Parish newsletter

Posted on 21 January 2023 by admin

Download newsletter – 22 January 2023

3rd Sunday of the Year

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

“Unity amid injustice,” is the theme of the week of prayer.

In the book of Genesis, we are told that we are made in the image of God. People of all ethnicities, cultures, languages and religions, together represent the image of the Creator. To deny that image in any one race, in any one person, is to reject God’s presence in the whole of humanity.

As society becomes more indifferent to the needs of others we, as Christian people, must learn to take up the cause of our oppressed brothers and sisters so that they may live in peace with justice. In doing this we will be recognising God’s image in everyone.

We give them names: refugees, asylum seekers, migrants, economic migrants, some more welcome than others, but they are all divinely human. Our commitment to eradicate and to be healed of the sin of racism will be a sign of unity for the whole world.

You may like to make this prayer your own:-

“You made us, God, in your own image, and then became one of us, proud of those you have made. Make us proud of being part of that worldwide family, and eager to discover and celebrate your image in every person, every culture, every nation that we are privileged to encounter.”

All are welcome

Everyone is welcome to join us for the celebration of Mass in St. Patrick’s and St. Alban’s churches. It is a joy to welcome people of other faiths or none who come to join us in worship. Currently, only baptised Catholic people are able to receive Holy Communion and we ask that when you approach the altar you extend your hands towards the minister who will place the sacred host in your hand which you should then consume immediately before returning to your place. If you are not a Catholic or are indisposed to receive Holy Communion, you are invited to come forward at the appropriate time and receive a blessing, indicating your desire by folding an arm across your chest.

Are you feeling unwell – remember the old slogan “Coughs and sneezes spread diseases”

If you are feeling unwell or have any cold, flu or Covid symptoms, particularly a persistent cough, you should consider staying at home rather than coming to church for your own well-being and for that of others.

Could Friday, 17th February be a turning point in your life?

We invite you to a Social Evening for parishioners and friends of both of our parishes on Friday, 17th February, 2023 in St. Patrick’s parish centre from 7pm.

It provides an opportunity to come together after all we have gone through during the past three years, and continue to go through, in a warm and friendly setting.
Could you invite someone who may still be struggling with the after effects of lockdown to come along with you?
Could you offer to give someone a lift?

It is, of course, a choice for you to make! Please bring your own drinks and nibbles.

Admission is free, but if you feel able, you may like to support the Diocesan Justice and Peace Refugee Project by bringing along a food donation of either sugar, biscuits, tinned fish in oil, a tin of tomatoes or chick peas.

Mass Intentions

Fr. Patterson will celebrate Mass for the following Intentions during the coming week. With the exception of Wednesday and Friday, all Masses and Services are open to everyone.

Monday: No Mass
Tuesday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Norah, Albert and Brenda Lagan
Wednesday: (Private Mass) Pat Donald
Thursday: No Mass
Friday: (Private Mass) Private Intention
Saturday: 6pm in St. Alban’s Church: For the Intentions of all our parishioners
Sunday: 10am in St. Patrick’s Church: Patsy Rafferty

Please note there is no Mass on Thursday as Fr. Patterson is attending a meeting of the Diocesan Consultors.

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from our Cathedral on a Sunday. Visit the Cathedral website.

Alternatively, you may like to follow Mass from the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Please keep in your prayers:

all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital.
all those near and dear to us whose memories we cherish at this time especially Patsy Rafferty and,
Rita Short who has died. May she rest in the peace of Christ.

A Prayer for those who are ill and for those who care for them

Merciful God, we entrust to your loving care those who are ill or in pain. Comfort and heal them, and restore them to full health and strength. Grant perseverance and resilience to all who are caring for the sick, empower them with your Spirit, so that through their care many will be restored to health; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

A Prayer for Ukraine

Loving God, we pray for the people of Ukraine, for all those suffering or afraid, that you will be close to them and protect them. We pray for world leaders, for compassion, strength and wisdom to guide their choices. We pray for the world that in this time of crisis, we may reach out in solidarity to our brothers and sisters in need. May we walk in your ways so that peace and justice become a reality for the people of Ukraine and for the whole world. Amen

Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons

Each week Bishop Barron offers a Sunday sermon.

Weekly Offering Envelopes – Gift Aid Contributors

We will soon be ordering boxes of envelopes for the new year, beginning 1st April, 2023. These envelopes are becoming very expensive, so we would urge you to consider making your offering by Standing Order. This not only reduces the cost on the parish and is more environmentally friendly, but also eases the burden on our limited teams of counters who count the collections.

The details you require to set up a Standing Order are set out below:-

St Alban’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 92010984

St Patrick’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Felling St Patrick, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 52010453

If you would prefer to continue to receive a box of envelopes for your Gift Aided contributions please place a note to that effect with your name and address in the collecting boxes at the front and back of our churches this weekend, or email the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk by this Sunday evening.

Can you play a musical instrument?

If you would like to join St. Patrick’s musicians and help with the music at Sunday Mass, please speak to Jessica or Dylan who you will find at the front of the church after Mass.

News from our School

Our spring term has begun in earnest and we are very pleased to welcome all our new children as they start our nursery class. We hope they settle in well, making lots of friends, as they join our school community.

The Friends of St Alban’s (PTA group) meet on Thursday 26^th January at 9.00 in school to plan events and fundraising for this term. All parents and carers are invited to attend.

Our Little Saints Toddler Group has re-started in school and runs each Thursday from 9.30 – 11.30. Entry is through the gates on Queen Victoria Street. Families with pre-school age children are very welcome.

Parking in our church car parks

Please be aware that the Trustees of the Diocese cannot accept responsibility for injury, loss or damage to third party property, vehicles and their contents whilst left in the church car parks.

A stay in Hospital

If you or any members of your family are going into hospital and would like to see the Catholic Chaplain, please ask a member of the ward staff to contact the Catholic Chaplain. Alternatively you can contact the Chaplaincy Department Office directly. For the Queen Elizabeth Hospital telephone 0191 445 2072 (Catholic Chaplain: Rev Paul Nichol). For the RVI and Freeman Hospitals in Newcastle telephone 0191 282 9322 (Catholic Chaplain: Rev Paddy Jackson).

In an emergency, please ask the ward sister to contact the on call Catholic chaplain. Please do not contact your own parish priest who may be unable to respond due to current hospital protocols.

Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes, 2023

The Pilgrimage to Lourdes plans to travel on Friday, 28th July, returning Friday, 4th August, 2023. If you would like more information please visit www.hexhamandnewcastlelourdespilgrimage.co.uk/ or email lourdes@rcdhn.org.uk.

The Diocesan Justice and Peace Refugee Project – An appeal for coats

As well as the ongoing need for donations of sugar, biscuits, tinned fish in oil, tins of tomatoes, chick peas, toiletries and shampoo, the project would be grateful for any unwanted coats— but please no jumble!

Items may be left on the table to your right as you enter the front of St. Patrick’s Church or on any table if you enter by the rear door. A basket is also available in the porch of St. Alban’s Church and in our school.

Vocations to the Priesthood Enquiry Evenings

The Priesthood Vocations Team invite men aged 18+ who might be experiencing the call from God to discern priesthood to join the Vocations Team in finding out more. Discernment Evenings for 2023 are planned for: Tuesday 14th February, Tuesday 4th April, Tuesday 27th June, Tuesday 3rd October and Tuesday 5th December. These will be held at the Cloister Café – St Mary’s Cathedral, Clayton Street West, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 5HH from 6-8pm. There will be a time of Prayer, talk/discussion, followed by a meal together. If you would like to attend, or for more information, please contact the Vocations Promoter, Fr Shaun Purdy by email at: vocationspromoter@diocesehn.org.uk or by phone: 01670 812 200.

