ST DUNSTAN'S PARISH MAGAZINE VOLUME29 ISSUE4 SUMMER2019 - St Dunstan's Catholic Church
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1 ST DUNSTAN’S PARISH MAGAZINE VOLUME 29 ISSUE 4 SUMMER 2019
2
Front Cover by Hannah Cabural 1 Notes from the Parish Meeting 17
Contents Page 2 Notes from the Parish Meeting 18
Editorial 3 Notes from the Parish Meeting 19
Fr Simon writes 4 Connect Groups 20
Karin Harvey writes 5 Minutes from Communications Team Meeting 21
Beauty of Dark Hours. Walk of Silence 6 Minutes from Communications Team Meeting 22
News from St Dunstan’s School 7 CAFOD 23
A Sacristan’s Saturday morning 8 SJB School Art Exhibition Poster 24
Q & A with Ena Penny 9 The Original Parish Recipe Book 25
Reading at Mass 10 Media and Communication update 26
Safeguarding 11 A Catholic and a Jew in Conversation 27
Woking’s Easter Story 12 A Catholic and a Jew in Conversation 28
Giving back to the community 13 A Catholic and a Jew in Conversation 29
Woking Hospice. 14 Please Pray for 30
Confirmations 15 Who’s Who in the Parish 31
A Canonisation in Sight 16 Back Cover by Phoebe Hooker 32
The front and back covers
The covers of this edition are designed by two pupils from St John the Baptist School and were featured in a magnificent
exhibition put on by the school in June (see page 24 which shows the advertising poster—at the time of going to print we do
not have details of the artist but hope to be able to include this in the next edition) The standard of artwork shown at the
exhibition was extremely high.
The front cover was produced by Hannah Cabural for her GCSE coursework project. The starting point for her artwork was
Natural forms. This progressed to looking at natural forms from different seasons. She studied the work of other artists,
including Noel Badges Pugh and Tomasz Mro, to inspire and develop her own artwork. Hannah will be returning to SJB in
September to study A Level Art.
The back cover was produced by Phoebe Hooker for her GCSE externally set assignment. The starting point for her artwork
was Birds. She visited BirdWorld and worked from her own photographs taken on her visit. Phoebe looked at the work of
other artists, including Abby Diamond and Derek Myers to inspire and develop her own artwork. Phoebe will be returning to
SJB in September to study A Level Photography.
We sincerely thank both young ladies for sharing their artwork with us and we wish them all the very best in their studies.
SENIOR LUNCH CLUB DATES
September 10th
(school starts 5th September),
October 1st,
www.actionforcarers.org.uk November 5th
info@wokingmind.org.uk.
3
EDITORIAL by Zoe Lightfoot
The Catholic Church recently celebrated World Communications Day on the 2 nd June,
supporting and promoting the work of spreading the Gospel across all media platforms;
print, broadcast, social and digital. Pope Francis invites us to reflect on “being in relation”
and ask ourselves what it means to connect, in the context of modern communication; to
identify with the very human emotions of loneliness and isolation.
My take away line from Pope Francis’ message is this:
“God is not solitude, but Communion: He is Love, and therefore communication”*
I believe our parish reflects the true meaning of Communion, in the congregation and
within the community. As we discuss, plan and implement more effective ways of
communication across our available mediums, departments and groups across the parish
are learning from each other in an exchange of ideas on how to spread the word of our
Lord and offer support to those in need.
In May, the Mental Health Foundation hosted the Mental Health Awareness week, promoting good mental health for all.
Communication and mental health are predictably interconnected in the modern world. The Church recognises the distressing
statistics which show that one in four young people are involved in episodes of cyberbullying. In an attempt to reduce these
numbers and support the younger members of the church, an International Observatory for Cyberbullying Prevention is to be
established, within the headquarters of the Vatican.
In league with these events, this summer edition includes a safeguarding message by Adrian Sharman, minutes from the
communication group, a parish committee update as well as more reflective pieces such as Ciaran Osgerby’s Giving Back to the
Community and Mark Potter’s Readers at Mass: How best to Act? We also extend a warm welcome to Karin Harvey, who has
taken over from John Sexton as Parish Coordinator and wish her all the best in her new post.
On behalf of the editorial team we hope you enjoy this edition as much as we have enjoyed producing it.
God Bless,
Zoe Lightfoot
Editorial Team *For the full message on His Holiness Pope Francis for the 53rd World
Communications Day visit:
Editor: Zoe Lightfoot
http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/messages/
Layout Designer: Breda Dallimore communications/documents/papa-francesco_20190124_messaggio-
comunicazioni-sociali.htmlng
Consulting Layout Designer: Shannon Vas
Italian Translator: Concetta Velardo
Mental Health Support
French Translator: Gaelle Walton
If you feel you need spiritual and pastoral support care for
Printers: Knaphill Print Co Ltd.
mental health please visit http://
Contact Us www.catholicmentalhealthproject.org.uk/helplines
Email: zjlightfoot@gmail.com Alternatively contact the Samaritans at
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-
Or via the Parish Office marked “for the
samaritan/
attention of the parish magazine”.
4
No Ordinary Time: by Fr Simon
During these summer months the Church enters a season called
‘Ordinary Time’ – the weeks of green liturgical colour and Sunday Gospel
passages that recall Christ in His ministry, teaching, healing, shared
preaching journeys and meals at table. Not for now the high drama of
Holy Week or the anticipation of Advent – truly ordinary time. In truth
there is no ordinary time as Christ has sanctified all time and all seasons –
each moment is a window of grace and opportunity even or especially
amidst the most mundane, and prosaic. St Theresa of Avila, one of the
greatest mystics and contemplatives daringly spoke of discovering God
amongst the pots and pans. Here in the everyday and ordinary God
awaits (and even the most unlikely and unpromising of places, people
and situations). Time is no more on endless repeat, a futile cycle from
which we have to escape. Time now is the place of encounter. Out of
the prosaic is made the beautiful poetry of our lives. The weeks of
summer are a time, if we are fortunate, to change tempo, to take a
break, have a holiday and rest. To extend our vision and horizons
through travel or simply the opportunity at home to do something different and pick up a book, go for a walk. These things
aren’t a form of escapism rather they bring us back to the poetry yet to be discovered in the most ordinary. A Spanish priest,
now a saint, spoke of this same reality:
‘Wherever your yearnings, your work, your affections are, that is the place for your daily encounter with Christ. It is in the
midst of the most material things on the earth that we must sanctify ourselves, serving God and all people. Heaven and earth
seem to merge, my sons and daughters, on the horizon. But where they really meet is in your hearts, when you sanctify your
everyday lives.’
