I thank the parishioners of St Joseph’s and St Francis de Sales for their very generous support of the local SVP group. Fundraising is one thing, finding those in need is another. It is a core principle of our work to seek out those in need and none do it better than Michael and his team. His superb skills have resulted in different members becoming ‘specialists’ in specific charitable activities. His conference ‘piece de resistance’ is undoubtedly the wonderful work it does in the area of domestic abuse.

Michael is inspirational, and his faith an example to us all. In discussing succession planning he would humbly state that the Holy Spirit will provide when the time comes – and you know that is exactly what he believes. On one occasion he privately, and gently, chided me for not leaving enough time for prayers which he correctly pointed out were an essential part of all SVP meetings. In a recent conversation, he expressed how much he loves the SVP and how important it has been in his life.

I close every conversation with Michael knowing that I have spoken to a very special person who is the epitome of ‘turning concern into action’ which is the motto of the SVP. Quite simply, the Society is blessed with having such a person in its ranks and I hope that you will join me in congratulating him on the formal recognition of his exemplary service with the SVP.”

West Berks Foodbank We have received a letter from WBFB expressing their appreciation for the magnificent support that they received over the Christmas period - food equivalent to almost 5 elephants! Copies of their letter are at the church entries. Demand, however, is increasing, and for longer periods - a Lent programme of donations is proposed and details of this are in the letter and on the noticeboards. Furthermore, they desperately need more volunteers for a range of roles so if you can spare a little time, these are also detailed in the letter.

5th February 2023

IT EXPERIENCE, IDEAS. OR EXPERTISE? If you feel you can contribute your knowledge to help the parish update its digital profile and website, or simply have ideas about new initiatives, please speak to Father Michael! - Email Fr. Michael

FEBRUARY 2023 – ‘SYCAMORE’ is coming to St Joseph’s! In response to an obvious desire on the part of adult Catholics to grow and develop their Catholic faith with greater knowledge and depth. The parish will be running a weekly evening session in St Joseph’s Hall following the Sycamore Course devised by Fr Stephen Wang in the Archdiocese of Westminster. You can visit the Sycamore website: www.sycamore.fm If you are potentially interested in taking part in the course, please give your name and a contact number or email to those recording interest after Mass today.

A Gap Year Opportunity: Are you 18-30, or do you know someone who is? Do you want to develop a wide range of skills including leadership while learning about global justice and inspiring others to use their faith in action? CAFOD, the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development, believes in equipping and inspiring young adults to contribute to a more just and peaceful world. ‘Step into the Gap’ is a fully funded year of volunteering, with food, accommodation, stipend and training within a UK placement plus a Rome and Assisi pilgrimage. Visit the CAFOD website for more information: cafod.org.uk/gapyear

A Valentine Opportunity for Married Couples: The Diocesan Marriage and Family Life team are hosting their first ‘Breakthrough’ workshop on the 11th February. This could be a lovely gift for spouses during National Marriage Week and a precursor for their Valentine's Day celebration. Breakthrough offers couples some opportunity and strategies to overcome communication 'gridlock'. We often hear that it takes Two to Tango BUT we demonstrate that it takes ONE to change the dance. ‘Breakthrough’ is an individual experience. Spouses may attend as a couple or come alone. There is NO sharing. Rooted in sound psychology and Catholic theology, practical insights and tools are on offer for participants. All you need to bring is a pen for the exercises. Contact the MFL office for more details on marriagefamilylife@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk.

LOURDES PARISH PILGRIMAGE 2023? It is possible that we may arrange another Parish Pilgrimage to Lourdes this year – probably in early July. In order to gauge viability for planning the trip, please make your possible interest known either to Fr Michael or to Anne Paice, to help reach a decision. Costs can then be sourced from the tour operator.

NEW PART-TIME PARISH ADMINISTRATOR FOR ST JOSEPH’S! Following the recent recruitment process, the appointment of our new Parish Administrator is confirmed! Rebecca Couzens will be available in the presbytery Parish Office Mon, Wed, Fri from 09.00am-12 noon. We will all wish to welcome Rebecca to her new role. She brings much experience as a solicitor, school governor, and as a volunteer in many quarters including the West Berks Food Bank.

Pope Francis visits South Sudan: A three-day visit began on Friday to promote peace and reconciliation in a country bearing the deep scars of civil war. It is the first visit to South Sudan by a pope since the predominantly Christian nation gained independence from Muslim-majority Sudan in 2011 after decades of bloody struggle. He is accompanied by the Archbishop of Canterbury, and the Moderator of the Church of Scotland. It is the first joint foreign trip by the three Christian leaders, who have called it a "pilgrimage of peace". Peace has eluded South Sudan, with a five-year civil war leaving 380,000 people dead, four million displaced, and the young country deeply impoverished.

29th January 2023

Tuesday 31st January: 7.30pm Meeting of the Parish Finance Committee at the Presbytery.

Wednesday 1st February: BIBLE STUDY GROUP 7pm at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford, with Fr Peter Codd. All welcome.

Thursday 2nd February: THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD. 10.00am Mass. Today the Church celebrates the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord which occurs forty days after the birth of Jesus and is also known as ‘Candlemas Day’, since the blessing of candles is included in today's liturgy.

Founded by Pope St. John Paul II in 1997, today is also the World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life. He attached it to "Candlemas Day" because consecrated men and women are to be the light in the world, imitating Jesus, the Light of the World.

Friday 3rd February: 10.00am Mass – the traditional Blessing of the Throat on the Memorial of St Blaise is offered today. Followed by First Friday recitation of the HOLY ROSARY immediately after Mass.

CELEBRATING LIFE: The oldest person in the world, Sister André Randon, a member of the Congregation of the Daughters of Charity, has died at the age of 118 years. The details of her remarkable life can be found at: www.indcatholicnews.com/news/46349

FEBRUARY 2023 – ‘SYCAMORE’ is coming to St Joseph’s! In response to an obvious desire on the part of adult Catholics to grow and develop their Catholic faith with greater knowledge and depth the parish will be running a weekly evening session in St Joseph’s Hall following the successful Sycamore Course devised by Fr Stephen Wang in the Archdiocese of Westminster. Fr Michael will start collecting names of those interested in attending from next weekend, but meanwhile you can visit the Sycamore website: www.sycamore.fm

Why the name ‘Sycamore’? In the Bible, Jesus visits Jericho where Zacchaeus is so curious about Jesus that he climbs a sycamore tree to see him. When they meet and begin a conversation, Zacchaeus’ life is changed forever… If potentially interested in taking part in the course, please give your name and a contact number or email to those recording interest after Mass today and next Sunday.

LOURDES PARISH PILGRIMAGE 2023? It is possible that we may arrange another Parish Pilgrimage to Lourdes this year – probably in early July. In order to gauge viability for planning the trip, please make your possible interest known either to Fr Michael or to Anne Paice, to help reach a decision. Costs can then be sourced from the tour operator.v

22nd January 2023

Wednesday 25th January: BIBLE STUDY GROUP 7pm at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford. Fr Peter Codd will commence a weekly evening Bible Study on this date. It is hoped that a morning Bible Study Group will also begin soon in Thatcham at Our Lady of the Assumption Church – details to follow. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity ends today.

Friday 27th January: Holocaust Memorial Day.CANCELLATION. The Youth Group at St Francis de Sales, Wash Common, has had to be cancelled this month due to a break-down of their Hall boiler – and therefore no heating. It is hoped that the next gathering will be on 24th February as planned

Saturday 28th January: CAFOD Meeting 10:30am to 12:30pm at St William of York Church, Upper Redlands Road, Reading RG1 5JT. You are invited to come to a meeting about CAFOD and how your donations make a difference to the communities that CAFOD work with. There will be an update on work tackling climate change in Bangladesh as that is the focus story for Lent Fast Day. Please contact Jo Lewry for more details and to book your place by emailing jlewry@cafod.org.uk or call 07710 094447.

ST PATRICK’S DAY LUNCH – Friday 17th March. 1 pm in St Joseph’s Hall. 2 Course lunch + tea & coffee, £12 per person. To book – email: Shawmpj@gmail.com

‘THE CATHOLIC POST’ – Free copies of this carbon neutral paper are available today, and contain details of how to subscribe (page 8) - Annually (12 editions by post) £48; on-line annually (12 editions by email) £36. If enough people are interested, I can order 100 copies per month, and as the front page requests, each month “please donate £1 to support your parish”. Please let me know your interest.

UPDATE - West Berks Foodbank: Donations may be made directly to the Foodbank bank account, with the following details: Lloyds Bank, Newbury: Sort Code 77-95-05 West Berks Foodbank: Account No. 72784660

Alternatively, if online banking is not suitable for you, then you may send a cheque payable to “West Berks Foodbank” and send to: The Treasurer, West Berks Foodbank, 30 Broadmeadow End, Thatcham, RG18 4ED. You may, in addition, if you wish (provided that you are a UK tax-payer) complete a Gift Aid form to add 25% value to your donation.

14th January 2023

Click here to read the PASTORAL LETTER FROM THE BISHOP- Read at Mass on 8th January 2023

Wednesday 25th January: BIBLE STUDY GROUP 7pm at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford. Fr Peter Codd will commence a weekly evening Bible Study on this date. It is hoped that a morning Bible Study Group will also begin soon in Thatcham at Our Lady of the Assumption Church – details to follow.

Friday 27th January: Youth Group 6pm-8pm at St Francis de Sales’, Wash Common. Open for those who have made their First Holy Communion up to age 18. Variety of fun activities from crafting to T-shirt printing, games, sports, cooking and eating! Youngsters from St Joseph’s are very welcome to come along.

Saturday 28th January: CAFOD Meeting 10:30am to 12:30pm at St William of York Church, Upper Redlands Road, Reading RG1 5JT. You are invited to come to a meeting about CAFOD and how your donations make a difference to the communities that CAFOD work with. There will be an update on work tackling climate change in Bangladesh as that is the focus story for Lent Fast Day. Please contact Jo Lewry for more details and to book your place by emailing jlewry@cafod.org.uk or call 07710 094447.

UPDATE - West Berks Foodbank: Donations may be made directly to the Foodbank bank account, with the following details: Lloyds Bank, Newbury: Sort Code 77-95-05 West Berks Foodbank: Account No. 72784660

Thursday 19th January: Guided Prayer 7pm-8pm: first of six fortnightly online sessions (via Zoom) of guided prayer led by the spirituality team at the London Jesuit Centre and some special guests. Each hour-long session introduces a method of prayer, such as the Examen or imaginative prayer. Participants will be guided through the prayer, with space for silence to enter more deeply into it, and a chance to share and reflect upon the experience. You only need to sign up once for all 6 sessions. Go to https://londonjesuitcentre.churchsuite.com/events/9r5rwkzh

Wednesday 18th January: Today marks the start of the Annual Octave of Prayer for Christian Unity. Please include this intention in your prayers for the next 8 days.

8th January 2023

Sunday 15th January: 11am Mass – Children’s Liturgy will take place during this Mass today for all primary school age children.

Wednesday 11th January: 10.00am REQUIEM MASS FOR POPE ‘EMERITUS’ BENEDICT XVI: Father Peter will celebrate a Requiem Mass this morning.

CHANGES TO NOTE: Our Diocese of Portsmouth becomes a CIO (Charitable Incorporated Organisation) as from 1st January 2023 in order to streamline many of its administrative procedures in common with many other charities. As part of the Incorporation project, the diocese takes on a new Charity name and number:

New CIO Name: ‘Catholic Diocese of Portsmouth’

New Charity number: 1199568

Monday 9th January: From today, following the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, the Church begins the period of the Liturgical Year known as ‘Ordinary Time’, the Sundays and weekdays per annum. The liturgical colour is green, symbolising new life and hope. The overall purpose of this season is to contemplate the life and teaching of Christ and the salvation he has won for us. The Sunday readings this year belong to Cycle A and are mostly from St. Matthew. The weekday readings follow Year One of the Lectionary Cycle.

West Berks Cost of Living Support Hub: Are you struggling to pay bills and make ends meet? West Berks Cost of Living Support Hub is there to help by providing advice, help and support to anyone facing financial hardship. They will put you in touch with charities and local organisations who can help you so please contact them via www.westberks.gov.uk/cost-of-living-support-hub or email costofliving@westberks.gov.uk or by phone on 01635 503333.

Marriage Encounter: are pleased to offer you the opportunity to refresh, deepen and bring joy into your relationship by attending one of their enrichment experiences either in person or online. The experience offers precious quality time to support lifelong relationships, personal and spiritual growth, all in a Catholic faith context. The next Marriage Encounter experiences are: (in person) Swindon on the 3-5 March 2023, and on (online) 13/14 May. Full details of all Marriage Encounter experiences can be found on their website https://wwme.org.uk.

NEWBURY CHRISTIAN SHOP: ‘The Christopher Shoemaker Christian Centre’ sells a wide variety of Christian-focused goods: The Arcade, Market Place, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 5AD.

Thank you for your support for CAFOD in 2022: Many thanks for your support for CAFOD’s work last year - especially for the emergency appeals: Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal and Pakistan Flood Appeal. Your donations make a huge difference to the communities CAFOD works with around the world. Have you considered using your time and skills to volunteer for CAFOD? Please contact Jo Lewry in Portsmouth for information on CAFOD volunteering opportunities jlewry@Cafod.org.uk or call 07710 094447

FEBRUARY 2023 – ‘SYCAMORE’ is coming to St Joseph’s! In response to an obvious desire on the part of adult Catholics to grow and develop their Catholic faith with greater knowledge and depth the parish will be running a weekly evening session in St Joseph’s Hall following the successful Sycamore Course devised by Fr Stephen Wang in the Archdiocese of Westminster. Fr Michael will start collecting names of those interested in attending from next weekend, but meanwhile you can visit the Sycamore website: www.sycamore.fm Why the name ‘Sycamore’? In the Bible, Jesus visits Jericho where Zacchaeus is so curious about Jesus that he climbs a sycamore tree to see him. When they meet and begin a conversation, Zacchaeus’ life is changed forever…

1st January 2023

St. Joseph's Parish feedback following consultation on the Diocesan draft 10 Year Plan - Click Here to View

Friday 6th January: THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD, Holy Day of Obligation. Masses at 10.00am and 7pm. The heart of today’s feast lies in the revelation of Christ to the non-Jewish world represented by the Magi. It recognises the stages of God’s showing himself to the world, first to the Jewish people and then, through the Jewish Jesus, to all people. It is a feast of light: Jesus is the light of the world and brings light to all who believe in him.

10.40am: Recitation of the Holy Rosary will follow immediately after the 10.00am Mass this morning.
1.30pm: Mass at St Joseph’s School.

THANK YOU FROM FR MICHAEL: I would like to thank the parish community for all your kind support and help during my first year at St Joseph’s which helped make my transition back to parish ministry so much easier. My sincere thanks, too, for all your good wishes, cards, and generous gifts this Christmas which are greatly appreciated. You have been so very kind. Please forgive me if I do not manage to acknowledge everyone’s kindness individually.

