Extraordinary

We were surprised on Tuesday morning - during our farewell breakfast for Edna - by Fr John Parsons, a friend of Fr Alexander's from seminary. He was making an impromptu call on his holiday. Fr John regularly offers Mass in the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite, according to the provisions made by our Holy Father in his letter Summorum Pontificum. Never slow to take an opportunity to learn more about the richness of our Faith, particularly one so fast-growing yet about which we may know little, we invited him to give a lecture on the history of the Mass, and how to pray along with the Extraordinary form. We were then especially privileged to pray the Mass as he offered it. Thank you, Father John, for helping us to more of the depth of our Catholic Faith.

St Therese of Liseux

Last month, we were privileged to spend time with the relics of St Therese of Liseux. St Therese was a French Carmelite who did not travel after leaving Carmel, yet is Patroness of Missions. Aged only 24 when she died, her short writings and prayers — often described as a shower of rose petals — have led millions towards the God whom she sought so completely.

We led an hour of reflective music and readings when she was at the Carmelite Church; had time in silent prayer with her at Westminster Cathedral; and took part in the Youth para-liturgy on the final night of her tour.