Whatever we are doing or not doing over the summer may it be a time more restful and reflective, allowing us to catch our
breath and discover what is already before us.
With every blessing,
Fr Simon
Basilica of Our Lady of Walsingham, Houghton St Giles, Little Walsingham, Norfolk NR22 6AL
2pm August 22nd to 2pm August 26th
See St Dunstan’s Parish facebook page for photographs from last year’s festival.
5
Meet your new Parish Team Co-ordinator
Someone said to me thankful to my wonderful parents for teaching and sharing
recently, "you have an with me our Faith, especially my Mum who had a great love
amazing wonderful Church for Our Lady. In 1980 I trained to be a nurse at The London
and community at St Hospital, Whitechapel and for the next ten years I lived and
Dunstan’s” worked in the East End of London, a very special period of my
life.
…”Indeed we do" I said,
with a huge smile and I then came back to Woking, where I met and married my
great pride. wonderful husband Nick. We met indirectly through the
Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes, which became a huge part of
So when Fr. Peter asked
our lives, and we have been going to Lourdes together for the
me to be the next Chair of
last thirty years.
the Parish Team I felt very
excited, greatly humbled For the last ten years I have been part of the Parish Team and
and honoured to take on the role. it is a great Team. I know that together we will continue to
serve the Parish and I would like to thank them for their
It is very special to follow John Sexton (big shoes to fill ! ) as
encouragement and support.
he was one of my teachers at SJB School and a great friend
from Lourdes. I hope I do you proud Mr. Sexton! I am really looking forward to my new role.
Zoe asked me to do a little piece about myself so…... Saint Dunstan pray for us…..
I have been part of St Dunstan’s Church since 1967. There,
that gives you a rough idea of my age! My school days were
Karin Harvey
spent at St. Dunstan’s and St. John the Baptist. I am so
ICON DROP IN WORKSHOPS
Icons have a long tradition in the Church, both as art and as a form of prayer. We run a drop-in workshop every
Wednesday from 10:30 to 13:00 in the Liturgy Rooms. There is no need to make a commitment to come every week.
All materials are provided, although we ask for a small contribution to cover the cost of these. We use traditional materials,
including gold leaf and egg tempera paint (which we make ourselves from egg, pigments and a splash of white wine) on gesso
boards.
Everyone is welcome to join. No painting experience is needed and plenty of help and advice is available. However, because
of the techniques involved some patience is useful; an icon typically takes about 6 sessions. If you can bear to part with the
finished product they make wonderful presents. If you’d like to find out more, just drop by on a Wednesday morning, contact
Dorota Cranmer on 07505 255863 or dsokicon@gmail.com or I’m generally at the 9:00 Mass.
“COULD YOU NOT WATCH ONE HOUR WITH ME? “
Adoration of The Blessed Sacrament now takes place between 8am and 5pm every
Monday.
This is in addition to the existing Adoration after mass on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
A rota for Monday Adoration is now in place and we are delighted to report that over 70
parishioners have already signed up to attend for a specific hour during the day.
If you would like to commit to spending an hour in Adoration on Mondays, or be put on the
reserve list, please contact Amanda Vassell on 07557411545 who will be pleased to give
you more details and answer any questions you may have.
All are welcome to pop into the church at any time between 8am and 5pm on a Monday
and we hope that parents will take the opportunity to spend a little time before the Blessed
Sacrament after dropping off their children at school.
6
The Beauty of Dark Hours By Remy Thomas
Can you recall the times in your life when you were in your Those hours of darkness, became hours of intimacy to God;
dark hours? It seemed to be infinite darkness, and the and eventually of course, the morning came for her.
feelings you had were sadness or even overwhelming
I think there is an unimaginable beauty and mystery of being
abandonment.
in the dark hours. When you feel like your sufferings seem
When Hannah was insulted and humiliated by the mistress of endless, that all the grace is denied, and that all doors are
her husband for being barren she felt meaningless. However, closed; it is then that you know the only act left for you to do
in those years of darkness she sought confidence in the Lord. is to surrender. Meaning you realise that you can’t do
She went to God’s house everyday and pray sincerely to Him anything but to have faith and to trust Him. Meaning you
for hours and hours that He will grant her children. There have to embrace the dark hours as the opportunity to enjoy
was no doubt in her whole being that God will grant her Him. To talk to Him, to be with Him and enjoy His company:
request. She took advantage of those moments to pray to to be in His court.
Him, to be near to Him and to trust in Him completely.
The Walk Of Silence by Danny Thomas
Through the woods along ancient paths I would ramble,
On either side a throng of bluebells and bramble.
Chinks of sunlight peek through the firs and the beech.
On to God’s wildlife, His special stamp on each.
I come to a crossroads; the crossroads of life?
Looking back on this vale of tears, of problems and strife.
With me all the way is the shadow of God’s hand,
Taking me with Him to the Promised Land.
ST DUNSTAN’S PARISH, WOKING (01483) 760652
Parish Priest: Fr Peter Andrews Assistant Priest: Fr Simon Hall Permanent Deacon: Rev Russell Young
Italian Chaplains: Fr Elio Alberti and Fr Giandomenico Ziliotto. 01483 714440
MASS TIMES
St Dunstan’s, Shaftesbury Road, Woking, Surrey GU22 7DT
Saturday: 6.00pm
Sunday: 9.00am, 10.30am, 5.30pm Italian: 12 Noon
Weekdays: 10.00am (unless otherwise stated in the Parish Newsletter)
Sacrament of the Sick and Sacrament of the Eucharist
Please notify the Parish Office if you know of someone who should receive the Sacrament of the Sick, or anyone
who is unable to get to Church and would like to receive the Sacrament of the Eucharist. Please also let us know
about any parishioner entering hospital or a nursing home.
