Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
It's good to be able to withdraw ourselves from that hustle and bustle and spend a bit of time in silence. Read our reflection and think about the ways in which you can slow things down during this hectic time of year.
It's good to be able to withdraw ourselves from that hustle and bustle and spend a bit of time in silence. Read our reflection and think about the ways in which you can slow things down during this hectic time of year.
Monday, December 29, 2014
Take a bit of time to reflect on who gives us what we want and who gives us what we need at Christmas?
Take a bit of time to reflect on who gives us what we want and who gives us what we need at Christmas?
Sunday, December 28, 2014
Today's effort comes from the blog of Lisa Brown who has come up with a fantastic yet simple representation of the Holy Family.
Today's effort comes from the blog of Lisa Brown who has come up with a fantastic yet simple representation of the Holy Family.
Saturday, December 27, 2014
The idea for this activity came from this blog so be sure to check that out for more crafty ideas in future!
The idea for this activity came from this blog so be sure to check that out for more crafty ideas in future!
Friday, December 26, 2014
Here's our first reflection which might be a little familiar to you guys...
Here's our first reflection which might be a little familiar to you guys...
Sunday, December 21, 2014
Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us...
Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us...
Not to be outdone, St. Cuthbert's have decorated a tree of their own, so large it's nearly scraping the ceiling! We hope Jim got down safely, otherwise he might be stuck on the top instead of the star! Thanks to Luke for the photos.
Not to be outdone, St. Cuthbert's have decorated a tree of their own, so large it's nearly scraping the ceiling! We hope Jim got down safely, otherwise he might be stuck on the top instead of the star! Thanks to Luke for the photos.
We've invited the young people of the parish to come and decorate the church for a few years now but we did it a little bit differently this year. Even so the results were just as impressive and everyone really liked the finished product, as did the rest of the parish when they joined us for the lighting of the tree. Well done every one. Only 4 days to go...
We've invited the young people of the parish to come and decorate the church for a few years now but we did it a little bit differently this year. Even so the results were just as impressive and everyone really liked the finished product, as did the rest of the parish when they joined us for the lighting of the tree. Well done every one. Only 4 days to go...
Saturday, December 20, 2014
Hartlepool Youth Ministry joined up today with the diocesan Christmas Flashmob to let everyone know what Christmas is all about. We visited Newcastle Central Station and Middleton Grange shopping centre right here in Hartlepool and brought the real joy of Christmas with us. Well done everyone!
Hartlepool Youth Ministry joined up today with the diocesan Christmas Flashmob to let everyone know what Christmas is all about. We visited Newcastle Central Station and Middleton Grange shopping centre right here in Hartlepool and brought the real joy of Christmas with us. Well done everyone!
Friday, December 19, 2014
It's goodbye Anne-Marie as she heads off to Stanbrook Abbey next month. Thank you, AM, for everything you've done for us- you will be greatly missed! But we're also looking forward to the arrival of our new chaplain, Naomi, in the new year. Watch this space!
It's goodbye Anne-Marie as she heads off to Stanbrook Abbey next month. Thank you, AM, for everything you've done for us- you will be greatly missed! But we're also looking forward to the arrival of our new chaplain, Naomi, in the new year. Watch this space!
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
By special request STA was back in St.Teresa's for a one of Advent special. We used a parachute to retell the Christmas story Ann's then opened up our Christmas presents from Jesus- Good news for the poor, medicine for broken hearts and freedom. Forget X Boxes, these are real Christmas presents!
By special request STA was back in St.Teresa's for a one of Advent special. We used a parachute to retell the Christmas story Ann's then opened up our Christmas presents from Jesus- Good news for the poor, medicine for broken hearts and freedom. Forget X Boxes, these are real Christmas presents!
Sunday, December 14, 2014
Thursday, December 11, 2014
St. Cuthbert's Family Fun Club celebrated Christmas this year at a wreath making workshop being run by Stuart White at Stranton school. I think the pictures speak fro themselves!
St. Cuthbert's Family Fun Club celebrated Christmas this year at a wreath making workshop being run by Stuart White at Stranton school. I think the pictures speak fro themselves!
Sunday, December 07, 2014
Sunday, November 30, 2014
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
After a short break during the Mission, EMS were back at St. John Vianney lunch club with 4 new students. 'The best ever!' said Joan, the organiser after being very impressed with their washing up skills. We hope to be back again soon.
