Solemnity of Pentecost - Year C

Queen’s Jubilee Celebration

On Sunday, His Grace, the Archbishop, will celebrate a special Mass of Thanksgiving at the Cathedral at Noon on the occasion of the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen. We will finish with a toast on the steps of the Cathedral after the Mass. If you can make it – do come along to toast the Queen on this historic occasion.

First Holy Communions

Congratulations to all the children who received their First Holy Communion at Masses on Saturday, 4th June at the Cathedral and St. Andrew’s, Ravelston! A big thank you to the catechists, teachers and parents who helped prepare them to receive Our Lord Jesus Christ in the Blessed Sacrament for the first time!

Young Adults Group – This Tuesday at 7pm

It's been a while since our last series of talks concluded, and a few of you have been asking about having some meetings of the Young Adults Group before the summer. By popular demand, Fr Patrick has agreed to give a series of three talks on personal prayer, giving some ideas on how we can go deeper in our spiritual lives. The talks will be on the 7th, 14th and 21st of June and will take place, as usual, at 63 York Place, with tea and coffee at 7pm and the talk itself beginning at 7.30pm. Afterwards, we'll pray Compline together and then retire to the pub. Hope to see you all there! All adults, aged 18-35, very welcome!

Join Friends of the Cathedral Today – Special Offer of Joint Membership!

Thank you to our parishioners who have joined Friends of the Cathedral! From this week we have introduced a special offer for a limited time only - joint membership for £30 per month. This gives access to an excellent programme of events, starting with a music event with Sir James MacMillan in August, and you will receive the Friends magazine, Crux, that is specially created for our members.

Joint membership is also available to Friends who have joined in the last few weeks, just change the amount of your monthly payment to £30 per month and email ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk with the name and email address of the person to be added to your membership. Thank you so much for joining early and helping Friends of the Cathedral to get off to a super start!

Save the Dates! Schola Recital, 15th August & Festival Mass, 21st August

Monday, 15th August — Schola Recital: Mark your diary for ‘Schola Cantorum sings MacMillan,’ a recital 7:30pm on Monday, 15 August, the Cathedral's Patronal Feast of the Assumption. Sir James MacMillan is Scotland’s most distinguished composer, and Patron of Music at St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral. In the course of this recital at the Cathedral, Sir James will discuss the relation between faith and music with Michael Ferguson, Director of the Schola Cantorum. For details, visit http://www.edinburghsacredartsfestival.org/festival-2022.html

Sunday, 21st August — Festival Mass: At Noon, His Grace, the Archbishop, will celebrate the Festival Mass at the Cathedral followed by a reception in Coffee Saints café. Plan to join us for this special event!

Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club: Tuesday Coffee, Wednesday Cinema

Join the Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club for our weekly coffee afternoon on Tuesday from 2.30-4pm. Anyone over 60 years of age is very welcome! The next cinema outing for the over 60’s will be Wednesday 8th June. For those who missed out on the first outing, we have a second opportunity to see ‘Downtown Abbey: A New Era’. Meet upstairs in Omni at 12.50.

Information Technology (IT) Clinic: Thursday, 30th June

The Over Sixties Club offers an Information Technology (IT) Clinic that can help you with your mobile phones and laptops. Stop in for IT help at Coffee Saints 11.30am - 1pm, Thursday 30th June.

Legion of Mary – Students & Professionals Group

The Legion of Mary is a lay association of Catholics which seeks to help its members grow in holiness through devotion to Our Lady and by carrying out works of mercy. All are welcome to join. Our presidium name is Our Lady Cause of our Joy. We meet every Monday at 7:00 pm at 63 York Place, Edinburgh EH1 3JD. We are a group of mixed male and female members, students and professionals and from different countries, cultures. For more information contact phone number: Monika - 07751213612, Atama – 07832903514

Parish Volunteers – Online Safeguarding Training in June

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. Part 1: Safeguarding Induction Training online

Monday 13 June at 7pm. To register, email margaret_andow@outlook.com, providing details of your name, parish and role.

Join the Cathedral Flower Arranging Team!

As we hope you have noticed, we always have a beautiful display of flowers in the cathedral… These displays are prepared by teams of volunteers who take it in turn to meet mid-morning/early afternoon on a Friday to arrange the flowers in preparation for the weekend Masses. To ease the burden of the current volunteers and to cover holidays/other absences, we are looking to recruit more volunteers to join our teams. There are currently four teams led by experienced volunteers, so lack of experience is not a barrier if you are interested. To join the flower arrangers, or find out more, contact Elizabeth Andrews, Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com You will love being a part of this beautiful work!

Green Foliage Needed for Cathedral Flower Arrangements

Do you have a garden with lovely green foliage you would be willing to donate for the Cathedral flower arrangements? Fresh, hardy green foliage to last a couple of weeks is needed, such as copper beech, weeping beech, ruscus, bergania, ivy or ferns. Can you help? Please contact the Cathedral office at cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk or 0131 556 1798. Thank you!

Cathedral Cleaning Volunteers Needed

The Cathedral cleaning team meet every Wednesday afternoon between 2pm – 4pm to clean the church. We are seeking to recruit more volunteers to join the group. If you cannot attend every week, helping once or twice per month would be greatly appreciated. If you would like to join the group, or find out more, please contact Elizabeth Andrews at Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com

2022 Marriage Preparation Course 27th August

A Marriage Preparation course will take place on Saturday, 27th of August, with presentations by married couples from the parish. To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Join us for the Queen’s Jubilee!

Join us in the Parish Rooms after 10:30am Mass in Ravelston for a wee celebration of the Queen’s Jubilee! We will have some cake and bubbly, and hope you will stop in to celebrate this special occasion!

Sacred Heart Novena after 6pm Masses this Month

During the month of June, join us after 6pm Masses Monday-Friday to pray the Novena to the Sacred Heart! June is traditionally dedicated to devotion to the Sacred Heart and the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on Friday, 17 June this year.

Friday Coffee for Alzheimer’s Society

Come along to our next Friday coffee 10am-Noon and contribute to raising funds for the Alzheimer’s Society. It is a wonderful way to support those affected by Alzheimer’s. Do come along and support this wonderful cause and enjoy some delicious cakes!

Vocations Mass on Monday, 6 June at Sacred Heart

The monthly Mass for Vocations takes place at 6:30pm on Monday 6 June at Sacred Heart Church, 56 John Street, Penicuik, EH26 8NE. Please come along and pray that more young people in our Archdiocese respond to God’s call to the priesthood or religious life.

Corpus Christi Procession in Falkirk – Sunday 19 June, 3:00pm

As part of the Eucharistic renewal in the Archdiocese this liturgical year you are invited to take part in a Corpus Christi procession, led by Archbishop Cushley, at St Francis Xavier’s, Hope Street, Falkirk FK1 5AT on Sunday 19 June at 3:00pm. Gather at the Bandstand in High Street before processing to St Francis Xavier’s Parish (around 20 min walk). All First Communicants and Altar Servers and their families are especially welcome!

Archdiocesan St Vincent de Paul Mass on Friday, 24 June

Renato Lima de Oliveira, International President General of the Society of St Vincent de Paul, will attend the annual Archdiocesan SSVP Mass at St Patrick’s Church in The Cowgate, Edinburgh, at 7:00pm on Friday 24 June. A buffet will be served after Mass. All welcome.

Study Theology at Edinburgh Campus of St. Mary’s University!

In case you missed it, a 1-hour video is available at bit.ly/OpenEveningReplay of the 17 May Open Evening for the Edinburgh Campus of St. Mary’s University, featuring Q&A with course leaders and student testimonials on the MA courses in Theology. Core courses include Aspects of Biblical Interpretation; Human Beings and Human Action; Foundations of Christian Spirituality; Basic Principles and History of Catholic Social Teaching; Spiritual Direction, Psychology and Spiritual Formation; and more. Enjoy the flexibility of part-time courses on the evening and at weekends! Classes start in September! For more information, visit www.stmarys.ac.uk/Edinburgh. Questions? Contact Susan Longhurst, Course Lead, susan.longhurst@stmarys.ac.uk, 07773 689535.

Family Afternoon, Saturday 25 June: ‘The Eucharist: Source of Family Love’

A Family Afternoon at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB, takes place on Saturday 25 June, 2.00pm-5.00pm. It will include separate sessions for adults, children and teens, focusing on ‘The Eucharist: Source of Family Love’, family prayer time in St Margaret’s Chapel and family games! Don’t miss this event for all families, which coincides with the 10th World Meeting of Families taking place in Rome. We'll be joined by the Servidora Sisters from Fife who are well known for their great work hosting fun sessions for kids. Register your family today at bit.ly/archfamilyday.

PVG Volunteers Needed for Family Afternoon

Volunteers with PVG membership are needed for work with children during the Family Afternoon on Sat 25th June, at the Gillis Centre. The children's groups will run for an hour 2.15-3.15pm and will be led by the Servidora Sisters. Volunteers will help support the Sisters in the children’s groups on the day and occupy any under-fives. If you have PVG membership and would like to volunteer, please contact our parish Safeguarding Officer, Chris McCabe, Chris.McCabe@staned.org.uk

Free Mobility Services Available from St. James Quarter Car Park

Guest Mobility Services located on Level B2 of the St. James Quarter Car Park offers mobility equipment free of charge with no deposit required. The mobility fleet includes scooters, specialist bariatric scooters, powered wheelchairs, as well as devices for families including single and double push chairs. The equipment can be used at the Cathedral or anywhere around the city centre of Edinburgh. Hours are Monday-Saturday 9am-7pm and Sunday 10am-6pm. Booking is available either online at https://stjamesquarter.com/guest-mobility or by calling 07898 740288. For those attending 9:00am Sunday Mass, with two weeks’ notice arrangements can be made for staffing and mobility equipment by 8:30am on a Sunday morning. They’ll even arrange to meet you at your bus stop with mobility equipment!

The Scottish Catholic Magazine’s 3rd June Issue Now Available!

The Scottish Catholic magazine’s 3rd June issue has arrived with news, opinions and features on Catholic life in Scotland. A new edition is printed every two weeks. The Scottish Catholic is the only publication dedicated to Scotland’s 600,000 Catholics. For just £2 pick up your copy on the table in the Octagon while supplies last! Please put monies in the box at the pillar after you enter the Cathedral. Thank you! For more information, visit https://www.scottishcatholic.com/

Next Weekend Special Collection - Day for Life

Next weekend we will have a special collection for the Day for Life which will be used to help protect and care for our families and friends as they near the end of life. The collection supports quality palliative care to provide dignity to the dying while valuing life to its natural end, as well as organisations working to protect the disabled from changes in the law. Alternatively, donate direct to https://bit.ly/archdayforlife

Comings and Goings…

Sadly we bid farewell to Fr. Emmanuel who has returned to his Diocese of Argyll and the Isles and thank him for all his work (and wonderful sermons!) here over the last few months. At the same time, we welcome Patrick Rogers from the United States who will be helping out in the Cathedral Office over the next 2 months while visiting Edinburgh!

Read the newsletter for 5th June (pdf)

Seventh Sunday Of Easter – Year C

First Holy Communions Next Saturday at 12 noon

No 10:00am Mass, No Adoration

Please remember in your prayers the children from the Cathedral parish who will receive their First Holy Communion at Mass next Saturday at 12:00pm. Thank you, especially, to Fr. Jamie, their teachers and parents who have helped them to prepare for their First Holy Communion. Please note there will be no 10:00am Mass and no Eucharistic Adoration next Saturday, 4th June. Confessions will be as normal. Normal service will resume the following weekend – thank you for your understanding!

Queen’s Jubilee Celebration – Next Sunday!

On Sunday 5th June, His Grace, the Archbishop, will celebrate a special Mass of Thanksgiving at Noon on the occasion of the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen. This will be a delightful and joyful celebration and will finish with a champagne reception after the Mass. If you can make it – do come along to toast the queen on this historic occasion.

Friends of the Cathedral – Join Today!

We’re delighted to launch Friends of the Cathedral, a new initiative for people who care about the Cathedral and who are committed to building up our community and helping to raise funds for the Cathedral’s care and maintenance. Friends will receive a brilliant new magazine that is posted straight to their door and gain access to a fantastic series of Cathedral events. With more and more people coming back to Mass in the Cathedral, it’s the perfect time to bring people together to rebuild our community, while also ensuring St Mary’s stays beautiful. So why not join today? Fill in a form at the back of the Cathedral or join online at https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/friends

Thank You for Supporting the Request Organ Recital!

Tom Wilkinson, Cathedral Organist, would like to thank everyone who supported his Request Organ Recital on 15 May 2022. The event raised the amount required to enable him to attend the international Bach Network conference, this summer! Thank you!

