Ministry and Mission

Along with St Martin's (Anglican) and St Mary's (Roman Catholic), we are situated in a broadly residential area enhanced with views of hills and valleys. We believe that our Church has an open and welcoming atmosphere, and are eager to share this with others as we work as the Body of Christ here in Marple Bridge.

Most regular worshippers are involved in more than simply attending services, with tasks ranging from preparation and planning of work with the children to participating in Worship and pastoral care.

We are led by an enthusiastic and committed Eldership who work together as a team under the guidance and inspiration of our Minister, Revd Jane Barron. As part of the Goyt Valley Pastorate, we are happy to work together with our sister churches in Marple and New Mills, bringing a new and exciting dimension to our witness.

• Sunday 10 a.m. Morning Worship with young people's groups - sometimes with All Age Worship

• Sunday 10.30 a.m.bi-monthly Joint Pastorate Service held in each church of the Pastorate in turn.

• Communion is celebrated at least once a month at morning worship

Special Services include Family Festival Services, a Christmas Carol Service and Christmas Day.

For full details of our services and other activties, refer to our Calendar.

Our Church has a good mix of older and younger people, which engenders a feeling of fellowship and a strong sense of belonging. There is a wide range of views within the congregation, from those bordering on the charismatic to a more traditional understanding. The balance is maintained by the open nature of the Church, a willingness to engage in discussion and a strong desire to be led by the Spirit.

Pastoral Care is an important part of our Church life. All our Elders have a pastoral list, backed up by the support and work of the Pastoral Group. An opportunity to pray for members and other individuals arises each Sunday during the service. Good communication within the pastorate as a whole is maintained through the monthly distribution of the Pastorate newsletter "The Link" to the congregation by the Eldership.

Children and young people are particularly valued in our Church and are encouraged, through the work of the Junior Church, to participate in Family Time at the start of Morning Worship and later to return to the congregation and report on activities undertaken in the respective groups before the final hymn. All Age Worship and Family Festival Services give children the opportunity to play a full part in worship, through drama, music or craft activities.

Our vision as Christians is to share the Love of Christ and bring knowledge of the Good News to those outside our immediate circle. We do this in two main ways:
- by showing our support for various local and international organisations and causes.
- through initiatives directed at and directly involving the local community.

From time to time special events such as Coffee Mornings, Plant Sales or Socials are organised to raise funds and awareness for one or other of the causes. In addition, many individual members of the congregation are involved in giving their time to help in a voluntary capacity, often working together on ecumenical projects, such as Marple Christian Care

Regular and Outreach activities