St James Bootle
The Exaltation of the Holy Cross
The Exaltation of the Holy Cross
St James Bootle
23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
St James Bootle
22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
St James Bootle
18th Sunday in Ordinary Time
18th Sunday in Ordinary Time
St James Bootle
St James’ Parish Camp 2025
St James’ Parish Camp 2025

The Exaltation of the Holy Cross

Reflection

The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross invites the faithful to look upon the One who was lifted up, drawing all people to himself. It proclaims that what once symbolised shame and death has become the sign of healing and eternal life. ‘We do not exalt any cross whatsoever or all crosses: we exalt the Cross of Jesus, because in it, God’s love for humanity was fully revealed.’ (Pope Francis, September 14, 2014) In exalting the Cross, the Church contemplates the humility of Christ, who emptied himself in love and was raised up in glory. This liturgical celebration calls for the faith to gaze upon the Cross and see there the revelation of divine love that embraces all humanity and offers new life wherever there is suffering and death.


Stop assisted suicide - further action needed! 

As the assisted suicide Bill progresses through the Lords, Peers have made it clear that receiving physical letters will have the most influence at this stage of the process.
Right To Life UK has launched a new EasyAction tool that creates a personalised letter to be sent in the post to a Peer highlighting a key concern with the Bill, selects a Peer to receive it, and customises the letter so that it is addressed from you.
Visit www.righttolife.org.uk/aspeersletter to send a letter to Peers asking them to oppose assisted suicide.

Thank you  

I would like to say a big “thank you” to you, the Parishioners of St James’, for your kindness and generosity to Fr Jim on his jubilee celebration last week. He thoroughly enjoyed himself and it really cheered him up. His community from Bolton were impressed by the warmth of your welcome. So thank you very much.

Lourdes Pilgrimage Meeting 

Important Lourdes Pilgrimage meeting on Monday, 15th September, 6.30.pm. in St. Monica’s church
Your attendance at this meeting is vital, as you will be receiving your Boarding Passes, and any other important information you need. There will also be an opportunity to ask any questions you may have. SEE YOU TOMORROW AT 6.30.pm!

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

Blessed are those who realise that they cannot live on bread alone but need the word of God too: they will be fully nourished. Blessed are those who, when they have sinned, follow the example of the prodigal son and come back home to seek reconciliation: they will cause heaven to ring with joy. Blessed are those who stop to attend to a wounded neighbour, pouring in the oil of compassion and the wine of hope: they are the Good Samaritans of today. Blessed are those who remove the plank from their own eyes before telling their brother to remove the splinter from his: their efforts at reforming others will bear fruit. And blessed are those who, having put their hand to the plough, refuse to look back: they will be found worthy of the Kingdom.

Golden Jubilee  

We congratulate Fr Jim on reaching 50 years as a Salesian priest. We thank him for his ministry to so many people, in so many situations, both happy and sad.
We ask God to grant him health and strength for the next stage of his ministry.
May the Lord inspire and protect him in all he does in the future.


Archdiocesan Celebration 

Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassatti will be canonised as saints today. To mark the celebration, an Evening Prayer and Benediction presided over by Bishop Tom Neylon will take place starting at 15.00 this afternoon at St. Stephen’s Church, Warrington, WA2 9HS.
Refreshment will follow. All are welcome to join.


Bereavement Support 

Friday, 12 September 10.00-15.00, The Irenaeus Centre is exploring the ways in which we can support people in a time of grief, consider the stages of grief and what might help people.
Hosted at the Irenaeus Centre, Great Georges Rd. Waterloo L22 1RD. Book a place with Jenny Tel: 0151 949 1199 or jenny@irenaeus.co.uk.
Donation £10. Bring a Packed Lunch


Lourdes Pilgrimage Meeting 

Important Lourdes Pilgrimage meeting on Monday, 15th September, 6.30.pm. in St. Monica’s church. Your attendance at this meeting is vital, as you will be receiving your Boarding Passes, and any other important information you need. There will also be an opportunity to ask any questions you may have. SEE YOU ON 15TH AT 6.30.pm! 

