As you know, our annual Lent Lunches cannot take place under current restrictions, but Christian Aid still desperately needs our support. As an alternative, the local CA committee has devised a few interesting alternatives – one of which i…
A Service for use on Sunday 28th February 2021, the Second Sunday of Lent
At today's Zoom junior church we reenacted the story of Noah and the flood. We had all sorts of animals. The children are so imaginative with their use of Zoom now that we had tigers in the kitchen and sharks in the loo! We also introduced …
This service is designed for use during the morning of 21st February 2021, the First Sunday in Lent, but can, of course, be accessed at any time.
The service for Ash Wednesday is to be held in St Mary's Church at 7.30 p.m. but this may be accessed at any time.
Today we climbed a mountain (hot work even via Zoom!) and heard the story of the Transfiguration. It's a strange one - people appear and disappear, there are sudden clouds, bright lights and messages. (It reminded some of our children of a …
A Service for Sunday 14th February 2021 - for the Sunday before Lent
Swanage Churches Lent Course 2021 - Caring for Creation The human race is facing its greatest challenge: global warming, leading to climate change. This, along with the damage we have done, and are still doing to the environment, means tha…
Today we noticed how God lights up our world with beauty in surprising places. Our Zoom call was a wash with bubbles - they floated around, reflected the light in rainbow colours and made us all laugh as they popped in our faces. God's worl…
Swanage Food Bank February 2021 update : Swanage Food Bank needs a few more volunteers to join our Team. This is a long-term work, and requires commitment for one week every 7 weeks (Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 12 noon to 2.00pm minim…
A service for Sunday 7th February 2021 - the 2nd Sunday before Lent
Team Vicar - Swanage and Studland The Team Ministry of Swanage and Studland, whilst largely traditional and reflective of its lovely seaside location on the Purbeck Coast, is contemplating new thoughts of mission and ministry and seeks a t…
Today at Junior Church we thought about what it is like to wait for something. Some of us are not very patient (we might only wait 1 or 2 seconds for something we really want, like chocolate) It was pretty surprising to hear that Simeon wai…
Dear friends, As we reach the terrible milestone of 100,000 deaths from Covid-19, we invite everyone in our nation to pause as we reflect on the enormity of this pandemic. 100,000 isn’t just an abstract figure. Each number is a person…
The Feast of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple, commonly called Candlemas falls on 2nd February, but we, as with many other churches are transferring the festival to Sunday 31st January. A service for that day is now available and w…
A favourite story today - the wedding at Cana where Jesus turned water into wine! We recreated the wedding scene on Zoom today. There was music (drums and a didgeridoo), laughter and chatting and water that turned into wine. Jesus used his …
This service is designed to be used on the morning of 24th January 2021, the Third Sunday of the Epiphany Season, though it can, of course, be accessed at any time.
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity runs from 18th to 25th January each year.
So what does God look like? We thought a lot about this today. We heard how Samuel hadn't recognised God calling to him. We thought about how you can sometimes see the outline of something but not see the whole picture. It's a bit like that…
This is service for the Second Sunday of the Epiphany season is designed for use on the morning of Sunday 17th January, but can, of course, be accessed at any time.
Today the children explored the story of Jesus' baptism, via Zoom due to the C-19 restriction. We heard how John the Baptist washed away the bad things people had done when we baptised them in the river. It made them clean to start again, a…
On the first Sunday on the Epiphany Season, the Church recalls the Baptism of Jesus
Following the Prime Minister’s announcement of a new lockdown on Monday evening, and considering the seriousness of the current threat of infection of the Covid-19 virus, the churchwardens across the four churches considered the options for…
Epiphany is being celebrated in 2021 in Swanage and Studland on Sunday 3rd January, rather than on its actual date of 6th January. This on-line service is designed to be used in the morning, but can be accessed at anytime.
The First Sunday of Christmas in 2020 falls of St John the Evangelist's Day, 27th December, but In Swanage and Studland we are holding the day as Christmas 1 and transferring St John to Tuesday 29th December.
Live at 4.30 p.m. on Christmas Eve, and can be accessed later as well, is the St Mark's on-line Christmas Carol Service
This service is provided for use at home on Christmas Day, but can be accessed at any time
This year Churches Together is organising a Nativity Safari, inviting households and bubbles to go safely round the churches and explore different parts of the nativity. The trail will start at Emanuel Baptist Church all day from 9am on the…
ADVENT IN ISRAEL – 5 Jesus announces, 'The time has come, the Kingdom of God is near!' The floor of the synagogue in Nazareth is the original! He reads from Isaiah, 'The Spirit of the Lord is upon me!' The eyes of everyone are riveted on h…
We journey with Jesus into the wilderness, where he is tempted by the devil. 'Command these stones to become bread!' But there's no need to negotiate - the matter has already been settled by scripture: 'It is written...' But in the next tem…
Mary, Joseph and Jesus return to Nazareth. We explore their daily way of life in 'Nazareth Village', where the lifestyle of the period has been meticulously recreated. It's on the very site where Jesus grew up. https://youtu.be/5mC4vPpPhB8…
David Nunn takes us to Nazareth and Bethlehem
David is introducing areas of the Holy Land to us through his films. Over the next five days we shall see Bethlehem, Nazareth, the River Jordan etc.
Advent 4 falls on Sunday 20th December this year, and the service which is accessible here focuses on Mary the mother of Jesus as we approach Christmas Day
Please take a look at the Christmas Services list for instruction on who to contact for services that require registration.
Revd Solveig is organising a team Christmas quiz night on zoom for Monday 21st December starting at 7pm.
A service for the Third Sunday of Advent, 13th December 2020.
A few envelopes are still arriving, but we think that we are near to the total for the gift day, held on Sunday 15th November 2020. The appeal was for £20,000 to reduce the parish's deficit for this year. The response has been magnificent…
Melanie received a lovely letter from the Friends of Swanage Hospital acknowledging the gift of £108.30 which was given at the services on 1st November, when we lit candles and remembered our loved ones that are no longer with us.
Congratulations to Lindy Cameron, to be ordained deacon next Summer, as she hears of her appointment as curate to Hilfield Friary.
On Sunday 6th December, services return to the four churches of the Swanage and Studland Team, but for the foreseeable future a service will continue to be on-line services for those unable to join us physically.
Our Assistant Curate Solveig, and a group of friends and colleagues have teamed up to offer you a digital Advent Calendar for this year. A short video will be unveiled every day until Christmas.
Following the success of All Saints' in gaining a bronze award for Eco-Church, St Mark's has now been awarded the same level of certification. Congratulations to Margaret Chinchen and all the team at St Mark's that i know has been working …
The children used the Zoom Explore session today to celebrate the start of Advent with a series of quizzes to find out all they know about the first time Jesus came to earth, and what it might be like when he comes again. The kids know a lo…
The First Sunday of Advent, 29th November 2020 - a service to be read, including hymns, readings and prayers and a short homily.
Today we learnt about the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats and wondered whether we would be like sheep or goats? Keep your eyes peeled with regards to that! We also thought about how Jesus looks after us all, a bit like a shepherd or a Ki…
A Service for the Festival of Christ the King, for use on Sunday 22nd November. Most people will be accessing the service at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. If you can use it at this time that would be encouraging to others following the same se…
Swanage Food Bank November update Again, a thank you to everyone who has donated food to SFB in the past month. Our supplies quickly diminish as the demand increases so these are urgent needs plus a list of items which may contribute tow…
This morning Explore junior church met via Zoom and learnt about the Parable of the Talents - and that got us talking about how many things we are good at. Cycling, scooting, singing, inventing and sharing. We have some very talented childr…
During this second national lockdown, Solveig is preparing an on-line service for St Mark's - which can, of course, be accessed by anyone.
