​Watermead began in 1992 when the parish priest explored the possibilities for a hymn, "Our Song Gives Praise", composed by two of the parishioners in the parish he was serving.  A publishing friend had told him that the hymn was good enough for publication, and this acknowledgement encouraged the writing of further music for hymns and mass settings. Through 1992/3 other initiatives were explored, including a collection of parishioners' favourite prayers, and the group of people that had gathered to discuss possibilities for a music-publishing venture were now looking to form a general publishing apostolate.

When we chose the name “Watermead” (after the lakes and parkland area neighbouring the church) we were asked why not simply take the name of the parish.  At that time many saintly and personal names had been mused over, but it was felt that what we were beginning was for all who wanted to be involved in sharing God’s love – and a title should not imply parochial or denominational ownership. Over the years this name has also proved beneficial as the umbrella under which we offer our Christian message.