NEW FOOD BANK INITIATIVE, together with school & pre-school, our ‘Community Kitchen Cupboard’ is now up & running! (The 'C.K.C.')
July 2024
This informal, free service is for anyone in our community who might be struggling or just needs a bit of extra help ~ please, just come & help yourselves from the shelves. As you can see from the video, come on into the entrance of the church which is open each day (even if the door is shut, please try it, as it is usually unlocked from approx. 8.45am-4pm, or later on days where there is evening Mass) including during the summer holidays. The Community Kitchen Cupboard is at the end of the entrance area - take a bag and take what you need for you / your family.
Also, if anyone is in a position to donate tinned & packet items for the CKC please leave items in the box at the bottom of the cupboard for our team to sort out and label.
We have loads of pasta and tins of beans, pulses & soups etc at the moments but would love some more toilet rolls, tea, coffee, lunchbox snacks such as individual biscuits or dried fruit boxes etc, jars of pasta sauce, tinned or packet desserts (rice pudding / custard etc) and sanitary items.
*Keep an eye out for updates on this in the weekly Newsletter*
We hope this will be a useful initiative for our community and we would welcome any helpful feedback and offers to join the team of people checking and re-stocking on a rota basis each day.
“And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
Congratulations to Milly from Willow class for designing the winning logo for The CKC - the new Community Kitchen Cupboard! ... I think it says everything about what the initiative stands for - to surround people with love ❤️ Well done Milly. Look out for the new sign at the back of church soon.
Here are the 3 runners up in the school's Logo/Poster Design competition for the new 'Community Kitchen Cupboard' initiative.
Congratulations to Bethany, Enzo and Jack who designed these amazing pictures. The school children brilliantly demonstrated the purpose of the C.K.C. - to offer love, support and practical help to those who might need it.
Don't forget - this Friday's Mass at an earlier time of 7pm is a special celebration at the end of the Season of Creation and the Feast of St Francis. Then we can join together for 'cider and cheese' nibbles and drinks in the hall. Everyone is invited.
This Sunday - Come and join together in prayer, at this Harvest time, for the issue of food poverty at Christ Churchm Downend at 6.30pm. All are very welcome.
Peace Walk
On Saturday 14th September many of us took part in an Ecumenical Creation prayer walk around the neighbouring churches in our area. The weather was kind and some people did the whole walk and some joined us to do half. We started at the United Reformed Church in Mangotsfield, walked to St James Church Mangotsfield, Resound Bristol, Badminton Road Methodist Church, then to St Augustine's, Downend Baptist Church, Christ Church Downend, Pendennis Good News Church, God's House International Centre - GHIC, Staple Hill Methodist Church and finishing at The Salvation Army Staple Hill. Staple Hill Methodist Church offered us lovely refreshments as they celebrated their Heritage Day. It was a really prayerful walk and a good opportunity to see inside our neighbouring churches that we might often walk by.
In this #BlackHistoryMonth we can find out more about the contributions of our Saints and Blessed or Venerable people in order to recognise and celebrate their work.
The Bishop's Conference of England and Wales have a section on their website which highlights some of our Saints in more detail.
Laudato Si Education Centre
Thank you to Bella who has shared these pictures of the recent day in the beautiful Laudato Si Education Centre in Salford and the meeting with Bishop John Arnold who sponsors it in his own Bishop's palace grounds.
We are delighted to launch this year's COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS EVENT!
