Our Lady of Dolours, Servite Priory

Introduction

Our Lady of Dolours, Servite Priory in Salford, within the Diocese of Salford, is distinguished by its current church, which was built in 1964 and consecrated in 1990.

History

The Servite Priory was moved into in March 1924. A temporary building was opened on Sunday, June 16, 1924, in the presence of Bishop Casartelli. In March 1927, a chapel-of-ease dedicated to Saint Philip Benizi was opened in Northallerton Road. In 1935, the adjoining property of "Fairhill" was acquired and used as a hall.

Music and liturgy

Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist have been a feature of parish life for many years, helping with the distribution of Communion and taking Holy Communion to the sick and housebound. The parish organises activity for CAFOD, supports ecumenical partnership, assists with the Parish International Mass, coordinates writing letters to prisoners of conscience and promotes actions to tackle climate change. Music is central to worship, including singing or playing an instrument, and the parish is always looking for new talent to support this vital ministry. A rota for readers is organised for Vigil/Sunday Masses and other special feasts and holidays throughout the Church's year.

Parish life

The parish has a Faith and Justice Group open to all, which supports charities, organises events and lobbies on justice issues. The parish has strong links with St Philip's R.C. Primary and St Monica's R.C. High School, sharing and supporting each other through liturgical services, social events and education. The parish has a ministry for altar servers, with a short training course provided for those who have received First Holy Communion. A group meets most Thursday evenings to discuss the Sunday Gospel of the coming week.

Preparation for the Sacraments of Baptism, First Holy Communion, Confirmation and Marriage is supported by courses that take place throughout the year. The gardens around the church require a dedicated team of volunteers to maintain and upkeep them. The parish runs a Repository Shop in the church porch, opened by a volunteer after Mass. The parish office is the main point of contact for enquiries, with phone and door reception mainly staffed by volunteers.

The parish's main recurring event is its Summer Fair. The parish centre hosts many parish activities and social events and may be hired for functions.