19th Sunday of the Year – Year C

Festival Mass

Today Sunday, 10 August: His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, celebrates the Festival Mass at Noon at the Cathedral. The Festival Mass is celebrated each year on the 2nd Sunday of August. We welcome dignitaries from across the city, including the Lord Provost and City Councillors, representatives of the Consular Corps in Edinburgh, the High Constables, and other guests. The Festival Mass comes at the start of the week where we celebrate the Cathedral’s patronal feast - the Assumption.

Friday is the Assumption and is a Holy Day of Obligation

This Friday, 15th August, is the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and is our patronal feast. It is a Holy Day of Obligation meaning all Catholics are obliged to go to Mass. Masses in English will be celebrated in the Cathedral at 8am, 10:00am and 12:45pm, and at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston at 6:00pm. Polish Masses at the Cathedral will be at 11:15am and 6:00pm.

“The dogma of the Virgin Mary's Assumption into heaven is contained in the deposit of Christian faith entrusted to the Church.” (Pope Pius XII, Apostolic Constitution Munificentissimus Deus, 1950)

CATHEDRAL BUILDING FUND APPEAL

We’ve now raised £248,000 which is amazing! Thank you! Can you help us to reach our target of £500,000 for this round of works to the sacristy and chancel roofs and adjacent stonework?

Summer Second Collections – The next summer collection for our Cathedral Building Fund will be next weekend 16/17 August. There are some blue Building Fund envelopes for you to use if you wish to Gift Aid your donation at the back of the church.

We have set up a dedicated point for donations to the Building Fund. In front of the passkeepers’ table, we have a new contactless device set up as well as a cash donation box. All donations made here during the month of August will be put towards the Building Fund to help towards the cost of the ongoing roof repair project. UK Sterling and foreign currency notes and coins are all welcome! Thank you for your support!

Donations are gratefully received at any time and can be made:

Donate to the building fund here

• by cash/cheque* sent to the Parish Office (61 York Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3JD) cheques should be made payable to ‘St Mary’s Cathedral’

• by bank transfer

Please remember to Gift Aid it if you can, if you are a UK taxpayer.

Gift Aid envelopes for the Building Fund are available at the back of the Church. Thank you!

MATCH FUNDING IN AUGUST

We are so grateful to an extremely generous benefactor who has offered to match all money raised for the Cathedral roof in August up to £50,000. So do please give as generously as you can to the Summer Appeal and double your money! 

Young Adults: Lectio Divina on the Gospel for Solemnity of the Assumption

Young Adults aged 18+ are welcome to join us for a Lectio Divina on Luke 1:39:56, the Gospel for the Mass of the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which we will celebrate on Friday, 15th August. Join us tomorrow, Monday, 11th August as we prepare for this great feast of Our Lady with a prayerful reading of the Gospel passage and take some time to reflect together on the Scripture reading. Doors open at 63 York Place at 7:00pm, with a trip to pub thereafter.

Tuesday 12 August: “Faith in the Footlights” as part ofthe Edinburgh Festival of the Sacred Arts

Musical theatre is often dismissed as trivial, shallow and essentially secular. Professor Ian Bradley challenges this, arguing in his book You’ve Got to Have a Dream that “musicals provide millions of people across the world not just with entertainment and escapism but with spiritual and theological values, a philosophy of life and an encounter with God”.

On Tuesday, 12 August at 7:30pm, join Professor Bradley and the Cathedral’s Schola Cantorum for a special concert exploring the spiritual implications of some of our best-loved musicals. The concert is the fourth in our series of yearly partnerships with the Edinburgh Festival of the Sacred Arts, and follows the very successful sacred jazz event last summer. Tickets are £18 (£12 concession) and are available from the Fringe Box Office, Eventbrite, or on the door. Book here: https://bit.ly/FaithFootlights

Appeal for Help to Set Up Mass in Ravelston — Training Session Offered

St Josemaria Escriva once said “Have you ever thought how you would prepare to receive Our Lord if you could go to Communion only once in your life? We must be thankful to God that He makes it so easy for us to come to Him: but we should show our gratitude by preparing ourselves very well to receive Him.” As much as we must prepare ourselves, the church must also be prepared and we need help at St Andrew’s, Ravelston, to prepare Mass. We are urgently looking for people who can commit to attending the celebration of Mass (Sunday to Friday), to join the great team of existing sacristans, setting up the altar and taking care of the altar linens. Ravelston Masses are Sundays at 10:30am Mass and Monday to Friday at 6:00pm. If we have enough people, this can mean the undertaking will only be a few times per month and takes about 15 minutes. A training session will be held on Saturday 30th August at St Andrew’s Church from 10.30am until 11.30am which will provide all the information you need. No booking is needed, please do come along.

Catenians Meeting for Catholic Men

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men to their regular meeting on Wednesday, 20th August, at 7.00 p.m. in 63 York Place. The Catenians are an international body of Catholic laymen who meet once a month and offer friendship and support to Catholic men and their families at all stages of their lives. For information contact John Russell on 01555 728032 or look on https://thecatenians.com/become-a-member/

Book on Life Story of 'Hibs priest' Now Available in St Pauls Bookshop!

Visit the Cathedral’s St Pauls Bookshop today and pick up your copy of Edinburgh’s First Hibernian, beautifully illustrated with numerous colour photos, and impressively well-researched, the book tells the life story of the Edinburgh priest Fr. Edward Hannan who helped found Hibernian Football Club and served the poor and destitute in the city. Written by Mike Hennessy, a native of Edinburgh, the book is the first biography of Fr. Hannan, who rose from poverty in rural Ireland to become one of the most influential figures in 19th-century Edinburgh. While parish priest at St Patrick's, Cowgate EH1 1TQ, he worked tirelessly in Old Town to provide Catholic boys with an education and a sense of fulfilment that could save them from falling into a life of crime. Details about Fr. Hannan and the book are at https://stpatricksedinburgh.com/hibernian-fc-canon-hannan/ Get your copy of this amazing and inspiring book today! Hardcover £25. The bookshop is open 10:00am to 5:30pm, 7 days a week.

St. Andrew’s Talks: ‘Faith in a Changing World’

A new series of St. Andrew’s Talks is set to begin this month, with the theme ‘Faith in a Changing World’, looking at how we as Catholics can live out our faith amidst the rapid changes in culture, technology and even Church environment. Join us in the Ravelston parish rooms (EH4 3DS) following 6:00pm Mass on Monday, 25 August for our first talk by Sr. Mary Benedicta Maier, RSM, who will speak on “Faith and Culture: Being Catholic in a Secular Age.” Refreshments will be available. Open to all.

Saturday Morning Mass, Confession and Eucharistic Adoration

Weekly Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is held at the Cathedral on Saturday mornings, after the celebration of 10:00am Mass. Adoration is from 10:30am-12:00pm concluding with Benediction, with Confession available during that time. Come for 30 minutes, 1 hour…. or more to adore the Lord Jesus, truly present for us in the Eucharist.

“The light of God’s face shines in all its beauty on the countenance of Jesus Christ, ‘the image of the invisible God’ (Col. 1:15)…the decisive answer to every one of man’s questions, his religious and moral questions in particular, is given by Jesus Christ, or rather is Jesus Christ himself…” (St. John Paul II, Encyclical Letter Veritatis Splendor)

St. Andrew’s, Ravelston: Wednesday Adoration, Confession and Mass

Especially in this Jubilee Year of Hope, all are encouraged to come for Eucharistic Adoration and begin a regular practice of coming to Confession. Every Wednesday at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston we have Eucharistic Adoration with Confessions 5:00pm-5:45pm, followed by 6:00pm Mass.

Marriage Preparation Courses

The next parish Marriage Preparation Courses are Saturday, 16th August and Saturday, 22nd November, both at St Andrew’s, Ravelston (EH4 3DS), with presentations by married couples. To register, please email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Save the Date: Parish BBQ at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston

All are welcome to our annual Parish Barbecue on Sunday 7th September at 1:30pm! Enjoy BBQ treats and salads to suit (both meat and vegetarian options), all included in ticket price. Various soft drinks, tea and coffee. And for a small charge, a cheeky glass of wine! Tickets on sale soon! As always there will fun and games for children (of all ages!), as well as a range of stalls including tombola, plants, books, bric-a-brac and a host of freshly baked goods. Please note that all stalls will be cash only on the day.

Edinburgh Latin Mass Community Summer Picnic

All are welcome to the Edinburgh Latin Mass Community Summer Picnic next Sunday, 17 August, 1:00pm-3:00pm at St. Andrew's Church gardens and parish rooms, Ravelston (EH4 3DS), with the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter. Come along for good food, great fellowship and games for the children. Questions? Email edinburgh@fssp.org

Relics of Soon-to-Be-Saint, Carlo Acutis, at the Cathedral

The relics of Carlo Acutis visit the Archdiocese from 13-15 September 2025, by which time he will be a saint of the Church! His canonisation is set for 7th September. Schedule: Sat 13 Sep - 6:00pm Vigil Mass (Cathedral open until 8:00pm for veneration of the relics); Sun 14 Sep - Midday Mass; Mon 15 Sep - 12:45pm Mass for Schools.

Final Vows: Sr. Maria Guadalupe, RSM

Please keep in your prayers Sister Maria Guadalupe, RSM, who will make her Profession of Perpetual Vows as a Religious Sister of Mercy of Alma, Michigan, USA, on Saturday, 16th August at 10:30am EST (3:30pm BST) at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw, Michigan, USA. Watch via livestream at https://saginaw.org/cathedral-live Many of you will remember Sr. Maria Guadalupe from her service here in the Archdiocese during 2019. Earlier in the week, Sr. Miriam Ruth, RSM, will be one of several Sisters renewing their vows on Thursday, 14 August, as they continue their preparation to profess Perpetual Vows in the coming years. The Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma (www.almamercy.org) are based at St Andrew's Convent in Ravelston, Edinburgh. Contact: edinburgh@almamercy.org

Want to Become Catholic? RCIA Begins in September

If you, or someone you know, would like to become Catholic, the way to do it is through our Cathedral RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) course. The group meets every Tuesday evening at 7:00pm-8:30pm at 61 York Place from Tuesday, 16th September. Register by phone at 0131 556 1798 or email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Altar Servers' Day: Prayer, Games and Activities

The Archdiocesan Day for Altar Servers is on Saturday 13 September 2025, 11:00am-3:00pm at The Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh. This year we will be in the presence of a saint - the relics of Carlo Acutis will be there! This is a day of faith, formation and fun, and concludes with Mass celebrated by Archbishop Leo. Register with Fr Robert at frrobert@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Donate to African Missions

Next weekend the Archdiocese encourages us to donate to African Missions & Holy Places. It supports missionary work in Africa, including evangelisation, education, and healthcare initiatives. It also helps maintain Christian holy places in Jerusalem, which are important pilgrimage sites. Online donations via the Archdiocese can be made at bit.ly/missionsholyplaces

Looking to Deepen Your Faith? Study Catholic Theology in Edinburgh

Apply now to study an MA in Applied Catholic Theology in Scotland. Evening classes, in person and online, with support funding available. To speak to the Course Lead, Stephen Dolan, in person email: stephen.dolan@stmarys.ac.uk Details at bit.ly/catholictheology

National Pilgrimage to Whithorn

The National Pilgrimage to Whithorn in honour of St Ninian will take place on Sunday 31 August. Mass at St Ninian’s Cave will be celebrated at 4:00pm outdoors on the beach of Port Castle Bay at 4 pm and for those unable to walk to the shore, Mass will be at 4.45 pm in the Church of St Martin and St. Further details are in the news section at https://rcdg.org.uk/

National Pilgrimage to Carfin

The National Pilgrimage takes place at Carfin Grotto, Scotland’s National Shrine to Our Lady of Lourdes, on Sunday 7 September at 3:00pm. Archbishop Leo will be the principal celebrant and preacher. The grotto is in the Parish of St Francis Xavier in the village of Carfin, near Motherwell, ML1 5AJ.

Edinburgh Sacred Arts Festival

An initiative of the Edinburgh Sacred Arts Foundation, the Edinburgh Sacred Arts Festival is from Sunday, 10 August to Saturday, 16 August 2025. Visit https://www.edinburghsacredartsfestival.org/ for details.

Seoul World Youth Day 2027 - “Take courage!”

Join young Catholics from around the world, converging in faith for World Youth Day 2027 in Seoul. Travel with the Archdiocese. Register your interest today at youth.office@staned.org.uk Learn more about the WYD event at https://wydseoul.org/en

Read the newsletter for 10 August (pdf)

18th Sunday of the Year – Year C

CATHEDRAL BUILDING FUND APPEAL

We’ve now raised £240,000 which is amazing! Thank you! Can you help us to reach our target of £500,000 for this round of works to the sacristy and chancel roofs and adjacent stonework?

Summer Second Collections

On weekends during the summer we will be taking a second collection for the building fund. The dates are this weekend and 16/17 August. There will be some Building Fund envelopes for you to use if you wish to Gift Aid your donation. You can pick these up at the back of the church.

This weekend, we have set up a dedicated point for donations to the Building Fund

In front of the passkeepers’ table, we have a new contactless device set up as well as a cash donation box. All donations made here during the month of August will be put towards the Building Fund to help towards the cost of the ongoing roof repair project. UK Sterling and foreign currency notes and coins are all welcome! Thank you for your support!

Donations are gratefully received at any time and can be made:

Donate to the building fund here

You can donate by cash/cheque sent to the Parish Office (61 York Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3JD). or via bank transfer.

Do please remember to Gift Aid it if you are a UK taxpayer.

Gift Aid envelopes for the Building Fund are available at the back of the Church. Thank you!

MATCH FUNDING IN JULY AND AUGUST

We are so grateful to an extremely generous benefactor who has offered to match all money raised for the Cathedral roof in July and August up to £50,000. So do please give as generously as you can to the Summer Appeal and double your money!

Festival Mass Next Sunday

Next Sunday, 10 August: His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, will celebrate the annual Festival Mass at Noon at the Cathedral. Join us at the start of the week of our Cathedral’s patronal feast - the Assumption, which falls on 15th August – during Edinburgh’s International Festival.

