sacredheartwithstphiliphoward

Server of the Month

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 21:44:42 GMT

March

We have a three-way tie! Well done to Samantha, Samara

and Sean who have been awarded the Green Cincture of Honour for the coming month (April).

PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 14:59:17 GMT

“GOING ON PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES”

Saturday 9th May 2pm. St Philip Howard Hall.

An Information Afternoon on the story of St BernadeƩe and the Shire of Lourdes. We will take you though a typical pilgrimage, and depending on your personal needs you can decide which of the following pilgrimage options suits you.

DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE WITH BISHOP PHILIP

Monday 6th - Friday 10th July ‘26 From Heathrow. £949 per person for a shared room. Youth pilgrims £895 Please contact: Cn. P.J. Smith 07780 221 686 or by post to St. Edmunds House, Bp Crispian Way, Portsmouth. PO1 3QA

CATHOLIC ASSOCIATION PILGRIMAGE

Friday 21st - Friday 28th August 2026 Visit: www.catholicassociation.co.uk A medically enhanced pilgrimage for Assisted Pilgrims or come as a Young Pilgrim Helper. For over a hundred years the CA’s mission has been to make pilgrimage possible for all, (Cn John is staying at the Hotel Eliseo). Jumbulance travel available too. Chartered flights with Tangney Tours

Divine Mercy Sunday

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 08:52:13 GMT

DIVINE MERCY CHAPLET Sun 12th Apr 3pm. Sacred Heart Church

A prayer of intercession, asking for God’s mercy for oneself and the whole world. Jesus promised great mercy for those who recite this chaplet, especially at the hour of death.

PRAYER WALKS

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 21:41:04 GMT

The next prayer walk from St Philip Howard church is scheduled for Monday 13th April setting off at 10am. All are welcome.

The walks from St Philip Howard church are going to be on the second Monday of each month, at 10am. This new time and date each month was chosen by regular walkers.

Details from David ( davidcockshoot@gmail.com )

AMENDMENTS TO MASS on Sunday 12th April

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 21:39:24 GMT

Please note that there is an error in the most recent newsletter distributed on 2nd April:

Divine Mercy Chaplet will take place at 3pm at Sacred Heart Church and not at St Philip Howard church.

6pm Mass will take place at St Philip Howard church as usual and not Sacred Heart church.

‘He is Risen!’ ‘He is risen indeed!’

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 09:52:43 GMT

A warm welcome to all family and friends visiting our community for the Easter holidays. Wishing you all a very Happy and Holy Easter. You are all welcome here! Whether you are joining us for the first time or returning after some time away, we are glad you are here. Your presence is a reminder that the Church is always a place of invitation, encounter, and belonging. We hope you feel at home among us. You will see from this Newsletter there are lots of groups in our Parish and ways to get involved and we pray you find a place of belonging here.

As we reflect this week on the Resurrection, we are drawn again to the heart of our faith: that life triumphs over death, light over darkness, and hope over despair. The Resurrection is not only an event we remember, but a living reality that continues to shape our lives. It speaks to us in our own moments of uncertainty and struggle, reminding us that no situation is beyond God’s power to renew.

The risen Christ meets us where we are - often quietly, gently - and invites us to see with new eyes. Just as the disciples moved from fear to faith, we too are called to trust that even in the most ordinary or difficult circumstances, new life is possible.

May this week be an opportunity to notice signs of resurrection around you: in acts of kindness, in reconciliation, in small beginnings, and in renewed hope. And may we each carry that hope to others, becoming witnesses of the joy and promise of the risen Lord.

Our Church celebrations these last few days would not be possible without the commitment and hard work of a lot of people. A big thank you to all who have prepared and given so much for our Triduum celebrations.

I hope and pray that our Lent and Holy Week services have brought you blessings in some way and may God bless you all in the days ahead.

Cn. John

Rest In Peace

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 08:51:12 GMT

REST IN PEACE ‘Life is changed not ended’

Please pray for Zita Falstein RIP who died recently. Her Requiem will be Fri 17th April at 10.30am, St P.Howard Ch.

Please pray for members of our community who have died since Easter last year:

Teresa Bevis RIP, Veronica Gaoua RIP, Peter Aspin RIP, Linda Taylor RIP, Susan Griffiths RIP, Julie Nally RIP, Jasmine Ward RIP, Marguerita Fothergill RIP, Rose Harrison RIP, Margaret McMahon RIP, Stephen Young RIP, Jim McGiveron RIP, Ken Burrows RIP, David Kelly RIP, Alan Taylor RIP.

May they rest in peace and enjoy resurrection glory!

You may wish to use this farewell chant;

May Saints and Angels lead you on

escorting you where Christ has gone.

Now He has called to you, come to Him

who sits above the seraphim.

Come to the peace of Abraham.

Come to the supper of the Lamb.

Come to the glory of the blessed

and perpetual light and rest.

Amen.

Easter Joy - Baptism, Eucharist, Confirmation,

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 17:04:36 GMT

EASTER JOY!

Baptism, Conﬁrmation and Eucharist

After a long time of discussion, discernment and prayer we look forward to welcoming Harry, Tom, Jackie, Rob, Tom, Kerry, Rob, Rebecca, and David into full communion and the sacramental life of the Church at the Easter Vigil! We also welcome Ron who will be Conﬁrmed at the Vigil.

We also have the joy of the baptism of Charlie who has been on the RCIC journey of faith for the last few months.

And we welcome with joy Freya and Oliver who are being baptised on Divine Mercy Sunday.

A big thank you to the RCIA team, Conﬁrmation, Baptism

and RCIC team who have been journeying with them.

A MESSAGE FROM BISHOP PHILIP

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 18:48:41 GMT

Message from Bishop Philip Egan to the Clergy and Laity of the Diocese on the House of Lords

vote on the Crime and Policing Bill, March 2026

Sycamore Adult Pathway in Faith

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 22:11:26 GMT

SYCAMORE ADULT PATHWAY IN FAITH

Wednesdays 7pm Church for time of prayer, then 7.15pm in Sacred Heart Hall for hospitality and topic. Finish c. 9pm

Looking for answers about the Catholic faith? All welcome.

Contact Dcn Larry: lmurawski@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

UNION OF CATHOLIC MOTHERS ‘UCM’ MEETING

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 21:53:01 GMT

Every other Monday, 7pm. Sacred Heart Hall

Next meeting: 30th March . From 7pm for coffee/tea. With the meeting starting at 7.30pm.

All are very welcome. For more info contact: lornefry1954@hotmail.com

Ladies Fellowship Group

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 21:23:29 GMT

LADIES’ GROUP -

Second Weds 7.30pm. St P. Howard Hall

Come and see! Getting to know each other, sharing our faith, and growing deeper in our relationship with the Lord. Every woman is so welcome - no age limit applies. Contact Eloise at: eloise@olimcomms.com

SVP

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 19:55:56 GMT

PARISH ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY (SVP)

The SVP are here to provide help, friendship and comfort. Everything we do is in strict confidence.

Call us on 07435 880 190 any day between 8am & 6pm

EASTER COLLECTION

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 19:15:41 GMT

Catholic tradition holds that the Easter offerings are, if you wish, your opportunity for a personal gift to the priest and are the main source of annual income for him. Offerings can be BACS, cash/cheque with the reference “Easter Offering” or you can use the Dona plates in both churches.

ALTAR SERVER PRACTICE

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 19:14:09 GMT

Servers’ Practices for The Triduum

Holy Tues 31st Mar 5pm Maundy Thursday & Good Friday Spy Weds 1st Apr. 5pm The Easter Vigil

You must be at the practice if you wish to help at that Liturgy. A big thank you to our senior servers, and sacristans looking after our wonderful team of servers

JESUS YOUTH TEAM

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 19:02:30 GMT

14-HOUR VIGIL OF ADORATION - SACRED HEART CH.

Fri 27th Mar 6pm - Sat 28th Mar 8am

We think this would be a wonderful way of taking time out to pray for peace. Adoration. Please let us know (via the Parish office) if you are able to spend some time (an hour?) in Adoration. Lisha and Nins Chiramal are organising with the Youth group.

Many thanks - see you there!

Baptism Preparation

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 14:13:59 GMT

Please visit www.catholicchurchfareham.org.uk/baptism

Please visit the parish website for details and to register online. Why not take part while “still expecting”?

Next PreparaƟon Pathway dates commences in May .

HOLY WEEK CHOIR

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 13:58:35 GMT

Singers are invited to join our choir to lead the singing on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil. Practices will be held at St Philip Howard Church on Thursday evening at 7.30pm, 26th March. Volunteers are already in place for the Psalms, but singers for the Mass and hymns would be very welcome. For more information please contact; davidcockshoot@gmail.com.

MENS’ GROUP

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 12:59:26 GMT

MEN’S GROUP

First Wednesdays, 7.30pm at St Philip Howard Hall

A confidential, prayer and fellowship group helping us to be the best husbands, fathers, brothers and sons we can be.

Contact Tom at: tom_fairman@yahoo.com

Bible study - Feasting on the Word of God

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 10:55:10 GMT

“FEASTING ON THE WORD OF GOD”

Friday 11.15am in Sacred Heart Hall

Scripture: Isaiah 53.4 “Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows”

Lent Appeal

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 23:47:14 GMT

LENT APPEAL www.portsmouthdsa.org

PORTSMOUTH DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION

Portsmouth DSA is an award-winning charity committed to improving the lives of children and families.

We provide a range of some of the best specialist services in the UK supporting development and education and offer training to assist families and professionals in providing effective support from the point of diagnosis, helping to teach children the skills they need to reach their developmental milestones, succeed at school, and become valued and productive members of their communities. When children with Down Syndrome are given opportunities to participate and be fully included, the whole community benefits. We thank you for your support.

Lent Devotions

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 22:54:13 GMT

LENT DEVOTIONS

Stations of the Cross

Sunday 22nd March - 4pm Immaculate Conception, Stubbington where our Chosen youth will lead the Stations.

Friday 27th March - 9.15am before Mass

Thursdays 7am Dawn Mass Sacred Heart Church

A simple Mass followed by a lovely breakfast in the Hall hosted by the UCM supporƟng our Lent Appeal

CHURCH CLEANING

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 22:01:21 GMT

CHURCH CLEANING SPH

Thursday 2nd April at 8.30am and/or Saturday 4th April in the morning (time to be confirmed)

Please contact the parish office or just turn up!

Christians Together

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 21:38:56 GMT

GOOD FRIDAY 3rd April Fareham.

Service of Witness; 10:15am. West Street Podium. All are welcome! Free hot cross buns.

Portchester.

Walk of Witness; 9:45am in Precinct

EUCHARSITIC ADORATION OF THE REAL PRESENCE OF OUR LORD IN THE BLESSED SACRAMENT

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 19:44:19 GMT

Tuesdays, 10:30am - 12 noon Sacred Heart Church

Come & be with Our Lord, even if only for a few moments. Essential for growing in a personal relationship with Christ.

HOLY HOUR FOR VOCATIONS - ‘… ask the Lord.’ Mt 9:38

Thursdays, 7.30pm - 8.30pm at Sacred Heart Church

Please come and pray for workers in the Lord’s vineyard.

HOLY WEEK & TRIDUUM

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 19:24:49 GMT

Palm Sunday

Blessing of the Palms and Passion Gospel

There will be a second collection for the Easter Flowers

6.30pm Vigil No palm procession.

9am Mass Gather on the pavement by the railings of the Sacred Heart Church (facing the Bus Station) We’ll process into our Church via the Foyer.

11am Mass Gather in the Hall. We’ll process via hall exit into our Church via the Foyer.

6pm Mass No palm procession

Holy Tuesday

Chrism Mass - Mass of the Sacred Oils

11am St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth

All are very welcome for this important gathering of the Diocese in the Cathedral, with the Bishop and his Clergy renewing their Ordination promises. Do try and join us!

The Solemn Blessing of the Oils; of Catechumens, the Sick and consecration of the Oil of Chrism for our community.

Maundy Thursday

At St Philip Howard Church

7:30pm Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper

Procession of the Oils, Washing of the Feet, The Eucharist, and procession of the Bl. Sacrament taken from the Church.

Watching - Altar of Repose in the Hall.

Night Prayer at c. 10.30pm

Good Friday

9am Stations of the Cross - Sacred Heart Church.

9.45am Walk of Witness - in Precinct

10:15am Service of Witness - West St. Podium.

3pm Passion of Our Lord

At St Philip Howard Church

Holy Saturday

At Sacred Heart Church

9.30am Office of Readings & Morning Prayer

Święnconka - Blessing of the Easter Baskets

10am - Immaculate Conception Church, Stubbington

The Resurrection of the Lord

8pm The Easter Vigil

At St Philip Howard Church The New Fire, Blessing of Paschal Candle, Sequence, Liturgy of Light, Scripture readings, Blessing of Water, Renewal of Baptismal Promises, IniƟaƟons, Confirmation and Eucharist. Reception in Hall afterwards!

Easter Sunday

9am Dawn Mass - Sacred Heart Church

11am Day Mass - St Philip Howard Church

CHOCOLATE TOMBOLA

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:03:35 GMT

CHOCOLATE TOMBOLA

150th Refurbishment Fund.

On Palm Sunday a tombola will be held with money raised going towards our Sacred Heart 150th Refurbishment Fund. Please can you consider donating chocolate eggs, bars or sweets? All donations to the office by Fri 27th Mar please.

ALTAR OF REPOSE GARDEN - VOLUNTEERS PLEASE!

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:04:54 GMT

Help is needed to set up on Mon 30th March, 10.30am at St Philip Howard Church Hall. Please just turn up, thank you.

Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confessions)

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:00:43 GMT

SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION - CONFESSIONS

Fareham

¨ Thursday 26th March: 10am - 11am.

¨ 1st Saturdays: 10am - 11am.

2nd, 3rd, 4th Saturdays: 5pm - 6pm.

Stubbington

¨ Tuesday 6pm - 6.45pm

¨ Saturday 4pm - 5.45pm

¨ After all weekday Masses

Park Gate

¨ Saturday 5pm - 6pm

¨ Other days by appointment

Gosport

¨ Wednesday 6.15pm - 6.45pm

¨ Saturday 12 Noon - 1pm

STELLA MARIS EASTER EGG APPEAL

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 14:52:27 GMT

Please support the local Stella Maris Easter Egg Appeal by donating Easter Egg treats to seafarers in our local ports over Easter. Donations to the parish office by Mon 23rd March please.

A POST EASTER TREAT?

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 14:02:48 GMT

‘Chitty-Chitty Bang Bang’ !!

Our server and parishioner Daniel is making a debut at the Kings Theatre, Southsea, as liƩle Jeremy in ‘Chitty-Chitty Bang bang’ He will be performing in the following showings, if you can go and support him; Fri 10th & Sat 11th April at 1.30pm / Sun 12th April at 1pm Tues 14th, Thurs 16th, Fri 17th & Sat 18th April at 7pm

Parish Bereavement Bethany Group

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 10:32:09 GMT

PARISH BEREAVEMENT “BETHANY” GROUP

3rd Thursdays. 10am - Sacred Heart Hall.

For anyone who has lost a loved one. A warm, welcoming and safe space to be.

sacredheart.bethany@gmail.com

Little Treasures Toddler Group

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 09:51:18 GMT

LITTLE TREASURES’ TODDLER GROUP

Every Tuesday, 9:30am - 11am at St Philip Howard Hall

Just £1.50 for children to come and play with a lovely selection of toys and for carers to have a hot drink and biscuit. All are welcome.

Craft group

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 09:44:39 GMT

CRAFT & CHAT GROUP

Tuesdays from 1pm at Sacred Heart Church Hall

PARISH CATECHISTS’ FORMATION DAY – LENT ‘26

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 14:24:45 GMT

Saturday 14th March 9.30am - 3.30pm at St Philip Howard Led by Sr Hyacinthe OP.

www.lightoftruth.uk/courses

A date for the diary, please, for new and existing Catechists. We are very blessed to have the Dominican Sisters of Sway come to our Solent Pastoral Area and lead a formation day for us. It is the 3rd Saturday in Lent, a refreshing day of formation and prayer, as we seek to bring people to Christ. Refreshments throughout but please bring a packed lunch.

Altar Servers Team

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 21:41:39 GMT

February “Server of the Month”

Well done to Faith who has been awarded the Green Cincture of Honour for the coming month (March). Thank you to all the servers and their families for your support.

Holy Week Practices and Triduum Liturgies Please return your attendance forms to the Sacristy for jobs!

LENT LUNCHES

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 17:03:00 GMT

Christians Together in Portchester

Five Wednesdays commencing 25th February,

12 noon service. Methodist Ch, Castle Street, Portchester. Followed by a light lunch of soup, bread and cheese. Donations to CAFOD and Christian Aid.

Christians Together in Fareham

Five Thursdays starting 26th February,

12.15 to 1pm. Fareham URC Church, Osborne Road South. Homemade soup, bread, fruit, tea and coffee. Donations to Christian Aid.

Conversation Group

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 15:58:43 GMT

CONVERSATION GROUP

Every other Thurs, 2pm - 3.30pm, Sacred Heart Hall

Next meeting: 19th March.

Do you have APHASIA or communication difficulties afer a stroke? Come and join our friendly group. Donation of £2. For info. contact Angela at: amnally65@gmail.com

SECOND COLLECTION: CLERGY ASSISTANCE FUND

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 15:03:45 GMT

Sunday 15th March is the annual collection for the Clergy Assistance Fund. This helps support the Department for Clergy Team who are responsible for the welfare, ongoing formation and personal support of our clergy. They look after the junior clergy, the overseas clergy and especially the retired clergy. Donations can be cash, BACS or through the contactless card facility in the Church foyers.

MAUNDY THURSDAY: ALTAR OF REPOSE GUARDIANS

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 14:59:49 GMT

In order to faithfully keep watch with the Lord in the ‘Garden’, we need to ensure we have at least four Guardians of the Blessed Sacrament from c.9pm - 11pm. Please contact the parish office if you can volunteer for a 30 min slot or can keep vigil all evening.

ALTAR SERVER - JOHN MURPHY. FUND RAISING SWIM FOR CANCER RESEARCH UK AND MARIE CURIE

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 14:55:14 GMT

“Hi. My name is John and I am doing three 5k swims in 6 days during March. I want to help raise funds as my grandad died of skin cancer when I was younger, and I want to help to stop that happening to other people.

Last year I swam one 5k and raised about £1,000. This year I want more of a challenge! Thank you for taking the time to read about me.

Please come & cheer me on and donate to:

https://bit.ly/40xPsg9 .

Thank you”.

HOLY WEEK & TRIDUUM

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 14:52:55 GMT

Palm Sunday

Blessing of the Palms and Passion Gospel

There will be a second collection for the Easter Flowers

6.30pm Vigil No palm procession.

9am Mass Gather on the pavement by the railings of the Sacred Heart Church (facing the Bus Station) We’ll process into our Church via the Foyer.

11am Mass Gather in the Hall. We’ll process via hall exit into our Church via the Foyer.

6pm Mass No palm procession

Holy Tuesday

Chrism Mass - Mass of the Sacred Oils

11am St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth

All are very welcome for this important gathering of the Diocese in the Cathedral, with the Bishop and his Clergy renewing their Ordination promises. Do try and join us!

The Solemn Blessing of the Oils; of Catechumens, the Sick and consecration of the Oil of Chrism for our community.

Maundy Thursday At St Philip Howard Church

7:30pm Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper

Procession of the Oils, Washing of the Feet, The Eucharist, and procession of the Bl. Sacrament taken from the Church.

Watching - Altar of Repose in the Hall.

Night Prayer at c. 10.30pm

Good Friday

9am Stations of the Cross - Sacred Heart Church.

9.45am Walk of Witness - in Precinct

10:15am Service of Witness - West St. Podium.

3pm Passion of Our Lord At St Philip Howard Church

Holy Saturday At Sacred Heart Church

9.30am Office of Readings & Morning Prayer

Święnconka - Blessing of the Easter Baskets

10am - Immaculate Conception Church, Stubbington

The Resurrection of the Lord

8pm The Easter Vigil At St Philip Howard Church

The New Fire, Blessing of Paschal Candle, Sequence, Liturgy of Light, Scripture readings, Blessing of Water, Renewal of Baptismal Promises, Initiations, Confirmation and Eucharist. Reception in Hall afterwards!

Easter Sunday

9am Dawn Mass - Sacred Heart Church

11am Day Mass - St Philip Howard Church

THEOLOGY ON TAP

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 14:44:01 GMT

Friday 20th March 6:30pm. In the Discovery Centre Hall, St John’s Cathedral, Bishop Crispian Way, Portsmouth.

The speaker will be our very own Bishop Philip, whose topic will be: 'Can Catholic teaching change?' All are welcome!

GOSPORT SECTION OF THE CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE ANNUAL REVIEW

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 14:21:21 GMT

GOSPORT SECTION OF THE CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE

Weds 11th March 12.30pm

The Catholic Women’s league will be meeting at The Immaculate ConcepƟon Church, Stubbington for Stations of the Cross and their regular meeting. All ladies welcome, bring a packed lunch - contact Marguerite 01489 575 663

A BIG THANK YOU

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 13:55:36 GMT

A BIG THANK YOU From Cn. John and us all…

To our BEREAVEMENT TEAM for the support with the large number of funerals that we've had recently.

To our HEALTH AND SAFETY TEAM For their hard work signing off the necessary ‘Work Nest’ Audit for our two Church sites and liaising with our many Parish Groups (let alone the chore of the weekly checks). This has been a huge task, to say the least. Thank you all for your cooperaƟon with what has been asked by the Parish Team and the required checklists for this necessary part of Parish life that Cn John is legally responsible for.

LENT STUDY GROUPS: CTIF

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 17:05:18 GMT

‘What is this ‘good news’, and who is it for?’

The course starts in the week beginning 23rd Feb and runs for 5 weeks. Each aƩendee will receive the course book at the first session which will cost £5.00.

If you wish to join a group please contact Liz at: elizdunning@ntlworld.com by Friday 13th February.

LENT

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 16:48:51 GMT

Fasting The law of fasting requires that a Catholic between the ages of 18 - 60yrs eats only one full meal in a day, with no food in-between meals. It is understood that two other meals, if one eats three meals a day, should not total one full meal. Suggest one might fast in a more complete way, i.e., eating only a portion of a single meal. (CCC 2043)

Abstinence means not to eat meat. Its purpose is to be an act of sacrifice, that helps us grow in freedom to make much bigger sacrifices. It would not make sense to make the sacrifice of not eating meat, and then eat a wonderful meal I might enjoy even more.

Lent Devotions

Stations of the Cross and Benediction

* Wednesday & Friday, 9:15am before Mass

* Sundays, 4pm at Sacred Heart Church

A physical, mental and spiritual devotion, pondering the sufferings of Christ.

7am Dawn Mass Thursdays in Lent. Sacred Heart Church Starting on Thurs 19th February. A simple Mass followed by a lovely breakfast in the Hall hosted by the UCM supporting our Lent Appeal - Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association.

LENT READINGS

‘PRAYING WITH THE PSALMS’ Booklet

Daily companion as you walk with the Lord through the season of Lent. In just three meaningful minutes each day, you’ll be invited to lay down your burdens, open your heart to God’s mercy, and prepare your soul for the joy of Easter.

Available for you in the foyer of both churches. £2.50 each

AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST - APOLOGETICS PROJECT

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 16:39:38 GMT

A video series from the Archdiocese of Southwark helping you better understand your faith and confidently answer questions about Jesus and the Church.

Every Monday throughout 2026 , a new video answering a question, objection or myth will be posted on Southwark’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/RCSouthwark1

Doctrinal accuracy : Each script draws from a foundation of Scripture, primary Church Father documents, the Catechism and official Papal and Church teachings, to help you deepen your relationship with the Lord Jesus.

Subscribe : Each topic is available in audio form on channels such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Amazon Music.

VOCATIONS GROUP

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 14:35:09 GMT

www.portsmouthvocations.org

Contact Canon John at 01329 318 869 or Email: vocations@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

“Seeker Saturdays” Pray, Decide & Don’t Worry

Sat 28th Feb. 11am - 3pm at Sacred Heart Presbytery. Fellowship, discussion, Mass, hospitality, adoration.

For those with “that idea about the priesthood or religious life that won’t go away”. Come and see!

LENT. SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 13:47:08 GMT

Confession

An examination of conscience to help you ponder

Do I live for myself, or for God? Do I seek to do His will or my own? Do I pray regularly and attend Mass with devotion, or out of fear? Are there false gods in my heart - wealth, pleasure, or power? Have I misused God’s name or sworn falsely?

Do I make an effort to know and care for others, or limit my concern to family and a small circle? Does my life reflect the mission I received in confirmation, and what example of Christian living do I offer to friends and colleagues?

Do I see my work as service to others, or merely a means of earning money? Do I act honestly in my work, pay a fair wage, and honour my commitments?

Am I fulfilling my duties as a citizen and neighbour - voting, speaking on moral and social issues, helping the poor, visiting the sick? Have I caused loss, injury, or harm to others, through words or deeds, and have I sought to make restitution where possible?

Do I follow my conscience and seek its guidance through prayer? Have I sinned against my body through impurity or excess? Have I treated others merely as means to my own ends, or indulged in corrupting entertainment?

Do I harbour pride, self-love, or fear of human judgment? Do I endure trials, illness, and disappointment with patience, or give in to self-pity? Have I neglected my duƟes through laziness or indifference?

LENT CONFESSION - AN ACT OF CONTRITION

Lord Jesus, you opened the eyes of the blind,

healed the sick, forgave the sinful woman, and after Peter’s denial confirmed him in your love.

Listen to my prayer; forgive all my sins,

renew your love in my heart,

and help me to live in perfect unity with my fellow Christians that I may proclaim your saving power to all the world.

Amen.

PEG ‘PARISH ECOLOGY GROUP’

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 11:38:57 GMT

PARISH ECOLOGY GROUP ‘PEG’

Recycling Team meets on Tuesdays after 10am Mass

As we grow older, we continue supporting various initiatives. For 32 years, PEG has held monthly meetings with guest speakers and is part of Fareham Green Christians. If you’d like to get involved, please speak to Esme or John in the Hall after Mass — we warmly welcome younger members to join us.

CAFOD FAMILY FAST DAY

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 11:02:05 GMT

CAFOD FAMILY FAST DAY - Fri 27th February

www.cafod.org.uk/fundraise/family-fast-day

This Family Fast Day, we’re thinking about real hunger - not skipping a meal, but having nothing to eat at all. Across the world, drought and floods are destroying crops, leaving families without food. But there is hope.

With your support, CAFOD’s local experts are helping families adapt. In South Sudan and Bangladesh, floating gardens rise above floodwaters so families can grow food.

In Zimbabwe, Fast Day donations funded a solar-powered pump and drought-resistant eco-garden, turning dry land ferƟle. Shorai says, “A good neighbour is someone who helps in times of need.” This Lent, be that neighbour. Eat simply. Give generously. Help a family put food on the table.

You can give using the CAFOD envelopes which will be handed out or use the foyer Dona plates in both churches.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY LENT THEME

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:22:30 GMT

During the six weeks of Lent, the children will see a build-up theme over the six weeks of lent. The focus is on the Lent Journey using the 3 pillars (for children); Prayer, Kindness and Sharing.

There is a briefing letter for parents at www.lotwwc.org.uk/ChildrensLiturgyLent.pdf

The Children will take home a ‘Frame’ at the beginning of Lent, then an item each week (or to catch up). The table-size visual aid will remain in Sacred Heart hall throughout Lent; please do look. Click the QR code for the briefing.

PARISH 150th ANNIVERSARY - OPEN MEETING

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 16:25:25 GMT

Sat 14th February 2pm. St Philip Howard Hall

To start looking at ideas for celebrating our 150th in 2028. Please do come and let’s think about what we can do to thank God and Celebrate our Catholic Faith.

Altar Servers of the month

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 18:14:22 GMT

Well done to Sancta C ., who has been awarded the Green Cincture of Honour for the coming month (February). Above all, thank you to our wonderful team of servers.

LENT - THE RITE OF THE ELECT

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 16:50:17 GMT

Sat 21st February, 11am at the Cathedral

Please pray for our two Catechumens and ten Candidates being presented to the Bishop at the Rite of Election. Everyone is invited to witness this powerful moment.

CATECHISTS’ FORMATION DAY – LENT ‘26

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 16:36:29 GMT

Saturday 14th March 9.30am - 3.30pm at St Philip Howard

Led by Sr Hyacinthe OP. www.lightoftruth.uk/courses

A date for the diary, please, for all new and existing Catechists. We are very blessed to have the Dominican Sisters of Sway

come to our Solent Pastoral Area and lead a formation day for us.

It is the 3rd Saturday in Lent, a refreshing day of formation and prayer, as we seek to bring people to Christ.

CONFIRMATION PATHWAY - “CHOSEN”

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 13:38:37 GMT

‘CHOSEN’ CONFIRMATION PATHWAY

Next session: Fri 13th Feb. 7 - 8.30pm St Philip Howard Ch.

Portsmouth Vocations

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 10:43:10 GMT

PORTSMOUTH VOCATIONS www.portsmouthvocations.org

Contact Canon John at 01329 318 869 or Email: vocations@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

“Seeker Saturdays” Pray, Decide & Don’t Worry

Sat 28th Feb. 11am - 3pm at Sacred Heart Presbytery. Fellowship, discussion, Mass, hospitality adoration. For those with “that idea that won’t go away”. Come and see!

Lady's Group

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 10:39:36 GMT

LADIES’ GROUP

Second Wednesdays, 7.30pm at St Philip Howard Hall

Come and see! Getting to know each other, sharing our faith, and growing deeper in our relationship with the Lord. Every woman is so welcome - no age limit applies.

Contact Eloise at: eloise@olimcomms.com

Seeker Saturdays

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:50:36 GMT

PORTSMOUTH VOCATIONS www.portsmouthvocations.org

“SEEKER SATURDAYS"PRAY, DECIDE AND DON'T WORRY

Sat 28th Feb. 11am - 3pm at Sacred Heart Presbytery.

Fellowship, discussion, Mass, hospitality adoraƟon. For those with “that idea that won’t go away”. Come and see!

Please contact Cn John: 01329 318 869 or Email: vocations@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

LENT GROUPS Ecumenical Study Groups

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:22:13 GMT

A great blessing to the Christians of Fareham, enabling us to study and pray together, and make friends with people from churches other than our own.

