2nd October 2026 News from our Parish Schools

Parish School pages on our website

This weekend, across both Sunday morning Masses, we warmly welcome the children from our three parish primary schools who are beginning their First Holy Communion preparation programme.

Throughout the Masses, the children and their families will be taking part in a variety of ministries as they begin this important stage of their faith journey. We keep them all in our prayers as they prepare for this special sacrament.

St Joseph's Catholic Primary School

https://stjosephsgilesgate.bwcet.com/

On Sunday 4^th October there will be a Welcome Mass for Holy Communion Families at 10.30am in St Joseph's Church.

·       Tuesday 6^th October,  Parents of children in Year 4 are invited into school at 3.30pm for an information session about the upcoming Youth Ministry Team Residential. Mr. Richardson will share key details about the trip, activities and arrangements. There will also be an opportunity to ask any questions and find out how you can best support your child in preparing for the experience. 

·       Friday 9^th October, we will be wearing yellow in school to celebrate World Mental Health Day. We encourage everyone to join in by wearing something yellow and helping us spread a positive message of kindness and support. Donations of £1 will be greatly received for the charity MIND.

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St Godric's Catholic Primary School

https://stgodricsdurham.bwcet.com/

At St Godric's, we are holding an Open Morning on Wednesday 7^th  October at 10.00am. If you, or anyone you know, is looking at school places for September 2027, please do come along.

There will be a short presentation followed by a tour of the school and an opportunity to meet staff and ask any questions. Everyone is very welcome.

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St Thomas More Catholic Primary School

https://stthomasmorebelmont.bwcet.com/

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St Leonard's Catholic Secondary School

https://stleonardsdurham.bwcet.com/

Journey in Faith 2026 Programme

The Parish of the Durham Martyrs

Journey in Faith 2026-2027

The Journey in Faith Programme begins again on 22^nd October and runs until Easter next year.  The programme is held on Thursday evenings beginning at 7pm in the Jubilee Room at St. Joseph’s Church.

The programme of talks are given by invited speakers from the parish and surrounding area. A copy of the programme will be displayed on each church notice board.

Each session involves a presentation by the invited speaker and some informal group discussion and concludes by 8.30pm, followed by tea and coffee.

The programme generally attracts three categories of people:-

·       Those who are curious and want to know more about the Catholic faith.

·       Those who are already firmly resolved to become Catholics.

·       Parishioners who come along to refresh their own understanding of what lour faith teaches and also and very importantly, to support enquirers and welcome them into our community.

Discussion is always enriched through the attendance of parishioners so you are encouraged to come along and support this.

If you would like any more information please contact Marjorie Towers, Parish Secretary on Marjorie.towers@diocesehn.org.uk or on the parish mobile 07483 369 561.

No Children's Liturgy this weekend

Children's Liturgy is cancelled this week due to Mass being part of the Y4 children's Sacrament of First Holy Communion preparation at both Sunday Masses.