Baptism is about bringing your child into the Family of God. Your first step is simply to come along to Mass at the weekend and make yourself known to the priest afterwards. Sunday’s Masses are probably the best as there are better family facilities (especially Children’s Liturgy) and refreshments are served after Sunday morning Mass at St Herbert’s and every first Sunday at Corpus Christi, so you can get to know some of that “Family of God” that you are asking for your child to join.

A: The simple answer is “no” – whilst Catholic schools give priority to baptised Catholic children, there may well be other places which are available to non-Catholic children. The important thing to remember is that Baptism is a life-commitment, not simply a ticket to a Catholic school. Contact the schools for full details of their admissions policies.

A: Yes. We welcome families at our Masses, and this means we must be tolerant, within reason, of a certain amount of noise from children. Our Lady’s chapel (at Corpus Christi) is suitable for this. But if they need a break, we have a space in the foyer at the back of both Churches where you can take them for a short “time out” (but do, please, supervise them at all times). If you really need somewhere soundproof for a while, the foyers of both churches are comfortable and heated in the winter.

A: Yes. Whilst most of the children on our Sacramental Programme are from our own primary schools, there will almost always be some from other schools and they will all be made welcome. For the benefit of those for whom the programme is not being specifically backed up by their school’s RE lessons, a small number of additional classes will be provided in the parish.

A: Come along to Mass and make yourself known to the priest afterwards, without any obligation. Different options can be discussed with you then.

A: Yes. We have the Priest and Extra ordinary ministers of Holy Communion (Eucharistic Ministers) who take Holy Communion to the sick and housebound, and we are always happy to add people to our lists. Just let us know.

A: Yes. Most hospitals have a chaplaincy service, but you will need to let the nursing staff know you would like a visit from the chaplain – they are unlikely to ask you if you do not speak to them first. If you would like your own parish priest to come and visit, again just let him know.

A: Weekday Mass times are published in the parish newsletter, and can vary. Sometimes they will take place in the schools – but parishioners are still most welcome to attend.

A: Always a popular question!! This will normally be well before midnight on Christmas Eve, but the best thing to do is simply check the newsletter near the time.

A: Speak to the parish priest or to any of the welcomers. We welcome volunteers – indeed the parish could not run without them. You will, we are sure, appreciate that some volunteers are required to complete a DBS check.

A: Both churches have a loop system for the hard of hearing, and ramped access. Both also have accessible toilet facilities.

A: Yes, electronic copies are available on the Parish Website/Newsletters

A: Sorry! We do make mistakes, and will not be offended by a reminder.

A: If you feel we have let you down in any way, please tell us – we cannot put it right otherwise. But please don’t shout at our volunteers, even if you think they have made the mistake. They work so hard and give so generously of their time. If you have a complaint please speak to the parish priest (Fr Lawrence) – or if you feel it is serious enough you may, of course, contact the Bishop. (His contact details are available on the Diocesan website). If you have any safeguarding concerns, please speak to our Safeguarding Reps.