Eleventh Sunday of Ordinary Time – Year A

Congratulations to Deacon Paul Henderson and Deacon Peter Shankland

Congratulations to Deacon Paul Henderson and Deacon Peter Shankland, both faithful members of this parish, who were ordained as deacons for the Archdiocese on Wednesday 14th June in the Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls in Rome. Our pilgrimage group of 52 parishioners and our Schola Cantorum choir attended the ordination Mass. Please keep both deacons in your prayers as they study for the priesthood.

Event Preview Tomorrow on Zoom, 7:30pm-8:00pm

‘Searching for Jesus in the Gospel of Mark’

Watch a 30-minute Event Preview conversation with Fr. Patrick and Sr Anna Marie McGuan RSM tomorrow, Monday 19 June, on Zoom from 7:30pm-8:00pm to find out more about our upcoming ‘Searching for Jesus in the Gospel of Mark’ mini course at the Cathedral. The Event Preview Zoom link is available here: http://bit.ly/cathedralpreview

The course with Prof. James Edwards will be held the week of 23-27th October from 7pm-9pm each evening and tickets are on sale now on Eventbrite. Visit https://bit.ly/Jesus-in-GospelofMark to book your place today! The mini course will be a wonderful opportunity to get to know the Scriptures better, but also to get to know Jesus better. Ticket options include weeklong tickets (£50 with tea/coffee or £75 with a glass of wine at the interval), a single night ticket (£10 with tea/coffee) and a pre-event light supper deal (£50 for one supper each evening for all 5 nights provided by Coffee Saints).

Tickets on Sale for Parish Potluck Social, Saturday 24th June

Join us for our parish potluck Social Evening on Saturday, 24th June, 7pm-10pm in Coffee Saints café, Little King Street — a wonderful opportunity to meet your fellow parishioners. Tickets are on sale after all Masses this weekend or you can secure a ticket by emailing the parish office and paying on the night: Adults £10, Children £5, including hot food and choice of dessert. All proceeds benefit the Cathedral. A cash bar will be available for cocktails, wine, beer and soft drinks. If you can bring a dish or would like to volunteer please email the parish office at cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk or call 0131 556 1798.

Comings and Goings…

Just to let you know that there are some moves happening early August for the Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma, Michigan, who have been based in our parish for almost seven years and who have made an invaluable contribution to the life of the parish. Sister Mary Pierre, who has been with us since 2016, will be moving to Phoenix, Arizona and Sister Anna Marie to Breuberg, Germany. Their presence in the parish in Ravelston has been a great support to me and the other priests, as well as to all of you. We thank both Sisters for their generous service and offer them prayers and best wishes in their new roles. They will be greatly missed by us all. Sister Miriam Fidelis remains in her role at the Cathedral; she will be the Superior and will be joined at St Andrew’s Convent by two other Sisters. Please keep all of the Sisters in your prayers!

Young Adults Day Trip to Melrose Abbey, Abbotsford

All young adults ages 18-35 are welcome to join us for our day trip to Melrose and Abbostford on Saturday 24th June. On the day, meet at Edinburgh Waverley the top of platforms 5 and 6 for 9.30am. Then we will walk from Tweedbank Station to Melrose Abbey, Abbotsford for Mass in the chapel used by St John Henry Newman, and then onto Galashiels. Please bring sensible footwear and a rain jacket- it is Scotland after all! To register, please contact Fr. Robert Taylor, FrRobert.Taylor@stan.ed.org.uk

Saturday Morning Eucharistic Adoration

Take some time for quiet, peaceful prayer before Jesus Christ in the Eucharist here at the Cathedral. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is celebrated every Saturday 10:30am-12:00pm in the Cathedral. Come for 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour…. or more. You may want to pray the Rosary or read the Scriptures, mediating on the readings for Sunday Mass. Saturday Confessions are from 10:30am-12:00pm.

Catenians Meeting on Wednesday at 7:00pm

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a meeting this Wednesday, 21st June at 7.00 p.m.-8.00 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

Save the Dates: Festival Mass and Sacred Arts Concert

Sunday, 13 August: His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, will celebrate the annual Festival Mass at Noon at the Cathedral. Join us for this beautiful celebration of our Sunday Liturgy at the start of the week of our Cathedral’s patronal feast of the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 15th August in the season of Edinburgh’s International Festival.

Monday, 14 August: Acclaimed composer Paul Mealor will join us at St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral for a special performance of his music by the Schola Cantorum, in partnership with Edinburgh Festival of the Sacred Arts. As one of the world’s most performed living composers, Paul will talk to director of music Michael Ferguson about the sources of inspiration for his music, and the process of composing his works. It’ll be a unique opportunity to hear not only Paul’s stunning choral music, but also from the man himself.

Summer Sacraments Classes for Adults Begin 16th August

Are you an adult who has not yet received the Sacrament of Confirmation, or have you been baptised but have not received First Confession, First Holy Communion or Confirmation in the Catholic Church? Consider joining us this August, when the Cathedral will be offering a sacraments course for adults. Meetings will be held weekly in Cathedral House on Wednesdays at 7:00pm from 16th August to 27th September (Zoom meetings on 30th August and 20th September). Those participating will be prepared to receive the sacraments they need. Adult Confirmation will take place at Mass on Saturday, 30th September at 10am Mass in the Cathedral. To register or for more information, contact cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Parish Retreat 22-24 September 2023 at St Mary’s Monastery, Kinnoull

We will have a Parish retreat in September and many have already signed up. Spaces are still available! The Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral have organised the retreat for the whole parish on 22-24 September this year in the idyllic St Mary’s Monastery in Kinnoull (near Perth). The theme of the retreat is Allowing Jesus to Love You, and it will be led by Fr Charlie Corrigan CSsR. Places are limited so please book now. The all-inclusive price is £200 (this includes a £50 non-returnable deposit). To book please email ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

2023 Marriage Preparation Courses

Our next Marriage Preparation courses are Saturday 2nd September and Saturday 18th November at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston, 10am-5pm, with presentations by married couples from the parish. Please email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk to register.

New Rosaries and Devotional Prayer Books at St Pauls Bookshop

Looking for a gift for a loved one? The St Paul Bookshop has received a new stock of beautiful rosaries and devotional prayer books, as well as a resupply of statues of Jesus and Mary. These are all very popular items and there are many to choose from! You can always shop the second-hand bookshelf, too, and find a treasure to enjoy for your spiritual reading this summer. Donations of used Catholic books in good condition are welcome! Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm (closed Mondays), 0131 510 4260, edinburgh@stpauls.org.uk

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

Afternoon Tea Thank You

A big Thank You to all the bakers, helpers and those who attended our parish Afternoon Tea on 9th June! The ticket sales came to £210, which has been allocated to the fund for refurbishment of the Church room.

Each Wednesdays 5:00pm Adoration & Confession

On Wednesday evenings Eucharistic Adoration and Confessions are available at St Andrew’s. Adoration begins at 5:00pm, concluding at 5:45pm, with Mass at 6:00pm.

Save the Date: Ravelston Parish Barbecue on Sunday 3rd September

The annual St Andrews parish barbecue will take place on Sunday September 3rd this year, 12:30pm.

It's always a very enjoyable afternoon and a great opportunity to get involved and meet fellow parishioners both old and new. We will of course need volunteers on the day. More details will follow over the summer, but in the meantime.....save the date!

Job Vacancy: Director of Property

The Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh is seeking to appoint a Director of Property (full-time) to provide management and oversight of all church properties within the Archdiocese and also of Mount Vernon Cemetery. For full job details and how to apply visit https://bit.ly/propertydirector2023m Closing date for applications is Thursday 29 June. Interviews scheduled for Thursday 6 July.

Theology MA Programme at St Mary’s University Edinburgh Campus

The MA in Applied Catholic Theology offered by St Mary’s University in Scotland begins in September. The campus is at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Rd, EH9 1BB. The course provides a thorough grounding in key aspects of Catholic theology and develops the skills to apply that theology to the challenges and opportunities of the contemporary world. Learn more and register at https://www.stmarys.ac.uk/edinburgh

Vocations Mass This Friday at St. Margaret’s, South Queensferry

The next Mass to pray for Vocations to the priesthood and religious life is at 7pm on Friday 23 June at St Margaret’s, Hope View, Loch Road, South Queensferry, EH30 9LS. To read more about discerning a vocation to the priesthood and religious life, visit https://archedinburgh.org/vocations/

Help for Marriages: Online Retrouvaille Programme 6th- 9th July

Retrouvaille is a programme to support couples who have difficulties in their marriage. The programmes bring new hope and help nourish your marriage. Retrouvaille England and Wales is delighted to offer an online Retrouvaille programme 6th- 9th July 2023. Learn more at https://www.retrouvaille.org.uk

The Way of St. Andrews Scottish Pilgrimage

Enjoy being a pilgrim in Scotland! Try one of the eight great pilgrim ways wending their way quietly through Scotland’s diverse and scenic landscape to St Andrews. Great trails, great scenery and a great opportunity for reflection. To plan your pilgrimage route and get more information please visit http://www.thewayofstandrews.com/

And finally…Don’t forget to Visit Coffee Saints Café Today – All Day Brunch!

Our very popular Coffee Saints café is a social enterprise partnership between the Cathedral and the Grassmarket Community Project. This means that every time you make a purchase at Coffee Saints you support some of Edinburgh’s most vulnerable people. Browse the full menu, including All Day Brunch, Lunch Stuff and delicious Thick Shakes, Smoothies and Coolers at https://www.coffeesaints.co.uk/. All kids meals £5.75 plus a free Fruit Shoot! Of course, there are coffees, teas and even Superfood Lattes. The café is open 7 days a week 9:00am-4:00pm! You can book online through itison for a Coffee & Traybake or Brunch for two at https://bit.ly/CoffeeSaintsDeals

Read the newsletter for 18th June (pdf)

Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood Of Christ – Year A

Ordination of Peter and Paul

As you know Fr. Robert and I are away in Rome this week with 52 parishioners to attend the ordination of our two seminarians. Please keep them in your prayers on Wednesday and please keep us in your prayers as well that we have a safe trip. There is no 10am Mass this week while we are away.

Voting Rights for Church Representatives

Edinburgh City Council is to vote on a motion (addendum) which proposes the removal of voting rights of Church Representatives on its Education, Children and Families Committee. If this motion is carried it will pose a serious threat to the capacity of the Church to influence decisions regarding Catholic education and Catholic schools. Postcards are available at the back of the church so you can send to your councillor(s) to make your feelings known. Template letters are also available (an editable Word version of the letter is available at https://bit.ly/edinletterdownload

Find out who your councillor is at https://bit.ly/edinburghcouncillors Please act quickly to ensure councillors know your viewpoint before they vote on Thursday 22 June.

Get to Know Jesus Better: ‘Searching for Jesus in the Gospel of Mark’

October Mini Course Tickets Available Now!

Tickets are on sale now for our ‘Searching for Jesus in the Gospel of Mark’ mini course with Prof. James Edwards from the USA to be held each evening of the week 23-27th October here in the Cathedral 7-9pm. It is open to all and will be a wonderful opportunity to get to know the Scriptures better, but also to get to know Jesus better. Ticket options include weeklong tickets, either £50 with tea/coffee or £75 with a glass of wine at the interval, a single night ticket at £10 with tea/coffee and a pre-event light supper deal for £50 for one supper each evening for all 5 nights provided by Coffee Saints. Visit https://bit.ly/Jesus-in-GospelofMark book your place today!

Fabric Update from Alice

Having struggled to get tradesmen here, we have now had a busy period when they have all wanted to come at the same time! The Sanctuary window is being repaired and due for return the week of 7th August, when the smaller windows will also receive attention. As I write, the Cathedral roof survey is taking place and engineers are here attempting to get the fire alarm in the Café and Bookshop fully up and running following the replacement of a failed element of the system. In Sacristy 1, the worn lock on the door to the Sanctuary has been repaired and a quadrant of the ceiling where there had been a small fall has been removed and is awaiting replacement. Some of you may have noticed that the Processional Cross we normally use has been absent the last couple of weeks as this had become extremely wobbly and is in for repair. A quote for the replacement of the taps in the toilets has been accepted and we are awaiting a date for the work to occur. Outside, a loose step is being reseated and, while the better weather lasts, the front of the Cathedral is being sprayed with algicide to remove the green tinge. The effects should become apparent over the next few weeks, although the building will remain grimy. Roof works to a number of leaks at Cathedral House are also in train and due to take place in July/August. Finally, we have set the date for the next special cleaning day in the Cathedral which will be the Saturday 30th September. Please put the date in your diary and I will be asking for volunteers closer to the time. Thank you for your help!

Parent & Baby Group: Wednesday 12.45pm Mass, Then Coffee Saints

Are you a new parent looking to meet fellow Catholic parents to socialize and share our faith? Join us for 12.45pm Mass on Wednesday, followed by coffee and a chat at Coffee Saints next door. All parents and babies welcome, particularly those on maternity or paternity leave. If you would like to be involved, email Angus Hawkins (angus.f.hawkins@gmail.com) or Antonia Shack (afmshack@gmail.com).

