st-josephs-dorking

Admissions to Catholic Schools and the Certificate of Catholic Practice

Sun, 06 Sep 2026 14:01:32 GMT

NEW INFORMATION Admission to Catholic Schools and the Certificate of Catholic Practice:- We now have available the ‘Mass attendance cards ’ which will be required by parents as a record of weekly attendance at Mass. Initially the card needs to be filled in, a photo of the child attached to the card (c/o parents /guardian) and a parish register created. Once a card has been created for each child, the family will need to present themselves to the priest for the card to be signed and stamped each weekend.

Someone suggested this would be somewhat like a loyalty card for a coffee shop! Well, it is, only you won’t get a free coffee after 10 stamps, but you will get a “Certificate of Catholic Practice” provided Mass has been attended weekly for two years, prior to making application to over-subscribed schools, such as St. Andrew’s, Leatherhead.

A reminder then, to parents of the changes to school admissions policies where schools, such as St. Andrew’s, Leatherhead, are over-subscribed. PLEASE SEE THE DETAIL on the parish web-site at: https://www.sjcc.org.uk/schools A certificate of Catholic practice, will now be required, such certificate can only be given where there is weekly attendance at Mass for at least two years and the ‘attendance card’ has been stamped by the priest.

Youth Group at St Joseph’s

Sun, 06 Sep 2026 10:22:11 GMT

Parish Youth Group: Recommences on Thursday 24th September at 6 pm. Young people of Secondary School age are welcome. Registration will take place and, amongst other things, supper will be provided. Further details available via sj.youth.dorking@gmail.com

Children's Liturgy

Sun, 06 Sep 2026 09:44:21 GMT

Children’s Liturgy at 10.00 am Mass:- Will resume next Sunday, 13th Sept. If you are bringing your children to the liturgy for the first time, personal details will need to be given for administrative purposes. Thank you for your understanding. A calendar of dates will be available next weekend.

CONFIRMATION & FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PROGRAMMES 2026 /2027

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 17:05:59 GMT

Application forms for the next academic year’s respective programmes are available at the entrances to the church. If you have a child in year 3 or above (First Holy Communion) or in year 9 or above, (Confirmation) then, provided that you and your children are in regular attendance at Mass you and they will be able to join the programmes. The deadline for returning application forms is mid-night pm on Sunday 11th October 2026, once this deadline has expired for both programmes, no child will be accepted onto either the First Holy Communion or Confirmation programme until the following year, 2027/2028.

If you know of families where children and young people should be preparing for these sacraments, PLEASE encourage them to be coming along to Mass and practicing their faith.

RIDE AND STRIDE

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 13:32:18 GMT

St Joseph’s Church is an historic building in Surrey and the ‘Surrey Church Preservation Society’ was set up to help preserve such places of worship .

Saturday 12 September 2026 is St Joseph's Ride & Stride Day – a fundraising event and a fun and interesting way to raise money for St.Joseph’s and other Churches in Surrey. All the money we raise goes to the Surrey Churches Preservation Trust and half of it is then returned to St Joseph's for the upkeep of our Church. Please support this event .

Sponsorship forms to ride or stride are available at the Church entrances, so you can join the fun with a sponsored walk/cycle around our local churches to raise funds for Surrey Churches Preservation Trust .

We will need volunteers to be available to assist with water supplies and showing people where the ‘facilities’ are as they ride or stride from Church to Church.

THE WALKS - To begin at 10am

Countryside (longer) walk , led by Louise Chenery, seasoned leader of A and B annual pilgrimage walks. Distance: approximately 8 miles. Time: approximately 4 hours. From St. Joseph's , up steeply to St. Barnabas, Ranmore, then down into the valley towards St. John the Evangelist, Wotton. Pause for refreshment at The Wotton Hatch pub. From there, onward to Holy Trinity, Westcott, and across the Nower back to St. Joseph's. This walk requires good footwear and is for regular walkers.

Town, shorter and mainly level walk , led by Hazel Fitz-Gibbon. Distance approximately 4 miles return.

Time: 2 1/2 -3 hours, with stop for picnic lunch. From St. Joseph’s into Dorking to the Friends' Meeting House opposite Waitrose. From there down Junction Road, calling briefly at the Crossways Baptist church. Across West St. to visit URC, before visiting St. Martin's. From St. Martin's along meadow Bank, across A24 to station, taking the footpath under the railway to Pixham, St. Mary. Picnic on the Pixham recreation ground before returning via the former watermill (public path through private garden) to Dorking and St. Joseph's. Everyone welcome and we hope for the opportunity to have a chat to members of the other churches.

New Beginnings

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 12:23:01 GMT

We think and pray for those who are making new beginnings, maybe leaving a first born at the school gate for the first time, for those starting at secondary school and the not so familiar surroundings, those going off to tertiary education and for those who are leaving their last born at an educational establishment.

These are times of change, concern, even worry, upset and apprehension, both for youngsters and for their parents in these new circumstances, we commend them to the intercession of the Holy Family of Nazareth, that they be consoled, strengthened and inspired by Jesus, Mary and Joseph. To quote St. Teresa of Avila “Let nothing disturb thee, nothing affright thee, all things are passing, patients gains all. He / She who serves God wants for nothing, for He alone is sufficient.”

PARISH SOCIAL

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 12:19:09 GMT

Join us for a lively CEILIDH on Sunday 4 October, 3pm to 6pm . Come for an afternoon of Live Music, Dancing, Fun and Community with Teas and Wine provided. Tickets are just £10 per adult, while children under 16 are free. Everyone is welcome, so bring the whole family and enjoy an afternoon of music and dancing for all ages! Tickets available at Church Masses from Saturday 12 September 2026 with payments ideally via Card.

