Fifth Sunday In Ordinary Time – Year A

Lenten Appeal: Cathedral Windows Repairs

My Dear Friends – As part of our on-going maintenance of this beautiful and historic building, last year we commissioned a “health report” of the fabric of the Cathedral. This was conducted by Adams Napier – a firm of conservation specialists. Their report has guided much of our fabric work over the last year. One of the more serious problems that Adams Napier drew our attention to was the state of disrepair of some of our windows. Following up on this, late last year, we commissioned a more specific review of the windows which identified multiple issues where the lead frames of our windows have buckled over time and the stability of the glass within the windows has been compromised. Two of the leaded lights at the clerestory level on the Lady Chapel side of the Cathedral and a large window on the St Andrew’s Chapel side of the Sanctuary are in a particularly poor condition and need immediate attention! Longer term it is likely that more work will be required elsewhere, but as a first step there is an urgent need to repair and restore these three windows. The cost of the repairs will be £10,500, however the enormous cost of scaffolding means that the final cost will be more in the region of £14,000. The work will take place over 6-8 weeks beginning sometime in April.

Unfortunately, this work simply must be done – for safety reasons alone – and so I am turning to you to ask for your help in facing this problem. My idea is that, this year, we will run our own Lenten Campaign to raise the money for the repair of our windows. Primarily my idea is that we will have a special second collection each week of Lent specifically for this purpose.

I am aware that all of us are feeling the pinch these days with rising energy costs and the cost-of-living crisis – but there is really no alternative for us here but to try to raise the money for this repair work. If you can think of any fundraising activities that we might be able to run over this period to raise funds – please contact me or one of the members of the parish council. But as a first step – if you are able to – please help us by contributing to the Window Fund during Lent. Fr. Patrick

Adult Confirmation Classes Begin in March

This Lent, the Cathedral run a course for adults to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation at the Easter Vigil on Saturday 8th April. Classes start on Wednesday 1st March at 7pm. If you are interested and would like to register, contact cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Children’s Catechism for First Holy Communion

Classes in preparation for First Holy Communion are open to all children in Primary 4 and above who have received First Reconciliation and will begin on Sunday, 26 February. Prior registration is essential! First Holy Communion: https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/first-communion

No Tuesday Young Adults Group Talk This Week

Our Young Adults talk will not be held this week due to the First Reconciliation scheduled for Tuesday evening, but will resume next Tuesday, 14 February with Fr. Scott Deeley who will conclude our series of talks on the Liturgy with his talk on the Eucharist.

Youth Group

The Youth Group will return on Sunday 26th February between 6 and 7.30pm in the Parish Rooms at St Andrew’s, Ravelston. Young people from P3 are welcome. The meetings will includes games, discussions and activities to learn more about the faith, prayer and the tuck shop – so don’t forget spending money! The registration fee is just £1 on the first night for new registrations, please pick up a registration form that can be found in the Cathedral or St Andrew’s or contact Fr Robert for more information.

Over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon

The Over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon will be on Tuesday 7 February at Coffee Saints, 2.30pm - 4pm.

Come along and see what all of the fun is about with a lovely group of people!

Calling All Singers! Open Rehearsal of 9am Sunday Choir This Wednesday

The 9am Sunday choir is looking for new members. If you are interested in joining this friendly group, or if you are simply curious about what goes on behind the scenes, you are warmly invited to an open rehearsal this Wednesday 8th February at 7pm in the Cathedral. Why not come along and give it a try!

Message from Alice: Huge Thank You ‘Big Cathedral Clean’ Volunteers!

We had a great turnout to help to clean the Cathedral last Saturday, 28th January and I am immensely grateful to all those who came to help! In a very short space of time, they made very light work of the list of jobs we had for them and the results of their efforts are really visible. The kneelers have been transformed by a good scrub and look new again. The woodwork everywhere has been cleaned and polished, the cobwebs and dust are banished from behind the Sanctuary curtains and the edges of the Cathedral and the pipework, floors, chairs and confessionals were washed and hoovered, amongst much else. A huge thank you, too, to the regular volunteer cleaners who turned out for the second time in a week to lead the teams. Special thanks from me to Maria James for all her assistance in organising the day.

Catenians Meeting, Wednesday, 15th February, at 7.00 p.m.

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a meeting on Wednesday, 15th February, at 7.00 p.m. in 63 York Place. The Association is an international body of Catholic laymen who meet once a month and offer friendship and support to Catholic men at all stages of their lives. For more information contact John Russell at 01555 728032 or membership@thecatenians.com

St Pauls Bookshop: New and Second-Hand Catholic Books

A wide range of beautiful new Bibles, Christian classics, spirituality books and prayer books are available at the Cathedral’s St Pauls Bookshop. You can also find a variety of children’s Bibles, books about the Mass, prayer books and colouring books. A selection of second-hand Catholic books are also on sale for a discounted cost. Do you have second-hand Catholic books to share? The bookshop welcomes donations of used Catholic books in good condition – just drop them off with the bookshop Manager during normal business hours, Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5:00pm (closed Mondays). If you have questions, please contact the shop at https://edinburgh@stpauls.org.uk or 01315104250.

No 10am Mass This Week

As you know, two of our priests are away (Fr. Jose in India and Fr. Ajeesh in Jersey looking after a sick priest from his congregation). This week there will be no 10am Mass. Thank you for your understanding.

Ecumenical Prayer Service for Peace in Ukraine

His Grace, the Archbishop, and Bishop Kenneth Nowakowski, the Catholic Ukrainian Eparch in the UK, will lead an Ecumenical Prayer Service for Peace in Ukraine on Friday, 24 February, 7:00pm here at the Cathedral. Save the date and join us praying for peace.

Holy Hour Today at 2:00pm

All are invited to our Sunday Holy Hour at 2:00pm — a quiet, prayerful way to spend the Lord’s day at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston with an hour of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. The Holy Hour will conclude with Benediction at 3pm. Please do make some time to be with Jesus Christ in this beautiful time of prayer. We will have a Holy Hour ever Sunday afternoon up to and including 19th February. Do join us!

First Reconciliation on Monday, 7:00pm

Children of St. Andrew’s, Ravelston will receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time tomorrow evening at 7:00pm. Please keep them in your prayers!

Happy Birthdays!

Our centenarian-plus parishioner Helen MacDonald turned 101 on Sunday 29 January – belated Happy Birthday, Helen! Today, best wishes to Mina Brown who is 90 years young! Happy Birthday, Mina!

Burns Night is Back at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston!

By popular demand, we will have a Burns Night on Friday 17th February, 6.30 for 7pm in the Ravelston parish rooms. Tickets are available from today priced at £15 to include bubbly on arrival and wine / soft drinks with your meal. If you would like to volunteer to pipe the haggis in and give the traditional address, or if you’d rather toast the lassies, or reply on their behalf, give the immortal memory, or even recite a poem then please speak with Judy or Marie (0131 332 6028)

St. Andrew’s Talk in March: Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund

The next St Andrew's talk will be on Monday, 6 March with Penelope Blackwell from SCIAF (Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund) who will talk about the Lenten appeal and the work of the charity.

Message from Archbishop Leo Cushley

My Dear Friends, World Day for the Sick is on Saturday 11 February. In light of the Church’s synodal journey, Pope Francis invites us to reflect “that it is especially through the experience of vulnerability and illness that we can learn to walk together according to the style of God, which is closeness, compassion, and tenderness.” The day is also the Memorial of Our Lady of Lourdes so we ask for her intercession in giving comfort and peace to the sick and ill in our parishes

Holy Hour with Archbishop at Gillis Centre, Sunday, 12th Feb., 6:00pm

"I invite all the faithful to come and pray with me before Our Lord present in the Blessed Sacrament." + Leo

Join Archbishop Cushley for Eucharistic Adoration at 6pm on Sunday 12 February at St Margaret’s Chapel at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, to pray for “insight, courage and joy in our mission,” as part of the Synod 2023. The next Holy Hour will take place on Sunday 12 March.

Half-Day Valentine’s Retreat for Married Couples: Responding with Joy

A free half-day retreat offers couples a chance to reflect on their love and commitment to each other, to God and to their community. It will be led by Annette and Paul O’Beirne, of Equipes Notre-Dame (Teams of Our Lady), which supports married couples in their vocation. They will share some of the stories and tools gathered over their 42 years together. The retreat will be 2-5pm, Saturday 11 February at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. Reserve your spot at http://bit.ly/valentineretreat

Lenten Online Talks: Jesus in the Servant Songs of Isaiah

Discover Jesus Christ in the Servant Songs of Isaiah with four online talks from the Archdiocese this Lent. The talks are hosted by Fr Jamie McMorrin of St Margaret’s, Davidson’s Mains, and Sr Anna Marie McGuan, RSM and take place at 7:30pm on Wednesday 1, 8, 15, 22 March. Register at http://bit.ly/lenttalks2023

Petition to Stop the Introduction of Abortion up to Birth

In 2021, abortion campaigners brought forward an amendment to a Government Bill that would have introduced abortion on demand, for any reason, up to birth (including sex-selective abortion). This amendment did not go to a vote and pass, but the abortion lobby is expected to make another attempt to introduce this extreme abortion law change shortly. This would be the single biggest change to abortion legislation since 1967 and would introduce one of the most extreme abortion laws in the world. Right To Life UK is running a petition to ask the Prime Minister to do everything in his power to stop the introduction of abortion up to birth. Please visit https://righttolife.org.uk/signthepetitiontorishi to add your name to the petition.

Thinking About Becoming a Religious Sister? Come Along for our Chat!

Is God calling you to serve the Church as a religious Sister? Join other young Catholic women on Sunday, 26 February, 4-7pm at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street, EH9 1SN to explore God's will as we chat in five monthly get-togethers in Edinburgh. The meetings will be led by Sr Mirjam Hugens FSO, director for religious vocations in the Archdiocese. Share and discuss in a relaxed environment, and enjoy refreshments. The series continues on the last Sunday of each month. Contact Sr. Mirjam for more information at religiousvocations@staned.org.uk

Read the newsletter for 5th February (pdf)

Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year A

Message from Archbishop Leo Cushley

Friends, this Thursday, 2nd February, is World Day of Consecrated Life. A total of 26 religious orders are based in our archdiocese, with religious brothers and sisters from Scotland and across the world serving our communities in Jesus’ name. Let’s pray for them and celebrate their work. May the Holy Spirit continue to inspire women and men to respond generously to God’s call to a priestly or religious vocation.

Rite of Enrolment for Confirmation

Today at 9am Mass at the Cathedral and 10:30am Mass at Ravelston, the children preparing to receive the sacrament of Confirmation will be formally enrolled. Please keep them in your prayers.

Adult Confirmation Classes Begin in March

This Lent, the Cathedral will be offering a course for adults to prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation at the Easter Vigil on Saturday 8th April. Classes start on Wednesday 1st March at 7pm. If you are interested and would like to register, contact cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk.

Children’s Catechism for First Holy Communion

Classes in preparation for First Holy Communion are open to all children in Primary 4 and above who have received First Reconciliation and will begin on Sunday, 26 February. Prior registration is essential! First Holy Communion: https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/first-communion n

Tuesday Young Adults Group Talk on ‘Sacred Space’

All young adults aged 18-35 are welcome to join us in 63 York Place on Tuesday, 31 January for a talk with Rory Lamb on ‘Sacred Spaces’. We start at 7pm with teas and coffees, the talk will begin at 7.30pm and will be followed by Night Prayer and Confessions in the Cathedral, before a time to discuss in the pub.

