St Albans RC Church Redcar
Union of Catholic Mothers
Wilf Mannion
St Abans In The Past
We Were There In 1982
Lets Have A Debate
Norman Evans MBE
Lady Mayor
Crusade
The Cupid Cleric
First Communion 2004-2005
Obituary
Your Joking
New Beginnings
The Queen Arrives
A Meaning to Life
1933
The Cross-1900
For the Older Perso.
What's Your Hobby
AJourney of a Lifetime
Rowing the Atlantic
St Albans School
Sacred Heart and St Benedict- New Schools
Confirmation 2005
A Tale or Two to Tell
Redcar Cemetery
New Housing Estate
Sacred Heart School
Local Heroes
Out and About
Where does your Street Name come from?
Bishop Terry
My Old Banger
Post Cards
New Hospital
Do You Remember When?----
Human Fertililisation and Embryoligy Bill
A Dream Come True
Personal Memories of Times Gone By
St Williams Dormanstown
St Augustine Redcar
Sacred Heart Redcar
Monument or Folly
Where Are They Now
Coronation St Remembered
End of a Tradition
Message Board
Guestbook
Event Calendar
Mail Form
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St Albans RC Church Redcar
 | St Albans, Yew Tree Ave, Redcar.
Tel 01642 485901 |
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Directions
St Albans RC Church,Redcar is situated at the junction of Low Farm Drive and Yew Tree Avenue.If you are travelling from East Cleveland, along the A174, take a right turn at Kirkleatham Roundabout signposted Redcar.Travel along and take the third turning on the right into West Dyke Rd. Immediately after, take the first left into Yew Tree Avenue.St Albans RC Church is at the bottom of this road on your right.
If you are travelling from Middlesbrough along the A174, turn left at the Kirkleatham Roundabout, signposted Redcar and follow as above.
If you are travelling along the Trunk Rd,towards Redcar, turn right at the first set of Traffic Lights, outside Cowie's Garage, into Kirkleatham Lane. Travel along Kirkleatham Lane and take the fifth turning on the left, into West Dyke Road.Take the next left into Yew Tree Avenue. St Albans RC Church is on the right at the bottom of the road.
OPENING
Before St Albans opened in 1972 the Congregation went to Mass at either,St Williams Dormanstown or Sacred Heart in Redcar.
Fr Philip Kiely was appointed Parish Priest to oversee the building of the new church and school. In the meantime Sunday Mass was held in the Lakes Social Club in Westmorland Rd, at 11.00am. Tragically Fr Phil,as he was known, was involved in a serious accident in Ireland and when he recovered was unable to carry out his duties and had to retire.Fr Peter Ryan took the reins and by this time we had St Alban's Primary and Junior School open on land opposite,and also St Josephs Primary School on Mersey Rd where Masses were said in the Hall till St Albans Church was built. It proved to be a short stay for Fr Ryan before Fr Louis Collingwood took over for the opening in 1972 by Bishop Gerard McLean.Fr Louis now Canon still lives in Redcar, in retirement and says Mass at St Williams.Click on St Albans in the Past |
Mass Times and Whats On
 | Fr Roger Guiver
MASS TIMES
Week ending- Saturday 12th February 2010
Fifth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Sunday 7th February 2010
9.00am-People of the Parish (Edward Leneghan)
11.00am- People of the Parish.(In Thankgiving)
Monday 8th- 9.00am-Mass of the Day (Special Intention)
Tuesday- 9th-7.00pm- Mass of the Day (Edward and Elizabeth Cunleen)
Wednesday-10th Feast of Scholastica(Special Intention)
Thursday- 11th- 9.00am- Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes (Special Intention)
Friday- 12th 9.00am Mass of the Day (Special Intention)
Saturday- 13th-10.00am Mass for Our Lady (Special Intention)
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Rosary after Morning Mass or Eucharistic Service
Confessions-After Saturday Mass or on request.
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Sick-Please remember in your prayers- Tess Wombwell, Margaret Paul, Gladys Lambert(nee Robbins),Paula Littlefair, Rita Dooley, Steven Todd,Josie Jackson and Olive Sweet.
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St Albans would like to thank Norman Evans MBE for donating £100 towards the heating of the Church.
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Aid to the Church in Need appeal will take place at both Masses on Sunday 14th February.
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Love in Truth-This will the Bishop's theme throughout the Diocese during Lent.
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St Albans would like to thank all their Parishioners who took out a covenant on their contributions to the Church.This has raised £3222.09 in tax funds.
