Sixth Sunday of Easter – Year A

This Thursday is the Solemnity of the Ascension

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

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

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

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

• An introductory organ lesson with Tom Wilkinson

• Autographed Sir James MacMillan concert poster

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

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

Window Appeal 2023 – Huge Thank You!

Dear Friends,

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

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

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

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

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

Confirmations at 9:00am Mass Next Sunday

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

Summer Volunteers Needed! Cathedral Cleaning and Flower Arranging

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

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

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

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

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

Catenians Meeting This Wednesday at 7.45 p.m.

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a meeting thisWednesday, 17th May, at 7.45 p.m. in 63 York Place. The Association is an international body of Catholic laymen who meet once a month and offer friendship and support to Catholic men at all stages of their lives. For more information contact John Russell at 01555 728032 or membership@thecatenians.com

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon & Book Club

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

2023 Marriage Preparation Course on Saturday

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

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

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

First Holy Communion & Confirmation Gifts

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

Holy Day of Obligation on Thursday, 6pm Mass

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

Big Thank You for Coronation Garden Party

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

Rosary After Weekday Masses, Adoration & Confession Wednesdays

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

Ravelston Lenten Sponsored Run

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

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

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

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

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

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

St Margaret’s Pilgrimage to Dunfermline – 18th June

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

Corpus Christi Procession in Falkirk - 11th June

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

Pentecost Novena Prayer

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

Lord Jesus Christ

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

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

and aspire only to the things that are eternal,

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

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

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

all the obstacles that encounter in life,

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

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

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

and may dread in any way to displease Him.

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

Read the newsletter for 14th May (pdf)

The Fifth Sunday of Easter – Year A

King’s Coronation Celebration Today

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

… and a Delicious Parish Bake Sale!

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

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

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

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

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

Cathedral Holy Hours with Rosary in May on Wednesday Evenings

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

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

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

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

Save the Date: Coronation Composer Concert with Schola Cantorum

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

Volunteers Needed! Help with Cathedral Cleaning and Flower Arranging

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

Cathedral Fabric Update from Alice

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a meeting on Wednesday, 17th May, at 7.45 p.m. in 63 York Place. The Association is an international body of Catholic laymen who meet once a month and offer friendship and support to Catholic men at all stages of their lives. For more information contact John Russell at 01555 728032 or membership@thecatenians.com

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon & Cinema Outing

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

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

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

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

St Pauls Bookshop: First Communion & Confirmation Gifts

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

2023 Marriage Preparation Courses

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

Rosary After Weekday Masses, Adoration & Confession Wednesdays

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

Ministry Day at Ravelston Next Saturday

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

Called & Gifted Workshop on Saturday 20th May

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Young Adults Pilgrimage with the Carmelites for World Youth Day

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

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

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

Read the newsletter for 7th May (pdf)

Fourth Sunday Of Easter – Year A

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

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

Young Adults Events in May, June and August

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

Schola Cantorum Fundraising Concert Friday, 19 May

for Support of Cathedral Music

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

Organ Recital Thank You!

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

Holy Hours with Rosary in May on Wednesday Evenings

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

Volunteers Needed: Help with Cathedral Cleaning and Flower-Arranging

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

Youth Group Returns Next Sunday, Day Trip Planned for June

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

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

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a meeting on Wednesday, 17th May, at 7.00 p.m. in 63 York Place. The Association is an international body of Catholic laymen who meet once a month and offer friendship and support to Catholic men at all stages of their lives. For more information contact John Russell at 01555 728032 or membership@thecatenians.com

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

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

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon

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

St Pauls Bookshop: First Communion Gifts & Scottish Saints Prayers

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

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

First Saturday Devotions

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

Wednesday 5:00pm Adoration and Confessions in May

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

Coronation Party Next Sunday: Tickets on Sale, Volunteers Needed

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

St. Andrew Talk Cancelled for 1st May

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

Ministry Day at Ravelston on Saturday, 13th May

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

Crux Magazines on Sale Today at Ravelston!

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

World Day of Prayer for Vocations: Special Collection for Seminarians

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

Called & Gifted Workshop: Discover Your Unique Purpose in Life

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

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

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

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

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

Mass in May for Married & Engaged Couples

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

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

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

Are You Looking for a Job? LINKnet Can Help

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

Read the newsletter for 30th April (pdf)

Third Sunday of Easter – Year A

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

The Young Adults Group final talk in our series on Christ’s Prayerbook will be with Fr. Ross Campbell on Tuesday. Join us in 63 York Place for tea and coffee at 7pm, the talk will begin at 7.30pm and will be followed by Night Prayer and Confessions in the Cathedral, before a time to discuss in the pub.

Upcoming Events for Young Adults

 Sponsored Mountain Walk Next Saturday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Marian Holy Hours in May on Wednesday Evenings

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

Easter Knits Sales Thank You!

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

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

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

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

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

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon and More!

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

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

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

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

Schola Cantorum Fundraising Concert Friday, 19 May

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

St Pauls Bookshop: First Communion Gifts & New Cathedral Notecards

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

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

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

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

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

Procession and May Crownings at Ravelston Next Sunday

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

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

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

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

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

World Day of Prayer for Vocations Next Sunday

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

Called & Gifted Workshop: Discover Your Unique Purpose in Life

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

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

Is God calling you to serve the Church as a religious Sister? Join other young Catholic women on Sunday, 30 April, 4-7pm at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street, EH9 1SN to explore God's will as we chat in monthly get-togethers in Edinburgh. The meetings are led by Sr Mirjam Hugens, FSO, director for religious vocations in the Archdiocese. Contact Sr. Mirjam at religiousvocations@staned.org.uk

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

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

Mass in May for Married & Engaged Couples

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

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

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

Lourdes Pilgrimage in July

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

Read the newsletter for 23rd April (pdf)