Canon Nick Brown to be the next Precentor of Lincoln Cathedral Congratulations to Nick Brown, whose parents, Liz and Bill (in case you are not aware) are parishioners of St Mary’s Swanage. We are delighted for them too, as they see Nick…
A service designed for use on 15th November 2020. Most people will be accessing it at either 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m., but it may, of course, be used at any time.
Explore (junior church) met via Zoom today to give thanks and remember the bravery and commitment of soldiers - both past and present. We thought about what it would be like to be a soldier and shared stories of family members who have brav…
From Sunday 8th November, St Mark's is adding its own on-line service to those organised by the other churches.
The new lockdown restrictions are going to have a significant affect upon Church life in the coming four weeks.
All Saints' Church have received a Bronze Award of Eco-Church. Congratulations!
A Service for Remembrance Sunday to be read and prayed at home. There are different options for worship on this Sunday, but this will be used by people unable to attend Church during the lockdown mostly at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. Please f…
A Service for Sunday 1st November, All Saints' Day. This service is intended to be used at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. on Sunday as congregations meet in our churches, so that we are praying at the same time. However, it can be accessed, of …
Here is Church on the Phone for the month of November. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
Services are now back in the team churches every Sunday (details on the home page of this website) but an on-line service is available too. If you can please access it at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. on Sunday, when others are using it, and wh…
Swimmers and photographers gathered at Swanage Seafront today for a beautiful sunrise
Here is Church on the Phone for the month of October. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
On 4th October three of our four churches are celebrating Harvest Thanksgiving. Please do join on line at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. on Sunday, if you can, but this service can be accessed at anytime.
The Reverend Solveig Sonet was ordained in St Mary's Church Swanage on Saturday 26th September. A link to a video recording of the service is now available.
A late September update from Swanage Food Bank : the good news is that we have received so many donations of money since this pandemic started, that we do not need further funding aid at present. We are extremely grateful for the regular gi…
A Service for the 16th Sunday after Trinity, designed to be used in the morning of 27th September 2020, but may be accessed at any time. Most people will read and pray it at either 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. on Sunday
Here is this week's contribution of Church on the Phone for the sixteenth Sunday after Trinity. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
Both Swanage and Studland PCCs have met in the course of the past week, and that, in itself, is a matter of note, as they were the first meetings for six months and managed with some people joining from home by zoom. The technology held up…
Solveig’s ordination as priest and Nick’s ordination as deacon are both to be held on Saturday 26th September This coming weekend the ordination services are to take place. That for the deacons in Salisbury Cathedral and that for the pr…
Here is this week's contribution of Church on the Phone for the fifteenth Sunday after Trinity. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
A service prepared for use on Sunday morning 20th September, the 15th Sunday after Trinity. It may, of course, be accessed at anytime, but most people will be using it at either 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. and if you would like to be reading …
St Mark's Primary School has constructed a "Spiritual Garden" in the grounds of the school for individual children and staff, as well as small groups to visit and use as a source of inspiration and meditation. The design was arrived at aft…
St Mary's Choir met on Friday 11th September, socially distanced, with all the other restrictions adhered to, and had an hour singing their hearts out, even managing a descant to "Praise my soul the King of heaven." It was uplifting for us…
These three characters told the story in Junior Church today. Mr Boss (the owl) said Servant Sam (the bigger rabbit) didn't have to pay back the money he owed Mr Boss. Servant Sam was delighted but, sadly, Servant Sam didn't return the favo…
Here is this week's contribution of Church on the Phone for the fourteenth Sunday after Trinity. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
A service designed for use on the morning of 14th Sunday after Trinity. Most people will read and pray this service at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m.. You may wish to join them at one of these times, but it can, of course, be accessed when it s…
Today junior church heard the story of the wise king Solomon and how he used his wisdom to work out which of two women was the real mother of a baby. This got us thinking about wisdom. Who is wise? Where does wisdom come from? How do we get…
This service is intended for use during the morning of Sunday 6th September, but may, of course be accessed at anytime. Most people are likely to be reading and praying it at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. on Sunday. You may like to join them a…
Swanage and Studland are being prayed for today throughout the Diocese as part of the Cycle of Prayer.
Here is this week's contribution of Church on the Phone for the thirteenth Sunday after Trinity. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
The Bishop of Sherborne has arranged for the Swanage and Studland Team Ministry to have an interim minister during the team minister vacancy. He is the Venerable Martin Webster, a former archdeacon in Chelmsford Diocese living in retiremen…
This week's story is another of the parables that Jesus told. Hatty was reminded of the story when she looked out of her window and saw just how big the apples in her apple tree have got.
This service is intended for use on the morning of 30th August 2020, and most people will be reading or praying it at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. when we are used to gathering in one of our churches. It can, of course, be accessed anytime.
Here is this week's contribution of Church on the Phone for the twelfth Sunday after Trinity. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
This service is intended for use on the morning of 23rd August 2020, and most people will be reading or praying it at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. when we are used to gathering in one of our churches. It can, of course, be accessed anytime.
Here is this week's contribution of Church on the Phone for the eleventh Sunday after Trinity. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
Due to the constraints created by Covid 19 the Lifeboat service will take place online only. We hope people will be able to join us in this way.
Sunday 16th August, Junior Church: Build on rock! This week's story is one of the parables that Jesus told. It's about two different people who build their houses in two different ways with very different results.
Here is this week's contribution of Church on the Phone for the tenth Sunday after Trinity. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
This service is intended for use on the morning of 16th August 2020, and most people will be reading or praying it at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. when we are used to gathering in one of our churches. It can, of course, be accessed anytime.
With some families away, there was still ten children thinking about a stormy Sea of Galilee and Jesus asleep in the boat while the disciples tried to sail in the storm.
A service for two people to use on the phone to each other is available here for use on 9th August, the 9th Sunday after Trinity
This service is intended for use on the morning of Sunday 9th August, but can, of course, be accessed at any time. Others are likely to be reading and praying it together at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. on the day. Please feel at one with tho…
Here is the August update of what we need , as requested by kind supporters of Swanage Food Bank, and at the end I've included a short list of commodities we have excess of at present : Urgently needed : * Tinned meats (chicken in sau…
Here is this week's contribution of Church on the Phone for the eighth Sunday after Trinity. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
In August, Junior Church is continuing on-line, but it will have a mix of some zoom sessions and some video links with suggestions for activities. For Sunday 2nd August we are hearing about David and Goliath
A service for the Eighth Sunday after Trinity, which may be accessed at any time, but is designed for use on Sunday, 2nd August at 10.00 a.m., 10.30 a.m., or 11.00 a.m. when others are in our churches and using a similar liturgy. We hope t…
Today we reached the end of the story of Moses. The Hebrews finally arrived at the Promised Land - but they still weren't happy! They sent 12 spies ahead to find out what it was like and whilst they liked some of what they saw they didn't l…
Here is this week's contribution of Church on the Phone for the seventh Sunday after Trinity. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
The service for Trinity 7 is designed to be accessed anytime, but is created primarily for use during the morning of 26th July 2020, when it will be read and prayed by others, especially those accessing it during the time when others are in…
Today at junior church we continued the story of Moses. Poor Moses found it was quite difficult to keep everyone happy, especially when everyone was thinking about what they wanted and not thinking about others. We talked about how hard it …
This service may be accessed at any time and includes two hymns and a short homily. You may like to use it on its designated day, 19th July 2020, the Sixth Sunday after Trinity. Most people will use it at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. on that …
Here is this week's contribution of Church on the Phone for the sixth Sunday after Trinity. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
Junior Church continued with the story of Moses and how, with God's help, he set the Hebrews free. God had to send a lot of surprising messages (rivers of blood, swarms of frogs, hail and darkness!) before the Egyptian king finally agreed t…
Here is this week's contribution of Church on the Phone for the fifth Sunday after Trinity. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
Services are now being held in the Church buildings, but there will continue to be a service on-line for those unable to attend during the current health crisis. If you would like to use this service on Sunday 12th July, we hope that you f…
Families met by Zoom once more on Sunday 5th July, and continued to learn the story of Moses.
