About Us

A church at the heart of the village for hundreds of years

St Mary’s Church, Depden, has been a place of worship for local people for over 700 years. Nestled in the woods, it has quietly witnessed the life of our village through generations — from baptisms and weddings to moments of reflection and remembrance. Though small and a little hidden, it remains a much-loved part of our community and a reminder of the faith and fellowship that bind us together.

St Mary’s is part of the Suffolk Heights Benefice, which also includes, Chevington, Chedburgh, Hawkedon, Rede and Hargrave, and is within the Church of England Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich. The church is run by local volunteers — members of the Parochial Church Council (PCC) and a wider team of supporters who give their time, skills, and energy to keep the church open, welcoming, and well cared for.

We volunteer because we believe that St Mary’s still has an important role to play — not only as a place of worship and prayer, but also as a community hub for friendship, support, and connection.

The church is best accessed by foot from the layby at Church End, Depden (just behind the green with the village sign on the A143).  You can park there too.  There is a footpath which is clearly marked, but it can be a bit muddy in places.    Due to the church's remote location the church is kept locked, but keys are available for collection from Depden Care Farm - ring Tim on 07816 828016 and he will be happy to let you have it.  

How you can help

We’d love you to get involved! There are many ways to be part of the life of St Mary’s:

  • Come along to services or community events.

  • Lend a hand with cleaning, church flowers, or organising activities.

  • Join our group of volunteers who help maintain the building and churchyard.

  • Or simply help spread the word that St Mary’s is here for everyone!

Supporting St Mary’s financially

It costs around £7,000 each year to keep St Mary’s open and cared for. This includes:

  • Maintenance and repairs to the ancient building

  • Insurance 

  • Churchyard upkeep

  • Contributions to our Minister's salary and pension. 

We receive no central funding — everything we do relies on donations, fundraising, and the generosity of local people.

If you would like to make a one-off donation, you can do so easily from the tile on our home page.