News

THIS WEEK's NOTICE SHEET

THE PARISH AND COLLEGIATE CHURCH OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST.

www.stjohnthebaptistcoventry.org.uk, St. John the Baptist, Coventry follow us @StJohnCoventry

Rectory telephone 02476 711687

22^nd APRIL – FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER – GOOD SHEPHERD SUNDAY

TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Parish Mass

THIS WEEK

Monday 23^rd

St George

1.00pm

Mass

Tuesday 24^th

Feria

6.00pm

6.30pm

Confessions

Mass

Wednesday 25^th

St Mark

12.00noon

1.00pm

Rosary

Mass

Thursday 26^th

Feria

Friday 27^th

Feria

12.00noon

1.00pm

Service of Reflection

Lunchtime Serenade

Saturday 28^th

Feria

9.30am

Mass

NEXT SUNDAY

The Fifth Sunday of Easter

10.00am

PARISH MASS

FAMILY FUN, FOOD AND FAITH

The next family activity session takes place on Sunday 6 May between 12.00noon and 2.00pm. All are welcome to join us for this.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION

The next Service of Reflection takes place on Friday at 12.00noon, followed by a simple lunch.

DIOCESAN CENTENARY

On Friday 4 May, there will be an opportunity to ‘Ask the Archbishop’ as the Archbishop of Canterbury will attend a gathering to answer questions about Christian faith and life. This event is organised by the Acceler8 Team, and is particularly aimed at young adults (though anyone is welcome!). It takes place at Chilvers Coton Church, Avenue Road, Nuneaton, CV11 4NQ at 7.30pm. Do ask Fr Dexter if you’d like to know more.

On Saturday 5 May, a Centenary Festival will be celebrated in the Cathedral. Details of that are available on postcards at the back of church – do take one.

MAY DEVOTION

May is traditionally a month of devotion to Our Lady, and Society parishes will gather for a May Devotion on Saturday 19 May, at the Abbey Church of St Mary, Nuneaton.

The afternoon begins with Mass at 2.30pm. After refreshments, The Bishop of Warwick will speak on ‘Mary, Mother of the Church’, and at 4.30pm we will end with Benediction. All are welcome.

JAZZ AND SUPPER EVENING

A jazzy evening of music, monologues and poetry on the theme of love is taking place here at St John’s on Friday 18 May at 7.00pm. Tickets are £6, and include a buffet supper. Our friends from Unlock the Music are arranging this evening in aid of the piano restoration fund.

ANNUAL MEETINGS. The Annual Meeting of Parishioners to elect church wardens for the coming year, and the Annual Parochial Church Meeting both take place after Mass NEXT SUNDAY.

ASCENSION DAY

This year, Ascension Day falls on Thursday 10 May. We join our friends at St Luke’s, Holbrooks, at 7.30pm that evening for a joint celebration.

On days when the church is open the Regina Caeli is said at noon.

NOTICE SHEETS for Past Weeks

Rectory telephone 02476 711687

11^th MARCH – THE FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT / MOTHERING SUNDAY

TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Parish Mass

Monday 12^th

Feria

Tuesday 13^th

Feria

6.00pm

6.30pm

Confessions

Mass

Wednesday 14^th

Feria

12.00noon

1.00pm

Rosary

Mass

Thursday 15^th

Feria

1.10pm

Bablake School Concert

Friday 16^th

Feria

12.00noon

1.00pm

Stations of the Cross followed by Bible study

Lunchtime Serenade

Saturday 17^th

St Patrick

9.30am

Mass

NEXT SUNDAY

The Fifth Sunday of Lent

(Passion Sunday)

10.00am

PARISH MASS

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

During Lent, we use this acclamation before the Gospel: Praise to you, O Christ, King of eternal glory.

DILYS EASTICK RIP

The funeral of Dilys Eastick will take place on Tuesday, 13 March, at 12.00noon in the Cannon Hill Chapel of Canley Crematorium. May she rest in peace.

COVENTRY HALF MARATHON

Next Sunday will see some disruption as some roads are closed for the half marathon. Please use Junction 7 (Spon End-IKEA) The barrier at the back of the Odeon should be open so we can access Spon Street beyond the Odeon car park. The ring road will be open in both directions. People living in Coundon should come down the Radford Road which is open in the City Centre direction-crossing points on Barker Butts Lane close at 9.45am. The Holyhead Road from Morrisons to Allesley is open out of town only-to avoid this use the Allesley Old Road. For further details, see https://www.enjoycoventry.com/coventryhalf/

CONGRATULATIONS to Simon and Leah on the birth of baby George, born on Friday at 1.00pm, weighing seven pounds twelve ounces.

HOLY WEEK AT ST JOHN’S

Holy Week begins on Palm Sunday, and we will observe all the traditional ceremonies of this most important week of the year.

Palm Sunday, 25 March

10.00am Procession from the Lower Precinct and Sung Mass

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of Holy Week

6.30pm Stations of the Cross and Mass

Maundy Thursday, 29 March

7.30pm Sung Mass of the Lord’s Supper and Watch of prayer

Good Friday, 30 March

10.30am Stations of the Cross for the family

2.00pm Good Friday Liturgy

Holy Saturday, 31 March

8.00pm Easter Vigil

Easter Day, 1 April

10.00am Sung Mass with procession and Easter egg hunt

4^th MARCH – THE THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT

TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Parish Mass

THIS WEEK

Monday 5^th

Feria

Tuesday 6^th

Feria

6.00pm

6.30pm

Confessions

Mass

Wednesday 7^th

Ss Perpetua and Felicity

12.00noon

1.00pm

Rosary

Mass

Thursday 8^th

Feria

Friday 9^th

Feria

12.00noon

1.00pm

Stations of the Cross followed by Bible study

Lunchtime Serenade

Saturday 10^th

Feria

9.30am

3.00pm

Mass

Evening Prayer and Benediction

NEXT SUNDAY

The Fourth Sunday of Lent

(Mothering Sunday)

10.00am

PARISH MASS

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

During Lent, we use this acclamation before the Gospel: Praise to you, O Christ, King of eternal glory.

GUILD OF SERVANTS OF THE SANCTUARY

The meeting of the Guild planned for yesterday was postponed because of the weather. The Guild now plans to visit this coming Saturday at 3.00pm for their Guild Office and Benediction. All are welcome to join them for this act of worship.

VISITOR MINISTRY.

Mike reports that following a good February, our year total so far of 544 is 9% down on last year. Bearing in mind what the weather has thrown at us that is better news than we expected.

FOOD BANK.

Tim reports that total amount collected on Wednesday was a very impressive 78.35kg. He thanks the church again for all our support - food bank continues to be very busy so our donations are very much appreciated.

CHRISM MASS

Bishop Jonathan will celebrate his Chrism Mass at Lichfield Cathedral on the Wednesday of Holy Week, 28 March, at 11.30am. Lifts can be arranged. Please speak to Fr Dexter about that.

Bishop Christopher will celebrate the diocesan Chrism Mass in the Cathedral on Maundy Thursday at 10.30am.

LENT AT ST JOHN’S

Each week in Lent we offer the opportunity to pray the Stations of the Cross and engage in a short Bible study, looking at some of the passages of the Old Testament that will be read during Holy Week. We do that on Fridays at 12.00noon, after which there is the opportunity to share in a simple Lent lunch.

We are, once again, collecting for the work of the Additional Curates Society, which seeks to encourage vocations to ordination and to support parishes in need of clergy. Please take a collecting box and a prayer card from the back of church.

The opportunity to make your confession is available each Tuesday evening, and on Good Friday, or by appointment with Fr Dexter.

25^th FEBRUARY – THE SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT

TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Parish Mass

THIS WEEK

Monday 26^th

Feria

Tuesday 27^th

Feria

6.00pm

6.30pm

Confessions

Mass

Wednesday 28^th

Feria

12.00noon

1.00pm

Rosary

Mass

Thursday 1^st March

St David

7.00pm

Stations of the Cross followed by Bible study

Friday 2^nd

Feria

12.00noon

1.00pm

Stations of the Cross followed by Bible study

Lunchtime Serenade

Saturday 3^rd

Feria

9.30am

3.00pm

Mass

Evening Prayer and Benediction

NEXT SUNDAY

The Third Sunday of Lent

10.00am

PARISH MASS

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

GSS VISIT. On Saturday, we welcome the local chapter of the Guild of Servants of the Sanctuary, who will sing their Guild Office, a form of evening prayer, at 3.00pm. The service will end with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. All are welcome to join the Guild for this act of worship.

DILYS EASTICK RIP

The funeral of Dilys Eastick will take place on Tuesday 13 March at 12.00noon in the Cannon Hill Chapel of Canley Crematorium. May she rest in peace.

CYRILLE REGIS SERVICE

A Thanksgiving Service will be held next Sunday,

4 March, at 4.00pm in the Cathedral for the life and legacy of Cyrille Regis, who played in the winning Coventry City FA Cup Final Team and who helped to turn around the racism that was inherent in the game. Cyrille was also a very committed Christian. All are welcome to this service to remember him.

CHRISM MASS

Bishop Jonathan will celebrate his Chrism Mass at Lichfield Cathedral on the Wednesday of Holy Week, 28 March, at 11.30am. Lifts can be arranged. Please speak to Fr Dexter if you would like to go.

LENT AT ST JOHN’S

Our Lenten observance continues as we enter the second week of Lent.

Each week, we offer the opportunity to pray the Stations of the Cross and engage in a short Bible study, looking at some of the passages of the Old Testament that will be read during Holy Week. We do that on Thursdays at 7.00pm, and repeat the session on Fridays at 12.00noon. On Fridays there is the opportunity to share in a simple Lent lunch.

The opportunity to make your confession is available each Tuesday evening, and on Good Friday, or by appointment with Fr Dexter

18^th FEBRUARY – THE FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT

TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Parish Mass

THIS WEEK

Monday 19^th

Feria

Tuesday 20^th

Feria

6.00pm

6.30pm

Confessions

Mass

Wednesday 21^st

Feria

1.00pm

Mass

Thursday 22^nd

Feria

7.00pm

Stations of the Cross followed by Bible study

Friday 23^rd

St Polycarp

12.00noon

1.00pm

Stations of the Cross followed by Bible study

Lunchtime Serenade

Saturday 24^th

Feria

9.30am

Mass

NEXT SUNDAY

The Second Sunday of Lent

10.00am

PARISH MASS

TODAY

We welcome Mr Richard Lees, Director of the Goa Anglican Centre as our preacher.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

During Lent, we use this acclamation before the Gospel: Praise to you, O Christ, King of eternal glory.

THIS WEDNESDAY LUNCHTIME

Fr Dexter will not be in church as he is conducting a funeral at the crematorium. Please pray for the repose of the soul of Marjorie Goodison. We are grateful to Fr Simon Oakes for celebrating the Mass at 1.00pm. The rosary will not be said that day.

CYRILLE REGIS SERVICE

A Thanksgiving Service will be held on Sunday,

4 March at 4.00pm in the Cathedral for the life and legacy of Cyrille Regis, who played in the winning Coventry City FA Cup Final Team. All are welcome to this service to remember him.

CHRISM MASS

Bishop Jonathan will celebrate his Chrism Mass at Lichfield Cathedral on the Wednesday of Holy Week, 28 March, at 11.30am. Lifts can be arranged. Please speak to Fr Dexter if you would like to go.

LENT AT ST JOHN’S

The season Lent is traditionally marked by acts of prayer, fasting and alms-giving.

We will offer the opportunity to pray the Stations of the Cross and engage in a short Bible study each week on Thursdays at 7.00pm, beginning this week. For anyone who can’t make that time, we will repeat the session on Fridays at 12.00noon. There will be the opportunity on Friday lunchtimes to share in a simple Lenten lunch.

We will, once again, be collecting for the work of the Additional Curates Society, which seeks to encourage vocations to ordination and to support parishes in need of clergy. Please take a collecting box and a prayer card from the back of church.

The opportunity to make your confession will be available each Tuesday evening, and on Good Friday, or by appointment with Fr Dexter.

EASTER CARDS are now on sale in the church shop.

11th FEBRUARY – THE SUNDAY NEXT BEFORE LENT
TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Parish Mass

THIS WEEK

Monday 12^th

Feria

Tuesday 13^th

Feria

6.00pm

6.30pm

Confessions

Mass

Wednesday 14^th

Ash Wednesday

12.00noon

1.00pm

7.00pm

Rosary

Mass with Imposition of Ashes

Sung Mass with Imposition of Ashes

Thursday 15^th

Feria

Friday 16^th

Feria

1.00pm

Lunchtime Serenade

Saturday 17^th

Feria

9.30am

Mass

NEXT SUNDAY

The First Sunday of Lent

10.00am

PARISH MASS

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

ASH WEDNESDAY

This Wednesday is Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent. Mass with the imposition of ashes will be offered at 1.00pm and 7.00pm.

HOW YOU CAN OBTAIN £130 DONATION TO ST JOHN’S

To celebrate their 130^th anniversary, the Ecclesiastical Insurance Company is offering to donate £130 to this church for every new home insurance policy taken out.

Please check when your house policy expires and contact them in good time at:

www.ecclesiastical.com/Trust130 or on

0800 783 0130 and quote Trust 130.

