Parish Events pre 2019
2018
Skydive raised £6,090 for Lourdes Pilgrimage Fund
Bishop Richard Moth and Lucy Barnes raised a magnificent £6,090 - double their target of £3,000! Both landed safely after skydiving from 15,000 feet on Friday 14th September 2018 for the Lourdes Pilgrimage Fund. Bishop Richard said "It requires you to trust in the person you are in tandem with and in the equipment. The staff, however, are very professional and looked after us really well."
Lucy Barnes said "It was very cold at 15,000 feet and the one minute of freefall made my head spin, but then the gently drifting down with the parachute open was fantastic as you could see everything around you."
They did it on behalf of the Lourdes Pilgrimage Fund to send sick and needy pilgrims to Lourdes. When asked if they would do it again, Bishop Richard gave a hesitant "I might" and Lucy said "I would not go up again and am glad to be back on earth, and feeling so much better after fish and chips, and a gin and tonic!"
Lucy Barnes said "It was very cold at 15,000 feet and the one minute of freefall made my head spin, but then the gently drifting down with the parachute open was fantastic as you could see everything around you."
They did it on behalf of the Lourdes Pilgrimage Fund to send sick and needy pilgrims to Lourdes. When asked if they would do it again, Bishop Richard gave a hesitant "I might" and Lucy said "I would not go up again and am glad to be back on earth, and feeling so much better after fish and chips, and a gin and tonic!"
Ann and Arthur Watson Diamond Wedding Anniversary
On Thursday 9 August 2018, Ann and Arthur Watson – parishioners here for 17 years - celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. At the Mass, which was attended by many friends and well-wishers, Fr Carl gave thanks for their life together and blessed their union.
Afterwards over twenty parishioners joined Ann and Arthur in the Parish Centre for celebratory coffee and cake. Besides the cards and balloons, those there were treated to a view of photos of their wedding back in 1958. Unusually for the time, these were in colour. They had been taken by Ann’s brother, while the official photographer was still producing them in black and white!
Afterwards over twenty parishioners joined Ann and Arthur in the Parish Centre for celebratory coffee and cake. Besides the cards and balloons, those there were treated to a view of photos of their wedding back in 1958. Unusually for the time, these were in colour. They had been taken by Ann’s brother, while the official photographer was still producing them in black and white!
2017
Churches Together Pentecost Service 2017
Well over 100 people from all the Littlehampton churches attended a Joint Pentecost Service at St Catherine’s, one of three such Services held each year in different churches in the town. Ministers and representatives of each of the Churches led the prayers and gave the readings.
Most people stayed afterwards for refreshments in the Hall – a great opportunity for the different congregations to meet each other.
Well over 100 people from all the Littlehampton churches attended a Joint Pentecost Service at St Catherine’s, one of three such Services held each year in different churches in the town. Ministers and representatives of each of the Churches led the prayers and gave the readings.
Most people stayed afterwards for refreshments in the Hall – a great opportunity for the different congregations to meet each other.
Knights of the Holy Sepulchre
On Saturday 29 April 2017, Mass was celebrated at St Catherine’s for the intentions of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. The Celebrant was Fr Gerard Hetherington KCHS, a Knight Commander of the Order. More than two dozen Members from the Southern Section of the Lieutenancy of England and Wales processed into the church – the Knights resplendent in their white capes, the Dames in their black ones, and all wearing their appropriate decorations.
Along with the Knights of Malta, the Order of the Holy Sepulchre are the only orders of chivalry to be recognised by the Vatican. The Order has more than 30,000 members in 60 “Lieutenancies” spread over 40 countries. Its purpose is to assist the Church in the Holy Land as well as Christians living there.
Coincidentally, during this Eastertide and for the first time, the St Joseph’s Chapel displayed a large and realistic sepulchre (with its stone door rolled away), created by Polish members of our congregation.
On Saturday 29 April 2017, Mass was celebrated at St Catherine’s for the intentions of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. The Celebrant was Fr Gerard Hetherington KCHS, a Knight Commander of the Order. More than two dozen Members from the Southern Section of the Lieutenancy of England and Wales processed into the church – the Knights resplendent in their white capes, the Dames in their black ones, and all wearing their appropriate decorations.
