24th Sunday of the Year

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week:

• Saturday: (16 Sep) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (17 Sep) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s: Denis Lenehan & Margaret Lenehan 
• Tuesday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Lily Brown
• Thursday: 10am Service of the Word with Holy Communion in St. Patrick’s Church
• Saturday: (23 Sep) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (24 Sep) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Brian Quigley

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed 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 Denis Lenehan, Margaret Lenehan and Sheila Robinson and,
• Terence Barker who has died. May he rest in peace

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.

Evangelii Gaudium Sunday

This weekend we celebrate Evangelii Gaudium Sunday, formerly known as Home Mission Sunday. It is a time when we are called to be joyous in proclaiming our faith.

This year we are invited to respond to Pope Francis’ calling of a Jubilee Year to be held in 2025 with the theme Pilgrims of Hope.

The Pope has invited the whole Church to prepare for the Jubilee during the next two years through:-

Reflecting on four Constitutions of the 2nd Vatican Council, namely the Liturgy, the Word of God, the Church and its role in the modern world and deepening our prayer life, with a special focus on the Lord’s Prayer.

To support the Church in England and Wales in this important initiative the Mission Directorate of the Bishops’ Conference has produced a series of videos on the four Constitutions and a range of resources are being prepared for the Year of Prayer (2024) which include a course on the Lord’s Prayer from small groups for Lent, encouragement to try different ways of praying from the tradition of the Church.

Pope Francis calls on the Church to embark on a fundamental change of direction when it comes to evangelisation, no longer relying on past structures and actions but to read the signs of the times and act passionately in proclaiming the unique message of the Gospel that brings joy to all people who receive it with an open heart. He says: “I dream of a ‘missionary option’, that is, a missionary impulse capable of transforming everything, so that the Church’s customs, ways of doing things, times and schedules, language and structures can be suitably channelled for the evangelisation of today’s world rather than for her self-preservation.”

Financial support

There is an opportunity this weekend, for those of you who wish to make a donation to support the Mission Directorate. Simply place your donation in an envelope marked “Mission Sunday” and place it in one of the boxes at the doors of our churches. Those of you with boxes of envelopes should have an envelope in your box. However much you give, big or small, it will go directly to support this important work to bring the joy of the Gospel to all.

What do Catholics believe and why?

If you would like to know more about what Catholics believe, perhaps with a view to considering becoming a member of the Catholic Church, you may be interested in a series of talks which will take place over the coming months in St. Patrick’s parish centre on Tuesday evenings.

An information evening will take place on Tuesday, 19^th September at 7pm in St. Patrick’s parish centre, Felling. Please feel free to come along on the night for a short introduction to the programme and a chance to ask any questions you may have.

RAAC

St. Alban’s Church and presbytery are to be surveyed by the Diocese in the very near future to establish whether or not they contain RAAC as they were built during the period this concrete was being widely used. Until such time as the survey has been completed, we have been advised by the Diocese to continue using the church.

Could you lend a hand to clean St. Alban’s Church please?

If you can, please come along on Friday, 29th September, 2023 from 10am.

News from our School from Mrs Robinson

Our Head Girl and Head Boy were elected by the children last week. They would like to say:

‘We are very grateful and feel honoured to be our school’s Head Boy and Head Girl and are keen to take on this responsibility. We will help our school family follow our vision to ‘Live Life to the Full’, help everyone feel welcome in our school and help us all achieve our best. We will be calm, kind, loyal and trustworthy as we develop our skills as leaders in the school. We aim to be good listeners and will endeavour to be there for the pupils.”

Please pray for our Head Boy and Head Girl as they take on these important roles in our school.

Welcome

Please extend a warm welcome to our new Headteacher, Mrs Robinson, who will be introducing herself to us at both Masses this weekend.

The Season of Creation

The Diocesan Environment Group invites you to attend an online event to mark the Season of Creation which will take place via Zoom from 10.00 – 12.00 on Saturday, 30th September, 2023. It will provide the opportunity to hear from guest speakers about the Season of Creation and to reflect on the progress made over the last few months by the Group with updates from parishes and schools working towards the Live Simply Award. Places can be booked online.

The Sacrament of Confirmation  – Sunday, 19th November, 2023

Bishop Stephen will come to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation during Mass on Sunday, 19th November at 10am in St. Patrick’s Church. Please put the date in your diary and come along to support our young parishioners who are currently preparing to receive this special Sacrament.

