Our Lady of Lourdes

Introduction

In 2001, the present church opened in place of the original tin church, a simple modern building with a kitchen and meeting space in the narthex.

History

Following reorganisation in 1998, Sacred Heart in Low Westwood closed and Our Lady of Lourdes and St Joseph's Highfield were ministered by one priest resident at Highfield. In 2012, further re-organisation saw Our Lady of Lourdes served by a priest resident at Crawcrook. On 18 May 2026, solar panels were installed on the church to reduce its carbon footprint.

Parish life

The parish holds an annual Summer Fayre in June and a Christmas Fayre at the end of November, working with other church and social groups. The parish runs a collection of items for local food banks and supports other charities locally and abroad. Young people serve as readers, welcomers, assistants to the sacristan and run their own stall at the summer fair. A group has been set up for parents and children to share ideas and plan children's liturgies.

Two parishioners represent the parish on the Parish Counsel for the four Catholic parishes in the Derwent Valley. The parish is actively involved in a process of discernment about its Mission and the future with the whole Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle. Baptism preparation involves attending one preparation session to understand the ceremony and the commitments of the Christian life.