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 Click the above for the Divine Mercy website and then click chaplet menu on the top. It is worth remembering that St Marys in Wigan always celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday
 Sister Josephena has written many articles on her visits of Our Lord and Our Lady, one is detailed below, this article tells of her terrifying visits into hell. These are excerpts taken from http://thesaintsstories.blogspot.com/2008/08/sister-josefa-menendez-journeys-to-hell.html website, click the above link to view their site
As we are now in the season of Lent, the life and words of Sister Josefa Menendez cannot but help spur us on to be ourageous in our Lenten penances in reparation for our own sins and the sins of others. Sister Josefa was a victim soul who willingly endured untold sufferings for
the salvation of souls. Our Lord sent Sister Josefa into hell so she, too, could testify to the torments of the damned to prepare men for Heaven through the fear of God if “the love of God is not strong enough to gain us salvation.” the following is from Sister Josefa Menendez’ own writing after her return from descents into hell. Sister Josefa wrote with great reticence on this subject. She did it only to conform to Our Blessed Lord’s wishes, Our Lady having told her on October 25, 1922: “Everything that Jesus allows you to see and to suffer of the torments of hell, is … that you may make it known. So forget yourself entirely, and think only of the glory of the … salvation of souls“. She repeatedly dwelt on the greatest torment of hell, namely: “One of these damned souls cried out: ‘This is my torture … that I want to love and cannot; there is nothing left for me but hatred and despair. If one of us could so much as make a single act of love … This would no longer be hell … but we cannot, we live on hatred and malevolence’ …” (March 23, 1922) .
Another of these unfortunates said: “The greatest of our torments here is
that we are not able to love Him. While we hunger for love, we are consumed with desire of it, but it is too late.” “Some yell because of the burning of their hands. Perhaps they were thieves, for they say: ‘Where is our loot now? … Cursed hands … Why did I want to possess what did not belong to me … and what in any case I could keep only for a few days?’ “ “Others curse their tongues, their eyes … whatever was the occasion of their sin … ‘Now, O body, you are paying the price of the delights you granted yourself … And you did it of your own free will …’ “ (April 2, 1922) “I saw many worldly people fall into hell, and now words can render their horrible and terrifying cries: ‘Damned for ever … I deceived myself; I am lost … I am here forever’. “ “Today, I saw a vast number of people fall into the fiery pit … they seemed to be worldlings and a demon cried vociferously: ‘The world is ripe for me … I know that the best way to get hold of souls is to rouse their desire for enjoyment … Put me first … Me before the rest … no humility for me! But let me enjoy myself … This sort of thing assures victory to me … and they tumble headlong into hell’.” (October 4, 1922) “Tonight,” wrote Josefa, “I did not go down into hell, but was transported to a place where all was obscure, but in the center was a red smoldering fire. They had laid me flat and so bound me that I could not make the slightest movement. Around me were seven or eight people; their black bodies were unclothed, and I could see them only by the reflections of the fire. They were seated and were talking together. “One devil to another said: ‘We’ll have to be very careful not to be found out, for we might easily be discovered’ Another devil answered; ‘Insinuate yourselves by including awarelessness in them … but keep in the background, so that you are not found out … by degrees they will become callous, and you will be able to incline them to evil. Tempt these others to ambition, to self-interest, to acquiring wealth without working … Excite some to sensuality and love of pleasure’.” .
Sounds of confusion and blasphemy cease not for an instant. A sickening stench asphyxiates and corrupts everything; it is like the burning of putrefied flesh,
mingled with tar and sulfur…a mixture to which nothing on earth can be compared.” “In the night of 16th March towards ten o’clock”, wrote Josefa, “I became aware, as on the preceding days, of a confusing noise of cries and chains. I rose quickly and dressed, and trembling with fright, knelt down near my bed. The uproar was approaching, and not knowing what to do, I left the dormitory, and went to our Holy Mother’s cell; then I went back to the dormitory. The same terrifying sounds were all round me; then all of a sudden I saw in front of me the devil himself. “ ‘Tie her feet and bind her hands,’ he cried. Instantly I lost sight of where I was, and felt myself tightly bound and being dragged away. Other voices screamed: ‘No good to bind her feet; it is her heart that you must bind’. ‘It does not belong to me’ came the answer from the devil. Then I was dragged along a very dark and lengthy passage, and on all sides resounded terrible cries. “On opposite sides of the walls of the narrow corridor were niches out of which poured smoke, though with very little flame, and which emitted an intolerable stench. From these niches came blaspheming voices, uttering impure words. Some cursed their bodies, others their parents … It was a medley of confused screams of rage and despair. “I was dragged through that kind of corridor which seemed endless. Then I received a punch in the stomach, which doubled me in two, and forced me into one of the niches. I felt as if I were being pressed between two burning planks and pierced through and through with scorching needlepoints. Opposite and beside me souls were blaspheming and cursing me. What caused me most suffering … and to which no torture can be compared, was the anguish of my soul to find myself separated from God … “It seemed to me that I spent long years in that hell, yet it only lasted six or seven hours … “I see clearly that all the sufferings on earth are nothing in comparison with the horror of no longer being able to love, for in that place all breathes hatred and thirst to damn other souls.” Let us thank Our Lord Jesus Christ for giving us these sober warnings, and avail ourselves of sin that could send us to Hell. Our Lord established this great sacrament as a font of mercy for us. Let us also receive often Our Lord in the Holy Eucharist to grow in the life of grace. Strange but true
A fellow was killed by a Coke machine which toppled over on top of him as he was attempting to tip a free soda out of it.
A fierce gust of wind blew 45-year-old Vittorio Luise's car into a river near Naples, Italy in 1983. He managed to break out a window, climb out, and swim to shore -- where a tree blew over and killed him. Mike Stewart, 31, of Dallas was filming a public service movie in 1983 on "The Dangers of Low-Level Bridges" when the truck he was standing on passed under a low-level bridge -- killing him. .
Walter Hallas, a 26-year-old store clerk in Leeds, England was so afraid of dentists that in 1979 he asked a fellow worker to try to cure his toothache by punching him in the jaw. The punch caused Hallas to fall down, hitting his head, and he died of a fractured skull.
George Schwartz, owner of a factory in Providence, RI narrowly escaped death when a 1983 blast flattened his factory except for one wall. After treatment for minor injuries, he returned to the scene to search for his files. The remaining wall then collapsed on him, killing him instantly. Depressed since he couldn't find a job, 42-year-old Romolo Ribolla sat in his kitchen near Pisa, Italy with a gun in his hand, threatening to kill himself in 1981. His wife pleaded for him not to do it, and after about an hour, he burst into tears and threw the gun to the floor. It went off and killed his wife. .
Two German motorists had an all-too-literal head-on
collision in heavy fog near the small town of Guetersloh. Each was guiding his car at a snail's pace from opposite directions but both near the middle of the road. At the moment of impact, their heads were both out of the windows where they smacked together. Both men were hospitalized with severe head injuries. Their cars weren't scratched. .
A few years ago in California there was a raging brush fire. Once the fire was extinguished, the firefighters began the process of clean up. In the middle of where the fire had been burning, they found a dead man wearing a scuba tank and wet suit. At first the firefighters were
baffled as to why a man would be out in the middle of the countryside wearing full scuba gear. Upon further examination, it was determined that the man died from the impact with the ground and not the fire. As best anyone can determine, this man was scuba diving off the coast of California and was accidentally picked up by one of the firefighting aircraft when it was refilling its water tanks offshore. .
In 1976, a 22-year-old Irishman, Bob Finnegan, was crossing the
busy Falls Road in Belfast, when he was struck by a taxi and flung over its roof. The taxi drove away and as Finnegan lay stunned in the road, another car ran into him, rolling him into the gutter. It too drove on. As a knot of gawkers gathered to examine the magnetic Irishman, a delivery van plowed through the crowd, leaving in its wake 3 injured bystanders, and an even more battered Bob Finnegan. When a fourth vehicle came along, the crowd wisely scattered and only one person was hit -- Bob Finnegan. In the space of two minutes, Finnegan suffered fractured skull, broken pelvis, broken leg, and other assorted injuries. Hospital officials said he would recover. In 1983, a Mrs. Carson of Lake Kushaqua, N.Y. was laid out in her coffin, presumed dead of heart disease. As mourners watched, she suddenly sat up. Her daughter dropped dead of fright. A man hit by a car in New York City in 1977 got up injured, but laid back down in front of the car when a bystander told him to pretend he was hurt so he could collect insurance money. The car then rolled forward and crushed him to death. Surprised while burgling a house in Antwerp, Belgium, a thief fled out the back door, clambered over a nine-foot wall, dropped down, and found himself in the city prison. The innocents of a child
A woman was reading the paper and said in amazement to her husband and daughter, Archaologist have found an egg over 1 million years old, can you beleive it. To which her husband replied, can you eat it, the woman turned her eyes to heaven in amazement and looked at her five year old daughter. He daughter looked knowingly to her and turned to Dad and said, Daddy it is over 1 million years old, it will have gone off, makes sense to me
Guardian Angels do exists
Sister Marie Celine recalls some years ago when she was working in a small mother and baby home in the Midlands, and she has no doubt that we have guardian angles watching over us. On a pitch black night the wind shrieking and threatening to lift the roof from the house, torrential rain battering against the windows. Sister Marie Celine was alone on night duty in charge of sixteen babies whose ages ranged from 3 days to 6 weeks. The mothers were asleep in another
building in the grounds. As the light flickered fitfully the silhouette of a he oak tree was thrown by a street lamp onto the blind, it looked like a giant with arms outstretched, ready to grasp anything within its reach. She shivered, glad to be indoors. .
I was alone with the sleeping babies. At 11.00 pm, I went to the emergency cupboard for powerful torches to set them at strategic points
in case of a power cut, very common at that time. The cots were placed evenly around the room making three sides of a rectangle the forth side was occupied by baby baths and so on. As I tiptoed from cot to cot, I noticed a draught from the French window, weighing up the odds, between the warm babies and hygiene the babies won. How grateful I have been since that decision. I moved six babies into the centre of the room, and piled up the baths, tables, chars and carry cots to the vacant space. I placed a screen against the window, making sure there was enough room for access to each baby. .
At 12.15 I was just preparing to make another tour, before having my dinner, when there was a terrific crash, I ran into the nursery to find that a section of the ceiling just above the French windows had fallen down. Grabbing two babies from the cots nearest the window I rang with them to the parlour and laid them on the carpet. I worked methodically and as quickly as possible taking babies from alternate ends of the room untill I had ten babies all safe. All this time I felt cool and logical, although my hands shook. Then another section fell, taking the light within. I turned on the torch but could hardly see or breath for dust. Eventually all babies were safe, but awake and protesting in competition with the storm. They were certainly all breathing. After cleaning the cots, the smallest babies were laid top to tail in five and the bigger babies went into the rest singly. I wheeled them into the warmth in the kitchen, soon peace was restored
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When I realised the enormity of what had happened. I was suddenly exhausted and shaking. Too weak to climb the stairs to tell the sisters, I sat numbly just thanking God.
When the storm died down I went to survey the damage, if I had not moved the babies from the window they would have certainly been lost. Great slabs of ceiling board had smashed tables and chairs and had cut the carry cots in half . I sat and wept not in sadness but in gratitude to God for sending his guardian angels to protect his innocent ones. Guardian Angel from Heaven above Come to me guard me surround me with love Ease all my troubles and calm all my fears And lead me to Heaven when spent are my years Precious Memories
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The good news is that this site cost nothing to build and only costs the parish very little per year, however if it is not used it will not be renewed, please complete the forms at the back of the church or email us to be included on the website. Please remember this is your website if you do not use it you will lose it. Good luck
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 St Oswalds Infant School, Liverpool RoadAbove is a picture of St Oswalds infant school, which originally was a boys school, but later turned to be a mixed infant school. It was said to have mysteriously caught fire as a preservation order was sought to protect the building. Do you have any memories of going to this school, share them with us please
 Remember this is better than the magazine it is free and you will not be ignored we are your family, talk to us
If you have not got email write to us
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The Shroud of Turin
Holy Face Devotion
Click to view devotion to the Holy Face
|  We will be adding Bible stories to the above, watch this space |
Sundays Bible Reflections with Dr Scott Hann, read his reflections
Click the picture above to view great website and listen to music on utube.
This was passed to us in the street and we felt we would like to share it with you
Hope it touches your heart
T’was battered and scarred, the Auctioneer
Thought it scarily worth his while
To waste much time on the old violin
But he held it up with a smile
“What am I bidden, good folk?” he cried
“Who’ll start the biding for me? “ A Dollar – a dollar - then two – “Two dollars, and who’ll make it three? “Going for three” – but no – From the room far back, a grey haired man came forward and picked up the bow, Then wiping the dust from the old violin
And tightening the loosened strings
He played a melody – pure and sweet
As a carolling angel sings
The music ceased, and the auctioneer
With a voice that was quite and low Said
“NOW”, what am I bid for the old violin?”
And he held it up with the bow
“A thousand dollars and who’ll make it two”
“Two thousand dollars – and who’ll make it three?”
“Three thousand once, three thousand twice –
“And going – and gone” cried he the people cheered, but some of them cried, we do not uderstand.
“What change its worth”? Quick came the reply
“The touch of the Masters hand”.
And many a man with the life out of tune
And battered and scarred with sin
Is auctioned cheap, to a thoughtless crowd
Much like the old violin
A “mess of pottage” – a glass of wine
A game – and he travels on:
He is going once – and going twice –
He’s going – and almost gone
But the Master comes, and the foolish crowd
Never can quite understand
The worth of a Soul and the change that’s wrought
By the touch of the Masters hand
Thought it scarily worth his while
To waste much time on the old violin
But he held it up with a smile
“What am I bidden, good folk?” he cried
“Who’ll start the biding for me? “ A Dollar – a dollar - then two – “Two dollars, and who’ll make it three? “Going for three” – but no – From the room far back, a grey haired man came forward and picked up the bow, Then wiping the dust from the old violin
And tightening the loosened strings
He played a melody – pure and sweet
As a carolling angel sings
The music ceased, and the auctioneer
With a voice that was quite and low Said
“NOW”, what am I bid for the old violin?”
And he held it up with the bow
“A thousand dollars and who’ll make it two”
“Two thousand dollars – and who’ll make it three?”
“Three thousand once, three thousand twice –
“And going – and gone” cried he the people cheered, but some of them cried, we do not uderstand.
“What change its worth”? Quick came the reply
“The touch of the Masters hand”.
And many a man with the life out of tune
And battered and scarred with sin
Is auctioned cheap, to a thoughtless crowd
Much like the old violin
A “mess of pottage” – a glass of wine
A game – and he travels on:
He is going once – and going twice –
He’s going – and almost gone
But the Master comes, and the foolish crowd
Never can quite understand
The worth of a Soul and the change that’s wrought
By the touch of the Masters hand
Thank you to Deacon Peter at English Martyres for these Homilies hope you enjoy
Please click on the stars to view
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Love Animals
Click on the website below
Catholic Concern for Animals -
We all need help
The Ark
Have you got any stories of the church or parish, things that happened many years ago, or any old pictures you could share with us.
Please email us a copy
Did you know where this window came from
Have you ever admired this window as you drive pass St Thomas church. Its origin is even more interesting. Haydock Lodge was known as a Lunatic Asylum around the year 1845 at the time and was reported to be a very humane hospital for both the rich and the poor. It was situated on the grounds behind now The Holiday Inn, previously The Post House. Rev Wilson was a Chaplin to the patients and comments below:
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“The noble modern mansion stands within a spacious park, secluded from the public sight, and is connected with suitable attached and detached buildings, and large walled gardens, surrounded by about 370 acres of land, in a ring fence, affording facilities for recreation, healthful and interesting employment, superior to those attainable in any similar Asylum in England, - or indeed in Europe”.
Rev Wilsons words “The Establishment is conducted upon the system of non-restraint and kind moral-treatment so successfully employed by Dr. Connolly, and now followed at the Hanwell Middlesex County Asylum, forming a most gratifying contrast with the cruel and disgraceful treatment Pauper Lunatics were formerly subject to”.
Rev Wilsons words “The Establishment is conducted upon the system of non-restraint and kind moral-treatment so successfully employed by Dr. Connolly, and now followed at the Hanwell Middlesex County Asylum, forming a most gratifying contrast with the cruel and disgraceful treatment Pauper Lunatics were formerly subject to”.