First Saturday Devotions

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

Youth Group

The Youth Group will return on Sunday 26th February between 6 and 7.30pm in the Parish Rooms at St Andrew’s, Ravelston. Young people from P3 are welcome. The meetings include some game time, discussions and activities to learn more about the faith, prayer and the tuck shop – so don’t forget spending money! The registration fee is just £1 on the first night, so please pick up a registration form that can be found in the Cathedral or St Andrew’s or contact Fr Robert for more information.

Over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon, Trip to City Art Centre

The Over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon will be on Tuesday 31 January at Coffee Saints, 2.30pm - 4pm.

Thursday 2nd February, trip to City Art Centre for Auld Reekie Retold exhibition. Meet at City Arts Centre, 2 Market St, Edinburgh EH1 1DE at 2:00pm.

Ecumenical Prayer Service for Peace in Ukraine

His Grace, the Archbishop, and Bishop Kenneth Nowakowski, the Catholic Ukrainian Eparch in the UK, will lead an Ecumenical Prayer Service for Peace in Ukraine on Friday, 24 February, 7:00pm here at the Cathedral. Save the date and join us praying for peace.

Catenians Meeting, Wednesday, 15th February, at 7.00 p.m.

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a meeting on Wednesday, 15th February, at 7.00 p.m. in 63 York Place. The Association is an international body of Catholic laymen who meet once a month and offer friendship and support to Catholic men at all stages of their lives. For more information contact John Russell at 01555 728032 or membership@thecatenians.com

Parish Safeguarding Training Dates

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. Safeguarding Training Part 1, Face-to-face Training, is offered at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh EH9 1BB. Available dates are Friday 27th January at 1pm, Friday 24th February at 1pm and Friday 31st March at 1pm. To register, please email elaine.anderson@staned.org.uk providing details of your name, parish and role.

No 10am Mass This Week

Two of our priests are away this week (Fr. Jose in India and Fr. Ajeesh in Jersey looking after a sick priest from his congregation) – so there will be no 10am Mass this week. Thank you for your understanding.

Archdiocesan Directories

There was stunningly underwhelming response to the sales pitch last week for Archdiocesan Directories!! Just be warned – Deacon Peter and I are on the rampage this week…

Holy Hour Today at 2:00pm

Now in our third week, we are continuing our Sunday Holy Hour at 2:00pm as a quiet, prayerful way to spend the Lord’s day at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston with an hour of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. The Holy Hour will conclude with Benediction at 3pm. Please do make some time to visit our Lord and grow in your prayer life. We will have a Holy Hour ever Sunday afternoon up to and including 19th February. Do join us!

Burns Night is Back at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston!

By popular demand, we will have a Burns Night on Friday 17th February, 6.30 for 7pm in the Ravelston parish rooms. Tickets are available from today priced at £15 to include bubbly on arrival and wine / soft drinks with your meal. If you would like to volunteer for any of the following, please speak with Judy or Marie (0131 332 6028): pipe in the haggis; address the haggis; toast the lassies; reply for the lassies; give the immortal memory; sing a song or recite a poem

No St. Andrew’s Talks Until March

Please note we will not have a St. Andrew’s Talk in February. This is due to the First Reconciliation service on Monday, 6 February. The next St Andrew's talk will be on Monday, 6 March with Penelope Blackwell from SCIAF (Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund) who will talk about the Lenten appeal and the work of the charity.

Sunday at St. Columba’s: Thinking About a Vocation to Religious Life?

Is God calling you to serve the Church as a religious Sister? Join other young Catholic women today, Sunday, 29 January, for our first meeting 4-7pm at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street, EH9 1SN to explore God's will as we chat in five monthly get-togethers in Edinburgh. The meetings will be led by Sr Mirjam Hugens FSO, director for religious vocations in the Archdiocese. Share and discuss in a relaxed environment, and enjoy refreshments. The series continues on the last Sunday of each month. Contact Sr. Mirjam for more information at religiousvocations@staned.org.uk

Day of Prayer for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are invited to a day of reflection and prayer from 11am-3pm on Saturday 4 February. It takes place at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. Light lunch provided, free parking onsite. Register now at https://bit.ly/extraordinaryministers

Half-Day Valentine’s Retreat for Married Couples: Responding with Joy

A free half-day retreat offers couples a chance to reflect on their love and commitment to each other, to God and to their community. It will be led by Annette and Paul O’Beirne, of Equipes Notre-Dame (Teams of Our Lady), which supports married couples in their vocation. They will share some of the stories and tools gathered over their 42 years together. The retreat will be 2-5pm, Saturday 11 February at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. Reserve your spot at https://bit.ly/valentineretreat

Holy Hour with Archbishop at Gillis Centre, Sunday, 12th Feb., 6:00pm

"I invite all the faithful to come and pray with me before Our Lord present in the Blessed Sacrament." + Leo

Join Archbishop Cushley for Eucharistic Adoration at 6pm on Sunday 12 February at St Margaret’s Chapel at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, to pray for “insight, courage and joy in our mission,” as part of the Synod 2023. The next Holy Hour will take place on Sunday 12 March.

Come and See Day - Lay Dominicans

Lay Dominicans are men and women who live the Dominican charism in their daily lives. On Saturday 4 February the Edinburgh group has a day for those interested in finding out more. Begins with Mass at St Albert's Chapel, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9LD, at 12 Noon (entry via George Square Lane).

Remembering Service for Loss of a Child

A service for those who have suffered the loss of a child, from the beginning of pregnancy onwards, takes place on Sunday 19 February, 5:00pm at St John the Baptist RC Church, 37 St Ninian’s Road, Corstorphine, Edinburgh EH12 8AL. It is a chance to have time in quiet surroundings to fully recognise the loss and to help with healing. Those who wish to come in love and support are also welcome. The service is ecumenical and open to all.

Pregnancy Support

Do you know anyone who may need help during pregnancy? Stanton Healthcare offers free pregnancy testing, advice, support baby materials & equipment. Support is by appointment so call, text or WhatsApp 07526 480 578, email: office@stantonscotland.org or visit https://stantonscotland.org for more information and to arrange an appointment.

Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat: Spiritual and Emotional Healing After Abortion

A Rachel's Vineyard retreat for spiritual and emotional healing after abortion will be held on Friday 17th – Sunday 19th February. This confidential, supportive retreat is powerful for anyone who has been affected by their own or someone else’s abortion experience. For more information, please call or text Sr Andrea on 07816 942824 or email sisterandrea@rachelsvineyard.org.uk. Further details at https://rachelsvineyard.org.uk

St Mary's Playgroup for Children, Monday-Friday Mornings

St Mary's Playgroup at St Mary's RC Primary School; welcomes children from two and a half years old, up to entry to Primary school. Term Time & School Holidays: Monday to Friday 9:00am to 12 Noon, £11 per child per day. Contact stmarysplaygroup@aol.com, or visit https://stmarysplaygroup.weebly.com

Youth 2000 Retreat in Edinburgh

A one-day retreat for young adults aged 18-35. Includes talks, workshops, confession, adoration, Holy Mass, and a chance to grow friendships rooted in the love of Christ. It takes place on Saturday, 11 February from 9am-9pm at 24 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9LD. Register at https://bit.ly/returnedinburgh

The Scottish Catholic Goes Digital

From February, The Scottish Catholic magazine will no longer be in print, but will be a digital publication with news and opinion through their website https://www.scottishcatholic.com/ as well as social media channels. A monthly email newsletter will be available with a round up of news coverage.

Doctor, Nurse, or Generally Interested in Bioethics?

Want read good, short explanations of various issues in medicine? Visit the Educational Resources page for ‘Bioethics in Brief’ at https://www.bioethics.org.uk/, the website of The Anscombe Bioethics Centre. An Oxford-based research institute, the Centre serves the Catholic Church in the United Kingdom and Ireland.. Subscribe to its monthly digest at https://bit.ly/ABC-Subscribe

Read the newsletter for 29th January (pdf)

Second Sunday In Ordinary Time – Year A

First Confession: Rite of Illumination at Mass this Sunday

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

‘What Happens at Mass?’: Young Adults Talk on Tuesday, 17 January

Our great new series of talks for young adults continues this week with Fr. Albert Robertson, OP who will talk on ‘What Happens at Mass?’. All young adults aged 18-35 are welcome to join us in 63 York Place on Tuesday, 17 January. Other talks in the series will include the place of sacred music in the liturgy and the importance of the sacred space, all of which is for the celebration of the Eucharist. We start at 7pm with teas and coffees, the talk will begin at 7.30pm and will be followed by Night Prayer and Confessions in the Cathedral, before a time to discuss in the pub.

Saturday Eucharistic Adoration: Silent Prayer with Christ the Lord

“In the morning, long before dawn, he got up and left the house and went off to a lonely place and prayed there.” (Mark 1:35)

The Gospels tell us the Lord Jesus went off to a quiet place to pray many times. By example, He teaches us that we need quiet times of prayer. Jesus Himself is present with us as we adore Him in the Blessed Sacrament. Eucharistic Adoration is held on Saturdays 10:30am-12:00pm in the Cathedral, concluding with Benediction. Come for a short while or as long as you would like. Saturday Confessions are from 10:30am-12:00pm.

Thanks for Supporting Parish with Kathedral Knits Gifts

Special thanks to Joanna Kopystynska, our wonderful parishioner who knits such beautiful gifts for her Kathedral Knits online shop, and to all who purchased knitted gifts for Christmas! A total of almost £1,500 was raised for the Cathedral through the sales! Thank you to all! Shop anytime for beautiful knitted goods from £10 at https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/KathedralKnits.

Society of Saint Vincent de Paul Meet & Greet: Thurs., 19 January, 6:15pm

The works of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul will be known to many of you. Without its volunteers we cannot help and assist the vast needs there are for help in and around our Parish. If you are considering being a part of the SSVP and its community work, we invite you to a meet and greet session on Thursday 19th January from 6.30pm at 63 York Place. Please come along if you’d like to volunteer or if you’d like to learn more about the works we do. If you cannot come to the meeting but would like to know more please contact Trish on 07541 552070.

Over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon on Tuesday

The Over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon will be on Tuesday 17th January at Coffee Saints, 2.30pm - 4pm with a brand new format. Anyone 60 and over is most welcome to join us and meet new and old friends! Contact Trish at 07541 552070 if you would like to discuss the new format.

Location Change for Catenians’ Meeting on Wednesday, 18th January

Please note a location change for this month’s meeting of the Catenian Association. The meeting will be at The Fairway Hotel, 2 Edinburgh Rd, Bathgate EH48 1BA from 7.00 p.m.-9.00 p.m. More information is available from John Russell on 01555 728032.

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.

Ecumenical Prayer Service for Peace in Ukraine, Friday, 24 February, 7pm

His Grace, the Archbishop, and Bishop Kenneth Nowakowski, the Catholic Ukrainian Eparch in the UK, will lead an Ecumenical Prayer Service for Peace in Ukraine on Friday, 24 February, 7:00pm here at the Cathedral. Save the date and join us praying peace.

