News – The Church of the Holy Ghost Genoa, Italy

26th March, 2023

Anyone who wants to think further about the questions raised in today’s sermon (available here), is invited to visit the OBB web-page and enter “John 11:1-45” to find the text of today’s gospel as a help to reflection.
Warmest thanks to everyone who helped in any way with yesterday’s “Tea and Books”. The church raised a total of €1385 for church funds. Special thanks to those who baked, those who made jams and chutneys, those who served, those who set out tables and cleaned up afterwards – and to those who put the whole event together.
On Tuesday at 18:00 the last of the current series of ecumenical Bible Studies takes place at the Baptist Church in Via Vernazza. This final study begins with the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19.
The last of this year’s Lent talks takes place on Wednesday at 12:00. The series ends with a reflection on Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s poem “Stations on the Road to Freedom”.
There will be a Eucharist at 12:30 on Wednesday as usual.
On Friday the church will be open for private prayer and meditation between 12:30 and 17:30. All are welcome to come when they can for as long a time as they can spare.
This is the time of year when the church revises its electoral roll. Anyone who is over 16 years of age, baptised, and thinks of Holy Ghost as “their church”, ought to have their name on the roll. If it isn’t they should take a form from the church, fill it in, and return it to the Electoral Roll Officer, to one of the Churchwardens or to the Chaplain, or leave it in the church’s mailbox in Via Goito. The deadline is Saturday 15^th April.
Next Sunday is Palm Sunday. The Eucharist will begin with a Procession of Palms in the Church grounds.

19th March, 2023

Tomorrow (a day late because Sundays in Lent take precedence over everything else) the Church commemorates St Joseph of Nazareth, the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary. There will be a Eucharist at 12:30.
On Tuesday at 18:00 the next of the ecumenical Bible Studies takes place at the Baptist Church in Via Vernazza. The topic is St Luke’s account of Jesus’ journey from Galilee to Jerusalem.
The fourth of this year’s Lent talks takes place on Wednesday at 12:00. This week the topic is Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s poem “Christians and Pagans”.
There will be a Eucharist at 12:30 on Wednesday as usual.
The usual reminder that on Fridays during Lent the church is open for private prayer and meditation between 12:30 and 17:30. All are welcome to come when they can for as long as they can spare.
Saturday is a busy day. It is the Feast of the Annunciation, which is a very important day in the Church’s year because it marks the beginning of God entry into his world in a human life. As has been said, “the countdown to Christmas starts here!” There will be a Eucharist at 12:30. That will be followed by a “Tea and Books” event from 15:00 to 18:00. Preparation for this, moving furniture and setting up tables, begins at 11:00. Some offers of help have been received, but more are needed. After a break for the Eucharist, books will be sorted from 13:15. Again there have been one or two offers of help, but more are needed, as are offers of help setting up the tea tables from 14:00. Help is also needed on the stalls from 15:00 to 18:00 and with clearing up afterward, ready for next Sunday’s Eucharist. Anyone who can help with any of this, is asked to contact Ruth McGroary or the chaplain.
A final reminder that donations of books to sell on Saturday are NOT needed. However Ruth McGroary would be glad of offers of contributions of cakes for the tea. Anyone who is planning to bake goodies to serve with the teas, is asked to contact her or the chaplain.
This is the time of year when the church’s electoral roll is revised. Anyone who is over 16 years of age, baptised, and thinks of Holy Ghost as “their church”, ought to have their name on the roll. Those whose name is not on the roll are asked to download a form, fill it in, and return it to Hanako, our Electoral Roll Officer, or to the chaplain, or drop it into the church’s mailbox, before 15^th April. Those on the Roll are entitled to vote at the Annual Church Meeting at the end of April, which includes voting for members of the Church Council and Archdeaconry Synod.
The clocks go forward an hour next Sunday. Anyone who fails to reset their alarm that morning is in danger of arriving at church as everyone else is leaving!

12th March, 2023

The third of this year’s Lent talks takes place on Wednesday at 12:00. This week we are looking at the letter which Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote from prison in Berlin to his friend Eberhard Bethge on the day after the failure of the plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler in July 1944.
There will be a Eucharist at 12:30 on Wednesday as usual.
On Fridays during Lent the church is open for private prayer and meditation between 12:30 and 17:30. All are welcome. Come when you can for as long as you can spare.
Looking ahead:
- Next Sunday is 4^th Sunday in Lent, also known as Refreshment Sunday or Mothering Sunday. There will be a presentation of posies to the women in church that day.
- On Monday 20^th March (a day late because Sundays in Lent take precedence over everything else) we shall commemorate St Joseph of Nazareth, the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary. There will be a Eucharist at 12:30.
- On Tuesday 21^st March, at 18:00, the next of the ecumenical Bible Studies takes place at the Baptist Church in Via Vernazza. We will be drawing near to the end of Jesus’ journey from Galilee to Jerusalem as it is described by St Luke.
- The following Saturday,25^th March, we keep the Feast of the Annunciation, which is Mary’s big day. There will again be a Eucharist at 12:30 and that will be followed by a “Tea and Books” event from 15:00 to 18:00. Please note that we do NOT need any donations of books to sell. But Ruth McGroary would be glad of offers of contributions of cakes for the tea.
This is the time of year when we revise our electoral roll. If you are over 16 years of age, baptised, and think of Holy Ghost as “your church”, your name ought to be on the roll. If it isn’t please take a form, fill it in, and return it to our Electoral Roll Officer Hanako Tsushima Semini, or to the chaplain, by 15th April. You will then be able to vote at the Annual Church Meeting at the end of April, which includes voting for members of the Church Council and Archdeaconry Synod.
Canon Tony Dickinson’s current licence as chaplain expires in mid-April. The Church Council has asked Bishop David to extend that licence for a further year (with the agreement of Canon Dickinson and his family). Bishop David has agreed and relicensed Canon Dickinson until the end of April 2024.

5th March, 2023

The second of this year’s Lent Lectures takes place on Wednesday at 12:00. This week we are looking at Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s poem, “Who am I?” which he wrote in prison while under interrogation by the Gestapo in Nazi Germany nearly 80 years ago.
At the Eucharist on Wednesday we shall remember Edward King, pastor, scholar, persecuted Bishop of Lincoln.
On Fridays during Lentthe church is open for private prayer and meditation between 12:30 and 17:30. All are welcome to come when they can for as long as they can spare.
Next week-end the Chiesa Valdese in Via Assarotti is hosting a display about the story of the Church. It will be open on Saturday morning from 10:30 to 12:30 and in the afternoon from 15:00 to 17:00.
Jeffrey Aluefua’s mother Cecilia died yesterday. Please surround the family with your prayers during the coming days.
Looking some way ahead: on Saturday 25^th March we keep the Feast of the Annunciation. There will be a Eucharist at 12:30 and a “Tea and Books” event from 15:00 to 18:00. Please note: we do NOT need any donations of books to sell. But Ruth McGroary would be glad of offers of contributions of cakes for the tea.

2nd March, 2023

Please note the following change in venue for the Stations of the Cross on Friday 3rd March. They will now take place at 20:30 in the church of Santa Zita in Corso Buenos Aires.

26th February, 2023

At 18:00 on Tuesday, at the Chiesa Evangelica Battista in Via Vernazza, the Ecumenical Bible Study group will again be looking at the closing section of St Luke’s account of Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem. This week the group is looking at chapter 17. It is the last session before a two-week break. There will be two more sessions in mid-March.
On Wednesday at 12:00 we have the first of this year’s Lent Lectures. This year we are looking at the last two years in the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the pastor and writer who suffered martyrdom under the Nazi regime in Germany nearly 80 years ago. This week’s talk is called “Bonhoeffer’s Way of the Cross”.
At the Eucharist on Wednesday we shall remember St David, patron of Wales – and the only British patron saint to have been born in the country of which he is patron.
On Fridays during Lent the church is open for private prayer and meditation between 12:30 and 17:30. All are welcome to come when they can for as long as they can spare.
This Friday is the World Day of Prayer, sometimes known as the “Women’s World Day of Prayer”. As well as this church being open for private prayer and meditation, there will be a special service at the Sala Lutero in Via Assarotti (next to the Chiesa Valdese) at 18:00. It will be based on material prepared this year by women from Taiwan.
Later on Friday evening ~~in Piazza della Vittoria (on the side away from the railway station and Via Cadorno)~~ there will be an opportunity to share in “Stations of the Cross”, prayers, reflections and music focused on Jesus’ journey to crucifixion. The service begins at 20:30. This is an event organised by the Catholic archdiocese, but Christians of all traditions will be welcome.
Saturday is the Children’s World Day of Prayer. At 15:30 there will be an afternoon of games, songs, and prayers for children of first school (scuola elementare) age at the Istituto Don Bosco di Sampierdarena, in Via San Giovanni Bosco (5-10 minutes’ walk from Sampierdarena railway station). The afternoon will be led by Pastora Ulrike Jourdan from the Chiesa Valdese in Sampierdarena and by Don Tommaso Danovaro from the Catholic Archdiocese.
Looking some way ahead: on Saturday25^th March we keep the Feast of the Annunciation. There will be a Eucharist at 12:30 and Tea and Books from 15:00 to 18:00. Please note: we do NOT need any donations of books to sell.
John Obues is looking for people to share in the work of cleaning the church on a Saturday. Anyone who is interested in joining the team (there is a small remuneration), is asked to contact him, either direct or through info[at]anglicanchurchgenoa.com.

22nd February, 2023

We have just received news of a retreat being run by the Church of the Ascension at Cadenabbia later in the year. Details can be found here.

