sacredheartwithstphiliphoward

Cemetery Prayers - Sunday 8th November

Sun, 25 Oct 2026 14:12:57 GMT

Sunday 8th 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.

All Saints Day - November 1st

Fri, 23 Oct 2026 08:52:18 GMT

ALL SAINTS’ DAY

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)

The Joy of Hope

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 18:49:10 GMT

��️ The Joy of Hope: 4-Part CaFE Series

CAROL SERVICE 2026

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 16:26:31 GMT

This years Carol Service on Sunday 13th December 3pm at Immaculate Conception Church Stubbington.

All Souls Day

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 20:53:01 GMT

All Souls November 2nd Parish Mass 10.00am at SH

Solent Pastoral Mass at 7-30pm at St Margaret Mary, Park Gate

"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.

Pilgrimage

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 12:19:31 GMT

PILGRIMAGE Saturday 14th November. £18 pp. To celebrate the feast day of St Edmund of Abingdon. Walking from St Edmund’s, Southampton, to St John’s, Portsmouth. Limited tickets, early booking recommended.

Contact www.pietasproject.com/events

MASS INTENTIONS

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 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.

PRAYER WALKS

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 21:41:04 GMT

PARISH PRAYER WALK

A 45-minute gentle walk.

Please look at the newletter for next date and time. Contact Dcn Larry HER E for more information.

CATHOLIC MOTHERS DISCERNMENT RETREAT DAY

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 20:05:29 GMT

Saturday 7th November 10am - 4.00pm

Our Lady Queen of Apostles, Bishops Waltham, SO32 1DN Cost: £25 (£12 concessions). No one should be prevented from attending because of cost, so please get in touch. For info. email: catholicmotherssoton@gmail.com

Quiz Night

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 19:27:06 GMT

QUIZ NIGHT (AND Optional CURRY) Fri 20th November.

St Philip Howard Hall. £5 per person Bring your own refreshments (or you can order a tasty £10 curry too!). Quiz master – David B-P.

ADORATION

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 18:44:51 GMT

ADORATION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT

‘Could you not watch one hour with me?’

Bathe your soul in the light and love of the real presence of Christ.

Tuesdays ; after 10am Mass – 12 Noon

Thursdays ; 7.30 – 8.30pm

Lady's Group

Fri, 09 Oct 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

Rest In Peace

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 08:51:12 GMT

REST IN PEACE ‘Life is changed not ended’

Please pray for

Allan Bowden RIP, little Mateo RIP and Teresa Doran RIP

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.

A MESSAGE FROM BISHOP PHILIP

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 15:24:49 GMT

Welcome. I invite you to complete a short, anonymous questionnaire about our Holy Habits and the diocesan plan. By sharing your experience you will be actively contributing to the growth and development of the Diocese and helping me discern how the Lord is at work. It will only take a few minutes.

Thank you in advance. We hope to repeat the survey in three years time to view the journey made.

Please scan the QR code or visit https://eu.surveymonkey.com/r/QTBWYRP .

VISIT OF THE RELICS OF ST GERARD MAJELLA

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 14:48:09 GMT

VISIT OF THE RELICS OF ST GERARD MAJELLA

St. John’s Catholic Cathedral, Portsmouth. Saturday 31st October 12:15pm

Mass by Bp Philip. St Gerard is the Patron Saint of mothers, couples trying to conceive, those looking for work and making a good confession. Relics available for personal prayer from 11am; Blessings with the relics afterwards

Development

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 13:04:35 GMT

Subtitle Palm Trees

Main body of post

ST FRANCIS 800th ANNIVERSARY – OFS GROUP

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 14:10:02 GMT

To mark this, a small outdoor space has been created at St Philip Howard Church for his feast day on Sun. 4th Oct. If you would like to contribute towards the cost of this project, please place your donation in a labelled envelope and return it to the Parish Office.

MARRIAGE MATTERS 24th Sun. Ord Time.

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 13:53:57 GMT

The call to forgive. (Matt 18: 21-35)

How can I love my spouse and bring life? We are called to set aside resentment and listen with understanding. In today’s Gospel, the servant who is forgiven refuses to forgive another. God forgives us everything, but are we willing to let go of the hurts caused by our spouse?

