4th Sunday of Easter

Vocations Sunday – A message from Pope Francis

As baptised people within the Church, all of us are servants, in accordance with the variety of our vocations, charisms and ministries. Our common vocation to give ourselves in love develops and finds concrete expression:-

• in the life of lay men and women, devoted to raising a family as a small domestic church and working as a leaven of the Gospel to renew the different sectors of society;
• in the testimony of consecrated women and men who are completely committed to God for the sake of their brothers and sisters as a prophetic sign of the kingdom of God;
• in ordained ministers – deacons, priests and bishops – placed at the service of preaching, prayer and fostering the communion of the holy People of God.

Only in relation with all the others, does any particular vocation in the Church fully disclose its true nature and richness. Viewed in this light, the Church is a vocational “symphony”, with every vocation united yet distinct, in harmony and joined together in “going forth” to radiate throughout the world the new life of the kingdom of God.

 “Let us pray, brothers and sisters, that the People of God, amid the dramatic events of history, may increasingly respond to God’s call to work together,” the Pope said. “Let us implore the light of the Holy Spirit, so that all of us may find our proper place and give the very best of ourselves in God’s divine plan!”

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.

A message from Fr. Patterson

Fr. Patterson is slowly recovering from post Covid symptoms and is still advised to rest as much as possible. This considerably reduces what he is able to do. He remains grateful to you for your prayers and understanding.

Celebrations during the coming week.

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week.

• Saturday:(29th) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church:  Brian Grace Snr and Brian Grace Jnr
• Sunday     (30th) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  For the Intentions of all our parishioners
• Monday: No Mass
• Tuesday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre for Fr. John Reid
• Wednesday: No Mass
• Thursday: 10am Funeral Mass in St. Patrick’s Church for Stephen Nee
• Friday: No Mass
• Saturday:(6th May) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church:  For the Intentions of all our parishioners
• Sunday:    (7th May) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Catherine Palmer

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:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen.

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time, especially Brian Grace Snr and Brian Grace Jnr and,
• Fr John Reid and Stephen Nee who have died. May they rest in the peace of the Risen Lord

Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons

Each week Bishop Barron offers a Sunday sermon.

The Sacrament of Confirmation – Introductory evening, 12th May, 2023

The Sacrament of Confirmation will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church on the Feast of Christ the King (Youth Sunday) , 26th November, during the 10am Mass.

There will be an introductory evening for all those who are interested in being confirmed, along with their parents, on Friday, 12th May, in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 6.30pm.  This will be followed by a special celebration during Mass on Sunday, 28th May in St. Patrick’s Church which is the Feast of Pentecost.

Confirmation is open to young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who will be in Year 8 and above from September, 2023. Prospective candidates should be regularly attending Mass and will need to take part in a period of preparation which will be outlined at our introductory gathering on 12th May. If you haven’t already registered to be part of the programme please email your details to the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk.

Some dates for your diary – with more news to come.

Saturday, 20th May: A Parish Walk  from  Monkseaton to South Shields with lunch

Saturday, 27th May: A “Forget Me Not” Afternoon Tea Party from 2pm-4pm in St. Patrick’s parish centre

These events are open to everyone from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s, along with friends and neighbours.

More details coming soon

Thank you

Fr. Patterson wishes to express his gratitude to the family of the late Michael Connolly for inviting mourners at his Funeral Mass to consider making donations to support St. Patrick’s Church. Their generosity amounted to £155.50 which will help meet the running costs of the church. Thank you.

Further thanks…….

• to those who organised and supported the recent Bongo Bingo evening in St. Patrick’s parish centre which raised £205.06 for St. Patrick’s parish funds. A great night was had by all and,
• to those who contributed £2,416.00 to the red Mission boxes during the past twelve months. Thanks must also go to those who help empty the boxes in St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s.

Little Sisters of the Poor

Next weekend, 29/30 April, there will be an opportunity for those of you who wish to support the work of the Little Sisters of the Poor. Donations may be placed in an envelope marked Little Sisters and put in the collection boxes at the entrances to our churches. Those of you with boxes of envelopes will have an envelope in your box.

No collection taken

Although we do not take a collection at Mass by passing round a basket, we do hope you will feel able to make an offering towards the upkeep and running costs of our churches in one of the boxes you will find at the entrances to our churches. Your offerings are our sole source of income. Alternatively you may consider making your offering by Standing Order the details of which are above.

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

Parish Walk – Saturday 20^th May, 2023

Why not join us with your family and friends for an enjoyable easy walk from Monkseaton to South Shields.

It will be a time to relax and enjoy our beautiful coast with great company.

The walk will begin either from Monkseaton or Cullercoats and end at South Shields.

We will use the Ferry to cross the Tyne.

It is a distance of about 6 miles from Monkseaton or 3 miles from Cullercoats. The choice is yours.

We propose to have lunch at North Shields Fish Quay or you may choose to bring your own picnic.

Meeting times:

If you are doing the longer walk please meet at Monkseaton Metro Station for 10.30

For the shorter walk, please meet at Cullercoats Metro Station for 11.30.

A Day-saver ticket and the Metro concessionary pass both include the ferry crossing.

Toilets are located at Whitley Bay, Cullercoats, Tynemouth and North Shields.

For more information please contact Terry Grey 07906764697.

News from our School

This summer term we have lots to look forward to. There are residential retreats for Year 4 and Year 5 children either at the Emmaus Village or Holy Island, and an outward-bound adventure course for our Year 6 class at Hawkhirst.

We will also be celebrating the Coronation of King Charles III with school activities and inviting families in for prayers. During May, we will also be praying the rosary and including the parishioners of St Alban’s and St Patrick’s in our prayers. If any parishioners are able to come into school to pray the rosary with us, we would be delighted. Please ring us on 0191 469 3251 to make arrangements.

Also during May and June, many of our children will be taking exams in phonics, times tables, reading, writing and maths. The children have been preparing well with their teachers but would appreciate your prayers to help them remain calm, have a good memory and do their best. Please ask the Holy Spirit to guide and support them. Thank you.

Coronation

To mark the Coronation of King Charles III, Mass will be celebrated in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Newcastle on Friday, 5th May at 12.05 to which you are all invited.

The Diocesan Justice and Peace Refugee Project

Thanks to your support, each month over 400 people who are seeking asylum in our area benefit from this project. Should you wish to support the 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.

Archbishop McMahon wrote to the clergy this week with the following update:-

The Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency has confirmed it is in the process of drafting a report which will be published in due course. Similarly, after a robust and thorough process, the final interviews in the investigation for the Dicastery for Bishops took place in the last few days of March, with further submissions being received within the last week. Carol Lawrence has collated all of the information and is currently drafting a report for Archbishop McMahon. As we continue to celebrate the Easter season, we ask you to remember in your prayers those currently preparing the reports. We pray for their work and for renewal in the Diocese of Hexham & Newcastle as we move forward, learning from their findings and recommendations.

