St Simon's Parish Blog

Parish Newsletter Sunday 27th December 2009

2009-12-26T11:58:00.001Z

Parish Newsletter Sunday 27th December 2009

Parish Newsletter Sunday 6th December 2009

2009-12-05T23:13:00.001Z

Parish Newsletter Sunday 6th December 2009

Baptism Chidimna Grace Christine Njoku

2009-12-05T23:08:00.002Z

Belated congratulations to little Chidimna who was baptised last Saturday 28th November and her parents and brother pictured above together with Godparents. Once again we used the extraordinary form of the Roman Rite for the Baptism.

Parish Newsletter Sunday 8th November 2009

2009-11-07T14:24:00.001Z

Parish Newsletter Sunday 8th November 2009

Altar Servers Trip to Rome

2009-10-31T17:36:00.001Z

As mentioned earlier a group of altar servers and some of their parents went on a pilgrimage to Rome Tuesday to Thursday led by Father Stephen Boyle, the diocesan spiritual director of the Guild of St Stephen. The trip is kept at a budget price by spending just two nights but having three full days in Rome by taking the first easyJet flight out from Gatwick to Fiumicino on Tuesday morning and the last flight back on Wednesday night.

Day one consisted of a visit to the Vatican museums including the Sistine Chapel.

The group on the spiral staircase in the Vatican Museums.

This was followed by a visit to the Venerable English College for Mass celebrated by Fr Stephen. Following the Mass the rector, Mgr Nicholas Hudson who also is a priest of the Southwark Archdiocese, gave the youngsters a brief tour of the College, decribing the martyrdom of the priests who trained that the College during the reign of Elizabeth I only to return to Britain to face certain death. He recalled how, whenever news reached the College that another former-student priest had been martyred, the seminarians gathered to sing a Te Deum. He also said how a priest being executed would think of his brothers at the English College who would be singing the Te Deum when news of his martyrdom reached them.

Mgr Hudson didn't fail to remind the youngsters that in the previous reign of Mary Tudor, protestants had been killed and that we must pray that Christians never do these things to one another again.

We were very pleased to meet some of our Southwark seminarians at the Venerable English College, including Luke dePoulford who is pictured below with Wonersh seminarian Samuel Davey and Fr Stephen.

Day two took us to St Peter's for the Wednesday audience with the Pope. We were the first of the English language groups to be mentioned.

Servers awaiting the arrival of Pope Benedict.

Following a brief shopping period and a welcome lunch, it was off to St Mary Major's for Mass celebrated by me and guided tour by Fr Stephen.

Following that, an evening visit to the Collosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona. Take-away pizzas, ice creams, milk shakes, smoothies etc. were consumed en route.

An amazing event took place at the Trevi Fountains. One of our party had lost his wallet with money and NHS health card. Although we thought there probably wouldn't be any point in re-tracing steps, assuming the wallet had been taken by a pick pocket, we nevertheless went back and found that the wallet had been handed to the police who were still on duty there. We met the young man who had handed the wallet in, extremely appreciative of his honesty and integrity.

The group at the Trevi fountain.

Day three saw us getting up very early for Mass in St Peter's Basilica celebrated by Fr Stephen on the altar of Blessed John XXIII. I suggested - tongue in cheek - that it would surely be most appropriate to celebrate the Mass using the Missal which Pope John left to the Church in 1962, but that suggestion was not taken up. In the basilica, however, many priests were obviously celebrating Mass in the extraordinary form.

The Mass was followed by a visit to the grottoes of the Popes. The group then went up the cupola for fine views of Rome, followed by a short period of prayer in the by now crowded Blessed Sacrament Chapel and a tour of the basilica.

We then had a visit to the offices of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith courtesy of Mgr Patrick Burke (pictured left below) who took the group to the roof of the building for a close up view of St Peter's.

Then it was off to the catacombs of St Callistus and a slap-up lunch before returning to our hotel to collect luggage and transfer to the airport, and arrival back to London after 11pm. All tired, but having had a great trip.

Parish Newsletter Sunday 1st November 2009

2009-10-31T16:15:00.000Z

Parish Newsletter Sunday 1st November 2009

Parish Newsletter Sunday 18th October

2009-10-17T16:14:00.001+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 18th October 2009

Parish Newsletter Sunday 27th September 2009

2009-09-26T08:41:00.000+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 27th September 2009

Parish Newsletter Sunday 13th September 2009

2009-09-13T17:04:00.001+01:00

Parish Newsleter Sunday 13th September 2009

Two weddings in one day

2009-09-13T17:00:00.001+01:00

Congratulations to two couples who were married here at St Simon's yesterday:

Joanne George and John Frazier were married at a ceremony that commenced at 2pm:

The wedding of Annelize Dawkins and Able Seaman Barry Kersley took place at 3.30pm:

Congratulations to both couples. May God bless them with happy and fruitful marriages.

Baptism today

2009-08-09T18:15:00.001+01:00

Today we had the joy of celebrating the Baptism of Anthony Trevor Young Han Leney. According to the parents' and grandparents wishes it was celebrated according to the Extraordinary Form. My supply priest Fr Piotr took a few photos during the ceremony and I have put them into a video.

Congratulations to the parents, Timothy and Jeoung-Hwa who live in Korea. Anthony's grandparents Trevor and Shirley attend the extraordinary form Masses here at St Simon's and were godparents.

On the last 26th July, feast of Ss Joachim and Anne, parents of Mary, grandparents of Jesus, Pope Benedict referred to the important role that grandparents play in family life. He said that the liturgical commemoration of Ss Joachim and Anne

invites us to pray for grandparents, who, in the family, are the depositories and often witnesses of teh fundamental values of life. The educational task of grandparents is always very important, and it becomes even more so when, for various reasons, the parents are unable to provide their children with an adequate presence while they are growing up. I entrust to the protection of St Anne and St Joachim all the grandparents of the world and bestow on them a special blessing. May the Virgin Mary who - according to a beautiful iconography - learned to read the Sacred Scriptures at her mother Anne's knee, help them always to nourish their faith and hope at the sources of the Word of God.

Parish Newsletter Sunday 9th August 2009

2009-08-08T14:07:00.001+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 9th August 2009

Baptism today

2009-08-02T16:01:00.003+01:00

We congratulate Kilda and Sinarasa Antony Brown (pictured on the extreme right and left of the picture) on the baptism of their less-than-two-month-old little son Henry, who is in the arms of his godmother next to the godfather and their son Kevin. The godparents had come over from Switzerland. The Sri Lankan people have quite a diaspora. The Baptism took place immediately after the Mass at which the family had attended. Henry remained absolutely calm and quiet throughout!

Parish Newsletter Sunday 2nd August 2009

2009-08-02T09:02:00.000+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 2nd August 2009

Parish Newsletter Sunday 26th July 2009

2009-07-25T14:56:00.001+01:00

Parish Newsletter 26th July 2009

Parish Pilgrimage to Walsingham

2009-07-25T11:51:00.005+01:00

Inside the Slipper Chapel

Outside the Slipper Chapel

Last Thursday a merry band of parishioners set off at 7am for the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham, known also as England's Nazareth. You can find full details about the shrine here. We got stuck in a traffic jam caused by an accident on the A2 so although we did not make it for confessions at 11am, we still managed to arrive in good time for the 12noon Mass.

After Mass, people had their packed lunches or availed of the very good canteen in the grounds of the Catholic shrine.

Walking the Holy Mile

There followed a walk along the 'holy mile' up to the village of Little Walsingham praying the Rosary as we walked along. For those who were less able, the coach took them up the road.

Inside the Holy House at the Anglican Shrine

Statue of St Jean Marie Vianney, the Cure of Ars, at the Anglican Shrine

The journey back was without incident and we were back before 9pm.

Outside the new Catholic Church in Walsingham

Inside the new Catholic Church in Walsingham

It was a great day of fun in one another's company and prayer. Pilgrimages really do bring people together. It is so true that it's less about the destination and more about the journey. But the destination was wonderful. It was worth travelling so far to have a few hours of peace in such a beautiful place.