19th February, 2023

From today, refreshments at the end of the Sunday Eucharist are once again part of our regular church life. However, in order to maintain this we need people who are willing to take on the responsibility of providing an aperitivo on a more or less regular basis. Anyone who is willing to enhance our church life in this way, or who would like to know more, is asked to contact one of the Wardens.

“Sharing the Bible”: the Ecumenical Bible Study group will hold the first of four sessions looking at the closing section of St Luke’s account of Jesus’ journey up to Jerusalem (Chapters 16-19) at 18:00 on Tuesday, at the Chiesa Evangelica Battista in Via Vernazza. There will be two sessions this month, then a break, then two more in March.
Wednesday is Ash Wednesday. The 12:30 Eucharist will include the imposition of ashes for those who wish to mark the beginning of Lent in this way. Thank you to those who have brought their palm crosses to be turned into ash for this year’s ceremony.
On Wednesdays during Lent, beginning on 1^st March (so not this Wednesday), there will be a Lent Lecture at 12:00. This year’s topic will be the Way of the Cross in the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the pastor and writer who suffered martyrdom under the Nazi regime in Germany nearly 80 years ago.
On Fridays during Lent(beginning this Friday) the church will be open for private prayer and meditation from 12:30 until 17:30. All are welcome. Come when you can for as long as you can spare.
Next Sunday is the first Sunday in Lent. There will, as usual, be a Eucharist at 10:30.
Friday, 3^rdMarch is the World Day of Prayer, sometimes known as the “Women’s World Day of Prayer”. This church will be open, as on every Friday in Lent, for private prayer and meditation from 12:30 until 17:30. At 18:00 there will be a special service at the Sala Lutero in Via Assarotti (next to the Chiesa Valdese). It will be based on material prepared this year by women from Taiwan
Saturday, 4^th March is the Children’s World Day of Prayer. At 15:30 there will be an afternoon of games, songs, and prayers for children of first school (scuola elementare) age at the Istituto Don Bosco di Sampierdarena, in Via San Giovanni Bosco – 5-10 minutes’ walk from Sampierdarena railway station. The afternoon will be led by Pastora Ulrike Jourdan from the Chiesa Valdese in Sampierdarena and by Don Tommaso Danovaro from the Catholic Archdiocese.
Looking some way ahead: on Saturday25^th March we keep the Feast of the Annunciation, one of the major celebrations of the Church’s year. There will be a Eucharist at 12:30 and a Book Fair from 15:00 to 18:00. Please note: we do NOT need any donations of books to sell.

12th February, 2023

EARTHQUAKE EMERGENCY: anyone who has been moved to respond to the enormous need may like to know that the Federation of Evangelical (i.e. Protestant) Churches in Italy (FCEI) is committed to helping the population and has launched a subscription to raise funds for humanitarian assistance. We encourage you to participate and to spread this initiative.
- To donate:
- Pay to “Earthquake subscription Turkey – Syria – Lebanon”
- C/C addressed to Federation of Evangelical Churches in Italy
- Unicredit Bank – Via Vittorio Emanuele Orlando, 70, 00185 Rome
- IBAN: IT26X0200805203000104203419
The monthly Taizé Prayer takes place tonight at 21:00 in San Marco al Molo.
At the Eucharist on Wednesday, we remember two mission-minded men, the Anglo-Saxon monk Sigfrid, and the 17th-century English priest, Thomas Bray. Find out more about them at the 12:30 Eucharist.
Next Sunday is the Sunday next before Lent. The Eucharist will include thanksgiving for the birth of a child.
“Sharing the Bible” the Ecumenical Bible Study group will begin its final round of studies on St Luke’s account of Jesus’ journey up to Jerusalem (Chapters 16-19) on Tuesday, 21^st February at 18:00 at the Chiesa Evangelica Battista in Via Vernazza. There will be two this month, then a break, then two more in March.
Wednesday 22^nd February is Ash Wednesday. The12:30 Eucharist that day will include the signing of those who wish with a cross of ashes. Traditionally the ash is made by burning old palm crosses. If you have any please bring them to church by next Sunday.

On Wednesdays during Lent, beginning on 1^st March, there will be a Lent Lecture at 12:00. This year’s topic will be the Way of the Cross in the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who suffered martyrdom under the Nazi regime in Germany nearly 80 years ago.
On Fridays during Lent the church will be open for private prayer and meditation from 12:30 until 5:30.
Saturday, 4^th March is the World Day of Prayer for Children. At Don Bosco di Sampierdarena there will be an ecumenical afternoon of games, singing and prayer for children of first school age (scuola elementare). It begins at 15:30. Details below (5th February). The afternoon will be led by Pastora Ulrike Jourdan from the Chiesa Valdese in Sampierdarena and by Don Tommaso Danovaro.

5th February, 2023

There will be the usual midweek Eucharist on Wednesday at 12:30.
Next Sunday, we continue our countdown to Lent with the Eucharist at 10:30. This will be followed by a meeting of the Church Council.
Lent begins on Wednesday 22^nd February, Ash Wednesday, the Eucharist at 12:30 will include the signing of those who wish with a cross of ashes. Traditionally the ash for the ceremony is made by burning old palm crosses. Anyone with crosses from past years is asked to bring them to church by Sunday 19^th February.
On Wednesdays during Lent, beginning from 1^st March, there will be a Lent Lecture at 12:00. This year’s theme will be the “Way of the Cross in the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer”, who suffered martyrdom under the Nazi regime in Germany nearly 80 years ago.
On Fridays during Lent the church will be open for private prayer and meditation from 12:30 until 5:30.

29th January, 2023

It was good to be able to welcome worshippers to a church rather warmer than it has been in recent weeks – and to invite them to share after the service in a festive aperitivo to mark the end of Christmastide.

We have received greetings from Paddy Holmes and from James Strachan and his mother, Juliet.
There will be a midweek Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. on Wednesday at which we shall remember an early Irish saint, Brigid, who was abbess of Kildare fifteen centuries ago.
Next Sunday we begin the countdown towards Lent, and beyond that, Easter. We will also be thanking God for the birth, last year, of Sarah and Jeffrey’s second daughter, Lois, a baby sister for Brenda.

22nd January, 2023

We have received New Year greetings from Fr David Emmott in England, from Elizabeth and Barbara on behalf of the congregation in Bordighera, and from Bishop Alan Wilson of Buckingham who spent a day here in Genova last week.
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity continues until Wednesday. The remaining events are
- a discussion between Pastor Michel Charbonnier and journalist Luigi Sandri on the very topical theme: “How will peace be achieved?” at 6.00 p.m. on Tuesday in Sala Quadrivium;
- an evening of dialogue and prayer set up and run by young people on Wednesday at 8.30 p.m. in Sta Maria delle Vigne.
Wednesday is the last day of the week of Prayer. It is also the day when we remember the Conversion of St Paul. There will be a Eucharist at 12.30 p.m.
The church will be open this week on Tuesday and Wednesday at 5.00 p.m. for anyone wishing to join in prayer for unity
Next Sunday marks the end of Christmastide as we celebrate the Presentation of Christ in the temple, when he was acclaimed by the old man Simeon as “a light for revelation to the nations, and the glory of God’s people, Israel.” The Eucharist will end with a procession of candles and there will be a festive aperitivo to mark the day.
After the Eucharist we shall take down the Crib. Offers of help will be received gladly by the Wardens.

15th January, 2023

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity begins on Wednesday. Detailed information about events can be found here.
There will be the usual midweek Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. on Wednesday. Our prayers will focus on the unity of all Christians.
There will be the customary dialogue between Jewish and Christian representatives on Tuesday, at 6.00 p.m. in the Sala Quadrivium. The topic this year will be the prophecy of Isaiah, focusing on the opening section of chapter 40.
The main events of the week itself in Genova will be a service at the Cathedral at 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 19^th January; a discussion between Pastor Michel Charbonnier and journalist Luigi Sandri on the very topical theme: “How will peace be achieved?” at 6.00 p.m. on Tuesday 24^th January in Sala Quadrivium; and an evening of dialogue and prayer largely set up and run by young people on Wednesday 25^th January at 8.30 p.m. in Sta Maria delle Vigne.
The church will be open this week for anyone wishing to pray for unity on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 5.00 p.m.
Next Sunday we mark the 3^rd Sunday of Epiphany. The Week of Prayer continues until 25^th January.

1st January – New Year 2023

The sermon at the morning Eucharist on New Year’s Day at Holy Ghost Genoa explored St Luke’s sudden switch from the shepherds to the circumcision. It’s a shift which underlines the paradox of the particularity of Jesus’ heritage and the universality of the Gospel. That universality was emphasised in the events of the afternoon organised by the local branch of the Comunità di Sant’Egidio to mark World Peace Day .

The celebration began with a concert for peace at the Annunziata. This is one of Genoa’s biggest churches, but all seats were filled and it was standing room only at the back. The concert was given by “Voci Bianche” a choir made up of young people who sing in the chorus at Genova’s Opera House. They performed Britten’s “A Ceremony of Carols” with energy and a fluency in Middle English that might not have been expected.

The concert was followed by speeches, including one from Archbishop Marco Tasca OFM and one from Ekaterina Slobdniuk representing the Ukrainian refugee community in Genova. All then left the church to take part in a march for peace through the city centre which was led by one of the tourist road trains which take visitors around Genova.

More than 2,000 people of all ages and many races, loudly chanting “Pa-ce! Pa-ce! Pa-ce!”, made their way from the Annunziata to the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. En route the procession passed the Archdiocesan Offices, where the Anglican chaplain, Canon Tony Dickinson, delivered a card of condolences on the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. It had been signed by everyone present at the Anglican Eucharist that morning.