Tuesday 12 August: “Faith in the Footlights” as part ofthe Edinburgh Festival of the Sacred Arts

Musical theatre is often dismissed as trivial, shallow and essentially secular. Professor Ian Bradley challenges this, arguing in his book You’ve Got to Have a Dream that “musicals provide millions of people across the world not just with entertainment and escapism but with spiritual and theological values, a philosophy of life and an encounter with God”. On Tuesday, 12 August at 7:30pm, join Professor Bradley and the Cathedral’s Schola Cantorum for a special concert exploring the spiritual implications of some of our best-loved musicals. The concert is the fourth in our series of yearly partnerships with the Edinburgh Festival of the Sacred Arts, and follows the very successful sacred jazz event last summer. Tickets are £18 (£12 concession) and are available from the Fringe Box Office, Eventbrite, or on the door. Book here: https://bit.ly/FaithFootlights

Young Adults: Lectio Divina on the Gospel for Solemnity of the Assumption

Young Adults aged 18+ are welcome to join us for a Lectio Divina on Luke 1:39:56, the Gospel for the Mass of the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which we will celebrate on Friday, 15th August. Join us Monday, 11th August as we prepare for this great feast of Our Lady with a prayerful reading of the Gospel passage and take some time to reflect together on the Scripture reading. Doors open at 63 York Place at 7:00pm, with a trip to pub thereafter.

‘Jesus Prayer’ in the Cathedral

Over the last 34 weeks a small group of us have been meeting every Tuesday afternoon between 1 45pm and 2 15pm in front of St. Andrew's Altar to the right of the main sanctuary to pray the Jesus Prayer. This is a very ancient form of Contemplative intercessory Christian Prayer that has its roots in early Christian Monasticism and is centred around a simple phrase “Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy upon me, a sinner.” It is a great prayer of healing and reconciliation and is a very powerful prayer both in its depth and simplicity. Anyone wanting to explore this way of praying is very welcome. Please bring your Rosary beads with you to follow the Jesus Prayer.

Book on Life Story of 'Hibs priest' Now Available in St Pauls Bookshop!

Visit St Pauls Bookshop today and pick up your copy of Edinburgh’s First Hibernian, beautifully illustrated with numerous colour photos, and impressively well-researched, the book tells the life story of the Edinburgh priest Fr. Edward Hannan who helped found Hibernian Football Club and served the poor and destitute in the city. Written by Mike Hennessy, a native of Edinburgh, the book is the first biography of Fr. Hannan, who rose from poverty in rural Ireland to become one of the most influential figures in 19th-century Edinburgh. While parish priest at St Patrick's, Cowgate EH1 1TQ, he worked tirelessly in Old Town to provide Catholic boys with an education and a sense of fulfilment that could save them from falling into a life of crime. Details about Fr. Hannan and the book are at https://stpatricksedinburgh.com/hibernian-fc-canon-hannan/ Get your copy of this amazing and inspiring book today! Hardcover £25.

Welcome Sr. Mary Benedicta Maier, RSM

We welcome Sister Mary Benedicta Maier, RSM to the Religious Sisters of Mercy convent at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. In her service to the Archdiocese, Sister is the new Coordinator for SPRED (SPecial REligious Development), a Christian programme for children and adults with special needs. She is also Lay Minister Coordinator for Catholic schools. Sister professed Perpetual Vows in 2017. She has been a secondary school teacher, primary school headteacher, and bioethics educator in parishes and a health system. Raised Lutheran, she grew up with her four brothers and two sisters in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, and she was received into the Catholic Church in 2004 in Washington, D.C.

St. Andrew’s Talks: ‘Faith in a Changing World’

A new series of St. Andrew’s Talks is set to begin in August, with the theme ‘Faith in a Changing World’, looking at how we as Catholics can live out our faith amidst the rapid changes in culture, technology and even Church environment. Join us in the Ravelston parish rooms (EH4 3DS) following 6:00pm Mass on Monday, 25 August for our first talk by Sr. Mary Benedicta Maier, RSM, who will speak on “Faith and Culture: Being Catholic in a Secular Age.” Refreshments will be available. Open to all.

First Wednesdays — Prayers for Priests

The first Wednesday of each month, after the 12:45pm Mass, please join in prayers near the Lady Altar, including a Rosary and Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary, to ask Our Lady’s intercession for our priests. All are welcome to participate in the prayers on Wednesday, 6 August following 12:45pm Mass.

Saturday Morning Mass, Confession and Eucharistic Adoration

Weekly Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is held at the Cathedral on Saturday mornings, after the celebration of 10:00am Mass. Adoration is from 10:30am-12:00pm concluding with Benediction, with Confession available during that time. Come for 30 minutes, 1 hour…. or more to adore the Lord Jesus, truly present for us in the Eucharist.

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14)

St. Andrew’s, Ravelston: Wednesday Adoration, Confession and Mass

Especially in this Jubilee Year of Hope, all are encouraged to come for Eucharistic Adoration and begin a regular practice of coming to Confession. Every Wednesday at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston we have Eucharistic Adoration with Confessions 5:00pm-5:45pm, followed by 6:00pm Mass.

Marriage Preparation Courses

The next parish Marriage Preparation Courses are Saturday, 16th August and Saturday, 22nd November, both at St Andrew’s, Ravelston (EH4 3DS), with presentations by married couples. To register, please email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Save the Date: Parish BBQ at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston

All are welcome to our annual Parish Barbecue on Sunday 7th September at 1:30pm! Enjoy BBQ treats and salads to suit (both meat and vegetarian options), all included in ticket price. Various soft drinks, tea and coffee. And for a small charge, a cheeky glass of wine! Tickets on sale soon! As always there will fun and games for children (of all ages!), as well as a range of stalls including tombola, plants, books, bric-a-brac and a host of freshly baked goods. ** Please note that all stalls will be cash only on the day. **

Hope Dawns: A Retreat to Prepare for Advent

Thanks to each of you who have expressed interest in our two-night Advent Retreat to be held 14th -16th November at the Schoenstatt Shrine near Milton of Campsie. The retreat, considering the Jubilee Year theme of Hope in Advent, will begin at 3pm on Friday, 14th November and conclude at 3pm on Sunday, 16th November. There will be daily Mass, talks during the day, private time for prayer and discussion with others or with a priest and all meals will be provided. Schoenstatt is a well-appointed house run by a welcoming community of religious sisters and staff (https://www.schoenstatt.co.uk). There is still time to let us know of your interest and whether you would like to join coach transport to and from Schoenstatt. To register, visit https://bit.ly/Schoenstatt-Advent2025 or email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk, call the office 0131 556 1798.

Want to Become Catholic? RCIA Begins in September

If you, or someone you know, would like to become Catholic, the way to do it is through our Cathedral RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) course. The group meets every Tuesday evening at 7:00pm-8:30pm at 61 York Place from Tuesday, 16th September. Register by phone at 0131 556 1798 or email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Sea Sunday Thank You!

Stella Maris thanks the parish for its generosity on Sea Sunday 13 July and for the kindness shown to collectors.

Study Catholic Theology in Edinburgh

Registration is now open for the MA in Applied Catholic Theology at St Mary's University Scottish campus in Edinburgh. Details at bit.ly/catholictheology. Watch the preview webinar on the YouTube channel of the Archdiocese. Queries: stephen.dolan@stmarys.ac.uk. Develop your theological literacy through the study of topics including biblical interpretation, Christian anthropology, the foundations of Christian spirituality, spiritual direction, Catholic social teaching and systematic theology.

National Pilgrimage to Carfin

The National Pilgrimage takes place at Carfin Grotto, Scotland’s National Shrine to Our Lady of Lourdes, on Sunday 7 September at 3:00pm. Archbishop Leo will be the principal celebrant and preacher. On this day Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, will be canonised so it is an ideal day for the Scottish Catholics to come together to celebrate. Learn more about Carfin Grotto at https://www.carfingrotto.org/ The grotto is in the Parish of St Francis Xavier in the village of Carfin, near Motherwell, ML1 5AJ.

Venerable Margaret Sinclair

The Centenary Pilgrimage to pray for the Beatification of the Venerable Margaret Sinclair will take place on Sunday 21 September from 12:30-6:00pm at St Patrick's Church, Cowgate, Edinburgh, EH1 1NA. 12.30-1.30 Refreshments & sale of candles/goods; 1:30-2:30pm Holy Hour; 3:00-4:00pm Reflection; 4:30pm: Holy Mass concelebrated with Archbishop Leo. Confessions available all day. Details on Venerable Margaret Sinclair are available at https://www.margaretsinclair.scot/

Save the Dates

• The Archdiocesan Day for Altar Servers is on Saturday 13 September at The Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh. Details to follow.

• The National Youth Pilgrimage to Perth is on Saturday 20 September. Details to follow.

• His Grace, the Archbishop, will celebrate the annual Red Mass at Noon on Sunday 21 September here at the Cathedral. The Mass will see members of Scotland’s legal fraternity come together for the for the Mass, marking the start of the new legal year.

• A relic of ‘God’s influencer’, Blessed Carlo Acutis who will be canonised by Pope Leo XIV on 7 September, will visit St Mary’s Cathedral from Saturday 13 to Monday 15 September. Save the dates!

‘So You Want to Be a Good Catholic Doctor?’

An Annual Intensive 2-Day National Catholic Medical Association UK Course will be offered Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd November 2025 at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Conference Centre, 51 Cambridge Park, Wanstead, London E11 2PR. The course is titled ‘Principles and Practical Guide to Functioning Ethically in an Increasingly Secular Healthcare Environment in the UK and Eire’ and is offered for medical students, doctors in training, senior doctors, and allied healthcare professionals. Speakers include experienced Catholic doctors, plus Bishop John Keenan of Paisley. Visit the Scottish Catholic Medical Association (SCMA) website: https://scottishcma.co.uk/home / to register.

Events at Christian Heritage Centre at Stonyhurst College

What is God? Philosophical, Christian and Islamic Approaches

A course from 22-25 August 2025 in partnership with CEPHAS (https://cephas.org.uk/) will look at the nature and knowledge of God from a pre-religious, philosophical understanding, before comparing the Islamic concept of God with the Christian, leaning on St Thomas Aquinas’ elaboration of the Trinity and the Incarnation. For cost details (bursaries available) and booking visit: https://christianheritagecentre.com/events/what-is-god/

Weekend Retreat: The Martyr-Saints of the North-West, 12 – 14 September 2025

Join us for this weekend studying some of the Reformation-era martyrs of the North-West region. Part-retreat, part-biographical, the weekend will be led by Mgr John Allen of Salford Diocese, who has recently published a history of the diocese with a foreword by Eamon Duffy. For more information and to book: https://christianheritagecentre.com/events/the-martyr-saints-of-the-north-west Single room: £230 p.p.

Twin room (sharing): £175 p.p. Costs include full board from Friday dinner to Sunday lunch inclusive. Non-residential (includes lunches and dinners): £115.

Both events are at Theodore House, Stonyhurst, Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 9PZ, in the tranquil and beautiful surroundings. Contact: bookings@theodorehouse.com, 01254 827 084.

Edinburgh Sacred Arts Festival

An initiative of the Edinburgh Sacred Arts Foundation, the Edinburgh Sacred Arts Festival is from Sunday, 10 August to Saturday, 16 August 2025. Visit https://www.edinburghsacredartsfestival.org/ for details and full programme.

Read the newsletter for 3rd August (pdf)

17th Sunday of the Year – Year C

Thank You from Archbishop Cushley

Dear friends, I was very touched by your presence and prayers last Sunday as I celebrated my 40 years of priesthood with you. A particular word of thanks to Michael and Tom and our wonderful choir. You were all superb as always. The flowers beautified the cathedral, and my family and friends were warmly welcomed by you all. Finally, let me thank all of you who left many cards and gifts for me. It was very thoughtful, and I am very grateful for your graciousness and generosity. Thank you and God bless you! +Leo

Cathedral Building Fund Appeal

We’ve now raised £240,000 which is amazing! Thank you! Can you help us to reach our target of £500,000 for this round of works to the sacristy and chancel roofs and adjacent stonework?

Summer Second Collections – On weekends during the summer we will be taking a second collection for the building fund. The dates are 2/3 August and 16/17 August. There will be some Building Fund envelopes for you to use if can Gift Aid your donation; pick these up at the back of the church.

Click here to donate to the Cathedral Building Fund

• by cash/cheque sent to the Parish Office (61 York Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3JD).

Do please remember to Gift Aid if you are a UK taxpayer.

Gift Aid envelopes for the Building Fund are available at the back of the Church.

Match funding in July and August

We are so grateful to an extremely generous benefactor who has offered to match all money raised for the Cathedral roof in July and August up to £50,000. So do please give as generously as you can to the Summer Appeal and double your money, thank you!

Young Adults: Lectio Divina on the Gospel for Solemnity of the Assumption

Young Adults aged 18+ are welcome to join us for a Lectio Divina on Luke 1:39:56, the Gospel for the Mass of the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which we will celebrate on Friday, 15th August. Join us Monday, 11th August as we prepare for this great feast of Our Lady with a prayerful reading of the Gospel passage and take some time to reflect together on the Scripture reading. Doors open at 63 York Place at 7:00pm, with a trip to pub thereafter.

St. Andrew’s Talks: ‘Faith in a Changing World’

A new series of St. Andrew’s Talks is set to begin in August, with the theme ‘Faith in a Changing World’, looking at how we as Catholics can live out our faith amidst the rapid changes in culture, technology and even Church environment. Join us in the Ravelston parish rooms (EH4 3DS) following 6pm Mass on Monday, 25 August for our first talk by Sr. Mary Benedicta Maier, RSM, who will speak on “Faith and Culture: Being Catholic in a Secular Age.” Refreshments will be available. Open to all.

Saturday Morning Mass, Confession and Eucharistic Adoration

Weekly Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is held at the Cathedral on Saturday mornings, after the celebration of 10:00am Mass. Adoration is from 10:30am-12:00pm concluding with Benediction, with Confession available during that time. Come for 30 minutes, 1 hour…. or more to adore the Lord Jesus, truly present for us in the Eucharist.

“…for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge...” (Psalm 73:28)

St. Andrew’s, Ravelston: Wednesday Adoration, Confession and Mass

Especially in this Jubilee Year of Hope, all are encouraged to come for Eucharistic Adoration and begin a regular practice of coming to Confession. Every Wednesday at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston we have Eucharistic Adoration with Confessions 5:00pm-5:45pm, followed by 6:00pm Mass.

Cathedral Featured in Edinburgh City Centre Historic Churches Walking Trail Guide’

The Cathedral is among 10 churches included in the new ‘Ecumenical Edinburgh City Centre Historic Churches Walking Trail Guide’. Visit https://edinburgh.anglican.org/churches-walking-trail/ for a map and https://archedinburgh.org/historic-churches-walking-trail-unveiled/ for details and list of the churches. Some copies of the trail leaflet are available at the back of church.

