Fr Frank writes:
My Dear Friends,
As we approach the end of the Church’s Year our readings take on an apocalyptic feel.
In our Gospel we are advised not to waste the gifts God has given us, but to develop them. These ‘talents’ can take many forms (we may be musicians, speakers, teachers, good at befriending others, good with our hands and so on), but we must take care that we use these gifts, and use them for good, for building up the Kingdom.
During Advent we prepare not only for Christmas but also for Christ’s Second Coming that final event that St Paul refers to in today’s New Testament reading. To help our Advent preparation we will be holding Advent Reconciliation Services in both parishes. In Frinton on 9th December and in Dovercourt on 16th December, both beginning at 10.00am. Please put these dates in your diary now. There will be three priests at both services, and, if you wish to, there will be an opportunity to make individual confession. But whether you intend to make your confession or not, please come along.
To aid our preparation there will also be Healing Masses during Advent: in Frinton at 12 noon on 7th December, and in Dovercourt at 10.00am on 8th December.
Please make good use of these opportunities for spiritual growth as we approach the great Feast of Christmas.
May God richly bless you now and always.
Frank ofs
Sunday Smile: A travelling preacher took his wife to one of his appointments. She was left on her own in the chapel and eventually sat down in a back pew. A steward came and chatted to her not knowing who she was but warmly welcomed her to the service. Afterwards, as she was on her way out, the steward whispered to her confidentially: ‘Let me tell you, we don’t get a duffer like this one in the pulpit every Sunday.’