Last month on the 12th March, Archbishop John Wilson, launched a Diocesan network entitled CARITAS Southwark to co-ordinate “our practical loving service of others, putting faith into action.”  This day was also the Sunday when Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman and promised new life, living waters – eternal life. All this, particularly the word CARITAS [A Latin word meaning ...

Of all the saints, St David (Dewi Sant) is the least celebrated and understood by the Catholic Church. Yet, Welsh (Cymraeg) is one of the oldest languages in Europe. Spoken by the people in Wales, in some areas of west England and Scotland, this is the language used when the Romans invaded these Isles. It was commonly used until at ...

Spring symbolises new beginnings and transformations. It brings the possibility of fresh starts, of new life. Most of us acquire an added spring in our step and become “full of the joys of Spring.” We are told that “Hope springs eternal” and this happens particularly, when warm winds sooth our weary bones and long sunny days, blooming flowers and happy ...

“For last year’s words belong to last year’s language.  And next year’s words await another voice.”    (TS Eliot) As we bid farewell to an old year and welcome 2024, we move into a space of thanksgiving, reflection, hope, possibility, and expectation. And while new year resolution may often evoke a bad press for encouraging unrealistic goals and placing unnecessary pressure, ...

January is the quietest month in the garden… But just because it looks quiet doesn’t mean that nothing is happening. Every gardener knows that under the cloak of winter lies a miracle… A seed waiting to sprout, a bulb opening to the light, a bud straining to unfurl.  And the anticipation nurtures our dreams. Barbara Winkler (www. A-Mused Winter Collage, ...

In North America just recently and in Canada last month, the people celebrated Thanksgiving. I have always envied these countries for this time of family celebration and giving thanks for all that has been over the year and to look forward in hope for what the New Year might bring – not only by way of a healthy harvest, but ...

“Just Passing Through” by Sr Mary Frances Collett, RNDM During my regular walks in the very beautiful cemetery of Houston where my parish church of St.Fillan’s is situated, I am always drawn to one particular grave. There is a photograph of a young man standing with his bicycle. Underneath is inscribed the words: “I will just gather my bits and ...

Remembering and cherishing what we have had. Already we can see the end of the year fast approaching. Many say, “Where has this year gone, already we are facing a long winter?” “This year has just simply flown by!” All those lovely summer months and extended warm days have simply gone and now just a passed memory. Yet, certain things ...

 The glories of Mary have been enshrined in the heart of the Church; she is part of scripture and of the liturgy. She has been honoured in Arts, Poetry and Song; she holds a secure place in the hearts of the faithful; she is the greatest of all saints, the sinless one born without original sin and indeed free from ...

As I set off on Avanti West from Euston, I remember the Italian word Avanti means “go ahead.” As the train leaves the station and picks up speed, I began to watch the lovely green fields and farm lands, the cattle and sheep grazing on the green meadows, it was indeed a beautiful sight. We arrived mid-afternoon at Glasgow and ...