Save the Dates! Schola Recital and Festival Mass

Monday, 15th August — Schola Recital

Mark your diary for ‘Schola Cantorum sings MacMillan,’ a recital 7:30pm on Monday, 15 August, the Cathedral's Patronal Feast of the Assumption. Sir James MacMillan is Scotland’s most distinguished composer, and Patron of Music at St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral. In the course of this recital at the Cathedral, Sir James will discuss the relation between faith and music with Michael Ferguson, Director of the Schola Cantorum. For details, visit http://www.edinburghsacredartsfestival.org/festival-2022.html

Sunday, 21st August — Festival Mass

At Noon the Cathedral will celebrate the Festival Mass followed by a reception in Coffee Saints café. Plan to join us for this special event!

Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club: Tuesday Coffee, Wednesday Cinema

The next cinema outing for the over 60’s will Wednesday 8th June; programme and time announced in next week’s newsletter. Coffee afternoon on Tuesday from 2.30-4pm for coffee, and anyone over 60 years of age is welcome! Please note Coffee Saints now closes at 4pm sharp.

Information Technology (IT) Clinic: Thursday, 30th June

The Over Sixties Club offers an Information Technology (IT) Clinic that can help you with your mobile phones and laptops. Stop in for IT help at Coffee Saints 11.30am - 1pm, Thursday 30th June.

Join the Cathedral Flower Arranging Team!

As we hope you have noticed, we always have a beautiful display of flowers in the cathedral… These displays are prepared by teams of volunteers who take it in turn to meet mid-morning/early afternoon on a Friday to arrange the flowers in preparation for the weekend Masses. To ease the burden of the current volunteers and to cover holidays/other absences, we are looking to recruit more volunteers to join our teams. There are currently four teams led by experienced volunteers, so lack of experience is not a barrier if you are interested. To join the flower arrangers, or find out more, contact Elizabeth Andrews, Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com You will love being a part of this beautiful work!

Green Foliage Needed for Cathedral Flower Arrangements

… speaking of flowers….Do you have a garden with lovely green foliage you would be willing to donate for the Cathedral flower arrangements? Fresh, hardy green foliage to last a couple of weeks is needed, such as copper beech, weeping beech, ruscus, bergania, ivy or ferns. Can you help? Please contact the Cathedral office at cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk or 0131 556 1798. Thank you!

First Saturday Devotions

On Saturday, 4th June, 9:30am all are welcome for Our Lady of Fatima devotions before 10:00am Mass.

Cathedral Cleaning Volunteers Needed

The Cathedral cleaning team meet every Wednesday afternoon between 2pm – 4pm to clean the church. We are seeking to recruit more volunteers to join the group with a view to easing the burden of the current volunteers and to cover holidays/other absences. If you cannot attend every week, helping once or twice per month would be greatly appreciated. If you would like to join the group, or find out more, please contact Elizabeth Andrews at Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com

2022 Marriage Preparation Course 27th August

The next Marriage Preparation course will take place on Saturday, 27th of August. The course includes presentations by married couples from the parish. To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Franciscan Missionary Sisters for Africa Appeal Today

We welcome Sr. Ann McAllister, FMSA to Ravelston as she makes an appeal to support the work of her religious community, the Franciscan Missionary Sisters for Africa. Please consider making a generous response to this appeal!

First Holy Communion Mass Next Saturday 12:00pm

Please remember in your prayers the children from the St. Andrew’s Church who will receive their First Holy Communion at Mass next Saturday at 12:00pm. Special As they receive Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament for the first time, may they come to love Him and grow in their relationship with Our Lord, who is truly present, Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity in the Most Holy Eucharist. Thank you to Fr. Jamie, their teachers and parents who have helped them to prepare for this important day!

Queen’s Jubilee Celebration Next Sunday

Join us in the Parish Rooms after 10:30am Mass next Sunday, 5th June for a wee celebration of the Queen’s Jubilee! We will have some cake and bubbly, and hope you will stop in to celebrate this special occasion!

Corpus Christi Procession in Falkirk – Sunday 19 June, 3:00pm

As part of the Eucharistic renewal in the Archdiocese this liturgical year you are invited to take part in a Corpus Christi procession, led by Archbishop Cushley, at St Francis Xavier’s, Hope Street, Falkirk FK1 5AT on Sunday 19 June at 3:00pm. Gather at the Bandstand in High Street before processing to St Francis Xavier’s Parish (around 20 min walk).

Family Afternoon, Saturday 25 June: ‘The Eucharist: Source of Family Love’

A Family Afternoon at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB, takes place on Saturday 25 June, 2.00pm-5.00pm. It will include separate sessions for adults, children and teens, focusing on ‘The Eucharist: Source of Family Love’, family prayer time in St Margaret’s Chapel and family games! Don’t miss this event for all families, which coincides with the 10th World Meeting of Families taking place in Rome. Register your family today at https://bit.ly/archfamilyday

PVG Volunteers Needed for Family Afternoon

Volunteers with PVG membership are needed for work with children during the Family Afternoon on Sat 25th June, at the Gillis Centre. The children's groups will run for an hour 2.15-3.15pm and will be led by the Servidora Sisters. Volunteers will help support the Sisters in the children’s groups on the day and occupy any under-fives. If you have PVG membership and would like to volunteer, please contact our parish Safeguarding Officer, Chris McCabe, Chris.McCabe@staned.org.uk

Register for Justice & Peace Event in Broxburn: Saturday 25 June

Caritas, Justice and Peace – a Synodal Way Forward takes place on Saturday 25 June, 10:00am-3:30pm at Ss John Cantius & Nicholas, Main Street, Broxburn. It’s a chance to participate in shaping the agenda of the Archdiocesan Commission for Caritas, Justice & Peace over the next two years. All welcome. There will be brief presentations from our four working groups which focus on Food, Poverty and Inequality Israel-Palestine; Laudato Si and Refugees and Migrants. Details and registration at https://bit.ly/justiceandpeaceevent

Joiner, Plumber, Painter or Electrician?

Could you volunteer some time to help a new pregnancy support service open its doors? Stanton Healthcare is getting ready to welcome mothers and babies in need of help in our Archdiocese. It is looking for volunteers to help make the new centre in Edinburgh an attractive and welcoming place where women can receive support. Find out more from Paul Atkin at the Archdiocesan Pro-Life Office: prolife@staned.org.uk or 0131 623 8917.

Venerable Margaret Sinclair: Monthly Mass to Pray for Canonisation

The monthly Mass to pray for the canonisation of Venerable Margaret Sinclair is on the first Tuesday of each month at 1:30pm (7 June) at St Patrick’s Church in the Cowgate. The national Venerable Margaret Sinclair Pilgrimage is on Sunday 18 September. More details will follow soon. Find out more about this holy Edinburgh woman at http://www.margaretsinclair.scot

African & Caribbean Mass on Sunday 5 June at St. Patrick’s Church

This monthly Mass takes place at 1:00pm on Sunday 5 June at St Patrick’s Church in the Cowgate.

The Universe Catholic Weekly offers FREE 4-week trial

The Universe Catholic Weekly has launched a new online newspaper. To order your FREE digital 4 weeks trial supply call Michelle on 0743 661 7650 or email: michelle.jones@universecatholicweekly.co.uk

Receive the world’s leading Catholic newspaper directly to your inbox for 3 months for £20. For more details visit https://universecatholicweekly.co.uk/

Scottish Pilgrimage to St. Andrews

Great 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. Or feeling more adventurous pick up the St Margaret’s Way Challenge, all the way in easy stages from here in Edinburgh to St Andrews and the great ruined cathedral, built in the honour of Scotland’s patron saint, overlooking the North Sea. All details, contact information and help from http://www.thewayofstandrews.com/

Book a Prayerful Summer Retreat at Pluscarden Abbey

This summer, why not plan a time of prayerful retreat at beautiful, historic Pluscarden Abbey? Reservations available for individuals or groups. The normal monastic day provides an excellent framework, with the 8 services of praying the Office and the daily Mass open to all. All of the services at Pluscarden Abbey are sung in Latin using Gregorian Chant. The monastery is surrounded by forest, hills, moors and fields, and enjoys a natural environment for prayer. Women retreatants are accommodated in St. Scholastica's Retreat. Men are accommodated in St Benedict’s guest house. No charge is made to retreatants; but if you wish to make a donation, this will be gratefully received. For details and online booking visit https://www.pluscardenabbey.org/retreats Pluscarden Abbey, Elgin IV30 8UA

Gifts for First Holy Communion

A wide selection of gifts is available online through The Catholic Truth Society for First Holy Communion https://www.ctsbooks.org/

More Catholic gifts are available online through Pauline Books and Media UK at https://www.paulineuk.org/ Other sources of Catholic gifts are St. Paul Publications at https://stpauls.org.uk/ and Piety Stall https://www.pietystall.co.uk/

Religious cards are also available at https://www.religiouscards.co.uk/

Read the newsletter for 29th May (pdf)

Sixth Sunday Of Easter – Year C

This Thursday is a Holy Day of Obligation

This Thursday is the Solemnity of the Ascension and is a holy day of obligation. Masses will be celebrated at the Cathedral at 8:00am, 10:00am, 12:45pm and 7:30pm. Polish Masses will be at 9:00am and 6:00pm.

Pentecost Novena Prayer

It is a vert ancient tradition among Catholics to pray for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit during the 9 days between the Ascension and Pentecost! Why not think about praying this Novena either by yourself or with your family this year. Goodness knows the world needs an outpouring of the Spirit at this time:

Lord Jesus Christ

Who, before ascending into heaven promised to send the Holy Spirit to finish your work in the souls of your Apostles and Disciples deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul the work of your grace and your love.

Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world

and aspire only to the things that are eternal,

the Spirit of Understanding, to enlighten my mind with the light of your divine truth,

the Spirit of Counsel that I may choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven,

the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with you and that I may overcome with courage

all the obstacles that encounter in life,

the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect,

the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable,

the Spirit of Fear of the Lord that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God,

and may dread in any way to displease Him.

Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of your true disciples and animate me in all things with your Holy Spirit. Amen.

Congratulations! Seminarians Peter and Paul Receive Ministry of Acolyte

Two of the seminarians from our parish, Peter Shankland and Paul Henderson, received the Ministry of Acolyte at the Pontifical Beda College in Rome this week. Please pray for Peter and Paul as they continue their studies for the priesthood.

Queen’s Jubilee Celebration – Sunday 5th June at Noon

On Sunday 5th June, His Grace, the Archbishop, will celebrate a special Mass of Thanksgiving at Noon on the occasion of the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen. This will be a delightful and joyful celebration and will finish with a champagne reception after the Mass. If you can make it – do come along to toast the queen on this historic occasion.

Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club: Tuesday Coffee, Wednesday Cinema

The next cinema outing for the over 60’s will be to see ‘Benediction,’ 12 pm for 12.15 showing, Wednesday 25th May. Meet upstairs at Omni Centre, Greenside Row, Edinburgh, EH1 3AA. Coffee afternoon on Tuesday from 2.30-4pm for coffee, and anyone over 60 years of age is welcome! Please note Coffee Saints now closes at 4pm sharp.

Information Technology (IT) Clinic: Thursday, 26th May

The Over Sixties Club offers an Information Technology (IT) Clinic that can help you with your mobile phones and laptops. Stop in for IT help at Coffee Saints 11.30am - 1pm, Thursday 26th May.

Cathedral Cleaning Volunteers Needed!

The Cathedral cleaning team meet every Wednesday afternoon between 2pm – 4pm to clean the church. We are seeking to recruit more volunteers to join the group with a view to easing the burden of the current volunteers and to cover holidays/other absences. If you cannot attend every week, helping once or twice per month would be greatly appreciated. If you would like to join the group, or find out more, please contact Elizabeth Andrews at Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com

First Saturday Devotions

On Saturday, 4th May, 9:30am all are welcome for Our Lady of Fatima devotions before 10:00am Mass.

Parish Volunteers – Online Safeguarding Training, Friday 20th May

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. Part 1: Safeguarding Induction Training, Friday 20th May at 7:00pm with Margaret Andow. To register, email margaret_andow@outlook.com, providing details of your name, parish and role.

Free Mobility Services Available from St. James Quarter Car Park

Guest Mobility Services located on Level B2 of the St. James Quarter Car Park offers mobility equipment free of charge with no deposit required. The mobility fleet includes scooters, specialist bariatric scooters, powered wheelchairs, as well as devices for families including single and double push chairs. The equipment can be used at the Cathedral or anywhere around the city centre of Edinburgh. Hours are Monday-Saturday 9am-7pm and Sunday 10am-6pm. Booking is available either online at https://stjamesquarter.com/guest-mobility or by calling 07898 740288. For those attending 9:00am Sunday Mass, with two weeks’ notice arrangements can be made for staffing and mobility equipment by 8:30am on a Sunday morning. They’ll even arrange to meet you at your bus stop with mobility equipment!

2022 Marriage Preparation Course 27th August

The next Marriage Preparation course will take place on Saturday, 27th of August. The course includes presentations by married couples from the parish. To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

10:00am Mass on Ascension Thursday, 26 May – No evening Mass

Mass will be celebrated at 10:00am at Ravelston on Thursday, 26 May for the Solemnity of the Ascension, a holy day of obligation. Please note there will be no 6pm Mass that day.

