| Statues in S. Barnabas' |
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| SAINT BARNABAS - OUR PATRON |
| Not one of the twelve yet counted amongst the apostles, Saint Barnabas accompanied Saint Paul on many missionary journeys. He established the Church in Cyprus and was eventaully martyred, clutching a copy of the Gospel as he died. To this day he is depicted clutching that beloved scroll- as he inspires us to mimic his faithfulness and passion for the 'good news' of Salvation found in Christ Jesus our Lord. Lord God, may we emulate our patron, by holding the Gospel before us at all times. May we always seek to take the good news of the kingdom to the poor and the needy. We ask this in the name of Jesus our living Lord. Amen. |
| THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY |
| We have two shrines in honour of Mary in Church. The first (left) is often used when we sing the Angelus after Mass on Sunday. It is a lovely place in which to light a candle and say a prayer. The seated image (right) honours Our Lady of Walsingham and is used during our monthly Walsingham Mass. This is the image we parade around the Church during our May and October devotions. Hail Mary, full of grace, blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death, Amen. |
| S. JOHN VIANNEY - THE CURE D'ARS |
| John Vianney was born to a peasant family in France. After years of putting himself forward for the priesthood he was finally accepted for training. Poor John struggled at college, failing exams on more than one occassion. Before long he was written off by his superiors. But John was not disuaded. His holiness was such that his reputation, as confessor and man of prayer, spread throughout France- today he is Patron Saint of all parish priests. Another example of God raising the weak and making them strong. Dear Lord, Help us to lead lives of prayer and holiness like Saint John Vianney. May your Spirit shine in our lives, leading others into your sacred presence. Amen |
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| FRANCIS DE SALES |
| In contrast to John Vianney, Francis de Salles was born to an aristocratic family. Francis felt God calling him to 'leave all and follow me.' which led him into the priesthood- a move which his family fiercely opposed. A move which stripped him of his aristocratic comforts. Yet Francis did not mind, he became a wonderful priest, full of holiness and love. He is the patron saint of our Walsingham cell. Heavenly Father, May we be ever willing to give up the things of this world in pursuit of true happiness, just as Saint Francis de Sales did during his life on earth. Amen |
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