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Dear Friends,

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This Sunday we come together not only to worship but also to celebrate—to eat, laugh, talk, and enjoy one another’s company. Our Parish Summer Party is more than a social occasion; it is an expression of our Catholic faith lived in community. We are not just a gathering of individuals who happen to pray in the same building—we are the Body of Christ, a family of believers sent to witness, to serve, and also to rejoice.

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The readings today reflect this beautifully. “Rejoice with Jerusalem, and be glad for her… you shall be comforted… your heart shall rejoice” (Isaiah 66). We are invited to celebrate the peace and abundance that the Lord gives—not only in the quiet of prayer but in the warmth of human connection. This is echoed in the Gospel, where Jesus sends out the seventy-two “two by two”—not alone. They are told to eat, to share peace, and to accept the hospitality of others. Ministry begins at the table as much as at the altar.

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Building bonds within the parish is not optional or superficial—it is essential. St Paul reminds us today that we are a “new creation” in Christ. And in a world that often fragments and isolates, our parish community becomes a place where we remember who we are: brothers and sisters, not strangers. To meet, to eat together, to play games, to enjoy music or simply share a smile—these are small but powerful ways of building communion.

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Yes, we gather every Sunday around the altar of the Lord—but our community is also built in the parish hall, in the garden, under the gazebo, over a burger or a cup of tea. It’s where new friendships form, where children feel part of the Church, and where the lonely are noticed and included.

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Let’s not underestimate the grace in these moments of joy. The peace of Christ does not live only in solemn moments; it rests where love, laughter, and kindness are shared freely. As Jesus said to the disciples: “Eat what is set before you… heal… bring peace.” That’s exactly what today is about.

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So whether you're flipping burgers, pouring drinks, chatting with someone new, or simply enjoying the sun—do it with a joyful heart. You are helping to build not just a fun event, but a stronger parish family.

 

Thank you for being part of it.

Fr Peter

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PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS

 

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Gracious and loving God, we thank You for the gift of our priests, help them to be strong in their vocation and become instruments of Your love and grace. Send Your Holy Spirit to give courage and guidance to all You are calling to the Priesthood, Diaconate and Religious Life in our Archdiocese. May those called, hear Your voice, and respond wholeheartedly to become the person You have created them to be. Heavenly Father, form us all in the likeness of Your Son, Jesus Christ the Good Shepherd, so that we may love You more deeply and serve You more faithfully. We ask this through Christ Your Son, the Eternal High Priest. AMEN

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SECOND COLLECTION NEXT WEEK is for Sea Sunday, organised by Stella Maris, the Catholic charity supporting seafarers worldwide. They provide practical and pastoral care, regardless of nationality or belief. Seafarers and fishers play a vital role in all our lives, but they often work in difficult conditions. Thank you for your generosity.

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PARISH OFFICE. We will be closed on Monday 7th July. Thank you for your understanding.

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ALTAR SERVERS ANNUAL CELEBRATION will take place on Saturday 12th July 2025 at St Thomas's from 09:15am to 12:30pm. Servers from our 4 Parishes are invited. It will be a fun filled day. Email Catherine  to confirm attendance.

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SAVE THE DATE. On Friday 5th September, there will be a social evening in the Parish Centre for parishioners and their non catholic/not practicing catholic partners. Details to follow. In the meantime, to register interest, email  James or 07917032024.

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REFURBISHMENT OF THE PRESBYTERY AND ST THOMAS' CHURCH. Following the prioritisation of the Parish Centre, we are now beginning refurbishment works on the presbytery, with the aim of restoring a welcoming and dignified living space for our priests, as well as suitable accommodation for visiting clergy. The works include important repairs to both the interior and exterior of St Thomas’s Church. Details can be found on the website. Every little help is appreciated as we care for the heart of our parish together.

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TESCO RIVERHEAD. Shop at Tesco Riverhead and help our school. St Thomas Catholic Primary had its application to Tesco Stronger Starts approved. The project is for a Sensory Garden which will include a calming water feature as a reflective piece for children to appreciate the wonders of the natural world. Voting started in July and will go until the end of September. The project with the highest number of votes across our region will receive £1,500 (or the amount that was requested up to this value). Please support our school and share it amongst your friends.

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THURSDAY COFFEE MORNING. Join us for coffee, cake and company every Thursday from 10:00am to 11:45am in the Parish Centre. All are welcome.

