St. Anne Line, South Woodford

Introduction

Saint Anne Line in South Woodford, within the Diocese of Brentwood, was consecrated on 17th May.

History

The consecration ceremony included the bishop blessing the building with holy water, sprinkling the walls and the people. The consecration included the burning of incense on the altar and throughout the church. The consecration included the lighting of candles on the altar and walls, symbolizing Christ as the light of the world. The first Mass was celebrated on the newly consecrated altar, completing the rite.

Music and liturgy

The consecration ceremony included scripture readings proclaimed similar to a Mass, focusing on holiness, God's dwelling place, and the community of believers.

Parish life

The parish confirmation programme involves young people in parish events and local community volunteering. The parish runs a baptism course of three weekly sessions which parents must attend before a child is baptised.

The parish runs marriage preparation courses three times a year, with about eight sessions. On the feast of Saint Anne Line, the parish holds a bring-and-share meal. The parish promotes the diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes from Friday 18th to Friday 25th July 2025.