Beginning of August 2026 
 

As August begins, I find myself once again aware of how swiftly time passes. 
 
  At the beginning of his ministry, Jesus knew his time was brief and so began his urgent mission of proclaiming the Good News. 

In this weekend’s Gospel, I am struck by his humanity: grieving the death of John the Baptist, he withdraws to a lonely place, seeking the quiet and space that each of us may need in sorrow. 

Yet the people find him: countless, hungry, and in need. “Give them something to eat yourselves,” he tells the disciples, and the miracle of the loaves and fishes follows. 

That call remains urgent today. Hunger and need endure, even close to home, and I am grateful for all who respond with such kindness and generosity. 

For many of us, August brings the hope of rest, holidays, and quieter contemplation. Our Masses will have less music while the choirs take a well-earned break, and I want to say how deeply grateful I am for their time and talent, and for the faithful care Father Simon and Father Gary give to our parish. I hope this may be a calmer time for us all: a chance to enjoy the sunshine, pray for the rain our land needs, walk in the beautiful places we are privileged to have nearby, read a little more, and renew the spiritual life from which there is, of course, no holiday. 

It has been a pleasure to welcome Father Sergion over these past couple of weeks. He has made himself very useful, saying Holy Mass each day and preparing some interesting dishes for us at the Priests House. Please keep him in your prayers as he returns to a new parish in the Diocese of Kieve. In the next week or so, I will also be delighted to welcome back Bishop Alex from Kieve for a well-earned rest. Time passes swiftly indeed; may we seize the day. 

May St Joseph and the Holy Family bless and protect you all 

Canon Bill Davern