Civic Mass, remembrance service, Godly Play

Latest news of interest to the Catholic community across the Diocese of East Anglia includes a civic Mass, a remembrance display and a Godly Play.

A packed congregation included 12 civic representatives led by the Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk attended Mass to celebrate the feast of St Edmund King and Martyr at our Church in Bury St Edmunds on November 17, reports John Saunders. 

The celebrant was Fr Sean Connolly, with three local retired priests (Dick White, Brendan Moffatt, Terry Phipps) as concelebrants. 

The music for the Mass was provided by organist Dickon Fincham–Jacques, the Music Group led by Mick Truman and the choir led by Patricia Mason.  Choir members received acclaim for their beautiful singing, and the voices of those from the Filipino and Nigerian communities emphasised the diverse range of talented people within the parish.

In his homily, Fr Sean emphasised the importance of caring and supportive deeds which would ultimately be taken into account at our day of judgement, highlighting the good works of Edmund and the manner in which he cared for his people and his faith.

Following the service parishioners and guests gathered in the Crypt for a buffet lunch and an opportunity to view the relic of Edmund which had been gifted by a former parish priest, Fr Mark Hackeson. 

Many of the guests who were non-Catholic commented on how they had been impressed by the warmth of their welcome and the support they received from ‘buddies’ who sat with them in Church to provide support them and answer their questions.  Guests also referenced how diverse and inclusive the parishioners were, coming together in a spirit of unity. 

It proved a memorable and successful celebration of St Edmund’s feast, the actual day of which is November 20 and continues an annual tradition.

St Dominic’s parish, Downham Market has been busy for Remembrance Day. Last year parishioners (mostly ladies) knitted or crocheted over 2,000 poppies which were used to decorate the narthex and sold to raise funds.

This year the remaining poppies were added to and Jean Butler and helpers again decorated the church entrance. The poppies will be left up for November and prayers for peace will be said at all masses. “Lest we forget”.

The Anglican Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham is opening up a Godly Play hub at the Shrine which is open to all, not just Anglicans.

Shrine Education Officer, Jane Southward, said: “Godly Play is a way of teaching the Christian faith through storytelling using resources and response time. It’s suitable for all ages, although most frequently used with children. We aim to offer a lending library and use of the room for Godly Play sessions for visiting groups.

“We are having a launch day on February 1, 2025, and although we are based at the Anglican Shrine, we are keen to work ecumenically and to make the resource available for all.”

For more details contact: j.southward@olw-shrine.org.uk

https://www.walsinghamanglican.org.uk/event/godly-play-day/

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