THE COUNTDOWN:

I am very conscious that we have only two weeks before Christmas and that there remains much to be done. I hope that we can balance all the practical preparations with the Church’s annual invitation to attend to our spiritual well-being and ensure that the Lord will indeed be welcomed into our homes and hearts with renewed fervour. Traditionally, Catholics prepared for the great Feasts by receiving absolution for their sins and it is not that long ago that I would anticipate hours and hours in the confessional on days like Christmas Eve. My concern in those days was that I simply became an absolution machine. I like to think that our Reconciliation Services offer a balanced approach in today’s Church. 

For those who wish to spend a little time with the priest, we will have confrères in the confessionals. For those who do not feel that is necessary, Fr Andrew and I can ensure that you are not queueing for hours!