Download newsletter – 22 January 2023

Parish newsletter

Posted on 14 January 2023 by admin

Download newsletter – 15 January 2023

2^nd Sunday of the Year

Peace Sunday

Archbishop Malcolm McMahon, the Apostolic Administrator of our Diocese, offers the following reflection for Peace Sunday:-

“2022 has been a year of war and rumours of war. Lives lost, people displaced, fear and suspicion overwhelming many communities around the world. These wars are also contributing to the destruction of our environment. Sometimes it feels as though we have moved backwards in our efforts to bring peace and justice to the world.

However, the constant, faithful voice of Pope Francis urges us to keep going. Whether he is speaking about Ukraine and Russia, Yemen or the Middle East, his message is always the same: No to war and no to the trade in weapons that fuel war. His Angelus message on the Feast of All Saints last year, offers these questions: ‘Brothers and sisters, let us look within and ask ourselves: are we peacemakers? In the places where we live, study and work, do we bring tension, words that hurt, chatter that poisons, controversy that divides? Or do we open up the way to peace?’”

Are you feeling unwell – remember the old slogan “Coughs and sneezes spread diseases”

All are welcome

Everyone is welcome to join us for the celebration of Mass in St. Patrick’s and St. Alban’s churches. In recent times, it has been a joy to welcome people of other faiths or none who have come to join us in worship. Currently, only baptised Catholic people are able to receive Holy Communion and we ask that when you approach the altar you extend your hands towards the minister who will place the sacred host in your hand which you should then consume immediately before returning to your place. If you are not a Catholic or are indisposed to receive Holy Communion, you are invited to come forward at the appropriate time and receive a blessing, indicating your desire by folding an arm across your chest.

Mass Intentions

Fr. Patterson will celebrate Mass for the following Intentions during the coming week. With the exception of Wednesday and Friday, all Masses and Services are open to everyone.

Monday: No Mass
Tuesday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Special Intention (GMcG)
Wednesday: (Private Mass) In Thanksgiving (GL)
Thursday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Bishop Hugh Lindsay
Friday: (Private Mass) Private Intention
Saturday: 6pm in St. Alban’s Church: For the Intentions of all our parishioners
Sunday: 10am in St. Patrick’s Church: Zofia Krawczyk-Pastuszka

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from our Cathedral on a Sunday. Visit the Cathedral website.

Alternatively, you may like to follow Mass from the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Please keep in your prayers:

all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital.
all those near and dear to us whose memories we cherish at this time especially Bishop Lindsay and Patsy Rafferty and,
Mary Forster who has died. May she rest in the peace of Christ.

A Prayer for those who are ill and for those who care for them

Thanks

Fr. Patterson is grateful for two donations amounting to £45.00 received this week towards the cost of heating St. Patrick’s Church. and wishes to renew his thanks for your generous financial support in what are challenging economic times for us all.

Pope Benedict

The Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales have produced a prayer card in memory of Pope Benedict. The arrival of the cards has been delayed, but they are now available for you to collect from the front of St. Patrick’s Church and the rear of St. Alban’s Church

Parish Boundaries

Following recommendations from the Diocesan Boundaries Commission and consultation with parishes, partnerships, schools and the Council of Priests, the boundaries of each parish within the diocese have been reviewed and where necessary revised. A map showing the boundaries of our parishes is displayed on the noticeboards and can be viewed on the Diocese website.

In addition to the various canonical and pastoral reasons for having clear boundaries for each parish, the maps will assist our Diocesan schools with the implementation of their admission policies.

Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons

Each week Bishop Barron offers a Sunday sermon.

Weekly Offering Envelopes – Gift Aid Contributors

The details you require to set up a Standing Order:

St Alban’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 92010984

St Patrick’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Felling St Patrick, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 52010453

If you would prefer to continue to receive a box of envelopes for your Gift Aided contributions please place a note to that effect with your name and address in the collecting boxes at the front and back of our churches by next weekend, or email the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk as soon as possible.

St. Alban’s Church – plumbing issues

The plumbing issues were repaired during the course of the week. Toilet facilities are once again available in St. Alban’s Church.

Download newsletter – 15 January 2023

Parish newsletter

Posted on 7 January 2023 by Parish admin

Download newsletter – 8 January 2022

The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord

The Feast of the Baptism of Jesus celebrated in our churches this weekend, reveals his exalted identity as the “Son of God” and was the starting point for all that Jesus would undertake – his self-giving ministry, death and Resurrection.

As the Christmas season in the life of the Church draws to a close, we move into what is called “Ordinary Time”, the time when we are asked to put into practice what we have celebrated at Christmas.

On the day of our own baptism, God named us as his beloved sons and daughters. Like Jesus, all that we undertake must flow from who we are – God’s children.

This means that we, too, must humbly submit ourselves to God’s wise and loving plan for our lives and there is nothing “ordinary” about that.

So let us ask the Lord today to make us faithful to our own baptismal promises. Let us thank him for the privilege of being joined to his mission of preaching the “Good News” by our transparent Christian lives of love, mercy, service and forgiveness.

Are you feeling unwell – remember the old slogan “Coughs and sneezes spread diseases”

Mass Intentions

Fr. Patterson will celebrate Mass for the following Intentions during the coming week. With the exception of Wednesday and Friday, all Masses and Services are open to everyone.

Monday: No Mass
Tuesday: 10am in St. Patrick’s Church: Funeral Service for Mary Forster
Wednesday: (Private Mass) Evelyn May and George Craig
Thursday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Annie Donald
Friday: (Private Mass) Private Intention
Saturday: 6pm in St. Alban’s Church: For the Intentions of all our parishioners
Sunday: 10am in St. Patrick’s Church: Paul Hughes

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from our Cathedral on a Sunday. Visit the Cathedral website.

Alternatively, you may like to follow Mass from the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Please keep in your prayers:

all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital.
all those near and dear to us whose memories we cherish at this time especially Annie Donald and,
Mary Forster who has died. May she rest in the peace of Christ.

A Prayer for those who are ill and for those who care for them

Pope Benedict XVI

A Mass for the repose of the soul of the late Pope Benedict XVI will be celebrated in St Mary’s Cathedral on Monday, 9th January at 12.05pm. Bishop Séamus will preside at this Mass and all are welcome to attend. The Mass will be live-streamed to the Cathedral YouTube page.

Parish Boundaries

In addition to the various canonical and pastoral reasons for having clear boundaries for each parish, the maps will assist our Diocesan schools with the implementation of their admission policies.

Thanks

Fr. Patterson is grateful for a donation of £30.00 towards the cost of heating St. Patrick’s Church. He is aware that many of you are carefully monitoring your own heating costs at present. You may be interested to learn that the cost of heating St. Patrick’s Church, parish centre and presbytery for the month of December was £2,723.86.

The Diocesan Justice and Peace Refugee Project

The following letter has been received from the organisers of the above project:-

“We would like to thank all our parish, group and individual donors for the amazing support you have shown the project during 2022. Thanks to your generosity, we have been able to support over 1000 people over the year with basic food and toiletry bags. Each month over 400 people who are seeking asylum in our area benefit from the project. In addition to that, we are able to provide supermarket vouchers to those who receive no government support. Thank you for your continued support and for being willing to welcome the stranger in our midst.”

Should you wish to support this project, donations of sugar, biscuits, tinned fish in oil, tins of tomatoes, chick peas, toiletries and shampoo may be left on the table to your right as you enter the front of St. Patrick’s Church or on any table if you enter by the rear door. A basket is also available in the porch of St. Alban’s Church and in our school.

St. Alban’s Church

Due to plumbing issues, there are no toilet facilities available in St. Alban’s Church for the foreseeable future.

Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons for Advent

Each week Bishop Barron offers a Sunday sermon.

Download newsletter – 8 January 2022

Parish newsletter

Posted on 31 December 2022 by admin

Download newsletter – 1 January 2023

The Feast of Mary the Mother of God

The readings read in our churches this weekend place us within the family relationship of God, who is Father, Son and Spirit.