This service is provided for all who would like to access it, and for use at any time. It is suggested that we use it while the services are happening in the churches of the Swanage and Studland team. This Sunday, they will be happening a…
Here is this week's contribution of Church on the Phone for the fourth Sunday after Trinity. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
Junior Church took place by zoom again on Sunday 28th June. Seven families coming together and sharing their thoughts about the baby Moses.
This service of readings, prayers and hymns, with a short homily is intended for use on Sunday 28th June at either 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m., as others are reading it at the same time, but it can, of course, be accessed when it may suit you.…
Solveig’s ordination as priest and Nick’s ordination as deacon are both deferred until September This coming weekend the ordination services were to have taken place in Salisbury Cathedral. The priests’ ordination was to have been on Sa…
Today, in junior church, we looked at different types of crosses and thought about what it stands for and what people mean when they say "take up your cross". We also thought about fathers and grandfathers who so often put the needs of thei…
A simple service with hymns and a short homily can be accessed here. It is intended for us at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. on Sunday 21st June, at the same time as others are reading and praying and singing, during the hour when they would nor…
This week's contribution of Church on the Phone for the second Sunday after Trinity is from Revd Tony Edmonds. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
Dear Friends As you will know we have been functioning at a very reduced level since lockdown - our last rather sad meeting which actually included a full morning of deliveries, collections and prayers together, was on Thursday March 19th.…
Seven families met by zoom today and the children tried to learn the names of the disciples!
On Monday 15th June 2020 there is to be a small but important milestone reached, when, after nearly three months, the churches are to open once more.
The service for the First Sunday after Trinity, 14th June, has hymns and a short homily. It is intended for use at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. on Sunday (when others will be reading it, and praying at the time of their normal service, when he…
Here is this week's Church on the Phone for the first Sunday after Trinity. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
Families met again today to learn about God as Trinity.
Here is this week's Church on the Phone for Trinity Sunday. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
The service for Trinity Sunday for the Swanage and Studland Team is designed for use at either 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. on Sunday 7th June, when others are using it, but it may, of course, be accessed anytime during the week.
Church Alive has been printed for June and is being distributed at the moment,
Happy Pentecost! Happy Birthday! Today everyone at junior church came wearing something red to remind us of the flames that leapt on the first Pentecost. We felt what rushing wind is like by blowing on our fingers and we heard the story of …
I received an Irish Blessing from singers from every county in Ireland today. John Mann
This service for Whitsunday or Pentecost is designed for use at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. on Sunday 31st May, as others will be accessing it at those times. You may like to use it at anytime during the day, or in the days that follow.
Here is this week's Church on the Phone for Pentecost. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
On Thursdays 4th and 18th June St Mark's will be holding a Zoom Coffee Morning between 10.30am and 11.15am.
David takes us back to the Holy Land and weaves stories of the ministry of Jesus into his account of the early days of the Christian Church, unfolding the steps of Paul to his dramatic conversion on the Damascus road.
Sunday 24th May, the Sunday after Ascension Day and children and their families are exploring how Jesus ascended to heaven, but is still with us!
The service for 24th May is intended for use at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m., whenever is the usual time for your Sunday worship, but it may, of course be accessed and used at any time.
Here is this week's Church on the Phone for the sixth Sunday of Easter. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours.
The service to be found here is one that we invite anyone to use at any time, but it is designed for 7.30 p.m. on Ascension Day, Thursday 21st May, when we can be assured others will be reading it at the same time and joining in prayer and …
Last week the kids explored how Jesus shows us the way during junior church. This morning we thought a bit more about how he does this. He's like a map which shows us where we can go - and where we shouldn't. The different ways we could go …
A service of readings, with homily and prayers, hymns and Easter alleluias is to be accessed here. If possible please follow it with others at either 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. on Sunday 17th May.
Thy Kingdom Come radically revamps in the light of Covid-19 The global prayer campaign Thy Kingdom Come has launched new elements, including ‘Prayer and Care’, in response to the coronavirus pandemic. A global prayer movement, character…
The Christian Aid Facebook page reveals that people across the country are being very inventive with their fundraising activities this year!! They are completing marathons, walking and sharing coffee with friends but all from their own home…
Junior church met (via Zoom) today to think about how Jesus helps us find the way to God. We talked about following a path - that might sometimes be fraught with danger or uncertainty - but that it isn't always easy to know which way to go.…
All Saints has a special on-line service commemorating the 75th Anniversary of VE Day. It starts at 10.30 on Sunday (and is available throughout the following week). Just go to www.allsaints-swanage.org and follow the links.
The service for the Fifth Sunday of Easter, 10th May 2020, which may be accessed anytime, but designed especially for use at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. whenever the main Sunday service usually begins in your church.
The Swanage Christian Aid Committee have asked us all to access the service produced by Christian Aid for this Sunday, and use it, if possible in our homes, but altogether in fellowship, at 4.30 p.m. on Sunday 10th May.
On this day, 8th May 2020, the 75th Anniversary of VE Day the bells of St May's and St Nicholas' were to have rung with those across the country at 7.00 p.m. A service was to have been held at 9.00 a.m. in St Mary's for the whole community…
In another of David's video clips he captures the excitement of one of the best loved of all the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus, as he walks with two disciples on the road from Jerusalem to Emmaus.
Here is this week's Church on the Phone for the fifth Sunday of Easter. Please continue to share on the phone with your family, friends and neighbours,
Swanage Churches Together have organised a pastoral helpline for anyone that would like to speak to one of the clergy of the town.
Information has been issued from the Christian Aid Committee in Swanage concerning Christian Aid Week 2020, as there cannot be a house-to-house collection or an actually Church Service. All is on-line!
As funerals are limited in the number of people that can attend at the moment, using a service at home may bring us close to others who would have been with us, had it been possible .
This morning we thought about sheep - real sheep, cotton wool sheep, but also the idea that we are Jesus' sheep, and that he looks after us like a shepherd looks after his sheep. He gives us food, he guides us when we are not sure what to d…
Lyra, a small group of Russian singers, were due to perform a concert in Swanage last night and contribute in the liturgy at St Mary's this morning.
Pauline Werba on behalf of the Swanage Food Bank makes an appeal for help this week.
The service for the Fourth Sunday of Easter
Explore Junior Church meets via zoom each Sunday at 10.30am.
Junior church met via Zoom again this morning and heard the story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus. There was a lot of walking and talking in the story and we thought about who we'd like to go for a walk with and what we might talk ab…
Please use this service at any time, but if possible join us at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. on Sunday 26th April 2020, when others will be accessing Sunday worship together.
Concern has been expressed by a number of people regarding Christian Aid Week, and what is to be done about a collection and service this year.
This week's Church on the Phone is for the third Sunday of Easter. Don't forget to share on the phone with your family, your friends, your neighbours, or your buddy.
