The Oratory of St. Catherine of Siena is a constituent ministry of the Independent Catholic Christian Church (www.inclusive catholics.com). Its primary focus is on prayer and making the sacraments available to all. The Holy Eucharist is regularly celebrated on Boston's North Shore in Beverly, Massachusetts. The Oratory focuses on prayer for Shalom, peace, for individuals, the world, and the church
. The Hebrew word “Shalom” means “peace,” but it is a peace that is far more than just the absence of conflict. It more fully means “wholeness,” which includes health in all of its forms—physical and mental. Mass is often offered for those who lack that Shalom, that peace, and since night is often a challenging time for those who are ill, troubled, or distressed, a night-time eucharist is one of the hallmarks of the Oratory. If you would like to be included in the prayers during one of these masses, please let me know either online or privately, and a candle will be lit for you during the service. The Oratory also has a special concern for the "Shalom" of Jerusalem, praying and acting for a just and secure resolution of the conflict there and in the Middle East in general. The sacraments are an integral part of healing and peace, and one of the goals of the Oratory is to make them available for all baptized Christians, regardless of denomination, race, sexual orientation, gender identity or presentation, or any other label that divides us. Baptism, marriage, confession, and anointing for healing are open to all. One of the hallmarks of the Independent Catholic Christian Church is that we are "joyously sacramental,” and the chaplain welcomes requests for ministry. Sandra Hutchinson at [email protected] for more information, or if you would like to receive the sacraments. If you are in the Boston/North Shore area and would like to talk, I’d be glad to set up a phone time. I’m also available for e-mail conversations. God bless you.
