Our Catholic Life

St James the Less & St Helen Catholic Church, Priory Street, Colchester

Just a few hundred yards from St Thomas More's, our church is a regular part of our daily school life.

Central to our Catholic identity is a strong relationship with our parish community. We work closely with our parish priest and parish church to nurture the spiritual development of every child in our school.

Our children participate in parish and school Masses throughout the year. Classes take turns preparing readings, prayers and offertory gifts, helping pupils take an active role in the liturgy and deepen their understanding of the faith.

Our parish priests have always been a regular and welcoming presence in school. They lead assemblies, support the children’s religious education, and spend time visiting classrooms. Their guidance helps our pupils connect scripture and faith with everyday life.

In addition to Mass, children take part in liturgies, collective worship, seasonal celebrations, and prayer services both in school and at the church.

We work in partnership with the parish to support children preparing for the sacraments of Reconciliation, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation. Families, the parish, and the school join together to ensure that sacramental programmes are meaningful and well-supported.

Mass Times

MONDAY to FRIDAY - 9:30 am

SATURDAY - 9:30 am

SUNDAY - 8:00 am, 10:30 am, 6:30 pm

HOLY DAYS - 9:30 am, 12:15 pm, 7:30 pm

POLISH MASS - Sunday 2:00 pm

FILIPINO MASS - 1st Sunday of each Month 4:00 pm

RECONCILIATION - Saturday After Mass