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Newsletter 06th July 2025

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This July, we celebrate the message of peace: “Let peace flow like a river” (Isaiah 66:12). We warmly invite all parishioners to our Parish Feast and Summer Celebration on Sunday, 27th July 2025. The day will begin with the 10:30 am Feast Mass, including baptisms and First Holy Communion, followed by a joyful gathering with food, music, dancing, raffle, and community fun in the church grounds. A three-day Novena will be held before the Feast, with special prayers for expectant mothers, grandchildren, and parish families.

As many begin their summer holidays, we pray for your safe journeys. Our Pizza and Campfire Evening on 5th July was a great success, and more youth events are being planned. The next Family Mass will also be on 27th July at 10:30 am; there will be no catechism on that day.

If you wish to volunteer this summer in gardening, painting, or tidying up the church, please speak to Fr James or Sr Ursula. Weekly pilgrimage devotions continue every Tuesday evening and Saturday noon, with upcoming Rosary Walks in Richmond Park on 19th July and 2nd August.

Please note that roadworks will take place this week around the church, and the front entrance will be closed; kindly use the side entrance.

Fr James will be away from 4th to 22nd August. For any sacraments or arrangements, please contact the parish office before then.

14th Sunday – Homily – “Peace Like a River”

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, Today, I invite you to reflect deeply on peace.

Isaiah says in the first reading, “Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river.”

Peace like a river.

What a beautiful image! A river flows gently, but it never stops. It nourishes every plant, every tree, every creature along its banks. Even when the land is dry, even in hidden places, the river moves onward, silently giving life.

That is how God’s peace works in us.

It is not a stagnant pond. It is not just a short moment of quiet. It is constant, steady, nourishing.

When God gives peace, it’s not shallow or temporary. It is like a river flowing through your life, shaping you, refreshing you, carrying you through deserts and storms.

But here is the truth: Peace does not mean a life without problems. Even the river faces rocks, twists, and turns but it keeps flowing.

This is the peace that God wants for you – not a life free of suffering – but a heart that can flow through it all.

Now let us listen to the words of Jesus Himself. Every time the Risen Lord appeared to His disciples, what were His first words?

“Peace be with you.” To frightened, anxious, confused people locked in a room, Jesus came through those locked doors and said, “Peace be with you.” (John 20:19)

When we are locked in fear, Jesus comes to us – not with blame or punishment – but with peace.

He says again, “My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled.” (John 14:27)

Look at this carefully: The world offers peace through distraction, possessions, or comfort.
But Jesus offers peace through His presence.

When you carry the peace of Christ within you:

  • You may still face storms but you will not sink.
  • You may still walk through valleys but you will not fear.
  • You may still carry burdens but you will not be crushed.

This peace flows from knowing God holds you, walks with you, carries you.

Now, let us pause and ask, what does peace do in our lives?

Peace makes you lighter. When you are at peace, you let go of grudges, fears, and worries.

Peace makes you stronger. You can face suffering and remain calm.

Peace makes you clearer. You can see what truly matters, and not be distracted by every little trouble.

Peace makes you patient. You stop rushing. You start trusting.

Psychologists tell us that inner peace activates the parasympathetic nervous system the part of the brain responsible for healing, rest, and clarity.
When you are at peace, your mind opens, your body heals, your focus sharpens.

Peace isn’t weakness, it is spiritual strength.

It is in peace that we hear God’s voice clearly.
It is in peace that we see others with love, not judgement.

Now, my dear friends, we must ask, how do we live this peace?

The answer is in the beautiful Peace Prayer of St Francis of Assisi.

Let us make this our prayer today, not just with words but with our lives.

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
Where there is sadness, joy.

This is our mission not just to receive peace but to become peace.

Let your life become a river of peace

  • flowing into your family,
  • flowing into your workplace,
  • flowing into your parish,
  • flowing into every person you meet.

Leave this church today not just asking for peace but carrying peace within you.

As Jesus says again today: “Peace be with you.”

Let it settle deep in your heart. Let it flow like a river.

Let it become your strength, your guide, and your gift to the world. Amen.

