ACTIVITIES AND GROUPS
Church Readers (Lectors)
Church readers help bring the Liturgy of the Word to our Parish. To deliver the richness of the Word in a meaningful manner is a valuable gift. It brings personal benefit in our life of faith as well as helping our Parish develop a deeper understanding of the scripture. Our team of Readers come from our midst and span all ages and cultures. They deliver the Readings and lead us in our Bidding Prayers throughout the Church’s year on a rota basis.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/TX5nBB8Hnh
Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion distribute the Body and Blood of Christ to those who come forward during the Eucharistic celebration at Mass. Those who choose not to receive the Eucharist are welcomed with a blessing.
It is a gift to be an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion – to share the Body and Blood of Christ with another. The moment of communion is one that should be seized by both the minister and the communicant. This moment is unique because it is both personal and much bigger than the two people.
To be an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, you need to be a fully initiated Catholic, having celebrated the sacraments of Baptism, First Eucharist and Confirmation. intent on the work of liturgy caught up in singing, procession and even silence.
an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion is to know deeply that we are the Body and Blood of Christ.
Being with the praying community is to learn how to be in this world with reverence, with a love of God that is incarnate in how we speak to others, how we move amidst the holiness of matter and of time.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/rukj9EHRLT
Church Cleaners
Cleaning a place of worship can be a delicate and time-consuming process, as there can be many fragile memorial stones and sentimental religious objects that could react poorly to cleaning without proper treatment. We need members to come forward to help keep the church and its religious objects clean so visitors can focus on more important things during their visits and avoid being distracted by the mess and dirt that is sometimes left after services.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/96unr1qktn
Altar Servers
Altar Servers, are usually children or teenagers who assist the priest during Mass. Their role is recognized by the Church as an integral part of the liturgical service, and as such demands conduct and behaviour from those who serve that is in keeping with it. Altar Servers must follow the example of Jesus, who did not hesitate to place himself at the whole of humanity’s service, and even sacrificed himself. Not only during services, but also throughout everyday life, Altar Servers must live by following his example of love, generosity, commitment and precision. Altar Servers are Jesus’ ‘friends’, usually young people full of enthusiasm and willingness to take part in the activities of the Church by offering their contributions of love and devotion. If you would like to be an Altar Server please ask your parents to register your details with this link.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/KmQRp5XDpu
10am Choir
To sing is to pray twice. If you enjoy singing and regularly attend the 10am Mass maybe you could consider joining the Choir to contribute to the musical participation of the congregation in our public worship.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/J2jdNYcHkQ
12pm Folk group
The folk group meets on Thursday evenings at 6pm to practise and then attends the 12 noon Mass on Sundays to lead the people to participate in the singing and celebration of the Mass. If you would be interested in taking part and supporting this group, please fill in your details if you are over 18 or ask your parents to share their information so we can get in contact.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/aULgQHDp0J
Families with Special needs
Our Parish seeks to make everyone welcome. Sadly some families have been made to feel uncomfortable due to the special needs of some family members. We are trying to organise special Masses and activities for these families to come together and make the parish aware of what we can do to offer help and support. If you would like to know more please share your details.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/57CHBsD5MD
Flower Group
We are a small group which works on a 2-weekly rota. We arrange flowers for the Sunday Masses.
We are also requested for weddings, baptisms and 1st Communion flowers. You need to buy flowers, foliage for what you require and submit the bill to the Parish Office.
You need to also clear away arrangements especially after Christmas and Easter. We would love to get new members to come forward to assist us.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/PQd7T8X6yr
Children’s Liturgy
‘Children’s Liturgy’ is a very common liturgical activity in our parishes, offering our children the opportunity to listen and respond to the Sunday Gospel at an age-appropriate level.
The practice of children leaving the Sunday assembly during the Liturgy of the Word and gathering with adult leaders elsewhere to celebrate a separate Liturgy of the Word that is more appropriate to their level of understanding.
Two key principles need always to be kept in mind when preparing and celebrating Children’s Liturgy of the Word. Firstly, Children’s Liturgy of the Word is liturgy, ritual prayer and not catechesis (religious instruction) or child minding. Because it is a liturgical celebration, all the principles of good liturgy (active participation, clear symbols, etc) apply.
