St Edmund of Canterbury, Loughton

Weekday Masses: 6th July Monday 9:30am Mass
7th July Tuesday 9:00am Mass
8th July Wednesday 9:30am Mass
9th July Thursday 9:30am Mass
10th July Friday 9:30am Mass
12th July Sunday 3:00pm Divine Mercy Devotions
Fr. Adrian on Holiday
Whilst Fr. Adrian is away, we are delighted to welcome Fr. Christopher Clohessy, who has kindly agreed to look after the parish during his absence. Fr. Christopher is a priest from South Africa and is currently teaching in Rome. Fr. Adrian is very grateful to him for providing this ministry and asks that we extend to him the warm welcome and hospitality for which our parish is so well known.

Ordination of Reverend Andre Illes
Please pray for the Reverend Andre Illes who was ordained priest on Saturday this weekend (4 July) at Brentwood Cathedral. We pray that the Lord will strengthen and guide him in his future ministry.

Birthday Celebrations Save the Date!
Our parish was founded 100 years ago this year, and we are planning a Mass and social event to celebrate on Sunday 13 September 2026. Please save the date for a beautiful celebration of our parish and all that means as a place of faith and community.

First Holy Communion Programme Registration Forms
One of the most important things we learn as disciples of Jesus is that he calls each of us into a deep and loving friendship with him. One of the greatest gifts he gives us to nurture and strengthen that friendship is the Eucharist, where we receive Him in Holy Communion. In our parish we begin preparing children for this special sacrament in Year 4 (ages 8–9), helping them to grow in their understanding of God’s love and in their relationship with Jesus.

Registration forms for our First Holy Communion programme are now available at the back of the Church for children in Year 4 and above (minimum age 8). The closing date for applications is
30 September 2026. Please take a registration form and return it to the parish office by this date.
We ask that you also provide a copy of your child’s baptism certificate when submitting the form.

There will be a meeting for parents in November, and our formation sessions will begin during Advent as we journey together towards this important milestone in your child’s faith. We are very much looking forward to accompanying our children and families through this year’s programme as we help guide our young people in growing closer to the Lord. Over the coming months, we encourage you to begin talking with your children about Jesus’ presence in the Eucharist and what it means to receive him in Holy Communion. It can also be a wonderful opportunity to share your own memories of your First Holy Communion and reflect together on what the Eucharist means in your own life of faith.

If you have any questions, then please contact Fr. Adrian.
St Edmund Life Group- Supporting life from conception to natural death.
Any questions, please ring Paul 07456 405221 The Group Patron is Our Lady of Guadalupe

2nd Collection: There will be a second collection on the weekend of 11th & 12th July for
Sea Sunday -Stella Maris to support the seafarers, fishers and their families.

Note for Contemporary Music Group-(Please Note Change of Date)
Kindly note that, as two of our musicians are now not able to make our 5th July Mass, we’ve switched our Mass to the following Sunday 12th July. Sue has kindly agreed to switch with us, and our Parish choir will cover the 5th of July Mass.
We are looking for new young singers to consider joining our friendly group – simply come up to the choir loft on the 12th of July before Mass starts and you’ll be made very welcome!

Lifts To Mass: The SVP would like to hear from parishioners who might need a lift to Mass. If you call/voice message the office 02085083492, or email: Loughton@brcdt.org, and leave your details, the SVP will try and help.

Food in Church
Many parents bring a small snack to Mass for their children. This is absolutely fine, but please clear up any food that may be dropped before leaving the church. Last Sunday, I picked up various piles of crisps, cereal and fruit from the floor. Please remember we do our best to keep our church as clean as possible to honour Our Lord and to respect each other. If you are unable to pick up anything that has been dropped or spilt, then please let a steward or myself know after Mass. Thank you, Fr. Adrian

Applying for a Job? Fr. Adrian receives a number of reference requests for parishioners who are applying for work positions. He is always pleased to provide a reference, but it would be helpful if anyone who is applying for a post could make an appointment to speak with him about the position before giving his name. Many reference requests ask for details of weekly Mass attendance so
Fr. Adrian will need to verify this with applicants before he can complete the reference.
Many thanks.

Parish Administrator Notice:
Please could I kindly ask the 4 x Parishioners whose children’s Baptismal Certificates I currently have at the Parish office to come and collect. Please see Fr Adrian or collect from the Parish office.
Thank you very much. Lisa -Parish Administrator

CAFOD – Venezuela Earthquake Appeal
Our thoughts and prayers are with all the people of Venezuela after the two devastating earthquakes near Caracas. Please visit the CAFOD website at cafod.org.uk if you would like to donate online to help the survivors of this crisis with emergency water, food and shelter.

Please Pray for those who are Sick:
Evelyn Bearne, Robert Bearne, Karl Britz, Brenda Bryant, Bernadette Hall, Ann Hawkes, Claire Howes, Angela Long, Lilian Mothersole, John McKernan, Remy, Geraldine Taylor, James Wright, Pamela Gibson, Geraldine Stains, Linda Moriarty, Victoria Leahy, Jean Collins, Barbara Searl, Lyn Povey, Mason Family, Ben Lewis, Adam Piotrowski, Bernard Hughes, Brian Carter and all our loved ones who are unwell.

JOB VACANCIES

Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Multi Academy Trust

The Trustees of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Multi Academy Trust wish to appoint for the following vacancies within the Trust.

Position
Closing Date
School
Interview Date
Starting Date
Site Manager (Full-Time 37 hpw)
Monday 13th July 2026
St John Fisher Catholic Primary School, Loughton
TBC
ASAP
Learning Support Assistant (Apprenticeship qualification will also be considered)
Monday 13th July 2026
St John Fisher Catholic Primary School, Loughton
TBC
September 2026

In Cases of Emergency
If there is no answer from the parish phone and you are seeking a priest in an emergency, please call one of the local parishes, either in Epping Phone: 01992 572516, or the St. Thomas of Canterbury Friary at Woodford Green Phone: 020 8504 1688.

Emergency In the Church
Please follow instructions given by The Priest and/or Stewards.
For fires at the back of the church, we will exit via the sacristy into the hall or side exit.
For fires at the front of the church, we will exit by front doors.
For fires in the middle of the church use the safest exit.
Fire extinguishers are to be used by competent trained persons only
Mass Intentions are listed on the website, Back of the Church notice board, and in the outside display case

Weekday Masses:   29th    June   Monday           9:00am Mass  

                                  30th     June  Tuesday           No Mass 

                                  1st       July   Wednesday      9:30am Mass 

        2nd      July   Thursday         9:30am Mass      

        3rd      July    Friday             9:30am Mass

Birthday Celebrations Save the Date!

Our parish was founded 100 years ago this year, and we are planning a Mass and social event to celebrate on Sunday 13 September 2026. Please save the date for a beautiful celebration of our parish and all that means as a place of faith and community.

2nd Collection 

There will be a 2nd Collection for Peter’s Pence- Feast of St Peter & St Paul after all the masses this weekend. 