We are looking for Hosts and Leaders . Groups can meet in the morning, afternoon or evening, any weekday for the 5 weeks of Lent. Able to help?

Please contact Liz Dunning: lent@farehamchristians.org.uk / 07879 685 556 by 11th February

THE PORTSMOUTH GREGORIAN CHANT COURSE

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:15:29 GMT

3 parts for Beginners and Advanced

2nd Saturdays of January, February and March 2026 St John's Cathedral, Portsmouth PO1 3HG

All welcome. For more information and to register visit https://portsmouthgregorianchant.blogspot.com

Tel. Neville McNally on 07424 371 938

SCOUTS’ CHURCH PARADE

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:10:31 GMT

Sunday 1st February, 11am Mass St P. Howard Church

A warm welcome to the young people who will aƩend Mass in uniform, the flag bearers and escorts. We welcome them as they parade through our congregation, their flags are displayed throughout service and will be collected at the end. For more info about the Uniformed Groups, please contact Andrea Barnes via the Parish office.

PRAYER WALKS

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 14:33:44 GMT

The prayer walks have started. Deacon Larry was on the first two walks and can attest to a warm, friendly and prayerful atmosphere. Please join us. Prayer like this is known to bear fruit!

Next walks: Sunday 1st Feb. 2pm from Sacred Heart

Tuesday 3rd Feb. 2pm from St Philip Howard

Please get in touch with Dcn Larry and David Cockshoot.

lmurawski@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk or 01329 318 869 David on davidcockshoot@gmail.com or 07881 956 644

Contact information needed - in case of cancellation.

STOP IT NOW www.stopitnow.org.uk

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 13:50:26 GMT

www.stopitnow.org.uk

If you suspect that someone is sexually abusing a child or if you are worried about your own behaviour contact in confidence ‘Stopitnow’. Freephone 0808 1000 900, use live chat or send a secure email in confidence. If you are a vicƟm of domesƟc abuse there are agencies who can help you. Visit www.stopdomesticabuse.uk or tel. 0330 0533 630

LOOKING AHEAD TO LENT AND HOLY WEEK

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 13:44:37 GMT

* Ash Wednesday: 18th February

* 4th Sunday of Lent (Mother’s Day): 15th March

* Palm Sunday: 29th March

* Easter Sunday: 5th April

NATIONAL MARRIAGE WEEK 2026

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 13:42:25 GMT

MARRIAGE SANKOVA RETREAT AND WORKSHOP

Sat 7th Feb. 11am - 6pm St Philip Howard Church & Hall.

Gen 1:28 - Sacred Embrace & Natural Family Planning Day

Retreat Master: Fr Anthony Chiatu

NFP expert: Dr Olive Duddy

Suggested donation: £20 per person or £35 per couple Hot lunch and refreshments will be provided.

Book your place by RSVP message to Aba on 07780 390 102

We need an Organist

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 10:55:58 GMT

ORGANIST - Sacred Heart Sunday 9am Mass
Does anyone know of a competent organist (as the console and its’ stops are a bit “Ɵred”) we could approach, who could play 3 out of the 4 Sundays?

ADORE SPIRITUAL MINI-RETREAT

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 09:06:57 GMT

ADORE SPIRITUAL MINI-RETREAT

24th January, 10.00-1.00 on Zoom.

"GOD IS LOVE" – Jesus taught that God is a loving and merciful Father. Mini retreat morning including Mass, AdoraƟon, Praise, Prophecy, Prayer for the giŌs of the Holy Spirit and inspiring talk from guest speaker Fr. Chris Thomas, founder of the Irenaeus Community in Liverpool. Register in advance at bit.ly/ADOREJAN2026 More informaƟon at www.altonrenewal.com

WHITE FLOWER APPEAL - 17th/18th January

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 17:18:45 GMT

The Society for the Protection of Unborn Children wants a world where abortion is unthinkable and is raising awareness of the widespread problem of abortion coercion. For info about SPUC visit: www.spuc.org.uk

WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 16:38:24 GMT

www.ctbi.org.uk/week-of-prayer

Prayers and reflections have been prepared by the faithful of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

FAREHAM UNITY SERVICE Sunday 18th January 4pm Baptist New Life Church, Gosport. PO16 0QW

All are very welcome. Light refreshments afterwards too!

LENT GROUPS Ecumenical study groups

A great blessing to the Christians of Fareham, enabling us to study and pray together, and make friends with people from churches other than our own.

We are looking for Hosts and Leaders.

Groups can meet in the morning, afternoon or evening, any weekday for the 5 weeks of Lent. Able to help?

Please contact Liz Dunning: lent@farehamchristians.org.uk / 07879 685 556 by 11th February

THANK YOU FROM CN. JOHN

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 15:44:46 GMT

I hope you have been blessed with an enjoyable Christmas and New Year. Your cards, kind messages and gifts to me have been so generous. Thank you too for your very kind gift of the Christmas offering. Thank you to the team for your huge effort with the extra celebrations for New Year, Altar Servers and Epiphany - AMDG.

Cn John.

(Cn John’s Christmas break is 26th - 30th January)

IN PERSON SAFEGUARDING TRAINING Sat. 17 January

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 15:15:45 GMT

Saturday 17 Jan, St Margaret Mary, Park Gate 10am - 1pm

This covers both Adult & Child Safeguarding Training Safeguarding Training is mandatory for anyone who DBS holds volunteers. Training must be refreshed every 3 years. The training can be done online or face to face.

For enquiries/to book email Stephanie. Parish Safeguarding: safeguarding.fare@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

Secular Franciscan Order (OFS) Meeting

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 13:09:06 GMT

ELECTION MEETING

Saturday 17th Jan, 12pm, St Philip Howard Hall

For info. contact John: franciscansolent@outlook.com

Thank you Altar Servers

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 10:49:44 GMT

THANK YOU - ALTAR SERVERS - St Stephen’s Guild

Guild Motto - ‘To serve is to reign’

Congratulations to the 7 new members of the Guild who received their St Stephen Medals last Sunday. A big thank you to our wonderful (and huge) team of Altar Servers (and their families) for your ministry serving the community.

Servers of the Year 2025

1st Prize: John M

2nd Prize: Sancta Maria C,

and 3rd Prize: Samara U

Server of the Month - December ‘25 “Green Cincture of honour” awarded to Gabriel B

Sacrament of Reconciliation

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 09:23:25 GMT

SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION - CONFESSIONS

* Thursdays; After 10am Mass.

* 1st Saturdays; 10am - 11am.

* 2nd, 3rd, 4th Saturdays; 5pm - 6pm.

‘We don't drift to Heaven like we think we do. Just like Olympic athletes, reaching Heaven takes intentional sacrifice and purpose. We cannot be united to God unless we freely choose to love him.”

Fr Mike Schmitz

Bit unsure how? Cn John’s booklets available on the font, or visit: www.ctsbooks.org/how-to-go-to-confession

Christmas Crib Collection

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 22:16:12 GMT

The Bishop is asking that the crib offerings be for the Friends of the Holy Land. Christmas this year for families in Bethlehem will be stark. It’s been two years of brokenness for our brothers and sisters in Christ, with much violence, suffering and uncertainty for the future. Life hasn’t got any easier over the past year for Christians in the Holy Land. The repercussions of the war will be felt for years to come. Please use the Dona card reader in the foyer. Thank you!

MISSIO RED BOX DONATIONS - THANK YOU!

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 18:48:53 GMT

We have had a very good year and have collected over £3,287. Many thanks to all who have Red Boxes. Every coin, helps keep the Mission message alive.

We need new promoters to deliver the magazine and keep in touch with Red Box Holders and collect donations. If you can help contact John: franciscansolent@outlook.com

THANK YOU - ADVENT DAWN MASSES

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 18:31:15 GMT

Thank you to the Parish UCM for the Dawn Mass Breakfasts raising £681.00 for the Mary’s Meals Appeal

www.marysmeals.org.uk

CELEBRATIONS AND PREPARATIONS

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 18:29:14 GMT

A lot of behind the scenes work and commitment is put into the community throughout the year and more recently for our Advent Services, especially the Carol Service and Christmas celebrations. Thank you to all who have helped in the Church that Christ might be known.

Thank you also for your Christmas Cards and gifts with some really lovely messages. A personal thanks to all who give so generously of their time and their talents for the parish. A very happy Christmas and many blessings for 2026.

Cn. John

Christmas Collections

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 15:57:12 GMT

CHRISTMAS COLLECTION (24th & 25th December)

Catholic tradition holds that the Christmas offerings are, if you wish, your opportunity for a personal gift to the priest and is a main source of annual income for him. Offerings can be via BACS, cash or cheque with the reference “Christmas Offering” or you can use the Dona plates in both church foyers. Thank you!

Christmas Mass Times

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 10:49:16 GMT

CHRISTMAS MASS TIMES

Christmas Eve - Wednesday 24th December

5pm at St Philip Howard Church Vigil Mass

9pm at Sacred Heart Church (Midnight Mass)

Christmas Day - Thursday 25th December

Dawn Mass - 9am at Sacred Heart Church

Day Mass - 11am at St Philip Howard Church

RETROUVAILLE

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 19:57:03 GMT

Christmas can be a time of great stress for some marriages. Retrouvaille helps marriages.

It can bring hope and healing to relationships.

Next date: 12th February 2026 . www.retrouvaille.org.uk Tel: 07887 296983

CAFOD World Gifts: Give a Life-Changing Gift this Christmas

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 18:38:30 GMT

This year, share the joy of Christmas with a CAFOD World GiFTS – from safe water, to school supplies! A meaningful way to bless loved ones and help families overseas. worldgifts.cafod.org.uk

ADVENT BLESSING OF YOUR CRIB’S BAMBINO

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 15:54:49 GMT

ADVENT BLESSING OF YOUR CRIB’S BAMBINO

Third Sunday of Advent - 13th / 14th December

We invite you to bring the Christ Child (Bambino) from your own crib to be blessed at any Mass on the 3rd Sunday of Advent. This wonderful tradition originates in the papacy of Pope St. John Paul II.

ADVENT APPEAL - MARY’S MEALS

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 14:31:47 GMT

If you are interested in spreading the word about the work of Mary's Meals, please consider volunteering. Go to the Mary's Meals website to enquire ( https:// www.marysmeals.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer ).

If you would like the book "The Shed that Fed 2 million children" to learn about the story of Mary's Meals, these will be available at the back of St Philip Howard Church and Sacred Heart Church; we suggest a donation of £19.15 if possible.

Thank you so much for supporting.

Diaconate Ordination - Jack Ryan

Sat, 06 Dec 2025 10:54:22 GMT

Saturday 20th December 3pm

St John’s Cathedral, Bishop Crispian Way, Portsmouth.

All are invited to the ordination of Jack, one of our “sons” from St Margaret Mary’s Parish, Park Gate. Through the solemn Laying on of Hands he will be ordained a Deacon for us and, God willing, a Priest next year. Do come and support, and pray for Jack. All are very welcome!

PILGRIMAGE TO WESTPORT, KNOCK & CO. MAYO

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 14:26:26 GMT

Sunday 8th March 2026

Escorted Tour to Westport, Knock & Co Mayo.

Package includes:

flight from Heathrow or Luton with 10kg hold luggage

5 nights in 4* Castlecourt Hotel, Westport with Dinner, Bed & Breakfast full use of leisure facilities

all entertainment, excursions and transport

Visit Knock Shrine, Ballintubber Abbey, Fr. Peyton Centre & Kylemore Abbey. Irish music nightly.

£899.00 per person sharing. Single supplement on enquiry.

Contact 01268 762 278 or 07740 175557 or email knockpilgrimages@gmail.com .

CHRISTIANS IN PORTCHESTER ADVENT SERVICE

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 14:22:50 GMT

Sunday 7th December, 6pm , in Portchester Parish Hall (adjacent to the car park and opposite to the side of the Methodist church).

All welcome!

PARISH REPOSITORY

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 18:18:29 GMT

At Sacred Heart and St Philip Howard Church

Christmas cards and gifts available.

Opening Times: SHH after Mass. SPH Sunday before and after the 11am Mass.

CAROL SERVICE

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 16:26:31 GMT

Sunday 14th December, 3pm, St Philip Howard Church

Led by singers from the Solent Pastoral Area. Organist - Sarah Gallop. Refreshments & Raffle afterwards in the hall. Come and join us. All welcome! Hamper donations gratefully received. Please drop off at parish office.

CHRISTMAS DECORATING HELP NEEDED!

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 16:14:08 GMT

Saturday 20th Dec, 10am, St Philip Howard

Come and help us put up the crib and prepare decorations for the church. Please contact the Office if you can help.

ADVENT REFLECTION - TEAMS OF OUR LADY

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 16:01:23 GMT

Saturday 6th Dec, 7:30pm, St Margaret Mary, Park Gate

You are warmly invited to a short service of reflection, followed by light refreshments. All are very welcome.

DCN ANDREW’S ‘DRILL DOWN’ BIBLE STUDY GROUP

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 15:56:01 GMT

Immaculate Conception Church, Bells Lane, Stubbington. Every Monday 10am – Meeting Room.

A ‘second look’ at the readings of the previous Sunday. Get your fill of Scripture. Something to get your teeth into.

A MESSAGE FROM FR BENEDIKT TIMPE

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 15:19:55 GMT

‘My dear parishioners, since May of this year I have been serving the Parish of Fareham which has been a beautiful and enriching experience for me. I have met many lovely people and I am deeply grateful for having been welcomed with open arms. But now the time has come to move on. A situation of urgency has arisen in St. Theresa's parish Totton, which currently does not have a resident priest. The Bishop has therefore asked me to move to Holy Family Parish, Millbrook, which is close to Totton. Being based there I will be working in both parishes. I hope to see you again soon and greet you with my best wishes.’

Fr Benedikt

RCIA - ADULT JOURNEY IN FAITH

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 14:41:46 GMT

WEDNESDAYS - ADULT JOURNEY IN FAITH GROUP

Wednesdays 7pm Church, for 7.15pm-9pm. S.Heart Hall

Wanting to know about the Catholic faith. Come & see!

Topics; 3rd Dec. True Freedom.

10th Dec. Meaning of Love

Contact Dcn Larry: lmurawski@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

ADVENT BOOKLET ‘Praying with the Psalms’

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 14:27:12 GMT

Redemptorist Publication three-minute reflections and prayers inviting you to ponder the wonder of God becoming human in Christ Jesus. £2.50 a copy. In the Church Foyer...

The Chosen - Confirmation pathway

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 10:30:45 GMT

‘CHOSEN’ CONFIRMATION PATHWAY

Session 5. Fri 12th December 7- 8.30pm. At St P. Howard.

Topic ‘For this is how God loved the World - Birth of Jesus 7pm - 7.20pm.

The Chosen group commence their evening with Exposition, Adoration and Prayer. All are welcome to come and pray for and with our young people.

Stella Maris Christmas Chocolate Appeal

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 10:19:58 GMT

STELLA MARIS - CHRISTMAS CHOCOLATE APPEAL

Support seafarers visiting our Southern Region ports in the days before Christmas through the offering of the gift of chocolate. Please bring in any donations of chocolate tubs/ boxes to the Parish Office by Fri 12th Dec . Thank you.

Advent Reconciliation - Confessions

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 10:17:18 GMT

ADVENT RECONCILIATION - CONFESSIONS

Sacred Heart Parish, Fareham Thurs. 11th Dec. 10.30 - 11.30am. with Fr D. Conroy RN. 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th Saturdays: 5 - 6pm

St Mary’s Parish, Gosport Wednesday 6:15pm - 6:45pm. Saturdays 12 noon - 1pm

Our Lady and St John’s, Stubbington Saturday at Our Lady: 5:15 - 5:45pm. Weekdays: after Mass

St Margaret Mary’s Parish Park Gate See newsletter ...

Advent Dawn masses - Thursdays

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 10:15:55 GMT

ADVENT DAWN MASSES

Thursday 4th/11th/19th December

During Advent there will be a Dawn Mass on Thursdays at 7am followed by breakfast in the hall hosted by the UCM.

If anyone has any allergies but would like to join in the Advent breakfast, please let Pauline Williams know in advance: PJWFareham1@gmail.com All donations will go to our Advent Appeal Mary’s Meals.

CHURCH WC FACILITIES - CLEANING

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 16:38:17 GMT

In light of our “rock” of a Church Toilets’ Cleaner sustaining a nasty injury, we will need volunteers to clean the toilets at Sacred Heart and St Philip Howard. So Cn John will be looking to ‘press gang’ some volunteers, please!

WOMEN'S RETREAT DAY

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 16:28:52 GMT

Saturday 29th November, 9.30 - 4.00pm, Sacred Heart, Waterlooville PO7 7 SR.

Catholic Mothers Portsmouth & Southampton look forward to welcoming you. Speaker: Fr Tom Hiney. Lunch provided. Babes in arms welcome! £10 suggested donation. For more info. email: catholicmotherssoton@gmail.com

CHURCHES TOGETHER - LENT GROUPS

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 15:55:30 GMT

York Course ‘Daring to see God now’

We are looking for Hosts and Leaders. Groups can meet in the morning, afternoon or evening, any weekday for the 5 weeks starting 23rd Feb. Able to help? Please contact Liz: lizdunning@ntlworld.com / 07879 685 556 by 20th Dec

MARRIAGE SANKOFA RETREAT DAY

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 15:52:49 GMT

Sat. 29th November 12.30 – 5.30pm

Holy Family Church, Redbridge Hill. So’ton. SO16 4PL

For everyone interested in deepening their knowledge of the marriage covenant; couples, spouses, young & old.

Contact Aba: marriagesankofa@hotmail.com 07780 390 102 No charge, just ‘donations welcome’

Sacred Heart Church heating

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 15:33:05 GMT

We are currently experiencing problems with the boiler at Sacred Heart and unfortunately we do not have heating in the church.

If you are attending Mass this weekend at Sacred Heart please come wrapped up for a swift service.

We do have heating in the hall so our Children's Liturgy group will still be snug!

The heating engineer is coming out on Monday so hopefully we will be weatherproof very soon!

SVP Mass & Christmas Party

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:18:28 GMT

SVP MASS & CHRISTMAS PARTY

Wed 3rd December, 1:30pm at St Philip Howard

The SVP will be hosting a Christmas Party for our older parishioners. It will start at 1:30pm with Mass, followed by a Christmas Tea in the Hall. All are welcome and please pass this invitation on to anyone who might not otherwise receive it. If you need help with transport, no problem, please phone 07435 880 190 or contact the Parish Office.

Confessions

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 09:01:17 GMT

Let us not leave this sacrament of peace and of freedom to just Advent or Lent. Trust in this sacrament of healing.

Thursdays : After the 10am Mass .

Saturdays : 5-6pm (first Saturdays 10-11am)

Help Needed

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 13:13:16 GMT

Saturday 20th Dec, 10am, St Philip Howard

Come and help us put up the crib and prepare decorations for the church.

Please contact the parish office if you can help.

OFS Meeting

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 23:17:33 GMT

OFS SOUTHERN REGIONAL MEETING

Sat 15th Nov, 12pm - 4pm at St Philip Howard Church

Mass at 12pm. All are welcome to attend. For info please contact John and Esme Vivian at: Solentofs@outlook.com

ST PHILIP HOWARD CHURCH - GROUNDS

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 15:05:49 GMT

We are looking for some extra volunteers to help keep the grounds welcoming, trimmed and tidy.

This is an important yet often unnoticed task. If you have some spare time and strength for this then please let us know!

CONFIRMATION GROUP - BIBLE REQUEST

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 15:03:39 GMT

If anyone has a bible you don’t need could you donate it for the Confirmation Group to use please?

It’s to help with prayer and study without the distraction of phone apps and notifications etc. Please bring the bibles to the parish office. Many thanks

NEURODIVERSITY AND THE CATHOLIC FAITH

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 14:40:44 GMT

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England & Wales and Birmingham Newman University are conducting research into Neurodiversity and our Faith experience.

In this Participatory Research we want to understand what helps and what gets in the way for neurodivergent Catholics in England and Wales. Your insights can help us to become more inclusive and responsive.

The online surveys are anonymous and will only take around 10-20 minutes to complete.

If you are:

1. Catholic (practising or not)

You are Neurodivergent

You are 18+ years old

You live in England or Wales.

Link: https://forms.office.com/e/CBQWtarVMP

2. A caregiver of a Neurodivergent Catholic.

A caregiver of a Catholic care recipient (who is either practising or not)

Your care recipient is neurodivergent (2+ yrs old)

Your care recipient lives in England or Wales.

Link: https://forms.office.com/e/BCQq71W1w9

Deadline is: Sun. 11th Jan ’26. For more information please contact: either Fleur Dorrell: fleur.dorrell@cbcew.org.uk

or Dr Magdalena: smusz@staff.newman.ac.uk

Cemetery Prayers - Sunday 9th November

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 14:12:57 GMT

Sunday 9th November

3pm Wickham Road Cemetery, Fareham.

3pm Roman Grove Cemetery, Portchester.

A special 10 minute service - then to family graves for short prayer and blessing.

CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE MEETING

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 11:06:18 GMT

CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE MEETING

Wed 12th Nov, 1:30pm at Our Lady, Stubbington

Mass: 12 Noon - Ints. of CWL Members past & present.

Presentation: Volunteering with Mercy Ships. Dr Jo. 1.30pm All very welcome. Please bring a packed lunch.

For information, please contact Marguerite: 01489 575 663 / margieboulter@aol.com Maria Owen: 07790 378 097/ mariaeowen@gmail.com

Help Needed - First Eucharist

Sun, 26 Oct 2025 10:53:17 GMT

First Eucharist. Our urgent need is for 4 people to join the established First Holy Communion team, who will be leading our children through their preparation in the New Year, hosted at St Margaret Mary’s, Park Gate.

If you could consider this, we have time to arrange the required DBS for Safeguarding if you could let us know asap. We are always on the lookout for new Confirmation and RCIA catechists too – as many hands, spread the load.

Please speak with Cn John if you can help

All Souls Day

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 20:53:01 GMT

ALL SOULS’ DAY Monday 3rd November

10am Sacred Heart Church 7.30pm St Philip Howard Church

"When a man is dead, he can do nothing more for himself ... But we can do something for the faithful departed in purgatory. Our love extends into the a��erlife. Through our fas��ng, prayers, and good works, but especially through the celebra��on of Holy Eucharist, we can obtain grace for the departed" (YouCat 160) In this forthcoming month of the Holy Souls, we encourage you to increase your prayers for our family members, friends, and all those who have no one to pray for them.

Additional Important News Items

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 09:58:18 GMT

Please view our additional items of news posted for this week:

QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN NEEDED!

We are in urgent need for a qualified electrician to work with our gas engineer to fix the

hea��ng system at St Philip Howard church.

We are assured this is a small job but requires the input of a qualified electrician.

If you can help, or know someone who can, please contact the parish office on 01329

318869

MAGICAL MELODIES

Wednesday 22nd October, 7pm, Our Lady of the Immaculate Concep��on Church,

Stubbington

The choir invites you to join them for an evening of magical melodies – popular songs,

songs from the shows, folk songs and sing-a-longs!

This will be followed by a bring and share buffet in the hall. Tea, coffee and squash will be

available but you are welcome to bring your own choice of drink.

All are welcome.

FIREWORKS DISPLAY

Wednesday 22nd October, St Jude’s School

St Jude’s school and pre-school invite you to their firework display.

Starts at 5.30pm. Display ay 7pm.

Food Popcorn Drinks Game Stalls Glow Accessories and so much more!

Adults £5 Children £1 CASH ONLY

Please do not bring your own fireworks or Sparklers

Cau��on if using pushchairs as ground may be boggy

CTIF CHRISTINGLE-MAKING. BIG LIGHT SWITCH ON.

Saturday 22nd November, West Street, Fareham

We will be running our Chris��ans Together in Fareham Chris��ngle-making stand as part of

the big Light Switch-on event in Fareham.

As usual, we would like a good number of volunteers to help with this please. It is a great

opportunity to have fun and engage with the general public, to talk about the real

meaning of Christmas, and to witness to our Chris��an presence and unity in Fareham.

Dare to believe

Sat, 11 Oct 2025 14:43:28 GMT

YOUTUBE VIDEO - THE MASS. THE EUCHARIST

“Dare to Believe Series”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VS3CYsDHvGU

A really good reflec��on to ponder … A daring look into the

realm of spirituality where the mys��cal meets the material.

What if everything the Catholic Church proclaimed about

the Holy Eucharist was actually true? Would it have the

power to change your life?

Thank you to our Health and Safety Team

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 14:45:42 GMT

THANK YOU TO THE PARISH HEALTH & SAFETY TEAM

We have been blessed with a wonderful team response to

the WorkNest Health & Safety Audit calling our proper��es &

procedures to account on behalf of the Diocese.

A huge thank you to Bruce and the Health and Safety Core

Team who have spent many hours over the past year,

working with parish groups and signing off the items of the

audit reports, seeking to make sure we are compliant.

Hopefully this will be complete just before Christmas.

A Parishioner Reflection - Intrinsic Dignity

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 14:22:10 GMT

A PARISHIONER’S REFLECTION - INTRINSIC DIGNITY.

My name is Richard Murphy. I am a member of the parish and grateful to be part of a dynamic faith community.

Over the last 6 years I have had the privilege of completing my doctoral studies on a part-time basis. I explored how we experience each other’s intrinsic dignity in day-to-day life.

This involved spending time with a Christian day community, Boaz. Boaz is based on and runs a farm. It includes a few staff, volunteers and members with learning difficulties. I explored how the people at Boaz experience each other’s worth. I found that our experience communicates to us that we have a limited and contingent worth. For example, we suffer, experience injustice and judgement. We fall short of who we think we should be.

However, when we live in relationships of humble care for each other we experience the possibility of a worth that goes beyond our value in the world. Through giving his life for us in the crucifixion, resurrection and eucharist, Jesus has shown us the way. Cn. John has allowed me to share reflections on my research and faith with you. Through the Spirit, I pray they give life.

For my doctorate I explored how we experience and witness each person’s intrinsic dignity in day-to-day life. My studies were influenced by three parts of my life. Firstly, my time as a social worker being trained in human rights, secondly my experience of being a father of Rose and Eve, who have Down syndrome and last but not least, my faith in Christ. During my studies my faith was an indirect but powerful influence. I approached the experience in philosophical terms. This reflection is my chance to give testimony in a more direct way to how Christ is at the centre of everything.

The research grew out of an experience of contradiction. I was schooled in the beliefs that all of us are born equal with an intrinsic dignity. This was my daily rhetoric but not quite the air I breathed. I remember speaking to someone who had just had a child born with a disability. I said all the right things and emphasised how that child has equal worth and dignity. Yet, I distinctly remember that afterwards I thought, ‘thank goodness that is not me’. Little did I know that we would have two children born with Down syndrome.

At some stage in life we are all confronted by the seeming contradiction or paradox of intrinsic dignity. If we understand dignity simply as our worth, intrinsic means that our worth exists in ourselves and not dependent on a system of evaluation outside of ourselves. Yet in the world our worth depends on how we are weighed in the scales. Our degree of intelligence, our physical beauty, our wealth. These have real world consequences. For example, life expectancy is largely dictated by whether we share in a deprived or affluent area or whether we are born with a disability or not.

On the level of theory this contradiction is evident as on the one hand we have to think about what gives our life worth and meaning in order to identify what rights we should be ensured. For example, the right to life, to food all the way up to the right to political engagement and the right to worship. On the other hand, as soon as we theorise what gives us worth we create a way of judging the worth of each other’s lives. In today’s culture, Kittay a female philosopher, talks about us being captive of and worshiping the myth of the disembodied twenty something that never ages, suffers, experiences disability or needs anyone else. This is not just an abstract idea but a visceral and heavy scale that bears into our skin. We feel it and it can be heard in the most common reason for considering euthanasia, ‘When all I am is a burden, is my life worth living?’.

Simply put, we have a sense of or at least a desire for intrinsic worth, yet our experience of life witnesses a sense of limited and contingent worth. We suffer, we die, we experience cruelty and injustice. We live our life with an idea of what a good person is that we have to achieve but each day are confronted by the reality that we are not that person. This experience weighing on me led me to ask if there is another way we bear witness to each other’s intrinsic worth.

The Church teaches us that we are born in the image and likeness of God. One of the key things about God is that we don’t encounter God as object to be defined, classified and positioned in our vision of the world. God is always the one we know only in what an encounter with God asks of us. How it calls us into question, moves us outside of ourselves. So it is with each other. I encounter the other person’s intrinsic dignity not as an object to be defined but as a command that calls me into question. I experience it as a command that calls me to respond in responsibility in the vulnerability of life. It is my response to this call that defines me and witnesses to the other their worth.

In my research I spent time with a Christian community based on a farm in the New Forest, Boaz. It was a day community made up of members with learning disabilities, volunteers and staff. I explored how members of the community experienced their own and other people’s worth. What I found was that this worth was experienced in a humble witness of being for the other person. This was both in the profound moments of life such as birth and death but also the simple things like not leaving the other person alone in their celebration and sharing food or nature.

One member, Bernadean, had grown very fond of a guinea pig. When this guinea pig died she experienced her worth in the way others buried it for her with respect. When the farm bought a new guinea pig she cared for it as a mother. She described it being skittish at first but then getting to know her and respecting her if she showed respect. She understood its feelings, ‘like a friend’. Bernadean had a friend, Tara. Tara is also a

member. She is middle aged. She had a boyfriend who was given a cancer diagnosis. When Bernadean found out about this, she wanted Tara to know that ‘she is lovely’ and ‘means everything’. Bernadean wanted Tara to experience the love of having a guinea pig and gave it to her.

Tara shared her story with me. When we spoke she would move from topic to topic and get distracted. Yet in a moment of pure clarity she told me about her boyfriend being diagnosed with cancer. She shared that his dying wish was for her to have a meal with him and attend his funeral. She said, ‘It was his dying wish, so I thought alright’. She was sad to go to the funeral but she was there with all the people she cared about. She also shared with me the joy of being an aunty to her niece who is two. She clapped and her face exploded in a smile of sheer joy. I felt both of these experiences came from the same place in her. The potential to be for the other person, before our thought about it. A possibility of being for the other that is baked into us.

