4th Sunday Of The Year – Year C

2022 Archdiocesan Directories – Hurry while Stocks Last!

Just what you have all been waiting for – the must read book of 2022… The new edition of the Archdiocesan Directory, an absolute page turner and an invaluable source of information, is now available and is on sale today at the back of the Church for only £3.00 each. Hurry while stocks last!!

First Confessions

There will be a final, online meeting for parents of children who are preparing to make the Sacrament of First Confession on Monday evening. You should have received a link from Fr Jamie or the school office - if not, please contact frjamie@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Confirmation for Children

Thanks to all those who were able to take part in our parents' meeting for the Sacrament of Confirmation on Monday evening. This Sunday at Mass, the children will be formally enrolled for this Sacrament - please keep them in your prayers. Classes for children not attending Catholic schools will begin in the parish rooms at Ravelston at 6pm on Sunday 6 February.

Young Adults Group: Mary, Mother of the Redeemer

Our series on the life and thought of St John Paul II got off to a great start on Tuesday! We continue this week with a talk titled, 'Mary: Mother of the Redeemer' with guest speaker Fr Christopher Doig, a newly-ordained priest from the Diocese of Aberdeen. The talk will take place on Tuesday, 1st February at 63 York Place with doors opening at 7pm. All adults, aged 18-35, very welcome!

2022 Marriage Preparation Courses: 18th June and 27th August

The Cathedral organises four Marriage Preparation courses each year, featuring presentations, testimonies and workshops led by married couples from the parish. The next course will take place on Saturday, 18th of June from 10am-5pm and the last one of the year will be held Saturday, 27th of August. Although priority is given to Cathedral / Ravelston parishioners, this course is also open to people from other parishes and dioceses –spread the word! To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Parish Volunteers – Safeguarding Training Online in Two Parts

Safeguarding Training currently only needs to be done by volunteers who are in a regulated role requiring a Protecting Vulnerable Group form. Induction Part 1 must be completed before Induction Part 2 is done. (Induction Part 2 should be completed approx. 18 months after Induction Part 1 has been done). Both Part 1 and Part 2 are approximately 90 minutes each. To register and for further details, please visit, https://archedinburgh.org/administration/safeguarding-training/

First Saturday Devotions

On Saturday, 5th February, 9:30am all are welcome for Our Lady of Fatima devotions before 10:00am Mass.

Society of St. Vincent de Paul Table at Church Door After Masses

The Society of St Vincent de Paul (SSVP) will resume our weekly presence at the church door at the end of 9am and 12pm Mass on Sundays, and at the 6pm Saturday Vigil Mass if enough personnel are available to answer queries. After our very successful Christmas lunch, our next event will be a Music and Afternoon Tea event in early April. We have some electronic devices to distribute to get the over 70’s digitally connected. If this is of interest, please approach us about receiving one. They come with broadband and lessons! If you would like to learn more about the works of the SSVP serving the poor in our community, please stop and speak to us or email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Introduction to the Gospel of Luke

It was great to see so many people at our online meeting to discuss St Luke's Gospel. If you missed it, or would like to watch it again, you can do so online here: https://youtu.be/9Pj2hivR85A

In addition to our weekly group discussion of the upcoming Sunday readings (Mondays at 7) our next Bible study event will be a talk given by Fr Paul Denney, titled ‘In the Beginning: An Introduction to the Book of Genesis.’ This will take place at 63 York Place at 7pm on Thursday 10th February. No need to register - all welcome!

Happy 100th Birthday to Helen MacDonald!

One special parishioner, Helen McDonald, celebrates her 100th birthday this weekend. As a sign of our love for her, this Sunday's Mass at Ravelston will be offered for Helen's intentions. Helen has asked for donations to Mary's Meals by anyone wishing to send her a gift. Any such gift would be matched if donated before 31 January. Donate online at https://www.marysmeals.org.uk/donate

Progress Report on Parish House Rewiring

The electricians are now working hard in the Parish House. The Rooms are usable in daylight and were much appreciated for last week's re-opened Sunday café. The fundraising effort is ongoing with the balance just over £4,000 now - thank you! Our achievable target is £5,000, 25% of the total cost. More donations are very welcome to achieve (or even exceed?) the target amount. For details of how to donate and to view the pledge board, Find out how you can donate and view the pledge board here.or contact finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Volunteers Needed for St Andrew’s, Ravelston

St Andrew’s Ravelston would be grateful for volunteers to help in any of the following roles: Cleaning, Cash Counting, Sunday Coffee rota, Children’s Catechists, Choir, Eucharistic Ministers, Readers, Passkeepers, Flower Arranging. Many roles are on a rota basis and would only need a commitment every 6 to 8 weeks. If interested in volunteering, please do contact cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Pray for Vocations! Mass with Archbishop Cushley, 8th February, 7:30pm

This month’s Archdiocesan Vocations Mass will be celebrated by Archbishop Cushley on Tuesday, 8th February at 7:30pm here at the Cathedral. All are welcome! The Vocations Mass is an opportunity for people to come together to pray that more people will respond to God’s call to the priesthood or religious life. For more information on priesthood contact Fr. Andrew Garden, Vocations Director, vocations@staned.org.uk and visit https://archedinburgh.org/vocations/

For information on religious life, contact Sr. Mirjam Hugens, FSO at religiousvocations@staned.org.uk and visit https://www.ukvocation.org/religious-life

National Synod Event with Cardinal Grech - 2pm, Saturday 12 February

The Bishops’ Conference of Scotland (BCOS) hosts ‘Synodality in the Life & Mission of the Church’ at 2pm on Saturday 12 February. The keynote speaker will be Cardinal Mario Grech, General Secretary of the Synod of Bishops. This online event will be streamed on the BCOS YouTube channel at bit.ly/BCOSYouTube

Two FREE Events to Help you Grow in Holiness!

Called and Gifted Workshop – Saturday, 19th February

You have received gifts in Baptism and Confirmation through which God intends His love to reach others! Come and discover these charisms in you at the Called and Gifted Workshop. It takes place from 8:30am-5:30pm on Saturday February 19th at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh. To register and for more info visit bit.ly/calledgifted

Making Disciples Seminar – Friday, 25th February-Sunday, 27th February

Learn how God is at work in your life and in the lives of others in this three-day seminar, Friday 25 - Sun 27 February at St Kentigern’s Church, 26-28 Parkgrove Avenue, Barnton, EH4 7QR. The event will sharpen your evangelisation skills and show how each of us can be an instrument in God’s hand as we walk as His disciples. It will be based on Sherry Weddell’s book Forming Intentional Disciples: The Path to Knowing and Following Jesus. To register and for more info visit bit.ly/disciplesseminar

Events for Married and Engaged Couples in March, April and May

The Archdiocese is hosting events for married and engaged couples in the lead up to the 10th World Meeting of Families (Rome 22-26 June 2022). These events are for couples to come before the Lord together in reflection on the beautiful Catholic vision of marriage and family life, thanksgiving for the gift of this calling and prayer for the blessing of their love. The reflections will draw on themes developed in Pope Francis' Encyclical Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love).

Events at Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh:

Sunday 6th March 2022, 4.00-5.00pm - Holy Hour with Archbishop Leo Cushley.

Sunday 3rd April 2022, 4.00-5.30pm - Testimony and Holy Hour with Anton and Angela Colella.

Sunday 8th May 2022, 3.00-5.30pm - Afternoon Retreat with Brian and Maureen Devine.

St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral: Wednesday 18th May 2022, 7.00pm - Mass for Married and Engaged Couples

Register for all events at bit.ly/ArchEventbrite (scroll down to select event).

New Pregnancy Support Charity Needs Help with Images and Brochures

Do you have experience in Adobe, particularly in Design and Photoshop? Could you help Stanton Healthcare, a new pregnancy support charity in Edinburgh, with their images and brochures? Find out more from Paul Atkin at the Archdiocesan Pro-Life Office - paul.atkin@staned.org.uk

Opportunity to Begin Again After Separation, Divorce or Death

The loss of a loved one through separation, divorce or death is one of life’s most traumatic experiences. Beginning Experience, Scotland Team are holding a weekend for those ready to come to terms with that loss and begin to move forward with their lives. The weekend will take place 25th-27th March 2022 at St. Mary’s Redemptorist Centre for Christian Spirituality, Kinnoul, Perth. For details contact Catherine, 0131 665 3383 or beginningexperiencescotland@hotmail.com

Completed applications must be returned by Saturday, 12th March 2022. More information at https://beginningexperience.org/team/scotland/

Read the newsletter for 30th January (pdf)

3rd Sunday Of The Year – Year C

Introduction to the Gospel of Luke

Thursday 27 January at 7pm on Zoom

This year in our Sunday Gospel Readings we will be working our way through Luke’s Gospel. Each of the Gospels has its own structure and its own viewpoint – and so to really understand the message of the Gospel we need to know something about it and about its particularities.

To help you understand the Gospel this year I am giving a one-off, special event (!) broadcast on Thursday 27th January at 7pm on Luke and his Gospel.

Zoom is super easy to use – all you need is a computer (or a smartphone) and the internet. So why not “come along” this Thursday. It will only be an hour and I think it might just help you to understand the Gospel readings this year and their relevance for your life.

To “attend” all you need to do is email Fr. Jamie on frjamie@stmaryscathedral.co.uk and if you can’t make it on Thursday, the recording will be on the website afterwards.

Young Adults Group (18-35): Tuesday 25th January 7pm

This Tuesday 25th the series of talks on the Pontificate of St John Paul II begins with guest speaker Fr Michael John Galbraith, Catholic chaplain at the University of Andrews. He'll be speaking on Pope John Paul II's first encyclical 'Redemptor Hominis' and the tremendous impact of his Pontificate. Fr Michael John is an excellent speaker - do mark your diaries and make sure to come along! No prior knowledge will be assumed, but if you'd like to read the encyclical in advance of the talk, you can find it here.

