More precisely: 'it's off! What?  Preston Guild 2012. In the third week of Guild Year and in the Octave of Prayer for Christian Unity,  2,000 people from the vast majority of churches in and around Preston gathered at the Guild Hall to pray and praise and worship God together.

No, it's not the beginning of the Grand National but rather the beginning of this year's Confirmation Programme. The boys and girls pictured have, after discussion with their parents, each registered for the course at a Parents' Meeting; they have also 'enrolled' for the course during Sunday Morning Mass.

Our Bishop asks for our feedback following the pastoral letter read at all Masses today, 1st January 2012. The letter can be read in full by following this link and feedback can be left on the Lancaster Diocese webiste.

Good King Wenceslas was no where to be seen on this particular feast of Stephen. However, about half of St. Clare's company of Altar Servers were about, indeed, about their Father's business, serving Holy Mass, supported by family and friends and the clergy of the parish.