Two weeks ago Fr.Rory read a letter to us all from the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales concerning child abuse in the Catholic Church. They asked us all to make the Fridays in May special days of prayer, asking God for healing, forgiveness and a renewed dedication. We are asked to pray for all who have suffered abuse; for those who have mishandled these matters, and for those who have committed these sins of abuse. We pray also for Pope Benedict for his leadership in the Church. We pray for, and give thanks to, those who are involved in the work of safeguarding. We pray for the many laity, priests and clergy who devote themselves with energy and generosity in their service in parishes, in schools, youth ventures and the care of the sick and elderly. In all this work the Holy Spirit guides those who strive to show their love and generosity towards those in need.
With this in mind Fr.Rory and I propose that the remaining Fridays of May be devoted to special prayer. Next Friday there will be Stations of the Resurrection at 9.30am. On Friday 21st May the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available during Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. The last Friday of the month, May 28th, will be devoted to a special Rosary for the prayer intentions asked for by the Bishops. These events will all be at St.George’s at 9.30am before Mass.
We also wish to mark these intentions in St.Wilfrid’s by having the Church open from 10am to 4pm on Friday 14th, 21st and 28th May thereby giving many the opportunity to pray before the Lord in the Tabernacle. We hope that as many parishioners as possible will take advantage of these opportunities to pray for the intentions requested by our Bishops.
With my love and prayers for you all.
