Official communiqué of the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter – Fribourg, March 1st, 2024.
Following a request from the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter, Pope Francis invited Fr. Andrzej Komorowski, Superior General of the FSSP, to meet with him. He received him in private audience at the Vatican on Thursday, February 29, 2024, accompanied by Fr. Benoît Paul-Joseph, Superior of the District of France, and Fr. Vincent Ribeton, Rector of St. Peter’s Seminary in Wigratzbad.
The meeting was an opportunity for them to express their deep gratitude to the Holy Father for the decree of February 11, 2022, by which the Pope confirmed the liturgical specificity of the Fraternity of St. Peter, but also to share with him the difficulties encountered in its application. The Pope was very understanding and invited the Fraternity of St. Peter to continue to build up ecclesial communion ever more fully through its own proper charism. Fr. Komorowski informed the Holy Father that the decree of February 11, 2022 had been given on the very day of the Fraternity of St. Peter’s consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, on the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. The Holy Father hailed this coincidence as a providential sign.
The Holy Father Francis, grants to each and every member of the Society of Apostolic Life “Fraternity of Saint Peter”, founded on July 18, 1988 and declared of “Pontifical Right” by the Holy See, the faculty to celebrate the sacrifice of the Mass, and to carry out the sacraments and other sacred rites, as well as to fulfill the Divine Office, according to the typical editions of the liturgical books, namely the Missal, the Ritual, the Pontifical and the Roman Breviary, in force in the year 1962.
They may use this faculty in their own churches or oratories; otherwise it may only be used with the consent of the Ordinary of the place, except for the celebration of private Masses.
Without prejudice to what has been said above, the Holy Father suggests that, as far as possible, the provisions of the motu proprio Traditionis Custodes be taken into account as well.
Given in Rome, near St. Peter’s, on February 11, the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, in the year 2022, the ninth year of my Pontificate.
TODAY: Sat 24 Feb, talk by Fr de Malleray on How the Sacred Liturgy sanctifies us –
at the 12noon LADIES’ Group in Bedford (Christ the King Church, Donovan Room: shared picnic 12noon and Talk 1pm);
and at the 7pm Adult Catechism in Chesham Bois.
FSSP Chaplaincy Bulletin,
25 February – 2 March2024
Served by the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter by appointment from the RC Diocese of Northampton
Residence: St Alban House, 18 Brett Drive, Bromham, Bedford MK43 8RF
Landline: 01234 954 316
Worship: Christ the King Church, Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP; and on Sundays and major feasts at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Chesham Bois, 30 Amersham Road, HP6 5PE
Holy Days: 11:30am (check website before travelling)
Bedford CONFESSIONS TIMES
Sat 10:00am-10:55am. And during or around Holy Mass when possible, including in Chesham Bois.
Safeguarding: If you have concerns about children or vulnerable adults, please contact the FSSP England Safeguarding Lead, Fr Matthew Goddard: goddard@fssp.org. Reminder: Children must be accompanied to the loo by a parent.
In general Lent should be a time of penance, almsgiving, and prayer. Please be generous with your sacrifices and mortifications for Our Lord. We recommend this Lent to donate to the Good Counsel Network, a deserving charity assisting mothers under pressure to abort: https://www.goodcounselnet.co.uk/donate
Well done 13 men (out of 15 expected) who spent last weekend discerning on their calling, at Buckden Towers. The participants came from all over the UK, and even from Europe. They listened to conferences on vocation in general, Holy Matrimony, religious life, the Sacred Priesthood, Holy Mass, and liturgical traditions. We are grateful to the Claretian Fathers for their hospitality at their retreat centre, to the generous benefactors who helped is various ways such as advertising the weekend ahead of the event, sponsoring unwaged participants, giving lifts to those coming by train, taking care of the meals – and praying for vocations.
O Lord, grant us many holy priests, religious vocations and saintly families!
Chaplaincy Pilgrimage to Walsingham next Spring: With the national Marian Shrine only two hours from Bedford, there is interest for as many as possible to travel there in Eastertide. Please let Rita Carroll know whether you prefer: Day trip; Stay overnight, one/two nights; coach/car.
Traditional Pilgrimage of Pentecost Paris-Chartres in France 18-20 May: join the Brits among 16,000 pilgrims. Email chartres@duc-in-altum.co.uk
42nd Pentecost Pilgrimage Paris-Chartres Registrations now open for British pilgrims via this online formFri 17 May, 8am: departure by coach from Westminster Cathedral, London Pilgrimage begins in Paris, Sat 18 May, early morning (independent travel possible, but registration still necessary) Closing Mass at Chartres Cathedral, Mon 20 May, mid-afternoon Tue 21 May, ca 8pm: arrival of coach back in London Cost: £325 (including accommodation) [½-price for under-12s] More information here — or by contacting the national co-ordinators here — or by speaking to Michael Hall at St Mary’s
Tell your priest, seminarian or friar friends:
CLERGY RETREAT by Fr de Malleray at STONYHURST 14-18 Oct 2024
In the Footsteps of the Great Saintly Priests
Reflections on St John Fisher, St John Vianney and St Padre Pio
The latest MEN’s GROUP took place on Thu 22 February, with a talk by Fr de Malleray on Personhood: what a person is, what it is not, its abilities and rights.
Stations of the Cross led by a priest after the 8am Friday Mass.
Interest was expressed from various quarters (Bedford, Chesham, London) by single ladies for a day of vocational discernment. About ten ladies have confirmed interest for one-day event. Date and location are to be confirmed soon, probably in London soon after Easter.
For: single Catholic ladies 18+ (if under 18 years of age, contact us)
Regina Caeli UK are employing part-time tutors at their Bedfordshire centre. Please contact them for further information and to apply: info@rcahybrid.co.uk
Pray for young pro-lifers attending the SPUC weekend 23-25 Feb at Stone ST15 0NL, with Mass by FSSP priest.
Update on Bedford relocation of Chaplaincy congregation
Since last week’s newsletter was released, Bishop Oakley wrote that Fr Aladics, PP is able to continue offering hospitality to the FSSP Chaplaincy at Christ the King until the summer, with Sunday Masses and weekdays. A liaison committee is to meet shortly with Fr Aladics to find solutions to possible clashes of schedules and any other concerns. Please continue to pray for a just and charitable outcome to the present difficulty, bearing in mind that no trial is in vain if embraced in a spirit of atonement and intercession.
Please note that the Chaplaincy’s Offertory collection is still entirely retained by the parish until further notice. Please refrain from commenting on this situation on social media but, in addition to praying, feel welcome to send any comments, questions or suggestions to the Chaplaincy Secretary Mrs Rita Carroll at bedford@fssp.org. We will keep you updated as soon as we are able to.
PREPARATION to the SACRAMENTS:
Please kindly email Chaplaincy Secretary Mrs Rita Carroll (bedford@fssp.org) the full details of candidates (includes date of birth) for
First Holy Communion (Sunday 2nd June 2024) and/or
Confirmation (Sat 27th July 2024) .
Also for Holy Matrimony (if any), and
Baptism.
Schedules for preparation will be communicated soon.
Next Altar servers training: Saturdays 23, 30 March (at a Bedford location to be announced later). Book with Francis Ibabu, our Servers’ Coordinator on: ibabu10@proton.me. Serving is an honour and brings many graces. One can start with just a Low Mass with one server. Everyone under 18 must have a signed parental consent form (ask Rita Carroll).
The Christian Heritage Centre at Stonyhurst sent us the following:
Recruiting students in year 12 (16-17) for the 2024 Christian Leadership Formation programme.
2024 Christian Leadership Formation programme
For students currently in Year 12, this is an exciting and unique opportunity to engage with the Catholic vision for the human person and society, to meet Catholic academics and politicians, and to equip themselves with the tools to bring their Catholic or Christian faith to bear in the public forum.
The programme is made up of 3 residential modules, delivered in the summer holidays after year 12 (at Stonyhurst), and in the October and February half-terms (in NW London). Together, the modules offer:
A grounding in the philosophy and theology underpinning key themes related to the common good
a strong, liturgical framework of Mass, divine office, Eucharistic adoration, rosary, and a 12-hour silent retreat
Workshops in public speaking, personal and political virtues, and in changing culture
Team-building activities and socials
Students receive a certificate validated by St Mary’s University, Twickenham on completion, presented in Westminster Hall.
