Parish Past Events and Photos 2010 back
DECEMBER 2010
Goodbye and thank you to Fr. Seamus and a warm welcome to Fr Andrew, seen here with Deacon Tim and the servers at the crib at St. Teresa's, following his Christmas Mass.
Photos: Janet Franklin
Funeral of Sr. Denise Wood
“A star studded life of service” summed up Sr. Denise Wood, artist and mathematician, of the Congregation of St. Dorothy.
Sr. Doreen, the Regional Superior, paying tribute to her friend and colleague, said Sr. Denise joined the Dorotheans in her early twenties, first qualifying as a music teacher. She went on to gain a B.A. in education in the United States. She spent much of her life teaching Maths, English, Italian, Needlework, Music, Catechism and giving Religious Instruction. Knitting was a great hobby; in breaks between marking piles of exercise books, and right through until her last days. She also embroidered beautiful altar cloths which are much treasured.
In 1975 she was elected Counsellor to the Mother General of the Congregation for a period of six years. Next she was elected Provincial of Malta and U.K., being one province for the Dorotheans. Later she became Superior of 2 convents in Malta (Sliema and Mdina) and finally Redhill.
Whilst keeping a humble and low profile, she was prayerful, a natural leader, a great organiser, and often used her keen sense of humour to diffuse a situation. Her example motivated others to pray assiduously and work without counting the cost.
Christian
symbols, crucifix, book of the gospels, and photograph of St.
Paula Frassinetti, foundress of the Congregation.
The Chief Celebrant at her Funeral Mass was Rt. Rev. Stephen Ortiger O.S.B.who explained the clergy were all wearing white vestments which symbolised Victory. He described God as “playing a blinder” when He sent His Son to be born as a human, suffer, and die like us, and conquer death in his Resurrection, the wounds afterwards still visible on his body. The Christian life is not about escape. “Smashed to pieces; name the reality - do not fantasise; Sr. Denise now shares Christ’s victory over death. Rejoice in her and our faith”
Despite the snow many struggled through but, unfortunately, because of the snow priests from parishes further afield, parishioners, and other mourners were unable to attend.
Text: Ann Lardeur
Members of Gatton Community Theatre presented a dramatic reading of Nativity by John Durnin at St Joseph's on Saturday 4th December at 7.30 pm.
Nativity, previously performed at Gatton Park in 2001 and 2004, was written especially for adult audiences and through storytelling explores some of the human experiences of the characters. The play, and now this dramatic reading, includes some of the more painful aspects of the Gospels – the slaughter of the innocents and the flight into Egypt – as well as the more uplifting elements of Matthew’s and Luke’s accounts. It includes very human versions of Joseph’s trial of faith and the shepherds encounter with Gabriel from the great medieval Mystery plays. It also creates parts of the story for which there is no source, Mary and Joseph’s first meeting, for example, or their wedding. It is beautifully written and an inspiring experience for audiences.
Photos: Janet Franklin
NOVEMBER 2010
Fireworks display, bonfire, BBQ burgers, hot dogs, mulled wine and hot drinks, ending with a disco - another successful evening put on by 17th Reigate (St. Jospeh's) Scout Group. They have had put on the event, which brings people from all over the parish together, for decades.
The 17th Reigate has been going for 95 years; it was founded in 1915 only 8 years after Baden-Powell held the first trial camp on Brownsea Island. Fr. Charles M Westlake, then the parish priest in Redhill, was the first scoutmaster; subscription for scouts was 2 pennies a week and 1 for cubs. No longer a movement just for boys, girls are now scouts too.
Whilst there have been lean times in the past, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers are all flourishing. They meet in St. Joseph's Parish Centre. Beavers (aged 6-8) provide a good introduction, having fun and games and learning to work together. Cubs (8-10 1/2) start activites including traditional hiking and camping. Scouts, (up to age 14) and Explorer Scouts (14-18) do extensive hiking and extreme camping even in snow.
Other activities on offer range from swiming and cooking (indoor and out) through to sailing, canoeing, and raft building plus a myriad of opportunities young people would otherwise not have the opportunity to experience. Further infomation from Group Scout Leader Chris Dott 17th.reigate@gmail.com.
