Parish News: The Presentation of the Lord (Candlemas)

This Sunday it is the feast of the Presentation of the Lord in the Temple; forty days after his birth, Jesus is brought to the Temple by Mary and Joseph. It is not only a fulfilment of law and custom, but a fulfilment of ancient prophecy. It is this child, Jesus the Christ, who will bring ‘light to the Gentiles’ and ‘glory to his people, Israel.’

St Benet’s is self supporting: we receive no regular central church or government funding, so you can donate using card online to support St Benet’s: and every penny really does count! You can also donate by cash or card in person, by texting BENET followed by your donation amount to 70450 to give that amount. Or why not set up a regular standing order with your bank?

The readings for this Sunday are available here.

Please pray for:
The sick and those in need
Brenda, Reece, Victoria, John and Chinye.

The Faithful departed
The recently departed, all who have worshipped in and served at Saint Benet’s and those whose year’s mind falls about this time, amongst them Robert Bunting (2nd). 

Wine Tasting: ‘Wines of Lebanon’ Thursday 13th February 7pm
Lebanon has a rich Christian history and a fine wine tradition. Our parish ordinand, Georges Iskandar, who has Lebanese heritage, will help us to learn about this under-appreciated wine region as we taste 4 wines, including 2 from the famous Chateau Musar. Lebanese nibbles included. All proceeds will go to support Christians in Lebanon. 
Tickets £30 per person. Book online here: https://bit.ly/40167Il or by cash or card at church.

Pilgrimage to Lourdes
The Society of Mary is organising a pilgrimage to Lourdes from Mon 18th to Fri 22nd August 2025. Flights to and from Heathrow. A wonderful few days where we worship together as a group and take part in the liturgical life of the Sanctuary. Excursions to enjoy the beautiful local area included. Staying in the excellent and well-situated Eliseo Hotel. Prices full board.

Those aged 12-18 stay at the Youth Village and are subsidised by the Society so it costs only £100. The adult price is £765 plus a single room supplement of £140 if desired.

Booking at: https://www.tangney-tours.com/tours-and-pilgrimages/society-of-mary/departures/

The cover art is is Presentazione di Gesù al tempio by Ambrogio Lorenzetti (1285 – 1348). Held in the Uffizi, Florence.