​Acts 2, 42-47; 1 Pt 1, 3-9; Jn 20, 19-31
In the compilation of lent and Easter: “When Thomas is invited to touch Jesus’ wounds, those wounds draw out of him the disruptions below the surface of his own life.  His trust has been shaken, his faith in Jesus as the messenger of God’s reign has been called into question.  Touching the wounds of Jesus connects his inner wounds to those very visible ones of Jesus.  The wounds of Jesus’ heart can be placed in the larger and deeper wounds of Jesus, hands and side.  In this way, Thomas is healed and can move from doubt to his confession of faith.”   What a powerful way for us to navigate our own sufferings that we carry each day.
I also have been inspired by Pope Francis’ homily several years ago on this Gospel passage when he spoke about we encounter the living God through Jesus’ wounds.  Pope Francis says that we meet the living God as we tenderly kiss the wounds of Jesus in our hungry, poor, sick, imprisoned brothers and sisters. Like St. Thomas, our life will only be changed when we touch the Risen Christ's wounds present in the poor, sick and needy. The wounds of poverty, geographic isolation, lack of economic opportunities, tragic deaths, domestic violence, substance abuse and transition were very real for many of our family members.  
By walking with them, learning with them and learning to love more deeply than we ever thought that we could, enable us to know Jesus more intimately.  And, from there, we could see the beauty of the resurrection in the hopes and dreams of our families, the beauty of the land, the strengths of relationships and the depth of faith in the people we work with and know there.
I pray that we are able to learn from Thomas in whatever way we need to, to become closer to Christ during this Easter season.                                                                                                     Fr Ephrem
Holy Trinity Parish Vision
We are a prayerful and diverse Catholic community in the Eastern suburbs of Wellington,
drawing strength from one another to grow and become fully alive as missionary disciples.

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING CHANGE TO WEEKDAY MASS TIMES  
Monday -         no Mass in the Parish
Tuesdays -      9am St Anthony’s and 9.30am St Patrick’s
Wednesdays - 9am St Anthony’s and 9.30am Holy Cross
Thursdays -     9am St Anthony’s preceded by Rosary (except during the school term Mass will be at 11.30am)
                         9.30am St Patrick’s
Fridays -          9am St Patrick’s and 9.30am Holy Cross
Saturdays –    9.00am Holy Cross

 ANZAC DAY SERVICE 25th April  ST PATRICK’S CHURCH 9.30AM
Followed by a cup of coffee and biscuits in the meeting room.
On the day, bring a photo of loved ones to place under the altar during Mass.
PLEASE NOTE: There will be no Mass at St Anthony’s Church on this day

Liturgy of the Word with Communion. In the near future, we will be introducing Liturgies of the Word with Communion on Mondays in our Parish. To this end we are looking for leaders to be on a roster to take these Liturgies. If you are available on a Monday morning and would be capable of leading a liturgy please contact Fr Ephrem 388 6953 or [email protected] so training sessions and commissioning can be organised.

Right of Blessing for Expectant Parents and the Child in the Womb
There wil be a Mass and blessing for all expectant parents and their child in the womb at St Patrick’s Church Kilbirnie Saturday 13th May at 11am.
There will be no confession at St Patrick’s on this day.

Some our wonderful volunteers have, for various reasons, been unable to continue. We need more volunteers to fill the gaps. At the back of the newsletter is a volunteer form to fill in. If you are not currently involved, please fill in the form and tick which roster you would like to be included in.  Thank you.

102 people attended the parish property forums, plus 33 written submissions were received; a wide variety of views were expressed. Minutes of the forum are now available on the parish website.  www.holytrinity.parish.nz/property you can read the initial needs assessment, early development of options and subsequent comment from the forum plus a summary of written submissions.
The property committee is now developing its recommendations to the parish.

ALPHA PARENTING CHILDREN COURSE The course went really well last year so we are offering it again.  It is a series of five videos on building strong relationships, meeting our kid’s needs, setting boundaries, teaching healthy relationships and long term aims.  The course is over five weeks.  Each week it starts with afternoon tea and a video, which are followed by short discussion. No matter where you are at with your kids it is a helpful, practical course.  Hope you can join us.  The first session will be in the Gascoigne Room at 3.15pm on Tuesday 16 May.  There is no charge.  Bring your children along as both play and homework supervision is provided.  For more details, see the following video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BY8thZ_W2gY or text Kim on 0222426288 or Ruth on 0276700365

If God exists, it changes everything!  Alpha discussion allows people to share their thoughts and questions about video talks on faith without being corrected or judged. The trained hosts and helpers are there to facilitate this discussion time and keep it a positive and comfortable experience for guests.  The discussions are available again this year starting at 7.00pm in the Gascoigne Room on Tuesday 2 May.  To enrol please call or text Dave Monastra on 0274477280 or Ruth O’Brien on 0276700365.  Feel free to bring a friend who may not be a member of the parish.

