Rosary News

High Mass at Aylesford

2011-08-12T15:44:00.001+01:00

Fr Finigan will be celebrating a solemn High Mass (older form) at Aylesford on Thursday at 5pm. He will give a talk at 3.30pm on the legal status of Summorum Pontificum.

This event is is for a group from St Lucia but all are welcome to the talk and to the Mass.

Requiem for Terry Quinn RIP

2011-08-12T15:41:00.002+01:00

A Requiem Mass will be celebrated for Terry Quinn here on Thursday 18 August at 11am, replacing our usual 10am Mass for that day. Light refreshments will be served in the Small Hall afterwards.

Feast of the Assumption

2011-08-12T15:26:00.001+01:00

There will be a sung Latin Mass in the older form at Our Lady of the Rosary this Monday 15 August at 8pm. The Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate will be singing for this occasion.

(The feast of the Assumption is celebrated in the ordinary form on Sunday 14 August this year. 15 August is not a Holyday of Obligation.)

Congratulations to Kelly and Ricky

2011-08-12T15:21:00.001+01:00

Congratulations to Richard Butterworth and Kelly thompson who were married today at Our Lady of the Rosary.

Among the bridesmaids were three of Kelly's friends who were with her in the parish Faith Youth Group in the parish for several years during the time that they were at secondary school:

(L-R) Theresa, Nicky, and Lisa

Parish Music Evening

2011-07-31T22:08:00.000+01:00

Our annual parish Music Evening will be held this year on Tuesday 9 August at 7.30pm.

All children and young people who play a musical instrument are invited, together with their parents, to an informal evening of music and song in the Large Hall at 7.30pm. We will say the Rosary in the Church beforehand at 7pm. Please email Sue Ferguson if you would like to play.

The evening is also open to anyone in the parish who enjoys a sing-song.

Feast of the Transfiguration

2011-07-31T22:04:00.002+01:00

This year, the feast of the Transfiguration falls on the first Saturday of August (6th) and therefore our visiting schola will be here to sing for a solemn Missa Cantata in the Traditional Roman Rite. After Mass and Benediction, the Large Hall will be open for refreshments and we will have solemn sung Vespers at 2.30pm. As usual, there will be a priest available from 11am to hear Confessions during Mass and Benediction.

Congratulations to Luke and Chloe

2011-07-23T15:00:00.001+01:00

Congratulations to Luke I'Anson and Chloe Hutchings who were married today at Our Lady of the Rosary.

SPUC coffee morning

2011-07-09T21:14:00.000+01:00

Well done and thanks to Linda and Nigel for organising this mornings SPUC coffee morning. £261.80p was raised and great encouragement to protect all human life from the tiniest to the weakest and oldest.

New translation of the Mass

2011-07-04T11:39:00.000+01:00

Beginning with the first weekend in September, we will be using a new translation of the prayers at the celebration of Mass in English. If you would like to find out more about this translation, and receive a copy of the new responses for the people, Fr Finigan will be giving a talk on Monday 18 July at 7.30pm in the Small Hall.

There is also further information at the website of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, at the Roman Missal section.

Ordination of Rev Jonathan Routh

2011-07-04T11:37:00.000+01:00

Jonathan Routh, a student for the Archdiocese of Southwark, will be ordained to the Sacred Priesthood at Our Lady, Help of Christians in Folkestone next Saturday. Please remember him in your prayers, together with our other students who are preparing for ordination.

Times for confession

2011-07-04T11:32:00.002+01:00

Currently, Confessions are heard after the 10.30am Mass on Saturday morning and from 5 to 5.30pm on Saturday evening. (I am also happy to hear confessions after the weekday morning Masses or any other reasonable time on request.)

I am considering changing the times for confessions. Few people come at 5pm on Saturday and I would like to suggest cancelling this time and having confessions on Thursday evening after Benediction instead (similar to the arrangement in Lent when confessions are available after Friday Stations.)

This change would also make it slightly easier for me to attend apostolic events arranged by lay people on Saturdays by obviating the need to enlist a supply priest for confessions in the afternoon.

The Saturday morning time for confessions would remain as it is.
If you have any views on this proposed change, please let me know either personally or in writing. The email address is blackfencatholic@gmail.com

St Peter and St Paul: Holyday this Wednesday

2011-06-25T16:49:00.000+01:00

The Feast of St Peter and St Paul is this Wednesday 29 June. On this day, we are bound to go to Mass. Masses in the parish are at 9.30am, 4.15pm and 8pm (Sung Latin.) The 4.15pm Mass is specially arranged for parents and children (though children are welcome at all Masses in the parish.)

We pray especially for Pope Benedict XVI, that the prayers of St Peter will assist him to lead and govern the Church according to the mind of Christ.

There will be a collection for Peter’s Pence at all Masses on Wednesday.

Men’s Evening of Recollection

2011-06-25T16:47:00.002+01:00

This Friday 1 July 7.30pm there will be an Evening of Recollection for the men of the parish. There will be a spiritual talk, adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Rosary, Confessions and Benediction; followed by gathering in the Parish Social Club. All men of the parish are welcome.

Family Pilgrimage Day

2011-06-25T16:46:00.000+01:00

On Saturday 16 July, there will be a Parish outing to join the Family Pilgrimage Day at Aylesford. A coach will leave the Church at 10am. The cost for the coach will be £2.50 per person or £5 per family. There are information leaflets available at the back of the Church.

There are many activities for children but everyone in the parish welcome to come. Please put your name down if you want a place on the coach.

Missa Cantata This Saturday

2011-06-25T16:45:00.002+01:00

This Saturday 2 July, our visiting schola will be here on Saturday for our solemn Missa Cantata in the Traditional Roman Rite at 10.30am The texts of the Mass will be sung in Gregorian chant according to the Roman Gradual.

Mass will be followed by a short service of Benediction and the Marian anthem. There will be a priest available from 11am to hear Confessions during Mass and Benediction.

Pro-Life Coffee Morning

2011-06-25T16:44:00.002+01:00

The SPUC group will hold a coffee morning after 10.30am Mass on Saturday 9 July. We will have our usual adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and confessions so you can combine a social morning with a visit to the Blessed Sacrament and contribute to the protection of human life all in one morning!

At the coffee morning, there will be a raffle. Tickets will be sold after Masses next week and gifts for the raffle would be welcome. Volunteers are also invited both to sell raffle tickets and to help at the coffee morning. Please contact Linda (details are on the poster on the notice board.)

Fr Tony Pyle RIP - thank you

2011-05-29T21:30:00.001+01:00

Fr Tony with Pat Watkins in the summer of 2001

Many thanks to all those who helped at the celebration of the Funeral Mass for Fr Tony, especially the Union of Catholic Mothers, the Choir, the sacristy team and the altar servers. Please continue to remember Fr Tony in your prayers.

(Every Saturday, we pray for all the deceased priests of the parish at Benediction after morning Mass and adoration.)

Funeral of Fr Tony Pyle

2011-05-21T18:12:00.000+01:00

The Funeral Mass for Fr Tony Pyle, former parish priest of Blackfen, will take place at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Blacken on Friday 27 May at 12noon.

The Mass will be celebrated by Archbishop Peter Smith.

Fr Tony, who was parish Priest at Blackfen from 1983-1997, died on Maundy Thursday, fortified by all the rites of Holy Mother Church. Please remember him in your prayers.

