Menu
Sunday Services: Holy Communion 8am | Parish Eucharist 10am | Evening Prayer 6.30pm
Christ Church, West Wimbledon
Sharing God's Love
Menu
Sunday Services: Holy Communion 8am | Parish Eucharist 10am | Evening Prayer 6.30pm
Each moment tells a story of faith, community, and hope. Please do take time to enjoy the photographs and give thanks for all that God is doing among us. At the heart of all we celebrated is the wonderful truth of Easter, that Christ is risen, and with Him comes new life, hope, and joy for us all. As Scripture reminds us: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” (1 Peter 1:3)
This is the hope we carry into our daily lives, the assurance that light overcomes darkness, and love triumphs over death.
This week has also reminded me of the breadth of ministry we share together. Alongside the joy of Easter, I had the honour of leading a large funeral in church, a sacred and moving occasion, holding a family in their grief while gently pointing to the hope we have in Christ. It is often in such moments that we are reminded that our faith speaks into every season of life, both joy and sorrow,and that we are called to walk alongside one another through it all.
After such a full and meaningful season holding both the joys of Easter and the pastoral demands of the week I will now be taking a short break. I am very grateful to the Revd David Evans, who will be leading our 8am and 10am services on Sunday please do give him a warm welcome. I am also grateful to Peter Boulding who will be leading our Evensong service.
Thank you again for all that you give to the life of Christ Church. It is a privilege to journey in faith together.
With love and every blessing,
Lotwina
Last week it was a pleasure to welcome 67 Year 4 boys from King’s College School to Christ Church for their Religious Studies learning. The church was full of energy as they took part in a scavenger hunt, discovering meaningful features of our building and exploring the life of the Church. They learned about our beautiful East Window from Linda Coleman. Do take a moment to look at it next time you are in church. You may notice the touching detail in the bottom left of a young boy without a halo, Eric Bishop, whose parents sponsored the window in his memory. John Davey shared insights about the building itself (including the use of Kentish Ragstone), and I had the opportunity to speak to the boys about Holy Week, Easter, and why people come to church. It was a joy to see such curiosity and engagement.
Our Lent course on prayer has concluded, and it was a real privilege to lead it. It has been encouraging to hear how people have been enriched. One participant shared, “I am praying more and differently as a result of what I learned on the course.”
If you were unable to attend, or would like to revisit the sessions, they can be found here.
Our Parochial Church Council (PCC) met last week for our bi-monthly meeting. The PCC plays a vital role in the leadership and life of the church. We were grateful to hear a wonderful presentation from Naomi Lowe, who works tirelessly on our communications. Naomi designs our beautiful leaflets and publicity, maintains our website, and sings in the choir, all alongside her day job. Her work quietly shapes so much of how we connect with one another and our community. A huge thank you to Naomi. Please do join me in thanking her and encourage her when you see her for all she does.
As we continue our journey through Holy Week, we are reminded of God’s deep love for us, shown most fully in Christ.
“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus… who for the joy set before him endured the cross.” (Hebrews 12:2)
May this be a time for each of us to draw closer to Him, to reflect, to pray, and to prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter.
With love and every blessing,
Lotwina
Last week, we were treated to a truly special occasion as our brilliant Director of Music, Roelof Temmingh, performed his first classical piano concert here at Christ Church. It was a joy to hear the beautiful sounds of Schubert and Medtner fill our sacred space. Roelof is accustomed to performing in renowned venues such as the Royal Festival Hall and Carnegie Hall, so it was particularly meaningful to welcome him to perform in our own beautiful and historic church.
This concert was made possible through the generous £5,000 legacy given by the late Shirley Turner, Judy Luddington’s mother. Thanks to this gift, we were able to commission a removable wooden piano plinth, allowing the piano to be brought to the centre and level with the altar, something that was not previously possible. We are deeply grateful to Shirley Turner’s family for this gift, which will bless our church for years to come.
The plinth was expertly crafted by Paul Millington, and we look forward to many more concerts in the future. We also hope to use the remaining legacy funds to install a handrail in the bell tower, making it easier to ring the bells as a call to worship each Sunday.
Thank you to Roelof, The Turner Family, Paul Millington, and to all who helped behind the scenes, including our wonderful warden Tish, the social committee for making the evening such a success.
One of the great joys of Christ Church is the quiet, faithful service that happens week by week. Often, when I come into church during the week to pray, I find members of the congregation hard at work, whether in the garden or caring for the church building. Last week I came across Bertha Jeffries and Sarah Shah, hoover and dusters in hand, diligently cleaning the church. They are part of our dedicated cleaning team rota, alongside Ginny Essex, Pat Spencer, Liz Errington, Caroline Petch, Jenny Tomlinson, and Jane Allen. We are so grateful for all they do. Please do take a moment to thank them when you see them. If you would like to join the cleaning rota, do speak to one of the team, you would be most welcome.
What a joy our Easter-themed Messy Church was! We welcomed over 20 children – thanks be to God! There were crafts, an Easter egg hunt in church, learning about Jesus, and a wonderful time of blessing and fellowship. My heartfelt thanks go to the fantastic team who made this possible – Tish Mousell, Jane Simpson, Arabella Allan, Claire Mangrioti, Claire Naylor, Lyons O’Keefe, and Radka Cernota.
When Hope Seems Delayed: The Glory of God in the Waiting
Scripture: John 11:1-45 (with Romans 8:6-11
By Rev Lotwina
I particularly enjoyed our all-age Mothering Sunday service last week. One highlight was our live quiz game called “Who’s Tish?” in which our wonderful churchwarden, Tish, dressed up as a series of famous women from the Bible and we all had to guess who she was. It was great fun and especially lovely to see the children so involved. The final woman we reflected on was Mary, which led us to that moving moment at the foot of the cross when Jesus said, “Woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” In this moment Jesus invites us into a wider family of care and responsibility for one another, encouraging us to look after each other not simply through biological ties, but as members of God’s family, the Church.
It was a delight to give flowers to all the women in the congregation. My sincere thanks go to Lynda Coleman, Marion Thomas, Elaine Chester, and Wendy Hamilton, who prepared the beautiful posies we were able to share.
