Ash Wednesday
Masses at 10am & 7pm in both Parishes. All the Cluster schools will have Services. It is a Day of Fasting for those over 16 (one main meal and two collations, which should be less than the main meal combined and abstinence from meat for those over 14).
 
Children’s Rosary Group
There will be a children’s rosary in the church on the first Friday of each month, commencing on Friday 4th March 2022 at 6:30 pm. This is an opportunity for children of all ages to gather together to pray the rosary.  This initiative has been running in other parishes in Scotland. All families are invited to attend and pre-school children are very welcome. The idea is that children as young as 4 or 5 and up to around 14 can learn to lead the rosary and make the rosary part of their daily lives. The rosary only lasts around 15 minutes and it is a lovely way to start the Lenten season as the Sunday obligation resumes. Please contact Lesley Ward if you need any further information (lesley@giffnockwards.co.uk 07910266821).
 
World Day of Prayer
Neilston Parish Church this Friday 4th March at 1:30pm. Tea/Coffee afterwards. All welcome!

Singers for 11:30am Mass
To join us at the 11:30am Mass please come up to the Choir Loft or call Alison on 07821 658845.
 
Healing Service
There will be a Healing Service taking place here in St John's on Tuesday 8th March at 7pm. Fr Joe and Joe Livingston will speak on the theme of Forgiveness, with Confession also available.
 
Safeguarding Training Part 2 Church Volunteers
For those who have previously attended Safeguarding Training Part One, or Safeguarding Training Level One, you can attend on Tuesday 1st March at 7pm in St. John’s hall.  To register for this session, this Tuesday 1st March in St John’s Hall, go to https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/266920525477 or go to Diocesan Website.
 
Friday 4th March 2022: Day of Prayer all those who have experienced abuse
& Monthly Mass & Holy Hour (7pm-9pm)
Please come along and pray for children, young people and vulnerable adults whose lives have been scarred by the abuse they have experienced at the hands of those whom they trusted.  Pray also for all engaged in the pursuit of peace, healing and reconciliation for the abused, the needy, the weak and the vulnerable.

200 Club St Thomas
Jan: Isabel McLeish & 2nd Theresa Millar.
Feb: Alice Meehan & 2nd Pat Layden.
Monies can be collected from the Sacristy. Winner £60, Second £30.
 
Scottish Catholic Magazine
Now available at £2. Please place monies in Paper Box.

SCIAF Envelopes (including Wee Box)
These are now available to take home and return after Easter Sunday.
 
Marriages in 2022
Please get in touch with Fr Joe to confirm marriage & arrange to complete Pre-Nuptial Enquiry Forms as soon as possible.
 
Young Adults (18-30) 30th March
Fr Patten will speak on the Sacrament of Confession from 7pm in St Mirin's Cathedral. Holy Mass at 6pm and followed by Adoration and Benediction. Connect with us on social media (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram).

We pray for those who have died recently
Paul Patrick Brophy, Esmeralda Coates, Kevin Finnell, Jim Connelly, Catherine McCreath, and Mary McGrory;
and the 3 months' mind of
James Fleming;
and the 6 months' mind of
Jane Devenny, Frank McAloon, and Michelle McCormick;
and for the Anniversaries of
​Susan Chalmers, Maurice Docherty, Bill Gilmour, Grace Glenroy, Catherine Guthrie, Dominic Greenan, Ellen Hendry, Edward & Elizabeth Hendry, Christiane Heinrich, Annie & John Lawson, Duncan McInnes, James Mullen, Billy Quinn, Helen Trainor, Moya Wilson, and Frances Winning.

This weekend 2nd Collection “Let the Children Live”. Fr Peter Walters will speak about his work with street children and children from the shanty towns of Medillin, Columbia at all Masses this weekend. He will make an appeal on behalf of his Small Charity that feeds and schools and provides accommodation for these vulnerable children.
 
Daily Mass changes this week
St John's Mass only on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday
St Thomas' on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.
 
Divine Mercy Monthly Devotions
Mass is at 7pm and followed by Adoration on Wednesday 23rd February at St Mary’s Church, 163 George Street, Paisley PA1 2UN.
 
