The Catholic Parish of Crawley - Week by Week

Crawley Pilgrim Papal Pictures

2010-09-27T09:34:00.002+01:00

Parishioner Francis Fernandes has taken some wonderful pictures at Cofton Park...the Pope even helped him by opening the Popemobile window!

A Crawley Pilgrims view

2010-09-27T09:26:00.004+01:00

The Beatification of John Henry Cradinal Newman in Birmingham. Picture taken by Frances Fernandes.

Papal Parishioners

2010-09-25T21:49:00.004+01:00

Over the next few days we will be adding pictures and memories from the many parishioners who attended the Papal Liturgies and events last week. If you would like to be included please email: crawley.parish@dabnet.org

Parishioners attend the Beatification in Birmingham

2010-09-25T21:25:00.002+01:00

I first saw Pope John Paul II at Wembley. He was inspiring and magnificent. I then saw him at St. Peter's in Rome for his 25th Anniversary and the Beatification of Blessed Mother Teresa, not long before hsi death. He was dependent on help from others. At his side constantly was Cardinal Ratzinger, a man with a hard reputation.
To actually see the loving kindness and hear the sensitivity and understanding intellect of Pope Benedict XVI stirs me with humble gratitude to God for our Holy Father and his successful visit to us at a time when we really need him. I am so grateful.

Crawley Parishioners at Hyde Park

2010-09-25T17:22:00.003+01:00

“...The pilgrims were arriving in their thousandsand you could almost taste the expectancy in the air. Around 2pm the giant TV screens came to life and the comperes presented the "liturgical entertainment" for the next four hours or so. This comprised singers and dancers from various backgrounds and ethnicity that was most enjoyable...”
“My experience of the Holy Father’s visit to Hyde Park was the overwhelming peace and joy of all who were present and the powerful witness of thousands of the youth of this country, gathered together in prayer and worship. Praise God.”

“…The atmosphere was really great; all the youth groups (including us) were having a good time ... Soon after, all the diocesan youth groups processed down to the area near the front. …The pope-mobile drove round us and then to the stage where Benedict XVI got out and began the vigil. After the liturgy of the word, the pope gave a homily on the now Blessed John Henry Newman after which the Blessed Sacrament was venerated. Overall, the day was enjoyable and a spiritual enrichment, especially for the A&B youth group.”

“..He blessed us and led us in prayer and the singing of the two great hymns of Cardinal Newman The Dream of Gerontius and Lead Kindly Light, the latter being sung during the festival of the candles. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrement closed the Vigil and we travelled home spiritually refreshed.

“VIBRANCY & SERENITY.
The experience said so much about our church.”

Confirmation at Worth Abbey

2010-06-20T20:25:00.000+01:00

Forty young people from our parish received the sacrament of confirmation by Bishop Kieran Conry at Worth Abbey last Sunday 20th June.

Please remember them in your prayers: Megan Barton, Samuel Blackman-Gibson, Rachel Chinn, Jessica Cook, Michael Correia, Nathan Croke, Ricardo Da Silva, Nicola de Nobrega, Megan Dinnage, Nicolene Eje, Aimee-Rose Ekins, Nicholas Fotheringham, Ricardo Gouveia, Zachary Gouveia Correia, Hayley Harrison, Hayley Harrison, Sophie Lennon, Celine Lyons, Lauren Martin, Rachel Martin, Katie McMillan, Phillip Mitchell, Casey Molloy, Ikaysye Mwakitwange, Amy Read, Shabella Renaud, Toby Rivers, Jacob Said, Anya Saternus, Kerry Schofield, Eric Smith, Thomasina Smith, Michael Stabile, Mark Stevenson, Ayeasha Tobin, Alex Viteritti, James Warren, James Warren, Luke White, and Sean White.

They will be receiving their certificates at the 5.30pm mass on Sunday 18th July. Many thanks to the catechists and the families of the candidates for their support of the newly confirmed.

Sr. Attracta's Diamond Jubilee

2010-06-15T18:06:00.000+01:00

Congratulations to Sr. Attracta, of the Copthorne Convent, who this year celebrates the Diamond Jubilee of her Profession as a Religious. Bishop Kieran celebrated Mass with her and the other jubilarians before presentening them with an Icon.

Papal Visit Leafllet

2010-06-12T09:52:00.002+01:00

Congratulations to Deacon Mark Woods and the Diocesan Communications Commission on producing an excellent leaflet about the forthcoming Papal Visit. There is a copy for everyone in the porches of the parish this weekend.

Papal visit - youth name drawn

2010-06-11T23:29:00.002+01:00

Following the invitation to apply for place on the diocesan youth group travelling to London for the Papal visit the names of interested young people were placed in a tub. During the Friday afternoon parish team meeting the name of one young person was drawn at random followed by the name of a 'back-up'. Mgr. Tony will be making contact over the next day or so

Diocesan Jubilees

2010-06-09T16:00:00.000+01:00

The priests of the diocese joined with Bishop Kieran to celebrate this years jubilees of ordination. The picture shows the silver jubilarians including our own Revv. Tony's.

Corpus Christi Concert

2010-06-07T14:24:00.001+01:00

Thank you to all those musical parishioners who took part in the concert. Everyone has been agreeing that it was a brilliant evening combining the talents of TENORS UNLIMITED - pictured above with some of the young parishioners who took part. Thank you also to all those behind the scenes who planned and organised with great skill.

