St. John the Baptist, Camborne

Introduction

Saint John the Baptist in Camborne reached completion on 26 May 1859, when Bishop Vaughan, second bishop of Plymouth, solemnly dedicated it under the patronage of Saint John the Baptist. Windows throughout the church were smashed and the statue of Our Lady was sent down the hill when the church was attacked on 16 April during the Camborne Riot of April 1882.

History

Thirty-six candidates received confirmation in September 1852 from Bishop Errington, first Bishop of Plymouth, in the hay-loft chapel over Mr Pike’s coach-house. On 6 September 1857 Bishop Vaughan gave confirmation to 39 people in the loft chapel and recalled Father Mansfield for a Chapter vacancy at Plymouth. A plot of 71 feet by 155 feet in Camborne Vean (now Trevu Road) was offered for a new church on 10 December 1857 by barrister Charles Andrew Reynolds of Trevenson House, Pool. Bishop Vaughan laid the new church’s foundation stone on 24 June 1858.

The plans came from Mr Freeman of Plymouth; Mr Harris, a Camborne builder, gained the contract for the nave and aisles, and Mr Paull was the foreman. Repairs at the church were funded through a town collection, and the residue of that collection paid for a new statue of Our Lady. Wheelchair access and guide-dog access are both provided.

Sacraments and pastoral care

Children in year 3 or above (7+ years) can begin the First Communion and Confession course after October half-term. Preparation for marriage comprises 5 one-hour sessions and includes an introduction to natural family planning. At least 6 months’ notice for marriage is normally required by the parish.