By Fr Patrick Brennan

On Wednesday 19 March, The Solemnity of St Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a Mass of Confirmation took place at St Francis of Assisi, Bedworth.

There were children from Year 6 at St Francis school and three other parishioners who made a profession of faith and received the gift of the Holy Spirit. Bishop Richard Walker, the auxiliary bishop for our area of the Archdiocese, visited the parish school in the afternoon and celebrated the Mass in the evening, confirming the candidates during a beautiful Mass that was celebrated with reverence and dignity.

There was a choir led by Mary, comprised of members of the three parishes that are working closely together; Holy Family Coventry, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Bulkington and St Francis Bedworth; altar servers from all three parishes, led by Robert, served at Mass.

It was the first time all three parishes had come together in a joint celebration in church. The school headteacher, Sarah Hubbard, and the Year 6 Teacher Michelle Rogers, prepared the children for the sacrament and Moira and Margaret, parishioners from Our Lady’s in Bulkington, prepared those children from outside of St Francis school.

Con McHugh took photographs of the event that captured the character of the Confirmation Mass perfectly.

Fr Patrick, our parish priest, has written a short poem about St Joseph, who is his confirmation saint's name, on this very special feast day!

Joseph, Husband of Mary.
A man of dreams 
Woken in sleep. 

Divine words 
Urgently spoken
by the voice of an angel 
calling, reassuring 
“Do not be afraid!”
These words in your heart
affectionately ponder, resolutely keep!

Mary, who you love 
deeply, truly, faithfully
can be your loving wife,
secure in the home of your heart forever.

The Son conceived within 
is through the Holy Spirit,
the very imprint of God
falls gently upon you
blessed Joseph…
guide and counsellor, 
loving inspiration, Christ’s earthly Father.

Fr Patrick Brennan 19th March 2024 ©

Background
Fr Patrick Brennan is the Priest in charge Holy Family (Coventry), Our Lady of the Sacred Heart (Bulkington), and St Francis of Assisi (Bedworth). All three churches are part of the Coventry and Nuneaton Deanery.

Confirmation Photos

Mass Livestream Recording

Photos of the Church following Recent Redecoration