Carpet of Flowers

2010-06-03T09:03:00.000+01:00

All are invited to come and see beautiful arrangements of flowers, with a floral icon of Christ as the centrepiece. Church open 9am.Entry £2 adult, 50p children, £4 family (2 adults, 2 children,)

Tilgate Eccumenical Prayer for Pentecost

2010-05-24T09:06:00.000+01:00

Neighbours from various churches in Tilgate, Furnace Green and further afield, met together at St. Bernadette’s Roman Catholic Church in Tilgate, in the evening of Sunday 23 rd May to celebrate the third most important feast in the Christian calendar.
Pentecost marks the birthday of the Christian Church and commemorates the event at the beginning of Christian history, when a multi racial group of visitors to Jerusalem were inspired to become united in heart and mind, to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ in their lives.
Those who took part in the service at St. B’s on Sunday thoroughly enjoyed the occasion and look forward to further opportunities to share in worship, each others’ company and to demonstrate Christianity’s lasting legacy.
The photograph was taken immediately after a Service of the Evening Prayer of the Church for Pentecost, and shows neighbours of various different Christian communities in the town, enjoying a cup of tea and a chat.
Stephen Innes -Resident of Furnace Green

CAFOD / Christian Aid

2010-05-09T10:27:00.000+01:00

Ever wondered what life would be like if we didn’t have the luxury of clean drinking water and adequate sewage disposal? Christians met together at the Friary Church in Crawley Town Centre on Sunday 9th May for a service to mark the beginning of Christian Aid Week 2010. They found out what life is like in some of the slum settlements in and around Nairobi in Kenya. There are no toilets; people make do with very inadequate conditions which causes severe suffering for the poorest of the World’s population.
The service was arranged by the Churches Together in Tilgate and Furnace Green, although many different communities were represented. Christian Aid and CAFOD (Catholic Fund for Overseas Development) joined forces to show compassion for the poorest of the poor. The collection taken up will be shared equally between the two relief agencies.
Photograph shows Mr. Martin Brown of CAFOD explaining how relief agencies work.
Steve Innes
Photographs Neil Olsen

Welcome Home Fr. Andrew

2010-04-23T22:23:00.000+01:00

It is good to be able to welcome Fr. Andrew home for the weekend - it would have been for the week but he was stuck on the wrong side of the ash cloud!

Statement by the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales

2010-04-23T10:50:00.000+01:00

Child abuse in the Catholic Church has been such a focus of public attention recently, that we, the Bishops of England and Wales, wish to address this issue directly and unambiguously.
Catholics are members of a single universal body. These terrible crimes, and the inadequate response by some church leaders, grieve us all.
Our first thoughts are for all who have suffered from the horror of these crimes, which inflict such severe and lasting wounds. They are uppermost in our prayer. The distress we feel at what has happened is nothing in comparison with the suffering of those who have been abused.
The criminal offences committed by some priests and religious are a profound scandal. They bring deep shame to the whole church. But shame is not enough. The abuse of children is a grievous sin against God. Therefore we focus not on shame but on our sorrow for these sins. They are the personal sins of only a very few. But we are bound together in the Body of Christ and, therefore, their sins touch us all.
We express our heartfelt apology and deep sorrow to those who have suffered abuse, those who have felt ignored, disbelieved or betrayed. We ask their pardon, and the pardon of God for these terrible deeds done in our midst. There can be no excuses.
Furthermore, we recognise the failings of some Bishops and Religious leaders in handling these matters. These, too, are aspects of this tragedy which we deeply regret and for which we apologise. The procedures now in place in our countries highlight what should have been done straightaway in the past. Full co-operation with statutory bodies is essential.
Now, we believe, is a time for deep prayer of reparation and atonement. We invite Catholics in England and Wales to make the four Fridays in May 2010 special days of prayer. Even when we are lost for words, we can place ourselves in silent prayer. We invite Catholics on these days to come before the Blessed Sacrament in our parishes to pray to God for healing, forgiveness and a renewed dedication. We pray for all who have suffered abuse; for those who mishandled these matters and added to the suffering of those affected. From this prayer we do not exclude those who have committed these sins of abuse. They have a journey of repentance and atonement to make.
We pray also for Pope Benedict, whose wise and courageous leadership is so important for the Church at this time.
In our dioceses we will continue to make every effort, working with our safeguarding commissions, to identify any further steps we can take, especially concerning the care of those who have suffered abuse, including anyone yet to come forward with their account of their painful and wounded past. We are committed to continuing the work of safeguarding, and are determined to maintain openness and transparency, in close co-operation with the statutory authorities in our countries. We thank the thousands who give generously of their time and effort to the Church’s safeguarding work in our parishes and dioceses.
We commit ourselves afresh to the service of children, young people and the vulnerable in our communities. We have faith and hope in the future. The Catholic Church abounds in people, both laity, religious and clergy, of great dedication, energy and generosity who serve in parishes, schools, youth ventures and the care of elderly people. We also thank them. The Holy Spirit guides us to sorrow and repentance, to a firm determination to better ways, and to a renewal of love and generosity towards all in need.

Congratulations Fr. Paul

2010-04-19T23:02:00.000+01:00

Fr. Paul successfully completed the Brighton Marathon in 4 hours 7 mins and 22 seconds. In doing so he raised over £1,500 for Marys Meal. Congratulations also to parishioners Mark Calwson and Shiela and Clive Harburn who also finished in good times.

A suggestion for this Easter

2010-03-14T11:42:00.000Z

The Exsultet praises the Easter candle as 'a pillar of fire that glows to the honour of God'.

Now you can have a Home Paschal Candle, a 9"x2" beeswax candle, complete with Easter transfer and stand.

Only £10 each, these candles will be blessed at the Easter Vigil, ready for you to take home then, or on Easter Sunday.

See the posters in the porch, and add your details to the Order forms in each Church.

Preparing for Mothering Sunday

2010-03-13T10:59:00.000Z

Thank you to some of the flowers ladies of the parish who arranged for flower arrangements to be available in the Friary Hall for all who would like to give their mothers something special rather than commercial. The morning opened at 10am and by the time this picture was taken ten minutes later all the large arrangements on the stage behind Min, Jackie & Dolores were gone! Thank you to those who organised the jewellery & cake stalls, raffle and refreshments.