The Parish Newsletter by email

Could you help to offset the cost of printing paper copies of the Newsletter by having it sent to you by email? Many of you have been receiving it electronically throughout the pandemic and continue to do so. If you do not already receive it in this way and would like to receive the Newsletter and other news from the parish by email, please send your request to the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk and you will be added to our contact list. The Newsletter may also be found on our parish website.

A few printed copies will still be available from St. Patrick’s and St. Alban’s churches, on the days they are open for Mass, for those of you who do not have access to email.

3rd Sunday of Easter

We are often led to believe that “new must be better” until we discover that the new gadget, which seemed more attractive when we didn’t actually have it, leads to a sense of disappointment because our lives are not changed by it as we imagined they might be. If we experience such feelings, the best thing to do is consider what it was we really wanted.

The two disciples on the road to Emmaus, in the gospel read in our churches this weekend (Luke 24:13-35), said they had hoped that Jesus would be “the one to set Israel free.” They were probably thinking in political terms. Yet the freedom of Christ is much greater than any political freedom. Israel would indeed be free in Christ, but, in his words, “You will learn the truth and the truth will make you free.”

We might, at times, be disappointed in our faith. That is why many Christians fall away from belief. If they do, they tend to seek some other form of happiness. Without realising it, deep down, they seek the truth, and the truth is something that we can only find in Christ, through the power of the Holy Spirit that he promised us

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.

A message from Fr. Patterson

Fr. Patterson is making slow progress recovering from post Covid systems. He is still advised to continue to rest as much as possible. He remains grateful to you for your prayers, kind wishes, understanding and patience.

Celebrations during the coming week.

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week.

• Monday:  No Mass
• Tuesday: 10am Funeral Mass in St. Patrick’s Church for Michael Connolly
• Wednesday: No Mass
• Thursday: No Mass
• Friday: No Mass
• Saturday: 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church:  Brian Grace Snr and Brian Grace Jnr
• Sunday (30th): 10am Mass 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:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen.

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time, especially Brian Grace Snr, Brian Grace Jnr and Paul Hughes and,
• Fr John Reid, Michael Connolly and Stephen Nee who have died. May they rest in the peace of the   Risen Lord.

St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s Coronation Tea Party

Join us in a traditional afternoon tea in St. Patrick’s parish centre, next Saturday, 29th April from 2-4pm to celebrate the upcoming Coronation of King Charles III. Bring along your family, friends and neighbours. All are welcome.

The Sacrament of Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church on the Feast of Christ the King (Youth Sunday) , 26th November, during the 10am Mass.

There will be an introductory evening for all those who are interested in being confirmed, along with their parents, on Friday, 12th May, in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 6:30pm.  This will be followed by a special celebration during Mass on Sunday, 28th May in St. Patrick’s Church which is the Feast of Pentecost.

Confirmation is open to young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who will be in Year 8 and above from September, 2023. Prospective candidates should be regularly attending Mass and will need to take part in a period of preparation which will be outlined at our introductory gathering on 12th May.

If you haven’t already registered to be part of the programme please email your details to the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk.

Some dates for your diary – with more news to come.

Saturday, 20th May: A Parish Walk  from  Monkseaton to South Shields with lunch

Saturday, 27th May: A “Forget Me Not” Afternoon Tea Party from 2-4pm in St. Patrick’s parish centre

These events are open to everyone from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s, along with friends and neighbours.

More details coming soon

Thank you

Fr. Patterson is grateful for donations of £45.00 received for St. Patrick’s Church from mourners attending the Funeral Service for Moyra O’Brien. They will help meet the running costs of the church

Little Sisters of the Poor

Next weekend, 29/30 April, there will be an opportunity for those of you who wish to support the work of the Little Sisters of the Poor. Donations may be placed in an envelope marked Little Sisters and put in the collection boxes at the entrances to our churches. Those of you with boxes of envelopes will have an envelope in your box.

No collection taken

Although we do not take a collection at Mass by passing round a basket, we do hope you will feel able to make an offering towards the upkeep and running costs of our churches in one of the boxes you will find at the entrances to our churches. Your offerings are our sole source of income. Alternatively you may consider making your offering by Standing Order the details of which are above.

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

The Diocesan Justice and Peace Refugee Project

Thanks to your support, each month over 400 people who are seeking asylum in our area benefit from this project. Should you wish to support the 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.

Archbishop McMahon wrote to the clergy this week with the following update:-

The Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency has confirmed it is in the process of drafting a report which will be published in due course. Similarly, after a robust and thorough process, the final interviews in the investigation for the Dicastery for Bishops took place in the last few days of March, with further submissions being received within the last week. Carol Lawrence has collated all of the information and is currently drafting a report for Archbishop McMahon. As we continue to celebrate the Easter season, we ask you to remember in your prayers those currently preparing the reports. We pray for their work and for renewal in the Diocese of Hexham & Newcastle as we move forward, learning from their findings and recommendations

Third World Group

Thanks to those who continue to support our parish Third World Group who recently help raise £80.00.

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

2^nd Sunday of Easter

The majority of the risen appearances of Jesus occur when his disciples are gathered together. Even before he appears, they find a sense of safety in their companionship; and after the Lord ascends to his Father, as the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles read in our churches this weekend relates:-

The faithful all lived together and owned everything in common; they sold their goods and possessions and shared out the proceeds among themselves according to what each one needed. They went as a body to the Temple every day but met in their houses for the breaking of bread; they shared their food gladly and generously; they praised God and were looked up to by everyone. Day by day the Lord added to their community those destined to be saved.”

(Acts 2: 42-47)

Their two practices of going to the Temple for prayer and then meeting in their own homes for the breaking of bread would become fused in time into what we now do in the Mass together. The Liturgy of the Word is followed by the Liturgy of the Eucharist, but they are both acts we share together, and it is out of that that we are empowered to bring the peace and mercy of Christ into the troubled world of today.

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.

A message from Fr. Patterson

Fr. Patterson is making slow progress recovering from post Covid systems. He is still advised to continue to rest as much as possible. He remains grateful to you for your prayers, kind wishes, understanding, patience.

Celebrations during the coming week.

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week:

• Sunday (16th) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  Makepeace and Shanks Families
• Monday:  No Mass
• Tuesday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Margaret Barnes
• Wednesday: No Mass
• Thursday: 10.15am Funeral Service in St. Patrick’s Church for Moyra O’Brien
• Friday: No Mass
• Saturday: 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church:  For the Intentions of all our parishioners
• Sunday (23rd): 10am Mass 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:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen.

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital and Fr John Reid, one of our retired priests, who is currently unwell
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time, especially Paul Hughes and,
• Moyra O’Brien (Mackey) and Michael Connolly who have died. May they rest in the peace of the Risen Lord.

St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s Social  Evening

Join us for a fun filled vibrant evening of Bingo with a twist. St. Patrick’s parish centre, this Friday, 21st April from 7pm. A suggested donation of £1.00 per person may be made for St. Patrick’s parish funds Please bring your own drinks and snacks.