A MEETING THAT CHANGED THE WORLD! David Nunn describes a vow he made about the momentous meeting of Mary Magdalene with the risen Lord - and how that vow was fulfilled after 50 years! The Garden Tomb in Jerusalem vividly evokes the great…
Having just spoken to a representative of the Swanage Food Bank, I have the current situation of need to give you: Stocks are "moderately good" overall and "good" for cereals, pasta, sweet biscuits, soup and baked beans. The following w…
Dear Friends, I wanted you to know that this morning I announced my retirement as vicar of All Saints on my 65th birthday (26 July). If you would like to hear the announcement then do have a look at All Saints Family Worship On-Line at …
Today junior church met via Zoom once again. We were thinking about how hard (or easy) it can be to believe in things you can't see. The children had brilliant examples of things they couldn't see but knew were there (people who have died, …
This week's Church on the Phone is for the second Sunday of Easter. Don't forget to share on the phone with your family, your friends, your neighbours, or your buddy.
A week on from Easter Day and we meet the disciples encountering the risen Christ, and experience the doubt of Thomas and then his great affirmation of faith.
The St Mary's Cross set up near the brook in sight of the road for Good Friday was covered in flowers for Easter Day.....
Tim Silk brings us news from Spring Harvest
We thank David for his contributions during Holy Week, which have brought alive the places in Jerusalem where the action was taking place. Now he brings us news of the Resurrection!
Tony Higgins had the idea that we could light our church's Easter candle and put them on the website this morning. Thank you Tony and Andrew and Solveig! A happy and blessed Easter to you all, John.
Simon Lole begins a new TV series talking about sacred music.
Christ is risen! Alleluia! Inspired by one of our parishioners the children all made Easter Gardens today. Thank you for the idea Elizabeth and Happy Easter everyone!
Liz Coffin has sent these beautiful sunrise photos of Easter Day in Swanage
This week's Church on the Phone. A special Easter service to share on the phone with your family, your friends, your neighbours, or your buddy. Happy Easter to you all! Solveig
Solveig explains that without it being possible to hold an Easter Vigil this year, we may access a vigil, on line, in which she is taking part: For this year’s Easter Vigil, the Revd Morna Simpson and a group of clergy from across the co…
Regular Church-goers as well as many occasional worshippers attend services every Easter to receive Holy Communion. It is special for us on the Day of Resurrection, which in one sense is every Sunday, but Easter Day is special, so how do w…
A Service for Easter which we invite you to use anytime, but particularly at 10.00 a.m. or 10.30 a.m. when the churches of Swanage and Studland have their principle Eucharist of the day.
David provides us with further insights into Jerusalem at the time of our Lord's Passion.
Every year in St Mary's we meet in Church for Three Hours from 12.00 noon to 3.00 p.m. to listen again to Christ's Seven Words from the Cross; to pray; to sing; to meditate on our Lord's Passion. Today we do so from our homes
In recent years 'Churches Together in Swanage’ have featured David Nunn’s plays as a memorable focal point for our Good Friday meditations. Performed by an extremely talented cast drawn from several of our churches, these plays have a grea…
David adds a further Jerusalem film for us today as we think of our Lord's arrest and imprisonment
The service accessed here is designed for use during the evening of Maundy Thursday, 9th April this year. Many of us will begin it at 7.30 p.m., but it may, of course be used at any time
Please do access David's second piece for Holy Week as we consider the areas of Jerusalem that are integral to the Passion story.
Today, David takes us to the Mount of Olives as he starts a series of short films for this Holy Week. Today it is: PATER NOSTER CHURCH and DOME OF THE ROCK We visit the cave where Jesus first taught the Lord's Prayer and about the end …
Junior church celebrated Palm Sunday, with 7 families meeting virtually via Zoom, We sang about Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey, read and talked about the Easter Story and made our own version of palm crosses. It was fun!
A service for Palm Sunday with links to hymns and music, a short homily is provided also.
here is this week's Church on the Phone order of service from Revd Solveig Sonet.
Palm crosses have been sent out in the post to everyone in the four churches,
Come and Sing, which should have been this Sunday now can no longer take place, of course, but you can sing along to Simon's hymns, and hear him play.
We couldn't meet in St Mary's for junior church this morning (obviously). Instead we got together via Zoom and shared a story, talked about how important friends are, including our BBF (Best Friend Forever), Jesus. We said prayers as we tho…
"Phone a friend" may be shorthand for keeping in touch, but how about worship shared along a phone line? Solveig has produced a liturgy that two people can use, including words to share and words to exchange. She includes a sermon and the…
Do you shop online? ‘YES’ – then read on................... If I told you that there was a simple, safe, and FREE way in which you could carry on shopping just as you do at the moment, but at the same time raise money for the church, would…
We are very grateful for the generous support which our community has given Swanage Food Bank. Mark Richardson has supplied us with a plentiful amount of tinned and dried food, with the promise of more. We have also received provisions from…
Church Alive (April issue) is now available on the website (look for the yellow banner on the 'News & Events' page). Solveig's lead article from the magazine is published separately here:
As the church office has been forced to close for the time being, we are unable to produce printed copies of the parish magazines...
We regret to announce that the Swanage Parish Office is closed from today (24th March) for the foreseeable future,. Karon and Mel will be working from home, but we recognise that not everything can be provided as is usual. Church Notices …
“The Archbishops and Bishops of the Church of England have urged everyone to follow the instructions given by the Prime Minister to stay in their homes in a national effort to limit the transmission of the coronavirus (COVID-19). But th…
At 7.00 p.m. candles were being lit across the country, remembering the presence of God in our midst, and our unity one with another at this time of national crisis.
The Archbishop of Canterbury has provided an inspirational service for the Church of England today
Every year flowers are given for distribution in our churches. This year with no congregation meeting for a service, the flowers are being left at the doors and gates of St Mary's Church as a gift to passers by.
Today in the absence of services in any of the four churches we are providing a service that you may like to read, sing and pray through by clicking on "blog" on this website. We all, throughout the country have the opportunity to hear the…
There are various options of prayer to be found via this link...
The Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby is to lead a national broadcast as the Church of England responds to the challenge of becoming a “different sort of church” in the face of the coronavirus crisis.
Sunday will be a national day of prayer. It is Mothering Sunday, so a good day to give thanks for the source of our life and care of one another. Resources are being made available for people to use at home. Wherever you are this Sunday pl…
As one can imagine the Food Bank is under particular pressure at the moment, and that pressure is only likely to increase as things become difficult for many families that are struggling financially.
During this difficult time, we are not going to be able to gather weekly to rehearse all our music, or to sing on Sundays in worship for the time being.
As many of you are aware, the Archbishops of Canterbury and York issued a statement on Tues-day 17th March suspending church services for the immediately foreseeable future.
In view of the Archbishops statement this afternoon, the Team Rector will make some arrangements tomorrow ...
The Archbishops of Canterbury and York are calling for Church of England churches to put public worship on hold and become a “different sort of church” in the coming months to face the challenge of coronavirus.
Mothering Sunday is on 22nd March and our churches will be celebrating with special services.
Following the recently updated advice issued by the C of E, and the general concern for sensible precautions, I am requesting the following, from Sunday 8th March, for all attending services of Holy Communion: 1. Those who are in the pra…
In conjunction with an article in the Church Times this week, when Solveig was interviewed over her views concerning changes to the immigration regulations, we publish today an article by her expanding on the Church Times item.
David Stevens, Sub-Assistant Organist at Wells Cathedral, will be joining us on Sunday 1st March for 'Come & Sing' Choral Evensong.
“Come and Sing” Choral Evensong – 1st March, St Mary’s Church. All singers welcome. Arrival for rehearsal is 4.00pm - all music is provided. Do come and sing with St Mary’s Choir! Tea and cake before the service, which begins at 6.30pm.