Secondly, it is liturgy of the Word, so it is ritual centred on the proclamation and breaking open of the scriptures. The children do what the rest of the community is doing at this point of the Mass. They listen to the scriptures proclaimed and applied to contemporary life and respond in various ways. It is an experience of prayer, of dialogue with God.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/ZbTDwHrnQY
Property Maintenance
We need men and women who have the following professional skills to ensure the maintenance of our facilities by helping us reduce the expenses that are incurred through the day to day maintenance of such a large property.
Electrical
Plumbing
Painting and decorating
General Handyman
Plasterers
Carpentry
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/vbKdxcbqbv
Grounds upkeep
We need people to tend the grounds: gardening and picking up litter. Volunteers are welcome to do this in their own time when they are available.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/662PvD5Dx2
Social Events
The social committee organises events which bring parishioners together in a social setting and builds community, it also helps raise funds for the parish and charitable causes. We organise social events such as the Summer Fayre, Christmas Bazaar, Lenten Lunches, Macmillan Coffee Morning etc, and we encourage parishioners to participate.
We need the regular infusion of new blood and fresh ideas so that our community can grow and flourish. No matter what your capabilities, you are most welcome, you just need commitment, willing hands and to work well as a team member. So please register your interest and we will get in touch.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/knKkUjkhem
1st Communion Catechist
As Catholics, we know that the Holy Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith: it is the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Pope Francis has called it the “Sacrament of Love”: “The Eucharist is at the heart of ‘Christian initiation’, together with Baptism and Confirmation, and it constitutes the source of the Church’s life itself. From this Sacrament of love, in fact, flows every authentic journey of faith, of communion, and of witness.”
For children who are preparing to receive their First Holy Communion, this is a big deal. And for all of us, no matter how many times we have received Our Lord in the Holy Eucharist, it should always be a big deal.
Every year we have 100 children enrolled to receive this sacrament. We therefore need your help to run the sessions.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/pu30ghc2T7
Confirmation Catechist
In this Sacrament, a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit deepens our love for God, strengthens us in our faith, and gives us courage for the work God wants us to do as members of the Church and for the welfare of the human family.
The candidates for Confirmation are expected: to attend Sunday Mass regularly; to take part in a sincere and wholehearted way in a process of preparation which is a mixture of sessions, discussions, activities and a spiritual retreat; to undertake some work of service in the parish; to be prepared to devote time for personal reflection on the topics to be discussed and to share their ideas with others.
Every year we have nearly 100 young people enrolled to receive this sacrament. We therefore need your help to run the sessions.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/du9Eyh4wCt
RCIA Catechist
No one is born Catholic. An unbaptized person may wish to explore becoming a Catholic. Every year, a group of adults gather to begin that process. They meet regularly with a small group of catechists. The candidates move in stages or steps toward Lent and the Easter Vigil when Baptism is celebrated.
Someone baptized in another Christian church may now wish to be a Catholic. A group similar to the RCIA receives instruction, guidance, and support. Reception into the church usually also takes place at the Easter Vigil.
Baptized Catholics frequently discover they have yet to “become Catholic”: some who missed essential religious formation may now be eager to continue the growth that all Catholics should experience. Throughout the year, the parish offers a series of sessions for such adults to complete their sacramental journey. We therefore need your help.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/mMXWjKMs4K
Baptism Catechist
According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Baptism is the first sacrament and gives access to the other required sacraments. It is also the act that grants spiritual rebirth and makes one a member of the church.
Every year many parents approach the parish seeking the sacrament of baptism for their child. These parents need our support, which is given through lessons to help them fully understand the promises and commitments they take when they celebrate the sacrament of baptism of their children. We therefore need your help.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/U5DMaLY9zZ
Marriage Preparation
Every year many couples approach the parish to prepare to celebrate the sacrament of marriage in the Catholic Church. In addition to the paperwork that needs to be collected, all couples are required to participate in a marriage preparation course with other couples.
