July services at the Shrine Church of St Melangell.

Sea Sunday falls on July 13th this year and the theme is ‘Who is my neighbour?’ It comes from the story of the Good Samaritan who came to the aid of a man hurt in a robbery, whereas others who might have been expected to help him first did not. That is still happening today as more seafarers are being abandoned by their companies, facing piracy, often not allowed shore leave and have to be away from their families for very lengthy periods – serious mental health issues are a consequence for some. 

Stella Maris, the Catholic Chaplaincy to seafarers, tells the story of a ship’s cook who needed the help of a good neighbour when he became seriously ill. Carlo was due to fly home to the Philippines, but needed to be admitted to hospital. The ship had to leave and Carlo was left completely alone in a foreign country. He spent three weeks in hospital and was visited by Steve, the port chaplain, who called regularly and brought clean clothes, food, and a mobile phone SIM card so that Carlo could speak to his family. On his birthday, Steve arrived with a card and a small gift. It was a simple act of kindness, but it meant a lot.

Three weeks is a long time to be in hospital, far from home, with no familiar faces around. But thanks to Steve, Carlo had someone to visit him who made sure he was not alone or forgotten: a good neighbour. Even when Carlo returned home, the support didn’t stop and a chaplain to seafarers in the Philippines still ensures he gets the care he needs there. 

As uncertainty and risk increases at such a challenging time, good neighbours are needed more than ever in all communities. For seafarers, those in the fishing industry and their families the need can be great so, when fish, food, clothing or goods imported from overseas are next picked up when shopping, spare a thought for those who have been involved in getting them there. The price paid may be much more than just that on the label. 

With my prayers; pob bendith,

Christine, Priest Guardian.

The following services will be held in July:

Thursday 3rd, noon: Holy Eucharist.

Third Sunday after Trinity, July 6th, 3pm: Service of reflection.

Thursday 10th, noon: Service of the word.

Fourth Sunday after Trinity, July 13th, 3pm: Service of reflection for Sea Sunday.

Thursday 17th July, noon: Service of the word.

Fifth Sunday after Trinity, July 20th, 3pm:  Service of reflection.

Thursday 24th, noon: Holy Eucharist and service of healing.

Sixth Sunday after Trinity, 27th July, 3pm: Service of reflection.

Monday 28th July, 10.30am: Julian Group at the Centre.

Thursday 31st July, noon: Holy Eucharist.

The service on Thursdays is followed by a shared lunch at the Centre with tea and cake on Sundays. For further details or to book the Shepherd’s Hut, please ring 01691 860408 or contact admin@stmelangell.org