The Benefice of Hampsthwaite with Felliscliffe, Killinghall and Birstwith brings together four village churches, each with its own character, history and gifts. What unites us is a shared desire to worship God, serve our communities, and offer places of welcome, prayer and hope.
We are rural, rooted, and quietly vibrant. A benefice shaped by village life, local relationships, and the rhythm of worship across our four churches.

Our four churches
Each church contributes something unique to our shared life:

• Hampsthwaite — a welcoming village church with deep historical roots and a lively community.
• Birstwith — a warm, friendly church at the heart of village life, open daily for prayer.
• Killinghall — a historic parish church serving a growing and diverse community.
• Felliscliffe (Chapel of Ease) — a simple, peaceful rural chapel offering stillness and tradition.
  Together, they form a benefice that is both diverse and deeply connected.

How we worship
Our pattern of worship reflects the life of our villages and the gifts of our congregations. Across the benefice you’ll find:

• Holy Communion
• All Age services
• Seasonal and festival worship
• Occasional offices (baptisms, weddings, funerals)
  Each church contributes to a shared rota, offering a rhythm of worship that is both varied and rooted in Anglican tradition.

Our life together
We share ministry, pastoral care, and community life across the benefice. This includes:

• supporting village schools and community groups
• offering pastoral care to those in need
• hosting events, concerts and gatherings
• providing spaces for prayer, reflection and stillness
• working together on mission and outreach
  Our benefice is strengthened by collaboration, friendship, and a shared commitment to serving our villages with warmth and hope.

A rural benefice in the Diocese of Leeds
We are part of the Ripon Episcopal Area within the Diocese of Leeds, working alongside neighbouring parishes and benefices. Our deanery connections support us in mission, training, and shared ministry across the region.

Visiting our churches
Our churches are open throughout the week for quiet prayer and reflection:

• Hampsthwaite — open daily
• Birstwith — open daily
• Killinghall — open Monday to Friday
• Felliscliffe — open for services and special events
  You can find full details on our Visiting Our Churches page