Fr. Paul offers these courses as a one-day course. He needs couples that are already married to help him present the content of these days. Training will be provided.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/kXuTg1azWr
Communications Team
It is shocking how often people say that they didn’t know about things that are happening in the life of the parish. We need to up our game in the way we present information and contact people utilizing all forms of social media. Websites, publications newsletters, Facebook, twitter etc. if you have any skills and an interest in using social media, please give us your details and we will be in touch to organise a meeting to see how we can improve communication in the parish.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/6fvSb7ex8F
IT assistance
We have become so dependent on technology that everything falls apart when something goes wrong. We need to identify a team of people who can be on call to help us when there are problems. It would also be good to have a team of volunteers who would be available to help us manage the streaming of services from the church.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/S3SLCkVhkG
Brownies
Brownies is about trying new things that teach girls aged seven to 10 about themselves, their community and their world
Brownies introduces girls to a world of new opportunities, challenges and fun.
Girls go along to camps, holidays, day trips and sleepovers. They get together with their friends at regular meetings where they learn new hobbies, get creative, develop skills and have outdoor adventures.
As well as trying activities in their meetings, girls choose from interest badges related to things they want to know more about.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/SaZZCvKMuS
Beavers
Beavers are young people aged 6 to 8 who:
Master new skills and try new things
Have fun and go on adventures
Make friends
Are curious about the world around them
Help others and make a difference, on their own doorsteps and beyond
Every week, they gather in groups called Beaver Colonies to hop, skip and jump their way through lots of different games and activities – achieving anything they set their minds to, and having lots of fun along the way.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/VZAVpnADxs
Cubs
Cubs are young people aged 8 to 10½ who:
Master new skills and try new things
Have fun and go on adventures
Make friends
Are curious about the world around them
Help others and make a difference, in their own communities and beyond
Every week, they gather in groups called Cub Packs to take part in lots of interesting and challenging activities – achieving anything they set their minds to and having lots of fun along the way.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/zt9jTrVQdL
Guides
Are for girls aged 10 to 14-year-olds. At Guides you learn new skills, explore new places, go on camps and plan your own meetings. Enjoy exclusive events like our Big Gig concert and fun-packed festival, Wellies and wristbands. You can even get involved in leadership opportunities and make a difference in your community.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/GNEgtsbPmf
Scouts
Scouts are a go-getting group of young people aged 10 ½ to 14 who:
Master new skills and try new things
Make new friends
Have fun and go on adventures, at home and abroad
Explore the world around them
Help others and make a difference, in their own communities and beyond
Week in and week out, they gather in groups called Scout Troops to conquer the small task of changing the world.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/hbZ0sZHRyN
Rainbows
Rainbows meet on Friday evenings from 1800 until 1900 for a fun and exciting programme for 4 to 7 year olds girls. Being a Rainbows is all about having the space to try new things – they get their hands dirty, do sports, arts and crafts and play games. Through taking part in a range of different activities with girls their own age, Rainbows develop self-confidence and make lots of new friends.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/ncRpexyBf5
Helpers for the scouting and guiding movement
All our activities are run by volunteers, who might join us because they want to:
Try something new
Make friends
Spend time with their children – or gain experience with young people
Do something good for their community and themselves
Keep their bodies and brains active and happy – whether that’s by scaling mountains, sharing skills or serving tea
All end up making a huge difference to young people’s lives – gifting them with skills for life and learning a whole lot about themselves along the way.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/DeMq0jvLNW
SVP
The St Vincent de Paul Society (“SVP”) is an international Christian voluntary organisation dedicated to tackling poverty and disadvantage by providing direct practical assistance to anyone in need.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/eSQ9GaqigL
Knights of St Columbia
The KSC is the largest order for Catholic laymen in the UK and is part of the International Alliance of Catholic Knights ( IACK ) .
It is open to all practising Catholic men over the age of 16 who want to join together to serve God, the Church and their fellow men in charity, unity and fraternity.
It has been blessed by the Pope and has the full approval of the Catholic Hierarchy. There is a small fee for membership. More details of the history of the local council and the order can be viewed on the parish noticeboard.
The members of the Council meet monthly. The KSC is active in defending the sanctity of life, organising pilgrimages and spiritual events, raising money for charity and running social events. In recent years our local council has not been as active as in past years due to the Covid lockdowns and fall in our membership. Now that the emergency is over and things are returning to normal, we hope to become more active once more, starting with running our Bottle Stall at the Summer Fair.
