THIS SUNDAY: Where does authority come from? Why is one man regarded as a prophet, and another as a lunatic, and a third as a hypocrite? Jesus startles the crowds with a “new teaching” today, but what amazes them so much is not the message but the authority behind it: they are convinced because what he does somehow adds credibility to what he says. It‘s the old situation that we are all familiar with – we look through words to see the actions, which show us the real message. The scribes did not heal or work miracles, but simply talked about God. Jesus talks about the Kingdom of God, but also shows the people what it is – a Kingdom where all that damages human happiness is abolished. The other side to this is that we must listen to a prophet or teacher when they are backed by such authority; we may not “harden our hearts” and ignore the message when we have recognised that the messenger is sent by God. This is the hard part, because it demands that we too show, by our actions, that we have heard.

THE CRIB: The crib comes down after this weekend having remaining in view for these six weeks since Christmas. A huge thank you for your kindness this year to the homeless of our own city as well as the refugee looking for help and shelter. We’ve sent off £300 gathered from your offerings since Christmas. As we have been drawn to this holy family of refugees in the crib, so you have also reached out to the Christ hidden in the poor and the homeless of today.

FIRST COMMUNION 2012: The preparation sessions for our youngsters pick up again from this coming Wednesday, 1 February.  the children should have their books in school already, but if they haven’t, parents are ask to make sure you send them in, please.

CELEBRATION OF MARRIAGE: The Bishop invites all married couples to join him as part of National Marriage Week on Saturday 11 February in the Cathedral for Mass at 12noon. It’s a wonderful gathering from across our diocese. Do go along and celebrate the beautiful state of married life with him. Poster on the board and copies for you to take away from the narthex. If you are celebrating a significant anniversary this year (25th, 30th, 35th, 40th, 45th, 50th, 55th, 60th, 65th…) please do let Fr Christopher know that he can ensure you receive your individual invitations from the bishop.

EDUCATION SUNDAY: Next Sunday we ‘celebrate’ Education Sunday. Our Catholic schools and colleges are a great treasure. This treasure has been given to us and we must ensure that we hand it on to future generations. The purpose of our Catholic schools is to proclaim the Gospel. Education Sunday seeks to celebrate the tremendous work that takes place in our Catholic Schools, but also to pray that they may be places where Christ is known and where our dignity, our value and our worth are recognised. The Church has this great gift of education to offer our world and through the work of our schools that treasure is handed on. The retiring collection next Sunday goes to support the Catholic Education Service, working with our Bishops and our schools to keep Catholic Education on the public agenda. Please support Catholic education as generously as you can next weekend for through your giving our schools are supported and nurtured.

PARISH FORUM GROUP meets again on Wednesday 8 February at 7.45pm in the presbytery.

GROWING IN CONFIDENCE IN OUR FAITH IN 2012: There will be one or two opportunities for us, as a parish community, to explore our faith, to ask questions about our faith, and grow in our confidence to live and proclaim our faith throughout this year. The spring will offer us chance to come together in an informal way to ask simple questions and find simple answers. There’s also something planned for the autumn to enable us, as a parish community, to take up the bishop’s invitation to explore to teachings of the Vatican Council. Watch this space and get ready to respond, maybe, to the invitations on offer.

CONGRATULATIONS AND WELCOME to Maddison Pippa Lewis who was baptised last weekend and also to Jeremiah O’Connor who was also baptised last Sunday. We congratulate them both and also their families.

PARISH LITURGY GROUP: Fr Christopher is pulling together all those with particular responsibilities for the liturgical side of our parish as well as those who coordinate the various liturgical ministries. This gathering will look at ensuring that each of our ministers is formed and supported, as well as providing a real opportunity to reflect upon what we do as a community of prayer. The meeting aims, also, at allowing each of those coordinators to communicate with one another and facilitate a planning of what takes place here when it comes to our prayer. They meet next on Tuesday 6 March at 7.00pm in the presbytery.

THE SEASON OF LENT: This important season of preparation looms on the liturgical horizon even though Christmas is only just behind us. We begin the Lenten season on Wednesday 22 February with our celebration of Ash Wednesday. As a season of prayer there will, of course, be opportunities for us to deepen our prayer; as a season of penance there will extra opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation; and as a season of charity there will the usual Lenten opportunities to reach out to those who hunger and thirst in our world through our fasting and our almsgiving. Watch this space!

CALLED TO BE…18 February 2012 at Sacred Heart, Grange Court Road, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol from 7.00 pm to 8.30 pm. This is an opportunity for adults who work with the young people in our parishes to shape youth ministry. There is a chance to meet our Youth Ministry Coordinator, Dave Wheat, and have a say on the future. This is one of five events taking place in every county in our diocese in January and February.

CANDLEMAS: The beautiful celebration of the presentation begins with the blessing of candles. Mass will be celebrated in the evening on Thursday so do come and celebrate that fortieth day here in Church. The blessing of throats on St Blaise’s day will take place on the Friday morning after Mass.

THIS SUNDAY: Where does Jesus begin his ministry? Where John the Baptist left off – preaching a message of repentance, of change, to welcome the new Kingdom of God. There is a simplicity about this message, which is not compromised by anything – today’s Gospel has these simple words from Jesus, and then the story of his calling more disciples to follow him and share in the work of spreading this message. Repentance has had something of a bad press – we tend to think of it as an old-fashioned concept. But every age needs to hear this call: to look at what we do and say and assume, and realise that there are such things as right and wrong, and that sometimes we follow the wrong path. To follow Jesus, and to accept the Kingdom of God, demands that we make a radical choice, which might well change our lives.

THE CRIB: Do go and spend a little time at the crib which remains in place until 2 February, most especially with loved ones and family. We allow the loving touch of God precisely into the ordinariness of our lives so that we might know he is near to us in all that we do and all we go through in life. The little basket remains there, also, for you crib offerings for the homeless and the refugee in Bristol. You’ve already raised around £250 for the work done down at St Nick’s in Lawford’s Gate – thank you.

FIRST COMMUNION 2012: The preparation sessions for our youngsters pick up again from this coming Wednesday, 25 January. Parents are asked to ensure that the children bring their work books into school with them this week.