Note for Contemporary Music Group-(Please Note Change of Date) 

Kindly note that, as two of our musicians are now not able to make our 5th July Mass, we’ve switched our Mass to the following Sunday, 12th July. Sue has kindly agreed to switch with us, and our Parish choir will cover the 5th July Mass. Our practice next Monday, 29th June goes ahead as planned.

Sorry for this change and hope you can all make the 12th July (and the practice of course!)

Thanks

We are looking for new young singers to consider joining our friendly group – simply come up to the choir loft on the 12th of July before Mass starts and you’ll be made very welcome!

Food in Church

Many parents bring a small snack to Mass for their children. This is absolutely fine, but please clear up any food that may be dropped before leaving the church. Last Sunday, I picked up various piles of crisps, cereal and fruit from the floor. Please remember we do our best to keep our church as clean as possible to honour Our Lord and to respect each other. If you are unable to pick up anything that has been dropped or spilt, then please let a steward or myself know after Mass. Thank you, Fr. Adrian

Celebrating 50 Years of Trinity Catholic High School 

This year marks a very special milestone as Trinity Catholic High School celebrates its 50th anniversary. To mark the occasion, a Festival Day will be held at Whitbreads Sports Ground in Woodford on Saturday 4th July, 4pm-10:30pm. Everyone in the parish is warmly invited to this celebration of the school and the generations of wonderful young people who have been shaped by Trinity’s Catholic ethos and education. There will be something for all ages to enjoy: Live music, inflatables, BBQ, stalls, family entertainment and spectacular fireworks display. Tickets are available on the day (adults £8, children £6) or online https://pay.collctiv.com/trinity-fest-4th-july-2026-34499

Notice from Parish Administrator

Please could I kindly ask the 4 x Parishioners whose children’s Baptismal Certificates I currently have at the Parish office to come and collect. Please see Fr Adrian or collect from the Parish office. 

Thank you very much. Lisa -Parish Administrator

Ride & Stride’s 75th Anniversary Year  

Could you take part in this event to raise money to help your own church and others?

The Friends of Essex Churches Trust strive to raise money to award grants to preserve and improve Christian places of worship of all denominations in Essex, Southend, Thurrock, Barking and Dagenham, Havering, Newham, Redbridge and Waltham Forest.

Open to all from keen cyclists, hikers, families with young children, teenagers, the elderly and more, the event takes place on Saturday 12th September 2026 9am-5pm and is an opportunity to visit some of England’s most rare and unusual places of worship. Half of any money you raise through sponsorship is returned to your church, and half goes into the main fund. And if you don’t walk or ride, there are many other ideas for fundraising on this website: 

www.friendsofessexchurches.org.uk/ride-stride

BCYS Youth Mass
The next Youth Mass will take place at Brentwood Cathedral on Thursday  2nd July. It is open to any young people from around the Diocese to enjoy pizza, prayer, workshops and celebrate Mass together! For more information, please visit www.bcys.net/events 

Applying for a Job?  Fr. Adrian receives a number of reference requests for parishioners who are applying for work positions. He is always pleased to provide a reference, but it would be helpful if anyone who is applying for a post could make an appointment to speak with him about the position before giving his name. Many reference requests ask for details of weekly Mass attendance so 

Fr. Adrian will need to verify this with applicants before he can complete the reference. 

Many thanks.

Baptisms

If you are parents of new infants and you wish to have your child baptised, please can you kindly contact your parish priest Fr Adrian Lowe 0208 5083492 as soon as possible regarding the Baptism of your child at St Edmund’s. For first time parents there is a Baptismal Programme run by Mrs Sharon Chalk. Baptisms take place on Saturdays at 12.30pm.

St Edmund Life Group

Supporting life from conception to natural death. Any questions, please ring Paul 07465 405221.

The group patron is Our Lady of Guadalupe

Please Pray for those who are Sick: 

Evelyn Bearne, Robert Bearne, Karl Britz, Brenda Bryant, Bernadette Hall, Ann Hawkes, Claire Howes, Angela Long, Lilian Mothersole, John McKernan, Remy, Geraldine Taylor, James Wright, Pamela Gibson, Geraldine Stains, Linda Moriarty, Victoria Leahy, Jean Collins, Barbara Searl, Lyn Povey, Mason Family, Ben Lewis, Adam Piotrowski, Bernard Hughes, Brian Carter and all our loved ones who are unwell.

In Cases of Emergency

If there is no answer from the parish phone and you are seeking a priest in an emergency, please call one of the local parishes, either in Epping Phone: 01992 572516, or the St. Thomas of Canterbury Friary at Woodford Green Phone: 020 8504 1688.

Emergency In the Church

Please follow instructions given by The Priest and/or Stewards.

For fires at the back of the church, we will exit via the sacristy into the hall or side exit.

For fires at the front of the church, we will exit by front doors.

For fires in the middle of the church use the safest exit.

Fire extinguishers are to be used by competent trained persons only

Mass Intentions are listed on the website, Back of the Church notice board, and in the outside display case

Job Vacancies

Trinity Catholic High School    

• Teacher of Science F/T or P/T, Permanent, Sept 26
• Teacher of RE, F/T, Permanent, Sept 26
• HoD Psychology and Sociology, F/T, Permanent, Sept 26

Deputy Director of Education – Cathedral House

A vacancy has arisen for a Deputy Director of Education to join the Education Department at Cathedral House, Brentwood.

The position is a permanent full-time role, working term time only plus five days.

The start date for the role will be around January 2027 or earlier.

The Diocese serves a network of 90 schools: comprising 72 primary and 18 secondary schools, providing for the formation and educational needs of some 40,000 children and young people.

The role of Deputy Director of Education is an inspiring, rewarding and fulfilling position.

The successful candidate will join a dedicated and committed team at a significant time for the education sector, for Catholic education nationally, and for the schools and colleges across our own Diocese as we look to serve Bishop Alan and the mission of our Church with Christ as the foundation of our entire educational enterprise.

As Deputy Director you will be expected to establish good relationships with each authority as well as engaging with the Regional Director, DfE, and Ofsted so that our schools and their staff are well served.

The role offers the opportunity to utilise your existing skills, gifts and talents in new and innovative ways as we look to preserve and protect our distinctive educational heritage and history whilst forming and co-constructing an authentically Catholic educational landscape for the future.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Extensive leadership experience in an education context, at Headteacher/Deputy level in school/academy/diocesan leadership or local authority/SIP setting.
• A strong grasp of current educational issues (including CMATs’ evolving role within the parish, diocese and local community)
• A deep knowledge and understanding of Catholic education as structured in this country.

A requirement of the post is that applicants must be practising Catholics.

If you would like to apply for this role please forward your CV to hr@brcdt.org.

Closing date: Monday 29 June at 5 pm; interviews will be carried out in July.

Walsingham House Manager

Vacancy:  To ensure the smooth and efficient running of Walsingham House at Abbotswick, as an inspiring, faith-filled retreat house welcoming over 5,000 young people each year. Specific responsibilities include leading retreats, and leading and training the volunteer community. The post holder also has overall responsibility for Safeguarding and (together with the Site Manager) Health and Safety.

