The latest edition of Sharing the Vision is available to download below.
Wessex Synod
of the United Reformed Church- Home
- Synod
- Our Work
- Calendar
- Safeguarding
- Document Library
- Contact Us
- Meet the Team
Good News Story – Community Accessible AED
In June I was approached by one of our local councillors asking if he could fund a community accessible defibrillator outside High Cross Church. Having spoken to a few people and checked locations, we agreed it would be a great project and the ideal location would be outside the café doors so it was accessible […]
Legacies of Slavery
Download the Legacies of Slavery Consultation document below: LoS Consultation Overview Document Further information can be found on the URC website: https://urc.org.uk/our-work/legacies-of-slavery.html
Synod Deployment Consultation
Ministries & Learning Committee are inviting congregations, ministers, elders, young people – anyone involved in the life and witness of Wessex URC congregations – to take part in a consultation about their vision and mission for the future. The feedback will feed into proposals for future patterns of ministry and deployment in Wessex about which […]
URC Safeguarding Training & Development vacancy
URC Training and Development Coordinator for Safeguarding 2 year fixed-term contract, 28 or 35 hours per week. Home based. Are you passionate about equipping people with skills and resources to safeguarding the vulnerable? Further information.
Synod Papers available now – October 2021
Synod meets in person on Saturday 9th October High Cross Church Knoll Road, Camberley, GU15 3SY The Synod Papers are available to download below in either pdf or Word format Download: Legacies of Slavery Consultation Overview Document Synod Apology Slip Find High Cross on the map Poster swap information We have looked at […]
URC Designated Safeguarding Lead – job advert
URC Designated Safeguarding Lead Are you a motivated and dedicated professional who has a strong conviction to safeguarding all people? Permanent contract, 35 hours per week. Salary: circa £50,000. Flexible work environment with hybrid working from Church House in London and from home. Further information including job description and closing date for applications.
What is God asking of YOU?
Ministry Enquirers’ Event on Saturday 2 October 2021, 10am – 4pm on Zoom to help you think about God’s call to Worship Leading Lay Preaching Ministry with children and young people the Ministry of Word and Sacraments Church Related Community Work Chaplaincy Contact: ministries@urc.org.uk to register and receive programme details. Publicity flier
September “in person” Area Gatherings
Topic: Reporting back from General Assembly Tea/Coffee at 6.30pm for a 7pm start – finishing by 9.15pm. Everybody Welcome North East – Monday 6th September at Guildford URC South East – Tuesday 7th September at Havant URC South West – Monday 13th September at Trinity Church, Ringwood North West – Wednesday 15th September at Wheatley URC
Church Regeneration Worker Vacancy – Oxford
Are you being called to help the church grow? Are you the prayerful, passionate and imaginative person we need to help a small but energetic congregation fulfil its vocation to be the church for all ages at the heart of its community? Can you help us pioneer new forms of church ministry and community outreach […]
New Freedoms, Same Responsibilities
As the Governments in England, Scotland and Wales move towards reducing or ending Coronavirus restrictions on Places of Worship, the Synod Moderators offer the following guidance to congregations of the United Reformed Church. We remind churches of the Great Commandments: to love God with our whole being and love our neighbour as we love ourselves. All […]
September “in person” Area Gatherings
Topic: Reporting back from General Assembly Tea/Coffee at 6.30pm for a 7pm start – finishing by 9.15pm. North East – Monday 6th September at Guildford URC South East – Tuesday 7th September at Havant URC South West – Monday 13th September at Trinity Church, Ringwood North West – Wednesday 15th September at Wheatley URC
URC News Update
The latest edition of NewsUpdate is now available at the following link: View NewsUpdate here
Praise from the Heart – Psalm resources
For many years, Revd. Duncan Wilson (now a retired minister in Banbury) has been using the lectionary’s choice of Psalms each week as a call or introduction to worship. He has paraphrased each psalm as a responsive call to worship and is now offering them as a resource for churches and worship leaders to use […]
Safely celebrating Holy Communion
Safely celebrating Holy Communion In response to a few people asking recently how best to deal with Communion at this stage of the pandemic, here is some general guidance, recognising that each church needs to respond according to local risks and their own customs. There is no “one size fits all” solution. Government Guidance as […]
Good News Story – URC vaccine appeal tops more than £23,000
Generous donors have helped the United Reformed Church (URC) raise more than £23,000 for Christian Aid. The initiative started when Salisbury URC member Meg Abel, suggested that people might wish to show their gratitude for their own Covid-19 vaccinations by helping to raise funds to supply coronavirus vaccines to countries struggling to afford them. The idea […]
Good News Story from Woking URC
What shall we do for Christian Aid Week this year? Faced with a second year of not being able to share with other local Churches in collecting from homes, outside the railway station and a big store, Woking URC, in addition to another Zoom Quiz Night, took on the challenge of a different kind of […]
Supersleuths: URC resources for Holiday Clubs
FREE – Heroes and Villains Holiday club from the URC 2021 Supersleuths – publicity poster Are you planning to run a holiday club this year? Whether it’s the first one you have run or you run them regularly this Holiday is for you. Get your detective hat and coat on, grab your magnifying glass, there […]
Next Steps, children & youth
Planning for in-person children’s and youth programmes in local URC churches. Online zoom session led by the CYDOs, Phil Ray and Ruth White. Choice of dates: Thursday 13 May 2021, 10am – 11.30am or Saturday 15 May 2021, 10am – 11.30am. Please email to book your place and receive the zoom link Publicity flier
Could you be the next Synod Treasurer?
The key areas of practical involvement for the Synod Treasurer: As a Trustee, taking a strategic overview of the Trust’s financial position, and representing this where relevant to Synod and Trust meetings as necessary Representing Wessex Synod in national and inter-Synod meetings of URC Treasurers (opportunities for sharing of practices and […]
Wessex Summer Camps 2021
Wessex Summer Camps 2021 Unfortunately, due to ongoing restrictions Wessex Summer Camps will not happen in 2021.