SCHOOLS
St Dunstan’s Primary (4-11) St John the Baptist (11-18)
Head: Mrs Julianne Birch Head: James Granville Hamshar
(01483) 715190 (01483) 729343
7
News from St Dunstan’s Primary School
St Dunstan’s Day - Mrs S Turner
Children and staff alike enjoyed our special St Dunstan’s feast day in May. There was a real sense of unity and
happiness throughout the day as we reflected on the life of St Dunstan, the saints and how we learn from their
examples of faith, dedication, worship and love. The day began with a liturgy at the Church where representa-
tives from every class contributed to a spiritual and thoughtful service. Through dance, prayer, poems, art and
song we came together to give thanks. Back at school, the children were busy in their classrooms, amongst
other things, painting, creating school adverts and considering how we bring our school mission statement to
life in all that we do. The sun shone and the children gathered on the fields with their teachers and enjoyed a delicious lunch
prepared for us by Mr Hodges and our wonderful kitchen staff. It was a truly meaningful and memorable day for us all.
Multi- Faith Week: Islam – Mrs S Turner
During the week beginning the 3rd of June, Years 2 to 6 focused on deepening their under-
standing of a different faith, Islam. They learn about the belief and customs of Islam and
examined cultural aspects the faith through art, music, videos and artefacts. Year 3 were very
lucky to have a visit to the Shah Jahan Mosque in Woking. Whilst they were there, they learnt
all about the Mosque and in particular the features of the building. They learnt about who
built the Mosque, how many prayer halls they have and the many uses of the Mosque.
Liturgy and Worship—Mrs S Turner
Going Forth Mass for our First Communion children
Our school chaplain and members of the teaching team at St
Dunstan’s joined the children and families who received their First
Holy Communion this year at their Going Forth Mass on Saturday
22nd June. We were very proud of the children and joined them
as they received the Blessed Sacrament at this special mass.
Sourced from the School Newsletter
NEEDLES AND CRAFTS GROUP
Meets every 4th Thursday of the month
14.00—16.00 to do some crocheting,
Family chiropody and podiatry service knitting and basic sewing. We enjoy the
for Woking socialising, tea and cakes so do come and
join us: Future dates are 26th
Professional treatment of a wide range September, 24th October and 28th
of foot conditions November. No meeting in December.
1 Westfield Road, Woking, GU22 9LZ
01483 725600 / 07411135848
wilsonpodiatry.co.uk
8
A typical Saturday morning in the life of a Sacristan by Ena Penny
At the back of the Church I place a basket with Communion
hosts and a Ciborium for the priest’s host along with a small
jug of wine. All is now prepared for Mass.
I return to the Baptismal font which has been soaking. With
plenty of elbow grease I give it a good polish and it becomes
clean and shining again. I switch the fountain on for the
arriving parishioners.
I then clean the acolyte candle holders ready for the Vigil
Mass in the evening.
I go into the priests’ sacristy and leave out a flat basket to
hold any pyxes that will be taken out to the sick and house-
bound with Holy Communion. I also leave out a copy of the
Ena Penny has been Sacristan at St Dunstan’s for 53 years. current newsletter for the priest to refer to especially with
Throughout those years she has assisted countless parish regard to the Mass Intention. I lay out the Vestments for
priests, curates and Deacons. She and her husband, Geoff, Mass along with the pocket microphone. I mark out the
live in Old Woking. They have a daughter, Becky, two grand- Mass in the small Missal from which the priest will read the
sons, Luke and Joshua, and a son, John. She has shared with Entrance Antiphon as he, the altar servers and the reader
us her typical Saturday morning…. She does the same on a process up the aisle to begin the celebration of Mass.
Sunday evening, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday Before Mass I ask two people to carry up the bread and wine
morning—thank you Ena. for the offertory. Even after all the years I still check to
make sure I haven’t forgotten anything!!
“I begin by opening the church doors at 7.30am. First off I
light up the Crucifix, Our Lady and the Tabernacle. I then After Mass I wash the Chalices and make sure everything is
light the Altar candles which will be used for Mass. I clean for the next Mass. I turn off all lights and switch off the
extinguish them once the wax is soft enough to allow me to Baptismal Font pump.
clean and trim each candle. This course of action prevents the Before Morning prayer I light the candles and switch on the
candles from cracking. lights.”
I then empty the Baptismal font—the Holy Water from the As if she does not have enough to do—she also hand washes
font is usually thrown out into the flower beds in the Church the priests’ vestments!!
Grounds but if it is disposed of down the sink it is diluted
In our Easter 2020 edition we hope to feature a sequence of
before doing so. I leave the Baptismal font soaking in Viakal
photos showing how Ena decorates the Paschal Candle ready
while I attend to other things.
for the Easter Vigil.
I wash the Chalices and place them on the credence table
Thankyou Ena for sharing your day with us and for all your
(this is situated in the recess in the left hand corner of the
hard work.
Sanctuary) along with two purifiers , one lavabo - a bowl of
water for the priest’s fingers. (The name lavabo "I shall
wash" in Latin) is derived from the words of Psalm 26:6-12,
which the celebrant traditionally recites while he washes his
hands: "I will wash my hands in innocence, so will I compass
thine altar, O Lord") a small glass jug containing water that
the priest uses to put a drop of water into the Chalices with
the wine before the Consecration which represents the
people, also a jug of water to purify the Chalices after
Communion.
I mark out the Mass in the Altar Missal and the readings in Need volunteers: see their website for details or email on:
the Lectionary. On the Altar I place a Corporal (small white
wokingstreetangels@gmail.com
cloth), the key to the tabernacle and the candles.
9
Question time with Ena Penny
When is your favourite time of the year in the church calendar?
My favourite time is Easter. As Sacristan I get involved in all the preparations, starting with Chrism Mass and
Blessing of the Holy Oils at the Cathedral, watching till midnight on Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy
Saturday. I also have the privilege of decorating the Paschal Candle.
Which hymn or psalm do you love to sing?