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The total amount collected from the APF boxes in peoples homes amounted to £1040 for 2009.Grateful thanks to those who take the boxes and to those who collect on a regular basis.
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There will be an appeal at both Masses next Sunday for Aid to the Church in Need.
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There will be a Lenten Day of Reflection on Saturday 27th February in St Patricks Church Thornaby.All Welcome.
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The Annual 'Pope Idol' talent show will be held in Middlesbrough Theatre on March 13th.
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The repairs to the Presbytery are now complete.Please see Fr Roger in advance if you require a meeting place.
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First Holy Communion 2010 will take place on Saturday 15th May 2010
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Confirmation 2010 will take place on Thursday 20th May in Sacred Heart Church
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The booklet Bible Alive is available this month free.Further monthly copies cost £1.60
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The Knights of St Columba urgently need used spectacles.Please see Notice Board.
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Overheard two ladies talking- one said she ordered two drinks at a bar and was charged nine pound.She said to the barmaid "What!!! nine pound,nine pound, I don't know where you get your cheek from, even Dick Turpin wore a mask"
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As you notice when visiting St Albans the beautiful flower arrangement that are around the altar.These are done by one person and we would be very grateful if another person with a flair for flower arranging could come forward to help.
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There will be a short period of reflection after the readings as requested by the Bishop's Conference
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The Parish Priest was visiting the children in School and telling them the story of the Nativity.He asked the class what was the name of the baby?.One little lad put his hand up and said "Wayne, Father"."How on Earth did you come up with that name?"asked the Priest "Cos at assembly this morning we sang 'A Wayne in a manger,no crib for a bed"said the little boy.
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The children Liturgy will be held in the Sacristy at 11.00am Mass.
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True Story-On Radio 4 Weather Forecast,the announcer was giving Shipping Forecasts from weather ships.Some are manned and some automatic.The list went like this-Fairo Stormy,Dogger Bank, Gale force 6 increasing slowly,SCILLY AUTOMATIC etc.
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The Catholic Times and Universe are on sale at the back of the Church.Priced £1
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Care not Killing,there are leaflets at the back of the Church about proposed legislation and the thoughts of the Bishop's Conference.
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The views expressed on this website are not necessarily the views of the Clergy or Congregation of St Albans RC Church.As owner and builder of this site it has never been my intention to offend,in fact quite the opposite, as on the jokes page where I have stuck rigidly to good taste.After a complaint about an article on the 'Lets Have A Debate' section,this has now been omitted.If you are offended by any of the site's content please e-mail gedffleming@hotmail.com.Thanks for visiting-Ged Fleming
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Photographs of past events ie Weddings Christenings etc required for this website's St Albans in the Past.Use the guest book or e-mail gedffleming@hotmail.com. Remember it is your website.
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In the 1950's Fr Patrick Payton brought his round the World Evangelist Rally in devotion to Our Lady to Ayresome Park in Middlesbrough.Unfortunately there is very little information around(see crusade in the left column).I would be very grateful if anyone could send photo's of this event. Please send them and any stories to gedffleming@hotmail.com Thanks.ing
Update-This section has been updated and I hope you find it interesting
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Adoption-Catholic Care continues to seek adoptive parents for children four years and older,family groups three to five years and babies with Down Syndrome. For further details please either visit their website www.catholic-care.org.uk .
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Mass Stipends- Please write name and date on envelope and hand to Fr Roger.
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Wit and Wisdom- Marry young, so the grandparents can look after the children.
Silence is the great art of conversation.
Keep your face towards the sunshine and the shadows will fall behind.
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A father and son paid a visit to their local cemetery and were reading some of the Epitaphs on the headstone.One said "Here Lies William ---- A Politician Good and True" and the son turned to the father and said"Are there two people buried here".
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Volunteers are also required to help clean the Church.
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We also require people to assist at Mass and at Funerals as doormen and women to act as ushers.
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100 Club- This is a very good way of raising funds and out of 200 codes available 91 are vacant.If you wish to join the fee is 50pence a week. Application forms can be found attached to your newsletter.Please support.
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Doormen and women are needed to welcome people into Church and hand out Mass sheets etc.
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Readers are to be congratulated on their very high standard.
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The Catholic Mother is available at the back of the Church.
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Wit and Wisdom-Adam and Eve were the happiest people on Earth because they had no Mother-in-law.
In spite of everything,I still believe there are good people in the World-Ann Frank
Where ever people live there is a story to be told.
