Church of The Immaculate Heart of Mary, Hayes

Introduction

The parish was founded on 20th April 1912 with the arrival of three Claretian Missionaries from Spain.

History

The first Mass was said on the feast of Saint Anselm in a house called 'East View' in Station Road. The Missionaries purchased Botwell House with 4½ acres of ground, moving in September 1912. The Poor Servants of the Mother of God began their work in Hayes with 145 boys and girls on 25th August 1931. Our Lady & Saint Anselm Secondary School welcomed its first pupils in 1956.

Music and liturgy

The parish is a member-church of 'Christians Together in Hayes & Harlington' and plays a full part in planning and executing local ecumenical activities.

Parish life

The Rainbows have been part of the parish since November 1997. A Paper Stall in the church porch sells Catholic and Irish newspapers before and after weekend Masses.

The Legion of Mary visits the aged, sick and lonely in their homes, hospitals and residences. The Legion of Mary runs the paper stall in the church porch at weekends.

Readers proclaim the Word of God in the liturgical assembly. The 10th Hayes Scout Troop participates in District Scout events and holds an annual summer camp. Liturgy of the Word provides a liturgy adapted to young children.

The Church Shop sells rosaries, bibles, missals, prayer books and statues. R.E. is provided for children who do not attend Catholic Schools in fortnightly sessions. Baptism preparation for parents and godparents of infants consists of two sessions. Confirmation preparation is fortnightly with about 12 sessions.

Marriage preparation consists of a series of three evenings. Catechetical sessions are offered for children and adults with special educational needs. Approximately 50 catechists are needed each year for catechetical work.

The HCPT group takes children aged 7 to 18 on an annual pilgrimage to Lourdes at Easter. The Flower Group organises Flower Festivals.

First Communion and First Reconciliation preparation runs from approximately October to May with about 15 sessions. Teas and coffees are served as well as a variety of cakes and pastries. The Finance Committee prepares annual budgets and advises the Parish Council.