Holy Family

Introduction

Holy Family Church in Southport hosted a National Heritage Open Afternoon with displays on the history of the church and its parishioners. A canon from Holy Family celebrated 50 years of priesthood.

Architecture and furnishings

The bell's cast iron headstock is lettered 'M. BYRNE'S PATENT ROTARY MOUNTINGS' on each side, enabling the bell to be rotated on its mounting to spread wear. The bronze bell in Holy Family church, Southport is 43 inches in diameter and weighs approximately 15 cwt (750 kgs).

Parish life

On Saturday 15th August 2020 the bell was rung 75 times to mark the 75th anniversary of the end of World War 2 (also VJ day). In 1999, two Mass services were televised from Holy Family Church by Anglia TV.

The Restored Lives course, run over six weeks, one evening per week, offers support for the divorced and separated. Baptism preparation takes place once a month by appointment at Holy Family.

The parish has a growing number of housebound, sick, or care home residents who appreciate visits for prayer or Holy Communion, with visits done in pairs with Eucharistic Ministers. The parish prays for its own schools of Holy Family and Christ the King. Children's books are available in the porch for families to use during Mass.

Regular events

The parish holds indoor bowling sessions in the parish hall on Fridays. The parish supports CAFOD Family Fast Day with talks and retiring collections after Masses. The church bell is rung before Mass and with two rings of three at the Consecration.