Saturday morning of fun for all primary school children. St Mary's Church, 29th February, 10.30am - 12 noon.
ASH WEDNESDAY is on 26th February. Services in our Team churches:
St Mark's Church will be holding a breakfast club during the school half term (17th-21st February). All welcome.
Mothers' Union Wave of Prayer. Thursday 6th February 2020. T
“Come and Sing” Choral Evensong – 2nd February, St Mary’s Church. All singers welcome. Arrival for rehearsal is 4.00pm - all music is provided. Do come and sing with St Mary’s Choir! Tea and cake before the service, which begins at 6.30p…
The Any Questions? Meeting scheduled for Thursday 30th January has been cancelled due to David Williams, the speaker, being unwell. We wish David a swift recovery! John Mann
The Parish of Swanage Gift Day was very successful and the PCC is most grateful to all who contributed to the appeal for £15,000 ....
The cheque mentioned in the letter sent, as well as the St Mary's collections, includes the collection from the URC, which hosted a carol concert by the Purbeck Village Quire, of £190.
On Sunday 26th January we will meet in the Church Hall at 6.30pm for “Prayer and Share” Everyone is welcome to share each-others company, to share a glass of something and to share how we may pray, both as individuals and together.'
St Mark's Church is starting its first Community Coffee Morning this week on Thursday 23rd January at 10.30am till 12.00 in St Mark's Church Room.
Another stunning sunrise looking from Swanage this morning, and mist across the town between the hills. Some photos from the vantage point of above Peveril Point.
This month's Any Questions meeting is being held on Thursday 30th January, 7.30pm at the Methodist Church, High Street, Swanage. All welcome.
On Sunday 12th January, St Mary's hosted a visit by Malcolm Archer as guest director of music for Choral Evensong. Simon Lole played the organ and visiting choir members from other parishes and churches provided a nicely balanced ensemble …
Swanage Churches Together - Service for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 10.30 a.m. on Sunday 26th January at Emmanuel Baptist Church (please note the change of venue from the URC)
St Mary's Church Choir is looking for new members to join us now...
A "Come and Sing" Choral Evensong at St Mary's Church Swanage has become a regular part of the service schedule. Generally held on a first Sunday of the month, in January 2020, it is actually to be on 12th January at 6.30 p.m. The usual t…
THE SWANAGE TOWN COUNCIL COMMUNITY AWARDS 2019/20 Nominations are open until the end of January 2020. Please do nominate someone or some group for an award this year! Swanage Town Council Community Awards 2019/20 Nominatio…
Swanage and Studland Team Ministry Service – Readings & Carols for Epiphany – 5th January 2020, 6.30pm at St Mark’s Church, Herston. Please do try and come if you can. The Team church choirs join together, readings and carols are heard as…
The crib service in St Mary's is at 4.00 p.m. on Christmas Eve. It features live animals ( a donkey at the door and other animals in the stall inside the church) and all the children that would like to dress up and take part in the nativit…
Swanage Town Carol Service: 6.30 pm, Sunday 15th December. This town carol service brings together musicians and singers, members of all the churches, and everyone who wants to be part of the town celebrating the approach of Christmas. A…
You are all welcome to join us at 3pm on Sunday 15th December at St Nicholas Church, Studland for our Chrinstingle service.
Choral Evensong, tomorrow, 8th December, the Second Sunday of Advent, is to be one of our monthly "Come and Sing" celebrations. This opens the choir at St Mary's to anyone who would like to sing Choral Evensong occasionally. The usual…
On Sunday 1st December, Bishop Karen was visiting St Edward's Church, Corfe Castle, and some children from St Mark's Primary School were there too They took the opportunity to issue an invitation from all of the children to come to their C…
The Explore event on Saturday 30th Nov proved popular with 40 children and their parents enjoying making Christmas wreaths, crackers and different forms of gift wrap. The adults seemed to have as much fun as the children. Thank you to every…
Please use this Christmas Leaflet to find all the services being held over the Advent and Christmas period at our 4 parish churches.
Congratulations to Nick Brown (Bill and Liz Brown's son) on his installation as a canon of Lincoln Cathedral.
1st December - Advent Sunday. Today marks the beginning of a new Church Year (Year A - for the schedule of readings),
Come and join us at St Mary's Church on Saturday 30th November, 10.30am-12pm for a morning of fun activities preparing for Christmas...
A few more photos from Remembrance weekend. These are from Friday 8th when children and young people from the schools in Swanage came for their time of Remembrance ...
As well as attending the service on Friday 8th November at which all the schools participated, a representative number of children from each primary school in Swanage were at the War memorial and service on Sunday. St Mark's School have se…
Any Questions will be meeting at Swanage Methodist Church, High Street, Swanage on Tuesday12th November.
The Town Remembrance Sunday Service will be held this Sunday, 10th November. Please note the time for this service is 2.30pm.
“Come and Sing” Choral Evensong - 3rd November 2019 - St Mary’s. The monthly opportunity for any singers to join St Mary’s choir for Choral Evensong falls at All Saints/All Souls tide this November.
A service in which to remember - 6.30 pm, Sunday 27th October - St Mary’s Church - There is a general invitation every year to all who have lost loved ones,
Canzonetta warmly invite you to an hour of song for an Autumn afternoon
Hugh Morris (Director of the RSCM) conducts the augmented choir in St Mary’s for “Come and Sing” Evensong on Sunday 6th October."
Simon with his award certificate in Salisbury Cathedral after the celebratory service last Saturday.
Chris Stratta, Regional Manager for the Leprosy Mission will be joining us at St Mary's for 10.30am Choral Eucharist on Sunday 13th October.
Come and join us at St Mary's Church on 12th October for Saturday morning fun, with craft activities and animal magic for all primary school children....
This month we have the pleasure of the Director of the RSCM, Hugh Morris, joining us for 'Come & Sing' Choral Evensong at St Mary's. Why not come along and enjoy an evening of singing with us too.
Saturday 5th October 2019 – Salisbury Cathedral, 5.30pm Every year the RSCM Council confers Honorary Awards on those who have made outstanding contributions to church music.
St Mary's 10.30 a.m. service on Sunday 22nd September will include a sermon by Reverend Alex Mabbs, who is to conduct a workshop on environmental issues on Saturday 21st September in All Saints' Church (please see separate news item on this…
“Keep Calm and Save the World!” (How to make a positive difference in an over-heating world, without losing your cool) A half-day workshop exploring creative Christian responses to the climate crisis Saturday 21st September, 2.00 – 4…
The Little Birds (St Mark’s Pre-School) was presented, on Monday 16th September, with a cheque for £1,950.68
At the Swanage Civic Service on 15th September 2019 in St Mary’s Church, children from three of the Swanage schools contributed poems, which were read out at the service.
Three Swanage schools contributed poems to help the focus of the 2019 Civic Service in St Mary's be firmly placed upon the environment. The poems can be read on this website.
Tuesday 17th September at 7.30 p.m. (refreshments for 7.00 p.m.) In Swanage Methodist Church. Paul Baird introduces a discussion on the issues that surround the things that cause division between Palestinian and Israeli.
The Swanage Town Civic Service is to be held on Sunday 15th September at 3.00 p.m. in St Mary's Church. All are welcome.
You are most welcome to the Swanage Folk Festival Service at 10.30 a.m. on Sunday 8th September in St Mary's Church.
Sunday 1st September at 6.30 p.m. Choral Evensong is held in St Mary's Swanage every Sunday evening, but once a month the choir is expanded with those who would like to sing evensong occasionally.