Along with the Knights of Malta, the Order of the Holy Sepulchre are the only orders of chivalry to be recognised by the Vatican. The Order has more than 30,000 members in 60 “Lieutenancies” spread over 40 countries. Its purpose is to assist the Church in the Holy Land as well as Christians living there.
Coincidentally, during this Eastertide and for the first time, the St Joseph’s Chapel displayed a large and realistic sepulchre (with its stone door rolled away), created by Polish members of our congregation.
Farewell to Eileen Kates
On Thursday 23 February 2017 we said Farewell to Eileen Kates with a Mass for her intentions and a party. Eileen has been a parishioner at St Catherine’s for 70 years and – like so many others of her generation – active in parish life for most of that time, but she is shortly moving to Yorkshire to be nearer her family. About 30 parishioners attended the occasion, including Fr Albert.
The party included a cake. Its arrival was signalled by the sounding of a nearby smoke alarm, as the celebratory candles were inadvertently lit underneath it. A poem about Eileen’s life was read by Penny Gregory and Fr Dominic gave a short address. He reminded us that priests come and go, but it is the parishioners who carry Christ to others in Littlehampton over a much longer period. Eileen has known eight parish priests at St Catherine’s !
After Mass the following Sunday, attempts were made to take a group photograph outside the church door, but it was so cold and windy that few were able to stand there for any length of time. As a result several photographs were taken.
On Thursday 23 February 2017 we said Farewell to Eileen Kates with a Mass for her intentions and a party. Eileen has been a parishioner at St Catherine’s for 70 years and – like so many others of her generation – active in parish life for most of that time, but she is shortly moving to Yorkshire to be nearer her family. About 30 parishioners attended the occasion, including Fr Albert.
The party included a cake. Its arrival was signalled by the sounding of a nearby smoke alarm, as the celebratory candles were inadvertently lit underneath it. A poem about Eileen’s life was read by Penny Gregory and Fr Dominic gave a short address. He reminded us that priests come and go, but it is the parishioners who carry Christ to others in Littlehampton over a much longer period. Eileen has known eight parish priests at St Catherine’s !
After Mass the following Sunday, attempts were made to take a group photograph outside the church door, but it was so cold and windy that few were able to stand there for any length of time. As a result several photographs were taken.
2016
Bishop Richard's Visit
On the weekend of 13-14 February 2016, the Rt Rev Bishop Richard Moth visited our two parishes of St. Joseph’s and St. Catherine’s. Bishops try to visit as many of their parishes as possible each year, although this year Bishop Richard will have time to inspect only about a dozen or so of the 104 parishes in Sussex and Surrey that are in his care. Despite only being installed as Bishop of A & B last May, he has already visited St Catherine’s church in Littlehampton twice. The first time was last October to deliver a talk on Marriage and the Family in the Littlehampton Lectures series.
Besides saying Mass in Littlehampton and Rustington over the weekend and meeting both Parish Pastoral Councils, Bishop Richard also presided on Sunday at a Sung Mass at St Catherine’s, processing into the church behind the drums and umbrellas of the Keralan Community. The South Indian flavour was followed by a Curry Lunch enjoyed by people from both parishes as well as by Bishop Richard. In fact, after a second helping he jokingly appointed the cooks as ‘Curry Makers to the Bishop’. His Visitation ended with Afternoon Tea at St Joseph’s Rustington.
On the weekend of 13-14 February 2016, the Rt Rev Bishop Richard Moth visited our two parishes of St. Joseph’s and St. Catherine’s. Bishops try to visit as many of their parishes as possible each year, although this year Bishop Richard will have time to inspect only about a dozen or so of the 104 parishes in Sussex and Surrey that are in his care. Despite only being installed as Bishop of A & B last May, he has already visited St Catherine’s church in Littlehampton twice. The first time was last October to deliver a talk on Marriage and the Family in the Littlehampton Lectures series.
