The Church is now OPEN for morning Mass
We welcome you to the community of St. Teresa's in Morden. If you are a new parishioner, please come and introduce yourself and also complete a parish census form. You are welcome to become involved in any aspect of parish life. Thank you for taking the time to read this and feel free to come and have a chat about the parish at a mutually convenient time.
Parish events |
Scan QR code to donate
|
|
BLESSING AND ASSURANCE OF SPIRITUAL SUPPORT TO ALL ON OUR PARISH SICK LIST
We also send out our blessing to the bedsides of those in hospital, nursing and care homes.
May…
The compassion of Christ enfold you.
The arms of Christ support you.
The peace of Christ engulf you.
The grace of Christ sustain you.
The spirit of Christ renew you.
The power of Christ make you whole.
And the intercession of Our Lady Health of the Sick and Saint Teresa be a blessing in the days to come. Amen.
We pray for those who are Sick and Housebound remembering especially:
Anne-Marie Mendonça, Theresa Mason, Moira Macklin, Maureen Smith, Maureen Flaherty, John McDonagh, James Diver, Francesco Gargano, Theresa McGoldrick, Patricia Jayasena, Jean Lue, Ruba Santipillai, Baby Alexander Lynch, Erika Geddes, Denise Waaldjk, Valerie Somerset, Leonard James Connolly, Thea Haddad, Margaret Lahy, Brian Wratten, Ann Van Essen and Jane Turner, Kevin Mooney, John Mooney, Angela Patcheye, Leonard Paice, Ken and Margaret Peacock, Michael and Madge Durkan, Jocyln De Silva, Mary Jeanette Connaire, Mary Reilly, Alan O’Leary, Bill and June O’Keefe, Gerry Gillan, Bella Harding, Eileen Stevens, Dave Herris, Gabriel Lyons, Sylvester Forya, Anna Urbni, Tony London, Kevin McKeon, Vincent Moyle, John Antao, Stella Carrasco, Gerald Pereira, Pope Francis and Pope Benedict, Pope Emeritus.
My Lord, hear our prayers for all those who are sick in hospital, hospices and care homes. May they receive your special blessing.
If you wish to be prayed for on our Parish Sick List, please let us have your name. Every First Friday we offer and remember you in Holy Mass. We also keep you in our daily prayer, our times of Adoration, Novena’s and the Holy Rosary.
PLEASE continue to remember the Sick Clergy of the diocese and send out your blessing in prayer to all the Nations of the World, as they do their best to combat the pandemic and natural disasters that many nations are battling with at this time. THANK YOU!
May…
The compassion of Christ enfold you.
The arms of Christ support you.
The peace of Christ engulf you.
The grace of Christ sustain you.
The spirit of Christ renew you.
The power of Christ make you whole.
And the intercession of Our Lady Health of the Sick and Saint Teresa be a blessing in the days to come. Amen.
We pray for those who are Sick and Housebound remembering especially:
Anne-Marie Mendonça, Theresa Mason, Moira Macklin, Maureen Smith, Maureen Flaherty, John McDonagh, James Diver, Francesco Gargano, Theresa McGoldrick, Patricia Jayasena, Jean Lue, Ruba Santipillai, Baby Alexander Lynch, Erika Geddes, Denise Waaldjk, Valerie Somerset, Leonard James Connolly, Thea Haddad, Margaret Lahy, Brian Wratten, Ann Van Essen and Jane Turner, Kevin Mooney, John Mooney, Angela Patcheye, Leonard Paice, Ken and Margaret Peacock, Michael and Madge Durkan, Jocyln De Silva, Mary Jeanette Connaire, Mary Reilly, Alan O’Leary, Bill and June O’Keefe, Gerry Gillan, Bella Harding, Eileen Stevens, Dave Herris, Gabriel Lyons, Sylvester Forya, Anna Urbni, Tony London, Kevin McKeon, Vincent Moyle, John Antao, Stella Carrasco, Gerald Pereira, Pope Francis and Pope Benedict, Pope Emeritus.
My Lord, hear our prayers for all those who are sick in hospital, hospices and care homes. May they receive your special blessing.
If you wish to be prayed for on our Parish Sick List, please let us have your name. Every First Friday we offer and remember you in Holy Mass. We also keep you in our daily prayer, our times of Adoration, Novena’s and the Holy Rosary.
PLEASE continue to remember the Sick Clergy of the diocese and send out your blessing in prayer to all the Nations of the World, as they do their best to combat the pandemic and natural disasters that many nations are battling with at this time. THANK YOU!
GO IN PEACE AND RISE IN GLORY – FUNERALS THIS WEEK
Go on your way...
Go with our thanks for all you have meant to us and will continue to mean;
for all you have contributed to our lives in ways great and small.
Go to the one who created you, who welcomes you now and whose arms will enfold you always.
Go in peace until we meet again and share once more, never again to be parted.
RECENT DEATHS
Now At Rest And Kept In Prayer
Avril Jean Costella RIP
Shirley Johnson RIP
Dermot Peter Long RIP
Lourdes Mary Fatima
Irene Ward RIP
Sarah Marie Frost RIP
Veronica Gorrod RIP
Finbarr Francis Hurley RIP
Lolito Laydia RIP
Michael O’Kelly RIP
Newton Coutinho RIP
Anna Darby RIP
Mary Creighan RIP
Michael Joseph Nihill RIP
Gerald O'Toole RIP
Sarah Hedy Connolly RIP
Sotelo Cabrera RIP
Noel Ryan RIP
Michael Scott RIP
Anna-Maria Fantocchi RIP
Giovanni Corsini RIP
Gerry Kirrane RIP
Francis Assisi Mendonça RIP
Joseph Antony Quintus Rabindran RIP & Jayandradevi Rabindran RIP
Remo Dipre RIP
Alan Frederick Burridge RIP
Jonny Purvis RIP
Ann Donaldson RIP
Baby Angelika Hobbs RIP
Annie Francis RIP
Giovanni Mansini RIP
Joseph Lunn RIP
Norah Mary Williams RIP
Francisco José Carrasco RIP
Eva Sereny RIP
Steven Duggan RIP
Lena McBride RIP
Mary Whelan RIP
Mary Connolly RIP
Kevin Mattimoe RIP
Michael Bourke RIP
Dorothy Gertrude Cleary RIP
Frances Healion RIP
Recent Southwark Diocese Clergy Deaths
Deacon William Boyd RIP
Deacon Jim Hayes RIP
Fr. Paul Sanders RIP
Canon Richard Hearn RIP
Fr. Richard Diala RIP
Fr. Michael Boland RIP
Fr. Robert Copsey SOLT RIP
May They Meet The Risen Lord
Remind us, Dear Lord, of the great company of your people who have been called before us, famed or forgotten, celebrated or overlooked, all who have run their race and kept the faith, walking the way of Christ to their journeys end.