World Day of Prayer
What a wonderful blessing technology has proven for uniting so many people for the World Day of Prayer, Friday 5 March. Salisbury, Andover, Poole and Devizes joined forces and hosted a Zoom service with 198 screens joining, several with 2 people. There were 22 people involved as readers, 3 pre-recorded musicians, and 5 on the […]
Junior Church members speak at Synod
Two of Salisbury URC’s Junior Church came to Synod on Saturday 13th March and spoke to the meeting. Their contributions can be read by following the links below: Alex’s Statement of Faith God’s Garden by Alice
Christians on Ageing
Christians on Ageing provide useful resources, and are running a series of events in late spring/summer of 2021. More details from https://christiansonageing.org.uk
URC Black History Monthly
The URC’s Legacies of Slavery task group has launched a new initiative – Black History Monthly. Each month throughout the year, a different article, film, book, or poetry by Black writers will be explored so that people can learn about Black History through a variety of lenses. More details available here: URC launches Black History […]
Synod Papers available now – March 2021
Synod meets virtually on Zoom on Saturday 13th March 10am start – finishing by 16:00 Voting members sign-in from 9.30am Non-voting members and visitors sign in from 9.45am Join the Zoom Meeting using: https://zoom.us/j/95094248805?pwd=ZW0yUkY0akNFaFNhR2VxM1pWcmNrQT09 Meeting ID: 950 9424 8805 Passcode: 013302 The Synod Papers are available to download below in either pdf or Word […]
Holy Week podcasts for 11-14 year olds
2021 Holy Week Mini Podcast Series A series of 8 daily recordings to listen and engage with throughout Holy Week 2021. Aimed at 11 to 14 year olds, each recording includes a Bible reading, reflection, prayer, and a response activity. Podcasts will be released daily from Palm Sunday (28th March) until Easter Sunday (4th […]
Crossfire Volunteer Vacancy
You may be aware that GEAR, together with URC Youth, has supported Crossfire with their annual youth camp and other events aimed at young people for many years now. The Crossfire Committee regularly reviews the structure, leadership and procedures to ensure that these camps and events can provide the right level of support and guidance […]
World Day of Prayer Service 5 March 15:00 on Zoom
Friday 5 March is World Day of Prayer. While many communities have caved in to the pandemic, Andover, Devizes, Poole and Salisbury area World Day of Prayer planning groups have rallied and united to provide an exciting and vibrant service open to all. This ecumenical event involves several churches. Salisbury URC is hosting on Zoom […]
The Windrush Community Fund
The Windrush scandal was a 2018 inhumane scandal concerning people who were wrongly detained, denied legal rights, threatened with deportation resulting in heartache and pain for many long-term UK residents. The UK Government Home Office (HO) seek to correct the wrongs by initially enlisting the support of Windrush Community Ambassadors (Sept 2020-Jan 2021) and now […]
Racial Justice Sunday – 14th February
Racial Justice Sunday – ‘What Kind of Love?’ Details: Racial_Justice_Sunday
Living in the Anthropocene: Resilience and adaptability
A blog from the Tragedy and Congregations team, www.tragedyandcongregations.org.uk I am writing this in mid-January 2021. We are in our third lockdown in the UK. A new more highly transmissible variant of Covid-19 is sweeping through the country. Of late, daily deaths have numbered over 1,000 (today over 1,500). When will it end? Today the […]
GEAR Pray4URC Thursdays from 18th February
Pray4URC – another short series of weekly prayer meetings on Facebook Live from 18 February The GEAR team is hosting another short series for four Thursdays leading up to Mission Council in March. As in the two series last year, a guest will introduce some prayer needs in the URC family and then a panel will […]
Lent for Youth, ages 15-25 yrs (online)
Come and join us online, meet new friends, see old faces again and have fun, reflect and explore together who we are and what God is calling you into. Publicity flyer. We will meet over 6 weeks for 2 hours each session, 7-9pm, using the film ‘Rocketman’ and Bible readings to explore together. Each […]
February Synod Gatherings (formerly Area Gatherings)
February Synod Gatherings will be taking place online again and will use the same zoom link each evening. You are welcome to attend any or all of them. 6.30pm for a 6.45pm start – finishing by 8pm. Zoom Meeting Link for all 4 gatherings: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86716262994?pwd=LzVsZVFRY0ZMYTlPVHp4WUlnNVNUQT09 Meeting ID: 867 1626 2994 Passcode: 866343 Monday 22nd February […]
2021 URC Line Management Training dates
Line Management 2021 dates are released on the HR training page: https://urc.org.uk/training-events.html To reserve a place for these training sessions, please contact the HR office at deepti.upadhyaya@urc.org.uk Why Manage – Part 1 Date: Thursday, 18 February 2021 Time: 10am – 12 noon Training delivery mode: Online Why Manage – Part 2 Date: Thursday, 29 April 2021 Time: 10am – 12 […]
Ministry Enquirers’ Event online 27 Feb
What is God asking of YOU? Ministry Enquirers’ Event online to help you thing about God’s call to Worship Leading Lay Preaching Ministry with children and young people the Ministry of Word and Sacraments Church Related Community Work Further information and booking details.
Webinar – Good Governance in Churches: Expectations of The Charity Commission
This webinar, delivered by the Charity Commission’s Faith Outreach team, provides an overview of the Commission’s expectations as regulator, including: – Trustee duties & risk management – Financial management and reporting in a faith charity context – Sending money internationally – Safeguarding in places of worship. The webinar is suitable for trustees and managers of […]
Wessex Events children and youth 2021
Here is our exciting programme of events 2021 for children and young people. Save the dates and keep an eye out for further details.