Inside the Russian Orthodox Church in Walsingham

Parish Newsletter Sunday 19th July

2009-07-18T12:11:00.000+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 19th July 2009

Parish Newsletter Sunday 12th July 2009

2009-07-11T11:25:00.001+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 12th July 2009

Parish Barbecue today

2009-07-05T13:39:00.004+01:00

After the 10.00am Mass, we had our Summer Barbecue. Thanks to all parishioners who organised and supported it.

Life, the gift we treasure most, yet refuse to bestow on others

2009-07-05T13:29:00.004+01:00

Thanks to a correspondent from abroad who brought my attention to this very timely article by Charles Moore of The Daily Telegraph.

Parish Newsletter Sunday 5th July 2009

2009-07-05T13:29:00.001+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 5th July 2009

Christian couple get a knock on the door for expressing their views on homosexuality

2009-06-30T19:24:00.000+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 28th June 2009

2009-06-28T16:17:00.000+01:00

Parish Newsletter 28th June 2009

Baptism today

2009-06-28T15:55:00.006+01:00

Today we congratulate Emanuelle Maria Veronica Baldwin and her parents and godparents on the occasion of her baptism.

At the request of the family the Baptism was carried out using the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite, i.e. according to the Ritual that was used before the reform of the Liturgy following the Second Vatican Council.

The Rite begins outside or at the entrance of the Church. The usual questionings are made directly to the child with the godparents answering in her name. There are many beautiful prayers over the child, but what is most striking is the exorcisms, the commands of the priest to the 'unclean spirit' to depart and remain far from the child to be baptised. These are not simply prayers to God that he might keep the devil away from the child, but actual commands made by the priest to the unclean spirit in the name of Jesus Christ. One can understand the need for preparation for such a ceremony for a priest who is in league with the 'unclean spirit' through dissolute living would not be able to give such a command to the devil. Is our newer liturgy weakened by the removal of these prayers?

After leading the child and godparents into the church reciting the Creed and Lord's Prayer, there is a further exorcism before we enter the sanctuary or baptistery, more or less telling the devil to keep out and to stay away from the child who is an image of God, called to be his holy temple.

Up to now the priest has been wearing a purple stole. Once he has anointed the child with the oil of catechumens, he changes to a white stole and all enter the baptistery/sanctuary for the renunciation of Satan and the baptism.

This is followed by the usual anointing with chrism, clothing and handing over of a lighted candle. The old ritual doesn't specify where the baptismal candle is to be lit from so we arranged for one of those mutual enrichments of the old by the new by lighting the candle from the paschal candle, as is directed in the newer ritual.

Afterwards we concsecrated Emanuelle to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and sang the Salve Regina by the statue of Our Lady.

With the parents and godparents.

And just the godparents.

Year of the Priesthood

2009-06-21T21:15:00.006+01:00

As I mentioned in my homily today Pope Benedict has declared the year from the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart 2009 (19th June) to the same Solemnity 2010 (11th June) a year of the Priesthood.

Here are various links you can refer to for more information:

Farewell to Samuel

2009-06-21T12:18:00.002+01:00

Last Tuesday we bade farewell to Seminarian Samuel Davy as he returned to St John's Seminary, Wonersh, to reflect on his experiences together with other seminarians who had been on placement. We keep Samuel and all his fellows in our prayers.

Parish Newsletter Sunday 21st June 2009

2009-06-21T09:27:00.001+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 21st June 2009

You know I asked for help

2009-06-15T20:48:00.003+01:00

In last week's newsletter I wondered if someone might volunteer to replace the lights above the altar. Well, on the eve of his departure, our seminarian Samuel Davy helped me do it myself.

We erected the scaffolding and up I went! Samuel is very keen on 'practical priesthood' lessons at the seminary. He got one today!

Happily, I was not immolated upon the Altar of Sacrifice!

Corpus Christi

2009-06-15T20:42:00.002+01:00

Yesterday, the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, we held our annual Blessed Sacrament Procession. Although it had rained during the night and the forecast was for overcast skies, the sun shone magnificently. The children who made their First Communion last Sunday led the way in front of the monstrance. Sorry, but no photos available as no one took any pictures. But see previous year to give an idea of what happens.

Afterwards there was a reception in the hall for parishioners. Here are most of our First Communion children (one or two had to be elsewheree) around the cake before tucking in.

Parish Newsletter Sunday 14th June 2009

2009-06-15T20:39:00.001+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 14th June 2009 Parish Newsletter Sunday 14th June 2009 jboyle4027

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Diocesan Priests' Gathering at Merville

2009-06-10T22:24:00.005+01:00

Because it is impossible to give a direct link to a particular post below is the post from the Archdiocesan website about the gathering I attended last week.

Merville II with the clergy of the South-West area

About sixty priests and deacons, mainly from the South-West area of our diocese, gathered with Archbishop Kevin at Merville in France from Monday, 1st June until Friday, 5th June 2009 for a week of prayer and reflection on their pastoral ministry.

Fr Timothy Radcliffe OP, former Master General of the Dominicans, led a Day of Recollection and Fr Paddy Sweeny, a priest with responsibility for the welfare of clergy in the Dublin diocese, led sessions on the practical and personal issues facing the clergy today.

Mgr Gerry Ewing and the Ongoing Formation of Priests team have organised, at the Archbishop's request, three such weeks during 2009. The first, mainly for clergy from the South-East area, was held in February and was valued by all participants. The final week will be held in October, mainly for the clergy of the Kent area.

These meetings provide a welcome opportunity for the Southwark clergy to express their unity with each other and with their Archbishop - and to enjoy each other's company.

More photos of the gathering at Merville

Father Peter Geldard offered to fly me over in his little plane. Here he is preparing to board at Rochester.

Flying over Kent:

Approaching the French coast:

Preparing the approach to Merville airfield:

Touchdown!

Father Peter disembarks.

Yours truly:

First Communions

2009-06-10T22:22:00.002+01:00

Sunday 7th June, the big day arrived. Will try and get some better photos from parishioners but this is the best that I could find on my camera.

We had a packed church and it was wonderful to have so many family and friends present at their children's first Communion.

May they persevere in their love for Jesus in the Holy Eucharist.

Parish Confirmations

2009-06-10T21:46:00.006+01:00

Last Friday, 5th June, eleven parishioners were sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit as Bishop John Hine conferred the Sacrament of Confirmation.

Here are our servers with the Bishop:

After the Mass Bishop John met the newly-confirmed and their families and signed their certificates.

The Bishop and all the newly-cofirmed:

Involving the young in collaborative ministry as they cut the cake with Bishop John.

This is my body - a pro life song in prayer

2009-06-10T21:44:00.000+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 7th June 2009

2009-06-06T17:50:00.001+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 7th June 2009 Parish Newsletter Sunday 7th June 2009 jboyle4027

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Collect for St Simon Stock

2009-05-20T15:04:00.003+01:00

Father Timothy Finigan has kindly put up a very informative post about the Collect of St Simon Stock whose feast we celebrated last Saturday.

Priest arrested at Notre Dame (aka Notre Shame)

2009-05-17T20:31:00.002+01:00

For the benefit of those few parishioners who read this blog, this is the film I referred to in my homily today.

Parish Newsletter Sunday 17th May 2009

2009-05-16T18:37:00.001+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 17th May 2009 Parish Newsletter Sunday 17th May 2009 jboyle4027

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St Simon Stock - Parish Solemnity - Missa Cantata

2009-05-16T17:03:00.010+01:00

Today we had a Sung Latin Mass in honour of our parish patron St Simon Stock. A choir of three led by Mr John Simmonds came to sing the Mass and Mr Andrew Cesana played the organ.

The photos in this post (taken by Cllr David Hurley) are displayed in the order in which they were taken.

We had a good team of servers who did very well. We are not London Oratory by any means but for a small parish in Kent I think we did extremely well.

Parishioners commented on how beautiful the Mass was. One parishioner said how the atmosphere in the church had changed simply in the way the altar had been set up. There was a clear sense of expectancy as people waited for the unfolding drama to commence. They were captivated by the ceremony.

The servers were delighted too and said they would love to serve another sung Mass. So I have decided that next Saturday's Mass in the Day with Mary will also be a sung Mass in the extraordinary form.

UPDATE: The Sisters who organise the Liturgy at the Days with Mary and who love singing the Extraordinary Form Mass have now said they cannot arrange this for next Saturday so Mass will be in the Ordinary Form. Another appropriate opportunity will be found.

