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CHURCHES |
St Mary's,
Apsley End.
The Revd. David Lawson
The Revd. Karen Turner
The Revd. John Quill
Welcome to St Mary's Church, Apsley
01442 261610
email: davidmlawson@lineone.net
Churchwardens:
Richard Chase |
Susan Jakeman |
St Mary’s Church, a Grade 2 Victorian listed building, was consecrated in 1871, and was the vision of Charles Longman, a senior partner in John Dickinson’s paper mills which dominated the old industrial village of Apsley. The village was the birthplace of paper’s industrial revolution, now being preserved as a unique heritage site. The church is a fine gothic, flint building, with spire and six bells. The village of Apsley has changed beyond all recognition with the disappearance of the paper mills and very significant housing development taking place.
Over the last few years the church has experienced growth in membership and commitment, with a large number of young families and children now part of the church community. Following a recent faith event entitled Xcite 2008, the church is reflecting on the way ahead. House groups were part of the preparation for Xcite 2008 and are now very much part of the life of St Mary’s. New working groups are in the process of being formed to manage and develop the church’s ministry and mission, and also to draw more people into the heart of the church community so that it becomes more an expression of the Body of Christ.
There is an on-going discussion and exploration by the congregation to consider re-ordering the interior of the church making it fit for the purposes of 21st century worship and mission. Also, the refurbishment of the toilets and kitchen is about to begin and then consideration will be given to re-wiring the church, installing a new lighting system and replacing the inside wooden door in the church porch with a glass door to let light into the church and also to be a more welcoming entrance for all who cross the threshold of the church.
Among its community involvements St Mary’s currently participates in a number of inter-faith events and activities, financially and practically supports two local charities – Druglink which supports those affected by substance misuse and DENS which seeks to meet the needs of homeless people in the Borough of Dacorum. The church also supports the work of Christian Aid and the Bishop of St Albans annual harvest appeal, which this year is entitled ‘Changing Climate, Changing Lives’.
Since 1847 there has been a church school in the district. The school was built by John Dickinson for the children of his employees at the paper mill. The school continues to draw children from the local community and beyond and is assessed as a school with a very strong Christian ethos. School and church links are very strong with several governors being committed church members.
A very warm welcome awaits anyone who wishes to become an active member of St Mary’s where we believe there is a place and a role for everyone. For more information about the worship, life and work of the church see below.
Services
Sundays
8.00am Said Eucharist
10.00am Sung Eucharist & Young People’s Groups
Evensong
6.30pm Sung Evensong
Thursdays
9.30am Said Eucharist
Morning Prayer
Morning prayer is said on most days but times and days do vary, please see the church notice board or contact us for details.
Developing our Faith
Splash and Bubbles
- For children aged 3 – 10 +
- Learn about Jesus and our Christian faith through stories and activities, singing and drawing.
Yes Group
- For young people aged 10 +
- An opportunity for a more mature reflection and exploration of faith
Buzzy Bees
- A busy, lively and friendly place for young children and their carers to meet
- Tuesdays at 10 am – noon in the Refectory
- Games, toys and play equipment, craft activities, songs and a snack
- We have occasional mini services in Church, group trips and special events
Confirmation Classes
- These take place each year
Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals
- Contact Revd David Lawson on 01442 261610
- or email: davidmlawson@lineone.net
Other ways to develop your Faith include:
- Advent and Lent Bible Study Groups
- Prayer Groups
Further information is available on the church notice board
Regular Events at St Mary’s
Mondays and Fridays
- Working Party. A group who meets to look after the church and churchyard and share a sociable coffee. Newcomers are always welcome!
Thursdays
- ‘Thursday Forum’. This social group meets after the 9.30 am Eucharist on the first Thursday of the month and invites a guest speaker
Saturdays
- The Church is open every Saturday morning for visiting and quiet time, refreshments are available.
Social and Fundraising Events at St Mary’s
- We have a variety of events, some regular favoutites and some ‘one-offs’. Something for everyone!
- Quiz Evenings/ Wine and Beer Tasting/Craft Evenings / Pottery Painting
- Summer barbeque and family games to celebrate our church’s birthday
- Christmas Bazaar and Summer Fete
- Advent and Palm Saturday Children’s Workshops
Details of current events, services ‘this week’ and some sermons can be found here.
Website links of local interest:
Druglink www.druglink.ltd.uk
DENS www.dens.org.uk
Nash Mills Primary School www.nashmills.herts.sch.uk
The Paper Trail www.thepapertrail.org.uk