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

Spring Issue of Cathedral's Crux Magazine on Sale Today

Pick up your copy of the Spring issue of Crux magazine today. At only £5, with all proceeds benefitting the Cathedral, enjoy exciting articles and features written by Fr. Patrick, Fr. Nick Welsh, our seminarians Paul Henderson and Peter Shankland, as well as an exclusive interview with our organist Tom Wilkinson and a special article on our new St Pauls Bookshop! Crux is a must-read over the Easter season for you and your family and the perfect keepsake for Cathedral visitors. Crux is the new magazine for all Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral, who receive this magazine straight their door. Join Friends here

Feast of Divine Mercy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fire Marshal Training Certificates

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Young Adults Sponsored Mountain Walk, Saturday 29th April

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

Youth Group Upcoming Events

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

No 10am Mass This Week

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

Save the Date: Coronation Lunch Party at Ravelston

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

Called & Gifted Workshop: Discover Your Unique Purpose in Life

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

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

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a meeting on Wednesday, 19th April, at 7.00 p.m. in 63 York Place. Informal chat to follow in a local pub. Join us! The Association is an international body of Catholic laymen who meet once a month and offer friendship and support to Catholic men at all stages of their lives. For information 01555 728032 or membership@thecatenians.com

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

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

Safeguarding Training Induction Part 1

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

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

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

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

Is God calling you to serve the Church as a religious Sister? Join other young Catholic women on Sunday, 30 April, 4-7pm at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street, EH9 1SN to explore God's will as we chat in monthly get-togethers in Edinburgh. The meetings are led by Sr Mirjam Hugens, FSO, director for religious vocations in the Archdiocese. Share and discuss in a relaxed environment and enjoy refreshments. The series continues on the last Sunday of each month. Contact Sr. Mirjam for more information at religiousvocations@staned.org.uk. Watch Sr. Mirjam discuss seeking God’s will in discerning your vocation in a short video, “What is God’s Plan for You?” at https://bit.ly/GodsCallforYou

Multilingual Welfare Workshops for EU Migrants

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

Standing Strong 2023: Meet Persecuted Christians & Hear Their Stories

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

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

 The Scottish Catholic Free E-Newsletter

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

Read the newsletter for 16th April (pdf)

Easter Sunday oftThe Resurrection of The Lord – Year A

Dear Friends,

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

Cathedral Lenten Appeal

Dear Friends, This is the final week of our special appeal to repair and replace the windows in the Cathedral. Thank you so much for your outstanding generosity! Remember that everything that you give will be doubled by our anonymous benefactor.

If you are a UK taxpayer, you should be eligible to Gift Aid any amounts that you give to this appeal. A supply of Gift Aid envelopes are available at the back of the church. Please use the white Gift Aid envelopes that we have put out at the back of the church to ensure that we can claim Gift Aid on your donation.

Easter Vigil Congratulations

Congratulations to all who received the sacraments of Baptism, First Holy Communion or Confirmation at the Easter Vigil: 4 people were Baptized and received into the Church: Ashley, Steven, Felix and Cizel; we received a further 9 people into the Church who received Holy Communion and were Confirmed: Phil, Jane, Marcelina, David, Jane, Craig, John, Simon, Andrew, and an additional 13 people were Confirmed: Matthew, Briccio, Sofia, Harriet, Eladio, Jack, Alicja, Jacek, Emilie, Kelvin, William, Shanida and Oskar. Whilst this is the end of a long journey for each of them, I know that you will make them very welcome as they make this step and I ask you to keep them all in your prayers as they participate in our parish community.

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

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

Feast of Divine Mercy: Sunday, 16 April

Join us for our celebration for Feast of Divine Mercy, in English and Polish, here in the Cathedral at 3:00pm on Sunday, 16th April, Divine Mercy Sunday, including a Holy Hour with exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and opportunity for Confession.

Organ Recital on Sunday 23 April

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

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

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

Thank You to Fire Marshal Training Participants

Once again a huge thank you to those of you who did the Fire Marshal training. The certificates are now with Father Puton or at the back of the Cathedral in a folder for collection. If you should have one and it is not there or your name has been misspelled and you would like a new one issued correctly, please let me know. Alice (complexmanager@stmaryscathedral.co.uk). In due course, we will be following up this training with an evacuation practice at the end of a Mass so we can check that our procedures will operate safely when the Cathedral is occupied.

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon

The Over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon will be on Tuesday 11 April at Coffee Saints, 2.30pm - 4pm. Come along and join us!

Young Adults Group Upcoming Events

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

Young Adults Sponsored Mountain Walk

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

Youth Group Upcoming Events

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

Toilets

Please note that toilet facilities are available between Coffee Saints and the Bookshop during their opening hours (0900-1700). Toilets are available, outside those times, in John Lewis and within the St James Quarter. Please do not enter the sacristy during Mass.

2023/24 Gift Aid Envelopes Ready for Collection

The new 2023/24 Gift Aid envelope sets are now available for collection from the back of the church from this weekend. With the new tax year approaching, this is also an ideal time to consider registering for Gift Aid with the parish if you have not already done so. For more information, please contact our finance officer, Caroline Reid, at finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk Thank you!

No 10am Mass or Confessions This Week

While some of the Cathedral priests are away, the 10am Mass is cancelled and will resume on Monday 17th April, and there will be no Confessions this week.

Sunday Fun Run Spectacular Finish!

Thank you to all those who joined Fergus on his weekly run from St Andrew’s Church to the Cathedral during Lent and thank you, too, to all those who sponsored the runners and donated to this fundraiser for the Cathedral Windows and SCIAF. So far, a total of just over £900.00 has been raised! If you would still like to contribute, or if you sponsored the runners and have not yet paid the amount pledged, please either speak to Fergus or Caroline after Mass. Alternatively, if you would like to make a donation via BACS, please email Caroline in the parish office at finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk who will provide you with details on her return from annual leave on 17th April 2023.

