Our Parish

At St. John's Catholic Primary School, our strong relationship with the parish plays an essential role in nurturing the faith life of our children. We believe that integrating parish life into the daily experiences of our students enhances their spiritual growth and sense of community. Our students regularly attend Mass at the parish, participating in significant liturgical celebrations alongside parishioners. In return, parishioners are always warmly invited to join us for Masses held at the school. Parents are encouraged to participate in these celebrations, making these moments a shared expression of faith and community.

One of the unique aspects of our connection with the parish is the active involvement of the children in the preparation of these liturgies. Whether it’s reading, serving, or presenting offerings, our students take ownership of these sacred moments, deepening their personal connection to their faith. This hands-on involvement allows them to better understand and appreciate the richness of Catholic worship, fostering both leadership skills and spiritual awareness. For many students, these school-led Masses are their main opportunity to regularly attend and actively participate in the Eucharist, which strengthens their faith in a meaningful way. This is particularly important for students who may not regularly attend Mass at home, as it ensures they have a lived experience of their faith that is both consistent and community-oriented.

Throughout the school year, we celebrate many special occasions that highlight our partnership with the parish. For example, pupils who have received their First Holy Communion are honored with a special Mass, where they are recognized by the school and parish community. Year 6 students also celebrate a special Leavers' Mass with their families and peers before moving on to secondary school. At this Mass, each student receives a cross as a symbol of their ongoing relationship with St. John’s Catholic Primary School, signifying that they will always remain a part of our community, even after they transition to the next chapter of their lives.

In addition to these significant celebrations, our Parish Priest, Fr. Denis, plays an active role in the spiritual development of our students. He visits the school regularly, fostering a close connection between the parish and the school. Fr. Denis celebrates Mass with us throughout the year, organizes school and parish Masses on special feast days, and works with our staff to ensure that students have regular opportunities for worship and reflection. During Lent, he comes to administer the Sacrament of Reconciliation, allowing the children to experience God’s mercy and grace during this important season.

Our annual Christmas Carol service and other seasonal celebrations are held at the parish church, drawing large numbers of parents, parishioners, and community members. These events not only serve as joyous expressions of faith but also reinforce the close-knit bond between our school and parish family.

Together, these regular interactions with the parish ensure that the children of St. John's Catholic Primary School experience their faith as something vibrant and active, deeply embedded in both their school and parish communities. This ongoing relationship supports our mission to provide a well-rounded Catholic education where faith, learning, and community thrive together.

The Roman Catholic Church of Holy Trinity and St Augustine of Canterbury, Baldock

Holy Trinity Church,

London Road,

Baldock,

Herts

SG7 6LQ.

contact:01462 893127 

or baldock@rcdow.org.uk