Feast of St Francis of Assisi

This Sunday, 4 October, is also the Feast of St Francis. It is a particularly special occasion this year as it is the 800^th anniversary of his death. Pope Leo, who declared a Jubilee Year, has said: “This Year of St Francis spurs all of us, each according to our possibilities, to imitate the poor man of Assisi, to form ourselves as far as possible on the model of Christ… may the hope that has seen us as pilgrims now be transformed into zeal and fervour of active charity.” St Francis’ Canticle of Creation was the inspiration for Pope Francis (who took his name) for his Encyclical, Laudato Si’, on the care of the environment, our common home. To commemorate his legacy and to renew our commitment to the care of God’s creation, this weekend the Parish Laudato Si’ group will be giving out prayer cards of St Francis.

Plymouth CAST

Plymouth CAST is a Catholic multi-academy trust of 34 schools and 1 nursery, spanning the Diocese of Plymouth. Its mission is to be a community of outstanding schools in which the pupils flourish in safe, happy, and stimulating environments and leave with the knowledge and skills, personal qualities, and aspirations, to make the world a better place, inspired by the Gospel. Plymouth CAST is looking to expand its Board of Directors and is particularly interested in hearing from those who have skills and current or recent experience of education at primary or secondary level, particularly within a multi-academy trust. Please contact the Clerk to the Trust Board for further information, Mrs Leah Paiano lpaiano@plymouthcast.org.uk

Parish International Festival Weekend

Next Saturday, 10 October, 11.00am-2.00pm in the new parish hall, the first Parish International Food Festival will take place. This will be a voyage of discovery and an opportunity for us to get together to celebrate food and drink from the many different cultures that come together in both our churches each Sunday. The event will hopefully lead to an even better understanding and appreciation of each other, and to some new friendships across countries – and continents – being formed. All are welcome, not just those who have offered to contribute food to the day.  Additionally, there is no cost involved, we simply want everyone to come together and enjoy the food and company. There will also be some Indian dancing and some background music provided by parishioners, so it’s going be quite a lively and colourful affair! 

Centering Prayer Introductory Workshop

A Centering Prayer Introductory Workshop will take place at the Quaker Meeting House, Wynards Lane, Magdalen Street, Exeter EX2 4HU on Saturday 17 October, 10.00am-4.00pm. The workshop will be led by Nicky Temple, who has been following a contemplative path for over 20 years. Centering Prayer is a practice of silent prayer and interior stillness, offering a way of consenting to the presence and action of God and deepening our relationship with the Divine. The workshop is suitable for anyone interested in contemplative spirituality.

Day of Reflection

‘Is God calling me to Priesthood or to the Religious life?’. This Day of Reflection for men will be held on Saturday 17 October from 10.00am-3.00pm at St Mary’s Parish Centre, St Mary’s Road, Bodmin PL31 1HF. It will include Mass, a time of Adoration, a short conference, an opportunity for Confession and ‘One to One’ talks with serving priests from our Diocese and sharing food together.  Under 18s are welcome to attend with parental permission. Pickups from Bodmin station can be arranged if required. For more information and to register your interest, please make contact with Fr Jacek Kostuch on jacek.kostuch@prcdtr.org.uk or Fr Ralph Candy on vocation@prcdtr.org.uk.

SVP Skittles Evening

The SVP Skittles Evening will be held at 7.00pm on Friday 23 October at the Racehorse Pub, Wellbrook Street, Tiverton. The cost is £10 per person, which will include a buffet supper. Please let Simon Coombs (07761 420703) know by 17 October if you are attending.

Young Adult Event

On Friday 30 October, there will be a Worship Night at the Convent of the Sisters of Mary, Morning Star, in Lynton for young adults (18-35), starting at 6.00pm with a Social, followed by a time of worship and prayer from 745pm-8.30pm. For more information, contact David Kemp (07580 142808).

Trauma-Informed Practice in Faith Settings – Free Training Day

The Diocesan Safeguarding Team is hosting a new second training event on Saturday 31 October. This training day focuses on Trauma-Informed Practice within Faith Settings and is particularly aimed at anybody involved in working within ministry roles, but all are welcome if you have an interest in developing knowledge and understanding around this topic. The training is being held at St Boniface House on Saturday 31 October, 10.00am-4.30pm. Lunch is provided, and it is hoped to see as many of you there as possible! Click here to book a place.

PACT Sunday

Next Sunday is the annual Day of Prayer for Prisoners and their Families. There will be a retiring collection to support the work of the Prison Advice and Care Trust (PACT), which is the main Catholic charity that works to provide pastoral care to prisoners and their families.

World Day of the Poor Event – The Lord is the Refuge of the Poor

Join Caritas Diocese of Plymouth to celebrate the 10^th World Day of the Poor on Saturday 14 November, 11.00am-4.30pm, at our newly dedicated St John and St James Catholic Church. Bishop Nicholas will open the day and close it with the celebration of Mass. The keynote speaker, David Wells, will reflect on Pope Leo’s Message and Canon Kristian will give a brief introduction to the new church. A simple lunch will be provided. Registration is essential for this free event and early booking is advised. To register, click 10th World Day of the Poor Event: Tiverton – Fill in form, email caritas@prcdtr.org.uk or tel: 01364 645440.