If you haven’t seen someone in church for a while, why not reach out? A simple email, message or call can mean a great deal. We are called to care for one another. As Scripture reminds us: “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)
Last week it was also a joy to spend time with our youth group, the Kung Fu Hamsters (KFH). We had great fun with Hamster Chef, our cooking competition a bit like Master Chef with the girls team vs the boys team! The food they prepared was delicious, and Tish and I had the difficult task of judging and awarding certificates for taste, technical skill, teamwork, professionalism, presentation, and originality. Both teams did brilliantly and it was a draw.
The God of All Comfort: A Family of Compassion
Scripture: Second Epistle to the Corinthians 1:3–7 Gospel of John 19:25b–27
By Rev Lotwina
I am delighted to share that Bishop Martin will be visiting us at Christ Church on Palm Sunday. Not only will we have our dramatic reading of the Gospel, but Bishop Martin will also present Farhad with the highly esteemed Lancelot Andrewes Award in recognition of his faithful service.
Many of you will know that Farhad has served as a Reader for approx 27 years and still loves to preach into his 80s. It will be a wonderful moment for us to celebrate and give thanks for his ministry among us. If anyone feels called to explore becoming a Reader, training is available through our diocese, and I would be very happy to talk with you about the process.
We’ll once again hold a dramatic reading of the Gospel on Palm Sunday. There’ll be three practice sessions:
• After tea and coffee on Sunday 22 March
• A final rehearsal at 9am on Sunday 29 March, before the 10am service
If you would like to take part, please email me or sign up on the sheet at the back of the church. No lines need to be memorised this is a shared, dramatic reading.
Thank you for being such a faithful and welcoming community. As we move towards Holy Week together, may this be a time when our hearts are drawn more deeply into the story of Christ’s love for the world and the hope of the Resurrection.
The Well Where Everything Changed
Scripture: Gospel of John 4:5 to 42
By Rev Lotwina
Earlier this week I had the privilege of attending a clergy prayer retreat organised by our diocese. I spent two and a half days in a beautiful and tranquil setting in Wychroft Redhill taking time to be still before God and to pray for our church family. One of the most meaningful moments was praying in the chapel for each person whose name appears on our church electoral roll. It was a quiet but powerful reminder of what a gift this congregation is, and what a joy it is to bring each of you before the Lord in prayer.
I return feeling refreshed, encouraged, and deeply grateful for the calling to serve among you. As we approach Holy Week and Easter, I feel renewed energy and excitement about the journey ahead that we will share together.
As the Scriptures remind us:
“Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31
My prayer is that this season will be one in which all of us experience that renewal as we walk with Christ through Holy Week and celebrate the joy of the Resurrection.
The Well Where Everything Changed
Scripture: Gospel of John 4:5 to 42
By Rev Lotwina
Perhaps you’ve felt so overwhelmed that you didn’t know where to begin. Or maybe you cherish the idea of prayer, but Monday to Saturday seem to slip by with little time set aside for it. If so, there is wonderful hope. Our first chapter in our Lenten Bible Study on prayer began, and what a blessed start it has been. We turned to the Old Testament and reflected on the heartfelt, desperate, and deeply personal prayer of Hannah (1 Samuel 1). She poured out her heart before the Lord, raw, honest, and unfiltered. We were reminded that prayer does not need to be eloquent or polished, it simply needs to be real. As Scripture reassures us:
“The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” Psalm 145:18
What a comfort! Together we practised extempore prayer, stepping out in faith and trusting that God delights in hearing His children speak. There is such joy in growing together in this spiritual discipline, and I truly believe some exciting and life-giving weeks lie ahead for us.
And the good news? It is not too late to join. This coming Tuesday, we will explore Elijah’s powerful and faith-filled prayer and discover what it teaches us for our own Christian journey.
See below for more details. You are so warmly invited. Come and be refreshed.
It was a deep joy this week to share Holy Communion and Bible study with the residents of HolmHurst. What a privilege it is to gather around the Lord’s table, whether in church or in someone’s home. If you are ever unwell or unable to attend church for a period of time, please know that you remain very much part of our church family. I would be delighted to visit you at home, whether to share Holy Communion, prayer, or simply a cup of tea and fellowship. Please do email me at ccww.vicar@gmail.com or call 0203 597 9750 and leave a message, and we will arrange a suitable time.
Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.
By Chris Larkman
On 1 March we celebrated our first Choral Evensong with the Choir participating, and what a blessing it was. Hearing so many voices lifted heavenward in worship created a truly special atmosphere. A heartfelt thank you to Roelof, our wonderful choir, and everyone who took part in making the service so meaningful. I hope this will be the first of many such occasions as we continue to grow our life of worship together.
Preparations for Easter are now well underway. Last week Pat Spencer, Jenny Tomlinson, and I attended a Churches Together planning meeting with members of Sacred Heart, Raynes Park Community Church, St Matthew’s, and St Saviour’s. Together we began planning this year’s Good Friday Walk of Witness. This will be a powerful opportunity for us to carry the Cross of Christ into our community and to share the good news of hope and salvation. If you would like to take part, please speak with Pat or I. We would love to have you join us.
The Jigsaw Players concert last week at Christ Church was very well attended and warmly enjoyed by the community. Along with the world class music there was a display of the beautiful landscape paintings by local artist, Alison Clarke. Alison was so inspired by the music that she sketched through out the concert. How wonderful to have our church filled with music and culture.
If you missed it, don’t worry, there is more to come. Our Director of Music, Roelof Temmingh, will be giving a Piano Concert on Saturday 21 March at 7pm. Tickets will be available on the door are £15, students £5 and children FREE. Details above.
In our Lent course this week we explored ambitious prayer, inspired by the example of the prophet Elijah. It was a powerful reminder that God invites us to pray boldly and faithfully. In a world and a Church that deeply need God’s guidance and renewal, this encouragement could not be more timely.
Our next session will focus on hopeful prayer, inspired by the prophet Ezekiel. We will meet in the Truman Room on Tuesday 10 March from 7.45pm-9pm. The session will kindly be led by The Reverend David Evans, whose recent visit and sermon many of you appreciated so much. All are very welcome even if you’ve not been able to make previous sessions.
More details below.
I will be away next week for a two and half day prayer retreat, holding all members of our congregation, community and world in prayer, and seeking God’s guidance as we continue preparing for Easter. Please be assured that you will be very much in my prayers during this time as always.