Grants are available to offer any level of subsidy, as required.
CHAPLAINCY FINANCES: online donations and standing orders are still gratefully received, being also much quicker and easier to process than cash. Thank you in advance for your generosity.
Sort code: 30-80-27 Account number: 44025960
Thank you in advance.
GIFT AID: Increase your donation to the FSSP Chaplaincy by 25% at no further expense to you. Ask Rita for a Gift Aid form, fill it in and hand it back to her. That will help us a lot.
Pray for the sick in our congregations: Tom and Inma Jones, Patsy Crocker, Vincent Jones, Joseph Osborn, Rod Henry. R.I.P. Carl Roberts. Please email to sick list.
Served by the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter by appointment from the RC Diocese of Northampton
Residence: St Alban House, 18 Brett Drive, Bromham, Bedford MK43 8RF
Landline: 01234 954 316
Worship: Christ the King Church, Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP; and on Sundays and major feasts at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Chesham Bois, 30 Amersham Road, HP6 5PE
Holy Days: 11:30am (check website before travelling)
Bedford CONFESSIONS TIMES
Sat 10:00am-10:55am. And during or around Holy Mass when possible, including in Chesham Bois.
Safeguarding: If you have concerns about children or vulnerable adults, please contact the FSSP England Safeguarding Lead, Fr Matthew Goddard: goddard@fssp.org.
Reminder: Children must be accompanied to the loo by a parent.
In general Lent should be a time of penance, almsgiving, and prayer. Please be generous with your sacrifices and mortifications for Our Lord.
We recommend this Lent to donate to the Good Counsel Network, a deserving charity assisting mothers under pressure to abort: https://www.goodcounselnet.co.uk/donate
Well done all of us who made or renewed their Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary last Sunday.
Chaplaincy Pilgrimage to Walsingham next Spring: With the national Marian Shrine only two hours from Bedford, there is interest for as many as possible to travel there in Eastertide. Please let Rita Carroll know whether you prefer: Day trip; Stay overnight, one/two nights; coach/car.
Traditional Pilgrimage of Pentecost Paris-Chartres in France 18-20 May: join the Brits among 16,000 pilgrims. Email chartres@duc-in-altum.co.uk
Next MEN’s GROUP: Thu 22 February, 7:30pm for 8pm talk. Talk by Fr de Malleray on
Personhood: what a person is, what it is not, its abilities and rights.
Please note that 22nd Feb is FIRST Class feast across the FSSP, so that Lenten mortifications may be lifted on that day for those attending FSSP-led activities.
On Sat 24 Feb, talk by Fr de Malleray on
How the Sacred Liturgy sanctifies us –
at the 12noon LADIES’ Group;
and at the 7pm Adult Catechism in Chesham Bois.
Stations of the Cross this week: time to be announced on Sunday morning.
DISCERNMENT DAY FOR SINGLE LADIES:
Interest was expressed from various quarters (Bedford, Chesham, London) by single ladies for a day of vocational discernment.
Register interest: malleray@fssp.org
Pray for 15 men on vocation discernment with Fr de Malleray at Buckden Towers this weekend 16-18 Feb. O Lord, grant us many holy priests!
TUTORS WANTED: Regina Caeli UK are employing part-time tutors at their Bedfordshire centre. Please contact them for further information and to apply: info@rcahybrid.co.uk
Young pro-lifers: SPUC weekend 23-25 Feb at Stone ST15 0NL, with Mass by FSSP priest:
The FSSP “Gregorian” Chaplaincy is the canonical structure established in January 2015 by Bishop Peter Doyle of Northampton and Very Rev Fr John Berg, then-Superior General FSSP, to serve the needs of those attached to the “usus antiquior” across the Northampton Diocese. It was approved again in December 2023 by Bishop Oakley of Northampton and Very Rev Andrzej Komorowski, Superior General FSSP.
Fr Patrick Hutton, and Fr Patrick O’Donohue, FSSP
Since October 2017 the Chaplaincy has ministered at Christ the King Church in Bedford by kind permission of then-parish priest Fr Patrick Hutton and of his successor Fr Nicholas Nwanzi. During eight years the Chaplaincy has contributed generously to the life of the parish, financially and by ways of activities, services and friendships. The new parish priest Fr Richard Aladics arrived last summer from the Leeds diocese. In late October the FSSP chaplaincy began ministering daily at Christ the King with Bishop Oakley’s permission. Regrettably our daily ministry has made the new parish priest to feel as if he were less able to attend to the needs of his parish. He therefore asked that the Chaplaincy might not serve at Christ the King any longer.
While regretting that state of things, Bishop Oakley reiterated his support to the FSSP Chaplaincy in Bedford, including the announced date for Confirmations on Sat 27 July 2024, 3pm. First Holy Communions will also take place as planned on Corpus Christi Sunday (2 June 2024), as well as any other commitments such as baptisms, receptions of converts, and weddings. An alternative venue is being sought for our daily ministry in Bedford as of Monday 26 February, and soon enough for our 8:30am Sunday Masses. Thosecarry on as usual at Christ the King until further notice. Our Bedford Offertory collection still goes to the parish, not the Chaplaincy.
Please note that this change is only about relocating our ministrywithin Bedford. St Alban House remains with two priests full-time, as do our other Mass centre of Chesham Bois, our usual groups and activities, including Regina Caeli Academy and the Scouts. Meanwhile your prayers are welcome for a smooth transition. You may send any comments, questions or suggestions to the Chaplaincy Secretary Mrs Rita Carroll at bedford@fssp.org.
PREPARATION to the SACRAMENTS:
Please kindly email Chaplaincy Secretary Mrs Rita Carroll (bedford@fssp.org) the full details of candidates for First Holy Communion and/or Confirmation (includes date of birth). Also for Holy Matrimony (if any), and Baptism. Schedules for preparation will be communicated soon.
Next Altar servers training: Saturdays 23, 30 March (at a Bedford location to be announced later). Book with Francis Ibabu, our Servers’ Coordinator on: ibabu10@proton.me. Serving is an honour and brings many graces. One can start with just a Low Mass with one server. Everyone under 18 must have a signed parental consent form (ask Rita Carroll).
FINANCES: online donations and standing orders are still gratefully received, being also much quicker and easier to process than cash. Thank you in advance for your generosity.
Sort code: 30-80-27 Account number: 44025960
Thank you in advance.
Lenten reading: discover the hidden riches of the medieval Marian hymn Stabat Mater.
Join our Blessed Mother at the foot of the Cross of her Son and walk with her on the road from life to death to eternal life, by meditating upon the Stabat Mater line by line.
GIFT AID: Increase your donation to the FSSP Chaplaincy by 25% at no further expense to you. Ask Rita for a Gift Aid form, fill it in and hand it back to her. That will help us a lot.
Pray for the sick in our congregations: Tom and Inma Jones, Patsy Crocker, Vincent Jones, Joseph Osborn, Rod Henry. R.I.P. Carl Roberts. Please email to sick list.
HOLY MASS INTENTIONS this week
Sunday
18/02
8.30am
First Sunday of Lent (I) (Bedford)
Wladyslaw Baran RIP
Baderko
Sunday
18/02
12pm
First Sunday of Lent (I) (Chesham)
Sebastiano Di Falco RIP
Di Falco
Monday
19/02
10am
Feria (III)
Stephen Carroll RIP
Carroll
Tuesday
20/02
8am
Feria (III)
In Honour of BVM in Thanksgiving
Di Falco
Wednesday
21/02
8am [or instead 7:30pm after 6:45pm Stations, check for updates]
Served by the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter by appointment from the RC Diocese of Northampton
Residence: St Alban House, 18 Brett Drive, Bromham, Bedford MK43 8RF
Landline: 01234 954 316
Worship: Christ the King Church, Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP; and on Sundays and major feasts at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Chesham Bois, 30 Amersham Road, HP6 5PE
NEW: PayPal button on our webpage in support of the Bedford & Chesham Bois Chaplaincy: https://fssp.org.uk/donate/.
PayPal is a quick way for a one-off donation. If you intend to give regularly, please do rather set up a standing order to our FSSP Bedford & Chesham Bois account so as to avoid losing money to PayPal. Thank you.