Summer Sacraments Classes for Adults Begin 16th August

Are you an adult who has not yet received the Sacrament of Confirmation, or have you been baptised but have not received First Confession, First Holy Communion or Confirmation in the Catholic Church? Consider joining us this August, when the Cathedral will be offering a sacraments course for adults. Meetings will be held weekly in Cathedral House on Wednesdays at 7:00pm from 16th August to 27th September (Zoom meetings on 30th August and 20th September). Those participating will be prepared to receive the sacraments they need. Adult Confirmation will take place at Mass on Saturday, 30th September at 10am Mass in the Cathedral. To register or for more information, contact cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon

Our over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon will be Tuesday 13th June, 2.30pm - 4pm at Coffee Saints. Newcomers are very welcome! Come along and join us!

Young Adults Day Trips to Abbotsford, St Andrews

Come along on a day trip to places of significance for the Catholic faith in Scotland. Both trips will be by train from Edinburgh Waverley. Join us for our trip to Melrose and Abbotsford on Saturday 24th June. On the day, meet at the top of platforms 5 and 6 for 9.30am. Then we will walk from Tweedbank station to Melrose Abbey, Abbotsford – where we will celebrate Mass in the chapel used by St John Henry Newman, and then onto Galashiels. Please bring sensible footwear and a rain jacket- it is Scotland after all! Train departs Waverley at 9.43am, returns to Waverley for 5.15pm. For more information and to register, please contact Fr. Robert Taylor, FrRobert.Taylor@stan.ed.org.uk

Parish Retreat 22-24 September 2023 at St Mary’s Monastery, Kinnoull

We will have a Parish retreat in September and many have already signed up. Spaces are still available! The Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral have organised the retreat for the whole parish on 22-24 September this year in the idyllic St Mary’s Monastery in Kinnoull (near Perth). The theme of the retreat is Allowing Jesus to Love You, and it will be led by Fr Charlie Corrigan CSsR. Places are limited so please book now. The all-inclusive price is £200 (this includes a £50 non-returnable deposit). To book please email ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Save the Dates: Festival Mass and Sacred Arts Concert

Sunday, 13 August: His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, will celebrate the annual Festival Mass at Noon at the Cathedral. Join us for this beautiful celebration of our Sunday Liturgy at the start of the week of our Cathedral’s patronal feast of the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 15th August in the season of Edinburgh’s International Festival.

Monday, 14 August: Acclaimed composer Paul Mealor will join us at St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral for a special performance of his music by the Schola Cantorum, in partnership with Edinburgh Festival of the Sacred Arts. As one of the world’s most performed living composers, Paul will talk to director of music Michael Ferguson about the sources of inspiration for his music, and the process of composing his works. It’ll be a unique opportunity to hear not only Paul’s stunning choral music, but also from the man himself.

Weekly Cathedral Updates By E-Mail

Receive the Cathedral newsletter straight into your inbox! Stay in touch with the Cathedral through the weekly e-newsletter. Sign up at the ‘Stay in Touch’ section on the bottom of this page, or bookmark this page in your browser at https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/news

Each Wednesdays 5:00pm Adoration & Confession

On Wednesday evenings Eucharistic Adoration and Confessions are available at St Andrew’s. Adoration begins at 5:00pm, concluding at 5:45pm, with Mass at 6:00pm.

Save the Date: Ravelston Parish Barbecue

The annual St Andrews parish barbecue will take place on Sunday September 3rd this year, 12:30pm.

It's always a very enjoyable afternoon and a great opportunity to get involved and meet fellow parishioners both old and new. We will of course need volunteers on the day. More details will follow over the summer, but in the meantime.....save the date!

St Margaret’s Pilgrimage to Dunfermline – 18th June

St Margaret’s Pilgrimage returns to Dunfermline on Sunday 18 June. Mass is at 2:30pm in St Margaret’s Memorial Church in East Port, with Archbishop Cushley as principal celebrant. Ecumenical service at 12:30pm in Dunfermline Abbey, followed by prayers at the tomb of St Margaret.

St. Dominic and His Preachers of Grace: Friday 23 June – Saturday 24 June

Come and explore what lies at the heart of being a Dominican! The Dominicans will host a two-day conference in Edinburgh in June to share what they have done, are doing and could do in the future. Speakers include Fr Timothy Radcliffe, OP as well as other Friars, Sisters and Lay Dominicans. The event includes a Noon Mass on Saturday 24 June at the Cathedral, celebrated by His Grace, Archbishop Cushley. Book at https://scotland.op.org/preachersofgrace/

Compassion to Hope: Celebrating Migrants, Refugees & Asylum Seekers

An event to celebrate the lives of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers in Scotland, with ‘music, poetry, silence and celebration’. This event takes place in the hall of Sacred Heart Church, 28 Lauriston Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9DJ on Tuesday 20 June at 4:30pm.

YouCAN Summer BBQ in the Lake District, 14th-16th July

All young Catholic aged 18+ are very welcome to spend a weekend networking with other young Catholic adults from all across the UK, July 14 - July 16, cost £110. What’s included? Walks, BBQ, live band of talented YouCAN musicians, Mass, picnic, swimming and more! We are also very privileged to have with us for the weekend the Bishop of Lancaster who will be leading us on one of the hikes! To book or for more information, contact rina@youngcatholicadultnetwork.uk

Applications Open for New ‘Public Bioethics Fellow’

The Anscombe Centre, an Oxford-based research institute serving the Catholic Church in the United Kingdom and Ireland, has opened applications for a new position: Public Bioethics Fellow. The principal responsibility of the person taking this role will be to facilitate the effective communication of the Catholic Church’s moral teaching as it bears on bioethics to a healthcare professionals, biomedical scientists, those training for the medical and nursing professions and other university students, the Catholic and wider Christian community, and the general public. Closing date is 15th June. Full details available at https://bioethics.org.uk/news-events/news-from-the-centre/new-anscombe-job-advertisement-public-bioethics-fellow/

Shalom World  Free Catholic Movies, News, Shows and More

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

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

Rachel's Vineyard retreats for spiritual and emotional healing after abortion will be held on 28-30 July 2023 in Midlands and 6-8 October 2023 in Glasgow area. This confidential, supportive retreat is powerful for anyone who has been affected by their own or someone else’s abortion experience. For more information in the Midlands retreat, please call or email Rachel at 07734 059 080 or rachelmackenzie1@hotmail.co.uk, and for the Glasgow retreat please call or email Sr. Andrea at 07816 942 824 or sisterandrea@rachelsvineyard.org.uk Further details at https://rachelsvineyard.org.uk

Summer Retreat at Pluscarden Abbey

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

Read the newsletter for 13th June (pdf)

Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity – Year A

Save the Date: October 23-27, 2023

Scripture Event!

In order to help you (and people across the Diocese) to come to know Jesus better through the Gospel, I have invited Prof. James Edwards to come from the USA to present a short course on the Gospel of Mark in October this year. The “mini course” will take place each evening of the week 23-27th October here in the Cathedral from 7-9pm. It will be open to all and will be a wonderful opportunity to get to know the Scriptures better, but also hopefully to get to know Jesus better. There will be a lot more information about this event coming out soon – but I just want to you note the dates at this stage and to begin to think if this is something you would benefit from.

Special Collection for Presentation to Peter and Paul

As you know, next week on June 14th two of our parishioners will be ordained to the Diaconate. Fr. Robert and I are going to Rome for the ordination with a group of 50 parishioners. At the reception afterwards, I would like to be able to present the two with a gift from the parish. The norm is, of course, a cheque. To this end, we will have a retiring collection at the end of all Masses this weekend for a presentation to the two new Deacons. Thank you so much, in advance, for your kindness!

Windows Repairs begin this Week,

No 10:00am Mass

Due to the start of the windows repairs in the Cathedral this week, the 10am Mass is cancelled while workers carry out repairs during the mornings. Thank you for your patience during this time of repairs!

Vincent Wallace Memorial Concert next weekend

On Saturday 10 June at 7:45pm St Andrew Camerata will perform a special concert in the Cathedral to celebrate the life of former St Mary's choir director Vincent Wallace. The evening will feature a performance of Gabriel Fauré's Requiem and Cantique de Jean Racine, plus other assorted Camerata favourites conducted by Roderick Bryce. Entry by donation.

Youth Group Outing to Carfin and Coatbridge on Saturday 10th June

Thank you to all those who came along to the Youth Group meetings this month. The Sunday evening meetings have now finished for the summer. However, there is still time to register for the Youth Group outing on Saturday 10th June to Carfin Grotto. All children Primary 3 – S1 are welcome. After lunch, the group will then make a stop at Hollywood Bowl in Coatbridge! You can register via the QR code or e-mail Fr. Robert today, frrobert.taylor@staned.org.uk. Places are limited and filling up fast, so first come first served!

Parent & Baby Group: Wednesday 12.45pm Mass, Then Coffee Saints

Are you a new parent looking to meet fellow Catholic parents to socialize and share our faith? Join us for 12.45pm Mass on Wednesday, followed by coffee and a chat at Coffee Saints next door. All parents and babies welcome, particularly those on maternity or paternity leave. If you would like to be involved, email Angus Hawkins (angus.f.hawkins@gmail.com) or Antonia Shack (afmshack@gmail.com).

Summer Sacraments Classes for Adults Begin 16th August

Are you an adult who has not yet received the Sacrament of Confirmation, or have you been baptised but have not received First Confession, First Holy Communion or Confirmation in the Catholic Church? Consider joining us this August, when the Cathedral will be offering a sacraments course for adults. Meetings will be held weekly in Cathedral House on Wednesdays at 7:00pm from 16th August to 27th September (Zoom meetings on 30th August and 20th September). Those participating will be prepared to receive the sacraments they need. Adult Confirmation will take place at Mass on Saturday, 30th September at 10am Mass in the Cathedral. To register or for more information, contact cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon & Dovecot Studios Trip

Our over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon will be Tuesday 6th June, 2.30pm - 4pm at Coffee Saints. Wednesday 7th June, visit to Dovecot Studios, Infirmary Street, Kaffe Fassett collection guided tour. Tickets are £9.50 reduced to £6 if enough of us sign up. If you’re not a Coffee Afternoon regular, please consider coming along! You'd be most welcome. Meet outside Studio at 10.45 for prompt start at 11am. Call or text Trish on 07716963215 to reserve a space.

Young Adults Day Trips to Abbotsford, St Andrews

Come along on a day trip to places of significance for the Catholic faith in Scotland. Both trips will be by train from Edinburgh Waverley. Join us for our trip to Melrose and Abbostford on Saturday 24th June. On the day, meet at the top of platforms 5 and 6 for 9.30am. Then we will walk from Tweedbank station to Melrose Abbey, Abbotsford – where we will celebrate Mass in the chapel used by St John Henry Newman, and then onto Galashiels. Please bring sensible footwear and a rain jacket- it is Scotland after all! Train departs Waverley at 9.43am, returns to Waverley for 5.15pm. For more information and to register, please contact Fr. Robert Taylor, FrRobert.Taylor@stan.ed.org.uk

Parish Retreat 22-24 September 2023 at St Mary’s Monastery, Kinnoull

We will have a Parish retreat in September and many have already signed up. Spaces are still available! The Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral have organised the retreat for the whole parish on 22-24 September this year in the idyllic St Mary’s Monastery in Kinnoull (near Perth). The theme of the retreat is Allowing Jesus to Love You, and it will be led by Fr Charlie Corrigan CSsR. Places are limited so please book now. The all-inclusive price is £200 (this includes a £50 non-returnable deposit). To book please email ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Brilliant Summer Reading: Catholic Books at St Pauls Bookshop

Thinking about your summer spiritual reading? Want to deepen your knowledge of Church teaching and the lives of the saints? Browse the wide array of books and periodicals in St Pauls Bookshop including Bibles, the Catechism, books on the saints, prayer, Our Lady, and more! Holy cards, saints medals, bookmarks and a variety of gifts are also on sale. Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm (closed Mondays), 0131 510 4260, edinburgh@stpauls.org.uk.

Tuesday 7:30pm Online Talk on the Holy Trinity

If you missed the last session of the ‘Prepare for Pentecost’ six-week series, you can watch it on the YouTube Channel of the Archdiocese at bit.ly/ArchYouTube. Join the talks on Tuesdays at 7:30pm

(1 hour) with Sister Anna Marie McGuan RSM and Fr Kevin Douglas as they look at the Holy Trinity through the writings of St Thomas Aquinas. Register at https://bit.ly/prepareforpentecost

Save the Dates: Festival Mass and Sacred Arts Concert

Sunday, 13 August: His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, will celebrate the annual Festival Mass at Noon at the Cathedral. Join us for this beautiful celebration of our Sunday Liturgy at the start of the week of our Cathedral’s patronal feast of the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 15th August in the season of Edinburgh’s International Festival.

