St. Ambrose

Introduction

St Ambrose Church in Warlingham, in the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton, was completed in 1958 to the design of architect Bernard Moss.

History

In 1936, a regular Sunday Mass began in Warlingham after the Diocese purchased a house with a garden school-room attached. In 1942, Warlingham became a separate mission under the care of Father William Evans.

Around 1973, the original church and two Victorian houses were demolished to make way for a new presbytery and car parking. In 1994/1995, the parish hall was extended to its present size, with funding from the sale of St Edward's Church at Woldingham. Architect Bernard Moss put forward a more modest design for the new church at a more affordable price.

Parish life

The parish serves the communities of Oxted, Warlingham, Woldingham, Tatsfield and Hurst Green. The parish runs a Ukraine Support Group offering help to Ukrainians and their host families in the Tandridge area.

The parish has a Social Committee that arranges social events including celebrations, outings, walks, quizzes, dances and bazaars. The parish maintains ecumenical relationships within Churches Together groups in Oxted and Warlingham. The parish has a Finance Committee that advises the Parish Priest on financial matters and includes members who attend St Ambrose Church. Confirmation is normally held once a year in May or June.

Sacraments and pastoral care

Baptism for infants includes a short preparation course for the parents, with the baptism itself usually taking place on a Saturday or during Sunday Mass. First holy confession and communion is offered to those aged 7 or older, typically celebrated on the first weekend of May. Couples seeking marriage at St Ambrose Church must give at least one year's notice and attend a number of preparation sessions.