Though many have gone on holidays (including St. Mark) the many
preparations for the World Meeting of Families continues. The Host families
of our guests from Latin America had a special coordinating meeting.
We also had the visit of Sister Margaret, home from Australia –
Parishioners were delighted to meet Sr Margaret one of the FCJ sisters who
have contributed so much to this Parish.
Recently the Board of the Pastoral Centre had a special meeting to review
the five years since the New Parish Centre opened its doors. The
contribution of the Centre to Parish and Community life could not be
over-stated and the generous giving of time by so many volunteers cannot go
without recognition. The Board made several suggestions to enhance the
operation of the Centre and it was agreed that the whole centre needed a
bit of TLC (painting and decorating and replacement of some items that have
become worse for wear). The Board suggested that all who use the centre be
asked for suggestions and comments.
The most important element was the re-statement of the Mission of the
Parish Centre and the invitation to involve more members of the Parish in
the operation of the Centre. To that end an appeal for volunteers will be
made through this Newsletter, the Website and at Masses. To all who made
and continue to make the Parish Centre a place of welcome, a place of joy
and learning, a place of formation and fun …. THANK YOU
Quote from Pope Francis (The Joy of the Gospel):
“The parish is the presence of the Church in a given territory, an
environment for hearing God’s word, for growth in the Christian life, for
dialogue, proclamation, charitable outreach, worship and celebration. In
all its activities the parish encourages and trains its members to be
evangelisers. It is a community of communities, a sanctuary where the
thirsty come to drink in the midst of their journey, and a centre of
constant missionary outreach.”