THE CHRISTMAS CRIB OFFERINGS 2022 – Offerings left at the crib this year are allocated to go to assist Christian communities in the Holy Land, to be administered by the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre. Thank you.

New CIO Name: ‘Catholic Diocese of Portsmouth’

New Charity number: 1199568

18th December 2022

St. Joseph's Parish feedback following consultation on the Diocesan draft 10 Year Plan - Click Here to View

Sunday 18th December: 4th SUNDAY OF ADVENT - The annual parish second collection in support of the charity work of the SVP (St Vincent de Paul Society) in our community will be taken at Masses today. Alternatively, cheques can be made payable to ‘The SVP Newbury’, and passed on through Fr Michael.

If you know of anyone who would like to receive our prayers please inform Fr Michael via the parish telephone number or email address.

CONSULTATION ON SCHOOL ADMISSIONS POLICY OF ST JOSEPH’S PRIMARY SCHOOL 2024 – 25 St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School is consulting on its school Admissions Policy for the 2024–25 academic year for 7 weeks between 2nd Dec 2022 and 20th Jan 2023. School admission authorities must consult on their admission arrangements if they have not consulted in the last 7 years. This is the case with St Joseph’s School. There are no other proposed changes to the policy. The proposed policy may be viewed: https://stjosephs-westberks.secure-dbprimary.com/westberks/primary/stjosephs/site/pages/admissions/newintakeinformation Email any comments on the 2024-25 Admissions Policy to the Clerk to Governors rhousegemmell@stjosephs.w-berks.sch.uk by 20th January 2023.

From the Diocese: The Christmas Collection. The collection of Christmas Day is an opportunity for parishioners to acknowledge the service and witness our parish priests offer across our Diocese. In addition to the usual ways of giving for this collection, donations may be received via an online giving page, set up specifically for each parish. St Joseph’s Parish has a dedicated page on the fundraising platform, Give As You Live, which enables online donations to be made. This is the link to your dedicated Christmas Collection page: https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/newbury-st-joseph-catholic-parish-christmas-collection--2022

11th December 2022

St. Vincent de Paul Annual Christmas Appeal: These are difficult and uncertain times especially for people who find themselves in real financial difficulty – difficulty not of their own making. This quite accurately describes the families we help with their fuel bills and the plight of the victims of domestic abuse and their children who sought and received our help during 2022. One of many costly consequences of Domestic Abuse can be the need to relocate families to a new and safe place to live. Cash strapped councils usually do the best they can, but the accommodation allocated can be very basic indeed. Given the circumstances, the task of building a new life – independent and free from abuse for themselves and their children – virtually from scratch is tough and demanding. Much of the help SVP give focuses on making that task a bit easier by paying for items such as doorbell cameras, washing machines, curtains for children’s bedrooms, additional counselling for badly traumatised victims, transport costs to take fleeing families to new locations, a fun day out for child victims of abuse, engaging barristers urgently during child arrangements hearings and so on. This very practical and timely help was only made possible by your great generosity last Christmas. On behalf of those we helped, thank you so much! Please help us to continue the work of the SVP, especially during these very difficult times for so many.

Tuesday 20th December: 7.30pm ADVENT PENITENTIAL SERVICE WITH CHRISTMAS CONFESSIONS for the West Berks Pastoral Area, hosted at St Joseph’s Church. Please take this opportunity to make your Confession before Christmas as priests from all our neighbouring parishes will be present to hear confessions.

Sunday 18th December: 4th Sunday of Advent. The annual parish second collection in support of the charity work of the SVP (St Vincent de Paul Society) in our community will be taken at Masses next Sunday.

Thursday 15th December: Is the deadline date to submit your feedback on the diocese’s draft 10 Year Plan document, ‘You Will Be My Witnesses’. A feedback proforma can be accessed at www.portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

Sunday 18th December: 4th Sunday of Advent. The annual parish second collection in support of the charity work of the SVP (St Vincent de Paul Society) in our community will be taken at Masses next Sunday.

From the Diocese: The Christmas Collection. The collection of Christmas Day is an opportunity for parishioners to acknowledge the service and witness our parish priests offer across our Diocese. In addition to the usual ways of giving for this collection, donations may be received via an online giving page, set up specifically for each parish. St Joseph’s Parish has a dedicated page on the fundraising platform, Give As You Live, which enables online donations to be made. This is the link to your dedicated Christmas Collection page: https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/newbury-st-joseph-catholic-parish-christmas-collection--2022

Christmas Worship on Zoom: 17th December 11.00-12noon. One hour of scripture, prayer and song to remember that, in the midst of all the woes of the world, GOD IS WITH US to support us in every aspect of our lives. 10.50am Log in; 11.00am Scriptures, prayers and songs; 12.00pm End. Joining details - no need to register in advance. Log in at bit.ly/ADOREDEC2022 and use pass code 171602

CONSULTATION ON SCHOOL ADMISSIONS POLICY OF ST JOSEPH’S PRIMARY SCHOOL 2024 – 25 St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School is consulting on its school Admissions Policy for the 2024–25 academic year for 7 weeks between 2nd Dec 2022 and 20th Jan 2023. School admission authorities must consult on their admission arrangements if they have not consulted in the last 7 years. This is the case with St Joseph’s School. There are no other proposed changes to the policy. The proposed policy may be viewed: https://stjosephs-westberks.secure-dbprimary.com/westberks/primary/stjosephs/site/pages/admissions/newintakeinformation Email any comments on the 2024-25 Admissions Policy to the Clerk to Governors rhousegemmell@stjosephs.w-berks.sch.uk by 20th January 2023.

CHRISTMAS LUNCH – 25th December 10.00am to 4pm At St George’s Church Hall, Newbury. Volunteers are needed to facilitate this lunch for those who otherwise might be alone on Christmas Day. Needed: • Drivers, who need not stay the whole day. • A Compere, someone who enjoys being up front to introduce the entertainment. • Entertainers for about 10-15 minutes each, from 11am to 12.15pm or 2.30 to 3pm, playing a musical instrument, singing, carol lead singer, dancing, mime, telling a funny story or something that would involve our guests. • Washing up in the kitchen, • Companions, • 10 x Table Decorations, • 1 large home-made Christmas Cake. Help is also needed on Christmas Eve to set up in the hall and to prepare the vegetables, etc in the kitchen. As it is a Saturday volunteers can meet in the Hall from 10.30am-12.30pm. For more information or to volunteer, please contact Joanna Abraham, Email: marinaoabraham@gmail.com

4th December 2022

Friday 9th December: N.B. Mass will be at 9.30am today.

Advent Calendars, Christmas Cards, Christmas Mass Bouquet Cards & Cancer Care Calendars: Will be on sale in the hall after the Sunday 11.00am Mass today, and 11th December.

SUNDAY TEA/COFFEE VOLUNTEERS: The new rota for those who volunteer to help with tea and coffee after 11.00am Sunday Mass is ready for collection from the Sacristy this Sunday. Thank you for helping.

VOLUNTEER NEEDED: Missio & Mill Hill Missionaries – Red Boxes. If any Red Box collector who is under 75 years of age is willing to volunteer to periodically bank Red Box money (an occasional task that is not too onerous), please speak to Fr Michael. We are extremely grateful to Ann Evans who has undertaken responsibility for this role in recent times, but who is now regrettably obliged to stand down. Thank you, Ann.

YOUTH GROUP – St Joseph’s young people are welcome to attend St Francis de Sales’, Wash Common, group which runs from 6-8pm. Open for those who have made their First Holy Communion up to age 18. Variety of fun activities from crafting to T-shirt printing, games, sports, cooking and eating! Upcoming dates for the school year…

VOCATIONS: Advent is a good time for us to stop and listen to hear how God is speaking with each of us. The question of vocation is, ‘What are we called to do to prepare for the coming of the Lord?’ Sometimes our vocation is not always obvious to us, and it is important to seek opportunities to recognise what our life’s mission is to be. That is discernment. Discernment is being aware and reflective - to see how God is moving and leading you.

Recently Pope Francis said 'Discernment involves hard work. According to the Bible, we do not find set before us the life we are to live. God invites us to evaluate and choose. He created us to be free and wants us to exercise our freedom. Therefore, discerning is demanding'. For information email vocations@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

Prayer: “Heavenly Father, Your Divine Son taught us to pray to the Lord of the harvest to send labourers into His vineyard. We ask You to bless our diocese with selfless hearts that are willing to serve Your Church.”

Contactless Donations: Use your contactless debit/credit card or smart phone/device to make a donation on our Digital Collection Pads. Simply choose the amount you wish to donate and hold your card onto the reader. Contactless donations are simple to administer, secure and convenient. Gift Aid details need only be entered once and will be retained for future donations.

By clicking the link below it is now possible to make a secure direct donation to the parish via the website in addition to
using the ‘Touch Giving Digital Collection Plates’ in the church on Sundays.

https://donate.mydona.com/st-josephs-newbury

West Berks Foodbank: As Christmas approaches, WBFB are promoting "Reverse Advent Calendar" & "12 Days of Christmas" themes seeking your support - details of these are posted at the church entries and in the hall - donations can be left here or at supermarket collection points. Cheques can also be paid to “West Berks Foodbank” at: The Treasurer, West Berks Foodbank, 30 Broadmeadow End, Thatcham, RG18 4ED, or direct transfer to the Foodbank Account -: Lloyds Bank, Newbury: Sort Code 77-95-05, Account No. 72784660

27th November 2022

Friday 2nd December: HOLY ROSARY follows after 10.00am Mass today.

Saturday 3rd December: A Christmas Choral Concert, at 7.30pm, by the Newbury Choral Society, in St Nicholas’ Church, Newbury. Tickets £15, under 16s £5, available online at www.newburychoral.org.uk

Sunday 4th December: 11.00am Mass – CHILDREN’S LITURGY will take place in the parish hall during this Mass for children aged 4 years and above. Parents are welcome to accompany younger children.

Homes for Ukraine Matching Service: Caritas have a new service to connect displaced Ukrainians with Catholic families willing to host them for 6 months. See the poster in church or visit www.sjog-homesforukraine.uk

CAFOD World Gifts: Give a gift of hope this Christmas. In Advent, let’s share the promise of hope that has been made to us with our sisters and brothers around the world. You can buy CAFOD’s World Gifts for family and friends this Christmas online at https://worldgifts.cafod.org.uk/ or pick up a catalogue in church. World Gifts such as “super soup kitchens”, “trees for life”, or “water for a family” will help transform lives in a world filled with challenges.

VACANCY FOR ST JOSEPH’S PARISH PART-TIME PARISH SECRETARY: a Parish Admin Support member to work for 9 hours per week to assist Fr Michael, facilitate the parish mission, work in conjunction with others who contribute as volunteers. Hours of work: Part time post: 9 hours per week initially (subject to increase in time). Days and times to be agreed. Salary: up to £13 per hour.

Experience and Qualifications for the role:

· An experienced administrator with secretarial, interpersonal, time management and prioritisation skills.

· Computer literate, skilled in word-processing and data management as well as internet and all-round office skills.

· Good communication skills - written and verbal, to promote effective interaction between clergy, area administrators and parishioners as well as managing the day-to-day management of the Parish Hall.

· Knowledge of parish and diocesan organisation structure (desirable).

· Understanding of Data Protection legislation.

Personal Attributes:

· Self-motivated with the ability to work without supervision: taking initiative and using judgement; able to work under pressure, cope with change and deal with conflicting demands and differing personalities.

· Diplomatic, discreet with a sympathetic nature able to maintain high degree of confidentiality and trust.

· Sympathetic to the Ministry and Mission of the Catholic Church.

Closing date for applications: Friday 2nd December 2022; Interview date: To be confirmed.

Application forms and Job Description are available from: recruitment@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

16th Dec (Christmas party!); 27th Jan; 24th Feb; 24th March (Stations of the cross); 28th Apr (Eastertide Celebration); 26th May; 7th July (Summer Party); 29th Sept. Please email ellenmclinch@gmail.com for more information

CHRISTMAS LUNCH – 25th December 10.00am to 4pm At St George’s Church Hall, Newbury. Volunteers are needed to facilitate this lunch for those who otherwise might be alone on Christmas Day. Needed: • Drivers, who need not stay the whole day. • A Compere, someone who enjoys being up front to introduce the entertainment. • Entertainers for about 10-15 minutes each, from 11am to 12.15pm or 2.30 to 3pm, playing a musical instrument, singing, carol lead singer, dancing, mime, telling a funny story or something that would involve our guests. • Washing up in the kitchen, • Companions, • 10 x Table Decorations, • 1 large home-made Christmas Cake. Help is also needed on Christmas Eve to set up in the hall and to prepare the vegetables, etc in the kitchen. As it is a Saturday, volunteers can meet in the Hall from 10.30am-12.30pm. For more information or to volunteer, please contact Joanna Abraham, Email: marinaoabraham@gmail.com or telephone 07828244119.

Pope Francis Teaches: The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women was last Friday. The day aims to help eliminate violence against women and girls around the world. Meanwhile, UN statistics show that on average, a woman or girl is killed by someone in her own family every 11 minutes. The day is meant to raise women’s voices and condemn all forms of trauma imposed on women, not limited to domestic abuse and sexual assault. Pope Francis has said that mistreating a woman, or her body, is “blasphemy to God,” and reminds us that our level of humanity is measured by how we treat women.

12th November 2022

Sunday 20th November: SOLEMNITY OF CHRIST THE KING. 09.15am: Parish Breakfast Meeting in the hall to discuss thoughts and reactions to the Draft Diocesan 10 Year Plan – with a view to summarising some feed-back to send to the diocese by 15th December. Even if you have not yet had time to look at the Draft at www.portsmouthdiocese.org.uk/our-mission/planning/ten-year-plan/ do stay on after the 08.30 am Mass to learn and discuss more. The meeting will conclude by 10.00am

Advent Calendars, Christmas Cards, Christmas Mass Bouquet Cards & Cancer Care Calendars: Will be on sale in the hall after the Sunday 11.00am Mass on the 13th, 20th, & 27th November, plus 4th & 11th December.

PAPAL BROADCAST: In his November video, Pope Francis invites us to pray for the “millions of boys and girls who suffer and live in conditions very similar to slavery,” and asks us to open our eyes to “the exploitation of these children who don't have a right to play, to study, to dream. They don't even enjoy the warmth of a family - homeless, orphans, and victims of war". The world is full of children without a childhood, and each of them - the Pope says in this video - is “a cry that rises up to God and shames the system that we adults have built.”www.youtube.com/watch?v=MafPVv25rBs

Homes for Ukraine Matching Service: Caritas have a new service to connect displaced Ukrainians with Catholic families willing to host them for 6 months. See the poster in church or visit www.sjog-homesforukraine.uk

CAFOD World Gifts: Give a gift of hope this Christmas. In Advent, let’s share the promise of hope that has been made to us with our sisters and brothers around the world. You can buy CAFOD’s World Gifts for family and friends this Christmas online at https://worldgifts.cafod.org.uk/ or pick up a catalogue in church. World Gifts such as “super soup kitchens”, “trees for life”, or “water for a family” will help transform lives in a world filled with challenges.