Father Tony is remembered with great affection by many parishioners who knew him during his time here, and so I am very pleased that the Archdiocese has agreed that the most fitting place for his Funeral Mass would be at his old parish of Our Lady of the Rosary.

There will be many clergy attending, the school will be represented, and the Church will be crowded. Please could I ask the various parish groups to be prepared to help on the day.

Rosary and Benediction on Thursday 26 May at 8pm will include special prayers for Fr Tony so that it can be a vigil of prayer for the funeral.

Friday Abstinence

2011-05-21T18:11:00.001+01:00

The Bishops have decided to reinstate the traditional practice whereby Catholics abstain from meat on Fridays as a penance, and as a witness to our shared Catholic identity. The law comes into effect on 16 September but you may wish to begin before then.

Feast of the Ascension

2011-05-21T18:09:00.004+01:00

The bishops have transferred the feast of the Ascension to Sunday 5 June.

However, there will also be a sung Latin Mass (older form) for the traditional feast of the Ascension this Thursday 2 June at 8pm for those who wish to come. (It is not a holyday of obligation.)

The Church Choir is recruiting

2011-05-21T18:06:00.004+01:00

The Church Choir is looking for new members. We have a short practice after the 10.30am Sunday Mass with a cup of tea and at present are practising Mass I, and learning something about the Gregorian notation, before we move on to some more part-singing and the sequence for Pentecost. We also go out for meals from time to time. Please speak to Julia Jones if you are interested, or email: blackfencatholic@gmail.com

Don't forget to keep an eye on our Church Choir blog.

Crowning of Our Lady

2011-05-07T18:03:00.000+01:00

Next Sunday, 15 May, after the 9am Mass, we will sing “Bring Flowers of the Rarest”, and children are invited to bring flowers for an outdoor procession ending with the crowning of our statue of Our Lady.

Vocations Sunday next week

2011-05-07T18:00:00.000+01:00

Next Sunday is the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. The Church always needs vocations to the priesthood and the religious life.

A priestly or religious vocation is a gift from God to be cherished. Please encourage our fine young people to be open to the possibility that Jesus Christ may call them as he called the apostles “Follow me!”

For information on vocations to the priesthood in Southwark, see the dedicated Southwark Vocations website.

Blessed Pope John Paul II pray for us

2011-05-01T11:00:00.000+01:00

At a ceremony which began at 10am this morning Italian time (9am GMT) the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI declared that Pope John Paul was henceforth to be called "Blessed" and that his feast day would celebrated each year in certain places on 22 October.

At the Vatican website page dedicated to the beatification, you can download a copy of the Booklet for the celebration and view a slideshow Tribute to Pope John Paul II, as well as follow other useful links. The Holy See Press Office also has a brief Biography of the new Blessed.

Here is the new Collect that will be used in the Sacred Liturgy for the feast of Blessed Pope John Paul II, and at votive offices and Masses:

O God, who are rich in mercy and who willed that the blessed John Paul the Second should preside as Pope over your universal Church, grant, we pray, that instructed by his teaching, we may open our hearts to the saving grace of Christ, the sole Redeemer of mankind. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen.

This prayer may also be used privately to ask for the intercession of Blessed Pope John Paul II.

Divine Mercy indulgence

2011-04-30T17:13:00.000+01:00

Pope John Paul named this Sunday, as “Divine Mercy Sunday.” A plenary indulgence may be gained on the usual conditions for all those who say the Our Father and the Creed in a Church, adding a devout prayer to the merciful Lord Jesus (e.g. “Merciful Jesus, I trust in you!”)

To gain a plenary indulgence, it is necessary to receive Holy Communion and to make a sacramental confession. These may be done within two weeks before or after the indulgenced prayers. In addition, we must pray for the intentions of the Holy Father (e.g. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be.) and be free from attachment to sin by conceiving a detestation of sin and a firm resolution not to sin in the future.

You may also wish to say the Divine Mercy Chaplet which was promoted by St Faustina. There is further information about the devotion at the Divine Mercy website.

First Communion Masses

2011-04-30T17:05:00.000+01:00

Our first Holy Communion Masses at Blackfen will be on Saturdays 7, 14, and 21 May.

The Mass on 7 May will be a Latin Missa Cantata and will begin at 10.30am.

The Masses on 14 and 21 May will begin at 12.30pm. All are welcome to the Masses. Please be seated in the Church a quarter of an hour before Mass begins. The Rosary will be said from 1210 in preparation for Mass, so please join us for that if you can.

Many thanks indeed to our team of catechists who have worked so hard to prepare the children for this very special occasion. Please remember the children and their families in your prayers.

UCM Day at Aylesford

2011-04-30T17:03:00.001+01:00

The Blackfen Branch of the Union of Catholic Mothers will be joining the annual UCM Day at Aylesford, on Tuesday 31 May. A coach will leave from the Church at 9.30am, returning at approximately 4.15pm. If you would like a place on the coach, please give your name and £12 fare to Hilda as soon as possible.

Pope John Paul II film

2011-04-23T18:03:00.001+01:00

On 30 April, the eve of the beatification of Pope John Paul II, we will be showing a film of his life in the Small Hall at 7pm. This would be a good preparation for your spiritual participation in the Church’s joy at solemn recognition of this great Pope’ holiness.

There will be a refreshment break in the middle, including an opportunity to buy popcorn. The showing will finish at about 10.20pm. Children are welcome.

A collection will be taken for the educational work of the Maryvale Institute.

Eddie Reid RIP

2011-04-23T18:02:00.000+01:00

Of your charity, please pray for the repose of the soul of Eddie Reid who died recently. Eddie was received into the Catholic Church a few days before he died, and therefore went to Our Lord fortified by the sacraments of the Church.

The Requiem Mass will be at 10.30am on Wednesday 4 May, followed by committal at Eltham Crematorium. (This will be our parish Mass for the day and there will be no 10am Mass.)

Many thanks to all our volunteers

2011-04-23T18:00:00.000+01:00

Many thanks to all those who helped to prepare our Easter ceremonies and especially to those who prepared the Church, the music, and the ceremonies. All have worked very hard during this week to make our liturgy a prayerful and beautiful celebration of the mysteries of our faith.

(Do not forget our Church Choir blog.)

Father Tony Pyle RIP

2011-04-22T14:28:00.002+01:00

Father Tony Pyle, Parish Priest of Our Lady of the Rosary, Blackfen from 1983 to 1997, died on the evening of Maundy Thursday (21 April 2011) fortified by all the rites of our Holy Mother the Church. His funeral Mass will be celebrated at Blackfen. The date will be announced as soon as the Archdiocese has been able to make the arrangements.

Please remember Father Tony in your prayers.
Requiescat in pace.

Passiontide: veiling of the statues

2011-04-09T10:11:00.001+01:00

By ancient custom, the crucifixes and statues in the Church are veiled during Passiontide, the last two weeks of Lent.

As with many of our ancient liturgical customs, this has various meanings. Before his Passion, Jesus hid himself and no longer went openly among the Jews. At his passion, the divinity of Jesus was hidden by his humiliation and sufferings for our sake. The statues of Our Lady and the saints are covered because it is not fitting for the servants to be honoured when their Master is hidden.

The veiling of the statues gives a striking austerity to the Church, reminding us of the solemn and mournful time of the suffering and death of the Lord as we approach the liturgical celebration of his Passion.

We adore Thee, O Christ and we praise Thee.
Because by Thy Holy Cross Thou hast redeemed the world.