Confirmation Class for Adults: Begins March

Once again, this Lent the Cathedral will be offering a course with an overview of the Catholic faith aimed at adults, with opportunities for group discussion, in preparation for receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation at the Easter Vigil on Saturday, 16th April 2022. To register, contact cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Synod Meeting for St. Giles’ Deanery at the Cathedral 26th January

Pope Francis invites the whole Church to question itself on synodality. For all the parishes in our St. Giles’ Deanery, a Synodal Meeting will be held at St. Mary’s Cathedral Wednesday, 26th January - Synodal Meeting, 7:00pm-9:00pm, Coffee Saints café. All are welcome. Find out more about the Synod process in our Archdiocese visit https://archedinburgh.org/synod-deanery-events-in-2022/

2022 Marriage Preparation Course: 29th January, 10am – 5pm

The Cathedral organises four Marriage Preparation courses each year, featuring presentations, testimonies and workshops led by married couples from the parish. The next course will take place on Saturday 29th January from 10am-5pm, with future courses running on the 18th of June and 27th of August. Although priority is given to Cathedral / Ravelston parishioners, this course is also open to people from other parishes and dioceses – feel free to spread the word! To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Children’s Catechism Classes for First Communion and Confirmation

First Communion is open to all children in Primary 4 and above and will begin with a meeting for all parents on Monday 21st February. For children aged Primary 7 and above, there will be an opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation, with an introductory meeting for parents on Monday 24th January. Prior registration is essential! First Holy Communion: https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/first-communion

Confirmation: https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/confirmation

Legion of Mary Youth Group Meetings

The Legion of Mary is a lay association of Catholics which seek to help its members grow in holiness through devotion to Our Lady and by carrying out works of mercy. All are welcome to join. The youth group meets on Mondays at 19:00 at 63 York place. Just come along and see what we do - there is no commitment immediately. For more details, please email OurLadyCauseOfOurJoyEdinburgh@gmail.com or contact Godwin Enemali, ilemonaene@gmail.com

Progress Report on Rewire of Parish House

At time of writing, the toilets and kitchen of the Parish Rooms are largely rewired and usable. The main Parish Rooms are rewired apart from finishing jobs and the two chandelier lights (which will be rewired from the floors above in February). Rewiring is well underway in the Parish House. A 'thermometer chart in the bay window shows funding progress. Our achievable target is £5,000, 25% of the total cost. Many thanks to those who have already donated to achieve the new balance of £3,710. More donations are very welcome to achieve (or even exceed?) the target amount. Find out how you can donate and view the pledge board here.or contact finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Ravelston Sunday Café reopening on 23rd January

Given the progress listed above we are 95% confident that the cafe can reopen on Sunday 23 Jan.

Concluding Talk on Family Life and Love: Monday, 24th January

The final talk in free mini-course about family life and love in God's plan of salvation will be offered on Monday, 24th January, 1:30pm on Zoom explaining Pope Francis’ 2016 Apostolic Exhortation “The Joy of Love” (Amoris Laetitia). Register at bit.ly/AmorisTalks

This is the third in a series of talks led by Sr Anna Marie, RSM, the Archdiocese’s Catechetics Advisor, and Fr Nick Welsh, Vice Rector of the Scots College in Rome. Watch the 10th and 17th January talks anytime at bit.ly/ArchYouTube

Becoming and Making Disciples Today Workshop – 25th-27th February

The Archdiocese is hosting a Forming Intentional Disciples workshop, where you can learn how God is at work in your life and in the lives of others. It will show how each of us can be an instrument in God’s hand as we walk as His disciples. The three-day workshop starts on Friday 25th February at St Kentigern’s Church, 26-28 Parkgrove Avenue, Barnton, EH4 7QR. To register and for more info please email SrAnna.Marie@staned.org.uk

Called and Gifted Workshop – 19th February

You have received gifts in Baptism and Confirmation through which God intends His love to reach others. Come and discover these charisms in you at the Called and Gifted Workshop. It takes place at 9-5pm on Saturday February 19th at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh and is hosted by the Archdiocese’s Catechetics Commission. To register and for more info please email SrAnna.Marie@staned.org.uk

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (Ages 3-7)

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a program rooted in Scripture and the liturgy of the Church, is offered, free of charge, to children ages 3-7 at St. Columba’s Parish, 9 Upper Gray St, Edinburgh EH9 1SN. Children from any parish are welcome to take part. Sessions for children ages 3-4 are held Tuesday mornings from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and sessions for children ages 5-7 are held on Friday afternoons. Please contact Sister Anna Marie McGuan, RSM at SrAnna.Marie@staned.org.uk to register your child. To learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, visit http://www.cgsuk.org/

Events for Married and Engaged Couples in March, April and May

The Archdiocese is hosting events for married and engaged couples in the lead up to the 10th World Meeting of Families (Rome 22-26 June 2022). These events are for couples to come before the Lord together in reflection on the beautiful Catholic vision of marriage and family life, thanksgiving for the gift of this calling and prayer for the blessing of their love. The reflections will draw on themes developed in Pope Francis' Encyclical Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love).

Events at Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh:

Sunday 6th March 2022, 4.00-5.00pm - Holy Hour with Archbishop Leo Cushley.

Sunday 3rd April 2022, 4.00-5.30pm - Testimony and Holy Hour with Anton and Angela Colella.

Sunday 8th May 2022, 3.00-5.30pm - Afternoon Retreat with Brian and Maureen Devine.

St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral: Wednesday 18th May 2022, 7.00pm - Mass for Married and Engaged Couples

Register for all events at bit.ly/ArchEventbrite (scroll down to select event).

Alma Mater Fund

The Alma Mater Fund is an initiative of the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children, which provides financial grants to pregnant students facing difficulties at university to support them in pursuing their academic and personal goals. For more information, visit almamaterfund.org.uk or email info@almamaterfund.org.uk

Stronghold Festival 2022 for Young People Aged 16-35

A four-day camping event in Dalmally for young people aged 16-35 who want to draw deeper into relationship with God will be held over Pentecost Weekend, 2nd-5th June at Craig Lodge, Dalmally, Argyll, PA33 1AR. Stronghold Festival 2022 is an opportunity for young people to come away to be with the Lord and includes Mass, Adoration of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, insightful talks and more! Early bird tickets on sale now! For more information, visit www.strongholdfestival.com

Pro-Life Youth Conference 25-27 February

The largest UK pro-life youth conference takes place 25-27 February 2022 in Stone, Staffordshire. It’s open to people aged 16-35 and a chance to meet fellow young pro-life leaders, be inspired and have fun. Register https://www.spuc.org.uk/youthconference2022. Sponsorship available to young people in our Archdiocese. Please contact the Archdiocesan Pro-Life Office at prolife@staned.org.uk.

National Safeguarding Update

The new Scottish Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency has been established as an independent body to oversee the Church’s safeguarding practice. The latest issue of the Safeguarding Matters newsletter provides details of what the agency will do available at bit.ly/3tyeInn

Lady Rae is looking to recruit people to act as Board Directors to support the work of the agency. Details at https://aspenpeople.co.uk/microsite/scssa/

There will be a special collection today for the National Commission for Justice and Peace.

Read the newsletter for 23 January (pdf)

2nd Sunday Of The Year – Year C

First Confession: Rite of Illumination at Mass this Sunday

Today at Mass we welcome in a particular way the children who are preparing to make their First Confession in early February. They will participate in a brief Rite after the homily at the 9am Mass in the Cathedral and at 10.30am Mass in Ravelston. Please keep them in your prayers as they prepare to meet Jesus in this beautiful sacrament of the Lord’s forgiveness.

St Luke’s Gospel – Bible Study with Fr Patrick: Thursday 27 January

Our weekly online parish Bible study with Fr Jamie resumes this Monday evening at 7pm, looking at the upcoming readings for Sunday Mass. For those who’re not able to commit every week but would still like to go deeper into the Scriptures please consider attending a one-off, special event with Fr Patrick on Thursday 27th January at 7pm, where he’ll give an introductory overview of St Luke’s Gospel. This will take place on Zoom – those already signed up for the Bible Study mailing list will automatically receive the link, but all are very welcome to attend. For more information, email frjamie@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Children’s Catechism Classes for First Communion and Confirmation

Soon we’ll be getting ready to start catechism classes for First Holy Communion and Confirmation. First Communion is open to all children in Primary 4 and above and will begin with a meeting for all parents on Monday 21st February. For children aged Primary 7 and above, there will be an opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation, with an introductory meeting for parents on Monday 24th January. Prior registration is essential!

First Holy Communion: https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/first-communion

Confirmation: https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/confirmation

Young Adults Group (18-35): Film Night on Tuesday 18th January 7pm

To start off our series of talks on the Pontificate of St John Paul II, this Tuesday evening (18th January) the Young Adults Group will be watching a cinematic portrayal of his early life: 'Karol: A Man Who Became Pope.' Popcorn and soft drinks will be provided - feel free to bring your own left-over Christmas chocolates etc.! We’ll start at 7pm sharp at 63 York Place, as usual! The following week, Fr Michael John Galbraith will pick up where the film left off, with a talk about St John Paul’s first encyclical and the impact of his pontificate as a whole (25th January). Look forward to seeing you all there!

Grow Deeper in Your Catholic Faith - 2022 Diploma in Catechetics

The on-line Archdiocesan Diploma in Catechetics program is back by popular demand! The courses are held on Zoom on Thursdays at 7:30pm and will all be recorded, so if you can’t attend you can watch them at your convenience. We begin 27th January and finish 8th December, with a break over the summer holidays. Register at bit.ly/DiplomaCatechetics2022

After each 6-week module, participants meet one-on-one with Sr. Anna Marie, the course leader, to go over the content. For information, contact SrAnna.Marie@staned.org.uk . Reductions and student rates are available

Synod Events for St. Giles’ Deanery at the Cathedral – 19th and 26th January

Pope Francis invites the whole Church to question itself on synodality. For all the parishes in our St. Giles’ Deanery, two events will be held at St. Mary’s Cathedral:

Wednesday, 19th January - Preparatory Holy Hour: 7:00pm Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament with silent prayer, 7:30pm-8:30pm Holy Hour

Wednesday, 26th January - Synodal Meeting: 7:00pm-9:00pm, Coffee Saints café

All are welcome to both events. Find out more about the Synod process in our Archdiocese visit https://archedinburgh.org/synod-deanery-events-in-2022/

Coffee Saints Café Open 7 Days a Week

Mon–Sat 8.30am–5.00pm, Sun 9.00am–5.00pm

Stop in for a Friendly Chat with Engagement Officer for Over 60’s Parishioners

Do you need a little computer help to use Zoom to join a class or meeting or have a chat? Would you like to learn about art classes or join a free mini-bus trip? Friendly help is just around the corner at our own Coffee Saints café with Graham Burnett, the new ‘Engagement Officer’ for St Mary’s for over 60’s parishioners. Pop in and enjoy a chat with Graham over a FREE cuppa and cake! He is in Coffee Saints every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am-4pm. Do stop in or contact Graham: graham@grassmarket.org, 07568 202 547 to arrange a time to meet.

