World Day of Prayer 2026

The World Day of Prayer dates back to the 19th century when Christian women in the United States and Canada initiated a variety of activities in support of women’s involvement in missionary work at home and abroad.  The emphasis on women praying together led to annual days of prayer.  This has evolved over the years with more denominations and countries taking part.  Today 146 countries are involved across the globe on the same day.   Continue reading “World Day of Prayer 2026”

St Stephen’s Patronal Festival 2025

Canon Edward, our parish priest, agreed with The Archdiocese to transfer The Feast of St Stephen from December 26th to July 13th. His objective was to open up the Feast Day to a larger section of St. Stephen’s congregations. Mass on Sunday 13th was celebrated at 10:30 only. Over 200 members of the 9:30 and 11:30 congregations took the opportunity to praise God as a unified congregation. Continue reading “St Stephen’s Patronal Festival 2025”

Hospital Chaplaincy Volunteering

About three years ago I spotted a leaflet left on the pew in front of me at church entitled “Chaplaincy volunteers – is this for you?” Canon Edward often encourages us to find a way to share our faith, rather like the 72 “other” disciples when they were sent out by Jesus. In our day to day lives it’s not easy to find the right moment or the right words, but it occurred to me that it might be easier in a hospital setting. Continue reading “Hospital Chaplaincy Volunteering”

Tribute to Ron Smith

Ronald James Smith was born in Kennington, south London, and lived in that area for much of his early life.  He was one of seven children.

Growing up in the war years and just after is very different from today.  Dad left school at 14.  Over the years he has dropped a few things into conversation.  He was made head boy.  It was suggested he should consider further education. It makes you think his life could have been very different if he had had the same opportunities as today.

Continue reading “Tribute to Ron Smith”