New to St Mary's
New to the village, or new to church, this page gives a few details about what to expect at our 9.30am Sunday Gathering. More information can be found on other pages.
Accessibility
There is level access via the North Porch (at the 'top' end of the car park by the walnut and apple trees).
Large Print Service sheets are available. Please ask someone on the Welcome Team when you arrive.
There is a hearing loop in good working order.
There is an accessible toilet, with an alarm should assistance be required and baby changing facilities.
Wheelchair uses are very welcome to sit in the central aisle. There is also a space down one side and space at the back.
Large Print Service sheets are available. Please ask someone on the Welcome Team when you arrive.
There is a hearing loop in good working order.
There is an accessible toilet, with an alarm should assistance be required and baby changing facilities.
Wheelchair uses are very welcome to sit in the central aisle. There is also a space down one side and space at the back.
What happens on a Sunday Morning
People begin to arrive by about 9.15am. They will be welcomed by someone at the door who will give them a hymn book and whatever sheets are needed for the service. The congregation is made up of people from many walks and stages of life. They come dressed in jeans and t-shirt or shirt and tie - there is no dress code.
People tend to mill about a little and talk to others, or sit in a pew quietly to pray. You are welcome to sit anywhere you like. If you would like someone from the congregation would be very happy to sit next to you and help guide you through the service.
At 9.30am the vicar walks to the front and starts the service. It will follow a service sheet that you will have been given, and includes some prayers that the whole congregation says together, as well as some readings, a short talk, and some songs that everyone is welcome to join in with. Some people know all the songs and sing loudly, others don't know them and so just read the words. Most of them are pretty easy to pick up.
Some services include Holy Communion. Everyone is invited to come up to the front to either receive a blessing or the bread and wine. If you have been baptised - which is like the entry ceremony into the church family - then you are welcome to receive bread and wine. If you would prefer to receive a blessing just keep your hands down by your side at the communion rail. If you would like the vicar to bring the bread and wine to you, please let one of the welcome team know. Gluten free wafers are available; again please let the welcome team know.
After the service everyone is invited to stay for tea and coffee to get to know each other.