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The Yorkshire Brethren Fund.When a Priest retires or is sick he receives support from this fund.Membership and to contribute to this fund is �30.Five Masses will be offered and a share in over 400 Masses offered by Priest Member
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Flower Fund-A box is at the back of the Church for donations towards the cost of Altar Flowers.
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From Yorkshire-A Yorkshireman wanted an inscription on his wife's gravestone to read 'She Was Thine'.The engraver mistakenly 'She Was Thin'.The man wrote saying they had missed out the 'E'.
The next effort read--- 'E She Was Thin'
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Thanks to Fr Roger for that one.If you have any jokes you want to share e-mail me at the usual address.Thanks Ged.
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If this gave you a laugh there are many more when you click on 'Your Joking'in the left hand column
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Comment from a Parishioner, "Our Priests sermons always have a happy ending.The moment they've ended everyone is happy" Thanks to Fr Roger for that one.
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A teacher was telling the children the value of prayer.One little girl, hands joined,head bowed prayed silently,"Dear God if you look at me next Sunday at Mass,I will show you my new shoes"
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True Story.
While I was researching the Stockton and Middlesbrough Gazette of 1874 in Redcar Library I came across this gem which I thought was very funny but it was not meant to be.
A Jeremy Diddler in Stockton.
A Caution to the Public,- A man of about 40, 5 feet seven tall, fair complexion with sandy hair, whiskers and a mustache dressed in a fine brown cloth coat, black cloth trousers and vest and wears a pair of long overalls, also a soft Billy cock hat, has been diddling the natives. The routine is as follows, he goes to a respectable house and states he is a clerk or a draughtsman at some large works, obtains food and lodgings, then states his boxes are at the railway station and that he is just a shilling short of paying the carriage, borrowing all he can and then absconding. This morning he got ten shillings and never returned it. Needless to say that this fellow is an impostor and the public would do well to be on the alert and if he should turn up to inform the police.
1874 Middlesbrough Gazette.
The term Jeremy Diddler seems to be Cockney slang for fiddler but it was wrote in a very serious manner.
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A Greengrocer opened a new shop and wanted it blessed so he invited his local Priest.The Priest came and said "Lettuce pray"
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Inside St Albans
| St Albans's Altar. |  |
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Inside St Albans
| Another view of St Albans. |  |
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Opening Plaque
| The Plaque commemorating the opening of St Albans in 1972 by Bishop McLean. |  |
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The Millennium Cross
 | The Millennium Cross was donated by my family in memory of my wife Margaret,who passed away on 8th May 2000. The Crucifix was supplied by St Bernard's Monastery in Leicestershire and the plinth and inscription were provided by Stanway and Garnett of Redcar. We are grateful to Fr Ryan, to the suppliers and erectors for all their help and co-operation. The Crucifix was blessed in a ceremony on 7th December 2000 by Fr Ryan and again by His Lordship Bishop John Crawley in 2001.
At 3.00pm on Good Friday 2006 the Passion was recited in St Albans with Fr Roger unwrapping the Crucifix wrapped in a purple cloth ceremoniously while walking down the aisle.The Crucifix used was the one illustrated above and for me and my family it was a very emotional experience.This was the first time it had been taken down and used for the benefit of the Congregation in such a practical way. |
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Our Lady Chapel
 | | Our Lady Chapel |
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Stations Of The Cross
 | | The Twelfth Station 'JESUS DIES' |
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St Albans Altar
 | | Another View |
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A Journey of a Lifetime
Please visit the story in the left hand column 'A Journey of a Lifetime'.You may find it very interesting. |
St Albans 1970
 | | St Albans under construction 1970(photogtaphs kindly provided by St Albans School) |
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Another View
 | | Construction continues. |
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Presbytery
 | | Presbytery being built 1970 (note the roof trusses waiting to be erected) |
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A New Era
 | | Bishop John cuts the turf to start the building of St Benedicts and Sacred Heart Schools off Mersey Rd |
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Sponsored Walk