Marriage Preparation Courses

The next parish Marriage Preparation Courses are Saturday, 16th August and Saturday, 22nd November, both at St Andrew’s, Ravelston (EH4 3DS), with presentations by married couples. To register, please email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

First Wednesdays — Prayers for Priests

The first Wednesday of each month, after the 12:45pm Mass, please join in prayers near the Lady Altar, including a Rosary and Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary, to ask Our Lady’s intercession for our priests. All are welcome to participate in the prayers on Wednesday, 6 August February following 12:45pm Mass.

Festival Mass

Sunday, 10 August: His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, will celebrate the annual Festival Mass at Noon at the Cathedral. Join us at the start of the week of our Cathedral’s patronal feast - the Assumption, which falls on 15th August – during Edinburgh’s International Festival.

Tuesday 12 August: “Faith in the Footlights” as part ofthe Edinburgh Festival of the Sacred Arts

Musical theatre is often dismissed as trivial, shallow and essentially secular. Professor Ian Bradley challenges this, arguing in his book You’ve Got to Have a Dream that “musicals provide millions of people across the world not just with entertainment and escapism but with spiritual and theological values, a philosophy of life and an encounter with God”. On 12 August at 7:30pm, join Professor Bradley and the Cathedral’s Schola Cantorum for a special concert exploring the spiritual implications of some of our best-loved musicals. The concert is the fourth in our series of yearly partnerships with the Edinburgh Festival of the Sacred Arts, and follows the very successful sacred jazz event last summer. Tickets are £18 (£12 concession) and are available from the Fringe Box Office, Eventbrite, or on the door. Book here: https://bit.ly/FaithFootlights

Hope Dawns: A Retreat to Prepare for Advent

Thanks to so many who have expressed interest in our two-night Advent Retreat to be held 14th -16th November at the Schoenstatt Shrine near Milton of Campsie. The retreat, considering the Jubilee Year theme of Hope in Advent, will begin at 3pm on Friday, 14th November and conclude at 3pm on Sunday, 16th November. There will be various talks during the day, private time for prayer and discussion with others or with a priest and all meals will be provided for the duration. There will be the celebration of Mass every day, too. The retreat centre at Schoenstatt is a well-appointed house run by a welcoming community of religious sisters and staff (https://www.schoenstatt.co.uk). If you would like to attend, there is still time to let us know of your interest and if would require coach transport to and from Schoenstatt. To register, visit https://bit.ly/Schoenstatt-Advent2025 or email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk call the office 0131 556 1798.

Friendship Group: Coffee Afternoon

The Friendship Group Coffee Afternoon is on Tuesdays 2:00pm-3:30pm in Coffee Saints. Open to all over 60; enjoy a 20% discount during the session time. Please come along and join us!

Mass at Carfin for World Day for Grandparents & the Elderly

To celebrate World Day for Grandparents & the Elderly today, join Bishop John Keenan at 3:00pm for Mass at St Francis Xavier’s Church, Taylor Avenue, Carfin, ML1 5AJ. The Holy Father’s message for this day calls us to treasure the gift of grandparents and the elderly:

“How often our grandparents have been for us examples of faith and devotion, civic virtue and social commitment, memory and perseverance amid trials! The precious legacy that they have handed down to us with hope and love will always be a source of gratitude and a summons to perseverance.” (Pope Leo XIV)

Practical Advice on Parenting and Family Life

Mike and Alicia Hernon, Catholic parents of 10 and grandparents to 8, empower parents to embrace their sacred calling as the primary educators of their children. Their podcast – now one of the top podcasts in the world for Catholic parents – is available at https://messyfamilyproject.org/podcasts/ or on Apple Podcasts. Visit https://messyfamilyproject.org/ for a wide selection of free resources and courses with practical advice and insights for parents, plus courses for couples and families. Videos on parenting and family life available at https://www.youtube.com/c/MessyFamilyProject

Postcards: Join the Fight Back – Every Life Matters

Pick up a postcard at the back of church from the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children to get your Action Pack with details about what you can do to help defend life at this critical time: in the space of one week in June 2025, MPs voted to allow women to abort their baby up to birth for any reason. Life is under attack at every stage. But we must work to build culture of life, because every life matters.

Book on Life Story of 'Hibs priest' Set for Launch

Our St Pauls Bookshop will soon have copies of the life story of the Edinburgh priest who helped found Hibernian FC and served the poor and destitute in the city. The new book titled Edinburgh’s First Hibernian, written by Mike Hennessy, a native of Edinburgh, will be released Wednesday, 6 August and is the first biography of Fr. Edward Hannan, who rose from poverty in rural Ireland to become one of the most influential figures in 19th-century Edinburgh. While parish priest at St Patrick's, Cowgate, he worked tirelessly in Old Town to provide Catholic boys with an education and a sense of fulfilment that could save them from falling into a life of crime. The book can be bought online at Thirsty Books, https://www.thirstybooks.com/bookshop/edinburghs-first-hibernian Signed copies will be available from St Patrick's Church, which will receive proceeds from sales.

Polish Memorials Conservation Programme, Summer 2025

Please note that a team of Polish conservationists together with Polish scouts training in conservation will work within Mount Vernon Cemetery 7th-16th August on Polish memorials throughout the cemetery. This may include cleaning, re-erecting and re-gilding. If you do not wish your family memorial to be included in the programme please contact cemetery manager, Anna Kulwicka, on 0131 623 8906 by 6th August, 2025.

National Pilgrimage to Carfin

The National Pilgrimage takes place at Carfin Grotto, Scotland’s National Shrine to Our Lady of Lourdes, on Sunday 7 September at 3:00pm. Archbishop Leo will be the principal celebrant and preacher. On this day Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, will be canonised so it is an ideal day for the Scottish Catholics to come together to celebrate. Learn more about Carfin Grotto at https://www.carfingrotto.org/ The grotto is in the Parish of St Francis Xavier in the village of Carfin, near Motherwell, ML1 5AJ.

Save the Dates

• The Archdiocesan Day for Altar Servers is on Saturday 13 September at The Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh. Details to follow.

• The National Youth Pilgrimage to Perth is on Saturday 20 September. Details to follow.

• His Grace, the Archbishop, will celebrate the annual Red Mass at Noon on Sunday 21 September here at the Cathedral. The Mass will see members of Scotland’s legal fraternity come together for the for the Mass, marking the start of the new legal year.

• A relic of ‘God’s influencer’, Blessed Carlo Acutis who will be canonised by Pope Leo XIV on 7 September, will visit St Mary’s Cathedral from Saturday 13 to Monday 15 September. Save the dates!

Venerable Margaret Sinclair

The Centenary Pilgrimage to pray for the Beatification of the Venerable Margaret Sinclair will take place on Sunday 21 September from 12:30-6:00pm at St Patrick's Church, Cowgate, Edinburgh, EH1 1NA. 12.30-1.30 Refreshments & sale of candles/goods; 1:30-2:30pm Holy Hour; 3:00-4:00pm Reflection; 4:30pm: Holy Mass concelebrated with Archbishop Leo. Confessions available all day. Details on Venerable Margaret Sinclair are available at https://www.margaretsinclair.scot/

Are You a Catechist?

Learn about events and resources and collaborate with the Archdiocesan Catechetics Commission by registering for the Catechist Contact List. Go to bit.ly/archcatechists. This is for anyone involved in teaching the faith - such as RCIA, Children's Liturgy, First Holy Communion, Marriage prep, SPRED etc.

Pregnancy Support

There are a number of free and confidential resources available to women with unplanned pregnancies, or women who have had an abortion. Consider connecting with St. Margaret’s Children and Family Care Society (https://stmargaretsadoption.org.uk/), or Abortion Recovery Care and Helpline https://www.archtrust.org.uk/ The Alma Mater Fund provides financial grants to pregnant students facing difficulties at universities https://spuc.org.uk/support-hub/alma-mater/

Hope and Healing After Abortion: Rachel's Vineyard

Rachel's Vineyard is healing ministry that offers a safe place to renew and rebuild your life after experiencing the trauma of abortion. Retreat weekends offer you a supportive, confidential and non-judgemental environment where women and men can deal with painful post-abortive emotions. A Glasgow area retreat will be held 27-29 October 2025. Contact rachel@rachelsvineyard.org.uk to get more information on Rachel's Vineyard and any upcoming retreats or visit https://www.rachelsvineyard.org.uk

Catholic Parliamentary Office Updates

The Catholic Parliamentary Office is an agency of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland and promotes Catholic Social Teaching in the public square, engaging with the work of Parliament and Government to ensure that the Church’s voice is heard on relevant issues. To receive updates on this important work, sign up at https://rcpolitics.org/ or follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/rcpolitics

Read the newsletter for 27th July (pdf)

The 16th Sunday of Ordinary Time - Year C

Archbishop Leo Cushley’s 40th Anniversary of Priesthood

His Grace, Archbishop Leo Cushley, will celebrate the Noon Mass today in thanksgiving for his 40th anniversary of priesthood. We offer our prayers and congratulations on this significant anniversary! The Archbishop was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Motherwell on 7 July, 1985. After serving as a priest for several years he was invited to join the diplomatic service of the Holy See. He has worked in Burundi, Portugal, South Africa, Namibia, Swaziland, Lesotho and Botswana. He was First Secretary for the Holy See’s Observer Mission to the United Nations in New York from 2004 to 2007. From 2009 to 2013 he served in the Vatican and was head of the English-language section of the Secretariat of State. He was installed as the 8th Archbishop of St. Andrews and Edinburgh in 2013.

Cathedral Building Fund

We’ve raised £225,000 so far which is amazing! Thank you! Can you help us to reach our target of £500,000 for this round of works to the sacristy and chancel roofs and adjacent stonework?

Summer Second Collections – On weekends during the summer we will be taking a second collection for the building fund. The dates are this weekend, 2/3 August and 16/17 August. There will be some Building Fund envelopes for you to use if you wish to Gift Aid your donation. You can pick these up at the back of the church.

Donations are gratefully received at any time and can be made:

Donate to the Cathedral Building Fund here

You can donate by cash/cheque sent to the Parish Office (61 York Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3JD).

Do please remember to Gift Aid if you are a UK taxpayer.

Match funding in July and August

We are so grateful to an extremely generous benefactor who has offered to match all money raised for the Cathedral roof in July and August up to £50,000. So do please give as generously as you can to the Summer Appeal and double your money!

Marriage Preparation Courses

The next parish Marriage Preparation Courses are Saturday, 16th August and Saturday, 22nd November, both at St Andrew’s, Ravelston (EH4 3DS), with presentations by married couples. To register, please email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Saturday Morning Mass, Confession and Eucharistic Adoration

Weekly Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is held at the Cathedral on Saturday mornings, immediately after the celebration of 10:00am Mass. Adoration is from 10:30am-12:00pm concluding with Benediction, with Confession available during that time. Come for 30 minutes, 1 hour…. or more to adore the Lord Jesus, truly present for us in the Eucharist.

“If you seek an example of charity, greater love no man hath than that a man lay down his life for his friends (John 25:13), and this Christ did on the cross.” (St. Thomas Aquinas)

Legion of Mary – Students & Professionals Group

The Legion of Mary is a lay association of Catholics which seeks to help its members grow in holiness through devotion to Our Lady and by carrying out works of mercy. All are welcome to join. Our presidium name is Our Lady Cause of our Joy. We meet every Monday at 7:00 pm at 63 York Place, Edinburgh EH1 3JD. We are a group of mixed male and female members, students and professionals and from different countries, cultures. For more information contact phone number: Monika – 07751213612, Emmy – 07879074240.

Tuesday 12 August: “Faith in the Footlights” as part ofthe Edinburgh Festival of the Sacred Arts

Musical theatre is often dismissed as trivial, shallow and essentially secular. Professor Ian Bradley challenges this, arguing in his book You’ve Got to Have a Dream that “musicals provide millions of people across the world not just with entertainment and escapism but with spiritual and theological values, a philosophy of life and an encounter with God”. On 12 August at 7:30pm, join Professor Bradley and the Cathedral’s Schola Cantorum for a special concert exploring the spiritual implications of some of our best-loved musicals. The concert is the fourth in our series of yearly partnerships with the Edinburgh Festival of the Sacred Arts, and follows the very successful sacred jazz event last summer. Tickets are £18 (£12 concession) and are available from the Fringe Box Office, Eventbrite, or on the door. Book here: https://bit.ly/FaithFootlights

Friendship Group: Coffee Afternoon

The Friendship Group Coffee Afternoon is on Tuesdays 2:00pm-3:30pm in Coffee Saints. Open to all over 60; enjoy a 20% discount during the session time. Please come along and join us!

St. Andrew’s, Ravelston: Wednesday Adoration, Confession and Mass

Especially in this Jubilee Year of Hope, all are encouraged to come for Eucharistic Adoration and begin a regular practice of coming to Confession. Every Wednesday at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston we have Eucharistic Adoration with Confessions 5:00pm-5:45pm, followed by 6:00pm Mass.

Hope Dawns: A Retreat to Prepare for Advent

Thanks to so many who have expressed interest in our two-night Advent Retreat to be held 14th -16th November at the Schoenstatt Shrine near Milton of Campsie. The retreat, considering the Jubilee Year theme of Hope in Advent, will begin at 3pm on Friday, 14th November and conclude at 3pm on Sunday, 16th November. The retreat centre at Schoenstatt is a well-appointed house run by a welcoming community of religious sisters and staff https://www.schoenstatt.co.uk) If you would like to attend, there is still time to let us know of your interest and if would require coach transport to and from Schoenstatt. To register, visit https://bit.ly/Schoenstatt-Advent2025 or email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk call the office 0131 556 1798

St Pauls Bookshop: Bibles, Children’s Books, Rosaries, Cards and More!

Visit our St. Pauls Bookshop for Bibles, a wide variety of books on the saints and various spiritual classics, beautiful rosaries, holy cards, many children’s books on Jesus and the saints, as well as statues and paintings of Jesus and Mary. Visit the second-hand bookshelf, too. Donations of used Catholic books in good condition are welcome! Framed photos of Pope Leo XIV, A4 (£18.50) & A3 (£29.95). Open daily 10am-5pm. 0131 510 4260, edinburgh@stpauls.org.uk

Save the Date: Festival Mass

Sunday, 10 August: His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, will celebrate the annual Festival Mass at Noon at the Cathedral. Join us at the start of the week of our Cathedral’s patronal feast - the Assumption, which falls on 15th August – during Edinburgh’s International Festival.

Disabled Parking for Blue Badge Holders

If you have a Blue Badge for disabled parking, drive to Mass and would like to use the St. James’ Car Park for Sunday morning Mass at the Cathedral, please fill out a form at the back of Church and return it to the Office, or email your name, contact details, parking permit number, expiry date and car registration number to cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk The Car Park offers free disabled parking on Sundays, 8:30am-1:30pm. Outside of those hours, normal parking fees will apply.