Monday, 14 August: Acclaimed composer Paul Mealor will join us at St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral for a special performance of his music by the Schola Cantorum, in partnership with Edinburgh Festival of the Sacred Arts. As one of the world’s most performed living composers, Paul will talk to director of music Michael Ferguson about the sources of inspiration for his music, and the process of composing his works. It’ll be a unique opportunity to hear not only Paul’s stunning choral music, but also from the man himself.

Adoration & Confession on Wednesdays

On Wednesday evenings Eucharistic Adoration and Confessions will continue to be available at St Andrew’s. Adoration will begin at 5:00pm, concluding at 5:45pm, with Mass at 6:00pm.

Ravelston Afternoon Tea with Gary Coupland on Friday, 9 June

Musician Gary Coupland will join us for our parish afternoon tea at Ravelston this Friday! Gary is an all-round musical entertainer well known in Scotland and beyond. He was a major part of the Singing Kettle, a very popular children’s entertainment show, and also created Fun Box, another children’s show. Come along from 2pm-4pm in the parish rooms on Friday 9th June. Tickets: Adults £5.00, Children £2.50. Tickets available from Pat Hernandez at the end of Mass or phone on 0131 332 1249. All funds raised will go towards the renovation of the parish rooms.

Corpus Christi Procession in Falkirk – 11th June

Celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi with Archbishop Cushley who will lead a Corpus Christi procession through Falkirk town centre at 2:30pm on Sunday 11 June. The procession will head to St Francis Xavier’s Church for Benediction followed by refreshments in the church hall. Altar Servers can wear their altar robes, those who have recently received First Holy Communion wear their dresses/suits.

St Margaret’s Pilgrimage to Dunfermline – 18th June

St Margaret’s Pilgrimage returns to Dunfermline on Sunday 18 June. Mass is at 2:30pm in St Margaret’s Memorial Church in East Port, with Archbishop Cushley as principal celebrant. Ecumenical service at 12:30pm in Dunfermline Abbey, followed by prayers at the tomb of St Margaret.

Run Alpha: Help Others Learn About Jesus and the Basics of Christianity

The Archdiocese will host a ‘Run Alpha’ training day for parishes interested in trying Alpha, an evangelisation opportunity in which anyone can come to learn about Jesus and the basics of Christianity. Alpha is used by many churches and denominations throughout the world and can be utilised in a Catholic context. The hospitality and welcome offered by the facilitators is a key component to making your Alpha run well! Join us to learn more about Alpha and learn how to run the most effective Alpha you can. Event is on Saturday 10 June, from 9:30am to 3:30pm at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. Please bring a packed lunch. Register on Eventbrite: https://bit.ly/archedventbrite

Vocations Discernment Retreat for Young Adults Ages 18-35

A Vocations Discernment Retreat, “Discerning and Responding to the ‘Voice’ of Christ,’’ takes place at Pluscarden Abbey, Elgin, from 9-11 June 2023 for Catholics aged 18 to 35, both men and women. The retreat will include a talk by Aberdeen Bishop Hugh Gilbert, OSB, ‘What is the ‘voice’ of Christ: how do I know that He is speaking to me?’ and talks by other speakers, and will conclude with a panel discussion on how to discern and respond to Christ. To book, contact rina@youngcatholicadultnetwork.uk

YouCAN Summer BBQ in the Lake District, 14th-16th July

All young Catholic aged 18+ are very welcome to spend a weekend networking with other young Catholic adults from all across the UK, July 14 - July 16, cost £110. What’s included? Walks, BBQ, live band of talented YouCAN musicians, Mass, picnic, swimming and more! We are also very privileged to have with us for the weekend the Bishop of Lancaster who will be leading us on one of the hikes! To book or for more information, contact rina@youngcatholicadultnetwork.uk

St. Dominic and His Preachers of Grace: Friday 23 June – Saturday 24 June

Come and explore what lies at the heart of being a Dominican! The Dominicans will host a two-day conference in Edinburgh in June to share what they have done, are doing and could do in the future. Speakers include Fr Timothy Radcliffe, OP as well as other Friars, Sisters and Lay Dominicans. The event includes a Noon Mass on Saturday 24 June at the Cathedral, celebrated by His Grace, Archbishop Cushley. Book at https://scotland.op.org/preachersofgrace/

Compassion to Hope: Celebrating Migrants, Refugees & Asylum Seekers

An event to celebrate the lives of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers in Scotland, with ‘music, poetry, silence and celebration’. This event takes place in the hall of Sacred Heart Church, 28 Lauriston Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9DJ on Tuesday 20 June at 4:30pm.

Read the newsletter for 4th June (pdf)

Solemnity Of Pentecost – Year A

All Married and Engaged Couples Invited to 31 May Mass with Archbishop

This Wednesday 31 May at 7:15pm the Archbishop will celebrate a special Mass for all Married and Engaged Couples at the Cathedral. No registration required. After the Mass there will be a celebratory reception in Coffee Saints to which everyone attending the Mass is invited. (If you are celebrating a significant anniversary this year, or know couples who are, do let us know so that we can send a personal invitation. Please submit names, address and number of years being celebrated to Fr Jeremy Milne, vemarriage@staned.org.uk 0131 334 1693).

Ordination of Paul Henderson and Peter Shankland

As you all know, Paul and Peter (both faithful members of this parish) will be ordained to the Diaconate on June 14th. A group of 50 parishioners is coming with me and Fr Robert to the ordination in Rome. At the reception afterwards, I would like to be able to present the two with a gift from the parish. The norm is, of course, a cheque. To this end, we will have a retiring collection at the end of all Masses next week for a presentation to the two new Deacons. Thank you so much, in advance, for your kindness.

First Holy Communions on Saturday 3 June at 12 noon

No 10:00am Mass, No Adoration

Please remember in your prayers the children from the Cathedral parish who will receive their First Holy Communion at Mass next Saturday 3rd June at 11:00am. Thank you, especially, to Fr. Robert, their teachers and parents who have helped them to prepare for their First Holy Communion. Please note there will be no 10:00am Mass and no Eucharistic Adoration next Saturday, 3rd June. Confessions will be as normal. The usual schedule for Mass and Adoration will resume the following weekend.

Thank You from the Schola Cantorum!

On behalf of Michael, Tom, and the Schola Cantorum singers, thank you to everyone who made the fundraising concert on Friday 19 May such a success. The generosity of those who came along enabled us to raise over £1800 in support of our music. It's a brilliant result, and it's testament to the support, encouragement, and goodwill of the whole community in the musical life of the Cathedral. Our musicians are incredibly grateful to you!

Final Youth Group Meeting, Day Trip to Carfin Grotto and Bowling

All children Primary 3 – S1 are invited to our final Youth Group meeting tonight at 6pm in the parish rooms at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. Please pick up a registration form today at the back of church for any first-time registrations. This month we are learning about Mary, the mother of God, and getting ready for our Day Trip on Saturday 10th June to Carfin Grotto, followed by bowling at Hollywood Bowl in Coatbridge! See the posters to scan the QR code to register, or e-mail Fr. Robert with any questions, frrobert.taylor@staned.org.uk Please note places are limited, so first come first served!

Parent & Baby Group: Wednesday 12.45pm Mass, Then Coffee Saints

Are you a new parent looking to meet fellow Catholic parents to socialize and share our faith? Join us for 12.45pm Mass on Wednesday, followed by coffee and a chat at Coffee Saints next door. All parents and babies welcome, particularly those on maternity or paternity leave. If you would like to be involved, email Angus Hawkins angus.f.hawkins@gmail.com or Antonia Shack afmshack@gmail.com

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon & Dovecot Studios Trip

Our over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon will be Tuesday 30 May, 2.30pm - 4pm at Coffee Saints. Visit to Kaffe Fassett exhibition “The Power of Pattern” 11am Wednesday 7th June at Dovecot Studios. This exhibition has been curated by Kaffe himself. He came to Edinburgh to ensure background colours and the specially commissioned flooring exhibited the works perfectly. Spaces are limited and must be pre-booked. Call Trish on 07716 96321.

Friends of the Cathedral Garden Party, 10th June, 1-4pm

Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral have a limited number of tickets for their garden party at the Archbishop’s residence on 10th June, 1-4pm. Tickets for this popular event are available to non-members at the price of £20 and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you would like to come and join in the fun, please contact ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk as soon as possible. Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral who have already RSVP’d (thank you!) need not reply to this notice.

Saturday 10 June: Vincent Wallace Memorial Concert

On Saturday 10 June at 7:45pm St Andrew Camerata will perform a special concert in the Cathedral to celebrate the life of former St Mary's choir director Vincent Wallace. The evening will feature a performance of Gabriel Fauré's Requiem and Cantique de Jean Racine, plus other assorted Camerata favourites conducted by Roderick Bryce. Entry by donation.

Young Adults Day Trip to Melrose and Abbotsford on Saturday 24th June

Young adults ages 18-35 are invited to come along on a day trip to places of significance for the Catholic faith in Scotland. Both trips will be by train from Edinburgh Waverley. Join us for our trip to Melrose and Abbotsford on Saturday 24th June. On the day, meet at the top of platforms 5 and 6 for 9.30am. Then we will walk from Tweedbank station to Melrose Abbey, Abbotsford, where we will celebrate Mass in the chapel used by St John Henry Newman, and then onto Galashiels. Please bring sensible footwear and a rain jacket- it is Scotland after all! Train departs Waverley at 9.43am, returns to Waverley for 5.15pm. Another date for your diary is our visit to beautiful St Andrews on Saturday 19th August: Train departs Waverley at 10am, returns to Waverley at 6.30pm. To register, contact FrRobert.Taylor@stan.ed.org.uk

Summer Volunteers Needed! Cathedral Cleaning and Flower Arranging

Summer holidays will mean fewer volunteers are available, and so we really need your help -- please consider donating your time to help keep our Cathedral clean and beautiful in the summer months. Even if you cannot attend every week, helping once or twice per month would be greatly appreciated! Please contact Elizabeth Andrews, Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com to let her know how you can help. Thank you!

Parish Retreat 22-24 September 2023 at St Mary’s Monastery, Kinnoull

For the first time in a very long time, we will have a Parish retreat! The Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral have organised the retreat for the whole parish on 22-24 September this year in the idyllic St Mary’s Monastery in Kinnoull (near Perth). The theme of the retreat is Allowing Jesus to Love You, and it will be led by Fr Charlie Corrigan CSsR. Places are limited so please book now. The all-inclusive price is £200 (this includes a £50 non-returnable deposit): book for it here: ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

2023 Marriage Preparation Courses

Our next Marriage Preparation course will be Saturday 2nd September at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston, 10am-5pm, with presentations by married couples from the parish. The last course for this year will be on Saturday 18th November. Please email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk to register for either date.

First Holy Communion Gifts, New Books at St. Pauls Bookshop

Beautiful gifts and cards for First Holy Communion are available in our St Pauls Bookshop. In this season of Pentecost, pick up a copy of the Catechism of the Catholic Church and read all about what we believe when we say in our Creed “I Believe in the Holy Spirit.” Also, the shop has copies of children’s books on the Holy Spirit and children’s stories by Sr. Clare Crockett, When I Was Little. Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm (closed Mondays), 0131 510 4260, edinburgh@stpauls.org.uk

Rosary After Weekday Masses, Adoration & Confession Wednesdays

All are invited to join the Rosary immediately after 6pm weekday Masses at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston this month. Also, on Wednesday evenings Eucharistic Adoration and Confessions will continue to be available at St Andrew’s. Adoration will begin at 5:00pm, concluding at 5:45pm, with Mass at 6:00pm.

Ravelston Afternoon Tea on Friday, 9 June from 2pm-4pm

Come along and enjoy an afternoon tea in the parish rooms at Ravelston! Bring your friends and make new ones at our Afternoon Tea, 2pm-4pm on Friday 9th June. Tickets: Adults £5.00, Children £2.50.

Tickets available from Pat Hernandez at the end of Mass or phone on 0131 332 1249. All funds raised will go towards the renovation of the parish rooms.

Preparing for Pentecost: Tuesday 7:30pm Online Talk on the Holy Trinity

If you missed the last session of the ‘Prepare for Pentecost’ six-week series, you can watch it on the YouTube Channel of the Archdiocese at bit.ly/ArchYouTube. Join the talks on Tuesdays at 7:30pm

(1 hour) with Sister Anna Marie McGuan RSM and Fr Kevin Douglas as they look at the Holy Trinity through the writings of St Thomas Aquinas. Register at https://bit.ly/prepareforpentecost

Corpus Christi Procession in Falkirk – 11th June

Celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi with Archbishop Cushley who will lead a Corpus Christi procession through Falkirk town centre at 2:30pm on Sunday 11 June. The procession will head to St Francis Xavier’s Church for Benediction followed by refreshments in the church hall. Altar Servers can wear their altar robes, those who have recently received First Holy Communion wear their dresses/suits.

