For 20 years, the Friendship & Bereavement (FAB) Group at St Paul’s Catholic Church in Poynton has been offering friendship, comfort and support to those who need it most. What began as a parish initiative has become a lifeline for many, providing a welcoming space where people can share experiences, find companionship and know they are not alone.
Parish Community: A Place of Friendship, Care and Belonging
20 Years of Building bridges, sharing friendship and ensuring no one feels alone.
Parish life reaches far beyond the celebration of Mass. Across our Diocese, community groups offer vital opportunities for friendship, support and companionship, bringing Christ’s love to life in practical ways.
We are delighted to celebrate the Friendship & Bereavement Group at St Paul’s Catholic Church, Poynton, which has received a Community Award from Poynton Town Council in recognition of its contribution to the local community. The award also celebrates the dedication of Alma Haughian, who has coordinated the group for an incredible 20 years. The photo above shows the recipients of the 2026 Poynton Awards, which were presented by the Town Mayor, Cllr Hayley Whitaker, at the ceremony on Thursday 1st October 2026. The Poynton Awards are a celebration of those who freely give their time for the benefit of the community.
Meeting monthly, the group has become a lifeline and a much-anticipated highlight for many parishioners, offering a welcoming space for those experiencing bereavement or loneliness to find friendship and support.
This is a wonderful example of how parish initiatives can make a lasting difference, build bridges within the wider community and reflect the compassionate love of Christ.
Every parish is enriched by the gifts, talents and generosity of its people. Getting involved in parish life is a wonderful way to put faith into action, build community and help others encounter Christ. Perhaps there is a need you have noticed in your parish, or a passion you would love to share. If you would like to help parents grow in their role as the first teachers of faith, why not start a Baby and Toddler Group? If you want to explore Scripture more deeply, consider forming a Bible study group. Have a flair for social media or marketing? Speak to your priest about helping your parish connect with more people online. From welcoming people at Mass and baking for after-Mass coffee to sharing professional skills, supporting parish activities or simply offering a little of your time, every contribution matters. You do not need to have all the answers or wait to be asked — if you see a need, prayerfully consider how God might be calling you to respond. Together, through our different gifts and abilities, we can build vibrant, welcoming parish communities where faith is nurtured, friendships flourish and Christ’s love reaches everyone.