Holy Week and Easter services

2011-04-09T10:07:00.000+01:00

You can download a sheet giving times of services for Holy Week and Easter. (Copies are also available at the back of the Church.)

From Mon 18 to Wed 20 April, there will be two Masses each day, one in English, and the other in Latin. Confessions will be heard after all these Masses.

On Maundy Thursday our Mass is the 8pm evening Mass (Latin) of the Lord’s Supper. (There is no 10am Mass.)

Good Friday is a day of fasting and abstinence on which we are bound to abstain from meat and to deny ourselves some food. All are encouraged to come to the Stations of the Cross in the morning and/or the Liturgy of the Passion in the afternoon with the veneration of the Cross.

On Holy Saturday evening, the Easter Vigil begins at 8.30pm. There is no 6pm Mass on Holy Saturday. Masses on Easter Sunday are as usual.

The 10.30am Latin Mass on Palm Sunday will be celebrated as a High Mass with the solemn procession and sung Passion. Although the Mass will be significantly longer than usual, it is a very good way to begin Holy Week by participating in the Roman Liturgy celebrated with the greatest solemnity. Dr Hemming and Fr McNally will be assisting as Sacred Ministers.

Gregorian Chant Course

2011-04-09T09:59:00.000+01:00

On Saturday 7 May, Dom Yves-Marie Lelievre OSB, Choirmaster of Solesmes, and one of the world’s finest exponents of Gregorian Chant, will be giving a workshop at Spanish Place for ordinary parish singers who are learning chant. There are further details at the Church Choir blog.

A small group from the parish will be travelling up from Sidcup Station at 8.30am. We need to notify numbers of those coming; if you are interested, please contact Julia Jones after 10.30am Mass on Sunday or by email: julia.jones2@btinternet.com

Mass for Special Anniversaries

2011-04-09T09:58:00.000+01:00

The Archbishop is celebrating Mass in the afternoon of Saturday 18 June at St George’s Cathedral, to celebrate the Sacrament of Marriage. Those celebrating significant wedding anniversaries. (1st, 10th, 25th, 40th, or 60th+) are especially invited.

To receive a special invitation, please fill in one of the forms available at the back of the Church and send it to the address given. (Closing date 15 May)

First Communion Parents evening this Thursday

2011-04-02T16:30:00.002+01:00

Parents of children making their first Holy Communion are asked to come to the Church this Thursday 7 April at 8pm.

There will be Rosary and Benediction, followed by a short talk from Fr Finigan about the final stage of preparation for the children to receive Our Lord sacramentally in Holy Communion for the first time.

Laetare Sunday

2011-04-02T16:26:00.000+01:00

Today is known as Laetare Sunday after the Introit for the Mass which reads as follows (in both older and newer forms:

Laetare Jerusalem: et conventum facite omnes qui diligitis eam: gaudete cum laetitia, qui in tristitia fuistis: ut exsultetis, et satiemini ab uberibus consolationis vestrae. (Psalm) Laetatus sum in his, quae dicta sunt mihi: in domum Domini ibimus. Gloria Patri.

Rejoice, O Jerusalem: and come together all you that love her: rejoice with joy, you that have been in sorrow: that you may exult, and be filled from the breasts of your consolation. (Psalm) I rejoiced at the things that were said to me: we shall go into the house of the Lord. Glory be to the Father

Halfway through Lent there is a note of rejoicing, and the use of rose coloured vestments. Many thanks to Maria and the Sacristy Team for making the lovely new altar frontal for this Sunday.

Receiving Holy Communion: a reminder of Catholic practice

2011-04-02T16:23:00.000+01:00

We should be in a state of grace to receive Holy Communion. Anyone who is conscious of grave (mortal) sin may not receive Holy Communion without first having been to confession. We must abstain from food and drink (with the exception of water) for at least one hour before receiving Holy Communion.

Those who are married outside the Church or are living together as a couple without being married, may not receive Holy Communion. They should make a spiritual communion at Mass and seek any way that there may be to rectify the situation.

A person who has received Holy Communion may receive it again on the same day, provided that, on the second occasion, they have attended Mass.

Catholics are not permitted to receive Holy Communion at a non-Catholic service (even if invited) but may take part in any prayers that are not contrary to Catholic faith.

We should prepare prayerfully for Holy Communion and spend some time in thanksgiving afterwards. Holy Communion should always be received with reverence and care.

Missa Cantata this Saturday

2011-03-31T11:34:00.000+01:00

Our visiting schola will be here on Saturday 2 April for our solemn Missa Cantata in the Traditional Roman Rite The texts of the Mass will be sung in Gregorian chant according to the Roman Gradual.

Since the Mass will take longer than the usual Low Mass, it will be followed by a short service of Benediction and the Marian anthem. There will be a priest available from 11am to hear Confessions during Mass and Benediction.

Parish Family Fast Day this Friday

2011-03-31T11:32:00.000+01:00

I would like to propose Friday 1 April as a Lenten “Family Fast Day” when, as a parish, we try to go without some of the food we would normally eat. There are envelopes for you to use to make a donation, perhaps proportionate to the cost of the food you forego.

The proceeds of the Family Fast Day will be sent direct to Aid to the Church in Need.

Sunday Mass: a reminder of Catholic practice

2011-03-31T11:30:00.001+01:00

Catholic are bound to attend Mass in a Catholic Church every Sunday and Holyday of obligation. (Saturday evening Mass fulfils the obligation for Sunday.) This is a serious duty, reaffirmed in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. (2181)

This obligation is not binding if there is a genuine reason that prevents someone from attending Mass (for example, illness, the care of infants or more than an hour’s journey to attend Mass). In such a case, there is no sin, and Holy Communion may be received at the next Mass with a good conscience.

The Catechism reminds us that those who deliberately fail in this obligation (without a good reason such as those given above) commit a grave sin.

A person who has missed Mass without good reason, especially if this have been for several weeks or more, should make a good confession before receiving Holy Communion.

Ash Wednesday

2011-03-05T09:47:00.000Z

Ash Wednesday is a day of fasting and abstinence. We are bound to abstain from meat and to eat significantly less food than we normally would.

Masses in the parish on Ash Wednesday are at:

10am
4.15pm
8pm (Sung Latin EF)

Ashes will be blessed and distributed at all Masses.

During Lent, we have Stations of the Cross every Friday at 7.30pm.

Requiem Mass for Fr Koch

2011-03-05T09:44:00.000Z

There will be a sung Latin Requiem Mass (EF) on Monday 7 March at 8pm, with absolutions at the catafalque to pray for the repose of the soul of Fr Koch, the founding parish priest of our parish, on the occasion of his anniversary.

A Day With Mary

2011-03-05T09:43:00.000Z

The Day with Mary will be coming to Blackfen on Saturday 12 March to provide a day of devotion and prayer in the parish. I do recommend this Day and ask as many parishioners as possible to come along to support it. The Day starts at 10am and finishes at about 5pm. You can come for any part of the Day.

KSC Recruitment Drive

2011-03-05T09:39:00.000Z

The Knights of St Columba will be holding a Recruitment Drive in the parish this weekend, 5/6 March. Knights will be present at all Masses and available to meet people afterwards to explain the work of the Knights of St Columba. I encourage men of the parish to join this apostolate.

Confirmation rehearsal and Mass

2011-03-05T09:36:00.000Z

The Confirmation rehearsal will take place this coming Friday at 8.15pm, after the Stations of the Cross at 7.30pm. Candidates and sponsors are asked to come: if the sponsor cannot come, another adult should attend in their place.