Children’s Rosary Group
There will be a children’s rosary in the church on the first Friday of each month, commencing on Friday 4th March 2022 at 6:30pm. This is an opportunity for children of all ages to gather together to pray the rosary.  This initiative has been running in other parishes in Scotland. All families are invited to attend and pre-school children are very welcome. The idea is that children as young as 4 or 5 and up to around 14 can learn to lead the rosary and make the rosary part of their daily lives. The rosary only lasts around 15 minutes and it is a lovely way to start the Lenten season as the Sunday obligation resumes. Please contact Lesley Ward if you need any further information (lesley@giffnockwards.co.uk 07910266821).
 
4O Days for Life
This Lent the 40 Days for Life prayer group in Scotland will hold its annual vigil outside the maternity unit at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Glasgow. From Ash Wednesday 2nd March until Palm Sunday 10th April, from 8am until 8pm the site will be manned daily. As you can imagine this is a big undertaking, but we have managed to do it for the past five years. Today I ask you to join the Pro-Life cause by signing up for a slot during the 40 days, come hail, rain or shine. Usually, people give an hour of their time when we say the Joyful, Sorrowful and Glorious Mysteries. Please contact Matt Lynch on 07971234313.
 
World Day of Prayer
This will take place in Neilston Parish Church on Friday 4th March at 1:30pm. Tea/Coffee afterwards. All welcome!
 
Singers for 11:30am Mass
If you would like to join us at the 11:30am Mass please come up to the Choir Loft or call Alison on 07821 658845.
 
Healing Service
There will be a Healing Service taking place here in St John's on Tuesday 8th March at 7pm. Fr Joe and Joe Livingston will speak on the theme of Forgiveness, with Confession also available.
 
Funerals this week
St John's
Ann Ferry on Thursday 24th February at 10am.
St Thomas'
Edward Cathcart on Friday 25th February at 10am.
 
Safeguarding Training Part 2 Church Volunteers
This training session is for Church volunteers who have previously attended Safeguarding Training Part One, or Safeguarding Training Level One, more than eighteen months ago. You can attend on Wednesday 23rd February at 10:30am in St Mirin’s hall or on Tuesday 1st March at 7pm in St John’s hall. If you would like to register for this session, please visit Eventbrite and search for Diocese of Paisley, Safeguarding Training, or visit the following https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/266920525477
 
We pray for those who have died recently:
​Agnes & William Brennan, Danny Campbell, Edward Cathcart, Ann Ferry, Kevin Finnell, Iain Lindsay, Kathleen McDonald;
and for the Anniversaries of:
Robert Collins, Susan Connolly, Jim Cook, Anne Docherty, Willie Donn, Bridget Duffin, Ruby Duffin, William Graham, Charles Henry, Norah Lafferty, Laraine Lee, Fay & Frank Lennon, Thomas McAllister, Mary McClune, Neil McDade, Tommy McGauley, Philip McKenna, Moira McNeil, Robert Martin, and Frances Winning.
Clergy Anniversaries: Fr. Kevin Barry (1979), Canon John Doherty (2010) & Fr. James M. Quinn (1985)

Second Collection this weekend
Spred (Special Religious Development). This is a religious programme for Children/Adults with a learning disability.
 
Next weekend (19th/20th) Second Collection - “Let the Children Live”
Fr Peter Walters will speak about his work with street children and children from the shanty towns of Medillin, Columbia at all Masses next weekend. He will make an appeal of behalf of his Small Charity that feeds and schools and provides accommodation for these vulnerable children.
 
Month's Mind Mass for Canon Benedict O’Keeffe
This will be celebrated here in St John's this Tuesday 15th at 7pm.
 
Monthly Pro-Life Mass
This Wednesday, 16th February at 7:30pm at Holy Cross Church, 113 Dixon Ave, G42 8ER. Adoration begins at 6:15pm. 
 
Diocesan Priesthood
Thinking about Diocesan Priesthood in 2022? The Catholic Church in Scotland is now inviting enquiries from those considering applying for seminary. For more information please contact Fr. John Morrison tel: 01418895056 or email vocations@rcdop.org.uk
 
SYNOD 2023 – Responses
Pope Francis has invited All Catholics to express their dreams, ideas and concerns in preparation for the Synod of Bishops in 2023. The pope's invitation to discern a path forward for the church stems from his belief that the Holy Spirit inspires all members to be missionary disciples, sharing core Christian beliefs by going out to the world. The diocese wants to hear your views, and a consultation document with questions that may help direct your response can be found on www.rcdop.org.uk . All responses to Synod23@rcdop.org.uk before 8th April 2022. All responses will be acknowledged. The Parish Council will also discuss the Consultation Document.
 