Holy Days: 11:30am (check website before travelling)
Bedford CONFESSIONS TIMES
Sat 10:00am-10:55am. And during or around Holy Mass when possible, including in Chesham Bois.
Safeguarding: If you have concerns about children or vulnerable adults, please contact the FSSP England Safeguarding Lead, Fr Matthew Goddard: goddard@fssp.org.
BEDFORD (but useful for Chesham Bois as well): Parish Safeguarding Notice on Use of Toilets on all Church Premises With Immediate effect, any child wishing to use the toilet during mass, or the facilities in the Church Hall, MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY THEIR ADULT. This will avoid any chance of an inadvertent safeguarding incident occurring. It also ensures that the facilities are left in a clean and presentable state for the next user. As pointed out by Fr Richard, there are two entrances to the toilet area in the Church, and sometimes the outer entrance door at the side of the Church is left unlocked, and therefore anyone could enter the toilet foyer area unobserved. This is a security issue which will be addressed and the same applies to the toilet area in the Church Hall. Previously, the congregation had been asked to go around the outside of the Church to access the toilets, but that has proved impractical, especially in bad weather. Fr Richard is more than happy to have parishioners walk down the side aisle inside the Church to the toilets. Dale Bunting-Gray. Parish Safeguarding Representative.
Fr de Malleray adds: As much as possible, to facilitate recollection for all, parents are requested to accompany their children to the toilets preferably before or after holy Mass. People tend to avoid walking through the church during the Canon of the Mass and Consecration (unless accessing via the outside door). Thank you.
Join us for coffee after Sunday Mass, both in Bedford and Chesham Bois. Follow the crowd into nearby parish halls.
We are looking for VOLUNTEERS to set up and serve one Sunday a month at the after-mass coffee gatherings at CHESHAM BOIS and BEDFORD. Young People and Senior volunteers are welcome. Thank you in advance. Contact Rita, or in Chesham Bois Helen Lodge helenlodge7@gmail.com.
In February 2022 the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter (FSSP) undertook a Novena of Preparation for its Worldwide Solemn Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The consecration took place on 11 February, the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. The same day, Pope Francis signed a decree confirming the liturgical charism of the FSSP, following his meeting with FSSP superiors on 4 February previous.
The FSSP worldwide will renew this consecration after the Masses on Sunday 11 February 2024. As local Chaplain, Fr Armand de Malleray invites you and your family to join the novena in preparation for this, starting this Friday 2 February. The prayers are simply 1) one decade of the rosary and 2) the Memorare, as follows:
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me.
This past week our entire congregation has prayed together for the common spiritual good of our community and for one another. In a beautiful expression of fraternal charity every household has given thanks in writing for the graces granted by God, and expressed petitions for their continuation and even their increase. Let us continue to pray, communicate, and plan as befits children of the Immaculate.
This consecration must be recited on February 11 by all the members of the Fraternity; the faithful who wish to do so may join in.
O Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God and Help of Christians, behold this day before thy feet, the priests and seminarians of the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter, together with all those who, united with us as a spiritual family, place their hope and trust in thee.
O Queen and Mother of all priests, it was by thee that Jesus, the High Priest and Victim, was given unto the world, and He in turn has given thee as Mother to us.
Intercede, therefore, we implore thee, for us thy children, whom thou didst receive and accept at the foot of the Cross. Look with favour upon the work we seek to do for the glory of God and the salvation of souls. Obtain for us by thy prayers the graces we need as members of the one Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church, to be instructed and enlightened by her Magisterium, to be devoutly zealous for the graces of her Sacraments, and to be unfailingly loyal in our unity with the Vicar of thy Son.
CHAPLAINCY PILGRIMAGE TO WALSINGHAM
With the national Marian Shrine only two hours from Bedford, there is interest for as many as possible to travel there this Spring. Please let Rita Carroll know whether you prefer:
Stay overnight one night
Stay overnight two nights
Day trip only
Travelling in shared coach
Travelling separately
Next MEN’s GROUP: Thu 22 February, 7:30pm for 8pm talk. Talk by Fr de Malleray on Personhood: what a person is, what it is not, its abilities and rights.
Next LADIES’ Group: Sat 24 Feb 12noon for 1pm talk. Last month 20 ladies attended the talk.
Chesham Bois Adult monthly Catechism:Sat 24 Feb, 7pm.
WHEN?
Stations of the Cross will take place in Lent. The best time seems to be after the 8am Friday Mass, around 8:40am, ending around 9:15am. Suggest other times if you wish. The Friday evenings are not available to us. Saturdays might be possible but only if the two priests are present at the same time, one in the confessional and the other leading the stations, which is not always an option.
The Stations are an essential Catholic devotion, especially in Lent, and we would love to hear from your family when you are more likely to attend.
TUTORS WANTED:
Regina Caeli UK are employing part-time tutors at their Bedfordshire centre.
Please contact them for further information and to apply.
Catholic Community Spring Dance near Tring
Saturday 27th April 1-8pm
BOOKINGS NOW OPEN
Email georgetyldesley@gmail.com for tickets.
PRAY for 15 men booked
for the VOCATION DISCERNMENT WEEKEND near BEDFORD 16-18 Feb:
at Buckden Towers, High Street, Buckden, St. Neots, Cambs PE19 5TA, from Fri 16 Feb 5pm, to Sun 18 Feb 2pm. For single Catholic men 18-30. Led by Fr de Malleray, FSSP.
DISCERNMENT DAY FOR SINGLE LADIES:
Interest was expressed to Fr de Malleray from various quarters (Bedford, Chesham, London) by single ladies for a day of vocational discernment.
Please email Fr de Malleray now to register interest, indicating your age and whether you favour a one-day event (about 10am to 5pm including Holy Mass, picnic, conferences) or a weekend (more expensive and logistically more complex, but worth it if sufficient number of participants).
Young pro-lifers: SPUC weekend 23-25 Feb at Stone ST15 0NL, with Mass by FSSP priest:
Or in Cambridge https://www.gofundme.com/f/cambridge-university-prolife-society
Juventutem London with Fr de Malleray and 70 young adults last Fri 9 Feb. at SW18 2QU. www.facebook.com/londonjuventutem. 6pm Confessions; 7pm Sung Mass, 8pm Social.
It was very good to see young members from our congregations in Bedford and elsewhere, and some travelling from Portsmouth, Peterborough, and Oxford – and last month one from Warrington.
The Bedford scouts of Europe wolfcub and scout branch is growing. Contact Robert on robert543@gmail.com or 07947698195. Visit the website: gseuk.org.
CHARTRES PILGRIMAGE 2024
Dear Friends and Prospective Pilgrims,
Chartres sonne! It’s that time again!
We are delighted to invite you to the 42nd Chartres Pilgrimage. We hope you are able to join us for this unforgettable pilgrimage in honour of Our Blessed Mother. The theme of this year’s pilgrimage is “I want to see God”.
There will be a British group leaving Westminster Cathedral, London on a coach on Friday, 17 May 2024. Please aim to arrive for 6.45am to load bags on the coach. We plan to have a Mass of Departure in the Cathedral Crypt at 7am prior to departure at 8am pending permission (TBC). The coach returns back to London on 21st May 2024 around 8pm.
The cost of the pilgrimage is £325 (plus £75 for a single room supplement, subject to availability). Children under 12 are £162. This cost includes hotel accommodation in Paris (B&B) on Friday night and in Chartres on Tuesday night (DBB). Please note all under 18s need to be accompanied by a parent or a responsible older relative.
We are now accepting registrations via this link: Registration Form. This year we have added the option to pay online through the form via card (for a 2.1% fee). You may of course pay by bank transfer if you prefer. Details are in the payment section of the form. The deadline for the applications is 29th March 2024. Please apply quickly as we expect places to sell out fast!
If you wish to travel independently and join the group in Paris on Saturday morning to walk with our chapters, please use the link to register with us for £50. This includes the registration fee, booklet and receiver (to hear the meditations etc. during the pilgrimage). Unfortunately there is not enough space in our hotels to accommodate pilgrims joining us separately.
Please note that there will be no refunds possible within 3 weeks of the pilgrimage.
We will have 2 adult/youth chapters and a family chapter (provided there is sufficient interest).
