New To Church?
"I want to come to church but I don't know what to expect or if I will be welcomed"
It’s natural to feel a little nervous visiting a church for the first time! At St. Hilary Church, we offer a warm and welcoming community where everyone is accepted just as they are. Whether you’re exploring faith, returning after a while, or simply curious, you’ll find a place to feel comfortable and supported. Our services combine traditional worship with a friendly, inclusive atmosphere, creating space for reflection, prayer, and connection. Beyond Sunday services, there are groups, events, and activities for all ages, helping you meet people, make friends, and feel part of the church family from the very start.
What Do Our Congregation Say...
“I had been looking for a church like St Hilary for a long time, somewhere with the beauty and solemnity of a catholic Church alongside a welcoming and inclusive group of friendly people. I now enjoy being a member of the serving team, which is a wonderful experience, being able to assist during the service. As a composer and musician the atmosphere of this special church is a source of inspiration for my creativity.” Sue Aston
"I really appreciate how inclusive and welcoming St. Hilary Church is — it’s such a beautiful place that’s been so accommodating to me as a younger person and a student. It feels so different from the challenging experiences I had growing up in a church school. Father Jeff is incredibly kind, and having a space and community that genuinely supports the LGBTQ+ community is so special. Here, I feel free to be myself and to make new friends" Ellie Jane
"St. Hilary Church has been such a supportive and understanding community for me. As someone who has struggled with insecurities, the kindness and pastoral care here have made such a difference. Getting involved in church life has helped me build confidence and connect with others in a meaningful way. Father Jeff and the whole community create a space where everyone is valued and accepted. I finally feel like I’ve found my tribe — a place where I can grow in faith, and share life with people who truly care" Rosie Priest
What happens when I arrive at church?
The first people you’ll likely meet at St. Hilary Church are our welcoming team. They’ll give you an Order of Service booklet to help you follow along throughout the service.
After that, you have a few options. If you’ve come with a friend or someone from the congregation, you’re welcome to sit with them. If you’ve come on your own, you can choose any seat you like—none are reserved. Or, if you’d prefer some company, one of our friendly team members will be happy to sit with you through the service.
Whatever you choose, know that we’re here for you and want you to feel completely at home.
Do you still feel unsure? Check out the FAQ list below or why not get in touch? We are here to help and to support you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. I am unsure if I believe in God, can I still come to church?
Absolutely—you are very welcome to come, no matter where you are in your beliefs.
At St. Hilary Church, we believe church is a place for everyone, including those who are exploring faith, asking questions, or unsure what they believe. You don’t need to have it all figured out to be part of our community.
You’re free to simply come, listen, and take things at your own pace. Many people have started their faith journey with curiosity or uncertainty.
Q. I do not know anyone at church, what can I do to make me feel at ease?
That’s completely okay—you’re not alone in feeling that way.
Many people visit St. Hilary Church for the first time without knowing anyone, and we do our best to make everyone feel at home right away. When you arrive, our welcoming team will greet you, answer any questions, and help you find your way around.
You can either contact us before your first visit or if you’d like, one of our team members can sit with you during the service so you don’t feel on your own. After the service, you’re warmly invited to stay for a chat over tea or coffee—it’s a great way to meet people and get to know our community at your own pace. Whether you come quietly to observe or join in right away, you’ll be surrounded by people who are glad you’re here.
Q. I’ve not been Christened can I still go to Church?
Yes of course!. More and more adults and young people are finding that they want to come to Church but because they haven’t been christened as a child they think they will not be welcomed. This is completely untrue because everyone is welcomed at St Hilary.
Q. I identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, would I be welcome at church?
Yes—absolutely. You are welcome here.
At St. Hilary Church, we believe every person is made in the image of God and is deeply loved by God. We welcome and affirm all people, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community.
