PARISH OF THE MOST BLESSED TRINITY                                                       

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN AND  ALL SAINTS

26th Sunday of the  Year— YEAR B, 26th  September 2021

Rev. Thomas W. Doyle, 293 Muiryhall Street, Coatbridge, ML5 3RZ

Tel:  01236 441110; Email:  themostblessedtrinity@rcdom.org.uk   

Website: www.mostblessedtrinity.com;  Twitter: @rcblesstrinity 

Facebook page: Parish of the Most Blessed Trinity

Pastoral Assistant:  Sr. Frances Reilly, 

in residence St. Stephen’s , Paddock Street, Coatbridge.    

MASSES

Theme:

First Reading: Wisdom 2: 12. 17-20

Wrongdoers are reluctant to trust people who focus on doing what is right and sometimes try to catch them out.

Second Reading: James 3: 16—4:3

Peacemakers, when they work for peace, sow the seeds which will bear fruit in holiness.

Gospel: Mark 9: 30-37

Jesus says that anyone who welcomes a little child in his name welcomes Christ himself; and anyone who welcomes Christ welcomes not him but the Father who sent him.

FEAST DAYS 

Monday 27th September: St. Vincent de Paul;    Wednesday 28th Sts. Michael, Gabriel and Raphael.

Thursday 30th September:  St. Jerome;   Friday 1st October:  St. Therese of the Child Jesus and

Saturday 2nd October; The Holy Guardia Angels.

Confession

Confession boxes are still out of use.   Please go to the Sacristy before Mass.

JERSEY TONES, Saturday 17th October 2021, in the Parish Hall, Tickets £16 on sale.

Great News:  The Universe newspaper which went into administration this Summer after 160 years is to be replaced by an online subscription digital publication under a new name, The Universe Catholic Weekly.  The new Universe Catholic Weekly will be topical, controversial, stimulating and packed with news opinion and features. This means that each week they can deliver a publication full of news and features directly to your desktop, tablet, laptop or smartphone. You  can have a weekly edition paper for just £20 a quarter paid subscription (13 copies) paid simply and directly to the publisher.  Watch this space.

DIOCESAN SYNODAL PROCESS

“For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation and Mission.” Pope Francis invites us all to take part in the Synod which will reflect on these themes. Every parish is asked to come together in prayer, listening and discernment to hear what the Holy Spirit is saying to us. In communion with each other, we experience that “we belong to Christ and Christ belongs to God” (I Corinthians 3.23). Bishop Toal will mark the beginning of this synodal  process with the celebration of Mass in Motherwell Cathedral on Sunday 17^th October at 3pm. Make a note of this in your diary and take part in this important diocesan event. Please let your Parish Priest know you wish to attend.

PASTORAL SAFEGUARDING LETTER from Bishop Toal is available on our website,.  Some printed copies are also available.

PARISH OF THE MOST BLESSED TRINITY                              

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN AND  ALL SAINTS

25th Sunday of the  Year— YEAR B,  19th  September 2021

Rev. Thomas W. Doyle, 293 Muiryhall Street, Coatbridge, ML5 3RZ

Tel:  01236 441110; Email:  themostblessedtrinity@rcdom.org.uk   

Website: www.mostblessedtrinity.com;  Twitter: @rcblesstrinity 

Facebook page: Parish of The Most Blessed Trinity

Pastoral Assistant:  Sr. Frances Reilly, 

in residence St. Stephen’s , Paddock Street, Coatbridge.    

MASSES

THEME:

First Reading: Wisdom 2: 12. 17-20

Wrongdoers are reluctant to trust people who focus on doing what is right and sometimes try to catch them out.

Second Reading: James 3: 16—4:3

Peacemakers, when they work for peace, sow the seeds which will bear fruit in holiness.

Gospel: Mark 9: 30-37

Jesus says that anyone who welcomes a little child in his name welcomes Christ himself; and anyone who welcomes Christ welcomes not him but the Father who sent him.

FEAST DAYS

Monday 20th                St. Andrew Kim Taegon and Paul Chong, Ha-Sang and Companions.

Tuesday 21st                 St. Matthew

Thursday 23rd          St. Pius of Pietrelcina.

Pope Francis has called a Synod of Bishops to meet in Rome in 2023. The topic will be “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation and Mission.” The Holy Father asks that the whole people of God take part in this Synod by meeting together in parishes to pray, discuss and reflect on the topic in order to discern how the Holy Spirit is prompting the Church to go forward.

Bishop Toal will mark the beginning of this synodal process with the celebration of Mass in Motherwell Cathedral on Sunday 17th October

at 3.00 p.m. Please make a note of this in your diary and take part in this important diocesan event.”

MASS TIMES: We have resumed the usual weekday Mass times. Leaflets are available with times of all the weekday services in both churches.

Face masks still require to be worn and hand hygiene observed. We have also been advised that all windows and doors must be kept open during services so

PLEASE, PLEASE, WRAP UP WELL.

CONFESSION

Confession boxes are still out of use. Please go to the Sacristy before Mass.

SCIAF GUIDE TO COP26

is available on their website at:

Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund | Scottish Charity | SCIAF

ST. ANDREW’S HOSPICE have various fundraising events forthcoming. If you would like to take part or make a donation, please contact St. Andrew’s Hospice on 01236 766951 or go to their website at https://www.st-andrews-hospice.com/

PARISH OF THE MOST BLESSED TRINITY                              

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN AND  ALL SAINTS

24th Sunday of the  Year— YEAR B      , 12th  September 2021

Rev. Thomas W. Doyle, 293 Muiryhall Street, Coatbridge, ML5 3RZ

Tel:  01236 441110; Email:  themostblessedtrinity@rcdom.org.uk   

Website: www.mostblessedtrinity.com;  Twitter: @rcblesstrinity 

Facebook page: Parish of The Most Blessed Trinity

Pastoral Assistant:  Sr. Frances Reilly, 

in residence St. Stephen’s , Paddock Street, Coatbridge.    

MASSES

Theme:

First Reading: Isaiah 50: 5-9                                                     

The anonymous servant of the Lord faces terrible persecution

on account of his preaching.  He does not resist.

Second Reading:  James 2: 14-18

James maintains that the real sign of faith is putting that faith into practice.

Gospel:  Mark 8: 27-35

Peter says “You are the Christ,” but fails to see that the Christ must suffer.

FEAST DAYS   

12th September: The Most Holy Name of Mary

13th : St. John Chrysostom

14th: Exaltation of the Holy Cross

15th: Our Lady of Sorrows

16th: St. Ninian

Confessions

Confession boxes remain out of use.

Please go to the sacristy for  confession before Mass.

VOCATIONS AWARENESS WEEK starts TODAY,  12th September 2021. 

A special collection will be taken up this weekend for the Ecclesiastical Students’ Fund.

SAVE THE DATE

17th September:  A NIGHT WITH CHRISTIAN  

Tickets £8 on sale at the back of the church.

 Starts at 7.30 p.m.

MARRIAGE PREPARATION COURSES have now resumed.  Full details on our website.

MASS TIMES: We have resumed the usual weekday Mass times.

Leaflets are available with times of all the weekday services in both churches.

Face masks still require to be worn and hand hygiene observed.  We have also been advised that all windows and doors must be kept open during services so 

PLEASE, PLEASE, WRAP UP WELL.  

Every effort will be made not to prolong services especially during the winter months.

T o w a r d s a S y n o d a l C h u r c h “The time is ripe for a wider participation of the

People of God in a decision-making process that affects the whole Church and everyone in the Church. ~ Cardinal Grech.” Details of talks on Saturdays in September  at

slaitynetwork@gmail.com.

SAFEGUARDING MATTERS:  newsletter can be found on the Bishops’ Conference       website https://www.bcos.org.uk/Safeguarding or by using this link:

https://bit.ly/3h4TkiB.

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                 

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN AND

ALL SAINTS

23rd Sunday of the Year,  Year B

^{5th September 2021}

 MASSES

MASS TIMES: We will return to the usual Mass times this week 

Leaflets are available with times of all the weekday    

services in both churches.

Although we are now returning to normal times for Masses,

face masks still require to be worn and hand hygiene observed.  

We have also been advised that all windows and doors must be kept open

during services so 

PLEASE, PLEASE WRAP UP WELL.  

Every effort will be made not to prolong services especially during the winter months.

Theme:   

First Reading: Isaiah 35: 4-7

God offers courage to all those with faith.

Second Reading:  James 2: 1-5

Do not be deferential to those with riches or power.

Gospel:  Mark 7: 7: 31-37

Our call to have “hearts without borders”.

FEAST DAYS   

Wednesday 8th: The Nativity of Our Lady

Confessions

Confession boxes remain out of use.  Please go to the sacristy for confession before Mass.

VOCATIONS AWARENESS WEEK: starts on Sunday 12th September 2021.  A special collection will be taken up that weekend for the Ecclesiastical Students’ Fund.

SAVE THE DATE

17th September:  A NIGHT WITH CHRISTIAN    Tickets £8. Starts at 7.30 p.m.

MARRIAGE PREPARATION COURSES have now resumed.  The  certificated 1 day course      covers all the necessary pre-marriage sacramental themes required by the Church .  The courses will take place in the Parish Centre of St. Augustine’s Church, Dundyvan Road, Coatbridge

ML5 1DQ on the following days:

¨ Saturday 18th September 2021, 11.30am – 2.30pm

¨ Saturday 23rd October 2021, 11.30am – 2.30pm

¨ Saturday 22nd January 2022, 11.30am – 2.30pm

¨ Saturday 19th February 2022, 11.30am – 2.30pm

¨ Saturday 19th March 2022, 11.30am – 2.30pm

¨ Saturday 23rd April 2022, 11.30am – 2.30pm

These courses may now be booked online at www.marriagefamilylife.org Any queries that couples  may have about the course can be emailed to familylife@rcdom.org.uk.

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                 

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN AND

ALL SAINTS

21st Sunday of the Year,  Year B

^{22nd August 2021}

 MASSES

MASS TIMES:  it is hoped to return to the usual Mass times in September.

Theme:

First Reading: Joshua 24: 1-2. 15-18

Joshua asks the people to renew their promise to serve the Lord always.

Second Reading: Ephesians 5: 21-52

St. Paul speaks about marriage, obedience, fidelity, love and self-sacrifice.

Gospel:  John 6: 60-69

Jesus, like Joshua, calls for his disciples to remain faithful after some had gone away.

FEAST DAYS   

Tuesday 24th: St. Bartholomew

Friday 27th: St. Monica

Saturday 28th: St. Augustine    

Confessions

Confession boxes remain out of use. Please go to the sacristy for confession before Mass.

SPONSORED WALK  🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️

The sponsored walk in aid of the restoration fund raised the sum of £767; many thanks to all who took part and

to all who sponsored them.  Your help is greatly appreciated.

DIOCESAN VOCATIONS MASS: 26th August 2021 at  7.00 p.m. in

Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral Motherwell,  You are invited to attend.

VOCATIONS

Lord, to whom shall we go?” Jesus is the only answer to our seeking. Could you be on to help people find him, as a priest, a deacon or a religious brother or sister? Speak to your local Vocations Director ,

Father Charles O’Farrell, either by phone 01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk.

NATIONAL PILGRIMAGE TO CARFIN in honour of St Joseph,  is on Sunday 5th September 2021 at 3.00 p.m.  Principal Celebrant and homilist will be Bishop Brian McGee.

An invitation is extended to all parishioners to attend.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY                                                                                    

3rd September: BINGO NIGHT.     

Tickets £2.                   Starts at 7.30 p.m.

17th September:          A NIGHT WITH CHRISTIAN

Tickets £8.          Starts at 7.30 p.m.

NATIONAL SAFEGUARDING WEBINAR

Saturday 2nd October 2021 11.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m.  “Growing our Culture of Care” Open to all who have a safeguarding role in the Church’s

safeguarding   efforts: clergy, religious, employees and volunteers.

Registration for this event is NOW OPEN.  The link to the registration page is provided on the flier: https://bit.ly/3gQRdPu .

🙏         WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR CREATION is on Wednesday 1st September 2021.

Pope Francis calls us all to celebrate this opportune    moment to “reaffirm our personal vocation to be stewards of creation, to thank God for the wonderful handiwork which he has entrusted to our care, and to implore his help for the protection of creation, as well as his pardon for the sins committed against the world in which we live.”

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                 

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN AND

ALL SAINTS

THE ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY,  Year B

^{4th July 2021}

MASSES

As we at last return to some form of normality in the church, I’m aware that some parishioners may still feel a little wary which of course is only normal given all we have been through. I’m sure we will all be sensitive towards the concerns of others and help easy their anxiety by giving our reassurances when it helps.
I would like once again like to take this opportunity to thank all our stewards and those who helped with the booking system and for everyone who helped at this time.
Although much has eased in the church the following guide- lines remain in place:
Please use the hand sanitizer as you enter the church.
Please wear a face mask in the church. (This does not apply to children twelve and under) Please continue with track and trace.

CONFESSIONS
Confession boxes remain out of use. Please go to the sacristy for confession before Mass

DIOCESAN VOcATIONS MASS: 26th August 2021 at 7.00 p.m. in Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral Motherwell, You are invited to attend.

New Eucharistic Ministers and Readers Rotas available.

THE ASSUMPTION OF TIIE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY into Heaven is the physical assumption of the Most BlessedVirgin Mary into the Glory of Heaven at the end of her earthly life. This belief is part of the treasury of the Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodoxy, Oriental Orthodoxy, and parts of Anglicanism. In the Eastern Orthodox churches, the Assumption is
referred as the Dormition of the Theotokos (a Greek word literally meaning “God bearer”). This dogma of faith leaves open the question of Mary’s natural death. Catholic Teaching and the Sense of the Faithful. The Catholic Church teaches as dogma that the Virgin Mary “having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory.” This doctrine was dogmatically defined by Pope Pius XII on November 1, 1950, in the Apostolic Constitution Munificentissimus Deus, while exercising papal infallibility. But Pope Pius was not declaring the belief in the Assumption as something new or novel. There is written evidence of the belief as early as the 4th century in text that covers several different languages and a fairly wide geographical dispersion. Teaching of the Assumption of Mary became widespread across the Christian world, having been celebrated liturgically as early as the 5th century in the East. It was celebrated in the West under Pope Sergius I in the 8th century and Pope Leo IV then confirmed the feast as official.
Theological debate about the Assumption continued, following the Reformation, climaxing in 1950 when Pope Pius XII defined it as dogma for the Catholic Church.
Pope Pius took advantage of modem communications available in his time. He asked bishops worldwide to tell him what the people believed and practiced – the sensus fideum – the sense of the faithful. The dogmatic declaration that the Assumption was part of the “deposit of faith” for all Catholics was just the formal declaration of what the faithful already believed and practised.

BACK TO SCHOOL    As the children and young people return to school we V Jy, A/’ wish them and all the staff every blessing as they begin a 1 ACK 1(15,1 new academic year. Its been a very challenging time for our schools and we pray that a return to normality for the children will be of great benefit to them. Our Lady Seat of Wisdom pray for them.

Bishop Toal has recently undergone eye surgery and is making a good recovery . He thanks us for the generous support of our prayers.

NATIONAL PILGRIMAGE TO CARFIN in honour of St Joseph, is on Sunday

5th September 2021 at 3.00 p.m. Principal Celebrant and homilist will be

Bishop Brian McGee.

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                 

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN AND

ALL SAINTS

14th Sunday of the Year, Year B

^{4th July 2021}

MASSES

There will be Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from 9.00 a.m. till 9.25 a.m. Monday to Friday in All Saints Church.

FEAST DAYS

Monday 5th                                 St. Antony Mary Zaccaria

Tuesday 6th                                St. Maria Goretti

Friday 9th                                     Our Lady of Aberdeen

SECOND COLLECTION TODAY Peter’s Pence for the Apostolate of the See of St Peter.

ANNUAL SPONSORED WALK in Dunbeth Park on Sunday1st August 2021. Meet at Quarry Street Gates of                  🚶‍♀️     🚶‍♂️

All Saints at 1.30 p.m. to walk round to the park. Twice round Dunbeth Park. Sponsor Forms will be available from the

Stewards.  This would be a nice way to meet up and reconnect after lockdown.

VOCATIONS: 

“I am sending you to them.” The prophet Ezekiel is called and sent to speak God’s word to his People. Could you be called in a similar way to bring the Gospel to people in priesthood or religious life?

Contact your Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell, either by phone 01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk.

GOSPEL REFLECTION

Mark’s Gospel tells us that Jesus sent out the Twelve. These twelve were selected from among Jesus’ disciples and named by Mark in chapter 3. Mark notes that these twelve are also called “apostles.” The word apostle means “one who is sent.” The number twelve is also a symbolic number, representing the twelve tribes of Israel.

By naming twelve apostles, Jesus shows his mission to be in continuity with the mission of God’s people, Israel.

Jesus’ instructions to the apostles are very specific. He repeats the mission that they are sent to preach and to share his authority to heal and to drive out demons. Jesus sends them in pairs, establishing his mission as a communal endeavour. Jesus also instructs them to travel lightly, without the customary food, money, and extra set of clothes. These instructions mean that the Twelve will be dependent on the hospitality of others, just as Jesus depended on others to provide for his needs.

Our Lady of Aberdeen is a Madonna and Child statuette, a copy of a        similar statuette in Brussels known as Notre Dame du Bon Succes. Copies of Notre Dame du Bon Succes are to be found across the North East of Scotland. It is believed that the statue in Brussels may have been in Old Aberdeen as early as 1450. References to a statue in a Chapel at the Bridge of Dee in Aberdeen suggest that it may have been placed there by Bishop Gavin Dunbar of Aberdeen (1514-1531). [11 At the beginning of the

Scottish Reformation (c. 1559) many religious objects from churches in Aberdeen and the St Machar’s Cathedral in Old Aberdeen were given for safe keeping to Catholic sympathisers. It is claimed that the statue was in the hands of a Catholic family, the Gordons of Strathbogie, until 1625. It was then sent to the Low Countries by a William Laing, thought to be the Procurer for copies in St Mary’s Cathedral, Aberdeen and in the Bishop’s House, formerly the Convent of the Sacred Heart in Aberdeen. Other    copies include one in Buckie and one in St Peter’s Church in Aberdeen.

SVDP FURNITURE PROJECT

The SSVP are looking for volunteers at their furniture unit in Wishaw. Help is required in their office, uplifts and furniture deliveries. Are you available

from 11.00 a.m—3.00 p.m once or twice a month to help assist with this work?

Please call 01698 375291 or 07483 363888 Tuesdays or Thursdays  between 11.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m. or leave a message and they will get back to you

or email: svdpfurniture@outlook.com.

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                 

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN AND

ALL SAINTS

12th Sunday of the Year, Year B

^{20th June 2021}

MASSES

There will be Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from 9.00 a.m. till 9.25 a.m. Monday to Friday in All Saints Church.

Gospel Reflection:

The Gospel today reminds us that God is with us in the midst of the storms and tempests of But Christ is the quiet presence in our lives who stops our lives from sinking as he rebukes every storm and disturbance in our lives. Let us have complete faith in Christ even at times of great trial. this life. Like the disciples we might accuse Jesus saying Master do you not care. We are sinking.

SPECIAL COLLECTION

The Bishop has asked that we take up a collection for the apostolate of media and communication in the diocese. A second basket will be in the porch for those in a position to contribute.

MOTHERWELL LOURDES HOSPITALITÉ

The annual Motherwell Diocesan Lourdes Hospitalité Day at Carfin will take place TODAY at 3 pm.  Holy Mass with the blessing of the Sick will be celebrated by Bishop Toal.

VOCATIONS

“Even the wind and the sea obey him.” Jesus brings calm when storms threated to overwhelm us. Could you bring his calming, restoring presence to others and inspire faith in times of anxiety?  Contact  your Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk,

email Priests for Scotland at office@pfs.org.uk, or see their website or Facebook pages (PFS or VocationNetworkScotland).

Congratulations to the children from All Saints Primary School on the reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation, we pray that the gift of the Holy Spirit may enrich their young lives and help them to serve Christ more fully. Sincere thanks to the Mrs McMullan and all the staff for the support and preparation of the children for receiving the sacraments.

All Saints Readers: we can thankfully have readers again at Mass and a rota for the next few weeks can be collected from the sacristy. Anyone interested in becoming a reader at mass please speak to Fr Doyle. 

St Stephen’s Altar Servers: many thanks to the

Altar Servers who joined our meeting on

Wednesday afternoon, we look forward to the

return of servers at mass after the school holidays.

Happy Father’s Day TO ALL FATHERS.

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSEDTRINITY                 

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN AND

ALL SAINTS

11th Sunday of the Year, Year B

^{13th June 2021}

MASSES

There will be Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from 9.00 a.m. till 9.25 a.m. Monday to Friday in All Saints Church.

Gospel Reflection:

Today’s Gospel Reading consists of two parables about the kingdom of God whose seed is sown in the world. The emphasis in the parables is on the seed, which seemingly has the power to grow on its own. While on earth, Jesus planted the seeds of the kingdom by his life, miracles, teaching, and suffering. However, the kingdom is not yet fully established. Although already present in Jesus and the twelve, it has yet to come to fruition; just as the seed in the parable needs time to grow, so does God’s kingdom. The mustard seed though not the smallest of all seeds develops into a tree. Its wide expanse and provides a nesting place for all the birds. Just as the tree welcomes the birds, so is God’s kingdom welcoming and open to many.

SPECIAL COLLECTION

The Bishop has asked that we take up a collection for the apostolate of

media and communication in the diocese. A second basket will be in the porch for those in a position to contribute.

THANK YOU  

May I express my sincere and heartfelt thanks for the continued generosity that parishioners have shown throughout this period to the parish.

CONGRATULATIONS

We congratulate our First Communicants and thank their teachers for all the prayerful preparation of the children for this wonderful day. Please keep the children preparing for Confirmation in your prayers.

STEWARDS

We owe a great debt of gratitude to all our stewards, who have allowed us to open the churches safely and in accordance with the Covid protocols. They have been unfailingly generous with their time and I sincerely thank them for all their commitment and the service they have given to Christ and the church.

Pope Francis calls the church to a new way of working together: “The journey of synodality is the journey that God wants from his church in the third millennium”. “A synodal church is a listening church, aware that listening is more than hearing. It is a reciprocal listening in which each one has something to learn.” The pope wishes every parish and diocese to be actively engage in this process which will begin in the autumn.

June is a month dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus we place all our trust and hope in that heart which burns with love for us. His heart never turns anyone away who seeks refuge or consolation, from that heart flows an infinite ocean of grace, mercy and love

Bulletins can be obtained from a box at the Stall Door.

VOCATIONS

“The Kingdom of God is like a mustard seed”. From small and simple      beginnings, God makes his Kingdom grow. Is that small seed planted in your heart, which might flower into service in the Church?

Contact  your Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk,

email Priests for Scotland at office@pfs.org.uk, or see their website or Facebook pages (PFS or VocationNetworkScotland).

MOTHERWELL LOURDES HOSPITALITÉ

The annual Motherwell Diocesan Lourdes Hospitalité Day at Carfin will take place on Sunday 20th June,  at 3 pm.  Holy Mass with the blessing of the Sick will be celebrated by Bishop Toal.

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSEDTRINITY                 

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN AND

ALL SAINTS

CORPUS CHRISTI

(THE MOST HOLY BODY AND

BLOOD OF CHRIST)

6^th June 2021

MASSES

MONDAY MORNING MASS:  There will be  a funeral on Monday morning, so there will be no public Mass at 9.30 a.m.

There will be Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from 9.00 a.m. till 9.25 a.m. Monday to Friday in

All Saints Church.

THEME

First reading: Exodus 14: 3-8

The importance of blood, shed for the good of others. Israelites give this gift to God from their own flocks and herds — an offering of life to God, the Lord of life.

Second reading:  Hebrews 9: 11-15

Unlike the multiple sacrifices in  the past, the sacrifice of Jesus is a once-and-for-all sacrifice.

Gospel: Mark 14: 12-15. 22-26

Mark’s account of the Last Supper and the institution of Eucharist@ an action whereby Jesus’ gift of himself is made available in every age.

FEAST DAYS

Wednesday 9^th                                  St. Columba.

Friday 11^th                                          Sacred Heart of Jesus

Saturday 12^th                                         Immaculate Heart of Blessed Virgin Mary.

BIBLE REFLECTION

All of today’s readings are set in the context of the Passover. The First Reading recalls the old covenant celebrated at Sinai following the first Passover and the Exodus.

In sprinkling the blood of the covenant on the Israelites, Moses was symbolizing God’s desire in this covenant to make them His family, His “blood” relations.

Quoting Moses’ words in today’s Gospel, Jesus elevates and transforms this covenant symbol to extraordinary reality. In the new covenant made in the blood of Christ, we truly become one with His body and blood.

The first covenant made with Moses and Israel at Sinai was but a shadow of this new and greater covenant made by Christ with all humankind in that upper room (see Hebrews 10:1).

The Passover that Jesus celebrates with His Twelve Apostles “actualizes,” makes real what could only be symbolized by Moses’ sacrifice at the altar with twelve pillars. What Jesus does today is establish His Church as the new Israel and His Eucharist as the new worship of the living God.

In offering Himself to God through the Spirit, Jesus delivered Israel from the transgressions of the first covenant. And, as we hear in today’s Epistle, by His blood He purified us and made us capable of true worship.

God does not want dead works or animal sacrifices. He wants our own flesh and blood, our own lives, consecrated to Him, offered as a living sacrifice. This is the sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving that we sing of in today’s Psalm. This is the Eucharist.

What we do in memory of Him is to pledge our lives to Him, to renew our promise to live by the words of His covenant and to be His servants.

There is no other return we can offer to Him for the eternal inheritance He has won for us. So let us approach the altar, calling upon His name in thanksgiving, taking up the cup of salvation.

CONGRATULATIONS to our First Holy Communicants

 and their families;

many thanks to their teachers

for the assistance they gave to the children.         

Well done boys and girls!

Corpus Christi

“We prostrate ourselves before a God who first bent over man like the Good Samaritan to assist him and restore his life, and who knelt before us to wash our dirty feet. Adoring the Body of Christ, means believing that there, in that piece of Bread, Christ is really there, and gives true sense to life, to the immense universe as to the smallest creature, to the whole of human history as to the most brief existence. Adoration is prayer that prolongs the celebration and Eucharistic communion and in which the soul continues to be nourished: it is nourished with love, truth, peace; it is nourished with hope, because the One before whom we prostrate ourselves does not judge us, does not crush us but liberates and transforms us.” Pope Benedict XVI

Sacred Heart

Just as we might view the birth of Jesus, as the arrival of God’s love and light into a world grown cold and dark through sin, so we might view the growth of the devotion to the Sacred Heart as a response to the world grown cold though the religious confusion and a popular heresy of the time.

The Reformation had split the Church in the 16th century, leaving many in confusion. Jansenism was growing rapidly, especially in France, during the 17th century. Jansenism, a theological approach based on the teachings of the Dutch theologian Cornelius Jansen, emphasized the sinfulness of the human condition resulting in a serious sense of guilt which, in turn, led to a diminishment in the frequency of the reception of Holy Communion among Catholics.

Devotion to the love of the heart of Jesus  had been a part of popular devotion since the early days of the Church, and, with a few exceptions, the symbol of that love was the blood and water flowing from the wounded side of Christ as he hung on the cross. It was not until the 17th century, and the rise of a more affectionate approach to the humanity of Jesus, that devotion specifically to the heart of Jesus gained popularity.

Due to the work of Saint John Eudes, a feast in honor of Jesus’ heart was first celebrated on August 31, 1670. The devotion gained rapidly in popularity due to the visions of Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque. In an apparition on June 16, 1675, Jesus specifically asked for a feast of the Sacred Heart on the Friday after the octave of Corpus Christi—the celebration of the Body and Blood of Jesus. This requested feast was to be in reparation for the lack of gratitude people showed for the loving sacrifice that Jesus had made for them; the sacrifice made present in the Sacrament of the body and blood of Jesus, the Eucharist.

Prayer to the Sacred Heart

O most holy Heart of Jesus, fountain of every blessing,

I adore you; I love you and will a lively sorrow for my sins.

I offer you this poor heart of mine.

Make me humble, patient, pure, and wholly obedient to your will.

Grant, good Jesus, that I may live in you and for you.

Protect me in the midst of danger; comfort me in my afflictions,

give me health of body, assistance in my temporal needs,

your blessings on all that I do, and the grace of a holy death.

Within your heart I place my every care.

In every need let me come to you with humble trust saying,

Heart of Jesus, help me.   Amen.

Immaculate Heart of Mary

In the 17th century, Saint John Eudes promoted devotion to the hearts of Jesus and Mary. He even composed an Office and Mass in honor of the Heart of Mary. It became a feast of the universal Church only in the 20th century and is celebrated on the day after the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

The New Testament mentions Mary’s heart only twice. Luke 2:19 says, “Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.” Luke 2:51 has a similar text.

Both in Scripture and in later reflections on Mary’s heart, it is obvious that the usage is symbolic. The physical heart stands for the inner reaches of the human personality. It includes or connotes the mind, the soul, the will, the spirit, the core of one’s being. It is the place where a person thinks, remembers, feels, desires, makes decisions.

Medieval saints such as Mechtild, Gertrude (November 16) and Bridget (July 23) promoted devotion to the heart of Mary. Franciscan and Jesuit theologians made their contributions. Saint Francis de Sales (January 24) dedicated his Treatise on the Love of God to Mary’s heart.  But it was Saint John Eudes (August 19) who wrote extensively about this theme. He says that the divine Word printed on Mary’s heart a perfect likeness of the divine attributes and a share in the properties of each person of the Trinity.

Perhaps this devotion came into its own in the 20th century. It is a special theme of Fatima. In 1942, Pius XII consecrated the world to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and established this feast for the universal Church.