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

Lord, we thank you for having us as guests at the banquet of the Eucharist. Here we have listened to your word and eaten the food of eternal life. May we go forth from here humbled, yet exalted. May we be so sure of our worth before you that the honours of this world will never ensnare us. And in your goodness grant us a place at the heavenly banquet. Amen

Archdiocesan Celebration 

Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassatti will be canonised as saints on 7 September. To mark the celebration, an Evening Prayer and Benediction presided over by Bishop Tom Neylon will take place on Sunday 7 September at 15.00 at St. Stephen’s Church, Warrington, WA2 9HS.
Refreshment will follow. All are welcome to join.

Bereavement Support 

Friday, 12 September 10.00-15.00, The Irenaeus Centre is exploring the ways in which we can support people in a time of grief, consider the stages of grief and what might help people.
Hosted at the Irenaeus Centre, Great Georges Rd. Waterloo L22 1RD. Book a place with Jenny Tel: 0151 949 1199 or jenny@irenaeus.co.uk.
Donation £10. Bring a Packed Lunch

Golden Jubilee  

On Sunday 7th September, Fr Jim McGarry will celebrate his Golden Jubilee of priesthood here in St James’ at the 10.30am Mass. His anniversary was in July, but his health prevented him from celebrating then. Fr Jim will lead the Mass, and there will be tea and cake after Mass to celebrate the occasion. Please join us if you can.


Lourdes Pilgrimage Meeting 

Important Lourdes Pilgrimage meeting on Monday, 15th September, 6.30.pm. in St. Monica’s church. Your attendance at this meeting is vital, as you will be receiving your Boarding Passes, and any other important information you need. There will also be an opportunity to ask any questions you may have. SEE YOU ON 15TH AT 6.30.pm!

18th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

While out for an evening walk, I emerged from an area where the streets were lit by bright lamps and came into an open dark area. It was only then I discovered that the sky was full of stars. I thought to myself: how easily and how effectively the earthly lights extinguish the heavenly ones. Lord, help us to seek the things that make us rich in your sight and grant that the glitter of this world may not dim our hopes of heavenly glory.


Day For Catechists: Formation & Reflection 

Are you a catechist looking for spiritual refreshment?
No matter what kind of ministry you are serving, there is a good opportunity for you to refresh your vocation of being a catechist. On Saturday 27 September, the Day for Catechists will be organised from 10.00—16:00 at  Carmelite Monastery L18 3NU. With the facilitation of Sr Carino and Sr Hyacinthe from the Dominican Sister of St Joseph, there will be spiritual input and practical discussion on the mission of catechesis. If you’re interested, please contact Moses at m.mui@rcaol.org.uk

Pilgrims of hope to the Holy Land 

As the suffering in Gaza continues, many Palestinian Christian communities in East Jerusalem and the West Bank are struggling silently. Michael O’Brien, a parishioner at Bishop Eton, Liverpool, recently travelled to the Holy Land to witness the reality firsthand. Deeply moved by what he saw, he is now inviting others to join him in responding to a heartfelt plea from the local Church:
“Return to the Holy Land as Pilgrims of Hope and show solidarity with the Christian community. Come back! We’re waiting for you, and we need you!” The “Liverpool Pilgrims of Hope” initiative offers a way for local Christians to make a difference — not through politics or protest, but through pilgrimage: To learn more or express interest, click the link below.

St James’ Parish Camp 2025  

Today was the last day of our Parish Camp. From 23 July to 3 August, St James’ Parish Camp 2025 brought together nearly 60 young people for prayer, friendship, and fun! With daily Mass and Catechism classes as well as trips to Alton Towers, Ninja Warrior and lively competition days, it was two unforgettable weeks. Read the full story below.

St James’ Parish Camp 2025

This summer, St James’ Parish came alive with the joy and energy of nearly 60 young people who took part in our 2025 Parish Camp – two incredible weeks filled with prayer, learning, adventure and friendship.

We began on 23rd July with a powerful opening day. Br André led us in prayer, inviting everyone to reflect on the Parable of the Good Samaritan – a reminder of the call to show love and compassion to those around us. Fr Jacob deepened our understanding of the Eucharist in a catechism session, before we joined the parish for Mass on the feast of St Bridget of Sweden. In the afternoon, the group headed off for an action-packed session at Ninja Warrior, where teamwork, laughter, and a few sore muscles set the tone for the days to come!