Have a passion for sharing with Jesus with children? Like serving Jesus...
On Thursday 29th August at 7.30pm St Mary's are hosting an evening of cellow favourites introduced by Natalie Clein, Guy Johnston and Abel Selaocoe.
Here are some pictures taken at the Parish Fete last Saturday. The day started a bit unsettled but the sun soon proceeded to shine through and a very enjoyable day was had by all.
Churches Together in Swanage and District invite you to Carnival Praise, to be held on Sunday 28th July, 11am-12 noon at Prince Albert Gardens (near the pier).
The third in St Mary's summer series of organ recitals is to be held on Thursday 18th July at 7.30pm.
The second in our series of Summer Organ Recitals takes place on Thursday 4th July at 7.30 p.m.
On Sunday 7th July we welcome Dr Peter Nardone, to lead us in our “Come and Sing” Evensong.
This year's Parish Fete will be held on Saturday 20th July, 12 noon - 3.30pm in the grounds of St Mary's Parish Church, Swanage.
The Reverend Solveig Sonet was ordained deacon in Salisbury Cathedral, with seven others, on Sunday 30th June.
Congratulations to all who have been instrumental in creating a modern and well-designed new reflective space in the original chapel area of Purbeck View School.
Solveig Sonet is to be ordained deacon next Sunday to serve as assistant curate in Swanage and Studland. Please pray for her and all who are preparing for ordination, both as priest and deacon at this Petertide.
At 5.00 p.m. on Sunday 16th June about 30 people, villagers, friends and visitors gathered at Manor Farm in Studland to walk around the village and pray at various points, remembering the life of a village community in the past, and celebra…
The first of a series of four Summer Organ Recitals takes place on Thursday 20th June at 7.30 p.m.
The Dorset County Orchestra are holding a concert at St Mary's Church on Saturday 22nd June at 7.30pm.
A special event coming up on 16th June at St Nicholas "A Celebration of Rural Life" Sunday 16th June at 5.00pm starting at Manor Farm. A chance to walk round the centre of the village to sing and to pray for the community so bountif…
On the morning of 11th June, Bishop Karen, other faith leaders and members of the clergy from Swanage, will be celebrating the re-imaging of the chapel as 'a reflective space for all'.
“The Come and Sing” Evensong for June will be held this year on the second Sunday of the month - June 9th ...
Saturday Morning Fun - Saturday 8th June, 10.30-midday Come and explore the meaning of Pentecost through craft activities, story telling and kite flying (weather permitting). This is a free event designed for primary school children and …
This year mark's 50 years of the Biennial Flower Festival in St Nicholas' Church, Studland...
This month's Any Questions discussion is led by Dr Helen Morris, Course Leader at Moorland Bible College...
The annual fun day at All Saints is to be on Saturday 8th June
SONGS OF PRAISE Sunday 12th May 1.15pm Sean Fletcher visits the 20,000 strong Christian event, Spring Harvest, in Minehead, Somerset, for its 40th anniversary. Sean speaks to those who have been running the event for four decade…
The Christian Aid Service is to be held on Sunday 12th May at 4pm at Swanage Methodist Church
May thanks to Chris for the photos from last Sunday evening in St Mary's as the augmented choir rehearsed with Dr Barry Rose
On 5th May at 6.30pm in St Mary's Church, Swanage, Dr Barry Rose, OBE, will be joining us for 'Come & Sing' Evensong. Rehearsal at 4pm; refreshments 5.45pm. All are welcome to join in.
Here are some photos for you to enjoy of events and floral arrangements over the Easter period.
The Archbishops of Canterbury and York are encouraging, where possible, all cathedrals and churches across England to toll a bell for 7 minutes at 7pm this Thursday (18 April), as a mark of solidarity following the devastating fire at Notre…
Explore the events of Holy Week with paint, water, wood, nails, eggs and singing at St Mary's Church, 10-11.30am on Good Friday, 19th April.
The Full list of services for Holy Week and Easter is available on a flier to be found in all of the churches and includes events and services that are arranged by Churches Together in Swanage and District also. The principal services each …
On Sunday, 7th April, at 6.30 p.m. there is to be a service of Passiontide readings and music in St Mary's Church Swanage.
A note from Simon Lole, Director of Music at St Mary's Church.
On Sunday 31st March at 10.00am St Mark's Church, Herston will be holding a Mothering Sunday service. Click here for more details.
Pauline Werba and Alan Dominy are amongst Swanage Community Award recipients. The Swanage Community Awards have been announced for 2019. Amongst a number of wonderful people in the town to receive awards we are delighted to mention two o…
Congratulations to Director of Music at St Mary's Swanage, Simon Lole, who has been awarded a high honour by the Royal School of Church Music.
The Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) Report for St Mark's CE Primary School was published at the end of last week. The school was judged to be "Excellent" overall in its effectiveness as a school holding a dis…
Services on Ash Wednesday are as follows: 8.00 a.m. Morning Prayer - St Mary's 10.00 a.m. Holy Communion - All Saints' 11.00 a.m. Holy Communion (with the imposition of ashes) - St Mary's 2.30 p.m. Penitential Service - St Nicholas' 7.…
Any Questions? is on Friday 8th March at 7.30pm in Swanage Methodist Church, High Street, Swanage. The discussion is led by Justin Brierley, editor, radio presenter and author. Subject - 'How can I believe in a God who allows suffering?'. …
There will be a Women's World Day of Prayer service in St. Mary's Church on Friday 1st March, 12 noon - 1.00pm. The Swanage Bible Society invite you to enjoy a soup lunch in the Rectory Classroom, Church Hill from 12.00 Noon to 1.30 p.m. An…
To our Wave Friends and Supporters, In this season of Epiphany, I hope you will still accept our very best wishes for a very Happy New Year. We hope it will be a healthy and blessed one for all.
“Come and Sing” Choral Evensong - 6.30 p.m. 3rd February 2019 - St Mary’s Swanage Would you like to join the choir of St Mary’s for Choral Evensong on Sunday 3rd February? Please come along at 4.00 p.m. for the rehearsal with Simon Lole…
Swanage Food Bank and Alabaré Christian Care & Support have both written to thank the Church for the donations collected over the Christmas period. The support for the homeless, given at the Town Carol Service on 16th December was from th…
Monday to Friday 21st to 25th January, in St Edward's Church Swanage there are to be daily prayers and reflections led by community organisations in Swanage. Please join them each day at 12.00 noon
A prayer for today: Father, we pray today for your healing. We shall step out, or, meet people at home. Teach us to use our eyes and ears to learn more of your world in all its beauty, as well as its pain. Give us words when we need t…
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity runs from 18th to 25th January each year. In Swanage, we mark it from Monday to Friday, with an ecumenical meeting for thought and prayer on a particular theme, with a united Church service on a Sunda…
Nominations are now open for Swanage residents to suggest people and groups in the town who have made a special contribution to the community. We are all asked to think of those who are our outstanding possibilities for an award, provided …
The Festival of the Epiphany fall on Sunday 6th January 2019 with the usual Sunday morning services across the churches acknowledging the showing forth of the Light of Christ to the Gentile world in the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus…
I have been very aware of the fantastic support and prayers for me from the congregation over these past eight months whilst I have been receiving my hospital treatment. This week I have learnt that everything now looks clear and that I can…
The Four Swanage and Studland Church of England Churches all have services on Christmas Eve and on Christmas Day The pattern of services is:
4.00 p.m. Christmas Eve - Crib Service - St Mary’s Church, Swanage The crib service is a special place for children to be on Christmas Eve. Just when we are all at our most excited, with the anticipation of Christmas Day only a few hour…
The Christmas Carol Service at All Saints' Church - 7.00 p.m. 17th December
On 6th December at Salisbury Cathedral the nave was full of children for a 50th Anniversary Christingle Service. That is, fifty years since the Children's Society first began to promote the Christingle Service in the Church of England. Tw…
The Swanage Town Christmas Carol Service takes place on Sunday 16th December at 6.30 p.m. in St Mary's Church. The music is provided by orchestra, choir and organ and readers represent all the churches in Swanage, with the Mayor of Swanage…
The Studland Carol Service is to be held on Tuesday 11th December at 6.30 p.m. All Welcome
“This Sunday’s “Come and Sing” Evensong will give our visitors the chance to join with the choir to sing some wonderful Advent music. The lovely carol “The Angel Gabriel” will open the service and then our singers will get the chance to sin…
The Purbeck Village Quire invites you to celebrate the Christmas Season with them on Sunday 9th December, 4pm at the United Reformed Church, High Street, Swanage.
