A Kingdom of Hope

Fr Deepu RCJ

The Feast of Christ the King invites us to consider what Christ’s kingship truly means. In the anointing of David, Israel recognises a leader who has walked among them, shared their burdens, and guided them with a shepherd’s heart. This prepares us to understand Christ, whose reign is not marked by dominance but by a love that restores and unites.

Saint Paul presents Christ as the one through whom all creation came to be and in whom everything finds its coherence. His authority is not imposed from above; it is revealed in the gift of reconciliation. He brings clarity where there is confusion and binds together what is broken. Giving thanks for the inheritance we share in him helps us recognise that belonging to Christ shapes how we think, choose, and live.

In the Gospel, Christ’s kingship reaches its deepest expression on the cross. There, in a place of weakness, he reveals the strength of divine mercy. The promise he speaks to the repentant thief shows the heart of his kingdom, a kingdom grounded in forgiveness, hope, and the restoration of every human life. To acknowledge Christ as King is not only to honour his sovereignty but to let his truth, compassion, and fidelity guide our own daily conduct. His reign grows wherever justice is pursued, relationships are healed, and lives are shaped by mercy.

Reflect: Where is Christ inviting me to reflect his compassion, courage, or integrity?

Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe - Year C1

First Reading: 2 Samuel 5:1-3
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 122(121) Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
Second Reading: Colossians 1:12-20
Gospel: Luke 23:35-43

Parish Mass Book Year C Volume 2, Pg 167-169

Confirmation Program

Confirmation Programme 2025/6. Forms are available from the table at the back of the church behind the pews. Baptised individuals from Yr9 and under 18 in Jan 2026 are eligible. Please return forms by Nov 30th together with a copy of a valid baptism certificate to be registered on this year’s programme starting in Jan 2026.

Parish Diary

23/11 – World Youth Sunday “Second Collection”

09.30 am – Mass (Presider: Fr Vik) with children’s liturgy; followed by SVP Coffee Morning
11.30 am – Mass (Presider: Fr Vik)
03.00-05.00 pm – Sinulog Dance Practice (Large Hall)
06.00 pm – Mass (Presider: Fr Deepu)

24/11 – Monday

10:30 am – CWL Advent Wreath and flower arranging (Hall and Sacristy)

25/11 – Tuesday

10.00 am – Mass (Presider: Fr Deepu)
11.00am-02.00 pm – Friendship Club (Hall)
06.00-07.15 pm – Bible Study (Sacristy)

26/11 – Wednesday

10.00 am – Mass (Presider: Fr Deepu)
05.30-06.30 pm – First Holy Communion Session (Large Hall)
06.00 pm – Finance Council (Sacristy)

27/11 – Thursday

09.45-11.00 am – SVP Thursday Market
10.00 am – Mass (Presider: Fr Deepu); followed by Adoration for Vocation with confession
07.00 pm – Legion of Mary Meeting (Sacristy)
(For home visits, please get in touch with the parish)
07.15-08.45 pm – RCIA (Parish Hall)

28/11 – Friday

10.00 am – Mass (Presider: Fr Vik)
11.00 am – Wedding Rite
11.30 am – Craft Club (Small Hall)
03.00 pm– Divine Mercy Devotion (Chapel)
07.00 pm – Perpetual Novena to Snr Sto Niño (Chapel)

29/11 – Saturday

11.00-11.50 am – Adoration organised by FIHM
11.05-11:50 am – Confession
12.00 nn – Mass (Presider: Fr Deepu)
12.30 pm – EMHC Training
04.30 pm – Filipino Mass (Presider: Fr Vik / Fr Al)
06.00-08.00 pm – Sinulog Dance Practice (Large Hall)

30/11 – First Sunday of Advent

09.30 am – Mass (Presider: Fr John) with children’s liturgy
10.00 am - 03.00 pm – Tamil Chaplaincy Exam (Hall)
11.30 am – Mass (Presider: Fr Deepu)
12.45 pm – Baptism
06.00 pm– Mass (Presider: Fr Vik)

Recitation of the Rosary (Tue-Wed and Fri) at the Presbytery Chapel after Mass or in the Church if available.
*P.C. – Presbytery Chapel

