Parish Churches
St. Margaret Clitherow, Keyworth
"A Testament to Faith and Perseverance"
St Margaret Clitherow Church, located in the village of Keyworth, 6 miles SE of Nottingham, stands as a symbol of resilience and dedication. Opened on 24 October 1984 by Bishop McGuinness, the church has become a spiritual home for Catholics in Keyworth and surrounding areas, serving generations of parishioners.
A Historical Journey
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The Early Years
The vision for a church in Keyworth dates back to the late 1950s when Canon John Buckley of West Bridgford began searching for a site. Although he passed away in 1965 without realizing this vision, the Catholic community persevered. Mass was celebrated in private homes, the British Legion building, and local Anglican and Methodist churches, as well as at the Mary Ward Teacher Training College, which opened in 1969.
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Mary Ward Teacher Training College
The college, staffed by Sisters of Loreto, played a central role in the Catholic life of Keyworth until its closure in 1977. Upon its closure, non-Catholic ministers offered their church buildings for Mass. The Methodist Church, being the most suitable, was used for Sunday Mass until a permanent site was secured.
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Building St Margaret Clitherow Church
In 1983, a site on Willow Brook was acquired, and the church building was constructed. It was officially opened and blessed on 24 October 1984 by Bishop McGuinness, finally fulfilling the dream of a dedicated place of worship for the community
Parish Evolution
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Affiliations Over Time
Initially part of the Parish of West Bridgford, Keyworth later became part of Radcliffe-on-Trent before forming an independent parish with
Cotgrave. In 2005, the parishes were reorganized: Cotgrave was allocated to West Bridgford, and Keyworth was served from East Leake. Sister Mary Beuno O.P., who lived in the parish, played a major role in supporting the local Catholic community between 1984 and her death in 2023.
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The Role of the Loreto Sisters
A community of Loreto Sisters, active in Keyworth, significantly contributed to the Catholic life of the area. They staffed the Mary Ward Teacher Training College from 1969 to 1977.
A Vibrant Church Community
Today, St Margaret Clitherow Church continues to thrive as a welcoming and vibrant place of worship. It is a testament to the faith and perseverance of the Catholic community in Keyworth, serving as a spiritual home for all who seek God’s love and grace