Following the collapse of the church ceiling in November 2020, it had only been possible to celebrate Mass in the parish hall at Holy Trinity in Bilston, part of the St. Newman Cluster, or to join remotely using the livestream.

Sunday 1st May 2022 was therefore a day of great rejoicing as the Cluster welcomed His Grace, Archbishop Longley to Holy Trinity Church, Bilston, following the renovation of the church ceiling. 

Mass was broadcast live into the parish hall as the church was overflowing with parishioners who had gathered to celebrate this important moment in the life of their church. They gathered together to rejoice that they are now able to celebrate Mass in the church once more.

Cluster Parish Priest, Father Craig Fullard, also praised the work undertaken by the four churches as they progress to becoming one parish - four churches but very much one faith family now. 

During the Mass Archbishop Bernard thanked parishioners for their faithfulness to the mission set before them by the Lord. 

The Archbishop was presented with a ‘limited edition’ St. Newman Cluster Pen Holder, made from a piece of the roof beam (original one from 1833) which has now been replaced as part of the renovation works.  

At the end of Mass His Grace kindly, at the request of the present Altar Servers, blessed a picture of Mr Bill Allcock who until his death had served at the Altar for over 70 years and had been such an inspiration to so many servers and parishioners over the years. The picture will hang in the Servers’ Vestry (known as Bill’s Room) as a reminder of the inspiration he has been and as a reminder to pray for him as well. 

Finally, the children of Holy Trinity Primary School led the crowning of Our Lady as we began her Month of May. The May Queen was assisted by good number of her fellow students and staff. 

A wonderful celebration then took place in hall where His Grace was able to meet new and old friends. 

Photo Gallery

Mass Recording

Ongoing fundraising

Fundraising continues to pay for the ceiling renovations. The overall cost is £110,000.00. So far parishioners have raised £50,000.00. If you’d like to donate to their fundraising efforts please visit: 

Help the ceiling restoration

Fr Craig wishes to thank all those who helped with the celebration and to the school and the school children who attended.

For more information on the St Newman Cluster please visit their website: www.stnewmancluster.org