Location- Walsingham House at Abbotswick, with travel to retreat locations and BCYS events, as needed.

Hours- 35 hours per week- including significant evening and weekend work

Start Date- Ideally September 2026/autumn term

Salary- £30 – 32K depending on prior experience (ideally this is a “live in” role, with a one-bedroom flat provided, however it is not essential). 

Contract: 3-year fixed term contract

The closing date for applications is midday Tuesday 7th July 2026  (suitable applicants to interview in the week commencing 13th July 2026). 

St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Upminster

Are you ready to lead a joyful, ambitious Catholic school community where children are known, loved and inspired to flourish?

The governors of St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Upminster, are seeking to appoint an inspirational, practising Catholic Head Teacher to lead our happy and welcoming two-form-entry school from January 2027. Rooted in Gospel values and with Christ at the centre, St Joseph’s is a school with strong foundations, delightful children, dedicated staff, supportive families and an ambitious governing body.

This is a wonderful opportunity for a visible, faith-filled and values-led leader to build on all that is already strong, while shaping the next stage of our school’s journey with confidence, warmth and vision.

HEADTEACHER

CLOSING DATE 5PM ON 2ND SEPTEMBER 2026

Vacancies

Weekday Masses:   22nd   June   Monday           9:30am Mass  

                                  23rd    June   Tuesday           No Mass 

                                  24th    June   Wednesday      9:30am Mass 

        25th    June   Thursday         9:30am Mass  Church Clean following Mass    

        26th    June   Friday              9:30am Mass

Birthday Celebrations Save the Date!

Our parish was founded 100 years ago this year, and we are planning a Mass and social event to celebrate on Sunday 13 September 2026. Please save the date for a beautiful celebration of our parish and all that means as a place of faith and community.

Day for Life 2026 -2nd Collection after all the Masses this Weekend   

On Sunday, 21 June, we mark the Day for Life under the theme “The Wonder of the Child in the Womb.” The theme also recognises the loss of children who died before birth and the grief of their parents. The bishops’ message and prayers can be found on the Day for Life website: www.dayforlife.org. The second collection will go towards the Day for Life Fund, which distributes grants to organisations that promote respect for life from conception until natural death. 

You can also donate online via the Day for Life website.

Church Clean 

There will be a church clean on Thursday 25th June after the morning mass. 

Please come along and help if you are able. Thank you, Sharon

Contemporary Music Group

We are next singing and playing at the 11am Mass on Sunday, 5th July and holding a practice beforehand 7 to 8pm on Monday, 29th June. Hopefully many of you will be able to make the practice as well as the Mass; we’ll have a new psalm as well as the hymns to run through, so please do try to be there. Thanks. 

We are looking for new young singers to consider joining our friendly group – simply come up to the choir loft on the 5th of July before Mass starts and you’ll be made very welcome!

Food in Church

Many parents bring a small snack to Mass for their children. This is absolutely fine, but please clear up any food that may be dropped before leaving the church. Last Sunday, I picked up various piles of crisps, cereal and fruit from the floor. Please remember we do our best to keep our church as clean as possible to honour Our Lord and to respect each other. If you are unable to pick up anything that has been dropped or spilt, then please let a steward or myself know after Mass. Thank you, Fr. Adrian

Notice from Parish Administrator

Please could I kindly ask the 4 x Parishioners whose children’s Baptismal Certificates I currently have at the Parish office to come and collect. Please see Fr Adrian or collect from the Parish office. 

Thank you very much. Lisa -Parish Administrator

Celebrating 50 Years of Trinity Catholic High School 

This year marks a very special milestone as Trinity Catholic High School celebrates its 50th anniversary. To mark the occasion, a Festival Day will be held at Whitbreads Sports Ground in Woodford on Saturday 4th July, 4pm-10:30pm. Everyone in the parish is warmly invited to this celebration of the school and the generations of wonderful young people who have been shaped by Trinity’s Catholic ethos and education. There will be something for all ages to enjoy: Live music, inflatables, BBQ, stalls, family entertainment and spectacular fireworks display. Tickets are available on the day (adults £8, children £6) or online https://pay.collctiv.com/trinity-fest-4th-july-2026-34499

“Awake London” A Catholic Bible convention and Healing ministry on Saturday 20th June 2026 from 12.30 pm to 4.45 pm led by Rev.Fr.Jude Kurumeh CSSp and Anointing Fire Catholic Ministry UK at Catholic Parish of Christ The King, 455 Chingford Road London,E4 8SP. Convention includes: Praise and Worship, Holy Mass, confession, Healing service and Eucharistic Adoration, spiritual sharing, sessions for children  (www.afcmuk.org). Free car parking available.

Ride & Stride’s 75th Anniversary Year  

Could you take part in this event to raise money to help your own church and others?

The Friends of Essex Churches Trust strive to raise money to award grants to preserve and improve Christian places of worship of all denominations in Essex, Southend, Thurrock, Barking and Dagenham, Havering, Newham, Redbridge and Waltham Forest.

Open to all from keen cyclists, hikers, families with young children, teenagers, the elderly and more, the event takes place on Saturday 12th September 2026 9am-5pm and is an opportunity to visit some of England’s most rare and unusual places of worship. Half of any money you raise through sponsorship is returned to your church, and half goes into the main fund. And if you don’t walk or ride, there are many other ideas for fundraising on this website: 

www.friendsofessexchurches.org.uk/ride-stride

Baptisms

If you are parents of new infants and you wish to have your child baptised, please can you kindly contact your parish priest Fr Adrian Lowe 0208 5083492 as soon as possible regarding the Baptism of your child at St Edmund’s. For first time parents there is a Baptismal Programme run by Mrs Sharon Chalk. Baptisms take place on Saturdays at 12.30pm.

There will be a 2nd Collection for Peter’s Pence- Feast of St Peter & St Paul after all the masses on the weekend of 27th & 28th June 2026.

Please Pray for those who are Sick: 

Evelyn Bearne, Robert Bearne, Karl Britz, Brenda Bryant, Bernadette Hall, Ann Hawkes, Claire Howes, Angela Long, Lilian Mothersole, John McKernan, Remy, Geraldine Taylor, James Wright, Pamela Gibson, Geraldine Stains, Linda Moriarty, Victoria Leahy, Jean Collins, Barbara Searl, Lyn Povey, Mason Family, Ben Lewis, Adam Piotrowski, Bernard Hughes, Brian Carter and all our loved ones who are unwell.

Job Vacancies

Trinity Catholic High School    

• Teacher of Science F/T or P/T, Permanent, Sept 26
• Teacher of RE, F/T, Permanent, Sept 26
• HoD Psychology and Sociology, F/T, Permanent, Sept 26

Diocesan Education Leadership Opportunities

Headteacher – St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Chingford
Deadline for application: 09:00 am Friday 26th June 2026

Deputy Director of Education – Cathedral House

A vacancy has arisen for a Deputy Director of Education to join the Education Department at Cathedral House, Brentwood.