Besides saying Mass in Littlehampton and Rustington over the weekend and meeting both Parish Pastoral Councils, Bishop Richard also presided on Sunday at a Sung Mass at St Catherine’s, processing into the church behind the drums and umbrellas of the Keralan Community. The South Indian flavour was followed by a Curry Lunch enjoyed by people from both parishes as well as by Bishop Richard. In fact, after a second helping he jokingly appointed the cooks as ‘Curry Makers to the Bishop’. His Visitation ended with Afternoon Tea at St Joseph’s Rustington.
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The short video shows the arrival at the 11 am Mass, of Bishop Richard and Father Dominic, in procession with some of our Keralan parishioners.
Quiz Night
On Saturday 31 January 2016 more than 40 people attended what it is hoped will be the first of many quiz evenings in the Parish Centre. A substantial supper halfway though the evening helped the eight teams taking part to answer the questions of the second half with increased vigour. Half of the teams had very similar scores at the end, so for the winners it was a close-run thing. All those who had taken part thanked Paul Peppard, the quiz-master and organiser of the event, for what had been a very enjoyable evening.
On Saturday 31 January 2016 more than 40 people attended what it is hoped will be the first of many quiz evenings in the Parish Centre. A substantial supper halfway though the evening helped the eight teams taking part to answer the questions of the second half with increased vigour. Half of the teams had very similar scores at the end, so for the winners it was a close-run thing. All those who had taken part thanked Paul Peppard, the quiz-master and organiser of the event, for what had been a very enjoyable evening.
2015
Charity Fish & Chip Supper Fund-raiser for St Barnabas
On Sunday 21 June 2015, after the 11am Mass, Fr Dominic presented Neil Francis from St Barnabas House Hospice, with a cheque for the £1500 raised at the recent benefit supper.
On Sunday 21 June 2015, after the 11am Mass, Fr Dominic presented Neil Francis from St Barnabas House Hospice, with a cheque for the £1500 raised at the recent benefit supper.
Charity Fish & Chip Supper Fund-raiser for St Barnabas
Vying with the FA Cup Final for parishioners’ attention, a Charity Fish & Chip Supper was held in the Parish Centre on Saturday 30 May 2015. 120 people attended and raised £1500 for St Barnabas House Hospice.
The after-supper entertainment was led by former parishioner and comedian from talkSPORT and the Edinburgh Fringe, Mike Shephard. Mike has a close connection with the Hospice, since his mother Stephanie recently spent her last weeks in their care. The evening also featured an account of the work of St Barnabas House and its development from Neil Francis, with emphasis on the care and support provided by the new Hospice at Home Team. Thanks are due to Chris and Margaret Rota and to Kate and Paul Peppard, who organised what turned out to be a most enjoyable evening.
Vying with the FA Cup Final for parishioners’ attention, a Charity Fish & Chip Supper was held in the Parish Centre on Saturday 30 May 2015. 120 people attended and raised £1500 for St Barnabas House Hospice.
The after-supper entertainment was led by former parishioner and comedian from talkSPORT and the Edinburgh Fringe, Mike Shephard. Mike has a close connection with the Hospice, since his mother Stephanie recently spent her last weeks in their care. The evening also featured an account of the work of St Barnabas House and its development from Neil Francis, with emphasis on the care and support provided by the new Hospice at Home Team. Thanks are due to Chris and Margaret Rota and to Kate and Paul Peppard, who organised what turned out to be a most enjoyable evening.
Our New Bishop
Pope Francis has appointed Bishop Richard Moth, previously Bishop of the Forces, as the fifth Bishop of Arundel & Brighton.
He was installed as Bishop on 28 May 2015, the date which marked the 50th Anniversary of the Foundation of the Diocese.
Pope Francis has appointed Bishop Richard Moth, previously Bishop of the Forces, as the fifth Bishop of Arundel & Brighton.
He was installed as Bishop on 28 May 2015, the date which marked the 50th Anniversary of the Foundation of the Diocese.
2014
2014 Christmas Bazaar and Nativity Exhibition
The parish Christmas Bazaar and the 6th Annual Nativity Exhibition were held in the parish centre on 30 November 2014, the Nativity Exhibition was also open on the 1 December after Mass. The event was a great success; in addition to the usual stalls, entertainment was provided by the Sparkles children's variety group. More than 100 different nativity scenes from around the world were on display. Father Christmas also made a guest appearance. Fun was had by all who attended. Thank you to everyone who helped out in any way, and to those people who came and supported us; we raised an incredible £1,211.39, many thanks to all involved.
