Dear Parishioners,
Occasionally we are given an insight into what it means to belong to a Universal Church, one such moment is offered this weekend, as across the world members of our global Faith-family are encouraged to pray for an increase in vocations, especially to the Priesthood and Religious Life. It is a rich opportunity to primarily reflect on our vocation as an individual member of the Church, hearing the words of St. Paul speak to ourselves: “As a prisoner of the Lord, I urge you to lead a life worthy of your vocation.” (Ephesians 4:1) Our primary vocation is given and accepted in Baptism, and is subsequently fed and served by others, parents, Godparents, Parish clergy, catechists and teachers etc.
This weekend I echo St. Paul’s encouragement for us all to pray for more men and women to hear and respond generously to God’s call on them to follow His Son in a life dedicated to providing the Church and beyond with the necessary food for the journey of life, not least that of the Eucharist. As a Diocesan family we lack the numbers of Priests and Religious that we once had, and this is a trend that we are both living with now, and will continue to do so – with even further reductions – for the foreseeable future. So, let us pray to the Lord of the Harvest to send labourers into His harvest !
As ever, the Newsletter and Readings for Holy Mass come with Kindest thought, a remembrance in prayer, and affection.
Fr. Nicholas
P.S. Having been approached by a member of the Spen Civic Society I wonder if any of our parishioners (particularly those with Heckmondwike roots / connections) could assist them in regard to a project undertaken with Historic England. A one-line comment / reflection / memory is being sought from anyone who (a) worked at Firth’s Carpets (b) worked at Cooke’s Carpets (c) worked at Harold Wood Transport in Wormald Street, Heckmondwike (d) used the Heckmondwike Baths for bathing (not swimming !) or (e) lived in one of the “80 Houses” of Francis Street and Powell Street, Heckmondwike.
All that is required is a single sentence containing a comment or memory, returned to myself, and these are required by 20th May, please. Thank you !