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One Bristol workhouse was reported so cruel to the mentally ill as described below: In Bristol it was reported:
the workhouse was filthy in the extreme, the appearance of the inmates dirty and wretched ...There was no classification whatever, men, women and children were promiscuously huddled together ... In one corner of the building I discovered the most filthy, dismal looking room, which altogether presented such a somber, wretched appearance, that curiosity prompted me to explore it. I entered it, and the scene which I witnessed, it is impossible to forget . . . it reminded me of a coal cellar, or of any place rather than the residence of a human being. The sole tenant of this abode was a poor distressed lunatic. His appearance was pitiable in the extreme; his clothing was extremely ragged; his flesh literally as dirty as the floor; his head and face were much bruised, apparently from repeated falls. . . . He sat listless and alone, without any human being to attend upon or take care of him, staring vacantly around, insensible even to the calls of nature ... He was endeavoring to avail himself of the only comfort allowed him from the few embers which were yet burning in the grate, for he had thrust his arms through an iron grating, which was placed before the fire ... his hands just reached the embers ... .To the very great shame of the parish officers, I found he had been in this disgusting state for years.
the workhouse was filthy in the extreme, the appearance of the inmates dirty and wretched ...There was no classification whatever, men, women and children were promiscuously huddled together ... In one corner of the building I discovered the most filthy, dismal looking room, which altogether presented such a somber, wretched appearance, that curiosity prompted me to explore it. I entered it, and the scene which I witnessed, it is impossible to forget . . . it reminded me of a coal cellar, or of any place rather than the residence of a human being. The sole tenant of this abode was a poor distressed lunatic. His appearance was pitiable in the extreme; his clothing was extremely ragged; his flesh literally as dirty as the floor; his head and face were much bruised, apparently from repeated falls. . . . He sat listless and alone, without any human being to attend upon or take care of him, staring vacantly around, insensible even to the calls of nature ... He was endeavoring to avail himself of the only comfort allowed him from the few embers which were yet burning in the grate, for he had thrust his arms through an iron grating, which was placed before the fire ... his hands just reached the embers ... .To the very great shame of the parish officers, I found he had been in this disgusting state for years.
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At Tiverton, a woman had been confined in a workhouse for twenty-eight years in a small room devoid of furniture and fire.
She slept on straw and had no clothing winter or summer. In another village a male lunatic had lived naked and in total darkness in a miserable outhouse for eight years. He had been fastened to the wall by his leg with a chain not a foot long.”
Poor Law Medical Officers told many stories of cruelty and 'there were few or no poor houses where (there were ) not some objects for whose welfare a lunatic asylum (was) wanted. 'The Assistant Commissioner had reported, 'At the moment we do not know what to do with the pauper lunatic .... the expense of sending them to the asylum is so great that they have been kept in the workhouse until they become troublesome and until the disease has become inveterate and recovery hopeless.'
She slept on straw and had no clothing winter or summer. In another village a male lunatic had lived naked and in total darkness in a miserable outhouse for eight years. He had been fastened to the wall by his leg with a chain not a foot long.”
Poor Law Medical Officers told many stories of cruelty and 'there were few or no poor houses where (there were ) not some objects for whose welfare a lunatic asylum (was) wanted. 'The Assistant Commissioner had reported, 'At the moment we do not know what to do with the pauper lunatic .... the expense of sending them to the asylum is so great that they have been kept in the workhouse until they become troublesome and until the disease has become inveterate and recovery hopeless.'
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Rev Wilson continued with his description of Haydock Lodge:
INSANE PRIVATE PATIENTS
A large portion of the Establishment and of the Grounds is set apart and furnished for the reception of a higher class of PRIVATE PATIENTS. Every variety of superior accommodation, care, and service will be provided, according to the desire of the friends of the Patients. Separate houses, with their distinct garden, forming part, however, of the same Establishment, and enclosed within the same boundary, will be furnished, and separate servants and carriages kept for Patients who may require them.
In 1897 Charles T. Street Esq who was a patient of the institute donated a large amount of money which paid for part of the window, and Edward H Beaman from Southport paid for the remaining, they have now gone and the asylum has also gone, but the window remains. click on the below link to view the lodge before it was a mental hospital and view the many beautiful rooms. http://newton-le-willows.com/history/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=1295&&sid=7423deefd72cf7dc4d4dc41b5820efc7 Records exist to 1969. It closed about 1970
To learn more about Haydock lodge click on the following link http://studymore.org.uk/mott.htm
INSANE PRIVATE PATIENTS
A large portion of the Establishment and of the Grounds is set apart and furnished for the reception of a higher class of PRIVATE PATIENTS. Every variety of superior accommodation, care, and service will be provided, according to the desire of the friends of the Patients. Separate houses, with their distinct garden, forming part, however, of the same Establishment, and enclosed within the same boundary, will be furnished, and separate servants and carriages kept for Patients who may require them.
In 1897 Charles T. Street Esq who was a patient of the institute donated a large amount of money which paid for part of the window, and Edward H Beaman from Southport paid for the remaining, they have now gone and the asylum has also gone, but the window remains. click on the below link to view the lodge before it was a mental hospital and view the many beautiful rooms. http://newton-le-willows.com/history/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=1295&&sid=7423deefd72cf7dc4d4dc41b5820efc7 Records exist to 1969. It closed about 1970
To learn more about Haydock lodge click on the following link http://studymore.org.uk/mott.htm
The Ten Commandments of God
1. I am the Lord thy God; thou shalt not have strange gods before Me.
2. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord they God in vain.
3. Remember thou keep holy the Lords day.
4. Honour thy father and thy mother.
5. Thou shalt not kill
6. Thou shalt not commit adultery
7. Thou shalt not steal
8. Thou shalt not bear false witness against they neighbours
9. They shalt not covert thy neighbours wife
10. Thou shalt not covert thy neighbours goods.
What does the above mean. Fr Corobi did an excellent talk on the Commandments and what they meant, if you want to borrow a copy please email us and we will send you one.
Inspiration
As humans, we often feel lonely. Sometimes we feel unwanted or unloved. These are hard feelings to cope with. The popularity of support groups and counselling services show that people have a great need to talk about what is really troubling them in their life. Many people don't feel comfortable talking about their personal problems with friends or family.
As Catholics, we are blessed because we can go to a Church and talk with Jesus about our life. We believe that He is truly present in every tabernacle in every Catholic Church. He has revealed through His saints that He longs for us to come to Him so that He can grant us His grace and help us with our difficulties in life.
As Catholics, we must continually renew our faith in the Eucharist as it is the centre of our Church. Our article this week highlights the faith of St. Faustina and St. Maximilian Kolbe on the holiness and power of the Eucharist. Their insight on the importance of the Eucharist for our souls shows us that we must always seek to deepen our faith in this blessed and sacred sacrament.
We must also remember that we do not have to go to a church to unite with Jesus spiritually. If we cannot go to a church, we can unite with Jesus in our souls and talk with Him there. Through His revelations to St. Faustina, we see that there are no boundaries between us and Jesus.
We can communicate with Him constantly in our heart. Over time, our relationship with Him changes, as we grow in confidence in Him in His mercy, goodness and love. We learn to trust Him and this brings a strength to our souls that nothing can replace.
As Catholics, we are blessed because we can go to a Church and talk with Jesus about our life. We believe that He is truly present in every tabernacle in every Catholic Church. He has revealed through His saints that He longs for us to come to Him so that He can grant us His grace and help us with our difficulties in life.
As Catholics, we must continually renew our faith in the Eucharist as it is the centre of our Church. Our article this week highlights the faith of St. Faustina and St. Maximilian Kolbe on the holiness and power of the Eucharist. Their insight on the importance of the Eucharist for our souls shows us that we must always seek to deepen our faith in this blessed and sacred sacrament.
We must also remember that we do not have to go to a church to unite with Jesus spiritually. If we cannot go to a church, we can unite with Jesus in our souls and talk with Him there. Through His revelations to St. Faustina, we see that there are no boundaries between us and Jesus.
We can communicate with Him constantly in our heart. Over time, our relationship with Him changes, as we grow in confidence in Him in His mercy, goodness and love. We learn to trust Him and this brings a strength to our souls that nothing can replace.
Harrogate Well
Excerpt from Whitehouse's History of Wigan, 1829.
"THE Springs in the neighbourhood of Wigan are numerous, and a few years ago a
medical spring was discovered near Scholes Bridge, the water of which was strongly impregnated with sulphur, and which, very much from its resemblence to the celebrated Yorkshire Spa, obtained the name of new Harrogate. The quantity of Saline matter contained in this water was not so considerable as in the Harrogate waters, but it was used with good effect in cutaneous and scorbutic disorders, and patients frequently obtained perfect cure from the use of it. For
the accommodation of visitors, a handsome building was erected, with conveniences for drinking the water, and bathing if required, but now the waters, having got mixed with those of the neighbouring coal pits, have nearly lost their medicinal virtues, and are little used."
DR. BORLESS, in 1770, prophesied a fortunate and fashionable future for the Wells (mentioning Lathom and Harrogate Spas), but evidently this did not mature, owing to the aforesaid Coal Pits.
THE Well was lost sight of until the 4th October, 1889, when it was exposed by the pulling down of two cottages which had been built over the site. When the ground floor of one of these cottages was removed, a circular brick chamber was revealed 12 feet in diameter, with walls 5 feet in height. An arch bricked roof covered in the well, and partly formed the floor of the chamber. Under the arch
and across the wall was placed a massive plum tree beam, doubtless used at some time for the attachment of winding gear. The well was 12 feet deep, and contained 5½ feet of water, a rough wooden seating encircling the chamber.
THE illustration above is a reproduction of a sketch made just prior to the demolition of the cottages.
With very kind thanks to Wiganwold for allowing us to link to their site, please use the link below to view the very interesting articles they have http://www.wiganworld.co.uk/
According to The Travellers Companion 1788, "it contains a considerable quantity of very fine sulphur, and has been found useful in most complaints for which sulphur waters have been recommended; it
has been made use of in a variety of complaints, and frequently with good effect: amongst others the following may be particularly mentioned: sore eyes,
particularly those of long standing; old sore legs and other old sores; scald heads; the scurvy, itch and many other eruptions or cutaneous complaints, scrofulous sores etc; in all these disorders patients have frequently been known to obtain a perfect cure by use of this water. There is now a very elegant building erected for the use of those who resort to this spring, with convenience for drinking the water, and for using it either as a hot or cold bath."
The Story of Mab's Cross
"Mabs Cross" is preserved in Standishgate near St Johns Church. Sir William Bradshaigh was married to Mabel Norris, heiress of Haigh and was implicated in the murder of Sir Hendry de Bury. Although pardoned, he hid until the death of his enemy. Dame Mabel beleived him to be dead and re married, Sir William desguised himself to his tenants and slew the Knight at Newton le Willows. As a penance Lady Mabel was ordered to walk once a week barefoot from her home (Haigh Hall) to the cross in Standishgate.
Thanks to St Johns Church in Wigan
Thanks to St Johns Church in Wigan
THE ROAD TO DAMASCUS
The converstion of the of St Paul on the road to Damascus is a very moving and talked about storey and fortells the Eucharist. After Jesus was killed, the name Saul brought total fear among the Christians as he was a strong Jew who hated the Christians and sought them out to kill, he would gladly do the deed himself, both men and women, and travelled far and wide. He was a strong man of God and thought Christians were blasphemers. On his journey of persecution, he saw a bright light and heard a voice saying, “Saul, Saul why are you persecuting me”, Saul was afraid and said, “who are you Lord”, notice he said ‘Lord’, he already knew who was speaking to him. Saul then realised that Christianity was not blaspheming but the fulfilment of Gods promise, Jesus was the Messiah. He was blinded temporary through the bright light and his soldiers had to
help him. Jesus told him to go and seek out sanctuary, all was fearful of Saul but did as God told them and baptised Saul into Christianity, he was then the most hated by the Romans and Jews.
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People often ask why did Jesus choose Judas when he knew he was going to betray him, was he the chosen scapegoat. I believe that God gives us free will to choose which path to walk down and also the tools to travel on our journey to heaven. I often think of the Holy innocents and use to cry out ‘why Lord did you not stop it’, but if God did intervene would we bother to do anything in future, or learn, would we care about our fellow man or just let God sort him out, would we be like robots again not thinking for ourselves but letting God do it. In the scriptures it says Jesus was heartbroken that it was a friend who betrayed him, who he sat with night after
night until the early hours talking to him trying to help him, and he choose the other path. God gave St Paul (Saul) tools to do his job and no one suffered more than St Paul after his conversion. He was shipwrecked several times, whipped so badly that his back was said to be worse than any slaves, jailed many times, beaten before being killed. God gives us the tools and free will, what we do with them is up to us. St Paul was on the wrong road, so God gave him a nudge and set him on a path to sainthood. Jesus tells us that if you belong to the world they will love you, they didn’t love St Paul or
St Edmund, and remember when they laugh or sneer at you, all I think of is God laughing, smiling or crying as this is all that really matters to me on my journey home. There is another article below from EWTN, click the link below http://www.discerninghearts.com/?tag=st-paul
http://www.ewtn.com/library/mary/roaddama.htm
night until the early hours talking to him trying to help him, and he choose the other path. God gave St Paul (Saul) tools to do his job and no one suffered more than St Paul after his conversion. He was shipwrecked several times, whipped so badly that his back was said to be worse than any slaves, jailed many times, beaten before being killed. God gives us the tools and free will, what we do with them is up to us. St Paul was on the wrong road, so God gave him a nudge and set him on a path to sainthood. Jesus tells us that if you belong to the world they will love you, they didn’t love St Paul or
St Edmund, and remember when they laugh or sneer at you, all I think of is God laughing, smiling or crying as this is all that really matters to me on my journey home. There is another article below from EWTN, click the link below http://www.discerninghearts.com/?tag=st-paul
http://www.ewtn.com/library/mary/roaddama.htm
Life in the 50's
Click the dogs to view
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Click on the icon below to see a beautiful prayer.
Saturday 21st is the feast day of St Agnus
The window in St Thereas chapel is dipicting St Agnus. She is often pictured with a lamb for two reasons, one her name in latin is similar to Agnus (lamb) and two, because the Lamb is a symbol of purity and she will always remain innocent.
St Agnus was martyred at the age of 12 or 13 as the prefect Sempronius wished her to marry his son, and on her refusal he ordered her to death. As the roman law would not permit vigins to be executed, she was dragged through the streets naked to a brothel. At her execution she was tied to a stake but the wood did not burn, then the officer in charge drew his sword and beheaded her.
St Agnus was martyred at the age of 12 or 13 as the prefect Sempronius wished her to marry his son, and on her refusal he ordered her to death. As the roman law would not permit vigins to be executed, she was dragged through the streets naked to a brothel. At her execution she was tied to a stake but the wood did not burn, then the officer in charge drew his sword and beheaded her.
Whats behind the bear
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Road Rage
A work colleague came in today after being in a collision last night. She explained she was sat
in a traffic jam but was listening to something on the radio and tried not to stress out. As the traffic moved
on, she politely allowed a chap to move in, and was astonished to see the driver behind him also manoeuvre his way around, sound familiar. She was so annoyed that she moved her car up to block his way, as the traffic edged ever so forward, she kept nudging up so as not to allow the second driver in.
in a traffic jam but was listening to something on the radio and tried not to stress out. As the traffic moved
on, she politely allowed a chap to move in, and was astonished to see the driver behind him also manoeuvre his way around, sound familiar. She was so annoyed that she moved her car up to block his way, as the traffic edged ever so forward, she kept nudging up so as not to allow the second driver in.
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She was so angry and pretended to laugh at the radio and not to notice the second driver, although she could feel his gaze on her. This went on every time there was any movement in the traffic. At this point she was getting more and more angry until the demon in her started to surface, he is not getting in. She was bumper to bumper with the other car, inevitably the expected happened, and the car slowly careered into her and the first driver in front.
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The first driver got out and was very angry, and she was quite rightly putting all the blame on the second driver, as she did not say he
could push in. She said very loudly so all in the cars could hear it was not her fault, “ I let him in, I never said you could come in also”, to which he replied, “yes I know love, but I am being towed to the garage, there is a rope
attached to me. In her wonderful acting to pretend not to see the second driver she failed to notice the brightly coloured rope with flags on advising on tow. I can just image the insurance document,
the accident happened as I collided with an invisible rope with a car attached at both ends, oh dear!! Its true,
it happened
could push in. She said very loudly so all in the cars could hear it was not her fault, “ I let him in, I never said you could come in also”, to which he replied, “yes I know love, but I am being towed to the garage, there is a rope
attached to me. In her wonderful acting to pretend not to see the second driver she failed to notice the brightly coloured rope with flags on advising on tow. I can just image the insurance document,
the accident happened as I collided with an invisible rope with a car attached at both ends, oh dear!! Its true,
it happened
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You have prepared a table for me, and how precious is the chalice which quenches my thirst.
Click for the Petition of the Holy Wounds of Our Lord
To view download the presentation to your desktop then click view slideshow to view with music.
I’m so tired I could sleep on a clothes line
That’s a strange expression isn’t it, have you ever thought of where it and others come from. Many years ago especially durng the 1930's depression and in the city centres, where homeless was an overburden and even the slums were overcrowded. Most people just wanted a bed for the night but it was very expensive, I believe a bed cost around a penny which most did not have, so they had to make do with a space on the clothes line. Unbelievable, I hear you say but kid you not, when the floor was infested with human waste and all manner of cockroaches, rats, etc use to run around, people use to pay for a small space on a rope and sleep standing up. They were so tired from the days long work, that and not daring to hope for more, it was the best and only option.
We will try to get some drawing to illustrate this shortly.
Nowadays we not only have a bed and pillow, but a roof over our head and lots of clothes, how rich we are and yet how poor. What have we really lost on our journey, our love for our neighbour and compassion on those who cannot afford a space on the line, or have we lost God Himself. Take time to pray and get to know the Lord again, as when our time comes, we also will have nothing but our souls to offer, how beutiful is your soul. I often ask these clever and remarkable people who have had good jobs and take time to lecture me on how much of a pension and provision they have made for their retirement. But when I ask have they made provision for their souls, they do not understand, I say that today may be your last and
you may see the Lord tonight, how well have you provided for your soul. I ask myself the same each day as I can never seem to get it right. We will bring you more sayings and where they come from. There are many prayers on this websites and noven's to help nourish your soul, if you want any copies sending please let us know, or download them from below. thanks to Newcastle forum, we will still try to get more pictures than this
We will try to get some drawing to illustrate this shortly.
