Our Lady of Ransom, Rayleigh

Introduction

The church of Our Lady of Ransom in Rayleigh was solemnly blessed and opened on Monday, September 24th, the feast of Our Lady of Ransom. The church was consecrated on June 1st 1967. Its High Altar was the first permanent free standing one in the diocese.

History

In July 1933 a site for a church on London Hill was purchased together with an adjoining house that served as a temporary Presbytery until July 1970. On April 22nd 1934, the foundation stone of the church of Our Lady of Ransom was laid. In 1963, work recommenced on Our Lady of Ransom Church, building the East aisle, baptistry and sacristy and enlarging the narthex. In 1965, the sanctuary was constructed and the High Altar and Blessed Sacrament Altars were erected.

On the day the Second Vatican Council closed, December 8th 1965, the first Mass in the completed church was celebrated. In April 2015, the parish bade farewell to its parish priest, who was fondly remembered for his humility and great service during his ten years’ tenure. The Bethany Room, virtually an extension to Our Lady Of Ransom Church, was opened in Easter 1998 replacing St Teresa’s Hall.

Parish life

The parish has a Children's Choir in formation, with interest sought via email. The parish has a Parish Garden Project, with a new garden behind the presbytery opened on 4th July 2010.

Regular events

Each Harvest, the parish takes up a collection for CAFOD's Family Fast Day appeal. The parish supports Caritas Brentwood's autumn gatherings that explore Catholic Social Teaching in action.