Weekly Cathedral and Monthly Archdiocesan Updates By E-Mail

Cathedral News: Receive the Cathedral newsletter straight into your inbox! Stay in touch with the Cathedral through the weekly e-newsletter. Sign up at the ‘Stay in Touch’ section on the bottom of any page of www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk, or bookmark this page in your browser Archdiocesan News: For a monthly e-mail update from the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh, subscribe at https://archedinburgh.org/news-events (scroll to bottom of page).

Book on Life Story of 'Hibs priest' Set for Launch

The life story of the Edinburgh priest who helped found Hibernian FC and who served the poor and destitute in the city will be released 6 August. Edinburgh’s First Hibernian by Mike Hennessy, a native of Edinburgh, is the first biography of Fr. Edward Hannan, who rose from poverty in rural Ireland to become one of the most influential figures in 19th-century Edinburgh. While parish priest at St Patrick's in the Cowgate, he worked tirelessly in the medieval Old Town to provide Catholic boys with an education and a sense of fulfilment that could save them from falling into a life of crime. The book can be bought online at Thirsty Books, https://www.thirstybooks.com/bookshop/edinburghs-first-hibernian Signed copies will be available from St Patrick's Church in The Cowgate, which will receive proceeds from those sales.

Polish Memorials Conservation Programme, Summer 2025

Please note that a team of Polish conservationists together with Polish scouts training in conservation will work within Mount Vernon Cemetery 7th-16th August on Polish memorials throughout the cemetery. This may include cleaning, re-erecting and re-gilding. If you do not wish your family memorial to be included in the programme please contact cemetery manager, Anna Kulwicka, on 0131 623 8906 by 6th August, 2025.

Postcards: Join the Fight Back – Every Life Matters

Pick up a postcard at the back of church from the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children to get your Action Pack with details about what you can do to help defend life at this critical time: in the space of one week in June 2025, MPs voted to allow women to abort their baby up to birth for any reason. Life is under attack at every stage. But we must work to build culture of life, because every life matters.

Launch of ‘Ecumenical Edinburgh City Centre Historic Churches Walking Trail Guide’

A walk is planned around all the 10 participating churches for a new ‘Ecumenical Edinburgh City Centre Historic Churches Walking Trail Guide’, including St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral. The walk will be launched on Thursday, 24th July with a group leaving from St Giles' Cathedral, High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RE, at 10.30am to walk the trail and drop off leaflets including the trail guide at each of the churches if open, ending at St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral, Palmerston Place, EH12 5AW. Come along to St. Giles for 10:30am, Thursday, 24th if you would like to join the walk, estimated at approximately 2 hours.

World Day for Grandparents & the Elderly

To celebrate this day, the National Marriage, Family and Life Commission of the Bishops' Conference of Scotland invites everyone to St Francis Xavier’s Church, Taylor Avenue, Carfin, ML1 5AJ, for Mass with Bishop John Keenan at 3:00pm on Sunday 27 July.

National Pilgrimage to Carfin

The National Pilgrimage takes place at Carfin Grotto, Scotland’s National Shrine to Our Lady of Lourdes, on Sunday 7 September at 3:00pm. Archbishop Leo will be the principal Celebrant and Preacher. On this day Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, will be canonised so it is an ideal day for the Scottish Catholics to come together to celebrate. Learn more about Carfin Grotto at https://www.carfingrotto.org/ The grotto is in the Parish of St Francis Xavier in the village of Carfin, near Motherwell, ML1 5AJ.

Save the Dates

• The Archdiocesan Day for Altar Servers is on Saturday 13 September at The Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh. Details to follow.

• The National Youth Pilgrimage to Perth is on Saturday 20 September. Details to follow.

• His Grace, the Archbishop, will celebrate the annual Red Mass at Noon on Sunday 21 September here at the Cathedral. The Mass will see members of Scotland’s legal fraternity come together for the for the Mass, marking the start of the new legal year.

• A relic of ‘God’s influencer’, Blessed Carlo Acutis who will be canonised by Pope Leo XIV on 7 September, will visit St Mary’s Cathedral from Saturday 13 to Monday 15 September. Save the dates!

Are You a Catechist?

Learn about events and resources and collaborate with the Archdiocesan Catechetics Commission by registering for the Catechist Contact List. Go to bit.ly/archcatechists. This is for anyone involved in teaching the faith - such as RCIA, Children's Liturgy, First Holy Communion, Marriage prep, SPRED etc.

Venerable Margaret Sinclair

The Centenary Pilgrimage to pray for the Beatification of the Venerable Margaret Sinclair will take place on Sunday 21 September from 12:30-6:00pm at St Patrick's Church, Cowgate, Edinburgh, EH1 1NA. 12.30-1.30 Refreshments & sale of candles/goods; 1:30-2:30pm Holy Hour; 3:00-4:00pm Reflection; 4:30pm: Holy Mass concelebrated with Archbishop Leo. Confessions available all day. Details on Venerable Margaret Sinclair are available at https://www.margaretsinclair.scot/

Study Catholic Theology in Edinburgh

Registration is now open for the MA in Applied Catholic Theology at St Mary's University Scottish campus in Edinburgh. Details at bit.ly/catholictheology. Watch the preview webinar on the YouTube channel of the Archdiocese. Queries: stephen.dolan@stmarys.ac.uk. Develop your theological literacy through the study of topics including biblical interpretation, Christian anthropology, the foundations of Christian spirituality, spiritual direction, Catholic social teaching and systematic theology.

Visit Coffee Saints Café Today!

Our very popular Coffee Saints café is a social enterprise partnership between the Cathedral and the Grassmarket Community Project. This means that every time you make a purchase at Coffee Saints you support some of Edinburgh’s most vulnerable people. Browse the menu at https://www.coffeesaints.co.uk/. The café is open 7 days a week 8:30am-4:00pm! You can book online through itison for a cake, brunch or tea for two at https://bit.ly/CoffeeSaintsDeals

Read the newsletter for 20th July (pdf)

Fourteenth Sunday of the Year - Year C

Cathedral Building Fund Appeal

We’ve raised £225,000 so far which is amazing! Thank you! Can you help us to reach our target for this round of works to the sacristy and chancel roofs and adjacent stonework?

Summer Second Collections – On four weekends during the summer we will be taking a second collection for the building fund. The dates are 5/6 July, 19/20 July, 2/3 August and 16/17 August. There will be some Building Fund envelopes for you to use if you wish to Gift Aid your donation. You can pick these up at the back of the church.

Donations are gratefully received at any time and can be made:

• through our website: www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/donate

• by cash/cheque sent to the Parish Office (61 York Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3JD).

Do please remember to Gift Aid it if you are a UK taxpayer.

Fundraising Team – If you have any fundraising ideas for this project or you think you could help us to coordinate our fundraising campaign by joining the team, please do let us know. Speak to one of the clergy after Mass or contact the office cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

We would love to hear from you!

Hope Dawns: A Retreat to Prepare for Advent.

You are invited to join our two-night advent retreat from the 14-16th November at the Schoenstatt Shrine near Milton of Campsie. The retreat, considering the Jubilee Year theme of Hope in Advent, will begin at 3pm on Friday and conclude at 3pm on Sunday 16th November. The retreat centre at Schoenstatt is a well-appointed house run by a welcoming community of religious sisters and staff. At this point we are looking to hear from you if you are interested in joining the retreat and if so, whether you would require coach transport to and from Schoenstatt. You can register by emailing cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk, calling the office 0131 556 1798

St Pauls Bookshop: Pope Leo XIV Framed Photos, Cathedral Gifts

Visit our St. Pauls Bookshop for framed photos of Pope Leo XIV, A4 (£18.50) & A3 (£29.95). Pick up a Cathedral notebook, water bottle or notecards or a copy of the History of the Cathedral, Little Ireland and books on Venerable Margaret Sinclair or the Song of the Poor about Fr. Tommy Greenan. Visit the second-hand bookshelf and discover a treasure to enjoy for your spiritual reading this summer. Donations of used Catholic books in good condition are welcome! Open daily 10am-5pm. Contact the shop at 0131 510 4260, edinburgh@stpauls.org.uk

Save the Date: Archbishop Leo's 40th Anniversary of Priesthood

Join us on Sunday, 20th July at Noon Mass celebrated by His Grace, Archbishop Leo Cushley, as we pray with him in thanksgiving for his 40th anniversary of priesthood, with a reception to follow in Coffee Saints. Please mark your diary for this special occasion as we celebrate the Lord's blessings in the priestly life and ministry of the shepherd of our Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh.

Save the Date: Festival Mass

Sunday, 10 August: His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, will celebrate the annual Festival Mass at Noon at the Cathedral. Join us at the start of the week of our Cathedral’s patronal feast - the Assumption, which falls on 15th August – during Edinburgh’s International Festival.

Saturday Morning Eucharistic Adoration

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament offers us a time for peaceful prayer and quiet before Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. You are welcome to join us every Saturday from 10:30am-12:00pm for this beautiful time of adoration. Saturday Confessions are from 10:30am-12:00pm. Come for 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour…. or more to adore the Lord Jesus, fully present for us in the Eucharist.

“The Lord, having loved those who were his own, loved them to the end....In order to leave them a pledge of this love, in order never to depart from his own and to make them sharers in his Passover, he instituted the Eucharist as the memorial of his death and Resurrection....” (CCC 1337)

Mass Intentions

“Having a Mass said” for others is an ancient practice in the Church. A Mass can be offered for a specific intention, such as for the death anniversary of a family member or friend, for a wedding anniversary, for someone who is sick or another special intention. The offering of Mass in this way is a beautiful act of prayer that expresses our communion with others, living and dead, asking that the infinite grace of Christ’s redemptive sacrifice be applied to their particular needs. It is also a form of almsgiving in that offerings (donations) for Mass intentions are part of our contribution towards the good of the church and support of our priests. Intentions for the current week are already published in the newsletter, so please remember to make requests for Mass dates with at least 2 weeks’ notice. You may use the Mass Intention envelopes at the back of church (place in the Sunday collection or hand to one of the priests) or online at https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/intentions and bank details will be sent to you.

Sea Sunday

Next Sunday, 13th July, is Sea Sunday, on which the church remembers all those whose living comes from the sea. There will be a short talk from Anne Marie and a retiral collection for the work of Stella Maris, the official maritime charity of the Catholic church.

Study Catholic Theology in Edinburgh

Registration is now open for the MA in Applied Catholic Theology at St Mary's University Scottish campus in Edinburgh. Details at bit.ly/catholictheology. Watch the preview webinar on the YouTube channel of the Archdiocese. Queries: stephen.dolan@stmarys.ac.uk

Scottish Polish Cultural Association Concert The Warsaw Concerto

The Scottish Polish Cultural Association is honoured to host for the third time Steinway Artist, Rafael A. Luszczewski, who will perform "The Warsaw Concerto" in his own arrangement for piano solo. Rafael is a superb Polish pianist, regarded as one of the best interpreters of Chopin’s works. The concert is on Saturday 13th July at 7pm. It is limited to 40 seats only so please book early. You will be treated to a fantastic musical performance in the beautiful intimate surroundings of the Edinburgh Society of Musicians in Edinburgh, a rare appearance of Rafael Luszczewski in Scotland. Tickets only £15.00 per person (including a glass of wine)Book online at www.scotpoles.co.uk

Faith Movement Summer Session for Young Adults at Ampleforth Abbey

The Faith Movement is back at Ampleforth Abbey this summer for our 49th annual summer session from 28 July - 1 August 2025. The theme of our five-day Catholic conference for young adults is Christ: Our Eucharist, Earth's Light and Jubilee. Spend a week in beautiful York with other young adults aged 16-30 exploring the faith with a variety of social, spiritual and catechetical activities. The focus of the week will be the series of talks, each building on one another to develop a coherent, dynamic vision of the faith. Each day there will be Mass, Morning and Night prayer and, on one of the evenings, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Confessions. There will also be plenty of time for recreation and socialising each night. Please register at www.faith.co.uk/events

‘Stories of Belief’ Exhibition in Edinburgh

As Edinburgh celebrates its 900th anniversary, take a journey through 900 years of faith and belief in an exciting audio-visual exhibition, sponsored by the Edinburgh Interfaith Association, on display in June and July in three locations throughout the city. The National Shrine of St. Andrew at St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral will be featured in the exhibition, with historical photos and copies of Vatican documents. The exhibit invites visitors to add their own stories, is free to enter and will be held 23rd June to 29th June – New College, University of Edinburgh EH1 2LX; 1st July-15th July – St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral EH12 5AW; 16th July – 23rd July –St James Quarter EH1 3AD. On the first date of each venue showing, the exhibition will open at midday, and on the last day of each venue showing, the exhibition will close at midday. More information at https://bit.ly/StoriesofBelief

August: Monastic Experience Weekend for Men at Pluscarden Abbey

The community of Benedictine monks at Pluscarden offer a special opportunity for men to experience what monastic life is all about Friday 22nd-Monday 25th August. This opportunity is suitable for single men who are Catholic, practise their faith, are aged 18-40, and at least open to the possibility of considering a monastic vocation. Participants will join the monks in their daily prayer and work. No charge for the weekend. Register at https://www.pluscardenabbey.org/monastic-experience-weekend

Pray Daily with the Monks of Pluscarden Abbey

The monks of Pluscarden Abbey welcome you to join with them in prayer on livestream. Tune in daily to pray at https://www.pluscardenabbey.org/live

A timetable of the monks’ scheduled prayers each day is at https://www.pluscardenabbey.org/services. Prayer texts are available online: https://universalis.com/. Pluscarden Abbey is a Catholic Benedictine monastery near Elgin, Scotland.

Church Representative for City of Edinburgh Council

The Archdiocese is seeking to appoint an individual to represent the views of Roman Catholic Churches in Education to the Local Councils on their behalf for a fixed three year term. This is a supported voluntary role, any travel expenses occurred in the role are reimbursed by the Archdiocese. For further information please speak to one of the clergy after mass or email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Parish Communicators

The Archdiocese is hosting a webinar for those who are involved with parish communications (such as Facebook and newsletters). It takes place on Saturday 19 July, 10:00am-11:00am. The session will give tips and guidance on parish social media and more. Register at bit.ly/parishcomms

Save the Date

The Venerable Margaret Sinclair Pilgrimage Day is on Saturday 21 September 2025 at St Patricks in The Cowgate, Edinburgh. More details coming soon.