FIRST EUCHARIST – FAITH FORMATION

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 20:20:07 GMT

Children in Year 4 and above are invited to join the First Holy Communion programme beginning in January at St Margaret Mary, Park Gate. Sessions run on Saturdays, 10.00 to 11.00am.

ALTAR SERVER TEAM

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 18:22:05 GMT

August “Server of the Month”

Well done to Sean U who has been awarded the Green Cincture of Honour for the coming month (October).

DIOCESAN CATECHIST DAY – PORTSMOUTH DIOCESE

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 15:03:50 GMT

Sat 10 Oct, 9:30am–1:30pm, St Bede's, Basingstoke

Join catechists from across the Diocese for a morning of prayer and formation. All catechists, experienced or new, are warmly invited. To register your interest please go to: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/RFGR0zEzDh Or email Meghan, Formation for Mission Team Leader at: ffm@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

RCIA - ADULT JOURNEY IN FAITH

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 14:41:46 GMT

ADULT JOURNEY IN FAITH (RCIA)

Enquirers’ Group Are you a non-Catholic who wants to come into full communion with the Church, or a “resting” Catholic wanting to "return to the practice of the faith" email Dcn Larry: lmurawski@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

Weekly sessions: Starting 7th Oct . Our Lady, Stubbington.

Formation Group For those who have completed the Enquiry Stage and want to continue their faith formation journey.

Weekly sessions start Weds 9th Sept. 7pm. Sacred Heart Ch. & Hall. Contact Tom: tomjharper@hotmail.co.uk

Please pray for the ministry of our two groups.

GOSPORT SECTION OF THE CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE ANNUAL REVIEW

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 14:21:21 GMT

GOSPORT SECTION OF THE CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE

Meetings resume in October. For more information contact Maria Owen: mariaeowen@gmail.com

CONFIRMATION PATHWAY - “CHOSEN”

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 13:38:37 GMT

Information Evening - Friday 25th Sept 7pm, Immaculate Conception Ch, Stubbington

Calling young people in years 8 and above from the Solent Pastoral Area. Would you like to know more about Jesus? Would you like the Sacrament of Confirmation in 2027?

To register your interest or for an answer to questions, please contact Dcn Andrew Collins on 07485 422 473, or acollins@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk or your parish office.

The first session for Chosen 2026-27 for new and returning members will take place on Fri 9 th October. Venue t.b.c.

Ladies Prayer Group

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 21:23:29 GMT

A chance to say what is inside you. 2nd Wednesdays 7:30pm . At St Philip Howard Church Hall Contact: eloise@olimcomms.com

(ACN) AID TO THE CHURCH IN NEED – PETITION

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 21:06:35 GMT

Sign our Article 18 Petition | Aid to the Church in Need

Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Please support ACN's petition calling on the UK Government and the United Nations to protect religious freedom. Signatures are now being collected.

ASSISTED SUICIDE BILL

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 20:18:07 GMT

ASSISTED SUICIDE BILL – PETITION

2nd Reading of the Bill is this week on Fri. 11th September Visit cbcew.org.uk/opposing-assisted-suicide

Contact your MP as a matter of urgency to express your views on this Bill, even if you have written previously.

Right to Life UK . Visit www.righttolife.org.uk/sept11vote A simple online tool. Send it directly to your MP.

CAR PARKING AT ST PHILIP HOWARD CHURCH

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 15:29:14 GMT

If your vehicle is not registered with the Parish Office, please sign in on the foyer tablet. Regular Wednesday Mass attendees may arrange permanent vehicle registration through the Parish Office.

LOCAL PILGRIMAGE TRAIL ALONG THE MEON VALLEY

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 15:27:43 GMT

In the Footsteps of St Wilfrid. The Meon Valley was among the last parts of England to receive the Christian faith. Between AD 681 and 686, St Wilfrid ministered among the Saxons and Jutes, founding churches that still stand beside the River Meon today.

www.wilfrid-meon-pilgrimage.co.uk

Portsmouth Vocations

Fri, 04 Sep 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”

12th September 11am - 3pm Sacred Heart Hall & Church. ‘Pray, Decide & Don’t Worry’

Fellowship, Discussions, Mass, Lunch and Adoration. For those discerning priesthood or religious life. Welcome!

