As we start these nine days of prayer we focus today on those groups that serve the church and the parish.

I sincerely thank all those who quietly make the day to day activities work smoothly within the parish. For the church: I thank the sacristans, church cleaners, collections counters and the flower group for the tireless work they do. For most of us we do not see you yet I hope we all realise the benefits you give us. The Admin and bookshop people do a wonderful job in making this parish open and inviting. The Finance and fund raising group continue to make us able to do what we need to do. It takes countless hours, but on behalf of the parish I thank you. The safeguarding team has become well established; but I hope in the context of recent news, we all appreciate that they help us provide a safe and respectful environment in which the work with youth and those vulnerable amongst us can continue. The catering group continues to enable us to share with one another not just in our religious services, but our social gatherings. I also thank gratefully the communication groups of Edgeways and the web team. Both are vital in making the vast expanse of activities within the parish visible.

There are well over 100 if not 200 people involved in all of the activities listed today. My hope in praying for all of them we are able to thank them, and appreciate their work.

Go to the page to see the groups and pray for them.

Keith P. McMillan, S.J.