Further information is contained in the attached booklet to this email. If you require additional information or have any questions, please contact us on email Chartres@duc-in-altum.co.uk.
We look forward to seeing you on the road to Chartres, Deo volente!
God Bless, Francis, Helen, Raja, Jeremiah National Co-ordinators
PREPARATION to the SACRAMENTS:
Please kindly email Chaplaincy Secretary Mrs Rita Carroll (bedford@fssp.org) the full details of candidates for First Holy Communion and/or Confirmation (includes date of birth). Also for Holy Matrimony (if any), and Baptism. Schedules for preparation will be communicated in January. A date is about to be announced for Confirmations by Bishop David Oakley in Bedford on Sat 27 July at 3pm.
Well done the boys who attended the latest practice on Sat 10 Feb.
Next Altar servers training: Saturday 24 February, 9:50am to 10:50am.
Contact Francis Ibabu, our Servers’ Coordinator on: ibabu10@proton.me. Serving is an honour and brings many graces. One can start with just a Low Mass with one server. Everyone under 18 must have a signed parental consent form (ask Rita Carroll).
FINANCES: online donations and standing orders are still gratefully received, being also much quicker and easier to process than cash. Thank you in advance for your generosity.
Sort code: 30-80-27 Account number: 44025960
Thank you in advance.
GIFT AID: Increase your donation to the FSSP Chaplaincy by 25% at no further expense to you. Ask Rita for a Gift Aid form, fill it in and hand it back to her. That will help us a lot.
Pray for the sick in our congregations: Tom and Inma Jones, Patsy Crocker, Vincent Jones, Joseph Osborn, Rod Henry. R.I.P. Carl Roberts. Please email to sick list.
HOLY MASSES 11-17 FEBRUARY 2024
Sunday 11/02/2024 8.30am Quinquagesima Sunday (II) (Bedford) Aleksander Oledzki RIP Oledzka Sunday 11/02/2024 12pm Quinquagesima Sunday (II) (Chesham) For the FSSP and the Traditional Latin Mass Monday 12/02/2024 10am 7 Holy Founders of the Order of the Servants of Mary CC (III) Andrew Madden RIP Madden Tuesday 13/02/2024 8am Feria (IV) Ann Dowd RIP Bryan
Imposition of ashes at each of the three Masses: Wednesday 14/02/2024 8am Bedford Ash Wednesday (I) Simone Serra – Wednesday 14/02/2024 7pm Bedford Ash Wednesday (I) Priest’s Intention Wednesday 14/02/2024 7pm Chesham Bois Ash Wednesday (I) Priest’s Intention Thursday 15/02/2024 8am Feria (III) Christopher Serra – Friday 16/02/2024 8am Feria (III) Lynn Anne Hamel RIP Hamel Saturday 17/02/2024 11am Feria (III) Luca Buttacca –
Served by the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter by appointment from the RC Diocese of Northampton
Residence: St Alban House, 18 Brett Drive, Bromham, Bedford MK43 8RF
Landline: 01234 954 316
Worship: Christ the King Church, Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP; and on Sundays and major feasts at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Chesham Bois, 30 Amersham Road, HP6 5PE
Holy Days: 11:30am (check website before travelling)
Bedford CONFESSIONS TIMES
Sat 10:00am-10:55am. And during or around Holy Mass when possible, including in Chesham Bois.
Safeguarding: If you have concerns about children or vulnerable adults, please contact the FSSP England Safeguarding Lead, Fr Matthew Goddard: goddard@fssp.org.
Join us for coffee after Sunday Mass, both in Bedford and Chesham Bois. Follow the crowd into nearby parish halls.
We are looking for VOLUNTEERS to set up and serve one Sunday a month at the after-mass coffee gatherings at CHESHAM BOIS and BEDFORD. Young People and Senior volunteers are welcome. Thank you in advance. Contact Rita, or in Chesham Bois Helen Lodge helenlodge7@gmail.com.
In February 2022 the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter (FSSP) undertook a Novena of Preparation for its Worldwide Solemn Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The consecration took place on 11 February, the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. The same day, Pope Francis signed a decree confirming the liturgical charism of the FSSP, following his meeting with FSSP superiors on 4 February previous.
The FSSP worldwide will renew this consecration after the Masses on Sunday 11 February 2024. Your local FSSP Chaplain Fr Armand de Malleray invites you and your family to join the novena in preparation for this, starting this Friday 2 February.
The prayers are simply 1) one decade of the rosary and 2) the Memorare, as follows:
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary,
that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection,
implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided.
Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee,
O Virgin of virgins, my mother;
to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful.
O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions,
but in thy mercy hear and answer me.
Please pray especially for the intentions of the FSSP Chaplaincy in Bedford and Chesham Bois.
Next MEN’s GROUP: Thu 22 February, 7:30pm for 8pm talk.
Next LADIES’ Group: Sat 24 Feb 12noon for 1pm talk.
Last Saturday 20 ladies attended the latest talk, and 30 parishioners attended Fr de Malleray’s talk in Chesham Bois.
St Blaise Blessing of throats on Sat 3rd February (around 11:40am)
following the 11am Holy Mass of the Immaculate Heart of Mary as First Saturday devotion,
after Confessions 10am-10:55am.
Kneel down at the altar rail just as for Holy Communion. Wait for the priest to lay the cross-shaped (unlit) candles against your throat while he invokes St Blaise’s blessing upon you, saying in Latin: “Through the intercession of St. Blaise, bishop and martyr, may God set you free from every disease of the throat, and from every other disease. In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
Stations of the Cross will take place in Lent. The best time seems to be after the 8am Friday Mass, around 8:40am, ending around 9:15am. Suggest other times if you wish.
Lost property: A Father Lasance missal was found in church. Contact us.
Catholic Community Spring Dance near Tring
Saturday 27th April 1-8pm
BOOKINGS NOW OPEN
Email georgetyldesley@gmail.com for tickets.
BOOKINGS TAKEN until 9 February
Over 30 years of age: contact us
Share with friends: VOCATION DISCERNMENT WEEKEND near BEDFORD 16-18 Feb: at Buckden Towers, High Street, Buckden, St. Neots, Cambs PE19 5TA, from Fri 16 Feb 5pm, to Sun 18 Feb 2pm. For single Catholic men 18-30. Led by Fr de Malleray, FSSP.
Ten men booked already. MORE SPACES.
COST: £95.00 per person in total (bed + full board). FREE for unwaged and students – give whatever amount you can.
BOOKINGS & CONTACT: [not via Facebook] malleray@fssp.org (read by Fr de Malleray only).
ACCESS: Direct train from London St Pancras to St Neots, every half hour, duration 56 minutes. Share the link: https://fssp.org.uk/vocation-weekend-near-bedford-16-18-feb-2024/
SPUC Youth Conference FSSP Reading is pleased to promote the SPUC Youth Conference. Standard Ticket: £160. Holy Mass Sat and Sunday by FSSP priest.
Bedford PARKING: from 27th Jan the Novus Ordo Mass will starts at 10:30am instead of 11am, so that there is less time for cars to park and/or depart. Please park on the outskirts of the car park to avoid being blocked by incoming cars. One can also park on the grass outside the car park, or at the Bunyan Centre across the roundabout.
The Bedford scouts of Europe wolfcub and scout branch is growing. Contact Robert on robert543@gmail.com or 07947698195. Visit the website: gseuk.org.
PREPARATION to the SACRAMENTS:
Please kindly email Chaplaincy Secretary Mrs Rita Carroll (bedford@fssp.org) the full details of candidates for First Holy Communion and/or Confirmation (includes date of birth). Also for Holy Matrimony (if any), and Baptism. Schedules for preparation will be communicated in January. A date is about to be announced for Confirmations by Bishop David Oakley in Bedford on Sat 27 July at 3pm.
Well done four boys who attended the latest practice.
Next Altar servers training: Saturdays 10 and 24 February, 9:50am to 10:50am.
Contact Francis Ibabu, our Servers’ Coordinator on: ibabu10@proton.me. Serving is an honour and brings many graces. One can start with just a Low Mass with one server. Everyone under 18 must have a signed parental consent form (ask Rita Carroll).