ST COLUMBA

Columba was born in 521 in Donegal, Ireland, and named Crimthann, meaning ‘fox’. He was of royal blood. Two cousins became high kings of the Uí Néill. Columba might have become king himself had he not been sent into the Church. There he received a new name – Columba, Latin for ‘dove’. Later he became known as Colum-Chille ‘Dove of the Church’.

In 563, aged 42, Columba left Ireland for Argyll. He arrived on Iona with 12 companions and established a monastery. Iona wasn’t the first monastery he founded, neither was it his last. But it soon became his favourite. Columba didn’t come as a missionary. The people in Argyll were his people, Gaels and already Christian. Columba travelled among them as a priest among his flock. We read of him journeying through ‘the rough and rocky district of Ardnamurchan’, and of him sailing across to Coll, Islay and Skye. He baptised, married, buried and admonished his flock. No one was too mighty, or too meek, for Columba, friend of kings and commoners alike.

Occasionally, Columba left Argyll. He returned to Ireland periodically. He also undertook tiring missionary journeys into Pictland to the east. But Iona was his home. And there he died, on Sunday 9 June 597 at the age of 75.

VOCATIONS

“This is my Body” Without the Eucharist there is no Church. Without priests, there is no Eucharist. Could God be inviting you to share in Jesus’s priesthood, offering your life with his for his people?

Speak to your Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk,

email Priests for Scotland at office@pfs.org.uk, or see their website or Facebook pages (PFS or VocationNetworkScotland).

BAPTISMS

Restrictions have been eased and we are allowed to arrange Baptisms now.  Please contact Father Doyle to arrange.

EVENTBRITE MASS BOOKINGS:  You are now able to book several weeks ahead on Eventbrite.  For those who do not have access to  the internet there are still 20 walk-up places available at each Mass.

RAFFLE IN AID OF RESTORATION FUND 

Win a hamper, includes a bottle of Celtic gin.  Only £1 a try.

 Special Collection in June – for the Apostolate of Communications

“During the month of June, the Special Collection in our parishes is for the Apostolate of Communications, in particular to assist the funding of the Scottish Catholic Media Office. The Motherwell Diocese, along with the other Dioceses, fund this Office as part of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland and depend on the support from the annual collection to do so. Your contributions are much appreciated.”  The collection will be taken up in our parish NEXT SUNDAY.

NATIONAL SAFEGUARDING WEBINAR

REGISTER for the National Safeguarding Webinar Saturday 2nd October 2021 11am to 1pm.

Details of how to register will follow.

MOTHERWELL LOURDES HOSPITALITÉ              

The annual Motherwell Diocesan Lourdes Hospitalité Day at Carfin will take place on Sunday 20th June,  at 3 pm. 

Holy Mass with the blessing of the Sick will be celebrated by Bishop Toal.

Aid to the Church in Need Benefactors’ Day: Feast of the Sacred Heart – Friday 11th June,  ACN’s partners will be offering prayers, and Masses for all those who help suffering Christians throughout the world.

• On 11th June at 5pm for a special, livestreamed Mass from Father Dominic Robinson, ACN UK’s Ecclesiastical Assistant at Farm Street Church, Mayfair.
• Bishop Robson of Dunkeld Diocese will be celebrating Mass the day before, 10th June, at 10am for ACN Benefactors’ Day.

• Go to Aid to the Church in Need | ACN Benefactors’ Day 2021 (acnuk.org) and click on the links at the bottom of the page to watch these services.

Thanks to you, ACN are able to work in over 139 countries around the world. In 2020, 4,758 projects were supported – none of this would be possible without your help.

 RIGHT TO LIFE

Ask your MP to sign a Parliamentary motion to stop ‘DIY’ abortion

Carla Lockhart MP has launched a parliamentary motion calling on the Government to end ‘DIY’ home abortion.

It is therefore vital that as many MPs as possible sign Carla Lockhart’s motion to send a clear message to the Government that they must end dangerous ‘DIY’ home abortion services as soon as possible.

Right To Life UK has launched an easy-to-use tool which makes it simple for you to send an email to your MP asking them to sign the motion. Please click the link below to contact your MP now. It only takes 30 seconds!

www.righttolife.org.uk/DIYmotion

PARISH OF THE MOST BLESSED TRINITY 

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS

THE MOST HOLY TRINITY, B

30th May 2021

MASSES

PLEASE NOTE:  There will be no Mass at 9.30 a.m. on Wednesday morning in All Saints Church, as there is a funeral in St. Stephen’s Church.

There will be Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from 9.00 a.m. till 9.25 a.m. Monday to Friday in

All Saints Church.

THEME

First reading: Deuteronomy 4: 32-34. 39-40

The God of Israel has spoken a powerful word of love deep into the hearts of God’s people.

Second reading:  Romans 8: 14-17

Through our baptism, the Holy Spirit makes us God’s children, full of dignity and life.

Gospel: Matthew 28: 16-20

Jesus sends his apostles out to baptise in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

FEAST DAYS

Monday 31^st May                              The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Tuesday 1^st June                               St. Justin.

Thursday 3^rd June                             St. Charles Lwanga and Companions.

Saturday 5^th June                              St. Boniface.

Pope Francis on the Trinity:

Today, the Sunday after Pentecost, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity, a celebration for contemplating and lauding the mystery of the God of Jesus Christ, who is one in the communion of three Persons: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. To celebrate with ever new wonder God-Love, who freely offers us his life and asks us to spread it throughout the world.

Today’s Bible readings help us understand that God wishes to show us not so much that he exists but rather that he is the ‘God with us’, close to us, who loves us, who walks with us, is interested in our personal life story and takes care of each one, beginning with the least and the neediest. He “is God in heaven above” but also “on the earth beneath” (cf. Dt 4:39). Therefore, we do not believe in a distant entity, no! In an indifferent entity, no! But, on the contrary, in the Love who created the universe and who engendered a people, became flesh, died and rose for us and, as the Holy Spirit, transforms and leads everything to fulfilment.

Saint Paul (cf. Rom 8:14-17), who experienced first-hand this transformation brought about by God-Love, tells us of God’s desire to be called Father, indeed, ‘Dad’ — God is ‘Our Father’ —, with the total confidence of a child who abandons himself in the arms of the one who gave him life. Acting in us — the Apostle again recalls — the Holy Spirit ensures that Jesus Christ is not reduced to a character of the past, no, but that we feel he is near, our contemporary, and feel the joy of being children loved by God. Lastly, in the Gospel, the Risen Lord promises to remain with us forever. And thanks precisely to his presence and to the power of his Spirit we can serenely carry out the mission that he entrusts to us. What is the mission? To proclaim to all and witness to his Gospel and thereby expand our communion with him and the joy that comes from it. God, walking with us, fills us with joy and in a way, joy is a Christian’s first language.

Thus, the Feast of the Most Holy Trinity leads us to contemplate the mystery of God who unceasingly creates, redeems and sanctifies, always with love and through love, and enables every creature that welcomes him to reflect a ray of his beauty, goodness and truth. He has always chosen to walk with mankind and forms a people who may be a blessing for all nations and for each person, excluding none. A Christian is not an isolated person; he or she belongs to a people: this people that God forms. One cannot be Christian without this membership and communion. We are a people: The People of God. May the Virgin Mary help us to joyfully fulfil the mission of witnessing to the world, thirsty for love, that the meaning of life is precisely the infinite love, the tangible love of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Prayer to the Most Blessed Trinity: 

The Father is my hope. The Son is my refuge. The Holy Spirit is my protector. Glory to the holy and undivided Trinity, now and forever.

Let us praise the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit; let us bless and exult God above all forever! Almighty and everlasting God, to whom we owe the grace of professing the true faith, grant that while acknowledging the glory of the eternal Trinity and adoring its unity, we may through your majestic power be confirmed in this faith and defended against all adversities; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, invites us to appreciate Our Lady’s own understanding of God’s mercy.  By reflecting on Our Blessed Mother’s visitation to her cousin, Saint Elizabeth, the Virgin Mary, who is called “Mother of Mercy”, can help us understand God’s great mercy and love for us.

Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen tells us in his book Life of Christ, that:

Mary was given a sign that she would conceive by the Holy Spirit. Her cousin Elizabeth already had conceived a son in her old age and was now six months pregnant [cf Luke 1:36]. Bearing the Divine Secret within her, Mary then traveled several days’ journey from Nazareth to Hebron where, traditionally, the remains of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob lay. Elizabeth, who somehow knew mysteriously, that the Blessed Virgin was bearing the Messiah, cried out:

Most blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb.

And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? (Luke 1:42-43)

This greeting came from the mother of the herald of the Word to the Mother of the King whose path the herald would prepare. John the Baptist “still cloistered in his mother’s womb” leaped for joy at Jesus and His mother, who brought the Christ to their home.

Our Blessed Mother responded to Elizabeth with her Magnificat song of joy, extolling what God had done for her and praising His mercy, His strength, and His compassion. Retracing the history of Israel back to Abraham, she celebrated God’s plan in preparing for this moment from one generation to the next.  And she also looked into the future and prophesied: that all would call her “Blessed” and that the Messiah was on His way. God was fulfilling His prophecies and was about to manifest Himself on earth, in the flesh, to all mankind. Her praise of His mercy and justice was also a prophecy of the qualities that Christ would enflesh. She ends her hymn of praise by proclaiming the revolution He would set in motion by unseating the mighty and exalting the humble [adapted from Life of Christ].

Providentially, Sister Elena Bosetti S.J.B.P. also wrote this some time ago in her book Luke: The Song of God’s Mercy – A Contemplative Reading of the Gospel:

“The Magnificat sings the story of divine mercy, which bestows itself in many forms: toward the mothers of Israel and toward their sons, in fidelity to the promise made to their father Abraham, in whose name the canticle closes. Mercy, the divine eleos, [or hesed] is therefore the guiding theme of the Magnificat, the golden thread that connects Mary’s situation to that of Israel…. [N]ot by chance [does] the ending of the Magnificat [contain] two [particularly relevant] points [on mercy]: verse 50, which serves as a bridge between Mary’s personal situation and that of the community, and verse 54, at the end of the sevenfold salvation of Israel:

‘And his mercy is from generation to generation toward those who fear him.’

(v 50)

‘He has come to the aid of his servant, Israel, mindful of his mercy (v 54)

Finally, what God did in the Blessed Virgin, He mercifully, albeit differently, does in us.  And, Servant of God Monsignor Romano Guardini, in his book The Rosary of Our Lady, beautifully explained it like this:

In every Christian life there is a sacred domain of nascent growth in which dwells Christ — a domain in which we are more firmly rooted than we are in our own. There He works and grows, takes possession of our being, draws our strength toward Himself, penetrates our thoughts and volition, and sways our emotions and sentiments, so that the word of the Apostle comes true:

“It is now no longer I that live, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20)

As we can see, this is, indeed, a wonderful feast on which to meditate on God’s mercy: what He did in Mary, our Mother; what He did for humanity; and what He has done and is doing, individually, for each one of us.  Let us not let this day pass without praising His mercy and giving thanks to Him whose “mercy endures forever” (cf. Psalm 136).

Day for Life 

In Scotland we keep our Annual Day for Life on the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, May 31st. We reflect on the need to continue to promote and defend the dignity and sanctity of human life, especially in the mother’s womb and other vulnerable stages.

VOCATIONS

Could God be calling you to discern a vocation to Holy Orders? Speak to your Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk,

email Priests for Scotland at office@pfs.org.uk, or see their website or Facebook pages (PFS or VocationNetworkScotland).

DIACONATE ORDINATION

Christopher Morris, a seminarian from our Diocese, studying in St Mary’s Oscott, is to be ordained a deacon in Oscott on 6th June by Archbishop Bernard Longley. Please pray for Christopher as he prepares for ordination. He will minister as a deacon in Our Lady of Lourdes, East Kilbride, during the summer.

BAPTISMS

Restrictions have been eased and we are allowed to arrange Baptisms now.  Please contact Father Doyle to arrange.

EVENTBRITE MASS BOOKINGS:  You are now able to book several weeks ahead on Eventbrite.  For those who do not have access to  the internet there are still 20 walk-up places available at each Mass.

RAFFLE IN AID OF RESTORATION FUND 

Win a hamper, includes a bottle of Celtic gin.  Only £1 a try.

Special Collection in June – for the Apostolate of Communications

“During the month of June, the Special Collection in our parishes is for the Apostolate of Communications, in particular to assist the funding of the Scottish Catholic Media Office. The Motherwell Diocese, along with the other Dioceses, fund this Office as part of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland and depend on the support from the annual collection to do so. Your contributions are much appreciated.”  The collection will be taken up in our parish NEXT SUNDAY.

NATIONAL SAFEGUARDING WEBINAR

Saturday 2^nd October 2021 from 11 a.m. to 1.00 p.m.

Further information to follow 

National Rosary Relay Rally for Faith, Life & Peace across the Dioceses of Scotland   

Bishop Toal will lead the Rosary on Sunday evening at 7.00 pm from St Gerard’s Church. This will be streamed.

On Monday 31st May, pilgrims at Carfin Grotto will join with His Holiness Pope Francis in the recitation of the Rosary at the conclusion of the month-long Marathon of Prayer and this will be broadcast worldwide by Vatican TV. The Rosary will begin at 5.00 pm and there will be a large screen provided in the Grotto to allow everyone to fully participate in this event. The event will also be streamed on the Grotto’s social media platforms.

This will be a tremendous opportunity to promote Carfin Lourdes Grotto worldwide.

A link giving further information is given below.

https://www.facebook.com/carfingrotto/photos/a.116730979865194/333578134847143/?__cft__[0]=AZXjuCf0Th2wmORSppfJiC5N_c8pVbHknik9yD0GNAUgMhH3FecMHK65Du2N_rV1XKg6iZXvdZ6CdGrdSjEMWYu9K7LSmSBHiAVaWrLuSsr3Rz2wRVZk9JLFJF2GnuU3wh5HXUGtugERBMS__qfLPR&__tn__=EH-R

The following link is to an article in Vatican News as Pope Francis focusses on Our Lady, Untier of Knots, as his theme for the closing event.

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2021-05/pope-to-conclude-month-of-prayer-with-rosary-in-vatican-gardens.html

20 DAYS FOR LIFE

Due to Tier 4 restrictions, our 2021 Lenten 40 Days for Life peaceful prayer and fasting vigil at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow was postponed. Sadly, in the midst of this current situation the government did not halt or restrict its abortion culture of death.

On March 23rd, 2021 the government called for a UK National Day of Reflection to be held for those who had died from Covid the previous year. According to latest official figures at that time there had been 143,259 Covid deaths. The following month April 2021 we marked the 53rd anniversary of the implementation of the 1967 Abortion Act which has resulted in almost 9.5million deaths of our unborn children here in the UK.

Think of the unborn when you pray the words ‘For what I have done and for what I have failed to do’. Think of those words in the ballot box. ‘They will not grow old as we who are left grow old but we will remember them’.

We are coming out for a 20 Days for Life from June 1st until June 20th outside of the QEUH in Glasgow from 8am until 8pm each day.

To take part email Ogilvie1615@outlook.com

Aid to the Church in Need Benefactors’ Day: Feast of the Sacred Heart –

Friday 11th June,  Further information next week.

PARISH OF THE MOST BLESSED TRINITY 

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS

PENTECOST SUNDAY, B

23rd May 2021

MASSES

There will be Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from 9.00 a.m. till 9.25 a.m. Monday to Friday in

All Saints Church.

THEME

First reading: Acts 2: 1-11

The apostles are empowered by the Holy Spirit to speak a multitude of languages to help preach the Gospel.

Second reading:  Galatians 5: 16-25

St Paul contrasts the fruits of sin with a beautiful litany of the fruits of the Holy Spirit, who dwells within us.

Gospel: John 15: 26-27; 16: 12-15

Jesus promises the coming of the Holy Spirit, who dwells in the Church and helps us understand the  truth.

FEAST DAYS

Monday 24^th:                           Mary, Mother of the Church

Wednesday 26^th:                     St. Philp Neri

Pentecost marks the end of Eastertide/Paschaltide.  The paschal candle which has remained on sanctuary since the Easter Vigil is removed and relocated to the Baptistery.

NEXT SUNDAY IS TRINITY SUNDAY.

The May 2021 Rosary Mission theme:

Rosary Stronghold with the Holy Family –

Protecting our Families and the Family of Nations.

The designated Rosary Hour for the Diocese of Motherwell for the National Rosary Relay Rally on Sunday May 30th is from 7pm to 8pm and will be led by Bishop Toal.

Further details, including internet links to enable you to join in the prayer, can be found at –

https://www.rosaryonthecoast.co.uk/

🕊  Pentecost Reflection on Reading  🕊

The giving of the Spirit to the new people of God crowns the mighty acts of the Father in salvation history.

The Jewish feast of Pentecost called all devout Jews to Jerusalem to celebrate their birth as God’s chosen people in the covenant Law given to Moses at Sinai.

(see Leviticus 23:15–21; Deuteronomy 16:9–11).

In today’s First Reading, the mysteries prefigured in that feast are fulfilled in the pouring out of the Spirit on Mary and the Apostles (see Acts 1:14).

The Spirit seals the new law and new covenant brought by Jesus, written not on stone tablets but on the hearts of believers, as the prophets promised (see Jeremiah 31:31–34; 2 Corinthians 3:2–8; Romans 8:2).

The Spirit is revealed as the life-giving breath of the Father, the Wisdom by which He made all things, as we sing in today’s Psalm.

In the beginning, the Spirit came as a “mighty wind” sweeping over the face of the earth (see Genesis 1:2). And in the new creation of Pentecost, the Spirit again comes as “a strong, driving wind” to renew the face of the earth.

As God fashioned the first man out of dust and filled him with His Spirit (see Genesis 2:7), in today’s Gospel we see the New Adam become a life-giving Spirit, breathing new life into the Apostles (see 1 Corinthians 15:45, 47).

Like a river of living water, for all ages He will pour out His Spirit on His body, the Church, as we hear in today’s Epistle (see also John 7:37–39).

We receive that Spirit in the sacraments, being made a “new creation” in Baptism (see 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15).

Drinking of the one Spirit in the Eucharist (see 1 Corinthians 10:4), we are the first fruits of a new humanity—fashioned from out of every nation under heaven, with no distinctions of wealth or language or race, a people born of the Spirit.

Mary, Mother of the Church:

In 2018 Pope Francis decreed that the ancient devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, under the title of Mother of the Church, be inserted into the Roman Calendar. To be celebrated annually in the Universal Church as a Memorial on the day after Pentecost.

In the decree Cardinal Robert Sarah, Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship said the Holy Father wishes to promote this devotion in order to “encourage the growth of the maternal sense of the Church in the pastors, religious and faithful, as well as a growth of genuine Marian piety”.

‘Mother of the Church’ in tradition: 

The decree reflects on the history of Marian theology in the Church’s liturgical tradition and the writings of the Church Fathers. Saint Augustine and Pope Saint Leo the Great both reflected on the Virgin Mary’s importance in the mystery of Christ. St. Augustine says that Mary is the mother of the members of Christ, because with charity she cooperated in the rebirth of the faithful into the Church, Pope St. Leo the Great says that the birth of the Head is also the birth of the body, thus indicating that Mary is at once Mother of Christ, the Son of God, and mother of the members of his Mystical Body, which is the Church.”

The decree says, at the foot of the Cross (cf. Jn 19:25) Mary became the Mother of the Church when she “accepted her Son’s testament of love and welcomed all people in the person of the beloved disciple as sons and daughters to be reborn unto life eternal.” In 1964, Pope Paul VI “declared the Blessed Virgin Mary as ‘Mother of the Church and of all Christian people, the faithful should call on Mary as a most loving Mother’ and should further honour and invoke her by this tenderest of titles’”.

Day for Life is the day in the Church’s year dedicated to raising awareness about the meaning and value of human life at every stage and in every condition. The Church teaches that life is to be nurtured from conception to natural death. This year’s Day for Life is celebrated on 31 May in Scotland, ‘Moses’ invitation rings out loud and clear: “See, I have set before you this day life and good, death and evil. … I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse; therefore choose life, that you and your descendants may live” (Dt 30:15, 19).’ Evangelium Vitae, 28

The theme for Day for Life has particular focus on protecting mothers and unborn children, and bringing hope and healing after abortion.

VOCATIONS

“There is a variety of gifts but always the same Spirit; there are all sorts of service, but always for the same Lord.” What kind of service do your gifts suggest? Perhaps you could offer them as a priest, deacon or in religious life…Speak to your Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk,

email Priests for Scotland at office@pfs.org.uk, or see their website or Facebook pages (PFS or VocationNetworkScotland).

🕊  BAPTISMS   

Restrictions have been eased and we are allowed to arrange Baptisms now.  Please contact Father Doyle to arrange.

 RIGHT TO LIFE have a digital news service.  This can be accessed at www.righttolife.org.uk/news.

PARISH OF THE MOST BLESSED TRINITY 

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS

SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER, B

16th May 2021

MASSES

9.30 a.m.                     Monday to Friday       All Saints,                   streamed

4.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          All Saints                    streamed

5.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          St. Stephen’s               —–

10.30 a.m.                   Sunday                        All Saints                    streamed

12.15 p.m.                   Sunday                        St. Stephen’s               —–

5.30 p.m.                     Sunday                        All Saints                    streamed

There will be Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from 9.00 a.m. till 9.25 a.m. Monday to Friday in All Saints Church.

THEME

First reading: 1: 15-17. 20-26

With discernment and prayer, the apostles choose Matthias to replace Judas as a fellow apostle.

Second reading:  1 John 4: 11-16

The heart of the Christian faith is love: God’s love for us and our lover for one another.

Gospel: John 17: 11-19

Jesus prays for the Church, for each of us to be one with him, to be filled with his joy; and for us to be protected from evil.

FEAST DAYS

Tuesday 18^th                                       St. John I

Thursday 20^th                                      St. Bernardine of Siena

Saturday 22^nd                                      St. Rita of Cascia

Sunday 23^rd                                         The Solemnity of Pentecost.

TRINITY SUNDAY is on 30^th May and is the end of the period for fulfilling Easter duties.

WORLD COMMUNICATIONS DAY is on Sunday 16^th May.  The collection for communications will be taken up in September.

The May 2021 Rosary Mission theme:

Rosary Stronghold with the Holy Family –

Protecting our Families and the Family of Nations.

The designated Rosary Hour for the Diocese of Motherwell for the National Rosary Relay Rally on Sunday May 30th is from 7pm to 8pm and will be led by Bishop Toal.

Further details, including internet links to enable you to join in the prayer, can be found at –

https://www.rosaryonthecoast.co.uk/

Sunday Reflection 

Today’s First Reading begins by giving us a time frame—the events take place during the days between Christ’s Ascension and Pentecost. We are at the same point in our liturgical year. On Thursday we celebrated His being taken up in glory, and next Sunday we will celebrate His sending of the Spirit upon the Church.

Jesus’ prayer in the Gospel today also captures the mood of departure and the anticipation. He is telling us today how it will be when He is no longer in the world.

By His Ascension, the Lord has established His throne in heaven, as we sing in today’s Psalm. His kingdom is His Church, which continues His mission on earth.

Jesus fashioned His kingdom as a new Jerusalem and a new house of David (see Psalm 122:4–5; Revelation 21:9–14). He entrusted this kingdom to His Twelve Apostles, who were to preside at the

Eucharistic table, and to rule with Him over the restored twelve tribes of Israel (see Luke 22:29–30).

The Twelve Apostles symbolize the twelve tribes and hence the fulfillment of God’s plan for Israel (see Galatians 6:16). That is why it is crucial to replace Judas—so that the Church in its fullness receives the Spirit at Pentecost.

Peter’s leadership of the Apostles is another key element of the Church as it is depicted today. Notice that Peter is unquestionably in control, interpreting the Scriptures, deciding a course of action, even defining the nature of the apostolic ministry.

No one has ever seen God, as we hear in today’s Epistle. Yet, through the Church founded on His Apostles, the witnesses to the resurrection, the world will come to know and believe in God’s love, that He sent His Son to be our savior.

Through the Church, Jesus’ pledge still comes to us—that if we love, God will remain with us in our trials and protects us from the evil one. By His word of truth, He will help us grow in holiness, the perfection of love.

VOCATIONS

“As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.” Are you being sent by Jesus to bring his presence to the world as a priest, deacon or in consecrated life?

Speak to your Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk,  email Priests for Scotland at office@pfs.org.uk, or see their website or Facebook pages (PFS or VocationNetworkScotland).

BAPTISMS

Restrictions have been eased and we are allowed to arrange Baptisms now.  Please contact Father Doyle to arrange.

Readers and Eucharistic Ministers: 

Unfortunately, because of the present circumstances and the importance of social distancing there have been no Readers or Eucharistic Ministers at mass. This is very sad because it is appropriate for the lay faithful to exercise these ministries. I sincerely hope before long that we can once again have these ministries restored their rightful place.

The ministries of Reader/Lector and Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharistic are essential offices of service to the parish community. They are an expression of the priesthood of the whole People of God, who share through their Baptismal dignity in the priestly office of Christ.

These lay ministries serve the whole parish community in the most sacred and essential way, since they are exercised when we as a community gather for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.

In the Liturgy of the Word at mass the sacred scriptures are open that we may nourish our hearts and souls on the sacred Word of God. The Word of God is a living word, which brings salvation and the good news of God’s endless love for us. His word must be announced, it must be spoken to the assembly of God’s people and those who proclaim that word should do so mindful of whose word it is they speak.

Likewise, those who serve at the altar as Eucharistic Ministers must do so with the utmost reverence, humility, and love for they distribute to God’s people the very Bread of Life, the Body and Blood of Christ. As a parish we are grateful to all those who assist at mass and recognize also, the work of those who assist the children in children’s liturgy and our parish choir, music group and organists who add so much to a dignified and joyful liturgy.

SPUC

On Saturday, 22 May 2021, at Carfin Grotto, SPUC Scotland will display 14,000 white flower images, one for every child lost to abortion in Scotland in one year, to create a ‘carpet of flowers for the unborn’. Bishop Toal will bless the physical display at 2pm.  If you would like to sponsor a virtual flower, please visit www.whiteflower.org.uk or call SPUC Scotland (0141 221 2094) to make a donation.   Find information on how to book tickets for this event at

Tickets, Sat 22 May 2021 at 14:00 | Eventbrite,  Only 250 places are available.

RIGHT TO LIFE have a digital news service.  This can be accessed at www.righttolife.org.uk/news.

PARISH OF THE MOST BLESSED TRINITY 

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER, B

9th May 2021

MASSES

9.30 a.m.                     Monday to Friday       All Saints,                   streamed

4.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          All Saints                    streamed

5.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          St. Stephen’s               —–

10.30 a.m.                   Sunday                        All Saints                    streamed

12.15 p.m.                   Sunday                        St. Stephen’s               —–

5.30 p.m.                     Sunday                        All Saints                    streamed

There will be Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from 9.00 a.m. till 9.25 a.m. Monday to Friday in All Saints Church.

THEME

First reading: Acts 9: 26-31

Christ has revealed that God’s love extends to everybody.

Second reading:  1 John 4: 7-190

John insists that the more fully and completely we know God, the more the reality of God’s love dawns on us.  We are called to love one another as God has loved us.

Gospel: John 15: 1-8

Jesus spends his last hours with his closest companions, speaking of love – abiding in love, living each day with joy, and bearing the fruits of that love and joy.

FEAST DAYS

Thursday 13^th            The Ascension of the Lord is not a holyday of obligation.                                                Those who are able, are encouraged to attend Mass.

Masses in All Saints              

                                         Vigil: 7.30 p.m. Wednesday

                                         Morning Mass: 9.30 a.m. Thursday

Mass in St. Stephen’s           

                                          Morning Mass: 10.30 a.m. on Thursday.

Friday 14^th                    St. Matthias

WORLD COMMUNICATIONS DAY is on Sunday 16^th May.

Sunday Reflection 

God is love, and He revealed that love in sending His only Son to be a sacrificial offering for our sins.

In these words, from today’s Epistle, we should hear an echo of the story of Abraham’s offering of Isaac at the dawn of salvation history. Because Abraham obeyed God’s command and did not withhold his only beloved son, God promised that Abraham’s descendants, the children of Israel, would be the source of blessing for all nations (see Genesis 22:16–18).

We see that promise coming to fulfilment in today’s First Reading. God pours out His Spirit upon the Gentiles, the non-Israelites, as they listen to the word of Peter’s preaching. Notice they receive the same gifts received by the devout Jews who heard Peter’s preaching at Pentecost—the Spirit comes to rest upon them and they speak in tongues, glorifying God (see Acts 2:5–11).

In His love today, God reveals that His salvation embraces the house of Israel and peoples of all nations. Not by circumcision or blood relation to Abraham but by faith in the Word of Christ, sealed in the Sacrament of Baptism, people are to be made children of Abraham, heirs to God’s covenants of promise (see Galatians 3:7–9; Ephesians 2:12).

This is the wondrous work of God that we sing of in today’s Psalm. It is the work of the Church, the good fruit that Jesus chooses and appoints His Apostles for in today’s Gospel.

As Peter raises up Cornelius today, the Church continues to lift all eyes to Christ, the only one in whose name they can find salvation.

In the Church, each of us has been begotten by the love of God. But the Scriptures today reveal that this divine gift brings with it a command and a duty. We are to love one another as we have been loved. We are to lay down our lives in giving ourselves to others—that they too might find friendship with Christ and new life through Him.

Sacrament of Confirmation:                 🕊

Confirmation, a sacrament of initiation, establishes young adults as full-fledged members of the faith. This sacrament is called Confirmation because the faith given in Baptism is now confirmed and made strong. During your Baptism, your parents and godparents make promises to renounce Satan and believe in God and the Church on your behalf. At Confirmation, you renew those same promises, this time speaking for yourself.