Photo by Chris Dott: "At the Ready" - Firework crew (l-r) Tony Brown, Mike Phillipson, Peter Fawcett
OCTOBER 2010
Anniversary Marriage Mass - 9th October
Bishop Kieran celebrated an Anniversary Mass at St Joseph's Church on Saturday 9th October at 11.30am. Parishioners from across the Diocese attended and anniversaries being celebrated ranged from 70 years to 5 years (or maybe less)
Couples renewing their vows
Photos: Chris Franklin
Thanks from Fr Kevin
I was deeply touched by the kindness and generosity of everybody when I returned for my Farewell Mass & Party. It was great to see so many of you, despite the bad weather! Also, it was lovely to share the next morning in Sr Helen’s celebration. Thanks for all the cards and gifts - undeserved but very gratefully received. Be assured always of my love and prayers. Fr Kevin
Sr Helen's Diamond Jubilee - 2nd October
When Sr. Helen Mizzi, celebrated her diamond jubilee as a Sister of St. Dorothy, on Saturday 2nd October a large congregation filled St Joseph's Church Redhill to honour her and the faithful service she, together with the other members of her Community, have given to the parish. The Mass was celebrated by Dom Stephen Ortiger OSB Abbot Emeritus of Worth who is now Episcopal Vicar for Religious in the Diocese. Sr Helen was joined by many relatives from her native Malta who had flown in especially for the occasion, a huge surprise as it was all arranged in secret. Also present from Malta was Sr. Doreen, the regional Superior of the Sisters of St. Dorothy.
Fr Stephen, in his homily, said Sr Helen has touched the lives of many in the community. It was particularly appropriate that the Mass should be for the Guardian Angels as Sr Helen, over the years, has been a guardian angel to many in need. Fr Laurence Quin Morris made a presentation to Sr Helen, including a Papal Blessing, a gift token and a bouquet. Then refreshments were served and the celebration continued with a special cake decorated with the Maltese Cross.
Photos: Pam Dysart Text: Keith Donachie
Fr Kevin's Farewell Mass and Party - 1st October
St. Teresa's, Merstham, was the appropriate venue for Fr. Kevin Dring's farewell celebration on 1st October, being their patronal feast. Servers, musicians and readers were drawn from all three churches.
In his homily Fr. Kevin focussed on St. Teresa's example and teaching on being a little child before God. Fr. Kevin had been asked by a child "Are you God?" Teresa's answer would be "No, you are not God but you are a precious, cherished child of God and He wants you to be filled with his love for you and to let that love flow into everyone and everything around you. Your life is inseparable from God and your happiness will only be real and full if you find dit in God." He pointed out with all her emphasis on obscurity, littleness, and childlikeness, dying age 24, and writing just one book, she is a Doctor of the Church. Her influence is felt throughout the world; she is patron of the Missions, and Priests, and a shining guide to us all.
At the end of Mass Fr. Kevin was presented with a handsome cheque and a case of wine.
When it came to the partying the Catenians were in charge of the wine and the UCM co-ordinated the food - all contributing to a memorable occasion. The cake, produced by a Merstham parishioner, illustrated Fr. Kevin's journeying from the Andes of 'Darkest Peru' to our parish, represented by nativity figures, and on to his present parish of The Sacred Heart, Hove.
Photos and text: Ann Lardeur
SEPTEMBER 2010
Healing Mass - 28th September
Friendly off-duty Firemen got Mrs Mary Wilson to the Church on time! Only a few months short of her 100th Birthday, she was due to attend the Healing Mass at St. Joseph's, Redhill, on 28th September. It seemed impossible when the lift at her Care Home broke down the day before since there was no other way of getting her down. The firemen, friends of Mrs. Marian Buck, Mary's daughter, 'rescued' her by carrying her down the stairs and returning her in the same fashion after the service.
In his homily Fr. Laurence Quin-Morris, quoting Pope Benedict's address at St. Peter's Residence in Vauxhall "Every generation can learn from the experience and wisdom of the generation that preceded it", remarked on the a great pool of wisdom present in the Church at this very moment. He said "We all owe much to the older members of society, and care of the elderly is a repayment of a debt of gratitude." He added, at 83, Pope Benedict particularly identifies himself with all of you here today.
Turning to the Gospel, Fr Laurence said “Jesus’ was a unique ministry of reaching out to young and old alike bringing healing, reconciliation and peace. He continues this through the Sacrament of Anointing. Implicit is this Sacrament is, not only Christ's outreach to those of you suffering under the burden of years, but also His forgiveness for any sins committed through human frailty which is Christ's gift every time we are anointed.”
We are delighted to have Fr. Seamus Hester helping out each weekend for the next few months whilst we await the arrival of Fr. Andrew Moss on completion of his studies in Canada.