RCIA - First Scrutiny

2010-03-09T11:13:00.000Z

In our parish there are six people have been preparing over the past year to be received into the Catholic Church.
Part of the final stage of the preparation is a series of liturgies known as the ‘Scrutinies’. This perhaps rather unattractive name actually refers to very significant themes of faith, healing and new life. We will be celebrating these liturgies on three consecutive Tuesdays during the 7:15pm Mass at St Bernadette’s, Tilgate, starting Tuesday, 9th March.

CAFOD Family Fast

2010-02-26T15:22:00.000Z

Thank you to Anna, Min and all those who helped them to organise the CAFOD Family Fast Day Soup Lunch at Gossops Green Convent. Congratulations to Fr. Paul for winning First Prize in the Raffle (and then pulling out Fr. Tony's ticket - Fr. Chris also won!) A big thank you to all those who supported it and especially the Domician Sisters for being such generous hosts.

Additional early Morning Masses

2010-02-22T21:49:00.001Z

This week Mass will be celebrated at 7.30am on Monday (St. Bernatte's, Tilgate), Tuesday (Copthorne Convent), Wednesday (Gossops Green Convent), & Friday (Gossops Green Convent). All are welcome - a wonderful way beginning to the day during Lent.

Journey of Faith - Joining the Church

2010-02-20T11:09:00.001Z

This afternoon saw a great number of people from across the Diocese go down to Arundel Cathedral to participate in the Rite of Election. In our parish there are six people have been preparing over the past year to be received into the Catholic Church, and at Arundel they were formally accepted as candidates by the Bishop.

The process of preparation is known as the RCIA, which stands for Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. It involves regular meetings with a team of catechists and others in which they are introduced into the faith and life of the Church.

In his homily at Arundel, Bishop Kieran referred to this Sunday’s Gospel of the Transfiguration and said that for all of us, not just those being received into the Church, change is possible. The call to continuing conversion is to be heard and responded to by everyone.

So please pray for all those on the RCIA programme. May they, and us, enjoy a holy and fruitful Lent and come rejoicing and renewed to the celebration of the Sacraments at Easter.

Joanne Towner RIP

2010-02-18T00:00:00.000Z

Please remember in your prayers Joanne Towner who has been one of the pillars of the community of St. Edward's, Pound Hill for many years - indeed Pope Benedict Awarded her a Bene Merenti for her services to the church. Joan's funeral will take place in St. Edward's this afternoon at 3pm.

Ash Wednesday

2010-02-17T21:39:00.000Z

"Dear brothers and sisters, while we prepare to receive Ashes on our heads as a sign of conversion and repentance, let us open our hearts to the vivifying action of the word of God. May Lent, marked by more frequent listening to this word, by more intense prayer, by an austere and penitential lifestyle, be an incentive to conversion and to sincere love towards our brothers, especially those who are poorest and neediest. …May Mary, the attentive Virgin of listening and the humble Handmaid of the Lord guide us. Thus spiritually renewed, we shall succeed in celebrating Easter joyfully. Amen! " Pope Benedict.

SVP Dance

2010-02-06T09:00:00.000Z

Thank you to our parish St. Vicent de Paul Society for orgnising a very enjoyable dance in the Friary Hall. Thank you to all those who attended or supported it: the funds raised will be of great benefit to the people with whom the SVP works locally.

Ad Limina

2010-02-01T19:03:00.001Z

Bishop Kieran, alongside the other bishops of England and Wales, took part this morning in the audience with Pope Benedict. The follwoing is a report from Rome:

The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI spoke about his forthcoming Apostolic Visit to Great Britain in his address to the bishops of England and Wales on the occasion of their Ad Limina visit to Rome. This General Audience took place on the morning of Monday 1 February 2010.
The Apostolic Visit is taking place in response to an invitation extended by the State.
The Holy Father said:“Even amid the pressures of a secular age, there are many signs of living faith and devotion among the Catholics of England and Wales. I am thinking for example of the enthusiasm generated by the visit of the relics of St Thérèse, the interest aroused by the prospect of Cardinal Newman’s beatification and the eagerness of young people to take part in pilgrimages and World Youth Days.
On the occasion of my forthcoming Apostolic Visit to Great Britain, I shall be able to witness that faith for myself and as Successor of Peter, to strengthen and confirm it.
During the months of preparation that lie ahead, be sure to encourage the Catholics of England and Wales in their devotion and assure them that the Pope constantly remembers them in his prayers and holds them in his heart.”
Full text of the Holy Father's address to the Bishops of England and Wales
No date for the visit has yet been confirmed

You tube have a video of part of the Audience: http://www.youtube.com/vatican#p/a/u/0/CcyzQxYuEx0

Seniors Tea

2010-01-31T16:09:00.000Z

Thank you to St. Edward's Club, parish volunteers and who who contributed to make this afternoons Seniors Tea such a great success. A big thank you to all the musicians and entertainers. It was particularly good to see such a large number of the young people of the parish contributing in so many ways: THANK YOU

A Word from Fr. Rafal Majewski

2010-01-30T22:04:00.001Z

First of all I wish to greet all those who decided to read these few words and to thank you for your warm welcome to your community of faith. As you already know my name is Rafal pronounced Raphael Majewski and I come from Radom in central Poland.
I was ordained in 2001.and then served as priest the diocese of Radom in three parishes. Regretfully, in my first parish I was infected by one of my colleagues by his passion for aquariums! Since then one of the centrepieces of my home and my life has been a fresh-water aquarium full of beautiful and exotic fish which my parents are looking after at present, together with my other great love, my German shepherd dog, Nero. I miss him a lot – he is a wonderful companion.
I arrived in England in September 2008 and was sent to Eastbourne where I spent my time mainly learning English and doing a little work in the parish under the watchful eyes of Father Seamus, Father Raglan and with the constant support of Father Tim.
I now look forward with joy and some trepidation, to starting my priestly duties here in Crawley. Please pray for me and be patient with my less than perfect English, and forgive me when I make mistakes. I promise that you will all be in my prayers and May God and His Mother bless you all.