Evening Prayer in Church Friday 27 May, 5:30pm

The Religious Sisters of Mercy will lead Vespers, or Evening Prayer, in St Andrew’s, Ravelston, at 5:30 pm Friday 27 May before the 6 pm Mass. Come a little early to join in celebrating the Liturgy of the Hours, the prayer of the Church for the worship of God and the sanctification of the day and all our activities.

Franciscan Missionary Sisters for Africa Appeal Next Sunday

We look forward to welcoming Sr. Ann McAllister, FMSA to Ravelston next Sunday, when she will make an appeal to support the work of her religious community, the Franciscan Missionary Sisters for Africa. Thank you in advance for your generous response to this appeal!

CTS Bookrack and The Scottish Catholic

Our Catholic Truth Society (CTS) bookrack is available near the church entrance with a variety of booklets for purchase, including children’s books on the Rosary and Bible! Prices displayed on the back of each booklet. The latest issue of The Scottish Catholic magazine is available from the table at the back for just £2.00 per copy. Please place all payments in the wooden box above the table. Thank you!

Monday 23 May at 1:30pm: Live Talk on the Early Church

Did you see the first live talks on the Acts of the Apostles by Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM? Sister is hosting a series of 30 minute talks exploring the trials and triumphs of the early Church! Watch on live Mondays at 1:30pm or view the recording at https://bit.ly/ArchYouTube

The last talk will be tomorrow at 1:30pm. Don’t miss it!

Apply by Friday 27 May – Manager Opening for St. Pauls Bookshop

An experienced and resourceful Bookshop Manager is sought to setup and manage the St. Pauls Bookshop adjacent to St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral, Edinburgh. The role holder will have experience of retail and customer service and a knowledge of Christian literature. Strong communication skills, enthusiasm and initiative will also be key to developing this new venture. The role includes 35hrs per week (10am-6pm with 1hr unpaid for lunch) with flexibility of days available but to include Sunday working. Salary is £20,384. For a full job description, please visit https://bit.ly/STPB-Manager

To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your relevant experience and suitability for the role to morag@forthhr.co.uk by 5pm, Friday 27th May 2022.

Next Sunday! Italian Mass & May Procession: St. Mary’s Monastery

A Mass in Italian will be celebrated at 3pm on Sunday 29 May at St Mary’ Monastery in Hatton Road, Kinnoull, Perth, followed by a May Procession in the grounds of the Monastery. If you want to attend, please contact Pierluigi Carena pcarena750@dundeeschools.scot. Learn more about the monastery at https://www.kinnoullmonastery.co.uk/

Corpus Christi Procession in Falkirk – Sunday 19 June, 3:00pm

As part of the Eucharistic renewal in the Archdiocese this liturgical year you are invited to take part in a Corpus Christi procession, led by Archbishop Cushley, at St Francis Xavier’s, Hope Street, Falkirk FK1 5AT on Sunday 19 June at 3:00pm. Gather at the Bandstand in High Street before processing to St Francis Xavier’s Parish (around 20 min walk).

Family Afternoon, Saturday 25 June: ‘The Eucharist: Source of Family Love’

A Family Afternoon at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB, takes place on Saturday 25 June, 2.00pm-5.00pm. It will include separate sessions for adults, children and teens, focusing on ‘The Eucharist: Source of Family Love’, family prayer time in St Margaret’s Chapel and family games! Don’t miss this event for all families, which coincides with the 10th World Meeting of Families taking place in Rome. Register your family today at bit.ly/archfamilyday

PVG Volunteers Needed for Family Afternoon

Volunteers with PVG membership are needed for work with children during the Family Afternoon on Sat 25th June, at the Gillis Centre. The children's groups will run for an hour 2.15-3.15pm and will be led by the Servidora Sisters. Volunteers will help support the Sisters in the children’s groups on the day and occupy any under-fives. If you have PVG membership and would like to volunteer, please contact our parish Safeguarding Officer, Chris McCabe, Chris.McCabe@staned.org.uk

Video: Open Evening for MA Theology Course

St Mary's University, Twickenham, invites you to study the MA in Applied Catholic Theology at the Gillis Centre Campus in Edinburgh this September. In a video of the online open evening 17 May, you can hear what's involved, how it's taught and the support you'll receive. Watch it on YouTube where video is divided into chapters https://archedinburgh.org/study-theology-in-edinburgh-with-st-marys-university/

Gifts for First Holy Communion and Confirmation

A wide selection of gifts is available online through The Catholic Truth Society for special occasions such as First Holy Communion and Confirmation: https://www.ctsbooks.org/

More Catholic gifts are available online through Pauline Books and Media UK at https://www.paulineuk.org/ Other sources of Catholic gifts are St. Paul Publications at https://stpauls.org.uk/ and Piety Stall https://www.pietystall.co.uk/

Religious cards are also available at https://www.religiouscards.co.uk/

Read the newsletter for 22nd May (pdf)

Fifth Sunday of Easter - Year C

Come, Holy Spirit! Confirmations at 9:00am Mass

His Grace the Archbishop will Confirm 40 of our young people at 9:00am Mass today. Please keep these young people of our Church in your prayers as they are sealed with Holy Spirit in this sacrament. Special thanks to Fr. Jamie, their teachers and parents for preparing them for Confirmation!

Organ Recital – Today!

Today at 1:30pm, our wonderful Cathedral Organist Tom Wilkinson will perform an Organ Request Recital. This is a chance to hear your favourite organ pieces on the mighty Cathedral organ including Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring – Bach, Toccata – Dubois, Nimrod – Elgar and more! Admission is free, but there will be a retiral collection to help finance Tom to represent the Cathedral at an International Bach Conference to be held in Cambridge later this year. After the recital, why not enjoy a delicious coffee and cake or a late lunch at Coffee Saints?

Mass for Married Couples – this Wednesday at 7:00pm

Archbishop Leo will celebrate a Mass for Married & Engaged Couples across our Archdiocese this Wednesday 18 May at 7:00pm at St Mary’s Cathedral. It will be a lovely occasion and an opportunity for married couples to renew their vows. Why not come along….

Queen’s Jubilee Celebration – Sunday 5th June at Noon

And the Archbishop will be back again on Sunday 5th June to celebrate a special Mass of Thanksgiving at Noon on the occasion of the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen. This will be a delightful and joyful celebration and will finish with a champagne reception after the Mass. If you can make it – do come along to toast the queen on this historic occasion.

Next Sunday - Royal Visit to the Cathedral!

Next Sunday, 22 May at 3:00pm, Lord Hodge, the Queens Lord High Commissioner to the Church of Scotland, will visit St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral at the beginning of the General Assembly this year. The purpose of the visit is to hear about our plans for the renovation of the National Shrine to St. Andrew and to show support for “Coffee Saints” our new venture in collaboration with the Grassmarket Community Project. This is a singular sign of favour from the Queen who has asked for this visit to take place and who will receive a report from Lord Hodge following his visit. The Lord High Commissioner will have a cup of coffee in Coffee Saints after his visit. We are delighted to welcome Lord Hodge!

New Menu at Coffee Saints, Open Daily 9:00am-4:00pm

… and speaking of Coffee Saints….they have launched a new menu with lots of exciting dishes, a range of fruit smoothies and flavoured iced teas and by very, very popular demand, ALL DAY BRUNCH!!!! Browse the full menu at https://www.coffeesaints.co.uk/. For fun, you can even have your coffee personalised (!) with a photo of your choice printed top of your coffee foam, milkshake and even on top of pancakes! The Coffee Saints café is social enterprise partnership between the Cathedral and the Grassmarket Community Project. Every time you make a purchase you support some of Edinburgh’s most vulnerable people. All profits go to charity! The café is open 7 days a week 9:00am-4:00pm.

2022 Marriage Preparation Courses: 21st May and 27th August

The next Marriage Preparation course will take place on Saturday, 21st of May from 10am-5pm and the last one of the year will be held Saturday, 27th of August. The course includes presentations by married couples from the parish. To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club

The next cinema outing for the over 60’s will be Wednesday 18th May, to see ‘Father Stu’ starring Mark Wahlberg (time TBC). Coffee afternoon on Tuesday from 2.30-4pm for coffee, and anyone over 60 years of age is welcome! Please note Coffee Saints now closes at 4pm sharp.

Information Technology (IT) Clinic: Thursday, 26th May

The Over Sixties Club offers an Information Technology (IT) Clinic that can help you with your mobile phones and laptops. Stop in for IT help at Coffee Saints 11.30am - 1pm, Thursday 26th May.

Cathedral Cleaning Volunteers Needed!

The Cathedral cleaning team meet every Wednesday afternoon between 2pm – 4pm to clean the church. We are seeking to recruit more volunteers to join the group with a view to easing the burden of the current volunteers and to cover holidays/other absences. If you cannot attend every week, helping once or twice per month would be greatly appreciated. If you would like to join the group, or find out more, please contact Elizabeth Andrews at Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com

Parish Volunteers – Online Safeguarding Training in May

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. Part 1: Safeguarding Induction Training, Saturday 14th May at 10am with Julie Brechin. To register, email julie.brechin@staned.org.uk, providing details of your name, parish and role: Friday 20th May at 7pm with Margaret Andow. To register, email margaret_andow@outlook.com, providing details of your name, parish and role.

Free Mobility Services Available from St. James Quarter Car Park

Guest Mobility Services located on Level B2 of the St. James Quarter Car Park offers mobility equipment free of charge with no deposit required. The mobility fleet includes scooters, specialist bariatric scooters, powered wheelchairs, as well as devices for families including single and double push chairs. The equipment can be used at the Cathedral or anywhere around the city centre of Edinburgh. Hours are Monday-Saturday 9am-7pm and Sunday 10am-6pm. Booking is available either online at https://stjamesquarter.com/guest-mobility or by calling 07898 740288. For those attending 9:00am Sunday Mass, with two weeks’ notice arrangements can be made for staffing and mobility equipment by 8:30am on a Sunday morning. They’ll even arrange to meet you at your bus stop with mobility equipment!

Praying the Rosary: Monday-Friday after 6pm Mass

In this month of May when we honour the Blessed Virgin Mary, we will pray the Rosary every weekday evening after the 6pm Mass at St Andrew’s, Ravelston. Do join us!

Sunday and Friday Parish Cafés – All welcome!

Join us for teas & coffees on Sundays after 10:30am Mass in the Parish Rooms! Additionally, we have a the Friday Café (10am-Noon) with delicious home-baking. Please join us for a cuppa and a chat at either or both cafes!

Open Evening on Tuesday 17 May: St. Mary’s University, Edinburgh

Join an exciting and informative online Open Evening to hear all about the MA in Applied Catholic Theology at the St Mary’s University, Edinburgh Campus! Register now for this webinar event Tuesday 17 May, 6-7pm at bit.ly/smu_openevening. Core courses in the MA program include Aspects of Biblical Interpretation; Human Beings and Human Action; Foundations of Christian Spirituality; Basic Principles and History of Catholic Social Teaching; Spiritual Direction, Psychology and Spiritual Formation; and more. Enjoy the flexibility of part-time courses on the evening and at weekends! Classes start in September! For more information, visit www.stmarys.ac.uk/Edinburgh Questions? Contact Susan Longhurst, Course Lead, susan.longhurst@stmarys.ac.uk, 07773 689535.

Gender Reform Bill Consultation Deadline Monday, 16th May

The Catholic Parliamentary Office has produced a two-page briefing on the Scottish Parliament Equalities and Human Rights Committee’s call for views on reform of the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill. Please engage with this important consultation and write to your MSP. Closing date for submissions is Monday 16 May. Share your concerns at https://yourviews.parliament.scot/ehrcj/gender-recognition-reform-bill/ or contact Scottish Parliament’s Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee at 0131 348 5000, GRRBill@parliament.scot.

Bookshop Manager Opening for St. Pauls Bookshop – Apply by 27 May

An experienced and resourceful Bookshop Manager is sought to setup and manage the St. Pauls Bookshop adjacent to St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral, Edinburgh. The role holder will have experience of retail and customer service and a knowledge of Christian literature. Strong communication skills, enthusiasm and initiative will also be key to developing this new venture. The role includes 35hrs per week (10am-6pm with 1hr unpaid for lunch) with flexibility of days available but to include Sunday working. Salary is £20,384. For a full job description, please visit https://bit.ly/STPB-Manager

To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your relevant experience and suitability for the role to morag@forthhr.co.uk by 5pm, Friday 27th May 2022.

Ukraine Appeal –Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund

Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund’s Ukraine appeal helps people in need of emergency food, water, safe accommodation, hygiene kits, transport and child support services during this humanitarian catastrophe. Please donate what you can today online at https://www.sciaf.org.uk/get-involved/appeals or by phone at 0141 354 5555.

