East Anglia: Centenary celebrations in Dereham

Centenary celebrations at Sacred Heart & St Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Dereham

Source: Diocese of East Anglia

The Sacred Heart & St Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Dereham, Norfolk, celebrated a momentous milestone on 25 July - 100 years of faith, service, and community.

The centenary celebration began at 6pm with a solemn Mass, presided over by Bishop Peter Collins as the principal celebrant and concelebrated by priests. The Church was filled with joy as parishioners gathered in worship. Bishop Peter, in his homily, spoke of the parish as a place of "encounter with God," a living witness to the enduring presence of Christ in the heart of Dereham.

Following the Mass, a festive banquet was held, bringing together clergy, parishioners, and guests in an atmosphere of fellowship and gratitude.

Among the honoured guests was Mayor of Dereham, Ray O'Callahan, whose presence underscored the Church's lasting contribution to the civic and spiritual life of the town.

More than a look back, the centenary marked a living legacy of faith, with mission at its very heart.