Hear our parish and family prayer for them. Hear our prayer for those whose anniversary occurs in this month of August. Please hear our prayers for all at rest in our local cemeteries.
Help us to learn from them, to be faithful servants of the Gospel and one day citizens of Heaven.
- Gabrrielle ‘Gay’ Beatreice Phillips RIP (Friday 20th October 2.40pm NE Surrey Crematorium)
…to new horizons, new life, new beginnings.
Go with our thanks for all you have meant to us and will continue to mean;
for all you have contributed to our lives in ways great and small.
Go to the one who created you, who welcomes you now and whose arms will enfold you always.
Go in peace until we meet again and share once more, never again to be parted.
RECENT DEATHS
Now At Rest And Kept In Prayer
Avril Jean Costella RIP
Shirley Johnson RIP
Dermot Peter Long RIP
Lourdes Mary Fatima
Irene Ward RIP
Sarah Marie Frost RIP
Veronica Gorrod RIP
Finbarr Francis Hurley RIP
Lolito Laydia RIP
Michael O’Kelly RIP
Newton Coutinho RIP
Anna Darby RIP
Mary Creighan RIP
Michael Joseph Nihill RIP
Gerald O'Toole RIP
Sarah Hedy Connolly RIP
Sotelo Cabrera RIP
Noel Ryan RIP
Michael Scott RIP
Anna-Maria Fantocchi RIP
Giovanni Corsini RIP
Gerry Kirrane RIP
Francis Assisi Mendonça RIP
Joseph Antony Quintus Rabindran RIP & Jayandradevi Rabindran RIP
Remo Dipre RIP
Alan Frederick Burridge RIP
Jonny Purvis RIP
Ann Donaldson RIP
Baby Angelika Hobbs RIP
Annie Francis RIP
Giovanni Mansini RIP
Joseph Lunn RIP
Norah Mary Williams RIP
Francisco José Carrasco RIP
Eva Sereny RIP
Steven Duggan RIP
Lena McBride RIP
Mary Whelan RIP
Mary Connolly RIP
Kevin Mattimoe RIP
Michael Bourke RIP
Dorothy Gertrude Cleary RIP
Frances Healion RIP
Recent Southwark Diocese Clergy Deaths
Deacon William Boyd RIP
Deacon Jim Hayes RIP
Fr. Paul Sanders RIP
Canon Richard Hearn RIP
Fr. Richard Diala RIP
Fr. Michael Boland RIP
Fr. Robert Copsey SOLT RIP
May They Meet The Risen Lord
Remind us, Dear Lord, of the great company of your people who have been called before us, famed or forgotten, celebrated or overlooked, all who have run their race and kept the faith, walking the way of Christ to their journeys end.
Hear our parish and family prayer for them. Hear our prayer for those whose anniversary occurs in this month of August. Please hear our prayers for all at rest in our local cemeteries.
Help us to learn from them, to be faithful servants of the Gospel and one day citizens of Heaven.
GABRIELLE 'GAY' BEATRICE PHILLIPS RIP – 2.40pm NE Surrey Crematorium
We continue to keep in prayer the soul of Gabrielle ‘Gay’ Beatrice Phillips RIP called to Eternal Life in her 97th year. We send out our love and blessing and condolences to all her family and friends.
"With Much Love for a Dear Mother, sadly missed, but not forgotten you will be in our thoughts forever."
May Gay Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory.
"With Much Love for a Dear Mother, sadly missed, but not forgotten you will be in our thoughts forever."
May Gay Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory.
CANON RICHARD HEARN KCHS, VG RIP
Canon Richard Hearn died following a brief illness, he was 56 years old. A man of integrity and ability; eighteen months-ago he accepted, with great generosity, Archbishop John Wilson’s invitation to become Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia: a challenging and new responsibility in which he excelled, revealing the true depth of his capabilities, both professional and pastoral. This role he combined with many others, all of which he enjoyed: in prison ministry; as Cathedral Dean; and as Master of Ceremonies to the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem in the Lieutenancy of England and Wales, holding the rank of Knight Commander. Whatever role or task he undertook, he did it with passion and excellence.
We offer our condolences to Archbishop John and all the team at the Cathedral who will miss Richard, our prayers also go to Canon Hearn’s family and friends.
May Canon Richard Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory.
We offer our condolences to Archbishop John and all the team at the Cathedral who will miss Richard, our prayers also go to Canon Hearn’s family and friends.
May Canon Richard Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory.
DOUGLAS BANKS
We send our condolences and prayers to Pat Banks and all the family of Douglas Banks who died on his 80thBirthday, Tuesday 5th October.
May Douglas Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory
May Douglas Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory
FR ROBERT COPSEY
We pray for the family and friends of Fr Robert Copsey who died recently. His Requiem Mass will be held on Friday 29th October at 11am, Our Lady of Pity and St Simon Stock Parish, Hazelwell Road, Putney SW15 6LU.
May Fr. Robert Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory.
May Fr. Robert Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory.
DANNY THOMPSON RIP – FIRST ANNIVERSARY MASS – ALL WELCOME
On Friday 29th October a memorial Mass will be held at 7pm for the first anniversary of Danny Thompson which is on 27th October. Canon Brian Coyle will be celebrating the Mass and his wife Eileen would like to welcome everyone in the parish that knew Danny. A Mass will be offered for all Stewards on Sunday 7th November 11am.
