FESTIVALS
All the Christian festivals are celebrated well in the three churches. Festivals are enriched with the Common Worship styles of service. The churches adhere to all the liturgical colours of the year and, where possible, the Saints' Days are celebrated at the midweek Communion Services across the Benefice.
THE CHURCH YEAR
ADVENT
During Advent, there are services for the season of the preparation for the coming of Christ, including Contemplating Advent and an Advent Carol service. Advent courses are open to all, to have an opportunity to deepen our own faith in small home groups. Carol Services at held at all three churches, including Community Carol Singing at St Peter’s.
CHRISTMAS
A variety of services are held over Christmas. There is the Crib Service at St Dunstan’s; a Christmas vigil at St Peter’s; Midnight Mass at St Dunstan’s and St Mildred’s. Then on Christmas Day there is a Communion service (Eucharist) at St Dunstan’s and St Peter’s, and an informal celebration at St Dunstan’s.
EPIPHANY
During Epiphany (up to 6 January), St Mildred’s Church holds an Epiphany Carol Service followed by tea.
LENT
Each year, the Benefice follows a Lent Course to provide an opportunity for each of us to study biblical themes together and grow in faith. It is a good way of preparing ourselves for Easter. Everyone is welcome to join a Lent Course.
HOLY WEEK & EASTER
There are several services across the Benefice over the Easter period, from Palm Sunday through to the Easter Vigil and Easter Celebrations.
ASCENSION AND PENTECOST
The three Churches follow the Common Worship Times and Seasons style of worship, making the most of the rich liturgy on offer.
ROGATIONTIDE
The perimeter or boundary of the Benefice is 6.5 miles. Each year at Rogationtide there is a day where everyone can come and join in the walk round the perimeter, to follow the long-held tradition, which is to 'Beat the Bounds'.
ORDINARY TIME (TRINITY)
This is an opportunity for ministry, prayer and growth, to discern where God is calling us.
ALL SAINTS' DAY TO CHRIST THE KING
This is the season of All Saints' Day and Remembrance, where the services celebrate and reflect on the reign of Christ on earth and in heaven.
PATRONAL FESTIVALS
The Churches celebrate the feast day of the patron saint of their respective churches.