Bristol church to be re-dedicated

Father Richard McKay says the re-dedication is for the whole of Bristol

The Bishop of Clifton will celebrate the re-dedication of St Nicholas of Tolentino Church, following major renovations.

Right Reverend Declan Lang will be conducting the celebration on 5 February, 2009 at 7pm.

St Nicholas's Parish Priest, Father Richard McKay, said: "The community at St Nick's have worked so hard for years to get to this day."

St Nick's is the oldest purpose-built Catholic church in Bristol.

His Excellency Dr Francis Moto, Malawian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, will be present at the special mass. Dr Moto was invited because the new church features beautiful artwork crafted in Malawi.

I invite all of Bristol to join our celebration and rejoice in the richness of our diverse city Father Richard McKay

St Nick's Parish Priest, Father Richard McKay, said: "It marks our dedication to being a community of all nations serving the people of Bristol's inner-city.

"Bishop Declan along with so many others have supported us on our journey as we rebuilt our church - but the real church is the people."

"This day is not just for us at St Nick's - I invite all of Bristol to join our celebration and rejoice in the richness of our diverse city."

Guests include Stephen Williams MP, Councillors Brenda Hugill and Sue O'Donnell, prison chaplains and other ecumenical representatives.

The Lord Mayor of Bristol will be represented by Alderman Bill Martin.

Councillor Hugill said: "I fully support the amazing work Father McKay's does work in Bristol.

"I am full of admiration for the help given by the people of St Nick's to all members of our extremely diverse community."

The mass is open to all and parking is available at the nearby St Nicholas of Tolentine School.

There are behind-the-scenes pictures and podcasts, which show the changes taking place, on the Clifton Diocese website.