The celebration ended with Mass in the Cathedral, at which Archbishop Marco presided and preached.

1st December 2022 Senior Alderman Michael Mainelli

In early December, Michael Mainelli, “Senior Alderman below the Chair” in the City of London (which means that he is, effectively, Lord Mayor-Designate) spent a long week-end in Genova, as he and Genova’s newly re-elected Mayor, Marco Bucci, conferred about ways in which they might re-invigorate the long-standing links between the two cities. It was, after all, London merchants at the time of the Crusades who first asked for permission to use the Genoese flag of St George on their ships in order to deter assault by pirates (1).

Alderman Michael Mainelli in the front pew during the opening speeches

There were talks and presentations about industry, commerce and high finance, and formal dinners with leading figures from the Genoese economy. However, Alderman Mainelli’s first engagement during the week-end was afternoon tea at the Church of the Holy Ghost, organised by the Honorary British Consul, Denise Dardani, a regular member of the congregation. Over a hundred people, British and Italian, gathered to enjoy tea, sandwiches, and cake and to listen to a talk by Avv. Alessandro Bartoli, a leading local authority on the history of the British community in Genoa and in the surrounding Italian Riviera. Avvocato Bartoli was introduced by the chaplain, Canon Tony Dickinson, who has recently produced his own contribution to chronicling the British presence in Liguria (2).

The event went off very well, with an exchange of gifts between the Alderman and the Chaplain and “a few words” from various interested parties, both British and Italian, which set the tone for the rest of the week-end. The members of the congregation who provided the catering and the waiting were quietly pleased at the result of their efforts, although churchwarden Lis Watkins Queirolo confessed that it would be a long time before she could look at a smoked salmon sandwich again with any sense of eager anticipation.

Notes:

(1) Genoese merchant ships were well-known for carrying a company of crossbowmen with instructions to use lethal force if their vessel came under attack.

(2) “Redeemed from Fire” was published in October as part of the church’s celebration of 150 years since the dedication of its present building. It tells the story of the Anglican community in Genova from the time of the Napoleonic Wars until the present day. Copies can be ordered from the Church at a price of €20,00

Thank you everyone for your contributions to our appeal in 2022.

“Redeemed from Fire”

A new history of the Anglican presence in Genoa since the early 19th century was published on 21st October. Canon Tony Dickinson’s talk at the book’s launch can be found here.

There are copies of “Redeemed from Fire” on sale from the church at €20,00. Please order here. You can pay

by sterling cheque or bank transfer in favour of the Diocese in Europe at 14 Tufton Street, London SW1P 3QZ,
by bank transfer in euros direct to the church’s Italian account,
or by making a donation here through the Diocese in Europe’s “Just Giving” page.

If you pay via the Diocese in Europe, either directly or through “Just Giving”, please make sure that you state clearly that your payment is to be credited to the account of the Church of the Holy Ghost Genoa, and that it is for a copy (or copies) of “Redeemed by Fire”.

New Year’s Day

A very happy New Year to all, and a warm welcome to anyone who is visiting this website for the first time.

Our thoughts at this season have been very much with bereaved families keeping their first Christmas without a loved one. Now we have to add to them our Catholic brothers and sisters around the world, as they mourn the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict. A condolence card was signed in church this morning and will be forwarded to Archbishop Marco Tasco.
This afternoon at 3.15 p.m. there will be a concert for peace at the Annunziata. It will be followed by a march for peace.
There will be a midweek Eucharist as usual at 12.30 p.m. on Wednesday.
On Friday we celebrate the feast of the Epiphany, giving glory to God for the revelation of his Son to the nations. There will be a Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. at which the wise men, who are already on their way, will be placed in the crib.
Next Sunday we keep the feast of the Baptism of Christ. The Eucharist will include an opportunity to renew the promises that were made at our own baptism.
The “150 for 150” appeal has now ended, but last-minute donations are still welcome, even if they don’t attract the matching funding that we have been promised by a generous donor.
Thanks to everyone who has been taking part in this year’s Reverse Advent Calendar scheme. If you haven’t done so already, please hand your offering to the Wardens as soon as possible, so that the contents can be sorted and distributed.

Christmas Day

A very happy Christmas to all visitors to this page. We have received greetings from Fr Moses Adesina in Guyana, from Fr Gordon Bond and Kevin Pask, from Fr David Emmott and Lynn, from Fr John Bennett and Rita, from Nancy and Peter Whitfield, from Stephen Coates, from the Edmunds family and from the Russian Orthodox congregation at San Giorgio.

Our Festival of Readings and Carols last Sunday raised over €300, which will be shared with Emergenza Freddo, helping to support their work among rough sleepers.

On the next three days there will be a Eucharist at 12.30 p.m., as we commemorate St Stephen (tomorrow), St John the Evangelist (on Tuesday), and the Holy Innocents (on Wednesday). Each of these commemorations draws us closer to an important aspect of the Christmas message.

Next Sunday we mark the beginning of a New Year. We also mark the beginning of Jesus’ life as a member of God’s covenant people when we commemorate the Naming and Circumcision of Jesus. The Eucharist will be celebrated at the usual time of 10.30 a.m.

For anyone who is still looking for that perfect Christmas present for a family member or friend: a reminder that the new history of the church, “Redeemed from Fire”, is on sale, price €20,00. Signed copies are available on request.

A reminder that the “150 for 150” appeal continues until the end of this week. Please see above for details of how to take part. And please remember that every euro that we raise is being matched by a generous donor.

A warm “Thank you” to everyone who has been taking part in this year’s Reverse Advent Calendar scheme. Participants are asked to let the Wardens have their box or bag as soon as possible, so that the contents can be distributed.

We are sorry to announce the death last night of Francesco Cevasco’s father. Please keep Francesco and his mother in your prayers during the coming days.

Sunday, 18th December

All in church were warmly welcomed, especially those who had come to support Alessandro and Ilaria as they received God’s blessing on this new stage in their relationship. Greetings were received from Fr Moses Adesina in Guyana.

Our Festival of Readings and Carols took place today at 5.30 p.m. We were joined by members of the Gruppo Genovese di Musica Antica. Over 100 people took part.
The midweek Eucharist takes place, as usual, on Wednesday at 12.30 p.m..
During this last week of Advent our resources for prayer and reflection can be found here. They focus chiefly on the “Great O Antiphons”, short pieces of music which are sung at evening prayer from 17^th to 23^rd December. Each of them is based on a title taken from the Hebrew Scriptures and given to Christ.
The church will be open for prayer this week at 5.00 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday.
Saturday is Christmas Eve. There will be a short service of prayers and carols round the Crib at 5.30 p.m. This will be followed by a simple Eucharist for those whose other commitments will prevent them from being in Church next Sunday.
Next Sunday is Christmas Day. The Eucharist will be celebrated at the usual time of 10.30 a.m. It will be followed by seasonal refreshments.
Those who find it impossible to be in church on either Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, because of family or other commitments, are reminded that there is a Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. on each of the three days immediately after Christmas Day, when we commemorate St Stephen, St John the Evangelist, and the Holy Innocents. It is possible for them to make their Christmas Communion at any of those.
Anyone looking for last-minute Christmas presents for family members and close friends, is reminded that the new history of the church, “Redeemed from Fire”, is on sale, price €20,00. Signed copies are available on request.
A reminder that the “150 for 150” appeal continues until the end of this year. The post above explains the many different ways in which it is possible to take part. Every euro that we raise will be matched by a generous donor.
Those who have been taking part in this year’s Reverse Advent Calendar scheme are asked to bring their box or bag to church next Sunday, so that the contents can be shared out appropriately.

Sunday, 11th December

This evening at 9.00 p.m. the monthly Taizé prayer takes place at San Marco al Molo.
At the midweek Eucharist on Wednesday we remember St John of the Cross, man of prayer, reformer, and possibly Spain’s greatest poet.
During this Advent season resources for prayer and reflection are appearing on this website and on the church’s Facebook page. A different thought or poem or piece of music appears each day on Facebook at “Church and Friends of the Holy Ghost”. The whole programme can be found here.
The church will be open for prayer this week at 5.00 p.m. each day from Tuesday, to Friday.
At the Eucharist next Sunday we shall give thanks for the marriage of Flora’s son Alex and his partner Ilaria. Please keep them in your prayers as they prepare for the civil ceremony tomorrow.
Also next Sunday the Festival of Readings and Carols will take place at 5.30 p.m. We will be joined by members of the Gruppo Genovese di Musica Antica. Please tell your friends. On the “Advent and Christmas” page of this website you can find details of this and other Christmas services.
If you are looking for suitable Christmas presents for family members and close friends, don’t forget that the new history of the church, “Redeemed from Fire”, is on sale, price €20,00. Signed copies with a dedication are available on request. Details of how to order can be found above.
A reminder that the “150 for 150” appeal continues until the end of this year. The many different ways in which it is possible to take part are explained above. Please remember that every euro that we raise will be matched by a generous donor.
It is still possible to take part in this year’s Reverse Advent Calendar scheme. Keep a box in a corner somewhere and each day put into it an item for the food bank, or the clothing bank, or something small but special as a Christmas gift. Then bring the box to church at Christmas, so that the contents can be shared out appropriately.