New members are always welcome.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/iBmzLmpz42
Health and Safety Safeguarding group
Safeguarding involves us rising to the challenge of creating a safe space for everyone that we welcome into the parish and our facilities. Ensuring good maintenance is maintained and that health and safety, and safeguarding policies are understood and implemented requires us to have people available to monitor and offer training to parishioners to ensure that everyone understands their responsibilities.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/J2jdNYcHkQ
Claretian HCPT Group 18
HCPT offers pilgrimage holidays, to Lourdes in the south of France, for disabled and disadvantaged children. From and further afield.
Every around 1,000 disabled and disadvantaged children enjoy a fun and safe week in Lourdes, staying in hotels with their volunteer helpers.
We are grateful for your support. For our Claretian HCPT to continue to bring children to Lourdes, we need volunteers to fundraise and collect donations.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/irvPnDpjsX
Parish youth team
We are looking to establish a small team of young adults who would support the youth of the parish by offering occasional residential retreats and youth vigils. Training will be offered for those who are interested in deepening their own faith while sharing it with others.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/EtmDyrkJSD
Collection Counters
We require a team of parishioners to manage the practical aspects of managing the finances of the parish: counting collections, bank deposits, gift aid management etc. Participants would work with a small team and be expected to give of their time about once a month.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/rymm7AwPi5
Parish office volunteers
We desire to increase the team of volunteers that help us keep the Parish office and repository open to serve the parish. In addition to staffing the reception, volunteers help with simple administrative tasks.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/9Uz7DnhSMv
Church Stewards / Fire Marshals
We need people who will welcome those attending our services, guiding them and being ready to offer assistance in moments of difficulty.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/zmrxWFb8rG
Youth Group leaders
We need young adults who are prepared to create spaces for the younger members of our parish to gather in a supportive Christian environment, during school terms.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/BJHRYPCuVd
Post communion Youth group for primary school age
We have a dream of offering more opportunities for the youth of our parish to have the chance to get together. This group is for children in primary school who have made their first communion. If you would like to join, please ensure that your parents complete the form.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/SXzFpPBTT1
Preconfirmation Youth group for secondary school age
We have a dream of offering more opportunities for the youth of our parish to have the chance to get together. This group is for children in secondary school prior to their confirmation. If you would like to join, please ensure that your parents complete the form.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/MCJNdDEva8
Post confirmation youth Group
We seek to offer those who have been confirmed the opportunity to continue to find ways to engage in a meaningful way in the life of the parish. If you would like to join, please ensure that your parents complete the form.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/uZNFyyyS4B
Botwell does Saga – a gathering place for parishioners over 50!
We hope to establish two opportunities a week for people over 50 to get together and meet.
Meet for lunch on Tuesdays with bingo 12.30 until 4.00.
Meet for a drink and a social in the Claretian Oasis on Wednesday evenings from 7.30 until 10.
In gathering together on these occasions, we hope people will develop a programme of activities that interest them.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/Eg6y7qahp9
Minibus drivers to bring people to church for Mass and parish events
Some of our parishioners are unable to make their own way to Mass and to the church for the social events that we seek to provide. We need to increase the team of men and women who are prepared to give of their time to collect parishioners to bring to the church.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/yx7UB0cenr
Lay Claretians
The Lay Claretians are Christians who seek to embrace the mission of Jesus in the world as their own, to live according to the demands of the Kingdom and to provide a service of evangelisation in the Church according to the charism and spirit of St Anthony Mary Claret. They do so as lay people living fully inserted in the world and in time. The members undertake to be witnesses to the Gospel in the ordinary conditions of their married, family, professional and social lives, and to participate in the construction of the local Church as a community of faith, hope and charity. They are part of the Claretian Family with which they share the same charismatic roots and constitute an autonomously organised branch. The Lay Claretian Movement is organised on three levels: local, regional and international (world).
On the local level, the Lay Claretians usually form small groups or communities. For more information, please share your details using the following link and someone will be in touch with you.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/bEEayXb70x
Rangers
Meetings take place on Friday evenings from 19.30 until 21.30 and are for young women aged 14 to 18. In Rangers you’ll have a variety of exciting opportunities including travelling the world, getting your voice heard through advocacy campaigns, taking part in the peer education programme, and building valuable skills for your future.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/7hdFBTVLei
Parish Games Night
We are seeking to see how many people would be interested in taking part in an occasional games night where families and individuals would come together and have the opportunity to play their favourite board games and spend time with the wider parish family.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/QssThFiGu3
Church Readers (Lectors)
Church readers help bring the Liturgy of the Word to our Parish. To deliver the richness of the Word in a meaningful manner is a valuable gift. It brings personal benefit in our life of faith as well as helping our Parish develop a deeper understanding of the scripture. Our team of Readers come from our midst and span all ages and cultures. They deliver the Readings and lead us in our Bidding Prayers throughout the Church’s year on a rota basis.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/TX5nBB8Hnh
Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion distribute the Body and Blood of Christ to those who come forward during the Eucharistic celebration at Mass. Those who choose not to receive the Eucharist are welcomed with a blessing.
It is a gift to be an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion – to share the Body and Blood of Christ with another. The moment of communion is one that should be seized by both the minister and the communicant. This moment is unique because it is both personal and much bigger than the two people.
To be an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, you need to be a fully initiated Catholic, having celebrated the sacraments of Baptism, First Eucharist and Confirmation. intent on the work of liturgy caught up in singing, procession and even silence.
an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion is to know deeply that we are the Body and Blood of Christ.
Being with the praying community is to learn how to be in this world with reverence, with a love of God that is incarnate in how we speak to others, how we move amidst the holiness of matter and of time.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/rukj9EHRLT
Church Cleaners
Cleaning a place of worship can be a delicate and time-consuming process, as there can be many fragile memorial stones and sentimental religious objects that could react poorly to cleaning without proper treatment. We need members to come forward to help keep the church and its religious objects clean so visitors can focus on more important things during their visits and avoid being distracted by the mess and dirt that is sometimes left after services.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/96unr1qktn
Altar Servers
Altar Servers, are usually children or teenagers who assist the priest during Mass. Their role is recognized by the Church as an integral part of the liturgical service, and as such demands conduct and behaviour from those who serve that is in keeping with it. Altar Servers must follow the example of Jesus, who did not hesitate to place himself at the whole of humanity’s service, and even sacrificed himself. Not only during services, but also throughout everyday life, Altar Servers must live by following his example of love, generosity, commitment and precision. Altar Servers are Jesus’ ‘friends’, usually young people full of enthusiasm and willingness to take part in the activities of the Church by offering their contributions of love and devotion. If you would like to be an Altar Server please ask your parents to register your details with this link.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/KmQRp5XDpu
10am Choir
To sing is to pray twice. If you enjoy singing and regularly attend the 10am Mass maybe you could consider joining the Choir to contribute to the musical participation of the congregation in our public worship.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/J2jdNYcHkQ
12pm Folk group
The folk group meets on Thursday evenings at 6pm to practise and then attends the 12 noon Mass on Sundays to lead the people to participate in the singing and celebration of the Mass. If you would be interested in taking part and supporting this group, please fill in your details if you are over 18 or ask your parents to share their information so we can get in contact.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/aULgQHDp0J
Families with Special needs
Our Parish seeks to make everyone welcome. Sadly some families have been made to feel uncomfortable due to the special needs of some family members. We are trying to organise special Masses and activities for these families to come together and make the parish aware of what we can do to offer help and support. If you would like to know more please share your details.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/57CHBsD5MD
Flower Group
We are a small group which works on a 2-weekly rota. We arrange flowers for the Sunday Masses.
We are also requested for weddings, baptisms and 1st Communion flowers. You need to buy flowers, foliage for what you require and submit the bill to the Parish Office.
You need to also clear away arrangements especially after Christmas and Easter. We would love to get new members to come forward to assist us.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/PQd7T8X6yr
Children’s Liturgy
‘Children’s Liturgy’ is a very common liturgical activity in our parishes, offering our children the opportunity to listen and respond to the Sunday Gospel at an age-appropriate level.
The practice of children leaving the Sunday assembly during the Liturgy of the Word and gathering with adult leaders elsewhere to celebrate a separate Liturgy of the Word that is more appropriate to their level of understanding.
Two key principles need always to be kept in mind when preparing and celebrating Children’s Liturgy of the Word. Firstly, Children’s Liturgy of the Word is liturgy, ritual prayer and not catechesis (religious instruction) or child minding. Because it is a liturgical celebration, all the principles of good liturgy (active participation, clear symbols, etc) apply.