The Sacrament of Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church on the Feast of Christ the King (Youth Sunday) , 26th November, during the 10am Mass.

There will be an introductory evening for all those who are interested in being confirmed, along with their parents, on Friday, 12th May, in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 6.30pm.  This will be followed by a special celebration during Mass on Sunday, 28th May in St. Patrick’s Church which is the Feast of Pentecost.

Confirmation is open to young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who will be in Year 8 and above from September, 2023. Prospective candidates should be regularly attending Mass and will need to take part in a period of preparation which will be outlined at our introductory gathering on 12th May.

If you haven’t already registered to be part of the programme please email your details to the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk.

Some dates for your diary – with more news to come.

Saturday, 29th April: A Coronation Afternoon Tea  Party from 2-4pm  in St. Patrick’s parish centre

Saturday, 20th May: A Parish Walk  from  Monkseaton to South Shields with lunch

Saturday, 27th May: A “Forget Me Not” Afternoon Tea Party from 2-4pm in St. Patrick’s parish centre

These events are open to everyone from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s, along with friends and neighbours.

More details coming soon

Serving those who have served us well -The Northern Brethren Fund

The annual collection for the Sick and Retired Priests of the Diocese will be taken this weekend, 15th and 16th April, and the Fund will remain open until 5th May for donations. This collection goes to support our Sick and Retired Priests who have served our diocese over many years. The “Superiors” of the Fund who are priests of the Diocese wish to ensure that this Fund is also there for future retired priests. Recent years have been very difficult and income has drastically declined. The Superiors invite you to consider donating £5.00 or £10.00 (and if possible Gift Aid your donation) in recognition of all the priests who have served in our parishes over many years. For further information on Gift Aid, one-off larger donations, or a bequest in your Will, please do not hesitate to contact Fr. Ian Jackson on 0191 586 4319. Should you wish to make a donation please place your offering in an envelope marked “NBF” and place it in one of the collections boxes at the entrances to our churches. Those with boxes of envelopes should have an envelope.

Thank you

Fr. Patterson is grateful for two donations of £40.00, one of £10.00 and another of £5.00 for St. Patrick’s parish funds received during Easter time. Thanks to everyone for your ongoing generosity in these difficult times for us all. Although we do not take a collection at Mass by passing round a basket, we do hope you will feel able to make an offering towards the upkeep and running costs of our churches in one of the boxes you will find at the entrances to our churches. Your offerings are our sole source of income. Should you wish to make your offering by standing order the details are:

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

Easter Sunday

We have travelled from garden to garden in our passage through the readings of Holy Week. Beginning in the days of the vast garden of creation, divinely blessed and loved, to the garden of Christ’s empty tomb where in the beauty of the Easter dawn Mary Magdalene will mistake the Risen Lord for the local gardener.

But our journey is just beginning. There is a further garden. The one promised to the repentant thief by Jesus in the agony of his crucifixion. ‘Today you will be with me in the garden of paradise.’ (Fr. John Farrell OP adapted)

Fr. Patterson wishes you all a very happy and spiritually rewarding Easter.

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.

A message from Fr. Patterson

Fr. Patterson is making slow progress recovering from post Covid systems. He is advised to continue to rest as much as possible. He remains grateful to you for your prayers, kind wishes, understanding, patience , Easter cards and Easter eggs!

He also wishes to thank those who made the celebration of the Easter and Holy Week services possible by their active participation and prayerful attendance. Thanks must also go to the editor of our “Share a Prayer” leaflet which has been circulated throughout Lent and comes to an end with an Easter Sunday edition.

Celebrations during the coming week.

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week.

• Easter Sunday (9th) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  George Owens
• Monday:  No Mass
• Tuesday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Knock, Hughes and Kelly Families
• Wednesday: No Mass
• Thursday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre:  David and Brenda Gibbon
• Friday: No Mass
• Saturday: 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church:  For the Intentions of all our parishioners
• Sunday (16th): 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  Makepeace and Shanks Families

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:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen.

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital and Fr John Reid, one of our retired priests, who is currently unwell
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time, especially Pat Donald and Elizabeth Knock and,
• Moyra O’Brien (Mackey) who has died. May she rest in the peace of the Risen Lord.

The Sacrament of Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church on the Feast of Christ the King (Youth Sunday) , 26th November, during the 10am Mass.

There will be an introductory evening for all those who are interested in being confirmed, along with their parents, on Friday, 12th May, in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 6.30pm.  This will be followed by a special celebration during Mass on Sunday, 28th May in St. Patrick’s Church which is the Feast of Pentecost.

Confirmation is open to young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who will be in Year 8 and above from September, 2023. Prospective candidates should be regularly attending Mass and will need to take part in a period of preparation which will be outlined at our introductory gathering on 12th May.

If you haven’t already registered to be part of the programme please email your details to the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk.

Some dates for your diary – with more news to come.

• Friday, 21st April:  A Parish Social Evening taking the form of  “Bongo Bingo” at 7pm in St. Patrick’s parish centre
• Saturday, 29th April: A Coronation Afternoon Tea  Party from 2-4pm  in St. Patrick’s parish centre
• Saturday, 20th May: A Parish Walk  from  Monkseaton to South Shields with lunch
• Saturday, 27th May: A “Forget Me Not” Afternoon Tea Party from 2-4pm in St. Patrick’s parish centre

These events are open to everyone from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s, along with friends and neighbours.

More details coming soon

Serving those who have served us well -The Northern Brethren Fund

The annual collection for the Sick and Retired Priests of the Diocese will be taken next weekend, 15th and 16th April, and the Fund will remain open until 5th May for donations. This collection goes to support our Sick and Retired Priests who have served our diocese over many years. The “Superiors” of the Fund who are priests of the Diocese wish to ensure that this Fund is also there for future retired priests. Recent years have been very difficult and income has drastically declined. The Superiors invite you to consider donating £5.00 or £10.00 (and if possible Gift Aid your donation) in recognition of all the priests who have served in our parishes over many years. For further information on Gift Aid, one-off larger donations, or a bequest in your Will, please do not hesitate to contact Fr. Ian Jackson on 0191 586 4319. Should you wish to make a donation please place your offering in an envelope marked “NBF” and place it in one of the collections boxes at the entrances to our churches. Those with boxes of envelopes should have an envelope.

Palm Sunday

Lent at Home

We hope your “Personal Pilgrimage” through Lent is proving to be a fruitful experience, especially for those of you who feel unable to come to Church, knowing that your fellow parishioners are remembering you in prayer.

This week, more than any other, is an invitation to join with Jesus in his personal journey to Jerusalem, then on to his death on the Cross from which he rises to offer us the gift of the new life of the Resurrection.

Try to set aside some extra time each day for prayer and reflection whether that be in the “solitude” of your own home or room, or coming together for our Holy Week services. Try to avoid falling into the trap of taking the approach “been there, got the T-shirt” and welcome each day of Holy Week anew. Our Share a Prayer sheet may help you in this regard.

