Year of Discernment?

Exams are halfway over - woohoo! Just Boethius' reconciliation of free will and divine foreknowledge, Aquinas' argument of contingency, the life of St. Francis, and the development of the medieval parish to do! So I thought I'd take the opportunity to make an advertisement...

For any young Catholics that are looking for something to do for a year before Uni/ after Uni, there is a programme in Soho, London called St. Patrick's Evangelisation School, which is a great opportunity for growing in one's faith. It involves living in a small community in London, helping out in a busy city centre parish, receiving catechesis from many priests, religious and laypeople, including a degree in Religious Studies from Maryvale Institute. There are pilgrimages to places like Rome, and mini retreats throughout the year, with the aim of helping young Catholics discover the fulness of the Church and discern their Christian vocation. There is also an emphasis on evangelisation, mostly in the West End of London, whether it is doing outreach work for the homeless and lonely, or engaging with the many thousands of people who come to Soho to shop, who often have no sense of Christ's personal love for them.

The School is looking for young people who would be willing to give a year to God in such a way, ready to be formed as witnesses for the New Evangelisation which Pope John Paul II spoke of. The School's motto is, 'Always be ready to give an account of the hope that is within you' (Pet 3.15). Having done the year prior to coming to seminary, I can say it was a grace-filled experience and well worth the time! If anyone would like to find out more about St. Patrick's, they can check out the blog at www.sohope.blogspot.com, or they can go to the website at www.sohope.blogspot.com

Singing Seminarians!

ON JUNE 7th 7.30 PM, Oscott seminary will be hosting a concert as part of our annual intiative to support two charities, one national and one international. This year we're supporting Right to Life, which stands for the rights of the unborn and vulnerable in this country, and Cenacolo, wich is an Italian-founded charity helping people to come to term with addictions (they also have houses and groups in Britain). We've been practicing hard in the seminary schola all year on music, most of it four-part harmony, and some unexpected additions, so if you are around Birmingham on June 7th, do come. There are only 200 places so there's little chance that there will be a seat if you come on the night, so book in advance! See the details on the website accompanied. Spread the word as well...

http://www.oscott.net/JusticePeaceAdvert2008.pdf