Newsletter children’s & youth January
Bimonthly Update from the Children’s & Youth Team at Church House – January 2021. We hope that the new year sees you healthy and in positive frame of mind, thinking of the ways to develop children’s and youth work further through the things we have learned during the very different year we experienced in 2020 […]
Guidance on closing church buildings for public worship
The Synod Moderators have issued their latest guidance in response to the national lockdown. It can be found at the link below: Guidance from the Synod Moderators on closing church buildings for public worship
Sight Loss Friendly Church
The Sight Loss Friendly Church team is part of Torch Trust for the Blind, a Christian charity dedicated to enabling blind and partially sighted people to live fulfilling Christian lives. They do this by producing large print, braille and audio versions of the Bible and other leading Christian publications, and by empowering churches to include […]
Youth (dis)Assembled January 2021 for ages 14-25
The URC’s Children’s and Youth Work team has organised two, free, live online events for all young people aged 14 to 25 that have a connection to the Church. Fun with ‘Folk On’ takes place on 30 January 2021 from 8-9.30pm, and a worship service takes place on 31 January 2021 from 8-8.45pm. Read […]
Safeguarding Newsletter December 2020
Here is the December issue of the quarterly safeguarding newsletter. Safeguarding Newsletter – December 2020 – Online version Safeguarding Newsletter – December 2020 – Print version
Advent Quiet Day 19 December – All Welcome
Advent Quiet Day Saturday 19th December 10.30am to 3pm Led by Alison Toplas and Clare Downing In the run up to Christmas you are invited to join others in taking time out to look forward in hope. Our day together will include online worship and short talks, with plenty of time for personal reflection […]
Advent Supplement for Children’s & Youth work
The nights are definitely drawing in and winter is in the air – a sure sign that Advent is just around the corner. Here is a special Advent supplement to share with you the resources which are available to you from the URC CYW team. We hope you find something of interest or […]
Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice Care Pastoral Support vacancies
For further details visit the website: Pastoral Support | Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice Care iRecruit Careers Portal (ciphr-irecruit.com)
Bishop Rodwell Chomba Farewell Service
Below is a screen shot of Bishop Chomba, his wife Gertrude and their younger son waiting to receive greetings from members of the Presbytery in the course of his Farewell Service as he prepares to complete his eight years as Presbytery Bishop. The service was live streamed from St Paul’s United Church of Zambia on […]
Good News Story from Andover URC
THE BIG SLEEP Ashley and Ryan have been raising money for a charity that provides shelter and accommodation for people that are vulnerable and homeless. We took part in an event that is called the Big Sleep, which was when you sleep on the floor in the streets, but due to Coronavirus (and us being […]
Children’s & Youth Nov newsletter
Greetings from the United Reformed Church Children’s and Youth Work Team. bi-monthly update of 2020 This month’s bimonthly is full of news and links to resources which we hope you will find useful and inspiring over the coming weeks of Advent and into the new year.
November Lockdown Guidelines
Using places of worship and community halls during the November lockdown in England The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) (No. 4) Regulations 2020 The regulations laid down in Parliament are at https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2020/1200/pdfs/uksi_20201200_en.pdf They are subject to amendment before the vote on November 4th, and if passed will come into force from midnight the same day. […]
Black History Month
Black History Month sees the launch of the URC’s ‘Legacies of Slavery’ webpage You are invited to explore how the legacies of slavery continue to affect life today. Resources can be found on the URC website at the following link: https://urc.org.uk/legacies-of-slavery Resources include bible studies, films, books, papers, prayers and theology covering the topics including […]
HOPE at Christmas
How might you share the good news of Jesus this Christmas? Might you be able to deliver a magazine to houses around the church – or have a box of them for people to help themselves to outside your church building. HOPE Together’s Christmas magazine is available for just 10p a copy. Click this link […]
JPIT Reset the Debt campaign
Reset the Debt is a major new campaign from the Baptist Union, Church of Scotland, Methodist Church, United Reformed Church and Church Action on Poverty, supported by other denominations and charities. A briefing for Church Leaders from the Joint Public Issues Team. Read more below: JPIT Reset the Debt Report Reset the Debt Church Leaders […]
URC October NewsUpdate
The October edition of NewsUpdate is now available at the following link: View the October News Update here
Youth Event on Saturday 14 November
Synod Youth Event for ages 14 – 25 years Saturday 14 November 2020 SHINE – exploring Christ’s Light in the Darkness on Zoom 10am (90 mins) 12.30pm (90 mins) 3pm (90 mins) 5pm (90 mins) & 7.30pm (90 mins) Join us for a full day of virtual fellowship as we enjoy games, crafts […]
Safeguarding Training Online in 2021
Next set of dates for Safeguarding Training Online. This is for all those working with children, young people and adults at risk. The training will be delivered via the Zoom online platform, across three sessions. Participants must attend all 3 sessions to complete the training and gain a certificate. Saturday mornings, 9.30am – 11am Part […]
Synod Papers available now – October 2020
Synod meets virtually on Zoom on Saturday 10th October 10am start – finishing by 16:00 Join the Zoom Meeting using: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82851442839?pwd=OFUxY1dFY3IxbUdGVW5pK3BnbStwQT09 Meeting ID: 828 5144 2839 Passcode: 463900 Further guidelines to using Zoom in the Synod Meeting The Synod Papers are available to download below in either pdf or Word format Please read […]
Young Christian Activists Launch Climate Justice Campaign
On 18th August 2020, 25 young Christians from all over the UK will launch their campaign for climate justice. The young adults, who range from 18-30 years old started the campaign through Christian Aid’s Prophetic Activists scheme. The campaign, which is called ‘Stop Fuelling the Fire’, focuses on encouraging the government to end the use […]
Your invitation to a new series of Christians on Ageing
Christians on Ageing is once again offering space and time for discussion on some important issues highlighted by the experience of the Churches over the last six months. These discussions are open to all and follow a successful series held in the summer months (see the reports after this invitation below). 22 September – Recruitment […]
September Area Gatherings
Church is different now, but what could we be doing now? What should we be doing in the future? If you want to have discussions with others, then why not attend our Synod gatherings? Not bound by geographical area, but by theme. Zoom in and join the discussion! Each evening will have a different angle […]
Children’s and Youth News update Sept 20
Welcome to the September 2020 update from your support team in Children’s and Youth Work normally found at URC Church House but currently on Zoom! September 2020 – CYW bimonthly update URC Youth Supplement Youth Assembly 2021 – Letter from URC Youth Moderator
Safeguarding Newsletter September 2020
It is with joy that the first safeguarding newsletter is launched. Safeguarding Newsletter – September 2020 The newsletter has been produced as a joint effort to update you on changes and recent developments in child protection and safeguarding adults. There is a section at the end of the newsletter which is specific to […]
Ministry Enquirers’ Day Sat 3 October
Ministry Enquirers’ Day Saturday 3rd October 2020 10am – 1pm, via Zoom What does the Lord require of YOU? Ministry Enquirers’ Day for anyone thinking about God’s call to Lay Preaching, Ministry of Word and Sacraments or Church Related Community Work. For full details contact Farrah Falomi-Carrer at ministries@urc.org.uk
Cinnamon Network Training Series
Cinnamon Training Series Further information and bookings: https://www.cinnamonnetwork.co.uk/cinnamon-training/ Race Diversity 1 and 2 – Thursday 17th September – 9.30am-3.00pm Empowering Volunteers – Thursday 1st October – 9.30am-2.00pm Build a Successful Fundraising Strategy – Thursday 15th October – 9.30am-1.00pm Explore Missional Listening – Thursday 29th October – 9.30am-2.00pm Building Effective Partnerships – Thursday 12th November – 9.30am-1.00pm Effective Leadership – Thursday 26th November – 9.30am-1.00pm […]
URC September NewsUpdate
The September edition of NewsUpdate is now available at the following link: View the September News Update here
Trialogue – an online live YouTube broadcast for 16-25 yr olds
Trialogue – a fortnightly panel discussion for young people! 3 Panelists, 3 Questions, 3 Values ‘Trialogue’ is aimed at 16 to 25 year olds, each session will explore a theme alongside a Bible passage, providing a spring board for further discussion and reflection. A member of the CYDO+ team will host three guest […]
Let’s Celebrate: children and young people in the URC
We would love everyone to hear about all that is going on among children and young people in the URC: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAOwv-oOzZM Please feel free to share the link as widely as possible!