 

Important Dates for the Diary

Newsletter 29th June 2025

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Homily – Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus,

Today, as a Mother Church, we celebrate with great joy the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul — two towering figures, two very different personalities, but one united mission: to proclaim Christ and lay the foundation of the early Church. For me, this feast is always a powerful reminder — not only of their greatness but also of God’s way of choosing people. God does not look for the best CV or perfect profile. He chooses and then transforms. He doesn’t call the qualified — He qualifies the called.

I’d like to begin with a memory from my village. As you know, I come from a very simple, ordinary background. In my village, there was no guarantee of work each day. Early in the morning, many of the men would gather in the public square — we called it the mandai. Like a kind of informal job market. Those who owned farmland or needed workers would come and choose from the gathered crowd. Naturally, they picked the strongest, most experienced, or the ones who looked the part. Those who didn’t look strong enough or useful were often left behind.

And in many ways, our modern world works the same way — CVs, qualifications, appearances. We are constantly filtered, judged, selected based on our external capacity. But Christianity is radically different. God’s gaze penetrates deeper. He sees the heart, the desire, the potential. And in that way, today’s feast gives us one of the most encouraging and hopeful messages of all.

Let’s look at Peter. A fisherman. Uneducated. Elderly. Lacking refinement. But with a good heart. Very spontaneous — sometimes childlike. “Lord, I will never betray you,” he says, and then a few hours later, he denies Him three times. And yet, it is this Peter that Jesus calls the Rock. Not John, not James. Peter. And He says, “On this rock I will build my Church.” That doesn’t make sense by human standards. But Jesus knew what Peter could become. And over time, Peter becomes that strong shepherd. Not because he had it all sorted, but because he stayed close to Christ.

Then there’s Paul. Almost the opposite of Peter. Educated, sharp, zealous — but also rigid, angry, and proud. Paul persecuted the Church. He literally approved of the killing of Christians. He was feared. But God met him. Jesus encountered him on the road to Damascus and turned his entire life around. The same Paul who once wanted to wipe out Christians now becomes the greatest missionary the Church has known — writing most of the New Testament and bringing the Gospel to the Gentiles.

What do we see in both? Imperfection. Struggle. Passion. And then transformation.

And so, dear friends, never underestimate what God can do with a life that is open to Him. I say this especially to young people here. You don’t have to be perfect to serve God. Just be willing. Just begin.

Even among Jesus’s chosen 12 apostles, think about it: one was a denier, one was a doubter, one was a betrayer, and the rest ran away in fear. But Jesus still built His Church with them. That’s the mystery of divine grace — He can use anyone, even me, even you.

Recently, I’ve seen something beautiful happening in our own parish — children, young parents, the elderly, teenagers — coming together, serving in small ways, but with great love. Some in gardening, some in sacristy work, some singing, some just showing up faithfully. All these small acts are not unnoticed by God. We are building our St Ann’s parish not with perfect bricks, but with willing hearts.

And of course, we know how their lives ended — Peter was crucified upside down. Paul was beheaded. They both died for Christ. Because once you know Him, once you love Him, even death becomes a joyful offering.

Let us take inspiration from them. You don’t have to be perfect. But be available. Be faithful. Stay close to Christ. And He will do wonders through you.

May Peter’s faith and Paul’s passion inspire us. May we live not out of fear or pride, but out of a desire to serve. God is not looking for stars. He is looking for lamps — to light the way for others. So let’s be one of them.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

 

Important Dates for the Diary

First Holy Communion Celebration at St Ann’s

After the 10:30 am Mass on Sunday, 15th June, the parish community gathered in the garden for our joyful Summer Barbecue Celebration. It was a wonderful time of togetherness, filled with delicious barbecue, cheerful face painting for children, and spirited singing by both our young ones and parishioners. DJ music added rhythm to the afternoon as everyone enjoyed light food, drinks, and laughter in the sun.

A heartfelt thank you to our Social Committee, led by Anne King, the Welcome Team, and the Church Maintenance Team for their dedication and hard work in making the day such a beautiful success. It was truly a celebration of community, warmth, and the joy of being one family in Christ.

Newsletter 22nd June 2025 – Corpus Christi

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Corpus Christi Sunday: United in Christ, Nourished by His Body

We joyfully celebrated the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, the heart of our Catholic faith – the Eucharist. A special congratulations to 24 children who receive their First Holy Communion at the 12 noon Mass. Their faith journey is a blessing to our parish. We thank the parents and catechists for their dedication.


