Church Life
St Mary's is a family church and our worship, activities and groups reflect the diverse nature of our congregation. There is always a lot going on and we are sure that there will be something for you.
For further details contact the Parish Office: 01243 - 826 886 or stmaryscentre@googlemail.com
Sunday School & Junior Church:
This starts in Church during the 11.00 am Eucharist, and moves to St Mary’s Centre / into the North Vestry during the main act of worship. Under Fives are very welcome, but they must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Our Sunday school provides an opportunity for children to learn about the Christian faith through songs, drama, craft and play in three age-groups: under fives, six to ten year olds and eleven plus (Junior Church).
Youth Group (JAM):
Jesus And Me (JAM) is our Youth Group for everyone over 11. We meet every Sunday from 5:30 to 7.30pm. We try to organise ourselves and plan our own programme. We usually share a meal and enjoy socialising and chilling out. We even have a homework table! £1.00 a head will give you a full evening meal provided by our adult mentors.
Bible Study & Prayer Groups:
These study, prayer & fellowship groups meet during term time at varying venues.
Tuesdays: Bible Study 2.30 pm
For more information please contact Kirsten Scott on 01243 - 826 877.
Wednesdays: Bible Study 7.30 pm
For more information please contact Bryan & Joy Wilson on 01243 - 870 550.
Thursdays: Bible Study & Prayer 10.30 am
For more information please contact Toni Whitehead on 01243 - 866 549.
Nurture Groups:
There are regular Confirmation classes & discussion sessions, along with First Communion instruction for young people. Those who have been confirmed, but feel they would like a "brush up" are welcome to attend these meetings.
Contact the Parish Office on 01243 - 826 886 or the Rector.
The Men's Group:
This group meets monthly on a Friday evening for fellowship, recreation and the occasional discussion. For some of our social events we are joined by the Ladies.
Contact John Godfrey on 01243 - 830 308
The Ladies' Group:
This group meets on the first Friday of the month for socialising, talks and outings. For some of our social events we are joined by the menfolk.
Contact Stephanie Bennett on 01243 - 849 358
The Choir:
Music plays a big part in the life of St. Mary's Church and we are very fortunate to have a strong musical tradition. The Choir is affiliated to the Royal School of Church Music. Indeed, we have two robed choirs! One sings for the 9.30 am Sung Eucharist (mainly NEH and traditional anthems), and our other choir which includes Junior Trebles sings for the 11.00 am Sung Family Eucharist (mainly Celebration Hymnal and modern worship songs). The two choirs join forces for our monthly Choral Evensong & Benediction, special services, weddings and regular concerts.
We are a friendly choir who always welcome new members - particularly Juniors and men. There are no auditions, you just need to love singing. Our practice night is Thursday 7.00 pm - 9.00 pm (no practice during August). The Juniors meet at 6.30 pm in the North Vestry during term time and then join the adults at 7.00 pm until 7.30 pm. The Juniors can follow the "Voice for Life" scheme which eventually leads to the Dean's & Bishop's Awards.
Contact Organist and Musical Director James Rushman on 01243 - 582 330.
The Bellringers:
St. Mary's has a ring of 8 bells, with the oldest dating back to the early 1400s and the two latest dating from the year 2000. Our Band of Ringers practises Wednesdays 8.00 pm - 9.00 pm, and usually winds up in one of the local hostelries afterwards. The Bells are rung before the 9.30 Sunday Eucharist, and during the summer months are also regularly heard for weddings. Contrary to popular opinion you need to be neither strong nor musical to become a ringer. If you are at least twelve years old and would like to try your hand at the ancient art of change ringing please get in touch with the Tower Captain.
Contact Andrew Last on 01243 - 586 680.
Social Events:
A wide variety of social events take place at St. Mary's, and these are both hugely enjoyable and an ideal way to get to know other people in the church and the parish. For example we have have a regular Burns Night Supper, Quiz evenings, Passover meal, Dances. See the Gallery to get a flavour of our events.
Saturday Morning COFFEE STOP & Fairtrade Stall:
Coffee Stop takes place every Saturday morning from 10 am, either in St. Mary's Centre, or in the North Vestry in the church, even the Rectory Garden occasionally. The venue is advertised on the day. Once a month Coffee Stop coincides with a tabletop sale & Fairtrade stall. The Fairtrade stall is also open every 1st Sunday both after the 9.30 am Eucharist and the 11.00 am Family Eucharist.
For more information contact Pat on 01243 - 855 675.
Events coming up
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