Make Me Channel of Your Peace has to be the hymn I like most as it reminds me I am a Secular Franciscan and
love St Francis of Assisi.
Which part of the gospel speaks to you the most?
The Sermon on the Mount. You don’t need anything else, if you live your life according to Christ’s sermon.
Do you have a favourite religious building or place of pilgrimage?
Not really, I like a lot of different Churches and places but no special place, or Church I want to keep returning to.
Which is your favourite piece of art or design in St. Dunstan’s church?
Has to be the Stations of the Cross. They are absolutely beautiful. I will always remember the morning I walked
into the Church and they were hanging on the walls, and Fr Frank standing in the doorway waiting for the
reactions. I said to him “at last it’s a Catholic Church”, and him laughing. He was quite proud of the Stations.
What do you think makes the parish of St. Dunstan’s unique?
It has to be our two lovely priests, Frs Peter and Simon who are always there for us no matter how busy they are.
Our Deacon Russell who is very spiritual and helpful. We have a good friendly community. We have lots going
on to help us grow spiritually. I am quite proud of my parish. It would be very hard to find another like it.
Would you like to advertise your
business in this magazine?
Florists, formal/bridal wear
children’s entertainers, caterers,
photographers, dress-makers –
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Contact the editor on
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01483 773415
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Caterers also supplied. Free delivery service. Contact Tony: 07710556336
10
Reading at Mass: how best to act? By Mark Potter
Those involved in the When he was just starting up as a professional actor he
ministry of reading at Mass sought guidance on how to speak his parts and was advised
had the opportunity to to seek the help of an experienced actress of the time called
attend training sessions last Martita Hunt. Sir Alec Guinness recalls in his book:
year covering how to
“…when it came to dealing with the text of the plays….she put
prepare readings and
a swift stop to…my frequent false emphasis and helped me to
reading techniques. It
think, as an actor, what I was speaking. Very rarely do I rely
brought to mind a book of
on any rule of thumb but Martita gave me one at that time,
memoirs by Sir Alec
which has stood me in good stead. Unless there is a reason to
Guinness I read some years
the contrary, she taught me that, in speaking, the verb, which
ago, entitled “Blessings in
is the driving force of a sentence, should have first
Disguise”. Sir Alec Guinness,
importance, then the noun, and that the adjectives and
- those of a certain age and
adverbs would take care of themselves and that personal
others will recall, - was a
pronouns should never be emphasised except in special
highly acclaimed actor and a
circumstances.”
genius in character portrayal. He performed sketches of his
contemporaries including of Sir John Gielgud, Ralph I wonder what you think, who are readers at Mass? Though
Richardson, Noel Coward and even Grace Kelly. In the not strictly acting there is, no doubt, the element of
autumn last year, the parish’s Tuesday afternoon film club performance in reading. Perhaps you feel the noun, being
showed “Kind Hearts and Coronets” where Sir Alec played all the subject of a sentence, should deserve the greater
nine leading parts, male and female. emphasis rather than the verb or maybe you have your own
theory? It’s at least worthy of consideration, I feel, as Sir
In his later career, Sir Alec took on the role of Obi-Wan
Alec was regarded as a great Bible orator as well as being a
Kenobi in the original Star Wars film and, - what is perhaps
great actor.
most relevant to this magazine article, - also recorded
readings from the Bible which sold many copies.
NAN’S CAKERY
ST DUNSTAN’S AFTERNOON CLUB THURSDAYS
5/9/19 MARTINE YOUNG
Call 07454977307
3/10/19
UNDERSTANDING CHEESES.
ELENA MATAS
For tasty cupcakes,
LOST IN MADRID.
7/11/19 MARTINE YOUNG
beautiful celebration cakes
STAINED GLASS.
NO CLUB MEETING IN AUGUST OR DECEMBER or delicious desserts,
THERE IS NO NEED TO BOOK – JUST TURN UP WITH
FRIENDS AND FAMILY THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO we can meet all your
BRING ALONG. 2.00PM TO 4.00PM. ALL FOLLOWED
BY TEA AND CAKES! requirements.
DONATIONS TOWARDS THE RUNNING OF THE CLUB AND
CAFOD APPRECIATED. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION,
PLEASE CONTACT THEREZA MACNAMARA, MARIA ELENA
MATAS OR MARTINE YOUNG.11
Safeguarding Message by Adrian Sharman
Some of you may be aware that May (8th-14th) marked UK mental health week where specific focus was made to raise aware-
ness of Mental Health with the theme of how we think and feel about our bodies. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/
campaigns/mental-health-awareness-week. It seems now more than ever people feel under so much pressure and often they
are looking for someone to reach out to and simply be with them. Someone to be present and listen. Maybe next time you
are in church look around and see if there is someone on their own and just simply say hello and ask how they are doing. The
World Health Organisation predicts that by 2030 more people will be affected by depression than any other health problem so
it seems only right that as a caring community we look out for one another. Would
you know what the signs and symptoms of poor mental health are? If you become Do the small things—they can be really
aware or have concerns would you know who to contact? valuable.
There are many signs and symptoms to Listen: Simply giving someone space to
Know the signs and symptoms look out for that may indicate a child or talk, and listening to how they’re feeling,
Not taking care of their young person is struggling with their can be really helpful. If they are finding
appearance and/or hygiene. mental health. Any list often comes it difficult, let them know that you are
down to a change in behaviour from there when they are ready.
Absence from school/work (or
what is ‘normal’ for that particular Offer reassurance: Seeking help can
sickness often in adolescence.
person. For example, a child who is feel lonely and sometimes scary. You
Socially isolated and/or with- usually very well behaved and quiet then can reassure someone by letting them
drawing. becomes loud and aggressive, or an know that they are not along and that
adult who is usually very sociable and there is help available.
Erratic behaviour or mood swings.
contributes a lot, becomes withdrawn
Risk taking behaviour. and isolated. Stay calm: Even though it might be
upsetting to hear that someone you care
Anger and aggression. If someone let’s you know they are about is distressed, try to stay calm.
experiencing difficulties it’s okay. It’s
Not being able to concentrate and
also common not to know what to do or Be patient: You might want to know
seeming distracted.
say. You don’t need special training – more details about their thoughts and
Avoiding friends and avoiding simply be the good Samaritan and be feelings, or want them to get help
activities they used to find fun. caring. immediately, but it is important to let
them set the pace or seeking support
Missing regular appointments. There is support out there. For those themselves.