Carmelite Pilgrimage in October

The Carmelites in London are offering a 7-day pilgrimage to Spain ‘Walk in St. Teresa's Footsteps’ from 10th – 16th October 2025, led by Fr Matt Blake, OCD and Fr Kelvin Ekhoegbe, OCD. Join in this adventure with St Teresa in her transformative journey of the soul to God through prayer. Walk in her footsteps as she lived and taught. To book and to see full details visit https://www.carmelite.uk.net/pilgrimage/avila-retreat-pilgrimage-2025/

Edinburgh Festival of the Sacred Arts - "Faith in the Footlights": a special concert by the Schola Cantorum on Tuesday 12 August at 7:30pm

Join renowned author Ian Bradley and the Cathedral’s Schola Cantorum for a special concert exploring the spiritual resonances of musical theatre. In this groundbreaking event, Professor Bradley will uncover some of the spiritual implications of our much-loved musical shows, while the Schola Cantorum will bring the music to life in performance! The evening is part of the Edinburgh Festival of the Sacred Arts, and will include music from The Sound of Music, South Pacific, Fiddler on the Roof, Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables and much more. It’s one for all the family, but be prepared: you will never hear these musical shows in quite the same way again! Tickets are £18 (£12 concession) and are available from the Fringe Box Office, Eventbrite, or on the door. Book here: https://bit.ly/FaithFootlights

Shalom World  Free Catholic Movies, News, Shows and More

Shalom World is a Catholic, commercial-free, 24/7, HD family entertainment channel. “Change what you watch and watch the world change!” https://www.shalomworld.org/

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is the shared responsibility of everyone to ensure the safety and protection of children, young people and vulnerable adults. It is also about ensuring the safe behaviour of everyone who has a duty of care within our Catholic communities, whether they are ordained or lay, and whether they work in a paid or voluntary role. Safeguarding is not only a way to respond to harm but must be proactive in the prevention of any form of abuse or harm. You can find more information on the posters at church, online (https://www.scssa.org.uk/Safeguarding) or contact Chris McCabe or Elizabeth Andrews, Parish Safeguarding Convenors (Chris.McCabe@staned.org.uk, Elizabeth.Andrews@staned.org.uk, phone: 0131 556 1798). All volunteers must follow the approved recruitment process before they can start their volunteer role. If you have not completed and obtained written approval as part of your volunteer role then please contact Chris McCabe or Elizabeth Andrews. The Bishop’s Conference of Scotland has a mandatory Reporting Policy which requires all safeguarding allegations to be reported to Police Scotland, whether the accused is alive or deceased.

Read the newsletter for 6th July (pdf)

Solemnity of Saint Peter and Saint Paul – Year C

Sale of Crux Magazine Today

Pick up your copy of the new issue of Crux today at only £5, with all proceeds going to our Cathedral! Crux is the magazine for all friends of the Cathedral where you can learn about the interesting stories affecting the life of our vibrant parish. In this issue, you can follow our Pilgrimage to Spain last October; hear from Dana, a winner of Eurovision; read about the time one of our parishioners met Pope Francis in Rome – and much more! In this bumper issue, we lead with Archbishop Cushley’s Requiem Mass for the late Pope Francis at the Cathedral. Friends receive every issue of Crux mailed directly to them. Join Friends at www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/friends

CATHEDRAL BUILDING FUND APPEAL

We’ve raised £225,000 so far which is amazing! Thank you! Can you help us to reach our target for this round of works to the sacristy and chancel roofs and adjacent stonework?

Summer Second Collections – On four weekends during the summer we will be taking a second collection for the building fund. The dates are 5/6 July, 19/20 July, 2/3 August and 16/17 August. There will be some Building Fund envelopes for you to use if you wish to Gift Aid your donation. You can pick these up at the back of the church.

Donations are gratefully received at any time and can be made:

• through our website: www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/donate

• by cash/cheque sent to the Parish Office (61 York Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3JD).

Remember to Gift Aid it if you are a UK taxpayer.

Fundraising Team – If you have any fundraising ideas for this project or you think you could help us to coordinate our fundraising campaign by joining the team, please do let us know. Speak to one of the clergy after Mass or contact the office cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk We would love to hear from you!

Save the Date: Quiz Night Friday, 4th July

Our quiz team has been busy and have prepared a popcorn-fuelled night of brainteasing revelry to be celebrated of Friday 4th of July from 6.30pm. There will be popcorn and Budweiser along with our usual selection of drinks from our ever-friendly quiz team behind the bar (Leo’s Lions). There will be a cash prize for the winning team and something for the runners up with all proceeds going to “Raise the Roof” of the Cathedral. Tickets will be £10 per head. You may form your own team (up to 6 persons) or join a team on the night. We will take email bookings at catherdralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk with hard copy tickets being sold after the Masses over the last two weekends in June. If you would like to volunteer to help with the running of the event, please contact Deacon Peter at deacon@stmaryscathedral.co.uk Thank you!

St Pauls Bookshop: Pope Leo XIV Framed Photos, Cathedral Gifts

Visit our St. Pauls Bookshop for framed photos of Pope Leo XIV, A4 (£18.50) & A3 (£29.95). Pick up a Cathedral notebook, water bottle or notecards or a copy of the History of the Cathedral, Little Ireland and books on Venerable Margaret Sinclair or the Song of the Poor about Fr. Tommy Greenan. Visit the second-hand bookshelf and discover a treasure to enjoy for your spiritual reading this summer. Donations of used Catholic books in good condition are welcome! Open daily 10am-5pm. Contact the shop at 0131 510 4260, edinburgh@stpauls.org.uk

Save the Date: Archbishop Leo's 40th Anniversary of Priesthood

Join us on Sunday, 20th July at Noon Mass celebrated by His Grace, Archbishop Leo Cushley, as we pray with him in thanksgiving for his 40th anniversary of priesthood, with a reception to follow in Coffee Saints. Please mark your diary for this special occasion as we celebrate the Lord's blessings in the priestly life and ministry of the shepherd of our Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh.

Save the Date: Festival Mass

Sunday, 10 August: His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, will celebrate the annual Festival Mass at Noon at the Cathedral. Join us at the start of the week of our Cathedral’s patronal feast - the Assumption, which falls on 15th August – during Edinburgh’s International Festival.

Special Collection, Peter's Pence

The Vatican is encouraging Catholics to participate in today's special collection to support the Holy Father in his mission at the service of the universal Church. Your contribution is an expression of support for the needs of the Catholic Church around the world and the charitable works it carries out.

Saturday Morning Eucharistic Adoration

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament offers us a time for peaceful prayer and quiet before Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. You are welcome to join us every Saturday from 10:30am-12:00pm for this beautiful time of adoration. Saturday Confessions are from 10:30am-12:00pm. Come for 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour…. or more to adore the Lord Jesus, fully present for us in the Eucharist.

“The Lord, having loved those who were his own, loved them to the end....In order to leave them a pledge of this love, in order never to depart from his own and to make them sharers in his Passover, he instituted the Eucharist as the memorial of his death and Resurrection....” (CCC 1337)

Mass Intentions

“Having a Mass said” for others is an ancient practice in the Church. A Mass can be offered for a specific intention, such as for the death anniversary of a family member or friend, for a wedding anniversary, for someone who is sick or another special intention. The offering of Mass in this way is a beautiful act of prayer that expresses our communion with others, living and dead, asking that the infinite grace of Christ’s redemptive sacrifice be applied to their particular needs. It is also a form of almsgiving in that offerings (donations) for Mass intentions are part of our contribution towards the good of the church and support of our priests. Intentions for the current week are already published in the newsletter, so please remember to make requests for Mass dates with at least 2 weeks’ notice. You may use the Mass Intention envelopes at the back of church (place in the Sunday collection or hand to one of the priests) or online at https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/intentions and bank details will be sent to you.

Talk on Blessed Antonio Rosmini: Priest, Philosopher & Prophet

Talk by Fr Antonio Bellsito IC at St Kentigern's Church, 26-28 Parkgrove Avenue, Edinburgh, EH4 7QR, on Tuesday 1 July at 6:00pm. Mass will follow the talk. Refreshments served.

Study Catholic Theology in Edinburgh

Registration is now open for the MA in Applied Catholic Theology at St Mary's University Scottish campus in Edinburgh. Details at bit.ly/catholictheology. Watch the preview webinar on the YouTube channel of the Archdiocese. Queries: stephen.dolan@stmarys.ac.uk

Scottish Polish Cultural Association Concert The Warsaw Concerto

The Scottish Polish Cultural Association is honoured to host for the third time Steinway Artist, Rafael A. Luszczewski, who will perform "The Warsaw Concerto" in his own arrangement for piano solo. Rafael is a superb Polish pianist, regarded as one of the best interpreters of Chopin’s works. The concert is on Saturday 13th July at 7pm. It is limited to 40 seats only so please book early. You will be treated to a fantastic musical performance in the beautiful intimate surroundings of the Edinburgh Society of Musicians in Edinburgh, a rare appearance of Rafael Luszczewski in Scotland. Tickets only £15.00 per person (including a glass of wine)B ook online at www.scotpoles.co.uk

Faith Movement Summer Session for Young Adults at Ampleforth Abbey

The Faith Movement is back at Ampleforth Abbey this summer for our 49th annual summer session from 28 July - 1 August 2025. The theme of our five-day Catholic conference for young adults is Christ: Our Eucharist, Earth's Light and Jubilee. Spend a week in beautiful York with other young adults aged 16-30 exploring the faith with a variety of social, spiritual and catechetical activities. The focus of the week will be the series of talks, each building on one another to develop a coherent, dynamic vision of the faith. Each day there will be Mass, Morning and Night prayer and, on one of the evenings, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Confessions. There will also be plenty of time for recreation and socialising each night. Please register at www.faith.co.uk/events

‘Stories of Belief’ Exhibition in Edinburgh

As Edinburgh celebrates its 900th anniversary, take a journey through 900 years of faith and belief in an exciting audio-visual exhibition, sponsored by the Edinburgh Interfaith Association, on display in June and July in three locations throughout the city. The National Shrine of St. Andrew at St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral will be featured in the exhibition, with historical photos and copies of Vatican documents. The exhibit invites visitors to add their own stories, is free to enter and will be held 23rd June to 29th June – New College, University of Edinburgh EH1 2LX; 1st July-15th July – St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral EH12 5AW; 16th July – 23rd July –St James Quarter EH1 3AD. On the first date of each venue showing, the exhibition will open at midday, and on the last day of each venue showing, the exhibition will close at midday. More information at https://bit.ly/StoriesofBelief

August: Monastic Experience Weekend for Men at Pluscarden Abbey

The community of Benedictine monks at Pluscarden offer a special opportunity for men to experience what monastic life is all about Friday 22nd-Monday 25th August. This opportunity is suitable for single men who are Catholic, practise their faith, are aged 18-40, and at least open to the possibility of considering a monastic vocation. Participants will join the monks in their daily prayer and work. No charge for the weekend. Register at https://www.pluscardenabbey.org/monastic-experience-weekend

Pray Daily with the Monks of Pluscarden Abbey

The monks of Pluscarden Abbey welcome you to join with them in prayer on livestream. Tune in daily to pray at https://www.pluscardenabbey.org/live A timetable of the monks’ scheduled prayers each day is at https://www.pluscardenabbey.org/services Prayer texts are available online: https://universalis.com/. Pluscarden Abbey is a Catholic Benedictine monastery near Elgin, Scotland.

Church Representative for City of Edinburgh Council

The Archdiocese is seeking to appoint an individual to represent the views of Roman Catholic Churches in Education to the Local Councils on their behalf for a fixed three year term. This is a supported voluntary role, any travel expenses occurred in the role are reimbursed by the Archdiocese. For further information please speak to one of the clergy after mass or email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Parish Communicators

The Archdiocese is hosting a webinar for those who are involved with parish communications (such as Facebook and newsletters). It takes place on Saturday 19 July, 10:00am-11:00am. The session will give tips and guidance on parish social media and more. Register at bit.ly/parishcomms

Save the Date

The Venerable Margaret Sinclair Pilgrimage Day is on Saturday 21 September 2025 at St Patricks in The Cowgate, Edinburgh. More details coming soon.

Carmelite Pilgrimage in October

The Carmelites in London are offering a 7-day pilgrimage to Spain ‘Walk in St. Teresa's Footsteps’ from 10th – 16th October 2025, led by Fr Matt Blake, OCD and Fr Kelvin Ekhoegbe, OCD. Join in this adventure with St Teresa in her transformative journey of the soul to God through prayer. Walk in her footsteps as she lived and taught. To book and to see full details visit https://www.carmelite.uk.net/pilgrimage/avila-retreat-pilgrimage-2025/

Shalom World Free Catholic Movies, News, Shows and More

Shalom World is a Catholic, commercial-free, 24/7, HD family entertainment channel. “Change what you watch and watch the world change!” https://www.shalomworld.org/

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is the shared responsibility of everyone to ensure the safety and protection of children, young people and vulnerable adults. It is also about ensuring the safe behaviour of everyone who has a duty of care within our Catholic communities, whether they are ordained or lay, and whether they work in a paid or voluntary role. Safeguarding is not only a way to respond to harm but must be proactive in the prevention of any form of abuse or harm. You can find more information on the posters at church, online (https://www.scssa.org.uk/Safeguarding) or contact Chris McCabe or Elizabeth Andrews, Parish Safeguarding Convenors (Chris.McCabe@staned.org.uk, Elizabeth.Andrews@staned.org.uk phone: 0131 556 1798). All volunteers must follow the approved recruitment process before they can start their volunteer role. If you have not completed and obtained written approval as part of your volunteer role then please contact Chris McCabe or Elizabeth Andrews. The Bishop’s Conference of Scotland has a mandatory Reporting Policy which requires all safeguarding allegations to be reported to Police Scotland, whether the accused is alive or deceased.

Read the newsletter for 29th June (pdf)

Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ – Year C

Sale of Crux Magazine

Pick up your copy of the new issue of Crux today at only £5, with all proceeds going to our Cathedral! Crux is the magazine for all friends of the Cathedral where you can learn about the interesting stories affecting the life of our vibrant parish. In this issue, you can follow our Pilgrimage to Spain last October; hear from Dana, a winner of Eurovision; read about the time one of our parishioners met Pope Francis in Rome – and much more! In this bumper issue, we lead with Archbishop Cushley’s Requiem Mass for the late Pope Francis at the Cathedral. Friends receive every issue of Crux mailed directly to them. Join Friends at www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/friends

CATHEDRAL ROOF UPDATE AND FUNDRAISING

We are finally able to announce that the repairs to our Cathedral roof over Sacristy 1 have a start date of Monday, 7 July! The initial work on the roof over Sacristy 1 was going to start in June and last 12 weeks, however, after the survey was reviewed, we determined that we could combine Phase 1 with parts of Phase 2 over a period of 18 weeks making considerable savings on set up costs.