FINANCES: online donations and standing orders are still gratefully received, being also much quicker and easier to process than cash. Thank you in advance for your generosity.
Sort code: 30-80-27 Account number: 44025960
GIFT AID: Increase your donation to the FSSP Chaplaincy by 25% at no further expense to you. Ask Rita for a Gift Aid form, fill it in and hand it back to her. That will help us a lot.
Pray for the sick in our congregations: Patsy Crocker, Vincent Jones, Joseph Osborn, Rod Henry. R.I.P. Carl Roberts. Please email to sick list.
Served by the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter by appointment from the RC Diocese of Northampton
Residence: St Alban House, 18 Brett Drive, Bromham, Bedford MK43 8RF
Landline: 01234 954 316
Worship: Christ the King Church, Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP; and on Sundays and major feasts at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Chesham Bois, 30 Amersham Road, HP6 5PE
Holy Days: 11:30am (check website before travelling)
Bedford CONFESSIONS TIMES
Sat 10:00am-10:55am. And during or around Holy Mass when possible, including in Chesham Bois.
Safeguarding: If you have concerns about children or vulnerable adults, please contact the FSSP England Safeguarding Lead, Fr Matthew Goddard: goddard@fssp.org.
Join us for coffee after Sunday Mass, both in Bedford and Chesham Bois. Follow the crowd into nearby parish halls.
We are looking for VOLUNTEERS to set up and serve one Sunday a month at the after-mass coffee gatherings at CHESHAM BOIS and BEDFORD. Young People and Senior volunteers are welcome. Thank you in advance. Contact Rita, or in Chesham Bois Helen Lodge helenlodge7@gmail.com.
BEDFORD: Thank you to those who responded to the call for volunteers needed for CHURCH CLEANING. A few more would help, making it lighter for all as part of a rota. Contact Rita.
Next Ladies’ group: Sat 27th January 12noon shared lunch, 1pm talk and Q&As – in the Patrick Donegan Room, after 11:00am Holy Mass. Topic: Mental Prayer: meditation, contemplation, centering prayer, relaxation, yoga – discover which prayer suits your soul (and which practice suits no soul at all). And that SAME DAY SAME TALK for all in Chesham Bois in private venue near church 7pm.
Congratulations to John and Chantelle Vooght on the forthcoming Baptism of their daughter Stella scheduled on Friday 26 Jan 3pm, at Christ the King Church. We assure all the family of our prayers.
Bring extra candles to be blessed on Candlemass – Friday 2nd February. Display them on sanctuary steps before Holy Mass begins at 8:00am.
St Blaise Blessing of throats on Sat 3rd February at 11am, followed by Holy Mass of the Immaculate Heart of Mary as First Saturday devotion. Confessions 10am-10:55am.
Stations of the Cross will take place in Lent. The best time seems to be after the 8am Friday Mass, around 8:40am, ending around 9:15am. Suggest other times if you wish.
Lost property: A Father Lasance missal was found in church. Contact us.
Friar Veronico Joseph Mary of the Holy Wounds of Jesus (formerly Shervin Bhadresa) whose family attends Chesham Bois and Reading, is making his Simple Profession with the Marian Franciscans at St Mary’s Friary in Dundee on Friday 2nd February at 10am. Please pray for him.
Share with friends: VOCATION DISCERNMENT WEEKEND near BEDFORD 16-18 Feb: at Buckden Towers, High Street, Buckden, St. Neots, Cambs PE19 5TA, from Fri 16 Feb 5pm, to Sun 18 Feb 2pm. For single Catholic men 18-30. Led by Fr de Malleray, FSSP.
Ten men booked already. MORE SPACES.
COST: £95.00 per person in total (bed + full board). FREE for unwaged and students – give whatever amount you can.
BOOKINGS & CONTACT: [not via Facebook] malleray@fssp.org (read by Fr de Malleray only).
ACCESS: Direct train from London St Pancras to St Neots, every half hour, duration 56 minutes. Share the link: https://fssp.org.uk/vocation-weekend-near-bedford-16-18-feb-2024/
Bedford PARKING: from 27th Jan the Novus Ordo Mass will starts at 10:30am instead of 11am, so that there is less time for cars to park and/or depart. Please park on the outskirts of the car park to avoid being blocked by incoming cars. One can also park on the grass outside the car park, or at the Bunyan Centre across the roundabout.
Dr Teresa Clayton (whose father is part of our FSSP chaplaincy congregation) is a Catholic psychologist available for therapy via video call. Contact : drteresaclayton@outlook.com
The Bedford scouts of Europe wolfcub and scout branch is growing. Contact Robert on robert543@gmail.com or 07947698195. Visit the website: gseuk.org.
PREPARATION to the SACRAMENTS:
Please kindly email Chaplaincy Secretary Mrs Rita Carroll (bedford@fssp.org) the full details of candidates for First Holy Communion and/or Confirmation (includes date of birth). Also for Holy Matrimony (if any), and Baptism. Schedules for preparation will be communicated in January. A date is about to be announced for Confirmations by Bishop David Oakley in Bedford on Sat 27 July at 3pm.
Next Altar servers training: Saturdays 20th and 27th January, 9:50am to 10:50am. Contact Francis Ibabu, our Servers’ Coordinator on: ibabu10@proton.me. Serving is an honour and brings many graces. One can start with just a Low Mass with one server. Everyone under 18 must have a signed parental consent form (ask Rita Carroll).
Pre-Lent begins soon: farewell Alleluia, hello purple from Saturday Vespers 27 Jan. Enjoy your Christmas decorations for the last week.
Parish fundraising Quiz night on Sat 27 January: a Latin Mass team could take part if anyone were available. Contact Rita Carroll.
FINANCES: online donations and standing orders are still gratefully received, being also much quicker and easier to process than cash. Thank you in advance for your generosity.
Sort code: 30-80-27 Account number: 44025960
Christmas collections go to the apostolate, not to individual priests. Thank you in advance.
GIFT AID: Increase your donation to the FSSP Chaplaincy by 25% at no further expense to you. Ask Rita for a Gift Aid form, fill it in and hand it back to her. That will help us a lot.
Pray for the sick in our congregations: Patsy Crocker, Vincent Jones, Joseph Osborn, Carl Roberts, Rod Henry. Please email to sick list.
Served by the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter by appointment from the RC Diocese of Northampton
Residence: St Alban House, 18 Brett Drive, Bromham, Bedford MK43 8RF
Landline: 01234 954 316
Worship: Christ the King Church, Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP; and on Sundays and major feasts at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Chesham Bois, 30 Amersham Road, HP6 5PE
Holy Days: 11:30am (check website before travelling)
Bedford CONFESSIONS TIMES
Sat 10:00am-10:55am. And during or around Holy Mass when possible, including in Chesham Bois.
Safeguarding: If you have concerns about children or vulnerable adults, please contact the FSSP England Safeguarding Lead, Fr Matthew Goddard: goddard@fssp.org.
Join us for coffee after Sunday Mass, both in Bedford and Chesham Bois. Follow the crowd into nearby parish halls.
CHESHAM BOIS and BEDFORD welcome more volunteers to (WO)MAN THE HALL KITCHEN FOR SUNDAY COMMUNITY COFFEE. Can you give an hour after Mass one Sunday a month? Senior or teenage volunteers welcome as well. Thank you in advance. Contact Rita.
BEDFORD: Thank you to those who responded to the call for volunteers needed for CHURCH CLEANING. A few more would help, making it lighter for all as part of a rota. Contact Rita.
Regina Caeli Academy OPEN DAY on Sat 20 Jan, 9:30-12:30pm, Shefford SG17 5AB.
Men’s group doubled in size! Well done 13 men (against 6 last month) who came to our monthly event despite the cold last Thursday evening. They were rewarded with beer and hot drinks, plus a great social and a talk. Next date soon to be announced.
Next Ladies’ group: Sat 27th January 12noon shared lunch, 1pm talk and Q&As – in the Patrick Donegan Room, after 11:00am Holy Mass.
Topic: Mental Prayer: meditation, contemplation, centering prayer, relaxation, yoga – discover which prayer suits your soul (and which practice suits no soul at all).
And that SAME DAY SAME TALK for all in Chesham Bois in private venue near church 7pm.