Parish Life Highlights

  • Pizza and Campfire Night – Saturday, 5th July
    A fun evening for children from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Please email to confirm attendance. Future events include a Disco Night and Movie Night.
  • Next Family Mass – Sunday, 29th June at 10:30 am
    Family Mass is celebrated every last Sunday of the month. Altar servers are requested to arrive early.


Weekly Pilgrimage Devotions

As a Jubilee Year Pilgrimage Church, we offer:

  • Tuesdays:
    6:15 pm – Adoration & Confession
    7:00 pm – Holy Mass

  • Saturdays:
    11:15 am – Adoration & Confession
    12:00 noon – Holy Mass

  • Rosary Walks in Richmond Park
    Begin at the Francis of Assisi Fountain.

    • Next Dates: 5th & 19th July, 9:45 am


Baptism at St Ann’s

If you wish to baptise your child, please use the online application form (QR code available in church). Baptisms are usually held on Saturdays after the 12 noon Mass.


Support Our Parish

Set up a Standing Order and Gift Aid your donations. Forms are available in the church or via QR code.


Upcoming Events

  • 28th June at 9:45 am – Fourth Saturday Talk:
    “Breathing with Creation: Holistic Health Through Nature”

  • Young Adults Evening – 26th June at 6:30 pm, St George’s Cathedral
    With Adoration, Confession, and veneration of Blessed Carlo Acutis’ relic.

Offering Details

To contribute to the parish:
Account Name: RCAS Kingston Hill
Sort Code: 60-50-01
Account Number: 79124429
Bank: NatWest

Homily – Corpus Christi 

“For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink.” – John 6:55

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Last week, we reflected on the mystery of the Holy Trinity—the God who is love, communion, and relationship. Today, we move into another sacred mystery: Corpus Christi, the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. This solemnity is not just about remembering the Eucharist—it is about re-entering the reality of Christ’s total gift of Himself to us.

As one child once described Pentecost as “the Church’s birthday—with no cake, but lots of fire,” today, I might say: Corpus Christi is the Church’s heartbeat. The Eucharist is what gives the Church life—it is our spiritual oxygen.

St. Augustine said, “Believe what you see, see what you believe, and become what you receive.” The Eucharist is not just a symbol. It is the real presence of Jesus Christ—His Body, His Blood, His Soul, His Divinity—offered freely for the salvation of the world. “This is my body, given for you” (Luke 22:19)—not as a memory, but as a living promise.

When we come to Mass, we are invited into the Upper Room, into the Last Supper, and into Calvary. These are not events of the past—they are eternal realities. Each Eucharist is heaven touching earth.

Let us remember the two great effects of the Eucharist:

  1. It unites us to Christ – “He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me and I in him.” (John 6:56)
  2. It unites us to one another – “We, though many, are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.” (1 Corinthians 10:17)

The Eucharist is never private. It always draws us into communion—with Christ, and with one another. As Catholics, we don’t go to church just to get something. We come to be transformed, to be nourished, and to be sent out—as the final words of the Mass say: “Go and announce the Gospel of the Lord.”

Even during history’s darkest moments—the catacombs, the recusant period in England, or times of persecution—Catholics risked their lives for the Mass. They dug tunnels, hid priests, protected the Blessed Sacrament at great personal cost. Why? Because they knew that without the Eucharist, we are not truly alive.

So today, let’s ask ourselves:

  • Do I approach the Eucharist with reverence and love?
  • Do I allow it to change my life and my relationships?
  • Am I truly becoming what I receive?

Let us not just “attend” Mass. Let us live it. Let the Body of Christ feed our souls and the Blood of Christ strengthen our hearts.

Because in the Eucharist, Christ gives us everything.
Let us give ourselves back to Him—completely, joyfully, and forever.

Amen.

 

Important Dates for the Diary

15th June 2025

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Summer Barbecue & Father’s Day Celebration – 15 June 2025

On Sunday, 15th June, after the joyful celebration of the 10:30 am Mass for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity and Father’s Day, our parish family came together for a vibrant Summer Garden Barbecue Party in the church grounds.

