We would love to see you at one of our Sunday services. We hold three services every Sunday: traditional holy communion at 8am, our main family service at 10am and our evening service at 6.30pm. This page explains what happens at each service, and answers some questions you may have about coming to church at St John's. Absolutely everyone is welcome at any of our services.
Sunday Services
8am - Communion
This is our most traditional service, using the prayer book. It is a quiet reflective service, with no music, a short sermon and Holy Communion. Around 15 to 20 people attend on most Sundays. The service lasts up to an hour.
10am - Family Service
A lively service for the whole church family - people of all ages attend, not just young families. The church will be busy and we're not worried if your children make some noise. There's a creche and activities for children. During school term-time, there are a full range of Sunday School classes. During holidays there'll be family services with a children's talk. Everyone comes to church together and the children leave for their classes after the service begins.
Words for songs and hymns are projected on a large screen, and there's sheets available if you can't see well.
The service lasts about an hour and twenty minutes. Tea & coffee is served after the service and there's plenty of time to chat and get to know people - we don't rush home!
6.30pm - Evening Service
An informal and relaxed service. The church is less full than in the morning service. As in the morning service, words are projected on a screen. There'll be a sermon, songs and hymns, Bible reading and prayers. The service typically lasts about an hour and a quarter. Again, tea & coffee are served after the service.
A few times a year, we have a "Real Issues" service in the evening. The format is slightly different with a talk on a topical issue instead of a sermon, and the opportunity to ask questions after the service.
Coming to Church - Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear?
Whatever you feel most comfortable wearing. There'll be a wide range from jeans & t-shirts to suits & ties.
What happens when I arrive?
You'll be greeted with a friendly smile and someone (we call them "Sidesmen") will hand you a notice sheet. If you need help finding a seat one of the Sidesman will show you to the best place. If you have any special requirement such as needing space for a wheelchair, again we're to happy help.
What if my baby or child makes a noise?
We are a family-oriented church and we always welcome children and realise they will make some noise! However, if you feel uncomfortable or if he or she is very noisy during the sermon you can use a room that has the service relayed through on a TV screen (a sidesman will show you). Alternatively, we always run a creche during our 10am service.
Can I take Communion?
If you are a committed Christian then you are welcome to take communion, whatever your denomination. If you're not, or you're not sure, you have a choice when your row is invited to receive communion – you can either stay in your seat, or come to the front, keep your hands by your side and one of the ministers will pray for you. Please do whatever is more comfortable for you.
Will there be a collection?
During the services, no collection is taken. We are grateful for contributions to the work of the church, but don’t want you to feel under pressure to give. There is a plate at the back of church for donations.
Are there toilets?
Yes, in the Church Extension, at the back of main church building. In the Church Centre there are also toilets. Someone will point you in the right direction if you ask. We also have baby-changing facilities in both buildings.
Help for disabled people?
We have a hearing aid loop and large print service sheets & Bibles are available on request. The church is accessible for people in wheelchairs (through the main glass front doors). In a Communion service, the bread and wine will be brought to those unable to come to the front. There are disabled toilets in both our buildings.