St Margaret’s Pilgrimage to Dunfermline – 18th June

St Margaret’s Pilgrimage returns to Dunfermline on Sunday 18 June. Mass is at 2:30pm in St Margaret’s Memorial Church in East Port, with Archbishop Cushley as principal celebrant. Ecumenical service at 12:30pm in Dunfermline Abbey, followed by prayers at the tomb of St Margaret.

Run Alpha: Help Others Learn About Jesus and the Basics of Christianity

The Archdiocese will host a ‘Run Alpha’ training day for parishes interested in trying Alpha, an evangelisation opportunity in which anyone can come to learn about Jesus and the basics of Christianity. Alpha is used by many churches and denominations throughout the world and can be utilised in a Catholic context. The hospitality and welcome offered by the facilitators is a key component to making your Alpha run well! Join us to learn more about Alpha and learn how to run the most effective Alpha you can. Event is on Saturday 10 June, from 9:30am to 3:30pm at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. Please bring a packed lunch. Register on Eventbrite: https://bit.ly/archedventbrite

Discerning a Call to be a Religious Sister?

Join other young Catholic women today, Sunday 28 May, 4-7pm at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street, EH9 1SN to explore God's will as we chat about discerning a call to be a religious Sister. 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. Contact Sr. Mirjam for more information at religiousvocations@staned.org.uk See vocations information at https://archedinburgh.org/vocations/

Vocations Discernment Retreat for Young Adults Ages 18-35

A Vocations Discernment Retreat, “Discerning and Responding to the ‘Voice’ of Christ,’’ takes place at Pluscarden Abbey, Elgin, from 9-11 June 2023 for Catholics aged 18 to 35, both men and women. The retreat will include a talk by Aberdeen Bishop Hugh Gilbert, OSB, ‘What is the ‘voice’ of Christ: how do I know that He is speaking to me?’ and talks by other speakers, and will conclude with a panel discussion on how to discern and respond to Christ. To book, contact rina@youngcatholicadultnetwork.uk

Compassion to Hope

An event to celebrate the lives of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers in Scotland, with ‘music, poetry, silence and celebration’. This event takes place in the hall of Sacred Heart Church, 28 Lauriston Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9DJ on Tuesday 20 June at 4:30pm.

St. Dominic and His Preachers of Grace: Friday 23 June – Saturday 24 June

Come and explore what lies at the heart of being a Dominican! The Dominicans will host a two-day conference in Edinburgh in June to share what they have done, are doing and could do in the future. Speakers include Fr Timothy Radcliffe, OP as well as other Friars, Sisters and Lay Dominicans. The event includes a Noon Mass on Saturday 24 June at the Cathedral, celebrated by His Grace, Archbishop Cushley. Book at https://scotland.op.org/preachersofgrace/

Read the newsletter for 28th May (pdf)

Seventh Sunday Of Easter – Year A

Confirmations Congratulations!

We welcome His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, and extend our prayers and congratulations to all the children from the Cathedral and St. Andrew’s, Ravelston who are receiving sacrament of Confirmation at the 9:00am Mass today. Very special thanks to Fr. Robert and to the catechists, teachers and parents who helped prepare the children for this special day. Through the gifts of the Holy Spirit they receive, may they follow Christ faithfully and serve Him generously through the Church.

Concluding Holy Hour for May This Wednesday, 7:00pm

Join us for our concluding Holy Hour for May with the Rosary in the Cathedral 7:00pm-8:00pm Wednesday 24th May. Come and spend some time in prayer before Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament and in praying the Rosary in this month of May dedicated to Our Lady. We will pray the Mysteries of Light and hear a reflection by Deacon Tom McEvoy from Sacred Heart, Midlothian. All are invited!

‘Figures of My Faith’ Young Adults Talk on Tuesday: St. Joan of Arc

We will welcome Emma Atkin, Manager of our St. Pauls Bookshop, for a talk on St. Joan of Arc for the final talk in our ‘Figures of My Faith’ series for Young Adults this Tuesday, 23 May. All ages 18-35 are welcome to join us for teas & coffees from 7:00pm in 63 York Place, followed by the talk at 7:30pm. Then we will go to the Cathedral for a time of prayer with opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, concluding with Night Prayer, then time to visit and discuss in a local pub. Come along and join us!

Youth Group Meets Tonight! Day Trip to Carfin & Strathclyde June 10th

All children Primary 3 – S1 are invited to our Youth Group at 6pm tonight in the parish rooms at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. Please pick up a registration form today at the back of church for any first-time registrations. This month we are learning about Mary, the mother of God, and getting ready for our Day Trip on Saturday 10th June to Carfin Grotto and Strathclyde Park! See the posters to scan the QR code to register. Contact Fr. Robert with any questions, frrobert.taylor@staned.org.uk.

Parent & Baby Group: Meet at Coffee Saints, Wednesday after 10am Mass

Are you a new parent looking to meet fellow Catholic parents? We are forming a group for fellow Catholic parents to socialise and share our faith. For our first meeting, we will attend the 10am Mass on Wednesday 24 May, followed by coffee and a chat at Coffee Saints next door. All parents and babies welcome, particularly those on maternity or paternity leave. If you would like to be involved, but are unable to join us this Wednesday, please email Angus Hawkins angus.f.hawkins@gmail.com or Antonia Shack afmshack@gmail.com

All Married and Engaged Couples Invited to 31 May Mass with Archbishop

On Wednesday 31 May at 7:15pm the Archbishop will celebrate a special Mass for all Married and Engaged Couples at the Cathedral. No registration required. After the Mass there will be a celebratory reception in Coffee Saints to which everyone attending the Mass is invited. If you are celebrating a significant anniversary this year, or know couples who are, do let us know so that we can send a personal invitation. Please submit names, address and number of years being celebrated to Fr Jeremy Milne, vemarriage@staned.org.uk, 0131 334 1693.

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon & Cinema Trip

Our over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon will be Tuesday 23 May, 2.30pm - 4pm at Coffee Saints. Wednesday 24th May we will have a Cinema Trip. The film is “Book Club: The Next Chapter,” billed as a scenic romp through Italy, and the showing is 12.35pm. Meet upstairs at Omni. If you cannot book online, arrive 10mins before the start time to enable an online booking to be completed.

Summer Volunteers Needed! Cathedral Cleaning and Flower Arranging

Summer holidays will mean fewer volunteers are available, and so we really need your help -- please consider donating your time to help keep our Cathedral clean and beautiful in the summer months. Even if you cannot attend every week, helping once or twice per month would be greatly appreciated! Please contact Elizabeth Andrews, Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com to let her know how you can help. Thank you!

Friends of the Cathedral Garden Party, 10th June, 1-4pm

Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral have a limited number of tickets for their garden party at the Archbishop’s residence on 10th June, 1-4pm. Tickets for this popular event are available to non-members at the price of £20 and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you would like to come and join in the fun, please contact ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk as soon as possible. Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral who have already RSVP’d (thank you!) need not reply to this notice.

Parish Retreat 22-24 September 2023 at St Mary’s Monastery, Kinnoull 

For the first time in a very long time, we will have a Parish retreat! The Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral have organised the retreat for the whole parish on 22-24 September this year in the idyllic St Mary’s Monastery in Kinnoull (near Perth). The theme of the retreat is Allowing Jesus to Love You, and it will be led by Fr Charlie Corrigan CSsR. Places are limited so please book now. The all-inclusive price is £200 (this includes a £50 non-returnable deposit): book for it here: ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

New Books and First Holy Communion Gifts at St. Pauls Bookshop

Visit our St Pauls Bookshop for beautiful gifts for First Holy Communion. Also the shop has a new stock of some Catholic classics like Interior Castle by St. Teresa of Avila and The Spiritual Exercises by St. Ignatius Loyola, as well new biographies of various saints. Come along and shop the big selection! Also, your donations of used Catholic books in good condition are welcome – just drop them off with the Manager, Emma Atkin. Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm (closed Mondays), 0131 510 4260, edinburgh@stpauls.org.uk

2023 Marriage Preparation Courses

Our next Marriage Preparation course will be Saturday 2nd September at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston, 10am-5pm, with presentations by married couples from the parish. The last course for this year will be on Saturday 18th November. Please email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk to register for either date.

Rosary After Weekday Masses, Adoration & Confession Wednesdays

All are invited to join in praying the Rosary immediately after 6pm weekday Masses at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston this month. Also, on Wednesday evenings we will have Eucharistic Adoration and Confessions, beginning at 5:00pm and concluding at 5:45pm, with Mass at 6:00pm.

Ravelston Afternoon Tea on Friday, 9 June from 2pm-4pm

Come along and enjoy an afternoon tea in the parish rooms at Ravelston! Bring your friends and make new ones at our Afternoon Tea, 2pm-4pm on Friday 9th June. Tickets: Adults £5.00, Children £2.50. Tickets available from Pat Hernandez at the end of Mass or phone on 0131 332 1249.

Preparing for Pentecost: Tuesday 7:30pm Online Talk on the Holy Trinity

If you missed the last session of the ‘Prepare for Pentecost’ six-week series, you can watch it on the YouTube Channel of the Archdiocese at http://bit.ly/ArchYouTube Join the talks on Tuesdays at 7:30pm (1 hour) with Sister Anna Marie McGuan RSM and Fr Kevin Douglas as they look at the Holy Trinity through the writings of St Thomas Aquinas. Register at http://bit.ly/prepareforpentecost

Corpus Christi Procession in Falkirk – 11th June

Celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi with Archbishop Cushley who will lead a Corpus Christi procession through Falkirk town centre at 2:30pm on Sunday 11 June. The procession will head to St Francis Xavier’s Church for Benediction followed by refreshments in the church hall. Altar Servers can wear their altar robes, those who have recently received First Holy Communion wear their dresses/suits.

St Margaret’s Pilgrimage to Dunfermline – 18th June

St Margaret’s Pilgrimage returns to Dunfermline on Sunday 18 June. Mass is at 2:30pm in St Margaret’s Memorial Church in East Port, with Archbishop Cushley as principal celebrant. Ecumenical service at 12:30pm in Dunfermline Abbey, followed by prayers at the tomb of St Margaret.

Archdiocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage in July

There’s still time to book your place on the Archdiocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes, which takes place from 7-14 July. Everyone is welcome, and those with disabilities/medical issues are especially invited. For full details visit https://www.edinburgh-lourdes.com or email edinburghlourdes@gmail.com

Discerning a Call to be a Religious Sister?

Join other young Catholic women next Sunday, 28 May, 4-7pm at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street, EH9 1SN to explore God's will as we chat about discerning a call to be a religious Sister. 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. Contact Sr. Mirjam for more information at religiousvocations@staned.org.uk. See vocations information at https://archedinburgh.org/vocations/

Holy Cross Academy Former Pupils Reunion

If you or your friends would like a reunion with other former pupils of Holy Cross Academy then please send your name and the years when you started and left Holy Cross Academy to Michael Balfour at mjbgen19@gmail.com or telephone 07484 620 635 by 30 June 2023. We aim to reply by 31 July 2023.

Pregnancy Help

Do you know anyone who may need help during pregnancy? SHE Pregnancy Care gives support and confidence to expectant mothers. Text / WhatsApp: 0752 648 0578 or email: office@stantonscotland.org

Pentecost Weekend Stronghold Festival for Ages 16-35

Stronghold Festival is a four-day event Friday 26 May-Monday 29 May open to all young people aged 16-35 who want to draw deeper into relationship with God the Father through his Son Jesus, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Centred on praise, worship, adoration, inspiring talks, and time for building friendships and fellowship, this is a unique opportunity to dive deep into the beauty and fullness of the Catholic faith! The festival is hosted by Craig Lodge Family House of Prayer, nestled in the beautiful highlands of Dalmally in Argyll, Scotland. Cost is £100 and includes full event access, a spot on the camping field, and food and drink for four days. To book your ticket, visit https://www.strongholdfestival.com

Family Week Summer Retreats for Young Families at Craig Lodge

Draw close to Jesus as a family and be refreshed! Craig Lodge Family House of Prayer in Dalmally offers Family Week Summer Retreats for young families (children 16 and under). Morning and evening activities will be available for the children so that parents can join in a time of reflection or simply have some quiet time with the Lord. Mass will be celebrated daily and the days will include plenty of free time for families to enjoy this 'home from home' in the Scottish highlands. Dates are 3-7 July, 17-21 July and

31 July -4 August. The all-inclusive cost for a family week is £250 per adult, £100 per child (11-16s), donation for children 11 and younger. For details and to book, visit https://www.craiglodge.org/events

Bursary Boost for St. Mary’s University Theology Students

A generous donation has led to the launch of a new bursary that will support students of a Catholic theology course in Edinburgh. The Erroll Bursary Fund will contribute £500 towards fees on the two-year Master’s Degree in Theology at St Mary's University's Gillis Centre Campus. The University itself will match each successful bursary application with a further £500. The MA in Applied Catholic Theology is a partnership between St Mary's University, Twickenham, and the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh. To apply for the course visit https://www.stmarys.ac.uk/edinburgh/about.aspx or contact Susan Longhurst, Course Lead, susan.longhurst@stmarys.ac.uk, 07773 689535.

