Ambitious plans for a year-long celebration to mark 150 years of St Peter’s Catholic Church are now well underway.

The landmark anniversary in 2019 will involve several key events to ensure everyone in the community has chance to join in the celebrations.

And a dedicated 150th anniversary committee has been formed to ensure the milestone year runs smoothly.

On the exact anniversary – 14 September – a celebratory Mass will be held at 12noon, celebrated by Bishop Marcus Stock, now Bishop of Leeds but a former parish priest of St Peter’s.

Prior to this the current parish priest, Fr David Doran, is planning a three-week pilgrimage on behalf of the parish as he walks the Camino de Santiago in Spain in August. It is anticipated this will be a fundraising event.

A Churches Together, Songs of Praise-style event, is planned for June 29, on the Parish’s Patronal Feast, the Solemnity of SS Peter and Paul.

The anniversary year will also see significant renovations at the Life Shop charity shop, including bringing counselling rooms back into use.

St Peter’s is also to become a nominated site to support the newly established local foodbank.

“Next year is truly significant in the life of our church and as such will be properly celebrated,” said Fr Doran.

“A whole host of events are being planned to ensure everyone has chance to mark this milestone anniversary.”

Additionally, Fr Doran is hoping to obtain a Papal blessing for the people of St Peter’s, and the Parish Sisters – Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of Christ – will also deliver their own unique celebration.

Lots of social events are also scheduled over the year including a dance, quiz nights and an open air Mass in the countryside.

To find out what the committee is planning, and how you can contribute your memories, please click here

Photos courtesy of Adrian Mealey.