Lent starts on 18th February, Ash Wednesday. Lent is a time of reflection and gives us space to draw near to God through the daily rhythms in our lives. Lots of us can find it hard to have a prayer life or make time to sit with the Bible and pause.If you are looking for a way in to prayer, listening to a daily service or Bible study, check out these useful apps and links:Daily services from the Church of EnglandDaily Prayer - access full-text versions of our Services of Daily Prayer, which are available in both Contemporary (Common Worship) and Traditional (Book of Common Prayer) forms and for all times of the day.PrayerEveryday Faith - the daily devotional app from the Church of England designed to inspire, equip and encourage you in your faith every day of the week.Our Daily Bread Ministries - offers a wide range of Bible-based resources to encourage and equip you—wherever you are on your journey. From devotionals and reading plans to videos, podcasts, and study tools, each resource is designed to come alongside you with the truth of God’s Word and the comfort of His presence.Lectio 365 - Lectio 365 is a free daily prayer app with morning, midday & night devotionals to help you experience God’s presence in your life.24-7 Prayer - an international, interdenominational movement of prayer, mission and justice; a non-stop prayer meeting that has continued for every minute of this century so far, in over half the countries on Earth.Resources for Lent reflectionDraw Near: Life-Giving Habits for Lent - the Church of England’s theme for Lent 2026 is Draw Near: Life-giving habits for Lent. This year’s resources have at their heart the theme of a ‘rhythm of life’ – habits and patterns which help us grow as disciples of Christ day by day, especially as we prepare to celebrate the great mystery of God’s saving love at Easter. Stewardship - 40 Acts: Do Lent Generously - join thousands this Lent for a 40-day generosity challenge – building habits, deepening faith and reflecting the heart of Jesus through everyday acts. Each day offers a simple invitation to give, bless, and grow in generosity – one act at a time.Free online BiblesBible GatewayScripture Union Bible AppBible StudyThe Bible ProjectThe Way UK (You Tube)The Bible with Nicky and Pippa GumbelPlease contact us through the 'Get in touch' page if you would like access to support through our Ministry Team or access to paper resources.
This February we continue to explore the theme of 'journeying', before we begin the season of Lent.Please click on the flyer on the right for more information about our worship pattern and readings.
St John the Baptist Church is more than a building - it’s a place where our village comes together for community, support, and reflection.During 2025, the church has been active in serving both Smallwood and wider charities. Our Plough Service raised funds to support the church, while the Rogation Service enabled a significant donation to East Cheshire Hospice. We’ve supported Smallwood Academy by providing Bibles, Year 6 leavers’ gifts, and handmade holding crosses created by our YAS Club. At Harvest, the generosity of the village resulted in a large donation to the local food bank, and our Christingle Service continues to support The Children’s Society.Throughout the year, the church has remained open in times of crisis, offering a quiet space for peace and reflection when it has been needed most. Our Ministry Team is always available to support members of the community.St John’s is proud to be part of Inclusive Church, welcoming everyone regardless of background or belief. Looking ahead, significant roof repairs are needed in 2026, and we’ll be holding fundraising events throughout the year to help secure the future of this much-loved village church.Whether you join us at a service, attend an event, or support our fundraising, thank you for helping keep St John the Baptist Church at the heart of Smallwood village life.Revd Heather & Smallwood PCC
