St. Joseph

Introduction

In 1924, to mark the Golden Jubilee of Saint Robert's church, Father Saxton and the people of Saint Robert's decided to build a chapel-of-ease at Bilton dedicated to Saint Joseph.

History

The architect was W.H.H. Marten of Leeds and the foundation stone was laid by Bishop Cowgill on 16 July 1924. The first Mass was said in the new church on 30 July 1925 by the Bishop assisted by Father Saxton and Father Hammond. On 16 January 1929 Saint Joseph's was established as an independent parish and Father W.J. Bickerdike was appointed the first parish priest. Father W.J. Bickerdike remained parish priest for 26 years until his death on 3 February 1955.

To mark the Golden Jubilee of the parish in 1979 it was decided to re-order the sanctuary of the church in accordance with the changes in liturgical requirements. At the same time the church was re-carpeted throughout. The former reredos was fronted with Portland stone to match the existing Ancaster stone work.

Parish life

The parish primarily gathers to worship God during the celebration of the Holy Mass and other liturgies and services throughout the year. The parish community includes people from all walks of life, ages and backgrounds, many of whom were not born or brought up in the parish but come from all corners of the land and many countries. Many parishioners are involved in social and charitable endeavours, and within the church community there are groups that minister to the wider church, the young, the elderly, and the sick and housebound.

The parish has a Knights of St Columba group. Every autumn, a group of adults gather to begin the process of exploring becoming Catholic, meeting regularly with lay leaders and a priest.

Children are prepared to make their First Reconciliation in Year 3, which then leads on to the First Holy Communion programme in Year 4. In November, the parish observes a month of special prayer for the Holy Souls, listing the names of loved ones and placing them by the altar. Baptised non-Catholics are also confirmed during the Easter Vigil.