There were many other examples, such as a staff member seeing a reserved member start to dance to music with a different member and then her joining them in celebration as they danced to the Tanoy music in a supermarket. There was also Tony who was less verbal in his communication but who would welcome everyone with a fist pump and ask them to sit with him. This simple witness of welcome had a profound effect on a volunteer who arrived for the first time and was unsure if they would fit in. He said it made him realise that it is not good enough to just think about your own life, you have to reach out to others.

When I sought to understand the meaning of these experiences, I drew on a Catholic philosopher, Jean Luc Marion and a Jewish philosopher, Emanual Levinas. This led me to realise that when we encounter our own vulnerability and the vulnerability of others it calls our sense of worth in the world into question. When we allow ourselves to be touched by the vulnerability of others we experience a command to respond in responsibility to them in the situation they find themselves in. Although, it is a command it does not compel us but confronts us as a call which we can engage with or turn away from. Tara did not have to share a meal with her boyfriend or attend his funeral. Yet, she allowed herself to be changed by his life. In doing so she bore witness to his intrinsic worth in the vulnerability of her own body. She shared food with him, shed tears for him and endured the pain of loss.

The call always asks something of us, a sacrifice. For example, the staff member had to risk looking stupid when dancing. At the same time when we respond it creates a dynamic of promise in us that has a power to change other’s lives all on its own. That promise is not about anything particular or an ability to control life but about an openness to others that wishes to embrace and celebrate their goodness, even in their loss. I experienced this most profoundly when Rose was born and I discovered she had Down syndrome. I think all parents have a slow journey into the realisation that their

child is not necessarily who they thought they would be or want them to be. My children are who they are almost regardless of what I want them to be. With Rose, this realisation came all at once. In responding to the call to responsibility I had to let go of all the ideas I had of a ‘normal’ life for her. Yet in doing so, it opened a horizon in which I could see her and see her as one that matters. This has brought a deep and rich openness to her and her future even though I do not know what that will be. It brought a dynamic of promise that is only experienced in relationship.

We have a model of how to bear this witness to others. We have a God that became man and showed us the way, witnessing our worth to us in being willing to bear the crucifixion in his own body. We have his own words that when we do something for the seemingly ‘least’ we do it for him. We also have a Church that shows us the way to witness through the corporal works of mercy: feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless, visit the sick, visit the imprisoned, and bury the dead. I would add to these, echoing Paul, to not leave your neighbour alone in the fragility of their joy but rejoice when they rejoice.

Much of the culture in the world speaks of autonomy, independence and self-actualisation. What I have discovered is that the deepest, richest and most enduring meaning is found in my ethical belonging to the other. In saying yes to bearing its witness. A witness that can change lives. At its deepest level this is what we do at Mass. We participate in and bear witness to the dignity of Christ’s love for us made manifest in the crucifixion and resurrection. In consuming the Eucharist we become incorporated into that eternal witness of love made present in my life and body.

PARISH ALTAR SERVERS – PIZZA & 10 PIN BOWLING

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 13:44:20 GMT

Fri 17th Oct. 5.00pm

We seem to have more than expected sign up! We have

30+ taking over ‘Bowl Central Fareham’.

Thank you to the Men’s Group and Ladies Group helping to shepherd and host our servers.

To help sponsor this Thank You (as it is a big group!) we will

have a retiring collection after Mass on the 10th/11th.

October - Month of the Holy Rosary

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 09:36:54 GMT

October is traditionally the month dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary. The Rosary, developed in the High Middle Ages period and the reason that October came to be devoted to its recitation, is primarily because the liturgical feast of Our Lady of the Rosary is celebrated annually on 7th October.

OCTOBER DEVOTIONS - Rosary and Benediction Sundays, 4pm at Sacred Heart Please can I encourage you all to find some time each day this coming month to pray even just a decade of the Rosary. A worthwhile prayer intention for this month is the Diocesan 10 year plan for the new Evangelisation and what this will look like for our Solent Pastoral area, as well as praying for much needed vocations!

FIRST EUCHARIST PREPARATION - ‘26

Sat, 27 Sep 2025 22:01:59 GMT

FIRST EUCHARIST – 2026

Applications for 2026 are now invited. The programme is a commitment of 20 weeks.

The classes, for those who regularly aƩend Sunday Mass, will be on Saturdays 10am - 11am at St Margaret Mary’s Park Gate. A starting date is to be confirmed.

For the application form, contact S. Heart Parish Office: farehamportchester@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

Closing date for applications is Sunday 28th September 2025

PARISH MISSION. PRAYER WALKS - VOLUNTEERS

Sat, 27 Sep 2025 19:48:27 GMT

Following on from the mini-mission, we are hoping to start several prayer walks where partakers can pray for the people who live, learn or work in the residences, schools and care homes viewed or who are encountered along the way.

We are asking for several volunteers who could serve as coordinators for the different areas of the parish.

A coordinator would be asked to plan a route, set a risk assessment / schedule, and assemble the walkers.

If you are interested in being a coordinator, please contact Dcn Larry;: lmurawski@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk .

‘CHOSEN’ - PASTORAL AREA CONFIRMATION GROUP

Sat, 27 Sep 2025 18:16:53 GMT

If you were unable to attend the Information Evening please contact the Parish Office with your details to register your interest and / or offers to help our wonderful Team. Sessions take place on 2nd & 4th Fridays, 7 - 8.30pm.

Session 1: Fri 10th Oct. Beginning the journey. What is faith? Contact the Parish Office with your details to register your interest and / or offers to help our wonderful Team.

Shoebox appeal

Sat, 27 Sep 2025 17:57:28 GMT

The UCM ladies are once again sending a Christmas gift to children in Eastern European countries who get nothing. Items must fit in a shoe box. No liquids, nothing edible and nothing electrical (even battery operated) can be included. If any parishioner has any donations which they wish to contribute, please bring them to the Sacred Heart Hall on Monday 29th September between 7 & 8pm or give them to Pauline Williams (07799472922) or Lorne Fry

REQUESTING HOLY COMMUNION

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 17:51:46 GMT

Are you unable to come to Mass at present because of sickness or infirmity? Have you just come out of hospital and are not yet able to come to Mass?

Would you like someone to bring you Holy Communion at home?

Contact Deacon Larry on 01329 3198 869 or lmurawski@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

Christmas Repository

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 08:53:57 GMT

CHRISTMAS REPOSITORY at Sacred Heart and St Philip Howard

Yes, Christmas!

Christmas cards will be available to buy from the repository from Saturday 18th October , with other Christmas related items to follow. Please ask Barbara or Nicki if there is anything in particular you would like and we will try to help.

Additional news - 18th September 2025

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 12:34:31 GMT

Please view an additional newsletter for this week:

Additional news - 8th September 2025

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 16:08:03 GMT

Please view an additional newsletter for this week:

CAFOD: RESPONSE IN GAZA

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 19:57:08 GMT

cafod.org.uk

CAFOD's partner, Caritas Jerusalem, is delivering medical treatment to displaced people and providing medicines to treat chronic illnesses. Your donations have been a lifeline.

Despite the restrictions on aid coming into Gaza, CAFOD has helped 1,400 households buy supplies in the last month and are feeding 2,000 people with new stocks of flour and rice.

Cardinal Pizzaballa (Patriarch of Jerusalem) says, “Christ is not absent from Gaza. He is there - crucified in the wound‐ ed, buried under rubble, and yet present in every act of mer‐ cy, every candle in the darkness, every hand extended to the suffering.”

 Thank you for your appeals & prayers for peace

CAFOD MEETING

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 19:51:42 GMT

Sat. 20th Sept. 10.30am-1.30pm. St Bede’s Ch. Basingstoke

Come and hear about the difference your donaƟons are making and CAFOD’s work with partners in Southern Ethiopia. A simple lunch will be provided so please book your place by emailing Jo: jlewry@cafod.org.uk

CATHOLIC ASSOCIATION (CA) LOURDES PILGRIMAGE

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 15:53:17 GMT

Callum, Mitchelle and Dawid wish to say thank you to the parish for sponsoring their fares as Young Helpers to the Hotel and Accueil Sick. It was noted by the CA how very dedicated they were to their duties, the liturgies and how much they brought to the Pilgrimage as a whole. They worked very hard and have done the parish proud. Google cliftondiocese.com/pilgrimage/Lourdes for the reflections, pictures and homilies of each day!

Alton Day of Renewal

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 21:43:09 GMT

ADORE ALTON DAY OF RENEWAL

PILGRIMS OF HOPE. FORGIVE ONE ANOTHER

Jubilee is above all a time of forgiveness.” Mini-Retreat Sat 30th Aug 10am - 1pm on Zoom. Including Mass, Adoration, Praise, Prophecy, Prayer for the gifts of the Holy Spirit and inspiring talk from guest speaker Fr Paul Leonard.

Please register for the free Zoom meeting in advance at bit.ly/ADOREAUG2025 More information at www.altonrenewal.com

CONFIRMATION ’26

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 14:55:25 GMT

(For those in Year 8 and above)

Introduction Evening Fri 26th Sept, 7-8.30pm St Philip Howard Hall.

“Come and see” Presentation of Certificates to Confirmands. Catch up, photos and find out about the programme ahead.

Sessions take place on 2nd & 4th Fridays, 7-8.30pm. Session 1: Fri 10th Oct. Beginning the journey. What is faith?

Contact the Parish Office with your details to register your interest and / or offers to help our wonderful Team.

NEW PARISHIONERS! ST PHILIP HOWARD PARKING

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 14:47:33 GMT

Please remember we have an automatic number plate recogniƟon (ANPR) system at St Philip Howard car park. Car parking restrictions in place Monday to Friday, 7am to 5pm.

If you are aƩending the church during these times please provide the parish office with your car registration number and we can add this to the system for future use. There is also a tablet located in the church foyer where visitors who have not pre-registered can enter their registration number for ‘on the day’ use of the car park.

Blue Badge Holders must register their vehicle too.

EUCHARSITIC ADORATION OF THE REAL PRESENCE OF OUR LORD IN THE BLESSED SACRAMENT

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 14:44:58 GMT

Tuesdays, 10:30am - 12 noon Sacred Heart Church Come & be with Our Lord, even if only for a few moments.

Essential for growing in a personal relationship with Christ.

HOLY HOUR FOR VOCATIONS - ‘… ask the Lord.’ Mt 9:38 Thursdays, 7pm - 8pm at Sacred Heart Church

Please come and pray for workers in the Lord’s vineyard

‘RED BOX’ MISSIO “Mill Hill” APPEAL

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 13:21:48 GMT

Fr Bernie writes “Many thanks for your kindness, hospitality and support. The parish community were very friendly”.

As well as signing up to the Red Box Appeal and S/Os MISSIO received a retiring collection of £1193.00.

PARISH ECOLOGY GROUP - PEG

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 12:50:50 GMT

APPEAL FOR VOLUNTEERS

This September our group has been in this Parish for over 32 years! The team needs new helpers, especially with the Living Simply Award work for our Parish. We meet on a Tuesday morning af t er Mass at Sacred Heart hall.

If you can spare some t i me please contact John Vivian: franciscansolent@outlook.com

CHRISTIANS TOGETHER IN FAREHAM - HOLIDAY CLUB

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 11:49:47 GMT

Thank you for your support and prayers for this year's Holiday Club. A huge success with 60 children and about 50 adults enjoying Ɵme together learning and exploring what it is to have God and Jesus in our lives! Please conƟnue to pray for the children and their families. Pray that the seeds sown will germinate and flourish.

OUR LADY OF KNOCK - TALK

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 11:46:41 GMT

Thurs 21st August, 3pm St Philip Howard Church

The wonders of Our Lady of Knock first hand from Fr Tom Grufferty . Afternoon tea, scones, jam & biscuits provided.

C.A. PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES - YOUNG HELPERS

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 11:35:47 GMT

www.catholicassociation.co.uk 22nd - 29th August

Prayer intentions

If you would like prayer intentions taken to the Grotto and left with Our Lady, please put in a sealed envelope marked ‘Intention’ (these are presented at the 9pm Torchlight Procession and later burned). If you would like a candle to be lit and left in the Chapels of Light, opposite the Grotto, on the far side of the Gave with your intention, please put your cash donation in an open envelope marked ‘Candle’.

Children's Liturgy - SACRED HEART 9AM MASS

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 11:19:34 GMT

CHILDREN’S LITURGY

Thank you to the wonderful Team. There will be no Liturgy of the Word with Children from 27th July to 31st Aug.

It will start again on Sunday 7th September .

March for Life

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 08:52:07 GMT

MARCH FOR LIFE UK

Sat 7th September, London

The right to life underpins every other right we have and without it every other right is rendered meaningless. Abortion denies the most vulnerable in our society their most basic right, the right to life, which is why this year’s theme is “Human Rights for All Humans”. Unite with thousands of others at this family-friendly event. Find out more at www.marchforlife.co.uk or email info@marchforlife.co.uk

A MESSAGE FROM FR BENEDIKT TIMPE

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 14:18:30 GMT

MY DEAR PARISHIONERS,

As you may have already read in our last newsletter, Bishop Philip has appointed me as Assistant Priest to our Parish. As such I will be supporting Canon John in the priestly ministry to our community. While I have already personally met many of you, I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you.

My name is Fr. Benedikt Timpe. I am 36 years old and come from Germany, where I was born one of two children of my parents. As a teenager I began exploring the possibility of a vocation. I joined a religious community of Franciscan Friars in Italy, where I lived for about 7 years, receiving my spiritual formation and seminary training in various houses of study belonging to the community.

In 2018 I transferred to England as a member of a new branch of the same Franciscan family. On the 5th July 2019 I was ordained to the priesthood at Portsmouth Cathedral by Bishop Philip. Since then I have served as a priest in the Diocese of Portsmouth. I recently leŌ my previous religious community and am joining the Diocese of Portsmouth as a Secular Priest.

In May of the current year the Bishop asked me to come to the Parish of Fareham to assist and enable Canon John to have some necessary rest, as he had suffered an injury. Bishop Philip has now asked me to stay on and to serve in our Parish as an Assistant Priest.

I look forward to get to know you and to assist you with my priestly ministry. In the meanwhile, I entrust myself to your prayer and thank you for all the support that I have already received from so many of you. God bless!

FEAST OF THE ASSUMPTION OF OUR LADY

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 14:13:31 GMT

Friday 15th August Holyday of Obligation

10am Mass Sacred Heart Church

7.30pm Mass St Philip Howard Church

SVP MASS AND SACRAMENT OF THE SICK

Sat, 02 Aug 2025 19:37:04 GMT

Wed 6th August, 1.30pm at St Philip Howard Church

A special Mass with the Anointing of the Sick and celebratory Tea afterwards in the Hall. A big thank you to our wonderful SVP Group who provide confidential and discreet support to many in need in our area.

Would you like to join our team? Please contact the SVP on 07435 880 190 for more information.

SEMINARIAN - SEAN BARNES

Sat, 02 Aug 2025 19:34:17 GMT

Sean finishes his placement on Tues 12th August and leaves for his summer break before returning to the Pontifical Beda College, Rome in September to continue his formation. Thank you to everyone and the various parish groups for your warm welcome and support - it has been wonderful to have Sean with us.

COULD YOU SERVE THE CHURCH AS A TRUSTEE ON THE DIOCESAN FINANCE COUNCIL?

Sat, 02 Aug 2025 12:01:38 GMT

Bp Philip is seeking new Trustees to support the delivery of our 10-year Mission Plan, You Will be my Witnesses. We’re looking for people who are passionate about the Catholic Church and have significant professional experience, who feel called to offer their time and skills in service of the Church. Closing date: Mon 1 September.

For info. please contact: Dcn. Tony Darlison - Secretary to Trustees email: tdarlison@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

‘RED BOX’ THANK YOU AND APPEAL

Sat, 02 Aug 2025 11:23:55 GMT

Missio - Mill Hill Missionaries Sat 9th / Sun 10th Aug .

Welcome to Fr Bernie Luna MHM offering the five-yearly Red Box Appeal. Thank you to all parishioners who already give to the Pope’s official charity for overseas mission and Britain’s own missionary order, the Mill Hill Missionaries, through the Red Box.

A big thank you to John Vivian and his small team of 4 promoters for co-ordinating the Red Box appeal for our Parish that raised a total of £5,885.58 for 2024.

PARISH HEALTH AND SAFETY TEAM MEETING

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 11:59:19 GMT

Wed 30th July , 6pm at Sacred Heart Hall

If you have time to offer to support with the completion of regular health & safety measures in our churches, please join us at the meeting to find out more!

FR BENEDIKT TIMPE - APPOINTMENT

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 11:16:45 GMT

Fr Benedikt has been assisting Cn John after his accident, and we are delighted to announce that Bishop Philip has appointed him to our parish and the Solent Pastoral Area as Assistant Priest. Thank you, Fr Benedikt!

Celebrate Festival

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 13:28:28 GMT

CELEBRATE FESTIVAL ‘Witness to Hope’

A Catholic festival for all the family 6th - 20th August

At Worth Abbey, West Sussex. Join CELEBRATE for a

relaxed, faith filled festival. All are very welcome.

Visit; www.celebratetrust.org/festival

ORDINATION ANNIVERSARY

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 11:31:03 GMT

Ad multos annos!

To Dcn Larry celebrating his 6th Anniversary on Mon 21st July . Thank you for your wonderful ministry and hard work in the parish. AMDG!

WORLD DAY FOR GRANDPARENTS AND THE ELDERLY

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 09:37:14 GMT

Sunday 27th July (closest to Ss Joachim & Anne, Grandparents of Jesus)

The Catholic Grandparents Association has been at the forefront in campaigning for a greater recognition of Grandparents for their role and vocation in passing on their faith to the next generation. Pope Leo writes, “God teaches us that, in his eyes, old age is a time of blessing and grace, and that the elderly are, for him, the first witnesses of hope”

Christians Together Fareham

Sat, 05 Jul 2025 21:15:29 GMT

“Bright Sparks” Holiday Club 28th July to 1st August

To book a space: complete an on-line registration form at www.farehamchristians.org.uk/holclubreg.php

DIOCESAN DON BOSCO BOYS' CAMP

Sat, 05 Jul 2025 19:44:25 GMT

Sun 27th July - Sat 2nd August With Fr Mark Hogan

For boys who are currently in Year 6 Primary school to Year 11 Secondary school at St. Cassian’s, Kintbury.

Cost £230 (Part bursaries may be available on application).

Email: dbcamps@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk Visit: www.portsmouthdiocesedonboscocamp.co.uk

IMPORTANT! ST PHILIP HOWARD PARKING

Sat, 05 Jul 2025 19:40:09 GMT

Please remember that we now have an automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) system at St Philip Howard car park. Car parking restrictions will only apply Monday to Friday, 7am to 5pm.

If you are attending the church on a regular basis during these times please provide the parish office with your car registration number and we can add this to the system to be retained for all future use. There is also a tablet located in the church foyer where visitors who have not preregistered can enter their registration number for ‘on the day’ use of the car park.

Please note : Blue Badge Holders will still need to register their vehicle.

SECOND COLLECTION: STELLA MARIS

Sat, 05 Jul 2025 19:32:55 GMT

Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th July - “Sea Sunday” Formerly known as Apostleship of the Sea

CATHOLIC ASSOCIATION PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES

Sat, 05 Jul 2025 18:40:07 GMT

Fri 22nd Aug – Fri 29th Aug ’25

Visit: www.catholicassociation.co.uk A medically enhanced pilgrimage for Assisted Pilgrim or come as a Young Pilgrim Helper.

(Cn John is staying at the Hotel Eliseo) Jumbulance travel available too.

Ordination

Sat, 05 Jul 2025 13:24:15 GMT

Ryan Brown Ordination - Sat 19th July 11am. Cathedral.

If you have not been to the ordination of a priest before, can we invite you. It is at St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth, PO1 3HG. Parking is easy at Cascades Shopping Centre opposite, or use the Park ‘n Ride at Tipner Ln. PO2 8AN. Or train to Portsmouth and Southsea near the Cathedral. Let us pray for Ryan as he responds to the Lord’s call “Come, follow me.”

A VERY WARM WELCOME ...

Sat, 05 Jul 2025 13:20:55 GMT

WARM WELCOME - For 14th Sunday

To Msgr. Vincent Harvey celebrating Mass with us while Cn John is away - Vocations Promotion in Newbury.

Solent Pastoral Area (SPA) - Baptism preparation

Sat, 28 Jun 2025 20:05:24 GMT

SOLENT PASTORAL AREA (SPA) - An Update

There has been a lot happening “behind-the-scenes” in support of our journey towards implementing a new parish in the Solent Area by September 2026. One initiative now being rolled out is the joint Baptism Preparation Programme which is being centrally co-ordinated and delivered. The website will be used to give parents across all four parishes access to all the information they require to register onto the next programme. Use of this online form will significantly reduce the administrative workload and is being run as a pilot for cooperation on other programmes.

You can see the new Baptism Preparation page here: https://www.catholicchurchfareham.org.uk/ baptism-preparation-1

Sacrament of Confirmation

Sat, 28 Jun 2025 13:16:45 GMT

Thank you to Sue Field and the Team of Catechists leading our young people to our apostle, Bishop Philip, for the Sacrament of Confirmation. It was a wonderful occasion.

A big thank you to David Cockshoot leading the amazing Solent pop up Choir, organist and music group and the many who worked so hard behind the scenes on the day

CAR PARKING AT ST PHILIP HOWARD CHURCH

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 19:43:07 GMT

We would like to inform you that from Monday 23rd June car parking restrictions will commence. Restrictions will apply Monday to Friday, 7am to 5pm.

If you are attending the church during these hours please enter your car registration number into the tablet which is located in the church foyer. Someone will be there to assist, if needed.

Please note: Blue Badge holders will still need to register their vehicle.

MIDSUMMER MELODIES

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 19:38:08 GMT

MIDSUMMER MELODIES

Friday 27th June, 7pm at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Stubbington

An evening of songs and music followed by a bring and share supper. Everyone welcome.

(please see leaflet below).

Stella Maris

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 10:17:07 GMT

STELLA MARIS

SEA SUNDAY 12th & 13th July

Stella Maris (formerly called Apostleship of the Sea) is seeking one volunteer from this parish please to help with Sea Sunday on 12th and 13th July . This is the day when the Church comes together to pray for seafarers, fishers and their families, and takes a second collection to support the work of Stella Maris. The volunteer will read out the appeal (which Stella Maris will provide) at the end of Masses that weekend. If you can kindly do this, please contact roland.hayes@stellamarismail.org or call 07887 893 763.

TURIN SHROUD EXHIBITION

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 13:44:02 GMT

St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth. 1st - 14th June. Discovery Centre. Conference Room. 8am – 6pm

New scientific evidence suggests the Shroud dates to the 1st century. The exhibition will feature evidence revealed by historical and scientific research, explaining how the Shroud’s features align with Gospel accounts. Amazing!

2 YEAR CERTIFICATE IN CATECHESIS

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 13:34:38 GMT

The Dominican Sisters of St Joseph in Lymington are offering a 2-year Certificate in Catechesis to equip parish catechists, parents, and grandparents to transmit the Catholic faith to others. This Certificate is approved by the Bishops’ Conference, and offers a formation developed from the 2020 Directory for Catechesis, relevant to the pastoral context we face in our parishes. It is delivered online in weekly sessions with notes, recordings, and presentations made available to the students. It is comprehensive in its overview of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and in its practical application to all forms of catechesis. 2 in-person days are offered each year to build up the students’ community and fellowship in faith.

Apply now to begin your studies in September 2025

Download the brochure for further information. Visit; www.lightoftruth.uk/certificate

Parish Mission Weekend

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 23:14:40 GMT

PARISH MISSION WEEKEND - Ephphatha (ĕf'a-tha)

Friday 20th June through to Sunday 22nd June at SPH

A mini-mission led by world-renowned evangelist Michelle Moran of the Sion Community. A weekend to help us learn how to spread the Gospel to others.

Book your place now by scanning the QR code on the newsletter.

Contact Dcn Larry: lmurawski@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

Catering Saturday lunch - home-made soup, bread and fruit. Suggested an offering is made for lunch on the day.

Saturday Evening Parish Supper £16 p.person (subsidised) Wright Choice Catering. Please register for this to ensure we are catering for the correct number of people. If you are unsure please contact Dcn. Larry 07425 161 769.

Parish St Vincent De Paul Society (SVP)

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 20:50:14 GMT

PARISH ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY (SVP) The SVP are here to provide help, friendship and comfort. Everything we do is in strict confidence. Call us on 07435 880 190 any day between 8am & 6pm.

PARISH AUDIT - DIOCESAN GOVERNANCE TEAM

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 13:39:53 GMT

Our Pastoral Area is having a Support Visit by the Diocese in November. This is to discuss key topics from across the ‘People’ teams of Charity and Outreach, Governance, Human Resources and Safeguarding. To help the process on the day; parish groups will be asked to complete a previsit questionnaire. Clarinda Mansfield (St Mary’s Gosport Admin.) has kindly offered to mange this audit and will be contacting the groups through the local Church offices. The target is mid-September as completion date.

NATIONAL VOLUNTEERS’ WEEK - THANK YOU!

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 13:13:08 GMT

We want to pass on our grateful thanks to the countless volunteers who help our Parish community, in so many ways, with many hours of selfless service. God bless you all!

SIGNIFICANT WEDDING ANNIVERSARY MASS

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 12:21:57 GMT

Saturday 21st June 11am. St Bede’s Church, Basingstoke

Are you celebrating a 25th, 30th, 40th, 50th, 60th or anniversary over 60 years? If so, Bishop Philip would like to invite to a Mass of celebration. This will be followed by a buffet lunch. It is a wonderful occasion to celebrate and witness to Marriage.

Please contact the parish office or email: anniversaries@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

Knit and Natter

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 10:34:57 GMT

KNIT & NATTER

Tuesdays 1.30pm - 3.30pm at Sacred Heart Hall

All are welcome to come along. It is for those who enjoy to knit, crochet or sew (or those who would like to learn). Join us for a shared lunch.

Safe Spaces

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 08:48:09 GMT

Care and Support for Victims and Survivors

Safe Spaces is a free, independent support service, providing a confidential, personal and safe space for anyone who has been abused by someone in the church or as a result of their relationship with the Catholic Church of England and Wales, the Church of England or the Church in Wales. If you have been affected, however long ago, Safe Spaces can provide you with support.

You do not have to have told the police or the church authorities, and you do not have to still be involved with the church. Your information will not be shared without your consent unless you or someone else is in immediate danger.

You can contact the Safe Spaces team by: telephoning 0300 303 1056 (answerphone available outside of hours)

A VERY WARM WELCOME ...

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 19:14:53 GMT

To visitors and new parishioners of our parish community. Please make yourselves known to our Welcomers Team.

To Fr Benedikt Timpe who has been sent to help Cn John recovering from his injury and is with us until September.

To Fr David Conroy celebrating the Masses this weekend as Fr Benedikt is away honouring a cover in Reading.

SVP - Presidents 2024 Update

Sat, 31 May 2025 10:15:47 GMT

The Fareham SVP Conference had a busy year in 2024 and hit the ground running at the start of 2025. We currently have eleven full time members, two people are in the process of joining us and we are supporting 38 Beneficiaries in various ways – providing someone to chat with, helping with transport needs to hospital, doctors, dentists and shopping. If we can help, we will; if we can’t, we will signpost you to someone who can.

Overseas, we support some small projects in India and gave one-off support to the appeal for Grenada after the storm that almost wiped the island off the face of the earth. At home, we supported some families in our community with vouchers at Christmas, and donated hampers to families just before the children broke up for the summer holidays.

Sadly, one of our volunteers died this year, Ken Wilson, a true stalwart of SVP and within the parish. May he rest in peace.

Your SVP supported the Masses of Anointing, of Thanksgiving and for the elderly at Christmas. We arranged tea, cake and sandwiches after each Mass and were blessed at Christmas by St Jude's Choir who entertained our guests with a number of Christmas carols. As always, they did themselves proud and the guests really enjoyed themselves.

2024 was a great year and we look forward to 2025 bringing even more opportunities for us to help those in need. As always, we thank our fellow parishioners for all the support you provide, ranging from funding to contributions towards the party food we provide for our senior citizens and, of course, your prayers.

We intend to be support St Jude’s School again this summer and Christmas, and during the year we hope to spread our wings and reach out to Gosport, Stubbington and surrounding areas as part of the efforts to amalgamate the parishes. The project is currently in the planning stages, but I will update this website with more information as it becomes available.

Thank you all and God Bless all of you.

AWAKENING ADORATION - JESUS YOUTH

Fri, 23 May 2025 20:06:00 GMT

Fri 30th May 8pm through the night ‘til 8am Sat 31st May

Join us anytime through the vigil, through the night, or at dawn. We have witnessed lives being transformed through time and prayer in front of the Eucharistic Lord, and we have had countless stories of faith being renewed and refreshed. Silent adoration. All are welcome.

THE ASCENSION OF OUR LORD - Thursday 29th May

Fri, 23 May 2025 20:03:20 GMT

This is a Holy Day of Obligation - a specific feast day when the Catholic faithful are obliged to celebrate the Eucharist.

 Masses: 10am at Sacred Heart Church. 7.30pm at St Philip Howard Church.

Thank you from Cn. John

Fri, 23 May 2025 19:16:34 GMT

For the lovely Get Well cards and messages received after my accident. “The spirit is willing but the leg is weak”. No broken bones, just torn ligaments. Physio and patience...

Novena to the Holy Spirit

Fri, 23 May 2025 09:58:11 GMT

Fri 30th May - Sun 8th June. The Pentecost Novena is the first of all novenas (nine days of prayer) Acts 1:1-4. Please take a Novena booklet from the Foyer to help you undertake this devotion. Please pray for the Parish MiniMission weekend at the end of the month!

PRAYER, COME HOLY SPIRIT ...

Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful

and kindle in them the fire of your love.

V. Send forth your Spirit, and they shall be created.

R. And You shall renew the face of the earth.

Let us pray. O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful

by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the

same Spirit, we maybe always truly wise and ever rejoice

in His consolation, through Christ Our Lord. Amen

Health update of Cn. John

Thu, 15 May 2025 15:11:05 GMT

Health - Cn John:

Thank you for all the kind wishes and prayers following Cn John’s recent accident. Following X-rays, scans and an appointment with the consultant at QA it has been discovered that he has, as assumed, seriously damaged several ligaments in his right leg and has some detached bone from his knee too. Although he could have opted for surgery, he was advised to go for less risky but intensive physio as he is starting to regain movement. There will be a long (at least 12 weeks) recovery period to come. As he needs to rest his leg a lot, and is in such discomfort, Bishop Philip has appointed a priest to assist Fareham Parish until September.

