St Swithun Wells Parish Vision
The vision of our Parish is summed up in one sentence:
Our vision is the awe in front of a Person, Jesus Christ, the fount of true happiness, who is present in the sign of our Christian community.
Our community is a place where everyone is encouraged to establish a personal relationshop with Jesus Christ and to become one with Him, especially in learning how to love each other and take care of those in need. We believe that a community which fosters a personal relationship with Jesus Christ will be able to reach out and become truly missionary.
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Last weekend at St Swithun Wells Church I read to the congregation the letter from Bishop Philip announcing his decision to close St Swithun Wells Church, Fair Oak, for regular public worship. I know that this news has brought sadness to many, not only within that community but across our whole parish family of six churches.
In his letter of 26th January 2026, the Bishop explains that, “after a sustained period of prayer, consultation, and careful consideration… I have taken the difficult decision to close St Swithun Wells Church… for regular public worship.”
He is clear that this decision “is not a judgement on the faith, generosity, or commitment of those who have worshipped in this church over many years,” but reflects “the pastoral reality of the parish today and the need to plan responsibly for the future.”
The last Mass at St Swithun Wells Church will be celebrated on Saturday 14th March at 5pm. I warmly invite parishioners from across the parish to join us on that day as we give thanks for the many graces received there: baptisms, marriages, funerals, and countless quiet moments of prayer.
The Bishop reminds us that “the Church is not the building alone, but the living Body of Christ, gathered around the Eucharist and sent out on mission: ‘You yourselves are God’s building’ (1 Corinthians 3:9)”
Please take time to read the Bishop’s full letter on our parish website. Let us pray for one another, especially for those most affected, and ask the Lord to guide us as we continue to build up His Church together.
With my prayers and blessing,
Fr Raffaele
PAMIS, ChurchSuite and Parish Census
We’re moving our parishioner database from PAMIS to ChurchSuite. ChurchSuite is a market leader and has good data protection measures. Please make sure that you register yourself and your children, using the online form that you can find below. Please note there is one form for adults and a separate one for children.
This will help us to have a clear picture of our parish. Thank you to those who have already completed this.
For queries, please contact Christina at accounts@stswithunwellsparish.org.uk