MASS TIMES & INTENTIONS

23 Nov – Christ the King (Green)

09.30 am – For Holy Souls in Purgatory
11.30 am – For +Walter Campling
06.00 pm – For persecuted Christians

25 Nov – Tue. Feria of Week 34 in OT (Green)

10.00 am – For Faustina Simons (Bday); for Agnes Adeniran (Bday)

26 Nov – Wed. Feria of Week 34 in OT (Green)

10.00 am – For persecuted Christians

27 Nov – Thu. Feria of Week 34 in OT (Green)

10.00 am – For +Karl; for +George Mash; for Faustina Simons

28 Nov – Fri. Feria of Week 34 in OT (Green)

10.00 am – For Mary Judge

29 Nov – Sat. Feria of Week 34 in OT (Green)

12.00 nn – For Connie and Eric Murrell
04.30 pm – For Filipino Community

The Pope’s November Intention: “For the prevention of suicide”

Let us pray that those who are struggling with suicidal thoughts might find the support, care, and love they need in their community, and be open to the beauty of life.

Let us pray for the sick

Michael Thompson | June O’Driscol | Harry Burke | Christine A. | Mary and David | Peggy H. | Fr Brett

Coming up…

Welcome, Rev Fr Alfonso Heredia, RCJ

Fr Alfonso, a Filipino Rogationist priest, is expected to arrive in the U.K. on 26 November. He will be the newest member of the Rogationist Mission Station in Westcliff and Rochford. He will be focussed on serving at Saint Teresa in Rochford while based in Westcliff. Aside from working in the Philippines, he was a missionary priest in Vietnam and Indonesia.

Join us in thanking the Lord of the Harvest for another servant-leader in our local church.

RCIA

Sessions begin on November 27th 7:15-8:45pm. The venue is the parish hall, refreshments provided, all welcome.

EXTRAORDINARY MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION Initial Training Invitation

We invite practicing Catholics in good standing to consider becoming Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.

Training Session: Saturday, 29 November, 12:30 - 1:30 PM Sacristy

Basic Requirements: • Confirmed Catholic living according to Church teaching • Regular Mass attendance • Age 16 or older • Commitment to reverent service

Come and explore how you might serve Christ in this profound way.

Filipino Community Mass

Saturday, 29 November 2025, 04.30 PM

Flower Preparation–CWL Volunteers

20th Dec, Sat, 10.30AM-12.30PM, Small Hall

Christmas Church Decoration

Volunteers needed!
22nd December, Monday, 10.30 AM

Baptism Seminar Schedule

Baptism Seminars for parents of children up to 6 years old. Saturday, 3rd of January 2026 at 2.00 pm in the church sacristy. To register, please email your name and the name and age of your child to: westcliff@brcdt.org

Junior Legion of Mary

We’re thrilled to share that the Junior Legion of Mary is launching soon! If you’re a young person looking to deepen your faith with the guidance of Mother Mary, we’d love for you to join. Just reach out to any member of the Legion of Mary, and we’ll be happy to help you get started!

Join St Helen’s SVP Volunteers

Pope Leo XIV reminds us: “The measure of our faith is found in how we welcome the stranger, feed the hungry and heal the broken.” Help us live Christ’s love by supporting our community’s most vulnerable. Your compassion can transform lives. Volunteer with us—because love for the poor is the Church’s foundation.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:

We invite practicing Catholics who love their faith and want to deepen their relationship with God through service to explore these meaningful opportunities. The formation and training we provide will enrich your own spiritual journey while preparing you to serve others with joy.

“Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion”
”First Holy Communion Catechists”
”Marshals”

Speak with our volunteer Health and Safety Representative after Mass or the priest or contact the parish office. Training and support will be provided for all roles.

 

Discover Your Ministry: Serving in Our Parish Community

VIKTOR EMMANUEL AURELLANA

·

9 JUL

Read full story

LEGACY AWARENESS INVITATION

Help preserve our beloved church for future generations! Join our donors by leaving a gift in your will that can sustain our sacred mission. Your legacy gift will help cover essential running costs—lighting, heating, security—while supporting building repairs, sacred music, and pastoral care for our community’s most vulnerable members. Every gift, regardless of size, creates lasting impact. Thank you for helping ensure this house of prayer continues to inspire and serve.

