Catholicism has been an important presence in Wolverhampton for several centuries. Catholics were persecuted for hundreds of years but there was generally tolerance in the Midlands. The Jifford family built and bought the house that is now the priest’s residence in 1728. The priest said masses and prayers there although services were not yet celebrated in public due to the existence of the penal laws. These were lifted allowing Catholics to practise their faith openly, and the church was built onto the existing house in 1825.

In the nineteenth century there was an huge influx of Irish migrants due to the Potato Famine in Ireland. Many stayed in Wolverhampton because of the jobs available in manufacturing industries. The immigration into Britain of Italians and Polish people after World War Two meant that Wolverhampton retained a slightly higher than average Catholic population, which continues to this day.

Mass is said every day, with Saturdays and Sundays being the busiest. Throughout the week Father Daly concentrates on administration and pastoral work. He visits the sick of the parish two afternoons a week. Events such as funerals, weddings and Christenings and the organisation that goes with them are also important.

The principle use of the church is for worship, and this dictates the shape, décor and facilities of the building. It is the spiritual home of the parishioners and some have long links with the church through marriages, christenings, funerals and first communions. As such they feel a love for the church - it feels more than just a building to them.

St. Peter and St. Paul, North Street   Alter for the blessing of bread and wine   Statue of the Virgin Mary