Rosary Circles for Priestly Vocations

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 11:37:30 GMT

If you haven’t already done so, but would still like to commit to praying a decade of the Rosary each day during February, then please do put your initial or a tick in one of the boxes on the ‘Rosary Circle’ chart in the church porch.

The ‘Chart’ lists the 20 decades of the Rosary and a number of columns for people to put their initial or a tick in a box to indicate they will commit to praying the particular decade each day for the month of February, and hopefully, this will create a number of ‘circles’ praying for this intention. This is a very simple spiritual exercise many of us could join in with; at least 20 people praying one decade of the Rosary each day, so the whole of the Rosary is prayed for this particular intention, thus creating a ‘Rosary Circle’. Let it be said, however, that anyone can join the Rosary Circles at any time.

RIGHT TO LIFE

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 12:13:42 GMT

Have created a new letter with more recent findings, with which you are encouraged to contact your MP regarding the ‘Assisted Dying Bill’ which has a ‘Second Reading’ on Friday 11th September. Amongst the findings presented is the following:- “Recent polling has found widespread support for the Prime Minister’s view. A landmark Whitestone Insight MRP poll commissioned by The Other Half, the largest poll on assisted suicide since the introduction of the assisted suicide Bill in the last session, found that 60% of the public believe, like the Prime Minister, that Parliament “should prioritise fixing the NHS and improving palliative, social and end-of-life care…” If you have not already done so, please contact your MP regarding this most serious of matters via:- https://righttolife.org.uk/Sept11vote Many thanks.

Will the West Bank’s Last Christian Town Survive?

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 14:16:16 GMT

Further to the note, care of ACN, in last weekend’s newsletter (below), about the town of Taybeh, the Bishop’s Conference of England and Wales in their ‘weekly roundup’ inform us that the town has become ‘a closed military zone’ under the auspices of the Israeli Defence Force (IDF). Being a closed military zone, it means that Israelis, foreign nationals, and journalists are prohibited from entering. “It is claimed that this is designed to prevent attacks on residents by Israeli settlers, but it is far from clear that this move will achieve that objective. The Israeli government must find a way of protecting the legitimate communities from settler violence whilst allowing citizens to go about their normal business. This ban will lead to a vital loss of income from tourism and pilgrimages and, thereby, international scrutiny on the situation.”

You can read more on the matter at:- https://www.cbcew.org.uk/bishop-james-curry-on-the-declaration-of-taybeh-asa-closed-military-zone/ where the Bishop’s Conference urge you to write to your MP on the matter.

The ‘Aid to the Church in Need’ article can be found at: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/6c13c05d80.html#page/4

Since writing, you will have heard on the news that other villages in the West Bank are also designated as ‘closed military zones’.

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Taybeh, the last entirely Christian town in the West Bank, is at risk of becoming a ghost town. Christians have probably lived there since apostolic times and the town is mentioned in John’s Gospel by the older name of Aephraim. Jesus withdrew there shortly before his crucifixion (John 11:54).

But since June 2025 Taybeh has seen increasing attacks by extremist Jewish settler. The remains of the fifth-century Church of St. George have been vandalised, as has the nearby cemetery. Cars have been set ablaze and properties torched. Agricultural land has been destroyed and farmers stopped from entering their olive groves. And in March 2026 settlers seized a quarry and factory on the town’s edge.

Parish priest Dr. Bashar Fawadleh said Israeli soldiers have failed to help Taybeh’s Christians when the town has been attacjked: “They didn’t protect us, they didn’t stop the settlers, and this is because they protect settlers, because a lot of the soldiers come from settler communities – and they are encouraged by the fanatical elements in the government.”

The February 2026 cabinet decision to support the expansion of Israeli Settlements in the West bank placed further strain on Taybeh. “The general climate has become more fragile and tense, with an increase in military operations, traffic restrictions due to the installation of military gates at several entrances to the city.” Soldiers decide when gates are open “disrupting the daily lives of civilians,” Fr. Bahar said.

The priest added some families had already left Taybeh and others were “seriously considering it.” Fr. Bashar told CAN he understood the fears families had for their children, but that Taybeh’s Christian presence is a living testimony to the Faith “in this land where Christianity was born. Leaving the land is sometimes a human necessity, but staying is often an act of faith and hope.”

With just 1,400 souls left in Taybeh, Fr. Bashar has asked for prayers that the town’s “Christians remain a living community and not a mere memory of the past.”

(Due acknowledgement to’Aid to the Church in Need, Magazine Summer 2026: https://heyzine.com/flipbook/6c13c05d80.html#page/4 )

From the Bishop’s Conference on the ‘Assisted Dying Bill’

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 12:27:56 GMT

Ahead of the Second Reading and vote in the House of Commons for the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life Bill) on Friday 11 September, the Communications Directorate of the Bishops' Conference has produced a poster to encourage Catholics to write to their MPs. The poster has a scannable QR code, that is linked to the Oppose Assisted Suicide section on the Bishops' Conference website. The page can also be found at: https://www.cbcew.org.uk/opposing-assisted-suicide/ . The page has various resources, copies of statements and guidance on writing to your MP.

A useful video to watch, from SPUC can be found at:- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mf2OCZ1OrT4

Public exams

Sun, 16 Aug 2026 17:03:18 GMT

Please keep in your prayers those who will have received or who will be getting public exam results in the near future. We pray that all concerned will have the results they are seeking but are mindful that this will not universally be the case; we pray especially for the guidance and consolation of the Holy Spirt and soundness of mind and heart in situations both of joy and thanksgiving and sorrow and upset.