A cheeky wink from one of our servers on the way out:

At the end of the Mass I enrolled a number of parishioners into the Brown Scapular. I can't think what I was pointing my finger about but I can assure everyone that, despite the look of fear on Tim's face, I was not telling him off!

My sincere thanks to all who helped organise the Mass and to all who came.

And a word to those who stayed away: The Mass - in whichever form it is validly and legitimately celebrated - is the Sacrifice of the Cross, the Mystery of our Faith. Don't walk away from it. Don't miss the opportunity to be at Mass. It was nice to see a good number of our parishioners present, but I know there were some who decided not to come because the Mass was in the older form. We would all loved to have had you celebrate our parish patronal feast with us. Clearly many appreciate the beauty of the ancient liturgy. By providing it, I am giving these people access to their spiritual birthright. I am therefore giving them something they have a right to. My own growth into love for the 'old Mass' is something that developed, from not being particularly interested to really appreciating its beauty, and this is not to denigrate in any way the 'new Mass'. I would encourage you to allow yourself some time to appreciate the extraordinary form of the Mass and to live by faith in the great Mystery that is accomplished on the altar.

Our young servers loved it, and their parents and sisters possibly had a sense of pride that their son/brother was involved in something so beautiful.

My homily for the Mass follows:
Homily for the feast of St Simon Stock 2009 Homily for the feast of St Simon Stock 2009 jboyle4027

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Raymond de Souza's visit

2009-05-15T22:41:00.004+01:00

As mentioned in previous posts (1, 2) Raymond visited on Tuesday and gave a powerful, entertaining and thought provoking talk on the Real Presence: Symbol or Reality. People came from Ashford, Rye, Faversham, Hythe, Canterbury to hear him speak. He is currently on a UK tour.

Raymond is one of those Americans (actually, he's 'Brazilian by birth, Australian by choice, Catholic by grace' but lives in the USA) who prays for the conversion of England. It's so moving to know that people in the US are praying for this country - they see it as hugely important.

To find out more about Raymond's apostolate, take a look at youtube, Knightingales Formation for Young Ladies, St Gabriel Communications.

See especially this moving movie of Archbishop Cardoso receiving the Von Galen award for his defence of human life.

Guild of St Stephen Enrolment

2009-05-15T22:27:00.005+01:00

Tracking back a bit, on Monday 4th May the annual diocesan Altar Servers' Rally took place at Aylesford.

During the Mass new members of the Guild of St Stephen were enrolled by Bishop Paul Hendricks, seen here before the start of Mass:

Three of our current Guild members waiting in St Joseph's chapel for the start of Mass:

New enrollees waiting in the Relic chapel.

Some our the servers' parents and families:

Our servers after the Mass:

Deacon John Greenwood:

Bishop Paul with the servers from Good Shepherd Church, New Addington, who served teh Mass, with their parish priest (my brother) Fr Stephen Boyle, Guild of St Stephen chaplain:

Flying over Ashford

2009-05-15T22:16:00.004+01:00

Today I went for a test flight with a fellow priest who proposes that he fly us to Merville, France, in a couple of weeks for the gathering of priests from the diocese of Southwark. So he took me on a flight from Rochester to Ashford and back. Here are a few views of our parish church and school from the air:

And the Designer Outlet:

It was my first time in a light aircraft. We flew relatively low and it was a somewhat bumpy ride due to the varying temperature of air rising from the ground. When we fly to France we'll be above the clouds so it will be much smoother. So now I'm ready for the flight to Merville.

Raymond de Souza UK tour details.

2009-05-09T22:31:00.003+01:00

Below are details of Raymond de Souza's UK tour. You'll find our parish listed for 12th May. Do come along.

SPEAKING TOUR OF THE UNITED KINGDOM

RAYMOND DE SOUZA

INTERNATIONAL CATHOLIC APOLOGIST

FROM AMERICA WITH LOVE...

FOR THE CATHOLIC TRUTH!

From May 9th to 23rd hear Raymond de Souza speaking in any of the TEN different venues in Great Britain.

Proudly brought to you by www.MediaEvangelizationMusic.org

Saturday 9^th May 2009

Westminster Cathedral Hall

“De-Christianisation, the Culture War and the Gospel of Life” at the Pro-Life, Pro-Family Conference.

To view Conference Program, Speakers’ bio and topics, please follow this link;

http://www.flionline.org/images/site_graphics/generic/brochure_s.pdf


	SUNDAY 10^th: LONDON –10:30 am St Bede’s Catholic Church 58 Thornton Rd., Clapham Park, London SW12 OLF

	MONDAY 11^th: CRAWLEY - 7:30 pm The Friary Haslett Avenue West, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 1HR

	TUESDAY 12^th: KENT - 7:30 pm St Simon Stock Catholic Church Brookfield Road, Ashford, Kent TN23 4EU

	WEDNESDAY 13^th: WEST GRINSTEAD - 7:30 pm Horsham Shrine Park Lane, West Grinstead, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 8LT

	THURSDAY 14^th (afternoon talk at 2:30pm) Burgess Hill St Wilfred’s Parish Station Road, Burgess Hill, West Sussex, RH15 9EN

	THURSDAY, 14^th: Blackfen, Kent 7:30 pm Our Lady of the Rosary Parish 330a Burnt Oak Lane, SIDCUP, Kent DA15 8LW

	FRIDAY15^th: 8:00 pm Showing of "St. Edmund Campion" film - the latest film release from Mary's Dowry Productions - at the historic Jupps Barn at English Martyrs Church in Worthing - Goring Way, Goring-by-Sea, West Sussex, BN12 4UH

	SATURDAY 16^th and SUNDAY, 17^th (Weekend Seminar): From 9:am Worthing - Goring Way, Goring-by-Sea, West Sussex, BN12 4UH

	MONDAY 18^th May: Glasgow, SCOTLAND 7:30 pm Sisters of the Gospel of Life 106 Dixon Ave, Glasgow, G42 8EL

	TUESDAY 19^th: LANCASTER DIOCESE 7:30 pm St. Annes on the Sea 2 St. Annes Road East, Lytham St. Annes, FY8 1UL

	WEDNESDAY, 20^th: Birmingham oratory VISIT TO RELICS OF CARDINAL NEWMAN

	THURSDAY, 21st: Installation of the Most Reverend Vincent Nichols as the next Archbishop of Westminster.

	FRIDAY, 22^nd: LONDON - 7:30 pm WILLESDEN GREEN Clergy House. Peter Ave., Willesden Green, London NW10 2DD

	SATURDAY, 23^rd: Brentwood, Diocesan House of Prayer, Abbotswick, Navestock Side, Brentwood CM14 5SH

If you are unable to attend any of these events, you may order Raymond's talks on CDs or DVDs from his website.

Please visit www.SaintGabriel-International.com/store for more information.

HENRY VIII:

DEFENCE OF THE SEVEN SACRAMENTS

As 400,000 Anglicans return home to Rome, the Prayer Crusade for the Conversion of England gains momentum!

The Millennium Edition of the book is available, with an inspiring 2-CD set. A Forgotten Classic Re-launched!

In his masterpiece, Henry VIII expounds on the Primacy of the Roman Pontiff and the Seven Sacraments that Jesus Christ gave to His Church for the salvation of mankind. This book is a MUST for the authentic re-unification of the baptized.

The Royal Book of Catholic apologetics

New Millennium Edition

Authored by a king – Henry VIII – Assisted by a Saint – Sir Thomas More – Acclaimed by a Pope – Leo X – Dedicated to a Queen – Elizabeth II – in memoriam of the Crusader of the 20^th century – Plinio Correa de Oliveira.

To read more, click here.

www.RaymonddeSouza.com

E-mail: Raymond@SaintGabriel.com.au * Tel (1) 570-788 5400

Raymond is the founder and director of Saint Gabriel Communications, Australia’s first international outreach set in motion to promote Catholic Apologetics; Programme Director for Portuguese-speaking countries for Human Life International (HLI); Director of the Sacred Heart Legion in the United States and program host on EWTN Global Catholic Network.

He is married to Theresa and their marriage has been blessed with eight children.