The event was filled with joy and community spirit – children enjoyed face painting, there was singing by children and parishioners, uplifting DJ music, and a spread of light food, drinks, and delicious barbecue. The garden was alive with laughter, music, and celebration – a true sign of the warmth and unity of our parish family.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Social Committee led by Anne King, the Welcome Team, and the Church Maintenance Team for their dedication and efforts in making the day such a success.

Have a look at the beautiful moments captured below!

Offering Details

To contribute to the parish:
Account Name: RCAS Kingston Hill
Sort Code: 60-50-01
Account Number: 79124429
Bank: NatWest

Homily – Pentecost Sunday: “From Closed Doors to Open Hearts”

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Happy Pentecost! Or as a child once said, “It’s the Church’s birthday—no cake, but lots of fire!” Today, we don’t celebrate fireworks or party poppers, but something far more powerful: fire from heaven, the breath of God, shaking open locked hearts and awakening faith.

Two things stand out on Pentecost:
The birth of the Church, and the descent of the Holy Spirit—a gift Jesus had promised, saying, “I will not leave you as orphans.”

Before the Spirit Came: Confusion, Fear, and Uncertainty

Let’s look at the disciples before the Holy Spirit came.
They were good people. Faithful people. They had followed Jesus through highs and lows. They had seen miracles, shared meals, and made promises. But when the cross came, they scattered. They were afraid. Peter said, “I’m going fishing.” In other words: “I’m going back to my old life.”

Even after the Resurrection, their hearts were fragile. Jesus walked among them for 40 days—not with big speeches, but with presence, with love. He knew they needed strength not just from truth, but from tenderness. They still felt uncertain—until they did one thing that changed everything:

They came together and prayed.
With Our Lady, in the Upper Room, in unity and silence—they waited. That simple, powerful act of coming together in prayer opened the heavens.

After the Spirit Came: Clarity, Courage, and Mission

Then came the fire. Not to burn them, but to ignite them.
The same disciples who were fearful now became bold. They spoke in new tongues—not for confusion like at Babel, but for unity.
Different languages became instruments of communion, not division.
And their mission began.

So what changed?
They didn’t suddenly become smarter. They didn’t get new strategies. What they received was the Holy Spirit—the strength of God within them.

Their fear didn’t disappear, but it no longer defined them.
They still had questions, but now they had courage.
That’s the difference the Spirit makes: not a change in circumstances, but a change in character.

What About Us?

Many of us are living “pre-Pentecost lives.” We pray, we hope, but deep down, we hesitate.
We struggle with our fears, our limitations, our “I’m not enough.”
But Pentecost reminds us: you are not alone. When we come together and pray, the Spirit still descends.

Today, our children will be planting in our parish garden—an act of love, growth, and community. That’s Pentecost.
Next week, we gather for a parish celebration and barbecue—that’s Pentecost too: sharing life with joy and unity.
Whenever we forgive, speak kindly, serve quietly, pray deeply—that’s the Spirit at work.

Life Lesson: Come Together and Wait with Faith

In life, there will be moments when something dear feels far away. Loss, disappointment, or silence from heaven. But if you come together, pray sincerely, and wait in hope—the Spirit will come.
He may not come as fire, but He will come as clarity.
He may not arrive with noise, but He will fill your silence.
The Spirit does not always change our lives—but He changes us for our lives.

So let us not live closed-door faith. Let’s live open-heart Pentecost.

Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of your love.

Amen.

 

Important Dates for the Diary

Summer Barbecue Celebration – 15th June 2025

After the 10:30 am Mass on Sunday, 15th June, the parish community gathered in the garden for our joyful Summer Barbecue Celebration. It was a wonderful time of togetherness, filled with delicious barbecue, cheerful face painting for children, and spirited singing by both our young ones and parishioners. DJ music added rhythm to the afternoon as everyone enjoyed light food, drinks, and laughter in the sun.

A heartfelt thank you to our Social Committee, led by Anne King, the Welcome Team, and the Church Maintenance Team for their dedication and hard work in making the day such a beautiful success. It was truly a celebration of community, warmth, and the joy of being one family in Christ.