The final three sessions for our young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who have expressed an interest to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation  take place on:

Monday 9th October and Monday 6th November

in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 18.30. Parents and sponsors are also welcome. In order to proceed to Confirmation, it is necessary for prospective candidates to attend all three of these sessions.

Your offerings are our sole source of income

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.  Alternatively you may consider making your offering by Standing Order the details of which are below.

For St. Alban’s: Account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 92010984

For St. Patrick’s: Account name: DHN Felling St Patrick: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 52010453 

23rd Sunday of the Year

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week.

• Saturday: (9 Sep) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (10 Sep) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Sheila Robinson
• Tuesday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Lindsay Bradley
• Thursday: 10am Funeral Service in St. Alban’s Church: Terry Barker
• Saturday: (16 Sep) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (17 Sep) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s: Denis Lenehan & Margaret Lenehan

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed 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 Maureen Johnson, Denis Lenehan, Margaret Lenehan and Sheila Robinson and,
• Terence Barker who has died. May he rest in peace.

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.

Great North Run

Please remember that the Great North Run takes place this Sunday, 10th September. You may need to allow more time to get to Mass due to the road closures.

Catholic Education Sunday

This weekend is a time of prayer for all those involved in Catholic Education in our country.

There will be an opportunity for those of you who wish to contribute towards the work of the National Catholic Education Service. Simply place your donation in an envelope marked “Catholic Education” and place it in one of the boxes at the doors of our churches. Those of you with boxes of envelopes should have an envelope in your box.

A prayer for Education Sunday

Dear Lord, we give you thanks for the gift of Catholic schools and for all those who have given their talents to educating our young people. Through the challenges they encounter each day, lead them to an ever deeper appreciation of the sacred duty to which you have called them. We pray for all those who contribute to the efficient running of our schools: support staff, kitchen staff, maintenance staff, governors and chaplains and give thanks for their hard work and dedication. We pray for all those who lead our Catholic schools, may they be people of integrity so that they can be witnesses as well as teachers. We pray that the schools they lead will become places where our young people can experience your love in their lives. We pray for our pupils, may your love strengthen and nurture them through the influence and example of those who care for them. We pray that through their time at school they will flourish and grow to discover who you have called them to be. We make this prayer through your Son, Jesus Christ, our teacher and our Lord, Amen.

News from the new headteacher of our School

Welcome back to another year of news from school. St Alban’s is once again buzzing with busy-ness as the children and staff return from their relaxing summer break. A special welcome to all our new children, their families and new members of staff. We are settling back into the routines of school life and pray that we will all be happy at school.

I look forward to meeting you at next weekend’s parish Mass in each church to introduce myself in my new role as headteacher.

Mrs M Robinson

The Sacrament of Confirmation  – Sunday, 19th November, 2023

Bishop Stephen will come to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation during Mass on Sunday, 19th November at 10am in St. Patrick’s Church. Please put the date in your diary and come along to support our young parishioners who are currently preparing to receive this special Sacrament.

The final three sessions for our young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who have expressed an interest to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation take place on:

Monday 11th September; Monday 9th October and Monday 6th November

in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 6.30pm. Parents and sponsors are also welcome. In order to proceed to Confirmation, it is necessary for prospective candidates to attend all three of these sessions.

Parish Walk – Saturday 16th September, 2023

The next parish walk is an 8.25 mile easy walk, which can be shortened by catching the bus after lunch. 

Meeting time 10.15am at Monkseaton Metro Station. 

We will be walking along the waggonway to Holy Well Dene, through the dene to Seaton Sluice and then back along the coast to Monkseaton Metro Station. There are 4 Stiles and toilets at Seaton Sluice and Whitley Bay. Lunch stop at Seaton Sluice where there are 3 pubs, a Fish and Chips Restaurant and plenty of seats if you prefer to bring your own picnic.

Your offerings are our sole source of income

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.  Alternatively you may consider making your offering by Standing Order the details of which are below.

For St. Alban’s: Account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 92010984

For St. Patrick’s: Account name: DHN Felling St Patrick: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 52010453

What do Catholics believe and why?

If you would like to know more about what Catholics believe, perhaps with a view to considering becoming a member of the Catholic Church, you may be interested in a series of talks which will take place over the coming months in St. Patrick’s parish centre on Tuesday evenings.