Mondays at 1:30pm: 30-Minute Live Talks on Early Church

Did you see the first live talk on the Acts of the Apostles by Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM last week? Each Monday until 23 May, Sister is hosting a series of 30 minute talks exploring the trials and triumphs of the early Church! Watch on live Mondays at 1:30pm or view the recording at https://bit.ly/ArchYouTube

Are You a Registered Nurse? Join the Archdiocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage

If you’re a registered nurse, please consider taking part in the Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes 8-15 July. The pilgrimage committee is looking for a night nurse (full funding available!) and other nurses to join to join the medical team. Contact Claire Banks, chief nurse, on 07930 928489 for more info. More info at www.edinburgh-lourdes.com

Save the Date: Corpus Christi Procession in Falkirk – Sunday 19 June

You are invited to take part in a Corpus Christi procession at St Francis Xavier’s in Falkirk on Sunday 19 June (time tbc). This is a major event for the Archdiocese and a beautiful and prayerful experience as well as a chance to be a witness to the Eucharistic Christ in public. Save the date!

Looking for a job? LINKnet can help

One-to-one mentoring, CV development, interview preparation and job-seeking advice are provided free of charge for minority ethnic people living in Edinburgh and the Lothians. Contact 0744 722 8686 or 0131 261 4463, linknet2@linknetmentoring.com

More information at http://www.linknetmentoring.com/

Monthly Mass: Pray for Canonisation of Venerable Margaret Sinclair

The monthly Mass to pray for the canonisation of Venerable Margaret Sinclair is on the first Tuesday of each month at 1:30pm (7 June) at St Patrick’s Church in the Cowgate. The national Venerable Margaret Sinclair Pilgrimage is on Sunday 18 September. More details will follow soon. Find out more about this holy Edinburgh woman at http://www.margaretsinclair.scot

New Dawn in Scotland Event Saturday 21 May in Stirling

New Dawn in Scotland host a day-long spiritual event at St Mary’s Church, Upper Bridge Street, Stirling on Saturday 21 May. It includes Holy Mass, Confessions, Testimonies, Workshops, a healing service and more. No registration required, just turn up on the day. More details at http://www.newdawninscotland.com

National Prayer Breakfast on Wednesday 1 June – Tickets Available!

Join Archbishop Cushley and Christians from across Scotland for the National Prayer Breakfast on Wednesday 1 June at Prestonfield House, Edinburgh. Tickets https://www.npbscotland.org.uk/

Gifts for First Holy Communion and Confirmation

A wide selection of gifts is available online through The Catholic Truth Society for special occasions such as First Holy Communion and Confirmation. To shop online, visit https://www.ctsbooks.org/ More Catholic gifts are available online through Pauline Books and Media UK at https://www.paulineuk.org/ Other sources of Catholic gifts are St. Paul Publications at https://stpauls.org.uk/ and Piety Stall https://www.pietystall.co.uk/

Read the newsletter for 15th May (pdf)

Fourth Sunday of Easter - Year C

Organ Recital – Next Sunday!

Next week, after the 12noon Mass, Tom Wilkinson (our wonderful Cathedral Organist) will perform an Organ Request Recital. This is a chance to hear Tom perform your favourite organ piece on the mighty Cathedral organ. All requests - from classics such as Widor’s Toccata, to more obscure items - are welcome! Requests should be emailed to Tom Wilkinson organist@stmaryscathedral.co.uk ideally by today. Admission is free, but there will be a retiral collection to help finance Tom to represent the Cathedral at an International Bach Conference to be held in Cambridge later this year. Why not stay on for the recital next week and then have a late lunch in Coffee Saints?

10:00am Masses Cancelled While Lighting Upgrade Progresses

We had a pre-view of the new lighting this week and it is looking really good. The contractors are working hard, but I’m afraid that due to the work we will still have no 10:00am Masses this week. Thank you for your continued patience.

Archbishop Celebrates Confirmation Next Sunday 9:00am

His Grace the Archbishop will be here next week at the 9am Mass where he will confirm 40 of our young people. Please keep them in your prayers as they are sealed with Holy Spirit in this sacrament.

Queen’s Jubilee Celebration – Sunday 5th June at Noon

And the Archbishop will be back again on Sunday 5th June to celebrate a special Mass of Thanksgiving at Noon on the occasion of the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen. This will be a lovely and joyful celebration and will finish with a champagne reception after the Mass. If you can make it – do come along to toast the queen on this historic occasion.

Royal Visit to the Cathedral – 22nd May

Lord Hodge, the Queens Lord High Commissioner to the Church of Scotland, has asked to visit St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral at the beginning of the General Assembly this year. The purpose of the visit is to hear about our plans for the renovation of the National Shrine to St. Andrew and to show support for “Coffee Saints” our new venture in collaboration with the Grassmarket Community Project. The Lord High Commissioner will be visiting at 3:00pm on Sunday 22nd May and will have a cup of coffee (!) in Coffee Saints after his visit. This is a singular sign of favour from the Queen who has asked for this visit to take place and who will receive a report from Lord Hodge following his visit. We are delighted to welcome Lord Hodge and I will give you all an update after he has been!

Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club

The next cinema outing for the over 60’s will be Wednesday 11th May, to see 'Downton Abbey: A New Era' starring Hugh Bonneville and Maggie Smith (2hrs 5mins). Meet up at 12.45pm in Omni Vue Cinema for 1pm start, followed by drinks and chat afterwards. Usually on Tuesdays we meet for coffee, but please note there will be no Tuesday coffee afternoon on 10th May. We’ll be back on Tuesday 17th May from 2.30-4pm for coffee, and anyone over 60 years of age is welcome!

Information Technology (IT) Clinic: Thursday, 26th May

The Over Sixties Club offers an Information Technology (IT) Clinic that can help you with your mobile phones and laptops. Stop in for IT help at Coffee Saints 11.30am - 1pm, Thursday 26th May.

Eucharistic Adoration: Come and Pray in the Presence of the Risen Lord

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is celebrated every Saturday 10:30am-12:00pm in the Cathedral. Come for 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour…. or more to adore the Lord. Saturday Confessions 10:30am-12:00pm.

Wedding Anniversaries Mass at Cathedral – Wednesday 18 May 7:00pm

Archbishop Leo will celebrate a Mass for Married & Engaged Couples on Wednesday 18 May at 7:00pm at St Mary’s Cathedral. If you are celebrating a significant anniversary this year, or know couples who are, the Archbishop would like to send a personal invitation. Please submit the names, address and number of years being celebrated to Fr Jeremy Milne: vemarriage@staned.org.uk 0131 334 1693.

World Day of Prayer for Vocations

Today (Sunday 8 May) is the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. Please say a prayer for all those who are discerning a vocation to the priesthood or religious life in our Archdiocese. If you think you may have a vocation, please speak to the Archdiocesan vocations directors Fr Andrew Garden 0131 663 4286 vocations@staned.org.uk or Sister Mirjam Hugens 0131 623 8902 religiousvocations@stanedorg.uk. For more information, please visit https://archedinburgh.org/vocations/

Legion of Mary – Students & Professionals Group

The Legion of Mary is a lay association of Catholics which seeks to help its members grow in holiness through devotion to Our Lady and by carrying out works of mercy. All are welcome to join. Our presidium name is Our Lady Cause of our Joy. We meet every Monday at 7:00 pm at 63 York Place, Edinburgh EH1 3JD. We are a group of mixed male and female members, students and professionals and from different countries, cultures. For more information contact phone number: Monika - 07751213612, Atama – 07832903514

Disabled Parking

You will remember that the Parish Council fought long and hard to obtain free parking for disabled parishioners attending Sunday Mass in the St. James’ Car Park. It is, therefore, a little disappointing that some disabled parishioners are eschewing this hard-won privilege, in order to park directly in front of Coffee Saints. Of course, I can understand that it is even more convenient to park on Little King Street – but this parking is meant to be restricted and it does block the entrance to both the Cathedral and the Café. Please – unless absolutely necessary – please do not park in Little King Street but rather use the privilege of free parking in the Car Park. If we do not use these spaces we will undoubtedly loose them.

Free Mobility Services Available from St. James Quarter Car Park

Guest Mobility Services located on Level B2 of the St. James Quarter Car Park offers mobility equipment free of charge with no deposit required. The mobility fleet includes scooters, specialist bariatric scooters, powered wheelchairs, as well as devices for families including single and double push chairs. The equipment can be used at the Cathedral or anywhere around the city centre of Edinburgh. Hours are Monday-Saturday 9am-7pm and Sunday 10am-6pm. Booking is available either online at https://stjamesquarter.com/guest-mobility or by calling 07898 740288. For those attending 9:00am Sunday Mass, with two weeks’ notice arrangements can be made for staffing and mobility equipment by 8:30am on a Sunday morning. They’ll even arrange to meet you at your bus stop with mobility equipment!

2022 Marriage Preparation Courses: 21st May and 27th August

The next Marriage Preparation course will take place on Saturday, 21st of May from 10am-5pm and the last one of the year will be held Saturday, 27th of August. The course includes presentations by married couples from the parish. To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Safeguarding in the Parish

Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of any member/visitor to our Parish is important to us. If you have any safeguarding concerns or need support as you were a victim of abuse, you can get help by visiting https://archedinburgh.org/administration/#safeguarding

To discuss in confidence any concerns, contact: Emma Boothroyd, Safeguarding Advisor, Emma.Boothroyd@staned.org.uk 0131 623 8949 / 07903 619 342 or write to: The Safeguarding Advisor, Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB.

Key Dates on the Horizon for Children’s Sacraments

A reminder to all parents of children preparing for Confirmation: Parents’ Meeting on Monday 9th May; Sacramental celebration on Sunday 15th May at the Cathedral First Holy Communion: Parents Meeting on Monday 16th May; Sacramental celebration on Saturday 4th June. Parents expect an email from Fr Jamie with meeting details. Please keep these children in your prayers.

Praying the Rosary: Monday-Friday after 6pm Mass

In this month of May when we honour the Blessed Virgin Mary, we will pray the Rosary every weekday evening after the 6pm Mass. Do join us!

Your Help is Needed! Many Roles Available!

Help is needed at St. Andrew’s with cash counting, serving Sunday coffees/teas, teaching children’s catechesis, singing in the choir, serving as Eucharistic ministers, readers, passkeepers, sacristans, doing altar linens laundry, or church maintenance. Many of the roles are on a rota basis of every 6 to 8 weeks. Can you help? If interested, contact cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Gender Reform Bill Consultation Deadline Monday, 16th May

The Catholic Parliamentary Office has produced a two-page briefing on the Scottish Parliament Equalities and Human Rights Committee’s call for views on reform of the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill. Please engage with this important consultation and write to your MSP. Closing date for submissions is Monday 16 May. Share your concerns at https://yourviews.parliament.scot/ehrcj/gender-recognition-reform-bill/ or contact Scottish Parliament’s Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee at 0131 348 5000, GRRBill@parliament.scot

More at https://rcpolitics.org/briefing-gender-recognition-reform-scotland-bill-2/

Bookshop Manager Opening for St. Pauls Bookshop – Apply by 27 May

An experienced and resourceful Bookshop Manager is sought to setup and manage the St. Pauls Bookshop adjacent to St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral, Edinburgh. The role holder will have experience of retail and customer service and a knowledge of Christian literature. Strong communication skills, enthusiasm and initiative will also be key to developing this new venture. The role includes 35hrs per week (10am-6pm with 1hr unpaid for lunch) with flexibility of days available but to include Sunday working. Salary is £20,384. For a full job description, please visit https://bit.ly/STPB-Manager

To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your relevant experience and suitability for the role to morag@forthhr.co.uk by 5pm, Friday 27th May 2022.

Mondays at 1:30pm: 30-Minute Live Talks on Early Church

Did you see the first live talk on the Acts of the Apostles by Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM last week? Each Monday until 23 May, Sister is hosting a series of 30 minute talks exploring the trials and triumphs of the early Church! Watch on live Mondays at 1:30pm or view the recording at https://bit.ly/ArchYouTube

Sunday 8th May, 8:00pm Concert for Ukraine at St Mary’s on Palmerston

Tonight at 8:00pm at St. Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, Palmerston Pl, Edinburgh EH12 5AW, a choir of 90 voices from all over Scotland who have kindly volunteered their services and the Orchestra of the Canongait will perform a Concert for Ukraine. Pieces will include Copland: Fanfare for the Common Man, Bruch: Kol Nidrei and Beethoven: Symphony No.9. Cost is £15.00 (under 18s free). Tickets via Eventbrite https://tinyurl.com/5n7kxeza or available on the door. All proceeds will go to Disasters Emergency Committee for Ukraine. The concert lasts around 90 minutes.

Open Evening on Tuesday 17 May: St. Mary’s University, Edinburgh

Join an exciting and informative online Open Evening to hear all about the MA in Applied Catholic Theology at the St Mary’s University, Edinburgh Campus! Register now for this webinar event Tuesday 17 May, 6-7pm at bit.ly/smu_openevening. Core courses in the MA program include Aspects of Biblical Interpretation; Human Beings and Human Action; Foundations of Christian Spirituality; Basic Principles and History of Catholic Social Teaching; Systematic Theology and Contemporary Themes; Spiritual Direction, Psychology and Spiritual Formation; and Applied Catholic Theology Dissertation. Enjoy the flexibility of part-time courses on the evening and at weekends! Classes start in September!