Pray in May with Mary’s Meals 

In the month of May dedicated to Our Lady, international aid charity Mary’s Meals invites you to pray for its important work to feed hungry children. The charity’s mission – carried out in Our Lady’s name – is to serve nutritious school meals in the world’s poorest countries. Mary’s Meals’ work began with prayer, and it is thanks to the power of prayer that it has grown from feeding just 200 children in Malawi in 2002 to feeding more than 2.4 million children in 18 countries today. Visit https://www.marysmeals.org.uk to see all the ways you can support this mission.

Read the newsletter for 21st May (pdf)

Sixth Sunday of Easter – Year A

This Thursday is the Solemnity of the Ascension

This Thursday is the Solemnity of the Ascension and is a holy day of obligation. Masses will be celebrated at the Cathedral at 8:00am, 10:00am, 12:45pm and 7:30pm. Polish Masses will be at 11:15am and 6:00pm.

Schola Cantorum Fundraising Concert This Friday, 19 May, 7:30pm in Support of Cathedral Music

This Friday at 7:30pm join the Schola Cantorum choir for a concert of beautiful music in St Mary's Cathedral in support of the Cathedral music. Come along to hear uplifting choral music, featuring pieces by Palestrina, Lotti, Handel, Mozart, Fauré, Gjeilo, Mealor, and more!

Interval reception with prosecco, and fundraising auction with exclusive choir-themed items including:

• An introductory organ lesson with Tom Wilkinson

• Autographed Sir James MacMillan concert poster

• Dinner party at the Cathedral House, cooked and served by the Schola Cantorum!

Tickets are £10 / £8 (concessions), available from Eventbrite or at the door: https://bit.ly/ScholaCantorum19May2023

Window Appeal 2023 – Huge Thank You!

Dear Friends,

Now that all the donations have been accounted for, I am delighted to let you know that the Lent Appeal for the windows in the Cathedral raised a stunning £18,148.38. As you will remember we were aiming at £14,000 – so this appeal has excelled our most optimistic forecasts. In addition, our very generous benefactor has already doubled that amount – for which we are very grateful indeed.

This leaves us in an excellent position to address not just the problem windows but a number of other urgent fabric issues. The work on the windows will begin on 5th June and the repairs will take around 6-8 weeks. With the rest of the money we will (a) replace the skylight in the octagon which we are told is in dangerous disrepair (which will cost around £5k) and (b) we will commission an in depth survey to try to get to the bottom of the damp problem in sacristy two, which is a long term problem, but which is now damaging the panelling around the St. Andrew’s altar (a survey which will cost around £6k!). The rest of the money will used in trying to repair ongoing problems with the roof of Cathedral House and (if there is any left) we will try to clean the front of the Cathedral (a project dear to my heart – but which is much more problematic than it seems!)

All I can do is thank you all very sincerely for your incredible generosity. The response to this appeal speaks volumes about the vitality of our parish community and is a very good sign for the future of our Cathedral! Thank you again to all of you. Fr. Patrick

Rosary & Reflection on Our Lady - Wednesday 7:00pm Holy Hour

In this month of Our Lady, we will have two more weeks of our Wednesday Holy Hours with the Rosary in the Cathedral 7:00pm-8:00pm. Come and spend some time in prayer before Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. This Wednesday, 17th May we will pray the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary and have a reflection on Our Lady by Deacon Peter Traynor. Next week, for our concluding Holy Hour on Wednesday 24th May, we will pray the Mysteries of Light and hear a reflection by Deacon Tom McEvoy from Sacred Heart, Midlothian. All are invited to join us!

Confirmations at 9:00am Mass Next Sunday

His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, will celebrate the 9:00am Mass next Sunday at which children from our parish will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. Please keep them in your prayers!

Summer Volunteers Needed! Cathedral Cleaning and Flower Arranging

Summer holidays will mean fewer volunteers are available, and so we really need your help -- please consider donating your time to help keep our Cathedral clean and beautiful in the summer months. Even if you cannot attend every week, helping once or twice per month would be greatly appreciated! Please contact Elizabeth Andrews, Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com, 0131 553 1510 to let her know how you can help. Thank you!

‘Figures of My Faith’ Young Adults Talk on Tuesday: JRR Tolkein

Our ‘Figures of My Faith’ talks continues this Tuesday 16 May with a talk by Jack Heitman on Catholic author, JRR Tolkein. Teas & coffees from 7:00pm in 63 York Place, followed by the talk at 7:30pm. We will have an opportunity for Confession, prayer and Night Prayer in the Cathedral afterwards, then a chance to discuss in a local pub. We look forward to seeing you there!

Youth Group Meets Tonight! Day Trip to Carfin & Strathclyde in June

The Youth Group returns this evening at 6pm in the parish rooms at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. Please pick up a registration form today at the back of church for any first-time registrations. During May we will be learning about Mary and then, the final event before the summer will be on 10th June, when the Youth Group will travel to Carfin Grotto and Strathclyde Park! You can register your children for that day trip today – see the posters to register and for more information.

Catenians Meeting This Wednesday at 7.45 p.m.

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a meeting thisWednesday, 17th May, at 7.45 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

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon & Book Club

Our over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon will be Tuesday 16 May, 2.30pm - 4pm. Join us at Coffee Saints café to meet up with old friends and new. We welcome newcomers to join and enjoy our coffee afternoon! Welcome Book Club on Thursday 18th May, 2.30 - 4pm at McDonald Road library. Current book is Love is Blind by William Boyd.

2023 Marriage Preparation Course on Saturday

Our next Marriage Preparation course is on Saturday, 20th May at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston, 10am-5pm presentations by married couples from the parish. The course also will be held Saturday 2nd September and Saturday 18th November. Please email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk to register.

Parish Retreat 22-24 September 2023 at St Mary’s Monastery, Kinnoull

For the first time in a very long time, we will have a Parish retreat! The Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral have organised the retreat for the whole parish on 22-24 September this year in the idyllic St Mary’s Monastery in Kinnoull (near Perth). The theme of the retreat is Allowing Jesus to Love You, and it will be led by Fr Charlie Corrigan CSsR. Places are limited so please book now. The all-inclusive price is £200 (this includes a £50 non-returnable deposit): book for it here: ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

First Holy Communion & Confirmation Gifts

Visit our St Pauls Bookshop for beautiful gifts for First Holy Communion and Confirmation -- rosaries, children’s Bibles, prayerbooks, saint medals & books on the saints. Cathedral notecards are available for £2.99 for 6 cards and envelopes. Learn more about Our Lady in May with the excellent books in the Mariology section. Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm (closed Mondays), 0131 510 4260.

Holy Day of Obligation on Thursday, 6pm Mass

Mass will be celebrated at 6pm at Ravelston on Thursday, 26 May for the Solemnity of the Ascension, a holy day of obligation.

Big Thank You for Coronation Garden Party

Thank you to all who worked to make the Coronation Garden Party such a success last Sunday, from setting up gazebos to taking them down again! It was a really lovely event. Special thanks go to Judy Sutherland for masterminding the whole occasion and to Father Robert for his prayers for good weather, and for his hat judging skills, as well as the formal toast of our new King.

Rosary After Weekday Masses, Adoration & Confession Wednesdays

All are invited to join in praying the Rosary immediately after 6pm weekday Masses at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston this month. Also, on Wednesday evenings we will have Eucharistic Adoration and Confessions, beginning at 5:00pm and concluding at 5:45pm, with Mass at 6:00pm.

Ravelston Lenten Sponsored Run

I am very pleased to tell you that we have now collated all the sponsor monies raised by Fergus Christie for his weekly Sunday run in Lent. A total of £1,291.80 was raised, of which £645.90 is being sent to SCIAF, with an equal amount being given to the Lenten Windows appeal at the Cathedral. This has been a most successful venture – thank you, Fergus!

Called & Gifted Workshop on Saturday at Gillis Centre– Spaces Available!

Spaces are still available for the Called & Gifted Workshop on Saturday, 20th May, 9:00am to 3:30pm. Identify your charisms and discern God’s call through the Called and Gifted Workshop. The workshop is hosted by the Archdiocese at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road EH9 1BB, in collaboration with the St Catherine of Siena Institute. Cost is £25 and includes materials, online access, and lunch. Details & registration at https://bit.ly/calledgifted2023 or e-mail sranna.marie@staned.org.uk

Preparing for Pentecost: Tuesday 7:30pm Online Talk on the Holy Trinity

If you missed the first session of the ‘Prepare for Pentecost’ six-week series, you can watch it on the YouTube Channel of the Archdiocese at bit.ly/ArchYouTube. Join the talks on Tuesdays at 7:30pm

(1 hour) with Sister Anna Marie McGuan RSM and Fr Kevin Douglas as they look at the Holy Trinity through the writings of St Thomas Aquinas. Register at https://bit.ly/prepareforpentecost

St Margaret’s Pilgrimage to Dunfermline – 18th June

St Margaret’s Pilgrimage returns to Dunfermline on Sunday 18 June. Mass is at 2:30pm in St Margaret’s Memorial Church in East Port, with Archbishop Cushley as principal celebrant. Ecumenical service at 12:30pm in Dunfermline Abbey, followed by prayers at the tomb of St Margaret.

Corpus Christi Procession in Falkirk - 11th June

Celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi with Archbishop Cushley who will lead a Corpus Christi procession through Falkirk town centre at 2:30pm on Sunday 11 June. The procession will head to St Francis Xavier’s Church for Benediction followed by refreshments in the church hall. Altar Servers can wear their altar robes and those who have recently had their First Holy Communion can wear their dresses/suits.

Pentecost Novena Prayer

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

Lord Jesus Christ

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

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

and aspire only to the things that are eternal,

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

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

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

all the obstacles that encounter in life,

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

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

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

and may dread in any way to displease Him.

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

Read the newsletter for 14th May (pdf)

The Fifth Sunday of Easter – Year A

King’s Coronation Celebration Today

Today, in honour of the King’s Coronation, our Masses will include special Prayers for the New Monarch and after the 12Noon Mass we will have a festive toast in the Octagon of the Cathedral. If you can make it, do come along to toast the King on this historic occasion.

… and a Delicious Parish Bake Sale!

Don’t miss out on some tasty baked treats this Sunday at the Cathedral’s Young Adults group bake sale outside after Sunday 9am, 10:30am and 12Noon Masses. All proceeds for the Cathedral Fundraising Appeal. We look forward to seeing you there!

First Holy Communion: Presentation of Our Father at Mass this Sunday

Today at Mass we welcome in a particular way the children who are preparing to receive their First Holy Communion in early June. They will participate in a brief Rite after the homily at the 9am Mass in the Cathedral and at 10.30am Mass in Ravelston to receive the words of the Our Father, the prayer that Jesus taught his disciples. Please keep them in your prayers!

‘Figures of My Faith’ Young Adults Talk on Tuesday: St. Mary McKillop

Our ‘Figures of My Faith’ talks continues this Tuesday 9 May with a talk by Madeleine Gilbey on Australian saint, St. Mary McKillop. Teas & coffees from 7:00pm in 63 York Place, followed by the talk at 7:30pm. We will have an opportunity for Confession, prayer and Night Prayer in the Cathedral afterwards, then a chance to discuss in a local pub. We look forward to seeing you there!

Cathedral Holy Hours with Rosary in May on Wednesday Evenings

Thanks to so many of you who joined us this past Wednesday for our first Holy Hour in May. In this month of Our Lady, all are invited to our next Holy Hour in the Cathedral 7pm-8pm this Wednesday,

10th May, and the following two weeks (17th and 24th), with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, praying of the Rosary with a reflection on Our Lady, and concluding with Benediction.

Schola Cantorum Fundraising Concert Friday, 19 May, 7:30pm in Support of Cathedral Music

Join the Cathedral's flagship choir for a concert of beautiful music in support of the music at St Mary's Cathedral on Friday 19 May at 7:30pm. Come along to hear some of the highlights of the choir's choral repertoire, plus Handel Coronation Anthems, African American spirituals, and more. With a prosecco bar and choir-themed fundraising auction at the interval, it’s an event not to be missed! Tickets are £10 / £8 (concessions), available from Eventbrite or at the door: https://bit.ly/ScholaCantorum19May2023

Save the Date: Coronation Composer Concert with Schola Cantorum

During the Coronation ceremony, a special new ‘Kyrie’ by acclaimed composer Paul Mealor was performed by Sir Bryn Terfel and the Choir of Westminster Abbey. We are delighted that Paul Mealor will join us at St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral on Monday 14 August for a special performance of his music by the Schola Cantorum, in partnership with Edinburgh Festival of the Sacred Arts. As one of the world’s most performed living composers, Paul will talk to director of music Michael Ferguson about the sources of inspiration for his music, and the process of composing his works. It’ll be a unique opportunity to hear not only Paul’s stunning choral music, but also from the man himself. Save the date today!