If you would like to share a prayer with other parishioners over Easter, please email your prayers to adventcafe@icloud.com by Thursday.

A thought for Holy Week

According to St. Matthew, when Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was in turmoil. Not much has changed since then. Today our world is in turmoil. Our country is in turmoil. Some of us may feel  the turmoil in our own lives. It’s in the news. It’s in the air. It’s in our hearts.

As Jesus entered Jerusalem the whole city was asking, “Who is this?” The crowds were saying, “This is the prophet Jesus of Nazareth.” But did anyone realise Jesus is the Son of God sent because God “so loved the world;” the one who says, “Come to me, all you that are weary and carrying burdens, and I will give you rest;” the one who says, “Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid.”

Jesus is the one who says, “I am the light of the world; the resurrection and the life.”  and “I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Whatever your Holy Week brings you, takes from you, or asks of you, do not close your eyes or turn away from the one who enters the turmoil of Jerusalem, the “one who comes in the name of the Lord.” For this is the one who will rise to new life on the third day and he plans on taking you with him.

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.

Covid 19

Fr. Patterson is making little progress recovering from post Covid systems. He continues to be advised to rest as much as possible. He remains grateful for your prayers, kind wishes, understanding and patience.

Celebrations during the coming week.

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week.

• Monday:  No Mass
• Tuesday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  Funeral Mass for Thomas Conway
• Wednesday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre:  A Reflection on the journey of Jesus to his crucifixion
• Thursday: 6pm Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  Bill Harland
• Friday: 3pm in St. Patrick’s Church: The Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion
• Saturday: 6pm Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  For the Intentions of all our parishioners
• Sunday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  George Owens

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:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen.

---

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital and Fr John Reid, one of our retired priests, who is currently unwell
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time, especially Jimmy Connolly and Pat Donald and,
• Thomas Conway who have died. May he rest in the peace of the Risen Lord.

Holy Week and Easter Services

As the Solemn Celebration of the Vigil of Easter takes place in St. Patrick’s Church, Fr. Patterson had hoped to be able to celebrate Mass on Easter Sunday in St. Alban’s Church. Unfortunately his slow recovery from the effects of Covid, which considerably limit his strength and energy, will prevent him from doing so.

The following services, with the exception of Wednesday, will take place in St. Patrick’s Church. 

• Wednesday 5th April at 10am: A Reflection on the journey of Jesus to his crucifixion (Stations of the Cross) – St. Patrick’s parish centre
• Holy Thursday 6th April at 6pm: The Mass of the Lord’s Supper
• Good Friday 7th April at 3pm: The Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion on Good Friday
• Holy Saturday 8th April at 6pm: The Solemn Celebration of the Vigil of Easter
• Easter Sunday 9th April at 10am: The Mass of the Resurrection

In the neighbourhood

As well as Mass in St. Patrick’s on Easter Sunday at 10am, Mass will also be celebrated in St. James, Hebburn at 9.15am and in St. Aloysius, Hebburn at 11am. There is no Mass on Easter Sunday in St. Augustine’s, Leam Lane.

The Sacrament of Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church on the Feast of Christ the King (Youth Sunday) , 26th November, during the 10am Mass.

There will be an introductory evening for all those who are interested in being confirmed, along with their parents, on Friday, 12th May, in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 6.30pm.  This will be followed by a special celebration during Mass on Sunday, 28th May in St. Patrick’s Church which is the Feast of Pentecost.

Confirmation is open to young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who will be in Year 8 and above from September, 2023. Prospective candidates should be regularly attending Mass and will need to take part in a period of preparation which will be outlined at our introductory gathering on 12th May.

If you haven’t already registered to be part of the programme please email your details to the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk.

Holy Communion under Both Kinds

The Bishops’ of England and Wales have decided that, given the current situation regarding the spread of Covid and the fact that most people have had three or four vaccinations, now would be a suitable time to grant permission for the resumption of the distribution of Holy Communion under both species.

Please note that this is a permission and not a requirement. The decision as to whether or not to reintroduce this custom rests with each parish priest.

Taking into account the views of our Eucharistic Ministers from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s, who would be involved in the distribution of the Precious Blood and having to consume what remained after Holy Communion and considering the demographics of our parishes along with the high transmission rate of Covid,  Fr. Patterson does not feel it is appropriate to reintroduce this custom at the present time.

Please remember that the Doctrine of Concomitance, which we were all taught at school, affirms that Jesus is entirely present, body, blood, soul and divinity under the form of both bread and wine. It is also worth noting that Holy Communion under both kinds was only reintroduced into the Mass during the 1970s after having been discontinued in the thirteenth century.

Lenten Booklet of Reflections

The Diocesan Vicariate for Faith & Mission has produced the second booklet of Lenten reflections for this year. The reflections have been contributed by a range of clergy, religious and lay people to express the richness and variety of our Diocesan community. Unfortunately the booklet is only available online.

The Holy Places Collection

This collection was originally taken on Good Friday but in recent times has been taken on Palm Sunday (next Sunday, 2nd April). Should you wish to contribute to this collection, please place your offering in an envelope marked “Holy Places” and deposit it in one of the collection boxes at the entrance to our churches. Those of you with boxes of envelopes should find an envelope in your box.

Lenten Alms Appeal

The Appeal this year will help St. Cuthbert’s Care raise funds to purchase a small vehicle to be used across their two nursing homes. If you wish to support this appeal, please place your donation in an envelope marked “Lenten Alms” and place it in one of the collection boxes at the entrance to our churches.

Your Weekly Offering by Standing Order

Fr. Patterson has had several requests recently for the details required to make your weekly offering by Standing Order. They 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

You are still able to Gift Aid your offering by Standing Order. If you are not already in the Gift Aid scheme and would like to join, please email John, the Gift Aid organiser for both of our churches who will send you the necessary form. You must be a tax payer to Gift aid you contribution. John’s email is stpatrick.giftaid@outlook.com.

Petitions for Lourdes

One of our parishioners will be going on pilgrimage to Lourdes in Easter week and has offered to take any prayer petitions people may wish to send to be placed in the Grotto at Lourdes. Should you wish to send a prayer petition please place it in an envelope marked “Lourdes petition” and deposit it in one of the collecting boxes at the entrances to our churches before Good Friday. Please do not put money in your envelope as these are prayer petitions not Mass offerings. Your petitions are not opened in Lourdes and are burnt after a suitable period of time.

Some dates for your diary – with more news to come.

• Friday, 21st April:  A Parish Social Evening taking the form of  “Bongo Bingo” at 7pm in St. Patrick’s parish centre
• Saturday, 29th April: A Coronation Afternoon Tea  Party from 2 – 4pm  in St. Patrick’s parish centre
• Saturday, 20th May: A Parish Walk from Monkseaton to South Shields with lunch
• Saturday, 27th May: A “Forget Me Not” Afternoon Tea Party from 2 – 4pm in St. Patrick’s parish centre

These events are open to everyone from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s, along with friends and neighbours.