7th Sunday of Easter – 01st June 2025

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Pentecost Sunday – A Parish Renewed in Spirit

“Come, Holy Spirit – A Parish United in Prayer and Mission”

Happy Pentecost! As we celebrate the birth of the Church through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, we give thanks for the unity and life of our parish community.

This Sunday, we invite everyone to:

  • Join us for the 10:30 am Pentecost Mass, followed by tea and coffee in the parish garden. Children are welcome to play and connect in our Kids’ Corner.
  • Children’s Gardening Day #3 takes place immediately after Mass – encouraging young hearts to nurture creation and community.

Upcoming Events at St Ann’s

🟢 Parish Synodal Team MeetingSunday, 8 June at 3:00 pm
A vital meeting for all team members to review Lent and Easter, reflect on the Sacramental programmes, and plan for youth and parish engagement.

🟠 Father’s Day Mass & Summer Garden BarbecueSunday, 15 June
We begin with a Family Mass at 10:30 am, followed by a joyful garden party with:

  • BBQ, music, international dishes, games, and face painting.
  • All are welcome to bring a dish from your country or culture.
    Please speak to Anne King, Julissa, or Carman, or sign up at the back of the church to volunteer or contribute food.

🟣 Children’s Pizza & Campfire EveningSaturday, 5 July (5:30 – 8:30 pm)
A fun evening of food, music, and community spirit for all kids.
Parents, please confirm attendance by emailing: kingstonhill@rcaos.org.uk

Gratitude & Highlights

  • Thank you to the Ferncombe family for sponsoring this week’s altar flowers in memory of Thomas Ferncombe RIP on his Month’s Mind.
  • Our thanks to the McCormack family, Lucas, and Liam for their generous support with outdoor furniture and electrical works.
  • Welcome to Year One pupils from Holy Cross School, who visited our parish and spent time in prayer and exploration around the church and gardens.

Parish Projects & Maintenance

Our Church Maintenance Team is prioritising the installation of double glazing for the presbytery, scheduled for autumn. This will reduce winter heating costs and improve energy efficiency. Thank you for your continued support.

Offering Details

To contribute to the parish:
Account Name: RCAS Kingston Hill
Sort Code: 60-50-01
Account Number: 79124429
Bank: NatWest

Homily – Pentecost Sunday: “From Closed Doors to Open Hearts”

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Happy Pentecost! Or as a child once said, “It’s the Church’s birthday—no cake, but lots of fire!” Today, we don’t celebrate fireworks or party poppers, but something far more powerful: fire from heaven, the breath of God, shaking open locked hearts and awakening faith.

Two things stand out on Pentecost:
The birth of the Church, and the descent of the Holy Spirit—a gift Jesus had promised, saying, “I will not leave you as orphans.”

Before the Spirit Came: Confusion, Fear, and Uncertainty

Let’s look at the disciples before the Holy Spirit came.
They were good people. Faithful people. They had followed Jesus through highs and lows. They had seen miracles, shared meals, and made promises. But when the cross came, they scattered. They were afraid. Peter said, “I’m going fishing.” In other words: “I’m going back to my old life.”

Even after the Resurrection, their hearts were fragile. Jesus walked among them for 40 days—not with big speeches, but with presence, with love. He knew they needed strength not just from truth, but from tenderness. They still felt uncertain—until they did one thing that changed everything:

They came together and prayed.
With Our Lady, in the Upper Room, in unity and silence—they waited. That simple, powerful act of coming together in prayer opened the heavens.

After the Spirit Came: Clarity, Courage, and Mission

Then came the fire. Not to burn them, but to ignite them.
The same disciples who were fearful now became bold. They spoke in new tongues—not for confusion like at Babel, but for unity.
Different languages became instruments of communion, not division.
And their mission began.

So what changed?
They didn’t suddenly become smarter. They didn’t get new strategies. What they received was the Holy Spirit—the strength of God within them.

Their fear didn’t disappear, but it no longer defined them.
They still had questions, but now they had courage.
That’s the difference the Spirit makes: not a change in circumstances, but a change in character.

What About Us?

Many of us are living “pre-Pentecost lives.” We pray, we hope, but deep down, we hesitate.
We struggle with our fears, our limitations, our “I’m not enough.”
But Pentecost reminds us: you are not alone. When we come together and pray, the Spirit still descends.