Tuesday Evenings Open Door Meal at Coffee Saints

Coffee Saints offers a free Open Door Meal (soup, main and sweet), followed by a free weekly film from Grassmarket’s Community Cinema on Tuesday evenings 5:00pm-6:30pm. The Open Door Meal is for anyone, but especially for those who are homeless, vulnerably housed or suffer from poverty. Parish volunteers are needed to help! Volunteers do not need to commit to every week, but will need to complete basic training before going on the rota. For information contact kevin@grassmarket.org

You can also help by purchasing a Pay it Forward voucher for £5 – you give the voucher to someone in need to redeem at the café or to hand back the voucher to Coffee Saints to go towards the Open Door Meal. Just visit Coffee Saints to find out more or email hello@coffeesaints.co.uk

2022 Marriage Preparation Courses: 29th January, 10am – 5pm

Congratulations to all recently engaged couples in the parish! To help to accompany them in their preparations for this important vocation, the Cathedral organises four courses each year, featuring presentations, testimonies and workshops led by married couples from the parish. The next course will take place on Saturday 29th January from 10am-5pm, with future courses running on the 18th of June and 27th of August. Although priority is given to Cathedral / Ravelston parishioners, this course is also open to people from other parishes and dioceses – feel free to spread the word! To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Want to become Catholic? RCIA Tuesdays 7pm on Zoom in January

The Cathedral’s Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) group is a place for those not baptized or baptized in a non-Catholic Christian tradition to ask questions and deepen their journey of faith in preparation for the sacraments of initiation at Easter. Meetings are on Zoom during January each Tuesday, 7:00pm-8:30pm. To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Confirmation Class for Adults: Begins March

Once again, this Lent the Cathedral will be offering Catholics who were baptised as infants but, for whatever reason, didn’t go on to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. This course offers an overview of the Catholic faith aimed at adults, with opportunities for group discussion, in preparation for receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation at the Easter Vigil on Saturday, 16th April 2022. To register, contact cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Special Collection for Justice & Peace Next Weekend

Next weekend (22nd-23rd January) there will be a special collection for the National Commission for Justice and Peace which advises the Scottish Bishops’ Conference in matters relating to social justice, international peace and human rights.

Progress Report on Rewire of Parish House

The team of electricians arrived promptly on Monday and are making good progress on the urgently needed rewire of the Parish House, beginning in the Parish Rooms. The furniture is stacked away and there are new cables oozing out of holes in the floors and walls. A 'thermometer chart' in the bay window shows funding progress. Our achievable target is £5,000, 25% of the total cost. Many thanks to those who have already donated to the current amount of £2,610. More donations are very welcome to achieve (or even exceed?) the target amount. Find out how you can donate and view the pledge board here.

Ravelston Sunday Café Cancelled for 16th January

Whilst great progress is being made in the works being carried out in the parish rooms, the rooms will not be ready for use for after-Mass teas and coffees today (January 16th). We hope to resume these soon – we’ll keep you posted!

Lunchtime Talks on Family Life and Love on Zoom: Monday, 17th January

A free mini-course about family life and love in God's plan of salvation is offered explaining Pope Francis’ 2016 Apostolic Exhortation “The Joy of Love” (Amoris Laetitia). The Monday lunchtime talks began on 10th January and run for two more weeks continuing at 1:30pm on 17 & 24 January on Zoom. Register at bit.ly/AmorisTalks

The talks are led by Sr Anna Marie, RSM, the Archdiocese’s Catechetics Advisor, and Fr Nick Welsh, Vice Rector of the Scots College in Rome. Watch the 10th January talk anytime at bit.ly/ArchYouTube in which Fr. Nick explains the history and beauty of the Church’s teaching in Humane Vitae (St. Paul VI) and Theology of the Body (St. John Paul II) leading up to Amoris Laetitia.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (Ages 3-7)

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a program rooted in Scripture and the liturgy of the Church, is offered, free of charge, to children ages 3-7 at St. Columba’s Parish, 9 Upper Gray St, Edinburgh EH9 1SN. Children from any parish are welcome to take part. Sessions for children ages 3-4 are held Tuesday mornings from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and sessions for children ages 5-7 are held on Friday afternoons. Please contact Sister Anna Marie McGuan, RSM at SrAnna.Marie@staned.org.uk to register your child.

To learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, visit http://www.cgsuk.org/

Overnight Adoration at Benedictine Monastery, Largs

Schedule a time for overnight Adoration of the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament from 9:30pm to 6:30am at the Benedictine Monastery, 5 Mackerston Place, Largs KA30 8BY. Take two hours of Adoration with a break for coffee or tea, then join the Benedictine Sisters for morning prayer. Women’s time of Adoration is the third Friday of each month and men’s is the last Friday of each month. You can also make a private retreat! More information at https://www.tyburnconvent.org.uk/tyburnlargs or contact 01475 687 320, benedictinemonasterylargs@yahoo.com

Mass of Thanksgiving – Rutilio Grande SJ

The Archbishop will celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving at Sacred Heart Church, Lauriston, 6:30pm on Saturday 22 January to celebrate the news that Rutilio Grande SJ will soon be beatified. Fr. Grande was a Jesuit priest and friend of St Oscar Romero, assassinated alongside two parish workers in El Salvador. All are welcome.

SPUC Youth Conference

The largest UK pro-life youth conference takes place 25-27 February 2022 in Stone, Staffordshire. It’s open to people aged 16-35 and a chance to meet fellow young pro-life leaders, be inspired and have fun. Register at https://www.spuc.org.uk/youthconference2022

Sponsorship is available to enable young people in our Archdiocese to attend. Please contact the Archdiocesan Pro-Life Office: prolife@staned.org.uk

Read the newsletter for 16th January (pdf)

The Baptism Of The Lord– Year C

2022 Diploma in Catechetics: Grow Deeper in Your Catholic Faith!

The online Archdiocesan Diploma in Catechetics program – 36 one-hour courses over 1 year – is back by popular demand after a successful first year which saw almost 150 people graduate! The courses are held on Zoom on Thursdays at 7:30pm beginning in January and will all be recorded so if you’re not able to attend in the evenings, you can watch them at your convenience. Here's what students from our 2021 session said about the course:

“A life changer, I learnt so much and it really deepened my faith. I can’t recommend it enough.” - Margo Saliba, Edinburgh

“I recommend this course to anyone who will listen; it has given me a thirst for knowledge and, hopefully, has made me a better person.” - Peter McCaffery, Cowdenbeath

“Inspirational. You won’t want to miss a session. Please give it a go - it’s a course for everyone.” - Liz Brown, Edinburgh

“Really enjoyed this and would recommend it to anyone.” - Anne Collins, Kilsyth

“Our faith explored. Go deeper with this highly enjoyable course.” - Janice Mary Evans, Falkirk.

“As a ‘cradle Catholic,’ this diploma helped to enable me to develop my Faith and deepen my understanding of scripture.” - Gwen Gemmell, Dunfermline

“So interesting that I wish there was a 2nd year of study.” - Anne Marie, Linlithgow.

“The diploma in catechetics is invaluable, there is no one who I wouldn't recommend this course to!” - Sarah Schuler, Edinburgh

When does the Diploma in Catechetics start? We begin 27th January and finish 8th December, with a break over the summer holidays.

How do I sign up? You can register through Eventbrite here: bit.ly/DiplomaCatechetics2022

More details? Contact SrAnna.Marie@staned.org.uk for information about the course and about bursaries, student rates, and reductions.

What’s involved? Each week, content is delivered via Zoom from a variety of instructors from all over the Archdiocese. After each module, participants have a one-to-one interview with Sr Anna Marie, the course leader, to go over the content and revisit questions they may have.

Over 60s Parishioners: Come by for a Chat with Graham Burnett at Coffee Saints

We welcome all over 60’s parishioners to come by Coffee Saints to meet Graham Burnett, the new ‘Engagement Officer’ for St Mary’s – just pop in enjoy a chat with Graham over a FREE cuppa and cake! He is in Coffee Saints every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am-4pm. Do stop in or contact Graham: graham@grassmarket.org 07568 202 547 to arrange a time to meet. (Home/garden/outside visits also available if preferred) More info on FREE mini-bus trips and groups to follow.

Rite of Illumination (P4) – Next Sunday at 9am & 10.30am

On Sunday the 16th of January we welcome the children preparing for their First Confession for the Rite of Illumination, which will take place at 9am in the Cathedral and at 10.30am in Ravelston.

Children’s Catechism Classes for First Communion and Confirmation

Classes resume today in preparation for First Confession. Soon we’ll be getting ready to start preparations for First Holy Communion and Confirmation. First Communion is open to all children in Primary 4 and above and will begin with a meeting for all parents on Monday 21st February. For children aged Primary 7 and above, there will be an opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation, with an introductory meeting for parents on Monday 24th January. Prior registration is essential! Please do so online here:

First Holy Communion: https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/first-communion

Confirmation: https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/confirmation

Parish Bible Study: Resumes Monday 17th January 2022, 7pm

The online parish Bible Study will resume next Monday the 17th of January at 7pm. Each week, the group meets to discuss in advance the upcoming Sunday Scripture readings, to try to unpack their deeper meaning and reflect together on how these readings apply to our everyday lives. This year, as well as continuing these weekly meetings online, we’d like to start also organising monthly, in-person talks by invited speakers on different books or themes of the Bible. Watch this space for more details! To sign-up or to find out more, please email frjamie@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Young Adults Group: Tuesday 18th January

The Cathedral Young Adults Group offers opportunities for young people aged between 18 and 35 to learn more about their faith and build strong friendships with other young Catholics in the city. The group meets every Tuesday evening at 7pm at 63 York Place for a talk by an invited speaker, followed by conversation, prayer and a visit to one of the local pubs. This semester, the talks will focus on the life and thought of St John Paul II, beginning on Tuesday 18th January. Look out for more details in upcoming newsletters, as well as on the Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/520992961362929/

Synod Events for our Deanery – 19th and 26th January

The Archdiocese is in “a period of consultation and discernment” for the local church in which Pope Francis has asked for the voice of the laity to be heard. To help make this happen a Holy Hour and synodal meeting are being hosted in each deanery. For our St. Giles’ Deanery, the Holy Hour will be at 7:30pm on Wednesday, 19th January in the Cathedral and the synodal meeting will be at 7:00pm on Wednesday, 26th January, in 63 York Place. All are welcome to attend.

2022 Marriage Preparation Courses: 29th January, 10am – 5pm

Congratulations to all recently engaged couples in the parish! To help to accompany them in their preparations for this important vocation, the Cathedral organises four courses each year, featuring presentations, testimonies and workshops led by married couples from the parish. The next course will take place on Saturday 29th January from 10am-5pm, with future courses running on the 18th of June and 27th of August. Although priority is given to Cathedral / Ravelston parishioners, this course is also open to people from other parishes and dioceses – feel free to spread the word! To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Have You Received the Sacrament of Confirmation?