Volunteers Needed! Help with Cathedral Cleaning and Flower Arranging

To help our current volunteer cleaners and flower-arranger volunteers to cover holiday and absences, we are looking to recruit new volunteers to help. Even if you cannot attend every week, helping once or twice per month would be greatly appreciated! To join either or both, or to find out more, please contact Elizabeth Andrews, Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com

Cathedral Fabric Update from Alice

“It has been an expensive couple of months with some major expenditures on very unglamourous projects, largely behind the scenes. A significant project was the need to replace one of the Cathedral boilers which had failed the annual safety checks and could not be repaired. Other costs included investigation of the unpleasant smell emanating from the toilet drains in the café, followed by the removal and rehanging of the toilets in the ladies’ loos and better venting of the system. The taps there remain an issue for attention. Multiple emergency lights failed the annual 3-hour check and had to be replaced. The reconfiguration of the areas around the Cathedral has meant that access to our roofs on the Cathedral Lane side had become very difficult and a gate has been installed in the fencing to allow easier access.

The ongoing roof problems in a depressing number of areas have led us to conclude that we need a full survey of the roofs, with costed and prioritised repair requirements. We have now commissioned this work. Additionally, there have been the normal small items and repairs to deal with, such as broken chairs, weeds growing in the masonry and rips in the kneelers. Progress on many fronts has not been as speedy as I would have wished due to the difficulties of getting tradespeople to attend.

More positively, thanks to your generosity, the work to the windows is due to commence on 5th June and the initial phase of removing those requiring repair will last a week. Thank you, as ever, for your support and help.” Alice

Youth Group Returns on Sunday night - Day Trip Planned for June

The Youth Group returns this evening at 6pm in the parish rooms at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. Please pick up a registration form today at the back of church for any first-time registrations. During May we will be learning about Mary and then, the final event before the summer will be on 10th June, when the Youth Group will travel to Carfin Grotto and Strathclyde Park! You can register your children for that day trip today – see the posters to register and for more information.

Catenians Meeting, Wednesday, 17th May, at 7.45 p.m.

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a meeting on Wednesday, 17th May, at 7.45 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

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon & Cinema Outing

Our over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon will be Tuesday 9 May, 2.30pm - 4pm. Join us at Coffee Saints café to meet up with old friends and new. We welcome newcomers to join and enjoy our coffee afternoon!

We also have a cinema outing on Wednesday 10th May to see ‘The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry’ showing at 1.25pm. Meet upstairs in Omni at 1.15pm if you need to access online tickets.

Parish Retreat 22-24 September 2023 at St Mary’s Monastery, Kinnoull

For the first time in a very long time, we will have a Parish retreat! The Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral have organised the retreat for the whole parish on 22-24 September this year in the idyllic St Mary’s Monastery in Kinnoull (near Perth). The theme of the retreat is Allowing Jesus to Love You, and it will be led by Fr Charlie Corrigan CSsR. Places are limited so please book now. The all-inclusive price is £200 (this includes a £50 non-returnable deposit): book for it here: ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

St Pauls Bookshop: First Communion & Confirmation Gifts

First Holy Communion and Confirmation are in our St Pauls Bookshop, including rosaries, children’s Bibles, prayerbooks, saint medals & books on the saints. Brand new Cathedral notecards are available for £2.99 for 6 cards and envelopes. Learn more about Our Lady in May with the excellent books in the Mariology section, especially on Marian apparitions. Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm (closed Mondays), 0131 510 4260, edinburgh@stpauls.org.uk

2023 Marriage Preparation Courses

The next Marriage Preparation course is Saturday, 20th May at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston, 10am-5pm. The course also will be held Saturday 2nd September and Saturday 18th November. It includes presentations by married couples from the parish. Please email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk to register.

Rosary After Weekday Masses, Adoration & Confession Wednesdays

All are invited to join in praying the Rosary immediately after 6pm weekday Masses at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston this month. Also, on Wednesday evenings we will have Eucharistic Adoration and Confessions, beginning at 5:00pm and concluding at 5:45pm, with Mass at 6:00pm. Come along for some quiet prayer before our Lord and an opportunity for Confession.

Ministry Day at Ravelston Next Saturday

All existing ministers are invited along to our Ministry Day next Saturday 13th May in the parish rooms at Ravelston, and anybody who would like to become an altar server (and have made – or will make their First Holy Communion this year), or who would like to be a reader or Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion are also welcome at the associated times: 1300-1400 Servers, 1400 – 1500 Readers, 1500-1600 Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. Looking forward to seeing you there!

Called & Gifted Workshop on Saturday 20th May

Through our Baptism and Confirmation we receive gifts through which God intends His love to reach others. Identify your charisms and discern God’s call through the Called and Gifted Workshop. Learn of the ancient teachings of the Church on how the gifts of the Holy Spirit work in our lives and parish communities. The workshop is hosted by the Archdiocese at the Gillis Centre in collaboration with the St Catherine of Siena Institute on Saturday 20 May from 9:00am to 3:30pm. Cost is £25 and includes materials, online access, and lunch. Details & registration at bit.ly/calledgifted2023 or e-mail sranna.marie@staned.org.uk

Preparing for Pentecost: Tuesday 7:30pm Online Talk on the Holy Trinity

If you missed the first session of the ‘Prepare for Pentecost’ six-week series, you can watch it on the YouTube Channel of the Archdiocese at bit.ly/ArchYouTube. Join the talks on Tuesdays at 7:30pm

(1 hour) with Sister Anna Marie McGuan RSM and Fr Kevin Douglas as they look at the Holy Trinity through the writings of St Thomas Aquinas. Register at http://bit.ly/prepareforpentecost

Save the Date: St Margaret’s Pilgrimage, Sunday 18th June 2023

St Margaret’s Pilgrimage returns to Dunfermline on Sunday 18 June. Mass is at 2:30pm in St Margaret’s Memorial Church in East Port, with Archbishop Cushley as principal celebrant. Ecumenical service at 12:30pm in Dunfermline Abbey, followed by prayers at the tomb of St Margaret.

Vocation Mission Next Sunday at St Mary, Star of the Sea

A Vocation Mission takes place at St Mary, Star of the Sea, 106 Constitution Street, Leith, EH6 6AW, on Sunday 21 May with Mass at 10:30am followed by a talk from Sr Immaculada Perez, OMI. The event is to help promote a culture of vocations in homes and families. All welcome!

Help for Marriages: Online Retrouvaille Programme 6th- 9th July

Retrouvaille is a programme to support couples who have difficulties in their marriage. The programmes bring new hope and help nourish your marriage. Retrouvaille England and Wales is delighted to offer an online Retrouvaille programme 6th- 9th July 2023. Learn more at http://www.retrouvaille.org.uk

Young Adults Pilgrimage with the Carmelites for World Youth Day

Young adults are invited to join a pilgrimage to explore places of significance for Catholics and Carmelites on a journey to Lisbon for 2023 World Youth Day. Start in Avila on 24 July, journey to Fatima 29 July and stay to 31 July for the International Meeting for Carmelite Young Adults, then on to Lisbon for WYD until 6 August. Price: £850 per person (paid in instalments) with subsidiaries for students or unemployed. Email Ian at encounter@carmelite.org.uk and visit http://www.encounter.uk.net/encounter-festival/avilawyd/

Walk for Right to Life UK Where Tolkien Wrote The Lord of the Rings

Two sponsored walks in support of Right to Life UK, including one walk on the Tolkien Trail, are scheduled in May. The Christian Heritage Centre at Stonyhurst College, Lancashire, will host a walk on a shortened version of Tolkien Trail on Monday 8 May, beginning at 2:00pm. The Burnley Knights of St Columba and Catenian Circle 154 host a 10km sponsored walk for Right To Life UK on Monday 29 May. For further details and to register for the walks visit https://righttolife.org.uk/sponsoredwalks

Read the newsletter for 7th May (pdf)

Fourth Sunday Of Easter – Year A

‘Figures of My Faith’ Talks By Young Adults for Young Adults

All young adults ages 18-35 are welcome to attend our new series of talks, ‘Figures of My Faith,’ featuring talks by young adults for young adults, beginning on Tuesday 2 May with a talk on C.S. Lewis by Jason Mitala. Teas & coffees from 7:00pm in 63 York Place, followed by the talk at 7:30pm. We will have an opportunity for Confession, prayer and Night Prayer in the Cathedral afterwards, then a chance to discuss in a local pub. Come along!

Young Adults Events in May, June and August

Upcoming events for the Young Adults group include an Afternoon of Recollection at St Albert’s Chaplaincy on Saturday 27th May. During the summer the Young Adults will also be visiting places with significance for the faith in Scotland. Day trips will include Melrose Abbey and Abbotsford House on the 24th of June and St Andrews on Saturday 19th August. These trips will be by train and will include some walking. Contact Fr Robert at frrobert.taylor@staned.org.uk Registration for Abbotsford is open now.

Schola Cantorum Fundraising Concert Friday, 19 May

for Support of Cathedral Music

Join the Cathedral's flagship choir for a concert of beautiful music in support of the music at St Mary's Cathedral on Friday 19 May at 7:30pm. Come along to hear some of the highlights of the choir's choral repertoire, plus Handel Coronation Anthems, African American spirituals, and more. With a prosecco bar and choir-themed fundraising auction at the interval, it’s an event not to be missed! Tickets are £10 / £8 (concessions), available from Eventbrite or at the door: https://bit.ly/ScholaCantorum19May2023

Organ Recital Thank You!

Thank you to all who attended the organ recitals last Sunday and Monday by Tom Wilkinson, Cathedral Organist, featuring magnificent pieces by Bach, Mendelssohn, Brahms, Schumann and Liszt. Over £360 was received in the retiring collection in aid of Cathedral music on Sunday. Thank you for your support!

Holy Hours with Rosary in May on Wednesday Evenings

Join us for Holy Hours with the Rosary during the first four weeks of May at the Cathedral, beginning Wednesday 3 May from 7pm to 8pm, with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, a reflection and concluding with Benediction.

Volunteers Needed: Help with Cathedral Cleaning and Flower-Arranging

The work of our Cathedral volunteer cleaners and flower-arrangers is extremely important and so help our current volunteers cover holiday and absences, we are looking to recruit new volunteers to help with both of these activities. The Cathedral cleaning team meets every Wednesday afternoon between 2pm and 4pm to undertake various cleaning tasks. For flower arranging, there are currently four teams, who meet mid-morning on a Friday. For both cleaning and flower arranging, each team is led by an experienced volunteer, so lack of experience is not a barrier. Even if you cannot attend every week, helping once or twice per month would be greatly appreciated! To join either or both, or to find out more, please contact Elizabeth Andrews, Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com

Youth Group Returns Next Sunday, Day Trip Planned for June

The Youth Group returns on the 7th May at 6pm in the parish rooms at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. Please pick up a registration form today for any first-time registrations. During May we will be learning about Mary and then, the final event before the summer will be on 10th June, when the Youth Group will travel to Carfin Grotto and Strathclyde Park! You can register your children for that day trip today – see the posters for more information.

Catenians Meeting, Wednesday, 17th May, at 7.00 p.m.

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a meeting on Wednesday, 17th May, 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 Retreat 22-24 September 2023 at St Mary’s Monastery, Kinnoull

For the first time in a very long time, we will have a Parish retreat! The Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral have organised the retreat for the whole parish on 22-24 September this year in the idyllic St Mary’s Monastery in Kinnoull (near Perth). The theme of the retreat is Allowing Jesus to Love You, and it will be led by Fr Charlie Corrigan CSsR. Places are limited so please book now. The all-inclusive price is £200 (this includes a £50 non-returnable deposit): book for it here: ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon

Over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon, Tuesday 2 May, 2.30pm - 4pm: Join us at Coffee Saints café to meet up with old friends and new. We welcome newcomers to come along and enjoy our coffee afternoon!

St Pauls Bookshop: First Communion Gifts & Scottish Saints Prayers

First Holy Communion gifts are available in our St Pauls Bookshop, including rosaries, First Communion medals, children’s Bibles, prayerbooks, bookmarks, posters and more. A lovely new selection of Scottish saints prayer cards recently arrived, including St. Andrew, St. John Ogilvie, St. Mungo, St. Ninian, as well as Our Lady of Paisley and Our Lady of Aberdeen. St. Andrew medals are now in stock, too.

New Cathedral notecards are available for £2.99 for 6 cards and envelopes. Images include the painting of the Coronation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Pieta statue, Our Lady’s Altar, the icon at St. Andrew’s Altar, and stained glass windows of the Cathedral. Bookshop hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00am to 5:00pm (closed Mondays), 0131 510 4260, edinburgh@stpauls.org.uk

First Saturday Devotions

Next Saturday, 6 May, 9:30am there will be devotions to Our Lady of Fatima here in the Cathedral, followed by 10:00am Mass. All are welcome!