CELEBRATION OF MARRIAGE: The Bishop invites all married couples to join him as part of National Marriage Week on Saturday 11 February in the Cathedral for Mass at 12noon. It’s a wonderful gathering from across our diocese. Do go along and celebrate the beautiful state of married life with him. Poster on the board and copies for you to take away from the narthex. If you are celebrating a significant anniversary this year (25th, 30th, 35th, 40th, 45th, 50th, 55th, 60th, 65th…) please do let Fr Christopher know that he can ensure you receive your individual invitations from the bishop.

FIFTY YEARS ON – VATICAN II: Responding to our Bishop’s pastoral letter at the beginning of the year and his invitation to reflect upon the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, the next in our series of reflections on the Council is on Tuesday 24 January 2012 at 7.30pm (that’s this Tuesday evening). Fr Timothy Menezes will be leading our consideration upon Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Council’s document on the liturgy. This fantastic series of talks Opening the Windows offers us a simple route into re-introducing ourselves to the fruits of the Second Vatican Council. Do go along if you can. It is free, open to everyone, and there’s plenty of parking, too. Downloads on diocesan website.

PARISH FORUM GROUP meets again on Wednesday 8 February at 7.45pm in the presbytery.

GROWING IN CONFIDENCE IN OUR FAITH IN 2012: There will be one or two opportunities for us, as a parish community, to explore our faith, to ask questions about our faith, and grow in our confidence to live and proclaim our faith throughout this year. The spring will offer us chance to come together in an informal way to ask simple questions and find simple answers. There’s also something planned for the autumn to enable us, as a parish community, to take up the bishop’s invitation to explore to teachings of the Vatican Council. Watch this space and get ready to respond, maybe, to the invitations on offer.

FOR OUR PRAYERS: We remember Ronald O’Neil who died recently and whose funeral will take place on Friday 27 January at 10.30am here in St Bernadette’s. We remember also Andrea Bongiovanni who died during this last week and whose funeral will take place this coming Wednesday – 25 January – at 3.00pm. We remember them and their families at this sad time. May they rest in peace.

PARISH LITURGY GROUP: Fr Christopher is pulling together all those with particular responsibilities for the liturgical side of our parish as well as those who coordinate the various liturgical ministries. This gathering will look at ensuring that each of our ministers is formed and supported, as well as providing a real opportunity to reflect upon what we do as a community of prayer. The meeting aims, also, at allowing each of those coordinators to communicate with one another and facilitate a planning of what takes place here when it comes to our prayer. They meet next on Tuesday 6 March at 7.00pm in the presbytery.

ST BRENDAN’S OPEN EVENING: Thursday 9 February from 6.00pm until 9.00pm. Full details on the notice board in the narthex.

OUR PRIMARY SCHOOL: We keep the community of our primary school very much in our prayers over this coming week as they welcome Ofsted into school for their inspection. This is an anxious time, of course, for staff and pupils but we pray that the good work and the enthusiasm for care will shine through.

THE SEASON OF LENT: This important season of preparation looms on the liturgical horizon even though Christmas is only just behind us. We begin the Lenten season on Wednesday 22 February with our celebration of Ash Wednesday. As a season of prayer there will, of course, be opportunities for us to deepen our prayer; as a season of penance there will extra opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation; and as a season of charity there will the usual Lenten opportunities to reach out to those who hunger and thirst in our world through our fasting and our almsgiving. Watch this space!

CALLED TO BE…18 February 2012 at Sacred Heart, Grange Court Road, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol from 7.00 pm to 8.30 pm. This is an opportunity for adults who work with the young people in our parishes to shape youth ministry. There is a chance to meet our Youth Ministry Coordinator, Dave Wheat, and have a say on the future. This is one of five events taking place in every county in our diocese in January and February.

THIS SUNDAY: What does it mean to be a follower of the Lord Jesus? Surely to listen and hear his voice, and to go where he leads us. Today, as we enter the “ordinary” season of the year, we begin our story of Jesus’ life and ministry with the calling of the first disciples. John fulfils his ministry – pointing to the Lamb of God – and the disciples follow where he points. His word to them is simple and inviting: “Come and see.” This echoes the calling of Samuel – a simple call, by name, which Samuel does not understand: discipleship is about trust, which Samuel shows simply by saying “Speak, Lord; your servant is listening. The Psalm also underlines this, as we (the disciples of the Lord) sing together: “Here I am, Lord! I come to do your will.” We hear his call, and we freely go to him, to listen again to the words of the Master.

ARCHBISHOP NICOLA GIRASOLI: We welcome to our parish this coming Sunday, Archbishop Girasoli who is en route from Zambia to his new posting in the beautiful region of the West Indies. He flies on Monday to take up his new responsibilities as representative of the Holy Father to the twelve states around Trinidad and Tobago. As stops over in the UK and has graciously accepted an invitation to spend a little time with us this Sunday. As we welcome him back to Whitchurch, we assure him of our continued prayer for all he does to represent the Church and its mission in what he does. Do come and say ‘hello’ to him this weekend.

THE CRIB: As we move into Ordinary Time, our church begins to be cleared of the decoration from Christmas. Over in the Lady Chapel, however, you will find that familiar scene of the crib which remains in place until 2 February. Do go and spend a little time at the crib, most especially with loved ones and family. We allow the loving touch of God precisely into the ordinariness of our lives so that we might know he is near to us in all that we do and all we go through in life. The little basket remains there, also, for you crib offerings for the homeless and the refugee in Bristol.

FIRST COMMUNION 2012: We continue to pray for: Graziella Bennett, Kieran Parsons, Joshua Sims, Evie Nathasingh, Billy Jackson, Divya Rajesh, Megan Sanders, Maisie Sanders, Tommy Holland, William Bennett, Joseph Bennett, Georgina Cox, Isabelle O’Toole, Shane Parry, Tore Popek, Calum Chilcott, Callum Witts, and Archie Daniels. The preparation sessions for our youngsters picks up again from Wednesday 25 January. There is a parents’ meeting this coming Thursday – 19 January – at 7.00pm in the Church. Please do make a note of the date.