Today, our children will be planting in our parish garden—an act of love, growth, and community. That’s Pentecost.
Next week, we gather for a parish celebration and barbecue—that’s Pentecost too: sharing life with joy and unity.
Whenever we forgive, speak kindly, serve quietly, pray deeply—that’s the Spirit at work.

Life Lesson: Come Together and Wait with Faith

In life, there will be moments when something dear feels far away. Loss, disappointment, or silence from heaven. But if you come together, pray sincerely, and wait in hope—the Spirit will come.
He may not come as fire, but He will come as clarity.
He may not arrive with noise, but He will fill your silence.
The Spirit does not always change our lives—but He changes us for our lives.

So let us not live closed-door faith. Let’s live open-heart Pentecost.

Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of your love.

Amen.

 

Important Dates for the Diary

Holy Cross School Visit

A Journey of Wonder, Prayer, and Discovery

This past week, the children of Year 1 from Holy Cross School visited St. Ann’s Catholic Church for a special time of learning, prayer, and exploration.

The visit began at the sanctuary, where the children were invited to ring the sanctuary bell, speak over the church mics — unique and cherished experience that filled the church with joyful sounds and marked the beginning of their sacred journey. They also drew the church inner side while they waited for the other batches.

Fr. James Raj warmly welcomed the children and spoke gently about the key elements of the church: the altar, the tabernacle, the crucifix, statues and the role of prayer in our lives. The children listened attentively and asked thoughtful questions, showing genuine curiosity and faith.

The group then moved outside to the Francis of Assisi Fountain, where they reflected on the beauty of nature and prayed together, thanking God for creation. They continued to the St. Mary’s Prayer Garden, where they shared a moment of peace and offered short intercessory prayers for their families, school, and community.

Each child was given a small holy Jesus toy to remember their visit and the special time they spent in God’s house.

We thank the teachers and staff of Holy Cross School for their dedication and preparation. The children brought life and light to our parish, and it was a joy to host them. We look forward to more visits in the future.

7th Sunday of Easter – 01st June 2025

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Seventh Sunday of Easter – Sunday 1st June 2025

Theme: “That they may all be one” – Living Christ’s Prayer for Unity
“Unity is not uniformity; it is the fruit of love, patience, and shared purpose in Christ.”


🔔 Upcoming Highlights at St Ann’s – June 2025

🌿 Sunday, 8 June – Children’s Gardening Day (Session 3)

After the 10:30 am Mass, children are warmly invited to participate in our third parish gardening session. Gardening kits and snacks provided. A beautiful way to nurture faith and creation together!

🔧 Sunday, 8 June – 3:00 PM – Parish Synodal Team Meeting

All members are reminded to gather in the parish hall for a focused session on planning and evaluating our parish journey.

🎉 Sunday, 15 June – Father’s Day Mass & Summer Garden Party

Join us for a special Mass of thanksgiving at 10:30 am followed by:

  • International barbecue
  • Face painting and children’s games
  • Community fellowship in the garden

Bring a dish to share – sign-up sheets are at the back of the church! Speak to Anne King, Julissa, or Carman for more info.

🍕 Saturday, 5 July – Pizza & Campfire Evening for Children

5:30–8:30 PM – Music, laughter, food and friends! Parents, please email kingstonhill@rcaos.org.uk to confirm attendance.


Jubilee 2025: Weekly Pilgrimage Devotions

As a Pilgrimage Church for the Jubilee Year, we invite everyone to encounter the Lord through:

Every Tuesday:

  • 6:15 PM Adoration & Confession
  • 7:00 PM Holy Mass

Every Saturday:

  • 11:15 AM Adoration & Confession
  • 12:00 Noon Holy Mass

Rosary Walks in Richmond Park (starting at St Francis Fountain):

  • Saturday, 7 June – 9:45 AM
  • Saturday, 21 June – 9:45 AM

Offering Details

To contribute to the parish:
Account Name: RCAS Kingston Hill
Sort Code: 60-50-01
Account Number: 79124429
Bank: NatWest

 

Homily – Seventh Sunday of Easter, Year C

“That They May Be One” (John 17:20–26)

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today we are invited to listen in on Jesus’ prayer — not a sermon, not a parable, but a prayer to His Father. As He prepares to return to the Father, He lifts His eyes to heaven and prays:

“I pray not only for these but also for those who will believe in me through their word… that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you.” (John 17:20–21)

This is Jesus’ final prayer before His passion — and He prays for unity. Not for power or prestige. But that we — His disciples, His Church — may be one. One in heart, one in spirit, one in mission.