A REMINDER

Sun, 09 Aug 2026 12:35:11 GMT

If you are going into hospital for elective surgery and having a general anaesthetic then you should celebrate the Sacrament of the Sick , or indeed in the case of old age, serious illness or great sickness. Remember also, that going in to hospital you have to request to see a priest during your stay. If you would like the Sacrament of the Sick, please speak to Fr. Ian to arrange this. (See also the Catechism of the Catholic Church paragraphs 1514 to 1521)

A reminder also, that because of data protection , if you wish to see a Catholic priest while in hospital or, indeed, any other minister of religion, you have to tell the ward staff and make the request; in the case of someone not being able to express such a request, the next of kin or power of attorney can do so on the individuals behalf.

EPSOM DEANERY

Sun, 09 Aug 2026 10:46:08 GMT

Fr. Charles Howell will be taking a sabbatical as of the autumn and there is no priest to take his place! As a consequence, there will have to be adjustments of Mass times across all of the churches in the existing Epsom Deanery so that Mass will continue to be offered at both Fetcham and Effingham. Various scenarios have been suggested but nothing definite has been decided as yet, however, we do need to be prepared for a change in Mass times at the weekend. This is the ‘account of the conversation that clergy have had’ mentioned above. Do see the deanery newsletter for further details.

Parish meeting

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 12:37:13 GMT

POSTPONED - New Date to follow

Since our parish meeting 18 months ago the parish core team has been busy in various ways, and with Fr. Charles Howell leaving Fetcham and Effingham, it would be worthwhile to share what has been happening. To such an end, there will be an open parish meeting on Sunday 6th September after the 10.00 am Mass .

The agenda will consist of a finance report, the work which the core team has been doing and the changes within the existing Epsom Deanery to facilitate the pastoral provision of Sunday Mass for the parish of Effingham and Fetcham. An additional concern to be addressed is the request from the Diocese, is the need for about 12 people to be trained in First Aid, assistance to cope with ‘bad weather conditions’ and ‘fire wardens’ in the event of such emergencies.

Music at St Joseph’s Church

Sun, 02 Aug 2026 13:34:22 GMT

We are looking for more people to join us in the music group for the 10am Mass on Sunday’s, as well as for the important Church Celebrations and Holy days. We usually play every fortnight (with a break in the summer), but you don’t have to be available every week to be involved.

Musicians need to be reasonably confident with their instrument, but please just come and have a chat to explore matters further. Singers too, are very welcome! And are there any organists out there who might want to play sometimes? If you have a teenager doing D of E joining the music group to sing or play can also count as your ‘Volunteering task’! We hope to have an informal practice – probably in September as an opportunity to get a sense of things and also have some fun making music together.

Please speak to Gabrielle or anyone else in the Music Group after Mass, or email gabrielle.musictherapy@gmail.com . or chat to or email Vinita . vmgoveas@hotmail.com

Getting Married

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 08:41:19 GMT

GETTINNG MARRIED:- Just a line to remind any couples intending to marry that the Diocese requires that 12 months’ notice is given to the local priest, so that marriage preparation can be undertaken. At this moment in time, therefore, the end of July 2027 is the earliest any wedding could take place.

Holy Hour

Sun, 26 Jul 2026 16:03:54 GMT

We have our monthly holy hour with quiet Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament this Thursday (30th) July from 6.00pm - 7.00pm. Being the holy day time, an opportunity to be with our Lord and be re-created (recreation) as the person the Lord wants us to be.

From RIGHT TO LIFE

Sun, 26 Jul 2026 13:47:02 GMT

On Thursday, 16th July 2026, Lauren Edwards MP published her assisted suicide Bill which is near-identical to Kim Leadbeater’s deeply flawed and unsafe Bill from the previous parliamentary session.

It retains dozens of serious flaws identified by Royal Colleges, professional bodies, the Equality and Human Rights Commission, and disability, mental health and domestic abuse charities.

The Bill was published on the day MPs left Westminster for the summer recess, leaving them very little parliamentary time to examine it before its Second Reading on Friday 11 September.

By bringing back the Bill in near-identical form, its supporters are also keeping open the highly controversial possibility of using the Parliament Acts to force it into law if the House of Lords does not pass it again.

This makes the vote on 11 September even more important.

TAKE ACTION

We have just updated our Support Not Suicide campaign email tool. The campaign page will look familiar, but the email your MP receives now explains what has been published today, why the proposed use of the Parliament Acts is so concerning and why MPs must vote NO at Second Reading on 11 September.

Even if you have contacted your MP before, please write to them again using this updated tool. This is new information that your MP needs to see.

Please click the button below to contact your MP now .

Every email helps demonstrate that there is serious and growing opposition to bringing back the same unsafe Bill and attempting to force it into law.

A useful video to watch, from SPUC can be found at:- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mf2OCZ1OrT4

Mass and Meet

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 20:12:21 GMT

Mass and Meet On Friday 2nd October 2026 with Mass at 12.00 mid-day, followed by a light lunch in the hall. Everyone is welcome.

Deanery Newsletter

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 14:42:08 GMT

The latest Deanery newsletter is now available at the back of Church / on the website and is an invitation to celebrate so many wonderful things that have been going on in the Deanery. There's also an account of the conversations that clergy have been having about pastoral provision in the times to come and some of the important principles that have been at the heart of their discussions. Please do have a read, and, as we look forward to welcoming Bishop-elect Stephen, let's remember Archbishop Richard's refrain that all is to be rooted in prayer.

As an additional note :- Fr. Charles Howell will be taking a sabbatical as of the autumn and there is no priest to take his place! As a consequence, there will have to be adjustments of Mass times across all of the churches in the existing Epsom Deanery so that Mass will continue to be offered at both Fetcham and Effingham. Various scenarios have been suggested but nothing definite has been decided as yet, however, we do need to be prepared for a change in Mass times at the weekend. This is the ‘ account of the conversation that clergy have had ’ mentioned above. Do see the deanery newsletter for further details.