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING CON ON HIS JOURNEY TO BECOMING
OUR PARISH DEACON
Permanent Deacons assist with the Liturgy through the proclamation of the Gospel, the preparation of the gifts and, at times, by preaching. They are also able to administer the Sacrament of Baptism, preside at marriages, funerals and burials and conduct Communion Services in the absence of a priest.
The word “deacon” means “servant”. As such, deacons serve in the diocese and parish beyond the liturgy. They assist with religious education, help prepare couples for marriage and the baptism of their children. They may also assist with the administration of the parish. Generally deacons also have a ministry of charity and may assist with social outreach, hospital ministry, prison ministry, and so forth.
When Con is ordained on the 5th November by Archbishop John Wilson he joins the ranks of the clergy and should be treated as such.
I am looking forward to his Ordination and to his service and support in the life of our parish. Please keep him in your prayers and his wife Carmel and all the family. Thank you!
The word “deacon” means “servant”. As such, deacons serve in the diocese and parish beyond the liturgy. They assist with religious education, help prepare couples for marriage and the baptism of their children. They may also assist with the administration of the parish. Generally deacons also have a ministry of charity and may assist with social outreach, hospital ministry, prison ministry, and so forth.
When Con is ordained on the 5th November by Archbishop John Wilson he joins the ranks of the clergy and should be treated as such.
I am looking forward to his Ordination and to his service and support in the life of our parish. Please keep him in your prayers and his wife Carmel and all the family. Thank you!
POPE JOHN PAUL 1 TO BE BEATIFIED
Born on October 17, 1912 in Forno di Canale (today Canale d'Agordo), in the province of Belluno, and died on September 28, 1978 in the Vatican, Albino Luciani was Pope for only 34 days, one of the shortest pontificates in history. He was the son of a socialist worker who had worked for a long time as an emigrant in Switzerland.
Pope Francis has authorised the Congregation for the Causes of Saints to promulgate the decree on a miraculous healing attributed to the intercession of Pope John Paul I.
The miracle
The Congregation’s website says it is about the healing of an eleven-year-old girl at the end of her life with "severe acute inflammatory encephalopathy, a malignant refractory epileptic illness and septic shock". Her situation was very serious, characterized by numerous daily seizures and a septic state of bronchopneumonia. The initiative to invoke the Pope had been taken by the parish priest of the parish under whose jurisdiction was the hospital.
So for Pope John Paul I, who hailed from the northern Italian region of Veneto, the way to beatification has been cleared and Pope Francis will decide upon a date for the ceremony.
For further information on Pope John Paul 1 and his journey to becoming a Saint:
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2021-10/pope-john-paul-i-miracle-for-canonization.html
Pope Francis has authorised the Congregation for the Causes of Saints to promulgate the decree on a miraculous healing attributed to the intercession of Pope John Paul I.
The miracle
The Congregation’s website says it is about the healing of an eleven-year-old girl at the end of her life with "severe acute inflammatory encephalopathy, a malignant refractory epileptic illness and septic shock". Her situation was very serious, characterized by numerous daily seizures and a septic state of bronchopneumonia. The initiative to invoke the Pope had been taken by the parish priest of the parish under whose jurisdiction was the hospital.
So for Pope John Paul I, who hailed from the northern Italian region of Veneto, the way to beatification has been cleared and Pope Francis will decide upon a date for the ceremony.
For further information on Pope John Paul 1 and his journey to becoming a Saint:
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2021-10/pope-john-paul-i-miracle-for-canonization.html
Nine days of prayer to help defeat attempt to legalise assisted suicide
The Catholic Bishops of England and Wales invite the faithful to pray a novena, nine days of prayer, seeking the intercession of Pope Saint John Paul II, to help defeat the 'Assisted Dying Bill 2021' [see letter from Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales below]. The Bill will receive its Second Reading, with full debate, in the House of Lords on 22 October. If successful, it will allow terminally ill adults with less than six months to live, assistance to commit suicide.
In the lead up to the Second Reading, from Thursday 14 October, Catholics are encouraged to pray the novena with daily intentions to uphold the infinite worth of each human person through proper investment in palliative care.
Bishop John Sherrington, Lead Bishop for Life Issues, said: "Jesus told his disciples to pray at all times and not lose heart. Providentially the discussion of Baroness Meacher's Bill in the House of Lords falls on the feast of Saint John Paul II on 22 October.
"The novena, asking the intercession of Pope Saint John Paul II, who spoke courageously about the infinite worth of each human person and witnessed to the cross in his final illness, calls upon Catholics and all who share our view that assisted suicide is wrong, to pray with perseverance that this Bill will be defeated.
"Saint John Paul II, pray for us!"
Download a PDF of the novena to your phone or device here:
www.cbcew.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2021/10/Novena-Pope-St-JPII-Assisted-Suicide-2021.pdf
In the lead up to the Second Reading, from Thursday 14 October, Catholics are encouraged to pray the novena with daily intentions to uphold the infinite worth of each human person through proper investment in palliative care.
Bishop John Sherrington, Lead Bishop for Life Issues, said: "Jesus told his disciples to pray at all times and not lose heart. Providentially the discussion of Baroness Meacher's Bill in the House of Lords falls on the feast of Saint John Paul II on 22 October.
"The novena, asking the intercession of Pope Saint John Paul II, who spoke courageously about the infinite worth of each human person and witnessed to the cross in his final illness, calls upon Catholics and all who share our view that assisted suicide is wrong, to pray with perseverance that this Bill will be defeated.
"Saint John Paul II, pray for us!"
Download a PDF of the novena to your phone or device here:
www.cbcew.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2021/10/Novena-Pope-St-JPII-Assisted-Suicide-2021.pdf
ALTAR SERVERS
Sessions for October & November 2021 – 1pm to 2pm
Training and Refresher Course
A new Rota System will be in place as we welcome back our Altar Server Teams.
For those who wish to become Altar Severs there is now a training course arranged for October. Children must attend all five sessions in order to enrol. There will be consent forms available for parents to sign giving permission regarding live streaming. The training sessions will take place on a Saturday between 1-2pm at the Church.