The Joy of Love - Pope Francis on Love, Marriage and Family Life
Come and learn more about the beautiful vision of God's plan for human love, marriage and family life contained in Pope Francis' Apostolic Exhortation Amoris Laetitia. To participate in the special year devoted to this exhortation, a series of five evenings explaining and exploring this vision begins on Thursday 17th February in St. Mirin's Cathedral hall from 7:30pm. Specially recorded videos by Pope Francis will be followed by short presentations on the exhortation, along with opportunities for discussion and questions, and a chance to socialise over refreshments. The evening should finish around 9pm. Please register at https://rcdop.org.uk/amoris-laetitia-evening-registration
 
Safeguarding Training – Part Two – Church Volunteers
There will be a Part Two training session taking place on Wednesday 23rd February at 10:30am in the parish hall at St. Mirin’s Cathedral, Paisley.  This training session is for Church volunteers who have previously attended Safeguarding Training Part One, or Safeguarding Training Level One, more than eighteen months ago.  If you would like to register for this session, please visit Eventbrite and search for Diocese of Paisley, Safeguarding Training, or type in the following link on Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/266920525477
 
St Thomas'
No Saturday Morning Mass or Confessions next Saturday the 19th February.

We pray for those who have died recently:
Tony Brady, Edward Cathcart, Margaret Henaghan;
and for the 6 month's mind of:
Kevin Markey;
and the Anniversaries of:
John Bennett, Ronnie Burns, Sarah Burns, James Carroll, John & Mary Dickson, John & May Ferguson, William Finnigan, Bernadette Hartley, Marjorie & William Heaney, Lucy Hughes, Patricia Hughes, William Kelly, Tommy Leckie, George Mitchell, Lucy Mitchell, Catherine Moore, Marjorie Morrison, Kathleen McCann, Bridget & William McGuire, James McLaughlin, George & Isabel McMillan, Kenny & Patricia Ross, Sadie Ross, Henry Szuster, and Rena Weldon.

Second Collection this weekend: Monthly Building Fund.
Second Collection Next weekend: SPRED.
 
The Obligation to attend Sunday Mass and Holy Days
This will be reinstated on the First Sunday of Lent, 6th March 2022. There will, of course, be some people who do not have the confidence to return yet, but please encourage those who are fit and healthy, and confident, to return to Mass if they have not yet done so. The following measures should still remain in place:

• the sanitising of hands on entering and leaving churches;
• the wearing of face coverings;
• continued good ventilation.

Please do not attend Mass or Liturgies if they are carrying an infection or have any symptoms of Covid. Please be aware of those around about you, especially those who may be more vulnerable.

SYNOD 2023 – Responses
Pope Francis has invited All Catholics to express their dreams, ideas and concerns in preparation for the Synod of Bishops in 2023. The pope's invitation to discern a path forward for the church stems from his belief that the Holy Spirit inspires all members to be missionary disciples, sharing core Christian beliefs by going out to the world. The diocese wants to hear your views, and a consultation document with questions that may help direct your response can be found on www.rcdop.org.uk. All responses to Synod23@rcdop.org.uk before 8th April 2022. All responses will be acknowledged. The Parish Council will also discuss the Consultation Document.
 
Commonwealth Grave War Commission
This group are trying to find some more background and information for the names on the War Memorial Windows in St Thomas. Do any parishioners at St Thomas/St John's have any Neilston or Barrhead soldier’s pictures. If so, please contact Tony Carlin tony_carlin@btinternet.com so that he can build the stories of the soldiers who were lost.
 
January 100 Club Draw (St John's)
1st No 116 Ase Smith
2nd No 10 Margaret Cassidy
3rd No 49 Thomas Reilly
4th No 47 Margaret Docherty
5th No 4 Gerald Morrow
You can pick up your winnings from the Sacristy. You can see the poster with more details in porch.
 