More details coming soon

Serving those who have served us well -The Northern Brethren Fund

The annual collection for the Sick and Retired Priests of the Diocese will be taken on the weekend of 15th and 16th April 2023, and the Fund will remain open until 5th May for donations. This collection goes to support our Sick and Retired Priests who have served our diocese over many years. The “Superiors” of the Fund who are priests of the Diocese wish to ensure that this Fund is also there for future retired priests. Recent years have been very difficult and income has drastically declined. The Superiors invite you to consider donating £5.00 or £10.00 (and if possible Gift Aid your donation) in recognition of all the priests who have served in our parishes over many years. For further information on Gift Aid, one-off larger donations, or a bequest in your Will, please do not hesitate to contact Fr. Ian Jackson on 0191 586 4319. Should you wish to make a donation please place your offering in an envelope marked “NBF” and place it in one of the collections boxes at the entrances to our churches. Those with boxes of envelopes should have an envelope.

5th Sunday of Lent

Lent at Home

We are striving to reach out to everyone during Lent inviting you to engage in a “Personal Pilgrimage” in your own homes knowing that your fellow parishioners are doing the same.

It is a time to reflect and identify with Christ’s forty days of solitude in the wilderness; his personal journey to Jerusalem, then on to his death on the Cross from which he would rise to offer us the gift of the new life of the Resurrection. Our “Personal Pilgrimage” will prepare us to celebrate and enjoy that new life at Easter.

Do try to set aside some extra time each day for prayer and reflection in the “solitude” of your own home or room, knowing that we do so as a parish family and that praying apart can help to bring us together.

You may also like to “Share a Prayer” with other members of the parish, so that although we pray and read in private, we know we share our prayers with one another. Thanks to those who are sending us prayers. If you would like to share a prayer with other parishioners please email your prayers to adventcafe@icloud.com or drop them through the letterbox of St. Patrick’s presbytery by Thursday. We will produce our own prayer sheet based on the prayers that you send, which will be published on line and also included as printed copies with the Parish Newsletter in our churches.

Please let us have your prayers for Palm  Sunday by Thursday.

Becoming more fully alive in God – a thought for Lent

Lent is an old English word for spring. In the life of the Church it is a time which calls us to seek out and receive again God’s grace that we need so that we can flourish and grow and become more fully alive in God.

Often our sins, our weaknesses, frailties, anxieties and addictions entomb us – we become like Lazarus. Christ who is the ‘resurrection and the life’ calls us forth from the tomb to do some personal spring cleaning and to consider what needs changing in our lives so that charity and kindness and gentleness can replace those dry bones and dry hearts that can obscure the light of God shining within us.

So let us try, in this fifth week of Lent to take to heart the words of St Paul from the second reading read in our churches this weekend: ‘If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also through his Spirit who dwells in you.’

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.

Covid 19

Fr. Patterson is making little progress recovering from post Covid systems. He continues to be advised to rest as much as possible. He seeks your understanding and patience and remains grateful for your prayers and kind wishes.

Celebrations during the coming week.

• Monday:  No Mass
• Tuesday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church – Funeral Mass for Pat Maddison
• Wednesday: No Mass
• Thursday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre – In Thanksgiving (IW)
• Friday: No Mass
• Saturday: 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church – For the Intentions of all our parishioners
• Sunday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church – Jimmy Connolly

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:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen.

Please keep in your prayers:

• all our parishioners who are sick, housebound or in hospital and Fr John Reid, one of our retired priests, who is currently unwell
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time, especially Ken and Brida Clay, Jimmy Connolly and Brian Gilmore and,
• Pat Maddison and Thomas Conway who have died. May they rest in the peace of the Risen Lord.

Holy Week and Easter Services

As the Solemn Celebration of the Vigil of Easter takes place in St. Patrick’s Church, Fr. Patterson had hoped to be able to celebrate Mass on Easter Sunday in St. Alban’s Church. Unfortunately his slow recovery from the effects of Covid, which considerably limit his strength and energy, will prevent him from doing so.

The following services will take place in St. Patrick’s Church. 

•  A Reflection on the journey of Jesus to his crucifixion (Stations of the Cross) on Wednesday, 5th April at 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre
• The Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday (6th April) at 6pm
• The Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion on Good Friday (7th April) at 3pm
• The Solemn Celebration of the Vigil of Easter on Holy Saturday (8th April) at 6pm
•  The Mass of the Resurrection on Easter Sunday (9th April) at 10am.

In the neighbourhood

As well as Mass in St. Patrick’s on Easter Sunday at 10am, Mass will also be celebrated in St. James, Hebburn at 9.15am and in St. Aloysius, Hebburn at 11am. There is no Mass on Easter Sunday in St. Augustine’s, Leam Lane.

The Sacrament of Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church on the Feast of Christ the King (Youth Sunday) , 26th November, during the 10am Mass.

There will be an introductory evening for all those who are interested in being confirmed, along with their parents, on Friday, 12th May, in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 6.30pm.  This will be followed by a special celebration during Mass on Sunday, 28th May in St. Patrick’s Church which is the Feast of Pentecost.

Confirmation is open to young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who will be in Year 8 and above from September, 2023. Prospective candidates should be regularly attending Mass and will need to take part in a period of preparation which will be outlined at our introductory gathering on 12th May.

If you haven’t already registered to be part of the programme please email your details to the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk.

Holy Communion under Both Kinds

The Bishops’ of England and Wales have decided that, given the current situation regarding the spread of Covid and the fact that most people have had three or four vaccinations, now would be a suitable time to grant permission for the resumption of the distribution of Holy Communion under both species.

Please note that this is a permission and not a requirement. The decision as to whether or not to reintroduce this custom rests with each parish priest.

Taking into account the views of our Eucharistic Ministers from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s, who would be involved in the distribution of the Precious Blood and having to consume what remained after Holy Communion and considering the demographics of our parishes along with the high transmission rate of Covid,  Fr. Patterson does not feel it is appropriate to reintroduce this custom at the present time.

Please remember that the Doctrine of Concomitance, which we were all taught at school, affirms that Jesus is entirely present, body, blood, soul and divinity under the form of both bread and wine. It is also worth noting that Holy Communion under both kinds was only reintroduced into the Mass during the 1970s after having been discontinued in the thirteenth century.

Diocesan Review – Closing date Monday, 27th March

The investigation commissioned by the Dicastery for Bishops has issued a survey to be completed by parishioners.  This is an anonymous survey, all answers are provided in complete confidence, and you are asked to give your own individual views. 

The survey will run until Monday 27th March, 2023 and can be accessed at https://forms.gle/wevQ6zrj1t8SCxNq5 or through the Diocesan website.  Please complete the survey only once, even if you hold more than one role in the Diocese.  A paper copy of this survey, for those without internet access, is available from the sacristy after Mass.

Lenten Booklet of Reflections

The Diocesan Vicariate for Faith & Mission has produced the second booklet of Lenten reflections for this year. The reflections have been contributed by a range of clergy, religious and lay people to express the richness and variety of our Diocesan community. Unfortunately the booklet is only available online.

