Holy Cross Catholic Church extends a warm welcome to all for the forth African Mass on Sunday 25th July at 1pm for 1:30pm.
Honoured Guests Cllr Anne Cheale Mayor of Thurrock and Father Albert Ofere( Nigerian Catholic Chaplaincy) at the church in Easington Way, South Ockendon.
A coming together of congregation and community in a spiritual and cultural celebration.
Over the last five years, the church has strived to encourage inclusion by engaging with local community, schools, church, local police and other groups that play an active role within the Ockendon area.
The Mass has gone from strength to strength and is now considered to be a vibrant colourful and joyous occasion.
As a first this year, the young people wanted to add to the celebration by hosting a performance following the service which will take place in the hall next to the church. They have scripted, rehearsed and prepared it themselves. The infants too, were keen to show us their talents and a dedicated team of volunteers have supported them with their programme.
In recognition of every body’s efforts and hard work Jackie Doyle-Price, MP for Thurrock will be putting in an appearance sometime during the reception;
For the second year running the Mayor of Thurrock will be adding to the rich tapestry of celebration and tradition together with the chief celebrant Father Albert Ofere
This event offers something for everyone, a good family day out. Refreshments will be served after the performances followed by a disco from 7pm onwards.
Dictionary definition of catholic is All-inclusive,Universal,broad and comprehensive in interests. Perfect definition for yesterdays celebrations. The Mayor enjoyed the vibrant service and the MP was delighted with the youth presentation. There were, Italians, Welsh, English, Irish, Kenyans, Nigerians and Ghanians, all spending the day together getting to know each other and sharing traditions, cultures and cusiine. Visitors from as far away as Leeds and Barnsley had travelled to join in the celebrations. It was a great success the teens had chosen this years theme of Unity they did such a good job they can pick next years theme. If you weren’t there you missed out. well done to all involved
July 2010. Fourth African Mass at Holy Cross Catholic Church. WOW. The service was vibrant and encouraged soul searching. The juniors were impressive, the youths were amazing. Did not realise that we had such talents. No doubt plenty of organising went into this day.
Osi I must congratulate you. You were not discouraged by barriers and you had faith in our children and the community as a whole. Your persistance, and hard work paid off as all who attended can testify that the day was truely a worth while occasion which should be encouraged. Those who were not involved were wowwed when they saw the colourful African Attire of SWEET JESUS worn by the members of our Parish.
Keep AFRICAN MASS IN MIND. When it happens again, hopefully next year, Be sure to be present. You be sorry to miss it.