A small selection of photos are displayed below, taken by Mike Shephard.
The parish Christmas Bazaar and the 6th Annual Nativity Exhibition were held in the parish centre on 30 November 2014, the Nativity Exhibition was also open on the 1 December after Mass. The event was a great success; in addition to the usual stalls, entertainment was provided by the Sparkles children's variety group. More than 100 different nativity scenes from around the world were on display. Father Christmas also made a guest appearance. Fun was had by all who attended. Thank you to everyone who helped out in any way, and to those people who came and supported us; we raised an incredible £1,211.39, many thanks to all involved.
A small selection of photos are displayed below, taken by Mike Shephard.
Sr Anastasia Farewell Dinner
On October 23rd 2014 we said farewell to Sr Anastasia at a dinner held in her honour at St Catherine’s Parish Centre. The evening was attended by over 100 people from St Joseph’s Franciscan Convent, St Catherine’s and other churches in the town.
Sr Anastasia McGonagle has spent the last 22 years in Littlehampton, working in St Francis Nursing Home and at the Convent. She came to us from Bradford, where she had spent the previous two decades teaching in a Catholic Middle School.
While here, Sr Anastasia has been a leading light in the local Catholic community and for the last three years has been our Parish Sister, as well as a steadfast supporter of Littlehampton Churches Together and the Redeeming Our Communities (ROC) Scheme. She has also (Amazingly?) produced musicals here, including in the last 18 months both Joseph and a variety show, and was set to produce Snow White with a Difference next spring.
A native of Donegal, she has now moved back to Ireland to work at the Order’s convent in the pilgrimage village of Knock in County Mayo.
On October 23rd 2014 we said farewell to Sr Anastasia at a dinner held in her honour at St Catherine’s Parish Centre. The evening was attended by over 100 people from St Joseph’s Franciscan Convent, St Catherine’s and other churches in the town.
Sr Anastasia McGonagle has spent the last 22 years in Littlehampton, working in St Francis Nursing Home and at the Convent. She came to us from Bradford, where she had spent the previous two decades teaching in a Catholic Middle School.
While here, Sr Anastasia has been a leading light in the local Catholic community and for the last three years has been our Parish Sister, as well as a steadfast supporter of Littlehampton Churches Together and the Redeeming Our Communities (ROC) Scheme. She has also (Amazingly?) produced musicals here, including in the last 18 months both Joseph and a variety show, and was set to produce Snow White with a Difference next spring.
A native of Donegal, she has now moved back to Ireland to work at the Order’s convent in the pilgrimage village of Knock in County Mayo.
2013
Christmas Bazaar and Nativity Exhibition
The parish Christmas Bazaar and Nativity Exhibition which was held in the parish centre on 30 November 2013 was a great success. Fun was had by all who attended. Thank you to everyone who helped out in any way, and to those people who came and supported us. We raised an incredible £1,364.23, many, many thanks to all involved.
The pictures below capture the atmosphere; many thanks to Emma Storey for these images http://storeyimage.weebly.com
The parish Christmas Bazaar and Nativity Exhibition which was held in the parish centre on 30 November 2013 was a great success. Fun was had by all who attended. Thank you to everyone who helped out in any way, and to those people who came and supported us. We raised an incredible £1,364.23, many, many thanks to all involved.
The pictures below capture the atmosphere; many thanks to Emma Storey for these images http://storeyimage.weebly.com
The Blessing of First Foods and Easter Eggs
By Magdalena Pokorowska
This is a
custom in many Catholic countries. It is
a tradition to have a basket of food blessed on Holy Saturday or Easter Sunday. Families bring along a little Easter basket
which contains meat, butter, sugar and eggs, to be blessed. This service took place in St Catherine's church, on Saturday 30 March 2013, at 11.15am.
In Poland, the practice of blessing the Easter basket dates back to the 15th century or earlier, and it is one which is still maintained by most families on Holy Saturday.