Born Again, From Religious Effort to Living Faith
Scripture: Gospel of John 3:1–17 First Reading: Romans 4:1–5, 13–17
By Rev Lotwina
We shared a beautiful and moving service on Wednesday evening as we gathered for the imposition of ashes. As I traced the sign of the cross on each forehead, and as I received the ashes myself, the solemn words resonated deeply: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” These ancient words are a sober reminder of our mortality, but also a gentle invitation: to live each day in a way that is wholly pleasing to the living God, our Creator, and to cherish the moments that bring true joy along the way. It is a great joy and privilege to serve as your vicar, and you are all very much part of that joy.
On Thursday evening, I had the pleasure of attending the Spring Meeting and AGM of the South Ridgeway Residents’ Association, held in our church hall. The meeting was expertly chaired by our very own Bill Petch. Many of you will know Bill from our 8am service. Beyond that faithful presence, Bill quietly gives countless hours to the life of our church, often found up a ladder or on his knees voluntarily fixing, repairing, and maintaining our buildings and grounds. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Bill publicly for his dedication and generosity of spirit. We are deeply grateful.
Also in attendance were our local Member of Parliament, Paul Kohler, along with ward councillors Daniel Holden, Susie Hicks, Max Austin, and Victoria Wilson. It was encouraging to see our church hall being used as a place of community gathering and civic engagement.
Living From the Father’s Affirming Love
Bible Readings: Matthew 17:1–9 and 2 Peter 1:16–21
What a joy it was to see so many of you last week, spanning the generations, as we celebrated Candlemas, the 167th birthday of Christ Church West Wimbledon, and our deferred Patronal Festival. Our all-age service, followed by a splendid brunch, was a wonderful expression of who we are as a church family: rooted in faith, rich in welcome, and alive with joy.
Our children truly did us proud playing the piano, the trumpet, singing in the choir, leading the intercessions, reading the Gospel, and taking part in the sermon which reminded us that the Church is at its best when every generation has a voice. If you are wondering what was on the screen in the photograph that the children were studying so intently, they were searching for “Wally” hidden in a crowded scene. This led us to reflect on Simeon and Anna in the Temple, and how they were able to recognise the infant Jesus among the hundreds of babies who would have been brought there over the years.
The conclusion was clear and deeply reassuring: it was the Holy Spirit who led and guided them, revealing to them who Jesus truly was. As Simeon proclaimed, “My eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” (Luke 2:30–32)
We are reminded that we too, need the Holy Spirit to lead and guide us every day of our lives, helping us to recognise where Jesus is at work in us, our community, and in our world, and showing us how we might join in with what God is already doing.
My heartfelt thanks go to our children, to all who helped in so many ways, and to the Social Committee: Bertha and her daughter Natalie, Tim, Dee, Tracy, Elaine, Jane, and Tish whose hard work made the day so memorable.
Thank you all so much, too, for the gorgeous bunch of flowers I was given at our brunch celebration. I was truly overwhelmed with joy and deeply touched by your kindness and generosity.
It was a real joy to host the Service of Prayer for Christian Unity on Sunday 25 January. We were joined by brothers and sisters from Catholic, Quaker, Salvation Army, Methodist, and Anglican churches from Churches Together in Raynes Park. My sincere thanks go to Pat Spencer and Cathy Dickenson for helping to organise the service, and to everyone who attended, supported, or took part in any way. It was a wonderful expression of unity in Christ and a reminder of the blessing that flows when Christians worship together: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe. For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.”
I’m happy to report that our Crib Service, Midnight Mass, and Christmas Day services were all wonderfully well attended by the community. Thanks be to God for all who came, and a huge thank you to all who supported, helped and prayed.
At our Christmas Eve Crib service our very own special elf, Santa’s helper Tish, gave out gifts to the children who attended.
It was a joy to see our church so full of life throughout the Christmas period.
Valerie Price-Davies (Naomi Lowe’s mother) who painted our beautiful Bethlehem scene that adorned church during Advent, Christmastide and Epiphany.
The children’s Nativity was a delight beyond words. What a gift it was to see and hear from them as they led us in the story of Christ’s birth. The care, rehearsal, and thought poured into every detail shone through. My heartfelt thanks to all the children who took part, and to everyone who made the celebration possible, especially Tish Mousell, Lyons O’Keefe, Claire Naylor, Claire Mangrioti, Arabella Allen, Radka Buchtíkova, Roelof Temmingh.
One of the great joys of this season is singing our beloved Christmas carols, rich with the story of our Lord and Saviour’s birth.
On Saturday 13th, I was delighted to give the blessing at Carols on the Common by the Windmill at 4pm and on Sunday 14th, we gathered for our very own Christ Church Carol Service at 6.30pm.
The toddlers were also wonderfully busy at their final gathering of the year. Thank you to Stefan and Mary Ann and Cathy, who treated us to joyful music, and carols. I had the pleasure of reading the toddlers the Nativity story and joining in with the action songs. Warm thanks to our brilliant Toddler Group leader Mair, and to Miho, Marion Natalie, and all who worked so hard to make the session such a festive occasion. Photos are attached. The Toddler Group will return in January.
This week we were privileged to welcome our Diocesan Bishop, Christopher Chessun, to Christ Church. He received an excellent Eco Church presentation thanks to Ian and Lucy Christie and the Eco Team, and we were joined by Councillor Max Austin, Rob Noble from the Walk and Talk group, and Conservator Sue Bucknall. After the presentation, Bishop Christopher shared a vegetarian supper with members of the PCC and Social Committee, thanks to the efforts of Mair, Dee, Tish and Tim, before joining us for the first half of our PCC meeting.
A huge thank you to everyone who helped make his visit such a joy. As he later wrote on X, ‘A very blessed Parish Conversation at Christ Church West Wimbledon – proud to be the Church of the Common.’
What a wonderful Advent celebration we enjoyed on 30 Nov, a beautiful start to this important season in the Christian calendar. A huge thank you to our fantastic social committee and to everyone who contributed raffle prizes, tombola items, food and drink, and to all who helped with and supported the event.
A special thank you also to Brown Owl Elisabeth Bingham, Tawny Owl, and the Brownies, who made the Christingles for our joyful Christingle service which took place on 30 November. Spending time with the Brownies to prepare for this event was a real delight, and it was a joy to share with them the meaning behind the Christingle. The Christingle service itself was full of light, love and the warmth of the Holy Spirit plus lots of sweet treats too and together we raised money for the Children’s Society.