An information evening will take place on Tuesday, 19^th September at 7pm in St. Patrick’s parish centre, Felling. Please feel free to come along on the night for a short introduction to the programme and a chance to ask any questions you may have.

RAAC

St. Alban’s Church and presbytery are to be surveyed by the Diocese in the very near future to establish whether or not they contain RAAC as they were built during the period this concrete was being widely used. Until such time as the survey has been completed, we have been advised by the Diocese to continue using the church.

Our Lady of Fatima

The visitation of the Pilgrim Virgin statue of our Lady of Fatima and the relics of Saints Jacinta and Francisco will take place in St. Anne’s Church, Harlow Green on Saturday, 16th September, 2023. The details of the afternoon which begins at 1.30pm are posted on the church noticeboards.

Congratulations

Our prayerful good wishes go to James who, supported by his family, friends and parish family, celebrated the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist for the first time last weekend. We assure him and his family of our ongoing prayers.

22nd Sunday of the Year

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week.

• Saturday: (2 Sept) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (3 Sept) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Maurice Brown
• Tuesday: (5 Sept) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Michael Chambers
• Thursday: (7 Sept) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Gerard and Joan McCabe
• Saturday: (9 Sept) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (10 Sept) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Sheila Robinson

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed 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 Maureen Johnson, Denis Lenehan, Gerard McCabe, Margaret Lenehan and Sheila Robinson and,
• Terence Barker who has died. May he rest in peace

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.

Great North Run

Please remember that the Great North Run takes place next Sunday, 10th September. You may need to allow more time to get to Mass due to the road closures.

Think Tank

If you would like to become part of our parish “Think Tank” to explore how we might move forward as we continue to emerge from the effects of the pandemic, you would be welcome to a gathering in St. Patrick’s parish centre on Friday, 8th September at 6.30pm. So far, we have engaged in a variety of social events and parish walks, all of which have been appreciated by those who have taken part. So do come along and bring your ideas and perhaps a friend!

The Sacrament of Confirmation  – Sunday, 19th November, 2023

Bishop Stephen will come to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation during Mass on Sunday, 19th November at 10am in St. Patrick’s Church. Please put the date in your diary and come along to support our young parishioners who are currently preparing to receive this special Sacrament.

The final three sessions for our young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who have expressed an interest to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation  take place on:-

• Monday 11th September
• Monday 9th October and,
• Monday 6th November

in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 6.30pm. Parents and sponsors are also welcome. In order to proceed to Confirmation, it is necessary for prospective candidates to attend all three of these sessions.

Thank you

Fr. Patterson is very grateful for donations totalling £121.00 contributed by mourners who attended the Funeral Service of the late Margaret Flynn last Thursday. May she rest in peace and may her family find comfort in the promise of the new life of the Resurrection.

Your offerings are our sole source of income

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.  Alternatively you may consider making your offering by Standing Order the details of which are below.

For St. Alban’s: Account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 92010984

For St. Patrick’s: Account name: DHN Felling St Patrick: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 52010453

What do Catholics believe and why?

If you would like to know more about what Catholics believe, perhaps with a view to considering becoming a member of the Catholic Church, you may be interested in a series of talks which will take place over the coming months in St. Patrick’s parish centre on Tuesday evenings.

An information evening will take place on Tuesday, 19^th September at 7pm in St. Patrick’s parish centre, Felling. Please feel free to come along on the night for a short introduction to the programme and a chance to ask any questions you may have.

Catholic Education Sunday

Next weekend is a time of prayer for all those involved in Catholic Education in our country. There will be an opportunity for those of you who wish to contribute towards the work of the National Catholic Education Service. Simply place your donation in an envelope marked “Catholic Education” and place it in one of the boxes at the doors of our churches.. Those of you with boxes of envelopes should have an envelope in your box.

Our Lady of Fatima

The visitation of the Pilgrim Virgin statue of our Lady of Fatima and the relics of Saints Jacinta and Francisco will take place in St. Anne’s Church, Harlow Green on Saturday, 16th September, 2023. The details of the afternoon which begins at 1.30pm are posted on the church noticeboards.

The Season of Creation

The Diocesan Environment Group invites you to attend an online event to mark the Season of Creation which will take place via Zoom from 10am – 12 noon on Saturday, 30th September, 2023. It will provide the opportunity to hear from guest speakers about the Season of Creation and to reflect on the progress made over the last few months by the Group with updates from parishes and schools working towards the Live Simply Award. Book your place online.

