The Catholic Churches of Esher &
Thames Ditton

The Catholic Churches of Esher and Thames Ditton warmly welcome anyone who is interested in exploring or joining the Catholic faith. Whether you are seeking Baptism, wish to become a Catholic from another Christian tradition, or are simply interested in learning more about the faith, we would be delighted to accompany you on your journey. Our parish community is committed to supporting those discerning or preparing to become Catholic and invites you to participate in the spiritual life of the parish.

You are welcome to join us for Sunday and weekday Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, the Rosary, prayer groups, and other parish activities as you get to know our community. For further information about our parish, Mass times, and regular activities, please visit our website, sign up for our weekly newsletter, or contact the parish office.

Adults seeking to become Catholic will be invited to join the Sycamore course (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). This is the Church's established process of faith formation for adults who wish to become members of the Catholic Church. More than simply a course, Sycamore gets its name from the biblical story of Zacchaeus, who climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus, symbolising a fresh perspective and a life-changing encounter.  It is a journey of faith that includes spiritual, catechetical, and liturgical formation. It responds to Christ's invitation by accompanying both those who are unbaptised (catechumens) and those who have already been christened in another Christian tradition (candidates) as they explore the Catholic faith and deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ. An outline of the course is below.

If you are thinking of becoming a Catholic or would like to find out more about our faith, then please do get in touch  etd@abdiocese.org.uk  Our new programme begins in January 2026......

Additionally, we are pleased to support families from all local schools who have been inspired by their school RE lessons and exposure to our churches and are exploring the Catholic faith. We welcome referrals from Headteachers and other RE staff for pupils and families who have expressed a desire to be baptised or to become Catholic, and we will support them through the appropriate preparation and discernment process..........

Families wishing to have an older child baptised should contact the parish office to register their interest in the Baptism for Older Children programme. This programme is intended for children who have reached the Age of Reason—the stage at which a child is considered capable of personal moral responsibility and is able to recognise and express a desire to begin their journey of faith.

The following guidance outlines the sacramental preparation programmes offered at Holy Name and Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Churches, in accordance with the norms of the Diocese and Canon Law. Please note that our churches form part of the Moderated Parish of Weybridge, and sacramental preparation is organised across the parish to ensure a consistent and supportive experience for all candidates.