6th November 2022

Bamenda Sunday: We mark today our link with the Archdiocese of Bamenda; for the ministry of Bamenda priests serving in our Diocese; we pray for our brothers and sisters there and for the restoration of peace and justice in the region; and donate (2nd collection) to the annual appeal to support projects in Bamenda. The Bamenda Newsletter can be read at: https://bamendaandportsmouth.com/bamendasunday2022.php and donations can be made via parish collections or online securely at: https://www.bamendaandportsmouth.com/ Thank you for your generosity.

Monday 7th November: 7.30pm Confirmation Preparation for all our candidates, at Douai Abbey. Please keep our 5 candidates in your prayers as they prepare!

Tuesday 8th November: 7.30pm Meeting of the Parish Finance Committee in St Joseph’s Hall. Committee members are: John Horner, Phil Hobbs, Teresa Brown, Anne Paice, Tracey Goodall, Chris Bartlam.

Friday 11th November: ARMISTICE DAY. Mass at 10.00am. The nation observes a 2 minute silence at 11.00am to mark the 104th anniversary of the end of World War I at the time the guns fell silent.

Advent Calendars, Christmas Cards, Christmas Mass Bouquet Cards & Cancer Care Calendars: Will be on sale in the hall after the Sunday 11.00am Mass on the 13th, 20th, & 27th November, plus 4th & 11th December.

Homes for Ukraine Matching Service: Caritas have a new service to connect displaced Ukrainians with Catholic families willing to host them for 6 months. See the poster in church or visit www.sjog-homesforukraine.uk

23rd November: ‘Stand in Solidarity’ with Ukraine, Liturgy on #RedWednesday (a day of action in support of all those who suffer for their religious beliefs.) from 5:45 pm at The Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral, London, 21-22 Binney Street, London W1K 5BQ – sponsored by ACN (Aid to the Church in Need). Sung Ukrainian Holy Mass at 6:15 pm. Refreshments at 7:30pm before an evening talk on ACN’s ‘Persecuted and Forgotten’ Report. Book free tickets at www.acnuk.org

CLIMATE REFELCTIONS The 27 page document ‘Call of Creation’, composed by the Bishops' Conference of England and Wales (BCEW) and originally published in 2002, was updated and re-released in October 2022 by the BCEW Department for Social Justice. The document in full may be accessed on the homepage of the BCEW website at: www.cbcew.org.uk

30th October 2022

Advent Calendars, Christmas Cards, Christmas Mass Bouquet Cards & Cancer Care Calendars: Will be on sale in the hall after the Sunday 1100am Mass on the 13th, 20th, & 27th November, plus 4th & 11th December.

CTNA (Churches Together in Newbury Area) Invitation. Sunday 30th October, 6pm, St Nicholas’ Church, Northbrook Street. All Christians in Newbury are invited to the Annual Prayer Day Service for Newbury. Fr Michael will be leading some prayers. "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14. There will be light refreshments in the Church Hall after the service

Tuesday 1st November: SOLEMNITY OF ALL SAINTS (Holy Day of Obligation) Masses at 10.00am and 7.00pm. We rejoice today not only in the great heroes and heroines of Church history, but in that huge number, impossible to count of unknown saints from every nation, race, tribe and language, hopefully our own friends and relatives too, who are now in heaven, in the Lord’s presence.

Wednesday 2nd November: COMMEMORATION OF ALL SOULS. Mass at 10.00am. We pray for the faithful departed that, cleansed from sin, they may enter eternal happiness.

Thursday 3rd November: N.B. MASS AT 9.15am

7.30pm Evangelisation Strategy Meeting of West Berks Pastoral Area for committee members at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Hungerford.

Friday 4th November: Recitation of the Holy Rosary after 10.00am Mass today.

Sunday 6th November: Second Collection for charity in Bamenda – our twin diocese in the Cameroon, West Africa.

Universe Catholic Weekly Newspaper: Introductory offer of our weeks’ free download – thereafter quarterly subscription for £20. See posters or call Michelle on 07436 617650.

FAITHFUL WITNESS: Bishop Nicholas Hudson (Auxiliary Bishop, Westminster) has celebrated a Pontifical Mass at the unveiling and blessing of the new Shrine of Blessed Carlo Acutis (1991-2006), at Corpus Christi Church in Covent Garden. An Italian teenager, born in London, Blessed Carlo died aged 15 from leukaemia. After his First Communion Carlo became a frequent communicant, making a point of praying before the tabernacle before or after every Mass.

At school Carlo comforted friends whose parents were undergoing divorce, and stepped in to defend disabled students from bullies. After school he volunteered his time with the homeless and destitute of Milan. Considered a computer geek by some, Carlo spent four years creating a website dedicated to cataloguing every reported Eucharistic miracle around the world. He also enjoyed films, comics, soccer, and playing popular video games. When diagnosed with leukaemia, Carlo offered his sufferings to God for the intentions of the Pope and the entire Church. His feast day is 12th October. Details about Blessed Carlo’s life may be found at http://www.carloacutis-en.org/

23rd October 2022

Monday 24th October: N.B. 10.00am Mass today. Fr Peter Codd is hosting a meeting of clergy in the parish hall today, and will be celebrating Mass in the church at 10.00am. All are welcome.

Thursday 27th October: SPUC (Society for the Protection of Unborn Children) National Prayer Campaign – 10 Million Prayers for 10 Million Lives. Today it will be exactly 55 years since the Abortion Act of 1967 was passed. 10 million babies have since been lost to abortion. Today SPUC, together with the Knights of St Columba, launches a National Prayer Campaign to encourage prayer for a flourishing of the culture of life. The aim? – 10 million prayers pledged (between 27th Oct and 27th April) in memory of 10 million lives lost. Prayers can be pledged online at: www.spuc.org.uk/national-prayer-campaign

OUR NEW ‘SUPER’ PARISH: Following the Bishop’s Pastoral Letter last Sunday a draft version of the Diocese of Portsmouth’s 10 Year Mission Plan, called You will be my Witnesses is now available in printed form at the back of church. You can also download a copy from the diocesan website at www.portsmouthdiocese.org.uk/our-mission/planning/ten-year-plan/

A feedback proforma can be accessed at www.portsmouthdiocese.org.uk This is requested by 15th December. In the New Year, the (new) Pastoral Areas will begin developing local plans. Our parish will be linked with St Francis de Sales, Wash Common; Our Lady of Lourdes, Hungerford; Our Lady of the Assumption, Thatcham; St Mary’s, Upper Woolhampton; Our Lady & St Bernadette, Pangbourne; and St Luke’s, Theale. You are encouraged to start considering the draft document.

Aid to the Church in Need: Nigeria – ACN this week launched a campaign calling for Government action to save Christians from genocidal violence in Nigeria. The ACN ‘Break the Silence’ petition asks the UK Government to exert pressure on Nigeria’s political leaders to bring to justice those responsible for genocidal attacks, abductions and other atrocities plaguing the country. More than 7,600 Christians have been killed within just 18 months and a further 5,200 abducted. Last year alone, there were attacks on more than 400 churches and other Christian institutes. Go to the ACN website (www.acnuk.org), and find petition under the ‘News’ tab.

POPE FRANCIS TEACHES: ‘Re-read your life’s story to discover Christ’. He urges us to examine the story of our life in order to discover the hidden footsteps of Jesus. “Recounting the events of our life also enables us to grasp important nuances and details, which can reveal themselves to be valuable aids, hitherto concealed.” Pope Francis offered that insight last Wednesday at the General Audience. Our life’s story can reveal God’s hidden actions: “Our life is the most precious ‘book’ that is given to us, a book that unfortunately many do not read, or rather they do so too late, before dying.” Pope Francis noted that we too often get stuck in self-condemnation and fail to see God working within us. By rereading our own past, we can learn to set aside “toxic” habits and find the deeper meaning in the events of every day.

This is the Pastoral Letter from last Sunday from Bishop Philip on the Diocesan 10 Year Plan. Click here for a copy also a video is accessible at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90GJ8qaO6oM

‘YOU WILL BE MY WITNESSES’ A version of the Diocese of Portsmouth’s 10-year mission plan, called You will be my Witnesses is now available.

Click here for link to the documents https://www.portsmouthdiocese.org.uk/our-mission/planning/ten-year-plan/

16th October 2022

THANK YOU – PARISH BINGO/FISH & CHIP SUPPER: Thank you to Ted and Marian Shaw and Jeremy and Maureen Smith for organising last Friday’s event, and making it such a fun evening. Their efforts, and the generosity of those who attended, raised £655 to go towards our parish building repairs! An amazing result.

October – Our Lady. In 1884 Pope Leo XII dedicated the month of October to the Rosary in a short encyclical, ‘Superiore Anno’. The month of October had previously also been important to Marian devotion ever since the famous naval Battle of Lepanto on 7th October 1571. Before the battle, Pope Pius V had urged Europe and the outnumbered soldiers resisting the Ottoman advance on Europe, to pray the rosary to secure a major victory. 7th October later became the Feast of the Holy Rosary. In 1917 at Fatima, Mary identified herself as Our Lady of the Rosary.

Sunday 23rd October: WORLD MISSION SUNDAY. Next Sunday is World Mission Sunday when Pope Francis asks us to contribute to the annual collection for Missio, his charity for mission. They help missionaries to work alongside communities throughout the world that are poor and in need to further the Church’s mission to share the Gospel with all. Direct contributions can be made at: www.missio.org.uk

Retrouvaille: A Programme for Couples Struggling in their Marriages. Do you feel alone? Are you frustrated or angry with each other? Do you argue … or have you just stopped talking to each other? Does talking about it only make it worse? Retrouvaille (French for ‘find each other again’) is a Catholic programme to support couples who have difficulties in their marriage. It brings a positive focus, new hope and helps nourish and grow your marriage. Tens of thousands of couples headed for divorce have successfully saved their marriages by attending and using the tools provided. The programme helps spouses uncover or re-awaken the love, trust and commitment that originally brought them together. It helps them through difficult times whether they are disillusioned or in deep misery. There is no group therapy or group work. For confidential information about ‘Retrouvaille’ or to register for the next programme, or a Face to Face weekend in Welwyn Garden City on 24 - 26 February 2023, call or text 07887 296983 or 07973 380443 or email retrouvailleukinfo@gmail.com – or visit www.retrouvaille.org.uk

9th October 2022

CAFOD’s AUTUMN FAST DAY (envelopes still available today) which addresses the issues of food and water insecurity affecting millions of people in the world today. You can also donate direct at www.cafod.org.uk/Fundraise/Family-Fast-Day

Today is also designated ‘PRISONERS’ SUNDAY’ – a day we are asked to remember in prayer prisoners and their families, and all who work in, and are affected by, the criminal justice system.

October – Our Lady. In 1884 Pope Leo XII dedicated the month of October to the Rosary in a short encyclical, ‘Superiore Anno’. The month of October had previously also been important to Marian devotion ever since the famous naval Battle of Lepanto on 7th October 1571. Before the battle Pope Pius V had urged Europe and the outnumbered soldiers resisting the Ottoman advance on Europe to pray the rosary to secure a major victory. 7th October later became the Feast of the Holy Rosary. In 1917 at Fatima, Mary identified herself as Our Lady of the Rosary.

Friday 14th October: BINGO NIGHT in St Joseph’s Hall 6.45pm. Tickets £12 each, which includes a fish and chip supper. Bring your own drinks and re-usable cups/glasses. Contact - Ted Shaw Mobile: 07790 022291. Email: shawejj@gmail.com

Saturday 15th October: 10.00am-12noon: FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PREPARATION – Session 2, in St Joseph’s Hall for all candidates on the programme. The 11.00am Mass the following day will also focus on what the children have been learning, and we welcome all their families to the Mass.

PROPHETIC WORDS: A letter to Jacob Rees-Mogg, Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, from Laudato Si Animators UK, about his fossil fuel extraction proposals may be viewed at www.indcatholicnews.com/news/45562

Jump2it Kids: At John Rankin Infant School a children’s trampolining fitness club aimed at children in KS2 and KS3 is starting on 1st November (£44 for the ½ term) on Tuesday evenings at 6pm. Music, fun, fitness! ‘Taster’ sessions to try are on 11th and 18th October for £6.40 a session. Check out at www.jump-2it.com or email hello@jump-2it.com for more information please see poster at the back of the church.

SPIRITUAL SUPPORT: The ADoRE programme offers a confidential prayer ministry by telephone. To engage with this activity individuals are requested to call 07579 824523 Monday to Friday from 1000hrs to 1600hrs and leave only their name and number.

DOUAI ABBEY AUTUMN PROGRAMME: Douai Abbey is offering a varied autumn programme to which all are welcome. Retreats & reflection days are focused on St John’s Gospel, Christian Mindfulness, Church History, English Choral Music, Julian of Norwich and How to see our soul. The Abbey is also offering an Advent Retreat. For more details of these retreats and reflections days see copies of the programme available at the back of church. To book, go to: www.douaiabbey.org.uk/bookings.php

2nd October 2022

AUTUMN ANNUAL MASS COUNTS: for the last two Sundays, today, and next Sunday, all parishes are obliged to count the number of those attending Mass. Parish priests are obliged to pass these figures back to the diocese which, in turn, passes them on to be combined with other figures from across the country. In due course, national figures are sent to Rome.

Tuesday 4th October: 7.30pm: Meeting of the Parish Finance Committee in the Parish Hall. The Committee will be reviewing the initial draft of the diocese’s Ten Year Plan, ‘You Will Be my Witnesses.’ More detail on this appears elsewhere in the Newsletter, and your feedback is encouraged.

Friday 7th October: AUTUMN FAST DAY in support of the work of CAFOD. Over 20 million people face high levels of food insecurity due to 3 years of drought, and parts of southern and central Somalia face a risk of famine. 6.5 million children are projected to suffer from acute malnutrition. Over 16 million people are living with daily household water insecurity. CAFOD is working with partners to provide immediate lifesaving assistance with food, cash, voucher, water provision. They also support long term food production through climate resilient agricultural approaches, and ensuring that communities have access to safe water.

Calling all Readers, Catechists, those involved with Children's Liturgy, and all looking for opportunities to develop their faith... Visit the Portsmouth Formation for Mission website. It contains useful information and details of forthcoming formation events e.g. Day for Catechists and Children’s Liturgy Leaders in Winchester on Saturday 8th October. Details on the website –www.pffm.org.uk

On Saturday 8th October you can join the diocesan Formation for Mission Team and the Dominican Sisters of St Joseph for a day of thanksgiving, prayer, fellowship and formation for Catechists and Children’s Liturgy Leaders, in Winchester. The day will be led by Fr Mark Hogan, Episcopal Vicar for Evangelisation, who will unveil the plans for the future of Formation for Mission in the diocese, in line with the diocesan strategy. The day is free. Bring a packed lunch.