On Saturday 16th November our annual community afternoon is back! Join us from 12noon-3pm in the school for festive fun ~ come & have lunch, enjoy mulled wine, Irish coffees & delicious cakes, ~ get some Christmas shopping done at our amazing stalls, (more info on who is joining us, very soon!) ~ play fun games & ‘try your luck’ on the bottle stall & tombola, ~ have your face painted, decorate biscuits or try some crafts, ~ listen to some talented musicians, ~ have something mended at Bella’s ‘stitch it’ stall ~ & more. There’ll even be an early visit from the big guy in red! (We've booked him before he gets too busy!) Invite your friends and family and come along for a lovely afternoon, celebrating our wonderful community together, all whilst raising money for our School/PTFA, our Pre-school, our Parish and the Guiding units and other charities ❤️
(If you would like to help with the event please contact the office. If you can donate a bottle or new gift for the tombola stalls please bring items to the presbytery. We’d also love donations of cakes on the day (please label ingredients))
CKC news: We are so pleased to have our Community Kitchen Cupboard up and running as it is clearly providing a need to those in the area. Many items have been taken over the past few weeks and we are glad to be able to help out. We are currently very low/out of toilet rolls, tinned fruit, tinned custard or rice pudding and tinned ham/meat so if you are in a position to be able to buy an item like this and pop it in the box at the base of the cupboard for us to sort out, we would be very grateful. Thank you to all who have donated so far.
We would like to publicly thank ALL the volunteers within our amazing congregation who help to make our Parish run smoothly, with such love, care and effort, all for the good of the wider community. ** Mass on Sunday 6th October is being offered for all our wonderful Parish Volunteers and we invite you into the hall after Mass for a cuppa and cake and a quick update, whatever role you take, however seemingly 'big' or 'small' (note: there are no 'small' roles, by the way!)
So, if you are in the Flower group, a Sacristan, a Welcomer, in one of our committees, a Minister of the Eucharist, a Prison Visitor, a Musician, part of the Soup Run Team, a Catechist, a Youth Team member, a Server, a 'Counter', a Reader, part of the Refreshments team, a helper at the Summer/Christmas events or an Emergency Steward, or more ~ you are all part of 'Team St Augustine's' and we thank you!
Gospel Generation Community Choir - Concert on Fri 18th October
We will have some beautifully tuneful visitors in a few weeks time, here at St Augustine's Church - keep the evening of Friday 18th October free for a charity concert, all in aid of our parish projects - Sneak peak below...
Join us for an amazing night of music in our church with the Gospel Generation Community Choir! Friday 18th October at 7.30pm with interval and refreshments during the evening. Tickets just £5pp, all in aid of our Parish Projects Little Sisters of the Poor St Joseph’s Care Home Bristol and Brandon Trust. See Sue Stricker for tickets, or on sale soon after Mass and from the office.
CAFOD
Some good news: please find below a link to a heartfelt Thank You video from Kayode Akintola and Monsignor Bernard Massey to all of us, the People of Hope of Clifton Diocese. Kayode oversees CAFOD work in Africa and visited St Bonaventure’s Church in Bristol during his holiday in UK.
CAFOD’s Family Fast Day is coming up on Friday 4 October and a special retiring collection will take place on that weekend (5/6th Oct). Daniel, a young man in Democratic Republic of the Congo, is carving a better future for his family with carpentry skills he learned in a CAFOD-funded training centre. Give to CAFOD today and you’ll fund training, tools, equipment and safe spaces so more people like Daniel can learn new skills and fulfil their God-given potential. Use the envelope in church or give online at https://cafod.org.uk/fundraise/parish-fundraising/virtual-envelope
Reflections for Twenty-Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B thanks to Deacon Vincent.
1st Reading is from the book of Numbers 11: 25-29. “Numbers” is the name given for this book in Greek, but in Hebrew it is called “In the Desert” for obvious reasons. We learn that the “Spirit” of God is not confined by the location of the majority but does what it has been instructed to do by God down to the last. God takes some of the Spirit from Moses and lays it on the seventy elders, the elders immediately started to prophesy however only the once. Two of the elders had stayed back in the camp but the spirit came upon them, and they also began to prophesy. Joshua takes exception because they had not bothered to come to the assembly. Moses shows how mature he is by not taking exception, in fact, he would be delighted if the whole people were so caught up in the Spirit. The Spirit had been instructed to fall upon the seventy elders, and it didn’t matter where they were, the Spirit settled upon all seventy. We see how the Spirit is intrinsically linked to God, and how that is the Spirit’s sole task, to fulfil the “Will of God”, not man.
Psalm 18: 8, 10, 12-14. God is revealed in his Law, which illustrates God’s wisdom and trust. God’s law is just and impartial, it is for everyone, even the simple and the poor. The Spirit of God is contained within his wise and just laws, which is for all.
