Suspension of Public Worship

As you will be aware, the Government’s new lockdown legislation calls for the cessation of public worship. Please sign this petition and write to your local MP to challenge this blatant and unnecessary violation of liberty. You will be pleased to note that the Bishops Conference has challenged the Government on this point, as have several bishops including Bishop Egan. Please pray that these restrictions are lifted quickly.

During the lockdown, we will strive to keep the founts of sacramental grace flowing. Please note that, commencing Friday 6th November, St William of York Church will be open for private prayer at the following times, during which a priest will be available for Confession. Furthermore, 20 minutes before the end of each period of opening, Holy Communion will be distributed at the altar rails.

Sun: 9am to 10.30am (with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament)
Mon: 12pm to 1.30pm
Tue: 7am to 8.30am
Wed: 12pm to 1.30pm
Thu: 10am to 11.30am
Fri: 7.30pm to 9pm
Sat: 8am to 9.30am

The Mass intentions noted in the previous bulletin (planned before the lockdown was called) will still be fulfilled, at the priests’ private Masses on the given days.

At Christ the King Church, Bedford: Confessions will be available on Sat 7th November from 2.30pm to 5.30pm.

At Our Lady’s Church, Chesham Bois: We are planning to be available for confessions on a Saturday afternoon later in the month – to be announced on the next parish email on 13th November.

NB: The Mens Group is cancelled but the Ladies Group will go ahead as planned on Sat 7th. The Confirmations planned for 22 November are postponed again – they will be a priority once public worship resumes.

by Fr SP