Our church family strives to be a place where everyone can feel safe, valued, and included—no matter who you are, where you come from, or how you identify. You don’t have to change who you are to belong here. We’re here to walk with you in faith, community, and love.
Q. I have hidden disabilities, how would I be supported at church?
At St. Hilary Church, we understand that not all disabilities are visible, and we want to do our best to meet your individual needs. If you have a hidden disability, please know that our welcome team and clergy are here to help in any way we can—whether that means finding a quieter space, offering assistance during the service, or simply understanding that you might need a bit of extra time or space.
If you’d like, you can speak to a member of our welcome team when you arrive, or contact us beforehand so we can make any arrangements to help your visit go smoothly. Whatever your needs, we’re here to support you and make sure you feel included and at ease.
Q. I am in a wheelchair, is the church accessible?
Yes! St. Hilary Church has accessible access and plenty of wheelchair-accessible space inside. If you have any concerns or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team—we’ll be more than happy to help.
During Communion, you’re welcome to come up to the altar, or if you prefer, the Priest can come over to you.
Q. Can I bring my child to church with me?
Yes, absolutely—children are always welcome at St. Hilary Church!
We love having children as part of our church family. Whether your child is a baby, toddler, or older, they are an important part of our community and are welcome to join in the service.
If you’re worried about noise or restlessness—don’t be! We understand that children make sounds and move around, and that’s perfectly okay. If you prefer, we also have a children’s area where little ones can play or take part in age-appropriate activities during the service.
Our friendly team is always happy to help you find what works best for you and your child so you can both feel comfortable and at ease.
Q. Do I have to be a Christian to come to St Hilary Church?
Not at all! In fact, everyone is welcome, whether you have a strong faith, are just beginning to explore, or aren’t sure what you believe. You don’t need to know all the prayers or have any background in church life—just come as you are.
Many people visit simply to learn more, find a sense of peace, or connect with community. Wherever you are on your journey, we’re glad to have you with us and hope you’ll feel comfortable and at home here.
Q. Do you have to dress up to attend your worship service?
No! Dressing up is not a requirement to worship or attend services with us at St Hilary. Some do wear their “Sunday best” but you’re also likely to see someone in a casual T shirt, or even jeans. We believe the most important part about our services and events is being comfortable.
Q. What is a sung or said Eucharist?
The Eucharist, also called Holy Communion, means "thanksgiving" in Greek, and it is when we come together to share bread and wine together.
The bread represents Jesus’ body, and the wine represents his blood, and we believe that Jesus is with us in a special way.
The service is a time to pause, reflect, and feel connected—not just to God, but to the whole church family. Everyone is welcome to be part of it, whether you’re new to church or have been coming for years.
Q. Can a visitor take Holy Communion?
Yes! At St Hilary, everyone is welcome to take communion, provided they understand its significance.
Q. Are dogs allowed?
Yes—well-behaved dogs are welcome at St. Hilary Church!
We ask that your dog is calm, friendly, and on a lead at all times, while on church grounds. This helps ensure that everyone—both people and pets—can enjoy a safe and welcoming environment.
For certain services or events, it’s always a good idea to check with our team ahead of time, just to make sure it’s a good fit for your dog and the occasion.
Q. Where do I sit? Do people have regular seats?
At ST Hilary Church we do not have reserved seats. You can sit where ever you feel comfy.
Q. Do you have toilet facilities?
Yes we do, we have toilet facilities in the building adjacent to the church building.
Q. Do you have parking?
Yes we do. We have parking at the front of the church and also available in the neighbouring farmyard. Follow sign posts for parking on special occasions.
Q. Do you have heating at the church?
Yes, heating at St Hilary is viewed as crucial to ensure everyone is warm and comfy. During services and events heating is on during colder months.
Why not get in touch or come along to our next service?
We meet for worship on Sunday mornings at 9.30am, Wednesday mornings at 10am and for various other services. Do check out our church calendar to find out more about what’s on. We look forward to seeing you soon!