Receptions into the Church

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 19:02:00 GMT

Our congratulations to those who were received into the Church and those who were Confirmed; please do keep them in your prayers as they continue to grow in their faith.

Fortieth Anniversary

Sun, 12 Jul 2026 19:09:06 GMT

Next Sunday 19th July Fr. Ian will offer the 10 am Mass in thanksgiving for forty years of priesthood. Quite a number of people from his former parishes have indicated they will be joining us for the celebration and a reception in the hall following on from the Mass. Please do come along.

Some helping hands for the reception, cake, coffee, prosecco and canapes would be very much appreciated; if you are able to help, please put your details on the list at the entrances to the church.

Summer Holiday

Sun, 12 Jul 2026 13:28:27 GMT

The school year finishes this week and for many it will be a holiday time, but we should take a moment to reflect on what holiday means! If we change the letter ‘I’ in ‘holiday’ for the letter ‘y’ then we get the real sense of the word, a holy day! We also talk of holidays as being a time of recreation, of being RE-created, which would suggest that we may have become ‘uncreated’ or more likely, pulled in a thousand directions by so many demands on our energies and time.

Holidays should therefore be an opportunity to be recreated to the image and likeness of God, to become, once again, children of God, and this will only happen if we make holy time in our holiday. The holidays should enable us to more readily make time for prayer, for being with God, for being in the presence of God and basking in the sunshine of His love.

The ancient understanding of prayer has been that it is ‘the raising of the mind and heart to God’, however, Pope St. John Paul II added ‘with joy!’ If we are to be recreated to our true image and likeness as children of God, we need to make time for prayer, for raising our minds and hearts to God with joy, and every family member, or whoever it is that we are having our holiday with, should be afforded the opportunity to pray.

So, young people , if you are on holiday, please do your bit to allow your parents /guardians the opportunity to have a holiday; help with the domestic chores, be on time for things, volunteer rather than waiting to be asked or presuming that someone else will do ‘it’! That way, others too can have a holiday because the work load is shared!

Parents/guardians , allow your children to help with the various tasks around the home, they may not do things in the same way as you do, or to your exacting standards, but at least things will be done, and it doesn’t really matter if the tea towels are not folded in exactly the way you want them done, or that the forks are in the knife section of the draw!

 We should all decide on when is a good time for us to pray, whether together or perhaps individually, perhaps earlier in the day rather than later, which could mean going to bed a bit earlier the night before if a day trip is planned, in this way time can be given to prayer before going off on the day trip because everyone is up that little bit earlier for prayer.

THE MOST SACRED HEART OF JESUS

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 13:35:52 GMT

In the month of June, we honour the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. St. Therese of Lisieux states that “For me, prayer is a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned towards heaven, it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy.” Padre Pio: Let us remember that the Heart of Jesus has called us not only for our own sanctification, but also for that of other souls.

DORKING FOOD BANK

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 15:09:40 GMT

The Dorking foodbank is looking for the following items this month:

honey, marmalade, coffee, tea, washing tablets and razors but all personal hygiene items (body wash, shampoo) and non-perishable food are always gratefully received. If you are able please donate to the Foodbank Box inside the side door and it will be taken to the depot by members of our congregation. Alternatively, consider donating on line to the Trussell Trust which runs foodbanks throughout the country.

Admissions to Catholic Schools and the Certificate of Catholic Practice

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 15:01:34 GMT

Admissions to Catholic Schools and the Certificate of Catholic Practice: -The Diocesan Education Service has updated its Admission Policies to bring it in line with the National Catholic Education Service and to ensure compliance with the mandatory School Admission Code which all Admission Authorities are legally required to follow.

Our schools will still prioritise Catholic applicants and a certificate of Baptism will still be used to identify this. This will eventually remove the requirement to seek a parish priest’s signature on the Supplementary Information Forms' (SIFs). However, in any case where a school is oversubscribed with Catholic applicants, it will be necessary to rank further the Catholic applicants. To do this a 'Certificate of Catholic Practice' (CCP) will be used in which the local priest(s) will affirm that 'this child and his/her family are known to me and, to the best of my knowledge and belief, the child is from a practising Catholic family'. (The Guidance from the Diocese, following the National Catholic Education Service model, states that for the purposes of the Certificate of Catholic Practice, a person is a practising Catholic if they observe the Church’s precept of attending Mass on Sundays and holidays of obligation.) This certificate will be needed for those applying from this autumn for a place at St Andrew’s for Admission in September 2027, and going forward.

Initially, in moving to a new system, the onus will be on parish clergy to make a judgement on these matters. However, Deanery clergy and the Diocesan Education Service are working on a form for use in coming years whereby families can indicate and celebrate their participation at Mass; indeed families should regard the change as a reminder of the need to be engaged with the life of the local Church, that is, the parish – not simply because they desire a school place for their child but because it is first and foremost their faith community, because worshipping God and being fed by Christ in word and Sacrament is what we are about and because, as children of God, families want their children to be supported in their journey of faith.

More comprehensive details can be found on the parish and St. Joseph’s School web sites and the bright yellow coloured sheet on the shelf by the side entrance of the church.

Altar Servers

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 12:38:12 GMT

If any of the children who have just made their First Holy Communion would like to become altar servers, they are very welcome to do so. If parents get them to the church 15 to 20 minutes before Mass, we can begin to sort the children out with albs etc. To begin with, just being on the sanctuary and they will slowly be trained in what to do. Many thanks.

BABY FEST

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 15:23:29 GMT

Thanks to all those who came along last Sunday to share with others, a great time was had by all, especially the children, getting to know each other! We look forward to the next one.

Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 13:16:41 GMT

This Thursday 25th June 6.00pm - 7.00pm. All are welcome

‘Not Dead Yet’

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 12:36:51 GMT

The disability group have set up a petition requesting that MPs do not cave to the pressure of bringing back the ‘Assisted Dying Bill’ tabled by Kim Leadbeater but which ‘fell due to a lack of time’. You can find the petition and contact your MP at:- Tell your MP to help stop the assisted dying Bill from returning Many thanks.

FAITH SUMMER SESSION

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 12:29:39 GMT

Takes place at Ampleforth Abbey from 27th to 31st July and is open to young people aged between 18 and 35. Further details and information at:_ Faith Summer Session 2026 - Faith Movement

Next Sunday is designated a DAY FOR LIFE

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 15:06:52 GMT

Next Sunday is designated a DAY FOR LIFE:- please see:- www.dayforlife.org for further details and there is a second collection to support the work of the Church in this arena..

UK holidays for Catholic families

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 12:34:32 GMT

Catholic People’s Weeks aim to nourish both children and adults with ageappropriate activities, talks, Mass and lots of fun. “At CPW we felt very welcomed and included by everyone. The theme “eat pray love” was brought to life brilliantly with a wide range of talks and expertise on offer. The children’s sessions were very inclusive and greatly enjoyed by our daughter. The evenings offered joyful community activities such as the ceilidh and concert. We felt very special being a part of the CPW family and look forward to our second event!”

CPW is on Facebook, catholicpeoplesweeks.org or contact Louise Cook on 07947 089157

SAVE THE DATE

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 12:24:49 GMT

SAVE THE DATE 1:-Sunday 19th July - Celebration of Fr Ian's 40th anniversary of Ordination. Mass at 10am followed by reception in the hall. All welcome.

SAVE THE DATE 2:- Saturday 12th September - Ride & Stride . Join the fun with a sponsored walk/cycle around our local churches to raise funds for Surrey Churches Preservation Trust and St. Joseph's. Full details to follow. Supporting this event will help to raise funds, some of which we, hope, will go towards the recent cost of our own church roof repair.

Pope Leo’s Encyclical Letter

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 10:53:27 GMT

Pope Leo’s Encyclical Letter on the place of AI in human relations can be found at:- Encyclical Letter of His Holiness Leo XIV Magnifica Humanitas (15 May 2026 ) For a report on his letter see:- Magnifica Humanitas: Pope invokes justice to combat ‘anti-human vision’ in AI – Catholic World Report

Paper copies are available for sale in the church porch.

GIFT AID

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 13:37:35 GMT

GIFT AID ENVELOPES 2026/2027 :- As always, our grateful thanks to all those who are able to make financial contribution to the parish via the ‘Gift Aid’ scheme. For those who do so via the envelope system, we are pleased to tell you the envelopes for this tax year 26/27 are available in the sacristy, please collect your box with your name on a printed label on it at the earliest opportunity. Very many thanks.

Gift Aid and the ‘card machines ’:- Just a reminder that parish and diocesan donations via the card machine can be ‘Gift Aided’ if the card has been registered on one of the machines for Gift Aid, with the proviso that you, the donor, use the same ‘bank card’ each time to make any such donation. We will advise in the next couple of weeks of someone being available to assist and help / show individuals wishing to make ‘Gift Aided’ contributions in this way.

That said, we advise that ‘third party donations’ such as CAFOD where Gift Aid is encouraged, would require individuals to put their details on the envelopes provided by the charity and indicate ‘donation via card payment’, with the amount specified; this will then be forwarded to the particular charity. Very many thanks for your understanding.

Foundation Governors

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 12:19:45 GMT

St Joseph's School is seeking one more Foundation Governors to support the school in its work. This is a fantastic way to volunteer in the community and to apply your skills and experience to help the school improve and flourish. Please contact the school office at: office@stjosephs-dorking.surrey.sch.uk to find out more, or drop in to the school any time!

St. Joseph’s Bee Keepers

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 11:00:14 GMT

“Last year, we finished with 7 colonies and as the weather got colder we left them with plenty of food to help sustain them during the winter. Sadly, when the weather was warm enough to start up inspections for this season there was only one colony left. However, it went from strength to strength and a couple of weeks later, we split it into 3 colonies. We have also had 3 swarms and split the first one again, so now we are back up to 7 colonies. It is a fascinating hobby and even if you don’t have time to come weekly, you might just like to come and have a look. If you like the idea then come when you can. We have two spare bee suits. If you would like to come, then phone Tommy on 07941 850036.”

MASS INTENTIONS

Sun, 31 May 2026 14:46:57 GMT

You will see from the ‘diary’ for this week, Masses are the ‘celebrant’s intention’; however, if you would like to have Mass offered for a personal or particular intention, please put details on a ‘Mass Intention’ envelope and hand it to Fr. Ian or drop it through the presbytery letterbox. You might like to have Mass offered for someone’s well-being, the repose of their soul, birthday etc. By tradition, the Mass ‘offering’, (rooted in Leviticus 7:28- 34 and Deuteronomy 18:3-8) should be sufficient to sustain a priest for the day. Many thanks.

Musicians, Singers and Readers

Sun, 31 May 2026 13:22:04 GMT

There is a lot of quiet talent in the parish, with a lot of youngsters being very proficient readers, as well as musicians and singers of all ages! It would be great if such talents could be used to the glory and praise of God in the liturgy.

To that end, over the next few weeks, we will be making appeals for people to be involved in these things. Don’t be concerned if you don’t feel too confident, support and help can and will be given and you won’t be asked to take on and lead on every front, all these things are shared ministries. There are those who have assisted with these ministries and will help to integrate your talents with those already involved in them. If you find it’s not for you, having given something a go, we will be thankful that you made the offer and had a go.

Many thanks.

