Eighteenth Sunday Of The Year – Year C

Welcome Fr. Robert Taylor!

This week we welcome Fr. Robert, whom many of you already know, to his new assignment as Assistant Priest at the Cathedral and St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. He was ordained to the priesthood in June 2021 and recently completed his studies in Rome. I know you will make him very welcome!

The ‘Schola Cantorum’ Sings MacMillan – MONday, 15th August at 7.30pm

Don’t miss the special recital by our own Cathedral Choir (the Schola Cantorum) with choral music composed by James MacMillan on Monday 15th August to mark the Cathedral's Patronal Feast of the Assumption. Sir James MacMillan is Scotland’s most distinguished composer. At the concert, Sir James will discuss the relation between faith and music with Michael Ferguson, Director of the Schola Cantorum. For details, visit http://www.edinburghsacredartsfestival.org/festival-2022.html

Tickets are £15 and are available at the door or from the Fringe Box Office: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/sacred-arts-festival-music-at-st-mary-s-catholic-cathedral

Join Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral now to attend the reception after the concert on 15th August!

It’s not too late to join Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral and receive member benefits at The Schola Cantorum sings the music of Sir James MacMillan on 15 August. Hurry to receive priority seating at the concert and entry to the drinks reception afterwards! You can join here https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/friends. If you have joined already (thank you!) but you have not received confirmation of your subscription, please email ppccathedral@stmaryscathedral.co.uk and we will get in touch with you.

Over Sixties Club: Variety of Activities to Choose From

We are continuing and expanding activities for the Over Sixties Club:-

Coffee Afternoon on Tuesdays 2.30pm - 4pm, at Coffee Saints

Cinema outing every second week, next cinema trip is on Wednesday, 3rd August. We will be seeing Elvis and meeting upstairs at the Omni at 1:45 PM. Please note that this film is just under 3 hours long.

Book Club will meet up on the 4th August 2.30pm - 4pm, at Coffee Saints

Information Technology Clinic - last Thursday of the month, next session 25th August 11.30am - 1pm, at Coffee Saints.

2022 Marriage Preparation Course 27th August

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

First Saturday Devotions

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

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. We meet every Monday at 7:00 pm at 63 York Place, Edinburgh EH1 3JD and are a group of mixed male and female members, students and professionals and from different countries, cultures. For more information contact Monika – 07751213612 or Atama – 07832903514.

Want to Become Catholic?

If you or someone you know would like to become Catholic, you can sign up to learn about the teachings of the Catholic Church in preparation for receiving the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist at Easter 2023. Invite a friend to join you! The Cathedral’s Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) group meets between September and April each year. For more information, call the parish office at 0131 556 1798 or email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Choir Rehearsals

The Schola Cantorum will have rehearsals this morning and on Sunday 7 August, and so there will be no choir at the 12pm Mass today or next week. The choir is preparing for the special concert of the music of Sir James MacMillan in the Cathedral on Monday 15 August.

Festival Mass – 21st August

His Grace, the Archbishop, will celebrate the Festival Mass at the Cathedral. Plan to join us for this Mass!

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

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

Friday and Sunday Cafés in the Parish Rooms

Teas & coffees are available Sundays after 10:30am Mass - every Sunday! Additionally, the Friday cafe (10am-Noon) is available with delicious home-baking. Please join us for a cuppa and a chat at either or both cafes!

Pro-Life Play 8th August to 13th August at Edinburgh Fringe

As an Edinburgh Festival Fringe show this year, a pro-life play, ‘A Viking Summer’ will be performed from 8th August to 13th August, 7:00pm-8:30pm. The play follows the lives of several university women volunteering on the island of Iona for the summer, who have a summer romance with young men who are staying on the island. But when romance yields two unplanned pregnancies hard decisions must be made between ideals of youthful freedom and realities of adult responsibility. Tickets are priced £7, and £5 for concessions, available from the Edinburgh Fringe Office at https://bit.ly/VikingSummer. The play will be at Mannafields Christian School, Edinburgh EH7 6AE, with access via the car park and the entrance on Restalrig Road South, about 100 yards north of its junction with the A1. Walk through car park to school.

Children’s Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (Ages 3-7)

Nourish your child in the Catholic faith! The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a program rooted in Scripture and the liturgy of the Church, is offered, free of charge, at St. Columba’s Parish, 9 Upper Gray St, Edinburgh EH9 1SN. Children from any parish are welcome to take part.

Tuesdays: 10:30am - 12:30pm, 3-4 year olds

Fridays: 1:00pm - 2:30pm, 5-6 year olds

Fridays: 3:00pm - 4:30pm, 6+ year olds

To register, please contact Sister Anna Marie McGuan, RSM at SrAnna.Marie@staned.org.uk

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

St. Mary’s University’s Edinburgh campus offers a Master’s programme in Applied Catholic Theology that provides a grounding in key aspects of Catholic theology while enabling students to apply that theology to the challenges and opportunities of the contemporary world. Classes start in September! Studies include Scripture, Doctrine, Christian Spirituality, Catholic Social Teaching, and Ethics. In case you missed it, a 1-hour video is available at bit.ly/OpenEveningReplay of the 17 May Open Evening for the programme. Enjoy the flexibility of part-time courses on the evening and at weekends! For more information, visit www.stmarys.ac.uk/Edinburgh. Questions? Contact Susan Longhurst, Course Lead, susan.longhurst@stmarys.ac.uk, 07773 689535.

Free2Pray Online Session: Responding to Bill to Ban Public Prayers

The Scottish Parliament is considering a Bill which would ban peaceful prayers and offers of help near abortion clinics. Catholics concerned for freedom of speech and right of assembly are asked to respond to this proposed Bill. The Archdiocese is hosting an online session to help you do this. Free2Pray takes place on Zoom and lasts 30 mins. Register for Tuesday 2 August 7:45pm. Register at http://bit.ly/freetoprayaugust

Catholic Parliamentary Office Briefing on Abortion Bill

The Catholic Parliamentary Office has produced a two-page briefing on Gillian Mackay, MSP's proposal to introduce buffer zones around abortion facilities in Scotland. The briefing provides details on the proposal, highlights some concerns and shows how people can respond to the consultation, which closes on Thursday 11th August. Find it at https://rcpolitics.org/

National Pilgrimage for Young People Saturday 24 September

The National Pilgrimage for young people 16-30 takes place on Saturday 24 September in Dunkeld, Perthshire. Join young Catholics from across Scotland, along with priests and bishops, for this one-day pilgrimage. It includes walks to holy sites, talks and Holy Mass. A bus will leave from the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh at 9:30am (£10). To book your place email yi@staned.org.uk

The Way of St. Andrews Scottish Pilgrimage

Pilgrimage in Scotland? Try the “Little Camino”, as Scotland enjoys its long summer. Great trails, great scenery and a great opportunity for reflection. For details please visit http://www.thewayofstandrews.com/

The Scottish Catholic Magazine’s Latest Issue Now Available!

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

Cathedral’s Coffee Saints Café: Support Edinburgh’s Most Vulnerable

Café Open 7 Days a Week 9:00am-4:00pm

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

Feast of St Ignatius Loyola at Sacred Heart, Sunday, 31 July

The Jesuit-run parish of Sacred Heart, Lauriston, Edinburgh, will celebrate the Feast Day of St Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus, on Sunday 31 July. They invite everyone, especially former students of Jesuit schools and universities, to the 7:00pm Mass that day and to witness the reconsecration of the church and their ministry to the Sacred Heart. There will be a glass of wine afterwards to celebrate.

40 Hours’ Devotion

Each parish in the Archdiocese is having 40 hours of Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament to help renew our Faith and love of Jesus Christ. This weekend (31 July) it takes place at Our Lady & St Bridget’s, West Calder. The following weekend it is at St Joseph’s in Peebles and The Sacred Heart, Lauriston, Edinburgh. See parish websites/social media for details. Find out more about Eucharistic Adoration: https://bit.ly/40HoursPlaylist

Venerable Margaret Sinclair Pilgrimage on 18th September

The national Venerable Margaret Sinclair Pilgrimage is on Sunday 18 September. Find out more about this holy Edinburgh woman at http://www.margaretsinclair.scot

Read the newsletter for 31st July here (pdf)

Seventeenth Sunday Of The Year – Year C

Comings and Goings…

As you may know, after two happy years here at the Cathedral, Fr. John Peter has been appointed as Administrator of Musselburgh and Tranent. He has already been covering these parishes for a number of months, but he will move out of the Cathedral permanently in the next couple of weeks. Fr. John Peter has been a great asset to the Cathedral Community, and I would like to thank him for all that he has done during his time here. He will be greatly missed! In the meantime, Fr. Bobby Taylor, who has recently completed his studies in Rome, will move into the Cathedral next week to take over from Fr. Jamie. I know that you will make him very welcome.