This unity has two dimensions.

First, it is vertical — our union with God. Throughout His life, Jesus often withdrew to pray. At the beginning of His ministry, in moments of decision, before the Cross — always, He turned to the Father. In these forty days after the Resurrection, He stays close to the disciples — not with grand teachings, but by His presence, strengthening them. He promises, “I will not leave you orphans” (John 14:18). And He promises the Holy Spirit — the Advocate — to guide and strengthen them.

Second, this unity is horizontal — our communion with one another.

“May they be brought to complete unity so that the world may know that you sent me.” (John 17:23)

Our unity is the most powerful witness to the world that Jesus is alive. And unity is not about uniformity — we may differ in age, culture, background — but our oneness in Christ is what binds us. As St. Paul reminds us,

“There is one body and one Spirit… one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all.” (Ephesians 4:4–6)

Dear friends, true unity doesn’t happen automatically. It takes prayer, humility, and a shared purpose. This is what we see in the Acts of the Apostles:

“All these were constantly devoting themselves to prayer, together with Mary, the mother of Jesus…” (Acts 1:14)

That Upper Room became a place of unity — and because of that, it became the place of Pentecost. It is when we come together — despite our wounds and differences — that the Holy Spirit descends.

In our own parish journey, this is also our calling. In June, we have our Confirmation, First Holy Communion, Gardening Day, Parish Synodal Meeting, and the Parish Summer Celebration on Father’s Day. These are not just events — they are invitations to communion. Moments where we go beyond “me” and live as “we”.

Let us not reduce our parish to a building or a routine. Let us make it a true community of prayer, a place of belonging, a witness of love.

And as Jesus prayed for us — we too must pray for one another. That we may be one — in Christ, through the Spirit, for the glory of the Father.

So, as we wait for Pentecost, let us be people who draw strength from God and reflect unity with others — vertically and horizontally.

May the love with which the Father loved the Son be in us too, and may Christ dwell within us always.
Amen.

 

Important Dates for the Diary

6th Sunday of Easter – 25th May 2025

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Parish News – Sunday 25 May 2025

Sacrament of Confirmation – Congratulations!

This weekend, we joyfully celebrated the Confirmation of seven of our young parishioners. We offer them our heartfelt congratulations and pray that the Holy Spirit may continue to guide and strengthen them.
We are also deeply grateful to Canon Gerard Bradley, who presided over the Mass and shared his support and pastoral care with our community.

Upcoming Events

  • Rosary Walk to Richmond Park – Friday 7 June & Friday 21 June at 9:45 AM. We begin with prayer at the Francis of Assisi Fountain.
  • Summer Celebration & Father’s Day – Sunday 15 June after the 10:30 AM Mass. Join us in the garden for a parish barbecue with food, music, and games.
  • Would you like to share a dish from your culture? Please speak to Anne King, Julissa, or Carman or sign up at the back of the church.

Pilgrimage Devotions – Weekly at St. Ann’s

  • Tuesdays: 6:15 PM – Adoration & Confession, 7:00 PM – Holy Mass
  • Saturdays: 11:15 AM – Adoration & Confession, 12:00 Noon – Holy Mass

Parish Gardening Teams

Our garden is now divided into three zones:

  1. St. Francis Garden (front area)
  2. St. Mary’s Garden (right side lawn)
  3. St. Ann’s Front Garden
    If you would like to help care for one of these gardens, please contact Fr. James.

Gratitude

  • Thank you to Holy Cross School Year 3 for visiting and praying with us.
  • Special thanks to our garden bench sponsors and all who contributed to creating peaceful, sacred spaces on our grounds.

Offering Details

To contribute to the parish:
Account Name: RCAS Kingston Hill
Sort Code: 60-50-01
Account Number: 79124429
Bank: NatWest

 

 

Important Dates for the Diary