Who we are - and the sort of Church we are

We are firstly a Church of England (Anglican) Parish Church. 
Like many country churches most of our congregation comes from within the parish, but we are always very pleased to welcome visitors from further afield who wish to worship with us, and particularly to welcome families and young children.
We worship God in a reverential, musical and inclusive way. Our services are mainly Holy Communion, following the Common Worship liturgy at 11 am and the 1662 Book of Common Prayer at 9 am. We have a truly joyful modern Family Communion Service at 11 am on the first Sunday of the month with young Music Makers gathering in Church half an hour before to learn to accompany the songs on percussion instruments. On the third and fifth Sundays in the month, the 11 am service is usually Matins.

Secondly, we are a Church which is trying to stay relevant in today’s changing landscape. To this end, we are in the process of re-ordering our early 13th Century listed church building, so that we can engage more effectively with our village and the local community.
Modernising the building involves renewal of the water supply, drainage system and power supply, followed by the installation of a kitchen area, some toilets, a new glazed porch and heating. Furthermore, we plan to design and furnish a new meeting room in the south west corner of our building, for use by small or medium sized groups. Once these works are done, St Mary's will benefit from a more welcoming entrance to the building and better facilities to offer hospitality to all-comers, whether they be people of faith or not.

Are we making progress? Yes.  Our efforts are underpinned by prayer, and God is most gracious.  Since we started this project, the pews have been removed from the west end of the nave, a new oak floor has been laid in the space where they were sited, and 70 stackable oak chairs have been purchased for us by The Villager magazine. This has enabled the area to be used as seating for services and concerts, and as a café area when we wish to offer hospitality to visitors.

And now the next phase of the project beckons;
​               Will you come and join us? "