Month: August 2023

Edmund of Canterbury & St. Thomas More

My Dear Friends in Christ,                                    

I sit here writing this final parish newsletter as your parish priest here at St Edmund’s. After twenty-one years of my priestly life with you my parish family, it is with a sad and heavy heart that I take my leave of you all to begin this new chapter in my life at Brentwood Cathedral.  While I was on holiday and during these past weeks, I have been reflecting on all my years here in the parish.  I have met so many wonderful people during this time, some fleetingly, and for many here, I have watched families grow; the children I first baptised are now young men and women themselves making their way in the world. I think of all the hundreds of Baptisms, First Confessions & Communions, Confirmations, Marriages, Funerals, Converts, and various other celebrations that have taken place here. A priest is uniquely privileged to share in people’s lives at the most intimate of levels, and for this I thank you all. 

It has been an honour and privilege to have served as your Parish Priest here in Loughton, and I can only hope and pray that I have helped you to come a little close to the Lord. Obviously, it is Jesus Christ who is at the heart of every Christian Family, and it has always been my desire through preaching and teaching to proclaim the Gospel message to the best of my ability. One of the greatest lessens every priest learns throughout his life is, and I think this reality comes with maturity, is that there is only One Saviour, and it’s not me! I have truly loved being a priest for the past 42 years, and hope that the Lord gives me the health and strength to continue to be at his service in this new venture at Brentwood Cathedral.                                                            

I would like to thank all the parishioners who have been involved in all sorts of different ways throughout the past twenty-one years. The collaboration of Priest and People is fundamentally at the heart of all parish life. I will single out a few people who have assisted me and helped our parish in a special way: John Campbell, who helped negotiate the sale of the St Thomas More site in Debden, this was a difficult process with lots of hiccoughs along the way. Michael Manzi, who for many years silently worked in the background looking after all the parish’s  finances, which was a totally invaluable service to the Parish. Our new Parish Finance Accountant is Adam Dodds; I thank him for assuming this role. Veronica Short has been such a help to me in the Sacristy, faithfully looking after everything so that our masses and the sacristy can run smoothly. And finally, I would like to thank my housekeeper Josie Sison, who has looked after and cared for me for the past several years. Words cannot express my gratitude for everything she has done; many of you will not know her, but she really has worked very hard to ensure that I was well fed, and that the presbytery was cared for.  I appeal to you all to continue to assist and help your new Parish Priest, Fr Adrian; he will certainly need your help in these coming weeks, not only to settle in, but to continue the work that has already been done.  I couldn’t have asked for a nicer priest to be sent to you as your Pastor. Please show him the same love and kindness that you have shown to me through the years, this will be your greatest gift to me.

Priests are also very human, and we make mistakes on occasions. I learnt a long time ago that it is so important before you leave any parish to say sorry for any mistakes and If I have offended anyone, it was never my intention, and I’m truly sorry! My desire was always for your good and the building up of the kingdom in this little pocket of the Lord’s Vineyard. I have always believed that the Lord desires that we be the best version of ourselves, and we do that by emulating Him in our Kindness, Generosity & Love.

I will leave St Edmund’s Parish on Wednesday 30^th August. Fr Adrian has kindly invited me back to a special Mass of Thanksgiving and Farewell on Sunday 1^st October at the 11.00am Mass. I sincerely hope you’ll be able to join me on that occasion.  If ever you’re in Brentwood, please drop in for a cup of tea.

May God Bless you All, please continue to pray for me, and always be kind and loving to one another. 

With fondest Love & Peace,           

FR JOHN’S NEW ADDRESS as of 30^th August:

Address: Brentwood Cathedral, Clergy House, 28 Ingrave Road, Brentwood, Essex. CM14 8AT      Phone No: 01277 265235  Email: cathedral@brcdt.org

             I would like to express my sincere and grateful thanks to those who helped to pack books and my belongings ready for the move. I’m truly grateful for your generosity of time and energy. I don’t think I will need any more help now, so a big thank you to you all.

             I also ask your prayers for all the priest who will be moving over the next week to take up their new assignments, especially Fr Adrian Lowe who will be your new Parish priest. I know he is really excited about coming to St Edmund’s. 

             It is customary for the outgoing Parish Priest to be invited back to his former parish for a thanksgiving celebration. I have been invited by Fr Adrian for a Mass of Thanksgiving on Sunday 1^st October at the 11.00am Mass.  As I will actually be leaving before the resumption of the school academic year, and also many people will still be on holiday, it will be lovely to say a formal goodbye to the whole community on the 1^st October; I trust you’ll be able to join me. I would like to thank Fr Adrian for this kind invitation. Fr Adrian has been invited back to Wanstead for his celebration by the new PP on Sunday 17^th September at 6.30pm.

MASS OF INSTALLATION AS DEAN OF BRENTWOOD CATHEDRAL This invitation is extended to the whole Parish of St Edmund’s, Loughton, you will be most welcome to come to the Installation Mass on Friday 22^nd September at 7.00pm. Our Bishop Alan Williams will celebrate the Installation Mass.

             God Bless You All,

FR JOHN’S LAST SUNDAY MASSES: Over the past twenty-one years I have baptised many children, given First Holy Communion to hundreds of children, performed many marriages and celebrated Confirmation with many of our teenagers. It would be truly wonderful if as many as possible could attend this weekend’s masses. I know it is still holiday time, but it would be lovely to see as many as possible before, I leave on Wednesday 30^th August.  I thank Almighty God for being able to assist so many in our parish on the faith journey and pray for you all. St Edmund’s will always have a special place in my heart. I thank you for the many things you have taught me as your Pastor. I now ask your prayers. 

CAN YOU HELP JOSIE? This is an appeal for help at the Presbytery on Thursday 31^st August, the day after Fr John leaves for Brentwood.  Fr Adrian will be arriving on Friday 1^st September about lunchtime; Josie (parish housekeeper) would be truly grateful for a little help in getting the house back into some order after all the packing that had taken place over the past month. There will be a Communion Service at 9.00am that morning, and if you could come to the Presbytery for an hour or two Josie would be most grateful. Obviously, it’s a big house so there will be plenty to do! With anticipated thanks!

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PROGRAMME 2023/24: The new First Holy Communion Programme will commence on Wednesday 13^th September with a Parents’ Meeting at 7.30pm in the Parish Hall. (You will be able to purchase your child’s workbook ‘I Belong’ £8.00). The children’s first class will take place on Sunday 17^th September at 10.00am in the Parish Retreat. (This is the big meeting room above the Parish Hall). This is such an important time in your child’s life and this preparation for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and the Holy Eucharist is the next stage on their Faith Journey. Katheryn Poulter and Elena Manara are our First Holy Communion Catechists. We encourage all the children’s parents to be involved with the programme throughout the year. Please keep the children in your thoughts and prayers.

