Reflection
The Bishops of England and Wales invite us to keep this Sunday as a day of prayer for world peace. Pope Leo has chosen the theme: Peace be with you all: Towards an ‘unarmed and disarming’ peace. This is a daunting goal in the light of the widespread belief that we must be armed, even with nuclear weapons, to protect ourselves. Both Pope Leo and a recent statement from our own Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales (Called to be Peacemakers) indicate that peace should not rely on fear, threats or weapons. Peace should have the capacity to resolve conflicts and open hearts through mutual understanding and hope. The phrase ‘Peace be with you’ is an integral part of our Liturgy in each Mass. We are all invited to be peacemakers. Let us start in our own hearts, asking forgiveness, and praying that we will be people of peace in a world of violence.
Second collections
The second collection this weekend is for the work of SPUC.
The second collection next weekend is for LEPRA, helping those who suffer from leprosy.
Church unity week and service
To mark Christian Unity Week, the Churches together in Bootle and Litherland are having a Unity Service in St Philip’s Church, Orrell Road. L21 8NG at 7.30pm on Monday 19th January. Everyone is welcome to join us for this service.
New deanery women’s group
The first meeting for the new women's group in the deanery will take place on Thursday 29th January at St Helens centre Crosby.
Tea and coffee 7pm to start discussion at 7.30pm. Ample parking available. All women of every age welcome, to share faith & friendship. Also your views about starting this group are important.
Further information from mpmmurphypat@aol.com
Funeral
The funeral service for Louise McKenzie will take place here in St James’ on Tuesday 20th January at 2.30pm.
Please pray for the repose of Louise’s soul and the comfort of her family.