A verse for this season
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
John 1, 5
Preparations for the Nativity Service are going very well thanks to Lyons O’Keefe, Claire Naylor, Claire Mangrioti, Arabella Allen, Radka Buchtikova, Roelof Temmingh and Tish Mousell who have been rehearsing with the children behind the scenes. Our children and young people have been practising their acting and singing over the past few weeks, and now all they need is our warm support this Sunday 7 Dec as they share their hard work with us at our 10am service.
At the end of November, the Rev Lotwina had a wonderful morning litter-picking on Wimbledon Common with the Rangers, Conservators, and the Walk & Talk group, of which a number of our congregation have joined. It was a beautiful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together to care for the places we share. We’re often referred to as the “Church of the Common”, not just because so much of Wimbledon Common lies within our parish boundaries, but because our church seeks to love and serve everyone in our community: people of all faiths and none. I feel deeply grateful for the chance to support this precious space and those who work tirelessly to protect it.
This week it was also a joy to spend time with our young people (KFH group) thanks to our warden Tish who kindly hosted us at her lovely home, creating handmade tree decorations. These special decorations will be on sale at our Advent Celebration this Sunday, adding an extra touch of love and creativity to the occasion.
It was such a delight to spend time with some of our Kung Fu Hamsters (KFH) children last week! With the kind help of Sarah Hannaford, we hosted an evening at the Vicarage filled with laughter, pizza, and creativity. The children coloured in beautiful artwork on canvas and shared their thoughts on the Christian themes in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, which we had recently seen together at the theatre. Our pizza evening was made possible by a generous diocesan grant, supporting our follow-up to that magical theatre trip.
On 2 November at 6:30pm, we held our All Souls’ Service, a gentle and reflective time to remember our loved ones who now rest in the light and glory of Christ. Together, we prayed, gave thanks, and lit candles in their memory.
It is with deep sadness that I share the news of the passing of our dearly beloved congregation member, Clare Gummett. Clare was a cherished presence among us for many years. As a founding member of our bereavement service; Syrian Refugee Committee and a dedicated contributor to many community and social initiatives, she gave generously of her time, her kindness, and her wisdom. She is survived by her husband, Chris Larkman, as well as her children and grandchildren. We hold them all close in our hearts as we grieve this profound loss together. Clare’s warmth, compassion, and commitment to others will be remembered with deep gratitude, and she will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her. Details of her funeral will be shared in due course. In the meantime, please keep the Larkman family in your thoughts and prayers.
Many of you will know that Christ Church supports several charities throughout the year, quiet acts of generosity that reach far beyond our walls. One of these cherished partnerships is with the Christian Care Association (CCA), a charity that assists children and families in our local community who are facing financial hardship. Last week, at the CCA Annual General Meeting, Christ Church was warmly thanked by name, together with other churches, for our ongoing support. I am delighted to pass this gratitude on to you, because it is your kindness and giving hearts that make this possible. We heard how many families were supported this year, and heartfelt thanks were offered to those who serve so faithfully behind the scenes. In particular, our very own Pat Spencer, Secretary of Christian Care Association, was honoured for her dedication. To see Pat presented with a bouquet of flowers made me beam with pride on behalf of all of us.
Another highlight was seeing Patrick Robinson from our congregation take up his new position on the Christian Care Association Board of Trustees. He joins fellow Trustees from Christ Church; Pat Spencer, Dr Jane Allen, and Dr Ann Phillips, as well as many congregation members who are also members of CCA, all of whom serve with such heart, compassion, and dedication. They shine brightly within Christian Care. When you next see them, do ask them about the wonderful work the charity is doing, and let them know how much you appreciate their faithful service.
The Bridge Drive on 25 October was a huge success! We raised over £1,100 toward the much-needed repairs to our church’s stonework. What a joyful reminder of what can happen when hearts and hands join together. There was a great atmosphere in the hall as people played their hands, shared tea and cake, and enjoyed one another’s company. I was delighted to present prizes to both our winners and our cheerful “runners-up,” and to invite everyone to our upcoming programme of events.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made the afternoon so special – our amazing Social Committee, Liz Bingham our resident bridge expert, all who donated raffle prizes, made cakes and everyone who gave their time and enthusiasm. You are a blessing to our church family.
On All Hallows’ Eve, Tish, Karen and I braved the rain to share sweets and invitations with families who were out trick-or-treating. Thank you to all who prayed for us! We had such encouraging conversations and moments to share the love and light of Christ in our community. Special thanks to Karen and Patrick for their beautifully carved pumpkins – with smiling faces and Christian symbols – and to Bill and David for helping us set up and pack away our gazebo.
It was such a joy to welcome 300 children from The Study School into church for their Harvest Festival service. The building was alive with laughter, song, and the rustle of small feet as every pew was filled with bright, curious faces and the staff that accompanied them. I shared with the children how a simple seed holds within it the potential to grow and flourish, just as each of us does, and how kindness, generosity, and love are the “water” that help us all to thrive.
On 12 October we held our very first Messy Church. We welcomed 22 children, many accompanied by their parents and guardians. Together we made campfire biscuits, decorated paper pumpkins, created lanterns, danced on hearts and played the doughnut game!
Thanks be to God for a joy-filled afternoon of creativity, laughter, and community. Thank you to all the Messy Church leaders including; Tish Mousell, Claire Mangrioti, Claire Naylor, Arabella Allen, Lyons O’Keeffe and Jane Simpson. Please feel free to join us in future. We look forward to hosting another Messy Church next year.
10 October
As many of you will have heard last week, we have a new Archbishop in the Church of England, The Right Reverend and the Right Honourable Bishop of London Dame Sarah Mullally. She is the first woman ever to take up this role, marking an important and joyful moment in our church’s journey. Bishop Sarah brings with her a wealth of experience and compassion, having previously served as the youngest woman to become Chief Nursing Officer in the NHS. We give thanks for her faithful service and pray that her leadership will be guided by wisdom, grace, and a heart for all God’s people. Please remember Archbishop Designate Sarah in your prayers in the days and weeks ahead.
Let us rejoice in God’s goodness, give thanks for His provision, and continue to be a church family where Christ’s love shines brightly.
