Worship in Our Benefice

Holy Communion chalice and bread – worship in Hampsthwaite, Felliscliffe, Killinghall and Birstwith

Worship lies at the heart of our life together. Across our four churches, we gather each week to share bread and wine, to sing, to pray, and to grow in faith. Whether you are new, returning, or just curious, you are welcome.

Our worship is rooted in the Choral tradition of the Church of England, embracing a variety of services to meet different tastes and styles. At the centre of our common life is the weekly service of Holy Communion, where we remember Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross and are drawn together in thanksgiving.


Holy Communion

Our Sunday morning services of Holy Communion take place each week in churches across our Benefice.

  • Led by our robed choir, with hymns and a sermon
  • Lasts just over an hour
  • Everyone is welcome to receive bread and wine or a blessing

Following the service, all are welcome to stay for refreshments and fellowship. To see what is happening this Sunday and beyond, visit our Find a Service page.


All-Age Worship

On the fourth Sunday of the month at 4pm, we gather for Together in Worship, a service designed to appeal to all ages, with a special welcome for young families.

  • Includes four songs, craft activities, and refreshments
  • Features an interactive talk or dramatic presentation instead of a sermon
  • Baptism families are often welcomed, and our Junior Choir regularly takes a lead role

Evensong

Said Evensong, using the Book of Common Prayer, is held at St James’ Church, Birstwith on the 1st and 3rd Sunday evenings of each month at 6:30pm.

  • Quiet, reflective worship in traditional language
  • Led by clergy and lay readers
  • Lasts about 40 minutes

Seasonal and Special Services

Throughout the year, we hold special services to mark key moments in the Christian calendar and in the life of our community:

  • Advent, Christmas, Holy Week, and Easter
  • Remembrance Sunday
  • Our annual Memorial Service for the bereaved at All Souls tide

Details of these services are shown on our Find a Service page.


Accessibility and Welcome

All of our churches are accessible, and, with the exception of Felliscliffe Chapel, have toilets available and dedicated spaces for children. Refreshments are offered at many of our services; if you are able to stay afterwards, we would love you to share in fellowship with us. Whether you come alone, with family, or with questions, you are welcome.


A Church for All

We believe in a Church where all are welcome, all are treated as family, and all are invited to explore the depth of Christ’s love. Come as you are, we would love to meet you.