Latest A&B News

2010-01-29T09:13:00.000Z

The latest edition of our Diocesan Newspaper is available, free of charge, in the porches this weekend. Its' cover story is the ordination of our own Fr. Andy Moss.

Friary Fundraiser

2010-01-27T21:46:00.000Z

Thank you to Paul Shortall, of Ballard & Shortall, and his colleagues for organising the Race Night at the Royal Oak to raise funds for the Friary Re-Development. A big thank you to Min for arranging the sponsorship of the horses and to all who supported the event - both in advance and on the night.

Parish Bereavement Support Group

2010-01-26T22:53:00.002Z

If you have lost a loved one and would an opportunity to talk and share your experiences with someone also bereaved, please do come along to our next meeting this afternoon, Tuesday 26th January, 2-4pm in the Parish room at Our Lady’s. A very warm welcome awaits you.

The Removal Van cometh...

2010-01-26T19:00:00.000Z

The Conversion of St. Paul

2010-01-25T09:06:00.001Z

Today the Church marks the experience Paul had on his way to Damascus – commonly known as his conversion. It was on the road to Damascus, at the beginning of the 30’s in the 1st century and after a time when Paul had persecuted the Church that the decisive moment in Paul’s life occurred. The Risen Lord spoke to Paul, made him a true Apostle, a witness of the Resurrection, with the task of proclaiming the Gospel to the Gentiles. This turning point in his life, this transformation of his whole being was the fruit of this encounter with Christ.

So too for us: ‘We are only Christians if we encounter Christ – in reading Scripture, in prayer, in the liturgical life of the Church. We can touch Christ’s Heart and feel him touching ours. Only in this personal relationship with Christ, only in this encounter with the Risen One do we truly become Christians. Let us pray the Lord to grant us an encounter with his presence in our world, and thus to grant us a lively faith, an open heart and a great love for all, which is capable of renewing the world.’ (Pope Benedict XVI

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

2010-01-24T17:23:00.000Z

Thank you to all those, particularly from the community of St. Bernadette's, Tilgate, who gathered for an Ecumenical Gathering during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Thank you to the Tilgate and Furnace Green Churches Together group for organising and to the Holy Trinity Church Tilgate for hosting it and making everyone so welcome.

Welcome Fr. Rafal

2010-01-24T09:30:00.000Z

By a happy co-incidence Bishop Kieran celebrated the Sunday 9.30am at the Friary on Fr. Rafal's first Sunday in the parish. The Bishop was therefore able to offer the parish a personal introduction to our new priest. It must have been slightly daunting for Fr. Rafal - preaching for the first time in Crawley but the warmth of the welcome from the community soon became clear as people greeted him after Mass.

"Crawley has made my priesthood"

2010-01-23T23:35:00.000Z

It was with great sadness and great gratitude that the parish said thank you & farewell to Fr. Simon on Saturday evening. It began with a tremendous celebration of Mass in the Friary Church during which Fr. Simon preached reflecting on his vocation and telling the parishioners that Crawley had made his priesthood. Following the mass a packed Friary Hall applauded as Sr. Hannah spoke of the gratitude of the people of Crawley for the holy and personal way in which Fr. Simon has served us over the last four and a half years. Fr. Simon responded by thanking the parish for all it had given him before cutting the largest cake imaginable.

Thank you to Crawley's Young People

2010-01-17T16:57:00.001Z

Today some of the young people of the Parish had organised a soup lunch after Mass at St. Edward's to help raise funds towards their World Youth Day trip in 2011. Having heard the news of Haiti they decided that CAFOD's need was greater and they gave all the proceeds, over £100, to the Haiti Appeal. Thank you - you are an example to us all.

Peace Sunday 17 January 2010

2010-01-16T16:42:00.001Z

The theme for 43nd World Day of Peace message by Pope Benedict XVI is: If you want to cultivate peace,protect creation.

The theme aims to raise awareness about the strong bond that exists in our globalized and interconnected world between protecting the creation and cultivating peace
... "If the human family is unable to face these new challenges with a renewed sense of social justice and equity, and of international solidarity, we run the risk of sowing seeds of violence among peoples, and between current generations and those to come... ecological questions must be faced," From Vatican Press Notice

The full text of the Pope's Message can be found here: http://www.paxchristi.org.uk/PeaceSunday.html

Urgent Message from CAFOD

2010-01-15T09:34:00.000Z

As you know Haiti has suffered a massive earthquake measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale which has devastated the capital. We fear that more than three million people could be in need of shelter, food, clean drinking water and medicine.

We know that you and your parish will be concerned about the people affected by this disaster and will want to do what you can to help.
Because the need is so urgent, we would like you to hold a special collection in your parish this weekend (we will have a second collection at each of the Masses) for the CAFOD Haiti earthquake appeal. We appreciate that there are many appeals throughout the year but we hope that many would want to help and would appreicate being given the opportunity to give.

The earthquake was so strong that it destroyed many buildings including the cathedral, the National Palace and the UN headquarters, as well as hundreds of thousands of homes. It is believed that tens of thousands of people have died including the Archbishop of Port-au-Prince, Monsignor Joseph Serge Miot.

We are in a strong position to respond on the ground in Haiti through our church partners, including Caritas Haiti who are assessing the situation right now and finding out what is most needed. Because the earthquake has been so destructive, most of the roads are impassable so our partners are travelling by motorbike or on foot to reach the most vulnerable people.

