NEW TO
THE PARISH?
WELCOME!

CHURCH. COMMUNITY. CHRIST.

W

e’re glad you’re here. It is our joy to welcome you to the Catholic Parish of Bishop’s Stortford, a place that welcomes all ages, cultures, and walks of life and strives to build a Christian community. Our parish is a great place to be with many active ministries, great schools and thousands of great people.We belong to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Westminster and comprise three churches: St Joseph and the English Martyrs (Bishop’s Stortford), Holy Cross (Much Hadham) and Most Holy Redeemer (Sawbridgeworth). We would love for you to not only join this church and family, but to also join us in transforming our world. We look forward to praying, serving, and walking with you!

I AM ON THIS PAGE BECAUSE ...

I have just moved to the area

Please make yourself known by introducing yourself to any of the parish team when you see them. You can also call the Parish Office so you can register or fill in an online registration form. The About Us page will tell you everything you need to know, including parish groups that you might want to join.

I am visiting the area

We love welcoming visitors to our churches. We would be thrilled to have you at any of our Mass services. Remember, you can  “keep in touch” with the parish even after your visit by watching our Masses online via the Live Streaming  page. Our Masses are also recorded so you can watch them later or even download.

I am lapsed or want to be a Catholic

If you are not a Catholic or a lapsed one, find out What We Believe. We also offer the RCIA programme for those who were baptised Catholic but never received First Holy Communion or were never confirmed. The programme is also for those who were never baptised but would like to discern becoming a Catholic.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • Is there a children's liturgy?

    No. However, the 9:00 Sunday Mass at St Joseph and the English Martyrs Church is geared towards children and families, with the homily often directed at children.

  • Is there a dress code for attending Mass?

    Feel free to wear your “normal” clothes. We want you to feel comfortable and don’t expect you to wear your best suits and dress. However, please bear in mind that you are expected to show reverence to God when in church and your attire should reflect this.

  • What about access for people with disabilities?

    St Joseph and the English Martyrs Church is fully accessible for people with disabilities. Wheelchairs are no problem and our toilet facilities are also accessible.

  • Is the church open for private prayer?

    Yes, St Joseph and the English Martyrs Church is open for private prayer most days until 3:00 pm. Currently, the churches of Most Holy Redeemer and Holy Cross are only open when there is Mass.

  • How can I be baptised or get married in the parish?

    We have a whole section on the sacraments giving  you  all the information you need to know about baptism, First Holy Communion, Confirmation, marriage, anointing of the sick, RCIA, funerals. etc.

  • How can I get more involved in the parish?

    There  are many opportunities for getting involved. We have many different parish groups to help you meet other parishioners and have fun at the same time. Or why not share your time and talents by considering one of the ministries you can take on such as altar serving, being a Eucharistic minister or being part of our music groups? You can also submit a volunteering form to tell us how you are willing to help.

  • How can I know more about the Catholic faith?

    We have an ever-growing Resources section which includes information on the Catholic faith. We have dedicated pages for parents and families, teens and children to help them grow in their faith. We also have reflections and links to great Catholic websites for you to explore.

  • Is there a mailing list that I can join?

    The website is the best way to get all the updates on the parish. We also send out a weekly newsletter with all the latest news, advice and information. To join, sign up on our newsletters page.

  • I want to speak to one of the priests. How?

    Fr Peter and Fr Antonio are always happy to see people on a one-to-one basis, though certain regulations will need to be followed because of the pandemic and safeguarding. You can make an appointment to see either of them by contacting the Parish Office.

  • How can I get a Certificate of Catholic Practice for my child?

    In the first instance, please contact the Parish Office.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? CONTACT US!