Religious Store

For all your prayer aids, liturgical materials (hosts), religious statues, and images, please visit the religious store at Our Lady and Saint Helen, Westcliff.
Shop Opening Times:
Sundays: after all Masses (10.30 AM, 12.30 PM, & 07.00 PM)
Weekdays: Tuesdays to Fridays 10.30 AM
Saturdays: 11.00 AM

SVP

We are looking for more groups to help with the cooking at the centre to share the load.
Can your group spare one Sunday evening each month to help? St Vincent’s Kindness Kitchen needs volunteers to purchase, cook, serve, and clean up after meals for those in need. From 6:30 to 8:00 PM, you’ll provide food along with comfort, dignity, and community to those facing tough times. Our equipped kitchen awaits; we just need your time and compassion. Whether you’re friends, coworkers, or part of a faith group, your kindness can unite people over a hot meal. Will you help? Contact us today! Dan 07930287471

Donation Options
📲 Text SVPSouthend to 70025 to donate £5.
You will be charged £5 plus a standard rate msg. Text Giving T&C's | St Vincent de Paul Society https://svp.org.uk/text-giving-tcs
💻 Or make a single of your choice or set up a monthly gift:
https://svp.org.uk/donate?project=St%20Vincent%27s%20Centre%20Southend

🔗 JustGiving Page
https://www.justgiving.com/page/stvincents-1730217847673
If you’re a UK taxpayer, please remember to gift aid your donation!

Vacancies

Headteacher – St Peter’s Primary School, Romford Deadline for applications: 12:00 (noon), Tuesday 6th January 2026

Headteacher - Holy Family Primary School, Benfleet Deadline for applications: 09:00, Wednesday 28th January 2026

LOURDES WITH OUR DIOCESE:

Join Bishop Alan and pilgrims from across our diocese in Lourdes next summer: Friday 17th - Friday 24th July 2026. Booking details will be available in the new year.

ITA AD JOSEPH: CATHOLIC MENS GROUP

FAITH, FRIENDS, FOOD

THIS IS A GROUP FOR CATHOLIC MEN WHO ARE OVER 18 LOOKING TO BE PROACTIVE IN THEIR FAITH AND HELPING IN THEIR PARISH AND SURROUNDING PARISHES.
WE ARE LOOKING TO BUILD A BROTHERHOOD IN OUR ONE HOLY CATHOLIC AND APOSTOLIC FAITH LOCALLY.
FIND OUT MORE: WHATSAPP Martin: 07515 931567

ROSARIUM: Catholic Young Adult Group

Ave Maria!
Hey guys, We have a Catholic young adult group at St Helens Catholic Church in Westcliff on sea.
We will have prayers in the Church. We will say the Rosary, and a few extra short prayers, which include the St Michael prayer, and a prayer to Our Lady of Sorrows, Mary.
See poster for details, and WhatsApp me if you're coming.
Looking forward to seeing you! 
Thanks, Khenz

Regular Reminders

CHURCH SAFETY GUIDELINES

To ensure the safety, comfort, and peaceful worship experience for everyone in our church community, we kindly ask all parishioners to observe the following important guidelines:

Fire Safety: Do not block fire extinguishers at any time. Please ensure these emergency devices remain easily accessible and unobstructed.

Pushchairs and Buggies: Leave buggies in designated areas only. Please do not place pushchairs or buggies along the aisles, as they create safety hazards and block emergency exits.

Church Entrances: Keep doorways clear. Please do not sit or stand at church doors, as this impedes safe entry and exit for all congregants.

Children's Supervision: Parents must supervise their children at all times. Please do not allow children to wander unattended within the church premises.

For crying children: We understand that children can become upset. If your child cries for an extended period, please kindly step outside with them until they are calm, then feel free to return to continue worship.