Defend NHS staff conscience rights

Sun, 31 May 2026 12:31:37 GMT

Following the fall of the Leadbeater assisted suicide Bill, fresh bids to introduce an assisted dying law in England and Wales are anticipated. Any new law would likely pressure NHS staff to be involved in some way and offer even less protection to institutions like hospices. You can help protect healthcare workers and hospices by signing the Bios Centre online petition.

It calls on Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, to protect conscientious objection rights for religious and personal beliefs. Sign the petition at https://bioscentre.org/petition-on-conscience-protection/ or scan this QR code with your smartphone.

Latest on Parliament and Assisted Dying from ‘Right to Life’

Tue, 26 May 2026 13:16:23 GMT

“The House of Commons Private Members’ Bill ballot has now taken place, and your MP needs to hear from you again. A number of the 20 MPs drawn in this morning’s ballot voted for the assisted suicide Bill at Third Reading last year. They are now coming under considerable pressure from assisted suicide campaigners, led by Kim Leadbeater MP, to bring back her dangerous Bill.

Please take 30 seconds now to send your MP a new email with important new polling that every MP needs to see, whether or not they were drawn in the ballot.

New polling from Whitestone Insight has been released following the ballot, and is the largest public poll conducted on assisted suicide since the Leadbeater assisted suicide Bill was introduced.

The polling includes seat-by-seat results that show there is no local mandate in your constituency for MPs to revive Kim Leadbeater’s failed assisted suicide Bill and bypass the House of Lords to push it into law.

This needs to get in front of your MP as soon as possible, so they can see what people in your constituency think. The Other Half, who commissioned the polling, has launched an easy tool that lets you email your MP with the poll results for your constituency and ask them to oppose the Bill being brought back. Please take 30 seconds now to contact your MP, using the simple tool. ” Write to your MP - Stop the assisted dying bill being brought back

The dawn crow of the cockerel in the Passion pt2

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:45:51 GMT

The dawn crow of the cockerel in the Passion Narrative: - (Part 2)

The Midrash, about King Solomon who desires to build the Temple, the shamir and the Hoopoe begins by announcing that King Solomon got himself a male and female demon (derived from shiddah and shiddot which could mean ‘singers’ (see Jerusalem Bible version) but is obscure enough, according to the footnote, to possibly mean demons) who, in turn, eventually got a hold of the king of the demons, Ashmedai, who pointed King Solomon in the direction of the hoopoe, the guardian of the ‘shamir’.

The text continues:- “Solomon replied, “I want nothing at all that is yours. But because I desire to build the Temple, I need the shamir.” Ashmedai (the king of demons) said to him. “ The shamir was not placed in my charge but given to the prince of the sea, and he gave sole charge of it to the wild cock, (the hoopoe) who is entrusted with it on oath. Do you know what he does with it? He takes it to an uninhabited mountain and sets it down upon a peak, and the mountain splits asunder. Then the wild cock gathers seeds of trees and scatters them in the split, which consequently attracts settlers .” (Hence the Aramai Targum calls the wild cock the “splitter of mountains.”)” (See:- “The Book of Legends Sefer Ha-Aggadah” No. 122 P. 130 Ed. Hayim Nahman Ravnitzky, Schocken Books, New York, 1992)

If, in Judaism at the time of our Lord, the cockerel announces the new day and the call to first prayers, the clearing by the priestly caste of the ashes of the previous days sacrificial oblations in the Temple as preparation for sacrifices of the new day, and indeed, the cockerel is recognised as the one who has charge of the shamir then surely, we can equate the shamir with our Lord and the wood of the cross!

The cross upon which our Lord was nailed, would have been erected in the rock, that is, it would have split the rock, and so we could say that symbolically, Christ is indeed the shamir who ‘attracts settlers’, the new Covenant, which is the Church, and therefore it is no surprise, the shamir disappeared after the building of the Second Temple, because Christ is the shamir, the tool required to build the (new) Temple, announced by the cockerel on Good Friday morning.

When, as the Gospel recounts our Lord died upon the cross, the veil of the Temple was torn from top to bottom (Mk 15:37, Matt 27:51) and thus the Covenant of Sinai is superseded, the New and Everlasting Covenant (of the Church) is established through the Resurrection of Jesus and the institution of the Ministerial priesthood and the Holy Eucharist at the Last Supper; these surely all point to Jesus as being the shamir. The cock crow on that Good Friday would see our Lord died upon the Cross and again, as the Gospel relates, there was an earthquake and the ground was split open and the souls of many rose from the dead (Matt 27:51).

Is it that Christ is the shamir, the tool who enables the new temple to be built, the ‘keystone’ over which many would stumble, but upon whom, the Church, the New Temple or Tabernacle is built? In which case, the dawn crow of the cockerel, the splitter of stone, if the Gospel narrative references the Midrash, is of greater significance than we may think!

The dawn crow of the cockerel in the Passion pt 1

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 15:42:39 GMT

The dawn crow of the cockerel in the Passion Narrative: - (Part 1)

In Judaism there are ‘interpretive commentaries which surround many of the text of the Old Testament, called ‘Midrash’. One such Midrash is about King Solomon and the building of the First Temple. The Midrash talks of a tool, the ‘shamir’ which is required to cut the stone for the Temple. The shamir is in the charge of a wild cockerel, the hoopoe. “An essential element in Solomon's construction of the Temple was the miraculous shamir stonecutter. In instructing us how to make the permanent altar to God, the Torah says, "do not build it out of cut stone" (Ex. 20:22). The shamir disappeared after the destruction of the Temple.

The Nature of the Shamir:- The word "shamir" in biblical Hebrew was used in two senses: a) a penpoint made out of a hard substance (Jeremiah 17:1); or b) sharp thorns (Isaiah 5:6).

