People have different reasons for thinking about becoming a Catholic

            In our parish we invite you to a series of meetings where you can learn more about the Church and find out what it means to be a Catholic. You are welcome to ask questions and to share your interest with others in the same situation. It does not matter whether you are baptised or not , or whether you are a practicing Christian or indeed know very little about Christianity. You are welcome

The meetings are informal and enjoyable. They begin in September at a time to suit those hoping to attend. The following months are a period of enquiry - there is no commitment or expectation that you will carry on to the next stage.

The meetings continue all through the year and so too does your growing familiarity  with the Mass,with Catholic prayers and belief, your understanding of the Gospel and the teachings of the Church. You will be supported at these meetings by a sponsor - someone who accompanies you as guide, companion and friend. And by a members of the parish who act as catechists - people who share with you their faith and understanding.

At the beginning of Lent - usually in March - you will be invited to the Rite of Election in the Cathedral in Shrewsbury.  Together with people from across the Diocese who feel ready to make the commitment to become members of the Church, you will be welcomed by Bishop Brian and called by name as one of the elect.

The following weeks of Lent are a period of intense preparation. Those who are ready will become members of the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil, the central celebration of the Church, by initiation through the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist. If you have been baptised or confirmed then these Sacraments would not be repeated. The whole parish community celebrates and welcome to its new members with a party afterwards in the Parish Centre

After the joy and excitement of Easter the meetings continue until the Feast of Pentecost, another fifty days. This is a time for reflecting on your journey in faith so far as a part of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, and on the journey that will continue for the rest of your life.