The Sick: The Diocese, on advice and under Data Protection Regulations (May 2018), asks us not to name individuals, but to pray for them as a group within the Parish Body as those in particular need.
Recently Dead: Peter Wallace, Philomena Binks, Jennifer Curran
Anniversaries: Fr Leo Chamberlain OSB, Bernadette Davie, Janet Williams
HOME COMMUNIONS If you require Holy Communion at home, please contact John Ridge: [email protected], Fr Kentigern or Fr Bernard either by e-mail or leave a telephone message by 8.00pm on Friday evening stating whether you require a weekly visit or a one-off call. Someone will then be in contact to arrange a suitable day and time to visit.
EASY FUNDRAISER Do you regularly shop online? Did you know you could support your church at the same time? For more information speak to Tracey in the Parish Office and see information leaflets in the Hall.
WORLD COMMUNITY OF CHRISTIAN MEDITATION Meets each week: Mondays at 2pm - 3pm in St Benedict’s Church Hall: contact Mary Sturges Thursdays at 8pm - 8 45pm on Zoom: contact David and Sue Walsh Should you wish to join either group contact Mary Sturges 01439788563.
CHRISTIAN MEN OF THE VALLEY Meet each Monday at 8.00pm to share faith, friendship and interests.
FABRIC PROJECTS Works have cost £35000. Thanks to some recent generous donations we have raised £3092.17. All donations gratefully received.
HOSPITAL CHAPLAINCY Mr Wilding has rejoined the team of lay chaplains at York Hospital. He has produced an information sheet about this ministry, including details of how to contact a chaplain and arrange a visit to a loved one in hospital. You will find these notes at the back of church.
Saturday 22 November: Refreshments after Saturday Vigil Mass in St Benedict’s Church Hall. Come and meet your fellow parishioners!
CAFOD Donate to CAFOD’s Israeli-Palestinian Crisis Appeal at cafod.org.uk/ipc or call 0303 303 3030. or to the Sudan Crisis Appeal: cafod.org.uk/SudanAppeal or call: 0808 58 588 85.
PARKING Could I encourage as many as possible on Saturday Evening or Sunday Morning to use the parking available off St Hilda’s Walk – below the allotments or in the Doctor’s Surgery. This will help to prevent the congestion building up on West End during the weekend.
Robert Toone completed a triathlon on Sat 13th September, swimming 1.9km, cycling 90km and running a half marathon (21km) to raise money for Youth 2000. Founded in 1990, Youth 2000 has helped tens of thousands of young people experience God’s love and many credit Youth 2000 as part of the reason they have met their spouse or decided to pursue a vocation to religious and consecrated life or priesthood. All one-off donations will be matched by a generous donor and if you decide to give monthly the first 12 monthly gifts will be doubled. Here is the fundraising page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/roberttoone70-3 Or search Robert Toone on www.justgiving.com Or see him in Church or donate via the Church Office.
CHILLI NIGHT NEWS A HUGE THANK YOU to everyone who came and celebrated at our All Saints Chilli night. It was a really enjoyable evening with good food, a chance to meet people from both St Hilda's and Our Lady and St Benedict's parishes, an interesting talk from Andrew and Sarah Laird and a raffle! Thanks also to anyone who helped in any way. What a great community we have. The total raised comes to £454.72 but the experience itself was even more valuable.
Our Lady & St Benedict’s St Vincent de Paul Conference.
Meets fortnightly on Mondays.
A lay catholic society which has been running for over 150 years in England and Wales, aims to meet the needs of the poor and vulnerable wherever and whoever they may be, by befriending or supporting either financially or emotionally.
The main aim of its members is to seek out people in need and to help them through person-to-person contact, at a local level. The need might be one of financial hardship, or sudden family crisis, of loneliness, of disability or of bereavement, or simply the need to see a friendly face for someone who is housebound. We, as Christians, are all called to have concern for the deprived and the poor and the SVP gives us the opportunity to turn that concern into action.
