Blessed Robert Grissold Catholic Church
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Welcome to the website of Blessed Robert Grissold Catholic Church in Balsall Common. Here you can find details of the parish, our latest newsletter, services and sacraments offered by the Church and, in our parish archive, the events we have held. As a parish we value your privacy. Please follow the link here to learn more about the privacy policy that covers all catholic churches in the Archdiocese of Birmingham,
Father Frank writes
In today’s Gospel Jesus calls us to love our enemies - to love like the God in whose image and likeness we were originally created. Humanity has made itself the enemy of God through its sinfulness - our turning our backs on the way of God’s love. This is seen most keenly in the way humanity treated God’s beloved Son. Yet God loves us. He loves us as we are, but he loves us too much to let us stay as we are. His love wants to transform us, more and more, into the likeness of Jesus, who is true the image of God and who loved his enemies - praying for those who crucified him: “Father, forgive them, they don’t know what they are doing.”
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We were made by God and created for God - to know him and love him forever. So we are happy now if we are poor - poor in the sense of knowing our poverty with regard to the riches of the life for which God has created us. We are happy because this knowledge of our poverty allows us to realise our absolute need of God which leads us to turn to him in trust - trusting in his power to save us. And God does not disappoint those who turn to him in trust.
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After the miraculous catch of fish, which we hear about in the Gospel today, Peter realised, as never before, his own sinfulness and the holiness of Jesus. He asked Jesus to depart from him but Christ showed him that his sins and weaknesses would not prevent him from sharing in his work. While our sinfulness humbles us we should not let it get us down or make us feel that we do not belong to the company of Christ. Christ came to “call sinners.” He is known as the “friend of sinners” - he comes to help us to overcome our sins. That is why, with confidence, we can come before him in the Mass to confess our sins.
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Mary the Mother of Jesus lovingly and willingly united herself to her Son’s sacrifice on the Cross, sharing
in his self-giving for our salvation and redemption. That is why several Popes have called Mary Co-Redemptrix. Mary
teaches us to have faith. If our faith is week, we should turn to Mary. Jesus dying on the Cross bequeaths his mother
to all mankind and especially to all his disciples.
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In today’s Gospel Jesus says: “A man’s words flow out of what fills his heart.” Lent begins on Wednesday - Ash Wednesday - with the Blessing and Imposition of the Ashes. The Church’s season of Lent is an opportunity for us to go deeper into what is at the heart of our lives and what should be first in our hearts. It’s a season in which we are invited to grow in our awareness of those things that blind us to the truth about ourselves and the truth about Christ. Lent is an opportunity to notice the “plank” in our own eye that prevents us seeing clearly how to love God and how to love our neighbour as our self. And it is only by seeing clearly that we can act and speak lovingly. On Ash Wednesday, a day of penance, abstinence and fasting, we enter into the joyful season of Lent - joyful because it is a time established for the purification of our souls and the renewal of our hearts.
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Can we trust the Gospel accounts of what Jesus said and did and of who he claimed to be? Luke, Gentile doctor, Christian convert and missionary companion to St Paul, seems to have no doubts. In the prologue to his Gospel he describes the received teaching as “well founded.” and his confidence is in no small part due to the fact that the accounts of Jesus’ life and mission which had been handed down, were the work of those who, from the outset, were “eyewitnesses.” So we can reliably learn what Jesus said and did, and about who he claimed to be, by attending to the Gospels.
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Love and marriage are very much in the air in our readings today. The scriptures reveal how God created us in order that we might know and love him. God delights in us or, as Isaiah in our first reading puts it: ‘As the bridegroom rejoices in his bride so will your God rejoice in you.’ Two become one in marriage and God created us so that we might be united with him in love - and our God is passionate about our being made one with him - So passionate that he gives himself totally for us in Christ who is born among us to win our love and devotion. This is the greatest love story ever told. Christ reveals the God of love to us in order that we might fall in love with him and so, like him, be prepared to leave all to be wedded to him.
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Today we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, and we leave behind the touching scene of the crib. Jesus has moved from the helpless infant of Bethlehem to a grown man who takes upon himself a tremendous burden and responsibility. The burden is the weight of the sins of humankind. The responsibility is to make reparation for those sins.
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Today, with the holy Church of God throughout the world, we celebrate the great Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord. Epiphany means “manifestation” and it was made manifest to the Magi, who were led from afar by a bright star, that Jesus came, not just for the people of Israel but for everyone. This feast draws us away from the temptation to confine the mystery of the Christmas celebration to our own private world and interests. For the Church, Epiphany is a call and a challenge to never become narrow and inward-looking but to remember that, as the baptised, our vocation is to be a light for all people.
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In today’s Gospel Luke relates the story of the Visitation and it involves the encounter of two pregnant women. Mary, who is from Galilee, journeys to Judea, the place where, one day, the son she is carrying will be cruelly rejected and condemned to die. At Mary’s greeting, Elizabeth’s child in her womb “leapt for joy.” Joy is the first response to the coming of the Messiah. Preparing for the great celebration of the Nativity of the Lord means experiencing the joy of knowing that our God is the God who comes to us - the God who gives himself for us because he loves us.
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John the Baptist, who we hear about in today’s Gospel, marks the end of the time of waiting and the beginning of the new age in Jesus. John is the last of the great prophets; for a long time, the people had been without a messenger from God but in John the Baptist the people discovered an end to God’s silence. Through John, they could hear the word of God. We are told that many went out from the towns and cities to see John - which is testimony to his charismatic power to attract people - such is the powerful attraction of the word of God alive and active in a person.
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The invitation to welcome the God who comes to us in Christ and to cast away empty living is repeated in the liturgy of the Second Sunday of Advent. The Opening Prayer of the Mass asks that no earthly undertaking hinder those who set out in haste to meet Christ. And today we hear the lonely voice of John the Baptist who exhorts us to prepare a way for the Lord. May our faithfulness to the Spirit of Advent create a space so that the Lord can come to us.
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As we begin Advent our thoughts are guided, through the liturgy, to the coming of Christ - his first coming to us in humility and weakness and his second coming in majesty and power. The description of the Second Coming of Christ should not fill us with fear, rather we should look forward to it and prepare for it through prayer and right living
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The feast of Christ the King, which the holy Church throughout the world celebrates today, brings to a close the Church’s liturgical year. Our image of a monarch tends to be of one who lives a privileged life and lords it over others. Christ our King is not like that. He came to serve, not to be served and he wants us to imitate him in his loving service of others. That is why, as St. John of the Cross said: “In the evening of life we shall be examined on love.” If to love and to serve our neighbour is heavenly, hell is the suffering of one who can no longer love.
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Faith in the God of love can bring great happiness and confidence for “perfect love casts out all fear.” The warnings about the end times in the Scriptures are meant to be a source of hope for us, not fear, for “Christ, by his death and resurrection, has achieved our sanctification.” All we need to do is to place our trust in Christ and so be able to make the words of today’s psalm our own: “You will show me the path of life, the fullness of joy in your presence.”
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Today in the Gospel we hear the story of the “Widow’s Mite.” The mite was the tiniest coin in circulation. In the Temple the rich were giving from their loose change, but the widow, out of her extreme poverty, gave everything she had: two small coins. Although poor and in need of the few coppers she had, she never hesitated, never counted the cost. She gave everything to God. The widow became famous, not because she gave so little but because, in her extraordinary generosity, she gave so much.
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Through liturgy and worship, formation, evangelisation and social outreach, the Diocesan Vision calls us to work for the renewal of the Church. The then Cardinal Ratzinger, later Pope Benedict XVI, insisted that, “The true celebration of the Sacred Liturgy is the centre of any renewal of the Church whatever.” This is why the New Evangelisation must be founded on the faithful and fruitful celebration of the Sacred Liturgy as passed down and presented to us by the Church in her tradition. This is because it is in the Sacred Liturgy, especially in the Mass - the source and summit of the Church’s life, that we encounter the saving action of our Lord Jesus Christ in the most profound way. Liturgy for us in the Church is not just a series of actions or rituals but an encounter with the living Christ who alone offers perfect worship to God and who draws all people to himself through the Sacrifice of the Cross made present in the Eucharist.