Congratulations to John and Chantelle Vooght on the forthcoming Baptism of their first daughter scheduled on Friday 26 Jan 3pm, at Christ the King Church. We assure all the family of our prayers.
Walking to weekday Mass? Five Gentlemen, Christ the King Parishioners attended Mass at Christ the King on Friday morning at 8am, walking from Haynes. The pilgrimage was 2 hours, and just under 10k. The conversation was a great combination of faith and family, and we said the Rosary together as we walked through the farms and bridle paths. It was a great day to start the day! Chris Hallam will be arranging two more walks soon, one on a Saturday when children (aged 7 or older who are capable of walking 10k) are welcome, and another walk, just for Men.
Six men booked already. MORE SPACES. Share with friends: VOCATION DISCERNMENT WEEKEND near BEDFORD 16-18 Feb: at Buckden Towers, High Street, Buckden, St. Neots, Cambs PE19 5TA, from Fri 16 Feb 5pm, to Sun 18 Feb 2pm. For single Catholic men 18-30. Led by Fr de Malleray, FSSP.
COST: £95.00 per person in total (bed + full board). FREE for unwaged and students – give whatever amount you can.
BOOKINGS & CONTACT: [not via Facebook] malleray@fssp.org (read by Fr de Malleray only).
from 27th Jan the Novus Ordo Mass will starts at 10:30am instead of 11am, so that there is less time for cars to park and/or depart. Please park on the outskirts of the car park to avoid being blocked by incoming cars. One can also park on the grass outside the car park, or at the Bunyan Centre across the roundabout.
In your charity please pray for repose of the soul of former parishioner Mary Carey who died in Reading on 11 January surrounded by her family and consoled by the Sacraments. Her funeral will be on Thurs. 25th January at 1pm at St William of York Church, Reading, with the burial at Mays Lane Cemetery at 3pm.
Mary had been for years a member of our community in Reading, but before that, she used to attend Mass in Chesham Bois with her family under Fr Davenport. Fr de Malleray remembers her well and her late husband as stalwart pilgrims on the Chartres pilgrimage for years – indeed the Careys were instrumental in starting the first British Pilgrimage to Chartres, and their son Francis took over this important mission. Please also pray for all her grieving family, especially for her son Francis Carey and his family, our fellow-parishioners in Chesham Bois and Bedford.
Juventutem London monthly event on Friday 26 Jan, 7pm sung Mass (after 6pm-6:55pm Confessions) followed by social until 10pm, at St Mary Magdalen’s Wandsworth, SW18 2QU. Meet the vibrant 70-strong youth group (age 18-35).
Dr Teresa Clayton (whose father is part of our FSSP chaplaincy congregation) is a Catholic psychologist available for therapy via video call. Contact : drteresaclayton@outlook.com
The Bedford scouts of Europe wolfcub and scout branch is growing. Contact Robert on robert543@gmail.com or 07947698195. Visit the website: gseuk.org.
PREPARATION to the SACRAMENTS:
Please kindly email Chaplaincy Secretary Mrs Rita Carroll (bedford@fssp.org) the full details of candidates for First Holy Communion and/or Confirmation (includes date of birth). Also for Holy Matrimony (if any), and Baptism. Schedules for preparation will be communicated in January. A date is about to be announced for Confirmations by Bishop David Oakley in Bedford next July.
Next Altar servers training: Saturdays 20th and 27th January, 9:50am to 10:50am. Contact Francis Ibabu, our Servers’ Coordinator on: ibabu10@proton.me. Serving is an honour and brings many graces. One can start with just a Low Mass with one server. Everyone under 18 must have a signed parental consent form (ask Rita Carroll).
Pre-Lent begins soon: farewell Alleluia, hello purple from Saturday Vespers 28 Jan. Enjoy your Christmas decorations for the last week.
Parish fundraising Quiz night on Sat 27 January: a Latin Mass team could take part if anyone were available. Contact Rita Carroll.
Counting offertory collections in Bedford: thank you to the volunteers. More are welcome. It should only take about 15 minutes. Two people will be needed each week. Please contact Rita Carroll if you can volunteer.
FINANCES: online donations and standing orders are still gratefully received, being also much quicker and easier to process than cash. Thank you in advance for your generosity.
Sort code: 30-80-27 Account number: 44025960
Christmas collections go to the apostolate, not to individual priests. Thank you in advance.
GIFT AID: Increase your donation to the FSSP Chaplaincy by 25% at no further expense to you. Ask Rita for a Gift Aid form, fill it in and hand it back to her. That will help us a lot.
Pray for the sick in our congregations. Email their names for insertions in next bulletins.
Served by the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter by appointment from the RC Diocese of Northampton
Residence: St Alban House, 18 Brett Drive, Bromham, Bedford MK43 8RF
Landline: 01234 954 316
Worship: Christ the King Church, Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP; and on Sundays and major feasts at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Chesham Bois, 30 Amersham Road, HP6 5PE
Holy Days: 11:30am (check website before travelling)
Bedford CONFESSIONS TIMES
Sat 10:00am-10:55am. And during or around Holy Mass when possible, including in Chesham Bois.
Safeguarding: If you have concerns about children or vulnerable adults, please contact the FSSP England Safeguarding Lead, Fr Matthew Goddard: goddard@fssp.org.
Join us for coffee after Sunday Mass, both in Bedford and Chesham Bois. Follow the crowd into nearby parish halls.
CHESHAM BOIS welcomes VOLUNTEERS to (WO)MAN THE HALL KITCHEN FOR SUNDAY COMMUNITY COFFEE. Can you give an hour after Mass one Sunday a month? Senior or teenage volunteers welcome as well. Thank you in advance.
Volunteers needed for CHURCH CLEANING ROTA at Bedford. Contact Rita.
Regina Caeli Academy OPEN DAY on Sat 20 Jan, 9:30-12:30pm, Shefford SG17 5AB.
Come and discover this growing educational venture providing sound Catholic education for 75 children already.
VOCATION DISCERNMENT WEEKEND near BEDFORD 16-18 Feb: at Buckden Towers, High Street, Buckden, St. Neots, Cambs PE19 5TA, from Fri 16 Feb 5pm, to Sun 18 Feb 2pm. For single Catholic men 18-30. Led by Fr de Malleray, FSSP.
COST: £95.00 per person in total (bed + full board). FREE for unwaged and students – give whatever amount you can.
BOOKINGS & CONTACT: [not via Facebook] malleray@fssp.org (read by Fr de Malleray only).
ACCESS: Direct train from London St Pancras to St Neots, every half hour, duration 56 minutes.
Dr Teresa Clayton (whose father is part of our FSSP chaplaincy congregation) is a Catholic psychologist available for therapy via video call. Contact : drteresaclayton@outlook.com; web page: https://www.icatc-world.com/?lang=en .
NextMen’s group: Thursday 18 Jan, 8:00pm, after 7:30pm tea & biscuit (or beer!) – in the Patrick Donegan Room.
Talk by Fr de Malleray on How the three wise men illustrate the healing of the human soul.
Next Ladies’ group: Sat 27th January 12noon shared lunch, 1pm talk and Q&As – in the Patrick Donegan Room, after 11:00am Holy Mass.
Change of Saturday Mass time: it was suggested that changing from 10am to 11am would be more convenient. Thus, from Sat 13 January we begun with Confessions from 10am to 10:55am, followed by holy Mass at 11am.
The Bedford scouts of Europe wolfcub and scout branch is growing.
Their next meeting is on Sunday 14 January in Willington Peace Memorial Hall in the morning after the 8:30am Mass. For anyone interested in helping or volunteering, please contact Robert on robert543@gmail.com or 07947698195.
Please kindly email Chaplaincy Secretary Mrs Rita Carroll (bedford@fssp.org) the full details of candidates for First Holy Communion and/or Confirmation (includes date of birth). Also for Holy Matrimony (if any), and Baptism. Schedules for preparation will be communicated in January. A date is about to be announced for Confirmations by Bishop David Oakley in Bedford next July.
LAST CHANCE: FSSP UK & Ireland wall 2024 CALENDARS have arrived! Receive your copy after Mass. Free (suggested donation £2).