Volunteers required by Mary Potter Hospice for their annual street collection on Friday or Saturday 19 and 20 May 2017. If you are able to give 1 or 2 hours to help this most worthy cause in Miramar/Kilbirnie please contact Ray Whelan on 3883667 or email [email protected].

St Catherine’s College Open Days and Evening Wed 31 May 1.15 – 3.15pm Sun 11 June 1.00 – 3.00pm Tues 8 August Evening 5.45 - 7.00pm, Kilbirnie, Wellington, 939 8988

Assistance needed
At the request of the Red Cross, St Catherine’s College has recently enrolled several refugee students. Red Cross is providing some assistance but the College needs to provide basic equipment and help with Attendance Dues. We have very limited available funding and it will not fully meet this need. If you are able to help with a donation or on-going sponsorship of a student, even in a small way, the College, the students and their families would be most grateful. Please contact the Principal, Mrs Mary Curran 9398988  [email protected]  Thank you so much.
St Patrick’s College is holding a “Taste of St Pat’s Day” on Tuesday 9 May for Year 8 Catholic boys interested in attending St Pat’s in 2018.  This day will provide a good insight into life at St Patrick’s College and what we can offer the boys next year.  It will run from 10am to 2pm.  Parents would need to transport their son to and from St Pat’s on the day.  If parents would like to register their son please email [email protected] or phone Gerardine Parkinson on 939 5417.   Our official Open Day is on Sun 11 June 1.30 – 4pm.

 
JIMMY MITCHELL - An evening of stories & songs Monday 24th April @ 7pm - 8:30pm at St Anne's Church, Emmett Street, Newtown. A one-night Parish Mission for young and old alike.

Life in the Spirit Seminar 2017 You are invited to attend a 7-week seminar on Wednesday evenings beginning on 26 April at St Anne`s Hall in Newtown.  The seminar is designed to bring you into a closer relationship with Jesus.  Each evening will include praise and worship, a talk and small group sharing.  Further details will be found on your notice board as well as on fliers located near the notice board. 

ORGAN RECITAL: Sunday April 30th 2:30pm welcomes Johann Vexo, Organist Nancy Cathedral and Choir Organist Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris and Damien Rivière Tenor, Notre-Dame Cathedral Choir, Paris as they present a concert of music by Bach, Alain, Vierne, Durufle and Langlais in support of our organ fundraising campaign. Please do come along to listen to some fantastic music performed by leading French artists in support of our organ fundraising campaign. Tickets $20+GST available at the door (cash or eftpos), or from the Cathedral Director of Music - Michael Fletcher 04 496 1700.

Marriage Encounter is running an enrichment weekend for all couples that believe their marriage is important. Without constantly working on improving your relationship complacency can creep in and wreak havoc, sometimes destroying the beautiful relationship you currently have. Join us on the next weekend. Weekend Date: 12th – 14th May. To be held at Masters Hall SH2 Pahiatua. Ph. 0800 362 686 for information and to book a place on the weekend.

Holy Hour You are invited to a Holy Hour on Tuesday 25 April beginning at 7.30 pm in the Cathedral chapel to pray for vocations to priesthood and religious life.  This Holy Hour will will include prayers, Scripture, times of silence, praise and worship and concluding with Benediction followed by supper.  All are welcome.

Healing Service There is to be a Healing Service with Fr John Rea at St Teresa`s Church Karori on Monday 24 April beginning at 7.30 pm.  Everyone is welcome.  Please bring those who need Jesus` healing.

Events at Pā Maria Marist Spirituality Centre, 78 Hobson Street, Thorndon:
• Non-Residential Guided Retreat:  “Companions on the Journey”. July 10-14, 9.30am-4.00pm each day.  $200.
• Winter Film Series:  “Called Beyond Ourselves”.  5 Evenings, 7.00pm-9.30pm.  Two seasons available: 7, 14, 21, 28 August & 4 September OR 10, 17, 24, 31 August and 7 September.  Kōha.
For information and/or to register please contact Fr Brian Cummings SM:  ph 212 4691 or 021 703 580  [email protected]

​HAPPY EASTER
On this Easter day we want to receive the news of Jesus Risen not as an announcement of an event from long ago and far away.  We want to receive this Good News now: “this is the day the Lord has made!”
“You were raised with Christ.” This is not an isolated event – the resurrection of Jesus in our flesh has given to us in the grace of baptism assures us that resurrection is ours as well. Mysteriously, we already share in the resurrection.
Paul says, “You too will appear with him in glory.” Our future life, the life or resurrection, is no mere survival or continuation of life as it is, just “more of the same.” No, we are promised glory – as St. Paul says in the letter to the Romans, “I consider that the sufferings of this present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us.” The first letter of John describes this glory: “we shall be lime him for we shall see him as he is.” And, seen more dramatically, the first letter of Peter declares: we shall share in “the divine nature.”
Payer: Jesus, give me the grace, stir my heart, to know and feel more profoundly that you are with me and I with you today, tomorrow and eternally!
Jesus is Risen, Praise the Lord: ALLELUIA!
Fr Ephrem
Holy Trinity Parish Vision
We are a prayerful and diverse Catholic community in the Eastern suburbs of Wellington,
drawing strength from one another to grow and become fully alive as missionary disciples.

