Jesus is very clear about the call to His disciples to bear fruit, something that is simply impossible unless we remain close to Him, part of the vine.
Bishop Richard has issued a new Pastoral Plan for the Diocese of Arundel & Brighton, marking an important new stage in the development of diocesan parish structures, creating new pathways for apostolic mission and meeting the challenges of an increasingly secular society with renewed confidence and openness to the Holy Spirit.
The Call to Mission focuses on the significant potential of diocesan parish communities to act as “beacons of light… not in an era of change, but in a change of era” consolidating the work already undertaken across the diocese to place prayer, formation, and mission at the heart of diocesan parish and school community life.
The plan reorders the diocese in a radical way: in the coming months, the present 11 deaneries will be re-configured as 11 parishes; priests & deacons will work together, with one of the priests appointed Moderator for each parish.
The new Pastoral Plan is available on the diocesan website: www.abdiocese.org.uk/diocese/pastoral-plan and hard copies are available at the back of the churches.
Bishop Richard will be hosting a Pastoral Plan Webinar with Q&A for our diocesan community on Wednesday 10 January at 7.30pm. There is no need to register for this event, please use the following the link to join the presentation: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86457734895.
(for links to each episode, see Live Stream on this website)
Our Invited Mission began last year, bringing people from across the Diocese, and far beyond, together in faith, online.
Season I allowed us to explore the basic message of the Gospel; that we are created by a God of love, for a perfect relationship of love with Him, but that sadly our brokenness, weakness, and wounded nature means that we often turn away from Him – struggling to find our own paths to the peace and joy that only He can bring.
Season II of Invited, ‘Growing in Faith’ was all about our day-to-day experiences, the good and the bad, the highs and the lows, exploring what it really means to be a follower, or disciple of Jesus.
Season III – there are four weeks of this Invited Season which coincide with the four weeks of Advent, and as you work through these resources, we hope and pray that you and the guests you are journeying with, will grow n faith as well as friendship.
Each Invited Season III film is accompanied by a range of downloadable resources on the theme of the Incarnation. The programme is designed to be accessed by individuals and groups – with everyone, regardless of age, depth of faith, or involvement in the parish very welcome.
Hot on the heels of our Advent season, we are delighted to bring you the fourth season of our Invited digital mission this Lent. Invited Season IV will offer an important opportunity to take a deeper dive into our faith, and is designed to help us grow as disciples of Jesus by offering a richer level of formation – with some practical challenges along the way.
Taking part is easy, you simply watch each week’s film – available on our Invited webpage, via email if you sign up, and on social media – and use the accompanying resources to help you watch, reflect, and pray. The Lent season is aimed at those who have already said ‘yes’ to Jesus and are looking for concrete ways to conform their lives more closely to Christ. It will help you understand who Jesus is, and just how much he loves you.
(see Diocesan Website for further information)
MENTAL HEALTH TRAINING COURSES Would you like to understand more about the challenges and reality of mental health on those around you? We continue to run courses focused on raising awareness of symptoms and the impact on people’s lives along with ways to signpost those who are struggling. For more details see the Diocesan website or email Simon South, Formation Advisor E: simon.south@abdiocese.org.uk
WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CATHOLIC FAITH? As part of the Catholic Certificate in Religious Studies, different subjects are taught in depth over Saturdays in Crawley. These include the Scriptures, the Person of Jesus Christ, the Church and its sacramental life and moral understanding. The modules can be attended separately or can build as part of the Certificate. Course runs October to April and suit anyone who is interested in developing knowledge of their faith, whether personally or to support a ministry. More info E: jon.harman@abdiocese.org.uk
Thinking of the Priesthood – In our Diocese we have a St John Vianney Group meeting 4/5 Sundays each year. It is a group for men aged 18-45 who wish to explore whether they have a calling to the priesthood. If you would like to find out more or just chat generally about vocations contact our diocesan vocations director, Fr Tristan Cranfield: tristan.cranfield@abdiocese.org.uk
Have you ever thought about being a priest, or know someone who has? Our diocesan vocations director, Fr Tristan Cranfield, is planning several days of reflection for men to start discerning God’s call in earnest. It’s not always easy to know if God is calling you to priesthood; these days will aim to explore some simple tools for finding out, time for prayer and an opportunity to learn more about the diocesan priest, along with other men following the same path. Certainty is not required – the day may be just a chance for you to start your thinking, pray and ask questions. Please contact vocations@abdiocese.org.uk to find out more.
Ministry of Consolation and Commissioning Wednesday, 15 May, 10:00am – 3:00pm, St Bernadette’s Hall, Crawley, RH10 5BS
We come together to celebrate the Commissioning of our new members to the Ministry of Consolation team, to build friendships and networks and to engage with our on going formation and training.
There is plenty of parking available and teas and coffees will be available . A bring and share lunch will make the event a wonderful time of sharing and community, so do please bring along your signature dish or favourite snack.
Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Richard and certificates will be issued at the end of Mass.
If you have any questions please contact Deacon Simon South, Diocesan Advisor E: simon.south@abdiocese.org.uk
Grandparents Pilgrimage to West Grinstead – Wednesday 26 June A day of sharing and prayer with other Grandparents led by Bishop Richard to include Mass, Benediction, Rosary, tours of the secret chapel and lots of chat. Please bring a packed lunch and a travel mug if possible. Arrival from 10.30am for refreshments. As always please car share if possible as parking is limited. Places can be booked through this link Grandparents Pilgrimage to West Grinstead (26-Jun-2024) · ChurchSuite Events
To find out about and book events hosted by the Diocese please visit our website events calendar : https://www.abdiocese.org.uk/diocese/events
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122 Ladbroke Road
Redhill, Surrey, RH1 1LF
01737 761017
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Jesus is very clear about the call to His disciples to bear fruit, something that is simply impossible unless we remain close to Him, part of the vine.
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