Contemplation leads to action.

The cloud of unknowing is  an enduring classic of Christian mystical experience written by an English mystic in the 14th century. The author explains how all thoughts and concepts must be buried beneath a cloud of forgetfulness while our love must rise toward God hidden in the Cloud of Unknowing.

With due respect to the author of that great work. Many of us feel that we know what the Cloud of unknowing feels like. The quarantine  is now in its  9th week. The stresses and tensions are begriming  to tell. There is still much kindness, but also confusion. Many of us feel displaced. We are longing for former ways, routines and  experiences. The  nine days, (Novena) in the Church between the Ascension and Pentecost mirror that feeling.

Mary and the disciples are locked down, looking back, waiting anxiously. The  new  outpouring of the Holy Spirit is yet to come. When it happens the Spirit will give the disciples  a new vision of the Glory of the power of God revealed in Jesus Christ. They will  leave old ways behind. We too are being asked to look anew at our world. Challenged  to embrace a new vision for humanity. The Holy spirit inspires, sustains and animates  every Christian.  The Spirit is the wind in our sails. No spirit no movement, no change.

While we are  focused on the effects of the pandemic in our own back yard there is still  a world  in need. Below you will find links to many of the Relief agencies and Charities whom you have supported in years past. All of them engaged with promoting the new vision of  Gods Church for the world. If you can  support any of them just click on the links below. The Author of the Cloud understands the act of contemplation as participating in Christ passion and love for others. Being forgetful of oneself to be caught up in love of God. Laying all preconceptions aside leads us to be open to the needs of others. Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts  of  your faithful, renew the face of the earth.

Mgr Jim

CAFOD: https://cafod.org.uk
FRIENDS OF THE HOLY LAND (Match Funded until 31st May): https://www.friendsoftheholyland.org.uk/
MISSIO: missio.org.uk
APOSTLESHIP OF THE SEA (STELLA MARIS): https://www.apostleshipofthesea.org.uk/

The Cardinal has sent a pastoral video message to all parishioners, see the News section of the website: News

Live streaming  of Mass  11.00 am on Sundays and at 10 am Weekdays. Each Mass is recorded  and can be viewed later in the day. So if you miss the live event you can still see Mass later. https://www.churchservices.tv/kensington1

​Join us  for  a hour of Prayer on the Vigil of Pentecost at 7pm Saturday May 30th. Exposition  of the Blessed Sacrament, the litany of the Holy Spirit and prayers  for the world. It will be live streamed on the same website as Mass. See link above. 

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