Seeming jumpy or nervous for no wanting direct help then children and
obvious reason. young people in the UK can contact Try not to make assumptions: Try not
Childline on 0800 1111. For adults The to assume that you already know what
Panic attacks. Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123 may have caused their feelings, or what
Change in appetite. or email jo@samaritans.org. For those will help.
with concerns then clearly in an Offer support: If it is a family member,
Lack of aspiration or not being able
emergency call 999 or if you just want or close friend, you could offer to involve
to predict positive things
some advice then NHS Direct 111 can them in a social event or just engage in
happening in the future.
help. If you need some local help or sign chat about life.
posting or just need someone to speak
If it is someone you know less well, keep
with then contact your Safeguarding Leader or one of the Priests. We can all do our
acquaintances and keep checking in with
bit to help and, if as a community, we take on board some of these points then
them.
these bits can add up to a big difference.
Safeguard Awareness Training
Did you know you can register for free online safeguarding training? This is available for all parish volunteers, especially those
working with children and/or adults. Through EduCare we are able to offer excellent set of bite sized modules which can be
completed in your own time and saved at any point. To register please email safeguarding@dabnet.org and
cc: adriansharman1@btinternet.com ensuring you include: St Dunstan’s parish, your name, contact number, email and role.
On receipt of your email the safeguarding team will register your email address with EduCare. You will receive a Welcome
Email from EduCare where you will set your password. You will then have access to the training programmes12
Woking’s Easter Story by John Sexton
Woking was one of many places across the country taking part in the annual celebration of Easter on Good Friday as the story
of Jesus was re-enacted in the town centre. The Act of Witness event, organised by Churches Together in Woking, marked the
arrival of the Easter weekend.
A brass band procession kick started the occasion and ended at the Christ Church in Jubilee Square, where a short service was
held. A good sized crowd gathered to witness the moving enactment of the Passion. Many from St Dunstan’s were present and
a good number active; either in the actual “performance” or as stewards or with the prayer team. Onlookers enjoyed music
from a live band, and watched as an actor was strapped to a makeshift cross, while performers told the tale of Jesus' death.13
Giving Something Back to the Community by Ciaran Osgerby
Since our arrival in Woking in 2004 my wife Julia, my
daughter Alexandra and myself have been active members
of the church, Parish, St Dunstan’s RC Primary School and
our local community.
It may be through my duties as Eucharistic Minister, Julia’s
support of the children’s liturgy or simply the three of us
serving teas and coffees after the 9am mass, that make us
such familiar faces to many of you.
Recently I become more involved in supporting Parish Over a number of years we have built up a strong track
activities and the wider community through the Catenian record in charity fundraising for local, national and
Association, which I joined in 2014. You may not be too international causes. My own chosen charity for my year as
familiar with the name, but the Catenians are an president is the Catholic Children’s Society - one of the oldest
international association of Catholic laymen who are charities supporting disadvantaged children and families in
committed to their faith, their families, and the local the United Kingdom.
community. You could say we are the Catholic version of the
The association is an opportunity for Catholic men, regardless
Lions or Rotary Club.
of age, nationality or background from Woking and the
The association was established in 1908 when the world was surrounding area to meet, develop friendships and to take
a very different place for Catholics and the Woking branch part in social events for them and their families. If you would
has been running for 71 years; our longest serving member like to know more then please do get in touch with me or any
joined in 1957! Although I only recently became President of other member of the association and come along to one of
the association I am very keen to help raise its profile, our meetings (the second Thursday of the month) to find out
make it more visible in the community and to make it fun for more.
everyone involved.
Thank you and God bless cgosgerby@hotmail.com
We meet on the second Thursday of the month to enjoy a
varied programme of social events together with our families
and the widows of members. We also support those who
have a vocation to the priesthood, and we have been
successful in establishing close ties with the other clergy and
faith leaders of other denominations in the Woking area such
as the Shah Jahan Mosque.
The association promotes integration and provision with a
wide range of activities to support members and their RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
families; whether it is visiting those who are sick or If you are interested in volunteering
supporting those caring for others. We also help younger or finding out more about the work
family members to build their confidence and skills through at Quest RDA please visit their
our annual young people’s public speaking competition and website; www.questrda.org.
work alongside the staff at St John the Baptist school to help
or contact them on
students develop and practice interview techniques. We
offer support for young people to enable them to participate 07922 536157
in the Lourdes pilgrimage, the Flame 2019 event and to also or
participate in voluntary work overseas through the Catenian
Bursary fund. committee@questrda.org14
Looking after the whole family by Daniel Betson
Regine was only 47 years old when she died from cancer leaving behind her husband Daniel and their two children, Emily aged
19 and Sam 15. Daniel shares the families experience in the following extract, explaining how the hospice not only delivered
vital care during Regine’s illness, but also crucially after her passing.
“To lose the love of your life after 25 years together is the most life-changing experience and there are not the right
words to express how essential it is to have the right level of help and support.
Our first contact with the hospice was with Amanda, one of the Clinical Nurse Specialists [CNS] from the Community
Team, who we met at the hospice initially. We didn’t realise before this meeting that the hospice cares for the
majority of its patients in their own home. Amanda became our main point of contact, visiting us as regularly as we
needed and wanted, and honestly even the little things made such a huge difference.
As February 2018 approached Regine’s condition deteriorated quite rapidly. Amanda helped and supported us
through making the decision for Regine to be transferred to Woking Hospice. I know now that this was absolutely the
right decision for us as a family, because we can live on in our family home with the memories of Regine as who she
was in life and not that of her death.
The sense of community the hospice provides has made everything that bit easier for us. Not only did they provide
counselling for my wife but also for the children and I, which we know we can access for as long as we need and that
the door of the hospice is always open to us.
