The theme this year is “Dignity for all workers”, recognising the problems faced by people due to racism and ethnic discrimination in the workplace. The Church teaches that “all people have a right to work… to lead a worthy life on the material, social, cultural and spiritual level”. We are therefore called to ensure people are not exploited while they work, and to open our hearts to those who face this hatred. “As you did this to the one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did it to me…” A retiring collection will be taken at Sunday’s Mass to support the work of the Catholic Association for Racial Justice.

Prof Myriam Wijlens (University of Erfurt and Durham University): Communio Fidelium, Communio Ecclesiarum, Communio Episcoporum: Representation in Synodal Structures. At Ushaw College. Tuesday 26th February: 6pm; Lecture in the Exhibition Hall, 7.15pm; Drinks reception in the Refectory (optional.)

Everyone is welcome. This is a ticketed event and tickets must be booked online by 10am Tuesday 19th February. Lecture only tickets: £5 per person (concessions £2.50; Durham University staff and students free of charge with assistance from Durham University Catholic Chaplaincy). Drinks reception: £5 per person (no concessions). For more information (including details of transport from Durham city centre) contact ccs.admin@durham.ac.uk or 0191 334 1656.

Catholic Medical Association North-East branch will meet at St Cuthbert’s on Thursday 21st March at 7.15pm. There will be a talk and discussion on ‘Challenges facing Catholics in Healthcare in 2019,’ with light refreshments and an opportunity to meet and socialise. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.

A photography exhibition by Durham Photographic Society, depicting celebrated musicians from the North East or who perform regularly in the area, including Kathryn Tickell, Zoe Gilby, Folkworks, Martin Longstaff and Paul Edis. On display at Ushaw College 18th January-23rd March.

Today’s Gospel recounts the day when Simon’s life changed forever. He spent the morning listening to Jesus preaching the Word of God to the crowds. Then, at Jesus’ word, Simon and his friends put out their fishing nets, though these experienced fishermen wouldn’t expect to catch anything in the middle of the day. When they did net a tremendous catch of fish, Simon, understandably, felt overwhelmed. His reaction – ‘Leave me Lord, I am a sinful man,’ would probably be ours, too. But Jesus chose this sinful and imperfect man for the leading role among his disciples. Simon would preach the Gospel and draw men and women to Christ, and he would become Peter, the rock on which the Church is built. He responded immediately and generously to the Lord’s call, leaving everything to follow him.

Like Peter, Christ calls us to be his disciples and witnesses. Like Peter (and like the prophet Isaiah), we may feel unworthy, and yet the Lord calls us. He will provide the catch. All he asks of us is a generous response.

Fr Timothy Radcliffe OP will, unfortunately, not be preaching at St Cuthbert’s on Sunday, as an injury has prevented him from travelling.

Our diocesan event for young people in school Years 5-8. Live music; Praise & Worship; invited speakers; refreshments and social time. Wednesday 13th February, 6.00-7.30pm at St. Joseph’s Catholic Academy, Mill Lane, Hebburn NE31 2ET.

Martin Donbavand is raising money to support a family who’s child has downs syndrome and are currently facing some extra challenges. There will be a Cheese & Wine quiz night on Saturday 9th March, 7:00pm at St Oswald’s Institute to raise funds. Tickets are £5 and will be available after 10am Mass today. For more information please contact Martin or Liz Donbavand on 07903888399.

If anybody has any raffle prizes they would like to donate they would be greatly appreciated, these can be dropped off at the parish office. We are looking for donations of wines, spirits and chocolates, thank you.

Thank you to all who have brought in toilets rolls and biscuits for this months collection. These can still be left in the narthex today.
There are now over 50 new clients a month so the need continues to be very great and our generosity still asked for. There is also an appeal for more financial support. Please consider starting a standing order or increasing your current one or sending a cheque. Please see the Refugee Project Spring 2019 newsletter on the notice board for details.