Volunteering
Much of the work of Westminster Cathedral depends entirely on people who volunteer their time, energy, skills and talents at the service of the church. Many daily and weekly tasks such as serving tea and coffee, operating the telephone system, running guided tours, taking offertory collections or helping at the Information Desk are performed by volunteers.
Time is a precious commodity nowadays but if you can contribute some of your own valuable time, skills and talents please e-mail the Volunteer Coordinator: Mary Maxwell: marym@rcdow.org.uk or call 020 7798 9181.
If you would like to assist with the liturgical activities of the Cathedral and you are an adult please contact the Master of Ceremonies: Nicholas Tilbury on 0920 7834 4625 or by writing to 31 Sheraton House, Churchill Gardens, Pimlico, London SW1V 3BZ.
Parents of children and young people interested in becoming Altar Servers should contact the Administrator on 020 7798 9062.
Challoner Choir
A voluntary choir made up of men and women who sing at the Vigil Mass of Sunday at 6.00pm, usually on the first Saturday of the month. Rehearsals begin at 3.30pm in Clergy House Library, accessed from the Sacristy. Basic voice test for membership. For more information go to www.challonerchoir.com or if you would like to join the choir please contact Andrew Seidler on 07831 292386 or at andrew.seidler@challonerchoir.com
Information Desk
Volunteers on the Information Desk are often the first point of contact for visitors and tourists in need of information. Enquires may range from the times of Masses to the layout and history of the Cathedral. If you are good with people you will enjoy working on the desk. Full training is provided beforehand. Please contact 020 7798 9181.
Linen Laundry
Purificators, Corporals, and Lavabo towels are used at Mass and need regular laundering. If you would be willing to launder and press small items of linen please contact the Prefect of the Sacristy on 020 7798 9180.
Oblates of Westminster Cathedral
The Oblates of Westminster Cathedral support the work of the Cathedral through prayer. There are monthly meetings, but many Oblates pray for the Cathedral from home: this is a wonderful ministry for the housebound. If you would like to know more, please speak to Fr Michael Durand or contact Lolita Botanes on 020 7372 1471.
Offertory Collectors
Offertory Collectors help during Cathedral Masses by taking the collection. It is a simple but vital way of supporting the Cathedral. If you are interested in contributing your help regularly please contact Mary Maxwell on 020 7798 9181.
Oremus
This is the monthly full colour magazine of Westminster Cathedral that reflects the vibrant life and Catholic faith in the heart of London. To volunteer your help please contact the Oremus office, leave a message and we will return your call. Tel: 020 7798 9052
Readers at Mass
Readers provide an important ministry of proclaiming the Word of God at Mass. If you have a clear voice and a good diction please contact Mary Maxwell on 020 7798 9181.
SVP (Society of St Vincent de Paul)
The Society’s volunteers assist in numerous ways by home visiting and helping those in financial need; taking the disadvantaged on holiday and driving the parish minibus to bring the elderly to Mass. Further information available from Robert Crane. Tel: 020 7821 6916 or at robertcrane2000@hotmail.com
Teas/Coffees after Sunday Mass
Every Sunday after 10.30 Mass tea and coffee are served in the Cathedral hall. It is a valuable opportunity to meet other parishioners, get to know new people and help to welcome our many visitors. If you would like to be part of the monthly tea-making rota your involvement would be welcome. Contact Mary Maxwell on 020 7798 9181 or at marym@rcdow.org.uk
Tour Guides
If you are interested in getting to know the Cathedral better you can be trained to give guided tours for groups and individuals around the Cathedral. This is a wonderful opportunity to pass on your enthusiasm and love of the Cathedral to others. Please contact Cathedral Facilities Manager, Sarah Dorgan on 020 7798 9064.
Website
The Cathedral’s website is a vital part of the Cathedral communication system. If IT is one of your interests and you have the technical expertise please contact the Sub-Administrator on 020 7798 9180.
Weekend Switchboard
Volunteers help to run the Clergy House Reception Desk at 42 Francis Street on Saturdays and Sundays (and occasional public holidays) from 10am to 1pm. This involves answering the telephone and dealing with enquiries and visitors to Clergy House. If you would like to help please contact the Sub-Administrator’s Intern on 020 7798 9179 or subadintern@rcdow.org.uk