Save the Date: Coronation Lunch Party at Ravelston

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

Called & Gifted Workshop: Discover Your Unique Purpose in Life

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

Save the Date: ‘ReThink Abortion’ Interactive Training Day

Pro-life speaker Isabel Vaughan Spruce and her team from March for Life will lead ‘ReThink Abortion,’ an interactive training day on how to speak about abortion. The event will be Saturday, 13 May, 10am-5pm in the Catholic Chaplaincy of the University of Glasgow. Mass will be celebrated at 9.00am before the day starts and lunch will be provided along with refreshments throughout the day. General Admission, £25.00. Register at https://www.marchforlife.co.uk/rethink-abortion/ Attendees must be over 18.

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

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men, married or single, to a meeting on Wednesday, 19th April, at 7.00 p.m. in 63 York Place. Informal chat to follow in a local pub. Join us! The Association is an international body of Catholic laymen who meet once a month and offer friendship and support to Catholic men at all stages of their lives. For information 01555 728032 or membership@thecatenians.com

Christian Meditation (in person and online)

Lent is a time to grow in prayer, and Easter a time to rejoice in the Lord. Experience how Christian Meditation with others leads you on this journey. We meditate in person at 63 York Place, Edinburgh EH3 5AD, 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. Schedule is at: https://www.meetup.com/Christian-Meditation-Group/events/ Contact mobile: 0771 777 2614 Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1cuO5QJ

Safeguarding Training Induction Part 1

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

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

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

Read the newsletter for the 9th April (pdf)

Palm Sunday of the Passion of The Lord – Year A

Cathedral Lenten Appeal

Dear Friends, Your generous response last week for the fifth week of our Lenten Appeal to repair the windows in the Cathedral raised an astounding £1,081.93 an amount which, as you know, will be doubled by a very generous benefactor. We are continuing our appeal for the next two weeks.

Remember if you are a UK taxpayer, you should be eligible to Gift Aid any amounts that you give to this appeal. A supply of Gift Aid envelopes are available at the back of the church. Please use the white Gift Aid envelopes that we have put out at the back of the church to ensure that we can claim Gift Aid on your donation.

Holy Week and Easter

This is the most sacred week of the year. While Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday are not holy days of obligation, all are encouraged to attend these special liturgies in preparation for Easter. His Grace, the Archbishop, will celebrate the Chrism Mass on Tuesday at 7:00pm with priests from throughout the Archdiocese. On Holy Thursday, His Grace will celebrate the Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 7:00pm followed by procession with the Blessed Sacrament to the Altar of Repose, with watching until 11:00pm. Night Prayer will be celebrated at 11.00 p.m.

Good Friday is a day of fasting and abstinence which means that all Catholics are obliged to abstain from meat, and all adults between 16 and 65 are obliged to fast. The Passion Liturgy will be held at 3:00pm and for those who cannot attend, Stations of the Cross will be prayed at 7:00pm. Remember that it is a Precept of the Church that all Catholics should go to confession at least once a year, at Easter or thereabouts.

There will be additional priests available this week for Confessions Monday-Wednesday after the 12:45pm Mass and on Good Friday after the 3:00pm Passion Liturgy. His Grace will celebrate the Easter Vigil Mass at 8:00pm on Holy Saturday and 34 catechumens and candidates will be received into Full Communion with the Catholic Church at this Mass. Easter Sunday Masses will be celebrated at the usual Sunday Mass times. Blessed Holy Week!

Sacrament of Confession

Times for Confession during Holy Week are printed on the front of this Newsletter and additional priests will be available at those times. The Archdiocese has put together a helpful guide about returning to Confession. Watch it at bit.ly/archconfessionvideo. Another resource is the `How to Go to Confession` sheets by the Confessionals, also available on this website.

Easter Postcards

We really do have Postcards this week (!) to invite those who are away from the Church or who haven't attended in a while to come to church during Holy Week and Easter. Please pick up a postcard at the back of church to share with someone who may not have been to Mass in a while and who may appreciate an invite to Mass during this most important time in the Church year!

Easter Knitted Goods on Sale Today

Our wonderful Joanna Kopystynska has spent the last 3 months knitting Easter-themed gift items!! They will be on sale after all Masses today. All the profits from sales are generously donated to the parish. See also at https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/KathedralKnits Support the parish and give a lovely Easter gift!

Digital Copies of the Newsletter

If you use ‘The Catholic App’, you can access the newsletter digitally. Find St Mary’s Cathedral or St Andrew’s, Ravelston, go to the news section and click on this weeks’ newsletter. You can also sign up for the newsletter to be e-mailed direct to your inbox via the Cathedral website.

Parish Retreat 22-24 September 2023

St Mary’s Monastery, Kinnoull

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

Young Adults Group Upcoming Events

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

Young Adults Sponsored Mountain Walk

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

Youth Group Upcoming Events

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

Toilets

Please note that toilet facilities are available between Coffee Saints and the Bookshop during their opening hours (0900-1700). Toilets are available, outside those times, in John Lewis and within the St James Quarter. Please do not enter the sacristy during Mass.

2023/24 Gift Aid Envelopes Ready for Collection

The new 2023/24 Gift Aid envelope sets are now available for collection from the back of the church from this weekend. With the new tax year approaching, this is also an ideal time to consider registering for Gift Aid with the parish if you have not already done so. For more information, please contact our finance officer, Caroline Reid, at finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk Thank you!

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon and Book Group

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

Please note last week’s date had an error and the next Welcome book group is on Thursday 20th April, 2.30 - 4pm at McDonald Road Library.

Wednesdays: Sacrament of Confession, Adoration, Mass & Stations

Continue your preparations for Easter with the final Wednesday evening of Eucharistic Adoration from 5:00pm - the Sacrament of Confession is also from 5:00pm-5:45pm. Then Mass is celebrated at 6:00pm and immediately following we pray the Stations of the Cross, 6:30pm-7:00pm. A beautiful chance to prepare and walk with Christ in Holy Week.

