2nd Sunday of Advent

Reflection

Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul and sings the tune without the words and never stops at all.
And sweetest in the gale is heard and sore must be the storm that could abash the little bird that kept so many warm.
I’ve heard it in the chillest land and on the strangest sea. Yet never in extremity it asked a crumb of me.
Emily Dickinson

First Confession

Our small First Communion group will be making their First Confessions on Monday 8th December, here in Church at 7pm. Please pray for the children and their families at this important time.

Confirmation 

The link to the registration website is now available as detailed below.

B&B stays at Castlerigg Manor 

Castlerigg Manor is a Catholic retreat centre in the Lake District owned and operated by the Diocese of Lancaster. They work with more than 3,000 young people a year from around the north and beyond. When the building is empty, they offer B&B stays to individuals, families and small private groups and the money this raises supports their mission with young people.
Some B&B dates have opened up this January and February. Specifically, January 5-7th, February 9-11th, and February 16-18th. It's very affordable to book and a nice chance to spend a few days in the Lakes. To book click the link below.

Funeral 

The funeral Mass for Mary Morissy will take place here in St James’ on Thursday 11th December at 12.15pm. Her body will be received into Church the previous evening with a short Vigil Service at 7pm.
Please remember Mary and her family in your prayers.

1st Sunday of Advent

Reflection

In today's reading, we hear St Paul say:
"Let your armour be the Lord."
Hence we might pray as follows:
Circle me Lord. Keep protection near; keep danger afar.
Circle me Lord. Keep hope within; keep doubt without.
Circle me Lord. Keep light near; keep darkness afar.
Circle me Lord. Keep peace within; keep strife without.
Circle me Lord. Keep love within; keep hate without.
Amen.

Thank You

 St James' brownies would like to thank you all for your support of our raffle and brownie stall. We raised £290 which is much appreciated.

Confirmation 

The link to the registration website is now available as detailed below.

Cafod Fun Run 

This takes place on 27 December at Wavertree Sports Park and is open to all. Run, walk, or wheel with family and friends to share the joy of Christmas and raise money for those in need! Sign up from the link below

Be a Trust Governor 

Pope Francis Catholic Multi Academy Trust are looking for Governors to support leaders in providing the best Catholic education for pupils in our schools. If you are interested in using your skills to benefit our pupils, please contact: governance@pfcmat.org or click the link below.

Funeral 

The funeral service for Joan Dickinson will take place here in St. James on Monday 1st December at 12.15pm.
Please pray for the repose of Joan’s soul and the comfort of her family.

The Solemnity of Christ the King

Reflection

In the Gospel we see Jesus reigning not from a throne but from the cross: love poured out, mercy offered, and a refusal to abandon His people. The good thief recognises this and entrusts himself to Jesus, receiving the promise of Paradise. Today as we honour Christ our King, we are invited to let Him reign in our hearts, deepening our love, and guiding us towards eternal life.

Youth Sunday

Today, the Solemnity of Christ the King is when we keep Youth Sunday, a day for the world to recognise and celebrate young people in our local church communities, whether that be through school, at home, or of course in church.
To highlight all that young people do, and what we offer young people across the diocese, you will find some leaflets in your parish. If you would like more copies they are available to download from animateyouth.org
In order for us to continue to work with young people the additional collection today goes to support the on-going work of Youth Ministry here in the diocese. Even in these difficult times any contribution you are able to give would be welcomed.
Gift Aid envelopes are available for those able to do so.

Confirmation 

After a few years of bedding in a new age for young people to be Confirmed – in year 8 rather than in primary school, we have seen numbers increase in the last couple of years for those who register on the Liverpool Called website. Last year we had over 1600 young people register online.
Due to feedback from some parishes and schools the website to register for the Sacrament of Confirmation will open earlier and close earlier. This year we will open on Youth Sunday (23rd November) and close on the 13th February (February Half Term). This means the names for each deanery will be sent to Deans before the 23rd February – a month earlier than in previous years.
We will post the link to the registration website as soon as it becomes available.

Silver Jubilee 

Archbishop Malcolm McMahon OP will celebrate his silver jubilee of Episcopal ordination in the coming weeks.
He will celebrate Holy Mass at 12noon on Saturday 6 December at the Metropolitan Cathedral - all are welcome.

