Brentwood Cathedral

29/08/2026

Following Christ is not always the easiest path. Sometimes, doing God’s will asks us to let go of our own plans, face difficulty and trust Him when the way ahead feels costly. ✝️

In this Sunday’s Spiritual Reflection, Jesus reminds His disciples that following Him means being willing to “take up his cross and follow me”. But we do not carry that cross alone. God gives us the grace and strength to remain faithful, even when following Him asks more of us.

As St Ignatius Loyola prayed: “Teach us, good Lord, to serve you as you deserve; to give and not to count the cost.”

Read Fr John's full reflection on our website:

🔗 https://brentwoodcathedral.org.uk/spiritual-reflection-the-twenty-second-sunday-in-ordinary-time-a/

22/08/2026

“Who do you say I am?”

In today’s Gospel, Jesus asks a question that lies at the very heart of our faith. Peter’s answer, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God,” reminds us that faith is not simply about what we know, but about our own personal relationship with Christ.

How would we answer that question today? 🙏

Read Fr John's full spiritual reflection on our website to discover more:

In today's Gospel (Matthew 16:13–20), Jesus asks the most important question any of us will ever face: "Who do you say I am?"

15/08/2026

As we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption, we are reminded of the hope that lies at the heart of our faith. 🙏

Mary’s Assumption into heaven is a sign that death does not have the final word, and an invitation to lift our eyes beyond the concerns of today and remember that we are all pilgrims on a journey to heaven.

May Mary help us to live with hope, persevere in faith and keep our hearts fixed on Christ.

🔗 Read Fr John's full reflection on the Cathedral website: https://brentwoodcathedral.org.uk/spiritual-reflection-the-assumption-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary-a/

08/08/2026

There are times when life can feel like we're battling against the wind and waves, facing uncertainty, worry or challenges that seem too much to bear.

Fr John's Spiritual Reflection this week reminds us that even in the midst of life's storms, Jesus is never far away. Like Peter, it's easy to become distracted by the waves around us, but when we keep our eyes fixed on Christ, we find the strength to carry on. And even when our faith falters, His hand is always there to lift us up. 🙏

Take a few moments to read this week's reflection and discover this reassuring message of hope and courage. Read the full article via the link below:

🔗 https://brentwoodcathedral.org.uk/spiritual-reflection-the-nineteenth-sunday-in-ordinary-time-a/

07/08/2026

We will be celebrating Ukrainian Independence Day at Brentwood Cathedral on Sunday 23 August at 4pm with a special service, featuring Ukrainian church music as well as familiar English hymns. We will be joined by the Mayor of Brentwood.
Afterwards, there will be refreshments and entertainment in the Parish Hall provided by members of the local Ukrainian community to which everyone is warmly invited.

25/07/2026

Best wishes to Quinlan Terry, architect of our fabulous neo-classical Cathedral, who celebrates his 89th birthday.

04/07/2026

Where do you find rest when life feels heavy? Fr John's latest spiritual reflection reminds us of Jesus' invitation:

"Come to me... and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)

In the midst of busy lives, prayer offers a place of peace and comfort. Even when God's presence feels distant, He is never far away. Take a few moments to read today's full reflection on our website and discover how time spent with God can bring rest to the soul.

🔗 https://brentwoodcathedral.org.uk/spiritual-reflection-the-fourteenth-sunday-in-ordinary-time-a/

27/06/2026

Today we celebrate Saints Peter and Paul: two great apostles whose lives were transformed by the gift of knowing Christ.

In the Gospel, Peter’s declaration that Jesus is the Christ came not from human understanding alone, but through the grace of revelation from the Father. St Paul too spoke of receiving the Gospel through the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Their lives remind us that faith is a gift that draws us deeper into the mystery of God’s love.

🔗 Read Fr John's full reflection for the Feast of SS Peter & Paul on our website: https://brentwoodcathedral.org.uk/spiritual-reflection-saint-peter-and-saint-paul/

25/06/2026

Our next collection for the Brentwood Food Bank will take place on the weekend of 11/12 July.
Their priority shopping list for July is already out so why not stock up on these items to donate in two weeks time?

20/06/2026

"Do not be afraid." ✝️ These words appear throughout Scripture and were a constant refrain of St John Paul II. Yet for many Christians around the world today, living out their faith still requires great courage.

In this week's reflection, we consider the witness of modern-day martyrs and the powerful example they set for all believers. Their stories remind us that faith is not about fear, but about hope, love and the quiet courage to stand firm in what we believe.

As Pope Francis reflected, the witness of those who have given their lives for Christ continues to inspire unity, faith and brotherhood among Christians across the world.

🔗 Read Fr John's full reflection on our website: https://brentwoodcathedral.org.uk/spiritual-reflection-twelfth-sunday-in-ordinary-time-a/