St. Bridget

Introduction

The church is typical of the Early Decorated Gothic style favoured by Pugin & Pugin in Glasgow.

History

In June 1872 Father George McBrearty acquired an acre of land at Baillieston known as Broadlees with a stable, which was converted into a chapel-school. In 1879 Father Peter Terken came to Baillieston. Under Father Terken, the stable church was replaced by 1880, and the present Presbytery was added two years later. The parish of St Ambrose, Baillieston was founded on Pentecost Sunday, 15th May 2016, consisting of St Bridget's and St Francis of Assisi churches.

Architecture and furnishings

The church is built of rock-faced blond sandstone with a steeply pitched slate roof. The eastern gable features a very large traceried window, a niche with a statue of Saint Bridget, and a double-doorway entry. The interior has arcades of octagonal pillars separating the nave from the aisles, and an open timber roof. The Sacred Heart and Lady side chapels are heavily ornamented in varying colours of marble with mosaic inlay.

Stained glass was added to the chapel windows in the 1940s by the John Hardman Studios. The chancel is dominated by a sculpture of the risen Christ, above which is an original Rose Window with stained glass depicting the Creation. The initial altar with reredos was replaced following the Second Vatican Council, and the altar was brought forward for Mass facing the congregation. An elaborate tower with spire to the North-East was intended but never built; the church later gained a belfry and an organ.

Parish life

The parish serves Baillieston and the surrounding communities through the churches of St Bridget’s and St Francis of Assisi. The parish is made possible by the generosity of more than 120 volunteers.

The parish has a Children’s Liturgy Group that explains the scriptures to younger members of the congregation during Mass. Faith Sharing Groups meet during Lent and Advent to reflect on the scriptures and share personal faith. The parish has a Welcome Ministry that greets regular attenders and first-time visitors. Eucharistic Ministers assist the priest in distributing Holy Communion and take the sacrament to the sick and housebound.

The parish has a Hall Committee that operates both parish halls, which serve as a base for local community groups and private functions. The parish has a Grounds Ministry that looks after the large gardens and grounds. The parish has Readers who read from the Old and New Testament during Mass. The parish has Sacristans who ensure that Mass and other services are ready for the priest and deacon.

The parish has Church Cleaners who keep the churches in good order for activities. The parish holds an annual Mass for the Ambrosian Society.

Sacraments and pastoral care

Confession is available at any time by appointment with the parish priest. Children receive Holy Eucharist in primary 4. The parish welcomes many baptisms of children and adults.