Special Cathedral Cleaning Day: Saturday 28th January, 1:30pm – 4pm

We will have a Spring Cleaning Day on Saturday 28th January, between 1:30pm and 4pm and are need 15 volunteers to help clean the Cathedral. If you can spare the time, please save the date and contact Alice via e-mail, complexmanager@stmaryscathedral.co.uk with your name and number, or sign up on the clip boards at the back of church. Thank you!

2023 Marriage Preparation Courses

The next Marriage Preparation courses are 10am-5pm on Saturday, 28th January 2023 and Saturday, 20th May 2023. The course includes presentations by married couples from the parish. To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk.

Special Collection for Justice & Peace This Weekend

A special collection will be held this weekend for the National Commission for Justice and Peace which advises the Scottish Bishops’ Conference in matters relating to social justice, international peace and human rights. Thank you!

Holy Hour Today at 2:00pm

As a quiet, prayerful way to enter into the New Year, join us today for 2:00pm Holy Hour at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. The Holy Hour will conclude with Benediction at 3pm. Please do make some time to visit our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. We will have a Holy Hour ever Sunday afternoon up to and including 19th February. Do join us!

Next St. Andrew’s Talk: SCIAF’s Charitable Work, Monday, 6 March

Thanks to all who came for our St. Andrew’s Talk last Monday on the Eucharist – you’re well prepared for our parish Sunday Holy Hours! Save the date for our next talk on Monday, 6th March with Penelope Blackwell from SCIAF (Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund) who will talk about the Lenten appeal and the work of the charity.

Footpaths Makeover

As can be seen, the planned health & safety work to resurface our footpaths is underway. Please take extra care on-site whilst the work is in progress. The side gate is closed until the path is done. Thank you for your patience.

Half-Day Valentine’s Retreat for Married Couples: Responding with Joy

A free half-day retreat offers couples a chance to reflect on their love and commitment to each other, to God and to their community. It will be led by Annette and Paul O’Beirne, of Equipes Notre-Dame (Teams of Our Lady), which supports married couples in their vocation. They will share some of the stories and tools gathered over their 42 years together. The retreat will be 2-5pm, Saturday 11 February at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. Reserve your spot at https://bit.ly/valentineretreat

Holy Hour with Archbishop Cushley: St. Margaret’s Chapel, 12th February

"I invite all the faithful to come and pray with me before Our Lord present in the Blessed Sacrament." + Leo

Join Archbishop Cushley for Eucharistic Adoration at 6pm on Sunday 12 February at St Margaret’s Chapel at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, to pray for “insight, courage and joy in our mission,” as part of the Synod 2023. The final Holy Hour will take place on Sunday 12 March.

Remembering Service for Loss of a Child

A service for those who have suffered the loss of a child, from the beginning of pregnancy onwards, takes place on Sunday 19 February, 5:00pm at St John the Baptist RC Church, 37 St Ninian’s Road, Corstorphine, Edinburgh EH12 8AL. It is a chance to have time in quiet surroundings to fully recognise the loss and to help with healing. Those who wish to come in love and support are also welcome. The service is ecumenical and open to all.

Is God Calling You to Serve the Church as a Sister? Come for a Chat!

Have you considered following the Lord in a life of prayer and service as a Sister? Join other young Catholic women to chat and explore God's will with regular get-togethers in Edinburgh. Led by Sr Mirjam Hugens FSO, the first one takes place on Sunday 29 January, 4-7pm at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street. It is a chance to pray, share and discuss in a relaxed environment, and refreshments will be served. The series continues on the last Sunday of each month at the same time and venue: Find our more by e-mailing Sr. Mirjam at religiousvocations@staned.org.uk. For information about religious life in our Archdiocese and resources to help you discover your vocation, visit https://archedinburgh.org/vocations/

Day for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are invited to a day of reflection and prayer from 11am-3pm on Saturday 4 February. It takes place at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. Light lunch provided, free parking onsite. Register now at https://bit.ly/extraordinaryministers

Mass in French / Messe en Français

Mass will be offered in French on Tuesday, 24 January at 6.15pm at St Albert’s Catholic Chaplaincy at the University of Edinburgh, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9LD (entrance via George Square Lane). French university students will lead music and refreshments will be served afterwards. All welcome.

Lay Dominicans Come and See Day

Lay Dominicans are men and women who live the Dominican charism in their daily lives. On Saturday 4 February the Edinburgh group will be holding a day for those interested in finding out more about the Lay Dominicans. It begins with Mass at St Albert's Chapel, at 12noon (entry via George Square Lane). More information is available at https://www.laydominicans.org.uk/fraternities/edinburgh-fraternity

Pregnancy Support

Do you know anyone who may need help during pregnancy? Stanton Healthcare offers free pregnancy testing, advice, support baby materials & equipment. Support is by appointment so call, text or WhatsApp 07526 480 578, email: office@stantonscotland.org or visit https://stantonscotland.org for more information and to arrange an appointment.

Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat: Spiritual and Emotional Healing After Abortion

A Rachel's Vineyard retreat for spiritual and emotional healing after abortion will be held on Friday 17th – Sunday 19th February. This confidential, supportive retreat is powerful for anyone who has been affected by their own or someone else’s abortion experience. For more information, please call or text Sr Andrea on 07816 942824 or email sisterandrea@rachelsvineyard.org.uk. Further details at https://rachelsvineyard.org.uk

Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine & Co. Mayo, Ireland in April 2023

A pilgrimage to Knock Shrine is being organized in April for parishes in Scotland. It will include day trips to Westport, Ballintubber Abbey, Croagh Patrick, Fr. Peyton Centre & National Museum. Cost is £699.00 per person sharing. Price includes flight, all transfers, 4 nights in Knock House Hotel with full board. Contact Patricia on 07740 175557 or email knockpilgrimages@gmail.com

St Mary's Playgroup for Children, Monday-Friday Mornings

St Mary's Playgroup at St Mary's RC Primary School; welcomes children from two and a half years old, up to entry to Primary school (during school holidays we can take children up to 7 years of age). Term Time & School Holidays: Monday to Friday 9:00am to 12 Noon. Price: £11 per child per day. For information contact stmarysplaygroup@aol.com, or visit https://stmarysplaygroup.weebly.com

Read the newsletter for 15th January (pdf)

The Nativity of The Lord

Light from Light: Schola Cantorum 

We hope you enjoy a video we have made following the Schola Cantorun's very successful candlelit performances in Falkirk, Kilsyth, and Dunfermline.

Many thanks to all who attended, especially Cathedral parishioners who supported the tour.

Christmas Mass Times

Mass times for Christmas until 3rd January 2023 are available here

There is no newsletter this week.

Wishing you the peace and blessings of Christmas

Fourth Sunday Of Advent – Year A

Christmas Masses 2022

St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral

Christmas Eve, Saturday 24th December:

6:00pm Mass

9:00pm Mass (Polish)

11:15pm Carols and Readings

Midnight Mass

Christmas Day, Sunday 25th December:

10.30am Mass

12noon (Polish) Mass

6:00pm (Polish) Mass

St Andrew’s Church, Ravelston

Christmas Eve, Saturday 24th December:

5:30pm Carols & Readings

6:00pm Mass

Christmas Day, Sunday 25th December:

10.30am Mass

Confessions This Week

Just to remind you that all Catholics are encouraged to make a good confession before Christmas. To enable you to do this there will be two priests hearing confessions at the Cathedral each day this week after the 12.45pm Mass. There will also be confessions after each of our Rorate Masses on Monday and Thursday. This is a good way to prepare for Christmas and will bear fruit in your family celebrations!

Rorate Mass by Candlelight Tomorrow at 7pm

Tomorrow (Monday) we will have our final popular Rorate Mass for Advent by candlelight at 7pm. It is a beautiful way to prayerfully prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ at Christmas. Do come along!

Final Young Adults Advent Talk – Tuesday at 7pm

Our Young Adults Advent Talks – ‘Images of Advent’ – concludes on Tuesday, 20 December with a talk by His Grace, Archbishop Cushley on ‘The Annunciation’. After Night Prayer in the Cathedral, we will gather at a local pub for refreshments!!

Over Sixties Club

All those 60 and over are welcome to join our Over Sixties Club events:

Tuesday 20th December: Coffee Afternoon at Coffee Saints, 2.30 - 4pm. This will be the last coffee afternoon in its present format and the last meet up for the year. Hope to see as many of you as possible. Thursday 22nd December: Mercat Cross Tour, 12.45pm meet up at Grassmarket Community Project, Candlemaker Row. Spaces limited, pre-booking is essential. Call Trish on 07541 552070.

The first Coffee Afternoon of 2023 will be Tuesday 10th January usual time and place.

This initiative of the Over Sixties Club has brought our lovely groups together and we hope to continue into the New Year. The funding may have ended, but the groups formed will undoubtedly continue. If you need assistance with any of the future costs involved, please speak to Trish on the number above. We are working on ways to make the projects more sustainable. The Book Club has been revamped and will continue in a different venue. Have a Merry Christmas and wonderful New Year!

Hand-Made Knitted Hats and Toys for Sale in Octagon

Beautiful knitted hats and soft toys hand-made by our own parishioners Anne Macaulay and Joanna Kopystynska are available for sale at bargain prices in the Octagon after all Masses. Shop for a Christmas gift for someone you love! All proceeds benefit the Cathedral! The items are also available at https://www.kathedralknits.etsy.com

Cathedral Magazine on Sale after weekend Masses for £5

The first edition of the new Cathedral Magazine called Crux, is available for only £5 at the end of all Masses today. Full of interesting articles and beautiful features it is a great way to support the Cathedral. A must-read over the Christmas season!

Catholic Men: Catenians’ Meeting on Wednesday, 21st December

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a Membership meeting Wednesday 21st December, from 7.00 p.m.-9.00 p.m. in 63 York Place. The Association is an international body of Catholic laymen who meet once a month and offer friendship and support to Catholic men at all stages of their lives. We would like to extend our group, sharing friendship and faith in our community. For more information contact John Russell on 01555 728032, membership@thecatenians.com

Christmas Gifts at St. Pauls Bookshop: Bibles, Rosaries, DVDs and more!

Our new St Pauls Bookshop offers a wide range of Christian literature, Bibles, rosaries, holy cards, religious objects, music, DVDs and more. Varieties of Christmas cards and crib sets are available. Find your perfect Christmas gift! Hours are 10:00am to 5:30pm, including weekends (closed Mondays). Contact 0131 510 4260 or edinburgh@stpauls.org.uk, or visit https://www.stpauls.org.uk

Coffee Saints Café: Enjoy a Coffee, Cake, Lunch or All-Day Brunch

Visit the Cathedral’s award-winning Coffee Saints café where all profits go to charity! Coffee Saints is social enterprise partnership between the Cathedral and the Grassmarket Community Project. Every time you make a purchase at Coffee Saints you support some of Edinburgh’s most vulnerable people. You can book online through itison for a Coffee & Traybake or Brunch for two or an Afternoon Tea at https://bit.ly/CoffeeSaintsDeals. View festive opening hours and full menu at https://www.coffeesaints.co.uk/

Many Options Available to Support St. Mary’s Cathedral Parish

We are very grateful to all our parishioners who generously donate to help St. Mary’s Cathedral parish. We have a variety of options available for supporting the parish:

• Contactless: We have two contactless donation devices in the Cathedral, which you may prefer to use instead of handling notes and loose change.