Bacon Roll Fundraiser for SCIAF last Sunday

I am very pleased to tell you that the Bacon Roll Fundraiser for SCIAF held after mass last Sunday raised a total of £389.44! This amount has now been sent to SCIAF, the official relief and development agency of the Catholic Church in Scotland. Thank you for your support!

Sunday Fun Run – Final Week 2nd April 2023

We have completed the first 5 runs / walks. The last one is today (more to follow) Many thanks to all who have participated .We are now looking to collect sponsorships monies. There is a form at back of the Church to enable us to claim Gift Aid .Could you give the form and money to Fergus or Caroline Reid on Sunday (or as soon as possible). You can also donate by BACS – please contact Caroline Reid at finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk for details. Many thanks for your support.

Called & Gifted Workshop: Discover Your Unique Purpose in Life

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

Archdiocesan Stations of the Cross

Start Holy Week by joining people across the Archdiocese for Stations of the Cross. It takes place on Zoom on Monday 3 April at 7:45pm and is a chance to pray for all pro-life intentions. Includes a reflection from Archbishop Leo. Register at https://bit.ly/stations2023

Christian Meditation (in person and online)

Lent is a time to grow in prayer, and Easter a time to rejoice in the Lord. Experience how Christian Meditation with others leads you on this journey. We meditate in person at 63 York Place, Edinburgh EH3 5AD, 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, and you can join from anywhere. The up-to-date schedule is here: https://www.meetup.com/Christian-Meditation-Group/events/ Contact info - mobile: 0771 777 2614 Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1cuO5QJ

Neocathecumenal Vigil Mass

On Holy Saturday, the 8th of April, at 11:00pm, the Neocathecumenal community from the Cathedral will celebrate Easter Vigil in the Church Hall of St John the Baptist. We will celebrate the Easter Vigil like the Early Church used to do - all through the night until the rising star appears in the sky - with songs and hymns. All are welcome. For more information, please contact Alexander Mileto at 07424938885

Address: St John the Baptist, Church Hall, 37 St Ninian's Road, Edinburgh EH12 8AL

Safeguarding Training Induction Part 1

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

Online Training: Duration approx 90 mins, the available dates are:-

• Wednesday 12th April at 7pm

• Thursday 11th May at 7pm

To register, please email margaret.andow@staned.org.uk providing details of your name, parish and role.

Face-to-face Training: Duration approx 90 mins, venue Gillis Centre, Edinburgh, the available dates are:-

• Friday 28th April at 1pm

To register, please email elaine.anderson@staned.org.uk providing details of your name, parish and role.

Read the newsletter for 2nd April (pdf)

Fifth Sunday of Lent – Year A

Cathedral Lenten Appeal

Dear Friends, Your generous response last week for the fourth week of our Lenten Appeal to repair the windows in the Cathedral raised an astounding £1,723.23 an amount which, as you know, will be doubled by a very generous benefactor. The current total for our Lenten Appeal is £6,708. So, with the help of our benefactor, we are even closer to our goal of £14,000 for the cost of the repairs. Thank you for your continued generosity!

Remember if you are a UK taxpayer, you should be eligible to Gift Aid any amounts that you give to this appeal. A supply of Gift Aid envelopes are available at the back of the church. Please use the white Gift Aid envelopes that we have put out at the back of the church to ensure that we can claim Gift Aid on your donation.

Parish Retreat 22-24 September 2023

St Mary’s Monastery, Kinnoull

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

Complex Manager Report

A massive thank you to all those who kindly gave up time to take part in our statutory Fire Marshal training. Approximately 50 people answered the call and I am most grateful to them for their help in making the Cathedral a safer and more compliant place. The key lesson I took away from the training is that should the alarm go off, we should not assume it is a false alarm and wait for others to move, but should take the lead and encourage movement towards the exits. It is everyone’s responsibility to make the Cathedral a safer place. Thank you again and let us pray that we never have to carry out an evacuation for real. If you did take part, I will be in touch in due course with your certificate! - Alice

Digital Copies of the Newsletter

If you use ‘The Catholic App’, you can access the newsletter digitally. Find St Mary’s Cathedral or St Andrew’s, Ravelston, go to the news section and click on this weeks’ newsletter. You can also sign up for the newsletter to be e-mailed direct to your inbox via the Cathedral website.

Young Adults Group Talk on ‘Christ’s Prayerbook’ Tuesday at 7pm

Join us this Tuesday for our Young Adults talks on ‘Christ’s Prayerbook.’ Fr. John Deighan will speak on Psalm 130, fifth psalm in our series. In this Psalm, we hear a cry of mercy followed by a model expression of trust in God. All young adults aged 18-35 are welcome to join us in 63 York Place. We start at 7pm with teas and coffees, the talk will begin at 7.30pm and will be followed by Night Prayer and Confessions in the Cathedral, before a time to discuss in the pub.

Young Adults Sponsored Mountain Walk

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

Youth Group on Sunday night!

The Youth Group meets this evening from 6pm to 7.30pm in the Parish Rooms at St Andrew’s, Ravelston. All young people from P3 are welcome! We will have games, and activities to learn more about the faith! The registration fee is just £1 on the first night for new registrations. Please pick up a registration form that can be found in the Cathedral or St Andrew’s or contact Fr Robert for more information.

2023/24 Gift Aid Envelopes Ready for Collection

The new 2023/24 Gift Aid envelope sets are now available for collection from the back of the church from this weekend. With the new tax year approaching, this is also an ideal time to consider registering for Gift Aid with the parish if you have not already done so. For more information, please contact our finance officer, Caroline Reid, at finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk Thank you!

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon, Cinema Trip Planned

The Over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon will be on Tuesday 28 March at Coffee Saints, 2.30pm - 4pm.

Wednesday 29th, cinema trip to see Allelujah, programme starts at 2pm, purchasing a ticket online is the cheapest way to see the film. If you are unable to access the online facility it can be done in the foyer ten minutes before the start time of the programme. Meet upstairs in Omni centre. Thursday 30th April, The Welcome Book Club meet at McDonald Road Library. Current read is The Midnight Library by Matt Haig.