CONFIRMATION PROGRAMME: Just a short note to inform all our candidates for the Sacrament of Confirmation, that the Bishop’s Office will notify your new Parish Priest, Fr Adrian, when the Parish Visitation and Confirmation will take place next year 2024. Until then, we cannot give a specific date for starting the programme. Mark Anthony and several other parishioners are the Catechists for the preparation of the Sacrament. Also, please pray for all the Confirmation Candidates. 

RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS: Journey of Faith. Is there anyone who may be interested in the RCIA Program, possibly with the view of being received into full communion with the Roman Catholic Faith? Every year we run this programme commencing at the beginning of September, leading to reception into the Church at the Easter Vigil. It is a systematic programme of every aspect of Catholicism, including Scripture, Sacramental Life, and The Dogma’s of our Faith, Catholic Practice & traditions, Christology & Mariology, Study of the Church. Please see Fr Adrian or Aidan Potter who will explain the entire process to you.

EPPING FOREST FOODBANK DONATIONS: Thank you to all parishioners who continue to generously donate items for the Foodbank. They are truly grateful for the generosity our parish has shown and our donations are still needed desperately as more and more people in our community are struggling during this cost of living crisis. The Foodbank have asked for support with the following items: sponge pudding desserts, custard, juice, tinned meat, noodles, snack bars, small chocolate bars, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, toilet roll and deodorant. Please place any donations in the dedicated plastic boxes in the garage. Thank you! You can also keep up to date with the Foodbank news via their facebook page: www.facebook.com/EppingForestFoodbank/

MASS INTENTIONS: There is a lot of availability in the Parish Mass register. If anyone wants a mass intention for any reason, Anniversaries, birthdays, special occasions, for anyone who is sick, please complete the Mass Envelope in the porch and leave off at the presbytery.

REGISTERING AT THE PARISH: It’s always important to have details of all our parishioners. There are Parish Registration Forms in the Porch of the Church. Please complete and return to the Presbytery.

BAPTISMS: If there are parents wishing to have their children baptised at St Edmund’s could you kindly contact your new parish priest Fr Adrian Lowe as soon as possible. For first time parents there is a Baptismal Programme run by Mrs Sharon Chalk. Baptisms take place on either Saturday or Sunday at 12.30pm

NEWSLETTER ITEMS: To assist and help Fr Adrian when he arrives in the Parish, could you kindly submit any Newsletter items by Wednesday morning. The Newsletter tends to be put together on Thursday and printed Friday. Obviously late items will appear in the following week’s Newsletter. Thank you!

PARISH NEWSLETTER: If you would like to receive the Parish Newsletter via Email each week, please contact Iain McLay iain.m.mclay@googlemail.com this gives and extended version of the Weekly bulletin

The Parish Newsletter can also be obtained and downloaded from the Parish Website.  They are always published on a Saturday Morning.

PLEASE PRAY FOR THOSE SICK IN OUR PARISH

Edgar Azzopardi, Margaret Baldwin, Evelyn Bearne, Karl Britz, Brenda Bryant, Carlos Camacho, Jane Downs, Steve Dalgliesh, Pat Fenn, Bernadette Hall, Ann Hawkes, Claire Howes, Shaun Keel, Les Langan,  Angela Long, Lilian Mothersole, John McKernan, Rosemary O’Rourke, Remy, Geraldine Taylor, Vera Taylor, Mary & Steve Witten, James Wright. And all our loved ones. 

ANNIVERSARIES: Please pray for all whose anniversaries occur at this time and for all of our deceased loved ones, Requiescant in Pace.

Requiescat in Pace: We remember especially Fr Jim Boothman former assistant priest in this parish who passed away recently.

WEEKLY OFFERTORY: My sincere thanks to those who are making their weekly contribution of Gift Aid envelopes and through the banking system that has been set up through the Diocese whereby your Offertory can be paid directly into the Parish Account, details below:

Donate

Or you can use Parish Bank Account: Using Online Banking
HSBC Sort Code 40-13-22                 PLEASE BE GENEROUS IN YOUR
Account Number: 11019651                       GIFTS TO GOD & HIS CHURCH

FROM OUR GIFT AID ORGANISER: Our Parish Gift Aid Organiser is Abbie Akinfenwa – abbie.akinfenwa@btinternet.com or text to 0775470934 with your name and gift aid number.  I would encourage all parishioners to join the Parish Gift Aid Scheme. If you are a Taxpayer, it’s a really painless process, all we need is you name and address, there are Gift Aid Application Forms in the Porch of the Church, and Abbie can give you all the help you need re information. We are able to claim back 25 pence in every pound donated to the church, when you use your envelopes or pay by Standing Order.  Please think about joining, and thanks to those who already belong!

VISITS TO THE SICK & HOUSEBOUND: Fortunately, Fr John was able to get around to see all the sick and housebound before his departure. He has passed on all their details to Fr Adrian. If there are any parishioners who are now finding it more difficult to get out, and even get to Holy Mass, please contact the presbytery. Fr Adrian will be only too happy to visit you at home.  

IMPORTANT NOTE FOR OUR CONTEMPORARY MUSIC GROUP: Our next 11am Sunday Mass will be held on the 3rd September and we will be having a practice for this Mass on Thursday,31st August between 7pm and 8pm. Would all our singers and musicians make every effort to come to the practice as well as the Mass please. The 3rd September will be our first Sunday Mass with our new Parish priest, Fr. Adrian, and it would be nice if we could be well practised to welcome him!   

It would also be great if we had more young singers and their families to join our group and you would be made very welcome!

 ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY: The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SVP) is an international voluntary organization in the Catholic Church, founded in 1833 for the sanctification of its members by personal service of the poor. The St Vincent de Paul Society approaches each request for help with compassion and consideration for support tailored to the uniqueness of the individual and situation. I have been approached by a few members of the parish to re-establish the SVP here in our parish. If you are interested in joining a Parish SVP Conference, please speak to Fr John or Sharon Fitzmaurice. Thank you!  More information later.

CHARITY CHRISTMAS CONCERT AT ST EDMUND’S On the 16th December (7.30-9.30pm) the wonderful Winnie Greer, “science teacher by day Jazz singer by niht” will be returning to St Edmund’s with her band for an evening of Christmas festive favourites in aid of The Essex based Helen Rollason Cancer Charity. A chance to enjoy some lovely music while raising money for a great cause and sharing a glass of mulled wine. Tickets are £20 each and available from the link below. If you book before 31st August there is an “early bird” rate of £15.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-evening-of-festive-favourites-in-aid-of-helen-rollason-cancer-charity-tickets-640159623667

FORWARD PLANNING: As the new Academic Year approaches, I would specifically ask all families of children who will be going into year 6 in September to think very seriously about your child’s ongoing Catholic education when choosing prospective secondary Schools for your children. At the beginning of September, you will be notified by Essex County that your child is due to make the transition from Primary to Secondary School. We have an excellent Roman Catholic Secondary School, Trinity in Woodford, which has enjoyed a sterling reputation for many decades. Dr Paul Doherty OBE has been at the helm of the ship for well over 40 years. Obviously, with Secondary Schools being oversubscribed, Catholic Practice of the faith is extremely important. As Roman Catholics our obligation is to participate in the Weekly Celebration of Holy Mass. The School’s Admission Policy is quite strict about Catholic Practice. Also, for example the Davenant Foundation School employs a strict policy of seven years consistent practice of faith. No priest can ever sign a form that claims anything other than that. This is a matter of personal honesty and integrity. Obviously, this is something that all Roman Catholics are aware of; but I think sometimes we need to be reminded of these facts. 