Moderator recommended for re-appointment
The Assembly Review Group met on Wednesday 22nd July by video-conferencing and carefully considered review documents from Wessex Synod, a reflection by their Synod Moderator, the Revd Clare Downing, and references sought from people in the wider church who have worked with Clare during her current term. The Synod documents comprised a description of the […]
URC July/August NewsUpdate
The July/August edition of NewsUpdate is now available at the following link: View the July/August News Update here
July 2020 Mission Council Round-up
Read the round-up of July’s virtual Mission Council by visiting the URC webpage link below: Mission Council roundup
Digital discussions about Israel & Palestine
The United Reformed Church’s (URC) interfaith relations team has organised two General Assembly-linked webinars focusing on Israel and Occupied Palestine Territories. At the first, to be held on 14 July from 7-8.15pm, a panel will share their experiences of an URC educational visit to the region in 2019 via Zoom. Introduced by Derek Estill, former […]
Practical Information during Covid-19 and beyond
This page deals mainly with the practicalities we are faced with during the pandemic. For more pastoral support and ideas for worship, please see the post entitled Worship/Prayer Resources for during Covid-19 The URC will be updating advice to churches about Covid-19 (coronavirus) as and when new information is available. Please keep an eye […]
Worship/Prayer Resources for during Covid-19
Letter from Clare Downing re being church Telephone pastoral care guidance Wessex Synod March 2020 Wessex Synod have produced some basic guidelines on using video conferencing which we hope will be of help to you. Download them here: Video conference Guidelines URC Daily Devotions The Church of England has set up […]
Vacancy: Free Church Chaplaincy at Bournemouth University
Free Church Chaplaincy Management Committee For Higher Education In Bournemouth And Poole wish to appoint a Free Church Chaplain to work part time at Bournemouth University and Arts University Applications are invited from members of Free Churches For further details please contact Mark Priestley on 01202 895739 Closing date for applications Friday 10th July 2020 […]
Virtual Green Living Group
We are a virtual Green Living Group ‘meeting’ in Southampton to explore ways we can reduce our carbon footprint at an individual and household level. Most of us are members of Avenue St Andrew’s URC. We are using the Dorset Green Living Guide (greenliving.sustainabledorset.org) looking at food, energy, transport, waste, water and community. We are […]
Good News Story from Guildford URC
Guildford URC is unusual in having a resident Caretaker, Andrew Lee. Although COVID-19 forced cancellation of the many regular activities by the church and local community groups Andrew has kept the building active including recording components of Sunday services for our website http://www.guildfordurc.org.uk/category/virtual-service/ and supervising our collection for Guildford’s Salvation Army Food Bank. When the […]
How we can change the way our money is used in the current crises we face
The current Coronavirus pandemic has awakened us to the frailty of our accepted social and economic norms. Prior to it, though, the accelerating global warming crisis should have alerted us to the danger of continuing in the way to which we have become accustomed in ‘developed’ countries, especially over the last 40 years. Our Wessex […]
Prayers for use by the Churches of Wessex Synod
Below are 2 Prayers – 1 for Zambia – 1 for during this season of pandemic To help our congregations lift up global concerns during this pandemic season Provided by the World Church Group Prayers for Zambia by Nigel Appleton Gracious God, We give thanks for the resilience and faith of our sisters and […]
Stepwise – online group starting soon
An online group for the Stepwise Faith Filled Life Stream will be starting soon. Not limited by geography this group will follow the same content of the stream, so participants will have the same opportunity for deepening their discipleship, just using a different medium for group interaction. The stream facilitators will be […]
Black Lives Matter – a reflection from Enala Bhebhe
Why should they experience brutality in the hands of the police? Why should they experience injustice from the justice system? Why experience inequality and racism in the classroom and in all work settings? Why are they affected the most in the face of Covid-19 pandemic? Is it by choice to be born black? Yes, there […]
URC update on private prayer in church buildings
Government announcements over the weekend referred to the opening of places of worship starting from 15th June. Whilst it was clear from the statement that this was about private prayer rather than public worship, some media headlines did not reflect the limits of the provisions, and this has led to some confusion. In response to […]
Replay Synod worship for Pentecost
The Pentecost service is now available to view on YouTube at the following link: https://youtu.be/zYvzTQMzTfA
Wessex Synod Clerk (New Post)
This post is 18 hours per week Salary: £13,800 (equivalent to 50% of ministerial stipend) Applications from elders, members, retired ministers and non-stipendiary ministers are all welcome. The role of Synod Clerk in the Wessex Synod has six principal elements: To support the life and work of the Synod. To work with the Synod Moderator, […]
Cancellation of General Assembly 2020
The United Reformed Church (URC) has announced the cancellation of its 2020 General Assembly, the first time the meeting has been cancelled since the URC was founded in 1972. Inductions and some business of the General Assembly will, however, be carried out online. The ongoing threat of coronavirus and the health and safety of General […]
URC May NewsUpdate
The May edition of NewsUpdate is now available at the following link: View the May News Update here
Supporting Christian Aid during Lockdown – an Invitation
Supporting Christian Aid during Lockdown United Reformed Church Online Consultation with John Plant I would like to invite you to join with me on ZOOM on Thursday 7th May at 14h00. I will host an online consultation with Christian Aid’s John Plant. Please note there are limited spaces available. Invitation to ZOOM consultation: JOIN US […]
URC April NewsUpdate
The April edition of NewsUpdate is now available at the following link: View the April News Update here
New page for Resources children & youth
Wessex Synod has a new page for children’s and youth work resources. Check out the new page here.
