St. John's Church, Beaminster

Introduction

During World War II, US Army Chaplains from nearby Parnham House celebrated Mass in the Red Lion pub. The church was designed to seat a congregation of 80 and measured 52ft by 20ft.

History

A site at Culverhayes was bought in 1965 for £900, but an alternative larger site was later purchased in Shortmoor. The church was extended northwards in 1975 and further extended to the south in 1992.

Architecture and furnishings

The altar and font came from Christ the King Primary School in Bournemouth. The crucifix behind the altar was given by Gordon Crew in memory of his first wife.

Music and liturgy

The choir often sings parts in harmony, particularly for the psalm and choral set pieces during communion. The choir joins other churches in Bridport for ecumenical services such as Taizé sung prayer, Christmas carol concerts and World Day of Prayer. The choir has sung for residents at Sydney Gale house and at Peelers Court.

The organ may be played at funerals, with the undertaker and Parish Priest helping to find an organist. In Children’s Liturgy, children listen to the scriptures proclaimed and applied to contemporary life and respond in various ways. Children’s Liturgy uses the Catholic Children’s Bible from St Mary’s Press.

The Period of Enquiry ends with the Rite of Acceptance Into the Order of Catechumens, where one publicly expresses intent to join the Catholic community in Bridport. Following initiation, there is a period of Mystagogy to reflect upon the sacraments received and embed oneself into the active life of the parish in Bridport, Beaminster and Chideock.

Parish life

Children reaching year 3 (age 7) prepare for First Holy Communion and First Reconciliation. The preparation course for children is held weekly during term time at the Parish Church in Bridport. The parish follows the 'I Belong' catechetical programme, centred on the Mass. The First Holy Communion Mass celebration always occurs on the Feast of Corpus Christi.

The ministry of altar server is open to everyone who has made their First Holy Communion. The Bridport Social Committee runs events to support the local church community and international causes.

The parish holds an occasional Men's Breakfast at a local hotel, with profits going to charity. The Parish Priest must approve the choice of music and hymns for funeral services.