We are a small, friendly Catholic parish, growing in the love of God and in the love of each other. In our daily lives, we work to support and encourage each other as we learn to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. Everyone is welcome to our Parish no matter where they are on their journey through life.
Welcome to St John Payne Catholic Church
Who was St. John Payne?
John Payne was a native of the Diocese of Peterborough, but the date of his birth remains unknown. There has been some speculation about his early life, but his first association with Essex seems to have been as a steward to the Shelley family of Stondon Hall. He was ordained at Cambrai on April 7th 1576 and left for England shortly afterwards with St. Cuthbert Mayne.
He acted as chaplain and steward to Lady Petre at Ingatestone Hall and also ministered to Catholics in the district. He worked further afield too and is known to have taken lodgings in London. A successful pastor, he was brought to the attention of the authorities and was imprisoned during the winter of 1576-77.
Jesus said,
“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you.”
~ John 15:12-14
Priest
Father Jon Ravensdale (Ordinariate) – Parish Priest. See Biography.
Lay Pastoral Assistant and Steward of the Gospel
Ann Roughan (also Steward of the Gospel).
HISTORY OF THE PARISH
Parish Priests of St John Payne Catholic Parish at Greenstead, Ardleigh and Mistley:
- 1982 – 1995 – Father John McGrath
- 1995 – 2003 – Father Niall Harrington
- 2003 – 2011 – Father Conrad Smith
- 2011 – Present – Father Jon Ravensdale