The ‘Schola Cantorum’ Sings MacMillan – 15th August at 7.30pm

Our own Cathedral Choir (the Schola Cantorum) will be giving a special recital of choral music composed by James MacMillan on Monday 15th August to mark the Cathedral's Patronal Feast of the Assumption. Sir James MacMillan is, as you know, Scotland’s most distinguished composer. Sir James will be present at the concert and will discuss the relation between faith and music with Michael Ferguson, Director of the Schola Cantorum. For details, visit http://www.edinburghsacredartsfestival.org/festival-2022.html. Tickets are £15 and are available at the door or from the Fringe Box Office: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/sacred-arts-festival-music-at-st-mary-s-catholic-cathedral

Join the Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral Today!

Thank you to our subscribers to Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral. We’re pleased to say that the joint membership offer of £30 per month has been so popular that we will offer it permanently. You can join here https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/friends to access a super programme of events and to receive Crux, the new Cathedral magazine, straight to your door. We are currently confirming subscription details with all members. If you haven’t heard from us, we will be in touch with you soon about your membership and the first Friends event that we’re so excited about – the Schola Cantorum sings the music of Sir James MacMillan on 15 August. Hurry to join and receive priority seating and entry to the drinks reception afterwards!

Over Sixties Club: Variety of Activities to Choose From & New Activities

We are continuing and expanding activities for the Over Sixties Club:-

• Coffee Afternoon on Tuesdays 2.30pm - 4pm, at Coffee Saints

• Cinema outing every second week, next cinema trip is on Wednesday 3rd August, programme and time to be confirmed

• Book Club, every second week, 4th August 2.30pm - 4pm, at Coffee Saints

• Information Technology Clinic - last Thursday of the month, next session 28th July 11.30am - 1pm, at Coffee Saints

New Activities

EDINBURGH CASTLE visit, Wednesday 27th July 2pm - 4pm, meeting at Castlehill, spaces are limited to 20 people, pre booking is essential for this event, contact Graham.

DALKEITH COUNTRY PARK visit, Thursday 28th July 10.45am - 1.30pm, meeting a Coffee Saints, spaces are limited to 12 people, pre booking is required for this event, contact Graham.

Pre-Booking for the new activities is essential and on a first come, first served basis. If the places are all taken a reserve list will be compiled. If you miss out on this event you will have priority placing for further upcoming events. Contact Graham 07568 202 547 or graham@grassmarket.org

2022 Marriage Preparation Course 27th August

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

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. We meet every Monday at 7:00 pm at 63 York Place, Edinburgh EH1 3JD and are a group of mixed male and female members, students and professionals and from different countries, cultures. For more information contact Monika – 07751213612 or Atama – 07832903514.

Want to Become Catholic?

If you or someone you know would like to become Catholic, you can sign up to learn about the teachings of the Catholic Church in preparation for receiving the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist at Easter 2023. Invite a friend to join you! The Cathedral’s Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) group meets between September and April each year. For more information, call the parish office at 0131 556 1798 or email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

New Volunteers Needed for Cathedral Flower Arranging Team

As we hope you have noticed, we always have a beautiful display of flowers in the cathedral… These displays are prepared by wonderful teams of volunteers who take it in turn to meet on a Friday to arrange the flowers in preparation for the weekend Masses. To ease the burden of the current volunteers and to cover holidays/other absences, we are looking to recruit more volunteers to join our teams. There are currently four teams, who meet either mid-morning/early afternoon on a Friday and each team is led by an experienced volunteer, so lack of experience is not a barrier. If you would like to join team of flower arrangers, please contact Elizabeth Andrews at Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com

Cathedral Cleaning Volunteers Needed

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

Choir Holiday and Rehearsals

This Sunday the Schola Cantorum continues their well-earned summer break. Following this, the choir will rehearse for a special concert of the music of Sir James MacMillan in the Cathedral on Monday 15 August. The rehearsal sessions will happen on the mornings of Sunday 31 July and 7 August, and so there will be no choir at the 12pm Mass on those days.

Festival Mass – 21st August

His Grace, the Archbishop, will celebrate the Festival Mass at the Cathedral Plan to join us for this Mass!

Property Update

The major Parish House and Rooms electrical rewiring project at Ravelston is now complete, after a delay on the final few jobs. Thank you for your patience and thanks to all who donated towards this significant project. The boundary wall (& side gate) maintenance project has been delayed due, sadly, to health issues for the selected contractor. The fabric team are assessing options.

Today is World Day for Grandparents & the Elderly

World Day for Grandparents & the Elderly is this Sunday 24 July. This weekend especially, take some time to show gratitude for your grandparents and other elderly people in your lives. On this occasion, we would like to warmly thank all grandparents, the elderly, and their families for their gifts and contribution to our Parishes, the Church, and family life. Thank you!

Invitation to Catholic Women's Group: Blessed is She

If you are a Catholic woman looking for sisterhood and community, you are warmly invited to join Blessed is She (BIS), a group where women of all ages can come together to grow in prayer and fellowship, keeping one another company on the road to Heaven. We have study sessions and community groups, and though BIS started in America we now have a UK chapter, hosted online, with over 100 members. You can find out more at https://blessedisshe.net/about/ or email eloise@olimcomms.com for further details.

Children’s Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (Ages 3-7)

Nourish your child in the Catholic faith! The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a program rooted in Scripture and the liturgy of the Church, is offered, free of charge, at St. Columba’s Parish, 9 Upper Gray St, Edinburgh EH9 1SN. Children from any parish are welcome to take part.

Tuesdays: 10:30am - 12:30pm, 3-4 year olds

Fridays: 1:00pm - 2:30pm, 5-6 year olds

Fridays: 3:00pm - 4:30pm, 6+ year olds

To register, please contact Sister Anna Marie McGuan, RSM at SrAnna.Marie@staned.org.uk

Pray Daily with the Monks of Pluscarden Abbey

The monks of Pluscarden Abbey welcome you to join with them in prayer as they livestream Vespers (evening prayer) at 5:30pm weekdays and Compline (night prayer) at 7:50pm weekdays. Tune in daily to pray at https://www.pluscardenabbey.org/live. A timetable of the monks’ scheduled prayers each day is at https://www.pluscardenabbey.org/services Prayer texts are available online: https://universalis.com/. Pluscarden Abbey is a Catholic Benedictine monastery near Elgin, Scotland.

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

St. Mary’s University’s Edinburgh campus offers a Master’s programme in Applied Catholic Theology that provides a grounding in key aspects of Catholic theology while enabling students to apply that theology to the challenges and opportunities of the contemporary world. Classes start in September! Studies include Scripture, Doctrine, Christian Spirituality, Catholic Social Teaching, and Ethics. In case you missed it, a 1-hour video is available at bit.ly/OpenEveningReplay of the 17 May Open Evening for the programme. Enjoy the flexibility of part-time courses on the evening and at weekends! For more information, visit www.stmarys.ac.uk/Edinburgh. Questions? Contact Susan Longhurst, Course Lead, susan.longhurst@stmarys.ac.uk, 07773 689535.