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October is the month of the Rosary, and we have prayed a decade of the Rosary at each Mass during October as a gentle reminder, if it is needed, of the great riches that are to be had in this form of prayer. Padre Pio, the holy saint who received the stigmata, loved to pray the Rosary. He always kept his Rosary beads in his hand. Because he prayed it almost constantly, he was known as the ‘living Rosary.’ One day his superior asked him how many Rosaries he had prayed that day. Wanting to be respectful and honest with his superior he told him: “I have prayed thirty-four Rosaries today.” On another occasion a follower asked him to teach him a prayer that was most pleasing to our Blessed Lady. Without hesitation, he insisted that none is more beautiful or pleasing than the Rosary. And he further instructed him: “Always say the Rosary. The Rosary is a weapon in our hands.” Near the end of his life, he didn’t talk much and when people sought his advice or help, he would simply show them the Rosary. Let us follow St Pio’s example and always have our Rosary with us.
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October is the month of the Rosary, and the Rosary is Trinitarian and Christ-centred, but it is also a Marian prayer. In the Rosary, we are happy to praise the mother of Our Lord Jesus Christ in the words of the Archangel Gabriel and her cousin Elizabeth: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women.” And in the Rosary, we meditate and reflect on the important events in Our Lord’s life through the eyes of Mary. Another prayer that makes the Rosary Marian is the concluding prayer - the “Hail Holy Queen.” But the two most important prayers of the Rosary are the Lord’s Prayer and the Hail Mary. As St. Louis de Montfort said: “How could there possibly be any more pleasing prayers to Almighty God and the Blessed Virgin, or any that are easier, more precious or more helpful than these two prayers?”
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October is the month of the Rosary, a rich and complete form of prayer. In the first place it is “Trinitarian”. We begin the Rosary with the sign of the Cross as we invoke the Three Persons of the Most Holy Trinity: “In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.” We then recite the Apostles Creed, which calls to mind each of the Divine Persons in turn: “I believe in God the Father Almighty…and in Jesus Christ his only-begotten Son…I believe in the Holy Spirit”. And each decade of the Rosary concludes with the Trinitarian prayer: “Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit”. The Rosary is also Christ-centred, for the mysteries of the Rosary upon which we meditate are the mysteries of Christ’s life. And in every “Hail Mary” prayed, we honour Christ by saying: “Blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus”.
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October is the month of the Rosary, a rich and complete form of prayer. In the first place it is “Trinitarian”. We begin the Rosary with the sign of the Cross as we invoke the Three Persons of the Most Holy Trinity: “In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.” We then recite the Apostles Creed, which calls to mind each of the Divine Persons in turn: “I believe in God the Father Almighty…and in Jesus Christ his only-begotten Son…I believe in the Holy Spirit”. And each decade of the Rosary concludes with the Trinitarian prayer: “Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit”. The Rosary is also Christ-centred, for the mysteries of the Rosary upon which we meditate are the mysteries of Christ’s life. And in every “Hail Mary” prayed, we honour Christ by saying: “Blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus”.
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October is the month of the Rosary - a form of prayer which has been practiced and encouraged by saints and Popes down through the ages. More importantly, it is a prayer that has been urged by Our Blessed Lady herself. Mary appeared to St Dominic and instructed him to use the Rosary in combating heresy. In the apparitions in Lourdes in 1858, Our Lady appeared with the Rosary in her hand and recited it together with Bernadette. And in Fatima, in 1917, she appeared again holding the Rosary and encouraged the faithful to be diligent in praying the Rosary. It was at Fatima that Mary identified herself as “the Lady of the Rosary” and asked for the “Fatima prayer” to be said after each decade: “O my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of Hell and lead all souls to Heaven, especially those in most need of your mercy.”.
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The Gospel today presents us with a lesson in humility. Whilst the disciples were arguing amongst themselves about who was “the greatest”, Jesus was arguing for being “last of all” and “servant of all” and Jesus backs up his words with his actions, for that is exactly what he became. He washes his disciples’ feet, the work of a slave, and he dies the death of an outcast criminal. And he wants us to share in his way of humility because it is the way of the God who stoops low to gather us into his kingdom.
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“Who do people say I am?” - This is the question posed to his disciples by Jesus in today’s Gospel. But more important is the question he poses to Peter: “But you, who do you say I am?” for this is a question posed to all of us too. So who is Jesus for us? Is he just a fine example of what it means to be a thoroughly decent human being or is there more to him than that? Is he, in fact, divine, the Son of God, the Second Person of God, the Most Holy Trinity made flesh? How we answer this question will determine how we respond to him and his message. It will deeply affect the way we live our lives, for if we truly believe that he is the Messiah and Son of God then why wouldn’t we make every effort to get to know him and his will for us and strive to live accordingly?
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St. James reminds us in our second reading today that we should not have a higher regard for those who are well-dressed and well-heeled. For him such an attitude is incompatible with faith in the one who washed the feet of his own disciples and who said: “Anyone who wants to become great among you must be your slave.” Discrimination against the poor, or partiality towards the wealthy, is seriously at odds with the teaching of Christ who, though equal with God, made himself poor so that we might be rich.
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Whilst people are often caught up with appearances, God looks on the heart. That’s why when He began His preaching Jesus said: “Set your hearts first on the Kingdom of God.” Like the Prophets of old Jesus calls for conversion of the heart rather than mere conformity to external standards and laws. This is not to say that the external customs and tradition of the Church are unimportant – far from it – The Christian faith is Incarnational. The Gospel of Christ is an affair of the heart that must be fleshed out in our daily life.
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The Gospel reading today points up the vital significance of the Eucharist. The fundamental importance of the Eucharist for the life of the Church can be seen in the words of St Irenaeus: “Our teaching is in accordance with the Eucharist, and the Eucharist, in turn, confirms our teaching.” The Fathers of the Church perceived the Eucharist as the revelation and fulfilment of the entire mystery of the salvation of the world by Christ and therefore of the entire content of the Christian faith. No wonder, therefore, that the Catechism teaches that the Eucharist is the ‘source and summit of the Christian life.’
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In today’s Gospel Jesus is teaching us what he wants us to know concerning the Eucharist and he says things that his followers find hard to accept. Nevertheless, this is his teaching and he insists that he is the “bread of life,” that “comes down from heaven,” that “anyone who eats this bread will live for ever,” and the “bread” he gives is his “flesh” which he gives “for the life of the world.” And Christ’s “flesh,” his Body, is the “bread from heaven” we feed on in the Mass today.
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The journey to the God of life is not an easy task. We tend to get lost along the way and we are discouraged by the efforts we have to make. On their way to the promised land, the Jewish people turned against Moses - their difficulties made them yearn for a mediocre but familiar existence. Freedom frightened them, slavery being more familiar seemed more secure. This is the temptation of every believer and this is why Jesus says to his disciples: “Do not be afraid.”
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After receiving Holy Communion, Mother Teresa prayed that God would give her the grace to radiate Christ to the people she moved among after being sent out from the Mass. This was her prayer: “Dear Jesus, help me to spread your fragrance everywhere I go. Flood my soul with your spirit and life. Penetrate and possess my whole being so utterly that my life may only be a radiance of yours. Shine through me, and be so in me, that every soul I come in contact with may feel your presence in my soul. Let them look up and see no longer me, but only Jesus!” In this prayer we can see what is at the heart of the Archbishop’s vision for the Diocese - the worship and prayer of the Eucharist, the source of our Christian life, forming us for mission, evangelisation and social outreach.