Next Altar servers training: Saturdays 20th and 27th January, 9:50am to 10:50am. Contact Francis Ibabu, our Servers’ Coordinator on:
Ibabu10@proton.me. Serving is an honour and brings many graces. One can start with just a Low Mass with one server. Everyone under 18 must have a signed parental consent form (ask Rita Carroll).
Parish fundraising Quiz night on Sat 27 January: a Latin Mass team could take part if anyone were available. Contact Rita Carroll.
Offertory Collections in Bedford: up to now they were retained by the parish. Increased expenses for two priests in full-time ministry leads to retaining the Offertory collection, as per the Chaplaincy statutes. This will start in January (as has been the case in Chesham Bois for years). The Chaplaincy will of course continue to contribute its fair share to the upkeep of Christ the King Church. Volunteers needed to count the collection after Mass on Sunday. It should only take about 15 minutes. Two people will be needed each week. Please contact Rita Carroll if you can volunteer.
SPUC White Flower Appeal will take place on Sunday 14th January. There will be a second collection after Mass.
FINANCES: online donations and standing orders are still gratefully received, being also much quicker and easier to process than cash. Thank you in advance for your generosity.
Sort code: 30-80-27 Account number: 44025960
Christmas collections go to the apostolate, not to individual priests. Thank you in advance.
GIFT AID: Increase your donation to the FSSP Chaplaincy by 25% at no further expense to you. Ask Rita for a Gift Aid form, fill it in and hand it back to her. That will help us a lot.
Pray for the sick in our congregations. Email their names for insertions in next bulletins.
Served by the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter by appointment from the RC Diocese of Northampton
Residence: St Alban House, 18 Brett Drive, Bromham, Bedford MK43 8RF
Landline: 01234 954 316
Worship: Christ the King Church, Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP; and on Sundays and major feasts at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Chesham Bois, 30 Amersham Road, HP6 5PE
Holy Days: 11:30am (check website before travelling)
Bedford CONFESSIONS TIMES
Sat 10:00am-10:55am. And during or around Holy Mass when possible, including in Chesham Bois.
Safeguarding: If you have concerns about children or vulnerable adults, please contact the FSSP England Safeguarding Lead, Fr Matthew Goddard: goddard@fssp.org.
Frs de Malleray and Coelho wish you and your families a blessed Epiphany tide. They thank you for your cards, gifts and generous support at Christmas.
[picture King’s College, Cambridge, by Malleray]
Join us for coffee after Sunday Mass, both in Bedford and Chesham Bois. Follow the crowd into nearby parish halls.
No dogs inside the church please. Our beloved pets are requested kindly to wait for their masters outside.
CHESHAM BOIS welcomes VOLUNTEERS to (WO)MAN THE HALL KITCHEN FOR SUNDAY COMMUNITY COFFEE. Can you give an hour after Mass one Sunday a month? Senior or teenage volunteers welcome as well. Thank you in advance.
No holy Mass at Christ the King on Monday 8 Jan, as Fr de Malleray will offer Mass at Regina Caeli Academy that day.
At Buckden Towers, High Street, Buckden, St. Neots, Cambs PE19 5TA
Starts Fri 5:00pm; ends Sun 2:00pm
Is God calling ME? Matrimony, celibacy, monastery, seminary, Fraternity?
COME & SEE If you are a single Catholic man between 18 and 30 years of age, come and discern with us near Bedford. Fr Armand de Malleray, FSSP will lead the weekend. There will be talks, prayers, Holy Mass and informal chatting with fellow-guests. Possibility of private meetings with a priest, and of confession. Feel welcome confidentially to call, email or write for any questions. Holy Mass each of the three days.
COST: £95.00 per person in total (bed + full board). FREE for unwaged and students – give whatever amount you can.
BOOKINGS & CONTACT: [not via Facebook] malleray@fssp.org (read by Fr de Malleray only).
ACCESS: Direct train from London St Pancras to St Neots, every half hour, duration 56 minutes.
The nearest towns are Huntingdon (5 miles NNE of Buckden) and St Neots (5 miles South of Buckden). Both Huntingdon and St Neots are served by the West Anglian Great Northern Railway line from King’s Cross London to Peterborough. Let us know if you would need a lift from the railway station. There also are bus and coach links to both Huntingdon and St Neots from many parts of the country.
We have currently six young men from the UK & Ireland in formation at our two international seminaries. Three of our deacons from England were ordained priests at St Mary’s Warrington by Archbishop McMahon, OP of Liverpool. Those were the first EF priestly ordinations by a diocesan bishop in England in fifty years. Please pray for them (www.fssp.org/en/help-us/confraternity-of-saint-peter/) and for many more to enter the lists!
We give thanks for 13 priests ordained from or to the UK over the past 23 years: Fr Armand de Malleray in 2001; Fr Konrad Loewenstein in 2002; Fr Brendan Gerard in 2006; Frs Matthew Goddard and William Barker in 2009; Fr Simon Harkins in 2010; Fr Matthew McCarthy in 2011; Fr Ian Verrier in 2015; Fr James Mawdsley in 2016; Frs Alex Stewart and Krzysztof Sanetra in 2017; Fr Seth Phipps in 2018; Fr Gwilym Evans in 2022; Deacon Miklos Homolya in 2024 (planned) – plus Fr Patrick O’Donohue from Ireland (incardinated in 2023).
On the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, 11 February 2022, Pope Francis signed a decree confirming the liturgical charism of the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter.
Please pray for us. We assure you of our prayer.
O Lord, grant us many holy priests!
Welcome to ICKSP seminarian Francis Grimer, studying in Italy and visiting us during his holiday.
Dr Teresa Clayton (whose father is part of our FSSP chaplaincy congregation) is a Catholic psychologist available for therapy via video call. As a clinical psychologist she has over ten years’ experience helping people with many difficulties including depression, anxiety, trauma, bereavement and marriage difficulties. Contact : drteresaclayton@outlook.com; web page: https://www.icatc-world.com/?lang=en.
Three new babies! Congratulations to Peter and Maria Jones on the birth of Vincent, and to Peter and Aisling Johnson on the birth of their first child Teresa, both on the feast of St Thomas the Apostle, 21 Dec.; and to Jacek and Catherine Witkowski on the birth of their first child Alice. Little Teresa and Alice will be baptised both on 6th Jan, 1:30pm, at Chesham Bois.
NextMen’s group: Thursday 18 Jan, 8:00pm, after 7:30pm tea & biscuit (or beer!) – in the Patrick Donegan Room.
Next Ladies’ group: Sat 27th January 12noon shared lunch, 1pm talk and Q&As – in the Patrick Donegan Room, after 11:00am Holy Mass.
Change of Saturday Mass time: it was suggested that changing from 10am to 11am would be more convenient. Thus, from Sat 13 January we will begin with Confessions from 10am to 10:55am, followed by holy Mass at 11am.
SAVE THE DATE: Catholic Community Spring Dance. Ceilidh and bring-and-share meal for all the family. Saturday 27th April 2024, 1-7pm. Tickets available from February. Keep an eye on the newsletter for ticketing info.
PREPARATION to the SACRAMENTS:
Please kindly email Chaplaincy Secretary Mrs Rita Carroll (bedford@fssp.org) the full details of candidates for First Holy Communion and/or Confirmation (includes date of birth). Also for Holy Matrimony (if any), and Baptism. Schedules for preparation will be communicated in January.
FSSP UK & Ireland wall 2024 CALENDARS have arrived! Receive your copy after Mass. Free (suggested donation £2).
Altar servers training: Thank you to Francis Ibabu who accepted to be the lay coordinator for ongoing training. Contact Francis or Fr de Malleray for dates for further training for any boys and men interested. Serving is an honour and brings many graces. One can start with just a Low Mass with one server. Everyone under 18 must have a signed parental consent form (ask Rita Carroll).
Parish fundraising Quiz night on Sat 27 January: a Latin Mass team could take part if anyone were available. Contact Rita Carroll.
Epiphany: Attending holy Mass on Sat 6th January for the solemnity of the Epiphany is not an obligation this year. But we invite all to our holy Mass that will take place on the traditional date (Twelfth Night after the Nativity) on Sat 6th Jan in Bedford at 10:00am (confessions from 9:00am to 9:55am), and at 12:30pm at Chesham Bois, followed by two infant baptisms. Epiphany Water is available.
