Parish Church
At St Mary and St John, we believe that faith is a lifelong journey, and our strong partnership with our parish helps our children to recognise that they belong not only to our school family, but to the wider family of the Church.
Throughout their time with us, pupils are given meaningful opportunities to worship, celebrate and serve alongside our parish community. Children regularly attend Mass with parishioners at St John’s Church and take an active role in Masses, services and celebrations throughout the liturgical year through prayer, reading, singing and other ministries. Our pupils and choir also support important parish celebrations, including First Holy Communion, while children have shared significant moments in the life of the parish, helping them to develop a genuine sense of belonging to their local Church.
Our partnership is strengthened through the Sacramental Programme, with school, parish and families working together as children prepare for Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. Staff support these celebrations, and school leaders work closely with our Parish Priest, Father Paul Grady, to develop opportunities for pupils to participate in parish Masses and events.
By creating these lasting links between school, home and parish, we want every child to understand that their journey of faith extends far beyond their primary school years. We seek to nurture lifelong learners in faith: young people who know they are part of the Church, who continue to grow in their relationship with God and who are inspired to use their gifts to serve others and live out the Gospel throughout their lives.