Secondly, it is liturgy of the Word, so it is ritual centred on the proclamation and breaking open of the scriptures. The children do what the rest of the community is doing at this point of the Mass. They listen to the scriptures proclaimed and applied to contemporary life and respond in various ways. It is an experience of prayer, of dialogue with God.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/ZbTDwHrnQY
Property Maintenance
We need men and women who have the following professional skills to ensure the maintenance of our facilities by helping us reduce the expenses that are incurred through the day to day maintenance of such a large property.
Electrical
Plumbing
Painting and decorating
General Handyman
Plasterers
Carpentry
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/vbKdxcbqbv
Grounds upkeep
We need people to tend the grounds: gardening and picking up litter. Volunteers are welcome to do this in their own time when they are available.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/662PvD5Dx2
Social Events
The social committee organises events which bring parishioners together in a social setting and builds community, it also helps raise funds for the parish and charitable causes. We organise social events such as the Summer Fayre, Christmas Bazaar, Lenten Lunches, Macmillan Coffee Morning etc, and we encourage parishioners to participate.
We need the regular infusion of new blood and fresh ideas so that our community can grow and flourish. No matter what your capabilities, you are most welcome, you just need commitment, willing hands and to work well as a team member. So please register your interest and we will get in touch.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/knKkUjkhem
1st Communion Catechist
As Catholics, we know that the Holy Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith: it is the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Pope Francis has called it the “Sacrament of Love”: “The Eucharist is at the heart of ‘Christian initiation’, together with Baptism and Confirmation, and it constitutes the source of the Church’s life itself. From this Sacrament of love, in fact, flows every authentic journey of faith, of communion, and of witness.”
For children who are preparing to receive their First Holy Communion, this is a big deal. And for all of us, no matter how many times we have received Our Lord in the Holy Eucharist, it should always be a big deal.
Every year we have 100 children enrolled to receive this sacrament. We therefore need your help to run the sessions.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/pu30ghc2T7
Confirmation Catechist
In this Sacrament, a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit deepens our love for God, strengthens us in our faith, and gives us courage for the work God wants us to do as members of the Church and for the welfare of the human family.
The candidates for Confirmation are expected: to attend Sunday Mass regularly; to take part in a sincere and wholehearted way in a process of preparation which is a mixture of sessions, discussions, activities and a spiritual retreat; to undertake some work of service in the parish; to be prepared to devote time for personal reflection on the topics to be discussed and to share their ideas with others.
Every year we have nearly 100 young people enrolled to receive this sacrament. We therefore need your help to run the sessions.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/du9Eyh4wCt
RCIA Catechist
No one is born Catholic. An unbaptized person may wish to explore becoming a Catholic. Every year, a group of adults gather to begin that process. They meet regularly with a small group of catechists. The candidates move in stages or steps toward Lent and the Easter Vigil when Baptism is celebrated.
Someone baptized in another Christian church may now wish to be a Catholic. A group similar to the RCIA receives instruction, guidance, and support. Reception into the church usually also takes place at the Easter Vigil.
Baptized Catholics frequently discover they have yet to “become Catholic”: some who missed essential religious formation may now be eager to continue the growth that all Catholics should experience. Throughout the year, the parish offers a series of sessions for such adults to complete their sacramental journey. We therefore need your help.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/mMXWjKMs4K
Baptism Catechist
According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Baptism is the first sacrament and gives access to the other required sacraments. It is also the act that grants spiritual rebirth and makes one a member of the church.
Every year many parents approach the parish seeking the sacrament of baptism for their child. These parents need our support, which is given through lessons to help them fully understand the promises and commitments they take when they celebrate the sacrament of baptism of their children. We therefore need your help.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/U5DMaLY9zZ
Marriage Preparation
Every year many couples approach the parish to prepare to celebrate the sacrament of marriage in the Catholic Church. In addition to the paperwork that needs to be collected, all couples are required to participate in a marriage preparation course with other couples.
Fr. Paul offers these courses as a one-day course. He needs couples that are already married to help him present the content of these days. Training will be provided.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/kXuTg1azWr
Communications Team
It is shocking how often people say that they didn’t know about things that are happening in the life of the parish. We need to up our game in the way we present information and contact people utilizing all forms of social media. Websites, publications newsletters, Facebook, twitter etc. if you have any skills and an interest in using social media, please give us your details and we will be in touch to organise a meeting to see how we can improve communication in the parish.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/6fvSb7ex8F
IT assistance
We have become so dependent on technology that everything falls apart when something goes wrong. We need to identify a team of people who can be on call to help us when there are problems. It would also be good to have a team of volunteers who would be available to help us manage the streaming of services from the church.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/S3SLCkVhkG
Brownies
Brownies is about trying new things that teach girls aged seven to 10 about themselves, their community and their world
Brownies introduces girls to a world of new opportunities, challenges and fun.
