I am the Handmaid of the Lord

This Saturday afternoon 12 young people from the parish will be celebrating their confirmation. This is a truly important day for them as they will given a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Please do remember them in your prayers, not only today but as they grow in faith and confidence as disciples of Jesus.

They are:

  • Emily Rose,
  • Solomon Francis,
  • Natalia Anna,
  • Aaron William,
  • Alexander,
  • Madeleine,
  • Niamh,
  • Chibuikem,
  • Massimo,
  • Danielle,
  • Annika,
  • Tia Ariana.

On this Fourth Sunday of Advent the gospel is the Annunciation. When Mary asks the angel, “But how can this come about, since I am a virgin?” the angel replies,  “The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the Most High will cover you with its shadow.”

The Holy Spirit comes upon these young people today so that they not only have Jesus in their hearts but the Holy Spirit given them afresh that they now have the courage to share Christ with others. They can be a powerful witness through their words and actions to the reality of Jesus.

As Mary said “I am the handmaid of the Lord, let what you have said be done to me.” So too these young people will be able to say the same. This is their Yes, their Fiat. There are one or two young people not on the list who have deferred receiving the Sacrament till next year.

I would like to thank the catechists, Linda, Fran, Graeme and Chris who have helped and guided them and to their families who continue us to support them in their life of faith.

Canon Father Anthony Charlton
Canon Father Anthony CharltonParish Priest