This is the most holy time of the year recalling the passion and death of Our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ culminating in his glorious resurrection. Jesus truly died, as we all will, but he also truly rose again by which heaven is open to us if we chose to accept the invitation to eternal life. Please note the changes to Mass times this week. Palm Sunday Masses will be at our usual Sunday Mass times with the first Mass of Palm Sunday on Saturday evening at 6.00pm at St Urban’s. There is no Mass in the parish on Wednesday due to the celebration of the Chrism Mass in the Cathedral at 11.00am by Bishop Marcus when all priests will renew their promises and the Holy Oils for 2025 will be blessed. All are welcome to the Chrism Mass which is a beautiful occasion. On Holy Thursday the Mass of the Lord’s Passion will be celebrated at 8.00pm at St Urban’s followed by watching at the Altar of Repose until 10.00pm. On Good Friday the Celebration of the Lords Passion will be 3pm at Our Lady of Lourdes with Veneration of the Cross at 7.00pm at St Urban’s. On Holy Saturday the Vigil Mass will be at 8.00pm at St Urban’s when will we welcome seven wonderful people who have made a journey of faith into our parish community. Easter Sunday Masses will be at our normal times. For those unable to be in church the livestream at St Urban’s is available. From Thursday to Sunday we are invited to join the Lord Jesus as he gives us the Eucharist, and as he journeys from betrayal and suffering to resurrection and glory, a resurrection and glory offered to us; I look forward to walking this journey with you.

Father Chris