In the first reading (Number 6:22-27), the Lord reminds his people that they are God’s children and offers them a blessing of peace and a promise of God’s graciousness. St Paul in the second reading (Galatians 4:4-7), reminds us that we have been adopted as children of God. We are no longer slaves, but sons and daughters of God. In the Gospel (Luke 2: 16-21), we are given a glimpse into a moment where Mary herself takes in the wonder of Jesus’ birth and ponders the unique experience of being mother to the Son of God.

We too are blessed by God our Father, who calls us his adopted children and who loves us with that same love which he has for his own Son. Indeed, the Lord loves us so much that he has become human like us. In Jesus, God feels our sorrow, our joy and our fears, and understands our dreams.

We are made in God’s image and likeness. As such each person we encounter on our journey through life is an “image of God”. There will be people, like the shepherds, who are poor in mind, body or resources. There will be those, like the magi, who are rich in mind and spirit as well as in material resources. We are called to do as Mary did and to welcome each one as if they were Christ himself.

As the New Year begins may we ponder Christ’s love in the silence of our hearts and find the face of Christ in all those we meet.

Thanks

Fr. Patterson thanks all those who helped to make Christmas a most prayerful and uplifting celebration in both of our churches and takes this opportunity to wish you all a Happy New Year

He also wishes to thank parishioners for further donations received; £100.00 towards the cost of heating St. Patrick’s Church; a donation of £50.00 for St. Patrick’s parish funds.

Thanks to everyone for their ongoing generosity in these challenging economic times.

Are you feeling unwell – remember the old slogan “Coughs and sneezes spread diseases”

If you are feeling unwell or have any cold, flu or Covid symptons, particularly a persistent cough, you should consider staying at home rather than coming to church for your own well-being and for that of others.

Mass Intentions

Fr. Patterson will celebrate Mass for the following Intentions during the coming week. With the exception of Wednesday and Thursday all Masses are open to everyone.

Monday: No Mass
Tuesday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre – Ruth Wolf
Wednesday – (Private Mass) Brian Quigley
Thursday – (Private Mass) Private Intention
Friday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre – For the Intentions of all our parishioners
Saturday: 6pm in St. Alban’s Church – Peter Sloan
Sunday: 10am in St. Patrick’s Church – For the Intentions of all our parishioners

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from our Cathedral on a Sunday. Visit the Cathedral website.

Alternatively, you may like to follow Mass from the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Please keep in your prayers:

all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital.
all those near and dear to us whose memories we cherish at this time especially Allan Lavin and Ruth Wolf and,
Mary Forster who has died. May she rest in the peace of Christ.

Feast of the Epiphany

Friday is the Feast of the Epiphany, a day when the Church encourages us to come together for the celebration of Mass. Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 10am. Entry is through the parish centre doors only.

A Prayer for those who are ill and for those who care for them

A Prayer for Ukraine

Loving God, we pray for the people of Ukraine, for all those suffering or afraid, that you will be close to them and protect them. We pray for world leaders, for compassion, strength and wisdom to guide their choices. We pray for the world that in this moment of crisis, we may reach out in solidarity to our brothers and sisters in need. May we walk in your ways so that peace and justice become a reality for the people of Ukraine and for the whole world. Amen

Please consider helping our “Counters” We have a limited number of volunteers who have offered to assist with the counting and banking of the collections taken in both of our churches. You could help to reduce their workload by making your offering by Standing Order. Please consider doing so.

St Alban’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 92010984

St Patrick’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Felling St Patrick, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 52010453

St. Alban’s Church

Due to plumbing issues, there are no toilet facilities available in St. Alban’s Church for the foreseeable future.

Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons for Advent

Each week Bishop Barron offers a Sunday sermon.

Download newsletter – 1 January 2023

Parish newsletter

Posted on 24 December 2022 by admin

Download newsletter – 25 December 2022

The Feast of Christmas

Christmas is a living reality, not just a happy memory. It is a time when we celebrate the Hope, Joy, Peace and Love of the birth of Christ and pray that it will spread through our lives and the lives of all of humanity.

However, Christmas is not a fairy tale and it certainly doesn’t have a fairy tale ending. The fact is that Christ was born into a world torn by political turmoil, oppression and cruelty. However much he was surrounded by love, peace and goodwill at his birth it wasn’t long before the fear of a ruler, losing his power, drove the Holy Family to flee to a far country.

The drawing above, by a parishioner, reflects the fact that the same injustice and cruelty is still common place. The modern refugees follow in the footsteps of Mary and Joseph and the hundreds of thousands that have tread the ‘Long Road to Exile!’

Paradoxes abound in the Christmas story too.

Consider, for example, how remarkable it is that “The Light of the World” is born in the darkness of December; how striking it is that the “Eternal Word,” through whom all things were made, comes into the world as a speechless baby; how bizarre it is that “The Bread of Life,” who will give his flesh as true food for eternal life, is laid to rest in a manger, a feeding trough for livestock. And think how “The Lord of the Universe” was born in the humblest and poorest circumstances: not in a palace but in a stable, not in Jerusalem but the humble town of Bethlehem six miles to the South.

Christmas paradoxes such as these not only confound expectations but can leave us rather beguiled. We have to prayerfully contemplate such paradoxes, to marvel on their wonder and enchantment, to enter into the mystery of God’s Son made man for us. (Fr. Sam Burke OP adapted)

Let us strive to do what we can this Christmas to make the Hope, Joy, Peace and Love Jesus brings a living reality to the people we meet. May we be his light in the darkness leading others to discover the new born King living in our midst today.

Fr. Patterson wishes you and your families a peaceful and blessed Christmas

Christmas Mass Times

Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church on Christmas Eve at 5.30pm with carols

This will be followed by mulled wine, soft drinks and mince pies in the parish centre.

Mass on Christmas morning will be celebrated in St. Alban’s Church at 9.30am.

Mass Intentions

Fr. Patterson will celebrate Mass for the following Intentions during the coming week. With the exception of Wednesday and Friday all Masses are open to everyone.

Monday: No Mass
Tuesday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Gerry Toberty and the Toberty Sisters
Wednesday: (Private Mass) Vera Isaac
Thursday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Nellie Armstrong
Friday: (Private Mass) Private Intention
Saturday: 6pm in St. Alban’s Church: For the Intentions of all our parishioners
Sunday: 10am in St. Patrick’s Church: Allan Lavin

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from our Cathedral on a Sunday. Visit the Cathedral website.

Alternatively, you may like to follow Mass from the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Please keep in your prayers:

all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital.
all those near and dear to us whose memories we cherish at this time especially Nellie Armstrong, Allan Lavin and Gerry Toberty
and Maureen Dodds who has died. May she rest in the peace of Christ.

A Prayer for those who are ill and for those who care for them

A Prayer for Ukraine

Loving God, we pray for the people of Ukraine, for all those suffering or afraid, that you will be close to them and protect them. We pray for world leaders, for compassion, strength and wisdom to guide their choices. We pray for the world that in this moment of crisis, we may reach out in solidarity to our brothers and sisters in need. May we walk in your ways so that peace and justice become a reality for the people of Ukraine and for the whole world. Amen

Christmas Thanks

Fr. Patterson wishes to thank those parishioners who offered to prepare our churches for the Feast of Christmas. He is also most grateful for your prayers, support, cards, gifts and kind wishes.

A particular word of thanks for a gift aided donation to the value of £375.00, given to St. Patrick’s towards the cost of the heating of the Church for our Christmas Eve Mass.

Fr. Patterson also wishes to renew his thanks to Mary Laurie and the members of the Women’s’ Guild for their most generous donation of £1,100.00 to St. Patrick’s parish funds. As many of you will be aware, the ageing process and health issues have meant that the membership of the Guild has declined considerably and after discussion with Mary, Fr. Patterson has agreed that the Women’s Guild will be disbanded. The Guild and its members have, over the years, contributed so generously to the parish both socially and financially and Fr. Patterson acknowledges his gratitude for all they have contributed to the parish and local community.

Fr. Patterson is grateful to those who helped to establish our Advent Café and to those who contributed to the spiritual and social dimension of the Café clients. It is hoped to be able to develop this group in the New Year.

Are you feeling unwell?

