Saint Bernard

Introduction

Saint Bernard in Lingfield, within the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton, traces its origins to 1941, when the first parish priest, Father James Barraud, took responsibility for the Catholic and military congregation. The original wooden church was later repurposed as a church hall. In 2006, work on the existing hall and sacristy was completed.

Architecture and furnishings

The Altar stands in the Sanctuary at the front, which is the East end of the church. The church has one main aisle and two side aisles. Seating is provided for 130 people, with a maximum capacity of 200. The choir and organ loft are located at the rear of the church.

The Lady Chapel on the left is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is used for smaller services and quiet reflection. St Bernard's Chapel on the right is used for quiet reflection and Confession by appointment with the Priest in attendance. The lighting is designed to be low-glare. The left-hand side of the church can be very bright due to sunlight through high windows.

Raised metal floor strips about 1.5 cm high are present at the entrance and foyer doors. A spotlit crucifix casts shadows often taken to be the thieves crucified with Jesus. The Baptismal font is situated beneath the Organ loft. Votive candles are located in the Lady Chapel and next to the Sacred Heart Statue.

Parish life

Incense is usually used at special services such as funerals or High Mass. Flowers are usually present with a natural scent. Candles are present with a very slight smell. The priest may sprinkle holy water over the congregation, usually for renewal of baptismal promises and at Easter Mass.

A live-streamed service is available for those unable to attend in person. Parishioners continue to accept responsibilities through St Bernard's Forum.

Saint Bernard's is a Fairtrade church, selling Fairtrade goods at regular stalls and using Fairtrade tea, coffee and sugar at after-Mass socials. Saint Bernard's belongs to the Lingfield and Dormansland Fairtrade Zone, working with other denominations, schools and community groups. Two trained bereavement supporters in the parish offer support to those grieving. The parish has a Rosary Group.

The parish has a Choir and Music Ministry. Margaret Vasey compiled and safe kept Saint Bernard's archives over many years. After the service, refreshments are served from a kitchen off the Hall, and a chat with others is welcome. A Welcomer greets visitors and offers a hymn book, an order of Mass card, and a weekly newsletter, with large print versions available.

Some of the congregation sing, which is encouraged but optional. The Hall next to the church is usually quiet during the service and may be used as needed.

The parish holds a monthly lunch club for social gatherings. The parish organises Spring and Autumn Charity Feasts fundraising for local charities.

Sacraments and pastoral care

Confirmation preparation is offered to young people of age Year 10 and above. Marriage arrangements should be made at least 12 months before the marriage date.

Visiting

You are welcome to sit anywhere. There is no designated quiet room inside the church. You enter through double doors into a foyer, then through either of two sets of double doors into the church.