Our target for fundraising for these two phases of work is £500,000. That’s a lot of money but the good news is that from Advent 2023 to date together with some funds from previous general fundraising, we have already raised over £200,000! Thank you so much for your generous support.

We will be collecting donations regularly through the summer months specifically for the Cathedral’s Building Fund, the main project for which, currently, is the repairs to the Cathedral roof. In addition to these collections, donations to the Cathedral Building Fund can be made at any time, through our website.

Donate here

You can also donate by cash/cheque sent to the Parish Office (61 York Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3JD). Do please remember to Gift Aid it if you are a UK taxpayer. If you have any fundraising ideas for this project, please speak to Fr Jeremy or contact the Parish Office at cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Fundraising Team: If you think you could help us to coordinate our fundraising campaign by joining the team, please do let us know. Speak to one of the clergy after Mass or contact the office. We would love to hear from you!

Welcome to the Cathedral!

The Cathedral is always delighted to welcome visitors from around the world, but this week, we have a particular word of welcome to extend to Jacob Miller. Jacob is a seminarian for the Diocese of Metuchen, New Jersey, and is studying for the priesthood at the Pontifical North American College in Rome. He has just concluded his first year there and as first year seminarians from the ‘NAC’ don’t return home during their first summer, he has come to St Mary’s Cathedral for some pastoral experience – as well as cooler weather.

Congratulations!

A special word to all the children who make their First Holy Communion this weekend. Altogether nearly 50 children received the Sacrament for the first time surrounded by their friends and family at St Andrew’s on Saturday and today with the parish community looking on, during the 9am Mass at the Cathedral. It is a significant day for them but also a beautiful reminder for us, celebrating the first time we received the sacrament which is the source and summit of the Christian life, and on this weekend – the Body and Blood of Jesus. Many congratulations also to Li and Celia who were baptised and received the bread of heaven for the first time at the vigil Mass last night. Please keep them all in your prayers.

Save the Date: Quiz Night Friday, 4th July

Our quiz team has been busy and have prepared a popcorn-fuelled night of brainteasing revelry to be celebrated of Friday 4th of July from 6.30pm. There will be popcorn and Budweiser along with our usual selection of drinks from our ever-friendly quiz team behind the bar (Leo’s Lions). There will be a cash prize for the winning team and something for the runners up with all proceeds going to “Raise the Roof” of the Cathedral. Tickets will be £10 per head. You may form your own team (up to 6 persons) or join a team on the night. We will take email bookings at catherdralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk with hard copy tickets being sold after the Masses over the last two weekends in June. If you would like to volunteer to help with the running of the event, please contact Deacon Peter at deacon@stmaryscathedral.co.uk Thank you!

Calling all Trades!

The Cathedral is a complex building that requires a variety of trades to keep up with maintenance and repairs. We are always looking for businesses that can be called upon to assist us in this endeavour. If you are an owner or an employee of a company that specialises in plumbing, joinery, decorating, electrical or all of the above and would like to be considered for work here at the Cathedral, please contact Darlene Newman at complexmanager@stmaryscathedral.co.uk.

St Pauls Bookshop: Pope Leo XIV Framed Photos, Cathedral Gifts

Visit our St. Pauls Bookshop for framed photos of Pope Leo XIV, A4 (£18.50) & A3 (£29.95). Pick up a Cathedral notebook, water bottle or notecards or a copy of the History of the Cathedral, Little Ireland and books on Venerable Margaret Sinclair or the Song of the Poor about Fr. Tommy Greenan. Visit the second-hand bookshelf and discover a treasure to enjoy for your spiritual reading this summer. Donations of used Catholic books in good condition are welcome! Open daily 10am-5pm. Contact the shop at 0131 510 4260, edinburgh@stpauls.org.uk.

Save the Date: Archbishop Leo's 40th Anniversary of Priesthood

Join us on Sunday, 20th July at Noon Mass celebrated by His Grace, Archbishop Leo Cushley, as we pray with him in thanksgiving for his 40th anniversary of priesthood, with a reception to follow in Coffee Saints. Please mark your diary for this special occasion as we celebrate the Lord's blessings in the priestly life and ministry of the shepherd of our Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh.

Save the Date: Festival Mass

Sunday, 10 August: His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, will celebrate the annual Festival Mass at Noon at the Cathedral. Join us at the start of the week of our Cathedral’s patronal feast - the Assumption, which falls on 15th August – during Edinburgh’s International Festival.

Special Collection – Next Sunday!

A special collection will be taken next week for Peter’s Pence. Peter's Pence is a financial offering made by Catholics worldwide to the Holy See, the central governing body of the Catholic Church, to support the Pope's charitable works and the needs of the universal Church

Talk on Blessed Antonio Rosmini: Priest, Philosopher & Prophet

Talk by Fr Antonio Bellsito IC at St Kentigern's Church, 26-28 Parkgrove Avenue, Edinburgh, EH4 7QR, on Tuesday 1 July at 6:00pm. Mass will follow the talk. Refreshments served.

Study Catholic Theology in Edinburgh

Registration is now open for the MA in Applied Catholic Theology at St Mary's University Scottish campus in Edinburgh. Details at bit.ly/catholictheology. Watch the preview webinar on the YouTube channel of the Archdiocese. Queries: stephen.dolan@stmarys.ac. uk

Retreat Christian Heritage Centre: Unveiled Faces: Healing & Transformation with the Saints, 27 – 29 June 2025

A weekend led by Fr Emmanuel Mansford, CFR contemplating the healing and transformational work of grace in the ordinary and imperfect lives of the saints. In the light of their example, the retreat will offer an opportunity to reflect on and to seek healing for the wounds in our own lives.

For more information and to book: https://christianheritagecentre.com/events/unveiled-faces/

Corpus Christi Procession - Sunday 22 June

Archbishop Leo will lead the Archdiocesan Corpus Christi Procession from St Patrick’s Church, 30 Low Craigends, Kilsyth, Glasgow G65 0PF at 3:00pm on Sunday 22 June. This is a joyous occasion with the Blessed Sacrament being carried through the streets.

First Holy Communicants in the Archdiocese are invited to take a special place in the procession wearing their formal clothes. Parking at the Church.

Free shuttle bus from Croy train station to the Church - email priest.stpatrickskilsyth@staned.org.uk or 01236 822136 to book. Details at https://archedinburgh.org/news-events/

Scottish Polish Cultural Association Concert: The Warsaw Concerto

The Scottish Polish Cultural Association is honoured to host for the third time Steinway Artist, Rafael A. Luszczewski, who will perform "The Warsaw Concerto" in his own arrangement for piano solo. Rafael is a superb Polish pianist, regarded as one of the best interpreters of Chopin’s works. The concert will be limited to 40 seats only so please book early. You will be treated to a fantastic musical performance in the beautiful intimate surroundings of the Edinburgh Society of Musicians in Edinburgh, a rare appearance of Rafael Luszczewski in Scotland. Tickets only £15.00 per person (including a glass of wine)Book online at www.scotpoles.co.uk

Jubilee Year Picnic for Families

Join families from across the Archdiocese for a Jubilee Year picnic on Saturday 28 June, 11:00am – 4:00pm at The Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. There will be spiritual talks on the theme of Hope and talks and games for children. Includes Rosary at The Grotto and concludes with Holy Mass in St Margaret's Chapel. At 4:00pmthere is the chance to walk to the Jubilee Cross at St Mary's Cathedral (optional). Childcare provided. Register at bit.ly/archpicnic

Volunteers Needed: The Marriage & Families Commission is requesting volunteers to help at the picnic. Please contact Fr Benedict Iwatt at VEmarriage@staned.org.uk if you would like to volunteer. Thank you!

Faith Movement Summer Session for Young Adults at Ampleforth Abbey

The Faith Movement is back at Ampleforth Abbey this summer for our 49th annual summer session from 28 July - 1 August 2025. The theme of our five-day Catholic conference for young adults is Christ: Our Eucharist, Earth's Light and Jubilee. Spend a week in beautiful York with other young adults aged 16-30 exploring the faith with a variety of social, spiritual and catechetical activities. The focus of the week will be the series of talks, each building on one another to develop a coherent, dynamic vision of the faith. Each day there will be Mass, Morning and Night prayer and, on one of the evenings, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Confessions. There will also be plenty of time for recreation and socialising each night. Please register at www.faith.co.uk/events

‘Stories of Belief’ Exhibition in Edinburgh

As Edinburgh celebrates its 900th anniversary, take a journey through 900 years of faith and belief in an exciting audio-visual exhibition, sponsored by the Edinburgh Interfaith Association, on display in June and July in three locations throughout the city. The National Shrine of St. Andrew at St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral will be featured in the exhibition, with historical photos and copies of Vatican documents. The exhibit invites visitors to add their own stories, is free to enter and will be held 23rd June to 29th June – New College, University of Edinburgh EH1 2LX; 1st July-15th July – St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral EH12 5AW; 16th July – 23rd July –St James Quarter EH1 3AD. On the first date of each venue showing, the exhibition will open at midday, and on the last day of each venue showing, the exhibition will close at midday. More information at https://bit.ly/StoriesofBelief.

August: Monastic Experience Weekend for Men at Pluscarden Abbey

The community of Benedictine monks at Pluscarden offer a special opportunity for men to experience what monastic life is all about Friday 22nd-Monday 25th August. This opportunity is suitable for single men who are Catholic, practise their faith, are aged 18-40, and at least open to the possibility of considering a monastic vocation. Participants will join the monks in their daily prayer and work. No charge for the weekend. Register at https://www.pluscardenabbey.org/monastic-experience-weekend

Church Representative For City of Edinburgh Councilcx

The Archdiocese is seeking to appoint an individual to represent the views of Roman Catholic Churches in Education to the Local Councils on their behalf for a fixed three year term. This is a supported voluntary role, any travel expenses occurred in the role are reimbursed by the Archdiocese. For further information please speak to one of the clergy after mass or email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Parish Communicators

The Archdiocese is hosting a webinar for those who are involved with parish communications (such as Facebook and newsletters). It takes place on Saturday 19 July, 10:00am-11:00am. The session will give tips and guidance on parish social media and more. Register at bit.ly/parishcomms

Save the Date

The Venerable Margaret Sinclair Pilgrimage Day is on Saturday 21 September 2025 at St Patricks in The Cowgate, Edinburgh. More details coming soon.

Carmelite Pilgrimage in October

The Carmelites in London are offering a 7-day pilgrimage to Spain ‘Walk in St. Teresa's Footsteps’ from 10th – 16th October 2025, led by Fr Matt Blake, OCD and Fr Kelvin Ekhoegbe, OCD. Join in this adventure with St Teresa in her transformative journey of the soul to God through prayer. Walk in her footsteps as she lived and taught. To book and to see full details visit https://www.carmelite.uk.net/pilgrimage/avila-retreat-pilgrimage-2025/

Read the newsletter for 22nd June (pdf)

The Most Holy Trinity – Year C

Sale of Crux Magazine this weekend

Pick up your copy of the new issue of Crux this weekend at only £5, with all proceeds going to our Cathedral! Crux is the magazine for all friends of the Cathedral where you can learn about the interesting stories affecting the life of our vibrant parish. In this issue, you can follow our Pilgrimage to Spain last October; hear from Dana, a winner of Eurovision; read about the time one of our parishioners met Pope Francis in Rome – and much more! In this bumper issue, we lead with Archbishop Cushley’s Requiem Mass for the late Pope Francis at the Cathedral. Friends receive every issue of Crux mailed directly to them. Join Friends at www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/friends

CATHEDRAL ROOF UPDATE AND FUNDRAISING

We are finally able to announce that the repairs to our Cathedral roof over Sacristy 1 have a start date of Monday, 7 July! The initial work on the roof over Sacristy 1 was going to start in June and last 12 weeks, however, after the survey was reviewed, we determined that we could combine Phase 1 with parts of Phase 2 over a period of 18 weeks making considerable savings on set up costs.

Our target for fundraising for these two phases of work is £500,000. That’s a lot of money but the good news is that from Advent 2023 to date together with some funds from previous general fundraising, we have already raised over £200,000! Thank you so much for your generous support.

We will be collecting donations regularly through the summer months specifically for the Cathedral’s Building Fund, the main project for which, currently, is the repairs to the Cathedral roof. In addition to these collections, donations to the Cathedral Building Fund can be made at any time, either through our website.

Donate to the Cathedral roof appeal

Alternatively, you can donate by cash/cheque sent to the Parish Office (61 York Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3JD). Do please remember to Gift Aid it if you can, if you are a UK taxpayer. If you have any fundraising ideas for this project, please speak to Fr Jeremy or contact the Parish Office at cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Fundraising Team – If you think you could help us to coordinate our fundraising campaign by joining the team, please do let us know. Speak to one of the clergy after Mass or contact the office. We would love to hear from you!

Save the Date: Quiz Night Friday, 4th July

Our quiz team has been busy and have prepared a popcorn-fuelled night of brainteasing revelry to be celebrated of Friday 4th of July from 6.30pm. There will be popcorn and Budweiser along with our usual selection of drinks from our ever-friendly quiz team behind the bar (Leo’s Lions). There will be a cash prize for the winning team and something for the runners up with all proceeds going to “Raise the Roof” of the Cathedral. Tickets will be £10 per head. You may form your own team (up to 6 persons) or join a team on the night. We will take email bookings at catherdralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk with hard copy tickets being sold after the Masses over the last two weekends in June. If you would like to volunteer to help with the running of the event, please contact Deacon Peter at deacon@stmaryscathedral.co.uk Thank you!

Calling all Trades!

The Cathedral is a complex building that requires a variety of trades to keep up with maintenance and repairs. We are always looking for businesses that can be called upon to assist us in this endeavour. If you are an owner or an employee of a company that specialises in plumbing, joinery, decorating, electrical or all of the above and would like to be considered for work here at the Cathedral, please contact Darlene Newman at complexmanager@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Catenians Meeting for Catholic Men

The Catenian Association invites Catholic men to their meeting this Wednesday, 18 June, at 7:00p.m. in 63 York Place. The Catenians are an international body of Catholic laymen who meet once a month and offer friendship and support. Contact 01555 728032 or https://thecatenians.com/become-a-member/

No Saturday Morning Adoration on 21 June

This upcoming Saturday, 21 June, there will be no Adoration after 10:00am Mass due to the celebration of Holy First Communion for the Polish Community. Confession will be available after Mass until 11:00am. Adoration will return as normal the following weekend.