• Gift Aid: Gift Aid is another way of raising money for the parish. It is a government-led initiative whereby UK taxpayers may register for Gift Aid with the Cathedral and/or with St Andrew’s such that the government will give an additional 25% of the value of donations made during the year to the charity, at no additional cost to the donor. Many of you are already registered, but if not, do contact our finance officer, Caroline, on finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk if you are interested.

• Online: The Cathedral website also has a ‘donate’ button on our website menu (to see the menu, click on the three lines in the top right corner of the main page) which has the added advantage of allowing you to ‘Gift Aid’ any donations you make at the time that you make them. Become a Friend of the Cathedral: You can find more details about how to become a Friend by going to our website www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/friends

• Other: We have a page on the ‘easyfundraising’ website. www.easyfundraising.org.uk is a website through which you can shop at various retailers online while simultaneously raising a small percentage for your chosen charity at no additional cost to you! By registering as a supporter of a particular charity (we are listed as St Mary’s Metropolitan Cathedral), you can then search for your chosen retailer and, if listed, open their website and shop as normal. With Christmas just around the corner, many retailers are offering ‘double-donations’, increasing their usual percentage donation to the selected charity.

Rorate Mass on Thursday at 7pm

Our beautiful and popular candlelight Advent Rorate Masses conclude on Thursday, 22nd December at 7:00pm at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. There will be confessions after the Mass this week – a great way to prepare for Christmas.

New Year Dates for Your Diary

Some dates for your brand new diaries! From Sunday 15th January there will be a Holy Hour every Sunday from 2pm in St Andrew’s Ravelston which will conclude with Benediction at 3pm. Please do make some time to pop in and visit the Blessed Sacrament. Also, from Sunday 26th February the Youth Group (ages from P3 to S1) will return with its regular Sunday evening meetings, starting at 6pm with games, a chance to learn about the faith and time to prayer. Don’t forget the tuckshop too!

January St. Andrew’s Talk on the Eucharist

Mark your diary for our next talk on Monday 9th January when Fr James Cadman will speak on the Eucharist and especially the beautiful devotion of Eucharistic Adoration. Soup & sandwiches will follow!

Holy Hour 6pm with Archbishop Cushley Tonight at Gillis Chapel

Tonight, Sunday, 18 December, at 6:00pm Archbishop Cushley begins the first in a series of monthly Holy Hours with Eucharistic Adoration at St Margaret’s Chapel at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, to pray for “insight, courage and joy in our mission,” as part of the Synod 2023. Holy Hours will be held at the same time and place on Tue 10 Jan, Sun 12 Feb, Sun 12 Mar. No registration required.

2023 Diploma in Catechetics, Begins Thursday, 12th January

Register online today to learn about the richness and depth of the Catholic spiritual tradition with course leader Sr Anna Marie McGuan, RSM in the 2023 Diploma in Catechetics course which begins Thursday, 12th January. She and a range of guest speakers bring you lectures, with guided reading, conversations, retreats, and supplementary courses available. The year-long course costs £200 (concessions available), with weekly sessions by Zoom webinar on Thursdays at 7:30pm (1hr max) and includes regular one-to-one sessions with Sr Anna Marie or another course leader. To learn more and read testimonials, visit https://archedinburgh.org/register-now-for-the-diploma-in-catechetics-2023/

Online Talk by Sr. Anna Marie on Different Forms of Prayer

Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM hosts the final 30 minute online Advent talk on different forms of prayer on Monday 19 December at 7:30pm. No registration required, just use the following link on the night to join: https://bit.ly/adventtalks22 (Zoom event). Catch up with previous talks on the Archdiocesan YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/ArchYouTube

Online Prayer Event for Young Catholic Adults Aged 20-40

Join us for a post-Christmas rosary and reflection via Zoom on Tues 27th December, 8:00-8:30pm. Our events are a great opportunity to meet and socialise with other young adults. For more info and tickets email: 2040network@gmail.com

Monthly Chats for Women About Religious Life Begin in January

Thinking about a vocation to the religious life? Join other young Catholic women to chat and explore God's will in five monthly get-togethers in Edinburgh. Led by Sr Mirjam Hugens FSO, the first one takes place on Sunday 29 January, 4-7pm at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street. It is a chance to pray, share and discuss in a relaxed environment, and refreshments will be served. The series continues on the last Sunday of each month at the same time/venue: 26 Feb, 26 Mar, 30 Apr, 28 May. To register or find out more, please email religiousvocations@staned.org.uk

Free Retreat for Married & Engaged Couples on Saturday, 11th February

A free half-day retreat offers couples a chance to reflect on their love and commitment to each other, to God and to their community. It will be led by Annette and Paul O’Beirne, of Equipes Notre-Dame (Teams of Our Lady), which supports married couples in their vocation. They will share some of the stories and tools gathered over their 42 years together. The retreat will be 2-5pm, Saturday 11 February at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. Register at http://bit.ly/valentineretreat

Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine & Co. Mayo, Ireland in April 2023

A pilgrimage to Knock Shrine is being organized in April 2023 for the parishes within Scotland with day trips to Westport, Ballintubber Abbey, Croagh Patrick, Fr. Peyton Centre & National Museum. Cost is £699.00 per person sharing. Price includes flight, all transfers, 4 nights in Knock House Hotel with full board. Contact Patricia on 01268 762 278 or 07740 175557 or email knockpilgrimages@gmail.com

Mary’s Meals – Double the Love, Big Family Christmas Table & Gift Cards

Looking for the perfect present for your loved ones? Say it with school meals for poor children and make a real difference to the lives of children and communities. Until 31 January 2023, donations made to Mary's Meals through all our gift cards, life-changing gifts and Big Family Christmas will be matched by a group of generous supporters, up to £1.5 million. You can transform the lives of two children by sending our popular £15.90 gift card or setting a place at our Big Family Christmas table! Find out more at https://shop.marysmeals.org.uk/

Read the newsletter for 18th December (pdf)

Third Sunday of Advent – Year A

Seminarians Paul Henderson and Peter Shankland

Christmas Masses 2022

St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral

Christmas Eve, Saturday 24th December:

6:00pm Mass

9:00pm Mass (Polish)

11:15pm Carols and Readings

Midnight Mass

Christmas Day, Sunday 25th December:

10.30am Mass

12noon (Polish) Mass

6:00pm (Polish) Mass

St Andrew’s Church, Ravelston

Christmas Eve, Saturday 24th December:

5:30pm Carols & Readings

6:00pm Mass

Christmas Day, Sunday 25th December:

10.30am Mass

Rorate Mass with Archbishop Tomorrow at 7pm

The Archbishop will be the main celebrant at the Rorate Mass tomorrow (Monday) evening at 7pm. After the Mass he will bless the new crib outside the Cathedral and then he will join us in Coffee Saints for Mulled Wine and Mince Pies. It will be a lovely occasion- please join us for the Candlelit Mass.

Chapter Mass – Tuesday at 12.45pm

The Cathedral’s Chapter of Canons will gather on Tuesday, 13th December. Archbishop Cushley will celebrate the Mass at 12.45pm, joined by the other members of the chapter.

Over Sixties Club – Tuesday at 2.30pm

All over 60 are welcome to our wonderful Over Sixties Club events this week including Tuesday 13th December 2.30 - 4pm, Coffee Afternoon at Coffee Saints, and Wednesday 14th December our last group cinema outing for the year Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical, upstairs in Omni at 1.10pm. Next week will be our final week of activities ‘till the New Year.

Young Adults Advent Talk – Tuesday at 7pm

Our Young Adults Advent Talks – ‘Images of Advent’ – continues on Tuesday, 13 December, with a talk on ‘John the Baptist’ by Fr. Robert and a concluding talk on 20 December by His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, ‘The Annunciation’. After Night Prayer in the Cathedral we will gather at a local pub for refreshments!!

Catholic Men: Catenians’ Membership Meeting on 21st December

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a Membership meeting Wednesday 21st December, from 7.00 p.m.-9.00 p.m. in 63 York Place. The Association is an international body of Catholic laymen who meet once a month and offer friendship and support to Catholic men at all stages of their lives. We would like to extend our group, sharing friendship and faith in our community. For more information contact John Russell on 01555 728032, membership@thecatenians.com

Hand-Made Knitted Hats and Toys for Sale in Octagon

Beautiful knitted hats and soft toys hand-made by our own parishioners Anne Macaulay and Joanna Kopystynska are available for sale at bargain prices in the Octagon after all Masses. Shop for a Christmas gift for someone you love! All proceeds benefit the Cathedral! The items are also available at https://www.kathedralknits.etsy.com

Light from Light: Schola Cantorum Concerts

The Cathedral’s Schola Cantorum performed marvellously last week in its tour of the Archdiocese with a series of choral concerts by candlelight. The octet will perform its final concert at St Margaret's Memorial Church in Dunfermline on Friday, 16 December at 8pm. We thank Michael, Tom, and the singers as they go out as musical ambassadors for the Cathedral, and continue to treat parish audiences to some of what we are used to enjoying week-on week!

Votive Candles

Please note that only the small candles provided in the box next to the candle stands may be used. Please do not use or leave ANY other candles in the church. Also, please do not put any papers near or in the votive candles since this is a major fire hazard. Thank you for your cooperation.

Going fast!....Last of the 2023 Cathedral Diaries on Sale after Mass

Nearly all the diaries have sold and this weekend is the last chance to support the Cathedral and give the perfect Christmas gift of our 2023 Cathedral Diary! Diaries are priced at a very reasonable £10 each. All proceeds support the Cathedral.

Thank you…

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

Special Cathedral Cleaning Day: Saturday 28th January, 1.30 – 4pm

We intend to have a Spring Cleaning Day on Saturday 28th January, between 1.30 and 4 and are looking for volunteers to help out on a one off basis. If you think you might be able to spare the time, please put the date in your diary. Closer to the time, we will be asking for names and numbers to make sure we have enough cleaning equipment.

Admitted to Candidacy!

Seminarians Paul Henderson and Peter Shankland from our Cathedral parish were among those admitted to Candidacy for ordination to the Diaconate by Bishop Paul Tighe at the Pontifical Beda College in Rome on 7th December. They will both be ordained to the Diaconate on 14th June 2023. Please continue to keep them both in your prayers!

Young People Invited to Set Up Christmas Crib Today at 1:00pm

The outdoor Christmas crib will be set up today at 1:00pm. It is a great tradition that our young people have helped out with this task in previous years, so all are invited to come and help out. Hot chocolate and hard hats will be provided!

Last Youth Group Meeting on Sunday night with Games & Pizza!

Tonight the Youth Group will meet for the final time before the Christmas break. All P3-S1 are welcome at St Andrew’s Parish Rooms, Ravelston from 6-7.30. The evening starts with games, includes activities on the faith and this week will finish with pizza! We look forward to seeing you there.

Thank You…

…to everyone who came out for the celebration of the Solemnity of St Andrew last week. It was great to have so many gather for Mass and then join for a wonderful meal prepared by Mairi-Angela, Kate and Robbie in celebration of our patron. Thanks, too, to those members of the social committee involved with preparing the event which raised £277 for the parish fund. Next date for your diary is Thursday 15th December, when refreshments will be available after the blessing of the Ravelston crib at the end of the Rorate Mass.

