My brothers and sisters, like Elijah, in the first reading, who waits for the Lord on Mount Horeb, Jesus also seeks his ‘heart to heart’ with the Father, and then later, as he leaves that place of solitude and solace, he comes to the disciples who are caught up in a terrible storm on the lake. Both moments in the Gospel are an invitation for us to faith and trust. In the first place, to trust that God is present in the silence, when we seek his face in prayer, that is, when we commit, in spite of the myriad distractions and the excuses we can all so easily make, to put ourselves in that place and wait for the Lord. For some, this will seem as daunting as stepping out of the boat and walking on the windswept sea, as it pushes us beyond our comfort zone and really open our heart to God, and there to give him our worries and share with him our concerns, but fundamentally and quite simply to receive from him and rest in his love. It’s in moments such as these that we enter into authentic prayer, and deep connection with God.

In the second part of the Gospel, the plight of the disciples is a further invitation to trust that God is with us, even and most especially when we are no longer in control and can feel quite overwhelmed. It is then, like Peter, that we stretch out our hand, confident that God will lead us back to a place of safety and calm. The great lesson of today’s gospel is that even in the midst of the storm, however, he is with us and stands above those things that pull us down, as he repeats gently to each one of us: “Take heart.” For he is the one whom the winds and waves obey, and nothing, no situation is beyond his loving embrace. Let’s pray for one another and most especially for that brother or sister who is burdened by fear right now for them to rediscover courage and confidence in the presence of the Lord. God bless you all. Fr David +

During the month of August, the Holy Father asks us to pray that in large cities, often marked by anonymity and loneliness, we find new ways to proclaim the Gospel, discovering creative paths to build community.

Safeguarding at St Werburgh’s In consultation with the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer and Fr David, we have produced a Safeguarding Statement for St Werburgh's Parish. Our Parish is committed to promoting a safer environment and culture across all our activities. Supported by the Diocese and the Parish Priest, we will respond promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegation and will care pastorally for anyone affected. The full statement is available on the Parish Website. If you have any comments or wish to discuss, please contact Chris Proudfoot or Liz Aiello, our Parish Safeguarding Representatives (safeguarding@stwerburghchester.co.uk).

First Sacraments A reminder that parents of children living in the parish and not attending the parish primary school, should contact Fr David parishpriest@stwerburghchester.co.uk and Louise Robertshaw at robertshaw499@btinternet.com before 1^st September to add a child’s name to the list. On Monday 21^st September, at 6:30 p.m., there will be a general information evening for the parents and carers to meet with Fr David and the team for the presentation of the programme and what will be required for those families who intend for their child/children to enrol formally to prepare for and receive the Sacraments of penance and First Holy Communion. Attendance is essential.

Thank you to those who have already been in contact with Tom concerning music@stwerburghchester.co.uk. I am delighted to say that parishioner and Key-Stage One lead, Jake McCallum has agreed to support this initiative along with some of the children from St Werburgh’s and St Columba’s Primary School who will be singing along with the Music Group. It will be great to engage the children and their families in the celebration of the Sunday liturgy, and in particular at the monthly Family Mass, which will start on the 20^th of September.

Catholic holidays in the Lake District August/September. Castlerigg Manor in Keswick is opening its doors to families, groups of friends, or private individuals who are looking for an affordable stay in the Lake District. Breakfast and evening meal are provided, and Mass is celebrated on site. They are also offering a quiet retreat for adults during October half term. For more information: https://castleriggmanor.com/events / director@castleriggmanor.co.uk or 017687 72711

Marriage in a rut? Or need help with deeper issues? Retrouvaille has helped thousands of couples find hope and healing in their marriage. Next dates: 2^nd - 4^th October www.retrouvaille.org.uk/info Tel: 0788 7296983

Christleton Churches Together Tea and Cake Sundays. Every Sunday 2.30 pm - 4.30 pm until 30^th August. Christleton Methodist Church Schoolroom. Donations gratefully received for Hospice of the Good Shepherd.

25^th Silver Jubilee Anniversary of the ordination of Rev. Fr Martin Onuoha. Everyone is welcome to join Mass on Sunday 6^th September at 1 pm at Our Lady and the Apostles Church, Shaw Heath, Stockport, SK3 8BQ. There will be a reception buffet at the back of the church following the celebration. There is parking at the church for Religious and disabled. There are council car parks 5 to 10 minutes’ walk away.

Eucharistic Springtime. On Wednesday 16^th of September, from 7- 8:30 pm, Fr Sean Davidson will join us, here in church, and offer a catechesis as part of the ongoing formation for new Catholics. Those who currently serve as extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion, and those considering this service in the parish, are encouraged to attend, as Fr Sean will help us to focus on the mystery at the heart of our Catholic faith. More information nearer the time.

Heritage Open Days Mon 14^th to Friday 18^th September If anyone is willing to act as a steward, to enable us to keep the church open for visitors, please can you put your name and contact details opposite the date which you are volunteering on the sheet at the back of church, or email admin@stwerburghchester.co.uk We need two stewards for each day between 1 pm and 3 pm. A member of the parish History Group will act as one of the stewards.

Annual Benediction in honour of St Therese of Lisieux to be held at The Carmelite Monastery, 12 Grosvenor Place, Birkenhead, CH43 1UA on Sunday 27^th September at 3:00 pm. All are welcome. Please see https://carmelitesbirkenhead.org.uk

Ancient Byzantine Iconography course, 12^th to 18^th October 2026 A seven-day course writing an icon in the ancient Byzantine style, using the liquid egg tempera technique. The course leads the student through each step of writing an icon of their own, providing theological explanations and practical demonstrations. Our October course is for those with some experience: please register your interest for an opportunity to book onto the next novice course. https://christianheritagecentre.com/events/ancient-byzantine-iconography-course/

West Cheshire Foodbank would like to thank St Werburgh’s Church for their £40 cash donation; meanwhile, non-perishable food items are always gratefully received. Thank you to those who donate and those who collect and distribute.

Join the Catholic Medical Association – whether you are a doctor, nurse, student, or allied professional – if you are a Catholic in healthcare, you are welcome to join the Catholic Medical Association to grow in fellowship, prayer and formation together. For more information & upcoming events, visit https://catholicmedicalassociation.org.uk

Communication reminder some are still sending messages to the defunct werburgh465 email address. Please remember that we are no longer using this email, and it is checked very occasionally. To contact the parish priest parishpriest@stwerburghchester.co.uk For newsletter submissions, admin issues, and other enquiries please use admin@stwerburghchester.co.uk

Please take a copy of Day by Day for August and/or the Sacred Heart Messenger, please leave your contribution in the black box. 

Photo of the week: Thank you to Mike Hague for this photo showing a replica of St Olaf sculpture presented to the Church of St Mary on Holy Island (Lindisfarne) by Nidaros Cathedral, Norway, in memory of 8th-century Viking raids.