We are a community of Christians seeking to serve and love those around us. We are part of the Colchester Town Centre Parish, and our building is at the top of North Hill (where it meets the High Street). Our congregation is made up of people of various ages and stages, some of whom live in the parish and many of whom come from further afield.
Of course, things are all a bit unusual at the moment.
We have moved a significant amount of our church life online (via Facebook, WhatsApp and Zoom). There are many in our congregation willing to help others access these, so please let Mark know (572641) if you could do with assistance in getting online. For those unable to access these, we are doing our best to keep in touch by phone and letter.
Practical help is now being co-ordinated by Bernice Watts and Morvern Cox. If you can offer help, and especially if you need help, they can be contacted by email on [email protected] or 01206 866630.
Public worship remains suspended across the Church of England, although funerals can be taken at a graveside.
The church building is now completely closed, and it is imperative that no-one enters the building.
The Annual Church Meetings are postponed, and it is hoped they can be rearranged for the autumn.
Dan Watts and Wendy Whitfield continue as Churchwardens until elections can be held later in the year.
*** ONLINE OPPORTUNITIES ***
No one is pretending that online contact is as good as face-to-face fellowship. But in this time of social isolation, it may be that online opportunities are better than nothing. Here are a few to be aware of:
‘Worship with the Wallaces’. On Sundays, starting just before 11am, on Facebook via Mark’s @towncentrevicar page.
Sunday Morning Bible Talk. Starting on 19th April, soon after ‘Worship with the Wallaces’ finishes, an opportunity to discuss a sermon from Mark via Zoom. So, after WwtWs, make yourself a coffee, log in, listen, discuss and pray — for about 45 minutes. See the WhatsApp page, or email Mark directly, for the log-in details.
‘Rock Solid Online’. This starts up again this weekend via Zoom. See the WhatsApp page, or email Mark directly, for the log-in details for each meeting.
Morning Prayer. On Mark’s Facebook page (live at 8am, or any time afterwards).
WhatsApp. There is a St Peter’s Church WhatsApp group, which we are using for prayer and encouragement. If you would like to join the 45 (at time of writing) already involved, please send a text to Mark’s mobile on 07772 615378.
‘The Course of your Life’ (via Zoom, starting Monday 20th April at 7:30pm).
NB Facebook opportunities can normally be viewed by those without a Facebook account, a short while after they finish.
Whether you’re visiting or have recently moved to the area, whatever your age or background – we would be delighted to welcome you!
Looking for information about our redevelopment? Click here. You can also follow us on Twitter to hear the latest updates.
SAFEGUARDING. St Peter’s is committed to safeguarding children, young people, victims and perpetrators of domestic abuse, and vulnerable adults. The PCC has adopted the Church of England’s policies and best practice on safeguarding, which may be found here — https://www.churchofengland.org/more/safeguarding
Our Parish Safeguarding Officer is Mrs Anne Kavanagh, who may be contacted through the Parish Office or via the contact details displayed immediately inside the West Door of the church.