If you are an adult who has never received the Sacrament of Confirmation, do consider joining the Cathedral’s preparation course during Lent this year with a view to Confirmation at the Easter Vigil on Saturday, 16th April 2022. To register, contact cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Christian Meditation Group

Experience how Christian Meditation with others leads you to the joy of God´s healing. We meditate in person at 63 York Place on Fridays at 7.30 p.m. Afterwards you are welcome for refreshments and to socialize. On Wednesdays at 7 p.m. we meditate online on Zoom. The up-to-date schedule is here: https://www.meetup.com/Christian-Meditation-Group/events/ Contact info - mobile: 0771 777 2614 Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1cuO5QJ

Want to become Catholic? RCIA Tuesdays 7pm at Cathedral House

Do you know someone not baptized or baptized in a non-Catholic Christian tradition, who is thirsting for what it means to become Catholic? Do you know someone already Catholic who hasn’t received Confirmation? The Cathedral’s Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) group is a place to ask questions and deepen your journey of faith in preparation for the sacraments of initiation. After Christmas, meetings will resume every Tuesday, 7:00pm-8:30pm at Cathedral House until to Easter, with a few sessions after Easter. To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

To find out more about the truth and beauty of the Catholic faith and making the journey to full communion with the Catholic Church, visit The Coming Home Network, https://chnetwork.org/

Free Disabled Parking in St. James Centre Car Park

If you have a disabled badge, drive to Mass and would like to use the St. James’ Car Park in the future, please fill out a form at the back of Church and return it to the Office. For those who have sent in their details, the Car Park will have free disabled parking on Sundays only 8:30am-1:30pm. Outside of those hours, normal parking fees will apply. Questions? Email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Fundraising Pledge Board for Donations to Rewire Parish House

The Ravelston Parish House and Rooms have an electrical circuit which is over 50 years old and which needs to be replaced urgently. The capacity of the circuit needs to be increased and we also need to install mains-wired interlinked smoke alarms (by Feb 2022). In summary, to avoid the accident which is waiting to happen and make the house and rooms safe and legally compliant we need to rewire. We have put out to tender and this will cost in the region of £19,000. In order to progress this project, therefore, we need to do some fundraising! We have created a pledge board to allow parishioners to donate towards a particular item. For details of how to donate and to view the pledge board, please click here.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (Ages 3-7)

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is offered, free of charge, to children ages 3-7 at St. Columba’s Parish, 9 Upper Gray St, Edinburgh EH9 1SN. Children from any parish are welcome to take part. This Montessori-based method of Catechesis focuses on the development of the child and the unique relationship children have with Jesus, the Good Shepherd. Sessions for children ages 3-4 are held Tuesday mornings from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and sessions for children ages 5-7 are held on Friday afternoons. Please contact Sister Anna Marie McGuan, RSM at SrAnna.Marie@staned.org.uk to register your child.

Free Mini-Course on Family Life and Love: Monday, 10th January, 1:30pm

A free three-week mini-course about family life and love in God's plan of salvation is offered explaining Pope Francis’ 2016 Apostolic Exhortation “The Joy of Love” (Amoris Laetitia). The course begins on Zoom on Monday, 10 January 1:30pm led by Sr Anna Marie, RSM, the Archdiocese’s Catechetics Advisor, and Fr Nick Welsh, vice rector of the Scots College in Rome. Register and attend the live sessions or watch the recording anytime: https://bit.ly/joyoflove2022

Way of St. Andrew’s Local Pilgrimage Opportunities

Explore Scotland on our many great pilgrimage trails with scenery from coastal to moorland, with opportunity for reflection or prayer. To get started try the mini-pilgrimage to Rosslyn Chapel 13 km south of Edinburgh. All details, contact information and help from http://www.thewayofstandrews.com/

Read the newsletter for 9th January (pdf)

Solemnity Of The Epiphany – Year C

Christmas Thank You!

Sincere thanks to everyone who made sure that the Christmas celebrations continued with their usual beauty and solemnity – even in spite of the last-minute quarantine of the Cathedral clergy! A special word of thanks to all those who cleaned and prepared the church, arranged the flowers, volunteered to read and assist in the distribution of Holy Communion. The pass-keepers ensured a warm (and safe!) welcome to all comers, the altar servers did their duties with their usual grace and decorum, while our wonderful singers and musicians gave the angelic chorus a ‘run for their money!’ Particular thanks to the Archbishop and visiting clergy, who came from near and far to ensure that the published Christmas Mass schedule was able to be fulfilled without change. Thank you!

The priests of Cathedral House missed you very much indeed over Christmas but are all safe and healthy, very grateful for all your gifts, cards and kindness and looking forward very much to wishing you a ‘Merry Christmas’ in person in the coming days!

New Year’s Resolution: Grow Deeper in Your Catholic Faith

This coming year, why not make a resolution to learn more about your Catholic faith? A wonderful way to do this would be sign up for the Archdiocesan Diploma in Catechetics. This course is back by popular demand after a successful first year which saw almost one-hundred and fifty people graduate. The brains behind the course is our very own Sister Anna Marie McGuan, RSM. She and a range of guest speakers bring you online lectures each Thursday, guided reading, one-to-one support, retreats and supplementary courses on Zoom and YouTube.

Still not sure? Here's what students from our 2021 session said about the course:

- “A life changer, I learnt so much and it really deepened my faith. I can’t recommend it enough.”

- “The diploma in catechetics is invaluable, there is no one who I wouldn't recommend this course to!”

- “Our faith explored. Go deeper with this highly enjoyable course.”

- “Inspirational. You won’t want to miss a session. Please give it a go - it’s a course for everyone.”

- “As a ‘cradle Catholic,’ this diploma helped to enable me to develop my Faith and deepen my understanding of scripture.”

- “Really enjoyed this and would recommend it to anyone. The classes are made very welcoming and inspiring, by the wonderful speakers. The family of God has a whole new meaning now. Thank you to all involved.”

- "The speakers' commitment, knowledge and delivery of the Catholic faith has been illuminating and transformative throughout a period that has challenged many of us. Sincere thanks."

The Diploma in Catechetics lasts one year, begins in January 2022 and costs £200. Registration is now open at bit.ly/DiplomaCatechetics2022

Children’s Catechism Classes for First Communion and Confirmation

After a well-earned Christmas break, classes in preparation for First Confession resume next Sunday (9th January). Later in the New Year, we’ll be getting ready to start preparations for First Holy Communion and Confirmation. First Communion is open to all children in Primary 4 and above and will begin with a meeting for all parents on Monday 21st February. For children aged Primary 7 and above, there will be an opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation, with an introductory meeting for parents on Monday 24th January. Prior registration is essential! Please do so online here:

First Holy Communion: https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/first-communion

Confirmation: https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/confirmation

2022 Marriage Preparation Courses: 29th January, 10am – 5pm

We’ve received lots of happy news of couples in the parish getting engaged to be married over the Christmas period: prayers and congratulations to you all! To help to accompany them in their preparations for this important vocation, the Cathedral organises four courses each year, featuring presentations, testimonies and workshops led by married couples from the parish. The next course will take place on Saturday 29th January from 10am-5pm, with future courses running on the 18th of June and 27th of August. Although priority is given to Cathedral / Ravelston parishioners, this course is also open to people from other parishes and dioceses – feel free to spread the word! To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Don’t forget that to be married in a Catholic church (even outside of the parish) it’s essential that you let the parish office know that you’re getting married so that the necessary paperwork can be submitted in time (at least six months prior to the intended marriage date).

Parish Bible Study: Resumes Monday 17th January 2022, 7pm

After a long Christmas break, the online parish Bible Study will resume on Monday the 17th of January at 7pm. Each week, the group meets to discuss in advance the upcoming Sunday Scripture readings, to try to unpack their deeper meaning and reflect together on how these readings apply to our everyday lives. This year, as well as continuing these weekly meetings online, we’d like to start also organising monthly, in-person talks by invited speakers on different books or themes of the Bible. Watch this space for more details! To sign-up or to find out more, please email frjamie@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Young Adults Group: New Series of Talks for Spring 2022

The Cathedral Young Adults Group, which offers opportunities for young people aged between 18 and 35 to learn more about their faith and build strong friendships with other young Catholics in the city. The group meets every Tuesday evening at 7pm at 63 York Place for a talk by an invited speaker, followed by conversation, prayer and a visit to one of the local pubs. This semester, the talks will focus on the life and thought of St John Paul II, beginning on Tuesday 18th January. Look out for more details in upcoming newsletters, as well as on the Facebook group

Graham Burnett: New Engagement Officer for Over 60s Community

Together with the Grassmarket Project, we are delighted to announce the appointment of a new ‘Engagement Officer’ for St Mary’s Coffee Saints café to work with the over 60’s community here. His name is Graham Burnett. His background is Occupational Therapy & from New Year onwards he will be based in Coffee Saints most days (times to be confirmed). He will be running small group activities & trips (Covid permitting). To contact Graham: graham@grassmarket.org 07568 202 547.

Free Disabled Parking in St. James Centre Car Park

If you have a disabled badge, drive to Mass and would like to use the St. James’ Car Park in the future, please fill out a form at the back of Church and return it to the Office. For those who have sent in their details, the Car Park will have free disabled parking on Sundays only 8:30am-1:30pm. Outside of those hours, normal parking fees will apply. Questions? Email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Thirsting for God? RCIA Meetings Tuesdays 7pm at Cathedral House

Do you know someone not baptized or baptized in a non-Catholic Christian tradition, who is thirsting for what it means to become Catholic? Do you know someone already Catholic who hasn’t received Confirmation? The Cathedral’s Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) group is a place to ask questions and deepen your journey of faith in preparation for the sacraments of initiation. After Christmas, meetings will resume every Tuesday, 7:00pm-8:30pm at Cathedral House until to Easter, with a few sessions after Easter. To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

To find out more about the truth and beauty of the Catholic faith and making the journey to full communion with the Catholic Church, visit The Coming Home Network, https://chnetwork.org/

Donations via Postal Order

We have recently received donations via postal order in the offertory collection. While we are, of course, always very grateful for all donations we receive, please be aware that we are only able to cash postal orders where they are made out to ‘St Mary’s Cathedral’. Postal orders made out to other names or other charities cannot be cashed by us without making special request to the Post Office in writing. If you wish to make a donation to a specific organization, please therefore send your payment directly to that organization to avoid unnecessary delays.

