Saint Charles' Church, Paisley

Introduction

Saint Charles' Church in Paisley serves a parish established in 1897 in the Charleston area of the town. The parish was placed under the patronage of Saint Charles Borromeo (1538–1584).

History

The first Saint Charles' Church opened on Union Street on 7 November 1897. In 1931 the parish moved to a larger building on South Campbell Street, where it remained for over fifty years. In 1986 the parish returned to its original home on Union Street with the opening of the present church building. The church's design forms a courtyard enclosure, bringing together the church, hall, and presbytery in one cohesive space.

Architecture and furnishings

The altar is constructed from marble originally used for the altar at the Mass celebrated by Pope Saint John Paul II in Bellahouston Park in 1982. The lectern and baptismal font were also fashioned from the same marble. Architect J. G. Quigley designed the new church. Inside, the building is flooded with natural light from above.

The Sacred Heart stained-glass window, once above the old High Altar, was relocated and shines beside the Baptismal Font. The Tabernacle is the golden chest that sits behind the Altar. A statue of St Charles Borromeo stands outside the church.

Music and liturgy

A group of volunteers prepare the Liturgy of the Word of the Sunday Mass, helping children understand and participate, and the children join the congregation at the Offertory. The RCIA Group welcomes and assists those preparing to be received into the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil.

Parish life

The parish hall hosts a drop-in for a cuppa and chat, and a Men's Group also meets there. Rainbows and Brownies groups take place in the Church Hall. Highland Dancing takes place in the Church Hall. The parish offers a family opportunity to mingle with a children's corner featuring books, games, arts and crafts and a snack. Parents seeking baptism are invited to a short preparation session with other parents.