Balham, London
Welcome to the website of the Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Nightingale Square. The Holy Ghost parish covers a large part of the area between Wandsworth, Clapham and Tooting Commons. We are an expanding Catholic community always keen to welcome new members whether as individuals, families or 'returning Catholics'.
At the Holy Ghost you will find simple, dignified Liturgy. Special provision is made for children at our 9.30am Family Mass, while the 11.00am Sung Mass and the Liturgical festivals are solemnly celebrated with Gregorian Chant and a polyphonic Choir. The Church is above all a house of prayer and usually remains open throughout the day for private prayer. The Sacrament of Penance is available at a fixed time each day.
In addition to our outstanding parish primary school, the Holy Ghost Catholic School, our parish is fortunate in having an independent Prep School for Catholic children (Oliver House) and also an excellent Sixth Form College (St Francis Xavier). The parish itself offers a complete programme of catechesis for people of all ages: children and young adults as well as adults. This programme of catechesis 'from the cradle to the grave' is possible thanks to the dedication of parishioners who have sought formal qualifications in passing on the faith.
The parish has a special concern for its ministry to young people. There are weekly meetings during term time and each year we host a New Year Retreat welcoming over three hundred young adults. The parish priest is also the Vocations Director for the Archdiocese of Southwark and the parish in many ways offers a stable home for vocations events and the work of promoting vocations.
We look forward to meeting you in the parish. Please do introduce yourselves to one of the priests when you come.