Welcome - Fr Benedikt

Fr Benedikt Timpo moved into the presbytery this week and he will celebrate all the Masses this weekend, so please make him welcome as he settles in. Fr Benedikt will be with us until September. Going forward, Cn John will be able to celebrate some Masses and carry out some of the parish duties. He won’t be able to stand for all four of the weekend Masses and he is not allowed to drive either at the moment. Please bear with us during this time.

As Fr Benedikt has moved in already, he will celebrate Mass tomorrow Friday 16th May at 10am in Sacred Heart Church. All welcome!

DIOCESAN YOUTH PILGRIMAGE TO ROME

Sun, 11 May 2025 22:00:27 GMT

Led by Cn. PJ Smith - Episcopal Vicar for Education

28th July - 4th Aug. £1,350 incl. flights, accommodation, breakfast and dinner, travel in Rome, entrance and participation fees, a pilgrim pack and much more.

For info. Contact Cn PJ Smith. Tel; 07780 221 686 SPECIAL COLLECTIONS or email: portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

DIOCESAN YOUTH PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES

Sun, 11 May 2025 21:58:03 GMT

Led by Cn. PJ Smith - Episcopal Vicar for Education

7th to 11th July. £879 per person for a shared room. Youth pilgrims can travel at £825.

CMA CONNECT FAREHAM - THANK YOU!

Sun, 11 May 2025 21:43:37 GMT

“I would like to thank the parish for your very generous donation! During the lent appeal, you have raised an impressive amount, and we are so grateful for your support. CMA keeps helping clients, and I'm happy to report that we are welcoming several new volunteers to help us grow as well. We are getting closer to our goal of hiring a centre coordinator. We will be at Fareham’s Big Community Event on Saturday July 5 to share our work to the whole community, so please come and say hello”

Jean-Rémy Duboc, Chair of Trustees.

OPEN RCIA COFFEE MORNING

Sun, 11 May 2025 21:19:43 GMT

Saturday 17th May 10am until 11.30am Sacred Heart Church, Fareham.

Are you interested in knowing more about the Catholic faith? If you’re not a Catholic (or were baptised a Catholic and not confirmed), then come along and find out more about our course and chat to those who have taken part. There’s no obligation to sign up. For further information, call Dcn Larry on 07425 161 769 or email him at : lmurawski@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

“Habemus Papam!” We have a Pope

Fri, 09 May 2025 21:49:05 GMT

It’s true the word papacy is not in the Bible, but neither are the words Trinity or Bible found there. This argument assumes that all Christian doctrine is explicitly described in the Bible, even though this teaching itself is not found in Scripture. Catholics believe, on the other hand, that divine revelation comes from God’s Word given to us in written form (Sacred Scripture) and oral form (Sacred Tradition), both of which testify to the existence of the papacy.

According to Scripture, Christ founded a visible Church that would never go out of existence and had authority to teach and discipline believers (Matt. 16:18-19, 18:17). St. Paul tells us this Church is “the pillar and foundation of truth” (1 Tim. 3:15) and it was built on “the foundation of the apostles” (Eph. 2:20).

( to read further please check the newsletter )

You're Invited! Special Event - A Day of Renewal

Thu, 01 May 2025 22:55:19 GMT

Please join us for a mini-retreat of spiritual renewal either in person or live-streamed. Through our worship at Mass, Adoration, Prophetic reflection, Praise, Testimony and inspiring Talk, we will travel together as Pilgrims, moving forward with the guidance of the Holy Spirit; a firm trust in the victory of Christ; and joy in the blessings and gifts of the Holy Spirit for revitalising the Church.

This month’s guest speaker is popular conference speaker Jenny Baker , Leader of Celebrate Trust and well known for presenting CaFé formation DVD resources for parishes and schools. She also served as

Vice-Chair of the English Renewal Service.

Event Date: 31st May 2025 - 10:00am | St Philip Howard Church

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Additional Parish News

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 08:54:40 GMT

Additional parish news and updates

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Holy Hour Vocations

anthony@everydaychristianmarketing.co.uk (Anthony Evans) — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 21:21:51 GMT

HOLY HOUR FOR VOCATIONS Thursdays, 7pm - 8pm at Sacred Heart Church Please come and pray for much needed vocations.

MARION DEVOTIONS - Sacred Heart Church

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 12:59:29 GMT

Sundays in May 4pm - Rosary and Benediction. c. 40mins

JOIN CAFOD AND CARITAS

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 12:57:57 GMT

Saturday 10th May from 10am-1pm.

A joint celebration for the 10th anniversary of the publication of Laudato Si at St Peter’s, Winchester. Everyone welcome. The session will be packed with practical information and opportunity to ask questions on how we can make a difference in our lives and that of our parish, including CAFOD’s LiveSimply Award. More information and to register visit https://caritasportsmouth.org.uk

DIOCESAN FORMATION DAYS

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 12:45:54 GMT

Fr Anthony Fyk, Director of Liturgy Formation, will be running further formation days for ministries ...

FOR EXTRAORDINARY MINISTERS OF H. COMMUNION 3rd May 10am - 2pm at St Bede’s, Basingstoke Including a session on visiting the sick and housebound.

FOR MINISTERS OF CHILDREN’S LITURGY Saturday 7th June, further details to follow.

Enquires please contact; liturgy@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

DAY OF RENEWAL IN THE HOLY SPIRIT

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 12:27:55 GMT

Saturday 31st May, 10am-3.30pm, St Philip Howard Church

Adore will be hosting their live meeting ‘Pilgrims of Hope - Filled with Joy’. Mass, Adoration, Praise, Prayer and an inspiring talk by Jenny Baker, National Leader of the Celebrate Trust. Bring a picnic lunch. All welcome.

SILENT ADORATION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 12:16:50 GMT

Tues 10:30am - 12 noon Sacred Heart Ch. (not 22 April)

Thank you !Holy Week Liturgies

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 08:16:54 GMT

HOLY WEEK LITURGIES - ‘THANK YOU’

A very big thank you to our team of servers, led by Riona,

for all their support during Holy Week. With two long

practices and three long services to prepare for, the

Servers, Senior Team and Sacristans have given a lot of

themselves to assist the Liturgies. We are very blessed

with our Team and appreciate all the support of their

families facilitating their being here! Thank you to the

family sponsoring their Easter Eggs.

Lent: Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confessions)

Sat, 05 Apr 2025 23:04:58 GMT

SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION - CONFESSIONS

Thursdays in Lent. 10am

1st Saturday 10 - 11am. 2nd, 3rd, 4th Saturdays 5 - 6pm

PASTORAL AREA SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION

Our Lady & St John, Stubbington

During the week: 9am - 9:20am or after Mass

Saturday (Our Lady): 5:15pm - 5:45pm

St Mary, Gosport

Wednesday: 6:15pm - 6:45pm

Saturday: 12 noon - 1pm

St Margaret Mary, Park Gate

Saturday during Lent: 5-6pm

Joel's Bar

Sun, 23 Mar 2025 10:23:13 GMT

JOEL'S BAR

https://www.joelsbar.co.uk/joelsbar25

Sun 6th – Fri 11th April. Worth Abbey, Crawley.

A Young Adults ministry of CELEBRATE Trust, serving ages 18 -28! Our timetable of various ways to engage both with God and each other; Sacraments, Praise and Worship, Prayer Ministry, group discussion, workshops, sports, evenings of entertainment and lots of time to socialise and build community in our Cafe and Bar! Ticket includes full board accommodation. Info: www.joelsbar.co.uk/contact

Lent Appeal CMAconnectfareham

Sat, 22 Mar 2025 22:56:52 GMT

LENT APPEAL

CMACONNECTFAREHAM.ORG

CMA was started by Churches Together in Fareham We're a group of Christians who believe, even in the most difficult of times, there is hope for the future. We want to share that hope with anyone struggling with debt. CMA help anyone worried about money or debt to access free,

conﬁdential debt advice. The advisors CMA work with are approved by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

A Listening Ear

CMA are here to listen and talk through your worries with you. Our befrienders believe prayer changes situations, and are able to pray for and with you if you would like that.

Access to Free Advice

CMA Connect Fareham are part of a national charity offering access to free, confidential debt advice, whatever

a persons circumstances, background or faith.

Quiz Night - Thank you

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 23:19:35 GMT

QUIZ NIGHT - THANK YOU ...

To the Parish Social Group for a brilliant evening led by Quiz Master David Barnsley-Parsons for a fun, fast moving quiz and raﬄe. Thank you to all who sponsored the prizes and to everyone who came. Great atmosphere, raising funds for

our parish 150th Anniversary in 2028!

Messy Church

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 23:15:59 GMT

MESSY CHURCH 2nd Thursday of each month,

3.30 till 6.00pm at Portchester Methodist Church.

Crafts and activities, a short church service with singing and a home cooked meal. You and your child/children will be

very welcome. Just turn up!

Solent Pastoral Area Choir

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 23:12:50 GMT

SOLENT PASTORAL AREA CHOIR

Love to sing? Come and join this awesome choir - a great sound, so strong. Contact: davidcockshoot@gmail.com

Pastoral Area Conﬁrmation, Cathedral. Sat 7th June 11am.

Churches Together Portchester

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 23:08:26 GMT

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN PORTCHESTER

Lent Services Thursdays 13th Mar - 10th Apr. 12 Noon Followed by simple soup lunch. Donations shared between Christian Aid and CAFOD. All very welcome!

For details please contact Yvonne 02392 375 553.

Lent Extra - Picking a Thing For Lent

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 23:06:38 GMT

‘LENT EXTRA’ PICKING A THING FOR LENT

Don’t say you’re giving up watermelon when you know

you will hardly eat watermelon anyway; and don’t give up

hot showers if you know cold showers actually won’t help

you grow in holiness. We can easily fool ourselves into

thinking strictness equates to holiness.

Visit: ascensionpress.com/blogs/videos for ideas to help

Solent Pastoral Area (SPA)

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 23:03:17 GMT

SOLENT PASTORAL AREA (SPA) - An Update

As you may recall from the last Update before Christmas, the bishop has agreed that we should aim to establish the new parish envisaged in the Ten-year diocesan plan

by September 2026 - which is now “next year”! The Solent Pastoral Area Advisory Group (SPAAG) has started to make plans for this change and, to help in this work, 3 subgroups have been formed.

The St Peter Group will focus on the ongoing formation of the laity across the Pastoral Area. It will explore what parishioners feel they need and the topics, methods and resources that would best meet those needs.

The St Paul Group will focus on evangelisation in the wider community of our towns and will grow out of other mission eﬀorts such as the Zion mission happening in Fareham in June.

Finally, the St Matthew Group will address Pastoral Area ﬁnances, property and resources, working alongside parish Finance Chairs and the Diocesan Canon Lawyer (changes such as those proposed entail a lot of processes that are enshrined in Canon law).

More info. about the groups will be shared as and when it becomes available and, meanwhile, these SPA Updates

are now being shared across all our existing parishes.

Lent Extra Magazine

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 23:01:16 GMT

‘LENT EXTRA’ MAGAZINE - Your pilgrimage to Easter

The booklets are in the foyer of both churches.

They are £2.50 a copy.

Cafod Family Feast Day

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 22:59:59 GMT

CAFOD FAMILY FAST DAY

Friday 14th March

This Lent, CAFOD’s appeal will help hardworking people in northern Kenya where they faced more than 40 months of drought. CAFOD are helping with new ways to protect their crops suﬀering from the increasingly harsh climate.

You can also text CAFODLENT to 70085 to donate £10. Or you can use the Church Foyer Dona plate tab.

JOIN CAFOD’S BIG LENT WALK IN THE JUBILEE YEAR

Please join CAFOD’s Lent Walk as Pilgrims of Hope in this Jubilee Year - walking 200km over 40 days! Every £1 you raise will support communities like Lokho’s in Kenya, experiencing the worst impact of the climate crisis, to rebuild their lives in hope. Visit https://walk.cafod.org.uk/

Lent Groups - Christians Together Fareham

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 22:58:47 GMT

LENT GROUPS: CHRISTIANS TOGETHER IN FAREHAM

Meeting Jesus afresh in John’s Gospel’

The course starts in the week beginning 10th March and runs for 5 weeks. Each attendee will receive the course book at the ﬁrst session which will cost £5.00.

If you wish to join a group please contact Liz at: elizdunning@ntlworld.com by Friday 28th February.

CHRISTIANS TOGETHER IN FAREHAM - AGM.

Weds. 26th March. 7.30pm St Philip Howard Church.

World Youth Day Pilgrimage to Rome

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 15:52:59 GMT

Diocesan Youth Pilgrimage to Rome - Led by Cn PJ Smith.

Episcopal Vicar for Education

28th July - 4th Aug. £1,350 incl. ﬂights, accommodation, breakfast and dinner, travel in Rome, entrance and participation fees, a pilgrim pack and much more.

For info. Contact Cn PJ Smith. Tel; 07780 221 686

or email: youth@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

Lourdes Pilgrimage

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 10:04:57 GMT

LOURDES PILGRIMAGE ‘24 -

Led by Cn. PJ Smith - Episcopal Vicar for Educa��on

7th to 11th July. £879 per person for a shared room.

Youth pilgrims can travel at £825.

UCM Meeting

Sat, 08 Mar 2025 09:49:35 GMT

UNION OF CATHOLIC MOTHERS ‘UCM’ MEETING

Monday 17th March, 7pm at Sacred Heart Hall

From 7pm for coﬀee/tea with the meeting starting at

7.30pm and closing at 9pm. All are very welcome.

7am Dawn Mass - Thursdays in Lent

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 17:32:09 GMT

7am Dawn Mass Thursdays in Lent. Sacred Heart Church

Star��ng on Thursday 6th March. A simple Mass followed by a lovely breakfast in the Hall hosted by the UCM suppor��ng our Lent Appeal - CMA Connect Fareham

Lent Devotions

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 17:30:44 GMT

Lent Devotions

Statins of the Cross and Benedicton

Wednesday & Friday, 9:15am before Mass Sundays 4pm at Sacred Heart Church

A physical, mental, and spiritual devotion. Walking from staton to station, we think what happened in that station, unitng our sufferings with Christ’s.

Ash Wednesday 5th march

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 17:27:51 GMT

Ash Wednesday - 5th March
10am - Mass. Sacred Heart Church
1.30pm - St Jude's School Service. St Philip Howard Ch 7.30pm - Mass. St Philip Howard Church

Fastng The law of fastng requires that a Catholic between the ages of 18 - 60yrs eats only one full meal in a day, with no food in-between meals. It is understood that two other meals, if one eats three meals a day, should not total one full meal. Suggest one might fast in a more complete way, i.e., eatng only a porton of a single meal. (CCC 2043)

Abstnence means not to eat meat. Its purpose is to be an act of sacrifice, that helps us grow in freedom to make much bigger sacrifices. It would not make sense to make the sacrifice of not eatng meat, and then eat a wonderful meal I might enjoy even more.

Parish Mission Event

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 21:17:31 GMT

PARISH MISSION WEEKEND - Ephphatha (ĕf'a-tha)

Friday 20th June through to Sunday 22nd June at SPH

A mini-mission of inspiring talks, uplifting worship and

practical workshops, led by world-renowned evangelist

Michelle Moran of the Sion Community. A weekend to

help us open our eyes and ears to the Gospel message

and learn how to spread it to others.

Churches Together

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 11:04:04 GMT

CHURCHES TOGETHER / CHRISTIANS TOGETHER

World Day of Prayer: Friday, 7th March

2pm & 7pm. St Phillip Howard Church

2.15pm Portchester Methodist Church

Parish Ecology Group

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 09:42:27 GMT

PEG ‘PARISH ECOLOGY GROUP’

APPEAL FOR VOLUNTEERS

Please contact John Vivian: franciscansolent@outlook.com

A Parish Reminder - Including the youth

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 11:00:15 GMT

A REMINDER FOR ALL, INCLUDING THE YOUTH OF

THE PARISH.

The collected comments from the Solent Pastoral Area

meetngs about the 10 Year Plan are displayed in the halls

of Sacred Heart and St. Philip Howard.

Your responses to them are important, please post them

in one of the boxes which will soon be placed in the halls.

Parish Quiz Night

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 10:58:33 GMT

SOCIAL AND FUNDRAISING - Quiz Night!

Fri 21st February, 7pm for 7.30 start

with Quizmaster David Barnsley-Parsons

Do come and support our Quiz Night! Just £3 per person.

There are sign up sheets at both churches or email the

Parish office. All funds raised will go towards our 150th

Anniversary celebrations.

Thank you Msgr Vincent

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 10:47:34 GMT

THANK YOU To Msgr. Vincent for celebra��ng Mass for us

while Cn John is away on retreat.

Our Parish Survey

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 14:42:19 GMT

Important: We need your help! Please help us to further develop the parish mission by completing the Unmute - Parish Survey

Looking Ahead - Dates

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 10:50:08 GMT

LOOKING AHEAD - Dates ...

Ash Wednesday: 5th March (in c. 6 weeks)

4th Sunday of Lent (Mother’s Day): 30th March Palm Sunday: 13th April

Easter Sunday: 20th April

Rosary in a year podcast

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 10:45:52 GMT

THE ROSARY IN A YEAR - PODCAST

With Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, CFR

If you've ever struggled to build a habit of prayer, this pod- cast is for you. Fr. Mark-Mary guides listeners in a step-by- step journey that will change the way you pray – no matter where you are in your spiritual life. By starting small and adding on over time, listeners will ﬁnd themselves falling more in love with this powerful Marian devotion, becoming a source of grace for the whole world.

Listen to discover; How to build a daily habit of prayer, How to form a relationship with Jesus and Mary, The Bibli- cal foundations of the Rosary, How to meditate with sacred art (visio divina), Saint writings, and Scripture (lectio divina) The power of Mary’s inﬂuence in your life … and more.

Visit: https://ascensionpress.com/riy.

A reminder for all

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 10:44:40 GMT

A REMINDER FOR ALL, INCLUDING THE YOUTH OF

THE PARISH .

The collected comments from the Solent Pastoral Area meetings about the 10 Year Plan are displayed in the halls of Sacred Heart and St. Philip Howard.

Your responses to them are important, please post them in

one of the boxes which will soon be placed in the halls.

Feasting on the Word of God

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 10:43:17 GMT

“FEASTING ON THE WORD OF GOD”

Friday mornings starting from 14th Feb at SHH

In his 6 Holy Habits the Bishop encourages us to read

scripture and also to join a group for continuing formation.

A new Scripture Group is coming to you soon! Please join us on Friday mornings at about 11.30am following coﬀee after Mass.

The aim is to spend time reading scripture and to then

discuss it. We look forward to seeing you.

Thank you to Msgr. Vincent

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 10:39:00 GMT

THANK YOU

To Msgr. Vincent for celebrating Mass for us

while Cn John is away leading a Vocations Roadshow.

Please pray for much needed vocations to the priesthood.

Social and Fund Raising

Sat, 25 Jan 2025 16:06:39 GMT

SOCIAL AND FUNDRAISING

Quiz Night! Fri 21st February

with Quizmaster David Barnsley-Parsons

Request please for donations for the raﬄe. Do you have any unwanted toiletry gift sets, bottles of strange liqueurs or boxes of chocolates that would love a new home? Please drop them oﬀ at the Parish oﬃce.

We would like to establish a 100 CLUB as part of the fundraising initiative. If you would like to take part please

email the Parish Oﬃce. More details to follow!

Dates for your Diary

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 15:24:27 GMT

THE WEEK AHEAD Diary - at a glance ...

Sun 12th 2pm ‘Teams of Our Lady’ meeting - SH.Hall Sacred Heart Hall.

Tues 14th 9.30am Toddlers Group - St Philip Howard Hall

10.30 -12 Adoration - SH Church

2 - 4pm Knit & Natter - SH.Hall

Weds 15th 11am Funeral family meeting

7-9pm RCIA Sycamore ‘The Eucharist - Meal’

Thurs 16th 3-5pm Solent Clergy Meeting - SH.

7-8pm Holy Hour for Vocations

Sat 18th 10am First Eucharist - St MM Park Gate

Sun 19th Octave of Prayer for Christian Unity 18th - 25th Jan

4pm Unity Service, Holy Trinity Ch, West St.

At Masses SPUC White Flower Appeal

Tues 21st 10.30 -12 Adoration - SH Church

4pm Reception & Vigil - Mary Payne RIP

Wed 22nd 11am Requiem Mass - Mary Payne RIP

7-9pm RCIA Sycamore ‘Forgiveness’

Thurs 23rd 11am Sion Community Mtg. Michelle Moran

7-8pm Holy Hour for Vocations

Fri 24th 7-8.30pm Confirmation Chosen Gp. - St PH Hall ‘The four last things’

Sat 25th 11am-3pm “Seeker Saturday” Sacred Heart Church

Sun 26th Church Health and Safety Mtg.

JESUS’ BAPTISM

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 15:09:53 GMT

On this Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, let us meditate on John the Baptist. Young John, the son of the priest Zechariah, grew up in and around the Temple, acquainted with its rituals. And he sensed that the true Messiah was on the horizon. And so he went away from the old temple, but he continued to act as a priest of a new Temple. John was baptizing people in the Jordan. Why this ritual? Well, in the Jerusalem Temple, a pilgrim would cleanse himself in a mikvah, a ritual bath, before he entered to make sacrifice. John was acting as a priest, and the River Jordan was his mikvah! But what - or, beƩer, who - was the new Temple? Jesus, who came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John. The heavens were torn open and the Spirit, like a dove, descended on him. This is “temple talk.” When the high priest entered into the Holy of Holies, he was entering into the heavenly realm. The Holy of Holies was the place where the “heavens were torn open” and a humble human being could enter. So the point is that Jesus is himself the new Holy of Holies.

Adapted: Word on Fire.org

Important Events - Dates for your Diary

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 10:51:55 GMT

SOCIAL AND FUNDRAISING

Sacred Heart Church’s Sesquicentennial (150th) Sept. ‘28

We have lots of fundraising events planned so please put these dates in your diary:

à Quiz Night. Fri 21st February

Request for donations for the raﬄe. Do you have any unwanted toiletry gift sets, bottles of strange liqueurs or boxes of chocolates that would love a new home? Please drop them oﬀ at the Parish oﬃce.

à Parish BBQ. Sat 28th June

à Race Night. Fri 17th October

Many hands make light work so if you have any time to spare please join in with the facilitation of these events and help them grow.

We would like to establish a 100 CLUB as part of the fundraising initiative. If you would like to take part please

email the Parish Oﬃce. More details to follow!

Teams for Marriage

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 10:30:33 GMT

TEAMS INFORMATION MEETING

Sunday 12 ^th January at 2pm, Sacred Heart Hall.

Teams is a way for married couples to enrich their marriages. Growing closer to each other and closer to God. Come and ﬁnd out more…. we can be contacted at

ap@teamsgb.org.uk or on 07747016102

Thank you - Christmas Cribb Offering

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 10:29:06 GMT

THANK YOU - CHRISTMAS CRIB OFFERINGS

www.friendsoftheholyland.org.uk/Appeal/christmas

Thank you for the phenomenal response to the Advent Appeal, Parish UCM Dawn Mass Breakfasts, Carols Service and Crib oﬀering of £4,386 supporting Friends of the Holy Land helping the remarkable Christians who continue to

serve so bravely in Bethlehem...

The Jubilee Year of Hope

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 10:25:28 GMT

THE JUBILEE YEAR OF HOPE - 2025

Hope is the theological virtue by which we desire the kingdom of heaven and eternal life as our happiness, placing our trust in Christ’s promises and relying not on our own strength, but on the help of the grace of the Holy Spirit” Catechism 1817.

Pope Francis said “Christian hope does not deceive or disappoint because it is grounded in the certainty that nothing and no one may ever separate us from God’s love”.

Each Diocese is permitted to establish ‘Shrine Churches’ where the faithful can go on pilgrimage, attend Mass and receive the Sacrament of Penance, and at the same time gain a Plenary Indulgence under the usual conditions. Our Shrine Churches on the mainland are: St. John’s Cathedral in Portsmouth, St. James’s Reading, Sacred Heart

Bournemouth and St. Edmund’s Southampton.

Diocesan Youth Pilgrimage to Rome - Led by Cn PJ Smith.

28th July - 4th Aug. £1,350 incl. flights, accommodat i on, breakfast and dinner, travel in Rome, entrance and part i cipat i on fees, a pilgrim pack and much more. For more info: youth@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

Urgent Church Cleaners - Sacred Heart

Sat, 11 Jan 2025 20:54:31 GMT

URGENT - SACRED HEART CHURCH CLEANERS

Wednesdays 1pm - 2pm or Mon 10am - 11am

A big thank you to the Teams cleaning Sacred Heart Church

especially a��er the foo��all of Christmas and New Year.

We have a constant flow of visitors, please can we ask for

more volunteers to help with the church cleaning, rather

that leaving it to Cn John and the faithful few.

For more info please contact the Parish Office.

Thank you from Canon John

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 22:32:40 GMT

Thank you for your Christmas cards and gifs with some really lovely messages. A personal thanks to all who give so generously of their tme and their talents for the parish. A very happy Christmas and many blessings for 2025. Cn. John

Chosen Confirmation Group

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 20:57:05 GMT

‘CHOSEN’ CONFIRMATION GROUP

Session: Fri 10th Jan, 7pm at St Philip Howard Church

Conﬁrmation Celebration! Sat 7th June 11am - Cathedral

JUBILEE HOLY YEAR INDULGENCES

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 15:49:46 GMT

THE JUBILEE YEAR OF HOPE - 2025

Hope is the theological virtue by which we desire the

kingdom of heaven and eternal life as our happiness,

placing our trust in Christ’s promises and relying not on our

own strength, but on the help of the grace of the Holy

Spirit” Catechism 1817. Pope Francis said “Chris��an hope

does not deceive or disappoint because it is grounded in the

certainty that nothing and no one may ever separate us

from God’s love”. Each Diocese is permi��ed to establish

‘Shrine Churches’ where the faithful can go on pilgrimage,

a��end Mass and receive the Sacrament of Penance, and at

the same ��me gain a Plenary Indulgence under the usual

condi��ons. Our Shrine Churches on the mainland are:

St. John’s Cathedral in Portsmouth, St. James’s Reading,

Sacred Heart Bournemouth and St. Edmund’s Southampton.

In the Bull of Indiction, Pope Francis explains indulgences and their importance in our spiritual lives: “We know from personal experience, every sin ‘leaves its mark.’ Sin has consequences, not only outwardly in the effects of the wrong we do, but also inwardly, inasmuch as ‘every sin, even venial, entails an unhealthy attachment to creatures, which must be purified either here on earth, or after death, in the state called Purgatory. In our humanity, weak and attracted by evil, certain residual effects of sin remain. These are removed by the indulgence, always by the grace of Christ, who, as St Paul VI wrote, ‘is himself our “indulgence

A very warm welcome

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 22:45:00 GMT

A VERY WARM WELCOME

... to students back on holiday, family members who have

been away, to visitors and to new parishioners. Welcome!

Holy Communion / Prayer of Blessing . If you are not a

Catholic, or not receiving the Eucharist please come

forward in the procession, place one hand on your chest

with your head slightly bowed and the celebrant / minister

will know to pray a short prayer of Blessing for you.

Crib Offerings

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 22:29:21 GMT

CRIB OFFERINGS - Friends of the Holy Land.

www.friendso��heholyland.org.uk/Appeal/christmas

Suppor��ng Chris��ans in Bethlehem where roadblocks have

replaced Christmas trees in the streets and children search

the sky not for stars but for war planes. Though Christmas

celebra��ons may be cancelled in Bethlehem, our brothers

and sisters there share our hope in Christ, which is very

much alive. With your help, we can ensure that hope shines

brightly through the remarkable Chris��ans who con��nue to

serve so bravely. Right now, our brothers and sisters are

suffering, and they are scared. By suppor��ng our Christmas

appeal, you can help our local team to respond quickly and

effec��vely to the unfolding catastrophe.

Make Way for Christmas - The Gift

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 16:00:21 GMT

‘MAKE WAY FOR CHRISTMAS - THE GIFT’

THIS Friday 13th December, 7pm.

at The Immaculate Conception Church.

Bells Lane, Stubbington. PO14 2PL

An Advent Service led by the choirs of our 4 parishes.

A huge thank you to everyone making this happen.

CAROLS & READINGS SERVICE & MASS TIMES

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 15:56:29 GMT

CAROLS & R EADINGS SERVICE followed by refreshments

Sunday 22nd December 3pm. At St Philip Howard Church

CHRISTMAS MASS TIMES

Christmas Eve - Tuesday 24th December

5pm St Philip Howard Church Vigil Mass

9pm Sacred Heart Church (Midnight Mass)

Christmas Day - Wednesday 25th December

9am Sacred Heart Church (Dawn Mass)

11am St Philip Howard Church (Day Mass)

Important: The Assisted Dying Bill

Sat, 14 Dec 2024 22:11:30 GMT

News Update:

WE CAN STILL DEFEAT ASSISTED SUICIDE!

There is a clear path toward the assisted suicide Bill being defeated at Third Reading. Early analysis shows that at least 36 MPs supported the Bill but have concerns that mean they may vote NO at later stages.

Just 28 MPs switching their stance to NO would ensure it is defeated. We need MPs to know that their constituents want them to vote NO at Third Reading. Please take action now by visiting www.righttolife.org.uk

The Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales released a statement in response to the Assisted Suicide Bill on 15 November 2024.”

Please view the important letter below

Previous Articles:

THE ASSISTED SUICIDE BILL

This bill will be voted on by MPs on 29th November. We know that assisted suicide laws in other jurisdictions have had devastating consequences for the poor, disabled and marginalised. This is the biggest threat to the vulnerable in a decade, and we need a huge effort to lobby MPs to vote against the bill. Please urgently contact your MP and ask him/her to vote against the bill. You can contact your MP by visiting www.livesworthliving.org.uk or write to him/her at: House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA or complete one of the cards available at the back of the church.