CELEBRATION OF MARRIAGE: Although it seems some time away, the Bishop invites all married couples to join him as part of National Marriage Week on Saturday 11 February in the Cathedral for Mass at 12noon. It’s a wonderful gathering from across our diocese. Do go along and celebrate the beautiful state of married life with him. Poster on the board and copies for you to take away from the narthex. If you are celebrating a significant anniversary this year (25th, 30th, 35th, 40th, 45th, 50th, 55th, 60th, 65th…) please do let Fr Christopher know that he can ensure you receive your individual invitations from the bishop.

FIFTY YEARS ON – VATICAN II: Responding to our Bishop’s pastoral letter last weekend and his invitation to listen to the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, the next in our series of reflections on the Council is on Tuesday 24 January 2012 at 7.30pm. Fr Timothy Menezes will be leading our consideration upon Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Council’s document on the liturgy. This fantastic series of talks Opening the Windows offers us a simple route into re-introducing ourselves to the fruits of the Second Vatican Council. Do go along if you can. It is free, open to everyone, and there’s plenty of parking, too. Downloads on diocesan website.

PARISH FORUM GROUP meets again on Wednesday 8 February at 7.45pm in the presbytery.

GROWING IN CONFIDENCE IN OUR FAITH IN 2012: There will be one or two opportunities for us, as a parish community, to explore our faith, to ask questions about our faith, and grow in our confidence to live and proclaim our faith throughout this year. The spring will offer us chance to come together in an informal way to ask simple questions and find simple answers. There’s also something planned for the autumn to enable us, as a parish community, to take up the bishop’s invitation to explore to teachings of the Vatican Council. Watch this space and get ready to respond, maybe, to the invitations on offer.

FOR OUR PRAYERS: We keep in our prayers Raymond Balson who died recently and whose funeral takes place on January 19, and also Daniel Fenlon who died in Thailand just before Christmas, aged 25.  Daniel’s funeral took place this last Friday. We also remember Ronald O’Neil who died suddenly before last weekend and whose funeral will take place on Friday 27 January here in St Bernadette’s. We remember them and their families at this sad time. May they rest in peace.

PARISH LITURGY GROUP: Fr Christopher is pulling together all those with particular responsibilities for the liturgical side of our parish and those who coordinate the various liturgical ministries. This gathering will look at ensuring that each of our ministers is formed and supported, as well as providing a real opportunity to reflect upon what we do as a community of prayer. The meeting aims, also, at allowing each of those coordinators to communicate with one another and facilitate a planning of what takes place here when it comes to our prayer.

ST BRENDAN’S OPEN EVENING: Thursday 9 February from 6.00pm until 9.00pm. Full details on the notice board in the narthex.

MISSING BAMBINO FROM CHRISTMAS: If you have accidentally picked up someone’s figure of the baby Jesus from midnight Mass this Christmas, please can you let FrC have it so that it can be reunited with someone’s remaining figures.

THIS SUNDAY: In the East, this Season of Christmas is called the “Time of Manifestation”, or Showing. Today is the ‘Feast of the Manifestation’, or the Showing of the Saviour to the whole world, to all nations. In the wise men who travel from the East, we see all the nations other than the people of Israel being welcomed at the New Temple of the New Covenant – the new born child in the manger. A look at the Psalm response shows this: “All nations shall fall prostrate before you, O Lord.” The same is true of the key word in the second reading: “Revelation”. Remember that for the people of Israel this was to be their Messiah, come to restore their fortunes. By this feast, we proclaim God’s plan was to extend his salvation to men and women of every nation, of every time and every place – including us. In many ways this is our Christmas Feast, when we celebrate the Good News of the Saviour’s birth revealed at last to us.

THE 12 DAYS: A beautiful book of reflections composed by folk within our diocesan community is still available for you to pick up from Mass this weekend. As we celebrate this wonderful feast of the Epiphany, there is still chance for us to gaze into the Christmas mystery so as to deepen our awareness of the love of God for us. Do pick up what copies are left by the crib, joining the Magi in their adoration of the Light to the nations.

THE CRIB: Over in the Lady Chapel you will find that familiar scene which draws us ever deeper into the story of God’s unconditional love for us, and reminds us that God is near. Do go and spend a little time at the crib, most especially with loved ones and family. Come close to the Christ who came to bring us joy; bring him your selves and your lives, and allow him to bring himself to you.

YOUR CRIB OFFERINGS: As usual, there is a little basket next to the crib for your offerings. This year, our crib offerings will go in support of the work done at St Nick’s, Lawford’s Gate, for the homeless and the refugee.  Your gifts across Christmas will help those who turn to them for help in their need.

FIRST COMMUNION 2012: We welcome to Mass this Sunday those journeying towards their First Holy Communion this summer. They come to present themselves to us, as their family of faith, asking us to support them in their journey of discovery. They are presented with their books that will unfold for them the mystery of our faith in the Eucharist. We pray for: Graziella Bennett, Kieran Parsons, Joshua Sims, Evie Nathasingh, Billy Jackson, Divya Rajesh, Megan Sanders, Maisie Sanders, Tommy Holland, William Bennett, Joseph Bennett, Georgina Cox, Isabelle O’Toole, Shane Parry, Tore Popek, Calum Chilcott, Callum Witts, and Archie Daniels. The preparation sessions for our youngsters picks up again from Wednesday 25 January. There is a parents’ meeting on Thursday 19 January at 7.00pm in the Church. Please do make a note of the date.

CELEBRATION OF MARRIAGE: Although it seems some time away, the Bishop invites all married couples to join him as part of National Marriage Week on Saturday 11 February in the Cathedral for Mass at 12noon. It’s a wonderful gathering from across our diocese. Do go along and celebrate the beautiful state of married life with him. Poster on the board and copies for you to take away from the narthex. If you are celebrating a significant anniversary this year (25^th, 30^th, 35^th, 40^th, 45^th, 50^th, 55^th, 60^th, 65^th…) please do let Fr Christopher know that he can ensure you receive your individual invitations from the bishop.

