SPIRITUALITY GROUP MINUTES FROM 10 MARCH 2004

Present: Ann Turton, Vicky Acklam (secretary), Jim Harrington (chair), Bernadette Turner, Peter Molloy, Fr Matthew

Apologies: Cathy Clark, Maria Dabrowska

Calendar of Events: once the diary that the Mission group is currently organising is finalised, we will pick up on those events that need our help and support. Planning ahead should be easier once forthcoming dates are known and confirmed.

Shrove Tuesday: the Parish Party coordinated by Maria Dabrowska was much enjoyed. We aim to help out again at this event next year, perhaps focusing on the spirituality side in more detail.

Catechesis, Adult Education: we reiterated that we feel there is a need for adult formation within the parish, for everyone to participate in. We feel that there should be opportunities for all of us to be as well informed in our faith as in other areas of our lives. Matthew suggested a ‘Reading Group’ (religious books) – specific details e.g. times, places, to be decided later – to be set up. This would involve choosing a particular book, reading a certain amount each week, and meeting to discuss it. We felt that this would appeal to many people; perhaps those candidates who will have completed their RCIA course and become members of the church at Easter would particularly appreciate it. Matthew to research book (possibly ‘Catholicism’ by Timothy Radcliffe); starting date after Easter.

Parish Library: the open letter to all parish organisations asks for their views on this. Once some feedback has been received Vicky will begin work on the project.

Sacramental Preparation: Bernadette spoke to Mrs Longley about this year’s First Communion classes and offered our help as a group; Mrs Longley will let us know if we can help in any way. Bernadette has also ordered the children’s medals and certificates. Fr Matthew mentioned the parents’ course that the parish runs alongside the children’s course at school, and that this year’s reconciliation service has been coordinated from the parish.

Youth club: it was noted that youth club leaders would like to have a mass specifically for the young people, and we felt that Christ the King would be an ideal opportunity for this. An afternoon service might be appropriate. Fr Matthew to check with Fr Greg the possibility of saying another mass that day.

Other items:

This year’s ecumenical Stations of the Cross service (Tuesday of Holy Week): Peter to liaise with Veronica about a suitable service (three versions currently put forward).

Maundy Thursday all-night vigil: we should promote this as much as possible in the parish, encouraging people to take part.

Rosary: it was suggested that we ask the PPC and the parish as a whole – through the newsletter – to pray a decade of the rosary every day for a particular intention. Each month’s intention would be chosen by the PPC member responsible for that month’s meeting’s readings and prayers. Each month’s intention would also be included in the parish website.