NIGHT VIGIL FOR THE DEFEAT OF THIS BILL

Wed 20th Nov. 9pm overnight to Thurs. 21st Nov. , 9am

St John's Church in Lee-on-the-Solent. PO13 9AS

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

May God bless us all, bless our countries, and bless those who make our laws with the courage to embrace and uphold a culture of life.

CTIF CAROL SINGING AT THE PODIUM

Sat, 14 Dec 2024 16:01:38 GMT

Sat. 21st Dec 10.30-11.30am. Please pray for dry weather!

Come and join us on the day to hand out treats, donate to the Basics Bank and sing Carols in preparation for Christ's birth. Would like to help? Contact: sue.hall@htscf.org.uk

Advent Appeal

Sat, 14 Dec 2024 10:45:16 GMT

ADVENT APPEAL - Friends of the Holy Land.

www.friendsoftheholyland.org.uk/Appeal/christmas

Supporting Christians in Bethlehem where roadblocks have replaced Christmas trees in the streets and children search the sky not for stars but for war planes. Though Christmas celebrations may be cancelled in Bethlehem, our brothers and sisters there share our hope in Christ, which is very much alive. With your help, we can ensure that hope shines brightly through the remarkable Christians who continue to serve so bravely. Right now, our brothers and sisters are suffering, and they are scared. By supporting our Christmas appeal, you can help our local team to respond quickly and effectively to the unfolding catastrophe.

ADVENT APPEAL

This year, we will be supporting the Fareham & Gosport Basics Bank created by the Christian charity “Friends of the Homeless” in 2003).

Their aim is to provide short term practical support to anyone in a crisis or emergency situation who cannot afford to buy food. In the last 12 months they have provided parcels to last seven days for around 7000 people. This is over 200,000 items of food and toiletries.

Not only do they provide practical help, but they also;

• Encourage and assist homeless people in their search for accommodation

• Work in partnership with other voluntary and statutory agencies to continually improve and develop facilities for homeless people and those needing short term help in the local area

• Raise awareness of the problems the homeless and other vulnerable people have to face

For more info and an up to date shopping list of items they need, visit www.friendsofthehomeless.org.uk

Donations to the Advent Appeal can be by cash, cheque or BACS with the ref “Advent Appeal” or using the Dona Card Reader plates in both church foyers. Thank you!

SVP Mass Annointing

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 11:59:07 GMT

SVP - MASS OF ANOINTING

Wed 7th May, 1:30pm at St Philip Howard Hall

All are welcome to join our Mass of AnoinƟng followed by refreshments in the hall. Please pass this invitation on to anyone who might otherwise not see it. If you need help with transport, please leave a voicemail on the SVP phone 07435 880 190.

Make Way for Christmas

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 10:48:11 GMT

‘MAKE WAY FOR CHRISTMAS’

Friday 13th December, 7pm.

At Immaculate Conception Church.

Bells Lane, Stubbington. PO14 2PL

An Advent Service led by the choirs and musicians from the four parishes in our Solent Pastoral Area based on The Gift by Graham Kendrick. Put this date in your diary, it’s a really joyful event!

Blessings for your Crib's Bambino

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 10:19:16 GMT

BLESSING OF YOUR CRIB’S BAMBINO

Third Sunday of Advent - 15th/16th December

The Church has a beautiful tradition of Blessing the Christ Child figurines that are placed in our home manger scenes. We invite you to bring the Christ Child (Bambino) from your own crib to be blessed at any Mass on the Third Sunday of Advent. This wonderful tradition originates in the papacy of Pope St. John Paul II.

SPA Meeting Feedback

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 09:47:31 GMT

Feedback from the meetings held in all the parishes of the Pastoral Area in early autumn 2024 can be found here

Altar Server Training

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 09:35:12 GMT

ALTAR SERVERS’ TRAINING

Friday 6th December 5.30 - 7pm (with pizzas!)

At St Philip Howard Church. Led by Faith and Bethany.

A refresher for our wonderful team of altar servers and those who are new / interested - in Yr 3+. Welcome!

Volunteers Sewer / Crafter

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 10:19:23 GMT

VOLUNTEER SEWER / CRAFTER

To support the Children’s Liturgy in understanding the Jubilee year, we wonder if there is a crafter who could make a “Luce” mascot doll. Luce is latin for ‘Light’. Luce is a pilgrim, with a rain jacket, dirty wellington boots and big bright eyes. The point is to encourage us to be on pilgrimage! For details please ask Paul O’Beirne

Lady's Fellowship

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 09:33:39 GMT

LADIES’ FELLOWSHIP GROUP - New!

Second Wednesdays, 7.30pm at St PH Hall

Join our ladies group, getting to know each other, sharing

our faith, and growing deeper in our relationship with the

Lord. Every woman is so welcome - no age limit applies.

Red Wednesday

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 19:19:21 GMT

Red Wednesday “Persecuted Christians”

Aid to the Church in Need | #RedWednesday: Break the Silence

Christian Unity Service

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 10:30:34 GMT

Christian Unity Service

Fri 19th January, 4pm at Holy Trinity Church, Fareham.

Revd Lou Collins, the curate at St John’s church, Fareham,

has been asked to create a team to lead this service. It is a

wonderful opportunity to pray and worship together. It

would be great to have a team in place by 28th Nov.

Please get in touch with the Parish office if you would like

to join them to put together this service.

Simbang Gabi

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 10:23:20 GMT

SIMBANG GABI

Fri 20th December 7:00pm, St Mary's Church Gosport

Simbang Gabi is a beloved Filipino Christmas tradition

that welcomes the spirit of joy and love as we await Christ's birth. Everyone is welcome.

The Mass will be led by Fr Jufel Baldado. After the Mass, Filipino food will be available in the hall.

Conversation Group

Sat, 16 Nov 2024 12:04:53 GMT

CONVERSATION GROUP

Every other Thurs, 2pm-3.30pm, Sacred Heart Hall

Do you have APHASIA or communication difficulties after a stroke? Come and join our friendly Conversation Group to share a chat and have a relaxing afternoon.

Next meeting: Thursday 28th November

Donation of £2.00, drink included!

For info. please contact Angela at: amnally65@gmail.com

Jubilee Prep - Holy Hour in Gosport

Sat, 16 Nov 2024 10:21:55 GMT

JUBILEE PREP - HOLY HOUR IN GOSPORT

St Mary's is holding themed Holy Hours in preparation for the Jubilee year. This is on Thursdays at 7:00pm. Everyone is invited to join Fr Matthew. 21 Nov. - Jubilee 28 Nov - Theme: Vocation 05 Dec. - Justice 12 Dec - Theme: Marriage and Family.

SVP Grenada Hurricane Appeal

Sat, 16 Nov 2024 09:34:19 GMT

PARISH SVP APPEAL - ‘FAMILY CHRISTMAS ASSISTANCE’

Collection after Mass - Sunday 17th November

For much needed monetary donations to support local

families in need. Please use the Dona Card readers in the

foyer. Thank you for your generosity.

St Jude's School Mass

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 22:04:27 GMT

ST JUDE’S SCHOOL MASS

Weds. 6th November 1.30pm St Philip Howard Ch

All are very welcome to join us as we honour our patron!

Make Way for Christmas

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 21:40:11 GMT

‘MAKE WAY FOR CHRISTMAS’

Friday 13th December, 7pm.

At Immaculate Conception Church.

Bells Lane, Stubbington. PO14 2PL

An Advent Service led by the choirs and

musicians from the four parishes in our

Solent Pastoral Area based on The Gift by

Graham Kendrick. Put this date in your

diary, it’s a really joyful event!

Christmas Chocolate Appeal

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 21:39:06 GMT

Please bring in any donations of chocolate tubs to the

Parish office by Friday 14th Dec. to support our seafarers.

Social Fundraising Committee

Sat, 02 Nov 2024 21:21:43 GMT

‘SOCIAL & FUNDRAISING’ COMMITTEE - NEW

Meeting Fri 15th Nov, 7.30pm at Sacred Heart Hall

It would be wonderful to set up a Social and Fundraising

group to create more opportunities for mixing and

mingling - especially as we welcome new faces to our

parish community. (We need to spread the load with the

organisation as we need to be mindful of the various

health and safety/risk assessments involved with such

events in order to satisfy our church insurers etc.)

However, these are not insurmountable and there are

guidelines to help our groups! Above all, a great way to

build community and supporting our parish mission and

other charitable endeavours. Come and join us!

Cemetery Prayers - Sunday 3rd November

Sat, 02 Nov 2024 21:18:31 GMT

Cemetery Prayers Sunday 3rd November

3pm Wickham Road Cemetery, Fareham.

3pm Roman Grove Cemetery, Portchester.

A special 10 minute service - then to family graves for

short prayer and blessing. Bring a tealight in an old jam

jar to leave by family/friends’ graves.

Solent Pastoral Area & Parish

Sat, 02 Nov 2024 10:07:54 GMT

SOLENT PASTORAL AREA & PARISH

Feedback from meetings - and a new PPC

Bishop Philip visited the Pastoral Area on Tues 29 October

to hear from the Solent Pastoral Area Advisory Group

(SPAAG) about our progress in implementing the greater

integration of our four parishes called for in the diocesan

Ten Year Plan. After a busy 2-hour discussion he was very

positive about what we are doing and was particularly

pleased that our plan is more focussed on the

empowerment of evangelisation rather than just the

finances. In his feedback he said that he sensed a real

momentum in the way that we are already working

together. We owe a huge debt of thanks to the SPAAG

and especially to the chair, Andy Jordan, for all the time

and effort he has invested in steering this process.

The feedback from the parish meetings held recently in all

four parishes has now been gathered into a single

document with parishioners’ comments grouped together

under common themes. These results will now be made

available so that you can see what was said in our parish -

and in the other parishes as well. The feedback runs to

many pages so it will probably be displayed in the church

halls, and for those who wish to study the remarks at their

leisure, it will also be available on the parish website.

Watch out for a new website page dedicated to the “Solent

Pastoral Area”.

At our Parish Meetings some people raised questions

about the Evangelisation Strategy Team – what was it for?

who were the members? and so on. Originally set up to

support the parish priest in determining ways to develop

news ways to evangelise, its activities have expanded way

beyond this remit (especially since the publication of the

diocesan Ten Year Plan) so, at its latest meeting, it was

decided that the group’s name should be changed to

reflect what it really does – it is really a Parish Pastoral

Council (PPC) – and will be known as such with immediate

effect. This was a timely decision because one of the

strong recommendations of the Bishops’ Synod in Rome

last week was that Pastoral Councils should be a

mandatory requirement in all local churches globally.

To help ensure that parishioners know what the PPC is

doing, a short report will be made available after each

meeting for you to access in whatever is your preferred

method – on noticeboards, on the website, and in hard

copy. To address one of the other queries from the parish

meetings about who was representing the parish on this

group, photos are being taken of all members so that

boards with named photos can be placed in both

churches. They should be ready sometime during

SOLENT PASTORAL AREA & PARISH UPDATE

What comes after the Parish Meetings?

Thank you to the nearly 100 parishioners who attended one of the parish meetings to hear about the issues facing the diocese and to share their views about the future direc-tion of the Solent Pastoral Area. Our three neighbouring parishes have held similar meetings and there are many common themes running through parishioners’ comments although, of course, there are also differences which reflect local considerations.

Our parish comments have been gathered together and, to ensure that everyone is kept “in the picture”, a response is being worked up to each of the points raised. Once that has been done (no later than mid-November) the com-ments and responses will be shared with all parishioners.

The Bishop will be visiting the Pastoral Area on Tuesday 29th October to talk with the parish priests and

members of the Solent Pastoral Area Advisory

Group to discuss how our plans are progressing

and to offer his thoughts, support and guidance.

Remember – the Diocesan Plan can be found on our website at https://www.catholicchurchfareham.org.uk/Portsmouthdiocesenews

---------------------------------

SOLENT PASTORAL AREA & PARISH

Parish Open Meetings Fri 27th Sept & Sat 5th Oct

At St Philip Howard Church Hall

This Friday (27th at 7.30pm) sees the first of two important

parish meetings where we will all have a chance to share

our views about how we should take forward the Diocesan

Ten Year plan in the Solent Pastoral Area. Don’t expect a

“great reveal” telling us what the answers are because

there are none as yet. These meetings are a step on the

process of working it all out and they give us an opportunity

to hear a brief summary of the issues we face, and then the

chance to share our thoughts on what we want the future

Pastoral Area to look like.

Like the meetings being held in Park Gate, Stubbington and

Gosport, these gatherings are a great example of the

listening church that the Pope wants us to be - walking

together on a Synodal path whose purpose is “to involve all

the baptised”. And this means that we all have a

responsibility for contributing to the plan that needs to be

developed to bring the four communities on the Fareham-

Gosport peninsula closer together. So ...

Please put Friday 27th September at 7.30pm or Sat 5th

October at 10.30am in your diary and come prepared to

share your views and shape the future of YOUR parish.

The Diocesan Plan can be found on our website at

https://www.catholicchurchfareham.org.uk/

Portsmouthdiocesenews

All Saints Day

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 20:51:28 GMT

ALL SAINTS’ DAY Friday 1st November

A holy day of obligation

An Evening of Autumn Music

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 21:28:48 GMT

AN EVENING OF AUTUMN MUSIC

Wednesday 23rd October at 7pm

Hymns & Songs with an Autumn theme led by the Choir at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, Stubbington. For info: music@ourladyandstjohn.co.uk

Social Fundraising Committee

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 21:18:38 GMT

‘SOCIAL & FUNDRAISING’ COMMITTEE - NEW

Meeting Fri 15th Nov, 7.30pm at Sacred Heart Hall

It would be wonderful to set up a Social and Fundraising group to create more opportunities for mixing and mingling - especially as we welcome new faces to our parish community. (We need to spread the load with the organisation as we need to be mindful of the various health and safety/risk assessments involved with such events in order to satisfy our church insurers etc.) However, these are not insurmountable and there are guidelines to help our groups! Above all, a great way to build community and supporting our parish mission and other charitable endeavours. Come and join us!

Parish Evangelisation Strategy Group (ESG)

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 21:25:03 GMT

PARISH EST (Evangelisation Strategy Group) MTG

Tues 22nd October, 7.30pm at Sacred Heart Hall

Focusing on shaping the responses to accompany comments from the two Parish Open Meetings about the Bishop’s 10 Year plan and the implications for our Solent Pastoral Area. A big thank you to our Chair, Andy Jordan, leading the two meetings and facilitating the discussions. Thank you also to everyone who was able to take part.

Sycamore Adult Pathway

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 21:23:15 GMT

SYCAMORE ADULT PATHWAY IN FAITH Wednesdays 7pm for 7.30pm at Sacred Heart Hall

Looking for answers about the Catholic faith? If you are not a Catholic, or you know someone who isn’t, then we have the perfect course to be part of. We will talk about the existence of God, how God speaks to us, the person of Jesus, Mary, the Sacraments and many other key beliefs and teachings of the Catholic Church. Interested?

Please contact Dcn Larry and Yvette Murawski on lmurawski@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

St Philip Howard Car Park

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 21:19:56 GMT

ST PHILIP HOWARD CAR PARK

Please note this is a private car park and is for parishioner use only and for use of our parents who are dropping off /picking up from St Jude’s, our Parish School.

Diocesan Safeguarding

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 09:54:19 GMT

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DIOCESE SAFEGUARDING TRAINING

Saturda y 9th Nov, 09.45 - 3.00pm at SPHH

Parish volunteer roles requiring a DBS clearance also require Safeguarding training every 2 years.

The Diocesan Team are leading this face to face training (open to all Parishes in the Solent Pastoral Area) Coﬀee will be provided, please bring your own lunch.

A whole day session will cover:

Child Protection 10:00 – 12:00. Arrive 9:45am

Adults at Risk 13:00 – 15:00. Arrive 13:00pm

To book onto one or both of the sessions, or if you have any queries regarding your Safeguarding training status, please contact:

Stephanie Campbell - Parish Safeguarding Minister: safeguarding.fare@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

Additional News Updates

Sat, 05 Oct 2024 09:48:56 GMT

Additional news updates released for this weekend

More Here

Parish Bereavement Group (Bethany)

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 20:52:09 GMT

PARISH BEREAVEMENT “BETHANY” GROUP

Thurs 17th October 10am at Sacred Heart Hall

For anyone who has lost a loved one.

A warm, welcoming and safe space to be …

For more info: sacredheart.bethany@gmail.com

Service - Transitus of St Francis

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 09:34:15 GMT

SERVICE FOR TRANSITUS OF ST FRANCIS

Thurs 3rd October 6pm at Sacred Heart

Transitus is the annual celebration by Franciscans

throughout the world of the passing of St. Francis from

this life to life with God. Certain prayers or writings of St.

Francis and accounts from his early biographers are

common. Since Francis spoke of dying as embracing

Sister Death, the ritual is solemn but not sad and inspires

the participants to richly live the Gospel until the end of

their days. It is celebrated on the eve of his feast day. The

word “transitus” comes from the Latin, meaning passage

or crossing.

For info. contact Esme & John: esmefvivian5@gmail.com

Training for New Readers

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 09:02:12 GMT

DIOCESAN FORMATION DAY FOR READERS

Sat 19th October, 10.30am - 2.00pm

St Bede’s Church/Hall in Basingstoke.

Fr Anthony Fyk, is running a formation day for readers

All readers are encouraged to make time to attend this

event which is being provided specifically for your

formation. Please register

at: liturgy@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk.

Cafod's Live Simply Award

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 08:58:32 GMT

CAFOD’S HARVEST FAMILY FAST DAY APPEAL

Friday 4th October

Your donations to this appeal will help people like Daniel,

a carpenter from Goma, with resources and tools to help

support his family

Welcome and Thank you

Sat, 28 Sep 2024 10:31:48 GMT

To Msgr. Vincent Harvey who will be celebrating Mass for

us on Sat 5th/Sun 6th October.

Additionally News

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 09:30:24 GMT

Our latest news and additions for the parish - view them here

Focus on Mission

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 09:46:13 GMT

SOLENT PASTORAL AREA & PARISH

ACTS 2:46-47 UNITED IN CHRIST.

Gosport & Bridgemary, Lee & Stubbington,

Park Gate and Fareham & Portchester

OUR FOCUS ON MISSION both to, and with, a wider

community is set to grow.

Hopefully you have seen the notes in the newsletters and

heard Cn John speak at Mass, about the changes outlined in

the Diocesan Ten-Year Plan. For us locally, the Plan

proposes that the Solent Pastoral Area (SPA) made up of

the four parishes on the Fareham-Gosport peninsula should

share their resources, talents and services with each other.

How this will happen is still a long way from being decided

but YOUR views are an important part of setting the agenda

so you are not just invited, but are strongly encouraged, to

attend one of the two Parish Open Meetings (both in St

Philip Howard Hall) on:

Fri 27th Sept. at 7.30pm and Sat 5th Oct. at 10.30am.

PLEASE come and share your views and comments. This is

your opportunity to shape the future of YOUR parish.

The Diocesan Plan can be found on our website at

https://www.catholicchurchfareham.org.uk/

Portsmouthdiocesenews

Conversation Group

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 09:36:16 GMT

CONVERSATION GROUP

Every other Thurs, 2pm-3.30pm, Sacred Heart Church Hall

Do you have APHASIA or communication difficulties after a

stroke? Come and join our friendly Conversation Group in

Fareham to share a chat and have a relaxing afternoon.

Next meeting: Thursday 19th September

Donation of £1.00, drink included!

For info. please contact Angela at: amnally65@gmail.com

St Edmunds Catholic School Open Morning

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 09:28:25 GMT

ST EDMUND’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL

OPEN MORNING

Saturday 5th October 2024 between 9am-1pm

Open morning for Year 6 pupils and parents/guardians.

Please visit to get an insight into life at St Edmund’s’.

St Jude's Vacancy

Sat, 14 Sep 2024 09:56:33 GMT

ST JUDE’S FOUNDATION GOVERNOR VACANCY

If you are a practising and committed Catholic, interested in

applying (training provided) please speak with Cn John.

A Foundation Governor is personally appointed by Bishop

Philip to diocesan schools to represent his interests and

those of the Catholic community.

All of the governors of a Catholic school work as a team, in

close co-operation with the headteacher and all the staff.

Home Mission Sunday

Sat, 14 Sep 2024 09:24:44 GMT

Today's 2nd collection will be for Home Mission Sunday

Hedge Cutting at the parish

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 10:34:17 GMT

HEDGE CUTTING AT ST PHILIP HOWARD

A big thank you to Richard Dickson and a group of

volunteers who gave up their time to cut the hedges, tidy

up and clear the cuttings at St Philip Howard Church

Parish Car Parking

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 10:29:41 GMT

ST PHILIP HOWARD - OVERFLOW CAR PARKING

Just a reminder – when attending the 11am Mass, please

note St Jude’s School car park will be open for use.

Response- Al Mahdi Centre

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 12:31:03 GMT

A warm and appreciative response was received from Sheikh Fazle, the Imam, at the Al-Mahdi Centre

My community at Al Mahdi Centre and I are grateful for the statement issued by the Christians Together in Fareham. The message of prayers, solidarity with the community and condemnation for inciting hatred is appreciated.

I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the victims of the Southport incident and their families. It is distressing to see such a tragedy being hijacked by far-right groups to spread hatred and division.

Our city and the nation have always been one of inclusivity, respect, and harmony. The voices of hatred and division, no matter how few, threaten to disrupt the peace and understanding that we have worked hard to foster. The fear and anxiety that these threats generate within the Muslim community are palpable, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that no one feels unsafe or unwelcome in our city.

The diversity in Divine creation including humans of different ethnicities with numerous languages is beautifully celebrated in the Noble Quran stating, "O mankind, We have created you from a male and a female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another" (Quran 49:13).

In celebrating Human diversity this verse reminds us of the importance of understanding and appreciating one another.

Your message has been a source of comfort and strength for me amidst the chaos. Your kindness reminds me of the importance of staying connected and looking out for each other. Knowing that we have friends like you who genuinely care about our well-being and for the Muslim community truly means a lot to me. This is appreciated.

I am sharing this message with Wessex Jamaat leadership team.

In these trying moments let us all join our hearts in prayers pleading to our Compassionate Lord for ease in the situation, peace and strength in communities. Additionally, I pray for the leaders, that may they be guided with wisdom and justice. May they be granted the strength and clarity to lead with compassion and fairness, bringing peace and unity to our nation.

The communication was in response to :

A statement of support and prayer that was issued by Christians Together in Fareham in response to the recent riots and attacks on asylum seekers, and Muslims

The full statement can be viewed here

A warm welcome to Fr. Tom

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 08:50:49 GMT

WELCOME AND THANK YOU -

Fr Tom Kleinschmidt Celebrating Mass for us while Fr. John is away helping the CA Pilgrimage who are able to take the sick and dying to Lourdes. Follow us on social media

First Eucharist 2024

Sat, 17 Aug 2024 21:38:26 GMT

EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS’ FORMATION

Saturday 19th October 10am - 1pm. Immaculate Conception Church, Stubbington.

Our Pastoral area (soon to be Parish) are holding a Formation session for new and existing Eucharistic Ministers. There will be reflections on our understanding of the Eucharist and good practice for helping with the distribution of Our Lord at Mass. We will also look at the ministry of taking the Lord to the sick and housebound which is a very rewarding ministry and fulfilment of the Gospel. We do need extra help with this area and hope the session will give confidence to those considering helping with this valuable offering of time and charity. A DBS and references will be required for this part of the ministry. If you are a Catholic of good standing and wish to be considered for this ministry please speak to Cn John.

Recent Riots and Unrest

Sat, 17 Aug 2024 12:21:37 GMT

In the wake of the recent riots and unrest, Christians Together in Fareham issued a statement which has been posted on their website and sent to the Muslim community who worship at the Al-Mahdi Centre on Fontley Road, our MP and the media.

In the wake of the shocking attack on young people in Southport last week, and the violence that has followed in several towns and cities, Christians Together in Fareham want to express our love, prayers and solidarity with all the victims. As people of prayer, we continue to pray for those who have been injured and bereaved; as people of the truth, we reject all attempts to make dishonest political capital out of the suffering of the Southport victims; as people of justice, we condemn the scapegoating of asylum seekers, Muslims, people of colour, and others who bear no responsibility for what happened. We commit ourselves afresh to standing against hatred and violence in every form, and doing all we can to build safe, caring and strong communities.

VIEW A STATEMENT FROM Sheikh Fazle, the Imam, at the Al-Mahdi Centre

Christians Together Fareham

Sat, 17 Aug 2024 09:23:54 GMT

CHRISTIANS TOGETHER IN FAREHAM

- Statement In the wake of the recent riots and unrest, Christians Together in Fareham issued a statement which has been posted on their website and sent to the Muslim community who worship at the Al-Mahdi Centre on Fontley Road, our MP and the media. Almost immediately a warm and appreciative response was received from Sheikh Fazle, the Imam, at the Al-Mahdi Centre. Copies of both letters are on the parish website https://www.catholicchurchfareham.org.uk

Additional News Updates

Sat, 10 Aug 2024 09:50:24 GMT

CAFOD’S LIVESIMPLY AWARD

In order for our parish to participate in Pope Francis’ invite to “work with generosity and tenderness in protecting this world which God has entrusted to us”, the parish is going to apply for the LiveSimply award. This will not be onerous, it will be about sharing and following guidelines on sustainable living and caring for the vulnerable.

In future weeks notices will be posted about activities and events. Please pray for this vital project.

FUNDRAISING CONCERT FOR UKRAINE

Friday 9th August, 7pm at Holy Trinity church, Fareham

Holy Trinity is once again hosting a fundraising concert for Ukraine, with the amazing Kyiv Classic Accordion Duo on Friday, 9th August at 7pm.

Free entry with a retiring collection. Do come and join us and help us fill the church! Christians Together in Fareham

CONVERSATION GROUP

Every other Thursday, 2pm-3.30pm, Sacred Heart Church Hall

Do you have APHASIA or communication difficulties after a stroke? Come and join our friendly Conversation Group in Fareham to share a chat and have a relaxing afternoon.

Dates for 2024

Aug 8th & 22nd September 5th & 19th October 3rd, 17th & 31st November 14th & 28th December 12th & 19th

Cost – only £1.00, drink included!
For more details, please contact Angela by email: amnally65@gmail.com

PARISH BEREAVEMENT ‘BETHANY GROUP’

Thursday 15th August, Sacred Heart Church Hall

This meeting, which usually starts at 10am, will commence after the Assumption Mass on Thursday 15th August.

PRAYERS PLEASE ...

My husband Philip is in hospital in France at the moment and I would like prayers for us both please. I am here in France also as we were on holiday when he was taken ill. Many thanks.

God bless. Yours sincerely, Pauline Skinner.

Diocesan Mass of Thanks Giving

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 09:36:27 GMT

DIOCESAN MASS OF THANKSGIVING

Celebrated by the Apostolic Nuncio to Great Britain,

HIS EXCELLENCY ARCHBISHOP MIGUEL MAURY BUENDÍA Friday 6th Sept, 12:30pm St John’s Cathedral Portsmouth. Bishop Philip cordially invites you to this special Mass of Thanksgiving celebrated by the Apostolic Nuncio who represents the Holy Father to the Church in the UK. His role is equivalent to that of an ambassador, representing the Holy See to the UK who is visiting the Diocese. All welcome

Fanning the Flame Summer Camp

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 10:03:47 GMT

FLAME 2025 OVO Arena, Wembley -

Saturday 15thMarch 2025 Book now to secure the early bird price! The largest youth gathering of Catholics, Flame is once more taking place. Will you be there? All Catholic youth aged 14+ yrs are invited to attend. During the day you will hear modern inspirational faith filled music, motivational speakers, see drama and dancing and have opportunities to share the faith and to spend time in prayer. Those who have attended in the past from our parish described the event as the best day ever! Tickets cost £35 but the early bird price for tickets bought before the 30th Sept is £29. Some help with the cost may be available. There is also a coach running from Portsmouth to the arena. To find out more and book your place please contact Sue Field on 07739 099 000 or leave your contact details with the parish office.

Diocesan Planning

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 09:39:29 GMT

THE SOLENT PASTORAL AREA & PARISH UNITED IN CHRIST -

You Will Be My Witnesses Gosport & Bridgemary, Lee & Stubbington, Park Gate and Fareham & Portchester The Diocesan Ten-year Plan lays out a vision for a more missionary church in our diocese.

It is a plan that takes account of both the challenges we face and the opportunities that arise when neighbouring parishes such as Gosport & Bridgemary, Lee & Stubbington, Park Gate, and Fareham & Portchester work together and become a single missionary parish. But such changes can only happen with you, the people of the parish, being involved. Discussions about the Plan will be held later in the year - but meanwhile, why not have a look at the Plan on our website https://www.catholicchurchfareham.org.uk/ portsmouthdiocesenews - and think about what you might like to say about the changes we will face and how we can make the vision real?

Welcome and thank you: Fr Vincent

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 09:27:39 GMT

WELCOME AND THANK YOU - Fr Vincent Celebrating Mass for us while Fr. John is away leading a Vocations Promotion Roadshow in Hedge End and Bittern. Please ask the Lord of the Harvest for much needed vocations to the Priesthood and Religious life

Sacred Heart Parking

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 09:54:26 GMT

SACRED HEART CHURCH - PARKING HARDSTANDING CAR PARK & No. 38 SPACE Please note the hardstanding at the end of Hartlands Road is for Presbytery, Parish Office and permission use only (i.e. visitors and disabled use). Thank you. Please note the No.38 space does not belong to the parish. It belongs to the tenants of No.38. Please do not park in that household’s car parking space (though is it incorrectly labelled Clergy and presumed as belonging to the parish)

The Catholic Church Welcomes You

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 09:47:56 GMT

THE CATHOLIC CHURCH WELCOMES YOU… Are you looking for answers about the Catholic faith? If you are not a Catholic, or you know someone who isn’t, then we have the perfect course to attend. The course starts on Wednesday evenings in the autumn meeting in the Sacred Heart Church Hall 7pm. Over the following months you will learn about the existence of God, how God speaks to us, the person of Jesus, Mary, the Sacraments and many other key beliefs and teachings of the Catholic Church. To register, or to find out more information, please contact; Dcn Larry and Yvette Murawski on lmurawski@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk or register your interest with the parish office 01329 318 869 and we will get back to you straight away! Welcome!