PARISH READERS: We are always looking for some new Parish Lectors; parishioners who would be willing to read on a regular basis at one of the Sunday Masses. We have a few already, but it would be wonderful if there could be a few more volunteers. ALSO: If any of our regular weekday Mass attendees would be willing to read at the weekday masses, we could organise a rota. Since Covid there haven’t been any regular readers. You may feel called to this ministry, and once again, it is doing something for God and the Community. Please speak to Fr. Adrian. 

MASS INTENTIONS – AUGUST –  SEPTEMBER 2023

Sat 26th	10.00am	Teresa Kane RIP (Anni) (Margaret Duffy)
		Confessions 11am – 12Noon or on demand Vigil Mass for Sunday. Confessions at 5.30pm
Sat 26th	6.00pm	People of the Parish
Sun 27th	9.00am	Vincent Brown RIP (Sue & John Campbell)
Sun 27th	11:00am	Mary Maher RIP (Walsh Family )
Mon 28th	9.00am	Fr John Thanksgiving for 21 Years at St Edmund’s (Lucy Weight)
Tues 29th	9.00am	Peter Smith RIP (Paul Falco)
Wed 30th	9.00am	Thanksgiving for Fr John’s 21 years at St Edmund’s (Remy)
Thur 31st	9.00am	Communion Service
Fri 1st	9.00am	Communion Service
Sat 2nd	9.00am	Carmen Antaki RIP (Carmen’s Family)
		Confessions 11am – 12Noon or on demand Vigil Mass for Sunday. Confessions at 5.30pm
Sat 2nd	6.00pm	Rhona Condon RIP (Betty Brown)
Sun 3rd	9.00am	People of the Parish
Sun 3rd	11:00am	Mark & Spiro Tanti RIP

Please kindly put your Mass requests in early for anniversaries etc., this is to avoid any disappointment if a particular date has already been booked,

Parish Phone No: 0208 508 3492      Email: loughton@brcdt.org

The Brentwood Diocesan Trust     Registered Charity No. 234092

21st Sunday in Ordinary Time

First Reading : Isaiah 22:19-23

Thus says the Lord of Hosts to Shebna, the master of the palace:

I dismiss you from your office,

I remove you from your post,

and the same day I call on my servant

Eliakim son of Hilkiah.

I invest him with your robe,

gird him with your sash,

entrust him with your authority;

and he shall be a father

to the inhabitants of Jerusalem

and to the House of Judah.

I place the key of the House of David

on his shoulder;

should he open, no one shall close,

should he close, no one shall open.

I drive him like a peg

into a firm place;

he will become a throne of glory

for his father’s house.

Responsive Psalm : Psalm 137(138):1-3,6,8

Your love, O Lord, is eternal: discard not the work of your hands.

I thank you, Lord, with all my heart:

  you have heard the words of my mouth.

In the presence of the angels I will bless you.

  I will adore before your holy temple.

Your love, O Lord, is eternal: discard not the work of your hands.

I thank you for your faithfulness and love,

  which excel all we ever knew of you.

On the day I called, you answered;

  you increased the strength of my soul.

Your love, O Lord, is eternal: discard not the work of your hands.

The Lord is high yet he looks on the lowly

  and the haughty he knows from afar.

Your love, O Lord, is eternal,

  discard not the work of your hands.

Your love, O Lord, is eternal: discard not the work of your hands.

Second Reading : 

Romans 11:33-36

How rich are the depths of God – how deep his wisdom and knowledge – and how impossible to penetrate his motives or understand his methods! Who could ever know the mind of the Lord? Who could ever be his counsellor? Who could ever give him anything or lend him anything? All that exists comes from him; all is by him and for him. To him be glory for ever! Amen.

Gospel : Matthew 16:13-20

When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi he put this question to his disciples, ‘Who do people say the Son of Man is?’ And they said, ‘Some say he is John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ ‘But you,’ he said ‘who do you say I am?’ Then Simon Peter spoke up, ‘You are the Christ,’ he said, ‘the Son of the living God.’ Jesus replied, ‘Simon son of Jonah, you are a happy man! Because it was not flesh and blood that revealed this to you but my Father in heaven. So I now say to you: You are Peter and on this rock I will build my Church. And the gates of the underworld can never hold out against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven: whatever you bind on earth shall be considered bound in heaven; whatever you loose on earth shall be considered loosed in heaven.’ Then he gave the disciples strict orders not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.

Edmund of Canterbury & St. Thomas More

Dear Friends in Christ,                                                                                 Twentieth  Sunday of the Year

   The reaction of Jesus’ disciples to the mother of the demon-possessed child, suggests that the woman had been pursuing them and they have had enough of her. They ask Jesus to send her away. In a reply that seems totally unrelated, Jesus reveals the reason his lack of response to the woman’s need: ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel’. Jesus’ primary mission was to gather all the faithful together into God’s kingdom so that they would become a people covenanted by God and each other and so be a light to the nations.

             What a shame that we only know this courageous woman by her nationality and not her name! She does not give up but cries out one more time: ‘Lord help me!’ Jesus’ response to her plea is hard for us to hear but bear with us and light will be shed. He says: ‘It is not fair to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs’. In using the word ‘dogs’ Jesus is drawing on a popular stereotype used by the Jews in contempt of Gentiles but he in fact adopted a kinder term which might be translated ‘pups’. He is continuing this theme of his mission to minister to the Jewish nation. In her response, the woman reveals no resentment, just profound faith: ‘Yes, Lord, even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their mater’s table’. Identifying immediately with her ‘great faith’ Jesus duly rewards her with her daughter’s healing.

             The woman’s witness of courageous perseverance and utter determination to cling to the Lord holds out hope for us all. It’s easy to be despondent and lose faith if our prayers aren’t answered immediately. We must be persistent in prayer!

Fr John will be leaving St Edmund’s Parish on Wednesday 30^th August

to take up his new assignment as Dean of Brentwood Cathedral.

Fr Adrian Lowe will arrive at St Edmund’s on

Friday 1^st September to take us his assignment as Prish Priest.

Please keep them both in your prayers as they begin

this new chapter in their Priestly lives.

