St Marie Church

Introduction

Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin designed the church, which was built in 1846-7. The church is built of ashlar in Early English and Decorated styles.

Architecture and furnishings

The church has a south aisle with a saddle backed west tower, built 1846-7. The nave, north aisle, and chancel with apse were built in 1864-7. The church has a fine west steeple of 1872 by B Whelan. The church contains a fine Hibbert brass in the south aisle.

The church has a baptistery. The church contains Hibbert and Wilberforce chantries. The Liturgy Group plans all the major liturgical celebrations in the parish, including hymns, readings, and serving.

Parish life

The parish is served by members of the Rosminian Community. The parish has a social group that organises events and parish pilgrimages. The parish has a prayer group that sends monthly prayer leaflets to members. The parish has a bereavement group that offers comfort and support to those who have lost a loved one.

The parish runs a First Holy Communion course for children not attending St Marie's School. The parish has a local Catholic primary school for children aged 3-11. The flower arrangers decorate the church on a weekly basis. The 500 Club holds a monthly draw to raise funds for parish and mission funds.

Sacraments and pastoral care

The parish offers practical and spiritual help in planning a loved one's funeral, including choosing hymns, readings, music and flowers. Each week, during Sunday Mass and in the newsletter, the parish remembers the anniversaries of those who have died. Baptisms usually take place on Sundays.

Visiting

A live stream service is available for viewing online. A team of church caretakers keeps the church clean. A welcome team greets parishioners at weekend Masses. A Facebook page provides updates about St Marie's.