A big thank you
to all those involved in Easter preparations.
You do amazing work and we are very grateful.

 
Fr Ephrem celebrates the 15th anniversary
of his ordination on Good Friday 14th April.
We congratulate him and wish him well.

 
Fr Gregory wishes Happy Easter to you all and expresses his heartfelt thanks and gratitude to each and every one of you (whole Parish) for praying and supporting him as he struggles with his sickness. He is getting better day by day. We hope to see him at the altar soon.
                                                                                                     

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING CHANGE TO WEEKDAY MASS TIMES EFFECTIVE MONDAY 17TH APRIL 2017
From Monday 17th April, there will be no Monday morning Mass in the Parish.
The weekday Mass timetable will be:
Monday -         no Mass in the Parish
Tuesdays -      9am St Anthony’s and 9.30am St Patrick’s
Wednesdays - 9am St Anthony’s and 9.30am Holy Cross
Thursdays -     9am St Anthony’s preceded by Rosary (except during the school term Mass will be at 11.30am)
                         9.30am St Patrick’s
Fridays -          9am St Patrick’s and 9.30am Holy Cross
Saturdays –    9.30am Holy Cross

For those attending services at Holy Cross Church during Easter Week, please do not park at the Bridge Club on Hobart Street.
Thank you.

Archdiocese Synod Nominations. The pastoral council ask all parishioners to consider their participation in the diocesan-wide Synod in September.  The synod is a process of discernment and listening to determine the future direction for the whole diocese.  The pastoral council wish to have nominations from all age groups and communities within our parish. However, Participants are NOT there to represent holy trinity parish but be part of the wider diocesan family.
WE ARE CALLING FOR NOMINATIONS by Easter Monday.  Please provide your own name and contact details to [email protected], put in the collection basket at Mass or drop your nomination into the office  
If you wish to nominate another person please talk to them about this first. 

 ANZAC DAY SERVICE 25th April    ST PATRICK’S CHURCH 9.30AM
Followed by a cup of coffee and biscuits in the meeting room.
On the day, bring a photo of loved ones to place under the altar during Mass.

102 people attended the parish property forums, plus 33 written submissions were received; a wide variety of views were expressed

Minutes of the forum are now available on the parish web-site. www.holytrinity.parish.nz/property you can read the initial needs assessment, early development of options and subsequent comment from the forum plus a summary of written submissions.
The property committee is now developing its recommendations to the parish.

ALPHA PARENTING CHILDREN COURSE The course went really well last year so we are offering it again.  It is a series of five videos on building strong relationships, meeting our kid’s needs, setting boundaries, teaching healthy relationships and long term aims.  The course is over five weeks.  Each week it starts with afternoon tea and a video, which are followed by short discussion.
No matter where you are at with your kids it is a helpful, practical course.  Hope you can join us.  The first session will be in the Gascoigne Room at 3.15pm on Tuesday 16 May.  There is no charge.  Bring your children along as both play and homework supervision is provided.  For more details, see the following video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BY8thZ_W2gY or text Kim on 0222426288 or Ruth on 0276700365

If God exists, it changes everything!  Alpha talks are designed to engage guests and inspire conversation. They explore the big issues around faith and unpack the basics of Christian faith, addressing questions like “Who is Jesus?”, “Why and how do I pray?” and “How does God guide us?”.  The talks are available again this year starting at 7.00pm in the Gascoigne Room on Tuesday 2 May.  To enrol please call or text Dave Monastra on 0274477280 or Ruth O’Brien on 0276700365.  Feel free to bring a friend who may not be a member of the parish.  

Knitting for babies and young children. Many thanks to all those who have continued knitting for these children. There is still a great need for these garments and are very much appreciated. Also, any donations of double knitting wool would be appreciated. Leave at the back of the church or ring Margaret 388 2840. Many thanks.

St Catherine’s College Open Days and Evening
Wednesday 31 May 2017 1.15 – 3.15pm Sunday 11 June 2017 1.00 – 3.00pm
Tuesday 8 August 2017 Evening 5.45 - 7.00pm 14 Upper Bourke Street, Kilbirnie, Wellington, 939 8988

Assistance needed
At the request of the Red Cross, St Catherine’s College has recently enrolled several refugee students. Red Cross is providing some assistance but the College needs to provide basic equipment and help with Attendance Dues. We have very limited available funding and it will not fully meet this need. If you are able to help with a donation or on-going sponsorship of a student, even in a small way, the College, the students and their families would be most grateful. Please contact the Principal, Mrs Mary Curran on 4-939-8988 or [email protected]
Thank you so much.
St Patrick’s College is holding a “Taste of St Pat’s Day” on Tuesday 9 May for Year 8 Catholic boys interested in attending St Pat’s in 2018.  This day will provide a good insight into life at St Patrick’s College and what we can offer the boys next year.  It will run from 10am to 2pm.  Parents would need to transport their son to and from St Pat’s on the day.  If parents would like to register their son please email [email protected] or phone Gerardine Parkinson on 939 5417.
 Our official Open Day is on Sunday 11 June from 1.30 – 4pm.