Fundraising Pledge Board for Donations to Rewire Parish Hous

The Ravelston Parish House and Rooms have an electrical circuit which is over 50 years old and which needs to be replaced urgently. The capacity of the circuit needs to be increased and we also need to install mains-wired interlinked smoke alarms (by Feb 2022). In summary, to avoid the accident which is waiting to happen and make the house and rooms safe and legally compliant we need to rewire. We have put out to tender and this will cost in the region of £19,000. We have created a pledge board to allow parishioners to donate towards a particular item. For details of how to donate and to view the pledge board, please see the parish noticeboard or contact finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Teas and Coffees: Coming Back Soon!

Because of the essential works taking place in the parish rooms, there will be no teas and coffees after Mass this Sunday 2nd January and next Sunday 9th of January at Ravelston. The Friday morning café also remains closed at this time. We look forward to these wonderful opportunities for building community resuming in the near future!

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (Ages 3-7)

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is offered, free of charge, to children ages 3-7 at St. Columba’s Parish, 9 Upper Gray St, Edinburgh EH9 1SN. Children from any parish are welcome to take part. This Montessori-based method of Catechesis focuses on the development of the child and the unique relationship children have with Jesus, the Good Shepherd. Sessions for children ages 3-4 are held Tuesday mornings from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and sessions for children ages 5-7 are held on Friday afternoons. Please contact Sister Anna Marie McGuan, RSM at SrAnna.Marie@staned.org.uk for more information or to register your child.

Amoris Laetitia – The Joy of Love: Monday, 10th January

There will be three talks explaining this important document, an apostolic exhortation by Pope Francis, beginning 10 January and led by Sr Anna Marie, the Archdiocese’s Catechetics Advisor, and Fr Nick Welsh, vice rector of the Scots College in Rome. Details to follow soon.

Day For Musicians and Singers: 22nd January

Music Day. This takes place on Saturday 22 January at the Gillis Centre, Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, 10:00am-3:30pm. The theme is Liturgical Music Making in a Post-Pandemic World. The day is open to everyone, especially those involved in leading and playing music, as well as singers. Details to follow soon.

Read the newsletter for 2nd January (pdf)

Fourth Sunday Of Advent – Year C

Advent 2021

Rorate Mass by Candlelight at the Cathedral: Thursday 23rd December

This week we have our last of the popular candlelit Advent Masses at the Cathedral on Thursday night at 7:00pm — a beautiful way to prepare for the birth of Jesus Christ our Lord!

Christmas Masses 2021

St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral

Christmas Eve, Friday 24th December: 9am Mass (Polish), 10am Mass, 6pm Mass, 9pm Mass (Polish),

11.15pm Carols and Readings, followed by midnight Mass

Christmas Day, Saturday 25th December: 10.30am Mass, 12noon (Polish) Mass

6pm (Polish) Mass

St Andrew’s Church, Ravelston

Christmas Eve, Friday 24th December: 6pm Mass

Christmas Day, Saturday 25th December: 10.30am Mass

The Christmas Mass schedule is available here

Final Advent Talk: Faith, Hope & Love – Monday, 20th December

Find out more about the season of Advent and the virtues of Faith, Hope and Love in a series of online talks held each Monday in Advent. Hosted by the Archdiocese, the final talk is on Monday 20 December 7:30pm-8:00pm, with Sr Anna Marie McGuan. To join visit: bit.ly/AdventTalk (or webinar ID: 891 8951 4801). All talks are recorded and available to watch on YouTube: bit.ly/ArchYouTube

Advent: Rosary for Life with Archbishop Cushley – Tuesday, 21st December

Parishioners and clergy from across the Archdiocese having been praying the Rosary online each Tuesday throughout Advent for unborn children, their mothers and all Pro-Life intentions. The final Rosary is at 7:45pm this Tuesday (21 December) and includes a reflection from Archbishop Cushley. Event on Zoom, register at bit.ly/21DecRosary

Limited Supply of 2022 Cathedral Diaries

We’ve the very last of the 2022 Cathedral diaries left. With all the holy days marked and prayers and quotes from saints included in each month, as well as lovely artwork and meditations, this diary will be your spiritual companion all year round. Priced at a very reasonable £10 each, don’t start 2022 without it!

Children’s Catechism

Classes for First Communion (P4 and above) and Confirmation (P7 and above)

In 2022, the First Confession class returns on 9th January. The First Holy Communion class (P4 & above) starts on 27th Feb at 9:30am, with its parents’ meeting on 21st Feb. The parents’ meeting for the Confirmation class (P7 & above) is on 24th Jan with classes starting 30th January. If you have not already done so, please register your child for First Holy Communion (P4 and above): https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/first-communion or Confirmation (P7 and above): https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/confirmation

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd for Children Ages 3-7 at St. Columba’s Parish

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is offered, free of charge, to children ages 3-7 at St. Columba’s Parish, 9 Upper Gray St, Edinburgh EH9 1SN. Children from any parish are welcome to take part. This Montessori-based method of Catechesis focuses on the development of the child and the unique relationship children have with Jesus, the Good Shepherd. Sessions for children ages 3-4 are held Tuesday mornings from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and sessions for children ages 5-7 are held on Friday afternoons. Please contact Sister Anna Marie McGuan, RSM at SrAnna.Marie@staned.org.uk for more information or to register your child.

New Engagement Officer for Over 60s Community.

Together with the Grassmarket Project, we welcome the appointment of Graham Burnett as the new ‘Engagement Officer’ for St Mary’s Coffee Saints café to work with the over 60’s community here. Graham’s background is Occupational Therapy & from New Year onwards he will be based in Coffee Saints most days (times to be confirmed). He will be running small group activities & trips (Covid permitting). Contact: graham@grassmarket.org 07568 202 547.

Marriage Preparation Courses

If you’re planning to get married in 2022, please contact Fr Jamie frjamie@stmaryscathedral.co.uk as soon as possible to book onto our upcoming Marriage Preparation courses 29th January and 18th June.

Holy Innocents' Mass with Archbishop Cushley at Gillis Centre 28th December

Join Archbishop Cushley and priests of the Archdiocese to pray for unborn children, their mothers and all who care for them on Tuesday, 28th December at 12noon. Refreshments and a glass of wine available afterwards. Book your space: https://bit.ly/InnocentsMass21

This year Stanton Healthcare, the new pregnancy support service, will have a table in the Hall afterwards to provide an opportunity to meet Donna Cameron, the new Executive Director, and find out about their plans.

2022 Diploma in Catechetics Begins 6th January – Concessions Available!

Get ready to explore the richness and depth of the Catholic faith with course leader Sr Anna Marie McGuan, RSM from the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh. She and a range of guest speakers bring you online lectures each Thursday, guided reading, one-to-one support, retreats and supplementary courses on Zoom and YouTube. The Diploma in Catechetics lasts one year, begins in January 2022 and costs £200. Students £150. Concessions available. Register at bit.ly/DiplomaCatechetics2022

Free Disabled Parking in St. James Centre Car Park

If you have a disabled badge, drive to Mass and would like to use the St. James’ Car Park in the future, please fill out a form at the back of Church and return it to the Office. For those who have sent in their details, the Car Park will have free disabled parking on Sundays only 8:30am-1:30pm. Outside of those hours, normal parking fees will apply. Questions? Email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Thirsting for God? RCIA Meetings Tuesdays 7pm at Cathedral House

Do you know someone not baptized or baptized in a non-Catholic Christian tradition, who is thirsting for what it means to become Catholic? Do you know someone already Catholic who hasn’t received Confirmation? The Cathedral’s Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) group is a place to ask questions and deepen your journey of faith in preparation for the sacraments of initiation. After Christmas, meetings will resume every Tuesday, 7:00pm-8:30pm at Cathedral House until to Easter, with a few sessions after Easter. To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

To find out more about the truth and beauty of the Catholic faith and making the journey to full communion with the Catholic Church, visit The Coming Home Network, https://chnetwork.org/

Rorate Mass by Candlelight at Ravelston on Monday 20th December

Our beautiful and popular candlelit Advent Masses conclude on Monday at 7pm at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. Do come along and bring your children to this beautiful liturgy of Advent!

Fundraising Pledge Board for Donations to Rewire Parish House

The Ravelston Parish House and Rooms have an electrical circuit which is over 50 years old and which needs to be replaced urgently. The capacity of the circuit needs to be increased and we also need to install mains-wired interlinked smoke alarms (by Feb 2022). In summary, to avoid the accident which is waiting to happen and make the house and rooms safe and legally compliant we need to rewire. We have put out to tender and this will cost in the region of £19,000.

We have created a pledge board to allow parishioners to donate towards a particular item. For details of how to donate and to view the pledge board, please see the parish noticeboard or contact finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

You can find out more about the project and how to donate here

No Daily Masses at Ravelston between Christmas and New Year

Please note that there will be no daily Masses at Ravelston in the week between Christmas and New Year. Daily Mass will resume on Monday 3rd January.

Friday Café Closed Until Early February

Please note the Friday Cafe at Ravelston is closed now until early February. Have a peaceful Christmas.

Assisted Suicide Bill consultation by 22 December - Just Say No’

Please make a quick response to the public consultation on a bill proposed by Liam McArthur MSP to legalise assisted suicide in Scotland. The consultation is running until Wednesday 22 December 2021. It only takes 10 minutes – just tick the boxes and provide short answers. If you have more time you can add text, but any response is better than none. There have been 6,000 responses so far. To complete the form and find information visit: https://www.spuc.org.uk/assisteddyingscotlandconsultation

Craig Lodge House of Prayer Welcomes Applications for Mission House 2022 -23

Want to join a community of young people striving towards holiness and mission? We are pleased to be welcoming applications for our 2022-23 Mission House. Craig Lodge's new Mission House offers a nine-month programme, for anyone between the ages of 18-30, that sets out to form spirit-filled evangelizers for the renewal of the Church. The year includes prayer, community, mission, study, service and worship. To learn more visit: https://www.craiglodge.org/

Save the dates

Amoris Laetitia – The Joy of Love: Monday, 10th January

There will be three talks explaining this important document, an apostolic exhortation by Pope Francis, beginning 10 January and led by Sr Anna Marie, the Archdiocese’s Catechetics Advisor, and Fr Nick Welsh, vice rector of the Scots College in Rome. Details to follow soon.

Music Day: Saturday, 22nd January

Music Day takes place on Saturday 22 January at the Gillis Centre, Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, 10:00am-3:30pm. The theme is `Liturgical Music Making in a Post-Pandemic World.’ The day is open to everyone, especially those involved in leading and playing music, as well as singers. Details to follow soon.