PARISH CAR PARK GUIDELINES

To ensure safe and equitable parking for everyone attending our services, please observe the following car park guidelines:

Our Parking Facilities: Two parking areas available on parish grounds

10 standard spaces in each area
1 designated disabled space in each area

Emergency Access - CRITICAL

· DO NOT park in ways that block emergency vehicle access
· Ensure fire engines, ambulances, and other emergency services can reach our premises
· Leave adequate space around fire exits and emergency routes

When Our Car Parks Are Full

Please consider these nearby alternative parking:

📍 North Road Car Park
North Road, Westcliff-On-Sea, SS1
Approximately 4-minute walk to church

📍 Western Esplanade
Western Esplanade, Westcliff-On-Sea, SS0
Approximately 10-minute walk to church

Masses at Saint Helen’s

Weekday Masses: 10:00AM
Saturday Mass: 12:00NN
Sunday Mass: 09:30AM / 11:30AM / 06:00PM
2nd Mass on Holy Days: 07:00PM
No Mass on Mondays

Mass Intentions

For Any Mass Intentions, please see the priests or call them during office hours (Tuesdays to Fridays 9-1pm) Tel. No.: 01702 342324
Alternatively:
Mass Intention Envelopes are available. Mass Intentions are published in the parish newsletter (available for collection) and posted on the Parish's Facebook page.

Sacramental Services

• Please email our parish office or contact any priests for Baptisms, weddings, and Funerals.

• Marriage Preparations: Couples planning to marry in or outside the parish should contact the parish office at least six (6) months in advance.

• The Sacrament of Reconciliation: Thursdays 10:45-11:25 am; Saturdays 11:15-11:50 am or approach the priest to get an appointment.

• The Sacrament of the Sick: Please contact the parish office for requests about visiting the housebound / Care Home residents.

Pre-Cana Seminar

Register: Email names and contact numbers to FrViktorAurellana@brcdt.org

St Helen’s Minibus Service

If you know anyone who needs a lift to church for 11.30 Mass, please let the office know, and Ray Newman will be notified.

We are seeking a commitment of one Sunday a month, between 10:30 and 13:00, to transport parishioners to the 11.30 Mass. No special driving licence is required, but you must feel comfortable driving the vehicle. Escorts only need to help passengers get on and off the minibus. 
Please contact Ray Newman on 07775 769826.

Many thanks to all who support the maintenance of our Parish Minibus. 

An Invitation from the CWL

Catholic Women's League Westcliff Section here at St Helen's church welcomes ladies of all ages to come along and see if you can join us in any of our activities. We support our parish, our priests and our parishioners as best we can and also fundraise for different charities.

We have a WhatsApp group which is a great support to members and friends. We also have social outings to meet and chat and enjoy each other’s company. If you would like to know more please talk to any of us at our coffee mornings or contact Elizabeth, evupsher@gmail.com or through the parish office.

Friendship Club!

Join the Friendship Club of St. Helen's Parish in Westcliff! Discover meaningful connections and laughter every Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Parish Hall. All are welcome!

Craft Club!

Join us for our weekly Craft Club every Friday at 11:30 am. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a beginner, explore your artistic side, make new friends, and enjoy a break from daily life. Bring your projects or start something new with us. Let's create, inspire, and connect. All are welcome!

Troubled Marriages?

If your marriage needs support, call us. Help is available for couples ready to improve their relationship. Retrouvaille can also assist if you're considering separation but want to try again. Please share this with anyone in need; they might be looking for help without knowing where to turn.

Please call or email in confidence and without obligation.
+ 44 788 729 6983 / + 44 797 338 0443. 
E-mail to: retrouvailleukinfo@gmail.com
www.retrouvaille.org.uk

Westcliff-on-Sea
Our Lady Help of Christians & Saint Helen

Official FB Page 
https://www.facebook.com/sainthelenswestcliff

Instagram 
https://www.instagram.com/st.helens_westcliff

Newsletter & Hall Bookings Email: 
westcliff@brcdt.org

The Brentwood Diocesan Trust Registered Charity Number: 
234092

Administrator: 
Fr. Viktor Aurellana, RCJ      
Responsible of the Rogationist Presence in Westcliff & Rochford; and Religious Community Treasurer

Assistants: 
Fr. Deepu Augustine Plathottathil, RCJ
Fr. Alfonso Heredia, RCJ 

Office Staff: 
Patricia Volante

Bulletin Collaborator: 
Carmel Allen

Safeguarding Reps: 
Lucy and Gary Watts
Email: Safeguarding-westcliff@ brcdt.org

Health and Safety Rep: 
Agnes Adeniran

Health and Safety Training Officer (Marshal Coordinator): 
Bimbani Mpande

Finance Coordinator: 
Cherry Ann Castro-Kelly

Volunteer Driver: 
Riccardo Volante

Hall Coordinator: 
Peter Revell