Photos and text: Ann Lardeur
Parish Pilgrims Papal Pictures
Photos 1-7 taken by Alex Ramsden and photo 8 by Abigail McDermott
Pope Benedict’s Visit to the United Kingdom
It was with great delight and joy that, at the invitation of Her Majesty The Queen, Pope Benedict visited the United Kingdom from September 16th – 19th.
His visit was the first ever official Papal Visit to the UK. The visit of Pope John Paul II in 1982 was a pastoral visit only.
Pope Benedict was received by the Queen at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh. Among other significant moments of the visit were a public Mass in Glasgow, a major address in Westminster Hall, meetings with other Christian leaders and leaders of other major faiths. There was a prayer vigil in London and the beatification of Cardinal John Henry Newman, which took place at a public Mass in Coventry.
This was a historic moment in the life of the Catholic community in the United Kingdom and a time of blessing and grace for all who live in the United Kingdom.
AUGUST 2010
Music in the Garden - 21st August 2010
A very enjoyable musical evening with QuintetPlus was held in St Teresa's Church on Saturday 21st August, the weather being somewhat inclement for the event to be held in the garden. The programme included light classical music, blues, jazz, a ditty of Joyce Grenfell's and medleys from the likes of Abba, The Beatles, Glenn Miller and Frank Sinatra.
Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage 2010
This took place from 26th July - 6th August.
Click here for the official Lourdes web site
Click here for the Grotto Webcam
Click here for the Basilica of the Rosary
Click here for more information from our diocese
JULY 2010
Merstham in Bloom
Congratulations to St. Teresa's Gardening Team who were awarded joint first prize in the Community Category.
JUNE 2010
Gerard Hatton:
“Along with his parents Jenny and Wendelle and all the family we offer our warmest congratulations to Gerard Hatton of our parish who was ordained to the Diaconate by Bishop Kieran on Saturday 26th June at St John’s Seminary, Wonersh. Gerard is currently on placement in the Parish of Christ the Prince of Peace, Weybridge and we very much look forward to his Priestly Ordination sometime in 2011. Please remember Gerard and all the Seminarians in your prayers.”
Gerard was born on 31st January 1980, son of Jennifer and Wendelle Hatton. He grew up in Redhill and went to St Joseph’s Primary School and then on to St Bede’s. He entered the seminary when he was 21 and will be Ordained into the Diaconate on 26th June. He is currently assisting in the Parish of Christ the Prince of Peace, Weybridge. He would be grateful for our prayers and looks forward to coming back soon to visit us in the Parish.
Following Jesus – Living our Faith
It was really lovely to see so many young people in our Parish make a new commitment to their faith journey last weekend as they made their first Holy Communion (and we have this Sunday some more children at Holy Family who will do the same). This is also an expression not only of their own faith but also that of their families who have supported them and followed with them over the months of their preparation. This is a journey that they all started in Baptism and St. Paul reminds us that we are all one family through our Baptism and also heirs to the Kingdom of God promised to Abraham. It might seem that as a Parish we have reached the end of the season of sacraments, with Confirmations last month, first Holy Communion this month and not forgetting our Parish birthday on Pentecost. All through the year Baptism quietly continues to add new members to our Parish family and the Christian community. As we do take a pause at this time it is good to formally thank all those who support the Clergy in preparing young people for the sacraments.
House Clearance Sale – Holy Family
On Saturday 12th June a large number of parishioners attended a House Clearance Sale in Holy Family, Reigate. This was to clear the Priest’s House of unused items. Nearly £1,500 was raised for the Parish.
Thanks to Icona Miles and her team for all their hard work.
A couple of years ago I was lucky enough to go on pilgrimage to the Holy Land. It was an unforgettable experience and one I will remember for the rest of my life. The above photo is of me standing by a statue of my namesake, one of the great figures of the Old Testament, King David, who features in this Sunday’s first reading.
David was a fine man and most of the time was very faithful to the Lord, but he, just like the rest of us, had severe shortcomings. Having slept with Uriah’s wife, Bathsheba, David finds that she is pregnant and decides to dispose of her husband. David sends Uriah to the front line to be killed in combat and the passage from our first reading sees David being made aware of his wrong and truly shameful actions. His is struck to the heart, sees exactly what he has done, and immediately repents.
The reading is paralleled by the woman in the Gospel who washes
Jesus’ feet with her tears. The woman is only too aware of her
own sinfulness but, aware of this, she acts with such great love
towards Jesus who she knows is the only one who can save her.