SCIAF Lenten Wee Box Appeal for Hungry in Zambia

SCIAF’s Wee Box appeal this Lent is for communities in Zambia where families are suffering from devastating hunger. Your donations help provide families training and tools to grow food. Pick up a Wee Box today at the back of church, or donate at https://www.sciaf.org.uk/.

Easter Postcards

Each parish has received a delivery of postcards from the Archdiocese to invite those who are away from the Church or who haven't attended in a while to come to church during Holy Week and Easter. Please pick up a postcard at the back of church to share with someone who may not have been to Mass in a while and who may appreciate an invite to Mass during this most important time in the Church year!

Easter Knitted Goods to Support Parish on Sale on Palm Sunday

Easter-themed knitted gift items will be on sale on Palm Sunday at the Cathedral. All the profits from sales are generously donated to the parish by Joanna Kopystynska. Knitted items are also available online at https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/KathedralKnits Support the parish and give a lovely Easter gift!

 Holy Week at the Cathedral

Please refer to the posters at the entrance of the Cathedral or the Cathedral website for the times of all masses during Holy Week here

Wednesdays: Sacrament of Confession, Adoration, Mass & Stations

Wednesday evenings in Lent at St. Andrew’s are a great way to prepare for Easter: Eucharistic Adoration begins at 5:00pm and the Sacrament of Confession is available 5:00pm-5:45pm. Then Mass is celebrated at 6:00pm and immediately following we pray the Stations of the Cross, 6:30pm-7:00pm. Don’t miss this spiritual opportunity as we draw nearer to Holy Week and Easter.

Bacon Roll Fundraiser for SCIAF Today

Come and enjoy a late brunch, stay or take away, in the Parish Rooms at Ravelston after 10:30am Mass at our Bacon Roll Fundraiser for SCIAF, the official relief and development agency of the Catholic Church in Scotland. SCIAF helps people in the world's poorest places end poverty and recover from disasters. Any donation on the day will be appreciated! Vegetarian option available.

Fundraising Run (or walk!) Sundays in Lent

Thanks to all who have participated in our run/walk so far! We have now successfully completed 3 runs / walks! That’s halfway! It has been great fun and not too energetic, so as the weather improves, think about joining in. At 11:30am today and every Sunday in Lent we will run/walk from St. Andrew’s, Ravelston to St. Mary’s Cathedral and return (approx. 5 km). Funds raised are being donated to the Cathedral stained-glass window repair appeal & SCIAF. Please consider sponsoring us. Speak to Fergus or Caroline to make donation and set up Gift Aid, or contact Fergus.Christie@bckm.co.uk

Holy Week at Ravelston

Please refer to the posters at the entrance of the Church or the Cathedral website for the times of all masses during Holy Week here

Talk by Archbishop Leo: Palm Sunday & the Passion in Matthew’s Gospel

Archbishop Leo hosts a talk about Palm Sunday and the Passion in St. Matthew’s Gospel on Monday 27 March at 7:30pm. It is for those who want to better understand the background to the liturgy and prepare for the day. Register for this Zoom talk at https://bit.ly/palmsundaytalk

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

Thinking about a vocation to the religious life? Join other young Catholic women to chat and explore God's will in five monthly get-togethers in Edinburgh. Led by Sr Mirjam Hugens FSO, the next one takes place today, Sunday 26 March, 4-7pm at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street. To register or find out more, please email religiousvocations@staned.org.uk

Called & Gifted Workshop: Discover Your Unique Purpose in Life

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

Safeguarding Training Induction Part 1

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

Online Training: Duration approx 90 mins, the available dates are:-

• Wednesday 12th April at 7pm

• Thursday 11th May at 7pm

To register, please email margaret.andow@staned.org.uk providing details of your name, parish and role.

Face-to-face Training: Duration approx 90 mins, venue Gillis Centre, Edinburgh, the available dates are:-

• Monday 27th March at 7pm (NOT at Gillis - see below)

• Friday 31st March at 1pm

• Friday 28th April at 1pm

To register, please email elaine.anderson@staned.org.uk providing details of your name, parish and role.

Face-to-face Training: Duration approx 90 mins, venue St Cuthbert's Church, 104 Slateford Road, Edinburgh, EH14 1PT.

• Monday 27th March at 7pm

To register, please email scott.mackenzie@staned.org.uk providing details of your name, parish and role.

Read the newsletter for 26th March (pdf)

Fourth Sunday of Lent – Year A

Cathedral Lenten Appeal 

Dear Friends, Your generous response last week for the third week of our Lenten Appeal to repair the windows in the Cathedral raised a remarkable…£1,126.03 …an amount which, as you know, will be doubled by a very generous benefactor. The current total for our Lenten Appeal is £4,984.77. So with the help of our benefactor, we are more than halfway to our goal of £14,000 for the cost of the repairs. Thank you so much!

Remember if you are a UK taxpayer, you should be eligible to Gift Aid any amounts that you give to this appeal. A supply of Gift Aid envelopes are available at the back of the church.

Sacrament of Confession in Lent

Please take the time in Lent to go to Confession to help you prepare for Easter. Remember that it is a Precept of the Church that all Catholics should go to Confession at least once a year, at Easter or thereabouts. Priests are available to hear confessions Monday-Friday after the 12:45pm Mass and Saturdays 10:30am-12Noon and 5:00-5:45pm.

Friday Eucharistic Adoration, Confession and Stations of the Cross

Every Friday during Lent, Eucharistic Adoration will be held in the Cathedral from 10:30am-12:30pm, followed by the 12:45pm daily Mass and afterwards we will pray the Stations of the Cross. The sacrament of Confession is also available after the 12:45 pm Mass.

