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FAQ's - I'm New to Church
What sort of Church is St. Mary Magdalene?
We consider our churchmanship to be 'Eucharistic - Middle of the Road' but labelling a Church gives only half the picture. The best way to find out is to join us in worship for a few weeks. We try hard to be a real 'Parish Church', embracing people from different traditions and denominations as well as those new to the faith and listening to everyone with patience and love. Above all we seek to be friendly, welcoming and open, offering a base from which to 'go in peace to love and serve the Lord'.
What types of Service do you have?
Our Sunday pattern consists of weekly sung Eucharist with hymns. On Thursday morning we celebrate a service of said Holy Communion at 9:30am.
Which Service Books do you use?
For principal Sunday and mid-week Eucharists we use Common Worship Order One. The 8am communion service also uses the traditional Book of Common Prayer (BCP). Readings follow the Revised Common Lectionary.
What about the music?
We sing both traditional and contemporary hymns accompanied by various musical styles but it is, at heart, 'Accessible Anglican'. We are fortunate to have a substantial and well maintained Lewis 2-manual pipe organ.
Is there a dress code?
No, just be yourself and come dressed in your 'normal' clothes.
Will I have to join in?
Not at all - simply observe or participate as much or little as you feel comfortable with.
Is a collection taken?
A collection is not taken during the service but if you wish to make a contribution towards our ministry, a plate is available by the door as you enter (or leave!). We welcome contactless donations by Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Apple Pay and GPay. Located by the Welcome Table in Church, the machine is easy to use and is available both for weekday visitors and at all services. You can also use a
Gift Aid Envelope which enables us to recover the tax you have already paid at no additional cost to yourself.
What happens during Communion?
Everyone is invited to the altar to receive communion. If however, you would simply like to receive a personal blessing, just place your arms across your chest as shown by the Priest.
Can I have someone's name added to the prayer list?
At the Eucharist we include by name, those who have asked for our prayers. Names can be given to the Clergy or Churchwardens.
Do you pray for the departed?
We always pray for the departed, and by name for those who have recently had funerals here. You may also request that someone who has died is remembered at the anniversary of their death (Years Mind).
What degree of accessibility is there?
The West door has level easy access for pushchairs, wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Assistance is also always available for those entering via the South porch. There is a sound system with radio microphones and an induction loop system for use with hearing aids having a “T” setting. Sunday sermons are available to listen to on-line via the website. We can provide large print copies of service and hymn books.
Are children welcome in Church?
We do not currently offer a Sunday School but children are also always very welcome in church, and there are often children and babies at the principal Sunday morning service. We understand that sometimes they may be noisy, and that's OK. There are books and quiet toys in the children's corner. Bolney School regularly uses the church for special services.
Where can I find details of your safeguarding policies?
How do I arrange to talk to someone from the church?
We are pleased to help those who want to talk over their faith, doubt or discuss other matters. If you would like to talk to someone, please do not hesitate to contact a member of the clergy. You can of course speak to the clergy or the Churchwardens before or after a church service. Don't forget, we have no mystical way of knowing if someone is ill or in need of a visit - so please tell us!
Do you have an accessible toilet and baby changing facilities?
We have a disability accessible and equipped toilet with baby changing facilities accessed directly from the church.
Do you have a car park?
There is a substantial FREE tarmac surfaced car park with dedicated disability spaces adjacent to the churchyard, accessed by the narrow lane running parallel to the side of the Bolney Nursery on the A272.
And after the Service?
Coffee, biscuits and conversation follows our principal Sunday morning service and everybody is invited to exchange news and share experiences - new members of the congregation and visitors are especially welcome.