2nd Reading from the letter of St. James 5: 1-6. We cannot avoid the conclusion that within James’s community were wealthy people who saw no connection between their faith and the way they behaved. They were obsessed with the accumulation of wealth at the expense of the poor, who were paid less than their worth. Cheating the poor cries out to God for retribution. God has no room for the exploiter or exploitation. It brings its own punishment because as they exploit the poor members of the community, they are exploiting Christ himself, as was illustrated to Paul on the road to Damascus when Jesus cried out to him, “Why are you persecuting me?” Jesus clearly aligns himself with those who follow him. Anything done to one of his brothers or sisters is done to Him. Something we must all keep in our minds when dealing with people.
The Holy Gospel according to Mark 9: 38-43, 45, 47-48. We see another echo from the Old Testament, notice the similarity between John and Joshua. Someone outside the group is being moved by the Spirit, without their permission, and Jesus, like Moses, will not hear of them being silenced. Jesus also confirms that whatever is done to one of the least of his people is done to him. In our baptism we are filled with the Spirit who is at one with the Father and Jesus. As we go through life, we should always be mindful of Jesus dwelling within the least of his people. That way: We will always treat each other with care and respect, as if addressing Jesus himself.
God grace us to always seek You in those we encounter. Deacon Vincent.
If you have a child born between 1 September 2020 and 31 August 2021, then now is the time to apply for a place at a primary school for admission from September 2025 onwards. You must complete an application form that is available from the school admissions team of South Gloucestershire Council.
If your child has been baptised and you are applying for a Catholic school, you must also provide a copy of the baptism certificate to the school.
Please ensure you apply by the closing date of 15 January 2025.
We’ve got some exciting news to share with you from our school's PTFA.
Parentkind – a charity that supports school PTAs - have teamed up with Asda, who is making millions of pounds available to donate to primary schools across the UK through their ‘Cashpot for Schools’ initiative. To support our PTA, all you have to do is opt-in through the Asda Rewards app, choose our school, shop and scan in store or shop online at Asda.com.
It’s as easy as 1,2,3 1. Download the Asda Rewards app, register and opt-in to Cashpot for Schools (make sure you have the latest version of the app installed) 2. Choose our Primary School – either searching by name or postcode 3. Shop instore across Asda and George, or online at Asda.com and start filling your Cashpot as you shop Asda does the rest, all money raised will be donated to schools to spend on the things they need the most. We are aiming to spend our donations on further Ipads for the children. Between 2nd September and 30th November 2024 – every time you shop with Asda using your Asda Rewards app, Asda will donate 0.5% of the value of your shop to your chosen Primary school. Also, every time somebody opts-in to support our Primary school, Asda will give an additional £1 to the school Cashpot. Plus, it doesn’t stop there – Asda are also giving £50 to every school to get them started. Remember, anyone can sign up – so start spreading the news and raising funds for our school.
It's back! 😃 Sunday 20th October - from 7pm - get your team of 'about 6' together and come along to another fun Quiz Night ("A Simple Quiz for Simple People!") with Mike Ryan and gang, raising money for our 2 parish projects, Brandon Trust and Little Sisters of the Poor St Joseph’s Care Home Bristol . Just £5 pp to enter and with a raffle, games and cuppas on sale it will be another brilliant night out together. (Don't forget your pound coins for the famous 'heads n tails' game) BYO drinks and nibbles for your table and get revising some very general knowledge! Tickets on sale after Mass or from the parish office.
Thanks Deacon Vincent for your reflections for Twenty-Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
1st Reading from the book of Wisdom 2: 12, 17-20. Early Christians would have immediately looked at these verses and instantly have thought of those who persecuted Jesus to death, for it aligns with the Gospel narratives. The authorities whilst proclaiming their loyalty to God, saw in Jesus an annoying virtuous man. They were unable to find any fault to lay on him, so lets’ put him to the test, the ultimate test, lets’ kill him. Jesus, the Word, is the real virtuous man and they hate him; was it jealousy, or fear he would stir up trouble with the Romans, and their livelihoods would be at stake? Whatever their motive, here in Wisdom is a perfect picture of their actions. Once again there is an echo in the New Testament from the Old Testament. The two Testaments are interwoven.