OUR SYNODAL JOURNEY AS A CHURCH

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 20:33:30 GMT

Synodality invites us to walk together through listening, prayerful discernment, and shared responsibility for our mission. Parishioners are being asked to reflect on our journey and share their views with the Diocesan Team.

Parish Meetings

Come and take part in the conversation. All are invited.

Tuesday 1st Sept . After Mass and 7-9pm at SH Church Hall.

Saturday 5th Sept 2.30pm at SPH Church Hall.

Discussion themes …

How are we living synodality in our Diocese and parish?

How do I contribute to the life and mission of the parish?

How well do we listen, welcome others & discern together?

How can we grow further as a synodal Church?

What steps can we take to help our parish achieve this vision?

Enquirers Journey in Faith Group

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 20:26:47 GMT

ENQUIRERS’ GROUP – ADULT JOURNEY IN FAITH

Are you a non-Catholic who wants to come into full communion with the Catholic Church, or a “resting” Catholic wanting to "return to the practice of the faith" email Dcn Larry: lmurawski@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

Weekly sessions: Starting 7th Oct. Our Lady, Stubbington

ST PHILIP HOWARD CLEANING TEAM

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 18:30:05 GMT

Thursday Mornings (fortnightly).

New volunteers are needed to help care for our church. If you can spare some time on a Thursday morning, please contact the Parish Office for more details.

IMPORTANT! NEW PARISH DATABASE ‘CHURCHSUITE’

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 14:53:06 GMT

To ensure your parish registration is up to date, and you continue to receive the newsletter, and other communications please complete the forms as soon as possible. A separate form needs to be completed for each adult and each child separate forms for adults and children.

Adult Registration Form is available here: https://catholicdioceseofportsmouth.churchsuite.com/forms/nkuysqm4

Child Registration Form is available here: https://catholicdioceseofportsmouth.churchsuite.com/forms/klgbuqxb

ST FRANCIS AT 800 A LEGACY OF PEACE, SIMPLICITY AND SERVICE

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 12:19:31 GMT

This year marks the 800th anniversary of the life and spiritual legacy of St Francis of Assisi. Our Parish hosts the Solent OFS, a Franciscan community centred on prayer, simplicity, fraternity and service. Members from across the south coast meet at Sacred Heart or St Philip Howard every third Saturday for prayer, formation and fellowship.

If you would like to find out more about the Solent OFS, join a meeting or drop a line to: Solentofs@outlook.com .

Sacred Heart music

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 11:56:54 GMT

Cn. John is seeking someone who is competent and committed to assist with playing the tracks for the musical accompaniment. If you are willing to support, please contact the Parish Office for more information.

SACRED HEART 150th ANNIVERSARY - VOLUNTEERS

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 18:33:37 GMT

Thank you to everyone who responded to our survey and offered their time and support to help make this a memorable occasion for our parish. We are very grateful for your generosity and enthusiasm. We will be in touch in September to coordinate the next steps.

PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES - YOUNG HELPERS

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 12:04:45 GMT

www.catholicassociation.co.uk Fri 21st-Fri 28th August

Thank you for sponsoring Callum, Bethany and Faith as Young Helpers on their pilgrimage to Lourdes, where they will assist sick pilgrims. If you have a prayer intention for the Grotto place them in a sealed envelope marked ‘Intention’ and it will be presented at the Torchlight Procession and later burned. If you would like a candle lit, place your cash donation in an open envelope marked ‘Candle’, together with your sealed intention.

HEALTH & SAFETY SITES UPGRADES

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 20:06:51 GMT

Our sincere thanks go to Margaret Marshman (H&S Lead) for the significant time and effort she has invested in ensuring that we are fully compliant. Her dedication and attention to detail are greatly valued.

RETROUVAILLE

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 19:57:03 GMT

Marriage in a rut, or need help …?

Retrouvaille has helped thousands find hope and healing

www.retrouvaille.org.uk/info Tel: 07887 296 983

INITIATION …

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:27:05 GMT

BAPTISM www.catholicchurchfareham.org.uk/baptism Next preparation sessions begin in September. For details and to register online, please visit the parish website.