It is because of the hugely positive experience that we as a family have had that I feel so passionate about sharing my
story in order to help raise awareness about what the hospice can and does do for families like mine. Emily has also
been inspired trekked to Machu Picchu earlier this year to help fundraise for the hospice.
I would say to anyone to be open minded about the
hospice. They are there to help and they will go above
and beyond to ensure the whole family is cared for.”
For more information about how the hospice supports
the whole family, as well as loved ones, visit
www.wsbhospices.co.uk/daniels-story
Woking & Sam Beare Hospices is a local charity which
delivers specialist care free of charge throughout North
West Surrey.
Each year they have to raise funds to help support their
annual running costs of over £8 million.15
CELEBRATING CONFIRMATION
On Saturday, 1st of June, fifty four of our young parishioners received the sacrament of Confirmation from Bishop Richard. We
were blessed with glorious sunshine and our church was full to capacity. The words of the Gospel reminded us of our call to
be ‘salt of the earth and light of the world’ and Bishop Richard spoke about our call to holiness.
St Catherine of Siena, one of the greatest women in Christianity and Doctor of the Church once said: “Be who God meant you
to be and you will set the world on fire.”
May our young people continue to bless our parish!
© Fernanda Mee16
A Canonisation in Sight: John Henry Newman
On Wednesday 13 February Pope Francis Christ. He brings together so many of the
authorised the Congregation for the best of Catholic traditions shared well
Causes of Saints to issue a decree beyond the Catholic Church. His canonisation
attributing a miracle to the intercession of will be welcomed especially in the Church of
the Blessed Cardinal John Henry Newman. England and the wider Anglican Communion.
The move clears the final hurdle in the For me the truly remarkable nature of this
cause for his canonisation. Following the moment is that this is an English parish
announcement, Cardinal Vincent said, priest being declared a saint. During his life
“This is wonderful news which will be the people of Birmingham recognised his
greeted with thanks to God by people all holiness and lined the streets at the time of
across the world. Newman’s exploration his burial. . I hope every parish priest in
of faith, depth of personal courage, England will hold his head high today
intellectual clarity and cultural sensitivity knowing the Cardinal Newman is declared a
make him a deeply admired follower of saint”.
Blessed John Henry Newman was a priest, a theologian, writer both its limits and its strengths. When Newman was named a
and preacher. His life spanned most of the 19th century. He cardinal in 1879, he took as his motto Cor ad cor loquitur
was an Anglican for the first half of his life, and became a (Heart speaks to heart). Newman died in 1890 at the age of 89
Catholic in the second half. Born in London in 1801, Newman and more than 15000 people lined the streets for his funeral.
studied at Trinity College, Oxford, was a tutor at Oriel College He was buried in Rednal (near Birmingham) 11 years later.
and for 17 years vicar of the university church of St Mary the After his grave was exhumed in 2008, a new tomb was
Virgin. He published eight volumes of Parochial and Plain prepared at the Oratory church in Birmingham.
Sermons as well as two novels. His poem, the Dream of
The cause for his sainthood was opened in 1958 and declared
Gerontius, was set to music by Sir Edgar Elgar.
Venerable by Pope John Paul II in 1991 after his life of “heroic
After 1833, Newman was a prominent member of the Oxford virtue” was recognised. Pope Benedict XVI beatified Newman
Movement, which emphasized the Church’s debt to the on 19 September 2010, at Crofton Park, near Birmingham.
Church Fathers and challenged any tendency to consider truth The Pope noted Newman’s emphasis on the vital place of
as completely subjective. Historical research made Newman revealed religion in civilised society, but also praised his
suspect that the Roman Catholic Church was in closest pastoral zeal for the sick, the poor, the bereaved and those in
continuity with the Church that Jesus established. In 1845, he prison.
was received into full communion as a Catholic. Two years
When elevated to the rank of cardinal, Newman made a
later he was ordained a Catholic priest in Rome and joined the
speech (the Biglietto), in which he said: “In a long course of
Congregation of the Oratory, founded three centuries earlier
years I have made many mistakes. I have nothing of that high
by St Philip Neri. Returning to England, Newman founded
perfection which belongs to the writing of the saints, viz., that
Oratory houses in Birmingham and London and for seven
error cannot be found in them; but what I trust that I may
years served as Rector of the Catholic University of Ireland.
claim all through I have written, is this,- an honest intention,
Before Neman, Catholic theology tended to ignore history, an absence of private ends, a temper of obedience, a
preferring instead to draw deductions from first principles. willingness to be corrected, a dread of error, a desire to serve
After Newman, the lived experience of believers was the Holy Church, and through divine mercy, a fair measure of
recognised as a key part of theological reflection. Newman success. And I rejoice to say, to one great mischief I have from
eventually wrote 40 books and 21000 letters that survive. the first opposed myself. For 30, 40, 50 years I have resisted to
Most famous are his book-length Essay on the Development the best of my powers the spirit of liberalism in religion…the
of Christian Doctrine, On Consulting the Faithful in Matters of doctrine that there is no positive truth in religion, but that one
Doctrine, Apologia Pro Vita Sua (his spiritual autobiography up creed is as good as another, and this is the teaching which is
to 1864) and Essay on the Grammar of Assent. His accepted gaining substance and force daily”.
Vatican I’s teaching on papal infallibility whilst carefully noting
Reproduced with kind permission from Oremus, the magazine of Westminster Cathedral’.17
Notes from Parish Open meeting: 9 June 2019
The budget forecasts an overspend for our parish of
John Sexton, Chair of the Parish Team, opened the meeting
£58K, assuming “ordinary” income does not increase.
with prayer, based on a new Mission statement for the
This compares with a deficit of c. £15K last year.