This offer is open for all policies that commence on or before 31^st August 2018.

Any questions – please speak with David Fletcher.

LUNCHTIME SERENADE

Each Friday at 1.00pm, Adam Hibberd from Unlock the Music will give a short piano recital. There is no charge, but donations are invited for the restoration of the church’s grand piano.

LENT AT ST JOHN’S

The season Lent is traditionally marked by acts of prayer, fasting and alms-giving.

We will offer the opportunity to pray the Stations of the Cross and engage in a short Bible study each week on Thursdays at 7.00pm, beginning on 22 February. For anyone who can’t make that time, we will repeat the session on Fridays at 12.00noon, beginning on 23 February. There will be the opportunity on Friday lunchtimes to share in a simple Lenten lunch.

The opportunity to make your confession will be available each Tuesday evening, and on Good Friday, or by appointment with Fr Dexter.

4^th FEBRUARY – THE SECOND SUNDAY BEFORE LENT

TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Parish Mass

4.30pm Evening Prayer

THIS WEEK

Monday 5^th

St Agatha

Tuesday 6^th

Feria

6.30pm

Mass

Wednesday 7^th

Feria

1.00pm

Mass

Thursday 8^th

Feria

Friday 9^th

Feria

1.00pm

Lunchtime Serenade

Saturday 10^th

St Scholastica

9.30am

10.00am – 2.00pm

Mass

Church open for the St Valentine’s weekend

NEXT SUNDAY

The Sunday next before Lent

10.00am

11.15am – 1.00pm

PARISH MASS

Church open for the St Valentine’s weekend

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

THIS WEEK Fr Dexter will be on retreat from Monday to Friday. We are grateful to Fr Norman Stevens for celebrating the masses on Tuesday and Wednesday. The rosary will not be said this Wednesday.

HOW YOU CAN OBTAIN £130 DONATION TO ST JOHN’S

To celebrate their 130^th anniversary, the Ecclesiastical Insurance Company is offering to donate £130 to this church for every new home insurance policy taken out.

Please check when your house policy expires and contact them in good time at:

www.ecclesiastical.com/Trust130 or on

0800 783 0130 and quote Trust 130.

This offer is open for all policies that commence on or before 31^st August 2018.

Any questions – please speak with David Fletcher.

LUNCHTIME SERENADE

Each Friday at 1.00pm, Adam Hibberd from Unlock the Music will give a short piano recital. There is no charge, but donations are invited for the restoration of the church’s grand piano.

RECEIVING OF COMMUNION

In light of the recent outbreak of virulent strains of Flu, please be aware that parish practice around the receiving of the chalice is being reviewed. The practice of intincting (ie. dipping) the host in the chalice is an unhygienic practice and I would ask people to refrain from receiving the sacrament in this way. Please see the letter which is available at the back of church regarding this matter, and do speak to me if you wish to discuss this.

Fr Dexter.

ST VALENTINE’S WEEKEND

Next weekend, the weekend before St Valentine's Day, the Church will hold a "Valentine's weekend", during which St Johns will be open from 10am until 2pm on Saturday and 11.15am until 1pm on Sunday to see the relic in a rare showing in public. There will be music and poetry on the Saturday, and on both days there will be an opportunity to venerate and pray before the relic. is historic gem.

28^h JANUARY – THE PRESENTATION OF CHRIST IN THE TEMPLE (CANDLEMASS)

TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Procession and Parish Mass

THIS WEEK

Monday 29^th

Feria

Tuesday 30^th

Bl. Charles Stuart

6.00pm

6.30pm

Confessions

Mass

Wednesday 31^st

St John Bosco

12.00noon

1.00pm

Rosary

Mass

Thursday 1^st February

Feria

Friday 2^nd

Feria

1.00pm

Lunchtime Serenade

Saturday 3^rd

St Blaise

9.30am

Mass

NEXT SUNDAY

The Second Sunday before Lent

10.00am

4.30pm

PARISH MASS

Evening Prayer

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

TODAY we begin our service in the hall as we make our candle-lit procession from there into church.

We welcome Deacon Sarah Gillard-Faulkner as our preacher and deacon of the Mass

ST VALENTINE’S WEEKEND

On the weekend of 10^th and 11^th February, the weekend before St Valentine’s Day, we will hold a ‘Valentine’s weekend’, during which the church will be open longer hours, and we will have music and poetry in church, along with the opportunity to venerate and pray before our relic of St Valentine. A must for all couples!

LUNCHTIME SERENADE

Each Friday at 1.00pm, Adam Hibberd from Unlock the Music will give a short piano recital. There is no charge, but donations are invited for the restoration of the church’s grand piano

PALM CROSSES

Ash Wednesday falls this year on 14 February. Please return your palm crosses from last year in good time so that they can be burned to make the ash for the Masses that day, which will be celebrated at 1.00pm and 7.00pm.

RECEIVING OF COMMUNION

Fr Dexter.

WALSINGHAM PILGRIMAGE

If the start of the new year has got you thinking about the possibility of going on pilgrimage, remember that this year’s Coventry North Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham will be from Monday, 13th to Thursday, 16th August. Please speak to Fr Dexter to reserve a place. At this stage a £10 deposit is required.

21^st JANUARY – THE THIRD SUNDAY OF EPIPHANY

TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Parish Mass

Monday 22^nd

St Vincent

Tuesday 23^rd

Feria

6.00pm

6.30pm

Confessions

Mass

Wednesday 24^th

St Francis de Sales

12.00noon

1.00pm

Rosary

Mass

Thursday 25^th

The Conversion of St Paul

6.30pm

7.00pm

Mass

PCC meeting

Friday 26^th

St Timothy and St Titus

12.00noon

1.00pm

Service of Reflection

Lunchtime Serenade

Saturday 27^th

Our Lady on Saturday

9.30am

Mass

NEXT SUNDAY

The Presentation of Christ in the Temple (Candlemass)

10.00am

PROCESSION AND PARISH MASS

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

PCC MEETING

The PCC meets this week at 7.00pm on Thursday.

Mass will be offered beforehand at 6.30pm.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION

The next Service of Reflection takes place on Friday at 12noon, and is followed by a simple lunch. All are welcome to join us for this.

LUNCHTIME SERENADE

Each Friday at 1.00pm, Adam Hibberd from Unlock the Music will give a short piano recital. There is no charge, but donations are invited for the restoration of the church’s grand piano.

PALM CROSSES

RECEIVING OF COMMUNION

Fr Dexter.

WALSINGHAM PILGRIMAGE

14^th JANUARY – THE SECOND SUNDAY OF EPIPHANY

TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Parish Mass

THIS WEEK

Monday 15^th

Feria

7.30pm

Healing Service

Tuesday 16^th

Feria

6.00pm

6.30pm

Confessions

Mass

Wednesday 17^th

St Anthony

12.00noon

1.00pm

Rosary

Mass

Thursday 18^th

Feria

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity begins

Friday 19^th

St Wulstan

Saturday 20^th

St Sebastian

9.30am

Mass

NEXT SUNDAY

The Third Sunday of Epiphany

10.00am

PARISH MASS

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

HEALING SERVICE

The ministries of healing will be offered within a service here at St John’s TOMORROW at 7.30pm. Arranged by the local Cell of Our Lady of Walsingham , it is open to all who wish to attend.

WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity runs from 18 to 25 January each year.

This year, an ecumenical service will be held this Saturday, 20 January, at 1.00pm in the Chapel of Unity at the Cathedral. The preacher will be Bishop William Kenney, Roman Catholic Auxiliary Bishop of Birmingham. All are welcome.

VISITOR MINISTRY.
Mike reports that the final footfall figure for 2017 was 7662, a new record for the church.
This is a 5% increase on last year- a big thanks to all on the ministry who made this happen.

RECEIVING OF COMMUNION

Fr Dexter

DATES FOR THE YEAR

Last week the dates of the major days in the church calendar for the coming year were announced. Do make a note of these in your diary!

Ash Wednesday – 14 February

Maundy Thursday – 29 March

Good Friday – 30 March

Holy Saturday – 31 March

Easter Day – 1 April

Ascension Day – 10 May

Pentecost – 20 May

Corpus Christi – 31 May

St John the Baptist’s Day – 24 June

Advent Sunday – 2 December

7^th JANUARY – THE EPIPHANY

TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Parish Mass

12.00noon Family Fun and Food

4.30pm Evening Prayer

THIS WEEK

Monday 8^th

The Baptism of the Lord

6.30pm

Mass

Tuesday 9^th

Feria

6.00pm

6.30pm

Confessions

Mass

Wednesday 10^th

Feria

12.00noon

1.00pm

Rosary

Mass

Thursday 11^th

Feria

Friday 12^th

St Aelred

Saturday 13^th

St Hilary

9.30am

Mass

NEXT SUNDAY

The Second Sunday of Epiphany

10.00am

PARISH MASS

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

EPIPHANY CHALK

Today, Epiphany chalk will be blessed at Mass, and all are invited to take some home to use to bless their homes. A sheet with the prayers will be found at the back of church. Doing this is an ideal opportunity to pray together as a family at the beginning of the new year.

FAMILY FUN AND FOOD - TODAY

TODAY we host our ‘Family Fun and Food’ session between 12.00 and 2.30pm. There will be an opportunity for children to learn about a Bible story, take part in some crafts and have lots of fun. All are welcome to join us for this.

HEALING SERVICE

The ministries of healing will be offered within a service here at St John’s on Monday 15 January at 7.30pm. Arranged by the local Cell of Our Lady of Walsingham , it is open to all who wish to attend.

WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY

An ecumenical service for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity will be held on Saturday 20 January at 1.00pm in the Chapel of Unity at the Cathedral. The preacher will be Bishop William Kenney, Roman Catholic Auxiliary Bishop of Birmingham. All are welcome.

DATES FOR THE YEAR

Today, as we celebrate the Epiphany, is the traditional day for announcing the dates of the major days in the church calendar for the coming year. All of these will be observed here at St John’s, so do make a note of these in your diary now!

Ash Wednesday – 14 February

Maundy Thursday – 29 March

Good Friday – 30 March

Holy Saturday – 31 March

Easter Day – 1 April

Ascension Day – 10 May

Pentecost – 20 May

Corpus Christi – 31 May

St John the Baptist’s Day – 24 June

Advent Sunday – 2 December

31^st DECEMBER – FIRST SUNDAY OF CHRISTMAS / THE HOLY FAMILY

TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Parish Mass

THIS WEEK

Monday 1^st January

MARY, MOTHER OF GOD

12.00noon

Angelus and Mass

Tuesday 2^nd

St Basil and St Gregory

6.30pm

Mass

Wednesday 3^rd

Feria

12.00noon

1.00pm

Rosary

Mass

Thursday 4^th

Feria

Friday 5^th

Feria

Saturday 6^th

Feria

9.30am

Mass

NEXT SUNDAY

The Epiphany

10.00am

12.00noon

4.30pm

PARISH MASS

Family Fun and Food

Evening Prayer

On days when the church is open the angelus is said at noon

HEALING SERVICE

FAMILY FUN AND FOOD

St John’s is hosting a ‘Family Fun and Food’ session NEXT SUNDAY, 7 January, between 12.00 and 2.30pm. There will be an opportunity for children to learn about a Bible story, take part in some crafts and have lots of fun. We hope this will be the first of a regular programme. Invitations have been sent to families who we know, but all are welcome to join us for this.

WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY

COLLECTION FOR SHELTER

Our carol service collection was £156.94, which we are sending to Shelter, with a further £20 from the collection at the November Service of Reflection. Many thanks to all who contributed.

MASS ROTAS

New rota sheets are available today for all who assist at Mass. Do please take a copy if you read, lead intercessions, administer the chalice, or serve as sidesman. All the details you require are there.

24^th DECEMBER – FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT / CHRISTMAS EVE

TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Parish Mass

2.00pm Carols round the Crib

11.00pm Midnight Mass

THIS WEEK

Monday 25^th

CHRISTMAS DAY

10.00am

MASS WITH CAROLS

Tuesday 26^th

St Stephen

1.00pm

Mass

Wednesday 27^th

St John the Evangelist

1.00pm

Mass

Thursday 28^th

The Holy Innocents

1.00pm

Mass

Friday 29^th

St Thomas Becket

1.00pm

Mass

Saturday 30^th

In the Christmas Octave

9.30am

Mass

NEXT SUNDAY

First Sunday after Christmas/

Holy Family Sunday

10.00am

PARISH MASS

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Fr Dexter and Amy would like to wish all parishioners a happy, holy and joyful Christmas. We are very grateful for the welcome that we have received at St John’s, and look forward to all that we will do together in the coming year.

FAMILY FUN AND FOOD

St John’s is hosting a ‘Family Fun and Food’ session on Sunday 7 January between 12.00 and 2.30pm. There will be an opportunity for children to learn about a Bible story, take part in some crafts and have lots of fun. We hope this will be the first of a regular programme. Invitations have been sent to families who we know might like to come along, but all are welcome to join us for this event.