ENQUIRERS’ GROUP – ADULT JOURNEY IN FAITH Interested in the Catholic Faith? If you would like to join the autumn group starting in October, please email Dcn Larry: lmurawski@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

CLERGY MOVES

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:21:18 GMT

September Farewell & Welcome

Farewell to Fr Matthew being moved from Gosport to Thatcham and succeeded by Fr Nishan from the IoW.

SVP

Fri, 17 Jul 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

CAFOD’S GLOBAL DEBT PETITION

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 18:34:37 GMT

Thank you for your support. 123 parishioners signed the petition and several others took information to sign online. If you would like to know more or missed signing, you can do so online at www.cafod.org.uk and search global debt.

“QUIET” MASS

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:40:44 GMT

“QUIET” MASS Sunday 19th July 2026

3rd Sunday of the Month - 6pm. St Philip Howard Church

Stigma-free service; reduced lighting, no music and periods of silence throughout. stephanie.campbellrc@gmail.com

WITH GRATEFUL THANKS

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 13:17:43 GMT

Over the past 45 years this parish has been our rock as together with the love of God you have supported us through the challenges that life sometimes throws our way and celebrated with us our joys. Sadly though, it is now time for us to move to another parish but we will hold you all in our hearts and pray for you often. God willing our paths will cross often in the future. God bless you all.

Sue & Kevin Field.

ORDINATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD - Jack Ryan

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 10:54:22 GMT

ORDINATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD Sat 18th July, 11am, St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth. PO1 3HG

Dcn Jack Ryan from our Pastoral Area, will be ordained by Bishop Philip in July. Everyone is warmly invited.

Parking suggestions …

Option 1. Portsmouth Park & Ride (my recommendation)

Portsmouth Park & Ride, Tipner Ln, PO2 8AN is usually the easiest and least stressful option.

The Park & Ride buses stop outside St John's Cathedral on Bishop Crispian Way.

Option 2. Nearby City Centre Car Parks

Marketway (next to Cascades) Portsmouth PO1 4AH

Cascades Multi-Storey, Commercial Rd, Portsmouth PO1 4RL

Isambard Brunel Multi-Storey , Alec Rose Ln, Portsmouth PO1 2BX

All are around a 5–10 minute walk from the Cathedral.

Option 2 - Cathedral Car Park

It is chargeable, limited spaces on a first-come, first-served basis and fills quickly.

Make sure you pay or validate your parking before leaving, otherwise you may receive a parking charge notice.

THANK YOU – “Fr” Jack’s gift

Thank you for your generous support of Jack. Your kindness will help him establish himself in his new mission. We will present Fr. Jack with your gift on Sunday 26th July when he comes to celebrate Mass and offer his “first blessings”.

WORLD DAY FOR GRANDPARENTS AND THE ELDERLY

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 09:37:14 GMT

Sun 26th July.

Celebrated on the 4th Sunday of July to coincide with the feast of Ss Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus. Together we can help older people feel loved, valued, and connected. To learn more or offer support, contact: caritas@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk .

ADORE SPIRITUAL MINI-RETREAT

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 09:06:57 GMT

ADoRE SPIRITUAL MINI-RETREAT

25th July 10am - 1.00pm Theme "HIS BANNER OVER US IS LOVE.” On Zoom .

Responding to God's Invitation. Join us for a mini retreat morning with Mass, Adoration, prayer, praise, and a talk by Russ Fairman (National CHARIS Renewal Team). Register in advance at bit.ly/ADOREJUL2026

CAFOD VENEZUELA EARTHQUAKE APPEAL

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 18:37:37 GMT

Your donation will support our trusted partners who are making a difference right now. www.cafod.org.uk

Together, we can help our neighbours and answer Christ’s call to love one another - until all of us have all we need.

FIRST EUCHARIST – Welcome

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 18:18:12 GMT

We look forward to our First Eucharist celebration this Sunday 12th July at the Mass the child’s family worships. A big thank you to Tracy and the Team at St Margaret Mary Parish who have been preparing our children since January.