We will be working closely with Caritas International - a group of Catholic agencies from around the world - to get help to those who need it most. The money you raise will help our partners supply water, food, medicines and shelter to people in the worst affected areas and help people to rebuild their lives in the long term.

We know that you are busy preparing to support us during the season of Lent, but hope that you will understand the people of Haiti need our help urgently. We greatly appreciate your continued support and ask you to keep those affected by this disaster in your prayers.

Below is a prayer of intercession for the people of Haiti which we hope you will be able to use in your parish.

We pray for the people of Haiti, struggling with the devastating effects of the recent earthquake: that despite the destruction around them they may not lose hope and may find the strength to rebuild their lives. Lord in your mercy...

View a prayer for the people affected by the earthquake in Haiti and find out more about our response at http://www.cafod.org.uk/haitiappeal

LG, GG & Pound Hill Core Group

2010-01-14T09:08:00.002Z

This evening the Langley Green / Gossops Green and Pound Hill Core Groups are meeting to discuss local issues. If you have any items to add to the their agendas please email them to Tony.Barry@dabnet.org or ring the parish office on 01293 524176.

Vocations

2010-01-12T10:59:00.002Z

A reminder from Fr. Paul: "'The Priesthood – Alter Christus' DVD has been produced for our diocese during this 'Year for Priests'. The launch events to promote the DVD will take place this evening Tuesday 12th January at St John's Seminary, Wonersh (8pm) - Weather permitting! "
If your wondering about the snowman - actually it is a snow sister: she is the latest vocation to the Fransician Community at Copthorne introduced after the early morning Mass this morning.

Fr. Simon

2010-01-11T08:56:00.000Z

Fr. Simon has been in Crawley for four and a half years and Bishop Kieran has been in discussion with him about his next appointment. They have agreed that, in order to allow time for a short sabbatical before the September moves, Fr. Simon should leave Crawley on the 24th January.
Fr. Simon will celebrate his farewell Mass farewell at 6pm on Saturday 23rd January in the Friary followed by a celebration in the Friary Hall.
Fr. Rafal, a young Polish priest, who has been working in Eastbourne will join the team on January 18th and we know you will make him very welcome.

Limited access / parking for cars

2010-01-09T09:26:00.001Z

Unfortunatley it is not possible to clear the Car Parks at each of the churches: the car in the picture belongs to one of the priests - moved to the front because of the difficulties of the access road. Car Drivers may want to consider alternative arrangements / Car Parks.

The Long Goodbye

2010-01-09T00:14:00.002Z

Having thanked Fr. Anthony for his help over Christmas and bid him farewell as he headed back to Rome it was a surprise to find him back in the house. Unfortunately he is among the many who find themselves stranded by snow. He will try to leave again this afternoon with a different airline and we wish him well: in the nicest possible way we are hoping not to see him again for a while (if you find him supplying on Sunday who will know what has happened!)

A warm welcome in Gossops Green

2010-01-07T17:41:00.001Z

Congratulations to the all those who managed to get to St. Theodore's for Mass this morning. As you can see the windows of the convent overlook the side windows of the Church - well done to the Dominican sisters for resisting the temptation to stay in and watch from the warm. Their courage was rewarded: thank you to Roy for ensuring the Church heating was on when we got there.

Farewell Father

2010-01-07T09:06:00.001Z

Following his ordination to the priesthood in Crawley Parish last Saturday Fr Andrew returned to his Canon Law studies in Canada this week - where he will probably find less snow! He thanks the parishioners for the many gifts and best wishes received, and looks forward to being with us again in April.

Friary Cut Off

2010-01-06T12:06:00.001Z

This morning the road leading to the Friary was closed as one of the huge trees in the neighbouring church yard had fallen across Haslett Avenue West - the Friary can be seen peering under the now horizontal fir. The good news is that the local authorities responded with incredible speed and the tree was cut up in time for the 12.15pm Mass - thank you.

Fr. Andrew's 'First Mass'

2010-01-04T21:06:00.000Z

The parish is very grateful to Fr. Andrew Moss for celebrating the midday Mass today and afterwards offering his First Blessing to members of the parish who had gathered to celebrate with him. Fr. Andrew is pictured with Janet Bailey one of the key organisers of the Ordination Celebration on Saturday.

Ordination of Fr. Andrew Moss

2010-01-02T20:59:00.000Z

The Ordination to the Priesthood of Andrew Moss by Bishop Kieran was a tremendous celebration for the parish and for the diocese. A packed church prayed and sang with great Joy. Fr. Andrew wrote in the booklet:
Thank you to Bishop Kieran for coming to oradin me today. Thank you to the deacons; to the MCs and servers; to the readers; to the musicians and the choir; to all who have helped in the preparation of this Mass. Thank you to all those who have helped me to reach this day, especially my parents and family, spiritual directors, friends and formators. A special thanks to Vocation Director Fr Paul Turner for his support and encouragement over the years.Thank you once again to all at Crawley parish for their generosity and hospitality.
Pictures of the Ordination can be seen at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/crawley-parish/sets/72157623005271887/show/ (with thanks to Francis Fernandes: the Photographer.)

End of Jubilee Year

2010-01-02T20:19:00.000Z

Thank you to the Dominican Sisters who hosted a reception, following the evening Mass, to mark the end of the Golden Jubilee Year Celebrations for St. Theodore's. Gossops Green. Thank you also to Sheila and her co-workers for organising the drinks and nibbles.

Feast of Holy Innocents

2009-12-28T10:52:00.001Z

It was really good to welcome Fr. Anthony home for Christmas: we are very grateful to him for his help over the last few days which enabled the team to 'ease off' a little after the Christmas Day Masses. Fr. Anthony words this morning on fear and its consequences for the Holy Innocents and unborn Children in our own time were very powerful.