HEALING SERVICE

17^th DECEMBER – THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT / GAUDETE SUNDAY

TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Parish Mass

THIS WEEK

Monday 18^th

O Adonai

Tuesday 19^th

O Radix Jesse

6.00pm

6.30pm

Confessions

Mass

Wednesday 20^th

O Clavis David

12.00noon

1.00pm

Rosary

Mass

Thursday 21^st

O Oriens

Friday 22^nd

O Rex Gentium

Saturday 23^rd

O Emmanuel

9.30am

Mass

NEXT SUNDAY

Advent IV

Christmas Eve

10.00am

2.00pm

11.00pm

PARISH MASS

CAROLS ROUND THE CRIB

MIDNIGHT MASS

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

WELCOME TO MASS THIS MORNING. In this Advent season, we are preparing to meet the Lord when he comes: when he comes as the child of Bethlehem and when he comes again as our judge. But each Sunday we also prepare to meet him when he comes among us in the sacrament. We invite you to keep a few minutes of silent prayer before Mass so that we might meet him with prayerful and reverent hearts.

CHRISTMAS SERVICES.

Sunday 24 December – Advent IV/Christmas Eve

10.00am Parish Mass

2.00pm Carols Round the Crib

11.00pm Midnight Mass

Monday 25 December – Christmas Day

10.00am Mass with Carols

Leaflets with these details are now at the back of church – do take some to share with friends and neighbours.

CHRISTMAS WEEK SERVICES

Mass will be celebrated every day in Christmas Week, at 1.00pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, and 9.30am on Saturday. In those days of the Christmas season, after the busyness of Christmas Day itself, these are opportunities for more reflective celebrations of the Mass.

THANK YOU to everyone who was involved in the preparation for the Parish Christmas Dinner on Friday. A good time was had by all who attended.

CHURCH SHOP. In addition to the usual items available in the shop, we now have a range of Christmas cards, candles depicting St John’s, and Coventry calendars including a picture of our church. Do have a look at our range of goods.

THANK YOU to everyone who was involved in the preparation for the Parish Christmas Dinner on Friday. A good time was had by all who attended.

HEALING SERVICE

10^th DECEMBER – SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT

TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Parish Mass

THIS WEEK

Monday 11^th

Feria

Tuesday 12^th

Feria

6.00pm

6.30pm

Confessions

Mass

Wednesday 13^th

St Lucy

12.00noon

1.00pm

Rosary

Mass

Thursday 14^th

St John of the Cross

1.10pm

Bablake School Christmas Concert

Friday 15^th

Feria

Saturday 16^th

Feria

9.30am

Mass

NEXT SUNDAY

Advent III

10.00am

PARISH MASS

BABLAKE SCHOOL CHRISTMAS CONCERT. We will welcome Bablake School on Thursday, 14^th December, at 1.10pm for their Christmas Concert. All are welcome to join us for that special occasion.

CHRISTMAS SERVICES.

Sunday 24 December – Advent IV/Christmas Eve

10.00am Parish Mass

2.00pm Carols Round the Crib

11.00pm Midnight Mass

Monday 25 December – Christmas Day

10.00am Mass with Carols

Leaflets with these details are now at the back of church – do take some to share with friends and neighbours.

MARGARET COOPER RIP. The funeral of Margaret Cooper (our former Lay Reader) takes place tomorrow, 11th December. Although the funeral itself is a private occasion, we are invited to the memorial service at 11.30am at St Paul's, Stockingford.

THANK YOU everyone who was involved in the Christmas Fayre last week, which was an enjoyable and successful occasion.

FOODBANK. We have received a letter thanking us for our contributions to the Foodbank, which can be seen on the notice board at the back of church.

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

3^rd DECEMBER – ADVENT SUNDAY

TODAY’S SERVICES

10.00am Parish Mass

4.30pm Advent Carol Service THIS WEEK

Monday 4^th

Feria

Tuesday 5^th

Feria

6.00pm

6.30pm

Confessions

Mass

Wednesday 6^th

St Nicholas

12.00noon

1.00pm

Rosary

Mass

Thursday 7^th

St Ambrose

Friday 8^th

The Immaculate Conception of the BVM

Saturday 9^th

Feria

9.30am

Mass

NEXT SUNDAY

Advent II

10.00am

PARISH MASS

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

ADVENT CAROL SERVICE. We mark the beginning of this season of expectation with a reflective sequence of music and readings at 4.30pm TODAY. Do join us for this special service.

CHILDREN’S SOCIETY. Envelopes for donations are available at the back of the church. Please bring filled envelopes and your home collection box if you have one, NEXT Sunday 10th December when all money given in aid of the Children’s Society will be presented during the Mass.

MARGARET COOPER RIP. The funeral of Margaret Cooper (our former Lay Reader) is on Monday 11th December. Although the funeral itself is a private occasion, we are invited to the memorial service at 11.30am at St Paul's, Stockingford.

BABLAKE SCHOOL CHRISTMAS CONCERT. We will welcome Bablake School on Thursday 14^th December (not 7^th December as previously advertised) at 1.10pm for their Christmas Concert. All are welcome to join us for that special occasion.

CHRISTMAS SERVICES.

Sunday 24 December – Advent IV/Christmas Eve

10.00am Parish Mass

2.00pm Carols Round the Crib

11.00pm Midnight Mass

Monday 25 December – Christmas Day

10.00am Mass with Carols

Leaflets with these details are now at the back of church – do take some to share with friends and neighbours.

26^th NOVEMBER – CHRIST THE KING

TODAY’S SERVICES.

10.00 am. Parish Mass

Lesson Readers: Ann Tuesley and Noreen Lynes

Intercessor: Charles Coleman

Stewards: Noreen Lynes and Blanche McCartney

Hymns: New English Hymnal 345; 134; 352; 282; 443

SERVICES THIS WEEK

Monday. Feria. No service

Tuesday. Feria. 6.00pm Confessions. 6.30pm. Mass

Wednesday. Feria. 12noon Rosary. 1.00pm. Mass

Thursday. St Andrew. No service

Friday. Feria. No service

Saturday. Our Lady on Saturday. 9.15a.m. Mass. NB Change of time

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

NEXT SUNDAY: 10.00am Parish Mass

Lesson Readers: Leah Roberts and John Oliver

Intercessor: John Oliver and Margaret Oliver

Stewards: Michelle Thomas and Kay Smith

4.30pm Advent Carol Service

CHRISTMAS FAYRE. This event takes place THIS Saturday, 2 December, between 10am and 2pm. There are many stalls selling jams, cakes, preserves, bric -brac, luxury raffle, gifts to be won in our tombola, books, vinyl, greeting cards, baby clothes, Christmas presents, and artefacts made in Palestine. There will be entertainment with Zenith Harmony coming to sing, and the University of Warwick Brass society are sending members to play. And let us not forget Santa Claus who will be with two little helpers!

SATURDAY MORNING MASS. Because of the Christmas Fayre, Mass this Saturday will start at the earlier time of 9.15am.

OLD COINS & BANKNOTES. Please bring any old coins or banknotes to the Treasurer’s table at the Christmas Fayre where they can get turned into useful funds for the church. Not just old five pound notes or round pounds; coins & notes from any country in any condition are welcome. This exercise a few years ago was very successful.

ADVENT CAROL SERVICE. NEXT SUNDAY is Advent Sunday, and we will mark the beginning of that season of expectation with a reflective sequence of music and readings at 4.30pm that day. Do join us for this special service. If anyone would like to read at this service, please sign the list at the back of church and pick up a copy of the reading you have chosen to read.

COVENTRY CYRENIANS CHRISTMAS DAY EVENT. Once again, the Cyrenians will be arranging a Christmas dinner for homeless and vulnerable people, hosted at Methodist Central Hall. They are appealing for donations of chocolate bars, mince pies, clothing, toiletries and money towards this event. Further details can be found at the back of church.

CHILDREN’S SOCIETY. Envelopes for donations are available at the back of the church. Please bring filled envelopes, and your home collection box if you have one, on Sunday 10th December when all money given in aid of the Children’s Society will be presented during the Mass.

12^th NOVEMBER – REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

TODAY’S SERVICES.

10.00 am. Sung Requiem Mass and Act of Remembrance

Lesson Readers: David Fletcher and Idris Smith

Intercessor: Jo Shelton

Stewards: Joyce Butterfield and Jo Shelton

Hymns: New English Hymnal 354; 334; 378; 273; 119

4.30pm Stations of the Cross

SERVICES THIS WEEK

Monday. Feria. No service

Tuesday. Feria. 6.00pm Confessions. 6.30pm. Mass

Wednesday. Feria. 12noon Rosary. 1.00pm. Mass. 7.00pm Sung Mass and Confirmation

Thursday. St Margaret of Scotland. No service

Friday. St Hugh of Lincoln. No service

Saturday. Feria. 9.30 a.m. Mass.

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

NEXT SUNDAY: 10.00am Parish Mass

Lesson Readers: Charles Coleman and Nigel Makepeace

Intercessor: Jo Shelton

Stewards: Sheila Polanyk and Mike Polanyk

PEACE FESTIVAL. The Peace Festival continues until 14 November. During the festival, the church serves as a focus for those who wish to be still and experience or pray for peace, by visiting the peace garden, lighting a candle or exploring the stations of the cross. At Mass on Tuesday evening, all the prayers that have been left in church during the festival will be offered.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS. As part of the Peace Festival, we will walk and pray the Stations of the Cross TODAY at 4.30pm.

CONFIRMATION. Bishop Jonathan will be with us on Wednesday 15 November evening at 7.00pm to celebrate Mass and administer the sacrament of Confirmation. We will be joined by people from other Society parishes in the diocese. Please hold the confirmation candidates in your prayers.

PCC MEETING. The PCC meets on Thursday 23 November at 7.00pm.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION. The next Service of Reflection takes place on Friday 24 November at noon, and is followed by a simple lunch. All are welcome to join us for this gentle and prayerful service.

CHRISTMAS FAYRE. This event takes place on Saturday 2 December. If anyone can donate prizes for the raffle or tombola stalls, please put them in the box at the back of church. Offers of cakes for the cake stall are also welcome.

FOOD BANK. Tim from the Food Bank picked up 35.1 kg of food from us last week. He thanks us for our continued support and encouragement. At the moment, the Foodbank would particularly welcome donations of tinned fruit, tinned rice pudding, UHT milk and fruit juice.

5^th NOVEMBER – ALL SAINTS’ SUNDAY

TODAY’S SERVICES.

10.00 am. Sung Mass and Holy Baptism

Lesson Readers: Kay Smith and Peter Ruddy

Stewards: Ann Luckman and Ian Johnston

Hymns:

4.30pm Service of Remembrance

SERVICES THIS WEEK

Monday. Feria. No service

Tuesday. St Willibrord. 6.00pm Confessions. 6.30pm. Mass

Wednesday. All Saints of England. 12noon Rosary. 1.00pm. Mass

Thursday. Feria. No service

Friday. St Leo. No service

Saturday. St Martin / Armistice Day. 9.30 a.m. Mass. 11.00am Two-minutes’ silence and prayers for peace

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

NEXT SUNDAY: 10.00am Parish Requiem Mass

Lesson Readers: David Fletcher and Idris Smith

Intercessor: Jo Shelton

Stewards: Joyce Butterfield and Jo Shelton

4.30pm Stations of the Cross

CONGRATULATIONS to Mason Wright, being baptised today. Please hold him, his family and his godparents in your prayers.

SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE. This evening we will hold a Service of Remembrance at 4.30pm. People are invited to come and remember and pray for their departed loved ones. All are welcome to come and join us for this simple and prayerful service.

PEACE FESTIVAL. The Peace Festival is underway and runs until 14 November. We aim to be open as long as we can for the 16 days of the Festival – thanks to all who have volunteered to help keep the church open. During the festival, the church will be a focus for those who wish to be still and experience or pray for peace, by visiting the peace garden, lighting a candle or exploring the stations of the cross.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS. As part of the Peace Festival, we will walk and pray the Stations of the Cross NEXT Sunday at 4.30pm.

CONFIRMATION. Bishop Jonathan will be with us on Wednesday 15 November to celebrate Mass and administer the sacrament of Confirmation. The service takes place at 7.00pm, and we will be joined by people from other Society parishes in the diocese. Please hold the confirmation candidates in your prayers.

VISITORS. Mike reports that we had a good October, with 336 visitors, bringing our total this year to 6337, an 8% increase on 2016. Thanks to all our volunteers.

FOOD BANK. Tim from the Food Bank picked up 35.1 kg of food from us this week. He thanks us for our continued support and encouragement. At the moment, the Foodbank would particularly welcome donations of tinned fruit, tinned rice pudding, UHT milk and fruit juice.

29th OCTOBER – BIBLE SUNDAY

TODAY’S SERVICES.