Girls go along to camps, holidays, day trips and sleepovers. They get together with their friends at regular meetings where they learn new hobbies, get creative, develop skills and have outdoor adventures.
As well as trying activities in their meetings, girls choose from interest badges related to things they want to know more about.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/SaZZCvKMuS
Beavers
Beavers are young people aged 6 to 8 who:
Master new skills and try new things
Have fun and go on adventures
Make friends
Are curious about the world around them
Help others and make a difference, on their own doorsteps and beyond
Every week, they gather in groups called Beaver Colonies to hop, skip and jump their way through lots of different games and activities – achieving anything they set their minds to, and having lots of fun along the way.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/VZAVpnADxs
Cubs
Cubs are young people aged 8 to 10½ who:
Master new skills and try new things
Have fun and go on adventures
Make friends
Are curious about the world around them
Help others and make a difference, in their own communities and beyond
Every week, they gather in groups called Cub Packs to take part in lots of interesting and challenging activities – achieving anything they set their minds to and having lots of fun along the way.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/zt9jTrVQdL
Guides
Are for girls aged 10 to 14-year-olds. At Guides you learn new skills, explore new places, go on camps and plan your own meetings. Enjoy exclusive events like our Big Gig concert and fun-packed festival, Wellies and wristbands. You can even get involved in leadership opportunities and make a difference in your community.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/GNEgtsbPmf
Scouts
Scouts are a go-getting group of young people aged 10 ½ to 14 who:
Master new skills and try new things
Make new friends
Have fun and go on adventures, at home and abroad
Explore the world around them
Help others and make a difference, in their own communities and beyond
Week in and week out, they gather in groups called Scout Troops to conquer the small task of changing the world.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/hbZ0sZHRyN
Rainbows
Rainbows meet on Friday evenings from 1800 until 1900 for a fun and exciting programme for 4 to 7 year olds girls. Being a Rainbows is all about having the space to try new things – they get their hands dirty, do sports, arts and crafts and play games. Through taking part in a range of different activities with girls their own age, Rainbows develop self-confidence and make lots of new friends.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/ncRpexyBf5
Helpers for the scouting and guiding movement
All our activities are run by volunteers, who might join us because they want to:
Try something new
Make friends
Spend time with their children – or gain experience with young people
Do something good for their community and themselves
Keep their bodies and brains active and happy – whether that’s by scaling mountains, sharing skills or serving tea
All end up making a huge difference to young people’s lives – gifting them with skills for life and learning a whole lot about themselves along the way.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/DeMq0jvLNW
SVP
The St Vincent de Paul Society (“SVP”) is an international Christian voluntary organisation dedicated to tackling poverty and disadvantage by providing direct practical assistance to anyone in need.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/eSQ9GaqigL
Knights of St Columbia
The KSC is the largest order for Catholic laymen in the UK and is part of the International Alliance of Catholic Knights ( IACK ) .
It is open to all practising Catholic men over the age of 16 who want to join together to serve God, the Church and their fellow men in charity, unity and fraternity.
It has been blessed by the Pope and has the full approval of the Catholic Hierarchy. There is a small fee for membership. More details of the history of the local council and the order can be viewed on the parish noticeboard.
The members of the Council meet monthly. The KSC is active in defending the sanctity of life, organising pilgrimages and spiritual events, raising money for charity and running social events. In recent years our local council has not been as active as in past years due to the Covid lockdowns and fall in our membership. Now that the emergency is over and things are returning to normal, we hope to become more active once more, starting with running our Bottle Stall at the Summer Fair.
New members are always welcome.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/iBmzLmpz42
Health and Safety Safeguarding group
Safeguarding involves us rising to the challenge of creating a safe space for everyone that we welcome into the parish and our facilities. Ensuring good maintenance is maintained and that health and safety, and safeguarding policies are understood and implemented requires us to have people available to monitor and offer training to parishioners to ensure that everyone understands their responsibilities.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/J2jdNYcHkQ
Claretian HCPT Group 18
HCPT offers pilgrimage holidays, to Lourdes in the south of France, for disabled and disadvantaged children. From and further afield.