The Confirmation Mass will be on Tuesday 15 March at 7.30pm. Candidates are asked to report to the Small Hall at 7pm. Others who are attending the Mass should be seated in the Church by 7.15pm.

Repairs to the roof

2011-02-09T23:05:00.001Z

I suppose it is a traditional thing for a parish priest to have to get the roof mended. We have had scaffolding up for a week or so to provide access for Keith and Steve to repair the ridge tiles. The pointing had eroded in places and some of the tiles had cracked. Here is Keith with one that had gone completely:

The work is nearly finished and we are all hoping that this will solve the problem of a couple of stubborn leaks that show themselves every time we have heavy rain. Many thanks to all of you who are generous in the Offertory Collection so that we can get this work done.

This morning, the scaffolder was beginning to take down some of the poles and boards, so I thought I should get up there before I lost the chance. There was a good view from the top:

It was also an opportunity to get a potential profile picture - the scaffolder kindly obliged.

He also got this view with the Shooters Hill water tower on the horizon. From my end of the scaffolding it was hidden by a tree:

Healthcare Conference

2011-02-04T19:32:00.007Z

Our Lady of the Rosary is hosting a spiritual and learning conference built upon faith and clinical excellence for healthcare workers, arranged by the Catholic Medical Association (Kent Branch.)

The Conference will take place on Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 March 2011. for medical professions, this will gain 6 hours of CPD: Certificates of attendance will be available.

For full details of the Conference, download the brochure or email the Conference Organiser Wendy Kane.

August newsletter deadline

2010-07-12T14:43:00.001+01:00

The Newsletter for 1 August will be a special edition for the whole of August. Any notices for the Newsletter should be emailed or posted through the presbytery letterbox (marked “Newsletter”) by Thursday 29 July at the latest.

Don't forget to include any notices for events in September.

Cyclists well along the path to Rome

2010-07-11T20:30:00.000+01:00

Friday's update on the Via Romea blog has the young cyclists from Blackfen reaching Chalons en Champagne on Friday afternoon, and intending to make some more ground in the evening. I heard from their Dad today that they had reached Chaumont. This is not bad going at all.

The family had visual updates, tear-off slips for the web address to donate, and cakes for the children after Mass this morning. (The cakes are a good idea - makes people stop around and look at the display.)

If you haven't already donated (Mary's Meals & Cardinal Winning Pro-Life Initiative), call on over to the Fundraising page.

Updates at the Via Romea blog, and you can write on the wall at the Facebook Group.

Papal Visit suggestions 4 - Catholic teaching on the papacy

2010-07-10T18:00:00.004+01:00

The second Vatican Council summarised the Church's teaching on the papacy in the Constitution on the Church "Lumen Gentium", especially n.22-25

Carefully reading this section, or the Catechism of the Catholic Church 871-896 can increase our own knowledge and help us to respond to misunderstanding of the faith.

Evening of Recollection

2010-07-10T17:00:00.002+01:00

On Friday 23 July, starting at 7.30pm, there will be an evening of recollection for young people with a spiritual talk, adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, confessions, Benediction and a gathering in the Small Hall afterwards with pizza.

The evening is open to young people of secondary school age, sixth formers and young adults.

Papal Visit suggestions 3 - Novena to the Sacred Heart

2010-07-04T09:11:00.001+01:00

The official resources booklet for the visit of Pope Benedict reminds us that John Henry Cardinal Newman, who is to be beatified during the visit, had great devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. One way to prepare for the visit would be to make a novena (nine days of prayer) in preparation, praying for yourself, for others, and especially for Pope Benedict.

At the back of the Church, there are copies of a Novena Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. For other resources see the website for The Papal Visit.

Lesnes Abbey Blessed Sacrament Procession

2010-06-27T17:45:00.002+01:00

The annual Blessed Sacrament Procession for Bexley and Greenwich Deanery took place this afternoon in glorious sunshine. There was a large group of children who had recently made their first Holy Communion; they had another opportunity, as Fr Scanlon, the Dean of Bexley put it, to "dress up for Jesus." The recently confirmed were also gathered together today, to reflect on this year's theme of "Discipleship". The choir and the readers led us in suitable hymns and gospel passages related to the theme and to the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. As is our custom, a collection was taken up for the Greenwich and Bexley Cottage Hospice.

The numbers were down this year: when we fixed the date of the procession, we did not know that it would coincide with England playing Germany in the World Cup. Nevertheless, those who came enjoyed a beautiful occasion of the praise and worship of Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. Here is the text of the sermon I preached for today:

Disciples of Christ
May I give a special welcome to all the children who have recently made their first Holy Communion and to all the young people who have recently been confirmed. Today, we gather together in this beautiful place with God’s creation smiling on us and his sunshine making everything bright.

We could imagine that we are like those five thousand people who were sat around to listen to him and to marvel as he fed them all with the five loaves and the two fish that the little boy brought for his packed lunch. We can think of the times that the disciples sat and listened to his wonderful teaching which he gave them with great authority because He was the living God, present among them as a man.

We are also gathered around Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. He is truly present in the Eucharist, our Holy Communion, as you learnt when you prepared for your first Holy Communion.

But that is difficult to understand, isn’t it? As you know, in September, we will have a very special visitor to our country. Pope Benedict is going to come and see us. We will see pictures of him on the television. Some of us will go to wave to him as he goes by in his special car which people call the “Popemobile”. Some lucky people will be able to go to the special events where he celebrates Mass or says prayers with people and speaks to them about our Catholic faith.

One time in Rome, Pope Benedict met with some children who had just made their first Holy Communion. They were invited to ask the Pope questions. One of them, called Andrea, said to the Pope:

In preparing me for my First Communion day, my catechist told me that Jesus is present in the Eucharist. But how? I can’t see Him!

The Pope kindly explained to Andrea that there are many things that we do not see but we know they are there – like our minds which we use to think, our souls which we use to love others. We can’t see thoughts or love. We can’t see electricity but we know it is there because the light is on.

So with Jesus – we do not see Him with our eyes but we see that wherever Jesus is, people change, they improve. Often the most important things are what we do not see.

Then another child, called Adriano asked the Pope:

Holy Father, they’ve told us that today we will have Eucharistic Adoration. What is it? How is it done? Can you explain it to us? Thank you.

The Pope said that we can see something of what adoration is because everything has been prepared, as it has been today. We say prayers, we sing, kneel down and place ourselves in the presence of Jesus.

Then he explained what adoration is – he said that it is to recognise that

“Jesus is my Lord, that Jesus shows me the way to take, and that I will live well only if I know the road that Jesus points out and follow the path He shows me. Therefore, adoration means saying: “Jesus, I am yours. I will follow you in my life, I never want to lose this friendship, this communion with you”. I could also say that adoration is essentially an embrace with Jesus in which I say to Him: “I am yours, and I ask you, please stay with me always”.

So today, yes, we are just like those disciples of Jesus – Peter, James, John and the other apostles; Mary, Salome, Mary Magdalen, Joanna, Susanna and many others. They felt the power of the personality of Jesus which attracted them to listen to him, to love him, to follow him and to remain true to him all their lives.

Those of you who have been recently confirmed have taken that further step forward in faith as disciples of Jesus. Strengthened by the Holy Spirit you are given power to stand up for your faith, to stand up for Our Lord as a loyal friend.

