Over 40 members of the St Ethelbert’s Parish, Deane in Bolton visited the Shrine this weekend with their Parish Priest, Fr. Duncan. They had time to pray in the Shrine and time for one another while they shared light refreshments prepared and served by the Team of ladies from St John Fisher’s. Even though it was a cold but sunny day the brave and courageous took time to look around the grounds, visit the Cottage and have quiet time in the Shrine. he few hours in the afternoon passed very quickly and everyone enjoyed their day and they are looking forward to coming again next year. If you would like to download a copy of the report click here

Today we had the first of the Parish Shrine Days.  34 Visitors came from St Kentigern’s Fallowfield and St Edward’s Rushholm Parish to spend the day at the Shrine. They were welcomed by the St. John Fisher’s team of ladies who looked after the pilgrims.  The day was very successful and both young and old enjoyed there stay and hope to come again. If you would like to read the report on the day then download this news report. The group were happy to get to know the Shrine.  Nine teenagers took part and they had their own programme in the newly renovated Cottage. Some of the young people had been there with their school for an Amigo Day or for one of the programmes for High Schools. They had time in the Shrine and time to enjoy one another’s company. Fr. Bryan gave a talk on the meaning of the Shrine – a holy place where we can live in God’s presence and search to do his will. The group found out a lot about Schoenstatt and enjoyed being looked after by our team from St John Fisher’s. They hoped to come again and we look forward to welcoming them.

At the beginning of our Covenant  Mass in April Father David  blessed the foundations of the future Mosaic Prayer Garden. Since September last year a group centred around Paul McEvoy have worked to put in pathways and the foundation for the Mosaic Prayer Garden. This Mosaic, designed by Paul Cooper, portrays the Prayers of the Office written by Fr. Kentenich while he was a prisoner in Dachau. His response to this most difficult situation was to believe in God’s care. Let us pray together:

The sun makes ready for the night and invites us to enter the Cenacle.

There you implored the Spirit for the Church who freed her from the scourge of half-heartedness, guided her to the teaching of Christ and enkindled in her the spirit of the apostles and the martyrs.

That is how you want to work in our shrine: strengthening our weak eyes of faith so that we might see life as God sees it and always walk by heaven’s light.

In this light of faith let me see how the Father’s love wished to accompany me today. Let loyalty to our mission be my thanksgiving for the boundless gifts he has showered on me in love.

Glory be joyfully given to the Father through Christ with Mary, highly praised, in the Holy Spirit full of splendor from the universe now and in all eternity. Amen.

Prayer and adoration for Vocations from 11am – this will be followed by mass.

Gathering of Young Adults who want to live their lives of faith int he World today. Mass followed by meeting in the Cottage…

Gathering of Young Adults who want to live their lives of faith int he World today. Mass followed by meeting in the Cottage…

Gathering of Young Adults who want to live their lives of faith int he World today. Mass followed by meeting in the Cottage…