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ST JOSEPH'S PARISH DORKING
You are very welcome!
Thank you for taking the time to visit our parish website. We are a very active Catholic community, seeking to share the gospel values as revealed to us by our saviour Jesus Christ. If you find yourself in the area, please do call in and celebrate Holy Mass with us. Our parish priest, Canon John Griffiths is very keen to meet with visitors to the parish.
You are very welcome!
St Joseph's is the Catholic Parish Church for Dorking and surrounding villages in the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton. We are an active welcoming community, offering spiritual and pastoral support for everyone, helping each other to grow in knowledge and love of our Catholic faith. We hope that you find the information on our Parish and its activities useful.
Our latest parish weekly news, notices and events below
Download the parish Newsletter Here
By Webmaster
•
March 30, 2025
ROSARY CIRCLE FOR PRIESTLY VOCATIONS:- If you haven’t already done so, but would still like to commit to praying a decade of the Rosary each day during February, then please do put your initial or a tick in one of the boxes on the ‘Rosary Circle’ chart in the church porch. Our thanks to all those who have ‘signed up’ already to be part of the ‘Rosary Circles’. So as to keep this spiritual exercise in our minds and hearts, the first Sunday of each month is a ‘sign up’ weekend, when people can recommit to this by 'signing up again' or indeed take up this prayerful activity. Let it be said, however, that anyone can join the Rosary Circles at any time, so, even if you haven’t done so thus far, please be encouraged to do so. Details of how to be involved are on the notice in the church porch. PLEASE BE PART OF A ROSARY CIRCLE PRAYING FOR PRIESTLY VOCATIONS FROM THE PARISH! Thank you. Prayer for vocations to the Priesthood: ( Dropped in through the presbytery letter box, so a ‘thankyou’ to the courier) God our Father, look in love upon our homes, our families and our communities. Raise up from amongst us worthy priests to preach the Gospel to all people, to minister at your altar and care for your flock. Fill us with your Holy Spirit and make us faithful and inspiring witnesses to your Kingdom. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
By Webmaster
•
March 30, 2025
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION: The programmes continue this Tuesday and Thursday respectively. For the older children, Year 5 and above, the meeting will be on Tuesday at 4.15 in the small hall and last about 1 hour. Confirmation Programme: Continues this Thursday at 6 pm.
By Webmaster
•
March 30, 2025
From RIGHT TO LIFE: Assisted Dying Bill: The Committee of MPs responsible for scrutinising Kim Leadbeater’s assisted suicide Bill completed its final session. The Bill’s sponsor, Kim Leadbeater, promised meaningful scrutiny at Committee Stage and claimed her Bill would have the “strictest safeguards anywhere in the world”. Unfortunately, proceedings at Committee Stage have shown these promises to have been hollow. Well over 300 amendments that sought to strengthen safeguards in the Bill and that would have protected vulnerable groups were rejected by Kim Leadbeater and other Bill supporters. This included rejecting amendments that would have: Explicitly protected people with Down’s syndrome, autism and learning difficulties under the Bill. Prevented doctors from raising assisted suicide with patients unprompted, including children under the age of 18. Prohibited assisted suicide in cases where a person has been encouraged or manipulated into a request or where a request has been made under “undue influence”, putting the victims of domestic abuse at risk. These are just some examples of the over 300 amendments that Leadbeater and other Bill supporters rejected. This decision to reject these amendments, which would have strengthened safeguards in the Bill and protected vulnerable groups, was an intentional choice, revealing a deliberate preference for a loose Bill, allowing for future expansion - something I am sure you are aware has happened with similar laws overseas. The Times printed a very strong editorial that highlights the serious problems with the Bill. It calls on MPs to “kill this bill”. TAKE ACTION It’s vital that MPs are aware of these serious problems with how Kim Leadbeater and her allies have conducted Committee Stage of the Bill and the rejection of over 300 amendments. It’s also really important that they know that you, as a constituent, are very concerned about this and that they must vote against the Bill at Third Reading. Right to Life have launched an easy-to-use tool that makes it simple to email your local MP on this new important development. Even if you have already emailed your MP asking them to oppose this Bill, it’s really important that you email them again with this new information, which we need to get in front of MPs now. Please take action and click the button below to contact your MP now . It only takes 30 seconds. ----------------------------------- Previous News : Assisted Dying Bill:- Media reports suggest that the Cross Party Select Committee for the ‘Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill’ have extensively consulted with apparent witnesses or experts who favour assisted dying, having little consultation with any who might oppose the Bill. According to Alithea Williams, from SPUC, amongst the experts, an American doctor, and advocate of assisted suicide, “suggested that being a “burden” was enough reason to die. One doctor even said that it should be a "felony" for loved ones to “interfere with a patient’s right to make this choice”.” (see:-Pro-life advocates in UK say assisted suicide Bill ‘protections’ already being lowered | Crux ) When the Bill was tabled for a vote in Nov 2024, paragraph 12 of the Bill made very clear that a High Court Judge was to ensure that in each situation due diligence and the Law was to be followed and that the Law be adhered to; see section 12 (5) to (11) of the Bill at: Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. Reports suggest that this judicial element, scrutiny by a High Court Judge could be lost. Many of the assurances which were initially given that the UK Law on ‘assisted dying’ would be the strictest in the world are fast eroding, which should be cause for grave concern – particularly with a view to 50 or 60 years hence and your great, great grandchildren who will be making decisions about anyone who is presently 10 to 25 years of age. If such a Bill becomes Law at this time, there is little hope for anyone in the not so distant future. To counter this culture of death and to promote a gospel of life, please support the petition from SPUC at YES to our hospices, NO to assisted suicide – SPUC (it is what it states) asking the Government to do more to support the hospice movement and the work done by everyone involved in palliative care. Again, to encourage you to write to your MP at the House of Commons, asking them to oppose the Assisted Dying Bill and to support funding etc for the hospice movement. The MP for Dorking and Horley is Chris Coughlan (Lib Dem)