Young Adults Group Talk on ‘Christ’s Prayerbook’ Tuesday at 7pm

Join us this Tuesday for our Young Adults talks on ‘Christ’s Prayerbook.’ Fr. Kevin Douglas will speak on Psalm 102, fourth psalm in our series. In this Psalm, we hear the cry of one who is afflicted, yet has great confidence in the Lord’s saving help! All young adults aged 18-35 are welcome to join us in 63 York Place. We start at 7pm with teas and coffees, the talk will begin at 7.30pm and will be followed by Night Prayer and Confessions in the Cathedral, before a time to discuss in the pub.

Youth Group on Sunday night!

The Youth Group meets this evening from 6pm to 7.30pm in the Parish Rooms at St Andrew’s, Ravelston. All young people from P3 are welcome! We will have games, and activities to learn more about the faith! The registration fee is just £1 on the first night for new registrations. Please pick up a registration form that can be found in the Cathedral or St Andrew’s or contact Fr Robert for more information.

2023/24 Gift Aid Envelopes Ready for Collection

The new 2023/24 Gift Aid envelope sets are now available for collection from the back of the church from this weekend. With the new tax year approaching, this is also an ideal time to consider registering for Gift Aid with the parish if you have not already done so. For more information, please contact our finance officer, Caroline Reid, at finance@stmaryscathedral.co.uk Thank you!

Fire Marshal Training This Week

Thank you to all of you who have kindly said that you will take part in Fire Marshal training this week. I am very grateful and I look forward to seeing you in 63 York Place, either on Tuesday 21st, 9.30am-12Noon or on Wednesday 22nd, 7:00pm-9:00pm. Alice: complexmanager@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Toilet Works

Works are planned to the Ladies toilets at Coffee Saints on Monday and Tuesday (20th/21st), with possible disruption to their usage also possible on Wednesday (22nd) next week. During this period Ladies are requested to use the disabled toilet. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon, Cinema Trip Planned

The Over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon will be on Tuesday 21 March at Coffee Saints, 2.30pm - 4pm.

Advance notice of cinema trip Wednesday 29th March: Film is ‘Allelujah,’ time to be confirmed.

Children’s Bibles, Books on the Mass, Saints & More

St Pauls Bookshop has a wide selection of children’s books, from Bibles to books on prayer and the Rosary, the Mass, the sacraments, the saints, and the Church year. You can also find beautiful gifts and greeting cards for First Holy Communion. Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm (closed Mondays).

SCIAF Lenten Wee Box Appeal for Hungry in Zambia

SCIAF’s Wee Box appeal this Lent is for communities in Zambia where families are suffering from devastating hunger. Your donations help provide families training and tools to grow food. Pick up a Wee Box today at the back of church, or donate at https://www.sciaf.org.uk/

Holy Week at the Cathedral

Sunday 2nd April: Palm Sunday

6.00pm (Vigil Mass on Saturday)

9.00am, 12 Noon and 7.30pm

Polish: 10.30am and 6.00pm

Tuesday 4th April: Chrism Mass

9.00am (Polish)

10.00am

12.45pm

6.00pm (Polish): Cancelled

7.00pm: Chrism Mass

Thursday 6th April: Maundy Thursday

6.00pm (Polish): Cancelled

7.00pm: Mass of the Lord’s Supper

Friday 7th April: Good Friday

3.00pm: Passion Liturgy

5.00pm: Passion Liturgy (Polish)

7.00pm: Stations of the Cross

Saturday 8th April: Holy Saturday

Polish Food Blessing:

 12Noon, 3.00pm and 5.00pm

8.00pm: Easter Vigil Mass

Sunday 9th April: Easter Sunday

9.00am, 12 Noon and 7.30pm

Polish: 10.30am and 6:00pm

Confessions during Holy Week:

After 12.45pm Mass, Monday-Wednesday

Easter Postcards

Each parish has received a delivery of postcards from the Archdiocese to invite those who are away from the Church or who haven't attended in a while to come to church during Holy Week and Easter. Please pick up a postcard at the back of church to share with someone who may not have been to Mass in a while and who may appreciate an invite to Mass during this most important time in the Church year!

Wednesdays Sacrament of Confession, Adoration, Mass & Stations

Wednesday evenings in Lent at St. Andrew’s are a great way to prepare for Easter: Eucharistic Adoration begins at 5:00pm and the Sacrament of Confession is available 5:00pm-5:45pm. Then Mass is celebrated at 6:00pm and immediately following we pray the Stations of the Cross, 6:30pm-7:00pm. Don’t miss this spiritual opportunity as we draw nearer to Holy Week and Easter.

Easter Knitted Goods to Support Parish on Sale

Easter-themed knitted gift items will be on sale today after Mass. All the profits from sales are generously donated to the parish by Joanna Kopystynska. Knitted items are also available online at https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/KathedralKnits Support the parish and give a lovely Easter gift!

Bacon Roll Fundraiser for SCIAF on Next Sunday, 26 March Holy Week at Ravelston

Palm Sunday, 2nd April

10:30am

Tuesday, 4th April

6pm Mass cancelled

Holy Thursday, 6th April

6pm Mass cancelled

Good Friday, 7th April

3pm Passion Liturgy

Easter Sunday, 9th April

10:30am

Come and enjoy a late brunch, stay or take away, in the Parish Rooms at Ravelston after 10:30am Mass next Sunday, 26 March at our Bacon Roll Fundraiser for SCIAF, the official relief and development agency of the Catholic Church in Scotland. SCIAF helps people in the world's poorest places end poverty and recover from disasters. Any donation on the day will be appreciated! Vegetarian option available.

