Made Redundant At An Older Age: Job Hunting and My Catholic Faith

Last year, my life took an unexpected turn. After decades of unwavering dedication and service, I was made redundant from my job. 

It was a shock to the system, a jarring halt to a routine I had known for so long. 

Suddenly, I found myself in unfamiliar territory—navigating the job market at an older age. 

The experience has been challenging, but my Catholic faith has provided me with the strength and guidance needed to persevere.

That First Sin After Confession...

Confession is a sacred practice within the Catholic faith, providing the faithful with a means to reconcile with God and receive absolution for their sins. 

The sacrament of Confession, also known as Reconciliation, is a profound encounter with God's mercy and love. However, the journey does not end when you leave the confessional; in many ways, it begins anew. 

The struggle with sin persists, and often, one may find themselves committing a sin soon after Confession. 

This article explores the significance of that first sin after Confession, how to cope with it, and how to maintain a state of grace.

The Power of God's Mercy: Understanding the Sacrament of Reconciliation

The Sacrament of Reconciliation stands as a luminous thread, weaving its way through the fabric of Christianity. 

Rooted in the profound concept of God's mercy, this sacrament offers believers a transformative journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal. 

In exploring the power of God's mercy within the context of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, we unveil a sacred space where healing and redemption intersect.

Are You A Cafeteria Catholic?

In the diverse and ever-evolving landscape of modern Catholicism, the term "Cafeteria Catholic" has emerged as a somewhat pejorative label for those who pick and choose which aspects of Church teachings they follow, much like selecting items in a cafeteria. 

But what does it mean to be a Cafeteria Catholic, and how does it affect one's spiritual journey and relationship with the Church?

Discover Our Lady of Lourdes Church, New Milton, Hampshire AND Preparing For Our Centenary!

I'm truly blessed to have Our Lady of Lourdes Church, New Milton as my local church.

Nestled on the edge of the New Forest and bordered by the serene English Channel lies this gem of faith and community: Our Lady of Lourdes Church, New Milton.

With a rich history spanning nearly a century, this church is more than just a place of worship; it is a vibrant hub of community life, embracing a diverse congregation and offering a wide range of spiritual, social, and charitable activities. 

As we approach our centenary in 2027, there's no better time to explore what makes Our Lady of Lourdes a special place and to consider how you can become a part of our welcoming community.

So, You're Too Ashamed to Go to Confession? Read This... And Then Go!

"Confession"...

... for many, the mere mention of the word evokes a sense of dread, a feeling of vulnerability, and a fear of judgement. 

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re one of those who feels ashamed, anxious, or downright terrified at the thought of going to confession. 

But let’s take a moment to breathe, to understand, and to reflect on why confession is not only a vital part of the Catholic faith but also a beautiful, liberating sacrament that offers profound spiritual healing.

Corpus Christi: Celebrating the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist

Corpus Christi, Latin for "Body of Christ," is a significant feast in the liturgical calendar of the Catholic Church. 

Celebrated on the Thursday following Trinity Sunday, this solemnity honours the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist, a core belief of the Catholic faith. 

The origins, significance, and contemporary celebrations of Corpus Christi reflect the profound reverence and love Catholics hold for the Holy Eucharist.