St. Mary, Fleetwood

Introduction

Saint Mary's Church in Fleetwood, within the Diocese of Lancaster, is a Roman Catholic parish church whose church and presbytery are both Grade II listed buildings.

History

The first Catholic chapel mission in Fleetwood was established in 1841 in four converted dwelling houses in Walmsley Street. The original chapel was severely damaged in a great storm of 1852. In 1847 Rev. E. Gibson was appointed and negotiated the purchase of land in London Street primarily for a school and Church. Rev. T. Bridges took charge of Saint Mary's Mission in 1864 for 33 years and laid the foundation of the present Church and Presbytery.

The foundation stone of St Mary's Church was laid by Bishop Goss in May 1866, and the church was solemnly opened by him in November 1867. The final debt on Church and House was paid off in 1891. The church was consecrated on 21 April 1937. Storm damage left the present church roof requiring urgent repairs in the twentieth century, and more extensive refurbishment to the roof and supporting beams was necessary in 1991.

The quinquennial inspection report of 2018 identified all the structural defects within both the church and presbytery. In 2020 the parish received a very generous bequest from a couple of parishioners which boosted restoration funds. A conservator was employed to expose areas of the original paintwork from the day the church was completed. Urgent repairs included removing the iron cross from the church roof, securing the louvre vents in the gable wall and making safe an area where a large piece of masonry had fallen away.

Parish life

St Mary's welcomes worshippers of all ages and backgrounds, serving the people of Fleetwood. The church opens every day for the celebration of the Word of God.

First Holy Communion is usually introduced through St Mary's R.C Primary School for children in Year 4. The parish arranges for Holy Communion to be brought to the sick or housebound.

Many valued volunteers contribute to the success of St Mary's Church. A restoration group was formed to work towards returning the church to its original condition. Visitors are welcome to come in to pray, light a candle, or sit quietly.

Sacraments and pastoral care

Those planning to marry in the Catholic Church of St Mary's are asked to contact the priest at least 6 months before the proposed wedding date. The parish welcomes new members and offers baptism for children, with contact through the priest.