With love and every blessing,
Lotwina
The call that changes everything
Scriptures: 1Cor. 1(10 – 18): Matt. 4(12 -23). Farhad
Called by grace, pointed to Christ
Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 1:1–9 and John 1:29–42. Reverend Lotwina Farodoye
A King Like No Other
Colossians 1:11–20 & Luke 23:33–43 Reverend Lotwina Farodoye
Held in the Hands of the Living God
Scripture : Luke 20:27–38; 2 Thessalonians 2:1–5, 13–17 Reverend Lotwina Farodoye
The Counter Cultural Kingdom and the Inheritance of the Saints
Text: Luke 6:20–31 and Ephesians 1:11–23 Reverend Lotwina Farodoye
Baptism “The Water of Mercy”
Scripture: Luke 18 vs 9 to 14 and Ephesians 2 vs 19 to 22 Reverend Lotwina Farodoye
Faith That Doesn’t Give Up
Scriptures: Luke 18:1–8; 2 Timothy 3:14–4:5
Farhad
Rev’d Lotwina Farodoye
“Where Are the Nine? The Power of a Thankful Heart”
Scripture: Luke 17:11 to 19; 2 and Timothy 2:8 to 15 Theme: Gratitude as an expression of faith and endurance
Rev’d Lotwina Farodoye
Rev’d Stephen Crabtree
May we be those who love the unlovely. May we be those who are prepared to give a second chance. May we be those who come to Christ in penitence and faith.
Dear Friends
Over the past few years, Christ Church West Wimbledon has been blessed with the privilege of walking alongside a Syrian refugee family as they began their new life here in the UK. We welcomed them in June 2022 through the Government Resettlement Programme and for the last few years, our parish family led by Chris Larkman and a dedicated committee which included; Clare Gummet, Tish Mousell, Angelina Skelton, Mair Ragbliati, Julie Grainger, Lyons O’Keefe, Ann Patterson and Ursula Eberhardt, worked together to help to provide accommodation, guidance, and most importantly friendship.
Many of you have given so generously of your donations, time, talents, and prayers to this work. Truly, this is the work of God’s Kingdom, offering shelter, extending love, and reminding our neighbours that they are not alone. The prophet Isaiah says;
“The Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and release to the prisoners” (Isaiah 61:1)
Last week, Baaria, Mohammed, Taim, Malek, and Mahmoud expressed their gratitude to Christ Church by hosting a wonderful lunch in our church hall. Though only the refugee committee was able to attend on our behalf, their words and their cooking overflowed with thanks to the whole congregation. I understand the food was delicious, and the smiles even more so!
Dear Friends
Last week was truly special. Together with Tish, parents and helpers, we had the joy of taking our children and young people from the KFH (Kung Fu Hamsters) group to Sadler’s Wells to see The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. What an evening of fellowship and fun we had! There was laughter, wide-eyed wonder, and a real sense of being drawn into a story much bigger than ourselves. We are so grateful to our diocese for the grant that covered our costs. It was a gift that allowed us to share in something beautiful together.
For those who know C.S. Lewis’s wonderful tale, you will remember how the land of Narnia lay under the spell of the White Witch: “always winter, and never Christmas.” Yet into that frozen world comes Aslan, the great Lion, whose love and sacrifice bring hope, courage, and ultimately, new life.
It’s not hard to see the parallels with our own story of faith. Just as Aslan gave himself for Edmund, breaking the power of evil and death, so Christ gave himself for each of us on the cross. And just as the snow begins to melt at Aslan’s coming, so too our lives are renewed when Christ’s love is welcomed in. What a joy to be reminded that light always breaks through the darkness.
Next month we’ll be gathering the children together for pizza and a time to chat about the story, what it meant to them, and how it helps us think about God’s love. All children are welcome to come along (and there will be plenty of pizza to share!).
Please continue to hold our young people in your prayers, that their hearts may be warmed by the love of Christ.
Beware of scam emails!
Please be on your guard for any scam emails sent to you claiming to be from me, or any of our church members or friends or family. Sadly, some scam emails have been going around asking for help or favours, taking advantage of people’s kindness. The latest is Amazon vouchers but it could be anything. Please pick up the phone to the person to check if it is really them. Do not reply lest they get your details too.
Homily
Below is the homily I shared at our 8am Book of Common Prayer service recently entitled, Humility, Hospitality and the Heart of God.
I look forward to seeing you all this Sunday whether at our 8am, 10am or 6.30pm services.
When I was a child, my father often took my siblings and me to Wimbledon Common for picnics, and, of course, to look for wombles! We spent hours searching, but somehow my dad was always the only one who managed to catch a glimpse of them.
That is why it gives me such joy that a large swathe of Wimbledon Common lies within our parish. I like to think of Christ Church West Wimbledon as “The Church of the Common” not only because of our beautiful location, but also because we strive to welcome everyone, people of all faiths and none.
As the “Vicar of the Common,” I cherish opportunities to be out on the Common: meeting people, praying as I walk, and joining in community life. One of my favourite activities is the Walk & Talk group, which meets at 10:30 am every Saturday by the war memorial, a wonderful way to get to know both the place and its people.
On Saturday, I was honoured to be one of the guest speakers at the special VJ Day Walk & Talk commemoration. In my talk, I encouraged those present to be peacemakers in our time and led a prayer of commitment to peace followed by a blessing for all. It was a privilege to bear witness to “the way, the truth, and the life” found in our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Thanks be to God.
Sermons
Several people have asked for the opportunity to read and reflect on the sermons and talks shared in church after they have been preached. Please tap below for recent sermons.
A date for your diary; on Thursday 25 September, we’re especially blessed to have a guest speaker from the Wimbledon Guild. It promises to be an afternoon of encouragement, laughter, and friendship. As the Psalmist reminds us: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)
With love and every blessing,
Lotwina
In our Anglican liturgical calendar, we are currently in what is known as Ordinary Time, a season outside of the great festivals such as Advent, Christmas, Lent, or Easter. The liturgical colour for this season is green, symbolising renewal, growth, and the flourishing of God’s creation. You may have noticed this reflected in our altar coverings, church hangings, and the green stole I wear on Sundays.
Here at Christ Church, ordinary time is anything but ordinary! Our congregation continues to do extraordinary work behind the scenes, and this week I would like to highlight the dedication of our wonderful Eco Team.
Led by Dr. Lucy and Professor Ian Christie, the team also includes Brenda Thurgood, Professor Ron Barnett, Professor Nick Robins, Chris Larkman, Paul Sinclair, Liz Errington, Mary Ann Bown, and Marion Stewart. At our recent meeting, Lucy shared the encouraging results of our church Eco-audit: our carbon footprint has slightly reduced. This is a step in the right direction, but there is still more to be done. We are an Eco-Church and If you feel called to help, we would love to welcome you, after all, as Scripture reminds us, “the harvest is plentiful but the labourers are few.”
