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A couple of weeks ago, I had a call from the president of the SVP conference at The Most Sacred Heart in Ruislip, Sue Jeffrey. We met for coffee with open minds and loads of ideas. Sacred Heart really wanted to help with our activities where they could. Their first thought was the food bank. Sue spent a day there and had a speedy introduction to what we do. She went away with many ideas of where they could help and soon put her first thought into action. Sacred Heart has had an appeal for cleaning products and we will be receiving their donation in the next few days to distribute at the food bank. I hope and believe this will be a great partnership where, working together within the SVP framework, we will be able to achieve great things. The SVP at St Gregory’s and Sacred Heart will continue to be separate conferences and come together where an opportunity is seen.

When refugees are on the move, their most precious item is often their smartphone. These devices are wrapped in several layers of bin liners and tape and kept closer than any other possession, including food and clothes. They are a lifeline to families back home, via apps such as WhatsApp and FaceTime. The phones also give refugees access to vital news as they pass through dangerous and war-torn countries. These devices often get seized or destroyed en-route, adding to the distress of people already fleeing for their lives.

During the first lockdown, the SVP started sending DVDs and CDs of Masses held at our Parish. These were sent to many parishioners who, due to shielding or lack of Internet access, were unable to participate in our services. We are continuing to do this and currently send DVDs to parishioners and two care homes in the area: Brackenbridge House and Whitby Dene. Care homes are still restricting visitors, so this is our way of letting them know that we at St Gregory’s have not forgotten about them.

The SVP’s shop, Gifted, will be open this weekend, after all weekend Masses. It has been a year since we opened for the first time, and we would like to thank you for your support of the shop. The funds we raise helps us continue the work that we do.

Like last year, we will have everything to help you celebrate St Patrick’s Day – cards, statues, rosary beads, key rings and much more. In addition we have a few things for Mothers day too. Please stop by and have a browse. Do let us know if you are looking for something specific and we will try and get it for you.

The SVP Bereavement Care group has been in operation for about four years now. How time flies! They meet in the church hall on the first Wednesday of every month, so why not pop into the hall after mass on Wednesday morning for a cup of tea and a chat with Bridget and her team? Alternatively, you can leave a voice message on 07562 412 986 and a member will get back to you within a day.