Small Christian Communities aka ‘At Your Word Lord’ groups
These groups were set up as part of the preparations for the 3rd Millennium and a number of them continue to run today meeting for six weeks during Lent and in the run up to Advent each year. The groups follow a programme of guided bible study, reflection and prayer which is supplied by the diocese. For details of when the groups meet, keep an eye on the Newsletter. At least one group meets monthly throughout the year to reflect and pray on the Sunday readings.
Padre Pio group
The group meets after the evening Mass on the last Sunday of each month. The prayer group was founded in 1995 by a group of young adults in the parish who spent some time reflecting in Walsingham. Some of the original group still attend meetings along with parishioners, Sisters and friends. All are welcome. The meeting consists of reflection on some aspect of Padre Pio’s life and work, recitation of the rosary and prayers of intercession.
Padre Pio was born on 25th May 1887 in Petriecela, Southern Italy. He entered the Capuchin noviciate at he age of 15 and was ordained to the priesthood in 1910. On 20th September 1918, the five wounds of Christ’s Passion appeared on his body, making him the first stigmatised priest in the Church’s history. He suffered for 50 years and died on 23rd September 1968. Padre Pio himself founded the groups in order to pray for our Holy Father and the Church. His influence is truly remarkable and he was recently made venerable by Pope John Paul II.