The Ten Million: On 23rd September 2022, at 11:41am, thousands of people across the UK stopped for a minute of silence to commemorate the ten million lives that have been lost to abortion across Great Britain since the Abortion Act was introduced in 1967. Right To Life UK have released a short two-minute video called The Ten Million, which attempts to illustrate what the UK has lost through the death of these millions of people. They are encouraging people to share the video with friends and family: www.righttolife.org.uk/thetenmillion

‘YOU WILL BE MY WITNESSES’ A draft version of the Diocese of Portsmouth’s 10-year mission plan, called You will be my Witnesses is now available. You can download a copy from the diocesan website at www.portsmouthdiocese.org.uk/our-mission/planning/ten-year-plan/ The Bishop is asking clergy to discuss the plan with Parish Councils, Finance Committees and Evangelisation Strategy Teams, and with the wider parish community. There will also be discussions at Pastoral Area level too. A shorter version of the Mission Plan in printed form is about to be released. It can be viewed online, and a feedback proforma accessed at www.portsmouthdiocese.org.uk The proforma is designed to guide a discussion through the main document so that the feedback (wanted by 15th December) can be easily organised. In the New Year, the (new) Pastoral Areas will begin developing local plans. You are encouraged to start considering the draft document.

25th September

Thursday 29th September: Celebration Mass for the 10th Anniversary of Bishop Philip Egan as Bishop of Portsmouth. 12 noon Mass takes place in St John’s Cathedral Portsmouth today. All are welcome.

The Ministry of Readers at Mass: The Introduction to the Lectionary for Mass says, “It is necessary that those who exercise the ministry of reader . . . be truly suited and carefully prepared, so that the faithful may develop a warm and living love for Sacred Scripture from listening to the sacred readings.” Three important principles apply:

· your job is to communicate, not just read;

· you cannot communicate what you do not understand;

· meaning is not conveyed through words alone.

Therefore: readings must be reviewed, understood, and practised in advance; understand and highlight what words and phrases require emphasis; ask about unfamiliar words or names; read SLOWLY and deliberately, pausing between sentences, and at the end of paragraphs (nerves make people read far too quickly); speak ‘up’, and remember to articulate clearly without being theatrical (the microphone will not, and cannot, do all the work for you!); remember the person furthest away at the back of the church – can they hear every word you say?

Keep your foot on an imaginary ‘brake’ when reading – you can never read too slowly in order to carry people’s understanding and attention with you. Few ministries are as important as that of a reader at Mass because readers are the means by which hearers either come to absorb and appreciate sacred Scripture – or it completely passes them by. Thank you for your ministry.

West Berks Foodbank: A long update note from the Foodbank is posted at each of the church entries and in the hall. It shows that they expect increased demand on their services from the current support of about 700 adults and children. Your support is much appreciated. N.B. However, donations of pasta, tea, porridge, tinned beans, squash & pet food are well stocked.

Donations may be made by cheque payable to “West Berks Foodbank” and sent to: The Treasurer, West Berks Foodbank, 30 Broadmeadow End, Thatcham, RG18 4ED, or direct transfer to the Foodbank bank account, with the following details: Lloyds Bank, Newbury: Sort Code 77-95-05, Account No. 72784660

St Josephs Church Bingo Night: Friday 14th October

Tickets £12 each, which includes a fish and chip supper

Arrival time 6.45; Venue: St Josephs Church Hall. Please bring your own drinks and reusable wine glass.- email: shawejj@gmail.com

18th September

Thursday 22nd September: PARENTS’ MEETING – FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PROGRAMME 2022-23. Parents who have enrolled children in this year’s First Holy Communion Programme are asked to attend a meeting in St Joseph’s Parish Hall at 7.00pm tonight. The first children’s teaching session will take place on Saturday 24th September, 10.00am – 12 noon, and the start of the programme will be celebrated with the children at the 11.00am Mass on Sunday 25th September.

Saturday 24th September: CHILDREN’S SESSION ONE – FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PROGRAMME 2022/2023. 10.00am-12 noon in St Joseph’s Parish Hall. All this year’s applicants are to attend.

POPE FRANCIS: at the ‘7th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions’ in Kazakhstan has urged all religions and societies to involve women and young people in the quest for world peace. During his 38th Apostolic Journey abroad he also commended commitment in the service of dialogue which is now more vital than ever. Pope Francis said, “After the events of 11th September 2001, it was necessary to respond collectively to the incendiary atmosphere that terrorist violence sought to incite, and which threatened to turn religion into a ground for conflict. Pseudo-religious terrorism, extremism, radicalism and nationalism, dressed up in religious garb, nonetheless continue to foment fears and concerns about religion. In these days, then, it proved providential that we could come together once more, in order to reaffirm the authentic and inalienable essence of religion.”

FURNITURE AVAILABLE: Fr Michael has certain items of furniture available: an unused Double Sofa Bed; a chest of drawers and two matching bed-side tables; two white marble-top coffee tables (one square, one rectangular). If interested in these items in return for a donation towards the parish, the items are available to view in the parish hall after Mass.

DOUAI ABBEY AUTUMN PROGRAMME: Douai Abbey is offering a varied autumn programme to which all are welcome. Retreats & reflection days are focused on St John’s Gospel, Christian Mindfulness, Church History, English Choral Music, Julian of Norwich and How to see our soul. The Abbey is also offering an Advent Retreat. For more details of these retreats and reflections days see copies of the programme available at the back of church. To book, go to: www.douaiabbey.org.uk/bookings.php

West Berks Foodbank: A long update note from the Foodbank is posted at each of the church entries and in the hall. It shows that they expect increased demand on their services from the current support of about 700 adults and children. Your support is much appreciated. N.B. However, donations of pasta, tea, porridge, tinned beans, squash and pet food are well stocked.

Donations may be made cheque payable to “West Berks Foodbank” and send to: The Treasurer, West Berks Foodbank, 30 Broadmeadow End, Thatcham, RG18 4ED

11th September

TODAY - DEC Pakistan Floods Appeal: Floods have left a third of Pakistan underwater. Your donation will help CAFOD’s local partners support communities with clean drinking water, food, emergency medical assistance and shelter. The local Pakistani organisation that CAFOD works with in the area is Community World Service Asia (CWSA) and they are already responding. Please pray for those affected. Alternatively, you can donate at cafod.org.uk/give

Wednesday 14th September: Day of Prayer for Ukraine. The European Bishops’ Conference is proposing a day of Prayer across the continent. This day is the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, which is celebrated in a particularly solemn way in the Eastern Rite.

Wednesday 14th September - 7p.m. PIANO RECITAL by Christopher Burrows at St Joseph’s Church. Programme to include works by Beethoven, Chopin, Mozart and Haydn. Tickets £15, payable on the door. Light refreshments during the interval in the Parish Hall. Proceeds will go towards helping fund the cost of essential structural repairs to the Parish Presbytery (£77,000!). If you can do anything to assist with publicity in the final days preceding, it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Pope John Paul I is Beatified: Pope Francis last Sunday beatified Pope John Paul I, whose pontificate in 1978 lasted just 33 days. Pope Francis praised the late Pope for showing the world God’s goodness and for living the Gospel “without compromise. Our new blessed lived that way: in the joy of the Gospel, loving to the very end,” he said. Candela Giarda, a young Argentine woman whose miracle cleared the path for Blessed John Paul’s beatification, experienced a complete recovery on the verge of death that has been attributed to Blessed John Paul I’s intercession when she was aged eleven.

DOUAI ABBEY AUTUMN PROGRAMME: Douai Abbey is offering a varied autumn programme to which all are welcome. Retreats & reflection days are focused on St John’s Gospel, Christian Mindfulness, Church History, English Choral Music, Julian of Norwich and How to see our soul. The Abbey is also offering an Advent Retreat. For more details of these retreats and reflections days see copies of the programme available at the back of church. To book, go to: www.douaiabbey.org.uk/bookings.php

‘YOU WILL BE MY WITNESSES’ A draft version of the Diocese of Portsmouth’s 10-year mission plan, called You will be my Witnesses is now available. You can read it and download a copy from the diocesan website at www.portsmouthdiocese.org.uk/our-mission/planning/ten-year-plan/ Over the coming months, the Bishop is asking clergy to discuss the plan with groups such as Parish Councils, Finance Committees and Evangelisation Strategy Teams, and with the wider parish community. There will also be discussions at Pastoral Area level too. In September, the planning team will provide for easy distribution a shorter version of the Mission Plan in printed form. There will also be a feedback proforma. The proforma is designed to guide a discussion through the main document so that the feedback can be easily organised. The temptation will be to focus on the last section, which is about structural change, but we need to bear in mind that without the structural change we will not have the resources, energy, or capacity to undertake the mission! The key message of You will be My Witnesses is the need for personal conversion and holiness of life. Feedback will be wanted by 15th December. The aim is that in the New Year, the (new) Pastoral Areas can begin developing local plans. You are encouraged to start considering the draft document.

4th September

Thursday 8th September: N.B. MASS TODAY IS AT 09.30am! The Abbatial Blessing of The Right Reverend Paul Gunter OSB as 11th Abbot of Douai Abbey takes place today in the Abbey Church. Please pray for Abbot Paul and for the community on this important occasion for the Abbey, and the local church. Fr Michael will be attending the Mass to represent our parish.

DOUAI ABBEY AUTUMN PROGRAMME: Douai Abbey is offering a varied autumn programme to which all are welcome. Retreats & reflection days are focused on St John's Gospel, Christian Mindfulness, Church History, English Choral Music, Julian of Norwich and How to see our soul. The Abbey is also offering an Advent Retreat. For more details of these retreats and reflections days see copies of the programme available at the back of church. To book, go to: www.douaiabbey.org.uk/bookings.php

COLLECT YOUR RED BOXES! Please collect your ‘Missio’ (APF – ‘Association for the Propagation of the Faith’) Red Boxes from the back of the church if you have not already done so. Please continue your good work of collecting change for an important cause.

URGENT - DEC Pakistan Floods Appeal: Devastating floods have hit Pakistan, leaving millions in urgent need of help to survive. A third of the country is now underwater (that’s an area almost the size of Great Britain). Your donation will help CAFOD’s local partners support communities with clean drinking water, food, emergency medical assistance and shelter. The local Pakistani organisation that CAFOD works with in the area is Community World Service Asia (CWSA) and they are already responding. These local experts are working in Sindh, which is one of the worst affected regions and they desperately need more funds to help more families survive. Please pray for those affected. A second collection will be taken next Sunday, 11th September, for this Appeal. Alternatively, you can donate now at cafod.org.uk/give

Saturday 24th September: ‘A DAY WITH MARY’ - A day of instruction, devotion, and intercession at St Mary’s Catholic Church, High Street, Gosport, 09.30am-6.00pm. More details on the poster at the back of church.

West Berks Foodbank: All donations are welcome at this time. Also, donations may be made directly to the Foodbank bank account, with the following details: Lloyds Bank, Newbury: Sort Code 77-95-05 West Berks Foodbank: Account No. 72784660

28th August

‘AID TO THE CHURCH IN NEED’: The Pontifical Charity is calling on the British government to take action to protect those who are persecuted for their faith. Freedom of religion or belief is enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. According to the United Nations, “There are continuing acts of intolerance and violence based on religion or belief against individuals, including against persons belonging to religious communities and religious minorities around the world, and the number and intensity of such incidents are increasing.” A recent instance: ACN is appealing for prayer for Nicaragua after a bishop was arrested last week, following the expulsion of the country’s Apostolic Nuncio. The Nicaraguan government ejected the Vatican diplomat from the country, demanding his immediate departure. In light of this, the UN General Assembly decided to designate 22nd August as the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief. ACN says not enough is being done to tackle the issue of religious persecution. Dr. Caroline Hull, National Director of ACN (UK), is calling for action by the new British Prime Minister who will succeed Boris Johnson, to take action to ensure violations of freedom of religion or belief are ended.

St Bernadette Relic Tour 2022. In September and October relics of St Bernadette will be coming to England, Scotland, and Wales for the first time – an opportunity for people to experience the gifts and charisms of Lourdes (prayer and healing) in a church or Cathedral near you. A programme of events will take place in St John’s Cathedral during 8th-9th September – book attendance at: www. stbernadette.org.uk/registration/ Alternatively, if seeking a nearer location, the relics will be at St Andrew’s Garrison Church, Aldershot, on 7th September. Attendance here requires no registration or booking.

Join us to find out more about CAFOD’s World Food Crisis Appeal. On Saturday 10th September there is an online meeting from 10:30 am to 12:30pm at which Catherine Ogolla, CAFOD’s Country Representative for Kenya and Uganda, will give an update on the desperate situation in East Africa. On Saturday 17th September there is a CAFOD meeting at St Bede’s Church Hall, Basingstoke, from 10:30am to 12 noon to hear from Ibrahim Njuguna CAFOD’s Surge Country Representative for Africa about the World Food Crisis and the difficulties facing communities in East Africa. Please book your place for either meeting by contacting Jo Lewry on portsmouth@cafod.org.uk or call 07710 094447.

‘YOU WILL BE MY WITNESSES’ A draft version of the Diocese of Portsmouth’s 10-year mission plan, called You will be my Witnesses is now available. You can read it and download a copy from the diocesan website at www.portsmouthdiocese.org.uk/our-mission/planning/ten-year-plan/ Over the coming months, the Bishop is asking clergy to discuss the plan with groups such as Parish Councils, Finance Committees and Evangelisation Strategy Teams, and with the wider parish community. There will also be discussions at Pastoral Area level too. In September, the planning team will provide for easy distribution a shorter version of the Mission Plan in printed form. There will also be a feedback proforma. The proforma is designed to guide a discussion through the main document so that the feedback can be easily organised. The temptation will be to focus on the last section, which is about structural change, but we need to bear in mind that without the structural change we will not have the resources, energy, or capacity to undertake the mission! The key message of You will be My Witnesses is the need for personal conversion and holiness of life. Feedback will be wanted by 15th December. The aim is that in the New Year, the (new) Pastoral Areas can begin developing local plans. You are encouraged to start considering the draft document.

14th August 2022

‘YOU WILL BE MY WITNESSES’ A draft version of the Diocese of Portsmouth’s 10-year mission plan, called You will be my Witnesses is now available. You can read it and download a copy from the diocesan website at www.portsmouthdiocese.org.uk/our-mission/planning/ten-year-plan/

Over the coming months, the Bishop is asking clergy to discuss the plan with groups such as Parish Councils, Finance Committees and Evangelisation Strategy Teams, and with the wider parish community. There will also be discussions at Pastoral Area level too. In September, the planning team will provide for easy distribution a shorter version of the Mission Plan in printed form. There will also be a feedback proforma. The proforma is designed to guide a discussion through the main document so that the feedback can be easily organised. The temptation will be to focus on the last section, which is about structural change, but we need to bear in mind that without the structural change we will not have the resources, energy, or capacity to undertake the mission! The key message of You will be My Witnesses is the need for personal conversion and holiness of life. Feedback will be wanted by 15th December. The aim is that in the New Year, the (new) Pastoral Areas can begin developing local plans. You are encouraged to start considering the draft document.