Training Dates are as follows:
Saturday 23rd October (half-term) - no training
Saturday 30th October 1-2pm
Saturday 6th November 1-2pm
Saturday 13th November 1-2pm
All sessions MUST be completed by new Altar Servers.
DUTIES AT SUNDAY MASS
PREPARATION
6. If holy water is used, be sure the holy water bucket and aspergilium (sprinkler) are where the priest may want them.
7. Light candles. For Sunday Mass and the Saturday evening Vigil that means those on the altar and those on the high altar next to the tabernacle. If there are at least two servers, light the processional counters that you will carry. If you are a cross bearer (crucifer) get the cross and be ready to help lead the priest, deacon and other servers.
8. If you are carrying the thurible (incense) get it and be ready – YOU will lead the entrance procession.
REMEMBER: Don’t worry, we will show you how to serve, when to ring the bell, when to step forward with the water and wine, how to arrive and leave the sanctuary, all will be explained and senior servers and James will be on hand to guide you.
ALTAR SERVER PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank you for the opportunity to serve you during the Holy Mass.In Your Sacred Presence
My heart is filled with joy and peace. May your Spirit always guide me, I also ask Saint Teresa, Saint Stephen and my Guardian Angel to bless me and pray for my family and me as I serve at the altar.Amen.
Training and Refresher Course
A new Rota System will be in place as we welcome back our Altar Server Teams.
For those who wish to become Altar Severs there is now a training course arranged for October. Children must attend all five sessions in order to enrol. There will be consent forms available for parents to sign giving permission regarding live streaming. The training sessions will take place on a Saturday between 1-2pm at the Church.
Training Dates are as follows:
Saturday 23rd October (half-term) - no training
Saturday 30th October 1-2pm
Saturday 6th November 1-2pm
Saturday 13th November 1-2pm
All sessions MUST be completed by new Altar Servers.
DUTIES AT SUNDAY MASS
PREPARATION
- Arrive for your scheduled Mass 15 minutes prior to the start of the Mass.
- Wear clean shoes, black shoes preferred. You may wear sandals, but no flip-flops.
- Select your Alb. The Alb should be long enough to come to the top of your shoes. Remember your Alb is a sacred vestment and should be treated as such.
- Make sure these items are in place for Mass.
- Roman Missal
- Book stand on the altar
- Water jug, bowl and hand towel on the table
- Cruet of water on the table
- Unconsecrated hosts and wine on the table near the altar or if an Offertory Prossesion then placed at the table near the back bench.
6. If holy water is used, be sure the holy water bucket and aspergilium (sprinkler) are where the priest may want them.
7. Light candles. For Sunday Mass and the Saturday evening Vigil that means those on the altar and those on the high altar next to the tabernacle. If there are at least two servers, light the processional counters that you will carry. If you are a cross bearer (crucifer) get the cross and be ready to help lead the priest, deacon and other servers.
8. If you are carrying the thurible (incense) get it and be ready – YOU will lead the entrance procession.
REMEMBER: Don’t worry, we will show you how to serve, when to ring the bell, when to step forward with the water and wine, how to arrive and leave the sanctuary, all will be explained and senior servers and James will be on hand to guide you.
ALTAR SERVER PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank you for the opportunity to serve you during the Holy Mass.In Your Sacred Presence
My heart is filled with joy and peace. May your Spirit always guide me, I also ask Saint Teresa, Saint Stephen and my Guardian Angel to bless me and pray for my family and me as I serve at the altar.Amen.
Bishop’s Open Letter on Assisted Dying Bill
Bishop John Sherrington, our Lead Bishop for Life Issues, has written an open letter inviting Catholics to pray for the defeat of the Assisted Dying Bill to be debated in the House of Lords in October.
In the next weeks, we face an unprecedented attack on the sanctity of life with Baroness Meacher’s ‘Assisted Dying Bill 2021’ is due its 2nd Reading in the House of Lords with full debate on Friday, 22 October.
The term ‘Assisted Dying’ is euphemistic, the truth is that this bill seeks to introduce Assisted Suicide. If legalised, this Bill would allow a terminally ill adult with less than 6 months to live to be assisted in committing suicide. Catholic teaching opposes
assisting suicide, since life is a gift to be cared for and preserved until its natural death. The Church is clear that we cannot directly choose to take the life of another, even if they request it. The solidarity of praying and caring for the most vulnerable at this fragile time of their lives is a profoundly Christian act which imitates Our Lady’s prayer at the cross and Christ’s service to the weakest.
Those in favour of the bill are making good use of language to confuse the issue and call it a compassionate and caring approach to redefine the question and obscure the actual reality and consequences of such legislation.
As Pope Francis has said, “Physician-assisted suicide is part of a ‘throwaway culture’ that offers a ‘false compassion’ and treats a human person as a problem… True compassion does not marginalise anyone, nor does it humiliate and exclude – much
less considers the disappearance of a person as a good thing.” He criticised “those who hide behind an alleged compassion to justify and approve the death of a patient.”
Dangers of the introduction of Assisted Suicide
Importantly, at this stage we need to argue the dangers of the introduction of Assisted Suicide, which include the safety of people who are vulnerable due to external pressures, and the later liberalisation of the law which is evidenced by other countries
which have introduced Assisted Suicide. Many voices from the world of disability-rights and other allies are also very fearful and fighting this bill. Whilst there are clear arguments to support Catholic teachings, it is important to remember that this position is not only a matter of faith but also human reason.
Later this month, the BMA will be debating whether to change their stance to support or neutrality on this matter. I hope that healthcare professionals will enter this debate and highlight the dangers of this Bill to change and skew the meaning of medicine.
Take action
There are three important actions in the next weeks: praying, writing and sharing. First, I ask you to pray that the Bill will be defeated.
Second, I ask you to write to the Peers – details at bit.ly/3hCaa8T – from your personal experience and share stories which will argue the reasons for opposing the Bill as well as narrate the importance of precious time during the final stages of life.
The testimony of healthcare and legal professionals will also be important. This needs to be done before the Second Reading on 22 October. Third, I ask you to engage and share stories and reasons against the Bill on social media.
Briefing papers will be available on the bishops’ conference website to assist you as this work develops.