FIFTY YEARS ON – VATICAN II: Responding to our Bishop’s pastoral letter last weekend and his invitation to listen to the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, the next in our series of reflections on the Council is on Tuesday 24 January 2012 at 7.30pm. Fr Timothy Menezes will be leading our consideration upon Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Council’s document on the liturgy. This fantastic series of talks Opening the Windows offers us a simple route into re-introducing ourselves to the fruits of the Second Vatican Council. Do go along if you can. It is free, open to everyone, and there’s plenty of parking, too. Downloads on diocesan website.

AN ITALIAN FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY – The ITALIAN CONSULAR AGENCY in Bristol is being re-opened at the start of this New Year. There will be a reception to welcome this opening this Sunday afternoon, at St Bernadette’s, Wells Road, Whitchurch, Bristol. After the celebration of Mass (in Italian) for the Epiphany at 5.30pm,  there will be a short presentation informing you of the services that the agency will be able to offer. There will be some light refreshments, an opportunity to meet friends, as well as have your questions answered. All are most welcome. Please pass the word around and encourage your Italian friends and family to come along…and come, even if you are not Italian!

PARISH FORUM GROUP meets again on Wednesday 8 February at 7.45pm in the presbytery.

ARCHBISHOP NICOLA GIRASOLI: Our friend in Zambia is to take up a new position later this month. He bids farewell to Zambia and Malawi and en route to his new post he stops in the UK for two nights. He will come to celebrate Mass with us here in Whitchurch on next Sunday – 15 January - at 10.30am. Do come and make him welcome.

GROWING IN CONFIDENCE IN OUR FAITH IN 2012: There will be one or two opportunities for us, as a parish community, to explore our faith, to ask questions about our faith, and grow in our confidence to live and proclaim our faith throughout this year. The spring will offer us chance to come together in an informal way to ask simple questions and find simple answers. There’s also something planned for the autumn to enable us, as a parish community, to take up the bishop’s invitation to explore to teachings of the Vatican Council. Watch this space and get ready to respond, maybe, to the invitations on offer.

FOR OUR PRAYERS: We keep in our prayers Raymond Balson who died during this last week and who’s funeral takes place on January 19^th, and also Daniel Fenlon who died in Thailand just before Christmas, aged 25. We remember them and their families at this sad time. May they rest in peace.

VESPERS FOR NEW YEARS DAY: There will be a celebration of Evening Prayer in Church at 4.00pm to welcome in the New Year next Sunday. Please do come along if you can – it’s always a wonderful occasion.

CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR THE HOMELESS: Thank you for your kindness and your thoughtfulness for those less fortunate this Christmas through your Christmas gifts to the guests at Julian Trust. They were taken down during the week and left in readiness for this weekend.

BLESSING OF THE BAMBINO: If you are bringing the baby Jesus from your cribs at home to Mass over the Christmas weekend, please place them beneath the altar for them to be blessed. Seeking God’s blessing, we pray that his peace may rest upon us and stay with us in our homes.

THE 12 DAYS: A beautiful book of reflections composed by folk within our diocesan community is available for you to pick up from Mass this weekend. It is designed for you to make something of each day of this Christmas season, from Christmas Day to the Epiphany. Use it as part of your day, gazing into the crib, and allow this Christmas mystery to deepen your awareness of the love of God for you. They have also been recorded as podcasts via cliftondiocese.com so do tune in each day.

CHRISTMAS TREE: The decorated and illuminated tree will be blessed at the Vigil Mass on Christmas Eve.

THIS YEAR’S CRIB: Over in the Lady Chapel you will find a new stable and a new set of Crib figures. These are Fr Christopher’s Christmas gifts to our parish. The figures are a simple, traditional set but, nevertheless, they draw us ever deeper into the story of God’s unconditional love for us and, hopefully, this image of a divine encounter of love is something our parish will be able to enjoy for many years to come.  Do go and spend a little time at the crib, most especially with loved ones and family. Come close to the Christ who came to bring us joy; bring him your selves and your lives, and allow him to bring himself to you.

CRIB OFFERINGS: As usual, there is a little basket next to the crib for your offerings. This year, our crib offerings will go in support of the work done at St Nick’s, Lawford’s Gate for the homeless and the refugee.  Your gifts across Christmas will help those who turn to them for help in their need.

FIRST COMMUNION 2012: We look forward to welcoming them at Mass in January for their Enrolment into the next leg of the preparation for First Communion on Sunday 8 January ~ the Epiphany ~ at 10.30am.

CELEBRATION OF MARRIAGE: Although it seems some time away, the Bishop invites all married couples to join him as part of National Marriage Week on Saturday 11 February in the Cathedral for Mass at 12noon. It’s a wonderful gathering from across our diocese. Do go along and celebrate the beautiful state of married life with him. Poster on the board and copies for you to take away from the narthex.

200 CLUB MEMBERSHIP: Subscriptions for 2012 are due soon. Look out for your membership letter. Your membership supports our parish in such real ways and, if you haven’t got a number, have a word with Colette and sign up before the end of this December. Congratulations to Carmel Allfree who picks up the December £25 monthly cheque.

FIFTY YEARS ON – VATICAN II: This next date for your diaries ready for the New Year – Tuesday 24 January 2012 at 7.30pm. Fr Timothy Menezes will be leading our reflection upon Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Council’s document on the liturgy. This fantastic series of talks Opening the Windows offers us a simple route into re-introducing ourselves to the fruits of the Second Vatican Council. Do go along if you can. It is free, open to everyone, and there’s plenty of parking, too. Downloads on diocesan website.

ITALIAN CONSULAR AGENCY in Bristol is being re-opened at the start of 2012. There will be a reception to welcome this opening on Sunday, 8 January 2012, at Saint Bernadette’s, Wells Road, Whitchurch, Bristol. After the celebration of Mass (in Italian) for the Epiphany at 5.30pm,  there will be a short presentation informing you of the services that the agency will be able to offer. There will be some light refreshments, an opportunity to meet friends, as well as have your questions answered. All are most welcome. Please pass the word around and encourage your Italian friends and family to come along…and come, even if you are not Italian!

