Not even Hitler and his non-stop bombing of this tiny (17 miles long x 9 miles wide) historical island could stop the bells of 375 churches (yup, that’s one for every day of the year, plus some to spare!) from ringing, but… a virus did!
An Introduction to the Gospels of Mark and Matthew
Reflections on Fr Denis McBride’s talk given 7th March 2020
Almost exactly a year before (9th March 2019), St Stephen’s had a visit from acclaimed author and theologian Fr Denis McBride talking about the passion narratives in the four Gospels and how they agree and differ. This time, around 50 people gathered (not realising how such gatherings would very soon be no longer permitted for a while) in the parish hall for another inspiring talk.
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Bexley Winter Shelter 2020
This was the fourth winter shelter set up in Bexley and totally different from the previous 3 years.
It all started in September, with the team contacting the 200 odd volunteers from the 2019 Shelter; however we only received a positive response from 120 people. So in November we had a big push, which included me and Mark Cocklin speaking after each Mass one weekend at St Stephen’s.
Brownie News
The Brownies have been busy over the winter term. We kicked off the year with 28 Brownies. We finished last year with a fun drumming lesson and an Elf Party in honour of Buddy!
A Prayer for our Earth
All powerful God,
you are present in the universe
and in the smallest of your creatures.
You embrace with your tenderness all that exists.
Pour out upon us the power of your love,
that we may protect life and beauty.
Fill us with your peace, that we may live
as brothers and sisters, harming no one.
O God of the poor,
help us to rescue the abandoned
and forgotten of this earth,
so precious in your eyes.
Bring healing to our lives,
that we may protect the world and not prey on it,
that we may sow beauty,
not pollution and destruction.
Touch the hearts
of those who look only for gain
at the expense of the poor and the earth.
Teach us to discover the worth of each thing,
to be filled with awe and contemplation,
to recognize that we are profoundly united
with every creature
as we journey towards your infinite light.
We thank you for being with us each day.
Encourage us, we pray, in our struggle,
for justice, love and peace.
Amen
A prayer for our earth was published in Pope Francis’ encyclical, Laudato Si’. It is for all who believe in God who is the all-powerful Creator.