The food items in the Easter basket are eaten during Easter Sunday breakfast. Every member of the family has a bite of all the blessed foods. Each item of food has a special significance. The white napkin that lines the basket represents the shroud of Christ. The lamb in butter, sugar, dough, wood or even plastic stands for Jesus, the Paschal lamb. The hard boiled eggs symbolise new life and Christ rising from his tomb. Bread represents the bread of life given by God. Meat and sausages are symbols of the resurrected Christ. Horseradish represents accepting the bitter with the sweet in life. Vinegar symbolises the sour wine given to Jesus on the cross. Salt is to add zest to life and preserve us from corruption. The sweets suggest the promise of eternal life or good things to come.
In Poland, the practice of blessing the Easter basket dates back to the 15th century or earlier, and it is one which is still maintained by most families on Holy Saturday.
The food items in the Easter basket are eaten during Easter Sunday breakfast. Every member of the family has a bite of all the blessed foods. Each item of food has a special significance. The white napkin that lines the basket represents the shroud of Christ. The lamb in butter, sugar, dough, wood or even plastic stands for Jesus, the Paschal lamb. The hard boiled eggs symbolise new life and Christ rising from his tomb. Bread represents the bread of life given by God. Meat and sausages are symbols of the resurrected Christ. Horseradish represents accepting the bitter with the sweet in life. Vinegar symbolises the sour wine given to Jesus on the cross. Salt is to add zest to life and preserve us from corruption. The sweets suggest the promise of eternal life or good things to come.
Littlehampton and Rustington Parishes welcome Pope Francis
Littlehampton and Rustington Parishes jointly celebrated the election of the new Pope. Pope Francis, Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Buenos Aires. We had been advised by Fr Dominic that once the election of the new Pope had been announced we would celebrate.
An announcement was issued - Invitation to Holy Mass at 7.00pm Thursday evening 14 March 2013 followed by Champagne and a "Bring a plate to share" meal at St Catherine's Priests House.
The bush telegraph acted quickly. A large throng of parishioners from St Joseph’s, Rustington and St Catherine’s, Littlehampton gathered together for the special thanksgiving Mass.
After the Mass Fr Dominic invited everyone present to join him in the Priest’s House for a glass of champagne and some of his homemade ‘Argentinian’ pork and bean casserole. However, there was a price to pay! Guests must speak to at least three people they did not know and introduce themselves to each other. This proved a very good way of breaking the ice and a fun way to get to know one another.
The shared table of food had grown into a banquet and the Argentinian casserole was delicious. There was enough champagne for everyone and soft drinks for those who had given up alcohol for Lent. A great social evening was had by all. It was a privilege to be part of such an event. Our thanks must go to Fr Dominic for being the perfect host and organising the event at such short notice.
Production of Joseph and the Technicolour Dreamcoat
Sister Anastasia would like to say a special thank you to All THE CAST: ALL THE HELPERS: ALL WHO CAME on THURSDAY:FRIDAY (Dress Rehearsals); SATURDAY:SUNDAY (PAID TICKET ENTRANCE) to be part of this great story (Approximately 400 people). Musicians: Anne Robinson, (Keyboard). Her Gran died on the 21st February. R.I.P. Our prayers and support go to her and the family.
Michael McCurrach, (Guitar); Liam O’ Connell, (who has had chemo and was unable to participate. Our prayers and support go to him and his family.
Michael Nott:(Lighting engineer). Michael Dunne, (Sound engineer).
Mrs Howell (Headteacher), Lizzie Arnold and Julia Gosden (Staff), Pupils from St Catherine’s School in the Choir, who added colour and tone to the Performance.
Nothing could have been without team effort (patience, co-operation, commitment and good humour) in ALL areas of the production. Arun Community Church for the hire of the staging and backdrop curtain. Transportation of props and equipment by strong willing workers at the beginning and end of the Production.
Father Dominic and the Parish for allowing us to use the Parish Centre.
The playgroup for their co-operation for allowing us to create an atmospheric experience for the audience from the moment they enter through the main door. (fortunately it was Half-Term!) We thank Bishop Kieran for his support and hope he enjoys today’s performance.