Upcoming St. Andrew’s Talk on the Eucharist

Thanks to Sr Miriam Fidelis RSM for her wonderful presentation on the beautiful ‘O Antiphons’ that the Church prayers in the final few days before Christmas and to those of you who turned out. Mark your diary for our next talk on Monday 9th January when Fr James Cadman will speak on the Eucharist and especially the beautiful devotion of Eucharistic Adoration. Soup and sandwiches will follow!

Bacon Roll Charity Thank you!

A huge thank you to our very generous parishioners who supported our Bacon Roll Charity last Sunday for Kindred. We raised a total of £615. Special thanks to the willing and delightful helpers who made it a smooth and fun morning.

2023 Diploma in Catechetics, Begins Thursday, 12th January

Register online today to learn about the richness and depth of the Catholic spiritual tradition with course leader Sr Anna Marie McGuan, RSM in the 2023 Diploma in Catechetics course which begins Thursday, 12th January. She and a range of guest speakers bring you lectures, with guided reading, conversations, retreats, and supplementary courses available. The year-long course costs £200 (concessions available), with weekly sessions by Zoom webinar on Thursdays at 7:30pm (1hr max) and includes regular one-to-one sessions with Sr Anna Marie or another course leader. To learn more and read testimonials, visit https://archedinburgh.org/register-now-for-the-diploma-in-catechetics-2023/

Let Us Pray: Online Talks on Different Forms of Prayer

Rediscover prayer as we await anew the gift of life in Jesus. Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM leads this series of three 30 minute online talks on different forms of prayers - vocal, meditative, contemplative – 12th and 19th December at 7:30pm on Zoom. No registration required, just use the following link on the night to join any of the talks: https://bit.ly/adventtalks22

Monthly Chats for Women About Religious Life Begin in January

Thinking about a vocation to the religious life? Join other young Catholic women to chat and explore God's will in five monthly get-togethers in Edinburgh. Led by Sr Mirjam Hugens FSO, the first one takes place on Sunday 29 January, 4-7pm at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street. It is a chance to pray, share and discuss in a relaxed environment, and refreshments will be served. The series continues on the last Sunday of each month at the same time/venue: 26 Feb, 26 Mar, 30 Apr, 28 May. To register or find out more, please email religiousvocations@staned.org.uk

Sunday Holy Hours with Archbishop Cushley at St. Margaret’s Chapel

Join Archbishop Cushley for Eucharistic Adoration at St Margaret’s Chapel at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, to pray for “insight, courage and joy in our mission,” as part of the Synod 2023. It takes place at 6pm on the following dates: Sun 18 Dec, Tue 10 Jan, Sun 12 Feb, Sun 12 Mar. No registration required, just turn up and pray.

Save the Date: Valentine’s Retreat for Couples on 11th February

This free half-day retreat offers couples a chance to reflect on their love and commitment to each other, to God and to their community. It will be led by Annette and Paul O’Beirne, of Equipes Notre-Dame - Teams of Our Lady, which supports married couples in their vocation. They will share some of the stories and tools gathered over their 42 years together. The retreat takes place from 2-5pm on Saturday 11 February at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB (free parking onsite). Register at https://bit.ly/valentineretreat

Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine & Co. Mayo, Ireland in April 2023

A pilgrimage to Knock Shrine is being organized in April 2023 for the parishes within Scotland with day trips to Westport, Ballintubber Abbey, Croagh Patrick, Fr. Peyton Centre & National Museum. Cost is £699.00 per person sharing. Price includes flight, all transfers, 4 nights in Knock House Hotel with full board. Contact Patricia on 01268 762 278 or 07740 175557 or email knockpilgrimages@gmail.com

Read the newsletter for 11th December (pdf)

Second Sunday Of Advent – Year A

Rorate Masses by Candlelight on Mondays of Advent at 7pm

Our beautiful and popular candlelit Rorate Masses at the Cathedral begin tomorrow, Monday, 5th December at 7:00pm, and will be celebrated on the following two Mondays. The Mass is accompanied by flickering candlelight in an otherwise dark church with beautiful music to help us lift up our hearts to God. These are lovely occasions – do bring your children and come along to prepare well for Christmas.

New Crib Scene for Outside the Cathedral

For many years we have felt that it would be lovely to have a proper large outdoor crib scene in front of the Cathedral during the Christmas period. Then, out of the blue last year, we “inherited” a full set of crib figures from the parish in Pittenweem. This spurred us into action (!) and we have, in the meantime, commissioned and had built a beautiful (and vandal-proof) Manger which will sit at the top of the Cathedral steps and be visible across the whole of Picardy Place. Hopefully this will add grace and beauty to the city and will help people to realise the true significance of Christmas. To mark the occasion, Archbishop Leo will celebrate the Rorate Mass next Monday, 12th December, at the end of which he will bless the new crib. We will then retire to Coffee Saints for delicious mulled wine and mince pies! This has been a major project (!) so please do come along and celebrate its completion on Monday week.

Light from Light: Our Schola Cantorum is on Tour this Advent!

In the coming weeks, the Cathedral’s Schola Cantorum will tour the Archdiocese with a series of choral concerts by candlelight. This will be the first time the choir has shared its wonderful choral singing beyond the Cathedral walls in quite this way. The octet will perform to audiences in St Francis Xavier's Church in Falkirk on 7 December, St Patrick's Church in Kilsyth on 10 December, and St Margaret's Memorial Church in Dunfermline on 16 December, with all concerts starting at 8pm. We wish Michael, Tom, and the singers all the very best as they go out as musical ambassadors for the Cathedral, and as they treat parish audiences to some of what we are used to enjoying week-on week!

2023 Cathedral Diaries on Sale after Mass

Support the Cathedral and give the perfect Christmas gift of our 2023 Cathedral Diary, which is on sale after all Masses this weekend! This is a very special spiritual and practical gift for Christmas, with all the holy days marked. Diaries are priced at a very reasonable £10 each. All proceeds support the Cathedral. Our wonderful Cathedral Schola Cantorum’s CD With Angels and Archangels is also available — for a special Advent price of £10. The CD includes music by Palestrina, James MacMillan, and our own Director of Music, Michael Ferguson. Both can be purchased online at https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/store

Kathedral Knits Christmas Gifts to Support the Cathedral

Knitted goods for Christmas are on sale after the Noon Mass today by parishioner Joanna Kopystynska. The items are also available at www.kathedralknits.etsy.com. All the profits from these sales are generously donated by Joanna to the Cathedral. Sales will be held on the following two Sundays, as well!

Parish Youth Group Meets on Sunday

All those in P3-S1 are invited to join our Parish Youth Group tonight at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston between 6 & 7.30pm to meet new friends, play, and learn about our Catholic faith! Don’t forget some spending money for the tuck shop! The evening begins at 6pm. Any questions, please speak to Fr. Robert or email frrobert.taylor@staned.org.uk Reminder: Next Sunday is our last Youth Group meeting of the year.

Young Adults Advent Talks

Our Young Adults Advent Talks – ‘Images of Advent’ – begin on Tuesday, 6 December with Fr. Albert Robertson, OP, on The Immaculate Conception. Then on 13 December, we will have a talk on ‘John the Baptist’ by Fr. Robert and a concluding talk on 20 December by His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, ‘The Annunciation’. As always, after Night Prayer in the Cathedral we will gather at a local pub for some refreshment.

Over Sixties Club – Farewell to Graham Burnett on Tuesday, 6 December

On Tuesday 6th December, our Over Sixties Club will host a farewell for Graham Burnett, Engagement Officer for the Over 60s Community, 2.30 – 4:00pm at Coffee Saints. This will be an opportunity to say goodbye to Graham as he not only leaves the Grassmarket Community Project, but also Edinburgh. We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible. The Over Sixties Club are looking to continue meeting and organising events, so keep an eye on this notice for news. The Book Club will relocate to another venue in the New Year, with news to follow when it has been finalised.

Catholic Men: Catenians’ Membership Meeting on 21st December

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a Membership meeting Wednesday 21st December, from 7.00 p.m.-9.00 p.m. in 63 York Place. The Association is an international body of Catholic laymen who meet once a month and offer friendship and support to Catholic men at all stages of their lives. We would like to extend our group, sharing friendship and faith in our community. For more information contact John Russell on 01555 728032, membership@thecatenians.com

St Andrew’s Talk Tomorrow at 6.45pm

Our next talk in our St. Andrew's Talk series will be tomorrow evening, 5th December at 6:45pm with Sister Miriam Fidelis, RSM on the beautiful ‘O Antiphons’ that are a prominent feature of the liturgy of the Church in the days closest to Christmas. After the talk there will be soup and sandwiches and a chance to discuss.

Ravelston Rorate Masses Begin this Thursday, 8th December

This week we begin our beautiful and popular candlelit Rorate Masses at St. Andrew’s, scheduled on Thursdays at 7:00pm starting 8th December, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Rorate Mass originated during the course of the Middle Ages as one of the various popular Advent devotions to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Do come along and bring your children!

We are in need of helpers for the Rorate Masses to set up the candles around the church and to tidy them up after the Mass! If you can assist for any of these Masses, then please sign up on the sheets at the back of church or contact cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Young People Invited: Christmas Crib Set Up Sunday 11 December 1:00pm

The outdoor Christmas crib will be set up next Sunday, 11th December at 1:00pm. It is a great tradition that our young people have helped out with this task in previous years, so all are invited to come and help out. Hot chocolate and hard hats will be provided!

Today after Mass: Bacon Roll Charity to Support Kindred

Come and enjoy a late brunch, stay or take away, in the Parish Rooms at Ravelston after 10:30am Mass today at our Bacon Roll Charity for Kindred, a charity that helps families who have a child with complex needs. Any donation on the day will be appreciated! Vegetarian option available.

2023 Diploma in Catechetics, Begins Thursday, 12th January

Register online today to learn about the richness and depth of the Catholic spiritual tradition with course leader Sr Anna Marie McGuan, RSM in the 2023 Diploma in Catechetics course which begins Thursday, 12th January. She and a range of guest speakers bring you lectures, with guided reading, conversations, retreats, and supplementary courses available. Modules cover the Sacraments, Scripture, Christology, Moral Theology and more. The year-long course costs £200 (concessions available), with weekly sessions by Zoom webinar on Thursdays at 7:30pm (1hr max) and includes regular one-to-one sessions with Sr Anna Marie or another course leader. To learn more and read testimonials, visit https://archedinburgh.org/register-now-for-the-diploma-in-catechetics-2023/

Let Us Pray: Online Talks on Different Forms of Prayer

Rediscover prayer as we await anew the gift of life in Jesus. Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM leads this series of three 30 minute online talks on different forms of prayers - vocal, meditative, contemplative - on Monday 5, 12, and 19 December at 7:30pm on Zoom. No registration required, just use the following link on the night to join any of the talks: http://bit.ly/adventtalks22

Online Advent Rosary for Life at 7:45pm on Wednesdays

Join people from across the Archdiocese to pray for unborn children, their mothers and all pro-life intentions. Includes a reflection from a priest of the Archdiocese each week. Each Wednesday in Advent, 7:45pm – 8:20pm. Register at http://bit.ly/archprolifeevents (Zoom event).