Free2Pray Online Session: Responding to Bill to Ban Public Prayers

The Scottish Parliament is considering a Bill which would ban peaceful prayers and offers of help near abortion clinics. Catholics concerned for freedom of speech and right of assembly are asked to respond to this proposed Bill. The Archdiocese is hosting an online session to help you do this. Free2Pray takes place on Zoom and lasts 30 mins. Register for Tuesday 2 August 7:45pm. Register at https://bit.ly/freetoprayaugust

The Way of St. Andrews Scottish Pilgrimage

Pilgrimage in Scotland? Try the “Little Camino”, as Scotland enjoys its long summer. Great trails, great scenery and a great opportunity for reflection. For details please visit http://www.thewayofstandrews.com/

National Pilgrimage for Young People Saturday 24 September

The National Pilgrimage for young people 16-30 takes place on Saturday 24 September in Dunkeld, Perthshire. Join young Catholics from across Scotland, along with priests and bishops, for this one-day pilgrimage. It includes walks to holy sites, talks and Holy Mass. A bus will leave from the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh at 9:30am (£10). To book your place email yi@staned.org.uk

‘A Viking Summer’ Play Celebrating Life at Edinburgh Fringe

As an Edinburgh Festival Fringe show this year, a pro-life play, ‘A Viking Summer’ will be performed from 8th August to 13th August, 7:00pm-8:30pm. The play follows the lives of several university women volunteering on the island of Iona for the summer, who have a summer romance with young men who are staying on the island. But when romance yields two unplanned pregnancies hard decisions must be made between ideals of youthful freedom and realities of adult responsibility. Tickets are priced £7, and £5 for concessions, available from the Edinburgh Fringe Office at https://bit.ly/VikingSummer

The play will be at Mannafields Christian School, Edinburgh EH7 6AE, with access via the car park and the entrance on Restalrig Road South, about 100 yards north of its junction with the A1. Walk through car park to school.

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

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

Cathedral’s Coffee Saints Café: Support Edinburgh’s Most Vulnerable

Café Open 7 Days a Week 9:00am-4:00pm

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

And finally…

As Catholics, we believe Jesus is fully present in the Eucharist and His sacrifice on the cross is made present at each Mass. Come to Saturday morning Mass and Adoration of the Eucharist to contemplate and receive this sacred mystery. Mass is celebrated at 10:00am, followed by Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and concluding with Benediction at 12:00pm. Take some time for Adoration and come for 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour…. or more. Saturday Confessions are from 10:30am-12:00pm. Through the Eucharist, “we already unite ourselves with the heavenly liturgy and anticipate eternal life, when God will be all in all.” (Catechism, paragraph 1326)

Read the newsletter for 24th July (pdf)

Sixteenth Sunday Of The Year – Year C

Appreciation for Fr. Jamie – Retiral Collection

As you know, after a number of months diligently working both parishes, Fr. Jamie will be leaving us at the end of the month to take up his new position as Parish Priest of Davidson’s Mains. As an expression of our appreciation, there will be a retiral collection for his farewell presentation after all Masses this weekend. After four years and an enormous amount of achievement in our parishes, please consider a gift to express your gratitude for his time here.

Want to Become Catholic?

If you or someone you know would like to become Catholic, you can sign up to learn about the teachings of the Catholic Church in preparation for receiving the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist at Easter 2023. Invite a friend to join you! The Cathedral’s Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) group meets between September and April each year. For more information, call the parish office at 0131 556 1798 or email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Christian Meditation

Re-discover an ancient tradition that is a part of our Faith. Experience how silent contemplation in a group leads you to the joy of God´s healing. We meditate in person at 63 York Place on Fridays at 7.30 p.m. Afterwards you are welcome for refreshments and to socialize. On Wednesdays at 7 p.m. we meditate online on Zoom. The up-to-date schedule is here: https://www.meetup.com/Christian-Meditation-Group/events/ please contact Maciej Zurawski at maciej.m.zurawski@gmail.com

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

Cathedral’s Coffee Saints Café: Support Edinburgh’s Most Vulnerable

Café Open 7 Days a Week 9:00am-4:00pm

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

Over Sixties Club: Coffee, Cinema & New Thursday Book Club

Join the Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club for our weekly coffee afternoon on Tuesday from 2.30-4pm. Anyone over 60 years of age is very welcome! The next cinema outing for the over 60’s will be Wednesday 20th July. The film will be ‘Top Gun Maverick’. Meet upstairs at the Omni at 2.50pm. Additionally, a Thursday Book Club will be starting! Our first meeting will be Thursday 21st, 2.30pm-4:00pm. If you are interested, please contact Graham 07568 202 547 or graham@grassmarket.org

Over Sixties Information Technology Clinic Last Thursday of the Month

The Over Sixties Club offers an Information Technology (IT) Clinic that can help you with your questions about how to use your mobile phones and laptops. Stop in for IT help at Coffee Saints 11.30am - 1pm. Join us on the last Thursday of each month!

2022 Marriage Preparation Course 27th August

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

New Volunteers Needed for Cathedral Flower Arranging Team

As we hope you have noticed, we always have a beautiful display of flowers in the cathedral… These displays are prepared by wonderful teams of volunteers who take it in turn to meet on a Friday to arrange the flowers in preparation for the weekend Masses. To ease the burden of the current volunteers and to cover holidays/other absences, we are looking to recruit more volunteers to join our teams. There are currently four teams, who meet either mid-morning/early afternoon on a Friday and each team is led by an experienced volunteer, so lack of experience is not a barrier. If you would like to join team of flower arrangers, please contact Elizabeth Andrews at Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com

Cathedral Cleaning Volunteers Needed

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

Choir Holiday and Rehearsals

On Sundays 17 and 24 July the Schola Cantorum will be on their well-earned summer break. Following this, the choir will rehearse for a special concert of the music of Sir James MacMillan in the Cathedral on Monday 15 August. The rehearsal sessions will happen on the mornings of Sunday 31 July and 7 August, and so there will be no choir at the 12pm Mass on those days. See below for more details about the exciting event.

Save the Dates! Schola Recital and Festival Mass

Monday, 15th August: Mark your diary for ‘Schola Cantorum sings MacMillan,’ a recital 7:30pm on Monday, 15 August, the Cathedral's Patronal Feast of the Assumption. Sir James MacMillan is Scotland’s most distinguished composer, and Patron of Music at St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral. Sir James will discuss the relation between faith and music with Michael Ferguson, Director of the Schola Cantorum. All proceeds from the concert will go directly towards supporting the future of music at St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral. For details, visit http://www.edinburghsacredartsfestival.org/festival-2022.html Tickets are £15 and are available at the door or from the Fringe Box Office: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/sacred-arts-festival-music-at-st-mary-s-catholic-cathedral Come along and support the Cathedral!

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

World Day for Grandparents & the Elderly

World Day for Grandparents & the Elderly is on Sunday 24 July. Next weekend especially, take some time to show gratitude for their gifts and contribution to parish and family life. We warmly thank all grandparents, the elderly and their families for their ongoing commitment to our Parishes and the Church.

Pregnancy Support, Adoption Help, Abortion Recovery Care

There are a number of free, confidential, and non-judgemental resources available to women with unplanned pregnancies, or women who have had an abortion. To find out more or get involved, consider connecting with Stanton Healthcare (https://www.stantonscotland.org/ ), St. Margaret’s Children and Family Care Society (https://stmargaretsadoption.org.uk/ ), or Abortion Recovery Care and Helpline (https://www.archtrust.org.uk/ ).

A Warm Welcome Awaits You at Our Cafés in the Parish Rooms at Ravelston

Teas & coffees have already returned on Sundays after 10:30am Mass - every Sunday! Additionally, the Friday cafe (10am-Noon) has reopened with delicious home-baking. Please join us for a cuppa and a chat at either or both cafes!

Doctor, Nurse, or Generally Interested in Bioethics?

Want read good, short explanations of various issues in medicine? Visit the Educational Resources page for ‘Bioethics in Brief’ at https://www.bioethics.org.uk/ the new website of The Anscombe Bioethics Centre. Subscribe to its monthly digest for the latest news, events, and accessible briefings on moral matters in medicine at https://bit.ly/ABC-Subscribe

An Oxford-based research institute, the Centre serves the Catholic Church in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Established in 1977, the Centre promotes the study of Catholic bioethics in service of the common good by engaging with moral questions arising from clinical practice and biomedical research.

5-Day Icon Painting Workshop at Leith School of Art, Edinburgh

The icon-painter Andrew Paterson will be providing a rare opportunity to learn how to practise the basic traditional techniques of Christian iconography in egg tempera, together with daily slide-talks on the visual language and theological meanings of the icon. No previous experience required. Monday 25th to Friday 29th July 2022. 9.30am to 4.30pm each day. £ 385 (includes all materials). For further details see the website of Leith School of Art: https://www.leithschoolofart.co.uk/course-info/606/icon-painting

Pray Daily with the Monks of Pluscarden Abbey

The monks of Pluscarden Abbey welcome you to join with them in prayer as they livestream Vespers (evening prayer) at 5:30pm weekdays and Compline (night prayer) at 7:50pm weekdays. Tune in daily to pray at https://www.pluscardenabbey.org/live

A timetable of the monks’ scheduled prayers each day is at https://www.pluscardenabbey.org/services Prayer texts are available online: https://universalis.com/ Pluscarden Abbey is a Catholic Benedictine monastery near Elgin, Scotland.

