St Paul

Introduction

The architect was David Brown and the building contractor was Charlton's; work commenced on the church and Saint Paul's school in 1969. The current site was acquired in 1969, with planning and design overseen at a total cost of £70,000 for the site, church and presbytery.

Architecture and furnishings

On 11 August 1970 a sponsored walk from Cramlington to Blyth and back raised £150 to purchase an organ. The Pascal Candle Stand and four Candle Stands were made by a parishioner, and the Stations of the Cross were donated by A. O. Andrew (Dublin).

On 20 February 2026, the Chapel of Our Lady of Fatima was solemnly blessed and dedicated, with relics of Saints Francisco and Jacinta Marto enshrined. The Knights of Saint Columba donated the original Processional Cross, which has subsequently been replaced.

Music and liturgy

The choir gave a Radio Easter Broadcast on 11 April 1971, the first of many concerts and performances. In July 2010 a new band called 40 Years On came together to perform as part of the parish's 40 Year Celebration, with their first concert in church during November 2010. The parish works closely with the Guild of Saint Stephen to encourage high standards of serving at the liturgy.

Parish life

In the same premises as the Foodbank there is a Uniform and Baby Equipment Bank and Exchange. A small group covers the Saturday service to lead the congregation in song.

The S.V.P. Conference was formed at Saint Paul's on 15 February 1970 but has since ceased to function. The first Parish Autumn Fayre was held in Saint Paul's School Hall on 21 October 1970. A Parish Mission lasting two weeks began on 22 November 1970. In January 1971 an extensive campaign began to get the Planned Giving Envelope Scheme off the ground, with the first envelopes received on 1 February 1971.

On 13 June 1971 a group of children were the first to receive their First Holy Communion in the Parish. The first Centenarian parishioner was Margaret Martin who celebrated her 100th birthday on 2 April 2011.

Sacraments and pastoral care

The Parish Priest or Deacon arranges a Preparation Course for any adult seeking Baptism. Reconciliation is available before every daily Mass, and can also be scheduled at an agreed time.

Visiting

The Piety Stall at the back of the church offers a quieter area for children during Mass. Wednesday weekday Masses at St Paul's resumed in church in April 2026.