This year has been a busy year for us here in Hayes in so many ways.  Especially, it has been so in terms of Catechetics, with 106 children receiving their First Communions, with 50 young adults receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation, with 10 people being fully received into the Church via the RCIA process, to name but a few of the important moments.  We take this opportunity to thank those parishioners who have given of their time and talents to help share their faith and walk with others who are seeking to grow in faith.

I would particularly like to thank Anna Dupelycz who has, with dedication, coordinated all the different sacramental programmes this year and, indeed, over the last 14 years, rising to the various challenges that naturally accompany this onerous mission ? not to mention the support that she has given to me and many others.

However, for some time now, I was aware that Anna has been looking for a new challenge, to get her teeth stuck into.  Sadly for us, but positively for Anna and Sts Peter and Paul Parish (Northfields), Anna has been offered the position of Pastoral Assistant in Northfields.  It is a positive move forward and will give Anna the opportunity to further develop her skills and talents in the service of another Christian family.  It will involve even more responsibility and new challenges.  I am aware that this will come as a surprise to you, as it did to me when I received formal notification from Anna, even though Anna has been very open in speaking to me about her hopes.   There are very few opportunities like this, that arise in the Church community, and it is an exciting time for Anna. 

I hope that you will join with me in congratulating Anna on this achievement and wishing her every blessing in the new post.  I am sure you will also join with me in thanking Anna for the many years of service. 

Anna will be taking up her new post on 1st September and we are hoping to have a celebration and presentation with Mass on Saturday 6th September at 6.30pm followed by a reception in the Hall.  This will give us a wonderful opportunity to thank Anna for all that she has contributed over 14 years.