FR CHRISTOPHER wishes you – Wesolych Swiat Bozego Narodzenia,  Joyeux Noel – Beannachtaí na Nollag – kristumas puthuvalsara āshamsakal – Buon Natale – Feliz Natal – Feliz Navidad – Maligayang pasko – Kellemes karácsonyt – a very happy and holy Christmas to you all! May the Christ child of Bethlehem draw you ever nearer in love of him this Christmas so that his peace, his love, and his joy may find a home in you.

THIS SUNDAY: Here we enter a new stage of Advent: having spent so much time on the Second Coming, now we look back, to remember the details of the Lord’s First Coming. Today we focus on the character of Mary, and hear of the angel Gabriel being sent to her, to invite her to take her part in the mystery of the Incarnation, “the revelation of the mystery kept secret for endless ages”. This mystery springs from the House of David, and so we lead into the Gospel by hearing of the establishing of that house. An interesting idea is that the first reading talks of David wishing to build a house for the Lord; through the prophet he is told not of the house that he would build, but the House which is his line: eventually, in Mary (betrothed to Joseph) the House of David does itself become the house of the Lord, the womb wherein he has a dwelling place.

RETIRING COLLECTION this Sunday morning (only): The Flower Ladies are seeking your help and support with their Christmas flower collection. Your support enables them to make our Church look so beautiful and stunning for the Christmas feasts. Thanks to the Saturday evening ‘crew’ for your kindness last weekend.

FAMILY CRIB SERVICE: This Sunday afternoon, we gather with the children of our parish to begin to re-trace that journey to Bethlehem and reflect upon the beauty of the Christmas story. The children are invited to come dressed as one of the characters of the nativity to help focus our reflection upon the people who responded to the invitation to welcome Christ into our world. All are most welcome and we begin at 3.30pm.

BLESSING OF THE BAMBINO: If you would like to bring into Mass over the Christmas weekend the bambino from your crib at home, please place them beneath the altar at which ever Mass you come to over the Christmas weekend. Seeking God’s blessing, we pray that his peace may rest upon us and in our homes.

CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR THE HOMELESS: You’ve been great in previous years wrapping socks, jumpers, toiletries and chocolates for the homeless at the Julian Trust shelter. Please leave your gifts in the Lady Chapel.

CHRISTMAS CONFESSIONS: There will be the usual Saturday morning session of Confessions Christmas Eve. On Tuesday 20 December, there will be a couple of priests hearing confessions from 7.00pm – 8.30pm. Then on Thursday 22 December, an opportunity from 10am – 10.45am. Make room for the Lord this Advent!

BIG CLEAN FOR CHRISTMAS: On Wednesday 21 December from 10am onwards, willing volunteers are needed just to get the Church ready for the Christmas weekend. If you can spare a little time along with a duster and a brush, just turn up for half an hour or so and lend a hand. Many hands make light of the work.

A CHRISTMAS WELCOME AND OUT-REACH: There’s still time to take those postcards away with you and hand them around. Use this Christmas as an invitation to folk who may have lost touch with Church, and bring them home for Christmas.

CHRISTMAS TREE: The decorated and illuminated tree will be blessed at the Vigil Mass on Christmas Eve.

CRIB OFFERINGS: As usual, there will be a little basket next to the crib for your offerings. This year, our crib offerings will go in support of the work done at St Nick’s, Lawford’s Gate for the homeless and the refugee.

CHRISTMAS MASSES: It’ll be great to see you sometime over this Christmas weekend. Do make note of the times. You have them on the newsletter, on our website, and on the Christmas postcards.

FIRST COMMUNION 2012: The children preparing for First Communion this summer celebrated their First Confession this weekend. We look forward to welcoming them at Mass in January for their enrolment into the next leg of the preparation for First Communion.

PARISH MAGAZINE: Pick up your copy this weekend. There’s no charge for the magazine. If you want to pop a little something into the newspaper pot, then please do.

200 CLUB MEMBERSHIP: Subscriptions for 2012 are due soon. Look out for your membership letter. Your membership supports our parish in such real ways. With all 200 numbers taken, half that subscription money goes to parish funds – that’s £1200 if all numbers are taken. The other £1200 is given out in prizes throughout the year – ten £25 monthly prizes and two Grand Draws (May and November) with the potential first prize of £200. Do think about renewing your subscription and, if you haven’t got a number, have a word with Colette and sign up before the end of this December.

FIFTY YEARS ON – VATICAN II: This next date for your diaries ready for the New Year – Tuesday 24 January 2012 at 7.30pm. Fr Timothy Menezes will be leading our reflection upon Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Council’s document on the liturgy. This fantastic series of talks Opening the Windows offers us a simple route into re-introducing ourselves to the fruits of the Second Vatican Council. Do go along if you can. It is free, open to everyone, and there’s plenty of parking, too. Downloads on diocesan website.

AND FINALLY… if you are travelling this week to spend Christmas with family or friends, drive safely, have a wonderful time, and return refreshed and spirit-cheered.

THIS SUNDAY: So who is coming? This Sunday’s readings help to answer that question. John the Baptist is asked about the coming of the Messiah – is it him? He affirms his role as “a witness to speak for the light”, by pointing to the one who stands among the crowd unknown to them who is coming after him. This idea is present in the First Reading, where Isaiah proclaims what the “anointed one” (‘Messiah’ in Hebrew) will do, and the joy that this will bring. It is interesting that the Psalm appointed for this Sunday is the Magnificat – Mary’s song of praise at the announcement that the Messiah would be born of her – in which she sings of the works of the coming Messiah. Paul then reminds us that we are still waiting patiently: “God has called you, and he will not fail you.” This is why, on this ‘Gaudete’ Sunday, we as God’s people rejoice in his care, made visible in his promises, fulfilled in Jesus.

200 CLUB MEMBERSHIP: Subscriptions for 2012 are due soon. Look out for your membership letter. Your membership supports our parish in such real ways. With all 200 numbers taken, half that subscription money goes to parish funds – that’s £1200 if all numbers are taken. The other £1200 is given out in prizes throughout the year – ten £25 monthly prizes and two Grand Draws (May and November) with the potential first prize of £200. Do think about renewing your subscription and, if you haven’t got a number, have a word with Colette and sign up before the end of this December.

