Sacred Heart

Introduction

Sacred Heart Church in Bingley, in the Diocese of Leeds, was opened on 11 May 1880 by Bishop Cornthwaite. The church is a two-storey building with the church above and a mixed school below.

History

In about 1869, Father Walker began a Mass centre in Bingley, first at the Fleece Hotel and later in a building he purchased in York Street. In 1973, for the centenary, the church was completely renovated and redecorated, the sanctuary remodelled, and the main window behind the altar installed. A new organ was donated to the church about 1981. The 125th anniversary of Sacred Heart parish was celebrated in May 2005.

In 2016 a plan to refurbish Sacred Heart church was produced, including access for people with disabilities. The refurbishment included an extension for a meeting room and toilet facilities and the removal of the organ loft/choir gallery. The church re-opened for weekend services in May 2018 after the refurbishment. The chapel is not in any particular style of architecture, but it is well, if plainly built. The parish takes part in ecumenical groups in which people from all local churches work together for the community's good.

Music and liturgy

Father Parkin, from Heckmondwike, took over the parish until June 1896, and during his time, church, school and presbytery were repaired, the church beautified and an organ with its gallery installed. A Book of Remembrance for year-round display of deceased loved ones is kept by the parish, with copies in each of the two churches.