Be assured of my prayers,
+John
Bishop John Sherrington
Lead Bishop for Life Issues
Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales
In the next weeks, we face an unprecedented attack on the sanctity of life with Baroness Meacher’s ‘Assisted Dying Bill 2021’ is due its 2nd Reading in the House of Lords with full debate on Friday, 22 October.
The term ‘Assisted Dying’ is euphemistic, the truth is that this bill seeks to introduce Assisted Suicide. If legalised, this Bill would allow a terminally ill adult with less than 6 months to live to be assisted in committing suicide. Catholic teaching opposes
assisting suicide, since life is a gift to be cared for and preserved until its natural death. The Church is clear that we cannot directly choose to take the life of another, even if they request it. The solidarity of praying and caring for the most vulnerable at this fragile time of their lives is a profoundly Christian act which imitates Our Lady’s prayer at the cross and Christ’s service to the weakest.
Those in favour of the bill are making good use of language to confuse the issue and call it a compassionate and caring approach to redefine the question and obscure the actual reality and consequences of such legislation.
As Pope Francis has said, “Physician-assisted suicide is part of a ‘throwaway culture’ that offers a ‘false compassion’ and treats a human person as a problem… True compassion does not marginalise anyone, nor does it humiliate and exclude – much
less considers the disappearance of a person as a good thing.” He criticised “those who hide behind an alleged compassion to justify and approve the death of a patient.”
Dangers of the introduction of Assisted Suicide
Importantly, at this stage we need to argue the dangers of the introduction of Assisted Suicide, which include the safety of people who are vulnerable due to external pressures, and the later liberalisation of the law which is evidenced by other countries
which have introduced Assisted Suicide. Many voices from the world of disability-rights and other allies are also very fearful and fighting this bill. Whilst there are clear arguments to support Catholic teachings, it is important to remember that this position is not only a matter of faith but also human reason.
Later this month, the BMA will be debating whether to change their stance to support or neutrality on this matter. I hope that healthcare professionals will enter this debate and highlight the dangers of this Bill to change and skew the meaning of medicine.
Take action
There are three important actions in the next weeks: praying, writing and sharing. First, I ask you to pray that the Bill will be defeated.
Second, I ask you to write to the Peers – details at bit.ly/3hCaa8T – from your personal experience and share stories which will argue the reasons for opposing the Bill as well as narrate the importance of precious time during the final stages of life.
The testimony of healthcare and legal professionals will also be important. This needs to be done before the Second Reading on 22 October. Third, I ask you to engage and share stories and reasons against the Bill on social media.
Briefing papers will be available on the bishops’ conference website to assist you as this work develops.
Be assured of my prayers,
+John
Bishop John Sherrington
Lead Bishop for Life Issues
Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales
AN INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION DESIGNED AND CREATED BY CARLO ACUTIS THE SERVANT OF GOD
SECONDARY SCHOOL APPLICATION FORMS
Secondary School Application Form signing sessions are now closed. There were 87 applications and were mainly for girls. We wish all students every success in their future education and may God Bless their studies and journey of faith.
The Passage
The Passage a Catholic Charity working with homeless people has its annual opportunity to take up a public collection on the streets of the City of Westminster on Tuesday 19 October (from 7.00 a.m. to 6.30 p.m.). In order to make the most of this opportunity to raise funds to support homeless people they need more volunteers on the day. Could anyone interested please contact Andrew Hollingsworth andrew.h@passage.org.uk 020 7592 1886 (07928 703131)
RCIA - MEETING
We wish to help you and support your journey of faith. The Catholic Church is the Church founded by Christ Himself and the one true Church. We have much to offer. We hope to start a special course in early autumn – it’s called RCIA. If you are interested please let us know, email us on morden@rcaos.org.uk and we will get back to you.
A meeting for all those who are interested will be held on Monday 18th October at 6pm in the church.
We look forward to meeting you.
A meeting for all those who are interested will be held on Monday 18th October at 6pm in the church.
We look forward to meeting you.
MARRIAGE & FAMILY LIFE SW PASTORAL AREA
RESTORED LIVES
A course for people whose relationship has broken down.
DEALING WITH RELATIONSHIP BREAKDOWN
Relationship breakdown can be the hardest experience of a person’s life. No one should have to face it on their own. By joining a Restored Lives course, you can become part of, and supported by, a local group working together to find a way forward. The next eight-session online course starts on October 4. For more details and to book visit the website restoredlives.org.
BEREAVEMENT WEEKEND
This Aylesford weekend on October 8-10 is for those who have been bereaved.
GRIEF AND LOSS: HOPE IN CHRIST
Have you been bereaved? If so, this weekend being held at Aylesford Priory is for you, an opportunity to mourn but also to share with and be supported by others. The date is October 8-10. For more information phone 01303 670 880 or email mflgac@rcaos.org.uk
BEGINNING EXPERIENCE
This weekend course is for those who find themselves starting a new life as a single person.
STARTING LIFE AGAIN AS A SINGLE
If you are single again following divorce, separation or the death of your partner, a residential Beginning Experience weekend to help you heal will be held from October 8-10 at the Sion Community, Brentwood, Essex. For more details, please ring 01322 838415 or email besouthofengland@gmail.com.
SYCAMORE: GROWING IN FAITH TOGETHER
An online course starting October 16 aimed at helping engaged and married couples understand their faith and relationship better.
GROWING IN FAITH TOGETHER
Do you wish to understand your faith and your relationship better? The SycamOre online course, which is aimed at engaged and married couples, aims to help you do just that. It gives you the opportunity to explore your beliefs, think about questions that really matter and share ideas. Each session involves a short film and time for discussion. Everyone is welcome. The four one-hour sessions run on consecutive Saturdays mornings beginning October 16. For more details email Carole on mflkent@rcaos.org.uk
Yours in the Lord
Philip & Mary
Deacon Philip & Mrs Mary Pond
MARRIAGE & FAMILY LIFE
Roman Catholic Diocese of Southwark: South-West Pastoral Area Coordinators
A course for people whose relationship has broken down.