What Can I bring Him? Advent Evenings 

The Irenaeus Centre are hosting several Advent evenings on Wednesday 26 November and Wednesday 10 December from 19:00-20:30. For more information and zoom links please contact jenny@irenaeus.co.uk

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

Jesus warns us of challenges to come. Yet he assures us that God is with us always. We are not called to fear but to remain steadfast, trusting in Christ’s presence. By enduring with patience and speaking truth with love, we become witnesses of hope. No matter how the world shakes, not a hair of our head is forgotten by God. May we live with faith, courage, and hope, guided by His words and His divine grace everyday.

Bereavement Mass 

Our special Bereavement Mass, when we remember those who have died in the past year, will be held in St James' on Saturday 22nd November at 11am. 
As well as praying for those who have died most recently, we invite anyone who wants to come and pray for the deceased members of their family.

Parish Development Strategy 

Phase Two of the Parish Development Strategy Launches in Sefton. On 4th November, the second phase of the Parish Development Strategy was officially launched as steering groups from the three Sefton Deaneries came together for a creative and forward-looking workshop. Their task: to imagine what the church of the future could look like. Using data from a fictional deanery—Hope Deanery—participants were invited to apply the vision of the Archdiocesan Pastoral Plan to the future development of parishes. The data was realistic, but the fictional setting gave space for bold and imaginative thinking, free from local constraints. The impact of the exercise was summed up by participants:
“This has helped us realise what a huge task we have.”
“It is exciting to be invited to be part of creating the way the church will be in the future in the Diocese.”
"This process is NOT about diminishing or closing, it’s about developing – it is life-giving” In the coming weeks, each Deanery will receive its own realistic data and future projections. They will be invited to engage deeply with the Pastoral Plan and develop up to three proposals for their Deanery that are both missionary in focus and sustainable in practice. This strategy is being rolled out across the Archdiocese, with South Liverpool and Warrington & Widnes the next Deaneries to begin the process. The hope is that within two years, every Deanery will have embarked on this journey—helping us all become the Church God is calling us to be, both now and in the near future.

Families of Parishes’ Party Night 

On FRIDAY, 21st NOVEMBER - 7.00.pm. IN ST. MONICA’S PARISH CENTRE.
Live music, refreshments, Raffle prizes and ‘spot the ball’. Tickets @  £10.00 each, available from Cathy on: 07564 903 324 and from Ann Kirby.
Please note, tickets are going very quickly, so please get yours as soon as possible. It promises to be a great night - DON’T MISS OUT!

Dedication of the Lateran Basilica

Reflection

I would like to reflect with you on our celebration this Sunday, November 9th as we commemorate the dedication of the Basilica of St. John Lateran in Rome. At first glance, it may seem like a strange celebration for the universal Church, but there is a very important reason we do so. The Basilica of St. John Lateran is a distinctive treasure of theology, spirituality, and ecclesiology. As you approach the basilica, you’ll see an inscription across the front that reads: “The sacred mother and head of all the churches of the city and of the world.” That bold claim explains why we celebrate this feast universally. Indeed, the Church of St. John Lateran in Rome is the mother and head of all churches in the city and the world. In a real sense, St. John Lateran has been teaching us as Catholics what it means to be Church for nearly 1,700 years.

Remembrance Sunday 

Today is also Remembrance Sunday, when we remember everyone who died in war for our peace and freedom.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.

Bereavement Mass 

Our special Bereavement Mass, when we remember those who have died in the past year, will be held in St James' on Saturday 22nd November at 11am. 
As well as praying for those who have died most recently, we invite anyone who wants to come and pray for the deceased members of their family.

Dead Lists 

November dead lists are available at the back of church (No money please, just names).

Jubilee icon visit

As part of the celebrations marking the Jubilee Year, the Jubilee Icon has been touring dioceses across the UK, inspiring communities with its message of hope and renewal. We’re delighted to share that the icon is now in the Archdiocese of Liverpool.