Love the Stranger

Last week the Bishops of England and Wales launched a booklet entitled “Love the Stranger”. It is a remarkably radical statement of Catholic Social Teaching on refugees and migrants. The booklet places the human being at the heart of our pastoral outreach, looking beyond statistics and policies to the person – each with a name, a face and a story. 

The Holy Places Collection

This collection was originally taken on Good Friday but in recent times has been taken on Palm Sunday (next Sunday, 2nd April). Should you wish to contribute to this collection, please place your offering in an envelope marked “Holy Places” and deposit it in one of the collection boxes at the entrance to our churches. Those of you with boxes of envelopes should find an envelope in your box.

Lenten Alms Appeal

The Appeal this year will help St. Cuthbert’s Care raise funds to purchase a small vehicle to be used across their two nursing homes. If you wish to support this appeal, please place your donation in an envelope marked “Lenten Alms” and place it in one of the collection boxes at the entrance to our churches.

Your Weekly Offering by Standing Order

Fr. Patterson has had several requests recently for the details required to make your weekly offering by Standing Order. They 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

You are still able to Gift Aid your offering by Standing Order. If you are not already in the Gift Aid scheme and would like to join, please email John, the Gift Aid organiser for both of our churches who will send you the necessary form. You must be a tax payer to Gift aid you contribution. John’s email is stpatrick.giftaid@outlook.com

Petitions for Lourdes

One of our parishioners will be going on pilgrimage to Lourdes in Easter week and has offered to take any prayer petitions people may wish to send to be placed in the Grotto at Lourdes. Should you wish to send a prayer petition please place it in an envelope marked “Lourdes petition” and deposit it in one of the collecting boxes at the entrances to our churches before Good Friday. Please do not put money in your envelope as these are prayer petitions not Mass offerings. Your petitions are not opened in Lourdes and are burnt after a suitable period of time.

4th Sunday of Lent

Lent at Home

We are striving to reach out to everyone during Lent inviting you to engage in a “Personal Pilgrimage” in your own homes knowing that your fellow parishioners are doing the same.

It is a time to reflect and identify with Christ’s forty days of solitude in the wilderness; his personal journey to Jerusalem, then on to his death on the Cross from which he would rise to offer us the gift of the new life of the Resurrection. Our “Personal Pilgrimage” will prepare us to celebrate and enjoy that new life at Easter.

Do try to set aside some extra time each day for prayer and reflection in the “solitude” of your own home or room, knowing that we do so as a parish family and that praying apart can help to bring us together.

You may also like to “Share a Prayer” with other members of the parish, so that although we pray and read in private, we know we share our prayers with one another. Thanks to those who are sending us prayers. If you would like to share a prayer with other parishioners please email your prayers to adventcafe@icloud.com or drop them through the letterbox of St. Patrick’s presbytery by Thursday. We will produce our own prayer sheet based on the prayers that you send, which will be published on line and also included as printed copies with the Parish Newsletter in our churches.

Please let us have your prayers for the 5th  Sunday of Lent by Thursday.

Give them something to eat – a thought for Lent

In November, 2013, Pope Francis issued his first proclamation to the Church and the world called the “Joy of the Gospel.” In it he set out his vision for a missionary Church, active in the modern world. He wrote: “My hope is that we will be moved by a fear of remaining shut up within structures which give us a false sense of security, within rules which make us harsh judges, within habits which make us feel safe, while at our door people are starving and Jesus does not tire of saying to us: ‘Give them something to eat’ (Mk 6:37).” 

Ten years later, how far have we come in making this Church a reality? How many of us still hold on to “structures which give us a false sense of security.” If our experience of Covid-19 taught us anything, it was an awareness of our vulnerability as human beings. Has it taught us to be  more compassionate and open? How much more aware are we of the vulnerability of the homeless, the lonely, those who risk their lives and drown in our seas trying only to escape tyranny and look after their families? How loudly do we proclaim that structures which allow these things to exist are wrong?

Ten years on from the proclamation of Pope Francis, the poor and “starving are still at our doors,” and Jesus is still saying to us, “give them something to eat.”

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.

Covid 19

Fr. Patterson is making slow progress recovering from post Covid systems and is advised to continue to rest as much as possible. He seeks your understanding and patience and is grateful for your prayers and kind wishes.

Celebrations during the coming week:

• Monday:  No Mass
• Tuesday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre:  John Lenehan and Elizabeth Lenehan
• Wednesday: No Mass
• Thursday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre:  Rita Short
• Friday: No Mass
• Saturday: 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church:  Brian Gilmore
• Sunday: 10am Mass 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:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen.

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 Ken and Brida Clay, Elizabeth Lenehan and John Lenehan and,
• Pat Maddison who has died. May she rest in the peace of the Risen Lord.

The Sacrament of Confirmation

Fr. Patterson is hoping to arrange the celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation later in the year in St. Patrick’s Church.

It will be open to young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who will be in Year 8 and above from September, 2023 and to any adults who may wish to receive the Sacrament. Prospective candidates should be regularly attending Mass and will need to take part in a period of preparation which will be organised in the months ahead. Please keep an eye on the Newsletter for more details. Those who may be interested, are invited to email the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk.

A Lenten Service in your Home

As there has been no response to the suggestion of offering a Lenten Reflection Service by Zoom, it will be laid to rest!

Stations of the Cross

Sixth Form students from Cardinal Hume School invite parishioners from the parishes in our Partnership to join with them in a celebration of the Stations of the Cross based on “Laudato Si” in St Peter’s Church, Low Fell onWednesday 22nd March at 7pm. Refreshments will be served afterwards.

Diocesan Review – A message from Carol Lawrence, Appointee of Archbishop McMahon

The investigation commissioned by the Dicastery for Bishops has issued a survey to be completed by parishioners.  This is an anonymous survey, all answers are provided in complete confidence, and you are asked to give your own individual views. 

The survey will run until Monday 27th March, 2023 and can be accessed at https://forms.gle/wevQ6zrj1t8SCxNq5 or through the Diocesan website.  Please complete the survey only once, even if you hold more than one role in the Diocese.  A paper copy of this survey, for those without internet access, is available from the sacristy after Mass.

Your Weekly Offering by Standing Order

Fr. Patterson has had several requests recently for the details required to make your weekly offering by Standing Order. They 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

You are still able to Gift Aid your offering by Standing Order. If you are not already in the Gift Aid scheme and would like to join, please email John, the Gift Aid organiser for both of our churches who will send you the necessary form. You must be a tax payer to Gift aid you contribution. John’s email is stpatrick.giftaid@outlook.com.

Lenten Alms Appeal

The Appeal this year will help St. Cuthbert’s Care raise funds to purchase a small vehicle to be used across their two nursing homes. If you wish to support this appeal, please place your donation in an envelope marked “Lenten Alms” and place it in one of the collection boxes at the entrance to our churches.