DEALING WITH RELATIONSHIP BREAKDOWN
Relationship breakdown can be the hardest experience of a person’s life. No one should have to face it on their own. By joining a Restored Lives course, you can become part of, and supported by, a local group working together to find a way forward. The next eight-session online course starts on October 4. For more details and to book visit the website restoredlives.org.
BEREAVEMENT WEEKEND
This Aylesford weekend on October 8-10 is for those who have been bereaved.
GRIEF AND LOSS: HOPE IN CHRIST
Have you been bereaved? If so, this weekend being held at Aylesford Priory is for you, an opportunity to mourn but also to share with and be supported by others. The date is October 8-10. For more information phone 01303 670 880 or email mflgac@rcaos.org.uk
BEGINNING EXPERIENCE
This weekend course is for those who find themselves starting a new life as a single person.
STARTING LIFE AGAIN AS A SINGLE
If you are single again following divorce, separation or the death of your partner, a residential Beginning Experience weekend to help you heal will be held from October 8-10 at the Sion Community, Brentwood, Essex. For more details, please ring 01322 838415 or email besouthofengland@gmail.com.
SYCAMORE: GROWING IN FAITH TOGETHER
An online course starting October 16 aimed at helping engaged and married couples understand their faith and relationship better.
GROWING IN FAITH TOGETHER
Do you wish to understand your faith and your relationship better? The SycamOre online course, which is aimed at engaged and married couples, aims to help you do just that. It gives you the opportunity to explore your beliefs, think about questions that really matter and share ideas. Each session involves a short film and time for discussion. Everyone is welcome. The four one-hour sessions run on consecutive Saturdays mornings beginning October 16. For more details email Carole on mflkent@rcaos.org.uk
Yours in the Lord
Philip & Mary
Deacon Philip & Mrs Mary Pond
MARRIAGE & FAMILY LIFE
Roman Catholic Diocese of Southwark: South-West Pastoral Area Coordinators
ARE YOU CONSIDERING GETTING MARRIED?
Please be aware of the following change in the law which takes effect from 1st July 2021!
Immigration laws for EEA nationals will change from the 1 July to reflect the changes brought about following EU Exit. These changes will impact EEA citizens who wish to marry in England and Wales as the definition of a relevant national has changed. A relevant national, from the 1 July 2021, will be classed as:
• A British Citizen
• An Irish Citizen
• An EEA National who has been granted Settled or Pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) or those with a pending application submitted before the 30 June 2021.
Currently couples who are subject to immigration control must make an appointment at one of 75 Designated Register Offices within England and Wales to give notice to marry. From the 1 July 2021, all register offices will be designated for the purposes of taking a marriage for these couples.
An EEA national who does not hold a status under the EUSS will be treated as all other foreign nationals and will have to give notice of their intention to marry (together with their partner) at a register office in the registration district where either resides and be issued with a Marriage Schedule.
Immigration laws for EEA nationals will change from the 1 July to reflect the changes brought about following EU Exit. These changes will impact EEA citizens who wish to marry in England and Wales as the definition of a relevant national has changed. A relevant national, from the 1 July 2021, will be classed as:
• A British Citizen
• An Irish Citizen
• An EEA National who has been granted Settled or Pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) or those with a pending application submitted before the 30 June 2021.
Currently couples who are subject to immigration control must make an appointment at one of 75 Designated Register Offices within England and Wales to give notice to marry. From the 1 July 2021, all register offices will be designated for the purposes of taking a marriage for these couples.
An EEA national who does not hold a status under the EUSS will be treated as all other foreign nationals and will have to give notice of their intention to marry (together with their partner) at a register office in the registration district where either resides and be issued with a Marriage Schedule.
PARISH FINANCE
Sunday Collections and Donations
During the current situation, we would like to say a huge THANK YOU to the many of you who have kindly signed up to standing orders. This is so much appreciated and valued. If you wish to contribute by cheque in lieu of plate collections, this can be sent to the presbytery: St. Teresa’s Church, 250 Bishopsford Road, Morden, Surrey, SM4 6BJ. They may be made payable to St. Teresa’s Catholic Church.
Our thanks to the families of Maureen Deb and Theresa Bearn for their generosity and thoughtfulness for the kind donation of £1,000 each in honour of the memory of Maureen and Theresa.
May God bless you and may their souls Rest In Peace and Rise In Glory.
Many thanks to those of you who have so kindly offered to set up standing orders in lieu of our Sunday plate collections. This is a most convenient method of planned giving (for all concerned); already used by so many at Morden – and is vitally important at this time. Regular standing orders can be for any amount, no matter how small – just give what you can afford. Please send a written request via the parish office with contact details.
We will be happy to receive any offerings directly by on-line banking or by standing order, which can be arranged through your bank, or by using the DONATE link here or on the parish website.
Our thanks to the families of Maureen Deb and Theresa Bearn for their generosity and thoughtfulness for the kind donation of £1,000 each in honour of the memory of Maureen and Theresa.
May God bless you and may their souls Rest In Peace and Rise In Glory.
Many thanks to those of you who have so kindly offered to set up standing orders in lieu of our Sunday plate collections. This is a most convenient method of planned giving (for all concerned); already used by so many at Morden – and is vitally important at this time. Regular standing orders can be for any amount, no matter how small – just give what you can afford. Please send a written request via the parish office with contact details.
We will be happy to receive any offerings directly by on-line banking or by standing order, which can be arranged through your bank, or by using the DONATE link here or on the parish website.
Do You Gift Aid?
The value of your donation can be increased by 25% at no extra cost to yourself, simply by gift aiding it if you are a taxpayer. The parish learns nothing about your private financial affairs. The average weekly collection between plate and standing orders, is approximately £2,400 a week. If only half of that was GIFT AIDED, it would mean an extra £300 a week, or £15,600 a year to Parish funds. We are genuinely grateful to those who are Gift-Aiding. If you haven’t been doing so, please print off a Gift Aid form from the parish website. At the present time the parish income is down about £5,000 each month. Hopefully, when parish life returns to normal, we will soon see these financial worries and concerns disappear.