Quiz Night and Pot Luck Supper in aid of SCIAF (Parish Project 2025)

Last week’s sell-out Quiz Night and Pot Luck Supper at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston was a very enjoyable and successful event and a fantastic £693.40 was raised for the Parish Project from ticket sales and donations on the night. Thank you to everyone who helped at and supported this event, especially to our quiz master, Guy and to Fergus and Marie for pulling it all together. Following this event, we have now collated all donations received to date for this year’s Parish Project as well as monies raised through the quiz and a number of other fundraising events (our bacon roll sale in May, VE Day tea and Steak pie night). I am now very pleased to tell you that you have raised a total of £2,174.02! This is a great achievement and a cheque for this amount has now been sent to SCIAF. Thank you all for your generosity

St Pauls Bookshop: Pope Leo XIV Framed Photos, Cathedral Gifts

Visit our St. Pauls Bookshop for framed photos of Pope Leo XIV, A4 (£18.50) & A3 (£29.95). Pick up a Cathedral notebook, water bottle or notecards or a copy of the History of the Cathedral, Little Ireland and books on Venerable Margaret Sinclair or the Song of the Poor about Fr. Tommy Greenan. .Visit the second-hand bookshelf and discover a treasure to enjoy for your spiritual reading this summer. Donations of used Catholic books in good condition are welcome! Open daily 10am-5pm. Contact the shop at 0131 510 4260, edinburgh@stpauls.org.uk

Save the Date: Archbishop Leo's 40th Anniversary of Priesthood

Join us on Sunday, 20th July at Noon Mass celebrated by His Grace, Archbishop Leo Cushley, as we pray with him in thanksgiving for his 40th anniversary of priesthood, with a reception to follow in Coffee Saints. Please mark your diary for this special occasion as we celebrate the Lord's blessings in the priestly life and ministry of the shepherd of our Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh.

Save the Date: Festival Mass

Sunday, 10 August: His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, will celebrate the annual Festival Mass at Noon at the Cathedral. Join us for this beautiful celebration of our Sunday Liturgy at the start of the week of our Cathedral’s patronal feast (the Assumption) on 15th August in the season of Edinburgh’s International Festival.

Special Collection Today: Day for Life

The Day for Life is when we celebrate the dignity of all human life from conception to natural death. It takes place today, Sunday 15 June and a collection will be taken up at all Masses for the work of the apostolate of life. Learn more at https://archedinburgh.org/prolife/. This year’s theme is Hope Does Not Disappoint – Finding Meaning in Suffering and we are invited to pray for those who suffer and to remain with them, bearing witness to their unique and unrepeatable value. Thank you for your support!

Meeting on Assisted Dying Bills

Campaign Against Assisted Dying(CAAD) is hosting a meeting in the church hall at Sts Ninian & Triduana, 12 Marionville Drive, Edinburgh, EH7 6BW at 7.15pm, Tuesday 17th June. The vote on the Westminster bill may take place on 20th June. There is still time to let your MP know your concerns either by post, email, phone call and maybe surgery visit. Visit https://www.writetothem.com/

Regardless, of that outcome, the Scottish Bill will return to Holyrood in the Autumn. You will be most welcome to come and join a group to plan activities to stop this legislation in Scotland.

Online Information Event: MA in Applied Catholic Theology

Deepen your faith and grow confident in evangelisation through a Master’s in applied Catholic Theology at St Mary's University Scottish campus in Edinburgh. The course includes classes in biblical interpretation, Christian anthropology; the foundations of Christian spirituality, spiritual direction, Catholic social teaching, systematic theology. Are you interested in finding out more? Join us for an online information event on Zoom at 6:00pm on Tuesday 17 June where you can hear from staff and current students. Register at bit.ly/stmarysuni or email stephen.dolan@stmarys.ac.uk

Portraits of Courage

Aid to the Church in Need hosts a moving photo exhibition on the plight of persecuted Christians across the world. It takes place on Thursday 19 June from 6:00-8:00pm at Dalziel Building, 7 Scott Street, Motherwell ML1 1PN. Tickets are free by calling 01698 337 470 or search 'Portraits of Courage' on Eventbrite.

Annual Canon Hannan Memorial Mass

The annual Canon Hannan Memorial Mass will take place on Saturday 21st June at 12.30pm at St Patrick's, Cowgate. We remember his 30 years as their Parish Priest and in particular this year’s celebration of 150 years since the Foundation of Hibernian Football Club under his direction. His biography 'Edinburgh's First Hibernian' will be published on 6 August, the actual anniversary of the founding of the Club.

Corpus Christi Procession - Sunday 22 June

Archbishop Leo will lead the Archdiocesan Corpus Christi Procession from St Patrick’s Church, 30 Low Craigends, Kilsyth, Glasgow G65 0PF at 3:00pm on Sunday 22 June. This is a joyous occasion with the Blessed Sacrament being carried through the streets.

First Holy Communicants in the Archdiocese are invited to take a special place in the procession wearing their formal clothes. Parking at the Church.

Free shuttle bus from Croy train station to the Church - email priest.stpatrickskilsyth@staned.org.uk or 01236 822136 to book. Details at https://archedinburgh.org/news-events/

Jubilee Year Picnic for Families

Join families from across the Archdiocese for a Jubilee Year picnic on Saturday 28 June, 11:00am – 4:00pm at The Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. There will be spiritual talks on the theme of Hope and talks and games for children. Includes Rosary at The Grotto and concludes with Holy Mass in St Margaret's Chapel. At 4:00pmthere is the chance to walk to the Jubilee Cross at St Mary's Cathedral (optional). Childcare provided. Register at bit.ly/archpicnic

Volunteers Needed: The Marriage & Families Commission is requesting volunteers to help at the picnic. Please contact Fr Benedict Iwatt at VEmarriage@staned.org.uk if you would like to volunteer. Thank you!

Faith Movement Summer Session for Young Adults at Ampleforth Abbey

The Faith Movement is back at Ampleforth Abbey this summer for our 49th annual summer session from 28 July - 1 August 2025. The theme of our five-day Catholic conference for young adults is Christ: Our Eucharist, Earth's Light and Jubilee. Spend a week in beautiful York with other young adults aged 16-30 exploring the faith with a variety of social, spiritual and catechetical activities. The focus of the week will be the series of talks, each building on one another to develop a coherent, dynamic vision of the faith. Each day there will be Mass, Morning and Night prayer and, on one of the evenings, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Confessions. There will also be plenty of time for recreation and socialising each night. Please register at www.faith.co.uk/events

‘Stories of Belief’ Exhibition in Edinburgh

As Edinburgh celebrates its 900th anniversary, take a journey through 900 years of faith and belief in an exciting audio-visual exhibition, sponsored by the Edinburgh Interfaith Association, on display in June and July in three locations throughout the city. The National Shrine of St. Andrew at St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral will be featured in the exhibition, with historical photos and copies of Vatican documents. The exhibit invites visitors to add their own stories, is free to enter and will be held 23rd June to 29th June – New College, University of Edinburgh EH1 2LX; 1st July-15th July – St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral EH12 5AW; 16th July – 23rd July –St James Quarter EH1 3AD. On the first date of each venue showing, the exhibition will open at midday, and on the last day of each venue showing, the exhibition will close at midday. More information at https://bit.ly/StoriesofBelief

August: Monastic Experience Weekend for Men at Pluscarden Abbey

The community of Benedictine monks at Pluscarden offer a special opportunity for men to experience what monastic life is all about Friday 22nd-Monday 25th August. This opportunity is suitable for single men who are Catholic, practise their faith, are aged 18-40, and at least open to the possibility of considering a monastic vocation. Participants will join the monks in their daily prayer and work. No charge for the weekend. Register at https://www.pluscardenabbey.org/monastic-experience-weekend

Save the Date

The Venerable Margaret Sinclair Pilgrimage Day is on Saturday 21 September 2025 at St Patricks in The Cowgate, Edinburgh. More details coming soon.

Carmelite Pilgrimage in October

The Carmelites in London are offering a 7-day pilgrimage to Spain ‘Walk in St. Teresa's Footsteps’ from 10th – 16th October 2025, led by Fr Matt Blake, OCD and Fr Kelvin Ekhoegbe, OCD. Join in this adventure with St Teresa in her transformative journey of the soul to God through prayer. Walk in her footsteps as she lived and taught. To book and to see full details visit https://www.carmelite.uk.net/pilgrimage/avila-retreat-pilgrimage-2025/

Read the newsletter for 15th June (pdf)

The Sixth Sunday of Easter – Year C

Archbishop Cushley and the Schola Cantorum

Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord on Thursday

The Church celebrates the return of the Risen Jesus into heaven, 40 days after His Resurrection, this Thursday, 29 May, the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord, which is a holy day of obligation.

Masses will be celebrated at the Cathedral at 8:00am, 10:00am (School Mass), 12:45pm and 7:30pm, and at St. Andrew’s, Ravelston at 6:00pm. Polish Masses at the Cathedral will be at 11:15am and 6:00pm.

Save the Date: Archbishop Leo's 40th Anniversary of Priesthood

Join us on Sunday, 20th July at Noon Mass celebrated by His Grace, Archbishop Leo Cushley, as we pray with him in thanksgiving for his 40th anniversary of priesthood, with a reception to follow in Coffee Saints. Please mark your diary for this special occasion as we celebrate the Lord's blessings in the priestly life and ministry of the shepherd of our Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh.

Thank You!

Dear Friends, on behalf of the Schola Cantorum singers, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported our trip to Rome this month. I know I speak for the others when I say that we were amazed and overwhelmed by the goodwill of our community in the lead up to the trip. We are grateful to so many of you for your sustained support of our fundraising campaign, and it is only through your generosity that we were able to make the venture a reality. I am delighted to tell you that the trip went very well. On 10 May we represented St Mary's Cathedral and the Archdiocese at the Scots College diaconate ordinations in the Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls, presided over by Archbishop Cushley (see photo above). The following day, we led the music for a special Mass of thanksgiving at the Church of Saints Dominic and Sixtus at the Angelicum University, celebrated by Bishop Toal and Archbishop Cushley. If you are interested in seeing some and a short film of our adventures, go to https://bit.ly/Schola2025

In the meantime, on behalf of the Schola Cantorum singers, and everyone involved in the music at St Mary's Cathedral, thank you for your remarkable encouragement of our musical life. It makes a huge difference. - Michael Ferguson, Director of Music

Minutes of Parish Council Meeting

The Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 13 May are available on the noticeboard in the Octagon and on the parish website: https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/parish-council-minutes The next meeting of the Parish Pastoral Council will be Tuesday, 11 June. Do you have ideas or suggestions for the parish? Please be in touch with the Parish Council at parishcouncil@stmaryscathedral.co.uk to share them. Thank you!

Young Adults Group Next Series: ‘Figures of My Faith’

Our Young Adults Group meets on Tuesday 27th May for our next talk in the series, ‘Figures of My Faith’ - talks by young adults focusing on influential figures in their faith journeys. Jonathan Hodges will speak about St. Thomas More. All those aged 18+ are welcome to join us at 63 York Place, 7:00pm for teas/coffees, with the talk at 7.30pm. Following Night Prayer, we have a chance to meet at a local pub.

Mass for Married & Engaged Couples on Tuesday

The annual Archdiocesan Mass for Married Couples (and those preparing for marriage) takes place at 7:15pm on Tuesday 27 May at St Mary's Cathedral. Archbishop Cushley will be the principal celebrant and will give a blessing to couples.

The Mass: A Window to Heaven

We have been having wonderful discussions about our faith as we watch Bishop Barron’s videos on the Mass together in our 6-week series. Come along Wednesday 28 May for our next meeting and take the opportunity to grow in your faith with us as we watch and discuss our next video “Preparing for Sacrifice,” with Fr. Robert leading the session. The sessions are open to all and a great way to learn more about the Mass, the celebration central to our faith. Join us in the rooms at St Andrew’s, Ravelston EH4 3DS following the Rosary after the 6:00pm Mass. Before Mass there will be our Wednesday 5:00pm Adoration & Confessions. Why not make some time to pray with Jesus in Adoration, before finding out more about the Mass? Watch the trailer at https://bit.ly/TheMass-Trailer. Refreshments will be served. To register, please email the office at cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Open Rehearsal of the 9am Sunday Choir on Wed 28th May

The 9am Sunday choir is looking for new members. If you are interested in joining this friendly group, or if you are simply curious about what goes on behind the scenes, you are warmly invited to an open rehearsal on Wednesday 28th May at 7:30pm in the Cathedral. Why not come along and give it a try!

Youth Group (P3-P7) Returns Next Sunday

The Youth Group (P3-P7) returns next Sunday, 1st June from 2:30pm-4:00pm, St. Andrew’s, Ravelston. Join us for fun activities and learn about our faith! Register at https://bit.ly/ParishYouthGroup. -Registration Fee: £1.00.

Iona of the East: A Parish Pilgrimage

Thanks to the more than 40 people who have registered so far for our Parish Pilgrimage to Inchcolm Abbey. Please register your place by Sunday, 15 June. We will visit the abbey on Inchcolm island, standing in the Firth of Forth, which has historical connections to the faith with St Columba reported to have visited in the 6th century, hence the name ‘Iona of the East.’ The abbey was established in the 13th century. The parish pilgrimage will travel to the island on Saturday 30th August on the 1030 sailing from South Queensferry. We will celebrate Mass in the abbey and have time for lunch as well as an exploration of the island, before returning to the mainland in the afternoon. Please make your own way to the pier for the ferry. Book at https://bit.ly/InchcolmPilgrimage25

Ticket prices include the return ferry ticket and admission to the island. Family ticket (including up to 3 children) is £65, adults £25, concessions £20 and additional children to the family ticket cost £5. Questions? Email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Marriage Preparation Courses

The next parish Marriage Preparation Courses are Saturday 31st May and Saturday, 23rd August, both at St Andrew’s, Ravelston (EH4 3DS). Please email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk to register.

St. Andrew’s Talk on Acts of the Apostles at Ravelston

Join us tomorrow, Monday, 26 May, for our St. Andrew’s Talk on the Acts of the Apostles by Fr. Andrew Garden, after the Rosary following 6:00pm Mass. Discussion to follow and refreshments available.

Tickets on Sale Today: Friday, 6 June Potluck Supper and Quiz at Ravelston

Tickets on sale £10 per person at Ravelston after Mass for a Potluck Supper and Quiz on Friday, 6 June, 7:00pm in the parish rooms at St. Andrew’s EH4 3DS to raise funds for our Parish project SCIAF (Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund). Come along to an enjoyable evening! Please bring your own bottle.