ST JOSEPH’S PARISH HALL: Do you wish to hire the parish hall for a social event, a class, or activity? The hall is often available for your bookings, and we need to attract more usage to generate parish income. The parish presbytery is in need of £70,000 for essential exterior repairs (including a leaking roof) – a building 100 years older than the church! Please, therefore, spread word of the hall’s availability to anyone you think may be interested. Reasonable hire rates.

31st July 2022

FOR YOUR DIARY: Wednesday 14th September, 7p.m. PIANO RECITAL by Christopher Burrows at St Joseph’s Church. Programme to include works by Beethoven, Chopin, Mozart and Haydn. Tickets £15, payable on the door. Light refreshments during the interval in the Parish Hall. Proceeds will go towards helping fund the cost of essential structural repairs to the Parish Presbytery. If you can do anything to assist with publicising the recital over the coming weeks, please speak with Fr Michael. Thank you.

Click here to view a poster with the details on.

West Berks Foodbank: The Foodbank currently needs: Urgent - Ambient Polish food for Ukrainian guests, tinned meals (pies, stew, hotpot, curry etc), sponge puddings (not chilled), Jam, Lunch box snacks. Low on stock: Instant mash, Long life fruit juice, Ketchup, Shower Gel, Full fat UHT milk. They are currently well stocked on pasta, toothpaste & tea. Thank-you again for your ongoing support! Donations may be made directly to the Foodbank bank account, with the following details: Lloyds Bank, Newbury: Sort Code 77-95-05 West Berks Foodbank: Account No. 72784660, or you may send a cheque payable to “West Berks Foodbank” sending it to: The Treasurer, West Berks Foodbank, 30 Broadmeadow End, Thatcham, RG18 4ED. You may complete a Gift Aid form to add 25% value to your donation if you are a UK tax payer.

Occasional Volunteer Lifts? Would anyone be willing to offer an occasional lift to, or from, the 11.00am Mass for an elderly parishioner? Mobile, but uses a collapsible wheel-chair. Home in central Newbury. Please speak to Fr Michael.

FOR YOUR DIARY: Wednesday 14th September, 7p.m. PIANO RECITAL by Christopher Burrows at St Joseph’s Church. Programme to include works by Beethoven, Chopin, Mozart and Haydn. Tickets £15, payable on the door. Light refreshments during the interval in the Parish Hall. Proceeds will go towards helping fund the cost of essential structural repairs to the Parish Presbytery. If you can do anything to assist with publicising the recital over the coming weeks, please speak with Fr Michael. Thank you.

24th july 2022

ST JOSEPH’S PARISH HALL:

Do you wish to hire the parish hall for a social event, a class, or activity? The hall is often available for your bookings, and we need to attract more usage to generate parish income. The parish presbytery is in need of £70,000 for essential exterior repairs (including a leaking roof) – a building 100 years older than the church! Please, therefore, spread word of the hall’s availability to anyone you think may be interested. Reasonable hire rates. Please contact Anne Paice for bookings on 07510 223160.

FOR YOUR DIARY: Wednesday 14th September, 7p.m. PIANO RECITAL by Christopher Burrows at St Joseph’s Church. Programme to include works by Beethoven, Chopin, Mozart and Haydn. Tickets £15, payable on the door. Light refreshments during the interval in the Parish Hall. Proceeds will go towards helping fund the cost of essential structural repairs to the Parish Presbytery. If you can do anything to assist with publicising the recital over the coming weeks, please speak with Fr Michael. Thank you.

Click here to view a poster with the details on.

Occasional Volunteer Lifts? Would anyone be willing to offer an occasional lift to, or from, the 11.00am Mass for an elderly parishioner? Mobile, but uses a collapsible wheel-chair. Home in central Newbury. Please speak to Fr Michael.

CONFIRMATION 2023. The parishes of the West Berkshire Pastoral Area (Newbury, Thatcham, Wash Common, and Douai) will be starting a course of preparation for young people who wish to be confirmed next Summer. The course is for those in Year 9 or above from September 2022. It is regretted that those in Year 8 or below cannot yet take part. An introductory meeting will be held using zoom on 18th July, but a later zoom will also take place later in the summer. Teaching sessions will take place at Douai Abbey monthly on Monday evenings, with the first session due to take place on 12th September. The young people will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation at the Cathedral in Portsmouth in May/June 2023 (exact date tbc). Please inform Fr Michael as soon as possible of candidates’ names and contact details.

CAFOD, the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development, helps some of the poorest and most marginalised people across the world. It reaches so many people because it is a member of Caritas Internationalis, the Catholic Church network with a presence in 165 countries. Local experts work with people over the long-term, helping them to have the right skills, tools and opportunities to live with dignity and support their families e.g. in South Sudan CAFOD helps families learning how to farm better as the climate gets hotter, so that they can cope better in the future. Why not consider volunteering for CAFOD? They are looking for school volunteers to deliver assemblies and workshops. Please contact Jo on portsmouth@cafod.org.uk for more information.

17th July 2022

SAVE THE DATE! PARISH PARTY ON SUNDAY 7TH AUGUST AT 12 NOON. Following the enjoyable Jubilee party, Father Michael suggested we should socialise again soon. He is celebrating a significant birthday at the end of July and, as yet, we have not had a chance to welcome him properly to our parish. The party will follow the 11am Mass on Sunday 7th; a buffet lunch and drinks will be provided in the hall.

We will need to know numbers for catering purposes at the latest by Sunday 31st July. We hope many of you will join the celebration. Please give your name and number of family attending to either Doreen Green or Anne Paice at the 8.30am Mass or to Mary Barnard, Chris Bartlam or Maureen & Jeremy Smith at the 11am Mass.

SINCERE THANKS. I am very grateful to Shelby Joseph and his team from Vodafone who so kindly came to cut bushes, clear, and improve our church grounds on a ‘Charity Day’ last Wednesday. Their hard work has made a huge difference. Thank you all!

Tuesday 19th July: 7.30pm Meeting of members of the Parish Finance Committee in St Joseph’s Hall.

24th July: World Day of Prayer for Grandparents and the Elderly. Pope Francis is calling on Catholics to pray throughout the month for the elderly. He writes, “We cannot speak about family without talking about the importance of the elderly among us.” He noted that never before in human history have there been so many elderly people, saying “we don’t quite know how to live this new stage of life: there are many plans for assistance for old age, but few projects for existence.” His prayer: “Let us pray for the elderly, that they may become teachers of tenderness so that their experience and wisdom may help young people to look towards the future with hope and responsibility.”

CONFIRMATION 2023. The parishes of the West Berkshire Pastoral Area (Newbury, Thatcham, Wash Common, and Douai) will be starting a course of preparation for young people who wish to be confirmed next Summer. The course is for those in Year 9 or above from September 2022. It is regretted that those in Year 8 or below cannot yet take part. An introductory meeting will be held using zoom on 18th July, but a later zoom will also take place later in the summer. Teaching sessions will take place at Douai Abbey monthly on Monday evenings, with the first session due to take place on 12th September. The young people will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation at the Cathedral in Portsmouth in May/June 2023 (exact date tbc). Please inform Fr Michael as soon as possible of candidates’ names and contact details.

Ordinations for the Portsmouth Diocese: We rejoice in the diaconal ordinations of David Bateman on 25th June and Edward Hauschild on 9th July. Both will now continue their studies and formation in preparation for ordination to the priesthood next summer. Deacon James Lewis was ordained priest yesterday, 16th July, at Portsmouth Cathedral. This afternoon, two permanent deacons will be ordained, Andrew Collins from Stubbington (and where after ordination he will serve) and Timothy Graham, from the Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham. Timothy will be attached to the parish of Grayshott and Liphook, where he will serve under Fr. Simon Chinery.

10th July 2022

FOR YOUR DIARY: Wednesday 14th September, 7p.m. PIANO RECITAL by Christopher Burrows at St Joseph’s Church. Programme to include works by Beethoven, Chopin, Mozart and Haydn. Tickets £15, payable on the door. Light refreshments during the interval in the Parish Hall. Proceeds will go towards helping fund the cost of essential structural repairs to the Parish Presbytery. If you can do anything to assist with publicising the recital over the coming weeks, please speak with Fr Michael. Thank you.

CONFIRMATION 2023. The parishes of the West Berkshire Pastoral Area (Newbury, Thatcham, Wash Common, and Douai) will be starting a course of preparation for young people who wish to be confirmed next Summer. The course is for those in Year 9 or above from September 2022. It is regretted that those in Year 8 or below cannot yet take part. An introductory meeting will be held using zoom on 18th July, but a later zoom will also take place later in the summer. Teaching sessions will take place at Douai Abbey monthly on Monday evenings, with the first session due to take place on 12th September. The young people will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation at the Cathedral in Portsmouth in May/June 2023 (exact date tbc). Please inform Fr Michael as soon as possible of candidates’ names and contact details.

300 Club Lottery Tickets for 2022/2023: If you have not already purchased one and would wish to support our fundraising, please follow the purchase instructions shown below. Our 300 Club Lottery tickets will be on sale via post.

Letters have already been posted to everyone who purchased tickets last year, giving the opportunity to purchase for the

new draws which commence in September. Tickets will not be on sale outside Church. If you wish to purchase a ticket at the cost of £15, please send the application below with payment to Mike Colbert, Springwell, Long Lane, Shaw, Newbury RG14 2TH. The severe financial impact of successive lockdowns on Church income makes the lottery’s contribution towards the cost of church maintenance more valuable than ever. Thank you for your continued support.

Synodal National Synthesis Released. The National Synthesis, discerning the main themes that have emerged from the listening conversations, and collating them together to give a picture of the synodal process in England and Wales is released and is available on the website of the Bishops’ Conference of England & Wales (www.cbcew.org.uk). Since October 2021, the dioceses, national organisations and religious communities have been engaged in listening conversations exploring the way the Church embraces more fully her missionary mandate in the world of today. The diocesan and national organisational reports were submitted to the Bishops’ Conference just before Holy Week, and since then, the National Synthesis Team has been working on producing the “National Synthesis” – reflecting on the reports received, and collating them together to give a picture of the synodal process in England and Wales. This week, the Bishops of England and Wales will gather to discern their response to this National Synthesis. Their work, together with the synthesis document will be sent to the Synod Office in Rome as the formal submission to the Synod from England and Wales.

26th June 2022

PETER’S PENCE SECOND COLLECTION: Our Second Collection this Sunday is for Peter’s Pence - the financial support offered by the faithful to the Holy Father as a sign of their sharing in the concern of the Successor of Peter for the many different needs of the Universal Church, and for the relief of those most in need. Your offerings are destined for Church needs, humanitarian initiatives and social promotion projects, as well as to the support of the Holy See. If you would like to give a gift to this collection, you can donate here: https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/campaign/peters-pence

Wednesday 29th June: SOLEMNITY OF ST PETER & ST PAUL, Apostles – Holy Day of Obligation. Masses at 10.00am and 7pm.

Friday 1st July: Recitation of the Holy Rosary after 10.00am Mass today. 11.30am: Funeral Service for Thomas Chalk RIP.

Sunday 3rd July: 11.00am FIRST HOLY COMMUNION MASS – for half the group. The others will receive their First Holy Communions on Sunday 17th July.

MIGRATION: The government Rwanda scheme continues to be much discussed. At their last meeting the Bishops of England and Wales released a statement about migration: In his 2014 message for the World Day for Migrants and Refugees Pope Francis wrote, ‘We ourselves need to see, and then to enable others to see, that migrants and refugees… are brothers and sisters to be welcomed, respected and loved’.

1. This plea is as urgent as ever. Given the events of recent weeks it is of particular relevance for the Catholic Church. Our appeal for refugees and asylum seekers to be welcomed and respected is based on the fundamental principle of the dignity of every person, created in the image and likeness of God. Every nation should recognise this dignity and the rights which flow from it.

2. We appreciate the complexity and magnitude of the challenges being faced in the ongoing migration crisis. With over 80 million people across the world displaced by war, poverty, persecution and the effects of global warming, this challenge requires collaborative international action. Although resources are limited and there are many competing demands, wealthy countries, including the UK should give leadership in this endeavour.

3. The value we attach to each person and the compassion which the afflicted deserve demands that we welcome asylum seekers, treating them justly and honouring their dignity as human persons.

4. The Nationality and Borders Act fails to do this. Those seeking refuge in the UK should be provided with safe travel routes, the opportunity to tell their story, be listened to and have their cases assessed justly. We keep in mind that there is no illegal asylum seeker; to claim asylum is a human right.

5. People smugglers and modern-day human traffickers profit from the desperation of refugees. We fully support their prosecution. It is imperative however to make a clear distinction between victims and those who exploit them. Crime is defeated by confronting the perpetrators not by punishing the victims.

6. Many British people have given witness to justice through hospitality, providing a compassionate welcome and campaigning on behalf of refugees. We applaud their efforts and kindness.

Our Christian faith demands that we respond generously to asylum seekers whose dignity must be protected and upheld. Jesus taught us, “I was a stranger and you made me welcome.” (Matt 25:35) so we will continue to advocate their cause.

Douai Abbey - Summer Programme begins on Saturday 25th June with a Day of Reflection on ‘Journeying towards the End of Life: Walking the Path & with Others’. Intended as a gentle day with personal space for self-care, reflection, and prayer, it will address questions such as: how do we talk freely about death?; what might spiritual care be? The Full Summer Programme of events at Douai includes these Reflection Days/Retreats: The Holy Spirit in JS Bach, Lectio Divina Retreat, At Home in Bethany, Spirituality of St Bonaventure. A leaflet in the church gives full details.

19th June 2022

Sunday 19th June: ‘DAY FOR LIFE’ Retiring Collection. Our Second Collection next Sunday supports the Day for Life (https://www.dayforlife.org/) initiative, dedicated to raising awareness about the meaning and value of human life at every stage and in every condition. The Church teaches that life is to be nurtured from conception to natural death. Today’s appeal assists the work of the Anscombe Bioethics Centre (new website (https://www.bioethics.org.uk/), and other life-related activities supported by the Church. If you would like to give a gift to this collection, you can donate via the retiring collection, or here from 13th-24th June: https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/campaign/day-for-life-2022

The focus of the Day for Life this year is older persons, so the Bishops invite us to think about the value and worth of the elderly in families and in society, and to make practical choices to build bridges between the generations, devoting quality time and creativity to caring for the older persons in our communities. The COVID pandemic highlighted the desperate plight of many older people, especially those in care homes and those struggling with long-term chronic conditions such as dementia.

Saturday 25th June: 10.00am-11.45am Final First Holy Communion Group Session. N.B. ALL PARENTS - At 11.45am a brief final Parents’ Meeting will take place in the hall to finalise arrangements. Also next Saturday….

ARMED FORCES DAY (40th Anniversary of the end of the Falklands War). Please remember in your prayers today all our Armed Forces personnel and their families – as well as the families of the 255 casualties whose lives were lost in the Falklands War.