Holy Week Prayer Stations
Revd Phil Nevard, Minister in South Western Synod has produced this useful document: Holy Week prayer stations
Germinate: Arthur Rank Centre resources
There is a section of resources about Covid 19 under the title Together apart https://arthurrankcentre.org.uk/together-apart/ There are some Holy Week resources https://arthurrankcentre.org.uk/together-apart/together-apart-worship-resources/ In partnership with our national church colleagues and fellow rural mission and ministry organisations we are producing a weekly email of resources and ideas https://arthurrankcentre.org.uk/together-apart/together-apart-weekly-reflections/ you can sign up here for the newsletter. […]
Virtual Communion resource
Sharing Communion Over the Easter period, communion is usually celebrated in our churches. The Faith and Order Committee of the URC has prepared a paper which gives guidance on the potential for sharing communion as a part of ‘virtual’ services during this period when we cannot meet together. You can find it at: Virtual Communion (please […]
Light a candle of hope: A national call to prayer
Presidents of Churches Together in England have issued a call to prayer in the light of the Coronavirus pandemic. This is for all churches and people of prayer to join on Sunday 22nd March, Mothering Sunday. This Mothering Sunday, 22nd March, we are calling all churches to a National Day of Prayer […]
Worship Live streams
Church House have a comphrehensive list of churches offering live streamed services, sermons as podcasts, recorded services on YouTube, audio files of services and sermons and other resources has now been published. https://urc.org.uk/latest-news/3385-coronavirus-worshipping-digitally
URC March NewsUpdate
The March edition of NewsUpdate is now available at the following link: View the March News Update here
URC Guidance on Covid-19 (Coronavirus)
The URC has issued guidance to churches and it is available to read at the following link: https://urc.org.uk/latest-news/3365-urc-issues-coronavirus-advice-to-its-churches.html
CANCELLED – Synod Papers available now – March 2020
This meeting has now been cancelled Letter from the Moderator and Synod Clerk regarding cancellation Synod meets on Saturday 14th March at United Church Winchester 10 for 10:30 start – finishing by 16:30 The Synod Papers are available to download below in either pdf or Word format (a printed copy will be available to […]
URC February NewsUpdate
The February edition of NewsUpdate is now available at the following link: View the February News Update here
Rural Ministry Course – 11-13 February
Germinate – Arthur Rank Centre OUR HIGHLY-REGARDED RURAL MINISTRY COURSE IS BACK! Tuesday 11 – Thursday 13 February 2020 The Rural Ministry Course is designed for lay and ordained church leaders across the denominations entering a rural appointment for the first time, and those already in rural ministry who feel the need for a ‘refresher’. The three-day residential […]
Could you be our next Synod Clerk?
The Synod Clerk plays a vital role in the life of our Synod, working closely with the Moderator and the Synod Executive to hold together the varied strands of the Synod’s work. We are looking for someone to work alongside Sue Brown from next March, to take over fully as the new Synod Clerk from […]
JPIT December Newsletter
The latest JPIT newsletter is available by following this link: https://jointpublicissues-news.org.uk/1MV9-6MJHI-DE97YVNL81/cr.aspx
URC December/January NewsUpdate
The December/January edition of NewsUpdate is now available at the following link: https://urc-news.org.uk/2JB1-1IFQQ-5B2VWOLV35/cr.aspx
Could you be our next Synod Treasurer?
Peter Stevenson will be coming to the end of his term of office as Synod Treasurer in March 2020, so the Synod is looking for a new Treasurer. We would be pleased to receive nominations and expressions of interest for this role. The job description can be found downloaded here: Synod Treasurer role description Peter […]
URC November NewsUpdate
The November edition of NewsUpdate is now available at the following link: http://C:\Users\dwalker\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\INetCache\Content.Outlook\BS0QSHC7\email.mht
JPIT November Newsletter
The latest JPIT newsletter is available by following this link: https://jointpublicissues-news.org.uk/1MV9-6L9TN-DE97YVNL81/cr.aspx
November 2019 Mission Council Highlights
Revd Graham Hoslett has produced a single page synopsis of the meeting of Mission Council held on 15-17 November 2019.
