On Wednesday next, 3rd February, we celebrate the feast of St Blaise; traditionally he is the patron saint of throats ‘and of other illnesses’. The Blessing of St Blaise, given with two crossed candles, asks the Lord’s protection from illnesses of the throat, and maladies in general. The blessing will be given during the 07:30 Mass at St Alphonse (in English), and during the 18:30 Mass (in French). All welcome.

Fr Ed

Gerry O’Connor (Irish fiddle) and Gilles Le Bigot (Breton guitar) are in concert together this Wednesday evening, 3rd February, the event being sponsored by the Irish cultural association Comhaltas. Details of the concert can be found on the flyer, below.

Fr Ed

Thinking about becoming a Catholic? Want to know more?

If you are not a Catholic, and would like to find out more about the Catholic faith, are almost convinced you wish to be received into the Church, or have already decided you wish to become a Catholic, we have good news! Our parish is now introducing Journey in Faith, a course which aims to help and accompany you.

We have an increasing number of enquiries from people wanting to find out more about our Catholic Christian faith; some attend Mass every week, others discover us via this site; some are following their friends’ recommendations… each journey is unique. If you want to know more, to make the next step, or to understand more about what makes Catholics tick, Journey in Faith is for you.

We’re beginning with a social evening — you are invited to come along for something to eat, something to drink (wine or soft drinks) followed by an introduction to Journey in Faith. Reserve the date, Monday 7th March 2016, 19h00.

The Journey in Faith team includes myself and 8 or so ordinary parishioners, some of whom themselves were welcomed into the Church after following a similar course. No strings attached, you can come along just to see what’s happening, to ask questions, or to sign up on-the-spot…

If you’re interested, have questions, or want to give advice, please let me know.

Thank you,
Fr Ed

The Red Cross Refugee Aid programme for help at the Gasperich centre, where so many of you have volunteered to help at meal times, has now broadened its appeal and is looking for volunteers in several areas: language courses, learning support, recreational activities, and children’s play resources. Please visit our Refugee Aid page.

Thank you,

Fr Ed

The Diakonia Service, based in Limpertsberg parish, distributes clothes and other items to people in need. They have issued an urgent appeal for food items — tinned food, packet food, dried soups, pasta and rice — anything non-perishable. If you can donate anything of this sort, please bring it to Mass the next time you come. There will be a large basket to receive donations of food — all will be gratefully received.

Thank you,

Fr Ed