Jubilee Congratulations

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 09:40:40 GMT

JUBILEE – CONGRATULATIONS To Bishop Philip celebrating the 40th Anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood on Sunday 4th August. Ad Multos Annos!

News for this Week

Sun, 07 Jul 2024 14:22:27 GMT

NEWSLETTER FOR 6 ^th July – 14 ^th July 2024

PRAISE AND WORSHIP EVENING

Friday 12 ^th July, 7.30pm – 9pm at St Philip Howard Church

A themed evening of: scripture, reflection, adoration, silence, prayer and worship - just come and be. Followed by a wonderful social of refreshments and fellowship in the Hall. Bring your friends! All are welcome.

PRIESTLY ORDINATIONS

Sat 13th July, 11.00am at St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth

Please pray for Dcn Tom Hiney and Dcn Ambrose Chou being ordained to the priesthood.

Come and join in this wonderful occasion of grace.

All are very welcome.

SEA SUNDAY 14th July - SECOND COLLECTION

Apostleship of the Sea (Stella Maris)

Sea Sunday is when the Church prays for all those who live and work at sea. Seafarers and fishers play a vital role in all of our lives, but they often work in difficult, hazardous conditions.

Last year, more crews have been abandoned by their employers than ever before. Many are still being denied the right to leave their ships for even a short break away from the relentless noise and pressure onboard. Many are reporting more stress and poorer mental health. Your support for Stella Maris will make a big difference.

For more info visit: www.stellamaris.org.uk

ANNUAL NAVAL MASS WILL TAKE PLACE ON SEA SUNDAY

Sunday 14 ^th July, 10.00am in St John’s Catholic Cathedral, with Bishop Paul Mason, the Bishop of the Forces, as Principal Celebrant.

The dress for serving personnel is Number 1 uniform with medals and veterans are encouraged to wear their medals. The Mass will be followed by a drinks reception in the Cathedral Discovery Centre – all welcome!

GOSPORT SECTION OF THE CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE

Wednesday 10 ^th July, 1.30pm in the Hall at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Stubbington

We would welcome visitors, so please do come along. For further information, please contact:

Marguerite Boulter on 01489 575663 margieboulter@aol.com

Maria Owen on 07790378097 mariaeowen@gmail.com

REST IN PEACE ‘Life is changed not ended’

“The family of Mary Gillen would like to express their appreciation for the kind words and expression of sympathy in our time of sadness. Thank you also to Fr Mathew, Dcn Larry, the Bethany Group and John Lane.”

SERVER OF THE MONTH” (June)

There is a three way tie for Server of the Month in June! Well done to Sancta Maria Chiramal, Via Maria Chiramal and Talia Odoeme who have been awarded the Green Cincture of Honour for June. Thank you to ALL our Altar Servers for your assistance at our services.

Gosport Catholic Womens League

Sat, 06 Jul 2024 14:11:39 GMT

GOSPORT SECTION OF THE CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE

Wednesday 10 ^th July, 1.30pm in the Hall at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Stubbington

We would welcome visitors, so please do come along. For further information, please contact:

Marguerite Boulter on 01489 575663 margieboulter@aol.com

Maria Owen on 07790378097 mariaeowen@gmail.com

Sea Sunday

Sat, 06 Jul 2024 14:10:09 GMT

SEA SUNDAY 14th July - SECOND COLLECTION

Apostleship of the Sea (Stella Maris)

Sea Sunday is when the Church prays for all those who live and work at sea. Seafarers and fishers play a vital role in all of our lives, but they often work in difficult, hazardous conditions.

For more info visit: www.stellamaris.org.uk

Praise & Worship Evening

Sat, 06 Jul 2024 11:44:50 GMT

PRAISE AND WORSHIP EVENING

Friday 12 ^th July, 7.30pm – 9pm at St Philip Howard Church

Priesrly Ordinations

Sat, 06 Jul 2024 08:53:54 GMT

PRIESTLY ORDINATIONS

Sat 13th July, 11.00am at St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth

Please pray for Dcn Tom Hiney and Dcn Ambrose Chou being ordained to the priesthood.

Come and join in this wonderful occasion of grace.

All are very welcome.

Additional News Updates

Sat, 29 Jun 2024 09:32:33 GMT

GREEN CHRISTIAN ON FRIDAY

Friday 28 ^th June, 7.30pm at Sacred Heart Hall

We will be discussing our proposed project ‘Live Simply’ and watching an informative short film. Hope you can make it!

Peace and All Joy

Esme and John OFS

CAFOD’s LIVE SIMPLY AWARD

In order for our parish to participate in Pope Francis’ invitation to “work with generosity and tenderness in protecting this world which God has entrusted to us”, the parish is going to apply for the Live Simply Award. This will not be onerous, it will be about sharing and following guidelines on sustainable living and caring for the vulnerable. In future weeks notices will be posted about activities and events. Please pray for this vital project.

ANNUAL COMMUNITY SHOWCASE

Saturday 20 ^th July, 10am-4.00pm, West Street, Fareham

John Dear and the Fareham New Life Baptist Church have booked a stand which they have kindly agreed can be a joint one for them and Christians Together in Fareham.

If you are free that day and can offer an hour or two to help, we would be most grateful.

Please can you contact John ( treasurer@farehamchristians.org.uk ) directly as he will be coordinating the rota and times.

LOST PROPERTY

A pair of Apple air-pods (in their case) was found in Sacred Heart church hall on the evening of Tuesday 18 June. If anyone is missing their air-pods (or knows of someone who might be the owner) please contact the parish office on 01329 318869.

Bamendia Diocese 50th Anniversary

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 09:09:03 GMT

BAMENDA DIOCESE - 50TH ANNIVERSARY LINK Saturday 6th July at 11am - Mass of Thanksgiving At St John’s Cathedral. All are welcome. The 50th Anniversary of the formation of the link between the Archdiocese of Bamenda and the Diocese of Portsmouth, will be marked with celebrations at our Cathedral in Portsmouth on Saturday 6th July. Archbishop Andrew Nkea and Fr Bernardine Nsom will be leading a delegation of 13 priests, religious and laity from Bamenda, and they are planning to visit some of our twinned schools and the parishes where five of their priests from Bamenda are now serving us in the Diocese.

House Blessings

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 09:05:52 GMT

HOUSE BLESSINGS Jesus said say ‘Peace to this household.' Luke 10:5 If you would like a house blessing, whatever the occasion, please contact Dcn Larry to arrange a date when you can invite your family, neighbours and friends! Contact: lmurawski@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

Thank you from Fr. John

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 08:49:36 GMT

THANK YOU … For all your prayers, cards & lovely messages and generous gifts on the occasion of my birthday and ordination anniversary last week. Very much appreciated. Fr John.

Bishops Barbeque - Seminarians & Enquirers

Sat, 22 Jun 2024 09:24:55 GMT

BISHOP’S BBQ WITH THE SEMINARIANS AND INQUIRERS Tues 30th July at 6pm (normally finishes by 9pm) At Bishop’s House, Portsmouth. PO1 3HG An invitation to all Seekers / Inquirers to the annual Summer BBQ with Bishop Philip and our Seminarians. It is a very informal occasion and simply offers you a chance to meet the guys, ask them questions and chat with the Bishop too. Feeling called? Coincidences? Come and see! Contact Cn John if you would like to join us: 01329 318869

Missio Red Box & Coffee Morning

Sat, 22 Jun 2024 09:19:09 GMT

MISSIO RED BOX COFFEE MORNING Sat 22nd June, 10.30am - 12pm at Sacred Heart Hall In 2023 Sacred Heart Parish raised £6,157.72 through our Red Boxes and donations. Thank you for your generosity. A big thank you to John and Esme for all their hard work!

A Day for Life

Sat, 22 Jun 2024 09:15:33 GMT

Let us remind ourselves of this sacred gift - Life

The Church teaches that life is to be nurtured from conception to natural death, and every year a Day for Life is celebrated on the third Sunday of June. There have been many calls in the media recently, especially by some celebrities, for assisted suicide to be allowed, a view that opposes the Catholic view that life is a gift and that we are called to care for others at the end of their lives. Read more on the bishops’ website ( https://www.cbcew.org.uk/day-for-life/ ) about how we can promote the Catholic view of life as a gift and the importance of care at the end of life.

New Lectionaries

Sat, 22 Jun 2024 09:01:02 GMT

NEW SET OF LECTIONARIES - THANK YOU !

Thank you so much for the very generous response to the appeal for help in sponsoring the two sets of Lectionaries and the Books of the Gospels for our two Churches when we change to the new ESV translation in Advent

Additional News Items

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 09:00:45 GMT

Additional news items and update for this week

Mass at St Philip Howard

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 09:27:39 GMT

ST PHILIP HOWARD 11AM MASS - MUSIC GROUP We now have two guitarists and a keyboard player playing for 11am Mass at St Philip Howard church each Sunday. If you would like to join us, we meet for practice at 6pm on Thursday evenings in the church. Come along if you are keen to play or sing regularly and are at least Secondary school age. For more information please contact: Sophiedykes@hotmail.com or DavidCockshoot@gmail.com

First Reconciliation & Eucharist

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 09:26:14 GMT

FIRST RECONCILIATION AND EUCHARIST ‘24 A big congratulations and welcome to the Table of the Lord to Celine, Gabriel, Jayden, Rafael, Rozalia and Sophie and their families who have journeyed this year with our wonderful Team of Catechists. The Eucharist is the source and summit of our Catholic faith. Thank you to Tom Fairman, Juliette Kelly and Ann for all you have done.

Parish EST Group & Council Meeting

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 09:16:27 GMT

PARISH EST GROUP / PASTORAL COUNCIL MEETING Saturday 15th June , 10am at Sacred Heart Hall Thank you to all the Team for your time and support to Cn John and the parish community - analysing our pastoral and evangelisation needs, especially in light of the Bishop’s 10 year plan and its implications for our Pastoral Area.

New Missals

Sun, 26 May 2024 09:47:06 GMT

PARISHIONER’S NEW MISSALS? If you want to replace your own personal Sunday Missal these are £19.95. The Weekday Missal is not available yet to order and the price is tbc. If you would like a new Sunday Missal please order by 16th June through the Parish Office or Ann Anderson.

Welcom to Msgr Vincent

Sun, 26 May 2024 09:45:50 GMT

Big thank you to Msgr. Vincent Harvey celebrating Mass for us this weekend while Cn John is away.

CHILDRENS LITURGY

Sat, 25 May 2024 15:00:14 GMT

CHILDREN’S LITURGY

CHILDREN’S LITURGY Free resources to help your child grow in faith can be found at: www.casoportsmouth.org.uk/daily-worship www.cafod.org.uk/education/children-s-liturgy

Free resources to help your child grow in faith can be found at;

www.casoportsmouth.org.uk/daily-worship www.cafod.org.uk/education/children-s-liturgy

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CHILDREN’S LITURGY Free resources to help your child grow in faith can be found at; www.casoportsmouth.org.uk/daily-worship www.cafod.org.uk/education/children-s-liturgy

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CHILDREN’S LITURGY Free resources to help your child grow in faith; www.casoportsmouth.org.uk/daily-worship www.cafod.org.uk/education/children-s-liturgy

-------------------------------------------------------------

UPDATE: CHILDREN’S LITURGY

Children’s Liturgy at Sacred Heart will resume

on 3rd Sep. Free resources to help your child

grow in faith and relationship with Our Lord can

be found at:

www.casoportsmouth.org.uk/daily-worship

www.cafod.org.uk/education/children-s-liturgy

----------------------------------------------------------

CHILDREN’S LITURGY

Children’s Liturgy at Sacred Heart will pause during the summer. The last liturgy will be on 23rd Jul and will resume on 3rd Sep.

Free resources to help your child grow in faith and relationship with Our Lord can be found at:

www.casoportsmouth.org.uk/daily-worship

www.cafod.org.uk/education/children-s-liturgy

Adult Jouurney in Faith: Holy Spirit

Sat, 25 May 2024 09:37:53 GMT

ADULT JOURNEY IN FAITH Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) Group Sessions - Wednesdays, 7pm - 9pm Sacred Heart Church Hall For those seeking answers and wanting to learn more about what Catholics believe. No commitment is requested or required – we are happy always, to share our journey with you. For more info, contact the Parish Office.

Additional Parish Notices

Sun, 19 May 2024 09:53:27 GMT

St Anthony Solent OFS – Regional Meeting and Renewal of Promises

Saturday 18 ^th May, 12pm – 4pm at Sacred Heart Church

Please let us know if you can make it. Contact us on: Solentofs@outlook.com

Thank you

Thank you so much for the prayers and good wishes for Keith. Keith finally came home a couple of weeks ago and is continuing his recovery very well at home.

God Bless

Suzanne Moon

Thank You

Following the marathon last month and due to the generosity of the parish, I have raised over £5,300, which is over double my original target. Thank you to all those who came to the quiz night, took part in the raffle or sponsored me. Every £1 donated is used to help train and support specialist nurses who look after the many seriously ill children in the UK.

God Bless

David Barnsley-Parsons

Caritas Portsmouth is hosting an online Dementia Friends Information Session

Tuesday 21 ^st May at 7pm

For anyone interested in supporting people with Dementia in their parishes, community or family. Everyone welcome.

Please register at https://tinyurl.com/4ysur27w

Living World Church – Young Adults, REDEEM, Worship Night

Sunday 19 ^th May, 7pm at the Living World Titchfield Church building, 18 High St, Titchfield

A new young adults (ages 16-30) worship night.

New Readers Training Session

Tuesday 18 ^th June at 7.30pm, Sacred Heart Hall

A training session for new readers. We are always looking for confident, new readers so, if you are age 14 yrs or above and are interested, please give your name and contact details to the Parish office, or use the ‘Contact Us’ form on the website.

First Holy Communiotn

Sun, 12 May 2024 10:06:23 GMT

FIRST EUCHARIST - 2024 We welcome our children & their families to various Masses over the next few weeks when they will make their First Holy Communion. Many thanks to Tom Fairman and the Team for the preparation they have received bringing them to this wonderful gift of Divine Life in the Lord’s Eucharist at the Altar, their Altar

Canon Gerry

Sun, 12 May 2024 10:03:01 GMT

CN GERARD HETHERINGTON -

60 YEARS ORDAINED Parishioners who lived in Fareham in the 1970’s will remember Cn. Gerry who was Parish Priest for most of that decade and his reordering of the Sanctuary and its unusual but beautiful square altar. He celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of his ordination on 23rd May this year. He is now living in Guernsey. There will be a card for anyone who wishes to sign it in the Hall after Mass this weekend.

Why Ascension?

Sun, 12 May 2024 09:55:53 GMT

ASCENSION - Why 40 days?

The number 40 has enormous significance in the history of salvation. The rabbinic interpretation connects the number 40 with the time it takes for something to go from its beginning to its fruition. 40 is the number of weeks between the conception and birth of a human being. In some cases, there are 40 days between planting and harvesting. In the Church’s calendar there are 40 days between Christmas and the Presentation of the Lord when Jesus was brought by Mary and Joseph to the Temple. Jesus spent 40 days in the desert. 40 days was the length of time a pupil would spend learning from a Rabbi. Jesus' 40 days of appearance and teaching after his Resurrection (Acts 1,3) seems to follow this pattern. Apart from marking the importance of the feast, celebrating the Ascension of Christ into Heaven 40 days after Easter Sunday also reinstates the possibility of practising the ancient “Novena of the Holy Spirit” devotion, preparing for Pentecost. Celebrating the sacred Liturgy on particular days linked to the mysteries of the great feasts marks another form of love that we can show for God as we praise him for all the wonders he has done for us.

Catholic Communications network

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 21:17:33 GMT

CATHOLIC COMMUNICATION NETWORK There will be a mandatory collection on 11/12th May for the work of our CCN on this World Communications Day.

Prasie & Worship Evening

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 21:14:34 GMT

PRAISE & WORSHIP EVENING Friday 17th May, 7:30pm at St PH A themed evening of; scripture, reflection, adoration, silence, prayer and worship - just come and be. Followed by a wonderful social of refreshments and fellowship in the Hall. Bring your friends! All are welcome!

Additionoal Newsletter Notices

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 09:50:22 GMT

ROSARY RALLY

Sat 27th April, 3pm at Queen Elizabeth Fountain, Commercial Rd Portsmouth

All are welcome to come and pray on the anniversary of the passing of the Abortion Act with the Marian Franciscans.

KNIGHTS OF ST COLUMBA MEET & GREET

Sat 4th May, 9am - 12:30 at St Philip Howard Hall

All are welcome to come along and learn more about the Knights of St Columba.

A DAY WITH MARY

Sat 18th May, 9:30am - 4:30pm at Bournemouth Oratory

All are welcome to attend, the day consists of Mass, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Confessions and a Sermon on Our Lady. For more info or to book visit www.adaywithmary.org

Important Bishop's Announcement

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 09:49:14 GMT

Please take the time to read an important update from the Bishop

‘You Will Be My Witnesses : The Ten-Year Plan’ - Next steps in delivering the Bishop’s

Vision

As many of you will be aware, over the past two years, the Diocese has engaged in a wide-

ranging consultation process, with both clergy and laity, to develop the bishop’s 10-year plan

to deliver his vision for a renewed Diocese by 2032. At the same time, it has conducted an

in-depth analysis of its financial, structural and organisational situation. The findings of this

analysis and the vision for the future have been published as the Mission Plan: “You Will Be

My Witnesses: The Ten-Year Plan” (YWBMW). The Plan can be accessed online at:

www.portsmouthdiocese.org.uk/our-mission/planning/ten-year-plan/

Read the document below for more information

View Here

Thankyou

Sun, 14 Apr 2024 11:55:48 GMT

THANK YOU To everyone who donated and supported our Chocolate Tombola which raised £357 for CAFOD and the Lent Appeal

May Devotions

Sun, 14 Apr 2024 11:41:45 GMT

MAY DEVOTIONS

Rosary and Benediction - Sacred Heart Church Sundays 4pm on 12th, 19th & 26th May

The word Rosary means “Crown of Roses”. The rose is the queen of flowers and so the Rosary is the rose of all devotions and it is therefore the most important one. Sundays in May 4pm. ‘Say the rosary every day to obtain peace for the world’ (Our Lady of Fátima) Come and join us.

Year of Praywr 2024

Sat, 13 Apr 2024 11:40:22 GMT

Pope Francis has asked that this year, 2024, be a Year of Prayer in preparation for the Jubilee Year, 2025.

He has asked that there be a particular focus on the Our Father. We pray this prayer so often and there's always the risk of it becoming dry or remaining superficial. Why not come and join us on Friday 4th May (evening) and Saturday 5th May (all day) as Allegra Mutanda leads us in a time of prayer and recollection, helping us to explore what it means to pray 'Our Father in heaven'? All are welcome. All our missionary efforts are dependent upon this intimate relationship between us and 'Abba', who wishes to bless and heal all His beloved sons and daughters.

For registration to this free event, visit

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/year-of-prayer-our-father -in-heaven-retreat-days-fri-3-pm-and-sat-4-may-tickets877957062207?aff=oddtdtcreator Once you have registered, you will receive further details nearer to the date of the event. Please confirm your attendance by Mon 29th April.

Our Weekend Masses

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 14:13:45 GMT

OUR WEEKEND MASSES - GENRES We are blessed to have 4 Masses celebrated here each weekend with their own style and atmosphere. To ensure you are attending the Mass that best suits your preference of liturgical style - we offer you a summary of their genres

We are blessed to have 4 Masses celebrated here each weekend with their own style and atmosphere. To ensure you are attending the Mass that best suits your preference of liturgical style - we offer you a summary of their genres.

Saturday Vigil Mass 6.30pm – Sacred Heart The quietest of our Sunday Masses that enjoys a traditional feel with some organ music. Fellowship is offered after Mass with refreshments.

Sunday 9am – Sacred Heart Generally, a traditional liturgical feel; organ hymns, Children’s Liturgy of the Word, parts of the Mass are sometimes sung, incense is used with the support of the altar servers. Generally, more families in attendance Fellowship is offered after Mass with refreshments. It would be wonderful to have an organist, please!

Sunday 11am – St Philip Howard Church A more modern liturgical feel; more Praise and Worship songs than traditional hymns, parts of the mass are sung assisted by a choir. PowerPoint support on screens with responses. Often there are celebrations of the various Rites in the life of the parish community. Sometimes incense is used by the servers. (No Children’s Liturgy offered due to the need for sound proofing the dividing doors) This Mass is live streamed. Refreshments after Mass.

Sunday 6pm – St Philip Howard Church A quieter, more contemplative celebration of the Sunday Eucharist. One or two hymns ranging from traditional to modern. PowerPoint support on screens with responses. This Mass is live streamed.

FIRST EUCHARIST - 2024

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 13:16:42 GMT

FIRST EUCHARIST - 2024

Children’s & Parent’s Session Parents “Do this in memory of Me” and “Body of Christ, to love and serve” Children: Sat 27th Apr, 9:30am - 11am at St PH Hall Parents: Sat 27th Apr, 9:45am - 10:45am Sacred Heart Hall

Seeker Evening

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 11:57:37 GMT

“Seeker Evenings” Pray, Decide & Don’t Worry 1st Fridays 7 - 9pm, at Sacred Heart Presbytery. Fellowship, discussion, adoration. For those with “that itch”. Welcome!

Dcn Larry Murawski

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 11:52:33 GMT

WARM WELCOME - DCN LARRY MURAWSKI Dcn Larry will be returning to us this week after Easter. Welcome back Dcn. Larry & Yvette!

Important Times: Holy Week & Triduum

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 21:18:52 GMT

HOLY WEEK & TRIDUUM

Palm Sunday Blessing of the Palms and Passion Gospel Sat Vigil 6:30pm: No procession and simple Passion reading

Sun 9am: Palm Procession and Passion in parts Sun 11am: Palm Procession and Passion in parts Sun 6pm: No procession and simple reading of the Passion There will be a retiring collection for the Easter Flowers

Holy Tuesday Chrism Mass - Mass of the Sacred Oils 11am St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth All are welcome for this important gathering of the Diocese with the Bishop and his Clergy renewing their Ordination promises, the Solemn Blessing of the Oil of Catechumens, the Oil of the Sick and the consecration of the Sacred Oil of Chrism for the sacramental life of our community.

Maundy Thursday 7:30pm Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper at St PH Church Procession of the Oils, Washing of the Feet, The Eucharist, and procession of the Blessed Sacrament taken from the Church. Watching at the Altar of Repose in the Hall Night Prayer at 11pm

Good Friday 9am Stations of the Cross - Sacred Heart Church 10.20am Service of Witness - Podium, West St. 9:30am Service of Witness - Portchester Precinct 3pm Passion of Our Lord at St PH Church

Holy Saturday 9am Office of Readings & Morning Prayer - Sacred Heart Ch. 10am Święnconka - ‘Blessing of the Easter food’ at Our Lady Church, Stubbington The Resurrection of the Lord

7:30pm The Easter Vigil at St PH Church The Fire, Blessing of Paschal Candle, Sequence, Liturgy of Light, Scripture readings, Blessing of Water, Renewal of Baptismal Promises, Initiations, Confirmation and Eucharist. Reception in Hall afterwards!

Easter Sunday 9am Dawn Mass - Sacred Heart Church 11am Day Mass - St Philip Howard Church

Roald Dahl Fundraiser

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 21:01:26 GMT

ROALD DAHL FUNDRAISER QUIZ NIGHT AND RAFFLE NEXT Sat 6th April, 6:30pm at St PH Hall Tickets; £5 per person, available after Mass. Quiz: If you wish to attend please complete the form by following this link: https://forms.office.com/e/6g65CpMprd or there are sign up forms in the foyer of both churches. Donation; If you would like to make a donation, please go to JustGiving and donate online: www.justgiving.com/ page/david-barnsley-parsons-running? For more info. Contact; david@barnsley-parsons.co.u

Holy Week Preparations

Sat, 23 Mar 2024 21:07:02 GMT

THANK YOU - Holy Week Preparations A big thank you to all who have been working hard behind the scenes preparing our celebrations of Our Lord’s passion, death and resurrection. Very much appreciated

Palm Sunday Masses

Sun, 17 Mar 2024 10:03:07 GMT

Palm Sunday Masses

To help you decide which Palm Sunday Mass to attend, please note that:

Saturday Vigil 6:30pm – No Palm Procession (blessing of palms only) and simple reading of the Passion

Sunday 9am – Palm Procession from the bus station roundabout and reading of the Passion in parts

Sunday 11am – Palm Procession from the hall and reading of the Passion in parts

Sunday 6pm – No Palm Procession (blessing of palms only) and simple reading of the Passion

ROALD DAHL FUNDRAISER QUIZ NIGHT AND RAFFLE

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 10:53:17 GMT

ROALD DAHL FUNDRAISER

QUIZ NIGHT AND RAFFLE

Sat 6th April, 6:30pm at St PH Hall

David Barnsley-Parsons is taking on the London Marathon

for the Roald Dahl's Marvellous Children's Charity. Raffle

tickets available to buy after Mass.

Tickets to the quiz & raffle fundraiser are £5 per person.

Quiz: If you wish to attend please complete the form by

following this link: https://forms.office.com/e/6g65CpMprd

or there are sign up forms in the foyer of both churches.

Donation; If you would like to make a donation, please go to

JustGiving and donate online: www.justgiving.com/page/

david-barnsley-parsons-running?utm_term=Avw8gk6qn

For info, please contact; david@barnsley-parsons.co.uk.

Welcome to Dcn Larry

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 10:42:57 GMT

We are pleased to announce that Dcn Larry has been

appointed by the Bishop to serve our parish of Fareham &

Portchester from 1st April. We look forward to giving him

and Yvette a warm welcome.

Funerals Important Update

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 10:54:31 GMT

YOUR FUNERAL AND YOUR FAMILY …

We understand this is not an easy topic to discuss with your

family, but can we suggest you make your wishes very clear;

plan your funeral and let your family know that when you

die you would like the Catholic Rites of a Requiem Mass to

be offered for you. We are finding even if you practice your

faith; Sunday Mass, devotions, et al, do not presume your

family will follow your wishes. Sadly, we are finding the faith

of Mass going Catholics is not being respected by the family

who do not see the need. The parish is here to help them.

Finding our family pathway through Lent

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 12:16:46 GMT

This Lent at Sacred Heart Church Children’s Liturgy, we will be using a visual aid of sand in a desert. This is because Lent is sometimes described as a journey and we use the idea ‘desert’ as a way to focus on Lent away from the usual distractions. The visual aid has a pathway through it. Each Sunday we will add a visual that links to the scripture readings. - More Here

Mass Intensions

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 10:58:02 GMT

MASS INTENTIONS To avoid disappointment please book your Mass intentions a couple of months in advance if you are wanting a specific date. Next available dates are in May.

Welcome to Fr Anthony Fyk - This weekend

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 10:53:03 GMT

W ELCOME A warm welcome to Fr Anthony Fyk celebrating Mass the weekend of 2nd/3rd March. Also to Dcn Ambrose Chou who is visiting the parish during his half term break.

Welcome to Dcn Larry

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 10:51:25 GMT

W ELCOME DCN LARRY MURAWSKI We are pleased to announce that Dcn Larry has been appointed by the Bishop to serve our parish of Fareham & Portchester from 1st April. We look forward to giving him and Yvette a warm welcome.

Chocolate Tombola

Sat, 24 Feb 2024 17:18:40 GMT

CHOCOLATE TOMBOLA

On Palm Sunday a chocolate tombola will be held with money raised going towards our Lent Appeal and CAFOD. Please can you consider donating chocolate eggs, bars or sweets? All donations to the Parish Office.

Lent Virtual Pilgrimage

Sat, 24 Feb 2024 17:16:34 GMT

LENT - VIRTUAL DAILY PILGRIMAGE

Magdala, Galilee. www.magdala.org.

Magdala is one of the sites we were to visit on our Holy Land Pilgrimage which is now not happening due to the tragedy of the war. Why not join this powerful daily journey for Lent, with Kathleen Nichols, CRC. You can do so via this link:

https://email.magdala.org/h/y/005E0B6DE3889E07

Pastoral Area Reconciliation

Sat, 24 Feb 2024 17:12:41 GMT

PASTORAL AREA RECONCILIATION

For those who may wish to receive the grace of the Sacrament of Reconciliation by a

different priest in our Pastoral Area.

Solent Pastoral Area Reconciliation Service

Tuesday 19th March, 7pm

at Immaculate Conception Church, Bells Lane, Stubbington

St Margaret Mary, Park Gate

Thursday: 6:20pm - 6:50pm or Friday: 10am - 10:30am

Our Lady & St John, Stubbington

During the week: 9am - 9:20am or after Mass

Saturday (Our Lady): 5:15pm - 5:45pm

St Mary & St Columba, Gosport

Wednesday (St Mary): 6:15pm - 6:45pm

Thursday (St Columba): 10:30am - 11:30am

Saturday (St Mary): 12 noon - 1pm

Lent Dates for your Diary

Sat, 24 Feb 2024 00:04:26 GMT

LENT - Dates for the diary

Stations of the Cross and Benediction Wednesday & Friday, 9:30am before Mass Sundays 4pm, at Sacred Heart Church A physical, mental, and spiritual devotion. Walking from station to station we think what happened in that station, uniting our sufferings with Christ’s. 7am Dawn Mass. Thursdays at Sacred Heart Church A simple mass followed by a lovely breakfast in the Hall hosted by the UCM supporting our Lent Appeal raising money for Citizens’ Advice Fareham.

