Get Involved in the Liturgical Life of the Parish
at St Hugh of Lincoln, Buckden Towers
At Buckden Towers, the parish of St Hugh of Lincoln is part of a living heritage: a place of prayer, welcome, and community set within a historic setting.
The life of the parish depends on the generosity of those who give their time and gifts in service. Whether through liturgy, hospitality, or formation, each ministry contributes to the mission of the Church here at Buckden—to be a place of encounter, faith, and welcome for all.
Eucharistic Ministers
At St Hugh’s, Eucharistic Ministers assist in distributing Holy Communion during Mass and may also take Communion to parishioners who are sick or housebound in the local area.
Given the pastoral setting of Buckden, this ministry often extends beyond the church building into homes and care settings, helping maintain a vital connection with those unable to attend Mass.
Ministers are trained and commissioned, and are asked to approach this role with reverence, discretion, and a spirit of prayer.
Readers (Lectors)
Readers at St Hugh’s proclaim the Word of God during Mass, helping bring Scripture to life within the historic setting of Buckden Towers.
This ministry involves careful preparation, clear delivery, and an appreciation of the rhythm of the liturgy. Readers play an essential role in helping the congregation engage with the Word of God in a meaningful and prayerful way.
Hospitality and Welcome
Buckden Towers welcomes a wide range of visitors—parishioners, retreat guests, and those exploring the site.
The ministry of welcome ensures that all who enter St Hugh’s Church feel received and at ease. This may include greeting people at Mass, assisting visitors unfamiliar with the parish, and helping create an atmosphere that reflects the openness of the wider Buckden community.
This is often the first point of contact for newcomers and plays a key role in the parish’s outreach.
Church Cleaning
Caring for the church at Buckden Towers is an important shared responsibility.
Volunteers help maintain the beauty and cleanliness of the church, ensuring it remains a fitting place for prayer within this historic setting. This may involve regular cleaning, preparing the church before liturgies, and helping after major celebrations.
This quiet ministry supports the dignity of worship and the welcome offered to all who visit.
Church Decorations
The setting of Buckden Towers offers a unique opportunity to express the beauty of the liturgy through the environment.
Those involved in decoration help prepare the church for the seasons of the Church’s year—Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter—as well as weddings and special celebrations. Flower arranging and visual preparation contribute to a prayerful and uplifting atmosphere that reflects both tradition and creativity.
Anointing of the Sick
This sacrament offers healing, strength, and peace to those who are seriously ill, elderly, or preparing for surgery.
How to arrange:
• Contact the parish priest at any time.
• In emergencies, please call the parish as soon as possible.
The sacrament may be celebrated at home, in hospital, or in church.
Children’s Liturgy
At the 10:00am Mass, children are invited to take part in Children’s Liturgy, where they explore the Gospel in an accessible and engaging way.
This ministry helps young members of the parish feel at home in the Church and supports families in nurturing faith. Volunteers guide children through Scripture using storytelling, discussion, and simple activities.
It is an important part of parish life, especially in a community where families may travel some distance to attend Mass at Buckden.
Catechism Classes
Catechesis at St Hugh’s supports children and families in growing in faith, particularly in preparation for the sacraments.
Given the rural context of Buckden and the distance from Catholic schools, this ministry plays a vital role. Sessions are offered to support First Holy Communion and other aspects of faith formation, often working in partnership with parents.
This is a ministry of teaching, accompaniment, and encouragement in the life of faith.
Music and Choir
Music is an important part of the liturgy at St Hugh’s, enhancing prayer and participation.
The choir and musicians help lead the congregation in singing, particularly at the 10:00am Mass and during major feasts. This may include preparing hymns, supporting seasonal liturgies, and contributing to the distinctive atmosphere of worship within Buckden Towers.
All who are interested in singing or playing are warmly encouraged to take part.
Sound and Technical Support
Given the size and acoustics of the church at Buckden Towers, sound support plays an important role.
Volunteers assist with microphones and sound systems to ensure that readings, prayers, and music can be heard clearly by all. This is especially important when welcoming larger congregations or visitors unfamiliar with the space.
It is a practical but essential ministry supporting the liturgy.
Altar Servers
Altar servers assist the priest during Mass, helping ensure that the liturgy is carried out with care and reverence.
At Buckden, serving at the altar also connects young people more deeply with the life of the Church. Servers learn the structure of the Mass and take an active role in its celebration.
This ministry is particularly encouraged for young members of the parish and those wishing to grow in their participation in the liturgy.
Safeguarding
The Parish of St Hugh of Lincoln at Buckden Towers is committed to safeguarding and the protection of all, especially children and vulnerable adults.
In line with diocesan safeguarding policies, those involved in certain ministries will be required to undergo safeguarding checks (such as DBS checks) and complete appropriate training.
Safeguarding is an essential part of parish life and a shared responsibility for all who serve.
A Shared Mission
Each of these ministries reflects the wider mission of Buckden Towers: to be a place of welcome, faith, and encounter.
By offering your time and gifts, you become part of a living community that continues the long history of prayer and service on this site.
If you would like to become involved, please speak with the parish priest or a member of the parish team.