Vinnies-Wellington invites you…
Annual Book-Fair (22-23 April) will be hosted at St Anne’s church hall, Emmett Street, Newtown on Saturday 8am-4pm and Sunday 9am-3pm. It is a book hunt worth attending with lots of good reads. All proceeds go towards the Vinnies welfare services.
 
Friend Requests (on-going) is a programme that pairs up members of our community with neighbours who have requested visitations. Frequency and duration of visit is flexible and dependant on the pair. You must be 21+ years to be a visitor. If you are interested in assisting with any of the above or have questions about other initiatives contact Ana Faatoia 021 033 0615 / [email protected] 

Dove Wellington invites all women to our meeting from 1.15pm to 3pm on Saturday 22 April at Connolly Hall, Guildford Terrace, Wellington.  This meeting, we are blessed to have Jayne Sutherland as our guest speaker.   She will be sharing her testimony with us of her journey of faith.  It will be a wonderful time of sharing, caring and community.  We look forward to seeing you there.   Please contact Rachel Blackaby for any queries on (04) 389 9938

Divine Mercy Celebration
You are all invited to join in the Diving Mercy Celebrations to be held on Sunday 23rd April after 10.30am Mass out Our Lady of Fatima Church, Tawa. Taking place during the celebration are the Blessing of religious objects, the Veneration of the Diving Mercy Image, Lighting of candles and the Chaplet of Diving Mercy. The celebrant is Father John van der Kaa AA. (Parish Priest of Our Lady of Hope) Reconciliation will be available after the service.

Life in the Spirit Seminar 2017 You are invited to attend a 7-week seminar on Wednesday evenings beginning on 26 April at St Anne`s Hall in Newtown.  The seminar is designed to bring you into a closer relationship with Jesus.  Each evening will include praise and worship, a talk and small group sharing.  Further details will be found on your notice board as well as on fliers located near the notice board. 

Free Relationship Insurance! Marriage Encounter is running an enrichment weekend for all couples that believe their marriage is important. Without constantly working on improving your relationship complacency can creep in and wreak havoc, sometimes destroying the beautiful relationship you currently have. It’s not worth the risk! Book on the Marriage Encounter weekend now and protect your relationship. You insure your house so why not your marriage?  Join us on the next weekend.
Weekend Date: 12th – 14th May. To be held at Masters Hall SH2 Pahiatua. Ph. 0800 362 686 for information and to book a place on the weekend.

Healing Service There is to be a Healing Service with Fr John Rea at St Teresa`s Church Karori on Monday 24 April beginning at 7.30 pm.  Everyone is welcome.  Please bring those who need Jesus` healing.
Prayers for healing – A meeting with Fr John Rea on Thursday 4th May 7.30pm at Our Lady of Fatima Church parata St, Waikanae. Everyone welcome. Come with your Prayer intentions and bring a friend.

A society that wishes and intends to remain at the service of the human being at every level is a society that has the common good as its primary goal.’ Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace 2004.

Joshua Catholic Men’s Fellowship Wellington
Come along and join us on Thursday 20th of April 2017 at 7:30pm for fellowship and prayer in CONNOLLY HALL, Guildford Terrace, Thorndon (behind Sacred Heart Cathedral).
Speakers: John Taylor & Steve Ready on Joshua-Dove Leaders' Weekend 
Want to know more? Ring John Taylor (04) 389-8915 or 021-107-8538 or email: [email protected]
 

​Readings: Is 50, 4-7; Phil 2, 6-11; Mt 24, 14-27. 66
Jesus’ seeming cry of desperation is, in fact, a prayer that expresses deep longing to stay connected with God.  With this cry, Jesus gives voice to the most ardent longing of the human heart to find God and remain with God in the midst of the tribulations and anguish of human existence.  Jesus on the cross represents humanity at its lowest pint, in the mire of despair. Then out of that pit he emerges and draws out humanity with him, as he cries out, “My God ..., “thus claiming again the relationship and connection that make us exist and give us our identity.
Vatican Council Two’s document “Church in the Modern world” helps understand the cry.  The document recalls our Christian belief that Jesus’ divinity did not eclipse the full experience of his humanity. As fully human Jesus on the cross tasted the depths of human suffering on every level – physical, psychological and spiritual. And perhaps most painful of all, Jesus was a failure.  Jesus failed to accomplish the mission given him by his Father – preaching the Good News of the Kingdom of God. And on the cross Jesus felt abandoned – he even felt abandoned by his Father: “My god, my god, why have you abandoned me?”
Like Jesus we may feel abandoned by god but we are not alone; just as Father transformed Jesus’ suffering so too He transforms our sufferings. Paul would say, “He humbled himself, becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross,” the mystery of our salvation fulfilled in resurrection. That is why Holy Week is the holiest week of the year.
Have a blessed Holy Week.
Fr Ephrem
Holy Trinity Parish Vision
We are a prayerful and diverse Catholic community in the Eastern suburbs of Wellington,
drawing strength from one another to grow and become fully alive as missionary disciples.