Daughters: Catherine Sienna, Theresa Christina, and Claire Jeanne d’Arc.

Sons: Dominic, Francis, Pier-Giorgio, John, and Stephan.

Meet Raymond See His Recommendations

Home About us References Saint Gabriel and EWTN New Evangelization Office
Meet Raymond Free E-books Downloads Store Links
Contact us Site Map

Parish Newsletter Sunday 10th May 2009

2009-05-09T16:50:00.001+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 10th May 2009 Parish Newsletter Sunday 10th May 2009 jboyle4027

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Parish Newsletter Sunday 3rd May 2009

2009-05-02T14:50:00.001+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 3rd May 2009 Parish Newsletter Sunday 3rd May 2009 jboyle4027

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Parish Newsletter Sunday 26th April 2009

2009-04-25T16:36:00.001+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 26th April 2009 Parish Newsletter Sunday 26th April 2009 jboyle4027

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Parish Newsletter Sunday 19th April 2009

2009-04-18T13:01:00.001+01:00

Parish Newsletter 19th April 2009 Parish Newsletter 19th April 2009 jboyle4027

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Raymond de Souza visiting St Simon's - 12th May

2009-04-16T22:20:00.002+01:00

Raymond de Souza poster

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At the Conclave that elected him Pope, Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger affirmed that “Catholics cannot remain immature in the faith”, and highlighted the need for “a Faith that gives us the measure to discern between what is true and what is false, between deceit and truth”.

The most important belief that Catholics may find difficult to explain to non-Catholics (as well as to lapsed Catholics) is the Real Presence of Our Lord Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist.

The simple evidence of the senses tells us that it is only bread and wine: texture, colour, taste, everything appears to suggest to many that when Jesus said, "This is my Body; This is My Blood" He was speaking figuratively, not literally.

And yet hundreds of millions of Roman Catholics the world over for nearly two millennia affirm that it is Jesus Christ who is present under the species of bread and wine.

How many lay Catholics are able to explain that it is reasonable to believe in this singular Mystery of the Faith in a satisfactory manner to non-Catholics and lapsed Catholics?

Come to St Simon Stock Catholic Church, Brookfield Road, Ashford, Kent at 7:30 pm Tuesday, 12th May 2009 and find out how it makes perfect sense to believe that Jesus wanted His Apostles to take it literally, not figuratively, when He consecrated bread and wine at the Last Supper. That's Logic at the Service of Faith.

Speaker: Raymond de Souza - EWTN host, international lay apologist, founder and director of Saint Gabriel Communications (Australia), Program Director for Portuguese-Speaking countries for Human Life International (HLI) and Chairman of the Sacred Heart Legion (USA). www.RaymonddeSouza.com

Agnes McNicol RIP

2009-04-16T12:17:00.003+01:00

Today we had the funeral Mass for Agnes McNicol who died on 28th March, the day before Laetare Sunday. Agnes is survived by Harry, her husband of 55 years, her children David, Stephen, Suzanna and Maria, her brothers and sisters John, Tommy, Molly and Teresa, and of course grandchildren.

Agnes was a devout Catholic, always attending Mass until she was no longer able to, and then she received Holy Communion regularly at home. She is much missed by her family.

During the Easter Octave we are full of the hope and joy of the Resurrection. Whilst not omitting to recall that we are all in need of God's mercy and that it is our duty to pray for the eternal repose of those who have died, we renew our faith and trust in the Baptism Agnes received that proceeds 'from the well of life' given 'free to anybody who is thirsty... the rightful inheritance of the one who proves victorious' and through which God becomes our God and we his children. (Rev. 21:7)

The resurrection of Lazarus is also a witness to Our Lord's humanity who wept, and also to his divinity. As Jesus said to Martha, 'if you believe you will see the glory of God.' (Jn 11:40)

For Agnes, God was very much her God, and she had firm faith. May she now be among the vicotrious who see the glory of God.

Our Church at Easter

2009-04-15T18:02:00.002+01:00

A few photos of the sanctuary taken this morning before Mass.

Homily for this year's Easter Vigil

2009-04-14T19:23:00.002+01:00

Here's the homily I have at the Easter Vigil. At the other Masses, it was adapted but with the same basic message.
Fr John's Easter Vigil Homily Fr John's Easter Vigil Homily jboyle4027

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Easter Vigil Baptism

2009-04-14T19:07:00.004+01:00

At our Easter Vigil little Titus Msoka Jnr was baptised. Congratulations to his parents Soter and Lola Titus. Soter Titus is one of our organist, and in fact was playing the organ during the Easter Vigil. Rufina and Emeka Ebenebe stood in as proxies for the Godparents Colman Titus Msoka and Aida Blanka Msoka who live in Tanzania.

Parish Newsletter Sunday 12th April 2009

2009-04-11T10:58:00.000+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 12th April 2009

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Blessing of Easter Food

2009-04-11T10:33:00.005+01:00

Our church was packed to capacity this morning for the annual ceremony of the blessing of Easter food. The custom is to bless lamb (or other meat), eggs and bread.

As well as signifying the end of the Lenten fast with the blessing of the food which is to be eaten at Easter, there is a rich symbolism to this tradition: the lambs sacrificed at the Passover and the blood placed on the lintels of the houses of the Israelites in Egypt brought about their liberation through the Exodus, and Christ is the true lamb whose sacrifice freed us from our sins; the eggs are a sign of new life through the Resurrection; the bread reminds us of the Bread of Angels, the manna with which God sustained His people through their sojourn in the desert and Christ is the Bread of Life in the Eucharist.

It is not, of course, an exclusively Polish affair although all the families who came this morning were Polish. To emphasise the fact that it is a tradition of the Church, I used the Latin blessings given in the 1925 Rituale Romanum.

Our altar rails came in very handy! And the food baskets formed a very lovely decoration of same.

I daresay the use of holy water on Holy Saturday morning is contrary to current liturgical law although the 1925 ritual specifies sprinkling after each blessing and the Polish people would certainly have felt short changed if I hadn't used it. So pastoral considerations prevailed.

Parish Newsletter Sunday 5th April 2009

2009-04-04T15:37:00.001+01:00

Parish Newsletter Sunday 5th April 2009

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Archbishop Nichols New Archbishop of Westminster

2009-04-03T15:52:00.002+01:00

Today the Holy Father appointed Archbishop Nichols as the successor of Cardinal Murphy O'Connor.

Here are videos of his first press conference and the Q&A session that followed. Let's pray for him, for the diocese of Westminster and for the Church in England & Wales.

Vincent Nichols Q&As 1st Press Conference from Catholic Westminster on Vimeo.

Parish Newsletter Sunday 29th March 2009

2009-03-28T17:21:00.000Z

Parish Newsletter Sunday 29th March 2009

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Parish Newsletter Sunday 2nd March 2009

2009-03-21T15:31:00.001Z

Parish Newsletter Sunday 22nd March 2009

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The Pope in Africa

2009-03-21T14:41:00.003Z

Given that the media in this country have completely missed the point of the Pope's visit to Africa, preferring to promote controversy over the Church's position on AIDS and condoms, here are some video news clips from the Vatican's youtube channel.

Speaking of suffering with reference to AIDS:

"I come from a country that experienced war and division because of inhumane ideologies, and I am keenly aware of dialogue as a way of overcoming conflicts."

"Fathers: be attentive to your children and your wives."

"Reveal the loving face of God to the poor."

From the BBC, you can witness the crowds at the Papal Masses
In Cameroons: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/africa/7952754.stm with a report here.

In Angola: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/7955751.stm with a report here.

Thanks from the Apostolic Nuncio

2009-03-20T12:35:00.000Z

Nuncio thanks parish for Cor Unum collection

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Parish Newsletter Sunday 15th March 2009

2009-03-14T16:19:00.001Z

Parish Newsletter Sunday 15th March 2009

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Celebrating Marriage

2009-03-08T08:59:00.005Z

Yesterday we had a Wine & Cheese evening for couples who are preparing for marriage. A number of married couples with experience of marriage ranging from 57 years to 1 year came along for what all agreed was a most enjoyable evening.

Lola and Soter Titus on the left, Margaret and David Eldridge on the right (celebrating 40 years of marriage this year) with Joanne George and John Frazier who are to be married here at St Simon's on 12th September.