Douai Abbey - Summer Programme begins on Saturday 25th June with a Day of Reflection on ‘Journeying towards the End of Life: Walking the Path & with Others’. Intended as a gentle day with personal space for self-care, reflection, and prayer, it will address questions such as: how do we talk freely about death?; what might spiritual care be? The Full Summer Programme of events at Douai includes these Reflection Days/Retreats: The Holy Spirit in JS Bach, Lectio Divina Retreat, At Home in Bethany, Spirituality of St Bonaventure. A leaflet in the church gives full details.

UPDATE ON THE SYNOD PROCESS:

Portsmouth Diocese joined with bishops, clergy and lay people for a meeting in Southwark Cathedral last week as part of the synodal consultation process. This National Synod Day was described as an “important moment in the journey together as we review prayerfully the draft of the national Synthesis”. The meeting gave those who had worked on the diocesan Synod submissions the chance to review together the first draft of the National Synthesis. This Synthesis represents over 700 pages of material the Bishops’ Conference received from dioceses, national organisations, universities, Catholic groups and individuals. A national synthesis team spent May reflecting on the Diocesan Synod submissions and crafting the first draft. All present fed back on how the draft synthesis reflected their diocese, what they felt was missing, what was surprising or disappointing, and topics needing further analysis. There was a desire for continued growth in the synodal process at the diocesan and national levels, and a stated need to “show how it is embedded and how it will go forward.” The National Synthesis Team will take this valuable feedback and incorporate it into a final draft which is planned by the end of June. This will then be loaded on the Episcopal Conference web site.

UPDATE - West Berks Foodbank: The Foodbank currently needs: Urgent - Ambient Polish food for Ukrainian guests, tinned meals (pies, stew, hotpot, curry etc), sponge puddings (not chilled), Jam, Lunch box snacks. Low on stock: Instant mash, Long life fruit juice, Ketchup, Shower Gel, Full fat UHT milk. They are currently well stocked on pasta, toothpaste & tea. Thank-you again for your ongoing support!

Donations may be made directly to the Foodbank bank account, with the following details: Lloyds Bank, Newbury: Sort Code 77-95-05 West Berks Foodbank : Account No. 72784660

Newbury Property to Let? A fellow parishioner is looking for a Newbury property to let for 6 months, or possibly longer – one, or more bedrooms. Please contact Fr Michael for more information.

Now Accepting Contactless Donations

You will find our new DIGITAL COLLECTION PLATE, contactless terminal in the church. Just use your contactless debit/credit card or smart phone/ device to make a donation.

Simply choose the amount you wish to donate and hold your card onto the reader. Contactless donations are simple to administer, secure and convenient.

12th June 2022

PARISH PLATINUM JUBILEE GARDEN PARTY – Last Sunday’s Garden Party was a hugely enjoyable experience, and we did not get a drop of rain! Sincere thanks to all those who attended, as well as all the generous souls who helped contribute and plan for the day. There are photographs on the parish web-site via a link at the top of the home-page or from the Picture gallery link. Click to view photos

West Berks Foodbank: Say thank you for the continued support from local churches - now representing 11% of all donations and only surpassed by supermarkets. However the shortfall in donations continues - we are currently only receiving 80% of our distribution needs (includes help given to Loose Ends, Newbury Soup Kitchen, Help for Ukraine and Racing to help Ukraine in addition to our normal individual clients plus some 300 newly arrived Ukrainian guests).

We are appealing for further help to meet the needs of those we support - current needs are posted at the church entries and are: Urgent - Ambient Polish food for Ukrainian guests, tinned meals (pies, stew, hotpot, curry etc), sponge puddings (not chilled), jam, lunch box snacks. Low on stock: Instant mash, Long life fruit juice, Ketchup, Shower Gel, Full fat UHT milk. We currently are well stocked on pasta, toothpaste & tea. Thank-you again for your ongoing support!

Now Accepting Contactless Donations

You will find our new DIGITAL COLLECTION PLATE, contactless terminal in the church. Just use your contactless debit/credit card or smart phone/ device to make a donation.

Simply choose the amount you wish to donate and hold your card onto the reader. Contactless donations are simple to administer, secure and convenient.

05th June 2022

Saturday 11th June: 10.00am – 12noon Children’s First Holy Communion Preparation Class in the Parish Hall.

A New English Cardinal:

His Holiness Pope Francis has announced this week that Archbishop Arthur Roche, former Bishop of Leeds, and now Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, is to become a Cardinal.

Catholic Legacies Week 5th - 11th June: Our celebration of Pentecost is an opportunity for us to contemplate God’s gift of His Holy Spirit, a gift which has inspired faith across the generations. As we do so, we reflect also on the gift of faith in our own lives – and ask how we might share this gift with generations still to come. One beautiful and practical way to do this is by committing support to the work and witness of the Church beyond the span of our mortal lives, and leaving a legacy giftto the Church in our will. Catholic Legacies Week, 5-11 June, is an ideal opportunity for us to think and pray about this question, and to consider including a legacy to the Church in our will. For more information about legacy giving, please contact legacygiving@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk, or phone 023 9421 6503.

29th May 2022

World Communications Day –

the mandated Second Collection this Sunday is for the CCN (Catholic Communications Network). In addition to promoting the Church’s and the Bishops’ message in the local, regional, national, and international mass media, the CCN helps journalists with their queries and to a better understanding of the Church’s activities and witness. In his message for the Fifty-Sixth World Day of Social Communications, Pope Francis has encouraged us to foster the ability to listen – to God, to one another, to the cry of those in need. Today’s appeal assists the Church to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with people throughout the world. If you would like to give a gift to this collection by means other than the retiring collection, you can donate here until 3rd June: https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/campaign/catholic-communications-network

1st-7th June Volunteers’ Week:

This takes place 1-7 June every year. It is a chance to recognise the fantastic contribution volunteers make to our communities and say thank you. Volunteers’ Week is supported and celebrated by small grassroots organisations as well as larger, household-name charities, who together run hundreds of activities across the UK. These activities showcase and celebrate volunteers and the contribution volunteering makes in our communities. It goes without saying that volunteers have played a key role in the pandemic response. During an exceptionally difficult couple of years, people from all walks of life around the UK have taken the time to volunteer and make a huge difference to their communities – just as they do every year. This is a time for us to come together and thank all volunteers for their invaluable contribution.

THANK YOU TO ALL THOSE IN OUR PARISH WHO VOLUNTEER THEIR TIME AND EXPERTISE TO IMPROVE OUR PARISH MISSION IN SO MANY WAYS. MORE VOLUNTEERS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME! INITIATIVES AND SUGGESTIONS ARE WELCOME. Fr Michael

Assisted Suicide in Jersey:

Last year, the Jersey legislature took the first steps towards legalising euthanasia and assisted suicide on the island – part of our Diocese of Portsmouth. Many see this as the first step towards bringing in legislation here on the mainland. Currently, there are elections taking place in Jersey and so this week Bishop Philip sent a strongly-worded message to the clergy and parishioners of Jersey, encouraging them to engage with the election process and to ask the candidates their views on this distressing subject. All of us are encouraged to engage with this dangerous development, writing to MPs etc. You can read the Bishop’s statement here

https://mailchi.mp/portsmouthdiocese/assisted-suicide-in-jersey-pastoral-message

Blankets for Ukraine – Thank you.

Ann Haynes from Wash Common writes: A massive ‘thank you’ to everyone who has supported and helped in the making of blankets to go out to Ukraine. It is a small, but tangible, expression of the love and support that we feel for the people of Ukraine at this tragic time. Many thanks to you all again for your time, effort, support and love.

Friday 3rd June:

First Friday Holy Rosary will follow 10.00am Mass this morning

22nd May 2022

Thursday 26th May: SOLEMNITY OF THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD – Holy Day of Obligation.

Today’s great feast marks the ascension into heaven of the Risen Christ 40 days after his resurrection. Masses:10.00am and 7.30pm. The children of St Joseph’s School will be celebrating a Mass at 11.00am at which the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee will also be a focus of celebration.

Sunday 29th May: World Communications Day –

the mandated Second Collection this Sunday is for the CCN (Catholic Communications Network). In addition to promoting the Church’s and the Bishops’ message in the local, regional, national and international mass media, the CCN helps journalists with their queries and to have a better understanding of the Church’s activities and witness. In his message for the Fifty-Sixth World Day of Social
Communications, Pope Francis has encouraged us to foster the ability to listen – to God, to one another, to the cry of those in need. Today’s appeal assists the Church to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with people throughout the world.

If you would like to give a gift to this collection by means other than the retiring collection, you can donate here until 3rd June:

https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/campaign/catholic-communications-network

28th-29th May: The Highclere Show. 09.00am-5pm. Go to www.highclereshow.co.uk

NEW SAINTS FOR THE CHURCH: In Rome last Sunday Pope Francis canonized 10 new saints. They are:

+ Saint Devasahayam Pillai, an Indian layman born in 1712 and martyred in 1752.
+ Saint César de Bus, the French founder of the Fathers of Christian Doctrine, who was born in 1544 and died in 1607.
+ Saint Luigi Maria Palazzolo, Italian founder of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Poor, who lived 1827-1886.
+ Saint Giustino Maria Russolillo, Italian founder of the Society of Divine Vocations for men and the Vocationist Sisters, 1891-1955.
+ Saint Charles de Foucauld, French priest and hermit, born in 1858 and killed in 1916.
+ Saint Anna Maria Rubatto, Italian founder of the order now known as the Capuchin Sisters of Mother Rubatto, who lived 1844-1904.
+ Saint Maria Domenica Mantovani, co-founder and first superior general of the Little Sisters of the Holy Family, born in 1862 and died in 1934.
+ Saint Titus Brandsma, Dutch priest and journalist, who was born in 1881 and martyred in 1942.
+ Saint Carolina Santocanale, Italian founder of the Congregation of the Capuchin Sisters of the Immaculate of Lourdes, who lived 1852-1923.
+ Saint Marie Rivier, French founder of the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary. She was born in 1768 and died in 1838.

15th May 2022

PARISH QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE GARDEN PARTY –

Sunday 5th June. Our Garden Party will follow after the conclusion of 11.00am Mass in the grounds of the church. Please bring a picnic lunch, drinks, rugs, or garden chairs. A number of multi-cultural dishes will be offered to share which will clearly state possible allergen issues for those at risk. Some games will be available, and a special Jubilee Cake! Please come and join us in celebration, and bring your iPad, loaded with either BBC or ITV iPlayer to watch the afternoon’s events in London while you picnic.

Vocation to the Permanent Diaconate?

Fr Dominic Adeiza, Diocesan Director of the Permanent Diaconate, invites you to consider if you are being called to the Permanent Diaconate: Have you ever wondered what it’s all about, but something has held you back from finding out more about it? Is there a little voice in your head, that can’t be silenced? If that is YOU, why not ‘Come & See’ for yourself without committing to anything further?

We will be holding an information event on Saturday 11th June at St Bede’s Church, Basingstoke, from 9am – 2pm where you will get to hear first-hand, from those who are involved and what it’s been like for them. You’ve got nothing to lose! If you would like to attend, please call Pam on 07883 059529 to book a space and to help with catering requirements. If you can’t make it on the day, but would like to know more, please contact Pam or email diaconate@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

8th May 2022

NEWBURY SPRING FESTIVAL : 7th-21st May. To see the full programme of musical events: www.newburyspringfestival.org.uk

Thursday 12th May:

11.00am Talk ‘The English Hymnal’, St George’s Church, Wash Common. Tickets £10. In 1904 the agnostic Vaughan Williams set about introducing folk song into The English Hymnal. This revolutionary hymn book was the brainchild of Percy Dearmer, who wanted to rid the Anglican church of turgid 19th-century hymn tunes. After the project had been concluded, Vaughan Williams admitted that his work on The English Hymnal had been ‘a better musical education than any amount of sonatas and fugues’. Jeremey Summerly will present a talk, ‘From Hedgerow to Pew’, focusing on more of the fascinating story of Vaughan Williams and The English Hymnal.

West Berkshire Foodbank.

Currently, the donations for the Foodbank are much lower than last year. Current needs are: Urgent: Tins of Baked Beans, Spaghetti, Soup, Fish, Meat, Custard, Cooking oil, Pasta sauce, Sponge puddings. Low on stock: Tins of Tomatoes, Fruit & Vegetables, Stock cubes, Long life Fruit juice, Tomato puree, Garlic puree, Shower Gel & UHT Long life Milk. This list is updated regularly and can be obtained from the Foodbank App. Thank you for your support. With your help, those in our local community finding themselves in crisis, have somewhere to turn to for immediate support and a food parcel.

The Paradox of Abundance

Over 800 million people go hungry each day. Yet the world produces over 4 billion tonnes of food, and we only need 3.7 billion tonnes to feed everyone. From all this food produced, a third is wasted. St John Paul II called this ‘the paradox of abundance.’ Clearly the currently global food system is not working. But as Pope Francis said, "Each of us has a role to play in transforming food systems for the benefit of people and the planet." Let’s respond to his call. CAFOD’s new campaign is called Fix the Food System. See www.cafod.org.uk/food for more information, including an invitation for parish groups to learn about the impact of our food with our Fix the Food System: a 7-station journey resource.

30th April 2022

Sunday 8TH May: This is ‘Good Shepherd Sunday’ when we traditionally reflect upon our vocation, and also vocations to the priesthood and the religious life. Our Second Collection today is for the Clergy Training Fund, in support of our ten seminarians currently in formation for the priesthood for Portsmouth Diocese, to sustain their six or seven-year journey of studies to ordination. Each seminarian brings his own life experience, and participates in a comprehensive programme of formation pastorally, intellectually, and spiritually. These future priests will baptise and catechise the coming generations, and care for us on our pilgrim way: our generosity today is a legacy to the Church of tomorrow. Deacon James Lewis writes, ‘I cannot believe that it has been six years since I entered seminary formation in Allen Hall, London. I am very grateful to the people in the Portsmouth Diocese who have welcomed and received me so kindly into their parishes over these years… My ordination date, please God, has been confirmed for Saturday 16 July, at 11am in St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth. If you are able to come, you would be very welcome… this is not just for myself but for the whole Church. Please pray for me in these coming months as I will continue to pray for you.’ To sustain a seminarian costs around £30,000 each year. If you would like to give a gift to this collection, you can also donate here: https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/campaign/support-our-seminarians

Wednesday 4th May: N.B. In addition to the 10.00 am Mass today (Intention Janet Colbert RIP), there will be a Requiem Mass at 12 noon for Katherine Young RIP.

