A Celebration of Faith and Community
The Jubilee Year at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Dorchester, has been a profound and joyous journey, embracing parishioners of all ages in faith, fellowship, and service. Under the spiritual leadership of Father Babu Francis, guided by the clergy, with the support of dedicated and diverse planning committee, this sacred year has embodied the spirit of unity, renewal, and inclusivity, ensuring that everyone regardless of background or experience, feels welcomed and valued.
A Joyous Beginning
In preparation for our Jubilee Year, parishioners gathered for a Cleaning Drive on Saturday 22nd February 2025, ensuring Holy Trinity was a welcoming space for worship and celebration. The Jubilee Opening Mass on 23rd February 2025 marked the official commencement of celebrations. Presided over by Canon John Webb, the Mass was a moment of grace, joy, and reflection. The newly refurbished organ filled the church with uplifting music, led by the choir, while the Children’s Liturgy and Catechism groups brought vibrant energy through singing and dancing. Symbolizing hope and renewal, a Jubilee rose was planted in the church garden, and parishioners received ‘Seeds of Hope’ to take home as reminders of spiritual growth. An illustrated map highlighted the global connections within our diverse congregation. The day concluded with blessed cake, tea, and warm fellowship, making it a truly memorable start to our Jubilee Year.
Youth Engagement and Spiritual Growth
As part of our Jubilee celebrations, inspiring young people has remained central to our mission. On 1st March 2025, Holy Trinity welcomed the Youth Group from St Mary’s Parish, Poole for a retreat led by Deacon Nick Johnson and catechists. Discussions, inspired by Youth Alpha, explored faith and history, while an interactive tour deepened their connection to our sacred space. To enrich their experience, Deacon Jonathan led a dynamic tour of the church, made even more engaging with a fun competition. Pilgrims honoured the Dorset Martyrs in prayer, concluding with reflection and fellowship, strengthening friendships and spiritual journeys.
Honouring the Spirit of Service
Volunteers are the heartbeat of our parish and diocese, and their unwavering dedication was celebrated on 15th March 2025 at the Jubilee of the World of Volunteering. A special Mass was held to honour those who serve, recognizing their invaluable contributions to our church and beyond. During the celebration, we paid tribute to Edgar Riches, a devoted CAFOD volunteer whose legacy of faith-filled service continues to inspire. The event brought together organizations such as CAFOD, CWL, Caritas, Stella Maris, SVP, Catenians, and Aid to the Church in Need, reaffirming the vital role of volunteerism in building a compassionate and faithful community. The efforts of the Jubilee Volunteers of Holy Trinity uplifted all who attended, filling the gathering with a profound sense of gratitude and unity.
Pilgrimage of Hope
Pilgrimage holds deep spiritual significance, and on 14th April 2025, two pilgrims from Bridport Parish set out on a journey from Chideock to Dorchester, marking their pilgrimage with prayers and reflections. Upon arrival, they were welcomed with refreshments and had their pilgrim passports stamped, symbolizing their ongoing spiritual journey. Their pilgrimage will continue when they return for the Jubilee Mass for married couples.
Celebrating Love and Commitment
On 11th May 2025, love and lifelong commitment were celebrated in a special Jubilee Mass for married couples, presided over by Father Babu Francis and clergy. With 80 couples in attendance, the liturgy was enriched by young readers, a moving homily, and a heartfelt renewal of marriage vows. Couples held their wedding rings in blessing before embracing in a profound moment of unity. Children sang joyfully for their parents, adding warmth to the celebration. Each couple received Seeds of Hope and chocolates, commemorating this sacred occasion. A special wedding anniversary was honoured with a cake-cutting ceremony, bringing smiles to all as we celebrated the beauty of love and commitment within our parish.
A Sacred Invitation
Our Jubilee Year continues to celebrate faith, unity, and the strength of our parish community. We warmly invite you to visit Holy Trinity Catholic Church Dorchester, a sacred pilgrimage site where “God’s love is reflected through our Action”. Whether a long-standing member or a visitor seeking renewal, you are welcome to join our Jubilee celebrations. With many events still ahead, we look forward to gathering in faith, hope, and joy, continuing this sacred journey together. May Holy Trinity remain a beacon of light and grace for all.
Thank you to Lawrence from Holy Trinity Church for this reflection.