Weekday Mass timetable for Easter Week
 
Mon 10th –     9am morning Mass at St Patrick’s
Tues 11th –    9am morning Mass at St Anthony’s
Weds 12th –   9.30am morning Mass at Holy Cross
No evening adoration or Mass at St Patrick’s Church
Thurs 13th – no morning Mass at the 3 Churches

Easter reconciliation
is still available for those who were not able to make it to Holy Cross on Thursday.
Wednesday 12th April  - 6 – 7pm at St Patrick’s Church
Good Friday 14th April – after the Passion service at Holy Cross

St Anthony’s:
10am Way of the Cross starts at St Anthony’s not St George’s as previously advertised.

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING CHANGE TO WEEKDAY MASS TIMES EFFECTIVE MONDAY 17TH APRIL 2017
From Monday 17th April, there will be no morning Mass in the Parish.
The rest of the weekday Masses will continue as normal.  Thanks you.

Tuesday 11th April - Archdiocesan North Island Chrism Mass – the Mass of the oils, 7.30pm, Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Hill St, Thorndon.

During Easter Tide, those parishioners who wish to have a visit from the priest and spend some time in prayer or have their house blessed, please contact the Parish Office 388 6953 or [email protected].

Easter Music Practice There will be a music practice for all musicians and singers who would like to be involved in the Music for Holy Thursday and Easter Saturday Night. The practice will be at 7-8pm at Holy Cross Church on Monday Night All are welcome and needed. If you would like any information contact David Sullivan  [email protected] or 388 9001

For those attending services at Holy Cross Church during Easter Week, please do not park at the Bridge Club on Hobart Street.
Thank you.

Archdiocese Synod Nominations. The pastoral council ask all parishioners to consider their participation in the diocesan-wide Synod in September.  The synod is a process of discernment and listening to determine the future direction for the whole diocese.  The pastoral council wish to have nominations from all age groups and communities within our parish. However, Participants are NOT there to represent holy trinity parish but be part of the wider diocesan family.
WE ARE CALLING FOR NOMINATIONS by Easter Monday.  Please provide your own name and contact details to [email protected], put in the collection basket at Mass or drop your nomination into the office  
If you wish to nominate another person please talk to them about this first. 

TOGETHER WE STAND - Closing Event for 40 Days for Life. Sunday 9th April.
4.00 p.m. Combined Prayer at the Vigil Site
4.30 p.m. Procession to St Paul's Lutheran Hall
5.00 p.m. Brief Address Followed by Food and Fellowship

ALPHA PARENTING CHILDREN COURSE The course went really well last year so we are offering it again.  It is a series of five videos on building strong relationships, meeting our kid’s needs, setting boundaries, teaching healthy relationships and long term aims.  The course is over five weeks.  Each week it starts with afternoon tea and a video, which are followed by short discussion.
No matter where you are at with your kids it is a helpful, practical course.  Hope you can join us.  The first session will be in the Gascoigne Room at 3.15pm on Tuesday 16 May.  There is no charge.  Bring your children along as both play and homework supervision is provided.  For more details, see the following video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BY8thZ_W2gY or text Kim on 0222426288 or Ruth on 0276700365

 If God exists, it changes everything!  Alpha is a series of interactive sessions exploring the basics of our faith.  Each session looks at a different question, and is designed to create conversation. There’s no pressure, no follow-up and no charge; it’s just an open, informal, and honest space to explore and discuss life’s big questions together.  The sessions are available again this year starting at 7.00pm in the Gascoigne Room on Tuesday 2 May.  To enrol please call or text Dave Monastra on 0274477280 or Ruth O’Brien on 0276700365.  Feel free to bring a friend who may not be a member of the parish.

Knitting for babies and young children. Many thanks to all those who have continued knitting for these children. There is still a great need for these garments and are very much appreciated. Also, any donations of double knitting wool would be appreciated. Leave at the back of the church or ring Margaret 388 2840. Many thanks.

 ANZAC DAY SERVICE 25th April    ST PATRICK’S CHURCH 9.30AM
Followed by a cup of coffee and biscuits in the meeting room.
On the day, bring a photo of loved ones to place under the altar during Mass.

Vinnies-Wellington invites you…
Annual Book-Fair (22-23 April) will be hosted at St Anne’s church hall, Emmett Street, Newtown on Saturday 8am-4pm and Sunday 9am-3pm. It is a book hunt worth attending with lots of good reads. All proceeds go towards the Vinnies welfare services.
 