Dear Friends in Christ                                                                                               20^th Sunday of the Year 2023

             This will be my last full week at St Edmund’s Parish as I will be leaving on Wednesday 30^th August to take up my new assignment at Brentwood Cathedral. As you can appreciate, moving is never easy, especially after twenty-one years of being your Pastor. But as priests, it is the life we embrace;  on the day of ordination, I took a sacred promise of obedience to my bishop, so I have always responded with acceptance.  Being with you for so long as my spiritual family I have watched families grow, seen the children I baptised become young men and women making their way in the world, these are some the wonderful memories that I will carry with me in my heart. To have met so many wonderful people during these years has certainly been a grace and blessing. As I told you recently half of my Priesthood has been spent with you here in Loughton.  I have been extremely happy here and thank Almighty God for giving me such a long assignment. Now a new chapter must begin!  I ask for your prayers in the weeks and months ahead that I settle quickly at the Cathedral Parish, and that I can continue to serve the People of God.

             I would like to express my sincere and grateful thanks to those who helped to pack books and my belongings ready for the move. I’m truly grateful for your generosity of time and energy. I don’t think I will need anymore help now, so a big thank you to you all.

             I also ask you prayers for all the priest who will be moving over the next week to take up their new assignments, especially Fr Adrian Lowe who will be your new Parish priest. I know he is really excited about coming to St Edmund’s. 

             It is customary for the outgoing Parish Priest to be invited back to his former parish for a thanksgiving celebration. I have been invited by Fr Adrian for a Mass of Thanksgiving on Sunday 1^st October at the 11.00am Mass.  As I will actually be leaving before the resumption of the school academic year, and also many people will still be on holiday, it will be lovely to say a formal goodbye to the whole community on the 1^st October; I trust you’ll be able to join me. I would like to thank Fr Adrian for this kind invitation. Fr Adrian has been invited back to Wanstead for his celebration by the new PP on Sunday 17^th September at 6.30pm.

MASS OF INSTALLATION AS DEAN OF BRENTWOOD CATHEDRAL This invitation is extended to the whole parish of St Edmund’s, you will be most welcome to come to the Installation Mass on Friday 22^nd September at 7.00pm. Our Bishop Alan Williams will celebrate the Installation Mass.

Address: Brentwood Cathedral, Ingrave Road, Brentwood, Essex. CM15 8AT

             God Bless You All,     

FR JOHN’S LAST SUNDAY MASSES: Over the past twenty-one years I have baptised many children, given First Holy Communion to hundreds of children, performed many marriages, celebrated Confirmation with many of our teenagers. It would be truly wonderful if as many as possible could attend next weekend’s masses. I know it is still holiday time, but it would be lovely to see as many as possible before I leave on the 30^th August.  I thank Almighty God for being able to assist so many in our parish on the faith journey and pray for you all. St Edmund’s will always have a special place in my heart. I thank you for the many things you have taught me as your Pastor. I now ask your prayers.

PARISH SECRETARIAL EMPLOYMENT: I have forwarded the names of the various individuals who made enquiry about the part-time secretarial work at St Edmund’s Parish to Fr Adrian. Manifestly, he will contact these various people when he arrives in the Parish.    

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PROGRAMME 2023/24: The new First Holy Communion Programme will commence on Wednesday 13^th September with a Parents’ Meeting at 7.30pm in the Parish Hall. (You will be able to purchase your child’s workbook ‘I Belong’ £8.00). The children’s first class will take place on Sunday 17^th September at 10.00am in the Parish Retreat. (This is the big meeting room above the Parish Hall). This is such an important time in your child’s life and this preparation for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and the Holy Eucharist is the next stage on their Faith Journey. Katheryn Poulter and Elena Manara are our First Holy Communion Catechists. We encourage all the children’s parents to be involved with the programme throughout the year. Please keep the children in your thoughts and prayers.

CONFIRMATION PROGRAMME: Just a short note to inform all our candidates for the Sacrament of Confirmation, that the Bishop’s Office will notify your new Parish Priest, Fr Adrian, when the Parish Visitation and Confirmation will take place next year 2024. Until then, we cannot give a specific date for starting the programme. Mark Anthony and several other parishioners are the Catechists for the preparation of the Sacrament. Also, please pray for all the Confirmation Candidates. 

IMPORTANT NOTE FOR OUR CONTEMPORARY MUSIC GROUP: Our next 11am Sunday Mass will be held on the 3rd September and we will be having a practice for this Mass on Thursday,31st August between 7pm and 8pm. Would all our singers and musicians make every effort to come to the practice as well as the Mass please. The 3rd September will be our first Sunday Mass with our new Parish priest, Fr. Adrian, and it would be nice if we could be well practised to welcome him!   

It would also be great if we had more young singers and their families to join our group and you would be made very welcome!

RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS: Journey of Faith. Is there anyone who may be interested in the RCIA Program, possibly with the view of being received into full communion with the Roman Catholic Faith? Every year we run this programme commencing at the beginning of September, leading to reception into the Church at the Easter Vigil. It is a systematic programme of every aspect of Catholicism, including Scripture, Sacramental Life, and The Dogma’s of our Faith, Catholic Practice & traditions, Christology & Mariology, Study of the Church. Please see Fr John or Aidan Potter who will explain the entire process to you.

ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY: The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SVP) is an international voluntary organization in the Catholic Church, founded in 1833 for the sanctification of its members by personal service of the poor. The St Vincent de Paul Society approaches each request for help with compassion and consideration for support tailored to the uniqueness of the individual and situation. I have been approached by a few members of the parish to re-establish the SVP here in our parish. If you are interested in joining a Parish SVP Conference, please speak to Fr John or Sharon Fitzmaurice. Thank you!  More information later.

FORWARD PLANNING: As the new Academic Year approaches, I would specifically ask all families of children who will be going into year 6 in September to think very seriously about your child’s ongoing Catholic education when choosing prospective secondary Schools for your children. At the beginning of September, you will be notified by Essex County that your child is due to make the transition from Primary to Secondary School. We have an excellent Roman Catholic Secondary School, Trinity in Woodford, which has enjoyed a sterling reputation for many decades. Dr Paul Doherty OBE has been at the helm of the ship for well over 40 years. Obviously, with Secondary Schools being oversubscribed, Catholic Practice of the faith is extremely important. As Roman Catholics our obligation is to participate in the Weekly Celebration of Holy Mass. The School’s Admission Policy is quite strict about Catholic Practice. Also, for example the Davenant Foundation School employs a strict policy of seven years consistent practice of faith. No priest can ever sign a form that claims anything other than that. This is a matter of personal honesty and integrity. Obviously, this is something that all Roman Catholics are aware of; but I think sometimes we need to be reminded of these facts. 