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In the Gospel today Jesus says to his Apostles that they should come away to some lonely place all by themselves and rest for a while for there was so much coming and going that the Apostles had no time even to eat. So Jesus takes them off to a lonely place where they could be with Him by themselves. Jesus still invites us to find quiet and rest in His presence especially through Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Our Lord Jesus Christ is present in the Most Blessed Sacrament of the Altar. He invites us, He is waiting, He is longing for us to spend time with Him. Coming to Him just as we are. Love lives with Jesus present in the Most Blessed Sacrament. Through this Sacrament Jesus shares with us all that belongs to Him.
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The disciples had already responded to the Lord’s call to them to “Come” and follow him, now Christ commands them to “Go.” The kingdom of God is at hand and the call is urgent. They are instructed to travel light. They were not to rely on their own resources but on the bountiful providence of God. Their simplicity of life would help them to remain unencumbered by distractions and help them to stay focused wholly on their mission.
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By referring to himself as a prophet in today’s Gospel, Jesus identifies himself with the long line of Old Testament prophets who suffered rejection or violence because of the unpopularity of their message. The failure of the people of his home town to accept him and his message anticipates the more general rejection of those who will hand him over to be crucified: “He came to what was his own, but his own people did not accept him.”
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Today the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul. Peter, the brother of Andrew, the Galilean fisherman who was called by the Lord to be the leader of the Twelve. Paul, the tent-maker from Tarsus, a Pharisee and a Roman citizen who was called to be the Apostle of the Gentiles. Jesus’ key question, addressed to Peter and the disciples in today’s Gospel, is addressed to all who are called to be Christ’s disciples. The key question is who Jesus is for us.
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St Paul, in our second reading today, tells us that, “For anyone who is in Christ, there is a new creation: the old creation has gone, and now the new one is here.” St John in his Gospel puts it like this: “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Those in Christ have been given the power to be children of God, because they have been re-born, created anew, born from above - born not by natural generation, nor by human choice, nor by man’s decision, but of God. Such is the nature of our supernatural life in Christ - a life which is a light to the world. A life we need to nurture if we are to be effective in evangelisation and mission.
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In today’s Gospel we hear Jesus telling Parables of the Kingdom. The first declares that the growth of the Kingdom resembles the mysterious process of nature; so too the growth of the Kingdom is equally mysterious, as God’s ways always are. A second parable, that of the Mustard Seed, stresses the enormous potential of the Kingdom in spite of its tiny beginning. A parable, from the Greek word meaning “laid alongside,” can be seen as an earthly story with a heavenly meaning.
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The Gospel of Christ is something so radically good and new that it can be difficult to accept - even by those who are closest to Jesus. The Gospel today tells us that Jesus’ own relatives thought he was “out of his mind.” And others accuse him of siding with Satan and with those who oppose God. They do not have “eyes to see” or “ears to hear” and so his message seems like foolishness or worse - like blasphemy against God - Such is their blindness and deafness to the true God who lives and speaks in Christ.
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Today’s feast turns our thoughts to the sacred mysteries of the Eucharist, and one of the peculiarities of the Eucharistic feast is that we, the Church, become the Body of Christ through our partaking of Christ’s Body and the consequence of our assimilation to the Body of Christ is that, like Christ, we become spiritual food for the life of the world, to be broken, given away and consumed. The Eucharist makes the Church, by making the Church Eucharist.
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We are not to approach God, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, one God in three Persons as a mathematical puzzle or a philosophical problem but, rather, as the Divine community of love whom we are called to know and enjoy for ever, for the one God, who has revealed Himself as Trinity, has made us for himself - to know and enjoy him forever. That is why, in and through sacred mysteries which we celebrate in the Eucharist, he gathers us to himself so that, by grace, we might share in the life and love of the Most Holy Trinity for ever.
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Today the Church of God throughout the world celebrates the Solemnity of Pentecost. It is God’s Spirit who inspires us to obey God’s commandments. All who love God experience the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit. He counsels us and reminds us of what Jesus has said. The Holy Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility and self-control. As we thank God today for the gift of his Holy Spirit let us pray that our Christian discipleship manifests these fruits of God’s Spirit
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The Gospel today invites us to celebrate the mystery at the heart of our salvation: God longs for us to be united with him, and with one another, in love. The readings from John typically rejoice at the Good News that we are truly loved by God - the God who is love. And God’s great love is revealed most powerfully in the life death, resurrection and ascension of Our Lord Jesus Christ and is made truly present in the Most Holy Sacrament of the Altar.
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Jesus calls us to follow his example in choosing to give ourselves in love, even when it hurts for this is the kind of love that mirrors God’s love. Authentic love is about self-giving - this cannot be accomplished in our own strength - but we can choose to try, confident that our efforts will be backed by God’s energetic and all-conquering love.
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Through the Eucharist we make our home in Christ who describes Himself in today’s Gospel as “the true vine.” He is the “vine” and we are the “branches” which feed on His life in and through the miracle of the Mass. The Mass is vital to the Church’s mission and evangelisation, indeed, as St John Fisher once stated “When someone observes with attention the periods of spiritual flourishing of the Church and the times of degeneration as well he must realise this: the cause of degeneration in the Church is almost always the negligence and abuse of this most holy Sacrament of the Altar. On the opposite side however he will notice this: the times of genuine reform and the flourishing of the life of the Church were always preceded by a tender devotion to this most holy Sacrament.”
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Today is World Day of Prayer for Vocations. We pray for an increase in vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and religious life and that all believers will be faithful to their baptismal vocation. To follow Christ is to love him, to trust him, to serve him and to do his will - which is also what it means to be faithful to our vocation. Christ, the Good Shepherd, tells us that his sheep follow him “because they recognise his voice.” We have to learn to distinguish the voice of the one true God from the voices of the many false gods and idols which call to us today.
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The consequences of the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ do not end with Easter Day. For those for whom the power of the Resurrection was a first-hand experience, it affected the rest of their lives. Today we remember that the Resurrection was a dynamic and transforming experience for the friends of Jesus and we pray that it may be so for us also.
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Today is Divine Mercy Sunday. Humankind not only receives and experiences the mercy of God, but is also called to practice mercy towards others. “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” It is to this end that we receive the transforming Spirit of God - the Holy Spirit, who through the power of God’s great loving mercy, transforms our interior life in order that it might radiate outwardly and be a transforming power in the world.
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Christ has risen. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all the joy of Easter. Today, with the Holy Church of God throughout the world, we proclaim and celebrate the truth which is foundational to our Christian faith, that on the third day Christ rose from the dead. And Christ, the Risen One, does not depart from us but returns to greet us with his peace and to remain with us until the end of time. And we share his peace and rejoice in his presence in the Mass.
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Holy Week begins today and it is the most important week in the Church’s calendar. Holy Week opens with Palm Sunday when we carry palm crosses in procession to commemorate the Lord’s entrance into Jerusalem. During Holy Week we celebrate the Easter Triduum, comprising the liturgies of Holy Thursday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil (on Holy Saturday evening). The liturgy of Holy Thursday commemorates the institution of the Eucharist at the Last Supper, also there is the Washing of Feet in remembrance of our Lord’s example of humble service. On Good Friday we celebrate the Lord’s Passion and venerate the Cross. The wonderful liturgy of the Easter Vigil is celebrated on Saturday of Holy Week with the blessing and preparation of the Easter Candle and the celebration of Our Lord’s Resurrection. The celebration of Easter Sunday completes the celebrations we have prepared for during Lent. These sacred liturgies shine forth as the high point of the Church’s year. The Paschal Triduum is at the heart of all that it means to be the Church and we owe it to ourselves as Christians to be present at these key moments in the life of the worshipping community, for the sacred mysteries, which we celebrate on these three days, are not only the most beautiful liturgies of the Church’s calendar, they are also the axle on which the rest of the liturgical year turns.
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Jesus calls us to serve him and follow him - to conversion. To turn away from sin - from all that harms our relationship with God and with our neighbour and to turn toward him, to serve him, do his will, to be faithful to our baptismal vocation. Conversion is a gift from God, won for us through the sacrifice of Christ and we must ask for it through fervent prayer in order that we might know the power of Christ’s Resurrection working in our lives.
