The Papal Visit 

Bishop Kieran has invited the whole diocese to take part in the visit in one way or another. He says:

Pope Benedict is not as widely travelled as his predecessor, John Paul II. We are very privileged in this country, therefore, that Pope Benedict has chosen to come here in September to beatify Cardinal Newman – even that is unusual, that the Pope would preside at a beatification ceremony.

The Church and the Pope have been through turbulent times recently, and this is a wonderful opportunity for Catholics here to express their support for the head of the Church on earth. We will have few opportunities, as he is here for a very short time, and the public events will be very limited.

“I do hope that many of you will be able to get to either events in London or in Coventry” .

I am sure that, despite the threats of protests from various people, the visit of our Holy Father to our Catholic and Christian community will be a significant moment and a time of great encouragement for us all. Even if you can’t get to one of the events, I hope that you will be part of this important moment through the other opportunities offered. I am very grateful to all who are working to bring this visit closer to our heart and minds.

+ Kieran Conry

For full information on the visit go to www.thepapalvisit.org.uk

For the full itinerary of the visit - click here

HYDE PARK (Saturday 18th September) and COFTON PARK, BIRMINGHAM (Sunday, 19th September)

John Henry Cardinal Newman will be beatified by Pope Benedict XVI in the Archdiocese of Birmingham on 19 September 2010.

On Saturday 18th September, Pope Benedict will celebrate Mass in Westminster Cathedral where he will also, from there, greet the people of Wales.

Later in the day he will visit a home for older people, giving the Pope an opportunity to go to those who cannot meet with him, and then be present at an open air Vigil of prayer in London's Hyde Park.

A number of parishioners will be representing the Sacred Heart Parish at each venue.

Each "pilgrim" has now been now been notified and there will be a preliminary briefing meeting with Fr. Kieran on the 9th September in the Old Hall.

The Group will be presented to the Parish by Fr. Kieran at the 10.30 am Mass on 12th September.

		Official Prayer of Preparation God of truth and love, your Son, Jesus Christ, stands as the light to all who seek you with a sincere heart. As we strive with your grace to be faithful in word and deed, may we reflect the kindly light of Christ and offer a witness of hope and peace to all. We pray for Pope Benedict and look forward with joy to his forthcoming visit to our countries. May he be a witness to the unity and hope which is your will for all people. We make our prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen. ___ Our Lady, Mother of the Church — pray for us. St Andrew — pray for us. St George — pray for us. St David — pray for us.