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

St. Mary’s University’s Edinburgh campus offers a Master’s programme in Applied Catholic Theology that provides a grounding in key aspects of Catholic theology while enabling students to apply that theology to the challenges and opportunities of the contemporary world. Classes start in September! Studies include Scripture, Doctrine, Christian Spirituality, Catholic Social Teaching, and Ethics. In case you missed it, a 1-hour video is available at bit.ly/OpenEveningReplay of the 17 May Open Evening for the programme. Enjoy the flexibility of part-time courses on the evening and at weekends! For more information, visit www.stmarys.ac.uk/Edinburgh. Questions? Contact Susan Longhurst, Course Lead, susan.longhurst@stmarys.ac.uk, 07773 689535.

Free2Pray Online Session: Responding to Bill to Ban Public Prayers

The Scottish Parliament is considering a Bill which would ban peaceful prayers and offers of help near abortion clinics. Catholics concerned for freedom of speech and right of assembly are asked to respond to this proposed Bill. The Archdiocese is hosting 30-minute online sessions to help you do this. Register for one of the following dates: http://bit.ly/freetoprayaugust

‘A Viking Summer’ Play Celebrating Life at Edinburgh Fringe

As an Edinburgh Festival Fringe show this year, a pro-life play, ‘A Viking Summer’ will be performed from 8th August to 13th August, 7:00pm-8:30pm. The play follows the lives of several university women volunteering on the island of Iona for the summer, who have a summer romance with young men who are staying on the island. But when romance yields two unplanned pregnancies hard decisions must be made between ideals of youthful freedom and realities of adult responsibility. Tickets are priced £7, and £5 for concessions, available from the Edinburgh Fringe Office at https://bit.ly/VikingSummer The play will be at Mannafields Christian School, Edinburgh EH7 6AE, with access via the car park and the entrance on Restalrig Road South, about 100 yards north of its junction with the A1. Walk through car park to school.

National Pilgrimage for Young People Saturday 24 September

The National Pilgrimage for young people 16-30 takes place on Saturday 24 September in Dunkeld, Perthshire. Join young Catholics from across Scotland, along with priests and bishops, for this one-day pilgrimage. It includes walks to holy sites, talks and Holy Mass. A bus will leave from the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh at 9:30am (£10). To book your place email yi@staned.org.uk

Children’s Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (Ages 3-7)

Nourish your child in the Catholic faith! The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a program rooted in Scripture and the liturgy of the Church, is offered, free of charge, to children ages 3-7 at St. Columba’s Parish, 9 Upper Gray St, Edinburgh EH9 1SN. Children from any parish are welcome to take part.

Tuesdays: 10:30am - 12:30pm, 3-4 year olds

Fridays: 1:00pm - 2:30pm, 5-6 year olds

Fridays: 3:00pm - 4:30pm, 6+ year olds

To register, please contact Sister Anna Marie McGuan, RSM at SrAnna.Marie@staned.org.uk. To learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, visit http://www.cgsuk.org/

Bethany Christian Trust — Volunteering Opportunities

Bridge to Freedom: Christian Community-based Addiction Recovery

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

Passing the Baton: Help Former Homeless Reconnect to Community

Volunteers are needed for ‘Passing the Baton,’ a befriending service for those previously homeless or at risk. Befrienders help individuals reconnect back into the community (we match male-male and female-female) and are in touch with their befriendee 1.5-2 hours weekly/fortnightly, for 6-12 months.

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

Read the newsletter for 17th July (pdf)

Fifteenth Sunday Of The Year – Year C

Farewell to Fr. Jamie!

Finally, after a number of months working both parishes, Fr. Jamie will be leaving us at the end of the month to take up his new position as Parish Priest of Davidson’s Mains. Fr. Jamie has been here for four years and has achieved an enormous amount in both parishes. He has worked incredibly hard and has, I know, won the hearts of all. It is only appropriate that we express our thanks to him and so next week after all the Masses there will be a retiral collection for his farewell presentation. I know you will want to express your gratitude for all that he has done for us in his time here.

Parish Pilgrimage Returns from the Holy Land

Our group of 43 hearty and joyful pilgrims returned last week from our parish’s Holy Land pilgrimage, which was very beautiful and prayerful. We prayed for all of you in the holy places as we journeyed around the Sea of Galilee and Jerusalem in the footsteps of the Lord. Thank you for your prayers for us!

Eucharistic Adoration on Saturday Mornings

“I am the bread of life. No one who comes to me will ever hunger; no one who believes in me will ever thirst.” (John 6:35). We are hungry for God and for His peace. God Incarnate, Jesus Christ, provides us with His own Body and Blood to feed us. What better place to pray than before Jesus present in the Blessed Sacrament? Come for some time of Eucharistic Adoration. On Saturday mornings, Adoration is celebrated following 10:00am Mass, from 10:30am-12:00pm. Come for 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour…. or more. Saturday Confessions are from 10:30am-12:00pm.

Over Sixties Club: Coffee, Cinema & New Thursday Book Club

Join the Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club for our weekly coffee afternoon on Tuesday from 2.30-4pm. Anyone over 60 years of age is very welcome! The next cinema outing for the over 60’s will be Wednesday 20th July with the programme to be confirmed. In a new venture, a Thursday Book Club will be starting with the first discussion and set up to be Thursday 14th July at Coffee Saints 2.30 till 4pm. The proposal is to meet fortnightly from Thursday, 21st July. The first meeting is to gauge the format and structure the book club should take. If you are interested either come along or contact Graham 07568 202 547 or graham@grassmarket.org Also, save the date for a proposed group outing to Dalkeith Country Park on 28th July. More information to come.

Over Sixties Information Technology Clinic Last Thursday of the Month

The Over Sixties Club offers an Information Technology (IT) Clinic that can help you with your questions about how to use your mobile phones and laptops. Stop in for IT help at Coffee Saints 11.30am - 1pm. Join us on the last Thursday of each month!

Today is Sea Sunday – Special Collection for Seafarers and Fishers in Need

Today the Church prays for all those who earn their living from the Sea and their families. There will be a retiring collection for Stella Maris, the Church’s maritime welfare agency, which supports seafarers both spiritually and practically through its network of chaplains and volunteers. Without your help it cannot do its work. Anne Marie Stephen, a volunteer for Stella Maris, will give a short report at Masses on the work of this organisation. More information is available at https://www.stellamaris.org.uk/

If you are a UK taxpayer and would like to gift aid your donation, please use the Sea Sunday envelopes that are available at the back of the church. Please enter your details on the envelope where indicated so that gift aid can be claimed by the charity. Thank you for your generosity.

2022 Marriage Preparation Course 27th August

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

Want to Become Catholic?

If you or someone you know would like to become Catholic, you can sign up to learn about the teachings of the Catholic Church in preparation for receiving the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist at Easter 2023. Invite a friend to join you! The Cathedral’s Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) group meets between September and April each year. For more information, call the parish office at 0131 556 1798 or email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Christian Meditation

Re-discover an ancient tradition that is a part of our Faith. Experience how silent contemplation in a group leads you to the joy of God´s healing. We meditate in person at 63 York Place on Fridays at 7.30 p.m. Afterwards you are welcome for refreshments and to socialize. On Wednesdays at 7 p.m. we meditate online on Zoom. The up-to-date schedule is here: https://www.meetup.com/Christian-Meditation-Group/events/ please contact Maciej Zurawski at maciej.m.zurawski@gmail.com

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

New Volunteers Needed for Cathedral Flower Arranging Team

As we hope you have noticed, we always have a beautiful display of flowers in the cathedral… These displays are prepared by wonderful teams of volunteers who take it in turn to meet on a Friday to arrange the flowers in preparation for the weekend Masses. To ease the burden of the current volunteers and to cover holidays/other absences, we are looking to recruit more volunteers to join our teams. There are currently four teams, who meet either mid-morning/early afternoon on a Friday and each team is led by an experienced volunteer, so lack of experience is not a barrier if you are interested in providing this ministry. Can you help? If you would like to join team of flower arrangers, or find out more, please contact Elizabeth Andrews at Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com

Cathedral Cleaning Volunteers Needed

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

Safeguarding in the Parish

Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of any member/visitor to our Parish is important to us. If you have any safeguarding concerns or need support as you were a victim of abuse, you can get help by visiting https://archedinburgh.org/administration/#safeguarding. To discuss in confidence any concerns, contact: Emma Boothroyd, Safeguarding Advisor, Emma.Boothroyd@staned.org.uk, 0131 623 8949 / 07903 619 342 or write to: The Safeguarding Advisor, Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB.

