Welcome

To The Church of Our Lady of The Assumption and The English Martyrs

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The Aspire Building Fund

Welcome Message from The Rector

Welcome to the new website of The Church of Our Lady of The Assumption and The English Martyrs.

One of the largest Roman Catholic churches in the country, at 65 metres high, the OLEM church spire is only slightly lower than the tower of Ely Cathedral. The church’s significant size, landmark features and stunning architectural detail were intended to suit its anticipated role as the centre of Catholic life at Cambridge University.

OLEM has been relisted at Grade I for the building’s superb quality, craftsmanship and architectural vision, and the building is renowned as one of the most beautiful Roman Catholic churches in England. Consecrated on 8th October 1890, it continues to offer a place of rest, beauty and grandeur to all who pass through its doors.

It forms the heart of a busy, diverse parish set in the midst of a city known throughout the world as a centre of historic learning, contemporary research and rich artistic creativity. Our Parish also includes communities in Ditton and Bar Hill.

Church Buildings, like people and their homes, need constant attention to ensure that the fabric is in good condition and that health and safety issues are addressed. We want to keep this beautiful church as a living and dynamic vehicle of praise to our God in the centre of a wonderful City. And so we are currently undertaking a major fundraising appeal - the Aspire Building Fund. Please visit the appeal pages to see how you might be able to help us.

We are truly blessed to have this sacred sanctuary and to give thanks for all the blessings that have flowed from it since 1890.

May you find your visit here warm and welcoming, spiritual and nourishing, memorable and significant.

The Rt Revd Mgr Canon E Harkness, OSB Obl