Dear brothers and sisters,
We find ourselves in a quiet time between new calendar Christmas and the civil New year, when family obligations, limited public transport and various other factors inhibit parish-life.
Additionally, we have parishioners in Russia and Ukraine, and our students away for the university holiday.
This was reflected in Sunday’s Liturgy, with only twenty, or so, adults, but though simpler than it usually would be with a larger kliros, the Liturgy was prayerful and peaceful. We expect that next Sunday’s Liturgy will be much the same.
We will have confessions in Deacon Mark’s office this Thursday, though I may hear some confessions during home visits. May I ask that those requiring confessions email me promptly, so that I can organise confessions as soon as possible. Email otetzmark@hotmail.com by tomorrow evening, please. I know that this allows little time, but your swift attention will be very much appreciated.
Next Sunday will see the Hours and Liturgy at the usual time of 11:00, and I need to remind you that the covid-risk assessment of the diocese of Llandaff has escalated, so that the wearing of masks and two-metre distancing is mandatory.
Looking forward to the Nativity… Like last year, we will celebrate the feast during the night.
The vigil will start later than last year, as St John’s will be in use during the evening. We will celebrate the vigil at 21:30 (with confessions heard from 21:00, and during compline/ pavechernitsa and matins/utrenya) and the Liturgy will be celebrated at midnight.
We will be celebrating the Sunday of the Fathers this weekend, and will be only days away from the Nativity. Whilst some parishioners have health issues affecting fasting, as a general rule those who are to commune should be fasting NOW.
Those confessing will be asked whether they have been fasting, and the clergy remind you that receiving Holy Communion is subject to a blessing. Absolution at confession is NOT a blessing to receive the Holy Gifts.
The morning services of the Eve of the Nativity will be celebrated in Llanelli, and we will advertise these services separately. The diminutive size of the chapel will severely limit attendance.
Fr Luke and his parishioners will be with us for the Vigil and midnight Liturgy.
The Sunday of the Holy Fathers: 02/01/22
Confessions: 10:15
Hours and Liturgy: 11:00
The Eve of the Nativity: Wednesday 06/01/22
Confessions 21:00
Christmas Vigil 21:30 (Confessions during the service)
Christmas Liturgy: 00:00 Midnight
Sunday after the Nativity: 09/01/22
Confessions: 10:15
Hours and Liturgy: 11:00
May God bless you.
In Christ – Fr Mark