News from our School

The children in Year 5 will invite their parents and families for a prayer service in the school hall at 2.30pm on Friday to help us continue our Lenten journey together. They will reflect on the story of Lazarus from Sunday’s Gospel.

3rd Sunday of Lent

Lent at Home

We are striving to reach out to everyone during Lent inviting you to engage in a “Personal Pilgrimage” in your own homes knowing that your fellow parishioners are doing the same.

It is a time to reflect and identify with Christ’s forty days of solitude in the wilderness; his personal journey to Jerusalem, then on to his death on the Cross from which he would rise to offer us the gift of the new life of the Resurrection. Our “Personal Pilgrimage” will prepare us to celebrate and enjoy that new life at Easter.

Do try to set aside some extra time each day for prayer and reflection in the “solitude” of your own home or room, knowing that we do so as a parish family and that praying apart can help to bring us together.

You may also like to “Share a Prayer” with other members of the parish, so that although we pray and read in private, we know we share our prayers with one another. Thanks to those who are sending us prayers. If you would like to share a prayer with other parishioners please email your prayers to adventcafe@icloud.com or drop them through the letterbox of St. Patrick’s presbytery by Thursday. We will produce our own prayer sheet based on the prayers that you send, which will be published on line and also included as printed copies with the Parish Newsletter in our churches.

Please let us have your prayers for the 4th  Sunday of Lent by Thursday.

With God all things are possible – a thought for Lent

St Paul speaks of the three virtues of faith, hope and love, with the greatest being love; but it becomes clear that without faith there can be no genuine hope, and without these two there can be no lasting love. We are invited by God to have hope in his saving grace even when we don’t feel it is within our reach.

Both Moses and the Samaritan woman in the readings at Mass this weekend became leaders when they learned that God’s power overcomes our fragility. When we engage in an intimate relationship with Jesus, nothing can separate us from God’s love.

On our own we are powerless. With God, all things are possible, and even our poor efforts can make a difference to how the world is and will be.

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.

Covid 19

Fr. Patterson is still laid low from post Covid symptoms and has been advised to continue to rest as much as possible for the time being. He asks for your understanding and patience and continues to be grateful for your prayers and kind wishes.

Celebrations during the coming week.

• Monday:  No Mass
• Tuesday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre:  Elizabeth Pearson
• Wednesday: No Mass
• Thursday:  No Mass
• Friday: 6pm Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Carol Belton
• Saturday: 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church:  For the Intentions of all our parishioners
• Sunday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  Ken and Brida Clay

The Feast of St. Patrick

Mass will be celebrated on Friday, 17th March in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 6pm to provide an opportunity for as many parishioners as possible, especially those who work during the day, to attend. It is hoped to offer refreshments after Mass.

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:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen.

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 Ken and Brida Clay, Elizabeth Lenehan and John Lenehan and,
• Pat Maddison who has died. May she rest in the peace of the Risen Lord.

The Sacrament of Confirmation

Fr. Patterson is hoping to arrange the celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation later in the year in St. Patrick’s Church.

It will be open to young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who will be in Year 8 and above from September, 2023 and to any adults who may wish to receive the Sacrament. Prospective candidates should be regularly attending Mass and will need to take part in a period of preparation which will be organised in the months ahead. Please keep an eye on the Newsletter for more details. Those who may be interested, are invited to email the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk.

Lenten Booklet of Reflections

The Diocesan Vicariate for Faith & Mission has produced the first booklet of Lenten reflections for this year. The reflections have been contributed by a range of clergy, religious and lay people to express the richness and variety of our Diocesan community. Unfortunately the booklet is only available online.

A Lenten Service in your Home

In keeping with our “Lent at Home” and “Share a Prayer” programme, Fr. Patterson would like to explore the possibility of offering one or two Lenten Reflections by Zoom for those who find it difficult to come to Church. These services, lasting approximately 30 minutes, could be offered during the course of an afternoon or in the evening. To be able to take part you would need to have access to the internet.

If this is something you would be interested in, please email the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk during the course of the coming week to enable us to decide if it is an idea worth pursuing. Please indicated your preference for afternoon or evening.

Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons

Each week Bishop Barron offers a Sunday sermon.

Diocesan Review – A message from Carol Lawrence, Appointee of Archbishop McMahon

The investigation commissioned by the Dicastery for Bishops has issued a survey to be completed by parishioners.  This is an anonymous survey, all answers are provided in complete confidence, and you are asked to give your own individual views. 

The survey will run until Monday 27 March 2023 and can be accessed  at https://forms.gle/wevQ6zrj1t8SCxNq5 or through the Diocesan website.  Please complete the survey only once, even if you hold more than one role in the Diocese.  

Your Weekly Offering by Standing Order

Fr. Patterson has had several requests recently for the details required to make your weekly offering by Standing Order. They 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

You are still able to Gift Aid your offering by Standing Order. If you are not already in the Gift Aid scheme and would like to join, please email John, the Gift Aid organiser for both of our churches who will send you the necessary form. You must be a tax payer to Gift aid you contribution. John’s email is stpatrick.giftaid@outlook.com

News from our School

For a little treat before Mothering Sunday, all are invited to an ‘I love you café’ in the school hall on Friday 17^th March from 9am.

The children in Year 4 are inviting their parents and families for a prayer service in the school hall at 2.30pm on Friday afternoon.

2nd Sunday of Lent

Lent at Home

We are striving to reach out to everyone during Lent inviting you to engage in a “Personal Pilgrimage” in your own homes knowing that your fellow parishioners are doing the same.

It is a time to reflect and identify with Christ’s forty days of solitude in the wilderness; his personal journey to Jerusalem, then on to his death on the Cross from which he would rise to offer us the gift of the new life of the Resurrection. Our “Personal Pilgrimage” will prepare us to celebrate and enjoy that new life at Easter.

Do try to set aside some extra time each day for prayer and reflection in the “solitude” of your own home or room, knowing that we do so as a parish family and that praying apart can help to bring us together.

You may also like to “Share a Prayer” with other members of the parish, so that although we pray and read in private, we know we share our prayers with one another. Thanks to those who are sending us prayers. If you would like to share a prayer with other parishioners please email your prayers to adventcafe@icloud.com or drop them through the letterbox of St. Patrick’s presbytery by Thursday. We will produce our own prayer sheet based on the prayers that you send, which will be published on line and also included as printed copies with the Parish Newsletter in our churches.

Please let us have your prayers for the 3rd  Sunday of Lent by Thursday.

Who do you trust? – a thought for Lent

Sometimes even good things that happen to us can cause us to be fearful. We might be glad to have a new job, but worry that we might not be up to it. Parents are delighted to be expecting a baby, but nervous about the responsibilities. Even something beautiful can be overwhelming: the emotions we experience can be almost too much to bear. People climbing a mountain might experience such emotions; edging upwards on difficult terrain is something they want to do, yet it can be worrying too – they might slip and fall. And then, when they reach the top, the spectacular view evokes all kinds of powerful emotions.