The icon will be visiting private locations such as schools and chaplaincies across the archdiocese, but there are many opportunities to see it at public events – find out when it will be near you here:

www.liverpoolcatholic.org.uk/news/jubilee-icon-tour

The Solemnity of All Saints

Reflection

There are people who have a steady flame shining from deep inside them. This flame is not extinguished when others criticise or ignore them for it is not dependent on what others think of them, it is what they think of themselves with a quiet certainty. Each of us can behave in either of two ways: We can behave like a sinner or a saint. We help people more by giving them a favourable image of themselves than by constantly harping on their faults. The saints hold up a mirror before us. In the mirror we get a most favourable image of ourselves. We see what we are capable of. All we need is the will to walk in the light of what we have seen.

Adoremus 2025 - Volunteers needed 

On Saturday 8 November, the Archdiocese of Liverpool will host Adoremus at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King—a day of prayer, reflection, and celebration at the heart of our Jubilee Year. 
During the day, there will be opportunities for Mass, shared diocesan prayer, confession, veneration of the relics of St Carlos Acutis and St Pier Giorgio Frassati, and a range of workshops focused on ministry.
All are welcome to attend all or part of the day. Attendees must register if they would like to attend a workshop as spaces are limited.
A news article outlining the event and a full timetable, can be found here.

The Lateran Basilica 

Next Sunday, instead of the usual Sunday Mass, we are celebrating the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica.
It is also Remembrance Sunday, when we remember all those killed in the various wars the last two centuries.
We will have our usual small wreathe ceremony before the 10.30 Mass.

30th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

If the Pharisee had his way the Tax-Collector would not have been allowed into the Temple at all. Some people believe that sinners should never go to church. They cry ‘hypocrites’ at those who do. According to them only saints should be admitted to church but that would result in a very small church and would make as little sense as a repair shop that accepted only sound things or a hospital that accepted only healthy people. We go to church not because we are worthy but because we need to. We are brave enough to admit our sinfulness but are willing to strive for something better. We need the healing mercy of God as well as the support of the community if our efforts at self-improvement are to bear fruit.

Adoremus 2025 - Volunteers needed 

All are invited to join Adoremus 2025 at the Metropolitan Cathedral on Saturday 8 November, 9.00am–5.00pm. Come and spend time with the Lord in Eucharistic Adoration, Holy Mass, and shared prayer, with workshops and opportunities for Confession throughout the day.
We’re also looking for volunteers to help welcome and assist pilgrims.
If you’d like to get involved, please email the Pastoral Development department at PD@rcaol.org.uk

Funeral 

The funeral service for Norah Forster will take place here in St James’ on Monday 27th October at 11.30am. Please pray for the repose of Norah’s soul and the comfort of her family.

Families Of Parishes’ Party Night 

On FRIDAY, 21st NOVEMBER - 7.00.pm. IN ST. MONICA’S PARISH CENTRE. Live music, refreshments, Raffle prizes and ‘spot the ball’. Tickets @   £10.00 each, available from Cathy on: 07564 903 324. And from Ann Kirby. Please note, tickets are going very quickly, so please get yours as soon as possible. It promises to be a great night - DON’T MISS OUT!

29th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells of a widow who never gives up asking a judge for justice. If even a corrupt man can be moved by persistence, how much more will our loving God hear our prayers? Jesus teaches us to pray with faith and perseverance for what is good and just. God, like a caring parent, gives His children what they truly need. When we pray sincerely, He responds with love, often by giving us the greatest gift of all - the Holy Spirit.

World Mission Sunday 

Today, Sunday 19 October, parishes worldwide celebrate World Mission Sunday. By supporting Missio – the Pope’s charity for world mission – we stand united as God’s global family, in prayer, solidarity and action. We are called to be ‘Missionaries Of Hope Among All Peoples’ as everyone deserves to hear that God loves them and to be strengthened by God’s Spirit. Please pray for missionaries and give what you can to this vital collection, bringing God’s compassion, peace and justice to those in need. To donate, use the Missio envelope, call 020 7821 9755 (office hours) or visit missio.org.uk to give a gift, set up a Direct Debit and Gift Aid your donation if possible.