CHARITY CHRISTMAS CONCERT AT ST EDMUND’S On the 16th December (7.30-9.30pm) the wonderful Winnie Greer, “science teacher by day Jazz singer by niht” will be returning to St Edmund’s with her band for an evening of Christmas festive favourites in aid of The Essex based Helen Rollason Cancer Charity. A chance to enjoy some lovely music while raising money for a great cause and sharing a glass of mulled wine. Tickets are £20 each and available from the link below. If you book before 31st August there is an “early bird” rate of £15.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-evening-of-festive-favourites-in-aid-of-helen-rollason-cancer-charity-tickets-640159623667

EPPING FOREST FOODBANK DONATIONS: Thank you to all parishioners who continue to generously donate items for the Foodbank. They are truly grateful for the generosity our parish has shown and our donations are still needed desperately as more and more people in our community are struggling during this cost of living crisis. The Foodbank have asked for support with the following items: sponge pudding desserts, custard, juice, tinned meat, noodles, snack bars, small chocolate bars, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, toilet roll and deodorant. Please place any donations in the dedicated plastic boxes in the garage. Thank you! You can also keep up to date with the Foodbank news via their facebook page: www.facebook.com/EppingForestFoodbank/

MASS INTENTIONS: There is a lot of availability in the Parish Mass register. If anyone wants a mass intention for any reason, Anniversaries, birthdays, special occasions, for anyone who is sick, please complete the Mass Envelope in the porch and leave off at the presbytery.

REGISTERING AT THE PARISH: It’s always important to have details of all of our parishioners. There are Parish Registration Forms in the Porch of the Church. Please complete and return to the Presbytery.

BAPTISMS: If there are parents wishing to have their children baptised at St Edmund’s could you kindly contact your new parish priest Fr Adrian Lowe as soon as possible. For first time parents there is a Baptismal Programme run by Mrs Sharon Chalk. Baptisms take place on either Saturday or Sunday at 12.30pm

PLEASE PRAY FOR THOSE SICK IN OUR PARISH

Edgar Azzopardi, Margaret Baldwin, Evelyn Bearne, Karl Britz, Brenda Bryant, Carlos Camacho, Jane Downs, Steve Dalgliesh, Pat Fenn, Bernadette Hall, Ann Hawkes, Claire Howes, Shaun Keel, Les Langan,  Angela Long, Lilian Mothersole, John McKernan, Rosemary O’Rourke, Remy, Geraldine Taylor, Vera Taylor, Mary & Steve Witten, James Wright. And all our loved ones. 

ANNIVERSARIES: Please pray for all whose anniversaries occur at this time and for all of our deceased loved ones, Requiescant in Pace.

WEEKLY OFFERTORY: My sincere thanks to those who are making their weekly contribution of Gift Aid envelopes and through the banking system that has been set up through the Diocese whereby your Offertory can be paid directly into the Parish Account, details below:

Donate

Or you can use Parish Bank Account: Using Online Banking
HSBC Sort Code 40-13-22                 PLEASE BE GENEROUS IN YOUR
Account Number: 11019651                       GIFTS TO GOD & HIS CHURCH

FROM OUR GIFT AID ORGANISER: Our Parish Gift Aid Organiser is Abbie Akinfenwa – abbie.akinfenwa@btinternet.com or text to 0775470934 with your name and gift aid number.  I would encourage all parishioners to join the Parish Gift Aid Scheme. If you are a Tax Payer, it’s a really painless process, all we need is you name and address, there are Gift Aid Application Forms in the Porch of the Church, and Abbie can give you all the help you need re information. We are able to claim back 25 pence in every pound donated to the church, when you use you envelopes or pay by Standing Order.  Please think about joining, and thanks to those who already belong! 

MASS INTENTIONS – AUGUST 2023

Sat 19th	10.00am	Frances Jesse Perrett RIP
		Confessions 11am – 12Noon or on demand Vigil Mass for Sunday. Confessions at 5.30pm
Sat 19th	6.00pm	Gerard Pampellonne RIP (K. Pampellonne)
Sun 20th	9.00am	Michael Sexton RIP (Sue & John Campbell)
Sun 20th	11:00am	David Faud RIP (Theresa Faud)
Mon 21st	9.00am	Charley Convery RIP (Potter & Bacon families)
Tues 22nd	9.00am	Nancy Hands 90th B’day Int’s (Pat & Margaret)
Wed 23rd	9.00am	Terry Weight RIP (Heavenly B’day) 9Lucy Weight)
Thur 24th	11.00am	John & Sharon Fitzmaurice 25th Wedding Anniversary)
Fri 25th	9.00am	Thomas More Haggar RIP (Helen & Bill Walsh)
Sat 26th	9.00am	Teresa Kane RIP (Anni) (Margaret Duffy)
		Confessions 11am – 12Noon or on demand Vigil Mass for Sunday. Confessions at 5.30pm
Sat 26th	6.00pm	People of the Parish
Sun 27th	9.00am	Vincent Brown RIP (Sue & John Campbell)
Sun 27th	11:00am	Mary Maher RIP (Walsh Family )

Please kindly put your Mass requests in early for anniversaries etc., this is to avoid any disappointment if a particular date has already been booked,

Parish Phone No: 0208 508 3492      Email: loughton@brcdt.org

The Brentwood Diocesan Trust     Registered Charity No. 234092

20th Sunday in Ordinary Time

First Reading : Isaiah 56:1,6-7

Thus says the Lord: Have a care for justice, act with integrity, for soon my salvation will come and my integrity be manifest.

  Foreigners who have attached themselves to the Lord to serve him and to love his name and be his servants – all who observe the sabbath, not profaning it, and cling to my covenant – these I will bring to my holy mountain. I will make them joyful in my house of prayer. Their holocausts and their sacrifices will be accepted on my altar, for my house will be called a house of prayer for all the peoples.

Responsive Psalm : Psalm 66(67):2-3,5-6,8

Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you.

O God, be gracious and bless us

  and let your face shed its light upon us.

So will your ways be known upon earth

  and all nations learn your saving help.

Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you.

Let the nations be glad and exult

  for you rule the world with justice.

With fairness you rule the peoples,

  you guide the nations on earth.

Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you.

Let the peoples praise you, O God;

  let all the peoples praise you.

May God still give us his blessing

  till the ends of the earth revere him.

Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you.

Second Reading : Romans 11:13-15,29-32

Let me tell you pagans this: I have been sent to the pagans as their apostle, and I am proud of being sent, but the purpose of it is to make my own people envious of you, and in this way save some of them. Since their rejection meant the reconciliation of the world, do you know what their admission will mean? Nothing less than a resurrection from the dead! God never takes back his gifts or revokes his choice.

  Just as you changed from being disobedient to God, and now enjoy mercy because of their disobedience, so those who are disobedient now – and only because of the mercy shown to you – will also enjoy mercy eventually. God has imprisoned all men in their own disobedience only to show mercy to all mankind.

