Sunday Services
We meet for our main Sunday Mass at 10:30am.
There is a smaller Said Mass held at 08:00am Sunday mornings for a quieter, more contemplative alternative. This is held at the High Alter in church.
Our style of worship is in the catholic traditional of Church of England, but we're also quite relaxed. The music in our service is led by our organist and choir, we read some bible passages, pray, and take communion. Incense is used throughout the service and is a strong part of the church’s tradition; it symbolises prayer, and conveys a sense of the mystery of God.
You can watch our Sunday Mass here...
Life events
Weddings
"Marrying in church is personal, meaningful and spiritual just as you want it to be. Churches are special and unique places to get married in - the prayers, promises and the whole service of celebration become part of your marriage, on the day itself and beyond." (Church of England)
Legally, you are entitled to get married in St. John's Church if either one of you lives in the ecclesiastical parish of St. John the Evangelist, Upper St Leonards – or if you live in another parish but you have a "qualifying connection" with St. John's. We are also proud to provide Blessings for same-sex couples.
Funerals
"A church will always be there to help you through one of life’s most difficult times. A Church of England-led funeral is available to everyone, giving support before, during and after the service, for as long as it’s needed." (Church of England)
Anyone who lived in the parish is entitled to have their funeral conducted in the Parish Church.
The funeral director plays a very important part in all the arrangements and will want to know if the funeral is to be in the parish church or if the minister is to take the service in the crematorium. As a general co-ordinator, the funeral director should be your first port of call and will take the burden of worry off your shoulders.
Christenings/Baptisms
"Anyone can get in touch with a church to find about having their child christened. During a christening your child will be baptized with water. It’s the start of an amazing journey of faith for your child and a special day for all your friends and family." (Church of England)
Every child who lives in the parish of St. John’s has the right to be baptised at the church. If you don't live in the Parish it may still be possible.
For information on any of this please contact the parish office, details can be found here...