Nowadays we not only have a bed and pillow, but a roof over our head and lots of clothes, how rich we are and yet how poor. What have we really lost on our journey, our love for our neighbour and compassion on those who cannot afford a space on the line, or have we lost God Himself. Take time to pray and get to know the Lord again, as when our time comes, we also will have nothing but our souls to offer, how beutiful is your soul. I often ask these clever and remarkable people who have had good jobs and take time to lecture me on how much of a pension and provision they have made for their retirement. But when I ask have they made provision for their souls, they do not understand, I say that today may be your last and
you may see the Lord tonight, how well have you provided for your soul. I ask myself the same each day as I can never seem to get it right. We will bring you more sayings and where they come from. There are many prayers on this websites and noven's to help nourish your soul, if you want any copies sending please let us know, or download them from below. thanks to Newcastle forum, we will still try to get more pictures than this
This is a must about petrol and amusing Bible stories.
Thanks to Peter at English Martyrs
Click the frog to find out what Thomas Cook found from holiday makers.
Do you think your good with computers, click the frog to see how good others are.
Happy Easter
From all at St Oswald &
St Edmund Arrowsmith RC Church
Next Week is Pentecost Sunday and marks the end of our Easter celebrations for it is this time that Jesus went to heaven to be, once again, with His Father in heaven.
Please check Facebook and download pictures or stories
St Edmund Arrowsmith RC Church
Next Week is Pentecost Sunday and marks the end of our Easter celebrations for it is this time that Jesus went to heaven to be, once again, with His Father in heaven.
Please check Facebook and download pictures or stories
24 Hrs Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ
Click the above icon to participate in the 24hrs passion of Our Lord to ease his suffering
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Mass Times
Sunday 8.30 am and 10.30 am
Monday 9.15 am Tuesday 7.30 pm Wednesday 9.15 am Thursday 9.15 am Friday 7.30 pm Saturday 12.10 pm
For mass times of other churches please look on Notice Board under services - thanks
Sunday 8.30 am and 10.30 am
Monday 9.15 am Tuesday 7.30 pm Wednesday 9.15 am Thursday 9.15 am Friday 7.30 pm Saturday 12.10 pm
For mass times of other churches please look on Notice Board under services - thanks
The real face Jesus from the shroud of Turin
To view the real face of Jesus click the picture
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9dYZLPh8yc&feature=colike
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9dYZLPh8yc&feature=colike
Divine Mercy
Click the picture on the far left for the Divine Mercy.
At the Easter Vigil the candle is blessed and a cross drawn on with the letters A & O ( Alpha and Omega - beginning and End) and incense is inserted into each end of the cross.
The very beutiful service continues with the lighting of the candles and praising God, in the service our baptism vows are renewed and the congregation is once again sprinkled with Holy water to signify our baptism and washing away our sins to follow Christ. Have a very blessed Happy Easter.
Easter Sunday
Click the picture across to see our Church come alive on Easter Sunday as our dear Lord rises from the dead
On 18th May 2012 at 5 30 pm
8392, people viewed this site, if you re not yet part of our family, you are very welcome and we hope you like our family's site
Good Friday
The Alter was stripped bare to prepare for the Lords death at 3.00pm. See above see the altar comes back to life at the resurection of Christ on Easter Sunday
St Oswalds Easter Gardens
Please click the picture to view the Easter Gardens made by the children of
St Oswalds primary school
St Oswalds primary school
Calling Young Crusaders
Do you want to be part of a great team, we need young Crusaders to join the website. You will be given a topic to investigate and write about and it will be included on the website with your name. We will send you a certificate and medal and make you part of a great and exciting team. Please email family@stoswaldandstedmundarrowsmith.com with the heading Crusaders
St Joseph
There are 2 Feast Days - March 19 (for the Husband of Mary) & 1st May (Patron of workers), Patron of the church, patron of workers, patron of the sick, patron of the dying, fathers, carpenters, and social justice.
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St Joseph was a carpenter and a hard worker. The biggest theft which is commited daily is theft of company time, when
some do not work to the best of their ability or are late or lazy they are indeed stealing time from their employers. However to work hard and to offer this work up to God is a gift to God. St Joseph did indeed work hard and because he chose to take up the cross of looking after Mary and Jesus fully aware of the scriptures was also a wonderful gift to God.
some do not work to the best of their ability or are late or lazy they are indeed stealing time from their employers. However to work hard and to offer this work up to God is a gift to God. St Joseph did indeed work hard and because he chose to take up the cross of looking after Mary and Jesus fully aware of the scriptures was also a wonderful gift to God.
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Jesus needed to be brought up in a loving family and St Joseph worked hard to provide for them both. St Joseph was from the royal line of St David which fulfills the
scriptures. St Joseph was a caring but rightous man, when he found out that Mary was with child, he did not want her to be stoned, or disgraced but decided to divorce her quitely even at the real risk of himself being implimented and stoned to death himself.
scriptures. St Joseph was a caring but rightous man, when he found out that Mary was with child, he did not want her to be stoned, or disgraced but decided to divorce her quitely even at the real risk of himself being implimented and stoned to death himself.
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St Joseph was obedient to God and did whatever God told him, even leaving his family and friends in the middle of the night to go into the unknown world. His faith in God to provide was so strong to leave all his possessions and family and allow God to provide and lead him. St Joseph and his family were the first asylum seekers that we read about, seeking refuge from Herod in Egypt, then when settled returning when God told him to.
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St Joseph had searched for Jesus when lost in the temple and regardless of the courfew would risk himself for Jesus sake. We also know that St Joseph brought
Jesus up with the Scriptures and laws and took the family to the Passover each year in Jerusalem, which was a long journey for a poor mans family. St Joseph died just before Jesus started his ministry for his work was complet.e on the earth.
Jesus up with the Scriptures and laws and took the family to the Passover each year in Jerusalem, which was a long journey for a poor mans family. St Joseph died just before Jesus started his ministry for his work was complet.e on the earth.
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This history of burying a statue of St Joseph is hundred of years old (AD 1515), it originated in Europe with the Closter nuns who needed to expand their land, after they prayed to
St Joseph and buried medals their prayers were answered. The tradition now changed to buying statues. People pray to St Joseph if they want to move home. One thing is for sure
St Joseph holds a very dear and special place next to God the Father, God the Son and Mary Mother of Gods heart and if St Joseph takes your petition then how could God in his love refuse – Please pray to St Joseph
St Joseph and buried medals their prayers were answered. The tradition now changed to buying statues. People pray to St Joseph if they want to move home. One thing is for sure
St Joseph holds a very dear and special place next to God the Father, God the Son and Mary Mother of Gods heart and if St Joseph takes your petition then how could God in his love refuse – Please pray to St Joseph
How beautiful is our Altar have you wondered what the mosaic pictures represent
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The five mosaic panels a the front of the altar represents the
Evangelist
ox (Luke)
The centre panel depicts Christ, the Lamb sitting on the book of Seven Seals, also described in Reverlations.
The Book is the all wise memory of God, the abyss of the Divine Judgements. Christ has conquered the world has the right to unroll the Book of Destiny in sucessive ages (Rev 5).
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Eagle (John)
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Lion (Mark)
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man (Matthew)
Ride the Storm
I asked God to take away my pride
And God said No
He said it was not for him to take away
But for me to give up
I asked God to make my handicapped child
whole, and God said No
He said her spirit is whole
Her body is only temporary
I asked God to grant me patience
And God said No
He said patience is a by product of tribulation, it isnt granted but earned
And God said No
He said it was not for him to take away
But for me to give up
I asked God to make my handicapped child
whole, and God said No
He said her spirit is whole
Her body is only temporary
I asked God to grant me patience
And God said No
He said patience is a by product of tribulation, it isnt granted but earned
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I asked God to give me happiness
And God said No
He said he
gives blessings
Happiness is up to me
I asked God to spare me pain,
And God said No
He said Suffering drawns you
apart from wordly cares and brings you closer to Me.
And God said No
He said he
gives blessings
Happiness is up to me
I asked God to spare me pain,
And God said No
He said Suffering drawns you
apart from wordly cares and brings you closer to Me.
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I asked God to make my spirit grow
And God said No
He said I must grow on my own
But he will prune me to make me fruitful
I asked God to help me love others as much as He loves me
And God said, Ah finally you have the idea
Taken from the fransicans by Claudia
Minden Weiz
And God said No
He said I must grow on my own
But he will prune me to make me fruitful
I asked God to help me love others as much as He loves me
And God said, Ah finally you have the idea
Taken from the fransicans by Claudia
Minden Weiz
Cant kid a kidder
A colleague was telling me of an interview he went to, he was right for the job, had all the qualifications and experience but so did the other 900 applicants. He was told to be confident and so he was going to give it his best shot. When asked for his salary expectations, he asked for the ridiculous expecting to then be given a ballpoint figure or knocked down. The interviewer replied, ‘how about we offer you 6 weeks holiday, full medical and dental cover for you and your family. A brand new BMW company car every year and a paid holiday abroad’. My friend could not believe it he thought he had won the lottery, he sat up straight and said, Are you kidding me,
where the interviewer quickly replied‘yes’, ‘but you started it’.
where the interviewer quickly replied‘yes’, ‘but you started it’.
NIKE
This features prominently the Greek abbreviations for Jesus
Christ over the word NIKE the Greek work for victory. Nike was the goddess of victory, the equivalent of the Latin Victoria. At Rome special games were held in honour of Victoria and generals erected statues of her after a successful campaign. This became to be regarded as the protecting goddess of the Senate and the statue, set up by Augustus, was the cause of the final combat between Christianity and paganism toward the end of the fourth century.
Victoria had alters in camp, a special set of worshippers and colleges,
temples in Rome and through out the empire and a festival on 1st
November. It was after the battle of Atrium in 27BC that Augustus set up a statue of Victoria, it was also to commemorate the same victory that Marcus Agrippa built the Pantheon. In 610 Pope Boniface IV transformed the Pantheon into a church and dedicated it to the
Mother of God and all the Holy Martyrs.
Christ over the word NIKE the Greek work for victory. Nike was the goddess of victory, the equivalent of the Latin Victoria. At Rome special games were held in honour of Victoria and generals erected statues of her after a successful campaign. This became to be regarded as the protecting goddess of the Senate and the statue, set up by Augustus, was the cause of the final combat between Christianity and paganism toward the end of the fourth century.
Victoria had alters in camp, a special set of worshippers and colleges,
temples in Rome and through out the empire and a festival on 1st
November. It was after the battle of Atrium in 27BC that Augustus set up a statue of Victoria, it was also to commemorate the same victory that Marcus Agrippa built the Pantheon. In 610 Pope Boniface IV transformed the Pantheon into a church and dedicated it to the
Mother of God and all the Holy Martyrs.
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In the 9th Century Pope Gregory IV transferred the feast to 1st November which had originally been the pagan festival of Victoria (NIKE) so
today that feast celebrates the victory of Christ and his Saints. On the other side of the great central symbol of Christ the Victor we see the keys and tiara with the crown and the wheat.
‘Tiara’ is a Greek work for the Persian royal head dress. It was the name given to the Triple Crown worn by the Pope. The Keys remind us of the words of Christ to St Peter, “to thee I will give the keys of the kingdom of heaven”. The power of the keys means the spiritual authority and jurisdiction in the Church symbolised by the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Christ gave St Peter full pastoral responsibility to feed his flock. The Pope as St Peters successor has this power in a supreme way.
today that feast celebrates the victory of Christ and his Saints. On the other side of the great central symbol of Christ the Victor we see the keys and tiara with the crown and the wheat.
‘Tiara’ is a Greek work for the Persian royal head dress. It was the name given to the Triple Crown worn by the Pope. The Keys remind us of the words of Christ to St Peter, “to thee I will give the keys of the kingdom of heaven”. The power of the keys means the spiritual authority and jurisdiction in the Church symbolised by the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Christ gave St Peter full pastoral responsibility to feed his flock. The Pope as St Peters successor has this power in a supreme way.
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The crown and the wheat recall the Holy Eucharist in which
wheaten bread is changed into the Body and Blood of the living Christ. We recall the last words of St Ignatius before he was thrown to the lions. “I am the wheat of Christ, I am going to be ground with the teeth of wild beasts, that I may be found pure bread”.
wheaten bread is changed into the Body and Blood of the living Christ. We recall the last words of St Ignatius before he was thrown to the lions. “I am the wheat of Christ, I am going to be ground with the teeth of wild beasts, that I may be found pure bread”.
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The picture shows Susan Sankey, an alter server at the 8:30 am Sunday Mass receiving a Catenian bursary Award of £350 from John Francis of the St. Helens Circle of the Catenian Association. In July of this year Susan, a pupil at Winstanley College is going to Kenya to help in a Lasallian project in that country. Participants have to raise all their own expenses to be included in the project which usually amounts to about £1500. Bursary awards are also available to young people between the ages of 16 and 24 partaking in charitable projects at home and abroad and also those who go to Lourdes as helpers with the Diocesan or HCPT pilgrimages. Further details and application forms are available on the web site below and clicking on the Bursary connection. All applicatyions MUST be completed on line
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The Catenian Association was founded in Manchester in March 1908, under the patronage of Bishop Louis Charles Casartelli and celebrated its centenary in 2008. The
Association was originally called The Chums Benevolent Association and changed
its name to the current one in 1910. The name derives from the Latin word Catena, a decorative chain. The symbolism is plain as a chain is formed of individual links, so are individual members of the Association and the Circles/Groups – as branches of the Association are called – united by the objects of membership. These objects are to encourage members to meet socially; to assist where possible, with justice to others, their business interests; to provide benevolence for needy members and their families, and to widows and children of deceased members when necessary; to assist Catholic youth to find suitable employment and to provide bursary awards to young people for charitable projects at home and in the third world. Since its foundation the Association has grown and now has over 10500 members in the UK, Australia, Ireland, Malta, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Zambia and Goa
Association was originally called The Chums Benevolent Association and changed
its name to the current one in 1910. The name derives from the Latin word Catena, a decorative chain. The symbolism is plain as a chain is formed of individual links, so are individual members of the Association and the Circles/Groups – as branches of the Association are called – united by the objects of membership. These objects are to encourage members to meet socially; to assist where possible, with justice to others, their business interests; to provide benevolence for needy members and their families, and to widows and children of deceased members when necessary; to assist Catholic youth to find suitable employment and to provide bursary awards to young people for charitable projects at home and in the third world. Since its foundation the Association has grown and now has over 10500 members in the UK, Australia, Ireland, Malta, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Zambia and Goa
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To celebrate its centenary the Association held a number of major events including masses in the Cathedrals of Westminster and
Liverpool and a special mass held in York Minster in October 2008. The Association’s Centenary National Conference was held in its birth place of Manchester in May 2008 for the first time in the Association’s history. To celebrate its centenary the Association held a number of major events including masses in the Cathedrals of Westminster and Liverpool and a special mass held in York Minster in October 2008. The Association’s Centenary National Conference was held in its birth place of Manchester in May 2008 for the first time in the Association’s history
If you would like further information about membership
or the Association visit our website at www.thecatenians.com or telephone Jim Scotson on 01744.751627 or speak to John Francis in the Piety Shop after 8:30 am Sunday Mass
Liverpool and a special mass held in York Minster in October 2008. The Association’s Centenary National Conference was held in its birth place of Manchester in May 2008 for the first time in the Association’s history. To celebrate its centenary the Association held a number of major events including masses in the Cathedrals of Westminster and Liverpool and a special mass held in York Minster in October 2008. The Association’s Centenary National Conference was held in its birth place of Manchester in May 2008 for the first time in the Association’s history
If you would like further information about membership
or the Association visit our website at www.thecatenians.com or telephone Jim Scotson on 01744.751627 or speak to John Francis in the Piety Shop after 8:30 am Sunday Mass
A Prayer for Lent
Fasting and Feasting by William Arthur Ward, Issue 89 of the Catholic Pic
Fast from judging others, feast on the Christ dwelling in them
Fast from emphasis on differences, feast on the unity of life
Fast from apparent darkness, feast on the reality of light
Fast from thoughts of illness, feast on the healing powers of God
Fast from discontentment, feast on gratitude
Fast from anger, feast on patience
Fast from pessimism, feast on optimism
Fast from worry, feast on divine order
Fast from complaining, feast on appreciation
Fast from negatives, feast on affirmatives
Fast from unrelenting pressures, feast on unceasing prayer
Fast from hostility, feast on non resistance
Fast from bitterness, feast on forgiveness
Fast from self concern, feast on compassion for others
Fast from discouragement, feast on hope
Fast from lethargy, feast on enthusiasm
Fast from thoughts that weaken, feast on promises that inspire
Fast from shadows of sorrow, feast onthe sunlight of serentity
Fast from the idle gossip, feast on purposeful silence
Fast from problems that overwhelm, feast on prayer that sustains
Fast from judging others, feast on the Christ dwelling in them
Fast from emphasis on differences, feast on the unity of life
Fast from apparent darkness, feast on the reality of light
Fast from thoughts of illness, feast on the healing powers of God
Fast from discontentment, feast on gratitude
Fast from anger, feast on patience
Fast from pessimism, feast on optimism
Fast from worry, feast on divine order
Fast from complaining, feast on appreciation
Fast from negatives, feast on affirmatives
Fast from unrelenting pressures, feast on unceasing prayer
Fast from hostility, feast on non resistance
Fast from bitterness, feast on forgiveness
Fast from self concern, feast on compassion for others
Fast from discouragement, feast on hope
Fast from lethargy, feast on enthusiasm
Fast from thoughts that weaken, feast on promises that inspire
Fast from shadows of sorrow, feast onthe sunlight of serentity
Fast from the idle gossip, feast on purposeful silence
Fast from problems that overwhelm, feast on prayer that sustains
Christian humour
There were three athiest sitting behind three Christians at a football game. The men decided to antagonize the Christians to get them to move. One of them said, loud enough for the others to hear, "I think I will move to CAlifornia, there are only 100 Christians living there", the other piped up, I want to move to Washington, there are only 50 Christians there", The third chap said, "I want to move to Idaho there are only 25 Christians living there". One of the Christians turned and looked all three men calmly in the eye before saying, "Why dont you go to hell, there are no Christians there"
Thanks to the Franciscans magazine
Thanks to the Franciscans magazine
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This is our Christian Feast
Remember Faith cannot be bought, so don’t lose it.