Many of these experiences are about trust: do we trust ourselves to take on something and do it well? Do we trust those who have chosen us? Do we trust in God?

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.

Covid 19

Whilst no longer testing positive for Covid, Fr. Patterson continues to suffer from post Covid symptoms and has been advised to rest as much as possible for the time being. He asks for your understanding and patience and continues to be grateful for your prayers and kind wishes.

Celebrations during the coming week.

• Monday:  No Mass
• Tuesday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre:  George Armstrong
• Wednesday: No Mass
• Thursday:  10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre: Manus McDermott
• Friday: No Mass
• Saturday: 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church:  Andrew Sloan
• Sunday: 10am Mass 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:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen.

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 Bill Harland, Joan Makepeace, Manus McDermott and Andrew Sloan

The Sacrament of Confirmation

Fr. Patterson is hoping to arrange the celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation later in the year in St. Patrick’s Church.

It will be open to young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who will be in Year 8 and above from September, 2023 and to any adults who may wish to receive the Sacrament. Prospective candidates should be regularly attending Mass and will need to take part in a period of preparation which will be organised in the months ahead. Please keep an eye on the Newsletter for more details. Those who may be interested, are invited to email the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk.

Lenten Booklet of Reflections

The Diocesan Vicariate for Faith & Mission has produced the first booklet of Lenten reflections for this year. The reflections have been contributed by a range of clergy, religious and lay people to express the richness and variety of our Diocesan community. Unfortunately the booklet is only available online.

A Lenten Service in your Home

In keeping with our “Lent at Home” and “Share a Prayer” programme, Fr. Patterson would like to explore the possibility of offering one or two Lenten Reflections by Zoom for those who find it difficult to come to Church. These services, lasting approximately 30 minutes, could be offered during the course of an afternoon or in the evening. To be able to take part you would need to have access to the internet.

If this is something you would be interested in, please email the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk during the course of the coming week to enable us to decide if it is an idea worth pursuing. Please indicated your preference for afternoon or evening.

Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons

Each week Bishop Barron offers a Sunday sermon.

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.

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

News from our School

During the coming week, the Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust will be shortlisting applicants who have applied for the post of Headteacher of our school from September, 2023.

Year 2 children began our Lenten Journey in school last week, reflecting on the Sunday Gospel. This week, the children in Year 3 are inviting their parents and families for a prayer service in the school hall at 2.30pm on Friday afternoon.

One of our Year 4 pupils has asked us to mark World Kidney Day because of the support she had as a baby. We will be wearing purple to raise funds and awareness on Thursday 9^th March

1st Sunday of Lent

Lent at Home

We find ourselves in the season of Lent and as many of our parishioners struggle to come to church these days for a variety of reasons, which we fully understand and respect, they are still an important part of our parish family.

Fr. Patterson would like to reach out to everyone during Lent and invite you to engage in a “Personal Pilgrimage” in your own homes knowing that your fellow parishioners are doing the same.

It is a time for us all to reflect and identify with Christ’s forty days of solitude in the wilderness; his personal journey to Jerusalem, then on to his death on the Cross from which he would rise to offer us the gift of the new life of the Resurrection. Our “Personal Pilgrimage” will prepare us to celebrate and enjoy that new life at Easter.

Try to set aside some extra time each day for prayer and reflection in the “solitude” of your own home or room, knowing that we do so as a parish family and that praying apart can help to bring us together.

You may also like to “Share a Prayer” with other members of the parish, so that although we pray and read in private, we know we share our prayers with one another. If you would like to share a prayer with other parishioners please email your prayers to adventcafe@icloud.com or drop them through the letterbox of St. Patrick’s presbytery by Thursday of each week of Lent. We will produce our own prayer sheet based on the prayers that you send us which will be published on line and also included as printed copies with the Parish Newsletter in our churches.

Please do not include the names of individuals in your prayers, as the data protection act prevents us from publishing personal details, initials would be acceptable.

Could you try to complete a selfless act of kindness each week that interacts with someone in your family or neighbourhood as a visible sign of your wish to follow Christ. Give it some thought and perhaps make it different every week.

So it’s over to you. Pease let us have your prayers for the Second Sunday of Lent by Thursday of this week.

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.

Covid 19

Fr. Patterson is still indisposed due to Covid-19 symptoms. As such there is a modified weekly schedule printed below. Father continues to be grateful for the kind wishes, prayers and numerous offers of support he has received in recent days and looks forward to being able to rejoin you all soon.

Mass Intentions

• Monday:  No Mass
• Tuesday: 10am in St. Patrick’s parish centre:  Service of the Word with Holy Communion
• Wednesday: No Mass
• Thursday:  10am Mass in St. Patrick’s parish centre
• Friday: No Mass
• Saturday: 6pm in St. Alban’s Church:  For the Intentions of all our parishioners
• Sunday: 10am in St. Patrick’s Church:  Private Intention

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:-

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen.

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 Joan Makepeace and Andrew Sloan

A Prayer for Ukraine on the first anniversary of the invasion

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

The Sacrament of Confirmation

Fr. Patterson is hoping to arrange the celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation later in the year in St. Patrick’s Church.

It will be open to young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who will be in Year 8 and above from September, 2023 and to any adults who may wish to receive the Sacrament. Prospective candidates should be regularly attending Mass and will need to take part in a period of preparation which will be organised in the months ahead. Please keep an eye on the Newsletter for more details. Those who may be interested, are invited to email the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk.

Lenten Booklet of Reflections

The Diocesan Vicariate for Faith & Mission has produced the first booklet of Lenten reflections for this year. The reflections have been contributed by a range of clergy, religious and lay people to express the richness and variety of our Diocesan community. Unfortunately the booklet is only available online.

Friday is Family Fast Day.

Donations you may choose to make to Cafod’s Appeal will help families fighting the climate crisis and ensure that our Church network can quickly respond to emergencies, like the recent earthquake in Syria and Turkey. Envelopes are available at the entrances to both of our churches. Thanks to those who have already made donations to Cafod’s Earthquake Appeal which raised a total of £60.00 from our churches. This will be sent to Cafod following the Fast Day Appeal.

Your Weekly Offering by Standing Order

Fr. Patterson has had several requests recently for the details required to make your weekly offering by Standing Order. They are set out below:-

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

You are still able to Gift Aid your offering by Standing Order. If you are not already in the Gift Aid scheme and would like to join, please email John, the Gift Aid organiser for both of our churches who will send you the necessary form. You must be a tax payer to Gift aid you contribution. John’s email is stpatrick.giftaid@outlook.com.

Parish Social evening (17th February)

Fr. Patterson has received the following email relating to the above event:-

“We had a lovely evening last night, with lots of connection and laughter! Everyone present was very appreciative and definitely want more! On top of the food and coat donations, £170.00 was raised in cash to support the Diocesan Justice and Peace Refugee Project.”

Fr. Patterson wishes to thank those who organised the evening and those who felt able to support it.

News from our School

The Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust are advertising for a Headteacher for our school from September, 2023. For more details, please visit their site.