Thought from Fr. Colm - 10th November 2024

The poem below has been written by one of our parishioners – James Gilman – and has been used in services at Durham Cathedral and elsewhere. It has also been accepted by the British Army and the Royal Navy for use in military bases around the world and has been added to the Royal British Legion's list for possible use in future National Remembrance Services. A wonderful achievement.

THE POPPIES PRAYER

The poppies fall.

Their crimson tears

Like shrapnel, piercing every heart

Of those who mourn the dying blood

Enshrouding friend and foe alike

On Flanders Field.

So scour our conscience

With your flood

Till we ensure that never more

Shall nations let Death’s bloody dance

Seduce the souls of friend and foe.

Like Flanders Field

Thought from Fr. Colm - 3rd November 2024

Great news with the Journey in Faith beginning on Thursday, 14th November at 2.30pm. This is a journey we all need to be on, as Faith is such unfolding discovery. We have an excellent, experienced team with different speakers invited on specific aspects of Faith. Now, for this to succeed, we do need you. Accompanying someone is like a school buddy … a reference point. The point being that it encourages all participants in the knowledge that others are seeking.

Another bulletin piece worth giving real thought to is the reflection time for readers. Can I add that those interested reading in church are more than welcome. The session will be relaxed and a sharing of ideas, and indeed, from experienced readers, what that experience is like.

“True sympathy can’t be turned on and off like an electric switch, and when you really share someone else’s fate, it means giving up some of your own freedom.” Stefan Zweig

Thought from Fr. Colm - 27th October 2024

We begin the Journey in Faith shortly. This has always been an important activity in the parish down the years. It has been an excellent route for many hoping to be received into the Church. It has also been an important means for those already in the Faith to develop a wider indepth understanding of the Catholic Faith. Do join us when we begin. Bishop Stephen blessed the foundations of St. Leonard’s as building begins soon. We welcome Brother Lucien to the Capuchin Community in the parish.