St. Bernadette, Whitefield

Introduction

On 7th April 1953, Whitefield Council agreed to the transfer of approximately 4 acres of land to the Diocese of Salford for erecting a Church, School and Presbytery.

History

On 18th September 1974, Fr Lee died following a heart attack and was buried in St Mary’s Cemetery Moston. In October 2003, the Bishop decided that St Bernadette’s parish would amalgamate with St Michael’s Whitefield at an unspecified future date, with two churches, two schools and one priest. In 1960, a Parochial Chalice was purchased made from parishioners’ offerings of old gold and silver amounting to a value of £80. A new Parish Priest took office on 15th September 1997.

The Parish Hall and Social Club was extended in November 1970 at a cost of £6,361. The Manchester Chorale gave a concert in the church on 29th June 2002, the first time the building had been used in this way.

Architecture and furnishings

Reynolds and Scott designed the church, which was built by Thomas Campion and Son for a total contract of £22,446.10s. Permission for the church's erection was granted on 21st July 1954, with only the first stage permitted and a plan for future extension approved. Bishop T Holland blessed the new Sanctuary and side chapels on 17th February 1965.

Music and liturgy

The parish music ministry includes musicians and singers who lead music at all three weekend Masses, special services, and parish events. Mass music ranges from traditional organ-led pieces to performances with keyboards, strings, and wind instruments. The music group rehearses either before or after services, with extra rehearsals for larger occasions, especially around Easter and Christmas. New singers and musicians are always welcome to join the music ministry without audition.

Altar servers assist the priest in the celebration of Mass so that the liturgy can be conducted with grace and reverence. The role of an altar server includes preparing the altar, carrying the processional cross, lighting candles, holding books, assisting with the offertory and preparation of bread and wine, and carrying incense. Boys and girls who have made their First Holy Communion can become altar servers after preparation and training. Readers proclaim the Word of God at Sunday and weekday services.

In July 1985, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament started on Saturdays. On 6th December 2002, a Jubilee Mass of Thanksgiving for the 50 years of St Bernadette’s Parish was presided at by a bishop. On 22nd July 2003, the Parish celebrated the Silver Jubilee of Ordination to the Priesthood of a priest. On 22nd June 1977, the Parish celebrated the Silver Jubilee of Ordination of a priest.

From 30th April to 14th May 1978, a Parish Mission was led by Passionist priests. From 24th February to 2nd March 2002, a week of guided prayer was led by Salford Prayer Guides, with 24 parishioners taking part in preparation for the parish Golden Jubilee. On 1st January 2002, the parish entered its Golden Jubilee year.

Parish life

The parish Impact Youth Group welcomes 10 to 14-year-olds. The parish SVP group provides practical help to the elderly, sick and housebound, the bereaved and others with special needs. The parish runs a food bank supporting the needy in the local community.

The parish has a large team of Eucharistic Ministers. The parish runs a Baptism Preparation Programme supporting parents.

The parish offers a Sacramental Programme for children in Year 3 preparing for First Confession and First Holy Communion. Year 3 pupils from both schools walk together in friendship and prayer as they prepare for the Sacraments. The parish has a Parish Pastoral Team working with the parish priest.

Sacraments and pastoral care

Children prepare for First Holy Communion over several months with support from a team of parent and parishioner catechists. Adults interested in learning about the Catholic faith can join the parish Journey in Faith Programme.

The parish Marriage Preparation Course helps couples plan their wedding. Couples are required by the Diocese of Salford to give at least six months notice of their wedding.