Read the newsletter for 19th December (pdf)

Third Sunday Of Advent – Year C

Advent 2021

Rorate Mass by Candlelight at the Cathedral: Thursdays 16th & 23rd December

We continue our beautiful and popular candlelit Advent Masses at the Cathedral on Thursday nights at 7:00pm. With sacred music to help us sing praise to God and joining together at Mass celebrated by flickering candlelight this is a beautiful way to prepare for the birth of Jesus Christ our Lord. Do bring your children and come along to pray well and make your hearts ready for the Lord at Christmas.

Limited Supply of 2022 Cathedral Diaries— Shop Online by 18th December!

We’ve only a limited supply left for the 2022 Cathedral Diaries -- don’t miss your chance to purchase this spiritual and practical gift for Christmas! All proceeds support the Cathedral. With all the holy days marked, and prayers and quotes from saints included in each month, as well as lovely artwork and meditations, the diary is thoughtful and meaningful present which anyone would be pleased to receive. Priced at a very reasonable £10 each. Buy online by Saturday, 18 December to arrive in time for Christmas. There will be no in-person sales at the Cathedral this weekend so make sure you get your copy online instead. Hurry while stocks last!

Kathedral Knits Christmas Gifts to Support the Cathedral

On Sunday morning, knitted goods for Christmas will be available for sale in the Octagon until after Noon Mass by our own wonderful parishioner Joanna Kopystynska. The items are also available at

https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/KathedralKnits

All the profits from these sales are generously donated by Joanna to the Cathedral. These will make wonderful stocking fillers for that special someone in your life! (Especially when combined with a Cathedral diary!)

Third in a Series of Advent Talks on Faith, Hope & Love – Monday, 13th December

Find out more about the season of Advent and the virtues of Faith, Hope and Love in a series of online talks held each Monday in Advent. Hosted by the Archdiocese, the third talk is on Monday 13 December 7:30pm-8:00pm, with Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM. No registration required, simply use this link each week to join: bit.ly/AdventTalk (or webinar ID: 891 8951 4801).

Advent Rosary for Life with Fr Martin Eckersley – Tuesday, 14th December

Join parishioners and clergy from across the Archdiocese each Tuesday throughout Advent to pray for unborn children, their mothers and all Pro-Life intentions. It continues at 7:45pm this Tuesday (14 December) and includes a reflection from Fr Martin Eckersley of St Francis Xavier in Falkirk. Event on Zoom, register at bit.ly/14DecRosary

Christmas Masses 2021

St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral

Christmas Eve, Friday 24th December: 9am Mass (Polish), 10am Mass, 6pm Mass, 9pm Mass (Polish),

11.15pm Carols and Readings, followed by midnight Mass

Christmas Day, Saturday 25th December: 10.30am Mass, 12noon (Polish) Mass

6pm (Polish) Mass

St Andrew’s Church, Ravelston

Christmas Eve, Friday 24th December: 6pm Mass

Christmas Day, Saturday 25th December: 10.30am Mass

The Christmas Mass schedule is available here

Welcome to Graham Burnett, New Engagement Officer for Over 60s Community

Together with the Grassmarket Project, we are delighted to announce the appointment of a new ‘Engagement Officer’ for St Mary’s Coffee Saints café to work with the over 60’s community here. His name is Graham Burnett. His background is Occupational Therapy & from New Year onwards he will be based in Coffee Saints most days (times to be confirmed). He will be running small group activities & trips (Covid permitting). To contact Graham: graham@grassmarket.org, 07568 202 547.

2022 Children’s Catechism Classes for First Communion and Confirmation

This term's catechism classes finish today - thank you to all who attended so faithfully! In 2022, the First Confession class returns on 9th January. The First Holy Communion class (P4 & above) starts on 27th Feb at 9:30am, with its parents’ meeting on 21st Feb. The parents meeting for the Confirmation class (P7 & above) is on 24th Jan with classes starting 30th January. If you have not already done so, please register your child for First Holy Communion (P4 and above): https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/first-communion or Confirmation (P7 and above): https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/confirmation

2022 Marriage Preparation Courses

If you’re planning to get married next year, please contact Fr Jamie, frjamie@stmaryscathedral.co.uk as soon as possible to book onto our upcoming Marriage Preparation courses 29th January and 18th June.

Registration Now Open for Diploma in Catechetics 2022!

Get ready to explore the richness and depth of the Catholic faith with course leader Sr Anna Marie McGuan, RSM from the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh. She and a range of guest speakers bring you online lectures each Thursday, guided reading, one-to-one support, retreats and supplementary courses on Zoom and YouTube. The Diploma in Catechetics lasts one year, begins in January 2022 and costs £200. Registration is now open at bit.ly/DiplomaCatechetics2022

Chapter Mass with Archbishop Cushley – Tuesday 14th December

Archbishop Cushley will celebrate Mass with the Cathedral’s Chapter of Canons on Tuesday, 14th December at 12:45pm. Six priests will be inducted into the Metropolitan Chapter of Canons at the start of Mass: Fr. Jeremy Bath, Msgr. Patrick Burke, Fr. Jock Dalrymple, Fr. Brian Gowans, Fr. Kenneth Owens, and Fr. James Tracey.

Parish Volunteers – Safeguarding Training Online Saturday 18th December

Online Safeguarding Training is available for parish volunteers at 2pm on Saturday, 18th December. Safeguarding Training currently only needs to be done by volunteers who are in a regulated role requiring a Protecting Vulnerable Group form. Please book direct with Callum Timms by email at Callum.Timms@staned.org.uk. Please also provide your parish name and role when booking. For details visit, https://archedinburgh.org/administration/safeguarding-training/

Legion of Mary – Tuesdays at 11am

The parish Legion of Mary group meets on Tuesdays at 11:00am in 63 York Place. Please come along and join us! The Legion of Mary seeks to help its members grow in holiness through devotion to Our Lady.

Donations via Postal Order

We have recently received donations via postal order in the offertory collection. While we are, of course, always very grateful for all donations we receive, please be aware that we are only able to cash postal orders where they are made out to ‘St Mary’s Cathedral’. Postal orders made out to other names or other charities cannot be cashed by us without making special request to the Post Office in writing. If you wish to make a donation to a specific organization, please therefore send your payment directly to that organization to avoid unnecessary delays.

Rorate Mass by Candlelight at Ravelston: Mondays 13th & 20th December

Our beautiful and popular candlelit Advent Masses continue on Mondays at 7pm at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. Do come along and bring your children to these beautiful liturgies of Advent!

No Thursday Masses at Ravelston until 6th January

Please note that there will be no Thursday Masses at Ravelston through end of December. The 6pm Mass will resume on Thursday 6th January.

Special Collection Today for Rewiring of the Parish House in Ravelston

The Ravelston Parish House and Rooms have an electrical circuit which is over 50 years old and which needs to be replaced urgently. The capacity of the circuit needs to be increased and we also need to install mains-wired interlinked smoke alarms (by Feb 2022). In summary, to avoid the accident which is waiting to happen and make the house and rooms safe and legally compliant we need to rewire. We have put out to tender and this will cost in the region of £19,000. In order to progress this project, therefore, we need to do some fundraising! As a first step, we will have a special collection here in Ravelston next week after Mass. Please try to be generous!

‘Beautifully Told’ Podcast: ‘To Jesus Through Mary’

Listen to the new Catholic Truth Society podcast ‘Beautifully Told’, during your morning commute, as you cook dinner, or while out for a walk. The newest episode is about how we can reflect on Mary to help us on our Advent journey and try to imitate her as we prepare for Christmas. To listen visit https://anchor.fm/beautifully-told

Mary’s Meals Double the Love

Through Mary’s Meals’ Double The Love campaign, donations will be doubled by the UK government, up to £1.6 million, until 31 January 2022! Just £15.90 is all it takes to feed two children for a whole school year! To donate, please visit https://www.marysmeals.org.uk/doublethelove

Scottish Catholic Magazine – Just £2 per copy!

Look for the next exciting edition of the new Scottish Catholic magazine in the Octagon at £2 a copy. Or subscribe at https://www.scottishcatholic.com/product/print-subscription/ (due to postage costs this is a little more expensive than getting it in the parish!)

Read the newsletter for 12th December (pdf)

Second Sunday Of Advent – Year C

Advent 2021

Rorate Mass by Candlelight at the Cathedral: Thursdays 9th, 16th, 23rd December

This week we begin our beautiful and popular candlelit Advent Masses at the Cathedral on Thursday nights at 7:00pm. The Mass is celebrated accompanied by flickering candlelight in an otherwise dark church with beautiful music to help us lift up our hearts to God. These are lovely occasions – do bring your children and come along to prepare well for Christmas.

2022 Cathedral Diary Only £10 —a Spiritual and Practical Gift for Christmas!

The solution to all your Christmas gift problems is the 2022 Cathedral Diary with all proceeds supporting the Cathedral! It’s spiritual and practical with all the holy days marked, and prayers and quotes from saints included in each month! With lovely artwork and meditations the diary is thoughtful and meaningful present which anyone would be pleased to receive. Priced at a very reasonable £10 each. Hurry while stocks last!

Kathedral Knits Christmas Gifts to Support the Cathedral

On Sunday morning, knitted goods for Christmas will be available for sale in the Octagon until after Noon Mass by our own wonderful parishioner Joanna Kopystynska. The items are also available at https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/KathedralKnits

All the profits from these sales are generously donated by Joanna to the Cathedral. These will make wonderful stocking fillers for that special someone in your life! (Especially when combined with a Cathedral diary!)

Monday Advent Talks with Canon Hugh White: Virtues of Faith, Hope & Love

Find out more about the season of Advent and the virtues of Faith, Hope and Love in a series of online 30-minute talks held each Monday in Advent. Hosted by the Archdiocese, the second talk is on Monday 6 December 7:30pm-8:00pm, led by Canon Hugh White. No registration required, simply use this link each week to join: bit.ly/AdventTalk (or webinar ID: 891 8951 4801).

You can watch the first talk from Monday 29 November here: https://archedinburgh.org/event-tonight-get-inspired-in-advent/

Tuesday Advent Rosary for Life with Fr. Bobby Taylor

Join parishioners and clergy from across the Archdiocese each Tuesday throughout Advent to pray for unborn children, their mothers and all Pro-Life intentions. It continues this Tuesday (7 December) at 7:45pm and includes a reflection from Fr Bobby Taylor who is based in Rome. Event on Zoom, register at https://bit.ly/7DecRosary

Christmas Masses 2021

St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral

Christmas Eve, Friday 24th December: 9am Mass (Polish), 10am Mass, 6pm Mass, 9pm Mass (Polish),

11.15pm Carols and Readings, followed by midnight Mass

Christmas Day, Saturday 25th December: 10.30am Mass, 12noon (Polish) Mass

6pm (Polish) Mass

St Andrew’s Church, Ravelston

Christmas Eve, Friday 24th December: 6pm Mass

Christmas Day, Saturday 25th December: 10.30am Mass

2022 Marriage Preparation Courses

If you’re planning to get married next year, please contact Fr Jamie (frjamie@stmaryscathedral.co.uk) as soon as possible to book onto our upcoming Marriage Preparation courses 29th January and 18th June.

