St Mary

Introduction

Windows donated by the Union of Catholic Mothers, dedicated to Saint Margaret Clitherow and Saint Anne, were installed in the East wall of Saint Mary's church.

History

The original choir loft above the sacristy in the west wall was closed off and incorporated into the presbytery, which also underwent extensive rearrangements. A window dedicated to Saint Vincent de Paul, donated by the SVP, and a window dedicated to Saint Jude, donated by Mrs. D. Taylor, were installed in the East wall of the church. A double window dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes, donated in memory of William and Christian Marren, was installed in the West wall. The period from 25th December 2013 to 12th October 2014 was celebrated as the 150th Anniversary Year of the founding of the Parish of Saint Mary Willenhall.

Architecture and furnishings

A new Altar and 'Reredos' were installed in memory of Mrs M. A. Tarbuck. The organ was rebuilt thanks to the efforts of the Union of Catholic Mothers, who raised over 200 pounds for the rebuilding. Work commenced on the opening of new main doors in the north wall of the church and installation of a porch / vestibule.

Music and liturgy

The Guild of Saint Stephen was established at Saint Mary's on 6th December 1990. Heartsong is the parish's youth choir, meeting throughout the year and assisting at various liturgies. Te Deum is the parish music group that assists at liturgies and meets every Wednesday.

Parish life

Nicholas Barre House, working closely with Brushstrokes, provides accommodation for those granted asylum in the UK. The parish was awarded the Live Simply Award in 2022 and across its four churches strives to reduce waste and decrease carbon footprint. The Bereavement Group meets once a month on Monday to provide support for those who are bereaved. The parish Walking Group meets weekly for a walk lasting around 45 minutes.

The Focolare community work closely with the parish, providing spiritual reflections and retreats throughout the year. The parish holds 7 coffee mornings per week under the umbrella of 'Places of Welcome', open to the public. Those interested in learning more about the Catholic faith can enrol on the next Sycamore. The parish youth meet as Ambassadors for Christ every month at Holy Trinity, Bilston.

Children's Liturgy groups meet during Sunday Masses in various places each weekend. The Arts and Crafts Group meets every month on a Thursday evening at Holy Trinity.

The Catholic Women's League was formed by ladies of Willenhall parish, with Mrs. P. Kelly as founder President. The Catholic Women's League disbanded because of war-time difficulties. Saint Mary's Girls Brigade became Saint Mary's Catholic Pipe Band. A major extension to the Catholic Social club was completed.

The Boys and Girls brigades, despite reaching membership numbers in excess of 70 each, were eventually wound up in the mid 1970s. With the departure/retirement of long standing committee members, the UCM and Legion of Mary declined and both were disbanded. Saint Mary's Scouts and Cubs disbanded. A new 'Parish Hall' was opened adjacent to Saint Mary's Presbytery.

Regular events

Each year the parish offers an Advent retreat day to help prepare spiritually for Christmas. During Lent, the parish gathers for a Lent Group, following a selected course together. The Sycamore group meets monthly at St Joseph's, Darlaston.

Sacraments and pastoral care

The parish's schools work with the parish in preparing students for First Confession, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation. Confirmation preparation is through a parish-run Sacramental Club, one evening a week for nine sessions. All Confirmation candidates take part in a Confirmation Retreat Day. Registration for the Confirmation Preparation Programme takes place each July.

For marriage, the Church asks for a minimum of six months of preparation. For funerals, families should contact the Funeral Directors and then the Parish Office to make arrangements.