If you are feeling unwell or have any cold, flu or Covid symptons, particularly a persistent cough, you should consider staying at home rather than coming to church for the well-being of everyone.

Download newsletter – 25 December 2002

Parish newsletter

Posted on 17 December 2022 by admin

Download newsletter – 18 December 2022

4th Sunday of Advent

In the gospel read in our churches this weekend, (Matthew 1:18-24), Joseph has his world turned upside down and makes a choice that will go against what he had accepted all his life as the way to behave. It is an extraordinary challenge, but Joseph has both the strength of character and the faith in God to do it. Joseph highlights what comes with responsibility and what comes with love. Above all, he is open to listening to God through a messenger.

We are all influenced by our culture, our past experiences, our expectations. As Joseph was prepared to listen to the angel, are we prepared to listen to “the message of the angel,” as it is revealed to us today? Can we put aside our preconceived ideas, and be open and humble enough to discern what God might be saying and calling us to do?

The Gospel accounts surrounding the birth of Jesus frequently refer to fear. When the angel appears to Mary explaining that she will conceive the Son of God, when angels appear to the shepherds announcing Jesus’ birth, as well as when the angel appears to Joseph, the message is the same: do not be afraid. All of them were shocked by what they saw, and what they were told, but faith in God helped them muster courage to deal with what befell them.

When we are faced with the most tremendous challenges, can we also find the courage to heed the message: do not be afraid?

Advent Café

Weather permitting, we hope to open our Advent Café on Wednesday, at 6pm in St. Patrick’s parish centre offering an opportunity to explore the Advent theme of “Love” – while praying, chatting, drinking coffee and eating cake!

The aim of the evening is to discover ways in which we, as a Catholic family can make the “Love of Advent” a reality for someone, somewhere this Christmas.

All are welcome and admission to a warm, friendly environment is free.

Christmas Mass Times

Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church on Christmas Eve at 5.30pm with carols

This will be followed by mulled wine, soft drinks and mince pies in the parish centre.

Mass on Christmas morning will be celebrated in St. Alban’s Church at 9.30am.

Mass Intentions

Fr. Patterson will celebrate Mass for the following Intentions during the coming week. With the exception of Wednesday and Friday all Masses are open to everyone.

Monday: No Mass
Tuesday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre: George Owens
Wednesday: (Private Mass) Pat Cunningham
Thursday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Brian Grace Snr and Brian Grace Jnr
Friday: (Private Mass) Private Intention
Christmas Eve: 5.30pm in St. Patrick’s Church: For the Intentions of all our parishioners
Christmas Day: 9.30am in St. Alban’s Church: For the Intentions of all our parishioners

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from our Cathedral on a Sunday. Visit the Cathedral website.

Alternatively, you may like to follow Mass from the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Please keep in your prayers:

all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital and,
all those near and dear to us whose memories we cherish at this time especially Nellie Armstrong, Rose Wright and Patrick Wright

An Advent prayer of Love

Lord, thank you for loving us so much that you gave your Son for us, even before we loved you. Thank you for inviting us into your family. Help us to love one another in perfect harmony; to see every person in the same way that you see them and to love them in the way that you love them. Amen.

An Advent prayer of Joy

Heavenly Father, thank you for the joy that entered the world when Jesus was born, when you became God with us. Enrich our lives and enable us to live joyfully in those difficult or busy moments. Help us to recognise your presence among us and fill our hearts with renewed strength, courage, hope and joy. Amen.

An Advent prayer of Peace

Lord, in a season when every heart should be happy and light, many are struggling with the burdens of life. We need your peace, O Lord. Our hearts are too often filled with wondering how the bills will be paid, when the terror will stop, when rest will come. In a world where worry, not peace, prevails, stir up the good news again, make it real in our hearts for we live at a time when we need your peace more than ever. Amen

An Advent prayer of Hope

God of Hope, we seek you. During this holy season of Advent, help us to see you in all whom we encounter. May your hope be a comfort to all who long for justice. May your hope fill our hearts and grace our lips so that we might reflect your hope for all the world. Amen

A Prayer for those who are ill and for those who care for them

A Prayer for Ukraine

Loving God, we pray for the people of Ukraine, for all those suffering or afraid, that you will be close to them and protect them. We pray for world leaders, for compassion, strength and wisdom to guide their choices. We pray for the world that in this moment of crisis, we may reach out in solidarity to our brothers and sisters in need. May we walk in your ways so that peace and justice become a reality for the people of Ukraine and for the whole world. Amen

Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons for Advent

Each week Bishop Barron offers a Sunday sermon.

All are welcome

Currently, only baptised Catholic people are able to receive Holy Communion and we ask that when you approach the altar you extend your hands towards the minister who will place the sacred host in your hand which you should then consume immediately before returning to your place.

If you are not a Catholic or are indisposed to receive Holy Communion, you are invited to come forward at the appropriate time and receive a blessing, indicating your desire by folding an arm across your chest.

Refreshments after Mass

Enjoy each others company in a warm and friendly setting with tasty refreshments in St. Patrick’s parish centre after Mass this Sunday.

Are you feeling unwell?

If you are feeling unwell or have any cold, flu or Covid symptons, particularly a persistent cough, you should consider staying at home rather than coming to church.

Mass on Tuesday and Thursday at St. Patrick’s

In an effort to manage our heating costs, Mass on Tuesday and Thursday will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 10am Refreshments will be served after Mass on Tuesday. Entry by the “top door” of the church which will be locked at 9.55am for security purposes or by the parish centre doors. Parking is available in the main church car park.

Thank you

Fr. Patterson is very grateful for a gift aided donation of £100.00 received last week for St. Patrick’s parish funds.

Why not help to boost St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s income at no additional cost to yourself!

These are difficult times for everyone as the cost of living and energy costs are starting to impact on us, our parishes included. Fr. Patterson wishes to express his gratitude for your generous weekly contributions to parish funds enabling us to pay our bills.

Please help to boost the income of both of our churches by Gift Aiding your weekly offering if you are a tax payer. It costs you nothing more than you already give to the church, but we are able to claim from HMRC 25p of every £1.00 you are already giving. All that is required is that you sign a simple form providing the Diocese with your name and address and they do the rest for us. You do not have to declare anything about your personal financial situation on the form.

Forms may be obtained from John Gillum who is the parish Gift Aid Organiser for both of our churches. Simply drop him an email at stpatrick.giftaid@outlook.com.

Whether you are a tax payer or not, you can help to relieve the pressure on our “Counting Teams” and those who have to bank the monies, by making your weekly contribution by Standing order. The details below will enable you to do so.

St Alban’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 92010984

St Patrick’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Felling St Patrick, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 52010453

Advent 2022

The Diocesan Vicariate for Faith & Mission have produced a series of reflections on the readings used throughout the Advent season. The reflections have been written by members of the Diocese.

Cafod also offers some Advent reflections.

Gateshead Covid update

You may find this data from the Borough of interest. Figures are as reported on 15th December, 2022.

79 new Covid cases in the seven days up to 10th December which is a increase of 12 from the previous 7 days; 3 people died in the same period, which is the same number as the previous 7 days; 45 patients with Covid were in the QE Hospital on 14th December.

According to the Office for National statistics 1 in 50 people currently have Covid in the UK

Advent Alms

During Advent, St Cuthbert’s Care call upon the generosity of the people of our Diocese to help raise funds to purchase a newer minibus for their two nursing homes. Your support will allow them to offer more regular outings throughout the year, ensuring their residents’ lives remain as varied as possible. They appreciate this winter will be difficult for many and urge you only to support them if you are able to do so. Should you wish to support their appeal, place your offering in an envelope marked “Advent Alms” and place it in one of the boxes at the entrance to our churches. Offerings are welcome throughout the four weeks of Advent.

Bishop Robert stands down

I feel sure many of us will be saddened to learn that Bishop Robert has felt a need to resign as our bishop. The following is an extract from his letter published last Monday, 12th December, 2022.