STELLA MARIS – SEA SUNDAY 11 th/12th July

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:01:38 GMT

Seafarers and fishers play a vital role in our lives, often in dangerous conditions. Please support the retiring collection or use the card readers, or by texting SEA to 70460 to give £5, or online www.stellamaris.org.uk/donate

Confessions

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 09:01:17 GMT

SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION – CONFESSION

Thursdays, after 10am Mass

Saturdays, 5 - 6pm (1st Saturdays; 10 - 11am)

ONLINE RETREAT WITH SCHOOL OF SYNODALITY

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 18:33:58 GMT

Saturday 27th June, 12pm – 4pm on Zoom

A unique retreat day, held online, open to all those who wish to explore knowing themselves ‘beloved by God’. www.tickettailor.com/events/schoolforsynodality/217996

PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 14:59:17 GMT

CATHOLIC ASSOCIATION PILGRIMAGE

Friday 21st - Friday 28th August 2026 Visit: www.catholicassociation.co.uk

Chartered flights with Tangney Tours, a medically enhanced pilgrimage for Assisted Pilgrims.

SPUC – FIGHTBACK DAY ‘26

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 14:56:33 GMT

www.spuc.org.uk/campaign/join-the-fightback/

Parliament has removed legal consequences for selfinduced abortion up to birth. We are deeply concerned by this change, please join the campaign to restore greater protection for unborn children.

JESUS YOUTH TEAM

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 19:02:30 GMT

JESUS YOUTH, ‘4th FRIDAYS ADORATION’

Friday 27th June 6pm - 10pm. Sacred Heart Church

Time out to pray for peace. Come, just “be” with the Lord.

150TH ANNIVERSARY - PROJECT GROUP

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 16:25:25 GMT

Thank you for the wonderful response to the Volunteer Sign-Up Form to let us know how you would like to contribute. We will call a group together soon to look at the next stage and how we can crystallise your ideas.

PARISH GROUPS - HEALTH AND SAFETY

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 15:03:18 GMT

If you are contacted by our Health and Safety Lead, please make every effort to complete any required actions. The Diocese regularly monitors our compliance with policies and training, and we currently have some outstanding requirements to address. Thank you for your cooperation.

SIGNIFICANT WEDDING ANNIVERSARY MASS

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 12:21:57 GMT

SIGNIFICANT WEDDING ANNIVERSARY MASS Sat 20th June 11am. St Bede’s Church, Basingstoke

Are you celebrating a 25th, 30th, 40th, 50th, 60th, or 60+ anniversary? Bishop Philip invites you to a special Mass followed by a buffet lunch. A wonderful way to celebrate and witness to marriage. Contact the parish office for details.

UNION OF CATHOLIC MOTHERS ‘UCM’ MEETING

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:53:01 GMT

Every other Monday, 7pm. Sacred Heart Hall

All are very welcome. Contact: lorne1954@hotmail.com

Conversation Group

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 15:58:43 GMT

CONVERSATION GROUP

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

Next meeting: 11th June

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

CARITAS VOLUNTEER ROLE

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 15:05:45 GMT

The Parish Caritas Representative is a new volunteer role to support the Church to reach out to those in need in the wider community. No experience is needed, just a passion to put faith into action and to make a difference. To find out more please contact Jenny at caritas@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

CHRISTIANS TOGETHER IN FAREHAM - HOLIDAY CLUB

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 11:49:47 GMT

“BRIGHT SPARKS” 21st – 27th July , 9.45am-1.15pm For children in Yr R to Yr 6. Bookings are now open.

PEG ‘PARISH ECOLOGY GROUP’

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 11:38:57 GMT

PARISH ECOLOGY GROUP ‘PEG’

Tuesdays after Mass - Recycling. Sacred Heart Hall - 10.30am - 12pm

Please come & support the recycling operation work that supports different charities. Help needed please!

Contact - Parish Office

Bible study - Feasting on the Word of God

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 10:55:10 GMT

“FEASTING ON THE WORD OF GOD”

Friday 11.15am - 12pm in Sacred Heart Hall

Come and join us to look deeper into Scriptures.

Contact - Parish Office

Little Treasures Toddler Group

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 09:51:18 GMT

LITTLE TREASURES’ TODDLER GROUP

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

Just £1.50 for a “stay & play” session, with a lovely selection of toys and for carers - hot drinks and biscuit.