Do you know what these letters mean
They are a monogram formed of iota, eta and sigma, the first three letters of the Greek word for Jesus.
IHCOYC using the roman alphabet. The horizontal line that forms the cross by surmounting the h is the sign for an abbreviation. Until medieval times, this symbol with the Angus Dei, the Crown of Thorns and the Nails were regarded as a main emblem of the sufferings and death of Christ.
IHCOYC using the roman alphabet. The horizontal line that forms the cross by surmounting the h is the sign for an abbreviation. Until medieval times, this symbol with the Angus Dei, the Crown of Thorns and the Nails were regarded as a main emblem of the sufferings and death of Christ.
Have you ever wondered why the pelican is so important in the Catholic faith.
The Pelican is a symbol of love and self sacrifice. When there was a shortage of food the pelican was seen to take parts of its own flesh to feed its young. By sacrificing its body and blood to feed the young it allows them to live and grow, he/she dies. Christ sacrifised himself for us giving us his pressious body and blood so we may live with no thought for himself. The Pelican has been a a symbol of Christianity from the early ages and represents the church.
A Prayer to Our Blessed Lady for those who are growing old
Take my hand, O Blessed Mother
Hold me firmly lest I fall
I am nervous when I am walking
And to thee I humbly call
Guide me over every crossing
Watch me when I’m on the stairs
Let me know You are beside me
Listen to my fervent prayer
Bring me to my destination
With you safely, every day
Help me with each undertaking
As the hours they pass away
And when the evening falls upon me
And I fear to be alone
Take my hand O Blessed Mother
Please stay with me in my home
~Amen~
Yesterday was the Feast day of the Immaculate Conception
On 7th January 1844
St Bernadette was born,
Christened Marie Bernarde, but always known as Bernadette. A candle set fire to Bernadette’s mothers blouse and she was badly burned which meant she was not able to feed her child and Bernadette was sent away for eighteen months to a wet nurse. The family started to grow and with the changing of times the family found it hard to make ends meet, the new steam powered mills were threatening their livelihood as they only rented the old mill.
In 1849 Francois was blinded in his left eye when a chip of stone hit him. In 1851 their young son
Jean-Marie died. In 1852 another disaster struck, the mill was sold and the new owner decided he wanted it for himself, so Francois was left with no work. He was unable to pay the rent and they were forced to leave Boly Mill in 1854. A year later Bernadette caught cholera which had claimed 38 lives in Lourdes. She recovered but was never fully well and suffered from Asthma. Bernadette’s grandmother died this year and left a little money which they used to rent the mill at Arcizac ez Angles, but tragedy struck again their harvest failed through drought. They were again evicted from their
home. They tried to rent Rives House which was thought of as a hovel, but they could not even afford this little rent and yet again was evicted and forced to take shelter in the Cachot, which was the punishment cell of a disused prison. They were penniless and the
whole family had to work in order to survive. Bernadette looked after her bothers and sister and collected bones and scrap iron to sell to the rag and bones woman, and helped out at her aunts tavern.
St Bernadette was born,
Christened Marie Bernarde, but always known as Bernadette. A candle set fire to Bernadette’s mothers blouse and she was badly burned which meant she was not able to feed her child and Bernadette was sent away for eighteen months to a wet nurse. The family started to grow and with the changing of times the family found it hard to make ends meet, the new steam powered mills were threatening their livelihood as they only rented the old mill.
In 1849 Francois was blinded in his left eye when a chip of stone hit him. In 1851 their young son
Jean-Marie died. In 1852 another disaster struck, the mill was sold and the new owner decided he wanted it for himself, so Francois was left with no work. He was unable to pay the rent and they were forced to leave Boly Mill in 1854. A year later Bernadette caught cholera which had claimed 38 lives in Lourdes. She recovered but was never fully well and suffered from Asthma. Bernadette’s grandmother died this year and left a little money which they used to rent the mill at Arcizac ez Angles, but tragedy struck again their harvest failed through drought. They were again evicted from their
home. They tried to rent Rives House which was thought of as a hovel, but they could not even afford this little rent and yet again was evicted and forced to take shelter in the Cachot, which was the punishment cell of a disused prison. They were penniless and the
whole family had to work in order to survive. Bernadette looked after her bothers and sister and collected bones and scrap iron to sell to the rag and bones woman, and helped out at her aunts tavern.
Boly Mill at the time of the Apparations
Famine raged through the area, times were very hard. On 27thMarch 1857 the baker Maisongrosse accused
Francois of stealing. He was
arrested and imprisoned, but was released a week later through lack of evidence. He was by this time a broken man, penniless and humiliated.
In September 1857 Bernadette went into service so there would be one less mouth to feed. Bernadette was 13 and longed for her family. She
could not read or write and did not know her catechist, but was promised she
could make her first Holy Communion, which she looked forward to. She tried
repeatedly to remember the responses in France to the catechism but as she was
from a small village could not and was often shouted at and humiliated.
In 1858 she persuaded her parents to allow her to
come home and on 21st
January she began to attend lessons at the paupers class at the hospice ran by
the Sisters of Charity of Nevers.
Francois of stealing. He was
arrested and imprisoned, but was released a week later through lack of evidence. He was by this time a broken man, penniless and humiliated.
In September 1857 Bernadette went into service so there would be one less mouth to feed. Bernadette was 13 and longed for her family. She
could not read or write and did not know her catechist, but was promised she
could make her first Holy Communion, which she looked forward to. She tried
repeatedly to remember the responses in France to the catechism but as she was
from a small village could not and was often shouted at and humiliated.
In 1858 she persuaded her parents to allow her to
come home and on 21st
January she began to attend lessons at the paupers class at the hospice ran by
the Sisters of Charity of Nevers.
The Cachot
On 11thFebruary 1858 the fire was out in the cachot as the last log was sold the previous day for food, so Bernadette set off to look for firewood with her sister and a friend. They noticed a pile of dead wood inside the grotto but there was a stream infront which they needed to cross. Already cold and Bernadette suffering from cronic asthma did not want to get cold and wet and asked the other two for
help, but they refused, she took off her clogs and went through the stream to the grotto. A gust of wind made her look up to the grotto and she saw a lady in white she was afraid and showed her Rosary to the lady. The Lady made the sign of the cross and so did Bernadette and they began to pray. After her mother learned of the apparition she was very angry with Bernadette and forbid her to go there
again. However on 14th February with her Fathers permission she returned and saw the Lady again which she sprinkled with Holy water, Our Lady smiled at her again and they again began to pray.
help, but they refused, she took off her clogs and went through the stream to the grotto. A gust of wind made her look up to the grotto and she saw a lady in white she was afraid and showed her Rosary to the lady. The Lady made the sign of the cross and so did Bernadette and they began to pray. After her mother learned of the apparition she was very angry with Bernadette and forbid her to go there
again. However on 14th February with her Fathers permission she returned and saw the Lady again which she sprinkled with Holy water, Our Lady smiled at her again and they again began to pray.
The Grotto
Bernadette went again to the grotto on 18thFeburary
and armed with pen and paper asked our Lady to write her name, our Lady said to
her that would not be necessary and asked her to come and see her every day for the next fortnight, and promised her happiness not in this world but the next. Bernadette was rigorously questioned by
the then Police Officer in charge Jacomet.
and armed with pen and paper asked our Lady to write her name, our Lady said to
her that would not be necessary and asked her to come and see her every day for the next fortnight, and promised her happiness not in this world but the next. Bernadette was rigorously questioned by
the then Police Officer in charge Jacomet.
The Grotto at the time of the Appations
On 24th February 300 people watched as
Bernadette kissed the ground, and when she was questioned replied, “The Lady said to me, Penitence, penitence, penitence, and pray to God for the conversion of sinners” On 25th February (9th apparition) Bernadette was watched while she got up and dug a hole which began to fill with muddy water and after her third attempt was able to drink the water which came up. Then she washed her face in the muddy water and fed herself with grass, this must have seemed like she had gone insane. People cried out in disgust, but she replied was doing what she was told, go and drink from the stream and wash your face in the stream.
After again being questioned by the Imperial Prosecutor Dutour, she again returned to the Grotto where clear water was flowing from the stream. On the 12 apparition Catherine Latapie recovered use of her paralysed hand after bathing in the water. On her 13th apparition our Lady told Bernadette to let the people come in procession and have a chapel built here. The parish priest would have none 0 it and told Bernadette to ask the Lady her name. The following day Bernadette tackled the priest again saying the lady still wants a chapel. The priest told her again, “get her name and tell her to make the rosebush at the grotto bloom”. On 25thMarch during the
night Bernadette felt she was being called and went to the grotto at 5.00 am, again she asked for her name, saying “please Mademoisell, would you be so kind to tell me your name”, after many request, our Lady looked to heaven and said, “I am the Immaculate conception.
Bernadette continued to suffer indignities and jealously at the hands of the nuns which she joined in Nevers. Her body lied uncorrupted in Nevers, see pictures, she has not been preserved nor embalmed but due to her sinless life her body will never decay. These are some old
pictures which we have and would like to share with you. Below is the healing waters of Lourdes and St Bernadette as she is today.
Bernadette kissed the ground, and when she was questioned replied, “The Lady said to me, Penitence, penitence, penitence, and pray to God for the conversion of sinners” On 25th February (9th apparition) Bernadette was watched while she got up and dug a hole which began to fill with muddy water and after her third attempt was able to drink the water which came up. Then she washed her face in the muddy water and fed herself with grass, this must have seemed like she had gone insane. People cried out in disgust, but she replied was doing what she was told, go and drink from the stream and wash your face in the stream.
After again being questioned by the Imperial Prosecutor Dutour, she again returned to the Grotto where clear water was flowing from the stream. On the 12 apparition Catherine Latapie recovered use of her paralysed hand after bathing in the water. On her 13th apparition our Lady told Bernadette to let the people come in procession and have a chapel built here. The parish priest would have none 0 it and told Bernadette to ask the Lady her name. The following day Bernadette tackled the priest again saying the lady still wants a chapel. The priest told her again, “get her name and tell her to make the rosebush at the grotto bloom”. On 25thMarch during the
night Bernadette felt she was being called and went to the grotto at 5.00 am, again she asked for her name, saying “please Mademoisell, would you be so kind to tell me your name”, after many request, our Lady looked to heaven and said, “I am the Immaculate conception.
Bernadette continued to suffer indignities and jealously at the hands of the nuns which she joined in Nevers. Her body lied uncorrupted in Nevers, see pictures, she has not been preserved nor embalmed but due to her sinless life her body will never decay. These are some old
pictures which we have and would like to share with you. Below is the healing waters of Lourdes and St Bernadette as she is today.
Dear Lord
So far today I'm doing ok
I have not gossiped, lost my temper, been greedy, grumpy, nasty, selfish or self indulgent I have not whined, complained, cursed or eaten any chocolate I have not charged anything to my credit card, or bought anything exorbitant or acted on impulse. However, I will be getting out of bed in a minute and think I may need your help soon.
I have not gossiped, lost my temper, been greedy, grumpy, nasty, selfish or self indulgent I have not whined, complained, cursed or eaten any chocolate I have not charged anything to my credit card, or bought anything exorbitant or acted on impulse. However, I will be getting out of bed in a minute and think I may need your help soon.
Prayer to St Joseph The Workman
Oh Glorious St Joseph, model of all those who are devoted to labour, obtain for me the grace to work conscientiously, putting the call of duty above my natural inclinations, to w0rk with gratitude and joy, in a spirit of penance for the remission of my sins, considering it an honour to employ and develop by means of labour the gifts received from God. To work with order, peace, moderation and patience without ever shrinking from weariness and difficulties, to work above all with purity of intention and detachment from self, having always death before my eyes and the account tht I must render of time lost, of talents wasted, of good omitted, of vain complacency in success, so fatal to the work of God. All for Jesus, all through Mary. All after your example, Oh Patriarch St Joseph. Such shall be my watchword in life and in death ~Amen~
Fr John Dear wrote a very moving booklet about the importance of animals and Gods plan. It is a free booklet, hope you enjoy it
Click the dogs to view
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Daily Novena Prayer to St Joseph
Almighty God, you have chosen St Joseph to be the mainstay of Jesus and Mary, the wise and faithful servant in whom they could trust.
We pray that he may truly be the guardian of your Church, that he may inspire with confidence those who are devoted to him; that he may give security to those who work in the vineyard of Your Son, and finally, that he may be a source of strength to us, who wish like him, to dedicate ourselves to Christ's service, now and in times to come, Amen
thanks to St Josephs Missionary Society PO Box 3608 Maidenhead SL6 7UX
New Blogg
The blog has been set up, click on blog/Acklowledgments/emails/videos these will be moved over asap. Please leave a comment by clicking on comment and filling in the form, how can we improve. Please be polite this is a church website love to hear from you. PLEASE BEAR WITH US AS THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE BLOG AT PRESENT AND WE ARE WORKING TO FIX IT
Pub Names
Ever wondered where pubs get their names. Pubs got their names from the Romans. In Rome the Romans hung bunches of vine leaves outside to entice people, due to the climate here there were no such luxuries so they had to hang out bushes as signs of pubs, hence the name The Bush or Bull & Bush.
The early pubs were run for pilgrims on their way to the crusades in the Holy Land, such as Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, which is apparently the oldest pub in England where troops use to stop over on their way to meet Richard the Lion heart. Other names are Lamb & Flag, the lamb (Christ) and the flag (Crusaders). It was a sign to indicate they were welcome and among Christians.
The early pubs were run for pilgrims on their way to the crusades in the Holy Land, such as Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, which is apparently the oldest pub in England where troops use to stop over on their way to meet Richard the Lion heart. Other names are Lamb & Flag, the lamb (Christ) and the flag (Crusaders). It was a sign to indicate they were welcome and among Christians.
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Other religious names indicating meeting places was the Mitre, The ship (The Ark), The Anchor (Christian Faith), Cross Keys, (St Peter and the keys to Heaven), The Fleece (The Lamb), The Angel, The Eagle and child (Eagle being white, not gold, golden lions were part of the royal coat of
arms hence prodestant). However some landlords showed allegiance to Henry VIII who was against Catholics and they changed the name to Kings Head, The Crown, etc. The Rising Sun was from Edward III. Where it indictates animals, such as bear or cock, duck & dog these were places for bear and cock baiting and shooting. Others such as Anglia Inn are areas of fishing.
arms hence prodestant). However some landlords showed allegiance to Henry VIII who was against Catholics and they changed the name to Kings Head, The Crown, etc. The Rising Sun was from Edward III. Where it indictates animals, such as bear or cock, duck & dog these were places for bear and cock baiting and shooting. Others such as Anglia Inn are areas of fishing.
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Other names come from towns which have done well such as The Golden Fleece is named after wool trade, Smiths Inn or Arms are to do with Blacksmiths Coach & Horses, Railway Inn, etc. What do the pub names around you tell you of where you live.
Two very interesting articles
Please click these two picures to view
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PLEASE DO NOT MOVE THE SILVER COLOURED BOX FROM THE BACK OF THE CHURCH THIS IS FOR ARTICLES FOR THE WEBSITE.
Many thanks for the item found today, we will look into this and report our findings.
The great Bowler Hat or (Coke Hat)
Do you know where the Bowler hat came from. It was designed for game keepers and became a state symbol of the upwardly mobile. As well as brands, the Victorians loved to create icons, and the pursuit of progress was scarcely possible if you wore the wrong hat. It was William Coke (pronounced Cook), who became the first Earl of Leicester on the ascension of Queen Victoria and his family lived at Holkham Hall in Norfolk.
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His son also known as William Coke was a great agriculturist and was worried about the estates game keepers whose head were in danger of damage from low flying branches and aggressive poachers. To protect them he designed a tough hat made of felt and stiffened with shellic. He took his design to the family Hatter which was Locks of St James Street, and asked them to make the hat.
When it was made it was only a great fit but he found he could actually stand on it and was very protective and ordered 8. They charged him 12 shillings each for them. They did not actually make the hats but sent the design to another Hatter, which were two brothers William, and James Bowler, hence the name. They were quickly adopted by Engineers and Bankers for their safety and became the symbol of progress for he socially climbing Victorians.
