We are excited to announce the launch of a new Lectionary in England and Wales, set for Advent 2024. This significant update is part of an ongoing effort to revise liturgical translations, ensuring that biblical texts are more faithfully rendered from the original languages and easier to proclaim during services.
The Lectionary is a vital book used in our churches, containing the readings for Masses on Sundays and weekdays, for saints’ feast days, sacraments, and other special occasions, such as funerals.
The Lectionary, seen on the ambo in our churches, is divided into four large volumes.
The new Lectionary aims to improve the accuracy and proclaimability of the biblical translations used in our liturgies. This change is a key part of the Church’s commitment to enhancing our worship experience and bringing us closer to the true meaning of the Scriptures.
Cost and sponsorship
The cost of the new Lectionaries is a necessary expense for our parish. The four-volume Lectionary for the Ambo is £695, and we need a set for both St. Joseph’s and St. Swithun’s Churches. Additionally, the Chapel Edition, which will be used in HTH Chapel, is £395. Parish Mass Books also needing replacing and these are £4.95 each.
We are incredibly grateful to those who have already donated and to the family who has generously sponsored the Book of the Gospels. However, we still need further support to cover these costs.
We invite parishioners to consider making a donation or sponsoring a volume of the Lectionary, a few Parish Mass Books, or the Book of the Gospels. This is a rare, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to contribute to the spiritual life of our parish.
Your generosity will ensure that our parish continues to thrive and provide meaningful worship experiences for all. Thank you for your support and commitment to our community.
Ways to donate:
- Tap and pay machines: Available in the foyer of St. Joseph’s Church.
- QR code: Scan the code below to make a donation online.
- Cash or cheque: Place your contribution in an envelope marked ‘Sponsorship: New Lectionary’ and put it in the collection bags or hand it into the parish office.