Explore God’s Will for You: Sunday Chats for Women on Religious Life

Thinking about a vocation to the religious life? Join other young Catholic women to chat and explore God's will in five monthly get-togethers in Edinburgh. Led by Sr Mirjam Hugens FSO, the first one takes place on Sunday 29 January, 4-7pm at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street. It is a chance to pray, share and discuss in a relaxed environment, and refreshments will be served. The series continues on the last Sunday of each month at the same time. To register, please email religiousvocations@staned.org.uk

Make Your Voice Heard: Government Survey on the Future of Education

Make sure Catholic voices are heard in the national discussion on the future of education in Scotland! Submit your response to the Scottish Government’s 10-question survey by 5 Dec at https://bit.ly/scotedsurvey

Free Hot Food This Winter for People on Low Incomes

LifeCare Edinburgh’s Meals on Wheels service offers fresh, hot meals delivered for those over 50 on Universal Credit or Pension Credit in north Edinburgh. The Warm Space café has free soup and hot drinks available 3:30pm-6:30pm on Saturdays and Sundays at the LifeCare Centre in Stockbridge,

2 Cheyne Street. For more information call 0131 343 0940 or visit http://www.lifecare-edinburgh.org.uk

Blessing of the “Bambinelli” on Sunday 18th December

The beautiful Advent Tradition, Bambinelli Sunday, was instituted by Saint Pope John Paul II during his Papacy. The tradition follows that on the last Sunday of Advent children and adults bring their Baby Jesus figures from their homes to Mass where they are blessed.

Parishes around the world now join in the celebration, encouraging young children to make the connection between the Nativity set at home and the local church where they worship each weekend.

Pope Francis says: “It helps children and young people to prepare for Jesus.”

This year we will celebrate 'Bambinelli Sunday' on December the 18th. Please remember to bring your baby Jesus figures to Mass that Sunday for blessing.

Stella Maris Carol Concert in Leith on 7th December

Stella Maris (Apostleship of the Sea) is holding a carol service on Wednesday 7 December at 7pm in St Mary’s Star of the Sea, 106 Constitution St., Leith, followed by a reception at 8 pm. All are welcome.

Read the newsletter for 4th December (pdf)

First Sunday Of Advent – Year A

St Andrew’s Vigil and Feast Day at the Cathedral This Week

Join us to celebrate the feast day of our National Patron on Tuesday 29th November for the Vigil of the Feast of St. Andrew at the Cathedral. We will have Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament from 7pm which will conclude with Evening Prayer I of the feast at 8pm and Benediction. All are welcome! On the Feast Day itself, Wednesday 30th November, Archbishop Leo Cushley will celebrate 12.45pm Mass.

Young Adults: Social After St. Andrew’s Vigil, Advent Talks

All young adults ages 18-35 are welcome to join us for a social in 63 York Place following the St. Andrew’s Vigil on Tuesday, 29th November. The following week our Young Adults Advent Talks – ‘Images of Advent’ – begin on Tuesday, 6 December with Fr. Albert Robertson, OP, on The Immaculate Conception. Then on 13 December, we will have a talk on ‘John the Baptist’ by Fr. Robert and a concluding talk on 20 December by His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, ‘The Annunciation’. As always, after Night Prayer in the Cathedral we will gather at a local pub for some refreshment.

Parish Youth Group Meets Tonight

All those in P3-S1 are invited to join our Parish Youth Group tonight at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston between 6 & 7.30pm to meet new friends, play, and learn about our Catholic faith! Don’t forget some spending money for the tuck shop! The evening begins at 6pm. Any questions, please speak to Fr. Robert or email frrobert.taylor@staned.org.uk

St. Pauls Bookshop Now Open!

Our new St Pauls Bookshop is now open at St. Mary’s Cathedral. Hours are 10:00am to 5:30pm, including weekends (closed Mondays). Come and shop at the only Catholic bookshop in the East of Scotland. The shop offers a wide range of Christian literature, cards, religious objects, music, DVDs, visual resources, religious education materials and more. Find your perfect Christmas gift!

2023 Cathedral Diaries and Cathedral Schola CDs on Sale

Our 2023 Cathedral Diary is on sale after all Masses this weekend! This is a very special spiritual and practical gift for Christmas, with all the holy days marked. All proceeds support the Cathedral. Priced at a very reasonable £10 each. In addition, the CD With Angels and Archangels by the Cathedral’s Schola Cantorum is also available for a special Advent price of £10. The CD includes music by Victoria and Palestrina, Lotti, Rheinberger, Duruflé, James MacMillan, and Michael Ferguson. Both can be purchased online at https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/store

Kathedral Knits Christmas Gifts to Support the Cathedral

Knitted goods for Christmas are on sale after the Noon Mass today by parishioner Joanna Kopystynska. The items are also available at www.kathedralknits.etsy.com. All the profits from these sales are generously donated by Joanna to the Cathedral. Sales will be held after the Noon Mass on 4 December, 11 December and 18 December.

Rorate Masses by Candlelight on Mondays: 5th, 12th, 19th December

We will have our beautiful and popular candlelit Rorate Masses at the Cathedral on Monday nights at 7:00pm on 5th, 12th and 19th December. The Mass is celebrated accompanied by flickering candlelight in an otherwise dark church with beautiful music to help us lift up our hearts to God. These are lovely occasions – do bring your children and come along to prepare well for Christmas.

Outdoor Crib Blessing on Monday, 12th December

His Grace, the Archbishop, will be here on Monday, 12th December to celebrate the Rorate Mass at 7:00pm and then immediately following the Mass to bless our new outdoor Christmas crib. Mulled wine and mince pies will be on sale in Coffee Saints after the blessing. Plan to come along!

Helpers Needed: Rorate Masses & Christmas Masses

The Cathedral is in need of helpers for the 7:00pm Rorate Masses (5th, 12th and 19th December) to assist in preparing the Cathedral (laying out candles, welcoming people, etc) prior to the Masses and tidying up afterwards. You would need to be available from 6.15pm. Helpers are also needed for our Christmas Masses to welcome people, to serve as Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, Readers and taking up the collections. If you can assist for any of these Masses, then please contact Elizabeth Andrews at Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com or sign up on the sheets at the back of the Cathedral.

Crux Magazine of Friends of the Cathedral Available Today

Pick up your limited edition first issue copy of Crux today. At only £5, with all proceeds benefitting the Cathedral, enjoy articles and features written by Archbishop Cushley, Fr Jamie and some of our own pilgrims who journeyed to the Holy Land earlier this year. Crux is a must-read over the Christmas season for you and your family and the perfect keepsake for Cathedral visitors. Crux is the new magazine for all Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral, who receive this magazine straight their door. Join at https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/friends

Final Collection of Christmas Gifts for Prisoners’ Children

This is our last weekend for collection Christmas gifts for children of prisoners in Edinburgh (Saughton). We ask that gifts are new, wrapped in Christmas gift wrap, and with a label attached stating whether the gift is suitable for a boy or a girl and the age of the child. Gifts for older children from 11 years upwards would be most appreciated. A collection box will be at the back of both churches.

Over Sixties Club

All those 60 and over are welcome to join our Over Sixties Club. Upcoming events are Tuesday 29th November, 2.30 - 4pm Coffee Afternoon at Coffee Saints, Thursday 1st December 1.30pm, trip to Jonny Walker Experience, meet at 1:45 Princes Street (old House of Fraser at West End).

Catholic Men: Catenians’ Membership Meeting on 21st December

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a Membership meeting Wednesday 21st December, from 7.00 p.m.-9.00 p.m. in 63 York Place. The Association is an international body of Catholic laymen who meet once a month and offer friendship and support to Catholic men at all stages of their lives. We would like to extend our group, sharing friendship and faith in our community. For more information contact John Russell on 01555 728032, membership@thecatenians.com

First Saturday Devotions

Next Saturday, 3 December, 9:30am there will be devotions to Our Lady of Fatima here in the Cathedral, followed by 10:00am Mass. All are welcome!

Second Collection Today for Catholic Education

A second collection will be taken up today for the Scottish Catholic Education Service. Thank you!

Final Chance! Tickets for Supper for Feast of St Andrew at Ravelston

Come and join us for a St Andrew’s supper on the feast day of the parish patron, Wednesday 30th November in the parish rooms at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. Celebrate this important day in the calendar of our community and country with Mass at 6pm and then join for supper at 7pm. Supper will be a sit-down meal. Bring a bottle! So we can cater correctly, please pick up your tickets after Mass this weekend. Final chance!

Rorate Masses by Candlelight on Thursdays, Crib Blessing 15th December

We will have our beautiful and popular candlelit Rorate Masses on Thursdays at 7pm at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston on 8th, 15th and 22nd December. The Rorate Mass originated during the course of the Middle Ages as one of the various popular Advent devotions to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Do come along and bring your children to these beautiful liturgies of Advent! Mark your diary – on Thursday, 15th December there will be a blessing of our beautiful outdoor crib immediately following the Mass.

Helpers Needed for St. Andrew’s Rorate Masses

We are in need of several helpers for the 7:00pm Rorate Masses on Mondays, 8th, 15th and 22nd December to set up the many candles around the church for these beautiful Masses, welcome people who attend, as well as tidy up the candles after the Mass. Families are most welcome to come along as helpers! If you can assist for any of these Masses, then please sign up on the sheets at the back of church or contact cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk. If you can help before Mass, please be available from 6.15pm, or if you can help after Mass, please plan to stay until about 8:15pm.

St Andrew’s Talks: O Antiphons –Announcing the Long-Awaited Messiah

Our next talk in our St. Andrew's Talk series will be on Monday 5th December with Sister Miriam Fidelis, RSM on the beautiful ‘O Antiphons’ that are a prominent feature of the liturgy of the Church in the days closest to Christmas. After the talk there will be soup and sandwiches and a chance to discuss. Please RSVP at cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk or phone 0131 556 1798 if you plan to attend!

Bacon Roll Charity on Sunday 4 December

Come and enjoy a late brunch, stay or take away, in the Parish Rooms at Ravelston after 10:30am Mass on Sunday, 4 December at our Bacon Roll Charity for Kindred, a charity that helps families who have a child with complex needs. Any donation on the day will be appreciated! Vegetarian option available.

Fabric Update: Side Gate

The side gate at Ravelston is fully functional again. This will only be open around Mass times. Thank you for your patience.

Sunday Holy Hours with Archbishop Cushley

Join Archbishop Cushley for Eucharistic Adoration at St Margaret’s Chapel at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, to pray for “insight, courage and joy in our mission,” as part of the Synod 2023. It takes place at 6pm on the following Sundays: 18 Dec, 8 Jan, 12 Feb, 12 Mar. No registration required, just turn up and pray.