Dear children and young people. We all learn from you. Your faith reminds us adults of how we need to grow in faith – but also how we need to be simple, heartfelt, devoted and humble in our faith. Adoring him in the Blessed Sacrament and receiving his blessing, we ask him with confidence to draw us closer to him as his disciples – as his friends.

Congratulations to Edmond and Emma

2010-06-26T16:11:00.002+01:00

Congratulations to Edmond Lane and Emma Culling who were married today at Our Lady of the Rosary.

Papal Visit suggestions 2 - Read "Milestones"

2010-06-26T16:00:00.004+01:00

Read the book "Milestones: Memoirs 1927-1977" by Cardinal Ratzinger. This short and readable book gives an insight especially into the formative years of Josef Ratzinger and particularly the difficulties he and his family experienced during the years of the Nazi regime in Germany, as well as his work as a university lecturer until his appointment as Archbishop of Munich and Freising in 1977.

"Milestones" is 156 pages and available from at our parish Amazon bookshop for £9.95.

Young parishioners cycling to Rome

2010-06-25T17:31:00.000+01:00

Three young parishioners, Anna-Marie, Joseph and Gregory Treloar, are planning to cycle from Sidcup to Rome this summer by way of holiday and pilgrimage. The distance is approximately 1200 miles. As you can see from the above map, they have planned the route meticulously.

The intrepid three have raised the money for the cost of the trip and want to use the opportunity to raise additional money for two excellent charities: the Cardinal Winning Pro-Life Initiative which is run by the Sisters of the Gospel of Life and Mary's Meals. They have set up a Facebook group for the event: Anna-Marie, Gregory and Joseph Treloar cycle to Rome. They also have a blog to give news about the trip: Via Romea.

The description is as follows:

This summer, we're cycling from our home in Sidcup to Rome, a total distance of 1200 miles, passing through France, Switzerland, and Italy before we finally arrive in Rome.

The trip is a holiday and a pilgrimage, but we'd like to take the opportunity to raise money for two fantastic charities. We're funding the trip ourselves, so all monies raised will go directly to the charities, in equal proportion.

Mary’s Meals provides a staple, daily meal in schools for children in some of the poorest countries in the world, thus fighting poverty through tackling malnutrition and encouraging education. The Cardinal Winning Pro-Life Initiative provides non-judgemental practical, spiritual and emotional support for mothers in the UK, struggling with crisis pregnancy and the prospect of bringing up a child alone.

So please give generously- £1, £5, £10... Whatever you give will make a difference; Mary's Meals can feed a child for a year from just £6.15.

Thank you very much! We're very grateful for your support, it will get us up those mountains! We will keep all our sponsors in our prayers en route.

Here is the Fundraising page where you can make a donation. You wouldn't really want not to.

Papal Visit suggestions

2010-06-19T16:36:00.001+01:00

Over the next 13 weeks, I will offer simple, short suggestions to prepare for the visit of Pope Benedict.

The first is the most obvious and the most important. Pray every day for the intentions of our Holy Father. (You can combine this with some prayer or good work to gain a partial indulgence.)

An encounter with reptiles

2010-06-05T23:22:00.002+01:00

Recently our youth group Cross Section had a visit from a favourite presenter whom I tend to refer to as "Reptile Man". He speaks about the care of reptiles and his talk is educative in terms of zoology. It is also an opportunity to cross the threshold of "ugh" as our picture shows.

Lesnes Abbey Procession

2010-06-05T23:19:00.002+01:00

Our annual outdoor procession of the Blessed Sacrament will be held on Sunday 27 June, starting at 3.15pm. This is a beautiful occasion to pray to our Lord and to witness to our faith in him. First Communion children are invited to come in their special clothes

At the Abbey, please find the parish sign and assemble there. First communicants may go in the special group or stay with the parish.

School Fete

2010-06-05T23:18:00.001+01:00

Our Lady Of The Rosary School will be holding their Summer Fete on Saturday 19 June from 1pm to 5pm. This year, the fete will have a World Cup theme. It is always a great afternoon for all the family and raises valuable funds for the school. I encourage parishioners to support the fete.

Youth Evening of Recollection

2010-04-05T15:29:00.000+01:00

Friday 7.30-10pm

Young people of secondary school age, sixth formers (and indeed any university students on holiday) are invited to an Evening of Recollection. This will begin with a talk, Rosary and Benediction, followed by a showing of the film “Arise Once More” and a question & answer session with Fr Finigan. Pizza and soft drinks will be provided.

Join the Facebook Group.

Confessions in Holy Week

2010-03-28T17:26:00.000+01:00

Fr Finigan will be available to hear confessions this week as follows:

After all Masses Monday to Wednesday
After Maundy Thursday 8pm Mass
After 11am Stations on Good Friday
After 3pm Liturgy on Good Friday
11am-12noon and 5-5.30pm on Holy Saturday

Holy Week Services

2010-03-27T17:23:00.000Z

During Holy Week we focus more particularly on the Passion and death of Our Lord, before celebrating his glorious resurrection.

The veiling of the statues gives a striking austerity to the Church, reminding us of the solemn and mournful time of the suffering and death of the Lord as we approach the liturgical celebration of his Passion.

At the website, you can look up times of all our Holy Week Services and Confessions.

Pope's Letter to Irish Catholics

2010-03-20T15:56:00.003Z

There will be much comment in the media this weekend concerning the Pastoral Letter of the Holy Father Pope Benedict to the Catholics of Ireland. The Holy Father apologises to victims of abuse who have suffered the “grave betrayal” of these “egregious crimes”. Pope Benedict also refers to “grave errors of judgement and failure of leadership” on the part of some Bishops. May I encourage you to read the letter itself: the text is available on the Vatican website at the link above.

There is also a shorter official summary of the letter.

Please remember in your prayers all those who have been victims of abuse. The Holy Father encourages the Irish Catholics to offer up their Friday penances for the coming year to Easter 2011 to beg for God’s mercy, healing and for the renewal of the Church.

It would be fitting for us in England to join in solidarity with this spiritual proposal and to respond to his request to give particular attention to regular Eucharistic Adoration and the Sacrament of Penance.

Feast of St Patrick

2010-03-12T19:15:00.001Z

There will be an extra Mass this Wednesday 17 March, the feast of St Patrick, at 7.30pm. The Mass will be in English with hymns. The Rosary Social club will be open after the Mass.

Lenten Lunch next Saturday

2010-03-12T19:13:00.002Z

The Union of Catholic Mothers are organising a Lenten Lunch of soup and sandwiches for you and your families to enjoy. The Lunch will be from 12.30 to 2.30pm on Saturday 20 March. Tickets are on sale after all Masses this weekend: £3 for adults, £1.50 for children.

Confirmation Mass

2010-03-12T19:12:00.001Z

Bishop Lynch will be coming to minister the sacrament of Confirmation during Mass on Thursday 25 March. All are welcome to come to the Mass. Candidates are asked to be in the Small Hall at 7pm. Others coming to the Mass are asked to be in their places by 7.15pm. The Mass will begin at 7.30pm.

There will be a reception for all in the Large Hall after the Mass.

Confirmation Rehearsal this Friday

2010-03-12T19:11:00.001Z

The rehearsal for Confirmation candidates and their sponsors will be this Friday 19 March after the Stations of the Cross. Candidates and sponsors are encouraged to come for the Stations at 7.30pm and stay on afterwards. The rehearsal itself will begin shortly after 8pm.