The position is a permanent full-time role, working term time only plus five days.

The start date for the role will be around January 2027 or earlier.

The Diocese serves a network of 90 schools: comprising 72 primary and 18 secondary schools, providing for the formation and educational needs of some 40,000 children and young people.

The role of Deputy Director of Education is an inspiring, rewarding and fulfilling position.

The successful candidate will join a dedicated and committed team at a significant time for the education sector, for Catholic education nationally, and for the schools and colleges across our own Diocese as we look to serve Bishop Alan and the mission of our Church with Christ as the foundation of our entire educational enterprise.

As Deputy Director you will be expected to establish good relationships with each authority as well as engaging with the Regional Director, DfE, and Ofsted so that our schools and their staff are well served.

The role offers the opportunity to utilise your existing skills, gifts and talents in new and innovative ways as we look to preserve and protect our distinctive educational heritage and history whilst forming and co-constructing an authentically Catholic educational landscape for the future.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Extensive leadership experience in an education context, at Headteacher/Deputy level in school/academy/diocesan leadership or local authority/SIP setting.
• A strong grasp of current educational issues (including CMATs’ evolving role within the parish, diocese and local community)
• A deep knowledge and understanding of Catholic education as structured in this country.

A requirement of the post is that applicants must be practising Catholics.

If you would like to apply for this role please forward your CV to hr@brcdt.org.

Closing date: Monday 29 June at 5 pm; interviews will be carried out in July.

Walsingham House Manager

Vacancy:  To ensure the smooth and efficient running of Walsingham House at Abbotswick, as an inspiring, faith-filled retreat house welcoming over 5,000 young people each year. Specific responsibilities include leading retreats, and leading and training the volunteer community. The post holder also has overall responsibility for Safeguarding and (together with the Site Manager) Health and Safety.

Location- Walsingham House at Abbotswick, with travel to retreat locations and BCYS events, as needed.

Hours- 35 hours per week- including significant evening and weekend work

Start Date- Ideally September 2026/autumn term

Salary- £30 – 32K depending on prior experience (ideally this is a “live in” role, with a one bedroom flat provided, however it is not essential). 

Contract: 3-year fixed term contract

The closing date for applications is midday Tuesday 7th July 2026  (suitable applicants to interview in the week commencing 13th July 2026). 

In Cases of Emergency

If there is no answer from the parish phone and you are seeking a priest in an emergency, please call one of the local parishes, either in Epping Phone: 01992 572516, or the St. Thomas of Canterbury Friary at Woodford Green Phone: 020 8504 1688.

Emergency In the Church

Please follow instructions given by The Priest and/or Stewards.

For fires at the back of the church, we will exit via the sacristy into the hall or side exit.

For fires at the front of the church, we will exit by front doors.

For fires in the middle of the church use the safest exit.

Fire extinguishers are to be used by competent trained persons only

Mass Intentions are listed on the website, Back of the Church notice board, and in the outside display case

Weekday Masses:   15th   June   Monday         9:30am Mass  

                                  16th   June   Tuesday          No Mass 

                                  17th June   Wednesday      9:30am Mass 

                                  18th June   Thursday         9:30am Mass   

                                  19th  June  Friday              9:30am Mass

Celebrating 50 Years of Trinity Catholic High School 

This year marks a very special milestone as Trinity Catholic High School celebrates its 50th anniversary. To mark the occasion, a Festival Day will be held at Whitbreads Sports Ground in Woodford on Saturday 4th July, 4pm-10:30pm. Everyone in the parish is warmly invited to this celebration of the school and the generations of wonderful young people who have been shaped by Trinity’s Catholic ethos and education. There will be something for all ages to enjoy: Live music, inflatables, BBQ, stalls, family entertainment and spectacular fireworks display. Tickets are available on the day (adults £8, children £6) or online https://pay.collctiv.com/trinity-fest-4th-july-2026-34499

Gift Aid – End of Tax Year Statements

If you are a member of the Gift Aid scheme and provided an email address, you will have received your statement by email. If we do not hold an email address for you, please check the envelopes at the back of the church. If you can share an email address, that would help reduce the effort and cost of generating the statements. If there are any discrepancies in your statement or you have not received an email or envelope, please let Abbie know via email at giftaid-loughton@brcdt.org or by text/phone call to 07754700934 including your gift aid number. 

Grays Parish, St Thomas of Canterbury 

In October this year St. Thomas’ Church and school here in Grays St Thomas of Canterbury will be celebrating 140 years of serving the community. We are inviting people to come along for Mass with the Bishop on the 10th October at 5:00pm. If you have images or memories that you would like to share, please them to send them to the parish at grays@brcdt.org  Yours in Christ, Canon Stephen

St John Bosco Children’s Camp, summer 2026 – places filling fast. Applications are open for children currently in school year 5 – 7 (i.e. aged 9-12 in August 2026) to spend a week at camp.

 25th July – 1st August or 1st – 8th August. Activities include archery, fishing, AquaPark visit, football, kayaking and much more. The camp is especially for children who may not otherwise have a summer holiday. Suggested donation £200, but full bursaries are available. All application details and full information are at www.boscocamp.co.uk. Places are going quickly – you are encouraged to apply this week. 

“AW

AWAKE LONDON” A Catholic Bible convention and Healing ministry on Saturday 20th June  2026 from 12.30 pm to 4.45 pm led by Rev.Fr.Jude Kurumeh CSSp and Anointing Fire Catholic Ministry UK at Catholic Parish of Christ The King, 455 Chingford Road London,E4 8SP. Convention includes: Praise and Worship, Holy Mass, confession, Healing service and Eucharistic Adoration, spiritual sharing, sessions for children  (www.afcmuk.org). Free car parking available.

Day for Life 2026

On Sunday, 21 June, we mark the Day for Life under the theme “The Wonder of the Child in the Womb.” The theme also recognises the loss of children who died before birth and the grief of their parents. The bishops’ message and prayers can be found on the Day for Life website: www.dayforlife.org. The second collection will go towards the Day for Life Fund, which distributes grants to organisations that promote respect for life from conception until natural death. 

You can also donate online via the Day for Life website.”

St Edmund Life Group

Supporting life from conception to natural death. Any questions, please ring Paul 07465 405221.

The group patron is Our Lady of Guadalupe

Please Pray for those who are Sick: 

Evelyn Bearne, Robert Bearne, Karl Britz, Brenda Bryant, Bernadette Hall, Ann Hawkes, Claire Howes, Angela Long, Lilian Mothersole, John McKernan, Remy, Geraldine Taylor, James Wright, Pamela Gibson, Geraldine Stains, Linda Moriarty, Victoria Leahy, Jean Collins, Barbara Searl, Lyn Povey, Mason Family, Ben Lewis, Adam Piotrowski, Bernard Hughes, Brian Carter and all our loved ones who are unwell.