6pm Ravelston Mass Resumes Monday, 11th July

Please note that the 6pm evening Mass at Ravelston will resume this week. We look forward to seeing you again on weekday evenings.

A Warm Welcome Awaits You at Our Cafés in the Parish Rooms

Teas & coffees have already returned on Sundays after 10:30am Mass - every Sunday! Additionally, the Friday cafe (10am-Noon) has reopened with delicious home-baking. Please join us for a cuppa and a chat at either or both cafes!

5-Day Icon Painting Workshop at Leith School of Art, Edinburgh

The icon-painter Andrew Paterson will be providing a rare opportunity to learn how to practise the basic traditional techniques of Christian iconography in egg tempera, together with daily slide-talks on the visual language and theological meanings of the icon. No previous experience required. Monday 25th to Friday 29th July 2022. 9.30am to 4.30pm each day. £ 385 (includes all materials). For further details see the website of Leith School of Art: https://www.leithschoolofart.co.uk/course-info/606/icon-painting

Invitation to Catholic Women's Group: Blessed is She

If you are a Catholic woman looking for sisterhood and community, you are warmly invited to join Blessed is She (BIS), a group where women of all ages can come together to grow in prayer and fellowship, keeping one another company on the road to Heaven. We have study sessions and community groups, and though BIS started in America we now have a UK chapter, hosted online, with over 100 members. You can find out more at https://blessedisshe.net/about/ or email eloise@olimcomms.com for further details.

Free2Pray Online Session: Responding to Bill to Ban Public Prayers

The Scottish Parliament is considering a Bill which would ban peaceful prayers and offers of help near abortion clinics. Catholics concerned for freedom of speech and right of assembly are asked to respond to this proposed Bill. The Archdiocese is hosting an online session to help you do this. Free2Pray takes place on Zoom and lasts 30 mins. Register for one of the following dates: Monday 18 July 7:45pm – Register at https://bit.ly/freetoprayjuly Tuesday 2 August 7:45pm. Register at bit.ly/freetoprayaugust.

Festival Mass on Sunday 21 August

Archbishop Cushley will celebrate the Festival Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral at midday on Sunday 21 August, followed by a reception in Coffee Saints café.

Synod Report

The Archdiocesan synod report has been published and submitted to the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland. Read it at https://bit.ly/oursynodreport

National Pilgrimage for Young People Saturday 24 September

The National Pilgrimage for young people 16-30 takes place on Saturday 24 September in Dunkeld, Perthshire. Join young Catholics from across Scotland, along with priests and bishops, for this one-day pilgrimage. It includes walks to holy sites, talks and Holy Mass. A bus will leave from the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh at 9:30am (£10). To book your place email yi@staned.org.uk

Bethany Christian Trust — Volunteering Opportunities

Bridge to Freedom: Christian Community-based Addiction Recovery

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

Passing the Baton: Help Former Homeless Reconnect to Community

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

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

The Way of St. Andrews Scottish Pilgrimage

Pilgrimage in Scotland? Try the “Little Camino”, as Scotland enjoys its long summer. Great trails, great scenery and a great opportunity for reflection. For details please visit http://www.thewayofstandrews.com/

Come and Sing

Would you like to sing Mozart’s Coronation Mass in beautiful St Cuthbert’s Parish Church, Edinburgh? The Soko Fund is organising an event to raise money for women’s education in Malawi. This event will take place on Saturday 24th September 2022. Singers of every level and experience are welcome. Book your place on https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/come-sing-mozart-coronation-mass-music-for-malawi-tickets-209954929847

To find out more about the Soko Fund visit https://www.thesokofund.org/

Cathedral and Archdiocesan Updates by E-mail

Receive the Cathedral newsletter straight into your inbox by signing up at the ‘Stay in Touch’ section on the bottom of any page of this website. To be informed about Archdiocesan news, you may sign up for a monthly e-mail update at https://archedinburgh.org/news-events (scroll to bottom of page) or email matthew.meade@staned.org.uk and put ‘subscribe me’ in the subject bar.

Read the newsletter for 10th July (pdf)

Thirteenth Sunday Of The Year – Year C

Wednesday is a Holy Day of Obligation

This Wednesday is the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul and is a holy day of obligation. Masses will be celebrated at the Cathedral at 8:00am, 10am, 12:45pm and 7:30pm. Polish Mass will be at 6:00pm.

Parish Pilgrimage to the Holy Land

Hopefully by the time you read this I will be in the Holy Land – along with 47 of our parishioners. Please keep us in your prayers that we will get there and back safely, and be sure that we will be praying for you and for your intentions.

First Saturday Devotions

Next Saturday, 2 July at 9:30am there will be devotions to Our Lady of Fatima here in the Cathedral, followed by 10:00am Mass. All are welcome!

Eucharistic Adoration on Saturday Mornings

“The bread that I shall give is my flesh, for the life of the world” (John 6:51). In this month when the Church especially celebrates the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, Corpus Christi, come for some time of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament here at the Cathedral. On Saturday mornings, Adoration is celebrated following 10:00am Mass, from 10:30am-12:00pm. It is the perfect time to pray before the Risen Lord, or meditate on the readings for Sunday Mass. Come for 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour…. or more. Jesus Himself is present, Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity. Saturday Confessions are from 10:30am-12:00pm.

New Volunteers Needed for Cathedral Flower Arranging Team

As we hope you have noticed, we always have a beautiful display of flowers in the cathedral… These displays are prepared by wonderful teams of volunteers who take it in turn to meet on a Friday to arrange the flowers in preparation for the weekend Masses. To ease the burden of the current volunteers and to cover holidays/other absences, we are looking to recruit more volunteers to join our teams. There are currently four teams, who meet either mid-morning/early afternoon on a Friday and each team is led by an experienced volunteer, so lack of experience is not a barrier if you are interested in providing this ministry. Can you help? If you would like to join team of flower arrangers, or find out more, please contact Elizabeth Andrews at Elizabeth@rhandrews.plus.com

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

Join the Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club for our weekly coffee afternoon on Tuesday from 2.30-4pm. Anyone over 60 years of age is very welcome! The next cinema outing for the over 60’s will be Wednesday 6th July. More information to come.

Over Sixties Information Technology Clinic This Thursday, 30th June

The Over Sixties Club offers an Information Technology (IT) Clinic that can help you with your questions about how to use your mobile phones, tablets, and laptops. Stop in for IT help at Coffee Saints 11.30am - 1pm, this Thursday 30th June. Join us on the last Thursday of each month!

2022 Marriage Preparation Course 27th August

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

Christian Meditation

Re-discover an ancient tradition that is a part of our Faith. Experience how silent contemplation in a group leads you to the joy of God´s healing. We meditate in person at 63 York Place on Fridays at 7.30 p.m. Afterwards you are welcome for refreshments and to socialize. On Wednesdays at 7 p.m. we meditate online on Zoom. The up-to-date schedule is here: https://www.meetup.com/Christian-Meditation-Group/events/ please contact Maciej Zurawski at maciej.m.zurawski@gmail.com

6pm Vigil Mass on Wednesday, 28 June for Holy Day of Obligation

A 6pm Vigil Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, 28 June for the Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul, a Holy Day of Obligation, which is Thursday, 29 June. Please note there will be no Mass at Ravelston on Thursday, 29 June.

No 6pm Ravelston Mass until 11th July

Please note that, other than the Wednesday, 28 June Mass at 6:00pm noted above, while we are away in the Holy Land there will be no evening Mass at Ravelston. I am sorry about this, but it just hasn’t been possible to find supply priests to cover this period. Normal service will be resumed in the week beginning 11th July!