“The Church’s teachings confirm a Diocesan Bishop needs to be as Christ among the people entrusted to him. The office of bishop carries great responsibility to provide spiritual leadership and governance to a diocese.

I have recently had need to discern and reflect upon this question for myself and the Diocese of Hexham & Newcastle. Having done so, and with great sorrow and reluctance, I have concluded that the office of the Diocesan Bishop has become too great a burden and I feel I must resign from my position as your Bishop.

My own discernment has caused me to recognise that I now feel unable to continue serving the people of the diocese in the way that I would wish. Having undertaken this discernment process, and with due consultation with others, I indicated my wish to resign to the Holy Father and he has graciously accepted my request.

My resignation having been accepted; I propose to return to my Oratorian Community in Oxford. I ask for your continued prayers and provide you with an assurance of a remembrance in my own prayers.”

The Northern Catholic Calendar

A small number of copies of our Diocesan Year Book “The Northern Catholic Calendar” are on sale this weekend, priced at £3.00

As Christmas approaches are you able to support our Diocesan Justice and Peace Refugee Project?

When doing your own shopping for Christmas, please spare a thought for the above project. It supports over 400 clients each week, who all receive a bag of food. Those who are destitute also receive a supermarket voucher.

Donations of sugar, biscuits, tinned fish in oil, tins of tomatoes and chick peas may be left on the table to your right as you enter the front of St. Patrick’s Church or on any table if you enter by the rear door. A basket is also available in the porch at St. Alban’s Church and in our school. They are particularly in need of toiletries and shampoo. Please note: baked beans and tinned meat are not required.

Our School News : www.stalbansgateshead.org

Year 6 will lead the school family in our final Advent service of prayer on Friday morning at 9.15am in the school hall. School then closes for the Christmas holidays in the afternoon reopening on Tuesday 10^th January. We wish you all a very happy and peaceful Christmas and look forward to seeing you in the New Year.

Little Saints

Our Toddler Group will re-start on Thursday 19^th January, 2023 and are extending their hours from 9.30 – 11.30am. Families with pre-school age children are very welcome.

Download newsletter – 18 December 2022

Parish newsletter

Posted on 10 December 2022 by admin

Download newsletter – 11 December 2022

3rd Sunday of Advent

The third week of Advent is a time to remember with great joy the good news of Jesus’ birth.

It is a joy that does not depend on what is going on in our life, in the world, or among the people we are with. It doesn’t depend on the gifts we give or the gifts we find under the tree. Our joy comes from the Lord. It is the same joy that flooded the hearts of the shepherds, the angels, the wise men, the hosts of heaven, and Mary and Joseph. It is a joy that still has the power to overwhelm our hearts with rejoicing.

Those who gathered around the new born child were blessed because they believed that the promise made by the Lord had been fulfilled. Mary and Joseph believed and were able to feel the joy of holding baby Jesus in their arms. The shepherds and wise men believed the angels and the signs and experienced the great gladness of worshipping their Messiah.

They trusted in the Lord’s promises and their hearts were filled with gladness as they watched God’s loving-kindness manifested in the face of a tiny baby in a lowly manger.

May we experience something of that same joy and happiness this Christmas.

Advent Café

Thanks to those who returned to our Advent Café last Wednesday. Our “customers” left with a desire to seek something of the peace of Advent amidst the present turmoil of life.

The Cafe will be open again this coming Wednesday at 6pm in St. Patrick’s parish centre.

……….offering a chance to explore the Advent theme of “Joy” – something that we may feel is eluding us at present – while praying, chatting, drinking coffee and eating cake!

The aim of the evening is to discover ways in which we, as a Catholic family can make the “Joy of Advent” a reality for someone, somewhere this Christmas.

All are welcome and admission to a warm, friendly environment is free.

Christmas Mass Times

Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church on Christmas Eve at 5.30pm with carols

Mass on Christmas morning will be celebrated in St. Alban’s Church at 9.30am.

Mass Intentions

Fr. Patterson will celebrate Mass for the following Intentions during the coming week. With the exception of Wednesday and Friday all Masses are open to everyone.

Monday: No Mass
Tuesday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre – Sheila Amed,
Wednesday: (Private Mass) LDM Bradley and Wright Families
Thursday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Joan and Eddie McAtominey
Friday: (Private Mass) Private Intention
Saturday: 6pm in St. Alban’s Church: For the Intentions of all our parishioners
Sunday: 10am in St. Patrick’s Church: Kathleen Burrell

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from our Cathedral on a Sunday. Visit the Cathedral website.

Alternatively, you may like to follow Mass from the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Please keep in your prayers:

all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital and,
all those near and dear to us whose memories we cherish at this time especially Kathleen Hughes and Joan McAtominey

Bishop Robert

Please keep Bishop Robert in your prayers. On the advice of his doctor, he is currently taking some medical leave from the Diocese.

An Advent prayer of Joy

An Advent prayer of Peace

An Advent prayer of Hope

A Prayer for those who are ill and for those who care for them

A Prayer for Ukraine

Loving God, we pray for the people of Ukraine, for all those suffering or afraid, that you will be close to them and protect them. We pray for world leaders, for compassion, strength and wisdom to guide their choices. We pray for the world that in this moment of crisis, we may reach out in solidarity to our brothers and sisters in need. May we walk in your ways so that peace and justice become a reality for the people of Ukraine and for the whole world. Amen

Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons for Advent

Each week Bishop Barron offers a Sunday sermon.

All are welcome

Refreshments after Mass

Enjoy each others company in a warm and friendly setting with tasty refreshments in St. Patrick’s parish centre after Mass this Sunday.

Are you feeling unwell?

If you are feeling unwell or have any cold, flu or Covid symptons, particularly a persistent cough, you should consider staying at home rather than coming to church.

Mass on Tuesday and Thursday at St. Patrick’s

In an effort to manage our heating costs, Mass on Tuesday and Thursday will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 10am. Refreshments will be served after Mass on Tuesday. Entry will be by the parish centre doors only. Parking is available in the main church car park.

St. Alban’s Review

When Fr. Patterson met with Bishop Robert earlier in the year, the Bishop agreed that although the level of support offered by parishioners was far from what was hoped for, Fr. Patterson could proceed with the reopening of St. Alban’s churchfor a Saturday Vigil Mass only, to assess the level of need and support. The Bishop asked Fr. Patterson to review the situation after the summer.

Bishop Robert had arranged to meet with Fr, Patterson for this review on 1st December, but because the Bishop has been advised to take some medical leave from the Diocese, the meeting was postponed. It will be rescheduled once the Bishop returns. In the meantime, Fr. Patterson will continue to celebrate a vigil Mass in St. Alban’s church on Saturdays at 6pm.

Why not help to boost St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s income at no additional cost to yourself!

Forms may be obtained from John Gillum who is the parish Gift Aid Organiser for both of our churches. Simply drop him an email at stpatrick.giftaid@outlook.com.

Thanks to everyone who is already in the Gift Aid scheme. Your generosity during the last tax year 2021/22 resulted in us receiving from HMRC £1,734.26 for St. Alban’s and £4,089.89 for St. Patrick’s. If you require a Statement for tax purposes of the amount you contributed last year, please contact John Gillum at stpatrick.giftaid@outlook.com.

St Alban’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 92010984

St Patrick’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Felling St Patrick, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 52010453

Advent 2022

The Diocesan Vicariate for Faith & Mission have produced a series of reflections on the readings used throughout the Advent season. The reflections have been written by members of the Diocese.

Cafod also offers some Advent reflections, which may be found here.

Gateshead Covid update

You may find this data from the Borough of interest. Figures are as reported on 8th December, 2022.

67 new Covid cases in the seven days up to 3rd December which is a decrease of 11 from the previous 7 days; 3 people died in the same period, which is a increase of 2 from the previous 7 days; 41 patients with Covid were in the QE Hospital on 7th December.

According to the Office for National statistics 1 in 60 people currently have Covid in the UK.

Advent Alms

As Christmas approaches are you able to support our Diocesan Justice and Peace Refugee Project?

