THE PICKWICK PAPERS: Join the lovable Mr. Pickwick and his eccentric band of companions as they bumble their way on a rollicking journey through confusing courtships, courtroom shenanigans, questionable duels, and carriage rides gone terribly wrong. Pack your picnic, secure your seat and prepare for an uproarious adventure with The Pickwick Society—where the only certainty is a thoroughly good time will be had by all! Belmont Abbey grounds, Saturday, 8th August at 7.00pm-9.30pm Tickets: adults £18, children (under 16yrs) £8 Box Ofice: 03306 600541 - www.bit.ly/Pickwick-Belmont
HORIZONS OF HOPE TALK: “How to be Human in the Age of A.I.” An introduction to Pope Leo XIV’s encyclical 'Magniica Humanitas’ led by Austen Ivereigh. Join us for an engaging introduction to this landmark document. Saturday, 11th July 10.00am – 12.30pm in The Chapterhouse, Belmont Abbey.
REQUEST FOR READERS: We are looking for additional readers to read at Holy Mass, both Sundays and weekdays especially at the 4pm Vigil Mass. If you would like to be involved in this ministry then please contact Fr Augustine or Michael Hall at mjhall1948@outlook.com.
DOWNSIDE ABBEY FESTIVAL 2026: A series of concerts this Summer in the magnificent setting of Downside Abbey, 16th-19th July. Artists include David Bednall and the Bristol Brass Consort, the Choir of St Mary’s, Wimbledon and the Tenebrae Associate Artists. The highlight of the four-day festival will be a ‘Come and Sing’, directed by Sir John Rutter. Tours of the Abbey Church will take place and there will be an opportunity to see the exhibition ‘Everyday Lives’. More information is available at: https://www.downsideabbey.co.uk/downside-abbey-festival-2026/
HOSPITAL CHAPLAIN: Fr Patrick Lobo is the Catholic Chaplain who makes regular visits. If you or a loved one wants him to visit while in hospital please let him know. Telephone: #07922 323603. In an emergency, or if Fr Patrick is unavailable, please contact Fr Augustine on the parish telephone number. He is always happy to visit.
Meetings are on Wednesdays 11am–12noon : 24th June, both in the Parish Centre, 22nd July in The Chapterhouse (all three are major feasts of the English Church). This is a way of opening our hearts to reading scripture in the Holy Spirit. It is an ancient practice, commended by St Benedict in his Rule. Lectio, whether in a group or on your own, begins with prayer, and then focuses on a brief passage of scripture. Read it several times, silently or aloud, and just allow yourself to sit with it. Be open to the Holy Spirit and to the Word of God - allowing yourself to be moved by it. Let it resonate with you and think about what it is saying to you. This helps us grow in love of scripture, and is a way of growing into prayer.
WOW @ BELMONT: Our next meeting is Tuesday, 7th July at 11.00am in the Parish Centre. A warm welcome to any widows or widowers who would like to join us for a cuppa, cake and friendly chat.
THE BIBLE: MYTH OR HISTORY?: A free illustrated lecture series in Biblical Archaeology with David Rohl. Session 5 - Kadesh-Barnea - The location of Kadesh-Barnea. Aaron’s tomb on Mount Hor. The journey to Abel-Shittim. The death of Moses on Mount Nebo. Saturday, 11th July 2.00pm to 4.00pm, location within Belmont Abbey to be conirmed. Free parking, Free entry. Monthly lectures on the second Saturday of each month.
WELSH CHAMBER ORCHESTRA CONCERT: Friday, 3rd July in OLSM Church, Abergavenny at 7.30pm. "Mozart in Abergavenny." Tickets £20, or £35 including drinks reception after concert. More information is available on the parish website: www.olsm-abergavenny.co.uk
NEEDLE NEEDS: Help is needed, initially for some napkin-hemming for the Monk’s Refectory. If you are able to help please contact either Fr Augustine, Fr Patrick or Fr Christopher.
