African Choir singing 'Gloria' at the Bishop's Mass

Saint Patrick's African Singers is more than a choir to its members, who are all asylum seekers and refugees living in Oldham.

The group was formed to take part in the 2001 Christmas Liturgy at St Patricks, but its members stayed together and it has become a support system and source of enjoyment and worship. They sing once a month during mass, perform at other churches , and took part in last year's Festival of Light.

Father Phil Sumner said: ''It has boosted their own self-esteem and given them an interest as well as a support network within the town. It has also given a vibrancy to this community. To have so many young people involved in the church has been a boost for others. Many of our community had not encountered asylum seekers before but have gone on to discover a liking for these young people. Previous views have been changed.''

Filipino Choir singing Communion Hymn

Folk Group performing 'Our Father'

Originally formed as "a one off' to celebrate the Bishop's visitation in 1998 and then later being invited to sing at the Mayor's Mass, St. Patrick's Folk Group continues to go from strength to strength.
The three vocalists, vocal/guitarist and bass guitarist all share a musical background, either being classically trained, semi-pro or ex professional. An uplifting and unique combined sound of Caribbean, Eastern European and rich English tones capture the cultural background of the five members... with a bit of Oldhamer and Mancunian thrown in for good measure!

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