About us, practical things and accessibility
Who's who
A brief look at:
-
what Christians believe
-
the Church of England
-
some tricky questions
Good to know...
-
Clothes and dogs... no need to dress up when you visit, and jeans are absolutly fine. Guide/assistance dogs are always welcome (we've got a drinking bowl), and if you need to bring your pet for any other reason, just lets us know and we'll sort something out.
-
Toilets, prams and for those less mobile... we've got toilets and plenty of room for prams, buggies and wheelchairs. We've got hearing loops, microphones and large print books. And toys, books and crayons for the children (adults can use them too...)
-
But I don't live in Westerfield, Tuddenham or Witnesham... doesn't matter. Lots of people ‘try out’ several different churches to find one they really like. Popping in doesn’t commit you to anything. We’ll be friendly - but that’s all. There’s no ‘hard sell.’ And if you want to talk about anything, we’re happy to listen
-
I don't know anything about God...That’s fine. People try church for many different reasons. Those at the front in a long frock appear to have their beliefs all sewn up; but chances are, many of the rest of us aren’t quite so certain!
People said...
'Life's so hum-drum. A bit like a conveyor belt . That hour on a Sunday gives me a bit of space to think and reflect’
‘I didn’t realise anyone could go into a church. I thought you had to be an Anglican or even a Christian’
'There’s a lovely sense of stillness and calm. And it’s easy to imagine all the people who’ve worshipped here over hundreds and hundreds of years’
‘I’ve met some really nice people and we look out for each other - it’s such a relief having other people to talk to. I guess I was a bit lonely before’
This is Andy Hill's story
In 2016 I started going to church. My friends and family were totally gobsmacked. I’d always been such a militant atheist. But one Sunday morning, while pushing the buggy around London, I ducked into St Philips, a fancy gothic-revival confection.
The inside was dripping with art and flickering with candles, and there was a little carpeted area with some toys. So I sat quietly with my lad and listened. A twinkly middle-aged lady in a pristine robe was telling a story about sharing. Which was rather lovely.
Then everyone started singing – a kindly stranger handed me a hymn book, open at the right page – so I joined in. After the service, we had tea & biscuits and a nice chat about what’s going on in the neighbourhood.
And the point is…?
Every Sunday morning, more than 30,000 gorgeous venues put on an hour or so of ‘theatre’ for free, with the aim of uplifting spirits and giving gentle moral encouragement. My son loves the giant buildings, the smiling grandmas, the boxes of toys, and the free biscuits and juice. I love the feeling of community, a link with older generations, and an anchor in my schedule.
Andy Hill, The Metro 17/9/17 (adapted)