During Confirmation, the focus is on the Holy Spirit, who confirmed the apostles on Pentecost and gave them courage to practice their faith. Catholics believe that the same Holy Spirit confirms Catholics during the Sacrament of Confirmation and gives them the same gifts.

Traditionally, the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude (courage), knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. These gifts are supernatural graces given to the soul. The 12 fruits of the Holy Spirit are charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, long-suffering, mildness, faith, modesty, continency, and chastity — human qualities that can be activated by the Holy Spirit.

Please remember in your prayers the children who will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation on Monday & Tuesday evenings.

Novena of the Holy Spirit 

This is the churches oldest prayer, as after the Ascension Jesus told his disciples to wait and pray for the gift of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The disciples were joined in prayer by Mary, the Mother of God who supported the early Church at this special time of formation. The Holy Spirit Novena is a powerful and moving novena that is meant to help us open ourselves up to the Holy Spirit the third person of the Holy Trinity.

Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth. O, God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations, through Christ Our Lord, Amen.

VOCATIONS

“You did not choose me: no, I chose you, and I commissioned you to go out and bear fruit.” Has Jesus perhaps chosen you to share in his mission as a priest, deacon or in consecrated life?  Speak to your Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk,

email Priests for Scotland at office@pfs.org.uk, or see their website or Facebook pages (PFS or VocationNetworkScotland).

BAPTISMS   

Restrictions have been eased and we are allowed to arrange Baptisms now.  Please contact Father Doyle to arrange.

MARY’S MEALS

You are invited to join in prayer with Mary’s Meals during the month of May to celebrate the wonderful work of Mary’s Meals and give thanks that they are now reaching 1.8 million children with a nutritious meal in 19 countries every school day.  Please pray for God’s continued blessing on their beautiful mission that through his Providence it will always flourish, enabling them to reach more hungry children.

🙏     The May 2021 Rosary Mission theme:

Rosary Stronghold with the Holy Family –

Protecting our Families and the Family of Nations.

The designated Rosary Hour for the Diocese of Motherwell for the National Rosary Relay Rally on Sunday May 30th is from 7pm to 8pm and will be led by Bishop Toal.

Further details, including internet links to enable you to join in the prayer, can be found at –

https://www.rosaryonthecoast.co.uk/

BEWARE of bogus callers at your door

Bogus callers are people who come to your door and pretend to be someone they are not, like a workman, or someone from a utility company. Such callers could be looking to commit a distraction burglary: they want to trick their way into your home in order to steal.  Also be aware that there are telephone bogus callers who will try and defraud you by pretending to be from your bank, HMRC or your pension company.

Don’t let strangers into your home.

Always check their identity first. If in doubt, keep them out!

Just because a caller says they are from a company, the council or even the police, it does not mean they are. It could be a bogus caller trying to get into your home to steal your property. You may feel rude to refuse entry to someone who comes to your door, but it is your doorstep and, therefore, your decision.

PARISH OF THE MOST BLESSED TRINITY 

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER, B

2^nd May 2021

MASSES

9.30 a.m.                     Monday to Friday       All Saints,                   streamed

4.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          All Saints                    streamed

5.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          St. Stephen’s               —–

10.30 a.m.                   Sunday                        All Saints                    streamed

12.15 p.m.                   Sunday                        St. Stephen’s               —–

5.30 p.m.                     Sunday                        All Saints                    streamed

There will be Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from 9.00 a.m. till 9.25 a.m. Monday to Friday in All Saints Church.

THEME

First reading: Acts 9: 26-31

Barnabas introduces Saul to the apostles, preparing the way for the mission of the future apostle, Paul.

Second reading: 1 John 3:

We know that God lives in us when the Holy Spirit enables us to believe in Jesus and love one another as he told us to.

Gospel: John 15: 1-8

Just as the branch has to be attached to the vine if it is to bear fruit, so we have to be united to Christ if we are to bear the fruits of love.

FEAST DAYS

Monday 3^rd:                St. Philip and St. James

VOCATIONS

“Saul went round preaching fearlessly in the name of the Lord.” Could you have the zeal of Saul for sharing the power of the Gospel and the love of Christ?   Speak to your Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or

email  frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk,

email Priests for Scotland at office@pfs.org.uk, or see their website or Facebook pages (PFS or VocationNetworkScotland).

Sick & Retired Priests: There will be a second basket as you leave the church for the Retired & Sick Priests.

Thank you for the care and concern you show to your priests who have served our parishes and

diocese of Motherwell.

New Booking system for Mass

The link for Eventbrite to book next weekend’s Masses is:

The Most Blessed Trinity Events | Eventbrite

or you can use the link  on the Home Page of our website at Holy Trinity (mostblessedtrinity.com).

This is a permanent link and can be used every week.

Registration begins at 12 noon each Monday.  You will be unable to book before that time. 

When you click on the link it will take you to the page on Eventbrite where all the Masses for both parishes are listed.

Click on the Mass you wish to attend, and a page will come up with a green box which says register,  this will take you to a page which shows a ticket and a red box at the bottom which says register.

Click on register and you will go to a page where you should give your name, email address etc. Once you have completed the form, with the names of all those for whom you require tickets,  then click register.  You will be advised that you have been successful.  A confirmation email will be sent to you from Eventbrite.

BAPTISMS

Restrictions have been eased and we are allowed to arrange Baptisms now.  Please contact

Father Doyle to arrange.

MARY’S MEALS

You are invited to join in prayer with Mary’s Meals during the month of May to celebrate the wonderful work of Mary’s Meals and give thanks that they are now reaching 1.8 million children with a nutritious meal in 19 countries every school day.  Please pray for God’s continued blessing on their beautiful mission that through his Providence it will always flourish, enabling them to reach more hungry children.

Act now and stop disability abortion up to birth in NI
Earlier this year the Northern Ireland Assembly voted on the Severe Fetal Impairment Abortion (Amendment) Bill and it passed Second Stage by 48 votes to 12.

The Northern Ireland Health Committee is now undertaking a consultation on the Bill and is seeking submissions from the public. It is important that as many people as possible submit to the consultation in support of the Bill to clearly show that there is widespread support for this important change.

Right To Life UK has set up an easy-to-use tool on their website that makes it simple to complete your submission. You can do so by following the link below. It only takes 30 seconds!

www.righttolife.org.uk/nidisabilityconsultation

St Joseph the Worker

To foster deep devotion to Saint Joseph among Catholics, and in response to the “May Day” celebrations for workers sponsored by Communists, Pope Pius XII instituted the feast of Saint Joseph the Worker in 1955. This feast extends the long relationship between Joseph and the cause of workers in both Catholic faith and devotion. Beginning in the Book of Genesis, the dignity of human work has long been celebrated as a participation in the creative work of God. By work, humankind both fulfills the command found in Genesis to care for the earth (Gn 2:15) and to be productive in their labors. Saint Joseph, the carpenter, and foster father of Jesus, is but one example of the holiness of human labor.

Jesus, too, was a carpenter. He learned the trade from Saint Joseph and spent his early adult years working side-by-side in Joseph’s carpentry shop before leaving to pursue his ministry as preacher and healer. In his encyclical Laborem Exercens, Pope John Paul II stated: “the Church considers it her task always to call attention to the dignity and rights of those who work, to condemn situations in which that dignity and those rights are violated, and to help to guide [social] changes so as to ensure authentic progress by man and society.”

Saint Joseph is held up as a model of such work. Pius XII emphasized this when he said, “The spirit flows to you and to all men from the heart of the God-man, Savior of the world, but certainly, no worker was ever more completely and profoundly penetrated by it than the foster father of Jesus, who lived with Him in closest intimacy and community of family life and work.”

The Year of St Joseph

In his Apostolic Letter entitled Patris corde (“With a Father’s Heart”), Pope Francis describes Saint Joseph as a beloved father, a tender and loving father, an obedient father, an accepting father; a father who is creatively courageous, a working father, a father in the shadows.

The Letter marks the 150th anniversary of Blessed Pope Pius IX’s declaration of St Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church. To celebrate the anniversary, Pope Francis has proclaimed a special “Year of St Joseph,” beginning on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception 2020 and extending to the same feast in 2021.

The Holy Father wrote Patris corde against the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic, which, he says, has helped us see more clearly the importance of “ordinary” people who, though far from the limelight, exercise patience and offer hope every day. In this, they resemble Saint Joseph, “the man who goes unnoticed, a daily, discreet and hidden presence,” who nonetheless played “an incomparable role in the history of salvation.”

May the Month of Mary:

The practice of honoring Mary during the month of May has been part of Catholic life for almost a thousand years and is especially recommended by the Popes. Pius XII made frequent reference to it and characterized it as one of “other exercises of piety which although not strictly belonging to the Sacred Liturgy, are nevertheless of special import and dignity, and may be considered in a certain way to be an addition to the liturgical cult: they have been approved and praised over and over again by the Apostolic See and by the Bishops”.

Paul VI wrote a short encyclical in 1965 using the Month of Mary devotion as a means of obtaining prayers for peace. He urged the faithful to make use of this practice which is “gladdening and consoling” and by which the Blessed Virgin Mary is honoured, and the Christian people are enriched with spiritual gifts”.

Pope John Paul II said, “Today we begin the month dedicated to Our Lady a favourite of popular devotion. In accord with a long-standing tradition of devotion, parishes and families continue to make the month of May a ‘Marian’ month, celebrating it with many devout liturgical, catechetical and pastoral initiatives!”

LETTER OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS TO THE FAITHFUL FOR THE MONTH OF MAY 2020

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

The month of May is approaching, a time when the People of God express with particular intensity their love and devotion for the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is traditional in this month to pray the Rosary at home within the family. The restrictions of the pandemic have made us come to appreciate all the more this “family” aspect, also from a spiritual point of view.

For this reason, I want to encourage everyone to rediscover the beauty of praying the Rosary at home in the month of May. This can be done either as a group or individually; you can decide according to your own situations, making the most of both opportunities. The key to doing this is always simplicity, and it is easy also on the internet to find good models of prayers to follow.

I am also providing two prayers to Our Lady that you can recite at the end of the Rosary, and that I, myself will pray in the month of May, in spiritual union with all of you. I include them with this letter so that they are available to everyone.

Dear brothers and sisters, contemplating the face of Christ with the heart of Mary our Mother will make us even more united as a spiritual family and will help us overcome this time of trial. I keep all of you in my prayers, especially those suffering most greatly, and I ask you, please, to pray for me. I thank you, and with great affection I send you my blessing.

Rome, Saint John Lateran, 25 April 2020
Feast of Saint Mark the Evangelist

Pope Francis

First Prayer to Our Lady

O Mary,

You shine continuously on our journey,

as a sign of salvation and hope.

We entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick,

who, at the foot of the cross,

were united with Jesus’ suffering,

and persevered in your faith.

“Protectress of the Roman people”,

you know our needs,

and we know that you will provide,

so that, as at Cana in Galilee,

joy and celebration may return,

after this time of trial.

Help us, Mother of Divine Love,

to conform ourselves to the will of the Father

and to do what Jesus tells us.

For he took upon himself our suffering,

and burdened himself with our sorrows,

to bring us, through the cross,

to the joy of the Resurrection.

Amen.

We fly to your protection, O Holy Mother of God;

Do not despise our petitions in our necessities, but deliver us always from every danger,

O Glorious and Blessed Virgin.

The second Prayer

“We fly to your protection, O Holy Mother of God”.

In the present tragic situation, when the whole world is prey to suffering and anxiety, we fly to you, Mother of God, and our Mother, and seek refuge under your protection.

Virgin Mary, turn your merciful eyes towards us amid this coronavirus pandemic. Comfort those who are distraught and mourn their loved ones who have died, and at times are buried in a way that grieves them deeply. Be close to those who are concerned for their loved ones who are sick and who, in order to prevent the spread of the disease, cannot be close to them. Fill with hope those who are troubled by the uncertainty of the future and the consequences for the economy and employment.

Mother of God and our Mother, pray for us to God, the Father of mercies, that this great suffering may end and that hope and peace may dawn anew. Plead with your divine Son, as you did at Cana, so that the families of the sick and the victims be comforted, and their hearts be opened to confidence and trust.

Protect those doctors, nurses, health workers and volunteers who are on the frontline of this emergency and are risking their lives to save others. Support their heroic effort and grant them strength, generosity, and continued health.

Be close to those who assist the sick night and day, and to priests who, in their pastoral concern and fidelity to the Gospel, are trying to help and support everyone.

Blessed Virgin, illumine the minds of men and women engaged in scientific research, that they may find effective solutions to overcome this virus.

Support national leaders, that with wisdom, solicitude, and generosity they may come to the aid of those lacking the basic necessities of life and may devise social and economic solutions inspired by farsightedness and solidarity.

Mary Most Holy, stir our consciences, so that the enormous funds invested in developing and stockpiling arms will instead be spent on promoting effective research on how to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.

Beloved Mother, help us realize that we are all members of one great family and to recognize the bond that unites us, so that, in a spirit of fraternity and solidarity, we can help to alleviate countless situations of poverty and need. Make us strong in faith, persevering in service, constant in prayer.

Mary, Consolation of the afflicted, embrace all your children in distress and pray that God will stretch out his all-powerful hand and free us from this terrible pandemic, so that life can serenely resume its normal course.

To you, who shine on our journey as a sign of salvation and hope, do we entrust ourselves, O Clement, O Loving, O Sweet Virgin Mary.

Amen.

SPUC

This month, SPUC Scotland is launching a new initiative to commemorate the gift of life and to particularly call to mind the many lives that have been lost in our country due to abortion. Our usual White Flower Appeals in parishes have been unable to take place for the last year. This is an important means to raise vital funds allowing us to defend the right to life, but it is also an opportunity for us to inform parishioners of the current issues around abortion.

New Government policies, facilitating “DIY” abortion, have made access to abortion easier than ever and have created a slippery path which many women have gone down, often with very little time to think or weigh up the gravity of their actions.

Each abortion extinguishes a tiny human life, filled with potential and each of these is a tragedy in its own right. Sadly, these lost lives are overlooked and forgotten by a society that has become numb to the scale and malice of abortion.

We want to remember each of these babies and pray that they are not forgotten but rather that their loss can compel us to save future victims of abortion.

SPUC knows that the tiny baby is the primary victim of abortion, but we also understand that there are so many others affected by it. The medics and politicians who put the framework in place to destroy life are themselves damaged in conscience by what they do and we also know that women who are put under pressure to have an abortion, can often suffer mentally and/or physically for many years after the event.

Our aim is to create a display of 14,000 flower images, one for every child lost to abortion in Scotland in one year. Bishop Toal will bless the physical display on Saturday, 22 May 2021 at Carfin Grotto when we create our ‘carpet of flowers for the unborn’.

We are hoping that individuals will be willing to sponsor a virtual flower and these can be purchased  online at www.whiteflower.org.uk

I would be most grateful if you are able to support this initiative by making your parishioners aware of it and praying for its success.

If you would like any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

The May 2021 Rosary Mission

is about to be launched with the theme:

Rosary Stronghold with the Holy Family –

Protecting our Families and the Family of Nations.

The designated Rosary Hour for the Diocese of Motherwell for the National Rosary Relay Rally on Sunday May 30th is from 7pm to 8pm and will be led by Bishop Toal.

Further details, including internet links to enable you to join in the prayer, can be found at –

https://www.rosaryonthecoast.co.uk/

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS  

4th Sunday of Easter, B

25th APRIL 2021

MASSES

9.30 a.m.                     Monday to Friday       All Saints,                   streamed

4.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          All Saints                    streamed

5.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          St. Stephen’s               —–

10.30 a.m.                   Sunday                        All Saints                    streamed

12.15 p.m.                   Sunday                        St. Stephen’s               —–

5.30 p.m.                     Sunday                        All Saints                    streamed

There will be Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from 9.00 a.m. till 9.25 a.m. Monday to Friday in All Saints Church.

THEME

First reading: Acts 4: 8-12

Filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter discovers his gift of healing. Only by the name of Jesus, he declares, can any of us be saved.

Second reading: 1 John 3: 1-2

Whatever the future may hold, we have the assurance of being God’s beloved children.  Our vocation is to grow in the Father’s likeness.

Gospel: John 10: 11-18

Like a good shepherd, Jesus is dedicated to our care and protection. He willingly laid down his life for the flock, as well as for others not  yet in his fold.

FEAST DAYS

Wednesday 28^th April             St. Peter Chanel

Thursday 29^th April                 St. Catherine of Siena

Saturday 1^st May                     St. Joseph the Worker

VOCATIONS

Today is World Day of Prayer for Vocations. Pray for those discerning a call to priesthood or religious life. Is that you?  Speak to your Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk,

email Priests for Scotland at office@pfs.org.uk, or see their website or Facebook pages (PFS or VocationNetworkScotland).

Sick & Retired Priests: 

There will be a second basket as you leave the church for the Retired & Sick Priests, Thank you for the care and concern you show to your priests who have served our parishes and diocese of Motherwell.

New Booking system for Mass

With so many people having had their vaccinations they may feel confident to return to Sunday Mass, and as the situation regarding public worship will be changing in the weeks ahead the numbers attending Mass, which at present is capped at 50, may begin to increase. With this in mind we will need to update our booking system in order to deal with the unfolding situation.

The diocese suggested using Eventbrite for Mass bookings which we hope will be up and running for next Sunday. There is a link to their site on the parish website. Bookings may be made for the following Sunday from 12 Noon on the Monday of each week.

There are places for 30/40 online bookings and walk-ins of 20/10 for each Mass: St Stephen’s 40 online bookings and 10 walk-ins, All Saints’ 30 online bookings 20 walk-ins.

I know that as numbers increase many may struggle to book/get a place. Please be patient and understanding, we are all of us in this together and must continue to support each other in this pandemic.

I would like to thank all our stewards for their invaluable service to the parish without them we could not open the church safely, and I sincerely thank Gerard for all his hard work in handing so many emails.

The link for Eventbrite to book next weekend’s Masses is:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/most-holy-trinity-masses-registration-150485928463.

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS,                             

ALSO KNOWN AS GOOD SHEPHERD SUNDAY 

Today is Good  Shepherd Sunday.

The Annual Day of Prayer for vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and religious (consecrated) life is celebrated today.

We commend this intention to your prayers in a very special way as we unite with the whole Church throughout the world in prayer.

We also ask your prayers for those in formation for the priesthood and for the priests, deacons and religious of our diocese. In Motherwell Diocese, the Collection for the Church Students Fund is taken up in September.

LETTER FROM BISHOP TOAL FOR VOCATIONS SUNDAY

This coming Sunday, 4^th Sunday of Easter, is Good Shepherd Sunday, which the Church keeps as our Day of Prayer for Vocations. I invite you all to offer your prayers on this day for Vocations to the ordained ministry and consecrated life. In his message for this Vocations Sunday, Pope Francis speaks of St Joseph, calling him protector of vocations:

“ I like to think, then, of Saint Joseph, the protector of Jesus and of the Church, as the protector of  Vocations. In fact, from his willingness to serve comes his concern to protect. The Gospel tells us that “ Joseph got up, took the child and his mother by night” (Mt 2:14), thus revealing his prompt concern for the good of his family. He wasted no time over things he could not control, in order to give  full attention to those entrusted to his care. Such thoughtful concern is the sign of a true vocation, the testimony of a life touched by The love of God. What a beautiful example of Christian life we give when we refuse to pursue our ambitions or indulge in our illusions, but instead care for what the Lord has entrusted to us through the Church! God then pours out his Spirit and creativity upon us; he works wonders in us as he did in Joseph.”

Joseph Toal +

MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS FOR THE

WORLD DAY OF VOCATIONS

These word of Pope Francis on vocations reflects on all our vocations; married, single religious or priestly. His homily is on the Gospel of the calming of the storm:  “If we let ourselves be daunted by the responsibilities that await us – whether in married life or priestly ministry – or by the hardships in store for us, then we will soon turn away from the gaze of Jesus and, like Peter, we will begin to sink. On the other hand, despite our frailty and poverty, faith enables us to walk towards the Risen Lord and to weather every storm. Whenever fatigue or fear make us start to sink, Jesus holds out his hand to us. He gives us the enthusiasm we need to live our vocation with joy and fervour.

When Jesus at last boards the boat, the winds die down and the waves are calmed. Here we have a beautiful image of what the Lord can do at times of turbulence and tempest in our lives. He stills those winds, so that the forces of evil, fear and resignation no longer have power over us.

As we live out our specific vocation, those headwinds can wear us down. Here I think of all those who have important responsibilities in civil society, spouses whom I like to refer to – not without reason – as “courageous”, and in a particular way those who have embraced the consecrated life or the priesthood. I am conscious of your hard work, the sense of isolation that can at times weigh upon your hearts, the risk of falling into a rut that can gradually make the ardent flame of our vocation die down, the burden of the uncertainty and insecurity of the times and worry about the future. Take heart, do not be afraid! Jesus is at our side, and if we acknowledge him as the one Lord of our lives, he will stretch out his hand, take hold of us and save us. (full text Vatican Website)

A Prayer for Priests:

Lord Jesus, you have chosen your priests from among us and sent them out to proclaim your word and to act in your name. For so great a gift to your Church, we give you praise and thanksgiving.

We ask you to fill them with the fire of your love, that their ministry may reveal your presence in the Church. Since they are earthen vessels, we pray that your power shine out through their weakness.

In their afflictions let them never be crushed; in their doubts never despair; in temptation never be destroyed; in persecution never abandoned. Inspire them through prayer to live each day the mystery of your dying and rising.

In times of weakness send them your Spirit and help them to praise your heavenly Father and pray for poor sinners. By the same Holy Spirit put your words on their lips and your love in their hearts, to bring good news to the poor and healing to the broken-hearted.

And may the gift of Mary your mother, to the disciple whom you loved, be your gift to every priest. Grant that she who formed you in her human image may, by the intercession, help to form them in your Divine Image by the power of the Holy Spirit, to the glory of God the Father.

Amen.

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS  

3rd Sunday of Easter, B

18th APRIL 2021

MASSES

9.30 a.m.                     Monday to Friday       All Saints,                   streamed

4.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          All Saints                    streamed

5.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          St. Stephen’s               —–

10.30 a.m.                   Sunday                        All Saints                    streamed

12.15 p.m.                   Sunday                        St. Stephen’s               —–

5.30 p.m.                     Sunday                        All Saints                    streamed

There will be Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from 9.00 a.m. till 9.25 a.m. Monday to Friday in All Saints Church.

THEME

First reading: Acts 4: 8-12

Filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter discovers his gift of healing. Only by the name of Jesus, he declares, can any of us be saved.

Second reading: 1 John 3: 1-2

Whatever the future may hold, we have the assurance of being God’s beloved children.  Our vocation is to grow in the Father’s likeness.

Gospel: John 10: 11-18

Like a good shepherd, Jesus is dedicated to our care and protection. He willingly laid down his life for the flock, as well as for others not  yet in his fold.

FEAST DAYS

Wednesday 28^th April             St. Peter Chanel

Thursday 29^th April                 St. Catherine of Siena

Saturday 1^st May                     St. Joseph the Worker

VOCATIONS

Today is World Day of Prayer for Vocations. Pray for those discerning a call to priesthood or religious life. Is that you?  Speak to your Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk,

email Priests for Scotland at office@pfs.org.uk, or see their website or Facebook pages (PFS or VocationNetworkScotland).

Sick & Retired Priests: There will be a second basket as you leave the church for the Retired & Sick Priests, Thank you for the care and concern you show to your priests who have served our parishes and diocese of Motherwell.

New Booking system for Mass

With so many people having had their vaccinations they may feel confident to return to Sunday Mass, and as the situation regarding public worship will be changing in the weeks ahead the numbers attending Mass, which at present is capped at 50, may begin to increase. With this in mind we will need to update our booking system in order to deal with the unfolding situation.

The diocese suggested using Eventbrite for Mass bookings which we hope will be up and running for next Sunday. There is a link to their site on the parish website. Bookings may be made for the following Sunday from 12 Noon on the Monday of each week.

There are places for 30/40 online bookings and walk-ins of 20/10 for each Mass: St Stephen’s 40 online bookings and 10 walk-ins, All Saints’ 30 online bookings 20 walk-ins.

I know that as numbers increase many may struggle to book/get a place. Please be patient and understanding, we are all of us in this together and must continue to support each other in this pandemic.

I would like to thank all our stewards for their invaluable service to the parish without them we could not open the church safely, and I sincerely thank Gerard for all his hard work in handing so many emails.

The link for Eventbrite to book next weekend’s Masses is:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/most-holy-trinity-masses-registration-150485928463.

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS,                             

ALSO KNOWN AS GOOD SHEPHERD SUNDAY 

Today is Good  Shepherd Sunday.

The Annual Day of Prayer for vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and religious (consecrated) life is celebrated today.

We commend this intention to your prayers in a very special way as we unite with the whole Church throughout the world in prayer.

We also ask your prayers for those in formation for the priesthood and for the priests, deacons and religious of our diocese. In Motherwell Diocese, the Collection for the Church Students Fund is taken up in September.

LETTER FROM BISHOP TOAL FOR VOCATIONS SUNDAY

This coming Sunday, 4^th Sunday of Easter, is Good Shepherd Sunday, which the Church keeps as our Day of Prayer for Vocations. I invite you all to offer your prayers on this day for Vocations to the ordained ministry and consecrated life. In his message for this Vocations Sunday, Pope Francis speaks of St Joseph, calling him protector of vocations:

“ I like to think, then, of Saint Joseph, the protector of Jesus and of the Church, as the protector of  Vocations. In fact, from his willingness to serve comes his concern to protect. The Gospel tells us that “ Joseph got up, took the child and his mother by night” (Mt 2:14), thus revealing his prompt concern for the good of his family. He wasted no time over things he could not control, in order to give  full attention to those entrusted to his care. Such thoughtful concern is the sign of a true vocation, the testimony of a life touched by The love of God. What a beautiful example of Christian life we give when we refuse to pursue our ambitions or indulge in our illusions, but instead care for what the Lord has entrusted to us through the Church! God then pours out his Spirit and creativity upon us; he works wonders in us as he did in Joseph.”

Joseph Toal +

MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS FOR THE

WORLD DAY OF VOCATIONS

These word of Pope Francis on vocations reflects on all our vocations; married, single religious or priestly. His homily is on the Gospel of the calming of the storm:  “If we let ourselves be daunted by the responsibilities that await us – whether in married life or priestly ministry – or by the hardships in store for us, then we will soon turn away from the gaze of Jesus and, like Peter, we will begin to sink. On the other hand, despite our frailty and poverty, faith enables us to walk towards the Risen Lord and to weather every storm. Whenever fatigue or fear make us start to sink, Jesus holds out his hand to us. He gives us the enthusiasm we need to live our vocation with joy and fervour.

When Jesus at last boards the boat, the winds die down and the waves are calmed. Here we have a beautiful image of what the Lord can do at times of turbulence and tempest in our lives. He stills those winds, so that the forces of evil, fear and resignation no longer have power over us.

As we live out our specific vocation, those headwinds can wear us down. Here I think of all those who have important responsibilities in civil society, spouses whom I like to refer to – not without reason – as “courageous”, and in a particular way those who have embraced the consecrated life or the priesthood. I am conscious of your hard work, the sense of isolation that can at times weigh upon your hearts, the risk of falling into a rut that can gradually make the ardent flame of our vocation die down, the burden of the uncertainty and insecurity of the times and worry about the future. Take heart, do not be afraid! Jesus is at our side, and if we acknowledge him as the one Lord of our lives, he will stretch out his hand, take hold of us and save us. (full text Vatican Website)

A Prayer for Priests:

Lord Jesus, you have chosen your priests from among us and sent them out to proclaim your word and to act in your name. For so great a gift to your Church, we give you praise and thanksgiving.

We ask you to fill them with the fire of your love, that their ministry may reveal your presence in the Church. Since they are earthen vessels, we pray that your power shine out through their weakness.

In their afflictions let them never be crushed; in their doubts never despair; in temptation never be destroyed; in persecution never abandoned. Inspire them through prayer to live each day the mystery of your dying and rising.

In times of weakness send them your Spirit and help them to praise your heavenly Father and pray for poor sinners. By the same Holy Spirit put your words on their lips and your love in their hearts, to bring good news to the poor and healing to the broken-hearted.

And may the gift of Mary your mother, to the disciple whom you loved, be your gift to every priest. Grant that she who formed you in her human image may, by the intercession, help to form them in your Divine Image by the power of the Holy Spirit, to the glory of God the Father.

Amen.

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS  

3rd Sunday of Easter, B

18th APRIL 2021

MASSES

9.30 a.m.                     Monday to Friday       All Saints,                   streamed

4.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          All Saints                    streamed

5.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          St. Stephen’s               —–

10.30 a.m.                   Sunday                        All Saints                    streamed

12.15 p.m.                   Sunday                        St. Stephen’s               —–

5.30 p.m.                     Sunday                        All Saints                    streamed

 THEME

First reading: Acts 3: 13-15. 17-19

Peter proclaims the good news that God raised Jesus from the dead for our forgiveness.

Second reading: 1 John 2: 1-5

Jesus is the sacrifice who takes our sins away.

Gospel: Luke 24: 35-48

The disciples are stupefied to encounter a very physical Jesus, risen from the dead.

FEAST DAYS

Wednesday 21st                      St. Anselm

Friday 23^rd                              St. George

Sunday 25^th                             World Day of Prayer for Vocations

VOCATIONS

Just as Jesus opened the minds and hearts of the disciples to understand the Scriptures, you could be called to help others discover Christ in his word. This is the vocation of the priest, deacon and religious.

Speak to your Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk,

email Priests for Scotland at office@pfs.org.uk, or see their website or Facebook pages (PFS or VocationNetworkScotland).

