FAITH IN THE COMMUNITY: A new season at our village church
By the Rev Joy Windsor, priest-in-charge, Blendworth, Chalton and Idsworth
AS Spring unfolds, our historic church in the village of Chalton is entering a new chapter.
We’re asking how our faith can be shared in some ways that are open to all and joyful. And one of the ways that we are stepping out is by hosting our very own Messy Church for the first time.
You may know that Messy Church is a relaxed all-age gathering that teaches families about faith through craft, songs – and a shared meal. We’ll offer doing some practical, hands-on experiences including scavenger hunts, lantern-making and time spent exploring nature.
Our first session will be entitled Wilderness and Wildness, and will take place on Saturday 21st March from 2pm, in St Michael’s Church, Chalton – just off the A3 and just north of Rowlands Castle.
For those families that can see church as unfamiliar or intimidating, Messy Church offers something different: space to play, to make things, to ask questions and to spend time together. We’ll notice something of God’s presence in creation and in each other.
I’m really looking forward to welcoming families, and we’ll enjoy being together in the beautiful setting that surrounds our church. It’s free, and you’ll need to book places in advance, by signing up on www.bcichurches.org.uk
For those who prefer a good singalong, we’ll also be hosting a Come and Sing Choral Evensong on May 31. There’s a rehearsal from 2pm-4.30pm, then refreshments, and then the service itself at 6pm. Come whether or not you’d like to join in the singing.
Evensong has long held a special place in Anglican worship, with its gentle rhythm of Psalms, Scripture and music offering a moment of stillness at the close of the day. Opening this tradition to new voices is one way we want to share what we do with others.
Although Messy Church and Choral Evensong may seem different, they are united by the same hope: that St Michael and All Angels might be a place where people of all ages feel welcomed, nourished and able to explore faith at their own pace.
In a world that often feels rushed and fragmented, these gatherings offer something simple but deeply needed — time to be together, space to reflect, and moments of beauty and joy. Find out more on www.bcichurches.org.uk
ST MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS CHURCH, South Lane, Chalton, Waterlooville PO8 0BG
www.bcichurches.org.uk