10.00 am. Sung Mass

Lesson Readers: Mike Polanyk and Ian Johnston

Intercessor: Camelia Morgan

Stewards: Michelle Thomas and Kay Smith

Hymns: New English Hymnal 336; 407; 438; 272; 486

SERVICES THIS WEEK

Monday. Feria. No service

Tuesday. Feria. 6.00pm Confessions. 6.30pm. Mass

Wednesday. All Saints’ Day. 12noon Rosary. 1.00pm. Mass

Thursday. All Souls’ Day. 1.00pm Requiem Mass. 7.00pm Requiem Mass

Friday. Feria. No service

Saturday. St Charles Borromeo. 9.30 a.m. Mass

NEXT SUNDAY: 10.00am Parish Mass and

Holy Baptism

Lesson Readers: Kay Smith and Peter Ruddy

Stewards: Ann Luckman and Ian Johnston

4.30pm Service of Remembrance

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

ALL SOULS’ DAY. All Souls’ Day, when we pray for all the faithful departed, is this Thursday. Requiem Masses will be celebrated at 1.00pm and 7.00pm that day. If there is a departed loved one you would like us to remember in our prayers that day, please put their name on the list at the back of church.

SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE. In addition to the services on All Souls’ Day, there will be a Service of Remembrance next Sunday at 4.30pm, at which people will be invited to come and remember and pray for their departed loved ones.

HYMN BOOKS. As a parish, we are seeking ways to grow in our worshipping life. One of the ways in which we plan to do this is to vary the range of hymns that we sing on Sundays, and we are doing that today by re-introducing The New English Hymnal (the green book), though we will continue to use Hymns Old and New (the red book) on some Sundays. We hope that this will ensure that we are able to use the best of both traditional and modern hymnody.

PEACE FESTIVAL. The Peace Festival runs from tomorrow to 14 November. We aim to be open as long as we can for the 16 days of the Festival – thanks to all who have volunteered to help keep the church open. During the festival, the church will be a focus for those who wish to be still and experience or pray for peace, by visiting the peace garden, lighting a candle or exploring the stations of the cross.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS. As part of the Peace Festival, we will walk and pray the Stations of the Cross on Remembrance Sunday, 12 November, at 4.30pm.

22nd OCTOBER – NINETEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY
TODAY’S SERVICES.
10.00 am. Sung Mass
Lesson Readers: Camelia Morgan and Joy Tregartha
Intercessor: Ann Tuesley
Stewards: Noreen Lynes and Blanche McCartney
Hymns: Hymns Old and New 9; 644; 675; 37; 92

SERVICES THIS WEEK
Monday. Feria. No service
Tuesday. Feria. 6.00pm Confessions. 6.30pm. Mass
Wednesday. Feria. 12noon Rosary. 1.00pm. Mass
Thursday. Ss Chad and Cedd. No service
Friday. Feria. 12.00 noon Service of Reflection
Saturday. Ss Simon and Jude. 9.30 a.m. Mass

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.
NEXT SUNDAY: 10.00am Parish Mass
Lesson Readers: Mike Polanyk and Ian Johnston
Intercessor: Camelia Morgan
Stewards: Michelle Thomas and Kay Smith

SERVICE OF REFLECTION. The next Service of Reflection takes place this Friday at 12noon, followed by a jacket potato lunch. All are welcome to join us for this gentle and prayerful service.

ALL SOULS’ DAY. All Souls’ Day, when we pray for all the faithful departed, falls on Thursday, 2nd November. Requiem Masses will be celebrated at 1.00pm and 7.00pm that day. If there is a departed loved one you would like us to remember in our prayers that day, please put their name on the list at the back of church.
In addition to the services on All Souls’ Day, there will be a Service of Remembrance on Sunday 5th November at 4.30pm, at which people will be invited to come and remember and pray for their departed loved ones.

HYMN BOOKS. As a parish, we are seeking ways to grow in our worshipping life. One of the ways in which we plan to do this is to vary the range of hymns that we sing on Sundays, and we will do that by using The New English Hymnal (the green book) on some Sundays, whilst continuing to use Hymns Old and New (the red book) on other Sundays. We hope that this will ensure that we are able to use the best of both traditional and modern hymnody.

THE ROSARY. We pray the Rosary in church after the Angelus at mid-day on Wednesdays. All are welcome to join us for this devotion. If it is new to you, do come along and try it.

CONFESSIONS. Fr Dexter is available to hear confessions regularly, on Tuesday evenings from 6.00pm. He is also available at other times by appointment.

CONFIRMATION. Bishop Jonathan will be with us on Wednesday 15 November to celebrate Mass and administer the sacrament of Confirmation. The service takes place at 7.00pm, and we will be joined by people from other Society parishes in the diocese. Please hold the confirmation candidates in your prayers.

PEACE FESTIVAL. The Peace Festival runs from 30 October to 14 November. We aim to be open as long as we can for the 16 days of the Festival - there are rota sheets available at the back of the church - please spare a couple of hours to aid the Visitor Ministry in this important Festival. Please see Mike for more details.

CHRISTMAS FAYRE. This event takes place on Saturday 2 December. If anyone can donate prizes for the raffle or tombola stalls, please put them in the box at the back of church.
WE WELCOME ALL VISITORS TO OUR SERVICE TODAY
Please join us for a hot drink and chat in the Parish Room after the service.
For those who like to make a Gift Aided donation, envelopes can be found in the Mass book cover.
Thank you.

15^th OCTOBER – EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY

TODAY’S SERVICES.

10.00 am. Sung Mass
Lesson Readers: Ann Tuesley and Jo Shelton
Intercessor: Chas Coleman
Stewards: Sheila Polanyk and Mike Polanyk
Hymns: 550, 636, 205, 451 & 240

SERVICES THIS WEEK

Monday. Feria. No service
Tuesday. St Ignatius. 6.00pm Confessions. 6.30pm. Mass
Wednesday. St Luke. 12noon Rosary. 1.00pm. Mass
Thursday. Feria. No service
Friday. Feria. No service
Saturday. Our Lady on Saturday. 9.30 a.m. Mass

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

NEXT SUNDAY: 10.00am Parish Mass

Lesson Readers: Camelia Morgan and Joy Tregartha

Intercessor: Ann Tuesley

Stewards: Noreen Lynes and Blanche McCartney

ST LUKE’S PATRONAL FESTIVAL. We are invited to join St Luke’s, Holbrooks, as the parish celebrates its Patronal Festival THIS EVENING at 6.00pm. Bishop Jonathan will preside and preach.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION.The next Service of Reflection takes place on Friday 27^th October at 12noon, followed by a jacket potato lunch. All are welcome to join us for this gentle and prayerful service.

THE ROSARY. We pray the Rosary in church after the Angelus at mid-day on Wednesdays. All are welcome to join us for this devotion. If it is new to you, do come along and try it.

CONFESSIONS. Fr Dexter is available to hear confessions regularly, on Tuesday evenings from 6.00pm. He is also available at other times by appointment.

CONFIRMATION. If anyone would like to prepare for the sacrament of Confirmation, please speak to Fr Dexter.

WALSINGHAM PILGRIMAGE Next year’s Coventry North PILGRIMAGE to the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham will be from Monday, 13th to Thursday, 16th August 2018. Please speak to Fr Dexter to reserve a place. At this stage a £10 deposit is required.

PEACE FESTIVAL. The Peace Festival runs from 30 October to 14 November. We aim to be open as long as we can for the 16 days of the Festival - there are rota sheets available at the back of the church - please spare a couple of hours to aid the Visitor Ministry in this important Festival. Please see Mike for more details.

DISASTER APPEALS. The PCC has sent £250 to each of the appeals following Hurricane Irma and the floods in Bangladesh from the Sunday coffee restricted fund. Please hold all those affected by these natural disasters in your prayers, and those bringing assistance to them.

8^th OCTOBER – SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY

TODAY’S SERVICES.

10.00 am. Sung Mass

Lesson Readers: Noreen Lynes and Leah Roberts
Intercessor: Jo Shelton
Stewards: Joyce Butterfield and Jo Shelton

Hymns: 210, 361, 457, 590 & 518

SERVICES THIS WEEK

Monday. Blessed John Henry Newman. No service
Tuesday. St Paulinus. 6.00pm Confessions. 6.30pm. Mass
Wednesday. Feria. 12noon Rosary. 1.00pm. Mass
Thursday. St Wilfrid. No service
Friday. St Edward the Confessor. No service
Saturday. Our Lady on Saturday. 9.30 a.m. Mass

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

NEXT SUNDAY: 10.00am Parish Mass
Lesson Readers: Ann Tuesley and Jo Shelton
Intercessor: Chas Coleman
Stewards: Sheila Polanyk and Mike Polanyk

PRISONS WEEK. Today marks the beginning of Prisons Week, a week of prayer for all in prison, as well as those who are victims of crime, those who work in prisons and all involved in the criminal justice system. Please hold all these in your prayers this week, and remember prison chaplains, among them Deacon Sarah Gillard-Faulkner, Chaplain of HMP Onley.

THE ROSARY. October is a month traditionally associated with praying the Rosary, so it seems a good time to introduce the opportunity to share in this devotion together. We pray the Rosary in church after the Angelus at mid-day on Wednesdays. All are welcome to join us for this devotion. If it is new to you, do come along and try it.

CONFESSIONS. As mentioned last week, Fr Dexter will be available to hear confessions regularly, on Tuesday evenings from 6.00pm. He remains available at other times by appointment.

THANK YOU FROM THE FOODBANK. We have received the following message of thanks from the Foodbank for our harvest donations: “Just to let you know that the total amount of food donated last week and today came to 45.75kg Thanks also for the Harvest donations of fruit and veg - all of which was given out. Thanks again for your continued support and encouragement and also for the cash donations.”

INVITATION. We are invited to theInstitution of The Revd Gareth Irvine as Vicar of St Laurence Church, Foleshill, on Thursday 12 October at 7.30pm. Please hold him and the parish in your prayers.

CONFIRMATION. If anyone would like to prepare for the sacrament of Confirmation, please speak to Fr Dexter.

ST LUKE’S PATRONAL FESTIVAL. We are invited to join St Luke’s, Holbrooks, as the parish celebrates its Patronal Festival on Sunday 15 October at 6.00pm. Bishop Jonathan will preside and preach that evening.

1st OCTOBER – SIXTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY

TODAY’S SERVICES.

10.00 am. Sung Mass
Lesson Readers: Nigel Makepeace and John Oliver
Intercessor: Nigel Makepeace
Stewards: Ann Luckman and Ian Johnston
Hymns: 15, 146, 726, 141 & 172

4.30pm
Evening Prayer

SERVICES THIS WEEK
Monday. The Holy Guardian Angels. No service
Tuesday. Feria. 6.30pm. Mass
Wednesday. St. Francis. 12noon Rosary. 1.00pm. Mass
Thursday. Feria. No service
Friday. Feria. No service
Saturday. Our Lady of the Rosary. 9.30 a.m. Mass

On days when the church is open the Angelus is said at noon.

NEXT SUNDAY: 10.00am Parish Mass

Lesson Readers: Noreen Lynes and Leah Roberts

Intercessor: Jo Shelton

Stewards: Joyce Butterfield and Jo Shelton

THE ROSARY. October is a month traditionally associated with praying the Rosary, so it seems a good time to introduce the opportunity to share in this devotion together. We will pray the Rosary in church after the Angelus at mid-day on Wednesdays, beginning this week. All are welcome to join us for this devotion. If it is new to you, do come along and try it.

INVITATION. We are invited to the Institution of The Revd Gareth Irvine as Vicar of St Laurence Church, Foleshill, on Thursday 12 October at 7.30pm. Please hold him and the parish in your prayers.
CONFIRMATION. If anyone would like to prepare for the sacrament of Confirmation, please speak to Fr Dexter

ST LUKE’S PATRONAL FESTIVAL. We are invited to join St Luke’s, Holbrooks, as the parish celebrates its Patronal Festival on Sunday 15 October at 6.00pm. Bishop Jonathan will preside and preach that evening.

WALSINGHAM PILGRIMAGE Next year’s Coventry North PILGRIMAGE to the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham will be from Monday, 13th to Thursday, 16th August 2018. Please speak to Fr Dexter to reserve a place. At this stage a £10 deposit is required.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 17th. September, 2017

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS. Many, many thanks to all who helped welcome 1294 visitors to church during the heritage weekend. Many commented on the warmth of the welcome they received from us.

PCC MEETING. The PCC meets tomorrow at 7.00pm in St John’s Chapel.

INVITATION. We are invited to the Institution, Induction and Installation of The Reverend Canon Miles Anthony Baker as Rector of All Saints, Allesley at 7.30pm on Tuesday of this week. Please hold him and the parish in your prayers.

HARVEST THANKSGIVING. We will celebrate our harvest thanksgiving NEXT Sunday, 24 September. Once again, we are invited to offer contributions to the Foodbank as part of our thanksgiving. The Foodbank is particularly in need of coffee, sugar, rice, rice pudding, UHT milk, tinned fruit, long life juice, squash and toiletries at this time. Following Mass that day, there will be a bring-and-share lunch in the hall. Please sign the list at the back of church if you would like to take part in that.

ORTHODOX FESTIVAL Our friends from the Serbian Orthodox community will be holding a concert featuring three choirs here at St John’s on Saturday 30 September at 7.00pm. Tickets £10, available at the door. Further details are available at the back of church.

This picture was taken at the Street Pastors Commissioning Service last Friday, 8th Sept,held at St John's when 13 new Street Pastors were commissioned. Fr Dexter preached, and the service was also addressed by Chief Superintendent Sharon Goosen of the West Midlands Police in Coventry and Cllr Jim O'Boyle, a St Michael's ward Councillor on the City Council.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 10th. September, 2017

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS. Thank you to everyone who is helping to keep the church open to welcome visitors, and all who are helping with the hospitality in the hall.