If the sponsor is unable to come to the rehearsal, the candidate will need another adult to stand in for the sponsor during the rehearsal.

7 reasons why you should go to confession during Lent

2010-02-23T20:55:00.000Z

Here is some good advice from the Canterbury Tales blog, giving seven good reasons to go to confession during Lent. confessions are heard in the parish after morning Mass on Saturday, from 5-5.30pm on Saturday, after all services in Holy Week, and at other times on request.

1. Priestly absolution is an awesome gift that Jesus gave us.
Jesus gave us this Sacrament and wants us to enjoy His grace through it. He told His first priests, the Apostles:
Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, their sins are forgiven (John 20:22).
Christ gave us this sacrament of grace and forgiveness because He loves us. It is a divine gift of mercy and love - not merely an obligation.

2. You are a sinner.
We are a sinners and we need to examine the sinful patterns of our hearts and have a priest give us absolution, counsel, and penance.
"If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us" (1 Jn 1:8).
We are often not honest with our hearts and it takes an objective "physician of souls," to help diagnose us spiritually.

3. Confession is a means of grace.
Confession shouldn't be terrifying. It is peaceful. We get excited over baptisms, weddings, and ordinations. Why not the remedy for our greatest Christian struggle? Why not be excited about Christ's forgiveness being declared by His appointed deputies - the priests of His Church.

4. You may have committed mortal sin.
There is a such thing as mortal sin:
If any one sees his brother committing what is not a mortal sin, he will ask, and God will give him life for those whose sin is not mortal. There is sin which is mortal. (1 Jn 5:16)
Mortal sin is deadly and it separates our souls from the pure eternal life that exists within the Blessed Trinity. Contrition and priestly absolution restores our hearts to a position of love toward God and our neighbors. It ratifies our repentance.

5. Guilt is unpleasant.
Often Satan weighs us down with guilt. Guilt can be a good thing if we transform it into repentance. Of course, Satan hates this and God and the angels love it. So free yourself from guilt and hear a tangible person with spiritual authority say, "I absolve thee in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

6. Confession unites you more fully to the Church.
When you make your confession to a priest, you acknowledge that you have sinned not only against God, but against every single other Christian because by your sin, you have weakened the universal witness of every single Christian. You have given the non-believer the excuse that "All Christians are hypocrites." When you go to Confession you acknowledge that you have caused every Christian to suffer by your sins.
"If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together" (1 Cor 12:26).
The priest, who represents both God and the Church by his ordination and office receives your repentance and you have the assurance of not only God's forgiveness, but also the implicit forgiveness of the entire Church.

7. Receiving the Eucharist becomes even more powerful.When you receive the Holy Eucharist you receive the true Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Christ our Redeemer. When you confess your sins in a sacramental way, you also have a stronger sacramental union with Christ in the Eucharist. Also, if you are living in mortal sin, you should NEVER receive the Eucharist because you blaspheme Christ and set yourself up for greater judgment and eternal damnation! Consequently, confession heals and deepens your devotion to Christ in the Most Blessed Sacrament.

Church Choir blog

2010-02-22T17:16:00.000Z

A parishioner has set up a new blog to provide information on the music at the 10.30 Missa Cantata on Sundays in the parish. See: Our Lady of the Rosary Church Choir.

This is for the Choir, the congregation and anyone else interested in music for the Latin Mass in the older form. There are links to copies of music and there will be links to video clips showing examples of people singing the various musical texts.

Stations of the Cross in Lent

2010-02-22T17:13:00.000Z

During Lent we have Stations of the Cross in the Church each Friday at 7.30pm. There Stations are also prayed every Monday in Lent after the 10am Mass. To make the sacrifice of attending the Stations each week is a very worthwhile penance for Lent.

A plenary (under the usual conditions) is attached to devout participation in the Stations of the Cross.

Congratulations to Erin

2010-02-22T17:11:00.000Z

Congratulations to Erin Audrey Webb who was recently baptised. She is shown here, held by her Godmother, Suzanne Fahey with her proud father, Simon, looking on.

Michael Hobson latest

2010-02-16T17:01:00.001Z

Michael Hobson has been busy in the run-up to the Olympics: and not only with his own training. As Head Athletics & Multi-Skills coach, he has been helping to prepare athletes for the Special Olympics Richmond.

He is also arranging an event in memory of his friend Joe Allen who died of a brain tumour last March. As Joe was such a talented 1500 metre runner, it was decided that a mile would be held in his memory. The event is to be held at Erith stadium on the 21st of March (time to be announced). Everyone is welcome to take part by running, jogging, or walking.

Funds raised will go to support paediatric brain tumour research at the Royal Marsden hospital in Sutton, where Joe had been treated during his illness.

Congratulations to Paul and Katie

2009-12-22T13:59:00.005Z

Congratulations to Paul Fox and Katie Stone who were married today at Our Lady of the Rosary.

(See also the post at the my personal blog.)

Altar Servers’ Mass

2009-12-20T17:06:00.002Z

On Tuesday 29 December there will be a special Mass at 10.30am for the altar servers. I encourage all the children who serve at Mass to come along on that day. Those servers who have been serving regularly and have not yet received their St Stephen’s medal are invited to participate in the enrolment ceremony which will be held at the Mass.

Mass Intentions for 2010

2009-12-20T17:04:00.000Z

I have now booked in all the Masses that were requested for particular dates in 2010. Please see the noticeboard in the Lady aisle. Personalised printouts are available in the Small Hall.

Recently requested Masses will now be booked into the diary.

Crib Service today

2009-12-20T16:40:00.009Z

Our Crib Service today was a heartwarming occasion with little shepherds, angels and kings taking part in a tableau to celebrate the birth of our Saviour Jesus Christ.

Some of the older ones read passages from the Holy Scriptures:

and some of the younger ones just took part in their own way:

One young shepherd was particularly enthused by some of the carols:

The Kings made their procession with gifts as described in Holy Writ. It was great that so many dads came along like St Joseph, the "upright and just man", supporting the family occasion:

And finally, all the children gathered to sing, to receive a blessing, to be photographed by loving parents and to help us all to enter into the spirit of the feast day:

Christmas Services

2009-12-20T16:38:00.000Z

There is a special page with times of services for Christmas and the New Year.

Please note that there is no early evening Mass on Christmas Eve. Our first Mass for Christmas is the Midnight Mass. The Church will be open from 11pm. Carols before Midnight Mass begin at 11.20pm.

May Jesus Christ,
the Son of God
who became man
for our salvation,
bless you
and your families
during this Holy Season.

Christmas lunch at Aylesford

2009-12-16T21:34:00.000Z

The temperature has dropped in this part of the world over the past couple of days and the pond at Aylesford had chunks of ice floating on the surface.

Aylesford, the Carmelite Priory confiscated by King Henry VIII and re-acquired by the Carmelites in 1949, was the home of St Simon Stock who received the vision of Our Lady, granting him the brown scapular which is worn, in miniature form, by Catholics all over the world. I always love to visit the Priory which is a mixture of ancient and modern buildings, the home of a community living and working in the service of the gospel.

A forty minute drive in the coach took us there from Blackfen today for a "Christmas Lunch" organised by the Union of Catholic Mothers. I know it is still Advent but these occasions are a good way for people to get together, spend a day out safely, and enjoy a good lunch in good company. I'll admit that I did doze a little on the coach on the way back but I think I was not the only one.