 | | Pictured are members of St Albans UCM from left are,Margaret Horner,Stella Parvin,Fr Bluett,Pat Fulton,Chris Tierney and Cath Collins. |
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The First Snow
 | | Photo taken after the first snowfall on November 25th 2005 on Kirkleatham Lane |
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January Sunrise over St Albans
 | | The photo was taken on the 13th January 2006 overlooking St Albans Church. |
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Altar With Messages for Lent
 | | The colourful posters depicting Lent around the Altar |
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Quiet Reflection
 | | Bishop John,Fr Roger and other Priests,with the Congregation,in quiet reflection after Communion. |
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Easter Celebrations
 | | The Altar decorated for Easter with a tableau as centre piece |
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Christmas Eve in St Albans 2006
 | | The Church was packed for the celebration of the first Mass of Christmas.The schoolchildren sang Carols and read readings of the Nativity before Mass began.The Mass concluded with Fr Roger placing the baby Jesus in the Crib. |
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Rainbow
 | | Photo taken over Redcar on December 30th 2006 |
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Altar Flower Arrangements
 | | The Altar was beautifully decorated at Christmas with floral arrangements by Mrs Angela Guiver. |
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Eclipse of the Moon 3rd March 2007
 | | It is quite rare for us to see a Lunar Eclipse mostly because of cloud cover but on 3rd of March it was clear |
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Going Going
 | | Patience is the order of the day |
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Gone
 | | Something to behold,a Total Eclipse 10.40 3rd March 2007.Photo's taken on Hambleton Ave. |
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Easter Altar
 | | The Altar on Easter Sunday 2007. |
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Thanks for your support
Once again I have to thank you for your continued support as we notch up 8,000 hits.I would appreciate more feedback either good or bad.Please leave a comment in the guestbook.If you have any articles that would be of interest,school photo's,Communion days in the past,football team photo's or wedding photo's please e-mail them to gedffleming@hotmail.com.Thanks again-Ged |
Volunteers
Since I started the cemetery group in 2004,I have been amazed at the dedication shown by volunteers, not only in our group but throughout Teesside.Some of these people are in their seventies,eighties and nineties and they will spend hours neatly sewing for example, lavender bags or making dresses for dolls to be sold on stalls throughout the area.They can be seen in all weathers collecting for their charity and witnessing this is a very humbling experience and one for which we should always be very grateful.One can only imagine the time and effort taken by these people sometimes unfortunately for little reward. |
The Virgin Mary (Like you have never seen her before)
 A good friend of mine was a teacher in a local boys school in the 1940's.Christmas was coming around and the Nativity play was being rehearsed.Mary and Joseph had been chosen and they threw themselves into the part with great gusto and enthusiasm.Just before the nativity was about to be performed all the boys went down with ringworm.The Doctor and nurse came to the school and having shaved the lads heads they painted on a purple dye, as was the normal treatment.The show must go on of course, so Mary and Joseph went on stage,Mary in her (his) long dress and Joseph in his flowing garments,each with a BALLACLAVA HELMET. |
St Albans Welcomes New Bishop
 The Holy Father has appointed Monsignor Terence Patrick Drainey as Seventh Bishop of Middlesbrough Diocese.Congratulations from St Albans Parish.
On his acceptance the Bishop Elect writes-
I give thanks to Almighty God for all his gifts and blessings,especialy the gift os Priestly Ministry.I personally thank the Holy Father,Pope Benedict XV1,for appointing me to Middlesbrough and for allowing me to serve the Church as a Bishop here.All my life as a Priest I have only wanted to be a pastor serving the Lord and his people wherever the church has sent me.So I sincerely rejoice to be given the ministry of pastor of this great diocese,rich in lives faithful to the Gospel throughout history and to this present day.
As your bishop elect,I come amongst you as a brother who,from personal experience,knows the need we all have of God's gracious mercy and forgiveness.The Gospel that we bring must proclaim God's invinate love and pardon.Even in darkness we trust that Christ will be our light and as we wait in joyful hope for the coming of our Saviour,we can face all disappointments,broken promises and and even overcone despair.It is in this joyful hope that I look forward to serving the people of the Diocese of Middlesbrough as soon as I can.Particularly I would like to meet the clergy of the Docese at the earliest oppertunity for they are my helpers and councillors.