Wednesday 5:00pm Adoration and Confessions in May

Our Wednesday evening Eucharistic Adoration and Confessions will return starting this week, beginning at 5:00pm and concluding at 5:45pm, with Mass at 6:00pm to follow. Come along for some quiet prayer before our Lord and an opportunity for the Sacrament of Confession in this holy Easter season.

Coronation Party Next Sunday: Tickets on Sale, Volunteers Needed

Come along to the Coronation Garden Party at St Andrew’s, Ravelston on Sunday 7th May, 1:00pm-3:30pm to mark King Charles’ coronation. There will be a selection of tasty treats for all and activities for the children. Tickets are £5 per person or £10 for a family (2 adults, children come free), and all proceeds support the parish Youth Group! There is a lot of work involved in running this day so please email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk or speak to Judy Sutherland or Father Robert if you can help.

St. Andrew Talk Cancelled for 1st May

The St Andrews Talk for Monday 1st May has been cancelled. Talks will resume after the summer break.

Ministry Day at Ravelston on Saturday, 13th May

All existing ministers are invited along and anybody who would like to become an altar server (and have made – or will make their First Holy Communion this year), would like to be a reader or Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion are all very welcome at the associated times: 1300-1400 Servers, 1400 – 1500 Readers, 1500-1600 Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.

Crux Magazines on Sale Today at Ravelston!

Pick up your copy of the Spring issue of Crux magazine today. It is just £5 and all proceeds support the Cathedral. Enjoy articles and features from Fr. Patrick, Fr. Nick Welsh, our seminarians Paul Henderson and Peter Shankland, and an exclusive interview with our organist Tom Wilkinson plus a special article on the St Pauls Bookshop! Crux is a must-read over the Easter 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 to their door. Join Friends here

World Day of Prayer for Vocations: Special Collection for Seminarians

Today is World Day of Prayer for Vocations and there will be a special collection today for those studying for the priesthood. Please pray that more men and women answer God’s call to the priesthood and the religious life. Keep in your prayers the seminarians from the Archdiocese – Peter Shankland and Paul Henderson (Beda College, Rome), Gerard Holden and Matthew McCafferty (Scots College, Rome) and Matthew Frankland (Royal Scots College, Salamanca). If you feel called to the priesthood or religious life, have a chat with the Cathedral clergy today.

Called & Gifted Workshop: Discover Your Unique Purpose in Life

Through our Baptism and Confirmation we have received gifts through which God intends His love to reach others. Identify your charisms and discern God’s call through the Called and Gifted Workshop. Learn about the ancient teachings of the Church on how the spiritual gifts of the Holy Spirit work in our lives and parish communities and delve into the signs and characteristics of the most common charisms of the Holy Spirit. The workshop is hosted by the Archdiocese at the Gillis Centre in collaboration with the St Catherine of Siena Institute and takes place on Saturday 20 May from 9:00am to 3:30pm. Cost is £25 and includes materials, online access, and lunch. Details & registration at https://bit.ly/calledgifted2023.Queries? Email sranna.marie@staned.org.uk

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

Join other young Catholic women today (30th April) at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street,4pm-7pm to explore God's will in your life. Come along or contact Sr Mirjam at religiousvocations@staned.org.uk

Six-Week Online Talk: What We Believe About the Holy Trinity

Join this six-week series to prepare and learn about two feasts, Pentecost and Holy Trinity Sunday. Led by Sister Anna Marie McGuan RSM and Fr Kevin Douglas, it will take a closer look at what we believe about the Holy Trinity based on the writings of St Thomas Aquinas. Begins on Tuesday 2 May at 7:30pm (1 hour). Register at bit.ly/prepareforpentecost.

Mass in May for Married & Engaged Couples

Archbishop Leo Cushley will celebrate Mass for Married and Engaged Couples here at the Cathedral at 7:15pm on Wednesday 31 May. Reception in Coffee Saints afterwards. Submit names, address and number of years married to vemarriage@staned.org.uk or phone 0131 334 1693.

St. Dominic and His Preachers of Grace: Friday 23 June – Saturday 24 June

Come and explore what lies at the heart of being a Dominican! The Dominicans will host a two-day conference in Edinburgh in June to share what they have done, are doing and could do in the future. Speakers include Fr Timothy Radcliffe, OP as well as other Friars, Sisters and Lay Dominicans. The event includes a Noon Mass on Saturday 24 June at the Cathedral, celebrated by His Grace, Archbishop Cushley. Book at https://scotland.op.org/preachersofgrace/

Are You Looking for a Job? LINKnet Can Help

Meet with a qualified and trained mentor and through employability trainings conducted by LINKnet, 31 Guthrie Street, Edinburgh EH1 1JG. LINKnet was established to help minority ethnic people secure work, further education opportunities and help with personal development. The service is free of charge and available online or face-to-face. Everyone over 18 years of age from any minority ethnic group is eligible to join the mentoring programme. Email volunteers@linknetmentoring.com or visit https://linknetmentoring.com

Read the newsletter for 30th April (pdf)

Third Sunday of Easter – Year A

Young Adults ‘Christ’s Prayerbook’ Series Final Talk on Tuesday

The Young Adults Group final talk in our series on Christ’s Prayerbook will be with Fr. Ross Campbell on Tuesday. Join us in 63 York Place for tea and coffee at 7pm, 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.

Upcoming Events for Young Adults

 Sponsored Mountain Walk Next Saturday

Members of the Cathedral Young Adults Group will be doing a sponsored climb of Schiehallion, the mountain that helped to weigh the world, the result of an interesting 18th century experiment. The group bring with them any intentions you’d like to be prayed as they ascend 700 metres of the Perthshire Munro on Saturday, 29 April to raise funds for the Cathedral Windows Appeal. Donations can be made online at https://bit.ly/YAG-SchiehallionClimb or by completing the sponsor forms at the back of the church.

Day of Recollection, Trips to Melrose & Abbotsford, St. Andrews

Upcoming events for the Young Adults group include an Afternoon of Recollection at St Albert’s Chaplaincy on Saturday 27th May. During the summer the Young Adults will also be visiting places with significance for the faith in Scotland, day trips will include Melrose Abbey and Abbotsford House on the 24th of June and St Andrews on Saturday 19th August. These trips will be by train and will include lots of walking. All young adults aged 18-35 are welcome! Contact Fr Robert at frrobert.taylor@staned.org.uk

Organ Recital sundday at 1:30pm: Bach, Mendelssohn and More

Tom Wilkinson, Cathedral Organist, will host an organ recital on Sunday 23 April, 1:30pm to feature magnificent pieces including Passacaglia and Fugue in C minor BWV 582 – Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750), Sonata in A Op. 65 No. 3 – Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847), Four Chorale preludes – Johannes Brahms (1833-1897), Prelude and Fugue in D minor – Clara Schumann (1819-1896) and Prelude and Fugue on B-A-C-H – Franz Liszt (1811-1886). Admission free, retiring collection in aid of Cathedral music.

‘Bach in the 19th Century’ with Musical Examples, Monday 7:30pm

Today, Johann Sebastian Bach is commonly regarded as one of the greatest composers of in the history of Western music. It was in the nineteenth century – the age of Brahms, Liszt and Mendelssohn – that he came to be regarded as such. Join us for a talk on ‘Bach in the 19th Century’ at 7.30pm in the Cathedral, Monday 24 April, hosted by Friends of the Cathedral. Tom Wilkinson, Cathedral Organist, will explore the huge impact Bach’s music had on 19th-century German composers. Musical examples will illustrate the talk, offering an opportunity to hear a powerful repertoire played on our magnificent Cathedral organ. Please email ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk if you would like to come. Thank you!

Marian Holy Hours in May on Wednesday Evenings

Join us for Marian Holy Hours during the first four weeks of May at the Cathedral, beginning Wednesday 3 May from 7pm to 8pm, with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, praying of the Rosary, a reflection and concluding with Benediction.

Easter Knits Sales Thank You!

Thanks to all who so generously supported the sale of the beautiful Easter knitted gifts by our parishioner Joanna Kopystynska. Nearly £900 was raised from the sales, with all proceeds going to the parish.

Youth Group Returns 7th May, Day Trip Planned for June

The Youth Group returns on the 7th May at 6pm. Please pick up a registration form today for any first-time registrations. During May we will be learning about Mary and then, the final event before the summer will be on 10th June, when the Youth Group will travel to Carfin Grotto and Strathclyde Park for some activities. See the poster for more details on that!

Parish Retreat 22-24 September 2023 at St Mary’s Monastery, Kinnoull

For the first time in a very long time(!) we have decided to have a Parish retreat! The Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral have organised the retreat for the whole parish on 22-24 September this year in the idyllic St Mary’s Monastery in Kinnoull (near Perth). The theme of the retreat is Allowing Jesus to Love You, and it will be led by Fr Charlie Corrigan CSsR. Places are limited so please book now. The all-inclusive price is £200 (this includes a £50 non-returnable deposit): book for it here: ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon and More!

Over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon, Tuesday 25 April, 2.30pm - 4pm: Join us at Coffee Saints café to meet up with old friends and new. Newcomers are always very welcome!

Theatre Outing, Wednesday 26th April, 2.30pm: Trip to see ‘Mousetrap’ at Playhouse Theatre. Tickets have been purchased for everyone who expressed an interest. If you'd like to be placed on a wait list for tickets, let Trish know at 07716963215. We will meet at Coffee Saints and set off from there at 2pm.

Thursday 18th May 2.30pm - 4pm: Next Welcome book group meet up at McDonald Road Library. Current book is Love is Blind by William Boyd. Collect your copy from the library.

Kaffe Fassett exhibition at Dovecot Studio, date to be confirmed. Stay tuned for more information soon!

Schola Cantorum Fundraising Concert Friday, 19 May

Join the Cathedral's flagship choir for a concert of beautiful music in support of the music at St Mary's Cathedral on Friday 19 May at 7:30pm. Come along to hear some of the highlights of the choir's choral repertoire, plus Handel Coronation Anthems, African American spirituals, and more. With a prosecco bar and choir-themed fundraising auction at the interval, it's an event not to be missed! Tickets are £10 / £8 (concessions), available from Eventbrite or at the door: https://bit.ly/ScholaCantorum19May2023

St Pauls Bookshop: First Communion Gifts & New Cathedral Notecards

A lovely assortment of First Holy Communion gifts are available in our St Pauls Bookshop, including crucifixes, rosaries, First Communion medals, children’s Bibles, prayerbooks, bookmarks, plaques, icons, statues, posters and more. Stop in and find a special gift for First Holy Communion.

Also, beautiful new Cathedral notecards are on sale now for just £2.99 for 6 cards and envelopes. The cards feature the painting surmounting the sanctuary arch of the Coronation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Pieta statue, Our Lady’s Altar, the icon at St. Andrew’s Altar, and stained glass windows of the Cathedral. Bookshop hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00am to 5:00pm (closed Mondays), 0131 510 4260, edinburgh@stpauls.org.uk

Joseph Gillespie R.I.P. and Bernadette Philipsz, R.I.P.

With sadness we announce the death of parishioner Joe Gillespie who passed away recently. Many of you will remember Joe who was prepared for the sacraments at Ravelston and who, with the support of our parish community, made several trips to Lourdes. He is survived by his siblings, Sheila, Susan, Roseann and John. Please pray for the happy repose of his soul and for the consolation of all those who mourn for him. May he rest in peace and rise in glory! His body will be received here at St. Andrew’s Church on Wednesday, 26 April at 4:00pm and the Funeral Mass will be here on Thursday, 27 April at 11:30am.

Also, parishioner Bernadette Philipsz passed away last week. Funeral details will be announced soon. Please keep both of the departed and their families in your prayers.

Procession and May Crownings at Ravelston Next Sunday

Join us next Sunday before 10:30am Mass as we have a procession and May crownings of the statues of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the garden (weather permitting) and in the church at Ravelston. It is a lovely way to honour our Blessed Mother as we approach the Marian month of May. Children are especially welcome!

St. Andrew Talk on 1st May with Fr. Garden

The final St Andrews Talk of this year will take place on Monday 1st May, starting at 6.45pm in the Parish Rooms at Ravelston. The talk will be on the Gospel of Matthew and will be given by Fr Andrew Garden. The talk follows Mass and will be followed by soup and sandwiches.

Tickets on Sale for 7th May Coronation Lunch Party at Ravelston

Tickets for the parish coronation lunch on Sunday, 7th May will be on sale from today. The cost of a single ticket will be £5 and £10 for a family ticket. All proceeds from the event will go towards the Parish Youth Group. The event will include children's activities. If you are able to help with the event, please text or phone Judy Sutherland on 07841 419240. Thank you!