New Booking system for Mass

With so many people having had their vaccinations they may feel confident to return to Sunday Mass,

and as the situation regarding public worship will be changing in the weeks ahead the numbers attending Mass,

which at present is capped at 50, may begin to increase.

With this in mind we will need to update our booking system in order to deal with the unfolding situation.

The diocese suggested using Eventbrite for Mass bookings which we hope will be up and running for next Sunday.

There is a link to their site on the parish website.

Bookings may be made for the following Sunday from 12 Noon on the Monday of each week.

There are places for 30/40 online bookings and walk-ins of 20/10 for each Mass:

St Stephen’s 40 online bookings and 10 walk-ins,

All Saints’ 30 online bookings 20 walk-ins.

I know that as numbers increase many may struggle to book/get a place.

Please be patient and understanding, we are all of us in this together and must continue to support each other in this pandemic.

I would like to thank all our stewards for their invaluable service to the parish

without them we could not open the church safely,

and I sincerely thank Gerard for all his hard work

in handing so many emails.

BIBLE REFLECTION

Jesus in today’s Gospel teaches His apostles how to interpret the Scriptures.

He tells them that all the Scriptures of what we now call the Old Testament refer to Him. He says that all the promises found in the Old Testament have been fulfilled in His Passion, death, and Resurrection. And He tells them that these Scriptures foretell the mission of the Church—to preach forgiveness of sins to all the nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

In today’s First Reading and Epistle, we see the beginnings of that mission. And we see the apostles interpreting the Scriptures as Jesus taught them to.

God has brought to fulfilment what He announced beforehand in all the prophets, Peter preaches. His sermon is shot through with Old Testament images. He evokes Moses and the Exodus, in which
God revealed himself as the ancestral God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (see Exodus 3:6, 15). He identifies Jesus as Isaiah’s suffering servant who has been glorified (see Isaiah 52:13).

John, too, describes Jesus in Old Testament terms. Alluding to how Israel’s priests offered blood sacrifices to atone for the people’s sins (see Leviticus 16; Hebrews 9–10), he says that Jesus intercedes for us before God (see Romans 8:34), and that His blood is a sacrificial expiation for the sins of the world (see 1 John 1:7).

Notice that in all three readings, the Scriptures are interpreted to serve and advance the Church’s mission—to reveal the truth about Jesus, to bring people to repentance, the wiping away of sins, and the perfection of their love for God.

This is how we, too, should hear the Scriptures. Not to know more “about” Jesus, but to truly know Him personally, and to know His plan for our lives.

In the Scriptures, the light of His face shines upon us, as we sing in today’s Psalm. We know the wonders He has done throughout history. And we have the confidence to call to Him, and to know that He hears and answers.

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS,                             

ALSO KNOWN AS GOOD SHEPHERD SUNDAY 

Next Sunday, 25^th April, is Good  Shepherd Sunday.

The purpose of World Day of Prayer for Vocations is to publicly fulfil the   Lord’s instruction to, “Pray the Lord of the harvest to send labourers into his harvest” (Mt 9:38; Lk 10:2). As a climax to a prayer that is continually offered throughout the Church, it affirms the primacy of faith and grace in all that concerns vocations to the priesthood and to the consecrated life.  While appreciating all vocations, the Church concentrates its attention this day on vocations to the ordained ministries (priesthood and diaconate), consecrated life in all its forms (male and female religious life, societies of apostolic life, consecrated virginity), secular institutes in their diversity of services and membership, and to the missionary life.

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS  

2nd Sunday of Easter, B

11th APRIL 2021

MASSES

9.30 a.m.                     Monday to Friday       All Saints,                   streamed

4.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          All Saints                    streamed

5.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          St. Stephen’s               —–

10.30 a.m.                   Sunday                        All Saints                    streamed

12.15 p.m.                   Sunday                        St. Stephen’s               —–

5.30 p.m.                     Sunday                        All Saints                    streamed

 THEME

First reading: Acts 4: 32-35

The early Church, gathered together, is shown as a foundation for prayer, unity and the sharing of goods for the good of all.

Second reading: 1 John 5: 1-6     

Love of God is revealed in love of one’s neighbour.

Gospel: John 20: 19-31

The doubting apostle, Thomas, discovers new faith in the risen Christ.

VOCATIONS

Could you be called to be like the apostles, who testified to the resurrection of Jesus with great power, building up the community of faith as a diocesan priest, a deacon or religious? Speak to your Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk,

email Priests for Scotland at office@pfs.org.uk, or see their website or Facebook pages (PFS or VocationNetworkScotland).

SCIAF BOXES should be returned as soon as possible.  Thank you.

All donations received by 11^th Mary 2021 will be doubled by the UK Government.

No public masson Monday or Thursday of next week to accommodate two funerals.

Please pray for the blessed repose of Thomas Kennedy

whose funeral takes place on Monday and 

Agnes Bonner whose funeral takes place on Thursday

both at 9 30 am.

Divine Mercy Sunday

Three times in today’s Psalm we cry out a victory shout: “His mercy endures forever.”

Truly we’ve known the everlasting love of God, who has come to us as our Savior. By the blood and water that flowed from Jesus’ pierced side (see John 19:34), we’ve been made God’s children, as we hear in today’s Epistle.

Yet we never met Jesus, never heard Him teach, never saw Him raised from the dead. His saving Word came to us in the Church—through the ministry of the apostles, who in today’s Gospel are sent as He was sent.

He was made a life-giving Spirit (see 1 Corinthians 15:45) and He filled His apostles with that Spirit. As we hear in today’s First Reading, they bore witness to His resurrection with great power. And through their witness, handed down in the Church through the centuries, their teaching and traditions have reached us (see Acts 2:42).

We encounter Him as the apostles did—in the breaking of the bread on the Lord’s day (see Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2; Revelation 1:10).

There is something liturgical about the way today’s Gospel scenes unfold. It’s as if John is trying to show us how the risen Lord comes to us in the liturgy and sacraments.

In both scenes it is Sunday night. The doors are bolted tight, yet Jesus mysteriously comes. He greets them with an expression, “Peace be with you,” used elsewhere by divine messengers (see Daniel 10:19; Judges 6:23). He shows them signs of His real bodily presence. And on both nights the disciples respond by joyfully receiving Jesus as their “Lord.”

Isn’t this what happens in the Mass—where our Lord speaks to us in His Word, and gives himself to us in the sacrament of His body and blood?

Let us approach the altar with joy, knowing that every Eucharist is the day the Lord has made—when the victory of Easter is again made wonderful in our eyes.

From the diary of St Faustina “O Greatly Merciful God, Infinite Goodness, today all mankind calls out from the abyss of its misery to Your mercy, to Your compassion, O God; and it is with a mighty voice of misery that it cries out. Gracious God do not reject the prayer of this earth’s exiles! O Lord, Goodness beyond our understanding, Who are acquainted with our misery through and through and know that by our own power we cannot ascend to You, we implore You: fill us with Your grace and keep on increasing Your mercy in us, that we may faithfully do Your holy will all through our lives and at the hour of death. Let the omnipotence of Your mercy shield us from the darts of our salvation’s enemies, that we may with confidence, as Your children, await Your final coming…” (Diary, 1570).

 Sincere Thanks to all our stewards and those who assisted with the booking of places over all the services of Holy Week and the Paschal Triduum. As you can imagine it was quite an undertaking as we had so many services in both churches: so sincere thanks to all who assisted us to open for Holy Week/Easter. It was a great blessing to get back at such a special time.

We also look forward to some new guidelines in the coming weeks that may allow us to open up a little more.

We will also be celebrating the sacraments of Confirmation, First Communion and First Reconciliation with the children, please remember them in your prayers.

Scottish Parliament Election 2021 – Putting Human Life and  Dignity at the Centre

A letter from the Catholic Bishops of Scotland

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

This election presents us with an opportunity to play our part in putting human life and the inviolable dignity of the human person at the centre of Scotland’s political discourse.

We often see politics through a party prism, which can create a divisive, and occasionally fractious, political environment. Whilst party politics can be an important consideration, particularly in the Scottish Parliament list system, it is individuals who will make up the parliament and form a government; and some of the most important issues, including abortion and assisted suicide, are commonly decided by a conscience, or free, vote. Therefore, it is critical to ascertain candidates’ personal values and opinions and not concentrate solely on party policies.

As Catholics we have a duty: to share the Gospel and to help form the public conscience on key moral issues. It is a duty of both faith and citizenship.  This election is an opportunity to be the effective witness our Baptism calls us to be.

The new parliament and government will be tasked with leading the recovery from the damage wrought by the current health crisis and to tackle the significant impact it has had on many aspects of life including health care, mental health and wellbeing, religious freedom, and care for the poor. It must also build on the positives arising from the Pandemic, including caring for the most vulnerable, and a renewed sense of respect for human life, human dignity, and the value of community.

These are some of the issues you may want to consider in the forthcoming election:

Beginning and end of life

It is the duty of parliamentarians to uphold the most basic and fundamental human right to life. Elected representatives ought to recognise the existence of human life from the moment of conception and be committed to the protection of human life at every stage. Caring for the unborn and their mothers is a fundamental measure of a caring and compassionate society; a society which puts human dignity at the centre.

We ought to be mindful of a further attempt to legalise assisted suicide in Scotland, likely to happen in this parliament. Legalising assisted suicide or euthanasia suggests that some lives are not worth living, contrary to the Christian belief that every life has equal dignity and value. It is incumbent upon our parliamentarians to show compassion for the sick and dying. This is not achieved by assisted suicide or euthanasia but by ensuring support is provided through caring and attentive politics, including investment in palliative care.

Family and Work

Society relies on the building block of the family to exist and flourish. The love of man and woman in marriage and openness to new life is the basic, fundamental cell upon which every society is built. The wellbeing of Scotland and its future depends on the flourishing of family life and government should respond to this reality with policies creating economic and fiscal advantages for families with children.

The pandemic has placed immeasurable pressure on businesses and many people have lost their livelihood. The state has a duty to sustain business activities by creating conditions which will ensure job opportunities, especially in times of crisis. This must be accompanied by a just wage to provide a dignified livelihood for the worker and their family.

Poverty, Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery

Sadly, poverty remains a scourge for too many people. The marginalised, the homeless, and the lonely and isolated have been cast further adrift because of the pandemic. And poverty now affects 24% of children in Scotland. We need elected representatives who respect a preferential option for the poor, who are willing to prioritise their need and respect their human dignity.

Our government must also work with the international community to adopt an even more effective strategy against human trafficking and modern slavery, so that in every part of the world, men and women may no longer be used as a means to an end, and that their inviolable dignity will always be respected.

Environment

The next group of MSPs will be tasked with protecting our neighbours at home and abroad from the poverty and climate crises which continue to rage on. In November Glasgow will play host to the COP26 international climate change summit. We should listen to Pope Francis’ call to ‘hear the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor’ by lifting up the voices of the global south and coming together to rebuild our Common Home in a way that leaves no-one behind. Scotland can also demonstrate global leadership by strengthening its commitment to becoming a carbon neutral country.

Free speech, free expression, and freedom of thought, conscience and religion

If Scotland is to be a tolerant, open, diverse country then we must be free to discuss and debate ideas, even those which are deemed by some to be controversial. Whilst being mindful of the need to protect citizens from hate, government must not overstep into the realm of unjust restrictions on free speech, free expression and freedom of thought, conscience and religion. This must include, among others, the freedom to express belief in the biological reality of sex and gender.

Catholic schools

The right of parents to choose a school for their children which corresponds to their own convictions is fundamental. Public authorities have a duty to guarantee this parental right and to ensure the concrete conditions for its exercise. Thus, parliamentarians ought to continue to support an open and diverse state education system which includes Catholic schools.

We pray that this election will put human life and the dignity of the human person at the centre, and that candidates will ensure debate is respectful and courteous.

We urge you to visit the website rcpolitics.org and to use the resources there to help you in your consideration of election issues and to use the tools available to question candidates.

+ Hugh Gilbert, President, Bishop of Aberdeen

+ John Keenan, Vice President, Bishop of Paisley

+ Brian McGee, Episcopal Secretary, Bishop of Argyll and the Isles

+ Leo Cushley, Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh

+ Joseph Toal, Bishop of Motherwell

+ Stephen Robson, Bishop of Dunkeld

+ William Nolan, Bishop of Galloway

Monsignor Hugh Bradley, Archdiocesan Administrator, Archdiocese of Glasgow

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                      

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS  

EASTER SUNDAY, B

4th APRIL 2021

MASSES

All the Sunday Masses from All Saints Church, including the Vigil Mass,

will now be streamed.

The 9.30 a.m. Mass each weekday from All Saints Church,

will also be streamed.

THEME

First reading: Acts 10: 34. 37-43

Peter speaks to the household members of the Roman Centurion, Cornelius.  He gives an outline of the story of Jesus and emphasises that his preaching is trustworthy as he has experienced the risen Jesus for himself.

Second reading: 1 Colossians 3: 1-4

Our life as Christians should be centred on the person of the risen Christ, ad this should influence the way we think and behave.

Gospel: John 20: 1-9

Mary Magdalene finds the tomb of Jesus open and empty and goes to inform Peter and the disciple Jesus loved.  They visit the grave but only the beloved disciple understands what has happened.

MASSES:

9.30 a.m.                     Monday to Friday       All Saints,

4.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          All Saints

5.30 p.m.                     Saturday (Vigil)          St. Stephen’s

10.30 a.m.                   Sunday                        All Saints

12.15 p.m.                   Sunday                        St. Stephen’s

5.30 p.m.                     Sunday                        All Saints

BROADCAST OF MASSES ON BBC SCOTLAND

at 12 noon    Easter Sunday  from 

St. Mirin’s Cathedral, Paisley

The broadcasts can be viewed on the channels listed here and subsequently on iPlayer.

Freeview and YouView, Channel 9;  SKY Channel 115, Freesat Channel 106 and Virgin Media Channel 108.

🌷___________________________________

EASTER MESSAGE TO THE FAITHFUL

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As we look forward to Holy Week, beginning this weekend with Palm Sunday, it is with much relief that we can now return to the public celebration of our faith, and I extend a very warm welcome to those who will venture out to Mass, while reassuring those who will remain at home that you are very much in our prayers. The celebration of Holy Mass, and our participation in it, are at the centre of our Catholic faith, and not being able to be physically present during the lockdowns of the past year has been a trial. Hopefully, we now return in good spirit and with renewed energy and commitment to share in the Lord’s goodness to us and to thank him for his blessings.

The last year has been a difficult time, and we need to pray that the seeds of recovery will continue to grow and that we can regain some of what has been lost, as well as appreciating all that has been learned. Life always moves on and we do need to adapt to our changed circumstances and the requirements now placed upon us. These do require continued vigilance and patience as we strive to protect one another and ensure our churches are safe as well as welcoming.

We keep in our memory and prayers all who have suffered because of the pandemic, particularly those who have been seriously ill, those who have lost loved ones, those distressed or isolated, all whose lives have been badly disrupted. We pray also for those who have died trusting that they will share in the Lord’s Resurrection, the celebration of which we look forward to on Easter Day. We offer prayers of gratitude for all who have given so much of themselves in caring for others, especially the sick and those in need of care and protection. The efforts made by so many, both professionally and voluntarily, have been inspiring and have ensured that our services have been maintained and that there is the possibility of recovery and renewal.

Through Holy Week we follow Our Lord’s path of suffering and unite our own life experience with his, thus gaining strength to carry our crosses and the trials that come our way, while quietly coming to terms with our own humanity, its fragility and inevitable end here on earth. As we move from the pain and sadness of the Lord’s Passion and Death on Holy Thursday Evening and Good Friday, we look forward with renewed faith to the joy of Easter and our firm hope of sharing in his Resurrection. The possibility of being present at Mass again and of receiving Our Lord in Holy Communion will surely bring much consolation and blessing as we seek to grow in love of him and each other. May his words to the disciples at the Last Supper – “Love one another, just as I have loved you” –  resonate in our hearts and minds as we renew our baptismal promises and our desire to be faithful witnesses to Jesus in our own time.

Although the numbers attending will be restricted, I will concelebrate the Annual Mass of Chrism with some of the Diocesan priests in Our Lady of Good Aid Cathedral on Holy Thursday, April 1st, at 11am. The Mass will be live streamed by Sancta Familia Media and will also be available through the Diocesan Media. I invite you to follow the Chrism Mass, during which the Oils will be blessed, and the priests will renew their Priestly Promises, and to pray with us and for us.

I pray for the Lord’s blessing  upon you and all your loved ones this Easter, thinking also of the people of our own country and, indeed, of every country in our world. May we feel the protection of God over, among and within us, and may the light of the Risen Lord bring new hope to places and moments of darkness and uncertainty. May the intercession of Our Blessed Lady and St Joseph also bring protection and solace and keep us in communion with Our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

Yours in Christ

+ Joseph Toal

EASTER MESSAGE

“He is not here; he has risen!” Luke 24:6-7 we find in those words of the Angel at the tomb on Easter Sunday the central truth of our Christian faith. We are an Easter People defined and sustained by our central belief that death, sin and suffering never have the last word in our lives. For Christ by his victory over death has vanquished the darkness of death forever and brought hope and light to every darkness and despair.

This message is, perhaps, more important to hear than at any other time  before, as we emerge from lockdown and begin to tentatively take up our lives again. It has been a very challenging and difficult time for all of us, and now new beginnings can be made. At last, we can begin to meet up again with friends and families, under the appropriate safeguards and guidelines, and thankfully return to Holy Mass and the public profession of our faith. For many of us, this may be the first time in our lives we have been separated from the consolation of the Mass and the sacraments.

On Holy Thursday, the Church commemorated the institution of the Eucharist, when on the night he was betrayed, Jesus left us the perpetual memorial of His sacrifice on the Cross and His true abiding presence among us. May the separation we have all so keenly felt in these days, when our Churches were closed, and public worship suspended remind us of the essential importance of the Mass. For it is here, in the breaking of bread that we meet the Risen Lord, who comes bring new life and fresh beginnings to all of us.

May God abundantly bless you in this Easter Season.

Fr Thomas Doyle

✝✝✝✝✝✝✝✝✝✝✝✝

‘Knowing Jesus’ –  an online retreat for Lent 2021

Ignatian Spirituality Centre, Glasgow

“Get to know and love Jesus Christ better in order to live a deeper and more authentic Christian life of service.
Jesus was quite a character with a message and way of acting that was as counter-cultural in his day as it would be in ours. Going back to the roots of Christianity to the man who is its foundation gives a deeper understanding of what the faith is really about and a challenge for living.

The retreat for 2021 continues until the First Sunday of Easter, 11th April.

Further information from www.iscglasgow.co.uk, then  click on Lent Retreat.         

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                      

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS  

PALM SUNDAY, B

28thMarch 2021

MASSES

Due to the present lockdown, on Sundays only the 10.30 a.m. Mass will be streamed from All Saints Church until further notice.

The 9.30 a.m. Mass each weekday will also be streamed.

THEME 

First reading: Isaiah 50: 4-7

The Lord does not cover his face against insult and spittle.

Second reading: Philippians 2:6-11

God  raised him high, so that every tongue should proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord.

Gospel: Mark 14: 1—15:4-7

Mark tells the story of the passion and death of Jesus Christ.

Palm/Passion Sunday

In the liturgy of Palm Sunday, we commemorate two important events in the closing days of Jesus’ earthly life: his entry into Jerusalem and his trial and crucifixion at the end of that week. They make an uneasy combination.

At the beginning of the week, we see Jesus being welcomed into Jerusalem by the joyful crowds who sing ‘Hosanna to the Son of David’. The introduction to this Mass described this entry as a ‘triumph’. A ‘triumph’ was awarded to a victorious general in ancient Rome: but Jesus’ was a curious kind of ‘triumph’ if it is compared to the triumph awarded to a conquering hero entering Rome. Jesus is not preceded by his massed troops marching side-by-side; the spoils of war are not displayed for all to see; the conquered people are not paraded for the jeering crowds. At this moment Jesus has claimed the attention and affection of the crowd. Although he is only mounted on a colt the crowds still claim him as the ‘Son of David’, they recognise him as the rightful king of the Jews, the Messiah. And their cries mean that Jesus is brought once again to the attention of the Roman authorities as everyone prepares for the feast of the Passover, the feast when Jewish longings for independence came to a head, when the whole city was as apt to explode into rioting as it was to settle to the religious rites associated with the commemoration of the exodus of the Jewish people out of Egypt into the Promised Land.

At the end of the week, we see Jesus betrayed, arrested, tried, condemned and crucified – as he had known he would be. The crowds had been turned against him, the Roman authorities manipulated, his disciples cowed into denial and desertion. Alone he was taken to Golgotha and there, stripped and crucified, he accepted the fate of all mankind – to enter the gates of death – but death was being transformed: there is nothing whatever to celebrate in the Passion of Christ unless we hold on to this central fact. Death was and remains transformed: from being the gateway to the underworld it has become the gateway into eternal life for all who believe in the name of him whose name is above all other names so that all beings in the heavens, on earth, and in the underworld, should bend the knee at the name of Jesus and every tongue should acclaim Jesus Christ as Lord to the glory of God the Father (cf. Philippians 2.9-11).

What, then, does it mean to believe in the name of Jesus? How is this to be made visible in our lives? Let us listen once more to the words of the scriptures which have been presented to us today: Each morning when we wake, for as long as we walk upon this earth, the Lord wakes us to hear, to listen like a disciple (cf. Isaiah 50.4). We listen in the first place to the Word of God in Scripture. We listen when we set aside time for prayer. We listen when we take account of the needs of those around us. The Scriptures announce that we have been given the tongue of a disciple. We have been provided with speech so that we know how to encourage and sustain the weary (cf. Isaiah 50.4).

When we look at ourselves, we know that we often fall short of these ideals. Let us not be discouraged. The Gospel today places before us a series of pen-pictures of men and women in the course of the Passion narrative. We are presented with the woman who anoints the feet of the Lord; with Judas as he betrays Jesus to the Chief Priests, with the disciples preparing the Last Supper and sharing it with the Lord. We have seen the Lord’s chosen three asleep whilst he suffered in the Garden, we have seen the guards who arrested him, Peter denying him, Pilate confused and weak – but eventually bowing to the popular demand for blood. We have seen Jesus mocked and tortured by the soldiers. We have seen Simon of Cyrene carrying the cross. We have seen the soldiers crucifying Jesus upon the cross. We have seen the women watching, praying, suffering with Christ from afar. And the truth is that at different times we are all of these people. When we pause to reflect, when we are honest with ourselves, we know that we are all of these people. It is not easy to admit that we have been asleep when others, in whom we should have seen the face of Christ, have suffered. It is not easy to reveal that we, too, have denied our Saviour. In short it is not easy to say that we have betrayed our Christian baptism. But if we are human disciples of Jesus it is most likely that we are no better than the first disciples: we, too, have been called by the Lord, but we, too, are a motley crew who depend on the saving power of God if we are to do anything right, if we are to retrace in our lives the footsteps of Jesus Christ.

Holy Thursday Reflection

The instruction in the Roman Missal for The Mass of Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday Evening gives the following instruction: “According to the ancient tradition of the Church, all Masses without the participation of the people are forbidden on this day.” It is a measure of the uniqueness of our time that extraordinary permission has been granted by the Holy See for priests to celebrate this Solemn Mass of the Lord’s Supper in private without a congregation. That the ancient tradition of the Church prohibited this, points to the communal nature of the Eucharist itself. For the Eucharist builds up the family of the Church, nourishes our unity and calls us to service. This point is underlined by the poignant ceremony of the Washing of the Feet that reminds us that at the heart of the Eucharist and Christian life is the instruction our Lord gave on this night: ‘Do you understand ‘what I have done to you? You call me Master and Lord, and rightly; so, I am. If I, then, the Lord and Master, have washed your feet, you should wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example so that you may copy what I have done to you.’

This beautiful line from St John Gospel underlines the importance of this moment when it says, “He had always loved those who were his in the world, but now he showed how perfect his love was.” The perfection of his love is shown in the washing of his disciple’s feet, in the institution of the Eucharist and also in the institution of the Priesthood of the New Testament. On this sacred and holy night of Passover when our Saviour became for us the sacrifice, which takes away our sins: he instructed his disciples and in turn his priests down through the ages to “DO THIS IN MEMORY OF ME.” Thus, he instituted the Priesthood of the New Testament, as a ministry of humble service and selfless love.

“Stay Here and Keep Watch with Me” ordinarily after the Mass of the Lord’s Supper we would process to Altar of Repose, a sign of the Lord’s movement from the Upper Room to the Garden of Gethsemane where he underwent the Agony in the Garden. It was there that he instructed his disciples to “Stay awake and keep watch with me” they of course failed him three times and fell asleep. Let us take to heart the Lord’s instruction and remain a while with him, as he endures his agony. Perhaps, it might be most appropriate here to remember in our prayers the sick and dying at this time of pandemic.

Instruction on Holy Thursday for The Ceremonial of Bishops

 With this Mass, celebrated in the evening of the Thursday in Holy Week, the Church begins the sacred Easter Triduum and devotes herself to the remembrance of the Last Supper. At the super on the night he was betrayed, the Lord Jesus, loving those who were his own in the world even to the end, offered his Body and Blood to the Father under the appearance of bread and wine, gave them to the apostles to eat and drink, then enjoined the apostles and their successors in the priesthood to offer them in turn.

 This Mass is, first of all, the memorial of the institution of the eucharist, that is, of the Memorial of the Lord’s Passover, by which under sacramental signs he perpetuated among us the sacrifice of the New Law. The Mass of the Lord’s Supper is also the memorial of the institution of the priesthood, by which Christ’s mission and sacrifice are perpetuated in the world. In addition, this Mass is the memorial of that love by which the Lord loved us even to death.

Why is Holy Thursday sometimes called “Maundy Thursday”?

The word “Maundy” is derived from the Latin word mandatum, or “mandate.”

This word is used in the Latin text for John 13:34:

“Mandatum novum do vobis ut diligatis invicem sicut dilexi vos.”

Or, in English:

“A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you.”

Holy Thursday is thus sometimes called Maundy Thursday because it was on this day that Christ gave us the new commandment–the new mandate–to love one another as he loves us.

Good Friday is a Day of Fast & Abstinence

The Paschal Triduum:

Often called the Easter Triduum or simply the Triduum, begins during Holy Week, and consists of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Sunday. This includes the Great Easter Vigil, the high point of the Triduum. The word Triduum comes from the Latin word meaning “three days.” It begins the evening of Maundy Thursday and ends at Evening Prayer on Easter Sunday. Thus, the Triduum consists of three full days which begin and end in the evening. The Triduum technically is not part of Lent (at least liturgically), but Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday are still reckoned as part of the traditional forty-day Lenten fast. The Triduum celebrates the heart of our faith, salvation, and redemption: the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Thus, the Triduum commemorates the Institution of the Eucharist (the “sacrament of sacraments”), the passion, crucifixion, death of the Lord, his descent to the dead, and finally his glorious resurrection on Easter Sunday morning. Along with the Ascension, these important events make up the Paschal Mystery.

Thus, even though the liturgical year begins chronologically at Advent, it reaches its culmination during the Easter Triduum, particularly at Easter, the “solemnity of solemnities,” the “Great Feast.” The Catholic Catechism describes the importance of the Triduum:

Beginning with the Easter Triduum as its source of light, the new age of the Resurrection fills the whole liturgical year with its brilliance. Gradually, on either side of this source, the year is transfigured by the liturgy. It really is a “year of the Lord’s favour.” The economy of salvation is at work within the framework of time, but since its fulfillment in the Passover of Jesus and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the culmination of history is anticipated “as a foretaste,” and the kingdom of God enters into our time.

Chrism Mass

The Bishop will concelebrate the Chrism Mass in the Cathedral on Holy Thursday, 1^st April, at 11.00 am.  The Mass will be live streamed by Sancta Familia Media and on the Diocesan Facebook page www.facebook.com/rcmotherwell  and It will also be available on the Diocesan website, www.rcdom.org.uk,

HOLY WEEK SERVICES

Saturday Vigil Mass of Palm Sunday

All Saints’ Church 4 30 p.m.                                                                                       

St. Stephen’s 5 30 p.m.

Palm Sunday

All Saints’ Church 10 30 a.m.                  

St Stephen’s 12 15 p.m.

All Saints’ 5 30 p.m.

Monday – Wednesday of Holy Week

All Saints Mass at 9 30 a.m.   There will be Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, before Mass, each day from 9.00 a.m. until just before Mass. Stations of the Cross will take place immediately after Mass each day.                                                                                      

St Stephen’s Mass at 6.30 p.m.

Holy Thursday                                                                      

All Saints’ Mass of the Lord’s Supper 7.00p.m.          

St Stephen’s Mass of the Lord’s Supper 7.00 p.m.

Good Friday

All Saints’ Solemn Liturgy of the Passion 3.00 p.m.                      

St Stephen’s Solemn Liturgy of the Passion 3.00 pm

All Saint’s Stations of the Cross 7 p.m.

There will be no kissing of the Cross on Good  Friday.

 A collection for the Holy Places will be taken up in All Saints’ Church and

 St. Stephen’s Church during the Good Friday Services.

Easter Vigil (Saturday Evening)

All Saints’ 8.00  p.m.                                                             

St Stephen’s Easter Vigil (Saturday Evening) 8.00 p.m.

Easter Sunday

All Saints’ 10. 30 a.m., 12 Noon & 5 30 p.m.                                                                

St Stephen’s 10 30a.m & 12 Noon

CONFESSIONS will be heard in the Sacristy,

after morning Mass in All Saints Church during Holy Week and

after evening Mass in St. Stephen’s Church during Holy Week.

DIVINE OFFICE: 

Morning Prayer and Night Prayer for Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy       Saturday are available on the Latest News Section of our website.