Mission Shaped Church on Sat 28 March 2020
Saturday 28 March 2020 Fleet URC 10.30am – 3.30pm A day of exploration with guest speaker: Linda Rayner Being a mission-shaped church in 21st century Britain raises many important questions. This will be a dynamic day of conversation and interaction, of mutual support and valuable networking. Learning to listen to our communities in order […]
Join the Wessex Trust Finance Team
Join our Finance Team The Wessex Trust company has 2 openings for well-motivated, professionally-minded people who care about delivering great service. We have a vision for future finance which we believe is exciting and creative. These are part-time posts, fully remunerated, in an attractive office, and they carry some first-class benefits. Help us to evolve […]
Area Gatherings – September 2019
6.30pm for a 7pm start – finished by 9.15pm at the latest We will be looking at 2 very different aspects of “Using Resources well” Finding Resources: Learn more about how to raise funds and access grants for your church projects Using Resources wisely: How can we and our churches work towards zero […]
Closing Church’s fixtures and fittings available
CLOSURE OF FREEMANTLE URC – Fixtures, fittings and furnishings Sunday 8th September 2019 will be the final Service at Freemantle URC. Tuesday 17th September 2019 will be an Open Day when there is an opportunity for representatives from all URC churches to view available items. Opening Times will be: 1pm to 4pm, and 7pm to […]
South East Asia Floods Appeal
18 July 2019 Churches urged to help Christian Aid tackle crisis and build resilience as floods devastate parts of South Asia Christian Aid is inviting churches across the south west to support an appeal offering a lifeline to those impacted by torrential rain, floods and landslides that have displaced millions of people across India, Bangladesh […]
Creation Time/Season of Creation
Creation Time or Season of Creation approaches. Are you and your churches ready for the five Sunday which lie between 1st of September and 4th of October 2019. This year they are all in the 5-Sunday month of September. Our JPIT Team has recently sent round an email promoting the website seasonofcreation.org The theme they […]
Revd Ana Gobledale’s Zambian journey
Ana, as recipient of the Short Term Study Grant, will be in Zambia 17 July – 1 October. Her time will be split between the Presbytery of Lusaka and the United Church of Zambia University in Kitwe. While guest of Bishop Choma, she will be meeting with various church groups. While at the University, she […]
Association of Church Editors award to Salisbury URC
The 2019 Annual General Meeting of the Association for Church Editors presented Hugh Abel, long-time Magazine Editor for Salisbury United Reformed Church, with a Certificate for Achievement (for an A5 magazine using colour). Hugh travelled to London to receive the Church Magazine Award at the AGM held at Central Hall, Westminster, on 22 June. Hugh, […]
Christians on Ageing Conference 25/09/19
A conference for all who are interested in issues of ageing with a Christian faith, within the context of churches in the UK today. Come and ask your questions! Come and share your ideas! We might find some answers. Full details here
United Service hosted by Andover URC
We may be a small church (average attendance 12-15), but when Andover Churches Together was looking for a host for a community service, our representative suggested we take a turn. Her enthusiasm became contagious. ‘Serving the World’ became the theme to mark the end of Christian Aid Week and we invited a Christian Aid speaker. Enlisting […]
May 2019 Mission Council Highlights
Revd Graham Hoslett has produced a single page synopsis of the meeting of Mission Council held on 13-15 May 2019.
Nicholson Gardens, Gosport
The Nicholson Gardens are a beautifully secluded, secure and peaceful place within the heart of Gosport. Managed by members of Gosport URC St Columba, they can be found between Spring Garden Lane and Carlton Road, (accessible from Carlton Road). Further information, including photos, travel directions and contact details for booking enquiries.
Pulpit Supply Fees – did you know…
You may not be aware that there are certain situations in which a church can claim re-imbursement of Pulpit Supply expenses from Church House. These expenses can be claimed when a Minister is unable to work for one of the following reasons: ill-health which is certified; parental leave; Jury Service; a sabbatical term […]
Stepwise is coming! What is Stepwise?
Stepwise is being rolled out in Wessex Synod. What is Stepwise? Stepwise is the new intergenerational United Reformed Church discipleship development programme. It is for people of all ages and backgrounds. Stepwise is an integral part of Walking the Way – living the life of Jesus today, the United Reformed Church’s focus on whole-life […]
SEEFF Statement on NZ Double Mosque Terror Attacks
We deplore the violent and senseless terror attacks, which occurred at the Al Noor and Linwood mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who through this horrific event have lost loved ones, and also with those who are in injured. It is more important than ever that we, as […]
Example Safeguarding Policy for Local Churches in Wessex Synod
Example Safeguarding Policy for Local Churches in Wessex Synod.
Appreciative Inquiry for Rural Churches
An introduction to using Appreciative Inquiry in rural church and community settings Monday 11th & Tuesday 12th March 2019 Rural Innovation Centre, Avenue H, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, CV8 2LG Full details available here
BREXIT – The aftermath
2nd February 2019 This weekend’s Church and Society Group meeting was unanimous in its concern over the extent and extremity of division in our country at the moment. Whatever does or doesn’t happen on March 29th, a very large proportion of the population is going to be somewhere between very disappointed and angry and there […]
Bread of Life – Springs Dance Company production
Bread of Life – A deeply moving and captivating performance for your church for Lent and Easter 2019. Springs Dance Company is delighted to be returning with its much sought after and highly praised production Bread of Life, for churches, cathedrals, festivals and schools. A reflection on the last supper, Bread of Life celebrates the meal of bread and wine with […]
Life, Death and Everything – Reading Party 2019
This year’s reading party is at Bishop Woodford House in the delightful old Cathedral town of Ely, 15 miles from Cambridge and close to the Fens. As always, the programme gives time to enjoy as well as to relax. The conference is from Monday September 9th-Thursday 12th and costs £255 ensuite. There are a small […]
Area Gatherings – February 2019
6.30pm for a 7pm start – finished by 9.15pm at the latest Come and meet the new Synod Safeguarding Officer, Sharon Barr who will be leading a session on Safeaguarding. The Synod CYDO’s will lead an interactive workshop exploring what each local church is hoping to develop with children, young people and all […]
Christmas Tree Festival 2018 – Bridport
Once again the United Church in Bridport was transformed by over 60 Christmas Trees each decorated by a local community group or charity and filling every available inch with lights, images and messages galore. Over 7,000 folk come through the doors during the 12 days of the festival and over £2,000 raised by the charities […]
Journey to the Stable
Every year, the United Church Dorchester transforms itself into an interactive, welcoming space during Advent when several hundred folk come through the front door (for the occasion turned into Stable Doors!) to explore the Christmas story in an innovative way. Six ’Stations’ are set up for folk to explore, consider and think about the stages […]
Re:Generate: Rural Ministries Day Conference 23/03/19