Every around 1,000 disabled and disadvantaged children enjoy a fun and safe week in Lourdes, staying in hotels with their volunteer helpers.
We are grateful for your support. For our Claretian HCPT to continue to bring children to Lourdes, we need volunteers to fundraise and collect donations.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/irvPnDpjsX
Parish youth team
We are looking to establish a small team of young adults who would support the youth of the parish by offering occasional residential retreats and youth vigils. Training will be offered for those who are interested in deepening their own faith while sharing it with others.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/EtmDyrkJSD
Collection Counters
We require a team of parishioners to manage the practical aspects of managing the finances of the parish: counting collections, bank deposits, gift aid management etc. Participants would work with a small team and be expected to give of their time about once a month.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/rymm7AwPi5
Parish office volunteers
We desire to increase the team of volunteers that help us keep the Parish office and repository open to serve the parish. In addition to staffing the reception, volunteers help with simple administrative tasks.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/9Uz7DnhSMv
Church Stewards / Fire Marshals
We need people who will welcome those attending our services, guiding them and being ready to offer assistance in moments of difficulty.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/zmrxWFb8rG
Youth Group leaders
We need young adults who are prepared to create spaces for the younger members of our parish to gather in a supportive Christian environment, during school terms.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/BJHRYPCuVd
Post communion Youth group for primary school age
We have a dream of offering more opportunities for the youth of our parish to have the chance to get together. This group is for children in primary school who have made their first communion. If you would like to join, please ensure that your parents complete the form.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/SXzFpPBTT1
Preconfirmation Youth group for secondary school age
We have a dream of offering more opportunities for the youth of our parish to have the chance to get together. This group is for children in secondary school prior to their confirmation. If you would like to join, please ensure that your parents complete the form.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/MCJNdDEva8
Post confirmation youth Group
We seek to offer those who have been confirmed the opportunity to continue to find ways to engage in a meaningful way in the life of the parish. If you would like to join, please ensure that your parents complete the form.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/uZNFyyyS4B
Botwell does Saga – a gathering place for parishioners over 50!
We hope to establish two opportunities a week for people over 50 to get together and meet.
Meet for lunch on Tuesdays with bingo 12.30 until 4.00.
Meet for a drink and a social in the Claretian Oasis on Wednesday evenings from 7.30 until 10.
In gathering together on these occasions, we hope people will develop a programme of activities that interest them.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/Eg6y7qahp9
Minibus drivers to bring people to church for Mass and parish events
Some of our parishioners are unable to make their own way to Mass and to the church for the social events that we seek to provide. We need to increase the team of men and women who are prepared to give of their time to collect parishioners to bring to the church.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/yx7UB0cenr
Lay Claretians
The Lay Claretians are Christians who seek to embrace the mission of Jesus in the world as their own, to live according to the demands of the Kingdom and to provide a service of evangelisation in the Church according to the charism and spirit of St Anthony Mary Claret. They do so as lay people living fully inserted in the world and in time. The members undertake to be witnesses to the Gospel in the ordinary conditions of their married, family, professional and social lives, and to participate in the construction of the local Church as a community of faith, hope and charity. They are part of the Claretian Family with which they share the same charismatic roots and constitute an autonomously organised branch. The Lay Claretian Movement is organised on three levels: local, regional and international (world).
On the local level, the Lay Claretians usually form small groups or communities. For more information, please share your details using the following link and someone will be in touch with you.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/bEEayXb70x
Rangers
Meetings take place on Friday evenings from 19.30 until 21.30 and are for young women aged 14 to 18. In Rangers you’ll have a variety of exciting opportunities including travelling the world, getting your voice heard through advocacy campaigns, taking part in the peer education programme, and building valuable skills for your future.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/7hdFBTVLei
Parish Games Night
We are seeking to see how many people would be interested in taking part in an occasional games night where families and individuals would come together and have the opportunity to play their favourite board games and spend time with the wider parish family.
Registration will be open until June 14th so please use the following link and someone will contact you by the end of June. https://forms.office.com/r/QssThFiGu3