SENT BACK TO COVENTRY. This Saturday, September 16, at 7.00 p.m.Charity Concert by Midland Baroque - Sent back to Coventry! The programme will feature music by Handel, Telemann, Purcell, John Blow, Heinrich Biber, Matthew Locke, and Coventry’s very own 18th century composer Capel Bond. Tickets, available at the door, are £10 (£6 concessions) and all proceeds will go to the Grand Piano Restoration Fund.

INVITATION. We are invited to the Institution, Induction and Installation of The Reverend Canon Miles Anthony Baker as Rector of All Saints, Allesley at 7.30pm on Tuesday 19 September. Please hold him and the parish in your prayers.

HARVEST THANKSGIVING. We will celebrate our harvest thanksgiving on Sunday 24 September. Once again, we are invited to offer contributions to the Foodbank as part of our thanksgiving. The Foodbank are particularly in need of coffee, sugar, rice, rice pudding, UHT milk, tinned fruit, long life juice, squash and toiletries at this time. Following Mass that day, there will be a bring-and-share lunch in the hall. Please sign the list at the back of church if you would like to take part in that.

VISITOR MINISTRY. Mike reports an amazing 574 visitors in August, the largest ever for a Spring or Summer month! Our cumulative year figure is 4224, some 10% increase on last year’s record figure.

Many thanks to the volunteers who kept the doors open during some very bizarre weather last month!

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 3th. September, 2017

TODAY we welcome Fr Norman Stevens as our celebrant and preacher, and are grateful to him for being with us whilst Fr Dexter and Amy take a short break.Fr Dexter will be back on duty on Tuesday.

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS. These take place from Thursday to Sunday this week, and we look forward to welcoming many visitors to St John’s. Thank you to everyone who has volunteered to help keep the church open and welcome people.

WALSINGHAM CELL The cell of Our Lady of Walsingham will meet this Friday at St Luke’s, Holbrooks, at 7.30pm, to celebrate the Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary. All are welcome to attend.

STREET PASTORS On Friday evening at 6.00pm, we host the commissioning service for new Street Pastors. Please keep them in your prayers as they continue their service on the streets of our city at night.

CONCERT FOR GRAND PIANO RESTORATION FUND. On Saturday 9 September at 7 pm our friends from Unlock the Music will be putting on another concert presenting The Thrup'nny Bits(folk) and Harim Oh (opera singer) in aid of the Grand Piano Fund. Please share the leaflets at the back of church with friends.

SENT BACK TO COVENTRY. Saturday, September 16, 2017 at 7.00 p.m. Charity Concert by Midland Baroque - Sent back to Coventry! The programme will feature music by Handel, Telemann, Purcell, John Blow, Heinrich Biber, Matthew Locke, and Coventry’s very own 18th century composer Capel Bond. Tickets, available at the door, are £10 (£6 concessions) and all proceeds will go to the Grand Piano Restoration Fund.

ORTHODOX FESTIVAL Our friends from the Serbian Orthodox community will be holding a concert featuring three choirs here at St John’s on Saturday 30 September at 7.00pm. Further details are available at the back of church.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 27th. August, 2017

HOLY BAPTISM Today we celebrate the baptism of LeBron Obi at 11.30am. Please stay after Mass to support LeBron and his family if you are able to do so.

WEEKDAY SERVICES. Weekday Masses will be re-introduced on Tuesday evenings at 6.30pm and Wednesday lunchtimes at 1.00pm, from this week.

SCOTT BURT PIANO TRIO CONCERT. The Scott Burt Piano Trio will be giving a lunchtime concert this Friday 1^st September at 1pm. This is free concert with donations towards the Benslow Hills Instrument Loan Scheme.

EBBSFLEET LAY CONGRESS 2017. This will be held in Coventry Cathedral next Saturday, 2^nd September, from 10.00 a.m. More details are on the notice board.

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS. Anyone interested in volunteering to help out during the Heritage Days Weekend between September 7 -10 will find sheets at the back of the Church for the four days. See Mike for more details.

ORTHODOX FESTIVAL Our friends from the Serbian Orthodox community will be holding a concert featuring three choirs on Friday 30 September at 7.00pm. Further details are available at the back of church.

WALSINGHAM PILGRIMAGE Booking is now open for next year’s pilgrimage to Walsingham, which will take place between 13 and 16 August. Please speak to Fr Dexter if you would like to book a place.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 20th. August, 2017

SERVICE OF REFLECTION. The next Service of Reflection will be this Friday, 25th August, at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch. All are welcome.

SCOTT BURT PIANO TRIO CONCERT. The Scott Burt Piano Trio will be giving a lunchtime concert on Friday 1^st September at 1pm. For those who have been to the Bablake School concerts in St John’s, Cathy Scott Burt will be familiar as the conductor, Dr Nicholas Scott Burt as their organist and Harry as their cellist son. This is free concert with donations towards the Benslow Hills Instrument Loan Scheme.

EBBSFLEET LAY CONGRESS 2017. This will be held in Coventry Cathedral on Saturday 2^nd September from 10.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. More details are on the notice board. Please sign the sheet if you will be attending.

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS. Anyone interested in volunteering to help out during the Heritage Days Weekend between September 7 -10 will find signing in rota sheets at the back of the Church for the four days, whether it be in the Church, the Hall, and the special events. See Mike for more details.

INVITATION. We are invited to the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of Ss Mary and John, Camp Hill, on Saturday 9 September at midday.

WEEKDAY SERVICES. Weekday Masses will be re-introduced on Tuesday evenings at 6.30pm and Wednesday lunchtimes at 1.00pm. We will begin these new services from Tuesday 29 August, which is the day on which the Church commemorates the Beheading of John the Baptist, our Patron.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 13th. August, 2017

VISITORS . Mike reports that we had a record July footfall of 897, that sees a 8% year increase on 2016. Thanks to all our volunteers.

THE ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY .We are invited to the Vigil of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Monday 14 August at 7.30pm at The Abbey Church in Nuneaton. Fr Dexter will be preaching.

PILGRIMAGE TO THE SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF WALSINGHAM . We wish those going to the Shrine of Our Lady at Walsingham this coming week a happy and blessed pilgrimage.

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS . The church will be open for all four of the Heritage Open Days from Sept 7 - 10, and we need volunteers to welcome visitors. If you can give us an hour or two of your time, please speak to Mike. Bablake School 6^th form pupils will be performing at 1pm on the Friday.

CONCERT FOR GRAND PIANO RESTORATION FUND . On Saturday 9 September at 7 pm our friends from Unlock the Music will be putting on another concert presenting The Thrup'nny Bits(folk) and Harim Oh (opera singer) in aid of the Grand Piano Fund.

SCOTT BURT PIANO TRIO CONCERT . The Scott Burt Piano Trio will be giving a lunchtime concert on Friday 1^st September at 1pm. For those who have been to the Bablake School concerts in St John’s, Cathy Scott Burt will be familiar as the conductor, Dr Nicholas Scott Burt as their organist and Harry as their cellist son. This is free concert with donations towards the Benslow Hills Instrument Loan Scheme.

SENT BACK TO COVENTRY . Saturday, September 16, 2017 at 7.00 p.m. Charity Concert by Midland Baroque - Sent back to Coventry! The programme will feature music by Handel, Telemann, Purcell, John Blow, Heinrich Biber, Matthew Locke, and Coventry’s very own 18th century composer Capel Bond. Tickets, available at the door, are £10 (£6 concessions) and all proceeds will go to the Grand Piano Restoration Fund.

INVITATION . We are invited to the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of Ss Mary and John, Camp Hill, on Saturday 9 September at midday.

EBBSFLEET LAY CONGRESS 2017 . This will be held in Coventry Cathedral on Saturday 2^nd September from 10.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. More details are on the notice board. Please sign the sheet if you will be attending.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be on Friday 25th August at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 31st. July, 2017

WE WELCOME Fr Dexter and Amy on their first Sunday here at St John’s. We wish them every happiness in their new home and as part of the family of St John’s.

RECTORY TELEPHONE NUMBER . The Rectory telephone number has changed to 024 7671 1687.

FR DEXTER’S INSTITUTION . A huge thank you to everyone who prepared, took part in or restored order following Fr Dexter’s institution service or the refreshments after.

PRAYER CIRCLE . The updated prayer circle is available at the back of church.

CONGRATULATIONS to Gemma, Dean and Kial on the birth of new baby Mason last week.

GRAND PIANO RESTORATION FUND . Our friend, Martin Griffiths, from Unlock the Music has been appealing for donations from different charities towards our Grand Piano Restoration Appeal. On Friday he received a letter from Allchurches Trust Limited saying that they have awarded us £1250. Our thanks to Martin and our friends from Unlock the Music. On Saturday 9 September at 7 pmthey will be putting on another concert presenting The Thrup'nny Bits(folk) and Harim Oh (opera singer) in aid of the Grand Piano Fund.

SAVE THE DATE . Saturday, September 16, 2017 at 7.00 p.m. Charity Concert by Midland Baroque - Sent back to Coventry! The programme will feature music by Handel, Telemann, Purcell, John Blow, Heinrich Biber, Matthew Locke, and Coventry’s very own 18th century composer Capel Bond. Tickets, available at the door, are £10 (£6 concessions) and all proceeds will go to the Grand Piano Restoration Fund.

TWO CELEBRATION INVITATIONS . The first is the celebration of the Vigil of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, on Monday 14 August at 7.30pm at The Abbey Church in Nuneaton. Fr Dexter will be preaching. The second is the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of Ss Mary and John, Camp Hill, on Saturday 9 September at midday. We are all invited to join in both of these celebrations.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be on Friday, 25^thAugust at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch.

EBBSFLEET LAY CONGRESS 2017 . This will be held in Coventry Cathedral on Saturday 2^nd September from 10.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Further details are on the notice board. This event is free but please sign the sheet at the back of church if you will be attending

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 16th. July, 2017

WE WELCOME back Canon John Randall as our celebrant and preacher today. This is Fr John’s last service with us before Fr Dexter’s institution. We thank him for his continuing ministry to us through the interregnum.

PRAYER CIRCLE . It is time to update the Prayer Circle list. Please give your updates to Jo Shelton.

FR DEXTER’S INSTITUTION . If you have not received an invitation please speak to Ann T or Ian.

SAVE THE DATE . Saturday, September 16, 2017 at 7.00 p.m. Charity Concert by Midland Baroque - Sent back to Coventry! The programme will feature music by Handel, Telemann, Purcell, John Blow, Heinrich Biber, Matthew Locke, and Coventry’s very own 18th century composer Capel Bond. Tickets, available at the door, are £10 (£6 concessions) and all proceeds will go to the grand piano restoration fund.

TWO CELEBRATION INVITATIONS . The first is the celebration of the Vigil of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, on Monday 14 August at 7.30pm at The Abbey Church in Nuneaton. Fr Dexter will be preaching. The second is the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of Ss Mary and John, Camp Hill, on Saturday 9 September at midday. We are all invited to join in both of these celebrations.

VISITOR MINISTRY . Despite the church being closed several times during May and June due to the unavailability of volunteers, we have beaten our half year record of last year in getting 2753 visitors by the end of last month. It is a splendid achievement and a big thank you to all of our welcome team.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be this coming Friday, 28^thJuly at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch.

EBBSFLEET LAY CONGRESS 2017 . This will be held in Coventry Cathedral on Saturday 2^nd September from 10.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Further details are on the notice board. This event is free but please sign the sheet at the back of church if you will be attending.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 16th. July, 2017

WE WELCOME back Fr Norman Stevens as our celebrant and preacher today. This is Fr Norman’s last service with us before Fr Dexter’s institution. We thank him for his continuing ministry to us through the interregnum.

PAUL TILLEY – RIP . Canon David Tilley emailed to say that his son Paul died on Friday in Myton Hospice and to ask us to pray for Paul’s eternal rest. We pray too for Fr David, Penny and Ryan.

PRAYER CIRCLE . It is time to update the Prayer Circle list. Please give your updates to Jo Shelton.

FR DEXTER’S INSTITUTION . If you have not received an invitation please speak to Ann T or Ian.

SUMMER FAYRE . A huge thank you to all who supported the Summer Fayre in any way, thus contributing to its success. The net cash takings were £259.45 plus £83.05 for refreshments.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be Friday 28^thJuly at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 2nd. July, 2017

WE WELCOME back Canon David Tilley as our celebrant and preacher today. This is Fr David’s last service with us before Fr Dexter’s institution. We thank him for his continuing ministry to us through the interregnum.

HALL WINDOWS . A huge thank you to our friend John Matty who has spent 3 sessions cleaning and polishing our hall windows.

SSAFA – THE BIG BREW UP . Michael reports that, as a result of the efforts at St John’s, he has sent £168.50 to SSAFA and wishes to thank both Anns, little David and all who kindly helped at or supported the 2 events.