I realise that I tread on holy ground here where many great and saintly ones have gone before me.How can I not remember that especially today,the feast of St Hilda of Whitby.I am very proud and privalaged to follow a good and kindly pastoe like Bishop John Crowley.In my present position as President of Ushaw College I worked closely with him and was a frequent recipient of his patient,generous wisdom |
Norman Evans MBE
 | | Everyone in St Albans are very pleased to welcome Norman back to playing the organ at 11.00am Sunday Mass.He has not been too well lately but we are pleased he is feeling much better.All the very best Norman,the people of Redcar also miss you on the High St and I am sure wish you well |
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Christmas 2007 Celebrations
 | | Once again the church was packed for the first Mass of Christmas and the Altar was decorated beautifully and the Crib was once again the focal point of the whole celebration.A large Christmas tree added to the decoration and after the Church had just undergone a complete repainting it looked stunning.Thanks to everyone who has made this possible. |
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The Crib
 | | As this is the focal point of our celebrations it always takes up a prominent place in the Church and the children love to visit. |
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The Morning Mass on Christmas Day
 | | This again was well attended but the early evening Mass attracts families and is finished in plenty of time for the children to be tucked up in bed before Father Christmas comes.Fr Roger saying the concluding prayers. |
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Bishop Drainey Visits Redcar Cemetery
 | | The weather forcast for Wednesday 23rd April was not too promising,overcast with showers .The days before turned out to be sunny and we were hoping for the same for when our new Bishop,Bishop Terence Drainey kindly paid us a visit to Redcar Cemetery to pray at and bless the baby memorial.The 'Friends of Redcar Cemetery' are very grateful to Bishop Drainey for taking time out of his busy schedule and sparing a few minutes to attend what to us was a very emotional event.The full story is in the Bishop Terry section on the left hand side. |
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Recent Visitor
 | | Where did we see this beautiful creature.Click on Redcar Cemetery in the left hand column |
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Fr Brian Nicholson
 | | Fr Brian Nicholson has retired as Parish Priest in St Augustine's Parish Redcar.He will be sadly missed.He has also retired from holding the post of spiritual leader of the Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage where he made many friends.The congregation of St Albans wish him a long,happy and healthy retirement. |
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Fr John Lumley
St Albans welcomes Fr John Lumley as the new Parish Priest of St Augustines in Redcar.We would like to thank him for saying Mass on Sunday while Fr Roger is on holiday. |
What Was That?
 Picture the scene,three babies were quiet (unusual in our Church)during a very solemn part of the 11.00am Mass when all of a sudden without warning a large picture of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour came crashing down with a great thud and smashed.The congregation were perplexed as to what had happened except for those who saw it fall.Fr Roger carried on as nothing had happened but the babies were startled by the noise which set them crying.Soon peace was restored but the picture to quote a famous cowboy 'bit the dust' |
Miracles Do Happen
After just a week the picture of Our Lady of Perpetual Succur is back in it's rightful place. |
Norman Evans MBE in Lourdes
 | | Trawling through the Middlesbrough Diocese Lourdes Pilgramage in 2006 I came across a photograph of Norman with Bishop John and a bevy of musicians.The light seems to be shining on Norman. |
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12,000 Visitors
 We may need a bottle of Champagne as we celebrate 12,000 visitors to this site.Although it has built up slowly since 2004 we still don't get enough feedback but never the less I will keep you informed of what is happening in the Parish and maybe we can extend this to include all Parishes in Redcar.So if you have any information from Sacred Heart,St Williams or St Augustine's let me know and we can add sections.Ideas would include the Coffee Morning in Zetland Park Methodist Church last Saturday to raise funds for St Augustine's Church.E-mail gedffleming@hotmail.com with any information.Thanks-Ged (site builder) |
Christmas 2008
 | | Once again the Church was beautifully decorated ready for the Christmas celebrations.As usual the First Mass of Christmas on Christmas Eve was packed out.Carols were sung from 6.30pm and the placing of the Baby Jesus in the crib is always a highlight of the Mass that followed. |
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The Decorated Altar
 | | Here we see the Altar with the church lights off and just a spotlight. |
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The Christmas Tree.