The first week included two lively Competition Days, with plenty of games, prizes and healthy rivalry – congratulations to Bobby, who won the first round! We also enjoyed delicious Domino’s pizza and beautiful weather as the parish gardens became a playground of joy.

25th July marked the Feast of St James, our parish’s patron. We gathered for Mass early in the morning before heading to Alton Towers for a full day of rollercoasters, courage and laughter – a real highlight of the camp!

The week concluded on 27th July with Sunday Mass and a trip to Southport for bowling and laser tag, before saying goodbye to the first group of campers.

After a short pause, week two kicked off on 30th July, welcoming a new group made up of altar servers, Brownies, members of our choir and students from The Salesian Academy of St John Bosco. We were also blessed to be joined by the Salesian Sisters GBR, who brought fresh energy and joy to the camp.

Once again, the days were full of faith and fun – mornings began with prayer, catechism and Mass, and afternoons brought new adventures. The group returned to Ninja Warrior, enjoyed more competition days (well done to Divine and Sara, our winners!), and spent another unforgettable day at Alton Towers.

On 3rd August, the camp came to a close. As we gathered for the final Mass and said our goodbyes, there was a real sense of gratitude – for new friendships made, for time spent together, and for the chance to grow closer to Christ.

A heartfelt thank you goes to our Youth Active Team, the Salesian Brothers and the Salesian Sisters, whose dedication and joy made this camp possible. And of course, thank you to the young people and their families – your enthusiasm and faith brought life to every moment of the two weeks.

As we look back on St James’ Parish Camp 2025, we give thanks to God for all the blessings we received. May the memories made continue to inspire our young people to live with the joy of the Gospel – and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back for next year’s adventure!

17th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

Jesus urges us to ask, seek and knock. This means our faith has to be an active one. However, sometimes we are too proud to ask, so we don’t receive. We are too lazy to seek, so we don’t find. We are too timid to knock so the door doesn’t open to us. We mustn’t wait for things to happen, or to fall into our hands. We must be humble and trustful, yet bold and energetic if we are to receive good things from our Father in Heaven.

Youth 2000 Summer Festival 2025 

Taking place in the grounds of Ampleforth College from Friday 22nd - Monday 25th August, the Youth 2000 Summer Festival provides young adults (aged 16-35) from across the UK the opportunity to come together and explore faith, build relationships and find hope. This four-day festival includes great speakers, social time, break-out sessions, Daily Mass, 24/7 Adoration and much more! Click the link to register.


Prayer for the fifth world day for grandparents and the elderly 

'Blessed are those who have not lost hope' (Sir 14:2)
How beautiful are these words of yours, Lord! Help us to continue our pilgrimage through time, animated by the hope that comes from You! Help us in this divisive world, to bring the hope of communion.
Help us in this world, wounded by wars, to bring the hope of peace. Help us in this world, which is dehumanizing, to bring the beauty of an ancient smile. Help us to be, for our grandchildren, for our loved ones and for everyone we meet, the memory of your tenderness. Help us to bring, in a world distracted from You, the Hope of a new life that only You can give! For in You, Lord, nothing is lost. For in You, Lord, everything begins again! Amen

16th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

Lord, I place myself in your presence. After the strain and turmoil of the day, I rest quietly here as a little boat, which as been tossed by the waves and buffeted by the wind, rests secure in a sheltered harbour. Here my projects lose their power over me. A healing process begins. My fragmented self is reassembled and I a made whole again. In your presence, I experience my true worth, which consists not in doing but in being. I surrender myself into your hands. I am at peace.

Congratulations! 

We congratulate Father Augustine who has been ordained priest alongside eight other Salesians in Nigeria. Let's keep Fr Augustine in our prayers in this very special and joyful time.




Youth 2000 Summer Festival 2025 

Taking place in the grounds of Ampleforth College from Friday 22nd - Monday 25th August, the Youth 2000 Summer Festival provides young adults (aged 16-35) from across the UK the opportunity to come together and explore faith, build relationships and find hope. This four-day festival includes great speakers, social time, break-out sessions, Daily Mass, 24/7 Adoration and much more!

Holidays 

Fr Brian will be on holiday from 22nd July to 12th August.
During his absence, the Parish will be in the experienced and capable hands of Fr Hugh.