At: Winchester Baptist Church, Winchester, Hampshire Perhaps now more than ever before, our country needs the church at its best. Unfortunately, sometimes churches are not serving as effectively as they could. A church split, a failed leader, changing economics, stretched resources or an ageing congregation; there are many reasons for rural churches to be struggling […]
Development and Support Events in 2019
Development and Support Calendar of Events 2019 Bridge Builders Course – further information and dates on the poster. Saturday 23 February 2019 – Lay Presidency at the Sacraments Saturday 23 March 2019 – Lay Preachers’ Gathering Saturday 13 April 2019 – Elders’ Conference Saturday 19 October 2019 – Church Secretaries’ Day Saturday 16 […]
Salisbury Angel Festival at Salisbury URC
We had a ‘heavenly’ second annual Angel Festival! With amazing portrayals of angels created by churches, schools and community groups, delicious refreshments and entertainment. http://salisburyurc.co.uk/angel-festival/ Salisbury URC held its second ‘annual’ Angel Festival in October. Angels of all shapes, sizes and interpretations filled the sanctuary to the rafters (literally!) More than 20 schools, churches, community […]
Salisbury URC – Transgender Remembrance Service
Something new is happening at Salisbury United Reformed Church! Transgender Remembrance Service held About 40 people gathered from as far away as Woking and Devon for a thoughtful, reflective service on Sunday 18 November to commemorate Transgender Day of Remembrance (20 November). Being the only service of its kind in the southeast of England, much […]
Christmas Tree Festival at West Moors
St Martin’s United Reformed Church, 2 Moorlands Road, West Moors, Dorset, BH22 0JW A warm welcome always awaits you at St Martin’s, the ‘little church with the big heart’ News Release West Moors Christmas Tree Festival raises £660 for charity 30 beautifully decorated and illuminated trees lit up St Martin’s United Reformed Church in […]
November 2018 Mission Council Highlights
Our Synod Clerk, Sue Brown has produced a single page synopsis of the meeting of Mission Council held on 16-18 November 2018
Christian Aid resources for Advent & Christmas
“Will you be a Peacemaker?” Christian Aid’s service resources for Advent and Christmas are inspired by the relentless work of Bishop Paride Taban from South Sudan. In his eighties now, he starts every day by praying 28 words for peace. They also tell the story of Diana, a psychologist in Lebanon who works with refugee […]
Christmas Hope magazine 2018
The latest news is now available from HOPE by clicking here The latest edition of Christmas HOPE is now available to purchase here
Evangelical Church of the Palatinate Advent liturgy
A resource for an advent service written by Christians in southern Germany for ecumenical services. Download here
World Council of Churches – Programme Executive for Ecumenical Relations
JOB TITLE: Programme Executive for Ecumenical Relations DUTY STATION: Geneva STARTING DATE: 1 March 2019 CONTRACT DURATION: 4 years Further details here
God is with us: fresh responses to the good news
Looking to be challenged and inspired this autumn? Well, now you can be – for a mere £7! God is with us: fresh responses to the good news is an edited collection of fifty of Reform’s ‘Chapter and verse’ is the latest book to be published by the URC and a valuable addition to any […]
Advent Study based on ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’
Revd Michael Whitfield, a retired minister in the Wessex Synod, has produced a study based on the Rejoice & Sing version of the carol ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’. He would like to make the pack available to anyone who would find it a useful resource. The pack consists of: Weekly leaders notes A booklet […]
British/German remembrance resources available now
A unique resource available as a downloadable pdf. For over 60 years the URC has had a Covenant of Pulpit and Table Fellowship with the Protestant Churches in the Palatinate region of Germany, the ‘Evangelische Kirche der Pfalz’. Drawing on this partnership for the 100 years commemoration of the 1918 Armistice, the URC have been […]
Certificate of Eligibility
The opportunity for ministers of other churches to seek a Certificate of Eligibility and come on to the roll of United Reformed Churches is currently open. Applications are welcome from ministers who are members of churches that are either a member of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland, the Council for World Mission or the […]
STEPWISE facilitator role description
We are looking for people who can catch a vision of the church of the future and help facilitate those who are going to be part of leading us forward towards that vision. We are not looking for teachers, but people who can facilitate others’ learning. If this sounds like you, please get in touch. […]
Free to Believe – National Conference
For information and booking download the form: FTB conference Nov 2018 booking form – Radical Faith
Remembrance 100 – 100 days of peace and hope
Recently Buckingham Palace recognised the significance of a National Day of Prayer, called by King George V one hundred years ago on 4 August 1918. The aim was to bring the nation together in prayers for peace. One hundred days later, the Great War ended. The United Reformed Church has been working with the organisation HOPE […]
TRIO resource pack available to loan
TRIO is a financial stewardship programme for churches which has proven success in a wide variety of demographic settings in encouraging generosity in giving. A TRIO campaign encourages people to consider their financial giving to the church. …The Responsibility Is Ours There are two copies of the TRIO pack available to loan from the Synod […]
ACAT Foundation Training Course for Church Treasurers
Saturday 29th September 2018 – 9:30-4:00 Seaford Baptist Church cost (including a buffet lunch) £45 Full details here
Rural Ministries Regional Conference
Our world has radically changed; we live in a time where there is a multiplicity of choices, a time when the moral codes and ethics are less than clear. It is a time of hurry and rush; a time when we seemingly know our neighbours less well, and yet conversely, we are more globally aware […]
Daily Devotions – poster for your noticeboard
A poster is available here for you to print and put on your noticeboard, or into your church magazine.
Windrush Worship Resources and video available now
Worship resources are available now which can be used to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the initial arrival of the SS Empire Windrush and is an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of the pioneering Windrush generation. Download pdf here ‘Longing to Belong’ short film is available here: https://youtu.be/B6ZO5UOSJN4 In honour of 70 years of the arrival […]
Ministers’ Gathering 2018 – Resources available
A sheet with links to various resources from the Ministers’ Gathering is avaialable below:
Spirit of Windrush: contributions to Multicultural Britain – a service of thanksgiving
From Churches Together in England: As you will know, we are holding a national event to mark the 70th anniversary of the landing of the Empire Windrush at Tilbury Docks on 22 June 1948 carrying over 500 passengers, and which is recognised as the start of the Windrush era. ‘Spirit of Windrush: contributions to Multicultural Britain […]
March 2018 Mission Council Highlights
Revd Graham Hoslett has produced a single page synopsis of the meeting of Mission Council held on 19-21 March 2018
GDPR – Presentation given at March Synod
Available to download is the presentation shown at the March Synod meeting. Visit the URC website for further guidance
Introducing Stepwise
Find out more about Stepwise, the United Reformed Church’s intergenerational discipleship programme. Visit their page here
SS Windrush Celebration – Can you help?