Sunday Car Parking  

For the next 6-8 weeks, the Primary school is having work done on the cladding of their building. To do this the contractors will need to store their equipment on the car park. For security reasons we will not be able to use the car park on Sunday for Mass. Can I ask you to show some restraint when it comes to parking inside the Church grounds. Not everyone will fit in, and I would prefer if the access from our house is not blocked. Driving over the lawn in your car is not really acceptable!

Funeral 

The funeral service for Gary Pratt will take place here in St James’ on Tuesday 21st October at 12.45pm. Please pray for the repose of Gary’s soul and the comfort of his family.

Families Of Parishes’ Party Night 

On FRIDAY, 21st NOVEMBER - 7.00.pm. IN ST. MONICA’S PARISH CENTRE. Live music, refreshments, Raffle prizes and ‘spot the ball’. Tickets @   £10.00 each, available from Cathy on: 07564 903 324. And from Ann Kirby. Please note, tickets are going very quickly, so please get yours as soon as possible. It promises to be a great night - DON’T MISS OUT!

28th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

Once there was a young man who had never thought of donating blood. But then his father got very ill and was hospitalized. One day the son was sitting by his father’s bedside as he was getting a blood transfusion. As he watched the blood flowing into his father’s veins, he suddenly realised that someone had donated the blood that was now keeping his father alive. Straightaway he made up his mind to become a donor, and he was as good as his word. Many are willing to avail of the generosity of others, but few are willing to give something back. This is why gratitude is so important. It makes us want to give something back.

Prisoners' Sunday 

Prisoners’ Sunday is the national day of prayer and action for prisoners and their dependents as marked by the Catholic Church and across the Christian denominations. It is a day to direct our thoughts and prayers to prisoners, their families and children. Prisoners’ Sunday is the time to reflect on how we as individuals, as a Church and as a community are serving those affected by imprisonment.

Sunday Car Parking  

For the next 6-8 weeks, the Primary school is having work done on the cladding of their building. To do this the contractors will need to store their equipment on the car park. For security reasons we will not be able to use the car park on Sunday for Mass. Can I ask you to show some restraint when it comes to parking inside the Church grounds. Not everyone will fit in, and I would prefer if the access from our house is not blocked. Driving over the lawn in your car is not really acceptable!

The Irenaeus Centre: Women’s Weekend 

The Irenaeus Centre (L22 1RD) are hosting a Women’s Weekend from 18:00 on Friday 17 October to 13:00 on Sunday 19 October. Residential places are £95. Non-residential with meals is £70. Non-residential (self-catering) places are £30. For more information and to book please contact jenny@irenaeus.co.uk or telephone 01519491199 

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection

Jesus says: “Whoever is not with me is against me; and whoever does not gather with me scatters.” I sometimes feel that my life is like a scrubland, halfway between garden and desert. I sometimes feel that I live in a world of twilight, halfway between day and night. I sometimes feel like lukewarm water, halfway between hot and cold. I sometimes feel that I am in a state of indifference, halfway between love and hate. I sometimes feel I am trudging along a safe little path halfway between good and evil. Lord save me from the illusion that because I am not against you, I am therefore for you. Above all, save me from being neutral.

Evangelii Gaudium Sunday 

The Third Sunday in September, formerly called Home Mission Sunday, is now Evangelii Gaudium Sunday. Named after Pope Francis’ first (solo) Apostolic Exhortation on the Joy of the Gospel, the day offers the Catholic community in England and Wales the opportunity to be joyous in proclaiming the faith – seeking new ways of understanding the faith and reaching out to others.
Inspired by our ongoing Synodal process, Scripture, and Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium, we have chosen the theme ‘Growing as missionary disciples’. On the day itself, we can encourage the faithful to pray for our parish communities, that they would become intentionally missionary in their life and witness.

Formation For Catechists  

A day to help refresh your vocation of being a Catechist, facilitated by Sr Carino and Sr Hyacinthe of the Dominican sisters of St Joseph. There will be spiritual input and practical discussion of catechesis. The event is free, but bring a packed lunch. This will take place in the St Margaret Clitheroe Centre, on 27th September, 9.30am to 4pm. For more information, please contact Moses at m.mui@rcaol.org.uk.