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REPOSITORY SHOP OPENING TIMES THIS WEEK

Saturday 5th July: after 6:00pm Mass

Sunday 6th July: after 8:00am Mass; after 6:00pm Mass, and there will be a Repository Shop stall at the Parish Party

Tuesday 8th July: after 9:30am Mass

Saturday 12th July: after 6:00pm Mass

Sunday 13th July: after 8:00am Mass; after 9:15am Mass; after 11:15 Mass; after 6:00pm Mass

 

The Repository Shop will have a stall in our Summer Party on 6th July. Make sure to check in and browse the various items available for sale from cards (Mass cards, birthday, get well, etc), a varied stock of spiritual books, rosaries and gifts for different occasions like Baptism, First Holy Communion or Confirmation. You may also ask for special orders. For any queries or if you can join the team and help, email Esther

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BEREAVEMENT. From September the Bereavement Support team will be arranging to meet anyone who would like to be listened to in a safe, friendly and confidential environment, on an individual basis at a convenient time for them. If you would like to make an appointment, contact the Parish Office.

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YOUTH MEET. Young people (over 11 years old) are invited to a YOUTH MEET on Saturday 26th July from 9:30am to 12:30pm at St. Lawrence Church, Edenbridge, TN8 5AQ. It will be a joyful gathering to hear voices from leaders in politics, sports and film industries. The event will highlight the importance of Christian leadership and of living as witnesses of Christ. There will be sharing, prayer, fun and food. It’s an exciting opportunity to grow in faith and fellowship. Email Fr Vipin or call 07436 371485.

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ARCHBISHOP JOHN. This year marks the 30th Anniversary of Ordination to the Priesthood of our Archbishop John Wilson. All are welcome for a Mass of Thanksgiving at St George’s Cathedral on Friday 25th July at 7:00pm, followed by a Reception.

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FREE SUBSCRIPTION. Every parishioner, as well as teachers and parents, has free access to the workshops created by the world-renowned Catechetical Institute. From Scripture to parenting workshops, to catechetical training and mentoring, there is something for everyone. Find information on how to register here.

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JOB OPPORTUNITY. The Archdiocese of Southwark is recruiting a Trust Relationship Officer to support its schools and academies. For information go to: www.rcaoseducation.org.uk/trust-relationship-officer-education-service/.

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FINANCE ASSISTANT AND SCHOOL CARETAKER. St Thomas' Catholic Primary School is looking for a Finance Assistant to work alongside the Business Manager in the School Office. The School is also hiring a School Caretaker. Both roles are from September 2025. Information: call 01732 453 921 or email Office.

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MEN'S RETREAT. The Men’s retreat day will happen at Holy Trinity Otford on Saturday 6th September from 10:00am to 4:00pm. It will be led by Fr Bryan Wells and the cost will be £15. Save the date. More details to follow. If you would like to attend email Catherine.

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ALTAR SERVERS. The Altar Servers trip to Westminster Pastoral Centre will be from 6th to 9th August. It's for boys are and girls aged 11-15. We commend this excellent residential trip for altar servers and those who regularly attend mass on the weekend. It has gone on for more than 20 years. In a few days, the children have an opportunity to deepen their faith in a great social atmosphere, including football, sports and visit to Thorpe Park. For details of how to get to the venue, with a coach laid on at St. Anselm’s Dartford, see your parish priest for a form, or contact Fr. Stephen Boyle, Chaplain to the Guild of St. Stephen by email or by calling 01322 220075.

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FUNERAL. We are seeking another 8 or 9 helpers for the Funeral Support Group rota at St Thomas's. You will be helping bereaved families by greeting their loved ones and friends, and offering them refreshments in the Parish Room. We only help when families ask us and you are likely to be called no more than six times per year. Contact Pat on 01732 453902 to find out more. "You helped lighten the load on a very bleak day".

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MARRIAGE. Alone or bored in your marriage? Considering separation or already divorced? If you are open to try again, Retrouvaille could be the solution. We have helped thousands of couples get back on track. Retrouvaille is a marriage ministry, run by Catholics, to support marriages. The programme helps couples find hope and healing in their relationship. Call to find out more: www.retrouvaille.org.uk or 0797 338 0443.

