St. Columba, Selsdon

Introduction

On 15 June 2002, a permanent deacon was ordained and immediately appointed to St Columba's parish by the archbishop.

Parish life

The 9th Selsdon Guides returned from their annual summer camp at Heyswood Campsite in Cobham. Flame 2019 was held in March at Wembley Arena. Ahotokurom was set up in 1983 near Cape Coast in Ghana as a centre of Christian hospitality for the disabled and disadvantaged. St Columba's adopted Ahotokurom as a Parish Charity some years ago.

The Catenian Association, a Catholic men's group, meets monthly. The parish has very active sections of guiding.

Guides meet on Friday at Saint Columba's Church Hall. The parish has a Bereavement Support group.

All Masses are live-streamed on YouTube. A professional video film has been made of the church and can be viewed.

Sacraments and pastoral care

Baptisms are celebrated on demand, usually on Sundays, and parents must receive instruction beforehand. Confirmation is usually held in May or June, with instruction beginning the preceding autumn. At least six months' notice is required for marriage, and attendance at a diocesan marriage preparation course is essential. Anointing of the Sick is available on demand. Two parishioners are members of the Southwark Diocesan Marriage & Family Life team, coordinating for the South West Pastoral Area of 65 parishes.