Contact - Parish Office

Craft group

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 09:44:39 GMT

CRAFT & CHAT GROUP

Tuesdays from 1pm at Sacred Heart Church Hall

Come and join us for a ploughman’s lunch and friendship

Contact - Parish Office

MEALTRAIN INITIATIVE - Do you have time to help?

Fri, 29 May 2026 14:38:25 GMT

To provide practical and compassionate support to individuals and families in times of need. We are seeking volunteer co-ordinators who would be a point of contact for requests for support, organising the schedule and liaising with the volunteers who will cook. If you feel called to help or would simply like to be part of the team, please contact the parish office.

MENS’ GROUP

Fri, 29 May 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

VERBUM DEI RETREAT FOR MARRIED COUPLES

Fri, 29 May 2026 11:46:33 GMT

VERBUM DEI COMMUNITY, ISLE OF WIGHT

Retreat for Engaged & Married Couples. 13th - 15th June.

For more info, please contact: verbumdei.iow@gmail.com or visit http://www.uk.verbumdei.org/

COME HOLY SPIRIT

Fri, 22 May 2026 15:00:54 GMT

PRAYER, COME HOLY SPIRIT ...

Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.

Send forth your Spirit, and they shall be created.

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 may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in His consolation, through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Wisdom, Understanding, Right Judgement, Courage, Reverence, Knowledge and Wonder & Awe.

FRUITS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Love, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, Joy, Self-control.

THE ASCENSION OF OUR LORD - Thursday 14th May

Sat, 02 May 2026 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 Sacred Heart Church.

1.30pm St Philip Howard led by St Jude’s School

7.30pm St Margaret Mary Ch. Park Gate

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

Sat, 02 May 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.

WESTMINSTER ASSISTED SUICIDE BILL HAS FALLEN

Sat, 02 May 2026 14:41:38 GMT

WESTMINSTER ASSISTED SUICIDE BILL HAS FALLEN To find out more about this significant milestone visit: https://righttolife.org.uk/LeadbeaterBillFalls

EXTRAORDINARY MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION

Sat, 02 May 2026 13:33:06 GMT

Sat 9th May 9am Mass ‘til lunch. At St Peter’s Winchester

A talk focussing on the Eucharist “Living a Eucharistic life – what does it mean to live out the eucharist?”. A talk on the Eucharist in the sacred scriptures as well as a session on Lectio Divina. All Eucharistic Ministers, experienced and new, are very welcome to aƩend. If you wish to attend, please register via: liturgy@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk

CONFIDENT PARENTING IN A WORLD OF SCREENS

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 18:38:28 GMT

Webinar 29th April at 8pm.

CELEBRATE Trust is running a Webinar for parents and carers of teenagers.

Hardly a day goes by without headlines highlighting the impact of smartphones and social media on our teenagers.

They face a whole new level of complexity as they grow up in a digital world, but as parents and carers there are so many

things we can do to help them navigate it well.

CELEBRATE Trust has invited a speaker from Care for the Family, a national UK charity, to share how we can best support our teenagers through the challenges of the digital world and offer practical advice and principles to apply in our own unique families.

To book go to www.celebratetrust.org/faith-parenting

PROFAMILY FOUNDATION TALKS

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 13:24:12 GMT

Discovery Centre, St John's Cathedral, Portsmouth PO1 3QA Thursday 14th May at 7pm: Building a strong family

For parents with children of all ages or couples looking to start a family. Parents can bring along babies.

However childcare is not provided. Teas and coffees will be available

‘LIFE IN THE SPIRIT’ SEMINARS

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 13:13:15 GMT

From Thursday 23rd April. 7.30pm. 7 sessions.

Themes covered are: God’s Love, Salvation, New life, Receiving God’s Gift, Baptism in the Holy Spirit, Growth and Transformation.

Sessions are available online however it is encouraged people try to attend the Holy Spirit Day -

Sat 23rd May at St Bede’s Ch, Basingstoke for Pentecost weekend. Please scan QR code for info.

STELLA MARIS - THANK YOU

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 12:45:33 GMT

To all of you who donated Easter eggs for seafarers – they were moved by your thoughƞulness, for remembering them this Easter, and for the support, care and prayer you give.

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).

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.

‘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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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 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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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

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?

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

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

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

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

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 .

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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’

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.

