Cathedral Church of St Marie, Sheffield Everyone Welcome

Cycle A – 17th February to 23rd February 2008

As we continue our Lenten journey, the Holy Father asks what we mean by "entering Lent." He writes that, “It means we enter a season of special commitment in the spiritual battle to oppose the evil present in the world, in each one of us and around us. It means looking evil in the face and being ready to fight its effects and especially its causes, even its primary cause which is Satan. It means not off-loading the problem of evil on to others, on to society or on to God but rather recognizing one's own responsibility and assuming it with awareness. In this regard Jesus' invitation to each one of us Christians to take up our "cross" and follow him with humility and trust is particularly pressing. Although the "cross" may be heavy it is not synonymous with misfortune, with disgrace, to be avoided on all accounts; rather it is an opportunity to follow Jesus and thereby to acquire strength in the fight against sin and evil. Thus, entering Lent means renewing the personal and community decision to face evil together with Christ. The way of the Cross is in fact the only way that leads to the victory of love over hatred, of sharing over selfishness, of peace over violence. Seen in this light, Lent is truly an opportunity for a strong ascetic and spiritual commitment based on Christ's grace.”Youth Mission and Ministry

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There will be a second collection at all Masses in support of the Diocesan Caring service. An appeal letter from Bishop John is on the notice board. Your continued support of the projects undertaken by the Caring Service is greatly appreciated.

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Fr Desmond - Your donations total £1400.00 - an announcement will be made shortly regarding a ‘leaving do’ and presentation.

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St Anthony’s Bread - February: Our nominated charity is Safe@Last

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‘In Reality’ Project
A fresh vision of Youth Mission and Ministry in the Diocese of Hallam
See the notice board, answer the questions - if the answers are ‘yes’ contact Judi Shimmell on 0114 256 6464 or email jshimmell@hallam-diocese.com

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Stations of the Cross
The Walsingham Association will lead the Stations of the Cross on Tuesdays at 12noon. Bishop John reminds us of the old tradition of people using the Stations of the Cross for their own needs and you are encouraged to walk around the Cathedral, stop and say a brief private prayer at each station during this season of Lent.

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Way of the Cross - Fridays in Lent
St Charles, Attercliffe invites you to walk the Way of the Cross with them every Friday evening during Lent. It begins at 7pm and is followed by Benediction.

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Lenten Fast Day - Friday 15th February
Please hand in your Lenten Fast Day envelopes at any of the Masses this weekend. If you are a UK taxpayer your gift would be worth more if you use the gift-aid declaration attached to the envelope.

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Parish Pastoral Council Meeting - Tuesday 19th February
St Marie’s PPC is holding a special meeting in the Houlden Hall at 8pm to discuss priorities for the coming year, promoting the Diocesan Assembly and raising the PPC's profile. All are welcome.

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Lenten Lunch - Wednesday 20th February
There will be a Lenten Lunch in the Parish Room after the 12.45pm Mass. All welcome

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Handicapped Children Pilgrimage Trust - Ceili - Friday 22nd February
To be held at the Crookes Social Club on Mulehouse Road, Sheffield 7.30pm for 8pm. There will be an Irish band & caller together with a performance from the local Irish Dancing School. The Club has a full bar. Adults £5.50, Children & Concessions £4.00 on the door. Proceeds to the Sheffield Group 160 HCPT.

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Walsingham Association - Saturday 23rd February
The annual Mass for deceased members is at 12.30pm here at St Marie’s. Buffet lunch and the AGM will take place afterwards in the Parish Room. Please book your lunch by contacting Joan Duggan on 0114 264 5694 - a small charge will be made. All are welcome.

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Women’s World Day of Prayer - Friday 7th March
This annual event is being hosted this year by St Marie’s and will begin at 11am. The service has been prepared by Christian Women of Guyana and the guest speaker will be Revd Dr Sarah Anne Hall of the United Reformed Church. All are welcome: men, women and young people

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Diocesan Assembly II - Saturday 5th April
A follow-up to the Diocesan Assembly three years ago takes place at Ecclesfield High School. This day will be for our deanery and will cover subjects such as: Youth, Pastoral Care, Liturgy/Spirituality, Adult Formation, Justice and Peace and Finances. The PPC are keen that St. Marie's is well represented. If you would like to take part, or have any questions, please contact Frances Taylor on 0114 240 0975 or email at - Frances.Taylor@stmariecathedral.org

Please do pray for the themes to be covered by the Assembly which are:
Spirituality, Faith Development and Liturgy, working to build the Parish Community and Reaching Beyond our Parish Boundaries in Mission, Evangelization and Justice & Peace.
Making Everybody Welcome - Saturday 12th April
A workshop designed to help parishes care for those suffering mental health issues together with their families and carers. This will take place at St Wilfred’s Centre from 9.30am to 3pm. Places are limited so please use the booking forms available at the back of the Cathedral if you would like to attend.

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CURSILLO - An Experience in Christian Living - 17th to 20th April
The next Hallam Cursillo will take place at Whirlow Grange Conference Centre, Ecclesall Road South, Sheffield. For further details contact Elizabeth Corcoran on 0114 236 9675

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St Thomas More Deanery Quiet Day - Sunday 13th April
Once again, our Quiet Day will take place at Mount St Mary’s, Spinkhill from 9.30am to 5pm. The theme for the day is ‘The Good Shepherd’. Booking is essential as numbers are limited and no one will be admitted without a prior booking. The cost is £10 - children go free. Please see the notice board for more details and how to book..

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Cathedral Office Hours
Monday 9.00am to 12.30pm: Tuesday 9.00am to 12.30pm/1.30pm to 4.00pm: Wednesday 9.00am to 12.30pm/1.30pm to 4.00pm: Friday 9.00am to 12.30pm. Callers during these times are requested to use the front door on Norfolk Street.