Published: 18/10/2010 12:00 - Updated: 18/10/2010 11:52

THE new £1.3m joint parishes centre for St. Michael's and St. Joseph's churches in Bishop's Stortford opened its doors to the Observer for an exclusive preview.

After 37 weeks of development, the facility will officially open with a special ceremony on Saturday (October 23) attended by The Rt Rev Dr Alan Smith, Anglican Bishop of St Albans and George Stack, Auxiliary Bishop for the Roman Catholic diocese of Westminster.

The two-storey centre feature two individual halls for the churches, each with a kitchen and offices, as well as meeting rooms and playrooms for children.
 
Next week's ceremony kicks off with the cutting of a ribbon at 12 noon and the unveiling of a stained glass panel situated between both halls. The bishops will bless the rooms before champagne and refreshments are served.