Nota Bene

This page is given over to notices that have appeared in the on line bulletin but which remain of interest to readers following their appearance. Other notices that will (hopefully!) be of interest will also appear here.

Music plays an important part in our worship. Those who sing at 9:30am on Sundays are always looking for recruits to help - they rehearse at 4pm on Saturdays in church and welcome anyone to come along and join them. The choir at the 11am Mass will resume their Saturday morning practise on Saturday 30th September. A sincere thank you form all of us to those who make our music.

Because this area is one of high mobility (a third of the population of Hackney changes each year) our congregation is constantly welcoming new members, but we also have to see others move away. We are very fortunate in the number and quality of Catechists that we have - but we are are always looking for new recruits. If you feel that God may be asking you to help in the formation of a new generation of Christians why not speak to one of the priests, who will put you in touch with one of the existing catechists? Our catechetical programmes involve those preparing for Baptism, for First Holy Communion, for Confirmation, and for adult instruction (RCIA) - so whatever age you feel most comfortable with, we can find a slot for you!

Do you know someone who is thinking of becoming a Catholic? People who want to become Catholics can be a little nervous about making the first step. If there are people thinking of being received into the Church then it is usually very appropriate for them to make the journey together with others in a group which begins in September: the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).

Please be very careful about parking on the street outside the church on Sundays. Parking restrictions apply on Sundays as well as on other days of the week. Make sure you park in a designated position, or on a single yellow line: even better, use the spaces which are provided all around the church building: if car drivers were to be more economical in the use of our grounds (e.g.: by parking right along the right hand side of the church) there would be room for many more vehicles.

Not long ago, a faithful Catholic died and her family chose to hold the funeral outside the Catholic Church - something which she would not have wished for. Everyone ought to leave clear instructions as to the funeral they want. For a Catholic that should always involve the body being brought to church and the celebration of Mass. This is important because it is never too late to pray for the forgiveness of the sins of someone deceased, and to pray that they may come into the glory of Heaven. God is not confined by time. Though the moment passes for us, it does not for Him; thus, He is able to hear all our prayers and answer them. And the Mass is the greatest prayer of all because it is the very sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross re-presented by the priest with the faithful, and God always listens to His Son.

Mobile Phones: Obviously the notices on the porch doors are too discreet! Please turn your mobile phone off when coming into church. It is hugely distracting when they ring and disturb our worship. Please do not cause offence in this way