Psalm53: 3-6, 8. A song to God my helper. Following on from our first reading, this song relates how God upholds the virtuous man, whether in the here and now or in the future, God will rectify the wrong inflicted upon his virtuous followers. God is very near to his people; they are never abandoned. This is a wonderful song of hope in a just God.
2nd Reading from the letter of St. James 3: 16-4: 3. There are strong links with Paul to the Galatians here in the listing of the virtues from above and the opposed views from below. Above comes from God, and below from the evil one. The reference to “Peacemakers” could be linked with the seventh beatitude of the Sermon on the Mount. James is carefully interweaving other sources into his letter to give greater emphasis to what is being proclaimed. It is laying out true wisdom and how to avoid future troubles in the community. This is a very pastoral letter that James has composed for his people.
The Holy Gospel according to Mark 9: 30-37. This is the second time that Jesus predicts his death and resurrection, but they haven’t the foggiest idea of what he is telling them, but they do not have the bottle to ask him what he is meaning. They seem more interested in seeking out the number one Apostle amongst them. Jesus needs to stop this sort of talk amongst his chosen men. If you wish to be the leader, you must be the servant of all. Anyone who welcomes a little one in Jesus’ name welcomes Jesus himself, but more than this he welcomes the one who sent Jesus; God himself. As we look at any stranger, we need to understand that God has been there first, we are in fact looking at God in each other. That way we will always respect each other and treat each other with care. This is the Gospel life, illustrated for us in each of the passages of the Holy Gospels. So, we go from Gospel to life and life to Gospel.
God, grace us to find you in each other, and grant us “Peace”. Deacon Vincent
Update 1 - They set off early and the weather has been kind so far . Fr Jim has them organised, military style..... Photo of them walking through the Codrington Estate (or is it GODrington?)
If you would like to donate to the walk, all money raised will go towards the costs of the beautiful new banners in the church.
Sponsored walk - update 2... Time for a break.
"We are 12... so have nicknamed ourselves the Apostles.... but which one is Judas?!"
Sponsored walk update 3...
Over half way now - 13km completed and time to stop and rehydrate.
Everyone is enjoying the walk and Sandra loves it so much she wants to walk back!
Fr Jim: "We are truly Blessed with people on this walk."
...although Mike Norris might be considering alternative transport!
Sponsored walk update 4 .... They reached Dyrham Park and it looks nicely downhill now... Keep going, team! We are with you in spirit
Sponsored walk update 5... "if you go down in the woods today..."
Sponsored walk update 6... Parishes in Communion A lovely photos of John and Eileen together on the walk with such beautiful views behind them.
Sponsored walk update 7... They are on a 'roll' now (get it!?) as they've passed Pennsylvania (not that one) and are heading to Cold Ashton. .....although, who said no more hills!!!
Sponsored walk update 8.... Sandra was 'chewing the fat' with some beautiful girls whilst eating her lunch, then even more ladies turned up to join in! And Pauls' found his transport back to Kingswood!
If I could talk to the animals...
Update 9 ...and they're off again
Update 10 ...taking a moment to look back at the beauty of where they have just walked... what a wonderful view
"Our Mini Camino was blessed in every way, with perfect weather, enthusiastic supporters and not least the faithful pilgrims. Any Camino is about walking in trust with the Lord and with any companions he may send. It’s a lesson in abandonment and faith. We had a most magnificent spirit filled day even though we did not quite reach our intended destination, but that too is part of accepting providence and walking in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in the way of faith. Thank you to all who helped and supported the Camino. God bless. Blessings!" Fr Jim
'Big Parenting Questions' is a brand-new event for mums, dads and carers, designed to offer hope and help as they navigate the leap their children are making from childhood to adolescence. It’s packed with practical advice and strategies to help parents feel better equipped to come alongside their child as they try and establish their identity, assert their independence and find their place in the world. You’ll come away with … • An understanding of the Big Parenting Questions ‘Why is everything changing?’, ‘How can I keep the connection?’, ‘What can I do to protect them?’ and ‘Who are they becoming?’ • Practical ways to stay connected with your child whilst letting them go • Strategies to keep your child safe, both in the real world and online • Ways to help your child establish their identity and develop independence • Fresh optimism and confidence as well as practical tools and vision for your parenting, your child, and your relationship going forwards • Bonus content to watch at home to help you with even more specific big parenting questions Book tickets: cff.org.uk/bigparenting
Reflections for Twenty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, from Deacon Vincent.