 | | It appears that this is now a tradition in our church,started by Fr Pat Bluett.It certainly fits the scene. |
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Post A Comment
The reason I have written the previous comments is to generate debate and comments,so if you have a different viewpoint,let me know at the usual e-mail address. |
St Albans School
When St Albans school was closing,I met with the Headteacher asking for photo's for this site,to build up the history of the school.Mr O'Callaghan was kind enough to give me a large batch saying they would only be threw out because nobody wanted them.In the left hand column is the site for St Albans school and a number of photo's have been posted.If you do not want your photo featured,please e-mail gedffleming@hotmail.com. |
Norman Evans MBE
As you may know Norman has written an autobiography called 'We May as Well Dance'.This is an excellent book where he tells his story 'warts and all'.Click on Norman Evans in the left hand column. |
Thousands Say Farewell
 | | I don't think the South Gare has witnessed so many people saying farewell to the French Aircraft Carrier.There were thousands down the breakwater which caused a traffic jam stretching a couple of miles.After the ship passed it was an hour and a half before I could be on my way.Somebody should have had the foresight to set up a mobile hot drinks van, they would have made a fortune.Seriously this posed a great deal of questions.I have been in touch with the owners of the land making up the South Gare and they have informed me that NOBODY should be on the Gare at anytime because it is private land.This area as we have known, attracts thousands every year with fishing permits and areas like 'Paddy's Hole'.All interested parties should be involved when deciding what should happen when the 'Tall Ships' come to Hartlepool in 2010.A repeat of last Sunday could be disasterous |
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The Warrenby Hotel
 | | Over many years this hotel has seen many functions,weddings, christenings after funeral receptions,dart matches billiards and snooker matches.It was also a stopping off point for workers from the nearby steelworks.Over the last few years it has been built up as a car repair shop.The owner was busy working on a car when a tremendous explosion brought the ceiling and brickwork down.The owner had a very lucky escape by crawling out of the back door.He suffered cuts to his face and back injuries as brickwork came crashing down.What caused this you may wonder?.A juggernaut was reversing and collided with the front of the garage.The main damage was caused when the lorry was pulled clear. |
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Before the Lorry Hit
 | | Here we see the Warrenby Hotel before the incident.Photo courtesy of Stephen McCulloch |
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Unveiling of Two Plaques
 | | The 'Friends of Redcar Cemetery' of which I have been Chairman of for the past four years have been very busy refurbishing a run down section of the cemetery.Over £7.000 has been raised through fundraising and grants to reastablish two 'half moon' sections in the middle cemetery.On old maps of the area it shows two half moon sections,over the years one half moon has been taken out to allow mowing to be made easier.The other had been grassed over.Unfortunately cars were parking on this area so making great ruts in the soil.The committee decided with the help and permission of the Local Authority to reinstate these to their former glory.So with your help in fundraising we set about this task with great enthusiasm.We now have two beautiful areas that not only enhance the area but have been dedicated with stones and plaques dedicated to our seafaring tradition.One plaque is dedicated to all those who have lost their lives at sea from Redcar and surrounding area and the other plaque is dedicated to all those buried in the cemetery who risked their lives over many years manning the lifeboats and saving lives at sea often in very difficult circumstances.A march and unveiling ceramony with a Blessing from local Clergy will take place on Sunday 24th May at 2.00pm.All are welcome to witness this memorable occasion. |
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New Half Moon
| The photo above shows one half moon before it's refurbishment and the photo below shows the transformation, something we are very proud of and it was with your help this was achieved.The area opposite has had the same makeover,this time starting from just a grassed area after consulting old maps.More information can be found on Redcar Cemetery in the left hand column. |  |
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Eggy Bread
Brian Blessed was advertising on the radio recently a well known fast food chain and mentioned 'eggy bread'.I must admit I had never heard of such a thing and have had to ask around.Any recepies please. |
Sri Lankan Wedding
 | | Saturday 7th March was another red letter day for St Albans when a couple from Luton decided to marry in St Albans where family and friends have settled for a number of years.It was a very colourful affair when Edman Paul Emodesh and Sameeda Santhamariyadas were married .Fr Roger and Fr Eugene officiated. Congratulations from all the Parishioners of St Albans. |
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Latin Mass
At the recent Requiem Mass for Sydney Stocking in St Albans, the family requested part of the Mass be said in Latin.Fr Roger did very well taking the congregation through it and it amazed me how many in the congregation knew the responses.It was difficult to follow after over forty years.Well done Fr Roger. |
New Website
The Sacred Heart Church has started a new website under the Communigate banner.Log onto www.communigate.co.uk/ne/sacredheartrcchurchredcar.The website builder is Ann Thomas.Congratulations and the best of luck. |
The Millenium Cross
The Millenium Cross which I have featured above was donated by my family in memory of my wife Margaret and was again used for the 'Venoration of the Cross'after the Passion of Our Lord was told by members of the Congregation. |
The Modern Tabernacle
When going round Churches in the area,one thing stands out, the bare Tabernacle.How did this sneak in? Who decided this was best and when? I remarked our Tabernacle looked like a cross between a hot water boiler and a Tombola drum.The reverance has gone out of the whole experience of genuflecting as we know.This as we know is God's House and should be decorated so.Somehow the mystery has been crually shattered by someone's whim.Lets get back to tradition and not let half baked ideas get a hold. |
The Crowning of Our Lady
 | | Here we see the statue of Our Lady complete with her crown during the month of May. |
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First Holy Communion 2009
The sun shone when six of our children made their First Holy Communion on Saturday 16th May.Once again the children were beautifully dressed,the girls in their white dresses and veils and the boys in their white shirts and dark trousers.St Albans are very grateful to the Parishioners who prepared these children and their parents for this very important time in their lives.
