Communion

A real strength of life in Henley Parish is the high quality of the Liturgy, and of involvement of a very wide section of the Parish, Readers, servers, cleaners, flower arrangers and coffee servers work diligently to a series of parish rotas at all three weekend Masses.

A particularly conscientious and respectful group of Eucharistic Ministers assist at the weekend Masses, and more significantly visit sick and housebound members of the Community, as a supplement to Fr. Anthony's own efforts in this regard. This group also meets regularly for prayer

The 10.30 Sung Mass is led by a very able and well-respected choir, and cantor-led singing of the psalms has been a successful innovation, The 10.30 Mass also involves weekly a special Children's Liturgy which really engages the younger members of the community both outside the main body of the church during the early part of Mass, and later as part of the main ceremony. Elder members of the Parish are frequently transported to Mass by a small but dedicated team of volunteer drivers.

Morning and evening prayer is celebrated weekdays before Mass. Rosary is said each Friday morning following the morning Mass. Sacred Heart Primary School is one of the four primary schools in the deanery.    In existence for over 100 years, it provides a vital service for families and parish. The school has over 130 pupils. They come to Mass regularly in Sacred Heart Church.

The younger members of the parish are expertly prepared for First Confession/Holy Communion and later for Confirmation by following appropriate courses conducted by a staunch group of experienced parishioners. Parental involvement is both frequent and intense.

RCIA courses are held bi-annually, resulting in 1-2 adult baptisms /confirmations at the Easter Vigil service.

The weekly newsletter now in its 35th year, has wide circulation.  It is a great source of contact with parishioners. As well as being distributed at the weekend it is circulated to over 120 email addresses, many former parishioners wanting to keep in touch.

The major achievement over almost ten years, but brought to a conclusion in recent months is agreement and commitment to proceed on a re-ordering of the Church both in the sanctuary area and in the entrance/meeting room areas. Fr. Anthony's vision and patience have both figured strongly in this result, but the constant support of the Parish Council, and particularly the Building Committee, has also been essential.