Vacancies

Trinity Catholic High School    

• Teacher of Science F/T or P/T, Permanent, Sept 26
• Teacher of RE, F/T, Permanent, Sept 26
• HoD Psychology and Sociology, F/T, Permanent, Sept 26

 Diocesan Education Leadership Opportunities

Headteacher – Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School & Nursery, Southend-on-Sea
Deadline for application: 09:00 Wednesday 17th June 2026

Headteacher – St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Chingford
Deadline for application: 09:00 am Friday 26th June 2026

Deputy Director of Education – Diocese of Brentwood
Deadline for applications: 5pm, Monday 29th June 2026

Weekday Masses:  8th   June   Monday           9:30am Mass  

                                 9th   June   Tuesday            No Mass 

                                 10th June   Wednesday      9:30am Mass 

                                 11th June   Thursday         9:30am Mass   

                                 12th  June  Friday              9:30am Mass

Sick & Retired Clergy Fund- 2nd Collection this weekend

This weekend there will be the annual collection for the Sick & Retired Clergy Fund of the Diocese. Donations can be made in the 2nd Collection, online via the Diocesan Website or using any available Contactless devices, selecting the second collection option, (if applicable).

The fund helps Clergy who require assistance in their retirement after years of service, it also helps those who are in ill health at any age. This is also an opportunity to thank parishioners who have bequeathed legacies in their wills and we would welcome any who are about to make, or review existing arrangements, to consider this worthy cause.

The Administrators of the fund would also like to express their gratitude to the families of deceased parishioners who have gifted legacies in the past.

Seniors’ Afternoon Tea Party

On Friday 19 June, students at Trinity Catholic High School are hosting an Afternoon Tea Party for the elderly in our local community. They are working on a project that targets loneliness and isolation among the elderly and would very much like to bring our communities together to bridge the generations. They will be serving finger sandwiches, a selection of cakes, and a Cornish Cream Tea, along with a glass of Prosecco and teas and coffees. There will also be music, a free prize draw, and a fun quiz. If you would like to attend, please see the following details: 

Date:      Friday 19 June

Venue:    Ratcliffe Hall, Trinity Catholic High School, Mornington Road,Woodford Green IG8 0TP

Time:      2.30-5.30 pm

RSVP:     By Friday 12 June to Mrs Nicola Anthony 

                    Tel: 020 8504 3419

                    Email: nanthony@tchs.org.uk  

Gift Aid – End of Tax Year Statements

If you are a member of the Gift Aid scheme and provided an email address, you will have received your statement by email. If we do not hold an email address for you, please check the envelopes at the back of the church. If you can share an email address, that would help reduce the effort and cost of generating the statements. If there are any discrepancies in your statement or you have not received an email or envelope, please let Abbie know via email at giftaid-loughton@brcdt.org or by text/phone call to 07754700934 including your gift aid number. 

Applying for a Job?  Fr. Adrian receives a number of reference requests for parishioners who are applying for work positions. He is always pleased to provide a reference, but it would be helpful if anyone who is applying for a post could make an appointment to speak with him about the position before giving his name. Many reference requests ask for details of weekly Mass attendance so 

Fr. Adrian will need to verify this with applicants before he can complete the reference. Many thanks.

St Edmund Life Group

Supporting life from conception to natural death. Any questions, please ring Paul 07465 405221.

The group patron is Our Lady of Guadalupe

Grays Parish, St Thomas of Canterbury 

In October this year St. Thomas’ Church and school here in Grays St Thomas of Canterbury will be celebrating 140 years of serving the community. We are inviting people to come along for Mass with the Bishop on the 10th October at 5:00pm. If you have images or memories that you would like to share, please them to send them to the parish at grays@brcdt.org  Yours in Christ, Canon Stephen

Baptisms

If you are parents of new infants and you wish to have your child baptised, please can you kindly contact your parish priest Fr Adrian Lowe 0208 5083492 as soon as possible regarding the Baptism of your child at St Edmund’s. For first time parents there is a Baptismal Programme run by Mrs Sharon Chalk. Baptisms take place on Saturdays at 12.30pm.

Please Pray for those who are Sick: 

Evelyn Bearne, Robert Bearne, Karl Britz, Brenda Bryant, Bernadette Hall, Ann Hawkes, Claire Howes, Angela Long, Lilian Mothersole, John McKernan, Remy, Geraldine Taylor, James Wright, Pamela Gibson, Geraldine Stains, Linda Moriarty, Victoria Leahy, Jean Collins, Barbara Searl, Lyn Povey, Mason Family, Ben Lewis, Adam Piotrowski, Bernard Hughes, Brian Carter and all our loved ones who are unwell.

Weekday Masses:  1st June    Monday          9:30am Mass  

                                 2nd June   Tuesday         No Mass 

                                 3rd June   Wednesday     9:30am Mass 

                                 4th June   Thursday        9:30am Mass   

                                 4th June   Thursday        12:00pm Wedding Kirsty Randall & Adrian Okosun

                                 5th June   Friday         9:30am Mass 

Letter from Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo has written a letter to all Catholics and all people of goodwill called, ‘Magnifica Humanitas’ which means ‘Magnificent Humanity. It is about safeguarding the human person in the time of Artificial Intelligence. He appeals for the safeguarding of humanity, promotion of truth, dignity of work, social justice, and peace. Divided into five chapters, Magnifica humanitas, the Pope explains that: technology is not ‘a force antagonistic to humanity nor is it ‘inherently evil.’ However, ‘technology is never neutral, because it takes on the characteristics of those who devise, finance, regulate, and use it.’ Therefore, Pope Leo appeals for people to build for the common good and to ‘remain human,’ following a courageous mentality of shared responsibility and communion, so that the world ‘will come to recognise the human heart as the place where God desires to dwell.’  The full text can be found here: https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/encyclicals/documents/20260515-magnifica-humanitas.html

Contemporary Music Group

We will next be singing and playing at the 11am Mass on Sunday, 7th June and holding a practice beforehand 7 to 8pm on Monday, 1st June.  

Please try to come to the Monday practice as well as the Sunday Mass, which will be The Feast of Corpus Christi. Any singers or musicians in our Parish who may consider joining our group will be made very welcome!

Gift Aid – End of Tax Year Statements

If you are a member of the Gift Aid scheme and provided an email address, you will have received your statement by email. If we do not hold an email address for you, please check the envelopes at the back of the church. If you can share an email address, that would help reduce the effort and cost of generating the statements. If there are any discrepancies in your statement or you have not received an email or envelope, please let Abbie know via email at giftaid-loughton@brcdt.org or by text/phone call to 07754700934 including your gift aid number. 

Baptisms

If you are parents of new infants and you wish to have your child baptised, please can you kindly contact your parish priest Fr Adrian Lowe 0208 5083492 as soon as possible regarding the Baptism of your child at St Edmund’s. For first time parents there is a Baptismal Programme run by Mrs Sharon Chalk. Baptisms take place on Saturdays at 12.30pm.