Parish – a quotation which is on one of the stained glass
windows in our church:
This substantial change is due in part to increased
“Go out to the whole world; proclaim the Good News to all
personnel costs, incl. more people in paid positions in
creation” (Mark 16:15).
the parish, but the major reason will be an increase in
The Parish Core Team had been discussing the way ahead for the diocesan levy to 35% (over £80K).
our parish, based on this Mission statement. The Parish
Meeting touched on this as well as covering:
The higher levy is due to contributions to the
i) the current financial position of our parish and the budget; maintenance fund for retired priests and the costs of
ii) the Diocesan Plan and its implications for our parish; clergy education being included.
iii) new initiatives and current programmes/activities in the
parish, both liturgical and pastoral; The parish will therefore soon run out of money if
expenditure continues to exceed income year-on-year.
iv) the new parish website and live streaming;
The first priority is to appeal for an overall increase in
v) Youth Ministry
offertory donations, not just an increase in Gift Aid. Fr Peter
mentioned that the Diocese is suggesting offertory donation
increases of £1 per person per week. It was proposed that
i) Finances
the parish look at the sum it needs to raise for the year and
John thanked all those involved in managing the finances of what level of increase in offertory giving therefore needs to
the parish for their dedication and hard work. be made, per person.
Joe Dunne, Chair of the Finance Committee, presented the
current Income & Expenditure Accounts, the Balance sheet,
and also the budget for the next year. The following key
points were noted:
Expenditure has exceeded ordinary income over the
past year; (“ordinary” meaning offertory collections and
donations etc.). Whilst not serious right now it needs
addressing and has been mitigated this past year by two
generous legacies totalling over £130K.
The parish has reserve funds over £500K. In response to
whether it is right to be holding such a high sum, Fr
Peter and others said such funds needed to be retained
to pay for:
Any substantial premises repairs that may arise;
New parish programmes, as we move to become a more
mission-focussed church;
Unknown costs associated with the Diocesan plan, including
St Dunstan’s closer union with other local parishes and
paying for chaplains in each Catholic school.
The reserves are held centrally in a Diocesan account and so
help offset bank charges overall for the Diocese.18
Brian McKendry, the parish Gift Aid Coordinator said that: it clear that the details of what is proposed in the Plan can be
viewed on the Diocese’s website (www.dabnet.org).
58% of the offertory collections are through standing
orders The closer working and, in some cases, future mergers
between local parishes as part of the Plan were highlighted,
2/3rd of offertory donations are gift-aided
with the point being strongly made that these were not
Gift Aid in our parish and across the diocese is declining. certain to happen.
The decline in Gift Aid is due to various factors, including: iii) New Evangelisation and Parish Activities
some parishioners not paying tax or not enough to Mary Smith gave a presentation on current and evolving
support Gift Aid (e.g. as they retire); programmes as we move from “maintenance to mission” as a
some people’s concerns about making a commitment or parish, and provided some of the background to this.
about security (even though management of the Gift Aid
Some of the many references from the past four Popes to
scheme is highly confidential and secure);
“Evangelisation” and “New Evangelisation” were quoted.
Flexible/ variable work contracts and irregular levels of
pay. New Evangelisation is called for in situations where many are
baptised but few practise, and where people have no real
The parish will note these issues in planning appeals for personal relationship with Jesus. All of the baptised are
increased, regular giving and for Gift Aid. called to become Missionary Disciples.
While ‘Evangelisation’ was traditionally considered necessary
in many countries overseas, a ‘New Evangelisation’ is now
ii) Diocesan Plan needed in our own country, town, parish communities and
John Sexton ran through a brief summary of the Diocesan families. The current emphasis is more to invite people,
Plan (“The Word who is Life”). John and Fr Peter both made whatever their state of life and belief, to “come and see”,
and to be welcomed and hopefully to become engaged with
our parish community. Having enjoyed this contact, they may
then be open to hearing about Jesus and his Church. Beliefs
are changed by building trust through relationships, through
caring and through belonging.
Recent parish initiatives, focussing on the New
Evangelisation, include:
Alpha Courses,
Connect Groups (small groups of individuals coming
together)
Youth Ministry
Hospitality
More opportunities for formation, helping parishioners in
the lifelong process of learning about and learning from
Jesus, are also being planned.
Mention was made of the First Holy Communion Programme
now being used, where parents are assisted to be the
educators of their children and in so doing have an
opportunity to develop or re-engage with their own faith
and the Church.19
The Parish Core team have been reading “Divine Renovation vi) Sculpture in memory of Canon Frank
– bringing your parish from maintenance to mission”, a book
A design for a Holy Family sculpture (with Jesus portrayed as
by Fr James Mallon about making disciples of all the
an older child than the usual infant), is anticipated from
baptised and developing parishes to be more focussed on
newly selected sculptor, Marcus Cornish. The sculpture is
evangelisation and less on ‘maintaining’ the status quo.
likely to be in bronze and positioned in the front garden of
A summary was then given of the many parish and related the church.
activities going on in the areas of Liturgy and Prayer,
Sacramental Preparation, Adult Formation, Outreach and
Social Activities. vii) Change of Parish Team Leader
John Sexton was thanked by Fr Peter for the last four and
half years he had given to the role of Parish Team Leader. A
iv) Parish Website and Live Streaming
presentation was made to John and his wife, Libby, who was
Kevin Wallace presented the new St Dunstan’s parish also thanked for her support for John in the role.
website and its main features. Website address:
Karin Harvey was introduced and welcomed as the new
www.st-dunstans.org
coordinator of the Parish Core Team.
Statistics from the time that Live Streaming of Masses and
The meeting closed with prayer.
other celebrations and events in the church had started was
also presented. There are an average of about 50 unique
viewings per day out of over 200 in total (i.e. someone Notes taken and summarised by Karin Harvey and Mark
looking in more than once). Over Christmas and Easter there Potter
were over 200 unique viewings for each day.
Kevin was thanked for his extensive work on the website and
the streaming facility.
v) Youth Ministry
Fernanda (Nanda) Mee described the activities that had
been established to engage young people in our parish since
she started as Youth Ministry Coordinator in the parish in
September 2018.
Nanda disagrees with those who say the youth are the future
of the church. They are the present.
The objective of our parish Youth Ministry is to give young
people the opportunity to meet the person of Jesus. The
initiatives that have been set up include:
Youth Alive Jr - school years 4, 5 and 6
Youth Alive Nights - school years 7 to 13
A new young adults event called "Encounter", aimed
at 15+ to 35 (post Confirmation)
The Confirmation programme was also mentioned.