All the gamekeepers at Holkham hall still were the bowler and it is know as the Coke hat or the Billy Coke hat after its designer.
When it was made it was only a great fit but he found he could actually stand on it and was very protective and ordered 8. They charged him 12 shillings each for them. They did not actually make the hats but sent the design to another Hatter, which were two brothers William, and James Bowler, hence the name. They were quickly adopted by Engineers and Bankers for their safety and became the symbol of progress for he socially climbing Victorians.
All the gamekeepers at Holkham hall still were the bowler and it is know as the Coke hat or the Billy Coke hat after its designer.
Makes perfect Sense
A little boy was fascinated looking through the old bible. As he was turning the pages suddenly something fell out. He picked up the object with a thoughtful look which was a leaf that had been pressed between the pages. His father asked what have you got there son, the boy replied, "I think it is Adams underwear"
From school magazine, thanks
From school magazine, thanks
An Evening Prayer to Mary
Night is falling Mother Dear,
The long day is o’ver Before your loving image I’m kneeling once more. Thank you for keeping me safe through the day. And I ask you this night, to keep evil away. Many times I have fallen today Mother dear, Many graces neglected since last I knelt here Will you not in pity, Mine mother mild Ask Jesus to pardon the sins of your child I’m going to rest for The days work is done Its hours and its moments have passed one by one. And the God who will judge me has counted each fall, In his book they are written, against the last day Oh Mother ask Jesus to wash them away For one drop of his blood, which for sinners was spilt Is sufficient to cleanse the whole world from its guilt If ere the dawn I should draw my last breath and the sleep that I take be the long sleep of the death, Be near me dear Mother for Jesus sake When my soul on eternity shore shall awake. Prayer of Hope to Our Lord
A Life without purpose is barren indeed
There cant be a harvest unless You plant seeds, There cant be attainment unless theres a goal. And a mans but a robot unless theres a soul. If we send no ships out, No ships will come in And unless there's a contest. Nobody can win For games cant be won unless They are played, and Prayers cant be answered Unless they are prayed So, whatever is wrong with Your life today You'll find a solution if you Kneed down and pray Not just for pleasure enjoyment And health Not just for honours, prestige and wealth. But pray for a purpose to make life worth living And pray for the joy of unselfish giving For Great is your gladness and Rich is your reward When you make your lifes purpose The choice of the Lord Have a blessed day |
Devotion to
the Five Wounds
Please click on the link below for the five Holy wounds of Christ http://fisheaters.com/5wounds.html
I said a Prayer for you today
I said a prayer for you today
And knew God must have heard
I felt the answer in my heart
Although he said not a word
I didn't ask for wealth or fame
I knew you wouldn't mind
I asked him to send treasures of a far more lasting kind
I asked that he'd be near you
At the start of each new day
To grant you health and blessings
And friends to share your way
I asked for happiness for you
In all things great and small
But it was for his dear loving care
I prayed for most of all.
And knew God must have heard
I felt the answer in my heart
Although he said not a word
I didn't ask for wealth or fame
I knew you wouldn't mind
I asked him to send treasures of a far more lasting kind
I asked that he'd be near you
At the start of each new day
To grant you health and blessings
And friends to share your way
I asked for happiness for you
In all things great and small
But it was for his dear loving care
I prayed for most of all.
How great is hindsight
I was never one for sports but was inspired by the many great divers and swimmers going for the olympics, I could easily be one of them. I enrolled at my local swimming baths, bought all the latest designer gear, yes this is it. I'm going to do it. Second week passed, I'm feeling and looking great. Piece by peice I collect my designer gear and am proud to show it off, new bag, new track suite to travel to the baths, new towel, hair dryer.
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I had seen this young man with earphones a very professional swimmer, possibly professional, a teacher maybe. I watched as he swam length after length in perfect rythm. I could model myself on him. After the end of the second week I decided to the fatal question. He was resting at the shallow end of the pool, so strutting my stuff and showing my designer swimwear I stood up in the pool and saunted across slowly to him. He saw my attention was on him and stood with a look of fear at me. When I got to him, my head held high and proud, to let him know with all my gear I am also in the club, I smiled and asked, "he dude, where did you get your waterpoof ipod from, are you listening to the radio or what, that is really cool, I must get one also", to which he looked with total astonishment and said they are earplugs, I have a sore ear. Yeah so wear a plaster, I then showed how to swim face down, think I may be out of my depth, what do you think!
News Flash
Click the dog to view Bear Attack story
click the bee below to view artical
click the bee below to view artical
Cant beleive it, but its true
In a hospitals Intensive Care Unit, patients always died
in the same bed, on Sunday morning, at about 11.00 am, regardless of their medical condition. This puzzled the doctors and some even thought it had something to do with the supernatural. No one could solve the mystery as to why the deaths occurred around 11.00 am Sunday, so a worldwide team of experts was assembled to investigate the cause of the incidents.
in the same bed, on Sunday morning, at about 11.00 am, regardless of their medical condition. This puzzled the doctors and some even thought it had something to do with the supernatural. No one could solve the mystery as to why the deaths occurred around 11.00 am Sunday, so a worldwide team of experts was assembled to investigate the cause of the incidents.
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The next Sunday morning, a few minutes before 11.00 am all of the doctors and nurses
nervously waited outside the ward to see for themselves, what the terrible phenomenon was all about. Some were holding wooden crosses, prayer books, and other Holy objects to ward off
the evil spirits. Just when the clock struck 11.00 am Jimmy Johnson the part time Sunday sweeper, entered the ward and unplugged the life support system, so he could use his vacuum cleaner.
nervously waited outside the ward to see for themselves, what the terrible phenomenon was all about. Some were holding wooden crosses, prayer books, and other Holy objects to ward off
the evil spirits. Just when the clock struck 11.00 am Jimmy Johnson the part time Sunday sweeper, entered the ward and unplugged the life support system, so he could use his vacuum cleaner.
Poor Man
A woman came home to find her husband in the kitchen shaking frantically, almost in a dancing frenzy, with some kind of wire running
from his waist toward the electric kettle. Intending to jolt him away from the
deadly current, she whacked him with a handy plank of wood, breaking his arm in two places. Up to that moment, he had been happily listening to his walkman.
from his waist toward the electric kettle. Intending to jolt him away from the
deadly current, she whacked him with a handy plank of wood, breaking his arm in two places. Up to that moment, he had been happily listening to his walkman.
Poetic Justic
Iraqi terrorist Khay Rahnajet made a devise to kill and hurt
many people. However he didn’t pay enough postage on the letter bomb. It came back with “Return to Sender” stamped on it. Forgetting it was a bomb, he opened it and was blown to bits. God is good
many people. However he didn’t pay enough postage on the letter bomb. It came back with “Return to Sender” stamped on it. Forgetting it was a bomb, he opened it and was blown to bits. God is good
When I saw this very old picture I was compelled to share it with you, please click on the slideshow
Picture courtesey of David Birmingham
Click below apologies to Yorkshire
Click on the cross across to view nice story,
thanks again to Peter English Martrs |  |
Here are more items made on the prioner of war site in Ashton by the Prisoners of War. It appears they liked it here so much that many did not want to return to their home.
One famous prisoner of war was Bernhard Carl "Bert" Trautmann who served in the Ludwarfger and gained four medals, he was captured and when the war was ended refused to leave and settled in Lancashire. He play for St Helens, then later for Manchester city. The club's decision to sign a former Axis paratrooper sparked protests, with 20,000 people attending a demonstration. (A cigarette case made by Antonio whilst in POW Camp 50 - Haydock Park. The little book is an English/Italian phrase book available to prisoners at the time. A
favourite pastime of all soldiers seemed to be cigarettes...)
favourite pastime of all soldiers seemed to be cigarettes...)
This is one of the rare photos of the camp site which was behind Haydock Park
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Below are pictures of the camp
There was many camps around Ashton, Bryn, Bickerstaff, Wigan
Do you have any memories of any POW camps or the war which you would like to share with us, please email us on the family email - thanks |  Below is a chaps childhood memory of the camp when he was a young boy, "And what a Adventure playing in the old POW camp. the huts where still there and so was the Water Tower. To be in our gang you had to climb up to the top of the tower and walk round the outside of the Water Tank. I can also rember a huge tip some where to the rear of the camp where we dug for old Bottles all.
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Exposition 11.00 am Saturday to 12.00 noon
Confessions 11.00 am to 12.00 noon Saturday PLEASE CHECK FIRST
Baptisims (by appointment only) - Sunday 12.00 noon
The Holy Hand may be venerated by appointment
Baptisims (by appointment only) - Sunday 12.00 noon
The Holy Hand may be venerated by appointment
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Thanks to Peter
Private intention
"Come to me all who are tired of carrying heavy loads and I will give you rest" Matthew 11:28
Prayer Petition, intentions
Do you want to send a petition to be included in our masses, if so email parish@stoswaldandstedmundarrowsmith.com with a heading Private intention, this will be handled in confidence by the Priest only and then destroyed or use the form at the bottom of this page.
Thoughtful stitches
Here is a small quilt which a young lady made in school, of St Edmund Arrowsmith. It now hangs in the shop for all to enjoy. With grateful thanks to Helen for the picture
The Work house Wigan
There were several workhouses in Wigan, one which now is a clinic in Wigan, another which later became Billinge hospital, now demolished, and another in Scholes Wigan. In the 1930-40's the recession was so great that most people struggled to survive. A lot of men who worked in the pits and suffered such injuries that they were forced to come out of the pit disabled and unable to find work, They also with their families ended up in the workhouse. All men, women and children would be seperated. They would be taken to seperate parts of the workhouse and subjected to such humiliating admissions, that some women would pass out. They would be medically examined, bathed and the childrens hair would be shaved. They would be given a uniform to wear and would not be allowed out again except for very special conditions. It appears they were in jail and their only crime was to be poor. They would be woke up at 6.30 am in the summer and 7.30 am in the winter and at 8.00 pm the lights would be turned out, with total disregard.
Many people would rather risk the cold and night rather than going into the workhouse. However some would visit a workhouse overnight when absolutely desperate, these poor souls would be treated worse as the authorities did not want them in society but wanted them to be shut away and not offending decent people by their presence in society. They would be told to 'either break the law and get put away for a short while or go to the work house and we will be more lenient with you'. Pauper funerals would often be without mouners. The workhouse inmates would be asked to attend their fellows mates funeral but they would often refuse, one of their saying was 'rattle his bones over the stones hes only a pauper whom nobody owns' The coffin would be of the cheapest and buried in an unmarked grave where several may be also buried. If unclaimed within 48 hours under the 1832 Anatomy Act bodies could be donated to the medical research and training.
Charlie Chaplin
It is reported that there were two great screen actors through sheer hard work, one was Charlie Chaplin and the other was Norman Wisdom. Charlie Chaplin found himself in the workhouse. He came from an acting background. He was sent to Lambeth Union Workhouse with his mother, brother and sister, where all were seperated and later he was sent to central London District School and later again to the workhouse where he suffered all the usual admission of getting his hair cut short. In his autobiography, Chaplain recalls that on Saturday afternoon, the bath-house was reserved for the infants who were bathed by older girls — he suffered the ignominy of receiving an all-over wash with a face-cloth from a fourteen year-old. During his remaining time there, he caught ringworm — an infectious disease of the scalp which was common amongst pauper children. Its treatment required the head to be shaved and treated with iodine which made sufferers the subject of ridicule by other boys.
Illustration of mens dining room
The workhouses varied and in 1896 a surgeon visiting the workhouse sampled the food and commented, 'I was invited to taste the dinner of the day, which happened to be soup. I was rash enough to take a breakfast cupful, with a piece of their excellent bread, and I paid the penalty of a severe attack of indigestion. A professional cook and five bakers are employed here, and have half-a-dozen inmates to assist them. Black beetles, as at Ecclesall, are a great nuisance, and occasionally get into the food, but vigorous steps are being taken to decimate them'.
A typical womens dining room
Will Cooks (resident of the workhouse) tasted his first meal in the work house in 1906 he said, 'one day I went into the dining-room and found women sitting on the long forms, some sullen, some crying. In front of each was a basin of what was alleged to be broth… The staple diet when I joined the Board was skilly. I have seen the old people, when this stuff was put before them, picking out black specks from the oatmeal. These were caused by rats, which had the undisturbed run of the oatmeal bin. No attempt was made to cleanse the oatmeal before it was prepared for the old people'.
Children in the workhouse
Women who had children out of wedlock would often be disowned by their families and end up in the work house, during and after their pregnancy. Some familes when the husband had died would need to seek shelter in the workhouse. The mentally ill, handicapt and the elderly would often end up in the workhouse, we dont know how fortunate we are.
Men picking Oakham
When in the work house, people were not allowed to vote. The Birmingham workhouse had an archway at the entrance and was known as the archway of tears.
Woman picking Oakham
There were many jobs in the workhouse, breaking stones outside, farming, sewing, laundering, and the main seemed to be oakhampicking, which consists of pulling the fibres from old ropes, which would then be sold to be mixed with Bitumen to seal boats, hence 'money in old rope'. They would have to produce between 3 -4 oz of oakham before they could eat, this must have been very tedious and must have cut their fingers to bits in the cold rooms.
Please click on the following link to read a poor souls story of how he ended up in the work house and his life http://www.workhouses.org.uk/IndoorPaupers/
There is a brilliant site whcih is well worth visiting and details of workhouse http://www.workhouses.org.uk/
Another excellent website is http://gerald-massey.org.uk/waugh/c_cotton_famine_(4).htm
Please click on the following link to read a poor souls story of how he ended up in the work house and his life http://www.workhouses.org.uk/IndoorPaupers/
There is a brilliant site whcih is well worth visiting and details of workhouse http://www.workhouses.org.uk/
Another excellent website is http://gerald-massey.org.uk/waugh/c_cotton_famine_(4).htm
Northern Humour
Below was engraved on a tombstone
Remember man, as you walk by,
As you are now, so once was I,
As I am now, so shall you be,
Remember this and follow me.
Underneath someone had written on the tombstone:
To follow you I'll not consent,
Until I know which way you went.
Remember man, as you walk by,
As you are now, so once was I,
As I am now, so shall you be,
Remember this and follow me.
Underneath someone had written on the tombstone:
To follow you I'll not consent,
Until I know which way you went.
Cat Heaven
A cat dies and goes to Heaven. God meets him at the gate and says,'you have been a good cat all of these years. Anything you desire is yours,all you have to do is ask.' The cat says,'Well, I lived all my life with a poor family on a farm and had to sleep on hardwood floors.' God says,'Say no more.' And instantly, a fluffy pillow appears.
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A few days later,6 mice are killed in a tragic accident and they go to Heaven. God meets them at the gate with the same offer that He made the cat. The mice said,'All our lives we've had to run. Cats,dogs and even women with brooms have chased us. If we could only have a pair of roller skates,we wouldn't have to run anymore.' God says,'Say no more.' And instantly, each mouse is fitted with a beautiful pair of tiny roller skates.
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About a week later,God decides to check and see how the cat is doing. The cat is sound asleep on his new pillow. God gently wakes him and asks,'How are you doing? Are you happy here?' The cat yawns and stretches and says,'Oh,I've never been happier in my life. And those Meals on Wheels you've been sending over are the best!'
Church Detail
Click on the slideshow across to view various parts of the church in more detail - there is a slide show further down of inside the bell tower and spiral tower.
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We are Survivors (For those born before 1940)
We were born before television, before panicillin, polio shots, frozen foods, xerox, plastic, contact lenses, videos and frisbees. We were born before radar, credit cards, split atoms, laser beams and ball point pens, before dishwashers, tumble dryers, electric blankets, air conditioners, drip dry clothes, and before man walked the moon. We got married first and then lived together, how quaint. We though "Fast Food" was what you ate in Lent, a Big Mac was an oversized raincoat and "crumpet" was something we had for tea. We existed before house husbands, computer dating and "sheltered accommodation" is where you waited for a bus.
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We were before day care centres, group homes and disposable nappies. We never heard of FM radio, tape decks, electric typewriters, artificial hearts, word processors, yoghurt and young men wearing earings. For us "time sharing" meant togetherness, a "chip" was piece of wood or fried potatoe, "hardware" meant nuts and bolts and "software" was not a word. Before 1940 "Made in Japan" meant junk, the term, "stud" was something that fastened a collar to a shirt, "going all the way" meant staying on a double decker to the bus depot. Pizzas, McDonalds, and instant coffee were unheard of. In our day, cigarette smoking was fashionable, grass was mown, coke was kept in the coal house, a "joint" was a piece of meat you had on Sunday and "pot" was something to cook in. "Rock music" was a grandmothers lullaby, "Eldorado" was an ice cream, a "gay" person was the life and soul of the party while aids meant nothing more than beauty treatment or help for someone in need.