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Today is Mothering Sunday and so we give thanks to God for our mothers and for all who are mothers in our community. May God bless you in your high calling, remembering that the greatest of the saints, Our Blessed Lady, was, like you, a mother and that through loving devotion to her calling attained to the heights of holiness.
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The Father loves and liberates but in today’s Gospel we see how his house can become ‘a market place’ where people are exploited. Jesus’ protest and rejection of the trading taking part in the Temple affects powerful interests: the interests of those who have replaced God (without denying God openly) by greed, which Paul calls ‘idolatry.’ Paradoxically, this subtle and insidious substitution is often justified by religious arguments. None of us is immune from this. The Gospel today invites us to examine our conscience both at the personal level and as members of Christ’s Church. Through Christ we are the temple of the Holy Spirit. Lent is an opportunity for us to cleanse the temple of our lives from all that harms and diminishes us and those around us.
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Today in the Gospel we hear how the apostles Peter, James and John were given a glimpse of Christ’s glory on the Mount of the Transfiguration - the same glimpse of glory that we are all given when we gather for the Mass, for in and through the sacred mysteries of the Eucharist we ascend to the heavenly places where, with Angels and Archangels and all the host of heaven, we worship the Beloved Son of God who sits at the right hand of the Father. God, the Holy Spirit, gathers us into the cloud of his glory. We listen to him in the scriptures. We feed on him in the Sacrament of the altar. No wonder the disciples “kept silence.” “Master, it is wonderful for us to be here.”
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Today is the First Sunday of Lent, the season when the Church prepares for Easter, the greatest of her celebrations. During the season of Lent we are encouraged to grow in the life of Christ and to deepen and strengthen our relationship with God. The Church leads and assists us in this through encouraging our participation, in an ever more intense and fruitful way, in the liturgies of the Church and in penitential celebrations. In order to aid us in our Lenten endeavours I have arranged for instruction, devotions, times for meditation and prayerful reflection (please see details below) and there will be opportunities for people to make their confession.
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At the time of Jesus, lepers were treated as social and ritual outcasts. They were not welcome in society or in the Temple. Therefore the leper in today’s Gospel makes a bold move in approaching Jesus. Jesus makes him “clean” enabling him to be accepted as part of the worshipping community and revealing to us how God, in Christ, is reconciling the world to himself. No one is outside the welcoming love of God.
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The healings and exorcisms of Jesus are a visible manifestation that the Kingdom of God is breaking into and conquering the world - that all things are being made new in and through Christ. The Gospels see illness as part of our fallen human condition which Jesus comes to heal and make whole.
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In Mark’s Gospel Jesus’ first miraculous work is an exorcism whereby he casts out an ‘unclean spirit’ - a demon. By this action Jesus’ announcement of the coming of God’s Kingdom becomes perceptible and concrete. Throughout the public ministry of Our Lord, Mark shows Jesus progressively dismantling the powers of darkness as he advances his assault on Satan’s kingdom. Those who witness Jesus’ words and actions are astonished for he teaches with authority. Also, it should be noticed that the presence of Christ draws the evil spirit out into the open. In the presence of Jesus the grip of evil on the man comes to light and he cries out in rage, challenging Jesus encroachment on the demon’s formerly uncontested territory. St Leo XIII wrote the following prayer to strengthen us and to gain the Archangel’s protection in the spiritual battle against the Devil and his evil influence.
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In today’s Gospel reading we see how Jesus begins his public life with an exhortation to repent because the kingdom of heaven, or in Mark’s version the kingdom of God, is at hand. This warning prompted by love is addressed to all, for no one is without sin. Yet no matter how many wounds our human nature has sustained, we are never justified in giving way to despair, for the Lord, in his great love for us, pours out his compassion abundantly on all who need it.
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Today’s Gospel conducts us to the River Jordan. This was the holy place where first century Judeans expected to see the Messiah come. It was also at this place that the people, long ago, crossed over into the promised land. Today’s story finds us here at this holy place, where John the Baptist is proclaiming Jesus to be the Lamb of God - the One who takes away the sins of the world, the One we are to follow.
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Today, with the holy Church of God throughout the world, we celebrate the great Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord. Epiphany means “manifestation” and it was made manifest to the Magi, who were led from afar by a bright star, that Jesus came, not just for the people of Israel but for everyone. This feast draws us away from the temptation to confine the mystery of the Christmas celebration to our own private world and interests. For the Church, Epiphany is a call and a challenge to never become narrow and inward-looking but to remember that, as the baptised, our vocation is to be a light for all people.
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The Feast today reminds us that God’s revelation and the outworking of his loving purposes takes place in the context of human families. In today’s readings we see how God begins a new work in the world through Abraham and Sarah, in the Old Testament and through Mary and Joseph, in the New Testament. Both couples faithfully trusted in God’s promises and saw them come to fulfilment - such is the faithfulness and mercy of God.
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Safeguarding
The Parish follows the safeguarding standards advised by The Archdiocese of Birmingham. You can view these standards by following the link here.
A link to the Archdiocese safeguarding website can be found here.
Safespaces is a free and independent support service, providing a confidential, personal and safe space for anyone who has been abused by someone in the Church or as a result of their relationship with the Church of England, the Catholic Church in England and Wales or the Church in Wales. If you have been affected, however long ago, Safe Spaces can provide you with support. You do not have to have told the police or the church authorities, and you do not have to still be involved with the church. Your information will not be shared without your consent unless you or someone else is in immediate danger. To contact Safespaces, please follow the link to their website here.
The Isaiah Journey The Isaiah Journey is a working group of the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales which has grown out of the need for a pastoral-spiritual response to the suffering of victims and survivors of abuse in the Church. It provides A Guide for Survivors of Abuse that can be found here.
The Safeguarding Rep for our Parish is Monica Green and she can be contacted via email at sg.brg.balsallcommon@rcaob.org.uk.
The Parish follows the safeguarding standards advised by The Archdiocese of Birmingham. You can view these standards by following the link here.
A link to the Archdiocese safeguarding website can be found here.
Safespaces is a free and independent support service, providing a confidential, personal and safe space for anyone who has been abused by someone in the Church or as a result of their relationship with the Church of England, the Catholic Church in England and Wales or the Church in Wales. If you have been affected, however long ago, Safe Spaces can provide you with support. You do not have to have told the police or the church authorities, and you do not have to still be involved with the church. Your information will not be shared without your consent unless you or someone else is in immediate danger. To contact Safespaces, please follow the link to their website here.
The Isaiah Journey The Isaiah Journey is a working group of the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales which has grown out of the need for a pastoral-spiritual response to the suffering of victims and survivors of abuse in the Church. It provides A Guide for Survivors of Abuse that can be found here.
The Safeguarding Rep for our Parish is Monica Green and she can be contacted via email at sg.brg.balsallcommon@rcaob.org.uk.
Parish Events
Looking for the rest of the Parish Event List? We have archived the list from our old site but you can still view them here.