Preparation for this was Alpha-based, each session being
followed by a time of Adoration; - a new experience for
some young people. 54 were confirmed by Bishop Richard at
St Dunstan’s the previous Saturday.
Nanda was thanked for her hard work since taking office.20
Connect Groups – Connect to The Word
Dear Parishioner,
Following the recent series of ‘Alpha’ courses we have established groups for those members of the
parish who expressed an interest in meeting to share and discuss aspects of our Catholic faith.
Would YOU like to be part of a group that would meet to encounter and discuss the Gospel
message?
Small groups of us (8-10 people) meet for no more than 60-90 minutes on a Monday or Friday
evening, once every fortnight, to discuss the Sunday Readings. Meetings are based in a parishioner’s
home; follow an agreed format and we all disappear on time so that the host may have their home
back! New groups will start after the Summer and it would be really helpful if you could let us know
now if you are interested.
Each meeting includes:
Social time (to say hello and proper goodbyes),
Praying time (to ask the assistance of the Holy Spirit and pray for our parish),
Group time (to hear and discuss the Gospel),
Individual silent time (to reflect on what we have heard).
We hope these groups help us both deepen our prayer practice and our enquiry into our Christian
faith. It is an opportunity to listen again to His Word and reflect on how that impacts on our lives.
It is proposed that a new group meet for the first time on the evening of Monday 2nd.September. If
this could be of interest to You please do reply by email and I will send you more details of where
we shall convene. This group has been set up at the express wish of Father Peter and forms a Parish
group that is available to all.
Sincerely Yours,
Miles & Alex Harvey
E: Miles1uk@aol.com
M: 0787-246-914321
Communications Team Meeting 29th April 2019
Present: Fr Simon Hall, Claire Dane, Alix Le Marchant Dane, Fernanda Mee, Adrian Sharman.
Apologies: Zoe Lightfoot, Mark Potter, Kevin Wallace, Lara Pereira, Shannon Vas.
There was a general reminder of the Communications Folder, located in the Parish Office, kindly initiated and maintained by
Claire. This contains details of all the platforms we communicate across within the parish and the contact details of the
allocated person responsible.
Press A&B News - The group identified a vacancy for a parish contact for A&B News and concluded that rather than one
person being solely responsible for such a heavy workload the responsibilities should be shared between 2 or 3 volunteers.
Sacramental Programmes
Alix spoke on the issue of communicating with young people about the sacramental programmes (First Holy Communion/
Confirmation) and raising awareness about the various ways in which they can be involved in the life of the parish on a deeper
level. We discussed composing information about different ministries/activities, specifically aimed at the younger members of
the Parish, with the intention to invite representatives from these groups to make themselves available for questions at the
celebration following the Going Forth Mass.
Safeguarding
Adrian updated us about the Parish drive to highlight the safeguarding work that we do, so that we can help people to feel
more confident and reassured. There are many areas in which safeguarding is important including protecting the vulnerable
and being aware of their needs, not only in cases of child abuse but also protection of the elderly, abused or those with mental
health issues. An another important aspect of safeguarding policy is to ensure that those representing the Parish, from priests
and Minsters of Communion to members of the SVP, are not placed in positions where they could be open to accusation.
We also discussed the importance of addressing specific cases
in which people are aware of either a person in a position of
responsibility in the parish/diocese being found guilty of abuse,
or a high-profile case (or cases) within the Universal Church.
There are legal restrictions on what can and cannot be
reported, and the need to protect those who may be falsely
accused is important, however we can be proactive in
expressing our shock, dismay, sympathy for the victims and
reiterating our conviction that these abuses are reprehensible
and should not be covered up.
The Parish would like to drive awareness of our safeguarding
work and make the presence of the safeguarding team more
visible.
Initial actions are:
To include a slide on the Narthex screen (as of Divine
Mercy Sunday)
To include a feature in Summer Edition of the magazine
and going forward, as required.
To highlight safeguarding issues in Mental Health
Awareness Month (May).
Adrian to present on safeguarding at the next Open Parish
Meeting on the work of the safeguarding team and the
different areas of concern that they might deal with (to
include different scenarios).22
For the safeguarding team and the
communications group to liaise on a
regular basis on safeguarding
matters and discuss how to better
promote awareness.
As a parish, our outreach could be
improved if we were keep up to date
with other Awareness days/months.
We should reflect them from a
Catholic Perspective, where relevant,
on existing traditional and online
platforms
https://www.awarenessdays.com/
Culture and Language Adrian raised the subject of language as an extension of the group’s ongoing discussion on
reflecting the international nature of our community more consistently. Although there are four or five trained safeguarding
representatives in the parish who are present at the main Masses, there is currently no one trained for the Portuguese/
Brazilian Masses. Adrian has contacted the Italian and Brazilian communities via Fr Elio and Fr Giandomenico as well as
reaching out to the communities as a whole on this matter and is awaiting feedback. He acknowledges that there may be
translation requirements to help them to train adequately.
Adrian expressed a desire to connect with other faith communities in Woking, both Christian and non-Christian, with the
objective to establish a network of safeguarding leads to enable us to work more closely and effectively. Furthermore it will
provide a supportive environment in which we can stand together during incidents of religious intolerance or periods of
religious tension to distribute joint-statements to show our solidarity and respect for one another.
Counsellors
We discussed the possibility of creating a parish team of counsellors who would be trained by the Diocese (Marriage and
Family Life – under Katherine Bergin). In such a sizeable Parish it would be beneficial to have trained volunteers who could step
forward when the priests encounter individuals in difficulties, such as the following:
Parish grief counsellor to assist those wishing to arrange a funeral.
Emotional support counsellors for those experiencing a marriage breakdown, abandonment or abuse.
Support for carers and guardians.
Support for those in the LGBTQ+ community who are struggling to reconcile their sexuality and their faith.
Youth Counsellors for individuals who find it easier to talk to someone in the Catholic context.
Mentoring by people who have gone through similar difficulties
Parish Database
We briefly mentioned the Parish Database and the question of how to keep this
manageable and up-to-date within current GDPR restrictions. This is for further discussion
at the next scheduled meeting.
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