We who were born before 1940 must have been a hardy bunch, but we survived
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St Bridget 15 Prayers
| St Michael the Archangle
Defend us in our hour of battle, be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil
May God rebuke him we humbly pray and do thee Prince of the Heavenly Host by the power of God cast into hell satan and all evil spirits who prowl through the world seeking the ruin of souls Amen The Lords Prayer
Our Father
who art in Heaven, Hallowed by thy name, they kingdom come, they will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us and lead us not in to temptation but deliver us from evil Amen |
St Benedetta asked the Lord how many wounds he received during his passion,
His response is as follows:
Be it known that the number of armed soldiers were 150 those who trailed me while I was bound were 23, the executioners of justice were 83, the blows received on my head were 150, those on my stomach 108, kicks on my shoulders 80. I was led bound with cords by the hair 24 times, spits in the face were 180, I was beaten on the body 6666 times, beaten on the head 110 times. I was roughly pushed and at 12 O’clock was lifted up by the hair, pricked with those and pulled by the beard 23 times, received 20 wounds on my head, thorns of marine junks 72, pricks of thorns in the head 110, mortal thorns in the forehead, 3. I was afterwards flogged and dressed as a mocked king, wounds in the body 1000. The solders who led me to the Calvary were 608, those who watched me were 3, those who mocked me were 1008, the drops of blood I lost were 28,430.
To those faithful who shall recite for 3 years each day 2 Our Fathers, 2 Gloria’s and 2 Hail Mary’s in honour of the drops of blood I lost, I will concede the following 5 graces:
1. The plenary indulgence and remittance of your sins
2. You will be free from the pains of purgatory
3. If you should die before completing the said 3 years, it will be the same as completing them
4. It will be upon your death the same as if you had shed all your blood for the Holy Faith
5. I will descend from Heaven to take your soul and that of your relatives until the fourth generation.
His response is as follows:
Be it known that the number of armed soldiers were 150 those who trailed me while I was bound were 23, the executioners of justice were 83, the blows received on my head were 150, those on my stomach 108, kicks on my shoulders 80. I was led bound with cords by the hair 24 times, spits in the face were 180, I was beaten on the body 6666 times, beaten on the head 110 times. I was roughly pushed and at 12 O’clock was lifted up by the hair, pricked with those and pulled by the beard 23 times, received 20 wounds on my head, thorns of marine junks 72, pricks of thorns in the head 110, mortal thorns in the forehead, 3. I was afterwards flogged and dressed as a mocked king, wounds in the body 1000. The solders who led me to the Calvary were 608, those who watched me were 3, those who mocked me were 1008, the drops of blood I lost were 28,430.
To those faithful who shall recite for 3 years each day 2 Our Fathers, 2 Gloria’s and 2 Hail Mary’s in honour of the drops of blood I lost, I will concede the following 5 graces:
1. The plenary indulgence and remittance of your sins
2. You will be free from the pains of purgatory
3. If you should die before completing the said 3 years, it will be the same as completing them
4. It will be upon your death the same as if you had shed all your blood for the Holy Faith
5. I will descend from Heaven to take your soul and that of your relatives until the fourth generation.
Thomas Gerrard court plea
It appears that Sir Thomas Gerrard found himself in court for paying a priest to say mass and paying his rent. How easy it is now for us to pray and worship the Lord, and yet how much did our ancestors suffer for years of persecution just to keep their faith
More persecution for the Faith below
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Cont
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PRAISE THE LORD
An elderly lady was well known for her faith and for her boldness in talking about it. She would stand on her front porch and shout “Praise the Lord”
Next door to her lived an atheist who would get so angry at her proclamations he would shout, “There aint no Lord” Hard times set in on the elderly lady, and she prayed for God to send her some assistance. She stood on her porch and shouted “PRAISE THE LORD, SEND ME SOME GROCERIES” The next morning the lady went out on her porch and noticed a large bag of groceries and shouted, “PRAISE THE LORD”. The lady started jumping up and down and the neighbour jumped from behind a bush and said “AHA, I told you there was no Lord. I brought you those groceries, God didn’t” She thought for a second then continued to jump up and down, clapping her hands, she said “PRIASE THE LORD, He not only sent groceries, but he made the devil pay for them, PRAISE THE LORD”. Donated from Parishioner (thank you) taken from a newsletter of the Holy Family Cathedral in Antigua. |  |
The Beautiful Hands of a Priest
We need them life’s early morning
We need them again at its close We feel their warm clasp of true friendship We seem, when tasting life’s woes At the alter each day we behold them And the hands of a king on his throne Are not equal to them in their greatness Their dignity stands all alone And when we are tempted and wander Down pathways of shame and of sin It’s the hand of a Priest will absolve us Not once but again and again And when we are taking life’s partner Other hands may prepare us a feast But the hands that will bless and unite us Are the beautiful hands of a Priest God bless them and keep them all holy For the Host that their fingers caress When can a poor sinner do better than To ask him to guide thee and bless When the hour of death comes upon us May our courage and strength be increased By seeing raised over us in blessing The beautiful hands of a Priest From David Birmingham (Unknown Author) | .
I was Shocked, confused, bewildered
As I entered Heaven's door, Not by the beauty of it all, Nor the lights or its decor. But it was the folks in Heaven Who made me sputter and gasp– The thieves, the liars, the sinners, The alcoholics and the trash. There stood the kid from seventh grade Who swiped my lunch money! Twice. Next to him was my old neighbor Who never said anything nice. Herb, who I always thought Was rotting away in hell, Was sitting pretty on cloud nine, Looking incredibly well. I nudged Jesus, 'What's the deal? Would love to hear Your take. How'd all these sinners get up here? God must've made a mistake. 'And why's everyone so quiet, So somber – give me a clue.' 'Hush, child,' He said, 'they're all in shock. No one thought they'd be seeing you.' JUDGE NOT. |
The below is an article from the old parish magazine detailing the building of our new church - if you want a copy please email us and we will be happy to oblige
Christ alone has bridged the gulf between earth and Heaven. By His Passion, Death, Resurrection and Ascension he has made a sure path to the Godhead for all those who believe in Him “I am he way, the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except through me” (Jn 14:6)
Heskin Hall
Heskin Hall does have priest holes but they are not accessable at present so we could not film them. The families have a very Catholic history see the plea from the court below. It was said that parliamentary troops seized the house and found a Catholic priest hiding. Rather than face the death which was set for Catholic priests at that time, the betraying priest swore allegiance to the king and offered to show his allegiance by hanging the youngest girl in front of them. This he did to the horror and heartbreak of the family.
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Think Twice
The light turned yellow, just in front of him. He did the right thing, stopping at the crosswalk, even though he could have beaten the red light by accelerating through the intersection. The tailgating woman was furious and honked her horn, screaming in frustration, as she missed her chance to get through the intersection, dropping her cell phone and makeup.
As she was still in mid-rant, she heard a tap on her window and looked up into the face of a very serious police officer. The officer ordered her to exit her car with her hands up. He took her to the police station where she was searched, fingerprinted, photographed, and placed in a holding cell. After a couple of hours, a policeman approached the cell and opened the door. She was escorted back to the booking desk where the arresting officer was waiting with her personal effects. He said, ''I'm very sorry for this mistake. You see, I pulled up behind your car while you were blowing your horn, making lewd gestures to the guy in front of you and, cussing a blue streak at him. I noticed the 'What Would Jesus Do' bumper sticker, the 'Choose Life' license plate holder, the 'Follow Me to Sunday-School' bumper sticker, and the chrome-plated Christian fish emblem on the trunk, so naturally . . . I assumed you had stolen the car.'' This article was written some time ago with the assistance of Cannon Ripley a very much loved former priest about St Edmund the Lourdes of Lancashire
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The Power of St. Faustina’s Intercession by Val Conlon
The Power of St. Faustina’s Intercession A true miracle of Divine Mercy Devotion “You will be the secretary of my Mercy in this life and the next”. Before the age of 15, Maureen Digan enjoyed a normal healthy life as an active teenager. Then suddenly, she was struck down with a slowly progressive but terminal disease called Lymphedema. It is a very serious disease which causes massive swelling in one or both of the arms or legs. This painful disease is caused by a blockage which prevents fluid from draining. As the fluid builds up in the legs or arms, the swelling continues. There is no cure but it can be controlled with diligent care. Unfortunately, it does not respond to medication and does not go into remission. During the next ten years, Maureen had about fifty operations and had lengthy confinements in hospital for up to a year at a time. Friends and relations suggested she should pray and put her trust in God. But Maureen could not understand why God had allowed her to get this disease in the first place and had lost her faith completely. Eventually the doctors decided that due to her deteriorating condition, it was necessary to amputate her leg. They set a date for this serious operation. But, one evening while Maureen was in hospital, her husband Bob went to see a new film called “Divine Mercy - No Escape”. After seeing this film on the life of St. Faustina, he became convinced of the healing power of the intercession of St. Faustina. Bob persuaded Maureen and the doctors that she should go with him to the tomb of St. Faustina in Poland. They arrived in Poland on 23rd March 1981 and Maureen went to confession for the first time since she was a young girl. At the tomb, now called the Shrine of St. Faustina, Maureen remembers saying in her own inimitable style, “O.K. Faustina I came a long way, now do something”. In her heart she heard St. Faustina say “If you ask for my help, I will give it to you”. Maureen thought she was having a nervous breakdown. All of a sudden, the pain seemed to drain out of her body and her swollen leg which was due to be amputated shortly, went back to its normal size. When she returned to the U.S.A., she was examined by five independent doctors who came to the conclusion that she was completely healed. They had no medical explanation for the sudden healing of this incurable disease. The accumulated evidence for this miracle was examined in consultation by five doctors appointed by the Sacred Congregation for the Causes of Saints. Having passed this test, it was examined by a team of theologians, and finally by a team of cardinals and bishops. The cure was accepted by all as a miracle caused by St. Faustina’s intercession to Divine Mercy. St. Faustina was beatified on 18th April 1993 and canonised in April 2000 by Pope John Paul II. | Prayer to Our Lady
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you, blessed art thou amoung women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb Jesus. Holy Mary mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death Amen
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The Sixtieth Anniversary of the War Ending
I remember the trauma of the bombing especially when a bomb damaged the house next to ours. The family were in the shelter as this was the custom for the families every night in Liverpool. King George and the Queen mother toured the country looking at all the damage from the bombing. All our family were surprised to see the King and Queen come into our back garden to look at the damage to the house next to ours, my mother invited the Queen into our kitchen for a cup of tea everyone was astonished when they came in, sat down and had a cup of tea with my mother.
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After another night of heavy bombing the noise kept everyone awake all night we had very little sleep but still went to school. It seemed that every street had some damaged. At 5 o’clock we all had tea, for this was a special occasion, my Dad was home on leave from RAF. After tea my mother decided to hang the washing out, seeing a bright object in the garden she brought it in to show us. My Dad looked at it and shouted that it was a bomb and he put it in a bucket of water. Then an army disposal expert came and defused it and gave my mother the casing, which she put above the fire placed. When someone asked what it was we all use to say it was a small bomb which gave us all a big shock.
Thanks Mr D Kelly
Thanks Mr D Kelly
Memories
VE day brought back memories for Doug and myself, we often wonder how we all got out of our warm bed and out in the cold air-raid shelter. When I think back to how my mum and dad got us all in the air aid shelter (eight of us) during the raids she would be out of the shelter with our next door neighbour calling the Germans all the names going. When they would hear the planes coming over, into the shelter they would dive, and my mother would start saying the rosary with us. Prayers worked for all of us because we survived the war.
I remember four of us being evacuated to Much Wenlock, they were very nice to us, my mum and dad came to visit us. The second time they came to see us, thee of us went home, but my bother stayed a while longer. I often think of how good they were the people who took all the evacuees into their homes when we were strangers to them, but they helped us. God bless them all.
Mrs V Kelly
Bamfurlong Hall
When John Assheton (Ashton) was a boy his father died and bequeathed him several lands and tenements in Abram. These included Bamfurlong Hall, a very valuable building surrounded by a moat. John was a minor and his inheritance was put under the care of Rodger Anderton of Bickershaw Hall until he reached the age of 21.
When he ws 14, he went with a friend John Shakerley to view his property at Bamfurlong. He says whilst he was there, three servants of St Thomas Gerrard of Wyndleshae assembled in the most notous manner, and with spiteful words commanded them in the name of Sir Thomas to go away from the premises, stating that Richard Asheton was the true holder of the property. John fled in fear and took refuse inside the house. His attackers asked their master for help and 12 more of his sevents were sent to Bamfurlong. John hid himself in secret places in the house during the night afraid to be seen and escaped the house later. John took his case to the Duchy Court of Lancaster. His attackers denied any wrong doing of any kind. The house was medieval and had an oval moat surrounded. The most beautiful feature was the jettied upper storey. The possession of the hall eventually came to the Gerrards of Ince. See the plea from John to the court.
With thanks from John @ Wigan Man click to view website: www.wiganman.co.uk/index.html
When he ws 14, he went with a friend John Shakerley to view his property at Bamfurlong. He says whilst he was there, three servants of St Thomas Gerrard of Wyndleshae assembled in the most notous manner, and with spiteful words commanded them in the name of Sir Thomas to go away from the premises, stating that Richard Asheton was the true holder of the property. John fled in fear and took refuse inside the house. His attackers asked their master for help and 12 more of his sevents were sent to Bamfurlong. John hid himself in secret places in the house during the night afraid to be seen and escaped the house later. John took his case to the Duchy Court of Lancaster. His attackers denied any wrong doing of any kind. The house was medieval and had an oval moat surrounded. The most beautiful feature was the jettied upper storey. The possession of the hall eventually came to the Gerrards of Ince. See the plea from John to the court.
With thanks from John @ Wigan Man click to view website: www.wiganman.co.uk/index.html
Ever happened to you
A woman was trying hard to get the tomatoe sause out of the bottle. During her struggle the phone rang so she asked her 4-year-old daughter to answer the phone. "Sorry mummy can't come to the phone right now, she's hitting the bottle."
Slide show of the interior of the Church
More pictures of inside the church including the Turrett Tower and Bell Tower.
Click on each of the pictures below to view larger and clearer, then either click the arrow or move the cursor to the right of the picture and click next to view as slide show
A little girl had just finished her first week of school. I'm just wasting my time Daddy ," she said. "I can't read, I can't write and they won't let me talk"
More pictures of the Altar and behind the altar showing St Edmunds chapel
What do you want us to photograph or video, drop us an email and we will be happy to help.
Bible Stories for Adults - We will be bringing better bible stories soon, just editing them please be patient
The above survey will be used to identify how to improve your website, the information will be collected regulary and at the end of the month the highest tick item will receive attention, ie more news or pictures. Please check the notice board for the new additions and results of the survey - many thanks
The words of Our Lord to Sister Josefa Menedez
How does it feel in winter when you draw the curtains at 4.30 and don’t see another soul until the next day sometimes 16 hours of loneliness, how lonely must Our Lord be when he is left for days without anyone
paying him attention or a visit, locked in the tabernacle. The Lords words below illustrate the sadness and loneliness in our dear Lords heart. In all the visits Jesus pays to Sister Menedez he talks about the Mass, Holy Communion or the Blessed Sacrament. Through the words of Jesus, it is clear that He wants us to keep Him company whilst in the tabernacle and it is clear how hurt and lonely He feels at mans indifference, especially in
all He and His family have gone through to save us. It is clear that the Lord wants to revive the veneration of the Blessed Sacrament and when we recall what our Lady said at Fatima we still seem to be slipping more and more away from the truth and absorbed in our busy lives, the Holy Family were concerned in our lack of faith so many years ago, how much more lost are we becoming.
Josefa Menedez was born in Madrid, Spain 4th February 1890. She entered the Society of the Sacred Heart on her 30th birthday, in the convent in Poitiers, (les Feuillants). She died in France in 1923 at the age of 33. Whilst a postulant in 1920, she was visibly tormented by the devil, and was tempted to leave the convent. Jesus drew her to Him and she had visions of His sacred heart and how wounded He is by our indifference.
On 13th April 1922 Sr Menedez was in the chapel
when she saw a vision, she describes as follows:
“I saw a personage clothed like Our Lord, rather taller, very beautiful and with a wonderful expression of peace on his face, which was most attractive. His vesture was of dark reddish purple. He held in his hand the Crown of Thorns, just like the one Our Lord used to bring me long ago.” “ I am the Disciple of the Lord, he said John the Evangelist, and I bring you one of the Masters most precious jewels.” “He gave me the crown and placed it on my head.” St Menedez was startled but felt so peaceful, she started to tell of the torments she was enduring and John told her not to worry as her soul was protected by the Lord, and that the Lord wanted her to know of the feelings that overwhelmed His heart. “Love was about to part Him from His disciples, after it had baptised Him in a baptism of blood, but love urged Him to remain and it was this love that made Him conceive the idea of the Blessed Sacrament” John explained to Sr Menedez that “The Lords heart was thrilled at the moment, then approaching,
when He would go to the Father, but crushed with sorrow at the at the sight of one of the Twelve, one especially chosen, who was to deliver Him up to death, and at the knowledge that for the first time His blood was to prove useless to save a soul”. The Lord wears himself out for us, and is crushed each day at our sullenness to love and trust Him. On 25th February Jesus appeared to Sr Menedez and told her the reason he washed the apostles feet before His last supper. “In the first place I would teach souls how pure they must be to receive Me in Holy Communion. I also wished to remind those who would have the misfortune to sin that they can always recover their innocence through the Sacrament of Penance. I washed the apostles feet with My own hands so that those who have consecrated themselves to apostolic work may follow My example, and treat sinners with humility and gentleness, as also all others that are entrusted to their care. I girded Myself with a white linen cloth to remind then that apostles need to be girded with abnegation and mortification, if they hope to exert any real influence on souls. I wished also to teach them that mutual charity which is ever ready to excuse the faults of others, to conceal them and extenuate them, and never to reveal them.
