London: Sunday Mass and gathering for young adults first posted 30 April 2004

LONDON - first posted 30 April 2004 - 283 words

Launched in Spring 2003, First Sunday is a monthly Mass run by and for Young Adults on the first Sunday of every month at Farm Street Jesuit church, near Berkeley Square in central London.

First Sunday began as a response to a desire among certain young adults (20s & 30s) to gather regularly for a liturgy that is nourishing and prayerful, in the Ignatian tradition.

The celebrant is usually a Jesuit; the participants can be young Jesuit Alumni/ae, members of Young Adult CLC, current and former Jesuit Volunteers (JVC) and others who feel drawn to this style of liturgy and gathering.

Dave Stewart SJ, director of the YBJA writes: "Sometimes we have people from overseas who are studying or working in London, ranging from former Jesuit students from the USA and Australia to current students from Notre Dame University's London campus."

He said: "We gather at 19.15 on each First Sunday for some time of quiet prayer before the actual liturgy at 19.30; the office is open from 5pm for preparation, coffee & fellowship.

"After Mass, a fair number of us are usually free to go for a quiet pint nearby before going home to, as one participant put it, "prepare for the worst that Monday has to throw at us"! Planning takes place on the preceding Thursday in our Farm Street offices. It would be great to have a few more planners, especially musicians, but anyone can help. All young adults welcome!"

The celebrant this Sunday, will be Gerry Gallen SJ, Senior Chaplain at Wimbledon College, who has recently returned from studies in Boston, USA.

For more information visit: www.ybja.org/