Catechism for children after 9am Mass

2009-12-12T16:25:00.000Z

Catechism for children is held between the 9am and 10.30am Masses on Sunday morning between about 9.50am and 10.20am. Pre-schoolers to Yr 6 are catered for in separate groups. There is also an informal Q&A session for young people of secondary school age.

Tea and coffee is provided as well so adults are welcome to come in to meet other parishioners after Mass.

Thank you

2009-12-12T16:24:00.000Z

Cathy writes to thank you for your help in raising £431 for Breast Cancer Care last week. The first prize in the raffle, a flight over Kent, has not yet been claimed. The winning ticket is pink 125 (serial number: AN2T TE4R)

Parish Pilgrimage to Lourdes

2009-12-12T16:21:00.001Z

From 31 May to 4 June 2010

The parish pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place during the summer half-term. The cost is £450 and in line with our family-friendly policy, we offer half-price for children under 16. By managing all the arrangements ourselves, we keep the cost much lower than commercial pilgrimages.

The cost includes flights, transfers, and half-board accommodation in the 3* Grand Hotel D’Angleterre (for single rooms we pass on the supplement charged by the hotel).
The Pilgrimage includes Mass each day in the traditional form, including a special Mass for children, the torchlight procession, a tour of Lourdes, and plenty of time for sightseeing, socialising and relaxation.

This year, the Pilgrimage is offered also to the parish of St Mary’s, Chislehurst, and Fr Briggs will be joining us as an additional chaplain.

Booking forms are available at the back of the Church or by email from mac.mclernon@ntlworld.com. Please return your form and deposit as soon as possible to secure a place.

Arise Once More - Reviving Catholic Britain

2009-11-21T16:24:00.002Z

St Anthony Communications have produced a DVD called "Arise Once More" to offer an encouraging and hopeful look at Catholicism in Britain today and to encourage Catholics to revive the faith by their example, teaching and witness.

The film gives a summary of the history of Catholicism in Britain, beginning with St Alban and the beginning of Christianity in these isles, following the great cultural, artistic and educational achievements of the middle ages, looking at the tragedy of the Reformation, and the Second Spring which brought new life to the Church. The last section of the film focusses on the need for a revival of Catholic life and the steps necessary to achieve it. I have just watched the film through and I think it is an excellent resource for parishes, offering an upbeat response to the dismal secularist propaganda about the Catholic Church that can be discouraging to ordinary Catholics.

The commentary is provided by James and Joanna Bogle, Fr Marcus Holden, Fr Andrew Pinsent, Fr Thomas Crean, Fr Nicholas Schofield, Fr Brian Harrison, and Sister Mary of the Trinity.

St Anthony Communications are arranging a series of public screenings next weekend, with one at Blackfen on Saturday evening.

The DVD will be shown in the Small Hall at 7.15pm (Sat 28 November). There will be light refreshments available in the Hall after the 6pm Mass.
The running time of the film is 33 minutes.

Here is the link to order a copy of "Arise Once More" online.

Cheese and Wine tasting in aid of Breast Cancer Care

2009-11-21T16:19:00.003Z

A Cheese and Wine tasting afternoon will be held in the Large Hall on 5 December 2-5pm. £5.00 per ticket. Mulled wine, mince pies and hand made Christmas Cards will also be on sale (soft drinks will also be available) All proceeds to go to Breast Cancer Care. Tickets on sale after all Masses weekends of 21st and 28th November.

Raffle tickets are available with some amazing prizes.

1st prize: Aeroplane flight over Kent with own pilot!
2nd prize: a London Walk of your choice for you and up to 20 friends conducted by a Blue Badge Holder
3rd prize: fitness assessment and one to one session with personal trainer.

The draw will be conducted at the Cheese and Wine tasting . Tickets £1 each or 10 for £5.00.

Cathy Edwards will be selling tickets after Masses this weekend.

John Simpson RIP

2009-11-21T16:16:00.000Z

Of your charity, please pray for the repose of the soul John Simpson who died recently.

The body will be brought to the Church on Wednesday 9 December at 4.30pm.
The Requiem Mass (Latin) will be on Thursday 10 December at 10.30am, followed by committal at Eltham Crematorium.

Confirmation 2010

2009-11-21T16:01:00.000Z

Bishop Patrick Lynch will celebrate the sacrament of Confirmation in the parish on Thursday 25 March 2010 at 7.30pm Mass. The programme of preparation will begin after Christmas. The initial meeting for parents and candidates will be on Monday 18 January at 7.30pm in the Church.

Green registration forms (for young people in Year 8) are available at the back of the Church. Please read the information carefully and return the forms as soon as possible.

First Holy Communion

2009-11-21T16:00:00.000Z

There are yellow forms at the back of the Church for those children in Year 3 whose parents wish them to prepare for their First Communion next year. Please return the form to the presbytery as soon as possible. Children preparing for first Communion should be coming regularly to Mass every Sunday.

The first of the parents’ evenings will be on Monday 11 January 2010 at 7.30pm in the Church. It is very important for parents to attend this session. General advice regarding the dress code for first Communion will be given at the first meeting. There will also be two further meetings on Monday 22 February at 7.30pm and on Friday 16 April for parents of first Holy Communion children to help you to support your child in their faith.

Classes will be arranged for the children from January to May on Mondays at 5pm and on Thursdays at 4.15pm. If there is a serious reason why any particular time would be impossible, please let us know on the attached form. However, it is important that the first Holy Communion classes are given priority over other activities.

The first Holy Communion Masses will be on Saturday 8 May and Saturday 15 May. Parents may also opt for their children to receive their first Holy Communion at the sung Latin Mass on Saturday 1 May.

Children preparing for first Holy Communion must have already been baptised. It is essential that they are coming to Mass regularly every week. Children will also be prepared for their first Confession which must be made before first Holy Communion.

Please return the form before Christmas. Children will not be admitted to the programme after it has started in January.

Talk on the Priesthood

2009-11-14T21:55:00.002Z

As part of our Bexley Deanery Mission Year, (an our celebration of the Year for Priests) the second of our talks on the priesthood will be held at the Church Hall of St John Vianney, Bexleyheath.

On Friday 20 Nov at 7pm, Fr Marcus Holden, author of Evangelium will be speaking on the Priesthood. After the talk there will be refreshments and a chance to meet the speaker.

Children's Crib Service

2009-11-14T21:52:00.001Z

Our Children's Crib Service will be on Sunday 20 December at 3pm. This is an informal celebration with Nativity pageant with carols and readings especially for children. All children are welcome to come, dressed simply as shepherds, angels or kings.

Carol and Memorial Service

2009-11-14T21:47:00.002Z

Our Parish Carol Service will be on Sunday 6 December 3pm. At this Service, held in co-operation with Ashdown Funeral Services, we will also remember those who have died. It offers an opportunity for us to welcome non-Catholics to the Church, offering our prayers and charity.

Family Day 3 October

2009-09-24T18:09:00.003+01:00

On Saturday 3 October there will be a Family Day in the parish. This is a day for all the family to pray together with other families, to support one another in the faith, to deepen our love for Christ and our understanding of the teaching of the Church.

Programme
There is a parish Mass (Latin, older form, Missa Cantata) at 10.30am and confessions available during Mass; Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament is at 11.30am, followed by the Marian Anthem.

The Family Day proper begins with the blessing of roses for the feast of St Thérèse (bring as many roses as you like!) and a talk at 12noon for all in the Church followed by lunch in the Hall. After lunch there will be workshops for parents, grandparents, teenagers and children.