The Joy of Love - Pope Francis on Love, Marriage and Family Life
Come and learn more about the beautiful vision of God's plan for human love, marriage and family life contained in Pope Francis' Apostolic Exhortation Amoris Laetitia. To participate in the special year devoted to this exhortation, a series of 5 evenings explaining and exploring this vision begins on Thursday 17th February in St. Mirin's Cathedral hall from 7:30pm. Specially recorded videos by Pope Francis will be followed by short presentations on the exhortation, along with opportunities for discussion and questions, and a chance to socialise over refreshments. The evening should finish around 9pm. Everyone interested is most welcome to any or all of these evenings. In order to manage social distancing and catering, please register at https://rcdop.org.uk/amoris-laetitia-evening-registration
 
We pray for those who have died recently, especially
Kathleen Brown, Harry Burns Snr, Winnie Doherty, Marie Ennis, Patrick O’Dowd, James Thomson, Margaret Henaghen;
and the 6 months' mind of
Patricia Campbell;
and for the Anniversaries of
Molly Ball, John Darroch, John Dickson,  Hiughie Duffy, Hannah Duggan, Mari-Loiuse Flannigan, Julia Ann Gillespie, Paul Goodwin, Jenny Hughes Hannigan, George Logue, Edward McCool, Kathleen McCool, Margaret McCool, Maureen McGrath, Bridget & William McGuire, Kathleen McHugh, Mary Hill, Rose Houston, David Reynolds, Patrick Reynolds, Jane Ronald, Robert Stewart, Martha Stirling, Pat Walker, Betty & Danny Williamson.

Clergy Anniversaries: Canon Thomas Jamieson (2003).

Sacred Heart Companions prayer Group
Meeting this Tuesday 8th February  in the Tea room from 1pm-2pm.

Second Collection this weekend
Sick & Retired Priests of the Diocese.
 
200 Club St Thomas'
It is not too late to re-join or join for 2022. First draw won't take place until weekend of either 30th January or 6th February.
 
Divine Mercy Monthly Devotions
Holy Mass at 7pm, followed by Adoration on Wednesday 26th January which will be in St Mary’s Church, 163 George Street, Paisley. These devotions will be held on the last Wednesday of every month so please put a note in your diary. Please note there will be no Divine Mercy Mass in the months of July, August and December.
 
Diocesan Priesthood
Thinking about Diocesan Priesthood in 2022? The Catholic Church in Scotland is now inviting enquiries from those considering applying for seminary. For more information please contact Fr. John Morrison tel: 01418895056 or email vocations@rcdop.org.uk
 
Family Planning - God’s Way - Nature’s Way
www.fertilitycare.org.uk
The Billings Ovulation Method of Natural Fertility Regulation is very helpful for couples having difficulty conceiving and 99% effective in avoiding pregnancy with no side effects.
 
Would you like to join our Diocesan Choir?
Rehearsals begin on the 27th January, at 7pm in St Mirin’s Cathedral. Contact our Diocesan Director of Music, Michael, at director.music@rcdop.org.uk confirming your attendance.
 
Young Adults (18-30)
Conor and Naomi Gildea will speak on The Sacrament of Matrimony from 7pm in St Mirin's Cathedral this Wednesday 26th January. The event is preceded by Holy Mass at 6pm and followed by adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction. The opportunity to meet for drinks after our event is subject to restrictions. Connect with us, on social media (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram).
 
SYNOD 2023 – Responses
Pope Francis has invited all Catholics to express their dreams, ideas and concerns in preparation for the Synod of Bishops in 2023. The pope's invitation to discern a path forward for the church stems from his belief that the Holy Spirit inspires all members to be missionary disciples, sharing core Christian beliefs by going out to the world. The diocese wants to hear your views, and a consultation document with questions that may help direct your response can be found on www.rcdop.org.uk. All responses to Synod23@rcdop.org.uk before 8th April 2022. All responses will be acknowledged. The Parish Council will also discuss the Consultation Document.
 
Beginning Experience
Weekend for those experiencing Bereavement through divorce, separation or widowhood.  From 25th-27th March in St Mary’s Monastery, Kinnoull, Perth. Completed applications by 12th March. Call Catherine on 0131 665 3383 or email beginningexperiencescotland@hotmail.com  for details.

Funerals in St John's
Tuesday 25th January: Marion Breen
Wednesday 26th January: William Drummond
Thursday 27th January: Agnes Preece

Funeral for Fr Benny O’Keeffe
St Andrews, Greenock, at 12 Noon on Friday 28th January and internment in St Convals, Barrhead at 2pm.