Each usage relates to the ability of the shamir to pierce hard surfaces. The Talmud and later great rabbis described how the passage of the shamir along the surface of a stone would cause it to split perfectly into two pieces.

Small as a barleycorn (less than one centimeter), the shamir did not have an inspiring physical appearance. According to Rabbi Bachiya in the Talmud, the shamir was first used at the time of the construction of the Tabernacle to engrave the names of the tribes on the precious jewels of the High Priest's breastplate. For safekeeping, the shamir was kept wrapped in wool, placed in a lead basket filled with barley bran (Talmud, Sota 48b.) The choice of these materials was specific, since no other materials were able to resist its penetrative powers.

A Midrash recounts that even King Solomon had no idea where to find the shamir, although he knew he needed it to build the Temple. Solomon went to great lengths to obtain the shamir, even to the point, evidently, of contacting demons who had some relationship with the shamir and the other supernatural phenomena. The Midrash relates that Solomon consulted the king of the demons, who did not have it but knew that the angel of the sea had given the shamir to the hoopoe bird (dukhifat, Lev. 11:19), a type of fowl who needed it to survive. In the end, King Solomon captured the shamir from the hoopoe, a ‘wild cockerel’. (See:- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoopoe )

The shamir was used by man only in the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple. Supernatural beings created by God for specific functions do not exist forever. The Mishna (Sota 9:12) states that the shamir existed until the destruction of the Second Temple. According to the Tosefta, the shamir disappeared after the destruction of the Temple (my note: in the year 70 A.D, some 27 years after the events of the first Easter, that is, the Death and Resurrection of Jesus) since it was no longer needed.” (Taken from:- https://www.chabad.org/kabbalah/article_cdo/aid/38030 3/jewish/Modern-Physics-and-the-Shamir.htm )

“Hoopoes will also feed on insects on the surface, probe into piles of leaves, and even use the bill to lever large stones and flake off bark.” We can understand the origins of the idea of the ‘rock splitter’ in the Midrash from the observations made about this wild cockerel, the hoopoe.

A report from the ‘Centre for Social Justice’

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:22:00 GMT

Worth a read:- a report from the ‘Centre for Social Justice’

https://www.centreforsocialjustice.org.uk/wpcontent/uploads/2025/03/CSJ-The_Lost_Boys.pdf

Adult Information

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 15:51:30 GMT

The programme is open to everyone, but especially those who wish to know more about the Catholic faith with a view to becoming a Catholic. Our programme continues this Monday 9th March, when we look at the foundations of the Church, built on Peter and the Apostles. Please note we will begin at the earlier time of 7.00 pm; all are welcome.

Children's Liturgy – Could you help with the leadership?

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 18:51:09 GMT

We have so much enjoyed restarting the Children's Liturgy over the past year. It has been fantastic to see the enthusiasm of children and parents for these sessions, and rewarding for us to see the children enjoying growing in the knowledge of their faith. It would be lovely to have more leaders so that we can increase the number of sessions. Besides a love of God, no formal qualifications are needed to assist other than be happy to have a DBS check and enthusiasm. We work as a team, supporting one another in working with the children in all the sessions. So, if you are interested in finding out more, please do speak to one of us after Mass or contact us through the church office. God bless, Kathia, Matthew, Elizabeth and Monika

PARISH REPOSITORY / BOOK STALL

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 14:37:10 GMT

PARISH REPOSITORY / BOOK STALL : - Is something perhaps, which we take for granted in the church narthex, but which has been looked after and managed for many years by one person with assistance from others. Given the passage of time, it would be appreciated if a couple of people would assist in learning of how to manage and order items for the repository with a view to taking on the role in due time. If you would be willing to help withs, please e-mail the parish office with your details, which will then be passed on to the current manager. Many thanks.

Society for the Protection of the Unborn Child

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 10:09:41 GMT

From THE SOCIETY FOR THE PROTECTION OF THE UNBORN CHILD:-

After a two-year delay, the Government have finally published the official abortion statistics for 2023.

The results are shocking but not surprising. There were 277,970 terminations recorded, an 11% increase on the year before. These are the highest numbers of abortions in the UK’s history, nearly 300,000 per year across all four nations - a figure never envisaged when the legislation was first passed. There is also a rise in pills by post abortions - 200,745 abortions involved taking both abortion drugs at home, 72% of the total. You can read our full press release here .

These appalling figures come as peers are due to debate the biggest expansion of abortion since 1967 - allowing self-induced abortion up to birth. As you know, the House of Lords will debate Clause 191 to the Crime and Policing Bill in the coming weeks - either on 27th January or 2nd February.

Amendments tabled at Committee Stage include removing Clause 191 from the Bill entirely, ending the pills by post policy, and mandatory investigations for underage abortions.

Please write to members of the House of Lords and ask them to fight the extreme abortion up to birth amendment. We must work to stop these horrendous statistics rising still higher. If this change goes through, key protections for women and babies will be removed.

Please use our tool to contact members of the House of Lords. It will generate a Peer at random for you to write to, and bring up an editable template. Please edit this template to put it in your own words, and to include your own concerns and experiences. Once you have finished your letter, it will be emailed to you to print off and send to the Peer by post . Alternatively, you can opt to send your message by email, though paper letters are always more impactful than emails. The SPUC tool can be found at:-

Fight the latest attempts to decriminalise abortion - SPUC You can contact as many Peers as you are able to (but send the letters in separate envelopes).