By Webmaster
•
March 30, 2025
“Missio” Red Boxes: Those bits of small change which you put into the box, when combined with all the others, makes a real difference to the life of the Church in poorer parts of the world; your simple financial support in this way, makes you a missionary, even if you never set foot outside your home. So, thank you for the support you give you give to Missio. If would like one in your home to support the work of the Missions, please text Louis McCulloch on 07770 802830.” If, for some reason, you have a Red Box in your home but it’s not used (perhaps you’ve ‘inherited it’) do bring it along to the church sacristy, putting some contact details on it so that Louise can update the records. Many thanks
By Webmaster
•
March 30, 2025
From RIGHT TO LIFE: Assisted Dying Bill: The Committee of MPs responsible for scrutinising Kim Leadbeater’s assisted suicide Bill completed its final session. The Bill’s sponsor, Kim Leadbeater, promised meaningful scrutiny at Committee Stage and claimed her Bill would have the “strictest safeguards anywhere in the world”. Unfortunately, proceedings at Committee Stage have shown these promises to have been hollow. Well over 300 amendments that sought to strengthen safeguards in the Bill and that would have protected vulnerable groups were rejected by Kim Leadbeater and other Bill supporters. This included rejecting amendments that would have: Explicitly protected people with Down’s syndrome, autism and learning difficulties under the Bill. Prevented doctors from raising assisted suicide with patients unprompted, including children under the age of 18. Prohibited assisted suicide in cases where a person has been encouraged or manipulated into a request or where a request has been made under “undue influence”, putting the victims of domestic abuse at risk. These are just some examples of the over 300 amendments that Leadbeater and other Bill supporters rejected. This decision to reject these amendments, which would have strengthened safeguards in the Bill and protected vulnerable groups, was an intentional choice, revealing a deliberate preference for a loose Bill, allowing for future expansion - something I am sure you are aware has happened with similar laws overseas. The Times printed a very strong editorial that highlights the serious problems with the Bill. It calls on MPs to “kill this bill”. TAKE ACTION It’s vital that MPs are aware of these serious problems with how Kim Leadbeater and her allies have conducted Committee Stage of the Bill and the rejection of over 300 amendments. It’s also really important that they know that you, as a constituent, are very concerned about this and that they must vote against the Bill at Third Reading. Right to Life have launched an easy-to-use tool that makes it simple to email your local MP on this new important development. Even if you have already emailed your MP asking them to oppose this Bill, it’s really important that you email them again with this new information, which we need to get in front of MPs now. Please take action and click the button below to contact your MP now . It only takes 30 seconds. ----------------------------------- Previous News : Assisted Dying Bill:- Media reports suggest that the Cross Party Select Committee for the ‘Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill’ have extensively consulted with apparent witnesses or experts who favour assisted dying, having little consultation with any who might oppose the Bill. According to Alithea Williams, from SPUC, amongst the experts, an American doctor, and advocate of assisted suicide, “suggested that being a “burden” was enough reason to die. One doctor even said that it should be a "felony" for loved ones to “interfere with a patient’s right to make this choice”.” (see:-Pro-life advocates in UK say assisted suicide Bill ‘protections’ already being lowered | Crux ) When the Bill was tabled for a vote in Nov 2024, paragraph 12 of the Bill made very clear that a High Court Judge was to ensure that in each situation due diligence and the Law was to be followed and that the Law be adhered to; see section 12 (5) to (11) of the Bill at: Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. Reports suggest that this judicial element, scrutiny by a High Court Judge could be lost. Many of the assurances which were initially given that the UK Law on ‘assisted dying’ would be the strictest in the world are fast eroding, which should be cause for grave concern – particularly with a view to 50 or 60 years hence and your great, great grandchildren who will be making decisions about anyone who is presently 10 to 25 years of age. If such a Bill becomes Law at this time, there is little hope for anyone in the not so distant future. To counter this culture of death and to promote a gospel of life, please support the petition from SPUC at YES to our hospices, NO to assisted suicide – SPUC (it is what it states) asking the Government to do more to support the hospice movement and the work done by everyone involved in palliative care. Again, to encourage you to write to your MP at the House of Commons, asking them to oppose the Assisted Dying Bill and to support funding etc for the hospice movement. The MP for Dorking and Horley is Chris Coughlan (Lib Dem)
By Webmaster
•
March 30, 2025
GOOD FRIDAY COLLECTION:- We take the opportunity to remind you that on Good Friday there is a collection for the Holy Places in the Holy Land; this collection helps the missionary work of the Franciscans, supporting the upkeep of the holy sites, for which they are responsible as well as the schools, hospitals and other endeavours. EASTER OFFERING A reminder also that the collection at the Easter Vigil and on Easter Sunday is your personal offering to Fr. Ian. PLEASE NOTE that if you usually contribute by some kind of internal bank transfer, BACS / standing order etc. but you wish to make a personal offering, then you will have to stipulate to your bank that any such offering to Fr. Ian should be annotated accordingly; if offerings are not annotated as such, then they will go into the general parish funds, rather than to Fr. Ian! The Easter Offering, along with the Christmas Day Offering, are the major source of personal income for the whole year for the diocesan priest in Arundel and Brighton, so we ask you to be as generous as you can. ‘Easter Offering’ envelopes will be available at the church entrances and given the varied manner of financial transactions, the ‘Easter Offering’ envelopes are possibly the least ambiguous manner of offering. Many thanks.