Sunday, 4th December

Thanks to those who stayed on after today’s Eucharist to help decorate the church. We will be putting up the crib before the Eucharist on Wednesday.
At the midweek Eucharist on Wednesday at 12.30 p.m. we shall remember St Ambrose, the great 4th-century bishop of Milan, and pioneer hymn-writer, who made an emperor do penance for a crime committed by his soldiers.
During this Advent season resources for prayer and reflection are appearing on this website and on the “Church and Friends of the Holy Ghost” FaceBook page. A different thought or poem or piece of music appears each day on FB. The whole programme can be found on the website here.
The church will be open for prayer this week at 5.00 p.m. each day from Tuesday, to Friday.
At the Eucharist next Sunday 11^th December Stanley and Clinton Odumenwen will be baptised to life in Christ.
The Festival of Readings and Carols will take place at 5.30 p.m. on Sunday, 18^th December. We will be joined by members of the Gruppo Genovese di Musica Antica.
The new history of the church, “Redeemed from Fire”, is on sale, price €20,00. Signed copies are available on request.
A reminder that the “150 for 150” appeal is continuing until the end of this year. In the box on the table in the porch there are leaflets explaining the many different ways in which you can take part. And please remember that every euro we raise will be matched by a generous donor.
It isn’t too late to take part in this year’s Reverse Advent Calendar scheme. Keep a box in a corner somewhere and each day put into it an item for the food bank, or the clothing bank, or something small but special as a Christmas gift. Then bring the box to church at Christmas, and we will do the rest.

Sunday, 27th November

Warmest thanks to everyone who helped, in whatever way, with our Winter Fair yesterday. Special mention for Ruth McGroary, our organizing genius, for Neil the impeturbable back-up, and for the wardens. Just over €1500 was raised for church funds.
At the midweek Eucharist on Wednesday we remember St Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother.
During this Advent season resources for prayer and reflection will be appearing on the church’s website and FB page. The first are already up there.
The church will be open for prayer this week at 5.00 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.
Next Sunday we will decorate the church and put up the crib. Offers of help on the day will be gratefully received and will be rewarded with a simple shared lunch for those who stay on.
Also next Sunday the Church Council meets. Members should have received their agenda and other papers. If not, please contact the chaplain ASAP.
The Festival of Readings and Carols will take place at 5.30 p.m. on Sunday, 18^th December. We will be joined by members of the Gruppo Genovese di Musica Antica.
The new history of the church, “Redeemed from Fire”, is on sale, price €20,00. Signed copies are available on request.
A reminder that the “150 for 150” appeal will continue until the end of this year. Please see above for details of how you can take part. And please remember that every euro we raise will be matched by a generous donor.
During the weeks of Advent, those who can are encouraged to take part in this year’s Reverse Advent Calendar scheme, by keeping a box in a corner somewhere and each day putting into it an item for the food bank, or the clothing bank, or something small but special as a Christmas gift. When the box is brought to church at Christmas the contents will be shared appropriately.

Sunday, 20th November

Today is the last day of our journey through the year with St Luke. From next Sunday the Gospel reading will normally be taken from the Gospel according to Matthew.
There will be the usual midweek Eucharist on Wednesday at 12.30 p.m. At that service we shall remember St Clement, one of the early Bishops of Rome.
The new history of the church, “Redeemed from Fire”, is on sale, price €20,00. They can be ordered through the link here. Signed copies are available on request.
Thanks to our friends from USS Mount Whitney for a great job on the boundary wall and the railings – though the railings are still “work in progress”.
Our Winter Fair takes place on Saturday from 3.00 p.m. until 6.00 p.m. Offers of help will be gladly received by Ruth McGroary, the wardens, or the chaplain.
On 4^th December after the Eucharist we will be decorating the church and putting up the crib. Offers of help on the day will be gratefully received and will be rewarded with a simple shared lunch for those who stay on.
A reminder that the “150 for 150” appeal will continue until the end of this year. The panel above explains the many different ways in which you can take part. And please remember that every euro we raise will be matched by a generous donor.
Next Sunday the season of Advent begins: the beginning of a new Church year and a time to prepare both for our yearly remembrance of the first coming of Jesus as the baby of Bethlehem and for his coming again at the end of human history; a time to watch and pray.

Sunday, 13th November

Tonight at 9.00 p.m. the monthly Taizé Prayer will take place at San Marco al Molo.
There will be the usual midweek Eucharist on Wednesday at 12.30 p.m. At that service we shall remember Margaret of Scotland and Edmund of Abingdon.
The new history of the church, “Redeemed from Fire”, is now on sale, price €20,00. Signed copies are available and can be ordered here.
Our friends from USS Mount Whitney will be back, weather permitting, on Thursday to finish the work they started so well last week.
Next Sunday we keep the feast of Christ the King, a reminder that the kingdoms of this world, and all earthly power structures, are provisional and under God’s judgement.
Looking further ahead: Our Winter Fair is now less than two weeks away. Offers of help will be gladly received by Ruth McGroary, the wardens, or the chaplain. The Fair will take place on Saturday 26^th November from 3.00 p.m. until 6.00 p.m. Copies of an A4 poster and an A5 flier are available at the back of the church.
On 4^th December after the Eucharist we will be decorating the church and putting up the crib. Offers of help on the day will be gratefully received and will be rewarded with a simple shared lunch for those who stay on.
A reminder that the “150 for 150” appeal will continue until the end of this year. The many different ways in which you can take part are outlined above. And please remember that every euro we raise will be matched by a generous donor.

Sunday, 6th November

This morning the Church of the Holy Ghost passed a milestone. More than half the initial print run of “Redeemed from Fire” has now been bought or spoken for. Six copies were sold after church this morning and one pre-publication order was picked up. Copies of this history of the church are selling at the price €20,00. Signed copies are available from the chaplain on request at no additional charge.
It was a great joy to welcome at this morning’s Eucharist Dr Alexander Moll, a former member of the staff of the Sailors’ Rest in Genova and one-time member of this congregation. He and his wife Marina, who sadly died recently, were married in the Church of the Holy Ghost more than 50 years ago.
There will be activity around the church on Tuesday. Members of the crew of USS Mount Whitney will be doing some work on the railings and the walls as part of a community service project while their ship is undergoing a refit in San Giorgio.
There will be the usual midweek Eucharist on Wednesday at 12.30 p.m. At that service we shall remember Margery Kempe, a 15th-century housewife, businesswoman, traveller, and woman of profound prayer.
Friday is the 104^th anniversary of the guns’ falling silent on the Western Front. There will be a brief Act of Remembrance in church at 10.45 a.m.=
Offers of help with our Winter Fair at the end of this month will be gladly received by Ruth McGroary, the churchwardens, or the chaplain. The Fair will take place on 26^th November from 3.00 p.m. until 6.00 p.m.
Next Sunday is Remembrance Sunday. At the Eucharist we shall remember all who have died in the World Wars and in more recent conflicts. It will include two minutes’ silence at 11.00 a.m. Members of the congregation are encouraged to make a donation to the Royal British Legion’s poppy appeal, which supports former members of the British armed forces who have been scarred, physically or mentally, by their experience in war.
Finally: a reminder that the “150 for 150” appeal will continue until the end of this year (see above for details of how you can take part). Please remember that every euro we raise will be matched by a generous donor.

Sunday, 30th October

Today marks the beginning of All Saints’ tide, the time of year when we remember those who have gone before us in faith, and those whom we have loved but see no longer.
There will be the usual midweek Eucharist on Wednesday at 12.30 p.m. At that service we shall keep the commemoration of All Souls. Please add to the list on the table the name of anyone you wish to be remembered at that service.
On Wednesday evening at 5.30 p.m. there will be a commemoration of the deportation of Genoa’s Jewish community in November 1943. It will begin with an act of remembrance in the foyer of the Teatro Carlo Felice and end with prayers at the synagogue in Via Assarotti.
The new history of the church, “Redeemed from Fire”, is now on sale, price €20,00.
On Saturday at 5.30 p.m. the Gruppo Genovese di Musica Antica will give a concert in church. It will include music from many lands and many centuries, united by the theme of wine.
Next Sunday is the third Sunday before Advent.
The following Sunday, 13^th November, is Remembrance Sunday. At the Eucharist that day we shall remember all who have died in the World Wars and in more recent conflicts. It will include two minutes’ silence at 11.00 a.m.
The “150 for 150” Appeal (see above for how you can take part) will continue until the end of this year. Please remember that every euro we raise will be matched by a generous donor.

Sunday, 23rd October

We were very pleased to welcome today’s preacher Archdeacon Joe Ajaefobi, after three years’ absence caused by the pandemic, and to share in a festive aperitivo at the end of the Eucharist.
The new history of the church, “Redeemed from Fire”, was launched on Friday. Copies are on sale for €20,00. They can be ordered from the chaplain.
There will be the usual midweek Eucharist on Wednesday at 12.30 p.m. At that service we shall remember Alfred the Great, 9^th-century king of the West Saxons, a scholar and the pastor of his people as well as their ruler. We shall also remember Cedd, 7^th-century bishop of the East Saxons.
On Friday (28th October) we remember St Simon and St Jude. There will be a Eucharist at 12.30 p.m.
Next Sunday (30th October) marks the beginning of All Saints’ tide. It is also the day when the clocks go back one hour. Please remember to reset yours.
On Wednesday 2^nd November we keep the commemoration of All Souls, remembering by name at the Eucharist those whom we have loved but see no longer. To add a name to the list of those to be remembered at that service, please contact the chaplain. Or leave a message at info@anglicanchurchgenoa.org
On Saturday 5^th November at 5.30 p.m. we shall host a concert by the Gruppo Genovese di Musica Antica.
The church’s Winter Fair will take place on Saturday, 26th November from 3.00 to 6.00 p.m. There will be home-made cakes, jams and chutneys, Christmas cards, handicrafts, and books on sale. There will be a tombola and raffle. Afternoon teas with traditional English mince pies will be served. For further information please contact info@anglicanchurchgenoa.org.
Our 150th Anniversary celebrations may be ending today, but the “150 for 150” Appeal will continue until the end of this year. Some of the many different ways in which you can take part are outlined above. And please remember that every euro we raise will be matched by a generous donor.

