James Richardson will be baptised today at 11.30am. Please pray for James and his family. Everyone is welcome to the celebration of Baptism.
Keep sowing the seed
In today’s Gospel, Jesus likens the “word of the kingdom” to seed sown on the ground. Some of the seeds never take root and are eaten by birds. Some fall on rocky ground, spring up too quickly and then wither away, while others are choked by thorns. But some seeds take root in good soil and produce precious crops. This would be a familiar picture to many of Jesus’ disciples, who lived by farming, and knew how much work was involved in getting their food from the soil.
The word of God’s kingdom is good news, but there are many reasons why it can fail to take root in our hearts. We can be distracted by the things of the world, or discouraged by the opposition that we face. As disciples, we are all called to sow the seed – to spread the good news of God’s kingdom, by witnessing to our faith with our lives. Sometimes our witness will be fruitful, sometimes the seed will fall on stony ground. The parable of the sower tells us not to be discouraged, but to persevere in sowing generously, as Christ himself did.
Events at Minsteracres
3-day Walking Retreat: Three days with walks of 8-10 miles through the beautiful countryside around Minsteracres, with time for prayer, reflection and sharing of the beauty of creation. You will need suitable walking boots and warm, weatherproof clothing. A packed lunch will be provided each day. The walk will be led by the Minsteracres team. Tuesday 25-Thursday 27 July. Cost £120.
Bicycles
Partnerships – information from the Diocese
You can find up to date information on the development of Partnerships in our Diocese in the ‘Partnerships Area’ of the diocesan website, www.rcdhn.org.uk
Check it out!
APOSTLESHIP OF THE SEA
Sister Scholastica, the AoS chaplain at the Port of Sunderland, takes woolly hats on board ships entering the port as a welcome gift for the seamen, many of whom come from south-east Asia and are totally unprepared for the cold North Sea. As a practical way of showing support for the people who bring us goods from abroad it is a very easy thing for anyone who can knit or crochet to do. If you have the skills, please take a photocopied pattern from the pile at the back of church. Completed hats can be handed in at church, and will be sent on to Sr Scholastica.
Fair Trade
Volunteers are needed to staff the fortnightly Fair Trade stall after morning Mass. It’s not too big a job: you need to arrive a bit early for Mass, set up the stall, collect a cash float, sell the Fair Trade products and put the stock away afterwards. If you’re interested in joining the rota, please speak to Fr Andrew or to Pauline Butler.