Parish of Sedlescombe with Whatlington

What to Expect & Common Questions

What to Expect and Frequently-Asked Questions (FAQs)

Stained glass window at St John's

Whether you’ve not been to church for a long time, have never stepped inside before, or come along regularly — you’re assured of a warm welcome at either of our Parish churches.

It can feel daunting to step into something that's unfamiliar, and not knowing what to expect can form a big part of that worry.

So we’ve put together this page to help answer common questions, help you understand what you can expect, and hopefully reassure you.

We hope this guide helps you feel informed, reassured, and right at home.

You can expect a warm welcome whenever you come to St Mary Magdalene or St John the Baptist church, and we hope you'll visit soon.

What to expect at a service

If you've never been to church before, are new to the area, or have not attended a service in a long while, it's understandably a little daunting to come along for the first time. However, rest assured that you will be warmly welcomed and not forced to take part in anything you don't wish!

As you come in to the church before the service, you'll be given a service booklet which will list each part of the service, and what the congregation will say. You also be handed a sheet of readings for the day, on the reverse of which is a list of events in the coming weeks. Additionally, a book of hymns will be handed to you so you can join (or not!) in the singing, as you feel comfortable. The congregation are always instructed as to when they need to stand (if able to do so), and when to sit. So, throughout the service, you will not have to guess what to do or say at any point.

After the service, refreshments are often served and you are very welcome to join. It is a chance to meet others in the congregation, to have an informal chat, introduce yourself, and to learn more about your fellow worshipers. But, if you'd prefer to head off once the service concludes, you won't be pressured into staying. It's always your choice how involved you'd like to be.

FAQs

Frequently-asked questions

Our Sunday services start at 9:15am at St Mary's, Whatlington and at 10:30am in St John's Sedlescombe.

On the first Sunday of each month at St John's Sedlecombe, and on the second Sunday of each month at St Mary's Whatlington, we have a family service which is a little more relaxed. It is ideal for families, but anyone can attend.

Every other Sunday morning, a Communion service is held at both churches. Similar to the family service in format, at these services the Communion is at its heart.

At all our services we will sing hymns, hear readings and take a blessing.

After the service, tea and coffee is served and you're welcome to stay and chat with others.
We welcome children to all our services, but if you're not sure if it would be suitable, why not attend our Family Service (on the first Sunday of each month at St Johns, and the second Sunday of each month at St Mary's), which is a shorter and less formal service.
There is no dress code; come in whatever you feel comfortable wearing. Some do wear their “Sunday best” but you’re also likely to see someone in slacks or jeans and a casual shirt. We believe the most important part about Sunday morning is showing up, ready to worship God.
Not at all! You are free to simply observe or participate as much as feels comfortable for you. We aim for visitors to feel at ease just listening in to the hymns, readings and prayers. We want you to feel at home and enjoy the service.
Each of our Sunday services, apart from the family service, includes Communion. Everyone is invited to join a queue to take bread and wine at the front of church. We invite all who are baptised in the name of Jesus to share the bread and wine. If you would like a blessing but haven't been baptised, you can do so by joining the queue but, when approached, hold your hymn book in your hand to signal that you wish to be blessed. If you would rather not take part at all, you are free to simply watch what is happening and remain seated during Communion as many do. It is entirely your choice and not a problem!
We strive to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We greet each other so everyone feels welcomed; we share announcements and church news; we sing and listen to our wonderful organist perform beautiful music; we sometimes share the congregation’s news or concerns and lift them to God in prayer; we hear readings from the Bible; and during most services we take communion (see above).

Events & Services in our Parish