Fr Tony writes.....

I want to say a big “Thank you” for your very generous response to the collection last weekend towards the costs of the Holy Father’s visit in September. The Diocese suggested a target figure for each parish. Our target was £1189, which I thought entirely unrealistic, but in fact you have given even more than they suggested. The collection amounted to£1992.35. Some 104 people gift- aided their offering. This came to £1289.93, and through the Gift Aid scheme a further £283.78 will come from the Inland Revenue. Thank you all very much.
The money is, of course, very welcome, but so also is the obvious enthusiasm of so many people who clearly want to welcome the Holy Father. We are waiting to hear details of the events that will be open for us to attend. I will let you know as soon as we have more information. Meanwhile I would ask you all to keep the Holy Father and his visit in your prayers during the next few weeks.
There will be a “Novena” of prayer here from Tuesday September 7th finishing on the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows on Wednesday September 15th, the day before the Holy Father arrives. There will be a special evening Mass on that day, followed by a parish party. More details nearer the time.