All Saints

Introduction

A Mass centre was opened in Thirsk in 1839, marking the beginning of regular Catholic worship in the town.

History

The church's origins trace back to the early eighteenth century family chapel of St Anne at Kilvington Hall, seat of the Meynell family. Bishop Cornthwaite directed the building of the present church, with the foundation stone laid on 26 August 1866. The interior features an open timbered roof, Minton encaustic tiles, and stained glass windows. Baptism enquiries are directed to the parish clergy.

Architecture and furnishings

The church was enriched by donations including the Stations of the Cross and memorial stained glass windows. The twentieth century brought wooden benches featuring the carved mouse motif of Mr Thompson of Kilburn.

The present church was built in 1866-7 with architect WA Bourne. The church is built in the early English style with a nave 64 ft by 25 ft and an apsidal chancel 19 ft by 17 ft.

Music and liturgy

The community celebrates the Eucharist at Mass, with all welcome to worship. Parishioners are invited to pray in devotion to Our Blessed Mother Mary through the All Saints Rosary Group. The parish runs a Scripture Study Group, Housebound Visiting Group, Parish Finance Committee, Children's Liturgy Group, and RCIA Group.