Tina and Ugo Ferreira who were married here last year.

Massimo Deidda and Justyna Jaworska (with their son Oscar) who are to be married in Poland on 31st July with Tim and Maysam Shamoon.

and with Maria and Derek Swan.

John Frazier and Soter Titus.

David Eldridge with Andrew Chappell and Natalie Edy who are to be married in Horley, Surrey, on 4th September.

Lola Titus, Maureen Auchterlonie, Joanne George, Mary Boston (celebrating her 80+ birthday), Catarina Beresford, and Merrick Boston. Mary and Merrick have been married 57 years.

Justyna Jaworska with Kamila Borejsza and Mical Bednarczyk who are to be married in Poland on 12th September.

Maria (Williams) Swan, Maysam Shamoon and Derek Swan.

Margaret Eldridge (40 years married) with Tina and Ugo Ferreira (less than a year married).

We hope that yesterday's celebration is an encouragement to those preparing for marriage, that God may truly join them and keep them together till death parts them.

Please keep in your prayers three other couples preparing for marriage: Paulina Witkowska and Lukasz Wasielczyk to be married in Poland on 11th July, Agnieszka Hrabska and Grzegorz Koropczuk to be married in Poland on 15th August, and Annelize Dawkins and Barry Kersley to be married here at St Simon's on 12th September.

Parish Newsletter Sunday 8th March

2009-03-07T20:50:00.000Z

Parish Newsletter Sunday 8th March 2009

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Parish Newsletter Sunday 1st March

2009-02-28T16:59:00.000Z

Parish Newsletter Sunday 1st March 2009

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Altar Servers Day last Sunday

2009-02-21T13:55:00.005Z

Over 40 servers from various parishes (New Addington, Northfleet, Parkwood & Wigmore, Stamford Hill) came for last Sunday's afternoon for servers. With ample time for refreshments and games, there was also a powerpoint presentation about the Mass given by Father Stephen Boyle with discussion groups led by Father Ugo Nnaji MSP (who is currently holding the fort at Tenterden in Mgr Hill's absence), Fathers John and Stephen Boyle and Matthew Charlesworth SJ.

Confessions were heard before and during the evening Mass by Fathers Stephen Boyle, Ugo Nnaji MSP and Robert Copsey SOLT.

Thanks to parishioners Susan Radecka, Kenneth and Martine Standish, Thereza Baker for helping organise the refreshments and safeguarding aspects of the day, and to Dara Farrell for organising the sports.

Some photos of the day:

Parish Newsletter Sunday 22nd February

2009-02-21T13:41:00.001Z

Parish Newsletter Sunday 22nd February 2009

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Parish Newsletter Sunday 15th February

2009-02-14T15:52:00.001Z

Parish Newsletter Sunday 15th February 2009

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Blessings at Holy Communion

2009-02-09T22:45:00.002Z

Whilst going along with the custom of giving blessings to those who approach the altar rail but who are unable to receive Holy Commuion, I have always considered it somewhat anomalous. At the time of Holy Communion, there is an unavoidable distinction made between those who can receive and those who can't. In the past, the latter would stay in their places. Now they come for a blessing. However, there are some who, seeing everyone go up, simply follow and receive Holy Communion even when they shouldn't.

It seems someone has sought clarification as you will see at adoremus.org. I reproduce the contents of this clarification here. At present, I will not introduce any change in the parish but perhaps this might be the beginning of a re-evaluation of this practice, endorsed as it is by the Bishops of England & Wales, Scotland and Ireland in their teaching document One Bread One Body no. 43:

Even though some may not receive sacramental communion, all are united in some way by the Holy Spirit. The traditional idea of spiritual communion is an important one to remember and reaffirm. The invitation often given at Mass to those who may not receive sacramental communion - for example, children before their First Communion and adults who are not Catholics - to receive a 'blessing' at the moment of Communion emphasises that a deep spiritual communion is possible even when we do not share together the sacrament of the body and blood of Christ.

With all due respect to our Bishops, I feel this interpretation of Spiritual Communion is flawed. To benefit from Spiritual Communion one needs to have all the dispositions necessary for actual Sacramental Communion. Whilst approaching the altar for a blessing might be the expression of a desire for Sacramental Communion, it cannot bring about a spiritual Communion with the Body and Blood of the Lord and with those members of the Church who can fully participate in the Eucharist in this manner.

According to a letter dated 22nd November 2008 from the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments the matter is under review. And that's how I shall leave it for the present. For the present, the Congregation makes the following observations, as posted at adoremus.org:

1. The liturgical blessing of the Holy Mass is properly given to each and to all at the conclusion of the Mass, just a few moments subsequent to the distribution of Holy Communion.

2. Lay people, within the context of Holy Mass, are unable to confer blessings. These blessings, rather, are the competence of the priest (cf. Ecclesia de Mysterio, Notitiae 34 (15 Aug. 1997), art. 6, § 2; Canon 1169, § 2; and Roman Ritual De Benedictionibus (1985), n. 18).

3. Furthermore, the laying on of a hand or hands — which has its own sacramental significance, inappropriate here — by those distributing Holy Communion, in substitution for its reception, is to be explicitly discouraged.

4. The Apostolic Exhortation Familiaris Consortio n. 84, “forbids any pastor, for whatever reason to pretext even of a pastoral nature, to perform ceremonies of any kind for divorced people who remarry”. To be feared is that any form of blessing in substitution for communion would give the impression that the divorced and remarried have been returned, in some sense, to the status of Catholics in good standing.

5. In a similar way, for others who are not to be admitted to Holy Communion in accord with the norm of law, the Church’s discipline has already made clear that they should not approach Holy Communion nor receive a blessing. This would include non-Catholics and those envisaged in can. 915 (i.e., those under the penalty of excommunication or interdict, and others who obstinately persist in manifest grave sin).

As adoremus comments:

The Congregation’s clarification that extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion(always laity), cannot give sacramental blessings within Mass is very helpful; and could be especially useful to pastors in parishes where inappropriate blessings during Communion have become common.

Although the CDW letter did not mention young children, we often see little children who have not yet received first Holy Communion accompanying their parents in the Communion line, with their arms crossed over their chests — both as a signal to the minister that they are not receiving Communion, and as an expression of the child’s reverence for the Blessed Sacrament.

This reverent gesture of a young child is laudable and appropriate. But sometimes a minister (or extraordinary minister) interprets the child’s gesture as an implicit request for a special blessing as a sort of “substitute” for Communion. While the intention of blessing the child may be good, it should be made clear to all that the priest’s blessing at the conclusion of Mass includes everyone, and that there should not be separate blessings for any person during the Communion rite.

Let's see where this ends up.

Parish Newsletter Sunday 8th February 2009

2009-02-07T16:51:00.000Z

Parish Newsletter 8th February 2009

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Parish Newsletter Sunday 1st February 2009

2009-01-31T17:46:00.000Z

Parish Newsletter Sunday 1st February 2009

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Syro Malabar Catechism Classes

2009-01-31T17:24:00.003Z

If any parishioner were to ask me if they could run catechism classes for the children of the parish, they would get an unqualified 'yes'. This is what I was asked by one of our Syro Malabar people a couple of weeks ago, and here they are in action on their first Saturday evening.

This is very much the tradition in Kerala as I witnessed myself when I visited there a couple of years ago. Although the priest is involved, it is the laity who carry out the teaching of the faith.

So, if any of our Latin Catholics in the parish, whether they be from the broadly English speaking community, the Polish community, or other wish to run catechism, just let me know.

Visit of Russian Orthodox Sister

2009-01-31T16:09:00.007Z

This morning Sister Photinia, a nun from the Russian Orthodox Convent of St Elizabeth the New Martyr in Minsk, Belarus, came to speak about their work for various marginalized groups and to appeal for donations for their expanding work and church building.

From a letter I received asking if they could come:

The Convent was founded in Minsk in 1999. It grew up from the Sisterhood. Sisters of mercy have been serving disabled people at the Republican Psychiatrist Hospital, a children’s and adults’ asylum and one of the city’s hospitals.