Thank you!

Thank you very much to so many of our parishioners at the Cathedral and St Andrew’s for the fantastic response to our request for Christmas gifts for the children of prisoners in Edinburgh (Saughton) Prison. These are very much appreciated by the prisoners as it allows them to give their children a gift at Christmas. Your continued kindness and generosity are very much appreciated.

Also…..Missio Scotland wrote to express thanks for a generous response to the special collection for World Mission Sunday on 24th October: “Many thanks for your recent cheques for £1492.97 from St Mary’s Cathedral and £291.13 from St Andrew’s Church in relation to Mission Sunday. It is very much appreciated, especially during these difficult times.”

Volunteers Needed for All Cathedral Weekend Masses

Volunteers are needed to assist at each weekend Mass at the Cathedral to help with welcoming, handing out newsletters and arranging people to help with the collection and to bring up the offertory gifts. To volunteer, please e-mail Elizabeth Andrews, elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com

Restoration of Sunday Obligation

Now that our churches are fully open once more, the Bishops of Scotland have decided that the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy days of Obligation can now be resumed. This will take effect on Sunday 2 January 2022. The obligation does not bind those in ill health or those otherwise impeded from attending Mass, nor those showing symptoms of Coronavirus.

Rorate Mass by Candlelight at Ravelston: Mondays 6th, 13th, 20th December

This week we begin our beautiful and popular candlelit Advent Masses on Mondays at 7pm at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. Do come along and bring your children to these beautiful liturgies of Advent!

Rewiring of the Parish House in Ravelston

The Ravelston Parish House and Rooms have an electrical circuit which is over 50 years old and which needs to be replaced urgently. The capacity of the circuit needs to be increased and we also need to install mains-wired interlinked smoke alarms (by Feb 2022). In summary, to avoid the accident which is waiting to happen and make the house and rooms safe and legally compliant we need to rewire. We have put out to tender and this will cost in the region of £19,000. In order to progress this project, therefore, we need to do some fundraising! As a first step, we will have a special collection here in Ravelston next week after Mass. Please try to be generous!

Children Invited to Help Assemble Parish Manger in Ravelston – Saturday, 11th December

On Saturday, 11 December 9:00am-10:00am, children are invited to help set up our parish manger for our garden Nativity Scene. The manger is constructed from flat-pack and will be great fun to assemble as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus! All helpers can enjoy a hot chocolate drink!

Blessing of the Manger Before 10:30am Mass – Sunday, 12th December

Our parish will celebrate the blessing of the parish Nativity Scene on Sunday, 12 December at approximately 10:15am, immediately after catechism class and before 10:30am Mass. All children and parishioners are invited!

Mass for Vocations on Monday, 6 December at St. Francis Xavier’s, Falkirk

Is God calling you to serve the Church as a Priest or religious Sister or Brother? Come to the First Monday Vocations Mass, 7pm on Monday 6 December at St Francis Xavier Church, 1 Hope St, Falkirk FK1 5AT and pray with others praying for vocations in our Archdiocese. Fr. Andrew Garden, Vocations Director, will celebrate the Mass and will be available after Mass or reached at vocations@staned.org.uk

For more resources, visit https://archedinburgh.org/vocations/

For women discerning religious life, contact Sr. Mirjam Hughes, FSO at religiousvocations@staned.org.uk

Mary’s Meals Double the Love

Through Mary’s Meals’ Double The Love campaign, donations will be doubled by the UK government, up to £1.6 million, until 31 January 2022! Just £15.90 is all it takes to feed two children for a whole school year! To donate, please visit https://www.marysmeals.org.uk/doublethelove

Public Consultation on Legalizing Assisted Suicide – Just Say ‘No’

A public consultation has been launched on a bill proposed by Liam McArthur MSP to legalise assisted suicide in Scotland. The consultation is running until Wednesday 22 December 2021. Please complete the questionnaire as soon as you can and encourage others to do the same. You can find a link to the consultation form and resources to help at https://www.spuc.org.uk/assisteddyingscotlandconsultation

Catholic Truth Society Advent e-Calendar

From 1st December until Christmas Day, the Catholic Truth Society is offering a special Advent Calendar by email with different gifts each day including free content from books including new titles, fun Advent activities for children, exclusive discounts and flash sales, inspiration to guide you on your Advent journey, and seasonal explanations and reflections. Sign up at https://www.ctsbooks.org/bonus-content/

The Archdiocese is Recruiting

The Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh is looking to recruit a full-time Religious Education Adviser (Primary Schools). Closing date for applications is 13 December. Details at bit.ly/vacancy_2021

Read the newsletter for 5th December here (pdf)

First Sunday Of Advent – Year C

Restoration of Sunday Obligation

In March 2020, as a result of the restrictions on public worship which followed the outbreak of Covid-19, the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays was suspended by the Bishops of Scotland. Now that our churches are fully open once more and, thanks to the hard work of our volunteers, have been shown to be safe places, the Bishops of Scotland have decided that the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy days of Obligation can now be resumed. This will take effect on Sunday 2 January 2022. In accordance with the common teaching of the Church this obligation does not bind those in ill health or those otherwise impeded from attending Mass. Nor, in the context of Covid, does it bind those showing symptoms of the virus or with underlying health conditions, or those with responsibilities for people in need of special care. You can read their full pastoral letter ‘On the Season of Christmas and the Restoration of the Mass Obligation in the Dioceses of Scotland’ at https://www.bcos.org.uk/

The 40 Hours Devotion, 28th-30th November, Watching with the Lord: An Invitation from the Lord!

On the night before he died, Jesus asked his disciples, ‘Will you not watch one hour with me?’ Over these days of Forty Hours, he extends the same invitation to us. Please be generous in coming to spend time with our Eucharistic Lord, who desires our company! Please take a moment to look at the lists in the back of the Church and prayerfully consider signing up to pray for an hour before Jesus.

Votive Candles for 40 Hours

As in previous years, we are offering three-day candles that can be dedicated to a specific prayer intention. These candles will burn continuously before the Blessed Sacrament during the three days of prayer. If you would like to dedicate a candle, they can be purchased at the back of the Church for £3 each.

40 Hours Devotion Schedule

Sunday, 28th November

12noon Solemn Mass of Exposition with Archbishop Cushley

1pm-4pm Eucharistic Adoration

4pm-5pm, guided Holy Hour with Fr. Scott Deeley

Monday, 29th November

10:30am – 7pm Eucharistic Adoration

7pm-8pm, guided Holy Hour with Msgr. Andrew McFadden

Tuesday, 30th November – Solemnity of St. Andrew

10:30am – 7pm Eucharistic Adoration

7pm-8pm, guided Holy Hour with Archbishop Cushley

Please note that the Masses on 29th-30th will be 9am (Polish), 10:00am and 12:45pm. From November 2021 to November 2022 the 40 Hours Devotion will be celebrated at parishes throughout the Archdiocese.

Rorate Mass by Candlelight at the Cathedral: Thursdays 9th, 16th, 23rd December

Next week we will begin our beautiful and popular candlelit Advent Masses at the Cathedral on Thursday nights at 7pm. The Rorate Mass is originally the name for a votive Mass of the Blessed Virgin in Advent, named by the first word of its introit (entrance antiphon): “Rorate, caeli, desuper, et nubes pluant iustum,” or “Drop down dew, O heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain down righteousness.” It is celebrated accompanied by flickering candlelight in an otherwise dark church with beautiful music to help us lift up our hearts to God. These are lovely occasions – do bring your children and come along to prepare well for Christmas.

Kathedral Knits Christmas Gifts to Support the Cathedral

On Sunday morning, knitted goods for Christmas will be available for sale in the Octagon until after Noon Mass by our own wonderful parishioner Joanna Kopystynska. The items are also available at https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/KathedralKnits

All the profits from these sales are generously donated by Joanna to the Cathedral. These will make wonderful stocking fillers for that special someone in your life! (Especially when combined with a Cathedral diary – still available for purchase!)

Nativity Blessing & Carol Service 3pm Today in St. Andrew’s Square

Archbishop Cushley, together with other Christian leaders, will bless the Nativity Scene at the Nativity Blessing & Carol Service in St Andrew Square, Edinburgh at 3pm today (Sunday). All are welcome to attend and sing carols with St Columba’s Choir and the Salvation Army Brass Band.

Parish Synod Meeting – Thursday, 2nd December

Parishes are being encouraged to host 'spiritual conversations' so people can contribute their voice to the Synod 2021-2023. The meeting for our parish will be on Thursday, 2nd December, 7pm in 63 York Place.

Just Say ‘No’ Legalizing Assisted Suicide

A public consultation has been launched on a bill proposed by Liam McArthur MSP to legalise assisted suicide in Scotland. The consultation is running until Wednesday 22 December 2021. Please complete the questionnaire as soon as you can and encourage others to do the same. You can find a link to the consultation form and resources to help at https://www.spuc.org.uk/assisteddyingscotlandconsultation

Mary’s Meals Boxes

I know that many of you collected a Mary’s Meals donation box when the charity visited us earlier this month. Any donations that you collect in these boxes can be sent directly to Mary’s Meals, along with your Gift Aid declaration (if applicable) by following the instructions on the side of the box. Some of you have passed your boxes to us and while we are able to collate the monies and submit them on your behalf, may we kindly request that you leave your box with us no later than 30th November 2021. After this date, please could you send any donations for Mary’s Meals directly to the charity. Thank you!

First Saturday Devotions

Next Saturday, 4th December, 9:30am there will be devotions to Our Lady of Fatima here in the Cathedral, followed by 10:00am Mass. All are welcome!

No Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament after 10am Mass on Saturday, 4th December

There no exposition of the Blessed Sacrament after 10:00am Mass on Saturday, 4th December due to a number of events scheduled at the Cathedral that day.

Volunteers Needed for All Cathedral Weekend Masses

Volunteers are needed to assist at each weekend Mass at the Cathedral to help with welcoming, handing out newsletters, signposting to toilet facilities, arranging people to help with the collection, special collections and arranging people to bring up the offertory gifts. We need three volunteers to serve at each Mass. To volunteer, please e-mail Elizabeth Andrews, elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com who will be in contact with you to provide further details and answer any questions. Thank you!