We pray for those who have died recently
Marion Breen, William Drummond, Fr Benny O’Keeffe, Agnes Preece, Mary Carol Tamburrini, Joe Wilkinson;
and for the Anniversaries of
Leonard Bradley, Mary Buchanan, Jim Casey, Elizabeth & John Connelly, Rose Gormlie, Reta Owens, Betty & Billy McShane, Lex Shields, Annie Wylie, Alec Wylie, Sandra Wylie.
 
Diocesan Clergy Anniversaries
Fr. Kevin Whitty (1955), Fr. Simon Keane (1951), Canon James M. Lillia (1979).

Second Collection this weekend
Monthly Building transferred from last weekend due to Justice & Peace Collection.
 
A Big Thank You
Fr Joe & Fr Jonathan would like to thank you for your Christmas cards, greetings and gifts. We were very touched by your generosity and encouragement. Also, a sincere thank you to all those who gave of their time for the Liturgies over Christmas: our florists, musicians, organists & choirs, sacristans & altar servers, cleaners, stewards & pass keepers, extra-ordinary minister & readers, children’s liturgy, and those who put up the cribs, decorations and tree.
 
Welcome to Colm Docherty
We welcome Colm, who is one of our Diocesan Seminarians and is studying at St Mary’s College, Oscott, England. He arrived on Thursday 6th Jan and will be with us to gain Pastoral experience until the 19th of January.
 
Archbishop Tartaglia RIP
On Thursday 13th January, we will mark the first anniversary since the death of Archbishop Tartaglia, the fourth Bishop of the Diocese of Paisley. The 10am Mass at St Mirin’s Cathedral will be celebrated by Bishop Keenan on Thursday. All are welcome to attend.
 
Faith, Family and Fraternity: A Call to Service
Supporting our clergy, serving in our parishes, helping the needy and developing our personal and family faith with like- minded men.  If you are a man aged 16 or over, Province 1 of the KSC is recruiting in the Diocese just now. For more information on how to join Britain’s largest Catholic layman’s organisation, call John O’Donnell on 07854 886425 or email: pgk@glasgow.ksc.org.uk     
 
Think Vocation
“God, here I am! I am coming to do your will."
Can you make that offer, to put yourself at the disposal of God’s plan for his people and for the world?  Fr. John Morrison on 01418895056 or email vocations@rcdop.org.uk
 
Funeral in St John's
Thursday 13th January: Felix Ferguson.
 
Marriage and family webpage
The Diocese have a dedicated page on the website for Marriage and Family life. It contains a wealth of information, support and resources for many aspects of this important vocation. For more information please visit https://rcdop.org.uk/marriage-family-life-2
 
Online Marriage Counselling available during Covid 19 Crisis
Our Diocese has a Counselling Service for Catholics Married in the Catholic Church with our dedicated Catholic Marriage Counsellor. If you are concerned about your relationship and feel you are both unable to reach a conclusion alone, it is likely that you will benefit from marriage counselling.  The counsellor is there to maintain a neutral, non-judgmental position. counselling@rcdop.org.uk
 
Blessing of houses
Fr Joe & Fr Jonathan hope to begin blessing your homes this week. We will call you first to  arrange a convenient time. 
 
We pray for those who have died recently, especially
Joe Coyne, Tony Docherty, Felix Ferguson;
and for the Anniversaries of
John Anderson, Mary Armstrong, Helen Bannatyne, James Connor, Willie Devine, Robert Furie, Robert Gribbon, Maria Hannigan, Bob Malany, Clare Murray, Charles McAleavy, Dominic McCue, Jean McFadyen, Margaret McIlreavy, Gregg Thomas McMaster, Morag MacNeil, Margaret Sandford, Margaret & Owen Taylor;
and the anniversaries of the deaths of our dear priests who have returned to the Lord around the Advent and Christmas Seasons
Canon Eugene Divney (1976), Monsignor Hugh Gallagher (2002), Canon William Harkins (2015), Canon Michael Teehan (1976), Canon Robert Barclay (1971),  Fr. Patrick Burke (1991), Canon Thomas Nolan (2015), Monsignor Peter Murphy (1999), Canon Andrew Reid (2005), Canon James Fisher (1977), Canon Joseph Quinn (2005), Fr. Joseph Alexander (2003), and Canon Patrick Cummins (1972).

Obligation to attend Mass on Sundays/Holy Days of Obligation
This obligation will be re-instated from Sunday 2nd January 2022, the Solemnity of the Epiphany.
 