St Margaret Mary Church, Park Gate Fasting The law of fasting requires a Catholic between the ages of 18 - 60yrs eats only one full meal in a day, with no food in-between meals. It is understood that two other meals, if one eats three meals a day, should not total one full meal. Suggest one might fast in a more complete way, i.e., eating only a portion of a single meal. (CCC 2043) Abstinence means not to eat meat. Its purpose is to be an act of sacrifice, that helps us grow in freedom to make much bigger sacrifices. It would not make sense to make the sacrifice of not eating meat, and then eat a wonderful meal I might enjoy even more. Lent Devotions Stations of the Cross and Benediction Wednesday & Friday, 9:30am before Mass Sundays 4pm, at Sacred Heart Church A physical, mental, and spiritual devotion. Walking from station to station, we think what happened in that station, uniting our sufferings with Christ’s. 7am Dawn Mass Thursdays in Lent at Sacred Heart Church Starting on Thursday 15th February; a simple mass followed by a lovely breakfast in the Hall hosted by the UCM supporting our Lent Appeal. LENT LUNCHES - PORTCHESTER CHURCHES TOGETHER Thursdays in Lent, 12noon at Methodist Church, Castle St All welcome to join the 30 min service followed by soup, bread and cheese. Donations; to Christian Aid & CAFOD. LENT APPEAL This year our Lent Appeal will be supporting Citizens Advice - Fareham. They have been helping the people of Fareham since 1942 with free, impartial and independent advice on; money, debt, housing, consumer problems, family & relationship issues, employment worries and more. For more info about their work, visit www.public.citafareham.org

Additional Notices for Lent

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 13:17:20 GMT

Additional News, Activities and Events for Lent

Lent Praise & Worship Event

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 00:00:50 GMT

LENT - PRAISE & WORSHIP EVENING Fri 16th Feb, 7:30pm at St PH A themed evening of; scripture, reflection, adoration, silence, prayer and worship - just come and be. Followed by a wonderful social of refreshments and fellowship in the Hall. Bring your friends! All are welcome.

Lent Group - Order of Franciscan Secular

Sat, 10 Feb 2024 23:57:17 GMT

LENT GROUP - ORDER OF FRANCISCAN SECULAR The OFS invite anyone interested in the way of St Francis and the Lectio Divina Way of Meditation and Prayer to join us at our Lent Prayer Group. Session 1 & 2 will focus on the Gospel of Mark and Session 3 & 4 will focus on the Gospel of John. Please bring with you a bible, notepad and pen. For more info contact John Vivian at Solentofs@outlook.com 24th Feb & 2nd Mar - Sacred Heart Hall, 10am - 12 noon 9th Mar & 23rd Mar - St Philip Howard Hall, 10am - 12 noon

Thank you - Basics Bank

Sat, 10 Feb 2024 23:53:19 GMT

THANK YOU FROM THE BASICS BANK The Basics Bank would like to thank everyone who kindly donates to the scheme via our food boxes in both church foyers. Your donations are grateful received and make a tremendous difference to those in our local community.

Cafod Family Fast Day

Sat, 10 Feb 2024 23:51:19 GMT

This Lent, your donations to CAFOD’s Family Fast Day appeal will help hardworking people like James the fisherman in Liberia with resources, tools and training to feed their families for good. You can give using the envelopes which will be handed out at Mass the weekend of 17th/18th Feb or use the Dona plates in both churches.

Deacon Ambrose thankyou

Sat, 27 Jan 2024 16:33:40 GMT

Dcn. AMBROSE CHOU ... Thank you!

Thank you for your warm welcome and all your support during my Pastoral placement. I return to Seminary at St Mary’s, Birmingham this weekend. I have really enjoyed meeting you and hope that many of you can join me at the Cathedral this summer when Bishop Philip, God willing, ordains me as your Priest. Save the date; Saturday 13th July at 11am! Please keep me in your prayers.

A Praise and Worship Event

Sat, 27 Jan 2024 16:21:07 GMT

PRAISE & WORSHIP EVENING

Next gathering Fri 16th Feb, 7:30pm at St PH Church

A themed evening of; scripture, reflection, adoration, silence, prayer and worship - just come and be. Followed by a wonderful social of refreshments and fellowship in the Hall. Bring your friends! All are welcome.

An update from the SVP

Sat, 27 Jan 2024 16:18:56 GMT

AN UPDATE FROM SVP

Traditionally if there has not been a formal second collection, parishioners have had the opportunity to contribute to SVP. This tradition will be restarting soon, with any donations up until Lent supporting SVP’s work in South Sudan.

7am Dawn Mass

Sat, 27 Jan 2024 16:16:29 GMT

7am Dawn Mass

Thursdays in Lent at Sacred Heart Church

Starting on Thursday 15th February; a simple mass followed by a lovely breakfast in the Hall hosted by the UCM supporting our Lent Appeal.

Stations of the Cross Benediction

Sat, 27 Jan 2024 16:11:24 GMT

Stations of the Cross and Benediction

Sundays 4pm, at Sacred Heart Church

A physical, mental, and spiritual devotion. Walking from station to station, we think what happened in that station, uniting our sufferings with Christ’s.

We would like parish groups to lead the Stations of the Cross during Lent (starting 18th Feb). Please can the group leader of each group contact the Parish Office to register for a date.

Ashe Wednesday 14th February

Sat, 27 Jan 2024 16:06:09 GMT

LENT - Dates for the diary

Ash Wednesday - 14th February

10am - St Philip Howard Church 7pm - Our Lady Church, Stubbington

Fasting The law of fasting requires a Catholic between the ages of 18 - 60yrs eats only one full meal in a day, with no food in-between meals. It is understood that two other meals, if one eats three meals a day, should not total one full meal. Suggest one might fast in a more complete way, i.e., eating only a portion of a single meal. (CCC 2043)

Additional January Notices

Sat, 20 Jan 2024 12:32:33 GMT

Please find attached some additional notices for January. This includes information about SVP's work in South Sudan.

Also, we have recently received some book catalogues which we think might be of interest. Please find attached the relevant pages, if you would like to place an order the deadline to contact the Parish Office is Fri 26th January.

2nd Collection

Sat, 13 Jan 2024 17:22:08 GMT

SECOND COLLECTION - 20th/21st Jan St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth Cn. James McAuley, Cathedral Dean writes; “Since September 2022, the parish has paid for emergency repairs of serious leaks in the Blessed Sacrament and St Patrick chapels and in the Discovery Centre, which totalled £23,060. The cost of these repairs was paid for by parishioners, who responded generously to an appeal for contributions. In January 2023, the 120-year-old West Window began to collapse because of deterioration in the lead work. Its restoration was completed in December 2023 at an estimated final cost of more than £100,000. So far, we have raised almost £38,000 towards the cost of restoration. These projects have used up virtually all the Cathedral’s available funds. The heating and electrical systems are in urgent need of upgrading. One of the three boilers, which heat the Cathedral and Cathedral House, has been broken since spring 2022. The money I had allocated to replace it had to be diverted to pay for the repairs to the West Window. The two remaining boilers both failed in late November 2023. After a week of no central heating, the two boilers were repaired, but we have been advised that all three boilers have come to the end of their useful life, having been installed about 25 years ago. In the summer of 2023, the quinquennial architectural survey was completed and the report we received outlined work required over the next five years to the roof, windows, heating, and electrical systems at an estimated cost of more than £1 million. Never has this annual collection by parishes for the Mother Church of the Diocese been more critical or needed. Your support is vitally important to us.” Donations can be by cash or BACS with the reference “Cathedral” or you can use the Dona plates.

Seeker Evenings

Sat, 13 Jan 2024 17:10:27 GMT

“Seeker Evenings” Pray, Decide & Don’t Worry 1st Fridays 7 - 9pm, at Sacred Heart Presbytery. Fellowship, discussion, adoration. For those with “that itch”. Welcome!

Cafod School Volunteers

Sat, 13 Jan 2024 17:06:53 GMT

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CTif Lent Groups

Sat, 13 Jan 2024 16:52:22 GMT

CTiF LENT STUDY GROUPS - Beginning 19th Feb Using ‘God Has No Favourites’ by Dr Carmody Grey, this 5 session course explores how each of us is called to discover that God is completely inclusive. He does not apportion his welcome or love according to our prejudices or preferences. For more info and to register, collect a form at the back of both churches. Deadline Mon 5th Feb.

Secular Franciscan Order (OFS) Meeting

Sat, 13 Jan 2024 10:40:22 GMT

FRANCISCAN SECULAR ORDER “OFS” MEETING Sat 27th Jan, 12 noon at Sacred Heart Hall All are welcome to attend. For more info contact John and Esme Vivian at; franciscansolent@outlook.com

Catholic Womans League

Sat, 13 Jan 2024 10:08:21 GMT

UNION OF CATHOLIC MOTHERS ‘UCM’ MEETING Mon 22nd Jan, 7pm at Sacred Heart Hall From 7pm for coffee/tea with the meeting starting at 7:30pm and closing at 9pm. All are very welcome!

Christian Prayer Unity

Sat, 23 Dec 2023 21:18:29 GMT

WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY Taking place each year from 18 - 25 January, this special week provides an opportunity to focus our prayers on Christian unity. It also enables us to speak about and experience Christian unity personally, in our town or county as well as engage with what happens at a national level. This year the theme ‘You shall love the Lord your God… and your neighbour as yourself’ (Lk 10:27) For information and resources please visit www.ctbi.org.uk

Praise and Worship Evening

Sat, 23 Dec 2023 10:12:38 GMT

PRAISE & WORSHIP EVENING Next gathering Fri 16th Feb, 7:30pm at St PH Church A themed evening of; scripture, reflection, adoration, silence, prayer and worship - just come and be. Followed by a wonderful social of refreshments and fellowship in the Hall. Bring your friends! All are welcome.

The Ascension App

Sun, 17 Dec 2023 22:42:52 GMT

THE ASCENSION APP A Bible and Catechism app that helps Catholics love and understand God's Word, and his plan of sheer goodness for their lives. Every single screen has been lovingly designed to create the most exceptional experience of any Bible mobile app. A must have! Fresh, free and easy to use …

Deacon Ambrose Chou

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 22:54:20 GMT

DEACON AMBROSE CHOU – January placement Dcn. Ambrose who has been at St Mary’s Seminary, Birmingham for the last 5+ years, will be joining us in January for his month’s parish placement and formation. You may remember him speaking at all the Masses on Good Shepherd Sunday in May 2019. Ambrose was ordained to the Diaconate in the summer and, God willing, will be ordained to the Priesthood in July, with Dcn. Tom Hiney and Dcn. Diego Hoyos. We look forward to welcoming Ambrose to the parish on Tuesday 2nd January.

The Parish Bereavement Group

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 22:51:37 GMT

PARISH BEREAVEMENT “BETHANY” GROUP Thursday 21st Dec, 10am at Sacred Heart Hall Held on 3rd Thursdays - for anyone who has lost a loved one. A warm, welcoming and safe space to be … For more info email; bethany@gmail.com

Advent Dawn Mass

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 22:26:44 GMT

ADVENT DAWN MASS - Thurs 21st Dec at SH Church During Advent there will be a Dawn Mass on Thursdays at 7am followed by breakfast in the hall hosted by the UCM. All donations will go to our Advent Appeal.

Carols and Reading Service

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 22:24:50 GMT

CAROLS & READINGS SERVICE followed by refreshments Sunday 17th December, 3pm at St Philip Howard Church

Advent Dinner Prayers

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 10:21:56 GMT

ADVENT - DINNER PRAYERS

This is the time to be creative, not guilty. If we don't often gather as a family because dinner time is hectic with activities, create a new tradition and make it a before bedtime ritual to light a candle and say a few prayers reflecting on the day that has ended.

Or if morning works better, start the day with Advent prayers holding in our hearts our hopes for the day ahead and lighting the Advent candle over breakfast. If I am alone in my home, I can create my own ritual, knowing that I am joining with Christians around the world in this sacred season.

Let us pray,

Oh, Lord, be with us now

as we gather around this wreath.

As we light these candles, may this time together

open our eyes to see your love in our lives

and in the love we share for each other.

Help us to be grateful for all of the ways

you shine a light in the darkness of our hearts.

Let us feel that love from you and be grateful for it. Open our hearts to those

who have so much less than we do;

And those whose lives are so full of pain

that they cannot see the light of your love.

Show us how to carry that light to other people. Amen.

Advent Reconciliation - Confessions

Sun, 03 Dec 2023 10:30:36 GMT

ADVENT RECONCILIATION - CONFESSIONS

This Advent we are not holding a Penitential Service, so should you wish, please use these opportunities around the Pastoral Area.

Sacred Heart Parish, Fareham

Due to lots of extra diary commitments in Advent changing the routine, please look at the Mass Timetable to see what times are being offered each week.

St Mary’s Parish, Gosport

Wednesday at St Mary’s: 6:15pm - 6:45pm

Thursday at St Columba's: 10:30am - 11:30am

Saturday at St Mary’s: 12 noon - 1pm

St Margaret Mary’s Parish Park Gate

See their newsletter

Our Lady and St John’s Parish, Stubbington

Weekdays: after Mass

Saturday at Our Lady: 5:15pm - 5:45pm

Or by appointment

Advent Dawn masses

Sun, 03 Dec 2023 10:24:00 GMT

ADVENT DAWN MASSES - Thurs 7th/14th/21st Dec

During Advent there will be a Dawn Mass on Thursdays at 7am followed by breakfast in the hall hosted by the UCM. All donations will go to our Advent Appeal.

Christmas Mass Times

Sat, 02 Dec 2023 10:29:20 GMT

CHRISTMAS MASS TIMES

CAROLS & READINGS SERVICE followed by refreshments

Sunday 17th December, 3pm at St Philip Howard Church

Sunday Obligation & Christmas Obligation

Just in case … there are two Mass obligations, the Sunday obligation and the Christmas obligation. A person cannot fulfill both obligations with one Mass! In order to fulfill a Mass obligation, we must attend either on the day of the feast or on the evening preceding as per Canon Law.

4th Sunday of Advent - 24th December

6:30pm Saturday Vigil at Sacred Heart Church

9am Sunday at Sacred Heart Church

11am Sunday at St Philip Howard Church

CHRISTMAS EVE - SUNDAY 24th December

5pm at St Philip Howard Church

9pm at Sacred Heart Church (Midnight Mass)

CHRISTMAS DAY - MONDAY 25th December

Dawn Mass - 9am at Sacred Heart Church

Day Mass - 11am at St Philip Howard Church

Church Cleaning - Help Needed

Sat, 02 Dec 2023 10:25:35 GMT

URGENT - Church Cleaners needed for Wed 2pm - 3pm

We urgently need more volunteers to help with the church cleaning. For more info please contact the Parish Office.

Blessing of the Advent Wreath

Sat, 02 Dec 2023 10:23:09 GMT

Blessing of an Advent Wreath

Lord our God, we praise you

for your Son, Jesus Christ:

He is the Emmanuel,

the hope of the peoples,

He is the wisdom that teaches

and guides us,

He is the Saviour of every nation.

Lord, let your blessing  come upon us

as we light the 1st / 2nd / 3rd / 4th candle of this wreath.

May the wreath and its light be a sign of Christ’s promise

to bring us salvation; may he come quickly and not delay.

We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Blessing of your crib's bambino

Sat, 02 Dec 2023 10:20:52 GMT

BLESSING OF YOUR CRIB’S BAMBINO

Third Sunday of Advent - 16th/17th December

"Bambinelli" is Italian for Little Infant. The Church has a beautiful tradition of Blessing the Christ Child figurines that are placed in our home manger scenes. We invite you to bring the Christ Child (Bambino) from your own crib to be blessed at any Mass on the Third Sunday of Advent.

This wonderful tradition originates in the papacy of Pope St. John Paul II. A suggestion is that following the blessing, your ‘bambinello’, is taken home, put in a gift box and wrapped or placed in an unseen place of honour to await Christmas. Let this be the first gift your family opens on Christmas as together you place the blessed Christ-child figure in the manger welcoming Christmas into your home.

Message from John and Margaret

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 10:39:01 GMT

MESSAGE FROM JOHN & MARGARET MARSHMAN

Thank you to everyone for all the cards, gifts and prayers we received for our golden wedding anniversary. Thank you to Cn John for our blessing which made it a day to remember.

Diocesan Ordination

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 10:41:43 GMT

DIOCESAN ORDINATION

Friday 8th December 6pm, at St John’s Cathedral

Please pray for Diego Hoyos being ordained a Deacon. It’s a very powerful liturgy to be part of. All very welcome.

Additional Parish News

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 15:24:46 GMT

Updated news and notices in readiness for the beginning of Advent

Children's Liturgy Resource

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 10:40:42 GMT

CHILDREN’S LITURGY

Free resources to help your child grow in faith;

www.casoportsmouth.org.uk/daily-worship

www.cafod.org.uk/education/children-s-liturgy

Verbum Dei Advent Retreats

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 10:32:28 GMT

VERBUM DEI ADVENT RETREATS

Retreat 1: 1st December - 3rd December

Retreat 2: 28th December - 1st January

For more information and to register, contact: verbumdei.iow@gmail.com and www.uk.verbumdei.org

Update from Suzanne Moon

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 10:23:27 GMT

A MESSAGE FROM SUZANNE MOON

Thank you so much for the prayers and good wishes for Chris. Your prayers are working. Chris is making good progress, and with continued rehabilitation, he is expected to make a full recovery. God Bless the people of the parish.

Message from Canon John and Family

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 10:21:39 GMT

On behalf of my sister, Josie, and I, please accept our sincere thanks for all your prayers, messages & support following the recent loss of our father, Hugh. We have been over-whelmed by everyone’s kindness - especially the effort of those who made the journey to be with us at the funeral.

I really do believe it has been the power of your prayers that have carried us through this very painful time, so soon after the loss of our mother Pat. I hope you will understand when I ask you to please ‘bear with me’ these next few (and busy) weeks of Advent. May Dad rest in peace & rise in glory.

Christmas Tombola

Sat, 18 Nov 2023 10:29:35 GMT

CHRISTMAS TOMBOLA - 9th/10th December

All funds raised will go to CAFOD and our Advent Appeal. Please can you help by donating any Christmas treats such as chocolate and biscuits? All donations can be given to the Parish Office.

Christmas at St Mary's Gosport

Sat, 18 Nov 2023 10:28:16 GMT

CHRISTMAS AT ST MARY’S GOSPORT

Sun 10th Dec, 12:30 - 4:30pm in the Parish Hall

Join us for an afternoon of fundraising and fellowship with friends. Festive food, carols, family entertainment and a raffle await! Tickets are £10 per adult (children free) which includes a two course multi-cultural lunch. For tickets contact Kate on 07881 375 428.

Knights of Columba Meeting

Sat, 18 Nov 2023 10:25:22 GMT

KNIGHTS OF ST COLUMBA MEETING

Sat 25th Nov, 10am - 12 noon at St Margaret Mary Church

The Knights of St Columba invite all Catholic men to join their next meeting for coffee and cake. Come and find out about our involvement in parish life and our work in our Catholic schools and wider Diocese.

Altar Servers Training

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 10:35:22 GMT

ALTAR SERVERS TRAINING

Fri 24th Nov, 5pm - c.7pm at St Philip Howard Church

A training session for all Altar Servers will be held on Friday 24th November. The training will be followed by pizza to share. Points will be awarded to all servers who attend the training and bonus points will be given to any older servers who come along to help

St Jude's Fish & Chips Quiz Night

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 10:18:24 GMT

ST JUDE’S FISH & CHIPS QUIZ NIGHT Fri 17th Nov, 7pm at St Jude’s School Hall Bring friends and family to test your General Knowledge skills at St Jude’s Quiz night, will you take home the cash prize? Tickets are £8 which includes quiz entry and fish and chip supper. Teams may have up to 8 adults—we are sorry but children can’t attend this event. Tickets can be ordered from st-judespfa.sumupstore.com and collected on arrival.

Thankyou Hallmark Jewellers

Sat, 04 Nov 2023 10:22:38 GMT

THANK YOU A big thank you to Hallmark Jewellers on South Street, Titchfield who repaired the monstrance we use for adoration at no cost to the parish!!

SVP Mass and Christmas Party

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 10:50:15 GMT

SVP MASS & CHRISTMAS PARTY Thurs 7th December, 1:30pm at SPH The SVP will be hosting a Christmas Party for our older parishioners. It will start at 1:30pm with Mass, followed afterwards by a Christmas Tea in the Hall. All are welcome and please pass this invitation on to anyone who might not otherwise receive it. If you need help with transport, no problem, please phone 07435 880 190 and leave a message. Alternatively, you can contact the Parish Office. Letters with all the information are available at the back of both churches.

Warm Welcome Event

Sat, 28 Oct 2023 18:57:05 GMT

Mon 30 ^th October, 10am – 12 noon at Fareham Library

Hampshire Library Service are pleased to be working together with Connect4Communities once again this year to provide signposting and support for members of the community struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.

Local organisations and services will be at the event with representatives available for people to talk to including:

Hitting the Cold Spots, DWP, Blue Lamp Trust, Barnardos, Southern Water, Connect to Support, Health Visiting, Christians Together, Home Library Service.

View the poster here

Basics Bank

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 08:47:22 GMT

BASICS BANK - First Sunday of the Month

To see the current shopping list for donations, visit www.friendsofthehomeless.org.uk

Children's Liturgy

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 21:50:46 GMT

CHILDREN’S LITURGY

Free resources to help your child grow in faith; www.casoportsmouth.org.uk/daily-worship www.cafod.org.uk/education/children-s-liturgy

PARISH ECOLOGY GROUP

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 14:57:39 GMT

PARISH ECOLOGY GROUP “P.E.G” MEETING

Fri 27th Oct, 7:30pm at Sacred Heart Hall

All are welcome to attend. For more information about the PEG group, please contact John & Esme Vivian at john.vivian@ntlworld.com

ADULT JOURNEY IN FAITH

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 13:25:09 GMT

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

ADULT JOURNEY IN FAITH

Wednesdays 7pm - 9pm at Sacred Heart Hall

For anyone wanting to know more about the Catholic Church. RCIA is for those seeking answers and wanting to learn more about what Catholics believe. No commitment is requested or required – we are happy always, to share our journey with you. For more info, contact in confidence, the Parish Office.

25th Oct Topic: “All Souls” 1st Nov: No session

UCM

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 13:09:16 GMT

UCM MEETING - Mon 30th Oct, 7pm at SHH

From 7pm for coffee/tea with the meeting starting at 7:30pm and closing at 9pm. All are welcome!

----------

CRAFT & NATTER GROUP

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 11:32:12 GMT

UPDATE

CRAFT & NATTER GROUP. Tuesdays 1 - 4pm at SHH

For those who enjoy crafting (or would like to learn?) or come just for fellowship! All are very welcome. Ploughman’s lunch, fellowship and crafting.

-----------------------------------------------------

PORTSMOUTH VOCATIONS

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 11:09:48 GMT

Please pray for much needed Vocations

PORTSMOUTH VOCATIONS www.portsmouthvocations.org Contact Canon John at 01329 318 869 or

vocations@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

Lord Jesus Christ, Shepherd of souls
who called the apostles to be fishers of men,
raise up new apostles in your holy Church.
Teach them to serve you is to reign; to possess you is to possess all things. Kindle in the young hearts of our sons and daughters the fire of real zeal for souls.
Make them eager to spread your Kingdom on earth. Grant them courage to follow you,
who are the Way, the Truth and the Life;
who live and reign for ever and ever. Amen.

“Seeker Evenings” Pray, Decide & Don’t Worry
1st Fridays 7 - 9pm, at Sacred Heart Presbytery. Fellowship, discussion, adoration. For those with “that itch”. Welcome!

November month of Prayer

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 09:10:29 GMT

NOVEMBER MONTH OF PRAYER FOR THE FAITHFUL DEPARTED

Word of God Sessions

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 08:56:28 GMT

‘WORD OF GOD’ SESSIONS

Once a month Weds - 6pm. Our Lady, Stubbington

Dcn Andrew will be running once a month sessions delving deeper into the Bible and helping with our understanding of the Word of God. All are welcome and there is no commitment. The upcoming session is:

8th November - The Writings of St Paul

The Liturgy Project

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 08:55:23 GMT

THE LITURGY PROJECT - PORTSMOUTH DIOCESE

A free resource which exists to help people to
encounter Christ through the liturgy of the Holy
Mass. It contains lots of useful information such as;
guides for every Sunday, frequently asked questions, liturgy guidance and Resources; www.theliturgyproject.com

A message from Wendy Escott and Family

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 08:41:14 GMT

A MESSAGE FROM WENDY ESCOTT & FAMILY

Thank you to the parish community for your recent support these last few weeks. The cards and messages of condolences have been a comfort and the good attendance at the funeral service was really touching.

Thank you to the Kerala Community

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 08:39:43 GMT

A very big thank you to the Kerala Community for organising such a fantastic Parish Social on Sat 30th Sept!

The evening was a great success with the hall decorated beautifully, delicious food, traditional music, dancing and cultural presentation.

Thank you to everyone who came and supported the event, an amazing £1,650 has been raised for the parish lighting project! Watch this space for future events!

All Saints Day - November

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 08:52:18 GMT

ALL SAINTS’ DAY Wednesday 1st November 10am at Sacred Heart Church 1:30pm at St Philip Howard Ch. St Jude’s School Mass 7:30pm at Sacred Heart Church ALL SOULS’ DAY Thursday 2nd November 10am at Sacred Heart Church 7:30pm at St Philip Howard Church (Pastoral Area Mass) In this forth coming month of the Holy Souls, we encourage you to increase your prayers for the holy souls - our family members, friends, and all those who have no one to pray for them. "When a man is dead, he can do nothing more for himself ... But we can do something for the faithful departed in purgatory. Our love extends into the afterlife. Through our fasting, prayers, and good works, but especially through the celebration of Holy Eucharist, we can obtain grain for the departed" (YouCat 160)

LITTLE TREASURES TODDLER GROUP

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 15:12:59 GMT

LITTLE TREASURES’ TODDLER GROUP Every Tuesday, 9:30am - 11am at SPHH It costs just £1.50 for children to come and play with a lovely selection of toys and for carers to have a hot drink and biscuit. We look forward to welcoming you.

PARISH BEREAVEMENT “BETHANY” GROUP

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 11:39:25 GMT

Thursday 17th August, 10am at Sacred Heart Hall

Held on 3rd Thursdays - for anyone who has lost a loved one. A warm, welcoming and safe space to be …

For more info email; bethany@gmail.com

UPDATES:

PARISH BEREAVEMENT “BETHANY” GROUP Thursday 19th Oct, 10am at Sacred Heart Hall Held on 3rd Thursdays - for anyone who has lost a loved one. A warm, welcoming and safe space to be … For more info email; bethany@gmail.com

PARISH BEREAVEMENT “BETHANY” GROUP Thursday 21st Sep, 10am at Sacred Heart Hall Held on 3rd Thursdays - for anyone who has lost a loved one. A warm, welcoming and safe space to be … For more info email; bethany@gmail.com

CONFIRMATION “CHOSEN” YOUTH GROUP

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 11:11:27 GMT

‘CHOSEN’ CONFIRMATION GROUP

Session 1: Fri 13th Oct, 7pm - 8:30pm at SH Hall Theme; “Beginning the Journey, learning to serve”

Sacred Heart: Lighting Project Update

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 09:53:28 GMT

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we undertake the Lighting Project at Sacred Heart Church. The final adjustments will be made Mon 16th - Wed 18th October. The church will be closed during this time but Mass will take place in the hall and parish groups can continue as normal. The work at St Philip Howard Church & Hall will commence on Mon 16th Oct and will take approx. 10 days. Parish groups can continue as normal unless specifically notified by the Parish Office.

Cafod Family Fast Day

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 09:04:54 GMT

CAFOD FAMILY FAST DAY - 7th/8th Oct

Dr Nasha’s mobile medical clinic gets live-saving help to where it is needed most, fast. So when her team arrived in Pakistan after it had been destroyed by flooding, she was able to give local people the treatment they needed. For more info about CAFOD’s work, visit www.cafod.org.uk

You can give to this collection via the envelopes provided (including those wishing to Gift Aid) or by using the Dona Plates (non Gift Aid only).

Evening of Hymns & Songs of Praise

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 09:03:00 GMT

EVENING OF HYMNS & SONGS OF PRAISE

Wed 25th Oct, 6:30pm at Our Lady Church, Stubbington

Choose your favourite hymn and enjoy a "good sing" with the Choir of Our Lady's Church at our fundraising evening.

The cut off for hymn requests is Mon 16th Oct at 12 noon. All requests can be given to 07523 995 710 or email music@ourladyandstjohn.co.uk

Donations to our Piano Fund are welcome on the night and there will be refreshments available.

October - Devotion: the Holy Rosary

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 08:48:56 GMT

Rosary before Weekday Mass at 9:45am Rosary & Benediction; Sundays, 4pm at SH Ch. October is traditionally the month dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary. Mary's apparitions around the world are holy “wake up calls” for all Christians to shape up and focus on Jesus, Her Son! The Rosary is a wonderful prayer for us to say, praying to Our Lord for protection from all danger, sickness and evil.

Thank you and Welcome Fr Anthony

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 07:25:45 GMT

A WARM WELCOME and thank you to Fr Anthony Fyk celebrating Mass for on the 7th/8th October while Cn John is on a Vocation visit.

World mission Sunday

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 09:06:33 GMT

On this day the whole 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 theme chosen by the Holy Father is: ‘Hearts on fire, feet on the move’ (based on Luke 24). In his message for World Mission Sunday, 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.’

Donations and prayers on this day have a direct impact on Catholic communities overseas where the Church is too young, too small, or too poor to flourish without help. Donations help build the Church, support vocations, and enable missionaries to carry out their mission in often dangerous and remote places. For more info about the work of Missio, visit www.missio.org.uk

You can give to this collection via the envelopes provided (including those wishing to Gift Aid) or by using the Dona Plates (non Gift Aid only).

Come as you are - Welcome October 8th

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 08:01:44 GMT

A welcoming service of Holy Communion hosted by LGBTQ+ Christians and friends

Sunday, October 8th 5pm

Theme: Reap

Welcomers at the Parish

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 09:51:36 GMT

SUNDAY 6PM MASS - WELCOMERS

We continue to receive such positive feedback from our visitors about the warm welcome received. Thank to all the Welcomers for their hard work and dedication.

The Sunday 6pm Team has sadly lost a couple of members and is now stretched. It would be lovely to grow the team and spread the workload. If you would like to
learn more about becoming a welcomer,

please do speak to any members of the team or contact the Parish Office.

Board Games Care - Sat 7th Oct

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 09:47:30 GMT

BOARD GAMES CAFÉ T Sat 7th October, 2pm - 4pm at St Philip Howard Hall

A wonderful afternoon to hang out with other

families from the parish and school community. A great se- lection of games! You're welcome to bring your favourites from home. Cost is £3 per family and you'll find a cup of tea/ coffee as well as biscuits & home-made cakes. All welcome!

PARISH OFFICE CLOSED 22nd DEC-3RD J AN

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 18:39:38 GMT

Parish Office - The Office will be closed 9th & 10th Oct. For all urgent enquiries please leave a voicemail.

