Inaugural Prayer Meeting St Mary’s Care Home

The first prayer meeting for Catholic residents at St Mary’s Care Home, 340 Chanterlands Avenue, will take place on Friday 12th December at 2.00pm, marking the beginning of a gentle new outreach that will bring regular prayer, companionship, and pastoral support to those living in the home. This gathering represents an important step in ensuring that residents who can no longer attend church in person still feel connected to their faith and to the wider parish community.

For the residents, the benefits are significant. Many have long-standing ties to parish life and will welcome the chance to pray together once again, to hear familiar prayers, and to experience a sense of peace and spiritual comfort. For some, the simple presence of volunteers praying with them offers reassurance and a reminder that they remain valued members of the Church. The prayer meeting also provides an opportunity for quiet reflection, shared intercession, and, for those who wish, a space to talk about their faith or request prayers for loved ones.

The volunteers leading the prayers also gain much from the experience. Bringing prayer into the care home is a meaningful expression of Christian service, offering them the privilege of accompanying residents in a gentle, pastoral way. Leading prayer within such a setting strengthens a sense of mission, deepens compassion, and allows volunteers to share faith in a simple but powerful form. It is hoped that these meetings will grow into a regular ministry, enriching both residents and volunteers through shared prayer, presence, and community. If anyone wishes to join us please contact Patrick Doyle via email