One of the great joys of our life together is sharing fellowship, and what a blessing it was to see so many of you at our recent Celebrate Together Tea! There’s something quite special about sitting down with friends (old and new) over a cup of tea, a slice of home-baked cake, and, of course, those famous cucumber sandwiches. If you haven’t yet joined us, why not make this the month you come along? We meet in the church hall at 3pm on the last Thursday of each month, and everyone is welcome, whether you bring a friend or simply come as you are. It’s free to attend, and the welcome is as warm as the tea.
I’m so grateful to Mary, Ann, Dee and all of the faithful helpers who work quietly behind the scenes to make this afternoon so delightful. There’s a sign-up sheet at the back of church for noting any special dietary requirements or if you’d appreciate a lift.
A date for your diary; on Thursday 25 September, we’re especially blessed to have a guest speaker from the Wimbledon Guild. It promises to be an afternoon of encouragement, laughter, and friendship. As the Psalmist reminds us: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)
If you missed the all-age sermon on 3 August, you can read it by clicking the button below.
A date for your diary; on Thursday 25 September, we’re especially blessed to have a guest speaker from the Wimbledon Guild. It promises to be an afternoon of encouragement, laughter, and friendship. As the Psalmist reminds us: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)
It was also a pleasure to welcome Sophie Roberts, our diocesan Environmental Officer, to church on 26 July. Her sermon was both thoughtful and inspiring. If you missed it, there’s a link below.
On another joyful note, I had the privilege of supporting our wonderful Churchwarden, Tish, at the Archdeacon’s Visitation Service at Southwark Cathedral last night. It was a moving occasion as she, along with fellow wardens from across the region, processed into the Cathedral and was formally sworn in to serve for another year. I felt a surge of pride and gratitude, we are richly blessed by Tish’s faithful service and the dedication of her deputies: Chika, Sarah, Tim, and Pat. The role of Churchwarden is an ancient and honourable one, with responsibilities rooted in law and tradition. With grace and humility, Tish affirmed her willingness to carry out this work, with the help of God. Let us hold Tish and her team in our prayers, asking for strength, wisdom, and joy in their service. And if you feel called to explore this ministry yourself, please do speak to Tish or I, we would love to hear from you.
We’re delighted to welcome Roelof Temmingh to our community as our Director of Music. Roelof is an accomplished and experienced musician, and we are thrilled to have him lead our musical life. Roelof’s love of organ music began in his childhood when he would sit next to his mother as she played the organ in their local church. Roelof will begin his role with us this Sunday and I know that you are all looking forward to meeting him. You can learn more about Roelof on his website.
Our recent Open Gardens event was a wonderful success! The gardens were in full bloom and looked absolutely beautiful. We began our tour at Christ Church, before moving on to the lovely gardens of Edith’s grandparents, Sally and Graham. From there, we visited Caroline and Bill’s garden, and finished at Dee and Mukhtar’s, where we were treated to a sumptuous tea. It was a joyful afternoon, made even better by the many members of the wider community who joined us. It was heartening to see such a strong turnout.
The sun shone brightly, and the garden quiz and “Guess the Number of Sweets in the Jar” were well received. A heartfelt thank you to all who kindly opened their gardens and to the Social Committee for preparing such a delicious spread.
Being Salt and Light – Supporting the Royal Marsden March
It is my heartfelt prayer that Christ Church will continue to be salt and light in our community. Last Sunday, we had the joy of putting that into action by supporting the Banham Royal Marsden March. With over 7,000 walkers passing by our church, we offered refreshments, encouragement, and a place to rest. Our grounds became a space of welcome and hospitality, a simple but powerful way to serve others in Christ’s name.
“For I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.”
Matthew 25:35
A heartfelt thank you to our amazing team of volunteers including Tish, Bill, Caroline, Sarah H, Jane S, Jenny, David F, Tim, Dee, Naomi, and Pat for making it possible. And a special mention to Lucy and Ian, who took part in the 15-mile walk from the Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea to Sutton, raising over £1,500 for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. What an inspiring effort!
What a blessing it was to gather for the 80th VE Day Service of Remembrance at the War Memorial in Wimbledon Village. It was an honour to lead such a significant event for our community. As I shared during the service, we do not glorify war but instead honour the gift of peace and those who gave their lives for it. We remembered the fallen, gave thanks for their sacrifice, prayed for peace in our world, and together renewed our commitment to be people of peace. The service was deeply moving and warmly received. Thank you to everyone who helped make it so special.
Our anual Quiz Night on 17 May was full of joy and surprises. Congratulations to Jan’s Jets, our worthy winners! We raised much needed funds towards our church £15K deficit. Special thanks to everyone who made the evening possible, especially Tish, Mark, Tim, Bertha, Jane A, Dee, Tracy and Jane S.
We had the delightful opportunity to take some of our young people for a fun-filled evening of ‘Dinosaur golf’! Eighteen hotly contested holes later, despite Tish and the Rev Lotwina having a few golfing tricks up their sleeves, the young ones did us proud! Laughter, friendly competition and generous scoops of ice cream made for a truly memorable outing. Thanks be to God for the joy of fellowship and the energy of our young people. We’d love to welcome even more young people into this community. We’re planning a special trip to see The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe at Sadler’s Wells Theatre on 29 August. These shared experiences build lasting friendships and deepen the roots of faith in joyful and engaging ways.
The Reverend Lotwina recently met with Councillor Max Austin and the VE Day planning team, which includes conservators, Uniformed Services, and business leaders such as Nicky Green, the landlady of the Rose and Crown. Great progress has been made on the 80th VE Day Commemoration Service, which The Reverend Lotwina will lead at the War Memorial on Thursday, 8th May, at 9pm. The Wandle Concert Band will be playing from 8pm, so please save the date!
The Reverend Lotwina recently had the pleasure of welcoming over 100 children to Christ Church from two local schools within our parish, to teach them about the meaning of Easter. It was a hive of activity, with eager minds engaged as they learnt about our Church, Holy Communion, Holy Week, and Easter. In addition to the regular gardening that they do, the Kings College Boys will be back in our church for three days in June to help us with our cleaning, a wonderful way for them to serve the community.