Thank you
Thank you to everybody who continues to support the parish through the collection, standing orders, gift aid and dropping in contributions. Online donations have seen an increase recently - A big THANK YOU FOR THOSE DONATIONS coming in via our parish website 'JUST GIVING' - Press the button marked DONATE. If you scroll down further, we also say 'Thanks' for your support and other ways you can support our parish. Again, THANK
YOU.
YOU.
GIFT AID NOTICE
PLEASE COLLECT YOUR GIFT AID ENVELOPES FROM THE CONTACT CORNER
For those already signed up, Gift Aid Envelopes will be available during this weekend 3/4th April. Please collect your Gift Aid or Standing Order envelopes before or after Mass from the Contact Corner. If you pay tax and would like to join, please have a word with one of the team , it's simple and at no extra cost to you the Church can claim back 25%. See below for more details Do You Gift Aid?
For those already signed up, Gift Aid Envelopes will be available during this weekend 3/4th April. Please collect your Gift Aid or Standing Order envelopes before or after Mass from the Contact Corner. If you pay tax and would like to join, please have a word with one of the team , it's simple and at no extra cost to you the Church can claim back 25%. See below for more details Do You Gift Aid?
CARD READERS
To make things easier we have now introduced a number of card readers which you will find throughout the church. The CollecTin reader is near the Icon of Padre Pio, instructions are listed next to the machine. You can use this for all offertories and donations.
The Sum-Up card reader will be situated in the narthex near the statue of St Teresa and can be used only for candles. Coming soon in the Repository will be another card reader so that you can pay for all your purchases using a credit/debit card.
The Sum-Up card reader will be situated in the narthex near the statue of St Teresa and can be used only for candles. Coming soon in the Repository will be another card reader so that you can pay for all your purchases using a credit/debit card.
COLLECTIN
CollecTin is a card reader on which you can give your offertory and any other donation. All special collections will be listed on this machine and if you Gift Aid you need only register once, and it will remember you for all your donations - if you use the same card (each card would need to be registered).
Candles
SUMUP CARD READER
- IF THE SCREEN IS BLANK press the power button
- ENTER THE AMOUNT YOU WISH TO DONATE e.g. 5-0-0 is £5.00, and press the green tick button
- TAP CARD for contactless or INSERT CARD using your pin
- SELECT RECEIPT use up and down arrows to select option required
QR SCAN POINTS
There is now the opportunity to donate using a QR Scanner on your phone (if you have one installed).
There are a number of Scan points in the church, one by the Statue of the Sacred Heart, one by the Exit side door and one on the noticeboard in the porch.
There are a number of Scan points in the church, one by the Statue of the Sacred Heart, one by the Exit side door and one on the noticeboard in the porch.
Please Be Aware
At this time, there is an increasing risk of cybercrime and online fraud. If you ever receive an email stating a change in bank account details purporting to be from the Archdiocese or from any of the diocesan parishes, please contact the diocese immediately by telephone on 020 8682 7880 in order to verify that the email is genuine and not a scam.
Basic Government Advise on Face Coverings/Masks at Mass
Face coverings are mandatory now in places of worship. Many of you already attend Holy Mass wearing one – Thank You!
From now on at St. Teresa’s all who attend Mass or any other service must wear a face covering, unless they are exempt from doing so. This is for the good of all who gather in the Church for Mass, as it is an enclosed public space where there are people from different households who do not normally meet.
From now on at St. Teresa’s all who attend Mass or any other service must wear a face covering, unless they are exempt from doing so. This is for the good of all who gather in the Church for Mass, as it is an enclosed public space where there are people from different households who do not normally meet.
Mass at St. Teresa’s
St. Teresa’s Parish General Protocols
The Cardinal and the Archbishop wish to reassure you that THE DISPENATION of the faithful from the obligation to attend SUNDAY MASS remains in place for the time being. NO ONE IS OBLIGED to attend Holy Mass whilst dispensation is in effect.
The Cardinal and the Archbishop wish to reassure you that THE DISPENATION of the faithful from the obligation to attend SUNDAY MASS remains in place for the time being. NO ONE IS OBLIGED to attend Holy Mass whilst dispensation is in effect.
- All Sunday and Weekday Masses will continue to be Streamed Live on the Internet via the usual link.
- Attendees and volunteers from demographic groups at a greater risk of serious illness, such as people 65 years of age or older and individuals with chronic medical conditions, are encouraged to stay safe by avoiding public gatherings, but are not prohibited from attending Mass if they so choose.
- Anyone attending Mass does so at their own risk.
- All attendees are strongly encouraged to wear a mask before entering the church, until they leave. Each person should bring their own masks.
- Another reminder: ANYONE who has even the slightest symptoms or feelings of sickness must remain home.
- THE MAXIMUM CAPACITY, (at this time), at Holy Mass is JUST 40 to be compliant with physical distancing guidelines issued by The Bishop’s Conference and the Government.
- Until further notice: Our Parish will adopt a FIRST COME, FIRST-SERVED approach at all our Masses.
- Please watch out for signage. Separate points of entry and exit will be clearly designated.
- We are required to keep a register of all attendees. So please put your name, address, contact telephone number, email address (if applicable) and the Mass you are attending on a piece of paper which you will hand in on entrance to the church.
- All attendees will be directed to their own special seat so as to monitor occupancy.
- Two benches will be designated for families.
- Infants and children should remain with their parents AT ALL TIMES.
- It is O.K. to wear disposable gloves. Those cleaning or altar cloths, replenishing candles or handling the parish collection should wear disposable gloves.
- We will have one point of entry in order to control the number of people entering. Once the maximum number of attendees is reached, no one else will be allowed entry.
- Doors will be locked until 25 minutes before Mass begins.
- If weather permits, all doors will be propped open before Mass as you arrive so that you do not need to touch the handles or doors to enter.
- At the end of Mass, exits will be signposted and indicated by the parish priest to expedite the guided departure and minimise chances of people encountering one another. In all cases, PHYSICAL DISTANCING MUST BE OBSERVED.
- I will be delighted to see you back, but please note that I must refrain from greeting you personally at the end of Mass. I must not impede or delay the orderly and rapid departure of you and your family.
- The Parish Church is closed at the end of each Mass for a special cleaning. Our thanks to the parish team.
