St. Mary, Mother of Christ

Introduction

The Holy Water stoops in the church were dedicated in the names of Sir Harry and Lady Brand.

History

The first Mass in the new chapel was celebrated on Christmas Day 1911 by the Reverend Emile Burt from Heron's Ghyll. In April 1912 the Tabernacle, Sanctuary Lamp and Ciborium were bought from Hayes & Finch. The first set of Stations of the Cross was presented by a Lady Matthews in 1913; the present set dates from 1925. Crowborough ceased to be a chapel of ease to Heron's Ghyll on 10th December 1922 and became a church in its own right.

The first Parish Priest of the new St Mary's Parish was Fr Herbert F Robins, who financed the building of the Presbytery in 1922 and took up residence on 6th December 1922. In 1957 the church suffered a vandal attack causing considerable damage, including discharged fire extinguishers and damaged pews. In July 1991 a new organ was added, the ceiling of the church was replaced, and the church was rewired; this construction work was carried out by parishioner Doug Mepham. In September 1992 the present Altar was installed and two months later two pillars either side of the main aisle were removed, resulting in a more open church interior.

In autumn 2000 the church was rewired again to comply with current Health and Safety Legislation, completed within one week. In November 1966 central heating was installed in the church at a cost of £650. In 1904 an unnamed lady visitor donated £20 towards establishing a Roman Catholic Church or chapel of ease in Crowborough. The first Baptism in the new Church took place on 21st July 1912.

Music and liturgy

The Second Vatican Council led to the altar being turned to face the people and the introduction of Mass in the native language. Children of school age may take part in their own liturgy during Sunday Mass.

Regular events

At Christmas, children take part in short Nativity celebrations before the Christmas Mass, and there is an annual children's Christmas party. A Summer Outing is held at a suitable venue.

Sacraments and pastoral care

The Bereavement Care Team members are parishioners trained by the Diocese to offer friendship and support. The offer of friendship and support is extended to bereaved parishioners living away or abroad who lack local support. There is a Remembrance book in the church where names of the deceased can be added at any time. Support is given to the family at the time of death and at the funeral if at Saint Mary's Church with tea and coffee beforehand.

Sympathy cards are sent at the time of bereavement and on the first anniversary. The parish has a small group of parishioners linked to the national and international Society of St Vincent de Paul.

Altar Servers are trained over 2-3 years leading to enrolment into the Guild of St Stephen. The Children's Liturgy Group has traditionally been run by the parents of the children attending it.