Light from Light: Choral Music for Advent by Candlelight

This December be uplifted with a candlelit Advent music concert from our own Schola Cantorum of St. Mary’s Cathedral at one of three upcoming concerts in the Archdiocese:

• St Francis Xavier's in Falkirk on Wednesday 7 December

• St Patrick's in Kilsyth on Saturday 10 December

• St Margaret's in Dunfermline on Friday 16 December

All concerts 8pm. Pay at the door on the night or get your £5 ticket (family ticket £10) at https://bit.ly/3T7wRRY

‘Entering Advent with Isaiah’ with Fr Jamie McMorrin

Join an online talk titled ‘Entering Advent with Isaiah’ with Fr Jamie McMorrin of St Margaret’s in Davidson’s Mains on Monday 28 November at 7:30pm-8:30pm. Register now at http://bit.ly/enteradvent

Advent Talks with Sr. Anna Marie McGuan, RSM

Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM will give a series of Advent talks at 7:30pm on Monday 5, 12, and 19 December. No registration required, just join any of the talks at https://bit.ly/adventtalks22

Advent Rosary for Life

Wednesday, 30th November, 7.45pm online with Fr John Deighan, Parish Priest at SS John Cantius and Nicholas in Broxburn and also Vicar Episcopal for Education. Register: https://bit.ly/archrosary1

Explore God’s Will for You: Sunday Chats for Women on Religious Life

Thinking about a vocation to the religious life? Join other young Catholic women to chat and explore God's will in five monthly get-togethers in Edinburgh. Led by Sr Mirjam Hugens FSO, the first one takes place on Sunday 29 January, 4-7pm at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street. It is a chance to pray, share and discuss in a relaxed environment, and refreshments will be served. The series continues on the last Sunday of each month at the same time/venue: 26 Feb, 26 Mar, 30 Apr, 28 May. To register or find out more, please email religiousvocations@staned.org.uk

Read the newsletter for 27th November (pdf)

Solemnity Of Our Lord Jesus Christ King Of The Universe – Year C

St. Pauls Bookshop Grand Opening next Saturday!

Our new St Pauls Bookshop will open here at St. Mary’s Cathedral this Saturday, 26 November. Come and shop at the only Catholic bookshop in the East of Scotland which will offer a wide range of Christian literature, cards, religious objects, music, DVDs, visual resources, religious education materials and more. Buy the perfect Christmas gift! Hours are 10:00am to 5:30pm, including weekends (closed Mondays). Thank you to Fr. Baji and Fr. Shinto of the Society of St Paul for all their hard work!

Young Adults Talk: ‘I Believe in the Life of the World to Come’

The final talk of our Young Adults series on the Creed will be this Tuesday, 22nd November. All those age 18-35 are very welcome. Our speaker will be Fr. Andrew Garden on ‘I Believe in the Life of the World to Come.’ We’ll meet 63 York Place at 7:00pm for teas/coffees followed by the talk at 7:30pm and a short group discussion. After Night Prayer in the Cathedral, we will gather at a local pub for some refreshment.

Young Adults Advent Talks: ‘Images of Advent’

Our Young Adults Advent Talks – ‘Images of Advent’ – begin Tuesday, 6 December with Fr. Albert Robertson, OP, on The Immaculate Conception. On 13 December, we will have a talk on ‘John the Baptist’ by Fr. Robert and a concluding talk on 20 December by His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, ‘The Annunciation’. As always, after Night Prayer in the Cathedral we will gather at a local pub for some refreshment.

Parish Youth Group Meets Tonight

Thanks to so many who joined us last week for our Youth Group visit to St. Margaret’s, Davidson’s Mains last Sunday! All those in P4-P7 are invited to join us between 6 & 7.30pm to meet new friends, play, and learn about our Catholic faith! Don’t forget some spending money for the tuck shop! The evening begins at 6pm. Any questions, please speak to Fr. Robert or email frrobert.taylor@staned.org.uk

Advent Faith Sharing Group

We are holding a small Faith Sharing Group to help us prepare for Christmas at 63 York Place on the five Saturdays before Christmas. The group will meet on Saturdays 12:30pm-2:00pm to pray together and share our Faith journey in the light of scripture readings. If interested, please contact Lis at ejherschan@aol.com

St Andrew’s Vigil and Feast Day at the Cathedral

Join us to celebrate the feast day of our National Patron next week! On Tuesday 29th November for the Vigil of the Feast of St. Andrew at the Cathedral there will be Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament from 7pm which will conclude with Evening Prayer I of the feast at 8pm and Benediction. All are welcome. On the Feast Day itself, Wednesday 30th November, Archbishop Leo Cushley will celebrate 12.45pm Mass.

2023 Cathedral Diaries on Sale Next Weekend

Our 2023 Cathedral Diary will be on sale next weekend after Masses! This is a very special spiritual and practical gift for Christmas, with all the holy days marked, and prayers and quotes from saints included in each month. All proceeds support the Cathedral. Priced at a very reasonable £10 each.

Kathedral Knits Christmas Gifts to Support the Cathedral

Knitted goods for Christmas will be available for sale after the Noon Mass next Sunday by our own wonderful parishioner Joanna Kopystynska. The items are also available at www.kathedralknits.etsy.com

All the profits from these sales are generously donated by Joanna to the Cathedral. In addition to next Sunday, sales will be held on 4 December, 11 December and 18 December.

Thank You from Fr. Jamie and Fr. John Peter

“Thank you so much for the wonderful send-off last Friday - it was lovely to be back at the Cathedral and see so many familiar faces. Thank you for your cards and kind words and for all the happy memories I take with me. Thank you in particular for the extremely generous gift. It's my intention to have a Marian vestment made which will help me to remember with sincere gratitude my time at the Cathedral and all of you. Thank you!” Fr. Jamie

“Dear All, Thanks for a lovely evening. I sincerely thank Monsignor Patrick Burke and team for arranging this wonderful surprise party and farewell gift. I have enjoyed my time at this great company – such a wonderful group of people of St. Mary’s Cathedral and St. Andrew’s Ravelston. I will miss you terribly and thank you for the period we were together and ask you to keep praying for me as am praying for you. With gratitude,” Fr John Peter

Volunteers Needed: Flower Arrangers and Cleaners

We are looking to recruit more volunteers to join our flower arranging teams. There are currently four teams, who meet either mid-morning/early afternoon on a Friday and each team is led by an experienced volunteer, so lack of experience is not a barrier! In addition, we are looking for more cleaning team members for our Cathedral. The cleaning team meet every Wednesday afternoon between 2pm – 4pm to clean our lovely Cathedral. If you cannot attend every week, helping once or twice per month would be greatly appreciated! To find out more about volunteering as a flower arranger or cleaning team member, please contact Elizabeth Andrews at elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com or sign up on the clipboards at the back of church this weekend.

Rorate Masses by Candlelight on Mondays: 5th, 12th, 19th December

We will have our beautiful and popular candlelit Rorate Masses at the Cathedral on Monday nights at 7:00pm on 5th, 12th and 19th December. The Mass is celebrated accompanied by flickering candlelight in an otherwise dark church with beautiful music to help us lift up our hearts to God. These are lovely occasions – do bring your children and come along to prepare well for Christmas.

Helpers Needed: Rorate Masses & Christmas Masses

The Cathedral is in need of helpers for the 7:00pm Rorate Masses (5th, 12th and 19th December) to assist in preparing the Cathedral (laying out candles, welcoming people, etc) prior to the Masses and tidying up afterwards. You would need to be available from 6.15pm. Helpers are also needed for our Christmas Masses, to welcome people, assist with Communion, Reading and Money collecting. If you can assist for any of these Masses, then please contact Elizabeth Andrews at Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com or sign up on the sheets at the back of the Cathedral.

Christmas Gifts for Prisoners’ Children – Last Collection is Next Weekend

We are collecting Christmas gifts for children of prisoners in Edinburgh (Saughton) Prison this weekend and next weekend, which will be our last collection. We ask that gifts are new, wrapped in Christmas gift wrap, and with a label attached stating whether the gift is suitable for a boy or a girl and the age of the child. Gifts for older children from 11 years upwards would be most appreciated. A collection box will be at the back of both churches both this weekend and Saturday 26th /Sunday 27th November.

Coffee Saints Receives “One to Watch” Scottish Social Enterprise Award

Earlier this month, Coffee Saints won the "One to Watch" at the Scottish Social Enterprise Awards. Catherine Jones, Social Enterprise Director also picked up the award for "Social Enterprise Champion." As Scottish award winner for the one to watch, Coffee Saints has gone through to the UK finals on 8th December in London. Visit the award-winning Coffee Saints! You can book online through itison for a Coffee & Traybake or Brunch for two or an Afternoon Tea at https://bit.ly/CoffeeSaintsDeals

Over Sixties Club: Coffee Afternoon, Cinema Outing and Book Club

We warmly welcome anyone 60 and over to join us in our Over Sixties Club. This week’s events are:

• Coffee Afternoon at Coffee Saints Tuesday 22nd November, 2.30 - 4pm

• Cinema Outing, Wednesday 23rd November. Meet upstairs at Omni Centre at 1.10pm for `The Banshees of Imisherin’

• Book Club, Thursday 24th November, 2.30 - 4pm at Coffee Saints

SSVP Christmas Mass and Lunch – RSVP by Thursday, 24 November

The Society of St Vincent de Paul (SSVP) Christmas Mass and lunch preparations are well underway.

If anyone who comes to the Over Sixties Club events would like to attend the 12Noon SSVP Mass and lunch following in Coffee Saints on Saturday, 3 December, please contact Trish on 07716963215 to get details and a sign up form. All forms must be received by Thursday 24th November.

Catholic Men: Catenians’ Membership Meeting on 21st December

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a Membership meeting Wednesday 21st December, from 7.00 p.m.-9.00 p.m. in 63 York Place. The Association is an international body of Catholic laymen who meet once a month and offer friendship and support to Catholic men at all stages of their lives. We welcome visitors to come along and join us at our meetings and take part in our informal chat with Members and visitors alike. We would like to extend our group, sharing friendship and faith in our community. You can look us up on https://www.thecatenians.com/ for more information contact John Russell on 01555 728032 or email John at membership@thecatenians.com

Parish Mass and Supper for Feast of St Andrew at Ravelston

Come and join us for a St Andrew’s supper on the feast day of the parish patron, Wednesday 30th November in the parish rooms at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. Celebrate this important day in the calendar of our community and country with Mass at 6pm and then join for supper at 7pm. Supper will be a sit-down meal. Bring a bottle! So we can cater correctly, please pick up your tickets after Mass this weekend.

Rorate Masses by Candlelight: Thursdays, 8th, 15th and 22nd December

We will have our beautiful and popular candlelit Rorate Masses on Thursdays at 7pm at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston on 8th, 15th and 22nd December. The Rorate Mass originated during the course of the Middle Ages as one of the various popular Advent devotions to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Do come along and bring your children to these beautiful liturgies of Advent!

Bacon Roll Charity on Sunday 4 December

Come and enjoy a late brunch, stay or take away, in the Parish Rooms at Ravelston after 10:30am Mass on Sunday, 4 December at our Bacon Roll Charity for Kindred, a charity that helps families who have a child with complex needs. Any donation on the day will be appreciated!

Ravelston Friday Café Paused

Our weekly café on Fridays is now taking a break. Thanks to all who have attended over the past months.

Sunday Holy Hours with Archbishop Cushley

Join Archbishop Cushley for Eucharistic Adoration at St Margaret’s Chapel at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, to pray for “insight, courage and joy in our mission,” as part of the Synod 2023. It takes place at 6pm on the following Sundays: 18 Dec, 8 Jan, 12 Feb, 12 Mar. No registration required, just turn up and pray.

