Dear friends,
We have lots to look forward to over the next three months at St Alban’s: Harvest Thanksgiving, Black History Month, All Saints and All Souls, Advent and, dare I say it… Christmas!
I’m particularly looking forward to these next three months because last year I was away on sabbatical throughout October, November and December. It will be lovely to be back and share this season with you all.
I always feel I can properly start looking forward to Christmas and planning for it from 28 September, the Feast of St Wenceslaus. The familiar carol Good King Wenceslaus tells how the saint sees someone in need and goes out into the cold to help him. It is a lovely reminder that our faith is not just about what happens inside church, but about seeing the needs of others and putting our faith into action.
That seems particularly fitting as we celebrate Harvest Thanksgiving this Sunday. We give thanks for God’s gifts while remembering those who do not have enough. Please do bring non-perishable food to be blessed and given to our Foodbank.
As we look ahead, there will be many opportunities to worship, learn, serve, celebrate and welcome others. Why not invite someone new to join us? A friend, neighbour or family member might be looking for exactly the welcome that St Alban’s can offer.
I’m really looking forward to the next three months together!
With my prayers and every blessing,
Fr Sean
Notices
Samuel Ibiotye RIP – Sunday 4th October
During the Parish Mass we will be remembering our dearly departed Samuel as a memorial of his death. Members of his family will be present.
Black History Month Service – Sunday 11th October
Followed by Afro-Caribbean lunch party in the church hall. Tickets on sale soon.
Divinitus – Wednesday 14th October, 7pm
All young adults are welcome to join us for Mass (30 mins) followed by a social in the Prince George next door.
Divinitus Pilgrimage to St Alban’s Cathedral – Saturday 17th October
Join for a group visit to St Albans Cathedral, the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain and one of the country’s most remarkable historic and spiritual landmarks. More details on the poster below.
Mothers’ Union 15th Celebration – Saturday 17th October, 10.30am
The local MU chapters from various churches will be joining us in St Alban’s for a celebration Service of the 150th anniversary of the MU. Please join us to welcome and give thanks for this work and mission.
Electrical repair Party – Saturday 17th October, 2pm
Following the MU celebration, the electrical repair party will be in church to fix any electrical items you may have for FREE.
2027 Parish Pilgrimage to the Shrine in Walsingham 13th – 16th August
Booking forms available from 6th September. Completed forms plus £40 cash non-returnable and non-transferable deposit to be given to Jenny by 20th September.
To give regularly, please visit the Giving section of our website:
This Week at St Alban's
Contact
Vicar:
Fr Sean Gilbert SSC (020) 8653 6092
Churchwarden:
Jenny Sturtevant 07745 017607
Safeguarding Officers:
Shelley Leckey (020) 8240 9188
Margaret Earle 07972647007
Hall Hire:
Tammy Sprosen 07944435013
hmalbanse25@gmail.com