15th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

The good Samaritan was someone who cared. Blessed are those who care, they will let people know they are loved. Blessed are those who are gentle, they will help people to grow as the sun helps the buds to unfold. Blessed are those who listen, they will lighten many a burden. Blessed are those who know how to let go, they will have the joy of seeing people find themselves. Blessed are those who, when nothing can be done or said, do not walk away but remain to provide a comforting and supportive presence. They will help the sufferer to bear the unbearable. Blessed are those who recognise their own need to receive, they will be able to give all the better. And blessed are those who give without the hope of return, they will give people an experience of God.


Good luck and God bless 

We say farewell to our Deacon Augustine this Sunday.
He is going back to Nigeria to prepare for his Ordination to the priesthood on 19th July.
I would like to thank him for all the work he has done in the Parish in the last year. He has been a great asset and always willing to help and get involved.
We ask God to bless him in a special way as he becomes a Salesian priest.

Message from Fr Brian 

I wanted to express my thanks and appreciation for the contribution you all made to the celebration of my Jubilee. It was a wonderful occasion and my family were thrilled at how “at home” they felt among you! Thank you to all of you for your generosity: I was speechless when I got the large cheque. And thank you to all of you who gave me cards, again full of generous gifts. I want to say a special thanks to all those who worked so hard to organise everything and to get the buffet ready in the Hall: John, Sue, Vicky, Harry, Marie, Micky, Ann, Anne, Patsy, Kitty, Rita, and probably others I’m not aware of. Thank you all. Thanks to Kitty for a beautiful cake, and thanks to all the musicians, readers and servers. I will never forget your kindness to me.

14th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me bring love.
Where there is offence, let me bring pardon.
Where there is discord, let me bring union.
Where there is error, let me bring truth.
Where there is doubt, let me bring faith.
Where there is despair, let me bring hope.
Where there is darkness, let me bring your light.
Where there is sadness, let me bring joy.
O Lord, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love,
for it is in giving that one receives,
it is in self-forgetting that one finds,
it is in forgiving that one is forgiven,
it is in dying that one awakens to eternal life.
(St Francis of Assisi)


Congratulations 

Congratulations Father Brian on your Ruby Jubilee!
Thank you for your 40 years of dedicated service to the Church and community, from all St James’ parishioners.

Lectio for young adults 

Every Friday at 6pm at St Vincent de Paul's Church, L1 5JN, there is a "lectio" prayer group for young adults. There will be a Mass at 6pm, followed by a short time of sharing the Sunday readings at 6.30pm. It's a friendly group and sometimes they also organise trips and retreats. Follow this link below to join the WhatsApp community. If you want more information please contact James: djmoroney@cantab.net or 07394 503 911



Funeral 

The Funeral service for Jane Lunt will take place here in St James’ on Wednesday 9th July at 11.45am.
Please pray for the repose of Jane’s soul and the comfort of her family.

The Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul

Reflection

Today’s Feast is a wonderful occasion to reflect on the mission of the Church and, indeed, of our own Diocese. There is much hope for each and every one of us in the lives of these two great saints. Both had their frailties: St Peter could be impetuous and, when the moment of his greatest test came, he denied the Lord. Yet, Jesus, seeing the faith and love that were in him, called him to be the foundation on which the Church is built. St Paul, a one-time persecutor of the Church, comes to preach the Resurrection of Christ across the known world of his time. In these two men, therefore, there is hope for us. Despite our own faults, failings and weaknesses, Jesus calls us to be his disciples, to be those who – with lives built on the relationship of love that is our prayer, with faith nourished and deepened in the life of His Church – are his witnesses in our present age.  This is a time, a moment, when that witness is needed in so many ways. (Bishop Richard Moth.)


Parish Meeting 

The last Parish open meeting to discuss the Diocesan Pastoral Plan will be on Tuesday 1st July at 7pm in the Parish house. The topics for discussion are:
Becoming a Church where synodality is embedded.
Becoming a Church that renews its organisational structures and administers its property to serve its mission.
Everyone is welcome to share their views.


Congratulations 

We congratulate Fr Hugh Preston and his twin Fr Francis as they celebrate the Golden Jubilee of their priesthood on the 5th July. Over the next two weekend they are celebrating in Bollington and in London. We ask God to reward them for their years of dedicated ministry and for all the good they have done to so many people. May God bless them with good health as they continue their wonderful ministry.