
Representatives from across the new Catholic Parish of Weybridge gathered on 30 April for their fourth meeting. Reflecting on the group’s first year, Canon Chris Spain described the journey as “a marathon, not a sprint,” recognising that change takes time. Important foundations have been established since the launch of the diocesan Pastoral Plan, including closer collaboration between clergy, regular meetings of parish secretaries, and the development of parish-wide groups for finance, communications, IT, and formation.
A strong theme throughout the evening was the importance of shared leadership and the contribution of lay people in helping parish communities flourish.
The meeting also looked ahead to future priorities, including strengthening outreach to young people and schools, developing opportunities for formation and mission, and building a stronger sense of belonging across the parish. One of the highlights of the evening was hearing about the new Friendly Café initiative at Christ the Prince of Peace, Weybridge, which is already helping to combat loneliness and create community. The overall tone of the meeting was hopeful, collaborative, and realistic, with a shared commitment to growing together as a welcoming and missionary parish community.
Watch the short film below to find out more about the new Parish of Weybridge:
Source: St Cuthbert’s Facebook page