Gospel : Matthew 15:21-28

Jesus left Gennesaret and withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. Then out came a Canaanite woman from that district and started shouting, ‘Sir, Son of David, take pity on me. My daughter is tormented by a devil.’ But he answered her not a word. And his disciples went and pleaded with him. ‘Give her what she wants,’ they said ‘because she is shouting after us.’ He said in reply, ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the House of Israel.’ But the woman had come up and was kneeling at his feet. ‘Lord,’ she said ‘help me.’ He replied, ‘It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the house-dogs.’ She retorted, ‘Ah yes, sir; but even house-dogs can eat the scraps that fall from their master’s table.’ Then Jesus answered her, ‘Woman, you have great faith. Let your wish be granted.’ And from that moment her daughter was well again.

Edmund of Canterbury & St. Thomas More

Dear Friends in Christ, Nineteenth Sunday of the Year

Both Jesus and Peter are recorded by the Gospel-writers Matthew, Mark and John as having walked on water. The idea that the law of gravity could be suspended for two human beings is truly an incredible miracle! Indeed, the image is so compelling that to this day if someone is revered or admired; we use the expression that ‘they can walk on water’. The supernatural phenomenon of walking on water is not unique to Christianity. In Greek mythology, the gods Horus & Orion both defied gravity in this way. The difference between these traditions and the Gospel accounts is that the latter are recorded not as stories but as history. When Matthew informs us that Jesus walked on water, he is reporting an actual event that took place on a certain date in history. 

In the Constitution on Divine Revelation Dei Verbum, the Second Vatican Council explains this important and profound truth by saying: ‘The sacred authors wrote the four Gospels, selecting some things from many which had been handed on by word of mouth or in writing, reducing some of them to a synthesis, explaining some things in view of the situation of their churches and preserving the form of proclamation but always in such fashion that they told us the honest truth about Jesus.’ If we approach the sacred text in this way, we open ourselves up to being taught, informed, and enlightened by the Holy Spirit about the meaning of this event in Jesus’ life.

Jesus’ walking on the water is a sign of Jesus’ Godhead and divinity. Only God can truly say: ‘Take courage! It is I, do not be afraid’, because only God can promise true and everlasting peace.

Fr John will be leaving St Edmund’s Parish on Wednesday 30th August,
to take up his new position as Dean at Brentwood Cathedral.
Please remember him in your prayers.

Dear Friends in Christ 19th Sunday of the Year 2023

THE ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY: HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION. Tuesday 15th August 2023. Mary, at the end of her natural life was assumed body and soul to heaven. The Dogma of the Assumption was proclaimed in 1950 by Pope Pius XII. It proclaimed the belief of the Universal Church that Mary, the Mother of God, having been chosen by God as that singular vessel of purity, brought forth Christ into the world, who, throughout the whole of her life, constantly remained faithful to God and her Son. Her freedom from the stain of Original Sin, won her the eternal reward of being Assumed by God, Body and Soul into heaven. There will be three masses today, 9am, 12.15pm & 7.30pm.

INSTALLATION AS DEAN: Fr John would like to invite you to his Installation as Dean of the Cathedral of St Mary & St Helen, Brentwood, Essex, on Friday 22nd September at 7.00pm. Bishop Alan Williams will install Fr John as Dean during the Installation Mass. You will all be most welcome.
Address: Brentwood Cathedral. Clergy House, Ingrave Rd, Brentwood, Essex. CM15 8AT

A REQUEST FOR SOME HELP: I would be sincerely grateful if anyone could give me hand during any of these following days to assist with the packing and parcelling up of my belongings, books etc. Also, on Tuesday 29th / Wednesday 30th August, I appeal for help in transporting all items (mainly boxes, no furniture) for removal downstairs, and ready for the Removals Company. Thanking you in anticipation!

It is customary for the outgoing Parish Priest to be invited back to his former parish for a thanksgiving celebration. I have been invited by Fr Adrian for a Mass of Thanksgiving on Sunday 1st October at the 11.00am Mass.  As I will actually be leaving before the resumption of the school academic year, and also many people will still be on holiday, it will be lovely to say a formal goodbye to the whole community on the 1st October; I trust you’ll be able to join me. I would like to thank Fr Adrian for this kind invitation. Fr Adrian has been invited back to Wanstead for his celebration by the new PP on Sunday 17th September at 6.30pm. 

My diary is already filling up with various meetings at the Cathedral Parish. Also, with the beginning of the new academic year at the same time as the move, there will also be various visits to the parish schools. There are four Catholic Schools in the Parish. I will continue my work with the Brentwood Diocesan Tribunal, which will now be on the doorstep, as the Cathedral Offices are next door to the Presbytery.

REQUIESCAT IN PACE: In your mercy, please pray for the repose of the soul of Olive Casserly (Mother of Claire McGeady) The Requiem Mass will be celebrated on Monday 14th August at 12.30pm at St Edmund’s followed by Cremation at Forst Park Crematorium at 2.00pm. We extend our condolences to Clarie and her family in this time of great loss.

SECRETARIAL HELP: I know your new Parish Priest Fr Adrian would like the assistance of a Parish Secretary for possibly three mornings a week commencing September. This will be a paid position. If you have any secretarial experience and are computer literate, please contact Fr John on email jjh152@btinternet.com who will forward your details to Fr Adrian.

PARISH HALL BOOKING SECRETARY: St Edmund‘s Parish Hall is looking for a new voluntary Parish Hall bookings secretary. All interested Parties please speak to Fr John or email jjh152@btinternet.com.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PROGRAMME 2023/24: The new First Holy Communion Programme will commence on Wednesday 13th September with a Parents’ Meeting at 7.30pm in the Parish Hall. (You will be able to purchase your child’s work book ‘I Belong’ £8.00). The children’s first class will take place on Sunday 17th September at 10.00am in the Parish Retreat. (This is the big meeting room above the Parish Hall). This is such an important time in your child’s life and this preparation for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and the Holy Eucharist is the next stage on their Faith Journey. Katheryn Poulter and Elena Manara are our First Holy Communion Catechists. We encourage all the children’s parents to be involved with the programme throughout the year. Please keep the children in your thoughts and prayers.

CONFIRMATION PROGRAMME: Just a short note to inform all our candidates for the Sacrament of Confirmation, that the Bishop’s Office will notify your new Parish Priest, Fr Adrian, when the Parish Visitation and Confirmation will take place next year 2024. Until then, we cannot give a specific date for starting the programme. Mark Anthony and several other parishioners are the Catechists for the preparation of the Sacrament. Also, please pray for all the Confirmation Candidates.

RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS: Journey of Faith. Is there anyone who may be interested in the RCIA Program, possibly with the view of being received into full communion with the Roman Catholic Faith? Every year we run this programme commencing at the beginning of September, leading to reception into the Church at the Easter Vigil. It is a systematic programme of every aspect of Catholicism, including Scripture, Sacramental Life, and The Dogma’s of our Faith, Catholic Practice & traditions, Christology & Mariology, Study of the Church. Please see Fr John or Aidan Potter who will explain the entire process to you.