Holy Year Talks at Carmelite Convent

A series of Holy Year talks take place on the last Sunday of each month at 4:30pm at the Carmelite Convent, Hot Pot Wynd, Dysart, KY1 2TF. The one-hour event includes evening prayer, Eucharistic Adoration and has been organised by the Fife Deanery. All welcome. No registration required. Upcoming speakers and topics: Sunday 25 May: Pilgrimage, Deacon Pat Carrigan; Sunday 29 June: Sacred Heart – Dilexit Nos, Fr Syriac Palakudiyil; Sunday 27 July: Carmelite Spirituality, Fr Simon Hughes

Calling All RCIA Leaders! — Saturday Morning Workshop

All leaders of RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) are invited by the Catechetics Commission of the Archdiocese for a morning workshop. The day begins with Mass, includes a time of discussion and sharing, and ends with a brief consideration on mystagogy (post-baptismal instruction). It takes place on Saturday 31 May from 9:30am – 12:00pm beginning with 9:30am Mass at The Gillis Centre 100 Strathearn Road, EH9 1BB. Register at: https://bit.ly/RCIA-Leaders-morning

Corpus Christi Procession - Sunday 22 June

Archbishop Leo will lead the Archdiocesan Corpus Christi Procession from St Patrick’s Church in Kilsyth at 3:00pm on Sunday 22 June. This is a joyous occasion with the Blessed Sacrament being carried through the streets. First Holy Communicants in the Archdiocese are invited to take a special place in the procession wearing their formal clothes. Parking at the Church. Contact St Patrick's at priest.stpatrickskilsyth@staned.org.uk or 01236 822136 to reserve disabled/minibus parking or to book a space on the free shuttle buses from Croy train station to the Church.

Jubilee Year Picnic for Families

Join families from across the Archdiocese for a Jubilee Year picnic on Saturday 28 June, 11:00am – 4:00pm at The Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. There will be spiritual talks on the theme of Hope and talks and games for children. Includes Rosary at The Grotto and concludes with Holy Mass in St Margaret's Chapel. At 4:00pmthere is the chance to walk to the Jubilee Cross at St Mary's Cathedral (optional). Childcare provided. Register at bit.ly/archpicnic

Lourdes 2025: Spaces Available for Supported Pilgrims

A small number of spaces have become available for supported pilgrims on the Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes (11 to 18 July 2025). Do you know someone who is ill or infirm and would enjoy the opportunity to experience this life-changing trip? Assisted Pilgrims receive 24hr support from the brilliant doctors, nurses and volunteers in the Medical/Helper Team and stay in specially equipped accommodation. It is an unforgettable week with a full spiritual and social programme. Contact Bernadette on 0131 441 1939 or visit www.edinburgh-lourdes.com

Second Collection Next Weekend: Communications Sunday

World Communications Day is on Sunday 1 June and a collection will take place that weekend for the apostolate of communications. Bishop Frank Dougan, of Galloway Diocese, is setting up a National Office for Communication and Evangelisation, and your financial support will help the office produce quality content across various media platforms to spread the Good News.

Read the newsletter for 25th May (pdf)

Fifth Sunday of Easter – Year C

Prayers for Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo XIV presides over the Mass of Inauguration of his Petrine Ministry in St Peter’s Square at 9:00am (UK) this Sunday morning. We all join in prayer that the Lord will give him the grace to be a true shepherd to us and an authentic witness to Christ in the world.

Cathedral Roof Appeal

Our beautiful Cathedral is facing a considerable challenge. Substantial works are urgently required to repair leaking roofs in the short term and to bring the buildings up to good condition over the next five years. If you are able to help with any donation to the roof appeal, large or small, we will be most grateful. Visit bit.ly/RoofAppeal25 and remember to Gift Aid it if you are a UK taxpayer. With many thanks and every blessing.

Young Adults Group Next Series: ‘Figures of My Faith’

Our Young Adults Group meets on Tuesday 20th May for our next talk in the series, ‘Figures of My Faith’ - talks by young adults focusing on influential figures in their faith journeys. David Wilson will speak about St. Oscar Romero. All those aged 18+ are welcome to the weekly meetings. As usual, we meet at 63 York Place at 7:00pm for teas/coffees and for the talk at 7.30pm. Each session concludes with Night Prayer and the chance to meet up at a local pub.

The Mass: A Window to Heaven

Join us Wednesday 21 May at Ravelston for our next meeting in our weekly series of viewing Bishop Barron’s videos on the Mass followed by discussion. This week’s video is “Responding to God.” The Religious Sisters of Mercy will lead the session, which is open to all and a great way to learn more about the celebration central to our faith. We will meet in the rooms at St Andrew’s, Ravelston EH4 3DS following the Rosary after the 6:00pm Mass. Before Mass there will be our Wednesday 5:00pm Adoration & Confessions. Why not make some time to pray with Jesus in Adoration, before finding out more about the Mass? Watch the trailer at https://bit.ly/TheMass-Trailer. Refreshments will be served. To register, please email the office at cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Catenians Meeting for Catholic Men

The Catenian Association invites all Catholic men to their regular meeting on Wednesday, 21 May, at 7.00 p.m. in 63 York Place The Catenians are an international body of Catholic laymen who meet once a month and offer friendship and support to Catholic men and their families at all stages of their lives. For information 01555 728032 or look on https://thecatenians.com/become-a-member/

Holy Hour & Reflection

7:00pm Thursday: ‘The Theme of Hope in the Rosary’

This Thursday, 22nd May at 7:00pm join us for our concluding Marian Holy Hour in the Cathedral with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, praying of the Rosary and a reflection on Our Lady. Deacon Peter will speak on ‘The Theme of Hope in the Rosary’. Come and spend some time in prayer before Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. All are invited to join us!

Calling all Singers: Open Rehearsal of the 9am Sunday Choir on Wednesday, 28th May

The 9am Sunday choir is looking for new members. If you are interested in joining this friendly group, or if you are simply curious about what goes on behind the scenes, you are warmly invited to an open rehearsal on Wednesday 28th May at 7:30pm in the Cathedral. Why not come along and give it a try!

Children's Summer Course for Sacramental Preparation

If you are living within the boundaries of the Cathedral and St. Andrew’s, Ravelston Parish and have children of school age in need of sacramental preparation and who have either not been baptised or are not in Catholic schools and have therefore missed preparation to receive the sacraments of Reconciliation or Holy Communion/Confirmation, please contact cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk. Depending on the level of interest, we may be able to offer a summer course on Saturday afternoons for children in need of sacramental preparation. If you have questions, please let us know.

Mass for Married & Engaged Couples

The annual Archdiocesan Mass for Married Couples (and those preparing for marriage) takes place at 7:15pm on Tuesday 27 May at St Mary's Cathedral. Archbishop Cushley will be the principal celebrant and will give a blessing to couples.

Iona of the East: A Parish Pilgrimage

You don’t have to travel great distances to go on pilgrimage, especially when so many places with great history in the faith exist on your doorstep. Inchcolm island, standing in the Firth of Forth, has historical connections to the faith with St Columba reported to have visited in the 6th century, hence the name. The abbey was established in the 13th century and now it serves as a peaceful place of pilgrimage. The parish pilgrimage will travel to the island on Saturday 30th August on the 1030 sailing from South Queensferry. We will celebrate Mass in the abbey and have time for lunch as well as an exploration of the island, before returning to the mainland in the afternoon. Please plan to make your own way to the pier for the ferry. Book your place by visiting https://bit.ly/InchcolmPilgrimage25. Ticket prices include the return ferry ticket and admission to the island. Family ticket (including up to 3 children) is £65, adults £25, concessions £20 and additional children cost £5. Questions? Email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk

Marriage Preparation Courses

The next parish Marriage Preparation Courses are Saturday 31st May and Saturday, 23rd August, both at St Andrew’s, Ravelston (EH4 3DS). Please email cathedralhouse@stmaryscathedral.co.uk to register.

Save the Date: Festival Mass

Sunday, 10 August: His Grace, Archbishop Cushley, will celebrate the annual Festival Mass at Noon at the Cathedral. Join us for this beautiful celebration of our Sunday Liturgy at the start of the week of our Cathedral’s patronal feast (the Assumption) on 15th August in the season of Edinburgh’s International Festival.

‘Lives Worth Living’: Talk on Assisted Suicide Bills

In these days following the passing of the initial vote at the Scottish Parliament for the bill to legalise doctor-assisted suicide, please join us for a talk ‘Lives Worth Living’ tomorrow, Monday 19th May, from 6:30pm, at the parish rooms of St Andrew's, Ravelston, with Margaret Akers of the Society for Protection of Unborn Children. She will speak about the two assisted suicide bills currently going through the Westminster and Holyrood Parliaments. Both bills are very much live, and both can very much be defeated, if we take this opportunity to do something about them. Please do attend to hear what you can do to prevent assisted suicide becoming law. For more information, please contact williamcurrie@spuc.org.uk

Ravelston Holy Rosary in May

Thanks to so many who have been joining us for our Holy Rosary prayed immediately after each 6pm Mass in St Andrews church Monday to Friday – everyone is invited to join this powerful family prayer. In this Jubilee Year of Hope, those who do not know the Rosary or have not prayed the Rosary for a long time are especially welcome! Rosary beads will be provided if needed. Please sign up at the back of church if you would like to help lead the praying of the Rosary.

Save the Date: Friday, 6 June Potluck Supper and Quiz at Ravelston

To raise funds for the Ravelston Parish project SCIAF (Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund), come along to an enjoyable and social evening of a potluck supper and quiz! Tickets will be on sale soon. Please speak to Fergus or Marie for advance tickets. Tickets will be £10 per person. Please bring your own bottle.

Calling All RCIA Leaders! — Saturday Morning Workshop

All RCIA leaders are invited by the Catechetics Commission of the Archdiocese for a morning workshop. The day begins with Mass, includes a time of discussion and sharing, and ends with a brief consideration on mystagogy (post-baptismal instruction). It takes place on Saturday 31 May from 9:30am – 12:00pm beginning with 9:30am Mass at The Gillis Centre 100 Strathearn Road, EH9 1BB. Register at: https://bit.ly/RCIA-Leaders-morning

St Margaret's Pilgrimage - Sunday 8 June

All are welcome at the annual St Margaret's Pilgrimage in Dunfermline on Sunday 8 June. Join Archbishop Leo, clergy and people from across Scotland for the procession through the town centre with the relic of St Margaret at 2:00pm, followed by Holy Mass at 3:00pm in St Margaret's Church. Full schedule in the news-events section at archedinburgh.org

Corpus Christi Procession - Sunday 22 June

Archbishop Leo will lead the Archdiocesan Corpus Christi Procession from St Patrick’s Church in Kilsyth at 3:00pm on Sunday 22 June. This is a joyous occasion with the Blessed Sacrament being carried through the streets. First Holy Communicants in the Archdiocese are invited to take a special place in the procession wearing their formal clothes. Parking available at the Church. Contact St Patrick's to reserve disabled/minibus parking or to book a space on the free shuttle buses from Croy train station to the Church. priest.stpatrickskilsyth@staned.org.uk or 01236 822136.

Save the Date: Jubilee Year Picnic for Families

Join families from across the Archdiocese for a Jubilee Year picnic on Saturday 28 June, 11:00am – 4:00pm at The Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. There will be spiritual talks on the theme of Hope and talks and games for children. Includes Rosary at The Grotto and concludes with Holy Mass in St Margaret's Chapel. At 4:00pm there is the chance to walk to the Jubilee Cross at St Mary's Cathedral (optional). Childcare provided.

5-Day Summer Session for Young Adults: ‘Christ: Our Eucharist’

The Faith Movement is back at Ampleforth Abbey this summer for our 49th annual summer session from 28 July - 1 August 2025. The theme of our five-day Catholic conference for young adults is ‘Christ: Our Eucharist, Earth's Light and Jubilee’. Spend a week in beautiful York with other young adults aged 16-30 exploring the faith with a variety of social, spiritual and catechetical activities. The focus of the week will be the series of talks, each building on one another to develop a coherent, dynamic vision of the faith. Each day there will be Mass, Morning and Night prayer and, on one of the evenings, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Confessions. There will also be plenty of time for recreation and socialising each night. If you are interested in attending please register at www.faith.co.uk/events

Host an International Secondary School Student

MyEducation (UK) Ltd coordinates international high school exchange programmes and has a group of students arriving in Edinburgh this September who will be attending Leith Academy. Many of them are practising Catholics. All of the students will be aged 16 or 17 and going into S5 at secondary school. If you might be interested in hosting, please see the flyer posted in the Octagon or contact 02380 970924 or info@myeducationuk.co.uk. Visit https://myeducationuk.co.uk/host-a-student/ for more information.

August: Monastic Experience Weekend for Men at Pluscarden Abbey

The community of Benedictine monks at Pluscarden offer a special opportunity for men to experience what monastic life is all about Friday 22nd-Monday 25th August. This opportunity is suitable for single men who are Catholic, practise their faith, are aged 18-40, and at least open to the possibility of considering a monastic vocation. Participants will join the monks in their daily prayer and work, and will be offered a close-up insight into some of the treasures of the monastic tradition. The event may be of assistance in the process of discerning one's vocation in life. There will be no charge for the weekend. Register at https://www.pluscardenabbey.org/monastic-experience-weekend

Donegal County Council Seeks Stories of Working Life in Scotland

Are you or a family member from Donegal County, Ireland, and spent time working in Scotland between 1940 and 1990? If so, Donegal County Council wants to hear from you for a new public exhibition entitled ‘Working Over By’ to include personal stories on video of Donegal men and women’s working experiences in Scotland in the Donegal County Museum, High Road, Letterkenny in June. Record a short video of yourself or family member on a smartphone (5 minutes maximum) sharing experiences of the work, working conditions, and being among Donegal people who worked in Scotland. One participant will win a return flight for two between Donegal and Glasgow. Be sure to have the consent of the person being interviewed. Send the footage by WhatsApp to 00 353 87 360 3463 with your name and contact details. Closing date for entries is Friday, May 30. For more information contact donegalscotland@donegalcoco.ie or visit https://bit.ly/WorkingLifeinScotland

Rosary in a Year Podcast

Be transformed by daily prayer with the Rosary in a Year Podcast with Fr. Mark-Mary Ames. You can discover how to deepen your focus and enter into the mysteries of the Rosary and build a meaningful habit of daily prayer. Each of the daily episodes is about 10-15 minutes. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the power of this Marian devotion! Listen at https://bit.ly/RosaryinaYear

Read the newsletter for 16 May (pdf)