Jesus, having been shown such great love, forgives her entirely.
These two stories can give us such hope! No-one, absolutely no-one is beyond the love of God. No-one is too bad or too wretched. In fact, we are all in the same boat, the sinner’s boat, and that is exactly why we come to Church on Sunday, because Jesus is the only one who can forgive us all the wrong things we do that separate us from God.
It is sadly already time for me to leave the parish. I have had a wonderful time here on placement and I thank you all sincerely for making me feel so welcome. It has been a privilege for me to be with you even for such a short time and I have enjoyed meeting you all very much. Please do keep me in your prayers and pray too for more vocations to the priesthood! A huge big congratulations to all those making their First Holy Communion this weekend, I’m sure all the celebrations will go fine and I’m so glad I will be here to witness your first very special encounter with Jesus himself in the Eucharist.
God bless you all,
David King
MAY 2010
Confirmation and the Going Forth Mass
On Friday 21st May 2010, 43 young people of the Parish of the Nativity of the Lord were confirmed by Bishop Kieran at St Joseph’s Church, Redhill. The evening was a culmination of an eight month course, in which the candidates had been prepared to receive the sacrament and been given the opportunity to explore their faith. This had included a weekend retreat to the SPEC centre in St Albans in November. The actual evening was an exciting time for the candidates and their families. The candidates later commented about the good atmosphere at the Mass and the fact that there was a lot of nervous energy in the room! A number of candidates also said that Bishop Kieran’s homily had really meant something to them, and they felt he had captured their feelings, fears and anxieties about being Confirmed and what it meant.
A Going Forth Mass was held on Sunday 6th June, in which some of the candidates received their certificates and later had a BBQ with their catechists. It was a good opportunity to reflect upon the course and to share food together. A big thank you should be said to all the recently Confirmed for their commitment to the course and also to the team of catechists, who had given up a lot of time and effort to prepare the candidates.
Abigail McDermott
1ST ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS OF THE PARISH OF THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD
On Saturday 22nd May 2010, the Vigil of Pentecost Sunday, a Celebration was held at St Joseph’s Church to mark the first anniversary of the inauguration of the Parish of the Nativity of the Lord.
The evening consisted of a Mass at 6 pm, concelebrated by Frs. Laurence, Kevin and Charles, together with Deacon Tim.
This was a family Mass with a special Children’s Liturgy and musical participation by children from St Joseph’s School.
The children presented their special offertory laid in front of the altar
The Homily consisted of an unusual, sometimes entertaining, and certainly interesting question and answer session between Frs. Kevin and Charles on their personal experience of the Holy Spirit.
The joyous sing was lead by the choir.
After Mass everyone was invited to a party with a shared supper in the Parish Centre.
But before we all rushed for the food and drink, David King was introduced to us. He is a Seminarian and will be spending 3 weeks in our Parish.
The evening concluded with a Pentecost Prayer Vigil with speaker John Vaughan-Neil explaining the role of the Holy Spirit in parish life.
Happy Anniversary!
Photos: Janet Franklin
In response to the gospel "Peace I bequeath to you, my own peace I give you" the children of St. Teresa's produced an amazing banner on 6th Sunday of Easter to show what this message meant to them. It illustrates how everyone is part of God's family; we are all sisters and brothers; God gives us love and peace and we in turn share it with one another.
In the centre was a large red house with green door, yellow windows and roof - God's House but also symbolising a home too. The words from the gospel, brightly painted, surrounded it. There were strings of cutout paper people holding hands, hearts and flying doves. Finally there were the handprints of all the children. They worked hard on the creation and the congregation really appreciated it.
text and photo Ann Lardeur.
APRIL 2010
THANK YOU
Katy
Nicoll wishes to thank all her sponsors for this event. She
completed the marathon in 5 hours 19 minutes. She has raised
over £600 to date for Water Aid.
WaterAid is an international NGO dedicated exclusively to the provision of safe domestic water, sanitation and hygiene education to the worlds poorest people.
Click here for more information.
2009
In May 2009 the Parish of the Nativity of the Lord was officially inaugurated by Bishop Kieran Conry, bringing together in a single united community nearly 1500 worshippers from the former Parishes of St Joseph’s in Redhill, The Holy Family in Reigate, and St Teresa’s in Merstham.
Heralded by Bishop Kieran as a ‘historic moment for the new Parish and the diocese at a time of grace and growth’, the inauguration of the Parish of the Nativity of the Lord marked a significant development in the life of the Catholic community in Surrey.