Date
| Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 10.12.2025 | Fr. Hudsons Carol Service | We are invited to the charity’s carol service, led by Archbishop Bernard Longley, at 11.30am on Wednesday 10th December. Further details on the noticeboard. |
| 07.12.2025 | Parish Planned Giving | Following last week’s presentation by Ian Clarke about Planned Giving, our volunteers will be available after Mass today to assist with standing order and Gift Aid forms. |
| 07.12.2025 | 100 Club | Stefan Hunka and Ken Higgins will be in the Narthex after Mass today if you wish to sign up for the 100 Club. The next draw will take place on 10th December |
| 07.12.2025 | Collection in memory of Maureen Carroll | We are collecting donations for Fr. Hudsons Caritas in memory of Maureen, who died earlier this year. Envelopes will be available on 7th December; donations will be collected after mass on 14th December. There will also be a collection at the Carol Service. |
| 07.12.2025 | Second Collection today | There will be a collection today for the poor parishes of the diocese. |
| 30.11.2025 | Tuesday Masses | Please note the new start time for Tuesday masses – 10.00 am. Mass on the First Tuesday of each month will be followed by Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament with Benediction at 11:00am |
| 30.11.2025 | Thank You | Thank you to all those who supported the Save the Children Fayre last week. A total of £1,668 was raised, including £47.50 from the sale of cakes after Mass. Julia Greensall |
| 29.11.2025 | Quiet Morning | Churches Together in Balsall and Berkswell are holding a Quiet Morning, led by Rev’d Kathryn Darby, Methodist Minister on Saturday 29th November, 10am to 12 noon (coffee available from 9.30 am) at The Old Hall, Temple Balsall (adjacent to the church). If you wish to attend, please contact Doug Timmis on 01676 543346 – limited places available. |
| 23.11.2025 | Knitted Prayer Cloths | There are some small, knitted prayer cloths at the back of the church, that have been knitted by a member of our congregation. Each one has a blessing for you in every stitch. The church hopes you can find comfort in using these whenever you feel the need. There is no charge, but donations are welcome |
| 22.11.2025 | Save the Children Christmas Fayre | This will be held in our Parish Room on Saturday 22nd November from 10.00am to 2.30pm. Hand-crafted items and gifts will be on sale. Refreshments available. Entry is free. If you would like to donate cakes, raffle or tombola prizes (or help in any way), please contact Julia Greensall on 07855 843 914. |
| 16.11.2025 | Holy Souls | Throughout November Masses for the Holy Souls will be offered, and we will pray for those whose names have been placed before the altar. |
| 12.11.2025 | Parish Coffee Morning | Our next Coffee morning will be in the Narthex at 10.30am on 12th November with coffee, buns and good conversation available in abundance. If you haven’t been before, give it a try - you will be made very welcome! |
| 10.11.2025 | Jubilee Tour to Westport, Knock & Co Mayo | £799.00 pps. Price includes flight from Birmingham, 10kg hold luggage, 4 nights’ in 4* Castlecourt Hotel, Westport with Dinner, Bed & Breakfast. Full use of leisure facilities. All entertainment, excursions and transport included. Visit Knock Shrine, Ballintubber Abbey, Fr. Peyton Centre & Kylemore Abbey. Irish music nightly. Single supplement on Enquiry. Contact 01268 762 278 or 07740 175557 or email knockpilgrimages@gmail.com. |
| 09.11.2025 | Remembrance Sunday | Today is Remembrance Sunday when we pray for the repose of the souls of all those who have lost their lives because of war, praying especially for local residents who died serving our country. The silence we keep presents us with an opportunity to remember, honour and give thanks to God for all those courageous men and women who have laid down their lives for the sake of others and in defence of what is right and good. |
| 09.11.2025 | Church Deep Clean | Many, many thanks to all who participated in the much-needed deep clean of the church. I was a wonderful turn-out |
| 06.11.2025 | Carols at Hilliers Garden Centre | Berkswell choir will be singing carols at Hilliers Garden Centre on Thursday 6th November between 5.30 pm & 7.00 pm. Please come and join the choir. Contact Emma Bratton on 07977593017. |
| 03.11.2025 | Bereavement Sessions | St Peter’s Church, Balsall Common, is running sessions for anyone bereaved anytime, starting on Monday 3rd NovemberSave the Children Christmas Fayre 1.15pm to 2.45pm. Further details on our church notice board. To book a place please contact Rev’d Suzy Pearson on 07443345584 or email vicar@spcbalsall.org.uk. |
| 02.11.2025 | Change to weekday Mass | There will be no Mass on Tuesday 4th November. This is because Fr Frank has transferred his day off this week in order that we can celebrate All Souls Day on Monday 3rd November, there will be a 6.30pm Mass offered for All the Faithful Departed. |
| 01.11.2025 | Churches together coffee morning | Churches Together Coffee Morning is held the first Saturday of each month (1st November) at the Jubilee Centre, 10.30-12.00. All Welcome. |
| 26.10.2025 | Book of Remembrance | We will be updating the Book of Remembrance in the church and on our website in preparation for All Souls. If you would like anyone to be added, please complete one of the forms in the book and leave it on the lectern. Alternatively, you can email the full name of the person along with the date and month of their anniversary to iehclarke@btinternet.com. |
| 23.10.2025 | St. George & St. Teresa Primary School | St. George & St. Teresa Primary School, Bentley Heath will be having open mornings at 9.15am on the 23rd October and 4th November. |
| 20.10.2025 | Advanced Notice | Fr Frank will be away from the Parish from Monday 20th October until Friday 24th October. There will be no midweek Masses that week. |
| 19.10.2025 | Fr. Frank | Please note that Fr. Frank is away from the parish from Monday 20th October to Friday 24th October. |
| 14.10.2025 | Planned Giving Campaign | The Archdiocese is requesting that every parish engage in a Planned Giving Campaign in order to build faithful communities that are resilient enough to secure the future of our worshipping community and its ability to serve generations to come. This involves us reflecting on the way, as a parish, we give of our time, prayers, talents and financially - and consideration of whether we might be able to share a little more. This is an opportunity for all of us to renew and deepen our commitment to Christ, our parish and to the wider community we serve. The parish needs your commitment, your ideas, your understanding of the parish and your presence at the meeting on 14th October in order to discuss and discern how best we can launch this campaign. In this way, with everyone taking responsibility for the life of our parish, together we will help to ensure that our church remains a place of prayer, welcome, mission and service for years to come. |
| 12.10.2025 | CAFOD Family Fast Day | CAFOD Family Fast Day was Friday 3rd October, Chris Lynn gave a short talk on CAFOD after Mass on Sunday 5th and gave out envelopes - these are still being collected today if you would like to make a donation to help the poorest of the world live with dignity. |
| 05.10.2025 | Thanks to Sara | Sara has now finished her work as Parish Administrator and has started her new job. We wish to thank Sara for all her support and hard work serving both BRG and St Francis. I’m sure we all wish her well with her future career |
| 04.10.2025 | Save the Children Quiz Night | Save the Children Quiz Night (including Baked Potato Supper): Saturday 4th October, 7:00 to 7:30pm in St. Peter’s Hall. Teams of 6. Tickets £14/person. Please see Linda Chesshire for tickets |
| 02.10.2025 | Parish Prayer Group | Prayer Group is held at 4pm to 5pm Thursdays - Everyone is most welcome. |
| 29.09.2025 | 175th Anniversary Lecture | To mark the restoration of the Catholic hierarchy in England and Wales, Oscott College will host a lecture by Rev Dr Ken Carleton (“Silver links changed into burnished gold: the English hierarchy restored”) on Monday 29 September 2025, 7.00–9.15 pm. Attendance is possible in person or online. For booking and details, please see the college website www.Oscott.org |
| 28.09.2025 | Second Collection | There will be a Second Collections today Sunday 28th September for Fr Hudson’s Society. And there will be a CAFOD collection in coming weeks. Thank you in advance for your generosity. |
| 25.09.2025 | Deanery youth work | ‘Gathered’ initiative meeting three times per year. Starting on 25th September at 7.30pm in Whitnash. For any clergy or lay youth leaders, whether or not a group is currently operating. |
| 25.09.2025 | Parish Pastoral Council | There will be a PPC meeting to discuss the Archbishop’s Planned Giving and Stewardship drive on Thursday 25th September at 7pm at BRG. |
| 21.09.2025 | Evangelii Gaudium Sunday (Home Mission Sunday | A message from Abbot Hugh Allan o.praem, Director of Mission at the Catholic Bishops’ Conference: Evangelii Gaudium Sunday calls us to be joyous in proclaiming our faith. “Evangelii Gaudium” is Latin for “Joy of the Gospel”. Commonly known as Home Mission Sunday, a day for us as the Catholic community to celebrate the beauty of our faith, and our shared commitment to witness to the fullness of life in Christ. Celebrating 1,700 years since the Council of Nicaea, the theme for this year is “I believe…”. For more details https://www.cbcew.org.uk/evangelii-gaudium-sunday. The second collection on the 21st is to support the work carried out by the Bishops’ Conference Mission Directorate to support our Church in a wide field of service and mission here in England and Wales. |
