The Presentation of the Lord takes place approximately forty days after Jesus' birth, in accordance with the prescriptions of Levitical law. This event illustrates the convergence of Jewish purification laws and prophetic fulfilment during the Second Temple period. The narrative provides intimate details about the Holy Family, including their socioeconomic status, revealed through their offering of birds - the sacrifice permitted for those who could not afford a lamb, thus reflecting Mary and Joseph's humble economic circumstances. This historical context demonstrates both the family's faithful adherence to Mosaic Law and their modest means, which would later characterise Jesus' own ministry among the poor and marginalised.
The Presentation narrative reveals God's faithfulness in fulfilling promises and the transformative power of holy encounters. It demonstrates how patient waiting and spiritual alertness lead to profound recognition of God's presence. This passage challenges us to maintain hope and spiritual vigilance while embracing both the joys and sorrows of discipleship.
Family Connections:
Consider exploring how your family practices waiting with hope in both daily life and significant moments. Reflect together on the family traditions that help you recognise God's presence, whether through prayer, shared meals, or special celebrations. It's also valuable to discuss ways family members can support one another through both joys and sorrows, creating a stronger bond of faith and mutual understanding. These conversations can strengthen family unity while deepening each member's spiritual journey and awareness of God's presence in your shared life.
Let us pray: Lord, open our eyes to recognise You in daily encounters.
Source: Fr. Viktor, Daily Gospel Digest, Viktorious Living
Please bring your candles for blessing.
The blessing of candles during the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
The blessing of candles, which gives this feast the popular name "Candlemas," is a centuries-old tradition that symbolises Christ as the Light of the World. During this ceremony on February 2nd, the priest blesses the candles with holy water and prayer, asking God to sanctify them so that those who carry these blessed lights may walk the path of virtue toward eternal light. The blessed candles are then carried in procession, representing how Simeon recognised the infant Jesus as the "light for revelation to the Gentiles" when Mary and Joseph presented Him in the Temple.
The Presentation of the Lord - Year C (1)
First Reading Malachi 3:1-4 Responsorial Psalm Psalm 24(23) : 7,8, 9,10, R. 10bc ‘The Lord of hosts, he is the king of glory’ Second Reading: Hebrews 2 14-18 Gospel: Luke 2: 22-40
Parish Mass Book Year C Part 1, pages 296-301
Parish Diary 2025
2 February – Sunday
09.30 am – Mass (with children’s Choir - No children’s liturgy) 11.30 am – Mass 06.00 pm -Mass
3 February – Monday
Building work in the Hall
4 February – Tuesday
Building work in the Hall 10.00 am – Mass
5 February – Wednesday
Building work in the Hall 10.00 am – Mass 06.45-8.00 pm – Confirmation session (Hall)
6 February – Thursday
10.00 am – Mass 10.30-11.30 am – Adoration for Vocations 10.30-11.20 am – Confession 07.00 pm – Legion of Mary Meeting (Sacristy) (For home visits, please get in touch with the parish) 07.00-8.30 pm- RCIA meeting (Hall)
7 February – Friday
10.00 am – Mass 03.00-04.00 pm – Divine Mercy Devotion (P.C.) 07.00 pm – Perpetual Novena to Snr Sto Niño (P.C.)
8 February – Saturday
10.00 am – Baptism 10.30 am-12.00 nn – Bereavement Group (Hall) 11.00-3.00 pm Celebration of Baptism (Hall) 11.00-11.50 am – Adoration organised by FIHM 11.05-11:50 am – Confession 12.00 nn – Mass 04.00-5.00 pm – Malayalam Mass (Cancelled)
Pro-Life Rosary
Daily rosary in the chapel after Mass with pro-life rosary Wednesday and Friday. Adoration & recitation of the rosary with exposition in the chapel 10.45-11.45 am. Fridays only.
Recitation of the Rosary (Tue-Wed and Fri) at Presbytery Chapel after the Mass or in the Church (if available).
*P.C. – Presbytery Chapel
MASS TIMES & INTENTIONS
2 February – The Presentation of the Lord, Feast (White)
09.30 am – For +John O'Brien; Luven Sanggalang and Vinia Sanggalang (Thanksgiving) 11.30 am – For +Sorin iulian Perca; +Robert McCloy; +Maria Perca; May Galvez 06.00 pm – For +Ines Fernandes Nobrega; Angela Dragovic
4 February – Tue. Feria (Green)
10.00 am – For the deceased members Burzotta-Helsby-Noor families; Hazel Family (FN)
5 February –Wed. St. Agatha Mm (Red)
10.00 am – For Jane Barton (FN)
6 February – Thur. Memorial (Red) SS. Miki and Comps
10.00 am – For the Holy Souls
7 February – Fri. Feria (Green)
10.00 am – For babies in danger of abortion
8 February – Sat. Feria (Green)
12.00 nn – For +Juan Pestana; +Joao Mata Teixiera (Birth Anniversary)
The Pope’s Monthly Intentions
February 2025 For vocations to the priesthood and religious life Let us pray that the ecclesial community might welcome the desires and doubts of those young people who feel a call to serve Christ's mission in the priesthood and religious life.