Friday Café Cancelled on 1st July, Sunday Café as Usual after Mass

The Friday café for 1st July is cancelled, but will return on Friday, 8th July. Sunday teas & coffees will be held as usual after 10:30am Mass today. Please join us for a cuppa and a chat!

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

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

Outdoor Stations of the Cross – Come and Pray

In these beautiful summer months, the outdoor Stations of the Cross at Ravelston are always available at for you to come and pray and meditate on the Lord’s Way of the Cross. Each Station offers an opportunity to pray in thanksgiving for Christ’s Passion and death for our salvation. Why not cultivate a regular devotion to the Stations of the Cross and make a practice of coming once a week or once a month for this traditional spiritual exercise?

5-Day Icon Painting Workshop at Leith School of Art, Edinburgh

The icon-painter Andrew Paterson will be providing a rare opportunity to learn how to practise the basic traditional techniques of Christian iconography in egg tempera, together with daily slide-talks on the visual language and theological meanings of the icon. No previous experience required. Monday 25th to Friday 29th July 2022. 9.30am to 4.30pm each day. £385 (includes all materials). For further details see the website of Leith School of Art: https://www.leithschoolofart.co.uk/course-info/606/icon-painting

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

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

Come and Sing

Would you like to sing Mozart’s Coronation Mass in beautiful St Cuthbert’s Parish Church, Edinburgh? The Soko Fund (http://www.thesokofund.org ) is organising an event to raise money for women’s education in Malawi. This event will take place on Saturday 24th September 2022. Singers of every level and experience are welcome. Book your place on https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/come-sing-mozart-coronation-mass-music-for-malawi-tickets-209954929847

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/

Mission House 2023: A Year of Formation, Adventure and Fellowship

Craig Lodge's new Mission House offers a nine-month programme, for anyone between the ages of 18-30, that sets out to form spirit-filled evangelizers for the renewal of the Church. Apply online and watch the trailer for Mission House at https://www.craiglodge.org/ministries/mission-house Living and working together missionaries encourage one another on the path to holiness, and are sent out from the mission house to the streets, high schools, parishes and wherever the Lord calls.

The Way of St. Andrews Scottish Pilgrimage

Pilgrimage in Scotland? Try the “Little Camino”, as Scotland enjoys its long summer. Great trails, great scenery and a great opportunity for reflection. For details please visit http://www.thewayofstandrews.com/

Job Opportunity with Bethany Christian Trust:

‘Passing the Baton Facilitator’

This role supports people who have a history of homelessness, helping to see isolation and loneliness reduced in Edinburgh. Bethany Christian Trust works closely with churches and community groups to help connect people into local activities and build strong healthy relationships and social networks. The position of ‘Passing the Baton Facilitator’ involves working with a teammate and a group of existing and new volunteers to facilitate the delivery of the Passing the Baton (PtB) befriending service with the aim of reducing loneliness for isolated people as they move towards interdependent living. The job is full time (37.5 hours/week) with salary arrange of £24,012 – £26,852. Closing date no later than 10am on Monday 4th July 2022. Please visit https://www.bethanychristiantrust.com/jobs-volunteering/jobs1/ for full details and contact information.

National Pilgrimage for Venerable Margaret Sinclair, Sunday 18 September

The national Venerable Margaret Sinclair Pilgrimage is on Sunday 18 September to pray at her tomb at St. Patrick’s, Cowgate EH1 1NA for her beatification. The pilgrimage opens at 2:00pm at St. Patrick’s, with 4:30pm Holy Mass and refreshments following. For more about this holy Edinburgh woman, who died in 1925 and whose cause for canonization was introduced in 1942, please visit www.margaretsinclair.scot

Free Mobility Services Available from St. James Quarter Car Park

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

Cathedral and Archdiocesan Updates by E-mail

Receive the Cathedral newsletter straight into your inbox by signing up at the ‘Stay in Touch’ section on the bottom of any page of this website. To be informed about Archdiocesan news, you may sign up for a monthly e-mail update at https://archedinburgh.org/news-events (scroll to bottom of page) or email matthew.meade@staned.org.uk and put ‘subscribe me’ in the subject bar.

Second Collection Today – Peter’s Pence

A second collection will take place today, Sunday 26 June for Peter’s Pence. This annual collection gives the Holy Father the means to provide charity and emergency assistance to those most in need. For more information, please visit https://www.obolodisanpietro.va/en.html

Read the newsletter for 26th June (pdf)

Solemnity Of Most Holy Body & Blood Of Christ – Year C

Young Adults Group – This Tuesday at 7pm

Fr Patrick will finish his series of talks on personal prayer on the 21st of June at 63 York Place. We begin with tea and coffee at 7pm and then the talk itself starts at 7.30pm. Afterwards, we'll pray Compline together and then retire to the pub. Hope to see you all there! All adults, aged 18-35, very welcome!

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

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

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

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: Monika - 07751213612, Atama – 07832903514.

Christian Meditation

Re-discover an ancient tradition that is a part of our Faith. Experience how silent contemplation in a group leads you to the joy of God´s healing. We meditate in person at 63 York Place on Fridays at 7.30 p.m. Afterwards you are welcome for refreshments and to socialize. On Wednesdays at 7 p.m. we meditate online on Zoom. The up-to-date schedule is here: https://www.meetup.com/Christian-Meditation-Group/events/ please contact Maciej Zurawski at maciej.m.zurawski@gmail.com; 0771 777 2614.

Visit Coffee Saints café and Support Edinburgh’s Most Vulnerable

Café Open 7 Days a Week 9am-4PM

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

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

Join the Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club for our weekly coffee afternoon on Tuesday from 2.30-4pm. Anyone over 60 years of age is very welcome! The next cinema outing for the over 60’s will be Wednesday 22nd June. The film will be ‘Top Gun: Maverick’. Meet upstairs at the Omni at 12.15pm.

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

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

Cathedral Cleaning Volunteers Needed

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

2022 Marriage Preparation Course 27th August

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

Holy Land Pilgrimage

Just to let you know that I will be away with 50 of our parishioners to the Holy Land from this coming Friday. We have been planning this pilgrimage for years now (delayed because of Covid) so please say a prayer that BA deign to fly us there and that we all get back safe and sound on Tuesday 5th July. Please be sure that we will pray for the Parish and all our parishioners at the Holy Places.

No 6pm Mass from 25th June until 11th July

Please note that while we are away in the Holy Land there will be no evening Mass at Ravelston. I am sorry about this, but it just hasn’t been possible to find supply priests to cover this period. Normal service will be resumed in the week beginning 11th July.

A Warm Welcome Awaits You at Our Cafés in the Parish Rooms

Teas & coffees have already returned on Sundays after 10:30am Mass at Ravelston - every Sunday! Additionally, the Friday cafe (10am-Noon) has reopened with delicious home-baking. Please join us for a cuppa and a chat at either or both cafes!

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

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

The Scottish Catholic Magazine’s 17th June Issue Now Available!

The Scottish Catholic magazine’s 17th June issue has arrived with news, opinions and features on Catholic life in Scotland. A new edition is printed every two weeks. The Scottish Catholic is the only publication dedicated to Scotland’s 600,000 Catholics. For just £2 pick up your copy on the table in the Octagon while supplies last! Please put monies in the box at the pillar after you enter the Cathedral. Thank you! For more information, visit https://www.scottishcatholic.com/

Archdiocesan St Vincent de Paul Mass on Friday, 24 June

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

Justice & Peace Event on Saturday, 25 June

An event titled Caritas, Justice and Peace – a Synodal Way Forward takes place on Saturday 25 June, 10:00am-3:30pm at Ss John Cantius & Nicholas, Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5RJ. It’s a chance for everyone who sees Caritas, Justice and Peace as integral to their Catholic faith to participate in shaping the agenda of the Archdiocesan Commission for Caritas, Justice & Peace over the next two years. All welcome. Details and registration at http://bit.ly/justiceandpeaceevent

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

A Family Afternoon at the Gillis Centre will take place on Saturday 25 June, 2.00pm-5.00pmat the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. It will include separate sessions for adults and children, focusing on The Eucharist: Source of Family Love, family prayer time in St Margaret’s Chapel and family games. This event coincides with the 10th World Meeting of Families taking place in Rome. Details and registration at https://bit.ly/ArchEventbrite

PVG Volunteers Needed for Family Afternoon

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

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

St. Mary’s University’s Edinburgh campus offers a Master’s programme in Applied Catholic Theology that provides a grounding in key aspects of Catholic theology while enabling students to apply that theology to the challenges and opportunities of the contemporary world. Classes start in September! Studies include Scripture, Doctrine, Christian Spirituality, Catholic Social Teaching, and Ethics. In case you missed it, a 1-hour video is available at bit.ly/OpenEveningReplay of the 17 May Open Evening for the programme. Enjoy the flexibility of part-time courses on the evening and at weekends! For more information, visit http://www.stmarys.ac.uk/Edinburgh Questions? Contact Susan Longhurst, Course Lead, susan.longhurst@stmarys.ac.uk 07773 689535.

Archdiocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage 8 July – 15 July 2022

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

Craig Lodge Retreat House

Originally a Hunting Lodge, Craig Lodge is now a family house of prayer that seeks to welcome those who are 'hunting' for the Lord, thirsty and hungry to know him better. The grounds, nestled in Glen Orchy and surrounded by beautiful hills and mountains, provide a number of beautiful 'rooms,' both indoor and outdoor, in which to discover God's presence. Design a custom retreat, or take part in one of the many retreat events offered. For more information visit https://www.craiglodge.org/ministries/retreats Craig Lodge, Dalmally, Argyll, Scotland, PA33 1AR, 01838 200216, mail@craiglodge.org

Mission House 2023: A Year of Formation, Adventure and Fellowship

Craig Lodge's new Mission House offers a nine-month programme, for anyone between the ages of 18-30, that sets out to form spirit-filled evangelizers for the renewal of the Church. Apply online and watch the trailer for Mission House at https://www.craiglodge.org/ministries/mission-house Living and working together missionaries encourage one another on the path to holiness, and are sent out from the mission house to the streets, high schools, parishes and wherever the Lord calls.

Relics of St. Bernadette to Visit Carfin Grotto

Carfin Grotto will host the relics of St Bernadette from 24th September until 2nd October 2022, the only Scottish venue to receive the relics. This will coincide with the centenary of the Grotto on 2nd October. For more information or to plan a visit to the grotto this summer, visit https://www.carfingrotto.org/ Carfin Grotto, situated in the Parish of St Francis Xavier's in the village of Carfin, near Motherwell in North Lanarkshire, is Scotland's National Shrine to Our Lady of Lourdes. The grotto is open 365 day a year, with Daily Masses, Confession, and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament.

Come and Sing

Would you like to sing Mozart’s Coronation Mass in beautiful St Cuthbert’s Parish Church, Edinburgh? The Soko Fund is organising an event to raise money for women’s education in Malawi. This event will take place on Saturday 24th September 2022. Singers of every level and experience are welcome. Book your place on https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/come-sing-mozart-coronation-mass-music-for-malawi-tickets-209954929847 To find out more about the Soko Fund visit https://www.thesokofund.org/

Safeguarding in the Parish

Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of any member/visitor to our Parish is important to us. If you have any safeguarding concerns or need support as you were a victim of abuse, you can get help by visiting https://archedinburgh.org/administration/#safeguarding To discuss in confidence any concerns, contact: Emma Boothroyd, Safeguarding Advisor, Emma.Boothroyd@staned.org.uk 0131 623 8949 / 07903 619 342 or write to: The Safeguarding Advisor, Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB.

Cathedral and Archdiocesan Updates by E-mail

Receive the Cathedral newsletter straight into your inbox by signing up at the ‘Stay in Touch’ section on the bottom of any page of this website. To be informed about Archdiocesan news, you may sign up for a monthly e-mail update at https://archedinburgh.org/news-events (scroll to bottom of page) or email matthew.meade@staned.org.uk and put ‘subscribe me’ in the subject bar.

Read the newsletter for 19th June (pdf)

Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity – Year C

Franciscan Missionary Sisters for Africa

Sr. Ann McAllister, who made the appeal last week for the Franciscan Sisters for Africa, writes:

Dear Parishioners,

Sincere gratitude to each one of you for your wonderful generosity and kindness to me and my Congregation when I came for the Mission Appeal. Your generosity is really overwhelming and I can assure you that it will be put to good use for the benefit of vulnerable families and needy children. Your very warm welcome made my task so much easier and much pleasanter than usual, and for this I am grateful. I feel I made new friends. Assuring you of our prayers and please remember me also. May our Loving God bless each one of you and your families.

Yours in Christ and St. Francis, Sr. Ann

Welcome to New Complex Manager!

I am delighted to let you know that, after the tragic death of Andy Hilton, we have finally managed to recruit a new Complex Manager, Alice Harrison. Alice has a wealth of experience in administration and comes to us after years of working in Schools. I know that you will welcome her and I am very confident that we will now be able to press ahead with some of the important fabric issues which have been on hold for some time.

Young Adults Group – This Tuesday at 7pm

Last Tuesday, Fr Patrick delivered the first of three in a series of talks on personal prayer, giving some ideas on how we can go deeper in our spiritual lives. The next two talks will be on the 14th and 21st of June and will take place, as usual, at 63 York Place, with tea and coffee at 7pm and the talk itself beginning at 7.30pm. Afterwards, we'll pray Compline together and then retire to the pub. Hope to see you all there! All adults, aged 18-35, very welcome!

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

Thank you to our parishioners who have joined Friends of the Cathedral! We have introduced a special offer for a limited time only - joint membership for £30 per month. This gives access to an excellent programme of events, starting with a music event with Sir James MacMillan in August, and you will receive the Friends magazine, Crux, that is specially created for our members. You can join Friends of the Cathedral here: https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/friends

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

Christian Meditation

Re-discover an ancient tradition that is a part of our Faith. Experience how silent contemplation in a group leads you to the joy of God´s healing. We meditate in person at 63 York Place on Fridays at 7.30 p.m. Afterwards you are welcome for refreshments and to socialize. On Wednesdays at 7 p.m. we meditate online on Zoom. The up-to-date schedule is here: https://www.meetup.com/Christian-Meditation-Group/events/ please contact Maciej Zurawski at maciej.m.zurawski@gmail.com

Saturday Morning Eucharistic Adoration

As we prepare for the Archdiocese’s Corpus Christi procession on Saturday 19 June, 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. It is the perfect time to pray the Rosary or read the Scriptures, mediating on the readings for Sunday Mass. Come for 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour…. or more. Saturday Confessions are from 10:30am-12:00pm. “Jesus has made Himself the Bread of Life to give us life. Night and day, He is there. If you really want to grow in love, come back to the Eucharist, come back to that Adoration.” (St. Teresa of Calcutta)

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

Join the Cathedral’s Over Sixties Club for our weekly coffee afternoon on Tuesday from 2.30-4pm. Anyone over 60 years of age is very welcome! The next cinema outing for the over 60’s will be Wednesday 22nd June. More information to come.

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

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

Cathedral Cleaning Volunteers Needed

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

2022 Marriage Preparation Course 27th August

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

Sacred Heart Novena after 6pm Masses this Month

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

Friday Coffee for Alzheimer’s Society Rescheduled for 17th June

Due to unforeseen circumstances, we unfortunately had to cancel last Friday’s coffee for the Alzheimer’s Society. It has been rescheduled for Friday, 17th June 10am-Noon. Please come along and contribute to raising funds for the Alzheimer’s Society. It is a wonderful way to support those affected by Alzheimer’s. Come out to support this wonderful cause and enjoy some delicious cakes!

Next Sunday: Corpus Christi Procession in Falkirk

You are invited next Sunday, 19th June at 3:00pm to join in the Archdiocese’s Corpus Christi procession, led by Archbishop Cushley, at St Francis Xavier’s in Falkirk. Gather at the Bandstand in High Street (FK1 1YD) before processing to St Francis Xavier’s Parish (around 20 min walk). This is a major event for the Archdiocese and should be a beautiful and prayerful experience, as well as a chance to be a witness to the Eucharistic Christ in public.