| 21.09.2025 | Churches Together in England invites you to support the call to pray for peace in the Middle East on | The coalition is coordinating an act of Christian witness that speaks to a shared commitment to peace, reconciliation, and the dignity of all people. The call to churches across Britain is to pray for peace and coincides with UN World Peace Day and the global call to prayer from the World Council of Churches |
| 21.09.2025 | 40 Days of Life event | Fr Toby Lees OP presents 'Saints and Bible Heroes Who Stood for Life - Inspiration for Today's Mission'. Birmingham Oratory, Upper Hall, 141 Hagley Rd, B16 8UE. 40 Days for Life event but all are welcome. Free entry. Contact Isabel for more details 07773501721 izzyvs@gmail.com |
| 10.09.2025 | Something Greater | Are you being called to be a catechist, or considering another area of ministry? Something Greater could help you to hear more of what God has for YOU! This 8 course session commences 10 September, 7.15pm at St Mary Immaculate, Warwick CV34 6AB. To register please contact canon.david.hartley@rcaob.org.uk |
| 07.09.2025 | Wardens / Welcomers required | We are updating our church wardens list of people who welcome parishioners to church every Sunday, and we need more helpers. Please consider helping, it only comes around every nine weeks. Please see Joe after Mass if you are willing to help or ring him on 01676534916. |
| 07.09.2025 | Saint John Henry Newman | We share in the Archbishop’s joy and celebration that Saint John Henry Newman Oratorian, Cardinal, Scholar, Teacher, Pastor, Prophet, Saint is now also to be a Doctor of the Church. This title is given to Saints who have made a significant contribution to theology or doctrine through their research, study or writing. This is especially good news for us he had a close association with the Parish of St Francis. For more information on this announcement, please see the noticeboard. |
| 07.09.2025 | Harvington Hall Pilgrimage | Harvington Hall Pilgrimage will take place on the afternoon of Sunday 7 September. Archbishop Bernard is now the main celebrant for full information visit: https://www.birminghamdiocese.org.uk/Event/harvington-hall-pilgrimage |
| 26.08.2025 | Diocesan Novena to pray for the Canonisation of Blessed Dominic Barberi | The Novena of Prayer lasts for nine days starting on 18 August and concluding on his Feast Day on 26 August. This Feast will be celebrated at the 7pm Mass at Blessed Robert Grissold on Tuesday 26th August. All are welcome. |
| 26.08.2025 | Novena Prayer for the Canonisation of Blessed Dominic Barberi | O God, who so lovingly raised Blessed Dominic to the heights of holiness, learning and apostolic zeal and made him a powerful minister of your mercy, listen to our humble request. We pray that you will in your goodness, grant a miracle through the intercession of Blessed Dominic, so that the Church may further honour him on earth and that many more people will come to know and invoke the help of this faithful servant of the Church. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen. Mary, Mother of Holy Hope, Pray for Us. Saint John Henry Newman, Pray for Us. Blessed Dominic Barberi, Pray for Us. |
| 24.08.2025 | Local mental health support | If you live in Birmingham or Solihull and you’re feeling sad, worried or lonely, we have a safe space to chat. Text the word ‘Space’ to 85258 to talk about your feelings with a mental health professional. |
| 24.08.2025 | Readers needed | Having lost several readers, we need to recruit new members urgently. Please speak with Godfrey Chesshire after Mass if you are willing to join the team. |
| 17.08.2025 | Martyrs’ Walk | The Martyrs Walk will take place in Warwick on Sunday 17th August, in commemoration of the Warwick Martyrs Blessed John Sugar, Blessed Robert Grissold and Blessed William Freeman. Please see the poster on the noticeboard for further details. |
| 15.08.2025 | Parish Office operation resumed | Parish office hours Parish office hours resumed on 15th August |
| 15.08.2025 | Marking the End of World War II in the Pacific: | On Friday 15th August, gatherings were held at 10am at Temple Balsall Cemetery Lych Gate and 11:30am at Berkswell War Memorial. |
| 10.08.2025 | New Appointments for Archbishop | Pope Leo has appointed Archbishop Bernard Longley as a member of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity and as a member of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue. Archbishop Bernard is already Chair of the Bishops’ Conference Department of Dialogue and Unity, and in May was appointed Vice-President of the Bishops Conference of England & Wales. |
| 03.08.2025 | Foundation Governors | The Diocesan Education Service has launched a new promotional video to support recruitment of Foundation Governors or Directors for Catholic schools. Opportunities are available across the Archdiocese, and all skills and backgrounds are welcome. Visit the diocesan website for more information: https://www.birminghamdiocese.org.uk/News/could-you-be-a-foundation-governor-or-director-at-your-local-catholic-school |
| 31.07.2025 | Doctor of the Church | On 31st July, Pope Leo made the announcement that the title Doctor of the Church has been conferred upon St John Henry Newman. This title is given to Saints who have made a significant contribution to theology or doctrine through their research, study or writing. |
| 27.07.2025 | Thank You | Dominic and Teresa would like to extend their sincere thanks to all friends and parishoners for the prayers and kind words for ‘Baby Jack Green.’ Jack’s first surgery was successful and he is recovering well. |
| 25.07.2025 | WeBelieve | WeBelieve is a Catholic festival celebrating the Jubilee Year of Hope taking place from 25-28 July at Oscott College, Birmingham. It will be a mixture of talks, praise, worship, family activities, workshops and opportunities for mass, reconciliation and adoration. There are day tickets as well as weekend tickets available and looks to be a great event catering for everyone, from practising Catholics to those curious about the faith and wanting to know more. https://www.webelievefestival.com/ |
| 20.07.2025 | Maureen Carroll (RIP) | Maureen’s funeral will take place at Blessed Robert Grissold, with her Requiem Mass taking place on Thursday 24th July 11:30 am. Please pray for Maureen, her family and friends |
| 20.07.2025 | Claire Laland (RIP) | Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of much admired local resident, Claire Laland, who recently died. |
| 09.07.2025 | Parish Coffee Morning | The next parish coffee morning will take place in the Narthex on Wednesday 9th July at 10:30 – tea, coffee, scones, cake and good conversation in abundance – everyone welcome to join us. |
| 06.07.2025 | Diocesan Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes Hednesford | Diocesan Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes Hednesford on Sunday July 6th: Confessions (2:15-3:45); Rosary (3pm); Mass & Sacrament of the Sick (4pm) - Celebrant Bishop Timothy Menezes. Please bring your own chairs. For further information contact: Fr Jeremy Howard, 07868 542268 or email fr.jeremy.howard@rcaob.org.uk |
| 05.07.2025 | Wedding of Simon Bagshaw and Rebekah Smith | Fr Frank and Sandra are delighted to share that their daughter Rebekah married Simon at Blessed Robert Grissold on Saturday 5th July. It was such a blessed and special occasion. Thank you to everyone who helped support and wish the family well. Please pray for Rebekah and Simon as they begin their married life together. |
| 29.06.2025 | Father Hudson’s Caritas altar talk | Following mass on Sunday June 29th Father Hudson’s Caritas will give an informative talk on their extensive work in the community |
| 29.06.2025 | First Holy Communion | Last Sunday was the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ and we had many children receiving their first Holy Communion. It was such a wonderful occasion and lovely to see so many people gathered to celebrate this important moment in the Communicants’ faithful journey. Thank you to everyone who helped to make it such a special time. Congratulations to all the first Communicants. To see the photos, please click on the link |
| 24.06.2025 | Kenilworth Parish Pilgrimage to Lourdes | The Kenilworth Parish Pilgrimage to Lourdes is on 24th-28th June 2025. For further details and booking contact Peter Rand on 01926 852163 or peter.rand@btinternet.com. Bookings and deposits required by 9 March to guarantee flights. |
| 20.06.2025 | Third Reading of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill | Third Reading of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, which seeks to legalise assisted suicide, will likely take place on either the 13th or 20th of June. Catholics, and all people of goodwill, are urged to contact their MP and ask them to vote against this bill. You are also asked to pray that our representatives choose to protect the most vulnerable citizens of this country when they vote later this month. |
10.12.2025
We are invited to the charity’s carol service, led by Archbishop Bernard Longley, at 11.30am on Wednesday 10th December. Further details on the noticeboard.