Italian Mass & May Procession at St Mary's Monastery Kinnoull 29th May

A Mass in Italian and May Procession will be held on Sunday 29 May at 3:00pm at St Mary’s Kinnoull, Hatton Road, Kinnoull, Perth, PH2 7BP. Please be sure RSVP to Pierluigi Carena at pcarena750@dundeeschools.scot if you plan to attend! The monastery refectory will be open for teas and coffees, so you can bring a wee picnic if you are staying for a chat. Don’t forget to bring a flower(s) for the statue of Our Lady! Please be aware that the paths in grounds are not paved and can get a bit muddy if it has been raining. To learn about the monastery, visit https://www.kinnoullmonastery.co.uk/

Are You a Registered Nurse? Join the Archdiocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage

If you’re a registered nurse, please consider taking part in the Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes 8-15 July. The pilgrimage committee is looking for a night nurse (full funding available!) and other nurses to join to join the medical team. Contact Claire Banks, chief nurse, on 07930 928489 for more info. There is also still space for assisted pilgrims who will have 24hr care on the pilgrimage. Helpers and hotel pilgrims are also welcome. More info at http://www.edinburgh-lourdes.com

Save the Date: Corpus Christi Procession in Falkirk – Sunday 19 June

As part of the Eucharistic renewal in the Archdiocese this liturgical year, led by Archbishop Cushley, you are invited to take part in a Corpus Christi procession at St Francis Xavier’s in Falkirk on Sunday 19 June (time tbc). This is a major event for the Archdiocese and a beautiful and prayerful experience as well as a chance to be a witness to the Eucharistic Christ in public. Save the date!

…and….The Scottish Catholic magazine’s 6th May issue is now available for just £2 in the Octagon!

Read the newsletter for 8th May (pdf)

Second Sunday of Easter (Divine Mercy Sunday) – Year C

10:00am Masses Cancelled This Week Monday-Friday

Please note that 10:00am Mass is cancelled this week, Monday 25 April – Friday 29 April. Contractors will be working in the Cathedral to upgrade the lighting between 8:30am to 12:30pm and from 2:00pm until 5:30pm each day. Thank you for your patience as we improve our Cathedral lighting.

Feast of Divine Mercy Holy Hour sunday at 3:00pm

Join us for the Feast of Divine Mercy here in the Cathedral at 3:00pm today, Divine Mercy Sunday, including a Holy Hour with exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and opportunity for Confession.

Eucharistic Adoration: Come and Pray in the Presence of the Risen Lord

“Christ has been raised from the dead, as the first-fruits of all who have fallen asleep.” (1 Cor 15:20)

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is celebrated every Saturday 10:30am-12:00pm in the Cathedral. In this holy Easter season, why not take some time for quiet, peaceful prayer before the Risen Jesus Christ in the Eucharist? Come for 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour…. or more. You may want to read the Resurrection accounts in the Scriptures to draw near to God in prayer. Saturday Confessions are from 10:30am-12:00pm.

Request Organ Recital – Sunday, 15 May

Put in your requests for our Request Organ Recital on 1.30pm, Sunday 15 May here at the Cathedral!

This is a chance to hear Tom Wilkinson (Cathedral Organist) perform your favourite organ piece on the mighty Cathedral organ. All requests - from classics such as Widor’s Toccata, to more obscure items - are welcome! Requests should be emailed to Tom Wilkinson (organist@stmaryscathedral.co.uk), ideally by Sunday 8 May. Admission free; retiring collection.

Visit Coffee Saints café and Support Edinburgh’s Most Vulnerable

Café Open 7 Days a Week 8:30am-5:00pm

Come and enjoy a coffee, breakfast or lunch at Coffee Saints café, in which all profits go to charity! The café is a partnership between the Cathedral and the Grassmarket Community Project, which supports Edinburgh’s most vulnerable citizens, including those dealing with homelessness, mental health problems, poverty and more. It is a totally unique café in the St. James’ Quarter where your purchase directly supports those in need! To see the full menu, visit https://www.coffeesaints.co.uk/

Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club: Tuesday Coffee, Wednesday Cinema

The Wednesday cinema offering for the Over Sixties Club on 27th April is ‘Operation Mincemeat,’ and we will meet at Omni at 1:00pm. A theatre outing is planned for 4th May at the King’s Theatre, 2 Leven St, EH3 9LQ to see “A Murder is Announced.” As this is a ticketed event, anyone going will need to pre notify and names will be taken on Tuesday 26th April in Coffee Saints at the afternoon coffee from 2.30-4pm. You may also leave a message with Graham by Thursday 28th April on 07568 202547 or email graham@grassmarket.org

Information Technology (IT) Clinic: Last Thursday of the Month

Over Sixties Club offers an Information Technology (IT) Clinic that can help you with your electronic devices, mobile phones, tablets, iPads and laptops. So far we’ve given help on how to operate an iPad and find apps and information, and provided security advice for laptops. Anyone is welcome to stop in for IT help at Coffee Saints on the last Thursday of the month. For more information or if you want to schedule IT help on any other Thursday, please contact Graham 07568 202 547 or graham@grassmarket.org

2022/23 Gift Aid Envelopes – Ready for Collection

The new 2022/23 Gift Aid envelope sets are now available for collection. Please collect your named set from the back of the church. With the start of the new tax year, this is also an ideal time to consider registering for Gift Aid. For more information on this or for any other Gift Aid enquiries, please contact our finance officer, Caroline Reid, at finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk Thank you!

2022 Marriage Preparation Courses: 21st May and 27th August

The next Marriage Preparation course will take place on Saturday, 21st of May from 10am-5pm and the last one of the year will be held Saturday, 27th of August. The course includes presentations by married couples from the parish. To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Our Lady of Fatima First Saturday Devotions – 7th May 9.30am

On Saturday, 7th May at 9:30am there will be devotions to Our Lady of Fatima here in the Cathedral, followed by 10:00am Mass. All are welcome!

First Holy Communion and Confirmation Classes Resume Sunday, 1st May

Catechism classes resume on Sunday 1st May for children preparing for First Holy Communion and Confirmation at St Andrew’s, Ravelston. Please continue to pray for all the children of our parish in P4 and above preparing to receive their First Holy Communion on Saturday, 4th June here at St. Andrew’s, as well as our young people in P7 and above who will receive Confirmation on Sunday 15th May at the Cathedral.

Parish Café Reopens this Friday

Join us on Friday 29th April for our Friday Parish Café in the Parish Rooms from 10:00am to Noon. Best cakes and coffee in Edinburgh!

Volunteers Needed at St. Andrew’s! Many Roles Available!

Help is needed with cash counting, serving Sunday coffees/teas, teaching children’s catechesis, singing in the choir, serving as Eucharistic ministers, readers, passkeepers, sacristans, doing altar linens laundry, or church maintenance. Many of the roles are on a rota basis of every 6 to 8 weeks. Can you help? If interested, contact cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk Please do get in touch!

30-Minute Talks on the Trials and Triumphs of the Early Church

Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM will host a new series of 30 min talks on YouTube on the Acts of the Apostles exploring the trials and triumphs of the early Church. Watch on Mondays at 1:30pm from 2 May to 23 May at https://bit.ly/TalksonActs “They were all filled with the Holy Spirit….” (Acts 2:4)

Event for Married Couples – Sunday 8 May 3:00pm

The Archdiocese is hosting an afternoon retreat for married couples at 3pm Sunday 8 May at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh. It will be led by Brian & Maureen Devine, a Catholic couple from England renowned for inspiring retreats. Register for this free event at bit.ly/ArchEventbrite or phone 07833 208 211.

Catholics in Health and Social Care: Zoom Event on 14 May

If you work in health and social care and are interested in exploring the unique contribution that faith makes to the health and social care sectors, joins others for a Zoom event 11:30am-4:45pm on Saturday 14 May. Register: https://www.stmarys.ac.uk/events/2022/05/catholics-in-health-and-social-care

Wedding Anniversaries Mass – Wednesday 18 May 7:00pm

Archbishop Leo will celebrate a Mass for Married & Engaged Couples on Wednesday 18 May at 7:00pm at St Mary’s Cathedral. All married and engaged couples are welcome on the night but if you are celebrating a significant anniversary this year, or know couples who are, the Archbishop would like to send a personal invitation. Please submit the names, address and number of years being celebrated to Fr Jeremy Milne: vemarriage@staned.org.uk, 0131 334 1693.

Archdiocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage 8 July – 15 July 2022

The Archdiocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage is back! Demand is expected to be high for this popular and life-enhancing trip, so booking now is recommended. It takes place from 8-15 July and will be led by Archbishop Cushley. All the details you need are at www.edinburgh-lourdes.com/lourdes22 or take a registration form from the table in the Octagon as you enter the Cathedral.

The Scottish Catholic Magazine’s 22nd April Issue Now Available!

The Scottish Catholic magazine’s 22nd April issue has arrived with news, opinions and features on Catholic life in Scotland. A new edition is printed every two weeks. The Scottish Catholic is the only publication dedicated to Scotland’s 600,000 Catholics. For just £2 pick up your copy on the table in the Octagon while supplies last! Please put monies in the box at the pillar after you enter the Cathedral. Thank you! For more information, visit https://www.scottishcatholic.com/

The Universe Catholic Weekly offers FREE 4-week trial

The Universe Catholic Weekly has launched a new online newspaper. To order your FREE digital 4 weeks trial supply call Michelle on 0743 661 7650 or email: michelle.jones@universecatholicweekly.co.uk. Receive the world’s leading Catholic newspaper directly to your inbox for 3 months for £20. To view a copy of the Friday 15th April edition visit https://universecatholicweekly.co.uk/DE/Universe-April-15.pdf and for more details visit https://universecatholicweekly.co.uk/

St. Gianna Beretta Molla Statue Unveiling at Carfin Grotto – 28 April

A special event will be held Thursday 28 April at 7pm for the unveiling of a new statue of St. Gianna Beretta Molla at Scotland’s National Shrine, Carfin Grotto, 100 Newarthill Road, Motherwell, to ask Saint Gianna’s intercession for the pro-life movement in the UK. A Mass will be celebrated at 7:30pm in in St Francis Xavier, Carfin, followed by refreshments in Little Flower Hall. The event will also be livestreamed on the Carfin Grotto Facebook page: https://m.facebook.com/carfingrotto/

Children’s 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. For details on Level 1 (age 3-6) and Level 2 (age 6-9) please visit http://www.cgsuk.org/childspirituality

Apply Now: Craig Lodge Mission House for Ages 18-30

Are you aged 18-30? Do you want to deep dive into a relationship with Christ? Do you have a heart for Church renewal and for mission? Apply now to join the Craig Lodge Mission House this September. Our nine-month programme of prayer, community, mission, study, formation and worship set in the beautiful Highlands of Scotland seeks to form Spirit-filled evangelisers for the renewal of the Church; an academic year away towards a lifetime with the Lord. Apply online https://www.craiglodge.org/ministries/mission-house Craig Lodge, Dalmally, Argyll, Scotland, PA33 1AR, 01838 200216, mail@craiglodge.org

Bethany Christian Trust — Volunteering Opportunities

Bridge to Freedom: Christian Community-based Addiction Recovery

We are looking for volunteers to support the running of Bridge to Freedom, which is a Christian community-based recovery group for people who are suffering from substance addiction and are looking to establish abstinence. We run weekly 2-hour groups across Edinburgh (Moredun, Gorebridge, Leith). Volunteers are required to help at the group by providing a listening ear and encouragement, as well as helping practically at the venue with setting up rooms and providing refreshments.

Passing the Baton: Help Former Homeless Reconnect to Community

We are looking for volunteers to join our befriending service ‘Passing the Baton’ for those who have been homeless previously, or are at risk of homelessness now. Volunteers develop a companionship level relationship with their befriendee (we match male-male and female-female) and help them reconnect back into the community by taking them out and introducing them to social groups and activities in their area. Volunteers are usually in touch with their befriendee around 1.5-2 hours every week or fortnight, over a period of 6-12 months.

To volunteer, please email volunteers@bethanychristiantrust.com, call 07884 537231 or visit www.bethanychristiantrust.com. Bethany Christian Trust is a national charity whose mission is to relieve the suffering and meet the long-term needs of homeless and vulnerable people in Scotland.