Announcement: Sacred Heart Church - Open Early!

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 12:32:07 GMT

A thank you to Commercial Lighting and electrician Brant for the installation of the new lighting at in Sacred Heart Church. Phase 1 has been completed early, so the Church is now open as usual for reflection and prayer. A big thank you to the benefactors of the Living Our Faith and Closer to Christ campaigns enabling this work to be done. AMDG.

St Jude's School Newsletter

Sun, 10 Sep 2023 09:16:57 GMT

School News and Updates:

Please the latest newsletter for St Jude's.

Newsletter

October Devotions

Sun, 03 Sep 2023 08:16:22 GMT

OCTOBER DEVOTIONS Rosary before Weekday Mass at 9:45am As the month of October comes close, let us continue to grow in knowledge of the importance of the Blessed Mother and her role in the sanctification of the Church and in our pursuit of holiness. Mary's apparitions around the world are holy “wake up calls” for all Christians to shape up and focus on Jesus, Her Son! The honour we give to God alone is properly called adoration, the highest honour we can give. The honour we give to Mary and the saints is called veneration. St Pope Paul VI in Lumen Gentium said, “Our communion with those in heaven… in no way weakens, but conversely, more thoroughly enriches the worship we give to God the Father, through Christ, in the Spirit." If you would be happy to lead the rosary for us before weekday mass, please let Holly know at 01329 318869 and we can arrange a rota. Thank you

Online Appeal for Cathedral Westwing

Sun, 03 Sep 2023 07:09:25 GMT

Due to deterioration in the leadwork, the window began to collapse earlier this year, requiring scaffolding to be erected to hold it in place. In early July, specialist contractors removed the glass to their workshop for restoration. We hope that the glass will be reinstalled in the early autumn.

Along with local parishioners, the wider Diocese is encouraged to support and donate any amount, perhaps in memory of a loved one, to help with the cost of the restoration. People may text WINDOW to 70560 to donate £10 to the appeal or can now donate online at https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/campaign/st-johns-catholic-cathedral-west-window-restoration-appeal

The names of donors will be recorded in a special commemorative book at the Cathedral.

You might like to listen to an interview by Fr James McAuley, Dean of the St John’s Catholic Cathedral, as he talks to the Portsmouth News about the restoration project for the Cathedral West Wing Window and the appeal towards the £100k costs of repair.

AUGUST: PRAISE & WORSHIP EVENINGS

Sat, 02 Sep 2023 14:48:06 GMT

PRAISE & WORSHIP EVENINGS Fridays; 22nd Sep and 20th Oct, 7:30pm St Philip Howard Church. All are welcome.

Catholic Woman's League

Sat, 02 Sep 2023 08:10:16 GMT

C ATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE MEETING Wed 13th Sep, 1:30pm at Our Lady Stubbington All are welcome from across the pastoral area. Our speaker Dcn John Cumpsty will explore the role of a Permanent Deacon. For more info; margieboulter@aol.com

Contemplating Mary

Sat, 02 Sep 2023 07:43:18 GMT

CONTEMPLATING MARY STAR OF THE NEW EVANGELISATION Wed 6th September, 7pm - 9pm online Dr Denise Clare Oliver and Dr Christina Pal from the new Apostolate, Life in Truth invite you to join them for this FREE evening online, considering the Blessed Virgin Mary’s mediation and her unique role in her Son’s plan for the salvation of the world. Register at; info@lifeintruth.org

OFS (Order of Franciscans) Meeting

Sat, 02 Sep 2023 07:39:39 GMT

OFS MEETING Sat 15th Feb. 12-3.30pm, Sacred Heart

Please contact; franciscansolent@outlook.com for info.

A message from Faith Fairman

Sat, 02 Sep 2023 07:28:47 GMT

A MESSAGE FROM FAITH FAIRMAN A big thank you to everyone who has contributed to my World Challenge trip to Borneo in 2024. An amazing £545 was raised! I look forward to telling you all about my trip.

Weekly Devotion

Sat, 02 Sep 2023 07:18:20 GMT

WEEKDAY DEVOTION Tuesday and Friday, 10am at Sacred Heart Church We are mindful that a lot of parishioners come to church not only as part of their spiritual life, but a lso for their social life. As there are several occasions where there are no weekday Masses, we felt it would be a benefit for the parish to offer a Holy Half an Hour followed by tea and coffee in the hall. This will take place on a Tuesday and Friday at 10am. It would be lovely for you to join us.

Parish Social - Hosted by Kerala Community

Sun, 20 Aug 2023 09:34:53 GMT

PARISH SOCIAL

HOSTED BY THE KERALA COMMUNITY

Sat 30th September, 4pm onwards at

St Philip Howard Hall

A wonderful evening for all of us to come together after the

summer break. A family evening consisting of; a 3 course

meal, cultural music and live bands, traditional dancing, and

activities for children. Bring your own drinks.

Tickets: £15 per head and children under 12 go free. Please

book your place and give any dietary requirements (e.g.

gluten free, vegetarian etc.) via the Parish Office. All money

raised will support the parish lighting project.

All are welcome (but because of the tradition of the cooking

ingredients, unfortunately for those who suffer from nut

allergies, maybe this is not for you!). New to the parish?

Come and join us.

The Ascension App

Sun, 20 Aug 2023 09:30:43 GMT

THE ASCENSION APP

A Bible and Catechism app that helps

Catholics love and understand God's Word,

and his plan of sheer goodness for their lives.

Every single screen has been lovingly designed to create the

most exceptional experience of any Bible mobile app.

A must have! Fresh, free and easy to use …

Engaging the Disengaged

Sat, 12 Aug 2023 22:47:59 GMT

ENGAGING THE DISENGAGED – How to accompany the non-religious person in daily life

Tues 21st November, 6pm online seminar

The Catholic Diocese of Portsmouth in partnership with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England

and Wales is delighted to release details of an online seminar exploring strategies for all Catholics to

fulfil their mission to bring people closer to Christ.

The keynote address will be given by internationally acclaimed and bestselling author Sherry Anne Weddell from the Catherine of Siena Institute. Sherry has developed numerous unique formation resources that are used around the world and trained and helps lead an international team who have worked directly with over 130,000 lay, religious, and ordained Catholics in hundreds of parishes in 150 (arch)dioceses on 5 continents. Her book Forming Intentional Disciples has sold more than 150,000 copies.

Demand for the event is expected to be high and early booking is advised to reserve a place. Tickets are priced at £10 per person and can be purchased by visiting the link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/engaging-the-disengaged-how-to-accompany-non-religious-persons-t ickets-646139539757

A Message from Family Matters

Sat, 12 Aug 2023 22:45:56 GMT

A MESSAGE FROM FAMILY MATTERS

To help with the self-employment of the father of our family in producing wooden craft work, we are looking to source either the donations of a small 2 or 3 wheel band saw and a reasonable quality belt or disc sander. Alternatively cheap 2nd hand items may be of interest for our group to purchase on their behalf.

If you have such items or know of such items please contact paultomlinson@ntlworld.com or phone 07941 328 278.

Update on Tuesday Adorations

Sat, 12 Aug 2023 22:44:44 GMT

UPDATE ON TUESDAY ADORATION

We are hoping to have Adoration every Tuesday from 10am (if there is no morning Mass) until 8pm.

A rota will be created to cover the day.

Thank you to everyone who has already signed up. We cannot start until all the times are suitably

covered and so if you would like to nominate an hour which you would be able to dedicate weekly,

please contact the Parish Office.

The gaps are as follows:

10am – 11am (if there is Mass it will be 10:30am – 11am) = 3 Adorers needed

12 noon – 1pm = 2 Adorers needed

1pm – 2pm = 2 Adorers needed

2pm – 3pm = 3 Adorers needed

4pm – 5pm = 2 Adorers needed

5pm – 6pm = 1 Adorer needed

6pm – 7pm = 2 Adorers needed

“Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory”. Rev 19:7.

Catechism in a Year

Sat, 05 Aug 2023 22:12:09 GMT

THE CATECHISM IN A YEAR - PODCAST

With Fr. Mike Schmitz.

Maybe you’ve only ever read parts of the

Catechism, or maybe you aren’t familiar with

this book at all. Regardle ss of your current knowledge of the

Catechism or our faith, this podcast will help you learn more

and grow closer to God. Fr Mike will offer encouragement

and insight on the readings as we go to help us clearly

understand Church teaching and allow those truths to shape

our lives, day by day.

The Catechism discusses and explains the teachings of the

Catholic Church. It’s rooted in Scripture and because we’ll

be reading it in podcast form, it is easy and accessible. Each

of the daily episodes will be about 15-20 mins long. The

podcast is free and available on all majory podcast apps and

YouTube. For more info visit AscensionPress.com/CIY

Catholic Woman's League

Sat, 05 Aug 2023 21:47:04 GMT

Wed 9th Aug, 1:30pm at Our Lady, Stubbin gton

Our group consists of members from all the parishes in this

area, all are welcome. For more info contact 01329 661927.

ST Anne's Catholic School Open Day

Sat, 05 Aug 2023 21:41:04 GMT

Parents with daughters in Years 4, 5 and 6 can

visit us on Wed 27th Sep for our Open Morning

(9am - 11am) and/or our Open Evening (6pm - 8pm).

Parents can book free tick ets at www.st-annes.uk.com/web

Open mornings give parents the opportunity to see the

school on a normal day and talk to their student guides as

they tour the school. Open evenings provide the

opportunity to talk with staff and students.

The Liturgy Project

Sat, 05 Aug 2023 14:56:17 GMT

A free resource which exists to help people to encounter Christ through the liturgy of the Holy Mass. It contains lots of useful information such as; guides for every Sunday, frequently asked questions, Liturgy Guidance and Resources; www.theliturgyproject.com

SVP - THANKSGIVING MASS AND CREAM TEA

Sat, 05 Aug 2023 12:36:52 GMT

SVP Thanksgiving Mass & Cream Tea Thurs 10th August, 2pm More info. to follow

Diocese Update: Spiritual Formation Team

Sat, 22 Jul 2023 15:24:46 GMT

Every year as I read the Emmaus story, I ask myself: "Why did the disciples not recogniseJesus on the road to Emmaus?" How could they not know that this was their friend with whom they had spent the last few years? Of course, after the crucifixion they weren't expecting to see Jesus.

SVP - SURPASS TARGET!

Sat, 22 Jul 2023 15:21:00 GMT

Please join us in congratulating Fr. Tomy Chirackalmanavalan and the parishioners of St Vincent de Paul, Southampton who have exceeded their target this week.

View the SVP Newsletter

MASS INTENTIONS

Sat, 22 Jul 2023 15:16:00 GMT

MASS INTENTIONS

To avoid disappointment, please books your Masses a couple of months in advance if you would like a specific date. The next available date is 29th October.

ST JOHNS CATHEDRAL

Sat, 22 Jul 2023 15:10:23 GMT

ST JOHN’S CATHEDRAL WEST WINDOW RESTORATION

This very old window that suffered major storm damage has now been removed for restoration and contains approx. 9,700 panes of glass! Text WINDOW to 70560 to donate £10 to restore one pane. Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network message charge, and you will be opting into hearing more from us.

To donate without hearing more, text WINDOWNOINFO instead

LIGHT OF TRUTH

Sat, 22 Jul 2023 15:08:27 GMT

LIGHT OF TRUTH FORMATION COURSES

The Dominican Sisters of St Joseph, are offering a range of free (donations welcome) online formation courses to help adult Catholics, and in particular parish catechists, to grow in their faith. For more info. about the courses visit www.lightoftruth.uk

INVITATION FROM THE BISHOP

Sat, 22 Jul 2023 14:50:44 GMT

INVITATION FROM THE BISHOP

In his recent pastoral letter, Bishop Philip noted that structural change will fail without deep, personal change in ourselves and our communities. How might we as a parish community and as individuals change in order to respond more fully to the call to evangelise the world in which we live? The Bishop asks each member of the diocese to adopt six holy habits:

1. To keep Sunday special, as a family day, by attending Mass, the ‘source and summit’ of the Christian life, supporting your parish community.

2. To spend at least five minutes a day in prayer, at whatever time you find best, using the Scriptures, maybe the Gospel of the day.

3. To keep Friday as a day of penance in honour of the Lord’s Passion, intentionally serving the poor and needy.

4. At least once a fortnight, to pay a private visit to church for a short period of prayer before the Blessed Sacrament.

5. To go to Confession once a month or so, like a spiritual check-up when you can personally experience God’s love and mercy.

6. To join a small faith group for formation, prayer and fellowship, where you can share with others your own

faith-experience and in turn hear what God is doing in the lives of others.

PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 22:22:32 GMT

PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK SHRINE, IRELAND 2nd October for 4 nights £699 per person sharing. Price includes flight, all transfers, 4 nights full board at Knock House Hotel & excursions; day trips to Westport, Ballintubber Abbey, Croagh Patrick, Fr. Peyton Centre and National Museum. For info contact Natali at 07740 175 557 / knockpilgrimages@gmail.com

NEW SACRED HEART LECTERN

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 21:58:09 GMT

NEW SACRED HEART LECTERN

Thank you so much to the sponsor of the beautiful wooden lectern used for holding the Word of God. AMDG.

Catholic Woman's League

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 21:56:49 GMT

Wed 12th July, 2pm at St John’s Church, Lee-on-the-Solent

Have you ever been a member of the Catholic Women's League or would you like to find out more

about the local Gosport Section? We started 63yrs ago this September. All are welcome to join

our Strawberry Tea. Please contact Marguerite Boulter on margieboulter@aol.com or call 01489 575663.

Joseph McColl

Annual Naval Mass

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 21:54:50 GMT

Sun 9th July, 10am at St John’s Cathedral

Serving Personnel, Veterans and their families are invited to come together at the Annual Naval Mass to celebrate their identity as members of the Armed Forces in the wider Catholic Community. This year

we are delighted to be joined by Stella Maris who are celebrating their Centenary Year. The dress for serving personnel is Number 1 uniform with medals and veterans are encouraged to wear their medals. The Mass will be followed by a drinks reception in the Cathedral Discovery Centre – all welcome!

GETTING MARRIED?

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:53:40 GMT

Congratulations!

Please note that you need:

-To give 12 months’ notice (minimum)

- If not Confirmed, to join a ‘Journey Into Faith’ in order to celebrate Confirmation.

- To participate in a Marriage Preparation Course.

To find out more contact the Parish Office / Cn John.

VERBUM DEI RETREAT FOR MARRIED COUPLES

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:46:33 GMT

Pat & Jim Gilhooley say…

We can’t recommend the recent Verbum Dei Retreat for highly enough. The centre on the Isle of Wight is a peaceful oasis and the community offered wonderful hospitality. We had comfortable accommodation, super food and brilliant input from knowledgeable and inspiring married speakers. The chapel is simple and prayerful, but rang out with beautiful singing and music during Mass. We came home refreshed with new ideas of God’s plan for married couples and new learning on how better to communicate with each other and God.

Watch out for details of the next retreat from; 7th - 9th October at www.uk.verbumdei.org

CAN YOU HELP RUN ALPHA?

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:43:50 GMT

Alpha is a series of sessions exploring Christianity. It is an accessible, user-friendly programme that offers individuals of all ages and backgrounds the opportunity to discover, or rediscover, the meaning and joy of the Christian message.

An Alpha programme is planned for Autumn 2023, open to all across our Pastoral Area. There are many ways to be Involved; from registration to food prep to hosting and everything in between.

If you can join the team and make Alpha happen, please come along to a meeting on Tues 18th July, 7:30pm at Sacred Heart Hall. For more info please contact Wendy at; w.escott@virgin.net

SECOND COLLECTION - STELLA MARIS Sat 8th / Sun 9th July

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:42:20 GMT

Seafarers and fishers play a vital role in all of our lives, but they often work in difficult, hazardous conditions. In the last year, more crews have been abandoned by their employers than ever before. Many are still being denied the right to leave their ships for even a short break away from the relentless noise and pressure onboard. Many are reporting more stress and poorer mental health. Sea Sunday is when the Church prays for all those who live and work at sea.

For more info. please visit www.stellamaris.org.uk

You can support this collection by BACS, cash or cheque with the reference “Stella Maris”, or use the contactless plates in both church foyers.

CHRISTIAN HERITAGE COURSES

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:24:51 GMT

Catholicism and Contemporary Culture: 3rd - 6th August

Explore the themes of truth, reality and sacramentality, and the differences in the Catholic and secular conceptions of these. The course will be of particular support to teachers of RE, catechists and those working with youth and young adults.

Human Nature, Gender and Identity: 25th - 28th August

This course will explore how Thomas Aquinas's anthropology provides the framework for the Church's understanding of what and who the human person is. The course will be of particular interest to those teaching theology.

Residential and non-residential options available.

For more info. www.christianheritagecentre.com/events

REPOSITORY

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:21:07 GMT

Please remember that both churches have a Repository which has a range of cards suitable for many occasions, along with various religious items. St Philip Howard Repository is in the foyer and at Sacred Heart it is in the Hall. You can browse at any time and we operate an honesty box. Alternatively, you can use the contactless plates with the collection marked Repository.

Christmas cards and gifts (!) will be available from Sat 4th November. If you are looking for something that we do not stock, please contact the Parish Office.

MASS INTENTIONS

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:13:12 GMT

To avoid disappointment, please books your Masses a couple of months in advance if you would like a specific date.

The next available date is 27th October. We also ask for Mass Offerings to be paid at the time of booking. The Bishops’ Conference’s recommendation is £10.00.

‘LITTLE TREASURES’ TODDLER GROUP

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:12:23 GMT

Tuesdays, 9:30am - 11am at St PH Hall

All are welcome to join our stay & play session with lots of great toys. No need to sign up, we just ask for a donation of £1.50.

A MESSAGE FROM BISHOP PHILIP

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:07:30 GMT

“Dear Brothers and Sisters, after more than a decade as your Bishop and in common with my predecessor, I am writing to let you know that I will be taking a period of study leave this autumn from 5th September until late November. I will be spending most of the time at the Catholic University of America in Washington, where I will be undertaking theological research, and living at the Dominican House of Studies. Upon return, I will then take my annual spiritual retreat and a few days away. The leave will give time for prayer, reflection and renewal – key tenets of our collective mission – which, please God, will enable me to fulfil the ministry of Bishop with even greater energy in the years ahead.”

Let us keep Bp. Philip in our prayers hoping he enjoys a well deserved sabbatical and recharge!

Fourteenth & fifteenth Sundays in Ordinary Time - Year A

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:05:14 GMT

‘Through the tough times’

Whatever demands Jesus may make on our following of Him, He wants to be at all times truly a source of comfort, of consolation and of forgiveness and reconciliation for others.

Whatever demands life may be making on us, He is there too to be called on. When we are in difficulties and pain, we can ask Him to take them away. He may not always do so, but we can expect Him to restore our peace. For we need to remember that Jesus is not to be seen as an escape from our problems. Sometimes He will give us peace not from our pain but within our pain. There can be the danger that we expect Jesus, or His Mother, or some other saint, or the Church to be there to wave a magic wand that wipes away all our problems, all difficulties, all obstacles. Jesus’ own life is an excellent example.

In the Garden of Gethsemane, faced with imminent arrest, torture and execution, He did not want to have to go through it. This is a perfectly normal human reaction to the threat of death. Anything else would be very strange (yet one sometimes hears people speak as if Jesus actually wanted to go through all those terrible experiences). Jesus begged his Father to spare Him going through this appalling ordeal. “Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me,” he prayed but then, at the end of his prayer, said: “Nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.” (Matt 26:39) The Father was silent and His Will was clear. Jesus should face what is coming. And, when sometime later, Jesus rises from his prayer, He is a very different person. From that moment on and for the rest of his Passion experience He reveals nothing but quiet dignity & strength in the face of all kinds of abuse and humiliations.

He is full of an inner peace, which had come once He had said that total ‘Yes’ to His Father. His prayer in the garden had been answered, although not in the way he originally requested.

Here we might say we have the two sides of the Gospel coming together. On the one hand, Jesus makes that absolute and total surrender of Himself into God’s hands but, at the same time, experiences the “rest” that comes to those who “labour and are overburdened”.

Adapted from The Living Word, Redemptorist Publications

PILGRIMAGE TO WALSINGHAM

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 22:21:04 GMT

PILGRIMAGE TO WALSINGHAM The OFS in Fareham are planning another Pilgrimage to Walsingham in June 2024. We would like to know how many would be interested in joining with the St Anthony Fraternity. When we know the numbers we will organise a special meeting with fuller details. If interested, please contact John & Esme

SECOND COLLECTION - STELLA MARIS Sat 8th / Sun 9th July

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 12:39:29 GMT

THANK YOU from Cn John

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 12:30:20 GMT

Thank you, to everyone for the lovely messages, cards and gifts received last week for my ordination anniversary – and for my birthday. Really touched by the overwhelming generosity, joy and love shown. Humbled. As I said, I am very lucky to have been sent to Fareham & Portchester to serve as your priest.

Please continue to pray for me, but especially pray for the task that I have been charged with to help promote and encourage an increasing culture of Vocation in the Diocese

CONFIRMATION CELEBRATION. Sun 18th June

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 12:27:11 GMT

Bishop Philip has asked his thanks be passed on to everyone who made the Confirmation celebration a wonderful gathering. He wrote; ‘

' The Confirmations were a true moment of joy today – thank you so much for organising everything and for the music, the servers, and the great joy with which things went. There was a real buzz – a long Mass but all well … Thank you for the card, the gift and the enclosures. Please pass on [my] thanks … God bless you – and see you soon .’

+Philip

Cn. John would like to say a big thank you to the members of the “pop up” choir, led by Chris Lane, that sang at the Confirmation. Fantastic! Thank you for giving up your evenings for rehearsals and for guiding the music on the day. A big thank you to all our catechists who prepared our young people for Confirmation 2023.

Twelfth & Thirteenth Sundays in Ordinary Time - Year A

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 12:18:24 GMT

EUCHARIST - PREPARATION

Our pilgrimage to Mass begins before we leave home, in our morning prayers and preparation. Once in church our preparation intensifies as we pray silently. Perhaps we may read over the scripture readings and the words of a hymn. The priest enters and we stand together. This is the moment we become a community. Recently we celebrated the Feast of Corpus Christi during which St Paul reminded us that “we form a single body because we all have a share in this one loaf”. That is why when come together we seek forgiveness and then join the angels of Bethlehem singing “Glory to God in the highest”, peace to people of goodwill. The Collect (the opening prayer) is prayed, so called because it collects our individual prayers together. Then we listen to God’s Word, attentively and prayerfully.

If we make time to be still and silently pray, “What, Lord, do you want me to hear today?” He may have a personal word with us! This is what happened to St Francis when he heard the Gospel read one day in Assisi. Through the words of consecration, through the power of the Holy Spirit, St Francis tells us: “Christ, the Son of the living God, is present on the altar in the hands of a priest! Let everyone be struck with fear, let the whole world tremble, and let the heavens exult.”

As we come to the end of the run of the big festivals celebrating our Easter faith; Ascension, Pentecost, Holy Trinity, Corpus Christi, Sacred Heart and Ss Peter and Paul we are remembering that every celebration of the Eucharist is, for us, a foretaste of heaven. Let us seek to prepare, with all creatures of heaven and earth to sing a new song in adoration, and with all the host of Angels, cry out, and without end we acclaim, Holy, Holy Holy!

Adapted from The Living Word, Redemptorist Publications

PARISH ECOLOGY GROUP - PEG

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 12:51:56 GMT

Fri 28th July, 7pm at Sacred Heart Hall

We will be joined by Tools for Self Reliance who will speak about their work and how we can help support their “Tool Drive”. We will be holding a quiz with refreshment as a fundraising event. Tickets are available from John & Esme Vivian. For more info about Tools, visit www.tfsr.org

ALTON DAY OF RENEWAL

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 11:37:34 GMT

Sat 24th Jun, 10am - 1pm on Zoom

Theme - “Freedom to Prisoners, the power of forgiveness” All are welcome to join us for Mass, Adoration, Praise and inspiring guest speaker Bishop David Oakley. Please register for the Zoom meeting in advance at bit.ly/ADOREJUN2023

BOARD GAMES CAFÉ

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 11:26:37 GMT

Sat 24th June, 2pm - 4pm at St PH Hall

A wonderful afternoon to hang out with other families from the parish and school community. A great selection of games! You're welcome to bring your favourites from home. The cost is £3 per family and you'll find a cup of tea / coffee as well as biscuits and home-made cakes. All are very welcome! Visit; https://northgosport.churchsuite.com/events/xldglumr

NEW MASS TIMES - EFFECTIVE FROM 12TH JUNE

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 11:20:41 GMT

Post-pandemic the parish has continued to grow and thrive. Mass attendance has increased and there are a growing number of parish groups for parishioners to be part of. To better serve parishioners, there will be some changes to the Mass Timetable, Adoration and Confessions.

Tuesday 10am Mass SH. Adoration until 12 noon

Wednesday 10am Mass SPH

Thursday 10am Mass SH Adoration ‘Vocations’ 7 - 8pm

Friday 10am Mass SH

Confessions

Thursdays after Mass in Presbytery Day Room 1st Saturdays; 10am - 11am SH Church 2nd, 3rd, 4th Saturdays; 5pm in Confessional

Adoration

If you can be a Guardian on a Tuesday morning or Thursday evening, please contact the Parish Office.

FIRST EUCHARIST GATHERING

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 11:15:28 GMT

A very big thank you to the Parish UCM (Union of Catholic Mothers) for providing the hospitality following our First Eucharist Mass, ensuring a warm welcome for everyone. A wonderful celebration.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 10:57:05 GMT

We wish Cn. John a happy birthday for Sat 17th June. Please also remember him in your prayers on his priestly ordination anniversary on Monday 19th (30 years!) A.M.D.G

WELCOME AND THANK YOU

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 10:53:34 GMT

A warm welcome to Fr Anthony Fyk celebrating Sun 6pm Mass on 18th June. Cn. John will be with the Team after celebrating Sunday Masses and the Solent Pastoral Area Confirmation at the Cathedral.

Corpus Christi & Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year A

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 10:50:45 GMT

The Body and Blood of Christ - THE GREATEST GIFT

Perhaps the greatest gift that Jesus left behind to his fledgling Church, apart from the example of his own teaching, life and death, was the Eucharist. With justification, the Eucharist is often spoken of as the very centre of Christian living. There is a very real danger for Christian communities of collapsing or degenerating when deprived of the Eucharist for any length of time. No one can in effect remain a committed Christian without participation in the Eucharist.

Every persecuted Church realises this and struggles to keep the Eucharist alive in its communities. We have seen that in countless examples over the centuries, including our own. We have seen how Catholics in China went to enormous lengths to celebrate the Eucharist in spite of appalling difficulties.

In Ireland, people will point out lonely outcrops known as “Mass rocks” in remote parts of the country where persecuted Catholics secretly celebrated the Eucharist at the risk of death. In England, you will be shown the hiding places for priests on the run who went from house to house to provide the Eucharist for Catholics who risked martyrdom if they were discovered celebrating the “Popish Mass”. It is sad, then, to find in our persecution-free societies today how many have lost this sense of the centrality of the Eucharist in Christian living.

What do we do at the Eucharist? Basically we do two things: we remember (in the Jewish sense of the word) we give thanks and we offer a sacrifice of worship to the Father. We remember with deep gratitude all that God has done for us in Jesus Christ, through his life, suffering, death and resurrection. He is the Lamb. We also remember and give thanks for all our own personal experiences of God’s love at work in our lives. It is a time to count our blessings. And we remember and give thanks not only for what happened a long time ago but most especially for what is happening in our lives at this time. We come together to celebrate our being a community and a fellowship in Christ.

Today is the feast of the Body and Blood of Christ. When we approach the altar to receive the Eucharist, the priest says, “The Body of Christ”. When we respond with our “Amen” of assent in faith, we need to be aware that the Body we are receiving is that Risen Body of Jesus. ‘Communion’ is not just with Jesus but also with all those around us. That is why, before this ‘Communion’ we need to say the Lord’s Prayer in which we ask forgiveness of those we have offended. Of course, it is difficult to have a sense of sharing in the one loaf as the sacrament of one Body, if, in fact, we are not one body. If we are not already a community before we enter the place where the Eucharist is being celebrated, we are not suddenly going to become a community after we come in. That is why Our Lord offers us His grace in the sacrament of Reconciliation. A parish gets the Eucharist it deserves. Poor community, poor Eucharist.

So our celebration of the Eucharist, of the Body and Blood of Christ, is not simply a sentimental commemoration of what happened to the ‘historical’ Jesus 2,000 years ago. It is – in a Jewish spirit of remembrance and thanksgiving – a celebration of what makes us what we are today. We today live, as Paul told the Philippians, sharing in the sufferings of Christ, becoming like him in his death and experiencing the power of his resurrection. The Eucharist is the celebration of a living Body, of which we are a part. It is up to us, with the help of Jesus, whether – to use the other image of Jesus – we are living branches on the parent Vine, or whether we are dying branches that need to be lopped off and thrown away as unfruitful. ( John 15:6 )

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (1324-1327), states that, The Eucharist is "the source and summit" of the Christian life because it is the "sacrament of love." Primarily, of course, this means it is the sacrament of love for us. The Eucharist, is the sacrament of love for God and for our neighbour. Through charity, we embrace God Himself, who is love. By offering ourselves to God through our union with Him in the Eucharist, our love for God reaches a climax: we give ourselves to God in the only way possible-through the Father's own Son, Jesus. In this way, God's gracious invitation to communion with human beings is answered through communion with the Eucharistic Christ. The more we grow in this awareness of the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, in the Tabernacle and His living and acting through each one of us, the more meaningful will be our communion with each other be.

READERS FOR SUNDAY MASSES

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 11:41:30 GMT

A reminder that anyone who would like to join the roster to read at any of the Sunday Masses, is invited to attend a training sessions on Tues 13th Jun, 7:30pm at Sacred Heart Hall. If possible, please contact the Parish Office.

New Website

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 12:46:19 GMT

This is a test post

Tea and Coffee

anthony@everydaychristianmarketing.co.uk (Anthony Evans) — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 12:23:04 GMT

Welcome to our new parish website. Please do check back soon as we update our parish content

Welcome

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 11:36:28 GMT

Welcome to our new parish website. Please do check back soon as we update our parish content