Synod Document: The consolidated Portsmouth Diocese Synod Document that was presented to Bishop Philip at the Chrism Mass and has now been forwarded to the Bishops’ Conference. You can view the document on the website: https://www.portsmouthdiocese.org.uk/synod

Significant Wedding Anniversaries Mass 2022 (from Marriage and Family Life Dept, Portsmouth Diocese) Are you celebrating a 25th, 30th, 40th, 50th, 60th anniversary, or anniversary over 60 years? If so, Bishop Philip would like to invite you to a Mass of celebration. This will take place at St Bede’s church in Basingstoke on Saturday 2nd July 2022 at 11am. It is a wonderful occasion to celebrate and witness to Marriage. If you would like to come, please email Liz Murphy at anniversaries@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk If you do not have access to the internet, please contact the Parish Office at St Bede’s and they will provide you with the form. To help celebrate the occasion please could you provide a COPY of your Wedding photograph, you can upload it when you complete the form online. Alternatively, scan and send via email to the above email address. If you have no access to the internet you can post a COPY along with the completed form by post to the following address: St Bede’s Parish Office, Popley Way, Basingstoke, RG24 9DX (Please mark the envelope Significant Wedding Mass).

24th April 2022

Tuesday 26th April: 10.00 am Mass Feast of St George – Patron of England (Transferred from 23rd April).

N.B. Also today: 7pm Planning Meeting for our Parish Platinum Jubilee Garden Party in St Joseph’s Hall. All are very welcome to contribute ideas and potential help. It would be good to hear from as many parishioners as possible to help make this a truly festive and enjoyable occasion!

West Berkshire Foodbank.

Currently, the donations for the Foodbank are much lower than last year. This has meant that for each of the last three months, they have distributed 3 tonnes more than they have received in donations. Obviously this is not sustainable so they are appealing to us to circulate this message amongst our congregation. Current needs are: Urgent: Tins of Baked Beans, Spaghetti, Soup, Fish, Meat, Custard, Cooking oil, Pasta sauce, Sponge puddings. Low on stock: Tins of Tomatoes, Fruit & Vegetables, Stock cubes, Long life Fruit juice, Tomato puree, Garlic puree, Shower Gel & UHT Long life Milk. This list is updated regularly and can be obtained from the Foodbank App. Thank you for your support. With your help, those in our local community finding themselves in crisis, have somewhere to turn to for immediate support and a food parcel.

16th April 2022

Thomas Collins RIP

We were saddened to hear of the death on 9th April of Tom Collins, long-time parishioner of St Joseph’s at the age of 96 years. Tom, known to many here as ‘the gaffer’, gave generously of his time to the parish over many years – among many things running the Legion of Mary, and caring for the gardens around the church. He moved to Newcastle some years ago where he passed away. May he rest in peace.

Sunday 24th April: SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER.

11.00am Mass: Children’s Liturgy of the Word will take place during this Mass in the Hall for all Primary School age children. Those at pre-school are welcome to attend with a parent or grandparent. All the catechists have been trained and DBS checked for working with children.

What happens when the children leave Mass and go to the hall? After a brief welcome and opening prayer, the children say sorry prayers and then listen to a scripture reading from a Children’s lectionary. We then discuss the meaning of the reading and how it should be reflected in the way we live our lives. We end with an activity which reflects on the message of the reading before returning to Mass to take part in the Offertory procession.

Also, today, FEAST OF THE DIVINE MERCY 3pm - Hour of Mercy, Adoration & Reconciliation at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Priory Road, Hungerford, RG17 0AF – a Celebration for the whole West Berkshire Pastoral Area with Fr Zbigniew (Wash Common & Hungerford), Fr Kevin (Thatcham), Fr Gabriel (Douai), and Fr Michael (Newbury). All are welcome.

The Lord Jesus said to Saint Faustina:

“Souls who spread the honour of My mercy I shield through their entire lives as a tender mother her infant, and at the hour of death I will not be a Judge for them, but the Merciful Saviour.” (Diary, 1075)

Tea & Coffee after 11.00am Sunday Mass.

Refreshments are available after 11.00am Mass each Sunday. All are welcome.

Easter Edition of Viva Voce:

The Easter edition of the quarterly Diocesan Newsletter Viva Voce is at the back of the church today. This bumper edition has a special focus on what some of our parishes and our schools – and our families too as domestic churches - are doing to celebrate Easter. There is also an item on the Synod, as well as news from Caritas. Canon John Cooke discusses the importance of parish welcome and hospitality and there is a special schools feature on Passion Plays. Along with Viva Voce, this time there is a special four-page insert Planning the Next Ten Years. It’s about the Diocesan Strategy and where we are up to so far: the priorities that are emerging and the sobering statistics. We are blessed in our Diocese with many committed and faithful people who strive to realise their mission in the service of the Lord and His Church. It is also true that impact of an increasingly secular culture is felt deeply. Over the last 15 years, the Church has been troubled in many ways, with scandal and division, and since 2019, Covid and its shock waves have accelerated a change across society and the Church in a way that we never imagined. It is 15 years since the last strategic plan for our Diocese - Go out and Bear Fruit - was published, so it is timely that we think together about how we respond, so that we can realise our mission in this challenging age, in our fidelity to Christ and His Church to shape the legacy of a vibrant Diocese for future generations.

03rd April 2022

HOLY WEEK MASS TIMES / LITURGIES - Please click here

Tuesday 5th April: 10.30am Stations of the Cross, will follow the 10.00am Mass today.

Thursday 7th April - 7.30pm LENTEN PENITENTIAL SERVICE, OFFERING THE OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE OUR Easter Confession and to be set free from whatever holds us back from more truly loving God and our neighbour, and from becoming the kind of person the Lord wants us to be. We will be joined by the parishes of Thatcham, Wash Common, and Douai – together with their parish priests – for this occasion.

Tuesday 12th April: THE CHRISM MASS, 11.am at St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth, at which Bishop Philip will bless the three Holy Oils to be used in the sacraments over the coming year: the Oil of Catechumens, the Oil of the Blessing of the Sick, and the Oil of Chrism. This is one of the most ancient ceremonies of the Church and is always celebrated in the Cathedral Church with priests, deacons, religious, and lay people of the diocese. This year, the final version of the Synod document will be presented to the Bishop for onward transmission to the Bishops’ Conference and to Rome. Following this, all the priests make a renewal of their commitment to priestly service. All are welcome.

FROM THE PORTSMOUTH DIOCESE: ‘The Easter Collection’ for our parish priests is both an important opportunity for us to express our gratitude to them for their service, care and guidance – and constitutes a significant element of clergy remuneration and support. The Easter Day Collection supports your parish priest directly, in grateful thanks for his dedication, service and witness throughout the year. In addition to the usual ways of giving for this collection, an online giving page has been set up for St. Joseph’s Parish to support this collection for Fr Michael:

https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/newbury-st-joseph-catholic-parish-easter-collection-2022

27th March 2022

Collection for CAFOD:

A total of £1,243.00 was collected. Thank you for your generous response.

Second Collection Today (Clergy Assistance Fund)

This is a (mandatory) Second Collection for the diocesan Clergy Assistance Fund, taken today. The Fund resources the work of the Department for Clergy Team, responsible for looking after the welfare, ongoing formation and personal support of our clergy, from ordination to retirement. The Diocesan Fund supports 70 diocesan clergy in active ministry, 47 from religious orders, the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham or overseas, and 53 retired, who serve our parishes, chaplaincies, schools, outreach and mission. The Fund is reliant on your generosity to do this. You can also donate on-line until Sat 1st April at: https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/campaign/clergy-assistance-fund

Children’s Liturgy of the Word Restarts on Palm Sunday, 10th April.

What happens when the children leave Mass and go to the hall? After a brief welcome and opening prayer, the children say sorry prayers and then listen to a scripture reading from a Children’s lectionary. We then discuss the meaning of the reading and how it should be reflected in the way we live our lives. We end with an activity which reflects on the message of the reading before returning to Mass to take part in the Offertory procession. The activity on Palm Sunday will be decorating plant pots and taking them home planted with flower bulbs and seeds.

Children of primary school age are welcome; those at pre-school are welcome to attend with a parent or grandparent. All the catechists have been trained and DBS checked for working with children.

PASSION PLAY:

Trafalgar Square in central London will be transformed into the Jerusalem of two millenniums ago this Good Friday, 15th April, when the 100-strong cast of the Wintershall Players, accompanied by a number of animals, re-enact the Passion of Christ at 12 noon and 1515hrs. Further performances are planned in various towns and cities around the UK with details at: www.onegoodfriday.com

20th March 2022

Lunchtime Prayers for Ukraine:

If you are shopping in Newbury on weekdays, be aware that between 12.30-1.30pm from Mon 21st March until Easter at St. Nicholas’ Church, an hour of quiet prayer for Ukraine will take place – prayer cards and resources available. 10 minutes of prayers will be led aloud at 1pm. This is an initiative of CTNA (Churches Together in Newbury Area). All welcome.

Saturday 26th March: 10.00am-12 noon

First Holy Communion Programme Preparation in St Joseph’s Hall for all those children enrolled in this year’s programme. Please be sure to attend! The children will also be expected to attend, and participate at, the 11.00am Mass next Sunday 27th March – Mothering Sunday.

Sunday 27th March: Second Collection (Clergy Assistance Fund)

This is a (mandatory) Second Collection for the diocesan Clergy Assistance Fund, taken next Sunday. The Fund resources the work of the Department for Clergy Team responsible for looking after the welfare, ongoing formation and personal support of our clergy, from ordination to retirement. The Diocesan Fund supports 70 diocesan clergy in active ministry, 47 from religious orders, the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham or overseas, and 53 retired, who serve our parishes, chaplaincies, schools, outreach and mission. The Fund is reliant on your generosity to do this. You can also donate on-line from Monday 21st March to Sat 1st April at: https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/campaign/clergy-assistance-fund

Praying the Rosary.

The Rosary is prayed after the 10.00am. Mass on the first Friday of each month.

EASTER CARDS

There will be Easter cards for sale in the hall after the 11.00 Mass on Sunday 27th March, and then also for the following two Sundays - 3rd & 10th April.

Friday 25th March:

The Annunciation of the Lord. Today, at his General Audience, Pope Francis will consecrate Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

13th March 2022

CAFOD Family Fast Day Lent Appeal –

Please remember to return your appeal envelopes at Masses today – or next Sunday at the latest. CAFOD has committed £100,000 from this particular appeal to support its sister Caritas agencies working in Ukraine and surrounding countries. Your small act of love this Lent will make a big difference to many displaced communities affected by extreme hunger and children suffering from malnutrition. Remember you can also donate by visiting the CAFOD website (cafod.org.uk/lent), and you can donate directly for Ukraine at CAFOD’s Ukraine-specific appeal at www.cafod.org.uk/News/Emergencies-news/Ukraine-crisis

WORSHIP FOR PEACE IN UKRAINE -

Thursday, March 17th 7pm. The Catholic churches within the West Berks Pastoral Area (ourselves, Wash Common, and Thatcham) are gathering next Thursday, March 17th, at 7pm at St. Joseph's Church to pray for peace in the Ukraine. All 3 parish priests will be in attendance to lead us in Benediction, Adoration, and the Holy Rosary. Prayer is our most powerful weapon, especially when we all gather together to intercede. Please do come along and pray for much needed peace.

THE FEAST OF ST JOSEPH (Sunday 20th March)

– transferred from 19th March). The month of March by custom is devoted to St. Joseph - and we look forward to marking our Parish Patronal Feast Day on 20th March. Pope Francis dedicated last year to St Joseph in commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the saint’s proclamation as the Patron of the Universal Church by Pope Pius IX on 8th December, 1870. We have many reasons to invoke him in our prayers. One traditional prayer that you may or may not be familiar with is the Litany of St. Joseph. It was approved for public use by Pope St. Pius X in 1909, although its origins go back further. It contains twenty-five invocations expressing the virtues and dignity of St. Joseph. We will pray the Litany at Mass next Sunday.

THANK YOU

to all who either organised, or attended, our recent Parish Quiz Night & Fish and Chip Supper. It was a very successful and enjoyable evening which raised more than £500 for the parish coffers!

UPDATE ON THE SYNOD 2021-23.

At the Council of Priests last week, Fr. John Chandler gave an update on how the Synod consultations had gone in the Diocese. Over 3,000 responses from 76 parishes have come in. All the universities submitted responses, plus many schools where meetings of staff, students and parents have taken place. Three ecumenical groups met and some replies mention the presence of non-practising Catholics. His consultation is now almost complete and Fr John has organised a team of volunteers to analyse the data in a professional and unbiased manner, with the support of Professor Tim Caine. It will include the themes that have arisen from the many comments and insights from the synod discussions. A final report will be presented on behalf of the Diocese to Bishop Philip at the Chrism Mass in Holy Week, on 12th April, with all the clergy in attendance. It will then be published across the diocesan communication channels and submitted to the Bishops’ Conference shortly afterwards so that our diocesan perspective can be reflected in the final document that the Bishops’ Conference submit to Rome, representing the discussions that have taken place across the whole of England and Wales.

You can see St Joseph’s parish own consolidated points that our different groups/individuals submitted via the link on our parish web-site. Click here to view the document.

6th March 2022

PARISH PLATINUM JUBILEE GARDEN PARTY – SUNDAY 5th JUNE (PENTECOST SUNDAY) –

Our Parish Lunch/Garden Party will follow the 11.00am Mass. N.B. In a change of approach from what was stated in last Sunday’s newsletter, families will be encouraged to bring their own picnic lunch on this day - to avoid any issues and dangers around food allergies. The long Platinum Jubilee Bank Holiday Weekend this year is a 4 day long weekend from Thursday 2nd - Sunday 5th June. Ideas and volunteers are welcome to assist with the event.

Friday 11th March. CAFOD Family Fast Day Lent Appeal

Appeal envelopes will be distributed at Masses today – please return next Sunday. 11th March is a day when we eat simply and give generously to support families around the world with expert training in growing and making healthy food. CAFOD has committed £100,000 from this particular appeal to support its sister Caritas agencies working in Ukraine and surrounding countries. Your small act of love this Lent will make a big difference to many displaced communities affected by extreme hunger and children suffering from malnutrition. You can also donate by visiting the CAFOD website (cafod.org.uk/lent). CAFOD have also launched a Ukraine-specific on-line appeal at www.cafod.org.uk/News/Emergencies-news/Ukraine-crisis

THE SYNOD 2021-23.

My thanks to those of you who reflected upon the Synod 10 Questions about the future of the Church. You can see the consolidated points that our different groups/individuals from St Joseph’s submitted via the link on our parish web-site. - Click here to view the document.

This has now been sent on to Fr John Chandler to inform the wider diocesan response.

Douai Abbey Lenten Reflection Days:

This Lent, Douai Abbey are offering a number of Saturday reflection days and also two weekend retreats as part of their pastoral programme. Leaflets offering details are available in church today. Bookings can be made online at www.douaiabbey.org.uk/bookings.php Any other enquiries about the Pastoral Programme should be directed to Fr Peter Bowe by calling 0118 971 5333. All Reflection Days will run from 10.30am to 4pm (with arrivals and coffee from 10am). A contribution of £25 (or what you can afford) is requested to be made on the day which includes lunch and coffee.

‘Planned Giving’.

Packets of Planned Giving Envelopes for the new Tax Year starting in April 2022 are available for collection from Philip Hobbs. Anyone who would like to sign up to this for the first time should also see Philip. The benefit of this method is that the Parish can claim back 25% on all offerings from Standing Orders or Planned Giving provided that we have a completed ‘Gift Aid Form’ which can be supplied for you to fill out.