CHRISTMAS MASSES

​Rorate Mass: This Wednesday 22nd December at 7:30am
The Mass is celebrated in candle light, beginning in darkness and ending as a new day dawns, and we await, Christ the Light of the world.

Assisted Suicide Public Consultation
https://www.spuc.org.uk/assisteddyingscotlandconsultation
The consultation is running until Wednesday 22 December 21. Please take time to complete.

Jesse Tree
The vouchers have been distributed to our local schools. Thank you for your generosity.
 
Gentle Reminder
Please continue to wear face-masks (unless exempt) and to sanitise your hands on entering/leaving the Church and sign in and to respect people’s personal space. Thank you.
 
St Thomas 200 Club
Margaret Wood will be available this weekend of 18/19 Dec after Mass for renewing or wishing to join for next year. It is £10 per number for the year, one draw, each month except for July & August. (50% of proceeds to prize winners and 50% for church funds)
 
Oratory Christmas Closure
Please note that the Oratory will be closed for Eucharistic Adoration from 9:00pm on Wednesday, December 22nd until 10:30am on Wednesday, January 5th.
 
Blessing of homes January 2022
We are reviving a beautiful tradition of the Church called “House Blessings”. As we begin a New Year, Fr Joe/Jonathan will be delighted to visit your home to offer the Lord’s blessing and protection for the year ahead. To arrange a visit, cut off the slip at the bottom of your bulletin and return with details completed as soon as possible.
 
Vigil Mass in St Thomas from weekend 8th January 2022
The Vigil Mass will revert back to 4pm. However, if one of the priests is away, the Mass will be cancelled.
 
We pray for those who have died recently, especially
Gavin Boyle, George McGuire, Catherine Lawless, John Michael Mooney;
the 1st month's mind of
Helen Markey;
the 3 months' mind of
Tony McLachlan;
the 6 months' mind of
Brian Tinney;
and for the Anniversaries of
John Boyle, John & Helen Carroll,  Mariano  Coelho, Andy Divers, Thomas Guthrie, John & Rose Farrell, James Hallan Snr, Ann Hannigan, Vincent Hannigan, Jack Kennedy, Elizabeth Mooney, Jim & Margaret Murphy, Maureen McGuire, Sheila & Susan McKee, Nancy McKenna, James McQuade, Marc Smith, and Thomas Wood.

Marriage Preparation Courses
Please download the file below for information on courses for couples preparing for the sacrament of marriage.

Obligation to attend Mass on Sundays/Holy Days of Obligation
This obligation will be re-instated from Sunday 2nd January 2022, the Solemnity of the Epiphany.
 
Christmas Masses
St John's
24th Dec: Vigil Mass 5:30pm. Midnight Mass (12 midnight).
Christmas Morning: 10am & 11:30am.
St Thomas
24th Dec: Vigil Masses 5pm, 7pm
Christmas Morning: 10am.

Funeral in St John's
Gerald Finnell on Monday 13th December at 10am.
 
Sacred Heart Companions Prayer Group
Meeting in Tea Room this Tuesday 14th December from 1pm-2pm.
 
Rorate Mass: Each Wednesday of Advent at 7:30am
The Mass is celebrated in candle light, beginning in darkness and ending as a new day dawns, and we await, Christ the Light of the world.
 
Monthly Pro-Life Mass
This Wednesday, 15th December at 7:30pm at Holy Cross, 113 Dixon Ave, G42 8ER. Adoration begins at 6:15pm and Confession will be available throughout. The celebrant will be Fr Ben Mournian.
 
Men on a Mission - Advent Evening: Thursday 16th December at 7:30pm
We invite all men of the Diocese to join us for an Advent Holy Hour in St. Mirin's Cathedral, followed by socialising over appropriate refreshments in the diocesan centre! Please register at https://rcdop.org.uk/mens-advent-holy-hour

Assisted Suicide Public Consultation
https://www.spuc.org.uk/assisteddyingscotlandconsultation
The consultation is running until Wednesday 22 December 21. Please take time to complete.

Jesse Tree (both Parishes)
We are inviting those who wish to help families in schools & community who maybe struggling to buy Shopping Vouchers to be given as Gifts from our Parishes. Please drop off vouchers in box/house. Please mark amount on outside of envelope.
 
