St. Clare

Introduction

Saint Clare's Church in Bradford, within the Diocese of Leeds, was completed and dedicated on 12th December 1956. The parish of Saint Clare was formed in 1944 from St Mary's Parish in Bradford.

History

The first St Clare's was a former Congregationalist chapel, a tin hut in Charnwood Road, purchased by Mr John Farley. A large house called 'Ashfield' in five acres at Fagley was bought, and in September 1930 a new five classroom infant and junior school was opened. In 2006, a re-organisation instigated by the Bishop of Leeds led to the closure of churches and amalgamation of parishes, including St Brendan's Parish merged with St Clare's. The first church was blessed and dedicated by a bishop and became a chapel-of-ease served from St Mary's. St Clare's school hall became the Mass Centre and the tin hut chapel in Charnwood Road was relinquished.

Parish life

Children in Year 3 are prepared for First Reconciliation, Year 4 for First Holy Communion, and Confirmation is administered in Year 6. Courses of preparation for the sacraments are offered through the Parish and details are made known through the parish bulletin and both parish schools.

Two primary schools serve the parish: St Clare's and St Brendan's. The Catholic Secondary School and Sixth Form which serves Bradford is St Bede's & St Joseph's Catholic College.

The church is situated on the corner of Moorside Road and Fagley Road. There is a car park entrance on Moorside Road.

Sacraments and pastoral care

Couples wishing to marry at St Clare's must contact the Parish Priest at least six months before the proposed wedding date. Funerals take place at St Clare's, usually organised by the funeral director.