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.

Returning your call

If you telephone the presbytery and there is no-one available to take your call, you may choose to leave a message. We will do all we can to return your call. However we are only able to do so if you leave your telephone number!!

For safeguarding reasons, we are unable to return anonymous calls, so please leave both your name and number for your call to be returned. For security reasons, the presbytery number is sometimes withheld for outgoing calls, so please bear this in mind if you are expecting us to return your call.

21st Sunday of the Year

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week.

• Saturday: (26 Aug) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (27 Aug) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Maureen Johnson
• Tuesday: 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: LDM Foster, Madden & Birney Family
• Thursday: 10.30am Funeral Service in St. Patrick’s Church: Margaret Flynn
• Saturday: (2 Sep) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (3 Sep) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Maurice Brown

 Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed 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 Maureen Johnson and.
• Fr. Michael Chambers (a former priest of our Diocese who died in New Zealand), Margaret Flynn and Terence Barker who have died. May they rest in peace

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.

Think Tank

If you would like to become part of our parish “Think Tank” to explore how we might move forward as we continue to emerge from the effects of the pandemic, you would be welcome to a gathering in St. Patrick’s parish centre on Friday, 8th September at 6.30pm. So far, we have engaged in a variety of social events and parish walks, all of which have been appreciated by those who have taken part. So do come along and bring your ideas and perhaps a friend!

Family Fun Day

The Friends of Felling Park and Town Centre CIO are holding a Family Fun Day event in Felling Park on August Bank Holiday Monday, 28th August 11am to 5pm.

The Sacrament of Confirmation

The final three sessions for our young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who have expressed an interest to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation later in the year will take place on :

Monday 11th September; Monday 9th October and Monday 6th November

in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 18.30. Parents and sponsors are also welcome. In order to proceed to Confirmation, it is necessary for prospective candidates to attend all three of these sessions.

Your offerings are our sole source of income

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.  Alternatively you may consider making your offering by Standing Order the details of which are below.

For St. Alban’s: Account name: DHN Pelaw St Alban: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 92010984

For St. Patrick’s: Account name: DHN Felling St Patrick: Sort code: 40-34-18 Account No: 52010453

Could I be a Deacon?

An afternoon for men who may be exploring a vocation to the Permanent Diaconate will take place at Minsteracres Retreat Centre on Saturday, 16th September from 13.30 to 16.00. This will offer an opportunity to discover what it means to be a Deacon, how to explore whether it could be the right thing for you and to ask questions of some current Deacons. In the case of married men, wives are encouraged to accompany their husbands so they can find out more as well. For more details telephone Shaun McGee on 07483 284206 or email vocationsdeacons@diocesehn.org.uk. Please get in touch by 8th September, 2023.

Retreat for young people aged 17-24

Anointing Fire Catholic Ministries, Newcastle is organising a Youth Retreat with specific focus on 17-24 year old students who are embarking on the journey to Universities and Higher Studies. The 3-day residential retreat from 8th -10th September, 2023 will be held at the Emmaus Youth Village, Consett. It will be facilitated by AFCM ministers from Birmingham.  Please register your interest at https://afcmuk.org/register/ or get in touch with Santhosh Joseph 07545-861400 or Deacon Alison Rebello 07931-136243 for more details.

‘Eucharistic Miracles of the World’ Exhibition

The Association of the Eucharist will be hosting an exhibition about Blessed Carlo Acutis and his documentation of Eucharistic Miracles from around the world. The exhibition will be held at St Joseph’s, Gateshead, NE8 1LX from Saturday 14 October to Saturday 28 October. On Saturday 14 October, Bishop Emeritus Séamus Cunningham will celebrate Mass to mark the opening of the exhibition; there will also be a guest speaker and a time of Adoration. For the remaining two weeks, the exhibition will be available to visit, for a period of time, on a daily basis. More details about the launch day and timings to follow. Event details can be found at https://bit.ly/DHNCarloAcutis

Our Lady of Fatima

The visitation of the Pilgrim Virgin statue of our Lady of Fatima and the relics of Saints Jacinta and Francisco will take place in St. Anne’s Church, Harlow Green on Saturday, 16th September, 2023. The details of the afternoon which begins at 13.30 are posted on the church noticeboards.