Pray for Renewal of Faith in Scotland: Brecbannoch Pilgrimage, 11-13 June

The inaugural Brecbannoch Pilgrimage will take place 11-13 June 2022 to pray for the renewal of the faith in Scotland. The event is a 50-mile pilgrimage undertaken on foot from Oban to Iona. Along the way, the relics of St Columba, St Andrew and St Margaret will be carried, invoking their protection over the Church in these isles. View details and sign up at www.brecbannoch.org/sign-up

Read more in The Scottish Catholic https://www.scottishcatholic.com/young-scots-launch-post-pandemic-pilgrimage/

The Way of St. Andrews Pilgrimage

Support the revival of the ancient Scottish Pilgrimage to the town of St Andrews! Choose one of eight great pilgrim ways wending their way through Scotland’s scenic landscape to St Andrews. For maps and details, visit http://www.thewayofstandrews.com/

Gifts for First Holy Communion and Confirmation

A wide selection of gifts are available online through The Catholic Truth Society for special occasions such as First Holy Communion and Confirmation. To shop online, visit https://www.ctsbooks.org/. More Catholic gifts are available online through Pauline Books and Media UK at https://www.paulineuk.org/ including Bibles, CDs, DVDs, rosaries and more. Other sources of Catholic gifts are St. Paul Publications at https://stpauls.org.uk/ and Piety Stall https://www.pietystall.co.uk/

Blairs Museum Exhibition: Stations of the Cross Engravings

A set of engravings of the Stations of the Cross by Czechoslovakian engraver Alois Petrak, from paintings by Joseph Ritter von Fuhrich, is now on display at the Blairs Museum, Blairs, South Deeside Road

Aberdeen, AB12 5YQ. Blairs Museum is housed in part of the former national junior seminary and offers a unique insight into Scotland’s Catholic history and heritage with spectacular collections spanning more than 500 years. More information available from Crux news at https://bit.ly/Crux-Blairs. The museum is open Saturdays between April and the end of September 10am-4pm, no appointment necessary. For directions and further details, visit https://www.schct.org.uk/visit/

Read the newsletter for 24 April (pdf)

Easter Sunday of The Resurrection of The Lord – Year C

Happy Easter!

Dear Friends,

On behalf of the Cathedral Team, I would like to wish you all a happy and truly blessed Easter. I hope that you will be able to celebrate with your loved ones and I would like to thank all those who have handed in cards and gifts to Cathedral House. We are very grateful indeed! Thank you all for participating so generously not just over the last week, but throughout the whole of Lent. I would like to thank especially all those who have worked so hard to make our celebrations so beautiful; the Servers, the Musicians, the Flower Arrangers, the Church Cleaners and the Passkeepers, and I would like to thank Fr. Jamie for coordinating the liturgies so well. It has been a wonderful Holy Week and we, the Cathedral clergy, wish you all a very Happy and Holy Easter. May the Risen Lord Bless You All,

Fr. Patrick

Easter Vigil Congratulations

Congratulations to all who will receive the sacraments of Baptism, First Holy Communion or Confirmation at the Easter Vigil: eight people are to be Baptized and received into the Church: Joanna, Jooyong, Shirlee, Maylis, Matthew, Nilesh, Rowen and Jean; and a further eight people into the Church are to receive Holy Communion and be Confirmed: Susannah, Naomi, Sherisse, Merran, Tony, An, Sebastian and Cathie, and an additional nine people are to be Confirmed: Paul, Nyasha, Amelia, Jone, Zilvinas, Pamela, Joseph, Dario and Myron. This is the end of a long journey of faith for each of them. I know that you will make them very welcome as they make this step and I ask you to keep them all in your prayers as they participate in our parish community.

Feast of Divine Mercy: Sunday, 24 April

Join us for the Feast of Divine Mercy here in the Cathedral at 3:00pm on Sunday, 24th April, Divine Mercy Sunday, including a Holy Hour with exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and opportunity for Confession.

Saturday Morning Eucharistic Adoration

Why not take some time for quiet, peaceful prayer before Jesus Christ in the Eucharist? Come for 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour…. or more. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is celebrated every Saturday 10:30am-12:00pm in the Cathedral. You may want to pray the Rosary or read the Scriptures to draw near to God in prayer. Saturday Confessions are from 10:30am-12:00pm.

Job Opening: Bookshop Manager for St. Pauls Bookshop

An experienced and resourceful Bookshop Manager is sought to setup and manage the St. Pauls Bookshop adjacent to St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral, Edinburgh. The role holder will have experience of retail and customer service and a knowledge of Christian literature. Strong communication skills, enthusiasm and initiative will also be key to developing this new venture. The role includes 35hrs per week (10am-6pm with 1hr unpaid for lunch) with flexibility of days available but to include Sunday working. Salary is £20,384. For a full job description, please visit https://bit.ly/STPB-Manager

To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your relevant experience and suitability for the role to morag@forthhr.co.uk by 5pm, Monday 18th April 2022.

Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club: Tuesday Coffee, Wednesday Cinema

Come along and join the Society of St Vincent de Paul and the Coffee Saints Café for the Over Sixties Club for the Cathedral. We meet every Tuesday from 2.30-4pm for coffee and cake, and anyone over 60 years of age is welcome! Next Wednesday cinema outing will be 27th April. Film and meeting time to be confirmed, with coffee afterwards at Coffee Saints. For more information contact Graham 07568 202 547 or graham@grassmarket.org

2022/23 Gift Aid Envelopes – Ready for Collection

The new 2022/23 Gift Aid envelope sets are now available for collection. If you haven’t already done so, please collect your named set from the back of the church. With the start of the new tax year, this is also an ideal time to consider registering for Gift Aid with the parish if you have not already done so. For more information on this or for any other Gift Aid enquiries, please contact our finance officer, Caroline Reid, at finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk. Thank you!

2022 Marriage Preparation Courses: 21st May and 27th August

The next Marriage Preparation course will take place on Saturday, 21st of May from 10am-5pm and the last one of the year will be held Saturday, 27th of August. The course includes presentations by married couples from the parish. To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

No Parish Café on Friday 22nd April

Please note there will be no Friday Parish Café this week. We will resume on Friday 29th April. Happy Easter!

SCIAF Ukraine Appeal

Please support SCIAF’s emergency appeal for Ukraine. Donations can be made at https://www.sciaf.org.uk/ To find out how the Catholic Church is helping those in Ukraine see https://www.caritas.org/

Event for Married Couples – Sunday 8 May 3:00pm

The Archdiocese is hosting an afternoon retreat for married couples at 3pm Sunday 8 May at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh. It will be led by Brian & Maureen Devine, a Catholic couple from England renowned throughout the UK for hosting inspiring retreats. Register for this free event at bit.ly/ArchEventbrite or register by phone at 07833 208 211.

Online Event via Zoom for Catholics in Health and Social Care on 14 May

If you work in health and social care and are interested in learning about the ethical challenges, register for Catholics in Health and Social Care. This Zoom event is ideal for those who missed the same event held recently at the Gillis Centre in Edinburgh. It takes place 11:30am-4:45pm on Saturday 14 May. Register: https://www.stmarys.ac.uk/events/2022/05/catholics-in-health-and-social-care

Wedding Anniversaries Mass – Wednesday 18 May 7:00pm

Archbishop Leo will celebrate a Mass for Married & Engaged Couples on Wednesday 18 May at 7:00pm at St Mary’s Cathedral. All married and engaged couples are welcome on the night but if you are celebrating a significant anniversary this year, or know couples who are, the Archbishop would like to send a personal invitation. Please submit the names, address and number of years being celebrated to Fr Jeremy Milne: vemarriage@staned.org.uk, 0131 334 1693.

Archdiocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage 8 July – 15 July 2022

The Archdiocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage is back! Demand is expected to be high for this popular and life-enhancing trip, so booking now is recommended. It takes place from 8-15 July and will be led by Archbishop Cushley. All the details you need are a www.edinburgh-lourdes.com/lourdes22

The Scottish Catholic Magazine

The Scottish Catholic magazine’s latest edition has arrived with news, opinions and features on Catholic life in Scotland. A new edition is printed every two weeks. The Scottish Catholic is the only publication dedicated to Scotland’s 600,000 Catholics. For just £2 pick up your copy on the table in the Octagon while supplies last! Please put monies in the box at the pillar after you enter the Cathedral. Thank you! For more information, visit https://www.scottishcatholic.com/

40 Hours’ Devotion at St Mary & St David, Hawick

Each parish in the Archdiocese is having 40 hours of Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament to help renew our Faith and love of Jesus Christ. It continues at St Mary & St David Hawick, from Friday 29 April to Sunday 1 May. Full programme for the Archdiocese is at bit.ly/40hoursschedule. Find out more about Eucharistic Adoration: bit.ly/40HoursPlaylist

St. Gianna Beretta Molla Statue Unveiling at Carfin Grotto

A special event will be held Thursday 28 April at 7pm for the unveiling of a new statue of St. Gianna Beretta Molla at Scotland’s National Shrine, Carfin Grotto, 100 Newarthill Road, Motherwell, to ask Saint Gianna’s intercession for the pro-life movement in the UK. A Mass will be celebrated at 7:30pm in in St Francis Xavier, Carfin, followed by refreshments in Little Flower Hall. Saint Gianna was a 20th century wife, mother, and doctor, most often remembered for her sacrificial love for her unborn daughter. She is a patron for mothers, physicians, and the unborn. The event will also be livestreamed on the Carfin Grotto Facebook page: https://m.facebook.com/carfingrotto/

ARCH (Abortion Recovery Care & Helpline)

If you or someone you know is in need of is counselling and supportive help after abortion and working towards finding peace again contact ARCH at 0345 603 8501 or visit https://www.archtrust.org.uk/

Bethany Christian Trust — Volunteering Opportunities

Bridge to Freedom: Christian Community-based Addiction Recovery

We are looking for volunteers to support the running of Bridge to Freedom, which is a Christian community-based recovery group for people who are suffering from substance addiction and are looking to establish abstinence. We run weekly 2-hour groups across Edinburgh (Moredun, Gorebridge, Leith). Volunteers are required to help at the group by providing a listening ear and encouragement, as well as helping practically at the venue with setting up rooms and providing refreshments.

Passing the Baton: Help Former Homeless Reconnect to Community

We are looking for volunteers to join our befriending service ‘Passing the Baton’ for those who have been homeless previously, or are at risk of homelessness now. Volunteers develop a companionship level relationship with their befriendee (we match male-male and female-female) and help them reconnect back into the community by taking them out and introducing them to social groups and activities in their area. Volunteers are usually in touch with their befriendee around 1.5-2 hours every week or fortnight, over a period of 6-12 months.

To volunteer, please email volunteers@bethanychristiantrust.com, call 07884 537231 or visit www.bethanychristiantrust.com. Bethany Christian Trust is a national charity whose mission is to relieve the suffering and meet the long-term needs of homeless and vulnerable people in Scotland.

Friday Breakfast and Cap Club: Life Skills, Job and Debt help

Mustard Seed Edinburgh hosts Friday Soul Food breakfast 10 - 11am at St Margaret’s Church, 170 Easter Road, followed by the CAP Club, providing Life Skills, Job Seeking and Debt help at 11.30am-1:00pm.

Everyone welcome! For more information please contact Mark Harris on 07519 268800, markharris@capuk.org or David Strang 07735 513536, davidstrang@capuk.org

Xavier Society for the Blind: Large Print Readings, Prayers

Do you know someone who would benefit from having readings, prayers and responses to Mass in Braille or large print? Visit Xavier Society for the Blind online at xaviersocietyfortheblind.org. It has provided free braille and audio materials to blind and visually impaired people worldwide since 1900. Email info@xaviersocietyfortheblind.org

Apply Now: Craig Lodge Mission House for Ages 18-30

Are you aged 18-30? Do you want to deep dive into a relationship with Christ? Do you have a heart for Church renewal and for mission? Apply now to join the Craig Lodge Mission House this September. Our nine-month programme of prayer, community, mission, study, formation and worship set in the beautiful Highlands of Scotland seeks to form Spirit-filled evangelisers for the renewal of the Church; an academic year away towards a lifetime with the Lord. Apply online https://www.craiglodge.org/ministries/mission-house Craig Lodge, Dalmally, Argyll, Scotland, PA33 1AR, 01838 200216, mail@craiglodge.org

Brecbannoch Pilgrimage from Oban to Iona: 11-13 June 2022

The inaugural Brecbannoch Pilgrimage will take place 11-13 June 2022. The Brecbannoch is a 50-mile pilgrimage undertaken on foot from Oban to Iona, with the special purpose of praying for the renewal of the faith in Scotland. Along the way, the relics of St Columba, St Andrew and St Margaret will be carried, invoking their protection over the Church in these isles. Sign up at: www.brecbannoch.org/sign-up

The Way of St. Andrews Pilgrimage

Support the revival of the ancient Scottish Pilgrimage to the town of St Andrews! Choose one of eight great pilgrim ways wending their way through Scotland’s scenic landscape to St Andrews. For maps and details, visit http://www.thewayofstandrews.com/

Gifts for First Holy Communion and Confirmation

A wide selection of gifts are available online through The Catholic Truth Society for special occasions such as First Holy Communion and Confirmation. To shop online, visit https://www.ctsbooks.org/. The Catholic Truth Society is a Catholic Charity publishing since 1868 and is one of the oldest and Catholic organisations existing today.

