A SMALL chapel specifically created for private worship is to be inaugurated at Sacred Heart Church in Bournemouth.

Bishop Philip Egan of Portsmouth has invited the co-founder of the Oxford Oratory Fr Dominic Jacob CO, as well as Fr Pete Edwards and Fr David Hutton to begin an Oratorian Community of St Philip Neri on September 8.

It forms part of a major evangelisation drive by the church.

Following the announcement, Bishop Philip Egan of Portsmouth said: “The Diocese has areas of real deprivation and poverty. There are immigrants and foreign nationals from Eastern Europe and

overseas, as well as university and college students away from home. This is a pastoral situation that

is urgent. It impels action.

“We need to engage with those who have not yet met the Lord Jesus in person nor taken to heart the

salvation and eternal life he offers. More than ever we need today to be confident and clear in

witnessing to the person of Jesus Christ and the truths of the Catholic faith, in order to help people

find the way to authentic humanism and happiness. This is why I am delighted by the new project

beginning at Sacred Heart parish.”

Fr Peter, Fr Dominic and Fr David will begin their ministry on the feast of Our Lady’s birthday, at the church - situated in the heart of Bournemouth - surrounded by university accommodation,

language school students, diverse ethnic communities, and homelessness, beside long-standing residents, the hospitality industry, business and commerce.

In accordance with the charism of their Patron, St Philip Neri, the Oratory in formation will be

devoted to offering sacramental support through daily mass and confessions, Eucharistic adoration

and formation in the spiritual life. Additionally, there will be pastoral care provided to students, the growing number of homeless, and others in need, all whom make up the local population, and the thousands who pass the doors of Sacred Heart each day.