There are many aspects to the society both local, national and international, too many to detail here. More information can be found on www.svp.org.uk or from one of our conference members.
In being a member, not only are you part of an organisation that brings help and comfort to many, but by fulfilling your Christian calling to look after the poor and marginalised, many rewards are received in return.
We are very keen to meet anyone who is interested in becoming a member or who would like to find out more, or if anyone who feels that the SVP can help them. Please speak to Mary Borrett (07732786643) Mary Godwin, Patricia Leonard or Fr Bernard.
SAFEGUARDING SURVEY The Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA) has recently launched a survey aimed at victims and survivors, with a particular focus on how dioceses and Religious Life Groups (RLGs) respond to those who have suffered abuse. The primary focus is on those who have had contact with a RLG or Church since July 2024 in relation to this abuse. At Ampleforth Abbey, we are keen to encourage survivors and victims to contribute to this survey so that their experiences can help to make a meaningful and positive difference to the support that Churches and Religious Life Groups can offer. More information about this initiative and a link to the survey can be found on our website, where you can also read more about our commitment to safeguarding and supporting survivors of abuse: https://www.ampleforthabbey.org.uk/cssa-survey
A SECOND SURVEY You may already have seen the Public Call for Information – Survivor Engagement in the Catholic Church survey (ABOVE) which is currently being shared in churches and Religious Life Groups (RLGs) on behalf of the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA). The CSSA are now asking every diocese and RLG to help them share a new survey inviting everyone engaged with the Catholic Church, including Clergy, Religious (Consecrated Life), Parish Safeguarding Representatives, Employees, Volunteers and Parishioners to contribute their experiences. The aim of this survey is to better understand how the Catholic Church engages with Survivors. While it is unlikely that many of you will have had direct contact with survivors through your work for AAT, it remains a core part of our wider safeguarding work. Some key elements of this work are summarised here:
We ensure that all staff receive training on how to respond to disclosures or allegations.
We have a Survivor Working Group who meet through the year to review cases, levels of contact and support for survivors. This group includes a member of the monastic community, and external specialists with experience of working with survivors.
We have a contract with Survive York where we fund therapeutic support for survivors when we refer them to their organisation, or when they self-refer.
We work closely and openly with external agencies and the Non-Recent Abuse Investigations Team (NRAIT) to support victims and survivors.
We offer face to face meetings with the Abbot or other members of the monastic community.
We alert survivors to our Complaints Policy and to the fact that they are entitled to make a claim for compensation, we also signpost them to the Abbot's key messages and commitment to safeguarding on our website.
METHODIST ASYLUM PROJECT - MIDDLESBOUUGH MAP now have a new depot in the centre of Middlesbrough. Donations can be accepted from Nov 12th until Nov 25th. Leave in the Cottage of the Old Summer House. (Further information 01439788563) The door will be open. They will be delivered on Wed Nov 26th. This is the final delivery until next February. Last chance to offer gifts for Christmas and also garments which could offer protection.
The necessary move means their usual stocks are depleted… So, any donation will be welcome.
Duvets-and covers preferably single size. Sheets /Pillowcases. Towels (They have plenty of Blankets) Saucepans and Kitchen utensils. Frying pans, Cutlery, Tea towels.
Warm wear for Winter for all ages but especially for slim young men. Waterproof coats and jackets. Shoes/ boots trainers for children, men and women. Gloves and Mittens for toddlers and babies. Nappies. Soft toys. Toiletries: small sizes used for personal gifts and distributed at the Christmas Party in December. Items of perfume and costume jewellery which could be given as individual gifts.
As ever, Thank you for donating to Methodist Asylum Project in Middlesbrough. Mary Sturges, Paul George.
MIDDLESBROUGH FOODBANK AND NOW FOR THE CHRISTMAS APPEAL! We will again be uniting our efforts at the Ampleforth Hub and St John’s Easingwold with those of Sue Allen and Jonathan Pomroy of the Ampleforth Benefice, where special collections will be taken in Ampleforth and in the villages of Cawton, Stonegrave, Gilling and Oswaldkirk. We know you will want to give generously and to include Christmas food, goodies and toiletries along with the usual donations of essentials. Let’s do all we can to help bring warmth, kindness and hope to families in need.
