Fr Andrew writes…
This parish community is made up of all kinds of people, of different cultures and races and backgrounds and experiences. This variety makes for a wonderfully rich and interesting community. I think it is really important in a community like this that everyone feels included and part of the whole and that no one feels forgotten, overlooked or neglected.
There is a risk sometimes that those who are sick or infirm, especially those who are unable to come physically to church and to other events in the parish may not feel included in the life of the parish. I hope that our livestream is useful in allowing those who are at home to join in our liturgies and feel united with us in prayer. I know that many of you keep in regular touch with those who are at home, whether that involves the odd phone call, a visit, taking Holy Communion to them or dropping off a newsletter. I want to take this opportunity to thank those people on behalf of the whole community.
I feel that it is also important for me as your priest to be in regular touch with those who are unable to come to the Church and so I would like to put out a request. If you know of anyone who would like a visit from me please let me know, give me a call, drop into Clergy House or send me an email and I will go and see them.
God bless you all!
SACRAMENTS
BAPTISMS—Parents must attend a Baptism Preparation Course organized by the parish. Collect an application form from the porch and return it to Clergy House. Next course on Saturday 4th November at 10am in the Guild Room. Children’s attendance is not required.
FIRST HOLY COMMUNION—The next meeting for parents and children will be on Saturday 11th November at 4.30pm in the Guild Room.
CONFIRMATION—Would parents with children in year 9 who wish to be confirmed please pick up a form at the back of church and return it to Clergy House as soon as possible.
RCIA—Next meeting will be on Monday 23rd October at 7pm in the Guild Room.
FR ANDREW’S INDUCTION
At 7pm on Friday 17th November Bishop Nicholas will celebrate a special mass here in the parish during which he will formally install Fr Andrew as our parish priest. Everyone is invited and this will be a lovely opportunity to celebrate the life of this special parish and to formally welcome Fr Andrew. There will be a social after the mass. Further details to follow. Fr Andrew says; “come on everyone, any excuse for a party!”
NOVEMBER THE MONTH OF THE HOLY SOULS
It will soon be November, which is the month when we pray especially for all our deceased loved ones. The envelopes for the November Dead List are available now at the back of church and you are encouraged to place in them your donation for mass to be offered and the names of your deceased loved ones whom you wish to be included in our November dead list and masses.
HALF TERM CHILDREN’S PARTY
There will be a Half Term Children’s Party in the Guild Room on Saturday 28th October from 3pm to 5pm. Please spread the word and see Caroline if you would like to help.
PRAYER FOR PEACE
Friday 3rd of November is our usual First Friday Adoration starting at 6pm ending with benediction at 6.45pm. This month we will be praying especially for peace in the Middle East.
FR KEITH’S INDUCTION – COMMERCIAL ROAD
Fr Keith induction will take place at St Mary & St Michael on Saturday 11th November at 6pm. It would be nice for a group from our Parishes to attend.
TODAY IS WORLD MISSION SUNDAY
The Holy Father invites all Catholics to contribute to a special collection for Missio, his charity for world mission. Please support Missio in helping missionaries to work alongside communities throughout the world that are poor or in need, regardless of their background or belief. Join in on this special day and take active part in the Church’s mission to share God’s love with all people. Please pick up an envelope at the back of Church or visit Missio’s website (missio.org.uk) to explore the different donation options available.
OLSJ PRIMARY SCHOOL – ADMISSIONS CONSULTATION
The Governing Body of Our Lady and St Joseph Catholic Primary School is currently reviewing proposed admission arrangements for admissions to the School in September 2025. As determined by the School Admissions Code, we are required to consult on these arrangements, and are inviting comments on the proposed changes. Please see the school website for more information: www.olsj.towerhamlets.sch.uk/parents/admissions
| Envelopes | Loose | Total |
| £169-00 | £431-19 | £600-19 |
Standing Orders
AUGUST: £533-34 SEPTEMBER: £563-34
Many thanks for your continued generosity.
NEWSLETTER ITEMS—Need to be received by noon on Thursday.
WEDDINGS—The Church requires that at least six month’s notice of any intended wedding be given so that full preparation can be made.
NEIGHBOURS IN POPLAR
| SUNDAY AFTERNOON TEA in St. Matthias to celebrate our 30th Anniversary as a Community Centre (3pm to 4.30pm). BOX FOR MEDICATIONS at the back of the Church. Collecting for Calais. WARM CLOTHES NEEDED Ladies warm clothes wanted and baby warm clothes needed for a 10 month old baby. TOWER HAMLETS CAREERS DAY Wednesday 25th in the Town Hall between 10am and 4pm. Anyone looking for employment, please attend. See poster at back of Church. CARDS AVAILABLE for visiting Kew Palace, Hampton Court, Kensington Palace and Tower of London for £1 or free! DRIVERS WANTED for Wednesday and Sunday dinner deliveries. St Matthias Community Centre, 113 Poplar High Street. |
PRAYERS PLEASE FOR
Those of our parish who are sick at home or in hospital; Refugees; Peace in the world, especially in Israel and Palestine; Those who have died recently, including Harry Collins, Maureen West, James Doran, Allan Giles, Thomas Trinh Nguyen, Amanda Charles and All whose anniversaries occur at this time.
FUNERALS
Amanda Charles, Thursday 26th October 10am
ART CLASS FOR OVER 60’s
This popular group welcomes new members (aged 60+) on Tuesdays from 2.00pm to 4.00pm in the Guild Room. Beginners welcome. (Entrance in Canton Street).
THE UNIVERSE CATHOLIC WEEKLY
We remain true to our mission of being “a light to guide the world, and a mirror to reflect it”, keeping Catholics informed about their faith and bringing them ever closer to God. In order to help us maintain a strong weekly Catholic voice, please consider taking out a subscription. Order your Digital 4 weeks free introductory offer by contacting Michelle (michelle.jones@universecatholicweekly.co.uk).
CATHOLIC BISHOPS CONFERENCE
The Bishops Conference of England and Wales website has numerous articles on many other subjects. Go to www.cbcew..org.uk for the latest Catholic News.