MARY’S MEALS

“Thanks to your incredible support Mary’s Meals is now reaching 1,838,859 children with life-changing meals while they learn!

Last March when schools began to close due to the pandemic, we worked hard to adapt our feeding model so we could continue to bring nutritious daily meals to those hungry children already relying on us. Despite these challenges we’re delighted that we have kept our promise to the children we feed, whether in school or at home, and in addition have also welcomed 171,792 new children to our programme since the beginning of 2020.   This wonderful news has only been made possible by your generosity and the many little acts of love you have carried out, taking us closer to a day when all children have enough to eat and can go to school. However, the need is still great, with millions more children waiting for a daily meal and the chance to learn. Your ongoing support means we can reach many more hungry children.”

Further information from www.marysmeals.org.uk

VOCATIONS
The Lord has given me a disciple’s tongue.” Jesus gave everything out of love for us. Are you being called to reflect the master’s sacrifice by offering yourself as a priest, a deacon or religious?VOCATIONS

Speak to your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

BROADCAST OF MASSES ON BBC SCOTLAND

Please see below details of forthcoming Masses which will be broadcast on BBC Scotland at 12 noon on

Sunday 4 April (Easter Sunday)                             St. Mirin’s Cathedral, Paisley

The broadcasts can be viewed on the channels listed here and subsequently on iPlayer.

Freeview and YouView, Channel 9;  SKY Channel 115, Freesat Channel 106 and Virgin Media Channel 108.

‘Knowing Jesus’ –  an online retreat for Lent 2021

Ignatian Spirituality Centre, Glasgow

“Get to know and love Jesus Christ better in order to live a deeper and more authentic Christian life of service.
Jesus was quite a character with a message and way of acting that was as counter-cultural in his day as it would be in ours. Going back to the roots of Christianity to the man who is its foundation gives a deeper understanding of what the faith is really about and a challenge for living.

The retreat for 2021 continues until the First Sunday of Easter, 11th April.

Further information from www.iscglasgow.co.uk, then  click on Lent Retreat.

JOURNEYING WITH JESUS

The Diocesan Mission & Evangelisation Team offer a quiet space,

for Prayer & Contemplation.  Zoom sessions will continue TODAY, Palm Sunday from 7.00-7.30 p.m.

If you would like to take part, please sign up by emailing, missions@rcdom.org.uk.

WITH ARMS WIDE OPEN  

Drama Kirk’s 2021 Passion Play tells the Easter story from the perspective of Gospel writer Luke, putting Jesus’ story together years after his death and hearing from the disciples what their encounters had meant for them.  It also includes a series of flashbacks to that final, fatal week.  Luke’s Passion Story

Easter Saturday (3^rd April) at 2pm   https://www.youtube.com/hamiltonold,

SCIAF:  MAKE BIG CHANGES HAPPEN WITH YOUR WEE BOX TOGETHER, WE CAN END POVERTY.

WEE BOX, BIG THANKS.

Thank you to everyone in the parish for supporting SCIAF’s Lenten appeal. Please return your WEE BOXES as soon as you can. Thank you once again for your great generosity. Wishing you all a joyful Easter.  You can learn more about SCIAF’s work by visiting www.sciaf.org.uk.

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                      

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS  

5th Sunday of Lent, B

21st March 2021

MASSES

Due to the present lockdown, on Sundays only the 10.30 a.m. Mass will be streamed from All Saints Church until further notice.

The 9.30 a.m. Mass each weekday will also be streamed.

THEME 

First reading: Jeremiah 31: 31–34

In today’s first reading, Jeremiah prophesies that the days are coming when the Lord will make a new covenant with his people.

Second reading: Hebrews 5: 7–9

Troubled in His agony, Jesus doesn’t pray to be saved. Instead, He offers himself to the Father on the Cross—as a living prayer and supplication. For this, God gives Him dominion over heaven and earth.

Gospel: John 12: 20–33

In predicting He will be “lifted up,” Jesus isn’t describing only His coming Crucifixion.  Isaiah used the same word to tell how the Messiah, after suffering for Israel’s sins, would be raised high and greatly exalted.

FEAST DAYS

Thursday 25^th March                           Solemnity of The Annunciation

LENTEN SCHEDULE

Week beginning 21st March 2021 (This week)

Mondays:                                           9.30 a.m. Mass with Novena Prayers.

Tuesdays:                                           9.30 a.m. Mass followed by the Rosary.

Wednesdays:                                      9.30 a.m. Mass followed by Stations of the Cross.

Thursdays:                                         9.30 a.m. Mass followed by the Rosary.

Fridays                                               9.30 a.m. Mass followed by Stations of the Cross.

Church reopens for Holy Week:

Government restrictions have been eased to allow the churches and other places of worship to reopen, albeit in a restricted fashion; with only 50 worshipers and Covid protocols still in place. It comes for us during the most sacred and important time in Church’s year: Holy Week. I’m sure everyone would wish to get to at least one of the Holy Week Services, the Sacred Triduum and Easter Sunday. The Bishop points out that for those unable to get to the Holy Week services or to Easter Sunday that the Easter Octave, lasts from Easter Sunday to Low Sunday (Divine Mercy Sunday) and is an extension of the sacred celebration of Easter Sunday, and you might want to get mass during that time.

I would once again like to thank our Covid Coordinator in the parish, and all our volunteers for the generous service they give to the parish community.

HOLY WEEK SERVICES

Saturday Vigil Mass of Palm Sunday

All Saints’ Church 4 30 p.m.                                                                                        

St. Stephen’s 5 30 p.m.

(Remember to put your clocks forward 1 hour.)

Palm Sunday

All Saints’ Church 10 30 a.m.                                                                                      

St Stephen’s 12 15 p.m.

All Saints’ 5 30 p.m.

Monday – Wednesday of Holy Week

 All Saints’ 9 30 a.m.                                                                                                      

St Stephen’s 6 30 p.m.

Holy Thursday

All Saints’ Mass of the Lord’s Supper 7.00p.m.                                                           

St Stephen’s Mass of the Lord’s Supper 7.00 p.m.

Good Friday

All Saints’ Solemn Liturgy of the Passion 3.00 p.m.                                                    

St Stephen’s Solemn Liturgy of the Passion 3.00 pm

All Saint’s Stations of the Cross 7 p.m.

A collection for the Holy Places will be taken up in All Saints’ Church and

 St. Stephen’s Church during the Good Friday Services.

Easter Vigil (Saturday Evening)

All Saints’ 8.00  p.m.                                                                                                   

St Stephen’s Easter Vigil (Saturday Evening) 8.00 p.m.

Easter Sunday

All Saints’ 10. 30 a.m., 12 Noon & 5 30 p.m.                                                                

St Stephen’s 10 30a.m & 12 Noon

BOOKINGS FOR PALM SUNDAY MASSES:

can be made from Monday 22^nd March and

BOOKINGS FOR EASTER TRIDUUM SERVICES

can be made from Monday 29^th March.

Online bookings can be made on our website home page by completing the form.  Anyone who does not have access to online should phone 07707 014999.

CONFESSIONS will be heard in the Sacristy,

after morning Mass in All Saints Church during Holy Week and

after evening Mass in St. Stephen’s Church during Holy Week.

SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION            

Please remember in your prayers the children who receive this sacrament on Tuesday.

SCIAF:  MAKE BIG CHANGES HAPPEN WITH YOUR WEE BOX TOGETHER, WE CAN END POVERTY.

REFLECT, GIVE, ACT WITH SCIAF.

Your donations, prayers and actions make a real and lasting difference to families in South Sudan. You can learn more about SCIAF’s work by visiting www.sciaf.org.uk.

WEE BOXES are available from the door at the Repository of the Church in a plastic container.  Please help yourselves.

Your donation will make twice the difference.  From 12 February till 11 May, all public donations to SCIAF’s Wee Box Big Change appeal will be doubled by the UK government.

VOCATIONS

Some people approach Philip to ask if they can meet Jesus. Perhaps you could be the one who introduces others to him today, especially in his word and through the sacraments. Speak to your Diocesan Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk,

see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

BROADCAST OF MASSES ON BBC SCOTLAND

Please see below details of forthcoming Masses which will be broadcast on BBC Scotland at 12 noon on the following Sundays:

Sunday 21 March                                                      Our Holy Redeemer, Stornoway (TODAY)

Sunday 4 April (Easter Sunday)                             St. Mirin’s Cathedral, Paisley

The broadcasts can be viewed on the channels listed here and subsequently on iPlayer.

Freeview and YouView, Channel 9;  SKY Channel 115, Freesat Channel 106 and Virgin Media Channel 108.

‘Knowing Jesus’ –  an online retreat for Lent 2021

Ignatian Spirituality Centre, Glasgow

“Get to know and love Jesus Christ better in order to live a deeper and more authentic Christian life of service.
Jesus was quite a character with a message and way of acting that was as counter-cultural in his day as it would be in ours. Going back to the roots of Christianity to the man who is its foundation gives a deeper understanding of what the faith is really about and a challenge for living.

The retreat for 2021 is from Ash Wednesday, 17th February to the First Sunday of Easter, 11th April.

Further information from www.iscglasgow.co.uk, then  click on Lent Retreat.

JOURNEYING WITH JESUS

The Diocesan Mission & Evangelisation Team offer a quiet space,

for Prayer & Contemplation.  Zoom sessions will continue today and Palm Sunday from 7.00-7.30 p.m.

If you would like to take part, please sign up by emailing, missions@rcdom.org.uk.

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                      

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS  

4th Sunday of Lent, B

14th March 2021

MASSES

Due to the present lockdown, on Sundays only the 10.30 a.m. Mass will be streamed from All Saints Church until further notice.

The 9.30 a.m. Mass each weekday will also be streamed.

THEME 

First reading: 1 Chronicles 36: 14-16. 18-23

Israel’s sinfulness brings destruction on Jerusalem and years of exile, the Lord’s intervention through Persian King Cyrus, brings an end to exile and offers the possibility of homecoming.

Second reading: Ephesians 4: 2-10

We are God’s “work of art”; though marred by sin, we are restored as a new creation through God’s loving goodness, shown in Christ.

Gospel: John 3: 14-21

Jesus, hanging lifeless on a cross, is the supreme sign that he came into our world out of love and in order to save us.

LENTEN SERVICES

Week beginning 14^th March 2021 (This week)

Mondays:                                           9.30 a.m. Mass with Novena Prayers.

Tuesdays:                                           9.30 a.m. Mass followed by the Rosary.

Wednesdays:                                      9.30 a.m. Mass followed by Stations of the Cross.

Thursdays:                                         9.30 a.m. Mass followed by the Rosary.

Fridays                                                 9.30 a.m. Mass followed by Stations of the Cross.

Church reopens for Holy Week:

Government restrictions have been eased to allow the churches and other places of worship to reopen, albeit in a restricted fashion; with only 50 worshipers and Covid protocols still in place. It comes for us during the most sacred and important time in Church’s year: Holy Week. I’m sure everyone would wish to get to at least one of the Holy Week Services, the Sacred Triduum and Easter Sunday. The Bishop points out that for those unable to get to the Holy Week services or to Easter Sunday that the Easter Octave, lasts from Easter Sunday to Low Sunday (Divine Mercy Sunday) and is an extension of the sacred celebration of Easter Sunday, and you might want to get mass during that time.

I would once again like to thank our Covid Coordinator in the parish, and all our volunteers for the generous service they give to the parish community.

HOLY WEEK SERVICES

Saturday Vigil Mass of Palm Sunday

All Saints’ Church 4 30 p.m.                                                                                        

St. Stephen’s 5 30 p.m.

Palm Sunday

All Saints’ Church 10 30 a.m.                                                                                      

St Stephen’s 12 15 p.m.

All Saints’ 5 30 p.m.

(Remember to put your clocks forward.)

Monday – Wednesday of Holy Week

All Saints’ 9 30 a.m.                                                                                                      

St Stephen’s 6 30 p.m.

Holy Thursday

All Saints’ Mass of the Lord’s Supper 7.00p.m.                                                           

St Stephen’s Mass of the Lord’s Supper 7.00 p.m.

Good Friday

All Saints’ Solemn Liturgy of the Passion 3.00 p.m.                                                    

St Stephen’s Solemn Liturgy of the Passion 3.00 pm

All Saint’s Stations of the Cross 7 p.m.

A collection for the Holy Places will be taken up in All Saints’ Church and St. Stephen’s Church during the

Good Friday Services.

Easter Vigil (Saturday Evening)

All Saints’ 8.00  p.m.                                                                                                   

St Stephen’s Easter Vigil (Saturday Evening) 8.00 p.m.

Easter Sunday

All Saints’ 10. 30 a.m., 12 Noon & 5 30 p.m.                                                                

St Stephen’s 10 30a.m & 12 Noon

BOOKINGS FOR PALM SUNDAY MASSES:

can be made from Monday 22^nd March and

BOOKINGS FOR EASTER TRIDUUM SERVICES

can be made from Monday 29^th March.

Online bookings can be made on our website home page by completing the form.  Anyone who does not have access to online should phone 07707 014999.

CONFESSIONS will be heard in the Sacristy,

after morning Mass in All Saints Church during Holy Week and

after evening Mass in St. Stephen’s Church during Holy Week.

SCIAF SUNDAY:  MAKE BIG CHANGES HAPPEN WITH YOUR WEE BOX TOGETHER, WE CAN END POVERTY.

On this SCIAF Sunday please pray for women and girls around the world. Today, we especially think of Vaida and her mother Angelina who feature on this year’s SCIAF WEE BOX. Without your help these children and their families will struggle to survive at all.  The SCIAF Collection which should have taken place today will be collected on PALM SUNDAY when the churches reopen.  Alternatively, you may put your donation in an envelope clearly marked SCIAF COLLECTION and put through the letterbox of the  Chapel House.

WEE BOXES are available from the door at the Repository of the Church in a plastic container.  Please help yourselves.

Your donation will make twice the difference.  From 12 February till 11 May, all public donations to SCIAF’s Wee Box Big Change appeal will be doubled by the UK government.

VOCATIONS

“We are God’s work of art.” God has crafted each of us for some unique purpose. Could yours be found in priesthood, diaconate or religious vows?  Speak to your Diocesan Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk,

see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

BROADCAST OF MASSES ON BBC SCOTLAND

Please see below details of forthcoming Masses which will be broadcast on BBC Scotland at 12 noon on the following Sundays:

Sunday 14 March                                                      Our Holy Redeemer, Stornoway (TODAY)

Sunday 4 April (Easter Sunday)                             St. Mirin’s Cathedral, Paisley

The broadcasts can be viewed on the channels listed here and subsequently on iPlayer.

Freeview and YouView, Channel 9;  SKY Channel 115, Freesat Channel 106 and Virgin Media Channel 108.

‘Knowing Jesus’ –  an online retreat for Lent 2021

Ignatian Spirituality Centre, Glasgow

“Get to know and love Jesus Christ better in order to live a deeper and more authentic Christian life of service.
Jesus was quite a character with a message and way of acting that was as counter-cultural in his day as it would be in ours. Going back to the roots of Christianity to the man who is its foundation gives a deeper understanding of what the faith is really about and a challenge for living.

The retreat for 2021 is from Ash Wednesday, 17th February to the First Sunday of Easter, 11th April.

Further information from www.iscglasgow.co.uk, then  click on Lent Retreat.

The Coatbridge Irish Heritage Committee will be live streaming its annual

St. Patricks Day Festival on Saturday 20th March 2021.  This will include music performances on the part of some of our regular festival acts over the years as well as first-timers. The live stream includes a step into the history of the festival since 2003, as well as including poetry and messages of support from within Scotland and across the globe. This year’s digital festival will showcase several lectures on some outstanding topics, including Celtic FCs Brother Walfrid as well as one on some anniversaries  involved in Irish-British relations: the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921 and the Irish Hunger strike of 1981. More information on the digital events and how to access these will be posted on the St. Patricks Day Festival Coatbridge Facebook page soon.

🌹            HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY to all mothers.         🌹

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                      

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS  

3rd Sunday of Lent, B

7th March 2021

MASSES

Due to the present lockdown, on Sundays only the 10.30 a.m. Mass will be streamed from All Saints Church until further notice.

The 9.30 a.m. Mass each weekday will also be streamed.

THEME

First reading: Exodus 20:1–17

God does not let sin continue for ever.  The commandments are also statements of fact.

Second reading: 1 Corinthians 1:22–25

Until we se God, God’s wisdom will always look like foolishness to us.

Gospel:  John 2:13–25

The cleansing of the Temple by Christ warns us that he will continually cleanse the new temple  of the Holy Spirit, which is his Church.

  LENTEN SCHEDULE

Mondays:                                           9.30 a.m. Mass with Novena Prayers.

Tuesdays:                                           9.30 a.m. Mass followed by the Rosary.

Wednesdays:                                      9.30 a.m. Mass followed by Stations of the Cross.

Thursdays:                                         9.30 a.m. Mass followed by the Rosary.

Fridays                                               9.30 a.m. Mass followed by Stations of the Cross.

SCIAF:  MAKE BIG CHANGES HAPPEN WITH YOUR WEE BOX

TOGETHER, WE CAN END POVERTY.

This year the SCIAF WEE BOX, BIG CHANGE Appeal has received UK Aid Match. This means that all public donations to the appeal up until 11 May will be doubled by the UK government. Please give generously to the SCIAF collection next Sunday.

WEE BOXES are available from the door at the Repository of the Church in a plastic container.  Please help yourselves.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS for use at home have been added to the Latest News Section of our Website and are also available on our Twitter page.

SPRED:  Lorraine Cunningham will lead weekly Novena Prayers, beginning on Tuesday 16^th February and running for 9 consecutive weeks, to pray for the restoration of SPRED.

The prayers will be streamed live to the SPRED Motherwell Facebook page and will last 20-30 minutes.

You are invited to join with her in praying for this intention.

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS

A full list of parishes in our Diocese offering live streaming can be found at

https://www.rcdom.org.uk/live-mass

VOCATIONS

“We are preaching a crucified Christ.” Why not consider the call to preach the Gospel of the crucified and risen Christ as a Diocesan priest or permanent deacon? Speak to your Diocesan Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk,

see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

St Andrew’s Hospice – Make a Will Month – March 2021

Make or update your Will and support St Andrew’s Hospice during the month of March. Several Lanarkshire Legal Firms have agreed to write a basic Will or update an existing Will and waive their legal fee, in return for a donation to St Andrew’s Hospice. For further information please contact Lorna McCafferty, Trusts, Legacy and Individual Giving Manager at St Andrew’s Hospice on 01236 772087 or email lorna.mccafferty@standrews.scot.nhs.uk or visit the Hospice website :-www.st-andrews-hospice.com for details of the Solicitors taking part.

JOURNEYING WITH JESUS

Join people from throughout the diocese for 30 minutes of prayer and reflection on four Sundays of Lent, from 7.00-7.30 p.m.  Please register your interest through the email:

missions@rcdom.org.uk.  . You will then be sent a link for the meetings.

Mary’s Meals

“Thanks to your support so far, we’ve been able to reach 3,000 children and vulnerable adults in Tigray, Ethiopia, with life-saving food parcels. But we urgently need your help to reach many more people in the coming weeks.

Due to fighting in the region, families are still at risk of imminent starvation. With your support, our partner, the Daughters of Charity, are delivering relief and emergency aid to internally displaced people. They told us: “People are so traumatised. It is a time that we need your support and prayers. When we were distributing food, for the first time I was able to see a little bit of joy on their faces. I was able to see some hope. And people were so grateful.”

Go to www.marysmeals.org.uk for further information on how to donate.

BROADCAST OF MASSES ON BBC SCOTLAND

Please see below details of forthcoming Masses which will be broadcast on BBC Scotland at 12 noon on the following Sundays:

Sunday 14 March                                                      Our Holy Redeemer, Stornoway

Sunday 4 April (Easter Sunday)                             St. Mirin’s Cathedral, Paisley

The broadcasts can be viewed on the channels listed here and subsequently on iPlayer.

Freeview and YouView, Channel 9;  SKY Channel 115, Freesat Channel 106 and Virgin Media Channel 108.

AID TO THE CHURCH IN NEED

VIRTUAL LENTEN LUNCH

Wondering how you can make a difference this Lent? You are invited to join ACN benefactors and parishes all across the UK for a virtual Sunday Lunch, on

21 March 2021, 1.00 pm,

in aid of the St John the Merciful Table, a fantastic initiative that serves daily meals to over 1,500 struggling Christians in Lebanon. All you need to attend this event is an internet connection and a device on which you can access YouTube. Be prepared to enjoy a full line-up of prayer, videos, music and more! For more info, visit https://acnuk.org/event/acn-virtual-sunday-lunch/

See you there!

SOCIAL CARE INSTITUTE FOR EXCELLENCE

The Social Care Institute for Excellence / Children in Scotland (SCIE/CiS) are conducting an external, independent review of two diocese of the Catholic Church in Scotland.

The independent team want to hear from people with first- hand experience of how people in diocesan roles have responded or failed to respond to disclosures of abuse or sharing of concerns. They want to understand what is working well and what has gone wrong in the past. They are looking at the responses of people in diocesan roles to knowledge of abuse by clergy or risks posed by clergy and others in Church-related roles, paid or voluntary. At this stage, they are only focusing on responses by people in the Diocese of Aberdeen and the Diocese of Motherwell.

Further information available from our website or Twitter page.

‘Knowing Jesus’ –  an online retreat for Lent 2021

Ignatian Spirituality Centre, Glasgow

“Get to know and love Jesus Christ better in order to live a deeper and more authentic Christian life of service.
Jesus was quite a character with a message and way of acting that was as counter-cultural in his day as it would be in ours. Going back to the roots of Christianity to the man who is its foundation gives a deeper understanding of what the faith is really about and a challenge for living.

Weekly topics include:
Jesus, his prayer and the Father; Jesus’ Family and Friends
Jesus’ Teachings;  Jesus reaches out to the needy
The emotional Jesus;  Jesus under Attack
The Resurrected Jesus.

The retreat for 2021 is from Ash Wednesday, 17th February to the First Sunday of Easter, 11th April.

Further information from www.iscglasgow.co.uk, then  click on Lent Retreat.

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                      

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS  

2nd Sunday of Lent, B

28th February 2021

MASSES

Due to the present lockdown, on Sundays only the 10.30 a.m. Mass will be streamed from All Saints Church until further notice.

The 9.30 a.m. Mass each weekday will also be streamed.

THEME

First reading: Genesis 22:1–2, 9–13, 15–18

In this week’s First Reading, we hear of how Abraham was put to the test.  The Church has always read this story as a sign of God’s love for the world in giving His only begotten son.

Second reading: Romans 8:31–34

In today’s Epistle, Paul uses exact words drawn from this story to describe how God, like Abraham, did not withhold His only Son, but handed Him over for us on the Cross

Gospel:  Mark 9:2–10

In the Gospel today, too, we hear another echo. Jesus is called God’s “beloved Son”—as Isaac is described as Abraham’s beloved son.

 LENTEN SCHEDULE

Mondays:                                           9.30 a.m. Mass with Novena Prayers.

Tuesdays:                                           9.30 a.m. Mass followed by the Rosary.

Wednesdays:                                      9.30 a.m. Mass followed by Stations of the Cross.

Thursdays:                                         9.30 a.m. Mass followed by the Rosary.

Fridays                                               9.30 a.m. Mass followed by Stations of the Cross.

SCIAF:  MAKE BIG CHANGES HAPPEN WITH YOUR WEE BOX

TOGETHER, WE CAN END POVERTY.

“By reflecting, giving and acting with SCIAF during Lent, your parish is helping to change the lives of some of the poorest children in the world.

By supporting SCIAF this Lent you can ensure this vital work continues.

WEE BOXES are available from the door at the Repository of the Church in a plastic container.  Please help yourselves.

Your donation will make twice the difference.  From 12 February till 11 May, all public donations to SCIAF’s Wee Box Big Change appeal will be doubled by the UK government.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS for use at home have been added to the Latest News Section of our Website and are also available on our Twitter page.

SPRED:  Lorraine Cunningham will lead weekly Novena Prayers, beginning on Tuesday 16^th February and running for 9 consecutive weeks, to pray for the restoration of SPRED.

The prayers will be streamed live to the SPRED Motherwell Facebook page and will last 20-30 minutes.

You are invited to join with her in praying for this intention.

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS

A full list of parishes in our Diocese offering live streaming can be found at

https://www.rcdom.org.uk/live-mass

VOCATIONS

“This is my Son, the Beloved. Listen to him.” Are you listening to him? Is he calling you to serve his people in priesthood or consecrated life? Speak to your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

St Andrew’s Hospice – Make a Will Month – March 2021

Make or update your Will and support St Andrew’s Hospice during the month of March. Several Lanarkshire Legal Firms have agreed to write a basic Will or update an existing Will and waive their legal fee, in return for a donation to St Andrew’s Hospice. For further information please contact Lorna McCafferty, Trusts, Legacy and Individual Giving Manager at St Andrew’s Hospice on 01236 772087 or email lorna.mccafferty@standrews.scot.nhs.uk or visit the Hospice website :-www.st-andrews-hospice.com for details of the Solicitors taking part.

JOURNEYING WITH JESUS

Join people from throughout the diocese for 30 minutes of prayer and reflection on four Sundays of Lent, from 7.00-7.30 p.m.  Please register your interest through the email:

missions@rcdom.org.uk.  . You will then be sent a link for the meetings.

Mary’s Meals

“Thanks to your support so far, we’ve been able to reach 3,000 children and vulnerable adults in Tigray, Ethiopia, with life-saving food parcels. But we urgently need your help to reach many more people in the coming weeks.

Due to fighting in the region, families are still at risk of imminent starvation. With your support, our partner, the Daughters of Charity, are delivering relief and emergency aid to internally displaced people. They told us: “People are so traumatised. It is a time that we need your support and prayers. When we were distributing food, for the first time I was able to see a little bit of joy on their faces. I was able to see some hope. And people were so grateful.”

Go to www.marysmeals.org.uk for further information on how to donate.

BROADCAST OF MASSES ON BBC SCOTLAND

Please see below details of forthcoming Masses which will be broadcast on BBC Scotland at 12 noon on the following Sundays:

Sunday 14 March                                                      Our Holy Redeemer, Stornoway

Sunday 4 April (Easter Sunday)                             St. Mirin’s Cathedral, Paisley

The broadcasts can be viewed on the channels listed here and subsequently on iPlayer.

Freeview and YouView, Channel 9;  SKY Channel 115, Freesat Channel 106 and Virgin Media Channel 108.

‘Knowing Jesus’ –  an online retreat for Lent 2021

Ignatian Spirituality Centre, Glasgow

“Get to know and love Jesus Christ better in order to live a deeper and more authentic Christian life of service.
Jesus was quite a character with a message and way of acting that was as counter-cultural in his day as it would be in ours. Going back to the roots of Christianity to the man who is its foundation gives a deeper understanding of what the faith is really about and a challenge for living.

Weekly topics include:
Jesus, his prayer and the Father; Jesus’ Family and Friends
Jesus’ Teachings;  Jesus reaches out to the needy
The emotional Jesus;  Jesus under Attack
The Resurrected Jesus.

The retreat for 2021 is from Ash Wednesday, 17th February to the First Sunday of Easter, 11th April.

Further information from www.iscglasgow.co.uk, then  click on Lent Retreat

AID TO THE CHURCH IN NEED

VIRTUAL LENTEN LUNCH
 

Wondering how you can make a difference this Lent? You are invited to join ACN benefactors and parishes all across the UK for a virtual Sunday Lunch, on

21 March 2021, 1.00 pm,

in aid of the St John the Merciful Table, a fantastic initiative that serves daily meals to over 1,500 struggling Christians in Lebanon. All you need to attend this event is an internet connection and a device on which you can access YouTube. Be prepared to enjoy a full line-up of prayer, videos, music and more! For more info, visit https://acnuk.org/event/acn-virtual-sunday-lunch/ See you there!

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                      

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS  

1st Sunday of Lent, B

22nd February 2021

MASSES

Due to the present lockdown, on Sundays only the 10.30 a.m. Mass will be streamed from All Saints Church until further notice.

The 9.30 a.m. Mass each weekday will also be streamed.

THEME

First reading:  Genesis 9:8-15

‘There shall be no flood to destroy the earth again.’

Second Reading:  1 Peter 3:18-22

The water on which the Ark floated is a type of the baptism which saves you now.

Gospel:  Mark 1:12-15

Jesus was tempted by Satan, and the angels looked after him.

Lent is a 40-day season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends at sundown on Holy Thursday. It’s a period of preparation to celebrate the Lord’s Resurrection at Easter. During Lent, we seek the Lord in prayer by reading Sacred Scripture; we serve by giving alms; and we practice self-control through fasting. We are called not only to abstain from luxuries during Lent, but to a true inner conversion of heart as we seek to follow Christ’s will more faithfully. We recall the waters of baptism in which we were also baptized into Christ’s death, died to sin and evil, and began new life in Christ.

Many know of the tradition of abstaining from meat on Fridays during Lent, but we are also called to practice self-discipline and fast in other ways throughout the season. Contemplate the meaning and origins of the Lenten fasting tradition in this reflection. In addition, the giving of alms is one way to share God’s gifts—not only through the distribution of money, but through the sharing of our time and talents. As St. John Chrysostom reminds us: “Not to enable the poor to share in our goods is to steal from them and deprive them of life. The goods we possess are not ours, but theirs.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 2446).

In Lent, the baptized are called to renew their baptismal commitment as others prepare to be baptized through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, a period of learning and discernment for individuals who have declared their desire to become Catholics.

 LENTEN SCHEDULE

Mondays:                                           9.30 a.m. Mass with Novena Prayers.