- Please be aware that there will be NO toilet facilities.
SAFETY
- Physical distancing of 6 feet or 2 metres is in place at all times and in all directions between people who are not of the same household.
- You will be led by a team member to your seat – please do not move or swap seats.
- Reminder – Volunteers and ALL members of the congregation should use the Medical Guidelines that have been issued before attending Mass. If you have ANY symptoms, such as a cough, fever, shortness of breath, runny nose or sore throat, please stay at home.
- All team members, welcomers and participants – please wear your own personal shield or mask.
- All who attend must observe proper hand hygiene from the point of entry, whilst inside and upon exciting the church.
- Hand sanitising stations are available by the doors of the church.
- Hand washing with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds (say a prayer) is also strongly encouraged before arriving for Holy Mass.
HOLY MASS
These are some of the main points to note:
- Sacred Vessels will be purified and washed by the parish priest after Mass. This reduces the risk and need to have sacristans and Eucharistic ministers in the sacristy.
- No singing of hymns at this time. SORRY!
- Entrance and recessional processions are omitted. There will be a simple entrance by the priest.
- There will be only one lector and one reading.
- No Altar Servers so as to minimise the risk of exposure and to properly maintain physical distancing at all times.
- The chalice, paten, ciborium, cruets and lavabo will be on a small table beside the altar.
- Your parish priest will not be wearing a mask during the Liturgy of the Eucharist; therefore, all ciboria will be covered at all times. He will wear a visor if and when he distributes Holy Communion.
- No presentation of gifts will be made.
- No collection is taken up during the Mass. Instead, bins/baskets will be at strategic points for the faithful to make their offerings at the end of Mass. Secure vigilance will be in place over the donations.
- There is no Sign of Peace.
- There will be no Holy Water in fonts.
- All hymnals, missalettes, pew cards, pencils, donation envelopes and other loose items will be removed.
- Newsletters are only available on-line at the parish website.
- The individual attestation at the distribution of Holy Communion (“The Body of Christ, R:Amen) is eliminated. Instead, one general announcement (“The Body of Christ”) will be made by the parish priest, and one general response (“Amen”) is to be made by one and all before distribution begins. Then each person who wishes to receive the Blessed Sacrament comes forward in procession at a safe distance and receives in silence.
- The Precious Blood will not be distributed at this time.
- Holy Communion may only be received in the hand.
- For the common good, our Bishops around the world acknowledge that Communion on the tongue is the right of the faithful, ask you please receive ONLY in the hand until further notice. Thank you for your understanding and support.
- When needed, Ministers of the Eucharist may be invited to officiate at Holy Communion time. If called upon, Ministers of Holy Communion must sanitise their hands immediately after receiving Communion BEFORE distributing Holy Communion to the faithful. They must also sanitise their hands immediately after distribution.
Should you have any questions regarding this information please reply by email: morden@rcaos.org.uk or call our parish number: 020 8648 4113
PERFECT CONTRITION AND SPIRITUAL COMMUNION
What to do if you cannot go to Confession or Holy Communion due to the COVID-19 coronavirus.
If you have to self-isolate or are quarantined, you will be unable to receive the sacraments as normal. In these circumstances, there are devotions through which you can receive absolution for your sins (under certain conditions), and the consolation of Eucharistic grace.
The following devotions are officially encouraged by the Church and have been practised by saints.
If you have to self-isolate or are quarantined, you will be unable to receive the sacraments as normal. In these circumstances, there are devotions through which you can receive absolution for your sins (under certain conditions), and the consolation of Eucharistic grace.
The following devotions are officially encouraged by the Church and have been practised by saints.
How to make an Act of Perfect Contrition
Through an act of Perfect Contrition, you receive pardon for your sins outside of confession, even mortal sins, on condition that you are determined to amend your life and make a firm resolution to go to sacramental confession as soon as this becomes possible for you.
Perfect Contrition is a grace from God, so sincerely ask for this gift throughout the day prior to making you act of contrition: ‘My God, grant me perfect contrition for my sins.'
Perfect Contrition is a grace from God, so sincerely ask for this gift throughout the day prior to making you act of contrition: ‘My God, grant me perfect contrition for my sins.'
- In reality or imagination kneel at the foot of the crucifix and say to yourself: “ Jesus, my God and my Saviour, in the midst of your agony, you remembered me, you suffered for me, you wished to wipe away my sins”
- Contrition is ‘perfect’ if you repent your sins because you love God ans are sorry for having offended Him and causing the sufferings of Christ on the cross. Before the Crucified Christ remember your sins, repent of them because they have bought our Lord His sufferings on the cross. Promise him that with His help, you will not sin again.
- Recite, slowly and sincerely, an act of contrition focussed on the goodness of God and your love of Jesus: “O my God, because You are so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against You and by the help of Your grace I will not sin again. Amen.”
- Make a firm resolution to goo to a sacramental confession as soon as practically possible.
How to make a Spiritual Communion
The key to Spiritual Communion is to grow in your heart a constant desire for the Blessed Sacrament.
- If you are aware of serious or mortal sin, make an Act of Perfect Contrition
- Imagine the sacred words and actions of the Mass or watch online or on TV.
- Make all those acts of faith, humility, sorrow, adoration, love and desire that you usually
express before Holy Communion. - Desire, with earnest longing, to receive our Lord present – Body, Blood, soul and Divinity –
in the Blessed Sacrament, - Say this prayer of St. Alphonsus de’ Ligouri: “My Jesus, I believe You are present in the
Blessed Sacrament. I love You above all things, and I desire You in my soul. Since I cannot now receive You sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. As though You are already there, I embrace You and unite myself wholly to You; do not let me ever be separated from You, Amen.” - After moments of silent adoration make all those acts of faith, humility, love, thanksgiving and offering that you usually express through prayers after Holy Communion.
Regular Mass Times
|
Saturday Vigil Mass |
5.30pm online |
Sunday |
9.00am online 11.00am online |
Monday - Saturday |
10.00am online |
Spiritual Reflection |
6pm online |
How To Find Us
250 Bishopsford Road, Morden, Surrey SM4 6BZ
Tel: 020 8648 4113