Our first-ever Summer Festival was nothing short of a triumph of joy, faith, and fellowship. Held in the heart of our parish, the event brought together parishioners from Seaford, Newhaven, and Peacehaven, young and old, families and individuals, long-time locals and members of our vibrant international communities. The sunshine may have helped, but it was the warmth of the people that truly made the day.
Live music set the tone from the start, with unforgettable performances from Hearts and Voices and an inspiring set by Gary and his band, featuring our very own Claire as lead singer. Their energy and talent lit up the afternoon and had everyone smiling, clapping, and even a little dancing. A heartfelt thank you to them all for offering their gifts so generously!
There were games, delicious food, children’s activities, and plenty of time to simply be together. This wasn’t just an event, it was a glimpse of what the Church is called to be: the People of God, gathered in joy, united in love, and overflowing with the grace of the Eucharist.
As the great Catholic theologian Hans Urs von Balthasar reminds us; the glory of the Eucharist radiates outward, it demands to be expressed, to overflow into culture, into community, into celebration.
That’s exactly what our Summer Festival became: an overflow of the Eucharist, a visible and tangible sign of the beauty and goodness of our Catholic faith, lived and shared.
Thank you to everyone who helped organise the day, volunteered their time, donated goods, and simply showed up with open hearts. May this be the first of many such celebrations, as we continue building a parish rooted in prayer, joy, and welcome.
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer… with glad and generous hearts.” (Acts 2:42,46)
