On Sunday 26th October we commemorated 40 years since the first Mass was celebrated in our church. Fr Keith showed us the newsletter from that day, 6th October 1985, and there were a handful of people in the congregation who had also been there at the first Mass, including Chris Barry, who played the organ at the first Mass and has played regularly ever since. She was even playing last Sunday.
St Philip Evans Parish 40th Anniversary Celebrations
November 6, 2025
On Sunday 26th October we commemorated 40 years since the first Mass was celebrated in our church.
After Mass we went into the Hall for a shared lunch. The food reflected the parish's international membership and was delicious. I'm sure no-one went home hungry. In fact, there was some food left over after we had all taken what we wanted. Nothing was wasted, it was parcelled up by Tracey and Howard, or H as we know him, and shared with 7 families-in-need living close to the church.
During the festivities we presented Chris Barry with a card and a bouquet of flowers. Fr Keith will celebrate four Masses for her intentions as a mark of gratitude for her long-standing service and commitment to our church.
We also took the opportunity to present a voucher as a token of gratitude to Deacon Steve, marking his 25th anniversary of being made a Deacon. He's spent 15 years in our parish, for which we are very grateful. Anyone who missed the opportunity to contribute to the secret collection could still contribute now, just put the donation in an envelope marked for Deacon Steve and hand it to one of the welcomers at the entrance to the church at the Saturday evening and Sunday morning Masses. We presented a bouquet of flowers to Jan, his wife, in recognition of her unwavering support to Deacon Steve and to our parish herself.
Thanks to Sheri for designing the eye-catching poster, Geraldine for baking the beautiful cake, to Barbara for helping with the preparations beforehand, even though she couldn't come, to Stephen Bailey for the photos, to Cynthia (Swaine) for keeping the hot water coming for teas and coffees and coping with the relentless washing up through the afternoon and to Cynthia (Ogbonna) for helping in the kitchen too. Thanks to Joan and Ada for distributing the cake. Thanks to Tracey and H for helping set everything out, the Hall looked lovely. They even cleared up after us.
Lastly, thanks to all who came and all who helped in so many other ways, making the day such a memorable event.
Sara Hayes
Biblical Art Competition for Half Term: “Divine Designs: Between the Covers”
The campaign to tackle the global debt crisis continues to gather momentum, as parishes across England and Wales stand in solidarity with communities most affected. Last year, 500 parishes joined the global Church’s call to address the growing debt crisis that is having a devastating impact on low-income countries. We extend our sincere thanks to all the parishes in the Archdiocese of Cardiff-Menevia that took part in this vital effort. Pope Francis repeatedly called for action during the Jubilee Year, inspiring a powerful response. More than 44,000 people signed CAFOD’s petition, demonstrating a strong commitment to justice and global solidarity. Encouragingly, 2025 brought hopeful signs of progress, and this year we are building on that momentum.
Ordinary Time begins after the Christmas and Epiphany season, pauses for Lent, and then resumes after Pentecost, continuing until Advent. During this time, the Church focuses on the life and teachings of Jesus, especially on Sundays. Week by week, we listen to the Gospel readings, which help us come to know Christ more deeply. Ordinary Time reminds us that our faith is lived not only in special seasons, but in everyday life. It is a time to grow as disciples, allowing Christ to be present in all we do. As we take part in Sunday Mass and hear the Word of God, may it strengthen our faith, draw us closer to God, and inspire us to live with love and charity each day. The Cycle of Prayer: During Ordinary Time (Summer, up to September) We are asked to pray for these intentions: A Deeper Understanding between Christians and Jews; Those who Suffer Persecution, Oppression and Denial of Human Rights; Europe; Human Life; Seafarers.
Over the next two weekends (23rd/24th and 30/31 May), Confessions will not take place before either the Saturday Vigil Mass or the Sunday morning Mass, as these will be First Holy Communion Masses. The Sacrament of Reconciliation will return to its usual schedule on 6th and 7th June . In case of emergency, please contact Fr Keith directly.
Thank you from the U.C.M. We are thrilled to tell you that the last Coffee Morning raised £321.55. This is all thanks to your wonderful support! This money, as always, will be given to Parish funds.
10–14 August 2026 | St John’s Hotel, Solihull