Father Seamus will offer Mass in the Convent Chapel on SATURDAY 9TH MARCH at 10.30a.m. for everyone who took part or helped in any way to make the Story of Joseph, real and inspirational, even in today’s troubled world. We glorify and praise God for the gifts He bestowed on each individual so that His Word was proclaimed in such a beautiful way; enriching all who were touched by the themes of discord, pride, remorse, reconciliation and conversion.
Lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Joseph was a licenced production with THE REALLY USEFUL GROUP LTD London.
By Sr Anastasia
Michael McCurrach, (Guitar); Liam O’ Connell, (who has had chemo and was unable to participate. Our prayers and support go to him and his family.
Michael Nott:(Lighting engineer). Michael Dunne, (Sound engineer).
Mrs Howell (Headteacher), Lizzie Arnold and Julia Gosden (Staff), Pupils from St Catherine’s School in the Choir, who added colour and tone to the Performance.
Nothing could have been without team effort (patience, co-operation, commitment and good humour) in ALL areas of the production. Arun Community Church for the hire of the staging and backdrop curtain. Transportation of props and equipment by strong willing workers at the beginning and end of the Production.
Father Dominic and the Parish for allowing us to use the Parish Centre.
The playgroup for their co-operation for allowing us to create an atmospheric experience for the audience from the moment they enter through the main door. (fortunately it was Half-Term!) We thank Bishop Kieran for his support and hope he enjoys today’s performance.
Father Seamus will offer Mass in the Convent Chapel on SATURDAY 9TH MARCH at 10.30a.m. for everyone who took part or helped in any way to make the Story of Joseph, real and inspirational, even in today’s troubled world. We glorify and praise God for the gifts He bestowed on each individual so that His Word was proclaimed in such a beautiful way; enriching all who were touched by the themes of discord, pride, remorse, reconciliation and conversion.
Lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Joseph was a licenced production with THE REALLY USEFUL GROUP LTD London.
By Sr Anastasia
2012
Christmas Bazaar and Nativity Exhibition 1 December 2012
There was a great party atmosphere at St Catherine’s Christmas Bazaar. In addition to the usual stalls, entertainment was organised at various intervals throughout the afternoon. Five young girls from our Keralan community performed an interpretative dance in national costume. The hall fell silent as those present became enchanted by the graceful movements of the dancers. Their performance was followed by a delicious Keralan curry.
Later the Sparkles children's variety group sang and danced. 'Away in a Manger' was followed by 'Zat you Santa Claus?' at the end of which Santa Claus himself arrived. The children were amazed! Thank you Santa for taking time out of your busy schedule to visit. Finally, the Madeiran Pearl Folklore group entertained us with several Portuguese Carols and some traditional Madeiran folk dancing.
Alongside the Bazaar the local Secular Franciscans hosted a Nativity exhibition. There were over 100 different nativity interpretations from around the world. The exhibits included a wonderful interpretation of the Nativity produced by the pupils of St Catherine’s Primary school. In total the day raised £1,321.77. The proceeds will go to Church funds, St Catherine’s school and a donation to HOMElink. However, the sense of community created was priceless! Our thanks go out to everyone who helped make the day such a success. This includes everyone who helped and attended the event and those who donated gifts for the raffle. One of the prizes in the raffle was a meal for four at the 47 Mussel Row Bistro, Littlehampton. There were many other great prizes.
Later the Sparkles children's variety group sang and danced. 'Away in a Manger' was followed by 'Zat you Santa Claus?' at the end of which Santa Claus himself arrived. The children were amazed! Thank you Santa for taking time out of your busy schedule to visit. Finally, the Madeiran Pearl Folklore group entertained us with several Portuguese Carols and some traditional Madeiran folk dancing.
Alongside the Bazaar the local Secular Franciscans hosted a Nativity exhibition. There were over 100 different nativity interpretations from around the world. The exhibits included a wonderful interpretation of the Nativity produced by the pupils of St Catherine’s Primary school. In total the day raised £1,321.77. The proceeds will go to Church funds, St Catherine’s school and a donation to HOMElink. However, the sense of community created was priceless! Our thanks go out to everyone who helped make the day such a success. This includes everyone who helped and attended the event and those who donated gifts for the raffle. One of the prizes in the raffle was a meal for four at the 47 Mussel Row Bistro, Littlehampton. There were many other great prizes.