Archdiocesan St Vincent de Paul Mass on Friday, 24 June

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

Justice & Peace Event on Saturday, 25 June

An event titled Caritas, Justice and Peace – a Synodal Way Forward takes place on Saturday 25 June, 10:00am-3:30pm at Ss John Cantius & Nicholas, Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5RJ. It’s a chance for everyone who sees Caritas, Justice and Peace as integral to their Catholic faith to participate in shaping the agenda of the Archdiocesan Commission for Caritas, Justice & Peace over the next two years. All welcome. Details and registration at https://bit.ly/justiceandpeaceevent

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

A Family Afternoon at the Gillis Centre will take place on Saturday 25 June, 2.00pm-5.00pmat the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. It will include separate sessions for adults and children, focusing on The Eucharist: Source of Family Love, family prayer time in St Margaret’s Chapel and family games. This event coincides with the 10th World Meeting of Families taking place in Rome. Details and registration at https://bit.ly/ArchEventbrite

PVG Volunteers Needed for Family Afternoon

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

Special Collection Today - Day for Life

Today, Sunday 12th June, we will have a special collection for the Day for Life which will be used to help protect and care for our families and friends as they near the end of life. The collection supports quality palliative care to provide dignity to the dying while valuing life to its natural end, as well as organisations working to protect the disabled from changes in the law.

Come and Sing

Would you like to sing Mozart’s Coronation Mass in beautiful St Cuthbert’s Parish Church, Edinburgh? The Soko Fund http://www.thesokofund.org is organising an event to raise money for women’s education in Malawi. This event will take place on Saturday 24th September 2022. Singers of every level and experience are welcome. Book your place on https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/come-sing-mozart-coronation-mass-music-for-malawi-tickets-209954929847

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

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

Questions? Contact Susan Longhurst, Course Lead, susan.longhurst@stmarys.ac.uk 07773 689535.

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

Relics of St. Bernadette to Visit Carfin Grotto

Carfin Grotto will host the relics of St Bernadette from 24th September until 2nd October 2022, the only Scottish venue to receive the relics. This will coincide with the centenary of the Grotto on 2nd October. For more information or to plan a visit to the grotto this summer, visit https://www.carfingrotto.org/

Carfin Grotto, situated in the Parish of St Francis Xavier's in the village of Carfin, near Motherwell in North Lanarkshire, is Scotland's National Shrine to Our Lady of Lourdes. The grotto is open 365 day a year, with Daily Masses, Confession, and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament.

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/

Blairs Museum Exhibition: Stations of the Cross Engravings

Engravings of the Stations of the Cross by Czechoslovakian engraver Alois Petrak, from paintings by Joseph Ritter von Fuhrich, is now on display at the Blairs Museum, Blairs, South Deeside Road, Aberdeen, AB12 5YQ. Blairs Museum is housed in part of the former national junior seminary and offers a unique insight into Scotland’s Catholic history and heritage with spectacular collections spanning more than 500 years. More information available from Crux news at https://bit.ly/Crux-Blairs The museum is open Saturdays between April and the end of September 10am-4pm, no appointment necessary. For directions and further details, visit https://www.schct.org.uk/visit/

Mission House 2023: A Year of Formation, Adventure and Fellowship

Craig Lodge's new Mission House offers a nine-month programme, for anyone between the ages of 18-30, that sets out to form spirit-filled evangelizers for the renewal of the Church. Apply online and watch the trailer for Mission House at https://www.craiglodge.org/ministries/mission-house

Living and working together missionaries encourage one another on the path to holiness, and are sent out from the mission house to the streets, high schools, parishes and wherever the Lord calls.

Read the newsletter for 12th June (pdf)

Solemnity of Pentecost - Year C

Queen’s Jubilee Celebration

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

First Holy Communions

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

Young Adults Group – This Tuesday at 7pm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Legion of Mary – Students & Professionals Group

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

Parish Volunteers – Online Safeguarding Training in June

Safeguarding Training currently only needs to be done by volunteers who are in a regulated role requiring a Protecting Vulnerable Group form. Induction Part 1 must be completed before Induction Part 2 is done. (Induction Part 2 should be completed approx. 18 months after Induction Part 1 has been done). Both Part 1 and Part 2 are approximately 90 minutes each. Part 1: Safeguarding Induction Training online

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

Join the Cathedral Flower Arranging Team!

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

Green Foliage Needed for Cathedral Flower Arrangements

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

Cathedral Cleaning Volunteers Needed

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

2022 Marriage Preparation Course 27th August

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

Join us for the Queen’s Jubilee!

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

Sacred Heart Novena after 6pm Masses this Month

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

Friday Coffee for Alzheimer’s Society

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

Vocations Mass on Monday, 6 June at Sacred Heart

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

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

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

Archdiocesan St Vincent de Paul Mass on Friday, 24 June

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

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

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

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

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

PVG Volunteers Needed for Family Afternoon

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

Free Mobility Services Available from St. James Quarter Car Park

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

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

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

Next Weekend Special Collection - Day for Life

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

Comings and Goings…

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

Read the newsletter for 5th June (pdf)

Seventh Sunday Of Easter – Year C

First Holy Communions Next Saturday at 12 noon

No 10:00am Mass, No Adoration

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

Queen’s Jubilee Celebration – Next Sunday!

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

Friends of the Cathedral – Join Today!

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

Thank You for Supporting the Request Organ Recital!

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

Save the Dates! Schola Recital and Festival Mass

Monday, 15th August — Schola Recital

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

Sunday, 21st August — Festival Mass

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

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

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

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

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

Join the Cathedral Flower Arranging Team!

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

Green Foliage Needed for Cathedral Flower Arrangements

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

First Saturday Devotions

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

Cathedral Cleaning Volunteers Needed

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

2022 Marriage Preparation Course 27th August

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

Franciscan Missionary Sisters for Africa Appeal Today

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

First Holy Communion Mass Next Saturday 12:00pm

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

Queen’s Jubilee Celebration Next Sunday

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

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

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

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

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

PVG Volunteers Needed for Family Afternoon

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

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

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

Joiner, Plumber, Painter or Electrician?

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

Venerable Margaret Sinclair: Monthly Mass to Pray for Canonisation

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

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

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

The Universe Catholic Weekly offers FREE 4-week trial

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

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

Scottish Pilgrimage to St. Andrews

Great scenery from coastal to moorland, with opportunity for reflection or prayer. To get started try the mini-pilgrimage to Rosslyn Chapel 13 km south of Edinburgh. Or feeling more adventurous pick up the St Margaret’s Way Challenge, all the way in easy stages from here in Edinburgh to St Andrews and the great ruined cathedral, built in the honour of Scotland’s patron saint, overlooking the North Sea. All details, contact information and help from http://www.thewayofstandrews.com/

Book a Prayerful Summer Retreat at Pluscarden Abbey

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

Gifts for First Holy Communion

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

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

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

Read the newsletter for 29th May (pdf)

Sixth Sunday Of Easter – Year C

This Thursday is a Holy Day of Obligation

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

Pentecost Novena Prayer

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

Lord Jesus Christ

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

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

and aspire only to the things that are eternal,

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

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

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

all the obstacles that encounter in life,

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

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

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

and may dread in any way to displease Him.

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

Congratulations! Seminarians Peter and Paul Receive Ministry of Acolyte

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cathedral Cleaning Volunteers Needed!

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

First Saturday Devotions

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

Parish Volunteers – Online Safeguarding Training, Friday 20th May

Safeguarding Training currently only needs to be done by volunteers who are in a regulated role requiring a Protecting Vulnerable Group form. Induction Part 1 must be completed before Induction Part 2 is done. (Induction Part 2 should be completed approx. 18 months after Induction Part 1 has been done). Both Part 1 and Part 2 are approximately 90 minutes each. Part 1: Safeguarding Induction Training, Friday 20th May at 7:00pm with Margaret Andow. To register, email margaret_andow@outlook.com, providing details of your name, parish and role.

Free Mobility Services Available from St. James Quarter Car Park

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

2022 Marriage Preparation Course 27th August

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

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

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

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

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

Franciscan Missionary Sisters for Africa Appeal Next Sunday

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

CTS Bookrack and The Scottish Catholic

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PVG Volunteers Needed for Family Afternoon

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

Video: Open Evening for MA Theology Course

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

Gifts for First Holy Communion and Confirmation

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

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

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

Read the newsletter for 22nd May (pdf)