Dear friends,
(This post was prepared before details of the funeral Mass of the late Erma Fernandes were finalised. We extend also our sincere condolences, and the assurance of our prayers, to Pat Edwards and her family, as they grieve her husband Phil: may he too rest in peace.)
Greetings from Walsingham, and the first of two pilgrimages from Kenton to England’s Nazareth this month: I am here, taking part in the Walsingham Youth Pilgrimage, with three of our young people – who are joining hundreds of others from around and beyond this country, for five days of lively worship, teaching, fellowship and fun. Thank you to all whose support and sponsorship has made this possible: please keep us in your prayers – as we are praying for you, at the feet of Our Lady. In case of any pastoral need before my return tomorrow evening, please speak to Fr Mike.
Later in August, on Bank Holiday Monday (31 August), we will return to the Shrine, for the Pilgrimage for Healing and Renewal: the coach is now fully booked – but please let me know if you wish to be placed on a waiting list, for any spare places which may yet come available. Those joining this pilgrimage should gather in church on the day at 7.15am, and bring a packed lunch (as well, perhaps, as a picnic blanket and/or folding chair).
I wrote last week about the terrible fire which had gutted the church of St Andrew, Jarrom Street in Leicester, where our friend Canon Johannes Arens is the parish priest: anyone wishing to contribute to the rebuilding costs can do so here.
Included with this mailing is a flier for the upcoming Mary’s Meals central London (one-day) pilgrimage, “Journeying with Saints and Scholars”. Starting at Westminster Cathedral, pilgrims will walk alongside the River Thames into the City, ending by St Paul’s. Along the route, they will visit places of faith and of scholarly interest – truly with something of interest for everyone. Sign up here.
This Sunday’s Gospel reading describes how the faith of St Peter waxed and waned in the face of the wind and the storm on the Sea of Galilee, as the Lord walked ahead of him on the water: we are reminded in turn always to hold fast to the outstretched hands of Jesus, however strong or not our faith may feel; for he is our refuge and our strength in every trial and tribulation.
[The Lord’s] glory will dwell in our land,
Fr Richard