Our Lady of Lourdes – Mountain Ash

Introduction

Our Lady of Lourdes in Mountain Ash, within the Archdiocese of Cardiff-Menevia, is distinguished by its current church, which opened in 1899 after its foundation stone was laid in 1897.

History

Construction of the new church in Mountain Ash was paid for by a weekly conscription from parishioners. The parish was amalgamated with St Joseph, Aberdare and St Therese of Lisieux, Hirwaun, to form the Parish of Mary Immaculate.

Parish life

The church is one of four churches in the Parish of Mary Immaculate and the Parish of St Thomas. The parish offers the Rite of Initiation of Adults (or Children) for those becoming Catholic.

Children in Catholic schools are informed when they may prepare for First Holy Communion, while others register with the parish office. The parish works with families to prepare children for their first celebration of Reconciliation, usually in Lent.

Confirmation takes place once a year during Mass when the bishop visits the parish. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is celebrated in each church at set times, which are published in the parish newsletter and on the Community Web Pages. Adults interested in being baptised and confirmed should start by joining the Sunday congregation and then talking to the parish priest.