1st Reading from the prophet Isaiah 50: 5-9. A notable feature of the Second Isaiah (Deutero-Isaiah) is the existence of four famous “Songs of the Suffering Servant”, of which this is the third song. Together these poems or songs present us with a picture of God’s ideal servant. His task to bring home the scattered people of God, and who in consequence will suffer grievously. Early Christians saw these as prophetic visions of Jesus Christ, who was the “Ideal Servant”, in fact the only Son of God, the second Adam, the one was obedient to the Father unto death. The songs or poems are very graphic and moving to read and ponder over, for Jesus had these songs as part of his mental furniture. He always knew what would befall him. The big test for Jesus was to keep faith that the Father would vindicate his suffering, which the Father did spectacularly with Jesus’ Resurrection. We are, as followers of Jesus, asked to keep faith whilst his Holy Church is being crucified anew.
Psalm 114: 1-6, 8-9. For those who think God is far distant from us and only interested in the important people of the world, this song is a direct contradiction of such a notion. This is a very personal psalm of thanksgiving, for God has, “heard the cry of my appeal”. It goes on to say that “God has compassion”, and, “The Lord protects the simple hearts;” “I was helpless so he saved me.” This is the cry of a simple person who has found that God does hear the cry of his little people. God is no respector of rank or status, all are his children, and God is very close to us. Our Judaic fathers were always aware of the closeness of God, and we could do well to make ourselves far more familiar with this realisation that God is always VERY CLOSE TO US.
2nd Reading from the letter of St. James 2: 14-18. James is emphasising that Faith that does not lead to action is in fact “DEAD”. Faith in Father, Son and Holy Spirit leads us to follow the Gospel life, and if we are living the Gospel life it will drive us into action on behalf of the WORD. Jesus was driven to show God’s love for his people, our faith must also show the people, “Just How Much God Loves Them.” If we believe in God, then God is Love, so we also must love as God does, and fill where there is a need for love and care for our brothers and sisters.
The Holy Gospel according to Mark 8: 27-35.
We continue with Jesus educating the disciples. He starts with asking how his message was being received by asking them who do the people say, “I am?” They roll out, “some say John the Baptist,” others said, “Elijah”, and others one of the prophets. Then Jesus asks us “Who do you say I am?”. Peter answers for us when he says, “You are the Christ.” Now Jesus attempts to show them how he will suffer like the suffering servant of our first reading and be killed but after three days rise again. Peter is horrified and takes Jesus aside and remonstrates with Jesus. Jesus rebukes Peter, who had gotten it so right a little while ago now spectacularly gets it wrong. Jesus says to Peter “Get behind me Satan! Because the way you think is not God’s way but man’s.” Now Jesus spells out for us our way of following the Gospel life. We must renounce ourselves and take up our cross and follow Jesus. This seems harsh, but once we put ourselves last, it liberates us, to love our neighbour for God’s sake.
God give us the grace to deny ourselves and follow in Jesus’ footsteps. Deacon Vincent.
CAKES!!!! This Sunday, in aid of our 2 Parish Projects (Brandon Trust and Little Sisters of the Poor St Joseph’s Care Home Bristol ) please come and enjoy a cuppa after Sunday Mass in the hall and browse the selection of delicious cakes! We always love donations of cakes for the sale too so if you are a budding Mary Berry then please bake for us (& label any allergens) - but if you are more of a Chuck Berry then you could always buy a pack from the shops! See you then!
