St. Francis of Assisi

Introduction

The church is built of rock-faced blond sandstone with a steeply pitched slate roof.

Architecture and furnishings

The Sacred Heart and Lady side chapels are heavily ornamented in varying colours of marble, with inlay of mosaic. The eastern gable features a large traceried window, a niche with a statue of Saint Bridget, and a double-doorway entry. The nave is separated from the aisles by arcades of octagonal pillars, and there is an open timber roof. Stained glass was added to the chapel windows in the 1940s by the John Hardman Studios.

Parish life

The parish serves Baillieston and the surrounding communities through the churches of St Bridget’s and St Francis of Assisi. The Parish of St Ambrose, Baillieston was founded on Pentecost Sunday, 15th May 2016, and consists of St Bridget’s Church and St Francis of Assisi Church.

The Hall Committee manages two parish halls that serve as a base for local community groups and private functions. The Children’s Liturgy Group shares the Word of God with younger members of the congregation during Mass. Faith Sharing Groups meet during Lent and Advent to reflect on scriptures and share faith. Eucharistic Ministers assist the priest in distributing Holy Communion and take the sacrament to the sick and housebound.

Welcome Ministry members greet people arriving at the church, especially first-time visitors. Grounds Ministry members look after the large gardens and grounds of the parish. The parish is supported by more than 120 volunteers.

Sacraments and pastoral care

The parish is blessed with many baptisms of both children and adults, and those interested in arranging a baptism or in becoming Catholic are asked to contact the parish office. Confession is available at any time in the parish by appointment with the parish priest or before the vigil mass.