St Therese of Lisieux, Basildon

Introduction

St Therese of Lisieux Church in Basildon began in a small chapel in Laindon in 1926, among the first dedicated to her after her 1925 canonization.

History

The present church opened in Florence Way, Laindon, in 1992, replacing a previous church that had become beyond repair. Between 1966 and 1973 a hall was built on Wickhay, which remains as the parish hall, and Mass was said there.

Music and liturgy

The Filipino Music Group leads the congregation once a month, usually on the second Sunday, with songs selected and played by the group. The Children's Choir is formed by children from the Indian and Afro-Caribbean communities and leads well-known hymns.

Parish life

The parish is twinned with the Parish of Embalenhle in South Africa. The parish is accredited by the Fairtrade Foundation as a Fairtrade Parish. The parish has been accredited the CAFOD LiveSimply Award.

The Legion of Mary is active at St Therese and St Basil's. The Basildon Filipino UK Community was launched in 2004 due to the increasing number of Filipinos.

The parish has a children's liturgy for those aged 4 to 8. The Parish Council exists to help the parish to be run for the good of all. The parish has a Parish Council Chair.

The parish has a St Vincent de Paul Society group. The parish runs a Children's Programme for ages 4-14. The parish has a youth programme with activities for young people aged 15 and over.

Sacraments and pastoral care

Couples preparing for marriage meet with one of the priests a few times and attend two days of preparation with other couples. The parish asks couples planning a wedding to give at least six months notice.