Donations of sugar, biscuits, tinned fish in oil, tins of tomatoes and chick peas may be left on the table to your right as you enter the front of St. Patrick’s Church or on any table if you enter by the rear door. A basket is also available in the porch at St. Alban’s Church and in our school. They are particularly in need of toiletries and shampoo. Please note: baked beans and tinned meat are not required.

More information may be found by clicking here: Justice & Peace Refugee Project

Our School News : www.stalbansgateshead.org

Advent services of prayer

Our children in Years 5 & 6 will lead the school family in prayer over the last two weeks in Advent. They will reflect on the Sunday Gospel, rejoicing and getting ready to welcome Jesus into their homes this Christmas.

Christmas fair

The Friends of St Alban’s raised over £1000.00 for our children at the Christmas Fair. Many thanks to everyone who contributed and supported us.

Christmas nativity

Our youngest children will be sharing the Christmas Story with families and friends this week, using drama, dance and song. They have been rehearsing with great concentration and determination, sorting out costumes and props, and are now ready to perform.

Chat all things Energy

Gateshead Council along with Citizens Advice (Gateshead) are offering free energy advice sessions as outlined below. All sessions run from 10am – 3pm. You are welcome to go and chat to their experts on how you could save on your bills.

Thursday, 15th December at Birtley Hub
Friday, 16th December at Chopwell Hub (Community Centre)
Thursday, 12th January, 2023 at Springwell Community Centre
Friday, 13th January at Gateshead Central Library
Tuesday, 24th January at Birtley Community Association
Thursday, 26th January at Whickham Library
Thursday, 9th February at Winlaton Centre
Friday, 10th February at Edberts House
Thursday, 23rd February at Gateshead Central Library

Download newsletter – 11 December 2022

Parish newsletter

Posted on 4 December 2022 by admin

Download newsletter – 4 December 2022

2nd Sunday of Advent

Parish Newsletter: 2nd Sunday of Advent

Companies spend considerable sums of money in branding their products in the hope that they will attract our attention and convince us that we really need whatever it is they are selling – often persuading us to part with considerable sums of money and convincing our friends and colleagues to do the same!

When it comes to John the Baptist, of whom we hear in the gospel read in our churches this weekend, his brand – his message – was a forceful and uncompromising one. Yet despite John’s gruffness and outspoken honesty, he was a popular figure, drawing crowds from, “Jerusalem, Judaea and the whole Jordan district.” Not only that, but an amazing cross section of society came to hear him.

His focus was on hypocrisy, pride, honesty and fairness.

When the day came for John to proclaim Jesus as the ‘Chosen One’ he did not shirk his responsibility.

The lifestyles of John and Jesus could hardly have been more different.

In the person of John, we meet the person chosen by God to introduce Jesus to the world and his message is as relevant now as it was then: “Repent because the Kingdom of God is near,” only then will we discover Jesus.

Advent Café

Thanks to those who came to the launch of our Advent Café last Wednesday. Our “customers” left with something to Hope for and with something to Hope in.

The Cafe will be open again this coming Wednesday at 6pm in St. Patrick’s parish centre.

……….offering a chance to explore the Advent theme of “Peace” – something today’s world is in great need of – while praying, chatting, drinking coffee and eating cake!!!

The aim of the evening is to discover ways in which we, as a Catholic family can make the “Peace of Advent” a reality for someone, somewhere this Christmas.

All are welcome and admission to a warm, friendly environment is free.

Christmas Mass Times

Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church on Christmas Eve at 5.30pm with carols.

Mass on Christmas morning will be celebrated in St. Alban’s Church at 9.30am.

Mass Intentions

Fr. Patterson will celebrate Mass for the following Intentions during the coming week. With the exception of Wednesday and Friday all Masses are open to everyone.

Monday: No Mass
Tuesday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre – The Hughes and Knock Families,
Wednesday: (Private Mass) – Kevin Henry (NF)
Thursday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre – Ellen Farrell
Friday: (Private Mass) Private Intention
Saturday: 6pm in St. Alban’s Church – For the Intentions of all our parishioners
Sunday: 10am in St. Patrick’s Church – John and Maria Beckett

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from our Cathedral on a Sunday. Visit the Cathedral website.

Alternatively, you may like to follow Mass from the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Please keep in your prayers:

all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital and,
all those near and dear to us whose memories we cherish at this time especially Peter Hughes and John Knock.

Bishop Robert

Please keep Bishop Robert in your prayers. On the advice of his doctor, he is currently taking some medical leave from the Diocese.

An Advent prayer of Peace

An Advent prayer of Hope

A Prayer for those who are ill and for those who care for them

A Prayer for Ukraine

Loving God, we pray for the people of Ukraine, for all those suffering or afraid, that you will be close to them and protect them. We pray for world leaders, for compassion, strength and wisdom to guide their choices. We pray for the world that in this moment of crisis, we may reach out in solidarity to our brothers and sisters in need. May we walk in your ways so that peace and justice become a reality for the people of Ukraine and for the whole world. Amen

Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons for Advent

Each week Bishop Barron offers a Sunday sermon.

All are welcome

Refreshments after Mass

Enjoy each others company in a warm and friendly setting with tasty refreshments in St. Patrick’s parish centre after Mass this Sunday.

Mass on Tuesday and Thursday at St. Patrick’s

In an effort to manage our heating costs, Mass on Tuesday and Thursday will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 10am. Entry will be by the parish centre doors only. Parking is available in the main church car park.

Why not help to boost St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s income at no additional cost to yourself!

Forms may be obtained from John Gillum who is the parish Gift Aid Organiser for both of our churches. Simply drop him an email at stpatrick.giftaid@outlook.com.

St Alban’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 92010984

St Patrick’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Felling St Patrick, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 52010453

Advent 2022

The Advent booklet “Walk with me,” has now arrived having been delayed by the Royal Mail industrial action. It contains a journey of prayer for Advent and is priced at £1.00. They are especially for those parishioners who do not have access to resources provided on the internet.

The Diocesan Vicariate for Faith & Mission have produced a series of reflections on the readings used throughout the Advent season. The reflections have been written by members of the Diocese. The first and second week of Advent reflections can be downloaded from the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle website. The second part of the Advent reflections will be available shortly.

Cafod also offers some Advent reflections, which may be found here: Advent reflections: CAFOD

Our School News : www.stalbansgateshead.org

Advent services of prayer

Our children in Years 3-6 are helping us journey through Advent in prayer in preparation for Christmas. The school community gather in school around the Advent Wreath, with parents, to listen to the Gospel and pray together.

Christmas fair

A date for your diary! Our school Christmas Fair will be held in school from 3.05pm on Thursday, 8^th December. All profits will go to school funds. The PTA group, called the Friends of St Alban’s, are always looking for more helpers to give their time, talents and expertise. Please contact the school office (0191 469 3251) if you would like to help in any way.

Open the book

Open the Book (OtB) offers primary school children an opportunity to hear key Bible stories during 10-15 minute assemblies. A keen group of parishioners established our group just before lockdown and are now seeking new members to join the team. If you are interested, please email m.robinson@stalbansgateshead.org This is a perfect way to bring our parish and school family together and share bible stories with each other.

Little Saints

Families with pre-school age children are invited to join our Toddler Group called “Little Saints,” which meets every Thursday morning in St Alban’s school from 9.30am – 11.00am. All are welcome!

Clothes bank

Our school invite you to recycle, through their clothes bank, any unwanted clothing, shoes, bags, belts and accessories. Simply bring your items to the school and place In doing so, you will be helping to raise money for our school and saving UK landfills too. For more information, please contact the school office 0191 469 3251.

Gateshead Covid update

You may find this data from the Borough of interest. Figures are as reported on 1st December, 2022

78 new Covid cases in the seven days up to 26th November which is an increase of 27 from the previous 7 days; 1 person died in the same period, which is a decrease of 1 from the previous 7 days; 48 patients with Covid were in the QE Hospital on 30th November

Carols by Candlelight

….by Westoe Brass Band, The Diocesan Choir and Ensembles from St Joseph’s Academy, Hebburn are to be held on Friday, 9th December at 19.30 in St Joseph’s Church, Gateshead. Tickets are £10/£8 and only available at the door. Admission for under 18s is free. Cash and card payments are accepted. Refreshments during the interval.

Advent Alms

This Advent, St Cuthbert’s Care call upon the generosity of the people of our Diocese to help raise funds to purchase a newer minibus for their two nursing homes. Your support will allow them to offer more regular outings throughout the year, ensuring their residents’ lives remain as varied as possible. They appreciate this winter will be difficult for many and urge you only to support them if you are able to do so. Should you wish to support their appeal, place your offering in an envelope marked “Advent Alms” and place it one of the boxes at the entrance to our churches. Alternatively, if you have a box of envelopes, you should have an envelope in your box. Offerings are welcome throughout the four weeks of Advent.

As Christmas approaches are you able to support our Diocesan Justice and Peace Refugee Project?

More information about the Justice & Peace Refugee Project.

Download newsletter – 4 December 2022

Parish newsletter

Posted on 26 November 2022 by admin

Download newsletter – 27 November 2022

1^st Sunday of Advent

The season of Advent, which begins this Sunday, is an opportunity to rediscover wonder and surprise in our tired and overstimulated lives.

Children can teach us many lessons during Advent. They are full of natural excitement and exuberance as they look towards the birth of Jesus at Christmas.

In the gospel read in our churches this Sunday, Jesus warns us to: “Stay awake.” It is an important message for us living in the world of today because if we become complacent in our life as a Christian, our faith can become lukewarm.

Advent provides an opportunity to reassess our priorities and live with eyes open to wonder and the gifts we see around us. It is a good time to appreciate and thank those we love for their presence and place in our lives.

Advent is also a time of waiting in hope. The old will pass away and so we hope that Christ will break again into our lives to bring his gift of peace, for which so many people long today.

For many families the busyness of the pre-Christmas season is a challenge to making the most of Advent. In contrast to this whirlwind of busyness, Advent is an opportunity to give some time to prayer and to reflect on the gifts that we have been given. A period of reflection can open our eyes to the wonderful gifts around us and lead us to truly praise God this Christmas.

Opening this week – Advent Café
(aka St. Patrick’s Parish Centre)

Opening Wednesday, 30th November, 2022 at 6pm

Offering a chance to explore the themes of Advent – Hope, Love, Joy and Peace while praying, chatting and drinking coffee and eating cake!!!

The aim is – to find ways in which we, as a Christian, Catholic family can make these Advent ’themes’ a reality for someone, somewhere this Christmas. All are welcome and admission is free in a warm environment.

STILL URGENTLY REQUIRED!!!

Bakers, Baristas, Talkers, Listeners, Carers, Servers, Prayers,

All those interested please contact our Parish Master Chef at adventcafe@icloud.com

All positions are on a totally voluntary basis!

Mass Intentions

Fr. Patterson will celebrate Mass for the following Intentions during the coming week. With the exception of Wednesday and Friday all Masses are open to everyone.

Monday – No Mass
Tuesday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre – Eileen, Billy, Liam and Bernadette Brannigan
Wednesday: (Private Mass) – The Holy Souls
Thursday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre – Pat Cunningham
Friday (Private Mass) – Private Intention
Saturday: 6pm in St. Alban’s Church – For the Intentions of all our parishioners
Sunday: 10am in St. Patrick’s Church – In thanksgiving (ML)

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from our Cathedral on a Sunday. Visit the Cathedral website.

Alternatively, you may like to follow Mass from the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Please keep in your prayers:

all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital and,
all those near and dear to us whose memories we cherish at this time especially Maurice Brown

Bishop Robert

Please keep Bishop Robert in your prayers. On the advice of his doctor, he is currently taking some medical leave from the Diocese.

Lest we forget

November is that time of year when the Church invites us to pray for all those who have died. As well as remembering our own family members and friends, let us remember those parishioners whose deaths were made known to us during the past twelve months:

Celia Anderson ~ Mary Smith ~ Sheila Fletcher ~ Patrick Reilly ~ Celia Morley ~ Maureen Hughes ~ Brian Barrett ~ Jim Ward ~ Joan Elliott ~ John Madden ~ Catherine Harkness ~ Margaret Graham ~ George Owens ~ Connie Hullock ~ Kevin O’Sullivan ~ Ronnie Brown ~ Louise Synnott ~ Catherine Hall ~ Peter Coyne ~ Joan Neil ~ John Rutter ~ Audrey Irvine ~ Pat Cunningham ~ John Southern ~ Kathleen Burrell

May light perpetual shine on them

An Advent prayer of Hope

A Prayer for those who are ill and for those who care for them

A Prayer for Ukraine

Loving God, we pray for the people of Ukraine, for all those suffering or afraid, that you will be close to them and protect them. We pray for world leaders, for compassion, strength and wisdom to guide their choices. We pray for the world that in this moment of crisis, we may reach out in solidarity to our brothers and sisters in need. May we walk in your ways so that peace and justice become a reality for the people of Ukraine and for the whole world. Amen

All are welcome

Refreshments after Mass

Enjoy each others company in a warm and friendly setting with tasty refreshments in St. Patrick’s parish centre after Mass this Sunday.

Mass on Tuesday and Thursday at St. Patrick’s

Why not help to boost St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s income at no additional cost to yourself!

Forms may be obtained from John Gillum who is the parish Gift Aid Organiser for both of our churches. Simply drop him an email at stpatrick.giftaid@outlook.com.

St Alban’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 92010984

St Patrick’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Felling St Patrick, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 52010453

Advent 2022

As we enter the season of Advent the following resources are available for those of you who have access to the internet:-

The Diocesan Vicariate for Faith & Mission have produced a series of reflections on the readings used throughout the Advent season. The reflections have been written by members of the Diocese and offer an opportunity to pause and reflect. The first and second week of Advent reflections can be downloaded from the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle website. The second part of the Advent reflections will be available shortly.

Cafod also offers some Advent reflections.

Fr. Patterson has ordered the Advent booklet “Walk with me,” especially for those of you who do not have access to the internet. Unfortunately they have been delayed due to the Royal Mail industrial action.

Our School News : www.stalbansgateshead.org

Open day

Our school is holding an Open Day on Monday, 28th November, 2022. If you would like to arrange a visit, please telephone the school office on 0191 469 3251 to arrange a time.

Little Saints

Families with pre-school age children are invited to join our Toddler Group called “Little Saints,” which meets every Thursday morning in St Alban’s school from 9.30 – 11.30. All are welcome!

School places available

We have a few spaces available for children aged 3-5 to join our Nursery or Reception class. Please contact the school office for further information 0191 469 3251

Gateshead Covid update

You may find this data from the Borough of interest. Figures are as reported on 24th November, 2022.

50 new Covid cases in the seven days up to 19th November which is an decrease of 40 from the previous 7 days; 2 people have died in the same period, which is an increase of 1 from the previous 7 days; 45 patients with Covid were in the QE Hospital on 23rd November

The Little Sisters of the Poor

………are having a Christmas Fayre at St Joseph’s Home, Westmorland Road, Newcastle on Saturday 3^rd December from 1 – 3pm. All are welcome.

Carols by Candlelight

….by Westoe Brass Band, The Diocesan Choir and Ensembles from St Joseph’s Academy, Hebburn are to be held on Friday, 9th December at 7.30pm in St Joseph’s Church, Gateshead. Tickets are £10/£8 and only available at the door. Admission for under 18s is free. Cash and card payments are accepted. Refreshments during the interval.

Priestly Vocations Discernment Evening

The next Discernment evening for those who may feel they have a vocation to the priestly life, will take place at St. Mary’s Cathedral on Tuesday, 6th December at 6pm.

If you would like to come along, or for more information, please contact the Vocations Promoter, Father Shaun Purdy, by Monday, 28th November, so catering arrangements can be made. Please either call 01670 812 200 or email vocationspromoter@diocesehn.org.uk The evening will finish at 8pm.