More Catholic gifts are available online through St. Paul Publications including rosaries, Bibles, CDs, DVDs and more at https://stpauls.org.uk/ or call 0207 828 5582.

Happy Easter to all!

Read the newsletter for 17th April (pdf)

Palm Sunday of the Passion Of The Lord – Year C

Holy Week and Easter

This is the most sacred week of the year. While Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday are not holy days of obligation, all are encouraged to attend these special liturgies in preparation for Easter. His Grace, the Archbishop, will celebrate the Chrism Mass on Tuesday at 7:00pm with priests from throughout the Archdiocese. On Holy Thursday, His Grace will celebrate the Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 7:00pm followed by procession with the Blessed Sacrament to the Altar of Repose, with watching until 11:00pm. Night Prayer will be celebrated at 11.00 p.m. Good Friday is a day of fasting and abstinence which means that all Catholics are obliged to abstain from meat, and all adults between 16 and 65 are obliged to fast. The Passion Liturgy will be held at 3:00pm and for those who cannot attend, Stations of the Cross will be prayed at 7:00pm.

Remember that it is a Precept of the Church that all Catholics should go to confession at least once a year, at Easter or thereabouts. There will be additional priests available this week for Confessions Monday-Wednesday after the 12:45pm Mass and on Good Friday after the 3:00pm Passion Liturgy. His Grace will celebrate the Easter Vigil Mass at 8:00pm on Holy Saturday and 18 catechumens and candidates will be received into Full Communion with the Catholic Church at this Mass. Easter Sunday Masses will be celebrated at the usual Sunday Mass times. Blessed Holy Week!

Sacrament of Confession

Times for Confession during Holy Week are printed on the front of this Newsletter and additional priests will be available at those times. The Archdiocese has put together a helpful guide about returning to Confession. Watch it at bit.ly/archconfessionvideo

Another resource is the `How to Go to Confession` sheets by the Confessionals.

CATHEDRAL HOLY WEEK AND EASTER SCHEDULE

Sunday 10th April: Palm Sunday

6.00pm (Vigil Mass on Saturday)

9.00am, 12 Noon and 7.30pm

Polish: 10.30am and 6.00pm

Monday, 11th April

9.00am, 6.00pm (Polish)

10.00am, 12.45pm

Tuesday 12th April: Chrism Mass

9.00am (Polish)

10.00am

12.45pm

6.00pm (Polish): Cancelled

7.00pm: Chrism Mass

Wednesday, 13th April

9.00am, 6.00pm (Polish)

10.00am, 12.45pm

Thursday 14th April: Maundy Thursday

6.00pm (Polish): Cancelled

7.00pm: Mass of the Lord’s Supper

Friday 15th April: Good Friday

3.00pm: Passion Liturgy

5.00pm: Passion Liturgy (Polish)

7.00pm: Stations of the Cross

Saturday 16th April: Holy Saturday

Polish Food Blessing:

12noon, 3.00pm and 5.00pm

8.00pm: Easter Vigil Mass

Sunday 17th April: Easter Sunday

9.00am, 12noon and 7.30pm

Polish: 10.30am and 6:00pm

Easter Knitted Goods on Sale in Octagon

Please support the parish by buying some Easter-themed knitted gifts! Easter items are on sale today after Mass in the Octagon and are knitted by parishioner Joanna Kopystynska. All the profits from all sales are very generously donated by Joanna to the parish. The knitted good are also sold online from £10 at https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/KathedralKnits

Feast of Divine Mercy: Sunday, 24 April

The celebration of the Feast of Divine Mercy here in the Cathedral will start at 3:00pm on Sunday, 24th April, Divine Mercy Sunday. There will be a Holy Hour with exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and an opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club: Tuesday Coffee, Wednesday Cinema

Come along and join the Society of St Vincent de Paul and the Coffee Saints Café for the Over Sixties Club for the Cathedral. We meet every Tuesday from 2.30-4pm for coffee and cake (all free!) and anyone over 60 years of age is welcome! Next Wednesday film offering is ‘The Nan Movie,’ Wednesday 13th April. Meeting time at 11:50 am at the Omni, coffee afterwards at Coffee Saints. For more information contact Graham 07568 202 547 or graham@grassmarket.org

Job Opening: Bookshop Manager for St. Pauls Bookshop

An experienced and resourceful Bookshop Manager is sought to setup and manage the St. Pauls Bookshop adjacent to St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral, Edinburgh. The role holder will have experience of retail and customer service and a knowledge of Christian literature. Strong communication skills, enthusiasm and initiative will also be key to developing this new venture. The role includes 35hrs per week (10am-6pm with 1hr unpaid for lunch) with flexibility of days available but to include Sunday working. Salary is £20,384. For a full job description, please visit https://bit.ly/STPB-Manager

To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your relevant experience and suitability for the role to morag@forthhr.co.uk by 5pm, Monday 18th April 2022.

2022/23 Gift Aid Envelopes – Ready for Collection

The new 2022/23 Gift Aid envelope sets are now available for collection. If you haven’t already done so, please collect your named set from the back of the church. With the start of the new tax year, this is also an ideal time to consider registering for Gift Aid with the parish if you have not already done so. For more information on this or for any other Gift Aid enquiries, please contact our finance officer, Caroline Reid, at finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk Thank you!

2022 Marriage Preparation Courses: 21st May and 27th August

The next Marriage Preparation course will take place on Saturday, 21st of May from 10am-5pm and the last one of the year will be held Saturday, 27th of August. The course includes presentations by married couples from the parish. To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

RAVELSTON HOLY WEEK AND EASTER SCHEDULE

Palm Sunday, 10th April

10:30am

Monday, 11th April

6pm Mass

Tuesday, 12th April

6pm Mass cancelled

Wednesday, 13th April

6pm Mass

Holy Thursday, 14th April

6pm Mass cancelled

Good Friday, 15th April

3pm Passion Liturgy

Easter Sunday, 17th April

10:30am

Eucharistic Adoration 3:00pm on Palm Sunday at Ravelston

The Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma invite you to join them at St. Andrew’s Church, Ravelston today from 3:00-5:15pm. Adoration from 3:00pm followed by Holy Hour with the Sisters at 4:00pm, including devotional prayers, the Rosary and chanted Evening Prayer. All are welcome!

Easter Knitted Goods on Sale to Support Parish

Please support the parish by buying some Easter-themed knitted gifts! Easter items are on sale today after Mass. All the profits from sales are very generously donated by Joanna Kopystynska to the parish. The knitted good are also sold online from £10 at https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/KathedralKnits

No Parish Café on Friday 15th April or 22nd April

Please note there will be no Friday Parish Café for the next two weeks. Thank you.

Tuesday Pro-Life Stations of the Cross with Mgr Gerard Hand

Register to join Mgr Gerard Hand (Holy Cross, Edinburgh)on Zoom to pray the Stations of Cross all pro-life intentions on Tuesday 11 April, 7:45pm. Sign up to join on Zoom at https://archedinburgh.org/lent-register-now-for-pro-life-stations-of-the-cross/

SCIAF Ukraine Appeal

Please support SCIAF’s emergency appeal for Ukraine. Donations can be made at https://www.sciaf.org.uk/ To find out how the Catholic Church is helping those in Ukraine see https://www.caritas.org/

Pro-Life Rosary with Archbishop Cushley on Saturday 23 April

Join Archbishop Cushley to pray the Rosary for unborn children, their mothers and all pro-life intentions at 10am on Saturday 23 April at Sacred Heart Church, 26 Lauriston Street, Edinburgh. This event precedes Scotland's national Pro-Life Chain which takes place on nearby Lothian Road at 11:00am.

Online Event via Zoom for Catholics in Health and Social Care on 14 May

If you work in health and social care and are interested in learning about the ethical challenges, register for Catholics in Health and Social Care. This Zoom event is ideal for those who missed the same event held recently at the Gillis Centre in Edinburgh. It takes place 11:30am-4:45pm on Saturday 14 May. Register: https://www.stmarys.ac.uk/events/2022/05/catholics-in-health-and-social-care

Archdiocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage 8 July – 15 July 2022

The Archdiocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage is back! Demand is expected to be high for this popular and life-enhancing trip, so booking now is recommended. It takes place from 8-15 July and will be led by Archbishop Cushley. All the details you need are a www.edinburgh-lourdes.com/lourdes22

Brecbannoch Pilgrimage from Oban to Iona: 11-13 June 2022

The inaugural Brecbannoch Pilgrimage will take place 11-13 June 2022. The Brecbannoch is a 50-mile pilgrimage undertaken on foot from Oban to Iona, with the special purpose of praying for the renewal of the faith in Scotland. Along the way, the relics of St Columba, St Andrew and St Margaret will be carried, invoking their protection over the Church in these isles. Sign up at: www.brecbannoch.org/sign-up

The Way of St. Andrews Pilgrimage

Support the revival of the ancient Scottish Pilgrimage to the town of St Andrews! Choose one of eight great pilgrim ways wending their way through Scotland’s scenic landscape to St Andrews. For maps and details, visit http://www.thewayofstandrews.com/

Read the newsletter for 10th April (pdf)

Fifth Sunday of Lent – Year C

No Masks in Church from Monday, 4th April

The legal requirement to wear face coverings in churches in Scotland will be removed from Monday 4 April. There is no need to wear a face covering in church from this date (though you can continue to wear one if you wish). Please continue to respect the space of fellow parishioners and remember to sanitise your hands upon entering and leaving church.

Young Adults Tuesday, 5th April, 7:00pm

This Tuesday we're honoured to welcome Bishop Mark Davies, Bishop of Shrewsbury, who'll conclude our series on St John Paul II with a talk titled ‘The Church of the Third Millennium.’ Doors open at 7:00pm for coffees and teas at 63 York Place before the talk at 7:30pm, and the evening will conclude with a time of prayer before we head to the pub for some refreshments. All adults, aged 18-35, very welcome!

Sacrament of Confession

Please take the time in Lent to go to Confession to help you prepare for Easter. Our confession times are always printed on the front of this newsletter. The Archdiocese has put together a helpful guide about returning to Confession. Watch it on YouTube: bit.ly/archconfessionvideo. Another good resource is the `How to Go to Confession` laminated sheets by the Confessionals, also available here as a PDF: https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/confession

Confession is available in the Cathedral on Monday - Wednesday in Holy Week after 12.45pm Mass.

Cathedral and St Andrew’s Ravelston Holy Week and Easter Schedule

The Holy Week and Easter Schedule is available on the website here.

Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club: Tuesday Coffee, Wednesday Cinema

Come along and join the Society of St Vincent de Paul and the Coffee Saints Café for the Over Sixties Club for the Cathedral. We meet every Tuesday from 2.30-4pm for coffee and cake (all free!) and anyone over 60 years of age is welcome! Next Wednesday film offering is ‘True Things,’ Wednesday 13th April. Meeting time to be confirmed. For more information contact Graham 07568 202 547 or graham@grassmarket.org

2022/23 Gift Aid Envelopes – Ready for Collection

The new 2022/23 Gift Aid envelope sets are now available for collection. If you haven’t already done so, please collect your named set from the back of the church. With the new tax year approaching, this is also an ideal time to consider registering for Gift Aid with the parish if you have not already done so. For more information on this or for any other Gift Aid enquiries, please contact our finance officer, Caroline Reid, at finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk Thank you!

Information Technology Clinic on Thursdays 11:30am-1:30pm

The Over Sixties Club offers a weekly Information Technology (IT) Clinic that can help you with your electronic devices, mobile phones, tablets, iPads and laptops. So far we’ve given help on how to operate an iPad and find apps and information, and provided security advice for laptops. Stop in for IT help at Coffee Saints on Thursdays 11.30am to 1.30pm. For more information contact Graham 07568 202 547 or graham@grassmarket.org

2022 Marriage Preparation Courses: 21st May and 27th August

The next Marriage Preparation course will take place on Saturday, 21st of May from 10am-5pm and the last one of the year will be held Saturday, 27th of August. The course includes presentations by married couples from the parish. To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Synodal Process in our Archdiocese: What Happens Next?

What happens next in the synodal process in our Archdiocese? For an update, watch a short video from Sr. Anna Marie McGuan, RSM, Lead Delegate for the Synod, https://bit.ly/SynodUpdate

All Deanery Meetings for the Archdiocese have been completed and five people are working on the syntheses for those meetings, which will be published on the Archdiocesan website when they are ready. If you have any comments or questions on the synodal process, please contact Sister or Fr. John Deighan

Mass Intentions

If you would like to request a Mass intention, please complete an envelope in the back of church and leave it in the box by the pillar as you enter the church, or you may request one through our website at https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/intentions

Sunday Eucharistic Adoration from 3:00pm

The Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma invite you to join them at St. Andrew’s Church, Ravelston, on Sundays in Lent from 3:00-5:15pm. Adoration from 3:00pm followed by Holy Hour with the Sisters at 4:00pm, including devotional prayers, the Rosary and chanted Evening Prayer. All are welcome!