A message from Michael Jagessar URC Global & Intercultural Ministries (Mission) Given our ‘multi-cultural church, intercultural habit’ commitment, the United Reformed Church has an opportunity this year to celebrate the arrival of a generation who inspired a cultural change that has enriched our nation. In June 2018 it will be the 70th anniversary […]
Westminster College supporting Walking the Way
Information about events and courses provided by Westminster College supporting “Walking the Way” available here
Advent Devotions 2017 Star of wonder
Advent Devotions 2017 Star of wonder, Star of night; Star with Royal Beauty bright. written by Revd Ruth Dillon Daily Devotions. This will print as a booklet (select your print settings – landscape, double-sided, flip on short edge). Advent Liturgy.
More photos from Fleet URC
Durning the week, Paddington spent time with knit and natter and the coffee morning at Fleet URC.
Paddington’s Pilgrimmage: The Route
Paddington’s Pilrimage – The Route Find out when Paddington will be coming to your church. Paddington’s route – North Any problems or questions about the route in the North, please contact Phil Ray. Email Phil. Paddington’s route – South Any problems or questions about the route in the South, please contact Ruth White. […]
Social Isolation
Social isolation is a major and increasing problem in the vast majority of the communities surrounding our church buildings. As well as seeking to host or run events in our buildings many are also seeking help for reaching out to the housebound around us. LINKING LIVES is a Christian Charity offering training and support for […]
Paddington at Iford URC
At Iford URC, Paddington had tea and biscuits, chaired the church meeting, the children made him a book mark for his journal, and wrote him a letter.
Paddington at Fleet URC
At Fleet URC, Paddington was baptised, joined choir practice and served refreshments.
November 2017 Mission Council highlights
Revd Graham Hoslett has produced a single page synopsis of the meeting of Mission Council held on 7-9 November 2017.
Looking after one another – The safety and security of our faith communities
A leaflet has been produced by the Inter Faith Network. Even though you are not in London, much of the information is still relevant. Take a look
Developing a dementia-friendly church A practical guide
A guide has been produced by Livability.org.uk and can be downloaded from their website here
Introducing Discipling Presence
A Discipling Presence flyer Promotional clip of a new resource for rural churches which has been produced jointly by the URC and the Methodist Church.
Hiring Church Premises – FAQs
We have received various questions regarding the hiring documents we sent out recently so have produced a document with the most frequently asked questions, which can be downloaded here. This will be updated from time to time with new questions we are asked.
Giving thanks for the Windermere Centre
Details of the thanksgiving service for the life of the Windermere Centre, and a prayer of thanksgiving for the life of the Centre, have now been released:The thanksgiving service will be held on Saturday 15 July 2017 at 3pm Carver Uniting Church, in Windermere; the Revd Tony Burnham will preach. We are encouraging Individuals and churches to […]
Gospel Street – Riding Lights Theatre production
Riding Lights Theatre Company are on tour this Autumn with: “Gospel Street” This may be something your church might be interested in as an outreach event for their congregations and communities. The tour marks the beginning of our 40th year with a radical re-telling of the good news. Gospel Street asks what would the stories […]
Free Church Group Workshop on End of Life Care
Free Church Group Workshop on End of Life Care 17th July 2017 11am – 3.30pm Free Churches House, 27 Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9HH Come and join the conversation about Palliative Care and Dying matters, and see how to strengthen and develop this important ministry in your church and local community. The day will […]
Creation Care: Theology, Spirituality and Mission
Why, as Christians, do we care about creation? How do we ground creation care in our spiritual life? And how does creation care fit as part of our churches’ wider mission? This event includes: Short presentations of different theological perspectives on creation care. An introduction (Oxford) or practical workshops (Reading) exploring ways of prayer, […]
New Policy Guidelines for Lay Presidency authorisations
Please download and read the letter about what we want each church to do in order to have people authorised to preside at the Sacraments.
Understanding Spiritual Abuse in the Christian Community
Understanding Spiritual Abuse in the Christian Community (UK). Could you spare 10 minutes of your time to help develop the understanding of spiritual abuse within the Christian community in the UK? Spiritual abuse happens. However, little is known about the full extent of this type of abuse within the church and wider christian community, and […]
URC Past Case Review – an update
The United Reformed Church Past Case Review phase two is an open invitation for anyone to raise concerns about the behavior or conduct of anyone affiliated with the United Reformed Church since its formation in 1972. The following resources regarding the Past Case Review are available via the main URC website: PCR Poster PCR Church […]
Opportunity for Churches – reaching the most unreached
Opportunity for Churches: reaching the most unreached people 90% – 95% of the world’s disabled people die without ever hearing the Gospel, according to the Lausanne Committee for World Evangelization. Disabled people are one of the world’s most unreached people groups. Christian disability charity Through the Roof would like to partner with churches to change […]
Mission Projects – Things that work
Recently, a group of people got together to tell their stories from around the country. They were about churches ‘serious about mission’ who had stepped out in faith and made a difference in their community. These stories are now on the internet to inspire and encourage. Do please have a look.
United Church of Zambia
United Church of Zambia United Church of Zambia links The Council for World Mission (CWM) has encouraged every Synod to develop a link with a church in another country as part of its ‘Belonging to the World Church’ Programme. Wessex Synod had already made links with UCZ when Revd Derek Wales was the Synod Moderator […]
New CDM Regulations
NEW Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015) Is your church currently involved with any type of construction works, or alterations? Are you planning to commence any of these works? Are you currently in discussion with contractors no matter how small the contract is? Do you have works carried out […]
Registering Local Church Buildings
Registering Local Church Buildings for the Marriage of Same-Sex Couples The following applies in England and Wales, but not in other jurisdictions where the URC serves. Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man do not at present allow the marriage of same-sex couples. Scots law does not require the registration of buildings for marriage services. […]
LPW Roof Repair Fund
0
A total of 502 places of worship will receive between £10,000 to £100,000 to meet the costs of urgent repairs to roofs and rainwater disposal systems in the first round of the Listed Places of Worship Roof Repair Fund. Money is also being provided for structural investigations, specialist reports and bat surveys. A full list […]
Smoke and CO Alarms
Smoke and CO Alarms to be a Legal Requirement for Rental Properties Under new measures announced, all landlords will be required by law to install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms (CO) in their properties from October 2015. The move is part of a wider government push to ensure sufficient measures are in place to protect […]