The Church was lit up in joy as the light of the Easter candle was passed to every member of the congregation. A brilliant sermon explaining the meaning of the symbols of the Easter – spices, the empty tomb, the folded cloth – filled us with the joy and hope and faith living life afresh in faith.
Easter morning was greeted with a chilly 6.30am service, but as we reflected on the mercy of the cross, we were warmed by the peace, joy and unity of the Easter message and the heat of the brazier. Followed by fizz and bacon rolls, what better way to start Easter day?
The Church looked resplendent as we welcomed Our Lord afresh in to our lives. Easter lilies and forget-me-nots were placed by the wall of remembrance, the stone was rolled away from the tomb in Junior Church’s Easter garden and the Easter candle joined the stunning displays from our fab flower team.
The Reverend Lotwina shares the Good News at The Walk of Witness Service in Raynes Park on Good Friday 18 April. A passing cyclist stopped to listen and ended up praying with us all. The Easter message is as buoyant as a petal of spring blossom floating in the breeze.
With joy, creativity and teamwork, Junior Church plant the seeds of hope in our Easter garden. This will now sit in Church ready for Easter morning when the stone of the tomb will be rolled back.
We were honoured to welcome the Wimbledon Common Walk & Talk group to church on Saturday 19 April as we prepared for the Easter celebrations. Hot cross buns and hot tea hit the spot for our hungry travellers, along with a fascinating talk about our Church and the true meaning of Easter.
Christ Church had the privilege of hosting the World Day of Prayer for our region on 7 March. It was a joy to welcome so many brothers and sisters in Christ from across so many denominations. Together, we worshipped, prayed, and were inspired by the beautiful service prepared by the women of the Cook Islands. A special mention must go to our Social Committee for preparing the most splendid food. It was truly a feast of fellowship!
On Sunday 2 February we celebrated our Patronal Birthday with a Bring & Share Lunch. With a spread worthy of a Michelin star and an interactive game of pass the parcel, what better way to celebrate Candlemass and Christ Church’s 166th birthday. Thanks go to the social committee for organising.
To thank church leaders for their invaluable work, The Reverend Lotwina was invited to breakfast at City Hall by the Deputy Mayor of London. Joining Lotwina was our brilliant part-time administrator, Sara Taylor. Sara has faithfully served Christ Church for 20 years, working diligently behind the scenes. A huge thank you to Sara for everything she does for us. L-R Sara, Deputy Mayor, The Reverend Lotwina and Bishop Alastair Cutting.
Just before Christmas, we enjoyed a delightful Celebrate Together Tea with a festive atmosphere. We pulled crackers, sang carols, shared cucumber sandwiches, and of course, savoured delicious homemade cake! If you enjoy good company, warm conversation, and cake, then do mark your calendar for the Celebrate Together Tea. Held every last Thursday of the month in our church hall.
With scootering sheep and Christ Church’s junior rock band, this year’s Nativity was a delightful reminder of how Jesus’ birth brings light to us all. We are so grateful to the joy our young people bring us.
What a magnificent throng of voices at our Carol service on 15 December. Accompanied by the South London Brass Ensemble, and Christ Church choir we sang all the standards, finishing with mulled wine and mince pies.
The Reverend Lotwina gave the blessing at the Carol Concert held at the Windmill on Wimbledon Common, hosted by the Wimbledon Common Conservators. We are the ‘Church of the Common’ since our parish boundary includes more of Wimbledon Common than any other. This also reflects Christ Church’s mission to be a welcoming church for everyone in the community, of all faiths and none.
The Rev’d Lotwina read the Nativity to the toddler group at their Christmas celebration. The morning was made even more memorable with Stefan accompanying the action songs. A big thank-you to our regular helpers Mair, Marion, Miho and Anna for their dedication and support.
The toddler group will resume on January 15th.
Our giant card is now displayed at the back of church. Huge thanks to Iris Coulber for this year’s beautiful design. You can write your Christmas message to everyone in the church and if you like, the money you’ve saved on Christmas cards can be donated to a charity.
On 12 December we had the pleasure of visiting The Beaumont residential care home to sing Christmas carols. It was a joyful occasion, made even more special by the enthusiastic young people from Raynes Park High School and members of Churches Together. Together, we spread festive cheer, bringing smiles to the residents’ faces.
At the recent “New Met for London” community event, hosted by the Baptist Church in Pollards Hill, The Rev Lotwina met our local police team – learning about the measures being taken to keep our community safe in Merton. A highlight was making contact with Inspector Oliver French Greenslade, lead officer responsible for our parish.
The Bridge Drive on 21 November was a huge success, raising over £1,000! And thanks to the wonderful generosity of Christ Church and friends, we are really delighted to announce that we’ve raised the £3,500 needed for the lightning conductor.
A huge thank you to everyone who made the quiz night on 5 October a resounding success. The evening was filled with fun and fellowship and we raised an incredible £1,048.50 towards the cost of the Church’s lightning conductor. This achievement would not have been possible without the hard work and generosity of so many.
It was possibly the most competitive quiz we have ever had. The top four teams were within 2 points of each other. Robin Coulber won the Children’s individual Mr Men round, and hot dogs, and choc ices were enjoyed by all.
In the season of Creationtide we will think about God’s earth, the biblical mandate for us to care for it and the reality of climate change, pollution and extinctions. To help focus our thoughts we have a display of photographs, paintings and objects that illustrate God’s creation – including this wonderful creation by our children. Thank you to all who have contributed.
On Good Friday the young people of Christ Church planted the Easter garden as a symbol of the new life that the resurrection of Jesus gives to us all – a place where life flourishes.
What a fabulous evening we had on Saturday 13 April! We are so blessed to have such talent in our midsts playing in our beautiful church.
M. Arnold: Sinfonietta No. 3, Op 81
Mozart: Flute Concerto No. 2 in D
Haydn: Symphony No. 80 in D minor
In aid of Christian Care Merton
In June 2022, we started supporting a Syrian refugee family, through the Home Office Scheme. We welcomed the family of four (now five), by finding them accommodation, furnishing their flat and by guiding them through all medical and schooling needs. Now we are helping them to learn English with the aim of preparing them for their future life in the UK.
On Sunday 3 March Junior Church learnt about the ten commandments – ingredients for living a good life. So to illustrate the idea they made cakes made of ten ingredients – including dates, dark chocolate, dried apricots and nuts. Here we see Angelica offering them out to the congregation after church.