By Webmaster
•
March 18, 2025
Deanery news! The next edition of the Deanery newsletter is below and includes a report on recent events and discussions, information on forthcoming events around the Deanery, clergy biographies, and more. Lent Reconciliation Service: Bishop Richard is visiting each Deanery to celebrate Reconciliation Services and will be coming to the Epsom Deanery on Tuesday 25th March, 7pm, at St Michael’s, Ashtead. In the first Epsom Deanery Newsletter last Autumn, I wrote about the initial steps we were taking in response to Bishop Richard’s Call to Mission, as we committed ourselves to putting his Pastoral Plan into effect in this area. In this issue, you can read about some of the meetings that have happened, some actions that are taking place in the coming weeks and months, and about plans that are beginning to form for the longer term; and, most importantly, about how each person can get involved. Please view the full newsletter below:
By Webmaster
•
March 16, 2025
Government coffers, welfare reform, fertility rates, 57 years on and the Assisted Dying Bill: The domestic headlines this week indicate there is not enough money in the Central Government coffers, without mention of local authorities, council tax, bin collections and the potholes in the roads! Consequently, welfare reform has been announced so that available funds can be more prudently spent. The funds are not there because of increased cost / overheads, an ageing population, creating increased demands and therefore, cost, on the NHS. Fertility rates are at the lowest levels ever, (not least of all, because of housing costs). As the fertility rates become lower the working population will become smaller, so there will be fewer tax payers and therefore even less money going into Government coffers while cost continue to rise. (Consider China’s so called ‘one child policy’, the politics may be different but the impact will be the same.) Since the Abortion Act came in to force in the 1960’s with its ‘safeguard’ of 2 medical practitioners allowing for a pregnancy to be ‘terminated’ have been eroded (Evidenced by being able to purchase the ‘morning after pill’ via the internet; one high street supplier, at least, indicating ‘for future use’ so, hardly ‘emergency’). Given the erosion of such ‘safeguards’ over 57 years in that arena, what of 57 years hence and the future with the ‘Assisted Dying Bill’? If, as has been spoken about, the judiciary is not in place to oversee that due, correct and legal process is adhered to by all concerned, but rather anonymous ‘experts’ (whose dispositions of mind and heart may not be known) and whose subjective involvement in each ‘case of assistance’ might obscure their oversight, what reassurances will there be in another 50 years that those who are regarded as a ‘burden’ or who see themselves as such, against involuntary euthanasia? If there is an ever-diminishing economic situation with ever rising costs and an on-going erosion of any sense of human dignity, the Bill cannot be seen to guarantee to provide against involuntary euthanasia some 50 years hence. Consider also, the number of high-profile cases, whereby, for whatever reasons, ‘officialdom’ has seen a catastrophic failure in the ‘duty of care’. Such high-profile cases point to the fact that a single High Court Judge, retired or otherwise, will not have the capacity to head up a commission to oversee every case of ‘assisted dying’ which is offered up by a plethora of local authorities and its team of “experts”. An article in Saturday’s ‘Telegraph’ by Ollie Corfe, quoting Liz Emerson, of the ‘Intergenerational Foundation’, helps to illustrate concerns about how economics will impact on the ‘Assisted Dying Bill’ should it become law: “Older generations’ wilful disregard for the very real economic plight experienced by younger generations may be driving these intergenerational tensions. “In the 1970s, a home could be bought with a mortgage around three times a person’s annual income. Today’s house prices demand seven times annual incomes outside London and twelve times income in the capital.” (See: The ‘uncomfortable truth’ behind wealth-hoarding boomers )
Fr. Ian Prayer requests: Please remember those who are sick in your daily prayers: please pray for our recently bereaved - List Here
By Webmaster
•
March 30, 2025
ROSARY CIRCLE FOR PRIESTLY VOCATIONS:- If you haven’t already done so, but would still like to commit to praying a decade of the Rosary each day during February, then please do put your initial or a tick in one of the boxes on the ‘Rosary Circle’ chart in the church porch. Our thanks to all those who have ‘signed up’ already to be part of the ‘Rosary Circles’. So as to keep this spiritual exercise in our minds and hearts, the first Sunday of each month is a ‘sign up’ weekend, when people can recommit to this by 'signing up again' or indeed take up this prayerful activity. Let it be said, however, that anyone can join the Rosary Circles at any time, so, even if you haven’t done so thus far, please be encouraged to do so. Details of how to be involved are on the notice in the church porch. PLEASE BE PART OF A ROSARY CIRCLE PRAYING FOR PRIESTLY VOCATIONS FROM THE PARISH! Thank you. Prayer for vocations to the Priesthood: ( Dropped in through the presbytery letter box, so a ‘thankyou’ to the courier) God our Father, look in love upon our homes, our families and our communities. Raise up from amongst us worthy priests to preach the Gospel to all people, to minister at your altar and care for your flock. Fill us with your Holy Spirit and make us faithful and inspiring witnesses to your Kingdom. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
By Webmaster
•
March 30, 2025
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION: The programmes continue this Tuesday and Thursday respectively. For the older children, Year 5 and above, the meeting will be on Tuesday at 4.15 in the small hall and last about 1 hour. Confirmation Programme: Continues this Thursday at 6 pm.
By Webmaster
•
March 30, 2025
From RIGHT TO LIFE: Assisted Dying Bill: The Committee of MPs responsible for scrutinising Kim Leadbeater’s assisted suicide Bill completed its final session. The Bill’s sponsor, Kim Leadbeater, promised meaningful scrutiny at Committee Stage and claimed her Bill would have the “strictest safeguards anywhere in the world”. Unfortunately, proceedings at Committee Stage have shown these promises to have been hollow. Well over 300 amendments that sought to strengthen safeguards in the Bill and that would have protected vulnerable groups were rejected by Kim Leadbeater and other Bill supporters. This included rejecting amendments that would have: Explicitly protected people with Down’s syndrome, autism and learning difficulties under the Bill. Prevented doctors from raising assisted suicide with patients unprompted, including children under the age of 18. Prohibited assisted suicide in cases where a person has been encouraged or manipulated into a request or where a request has been made under “undue influence”, putting the victims of domestic abuse at risk. These are just some examples of the over 300 amendments that Leadbeater and other Bill supporters rejected. This decision to reject these amendments, which would have strengthened safeguards in the Bill and protected vulnerable groups, was an intentional choice, revealing a deliberate preference for a loose Bill, allowing for future expansion - something I am sure you are aware has happened with similar laws overseas. The Times printed a very strong editorial that highlights the serious problems with the Bill. It calls on MPs to “kill this bill”. TAKE ACTION It’s vital that MPs are aware of these serious problems with how Kim Leadbeater and her allies have conducted Committee Stage of the Bill and the rejection of over 300 amendments. It’s also really important that they know that you, as a constituent, are very concerned about this and that they must vote against the Bill at Third Reading. Right to Life have launched an easy-to-use tool that makes it simple to email your local MP on this new important development. Even if you have already emailed your MP asking them to oppose this Bill, it’s really important that you email them again with this new information, which we need to get in front of MPs now. Please take action and click the button below to contact your MP now . It only takes 30 seconds. ----------------------------------- Previous News : Assisted Dying Bill:- Media reports suggest that the Cross Party Select Committee for the ‘Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill’ have extensively consulted with apparent witnesses or experts who favour assisted dying, having little consultation with any who might oppose the Bill. According to Alithea Williams, from SPUC, amongst the experts, an American doctor, and advocate of assisted suicide, “suggested that being a “burden” was enough reason to die. One doctor even said that it should be a "felony" for loved ones to “interfere with a patient’s right to make this choice”.” (see:-Pro-life advocates in UK say assisted suicide Bill ‘protections’ already being lowered | Crux ) When the Bill was tabled for a vote in Nov 2024, paragraph 12 of the Bill made very clear that a High Court Judge was to ensure that in each situation due diligence and the Law was to be followed and that the Law be adhered to; see section 12 (5) to (11) of the Bill at: Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. Reports suggest that this judicial element, scrutiny by a High Court Judge could be lost. Many of the assurances which were initially given that the UK Law on ‘assisted dying’ would be the strictest in the world are fast eroding, which should be cause for grave concern – particularly with a view to 50 or 60 years hence and your great, great grandchildren who will be making decisions about anyone who is presently 10 to 25 years of age. If such a Bill becomes Law at this time, there is little hope for anyone in the not so distant future. To counter this culture of death and to promote a gospel of life, please support the petition from SPUC at YES to our hospices, NO to assisted suicide – SPUC (it is what it states) asking the Government to do more to support the hospice movement and the work done by everyone involved in palliative care. Again, to encourage you to write to your MP at the House of Commons, asking them to oppose the Assisted Dying Bill and to support funding etc for the hospice movement. The MP for Dorking and Horley is Chris Coughlan (Lib Dem)
By Webmaster
•
March 30, 2025
GOOD FRIDAY COLLECTION:- We take the opportunity to remind you that on Good Friday there is a collection for the Holy Places in the Holy Land; this collection helps the missionary work of the Franciscans, supporting the upkeep of the holy sites, for which they are responsible as well as the schools, hospitals and other endeavours. EASTER OFFERING A reminder also that the collection at the Easter Vigil and on Easter Sunday is your personal offering to Fr. Ian. PLEASE NOTE that if you usually contribute by some kind of internal bank transfer, BACS / standing order etc. but you wish to make a personal offering, then you will have to stipulate to your bank that any such offering to Fr. Ian should be annotated accordingly; if offerings are not annotated as such, then they will go into the general parish funds, rather than to Fr. Ian! The Easter Offering, along with the Christmas Day Offering, are the major source of personal income for the whole year for the diocesan priest in Arundel and Brighton, so we ask you to be as generous as you can. ‘Easter Offering’ envelopes will be available at the church entrances and given the varied manner of financial transactions, the ‘Easter Offering’ envelopes are possibly the least ambiguous manner of offering. Many thanks.
Ministries
We welcome all new and existing parishioners - become involved with the ministries.
Prayer Groups
Our prayer groups support parish activities.. Check our events calendar for more information.
Social Groups
Keeping our parishioners engaged with social activities is very important to us. Come and join us!
Becoming a Catholic
Are you new to the Catholic faith? Want to know more about why we beleive the things we do?
Reaching Out
We've stepped out and are responding to the needs of our wider community. We find this work so rewarding!
Fun for Children
Excellent activities to engage the children .We hope you find them useful.
You are very welcome!
St Joseph's is the Catholic Parish Church for Dorking and surrounding villages in the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton. We are an active welcoming community, offering spiritual and pastoral support for everyone, helping each other to grow in knowledge and love of our Catholic faith. We hope that you find the information on our Parish and its activities useful.
Our Parish Mission Statement
Together with our Priest, we are united in our Catholic faith.
We pray to the Holy Spirit to guide us in our service of God and our
service of each other.
As a parish we strive to be a warm, welcoming and forward looking community.
If there is anything else you would like to know please do not hesitate to contact us via the Parish Office on 01306 882433 or email us
Please check the current newsletter for any changes to mass times
By Webmaster
•
March 30, 2025
“Missio” Red Boxes: Those bits of small change which you put into the box, when combined with all the others, makes a real difference to the life of the Church in poorer parts of the world; your simple financial support in this way, makes you a missionary, even if you never set foot outside your home. So, thank you for the support you give you give to Missio. If would like one in your home to support the work of the Missions, please text Louis McCulloch on 07770 802830.” If, for some reason, you have a Red Box in your home but it’s not used (perhaps you’ve ‘inherited it’) do bring it along to the church sacristy, putting some contact details on it so that Louise can update the records. Many thanks
By Webmaster
•
March 30, 2025
From RIGHT TO LIFE: Assisted Dying Bill: The Committee of MPs responsible for scrutinising Kim Leadbeater’s assisted suicide Bill completed its final session. The Bill’s sponsor, Kim Leadbeater, promised meaningful scrutiny at Committee Stage and claimed her Bill would have the “strictest safeguards anywhere in the world”. Unfortunately, proceedings at Committee Stage have shown these promises to have been hollow. Well over 300 amendments that sought to strengthen safeguards in the Bill and that would have protected vulnerable groups were rejected by Kim Leadbeater and other Bill supporters. This included rejecting amendments that would have: Explicitly protected people with Down’s syndrome, autism and learning difficulties under the Bill. Prevented doctors from raising assisted suicide with patients unprompted, including children under the age of 18. Prohibited assisted suicide in cases where a person has been encouraged or manipulated into a request or where a request has been made under “undue influence”, putting the victims of domestic abuse at risk. These are just some examples of the over 300 amendments that Leadbeater and other Bill supporters rejected. This decision to reject these amendments, which would have strengthened safeguards in the Bill and protected vulnerable groups, was an intentional choice, revealing a deliberate preference for a loose Bill, allowing for future expansion - something I am sure you are aware has happened with similar laws overseas. The Times printed a very strong editorial that highlights the serious problems with the Bill. It calls on MPs to “kill this bill”. TAKE ACTION It’s vital that MPs are aware of these serious problems with how Kim Leadbeater and her allies have conducted Committee Stage of the Bill and the rejection of over 300 amendments. It’s also really important that they know that you, as a constituent, are very concerned about this and that they must vote against the Bill at Third Reading. Right to Life have launched an easy-to-use tool that makes it simple to email your local MP on this new important development. Even if you have already emailed your MP asking them to oppose this Bill, it’s really important that you email them again with this new information, which we need to get in front of MPs now. Please take action and click the button below to contact your MP now . It only takes 30 seconds. ----------------------------------- Previous News : Assisted Dying Bill:- Media reports suggest that the Cross Party Select Committee for the ‘Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill’ have extensively consulted with apparent witnesses or experts who favour assisted dying, having little consultation with any who might oppose the Bill. According to Alithea Williams, from SPUC, amongst the experts, an American doctor, and advocate of assisted suicide, “suggested that being a “burden” was enough reason to die. One doctor even said that it should be a "felony" for loved ones to “interfere with a patient’s right to make this choice”.” (see:-Pro-life advocates in UK say assisted suicide Bill ‘protections’ already being lowered | Crux ) When the Bill was tabled for a vote in Nov 2024, paragraph 12 of the Bill made very clear that a High Court Judge was to ensure that in each situation due diligence and the Law was to be followed and that the Law be adhered to; see section 12 (5) to (11) of the Bill at: Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. Reports suggest that this judicial element, scrutiny by a High Court Judge could be lost. Many of the assurances which were initially given that the UK Law on ‘assisted dying’ would be the strictest in the world are fast eroding, which should be cause for grave concern – particularly with a view to 50 or 60 years hence and your great, great grandchildren who will be making decisions about anyone who is presently 10 to 25 years of age. If such a Bill becomes Law at this time, there is little hope for anyone in the not so distant future. To counter this culture of death and to promote a gospel of life, please support the petition from SPUC at YES to our hospices, NO to assisted suicide – SPUC (it is what it states) asking the Government to do more to support the hospice movement and the work done by everyone involved in palliative care. Again, to encourage you to write to your MP at the House of Commons, asking them to oppose the Assisted Dying Bill and to support funding etc for the hospice movement. The MP for Dorking and Horley is Chris Coughlan (Lib Dem)
By Webmaster
•
March 30, 2025
GOOD FRIDAY COLLECTION:- We take the opportunity to remind you that on Good Friday there is a collection for the Holy Places in the Holy Land; this collection helps the missionary work of the Franciscans, supporting the upkeep of the holy sites, for which they are responsible as well as the schools, hospitals and other endeavours. EASTER OFFERING A reminder also that the collection at the Easter Vigil and on Easter Sunday is your personal offering to Fr. Ian. PLEASE NOTE that if you usually contribute by some kind of internal bank transfer, BACS / standing order etc. but you wish to make a personal offering, then you will have to stipulate to your bank that any such offering to Fr. Ian should be annotated accordingly; if offerings are not annotated as such, then they will go into the general parish funds, rather than to Fr. Ian! The Easter Offering, along with the Christmas Day Offering, are the major source of personal income for the whole year for the diocesan priest in Arundel and Brighton, so we ask you to be as generous as you can. ‘Easter Offering’ envelopes will be available at the church entrances and given the varied manner of financial transactions, the ‘Easter Offering’ envelopes are possibly the least ambiguous manner of offering. Many thanks.
An Act of Spiritual Communion
My Jesus, I believe that You are present in the Most Holy Sacrament.
I love You above all things, and I desire to receive You into my soul.
Since I cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally,
come at least spiritually into my heart.
I embrace You as if You were already there and unite myself wholly to You. Never permit me to be separated from You.
Amen.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation / Confession
Available after the Saturday morning Mass and from 5.15 to 5.45 Saturday afternoon.
Each Saturday Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament & the Rosary follow on from Mass until 11.00am.
Saint Ignatius Loyola
Pray as if everything depends on God, and work as if everything depends on you
PARISH MUSIC MINISTRY
Our Music Ministry team include talented singers and and musicians . If you have a passion for music, find out how you can get involved
Our latest parish weekly news, notices and events
Keep informed about parish activities on a week by week basis. Our important activities can be seen featured below, and found on our Parish Newsletter - available online here, or in print at the back of the church.
Fr. Ian's Prayer requests:
Please remember those who are sick in your daily prayers:
If you would like to add someone to the list, please email the parish office through this link or email the parish direct (on the newsletter) - Also, please pray for our recently deceased - List Here
New Paragraph
By Webmaster
•
March 30, 2025
“Missio” Red Boxes: Those bits of small change which you put into the box, when combined with all the others, makes a real difference to the life of the Church in poorer parts of the world; your simple financial support in this way, makes you a missionary, even if you never set foot outside your home. So, thank you for the support you give you give to Missio. If would like one in your home to support the work of the Missions, please text Louis McCulloch on 07770 802830.” If, for some reason, you have a Red Box in your home but it’s not used (perhaps you’ve ‘inherited it’) do bring it along to the church sacristy, putting some contact details on it so that Louise can update the records. Many thanks
By Webmaster
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March 30, 2025
From RIGHT TO LIFE: Assisted Dying Bill: The Committee of MPs responsible for scrutinising Kim Leadbeater’s assisted suicide Bill completed its final session. The Bill’s sponsor, Kim Leadbeater, promised meaningful scrutiny at Committee Stage and claimed her Bill would have the “strictest safeguards anywhere in the world”. Unfortunately, proceedings at Committee Stage have shown these promises to have been hollow. Well over 300 amendments that sought to strengthen safeguards in the Bill and that would have protected vulnerable groups were rejected by Kim Leadbeater and other Bill supporters. This included rejecting amendments that would have: Explicitly protected people with Down’s syndrome, autism and learning difficulties under the Bill. Prevented doctors from raising assisted suicide with patients unprompted, including children under the age of 18. Prohibited assisted suicide in cases where a person has been encouraged or manipulated into a request or where a request has been made under “undue influence”, putting the victims of domestic abuse at risk. These are just some examples of the over 300 amendments that Leadbeater and other Bill supporters rejected. This decision to reject these amendments, which would have strengthened safeguards in the Bill and protected vulnerable groups, was an intentional choice, revealing a deliberate preference for a loose Bill, allowing for future expansion - something I am sure you are aware has happened with similar laws overseas. The Times printed a very strong editorial that highlights the serious problems with the Bill. It calls on MPs to “kill this bill”. TAKE ACTION It’s vital that MPs are aware of these serious problems with how Kim Leadbeater and her allies have conducted Committee Stage of the Bill and the rejection of over 300 amendments. It’s also really important that they know that you, as a constituent, are very concerned about this and that they must vote against the Bill at Third Reading. Right to Life have launched an easy-to-use tool that makes it simple to email your local MP on this new important development. Even if you have already emailed your MP asking them to oppose this Bill, it’s really important that you email them again with this new information, which we need to get in front of MPs now. Please take action and click the button below to contact your MP now . It only takes 30 seconds. ----------------------------------- Previous News : Assisted Dying Bill:- Media reports suggest that the Cross Party Select Committee for the ‘Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill’ have extensively consulted with apparent witnesses or experts who favour assisted dying, having little consultation with any who might oppose the Bill. According to Alithea Williams, from SPUC, amongst the experts, an American doctor, and advocate of assisted suicide, “suggested that being a “burden” was enough reason to die. One doctor even said that it should be a "felony" for loved ones to “interfere with a patient’s right to make this choice”.” (see:-Pro-life advocates in UK say assisted suicide Bill ‘protections’ already being lowered | Crux ) When the Bill was tabled for a vote in Nov 2024, paragraph 12 of the Bill made very clear that a High Court Judge was to ensure that in each situation due diligence and the Law was to be followed and that the Law be adhered to; see section 12 (5) to (11) of the Bill at: Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. Reports suggest that this judicial element, scrutiny by a High Court Judge could be lost. Many of the assurances which were initially given that the UK Law on ‘assisted dying’ would be the strictest in the world are fast eroding, which should be cause for grave concern – particularly with a view to 50 or 60 years hence and your great, great grandchildren who will be making decisions about anyone who is presently 10 to 25 years of age. If such a Bill becomes Law at this time, there is little hope for anyone in the not so distant future. To counter this culture of death and to promote a gospel of life, please support the petition from SPUC at YES to our hospices, NO to assisted suicide – SPUC (it is what it states) asking the Government to do more to support the hospice movement and the work done by everyone involved in palliative care. Again, to encourage you to write to your MP at the House of Commons, asking them to oppose the Assisted Dying Bill and to support funding etc for the hospice movement. The MP for Dorking and Horley is Chris Coughlan (Lib Dem)
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March 30, 2025
GOOD FRIDAY COLLECTION:- We take the opportunity to remind you that on Good Friday there is a collection for the Holy Places in the Holy Land; this collection helps the missionary work of the Franciscans, supporting the upkeep of the holy sites, for which they are responsible as well as the schools, hospitals and other endeavours. EASTER OFFERING A reminder also that the collection at the Easter Vigil and on Easter Sunday is your personal offering to Fr. Ian. PLEASE NOTE that if you usually contribute by some kind of internal bank transfer, BACS / standing order etc. but you wish to make a personal offering, then you will have to stipulate to your bank that any such offering to Fr. Ian should be annotated accordingly; if offerings are not annotated as such, then they will go into the general parish funds, rather than to Fr. Ian! The Easter Offering, along with the Christmas Day Offering, are the major source of personal income for the whole year for the diocesan priest in Arundel and Brighton, so we ask you to be as generous as you can. ‘Easter Offering’ envelopes will be available at the church entrances and given the varied manner of financial transactions, the ‘Easter Offering’ envelopes are possibly the least ambiguous manner of offering. Many thanks.
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March 18, 2025
Deanery news! The next edition of the Deanery newsletter is below and includes a report on recent events and discussions, information on forthcoming events around the Deanery, clergy biographies, and more. Lent Reconciliation Service: Bishop Richard is visiting each Deanery to celebrate Reconciliation Services and will be coming to the Epsom Deanery on Tuesday 25th March, 7pm, at St Michael’s, Ashtead. In the first Epsom Deanery Newsletter last Autumn, I wrote about the initial steps we were taking in response to Bishop Richard’s Call to Mission, as we committed ourselves to putting his Pastoral Plan into effect in this area. In this issue, you can read about some of the meetings that have happened, some actions that are taking place in the coming weeks and months, and about plans that are beginning to form for the longer term; and, most importantly, about how each person can get involved. Please view the full newsletter below:
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March 16, 2025
Government coffers, welfare reform, fertility rates, 57 years on and the Assisted Dying Bill: The domestic headlines this week indicate there is not enough money in the Central Government coffers, without mention of local authorities, council tax, bin collections and the potholes in the roads! Consequently, welfare reform has been announced so that available funds can be more prudently spent. The funds are not there because of increased cost / overheads, an ageing population, creating increased demands and therefore, cost, on the NHS. Fertility rates are at the lowest levels ever, (not least of all, because of housing costs). As the fertility rates become lower the working population will become smaller, so there will be fewer tax payers and therefore even less money going into Government coffers while cost continue to rise. (Consider China’s so called ‘one child policy’, the politics may be different but the impact will be the same.) Since the Abortion Act came in to force in the 1960’s with its ‘safeguard’ of 2 medical practitioners allowing for a pregnancy to be ‘terminated’ have been eroded (Evidenced by being able to purchase the ‘morning after pill’ via the internet; one high street supplier, at least, indicating ‘for future use’ so, hardly ‘emergency’). Given the erosion of such ‘safeguards’ over 57 years in that arena, what of 57 years hence and the future with the ‘Assisted Dying Bill’? If, as has been spoken about, the judiciary is not in place to oversee that due, correct and legal process is adhered to by all concerned, but rather anonymous ‘experts’ (whose dispositions of mind and heart may not be known) and whose subjective involvement in each ‘case of assistance’ might obscure their oversight, what reassurances will there be in another 50 years that those who are regarded as a ‘burden’ or who see themselves as such, against involuntary euthanasia? If there is an ever-diminishing economic situation with ever rising costs and an on-going erosion of any sense of human dignity, the Bill cannot be seen to guarantee to provide against involuntary euthanasia some 50 years hence. Consider also, the number of high-profile cases, whereby, for whatever reasons, ‘officialdom’ has seen a catastrophic failure in the ‘duty of care’. Such high-profile cases point to the fact that a single High Court Judge, retired or otherwise, will not have the capacity to head up a commission to oversee every case of ‘assisted dying’ which is offered up by a plethora of local authorities and its team of “experts”. An article in Saturday’s ‘Telegraph’ by Ollie Corfe, quoting Liz Emerson, of the ‘Intergenerational Foundation’, helps to illustrate concerns about how economics will impact on the ‘Assisted Dying Bill’ should it become law: “Older generations’ wilful disregard for the very real economic plight experienced by younger generations may be driving these intergenerational tensions. “In the 1970s, a home could be bought with a mortgage around three times a person’s annual income. Today’s house prices demand seven times annual incomes outside London and twelve times income in the capital.” (See: The ‘uncomfortable truth’ behind wealth-hoarding boomers )
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March 16, 2025
THE SEASON OF LENT:- During Lent there will be Stations of the Cross on Friday evening at 7.00 pm WE DARE TO HOPE Lent Study Group: Our Lent Study Group focuses on the virtue of Christian Hope. Looking at five episodes in the life of Jesus with beautiful reflections and prayers by a group of Dominican Sisters, everyone is welcome to attend. It will run for five weeks from Tuesday March 18th starting at 11.00am in St. Joseph’s hall. Meetings will last around 75 mins Begins on Wednesday, 5th March, so we should be thinking and praying about what to do during this penitential season, both for our own conversion, to conform ourselves more readily to the person of Christ Jesus, but also for the conversion of the world. Perhaps rather than giving things up we should take things on! Maybe coming to weekday Mass, praying the Stations of the Cross or praying the Rosary or a decade of the Rosary as a family. Perhaps we could take on some Scriptural or spiritual reading, looking at the readings for Sunday Mass or reading about the life of a saint, perhaps after whom, we are named! We might like to commit to spiritual exercises and prayer for a particular individual, that they may return to the practice of their faith Should we be giving things up for Lent, we should not make our abstinence someone else’s penance! This means that if giving something up is going to make us miserable and unbearable for others, then we should do something else. Of course, in our modern era, we might give up 'social media', computer gaming or 'window shopping' on the internet! If we are giving things up, the money saved should be given to charity, and thereby become 'a more pleasing offering to the Lord'. Remember, Lenten self -denial is not about losing weight or improving our lung or liver function, but it is about uniting ourselves with the Passion of our Lord and making an effort to conform ourselves more fully to His person. Ash Wednesday is a day of fasting and abstinence, i.e. no meat or indulgent food, simply enough for the day. There will be Stations of the Cross on Friday evening at 7.00 pm during Lent WE DARE TO HOPE Lent Study Group: Our Lent Study Group focuses on the virtue of Christian Hope. Looking at five episodes in the life of Jesus with beautiful reflections and prayers by a group of Dominican Sisters, this is a national programme published by the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales and everyone is welcome to attend. It will run for five weeks from Tuesday March 18th starting at 11.00am in St. Joseph’s hall. Meetings will last around 75 mins
Latest News
Important Notices
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March 30, 2025
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION: The programmes continue this Tuesday and Thursday respectively. For the older children, Year 5 and above, the meeting will be on Tuesday at 4.15 in the small hall and last about 1 hour. Confirmation Programme: Continues this Thursday at 6 pm.
