Welcome to Pope Leo XIV!

We were all delighted to see the election of Pope Leo XIV on Thursday evening, and assure him of our prayers, love and loyalty as he takes up this awesome task. Now we all have to remember to say “Leo our Pope” in the Eucharistic Prayer. I wonder how long it will take me?

 

150th Anniversary: Our History Group’s Contribution

Please see our VE Day Display in church, and our appeal for information about some of the parishioners named there. We have two big weeks coming up: Chester Heritage Festival (Sunday 1st June to Sunday 8th June) and Chester Open Doors in September. Please take a flyer from the back of church giving full details of the former: if you can help Steward at any time that week, or would like to come on either of the two Heritage Walks that week, please sign up on the lists at the back of church – numbers are limited both walks! 

 

New to our Parish?

Please leave your details on a form at the back of Church. We’d like to Welcome you and will be in touch. 

 

150th Anniversary Hospice Appeal: 29.23%

£204.25 has been donated this week and the first Lego models of the church ordered, bringing our total to date to £4,386.75 = 29.25% towards the total – thanks! We have three bookcases remaining: let FP know if you are interested. A donation to our Hospice fund secures.
https://www.justgiving.com/page/150-years-of-st-werburghs 

 

Parish Council Thursday this week

Excellent, lively meeting: minutes to follow!

 

Day of Formation in Liturgical Prayer & Sacred Music

Led by Fr Guy Nicholls, Director of the St John Henry Newman Institute of Liturgical Music. Saturday 28th June at St Joseph’s Eucharistic Shrine, Tatton Street, Stockport, SK1 1EJ. A practical day course on understanding the Liturgy and use of Sacred Music within Mass. Begins at 11.00 am and ends with a sung Mass at 5.00 pm. Cost £5 per person (suggested donation payable on the day). Bring a packed lunch. Tea/coffee and biscuits provided. To book or for more information, please email stockportshrine@gmail.com

 

Two Wonderful Theatre Trips Coming Up!

Romeo & Juliet at Hillbark, Tuesday 24th June at 7.30 pm. Venue - Royden Park, Frankby, Wirral. Tickets £16.50. Minibus from Chester (tba). Please sign up at the back of Church - deadline Monday 19th May.
Cabaret at the Playhouse Theatre London’s West End. We’ve secured some bargain tickets at only £65 each for this award-winning musical on Wednesday 13th August. I’ve seen it twice myself and it’s sensational. Train to London. Watch this space for more details.

 

Splice the Mainbrace, Welcome Wednesdayers!

We’re looking forward this week to a presentation from our own Geoff Taylor, telling us about the story of his Boatbuilding Family - “Taylor’s Boatyard”. All Are Welcome in the Day Chapel for coffee/tea at 10.00 am, and then Geoff’s Talk beginning at 10.45 am.

Cake Sale for Hospice & Scouting Overseas 

£134.50 = £67.25 for each charity. Thanks, everyone!

 

Bereavement Group Meeting

Come for a coffee and chat on Wednesday 14th May, 1.15 - 2.45 pm. In the Day Chapel. All welcome.

 

Young Adults Gathering: Good Vibes, Great Company

Nithin writes: “Last Friday night, the Day Chapel came alive as our young adults gathered for an evening full of laughs, conversation, prayer and connection. With a great turnout and even better energy, it was clear from the start that this was going to be a special one! The evening kicked off with warm hellos and easy chatter before we took a short moment of prayer and some meaningful Bible reading. It was a lovely pause, that reminded us why we gather - not just for the fun, but also to grow together in faith. We wrapped things up in true parish style—with plenty of snacks, a little wine, and a lot of good cheer. The fellowship flowed as easily as the conversation. A big thank you to everyone who came along and made the evening so memorable. Can’t wait to do it all again soon next first Friday, June 6th.” He was spot on, folks!

 

Christleton Churches Together AGM & Summer Teas

Our popular Sunday Teas run from the beginning of June till the end of September. We hope that some people might feel able to make a cake or offer to help out at one of the Sunday afternoons. Offers of help to  Sheila (01244 335764) or Anne (01244 313409). This year we are raising funds for Medecins San Frontieres (Doctors without Borders). You’re most welcome at our AGM on May 21st, 7.00 pm at Christleton Parish Hall, when MSF will be giving a presentation. 

 

Talk by Michael Merrick on Young Catholics Today

Catholic commentator and teacher Michael Merrick will come here on Thursday, June 5th to give a talk on young people and the Church: the pressures they face today, and the support that Church and Parish Communities might offer. Talk starts at 7.30 pm. Free and open to all. Michael is a Catholic parent himself and director of Education for Diocese of Lancaster.

 

Chester Photo Festival: Making Voices Heard

9th-22nd May: entries from all over the world and many people will be coming to see their exhibits here.

 

SVP Spring Mass - Sunday 11th May at 2.30 pm

All warmly invited and you’re most welcome to stay on for a tea party in the back of the church afterwards. If you need transport, please ring Fran (07990-524-780).

 

Safeguarding Training for All Volunteer Parishioners

Our Parish Safeguarding Representatives will be holding Safeguarding Training Sessions on Tuesday 13th May at 7.00 pm and Thursday 15th May at 2.00 pm. If you work in the parish as a volunteer with children or vulnerable adults, we would like you to attend. 

 

SVP Second Collection 17/18 May

In support of the SVP activities in the Parish and in the wider area of Chester. The SVP Holiday Home at Talacre is available for thirty weeks a year and allows a family to have a holiday who otherwise couldn’t.

Easter Liturgy Review Thursday 22nd May 7.30 pm.

Everyone warmly welcome. If you can't attend but have feedback on Holy Week and Easter, please email liturgy@stwerburghchester.co.uk  or leave a message in the box at the back of Church. 

Photo of the Week: The Glories of Bodnant Garden

Snapped this time last year by Chris P – thanks, Chris! Lovely Parish Day Out. Any suggestions for more such?