Applying for a Job?  Fr. Adrian receives a number of reference requests for parishioners who are applying for work positions. He is always pleased to provide a reference, but it would be helpful if anyone who is applying for a post could make an appointment to speak with him about the position before giving his name. Many reference requests ask for details of weekly Mass attendance so 

Fr. Adrian will need to verify this with applicants before he can complete the reference. Many thanks.

Note: There will be a second collection after the masses on the weekend of the 6th & 7th June 2026 for Sick Clergy – The Feast of Corpus Christi. 

Notice from Parish Administrator

Please could I kindly ask the 4 x Parishioners whose children’s Baptismal Certificates I currently have at the Parish office to come and collect. Please see Fr Adrian or collect from the Parish office. 

Thank you very much. Lisa -Parish Administrator

Grays Parish, St Thomas of Canterbury 

In October this year St. Thomas’ Church and school here in Grays St Thomas of Canterbury will be celebrating 140 years of serving the community. We are inviting people to come along for Mass with the Bishop on the 10th October at 5:00pm. If you have images or memories that you would like to share, please them to send them to the parish at grays@brcdt.org  Yours in Christ, Canon Stephen

Raphael Pilgrimage to Lourdes

As well as the Diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes in July, some parishioners of St Edmunds and St Thomas’s in Woodford, will be joining the Raphael Pilgrimage in August (21st-28th). Raphael is a small, friendly pilgrimage that was started by Leonard Cheshire in the 1950’s. https://www.raphaelpilgrimage.org.uk/  It is inclusive and has a wonderful team of nurses and helpers (pushing wheelchairs) to provide assistance to pilgrims. It is made up of small groups and individuals from all over the UK, of all ages and fitness levels, able bodied and wheelchair users. We fly from Stansted and stay at a hotel very close to the Domain with fully accessible rooms and facilities. The pilgrimage has a wonderful spiritual director, Fr Leo Heakin, a great programme of activities and over the week the pilgrims become friends and companions. If you would like to learn more please speak/contact Iain McLay, bloggeriain@gmail.com, or private message him via the parish WhatsApp group.

Food Bank Donations The box for food donations is in the parent and baby room (to the left as you enter the church). We currently need toiletries. (deodorant, shower gel, soaps, shampoo etc.) Thank you very much for all your donations.

Please Pray for those who are Sick: 

Evelyn Bearne, Robert Bearne, Karl Britz, Brenda Bryant, Bernadette Hall, Ann Hawkes, Claire Howes, Angela Long, Lilian Mothersole, John McKernan, Remy, Geraldine Taylor, James Wright, Pamela Gibson, Geraldine Stains, Linda Moriarty, Victoria Leahy, Jean Collins, Barbara Searl, Lyn Povey, Mason Family, Ben Lewis, Adam Piotrowski, Bernard Hughes, Brian Carter and all our loved ones who are unwell.

Job Vacancies

Trinity Catholic High School    

• Teacher of Science F/T or P/T, Permanent, Sept 26
• Teacher of RE, F/T, Permanent, Sept 26
• HoD Psychology and Sociology, F/T, Permanent, Sept 26

Hospital Chaplain- Basildon Hospital

A vacancy has arisen for a Hospital Chaplain. 

All applicants should have strong communication skills and be able to deal with the private and confidential nature of the role.

The post will be part-time working 5.25 hours per week – during the hours of 8am – 8pm. One day per week. 

The salary is £13.45 per hour 

The closing date for applications is 29th May 2026, and suitable applicants will be invited to attend an interview.

If you have any queries or if you would like to apply, please send your CV to basildon@brcdt.org 

Parish Administrator for the linked parishes of Our Lady Immaculate, Holy Name and St Augustine – Chelmsford 

A vacancy has arisen for a Parish Administrator, with financial experience, to provide administrative and financial support to the Parish Office by implementing and maintaining office systems, processes and procedures and delivering a welcoming, appropriate service to those attending the parish office. The role be based at Rochester House, 145 New London Road, Chelmsford , CM2 0QT.

The post will be full time working 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

The salary is £14.50 per hour 

The full job description is available on our website www.dioceseofbrentwood.net/diocese/working-for-us

The closing date for applications is 7th June 2026, and we will then invite suitable applicants to interview.

If you have any queries or if you would like to apply, please send your CV and/or completed application form to office@chelmsfordcatholic.co.uk or by post to Rochester House, New London Road, Chelmsford , CM2 0DT.

Weekday Masses:                25th May Monday 10:00am Mass (Bank Holiday) 

                                                26th May Tuesday No Mass 

                                                27th May Wednesday 9:30am Mass

                                                28th May Thursday 9:30am Mass – Church Cleaning to follow Mass

                                                29th May Friday 9:30am Mass

Group Church Clean

There will be a church clean on Thursday 28th May after the morning mass. 

Please come along and help if you are able. Thank you. Sharon 

Tik Tok, Instagram, X. Is there a parishioner who has a flare for  using social media? 

Do you have some free time to help set up and run some social media accounts for our parish? 

If so, please contact the parish office.  Thank you, Fr. Adrian

Gift Aid – End of Tax Year Statements

If you are a member of the Gift Aid scheme and provided an email address, you will have received your statement by email. If we do not hold an email address for you, please check the envelopes at the back of the church.

If you can share an email address, that would help reduce the effort and cost of generating the statements.

If there are any discrepancies in your statement or you have not received an email or envelope, please let Abbie know via email at giftaid-loughton@brcdt.org or by text/phone call to 07754700934 including your gift aid number. 

Doggies Walking  for Christian Aid: Dear Parishioners, thank you so much for all the support you gave our doggies during Christian Aid Week. With cash, cards, online donations and gift aid, our Parish Doggies raised an amazing £3000. That is so wonderful and will do so much good. I must also thank the kind parishioners who let me walk with their four-legged friends. They were all such a delight. Lastly, well done doggies, you can now rest those paws and grab a treat. You deserve it. 

Contemporary Music Group

We will next be singing and playing at the 11am Mass on Sunday, 7th June and holding a practice beforehand 7 to 8pm on Monday, 1st June.  

Please try to come to the Monday practice as well as the Sunday Mass, which will be The Feast of Corpus Christi.

Any singers or musicians in our Parish who may consider joining our group will be made very welcome!

Applying for a Job?  Fr. Adrian receives a number of reference requests for parishioners who are applying for work positions. He is always pleased to provide a reference, but it would be helpful if anyone who is applying for a post could make an appointment to speak with him about the position before giving his name. Many reference requests ask for details of weekly Mass attendance so 

Fr. Adrian will need to verify this with applicants before he can complete the reference. Many thanks.