At the end of last week, nominations opened for Swanage residents to suggest people and groups in the town who have made a special contribution to the community. We are all asked to think of those who are our outstanding possibilities for …
Advent Sunday Special Services: Christingle Service at 4.00 p.m. in All Saints’ Church Advent Carol Service in St Mary’s at 6.30 p.m.
Saturday morning fun! A free event for primary school children. Come and join the fun at St Mary's Church on Saturday 1st December, 10.30am - 12 noon
A quick summary of our journey since Monterey on the 5th November. A wonderful drive down the Pacific Highway. Reminiscent of Cornwall but on a grand scale! So many “vista” opportunities and a whole beach full of basking Elephant Seals. A s…
The Remembrance Service for the Town of Swanage is to take place today, 11th November, at 2.30 p.m. A parade is to leave the Mowlem Theatre at 2.00 p.m. arriving at St Mary's Church for the service. The parade is to leave the church after…
Today I am writing from Monterey on the west coast, about 100 miles south of San Francisco, after a deviation through the Yosemite National Park. It is Sunday 4th November, and the end of daylight saving on the west Coast
This Sunday, 4th November, there will be a service at 6.30pm in St Mary's Church, Swanage. There is a general invitation every year to all who have lost loved ones, both in the past few months, and longer ago, to attend a service at All …
On Sunday 4th November at 6.00pm we shall be joined, as usual on the first Sunday, by extra singers from across the Purbeck area who enjoy augmenting our regular choir to sing Choral Evensong.
It is ten days since our last message. We are now on the west coast in San Francisco. So how did we get here? Most importantly we returned to Atlanta to do our washing! A quick flight to Chicago followed.
A Service in Which to Remember: Sunday, 4th November 2018, 6.30pm at St Mary’s Church, Swanage Each year, near to All Saints’ Day and the season of Remembrance, we hold a service to remember those who have died during the past year, as …
The Royal British Legion in Swanage is inviting everyone to mark the beginning of 11 days of Remembrance in the town, with lanterns and candles, at St Mary's Church at 7.45 p.m. on Thursday 1st November. The church bells will be ringing ha…
“We move on to the “serious leafs peeping” which occurred in two venues either side of the Kancomagus Highway, a 37 mile leisurely journey with lots of places to stop and gasp.
On Saturday 13th October, children and parents arrived at St Mary's for a special activity time for Harvest. The children made corn dollies, designed biscuits, made a collage with leaves and seed heads, and Kevin Burke entertained everyone…
The Wave Team and Trustees warmly invite our friends and supporters, old and new, to join them for a delicious cream tea...
We have been out of cyber reach for 4 days whilst in the State of Maine. We have been staying in an Airstream Caravan with no wifi and have deliberately avoided TV or Radio on our travels, but now we are back in the world once more.
Singers are invited to come and join St Mary's Choir for Choral Evensong for Harvest on Sunday 7th October. Please arrive for the rehearsal at 4.00 p.m. All music will be provided. There will be a cup of tea for thirsty singers before th…
2nd October 2018 - Yesterday Jane and I went solo. After time with our son and daughter-in-law in Atlanta, friends in Columbus and Lima Ohio, we are now in Pennsylvania on the banks of Lake Erie.
Hello from Atlanta! We are re acclimatising to 32 degrees C. However the Episcopal church of the Epiphany was beautifully air conditioned. Everyone was just leaving as I took these photos, and a la St Mark’s and St Mary’s people stay to li…
Canon Peter Burtwell will celebrate 60 years as a priest on St Matthew's Day, 21st September. He was ordained deacon in Ripon Cathedral in 1957, and priest in St Margaret of Antioch, Leeds in 1958. We wish him every blessing in his contin…
Thank you so much to all who contributed to the folk festival service offering in St Mary’s last Sunday, which is to go to the Christian Aid emergency appeal for the flood victims in Kerala, in India. You will be thrilled to know the tota…
Jenny & John Lazenbury invite you to any one of their Cream Tea’s at 127 Victoria Ave., on 12/13/14 September, from 2.30pm onwards. Proceeds from voluntary contributions, to be shared between St. Mark’s Hall & Church Fund, Marie Curie Nurse…
Peter Burtwell has been retired and living in Swanage for more than twenty years. In that time he has been fully active in the team ministry of Swanage and Studland as priest. On 21st September, St Matthew’s Day, Peter will have been a pr…
On the first Sunday of September, - Sunday 2nd – at St. Mary’s Church in Swanage by having another “Come and Sing” Choral Evensong. We are aware that there are a good number of singers in the local deaneries who love to sing choral evensong…
The Swanage Folk Festival is to take place on the second weekend in September as in previous years. St Mary’s has a very special (and quite different and informal) morning service, and looks forward to welcoming many visitors on Sunday 9th …
On Sunday 2nd September there is to be a special service at 10.00 a.m. in St Mark’s to celebrate five years of John Cooper’s ministry in St Mark’s Church.
A beautiful new website is now live for St Nicholas’ Church which gives much more detail than the section on Studland on the Swanage Team website. You may access it by clicking on the link to St Nicholas on the home page of this website an…
The Annual Swanage Lifeboat Service will be held on Sunday 19th August at 6.00pm at the Lifeboat House. Please note that this is a new venue for this service as in previous years it has been held on Swanage Pier.
1,400 bell ringers died during the First World War. Honour their memory by becoming one of 1,400 new bell ringers this year and be part of a nationwide moment...
Battle's Over.... A Nation's tribute - 11th November 2018. 100 years of Remembrance. Be part of history...
After a fine run of three organ recitals, that have been well attended and much enjoyed, we have, sadly, had to cancel that by Simon Lole which should have been held next Thursday, 9th August. We are looking forward to hearing it sometime …
Choral Evensong at 6.30 p.m. on Sunday 5th August will be happening as usual on the eve of the Transfiguration of our Lord, however it is not to be with extra choir singers and additional rehearsal as has been the case for the past few firs…
On behalf of the Fete planning group may I say a very sincere thank you to all who played a part whether small or large, in making the 2018 Grand Parish Fete last Saturday such a success with so many generously contributing goods and items …
Robert Quinney is Organist of New College, Oxford. In addition to the daily direction of New College’s world-famous choir, his work comprises teaching, lecturing, and examining, as a Tutorial Fellow of the college and an Associate Professor…
Whilst parish fetes are not just about fund-raising, and it was lovely to such a happy occasion last Saturday, on the other hand we are all eager to know how much has been made! The total, with perhaps a little more still to come, to be sh…
The sun shone, the queue was forming by 11.30 a.m., the smell of the barbecue drifted enticingly across the grass, and the Mayor opened proceedings at 12.00 noon! It was a good day. Many thanks to all who worked so hard for its success!
