Whenever I talk to Readers from other churches, they are always surprised at the variety of worship in Slaugham and Staplefield. There is a calendar of services in this magazine each month, but unless you are familiar with the jargon, you may not know just what to expect. So I thought I’d provide a short guide…
St Mark’s, Staplefield is a Victorian church with organ, pews and wonderful frescos. There is a service each Sunday at 9am, always including a 5-10 minute sermon, and lasting about 45 minutes to an hour.
Holy Communion 1662 is a traditional Book of Common Prayer service (thee and thou, Our Father, which art in heaven) without hymns;
Morning Prayer is in modern language with organ and hymns;
Common Worship Holy Communion is in modern language, with hymns and organ;
Choral Matins is a traditional service with organ, choir and hymns.
All Saints, Handcross is a Victorian mission hall church with chairs rather than pews. There is no organ, so hymns are accompanied on the piano. There are steep steps to negotiate, although wheelchair access can be arranged – please contact Carl (400221) in advance. Plans are in hand to improve access and facilities here.
Spotlight Service is a short, less formal service with hymns, prayer, and a short talk, followed by tea and biscuits. Very popular with the more mature!
St Mary’s, Slaugham
St Mary’s is a wonderful building with parts dating back to the 12th and 13th Centuries, with restorations in the 19th and 21st Centuries. It has a beautiful stone floor with underfloor heating, stained glass, comfortable chairs, organ, audio loop for the hard of hearing, with bell-ringing before and tea, coffee and squash after the services. Children are most welcome, and special provision is made for them in all 10:30 services, which last about an hour and a quarter, with a sermon of around 20 minutes.
All Age – a less formal service where families can stay together. Worship songs led by a small band (maybe keyboard, guitar, clarinet), often with actions for children and less inhibited adults!
10:30 Holy Communion is in modern language, and has hymns accompanied by the organ with worship songs from the band as well. Provision for children is made in small groups in the vestry, covert room and The Forge. About an hour and a quarter long.
Café Church – truly café-style, sitting in groups of 8 or so around each table, with tea, coffee and a selection of patisserie! Arrive early and settle in; grab a refill whenever you need. Children’s provision is made for part of the service, the remainder is intended to be child-friendly.
Morning Worship is a slightly more formal service, in modern language with hymns accompanied by the organ and worship songs from the band. Children have a separate programme in the same building.
If you are a church-goer, or would like to be, I hope you find some services that you will enjoy, and where you can meet the living God amongst friendly folk and beautiful surroundings.
Yours in Christ
Jon