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THE GOD WHO SPEAKS. If you are curious about the Bible, you will find great resources, activities and ideas to help you deepen your faith and love of the Scriptures on the God Who Speaks webpages

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FESTIVAL FOR FAMILIES. In this year of Jubilee, connect with other families and people of all ages for a time of fun, faith and friendship at CELEBRATE festival. It will be from August 16th to 20th at Worth School, West Sussex. Camping and residential accommodation options are available. Listen to inspirational speakers, attend Mass and worship. It might just be the summer holiday you never knew you needed. Info here.

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DIVINE MERCY. The Divine Mercy Apostolate, London is holding a Celebration of St Faustina Birthday at Aylesford Priory, Aylesford, on Bank Holiday Monday 25 August 2025 from 10:30am to 4:00pm. The reflection day will include teachings on the Message of Divine Mercy, Holy Mass, Hour of Mercy with Stations of the Cross, Adoration and Benediction and Veneration of the Image of Merciful Jesus. All welcome.

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SOUTHWARK DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES. There are still a few places available on the pilgrimage, which Southwark makes to Lourdes from 22 to 29 August this year. For information and booking, please see https://www.tangney-tours.com/diocese-pilgrimages/ diocese-ca/. There are a range of hotels available, though most Southwark pilgrims will be staying at the Hotel Eliseo. Further information is available from Bishop Paul or Canon Perera 

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SAFEGUARDING. The Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency are seeking feedback from anyone who may have information regarding the safeguarding function in Southwark Archdiocese. Please follow on the below links if you wish to contribute. Thank you

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Do you have information to help our safeguarding inspection in Southwark?

Survivors’ Work With Us

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CATHOLIC HISTORY WALKS. Check out www.catholichistorywalks.com for a selection of fascinating walks around London.

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THURSDAY July 10th - Meet 5pm (note time!), main gate, St Mary's University, Waldegrave Road, TW1 4SX (station: Strawberry Hill). We will learn the story of St Mary's and walk along the river to Richmond, discovering the Orleans royal story and more.

 

THURSDAY Aug 14th - Meet 2.30pm, Church of the Most Precious Blood O'Meara Street London SE1. We will learn the story of St Olaf and a Viking battle, and walk along the river to Shakespeare's rebuilt Globe Theatre.

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FAITH SUMMER BREAK. The Faith Summer Break is set in the beautiful grounds of St Mary's School, Ascot. It's is an exciting four days for 11-15 year olds combining both faith and fun activities in a relaxed holiday setting. The week is structured around getting to know God and each other and includes Holy Mass each day, talks about the Catholic Faith, discussions, prayer, quizzes, art and craft, games, sports and a visit to Thorpe Park. There will be parents, teachers, Catholic youth workers and priests present on-site for the duration of the break. It costs £200 to send a child, which includes accommodation, all meals and the day at Thorpe Park. Dates: Monday 11 to Thursday 14 August 2025. Visit here for more information.

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SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELLA. There will be a walking pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostella from September 20th to 29th. It is suitable for all levels, covering the 116km of the Camino Ingles at a gentle pace over 8 days with an additional day in Santiago. Contact Br David or call 07821049827 - evenings; or Margaret Briggs or call 07703 798967.

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BUILDING A BETTER MARRIAGE (BABM) – Jubilee 2025 Pilgrims of Hope. To celebrate Jubilee 2025 a one day Building a Better Marriage opportunity will be held in the following 9 Southwark deaneries during 2025. The day starts at 9.30am and finishes at 4.30pm and is free to attend. The day will be open to other deaneries in 2026 who have not experienced the event. To join one of these day’s please contact Carole on 07983 524 727 or email 

13th September – Southwark Cathedral, London

4th October – Holy Cross, Catford

1st November – St James the Great, Petts Wood

 

EVANGELIUM 2025 conference will be from 15th to 17th August. This is a conference on Catholic faith, life and culture to help make faithful young Catholic adults effective for Mission. Over the years, hundreds have ignited their faith through Evangelium. Guest speakers include Fr Marcus Holden and Fr Mark Wharton. Booking and more details can be found here.

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WE BELIEVE. This festival of Catholic Life celebrates the Jubilee Year of Hope, with parishes and families in mind, will be from 25th to 28th July. It will be four days of music, keynotes, conversation & worship, in the beautiful surroundings of St Mary’s College, Oscott, Sutton Coldfield. Featuring Dr Gianna Emanuela Molla (daughter of St Gianna Molla), Fr Paul Murray & many more. Pilgrim-attendees can choose to attend for the whole weekend (camping, staying locally or coming from home) at an adult Early Bird rate of £70, or for a day for £40. Early Bird Tickets available.