World Day of Prayer for Vocations Next Sunday

Next Sunday 30 April is World Day of Prayer for Vocations. Please pray that more men and women answer God’s call to the priesthood and the religious life. Keep in your prayers the seminarians from the Archdiocese: Peter Shankland and Paul Henderson (Beda College, Rome), Gerard Holden and Matthew McCafferty (Scots College, Rome) and Matthew Frankland (Royal Scots College, Salamanca). If you feel called to the priesthood or religious life, have a chat with our vocations director Father Andrew Garden on 0131 663 4286 (vocations@staned.org.uk) or Sister Mirjam Hugens, director for Religious Vocations, on 0131 623 8902 religiousvocations@staned.org.uk

Called & Gifted Workshop: Discover Your Unique Purpose in Life

You have received gifts in Baptism and Confirmation through which God intends His love to reach others. Identify your charisms (spiritual gifts) and discern God’s call through the Called and Gifted Workshop. We will learn about the ancient teachings of the Church on how the charisms of the Holy Spirit work in your life and in the life of your parish community, and we will delve into the signs and characteristics of the most common charisms of the Holy Spirit. The workshop is hosted by the Archdiocese at the Gillis Centre (100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh) in collaboration with the St Catherine of Siena Institute and takes place on Saturday 20 May from 9:00am to 3:30pm. Cost is £25 and includes materials, online access, and lunch. Details & registration at https://bit.ly/calledgifted2023 Queries? Email sranna.marie@staned.org.uk.

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, 30 April, 4-7pm at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street, EH9 1SN to explore God's will as we chat in monthly get-togethers in Edinburgh. The meetings are led by Sr Mirjam Hugens, FSO, director for religious vocations in the Archdiocese. Contact Sr. Mirjam at religiousvocations@staned.org.uk

Six-Week Online Talk: What We Believe About the Holy Trinity

Join this six-week online talk series to prepare and learn more about two major feasts at the end of Eastertide: Pentecost and Holy Trinity Sunday. Led by Sister Anna Marie McGuan RSM and Fr Kevin Douglas, it will take a closer look at what we believe about the Holy Trinity based on the writings of St Thomas Aquinas. Begins on Tuesday 2 May at 7:30pm (1 hour). Register at http://bit.ly/prepareforpentecost

Mass in May for Married & Engaged Couples

Archbishop Leo Cushley will celebrate Mass for Married and Engaged Couples here at the Cathedral at 7:15pm on Wednesday 31 May. Reception in Coffee Saints afterwards. Submit names, address and number of years being celebrated to vemarriage@staned.org.uk, or phone 0131 334 1693.

Save the Date: St Margaret’s Pilgrimage, Sunday 18 June, 2023

St Margaret Pilgrimage returns to Dunfermline on Sunday 18 June. Mass is at 2:30pm in St Margaret’s Memorial Church in East Port, with Archbishop Cushley as principal celebrant. Prior to that there is an ecumenical service at 12:30pm in Dunfermline Abbey. Mark your diary!

Lourdes Pilgrimage in July

There’s still time to book your place on the Archdiocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes, which takes place from 7-14 July. Everyone is welcome, and those with disabilities/medical issues are especially invited. For full details visit www.edinburgh-lourdes.com/ or email edinburghlourdes@gmail.com

Read the newsletter for 23rd April (pdf)

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

Spring Issue of Cathedral's Crux Magazine on Sale Today

Pick up your copy of the Spring issue of Crux magazine today. At only £5, with all proceeds benefitting the Cathedral, enjoy exciting articles and features written by Fr. Patrick, Fr. Nick Welsh, our seminarians Paul Henderson and Peter Shankland, as well as an exclusive interview with our organist Tom Wilkinson and a special article on our new St Pauls Bookshop! Crux is a must-read over the Easter 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 Friends here

Feast of Divine Mercy

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

“Divine Mercy reaches human beings through the heart of Christ crucified.” – St. John Paul II

Parish Retreat 22-24 September 2023 at St Mary’s Monastery, Kinnoull

For the first time in a very long time(!) we have decided to have a Parish retreat! The Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral have organised the retreat for the whole parish on 22-24 September this year in the idyllic St Mary’s Monastery in Kinnoull (near Perth). The theme of the retreat is Allowing Jesus to Love You, and it will be led by Fr Charlie Corrigan CSsR. Whether you have never been to a retreat or are an old hand – this will be a wonderful opportunity to spend time away to deepen your relationship with God - a perfect opportunity to nourish your spiritual faith in beautiful surroundings. Places are limited so please book now. The all-inclusive price is £200 (this includes a £50 non-returnable deposit): book for it here: ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Organ Recital: Bach, Mendelssohn and More! Next Sunday 1:30pm

Tom Wilkinson, Cathedral Organist, will host an organ recital on Sunday 23 April, 1:30pm to feature magnificent pieces including Passacaglia and Fugue in C minor BWV 582 – Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750), Sonata in A Op. 65 No. 3 – Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847), Four Chorale preludes – Johannes Brahms (1833-1897), Prelude and Fugue in D minor – Clara Schumann (1819-1896) and Prelude and Fugue on B-A-C-H – Franz Liszt (1811-1886). Admission free, retiring collection in aid of Cathedral music.

‘Bach in the 19th Century,’ Featuring Musical Examples, Monday 24 April

Today, Johann Sebastian Bach is commonly regarded as one of the greatest composers of in the history of Western music. It was in the nineteenth century – the age of Brahms, Liszt and Mendelssohn – that he came to be regarded as such. Join us for a talk on ‘Bach in the 19th Century’ at 7.30pm, Monday 24 April, hosted by Friends of the Cathedral. Tom Wilkinson, Cathedral Organist, will explore the huge impact Bach’s music had on 19th-century German composers. Musical examples will illustrate the talk, offering an opportunity to hear a powerful repertoire played on our magnificent Cathedral organ. Please email ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk if you would like to come. Thank you!

Fire Marshal Training Certificates

Fire Marshal training certificates are now available. If you completed one of the Fire Marshal Training sessions, please pick up your certificates from Father Puton or from the folder on the table in the back of the Cathedral. Thank you!

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon, Book Club, Theatre Outing and More!

Over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon, Tuesday 18 April, 2.30pm - 4pm: Join us at Coffee Saints café to meet up with old friends and new. We welcome newcomers to come along!

Book Club, Thursday 20th April, 2.30pm - 4pm: Meet at McDonald Road Library, EH7 4LU. Current book is The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. If you’ve not read the current choice, you are welcome to come along and hear what others thought of the book. As of 20th April, a new book will be chosen and can be collected.

Theatre Outing, Wednesday 26th April, 2.30pm: We have a planned outing to the Playhouse Theatre to see Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap.” This iconic play has now been running for over 70 consecutive years. If you’d like to come along, we are arranging a group booking which will include a discount on normal pricing, making the ticket cost £20 per head. Call Trish on 07716963215 if you would like to attend.

Kaffe Fassett exhibition at Dovecot Studio, date to be confirmed: An opportunity to view this talented designer’s work with a unique insight from an experienced guide. The tour will be on a Friday, date to be announced, with a hefty discount on the admission price! Stay tuned for more information soon!

Young Adult Talk on Tuesday 7:30pm & Other Upcoming Events

The Young Adults Group will return on Tuesday 18th April with a talk from Sr Angela Marie, OP who is based in Elgin. She’ll talk about one of the psalms of praise and thanksgiving starting at 7.30pm. Join us in 63 York Place for tea and coffee at 7pm, followed by the talk. Upcoming events for the Young Adults group include an Afternoon of Recollection at St Albert’s Chaplaincy on Saturday 27th May. During the summer the Young Adults will also be visiting places with significance for the faith in Scotland, day trips will include Melrose Abbey and Abbotsford House on the 24th of June and St Andrews on Saturday 19th August. These trips will be by train and will include lots of walking. All young adults aged 18-35 are welcome to join the group! Please contact Fr Robert for more information, frrobert.taylor@staned.org.uk

Young Adults Sponsored Mountain Walk, Saturday 29th April

Members of the Cathedral Young Adults Group will be doing a sponsored climb of Schiehallion, the mountain that helped to weigh the world, the result of an interesting 18th century experiment. The group won’t be conducting any experiments on the climb but will bring with them any intentions you’d like to be prayed as they ascend around 700 metres of the Perthshire Munro on the 29th April to raise funds for the Cathedral Lenten appeal. You can donate now via this link https://bit.ly/YAG-SchiehallionClimb or by completing the sponsor forms available at the back of the church. There is also a box on the passkeepers table in the Cathedral for any prayer intentions.

Youth Group Upcoming Events

The Youth Group has concluded for the Easter holidays. It will return on the 7th May at 6pm in St Andrew’s, Ravelston. Don’t miss information about the Youth Group Day out in June, details coming soon!

No 10am Mass This Week

While some of the Cathedral priests are away, the 10am Mass is cancelled and will resume on Monday 24th April.

Save the Date: Coronation Lunch Party at Ravelston

On Sunday, 7th May, a coronation lunch party with children's activities is planned. Tickets and details of the program will follow later and as we are hoping for sunshine. This is a preliminary call for help so that bunting can go up during the week of the coronation, followed by the gazebo and tables on Sunday morning. If you are able to help please text or phone me on 07841 419240. Thank you, Judy Sutherland.

Called & Gifted Workshop: Discover Your Unique Purpose in Life

You have received gifts in Baptism and Confirmation through which God intends His love to reach others. Identify your charisms (spiritual gifts) and discern God’s call through the Called and Gifted Workshop. We will learn about the ancient teachings of the Church on how the charisms of the Holy Spirit work in your life and in the life of your parish community, and we will delve into the signs and characteristics of the most common charisms of the Holy Spirit. The workshop is hosted by the Archdiocese at the Gillis Centre (100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh) in collaboration with the St Catherine of Siena Institute and takes place on Saturday 20 May from 9:00am to 3:30pm. Cost is £25 and includes materials, online access, and lunch. Details & registration at bit.ly/calledgifted2023. Queries? Email sranna.marie@staned.org.uk

Catenians Meeting on Wednesday, 19th April at 7.00 p.m.

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a meeting on Wednesday, 19th April, at 7.00 p.m. in 63 York Place. Informal chat to follow in a local pub. Join us! 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 information 01555 728032 or membership@thecatenians.com

Rosary and Pro-Life Chain, Saturday, 22nd April

Join Archbishop Cushley on Saturday, 22nd April at 10am to pray the Rosary at Sacred Heart Church, Edinburgh, EH3 9DJ, followed by SPUC’s Pro-Life Chain at 11am on Lothian Road. Refreshments afterwards, approximately 1:15pm. Register for the Rosary: https://bit.ly/LifeFest23

Safeguarding Training Induction Part 1

If you are in need of Safeguarding training (Part I) here are the available dates:

• Face-to-face Training: 90 mins, Gillis Centre, Edinburgh, Friday 28th April at 1pm. To register, please email elaine.anderson@staned.org.uk providing details of your name, parish and role.

• Online Training: 90 mins, Thursday 11th May at 7pm. To register, please email margaret.andow@staned.org.uk providing details of your name, parish and role.

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, 30 April, 4-7pm at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street, EH9 1SN to explore God's will as we chat in monthly get-togethers in Edinburgh. The meetings are 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. Watch Sr. Mirjam discuss seeking God’s will in discerning your vocation in a short video, “What is God’s Plan for You?” at https://bit.ly/GodsCallforYou

Multilingual Welfare Workshops for EU Migrants

Citizens Rights Project, a charity that provides information, advice, and support to EU migrants and their family members in Scotland about their rights after Brexit, is organizing multilingual workshops on rights for EU migrants. They have partnered with organisations such as Shelter, Social Security Scotland or Unite to cover topics like housing, benefits, social security Scotland, and working rights, among others. If you would like to attend, please send your details to info@citizensrightsproject.org with the subject line “Welfare Workshops”. Please include your full name, email address and phone number. These workshops aim to provide EU migrants with information and tools to exercise their rights and ultimately make informed decisions.

Standing Strong 2023: Meet Persecuted Christians & Hear Their Stories

In Edinburgh, at St Paul’s and St George’s Church, Hea Woo from North Korea will be speaking and sharing her story of persecution for her faith. Hea Woo became a Christian in China in the 1990s after she fled North Korea – but she was arrested and sent back. She was imprisoned for many years, but did not give up her faith, leading other women in the prison to Jesus. She was eventually released and escaped to South Korea. Join us on Saturday 13th May, 2023, St Paul’s and St George’s Church, 46 York Place, 10am-2.30pm. Book tickets online at https://www.opendoorsuk.org/news/standing-strong/

Standing Strong is free to attend and refreshments will be provided. Open Doors to serves millions of persecuted Christians in over 60 countries, working with churches and local partners to provide Bibles, Christian materials, training, livelihood skills and advocacy.

 The Scottish Catholic Free E-Newsletter

The Scottish Catholic offers a free e-newsletter with news on the Catholic Church in Scotland. To receive it, just enter your email at the ‘sign-up’ section on www.scottishcatholic.com (scroll to bottom of the page).

Read the newsletter for 16th April (pdf)