Thursday, 20th October

Sunday, 16th October

Tuesday is St Luke’s day. There will be a Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. with a special emphasis on prayer for healing, remembering St Paul’s “dear friend Luke the doctor”. All who are aware of a need for God’s healing presence, either in their own life or the lives of others, are invited to be present.
There will be the usual midweek Eucharist on Wednesday at 12.30 p.m. At that service we shall remember Henry Martyn, an eighteenth century evangelist and pioneer translator of the Bible into south Asian languages.
On Friday at 5.30 p.m. the new history of the church, “Redeemed from Fire” will be launched. All are welcome. Today is the last opportunity to put your name down for a copy at the special pre-publication price of €15,00. There are order forms at the back of the church.
Next Sunday we end our summer of anniversary celebrations with our Dedication Festival. We welcome as our preacher that day our dear brother Archdeacon Joseph Ajaefobi, the Anglican Church in Nigeria’s chaplain to the Nigerian diaspora in the UK and Europe.
The following Sunday (30^th October) marks the beginning of All Saints’ tide. On Wednesday 2^nd November we shall keep the commemoration of All Souls. Please let the chaplain have the names of anyone you wish to be remembered at that service.
We are continuing to receive responses to the “150 for 150” Appeal. There are more details about how to join the appeal at the head of this page.

Sunday, 9^th October

This evening there will be the monthly service in the style of the Taizé community at San Marco al Molo, down by the Porto Antico. It begins at 21:00 and usually lasts just under an hour. Those who have never experienced a Taizé-style service, are encouraged to give it a try. Much of it is in Italian, but you may also find yourself singing in French, Spanish or even English.
Tomorrow (Monday 10th October) at 17:30 there will be a book presentation. Gisella Merello will talk about her recently published history of All Saints Church in Bordighera.
There will as usual be a Eucharist at 12.30 on Wednesday. We shall remember the seventh century bishop, Wilfred the of Ripon and two rather more modern saints, Elizabeth Fry (d.1845), and Edith Cavell (d.1915).
At 17:30 on Friday 21^st October, printers permitting, we shall launch the history of this church. Orders for cut-price copies of the book must be submitted before then. There is €5,00 off the price for all orders received before 21^st October. On 21st and thereafter the book will cost the full €20. To order, please contact the chaplain.
We are continuing to receive responses to the “150 for 150” Appeal. Please see above for details. And please remember that we have been promised matching funding by a generous donor, so that every euro which is given doubles in value.
On Sunday, 23^rd October we end our summer of anniversary celebrations with our Dedication Festival. We welcome as our preacher that day Archdeacon Joseph Ajaefobi, chaplain to the Nigerian diaspora in Europe. Because of the pandemic, we have not seen Archdeacon Joe for some time, so all are encouraged to put the word out about his return to Genova.

Sunday, 2nd October

Tomorrow (3rd October) at 17:30 there will be a book presentation. Laura Guglielmi will talk about her book “Lady Constance Lloyd”, about the woman who was married to Oscar Wilde.
There will as usual be a Eucharist at 12.30 on Wednesday.
At 17:30 on Monday 10^th October there will be a rather different book presentation. Gisella Merello will talk about her recently published history of All Saints Church, Bordighera.
We are continuing to receive responses to the “150 for 150” Appeal and advance orders for “Redeemed from Fire”, the history of the Anglican community in Genoa since 1815. There is information above about the appeal. Donations made now will attract matching funding from a generous donor. The book can be ordered through the chaplain (for other ways of ordering, please see the notices for 29th September below). Please note that there is €5,00 off the price of “Redeemed from Fire” for all orders received before it is launched on 21^st October. More details about that will be announced next week.

Thursday, 29th September (Michaelmas Day)

“Redeemed from Fire”, the story of the Anglican presence in Genoa from 1815 to 2022, was sent to the printer today. To order your copy at the pre-publication price of €15,00, you can either

pick up an order form from the church, complete it and return it to church
contact the chaplain at chaplain@anglicanchurchgenoa.org or
email info@anglicanchurchgenoa.org

But whatever you do, please do it before 21st October (publication day) when the offer ends and the full price of €20,00 applies.

Sunday, 25th September

Padre Filip Sorin and the people of the Romanian Orthodox congregation in Sestri have added their expression of sympathy over the death of Queen Elizabeth to the many that were announced last week.
The Church Council meeting scheduled for this morning has been postponed until next Sunday.
Those who weren’t able to be present the Wednesday before last at the launch of the chaplain’s new book “Four Ways to the Cross” may like to know that there are a few copies available for sale.
After the dislocation caused by last week’s absences at Synod, etc., we are back to normal this week with a Eucharist at 12.30 on Wednesday.
There will also be a Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. on Thursday, as we celebrate St Michael and All Angels.
On Saturday at 17:00 there will be a round-table discussion in church about the place of the Anglican church in the ecumenical life of this city. It will be led by colleagues from the Baptist, Methodist and Waldensian traditions (and, we hope, a Catholic).
The talk by Laura Guglielmi which was postponed because of Queen Elizabeth’s funeral will now take place at 17:30 on Monday, 3^rd October.
Next Sunday is Harvest Thanksgiving. After the Eucharist, and before the postponed meeting of the Church Council, there will be an aperitivo. We hope to be arranging them more regularly in future.

Sunday, 18th September

Thanks to everyone who has contributed to making everything run smoothly at what is a time of huge upheaval not only for people in the UK but for millions around the world. We have received condolences from people in France and Switzerland as well as from Anna Maria Saiano the American Consul-General, from our good friend Oriana Danieli, from Kevin and Fr Gordon in the UK, Fr Giovanni in Sicily and Fr Moses in Guyana.
The period of official mourning for Queen Elizabeth ends after her funeral tomorrow (19th September) at 11:00 BST: i.e. midday CEST. There will be a short service of Evening Prayer, following the order of the Book of Common Prayer, in church tomorrow at 17:00 CEST to mark the end of the period of mourning.
Because the chaplain is away at Archdeaconry Synod in Sicily this week, there will be no service at 12.30 on Wednesday.
Because of the clash with Queen Elizabeth’s funeral, the talk by Laura Guglielmi which was scheduled for 19th September will now take place at 17:30 on Monday, 3^rd October.
On Saturday 1^st October at 17:00 there will be a round-table discussion about the place of the Anglican church in the ecumenical life of this city. It will be led by colleagues from the Baptist, Methodist and Waldensian traditions (and, we hope, a Catholic).
We are receiving more responses to the “150 for 150” Appeal and orders for the history of the church. Please see the panel above to learn more about the appeal. Copies of the book, at the special pre-publication price of €15,00, can be ordered from the chaplain.
Next Sunday, after the Eucharist, there will be a meeting of the Church Council. Members of the council should have received their agendas yesterday. Anyone who has not is asked to let the chaplain know as soon as possible.

More on the death of Queen Elizabeth

The church is open for visitors to sign the book of condolence each day between 14th and 17th September (inclusive) from 11:00 to 16:00.
The church will also be open on Sunday from 10:00 until 15:00. The Sunday Eucharist at 10:30 will include prayers for the new King.
On the day of the late Queen’s funeral, Monday, 19th September, there will be a short said service of Evening Prayer at 17:00. It will follow the order of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer.

The death of Queen Elizabeth II

Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Bishop Robert has issued a statement on the Diocesan website. You can read it, or listen at https://europe.anglican.org/…/1842-bishop-robert-offers…

Sunday’s service will be a special one to mark the death of Queen Elizabeth and to pray for the royal family. In the chaplain’s absence in the UK, it will be led by Fr Robert Morley. Further details of events to mark the Queen’s passing can be obtained from the senior churchwarden, Mary Wellington, or from the Honorary British Consul, Denise Dardani.
Three prayers for use during these days of mourning for Queen Elizabeth II:

O Lord our Heavenly Father, Almighty and Everlasting God, by whom kings reign and princes decree justice: We remember before thee our late Sovereign Lady QUEEN ELIZABETH, in thankfulness for the blessings which thou hast bestowed upon us by her reign; for the example she set of unwearied devotion to duty; for her steadfast courage; and for the love and loyalty borne to her by a great family of peoples in all parts of the world. And we beseech thee to give us grace that, having these thy mercies in remembrance, we may with one heart and one mind set forward the welfare of this land, and hasten the coming of thy kingdom of peace and goodwill among men; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Almighty God, Father of all mercies and giver of all comfort: deal graciously, we pray thee, with all those who mourn, the members of the Royal Family, this Nation and all Nations of the Commonwealth, that casting every care on thee, we may know the consolation of thy love; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Almighty God, who rulest over all the kingdoms of the world, and disposest of them according to thy good pleasure, and who hast now called thy Servant our Sovereign Lord the King to the Throne of this Realm: let thy wisdom be his guide, and let thine arm strengthen him; let justice, truth, and holiness, let peace and love, and all those virtues that adorn the Christian Profession, flourish in his days. Direct all his counsels and endeavours to thy glory, and the welfare of his people; and give us grace to obey him cheerfully and willingly for conscience sake; that neither our sinful passions, nor our private interests, may disappoint his cares for the public good; let him always possess the hearts of his people, that they may never be wanting in honour to his Person, and dutiful submission to his Authority; let his Reign be long and prosperous, and crown him with immortality in the life to come; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Sunday, 28th August

At the Eucharist at 12.30 on Wednesday we shall remember St Aidan, the Irish monk who became one of the great figures of the re-evangelisation of Britain.
A reminder that the next event in our 150^th Anniversary programme will be the launch of the chaplain’s new book “Four Ways to the Cross”. That will take place on the evening of Holy Cross Day, Wednesday 14^th September.
On Monday 19^th September there will be a talk by Laura Guglielmi about Constance Lloyd, who is buried at Staglieno and who was once the wife of the playwright Oscar Wilde. There will be other events, too, before our summer of celebration ends. You can find further details about some of these on the church notice-boards.
If you would like to know more about the “150 for 150” Appeal please see the panel immediately above.
Orders for the history of the church, “Redeemed by Fire”, at the special pre-publication price of 15 euros can be placed with the chaplain.
The chaplain will be away for the next two next Sundays. The Eucharist on the 12^th after Trinity, will be led by the Revd Robert Morley from All Saints, Milan.