New members of the Guild

2009-12-27T14:58:00.000Z

During the Langley Green Mass two of the servers were enrolled in the Guild of St. Stephen. It gave an opportunity to thank all the servers for their important ministry to the community. The new Guild Members are pictured with their medals along some of the others servers.

Feast of the Holy Family

2009-12-27T14:51:00.001Z

During the Mass this morning the Broadfield Community included in our prayers Ann and Dennis, pictured here with their family, who are celebrating their 40th Wedding Anniversary today.

See amid the winter snow

2009-12-18T22:45:00.001Z

As the Friary Church opened this morning it radiated warmth and welcome as the snow lay deep and crisp and even!

St Wilfrids School Liturgy

2009-12-17T20:16:00.000Z

Thank you to the students and staff of our Catholic Secondary School for hosting a wonderful liturgy of reflection and carols. It was also an opportunity to thank Mr. Crocker for his long service as a teacher in the school (and he is still going strong). The new Chair of Governors, Phil Gidman also thanked those Governors who have completed their terns of office - especially the outgoing Chair: Mary Scott. Fr. Simon's beautiful blessing at the end of the liturgy summed up the spirit of the evening and of the season.

Alter Christus - new Video

2009-12-15T18:34:00.001Z

The priests of the Deanery gathered this morning for our monthly meeting. St. Wilfrid's Catholic School, which serves the deanery, had invited us to meet in their Conference Room and we joined a group of Year 10 pupils to watch the Vocations Video Alter Christus. Fr. Paul Turner, the Diocesan Vocations Director, spoke about his work creating the video before leading a discussion. As the film is only 15 minutes long many of the interviews with young people had to be edited. The full interviews can be seen on You Tube at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZhB57E-Ygk (there are nine in all - this links to one of them). The video will be formally launched in the Diocese in the new year. Further details: paul.turner@dabnet.org.

Deacon Andy Moss

2009-12-14T08:43:00.000Z

It is good to have Deacon Andy Moss back home form his studies in Canada. Please keep him in your prayers this week as he goes on his Pre-Ordination retreat. Parishioners are invited to his Ordination to the Priesthood on January 2nd at 12.15pm in the Friary Church.

SVP Christmas Quiz

2009-12-12T22:48:00.000Z

The people of Crawley who are served by our Society of St. Vincent De Paul will benefit greatly from the very successful Parish Quiz Night held in the Friary Hall this evening. Thank you to the Buckell Family for all their hard work and to all those who attended. Congratulations to the Winning Team and to the Clergy & Friends team who were highly placed!

Broadfield & Pound Hill 1st Reconciliation

2009-12-12T16:23:00.001Z

Thank you to the Catechists who arranged the Broadfield Liturgy this morning and the Pound Hill Liturgy this afternoon. It was good to see parents, family and friends also celebrating the Sacrament of Reconciliation - an important part of our Advent Preparations.

St. Francis School Liturgy

2009-12-11T14:29:00.001Z

It was good to welcome the children of St. Francis Primary School to the Friary Church for their annual celebration of Carols and readings. After an introduction and welcome by Andrew Bragazna, Chair of Governors, the children led us through the scene's leading up to the Birth of Christ. Fr. Simon presided and was joined by Mgr. Tony, Fr. Chris and Deacon Andrew. Thank you to Mrs Connor and the staff, parents and supporters of the school for all they did to make it such an uplifting liturgy.

OLQH Advent Service

2009-12-11T12:54:00.001Z

Our Lady Queen of Heaven Primary School Langely Green, celebrated an Advent Penitential Service this morning led by Fr. Chris. The children were very engaged in the liturgy and afterwards many of them celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Thank you to Mr. Burke and the staff for making it possible.

2009-12-09T08:26:00.000Z

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception

2009-12-08T14:15:00.001Z

This eveving, at 8pm in the Friary Church, the parish are gathering for a time of pray and procession in honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The evenign will conclude with a time of exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction. All are wlecome.

Pound Hill Grand Draw

2009-12-07T14:01:00.001Z

There was a real party atmosphere for the Grand Raffle Draw in St. Edward's Club. Thank you to George Powell, Mike Buckell and all who helped raise funds for the new Chapel at our Catholic Secondary School: St. Wilfrid's. Pictured alongside Fr. Simon & Mgr. Tony are some of the pupils who helped make the draw. Unfortunately Nicholas had to leave before the picture was taken - he spoke of behalf of all the pupils in prise of the chapel and in gratitude to the whole community.

..and then the Friary Fayre

2009-12-05T14:19:00.000Z

Thank you to Min and her co-workers from the Friary and Tilgate for organising a great Fayre with lunch as a very popular part of the day. Thanks also to the tremedous number of people who supported it by donating beforehand, buying tickets and attending on the day. It will be a great boast to the funding of the Friary Redevlopment.

First Confessions - Langley Green / Gossops Green

2009-12-05T11:50:00.001Z

Congratulations to the children from the Langley Green and Gossops Green Communities who celebrated the Sacrament of Penance for the first time this morning. As Fr. Simon said it was an important time not just for them but for their communities who will also feel the benefit. (The cross pictured above is from the Reconciliation Room at Our Lady Queen of Heaven, Langley Green).

Langley Green Fayre

2009-12-04T20:39:00.000Z

Thank you to Tony & Team for making this evenings Langley Green Fayre such a great social event for the parishioners and local community. Thanks also to those who attended and / or bought tickets for the raffle: and congratulations to the 15 people who won some great prizes donated by local firms and individuals.

St. Francis Fayre

2009-12-01T10:19:00.000Z

Congratulations to the PFA, some of whom are pictured with Mrs Connor (Headteacher), and to the whole community at St. Francis Primary School for a very successful Fayre - which brought together the community and brought in funds for the benefit of the Children. Thank you to all who helped and all who came.