Friend Requests (on-going) is a programme that pairs up members of our community with neighbours who have requested visitations. Frequency and duration of visit is flexible and dependant on the pair. You must be 21+ years to be a visitor. If you are interested in assisting with any of the above or have questions about other initiatives contact Ana Faatoia 021 033 0615 / [email protected] .

Delivers of the news and views please collect your copies form the back of the church. If possible, please have these delivered before Easter as Mass times are included. Thank you

Dove Wellington invites all women to our meeting from 1.15pm to 3pm on Saturday 22 April at Connolly Hall, Guildford Terrace, Wellington.  This meeting, we are blessed to have Jayne Sutherland as our guest speaker.   She will be sharing her testimony with us of her journey of faith.  It will be a wonderful time of sharing, caring and community.  We look forward to seeing you there.   Please contact Rachel Blackaby for any queries on (04) 389 9938

Assistance needed
At the request of the Red Cross, St Catherine’s College has recently enrolled several refugee students. Red Cross is providing some assistance but the College needs to provide basic equipment and help with Attendance Dues. We have very limited available funding and it will not fully meet this need. If you are able to help with a donation or on-going sponsorship of a student, even in a small way, the College, the students and their families would be most grateful. Please contact the Principal, Mrs Mary Curran on 4-939-8988 or [email protected]
Thank you so much.
 


St Catherine’s College  Open Days and Evening
Wednesday 31 May 2017 1.15 – 3.15pm Sunday 11 June 2017 1.00 – 3.00pm
Tuesday 8 August 2017 Evening 5.45 - 7.00pm 14 Upper Bourke Street, Kilbirnie, Wellington, 939 8988

St Patrick’s College is holding a “Taste of St Pat’s Day” on Tuesday 9 May for Year 8 Catholic boys interested in attending St Pat’s in 2018.  This day will provide a good insight into life at St Patrick’s College and what we can offer the boys next year.  It will run from 10am to 2pm.  Parents would need to transport their son to and from St Pat’s on the day.  If parents would like to register their son please email [email protected] or phone Gerardine Parkinson on 939 5417.
 Our official Open Day is on Sunday 11 June from 1.30 – 4pm.

Free Relationship Insurance! Marriage Encounter is running an enrichment weekend for all couples that believe their marriage is important. Without constantly working on improving your relationship complacency can creep in and wreak havoc, sometimes destroying the beautiful relationship you currently have. It’s not worth the risk! Book on the Marriage Encounter weekend now and protect your relationship. You insure your house so why not your marriage?  Join us on the next weekend.
Weekend Date: 12th – 14th May. To be held at Masters Hall SH2 Pahiatua. Ph. 0800 362 686 for information and to book a place on the weekend.

Healing Service There is to be a Healing Service with Fr John Rea at St Teresa`s Church Karori on Monday 24 April beginning at 7.30 pm.  Everyone is welcome.  Please bring those who need Jesus` healing.

Sonrise Service – Easter Sunday 16th April 6.30am at Mt Victoria Lookout
Hosted by the Salvation Army and orgaisend by the Council of Wellington Churches.

Joshua Catholic Men’s Fellowship Wellington
Come along and join us on Thursday 20th of April 2017 at 7:30pm for fellowship and prayer in CONNOLLY HALL, Guildford Terrace, Thorndon (behind Sacred Heart Cathedral).
Speakers: John Taylor & Steve Ready on Joshua-Dove Leaders' Weekend 
Want to know more? Ring John Taylor (04) 389-8915 or 021-107-8538 or email: [email protected]
 

​Readings: Ezekiel 37, 12-14; Rom 8, 8-11; Jn 11, 1-45
Introduction: That we might have Life
New life is more than just life; life that will never end; life that can accrue even from death... This is today’s good news.
Today first reading from Ezekiel oozes with hope.  God desires and has the power to bring life even out of death, to make us rise from our tombs, and make us settle in our land.  But God’s vision and promise ought to be our desire, too.  He needs a little help from us, and it starts with our own desire for life, not death. It starts with our won efforts at doing what St. Paul counsels us – to leave behind life “in the flesh” and pursue one “in the Spirit.”
After the Lord has walked Mary through her ignorance, tears, sorrow and grief, Martha knew much, much more.  But by then, it was not just a matter of knowing.  It becomes a matter of faith: “Yes, Lord, I have come to believe that you are the Christ, the son of God, the one who is coming into the world.” No one does it better than He who died and gave Himself “that we might have life – life in its fullness.” Who is your life and resurrection?
Fr Ephrem
The last Friday of Lent is a day of fasting and abstinence
Holy Trinity Parish Vision
We are a prayerful and diverse Catholic community in the Eastern suburbs of Wellington,
drawing strength from one another to grow and become fully alive as missionary disciples.

