From this Sunday, 9 February, we will be introducing an Offertory Procession at the 11:15 Mass. The event is quite simple, but the significance is profound: we bring bread and wine to the altar, symbolically offering to God the fruit of the earth and the work of human hands. God then, through the Holy Spirit, transforms the ordinary into the Body and Blood of his Son, Jesus. In our communion with Jesus, we are transformed by the power of God.

We are looking for volunteers each week to bring forward the bread and wine to the altar — a family can be any number from two to six (or more if needs be!). All the family has to do is collect the gifts of bread and wine from the table at the side of the church, wait at the back until the collectors are ready, and then come forward together, giving the gifts to the priest. If your family can sign up for a Sunday, maybe once or every couple of months, this would be a great service to our liturgy.

You can sign on the list at the back of church, or put any questions you have to me. Thank you in advance! Fr Ed

Blessing of Couples
In the Church’s calendar, 14 February is the Feast of Ss Cyril and Methodius, co-patrons of Europe, two brothers responsible for taking major initiatives in the evangelisation of Eastern Europe. At the same time, popularly in many cultures, 14 February is the Feast of S. Valentine, and is the feast of lovers: a romantic day when couples celebrate their love for each other. Taking account of the fact that we do not often celebrate, in general, loving, committed relationships, we will do so on Sunday 16 February, with a special blessing of couples. Come along with your loved one, and hear words of blessing, in the name of God who is love (1 John 4:8).

Many, many thanks to all who helped make our celebration of Colin Buckland’s musical contribution to our parish so special. The music group, led by Colin, set the tone, with a joyful liturgical endeavour. Clare on the organ provided the necessary grandeur, and the whole Mass was a blessed experience. Regan Otte, on behalf of the Parish Council, praised Colin’s tireless contribution to our English-speaking parish for over 30 years, and announced that there was a considerable presentation from the parish to enable Colin and Ann to enjoy further their years of retirement. The reception afterwards, held in the couvent, was a great celebration — so many people contributed food, energy, time and presence — the one refrain that was heard repeatedly was ‘Why don’t we do this more often?’. Watch this space! Thank you again to all who contributed to the Mass and to the celebration afterwards. And to Colin, ‘Ad multos Annos!’

Feast of the Presentation of the Lord

Readings: 

First Reading: Malachi 3:1-4 The prophet foretells the entry of the Messiah into the Temple; the Baby Jesus is shown as ‘the One who is to come’

Second Reading: Hebrews 2:14-18 Christ became human so that he could, from within, as it were, save human flesh from the power of the devil

Gospel: Luke 2:22-40 Jesus is presented in the Temple as required by the Law of Moses; Simeon prophesies concerning him, and Anna proclaimed him.

Mass music for 2 February, Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
Entry hymn:           747 The Light of Christ
Penitential rite:     Sprinkling with holy water (Asperges)
Gloria: Lourdes 527
Alleluia: Lourdes
Offertory : 603 Blest are you, Lord, God of all creation
Holy, Holy, Holy: responsorial, unaccompanied
Acclamation:  responsorial, unaccompanied
Our Father: said
Lamb of God: Lourdes
Communion Music:  Instrumental Cantilène religieuse (T. Dubois)
Communion Hymn: Christ be beside me 910
Final Hymn: Now let your servant go in peace 177 (tune 679)

I received the following email from a young man in Goa. Are you able to give him the advice he is looking for? If so, send me an email and I’ll put you in touch.

Thanks, Fr Ed.

“hello Fr.Ed,
I came across your email through European Parish of Luxembourg website. My name is Daryl Colaco, I am 29 years male from Goa, India. I am Catholic (RC), I belong to cortalim parish and my church is St.Philip and St .James.

I am about to get Portuguese citizenship as my province Goa in India was a former Portuguese colony. I hold a masters degree in accounts, have worked in India as well gulf and am writing to you as I have plans to relocate to EU with my new citizenship.
I have been in contact with a Luxembourg native through web search, whom I intend to rent out initially, but I would like to know from you how is the job market in Luxembourg? is it possible to get a job if you are fluent in English and have some basic knowledge of French.
Please let me know your thoughts.”