A Time of Grace

17 March 2009

The relics of St Thérèse of Lisieux will be coming to our diocese in September.  To help parishes and local Catholic communities to prepare stunning posters have been sent to all parish priests.

The relics of St Thérèse of Lisieux visit two churches in our diocese and the parish priests of the host parishes have written to their brother priests in preparation for the important occasion in the life of the Catholic Church in the West of England. 

Canon John Cunningham and Father Tom Finnegan’s letter enclosed posters to help priests make news of the visit known in their parish. 

Canon John and Father Tom wrote: “The visit is part of a national tour and it is significant that the Clifton Diocese hosts the relics on two occasions”

The schedule of the visits is detailed below:

St Teresa of Lisieux, Eastwick Road, Taunton TA2 7HF
3.30 pm Friday 18 September to 10.30 am Saturday 19 September
Contact: Canon John Cunningham 01823 272700

St Teresa of the Child Jesus, Gloucester Road North, Filton, Bristol BS34 7PL
2.00 pm Wednesday 23 September to 10.00 am Thursday 24 September
Contact: Father Tom Finnegan 0117 983 3938

Canon John and Father Tom also wrote: “On these special occasions in the life of our diocese the relics of St Thérèse will be welcomed with a special liturgy.  The welcome will be followed by the opportunity for private veneration and reconciliation. Everyone is welcome to be part of the visits, particularly those away from the Church, young people, and those suffering with an illness.

“We expect many people will take the opportunity to venerate and pray before the relics. It is important we know if you and your parish are organising a journey.  This enables us, as hosts, to ensure all visits are undertaken in a respectful and dignified manner and to make sure we can best welcome all those wishing to be present.”

Parish Priests should contact Ronnie Mitchinson at Clifton Diocese Department for Adult Education and Evangelisation when organising their visits. 

More information about the visits can be obtained a special website set up by the Catholic Communications Network for the visit - catholicrelics.co.uk.  Father Michael McAndrew Director of our Department for Adult Education and Evangelisation can also be contacted for more details.

As we look forward to the visits cliftondiocese.com will bring you a series of podcasts where we will meet people with a special affinity with St Thérèse of Lisieux.

Canon John and Father Tom concluded their letter by writing: “We look forward to welcoming you and your community.  Let us pray that the visit helps to bring renewal and spiritual gifts to all assisted by the prayers of St Thérèse of Lisieux.”