St Joseph

Introduction

The church was dedicated by Bishop Joseph Thorman in May 1930. The foundation stone was laid on 30th September 1903 by Bishop Richard Preston, and the church was completed in 1905.

History

The church was built following a generous legacy from Mrs Blanche Leadbitter of Ryton, who left enough money for the building of a church and the maintenance of a priest. The architect was Charles Walker, who also designed St Patrick's in Felling. In 1920, Father Pippet installed the present High Altar as a War Memorial to the fallen of the 1914-18 war, and the reredos was installed and painted at the same time by the artist Gabrielle Pippett, the brother of Father Pippet. The church was built from locally quarried sandstone.

Parish life

A parishioner at St Joseph’s Blaydon helps organise and lead the music. The four parishes together have a parish counsel, with members elected from the four parish communities.

Confirmation preparation for Year 9, 10 and above students is taught jointly with other deanery parishes. The parish priest has been chaplain to the QE, Dryburn and Lanchester Road Hospitals.

The four parishes together have a daily prayers booklet. The parish has a community Facebook page for news and frequent livestreams of Mass.

A Carol Service is held in one of the churches and is open to all, providing a time for personal and shared reflection. Baptism preparation entails attending one preparation session to understand the ceremony and commitments.