NOT THE LENT GROUP . This group is meeting on Monday 3^rd July at 7.30 p.m. at Jo and Ann’s. Rev Dr Peter Whale will be speaking about truth in the Bible. Others welcome, but please tell Jo if you want to come.

PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN SERVICE. We are invited to the Chapel of Unity, Coventry Cathedral on Monday 3^rd July from 4-5p.m. to hear about and pray for Carriers of Hope. More information from John Lloyd, 02476 413004, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

SUMMER FAYRE - NEXT SATURDAY. There will be various stalls including jams, cakes, gifts, books, vinyl, greeting cards and artefacts made in Palestine as well as entertainment, photographic and historic exhibitions, tours, children’s way, walks in the grounds and a viewing of the church's Green Man door. Refreshments will be available from 10am until 2pm in the hall. Speak to Mike and Sheila if you can help on the day or if you can provide cake, jam or other items to sell.

FR DEXTER’S INSTITUTION . Invitations for Wednesday 26^th July at 7pm have now been issued and replies are coming in. If you have not received your invitation please speak to Ann T or Ian. As there will also be other guests, seating will need to be allocated to different groups. In order that we know how many seats are needed for St John’s members and to help with the catering numbers, please RSVP to Margaret O.

MIDSUMMER FESTIVAL . Thank you to UMCM and all who helped at the Midsummer Festival.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be Friday 28^thJuly at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 25th. June, 2017

WE WELCOME back Canon John Randall as our celebrant and preacher today.

MIDSUMMER FESTIVAL . Thank you to all who helped at the Midsummer Festival and to our friends from Unlock the Music for organising the programme and performing.

SUMMER FAYRE . This will be on Saturday 8^th July. There will be various stalls including jams, cakes, gifts, books, vinyl, greeting cards and artefacts made in Palestine as well as entertainment, photographic and historic exhibitions, tours, children’s way, walks in the grounds and a viewing of the church's Green Man door. Refreshments will be available from 10am until 2pm in the hall. Speak to Mike and Sheila if you can help on the day or if you can provide cake, jam or other items to sell.

FR DEXTER’S INSTITUTION . This will be on the evening of Wednesday 26^th July at 7pm. Everyone on our electoral role and regular congregation members will be invited, but there will also be other guests. Therefore seating will need to be allocated to different groups of guests. In order that we know how many seats are needed for St John’s members and to help with the catering numbers, please RSVP to Margaret Oliver when you receive your invitation.

EBBSFLEET LAY CONGRESS 2017 . Bishop Jonathan has sent a letter inviting us to the Ebbsfleet Lay Congress – We are all missionary disciples – to be held in Coventry Cathedral on Saturday 2^nd September from 10.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The main speakers will be Bishop Phillip North and Fr Damien Feeney. Bishop Jonathan will celebrate the Mass. This event is free but please sign the sheet at the back of church if you will be attending.

CBS NATIONAL FESTIVAL . Bishop Jupp and Fr Darren Smith thanked everyone who supported this day in any way.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be Friday 30^th June at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch. Donations to SSAFA (THE ARMED FORCES CHARITY). Michael and Maureen have collected over £100 so far – thank you for supporting them in this effort.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 18th. June, 2017

WE WELCOME back Canon John Eardley as our celebrant and preacher today.

CBS NATIONAL FESTIVAL . Bishop Jupp and Fr Darren Smith thanked everyone who supported this day in any way.

MIDSUMMER FESTIVAL . On Saturday 24^th we are holding a Midsummer Festival jointly with our friends from Unlock the Music . The café will be open all day with pop up performances there and in church and there will be a concert in the evening. Tickets for the evening concert are now on sale in our shop £8. Proceeds will be shared between our grand piano appeal and the Rotary Club appeal for books for a school in Lokiliri, South Sudan.

SUMMER FAYRE . This will be on Saturday 8^th July. Speak to Mike and Sheila if you can help on the day or if you can provide cake or jams to sell.

NATURAL CHURCH DEVELOPMENT . St John’s has been offered free places at an event to hear Christoph Schalk, the International Director of Natural Church Development . Christoph will be speaking on ‘Empowering People’ at St Mary’s, Leamington Spa, at 7.30 pm on 12th July. £ of us are attending. Please speak to Ann Tuesley if you also wish to attend.

EBBSFLEET LAY CONGRESS 2017 . Bishop Jonathan has sent a letter inviting us to the Ebbsfleet Lay Conference – We are all missionary disciples – to be held in Coventry Cathedral on Saturday 2^nd September from 10.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The main speakers will be Bishop Phillip North and Fr Damien Feeney. Bishop Jonathan will celebrate the Mass. This event is free but please sign the sheet at the back of church if you will be attending.

MYTON HOSPICE - SSAFA (THE ARMED FORCES CHARITY). As a result of the collection at the last Service of Reflection £41.55 was sent to Myton Hospice. Michael and Maureen have raised over £100 so far for SSAFA (THE ARMED FORCES CHARITY).Thank you toall who have donated to either charity.

FR DEXTER’S INSTITUTION . This will be on the evening of Wednesday 26^th July at 7pm. Please write the date in your diary.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be Friday 30^th June at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch. Donations to SSAFA (THE ARMED FORCES CHARITY).

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 11th. June, 2017

WE WELCOME back Canon David Tilley as our celebrant and preacher today.

FR DEXTER’S INSTITUTION . This will be on the evening of Wednesday 26^th July at 7pm. Please write the date in your diary.

NOT THE LENT HOUSE GROUP . is meeting at Jo and Ann’s on Monday 12^th June at 7.30 p.m. for a Taize service. If anyone else would like to join us please speak to Jo.

CORPUS CHRISTI . Fr Simon has invited us to join the congregation at St Luke's on Corpus Christi, Thursday, 15th June at 7.00 p.m. There will be wine and strawberries afterwards, so for catering numbers please sign the sheet at the back of church if you intend to go.

CBS NATIONAL FESTIVAL . St John’s is hostingthis event on Saturday 17^th June. There will be a Solemn Con-celebrated Mass at 12 noon and Exposition, Procession of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction at 3p.m. to which we are invited.

MIDSUMMER FESTIVAL . On Saturday 24^th we are holding a Midsummer Festival jointly with our friends from Unlock the Music . The café will be open all day with pop up performances there and in church and there will be a concert in the evening. Proceeds will be shared between our grand piano appeal and the Rotary Club appeal for books for a school in South Sudan. More details to follow.

SUMMER FAYRE . This will be on Saturday 8^th July.

MYTON HOSPICE . As a result of the collection at the last Service of Reflection £41.55 was sent to Myton Hospice. Thank you to all who donated.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be Friday 30^th June at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch. Donations to SSAFA (THE ARMED FORCES CHARITY).

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 28th. May, 2017

WE WELCOME back Canon David Tilley as our celebrant and preacher today.

LENT BOXES FOR ADDITIONAL CURATES SOCIETY .ACS Lent boxes totalled £ 82.32.

FR DEXTER’S INSTITUTION . This will be on the evening of Wednesday 26^th July at 7pm. Please write the date in your diary.

RISE COVENTRY, PENTECOST CELEBRATION - 4 June . On Pentecost afternoon, Sunday 4th June 2017, everyone is invited to join together in the ruins of Coventry Cathedral for a festival of Prayer & Worship called Rise Coventry. This free event will start at 2pm and will include a festival of events including a bring and share picnic; live music by local Christian artists; interactive prayer stations; bouncy castles and more! At 4pm there will be an informal service led by the Bishop of Coventry including baptisms and confirmations.

SSAFA (THE ARMED FORCES CHARITY) BIG BREW . We are holding a Big Brew on Saturday 10^th June

10 a.m. – 12 noon. Speak to Michael Smith for more details about this charity.

MIDSUMMER FESTIVAL . On Saturday 24^th we are holding a Midsummer Festival jointly with our friends from Unlock the Music . The café will be open all day with pop up performances there and in church and there will be a concert in the evening. Proceeds will be shared between our grand piano appeal and the Rotary Club appeal for books for a school in South Sudan. More details to follow.

SUMMER FAYRE . This will be on Saturday 8^th July.

FOOD BANK . We have received thanks from Tim from the Foodbank for another full bin of food.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be next Friday 30^th at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 21st. May, 2017

WE WELCOME back Fr Norman Stevens as our celebrant and preacher today.

ASCENSION DAY – 25^th MAY . We have invited Fr Brian to celebrate a said Mass with hymns on Ascension Day morning at 10 a.m. We have received this invitation from Fr Tom Wintle:

‘The Society in the Diocese of Coventry have arranged a Mass of the Feast of the Ascension on Thursday 25th May at St Luke, Holbrooks, to mark the beginning of the international period of prayer 'Thy Kingdom Come'. We would be thrilled if the good people of St John the Baptist would join the other Society Parishes to celebrate this holy day and to mark this important event. Please do come along and let me know how many might be able to join us. Fizz and nibbles will follow on from the Mass!!’ If you wish to attend, please sign the sheet at the back of church. We usually attend the service at the Cathedral on Ascension Day evening. Ascension Day this year is also the 55th anniversary of the consecration of the Cathedral, and there will be an ecumenical non Eucharistic service at 7.30pm with His Grace, Archbishop Bernard Longley of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Birmingham.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be next Friday, 26th May at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch. Donations will be for Myton Hospice.

FOOD BANK . We have received thanks from Tim from the Foodbank for another full bin of food.

VISITOR MINISTRY. Mike reports that the end of April cumulative figure of 1740 sees a 6% increase on the 2016 record year. This is mainly due to us keeping the church open for longer over Holy Week. A big thanks to all the volunteers involved in this vital ministry. However, unless there are any key holder volunteers, during Ian’s absence the church will be closed on Monday and Thursday mornings.

CHURCH WARDENS . Ian Johnston and Ann Tuesley have now been sworn in as Church Wardens for the coming year. Our thanks go to Ann Luckman for the seven and a half years of sterling service in this role. She has handed the keys over to Ian, but has agreed to be a deputy warden while Ian is away on pilgrimage on The Camino Portugues or the Portuguese Way from Lisbon to Santiago de Compostella.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 14th. May, 2017

WE WELCOME back Canon John Randall as our celebrant and preacher today.

ASCENSION DAY – 25^th MAY . We have invited Fr Brian to celebrate a said Mass with hymns on Ascension Day morning at 10 a.m. We have received this invitation from Fr Tom Wintle:

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be on Friday 26th May at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 30th. April, 2017

WE WELCOME back Canon John Eardley as our celebrant and preacher today.

FOOD BANK . If anyone is thinking of dropping items in the foodbank in the next couple of weeks - these are the items that Tim has told Sheila they are short of - tinned fruit and tinned rice pudding.... long life juice and tinned tomatoes....As ever Tim has sent on his thanks for our church's very generous support.

PARISH LUNCH - LAST CHANCE . Today is the last chance to sign up for the lunch at Town Crier, and choose your meal. Please sign the sheet at the back of church if you wish to come and choose your dishes. Any problems see Sheila.

REQUEST FOR JARS . The request goes out again for small to medium glass jars for jams etc for Summer Open Day in July. Please pass these on to Sheila.....many thanks

BABLAKE CONCERT. The next Bablake concert is at 1.10 p.m. on Friday 5^th May. Cathy Scott-Burt writes “The senior string quartet from Bablake School will play a selection of classical favourites, including Mozart Divertimento in D major and the famous Nocturne from Borodin's second string quartet as well as some lighter music. The quartet have been playing together for a year and are all music scholars at Bablake; they are very much looking forward to sharing this lovely selection of quartet music”

ST. GEORGE’S DAY . Thank you to all who helped at our St George’s Day Open Event.

PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN SERVICE . Monday 8th May 4pm-5pm in the Chapel of Unity. We will hear about, and pray for, the Street Pastors who patrol the city centre every Friday and Saturday night between 10pm and 3am. More information: John Lloyd (Co-Chair, Chapel of Unity Joint Council)

02476 413004 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

SATURDAY MORNING MASS . Fr Brian Regan will be celebrating Mass next Saturday at 9.30 a.m.

NO EVENING PRAYER . There will be no service of Evening Prayer next Sunday.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be on Friday 26th May at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 16th. April, 2017

WE WELCOME back Fr Darren Smith, as our celebrant and preacher today and thank him for his ministry to us throughout Holy Week and Easter.

A HUGE THANK YOU to all who helped prepare our church for the Holy Week and Easter services and to those who contributed in various ways to the worship.

MESSAGE FROM F^R DEXTER BRACEY . Last week it ws announced that our new Rector is to be Fr Dexter Bracey, currently serving in Swindon New Town. Fr Dexter has sent this message - “I am very pleased to have been appointed as your new Rector, and am much looking forward to joining you in Coventry during the summer. There is, of course, a big job to do in sharing the good news of Our Lord and his saving death and resurrection which we will celebrate during this Holy Week, and an urgency about sharing it with younger generations. But I hope and pray that we, as priest and people together, can both celebrate and proclaim that good news in the parish of St John the Baptist. Amy and I are looking forward to our move, and getting to know you all. Please pray for us as we prepare for that move, as we pray for you as the parish prepares for this next chapter in its long and exciting history. With all good wishes for a blessed Holy Week and Easter, Fr Dexter.” A copy of this message with a photograph can be seen on the notice board.