Parish Crib in Town

2009-11-29T15:59:00.001Z

The Parish Crib has been erected in Queens Square and passers by were soon admiring it and speaking about the Nativity Scene: a tremendous reminder of the meaning of Christmas in the middle of our busy town. Thank you to the Knights of St. Columba for making it happen and to the Weald Choir who sang carols in the Band Stand as the KSC were constructing it.

Friary Tilgate First Confessions

2009-11-28T11:43:00.000Z

Please pray for the children from the Friary / Tilgate Communities who this morning celebrated the Sacrament of Penance for the first time. We pray for them, and their families, that they may continue to avail themselves of this great gift from God.

St. Wilfrid's Friday Mass

2009-11-27T07:09:00.000Z

Each Friday St. Wilfrids, our Catholic Secondary School, hosts a Mass in their chapel for the parish to attend. At the suggestion of students and staff today's Mass Intention was for deceased members of the school community. So many attended that the chapel had to be in 'extended' model. After Mass Mr. Morris (pictured) invited visitors to stay for coffee and an opportunity to share memories. Thank you to Jack Reegan and all who helped organise it.

St. Francis School Prepare

2009-11-26T07:53:00.000Z

Thank you to the Children and Staff of St. Francis, one of our parish primary schools, for a lovely liturgy preparing for the beginning of Advent this coming weekend.

Bernard Brown R.I.P.

2009-11-22T08:26:00.001Z

Please remember in your prayers Bernard Brown, a long standing and well known parishioner at the Friary 9.30am Mass, who died this week shortly after his 86th birthday. May he Rest in Peace.

The Ministry of Reader

2009-11-20T09:29:00.000Z

Over the last few weeks Barbara Hopper, the Diocesan Liturgy Adviser and part of the Pastoral Team at DABCEC, has been coming to help our Readers. She has been very generous in giving up so many evenings to enable the readers to meet in small groups. A parishioner rang the parish office this morning and commented on how helpful, and enjoyable, the sessions have been. Thank you to everyone who has shown such great commitment to this ministry and especially to Barbara for her expertise and support.

Parish Bereavement Group

2009-11-15T15:21:00.001Z

Thank you to the Parish Bereavement Support Group for arranging the service in Our Lady's Church during which prayers were offered for those who have gone before us in faith - and those who mourn their loss. The group meets regularly in Langley Green and is open to anyone who would like to attend. Details in the Newsletter.

Bishop's Pastoral Letter

2009-11-15T08:20:00.000Z

The Bishop's Pastoral Letter, played today at each of the Masses, can be read by following the link: http://www.dabnet.org/Bishop/PastoralMessages/2009/

The Seminarians

2009-11-14T08:58:00.001Z

Thank you to 'The Seminarians' for a great evening of music at St. Bernadette's, Tilgate. John and Daniel, students from St. John's Seminary at Wonersh, played their repertoire ranging from upbeat folk tunes to meditative instrumental chant. The leaflet promised something for all the family to enjoy and the evening was just that. Thank you also to John's family and to Alison and the Tilgate Team for the refreshments and hospitality.

Deanery Mass for Deceased Clergy

2009-11-10T14:35:00.000Z

The priests of the Deanery gathered in the Friary Church to concelebrate the 12.15pm Mass which was offered for the deceased priests and deacons who have served in our parishes. Please remember in your prayers: Archbishop Couve de Murville, Revv. Gregory Williams, Stuart Bell, Michael Walsh, Jim Kenny, Bill Timmons, Arthur Woolmer, Herbert Fincham, Bernard Josie, Andrew Convey, Paul Baker, Gordon Brayshaw, Lynton Shields, Richard Frost, Ian Stuart-Setton, Peter McPolan, Stephen Hunde, James Barraud, Lawrence Fitzpatrick, Oswald Charlton, Bernard Rowley, Michael Lane, Joe Candy, Edmund Daly and the deceased Friars of Crawley. May they rest in Peace.

Remembrance Sunday

2009-11-08T14:27:00.002Z

At the all Masses this Sunday we pray for those who lost their lives in the World Wars and in Conflict since. May they rest in peace.

Books of Remembrance

2009-11-07T10:33:00.000Z

In each of the Churches of the parish Books of Remembrance have been placed. Parishioners and visitors are invited to add the names of those who have gone before us in faith and who will be remembered at Masses during this month of the Holy Souls.

St Francis thanks Governors

2009-11-03T21:49:00.002Z

The Children of St. Francis, one of our two primary schools, had prepared cards to thank Deacon Andrew Bayes, Mrs Sue Nelson and Mr. Ron Eakins for their great work as Governors over a total of 24 years. Mrs Connor, the Headteacher, joined Fr. Simon, in leading the children in prayers of thanksgiving. Mr Malcolm Braganza took the opportunity to introduce the new Governing Body to the Children.

World Youth Day 12 for 011

2009-11-02T21:56:00.001Z

Following a meeting this evening in the Friary hall, during which Fr. Paul and Ray Mooney, the Diocesan Youth Adviser, talked about the next World Youth Day in Madrid in 2011 twelve of our young people have expressed an interest in attending. The real real challenge for them, and the parish, is to help them raise the money needed for the trip.

Welcome New Parishioners

2009-11-01T22:13:00.001Z

This evening it was good to be able to meet with so many of the new parishioners who have moved to Crawley during the last year and to offer them a personal word of welcome.

Blessing of the graves at Snell Hatch

2009-11-01T17:11:00.001Z

Thank you to all who gathered in Snell Hatch Cemetery to pray for those who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith. During the short liturgy, before the blessing of individual graves, Fr. Simon invited us to pray especially for those deceased members of the parish community without family to pray for them.