Thursday 10th March, 6pm - 8 pm.

Bishop Philip invites everyone to join him for an on-line conference. The topic: ‘A Deeper Understanding of Welcome’. The event is organised by Liza Nahajski, Leader of the diocese’s Ananias and Intercession (Pre-Discipleship) Team, Clare Simpson and the Bishop. It will explore ideas and inspiration on how to reach out to and welcome everyone to life in Jesus Christ and the community of His Church. It is open to everyone but will be especially appropriate to those involved in the Ministry of Welcome, church greeters, those supporting adults and parents of children in sacramental programmes, small group leaders and parish leadership teams. The topics include: hospitality; meeting people where they are; the gift of listening; and accompaniment. Some parishes will share what they are doing to welcome those on the margins, the digital audience, those who are isolated and those who are hard to reach, recognising welcome is not limited to the church door on a Sunday. Join on Zoom on Thursday 10th March 2022 6-8pm. Register (free) at www.ticketsource.co.uk/booking/select/yZvsqefNjuoG and for more details, contact Liza on lnahajski@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk.

27th February 2022

Wednesday 2nd March. ASH WEDNESDAY.

Masses: 10.00am and 7.00pm. Today marks the start of Lent, a season of personal and communal conversion and renewal. In Lent the whole Church accompanies Jesus on his journey to Jerusalem and to his Death and Resurrection. In Him, we die to sin; in Him we rise to life. Lent reminds us that the Christian life is an unending combat in which the weapons of prayer, fasting and penance are used as we die to self in order to live in God. This is the ascetic journey every Christian disciple is called to make with humility, generosity, and perseverance. Ash Wednesday is a Day of Fasting and Abstinence. Fasting means reducing considerably the amount of food we eat (e.g. having just one substantial meal), and abstinence means abstaining from eating meat. The law of fasting applies to anyone aged 18-60. The law of abstinence applies to those who are over 14 (cf. CIC 1252).

Friday 4th March: WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER 2022.

A short service for the Newbury area will be held at 10.30 am at St Mary the Virgin Church, Church Road, Shaw, Newbury RG14 2DR. All are welcome and refreshments will available afterwards. This year the Prayer Service has been prepared by the Christian Women of England, Wales and Northern Ireland and takes as its theme 'I know the plans I have for you'.

Saturday 5th March, 10.00am-12 noon:

First Learning Session for children enrolled in the First Holy Communion Preparation Programme. Venue – St Joseph’s Parish Hall.

‘Planned Giving’.

Packets of Planned Giving Envelopes for the new Tax Year starting in April 2022 can be collected at the end of both Masses today from Philip Hobbs. Anyone who would like to sign up to this for the first time should also see Philip. The benefit of this method is that the Parish can claim back 25% on all offerings from Standing Orders or Planned Giving provided that we have a completed ‘Gift Aid Form’ which can be supplied for you to complete.

CAFOD Family Fast Day Lent Appeal– Friday 11th March. -

CAFOD Family Fast Day Lent Appeal is Friday 11th March, a day when we eat simply and give generously to support families around the world with expert training in growing and making healthy food. Your small act of love this Lent will make a big difference to many communities affected by extreme hunger and children suffering from malnutrition. You can donate in church using a CAFOD envelope or by visiting the CAFOD website (cafod.org.uk/lent).

PARISH PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES – 4th to 8th JULY 2022.

The cost is £595 per person sharing. Single supplement £33 per night. Cost includes direct flight to Lourdes, transfers, full board at the Hotel Agena and airport assistance where required. Please contact Anne Paice by email on annepaice62@yahoo.co.uk

PARISH PLATINUM JUBILEE GARDEN PARTY – SUNDAY 5th JUNE (PENTECOST SUNDAY) –

Our Parish Lunch/Garden Party will follow the 11.00am Mass. Lists will be issued to state what dish of food or what drink you will contribute (savoury/salad/sweet/drink) to ensure a good spread and balance of shared offerings. The long Platinum Jubilee Bank Holiday Weekend this year is a 4 day long weekend from Thursday 2nd - Sunday 5th June. Ideas and volunteers are welcome to assist with the event.

20th February 2022

SYNOD 2021-2023. DEADLINE DATE FOR RETURNS – SUNDAY 27th FEBRUARY.

If you have completed the Synod Question Template following discussion in your family or with a group, please be aware that this date is the very latest to hand in your reflections to Fr Michael for him to compile a consolidated return to Fr John Chandler by 1st March. We are being asked by Pope Francis to listen and to reflect deeply and prayerfully on the future Church and our role. The 10 questions address the broad theme: ‘What changes need to be made – in myself, in our parish and in the Diocese – to make the church’s mission today more vibrant and effective?’ Our diocesan return will inform a national response summarised by the Bishops’ Conference of England & Wales, which will be sent to Rome.

3 Dates/Events for your Diary:

CTNA (Churches Together in Newbury Area) ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING. Sunday 27th February 2022, at 6pm, at St Nicholas’ Church, Newbury. (Followed by refreshments). CTNA comprises representation from many different churches in Newbury who are attempting in cooperation with one another to give better collective Christian witness to our faith in the area. Please consider attending alongside Fr Michael in order to help heighten our profile as part of CTNA. There is also the opportunity for us to have a parish display after the AGM in St Nicholas’ Church Hall where the refreshments will be offered. Anyone willing to help put one together?

WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER – Friday 4th March 2022. A short service for the Newbury area will be held at St Mary the Virgin Church, Church Road, Shaw, Newbury RG14 2DR. The service starts at 10.30am. All are welcome and refreshments will be available afterwards. This year the Prayer Service has been prepared by the Christian Women of England, Wales and Northern Ireland and takes as its theme 'I know the plans I have for you'.

CAFOD Family Fast Day Lent Appeal – Friday 11th March. - CAFOD Family Fast Day Lent Appeal is Friday 11th March, a day when we eat simply and give generously to support families around the world with expert training in growing and making healthy food. Your small act of love this Lent will make a big difference to many communities affected by extreme hunger and children suffering from malnutrition. You can donate in church using a CAFOD envelope or by visiting the CAFOD website (cafod.org.uk/lent).

13th February 2022

OFFERTORY COLLECTION PARISH DONATIONS –

You will not be surprised to learn that church offertory financial contributions have taken a very significant hit due to the pandemic and to periods of church closure and greatly reduced congregation size. The impact on parish finances is worrying – the average Sunday collection total is now only about 60-70% compared to what it was 2 years ago.

With changes to COVID church protocols, a normal offertory collection resumes from this Sunday. Please be as generous as you can. Fr Michael and members of the Parish Finance Committee will be addressing the parish about this issue soon at Sunday Mass

Date for the Diary: CTNA (Churches Together in Newbury Area) ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING.

Sunday 27th February 2022, at 6pm, at St Nicholas’ Church, Newbury. (Followed by refreshments). CTNA comprises representation from many different churches in Newbury who are attempting in cooperation with one another to give better collective Christian witness to our faith in the area. Please consider attending alongside Fr Michael in order to help heighten our profile as part of CTNA. There is also the opportunity for us to have a parish display after the AGM in St Nicholas’ Church Hall where the refreshments will be offered. Anyone willing to help put one together?

LOURDES 2022 -

We are proposing a Parish Pilgrimage to Lourdes from Monday 4th July until Friday 8th July. Cost £595 per person sharing. Single supplement £33 per night. Cost includes direct flight to Lourdes, transfers, full board at the Hotel Agena and airport assistance where required. For those requiring further information or who wish to join the Pilgrimage, please contact Anne Paice by e mail on annepaice62@yahoo.co.uk or leave your name and phone number at the Parish Office on 01635 40167.

PARENTS’ MEETING FOR THE FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PROGRAMME – Thursday 17th February 7.00pm:

St Joseph’s Parish Hall. All parents of children who have been enrolled in this year’s First Holy Communion Preparation Programme should attend this meeting to meet the Catechist Team and to learn about the forthcoming Programme. The meeting should hopefully not exceed one hour.

6th February 2022

A PARISH PLATINUM JUBILEE GARDEN PARTY?

The long Platinum Jubilee Bank Holiday Weekend this year is a 4 day long weekend from Thursday 2nd - Sunday 5th June. The Sunday is Pentecost Sunday. It would be good to mark this historic Jubilee with a parish celebration – perhaps a Garden Party at the Church? If this idea has your support, we should start planning for it now. Ideas and volunteers are welcome. Please start the conversation!

Sunday 6th February – PLATINUM JUBILEE.

Today marks the 70th Anniversary of the death of HM King George VI, and is therefore the 70th (Platinum) Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth’s accession to the throne in 1952. We give thanks today, and during the coming year, for the example of dutiful service that Her Majesty has given to the nation and the Commonwealth, and pray that God will bless her with continued good health as we mark this extraordinary milestone.

The Sick and Housebound.

If you know of anyone who would like to receive our prayers please inform Fr Michael via the parish telephone number or email address.

Quiz Night on Friday 4th March, 2022.

Entries to the quiz have now all sold out, a big thank you to everybody who has supported this popular event. Ted and Marion Shaw

29th January 2022

Need for volunteer readers at 08.30am Sunday Mass.

More readers are needed. Please make yourself known if willing. Readers perform a vital ministry for the parish and should always prepare their readings in advance of Mass, in order to read with fluency and understanding, so that the congregation can easily understand and follow the Word of God.

Tea & Coffee after 11.00am Sunday Mass.

Refreshments will resume after the 11.00am Mass each Sunday from today, 30th January. All are welcome. Rotas are available at the back of the church today for those who have volunteered to assist with this ministry of hospitality.

The Sick and Housebound.

We wish to update the list of parish sick and housebound. If you know of anyone who would like to continue receiving our prayers please inform Fr Michael, otherwise names will be removed. Similarly, if you know of anyone who would like to receive our prayers and they are not on the list to please contact him via the parish telephone number or email address

Mill Hill Missionaries (Red box collections)

Many thanks to Phyllis Smith who has looked after this fundraising activity within St Joseph’s. This work helps to fund missionary projects around the world. A new volunteer, however, is needed to take on this role from Phyllis. The role involves receiving and counting the money collected in each red box (approx. 5-10 boxes per month) and depositing the revenue into the APF – Mill Hill bank account. Please let Fr Michael or Chris Bartlam know if you can help. Thank you.

Quiz Night on Friday 4th March, 2022.

Entries to the quiz have now all sold out, a big thank you to everybody who has supported this popular event. Ted and Marion Shaw

Knock Pilgrimage: 14th – 18th March 2022.

A 4-night pilgrimage to Knock is taking place especially for parishioners of the Portsmouth Diocese commencing Monday 14th March. For details contact: Patricia Ronane at knockpilgrimages@gmail.com

23rd January 2022

Sunday 23rd January - Second Collection for St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth.

This collection is the only support our Cathedral receives annually from the wider diocesan family. Appeal envelopes are available at all Masses for those who do not have gift aided planned giving envelopes for second collections – where possible please complete the Gift Aid statement.

Alternatively, a ‘Give as you Live’ page has been created at: https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/cathedral-annual-appeal-1

A VERY BIG THANK YOU FROM THE SVP.

Dear fellow parishioners thanks to your wonderful generosity our Christmas appeal raised £25,915.On behalf of those in need who will seek help and support during the coming year please accept our sincere thanks.

SYNOD 2021-2023.

You may have seen information in our newsletter from Fr John Chandler on this initiative of Pope Francis. We are being asked to listen and to reflect deeply and prayerfully on the future Church and our role. To begin this consultation Pope Francis is inviting us to reflect on 10 questions around the broad theme: ‘What changes need to be made – in myself, in our parish and in the Diocese – to make the church’s mission today more vibrant and effective?’ Our thoughts will be fed back into a consolidated diocesan response, which – in turn – will inform a national response summarised by the Bishops’ Conference of England & Wales, which will be sent to Rome.

Parishioners are encouraged to meet in small groups to look at the questions and formulate their brief responses which Fr Michael will summarise and send to Fr Chandler by the deadline of 1st March. If interested, please ask Fr Michael for the Question Template to complete. Responses will need to be concise and brief. Alternatively, you are welcome to contact Fr Chandler directly via jchandler@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

16th January 2022

New Parish Email Address:

Please note that in order to comply with diocesan policy we are now obliged to change our parish email contact address in order to synchronise with the Portsmouth Diocesan IT system and its protocols.

The new email is: office@stjosephsnewbury.org.uk Please cease using the old email address (parishpriest@stjosephsnewbury.org.uk).

Be assured, however, that for a period of time emails sent to the old address will auto-forward to the new email address inbox and will not be lost!

Sunday 23rd January - Second Collection for St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth.

This collection is the only support our Cathedral receives annually from the wider diocesan family. Appeal envelopes are available at all Masses for those who do not have gift aided planned giving envelopes for second collections – where possible please complete the Gift Aid statement.

Alternatively, a ‘Give as you Live’ page has been created at: https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/cathedral-annual-appeal-1

West Berks Foodbank – An Urgent Appeal.

They are urgently in need of basic items, which include tinned meals, tinned vegetables, tinned fish, tinned soups, sponge puddings, tinned fruit, baked beans, coffee, biscuits, instant mash, pasta sauce cup-a-soups, ketchup, long life fruit juice, UHT milk, sugar, healthy snacks, lunch box treats, shower gel, shampoo, non-bio washing powder. Donations of money can be made through the website:
www.westberks.foodbank.org.uk

The Food Bank is currently feeding over 600 people per week, 3 times as many as in May. Many people find it easier to leave donations in the Foodbank boxes at the supermarkets and that is great.

Advance Notice.

Quiz Night on Friday 4th March, 2022 at 7pm St Josephs Church Hall, tickets £12 pp which includes a fish/ chicken and chip supper, all tickets must be booked and paid for before 1st March. Quiz Teams: 6 people per team. Please bring your own alcohol and soft drinks, plus reusable wine/beer glass.

For tickets contact: Ted Shaw: email: shawejj@gmail.com

Octave of Prayer for Christian Unity: 18th – 25th January.

The annual week of prayer for Christian unity begins on Tuesday 18Th January. We are encouraged to pray together and through our prayers come trust, friendship, and the desire to work together. The late Cardinal Hume once said that Christians “should not do apart that which we can do together” – and this should be our default approach to so many of the pastoral issues that face all our communities. We need to recognise our differences, but there is much that unites us and allows us to work and pray together. This will enable us to be more open to the spiritual gifts that flow from a greater engagement with our fellow Christians. Christian Unity cannot be a “side-issue” – it is central to the very nature of the Church. Jesus prayed “that they may all be one” – and he linked his prayer to the mission that he had given them, “so that the world may believe” (John 17:21). Vatican II lamented that this unity had fragmented, noting that division among Christian communities “openly contradicts the will of Christ [and] scandalizes the world” and Saint John Paul II in his encyclical Ut unum sint, told us that “the quest for Christian unity is not a matter of choice or expediency, but a duty which springs from the very nature of the Christian community”.