3.45pm Finish with tea, juice and biscuits. There are confessions from 5-5.30pm) and the parish Mass (English) is at 6pm

Do come along for this enjoyable and uplifting day.

Congratulations to Vicky and Justin

2009-07-27T20:46:00.003+01:00

Congratulations to Vicky Gallagher and Justin Driver who were married on Saturday 25 July at Our Lady of the Rosary.

Newsletter for August

2009-07-24T10:49:00.001+01:00

According to our usual custom, there will be one newsletter for the whole of August. Please submit any notices for events in August or early September by this Thursday.

A magnificent encyclical in a great tradition

2009-07-18T14:35:00.000+01:00

The Holy Father’s new encyclical Caritas in Veritate is typical of his writing generally. Each individual sentence is perfectly lucid and yet taken as a whole it is a dense read, demanding full attention and often requiring the reader to go back again to take in the full impact of the powerful ideas expounded. My personal reaction after finishing it was that this is a superb exposition of the Church’s social teaching, tailored expertly to our present time. As well as being magisterial in the theological sense, it is a fine example of the work of our “papa professore”.

Beginning in a way that reflects the best quality of the Holy Father’s German academic background, an orderly and logical approach to complex topics, the introduction offers an exposition of the mutual relationship between charity and truth, explaining that truth must be sought and expressed within the “economy” of charity but that charity in its turn must be “understood, confirmed and practised in the light of truth” (n.2) because without truth, charity is an empty shell. A key principle is the nature of love itself which, almost in passing, Pope Benedict reminds us, is to desire the good of the other (n.7)

On this basis, the encyclical proceeds, considering first of all Paul VI’s Populorum Progressio in the light of the hermeneutic of continuity. Importantly, Pope Benedict reminds us that the Church’s public presence cannot be limited to charitable activities; a limitation that is a significant danger in secular legislation and a danger also in Catholic schools and parishes where it can sometimes seem as though the only worthwhile activity is raising money for one or other charity. Worthy as these activities are, they must not derail the Church’s missionary mandate.

The encyclical does not shy away from the question of financial activity, placing this too within the context of mutual relationship in society, decrying the purely speculative approach to the market and calling for a “new humanistic synthesis” in the face of globalisation – which is, after all, simply an aspect of relationships between human persons made inevitable by increased communication. For those of us interested in the opportunities presented by the internet, the passing remark criticising the “unduly rigid assertion of the right to intellectual property” (n.22) applies not only to the field of health care which the Holy Father mentions, but also within the Church to the accessibility of liturgical texts.

Another crucial principal that Pope Benedict underlines is that the primary capital to be safeguarded, when we are thinking of economic and social assets, is the human person in his or her integrity. Thus he lays considerable emphasis on the sanctity of human life, expertly drawing pro-life concerns into the question of development and starkly contradicting the common view that pro-life and development priorities are somehow opposed. For me, this is one of the highlights of the encyclical: it is perfectly proper for pro-lifers to pull out particular quotations since there are some fine points made, but it is also heartening to see the pro-life message presented positively within the context of the Church’s commitment to the common good, tackling poverty, and the development of peoples.

In the third chapter, on fraternity, economic development and civil society, Pope Benedict puts the doctrine of original sin firmly in its proper place as the root explanation for the evils we experience in society. As the antidote for this, he speaks at length on the “spirit of gift”, the genuine charity which is gratuitous, rather than driven by necessity. As a deepening of the spirit of philanthropy (which itself could surely be a lesson we could learn from some of the great Victorians) he courageously proposes that gratuitousness must find a place even within economic activity.

On human rights, the Holy Father again brings us back to a fundamental principle that rights presuppose duties (n.43). He emphasises the vital importance of the family and, when speaking on the duty that we have to enable a just distribution of resources related to energy, he goes further to speak on a theme that he has addressed before, the underlying demand to preserve the human ecology which is necessary itself if society is to be in a position to address the problems of the material ecology.

The chapter on the co-operation of the human family takes up and reinforces familiar themes in the tradition of Catholic social teaching, applying them to the present time. In addition to observations on the welfare state, trade unions and finance, the Holy Father also reflects on the more modern phenomenon of tourism, gently challenging us to consider the effects of our holidays on others, and on the duties of the “consumer”, again a consideration that is especially relevant for modern western society.

Considering technology in general, Pope Benedict warns against the “promethean presumption” that we can re-create ourselves through technology, and reprises his teaching on the means of social communication urging that these too should have the good of the human person at the heart of their activity, rather than taking refuge in a supposed moral neutrality which ultimately destroys social relationships.

It seems to me futile to attempt to analyse the encyclical in terms of “left” and “right” or to apportion elements of it to particular interests or political leanings. The Church’s social teaching has always offered the reflection of an “honest broker” who is not involved in party politics; and that is how it should be. Caritas in Veritate is a magnificent contribution to that venerable tradition, offering thoughtful, instructive, and challenging guidance on the problems that society faces today.

Race Night

2009-07-06T11:01:00.002+01:00

The Parish Social Club are holding a “Big Screen Race Night” in the Large Hall on Saturday 18 July, starting at 8.30pm. Entry £2 for non-members.

The evening will raise funds for the Rainbow Trust Children's Charity which provides practical and emotional support to families who have a child with a life threatening or terminal illness.

CTiS 50th Anniversary

2009-07-06T10:59:00.002+01:00

Churches Together in Sidcup are having a celebration at The Green, Sidcup Place on Sunday 26th July from 6pm. This will be an opportunity to promote and represent Our Lady of the Rosary parish, and meet with the other Christian communities in Sidcup.

Tihs is a family event at which there will be children's activities and input from CRIBS. All are welcome to this free event! (Helpers are wanted too.)

Bethlehem Art

2009-07-06T10:52:00.002+01:00

Owing to the troubles in the Holy Land, very few tourists visit Bethlehem and so many families suffer poverty because they cannot selling their works to secure a decent lifestyle.

Bethlehem Art provides an income for the few Christian families still living in Bethlehem by selling their works for them here in the UK. They will be visiting the parish next weekend (11-12 July) and I encourage you to support their work by purchasing devotional items that they have made.

Mass for bereaved parents

2009-07-04T11:03:00.002+01:00

On Monday 6 July at 7.30pm, there will be a special Mass at which we will remember those children and young people who have died, commending them to the love of our Lord. We also pray for their parents, their families, and their friends. There will be a reception afterwards in the Large Hall. All those who have lost children, however long ago, are warmly invited.

This year, the celebration falls on the feast of St Maria Goretti and so we will ask the prayers of the young virgin martyr for all our families.

Year of the Priest - Pope Benedict's Letter

2009-06-20T17:42:00.003+01:00

In the newsletter this week, I mentioned Pope Benedict's excellent letter introducing the Year for Priests which runs from the Feast of the Sacred Heart which we celebrated yesterday, until 19 June 2010.

In the letter, the Holy Father refers often to the writings of the Curé of Ars, St John Vianney. For example, he says:

Saint John Mary Vianney taught his parishioners primarily by the witness of his life. It was from his example that they learned to pray, halting frequently before the tabernacle for a visit to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. “One need not say much to pray well” – the Curé explained to them – “We know that Jesus is there in the tabernacle: let us open our hearts to him, let us rejoice in his sacred presence. That is the best prayer”.

Here is the link for you to read the letter:
Letter proclaiming a Year for Priests