Diocesan Pastoral Plan

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 15:07:07 GMT

The Pastoral Plan – The Word Who is Life (From Fr. Chris Bergin):-

“Bishop Richard’s appointment as the next Archbishop of Westminster means there are some immediate consequences for us regarding the implementation of the Pastoral Plan in the Epsom Deanery. Whilst some things, by Church Law, are put on hold until a new Bishop arrives – particularly any decision to combine the existing nine parishes into one new parish – other key elements of the Plan remain as important for us as ever; prayer, formation and mission continue to be the priorities that shape our pastoral life. Whilst the parishioner meetings around the nine parishes will not now go ahead as planned (as a significant factor in the planning for these – particularly the timetable – was the proposed changes to structure), the Parish Leadership Team will be working on proposals to enable us to continue our reflections on mission, to celebrate and develop co-operation between our parish communities, and continue to invite all parishioners to get involved. You’ll be able to hear more about this in the next Deanery newsletter which will be available next weekend, 17th/18th January.”

Additionally, there's a piece on the Diocesan website about what happens (and doesn't happen) during sede vacante which may be of help: Sede Vacante: Next steps for the Diocese of Arundel & Brighton | News

Missio Red Box

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 23:25:43 GMT

If you have a Red Box (Mill Hill Missionaries) in your home which is not emptied by the parish collectors or if you would like a Red Box in your home to help the APF’s missionary work, please contact Louis McCulloch on 01306 899001 or louis.mcculloch1@gmail.com .

Lifts to Church

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 19:48:51 GMT

We are hoping to create a small group of volunteers to assist those with mobility issues in getting to church. Please do get in touch either if you think you can help provide the occasional lift by car, or if you yourself need occasional help to get to church due to mobility issues. Please get in touch on 07393814255. Benjamin Morrell.

MASS INTENTIONS AND STIPENDS

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 12:33:14 GMT

Every now and again the question about Mass intentions comes up in regard to having a Mass for a particular intention, e.g. the repose of someone’s soul, a person’s health or well-being, thanksgiving etc.

Priest are allowed to celebrate one Mass each day for a particular intention, such as those mentioned above, however it must be stressed that we cannot ‘buy’ a Mass! Remember, that the Mass, the Holy Eucharist, is the unbloodied sacrifice of Christ upon the Cross, Jesus offers Himself to God the Father on our behalf; through the action of the Mass He unites us to our Heavenly Father especially through Holy Communion, the Mass then, is the perfect prayer of the Church and is not something we can ‘buy’.

The ‘Mass Stipend’ or ‘Mass Offering’ is a gift to the priest, (normally financial) when a particular intention is requested, its roots are in the Old Testament and the Levitical priesthood. The tribe of Levi, were set aside by God through Moses to administer the Tent of Meeting which later became the Temple in Jerusalem. The Tent of Meeting / Temple was the place of the Holy of Holies which contained the Ark of the Covenant; it was here that the Levites served God on behalf of His people, they were ‘set aside’ for such work.

Part of the priestly work was to offer sacrifices to God, and the priests were allowed to take certain parts of the sacrificial animals so as to sustain themselves and their family (see Dt 18:1-8). In the same way, if we would like a Mass for a particular intention, we can always put details on a ‘Mass Intentions’ envelope (available at the back of the church) with an offering, and hand it to Fr. Ian or put it through the presbytery letter box. The financial offering, or ‘Mass Stipend’ is a personal gift to the priest and helps, as its roots suggest, in sustaining the priest personally for a day

Catholics Seeking Guidance

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 09:25:36 GMT

Catholics seeking guidance: In light of recent coverage, some references to help and guide:

Catechism of the Catholic Church paragraph 2277 Catechism of the Catholic Church - IntraText The Code of Canon Law: Code 227 Code of Canon Law - Book II - The People of God - Part I. (Cann. 208-329) The Code of Canon Law: Code 915 Code of Canon Law - Book IV - Function of the Church Liber (Cann. 879-958) followed by the commentary from the Pontifical Council for Legislative Text (24/06/2000) Declaration of the Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts which

clearly outlines the responsibility of priests towards the People of God entrusted to their care.

Assisted Dying Bill

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 10:14:22 GMT

In light of the Bill having a Second Reading this Friday, 11th September 2026 a very helpful and recent poll indicating the wishes of constituents in Dorking and Horley can be found at:- Assisted Dying Polling: Dorking and Horley | The Other Half essentially the first question in the poll found that “Just 8% of constituents in Dorking and Horley included assisted suicide in their top three priorities for their MP if they had the chance to bring forward a law change in the coming year.” ‘

The Other Half’ have produced a simple tool, whereby you can send a message to your MP informing him or her about this development and this new poll at:- Write to your MP - Stop the new assisted dying bill You are strongly encouraged to do so. Many thanks.

Parish Library

Sun, 16 Mar 2025 10:28:27 GMT

Parish Library:- A reminder that there is the parish library in the narthex,/ main entrance to the church. There is a wide selection of books, both of a devotional and doctrinal nature, so do have a look and don’t be afraid to borrow.

On a similar note, the ‘Catechism of the Catholic Church’ can be found on the Vatican web site. Type in ‘santa sede’ on a search engine and it will bring up the web site, go to the top right of the home page to select a language, and then scroll down to the bottom of the page to ‘resources’ click on that ‘button’ and it will take you to a menu page for the ‘Code of Canon Law’, the Catechism and the documents of the Second Vatican Council; all useful stuff informing our faith and therefore the opportunity to grow in the love of God, His Church and our neighbour.

The Anima Christi

Sun, 02 Mar 2025 10:32:49 GMT

The Anima Christi (Prayer after receiving Holy Communion):-

Soul of Christ, be my sanctification, Body of Christ, be my salvation,. Blood of Christ, fill all my veins. Water flowing from the side of Christ, wash out my stains. Passion of Christ, my comfort be. O good Jesu, listen to me. In Thy wounds I fain would hide, N’er to be parted from thy side, Guard me should my foe assail me. Call me when my life shall fail me. Bid me come to thee above, With Thy saints to sing Thy love, World without end. Amen.