Offertory Collections in Bedford: up to now they were retained by the parish. Increased expenses for two priests in full-time ministry leads to retaining the Offertory collection, as per the Chaplaincy statutes. This will start in January (as has been the case in Chesham Bois for years). The Chaplaincy will of course continue to contribute its fair share to the upkeep of Christ the King Church.
Volunteers needed to count the collection after Mass on Sunday. It should only take about 15 minutes. Two people will be needed each week. Please contact Rita Carroll if you can volunteer.
SPUC White Flower Appeal will take place on Sunday 14th January. There will be a second collection after Mass.
FINANCES: online donations and standing orders are still gratefully received, being also much quicker and easier to process than cash. Thank you in advance for your generosity.
Sort code: 30-80-27 Account number: 44025960
Christmas collections go to the apostolate, not to individual priests. Thank you in advance.
GIFT AID: Increase your donation to the FSSP Chaplaincy by 25% at no further expense to you. Ask Rita for a Gift Aid form, fill it in and hand it back to her. That will help us a lot.
Pray for the sick in our congregations. Email their names for insertions in next bulletins.
HOLY MASS INTENTIONS this week
Sun
07/01
8.30am
The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph (II)
Patrick Burgess RIP (Bedford)
Cassidy
Sun
07/01
12noon
The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph (II)
Chlo. Therese Lehmann-Thap RIP (Chesham)
Kedward
Mon
08/01
10am
Feria (IV)
No Mass (but at Reg. Caeli Acad.)
Tue
09/01
8am
Feria (IV)
Barbara Sadowska – healing
Cassidy
Wed
10/01
8am
Feria (IV)
Michael & Ann O’ Donnell RIP
Chakrabarti
Thu
11/01
8am
Feria (IV)
Gopal Chakrabarti RiP
Chakrabarti
Fri
12/01
8am
Feria (IV)
Private Intention
Harding
Sat
13/01
11am
The Baptism of Our Lord
Priest’s Intention
Guide for Truth-Seeking Christians
by Fr. Ralph Weimann | Foreword by Robert Cardinal SarahSize: 5 x 7 92 pages
ISBN: 978-1-990685-84-2 | $9.95 USD
Available on Amazon, and other international online retailers. You also may order directly from our website. We ship internationally. If you wish to make a large order for an event, please give us 3–4 weeks advance notice. Thank you. Due to the approaching Christmas season please be aware that the books will take a bit longer to receive than normal.
** Please contact us within 90 days if there is a problem with your order when it arrives.
The goal of this book is to provide a guide for all people of good will and to show them the way to Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God. To this end, common criticisms that are levelled against the faith and the Church are examined. Each of these are then countered and addressed based on Sacred Scripture and Tradition. This book is a valuable tool especially for truth seeking Christians and is also useful for every Catholic who wants to be prepared to “explain” his or her faith.
About the Author
FR. RALPH WEIMANN was born in 1976. After studying in the United States, Italy, and Germany, he obtained a diploma in humanities and a bachelor in philosophy, followed by a licentiate in theology. After his ordination to the priesthood, he earned a doctorate in theology in 2010 on the thesis “Dogma and Progress in the Theology of Joseph Ratzinger.” He earned a second doctorate in 2013 on the thesis “Bioethics in a Secularized Society.” He has worked as a military chaplain since 2015. Fr. Weimann lectures at various colleges and universities in Rome, in particular the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum) and the International Online University Domuni. He is the author of Bioethical Challenges at the End of Life: An Ethical Guide in Catholic Perspective (Angelico Press)and the recently published Sacramentals: Their Meaning and Spiritual Use (Sophia Institute Press).
From the GOOD COUNSEL NETWORK:
Dear Pro-Life supporter
We are only a few days into the new year and already hundreds of babies have lost their lives to abortion in this Country. We are reaching out to these mothers with our peaceful, prayerful, Pro-Life daily vigils offering real help near three of the abortion centres in London.
On Friday 12th January, the eve of the 27th anniversary of the founding of The Good Counsel Network, please pray and fast for the end of abortion in this Country. Through God’s grace we have seen thousands of Mothers in our counselling centre continue their pregnancies in very difficult circumstances. Please help us to help save lives with your prayers, fasting and support. Please share on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/events/3486798171630854/
You could donate online using the following details,The Guild of Our Lady of Good Counsel, Account number 13994678 Sort Code 40-06-30. We can also take card donations on the phone, 02077231740.Whether it is £27, £270 or another amount in honour of our 27th anniversary your donation really will help save lives.Some of our supporters who do not use online banking have asked us for a standing order form to set up a regular donation, you can print off the attached form, fill it in and post it back to us if you would like to do this.
At Buckden Towers, High Street, Buckden, St. Neots, Cambs PE19 5TA
Starts Fri 5:00pm; ends Sun 2:00pm
Is God calling ME? Matrimony, celibacy, monastery, seminary, Fraternity?
COME & SEE If you are a single Catholic man between 18 and 30 years of age, come and discern with us near Bedford. Fr Armand de Malleray, FSSP will lead the weekend. There will be talks, prayers, Holy Mass and informal chatting with fellow-guests. Possibility of private meetings with a priest, and of confession. Feel welcome confidentially to call, email or write for any questions. Holy Mass each of the three days.
COST: £95.00 per person in total (bed + full board). FREE for unwaged and students – give whatever amount you can.
BOOKINGS & CONTACT: [not via Facebook] malleray@fssp.org (read by Fr de Malleray only).
ACCESS: Direct train from London St Pancras to St Neots, every half hour, duration 56 minutes.
The nearest towns are Huntingdon (5 miles NNE of Buckden) and St Neots (5 miles South of Buckden). Both Huntingdon and St Neots are served by the West Anglian Great Northern Railway line from King’s Cross London to Peterborough. Let us know if you would need a lift from the railway station. There also are bus and coach links to both Huntingdon and St Neots from many parts of the country.
We have currently six young men from the UK & Ireland in formation at our two international seminaries. Three of our deacons from England were ordained priests at St Mary’s Warrington by Archbishop McMahon, OP of Liverpool. Those were the first EF priestly ordinations by a diocesan bishop in England in fifty years. Please pray for them (www.fssp.org/en/help-us/confraternity-of-saint-peter/) and for many more to enter the lists!
We give thanks for 13 priests ordained from or to the UK over the past 23 years: Fr Armand de Malleray in 2001; Fr Konrad Loewenstein in 2002; Fr Brendan Gerard in 2006; Frs Matthew Goddard and William Barker in 2009; Fr Simon Harkins in 2010; Fr Matthew McCarthy in 2011; Fr Ian Verrier in 2015; Fr James Mawdsley in 2016; Frs Alex Stewart and Krzysztof Sanetra in 2017; Fr Seth Phipps in 2018; Fr Gwilym Evans in 2022; Deacon Miklos Homolya in 2024 (planned) – plus Fr Patrick O’Donohue from Ireland (incardinated in 2023).
On the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, 11 February 2022, Pope Francis signed a decree confirming the liturgical charism of the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter.
Dear Supporter We bring you some good news today – the Nupas abortion centre in Stockport where they are holding a 40 Days for Life Campaign has CLOSED! Volunteers praying there this week received the news from an excited neighbour who himself seemed delighted at the thought of losing the abortuary from his street. Volunteers then went to check the news for themselves by going to the front door and speaking to the office manager. She confirmed the story and said the last abortion had been carried out there on January 25th.They assured her they would pray for her to find work elsewhere for which she thanked them. In 2020 the local authorities brought in a PSPO (Public Space Protection Order) around MSI abortion centre in Manchester in an attempt to prevent 40 Days for Life pro-lifers offering help and praying there but volunteers simply moved to another centre in Stockport, the Nupas Centre and offered help there instead. John Marechal who lead the 40 Days for Life campaign in Manchester for almost 10 years died last year aged 89. Around 100 babies were saved from abortion in that time thanks to the grace of God and the amazing volunteers who persisted in these challenging circumstances. John was a big supporter of March for Life UK and would buy group bookings of train tickets to help those around him attend the event in London. He would have been delighted at this incredible news. We unite with pro-lifers in Stockport, Manchester, especially those who continued the legacy of John in working to end abortion – despite it being Lent we hope you celebrate seeing what you have been praying would happen for so long! 
