St. Dominic, Waddon

Introduction

The church was completed in two years and opened on 21st August 1961. Plans for the acquisition of a plot of land for the future church began in 1934 but were delayed by planning difficulties and local objections and put on hold by World War 2.

History

Mass centres were formed in Selsdon (1921), Purley (1931), Waddon (1933) and Sanderstead (1942). In 1948 a nissen hut was erected and the satellite Saint Dominic's had a permanent home. The debt for the church and the priest's residence was paid off by 1970. Father D. Sheehy served as parish priest from 1973 to 1983. Father J. Daly served as parish priest from 1983 to 2001.

Parish life

The Justice, Peace & Integrity of Creation group meets every second Tuesday in the parish room. The parish has a line dancing group. A volunteer church cleaning team cleans the interior weekly. The parish has an altar decoration team.

The parish primary school serves families of the parish as well as those of St Gertrude's, South Croydon and Holy Family Sanderstead. The parish covers most of Waddon and some of Croydon. The parish has a Parish Pastoral Council.

Sacraments and pastoral care

Baptisms are celebrated on Sundays after some preparation sessions. Children are prepared to receive their First Holy Communion from the age of 7. Confirmation is conferred on anyone in Year 8 and above after a period of suitable preparation. Couples wishing to marry in the parish must give 6 months' notice to the parish priest regarding their papers and preparation.

Visiting

The 119 bus runs between Bromley North and Croydon Airport, with the nearest stops at Crowley Crescent or Bramley Hill. The parish publishes a newsletter for up-to-date news. The church offers spiritual resources including daily readings, the Order of Mass, Pray as you go, 10 minutes with Jesus, and The Way of the Cross.