Think vocation
“What must we do?” The people ask John for guidance. Are seeking advice on what God is asking of you too.  Diocesan Vocations Director, Fr. John Morrison Tel: 01418895056 / e-mail vocations@rcdop.org.uk  
 
Gentle Reminder
Please continue to wear face-masks (unless exempt) and to sanitise your hands on entering/leaving and to respect people’s personal space. Thank you.
 
St Thomas 200 Club:
Margaret Wood will be available next weekend of 18/19 Dec after Mass for renewing or wishing to join for next year. It is £10 per number for the year, one draw, each month except for July & August. (50% of proceeds to prize winners and 50% for church funds)
 
St John's 100 Club November Winners
1st £100 Mgt Cassidy No 10,
2nd £70 T & M Mc Bride No 11,
3rd £35 M. Collins No 63,
4th £20 Thos Reilly No 49,
5th £20 M M Davidson No 78.
 
Scottish Catholic Magazine
Newest copy available at £2. Place monies in Paper Box (St John's) and Stall box (St Thomas). If you want to order a copy see Fr Joe/Jonathan.
 
We pray for those who have died recently
Gerald Finnell,  John Keenan, Patricia Dailly, James McMillan, and Frank Ward;
and for the Anniversaries of
Margaret Carroll, Amelia Clarke, Winnie Colclough, Nessie Collins, David Davidson, Kathyrn Devlin, Isabella Docherty, Gerard Ellis, William Ellis, Thomas Hughes, Jim Minnery, Robert Minnery, Bernard & Susan McAllister Mary McAllister, Carol O’Donnell, Alex & Dolly Quinn, Mary & Tommy Sproul, Hugh Welsh, Canon Eugene Divney, Mon Hugh Gallagher,  Canon William Harkins,  Canon Michael Teehan, and Canon Robert Barclay.

This weekend: Monthly Building Fund
 
Obligation to attend Mass on Sundays/Holy Days of Obligation
This obligation will be re-instated from Sunday 2nd January 2022, the Solemnity of the Epiphany.
 
Rorate Mass: Each Wednesday of Advent at 7:30am
The Mass is celebrated in candle light, beginning in darkness and ending as a new day dawns, and we await, Christ the Light of the world.
 
Deanery Reconciliation/Confessions
The 4 Priests of the Deanery will hear Confessions in St Joseph’s Clarkston this Tuesday 7th December at 7pm and on Thursday 9th December here in St John's  at 7pm.

Assisted Suicide Public Consultation
We must send a strong message to Mr. McArthur, MSPs and the Scottish Government: that assisted suicide is a dangerous and unethical practice that must never be legalised in Scotland or any other part of the UK. The consultation is running until Wednesday 22 December 21. Please complete the questionnaire as soon as you can and encourage others to do the same. https://www.spuc.org.uk/assisteddyingscotlandconsultation

Closing Mass for the Year of St Joseph
The year dedicated to St Joseph will be formally closed with Mass at 7:00pm on Wednesday 8th December, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, in St Mirin’s Cathedral.
 
St Thomas 200 Club
Margaret Wood will be available after both Masses on the weekend of 18/19 December for those renewing or wishing to join for next year. It is £10 per number for the year, one draw, each month except for July & August. (50% of proceeds to prize winners and 50% for church funds)
 
Action of Barrhead Churches
ABC will be having their annual Carol Singing at Tesco at 10:30am on Saturday 18th December and wish to invite anyone who would be happy to join them. 
 
Gentle Reminder
Please continue to wear face-masks (unless exempt) and to sanitise your hands on entering/leaving and to respect people’s personal space. Thank you.
 
Men on a Mission - Advent Evening: Thursday 16th December at 7:30pm
We invite all men of the Diocese to join us for an Advent Holy Hour in St. Mirin's Cathedral, on Thursday 16th December at 7:30pm, followed by socialising over appropriate refreshments in the Diocesan centre. Please register at https://rcdop.org.uk/mens-advent-holy-hour
 
CHRISTMAS MASSES
St John's
24th Dec: Vigil Mass 5:30pm. Midnight Mass (12 midnight).
Christmas Morning: 10am, 11:30am.
St Thomas:
24th Dec: Vigil Masses 5pm, 7pm
Christmas Morning: 10am.

Funerals in St John's:
Mon 6th Dec: Bernard Lafferty.
Tues 7th Dec: Ellen Burns.

