Parish News: The 5th Sunday and Week of the Year

When Jesus finds Simon, James and John, they are going about their ordinary business, fishing. In a memorable turn of phrase he calls them from this toil which sustains life for those around them to a work that will bring life to all: ‘Follow me and I will make you fishers of men.’

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 Eileen Palmer (10th), Geoffrey Smith (11th), Iain Young, Pr. (13th) and William Poolton (14th).. 

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.

Ash Wednesday is on the 5th of March this year; it is the beginning of Lent and a day when all Christians should go to mass. Said mass at 8.30am and 12noon and sung mass with choir at 7pm, all with imposition of ashes.

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 a modern icon of The Miraculous Catch of Fish, artist and date unknown.