Christ Church really knows how to throw a Barn Dance! There was a green theme (for St Patrick’s Day), including the food, with the prize for best outfit going to Edith. Brilliant live music had all ages, from 8-80+, spinning around the hall. Great fun and we raised much needed funds! We’re so grateful to our Social Committee for organising such a great event.
We celebrated our 165th birthday on 4 Feb 2024 with a fabulous Bring & Share Birthday Lunch. We had a birthday cake, party games and live music. To get everyone mixing, tables were arranged according to birth month. It was so wonderful to see our young people chatting easily to congregation members who were a little (and a lot) older!
…goes to special guest, Daniel, who accompanied our Happy Birthday sing song and then entertained us with two beautiful pieces on the piano. We are so lucky to have such talent in our community and thank Daniel for making our celebration a real day to remember.
Our youth group, the Kung Fu Hamsters, pitted their culinary skills against each other recently in a fiercely contested chef competition. All three teams – The Italianos, The Americans, and the Italian Sisters – created delicious meals and were judged for their technical skills, presentation and teamwork. They all had the honour of being awarded with certificates from our Vicar, Lotwina.
The 12 th Wimbledon Brownies meet on Wednesdays at the Scout Hut on the corner of Cottenham Park Road and Oakwood Road. We welcome all girls aged 7-10 from all schools and all denominations but those who live locally and those who attend Christ Church are particularly welcome. Contact is Elisabeth Bingham ccparishoffice@yahoo.co.uk
The 12th Wimbledon Guides meet on Tuesday evenings, at the Scout Hut on the corner of Cottenham Park Road and Oakwood Road. We welcome all girls aged 10-14 from all schools and all denominations regardless of whether or not they have been Brownies. Please contact us. Contact Nicolette Ewers ccparishoffice@yahoo.co.uk
Raynes Park Bereavement was set up by Christ Church as part of its outreach programme in 2014. There are 12 volunteers who meet with people who have been bereaved on a one-to- one basis. The service receives most of its referrals (about 60 per year) from local GP surgeries. If you (or anyone you know who lives in the area) would like to make use of our service, please call 07914 263420 or email raynesparkbereavement@gmail.com
Vicar
The Reverend Lotwina Farodoye
ccww.vicar@gmail.com
Church Wardens
Two people elected represent the congregation.
Tish Mousell ccww.churchwarden1@gmail.com
There is a vacancy for a second Warden
The Parochial Church Council (PCC) 2024-2025
Elected to serve until May 2025
Stefan Bown
Elected to serve until May 2025
Jane Simpson
John Davey (Hon Treasurer)
Ron Barnett
Sally Edmunds
Elected to serve until May 2026
Lynda Coleman
Sarah Hannaford
Chris Larkman
Elected to serve until May 2027
Chica Nwokoye*
Julie Grainger*
Julie Ashbee*
Ian Christie*
Debbie Morley (Hon Secretary)*
Merton Deanery Synod Members 2017-2026
(Ex officio on PCC)
Pat Spencer
Mair Rabagliati
*Eligible to stand for a further 3-year term
Our stall is open every Sunday run by members of the congregation.
Fair Trade is business with a commitment to justice for the world’s poor. Fair Trade is based on long-term partnerships with producers in the global south, guaranteeing suppliers a fair price for their products so that they can earn enough to support their families and communities.
Traidcraft run programmes in developing countries, supporting poor and vulnerable people to get a better deal from trade. They often focus on small, marginalised groups, creating long term partnerships and they also campaign to transform the way trade works.
For a wider range of products there is a Traidcraft catalogue and you can also order online at www.traidcraftshop.co.uk
We have special collections throughout the year and there are specific charities that we donate to.
Currently we are supporting:
1. South London Refugee Association https://www.slr-a.org.uk
2. Church Mission Society https://churchmissionsociety.org
3. Christian Aid https://www.christianaid.org.uk
4. A Rocha Kenya https://www.arocha.or.ke
5. Children’s Society, https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk
6. Faith in Action https://www.faithinaction.co.uk
7. Christian CARE Association https://www.christiancaremerton.org.uk
We also collect for emergency appeals for example we recently held a collection for Ukraine.
Christ Church Hall, 2a Cottenham Park Road, London, SW20 0RZ
Christ Church hall is a separate building next to the Church which was fully refurbished in 2019. The sprung wooden floor makes it an ideal venue for ballet and dance classes as well as yoga and pilates. With the modernised kitchen it is also brilliant for children’s parties. Hire rate is £35 per hour. For enquiries about hiring the hall please contact: ccsw20hall@gmail.com
• Seats 120 (100 at table)
• Hall dimensions: approx 50ft x 30 ft / 15m x 9m excluding stage area
• Disabled access toilets
• On-site parking for 6 cars
• Wi-Fi
• New heating and air-cooling system
• Fully equipped kitchen including automatic water boiler
We are here to help you if you would like to hold a funeral service in church for your loved one. It is not necessary for the deceased or their family to have been church goers. We can also conduct a full funeral service at a crematorium for those who live in the parish of Christ Church. It is usual for the funeral director to make direct contact with us but please contact the Parish Office
if you have any queries.
We are always pleased to discuss marriage with those who live in the parish of Christ Church or who can establish a Qualifying Connection with Christ Church. It may also be possible to be married at Christ Church where either or both parties have been divorced. Please contact the Parish Office at ccparishoffice@yahoo.co.uk to arrange a time to discuss marriage.
We are willing to consider preparing children to receive Holy Communion from about the age of 7-8 and subsequently we encourage young people to wait until they are at least 11-years-old before making the ‘adult’ step into church life at confirmation. Confirmation groups also run each year for adults who would like to make a commitment to church
life. Please contact the Parish Office ccparishoffice@yahoo.co.uk to discuss.
Baptisms are conducted on Sunday mornings either during the 10am service on the first Sunday of the month or at 12 noon on a convenient Sunday. We are always pleased to discuss baptism for those who live in the parish of Christ Church. Visit www.achurchnearyou.com to see if you live in the parish. Please contact the Parish Office at ccparishoffice@yahoo.co.uk for more details.
Bringing Holy Communion to those who are housebound is always a deeply meaningful part of ministry. If you or someone you know is unable to attend church for a period of time due to ill health, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, for prayers, a visit, or simply a listening ear.
