Stratford on Avon Methodist Church

Stratford on Avon Methodist Church is a registered charity (charity number 1152323) and a Christian place of worship located in Stratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom. It operates as part of the Methodist tradition and serves the local community through worship services, fellowship activities, and outreach programs.

Mission and Activities

The church is committed to sharing the good news of Jesus Christ and providing a welcoming place of worship and witness for people of all backgrounds. Its community engagement includes activities such as mother and toddler groups, a children’s choir, fellowship events including brunches and friendship lunches, and various forms of pastoral support[1][2].

Services are generally held on Sundays at 10:30 am and include a variety of worship formats, including joint services with nearby Methodist congregations, Holy Communion, and special seasonal observances such as Maundy Thursday meals, Good Friday services, and Easter celebrations. In addition to in-person worship, the church offers Zoom services to reach those unable to attend physically, fostering a broader community connection[2].

Weekly prayer groups and fellowship meetings also form a key part of the church’s spiritual and social life, featuring phone worship and gatherings to maintain community bonds and support[2].

Environmental Commitment

Stratford on Avon Methodist Church has distinguished itself through its environmental stewardship. It was the first Methodist Church in the country to receive the Gold Eco-Church award from A Rocha, a Christian environmental charity. This recognition reflects the church’s dedication to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint as part of a wider Christian calling to care for creation[3].

The church participates in local environmental initiatives, working alongside organizations such as the Town Council and Warwickshire Wildlife Trust to enhance the ecological value of its churchyard, a partly wooded green space. It also collaborates with local schools and youth groups to promote environmental awareness and action within the community[5].

Leadership

The church’s ministerial leadership includes Deacon Jane Mills, who plays a pivotal role in both worship leadership and community engagement efforts[4].

Stratford on Avon Methodist Church continues to be a vital part of the Stratford community, balancing a commitment to traditional worship and fellowship with proactive outreach and eco-conscious initiatives.

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5036860 [2] https://stratforduponavonmethodist.org.uk [3] https://www.methodist-swc.org.uk/local-churches/minister-audrey-simpson/stratford-upon-avon.html [4] https://www.methodist.org.uk/findachurch/stratford-upon-avon/ [5] https://www.stratford-upon-avon.org/eco-church