Newsletter - 5 October
Inclusive Mass: Saturday 18 October at 3pm
Discovering this new initiative in our parish calendar may have stirred two different reactions.
The first might be the thought that it concerns only those with special needs – and perhaps only people with very specific special needs.
The second might be a concern: why do we need a separate Mass when all are already welcome at every Sunday service? Or even a worry for our parish: are we not inclusive enough as we are?
Both reactions are understandable. Yes, an Inclusive Mass is prepared especially for people with special needs: it may be shorter, use simpler language, be adapted to particular sensory needs in terms of light or sound, and offer greater accessibility. It is designed to welcome everyone, including those with behavioural challenges or developmental delays, helping to reduce stress for them and their families.
And yes, an Inclusive Mass does not mean we can forget that welcoming everyone is at the heart of God’s call to our Parish Community. He loves, cherishes, and protects each person as His precious creation. As Jean’s mum, I can testify the Parish is already very welcoming!
Still, could this not be an opportunity to consider the Inclusive Mass not as insignificant but rather as a new step forward for all of us? Jesus knew how to make a detour to meet someone in need – and He calls us to do the same. He knew how to love someone so deeply as to form a relationship with them, not ignoring their disability or illness, but opening new perspectives for a richer life – and He calls us to do the same. Finally, He asked His followers to carry His message to those people and to make space among them – and that is now our role: to welcome, to love, and to invite people with special needs, adults as well as children, along with their carers and families, to the Eucharist.
The Inclusive Mass is a chance to invite more freely and to care more attentively, especially for those who may hesitate to come to church regularly. It will also be an opportunity to highlight and support the work of Caritas St Joseph’s, our diocesan charity, which works “to empower people with disabilities to share their gifts, find fulfilment, and take part in the life of the Church.” Anyone who would like to explore what volunteering might look like is warmly welcome too!
Anne-Charlotte Rambaud
Focus of the week
FIRST HOLY COMMUNION
Registration is open for children from year 3 and above to receive First Holy Communion in May 2026.
Sunday morning sessions : 9.45 am - 11.00am.
Last day to apply : 20 October 2025.
Please contact Caterina by email (cockfosterspa@rcdow.org.uk) or the parish office to register.
Creation Concert with
Jo Collins
Saturday 11 October – 7.30pm in the church
No tickets - first come first served
Refreshments in the hall
Collections in aid of the Parish
Notices of the Week
Download the newsletter to check out the notices of the week