Everything began in 1994, when the first sisters of mercy, who were parishioners of St Peter and Paul Cathedral in Minsk went to the psychiatrist hospital willing to take care of the patients. Sisters started coming to disabled people in order to share their compassion and love which they had received from the Church and its sacraments. In 1997 the construction of a church started nearby the Hospital. In 1999 first sisters of mercy took their veils.

At present over 85 nuns live in the Convent. The construction of the churches is still in process, the work carried out in the hospitals and charitable project is still growing..

We have got an estate about 30 kilometers far from Minsk where many homeless people, former prisoners, drug and alcohol addicts find shelter and work, where they have got a chance to start a new life.

We have got plenty of workshops on the premises of our Convent in which we produce candles, ceramics, paint icons, sew priests’ vestments, make embroidery, wood and metalwork. Some laic people are former patients of the hospitals who want to serve God. There is a publishing office as well in which we publish homilies, lives of saints, etc.

Sister told us that the 85 sisters in the convent range in age from 20 to 40. It is remarkable (or is it?) that this community is gaining such young vocations to a way of life that is contrary to the world and so clearly consecrated to God. In the Catholic Church this is happening in those communities that give a clear and distinctive witness to consecrated life e.g. the wearing of a religious habit, strong contemplative and community life, etc.

Sister showed me the work the brothers and sisters do in church construction and design. When I asked her what she thought about our modern Catholic church architecture, she was eloquently silent.

Take a look at their photoalbum.

Here are a few photographs of her visit, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Janet Dorey RIP

2009-01-31T15:47:00.004Z

I report belatedly the funeral of Janet Dorey, who died on 2nd January, which took place on Tuesday 20th January.

Janet and her husband Alan moved to the parish a few years ago, but from the first moment they got involved: cleaning the church, helping count the money, helping at social events, etc.

Janet had been diagnosed with cancer only recently. Before moving to Ashford, she had travelled to Lourdes with HCPT Group 16 for twelve consecutive years. She and Alan went in their first year as South Ashford parishioners but missed the last two Easters due to Janet's poor health.

Her funeral Mass was extremely well attended, not only by our own parishioners but with many visitors from the parishes of Beckenham and Beckenham Hill and members of the HCPT group referred to above, as well as many other friends. Among those present were Father David Peck, parish priest at Wimbledon Common, who travels every Easter with the group. Father David concelebrated at the Mass and led the Final Commendation. Brother Anthony Jukes, a Franciscan, was also a member of the HCPT group, and he served as Deacon at the Mass.

Janet was an extrememly thoughtful person, and this quality was manifest right to the end of her life, even leaving instructions that at the reception following the funeral, a bouncy castle should be arranged for the grandchildren who were all to be present at the Mass.

The presence of so many family - her four children with their families which have produced nine grandchildren - is always a lovely sight at funerals. The prayer uttered at their wedding that they might see their children and children's children was surely answered in the case of Alan and Janet.

Janet died aged 66. May she rest in peace.

Marriage instruction

2009-01-31T15:29:00.004Z

We have quite a number of couples preparing for marriage just now. Today, Greg and Aghi Clovis came to speak about Natural Family Planning, always an integral part of marriage prep at St Simon's. Here they are on the right discussing their powerpoint presentation with some of those present.

Greg and Aghi sought to present the natural method of deciding when and when not to have a baby and its distinct advantages, e.g. no ingestion of hormones into the female body, rendering a natural process inoperative; improved communication between husband and wife; etc.

Please keep in your prayers the following couples who are currently under preparation: Justyna and Massimo, Joanne and John, Kamila and Michał, Agnieska and Grzegorz.

I live with the very wrong decision that I made...

2009-01-26T20:05:00.004Z

Here is a testimony from a parishioner who was moved to write following the SPUC White Flower Appeal that was held here on Sunday 11th January. My thanks to Professor Tom Healy who gave the appeal.

Listening to the talk a few weeks ago about SPUC I came out of Church feeling as if a massive weight had been lifted off my shoulders when I heard the words "all those unborn babies go to heaven." I felt they were safe.

Even through my selfishness some good has come for these babies I chose not to have.

I live with the very wrong decision that I made not once but twice and wish every day that I could turn back the clock and un-do the wrong I chose to make things right for myself.

The first time I was young and had a 6mth old child and had just recovered from cervical problems and it seemed at the time to be almost justifiable. I know now that it was not.

The second time was just pure selfishness from both parties. 100% inexcusable. We already had a number of children and "this new addition" just didn't fit into our busy materialistic lives. There was no room for one more!

I laid in the bath the morning of the termination placed my hand over my flat stomach and thought "it's not too late to change my mind." But things were arranged and I tried to convince myself it was the "right" thing to do.

I had no one to ask... "Help me do what deep down I know is right, tell me it's wrong." I had no one to put their hand out to me and say ... "I'm here for you, it's going to be fine." I was alone.

I have been to confession many times since but am still tormented by the grief and the unjust choices that I made for those two tiny lives that depended totally on me.

Forgiveness has to begin with forgiving myself.

I am happy for this to be read out at Mass or passed on to SPUC in the hope that it prevents other women making the same mistakes as I have.

Amen!

Parish Newsletter Sunday 25th January 2009

2009-01-24T15:21:00.000Z

Parish Newsletter 25th January 2009

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Parish Newsletter Sunday 18th January 2009

2009-01-17T15:53:00.000Z

Parish Newsletter 18th January 2009

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What is a Plenary Indulgence?

2009-01-17T15:26:00.002Z

Next Sunday, 25th January, anyone who attends the 10.00am Mass for the Conversion of St Paul may, if properly disposed, gain a plenary indulgence. What is a plenary indulgence?

“An indulgence is a remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven, which the faithful Christian who is duly disposed gains under certain prescribed conditions through the action of the Church. As the minister of redemption, the Church dispenses and applies with authority the treasury of the satisfactions of Christ and the saints. The faithful can gain indulgences for themselves or apply them to the dead.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church. n. 1471)

Every sin entails an unhealthy attachment to creatures which must be purified either here on earth or after death in the state called Purgatory. This purification and conversion can be carried out on earth by prayer, penance, works of charity, bearing the sufferings and trials of life with patience, etc… It frees us from what is called the ‘temporal punishment’ due to sin, the time of purification in Purgatory after death.

To encourage us to carry out certain acts of piety, the Church grants us the possibility of gaining indulgences. By performing the prescribed act, provided we are properly disposed, we can gain a partial or full remission of this temporal punishment.

So, on the 25th January, by attending the 10.00am Mass, if we are truly detached and repentant of sin, purified by the Sacrament of Penance (by going to confession on or around that day), restored by Holy Communion and pray for the intention of the Holy Father, we can gain a full (plenary) remission from the purification we would need to do in purgatory. The indulgence may be obtained for our own personal benefit or we may gain it for those who have died.

Those who are unable to attend this Mass or other special liturgy for the Year of St Paul through illness or some other serious cause may gain the indulgence by joining spiritually, offering their prayers and sufferings to God.

Pope Benedict's Message for World Day of Prayer for Peace

2009-01-17T15:09:00.003Z

This World Day of Prayer is kept by the Church on 1st January but local Episcopal conferences may determine another suitable day for their local Churches. Here it is kept tomorrow, Sunday 18th January. The Pope's Message entitled Fighting Poverty to Build Peace may be found at the Vatican website.

Michael Anthony Shanny RIP

2009-01-14T12:46:00.005Z

Yesterday we had a packed church with people standing in the foyer/narthex as we celebrated the Funeral Mass for Michael Anthony Shanny who died on 19th December 2008. As well as his wife Mary and children James, Gerard and Carmel with their respective families, three of his surviving siblings (Tony was the eldest of seven children) were present and many relatives had travelled from Ireland. Before the Mass began, his grandchildren Matthew and Hannah spoke in memory of their grandfather, of his love for Irish songs and his sporting prowess. There was also read the following moving tribute from the Irish GAA.

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My homily follows:
Homily for funeral of Michael Anthony Shanny

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Our shool sings When a Child is Born

2009-01-09T16:33:00.003Z

Many thanks to Karenfor taking the trouble to point me to this. Our primary school was entered into Invicta FM Radio's Xmas factor competition. They didn't win but they were aired on the radio. Winning depends not on quality but on how many people get on line and vote as many times as they want/can during the period alloted. I was away on retreat at the time and so unable to make my crucial votes. I'm sure my votes would have made the difference!

