Join our Parish & Mission
The Parish of St Hugh of Lincoln is a Catholic community based at Buckden Towers and entrusted to the care of the Claretian Missionaries.
The Claretian Missionaries are a religious congregation founded to proclaim the Gospel with particular attention to social justice, reconciliation, and solidarity with those on the margins of society. This missionary charism shapes every aspect of parish life at St Hugh’s.
Our parish understands faith not simply as something practised privately, but as something lived together in community and expressed through worship, service, hospitality, and care for others. We seek to be a parish where all are welcome, regardless of background, personal history, or current circumstances.
Buckden Towers is owned and cared for by the Claretian Missionaries and also serves as a retreat and conference centre. The parish works closely with the Diocese of East Anglia while maintaining a distinct administrative arrangement through the Claretians.
Mass Times, Chapels & Prayer
The celebration of the Eucharist lies at the heart of parish life.
Mass is celebrated regularly in the following chapels at Buckden Towers:
Claret Chapel
Main Church
Lady Chapel
Weekend and weekday Mass times, as well as Holy Days of Obligation and special liturgies, are published on the parish website and in the weekly newsletter.
The parish also welcomes requests for Mass intentions and prayer intentions. These may be offered for the living or the dead and are an important way the community supports one another in prayer.
Alongside the Eucharist, parishioners are encouraged to deepen their prayer life through quiet reflection, personal prayer, and participation in special liturgical seasons.
This week’s Newsletter
Anniversaries this week
Journey in Faith / RCIA (Adults)
The Journey in Faith (also known as RCIA – the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) is for adults who are exploring the Catholic faith.
This journey is open to:
- Those who have never been baptised
- Those baptised in another Christian tradition seeking full communion with the Catholic Church
- Baptised Catholics who have not received Confirmation or First Holy Communion
The process respects each person’s story and pace. It is not a course with exams or pressure, but a journey of conversation, prayer, and reflection.
Sessions explore the foundations of Christian faith, Scripture, the sacraments, and life in the Church, while offering space for questions and honest dialogue.
Returning to Faith
Many people experience times when they feel distant from the Church for a variety of personal or life reasons.
The Parish of St Hugh of Lincoln wishes to make it very clear: you are welcome.
If you have been away from the Church, feel uncertain about your place, or believe that aspects of your life make participation difficult, we invite you to come and talk with one of the priests or members of the pastoral team.
Inspired by the words of St Paul, the parish believes that nothing can separate us from the love of God. We aim to accompany people gently, respectfully, and without judgement.
Eucharistic Ministers & Pastoral Care
Eucharistic Ministers play a vital role in the liturgical and pastoral life of the parish.
They assist the priest in the distribution of Holy Communion during Mass and bring Communion to parishioners who are sick, elderly, or housebound.
This ministry is rooted in dignity, reverence, and care, recognising that those unable to attend Mass remain full members of the Body of Christ.
All Eucharistic Ministers receive training, safeguarding support, and ongoing formation. Those interested in this ministry are encouraged to speak with a priest or a current minister.
Parish Life, Newsletter & Calendar
Parish life extends beyond liturgy into shared community and service.
The parish hosts a range of social, charitable, and community-focused activities throughout the year, helping to build relationships and respond to local needs.
A weekly parish newsletter provides updates on Mass times, events, reflections, and important notices. A parish calendar highlights upcoming activities and celebrations.
Parish life is shaped by the belief that faith grows through encounter, participation, and shared responsibility.
Administration, Finance & Gift Aid
The Parish of St Hugh of Lincoln is committed to transparency and responsible stewardship.
Parish income is administered through the Claretian Missionaries Trust. This arrangement ensures that diocesan levies are met and that remaining funds are used to support parish activities, maintenance of the church and facilities, and future development projects.
Parishioners are encouraged to support the mission of the parish through regular giving and Gift Aid, which allows the parish to reclaim tax on eligible donations.
Safeguarding & Health and Safety
The Claretian Missionaries are committed to safeguarding children, young people, and adults at risk. They are also committed to supporting those who may have experienced abuse in Church situations. one service they support is ‘Safe Spaces‘ an independent and confidential support service.
Safeguarding policies and procedures are in place to ensure a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all who participate in parish life.
Safeguarding training is required for those involved in ministries and volunteering roles. Any concerns can be raised with the parish safeguarding representatives or clergy.
Administration, Finance & Gift Aid
If you are new to the parish or have recently moved into the area, we warmly invite you to register as a parishioner.
Registration helps the parish offer appropriate pastoral care and keep you informed about parish life.
The parish office can be contacted for enquiries about sacraments, volunteering, pastoral support, or general information.
Application forms for sacramental preparation and parish involvement are available through the parish website or office.