Jesse Tree (both Parishes)
We are inviting those who wish to help families in schools & community who maybe struggling to buy Shopping Vouchers to be given as Gifts from our Parishes. Please drop off vouchers in box/house.
 
Faith, Family and Fraternity - A Call to Service
Supporting our clergy, serving in our parishes, helping the needy and developing our personal and family faith with like- minded men. If you are a man aged 16 or over, Province 1 of the KSC is recruiting in the Diocese just now. Call John O’Donnell on 07854 886425 or email pgk@glasgow.ksc.org.uk 
 
We pray for those who have died recently, especially
Noreen Brennan, Ellen Burns, Gerald Finnell, James Fleming, Bernard Lafferty, Margaret Lillie, James McGowan, Martin Reilly;
the 1st month's mind of
Tom Cloherty;
and for the anniversaries of
Jane Balmer, Elliot Cleary, Gerald Conafray, George Docherty, John McFlynn, Ian McGarrigle, Catherine & Michael McGuire, John O’Neill, Jane Sloan, Monica Tipping.

Rorate Mass: Each Wednesday of Advent at 7:30am
The Rorate Mass takes its name from the opening words of the Introit, which comes to us from Isaiah 45:8: “Rorate, caeli, desuper, et nubes pluant justum, aperiatur terra, et germinet Salvatorem.”
“Drop down dew, ye heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain the just: let the earth be opened and bud forth a Saviour.”
 
Deanery Reconciliation/Confessions
The 4 Priests of the Deanery will hear Confessions in St Cadoc's, Newton Mearns, on Thursday 2nd December and St Joseph’s, Clarkston, on Tuesday 7th December, and on Thursday 9th December in St John's, Barrhead, all at 7pm.
 
Mary’s Meals
From 1st November 2021 to 31st January 2022, all donations up to a total of £1.6 million will be matched by a generous group of private donors.  Home | Mary's Meals UK (marysmeals.org.uk)

Assisted Suicide Public Consultation
We must send a strong message to Mr. McArthur, MSPs and the Scottish Government: that assisted suicide is a dangerous and unethical practice that must never be legalised in Scotland or any other part of the UK. The consultation is running until Wednesday 22 December. Please complete the questionnaire as soon as you can and encourage others to do the same. https://www.spuc.org.uk/assisteddyingscotlandconsultation

Closing Mass for the Year of St Joseph
The year dedicated to St Joseph will be formally closed with Mass at 7:00pm on Wednesday 8th December, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, in St Mirin’s Cathedral.
 
Evening of Reflection
Here in St John's on Friday 3rd December from 7pm-10pm. The evening begins with Holy Mass, Exposition, Meditations and Private prayer.
 
St John's Mass for deceased
The Annual Mass for those who have died in 2021 is on Monday 29th November at 7pm.
 
Why not buy a gift that means something for others? 
The Aid to the Church in Need and SCIAF websites have catalogues with gifts that really help others.
 
St Thomas 200 Club Prize Winners for November
1st (No 128) Clare Wood
2nd (No 148) Kevin MacDonald.
Margaret Wood will be available after both Masses on the weekend of 18th/19th December for those renewing or wishing to join for next year. It is £10 per number for the year, one draw each month except for July & August. (50% of proceeds to prize winners and 50% for church funds.)
 
SPUC Scotland
Support us by buying Christmas Cards from our online store.
 
The Cardinal Winning Pro-Life Initiative
We are holding a Grand Sale over the next couple of weeks. It’s at 104 Albert Road, Crosshill, Glasgow G42 8DR. See poster in porch on how to book slot and details of dates/times.
 
Marriage and family webpage
The Diocese have a dedicated page on the website for Marriage and Family life. https://rcdop.org.uk/marriage-family-life-2
 
Funerals in St John's
Tues 30 Nov: Elizabeth Anderson at 10am.
Thu 2 Dec: Thomas Connelly at 10am.
Mon 6 Dec: Bernard Lafferty at 10am.

We pray for those who have died recently:
Ellen Burns, Diane Carroll, Thomas Connelly, James Fleming, Bernard Lafferty, Elizabeth Anderson;
and for the three months mind of
Michelle McCormick;
and for the Anniversaries of
Martin Cuddihy, Frank Foy, Jackie Foy, Laura Janetta, Andrew Jardine, Joe McCormick, Monica McDade, Jean McKay, Bridget O’Donnell, and John O’Donnell.