Fundraising Run (or walk!) Sundays in Lent

Thanks to all who have participated in our run/walk so far! We have now successfully completed 3 runs / walks! That’s halfway! It has been great fun and not too energetic, so as the weather improves, think about joining in. At 11:30am today and every Sunday in Lent we will run/walk from St. Andrew’s, Ravelston to St. Mary’s Cathedral and return (approx. 5 km). Funds raised are being donated to the Cathedral stained-glass window repair appeal & SCIAF. Please consider sponsoring us. Speak to Fergus or Caroline to make donation and set up Gift Aid, or contact Fergus.Christie@bckm.co.uk

Concluding Online Lenten Talk on Jesus in the Servant Songs of Isaiah

Join Fr Jamie McMorrin of St Margaret’s, Davidson’s Mains, and Sr Anna Marie McGuan, RSM as they host the concluding talk in their series of Lenten talks on the talks on Jesus Christ in the Servant Songs of Isaiah. The talk will be at 7:30pm, Wednesday 22 March. Videos posted after the talks at https://bit.ly/ArchYouTube

Register at bit.ly/lenttalks2023. Booklets with Isaiah readings are available near the church entrance.

Next Weekend: Encountering Jesus Retreat at St. Kentigern’s

An Encountering Jesus Retreat led by Fr Bart Parys, a Divine Word Missionary based in Ireland, will be at St Kentigern’s Church, Parkgrove Avenue, Barnton, Edinburgh during 24-26 March. It is designed as a three-day retreat, but no requirement to come to all three days if you can't make it! Come for private prayer, fellowship, an opportunity to listen to testimonies and participate in the Eucharist: Friday 24 March 7:30pm - 8:30pm; Saturday 25 March 10:00am - 3:00pm (Bring packed lunch - teas/coffees and biscuits served); Sunday 26 March 9:30am - 11:00am. No registration required.

Talk by Archbishop Leo: Palm Sunday & the Passion in Matthew’s Gospel

Archbishop Leo hosts a talk about Palm Sunday and the Passion in St. Matthew’s Gospel on Monday 27 March at 7:30pm. It is for those who want to better understand the background to the liturgy and prepare for the day. Register for this Zoom talk at https://bit.ly/palmsundaytalk

Survey on Religion in the Workplace

A new inquiry has been launched by the UK Parliament's Joint Committee on Human Rights into human rights at work and part of the inquiry is considering freedom of thought, conscience and religion, and freedom of expression in the workplace. The Catholic Union invites you to complete a brief online survey on religion in the workplace. The closing date is 20 March and the survey takes less than 2 minutes to complete. Visit https://bit.ly/RELIGIONATWORK

Responses will form the basis of its written evidence to the inquiry. The Catholic Union (www.catholicunion.org.uk) is dedicated to the defence of Catholic values in Parliament and public life.

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

Thinking about a vocation to the religious life? Join other young Catholic women to chat and explore God's will in five monthly get-togethers in Edinburgh. Led by Sr Mirjam Hugens FSO, the next one takes place on Sunday 26 March, 4-7pm at St Columba’s, 9 Upper Gray Street. To register or find out more, please email religiousvocations@staned.org.uk

Called & Gifted Workshop: Discover Your Unique Purpose in Life

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

Read the newsletter for 19th March (pdf)

Third Sunday of Lent – Year A

Cathedral Lenten Appeal

Dear Friends, Thank you again for your generous response to the second week of our Lenten Appeal to repair the windows in the Cathedral. The collection last week raised an amazing…£2,182.95…which, as you know will be doubled by a very generous benefactor. So, for the first two weeks of our Lenten Appeal our total is £3,858.74. The cost of the repairs will be £14,000. We are off to a great start, but we still have a way to go. Thank you so much!

Remember if you are a UK taxpayer, you should be eligible to Gift Aid any amounts that you give to this appeal. A supply of Gift Aid envelopes are available at the back of the church.

Sacrament of Confession in Lent

Please take the time in Lent to go to Confession to help you prepare for Easter. Our merciful and loving God forgives our sins through the Sacrament of Confession, instituted by Jesus when he told his Apostles, “If you forgive anyone's sins, they are forgiven” (John 20:23). Remember that it is a Precept of the Church that all Catholics should go to Confession at least once a year, at Easter or thereabouts. Priests are available to hear confessions Monday-Friday after the 12:45pm Mass and Saturdays 10:30am-12Noon and 5:00-5:45pm. The Archdiocese put together a helpful guide about returning to Confession last year and it is posted on YouTube: bit.ly/archconfessionvideo. ‘How to Go to Confession’ cards are available by the Confessionals or at https://bit.ly/HowtogotoConfession

For further information on the Sacrament of Confession, visit https://goodconfession.com/

Friday Eucharistic Adoration, Confession and Stations of the Cross

Every Friday during Lent, Eucharistic Adoration will be held in the Cathedral from 10:30am-12:30pm, followed by the 12:45pm daily Mass and afterwards we will pray the Stations of the Cross. The sacrament of Confession is also available after the 12:45 pm Mass.

Holy Week Mass Times

Holy Week Mass Times can be found here. 

Young Adults Group Talk on ‘Christ’s Prayerbook’ Tuesday at 7pm

As we continue our Young Adults talks on ‘Christ’s Prayerbook,’ Fr. Christopher Doig will speak on Psalm 51, one of the penitential psalms, with its familiar beginning “Have mercy on me, O God, in your faithful love, in your great tenderness wipe away my offence.” All young adults aged 18-35 are welcome to join us in 63 York Place. We start at 7pm with teas and coffees, the talk will begin at 7.30pm and will be followed by Night Prayer and Confessions in the Cathedral, before a time to discuss in the pub.

Youth Group on Sunday night!

The Youth Group meets this evening from 6pm to 7.30pm in the Parish Rooms at St Andrew’s, Ravelston. All young people from P3 are welcome! We will have games, and activities to learn more about the faith! The registration fee is just £1 on the first night for new registrations. Please pick up a registration form that can be found in the Cathedral or St Andrew’s or contact Fr Robert for more information.

Volunteers Needed for Cathedral Fire Warden Training

For Health and Safety Compliance, we are required to have 60 people who regularly attend Mass here to be trained as Fire Wardens. In our recent Fire Inspection, one of the things that was highlighted was that there must be sufficient numbers of people who are trained in fire safety procedures and so we need to enlist some of you! Please sign up to attend one of the sessions: Tuesday, 21st March, 9.30am until 12pm or Wednesday, 22nd March, 7pm-9pm, in 63 York Place. These will cover evacuation principles, active fire safety, and human behaviour in emergency situations. To register, please contact Alice at complexmanager@stmaryscathedral.co.uk or sign up on the list at the back of church.