After a short break during the Mission, EMS were back at St. John Vianney lunch club with 4 new students. 'The best ever!' said Joan, the organiser after being very impressed with their washing up skills. We hope to be back again soon.
Monday, November 24, 2014
Whilst special events were happening at St. John Vianney and St. Cuthbert's too, I joined up with the good people of St. Mary's to celebrate Youth Sunday itself.
It was a really special celebration, not least because Bishop Seamus was with us on visitation. He spoke movingly about our loving God and how we should not be afraid to enter into God's presence, in spite of all our faults and failings.
The theme of 'Outrageous Hope' had caught the imaginations of the children at St. Bega's school who had each made a colourful dove on which they had written their hopes ('My hope is that all wars in the world will stop and Manchester United will win the Premier League'!). These had been strung across the church with those of the children preparing to make their 1st Holy Communion attached to helium balloons that, with Fr. Nick's blessing, were let off into the sky after Mass.
The music was also a highlight, with Kev Walsh excelling himself on both guitar and vocals. It's great that he, along with many others, are so willing to share their talents with us in the service of the Lord!
Whilst special events were happening at St. John Vianney and St. Cuthbert's too, I joined up with the good people of St. Mary's to celebrate Youth Sunday itself.
It was a really special celebration, not least because Bishop Seamus was with us on visitation. He spoke movingly about our loving God and how we should not be afraid to enter into God's presence, in spite of all our faults and failings.
The theme of 'Outrageous Hope' had caught the imaginations of the children at St. Bega's school who had each made a colourful dove on which they had written their hopes ('My hope is that all wars in the world will stop and Manchester United will win the Premier League'!). These had been strung across the church with those of the children preparing to make their 1st Holy Communion attached to helium balloons that, with Fr. Nick's blessing, were let off into the sky after Mass.
The music was also a highlight, with Kev Walsh excelling himself on both guitar and vocals. It's great that he, along with many others, are so willing to share their talents with us in the service of the Lord!
The Diocesan Youth Ministry Conference brought together over 200 people to share their experiences of youth ministry with each other. We were both entertained and inspired by David Wells, a man who knows how to communicate serious theology to normal people better than anyone I've ever heard! Our stall in the marketplace attracted some attention and we invited lots of people to have a look at our blog, so we may even have some new visitors this morning. If we do, you're very welcome!
The Diocesan Youth Ministry Conference brought together over 200 people to share their experiences of youth ministry with each other. We were both entertained and inspired by David Wells, a man who knows how to communicate serious theology to normal people better than anyone I've ever heard! Our stall in the marketplace attracted some attention and we invited lots of people to have a look at our blog, so we may even have some new visitors this morning. If we do, you're very welcome!
Our now traditional Friday night extravaganza brought Bruce
Forsyth out of retirement to host, once more, the greatest ever TV game show!
We had people making pots out of clay, decorating cakes and Irish dancing with
mostly impressive, and sometimes hilarious, results.
We finished off the evening with time of prayer,
listening to the inspiring story of Ida B. Wells and reflecting on how awesome
we are as God's children, made in his image and likeness. And if you feel in
need of a pep talk, check out Kid President at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-gQLqv9f4o
Many thanks to all who made it happen, especially Alistair for
being our host and our three expert demonstrators: Mr. Gribben, Linda and Mary.
(Photos to follow soon...)
Our now traditional Friday night extravaganza brought Bruce
Forsyth out of retirement to host, once more, the greatest ever TV game show!
We had people making pots out of clay, decorating cakes and Irish dancing with
mostly impressive, and sometimes hilarious, results.
We finished off the evening with time of prayer,
listening to the inspiring story of Ida B. Wells and reflecting on how awesome
we are as God's children, made in his image and likeness. And if you feel in
need of a pep talk, check out Kid President at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-gQLqv9f4o
Many thanks to all who made it happen, especially Alistair for
being our host and our three expert demonstrators: Mr. Gribben, Linda and Mary.
(Photos to follow soon...)
Sunday, November 09, 2014
An amazing weekend, planned and led by an amazing group of our young people. 74 people from 22 families, aged 2 to 94, enjoyed a fun and faith-filled weekend at the Youth Village. Our theme was communication and we spent our time creatively reflecting on four questions (see below for both questions and answers!).