NEXT DELIVERY: TUES. 9th DEC. DEADLINE for Ampleforth: 12 noon MON. 8th DEC.
Donations should be left at the back of Our Lady and St Benedict’s Church as always. THANK YOU ALL!
MFB GIFT AID forms are now available at the back of church for individual donations of cash and cheques. If you are able to, please could you hand them into the office along with your donation.
Please remember, every single donation counts and is gratefully received, ……so THANK YOU VERY MUCH and special thanks too to those who support the MFB with on-line donations.
THE CHURCH OF ST HILDA AND THE CHURCH OF OUR LADY AND ST BENEDICT
Rev James & Fr Kentigern invite you to join them for
COMMUNITY PRAYERS 10.00am
Monday 24 November – Our Lady & St Benedict Monday 8 December – St Hilda Monday 22 December – St Hilda
Followed by refreshments and fellowship
CAN YOU HELP? Rosie Hayman, in her work at Sacred Heart School, is looking for any unwanted, spare Christmas decorations and/or craft ideas to make decorations for the School Chapel. Please speak to her for more details.
FORTHCOMING EVENTS Thursday 27 November: Wreath Making Workshop from 7.00pm in St Benedict’s Church Hall. ALL WELCOME.
Saturday 29 November: Advent Church Cleaning Working Party 2.00pm. ALL WELCOME.
Thursday 4 December: Peter Wallace Funeral at 2.30pm. At the moment, due to Belinda’s condition, this will be a private family only occasion. There will be an opportunity for a Parish Memorial Mass at a later date.
Sunday 7 December: Primary School Children’s Sale of Christmas Crafts after Mass. Advent Carol Service at St Hilda’s at 4.00pm. ALL WELCOME. Friday 12 December: Ampleforth Abbey Trust Carol Service at the Abbey at 2.30pm. ALL WELCOME. The children of our Primary School will be taking an active part.
BLUE CHRISTMAS A SPECIAL SERVICE FOR THOSE WHO ARE ALONE OR WHO ARE GRIEVING AT CHRISTMAS TIME SUNDAY 21ST DECEMBER 3.00 P.M. HOLY CROSS GILLING
A ZOOM COURSE FOR ADVENT Spiritual Intelligence – wise living in an age of disconnection
What if wisdom went deeper than logic and emotion? What if the way we pray, notice beauty, and make meaning are all part of a deeper intelligence—spiritual intelligence? If you would like to join me exploring this course on zoom, please get in touch by email: [email protected] The course will run on Monday evenings at 7.00 p.m. from 1st December. Open to everyone
With the bad weather having prevented sharing this webinar live, watch out for a chance to share in watching a recording.
UPPER ROOM WITH MIDDLESBROUGH SVP Our children heard a presentation about this “drop-in” centre in Middlesbrough, open each Saturday morning for two hours, providing hot food and drink, care, advice and a friendly welcome to the homeless. They were invited to take up an ADVENT CARE BAG CHALLENGE. Provide simple toiletries, woolly hats, scarves, gloves etc to create gift bags to give a homeless person. ALL WELCOME TO PARTICIPATE. Send suitable items to School.
Carol Service in the Advent Season SUNDAY 7TH DECEMBER 7.00 P.M. ST HILDA’S CHURCH, AMPLEFORTH - ALL WELCOME
WARM WINTER SPACES Begins again in Ampleforth Village Hall Wednesdays 12.00 - 2.00pm November 5th & 19th December 3rd, 10th & 17th. An opportunity to meet old friends and to make new ones in a warm and welcoming environment. Enjoy a light lunch, tea and cake. Dietary requirements catered for.
Everyone welcome. No pre-booking required. No charge, a voluntary donation will be accepted.
