he SPRED (SPecial Religious Education Division) group has been working in the parish for twenty years.  We meet on alternate Monday nights from 7.00pm until 9:00pm in Cara House.  Our group is a mixed age group.  We cater for people with Special Needs from our parish.  The ages range from ten years of age to mature adults.  We try to work on a one-to-one basis, a leader and a special friend. 

SPRED meets about thirty weeks of the year.  One week is a         preparation for helpers and the next week we meet with our friends.  The meeting lasts about two hours.  It starts with 30-40 minutes of activity (in silence as much as possible), to allow everyone to gain their inner quiet, we then proceed to the special area round the Bible having been invited by the Leader(s), and after that we have our agape (a sharing of a small supper) and songs. 

The aim of SPRED is to allow our friends with Special Needs to become a part of the parish family, to let them share their faith together in a way that suits them, and to learn from them the purpose God has for us all. 

We have prepared members of our group to receive First Confession, First Communion and Confirmation through SPRED.  All our helpers would say they receive more than they give. 

All that is needed is a desire to share your faith and love with each other and a commitment for two hours on a Monday night.  We welcome anyone who would like to know more about SPRED, and we invite any parishioners with Special Needs to come along and find out more about us. 

We would like to take this opportunity to thank Brooke Taxis whose drivers donate their time and vehicles to bring our special friends to and from Cara House whilst showing them the utmost courtesy and respect.  We would also like to thank Beckett’s and all the local shops who have been very supportive of SPRED’s fundraising activities, especially at Christmas. 

If at any time you feel you could commit yourself as a helper, please contact us.  Newcomers are always welcome and also if you know of any one with Special Needs that could benefit, please contact any member of the SPRED group.