Mother’s Day at Coffee Saints

Mother’s Day is next Sunday! Book a lovely Morning Tea at Coffee Saints for the perfect treat for your mum, including mini filled breakfast rolls, pastries, granola & yoghurt pots, fresh fruit & cake slices, tea, coffee & fruit juice. £15 per person, served 9am-11:30am. Book at https://coffee-saints.resos.com/booking

Coffee Saints is social enterprise partnership between the Cathedral and the Grassmarket Community Project. Every time you make a purchase at Coffee Saints all profits go to support the vulnerable

St. Pauls Bookshop: Stations of the Cross, Cards for Mother’s Day & Easter

Deepen your devotion to our Lord’s saving Passion and death on the cross by meditating on the Stations of the Cross. A variety of books on the Stations are available in St Pauls Bookshop including The Way of the Cross with the Book of Isaiah, In His Master’s Footsteps, The Way of the Cross with the Cure of Ars, The Way of the Cross with St. Paul, and My Wounded Hands: A Way of the Cross. Plan ahead for your spiritual reading after Easter with You Will be My Witnesses: Meditations for the Easter Season. Send a Mother’s Day card or an Easter greeting with one of the many lovely cards available in the bookshop!

Over Sixties Coffee Afternoon, Book Club 

The Over Sixties Club Coffee Afternoon will be on Tuesday 14 March at Coffee Saints, 2.30pm - 4pm.

Thursday 16 March, Book Club meet up at McDonald Road library, 2.30 till 4pm. We are reading Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart.

SCIAF Lenten Wee Box Appeal for Hungry in Zambia

SCIAF’s Wee Box appeal this Lent is for communities in Zambia where families are suffering from devastating hunger. Your donations help provide families training and tools to grow food. Pick up a Wee Box today at the back of church, or donate at https://www.sciaf.org.uk/.

Sacrament of Confession on Wednesdays in Lent 5pm-5:45pm

The Sacrament of Confession is available every Wednesday in Lent from 5:00pm-5:45pm at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. The priest will hear Confessions in the sacristy. ‘How to Go to Confession’ cards are available in the church or at https://bit.ly/HowtogotoConfession to help make a good examination of conscience. Come and receive the mercy of God who, in His great love for us, forgives our sins in this sacrament. We will have Eucharistic Adoration during that hour, as well, followed by 6:00pm Mass. Immediately after Mass, we will pray the Stations of the Cross 6:30pm-7:00pm.

Next Sunday: Easter Knitted Goods on Sale to Support Parish

Easter-themed knitted gift items will be on sale next Sunday, 19 March after Mass. All the profits from sales are generously donated to the parish by Joanna Kopystynska. Knitted items are also available online at https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/KathedralKnits Support the parish and give a lovely Easter gift!

Bacon Roll Fundraiser for SCIAF on Sunday, 26 March

Come and enjoy a late brunch, stay or take away, in the Parish Rooms at Ravelston after 10:30am Mass on Sunday, 26 March at our Bacon Roll Fundraiser for SCIAF, the official relief and development agency of the Catholic Church in Scotland. SCIAF helps people in the world's poorest places end poverty and recover from disasters. Any donation on the day will be appreciated! Vegetarian option available.

Fundraising Run (or walk!) Sundays in Lent

Join Fergus Christie for a charity run/walk at 11:30am today from St. Andrew’s, Ravelston to St. Mary’s Cathedral and return (approx. 5 km) and continuing every Sunday during Lent. Funds raised will be donated to the Cathedral stained-glass window repair appeal & SCIAF. If you don’t want to take part, please consider donating/sponsoring. Any queries please contact Fergus Christie at Fergus.Christie@bckm.co.uk

Holy Hour Tonight with Archbishop at Gillis Centre, 6:00pm

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

Join Archbishop Cushley for Eucharistic Adoration tonight, Sunday, 12 March at 6pm in St Margaret’s Chapel at the Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, to pray for “insight, courage and joy in our mission,” as part of the Synod 2023. No registration needed, just come and pray!

Mass for Vocations at St. Albert’s Chaplaincy Tomorrow

The next Archdiocesan Mass for Vocations takes place at 5:15pm tomorrow, Monday 6 March, at the St Albert’s Chaplaincy, 24 George Square, EH8 9LD, near the University of Edinburgh’s Main Library. Refreshments served after Mass. Join us! For directions, visit https://scotland.op.org/

Catenians Meeting on Wednesday at 7.00 p.m.

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

Wednesday Lenten Online Talks: Jesus in the Servant Songs of Isaiah

Discover Jesus Christ in the Servant Songs of Isaiah with a series of online talks this Lent. Videos posted after the talks at bit.ly/ArchYouTube. Fr Jamie McMorrin of St Margaret’s, Davidson’s Mains, and Sr Anna Marie McGuan, RSM host the talks at 7:30pm, Wednesday 15 March and 22 March. Register at bit.ly/lenttalks2023. Booklets with Isaiah readings are available near the church entrance.

Encountering Jesus Retreat at St. Kentigern’s – Come One Day or More!

An Encountering Jesus Retreat led by Fr Bart Parys, a Divine Word Missionary based in Ireland, will be at St Kentigern’s Church, Parkgrove Avenue, Barnton, Edinburgh during 24-26 March. It is designed as a three-day retreat, but no requirement to come to all three days if you can't make it! Come for private prayer, fellowship, an opportunity to listen to testimonies and participate in the Eucharist: Friday 24 March 7:30pm - 8:30pm; Saturday 25 March 10:00am - 3:00pm (Bring packed lunch - teas/coffees and bisc

Read the newsletter for 12th March (pdf)