The children making their First Communion were-
Bobby Butters.
Mary Holdsworth.
Jasmin Kelly.
Jennifer Peter.
Kyle Poulson.
Flynn Rountree
Congratulations from all in St Albans Parish. |
Cemetery Group Win Award
 | Left to Right Back Row-Lucy Pretty,Colin and Cam Nertney(St Augustines)Eric Pretty,Joan Buckley and Margaret Grainger.
Front Row-Vera Robinson MBE,Joyce Dowding and Dot Ahmed.
The 'Friends of Redcar Cemetery' were very pleased to have won the 'Volunteer Group of the Year'sponsored by the new College and organised by the RVDA.We were presented with a trophy by the Principle of the College at a ceremony in Guisbrough Hall where twenty seven volunteer groups attended.We were also presented with a certificate by our MP Vera Baird QC. |
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Tony Mowbray
 | | Congratulations to Tony Mowbray,a Redcar lad on being appointed as Manager of Celtic FC.He attended Mass in St Albans when Fr Bill Ryan was Parish Priest after taking instructions when he met his late wife Bernadette in Glasgow whilst playing for Celtic.Having friends who are fanatic Celtic supporters,when they play their rivals Rangers the atmosphere in the pubs and clubs is deafening with partisan songs.We wish him well. |
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Bishop Terry's Visit
 | | The congregation at both Masses welcomed Bishop Terry who officiated and preached today.A welcome cup of tea provided by Angela was enjoyed in the Presbytery afterwards which gave the congregation a chance to meet the Bishop for a chat.Fr Roger meanwhile was busy with a Christening after the 11am Mass. |
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Another Photo
 | | Bishop Terry preaching during his visit on Sunday 28th June 2009 |
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Gerry's Requiem Mass
It was good to see Fr Dan O'Neil at Gerry McFadden's funeral.He spoke about Gerry and Gerry's late wife Kathleen attending Mass every morning when he was Parish Priest for over fourteen years in St Albans and had a great affection for the people.Fr Roger spoke of Gerry ringing him to ask for Communion that day.Fr Roger said "Yes Gerry but do you realise it is five thirty in the morning".It appears Gerry did not want to miss his taking of the Sacrament.St Albans is very grateful to the 'Helping Hands Group' where Gerry was a volunteer for providing refreshments after the service and also Newcommon Methodist Church for the use of the room. |
Mumbai Calling
I was having a new window fitted and the flowering shrubs had invaded the path under the window so I set about cutting them back.In my enthusiasm I must of trod on a cable bringing my telephone service into my home resulting in my phone being cut off,or was it the rain.As luck would have it my mobile needed charging but the Internet was working.I e-mailed my supplier and received a reply from India.Thanks Raj the engineer is on his way.Modern communications. |
Sunken Graves
After the terrential rain last week visitors to loved ones buried in the new section of the cemetery were very upset at the devastation caused.The whole area was a mess with graves half full of soil, and flower vases and flowers scattered all over the place.Unfortunately this is not the first time this has happened and everyone concerned with the upkeep of the cemetery needs to tackle this problem so as not to add to the grief already uppermost in people who have lost loved ones recently. |
14,000 Hits
We have reached another milestone.14,000 hits since 2004.I hope you enjoy the site and will keep logging on.Any comments good or bad would be greatly appreciated.Please use the guestbook.Cheers Ged. |
It Could only Happen to Me
When my eldest son came to visit with his wife I warned them that the bulb in the toilet was not fixed in right because the bayonet holder on one side was broke but it worked ok.Nothing happened during their stay thank God.Doing my chores today with little rubber gloves(!) and toilet brush the bulb parted company with the holder,fell on my head and landed in the bowl.Remind me to change the bulb holder if I can get the shade off. |
The Relics of St Terese
 | | The whole Diocese can be justifiably pleased and honoured to play host to the relics of St Terese in the Cathedral in Middlesbrough.From what we have read it was a huge success and something of a coup for our Diosece to welcome this unique event.A video has been made which can be downloaded of the relics arriving at the Cathedral.Two children were plucked from the crowd to carry posies of flowers behind the casket,something they will remember all their lives. |
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Mo Mowlam Remembered
 | | On Friday 23rd October a large group of people including local dignateries came together at the boating lake to unveil a fantastic mosaic to our former MP Mo Mowlam.Full story can be found on 'Out and About' in the left hand column. |
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Chef's Jargon
When we were growing up Sunday lunch consisted of a nice piece of beef with yorkshires,cabbage, cauli, maybe sprouts but only if they were in season, peas and carrots (why didn't we ever have broccoli?).For seconds we would have rhubarb and custard.Now you would need a degree in culinary jargon,nothing is plain and simple.Here is a menu which can be found in a typical pub restaurant leading up to Christmas-
Starter-
Rich Black Pudding with LARDONS of smoked bacon,smothered in a wild mushroom marsala wine reduction.