I think the voices sound very sweet!

Then and Now

2009-01-01T13:38:00.002Z

Easter 2008

New Year's Day 2009

Our church at Christmas

2008-12-29T19:12:00.002Z

Feast of the Holy Family - weekly newsletter

2008-12-29T19:08:00.000Z

Parish Newsletter 28th December 2008

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What did the Pope really say?

2008-12-24T15:58:00.002Z

Following recent controversy in the media concerning Pope Benedict's end of year address to the Roman Curia in which he is alleged to have said that saving the world from homosexuality is more important than saving the rain forest, here is his speech in full - English translation thanks to Bishop Campbell, Co-adjutor of Lancaster.

Address to Curia Dec 2008

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The relevant section towards the end reads as follows:

Since faith in the Creator is an essential part of the Christian Credo, the Church cannot and should not confine itself to passing on the message of salvation alone. It has a responsibility for the created order and ought to make this responsibility prevail, even in public. And in so doing, it ought to safeguard not only the earth, water, and air as gifts of creation, belonging to everyone. It ought also to protect man against the destruction of himself. What is necessary is a kind of ecology of man, understood in the correct sense.

When the Church speaks of the nature of the human being as man and woman and asks that this order of creation be respected, it is not the result of an outdated metaphysic. It is a question here of faith in the Creator and of listening to the language of creation, the devaluation of which leads to the selfdestruction of man and therefore to the destruction of the same work of God. That which is often expressed and understood by the term “gender”, results finally in the self-emancipation of man from creation and from the Creator. Man wishes to act alone and to dispose ever and exclusively of that alone which concerns him. But in this way he is living contrary to the truth, he is living contrary to the Spirit Creator. The tropical forests are deserving, yes, of our protection, but man merits no less than the creature, in which there is written a message which does not mean a contradiction of our liberty, but its condition. The great Scholastic theologians have characterised matrimony, the life-long bond between man and woman, as a sacrament of creation, instituted by the Creator himself and which Christ – without modifying the message of creation – has incorporated into the history of his covenant with mankind. This forms part of the message that the Church must recover the witness in favour of the Spirit Creator present in nature in its entirety and in a particular way in the nature of man, created in the image of God. Beginning from this perspective, it would be beneficial to read again the Encyclical Humanae Vitae: the intention of Pope Paul VI was to defend love against sexuality as a consumer entity, the future as opposed to the exclusive pretext of the present, and the nature of man against its manipulation.

Photo competition

2008-12-21T20:06:00.003Z

What do you think of this photo I took just less than a year ago?

Where was it taken?

Ashford Invicta Singers Concert for Christmas

2008-12-14T23:52:00.005Z

Sunday evening a most enjoyable concert of Christmas music was provided by the Ashford Invicta Singers in our church hall. The programme was the following:

Deck the Hall (An old Welsh Carol)
From a distance (Music and Lyrics by Julie Gold)
All this time (An early English Carol, Music by William Walton)
The Boar's Head (Traditional English Carol, Arranged by Elizabeth Poston)
Guest soloist Tom Vafildis - Saxophone (Accompanied by his father Barn. Vafidis)
Sound the Trumpet (Music and Lyrics by Henry Purcell)
Selection for "Les Miserables" (Music by Claude-Michel Schonberg, Lyrics by Herbert Kretzmer and Alain Boubil)
Angels' Choir (Music and Lyrices by John Rutter)
INTERVAL
Amazing Grace (Traditional Air, Arranged by Bill Stevens)
Jingle Bells (Music and Lyrics by J Pierport, Arranged by Edgar LaMance)
Little Jack Horner (By J Michael Diack, with apologies to Handel)
O Little Town of Bethlehem (Music by Ian Hubbard, Lyrics by Bishop Phillips Brooks)
Guest soloist: Georgina Finn - Flute (Accompanied by her father Duncan Finn)
The Three Kings (Carol by Peter Cornelius, Arranged by Ivor Atkins)
Away in a Manger (Music by Alan Woods)
A Selection from "My Fair Lady" (Music by Fredrick Loewe, Lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner)
A Merry Christmas (Traditional, Arranged by Arthur Warrell)
O Come all ye Faithful (sung by all present)

Some photos from the evening:

Newsletter for Sunday 14th December (Gaudete Sunday)

2008-12-14T23:42:00.001Z

081214

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Night of Prayer

2008-12-06T00:17:00.004Z

Our Night of Prayer is in progress as I write. It began at 10.00pm with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and prayers of intercession and Consecration to the Sacred Heart. It will conclude in the morning with a Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and Mass at 6.00am. It seems somehow appropriate to have it covering the night of the First Friday and morning of the First Saturday.

The idea came from a parishioner who felt that, just as there are people working eight-hour shifts during the night, so we could do an eight-hour shift of prayer.

The intention of this Night of Prayer is "The Needs of our Parish." We might have futher "Nights of Prayer" if people request it. Those who have kept vigil in the church up to now have been delighted to have had the opportunity to pray before the Lord.

Servers Day at New Addington

2008-12-02T01:40:00.004Z

On Saturday, 22nd November 2008, The Good Shepherd, New Addington, hosted a day for altar servers led by pairsh priest Father Stephen Boyle, together with Father John Boyle and Matthew Charlesworth SJ.

Two servers from St Simon's joined about 60 servers from the Croydon Deanery and other parishes including a large group from group from St Ignatius, Stamford Hill, led by Brother Matthew.

It was an opportunity for a reunion of those who had attended the Altar Servers' Rome trip in October and 'Summertime 2008'.

A slide show of our Fatima pilgrimage.

2008-11-01T22:45:00.000Z

Compressed

Fatima: A parishioner writes on meeting Francisco's nephew

2008-10-27T21:13:00.001Z

The parish pilgrimage to Fatima was a wonderful, spiritual and uplifting experience, enjoyed by all who went. We attended mass, made the Stations of the Cross, visited shrines, basilicas and cathedrals and apart from the first day, all in warm sunshine.

We had a free day and a small group decided to visit the home of Francisco and Jacinta, as it had been closed on the day we visited the home of Lucia.

We went into the living room where there was an old gentleman sitting quietly in a corner. We said "hello" and shook his hand. He showed us the family portrait, hanging on the wall, and explained who everyone was. He told us that his own father was Francisco's brother. He was so gracious and patient answering all our questions, even though he must have been asked the same questions thousands of times before. We were allowed to take photographs, so now we have a lovely reminder of that amazing meeting.

We felt so very happy as we came away. Not only had we seen the home of Francisco and Jacinta we had also met their nephew.

Maureen

Greetings from Fatima

2008-10-23T16:10:00.005+01:00

A group of 24 of us from the parish are on pilgrimage in Fatima. We arrived on Monday evening and will depart tomorrow.

Fatima is a place of great peace but also one to which one cannot come without taking seriously the message of prayer and reparation that the Angel of Peace and Our Lady transmitted to the three shepherd children Lucia, Francisco and Jacinta.

Here's the group by the sculpture of Pope John Paul II outside the new church of the Holy Trinity.

We are staying in a very nice Casa da N. S. das Doras, a house dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows, where we have the use of a chapel for Mass and the Office, and excellent meals, all at a very reasonable price.

After morning prayer and Mass on Tuesday, we went to the museum Fatima Light and Peace for a very enlightening tour led by an American sister who managed to sum up in a very appealing and moving way the message that the three children had received, recalling that the apparitions took place in a time of darkness and war.

Our pilgrims were amazed to see the many precious objects - ranging from jewellery to a bicycle - that had been donated by pilgrims in thanksgiving for favours received. The most precious relic, of course, is the bullet which would have taken Pope John Paul's life on 13th May 1989 had Our Lady not protected him. It is contained in a precious crown that is kept in the museum.

In the afternoon we took the minitrain to Aljustrel to do the Way of the Cross and to visit the houses of the shepherd children. Unfortunately the house of Jacinta and Francisco was closed but we were able get into Lucia's house. The weather had by this time turned very very cold, and wet.

In the evening, we went to the international Rosary and procession.