Professional photographer Emma Storey has more photos of the day on her own website - please visit http://storeyimage.weebly.com/nativity-exhibition-2012.html
Social Singing and Fun Night Saturday 13 October 2012
The Social Singing and Fun Night was a great success and enjoyed by everyone who attended. It was an evening filled with fun, laughter singing and dancing. Our compere for the occasion was the very talented, entertaining and enthusiastic Liz Angioni. Providing suitable 'Props' for the evening, including maracas, tambourines, hats, wigs and inflatable guitars to boost the party spirit Liz led us singing and dancing through the decades from the Beatles, Elton, Abba and Take That, to name a few. Even Fr Dominic had a go at line dancing!
The shared supper included many culinary delights and was a welcome interlude to the evening. It was lovely to see so many families enjoying a night out together.
The evening raised £285 which will go towards the repairs needed for the Church Hall.
A big thank you to Liz Angioni who organised the event and to all her willing helpers on the day.
The Social Singing and Fun Night was a great success and enjoyed by everyone who attended. It was an evening filled with fun, laughter singing and dancing. Our compere for the occasion was the very talented, entertaining and enthusiastic Liz Angioni. Providing suitable 'Props' for the evening, including maracas, tambourines, hats, wigs and inflatable guitars to boost the party spirit Liz led us singing and dancing through the decades from the Beatles, Elton, Abba and Take That, to name a few. Even Fr Dominic had a go at line dancing!
The shared supper included many culinary delights and was a welcome interlude to the evening. It was lovely to see so many families enjoying a night out together.
The evening raised £285 which will go towards the repairs needed for the Church Hall.
A big thank you to Liz Angioni who organised the event and to all her willing helpers on the day.
Summer Fete Saturday 18 August 2012
Our Summer Fete went really well and raised the magnificent sum of £1,065.04. We were blessed with excellent weather for the event and the party atmosphere was brilliant. Thank you to everyone who helped out in so many ways. A special thank you to Zoë Duggan for organising the event and to Liz Angioni for capturing the photos below.
Feast of the Assumption Party Wednesday 15 August 2012
Our Parish celebrated the Feast of the Assumption with a party. The Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary is the feast in which we celebrate the immaculate Mother of God. The ever Virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul to heavenly glory.
The celebrations started with Holy Mass. Lead by the choir the hymn singing was strong, joyful and reflected Mary’s importance in our faith. During his homily Fr Dominic reminded us of Mary’s importance in our lives. Mary is closely associated with all the mysteries of Jesus’ life and directs us towards Jesus.
After Mass there were many delicious treats in store for the parishioners who stayed and joined the shared supper and social gathering. People started to deliver their shared offerings to the church hall before Mass started and more arrived after. The simple supper turned into a veritable feast. The wine was kindly provided by Father Dominic.
At around 8.45pm, all gathered on the grass outside the church for a short, but beautiful display of fireworks set up by Fr Dominic. After a slight delay the two very big fireworks were lit and presented an apt and original interlude to the evening. Luckily Emma Storey had the presence of mind to capture one of the fireworks on her camera (see video below). After the firework display, the social gathering continued inside the hall.
Our thanks must also go to the Blondell family who prepared the hall for our celebration.
The celebrations started with Holy Mass. Lead by the choir the hymn singing was strong, joyful and reflected Mary’s importance in our faith. During his homily Fr Dominic reminded us of Mary’s importance in our lives. Mary is closely associated with all the mysteries of Jesus’ life and directs us towards Jesus.
After Mass there were many delicious treats in store for the parishioners who stayed and joined the shared supper and social gathering. People started to deliver their shared offerings to the church hall before Mass started and more arrived after. The simple supper turned into a veritable feast. The wine was kindly provided by Father Dominic.
At around 8.45pm, all gathered on the grass outside the church for a short, but beautiful display of fireworks set up by Fr Dominic. After a slight delay the two very big fireworks were lit and presented an apt and original interlude to the evening. Luckily Emma Storey had the presence of mind to capture one of the fireworks on her camera (see video below). After the firework display, the social gathering continued inside the hall.
Our thanks must also go to the Blondell family who prepared the hall for our celebration.