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

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

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.

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!

Death and Bereavement

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 10:12:15 GMT

Visit the Parish Bethany Group for help and support.

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

‘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 are available to buy from the repository now, 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:

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!

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.

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

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

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

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!

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!

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

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

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 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!

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.

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.

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

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.

“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

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.

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

Messy Church

Sat, 22 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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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 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!

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

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.

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.

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

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

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!

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!

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

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.

Diocesan Safeguarding

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 09:54:19 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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?

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!

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.

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

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

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

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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

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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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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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!

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

sacredheartwithstphiliphoward

Cemetery Prayers - Sunday 8th November

All Saints Day - November 1st

The Joy of Hope

��️ The Joy of Hope: 4-Part CaFE Series

CAROL SERVICE 2026

All Souls Day

Pilgrimage

MASS INTENTIONS

PRAYER WALKS

CATHOLIC MOTHERS DISCERNMENT RETREAT DAY

Quiz Night

ADORATION

Lady's Group

Rest In Peace

A MESSAGE FROM BISHOP PHILIP

VISIT OF THE RELICS OF ST GERARD MAJELLA

VISIT OF THE RELICS OF ST GERARD MAJELLA

Development

Subtitle Palm Trees

﻿

ST FRANCIS 800th ANNIVERSARY – OFS GROUP

MARRIAGE MATTERS 24th Sun. Ord Time.

FIRST EUCHARIST – FAITH FORMATION

ALTAR SERVER TEAM

DIOCESAN CATECHIST DAY – PORTSMOUTH DIOCESE

RCIA - ADULT JOURNEY IN FAITH

GOSPORT SECTION OF THE CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE ANNUAL REVIEW

CONFIRMATION PATHWAY - “CHOSEN”

Ladies Prayer Group

(ACN) AID TO THE CHURCH IN NEED – PETITION

ASSISTED SUICIDE BILL

CAR PARKING AT ST PHILIP HOWARD CHURCH

LOCAL PILGRIMAGE TRAIL ALONG THE MEON VALLEY

Portsmouth Vocations

OUR SYNODAL JOURNEY AS A CHURCH

Enquirers Journey in Faith Group

ST PHILIP HOWARD CLEANING TEAM

IMPORTANT! NEW PARISH DATABASE ‘CHURCHSUITE’

ST FRANCIS AT 800 A LEGACY OF PEACE, SIMPLICITY AND SERVICE

Sacred Heart music

SACRED HEART 150th ANNIVERSARY - VOLUNTEERS

PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES - YOUNG HELPERS

HEALTH & SAFETY SITES UPGRADES

RETROUVAILLE

INITIATION …

CLERGY MOVES

SVP

CAFOD’S GLOBAL DEBT PETITION

“QUIET” MASS

WITH GRATEFUL THANKS

ORDINATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD - Jack Ryan

WORLD DAY FOR GRANDPARENTS AND THE ELDERLY

ADORE SPIRITUAL MINI-RETREAT

CAFOD VENEZUELA EARTHQUAKE APPEAL

FIRST EUCHARIST – Welcome

STELLA MARIS – SEA SUNDAY 11 th/12th July

Confessions

ONLINE RETREAT WITH SCHOOL OF SYNODALITY

PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES

SPUC – FIGHTBACK DAY ‘26

JESUS YOUTH TEAM

150TH ANNIVERSARY - PROJECT GROUP

PARISH GROUPS - HEALTH AND SAFETY

SIGNIFICANT WEDDING ANNIVERSARY MASS

UNION OF CATHOLIC MOTHERS ‘UCM’ MEETING

Conversation Group

CARITAS VOLUNTEER ROLE

CHRISTIANS TOGETHER IN FAREHAM - HOLIDAY CLUB

PEG ‘PARISH ECOLOGY GROUP’

Bible study - Feasting on the Word of God

Little Treasures Toddler Group

Craft group

MEALTRAIN INITIATIVE - Do you have time to help?

MENS’ GROUP

VERBUM DEI RETREAT FOR MARRIED COUPLES

COME HOLY SPIRIT

THE ASCENSION OF OUR LORD - Thursday 14th May

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

WESTMINSTER ASSISTED SUICIDE BILL HAS FALLEN