Lenten Mass – 1st March – 8th April
There will be 6.30am Mass at Holy Cross Church from Monday – Saturday during Lent.
Stations of the Cross – Thursdays during Lent
Every Thursday at 7pm at St Patrick’s Church through to 6th April

Congratulations to our children from St Anthony’s who received reconciliation this week and from Holy Cross and St Patrick’s for Thursday 6th April at Holy Cross Church
Please continue to pray for them as they complete the sacramental programme this year.
St Anthony’s -  JosephThurston, Cassara Balogh,Liam Balogh,Luca Giera,Coco Giera,Sophia Meech, Ricco Raymond, Riley Smith,  Billy Proudfoot, Dannielle Trangmar, Chloe Blades,  Shyla Prasad, James Pink, Maggie Taylor
Holy Cross  - Chimereuchem Kelech, Chiemesia Kelech, Chidumnoro Kelechi, Sean Evans, Rociana Ropat, Lupe Ropat, Joshua Angelo, Laura Blair, Anastasia Graham, Lauseana Kerschbaumer, Andry Bourke,  Liaiina Lefale, Xanthe Dickie, Adam Burns, Laionosi Taumoe'anga, Robin Taumoe'anga, Joseph Finau, Benjamin Finefeuiaki, Mounga Finefeuiaki,  Liaiina Leafale, Zerlinde Tutuila, Sulia Tutuila,  Tyla Walmsley
St Patrick’s – Ioane Aukustino, Keira Delaney, Liam Delaney, Roman Hammington, Ella Hansen, Elijoh Higgins, Aaron Mathew, Beatrice Noriega, Aryan Prasad, Angela Robert, Gerard Sera Jose, Mairan Sullivan.  

Fr Gregory thanks you all for your prayers and good wishes. He is still not well enough to celebrate Masses as he is suffering a re-occurrence of the trigeminal neuralgia which affected him a few years ago. He is resting at home.

Archdiocesan North Island Chrism Mass – the Mass of the oils, 7.30pm, Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Hill St, Thorndon.

Holy Cross Happy Hour – Weds 5th April 11am in the Parish Centre.
Seniors are reminded of our next happy hour. A friendly game of bingo and a shared lunch.
 All welcome.

Easter Music Practice There will be a music practice for all musicians and singers who would like to be involved in the Music for Holy Thursday and Easter Saturday Night. The practice will be at 7-8pm at Holy Cross Church on Monday Night All are welcome and needed. If you would like any information contact David Sullivan  [email protected] or 388 9001

Palm Sunday
To help us with the giving side of our Lenten devolution, food donations will be collected on Palm Sunday and donated to St Vincent de Paul. If you could please bring a non-perishable food item and place in the collection boxes at the back of each Church next Sunday. Thank you.  

The pastoral council ask all parishioners to consider their participation in the diocesan-wide Synod in September.  The synod is a process of discernment and listening to determine the future direction for the whole diocese.  The pastoral council wish to have nominations from all age groups and communities within our parish. However, Participants are NOT there to represent holy trinity parish but be part of the wider diocesan family.
WE ARE CALLING FOR NOMINATIONS by Easter Monday.  Please provide your own name and contact details to [email protected], put in the collection basket at Mass or drop your nomination into the office  
If you wish to nominate another person please talk to them about this first. 

ALPHA PARENTING CHILDREN COURSE The course went really well last year so we are offering it again.  It is a series of five videos on building strong relationships, meeting our kid’s needs, setting boundaries, teaching healthy relationships and long term aims.  The course is over five weeks.  Each week it starts with afternoon tea and a video, which are followed by short discussion.
No matter where you are at with your kids it is a helpful, practical course.  Hope you can join us.  The first session will be in the Gascoigne Room at 3.15pm on Tuesday 16 May.  There is no charge.  Bring your children along as both play and homework supervision is provided.  For more details, see the following video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BY8thZ_W2gY or text Kim on 0222426288 or Ruth on 0276700365

Last year 95 people across the parish attended Alpha faith and parenting courses.  The Alpha faith course is a really terrific refresher course on the fundamentals of what we believe and how these beliefs equip us to be loving people in our families and community.  Each of the courses included an away day at the Home of Compassion in  Island Bay.  The Home of Compassion is a neat place where it is easy to be prayerful.  It seems that part of the success of the course has been the good atmosphere for people to be able to share and discuss their thoughts.  The courses are available again this year starting at 7.00pm in the Gascoigne Room on Tuesday 2 May.  To enrol please call or text Dave Monastra on 0274477280 or Ruth O’Brien on 0276700365.  Feel free to bring a friend who may not be a member of the parish.

There are still envelopes at the back of the churches waiting to be collected. This includes those who are on automatic payment - don’t forget to collect your set of specials envelopes.
If you would like to join planned giving or would like to change from envelopes to automatic payments, please contact the office [email protected] or 388-6953 to arrange.