The annual Swanage Parish Fete is on Saturday 21st July from 12.00 noon to 4.00 p.m., in the grounds of St Mary’s Church....
Art Workshop is FOUR years old! Thank you to everyone who has helped us towards this success! Art Workshop is a charity with premises in central Swanage, dedicated to providing accessible art sessions for everyone, regardless of artisti…
To our Wave Friends, Supporters and Volunteers, We hope you like our new logo….the Team are very proud of it. It was lovely to see so many of you at the Summer BBQ on June 16th. Thank you for coming, and we hope you had fun. It seems…
Organ Recital - Thursday 12th July at 7.30pm in St Mary's Church, Swanage David Poulter was born in Kent and educated at The Kings School, Rochester and at The Royal College of Music, London where he was a Foundation Scholar and Walford …
Bishop Karen visited Swanage for a Confirmation service last Sunday and nine candidates were confirmed. It was a very happy occasion and the Bishop, speaking from the Gospel of the day, and the sending out of the twelve disciples by Jesus,…
A service of confirmation and eucharist is to be held in St Mary's Church on Sunday 8th July at 10.30 a.m. Bishop Karen will preside and nine adults are to be confirmed: Sam Brooke, Barbara Crowley, Gemma Elleray, Ian Kimber, Solomon Lamb, …
Former Dean of Belfast, the Very Revd John Mann, said the award of Honorary Doctorate from Ulster University was a ‘surprise and a huge honour.’ John was Dean of Belfast for six years before moving to Dorset last September as Team Rector…
Please note that due to the Swanage Town Civic Service being at 3.00 p.m. on 1st July, and involving the Choir, the service in St Mary's at 6.30 p.m. is to be said Evening Prayer, rather than Choral Evensong, which, on the first Sunday of t…
Gordon Stewart was born in Scotland and after studies in Manchester and Geneva with Gillian Weir, Eric Chadwick and Lionel Rogg, he was for 15 years a cathedral organist, first in Manchester then in Blackburn. For 28 years he has been Borou…
The Dorset County Orchestra will be presenting their Summer Concert at St Mary's on Saturday 23rd June at 7.30pm.
An invitation from Simon Lole: On the first Sunday of June, - Sunday 3rd – we are going to have the second of what is a new initiative at St. Mary’s Church in Swanage by having an “Open” Choral Evensong (on 6th May the choir and congrega…
Welcome to the Summer edition of the Link Visiting Scheme Newsletter...
We have the privilege of a visit from Revd Rose Hudson-Wilkin, Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons and Honorary Chaplain to the Queen who led prayers at the Royal Wedding on Saturday. She will lead a discussion on 'Faith and …
Churches Together in Swanage and District held "Pentecost Praise" in St Mary's Church on the afternoon of Pentecost Sunday. The service included well-known hymns and songs, familiar readings and an uplifting interview by Nick Viney of Mark…
A year after the organ's successful rebuild, St Mary's are hosting four organ recitals. The series will open on Thursday 28th June with a recital by Dr Gordon Stewart who is one of England’s finest concert organists.
Ascension Day began in St Nicholas with a celebration of Holy Communion at 6.30 a.m.; the sun casting its brilliant light across the churchyard and through the east window. At 9.00 a.m. the Churches Together gathering was in the open air,…
Churches Together in Swanage and District is promoting ten days of prayer starting on Ascension Day, 10th May. For full details click here....
St. Mark’s Church - Sunday 6th May - 11am Family Communion (Please note later time of service) will be followed by a Church lunch at 12.30pm. If you would like to come a list is available (on the table by the Font in Church) for your name …
The new weekly, mid-week, afternoon service in St Mary's, specially for all experiencing memory loss or dementia - and for all who are caring for and supporting others - begins at 2.30 on Tuesday 1st May. All welcome..
Yesterday, 29th April, St Mark's Church held its patronal festival, transferred from last Wednesday (St Mark's Day is 25th April). It was a very happy occasion with twelve children and over forty adults present. There was a cake and candl…
ALL SAINTS TO SPRING HARVEST – 8th to 12th APRIL 2018 ‘Only the Brave’ was the theme of this year’s Spring Harvest and 106 determined disciples (mostly from All Saints) made their way to Minehead to find out what it was all about. Feeli…
The April/May issue of the Wave Newsletter can be found by clicking here!
On the first Sunday of May, - Sunday 6th – we are going to start a new initiative at St. Mary’s Church in Swanage by having an “Open” Choral Evensong.........
On Saturday 21st April, St Mary's Swanage hosted the Quarterly Meeting of the East Dorset Branch of the Salisbury Diocesan Guild of Bellringers. Ringing from 2.00 p.m. until 4.00 p.m. was followed by a service conducted by the Team Rector …
Today, Saturday 21st April, 2018, from across the Diocese of Salisbury over 1,000 people gathered in the cathedral to celebrate and affirm lay ministry in the parishes......
On Tuesday afternoons from 1st May onwards, at 2.30 p.m. in St Mary's Church, we are beginning a special service that we hope will be helpful for those who either are experiencing some degree of memory loss or are supporting others who have…
Come and enjoy Pimms & Hymns at St Nicholas Church, Studland on Sunday 22nd April at 6.30pm. A less formal form of Worship. To include some much loved traditions, and a time to be refreshed Everyone will be welcome
The Very Reverend John Mann, Team Rector of Swanage and Studland received the Lambeth Cross for Ecumenism from His Grace, The Archbishop of Canterbury, at an awards ceremony held at Lambeth Palace on Friday 6th April 2018.
10.30 a.m. and the first Wednesday of the month and it must be TPot in the Rectory Classroom...
St Nicholas starts to fill up for the Easter Sunday Service and little Elodie wins the Giant Easter Egg Raffle!
The new paschal candle was lit from the Easter fire last night outside St Mary's, blessed and brought into the dark church. The light was shared and the story of our redemption retold from the Scriptures to the announcing of the Resurrecti…
Easter Day, and daffodils and lilies, primroses and tulips fill our churches. They express new life and beauty and joy. Thank you to our flower arrangers. These pictures are mostly work in progress during today. All four churches will l…
Baking Hot Cross Buns and making Easter Gardens and Easter Cards etc., fully occupied thirty-six children, parents and leaders for an hour on Good Friday morning......
Details of the services across the four Anglican churches and Churches Together events over the four days from Maundy Thursday to Easter Day
On 8th April, seventy-five of us from All Saints (and another twenty-five friends and relations) will be off to Butlins at Minehead for five days of fellowship, friendship, teaching, learning, worship and fun! We’re off to Spring Harvest (…
The children and staff of St Mark's Primary School attended St Mark's Church for their Holy Week and Easter services on Tuesday 27th March; KS1 in the morning KS2 after lunch
What is the Aldhelm Certificate? How do I sign up? Read on for more details.....
23 March 2018 Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, “so, Jesus got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, d…
Details of all the services in the four Anglican Churches on Swanage and Studland from Palm Sunday to Easter Day, plus Churches Together in Swanage and District events for Holy Week and Easter
St Nicholas' Studland on a sunny Mothering Sunday
Mothering Sunday at St Mark's
Mothering Sunday Preparations - Saturday 10th March Can you make a cake by magic; choose a card for Mum without seeing it, conjure flowers from an empty bag? Maybe not, but Kevin can! Children and parents, friends and helpers from All …
Parish Giving Scheme to be launched in Swanage on 1st March. The Diocese of Salisbury is encouraging all parishes to join the Parish Giving Scheme.