The Third “Gaudete” Sunday of Advent
Let’s be ‘giving’ people …
Dear Friends
Please find the introduction to the Newsletter written by Mary Greaves
This week I’m looking at the call to generosity during Advent.Advent is a season rich in generosity, reflecting the Christian belief that God gave the ultimate gift of His Son to the world. During this time, we are encouraged to give, whether through gifts, acts of service, or donations, as a reflection of God’s love for us; but this spirit of giving extends beyond material gifts. Advent challenges us to share our time, kindness, and presence with others, embodying Christ’s teachings. It’s a season to care for the marginalised, feed the hungry, and bring comfort to those in need.Generosity is the gift we can all possess. We are especially drawn to acts of kindness at this time of year, with the emphasis on giving, highlighting a universal desire to make the world a better place. Many traditions, such as participating in food donations, visiting the housebound, helping a neighbour in need or just giving a smile to someone, aligns with the spirit of the season. The focus shifts from self to others, fostering a sense of community and shared humanity.Advent reminds us that generosity is more than an action; it’s an attitude of the heart. Whether motivated by faith or simply by a desire to spread goodwill, the call to give during this season unites people in a shared mission of hope and love.
Remember that “In the spirit of Advent, it’s the small acts of kindness that make the biggest miracles.” Mary Greaves
Newsletter 15th December 2024
We had a well-attended Carols for Peace and collected £320.00 (plus donation from a family from Liverpool of £100.00). This will help fund the Bolton Sunday Kitchen for the Homeless which supplies a Sunday meal to over 40 people in Bolton every week. Some of our parishioners are in the team buying and cooking the food which is the distributed on Sunday afternoon.
You are invited to our Advent Covenant Mass at St John Fisher’s and the Shrine
on Saturday 21st December 2024 at 2.00pm
God Bless
Fr Reginald, Fr Herbert and Fr Bryan