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07.12.2025
Following last week’s presentation by Ian Clarke about Planned Giving, our volunteers will be available after Mass today to assist with standing order and Gift Aid forms.
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07.12.2025
Stefan Hunka and Ken Higgins will be in the Narthex after Mass today if you wish to sign up for the 100 Club. The next draw will take place on 10th December
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07.12.2025
We are collecting donations for Fr. Hudsons Caritas in memory of Maureen, who died earlier this year. Envelopes will be available on 7th December; donations will be collected after mass on 14th December. There will also be a collection at the Carol Service.
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07.12.2025
There will be a collection today for the poor parishes of the diocese.
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30.11.2025
Please note the new start time for Tuesday masses – 10.00 am. Mass on the First Tuesday of each month will be followed by Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament with Benediction at 11:00am
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30.11.2025
Thank you to all those who supported the Save the Children Fayre last week. A total of £1,668 was raised, including £47.50 from the sale of cakes after Mass. Julia Greensall
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29.11.2025
Churches Together in Balsall and Berkswell are holding a Quiet Morning, led by Rev’d Kathryn Darby, Methodist Minister on Saturday 29th November, 10am to 12 noon (coffee available from 9.30 am) at The Old Hall, Temple Balsall (adjacent to the church). If you wish to attend, please contact Doug Timmis on 01676 543346 – limited places available.
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23.11.2025
There are some small, knitted prayer cloths at the back of the church, that have been knitted by a member of our congregation. Each one has a blessing for you in every stitch. The church hopes you can find comfort in using these whenever you feel the need. There is no charge, but donations are welcome
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22.11.2025
This will be held in our Parish Room on Saturday 22nd November from 10.00am to 2.30pm. Hand-crafted items and gifts will be on sale. Refreshments available. Entry is free. If you would like to donate cakes, raffle or tombola prizes (or help in any way), please contact Julia Greensall on 07855 843 914.
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16.11.2025
Throughout November Masses for the Holy Souls will be offered, and we will pray for those whose names have been placed before the altar.
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12.11.2025
Our next Coffee morning will be in the Narthex at 10.30am on 12th November with coffee, buns and good conversation available in abundance. If you haven’t been before, give it a try - you will be made very welcome!
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10.11.2025
£799.00 pps. Price includes flight from Birmingham, 10kg hold luggage, 4 nights’ in 4* Castlecourt Hotel, Westport with Dinner, Bed & Breakfast. Full use of leisure facilities. All entertainment, excursions and transport included. Visit Knock Shrine, Ballintubber Abbey, Fr. Peyton Centre & Kylemore Abbey. Irish music nightly. Single supplement on Enquiry. Contact 01268 762 278 or 07740 175557 or email knockpilgrimages@gmail.com.
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09.11.2025
Today is Remembrance Sunday when we pray for the repose of the souls of all those who have lost their lives because of war, praying especially for local residents who died serving our country. The silence we keep presents us with an opportunity to remember, honour and give thanks to God for all those courageous men and women who have laid down their lives for the sake of others and in defence of what is right and good.
|
09.11.2025
Many, many thanks to all who participated in the much-needed deep clean of the church. I was a wonderful turn-out
|
06.11.2025
Berkswell choir will be singing carols at Hilliers Garden Centre on Thursday 6th November between 5.30 pm & 7.00 pm. Please come and join the choir. Contact Emma Bratton on 07977593017.
|
03.11.2025
St Peter’s Church, Balsall Common, is running sessions for anyone bereaved anytime, starting on Monday 3rd NovemberSave the Children Christmas Fayre 1.15pm to 2.45pm. Further details on our church notice board. To book a place please contact Rev’d Suzy Pearson on 07443345584 or email vicar@spcbalsall.org.uk.
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02.11.2025
There will be no Mass on Tuesday 4th November. This is because Fr Frank has transferred his day off this week in order that we can celebrate All Souls Day on Monday 3rd November, there will be a 6.30pm Mass offered for All the Faithful Departed.
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01.11.2025
Churches Together Coffee Morning is held the first Saturday of each month (1st November) at the Jubilee
Centre, 10.30-12.00. All Welcome.
|
26.10.2025
We will be updating the Book of Remembrance in the church and on our website in preparation for All Souls. If you would like anyone to be added, please complete one of the forms in the book and leave it on the lectern. Alternatively, you can email the full name of the person along with the date and month of their anniversary to iehclarke@btinternet.com.
|
23.10.2025
St. George & St. Teresa Primary School, Bentley Heath will be having open mornings at 9.15am on the 23rd
October and 4th November.
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20.10.2025
Fr Frank will be away from the Parish from Monday 20th October until Friday 24th October. There
will be no midweek Masses that week.
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19.10.2025
Please note that Fr. Frank is away from the parish from Monday 20th October to Friday 24th October.
|
14.10.2025
The Archdiocese is requesting that every parish
engage in a Planned Giving Campaign in order to build faithful communities that are resilient enough to secure
the future of our worshipping community and its ability to serve generations to come. This involves us
reflecting on the way, as a parish, we give of our time, prayers, talents and financially - and consideration of
whether we might be able to share a little more. This is an opportunity for all of us to renew and deepen our
commitment to Christ, our parish and to the wider community we serve. The parish needs your commitment,
your ideas, your understanding of the parish and your presence at the meeting on 14th October in order to
discuss and discern how best we can launch this campaign. In this way, with everyone taking responsibility for
the life of our parish, together we will help to ensure that our church remains a place of prayer, welcome,
mission and service for years to come.
|
12.10.2025
CAFOD Family Fast Day was Friday 3rd October, Chris Lynn gave a short talk on CAFOD after Mass on Sunday
5th and gave out envelopes - these are still being collected today if you would like to make a donation to help the
poorest of the world live with dignity.
|
05.10.2025
Sara has now finished her work as Parish Administrator and has started her new job. We wish
to thank Sara for all her support and hard work serving both BRG and St Francis. I’m sure we all wish her well
with her future career
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04.10.2025
Save the Children Quiz Night (including Baked Potato Supper): Saturday 4th October, 7:00 to 7:30pm in St. Peter’s
Hall. Teams of 6. Tickets £14/person. Please see Linda Chesshire for tickets
|
02.10.2025
Prayer Group is held at 4pm to 5pm Thursdays - Everyone is most welcome.
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29.09.2025
To mark the restoration of the Catholic hierarchy in England and Wales, Oscott College will host a lecture by Rev Dr Ken Carleton (“Silver links changed into burnished gold: the English hierarchy restored”) on Monday 29 September 2025, 7.00–9.15 pm. Attendance is possible in person or online. For booking and details, please see the college website www.Oscott.org
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28.09.2025
There will be a Second Collections today Sunday 28th September for Fr Hudson’s Society. And there will be a CAFOD collection in coming weeks. Thank you in advance for your generosity.
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25.09.2025
‘Gathered’ initiative meeting three times per year. Starting on 25th September at 7.30pm in
Whitnash. For any clergy or lay youth leaders, whether or not a group is currently operating.
|
25.09.2025
There will be a PPC meeting to discuss the Archbishop’s Planned Giving and Stewardship drive on Thursday 25th September at 7pm at BRG.