FIRST COMMUNION 2012: The children began their preparation for First Confession last Wednesday and continue their preparation this coming Wednesday in school. The children celebrate their First Confession this coming Saturday. We keep them in our prayers.

VESPERS: This Sunday afternoon, the last of our Advent Vespers takes place at 4.00pm. This beautiful praying of the Prayer of the Church is a wonderful way to unite ourselves with the Church across the world at prayer.

FAMILY CRIB SERVICE: On the Fourth Sunday of Advent (18 December) we gather with the children of our parish to begin to re-trace that journey to Bethlehem and reflect upon the beauty of the Christmas story. The children are invited to come dressed as one of the characters of the nativity to help focus our reflection upon the people who responded to the invitation to welcome Christ into our world. All are most welcome and we begin at 3.30pm on Sunday 18th December here in the church. There will be refreshments afterwards.

CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR THE HOMELESS: Once again, we’ll be collecting your gifts for the guests of Julian House this Christmas. You’ve been great in previous years wrapping socks, jumpers, toiletries and chocolates for the homeless. The box will be in the Lady Chapel in time for the Crib Service, mid December.

CHRISTMAS CONFESSIONS: Responding to the call of John the Baptist to turn back to the Lord this Advent, you’ll see from the little postcards that there are opportunities other than the two usual Saturday sessions of Confessions. On Tuesday 20 December, there will be a couple of priests hearing confessions from 7.00pm – 8.30pm. Then on Thursday 22 December, an opportunity from 10am – 10.45am. Don’t leave your Christmas confession until the last moment. Make room for the Lord this Advent!

BIG CLEAN FOR CHRISTMAS: On Wednesday 21 December from 10am onwards, willing volunteers are needed just to get the Church ready for the Christmas weekend. If you can spare a little time along with a duster and a brush, just turn up for half an hour or so and lend a hand. Many hands make light of the work.

A CHRISTMAS WELCOME AND OUT-REACH: There are some beautiful cards available from the narthex that give clear details of the week’s build up to Christmas so that you can ‘invite’ folk to join us for Christmas this year. The cards give times of the celebrations at St Bernadette’s, opportunities for confession, and allow you to encourage those who may not normally be with us at the weekend to come back and join us at this special time of year. This is a most important part of reaching out to folk and an important aspect of evangelisation. There may be friends, family, neighbours who just need that encouragement from you to put them back in touch with Church and with that living encounter with Christ.

CHRISTMAS MASSES: You’ll see from the little Christmas postcards that there are four masses over Christmas Day: 6.00pm Christmas Eve as well as Midnight (beginning 11.30pm with Carols) and then 8.30am and 10.30am on Christmas Day. It’ll be great to see you sometime over that Christmas weekend.

RETIRING COLLECTION this Sunday: the Flower Ladies are seeking your help and support through their Christmas flower collection. Your support enables them to make our Church look so beautiful and stunning for the Christmas feasts.

PARISH MAGAZINE: The Advent and Christmas edition of the parish magazine is available for you to collect from the Narthex. There are some fantastic articles in this edition – its well worth picking up. When you;ve finished with it, pass it on! There’s no charge for the magazine. If you want to pop a little something into the newspaper pot, then please do.

FIFTY YEARS ON – VATICAN II: This next date for your diaries ready for the New Year – Tuesday 24 January 2012 at 7.30pm. Fr Timothy Menezes will be leading our reflection upon Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Council’s document on the liturgy. This fantastic series of talks Opening the Windows offers us a simple route into re-introducing ourselves to the fruits of the Second Vatican Council. Do go along if you can. It is free, open to everyone, and there’s plenty of parking, too. Downloads on diocesan website.

THIS SUNDAY: Throughout the first three weeks of Advent our focus is very clearly on the Second Coming of the Lord – not so much on the run up to Christmas (until the last week). If we view Advent as a preparation for Christmas these readings will make little sense – and neither will the figure of John the Baptist who appears today: if it’s about the preparation for Christmas, then John the Baptist, preaching after Jesus was born, is a confusing figure: but his role is to preach to us, as he did of old, and to prepare us for the (second) coming of the Lord. Today we have a very graphic reference to the end of time and the Second Coming in the reading from Saint Peter; it is a frightening picture, and so the first reading offers tender words of comfort to help us understand who is coming, and why we should be ready to meet him.

A HUGE ‘THANK YOU’: Mother Kathleen from the Little Sisters in Cotham has written to thank our parish for their continued support for the work at St Joseph’s.  Some of the Sisters and the residents came to the bingo night last weekend and had a fantastic time out. You raised £550 for the Sisters last Saturday because of your generosity. Thanks to those who supported the evening and those who helped make it a fun time!

200 CLUB MEMBERSHIP: Subscriptions for 2012 are due soon. Look out for your membership letter. The Grand Draw took place during the bingo night last weekend and there were three lucky winners: £50 – Norah Smalldridge; £100 – Clare Taylor; £200 – Fr Christopher.

FIRST COMMUNION 2012: The children began their preparation for First Confession last Wednesday and continue their preparation this coming TUESDAY in school. We look forward to welcoming them for their Mass on Enrolment in January. Do keep them in your prayers as they journey towards the Sacraments.

VESPERS: Continuing this Sunday, there will be the celebration of Evening Prayer at 4.00pm on Advent Sunday I, II, and III. This is a beautiful way of praying the psalms drawing the day to a close. Do come along and make this a real part of your Advent journey of preparation.

WALK WITH ME: These simple books of reflection for each day of Advent, priced £1, from the narthex.

FAMILY CRIB SERVICE: On the Fourth Sunday of Advent (18 December) we gather with the children of our parish to begin to re-trace that journey to Bethlehem and reflect upon the beauty of the Christmas story. The children are invited to come dressed as one of the characters of the nativity to help focus our reflection upon the people who responded to the invitation to welcome Christ into our world. All are most welcome and we begin at 3.30pm on Sunday 18th December here in the church. There will be refreshments afterwards in the hall.