Raphael Pilgrimage to Lourdes

As well as the Diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes in July, some parishioners of St Edmunds and St Thomas’s in Woodford, will be joining the Raphael Pilgrimage in August (21st-28th). Raphael is a small, friendly pilgrimage that was started by Leonard Cheshire in the 1950’s. https://www.raphaelpilgrimage.org.uk/  It is inclusive and has a wonderful team of nurses and helpers (pushing wheelchairs) to provide assistance to pilgrims. It is made up of small groups and individuals from all over the UK, of all ages and fitness levels, able bodied and wheelchair users. We fly from Stansted and stay at a hotel very close to the Domain with fully accessible rooms and facilities. The pilgrimage has a wonderful spiritual director, Fr Leo Heakin, a great programme of activities and over the week the pilgrims become friends and companions. If you would like to learn more please speak/contact Iain McLay, bloggeriain@gmail.com, or private message him via the parish WhatsApp group.

Flame 2027 – Saturday 6th March, OVO Wembley Arena
We already have a group of 1,000 people from the Diocese registered to attend this national event, full of speakers, musicians, artists, guest organisations and concluding with Adoration. A limited number of early bird tickets (£30) remain available. To book for a group, please complete the form: https://forms.office.com/e/KTevSZwGQH

Grays Parish, St Thomas of Canterbury 

In October this year St. Thomas’ Church and school here in Grays St Thomas of Canterbury will be celebrating 140 years of serving the community. We are inviting people to come along for Mass with the Bishop on the 10th October at 5:00pm. If you have images or memories that you would like to share, please them to send them to the parish at grays@brcdt.org  Yours in Christ, Canon Stephen

St Edmund Life Group

Supporting life from conception to natural death. Any questions, please ring Paul 07465 405221.

The group patron is Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Please Pray for those who are Sick: 

Evelyn Bearne, Robert Bearne, Karl Britz, Brenda Bryant, Bernadette Hall, Ann Hawkes, Claire Howes, Angela Long, Lilian Mothersole, John McKernan, Remy, Geraldine Taylor, James Wright, Pamela Gibson, Geraldine Stains, Linda Moriarty, Victoria Leahy, Jean Collins, Barbara Searl, Lyn Povey, Mason Family, Ben Lewis, Adam Piotrowski, Bernard Hughes and all our loved ones who are unwell.

Sunday 17th May 2026  at 11:00am First Holy Communion Going Forth Mass- Celebration in the Hall following the Mass

There will be a second collection after all the masses this weekend ( 16th & 17th May 2026)  for 

World Communication Day (Seventh Sunday of Easter)

Weekday Masses 18th May-22nd  May:  Monday 9:30am, 

                                                                  Tuesday No Mass 

                                                                  Wednesday 9:30am,

                                                                  Thursday 9:30am

                                                                  Friday 9:30am

Applying for a Job?  Fr. Adrian receives a number of reference requests for parishioners who are applying for work positions. He is always pleased to provide a reference, but it would be helpful if anyone who is applying for a post could make an appointment to speak with him about the position before giving his name. Many reference requests ask for details of weekly Mass attendance so 

Fr. Adrian will need to verify this with applicants before he can complete the reference. Many thanks.

St John Fisher Catholic Nursery: From September our parish primary school will have a Nursery provision for our children aged 3 to 4 years. It will be a “caring, creative, inspiring early years environment, right at the heart of our school community” and allow children to become familiar with the school, the staff and daily routines, giving them the best possible start for Reception and beyond. Please contact Admin@st-Johnfisehr.essex.sch.uk, or call 02085080638 for more information or visit the school website and look under “About Our School”.

St John Fisher

Our parish school, St John Fisher, is urgently in need of a Treasurer to support the PTA.

If  this is something you feel able to help with, it would be greatly appreciated.

Please contact committeesjfpta@gmail.com or khoward1011@gmail.com for more information.

Notice from Parish Administrator

Please could I kindly ask the 4 x Parishioners whose children’s Baptismal Certificates I currently have at the Parish office to come and collect. Please see Fr Adrian after the First Holy Communion going forth mass or collect from the Parish office. 

Thank you very much. Lisa -Parish Administrator

Walsingham House Team
Applications are open for those finishing Year 13 or university who are interested in a year of volunteering at Walsingham House. It is a unique opportunity to grow in faith, serve others and gain key life skills along the way! For further information, please email clairebailey@brcdt.org

St Edmund Life Group: Supporting life from conception to natural death. Any questions, please ring Paul 07465 405221 .

The group patron is Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Food Bank Donations The box for food donations is in the parent and baby room (to the left as you enter the church). We currently need toiletries. (deodorant, shower gel, soaps, shampoo etc.) Thank you very much for all your donations.

Raphael Pilgrimage to Lourdes: As well as the Diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes in July, some parishioners of St Edmunds and St Thomas’s in Woodford, will be joining the Raphael Pilgrimage in August (21st-28th). Raphael is a small, friendly pilgrimage that was started by L

eonard Cheshire in the 1950’s. https://www.raphaelpilgrimage.org.uk/  

It is inclusive and has a wonderful team of nurses and helpers (pushing wheelchairs) to provide assistance to pilgrims. It is made up of small groups and individuals from all over the UK, of all ages and fitness levels, able bodied and wheelchair users. We fly from Stansted and stay at a hotel very close to the Domain with fully accessible rooms and facilities. The pilgrimage has a wonderful spiritual director, Fr Leo Heakin, a great programme of activities and over the week the pilgrims become friends and companions. If you would like to learn more please speak/contact Iain McLay, bloggeriain@gmail.com, or private message him via the parish WhatsApp group.

Flame 2027 – Saturday 6th March, OVO Wembley Arena
We already have a group of 1,000 people from the Diocese registered to attend this national event, full of speakers, musicians, artists, guest organisations and concluding with Adoration. A limited number of early bird tickets (£30) remain available. To book for a group, please complete the form: https://forms.office.com/e/KTevSZwGQH

Grays Parish, St Thomas of Canterbury 

In October this year St. Thomas’ Church and school here in Grays St Thomas of Canterbury will be celebrating 140 years of serving the community. We are inviting people to come along for Mass with the Bishop on the 10th October at 5:00pm. If you have images or memories that you would like to share please them to send them to the parish at grays@brcdt.org 

Yours in Christ, Canon Stephen

Baptisms

If you are parents of new infants and you wish to have your child baptised, please can you kindly contact your parish priest Fr Adrian Lowe 0208 5083492 as soon as possible regarding the Baptism of your child at St Edmund’s. For first time parents there is a Baptismal Programme run by Mrs Sharon Chalk. Baptisms take place on Saturdays at 12.30pm.

Please Pray for those who are Sick: 

Evelyn Bearne, Robert Bearne, Karl Britz, Brenda Bryant, Bernadette Hall, Ann Hawkes, Claire Howes, Angela Long, Lilian Mothersole, John McKernan, Remy, Geraldine Taylor, James Wright, Pamela Gibson, Geraldine Stains, Linda Moriarty, Victoria Leahy, Jean Collins, Barbara Searl, Lyn Povey, Mason Family, Ben Lewis, Adam Piotrowski, Bernard Hughes and all our loved ones who are unwell.