FLOWER CROSS . The flower cross in the sanctuary is in memory of our dear brother, Trevor Nicholas, RIP.

DIOCESAN PRAYER DIARY 18^th APRIL. St John’s is featured in the Diocesan Prayer Diary on Tuesday. The Cathedral will be praying for us and for Fr Dexter and Amy. Some of us are going to Evening Prayer at 5.15p.m.

ST GEORGES DAY. The church will be open from 11.30 a.m. until 4 p.m. next Sunday, St George’s Day. If you are interested in helping out in church for a couple of hours,please see Mike.Refreshments will be served in the hall.

PARISH LUNCH . The Social Committee is proposing a parish lunch at the Town Crier at 12.30pm Friday 19^th May. James from the pub can cater for 20 people. Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Please sign the sheet at the back of church if you wish to come.

LENT BOXES . Please return all Additional Curates Society Lenten boxes as soon as possible.

HOUSE MOVE . Our warm wishes go to David Campbell who moved house during Holy Week.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be on Friday 28th April at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch.

Sunday April 23, 11.30am - 4pm.

St George's Day Open Day.

Up to the right of the East Window - St George - also a closer in view below

The Dragon is not quite so clear.

Come and see the unique 14th century sculptures either side of the great East Window of St George and his dragon at St John the Baptist Church, Fleet Street, Coventry.
It dates from the time in the late 14th century when the monks of the great churches in Coventry were beginning to suffer being in the pilgrim shade when compared to those visiting Canterbury, Lincoln and Lichfield.
Church warden Ann Tuesley takes up the story.
"So they came up with a great piece of spin, that St George, whose reputation of being England's patron saint was flourishing due to his winning appearances via banners and shields on French battlefields,was born in Coventry!
Caludon Castle in fact!
A load of hokum, but chapels and statues were soon blossoming in the city!
Very few have survived, but those two in St Johns survived and in a very competant state.
These can be see next Sunday as well the many other grotesques that are such a vibrant visual part of this beautiful church.
Throughout the day sample the superb acoustics of this medieval gem with organ music and recorder recitals.
Meet Queen Isabella, the founder of the church, and be amazed by the stories of St Johns origins.
There will be exhibitions, guided tours, and refreshments all day.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 2nd. April, 2017

WE WELCOME back Canon David Tilley as our celebrant and preacher today.

TREVOR NICHOLAS RIP . Trevor’s funeral will be here at St John’s at 11 a.m. on Tuesday 11^th April, followed by the committal at the crematorium and a reception back at St John’s. Our thoughts, prayers are with John.

HOT CROSS BUNS . Donations of hot cross buns would be welcome for Good Friday. Thank you

EASTER LILIES . Please give donations for Easter lilies in memory of loved ones to Ann Luckman. Thank you.

FOODBANK EASTER COLLECTION . Tim from Foodbank will be emptying the foodbank bin early on Tuesday 11 April for Easter; so next Sunday is the last chance to donate chocolate and other seasonal related goods.

PARISH LUNCH . The Social Committee is proposing a parish lunch at the Town Crier at 12.30pm Friday May 19. James from the pub needs to know an idea of numbers before end of the month - please can you inform Sheila or Ann L if you wish to attend.

VISITOR FIGURES. Mike reports a record first quarter, 1109, some 9% increase on last year. This is chiefly due to extending our hours into the afternoon - a policy that we will continue, volunteers permitting. If you are interested in helping out for a couple of hours on Palm Sunday, Easter Monday and St Georges Day, please see Mike.

LENT & HOLY WEEK 17

Lent Boxes . Boxes for Lenten donations to Additional Curates Society are available at the back of church. Fr Darren Smith (General Secretary of ACS) will be leading our Worship in Holy Week from Palm Sunday through to Easter Sunday with the exception of Maundy Thursday, when Bishop Jonathan will be presiding.

Evening Lent Groups – our evening Lent group, continues on Monday 3^rd April at 7.30pm at Jo and Ann’s.

Palm Sunday - 9^th April .Our Mass starts at 9.45a.m. at the precinct fountain with the blessing of palms and procession to church (which will stay open for those who prefer not to process). Celebrant: Fr Darren Smith.

The Cross of Christ – 3.30 p.m. please come and support the choir for this devotion for choir and congregation for the start of Holy Week.

Holy Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, 10^th - 12^th April. 6.30 p.m. The Stations of the Cross & Mass.

Maundy Thursday - 13th April . 7.30 p.m. Sung Parish Mass with the Washing of the Feet and Stripping of the Altars. Celebrant: Rt Rev Jonathan Goodall, Bishop of Ebbsfleet

The Watch of the Passion. 9.00 p.m. until Midnight. 14th April .

Good Friday. – 14^th April 10.30 a.m. Family Stations of the Cross

The Liturgy of the Day with the Veneration of the Cross - 2.00 p.m. - Fr Darren Smith.

Holy Saturday - 15th April . The Easter Ceremonies of the Lighting of the Paschal Fire, Vigil & First Mass of Easter - 8.00 p.m. Celebrant: Fr Darren Smith.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 26th. March, 2017

We Welcome back Canon John Eardley as our celebrant and preacher today.

TREVOR NICHOLAS RIP. Our dear brother Trevor passed away in the early hours of Monday morning. His funeral will be here at St John's at 11 a.m. on Tuesday 11th. April, followed by the committal at the crematorium and a reception back at St. John's. Our thoughts, prayers and our thanks for keeping us so well informed go out to John.

BABLAKE SCHOOL CONCERT The Brass Ensemble will give a concert at 1.10 p.m. on Thursday 30th March.

EASTER LILIES Please give donations for Easter lilies in memory of loved ones to Ann Luckman. Thank you.

APCM 19th. March - A summary sheet is available today.

FR BRIAN’S SILVER ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION MASS . Today is the last chance to sign the sheet for Father Brian’s silver anniversary celebration Mass at 7.30 p.m. on Wednesday 28^th June at the Abbey Church of St Mary the Virgin, Manor Court Road, Nuneaton, CV11 5HU.

LENT & HOLY WEEK 2017

Friday 31^st March – NO SERVICE OF REFLECTION

Evening Lent Groups – the fourth evening Lent group, A World of Injustice, taken from the USPG course Living An Authentic Life-Discipleship and the World Church will be on Monday 27^th March at 7.30pm at Jo and Ann’s. Free course booklets, for those who would like to follow the course at home, are available at the back of church.

The Cross of Christ – 3.30 p.m. please come and support the choir for this devotion for choir and congregation for the start of Holy Week.

Holy Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, 10^th - 12^th April. 6.30 p.m. The Stations of the Cross & Mass.

Maundy Thursday - 13th April . 7.30 p.m. Sung Parish Mass with the Washing of the Feet and Stripping of the Altars. Celebrant: Rt Rev Jonathan Goodall, Bishop of Ebbsfleet

The Watch of the Passion. 9.00 p.m. until Midnight. 14th April .

Good Friday. – 14^th April 10.30 a.m. Family Stations of the Cross

The Liturgy of the Day with the Veneration of the Cross - 2.00 p.m. - Fr Darren Smith.

Holy Saturday - 15th April . The Easter Ceremonies of the Lighting of the Paschal Fire, Vigil & First Mass of Easter - 8.00 p.m. Celebrant: Fr Darren Smith.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 19th. March, 2017

WE WELCOME back Fr Norman Stevens as our celebrant and preacher today.

APCM 19^th March. Please make your way to the hall after the service for our APCM today.

OFFA HOUSE . This coming Wednesday, 22 March, there will be an opportunity to give thanks for the life of Offa House, to look ahead and to listen to what the Spirit may be saying to the churches, from 7:30pm till 9:30pm at St Nicholas, Radford Semele. Refreshments will be available from 7pm. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you are going.

FR BRIAN’S SILVER ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION MASS . Father Brian invites all of St John’s congregation to his silver anniversary celebration Mass at 7.30 p.m. on Wednesday 28^th June at the Abbey Church of St Mary the Virgin, Manor Court Road, Nuneaton, CV11 5HU. We are requested to let Fr Brian know as soon as possible the numbers attending. Please sign the sheet at the back of church by the end of the month if you will be joining him.

SOUTH SUDAN APPEAL . We have sent £200.00 to Christian Aid’s appeal for South Sudan from our Sunday coffee restricted fund.

LENT 2017

Fridays in Lent . The noon service, with a reflection on Parables Revisited, followed by a Lenten Lunch, continues:

Friday 24^th March – Dives and Lazarus – Fr Tim Brooke

Friday 31^st March – NO SERVICE OF REFLECTION

Evening Lent Groups – the third evening Lent group, Living with Difference, taken from the USPG course Living An Authentic Life-Discipleship and the World Church will be on Monday 20^th March at 7.30pm at Jo and Ann’s. Free course booklets, for those who would like to follow the course at home, are available at the back of church.

Mothering Sunday . Next Sunday is Mothering Sunday and daffodils will be distributed as usual.

Palm Sunday - 9^th April .Our Mass starts at 9.45a.m. at the precinct fountain with the blessing of palms and procession to church (which will stay open for those who prefer not to process)

The Cross of Christ – 3.30 p.m. please come and support the choir for this devotion for choir and congregation for the start of Holy Week.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 12th. March, 2017

WE WELCOME back Canon John Eardley as our celebrant and preacher today.

APCM 19^th March. Please make every effort to come to our APCM after Mass on Sunday 19^th March. It is also:

COVENTRY HALF MARATHON – Please use Junction 7 (Spon End-IKEA) to access Corporation Street, which was open from 9.45 a.m last year. Before this, there has been an agreement to open the barrier at the back of the Odeon so we can access Spon Street beyond the Odeon car park - also off Junction 7. The ring road will be open in both directions. People living in Coundon should come down the Radford Road which is open in the City Centre direction-crossing points on Barker Butts Lane close at 9.45a.m. The Holyhead Road from Morrisons to Allesley is open out of town only-to avoid this use the Allesley Old Road.

SOUTH SUDAN APPEAL . We have sent £200.00 to Christian Aid’s appeal for South Sudan from our Sunday coffee restricted fund.

LENT 17

Fridays in Lent . The noon service, with a reflection on Parables Revisited, followed by a Lenten Lunch, continues:

Friday 17^th March – The Good Samaritan – Canon David Tilley

Friday 24^th March – Dives and Lazarus – Fr Tim Brooke

Evening Lent Groups – the second evening Lent group, How Shall We Live, taken from the USPG course Living An Authentic Life-Discipleship and the World Church will be on Monday 13^th March at 7.30pm at Jo and Ann’s. Free course booklets, for those who would like to follow the course at home, are available at the back of church.

OFFA HOUSE . On 22 March there will be an opportunity to give thanks for the life of Offa House, to look ahead and to listen to what the Spirit may be saying to the churches, from 7:30pm till 9:30pm at St Nicholas, Radford Semele. Refreshments will be available from 7pm. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you are going.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 5th. March, 2017

WE WELCOME back Canon John Randall as our celebrant and preacher today.

APCM 19^th March. Please make every effort to come to our APCM after Mass on Sunday 19^th March. It is also:

SOUTH SUDAN APPEAL . We have sent £200.00 to Christian Aid’s appeal for South Sudan from our Sunday coffee restricted fund.

LENT 17

Fridays in Lent . The noon service, with a reflection on Parables Revisited, followed by a Lenten Lunch, continues:

Friday 10^th March – The Prodigal Son - Major Gethin Thomas (Coventry City Salvation Army Corps) Friday 17^th March – The Good Samaritan – Canon David Tilley

Friday 24^th March – Dives and Lazarus – Fr Tim Brooke

Evening Lent Groups – the first evening Lent group, Introducing Discipleship, taken from the USPG course Living An Authentic Life-Discipleship and the World Church will be on Monday 6^th March at 7.30pm at Jo and Ann’s. Free course booklets, for those who would like to follow the course at home, are available at the back of church.

DAY PILGRIMAGE TO WALSINGHAM . In addition to the four day pilgrimage in August (see notice board), St Luke’s is also organising a one day trip on Bank Holiday Monday 29th May. If you are interested in going please call Jenny on 7672 5950.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 26th. February 2017

WE WELCOME back Father Norman Stevens as our celebrant and preacher today.

ELECTORAL ROLL – The annual revision of the electoral roll commenced on Sunday 12th February and will end today. If you wish to join the electoral roll or have moved during the past year, please speak with Sheila. The new roll will be published on 5th March ready for our APCM on 19th March.

GUILD OF SERVERS OF THE SANCTUARY . Members of the congregation are invited to the servers Guild Office at 3 pm on Saturday 4th March. This will be followed by tea and the GSS AGM.

LENT 17 . Ash Wednesday - Wednesday 1^st March. Fr Brian Regan will be celebrating Mass with Imposition of Ashes at 7 pm. Speak to a church warden if you need a lift to this service.

Fridays in Lent . Once again there will be a noon service, with a reflection on Parables Revisited, followed by a Lenten Lunch, on the first four Fridays in Lent.