Coming up…
Building work in the Parish Hall
from Monday – Wednesday (provisionally Thursday) this week 3rd-6th February
Friendship Group
No meeting Tuesday 4th
First Holy Communion
No session on February 5th
Confirmation
Session will take place February 5th 6.45 pm – 8.00 pm Large Hall
RCIA
Meeting on February 6th 07.00-08.30 pm Small Hall
Important Notice:
Drivers, please do not block access to the Church.
Avoid parking in a way that obstructs the Parish Mini Bus or Ambulance. When parking, ensure your vehicle is facing the main road for easy exit.
St Helen’s Minibus: Help urgently needed
We are seeking a commitment of one Sunday a month, between 10:30 and 1300, to transport parishioners to the 11.30 Mass. No special driving licence is required, but you must feel comfortable driving the vehicle. Escorts only need to help passengers get on and off the minibus.
Please contact Ray Newman on 07775 769826.
Religious Store
For all your prayer aids, liturgical materials (hosts), religious statues, and images, please visit the religious store at Our Lady and Saint Helen, Westcliff.
Shop Opening Times: Sundays: after all Masses (10.30 AM, 12.30 PM, & 07.00 PM) Weekdays: Tuesdays to Fridays 10.30 AM Saturdays: 11.00 AM
SVP
Donation Options 📲 Text SVPSouthend to 70025 to donate £5. You will be charged £5 plus a standard rate msg. Text Giving T&C's | St Vincent de Paul Society https://svp.org.uk/text-giving-tcs 💻 Or make a single of your choice or set up a monthly gift: https://svp.org.uk/donate?project=St%20Vincent%27s%20Centre%20Southend
🔗 JustGiving Page https://www.justgiving.com/page/stvincents-1730217847673 If you’re a UK taxpayer, please remember to gift aid your donation!
Caritas Brentwood - Networking Day
You are warmly invited to the 2025 Caritas Brentwood Networking Day, taking place on Sunday, 9th February, from 2–6 pm at St. Edward the Confessor Church Hall, Romford. This event is an opportunity to explore the Catholic response to pressing issues such as homelessness, welcoming refugees and migrants, supporting those affected by the Cost of Living Crisis, and addressing climate change. Join us to find inspiration during this Jubilee year, exchange ideas and best practices with parishioners across Essex and East London, and learn about the charities and resources available to support your efforts. Registration is free - find more details at: www.caritasbrentwood.org/network.
The Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage,
led by Bp Alan, will be from Friday 18 July – Friday 25 July 2025. The flights will be Southend to Lourdes. Details, including how to book, will follow. We hope you will join us. Paul Keane Tel.: (01223)-742 192
Fire and Safety Project Fund (Target: £20,000.00)
£11,644.00 (as of 25 January 2025)
Regular Reminders
Masses at Saint Helen’s
Weekday Masses: 10:00AM Saturday Mass: 12:00NN Sunday Mass: 09:30AM / 11:30AM / 06:00PM 2nd Mass on Holy Days: 07:00PM No Mass on Mondays
Mass Intentions
For Any Mass Intentions, please see the priests or call them during office hours (Tuesdays to Fridays 9-1pm) Tel. No.: 01702 342324 Alternatively: Mass Intention Envelopes are available. Mass Intentions are published in the parish newsletter (available for collection) and posted on the Parish's Facebook page.
Sacramental Services
Please email our parish office or contact any priests for Baptisms, weddings, and Funerals.
Marriage Preparations: Couples planning to marry in or outside the parish should contact the parish office at least six (6) months in advance.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation: Thursdays 10:45-11:25 am; Saturdays 11:15-11:50 am or approach the priest to get an appointment.
The Sacrament of the Sick: Please contact the parish office for requests about visiting the housebound / Care Home residents.
St Helen’s Minibus Service
For parishioners of Saint Helen’s with mobility problems and want to attend the 11:30 am Sunday Mass - For those interested in joining the team of volunteers, please contact Ray Newman on Tel. No.: 07775 769826
Many thanks to all who support the maintenance of our Parish Minibus. If you know anyone who needs a lift to church for 11.30 Mass, please let the office know, and Ray Newman will be notified.
Friendship Club!
Join the Friendship Club of St. Helen's Parish in Westcliff! Discover meaningful connections and laughter every Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Parish Hall. All are welcome!
Craft Club!
Join us for our weekly Craft Club every Friday at 11:30 am. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a beginner, explore your artistic side, make new friends, and enjoy a break from daily life. Bring your projects or start something new with us. Let's create, inspire, and connect. All are welcome!
Troubled Marriages?
If your marriage needs support, please call us. Help is available for couples willing to work on their relationship. If you're considering separation or divorce but want to try again, Retrouvaille can help. Please share this with anyone who might need assistance. They may be searching for help but don't know where to turn. Retrouvaille is a program focused on healing and renewing marriages. Its name means "rediscovery," and it offers couples the opportunity to rediscover themselves, their partner, and a loving relationship.
Please call or email in confidence and without obligation. + 44 788 729 6983 / + 44 797 338 0443. E-mail to: retrouvailleukinfo@gmail.com
Westcliff-on-Sea Our Lady Help of Christians & Saint Helen
Official FB Page https://www.facebook.com/sainthelenswestcliff
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