We set out to offer people a relaxing and enjoyable
weekend, which gave them the time and space to reflect on their faith and enjoy
being with each other; we ended up discovering much more. As we prepared to
leave, many people commented on the amazing community spirit that we had
formed, how people had come together to share their faith as well as to care
for each other’s children. As one of the young leaders had observed, ‘It
doesn't get much better than this!’ It has left us, perhaps, with an insight into what the
church really is.
What do we
want to communicate to our friends and families?
·
Love, freedom, friendship, community.
·
We want to freely share our faith, to talk (and
sing) about God!
·
Honesty.
·
How precious faith is- a ‘friend’ for life.
·
The capacity for God to help us triumph over
every adversity.
·
God’s love.
What do we
want to communicate about God to other people?
·
Love and trust
·
‘Before you start preaching about God, you must
first start living your faith. Then you will lead by example, because actions
speak louder than words.
·
Why we believe in God. We should not be afraid
to talk about love and forgiveness and the need for self-sacrifice on a daily
basis.
·
God’s infinite capacity for unconditional love
and forgiveness.
·
We are here by God’s design and the divine plan
won’t work without all of us. Be who you are- the best version, now!
·
That he loves them!
What do we
want to communicate to God?
·
Thanks!
·
Our love and gratitude
·
Our willingness to listen and act.
·
Our trust.
·
We lift up to God those people who don’t feel
God’s love.
What does
God want to communicate to us?
·
Treasure the gifts you have been given.
·
I know you are trying- keep it up!
·
Be strong.
·
Unconditional love.
·
You will be alright because I am with you
always.
·
Peace, even in the midst of a storm.
·
This weekend has been a great opportunity-
continue to grow.
·
I love you!
An amazing weekend, planned and led by an amazing group of our young people. 74 people from 22 families, aged 2 to 94, enjoyed a fun and faith-filled weekend at the Youth Village. Our theme was communication and we spent our time creatively reflecting on four questions (see below for both questions and answers!).
We set out to offer people a relaxing and enjoyable
weekend, which gave them the time and space to reflect on their faith and enjoy
being with each other; we ended up discovering much more. As we prepared to
leave, many people commented on the amazing community spirit that we had
formed, how people had come together to share their faith as well as to care
for each other’s children. As one of the young leaders had observed, ‘It
doesn't get much better than this!’ It has left us, perhaps, with an insight into what the
church really is.
What do we
want to communicate to our friends and families?
·
Love, freedom, friendship, community.
·
We want to freely share our faith, to talk (and
sing) about God!
·
Honesty.
·
How precious faith is- a ‘friend’ for life.
·
The capacity for God to help us triumph over
every adversity.
·
God’s love.
What do we
want to communicate about God to other people?
·
Love and trust
·
‘Before you start preaching about God, you must
first start living your faith. Then you will lead by example, because actions
speak louder than words.
·
Why we believe in God. We should not be afraid
to talk about love and forgiveness and the need for self-sacrifice on a daily
basis.
·
God’s infinite capacity for unconditional love
and forgiveness.
·
We are here by God’s design and the divine plan
won’t work without all of us. Be who you are- the best version, now!
·
That he loves them!
What do we
want to communicate to God?
·
Thanks!
·
Our love and gratitude
·
Our willingness to listen and act.
·
Our trust.
·
We lift up to God those people who don’t feel
God’s love.
What does
God want to communicate to us?
·
Treasure the gifts you have been given.
·
I know you are trying- keep it up!
·
Be strong.
·
Unconditional love.
·
You will be alright because I am with you
always.
·
Peace, even in the midst of a storm.
·
This weekend has been a great opportunity-
continue to grow.
·
I love you!
Thursday, October 23, 2014
The children (and the staff) would never have dreamed that faith could be so much fun! This was the last day of More than Dance's Hartlepool tour, visiting each of our primary schools to work with their children as part of the Mission. They've loved it and, from the looks on their faces, it's a fair bet the children have too.
The children (and the staff) would never have dreamed that faith could be so much fun! This was the last day of More than Dance's Hartlepool tour, visiting each of our primary schools to work with their children as part of the Mission. They've loved it and, from the looks on their faces, it's a fair bet the children have too.
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