The Church of St. Augustine is a friendly and welcoming church, committed to proclaiming Jesus Christ as Lord; our faith and worship are in the Anglo–Catholic tradition, under the pastoral and sacramental care of the Bishop of Richmond. The central act of worship is the Mass, wherein we proclaim and celebrate all that God has done for us in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Our worship is conducted with reverence and dignity, and we are blessed in having an excellent musical tradition.
Liturgy, Solemnities and Feasts - FEBRUARY 2023
The Liturgy for Sunday 26th February 2023
FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT
Man does Not Live on Bread Alone
Although he was God, Jesus was tempted just as we are. His steadfastness in time of trial teaches us that the passing attraction of sinful pleasures is as nothing compared with God's promised rewards for those who are faithful to him.
The Readings:
Genesis 2:7-9.3:1-7
Romans 5:12-19
Gospel: Mathew 4:1-11
Collect:
Grant, almighty God,
through the yearly observances
of holy Lent, that we may grow in understanding of the riches hidden in Christ and by worthy conduct pursue their effects
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
The Liturgy for 22nd February 2023
ASH WEDNESDAY
Come Back to me with All Your Heart
Receiving ashes is a sign that we acknowledge our status as creatures and we are willing to repent - a necessary prelude to conversion of heart and openness to the Good News. Prayer and fasting are the means of our Lenten conversion to God.
The Readings:
Joel 2:12-18
2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2
Gospel: Mathew 6:1-6.16-18
The Imposition of ashes takes place after the Homily, and replaces the Penitential rite.
Collect:
Grant, O Lord, that we may
begin with holy fasting this campaign
of Christian service, so that, as we take up battle against spiritual evils, we may be armed with weapons of self-restraint.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
The Liturgy for Sunday 19th February 2023
SEVENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
You must be Perfect
It is hard enough to forgive and forget, but Jesus asks us to go one step further: we must love those who do us wrong. If we strive for such perfection God will favour us with his compassion and love.
The Readings:
Leviticus 19:1-2.17-18
1 Corinthians 3:16-23
Gospel: Mathew 5:38-48
Collect:
Grant, we pray, almighty God,
that, always pondering spiritual things,
we may carry out in both word and deed
that which is pleasing to you.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
The Liturgy for Sunday 12th February 2023
SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
They are Happy who Follow God's Law
Laws usually tell you what you must not do. But God's law is different; it is a charter for freedom and the path to life in its fulness.
The Readings:
Ecclesiasticus 15:15-20
1 Corinthians 2:6-10
Gospel: Mathew 5:17-37
Collect:
O God, who teach us that you abide
in hearts that are just and true, grant that
we may be so fashioned by your grace
as to become a dwelling pleasing to you.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
The Liturgy for Sunday 5th February 2023
FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
You Are the Light of the World
Our lives must show our faith. Only if we are seen to care for the hungry, the poor and the helpless will we be lights to lead others to praise God.
The Readings:
Isaiah 58:7-10
1 Corinthians 2:1-5
Gospel: Mathew 5:13-16
Collect:
Keep your family safe, O Lord,
with unfailing care, that, relying solely
on the hope of heavenly grace, they may be defended always by your protection.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
