On 11 October 1997 Bishop Leo, Bishop of Northampton, consecrated the reordered church of St.Columbas Church and its Principal Altar. The Catholic Church has the twelve apostles for its foundations, and Jesus himself as its cornerstone. Hence the Bishop, assisted by Fr.Chris, anointed the walls in twelve different places with the Oil of Chrism. Each place anointed in this way is marked with a cross and a candle holder. The relics of St. Edmund of Abingdon, Berkshire 1180 1240 Archbishop of Canterbury 12331240 are deposited in the Altar along with a stone from the Island of Iona. Prior to this, our Parish had a varied history, from its early days in private houses, the generosity of the British Legion and the day in 1956 when land was acquired for the construction of the building we now use. 1697 Fr.Christopher served Buckinghamshire. 1870 Canon Dwane celebrated Mass, baptisms etc in private homes. 1909Mass was offered in the new chapel of St.Helens, Khartoum Avenue now Eskdale on 9th May by Fr.Joseph Dominic, Vicar Provincial of the English Carmelite Province. 1911Bishop administers Confirmation at the new mission. 1912 Another house acquired in Khartoum Avenue to allow for study. Site bought in Great Missenden.1914 Permission refused by the Council for a larger site in Chesham. The friars leave for Gerrards Cross. Chesham Bois site bought. 1947 Mass celebrated in the British Legion Hut. 1956 Site bought for new church in Chesham. 1959 On 30th August, Foundation Stone laid. 1960 New Church opened. 1985 Bishop Thomas celebrates the Parishs Silver Jubilee. 1997 2000 2000 Church and principal Altar consecrated. Mass of the new Millennium offered. Two new stained glass windows blessed 9th June, Feast of St Columba, Bishop Leo celebrated the 40th anniversary of the church. Provost Norman Smith preached.

Address: Father Patrick Bailey 432 Berkhampstead Road Chesham Buckinghamshire HP5 3HQ
Telephone: 01494 785269
Website: http://www.rc.net/northampton/stcolumba/id17.htm