Lastly, the water poured on the feet of My apostles denotes the zeal, which burned in My Heart for the salvation of the world.
when He would go to the Father, but crushed with sorrow at the at the sight of one of the Twelve, one especially chosen, who was to deliver Him up to death, and at the knowledge that for the first time His blood was to prove useless to save a soul”. The Lord wears himself out for us, and is crushed each day at our sullenness to love and trust Him. On 25th February Jesus appeared to Sr Menedez and told her the reason he washed the apostles feet before His last supper. “In the first place I would teach souls how pure they must be to receive Me in Holy Communion. I also wished to remind those who would have the misfortune to sin that they can always recover their innocence through the Sacrament of Penance. I washed the apostles feet with My own hands so that those who have consecrated themselves to apostolic work may follow My example, and treat sinners with humility and gentleness, as also all others that are entrusted to their care. I girded Myself with a white linen cloth to remind then that apostles need to be girded with abnegation and mortification, if they hope to exert any real influence on souls. I wished also to teach them that mutual charity which is ever ready to excuse the faults of others, to conceal them and extenuate them, and never to reveal them.
Lastly, the water poured on the feet of My apostles denotes the zeal, which burned in My Heart for the salvation of the world.
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The hour of redemption was at hand, My Heart could no longer restrain its love for mankind nor bear the thought of leaving them orphans, so to prove My tender love for them and in order to remain always with
them till time has ceased to be, I resolved to become their food, their support, their life, their all. Could I but make known to all souls the loving sentiments with which My Heart overflowed at My Last Supper, when I instituted the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist.” The Lord continued, “My glance ranged across the ages, and I saw the multitudes who would receive My Body and Blood and all the good It would effect. How many who had been enfeebled by sin and the violence of passion would recover and return by partaking of this Bread of the strong. Who can describe the overwhelming emotion that filled My Soul but alas also sorrow.” He told Sr Josefa that His wellspring of His blood was not exhausted.
Our Lord told Sr Josefa “The Holy Eucharist is the invention of love, but how few souls correspond to that love which spends and
consumes itself for them” Sr Josefa often got the idea that she did not work hard enough and that she was useless and got pre occupied with this notion, this was the old torment, which stopped her from doing the work of the Lord. Our Lord said He wanted souls to know of his poignant sorrows, which filled His Heart at the last supper. If it was bliss for Me to think of all those to whom I should be bother Companion and Heavenly Food, of all who would surround Me to the End of Time with adoration, reparation and love, this in no wise diminished My grief at the many who would leave Me deserted in My tabernacle and who would not even believe in my real presence. “ “ Into how many hearts defiled by sin would I not have to enter, and how often this profanation of My Body and Blood would serve for their ultimate condemnation.” “Sacrileges and outrages, and all the nameless abominations to be omitted against Me, passed before My eyes, the long lonely hours of the day and of the night in which I
would remain alone on the alters, and the multitudes who would not heed the appeals of My Heart.” “It is love for souls that keeps Me a prisoner in the Blessed Sacrament. I stay there that all may come and find the comfort they need in the tenderness of Hearts, the best of Fathers, the most faithful of Friends, who will never abandon them.”
them till time has ceased to be, I resolved to become their food, their support, their life, their all. Could I but make known to all souls the loving sentiments with which My Heart overflowed at My Last Supper, when I instituted the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist.” The Lord continued, “My glance ranged across the ages, and I saw the multitudes who would receive My Body and Blood and all the good It would effect. How many who had been enfeebled by sin and the violence of passion would recover and return by partaking of this Bread of the strong. Who can describe the overwhelming emotion that filled My Soul but alas also sorrow.” He told Sr Josefa that His wellspring of His blood was not exhausted.
Our Lord told Sr Josefa “The Holy Eucharist is the invention of love, but how few souls correspond to that love which spends and
consumes itself for them” Sr Josefa often got the idea that she did not work hard enough and that she was useless and got pre occupied with this notion, this was the old torment, which stopped her from doing the work of the Lord. Our Lord said He wanted souls to know of his poignant sorrows, which filled His Heart at the last supper. If it was bliss for Me to think of all those to whom I should be bother Companion and Heavenly Food, of all who would surround Me to the End of Time with adoration, reparation and love, this in no wise diminished My grief at the many who would leave Me deserted in My tabernacle and who would not even believe in my real presence. “ “ Into how many hearts defiled by sin would I not have to enter, and how often this profanation of My Body and Blood would serve for their ultimate condemnation.” “Sacrileges and outrages, and all the nameless abominations to be omitted against Me, passed before My eyes, the long lonely hours of the day and of the night in which I
would remain alone on the alters, and the multitudes who would not heed the appeals of My Heart.” “It is love for souls that keeps Me a prisoner in the Blessed Sacrament. I stay there that all may come and find the comfort they need in the tenderness of Hearts, the best of Fathers, the most faithful of Friends, who will never abandon them.”
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“I live in the midst of sinners that I may be their life, their physician, and the remedy of the diseases bred by corrupt nature. In return they forsake, insult and despise Me” “Poor pitiable sinners do not turn away from Me, day and night I am on the watch for you in the tabernacle. I will not reproach you, I will not cast
your sins in your face, but I will wash them in My Blood and in My Wounds. No need to be afraid, come to Me, If you but knew how dearly I love you.” “And you dear souls, why this coldness and indifference on your part. Do I not know that family cares, household concerns, and the requirements of your position in life, make a continual calls upon you. But cannot you spare a few minutes in which to come and prove your affection and ratitude. Do not let yourselves to become involved in useless and incessant cares, but spare a few moments to visit and receive this Prisoner of Love”
“Were you weak of ill in body surly you would take time to go and see a doctor who would cure you”, Jesus said. “Come then to One who is able to give both strength and health to your soul, and bestow the alms of love on this Divine Prisoner Who watches for you, calls for you and longs to see you at His side”. Jesus spoke of his consecrated souls, “When about to institute the Holy Eucharist, I saw the privileged who would be nourished by My Body and Blood, some would find there the remedy for their short-comings, others consuming fire for their imperfections, likewise saw them gathered round Me as in a garden each separately rejoicing Me with her flowers and their scent. As a vivifying sun My sacred Body gave them life, and warmed their colds hearts. To some I went for comfort, to others for refuge, to others again for rest. Would that all these cherished souls knew how easily they can console Me, harbour Me, or give rest to Me their God.” “It is this infinity loving God who after freeing you for the slavery of sin has given you the incomparable grace of your vocation and has mysteriously attracted you onto enclosed garden of His elight.
This God who is your Saviour ha made Himself your Bridegroom. “He Himself feeds you with His immaculate Flesh and slakes your thirst with His Blood. If you are sick, He will by your physician, come to Him, He will cure you. If you are old, come to Him, He will warm you. In Him you will find rest and happiness, so do not wander away from Him, for He is life and when e asked you to comfort Him, do not sadden Him by your refusal” the Lord continued, “Alas what sorrow it is to see so many who have been endowed with My holiest graces become a cause of pain to My Sacred Heart. Am I not always the same, have I hanged, no My love un alterable and will endure to the end of time with the same tenderness and predilection.” “If I ask for things that cost, know that at the same time I will give you all the grace and strength you need to conquer yourself”.
your sins in your face, but I will wash them in My Blood and in My Wounds. No need to be afraid, come to Me, If you but knew how dearly I love you.” “And you dear souls, why this coldness and indifference on your part. Do I not know that family cares, household concerns, and the requirements of your position in life, make a continual calls upon you. But cannot you spare a few minutes in which to come and prove your affection and ratitude. Do not let yourselves to become involved in useless and incessant cares, but spare a few moments to visit and receive this Prisoner of Love”
“Were you weak of ill in body surly you would take time to go and see a doctor who would cure you”, Jesus said. “Come then to One who is able to give both strength and health to your soul, and bestow the alms of love on this Divine Prisoner Who watches for you, calls for you and longs to see you at His side”. Jesus spoke of his consecrated souls, “When about to institute the Holy Eucharist, I saw the privileged who would be nourished by My Body and Blood, some would find there the remedy for their short-comings, others consuming fire for their imperfections, likewise saw them gathered round Me as in a garden each separately rejoicing Me with her flowers and their scent. As a vivifying sun My sacred Body gave them life, and warmed their colds hearts. To some I went for comfort, to others for refuge, to others again for rest. Would that all these cherished souls knew how easily they can console Me, harbour Me, or give rest to Me their God.” “It is this infinity loving God who after freeing you for the slavery of sin has given you the incomparable grace of your vocation and has mysteriously attracted you onto enclosed garden of His elight.
This God who is your Saviour ha made Himself your Bridegroom. “He Himself feeds you with His immaculate Flesh and slakes your thirst with His Blood. If you are sick, He will by your physician, come to Him, He will cure you. If you are old, come to Him, He will warm you. In Him you will find rest and happiness, so do not wander away from Him, for He is life and when e asked you to comfort Him, do not sadden Him by your refusal” the Lord continued, “Alas what sorrow it is to see so many who have been endowed with My holiest graces become a cause of pain to My Sacred Heart. Am I not always the same, have I hanged, no My love un alterable and will endure to the end of time with the same tenderness and predilection.” “If I ask for things that cost, know that at the same time I will give you all the grace and strength you need to conquer yourself”.
.
The Lord explained that if anyone asked for help to make their soul grow then He will be only too happy to assist and sometimes he may ask them to give up certain things, or self denial, or do some thing, these
will all prove to fertilise the soil of the soul and enrich the ground to enable fruit to flourish in their soul.
Jesus explained that a person’s self-conquest will obtain light for a sinner, and ready patience under provocation will heal the wounds he inflicted upon the Lord, will repair for his offence and expiate his fault. Take courage, go forward steadily and let Me train you”. “My heart burns with desire to become food for just such should. If I have taken up My abode among men, it is not merely to live among the perfect, but to uphold the weak, and sustain the lowly. I will make them grow and become strong”. “But there are among these chosen who will inflect sorrow on Me. For will they all persevere. Such is the cry of grief that breaks from My heart I want souls to hear it.
The next visit the Lord explained that he wanted to share how much His heart endured pain due to the fire that burned within.
When the Lord reflects on all the souls that feed on him the pain was unbearable inflicted by priests that wound Him in the Sacrament. “There are those who would grow cold, gradually yield to routine, and worse than routine, to weariness and lassitude and little by little to tepidity. Still I wait all night and watch in the tabernacle for that soul, fervently hoping that she will come
and receive Me, that she will converse with |Me with all the trust of a bride, telling Me of her sorrows, her temptations, her sufferings, asking My advice and begging for graces she needs for herself or others. Perhaps she has dependent on her or in her
family souls that are in danger and far from Me. Come I say to her let us discuss everything with perfect freedom, be concerned about sinners, offer yourself to make reparation, Promise Me that at least today you will not leave Me alone then see if My Heart is not asking something more of you to comfort It. This is what I yearn for when she receives me in Holy Communion but she barely says a word to Me, she is distracted, tired or put out her whole mind is absorbed by her occupations, her family cares, her acquaintances or maybe anxiety for her health, she does not know what to say to Me she is indifferent, bored wishes it were time to go, Is it thus that you receive Me a soul whom I have chosen and for whom I have watched with all the impatience of love through the live long night”. “ I have longed for her coming and share her anxieties and have prepared fresh graces for her but she does not want them. She asked nothing from me either not strength or advice, she just complains to herself without even dressing Me. She has simply come out of routine. Alas that soul does not posess the delicate love I had hoped to find in her. And priests, who can express all I expect from My priests they are invested with My own power that they may forgive sin. I Myself am obedient to their word when they summon Me from Heaven to earth, I am totally surrendered into their hands they may confine Me to the
tabernacle or give Me to the faithful in Holy Communion, they are My almoners. To each I have entrusted souls that by their preaching, their direction and above all their example they may guide them in the path of virtue”.
“What response do they make, do they fulfil Loves mission. Will this minister at the alter, confide the souls of his charge to Me
today. Will he make reparation to Me today for the offences I receive, the secret of which has been entrusted to him. Will he entreat of Me the strength he needs to carry out his holiness his sacred ministry zeal to work for the salvation of souls, courage in self sacrifice more today than yesterday. Will he give me the love I expect and will I be able to rely entirely on him as on My dear and well beloved disciple. O what cruel sorrow for My Heart when I am forced to say the world wounds Me in My hands and
My feet and it sullies My countenance. My chosen souls and My consecrate religious, My priests rend and break My Heart. How may priest after giving back grace to many souls are themselves in a state of sin. How many say Mass thus, receive Me thus, live
and die thus.”
will all prove to fertilise the soil of the soul and enrich the ground to enable fruit to flourish in their soul.
Jesus explained that a person’s self-conquest will obtain light for a sinner, and ready patience under provocation will heal the wounds he inflicted upon the Lord, will repair for his offence and expiate his fault. Take courage, go forward steadily and let Me train you”. “My heart burns with desire to become food for just such should. If I have taken up My abode among men, it is not merely to live among the perfect, but to uphold the weak, and sustain the lowly. I will make them grow and become strong”. “But there are among these chosen who will inflect sorrow on Me. For will they all persevere. Such is the cry of grief that breaks from My heart I want souls to hear it.
The next visit the Lord explained that he wanted to share how much His heart endured pain due to the fire that burned within.
When the Lord reflects on all the souls that feed on him the pain was unbearable inflicted by priests that wound Him in the Sacrament. “There are those who would grow cold, gradually yield to routine, and worse than routine, to weariness and lassitude and little by little to tepidity. Still I wait all night and watch in the tabernacle for that soul, fervently hoping that she will come
and receive Me, that she will converse with |Me with all the trust of a bride, telling Me of her sorrows, her temptations, her sufferings, asking My advice and begging for graces she needs for herself or others. Perhaps she has dependent on her or in her
family souls that are in danger and far from Me. Come I say to her let us discuss everything with perfect freedom, be concerned about sinners, offer yourself to make reparation, Promise Me that at least today you will not leave Me alone then see if My Heart is not asking something more of you to comfort It. This is what I yearn for when she receives me in Holy Communion but she barely says a word to Me, she is distracted, tired or put out her whole mind is absorbed by her occupations, her family cares, her acquaintances or maybe anxiety for her health, she does not know what to say to Me she is indifferent, bored wishes it were time to go, Is it thus that you receive Me a soul whom I have chosen and for whom I have watched with all the impatience of love through the live long night”. “ I have longed for her coming and share her anxieties and have prepared fresh graces for her but she does not want them. She asked nothing from me either not strength or advice, she just complains to herself without even dressing Me. She has simply come out of routine. Alas that soul does not posess the delicate love I had hoped to find in her. And priests, who can express all I expect from My priests they are invested with My own power that they may forgive sin. I Myself am obedient to their word when they summon Me from Heaven to earth, I am totally surrendered into their hands they may confine Me to the
tabernacle or give Me to the faithful in Holy Communion, they are My almoners. To each I have entrusted souls that by their preaching, their direction and above all their example they may guide them in the path of virtue”.
“What response do they make, do they fulfil Loves mission. Will this minister at the alter, confide the souls of his charge to Me
today. Will he make reparation to Me today for the offences I receive, the secret of which has been entrusted to him. Will he entreat of Me the strength he needs to carry out his holiness his sacred ministry zeal to work for the salvation of souls, courage in self sacrifice more today than yesterday. Will he give me the love I expect and will I be able to rely entirely on him as on My dear and well beloved disciple. O what cruel sorrow for My Heart when I am forced to say the world wounds Me in My hands and
My feet and it sullies My countenance. My chosen souls and My consecrate religious, My priests rend and break My Heart. How may priest after giving back grace to many souls are themselves in a state of sin. How many say Mass thus, receive Me thus, live
and die thus.”
.
“Now you know what anguish oppressed M at the last supper when I saw in the midst of the Twelve the first unfaithful apostle and after him so many more who would follow him in the course of the ages. The Blessed Sacrament is the invention of love, it is life and fortitude for souls, a remedy for every fault, and viaticum for the last passage from time to eternity. In it sinners recover life for their souls, tepid souls true warmth, fervent souls, tranquillity and the satisfaction of every longing, saintly souls, wings to fly towards perfection pure souls sweet honey and rarest sustenance. Consecrated souls find in it a dwelling, their love and their life. In it they will seek and find the perfect exemplar of those sacred and hallowed bonds that unite them
inseparably to their heavenly Bridegroom. Indeed Oh consecrated souls, you will find a perfect symbol of your vow of Poverty in the small round light and smooth Host for so must the soul that professes poverty be, no angles that is to say, no petty natural affections, either for things used not for her employments, nor for family or country, but she must every be ready to leave, or give up or change. Her heart must be free with no attachments whatever.” Jesus tells Josefa that a religious soul must not own anything unless given permission and must be ready and free to give up anything at the first sign as not to be tied down by earthy worries and possessions.
Jesus wanted all to know that in the small white Host we will find a perfect symbol of their vow chastity. “For under the species of Bread and Wine the real presence of God lies concealed. Under this veil, I am there, whole and entire, Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity”. Jesus continues to explain “ It is thus that one consecrated to Jesus Christ by the vow of virginity must be hidden under the veil of modesty and simplicity, so that under the appearance of her humanity, a purity like that of the angels may be concealed.” Jesus added, “And understand well, you who form the court of Immaculate Lamb, that the glory you give Me surpasses incomparably that of the angelic spirits, for they have never experience the frailties of human nature, and have neither to struggle nor to conquer in order to remain pure”.