9:30am Friday Stations of the Cross at Ravelston

On Fridays in Lent, join us at 9:30am in Ravelston for Stations of the Cross. We will gather afterwards for our Friday Café (10am-Noon) in the Parish Rooms. Please join us for a cuppa and a chat with new friends and old. You are also welcome to pray the outdoor Stations of the Cross at Ravelston anytime!

Final Monday Talk: A Saint’s Guide to Making the Most of Lent

The Archdiocese is hosting Lent with St Paul – a Saint’s guide to making the most of Lent. It’s a 30-minute talk at 7:30pm on 4 April. Fr Andrews Garden (St David’s, Dalkeith) explores insights and advice from St Paul the Apostle to help us prepare for Easter. No need to register. Watch live on the YouTube Channel of the Archdiocese or watch any of the excellent talks in this series by Fr. Andrew at bit.ly/ArchYouTube

Tuesday Pro-Life Stations of the Cross with Fr Sebastian Thuruthippillil

Register to join Fr Sebastian Thuruthippillil (St Barbara, Whitburn/Armadale)on Zoom to pray the Stations of Cross all pro-life intentions on Tuesday 5 April, 7:45pm. Sign up to join on Zoom at https://archedinburgh.org/lent-register-now-for-pro-life-stations-of-the-cross/

SCIAF Ukraine Appeal

Please consider supporting SCIAF’s emergency appeal for Ukraine. Donations can be made at https://www.sciaf.org.uk/ To find out how the Catholic Church is helping those in Ukraine see https://www.caritas.org/

Mass for Vocations 5 April in SS John Cantius and Nicholas, Broxburn

Pray that more young people respond to God’s call to the priesthood and religious life at the monthly Archdiocesan Mass for Vocations. It takes place on Tuesday 5 April at 6:30pm in SS John Cantius and Nicholas, 34 West Main Street, Broxburn, West Lothian, EH52 5RJ.

14-17 April: Young Adults Easter Triduum Retreat at Craig Lodge

Craig Lodge House of Prayer is taking bookings for the Easter Triduum Retreat during 14-17 April for young adults ages 18-30. If you would like to journey through the days of Jesus' Passion, Death & Resurrection on this retreat for young adults, Craig Lodge would be so happy to have you join in! To book tickets, please email mail@craiglodge.org and for more information visit https://www.craiglodge.org/events/easter-triduum-apr-2022

Pro-Life Rosary with Archbishop Cushley on Saturday 23 April

Join Archbishop Cushley to pray the Rosary for unborn children, their mothers and all pro-life intentions at 10am on Saturday 23 April at Sacred Heart Church, 26 Lauriston Street, Edinburgh. This event precedes Scotland's national Pro-Life Chain which takes place on nearby Lothian Road at 11:00am.

Pray for the Beatification of Venerable Margaret Sinclair

From 5 May, a Mass will be celebrated on the First Tuesday of every month at 12.30pm to pray for the Beatification/Canonisation of Venerable Margaret Sinclair at St Patrick’s Church in the Cowgate, Edinburgh. After Mass the Novena prayers will be recited and petitions placed before her shrine. Petitions may be sent to St Patrick's directly or online at https://www.margaretsinclair.scot/ using the 'contact' box.

Afternoon Retreat with Brian and Maureen Devine: Sunday 8th May 2022

A retreat for married and engaged couples with Brian and Maureen Devin takes place on Sunday 8th May 3:00pm-5.30pm at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh. Register at bit.ly/ArchEventbrite. For information, contact 0131 623 8900, VEmarriage@staned.org.uk

Read the newsletter for 3rd April (pdf)

Fourth Sunday Of Lent – Year C

Young Adults Tuesday, 7pm: St. John Paul II's Messages to Young People

Fr Joseph McGill, recently ordained priest of the Diocese of Paisley, will talk about St John Paul II's messages to young people. Advance notice that on Tuesday 5th April we're honoured to welcome Bishop Mark Davies, Bishop of Shrewbury, who'll conclude our series on St John Paul II with a talk titled ‘The Church of the Third Millennium.’ Doors open at 7:00pm for coffees and teas at 63 York Place before the talk at 7:30pm, and the evening will conclude with a time of prayer before we head to the pub for some refreshments. All adults, aged 18-35, very welcome!

Friday Stations of the Cross

A Lenten tradition is to follow the footsteps of the Lord on the way to Calvary, meditating on his suffering and death for our salvation. On Fridays at the Cathedral during Lent, we will pray the Stations of the Cross after the 12:45pm Mass. Please consider joining us in this Lenten spiritual exercise.

Saturday Morning Eucharistic Adoration

This Lent, take some time for quiet, peaceful prayer before Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. Come for 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour…. or more. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is celebrated every Saturday 10:30am-12:00pm in the Cathedral. You may want to pray the Rosary or read the Scriptures to draw near to God in prayer in these holy days of Lent. Saturday Confessions are from 10:30am-12:00pm.

Our Lady of Fatima First Saturday Devotions

On Saturday, 2nd April, 9:30am all are welcome for Our Lady of Fatima devotions before 10:00am Mass.

Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club

Come along and join the Society of St Vincent de Paul and the Coffee Saints Café for the Over Sixties Club for the Cathedral. We meet every Tuesday from 2.30-4pm for coffee and cake (all free!) and anyone over 60 years of age is welcome! Next Wednesday film offering is ‘Uncharted’ showing at 3.30pm, meet at Coffee Saints 3pm on Wednesday, 30 March. For more information contact Graham 07568 202 547 or graham@grassmarket.org

2022/23 Gift Aid Envelopes – Ready for Collection

I am pleased to tell you that the new 2022/23 Gift Aid envelope sets are now available for collection from the back of the church from this weekend. With the new tax year approaching, this is also an ideal time to consider registering for Gift Aid with the parish if you have not already done so. For more information on this or for any other Gift Aid enquiries, please contact our finance officer, Caroline Reid, at finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk Thank you!

From Sunday 3rd April, Easter Knitted Goods on Sale in Octagon

Please support the Cathedral by buying some Easter-themed knitted gifts! Easter items are sold online from £10 at https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/KathedralKnits and will be for sale in the Octagon as of Sunday 3rd April. All the profits from all sales are very generously donated by our own wonderful parishioner Joanna Kopystynska to the Cathedral.

Sunday Eucharistic Adoration from 3:00pm

The Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma invite you to join them Sunday afternoons at St. Andrew’s Church, Ravelston, on Sundays in Lent from 3:00-5:15pm. Come for a few minutes or a couple hours for silent Adoration from 3:00pm followed by Holy Hour with the Sisters at 4:00pm, including devotional prayers, the Rosary and chanted Evening Prayer. All are welcome!

9:30am Friday Stations of the Cross at Ravelston

On Fridays in Lent, join us at 9:30am in the church for Stations of the Cross. We will gather afterwards for our Friday Café (10am-Noon) in the Parish Rooms. Please join us for a cuppa and a chat with new friends and old!

SCIAF Ukraine Appeal

As well as your prayers, please consider supporting SCIAF’s emergency appeal for Ukraine, if you are able. Donations can be made at https://www.sciaf.org.uk/ To find out how the Catholic Church is helping those in Ukraine see https://www.caritas.org/

Anton and Angela Collela on Faith and Marriage: Sunday 3rd April

A Holy Hour for married and engaged couples takes place on Sunday 3 April at 4:00pm at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh. It features a testimony from Anton and Angela Collela on the pivotal role their Catholic faith has played in their 34 years of marriage. Anton is a well-known figure in the business world as the globetrotting chief executive of Moore Global, one of the world's leading accountancy firms. He is also chairman of the executive board of the Scottish Catholic Education Service. He is a respected public speaker and often gives talks on leadership in business. Register at bit.ly/ArchEventbrite. For information visit, https://archedinburgh.org/event-anton-and-angela-share-insights-from-a-catholic-marriage/ or contact 0131 623 8900, VEmarriage@staned.org.uk

Monday Talks: A Saint’s Guide to Making the Most of Lent

The Archdiocese is hosting Lent with St Paul – a Saint’s guide to making the most of Lent. It’s a 30-minute talk at 7:30pm on 28 March and 4 April. Fr Andrews Garden (St David’s, Dalkeith) explores insights and advice from St Paul to help us prepare for Easter. No need to register. Watch live on the YouTube Channel of the Archdiocese at bit.ly/ArchYouTube

Pro-Life Stations of the Cross with Fr. Michael John Galbraith

Register to join Fr Michael John Galbraith (St James’ Parish in St Andrews) on Zoom to pray the Stations of Cross for unborn children, their mothers and all pro-life intentions on Tuesday 29 March, 7:45pm. Sign up to join on Zoom at https://archedinburgh.org/lent-register-now-for-pro-life-stations-of-the-cross/

Bethany Christian Trust — Volunteering Opportunities

Bridge to Freedom: Christian Community-based Addiction Recovery

We are looking for volunteers to support the running of Bridge to Freedom, which is a Christian community-based recovery group for people who are suffering from substance addiction and are looking to establish abstinence. We run weekly 2-hour groups across Edinburgh (Moredun, Gorebridge, Leith). Volunteers are required to help at the group by providing a listening ear and encouragement, as well as helping practically at the venue with setting up rooms and providing refreshments.

Passing the Baton: Help Former Homeless Reconnect to Community

We are looking for volunteers to join our befriending service ‘Passing the Baton’ for those who have been homeless previously, or are at risk of homelessness now. Volunteers develop a companionship level relationship with their befriendee (we match male-male and female-female) and help them reconnect back into the community by taking them out and introducing them to social groups and activities in their area. Volunteers are usually in touch with their befriendee around 1.5-2 hours every week or fortnight, over a period of 6-12 months.

To volunteer, please email volunteers@bethanychristiantrust.com, call 07884 537231 or visit www.bethanychristiantrust.com

Bethany Christian Trust is a national charity whose mission is to relieve the suffering and meet the long-term needs of homeless and vulnerable people in Scotland.

The Margaret Sinclair Story: Tuesday 29th March

The online Premiere of The Margaret Sinclair Story will be broadcast live on Tuesday 29 March at 7.00pm The Story of Venerable Margaret Sinclair, from Edinburgh, is vividly brought to life in this docu-drama. Watch live at https://youtu.be/7LYFhRoRPz8

After the premiere, Rachel (who plays Margaret in the film) and director Stephen Callaghan will host a public Zoom chat from 8:00pm at https://zoom.us/j/96814393754

Archdiocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage 8 July – 15 July 2022

The Archdiocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage will take place 8-15 July and will be led by Archbishop Cushley Take a booking form in the Octagon or visit: https://www.edinburgh-lourdes.com/lourdes22

African & Caribbean Mass at St. Patrick’s Sunday 3 April

The monthly African & Caribbean Mass takes place at 1:00pm in St Patrick’s, Cowgate, Edinburgh on Sunday 3 April. It will be concelebrated by several of our African clergy and all are welcome!

Mass for Vocations 5 April in SS John Cantius and Nicholas, Broxburn

Pray that more young people respond to God’s call to the priesthood and religious life at the monthly Archdiocesan Mass for Vocations. It takes place on Tuesday 5 April at 6:30pm in SS John Cantius and Nicholas, 34 West Main Street, Broxburn, West Lothian, EH52 5RJ.

Mass Intentions

If you would like to request a Mass intention, please complete an envelope in the back of church and leave it in the box by the pillar as you enter the church, or you may request one through our website at https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/intentions

The Scottish Catholic Magazine

The Scottish Catholic magazine’s latest edition has arrived with news, opinions and features on Catholic life in Scotland. A new edition is printed every two weeks. For just £2 pick up your copy on the table in the Octagon while supplies last! Please put monies in the box at the pillar after you enter the Cathedral. You may also wish to 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!)

Free Catholic Movies, News, Shows and More

Shalom World is a Catholic, commercial-free, 24/7, HD family entertainment channel. “Change what you watch and watch the world change!” https://www.shalomworld.org/

14 May & 16 May-20 May: Christian Aid Sale of Books and Collectibles

The annual Christian Aid Appeal book sale with collectables will be held at St. Andrew’s and St. George’s West Church, 13 George Street, EH2 2PA on Saturday, 14 May and Monday 16 May to Friday 20 May. If you wish to donate any items to the sale, they may be brought to the church 9am-9pm from Monday 2 May to Wednesday 11 May (excluding Sunday 8 May). Donated items will also be received 9am-5pm on Saturday 7 May. Items accepted include books, tablecloths, bed linens, toys, games, stamps, postcards, and more. Questions? Please contact Joan Dryburgh at 01383860153. Christian Aid gives relief to the poorest people of the world. Visit https://www.christianaid.org.uk/

Special Collection this Weekend for SCIAF

There will be a special collection this weekend for Episcopal Charities including SCIAF, the official aid and international development charity of the Catholic Church in Scotland.

Read the newsletter for 27th March (pdf)