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February 16, 2025
Diocesan Pastoral Plan: Once again, our thanks to all those who have put forward their details to help with the changing landscape of the local church. Those details have now been collated and a ‘pro temp core group’ having recently met to assist in identifying who might be ‘teamed’ with who, and matters progressed. Those who have offered to help will receive or will have received an e-mail acknowledging and thanking them for their assistance. Such a general e-mail will also include the names of the temporary ‘core team’ members, who have been delegated to contact those of you who have offered to help in the various arenas, so as to bring the differing skill sets and people together. This ‘phase’ will bring individuals together in a ‘group’ meeting which will have both a ‘social’ and ‘business’ element, the latter, in terms of what individuals are prepared to offer within the bounds of their broader responsibilities and commitments.
NEWS ADDITIONS, UPDATES & FEEDBACK
We encourage parishioners to submit articles, or information that you feel appropriate for our news section. Also, do send us feedback about how we can improve our website. Please send details to the parish office through the link below.
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March 30, 2025
ROSARY CIRCLE FOR PRIESTLY VOCATIONS:- If you haven’t already done so, but would still like to commit to praying a decade of the Rosary each day during February, then please do put your initial or a tick in one of the boxes on the ‘Rosary Circle’ chart in the church porch. Our thanks to all those who have ‘signed up’ already to be part of the ‘Rosary Circles’. So as to keep this spiritual exercise in our minds and hearts, the first Sunday of each month is a ‘sign up’ weekend, when people can recommit to this by 'signing up again' or indeed take up this prayerful activity. Let it be said, however, that anyone can join the Rosary Circles at any time, so, even if you haven’t done so thus far, please be encouraged to do so. Details of how to be involved are on the notice in the church porch. PLEASE BE PART OF A ROSARY CIRCLE PRAYING FOR PRIESTLY VOCATIONS FROM THE PARISH! Thank you. Prayer for vocations to the Priesthood: ( Dropped in through the presbytery letter box, so a ‘thankyou’ to the courier) God our Father, look in love upon our homes, our families and our communities. Raise up from amongst us worthy priests to preach the Gospel to all people, to minister at your altar and care for your flock. Fill us with your Holy Spirit and make us faithful and inspiring witnesses to your Kingdom. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
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March 30, 2025
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION: The programmes continue this Tuesday and Thursday respectively. For the older children, Year 5 and above, the meeting will be on Tuesday at 4.15 in the small hall and last about 1 hour. Confirmation Programme: Continues this Thursday at 6 pm.
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March 30, 2025
The Jubilee Year of 2025: Do have a look at the Diocesan website (dabnet) for details about the Jubilee Year. The Diocesan churches designated as places of pilgrimage and plenary indulgences for the Jubilee Year are:- Arundel Cathedral, Worth Abbey, and St. Joseph’s, Guildford..
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March 30, 2025
ROSARY CIRCLE FOR PRIESTLY VOCATIONS:- If you haven’t already done so, but would still like to commit to praying a decade of the Rosary each day during February, then please do put your initial or a tick in one of the boxes on the ‘Rosary Circle’ chart in the church porch. Our thanks to all those who have ‘signed up’ already to be part of the ‘Rosary Circles’. So as to keep this spiritual exercise in our minds and hearts, the first Sunday of each month is a ‘sign up’ weekend, when people can recommit to this by 'signing up again' or indeed take up this prayerful activity. Let it be said, however, that anyone can join the Rosary Circles at any time, so, even if you haven’t done so thus far, please be encouraged to do so. Details of how to be involved are on the notice in the church porch. PLEASE BE PART OF A ROSARY CIRCLE PRAYING FOR PRIESTLY VOCATIONS FROM THE PARISH! Thank you. Prayer for vocations to the Priesthood: ( Dropped in through the presbytery letter box, so a ‘thankyou’ to the courier) God our Father, look in love upon our homes, our families and our communities. Raise up from amongst us worthy priests to preach the Gospel to all people, to minister at your altar and care for your flock. Fill us with your Holy Spirit and make us faithful and inspiring witnesses to your Kingdom. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
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March 30, 2025
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION: The programmes continue this Tuesday and Thursday respectively. For the older children, Year 5 and above, the meeting will be on Tuesday at 4.15 in the small hall and last about 1 hour. Confirmation Programme: Continues this Thursday at 6 pm.
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March 30, 2025
The Jubilee Year of 2025: Do have a look at the Diocesan website (dabnet) for details about the Jubilee Year. The Diocesan churches designated as places of pilgrimage and plenary indulgences for the Jubilee Year are:- Arundel Cathedral, Worth Abbey, and St. Joseph’s, Guildford..
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March 16, 2025
Adult formation / RCIA: The programme is open for everyone to attend, no credentials required! (Anyone under 18 needs to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.) The programme continues this Monday, 31st March at 7 pm. This week we consider Jesus, our Redeemer, the One who restores us to rightful relationship with God the Father.
OUR EVENTS CALENDAR
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Parish Priest: Fr Ian Vane
The Presbytery,
St Joseph's Church
2 Falkland Grove,
Dorking
RH4 3DL
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