Church of the English Martyrs, Tuffley

Introduction

A wooden hut was blessed by Father Roche on 13 July 1947 and dedicated to the English Martyrs.

History

The first Mass was said in the Northfield Hotel on 14 March 1943. In February 1965 work started on a permanent hall to replace the hut; the first Mass was said in the new hall in January 1966. The church in Tuffley Lane was completed in 1980 and the first Mass was celebrated on 29 June 1980.

Music and liturgy

The choir at English Martyrs welcomes new singers and instrumentalists. Children's Liturgy is an established feature of life at English Martyrs. The church has regular Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament.

Parish life

After Sunday Mass, refreshments are served in the parish room at English Martyrs. The parish hall at English Martyrs is spacious and new, and parishioners may hire it for private events. The parish hall at English Martyrs is available for general booking by businesses, clubs and organisations. An Alpha course is hosted at English Martyrs in autumn 2026, running on Wednesday evenings from 23 September 2026.

Regular events

A programme of social events runs during the year, including quizzes, fetes, coffee mornings and musical evenings. Summer Fetes were held at the church in 2022 and 2023.

Sacraments and pastoral care

The parishes prepare young people in school year 9 or above and under 18 for Confirmation every other year. The parishes offer the opportunity for private confession, with times given in the newsletter. OCIA is for adults over 18 who wish to be baptised, received into full communion, or complete their sacraments, and is open to all adults regardless of prior baptism. Those who wish to receive the Sacrament of the Sick should contact the parish priest.

Children's Liturgy at English Martyrs is led by Sue Knight and assisted by parents. Sacristans at English Martyrs prepare the altar and sanctuary for Mass, and Marisa is the contact for involvement.

Visiting

The church is well signed from the dual carriageway and has excellent parking facilities in the grounds, which are tended by parishioners. On 4th May 1535, three Carthusian monks, including Abbot John Houghton, were put to death at Tyburn, the first of many martyrs. The classic 1966 film A Man for All Seasons depicts St Thomas More's last years. Details about the saints in the reredos at English Martyrs can be downloaded. Details of the Catholic English Martyrs associated with the City of Gloucester can be downloaded.