Welcome to St Wilfrid's Parish in the Heart of Preston
Welcome to St Wildrid's
5th Sunday of Lent
‘Unbind him and let him go’
As we approach Holy Week, our readings focus on the theme of being restored to life. The Scripture is full of hope, inviting us to trust in God’s promise of resurrection and eternal life.
The Israelites, living in exile in Babylon, lack hope and direction (First Reading). But the Lord speaks through the prophet Ezekiel, telling how he will raise them up. He will put his Spirit within them, giving them new life, and restore them to their homeland.
This prophesy is fulfilled in the Gospel. Here, God’s love and power over death are made known as Lazarus is raised by Jesus, the One who brings life where there is death. Jesus reveals himself as ‘the resurrection and the life’, calling us to believe and trust in him. His deep compassion and love are highlighted as he weeps with Mary and Martha.
The Psalm encourages us to cry out to the Lord with longing and honesty. In expressing deep sorrow for our sins, we can trust in the Lord’s ‘mercy and plentiful redemption’.
St Paul (Second Reading) reminds us that living by Christ’s Spirit – the Spirit of truth, love, compassion and justice – gives us hope, and brings true life and peace.
In my prayer today, I might reflect deeply on who Jesus really is, and what it is that he brings. What might living by his Spirit look like for me this week?
(With thanks to St Beuno's Outreach)
ARTWORK
Welcome
St Wilfrid’s is an active Catholic parish. in the heart of Preston, served by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), with a history going back over 200 years. As Parish Priest I am delighted to welcome you to St Wilfrid’s. This website gives you details of the many activities of our dedicated parishioners as well as the history of this church. Please contact us for more information or if there is anything we can do.
Wishing you every blessing.
Chris Pedley, S.J.
Click here for some useful materials from the Jesuit parish in Newcastle, to help us make the most of the season of Lent.
Pope Leo's March Prayer Intention
For disarmament and peace
Let us pray that nations move toward effective disarmament, particularly nuclear disarmament, and that world leaders choose the path of dialogue and diplomacy instead of violence.
Visit the website of Pray With the Pope
Visit the website of Pray As You Go for a reflection on this month's video.
Pope Leo's Lenten Message
Abstain from harsh words and rash judgement
This season of Lent, Pope Leo XIV invites Catholics to open ourselves to listening, fasting, and community, urging us to abstain from words of hatred in order to make space for words of hope and peace.