Knitting for babies and young children. Many thanks to all those who have continued knitting for these children. There is still a great need for these garments and are very much appreciated. Also, any donations of double knitting wool would be appreciated. Leave at the back of the church or ring Margaret 388 2840. Many thanks.

Free Relationship Insurance! Marriage Encounter is running an enrichment weekend for all couples that believe their marriage is important. Without constantly working on improving your relationship complacency can creep in and wreak havoc, sometimes destroying the beautiful relationship you currently have. It’s not worth the risk! Book on the Marriage Encounter weekend now and protect your relationship. You insure your house so why not your marriage?  Join us on the next weekend.
Weekend Date: 12th – 14th May. To be held at Masters Hall SH2 Pahiatua. Ph. 0800 362 686 for more information and to book a place on the weekend

40 Days for Life - More than 13,000 preborn children are aborted every year in New Zealand. That is 36 Children every single day. Women are hurt – physically, mentally and spiritually. Men regret their lost fatherhood. 40 Days of Life is a local solution where people unite in prayer, fasting, and peaceful vigil outside abortion facilities in order to end abortion. Please join your local 40 Days for Life prayer vigil March 1st to April 9th. Together, with God’s grace, we will bring about an end to abortion in New Zealand. Visit fli.org.nz/40daysforlife or ph 04 237-8343.

Assistance needed
At the request of the Red Cross, St Catherine’s College has recently enrolled several refugee students. Red Cross is providing some assistance but the College needs to provide basic equipment and help with Attendance Dues. We have very limited available funding and it will not fully meet this need. If you are able to help with a donation or on-going sponsorship of a student, even in a small way, the College, the students and their families would be most grateful. Please contact the Principal, Mrs Mary Curran on 4-939-8988 or [email protected] . Thank you so much.
St Catherine’s College
Open Days and Evening
Wednesday 31 May 2017 1.15 – 3.15pm Sunday 11 June 2017 1.00 – 3.00pm
Tuesday 8 August 2017 Evening 5.45 - 7.00pm 14 Upper Bourke Street, Kilbirnie, Wellington, 939 8988
 

Volunteers needed to collect for the Stroke Foundation for 1 or 2 hours at either New World in Miramar or Newtown Friday 7th April.
If you can help, contact Robin Boldarin 027 209 7044 or 388 2647

Free Relationship Insurance! Marriage Encounter is running an enrichment weekend for all couples that believe their marriage is important. Without constantly working on improving your relationship complacency can creep in and wreak havoc, sometimes destroying the beautiful relationship you currently have. It’s not worth the risk! Book on the Marriage Encounter weekend now and protect your relationship. You insure your house so why not your marriage?  Join us on the next weekend.
Weekend Date: 12th – 14th May. To be held at Masters Hall SH2 Pahiatua. Ph. 0800 362 686 for more information and to book a place on the weekend.

If you would like to receive the newsletter by email contact the parish office [email protected] with newsletter in the subject line and you will be added to the list.

Accommodation Needed For Refugee Family Lovely refugee family (mother with son and daughter) searching for 3 bedroom home to rent in our parish area.
 Excellent reference available from St Joseph’s parish. Please contact Amanda Calder on 4757994 or Francis Fanning on 3810900 if you can help.

Please remember, if you move or change any of your details, please contact the parish office so your record can be updated Thank you.

St Mary’s College Sevens team started an amazing journey less than two years ago when the team was first formed. In 2016 the girls won every tournament that they entered and are the current National Secondary School Champions. The win has earned the team the right to represent New Zealand at the Sanix World Youth Cup to be held in Fukuoka, Japan in April 2017.
The team needs to raise $30,000 before Easter and are working extremely hard to fundraise and for some families the amount needed to travel is a big challenge.
The team has set up a givealittle page so that you can be a part of our journey and help us to bring home an international title! Any amount no matter how small or big will be gratefully accepted.
https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/stmaryswellington
 
 

The next Little Angels Playgroup at Holy Cross School will be Friday 7th April 1.45 – 3pm in room 11 & 12 at the School. Parents and caregivers are warmly invited to come and join in the fun. All welcome. Please contact Holy Cross School for more informaiton 388 7189 or [email protected]

Weekday Mass timetable for Easter Week
 
Mon 10th –     9am morning Mass at St Patrick’s
 
Tues 11th –    9am morning Mass at St Anthony’s
 
Weds 12th –   9.30am morning Mass at Holy Cross
No evening adoration or Mass at St Patrick’s Church
 
Thurs 13th – no morning Mass at the 3 Churches
 
 
 

On the Sunday Programme on TVNZ 1 this week is a story “Sr Aroha”.  The story looks at the work of a Canterbury raised Missionary of Charity working in Sri Lanka.  The promo for the section can be viewed below.
 
http://tvnz.co.nz/sunday-news/preview-next-week-video-6519390
 

Sonrise Service – Easter Sunday 16th April 6.30am at Mt Victoria Lookout
Hosted by the Salvation Army and orgaisend by the Council of Wellington Churches.