Church of Saint Monica, Palmers Green

Introduction

The Church of Saint Monica in Palmers Green is dedicated to Saint Monica, a dedication almost unique in the Archdiocese of Westminster. Cardinal Bourne opened the church on 4 May 1914.

History

Father Thomas Heditch was appointed rector of the new parish of Palmers Green in 1910. In early 1911 the parish moved to Hazelwood House in Green Lanes, a larger house opposite Saint John's Church. Cardinal Bourne laid the foundation stone of the new church on 20 June 1913.

Architecture and furnishings

The stained-glass windows, three on the south wall and two on the north, were made by F. Mayer of Munich and London. The Stations of the Cross are carved in oak and were originally framed. In 1984 an anonymous donor gave a carpet for the centre aisle and paid for sanding and sealing the parquet block floor. The parish has a children's choir that sings at the Vigil Mass one Saturday of the month.

Parish life

About 20 altar servers from years 4 to 13 and beyond serve the parish. The parish has Cubs, Scouts, Brownies, and Guides. A Bereavement Visiting Group offers support in the parish. The parish has a Caritas St Joseph’s group for special and educational needs.

The parish has a Missio Red Box scheme, with red boxes available from the porch. A Missio group supports missions through red boxes. A Dads Hub offers a weekly group for fathers.

Sacraments and pastoral care

Specially trained catechists prepare children with special needs for sacraments, visiting the child and family at home to assess needs. Adult Confirmation for those aged 18 or over is normally completed through the R.C.I.A. programme. Couples eligible to marry at St Monica's by residency are asked to give at least six months' notice and take part in a marriage preparation programme. Members of the Parish Team and Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist regularly bring Holy Communion to people at home.