The following is a list of various groups and activities we have within our parish.
Angel Tree
Providing Christmas gifts to children at risk of being empty handed on December 25th.
Choir/Singing Group
At each church we have a choir/singing group. Singing and music uplifts the congregation and is a wonderful way to communicate the word of God.
Church Cleaning
This is a practical way of fulfilling your Ministry to God, creating a warm, prayerful environment.
Coffee Mornings
St Mary’s and Immaculate Heart of Mary Churches, both offer tea/coffee after the Sunday Masses. This is a time to socialise and catch up on weekly news.
Flower Arranging
This ministry adds more colour and beauty to our churches whether for our weekly Masses or for other special occasions.
India Project
Balamma Satram was set up in 2005, working for the displaced and marginalised people from the Diocese of Cuddaph under the leadership of Father Sarves. This community shelters, feeds and clothes the elderly, looking after their medical needs. The young are also looked after in the same way, with the added gift of education. They are all shown love, care and made to feel safe. You can read more about this project here
Kenya Project
Our longstanding link with Kenya has supported a wide range of activities over time including the funding of major water projects, support for medical centres, schools and orphanages as well as regular ‘flexible funding’ to be used for the immediate needs of those in most need. The funds that are generously donated from our 3 parishes are channelled through trusted contacts, usually the Little Sisters of St Francis and recipients commit to providing updates on how the money is spent.
Missio
Missio is the official charity of the Catholic Church for overseas mission which shares the light of Christ by training priests, building churches and combating injustice, disease, poverty and exploitation in many countries. It relies solely on donations to carry out this work; having a red mission box in your home to collect any spare coins is an easy way to provide financial support. Each parish has a local secretary/ treasurer who can give you a red box and will organise the collection and banking of your money or offer advice on making direct debit contributions.
NE First Credit Union Ltd
NE First Credit Union Ltd offers savings and low-cost loans to its members. A service point for NE First Credit Union is held at the back of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church every Sunday after 11a.m. Mass. If you would like to join or want more information please contact:
Gateshead office – Tel. 0191 4784220
Email – gateshead@nefirstcu.co.uk
Website – www.nefirstcu.co.uk
Prayer Group
A weekly prayer group led by parishioners
Every Wednesday at 6.30pm at Immaculate Heart Church, Lobley Hill.
Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA)
This is a course designed for adults who are interested in joining the Church.
Contact Fr Jeff for further details.
SVP
The core work of the SVP is to visit and befriend people in need, providing practical and moral support through one to one contact. The SVP also run community shops in areas of need, provide holidays for children at St Ozanam Holy Island camp, and operate approved premises which accommodates offenders on Statutory orders. The SVP provide vital support to SVP groups in India, Sudan, Grenada and Guyana through the international twinning scheme.