St Theresa of Lisieux, Stansted

Introduction

Local architect Jim Boutwood designed the church in the style of an Essex barn, with modern interior and artwork by Stephen Foster.

Architecture and furnishings

The Risen Christ woodcarving in the Sanctuary behind the altar depicts the Resurrection. The Stations of the Cross are along the rear wall of the church. Behind the baptismal font is a scene of Christ being baptised by John the Baptist in the river Jordan. The parish newsletter includes a Prayer to St Joseph.

Parish life

The parish is part of a deanery of five parishes. The Wednesday club meets weekly.

A Parish Pastoral Council was formed. The parish welcomes the bishop and Confirmation Candidates to Mass, where candidates receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. One of the Confirmation Candidates also receives First Holy Communion on the same day. The parish's Social Committee invites parishioners to the Hall for teas/coffees after Mass.

Sacraments and pastoral care

The parish offers a process of initiation into the Catholic faith for those seeking baptism or full communion. The parish helps prepare funeral services for those who have died.

Visiting

The church has a car park. The church has full facilities for the disabled and a loop system for hearing aid users.

Visitors can bring Food Bank items to the church, which distributes them to the needy in the community. The church collects items to help the poor in London, sending them to the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal.