It was now-retired Bishop Christopher Budd who nicknamed Holy Ghost Church in Exmouth “The Party Parish”. It is Bishop Mark O’Toole, based in Plymouth for the past two years, who will join in as Holy Ghost celebrates its Centenary. The party mood is proving catching, with Hog Roasts, Teddy Bears’ Picnics (a one-hundred-strong Baptism Party), renewal of Wedding Vows’ celebration for 100 couples married in the Church, and a Pensioners’ Cream Tea, all based on the theme of 100 years of Roman Catholic presence in the Town.
The Church is welcoming visitors with beautiful flower decorations, a glowing new stainedglass window (installed just last May to start the Centenary Year off), free refreshments and smiles.
Open Days run from Saturday May 2nd to Tuesday May 5th when the church will be available for all to visit from 12.00pm to 5.00pm. On Wednesday May 6th the Centenary Day itself will be marked by two services to which everyone is most welcome, at 10.00am especially for the children of St Joseph’s Catholic School, Regent’s Gate, and another service at 7.30pm at whichBishop Mark will celebrate Mass in thanksgiving for the Anniversary. Special invitees include the Mayors of Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton, and Exmouth’s own well-known Town Cryer.
Father Philip Austen, Parish Priest says, “The evening service in particular promises to be one full of joy, colour and music. Our doors are open to everyone who lives in Exmouth and all can be sure of a really warm welcome. We very much want to share this happy event with as many people as possible. Pope Francis has set a new tone for the Church. He encourages us to ‘look outward’ and demonstrate warm friendship to all our neighbours. By organizing these open events and welcoming visitors and parishioners alike, we are responding enthusiastically to his encouragements”.
Holy Ghost will also be open all day on Polling Day, Thursday 07 May, as there is a polling station in the Church Hall next door.
Further information can be obtained from The Parish Office, 01395 263384