The Season of Creation

The Diocesan Environment Group invites you to attend an online event to mark the Season of Creation which will take place via Zoom from 10am – 12noon on Saturday, 30th September, 2023. It will provide the opportunity to hear from guest speakers about the Season of Creation and to reflect on the progress made over the last few months by the Group with updates from parishes and schools working towards the Live Simply Award. Places can be booked by clicking this link – https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/seasons-of-creation-webinar-tickets-682122455627?aff=oddtdtcreator

Home Retreat

The Benedictine monks of Ampleforth Abbey have recently released their new podcast channel “Ampleforth Abbey Podcast.” Each week a different member of the monastic community will upload a new episode of ‘Home Retreat’ in which they will offer a challenging reflection for 10 – 15 minutes. Home Retreats are offered as an opportunity to pause and reflect wherever you are. Ampleforth Abbey Podcast is available to listen to on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and Google Podcasts.

Parish Newsletter

In an attempt to reduce the cost of printing “hard copies” of the Parish Newsletter, the printed edition, which is available at the doors of both of our churches, may be a slightly abbreviated version of the one sent to parishioners by email and the on line edition. If you do not already receive your newsletter by email and would like to do so, please email the parish office at felling.stpatrick@rcdhn.org.uk and you will be added to the mailing list.

20th Sunday of the Year

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week.

• Saturday: (19 Aug) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (20 Aug) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Patsy Rafferty
• Tuesday: 10am Service of the Word with Holy Communion in St. Patrick’s Church
• Saturday: (26 Aug) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (27 Aug) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Maureen Johnson

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed 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

Afternoon Tea Party.

Join us next Saturday, 26th August for a “Forget Me Not” Afternoon Tea Party from 2pm – 4pm in St. Patrick’s parish centre

This event is open to everyone from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s, along with friends and neighbours.

Think Tank

If you would like to become part of our parish “Think Tank” to explore how we might move forward as we continue to emerge from the effects of the pandemic, you would be welcome to a gathering in St. Patrick’s parish centre on Friday, 8th September at 18.30. So far, we have engaged in a variety of social events and parish walks, all of which have been appreciated by those who have taken part. So do come along and bring your ideas and perhaps a friend!

Retreat for young people aged 17-24

Anointing Fire Catholic Ministries, Newcastle is organising a Youth Retreat with specific focus on 17-24 year old students who are embarking on the journey to Universities and Higher Studies. The 3-day residential retreat from 8th -10th September, 2023 will be held at the Emmaus Youth Village, Consett. It will be facilitated by AFCM ministers from Birmingham.  Please register your interest at https://afcmuk.org/register/ or get in touch with Santhosh Joseph 07545-861400 or Deacon Alison Rebello 07931-136243 for more details.

Rainbows Bereavement Support (GB)

……is a well-respected National Charity which supports Children and Young People who have experienced a significant loss through death, relationship breakdown or any other Adverse Childhood Experience. Volunteers are needed to join the North East Team. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer please contact Ruth Higginbottom, Rainbows North East Secretary, on 01670 518546 or rainbows.northeast@btconnect.com

19^th Sunday of the Year

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week.

• Saturday: (12 Aug) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: In Thanksgiving (St Anthony)
• Sunday:  (13 Aug) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  John and Annie Donald
• Tuesday: 12 noon Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Lavinia Henderson
• Saturday: (19 Aug) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The Parishioners Intentions
• Sunday:  (20 Aug) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  Patsy Rafferty

Tuesday, 15th August is the Feast of the Assumption. It is a Holyday on which we are all encouraged to come together to celebrate this great Feast of the Church. Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church at 12 noon – please take careful note of the time, which is to accommodate the priest who will be celebrating the Mass for us.

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed 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 Lavinia Henderson

Congratulations

Our prayerful good wishes go to Sofia who, supported by her family, friends and parish family, celebrated the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist for the first time last weekend. We assure her and her family of our ongoing prayers.

The Sacrament of Confirmation

The final three sessions for our young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who have expressed an interest to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation later in the year will take place on :

Monday 11th September; Monday 9th October and Monday 6th November

in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 18.30. Parents and sponsors are also welcome. In order to proceed to Confirmation, it is necessary for prospective candidates to attend all three of these sessions.

