St Anthony of Padua Anerley

Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe (C)

Mass Readings: 167 – 169

Order of Mass: Pages 7 – 60

David had already been anointed king of Judah by his own people at Hebron. In this reading we hear how the northern tribes also acknowledge him as their king. Thus David became king of a united country. His kingship prefigured the universal kingship of Christ.

In the second reading we hear a liturgical hymn in praise of Christ. The first part speaks of his role in creation, the second of his role in redemption. On this feast we acclaim Christ as head of the Church and ruler of the universe.

In the Gospel we see how the inscription over the cross, and all those who witnessed the crucifixion ( the crowd, the rulers, the soldiers, and the thieves) unwittingly proclaim the true identity of Jesus.  The irony is that the titles, which are pronounced in mockery, are true; Jesus is both messiah and king.

The repentant thief gives hope to us all, but especially to those who come to the end of life and have nothing to show but the works of darkness. Even at the eleventh hour there exists the possibility of letting the light in.  Through his sheer goodness, Jesus turns our darkness into light.

Salvation is always a gift from God. God gives it most freely to those who know they are poor, and who ask for it with empty hands and expectant hearts—like the good thief.

Sunday Teas:

This Sunday’s teas will be served by the St Vincent de Paul Group.

Next Sunday’s teas will be served by the Flower Arrangers.

Thank you to all those who help out with the Sunday Teas.

Last Sunday’s Collections: The 1st collection was £541.43p + £243.05p in Gift Aid envelopes giving us a parish total of £784.48p.   The 2nd collection for Parish Funds was £98.91p. Thank you for your generosity. Today’s 2nd collection is for the Catholic Youth Service.

Recently Deceased: Please pray for the soul and family of Father Tom Creagh-Fuller. His most recent parishes were Forest Hill and Brixton. Further details of the funeral are to be announced.

May his soul rest in peace.

Please note: The presbytery office is closed on Wednesdays.

First Holy Communion Classes: Please note that the next classes will be on Saturdays 30th November from 10:30 – 11:45am (parents and children) in the Parish Centre (4 Genoa Road). Then on Saturday 14th December at 10.30am there will be the Parish Reconciliation Service.

Confirmation Classes: Please note the next classes will be on Thursdays, the 5th and 19th December at 7pm in the Parish Centre (4 Genoa Road).

A Warm Welcome: Fr Stuart has returned to the parish for a couple of days. He will be celebrating all masses until Wednesday 4th December.

Christmas Fair:  Please note that the Christmas Fair will be on Saturday 7th December.  All offers of help welcome.  Please note that donations for the Fair will be gratefully received.  Please note that saleable items only are wanted so please do not donate clothes, electrical items or out of date food or bottles.  Thank you.

Christmas Fair Hamper: The Knights of St Columba will be selling raffle tickets, for the popular Christmas Fair Hamper, after all weekend masses.  £1 per entry.

Repository Gifts: Please take a look at the range of cards and gifts available in the repository.  There are now advent calendars in stock.

Single, separated, widowed or divorced?  Catholic Singles is an organisation which helps single Catholics of all ages (over 18 years) meet other single Catholics, either one to one or through social events. For further information visit www.catholicsingles.org.uk or tel. 0161 941 3498

Please pray for the sick of the Parish: Mercie Ihekweme-Hill, and Michael Creech.

MASS TIMES AND INTENTIONS (24th Nov—1st Dec 2019)