Tuesdays:                                           9.30 a.m. Mass followed by the Rosary.

Wednesdays:                                      9.30 a.m. Mass followed by Stations of the Cross.

Thursdays:                                         9.30 a.m. Mass followed by the Rosary.

Fridays                                               9.30 a.m. Mass followed by Stations of the Cross.

SCIAF:  MAKE BIG CHANGES HAPPEN WITH YOUR WEE BOX

Thousands of children with disabilities in South Sudan need your help right now. Children with disabilities were already the most vulnerable in society. Now, the coronavirus pandemic has deepened already existing levels of poverty, putting them at greater risk. For more information about SCIAF’s Lent campaign please go to www.sciaf.org.uk or call 0141 354 5555.

WEE BOXES are available from the door at the Repository of the Church in a plastic container.  Please help yourselves.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS for use at home have been added to the Latest News Section of our Website and are also available on our Twitter page.

SPRED:  Lorraine Cunningham will lead weekly Novena Prayers, beginning on Tuesday 16^th February and running for 9 consecutive weeks, to pray for the restoration of SPRED.

The prayers will be streamed live to the SPRED Motherwell Facebook page and will last 20-30 minutes.

You are invited to join with her in praying for this intention.

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS

A full list of parishes in our Diocese offering live streaming can be found at

https://www.rcdom.org.uk/live-mass

VOCATIONS

“The time has come: the kingdom of God is close.” Is it time to start taking that niggling sense of a call seriously? Pray for light and courage in discernment this Lent. Call  your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

St Andrew’s Hospice – Make a Will Month – March 2021

Make or update your Will and support St Andrew’s Hospice during the month of March. Several Lanarkshire Legal Firms have agreed to write a basic Will or update an existing Will and waive their legal fee, in return for a donation to St Andrew’s Hospice. For further information please contact Lorna McCafferty, Trusts, Legacy and Individual Giving Manager at St Andrew’s Hospice on 01236 772087 or email lorna.mccafferty@standrews.scot.nhs.uk or visit the Hospice website :-www.st-andrews-hospice.com for details of the Solicitors taking part.

JOURNEYING WITH JESUS

Join people from throughout the diocese for 30 minutes of prayer and reflection on four Sundays of Lent, from 7.00-7.30 p.m.  Please register your interest through the email:

missions@rcdom.org.uk.  . You will then be sent a link for the meetings.

Mary’s Meals

“Thanks to your support so far, we’ve been able to reach 3,000 children and vulnerable adults in Tigray, Ethiopia, with life-saving food parcels. But we urgently need your help to reach many more people in the coming weeks.

Due to fighting in the region, families are still at risk of imminent starvation. With your support, our partner, the Daughters of Charity, are delivering relief and emergency aid to internally displaced people. They told us: “People are so traumatised. It is a time that we need your support and prayers. When we were distributing food, for the first time I was able to see a little bit of joy on their faces. I was able to see some hope. And people were so grateful.”

Go to www.marysmeals.org.uk for further information on how to donate.

BROADCAST OF MASSES ON BBC SCOTLAND

Please see below details of forthcoming Masses which will be broadcast on BBC Scotland at 12 noon on the following Sundays:

Sunday 21 February                   – St. Joseph’s, Clarkston

Sunday 14 March                       – Our Holy Redeemer, Stornoway

Sunday 4 April (Easter Sunday) – St. Mirin’s Cathedral, Paisley

The broadcasts can be viewed on the channels listed here and subsequently on iPlayer.

Freeview and YouView, Channel 9;  SKY Channel 115, Freesat Channel 106 and Virgin Media Channel 108.

‘Knowing Jesus’ –  an online retreat for Lent 2021

Ignatian Spirituality Centre, Glasgow

“Get to know and love Jesus Christ better in order to live a deeper and more authentic Christian life of service.
Jesus was quite a character with a message and way of acting that was as counter-cultural in his day as it would be in ours. Going back to the roots of Christianity to the man who is its foundation gives a deeper understanding of what the faith is really about and a challenge for living.

Weekly topics include:
Jesus, his prayer and the Father; Jesus’ Family and Friends
Jesus’ Teachings;  Jesus reaches out to the needy
The emotional Jesus;  Jesus under Attack
The Resurrected Jesus.

The retreat for 2021 is from Ash Wednesday, 17th February to the First Sunday of Easter, 11th April.

Further information from www.iscglasgow.co.uk, then  click on Lent Retreat.

Online Lecture:  ‘Leadership as Witness’ by Cardinal Joseph W Tobin CSsR.  Tue 23 February 7.00-8.00pm

The University of Glasgow St Andrew’s Foundation invites you to this online lecture.  Cardinal Tobin is the Archbishop of Newark, New Jersey. He was Superior General of the Redemptorists from 1997 until 2009. In 2010 he was appointed as Secretary of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. He has participated in five Synods of Bishops. This lecture is part of the Catholic School Leadership Expert Seminar Series. We encourage Catholic school leaders, aspiring leaders, researchers and those that support our Catholic school leaders to join us for this final seminar in the series.

To register, please email: education-st-andrews-foundation@glasgow.ac.uk

RIGHT TO LIFE

The UK Government’s consultation on whether to make permanent the current temporary arrangement allowing ‘DIY’ home abortions closes soon.
It is vital that as many people as possible make a submission to the consultation to ensure that it is clear to the UK Government that the public wants an end to these dangerous ‘DIY’ home abortions.

An easy-to-use tool has been launched on their website that makes it simple to complete your submission.

Further details from www.righttolife.org.uk.

PARISH OF THE MOST  BLESSED TRINITY                      

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND

ALL SAINTS  

6th Sunday of the Year, B

15^th February 2021

MASSES

Due to the present lockdown only the 10.30 a.m. Mass from All Saints Church will be streamed until further notice.

THEME

First reading: Leviticus 13: 1-2. 44-46

The book of Leviticus shows us the practical implications of the Law of Moses.  At a time when people had no defence against virulent diseases, rules are laid down which exclude those with skin diseases from wider society, for the protection of the whole people.

 Second Reading:  1 Corinthians 10: 31-11:1

Paul is talking to early Christians about how to behave when dining with pagans.  Paul balances the freedom of the Spirit, which no longer requires strict adherence to the Law of Moses, and the need to avoid shocking the conscience of others.

Gospel:  Mark 1: 40-45

Jesus heals a man with a virulent skin disease and puts himself at risk of being rendered ritually unclean in the process.  There is nothing any of us could ever do that Jesus would not be willing to heal, at whatever cost to himself.

FEAST DAYS

Wednesday 17^th:                       Ash Wednesday.      

Ash Wednesday is a day of Solemn Penance a day of fast and abstinence. It is the symbolic turning to God at the beginning of Lent and the start of our warfare with sin and the restoration of life in grace. A plenary indulgence is available for all those who devoutly make the Stations of the Cross. 

Blessed Palm Branches (to burn for ashes) & SCIAF Lenten Materials will be available at the side door of the sacristy/ repository in a plastic box. Please take what you need.  Alternatively, if you have palms from previous years you can use them.  You will only need a small part of the palm branch to burn for ashes. I have blessed them for use on Ash Wednesday. 

A Liturgy of the Word with Distribution of Ashes for Celebration at Home is available on the Latest News Section of our website.

Lent is a 40 day season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends at sundown on Holy Thursday. It’s a period of preparation to celebrate the Lord’s Resurrection at Easter. During Lent, we seek the Lord in prayer by reading Sacred Scripture; we serve by giving alms; and we practice self-control through fasting. We are called not only to abstain from luxuries during Lent, but to a true inner conversion of heart as we seek to follow Christ’s will more faithfully. We recall the waters of baptism in which we were also baptized into Christ’s death, died to sin and evil, and began new life in Christ.

Many know of the tradition of abstaining from meat on Fridays during Lent, but we are also called to practice self-discipline and fast in other ways throughout the season. Contemplate the meaning and origins of the Lenten fasting tradition in this reflection. In addition, the giving of alms is one way to share God’s gifts—not only through the distribution of money, but through the sharing of our time and talents. As St. John Chrysostom reminds us: “Not to enable the poor to share in our goods is to steal from them and deprive them of life. The goods we possess are not ours, but theirs.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 2446).

In Lent, the baptized are called to renew their baptismal commitment as others prepare to be baptized through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, a period of learning and discernment for individuals who have declared their desire to become Catholics.

 LENTEN SCHEDULE

Mondays:                                           9.30 a.m. Mass followed by Novena Prayers.

Tuesdays:                                           9.30 a.m. Mass followed by the Rosary

Wednesdays:                                      9.30 a.m. Mass followed by Stations of the Cross.

Thursdays:                                         9.30 a.m. Mass followed by the Rosary

Fridays                                               9.30 a.m. Mass followed by Stations of the Cross.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS for use at home have been added to the Latest News Section of our Website and are also available on our Twitter page.

SPRED:  Lorraine Cunningham will lead weekly Novena Prayers, beginning on Tuesday 16^th February and running for 9 consecutive weeks, to pray for the restoration of SPRED.

The prayers will be streamed live to the SPRED Motherwell Facebook page and will last 20-30 minutes.

You are invited to join with her in praying for this intention.

DAY OR PRAYER FOR THOSE WHO HAVE SUFFERED ABUSE is on Friday 19^th February 2021

On this National Day of Prayer for Those who have Suffered Abuse, you are invited to join your prayers with those of the Catholic Church throughout Scotland for people in our families and communities who carry within themselves the deep and traumatic wounds of abuse in any way inflicted by the Church. In preparation for this time of prayer, you are invited to place a crucifix and a lit candle on top of a white cloth on a table nearby.

Prayers for this intention are available on the Latest News Section of our website and on our Twitter account.

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS

A full list of parishes in our Diocese offering live streaming can be found at

https://www.rcdom.org.uk/live-mass

‘Knowing Jesus’ –  an online retreat for Lent 2021 –

Ignatian Spirituality Centre, Glasgow

“Get to know and love Jesus Christ better in order to live a deeper and more authentic Christian life of service.
Jesus was quite a character with a message and way of acting that was as counter-cultural in his day as it would be in ours. Going back to the roots of Christianity to the man who is its foundation gives a deeper understanding of what the faith is really about and a challenge for living.

Weekly topics include:
Jesus, his prayer and the Father; Jesus’ Family and Friends
Jesus’ Teachings;  Jesus reaches out to the needy
The emotional Jesus;  Jesus under Attack
The Resurrected Jesus.

The retreat for 2021 is from Ash Wednesday, 17th February to the First Sunday of Easter, 11th April.

Time for Prayer: Ideally you should be able to find a time to pray with the Scripture or other material daily; anything from 15 minutes to an hour a day, whatever you find helps you.

Weekly Meeting: The idea of this retreat is that groups of people support each other. Each person prays daily individually, and then various groups meet weekly together to see how the prayer has been going. This will support you in your prayer and help you see where God is in your prayer and in your life. It will also introduce you to different ways of praying with Scripture.

Prayer Materials: Choose what is most convenient for you: we provide the materials online for a computer or smartphone.
Every day there is one passage from Scripture plus ‘A Thought for Today’ a piece of music and a picture to ponder.
We also give a few suggestions on how to pray with the day’s materials.

Reflecting on Prayer; We suggest that after each day’s prayer you jot down in a journal a few notes on how the prayer has gone. This will help your sharing in the group if you have one. It will also be interesting to reflect on how things are moving during Lent and see whether you discern any patterns in the way God is dealing with you.

The BBC Radio 4 Daily Service will be taking up the themes of this week. So this will be an additional way to immerse yourself in this retreat.”

VOCATIONS

Jesus heals a leper because of his compassion and his desire to heal him. Could your compassion for people and desire to share Christ’s healing love with them lead you to give yourself to them as a priest, deacon or in a religious community? Speak to your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

MARY’S MEALS

The people of Tigray in Ethiopia urgently need your help. Due to brutal fighting in the region, frightened families have been forced to flee their homes and millions are living in fear of starvation.

The region’s capital, Mekelle, is being overwhelmed by displaced and traumatised people arriving every day. Many are unaccompanied children who have lost their parents.

Mary’s Meals has been working with a trusted partner in the region for many years and together we are reaching out to children and communities affected by this dire situation.

But they really need your help to continue this life-saving work. Please give if you can.

You can donate through their website: www.marysmeals.org.uk.

PARISH OF THE                                                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND ALL SAINTS  

5th  Sunday of the Year, B

7th February 2021

MASSES

Due to the present lockdown only the 10.30 a.m. Mass from All Saints Church will be streamed until further notice.

THEME

First reading: Job &: 1-4. 6.7

For Job, life is just one continuous round of drudgery.  There is no end in view to his pain and misery.

Second Reading:  1 Corinthians 9: 16-19. 22-23

Paul takes up his responsibility to preach the Gospel with joy and enthusiasm.  He feels free to offer himself to present the Good News for the benefit of all.

Gospel:  Mark 1: 29-39

Jesus’ healing attracts the crowds, but he needs to be free to bring the Good News beyond the confines of his own area.

FEAST DAYS

Monday 9^th                               St. Scholastica

Tuesday 10^th                             Our Lady of Lourdes

Friday 12th                               St. Cyril and St. Methodius

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS

A full list of parishes in our Diocese offering live streaming can be found at

https://www.rcdom.org.uk/live-mass

VOCATIONS

“Let us go elsewhere… so that I can preach there too; for that is why I came.” Jesus’ mission continues in the Church and in the world in the lives of priests and religious. Do you have a desire to share the Good News with others too? Call your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR THE SICK is on 11^th February 2021.  This year the theme is “You have but one teacher and you are all brothers” (Mt 23:8).

The celebration of the XXIX World Day of the Sick on 11 February 2021, the liturgical memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Lourdes, is an opportunity to devote special attention to the sick and to those who provide them with assistance and care both in healthcare institutions and within families and communities. We think in particular of those who have suffered, and continue to suffer, the effects of the worldwide coronavirus pandemic.

The Rosary is recited in English at 2.00 p.m. each day (our time) from  the Grotto of Our Lady in Lourdes.

Go to https://www.lourdes-france.org/en to take  part.

SPRED:  Lorraine Cunningham will lead weekly Novena Prayers, beginning on Tuesday 16^th February and running for 9 consecutive weeks, to pray for the restoration of SPRED.

The prayers will be streamed live to the SPRED Motherwell Facebook page and will last 20-30 minutes.

You are invited to join with her in praying for this intention.

‘Knowing Jesus’ –  an online retreat for Lent 2021 –

Ignatian Spirituality Centre, Glasgow

After three years of steadily growing online retreats during Lent, this year the Jesuit run Ignatian Spirituality Centre in Glasgow has teamed up with BBC Radio 4’s Daily Service to offer “Knowing Jesus” a retreat for Lent and the first week of Easter.  Each day there is a Scripture reading, usually from a Gospel, a picture, a reflection and a piece of music.  The whole retreat is aimed at helping people come to know Jesus better.

As well as daily online material on www.onlineprayer.net, people can join Zoom groups to share the fruits of their prayer and discuss issues that arise for them.  Each group will be run by a person with some experience of using Scripture in prayer.

World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly  

Pope Francis has established a World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly on the fourth Sunday of July, close to the liturgical memorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus.  Further information can be found at

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2021-01/pope-establishes-world-day-for-grandparents-and-the-elderly.html

MARY’S MEALS

The people of Tigray in Ethiopia urgently need your help. Due to brutal fighting in the region, frightened families have been forced to flee their homes and millions are living in fear of starvation.

The region’s capital, Mekelle, is being overwhelmed by displaced and traumatised people arriving every day. Many are unaccompanied children who have lost their parents.

Mary’s Meals has been working with a trusted partner in the region for many years and together we are reaching out to children and communities affected by this dire situation.

But they really need your help to continue this life-saving work. Please give if you can.

You can donate through their website: www.marysmeals.org.uk.

The International Day of Prayer and Awareness against human trafficking  February 8th is the International Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking. It is celebrated on the feast of St. Josephine Bakhita. Let us pray for the victims and for those who work to end human trafficking.

PARISH OF THE                                                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND ALL SAINTS  

4th  Sunday of the Year, B

31st January 2021

MASSES

Due to the present lockdown only the 10.30 a.m. Mass from All Saints Church will be streamed until further notice.

THEME

First reading:  Deuteronomy 18: 15-20

God’s words will be placed on the lips of a Moses-like prophet who is raised up from among his kinfolk.

Second Reading:  1 Corinthians 7: 32-35

Paul sees the unmarried person as single-mindedly committed to the Lord.

Gospel:  Mark 1: 21-28

Jesus speaks with an authority that leaves the people spellbound, and with a similar authority he drives out evil spirits.

FEAST DAYS

Tuesday 2^nd February              The Presentation of the Lord

Wednesday 3^rd February         St. Agatha

Thursday 4^th February             St. Paul Miki and Companions

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS

A full list of parishes in our Diocese offering live streaming can be found at  https://www.rcdom.org.uk/live-mass

VOCATIONS

“His teaching made a deep impression on them because he taught them with authority.” Could you share in Jesus’ teaching authority as a priest, deacon or in consecrated life? Why not speak to your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

WORLD DAY FOR CONSECRATED LIFE

World Day for Consecrated Life will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 2, 2021  Please pray for all those who have made commitments in the consecrated life and be sure to thank them on their special day. May they continue to be inspired by Jesus Christ and respond generously to God’s gift of their vocation.

RIGHT TO LIFE

The evidence that babies can feel pain in the womb, and during many abortions, highlights the humanity of the unborn child and provides another important reason to introduce legislation to protect the unborn child from abortion.

Carla Lockhart MP has launched a parliamentary motion (Early Day Motion 1340) which highlights the latest science and developments on foetal pain and calls on the Government to urgently review official guidance in this area.

Right to Life have set up an easy-to-use tool on their website that will enable you to email your MP asking them to sign this parliamentary motion.

To participate go to https://righttolife.org.uk

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR THE SICK is on 11^th February 2021.  This year the theme is

“You have but one teacher and you are all brothers” (Mt 23:8).

The Scottish Catholic Historical Association and the Scottish Catholic Heritage Collections Trust are delighted to co-host Mary Queen of Scots: An Afterlife Presented by Dr Steven J Reid University of Glasgow 10th February 2021, 5:00pm Via Zoom.

To reserve a place for this online event, please sign-up here: https://bit.ly/3ccZY4y

For further information or queries please e-mail: scha1950@gmail.com

PARISH OF THE                                                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND ALL SAINTS  

3rd Sunday of the Year, B

^24th  January 2021

MASSES

Due to the present lockdown only the 10.30 a.m. Mass from All Saints Church will be streamed until further notice.

THEME

First reading:  Isaiah 3: 1-5. 10

Jonah preaches to the people of Nineveh and they repent.

Second Reading:  1 Corinthians 7: 29-31

How to live in a world that is rapidly passing away.

Gospel:  Mark 1: 14-20

Jesus calls the disciples, and they follow him.

FEASTS DAYS

Monday 25^th                The Conversion of St. Paul

Thursday 28^th              St. Thomas Aquinas

Catholic Adoption Agency, St Margaret’s Children and Family Care Society, any money donated to the Crib will be passed to St. Margaret’s Children and Family Care Society.  St Margaret’s Virtual Crib can be viewed, and online donations made at stmargaretsadoption.org.uk

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS

A full list of parishes in our Diocese offering live streaming can be found at  https://www.rcdom.org.uk/live-mass

When you hear 

God’s voice today

harden not your heart!

Vocations are everybody’s business

VOCATIONS

Jonah is told “Up! Go to Nineveh and preach to them as I told you.” Jonah is reluctant at first but finally does as he is asked. What is holding you back from acting on God’s call to you? Now is the time! Speak to your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

Please pray for the three seminarians from our Diocese, who have returned to Rome for the second term and those who are due to go back to Oscott in early February. Christopher Igwe will join Christopher Morris and Colum Martin in Oscott.

Urgent – Act now to stop ‘DIY’ abortion services being made permanent in Scotland.

The Scottish Government is currently deciding on whether to make the temporary measure allowing ‘DIY’ home abortions in Scotland permanent. Since home abortions were temporarily allowed, a number of significant problems have put the lives and health of many women in danger.

It is vital that as many people as possible contact their MSPs to ask them to write to the First Minister and other relevant ministers laying out the serious dangers with ‘DIY’ home abortions and ask them to ensure that the temporary order allowing ‘DIY’ home abortion is revoked as soon as possible and not made permanent.

Right To Life UK have set up an easy-to-use tool which makes it simple to contact your MSPs in less than one minute. This tool can be accessed by visiting the link below:

www.righttolife.org.uk/notodiyabortion

WORLD DAY OF CONSECRATED LIFE

World Day for Consecrated Life will be celebrated on Sunday, February 2, 2021  Please pray for all those who have made commitments in the consecrated life, and be sure to thank them on their special day. May they continue to be inspired by Jesus Christ and  respond generously to God’s gift of their vocation.

PARISH OF THE                                                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND ALL SAINTS  

2^nd Sunday of the Year, B

17^th  January 2021

MASSES

Due to the present lockdown only the 10.30 a.m. Mass from All Saints Church will be streamed until further notice.

THEME

First reading:  1 Samuel 1-3. 3-10. 19

Samuel hears the call of God and responds: “your servant is listening.”

Second Reading:  1 Corinthians 6: 13-15. 17-20

Use your body for the glory of God, for it is the temple of the Holy Spirit.

Gospel:  John 1: 35-42

Jesus invites two budding disciples to come and spend time with him.

FEAST DAYS

Tuesday 23^rd                      St. Agnes

Catholic Adoption Agency, St Margaret’s Children and Family Care Society, any money donated to the Crib will be passed to St. Margaret’s Children and Family Care Society.  St Margaret’s Virtual Crib can be viewed, and online donations made at stmargaretsadoption.org.uk

VOCATIONS

Jesus invites Andrew and his friend to “Come and see.” Samuel says “Speak Lord, your servant is listening.” Could you take up the invitation? Are you ready to hear him call to you? Talk to your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

 WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY

Tomorrow, January 18 marks the beginning of the annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.  This year’s theme is  “Abide in my love… you shall bear much fruit.” (John 15:1-17) The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity will conclude on Monday, January 25

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS

A full list of parishes in our Diocese offering live streaming can be found at  https://www.rcdom.org.uk/live-mass

Please pray for the repose of the souls of

Archbishop Philip Tartaglia

Bishop Vincent Logan and

Fr. Eric Hunter.  Fr. Hunter celebrated Mass in

All Saints Church on a number of occasions

May they rest in peace, Amen.

PARISH OF THE                                                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND ALL SAINTS  

The Baptism of the Lord, Year B

10th January 2021

MASSES

Due to the present lockdown only the 10.30 a.m. Mass from All Saints Church will be streamed until further notice.

THEME

First reading:  Isaiah 55: 1-11

Those who thirst are invited to “come to the water”.

Second Reading:  1 John 5: 1-9

Christian life requires both faith in Jesus and love of other people.

Gospel:  Mark 1: 7-11

Mark’s Gospel starts with the “good news” of Jesus’ baptism at the beginning of his ministry.

FEAST DAYS:

Monday 11^th:               St. Kentigern

Sunday 17^th:                2^nd Sunday of the Year.

Catholic Adoption Agency, St Margaret’s Children and Family Care Society, any money donated to the Crib will be passed to St. Margaret’s Children and Family Care Society.  St Margaret’s Virtual Crib can be viewed, and online donations made at stmargaretsadoption.org.uk

VOCATIONS

“I have called you to serve the cause of right” What is your call? How will you serve the Lord and his people? Speak to  your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in 2021 has been prepared by the Monastic Community of Grandchamp in Switzerland.  The theme that was chosen, “Abide in my love and you shall bear much fruit”, is based on John 15:1-17 and expresses Grandchamp Community’s vocation to prayer, reconciliation and unity in the Church and the human family.

Sunday of the Word of God 24^th January 2021

Pope Francis’ Apostolic Letter, Motu proprio “Aperuit illis”, published on 30 September, establishes that “the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time is to be devoted to the celebration, study and dissemination of the Word of God”.

Pope Francis is inviting Catholics across the world to deepen their appreciation, love and faithful witness to God and his Word.

Pope Francis wants to stimulate all Christians not just to place the Bible on the shelf as one of many books, perhaps filled with dust, but as an instrument that awakens our faith.

LIVE STREAMING OF MASS

A full list of parishes in our Diocese offering live streaming can be found at  https://www.rcdom.org.uk/live-mass

PARISH OF THE                                                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND ALL SAINTS  

The Epiphany of the Lord, Year B

3rd January 2021

MASSES

All Saints Church:

Monday-Friday:  9.30 a.m.; (streamed) No Mass

Saturday:  4.30 p.m. Vigil Mass  (streamed)

Sunday:     10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. (both streamed)

Streamed masses are available on our YouTube channel,

Parish of the Most Blessed Trinity. Coatbridge

St. Stephen’s Church

Saturday:  5.30 p.m.     Vigil Mass

Sunday:     12.15 p.m.

MEMORY TREE    There is a Christmas Tree in the  Muiryhall Street Porch.  Gift tags are available, and you may want to remember an intention for  someone who has gone before marked with the sign of faith. Write on the gift tag and hang on a branch of the tree.

FEAST DAYS:

Thursday 7^th:               St. Raymond of Penyafort

Sunday 10^th:                The Baptism of the Lord, which marks the end of the Christmas season.

Catholic Adoption Agency, St Margaret’s Children and

Family Care Society

Any money donated to the Crib will be passed to St. Margaret’s Children and Family Care Society.

St Margaret’s Virtual Crib can be viewed, and online donations made at stmargaretsadoption.org.uk

TODAY IS THE WORLD DAY OF PEACE

A letter from Bishop Nolan regarding Justice and Peace is available on our website and Twitter page.

Donations to justice and Peace can be made by contacting

Justice & Peace Scotland

65 Bath Street, Glasgow G2 2BX, Phone 0141 333 0238, Email office@justiceandpeacescotland.org.uk

Monday to Wednesday, from 9:30am – 4 pm

WORLD DAY OF PEACE

“There can be no peace without a culture of care

The culture of care thus calls for a common, supportive and inclusive commitment to protecting and promoting the dignity and good of all, a willingness to show care and compassion, to work for reconciliation and healing, and to advance mutual respect and acceptance. As such, it represents a privileged path to peace. “In many parts of the world, there is a need for paths of peace to heal open wounds. There is also a need for peacemakers, men and women prepared to work boldly and creatively to initiate processes of healing and renewed encounter”.

At a time like this, when the barque of humanity, tossed by the storm of the current crisis, struggles to advance towards a calmer and more serene horizon, the “rudder” of human dignity and the “compass” of fundamental social principles can enable us together to steer a sure course. As Christians, we should always look to Our Lady, Star of the Sea and Mother of Hope. May we work together to advance towards a new horizon of love and peace, of fraternity and solidarity, of mutual support and acceptance. May we never yield to the temptation to disregard others, especially those in greatest need, and to look the other way;[26] instead, may we strive daily, in concrete and practical ways, “to form a community composed of brothers and sisters who accept and care for one another”

(Extract from Pope Francis’ Message for 54^th World Day of Peace.

VOCATIONS

Would you be able to take a different route from the one everyone else maps out for you if the Lord should call you to it? Give him your gifts in service!

Speak to  your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

LOTTERY

Due to the current situation,  it has been decided to cancel the Lottery meantime.  If anyone who pays by direct debit has been  paying since March and would like a refund, please see

Father Doyle or contact Thomas Bruin, 07568 320056

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Best wishes for a happy new year everyone.    

Father Doyle

PARISH OF THE                                                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND ALL SAINTS  

The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, Year B

27th December 2020

MASSES

All Saints Church:

Monday-Friday:  9.30 a.m.; (streamed) No Mass

Saturday:  4.30 p.m. Vigil Mass  (streamed)

Sunday:     10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. (both streamed)

Streamed masses are available on our YouTube channel,

Parish of the Most Blessed Trinity. Coatbridge

St. Stephen’s Church

Saturday:  5.30 p.m.     Vigil Mass

Sunday:     12.15 p.m.

THEME

First reading:  Genesis 15: 1-6. 21:1-3

Abram,  a name which means “father figure”, is told his name is to be Abraham, which means “father of a great nation”.

Second Reading:  Hebrews 11:8. 11-12. 17-19

Abraham is extolled as the example of great faith, trusting in God, even when what he experienced appeared to be the opposite of what God promised.

Gospel:  Luke 2: 22-40

Jesus’ parents present him in the Temple to fulfil what the Law required.  Jesus is revealed as the saviour, as witnessed by the prophetic figures of Simeon and Anna.

MEMORY TREE    There is a Christmas Tree in the  Muiryhall Street Porch.  Gift tags are available, and you may want to remember an intention for  someone who has gone before marked with the sign of faith. Write on the gift tag and hang on a branch of the tree.

FEAST DAYS:

Monday 28^th December 2020              The Holy Innocents

Wednesday 1^st January 2021              Mary, the Holy Mother of God.

Thursday 2^nd January 2020                 St. Basil and St. Gregory Nazianzen

Sunday 3^rd January 2020                      The Epiphany of the Lord

            WORLD DAY OF PEACE is on 3^rd January 2021,

            The Solemnity of the Epiphany.  A special collection

            Will be taken up for Justice and Peace next weekend.

WORLD DAY OF PEACE

The theme of Pope Francis message for the 54^th World Day of Peace is

“A Culture of Care as a Path to Peace”

In his message for the Catholic Church’s World Day of Peace, Pope Francis appeals to the international community and every individual to foster a “culture of care” by advancing on the “path of fraternity, justice and peace between individuals, communities, peoples and nations.”