CHARITY CHRISTMAS CONCERT AT ST EDMUND’S On the 16th December (7.30-9.30pm) the wonderful Winnie Greer, “science teacher by day Jazz singer by night” will be returning to St Edmund’s with her band for an evening of Christmas festive favourites in aid of The Essex based Helen Rollason Cancer Charity. A chance to enjoy some lovely music while raising money for a great cause and sharing a glass of mulled wine. Tickets are £20 each and available from the link below. If you book before 31st August there is an “early bird” rate of £15.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-evening-of-festive-favourites-in-aid-of-helen-rollason-cancer-charity-tickets-640159623667

NEWSLETTER ITEMS: To assist and help Fr Adrian when he arrives in the Parish, could you kindly submit any Newsletter items by Wednesday morning. The Newsletter tends to be put together on Thursday and printed Friday. Obviously late items will appear in the following week’s Newsletter. Thank you!
 

MASS INTENTIONS – AUGUST 2023

Sat 12th  
10.00am
Deacon Frank Westcott Int’s (Pat & Margaret)
    Confessions 11am – 12Noon or on demand

Vigil Mass for Sunday. Confessions at 5.30pm
Sat 12th
6.00pm
Pat McCreesh RIP (Sheehy Family)
Sun 13th
9.00am
Carmen Antaki RIP (B’day Anni) (Veronica & Steve Short)
Sun 13th
11:00am
People of the Parish
Mon 14th
12.30pm
REQUIEM MASS: Olive Casserly RIP
Tues 15th
9.00am
12.15pm
7.30pm
Paul Fleming Int’s (Marie Fleming)
Peter Smith RIP (Paul Falco)
Int’s for Fr John’s departure (Remy)
Wed 16th
9.00am
Olga Noguira B’day Int’s (Frank Westcott)
Thur 17th
9.00am
Ebun Scoh Int’s (Mary Ryan)
Fri 18th
9.00am
Maureen Kisley Int’s (Pat & Margaret)
Sat 19th
9.00am
Frances Jesse Perrett RIP
Confessions 11am – 12Noon or on demand
Vigil Mass for Sunday. Confessions at 5.30pm
Sat 19th
6.00pm Gerard Pampellonne RIP (K. Pampellonne)
Sun 20th
9.00am
Michael Sexton RIP (Sue & John Campbell)
Sun 20th
11:00am
David Faud RIP (Theresa Faud)
Please kindly put your Mass requests in early for anniversaries etc., this is to avoid any disappointment if a particular date has already been booked,
Parish Phone No: 0208 508 3492 Email: loughton@brcdt.org The Brentwood Diocesan Trust Registered Charity No. 234092

Edmund of Canterbury & St. Thomas More

Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord

Dear Friends in Christ,               Transfiguration of the Lord 2023

Jesus’ life was focused on one primary goal above all others – his cross. Once Peter had glimpsed by grace the revelation that Jesus was the Christ, the son of the Living God, the Lord ‘began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things… and be killed and on the third day be raised.’ Peter’s response was to protest that he would do everything he could to prevent such a thing happening – the Lord immediately identified the true source of Peter’s protestation and rebuked Satan. It was against this background that the Transfiguration took place on Mount Tabor. 

Jesus took Peter, James and John with him up the mountain. What we know is that they were the witnesses to a remarkable transformation in Jesus’ appearance and clothes and the amazing manifestation of Moses and Elijah alongside him. For the Apostles this was to be a significant moment in their lives and gives them a glimpse of Jesus’ future glory; but this glory would not be obtained without great suffering, namely the cross.  It was also a moment when God the Father, the Son and Spirit were all united in one great act of love, encouraging the Apostles, ‘This is my Son the beloved, listen to him.’ 

We are all invited into the life of God, who is Father Son and Spirit, by virtue of our Baptism. Let us recognise that sacred presence always within our being, and like the Apostles rejoice in the wondrous presence of the Lord, because it is only in the Lord that our transfiguration can take place.

Dear Friends in Christ         Transfiguration of the Lord

I managed to visit Brentwood Cathedral this week and had a look around and spoke to the clergy about the transition.  I will be leaving St Edmund’s Parish on Wednesday the 30^th August to take up residence in Brentwood. Fr Adrian will also arrive at St Edmund’s to take up residence. Obviously, this is an emotional time for me; after twenty-one years it will be hard to leave you all. As I mentioned before, half of my Priesthood has been spent here in Loughton. In fact, I have never lived anywhere as long as I have lived here in Loughton. 

It is usually customary for the Parish Priest to be invited back to his old parish for a thanksgiving celebration. I have been invited by Fr Adrian for a Mass of Thanksgiving on Sunday 1^st October at the 11.00am Mass.  As I will actually be leaving before the resumption of the school academic year, and also many people will be still on holiday, it will be really lovely to say a formal goodbye to the whole community on the 1^st October 2023, I hope you’ll be able to join me. I would like to thank Fr Adrian for this kind invitation. Fr Adrian has been invited back to Wanstead for his celebration by the new PP on Sunday 17^th September at 6.30pm. 

On the week commencing Monday 14^th August, I would be sincerely grateful if anyone could give me hand during any of those following days to help with the packing and parcelling up of my belongings, books etc.  Also, on Tuesday 29^th / Wednesday 30^th August, I appeal for help in transporting all items for removal downstairs, and ready for the Removals Company. Thanking you in anticipation

SECRETARIAL HELP: I know your new Parish Priest Fr Adrian would like the assistance of a Parish Secretary for possibly three mornings a week commencing September. This will be a paid position. If you have any secretarial experience and are computer literate, please contact Fr John on email jjh152@btinternet.com who will forward your details to Fr Adrian.

PARISH HALL BOOKING SECRETARY: St Edmund‘s Parish Hall is looking for a new voluntary Parish Hall bookings secretary. All interested Parties please speak to Fr John or email jjh152@btinternet.com.

God Bless You All, 

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PROGRAMME 2023/24: The new First Holy Communion Programme will commence on Wednesday 13^th September will a Parents’ Meeting at 7.30pm in the Parish Hall. The children’s first class will take place on Sunday 17^th September at 10.00am in the Parish Retreat. (This is the big meeting room above the Parish Hall). This is such an important time in your child’s life and this preparation for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and the Holy Eucharist is the next stage on their Faith Journey. Katheryn Poulter and Elena Manara are our First Holy Communion Catechists. We encourage all the children’s parents to be involved with the programme throughout the year. Please keep the children in your thoughts and prayers. 

CONFIRMATION PROGRAMME: Just a short note to inform all our candidates for the Sacrament of Confirmation, that the Bishop’s Office will notify your new Parish Priest, Fr Adrian, when the Parish Visitation and Confirmation will take place next year 2024. Until then, we cannot give a specific date for starting the programme. Mark Anthony and several other parishioners are the Catechists for the preparation of the Sacrament. Also, please pray for all the Confirmation Candidates.  

RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS: Journey of Faith. Is there anyone who may be interested in the RCIA Program, possibly with the view of being received into full communion with the Roman Catholic Faith? Every year we run this programme commencing at the beginning of September, leading to reception into the Church at the Easter Vigil. It is a systematic programme of every aspect of Catholicism, including Scripture, Sacramental Life, and The Dogma’s of our Faith, Catholic Practice & traditions, Christology & Mariology, Study of the Church. Please see Fr John or Aidan Potter who will explain the entire process to you.

ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY: The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SVP) is an international voluntary organization in the Catholic Church, founded in 1833 for the sanctification of its members by personal service of the poor. The St Vincent de Paul Society approaches each request for help with compassion and consideration for support tailored to the uniqueness of the individual and situation. I have been approached by a few members of the parish to re-establish the SVP here in our parish. If you are interested in joining a Parish SVP Conference, please speak to Fr John or Sharon Fitzmaurice. Thank you!  More information later. 

CONTEMPORARY MUSIC GROUP: For our next 11am Mass on Sunday, 6th August. Please make every effort to come to the Mass – it will be our group’s  last Mass celebrated by Fr. John before he leaves our Parish and we want to make it special. Please pass the word around to all our singers as we would like a very good turnout! We would also warmly welcome more new singers and their families who may like to join us – simply come along! Thank you very much.

CHARITY CHRISTMAS CONCERT AT ST EDMUND’S On the 16th December (7.30-9.30pm) the wonderful Winnie Greer, “science teacher by day Jazz singer by night” will be returning to St Edmund’s with her band for an evening of Christmas festive favourites in aid of The Essex based Helen Rollason Cancer Charity. A chance to enjoy some lovely music while raising money for a great cause and sharing a glass of mulled wine. Tickets are £20 each and available from the link below. If you book before 31st August there is an “early bird” rate of £15.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/an-evening-of-festive-favourites-in-aid-of-helen-rollason-cancer-charity-tickets-640159623667

PARISH NEWLTTER: If you would like to receive the Parish Newsletter via Email each week, please contact Iain McLay iain.m.mclay@googlemail.com this gives and extended version of the Weekly bulletin

MASS INTENTIONS: There is a lot of availability in the Parish Mass register. If anyone wants a mass intention for any reason, Anniversaries, birthdays, special occasions, for anyone who is sick, please complete the Mass Envelope in the porch and leave off at the presbytery. 

REGISTERING AT THE PARISH: It’s always important to have details of all our parishioners. There are Parish Registration Forms in the Porch of the Church. Please complete and return to the Presbytery.

REQUIESCAT IN PACE:  In your mercy, please pray for the repose of the soul of Olive Casserly (Mother of Claire McGeady) who passed away recently aged 84 years.  The Requiem Mass will be celebrated on Monday 14^th August at 12.30pm at St Edmund’s followed by Cremation at Forst Park Crematorium at 2.00pm. We extend our condolences to Clarie and her family in this time of great loss. 

MASS INTENTIONS –  AUGUST 2023

Sat 5th	10.00am	Nancy & Fred Burgess RIP
		Confessions 11am – 12Noon or on demandVigil Mass for Sunday. Confessions at 5.30pm
Sat 5th	6.00pm	Brian & Paul Street RIP (Street Family)
Sun 6th	9.00am	Jim Sullivan RIP (Celina Sullivan)
Sun 6th	11:00am	Deacon Frank Westcott’s Int’s (M Ryan)
Mon 7th	9.00am	Communion Service
Tues 8th August	9.00am	Communion Service
Wed 9th	9.00am	Communion Service
Thur 10th	9.00am	Communion Service
Fri 11th	9.00am	Communion Service
Sat 12th	9.00am	Deacon Frank Westcott Int’s (Pat & Margaret)
		Confessions 11am – 12Noon or on demandVigil Mass for Sunday. Confessions at 5.30pm
Sat 12th	6.00pm	Pat McCreesh RIP (Sheehy Family)
Sun 13th	9.00am	Carmen Antaki RIP (B’day Anni)  (Veronica & Steve Short)
Sun 13th	11:00am	People of the Parish

Please kindly put your Mass requests in early for anniversaries etc., this is to avoid any disappointment if a particular date has already been booked, 

Parish Phone No: 0208 508 3492      Email: loughton@brcdt.org

The Brentwood Diocesan Trust     Registered Charity No. 234092

The Transfiguration of the Lord – Feast

First Reading : Daniel 7:9-10,13-14

As I watched:

Thrones were set in place

and one of great age took his seat.

His robe was white as snow,

the hair of his head as pure as wool.

His throne was a blaze of flames,

its wheels were a burning fire.

A stream of fire poured out,

issuing from his presence.

A thousand thousand waited on him,

ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him.

A court was held

and the books were opened.

I gazed into the visions of the night.

And I saw, coming on the clouds of heaven,

one like a son of man.

He came to the one of great age

and was led into his presence.

On him was conferred sovereignty,

glory and kingship,

and men of all peoples, nations and languages became his servants.

His sovereignty is an eternal sovereignty

which shall never pass away,

nor will his empire ever be destroyed

Responsive Psalm : Psalm 96(97):1-2,5-6,9

The Lord is king, most high above all the earth.

The Lord is king, let earth rejoice,

  let all the coastlands be glad.

Cloud and darkness are his raiment;

  his throne, justice and right.

The Lord is king, most high above all the earth.

The mountains melt like wax

  before the Lord of all the earth.

The skies proclaim his justice;

  all peoples see his glory.

The Lord is king, most high above all the earth.

For you indeed are the Lord

  most high above all the earth,

  exalted far above all spirits.

The Lord is king, most high above all the earth.

Second Reading : 2 Peter 1:16-19

It was not any cleverly invented myths that we were repeating when we brought you the knowledge of the power and the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ; we had seen his majesty for ourselves. He was honoured and glorified by God the Father, when the Sublime Glory itself spoke to him and said, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved; he enjoys my favour.’ We heard this ourselves, spoken from heaven, when we were with him on the holy mountain.

  So we have confirmation of what was said in prophecies; and you will be right to depend on prophecy and take it as a lamp for lighting a way through the dark until the dawn comes and the morning star rises in your minds.

Gospel : Matthew 17:1-9

Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain where they could be alone. There in their presence he was transfigured: his face shone like the sun and his clothes became as white as the light. Suddenly Moses and Elijah appeared to them; they were talking with him. Then Peter spoke to Jesus. ‘Lord,’ he said ‘it is wonderful for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.’ He was still speaking when suddenly a bright cloud covered them with shadow, and from the cloud there came a voice which said, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved; he enjoys my favour. Listen to him.’ When they heard this the disciples fell on their faces, overcome with fear. But Jesus came up and touched them. ‘Stand up,’ he said ‘do not be afraid.’ And when they raised their eyes they saw no one but only Jesus.

  As they came down from the mountain Jesus gave them this order, ‘Tell no one about the vision until the Son of Man has risen from the dead.’