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21.09.2025
A message from Abbot Hugh Allan o.praem,
Director of Mission at the Catholic Bishops’ Conference: Evangelii Gaudium Sunday calls us to be joyous in
proclaiming our faith. “Evangelii Gaudium” is Latin for “Joy of the Gospel”. Commonly known as Home Mission
Sunday, a day for us as the Catholic community to celebrate the beauty of our faith, and our shared commitment to
witness to the fullness of life in Christ. Celebrating 1,700 years since the Council of Nicaea, the theme for this year is “I
believe…”. For more details https://www.cbcew.org.uk/evangelii-gaudium-sunday. The second collection on the 21st
is to support the work carried out by the Bishops’ Conference Mission Directorate to support our Church in a wide
field of service and mission here in England and Wales.
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21.09.2025
The coalition is coordinating an act of Christian witness that speaks to a shared commitment to peace,
reconciliation, and the dignity of all people. The call to churches across Britain is to pray for peace and coincides
with UN World Peace Day and the global call to prayer from the World Council of Churches
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21.09.2025
Fr Toby Lees OP presents 'Saints and Bible Heroes Who Stood for Life -
Inspiration for Today's Mission'. Birmingham Oratory, Upper Hall, 141 Hagley Rd, B16 8UE. 40 Days for Life event
but all are welcome. Free entry. Contact Isabel for more details 07773501721 izzyvs@gmail.com
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10.09.2025
Are you being called to be a catechist, or considering another area of ministry? Something Greater could help you to hear more of what God has for YOU! This 8 course session commences 10 September, 7.15pm at St Mary Immaculate, Warwick CV34 6AB. To register please contact canon.david.hartley@rcaob.org.uk
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07.09.2025
We are updating our church wardens list of people who welcome parishioners to church every Sunday, and we need more helpers. Please consider helping, it only comes around every nine weeks. Please see Joe after Mass if you are willing to help or ring him on 01676534916.
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07.09.2025
We share in the Archbishop’s joy and celebration that Saint John Henry
Newman Oratorian, Cardinal, Scholar, Teacher, Pastor, Prophet, Saint is now also to be a Doctor of the
Church. This title is given to Saints who have made a significant contribution to theology or doctrine
through their research, study or writing. This is especially good news for us he had a close association with
the Parish of St Francis. For more information on this announcement, please see the noticeboard.
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07.09.2025
Harvington Hall Pilgrimage will take place on the afternoon of Sunday 7 September. Archbishop Bernard is now the main celebrant for full information visit: https://www.birminghamdiocese.org.uk/Event/harvington-hall-pilgrimage
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26.08.2025
The Novena of Prayer lasts
for nine days starting on 18 August and concluding on his Feast Day on 26 August. This Feast will be celebrated at the 7pm Mass at Blessed Robert Grissold on Tuesday 26th August. All are welcome.
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26.08.2025
O God, who so lovingly raised Blessed Dominic to the heights of holiness, learning and apostolic zeal and
made him a powerful minister of your mercy, listen to our humble request. We pray that you will in your
goodness, grant a miracle through the intercession of Blessed Dominic, so that the Church may further
honour him on earth and that many more people will come to know and invoke the help of this faithful
servant of the Church. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.
Mary, Mother of Holy Hope, Pray for Us. Saint John Henry Newman, Pray for Us. Blessed Dominic
Barberi, Pray for Us.
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24.08.2025
If you live in Birmingham or Solihull and you’re feeling sad, worried or
lonely, we have a safe space to chat. Text the word ‘Space’ to 85258 to talk about your feelings with a
mental health professional.
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24.08.2025
Having lost several readers, we need to recruit new members urgently. Please speak with Godfrey Chesshire after Mass if you are willing to join the team.
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17.08.2025
The Martyrs Walk will take place in Warwick on Sunday 17th August, in commemoration of the Warwick Martyrs Blessed John Sugar, Blessed Robert Grissold and Blessed William Freeman. Please see the poster on the noticeboard for further details.
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15.08.2025
Parish office hours Parish office hours resumed on 15th August
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15.08.2025
On Friday 15th August, gatherings were held at 10am at Temple Balsall Cemetery Lych Gate and 11:30am at Berkswell War Memorial.
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10.08.2025
Pope Leo has appointed Archbishop Bernard Longley as a member of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity and as a member of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue. Archbishop Bernard is already Chair of the Bishops’ Conference Department of Dialogue and Unity, and in May was appointed Vice-President of the Bishops Conference of England & Wales.
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03.08.2025
The Diocesan Education Service has launched a new promotional video to support recruitment of Foundation Governors or Directors for Catholic schools. Opportunities are available across the Archdiocese, and all skills and backgrounds are welcome. Visit the diocesan website for more information: https://www.birminghamdiocese.org.uk/News/could-you-be-a-foundation-governor-or-director-at-your-local-catholic-school
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31.07.2025
On 31st July, Pope Leo made the announcement that the title Doctor of the Church has been conferred upon St John Henry Newman. This title is given to Saints who have made a significant contribution to theology or doctrine through their research, study or writing.
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27.07.2025
Dominic and Teresa would like to extend their sincere thanks to all friends and parishoners for the prayers and kind words for ‘Baby Jack Green.’ Jack’s first surgery was successful and he is recovering well.
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25.07.2025
WeBelieve is a Catholic festival celebrating the Jubilee Year of Hope taking place from 25-28 July at Oscott College, Birmingham. It will be a mixture of talks, praise, worship, family activities, workshops and opportunities for mass, reconciliation and adoration. There are day tickets as well as weekend tickets available and looks to be a great event catering for everyone, from practising Catholics to those curious about the faith and wanting to know more. https://www.webelievefestival.com/
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20.07.2025
Maureen’s funeral will take place at Blessed Robert Grissold, with her Requiem Mass taking
place on Thursday 24th July 11:30 am. Please pray for Maureen, her family and friends
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20.07.2025
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of much admired local resident, Claire
Laland, who recently died.
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09.07.2025
The next parish coffee morning will take place in the Narthex on Wednesday 9th July at 10:30 –
tea, coffee, scones, cake and good conversation in abundance – everyone welcome to join us.
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06.07.2025
Diocesan Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes Hednesford on Sunday July 6th: Confessions (2:15-3:45);
Rosary (3pm); Mass & Sacrament of the Sick (4pm) - Celebrant Bishop Timothy Menezes. Please bring your own chairs.
For further information contact: Fr Jeremy Howard, 07868 542268 or email fr.jeremy.howard@rcaob.org.uk
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05.07.2025
Fr Frank and Sandra are delighted to share that their daughter
Rebekah married Simon at Blessed Robert Grissold on Saturday 5th July. It was such a blessed and special occasion.
Thank you to everyone who helped support and wish the family well. Please pray for Rebekah and Simon as they
begin their married life together.
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29.06.2025
Following mass on Sunday June 29th Father Hudson’s Caritas will give an
informative talk on their extensive work in the community
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29.06.2025
Last Sunday was the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ and we had many children receiving their first Holy Communion. It was such a wonderful occasion and lovely to see so many people gathered to celebrate this important moment in the Communicants’ faithful journey. Thank you to everyone who helped to make it such a special time. Congratulations to all the first Communicants. To see the photos, please click on the link
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24.06.2025
The Kenilworth Parish Pilgrimage to Lourdes is on 24th-28th June 2025. For further details and booking contact Peter Rand on 01926 852163 or peter.rand@btinternet.com. Bookings and deposits required by 9 March to guarantee flights.
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20.06.2025
Third Reading of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, which seeks to legalise assisted suicide, will likely take
place on either the 13th or 20th of June. Catholics, and all people of goodwill, are urged to contact their MP and ask
them to vote against this bill. You are also asked to pray that our representatives choose to protect the most vulnerable
citizens of this country when they vote later this month.
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Parish Calendar