Think Tank

If you would like to become part of our parish “Think Tank” to explore how we might move forward as we continue to emerge from the effects of the pandemic, you would be welcome to a gathering in St. Patrick’s parish centre on Friday, 8th September at 18.30. So far, we have engaged in a variety of social events and parish walks, all of which have been appreciated by those who have taken part. So do come along and bring your ideas and perhaps a friend!

Home Retreat

The Benedictine monks of Ampleforth Abbey have recently released their new podcast channel “Ampleforth Abbey Podcast.” Each week a different member of the monastic community will upload a new episode of ‘Home Retreat’ in which they will offer a challenging reflection for 10 – 15 minutes. Home Retreats are offered as an opportunity to pause and reflect wherever you are. Ampleforth Abbey Podcast is available to listen to on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and Google Podcasts.

The Feast of the Transfiguration

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week.

• Saturday: (5 Aug) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: Susan Harland
• Sunday:  (6 Aug) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  The Parishioners’ intentions
• Tuesday: 10.00 Service of the Word with Holy Communion in St. Patrick’s Church
• Saturday: (12 Aug) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: In Thanksgiving (St Anthony)
• Sunday:  (13 Aug) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  John and Annie Donald

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed 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 and,
• Fr. Michael McKenna Who has died. His Funeral Mass will take place on 25th August in St. Mary’s Cathedral at 12.05. May he rest in peace.

The Sacrament of Confirmation

The final three sessions for our young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who have expressed an interest to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation later in the year will take place on :

• Monday 11th September at 6:30pm
• Monday 9th October at 6:30pm
• Monday 6th November at 6:30pm

in St. Patrick’s parish centre. Parents and sponsors are also welcome. In order to proceed to Confirmation, it is necessary for prospective candidates to attend all three of these sessions.

Think Tank

If you would like to become part of our parish “Think Tank” to explore how we might move forward as we continue to emerge from the effects of the pandemic, you would be welcome to a gathering in St. Patrick’s parish centre on Friday, 8th September at 6.30pm. So far, we have engaged in a variety of social events and parish walks, all of which have been appreciated by those who have taken part. So do come along and bring your ideas and perhaps a friend!

Thank you

The Little Sisters of the Poor would like to thank everyone who supported their recent Appeal in aid of replacing the passenger lifts at St Joseph’s Home (Newcastle). They are extremely grateful for your kindness. St. Alban’s parishioners donated £52.00 to the Appeal and St. Patrick’s parishioners donated £136.20.

17th Sunday of the Year

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week.

• Saturday: (29 July) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: Sarah Harrison
• Sunday:   (30 July) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church: Joan Neil
• Tuesday: (1 Aug) 10am Service of the Word with Holy Communion in St. Patrick’s Church
• Saturday: (5 Aug) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: Susan Harland
• Sunday:  (6 Aug) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  The Parishioners’ intentions

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed 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 Joan Neil and
• Fr. Michael McKenna Who has died. His Funeral Mass will take place on 25th August in St. Mary’s Cathedral at 12.05. May he rest in peace.

The Sacrament of Confirmation

The final three sessions for our young people from St. Alban’s and St. Patrick’s who have expressed an interest to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation later in the year will take place on :

• Monday 11th September
• Monday 9th October
• Monday 6th November

in St. Patrick’s parish centre at 6:30pm. Parents and sponsors are also welcome. In order to proceed to Confirmation, it is necessary for prospective candidates to attend all three of these sessions.

The Diocesan Justice and Peace Refugee Project…….

…….which supports people who are seeking asylum in our area, appeal for donations of sugar, biscuits, tinned fish in oil, tins of tomatoes, chick peas, toiletries and shampoo. If you feel able to support this project, donations may be left on the tables at the entrance to our churches. Our Third World Group have recently sent the Project a donation of £50.00 in support of their work.

Sponsored Walk

The final total raised for Cafod through the Parish Sponsored Walk on 20th May, 2023 was £290.00. Thanks to those who walked, those who organised the walk and those who felt able to sponsor the walkers.

16th Sunday of the Year

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week.

• Saturday: (22 July) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The souls in purgatory
• Sunday:   (23 July) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  Carol Belton
• Tuesday: 10am Service of the Word with Holy Communion in St. Patrick’s Church
• Saturday: (29 July) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: Sarah Harrison
• Sunday:   (30 July) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  Joan Neil

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed 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 Joan Neil and
• Fr. Michael McKenna Who has died. May he rest in the peace of the risen Lord.

