St. Joseph, Preston

Introduction

Saint Joseph, Preston, in the Diocese of Lancaster, was built in the centre of a large cotton-mill district and dedicated to St Joseph the worker.

Architecture and furnishings

The church is built of red brick with sandstone dressings and a slate roof. The interior has aisle arcades with columns of polished pink granite and stiff-leaf caps. The church has a large elaborately carved Gothic reredos including marble shafts and life-size statues. The church has a marble octagonal pulpit with statues in arched niches and a curved staircase. The church has stained glass windows by Mayer of Munich and Casolini of St Helens.

Parish life

The parish provides for the sick and housebound, encouraging contact with a priest to arrange visits and prayers. The parish offers faith formation groups for those unsure of Catholic teachings. The parish welcomes adult converts, offering preparation tailored to each individual's readiness.

The parish provides support for those considering the Catholic faith, including those who are lapsed. The parish encourages parishioners to volunteer in roles such as catechist, cleaner, sacristan, altar server, grounds help, and social events. The parish has devotions to the English Martyrs following Mass. The parish encourages those sensing a priestly vocation to approach the parish priest for guidance.

Sacraments and pastoral care

Confirmation is offered to young people from around year 6 (age 10+), with preparation over several months. Adults who are not yet baptised or confirmed are accompanied on a course sharing the Catholic faith.

The parish requires at least six months' notice for marriage preparation and paperwork. The parish offers the Sacrament of the Sick to those who are very sick, about to undergo serious surgery, or preparing for the final journey, and it can be arranged at home. The parish encourages families to contact the parish office as soon as possible while a sick loved one is alert and able to communicate.

Visiting

The parish census form is found in the Church porch or on the website. The parish supports the APF Mission Box (Red Box) scheme, with contents emptied for the APF secretary to count.