The Holy Father calls for “a common, supportive and inclusive commitment to protecting and promoting the dignity and good of all, a willingness to show care and compassion, to work for reconciliation and healing, and to advance mutual respect and acceptance.” In this task, Pope Francis offers the principles of the Church’s social doctrine as a compass on the path to peace

VOCATIONS 

Prompted by the Spirit, Simeon came to the Temple.”  What is the Spirit prompting you to do with your life? Are you listening? Could it be, like Simeon, to point out Christ to others? Speak to  your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  01698 423044 or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

Catholic Adoption Agency, St Margaret’s Children

and Family Care Society,

Any money donated to the Crib will be passed to St. Margaret’s Children and Family Care Society.  St Margaret’s Virtual Crib can be viewed, and online donations made at stmargaretsadoption.org.uk

LOTTERY

Due to the current situation,  it has been decided to cancel the Lottery meantime.  If anyone who pays by direct debit has been  paying since March and would like a refund, please see Father Doyle or Contact Thomas Bruin, 07568 320056

PENNIES IN JARS – RESTORATION FUND

Pennies in Jars can be handed in at any Mass to one of the stewards and will be most gratefully accepted.

🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔷🔷🔷

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2021

🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔶🔷🔷🔷 

PARISH OF THE                                                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND ALL SAINTS  

4th Sunday of Advent, Year B

20th December 2020

MASSES

All Saints Church:

Monday-Friday:  9.30 a.m.; (streamed) No Mass

Saturday:  4.30 p.m. Vigil Mass  (streamed)

Sunday:     10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. (both streamed)

Streamed masses are available on our YouTube channel,

Parish of the Most Blessed Trinity. Coatbridge

St. Stephen’s Church

Saturday:  5.30 p.m.     Vigil Mass

Sunday:     12.15 p.m.

BOOKING OF MASSES

There is a form on the Home Page of our website to book online for Mass.  Please complete and press send.

You will be advised whether your application has been granted.

Due to the current restrictions only 50 people may attend Mass,  However, walk-up places are available.

Latest updates at https://www.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19/

THEME

First reading: 2 Samuel 7: 1-5. 8-12. 14-16

David is getting ready for his next big project.  Having overcome his enemies, he wonders if he now needs to build a house for the ark of God.  God, however, has different ideas of greatness.

Second Reading: Romans 16: 25-27

In his letter to the Romans, Paul explains that the mystery which has puzzled generations of seekers of truth has now been resolved.  The wisdom of God has been revealed in the person of Jesus.

Gospel:  Luke 1: 26-38

We see two sides of Mary’s character.  She is a meek and humble servant of the Lord, but she is also a strong and courageous young woman, able to ask sensible questions, even of an angel, the messenger of  God.

**************************

I wish you and your families happiness and peace

this  Christmas and in the New Year.                        

Father Doyle

**************************

CONFESSIONS:

Monday 6 30 p.m. – 8 00 p.m. (Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament)

In All Saint Church.

There will also be Confessions after the Sunday Masses in St. Stephen’s Church.

Christmas Masses

All Saints: Christmas Eve:

Vigil Masses of Christmas 4 .00 p.m. & 6 .00 p.m., Midnight Mass: 12.00 Midnight,

Christmas Day Masses: 10.00 a.m. & 11.30 a.m.

St Stephen’s: Christmas Eve:

Vigil Masses of Christmas 5.00 p.m. & 6.30 p.m.,

Christmas Day Masses 10.00am. 11.15 a.m.

MEMORY TREE    There is a Christmas Tree in the  Muiryhall Street Porch.  Gift tags are available, and you may want to remember an intention for  someone who has gone before marked with the sign of faith. Write on the gift tag and hang on a branch of the tree.

FEAST DAYS:

Friday Christmas Day                 the Solemnity of the Lord’s Nativity

Saturday                                           St Stephen’s Day

Next Sunday                                   Feast of the Holy Family

Year of St Joseph 

On the 8^th of December, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception Pope Francis declared a year in honour of St Joseph. This is the 150th ANNIVERSARY of St Joseph being named the guardian of the Universal Church.

Pope Francis said the coronavirus pandemic has heightened his desire to reflect on St. Joseph, as so many people during the pandemic have made hidden sacrifices to protect others, just as St. Joseph quietly protected and cared for Mary and Jesus.

“Each of us can discover in Joseph — the man who goes unnoticed, a daily, discreet and hidden presence — an intercessor, a support and a guide in times of trouble,” the pope wrote.

He also said he wanted to highlight St. Joseph’s role as a father who served his family with charity and humility, adding, “Our world today needs fathers.”

Hail, Guardian of the Redeemer, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. To you God entrusted his only Son; in you Mary placed her trust; with you Christ became man.

Blessed Joseph, to us too, show yourself a father and guide us in the path of life. 
Obtain for us grace, mercy, and courage, and defend us from every evil.  Amen.

PENNIES IN JARS – RESTORATION FUND

Pennies in Jars can be handed in at any Mass to one of the stewards and will be most gratefully accepted.

RIGHT TO LIFE

“Right To Life UK has had a challenging and busy year, with the abortion lobby attempting to exploit the COVID-19 crisis at every step to seek changes to abortion legislation and policy.

Thanks to your support we have been able to put up a strong fight every time they have attempted to advance their campaign in Parliament, the media and amongst the wider public.

Alongside this, we have been able to secure a number of key victories and achievements.

BISHOP TOAL’S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE  –  2020

 In recent days, Pope Francis announced that the Church would celebrate  a Year in honour of St Joseph, marking  the 150^th Anniversary of St Joseph’s proclamation as Patron of the Universal Church by Blessed Pius IX. In doing so Our Holy Father has written a beautiful Apostolic letter, Patris Corde, offering some personal reflections on St Joseph, “this extraordinary figure so close to our own human experience”. In extolling his greatness as spouse of Mary and legal father of Jesus, he acknowledged how St Joseph placed the whole of his life in God’s hands and at the service of God’s plan of salvation in a quiet, discreet way, unnoticed almost, but vitally important in caring for and protecting Mary and Jesus through the years he shared with them in Bethlehem, Egypt and Nazareth. His figure in our Christmas cribs portrays this quiet reassuring presence who lovingly looks down on the infant Jesus, accepting the vocation as father and guardian which God has asked of him.

Pope Francis encourages us to discover in St Joseph an intercessor, a support, and a guide in time of trouble, and reminds us that is often those who appear hidden or in the shadows who play an incomparable role in God’s plan for our salvation. Indeed, he makes a comparison between St Joseph and the many wonderful people who have assisted us through the present time of pandemic, remarking that “our lives are woven together and sustained by ordinary people, people often overlooked. People who do not appear in newspaper or magazine headlines, or in the latest television show, yet in these very days are surely shaping the decisive events of our history.” We have certainly become very aware through recent times of how much we depend on the “essential” workers and volunteers in our society, and, in recognising in them a reflection  of the generous and self-giving  qualities of St Joseph the Worker, Pope Francis offers a word of recognition and gratitude to them all. I am sure we echo these sentiments as we hope and pray for the health and well-being of all who continue to suffer in our present situation.

As we ponder with Joseph and Mary, the shepherds and wise men, the child in the manger, we place our hope in him as Our Lord and Saviour and renew our desire to serve and love him  in the fullest way possible with the help of his grace. He is indeed “the loving kindness of the heart of our God, who visits us like the dawn from on high” as proclaimed in the lovely prayer of Zechariah, the Benedictus, in St Luke’s Gospel.

The Benedictus concludes “He will give light to those in darkness, those who dwell in the shadow of death, and guide us into the way of peace”. May these words dwell in our hearts as we implore the Lord’s blessing on all our loved ones, and indeed the whole of humanity. May the Lord grant us his peace this Christmas.

+ Joseph Toal                                                December 2020.

VOCATIONS 

If you think you have a vocation to the priesthood  call your Diocesan Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  (01698 423044) or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

Sunday Reflection: 

What is announced to Mary in today’s Gospel is the revelation of all that the prophets had spoken. It is, as Paul declares in today’s Epistle, the mystery kept secret since before the foundation of the world (see Ephesians 1:9; 3:3–9).

Mary is the virgin prophesied to bear a son of the house of David (see Isaiah 7:13–14). And nearly every word the angel speaks to her today evokes and echoes the long history of salvation recorded in the Bible.

Mary is hailed as the “daughter Jerusalem,” called to rejoice that her king, the Lord God, has come into her midst as a mighty savior (see Zephaniah 3:14–17).

The One whom Mary is to bear will be Son of “the Most High”—an ancient divine title first used to describe the God of the priest-king Melchizedek, who brought out bread and wine to bless Abraham at

the dawn of salvation history (see Genesis 14:18–19).

He will fulfill the covenant God makes with His chosen one, David, in today’s First Reading. As we sing in today’s Psalm, He will reign forever as highest of the kings of the earth, and He will call God “my Father.” As Daniel saw the Most High grant everlasting dominion to the Son of Man (see Daniel 4:14; 7:14), His kingdom will have no end.

He is to rule over the house of Jacob—the title God used in making His covenant with Israel at Sinai (see Exodus 19:3), and again used in promising that all nations would worship the God of Jacob (see Isaiah 2:1–5).

Jesus has been made known, Paul says today, to bring all nations to the obedience of faith. We are called with Mary today to marvel at all that the Lord has done throughout the ages for our salvation. And we too must respond to this annunciation with humble obedience—that His will be done, that our lives be lived according to His word.

LOTTERY

Due to the current situation,  it has been decided to cancel the Lottery meantime.  If anyone who pays by direct debit has been  paying since March and would like a refund, please see Father Doyle or Contact Thomas Bruin, 07568 320056

Catholic Adoption Agency, St Margaret’s Children and Family Care Society,

Any money donated to the Crib will be passed to St. Margaret’s Children and Family Care Society.

St Margaret’s Virtual Crib can be viewed and online donations made at stmargaretsadoption.org.uk

JUSTICE AND PEACE:  The Day of Peace will be celebrated on 3^rd January 2021.

A special collection for Justice and Peace will be taken up that weekend.

PARISH OF THE                                                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND ALL SAINTS  

3rd Sunday of Advent, Year B

^13th December 2020

MASSES

All Saints Church:

Monday-Friday:  9.30 a.m; (streamed) No Mass

Saturday:  4.30 p.m. Vigil Mass  (streamed)

Sunday:     10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. (both streamed)

Streamed masses are available on our YouTube channel,

Parish of the Most Blessed Trinity. Coatbridge

St. Stephen’s Church

Saturday:  5.30 p.m.     Vigil Mass

Sunday:     12.15 p.m.

BOOKING OF MASSES

There is a form on the Home Page of our website to book online for Mass.  Please complete and press send.

You will be advised whether your application has been granted.

Due to the current restrictions only 50 people may attend Mass.  However, walk-up places are available.

Latest updates at https://www.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19/

THEME

First reading: Isaiah 61: 1 -2.  3-10

When humanity truly flourishes, the earth flourishes.

Second Reading:  1 Thessalonians 5: 16-24

Human beings need to pray, like they need to eat and drink.

Gospel:  John 1: 6-8/ 19-28

We can say what God is not, we can say what the Christ is not, but it is God who reveals God to us, first in the humanity of Christ and finally in the vision of his Godhead.

FEAST DAYS

Monday 14^th                                          St. John of the Cross

Christmas Masses

All Saints: Christmas Eve:

Vigil Masses of Christmas 4 .00 p.m. & 6 .00 p.m., Midnight Mass: 12.00 Midnight,

Christmas Day Masses: 10.00 a.m. & 11.30 a.m.

St Stephen’s: Christmas Eve:

Vigil Masses of Christmas 5.00 p.m. & 6.30 p.m.,

Christmas Day Masses 10.00am. 11.15 a.m.

At present we are awaiting guidance from the Government regarding the number of people who will be able to attend these Masses.  We will advise you as soon as we know.

MEMORY TREE    There is a Christmas Tree in the  Muiryhall Street Porch.  Gift tags are available, and you may want to remember an intention for  someone who has gone before marked with the sign of faith. Write on the gift tag and hang on a branch of the tree.

LAST POSTING DATES FOR CHRISTMAS

Second Class                         Friday 18^th December

First Class                              Monday 21^st December

RIGHT TO LIFE

The assisted suicide lobby have launched a large campaign to put pressure on the Government to reconsider the legalisation of assisted suicide.

It is vital that it is made clear to the Government that the public want them to continue to hold strong against this pressure from assisted suicide campaigners and reject their demands.

Go to their website and click on the button  to email your MP asking them to make it clear to the Government that it should not give into demands from the assisted suicide lobby to reconsider the legalisation of assisted suicide. It only takes 30 seconds.    Please ask your friends and family to do the same.

VOCATIONS 

If you think you have a vocation to the priesthood  call your Diocesan Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  (01698 423044) or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

LOTTERY

Due to the current situation,  it has been decided to cancel the Lottery meantime.  If anyone who pays by direct debit has been  paying since March and would like a refund, please see Father Doyle or Contact Thomas Bruin, 07568320056

PENNIES IN JARS – RESTORATION FUND

Pennies in Jars can be handed in at any Mass to one of the stewards and will be most gratefully accepted.

Catholic Adoption Agency, St Margaret’s Children and Family Care Society, which supports some of Scotland’s most vulnerable children, is hosting a ‘Virtual Crib’ this Advent. The charity could lose up to £100k in donations made by the Catholic community to its annual Crib Appeal collection boxes as congregation sizes remain limited due to Covid19.

The Virtual Crib will be on St Margaret’s website from Sunday 29 November until the Feast of the Epiphany on 6 January. The Virtual Crib is a peaceful, animated crib scene accompanied by a full Christmas Carol Concert from the St Andrew’s Cathedral Choir. Viewers will also hear a specially recorded version of ‘Oh Holy Night’ sung by St Andrew’s Choir Director and St Margaret’s Origins Worker, Maria Madden. Visitors to the St Margaret’s Virtual Crib will be able to read messages from some of the families supported this year and donate on the website page or alternatively can post a cheque to the charity’s office at 26 Newton Place, Glasgow, G3 7PY – those who wish more information can call the charity on 0141 332 8371.

St Margaret’s Virtual Crib will be live from Sunday 29 November

To view the crib and make donations online visit

stmargaretsadoption.org.uk

THANK YOU to all who helped to raise and decorate the Christmas tree in the church.  Your help was most appreciated.

“The Legion of Mary Wayside Club, 32 Midland Street, Glasgow G1 4PR –

‘Reaching out since 1932’ 

The Wayside Club provides a daily evening meal to the homeless of Glasgow, prior to COVID this would have been a shared meal with the opportunity for social connection and spiritual support from a member of the Legion of Mary with an opportunity to join in evening prayer. During COVID we have continued to provide take-away food and support and advice about accessing other agencies.   

We are keen to promote our service amongst Catholics who could help us by becoming legionaries to provide practical and spiritual support to our clients. We also want to encourage Auxiliary members   who would be prepared to support us in prayer.   

Rev. John Fletcher

Permanent Deacon

Spiritual Director

Our Lady of the Wayside Praesidium.

John.Fletcher@rcag.org.uk                    Mob: 07767122295                   Home: 01360 771116

PARISH OF THE                                                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND ALL SAINTS  

2^nd Sunday of Advent, Year B

6^th December 2020

MASSES

All Saints Church:

Monday-Friday:  9.30 a.m; (streamed) No Mass

Saturday:  4.30 p.m. Vigil Mass  (streamed)

Sunday:     10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. (both streamed)

Streamed masses are available on our YouTube channel,

Parish of the Most Blessed Trinity. Coatbridge

St. Stephen’s Church

Saturday:  5.30 p.m.     Vigil Mass

Sunday:     12.15 p.m.

BOOKING OF MASSES

There is a form on the Home Page of our website to book online for Mass.  Please complete and press send.

You will be advised whether your application has been granted.

Due to the current restrictions only 20 people may attend Mass and no walk-up places are available.

Latest updates at https://www.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19/

THEME

First reading: Isaiah 40: 1-5. 9-11

\god tells the people of Israel to be  consoled; they have paid the price of their sins and must now prepare a way for the Lord in a repentant heart.

Second Reading:  1 Peter 3: 8-14

We are waiting for God to bring about the long-promised new heavens and new earth.  In the meantime, we should  live good lives and be at peace.

Gospel:  Mark 1: 1-8

John the Baptist appeared, promising that he was preparing the way for someone greater than himself.  He baptised with water  but the one whose coming he foretold would baptise with the Holy Spirit.

FEAST DAYS

Monday                                St Ambrose

Tuesday                                Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception

Thursday                              Our Lady of Loreto

Christmas Masses

All Saints: Christmas Eve:

Vigil Masses of Christmas 4 .00 p.m. & 6 .00 p.m., Midnight Mass: 12.00 Midnight,

Christmas Day Masses: 10.00 a.m. & 11.30 a.m.

St Stephen’s: Christmas Eve:

Vigil Masses of Christmas 5.00 p.m. & 6.30 p.m.,

Christmas Day Masses 10.00am. 11.15 a.m.

At present we are awaiting guidance from the Government regarding the number of people who will be able to attend these Masses.  We will advise you as soon as we know.

FUNERALS

 Monday 9.30 a.m.             James Kearney

There will be no public Mass on Monday as the funeral Mass is for family and close friends.

Wednesday 11.00 a.m.    William Carswell

Confirmations:

Please remember in your prayers our Confirmandi who will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, and Monday of next week in St Stephen’s Church.

Sunday Reflection: 

Our God is coming. The time of exile— the long separation of humankind from God due to sin—is about to end. This is the good news proclaimed in today’s liturgy.

Isaiah in today’s First Reading promises Israel’s future release and return from captivity and exile. But as today’s Gospel shows, Israel’s historic deliverance was meant to herald an even greater saving act by God—the coming of Jesus to set Israel and all nations free from bondage to sin, to gather them up and carry them back to God.

God sent an angel before Israel to lead them in their exodus towards the promised land. And He promised to send a messenger of the covenant, Elijah, to purify the people and turn their hearts to the Father before the day of the Lord.

John the Baptist quotes these, as well as Isaiah’s prophecy, to show that all of Israel’s history looks forward to the revelation of Jesus. In Jesus, God has filled in the valley that divided sinful humanity from Himself. He has reached down from heaven and made His glory to dwell on earth, as we sing in today’s Psalm.

He has done all this not for humanity in the abstract but for each of us. The long history of salvation has led us to this Eucharist, in which our God again comes, and our salvation is near. And each of us must hear in today’s readings a personal call. Here is your God, Isaiah says. He has been patient with you, Peter says in today’s Epistle.

RIGHT TO LIFE have a new digital news platform.  Go to https//righttolife.org.uk/news to view.

MARY’S MEALS  invite you to set a place for a loved one at their virtual Christmas table.

This year, the cost of a typical Christmas dinner could be up to £20 per person. But by setting a place at their virtual table for just £15.90 you can help feed a child at a place of education in some of the world’s poorest communities for an entire school year.

And it gets even better! Give until 31 January 2021 and your donation will be doubled by the UK government, up to £2 million – meaning they can reach even more hungry children in Liberia with life-changing school meals.

Thanks to Double The Love, your donation will now feed two children for a whole school year with Mary’s Meals for just £15.90!

Further information on their website at   https://bigfamilychristmas.marysmeals.org.uk/

VOCATIONS 

If you think you have a vocation to the priesthood  call your Diocesan Vocations Director,

Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  (01698 423044) or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

PENNIES IN JARS – RESTORATION FUND

Pennies in Jars can be handed in at any Mass to one of the stewards and will be most gratefully accepted.

Catholic Adoption Agency, St Margaret’s Children and Family Care Society, which supports some of Scotland’s most vulnerable children, is hosting a ‘Virtual Crib’ this Advent. The charity could lose up to £100k in donations made by the Catholic community to its annual Crib Appeal collection boxes as congregation sizes remain limited due to Covid19.

The Virtual Crib will be on St Margaret’s website from Sunday 29 November until the Feast of the Epiphany on 6 January. The Virtual Crib is a peaceful, animated crib scene accompanied by a full Christmas Carol Concert from the St Andrew’s Cathedral Choir. Viewers will also hear a specially recorded version of ‘Oh Holy Night’ sung by St Andrew’s Choir Director and St Margaret’s Origins Worker, Maria Madden. Visitors to the St Margaret’s Virtual Crib will be able to read messages from some of the families supported this year and donate on the website page or alternatively can post a cheque to the charity’s office at 26 Newton Place, Glasgow, G3 7PY – those who wish more information can call the charity on 0141 332 8371.

Donations to St Margaret’s pays for:

£20      1:2:1 support session for a member of the teenagers ‘Connect Group’

£40      Two teachers receive training on the impact of trauma

£50      One ‘TherAdopt’ pack of resources to support a new family in the early stages of placement

£100    Five children attending Therapeutic Playgroup for an entire term

£250    One person’s ‘origins journey’ from the initial enquiry, public records search, communication between all parties through to a reunion, where appropriate

£500    A block of individual therapy e.g. Art/Play Therapy for an adopted child

£1,000 Specialized training for a staff member to support the St Margaret’s families

St Margaret’s Virtual Crib will be live from Sunday 29 November

To view the crib and make donations online visit

stmargaretsadoption.org.uk

“The Legion of Mary Wayside Club, 32 Midland Street, Glasgow G1 4PR –

‘Reaching out since 1932’ 

The Wayside Club provides a daily evening meal to the homeless of Glasgow, prior to COVID this would have been a shared meal with the opportunity for social connection and spiritual support from a member of the Legion of Mary with an opportunity to join in evening prayer. During COVID we have continued to provide take-away food and support and advice about accessing other agencies.   

We are keen to promote our service amongst Catholics who could help us by becoming legionaries to provide practical and spiritual support to our clients. We also want to encourage Auxiliary members   who would be prepared to support us in prayer.   

Rev. John Fletcher

Permanent Deacon

Spiritual Director

Our Lady of the Wayside Praesidium.

John.Fletcher@rcag.org.uk

Mob: 07767122295

Home: 01360 771116

PARISH OF THE                                                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND ALL SAINTS  

1^st Sunday of Advent, Year B

29th November 2020

MASSES

All Saints Church:

Monday-Friday:  9.30 a.m; (streamed)

Saturday:  4.30 p.m. Vigil Mass  (streamed)

Sunday:     10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. (both streamed)

Streamed masses are available on our YouTube channel,

Parish of the Most Blessed Trinity. Coatbridge

St. Stephen’s Church

Saturday:  5.30 p.m.     Vigil Mass

Sunday:     12.15 p.m.

BOOKING OF MASSES

There is a form on the Home Page of our website to book online for Mass.  Please complete and press send.

You will be advised whether your application has been granted.

Due to the current restrictions only 20 people may attend Mass and no walk-up places are available.

Latest updates at https://www.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19/

THEME

First reading:  63: 16-17; 64:1. 3-8

The prophet prays that God would tear open the heavens and come down.

Second Reading:  1 Corinthians 1: 3-9

St. Paul prays that his community will be open to God’s Spirit as they await the coming of Christ.

Gospel:  Mark 13: 33-37

Jesus tells his disciples to stay awake as they await the return of their master.

FEAST DAYS

Monday                    Solemnity of St. Andrew Apostle & Patron of Scotland

Thursday                St Francis Xavier

Season of Advent

Advent has a twofold character: for it is a time of preparation for the Solemnities of Christmas, in which the First Coming of the Son of God to humanity is remembered; and likewise when, by remembrance of this, minds and hearts are led to look forward to Christ’s Second Coming at the end of time. For these two reasons, Advent is a period for devout and expectant delight

The Sundays of Advent

Each gospel reading has a distinctive theme: the Lord’s coming at the end of time (First Sunday of Advent), John the Baptist (Second and Third Sunday), and the events that prepared immediately for the Lord’s birth (Fourth Sunday).

The Old Testament readings are prophecies about the Messiah and the Messianic age, especially from the Isaiah.

The readings from an apostle serve as exhortations and as proclamations, in keeping with the different themes of Advent.

St Andrew Patron of Scotland

Andrew, like his brother Simon Peter, was a fisherman. He became a disciple of the great St. John the Baptist, but when John pointed to Jesus and said, “Behold the Lamb of God!” Andrew understood that Jesus was greater. At once he left John to follow the Divine Master. Jesus knew that Andrew was walking behind him, and turning back, he asked, “what do you seek?” When Andrew answered that he would like to know where Jesus lived, Our Lord replied, “Come and see.” Andrew had been only a little time with Jesus when he realized that this was truly the Messiah.

From then on, he chose to follow Jesus. Andrew was thus the first disciple of Christ. Next, Andrew brought his brother Simon (St. Peter) to Jesus and Jesus received him, too, as His disciple. At first the two brothers continued to carry on their fishing trade and family affairs, but later, the Lord called them to stay with Him all the time. He promised to make them fishers of men, and this time, they left their nets for good. It is believed that after Our Lord ascended into Heaven, St. Andrew went to Greece to preach the gospel. He is said to have been put to death on a cross, to which he was tied, not nailed. He lived two days in that state of suffering, still preaching to the people who gathered around their beloved Apostle

St Francis Xavier:

In art, St Francis Xavier is often depicted holding a crucifix aloft to represent the zeal he felt for bringing Christ’s Gospel to those who had not heard it. Like St Ignatius Loyola, he originally had worldly ambitions, but on meeting Ignatius in Paris at the age of 19, he realised the power of the Spiritual Exercises and studied instead for the priesthood. He became one of Ignatius’ first Companions and took vows of poverty and chastity with Ignatius at Montmartre in 1534. He was ordained three years later.

Shortly afterwards, King John of Portugal asked Ignatius to send missionaries to India, and Francis was chosen for the task. He arrived in Goa in May 1542, from where he travelled to south east India and worked for three years among the pearl-fishers there. He visited the sick in the hospitals and preached, going through the streets ringing a little bell and inviting the children to hear the Word of God. When he had gathered a number, he would take them to a certain church and would there explain the Christian faith to them.

From India, Francis sailed to the East Indies, before deciding in 1549 to set out for Japan. In his first year there, he learnt Japanese and translated some basic documents about the faith into local dialects. Wherever he went in Asia, Francis left behind flourishing Christian communities which survive to this day.

In total, Francis spent ten years working as a missionary in Asia; some have called him the greatest missionary since Saint Paul. His final ambition was to preach the Gospel in China but this was not to be. He was taken ill and died on 3 December 1552, on an island off the coast of China. He was canonised with Ignatius in 1622.

Sunday Reflection: 

The new Church year begins with a plea for God’s visitation. “Oh that you would rend the heavens and come down,” the prophet Isaiah cries in today’s First Reading.

In today’s Psalm, too, we hear the anguished voice of Israel, imploring God to look down from His heavenly throne—to save and shepherd His people.

Today’s readings are relatively brief. Their language and “message” are deceptively simple. But we should take note of the serious mood and penitential aspect of the Liturgy today—as the people of Israel recognize their sinfulness, their failures to keep God’s covenant, their inability to save themselves.

And in this Advent season, we should see our own lives in the experience of Israel. As we examine our consciences, can’t we, too, find that we often harden our hearts, refuse His rule, wander from His ways, withhold our love from Him?

God is faithful, Paul reminds us in today’s Epistle. He is our Father. He has hearkened to the cry of His children, coming down from heaven for Israel’s sake and for ours to redeem us from our exile from God, to restore us to His love.

In Jesus, we have seen the Father (see John 14:8–9). The Father has let His face shine upon us. He is the good shepherd (see John 10:11–15) come to guide us to the heavenly kingdom. No matter how far we have strayed, He will give us new life if we turn to Him, if we call upon His holy name, if we pledge anew never again to withdraw from Him.

As Paul says today, He has given us every spiritual gift—especially the Eucharist and penance—to strengthen us as we await Christ’s final coming. He will keep us firm to the end—if we let Him.

So, in this season of repentance, we should heed the warning—repeated three times by our Lord in today’s Gospel—to be watchful, for we know not the hour when the Lord of the house will return.

MASS FOR DECEASED CLERGY will be live streamed on Friday 4^th December at 12 noon from St. Barbara’s, Muirhead.

Before the Mass, Fr Michael Briody with offer an introduction beginning at 11.45am – this will recall a little of the lives and ministry of the priests who have died since the Mass for Deceased Clergy last December.

VOCATIONS 

To be a priest in Scotland today is “a life worth living” and a path worth taking. So give it some quiet thought. It can be a challenging life but it can also be a very rewarding life where you are able to make a difference in the lives of others. Are you thinking about becoming a priest?

Call your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  (01698 423044) or email frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

A SPECIAL COLLECTION will be taken up in December for St. Andrew’s hospice.

PENNIES IN JARS – RESTORATION FUND

 Pennies in Jars can be handed in at any Mass to one of the stewards and will be most gratefully accepted.

ADVENT QUIET TIME VIA ZOOM

The Diocesan Adult Formation Team is hosting 4 online meetings during Advent: meditations on the Sunday Gospel with music, reflection and prayer.

These will take place each Sunday of Advent, 29^th November, 6^th, 13^th and 20^th December from 7-7.30pm. Anyone interested should contact Fr Magill at missions@rcdom.org.uk.

University of Glasgow Research

 Researchers at the University of Glasgow are interested in varying levels of religiousness and mental wellbeing. Clergy and parishioners are invited to take part in a 10-minute anonymous study in which they will answer questions about their faith, their mental wellbeing, and complete a short experiment in which they will identify emotion in voices. The anonymous experiment can be accessed online with the following link: https://exp.psy.gla.ac.uk/project?religion_wellbeing_study&auto

Information from Bishop Toal

There is a lot of anger being expressed this afternoon by the Chancellor’s announcement that the Overseas Aid Budget is being cut from 0.7% to 0.5% of GDP. In anticipation of this cut, I signed the letters below, as Bishop President of SCIAF and along with the Bishop Chairs of CAFOD and Trocaire, to the Editor of The Telegraph and to the Prime Minister. I understand the letter to the Press will appear in The Telegraph tomorrow.

