Catholics across our community of faith welcomed a new bishop on Monday, when Fr Stephen Wang was ordained as the sixth Bishop of our Diocese. Words from St Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians form the basis of Bishop Stephen’s episcopal motto: “Veritas in caritate.” Reflecting on their significance on Monday, he said: “‘To speak the truth in love’ is a phrase that has inspired my whole priesthood: the search for truth, and the conviction that truth and love can never contradict. If we love God, and love our neighbour; if we seek the truth and speak the truth in love; what more could God want from us, and what more could we hope for each other? “I’ve felt remarkably peaceful over the last three months,” he continued. “It’s definitely a grace – the spiritual joy and consolation I’ve experienced since my appointment. I’m not complacent; I understand there will be challenges, but I know it’s all in God’s hands.”

Thank you for all your prayers, support, cards and patience. Thank you to Fr Tony and Fr Dominic, and everyone who has worked hard to keep our parish thriving. Just to say I’m back, but please be gentle!  My prayer for you all and all visitors to our parish. God bless you. Fr Graham

The annual blessing of the graves will take place next Sunday, 1st November. Throughout November, we will have the Books of Remembrance in the church. Please come and write in names of loved ones who have died in the past year (no need to rewrite names from previous years).

Preparing for the Sacraments There will be instruction starting in the coming weeks for the sacraments of First Holy Communion and Confirmation. If you would like to express an interest at this stage or enquire (for you or your child), please speak to Deacon Simon or email the office: adurvalley@abdiocese.org.uk .  First Holy Communion application forms are now available from the sacristy

Saturday Sanctuary, 3 October , 11am-12.45pm, St John the Baptist, Brighton, BN2 1AP. A morning of fellowship, reflection, prayer and silence on selected Saturdays. This session includes an Introduction to Spiritual Direction. See website for more details: www.monksinthecity.uk

Last Friday’s parliamentary vote saw the Assisted Dying Bill defeated by 286 votes to 270.  Archbishop John Sherrington thanked all who contacted their MPs and all who spoke up for the dignity of human life. He reminded us that compassion means accompanying those who suffer with care and solidarity, not encouraging an end to life.

Pope Leo appointed Fr Stephen Wang as sixth bishop of our Diocese on 2 July. In a video recorded recently for the Catholic Truth Society (CTS), Bishopelect Stephen offers a simple, practical introduction to prayer. “Prayer is wonderful,” he says, “prayer is so important, but prayer can be hard as well. How many times have people come up to me as a priest and said, ‘Father, I want to pray, but I don't know how to start. I don't know what to do, and I feel a bit stuck…’ “I remember the first time I prayed as an adult; I didn't really know what to do, but I was in my bedroom. I closed my door. I sat on the edge of my bed and… just talked to God and said something like, ‘Dear God, I'm not sure if you're there. I hope you're listening. These are the things on my heart, on my mind…’” “I encourage you, whatever way works for you in prayer, find it and stick to that. There aren't too many rules, but if you can find a little bit of quiet [or] silence, listening prayerfully to the Word of God… can be a great help to prayer.” Click here to see the talk in full: Bishop-Elect Stephen on prayer Or search for Catholic Truth Society on YouTube.

There will be a free ‘Poetry Café’ at St Peter’s on Thursday 1st October from 12.00-2.00pm. Music, poetry and refreshments. Free entry. All are welcome. See poster and Wordfest brochure for more details.

If you have any pre-loved/outgrown children’s winter coats, hats, gloves etc. please bring to St Peter’s, and they will be taken to the SVP project in Worthing.  Thank you for your support.