St Mary of the Angels, Aldridge - Parish News

5th Sunday of Lent - Something Never Seen Before

Sun, 29 Mar 2020 10:36:01 GMT

What strange times we are living in. In our life of faith we face many different challenges and living through this period of isolation is certainly one of them.
On a personal note, I did not expect that my first Lent, Passiontide, and Easter as a priest would be lived-out in this way.

In the first time in this Parish's history, the Church has been closed, along with all other public places of worship in order to stop the spread of COVID-19. We have been celebrating daily Masses for you, the people of the parish, and from today (29th of March 2020) you are able to join with us in the celebration of the Eucharist from your homes through live streaming or watching the pre-recorded videos.
When this Church was built I do not think something like this would ever have been imagined. With a tripod set-up and radio mics on we celebrated Mass, which was broadcast live to many homes. For me, it was a strange and nerve-racking experience because it is a situation none of us have encountered before. Seeing an empty Church is always a sad sight, but from today onwards there is the sight of the camera and tripod and we know many of you are joining with us in an act of Spiritual Communion. The feedback already has been very encouraging and we know that many people from within the Parish and beyond have been able to participate.
Please do spread the word about the live streaming and recording of Mass. You do not need to have a Facebook account to watch the live feed or the videos.

Author

This post was written by Fr. Ryan Service
Priest of the Archdiocese of Birmingham.

Support for Parishioners during COVID-19

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 13:41:43 GMT

Following the recent announcement by the Government and the Bishops' of England and Wales, we realise that for many this time could be a difficult and trying time for those who may have to self-isolate. Here at St. Mary of the Angels we are putting into place a system where we can offer assistance to those who are most in need. If, for any reason, you as one of our parishioners, are in any kind of need, whether it be the need for some shopping to be delivered, or simply the sound of a friendly voice at the end of the phone, please do not hesitate to contact Fr. Craig on the Presbytery phone number (01922 452316) and he will pass your details onto a wider support team who will do all that they can to help. If you know of anybody who might be in need of this support please pass on the above phone number.

Six Candidates - Third Sunday of Lent

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 16:52:24 GMT

This morning at the 9.30 a.m. Mass the six candidates who are to be received into the Church at the Easter Vigil underwent the first of the Scrutinies. Over the next few weeks they will continue on their journey of faith as they prepare to become members of the Catholic Church, and more importantly members of Our Parish here in Aldridge. Please do keep them in your prayers at this important time in their journey.