DEAR EDITOR: For whatever it is worth I thought I would share a recent experience with all. I have been to many Masses in many Catholic churches internationally and locally over the years but a recent experience has left me even more convinced about the failing nature of our modern Mass.

I was fortunate enough recently to attend a Mass at the Brompton Oratory, Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, London. Apart from the absolutely awesome magnificence of the structure, which I understand is second only to Westminster Cathedral in England, I can only reiterate what one friend of mine has always told me. We need to bring back the solemnity of the Mass.

There was no sharing of the sign of peace, holding hands for the Our Father or loud and peppy music/hymns. No line up of Eucharistic ministers, youngsters liming outside, or congregation members chatting audibly. 

Instead the tabernacle was where it should be - in the middle of the altar, centre of the celebration of the Eucharist! There was a magnificent choir of about 40 boys in full chorale dress who sang beautifully, the most moving hymns in Latin. About six people handled collection.

One priest and one assistant gave out Holy Communion to the congregation who lined up and KNELT in turn at the altar to receive the Eucharist. The priest celebrating the Mass gave a homily relevant to the gospel and even had time to slip in the notices during the service.

The Mass took FIFTY minutes to be exact and left me feeling filled with peace and reverence. There was no rush, no fuss, just a message beautifully delivered in an “ole time” yet refreshing way.

I have three teenage children and I can guarantee that, having heard them out about “Mass” and “church”, they would be running ahead of me to church had they the opportunity to enjoy this kind of Mass.
CM, Blue Range 

DEAR EDITOR: We would like to thank all who assisted in making our September 23 fundraising barbecue a success, in particular those who lent a helping hand at short notice, as well as those who gave financial and other forms of support during the preparatory phase.

We thank in a special way all who supported the event by purchasing tickets; we thank you for your patience and your understanding during the wait.

Our target was achieved and the monies raised will go towards funding the ongoing activities organised by the various ministries of the Archdiocesan Family Life Commission.
Raymond and Tricia Syms,
Executive Couple, on behalf of the Executive of the Archdiocesan Family Life Commission