On Good Friday morning, Stations of the Cross were prayed in Church. Together the Parish Community went on the same journey to the Cross, just as Jesus did.

We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You
Because by Your Holy Cross You have redeemed the world.

In the afternoon the Solemn Liturgy of The Lord’s Passion took place at St Mary’s. This Solemn Liturgy is the second part of ‘The Sacred Paschal Triduum’.

The Solemn Liturgy has three parts:

1. The Liturgy of the Word
2. The Adoration of the Cross
3. Holy Communion

In the photo above; the Altar is set up for Holy Communion.

At the Solemn Mass of The Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday just after Holy Communion a procession takes place from the main Altar to the Altar of Repose.

It is here at the Altar of Repose where ‘Watching’ takes place.
“Could you not watch with me for one hour?”

The Solemn Mass of the Lord’s Supper was celebrated earlier this evening at St Mary’s. This Mass is the first part of ‘The Sacred Paschal Triduum’.

After the proclamation of the Gospel, the Priest gives a homily in which light is shed on the principal mysteries that are commemorated in this Mass, namely, the institution of the Holy Eucharist and of the priestly Order, and the commandment of the Lord concerning fraternal charity. (From the Roman Missal)

This is my body, broken for you…

This is my blood, which is poured out for you – do this in memory of me.

Earlier today the Lancaster Diocese Chrism Mass was celebrated at St Peter’s Cathedral in Lancaster.

All Priests of the Diocese are required to attend this Mass with their Bishop. People from across the Diocese are also encouraged to attend.

‘The blessing of the Oil of the Sick and of the Oil of Catechumens and the consecration of the Chrism are carried out by the Bishop at this Mass. In accord with traditional practice, the blessing of the Oil of the Sick takes place before the end of the Eucharistic Prayer…

but the blessing of the Oil of Catechumens and the consecration of the Chrism take place after Communion.’ (From the Roman Missal)

Bishop Mar Joseph Srampickal (pictured above with Bishop Campbell) is the Bishop of the Eparchy of Great Britain of the Syro-Malabar Church. Bishop Campbell welcomed him to the Chrism Mass.

Congratulations to the Sacramental Preparation Group of children who received the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) for the first time at St Mary’s Church on Friday evening.

Thank you to the Catechists for their work in helping prepare the children over the past few weeks.

The Sacramental Preparation classes are now on an Easter break. The next class is on Sunday 30th April after the 10:30am Mass at St Mary’s.

A short Penitential Service for the parents and children took place before Confessions.
(This photo was taken during the silent reflection)

Hosanna to the Son of David – words from the Entrance Antiphon for the Mass of Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord. On this day the Church recalls the entrance of Christ the Lord into Jerusalem to accomplish his Paschal Mystery.

In this photo the blessing of the palm branches can be seen taking place.

Father, if this chalice cannot pass without my drinking it, your will be done.
(Words of the Communion Antiphon)

The Lenten Penitential Service took place last night at St Mary’s. Thank you to the four priests who came to help with Confessions and also to all those who attended.

If you were unable to attend the service and would like to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) then please do feel free to attend tomorrow at any of the following:

The Good Shepherd 10:30am – 11:00am
St Mary’s 11:30am – 12noon
St Patrick’s 5:15pm – 5:40pm