Advent Alms

As Christmas approaches are you able to support our Diocesan Justice and Peace Refugee Project?

Donations of sugar, biscuits, tinned fish in oil, tins of tomatoes and chick peas may be left on the table to your right as you enter the front of St. Patrick’s Church or on any table if you enter by the rear door. A basket is also available in the porch at St. Alban’s Church and in our school. They are particularly in need of toiletries and shampoo. Please note: baked beans and tinned meat are not required.

Justice & Peace Refugee Project

Download newsletter – 27 November 2022

Parish newsletter

Posted on 19 November 2022 by admin

Download newsletter – 20 November 2022

The Feast of Christ the King

This Sunday is the Feast of Christ the King. It is also World Youth Sunday.

The following excerpts are from Pope Francis’ message for World Youth Sunday. They are addressed to people of all ages:-

“In these troubling times, when our human family, already tested by the trauma of the pandemic, is racked by the tragedy of war, Mary shows to all of us the path of proximity and encounter.

Bring yourselves to God just as you are, with all of your joys, fears, strengths and challenges. Place yourselves in his presence, knowing that he loves you as we are.

What do you want to give thanks to God for? What good things have happened this week that you want to hold on to? What things do you want to say sorry to God for – things you wished you had done, or things you wished you had done better? What are your goals or aspirations for today? What do you hope to do, learn or enjoy this week?

Take your feelings right now, your joys, challenges and desires for today, and ask God for whatever it is you need : patience? energy? confidence? peace?”

Opening soon – Advent Café
(aka St. Patrick’s Parish Centre)

Opening Wednesday, 30th November, 2022 at 6pm

Offering a chance to explore the themes of Advent – Hope, Love, Joy and Peace while praying, chatting and drinking coffee and eating cake!!!

URGENTLY REQUIRED!!!

Bakers, Baristas, Talkers, Listeners, Carers, Servers, Prayers,

All those interested please contactour Parish Master Chef at adventcafe@icloud.com

All positions are on a totally voluntary basis!

Mass Intentions

Monday – No Mass
Tuesday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre – Paul Hughes
Wednesday: 10am in St. Alban’s Room in school – A Private Intention
Thursday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre – Gerard McCabe
Friday: (Private Mass) Special Intention
Saturday: 6pm in St. Alban’s Church – For the Intentions of all our parishioners
Sunday: 10am in St. Patrick’s Church – Maurice Brown

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed from our Cathedral on a Sunday. Visit the Cathedral website.

Alternatively, you may like to follow Mass from the Holy Name, Jesmond. Visit the website for Mass times this week.

When you are unable to celebrate Mass in Church, you may wish to make this act of spiritual communion:-

Please keep in your prayers:

all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital and,
all those near and dear to us whose memories we cherish at this time especially Dominic Sloan.

Lest we forget

May light perpetual shine on them

A Prayer for Youth Sunday

Loving Lord, watch over the young people of the world. Help them to experience your love for them in all that they do so that they may come to know more deeply that they are valued members of the global world.

A Prayer for those who are ill and for those who care for them

A Prayer for our nation

Almighty God, ruler of all the peoples of the earth, forgive our shortcomings as a nation, purify our hearts to see and love the truth, give wisdom to our leaders, steadfastness to our people and bring us at last
to your kingdom of peace whose foundations are mercy, justice, and goodwill; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

A Prayer for Ukraine

Loving God, we pray for the people of Ukraine, for all those suffering or afraid, that you will be close to them and protect them. We pray for world leaders, for compassion, strength and wisdom to guide their choices. We pray for the world that in this moment of crisis, we may reach out in solidarity to our brothers and sisters in need. May we walk in your ways so that peace and justice become a reality for the people of Ukraine and for the whole world. Amen

All are welcome

Refreshments after Mass

Enjoy each others company in a warm and friendly setting with delightful refreshments in St. Patrick’s parish centre after Mass this Sunday.

Mass on Tuesday and Thursday at St. Patrick’s

Mass in St. Alban’s Room in our school

Fr. Patterson will be celebrating Mass on Wednesday, 23rd November at 10am in St. Alban’s Room in our school when parishioners will be able to join in prayer with some of our children.

To comply with the school’s safeguarding policy, you are asked to enter the school via the Rothbury Avenue gate by ringing the bell at the gate. Cross the yard to the Main Entrance where you will be welcomed, asked to “sign in” and taken to St. Alban’s Room. Please do not arrive before 9.45am and do not attend if you are suffering from any Covid, cold or flu like symptoms. St. Alban’s room is ventilated, but if you wish to wear a face covering you are welcome to do so.

St. Alban’s Church Cleaning

We will be cleaning St Alban’s Church on Friday, 25th November at 10am. If you are able to come, your help would be appreciated.

Bishop Robert

Please keep Bishop Robert in your prayers. On the advice of his doctor, he is taking some medical leave from the Diocese as from last Friday, 18th November.

Youth Sunday Offering

There is an opportunity, for those of you who wish, to make an offering towards the work of the Diocesan Youth Ministry Team. Offerings may be placed in an envelope marked “Youth Sunday” and deposited in one of the collection boxes at the entrances to our churches. Those of you who have boxes of envelopes should find an envelope in your box.

Supporting St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s with your offerings

There are ways you can help at no further cost to yourself. If you are a UK taxpayer, our parishes can recover, through the UK government’s Gift Aid scheme, an extra 25p for every £1.00 you donate. If you wish to support our parishes in this way, please email John, the parish gift aid organiser for both of our parishes at stpatrick.giftaid@outlook.com for the appropriate form.

St Alban’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 92010984

St Patrick’s HSBC bank account name: DHN Felling St Patrick, Sort code: 40-34-18, Account No: 52010453

Vandalism

St. Patrick’s Church suffered some vandalism last Saturday evening at approximately 7pm when lead was stripped off the sacristy roof which resulted in the damage of a considerable number of roof slates. Temporary repairs have been made to prevent the ingress of water into the sacristy and Fr. Patterson is in the process of obtaining estimates for the cost of the repairs.

When passing either of our churches, please keep an eye out for anything or anyone who may appear to be acting in a suspicious manner and let us know, but please do not do anything that would put yourself at risk.

Our School News : www.stalbansgateshead.org

Open day

Our school is holding an Open Day on Monday, 28th November, 2022. If you would like to arrange a visit, please telephone the school office on 0191 469 3251 to arrange a time.

Little Saints

Families with pre-school age children are invited to join our Toddler Group called “Little Saints,” which meets every Thursday morning in St Alban’s school from 9.30 – 11.30. All are welcome!

School places available

We have a few spaces available for children aged 3-5 to join our Nursery or Reception class. Please contact the school office for further information 0191 469 3251

Gateshead Covid update

You may find this data from the Borough of interest. Figures are as reported on 17th November, 2022.

90 new Covid cases in the seven days up to 12th November which is an decrease of 50 from the previous 7 days. 1 person has died in the same period, which is a decrease of 1 from the previous 7 days. There were 50 patients with Covid in the QE Hospital on 16th November

Carols by Candlelight

Cop 27 Climate Change Conference

As the Cop 27 Conference comes to a close, you may be interested in the following.

In 2015 Pope Francis wrote Laudato Si’ (The Letter), an encyclical about the environmental crisis, to every single person in the world. A month ago a film was released in which, four voices that have gone unheard in global conversations were invited to an unprecedented dialogue with the Pope. Hailing from Senegal, the Amazon, India and Hawai’i, they brought perspective and solutions from the poor, the indigenous, the youth and wildlife into a conversation with Pope Francis. This documentary follows their journey to Rome and the extraordinary experiences that took place there. It is packed with powerfully moving personal stories alongside the latest information about the planetary crisis and the toll it’s taking on nature and people.

The Pope, the Environmental Crisis, and Frontline Leaders | The Letter: Laudato Si Film

Download newsletter – 20 November 2022