Latest update - 04/10/24

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© Nick Berry

2024

The Tenpenny Villages Benefice of Alresford, Elmstead and Frating with Thorrington

Are you new to St Andrew’s, St Anne and St Laurence or St Mary Magdalen?


At most of our Sunday services there’s at least one person there who’s ‘dipping their toe in the water’ to see what it’s all about.

Here are answers to some practical questions you might be wondering about our services...

Will everyone stare at me because I’m new?

There are new people coming all the time, so don’t worry about standing out from the crowd.


Do I have to wear special clothes?

People come in their normal clothes  -  for some that’s shorts and a T-shirt, for one or two others that means a tie.  We’re not bothered.


Will I feel embarrassed if my kids make a noise?

At St. Andrew’s our services have quite a lot of lively children, which is one reason we like it!  They have their own special groups. Parents with young babies can sit in our crèche-room if they like, where they can still hear the service.

At St Mary Magdalen and St Anne & St Laurence, there are toys for small children during the service and folders to help older ones follow the service.  Children are always made to feel very welcome.


What if I don’t know the right words, and don’t know the hymns?

You don’t have to sing if you don’t want to, don't worry - even the most devoted Christians don't always feel like singing.  And there are no words to learn.


I don’t know much about the Bible, so will I know what’s going on?

Every service includes a sermon on the Bible.  We aim for them to be clear, compelling and relevant to our lives, and to explain things so that everyone can understand.


Will I get pounced on, or will everyone ignore me?

We’ll try to welcome you in the way that suits you!  And we serve good quality tea, coffee and biscuits after each service.


Do I need to make a donation?

There is an opportunity for regular church members to give their donations, you may make a donation if you want to, but you are not expected to give anything.


Is it okay to come if I don't believe a word of it?

Absolutely. Come along just to see what it's like; you will not be forced to say things you don't mean or making any commitment you're not ready for. If you want to discuss the faith in more depth, speak to someone after the service, or consider coming on a free Alpha course; these run at intervals through the year.


What is Communion?

Twice a month (Three times at St Anne & St Laurence) the service will also include "Holy Communion". The bread and wine are symbols to remind us of God's incredible love and care for us, shown in the life and death of his son Jesus. You are welcome to take part if you are a baptised Christian from any church. Otherwise feel free to watch, or to come forward for a prayer of blessing instead of the bread and wine.