“You thus acquire a relationship with My Mother who being a mortal creature was nevertheless of spotless purity subject to all human miseries, yet at every instant of her life absolutely immaculate. She has glorified Me more than all the celestial sprits and God Himself drawn by her purity took flesh of her and dwelt in His creature.” Jesus tells the religious that hidden in the Holy
Eucharist is a vow of obedience. “The species of bread are the bonds that chain Me and the veil that covers Me. IN this manner, the vow of obedience is the chain that binds a religious soul and the veil under which she must disappear so that she no longer has either will, judgement, chose or liberty except according to the good pleasure of God as manifested to her by her Superiors”.
Jesus says, “Look at My Wounds, Has any one else
suffered so much to prove His love”
Jesus continued, “Contemplate Me in the prison where I spent the greater part of the night. The soldiers came and adding words to injuries, insulted Me, mocked Me, outraged Me, and gave Me blows to My face and on My whole body. Tired of their sport at length they left Me bound and alone in the dark and noisome place, where seated on a stone, My aching body was cramped with
cold”. “Compare the prison with the Tabernacle, and especially with the hearts that receive Me, in the prison I spent only part of one night, but in the Tabernacle, how many days and nights” Jesus continued his pain, “In the prison I was insulted and ill treated by solders who ere My enemies, in the Tabernacle most often it is they who all Me their Father who treat Me thus, but how unlike that of children is the treatment”. “In the prison I endured cold, sleeplessness, hunger and thirst, pain, shame, solitude and desertion. And there passed before My Minds eye all the Tabernacles where in the course of ages I should lack the shelter of love the icy cold hearts that would be as hard and unfeeling as the stones of the prison floor where to My numbed and wounded
body.” “How often should I wait for this or that other should to visit Me in the Blessed Sacrament and receive Me into his heart, how many nights would I spend longing for his coming but he would let business or carelessness or anxiety for his health get the better of him and would not come.”
“How often should I hunger for souls, for this fidelity, generosity, would they satisfy that eager hunger by a little victory over self
or by a slight mortification. Would they comfort Me in My sorrow by their tenderness and compassion. In some hard moment would they endure the pain, neglect, scorn, opposition, grief of soul or family, would they come to Me and say This I offer Thee to console Thy sadness to keep Thee company in Thy solitude. Oh if only they would thus unite themselves to Me what peace would they face difficulties how much fortitude they would win and how they would gladden My Heart”. Jesus continued to tell of his torment, “In the prison what shame I felt a the obscene words of those around Me, and My distress was in creased by the thought that like words would one day fall from lips I love. When blows and buffers were rained upon Me by the filthy hands of the soldiery, it recalled to My mind how often those would receive Me into hearts fouled by unrepeated sin would shower reiterated
blows on Me by habitual and willed sin”
inseparably to their heavenly Bridegroom. Indeed Oh consecrated souls, you will find a perfect symbol of your vow of Poverty in the small round light and smooth Host for so must the soul that professes poverty be, no angles that is to say, no petty natural affections, either for things used not for her employments, nor for family or country, but she must every be ready to leave, or give up or change. Her heart must be free with no attachments whatever.” Jesus tells Josefa that a religious soul must not own anything unless given permission and must be ready and free to give up anything at the first sign as not to be tied down by earthy worries and possessions.
Jesus wanted all to know that in the small white Host we will find a perfect symbol of their vow chastity. “For under the species of Bread and Wine the real presence of God lies concealed. Under this veil, I am there, whole and entire, Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity”. Jesus continues to explain “ It is thus that one consecrated to Jesus Christ by the vow of virginity must be hidden under the veil of modesty and simplicity, so that under the appearance of her humanity, a purity like that of the angels may be concealed.” Jesus added, “And understand well, you who form the court of Immaculate Lamb, that the glory you give Me surpasses incomparably that of the angelic spirits, for they have never experience the frailties of human nature, and have neither to struggle nor to conquer in order to remain pure”.
“You thus acquire a relationship with My Mother who being a mortal creature was nevertheless of spotless purity subject to all human miseries, yet at every instant of her life absolutely immaculate. She has glorified Me more than all the celestial sprits and God Himself drawn by her purity took flesh of her and dwelt in His creature.” Jesus tells the religious that hidden in the Holy
Eucharist is a vow of obedience. “The species of bread are the bonds that chain Me and the veil that covers Me. IN this manner, the vow of obedience is the chain that binds a religious soul and the veil under which she must disappear so that she no longer has either will, judgement, chose or liberty except according to the good pleasure of God as manifested to her by her Superiors”.
Jesus says, “Look at My Wounds, Has any one else
suffered so much to prove His love”
Jesus continued, “Contemplate Me in the prison where I spent the greater part of the night. The soldiers came and adding words to injuries, insulted Me, mocked Me, outraged Me, and gave Me blows to My face and on My whole body. Tired of their sport at length they left Me bound and alone in the dark and noisome place, where seated on a stone, My aching body was cramped with
cold”. “Compare the prison with the Tabernacle, and especially with the hearts that receive Me, in the prison I spent only part of one night, but in the Tabernacle, how many days and nights” Jesus continued his pain, “In the prison I was insulted and ill treated by solders who ere My enemies, in the Tabernacle most often it is they who all Me their Father who treat Me thus, but how unlike that of children is the treatment”. “In the prison I endured cold, sleeplessness, hunger and thirst, pain, shame, solitude and desertion. And there passed before My Minds eye all the Tabernacles where in the course of ages I should lack the shelter of love the icy cold hearts that would be as hard and unfeeling as the stones of the prison floor where to My numbed and wounded
body.” “How often should I wait for this or that other should to visit Me in the Blessed Sacrament and receive Me into his heart, how many nights would I spend longing for his coming but he would let business or carelessness or anxiety for his health get the better of him and would not come.”
“How often should I hunger for souls, for this fidelity, generosity, would they satisfy that eager hunger by a little victory over self
or by a slight mortification. Would they comfort Me in My sorrow by their tenderness and compassion. In some hard moment would they endure the pain, neglect, scorn, opposition, grief of soul or family, would they come to Me and say This I offer Thee to console Thy sadness to keep Thee company in Thy solitude. Oh if only they would thus unite themselves to Me what peace would they face difficulties how much fortitude they would win and how they would gladden My Heart”. Jesus continued to tell of his torment, “In the prison what shame I felt a the obscene words of those around Me, and My distress was in creased by the thought that like words would one day fall from lips I love. When blows and buffers were rained upon Me by the filthy hands of the soldiery, it recalled to My mind how often those would receive Me into hearts fouled by unrepeated sin would shower reiterated
blows on Me by habitual and willed sin”
.
“In the prison they pushed Me and let Me fall to the ground bound and helpless, so many were present to My mind who would prefer a moments satisfaction to Me would load Me with chains by their ingratitude, would push Me back and again cause Me to fall, by leaving Me alone.” “Oh you consecrated to Me, draw near to the Bridegroom of your souls in His prison. Gaze steadfastly upon Him during that night of pain and see that sorrow contained in the loneliness of countless Tabernacles and the coldness of many hearts” “Comfort Me in My sorrow by keeping Me faithful company and wiping away My shame by your purity and uprightness of intention. If you wish Me to take My rest in you, prepare for My coming by acts of self denial, master your imagination and calm the tumult of your passions, then in the stillness of your should you will hear My voice speaking gently within you, today you are my repose but for all eternity I shall be your rest, tenderly and with love your have harboured Me in the prison of your heart, I shall be your reward exceeding great and you will never regret any sacrifice you have made for Me during your life”. Jesus tells Josefa, “Love humbles itself, love surrenders itself” On Holy Thursday, Our Lord tells Josefa, “today is my My great day, the day of love, its feast day.” “Today is the day which I gave Myself to souls, that I may be for them just what they
wish, if they will look on Me as their Father, I shall be a Father to them if they desire me as their Beloved, I shall be their Beloved, if they need strength, I will be their strength, and if they long to console Me, I will let them console Me, all I want is to give Myself to them, and to fill them with graces prepared for them, I cannot withhold them any longer”
Jesus explains, “love humbles itself before its own and in so doing raised them to the highest dignity. Love surrenders itself I totality it gives in profusion and without reserve. With enthusiasm, with vehemence it is sacrificed it is immolated, it is given for those it loves, The Holy Eucharist is love to the extreme folly” Josefa explained that it looked as if the Lord was unable to restrain the burning effusions of His Heart then His voice changed and He spoke with gravity saying “This love will lead me to my
death” The Lord then turned and told Josefa that she will accompany Him to Calvary tomorrow. Jesus raised his eyes to Heaven, and said, “May men adore the Father, May they love the Son, may they let themselves be possessed by the Holy Spirit and may the Blessed Trinity abide in them”. Jesus said to Josefa,“Oh if you could only see the beauty of a soul in grace, but this is hidden to moral eyes, Josefa. Look rather with eyes of faith, and realizing the value of souls, consecrate yourself to giving this glory to the Blessed Trinity by gaining many souls in which the Triune God may find a dwelling”. Jesus continued, “every soul can be instrumental in this sublime work nothing great is required, the smallest acts suffice, a step taken, a straw picked up a glance restrained, a service rendered a cordial smile all these offered to Love are in reality of great profit to souls and draw down floods of grace o them. No need to remind you of the fruits of prayer of sacrifice, of any act offered to expiate the sins of mankind, to obtain for them the grace of purification that they too may become fitting sanctuaries for the indwelling of the Blessed Trinity”. “And My longing is to set hearts on fire, to set the whole world on fire” Jesus said to Josefa on 12th June 1923.
The Lord told Josefa that He wanted her to relay all this words to the Bishop, which filled her with fear. Jesus explained that He is watching over her and that it is for souls and she must suffer, why did He not suffer to save souls. Jesus explained that the world must know Him, He explained,“they must love Me more, children ought to make their father known, You are my well loved daughter, specially chosen, that thorough you I may be revealed and that My Heart may be glorified. You need not fear, for I am strong and will make you strong, I am love and will sustain you, I will not abandon you”. Jesus told Josefa what to say to the Bishop thus, “I am Love, My Heart can no longer contain its devouring flames, and I love souls so dearly that I have
sacrificed my life for them”.
The Lord continued, “It is this love that keeps Me a prisoner in the Tabernacle. For twenty centuries I have dwelt there, night and day, veiled under the species of Bread and concealed in the small white Host bearing through love, neglect, solitude, contempt, blasphemies outrages, sacrileges. For love of souls, I instituted the Sacrament of Penance that I might forgive them, not once or twice, but as often as they need to recover grace. There I wait for them longing to wash away their sins, not in water but in My Blood. How often in the courses of ages have I, in one way or another, made it known My love for men, I have shown them how ardently I desire their salvation, I have revealed My \heart to them. This devotion has been a light cast over the whole earth, and today is a powerful means of gaining souls. And so of extending My kingdom”.
wish, if they will look on Me as their Father, I shall be a Father to them if they desire me as their Beloved, I shall be their Beloved, if they need strength, I will be their strength, and if they long to console Me, I will let them console Me, all I want is to give Myself to them, and to fill them with graces prepared for them, I cannot withhold them any longer”
Jesus explains, “love humbles itself before its own and in so doing raised them to the highest dignity. Love surrenders itself I totality it gives in profusion and without reserve. With enthusiasm, with vehemence it is sacrificed it is immolated, it is given for those it loves, The Holy Eucharist is love to the extreme folly” Josefa explained that it looked as if the Lord was unable to restrain the burning effusions of His Heart then His voice changed and He spoke with gravity saying “This love will lead me to my
death” The Lord then turned and told Josefa that she will accompany Him to Calvary tomorrow. Jesus raised his eyes to Heaven, and said, “May men adore the Father, May they love the Son, may they let themselves be possessed by the Holy Spirit and may the Blessed Trinity abide in them”. Jesus said to Josefa,“Oh if you could only see the beauty of a soul in grace, but this is hidden to moral eyes, Josefa. Look rather with eyes of faith, and realizing the value of souls, consecrate yourself to giving this glory to the Blessed Trinity by gaining many souls in which the Triune God may find a dwelling”. Jesus continued, “every soul can be instrumental in this sublime work nothing great is required, the smallest acts suffice, a step taken, a straw picked up a glance restrained, a service rendered a cordial smile all these offered to Love are in reality of great profit to souls and draw down floods of grace o them. No need to remind you of the fruits of prayer of sacrifice, of any act offered to expiate the sins of mankind, to obtain for them the grace of purification that they too may become fitting sanctuaries for the indwelling of the Blessed Trinity”. “And My longing is to set hearts on fire, to set the whole world on fire” Jesus said to Josefa on 12th June 1923.
The Lord told Josefa that He wanted her to relay all this words to the Bishop, which filled her with fear. Jesus explained that He is watching over her and that it is for souls and she must suffer, why did He not suffer to save souls. Jesus explained that the world must know Him, He explained,“they must love Me more, children ought to make their father known, You are my well loved daughter, specially chosen, that thorough you I may be revealed and that My Heart may be glorified. You need not fear, for I am strong and will make you strong, I am love and will sustain you, I will not abandon you”. Jesus told Josefa what to say to the Bishop thus, “I am Love, My Heart can no longer contain its devouring flames, and I love souls so dearly that I have
sacrificed my life for them”.
The Lord continued, “It is this love that keeps Me a prisoner in the Tabernacle. For twenty centuries I have dwelt there, night and day, veiled under the species of Bread and concealed in the small white Host bearing through love, neglect, solitude, contempt, blasphemies outrages, sacrileges. For love of souls, I instituted the Sacrament of Penance that I might forgive them, not once or twice, but as often as they need to recover grace. There I wait for them longing to wash away their sins, not in water but in My Blood. How often in the courses of ages have I, in one way or another, made it known My love for men, I have shown them how ardently I desire their salvation, I have revealed My \heart to them. This devotion has been a light cast over the whole earth, and today is a powerful means of gaining souls. And so of extending My kingdom”.
.
The Lord continued “Now, I want something more, for I have long for love in respond to My own this is not the only return I desire for souls, I want them all to have confidence in My mercy, to expect all from clemency, and never to doubt My readiness to forgive. I am God, but a God of love, I am a Father, but a Father full of compassion and never harsh. My Heart is infinityly Holy but also infeinitly wise, and knowing human frailty and infirmity, stoops to poor sinners with infitinity mercy.” Jesus continued, “I love those who after a first fall come to Me for pardon, I love them still more when they beg pardon for their second sin, and should this happen again I do not say a million times but a million, million times, I still over them and pardon them, and I will wash in My Blood their last and fully as their first sin. Never shall I wary of repentant sinners, nor cease from hoping for their return, and greater their distress the greater My welcome. Does not a father love a sick child with special affection, are not his care and solicitude greater, so is the tenderness and compassion of My Heart more abundant for sinners than for the just. This is what I wish all to know, I will teach sinners that the mercy of My Heart is inexhaustible. Let the callous and indifferent know that My Heart is a fire, which will enkindle them, because I love them. To devout and saintly souls I would be
the Way, that making great strides in perfection, they may safely reach the harbour of eternal beatitude. Lastly of consecrated souls, priest and religious, My elect and chosen ones, I ask, once more, all their love and that they should not doubt Mine, but
above al that they should trust Me and never doubt My mercy. It is so easy to trust completely in My Heart”. The Lord again told Josefa not be afraid and it was for souls and His glory. “Soon the never ending day will dawn” Jesus said 12th December 1923.
The Lord has made Himself a prisoner in the Tabernacle, but by keeping our churches locked we have placed Him in solitary
confinement. The Way of Divine Love, Sr Josefa Menendez The Author - Jesus, please read, as this is a compelling spiritual
manuscript.
the Way, that making great strides in perfection, they may safely reach the harbour of eternal beatitude. Lastly of consecrated souls, priest and religious, My elect and chosen ones, I ask, once more, all their love and that they should not doubt Mine, but
above al that they should trust Me and never doubt My mercy. It is so easy to trust completely in My Heart”. The Lord again told Josefa not be afraid and it was for souls and His glory. “Soon the never ending day will dawn” Jesus said 12th December 1923.
The Lord has made Himself a prisoner in the Tabernacle, but by keeping our churches locked we have placed Him in solitary
confinement. The Way of Divine Love, Sr Josefa Menendez The Author - Jesus, please read, as this is a compelling spiritual
manuscript.
Remember Christmas is not just for children, it is for Christians
Christmas has come to St Oswalds, the flowers were kindly donated and arranged by Iris, well done . We have a tree this year kindly donated by St Oswalds school. Many years ago when the prisoners of war were here (back of the racecourse and nr Ashton Heath, they made a beautiful crib for our church and the people of Ashton. It was said to be a work of art with moveable parts, the story goes that a priest gave it away. Many years ago the Sacred Heart chapel would be closed and a crib built in front of it. This is our crib now, we hope you like it. Here is a slide show of our crib. CLICK THE PICTURE BELOW TO START SLIDE SHOW
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© Copyright 2011 - Archdioces of Liverpool. All Rights Reserved.
© Copyright 2011 - Archdioces of Liverpool. All Rights Reserved.