I am happy to let people know I have taken this action in support of the poor people who will miss out from our country’s support because of this cut.

Dear Editor

The pandemic and the ongoing climate crisis prompt us to think deeply on who is our neighbour.

Pope Francis’ recent encyclical, Fratelli Tutti, relates this question to our current lack of imagination to see beyond the tired insular script we tell ourselves. We have one common home and the goods created therein are for all to share ensuring the poorest and most vulnerable are at the centre. We firmly believe our aid budget is an expression of seeing one common home and a sharing of ‘our’ goods. We fail to see how such an expression of love is cut whilst military spending increased. This is a failure of imagination and shows a lack of faith in relationships and humanity. The UK government has a vital leadership role next year with the hosting of the G7 and climate talks in the UK.

We pray for an imagination to see one common home and her people who are both hurting and need urgent and ambitious action.

Best wishes

_______________________

Dear Prime Minister

We were dismayed to hear that the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, is considering bringing proposals to reduce the UK’s contribution to overseas aid from 0.7% to 0.5% in the Comprehensive Spending Review discussions.

We understand the financial challenges and difficulties the UK government faces. However, the legal commitment to spend 0.7% of GNI on aid already allows for fluctuations of the UK economy. Spending in response to the suffering of the world’s poorest people has already been cut by nearly £3 billion this year. The impact of Covid-19 is being felt most by these people. The numbers of people at risk of extreme hunger has doubled to 270 million as a result of COVID 19.

This pandemic and the ongoing climate crisis has prompted us therefore to think much more about who is our neighbour. The aid budget provides a vital and lifesaving answer to that question. It is an expression of how we stand in solidarity with those who face injustice and suffering in the poorest communities around the world. We fail to see how such vital aid can be cut whilst military spending is increased.

The Government has a vital leadership role at the climate talks next year in delivering real and urgent action. We must not allow anything, such as a reduction in the aid budget, to damage UK leadership next year. Pope Francis has continually called us to look outwards to our neighbours and not work in isolation. More than ever, the UK must do this through its aid budget, through its leadership on climate and through its ability to recognise who are our neighbours.

PARISH OF THE                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND ALL SAINTS  

Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, A

22nd November 2020

MASSES

All Saints Church:

Monday-Friday:  9.30 a.m; (streamed)

Saturday:  4.30 p.m. Vigil Mass  (streamed)

Sunday:     10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. (both streamed)

Streamed masses are available on our YouTube channel,

Parish of the Most Blessed Trinity. Coatbridge

St. Stephen’s Church

Saturday:  5.30 p.m.     Vigil Mass

Sunday:     12.15 p.m.

BOOKING OF MASSES

There is a form on the Home Page of our website to book online for Mass.  Please complete and press send.

You will be advised whether your application has been granted.

Due to the current restrictions only 20 people may attend Mass and no walk-up places are available.

Latest updates at https://www.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19/

THEME

First reading:  Ezekiel 34: 11-12. 15-17

The Lord is exasperated  that those who were appointed to look after god’s people have used their position for their own advantage and neglected their responsibilities.  The Lord will take care  of the flock from now on.

Second Reading:  1 Corinthians 15: 20-26. 28

Paul looks forward to the coming of Christ in glory at the end of time.

Gospel:  Matthew 25: 31-46

The trial scene, set at the end of time, reveals God’s judgement on how we have responded to the needs of our fellow human beings.

FEAST DAYS

Tuesday 24^th                           St Andrew Dung Lac and Companions.

Sunday 29^th                            First Sunday of Advent and the start of a new Church year.

November is the Month of the Holy Souls when in charity we are called to remember the Faithful Departed in our prayers, especially at Holy Mass. Catholic tradition invites us to pray for and have mass offered for our Loved Ones who have gone before us to their eternal reward.

“It is therefore a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead that they may be loosed of their sins.”  Maccabees 12:42-46

NOVEMBER LISTS are available at the exit door.                                         One mass each day during November will be offered for all those whose names are contained in the November Lists. 

Any money enclosed will be removed  before the lists are placed on the altar.

SOLEMNITY OF CHRIST THE KING

Reflection of Christ the King:

Many saints and Church leaders have seen a connection between Christ’s words in the Gospel for the Solemnity of Christ the King and His promise to be present in the Eucharist.

 For instance, St Mother Teresa of Calcutta used to say of her work with the destitute: “In Holy Communion we have Christ under the appearance of bread. In our work we find Him under the appearance of flesh and blood. It is the same Christ. ‘I was hungry, I was naked, I was sick, I was homeless.’”

St. John Chrysostom, the great patriarch of Eastern Catholicism, said the same thing in the fourth century: “Do you wish to honour the body of Christ? Do not ignore Him when He is naked. Do not pay Him homage in the temple clad in silk only then to neglect Him outside where He suffers cold and nakedness. He who said: ‘This is my body’ is the same One who said: ‘You saw me hungry and you gave me no food’, and ‘Whatever you did to the least of my brothers you did also to me’ . . . What good is it if the Eucharistic table is overloaded with golden chalices, when He is dying of hunger? Start by satisfying His hunger, and then with what is left you may adorn the altar as well.”

The Church year ends today with a vision of the end of time. The scene in the Gospel is stark and resounds with Old Testament echoes.

The Son of Man is enthroned over all nations and peoples of every language. The nations have been gathered to see His glory and receive His judgment. The King is the divine shepherd Ezekiel foresees in today’s First Reading, judging as a shepherd separates sheep from goats.

Each of us will be judged upon our performance of the simple works of mercy we hear in the Gospel today.

These works, as Jesus explains today, are reflections or measures of our love for Him, our faithfulness to His commandment that we love God with all our might and our neighbor as ourselves.

Our faith is dead, lifeless, unless it be expressed in works of love. And we cannot say we truly love God, whom we cannot see, if we don’t love our neighbour, whom we can. The Lord is our shepherd, as we sing in today’s Psalm. And we are to follow His lead, to imitate His example. He healed our sickness, freed us from the prison of sin and death, welcomed us who were once strangers to His covenant. He clothed us in baptism and feeds us with the food and drink of His own body and blood.

At “the end,” He will come again to hand over His kingdom to His Father, as Paul says in today’s Epistle.

Let us strive to be following Him in right paths, that this kingdom might be our inheritance, that we might enter into the eternal rest promised for the people of God.

NEXT SUNDAY SEES THE BEGINNING OF THE SEASON OF ADVENT

Season of Advent

Advent has a twofold character: for it is a time of preparation for the Solemnities of Christmas, in which the First Coming of the Son of God to humanity is remembered; and likewise when, by remembrance of this, minds and hearts are led to look forward to Christ’s Second Coming at the end of time. For these two reasons, Advent is a period for devout and expectant delight

The Sundays of Advent

Each gospel reading has a distinctive theme: the Lord’s coming at the end of time (First Sunday of Advent), John the Baptist (Second and Third Sunday), and the events that prepared immediately for the Lord’s birth (Fourth Sunday).

The Old Testament readings are prophecies about the Messiah and the Messianic age, especially from the Isaiah.

The readings from an apostle serve as exhortations and as proclamations, in keeping with the different themes of Advent.

MASS FOR DECEASED CLERGY will be live streamed on Friday 4^th December at 12 noon from

St. Barbara’s, Muirhead.

VOCATIONS 

“I shall look after my flock myself… I myself will pasture my sheep.” Is the Lord asking you to be share in his pastoral love for his people, perhaps in diocesan priesthood, diaconate or religious life? Call your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone  (01698 423044) or email at frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or  Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

A SPECIAL COLLECTION will be taken up in December for St. Andrew’s hospice.

ST. ANDREWS’ HOSPICE LIGHT UP A LIFE

This year, due to COVID-19 restrictions, St. Andrew’s Hospice will be streaming their annual

Light up a Life service online.

You are invited to attend the ceremony which will be broadcast on Sunday 29th November at 7:00pm.

The service can be viewed on:
Facebook: facebook.com/StAndrewsHospice1
YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/standrewshospicedove

PENNIES IN JARS – RESTORATION FUND

Pennies in Jars can be handed in at any Mass to one of the stewards and will be most gratefully accepted.

AID TO THE CHURCHY IN NEED

ACN’s #RedWednesday Campaign  will take place on Wednesday 25th November.  Below are links to their Digital Showreel, Online Event and Petition.

“Scottish RedWednesday Digital Showreel: In addition to the mini events that will take place in schools and parishes on RedWednesday, ACN in Scotland have created a digital showreel which captures the spirit of our RedWednesday Campaign in Scotland. MSP’s, Faith Leaders, Students, Teachers and Benefactors will share what our campaign means to them and highlight why it is important to make a stand for Religious Freedom.     Please follow the link to view > https://youtu.be/yxqH3_Ca98w

ACN Scotland National RedWednesday Event, Sponsored by John Mason MSP: We invite you to our ACN Scotland National RedWednesday Event on Wednesday 25^th November at 7.30pm.  ‘ACN’s #Red Wednesday Event is an evening for the people of Scotland to stand together to raise the profile of what is happening to Christians and all those persecuted for their peacefully held beliefs around the world.’ Speakers: John Pontifex, ACN’s Head of Press and Media, Jamie Kerr, Specialist on Immigration Law and a Minister of the Scottish Parliament TBC. The event will be live streamed via our Crowdcast platform, please follow the link below prior to the event and click the ‘Save my spot’ button to gain access on the evening of the event. Crowdcast Link: https://www.crowdcast.io/e/acn-scotland-national

Aid to the Church in Need ‘Set You Captives Free Petition: Over the last five years our #RedWednesday campaign has been hugely successful in drawing attention to the human rights tragedy of Christian and other religious persecution. Now a global initiative, endorsed by the UK government, it is time to make #RedWednesday a campaign that can really change lives. Raped, forced to marry and convert, and now facing death threats, Christian girl Maira Shahbaz, 14, from Pakistan, urgently needs asylum. Maira and her family are in hiding from extremists who accuse her of apostasy and want her dead. We invite you to sign the ACN petition calling on Prime Minister Boris Johnson to grant UK asylum to Maira and her family> https://acnuk.org/our-campaigns/redwednesday/”

PARISH OF THE                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN  AND ALL SAINTS  

32^nd Sunday of the Year, A

8^th November 2020

MASSES

All Saints Church:

Monday-Friday:  9.30 a.m; (streamed)

Saturday:  4.30 p.m. Vigil Mass  (streamed)

Sunday:     10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. (both streamed)

Streamed masses are available on our YouTube channel,

Parish of the Most Blessed Trinity. Coatbridge

St. Stephen’s Church

Saturday:  5.30 p.m.     Vigil Mass

Sunday:     12.15 p.m.

BOOKING OF MASSES

There is a form on the Home Page of our website to book online for Mass.  Please complete and press send.

You will be advised whether your application has been granted.

THEME

First reading:  Wisdom 6: 12-16

The writer reflects on wisdom, personified as God’s agent in the world who shares intimately in God’s life and creative purpose.

Second Reading:  1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18

God promises us life everlasting as we share in the resurrection of Jesus.  We cannot be certain how this will be, but we can be sure that God’s promises are to be trusted.

Gospel:  Matthew 25: 1-13

The parable of the wise and foolish bridesmaids is principally about having hearts, minds and spirits open and alert to detect the presence of Jesus in our lives.

RIP

Jessica Henderson Monday 11 a.m. Funeral Mass

 Robert Farrell Tuesday 9 30 a.m.

NB   please note that there will be no public mass on Tuesday due to the Funeral Mass.

November is the Month of the Holy Souls when in charity we are called to remember the Faithful Departed in our prayers, especially at Holy Mass. Catholic tradition invites us to pray for and have mass offered for our Loved Ones who have gone before us to their eternal reward.

“It is therefore a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead that they may be loosed of their sins.”  Maccabees 12:42-46

NOVEMBER LISTS are available at the exit door.

One mass each day during November will be offered for all those

whose names are contained in the November Lists.  Any money

enclosed will be removed  before the lists  are placed on the altar.

Sacraments:

We warmly congratulate our First Communicants on making their first Holy Communion and we thank the staff of St Stephen’s & All Saints Primary Schools for the wonderful support and preparation they give to the children in their important journey of faith. Please continue to remember the children in your prayers this week as we have three First Communion Celebrations in St Stephen’s next week.

Confirmation: 

Our candidates for Confirmation earlier in the year were unable to receive the sacrament from the Bishop, given the restrictions of lockdown and the situation with the virus. He has asked that the parish undertake this now and has given permission to individual parish priests to confer the sacrament in his stead. The Secondary Schools have very kindly offered to help in the preparation of the S1 pupils who are candidates for Confirmation. We will shortly be working out dates for Confirmation and will keep parents/confirmandi up to date. Those children who should have received the sacrament in P6 will received the sacrament in the usual way from the bishop next year.

CATHOLIC EDUCATION WEEK

Catholic Education week begins on the 16^th November the Feast of

St Margaret of Scotland.

During November, a special collection will be taken up for Catholic Education Week.

VOCATIONS 

“The Bridegroom is here! Go out and meet him!” Don’t put off the moment to respond to God’s call to serve.

Speak to your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone (01698 423044) or email at frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

Christopher Morris, a Seminarian from our Diocese studying at Oscott, will receive the Ministry of Acolyte on Tuesday 24^th November.  Please keep Christopher in your prayers.

The Annual Mass Attendance Census takes place this weekend.

WORLD DAY OF THE POOR

On 15^th November 2020, we are all invited to celebrate the World Day of the Poor with Pope Francis.

The message this year is: “Stretch forth your hand to the poor” (Sir 7:32).” This is an appropriate call for all of us in a year when many of us have closed ourselves away from the world to protect ourselves from the coronavirus pandemic.

NOVEMBER –  MONTH OF REMEMBRANCE

November is the month when, by tradition, we pray for the eternal rest of our deceased relatives and friends.  This year, in all our churches, we remember especially those who have died during the pandemic.  We also pray for those who have lost someone they loved, for those who were unable to say goodbye, and for those who are suffering the pain of grief.  We pray for confidence in the loving mercy of God, for faith in the Resurrection to new life, and for the hope of being reunited in God’s kingdom.

TERESA OF AVILA:  A TEACHER & GUIDE

SPIRITUALITY SUMMIT

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF HER DOCTORATE

Monday 16th November 2020 14:00 to 18:30 UK time

AN ONLINE EVENT–

If you desire to nurture your spiritual life, and are interested in spirituality, the role and influence women can have in today’s culture and society, and are a lover of Carmel, you will not want to miss this International Spirituality Summit.

Plan to join us virtually for this important summit.

Keynote Speakers

* Cardinal Anders Arborelius OCD “To Live in God’s Presence” *

*Sr Jo Robson OCD “Teresa at Fifty: A Doctorate in the Ordinary”

Opening Remarks Rt Revd David Oakley (Bishop of Northampton)

Panel Discussion on St Teresa’s life and legacy chaired by

* Professor Peter Tyler of St Mary’s University, London,

 UK Panellists

* Fr Matt Blake OCD (London, UK)

* Dr Susan Muto (Pittsburgh, USA)

* Mark Courtney OCDS (London, UK)

* Annette Goulden OCDS (Oxford, UK)

For more information visit: https://www.oxcacs.org/

Email: ruth.preston@carmelite.org.uk Call: 07849 596572

PARISH OF THE                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN

AND ALL SAINTS  

Solemnity of All Saints, A

1st November 2020

MASSES

All Saints Church:

Monday-Friday:  9.30 a.m; (streamed)

Saturday:  4.30 p.m. Vigil Mass  (streamed)

Sunday:     10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. (both streamed)

Streamed masses are available on our YouTube channel,

Parish of the Most Blessed Trinity. Coatbridge

St. Stephen’s Church

Saturday:  5.30 p.m.     Vigil Mass

Sunday:     12.15 p.m.

BOOKING OF MASSES

There is a form on the Home Page of our website to book online for Mass.  Please complete and press send.

You will be advised whether your application has been granted.

THEME

First reading:  Apocalypse 7: 2-4. 9-14

The apostle John sees a vision of the life in heaven.

Second Reading: 1 John 3: 1-3

As children of God, we are promised that one day we will see God face to face.

Gospel:  Matthew 5: 1-12

The Beatitudes show the way to become holy.

Requiem Masses:

Please pray for the repose of the soul of John McCann

whose Requiem will take place on Monday at 11 a.m.

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Margaret Rose Boyle

whose Requiem will take place on Wednesday at 11 a.m

NOVEMBER LISTS are available at the exit door.

One mass each day during November will be offered for all those

whose names are contained in the November Lists.  Any money

enclosed will be removed  before the lists  are placed on the altar.

All Saints Day, the day on which Catholics celebrate all the saints, known and unknown, is a surprisingly old feast. It arose out of the Christian tradition of celebrating the martyrdom of saints on the anniversary of their martyrdom. When martyrdoms increased during the persecutions of the late Roman Empire, local dioceses instituted a common feast day in order to ensure that all martyrs, known and unknown, were properly honoured.

 The earliest certain observance of a feast in honour of all the saints is an early fourth-century commemoration of “all the martyrs.” In the early seventh century, after successive waves of invaders plundered the catacombs, Pope Boniface IV gathered up some 28 wagonloads of bones and reinterred them beneath the Pantheon, a Roman temple dedicated to all the gods. The pope rededicated the shrine as a Christian church. According to Venerable Bede, the pope intended “that the memory of all the saints might in the future be honoured in the place which had formerly been dedicated to the worship not of gods but of demons” (On the Calculation of Time). But the rededication of the Pantheon, like the earlier commemoration of all the martyrs, occurred in May. Many Eastern Churches still honour all the saints in the spring, either during the Easter season or immediately after Pentecost.

How the Western Church came to celebrate this feast, now recognized as a solemnity, in November is a puzzle to historians. The Anglo-Saxon theologian Alcuin observed the feast on November 1 in 800, as did his friend Arno, Bishop of Salzburg. Rome finally adopted that date in the ninth century.

The theological underpinning of the feast is the acknowledgment of human frailty. Since few people achieve perfection in this life but, rather, go to the grave still scarred with traces of sinfulness, some period of purification seems necessary before a soul comes face-to-face with God. The Council of Trent affirmed this purgatory state and insisted that the prayers of the living can speed the process of purification.

Celebration of First Holy Communion:

“Let the little children come to me. Do not stop them.” Those words of Christ our Lord remind us of how important it is to support the children in their journey faith. We have all felt the terrible effects of the pandemic on our lives, and the children of course have felt it too. After a long delay, we are truly delighted and give thanks to Almighty God that children may a last receive their First Holy Communion. Obviously it is not the celebration we would surly wish for them, in keeping with Government guidelines it will be different from previous years. But it will nonetheless be the most joyous and wonderful occasion for the children will for the very first time receive our Lord Holy Communion. Please keep the children in your prayers and we thank most sincerely the staff and Head Teachers of All Saints and St Stephen’s for their dedicated care of the children in their preparation for the sacraments.

Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed

The Church has encouraged prayer for the dead from the earliest times as an act of Christian charity. “If we had no care for the dead,” Augustine noted, “we would not be in the habit of praying for them.” Yet pre-Christian rites for the deceased retained such a strong hold on the superstitious imagination that a liturgical commemoration was not observed until the early Middle Ages, when monastic communities began to mark an annual day of prayer for the departed members.

In the middle of the 11th century, Saint Odilo, abbot of Cluny, France, decreed that all Cluniac monasteries offer special prayers and sing the Office for the Dead on November 2, the day after the feast of All Saints. The custom spread from Cluny and was finally adopted throughout the Roman Church.

The theological underpinning of the feast is the acknowledgment of human frailty. Since few people achieve perfection in this life but, rather, go to the grave still scarred with traces of sinfulness, some period of purification seems necessary before a soul comes face-to-face with God. The Council of Trent affirmed this purgatory state and insisted that the prayers of the living can speed the process of purification.

VOCATIONS  “I saw a huge number, impossible to count, of people from every nation, race, tribe and language.” The Church is of every age and every nation. Come, serve its many members! Callyour Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone (01698 423044) or email at frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

The Annual Mass Attendance Census takes place on 7th/8th November.

WORLD DAY OF THE POOR

On 15^th November 2020, we are all invited to celebrate the World Day of the Poor

with Pope Francis.

NOVEMBER –  MONTH OF REMEMBRANCE

November is the month when, by tradition, we pray for the eternal rest of our deceased relatives and friends.  This year, in all our churches, we remember especially those who have died during the pandemic.  We also pray for those who have lost someone they loved, for those who were unable to say goodbye, and for those who are suffering the pain of grief.  We pray for confidence in the loving mercy of God, for faith in the Resurrection to new life, and for the hope of being reunited in God’s kingdom.

PARISH OF THE                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN

AND ALL SAINTS  

30th Sunday of the Year, A

25th October 2020

MASSES

All Saints Church:

Monday-Friday:  9.30 a.m. All Saints Church

Saturday:  4.30 p.m. Vigil Mass

Sunday:     10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m.

St. Stephen’s Church

Saturday:  5.30 p.m.     Vigil Mass

Sunday:     12.15 p.m.

There is a form on the Home Page of our website to book online for Mass.  Please complete and press send.

You will be advised whether your application has been granted.

MASSES WILL BE STREAMED:

Monday to Friday at 9.30 a.m.  No Mass on Saturday, and at

4.30 p.m. on Saturday, 10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. on Sunday,

from All Saints Church, on our YouTube channel,

Parish of the Most Blessed Trinity.

THEME

First reading:  Exodus 22: 20-26

An instruction to look after strangers and avoid exploiting those who are poor

Second Reading: 1 Thessalonians : 1: 5-10

Paul praises the Thessalonians for their faith and love of God, and their good example for others.

Gospel:  Matthew 22: 34-40

Jesus teaches that we are called to love God and to love our neighbour

as ourselves.

FEAST DAYS

Wednesday 28^th October        St. Simon and St. Jude

+ + + + + +

Sunday 1^st November              Solemnity of All Saints

Monday 2^nd November           The Commemoration of the Faithful Departed.

Respond to Scottish Government consultation to stop home abortions!  See the Latest News Section of our website for further information.

MISSION SUNDAY 

Thank you very much for your donations to World Mission Sunday last week. Your prayers and contributions will help missionaries work alongside communities throughout the world that are poor or in need, regardless of their background or belief. Please pray for the work of Missio and all those working to offer the love of Jesus, that we may remain strong in our witness to Christ’s love for all peoples. To continue supporting mission throughout the year, please go to missio.org.uk or call 020 7821 9755 (office hours).

The sum of £1034 was collected.

Your generosity is much appreciated.

NOVEMBER LISTS are available at the exit door.

One mass each day during November will be offered for all those

whose names are contained in the November Lists.

Any money enclosed will be removed  before the lists are placed on the altar.

VOCATIONS

Today is Mission Sunday. Could you be called to be a missionary priest, at home or abroad, or to serve as a missionary religious ? Speak to your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone (01698 423044) or email at frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

THE BISHOPS CONFERENCE OF SCOTLAND: are revising “In God’s Image” the Safeguarding Policy Manual of the Catholic Church in Scotland and would welcome comments that will help them to improve their Safeguarding Practice.  Please provide your comments online by 30^th November 2020:

bit.ly/3cuTsnP.

FRATELLI TUTTI: An Encyclical by Pope  Francis on Fraternity and

Social Friendship is available on the Diocese of Motherwell website

www.rcdom.org.uk just click on the picture of Pope Francis near the bottom of the

home  page.

Rev. Thomas W. Doyle, 293 Muiryhall Street, Coatbridge, ML5 3RZ 

Tel: 01236 441110;    email: themostblessedtrinity@rcdom.org.uk      

 Twitter:  @blesstrinity;  Website:   www.themostblessedtrinity@rcdom.org.uk  

PARISH OF THE                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN

AND ALL SAINTS  

29th Sunday of the Year, A

18th October 2020

MASSES

All Saints Church:

Monday-Friday:  9.30 a.m. All Saints Church

Saturday:  4.30 p.m. Vigil Mass

Sunday:     10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m.

St. Stephen’s Church

Saturday:  5.30 p.m.     Vigil Mass

Sunday:     12.15 p.m.

There is a form on the Home Page of our website to book online for Mass.  Please complete and press send.

You will be advised whether your application has been granted.

MASSES WILL BE STREAMED:

Monday to Friday at 9.30 a.m.  No Mass on Saturday, and at

4.30 p.m. on Saturday, 10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. on Sunday,

from All Saints Church, on our YouTube channel,

Parish of the Most Blessed Trinity.

THEME

First reading:  Isaiah 45: 1. 4-6

God has called each of us by name.

Second Reading: 1 Thessalonians : 1-5

Paul tells his Thessalonian congregation that he prays constantly for them.

Gospel:  Matthew 22: 15-21

Jesus’ enemies tried to trap him with a question about whether or not to pay taxes.  Whichever answer he gave could catch hm and lead to his ultimate downfall.

FEAST DAYS

Thursday 22^nd                       St. John Paul II

Friday 23^rd                            St. John of Capistrano

Saturday 24^th                        St, Anthony Mary Claret

REMEMBER TO PUT CLOCKS BACK 1 HOUR NEXT WEEKEND

MISSION SUNDAY

World Mission Sunday supports missionaries who work alongside communities that are poor or in need, regardless of their background or belief. By supporting Missio, the Pope’s charity for world mission, you will help missionaries like Sr Nilcéia share the love of Christ with those most in need. Please pray for the mission of the Church throughout the world and give what you can to this very important collection which will sustain the future of our Church. Please call

020 7821 9755 (office hours) or visit Missio’s website to give a single gift, set up a Direct Debit and Gift Aid your donation, if possible: missio.org.uk

You can also text 70085 to donate £3.

Thank you

FRATELLI TUTTI: An Encyclical by Pope  Francis on Fraternity and Social Friendship is available on the Diocese of Motherwell website.

NOVENA TO OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL SUCCOUR will be said on Monday mornings before 9.30 a.m. Mass.

EXPOSITION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT:  There will be Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament each morning from 9.00 a.m. until just before Mass.

CONFESSIONS will be heard after the 9.30 a.m. Mass on Monday and thereafter on request.

CEMETERY SERVICES:  North Lanarkshire Council have advised that due to Coronavirus restrictions it will not be possible to hold Cemetery Services in November this year.

NOVEMBER LISTS are available at the exit door.      

One mass each day during November will be offered for all those

whose names are contained in the November Lists.

Any money enclosed will be removed  before the lists are placed on the altar.

VOCATIONS   

Today is Mission Sunday. Could you be called to be a missionary priest, at home or abroad, or to serve as a missionary religious ? Speak to your Diocesan Vocations Director, Father Charles O’Farrell,  either by phone (01698 423044) or email at frofarrell@rcdom.org.uk, see the Priests for Scotland website or Facebook page, or get in touch with VocationNetworkScotland for more information.

PARISH OF THE                                       

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN

AND ALL SAINTS  

27th Sunday of the Year, A

27^th September 2020

MASSES

All Saints Church:

Monday-Friday:  9.30 a.m. All Saints Church

Saturday:  4.30 p.m. Vigil Mass

Sunday:     10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m.

St. Stephen’s Church

Saturday:  5.30 p.m.     Vigil Mass

Sunday:     12.15 p.m.

There is a form on the Home Page of our website to book online for Mass.  Please complete and press send.

You will be advised whether your application has been granted.

MASSES WILL BE STREAMED:

Monday to Friday at 9.30 a.m.  No Mass on Saturday, and at

4.30 p.m. on Saturday, 10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. on Sunday,

from All Saints Church, on our YouTube channel,

Parish of the Most Blessed Trinity.

FEAST DAYS

Wednesday 7^th            Our Lady of the Rosary.

THEME

First reading:  Isaiah 5: 1-7

Israel is pictured as a well-tended vineyard that has only produced sour grapes.

Second Reading: Philippians 4: 6-9

Paul urges the community to fill their minds with all that is good

and true so that the peace of God may be with them.

Gospel:  Matthew 21: 33-43

Jesus uses the parable of the vineyard to warn the Jewish leaders of their failures in Leadership.

                                                      World Day of Prayer                                                                         

 for the Missions                           

       is on  Sunday 18^th October 2020.

SPECIAL COLLECTION IN OCTOBER

The special collection in October will be for Missio Scotland, through which we make our contribution to the Society for the Propagation of the Faith.

This year contributions can be made throughout the Month of October – directly to Missio Scotland, through the Diocese of Motherwell website, or by putting contributions in an envelope and placing them in the collection baskets in the parishes.

STELLA MARIS (formerly Apostleship of the Sea) ,

Centenary Mass,  4^th October 2020 at 3.00 p.m. will be streamed live at www.stellamaris.org.uk/centenarymass.

The Celebrant will be Archbishop Tartaglia of Glasgow.

Rev. Thomas Doyle, 293 Muiryhall Street, Coatbridge, ML5 3RZ

Tel: 01236 441110;    email: themostblessedtrinity@rcdom.org.uk

Twitter:  @blesstrinity;  Website:  ww.themostblessedtrinity@rcdom.org.uk

MOST  BLESSED TRINITY   

CHURCHES OF ST. STEPHEN

AND ALL SAINTS  

23^rd Sunday of the Year, A

6^th September 2020

MASSES

All Saints Church:

Monday-Friday:  9.30 a.m. All Saints Church

Saturday:  4.30 p.m. Vigil Mass

Sunday:     10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m.

St. Stephen’s Church

Saturday:  5.30 p.m.     Vigil Mass

Sunday:     12.15 p.m.

There is a form on the Home Page of our website to book online for Mass.  Please complete and press send.

You will be advised whether your application has been granted.

Masses will be streamed each weekday

Monday to Friday at 9.30 a.m.  No Mass on Saturday, and at

4.30 p.m. on Saturday, 10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. on Sunday,

from All Saints Church, on our YouTube channel,

Parish of the Most Blessed Trinity.