A CHRISTMAS WELCOME AND OUT-REACH: There are some beautiful cards available from the narthex that give clear details of the week’s build up to Christmas so that you can ‘invite’ folk to join us for Christmas this year. The cards give times of the celebrations at St Bernadette’s, opportunities for confession, and allow you to encourage those who may not normally be with us at the weekend to come back and join us at this special time of year. This is a most important part of reaching out to folk and an important aspect of evangelisation. There may be friends, family, neighbours who just need that encouragement from you to put them back in touch with Church and with that living encounter with Christ. You are encouraged to take the cards and hand them on! Take as many as you can.

CHRISTMAS MASSES: You’ll see from the little Christmas postcards that there are four masses over Christmas Day: 6.00pm Christmas Eve as well as Midnight (beginning 11.30pm with Carols) and then 8.30am and 10.30am on Christmas Day. It’ll be great to see you sometime over that Christmas weekend.

CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR THE HOMELESS: Once again, we’ll be collecting your gifts for the guests of Julian House this Christmas. You’ve been great in previous years wrapping socks, jumpers, toiletries and chocolates for the homeless. The box will be in the Lady Chapel in time for the Crib Service, mid December.

DIOCESAN YEARBOOKS AND DIRECTORIES: Get them while you can! There were only 20 directories (£5) and 8 liturgical yearbooks (£5.99) this year. You can pop the money into the newspaper money box.

FIFTY YEARS ON – VATICAN II: This coming Tuesday – 6 December at 7.30pm in our cathedral, Fr James Hanvey SJ will explore two of the influential and significant documents of the Second Vatican Council – Lumen Gentium and Gaudium et Spes – drawing us into reflection and inviting us to think about how we are called to be the Church in the contemporary world. This fantastic series of talks Opening the Windows (the complete list is in the narthex) offers us a simple route into re-introduceing ourselves to the fruits of the Second Vatican Council. Do go along if you can. It is free, open to everyone, and there’s plenty of parking, too.

RETIRING COLLECTION this Sunday for the Poor Missions of the Diocese. We support the parishes that aren’t as fortunate as we are to have the finances to do what we do throughout the year. Some of our parishes struggle and so this collection invites us into solidarity and support with them in their need. On Sunday 18 December, the Flower Ladies will be seeking your help and support through their flower collection.

THANK YOU to Michael Long for the beautiful way he has inscribed the new Altar Missals with the names of those in whose memory the donations have been given.

THIS SUNDAY: Advent opens with a great cry, and a great promise: “Oh that you would tear the heavens open and come down!” is the cry of a people who need God. “…the master is coming” is the promise, not to breed fear, but to answer our cry. Advent begins, not with thoughts of the past, with the coming of the Lord we celebrate at Christmas, but with the future, and the promise that He is coming back. We are encouraged to treat every day as the day the Lord will come; we do not do this out of fear for a Master who beats his servants, but out of love of a Master who always treats us with love and mercy. Nevertheless we must always be watchful, because we can grow sleepy and complacent, saying that we can leave this prayer or that confession or the other change in the way we live to tomorrow. Even as we look forward to the tomorrow of the Lord’s coming, we must remember that it might be today!

RECEPTION AND BLESSING OF THE NEW MISSAL: At Mass this Saturday evening, as we begin mass and bless our Advent wreath, we will also receive on the sanctuary the new missal. We pray that as we embrace the new translation, our prayer and our liturgy may draw us ever closer to God and his love. Sunday Missals have also arrived and will be available from this weekend. Those of you who have ordered one from FrC will find your name on the missal. There may be one or two extras that have been ordered if you would like one.

200 CLUB MEMBERSHIP: Subscriptions for 2012 are due soon. Look out for your membership letter.

FIRST COMMUNION 2012: The complete list of preparation sessions, celebration Masses, and parents’ sessions can now be found on the notice board as well as on the parish website. If you missed the details and the meeting for whatever reason you will need to contact FrC, please. The children begin their preparation for First Confession on Wednesday 30 November in school. We look forward to welcoming them for their Mass on Enrolment in January.

ROTAS: You’ll find the December rotas online and paper copies as well as notes for Readers in the narthex.

FIRST FRIDAY SOUP LUNCH: The next First Friday soup lunch takes place this coming Friday 2 December, following Exposition, at 12.15pm. All are most welcome.

VESPERS: Beginning this Sunday, there will be the celebration of Evening Prayer at 4.00pm on Advent Sunday I, II, and III. This is a beautiful way of praying the psalms drawing the day to a close. Do come along and make this a real part of your Advent journey of preparation.

FAMILY CRIB SERVICE: On the Fourth Sunday of Advent we gather with the children of our parish to begin to re-trace that journey to Bethlehem and reflect upon the beauty of the Christmas story. The children are invited to come dressed as one of the characters of the nativity to help focus our reflection upon the people who responded to the invitation to welcome Christ into our world. All are most welcome and we begin at 3.30pm on Sunday 18^th December here in the church. There will be refreshments afterwards in the hall.

WALK WITH ME: These simple books of reflection for each day of Advent are available, priced £1, from the narthex.

A CHRISTMAS WELCOME AND OUT-REACH: There are some beautiful cards available from this weekend that give clear details of the week’s build up to Christmas so that you can ‘invite’ folk to join us for Christmas this year. The cards give times of the celebrations at St Bernadette’s, opportunities for confession, and allow you to encourage those who may not normally be with us at the weekend to come back and join us at this special time of year. This is a most important part of reaching out to folk and an important aspect of evangelisation. There may be friends, family, neighbours who just need that encouragement from you to put them back in touch with Church and with that living encounter with Christ. You are encouraged to take the cards and hand them on!

CHRISTMAS MASSES: You’ll see from the little Christmas postcards that there are four masses over Christmas Day: 6.00pm Christmas Eve as well as Midnight (beginning 11.30pm with Carols) and then 8.30am and 10.30am on Christmas Day. It’ll be great to see you sometime over that Christmas weekend.

AMPLIUS CHRISTMAS CONCERT takes place on Saturday 3 December at Counterslip Baptist Church beginning at 7.30pm. We are warmly invited to go along. Full details on the notice board.

CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR THE HOMELESS: Once again, we’ll be collecting your gifts for the guests of Julian House this Christmas. You’ve been great in previous years wrapping socks, jumpers, toiletries and chocolates for the homeless. The box will be in the Lady Chapel in time for the Crib Service, mid December.

DIOCESAN YEARBOOKS AND DIRECTORIES: Get them while you can! There were only 20 directories (£5) and 8 liturgical yearbooks (£5.99) this year. There were too many left last year, so get these whilst they are available from the Narthex. You can pop the money into the newspaper money box.

FIFTY YEARS ON – VATICAN II: The next date for your diary is Tuesday 6 December, 7.30pm in our cathedral when Fr James Hanvey SJ will explore Lumen Gentium and Gaudium et Spes, inviting us to think about being the Church in the contemporary world. This is a fantastic series of talks (the complete list is in the narthex) where we can simple re-introduce ourselves to the fruits of the Second Vatican Council. Do go along if you can.

THIS SUNDAY: “Shepherd-King o’er mountain steep, homeward guide thy wand’ring sheep.” This hymn which we will probably sing today captures the readings perfectly: our King is not a cruel tyrant or despot, but a shepherd who loves his flock, who would (and did) give his life for them. Love for the flock means that he will have to judge them, separating the sheep from those who do not belong to him. Coming to the end of the Church’s year leads us to look to our final ending, the homecoming the hymn speaks of. The judgement of the end of time we do not view as a trial or a terror, but as a coming home: look back to the Isaiah reading on the 28th Sunday to see what a homecoming party is offered. All we do is put our lives in order, living just and holy lives, longing for the day of the lord to come.

200 CLUB MEMBERSHIP: Subscriptions for 2012 are due soon. Look out for your membership letter.

FIRST COMMUNION 2012: The complete list of preparation sessions, celebration Masses, and parents’ sessions can now be found on the notice board as well as on the parish website. If you missed the details and the meeting for whatever reason you will need to contact FrC, please. The children begin their preparation for First Confession on Wednesday 30 November in school. We look forward to welcoming them for their Mass on Enrolment in January.

ROTAS: You’ll find the December rotas online and paper copies as well as notes for Readers in the narthex.

FIRST FRIDAY SOUP LUNCH: The next First Friday soup lunch takes place on Friday 2 December, following Exposition, at 12.15pm. All are most welcome.

BINGO NIGHT – IN AID OF THE LITTLE SISTERS: Bingo night on Saturday 26 November (next Saturday) (7.30pm) to raise money for the Little Sisters. A hearty supper for £5 and bingo cards will be available to buy on the night. Pop your name on the list in the narthex if you would like a seat… and bring your friends with you! There will be plenty of opportunities to help the Little Sisters raise a little money for their home in Cotham. The Grand Draw of the 200 Club will be drawn at the Bingo night – there’s a big cheque for £200 to be taken home!

NEW ALTAR MISSALS: The Sunday Missals should arrive this week in readiness for Advent. Watch this space. Weekday missals ordered will be with us in January. You’ll be able to pick yours up from the narthex.

VESPERS FOR CHRIST THE KING: There will be Vespers (4.00pm) for the feast of Christ the King this afternoon – do come along if you can. Today is also National Youth Sunday, a Sunday where we pray for the young people of our Church and also where we are asked to support our diocesan youth service through the retiring collection. There is so much to support our young people in our diocese and your gift through this collection works to encourage them and those who work with them to be confidently Catholic.

ADVENT: Next Sunday we begin a new year in the life of the Church, and the season of preparation for Christmas. There will be Vespers on the first three Sundays of Advent (27 Nov, 4 Dec and 11 Dec), and our Family Crib Service on Sunday 18 December at 3.30pm. There are little reflection books for Advent, allowing you to journey through the scriptures of the season each and every day. You’ll find these in the narthex.  There will be opportunities for Confession during Advent – each Saturday and during the week as we approach Christmas. It is important that we use Advent as a season of prayer, too. If you have an Advent Wreath ready for home, then bring it along to Mass next week, place it under the Church’s wreath and take that blessing and that light into your homes.

A CHRISTMAS WELCOME AND OUT-REACH: There are some beautiful cards available from this weekend that give clear details of the week’s build up to Christmas so that you can ‘invite’ folk to join us for Christmas this year. The cards give times of the celebrations at St Bernadette’s, opportunities for confession, and allow you to encourage those who may not normally be with us at the weekend to come back and join us at this special time of year. This is a most important part of reaching out to folk and an important aspect of evangelisation. There may be friends, family, neighbours who just need that encouragement from you to put them back in touch with Church and with that living encounter with Christ. You are encouraged to take the cards and hand them on!

CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR THE HOMELESS: Once again, we’ll be collecting your gifts for the guests of Julian House this Christmas. You’ve been great in previous years wrapping socks, jumpers, toiletries and chocolates for the homeless. The box will be in the Lady Chapel in time for the Crib Service, mid December.

OUR RETIRED PRIESTS: We are fortunate to be welcoming some of our retired priests back to St Bernadette’s for their annual mass and lunch with the Bishop this Wednesday, 23 November. Mass will be celebrated at 11.00am with Bishop Declan, so do come along and help make these priests welcome.

DIOCESAN YEARBOOKS AND DIRECTORIES: Get them while you can! There are only 20 directories (£5) and 8 liturgical yearbooks (£5.99) this year. There were too many left last year, so get these whilst they are available from the Narthex. You can pop the money into the newspaper money box.

READERS FOR CHRISTMAS: If you are available to read at either of the Christmas morning Masses (8½am or 10½am), please get in touch with FrC or Cora Pring asap. Readers for 6pm and Midnight have been sorted.

FIFTY YEARS ON – VATICAN II: The next date for your diary is Tuesday 6 December, 7.30pm in our cathedral when Fr James Hanvey SJ will explore Lumen Gentium and Gaudium et Spes, inviting us to think about being the Church in the contemporary world.

OUR PRAYERS go in support of baby Eryn Barber and Elizabeth Anthony who died recently and, of course, their families. We pray that God will bring them into his peace and bring comfort to those who grieve their loss. You will see the details of funerals in the weekly mass schedule.