Join us to explore prayer, the Bible and spiritual practices this Autumn.
OCTOBER—a month of prayer and discovery at St John’s
Bible study
Over four sessions in October we will explore the first book of the Bible, Genesis. Each session will take place on Tuesdays at 2.00pm, and be repeated on Wednesdays at 6.00pm.
6 October, 2.00pm (repeated 7 October 6.00pm) - In the beginning
What do the opening narratives of the Bible tell us about creation, our relationship with God and human nature?
13 October, 2.00pm (repeated 14 October, 6.00pm) - Abraham and Isaac
We hear about our great father in faith, Abraham, and the promises made to him, to his son, Isaac, and to his descendants.
20 October, 2.00pm (repeated 21 October, 6.00pm) - Jacob
We hear about Jacob, the father of the twelve tribes of Israel.
27 October, 2.00pm (repeated 28 October, 6.00pm) - Joseph
We think we know the story of Joseph, but there is much to discover about this familiar narrative.
The Quest Community
A community of people using spiritual practices in an ancient and uplifting Christian church for self-exploration, well-being and personal growth
In the autumn of 2026 St John’s will team up with The International Society for Science and Religion for a series of sessions on Friday evenings, starting on 2 October for at least 4 weeks, possibly 6 weeks.
6.00 pm
Exploration of spiritual topics using art, poetry, discussion and personal work
To enrol for these sessions, contact [email protected]
6.50 pm
Listening to ancient Christian chanting in an atmospheric, Gothic space
(you can just listen, or pray, light a candle or be prayed for as you wish)
There is no need to enrol for this part of the evening—please feel free to come and go as suits you.
You can take part in either practice, or both
No religious commitment is required or assumed.
There is no charge for attendance
October—the month of the Rosary
October is the month traditionally associated with the praying of the Rosary, and we commemorate Our Lady of the Rosary on 7 October.
In addition to the regular Wednesday Rosary, we will also pray this devotion on Saturdays at 11.00am during October.
NOVEMBER—the month of Remembrance and of the Holy Souls
Sunday 1 November—All Saints Day.
We celebrate the joy of the heroes of the faith who have gone before us and now enjoy the glory of heaven.
11.00am Sung Mass
6.00pm Mass
Monday 2 November—All Souls’ Day.
We remember the faithful departed and pray that they may come to the joy and glory of heaven
12.30pm Requiem Mass
6.000pm Requiem Mass
Sunday 8 November—Remembrance Sunday
We remember those fallen in war and pray for them as we pray for the peace of our world.
11.00am Act of Remembrance and Requiem Mass
Friday 27 November
6.30pm Memorial Service, arranged jointly with Heart of England Co-operative Funerals.
An opportunity to remember departed loved ones, to be still, to pray, and to light a candle as many families come together in grief.
ADVENT—the season of watching and waiting
Prayer before the Blessed Sacrament
Mondays in Advent (30 November, 7 December, 14 December, 21 December), 12.30pm—1.30pm
We will have the opportunity to pray before Our Lord in his sacramental presence. Part of the hour will include some simple guided reflections as we make time to wait patiently and hopefully for the coming of the Lord.
CHRISTMAS
Sunday 20 December
4.00pm Carol Service
Traditional readings and favourite carols, followed by seasonal refreshments
Thursday 24 December—Christmas Eve
3.00pm Carols round the Crib
A simple service round the crib for all the family, with well-known carols
7.30pm Vigil Mass with carols
The first Mass of Christmas, at a time suitable for those who can't make Midnight Mass.
11.00pm Midnight Mass with carols
The traditional Mass of Christmas night.
Friday 25 December—Christmas Day
10.00am Mass with carols
The Mass of Christmas Day with favourite carols.