or
Duck and Orange PARFAIT with caramelised balsamic onion with chutney and crispy Braschetta.
Main
Slow cooked CONFIT of Duck Leg in a sticky Plum and Ginger Glaze.
Sweet
Nutty Pear and FRANGIPANE Tart with clotted cream Ice Cream.
Wot no Bisto gravy.
These are mainly French in origin |
Remembrance Day
 | Despite the pouring rain many people gathered round the Cenotaph in Coatham Rd to remember the fallen not only in two world wars but recent conflicts such as the Korean war,the Falklands war.the war in Iraq and Afghanistan.Eric Houden was march marshal who also acted as MC.He introduced the new Vicar of Coatham Rev Alison Phillipson who is also the newly appointed Chaplain for the Merchant Navy Ass,and other Armed Forces Ass in the area.She led us in prayer before our MP Vera Baird QC read a passage from scripture.In turn the Mayor Coun Brian Briggs and the leader of the Council Coun George Dunning also read passages.The Police Band played the 'Last Post' and a minutes silence was observed.A great many organisations then placed wreaths around the Cenotaph.The march then reassembled for a march past taken by the Mayor
'At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember them'
'When you go home tell them we gave our today for your tomorrow' |
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Carnage
As the time approaches for us to remember when hostilities came to an end in WW1,the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, we look back on the futility and sheer stupidity of both politicians and Generals in the war zone.The carnage that they witnessed at the battle of the Somme must of made them realize that they had made a grave mistake but their tactics never altered.It appears that lessons have not been learnt where our soldiers are on foot patrol in a minefield and it is obvious the jeeps they ride in don't offer much protection from roadside bombs.Brave bomb disposal men have been killed defusing these simple but deadly devices of which there are thousands. |
Christmas Wish Tree
 | Chiltern Mills staff visiting the Wish Tree in 2008
Once again the 'Friends of Redcar Cemetery' are
erecting a 'Wish Tree' in Redcar Central Library from 2nd December.This was kindly donated by Chiltern Mills of Redcar.Tags can be obtained from the Central Library,Laburnum Rd Library and from Chiltern Mills for a donation.All monies raised will be used for the refurbishment of Redcar Cemetery.Our thanks go to all Library staff and the staff of Chiltern Mills.Our thanks also go to Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council staff for erecting the tree.
Update-£74 was donated with the purchase of wish tree tags.These will be buried in the large roundabout in the new section. |
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Steeple Cladding
 | | Over the last few years cracks in the cladding of St Alban's Church's steeple have been causing concern.Now we find this has got much worse with great chunks falling off during recent windy weather.There is now an urgent need to rectify these problems. |
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St Peters School South Bank
So it seems as though it's all over, the politicians and bureaucracy have managed to destroy a brilliant school that Hitler tried but failed.This decision will have a far reaching effect on us here in Redcar.The Sacred Heart School will be the focal point for ALL Catholic pupils from a catchment area that stretches from Ormesby to Staithes.Can we cope?.We have anough problems on Mersey Rd at present without another influx of coaches and private cars using this area.If this goes ahead then the traffic lights at the junction of Corporation Rd and Mersey Rd will have to change in favour of Mersey Rd rather than catering for traffic on Corporation Rd as at present.I can see chaos in and around this school and it is very surprising that the people who make all these decisions are not personally affected by these changes. |
All the Best
Happy New 2010 to everyone |
Drastic Editing
In the past I have used the St Alban's site to include personal social comments which some may of found amusing but others may feel it is the wrong place.I have therfore took out many comments and left those in which readers may find interesting.I have left in comments on St Peters School South Bank because it may affect us.Please leave any comments in the guest book and keep logging on.Thanks-Ged -Site Builder. |
Local Steel Industry
After thirty four years in the Steel Industry on Teesside I have started a new column telling my story.You will find this informative and amusing but with a fair slice of danger. |
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