Family Day

2009-10-25T10:17:00.001Z

Thank you to the Mauritian Community for organising a tremendous Family Day at the Church Christ the Lord, Broadfield. The music for the Mass was outstanding and the feasting and festivities that followed were enjoyed by the huge number of people who attended.

Curry Night

2009-10-24T11:45:00.002+01:00

Congratulations to all those whose excellent organisation made the Curry Night such a stunning social success. It was tremendous to have so many parishioners socialising together. Very many thanks to all who cooked, ran the bar, sold tickets, towards this event, cooks, barmen, ticket sellers, donated raffle prizes, the band and all who came to the Curry Night. We made £2061.50 for the Refurbishment Fund – a great result Thank you also to the pupils from St. Wilfrid's School who provided great musical entertainment.

Congratulations Natalie & Sean

2009-10-24T09:50:00.000+01:00

Congratulation to Natalie & Sean who returned to Our Lady Queen of Heaven, Langley Green, for a Mass of Thanksgiving with the community following their wedding in Ireland.

Welcome Back Canon Seamus

2009-10-21T09:57:00.000+01:00

It was great to welcome back Canon Seamus Hester - the first diocesan parish priest of the Friary and Tilgate. He has been very much in the prayers of the parish during his illness and it was good to see if looking so well. He wanted to see the new Friary and sends his congratulations to everyone involved as well as his gratitude to the parish for its prayerful support of him.

St. Wilfrid's - top 20%

2009-10-15T12:11:00.000+01:00

St Wilfrid’s is delighted to report that the DCFS has placed the school in the top 20% of schools nationally in terms of ‘Value Added’. This is a measure which takes in to account the academic levels of achievement that students enter the school with judged against their actual attainment in Yr 11 (i.e. GCSEs & equivalent). In short it is a measure of student progress. This is a critical measure of a school’s effectiveness as it describes the school’s impact, including student progress in English & Maths, throughout a child’s learning career at the school.

Welcome Finn O'Driscoll

2009-10-11T12:25:00.001+01:00

Congratulations to the O'Driscoll family on the Baptism of Finn at the Friary Church.

Bernadette Connor's Induction

2009-10-03T12:05:00.000+01:00

During the Vigil Mass of St. Francis (one of our Patronal Feasts) Bernadette Connor was Inducted as the New Headteacher of St. Francis of Asissi Catholic Primary School. Thank you to the Children, Parents, Governors and Community who made it such a wonderful celebration.
Pictured: Jonathan Morris (Head St. Wilfrid's, Fr. Simon, Mary Reynolds (Diocesan Director of Education), Mgr. Tony, Bernadette Connor, Fr. Chris and Bill Connor.

2009-10-02T21:26:00.000+01:00

Congratulations to some of our parishioners at St. Wilfrids School who have been comssioned as Extordinary Ministers of Communion. A bit thank you to Fr. Terry Martin, Parish priest of Horsham, who undertook their preparation.

RIBA Award

2009-10-01T12:08:00.000+01:00

Congratulations! - to Deirdre Waddington, architect for the refurbishment of the Friary. Deirdre was Joint Winner of the Downland Prize, Community Section for her work at the Friary. The prize is given by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and celebrates the added value that an architect can bring to a relatively small project. We are delighted that Deirdre's dedication and hard work has been recognised in this way. A copy of the certificate issued can be seen on the notice board.

Golden Jubilee

2009-09-20T21:24:00.000+01:00

The Church of St. Theodore of Canterbury celebrates it 50th Anniversary. Following an outdoor party in the grounds of the convent Mass is celebrated in the Church. The following day the community returned to the church for an hour of Exposition followed by Benediction.

Our Dominican Sisters

2009-09-12T21:28:00.000+01:00

The Prioress General of the Dominican Missionary Sisters, and her Assistant Sr Kamfwa Mutale OP, are visiting our Sisters in Kenya. On 12th September 2009, Sr Ferrera and Sr Kamfwa joined the Sisters in this part of the Congregation for a triple celebration. It was the opening and blessing of our Formation House, the 11th anniversary of the presence of the Sisters in Kenya and the silver jubilee of one of the pioneer Sisters, Sister Maureen Lombe.
Throughout this visit Srs Ferrera and Kamfwa also take time to share in the life and work of the Sisters, in the schools, the hospital and multiple social projects. Most of the Children you see on these pictures are from our orphanages and our schools. During this time Sr Ferrera and Sr Kamfwa also take time to evaluate and plan the possibilities in which Sisters can continue to preach the Good News through their life and Mission in Kenya.

Ordination to the Diaconate

2009-07-17T09:53:00.000+01:00

Deacon Andy Moss would like to express to the parish community his heartfelt thanks for the many cards and gifts received on the occasion of his ordination to the diaconate, as well as his appreciation for the generosity shown by Crawley parishioners in helping with the event.

More Pictures: http://www.flickr.com/photos/crawley-parish/sets/72157621519548471/show/

New Chapel

2009-07-08T21:30:00.000+01:00

Thank you to all those whose generosity and support means that our new Secondary School now has a beautiful chapel. Bishop Kieran has consecrated the Altar and blessed the Chapel. For pictures of the Chapel in usual mode and extended mode (as it prepared for the consecration) please clike here: More Pictures.

Canon Heaney

2009-07-05T21:33:00.000+01:00

Congratulations to Canon Ollie Heaney, formerly Parish Priest of St. Edward's, Pound Hill, who has been made a Canon of Arundel Cathedral. Many parishioners were delieghted to join him for Vespers in the Cathedral during which he was installed.

Time Capsule

2009-03-21T21:39:00.000Z

A 'time capsule' has been sealed into the walls of the Friary Church. It containes a number of Newspaper and publications from the parish, the diocese and nationals along with various items of information about the parish as it is in 2009.