Rosary for Life on Zoom – Tuesday, 30 November, 7:45pm

Join Fr Kevin Douglas this Tuesday, 30 November, 7.45pm to pray for unborn children, their mothers and all Pro-Life intentions. Event on Zoom, register here: https://bit.ly/30NovRosary (scroll down to events).

Marriage Preparation Course

Congratulations to the fourteen couples from our parish who took part in our Marriage Preparation course in the parish rooms at Ravelston yesterday. Many, many thanks to the parishioners who gave their powerful testimonies of the joys of married life and practical tips for those setting out! If you’re planning to get married next year, please contact Fr Jamie as soon as possible to book onto our upcoming courses in January and June. Email Fr. Jamie to sign up frjamie@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Rorate Mass by Candlelight at Ravelston: Mondays 6th, 13th, 20th December

Next week we will begin our beautiful and popular candlelit Advent Masses on Mondays at 7pm at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. The Rorate Mass originated during the course of the Middle Ages as one of the various popular Advent devotions to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of our Hope. It is celebrated accompanied by flickering candlelight in an otherwise dark church with beautiful music to help us lift up our hearts to God. Do come along and bring your children to these beautiful liturgies of Advent.

Children Invited to Help Assemble Parish Manger – Saturday, 11th December

On Saturday, 11 December 9:00am-10:00am, children are invited to help set up the St Andrew’s, Ravelston, parish manger for our garden Nativity Scene. The manger is constructed from flat-pack and will be great fun to assemble as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus! All helpers can enjoy a hot chocolate drink!

Blessing of the Manger Before 10:30am Mass – Sunday, 12th December

Our parish will celebrate the blessing of the parish Nativity Scene on Sunday, 12 December at approximately 10:15am, immediately after catechism class and before 10:30am Mass. All children and parishioners are invited!

Jesus, the Coming King: Mid-Teens Advent Weekend, 3rd–5th December

A weekend retreat for mid teens in S2, S3 & S4 will be held at Craig Lodge with an Advent theme from Friday, 3rd December to Sunday, 5th December. This will be a weekend of teaching, prayer, Mass and some fun activities, all with the aim of bringing about new encounters with Jesus, the Coming King! To book, please email mail@craiglodge.org For more information visit, https://www.craiglodge.org/events/the-coming-king

Craig Lodge, Dalmally, Argyll, Scotland, UK, PA33 1AR, T: +44(0)1838 200216.

Free Online Courses at International Catholic University

Catholic Thinkers has started making International Catholic University courses available for free and have been adding one course per week for much of the year. To date, 29 of ICU's 55 courses are freely available on the Catholic Thinkers website: https://www.catholicthinkers.org/courses-1

Read the newsletter for 28 November (pdf)

Solemnity Of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King Of The Universe

The 40 Hours Devotion, 28th-30th November, Watching with the Lord

We need at least 2 people per hour to be present before the Blessed Sacrament throughout the celebration of 40 Hours. Please take a moment to look at the lists in the back of the Church and prayerfully consider signing up to pray for an hour before Jesus.

Votive Candles for 40 Hours

As in previous years, we are offering three-day candles that can be dedicated to a specific prayer intention. These candles will burn continuously before the Blessed Sacrament during the three days of prayer. If you would like to dedicate a candle, they can be purchased at the back of the Church for £3 each.

Video: ‘Jesus in the Eucharist and You’– Monday, 21st November

Watch the third Archdiocesan video in the series titled ‘Jesus in the Eucharist and You’ on the Archdiocesan YouTube channel bit.ly/ArchYouTube on Monday, 21st November at 7:30pm.

40 Hours Devotion Schedule

Sunday, 28th November

1pm-4pm Eucharistic Adoration

4pm-5pm, guided Holy Hour with Fr. Scott Deeley

Monday, 29th November

10:30am – 7pm Eucharistic Adoration

7pm-8pm, guided Holy Hour with Msgr. Andrew McFadden

Tuesday, 30th November – Solemnity of St. Andrew

10:30am – 7pm Eucharistic Adoration

7pm-8pm, guided Holy Hour with Archbishop Cushley

Please note that the Masses on 29th-30th will be 9am (Polish), 10:00am and 12:45pm. From November 2021 to November 2022 the 40 Hours Devotion will be celebrated at parishes throughout the Archdiocese.

Next Sunday: Kathedral Knits Christmas Gifts to Support the Cathedral

Beginning next Sunday morning, 28th November, knitted goods for Christmas will be available for sale in the Octagon until after Noon Mass by our own wonderful parishioner Joanna Kopystynska. The items are also available at https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/KathedralKnits All the profits from these sales are generously donated by Joanna to the Cathedral.

Nativity Blessing & Carol Service – Sunday, 28th November

Archbishop Cushley will bless the Nativity Scene at the Nativity Blessing & Carol Service, which takes place in St Andrew Square, Edinburgh at 3pm on Sunday 28 November. All welcome to attend and sing carols with St Columba’s Choir and the Salvation Army Brass Band.

Prisoners’ Week Prayer Service with Archbishop Cushley – Monday, 22nd November

A prayer service with Archbishop Cushley for the launch of Prisoners’ Week 2021 will take place at 7pm on Monday 22 November at the Cathedral, followed by refreshments in the Coffee Saints café. The goal of Prisoners’ Week is to encourage support for the over 7,000 incarcerated persons in Scotland. Booking is needed for this event, so please register at http://www.prisonersweek.org.uk/events

Please note there will be no 6:00pm Polish Mass that evening; Polish Mass will be at 9:00am that day instead.

Young Adults Group with Archbishop Cushley – Tuesday, 23rd November, 7pm

Don't forget that this Tuesday at 7pm, the Young Adults Group are honoured to have a visit from the Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh, Archbishop Leo Cushley. The Archbishop is looking forward to meeting the group and will speak on the title 'St Andrew: Disciple, Apostle, Patron.' As always, there will be a chance to chat over tea and coffee before the talk and to enjoy some stronger refreshments afterwards! It would be great to see you all there!

Fire Safety Training for Cathedral Volunteers – Saturday, 27th November

Fire safety training is now scheduled for 10:00 on Saturday 27th of November for all passkeeping volunteers. Please contact the parish office at cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk or 0131 556 1798 to confirm you will attend. Thank you!

Parish Synod Meeting – Thursday, 2nd December

Parishes are being encouraged to host 'spiritual conversations' so people can contribute their voice to the Synod 2021-2023. Herewith advance notice that the meeting for our parish will be on Thursday, 2nd December, 7pm in 63 York Place.

Volunteers Needed for All Cathedral Weekend Masses

Volunteers are needed to assist at each weekend Mass at the Cathedral to help with welcoming, handing out newsletters, signposting to toilet facilities, arranging people to help with the collection, special collections and arranging people to bring up the offertory gifts. We need three volunteers to serve at each Mass. To volunteer, please e-mail Elizabeth Andrews, elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com who will be in contact with you to provide further details and answer any questions. Thank you!

Rosary for Life on Zoom – Every Tuesday in Advent, 7:45pm

Join Priests of the Archdiocese online to pray the Rosary for pro-life intentions. Every Tuesday in Advent. 7.45pm on Zoom. Register at https://bit.ly/RosaryEvents (scroll down to events).

Marriage Preparation Course

Are you planning to get married next year? Please contact Fr Jamie as soon as possible to make arrangements for Marriage Preparation. While the Cathedral’s Marriage Preparation course for November is already fully booked, places are still available for the course to be held on Saturday, 29th January. Email Fr. Jamie to sign up, frjamie@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Legion of Mary – Tuesdays at 11am

The parish Legion of Mary group meets on Tuesdays at 11:00am in 63 York Place. Please come along and join us! The Legion of Mary seeks to help its members grow in holiness through devotion to Our Lady.

Cathedral Chandelier Project

As you will recall, unforeseen difficulties were encountered when the chandelier repair works were undertaken earlier this year. As the works commenced, it soon became apparent that installation of the proposed winch system was going to be more complex than the contractors had envisaged and so work stopped to review the best way forward. Our then Complex Manager, Andy Hilton, was deeply involved in the project, having taken charge of it from the outset, but as you know, he died tragically and very suddenly at the beginning of August. Consequently, this project had to be temporarily put on hold while Cathedral staff and clergy endeavoured to manage all of the day-to-day maintenance and repair issues that Andy had managed so capably up to that point. We appreciate that a few months have passed since the initial works commenced but thank you for your patience and understanding. We hope that we will soon be in a position to take this project forward once more.

Children Invited to Help Assemble Parish Manger in St Andrew’s, Ravelston – 11th December

On Saturday, 11 December 9:00am-10:00am, children are invited to help set up our parish manger for the St Andrew’s, Ravelston garden Nativity Scene. The manger is constructed from flat-pack and will be great fun to assemble as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus! All helpers can enjoy a hot chocolate drink!

Blessing of the Manger Before 10:30am Mass – 12th December

St Andrew’s will celebrate the blessing of the parish Nativity Scene on Sunday, 12 December at approximately 10:15am, immediately after catechism class and before 10:30am Mass. All children and parishioners are invited!

Webinar for Red Wednesday: Stop Persecution of Christians, 24th November

Watch the Red Wednesday Webinar on 24th November 7:30pm for the people of Scotland to stand together and shine a spotlight on the persecution of Christians and other faith minorities. The event will be livestreamed from Scottish Parliament and hosted by John Mason MSP. Aid to the Church in Need’s John Newton will present the ‘Hear Her Cries’ report, highlighting exploitation of Christian and other faith minority women and girls. Sign up for the webinar at https://acnuk.org/redwednesday-events/

Jesus, the Coming King: Mid-Teens Advent Weekend, 3rd–5th December

A weekend retreat for mid teens in S2, S3 & S4 will be held at Craig Lodge with an Advent theme from Friday, 3rd December to Sunday, 5th December. This will be a weekend of teaching, prayer, Mass and some fun activities, all with the aim of bringing about new encounters with Jesus, the Coming King! To book, please email mail@craiglodge.org

For more information visit, https://www.craiglodge.org/events/the-coming-king Craig Lodge, Dalmally, Argyll, Scotland, UK, PA33 1AR, T: +44(0)1838 200216.

Annual Mass Attendance Census

The Archdiocese’s Annual Mass Attendance Census will be taken next weekend Saturday, 27th November and Sunday, 28th November.

Funeral of Daisy Sanderson

The funeral of the late Daisy Sanderson, who used to read at the 12.45pm Mass, will take place at St Margaret Mary's Church, Granton, on Wednesday 24th November at 10am. May she rest in peace!

Special Collection this Weekend for Catholic Education

I’m afraid there is (yet) another special collection this week for Scottish Catholic Education Service. Thank you!