Sunday, 21st August

At the Eucharist on Wednesday at 12.30 p.m. we shall remember St Bartholomew the Apostle, and all who were killed on his feast day, and during the following days, in 1572.
150^th Anniversary news: The next event in our programme will be the launch of the chaplain’s latest book, “Four Ways to the Cross”. That will take place on the evening of Holy Cross Day, Wednesday 14^th September. On Monday 19^th September there will be a talk by Laura Guglielmi about Constance Lloyd, who is buried at Staglieno and who was once the wife of the playwright Oscar Wilde. There will be other events, too, before our summer of celebration ends. Further details about some of these appear elsewhere on this page.
We are continuing to receive responses to the “150 for 150” Appeal and orders for the history of the church. There is information about both at the head of this page.
Next Sunday we shall mark the 11^th Sunday after Trinity.

Sunday, 14th August, 2022

Tomorrow in Italy is a public holiday in honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Enjoy yourselves but please keep as cool as you can. Some members of the congregation have been struggling with heat exhaustion in recent days. They will tell you that it is not a pleasant experience.
On Wednesday there will be the usual celebration of the Eucharist at 12.30 p.m.
150^th Anniversary news: The next event in our programme will be the launch of the chaplain’s new book “Four Ways to the Cross”. That will take place on the evening of Holy Cross Day, Wednesday 14^th September. On Monday 19^th September there will be a talk by Laura Guglielmi about Constance Lloyd, who is buried at Staglieno and who was the wife of the playwright Oscar Wilde. There will be other events, too, before our summer of celebration ends. Further details about some of these can be found on this page. Others will be added.
We are receiving more responses to the “150 for 150” Appeal and orders for the history of the church. There is information about both elsewhere on this page.
Next Sunday’s service will be the Eucharist for the 10^th Sunday after Trinity.

Sunday, 7th August, 2022

On Wednesday there will be the usual celebration of the Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. We shall be remembering St Laurence, deacon and third-century martyr at Rome, and a man with a typically Roman sense of humour.
150^th Anniversary news: It has all gone quiet this month. The combination of holidays and heat is rather too much. However, next month we have an interesting programme, with the launch of the chaplain’s latest book “Four Ways to the Cross”. That will take place on the evening of Holy Cross Day, Wednesday 14^th September. There will also be a talk on Monday 19^th September by Laura Guglielmi about Constance Lloyd, who is buried in the Protestant Cemetery at Staglieno and who was once the wife of the playwright Oscar Wilde. There will be other events, too, before our summer of celebration ends. You can find further details about some of these elsewhere on this page.
We are receiving more responses to the “150 for 150” Appeal and orders for the history of the church. There is information about the appeal elsewhere on this page. Copies of the book can be ordered through the chaplain.
Next Sunday’s service will be the Eucharist for the 9^th Sunday after Trinity.

Sunday 17th July, 2022

The chaplain will be away for the next couple of weeks, visiting family in the UK. The regular services will take place as usual BUT there will not be a service to mark either the Feast of Mary Magdalen on 22nd July or St James on 25th July.
On Wednesdays 20th and 27th July there will be midday prayers at 12.30 p.m. instead of a celebration of the Eucharist.
150^th Anniversary news: anyone who missed the book presentation on Wednesday may like to know that there will be other presentations later in the year, from a range of authors on a variety of topics. The details are listed above.
We are receiving more responses to the “150 for 150” Appeal (see above) and orders for the history of the church. Copies of the history can be ordered from the chaplain.
The service on the next two Sundays (24th and 31st July) will be Morning Prayer with hymns. The service on 24th July will be led by Mary Wellington.

Sunday 10th July, 2022

It was good to welcome our Archdeacon, The Venerable David Waller, visiting us for the first time, and the family members and friends of Clinton Idumenweh for whose birth we gave thanks. Many people accepted the invitation to join in the bring-and share lunch after the Eucharist.
On Wednesday there will be the usual midweek celebration of the Eucharist at 12.30 p.m.
150^th Anniversary news: The first of our summer series of book presentations takes place on Wednesday at 5.30 p.m. It will feature the chaplain’s new book about the Anglo-Welsh priest and poet George Herbert. Copies will be available for sale – for signing! There will be more presentations later in the year, from a range of authors on a wide variety of topics. The details of the programme are posted higher up this page.
We are receiving more responses to the “150 for 150” Appeal and orders for “Redeemed from Fire”, the history of the Anglican church in Genoa. There is information about the appeal elsewhere on this page. To order copies of “Redeemed from Fire”, please contact the chaplain. And see below for details of the special pre-publication offer.
Next Sunday the service will be as usual.

Sunday 3rd July, 2022

Last Sunday the work being done on the church tower and guttering was mentioned. We owe our thanks to Tecnofune for the courtesy and efficiency with which they carried out the work.
Last Sunday there was also mention of the celebration of “Genova nel Mondo: Il Mondo a Genova” ten days ago. You can see some pictures of that celebration below (26th June).
On Wednesday there will be the usual midweek celebration of the Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. This week we remember Thomas More and John Fisher who died for their faith in the reign of King Henry VIII.
150^th Anniversary news: Part of our celebration this summer includes a series of book presentations, from a range of authors on a wide variety of topics. The details are published above. The first one takes place ten days from now, on Wednesday 13^th July at 5.30 p.m.
We are beginning to receive responses to the “150 for 150” Appeal (see above) and orders for the history of the church. To take advantage of the pre-publication special offer for the book (€15,00 rather than €20,00), please contact the chaplain.
Next Sunday we welcome Archdeacon David Waller on his first visit to Genova. There will be a bring-and share lunch after the Eucharist that day. If anyone is free to collect Archdeacon David from the Airport on Friday evening, the chaplain would be very pleased to hear from them.
At the Eucharist next Sunday we will give thanks for the birth of Clinton Idumenweh.

Sunday 26th June, 2022

Special thanks to John who came in extra early this morning to clean the church. The cleaning team’s normal time yesterday was ruled out because of the work being done on the church tower and guttering.
Some pictures from last Tuesday’s celebration of “Genova nel Mondo: Il Mondo a Genova” appear below.
On Wednesday there will be the usual midweek celebration of the Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. This week we celebrate St Peter and St Paul.
150^th Anniversary news: Our Anniversary week-end, the Patronal Festival and the Jubilee celebrations are currently featured on the diocesan website, with some splendid pictures. We are beginning to receive responses to the “150 for 150” Appeal and orders for the history of the church. You can take part in the Appeal by giving here [NB: please make sure to state clearly that your gift is for “Holy Ghost, Genoa: 150 for 150 Appeal“]. To order a copy of “Redeemed from Fire” at the pre-publication price of €15,00, please contact the chaplain.
Next Sunday we remember St Thomas at the Eucharist.
The Sunday after that (10^th July) we welcome Archdeacon David Waller on his first visit to Genova. There will be a bring-and share lunch after the Eucharist that day. If anyone can collect Archdeacon David from the Airport on the evening of Friday 8^th July, please contact the chaplain.

Sunday 19th June, 2022

Today we celebrated the baptism to life in Christ of Fumiko Anna Semini. It was a joyful occasion. The chaplain’s sermon can be found here.
On Tuesday there will be a civic celebration of “Genova nel Mondo: Il Mondo a Genova”. From 3.00 p.m. there will be a “cultural exhibition” in the Palazzo della Borsa at the top of Via Venti; and in the evening, from 8.30 p.m., there will be a show at the Teatro Carlo Felice. Further details (in Italian) below.
On Wednesday there will be the usual midweek Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. This week we remember St Alban, the third-century Roman soldier who became the first martyr of Britain.
Friday is a public holiday in Genova as the city celebrates the birthday of John the Baptist, its patron saint. There will be a Eucharist that day at 12.30 p.m.
Our 150^th Anniversary celebrations which began two weeks ago will continue though the summer until our Dedication Festival at the end of October. A short account of the opening weekend can be read here.
Don’t miss the pre-publication special offer on the history of the church which will be published in October (please contact the chaplain for details of how to order) and the “150 for 150” Appeal (see above).

Sunday 12th June, 2022

A huge thank you to the team which prepared and carried through Friday’s very successful and enjoyable Platinum Jubilee event (see pictures under “Friday 10th June” below). It was warmly appreciated by the people who took part.
Tonight at 9.00 p.m. there is the monthly meeting at San Marco al Molo for prayer in the style of the Taizé Community.
On Tuesday at 8.30 p.m. at Santa Maria in Castello there will be a gathering for anyone who wishes to pray for Nigeria, and particularly for the people of Owo, at this sad time.
On Wednesday there will be the usual celebration of the Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. We shall remember the spiritual writer Evelyn Underhill – and her link to Genoa.
From tomorrow we are back in “ordinary time” until All Saints’Day at the beginning of November.