Wednesday was a lighter day in the morning and the afternoon saw us on an excursion to the World Heritage monasteries of Batalha and Alcobaca, and to the lovely seaside town of Nazare.

Today is Thursday. We had Mass in the Capelhina this morning and generally a free day for all to go to Confession, do some shopping, make their own pilgrimage ... or share a drink in a very hospitable cafe-bar just near the shrine and our Casa. It is one of our pilgrim's - Peter Runciman's - 75th birthday!

I hope to up load some more photos soon.

Servers Summertime 2008

2008-09-18T22:52:00.002+01:00

Late news just in...

My brother, Father Stephen Boyle, is the diocesan chaplain to the Guild of St Stephen and every summer he organises a Servers' Summertime. Here's a photo of three of our servers who attended with Bishop Patrick Lynch, one of our auxiliary bishops in Southwark.

Welcome to Father Piotr Kaczmarek

2008-07-05T16:00:00.002+01:00

Father Peter comes from the diocese of Lowicz near Warsaw in Poland and will be residing in the parish for the months of July and August. We look forward to making him welcome during his stay. Father Peter would welcome the opportunity to get to know parishioners, so do feel free to invite him to your homes for tea/coffee/meal. If you have time to offer some English language tuition, he would be grateful for this too.

In the photo above: Father Peter with Dover Castle in the background.

(Contrary to the rumour that appears to be going around, I will not be away for the two months that Fr Peter is here, but I shall be taking the opportunity to attend some conferences, have some time for reading/study in preparation for the new term at the seminary and, hopefully, a holiday too.)

Wedding Congratulations

2008-07-05T15:55:00.002+01:00

Congratulations to Amy Cridland and Joseph Maher who were married at St Simon's last Saturday, 28th June.

First Holy Communions

2008-06-22T23:10:00.011+01:00

Today we celebrated a very joyful occasion: the reception for the first time of Holy Communion by 13 of our young parishioners.

Here's a video of some of the photos:

Just a few words of explanation: at the offertory, a tradition that I inherited when I came here 7+ years ago was that each child brings up a host in a beautifully prepared (by one of our parishioners) folded tissue 'basket' and the hosts are placed in the paten for the Offertory and Consecration, symbolising the offering of each one being made into one offering, as the grains of wheat are ground to become one loaf.

We had an enjoyable 'question and answer' in the homily which some of the children rose to.

At the end of Mass, Catarina Beresford, the children's catechist, was surprised - and embarrassed - to be presented with a token of appreciation by Tim Shamoon on behalf of the parents. Tim had - quite properly - asked my permission beforehand, but also took the opportunity of surprising me with a presenation as well. Thanks to all the parents for their kindness!

Our parish primary school head teacher Mrs Elizabeth Willis appears in one of the photographs together with Mrs Rufina Ebenebe, the school's RE co-ordinator whose son made his First Communion today, and Year 1 teacher Mrs Anya Chapman who kindly attended too.

Five of the children attend our parish primary school and two attend the other Catholic primary school in the town. The others attend community schools local to the part of Ashford they live in. I do make it a condition for reception of First Holy Communion that the children have already been attending Mass regularly on Sundays for at least a year beforehand. Sadly, few of our school families meet that expectation. It is, after all, the parents' primary right and duty to educate their children in the faith. They cannot sub-contract out this duty to the parish primary school or parish catechist. We can only assist them, not take over their responsibility.

One parishioner commented after the Mass that one of the reasons she found the Mass so beautiful was that all the children and their families were known as regulars in the parish. It was really a truly parish community celebration.

A number of the children are of Polish extraction and many Polish relatives were present at the Mass. It is good to see the Polish people playing a full and active part in the parish, in common with those from other nations and ethnic groups.

The choir, who don't appear in any of the photos, deserve a special mention. They had already sung at the 10am Mass and stayed on for the special extra Mass arranged at 12noon for the First Communions. My thanks to them for preparing so well and supporting the singing. This was particularly appreciated as there were many present who were not parishioners and who may not have been used to our repertoire, and also many from abroad who would not have been able to sing in English. It sounded throughout as if the whole congregation was participating fully.

The atmosphere of joy and gratitude was quite remarkable. Thanks be to God!

From tomorrow's parish newsletter

2008-06-21T15:02:00.000+01:00

This is my 'Desktop' article in tommorow's parish newsletter.

Forty three years ago last Friday 20th June at the tender age of seven I made my First Holy Communion at the Church of the English Martyrs, Streatham. I remember the day well: the teachers who guided us, the large group of boys and girls, the Mass, the moment I received Our Lord for the first time, the breakfast in the Church hall afterwards. Funnily enough, I don’t remember any party, and I don’t recall any of the other children having parties either. It was not the fashion then. Another thing I don’t remember is what Canon Crowley, the parish priest, said to us! (although I remember him very well). And I didn’t realise then that 20th June is the feast of St Alban, the first martyr of England.

We learn from the Ecclesiastical History of St Bede that St Alban was a still a pagan when he gave shelter to a priest who was fleeing from his persecutors. When Alban saw the holy man spending all his time in prayer and vigils, he was suddenly touched by the grace of God. He was moved to follow the priest’s example, and began to emulate his faith and devotion. In the course of time he … renounced the darkness of idolatry and wholeheartedly professed the Christian faith. Soon, however, word got out that Alban was sheltering a Christian, and when the soldiers arrived to search the house, Alban dressed himself in the priest’s clothes and gave himself up in the place of his guest and teacher. For this act of subterfuge and for refusing to offer sacrifice to idols, Alban was sentenced to be scourged and was eventually beheaded around the year 287 near the city of Verulamium, present-day St Alban’s in Hertfordshire. An abbey now stands above the site of Alban’s martyrdom.

Today 13 of our young parishioners make their First Holy Communion. I don’t expect them to remember in 43 years’ time what I will say to them today. Like dear Canon Crowley, I expect I will be pushing up the daisies by then. By happy coincidence, today too – were it not a Sunday – would be a feast of English martyrs, namely the bishop St John Fisher and the lawyer, chancellor of the realm, friend of the King, husband and father St Thomas More. These most famous of our English Martyrs resisted King Henry VIII who wanted the Pope to declare his perfectly valid marriage to Katherine of Aragon null. When the Pope refused, the King proclaimed himself head of the Church in England and required his subjects to swear an oath accepting the King’s supremacy over the Church. Because they refused, John and Thomas were beheaded in the year 1535, Thomas declaring himself the King’s good servant but God’s first.

Our Lord’s offering of Himself to us in His Body and Blood in the Eucharist and his injunction to Do this in memory of me call forth from us a corresponding offering of ourselves completely to Him, just as the martyrs Alban, John Fisher and Thomas More did. As Our Lord gave and gives His Life to us and as the martyrs were prepared to give their lives to Christ, to give a Sunday every week of our lives is not so great a sacrifice, and just think of what we get in return: the God Who made us dwells in our bodies and in our souls. I pray that our young people today will always remember the day of their First Communion and that they will give their lives, day by day, completely to Our Lord Jesus and His Holy Church. May God bless them, their families and all of us this week.

Wedding Congratulations

2008-06-08T17:10:00.002+01:00

Congratulations to Hugo Ferreira and Tina Brigden who sealed their love for each other in the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony last Saturday (31st May) here at St Simon’s. It was a very simple ceremony, attended by the parents of the bride and groom, Hugo’s brother and a friend, and a young married couple and their little son who acted as page boy, the wife (expecting their second child) being a long time friend of Tina’s. Whilst many like a grand celebration, the simplicity of last Saturday’s wedding (followed by a nice meal at a Portuguese restaurant in Maidstone) provided all the more opportunity for focussing on the essentials of matrimony: the Sacrament that comes into existence through the exchange of consent in the presence of the Church’s minister and those called to be witnesses. Thanks to “Maison des Fleurs” (aka Anne Bulpin – 624489) for the lovely flower arrangements and to Charlotte Coles for providing beautiful music on the organ at the entrance, signing of the register and exit.

Corpus Christi Procession

2008-05-25T16:24:00.004+01:00

What was forecast:

What we got:
And so our procession went ahead after the 10.00am Mass this morning. Click of the picture for a slideshow.
It's a pdf slide show. Once you have downloaded (3MB) use direction arrows to view each picture.