A new Bishop for our Diocese

The Installation of Bishop Stephen as our new Bishop was celebrated during Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral, Newcastle on Wednesday 19th July, 2023.  As we welcome Bishop Stephen to our Diocese, we pray for him and for his ministry amongst us.

A new Head Teacher for our School

The Bishop Wilkinson Trust has appointed Mrs Maria Robinson as the Head Teacher of our school. She has been a dedicated deputy head since 2012 and has given so much to our school and parish community. We wish her well in her new role and assure her of our prayers and ongoing support.

Afternoon Tea Party

The next “Forget Me Not” Afternoon Tea Party takes place on Saturday, 29th July from 2pm – 4pm in St. Patrick’s parish centre. Parishioners, family, friends and neighbours are all welcome.

John Ingram Walk

The annual Blessed John Ingram Walk will take place this Sunday, 23rd July. It begins at 2.30pm from St Andrew’s Anglican Church, Newgate Street in Newcastle ending with an Ecumenical Service at St. Edmund’s Chapel on Gateshead High Street followed by refreshments. Non-walkers are very welcome to join at 3.30pm at St. Edmund’s Chapel.

15th Sunday of the Year

The following celebrations will take place during the coming week.

• Saturday: (15 July) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The parishioners intentions
• Sunday:   (16 July) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  Carol Belton
• Tuesday: 10am Funeral Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  Mary Nugent
• Saturday: (22 July) 6pm Mass in St. Alban’s Church: The souls in purgatory
• Sunday:   (23 July) 10am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church:  Kathleen Falconer

Mass to view on line

Mass is live streamed 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 including Fr. Michael McKenna
• all those whose memories we cherish at this time

Parish Walk – Saturday 22nd July, 2023

Why not join us with your family and friends for some gentle exercise, enjoying our wonderful coastline with great company.

The walk will be from Amble to Warkworth, a distance of 6.75 miles on pavements, easy tracks and sandy beach. We propose to have lunch at Warkworth where there are plenty of seats by the river to enjoy your own picnic, or there are pubs and a great Café Bertrams. The choice is yours.

Meeting times:

Please meet at Amble Braid carpark NE65 0GZ, just off the A1068 near Amble Marina at 10.30am (Allow about 1 hour journey time).

For more information please contact Terry Grey who will be at the back of St. Patrick‘s Church after Mass this Sunday

Bishop Stephen Wright

We warmly welcome to our Diocese Bishop Stephen Wright who will be installed as our new Bishop on Wednesday, 19th July, 2023 in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

You may feel able to say the following prayer for him:-

Lord, rock of our hearts, from a sea swept island
you sent Aidan and Cuthbert to sow your Word fruitfully throughout our Northern Land
and you inspired Bede to understand and speak your truth reflected in our lives and in our history.
Grant your servant, Stephen, whom you have called to follow them, a rich share in this heritage
– to speak your Word courageously to teach wisely and to lead with love.

(Based on a prayer composed by Monsignor Kevin Nichols 1929-2006)

Concert at Little Sisters of the Poor

The Newcastle Male Chorus will be performing a Sounds of Summer Concert in the Chapel at St Joseph’s Home Newcastle, (Little Sisters of the Poor) on Saturday 22^nd July 2023 at 7pm.  The concert is in aid of the work of the Little Sisters of the Poor in St Joseph’s Home.

Tickets are £8 (interval drink included) and are available from St Joseph’s Home – 0191 2731279.

John Ingram Walk

The annual Blessed John Ingram Walk, organised by the SVP, will take place on Sunday, 23rd July and will be led by Deacon Peter Lavery. It begins at 14.30 at St Andrew’s Anglican Church, Newgate Street in Newcastle ending with an Ecumenical Service at St. Edmund’s Chapel on Gateshead High Street followed by refreshments. Non-walkers are very welcome to join at 15.30 at St. Edmund’s Chapel.

Pauline Books and Media, Newcastle

Please note that from Monday 10th July the Cathedral bookshop will have revised opening hours: 

Monday and Tuesday Closed; 

Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10am – 4:30pm;

Saturday 9:45am – 4:00pm and Sunday 9:30 – 1:15pm.

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 who carries a bleep. Please do not contact your own parish priest who may be unable to respond due to current hospital protocols.

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.

Thank you

Fr. Patterson is grateful 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