At St Mary’s we are blessed with a truly diverse church family, bringing together people of all ages, backgrounds and experiences. Whether you love to sing, help out on a Sunday, or are looking for a group for your children or family, there are lots of ways to get involved and find your place.
Music Makers
For babies and pre-school children with their parents and carers, on Wednesdays in term time from 9.30 to 10.30am. We sing, move, play and make plenty of joyful noise, from nursery rhymes, action songs and finger rhymes to Christian songs, with a Bible story and prayer each week. Afterwards there’s coffee and time to chat. Places need to be booked through the Parish Office. More info…
Messy Church
For children aged 0 to 11 and their families, on the 4th Wednesday of the month from 3.30 to 5pm. We enjoy crafts, games, a Bible story, songs and prayer, then finish by sitting down to share a tea together. Families come from schools across Bideford, and many join us from Music Makers. Places cost £3 per child (£10 for four or more from one family) and need to be booked through the Parish Office. More info…
Treble Makers
Our children’s choir gives young people the joy of singing and performing together, with a great grounding in musical training. Children receive professional tuition, develop good vocal technique and grow in confidence as singers. They sing at our monthly Celtic Communion, host St Mary’s Café in August and sing carols at our Christmas café. More info…
Mothers’ Union
The Bideford branch of Mothers’ Union is part of a worldwide Christian movement, bringing people together to build stronger families, support one another and make a positive difference in the local community. Through friendship, faith and practical action, we work to create a more caring, connected and supportive community for everyone. More info…
Choir
Our friendly, supportive choir sings everything from traditional hymns to contemporary settings and anthems, with music for festivals and civic occasions too. We follow the lectionary and work closely with the ministry team to choose music that enhances each Service. Sight-reading helps, but you don’t need to be a confident reader to join us: a short voice check with the Director of Music will help find the right place for you. More info…
Servers
Dressed in white, our servers help at the altar during our Communion Services. They prepare and set up the altar before the Service and assist the clergy throughout, helping worship run smoothly. They are a friendly team with a good sense of humour, and they count it a real privilege to serve. More info…
Looking for prayer, Bible study or pastoral support? You’ll find Parish Prayer, Pastoral Care, Home Groups and our Lent and Advent Study Groups under Faith.
Our appeal: equipping St Mary’s for the 21st century
Through Project Mustard Seed, we are making St Mary’s fit for the 21st century. Our new entrance is finished and the floors are level, and next come heating, chairs in place of the pews, a kitchen and a meeting space. Find out more about our appeal.
