Whose spirit watches over Saint Brigid’s Roman Catholic Church? We stand before Saint Brigid’s on Grey Mare Lane. Its story echoes with the resilience of faith and community. Saint Brigid’s journey began in 1879 on Mill Street, a seed planted by the nearby St Anne’s Ancoats. Imagine the bustling energy as the first school-chapel rose. In 1880, Father William Sassen, a Dutch priest, became the parish priest. He guided the flock for an impressive thirty-five years. The first church building opened its doors in 1884, a beacon of hope in the growing community. A larger church followed in 1901, its re-consecration a testament to the burgeoning congregation. The parish hall, added in 1971, became a hub for gatherings and celebrations. Saint Brigid’s celebrated its centenary in 1979, marking a century of faith and service. However, change was inevitable. In 1995, the Mill Street church made way for progress, demolished to accommodate a new road. Undeterred, the spirit of Saint Brigid’s found a new home. The converted parish hall on Grey Mare Lane became the third church building. The first Mass held here in August 1995 symbolized the enduring strength of the parish. So, as you gaze upon Saint Brigid’s, remember its journey. It is a story of adaptation, resilience, and unwavering faith.
Pendleton Sixth Form College
Opened in 1973, Pendleton Sixth Form College has a rich history. It’s not just a building. It’s a crucible where