Transport can be arranged - call Mary in advance on 07732 786643
COFFEE AND CRAFTING Continues each Thursday 10.15 - 12.30 in St Benedict's Church Hall Join us for creativity and community. We invite you to bring along any crafting or art projects and enjoy skill sharing with others during this social time., ALL AGES WELCOME. Children must be supervised at all times by parents or caregivers during the event.
YOUTH CHURCH @ AMPLEFORTH Restarts after the Half Term Break on November 9th & 23rd and December 7th. Ampleforth Village Hall 6.30 - 8.00pm For young people (Year six and above) in the Valley and beyond. Learning about God and faith through fun, friendship and food. For further information please contact Lucy Willshaw: lucy.willshaw@outlook,com
MUSIC AT AMPLEFORTH COLLEGE CHORAL MASS Fridays during term 7.00pm ALL WELCOME
THE ALPHA EXPERIENCE Continues each Wednesday evening till 3 December at Gilling Village Hall 7.00pm. Are you curious about faith? Join a series of group conversations that freely explore the basics of Christian faith in an open, friendly environment. Includes a complimentary meal. ALL WELCOME Register your interest at [email protected]
BEREAVEMENT CAFE A gentle supportive space to sit with others who understand. Whether your loss is recent or many years past, you are welcome to come for conversation, quiet and a cup of tea. Alternate Mondays 2.00 - 3.30pm Beadlam Grange Bistro Facilitated by Ryedale Churches Together. ALL WELCOME
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION Are you in Year Three or above and interested in making your First Holy Communion? Are you a teen interested in making Confirmation? Do you feel called to Initiation in the Catholic Church? Please contact Fr Kentigern for details
PILGRIMAGE The Mejugorje Irish Centre are advertising pilgrimages in 2026. See Parish Bulletin for details or contact: www.med-irishcentre.com [email protected] Whatsapp: 07860 465386 Mejugorje Office: 00387 36 651 515
CAN YOU HELP? Rosie Hayman, in her work at Sacred Heart School, is looking for any unused, unwanted spare Christmas Decorations or craft ideas to make decorations for the School Chapel. Please speak to her for more details.
THE WELL - A DAY OF REFLECTION FOR CATECHISTS Join us for a day of teaching, discussion, reflection and encouragement. Saturday 31 January 2026 10.30am - 3.00pm Parish Hall of Our Lady's Catholic Church, York YO24 3DX Bring your own lunch, refreshments provided.
CAFOD Thank you for supporting CAFOD’s Family Fast Day! Thank you so much for your generous contributions to CAFOD’s Family Fast Day Appeal. Your donations in our parish collection and online are helping families like Waré’s in Ethiopia. CAFOD’s local partners worked with Waré’s community to build an underground water tank that now provides safe water for 300 families. Your support this Harvest will help more communities have better access to safe water. You can read more about Ware’s story here: cafod.org.uk/harvest Our Community Fundraising team will be sending out thank you certificates when your collection is received that you can place on your parish noticeboard to acknowledge the generosity of your parishioners.
LAUDATO SII MOVEMENT As COP30 gets underway , we are encouraged to join in the following prayer:
Divine Creator, God, We thank You for the wonder of the universe and its eons of time and life that has sustained us. We thank You for our sister mother earth, her beauty and giftedness, the bounty of her days and her sacred ground. Sadly, we have abused earth’s sacred space and have misread its sacred story, claiming it as our own, opposing Your divine plan. Its gift of sustainability has been snatched away, diminishing its sustenance for the good of all. Yes, we can hear its anguished cries of pain and distress; its resources stripped bare, its climate distorted, its water and soil poisoned, its landscape unable to cope. Creator God, Help us to care for sister mother earth with loving attention to its sacred journey. As it gives of itself without measure. Inspire in us a spirit of awe for its beauty and many life forms. And may we be thankful knowing that it waits unceasingly to refurbish itself for our sake. Amen. ( Sr. Maura Fitzsimons, PBVM. Laudato Si’ Animator. Shaw, Mississippi, United States of America.)