CHURCH LIFE
At St Mary's church, we are constantly bustling with activity! We go above and beyond to serve the wider community by organising an array of activities and events, ensuring that there is something for everyone. ​
For those looking for a musical experience, we host weekly lunchtime concerts that are sure to delight your ears. If you prefer something more educational, our very knowledgeable parishioners organise walking tours around the Hill that are both informative and enjoyable. Our Heritage Walks and Talks highlight the magnificent stories behind the church's 929 year history. These tours are especially popular with visitors who are looking to learn more about the rich history of our community.​
Walking tours are usually led by our very knowledgeable and passionate Judith Shepherd - an expert on all things St. Mary's! Our tours and talks have covered a variety of themes, from famous inventions and Harrow School alumni, to exploring the amazing stories behind some of the smaller schools on the Hill.
Attendance is free, and you can turn up on the day. Below are some of the materials we have compiled over the years which you can download and explore for yourselves!
Children at St. Mary's
At St. Mary's we cater to all, young and old! Through our Sunday school and child-friendly Family Eucharist, we create a warm and nurturing environment for children to grow in health and spirit.
Sunday School and Play Groups
Our Sunday School welcomes all children of infant or primary school age and meets on the third Sundays of the month. For very young children, we have a special play area in church under the tower. The children leave very near the beginning of the service. At the end of the service the children come up and tell the rest of the congregation what they have been doing and learning. On Friday at 10AM our lively toddlers' group take over the Church Room, for an hour and a half of games, crafts and play. There's a baby zone, a book corner, rhyme time and a break for biscuits and juice (coffee/tea for grown-ups) a precious chance for parents to socialise.
School Visits
Many of our local primary schools explore St Mary's Church as part of their Religious Studies programme and enjoy our well worked-out guided visits, which are sensitive to the very varied interfaith nature of the Borough. The visits explain major features of the church building, cover some stories in the Bible as they are illustrated in our stained glass (e.g. the Good Samaritan) and explain a little of our history. Visits can be tailored to particular requirements and interests. Please contact the Parish Office for details.
Gardening and Flower Arranging
From the spectacular displays at Easter, Harvest and Christmas to flowers for weddings, flowers are a reminder at St Mary's of the beauty of creation. We have beautiful flower arrangements across the church, carefully crafted by a dedicated and talented team of volunteers. Our gardeners meet on the first Saturday morning of each month to work on the upper churchyard. A mixture of trees and shrubs share space with banks of wild flowers, set among well cared-for lawns and some ancient and interesting gravestones.
​
The flower-arranging and gardening team is always on the lookout for new members. You don't have to be an expert, so if you'd like to know more contact the Parish Office and join activity that does, as well as feels good.
