The John Bradburne Memorial Society

As the world pauses on Christmas Eve, Christians everywhere prepare their hearts to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. This sacred night is more than a moment of anticipation; it is a time for reflection, gratitude, and renewal of faith. The soft glow of candles, the singing of carols, and the retelling of the nativity story remind us of the greatest gift given to humanity—God’s love made manifest in Jesus. In the quiet of this holy night, let us set our hearts on the hope and joy that the Saviour brings. Let us remember that the beauty of Christmas lies not only in the manger scene but also in the transformative power of Christ’s love in our lives. As we gather with loved ones, we are called to reflect on how we can clothe ourselves with grace, mirroring the humility and purity of the Christ Child. The following poem, written in 1957 by John Bradburne captures the essence of this prayerful longing: O Blessed Jesus, bless us all That we may reach Thy Festival Clad in Thy wedding clothes of grace, And see the beauty of Thy face. Let these words inspire us to prepare not just for the joy of Christmas morning but for the ultimate celebration—when we will behold the beauty of Christ face to face. Merry Christmas Eve, and may the blessings of Christ be with you always.

Celebrations from the Mutemwa Christmas party yesterday. Thank you to all who helped make this possible.

As the fourth candle of the Advent wreath is lit, the final week of preparation for the coming of Christ is upon us. The flame represents love, the profound gift of God, who sent His only Son into the world to redeem us. This Sunday invites us to reflect deeply on the Blessed Virgin Mary’s faith and her "yes" to God's will. Her saying “Let it be done to me according to your word"—is a model of trust and obedience for all of us as we await the birth of Jesus. Today, we are reminded of the Gospel of Luke, where the angel Gabriel announces the miraculous news to Mary. Her response reflects a heart ready to receive God's love and to become the vessel of salvation for the world. In these final days of Advent, let us focus on preparing a place for Christ in our hearts and homes. Let us extend the love of God to those around us, especially to the lonely, the suffering, and the marginalised. Like Mary, may we trust in the Lord's promises and welcome Him with open hearts. Heavenly Father, As we approach the celebration of Christ's birth, fill our hearts with Your divine love. Like Mary, may we embrace Your will with trust and humility. Prepare our hearts to welcome Your Son, Jesus Christ, so that His light may shine through us to the world. Grant us the grace to love selflessly, to serve faithfully, and to live in the hope of Your promises. Come, Lord Jesus, dwell among us, and transform our lives with Your presence. Amen.

The Mutemwa Leprosy Care Centre Christmas Party is in full swing today! A heartfelt thank you to Nyarai and the team for making it all possible. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas!

Greensleaves, 1974 by John Bradburne Within a Tabernacle small The great Creator makes His hall Thence coming, as from Bethlehem, To make His home in hearts of men. And that is why a child, less tall Than foxgloves by the garden-wall, Can be so close to Heaven's King Who makes Himself so small a thing. Advent is a season of preparation for the celebration of Christ’s birth and a time to reflect on His continual presence. The poem invites readers to contemplate the paradox of God’s greatness.

Today, December 18th: A Day to Reflect on Love and Service On this day, we remember John Bradburne, the remarkable lay missionary who devoted his life to the care of leprosy patients at Mutemwa Leprosy Care Centre in Zimbabwe. His love for the marginalised and unwavering faith have left an enduring legacy of compassion and hope. As we journey through the final days of Advent, John Bradburne’s life reminds us of the true meaning of this season: preparing our hearts to receive Christ by serving those in need. Just as he saw the face of Jesus in the suffering, we are called to bring light and love to others, especially the forgotten and lonely. This Advent, may we open our hearts to the vulnerable and reflect on how we can share Christ’s love with the world. "It is not what we do but how much love we put into it that matters." Let’s pray for the continued mission of Mutemwa and for the cause of John Bradburne’s beatification. May his example guide us to live lives of faith, humility, and charity. #AdventHope #JohnBradburne #Mutemwa #CatholicFaith #LoveInAction

The Last Three? 1969 by John Bradburne A prophet is a person speaking out What God particularly wants to say, Though barely knows the man what he's about He is a trumpet for the Lord to play.

Today, we celebrate the Third Sunday of Advent, a day of joy and hope as we draw closer to the birth of Christ. The rose candle on the Advent wreath reminds us to "Rejoice in the Lord always" (Philippians 4:4) as we await the light of Christ breaking into our world. As we reflect on this joy, let us also remember the mission of love and service. We lift up a special prayer for Mutemwa and for the soul of John Bradburne, who devoted his life to serving the vulnerable and bringing them God’s peace. Prayer: Heavenly Father, On this Sunday, we thank You for the joy of Your promise and the hope we find in Your Son. We pray for the Mutemwa community, that it may continue to be a place of Your mercy and healing. Through the intercession of John Bradburne, inspire us to serve with humility and love, following his example of faith and devotion. As we journey through Advent, prepare our hearts to welcome Christ with joy. Fill us with Your grace to be lights in the darkness and instruments of Your peace. Through Christ our Lord, Amen. "What we do for the least of our brothers and sisters, we do for Him." (Matthew 25:40)

Happy Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe! Today, we honour the Blessed Virgin Mary, who appeared to Saint Juan Diego in 1531 with a message of love, hope, and maternal care. Reflect on her comforting words: "Listen and let it penetrate your heart... Do not be troubled or weighed down with grief. Do not fear any illness, anxiety, or pain. Am I not here, who am your Mother? Are you not under my shadow and protection? Am I not your fountain of life? Are you not in the folds of my mantle?" Let us entrust ourselves to her maternal protection, remembering her powerful intercession and unconditional love. Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us! #FeastOfOurLadyOfGuadalupe #CatholicFaith #HopeAndProtection

Joyful, Sorrowful, Glorious, 1977 by John Bradburne To scan through Holy Scripture is to make An X-ray of God's plan, embodied not Completely till His Incarnation.