5th Sunday of Easter
6th May 2007

Calendar:

Saturday: Saints Neraeus & Achillaeus

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Gospel Reflection:
The Essential Christian

Christianity is observed in so many different churches worldwide and in so many often divergent ways that non-Christians can be excused for wondering what it means to be a Christian. Perhaps this critique of Christianity is justified. Doctrines and dogmas often eclipse the core teachings of the master from Nazareth. Today, within Christianity, diverse cultures and religious traditions come together more frequently and some times clash with each other. Can we still say what the simple message of Christianity is?

John's Gospel answers this question in the form of a new commandment: love one another. Jesus' simple teaching is one of love: love of neighbour, God and even our enemies. It is not doctrine and theology but how we treat one another that will determine our salvation. Jesus is clear on this point: The way Christians live together and help one another will lead others to the Good Shepherd.

A Muslim friend of mine defined Islam as the religion of faith, Judaism as the religion of hope and Christianity as the religion of love. Let us celebrate the Mass, the memorial of God's love for all people, and receive nourishment to receive 'the new commandment'. In this way God will continue to make all things new.

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Fr. Bob Dueweke 'Novalis' May 2007
FIRST COMMUNION DAY - 2007

Next Sunday - please remember that there will be mass at 12 noon at which 10 of our children will be making their First Holy Communion and that the Parish Centre will not be available for Tea and Coffee after the 10.30 mass.

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ALL SAINTS PASTORAL CENTRE
QUIET DAYS OF REFLECTION

Quiet Days are an essential requirement for everybody. For those who wish to pursue constructively and purposefully a spiritual course then occasions for quiet and reflection must be coveted.

Take the opportunity to explore the place silence and stillness can play in your life at one of the Quiet Days which will be held at All Saints Pastoral Centre, London Colney. Two dates are available in the near future:

2nd June 2007 10.30am - 3-00pm
8th September 2007 10.30am - 3.00pm

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AGM PARISH - PASTORAL COUNCIL

Please note the date - Thursday 17th May at 8.00pm in the Parish Centre. All Welcome.

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Annual Vocations Pilgrimage to Walsingham
Saturday June 16th

Since a Salesian Brother began this Day of Pilgrimage in 1975 there has been a Day of Pilgrimage and Prayer to Walsingham every year. The day has become more an more popular as time has gone on. This year a coach will be departing London Victoria on the above date at 8.00am returning at 8.30pm at a cost of £15.00 per head.

All enquiries to 020 8458 6017 or
enquiries@ukvocation.org

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80th ANNIVERSARY BARN DANCE

The success of the dance evening last weekend was consequent on the enthusiasm and generosity a small team of organisers who had an idea and put it into effect. We are extremely grateful to them. It brought out another side to the social life of the parish. We are thankful too for the proximity of St. Francis' Church Hall which affords us this recreation.
Thanks for all the very generous support that was given by all who came and especially by those who had a part in the fund-raising on the evening!!

A final total of funds raised will be given next week but we are very confident this will be a long way in excess of £1,600. It has already been remarked it is hoped we don't have to wait another 80 years for something similar!!!
Fr. Bernard

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THE MONTH OF MARY

In the tradition to which the parish is accustomed, through the month of May the rosary will be recited in the church every week-day (Mon-Fri) at 7.00pm