Friday 3^rd March – Approaching Parables – Rev Dr Peter Whale – this week

Friday 10^th March – The Prodigal Son – Major Gethin Thomas
(Coventry City Salvation Army Corps)

Friday 17^th March – The Good Samaritan – Canon David Tilley

Friday 24^th March – Dives and Lazarus – Fr Tim Brooke

Evening Lent Groups – you are welcome to join the evening Lent group which will follow the USPG course

Discipleship and the World Church and will be on Monday evenings at 7.30pm. Please give your name to Jo.

Holy Week – Fr Darren Smith (General Secretary of ACS) will be leading our Worship from Palm Sunday through to Easter Sunday with the exception of Maundy Thursday, when Bishop Jonathan will be presiding.

ST LUKE’S HOLBROOKS PILGRIMAGE TO WALSINGHAM . St Luke’s Holbrooks are planning a pilgrimage to The Shrine of Our Lady at Walsingham from Monday 14^th to Thursday 17^th August and have invited interested members of St John’s to join them. The cost for full board will be £182 with extra for travel. A deposit of £50 will be requested. Please see the poster on the noticeboard or contact Jenny on 76275950 if you are interested.

DAY PILGRIMAGE TO WALSINGHAM – In addition to the four day pilgrimage in August (see notice board), St Luke’s is also organising a one day trip on Bank Holiday Monday 29th May. If you are interested in going please call Jenny on 7672 5950.

OFFA HOUSE - On 22 March there will be an opportunity to give thanks for the life of Offa House, to look ahead and to listen to what the Spirit may be saying to the churches, from 7:30pm till 9:30pm at St Nicholas, Radford Semele. Refreshments will be available from 7pm. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you are going.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 19th. February 2017

SECOND SUNDAY BEFORE LENT

We are God’s holy people, made perfect through the loving work of God in Christ.

Let us bring God our praise and thanksgiving.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be this coming Friday, February 24^th at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch.

ELECTORAL ROLL – The annual revision of the electoral roll commenced on Sunday 12th February and will end on 26th. If you wish to join the electoral roll or have moved during the past year, please speak with Sheila. The new roll will be published on 5th March ready for our APCM on 19th March.

LENT 17 . Ash Wednesday - Wednesday 1^st March. Fr Brian Regan will be celebrating Mass with Imposition of Ashes at 7 pm. Speak to a church warden if you need a lift to this service.

Fridays in Lent – once again there will be a noon service, with a reflection on Parables Revisited, followed by a Lenten Lunch, on the first four Fridays in Lent.

Friday 3^rd March – Approaching Parables – Rev Dr Peter Whale

Friday 10^th March – The Prodigal Son – Major Gethin Thomas
(Coventry City Salvation Army Corps)

Friday 17^th March – The Good Samaritan – Canon David Tilley

Friday 24^th March – Dives and Lazarus – Fr Tim Brooke

Evening Lent Groups – you are welcome to join the evening Lent group which will follow the USPG course

Discipleship and the World Church and will be on Monday evenings at 7.30pm. Please give your name to Jo.

MESSAGE FROM TIM OF THE FOOD BANK . "Just to let everyone at St John’s know that the total amount donated this month was 49.90kg, which is great for January donations. Once again for your continued support and especially for the variety-brilliant!"

VISITOR MINISTRY . Mike reports that despite the church only being open around 80% of the mornings in January, we were able to achieve a church record of 270 for the month - which is traditionally the worst month of the year. Many thanks to our visitor team for all their help. Mike is still keen for new volunteers; so please contact him if you have some spare weekly time.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 12th. February 2017

THIRD SUNDAY BEFORE LENT

Grace, mercy and peace are gifts promised to the children of God in Christ Jesus.
Let us praise God with thanksgiving for all He has given us.

TODAY’S SERVICES.

10.00 a.m. Sung Mass
WE WELCOME back the Canon John Randall as our celebrant and preacher today.

LENT 17 . Ash Wednesday - Wednesday 1st March. Fr Brian Regan will be celebrating Mass with Imposition of Ashes at 7 pm. Speak to a church warden if you need a lift to this service.

Fridays in Lent – once again there will be a noon service, with a reflection on Parables Revisited, followed by a Lenten Lunch, on the first four Fridays in Lent.
Friday 3rd March – Approaching Parables – Rev Dr Peter Whale
Friday 10th  March – The Prodigal Son – Major Gethin Thomas (Coventry City Salvation Army Corps)
Friday 17th  March – The Good Samaritan – Canon David Tilley
Friday 24th  March – Dives and Lazarus – Fr Tim Brooke

Evening Lent Groups – you are welcome to join the evening Lent group which will follow the USPG course

Discipleship and the World Church and will be on Monday evenings at 7.30pm. Please give your name to Jo.

Holy Week – Fr Darren Cox (General Secretary of ACS) will be leading our Worship from Palm Sunday through to Easter Sunday with the exception of Maundy Thursday, when Bishop Jonathan will be presiding.

APCM . This will take place after Mass on Sunday 19th March. Please note this date in your diary.

MESSAGE FROM TIM OF THE FOOD BANK . "Just to let everyone at St John’s know that the total amount donated this month was 49.90kg, which is great for January donations. Once again for your continued support and especially for the variety-brilliant!"

VISITOR MINISTRY . Mike reports that despite the church only being open around 80% of the mornings in January, we were able to achieve a church record of 270 for the month - which is traditionally the worst month of the year. Many thanks to our visitor team for all their help. Mike is still keen for new volunteers; so please contact him if you have some spare weekly time.

ST LUKE’S HOLBROOKS PILGRIMAGE TO WALSINGHAM . St Luke’s Holbrooks are planning a pilgrimage to The Shrine of Our Lady at Walsingham from Monday 14th to Thursday 17th August and have invited interested members of St John’s to join them. The cost for full board will be £182 and travel will be extra. A deposit of £50 will be requested. Please see the poster on the noticeboard or contact Jenny on 76275950 if you are interested.

OFFA HOUSE - On 22 March there will be an opportunity to give thanks for the life of Offa House, to look ahead and to listen to what the Spirit may be saying to the churches, from 7:30pm till 9:30pm at St Nicholas, Radford Semele. Refreshments will be available from 7pm. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you are going.
SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be on Friday, February 24th at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 5th February 2017

PRAYER CIRCLE . An updated edition of the prayer circle is available at the back of church.

PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN SERVICE . Come and hear about, and pray for, Fresh Start: a new initiative pioneered by Together for Change, seeking to mobilise churches in Coventry to both befriend and provide practical support to people from different cultural backgrounds. Introduced by Matt Robinson (Project Coordinator). Monday 6th February 4pm-5pm in the Chapel of Unity. Details from John Lloyd, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 02476 413004

OFFA HOUSE – A MESSAGE FROM BISHOP JOHN . “For all that has been, thanks. For all that will be, yes!” Dag Hammarskjöld. On 22 March there will be an opportunity to give thanks for the life of Offa House, to look ahead and to listen to what the Spirit may be saying to the churches. Refreshments will be available from 7pm with the event taking place from 7:30pm till 9:30pm at St Nicholas, Radford Semele, CV31 1TA.It would be helpful, although not essential, to let us know if you intend to come. Please email Kerry Vanston-Rumney - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

INTERCESSIONS FOR OUR PARISH . All Society parishes are prayed for at Mass in The English Chapel at Christ The King, Gordon Square. Our parish will be remembered by name in the intercessions on: Monday 6th February and also at exposition of the Blessed Sacrament on Thursday of that week.

VISITOR MINISTRY . Mike announced at the last PCC that last year’s visitor figure of 7293 was yet another record for St John’s Visitor Ministry, a 38% increase on last year’s results. Heritage Days, St George’s Day, the Peace Festival and the staging of the Thousand Years of Coventry exhibition, together with longer opening times in the summer were contributing factors to the increase. Mike is still keen for new volunteers; so please contact him if you have some spare weekly time. Our thanks to Mike and the team.

BISHOP OF COVENTRY VISITS IRAQ . Last week, the Bishop Christopher visited Iraq as part of a global delegation of church leaders. The 14-member delegation organised by the World Council of Churches (WCC) spent five days in Iraq, in both Baghdad and the northern Kurdistan region. During the trip, the delegation talked to political religious and humanitarian leaders about the future of vulnerable people in Iraq following the expected military defeat of so-called ‘Islamic state.’

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be on Friday, February 24^th at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch.

On Saturday 21st. January there was a Ecumenical Service in the Chapel of Unity at 1 pm
For the text of the sermon click here or for other ecumenical information
follow this link to the Chapel of Unity

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 29th January 2017

Candlemas - The Presentation of Christ in the Temple

PRAYER CIRCLE . An updated edition of the prayer circle is available at the back of church.

FEBRUARY 5^th . Next Sunday, February 5^th, we welcome Very Reverend John Witcombe, Dean of Coventry Cathedral as our celebrant and preacher.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be on Friday, February 27^th at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 22nd January 2017

THE THIRD SUNDAY OF EPIPHANY

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be on this coming Friday, January 27th at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch. Donations will be shared with The Children’s Society.

VISITOR MINISTRY . Mike announced at last Thursday’s PCC that last year’s visitor figure of 7293 was yet another record for St John’s Visitor Ministry, a 38% increase on last year’s results. Heritage Days, St George’s Day, the Peace Festival and the staging of the Thousand Years of Coventry exhibition, together with longer opening times in the summer were contributing factors to the increase. Mike is still keen for new volunteers; so please contact him if you have some spare weekly time. Our thanks to Mike and the team.

PRAYER CIRCLE . If you have asked for anyone to be put on St John’s Prayer list, please speak to Jo with an update on their progress.

HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL DAY . The City Council would like to make you aware of some important events taking place in Coventry city centre on Friday 27th January. This year’s theme is “How Can Life Go On”

12 noon to 12.30: Lidice Place Rededication Ceremony – Lidice Place. All welcome

1pm to 1.45pm: Holocaust Memorial Day event – Broadgate. All welcome

2.30pm to 4pm: Talk by Dr Martin Stern (Holocaust survivor) followed by Q and A’s – Lord Mayor’s Hospitality Suite, The Council House, Earl St. All welcome

JANUARY 29th – CANDLEMAS . A reminder that on January 29th our Candlemas service will start in the hall from where we process onto church, so please gather there and not in church.

THE BENEFICE . The new advertisement for the post of Rector went live on Friday 6th January with a closing date of 17th February. The interview process is booked for 5th March (evening meeting with PCC) and 6thMarch (starting with breakfast for community members).

AGE UK . A representative from Age UK talked to the wardens last week and has left some handbooks detailing how Age UK services can help the over 50s at the back of church together with a list of classes.

REPAIR & RESTORATION OF THE MAIN DOOR . The work to repair the damage to our main door caused by vandalism and to our notice board has now been completed.

FEBRUARY 5th . On February 5th we welcome Very Reverend John Witcombe, Dean of Coventry Cathedral as our celebrant and preacher.

Further Information from the NEWS Sheet of Sunday 15th January 2017

PRAYER CIRCLE . If you have asked for anyone to be put on St John’s Prayer list, please speak to Jo with an update on their progress.

THE BENEFICE . The new advertisement for the post of Rector went live on Friday 6th January with a closing date of 17^th February. The interview process is booked for 5^th March (evening meeting with PCC) and 6^th March (starting with breakfast for community members).

AGE UK . A representative from Age UK talked to the wardens this week and has left some handbooks detailing how Age UK services can help the over 50s at the back of church together with a list of classes.

EILEEN CAIRNS . As a result of donations £75 was sent to the local Air Ambulance in memory of Eileen Cairns in lieu of flowers.

REPAIR & RESTORATION OF THE MAIN DOOR . The work to repair the damage to our main door caused by vandalism and to our notice board has now been completed.

STREET PASTORS . 7 new street pastors were commissioned here in St John’s on Friday 6^th January at an ecumenical service. Both the street pastors and the police thanked us for the use of our hall in December. We received a donation of £50 towards the heating and the police have visited to share their vision for future use. If anyone is interested in becoming a street pastor speak to the Church Wardens.

SERVICE OF REFLECTION . The next Service of Reflection will be on Friday January 27^th at noon and will be followed by a jacket potato lunch. Donations will be shared with The Children’s Society.

JANUARY 29^th – CANDLEMAS . A reminder that on January 29^th our Candlemas service will start in the hall from where we process onto church, so please gather there and not in church.

FEBRUARY 5^th . On February 5^th we welcome Very Reverend John Witcombe, Dean of Coventry Cathedral as our celebrant and preacher.

Older information from Events in 2016 :-

HERITAGE DAYS.

St Johns was singled out for praise at the Coventry Heritage meeting last Wednesday (26th Oct?) by the Chairman Roger Bailey.

He stated that during Heritage Days 2016 we were....".....the anchor attraction of the event in the city" and went on to say that we received great notices from council officials, heritage members and the public.

A big thank you to all who made this a great success.

BARDSLEY WORK CLUB

- urgently needs a couple more work club volunteers - it is now getting 5 or 6 clients at a session, some needing one-to-one help. A copy of the job description is at the back of the church for anyone who might be interested.

HARVEST THANKSGIVING

Thanks to all who contributed or bought produce. As a result of selling the produce a further £32 worth of food was added to the foodbank bin, which is now full. Some produce has also been taken to the Forum.

See below some photos taken at the Harvest Thanksgiving.

Sunflowers