Welcome to Our Parish — You’re So Welcome Here

Whether you've never been to church before, haven't been in a long time, or have just moved into the area — you are very welcome at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, which serves the churches of Saint Gabriel’s and Corpus Christi here in Middlesbrough.

We understand that walking into a church can feel like a big step — especially if it's new to you. Please be assured: you won’t be judged, tested, or singled out. We’re simply glad you’re here, and we’d love to meet you.

Our parish is a community of ordinary people trying to follow Jesus Christ. Some of us come every week. Some haven’t been for years. Some are exploring faith for the first time. Wherever you’re coming from, we hope you’ll find a place here that feels safe, meaningful, and full of hope.

What to Expect

If you come to Mass on a Sunday, you’ll find a mix of families, older people, young adults, and children. There’s no dress code — just come as you are. We won’t ask you to do or say anything you're uncomfortable with. If you're unfamiliar with Catholic worship, it's absolutely okay to just watch, listen, and take it in at your own pace.

There’s a printed sheet to help you follow along, and if you’re unsure what to do, someone nearby will always be happy to guide you.

New to the Area?

If you’ve recently moved into the parish, do get in touch and let us know you’re here — we’d be delighted to welcome you personally. You can drop us an email, phone the parish office, or introduce yourself after Mass.

Returning After Some Time Away?

Coming back to church after being away for a while can feel daunting. Please know — there’s no need to explain or apologise. Life brings all sorts of twists and turns. God never stops waiting for us, and neither do we.

If you'd like to speak to a priest or simply talk to someone about your journey, that’s what we're here for. You’re not alone.

Thinking About Faith for the First Time?

Maybe you’re feeling drawn to explore something deeper. Maybe life has raised questions that led you here. If so — that’s potentally 'a holy nudge', and it’s worth listening to.

We run regular opportunities to learn about the Catholic faith in a gentle, no-pressure setting. You don’t need to commit to anything — just come along, ask questions, or sit quietly and reflect.

We’d Love to Hear from You

If you’d like to connect, you can email us via the form below, give us a call, or simply say hello after Mass. You can also follow our parish on Facebook or join us on YouTube where our 11am Sunday Mass is livestreamed from Saint Gabriel’s.

Whatever has brought you this far — welcome. Truly. You have a place here.

From the Parish Priest — A Welcome

 

Sometimes we find ourselves drawn to places we weren’t expecting — a church, a quiet moment, or even a page like this one.

If you’re here because something’s stirred — a question, a memory, a sense of longing — you’re not alone. I’m Fr James, the priest here at the Parish of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, which includes the church communities of Saint Gabriel’s and Corpus Christi.

This is a parish trying to be rooted in prayer, simplicity, and welcome. We’re a people shaped not by having all the answers, but by trusting that God meets us in the middle of our lives — even the messy or uncertain parts. You don’t need to be sure of anything to be here. You don’t need to explain yourself. Just come as you are.

You’re very welcome here — and if something has been quietly calling you back, or calling you for the first time, I gently encourage you to pay attention to it. This is often how a life of blessings begins.

Fr James

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