Light from Light: Choral Music for Advent by Candlelight

This December be uplifted with a candlelit Advent music concert from our own Schola Cantorum of St. Mary’s Cathedral at one of three upcoming concerts in the Archdiocese:

• St Francis Xavier's in Falkirk on Wednesday 7 December

• St Patrick's in Kilsyth on Saturday 10 December

• St Margaret's in Dunfermline on Friday 16 December

All concerts 8pm. Pay at the door on the night or get your £5 ticket (family ticket £10) at bit.ly/3T7wRRY

‘Entering Advent with Isaiah’ with Fr Jamie McMorrin

Join an online talk titled ‘Entering Advent with Isaiah’ with Fr Jamie McMorrin of St Margaret’s in Davidson’s Mains on Monday 28 November at 7:30pm-8:30pm. Register now at bit.ly/enteradvent

Advent Talks with Sr. Anna Marie McGuan, RSM

Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM will give a series of Advent talks at 7:30pm on Monday 5, 12, and 19 December. No registration required, just join any of the talks at bit.ly/adventtalks22

Second Collection Next Weekend for Catholic Education

A second collection will be taken up for the Scottish Catholic Education Service next weekend.

Read the newsletter for 20th November (pdf)

Thirty-Third Sunday Of The Year – Year C

St. Pauls Bookshop

Grand Opening!

Saturday, 26 November, 10:00am

After many months of trials and tribulations I am delighted to announce the opening of our new bookshop here at St. Mary’s Cathedral. It is (more or less) the only religious bookshop in the East of Scotland and will offer a wide range of Christian literature, cards, religious objects, music, DVDs, visual resources, religious education materials and more. Shop for the perfect Christmas gift and find your perfect stocking filler! Hours are 10:00am to 5:30pm, including weekends (closed Mondays).

Advent Faith Sharing Group

We are holding a small Faith Sharing Group to help us prepare for Christmas at 63 York Place on the five Saturdays before Christmas. We will have our first meeting on Saturday, November 19th, 2022, 12:30pm-2:00pm. We will pray together and share our Faith journey in the light of scripture readings. Everyone is most welcome whatever your age or background. If interested, please contact Lis at ejherschan@aol.com.

Youth Group Tonight: Visit to St. Margaret’s, Davidson’s Mains

Tonight’s Youth Group meeting will be at St Margaret’s, Davidson’s Mains, Main Street, Davidson’s Mains, EH4 5AD. The change is venue is to do with the upcoming feast of St Margaret. This evening the young people will learn more about this great Queen and Saint of Scotland and have the opportunity to pray before her relic. The evening begins at 6pm and will finish with a pizza supper at 7.30. We look forward to seeing you there! Any questions, please speak to Fr. Robert or email frrobert.taylor@staned.org.uk.

Young Adults Talk 15th November: ‘I Believe in the Forgiveness of Sins’

All those age 18-35 are very welcome to join our Young Adults Group for our next talk this Tuesday, 15th November as we continue our series on the Creed. Our speaker will be Fr. Edward Toner on ‘I Believe in the Forgiveness of Sins.’ We’ll meet 63 York Place at 7:00pm for teas/coffees followed by the talk at 7:30pm and a short group discussion. After Night Prayer in the Cathedral, we will gather at a local pub for some refreshment. The final talk in this series will be next week, 22nd November!

Young Adults Advent Talks: ‘Images of Advent’

….and we will have a series of Young Adults Advent Talks – ‘Images of Advent’ – beginning Tuesday, 6 December with Fr. Albert Robertson, OP, on The Immaculate Conception. Then the following week on 13 December, we will have a talk on ‘John the Baptist’ by Fr. Robert and a concluding talk on 20 December by His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, titled ‘The Annunciation’. Don’t miss this opportunity to contemplate these beautiful images of Advent! As always, after Night Prayer in the Cathedral we will gather at a local pub for some refreshment.

St Andrew’s Vigil and Feast Day at the Cathedral

Make time in your diary this year to celebrate the feast day of our National Patron. At the Cathedral there will be Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on the Vigil of St. Andrew on Tuesday 29th November from 7pm which will conclude with Evening Prayer I of the feast at 8pm and Benediction. All are welcome. On Wednesday 30th November, Archbishop Leo Cushley will celebrate Mass for the Feast at 12.45. It was Andrew who, famously, brought Peter to Jesus – this feast day is your opportunity in a special way – to go to Jesus, through Andrew.

Online Talks for Advent

‘Entering Advent with Isaiah’ with Fr Jamie McMorrin

Mark the beginning of Advent with an online talk titled ‘Entering Advent with Isaiah’ with Fr Jamie McMorrin, of St Margaret’s in Davidson’s Mains, Edinburgh. It takes place on Zoom, Monday 28 November at 7:30pm-8:30pm. Register now at bit.ly/enteradvent

Advent Talks with Sr. Anna Marie McGuan, RSM

Join Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM for a series of 30-minute Advent talks at 7:30pm on Monday 5, 12, and 19 December. No registration required, just use the following link on the night to join any of the talks: bit.ly/adventtalks22

Christmas Gifts for Prisoners’ Children – This Weekend and Next

We are collecting Christmas gifts for children of prisoners in Edinburgh (Saughton) Prison this weekend and next weekend. We ask that gifts are new, wrapped in Christmas gift wrap, and with a label attached stating whether the gift is suitable for a boy or a girl and the age of the child. Gifts for older children from 11 years upwards would be most appreciated. A collection box will be at the back of both churches for the depositing of gifts both this weekend and Saturday 19th /Sunday 20th November. Please be as generous as you have been in past years. Many thanks in advance!

Volunteers Needed!

Cathedral Flower Arranging Team

As we hope you have noticed, we always have a beautiful display of flowers in the Cathedral. These are prepared by wonderful teams of volunteers who take it in turn to meet on a Friday to arrange the flowers in preparation for the weekend Masses. We are looking to recruit more volunteers to join our teams. There are currently four teams, who meet either mid-morning/early afternoon on a Friday and each team is led by an experienced volunteer, so lack of experience is not a barrier!

Cathedral Cleaning Team

The Cathedral cleaning team meet every Wednesday afternoon between 2pm – 4pm to clean our lovely Cathedral. 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!

To find out more about volunteering as a flower arranger or cleaning team member, please contact Elizabeth Andrews at elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com or sign up on the clipboards at the back of church this weekend.

Kathedral Knits Christmas Gifts to Support the Cathedral

Over the next few weeks, Knitted goods for Christmas will be available for sale after Mass in the Cathedral and in Ravelston by our own wonderful parishioner Joanna Kopystynska. The items are also available at www.kathedralknits.etsy.com

All the profits from these sales are generously donated by Joanna to the Cathedral. Sales will be after the Noon Mass at the Cathedral, on Sunday, 27 November, 4 December, 11 December and 18 December.

Over Sixties Club: Coffee Afternoon and Dynamic Earth Outing

Anyone 60 and over is welcome to join our Over Sixties Club for coffee and cakes at Coffee Saints on Tuesday, November 15th at 2.30pm. Come along for an outing to Dynamic Earth on Friday November 18th. Please meet outside the Scottish Parliament (where the flag poles are!) at 1.30pm. No pre-booking.

Want to be Catholic?

Our Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) group is meeting weekly on Tuesdays for all those interested in learning about how to become Catholic. Join us in Cathedral House, 61 York Place each Tuesday 7:00pm-8:30pm. To register, please contact cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk.

2022-2023 Marriage Preparation Courses

The next Marriage Preparation courses are 10am-5pm on Saturday, 19th November 2022; Saturday, 28th January 2023; and Saturday, 20th May 2023. To register, email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk.

Noon Rosary at the Cathedral

Join us for a Noon Rosary at Our Lady’s Altar from Monday to Friday each week. All are welcome!

St Mary's Playgroup for Children Ages 2 to 7, Monday-Friday Mornings

St Mary's Playgroup at St Mary's RC Primary School, East London Street, Edinburgh; welcomes children from two and a half years old, up to entry to Primary school (during school holidays we can take children up to 7 years of age). Term Time & School Holidays: Monday to Friday 9:00am to 12 Noon (Playgroup closes for 2 weeks at Christmas). Price: £11 per child per day. For information contact stmarysplaygroup@aol.com, 0131 556 1634 or visit https://stmarysplaygroup.weebly.com.

‘Mercy Behind Bars’: Scottish Catholic Magazine’s 11th November Issue

The Scottish Catholic magazine’s 11th November issue has arrived, with the cover story ‘Mercy Behind Bars’ featuring our own parishioner Barbara Dickson on “the faith that inspires her fight for prisoners.” Copies are available for just £2 on the table in the Octagon. Get yours while supplies last! Please put monies in the box at the pillar after you enter the Cathedral.

Mark Your Diary! Mass and Supper for Feast of St Andrew

You are welcome to join us for a St Andrew’s supper on the feast day of the parish patron, Wednesday 30th November in the parish rooms at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. Come along and celebrate this important day in the calendar of our community and country with Mass at 6pm and then join for supper at 7pm. Supper will be a sit-down meal. Please bring your own bottle for drinks! So we can cater correctly, please pick up your tickets after Mass this weekend.

St Andrew’s Talks

Thanks to everyone who turned out on Monday evening for our latest talk in the St Andrew’s Talks series from Sister Roseann Reddy of the Sisters of the Gospel of Life. Our next talk will be on Monday 5th December. Please do come along and hear from Sister Miriam Fidelis, RSM about and learn of the beautiful ‘O Antiphons’ that are a prominent feature of the liturgy of the Church in the run up to Christmas. After the talk there will be soup and sandwiches and a chance to discuss these beautiful antiphons which all relate to the identity of Christ.

World Day for the Poor

Today World Day for the Poor. This year’s theme is “For your sakes Christ became poor” (2 Cor 8:9). Pope Francis asks us to pray for those facing poverty in our communities and across the world. You can also show practical support by supporting a charity that serves the poor, such as the Society of St Vincent de Paul (www.ssvpscotland.com) or SCIAF (www.sciaf.org.uk), the official aid and development agency of the Catholic Church in Scotland.

Sunday Holy Hours with Archbishop Cushley

Join Archbishop Cushley for Eucharistic Adoration at St Margaret’s Chapel at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, to pray for “insight, courage and joy in our mission,” as part of the Synod 2023. It takes place at 6pm on the following Sundays: 18 Dec, 8 Jan, 12 Feb, 12 Mar. No registration required, just turn up and pray.

Cost of Living Help & Advice Drop-In Events, Friday 18 November

Deidre Brock MP and Ben Macpherson MSP are hosting a joint ‘Cost of Living Help & Advice Event’ in their capacity as representatives of Edinburgh North and Leith. There will be two drop-in sessions on Friday 18th November: 10.00am-12.00noon at Leith Community Centre, 12A Newkirkgate, EH6 6AD and 2.30pm-4.30pm at Royston Wardieburn Community Centre, 11 Pilton Drive North, EH5 1NF

Light from Light: Choral Music for Advent by Candlelight

This December be uplifted with a candlelit Advent music concert from our own Schola Cantorum of St. Mary’s Cathedral at one of three upcoming concerts in the Archdiocese:

• St Francis Xavier's in Falkirk on Wednesday 7 December

• St Patrick's in Kilsyth on Saturday 10 December

• St Margaret's in Dunfermline on Friday 16 December

All concerts 8pm. Pay at the door on the night or get your £5 ticket (family ticket £10) at bit.ly/3T7wRRY

Read the newsletter for 13th November (pdf)