Friday, 10th June

Our belated Jubilee celebrations finally took place with Fiona Graham, the Consul General from Milan, joining Genova’s Honorary British Consul Denise Dardani, to welcome a gathering of over 80 people, including representatives of the Comune and other official bodies as well as members of the British community in Liguria.

Above pictures courtesy of The Chaplain, Ruth McGroary, and Flora Capostagno.

Sunday 5th June: Pentecost

We were very grateful to Bishop David for his presence on this special week-end. It was a splendid celebration of the presence of the Holy Spirit, focused on the baptism of Edwin and Sarah, and the confirmation of Sarah and Blessing (pictures below). We were very pleased to welcome Consigliere Delegato Vittorio Ottonello representing the city’s Mayor. And it was good that so many people stayed for our “bring and share” lunch after the Eucharist.
Yesterday we celebrated the 150^th Anniversary of the dedication of this church building to the glory of God the Holy Ghost. As part of our celebration we had a reading from the forthcoming history of the church, “Redeemed from Fire”. If you would like to buy a copy at the special pre-publication price of €15,00 please contact the chaplain.
We have received anniversary greetings from the Lutheran Church here in Genova, from the Anglican congregation in Bordighera, from Vickie Sims in Milan, Fr David Emmott in Liverpool, Fr Clifford Owen in Norfolk, Fr Giovanni la Rosa in Sicily, and Angela Mirani in Varese.
A number of contributions marking our 150^th Anniversary have been posted here. Don’t miss them.
On Wednesday there will be the usual celebration of the Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. Wednesday is one of the so-called “Ember Days”, when we pray for those who are to be ordained in the coming weeks; for those who are in training for ordained ministry; and for all who are wondering whether God might be calling them to some kind of ministry in the church.
On Friday at 5.30 p.m. we will be celebrating the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. There will be tea, and we shall welcome the new Consul General from Milan, Catriona Graham, as well as our own Honorary Consul Denise Dardani. Please let Denise know if you are planning to be present.
Next Sunday is Trinity Sunday. The Eucharist will be at 10.30 a.m. as usual.
Amid all the greetings this morning, we also had to say “arrivederci”: Roma is heading back to Australia tomorrow, and we wish her “Buon viaggio”. We hope that we will see her again next year as the weather gets cooler and wetter “down under”.

Saturday, 4th June

Today we celebrate the 150th anniversary of the consecration of the Church of the Holy Ghost in 1872 by Bishop Charles Amyand Harris.

The Church of England has had an almost continuous presence in Genova ever since the British Commander in Chief (Mediterranean) proclaimed the restoration of the Genoese Republic in 1814.

The English Church has had a powerful impact on the life of the city through its involvement in the foundation of the Ospedale Evangelico Internazionale and an even greater impact on the sporting life of Italy as a whole, through its role in the foundation in 1893 of the Genoa Cricket and Football Club.

Today, to mark this anniversary, Bishop David Hamid, the Assistant Bishop of the Diocese of Gibraltar in Europe, is visiting Genova. He will celebrate a special Festival Eucharist, including baptisms and confirmations, at 10:30 on 5^th June (the Feast of Pentecost).

From 18:00 to 19:30 this evening there will be an opportunity to meet the bishop, and the priest of the Anglican church, Canon Tony Dickinson, over an aperitivo at the Church of the Holy Ghost.

Canon Tony Dickinson will be reading extracts from his forthcoming book about the church, “Redeemed from Fire”, which will be published in the autumn. There will be an opportunity to order copies of this, and to sign up for the church’s anniversary appeal.

You will find greetings and anniversary reflections from three of our former locum chaplains here.

Sunday, 29th May

On Tuesday, as part of what is sometimes called “the run-up to Christmas”, we remember the visit which the Virgin Mary made to Elizabeth. There will be a Eucharist at 12.30 p.m.
On Wednesday there will be the usual celebration of the Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. We shall be remembering the pagan philosopher Justin, who became a Christian and a powerful advocate for his new faith. He was executed by the Roman authorities on this day some time early in the second half of the second century of our era, round about AD 165.
On Saturday we mark the 150^th Anniversary of the dedication of this church building to the glory of God the Holy Ghost. Bishop David will join us that evening for a celebratory aperitivo at 6.00 p.m. and I will be reading extracts from the new history of the church, which is due to be published in the autumn. Copies of that can be ordered in advance on Saturday, and we will also be launching our anniversary appeal “150 for 150”. Please tell all your friends.
Next Sunday is the Feast of Pentecost, when we remember the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the disciples. It is also our patronal festival. Bishop David will preside at our Eucharist that morning and he will baptise and confirm. Please keep all the candidates in your prayers during the coming days. After the Eucharist there will be a bring-and-share lunch.
We shall be hosting a celebration of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee on Friday, 10^th June at 5.30 p.m. There will, of course, be tea. Those who are planning to be present are asked to let the British Consul, Denise Dardani, know by next Sunday.

22nd May, 2002

Canon Tony Dickinson is now out of quarantine and Covid-negative. He sends thanks to everyone who has been holding him in prayer during these past two weeks.
The new Church Council is finalising the details of our programme to mark the 150^th anniversary of Bishop Charles Harris’s visit to dedicate this building. Please keep an eye open for announcements on this page, and watch out for WhatsApp messages about the various events during this summer of celebration.
The last of the current series of ecumenical Bible studies takes place on Tuesday at 6.00 p.m. at the Baptist Church in Via Vernazza.
On Wednesday there will be a celebration of the Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. We shall be remembering two important figures from the early years of the English Church, and from opposite ends of England: Bede from Jarrow in the North-East and Aldhelm from Wessex in the South-West.
On Thursday we celebrate Ascension Day. The church will, as usual, be open all day for prayer from 9.30 to 5.30 as part of the international prayer campaign “Thy Kingdom Come”. There will be a Eucharist that day at 12.30 p.m.
Bishop David will be with us two weeks today to share the celebration of our patronal festival and to baptise and confirm three candidates. Please keep Sarah, Blessing and Edwin, in your prayers during the coming days.

15th May, 2022

Last week Canon Tony Dickinson tested positive for Covid-19. He is still in quarantine but not, it is hoped, for much longer.
The first meeting of the new Church Council has been postponed until next Sunday.
The ecumenical Bible studies continue on Tuesday at 6.00 p.m. at the Baptist Church in Via Vernazza. The studies are following Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem as it is described in St Luke’s Gospel.
On Wednesday, if the chaplain is no longer self-isolating, there will be a celebration of the Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. If he is not out of quarantine by then, there will again be midday prayers.
In ten days’ time, on Thursday 26^th May, we celebrate Ascension Day. The church will, as usual, be open all day for prayer as part of the international “Thy Kingdom Come” event. There will be a Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. that day. Further details next Sunday.
A reminder that Bishop David will visit us at Pentecost for our patronal festival. That visit also marks the beginning of our celebration of the 150^th anniversary of Bishop Charles Harris’s visit to dedicate this building.

8th May, 2022

Huge thanks to our churchwardens Mary Wellington and Lis Watkins for leading today’s service at very short notice in the unavoidable absence of the chaplain through illness.
We are now four Sundays into our seven-week celebration of Jesus’ resurrection.
This evening at 9.00 p.m. there will be the usual monthly prayers in the style of the Taizé Community at San Marco al Molo.
On Tuesday the ecumenical Bible studies begin again at 6.00 p.m. at the Baptist Church in Via Vernazza. We continue our exploration of St Luke’s account of Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem.
On Wednesday, the chaplain’s health permitting, there will be the usual celebration of the Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. Otherwise, there will be midday prayers.
Bishop David will visit us at Pentecost for our patronal festival. That visit also marks the beginning of our celebration of the 150^th anniversary of Bishop Charles Harris’s visit to dedicate this building.

1st May, 2022

We are now three Sundays into our seven-week celebration of Jesus’ resurrection, which will continue until Bishop David’s visit at Pentecost. That visit also marks the beginning of our celebration of the 150^th anniversary of Bishop Charles Harris’s visit to dedicate this building in June 1872.
Tomorrow we have a delayed celebration for St Philip and St James. There will be a Eucharist at 12.30 p.m.
There will be the usual celebration at 12.30 p.m.on Wednesday, at which we shall remember the Saints and Martyrs of the Reformation Era.
Next Sunday evening at 9.00 p.m. there will be the usual monthly prayers in the style of the Taizé Community at San Marco al Molo.
A week on Tuesday (10^th May) the ecumenical Bible studies begin again at 6.00 p.m. at the Baptist Church in Via Vernazza. We continue our exploration of St Luke’s account of Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem.
Lis Watkins and Mary Wellington were today inducted for a further year as churchwardens.

