Father David writes…  

The time has come to “in-vest!” Our parish needs new vestments. I brought some with me, one from my priestly ordination, or those given to me on other occasions, but we certainly need more. I will be seeking to purchase these over the next few weeks. The celebration of the Mass is the beating heart of any parish community, the source and summit of all that we are and do, so we need to make our very best effort to honour our Lord as befits his glory. St Werburgh’s also has some very fine vestments, from the beginning of the last century, we will look to restore these and make sure they are put to good use. 

 

St John Henry Newman declared Doctor of the Church 

Praise to the Holiest in the height, and in the depth be praise! We share the joy of the Universal Church at the decision of our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, to declare our very own English Saint a Doctor of the Church, thereby underling the breadth and beauty of his teaching. This Sunday we have a pastoral Letter from Bishop Mark Davies on Newman. 

 

Eternal Rest grant unto them, O Lord

Please feel free to send in any names you would like included in this year’s November list, using either one of the envelopes at the back of church or by writing to admin@stwerburghchester.co.uk. As mentioned, Mass will be offered once a week for our dearly departed and in particular for those whose names are written in the book which will be open in the sanctuary throughout the month of the holy souls. May the rest in peace. 

 

Music for Remembrance and Reflection

7.45 pm., Tuesday, 11th November St Werburgh’s Church with Chester Cathedral Nave Choir. Free entry with a retiring collection for the choir and the Hospice of the Good Shepherd.

 

Mass for the recently bereaved

Father David will offer Mass on Wednesday, November 12 at 7 pm. This Mass has been celebrated traditionally for those who have died in the past few years and for their loved ones mourn their passing. All parishioners, however, are very warmly invited to come along and remember their loved ones who have gone to the Lord. 

 

Christmas music

Talented parishioner Philip Chidell is organizing an orchestral concert on December 4, at 2:30 pm and 7:30 pm. Tickets are selling fast! Please see www.PhilipChidell.com   or noticeboard for further information. 

 

Date for your diary

On Friday, December 12, at 7 p.m., Bishop Davies will celebrate Mass at St Werburgh’s, during which he will receive Monsignor David’s Profession of Faith and Oath of Fidelity, as he is formally inducted as your new parish priest. It will be great to have you with us on that evening. More details to follow… 

 

Foundation Governors Wanted for the Catholic High

You do not have to be a parent of a child in the school, but you must be a practising Catholic. For further information or for a visit: www.educationshrewsbury.org/governance 

 

St Werburgh’s Young Adults Prayer Group

You’re Invited: We’re excited to welcome you back for our next meet-up on Friday, 7th November, from 6:30 pm onwards at St Werburgh’s Church Day Chapel. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or a couple starting out, this is a space for anyone aged 18+ to feel welcome. 

 

Keyholders: Important Notice!

If you have not yet notified the Parish Office that you are in possession of a key to the Presbytery/Garage, please do so as soon as possible. Please send in the information by email to admin@stwerburghchester.co.uk 

 

Sycamore Course

The final 2 sessions will be Wed. 12th & 19th Nov. at 7.30 pm ("The Bible" & "The Gift of Faith")

 

Welcome Wednesdays

A busy WW and our thanks to Bernice Meridith who opened the Repository especially for us for the sale of the Hospice Christmas cards etc. Our appreciation and thanks also go to Shirley Hughes and Mave Newbrook for their challenging and enjoyable Quiz. We are already looking forward to the Christmas Quiz! Guest Appearance - This coming Wednesday at 11 am we welcome Fr David to the "Hot Seat”. He has kindly agreed to answer questions put first of all by Pat and Lyn and then later open to the audience. All are Welcome!

 

Bereavement and Loss Group

Will meet on Wednesday 12th November in the Day Chapel from 1.15 pm to 2.45 pm.  All are very welcome for a cuppa and a chat.

 

First Holy Communion

Meeting for Parents of those in this year’s program on Monday 10th November at 7:00 pm. The meeting will take place at St Werburgh's and St Columba's Catholic Primary School, Lightfoot St., Hoole, CH2 3AD. It is important that each family is represented, and we look forward to seeing you all there.

 

The Posada journey

An ancient Mexican tradition originally made by people. Our Parish Posada journey is made with a 7" model of our Lady, St Joseph and the donkey welcomed into the home of parishioners for each day of Advent. This year, journey starts on Advent Sunday, November 30, when Fr David will invite the first family to receive the figures into their home by handing these to them at the end of Mass. The Holy Family stays overnight and is then brought by the host family to the next person on the rota. There will be a leaflet available with instructions and suggestions for prayers for each host family to use. Please add your name to the rota at the back of the church and give your home location and contact telephone number. The arrangements for transfer are made between host families. The rota needs to be filled by the end of November. Questions and info, please contact Elizabeth Hoey 07884581897

 

Holy Father’s prayer intention for the month of November

For the prevention of suicide:  that those who are struggling with suicidal thoughts might find the support, care, and love they need in their community, and be open to the beauty of life.

 

Photo of the week

Thank you to Francis Coxhead for sending in this photo of a Statue of St Anne with the child Mary. This is in the Church of St Denis, Amboise, France.