Job Vacancies

Trinity Catholic High School    

• Cover Supervisor – F/T, Permanent, ASAP
• Cover Manager, F/T, Permanent, ASAP
• Teacher of RE, F/T, Permanent, April/Sept 26
• 2nd in Charge of RE, F/T, Permanent, ASAP or Sept 26
• Teacher of Business F/T or P/T, Permanent, Sept 26
• Teacher of Geography, F/T, Permanent, Sept 26

CAFOD are hiring

Could you inspire Catholics to participate in the Church’s mission, working to overcome poverty and injustice? Do you want to work for CAFOD and encourage support and partnership within the Church? We are looking for a Community Participation Coordinator to work in the Diocese of Brentwood. Follow the link for more details and please pass on to any friends or relatives who might be interested. 

Closing date: 18 May 2026. See cafod.org.uk/work-with-us

Hospital Chaplain- Basildon Hospital

A vacancy has arisen for a Hospital Chaplain. 

All applicants should have strong communication skills and be able to deal with the private and confidential nature of the role.

The post will be part-time working 5.25 hours per week – during the hours of 8am – 8pm. One day per week. 

The salary is £13.45 per hour 

The closing date for applications is 29th May 2026, and suitable applicants will be invited to attend an interview.

If you have any queries or if you would like to apply, please send your CV to basildon@brcdt.org 

Trinity Catholic High School    

• Cover Supervisor – F/T, Permanent, ASAP
• Cover Manager, F/T, Permanent, ASAP
• Teacher of RE, F/T, Permanent, April/Sept 26
• 2nd in Charge of RE, F/T, Permanent, ASAP or Sept 26
• Teacher of Business F/T or P/T, Permanent, Sept 26
• Teacher of Geography, F/T, Permanent, Sept 26

CAFOD are hiring. Could you inspire Catholics to participate in the Church’s mission, working to overcome poverty and injustice? Do you want to work for CAFOD and encourage support and partnership within the Church? We are looking for a Community Participation Coordinator to work in the Diocese of Brentwood. Follow the link for more details and please pass on to any friends or relatives who might be interested. Closing date: 18 May 2026. See cafod.org.uk/work-with-us

This Parish Newsletter Covers Two Weeks

Weekday Masses 4th May-8th May:  Monday 9:30am, Tuesday No Mass, Wednesday 9:30am,

                                                             Thursday 9:30am, Friday 9:30am

Saturday 9th May 2026:                     12:00pm Sacrament of  First Holy Communion Candidates 

Sunday 10th May 2026:                      1:00pm Sacrament of First Holy Communion Candidates 

                                                             3:00pm Divine Mercy Devotions in church. Join us in this

                                                             beautiful prayer for 20 minutes. Confessions available after.                                                         

Weekday Masses 11th May -15th May:  Monday 9:30am, Tuesday No Mass, Wednesday 9:30am

Thursday (Mass of the Ascension- Holy Day of Obligation) 12:15pm & 7:30pm , Friday 9:30am

Note For Our Contemporary Music Group

We will next be singing and playing at the 11am Mass on Sunday, 3rd May. As always, any new singers or musicians in our Parish who may like to join our happy group will be made very welcome

Parish Doggies Walking for Christian Aid Week: The weather is lovely and it will soon be time for some serious Christian Aid Week Walking. This year it is 10th May-16th May. As you know my little Billy is no longer with us, I miss him every day. However, some very kind parishioners, with lovely dogs, have offered to help me, so this year we will be having a “Parish Doggies Walking for Christian Aid”. Each day a “Parish Doggy” will be walking with me to a local church and I shall be letting you know how they do in my daily “dog-blog”. If you would like to sponsor them, I will be outside church after the masses this weekend and next. Thanks, Iain McLay

Christian Aid Week Collecting at Aldi and HomeBargains: This year all the churches in Loughton are working together collecting for Christian Aid Week at Epping Forest Shopping Park, the one on Langston Road, on Saturday May 16th from 9am-7pm. We are doing just an hour each and always collecting with somebody else. If you can help, please let Iain McLay know at bloggeriain@gmail.com or message him on the Parish WhatsApp or catch him after mass. It’s a great way of meeting lovely people from other churches.

Applying for a Job?  Fr. Adrian receives a number of reference requests for parishioners who are applying for work positions. He is always pleased to provide a reference, but it would be helpful if anyone who is applying for a post could make an appointment to speak with him about the position before giving his name.  Many reference requests ask for details of weekly Mass attendance so Fr. Adrian will need to verify this with applicants before he can complete the reference. Many thanks.

St John Fisher Catholic Nursery: From September our parish primary school will have a Nursery provision for our children aged 3 to 4 years. It will be a “caring, creative, inspiring early years environment, right at the heart of our school community” and allow children to become familiar with the school, the staff and daily routines, giving them the best possible start for Reception and beyond. Please contact Admin@st-Johnfisehr.essex.sch.uk, or call 02085080638 for more information or visit the school website and look under “About Our School”.

St John Fisher

Our parish school, St John Fisher, is urgently in need of a Treasurer to support the PTA.

If  this is something you feel able to help with, it would be greatly appreciated.

Please contact committeesjfpta@gmail.com or khoward1011@gmail.com for more information

St Edmund Life Group

Supporting life from conception to natural death. Any questions, please ring Paul 07861032174.

The group patron is Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Raphael Pilgrimage to Lourdes

As well as the Diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes in July, some parishioners of St Edmunds and St Thomas’s in Woodford, will be joining the Raphael Pilgrimage in August (21st-28th). Raphael is a small, friendly pilgrimage that was started by Leonard Cheshire in the 1950’s. https://www.raphaelpilgrimage.org.uk/  

It is inclusive and has a wonderful team of nurses and helpers (pushing wheelchairs) to provide assistance to pilgrims. It is made up of small groups and individuals from all over the UK, of all ages and fitness levels, able bodied and wheelchair users. We fly from Stansted and stay at a hotel very close to the Domain with fully accessible rooms and facilities. The pilgrimage has a wonderful spiritual director, Fr Leo Heakin, a great programme of activities and over the week the pilgrims become friends and companions. If you would like to learn more please speak/contact Iain McLay, bloggeriain@gmail.com, or private message him via the parish WhatsApp group.

World Youth Day 2027 (Seoul, South Korea)
Be part of something extraordinary at World Youth Day 2027 in Seoul, South Korea. Travel with the Brentwood Catholic Youth Service to join hundreds of thousands of young Catholics from around the world, gathered with Pope Leo for this global celebration of faith. Open to those currently in Year 13 and above. Details and applications: www.bcys.net/events/wyd27

Please Pray for those who are Sick: 

Evelyn Bearne, Robert Bearne, Karl Britz, Brenda Bryant, Bernadette Hall, Ann Hawkes, Claire Howes, Angela Long, Lilian Mothersole, John McKernan, Remy, Geraldine Taylor, James Wright, Pamela Gibson, Geraldine Stains, Linda Moriarty, Victoria Leahy, Jean Collins, Barbara Searl, Lyn Povey, Mason Family, Ben Lewis, Adam Piotrowski, Bernard Hughes and all our loved ones who are unwell.