24th April, 2022

Our Annual Church Meeting was held after this morning’s Eucharist. Mary Wellington and Lis Watkins were re-elected as churchwardens (by acclamation). Ruth Oteri Pfaffhauser and Alexia Piaggio were elected to the church council in place of Flora Capostagno and Peter Asemwota.
We are now two Sundays into our seven weeks celebrating Jesus’ resurrection, which will last until Bishop David’s visit at Pentecost. That visit also marks the beginning of our celebration of the 150^th anniversary of Bishop Charles Harris’s visit to dedicate this building.
Tomorrow we have a celebration for St Mark, the author of the first Gospel to be written. There will be a Eucharist at 12.30 p.m.
On Tuesday we shall have a belated celebration for St George who was bumped from his proper day (23rd April) because Easter Week, like Holy Week, takes priority over everything else. There will be a Eucharist at 12.30 p.m.
There will be the usual celebration at 12.30 p.m. on Wednesday, at which we shall remember the poet Christina Rossetti.
On Wednesday evening at 7.45 p.m. there will be a concert of Ukrainian folk music and dance by the Veryovka Ensemble at Teatro Carlo Felice. Entry is free, but there will be an offering for Ukraine.

This is the last call for anyone thinking about baptism and confirmation when Bishop David comes in six weeks’ time. Anybody wondering whether God might be calling them to take this step of faith, or wanting to know more, should contact the chaplain.
After a slow start with the book linked to the Anniversary celebrations we are making real headway. Seven chapters have now been written (we expect there to be about 15 in total). If anyone has the spare time to look at a chapter or two in draft and to correct any spelling mistakes, errors of fact, etc., the chaplain would be very pleased to hear from them.

17th April, 2022

A happy and blessed Easter to everyone!

We have received Easter Greetings from Archdeacon Joe Ajaefobi, from Diane Conrad, from David and Lynn Emmott and the people of St Margaret’s, Toxteth, and from Stephen and Mary Coates, whose card is on the notice-board.
Easter, like Christmas, is not just a one day wonder. It is the beginning of seven weeks of celebration. To start that celebration there will be a lunchtime Eucharist every day this week at 12.30 p.m.
Looking ahead: we have a celebration for St Mark one week from tomorrow, and for St George one week on Tuesday. There will be a Eucharist at 12.30 p.m. on each of those days. Poor George has been bumped from his own proper day (23rd April) because Easter Week, like Holy Week, takes priority over everything else.
There are two adults signed up for baptism and confirmation in the summer. If you wonder whether God might be calling you to join them, or if you would like to know more, please contact the chaplain.
Next Sunday we shall be holding our Annual Church Meeting after the Eucharist. Papers for the meeting went out last week to everyone whose name appears on the church’s electoral roll. If your name is on the roll and you haven’t received your papers, please contact the chaplain. We need to elect two churchwardens (both our present wardens are eligible for re-election, should they wish to stand) and two members of the church council to replace Flora Capostagno and Peter Asemwota, both of whom have finished their three-year term of office and are taking a well-earned rest.

10th April, 2022

Holy Week begins today. There will be a lunchtime Eucharist on Monday and Wednesday at 12.30 p.m. and on Tuesday there will be midday prayers, also at 12.30.
The monthly Taizé prayer will take place at San Marco al Molo at 9.00 p.m. tonight.
On Wednesday evening, at 6.00 p.m. there will again be Zoomed prayers for peace in Ukraine. All are welcome to join in this. You will find the link here.
On Thursday we shall remember that last supper which Jesus shared with his friends. There will be a Eucharist at 6.00 p.m. that evening, and that will be followed by the reading of the Gospel of the watch as we strip the church in readiness for Good Friday.
The service on Good Friday will be at 2.00 p.m. We shall listen to St John’s account of the trial and death of Jesus, and we shall pray for this world to which he came in love and humility and for which he died.
We have two adults signed up for baptism and confirmation in the summer. Anyone who would like to join them, or to know more, is asked to contact the chaplain.
Two weeks from today we shall be holding our Annual Church Meeting after the Eucharist. The new version of the Electoral Roll is now on the notice-board. Papers for the Annual Meeting will be going out during the next few days to everyone whose name appears on that list.
Next Sunday is Easter Day. The service will begin with the lighting of the Easter Candle at 10.30 a.m.

6th April, 2022

Pictures from the Eucharist on Mothering Sunday, the baptism on Lent 5 and the workshop turning home-grown palm-fronds into home-made palm crosses ready for Palm Sunday can be found here.

3rd April, 2022

We are now entering the home stretch as we follow Jesus along the way of the cross. So it is good that this morning there is a little foretaste of Easter as we celebrate the baptism of Prince Esemuede immediately after this Eucharist.
We have two adults signed up for baptism and confirmation in the summer. Anyone who would like to join them, or to know more, is asked to contact the chaplain.
Our Lent programme reaches its end this week. The last of the ecumenical Bible Studies takes place at the Baptist Church on Tuesday at 6.00 p.m. and at noon on Wednesday we have the final talk in our series “Faces in the Crowd”. This week’s talk is “Going against the Crowd”. It will be followed by the regular 12.30 Eucharist.
Also on Wednesday, at 6.00 p.m. in the evening, there will again be Zoomed prayers for peace in Ukraine. All are welcome to join in this. The link can be found here and on the church’s Facebook page..
On Friday we have the last of our weekly quiet afternoons, beginning with Midday Prayer at 12.30 p.m. and ending at 5.30 p.m. It is not necessary to stay for the whole of that time. All are welcome to come when they can and leave when they have to, even if they stay for no more than five minutes. Spiritual help, including sacramental confession and absolution, is also available for anyone who wants it.
On Friday and Saturday the Ospedale Evangelico Internazionale is running a conference about violence against women. It ends with a dramatic presentation “Quattro Donne” at 6.00 p.m. in the Chiesa Valdese. All are welcome, so long as they have a mascherina and a super Green Pass.
Later this month we shall be holding our Annual Church Meeting. As part of the preparation for that we are updating the church’s Electoral Roll, the list of those who are entitled to vote at that meeting or to stand for election. Anyone who thinks of the Church of the Holy Ghost as their church, is over 16 years old and baptised, ought to have their name on that list. The closing dates for applications is Saturday 9th April.
Next Sunday is Palm Sunday. The service will begin with a procession (weather permitting). Help making palm crosses on Wednesday will be appreciated.

27th March, 2022

As we begin the fourth full week of Lent, here is a reminder about the varied opportunities to learn and to grow in faith which are listed in our Lent programme, copies of which can be found in church.
In addition to the events listed in our own programme, there are also ecumenical Bible Studies at the Baptist Church on Tuesdays at 6.00 p.m. We are following St Luke’s account of the Lord’s journey from Galilee to Jerusalem and his death. The working language is Italian.
Here on Wednesday at 12.00 noon we continue our series of short talks looking at the “Faces in the Crowd” around Jesus in the last week of his life. This week’s talk focuses on “The Women in the Crowd”. The talk will be followed by the regular 12.30 Eucharist.
Also on Wednesday, at 6.00 p.m. in the evening, there will be Zoomed prayers for peace in Ukraine, led by people from across the diocese. All are invited to join in this. The link can be found here and on the church’s Facebook page.
On Friday we are returning to our pattern of weekly quiet afternoons. There will be Midday Prayer at 12.30 p.m. This will lead into the drop-in quiet afternoon which will end at 5.30 p.m. It is not necessary for stay for the whole of that time. People are free to come when they can and leave when they have to, even if it’s only five minutes’ peace that they are looking for. There is material available to help your prayer. Spiritual help, including sacramental confession and absolution are also available.
On Saturday at 5.00 p.m. in the Chiesa Valdese there will be a concert of music for cello and piano by Bach, Schumann, Mozart and others. All are welcome, so long as they have a mascherina and a super Green Pass.
In just over a month’s time we shall be holding our Annual Church Meeting. As part of the preparation for that we are updating the church’s Electoral Roll, the list of those who are entitled to vote at that meeting or to stand for election. Anyone who thinks of the Church of the Holy Ghost as their church, is over 16 years old and baptised, ought to have their name on that list. If it isn’t, they are encouraged to fill in an application form and return it to church by 9^th April.
Next Sunday is the fifth Sunday in Lent. Passiontide begins.

20th March, 2022

Today the third full week of Lent begins. It isn’t too late to take up one of the varied opportunities to learn and to grow in faith. These are listed in the programme for Lent.
In addition to the events listed in our own programme, there are also ecumenical Bible Studies at the Baptist Church on Tuesday at 6.00 p.m. We are following St Luke’s account of the Lord’s journey from Galilee to Jerusalem and his death. The working language is Italian.
Here on Wednesday at 12.00 noon we continue our series of short talks looking at the “Faces in the Crowd” around Jesus in the last week of his life. This week’s talk focuses on “The Jerusalem crowd”, the people who gathered to arrest Jesus in the darkness or who demonstrated next morning outside the Governor’s headquarters. That will be followed by the regular 12.30 Eucharist.
Also on Wednesday, at 6.00 p.m. in the evening, there will be Zoomed prayers for peace in Ukraine, led by people from across the diocese. All are invited to join in this. The link can be found on the flier below.
On Friday we celebrate one of the most important days in the Church’s calendar, the beginning of the Christmas story, the Annunciation of our Lord to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Gabriel’s disquieting message that she was to bear God’s Son. There will be a Eucharist 12.30 p.m., which means that there will not be a drop-in quiet afternoon. Things will return to their normal Lenten pattern on 1^st April.
In just over a month’s time we shall be holding our Annual Church Meeting. As part of the preparation for that we are updating the church’s Electoral Roll, the list of those who are entitled to vote at that meeting or to stand for election. Anyone who thinks of the Church of the Holy Ghost as their church, is a regular worshipper, baptised and over 16 ought to find their name on that list (available in church for consultation). If it is not, they should request an application form from the chaplain, fill it in and return it to church by 9^th April.
Next Sunday is the fourth Sunday in Lent, Mothering Sunday, when we give thanks for all those who have mothered us. It is also (please note) the day that the clocks go forward one hour.