 

MASS INTENTIONS - A BEAUTIFUL WAY TO PRAY. We have available spaces for Mass intentions in the coming weeks. Offering a Mass for a loved one, whether living or deceased, is a profound act of love and faith. Please contact the parish office to reserve a date. Let us continue to pray for one another through the powerful gift of the Eucharist

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MOTHER’S PRAYERS every Thursday after the 12noon Mass in the Parish Centre. It is a special time for mothers to unite in faith and offer prayers for their families and the broader community. All are welcome.

 

ST PADRE PIO PRAYER GROUP. This is a prayer group for those discerning and practicing discipleship in our parish led by Deacon Neil which meets in the Parish Centre from 7:30pm on the 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of the month, and includes time of fellowship over tea and coffee, praise & worship led by musicians, consideration of Church teaching and prayer. For more information please contact Deacon Neil.

 

RECENTLY DIED

Christopher Charles McCarthy

Requiem Mass on 9th July 2025 at St Thomas’, Sevenoaks (11.30am)

 

Vincent Potter

Requiem Mass on 11th July 2025 at St Thomas’, Sevenoaks (11.00am)

 

May they rest in peace

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WALKING THROUGH THE DOORS OF MERCY

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A personal reflection from the Jubilee of Clergy in Rome.

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From 23 to 27 June 2025, I had the great joy of joining nearly 9,000 fellow priests, bishops, and seminarians from around the world in Rome for the Jubilee of Clergy, part of the Church’s Holy Year of Hope. It was not a conference or a retreat in the usual sense—it was a pilgrimage, and it truly felt like one.

 

What marked me most deeply was the experience of walking through the Holy Doors of all four papal basilicas—St Peter’s, St John Lateran, St Paul Outside the Walls, and St Mary Major (Santa Maria Maggiore). Each door was like a spiritual threshold—a moment of surrender, of grace, of starting anew.

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As I crossed each one, I carried with me the prayers of our parish and the hopes of many souls. In those quiet moments, I asked the Lord for a renewed heart in my priestly ministry.

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One of the most touching and humbling moments came inside Santa Maria Maggiore, where we paused to pay our respects at the tomb of Pope Francis. Kneeling there in silence, I felt a deep gratitude for his witness of mercy, simplicity, and unwavering faith in the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

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The highlight of the pilgrimage came on Friday, 27 June, the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. That morning, under the grandeur of St Peter’s Basilica, we gathered for a beautiful, solemn Mass with Pope Leo XIV.

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With thousands of priests present, and 31 new priests ordained during the liturgy, it was a moving expression of the Church’s unity and vitality. The Pope’s homily was clear and full of encouragement:

“The Lord does not look for perfect priests, but for humble hearts that are open to conversion and prepared to love others as He Himself loved us.”

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After the Mass, we each received a gifted vestment—a reminder of the dignity and humility we are called to clothe ourselves with each day as we serve at the altar and among God’s people.

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This was not just a visit to Rome—it was a return to the source. A pilgrimage not only of feet, but of the heart. Walking in the footsteps of the apostles, celebrating the Eucharist with the successor of Peter, and passing through those ancient Holy Doors left a lasting impression on me.

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I returned to Sevenoaks renewed—not only in my ministry, but in my own soul. And I bring back with me the grace of that pilgrimage, praying it will flow into the life of our parish and rekindle in each of us the fire of hope.

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May the Sacred Heart of Jesus continue to shape us all—with mercy, courage, and joy.

 

DIOCESAN NOTICES
 

​​​​​​​​​Hope in Adoration. As part of the Jubilee Year, Archbishop John is encouraging people to turn to the Lord Jesus in Eucharistic Adoration and have their hopes “fulfilled by Christ”. The campaign, Hope in Adoration, will share testimonies from parish priests and laity throughout the year on how Eucharistic Adoration has helped them build a closer relationship with the Lord Jesus. Resources will also be made available for free and there is a comprehensive list of times of Eucharistic Adoration in parishes across the Archdiocese. Find out more about the campaign at rcaos.org.uk/hopeinadoration​​

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​St Thomas of Canterbury, pray for us.
St Joseph, pray for us.
St Bernadette, pray for us.
St Edith of Kemsing, pray for us.

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Fr Peter Kucharski, Parish Priest of Sevenoaks

12 Granville Road     email

Sevenoaks               01732 454177

TN13 1ER​​​