Parish of Sedlescombe with Whatlington

Social, groups and organisations

From Bells to Bazaars — There’s a Place for You

An Operatic evening at St John's

The Parish of Sedlescombe with Whatlington is more than a place of worship — it's a vibrant hub of community life. From the joyful ring of bells to the buzz of Café St John’s, from garden volunteers to heritage champions, our churches are home to a wide range of groups that welcome everyone with open arms.

Whether you're a seasoned parishioner or simply curious, there's a place for you here. No need to be a regular churchgoer — just bring your interest, your energy, or even just your smile. Explore the groups below and discover how you might get involved. You never know where it might lead.

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We regularly hold one-off, seasonal and annual events and services at which everyone is welcome.

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Cafe St Johns & Mini Market

What to expect

Held on the first Thursday of each month in Sedlescombe Village Hall (just down the hill from the church, towards the village), our coffee mornings are a great way to meet other locals and make new friends!

As well as good coffee, we offer stalls selling homemade cakes, books, puzzles, bric-a-brac, plants, & more!

So come along, enjoy a coffee or tea and homemade scones — a chance to get together and chat!

Doors open at 10am.

Café St John's coffee morning

Bellringing

What to expect

For centuries church bells have sounded across the country to call people to worship, in celebration of special occasions, in remembrance or to mark special events. In the very early days, the bells were “chimed” to make a sound but the ringers had little control over the order in which the bells sounded and therefore the “music” they played.

In the sixteenth century, church bells began to be hung with a full wheel enabling the bell to swing in a full circle and back again. This gave ringers control of their bell, allowing sets of bells (rings) to be rung in a continuously changing pattern.

Bellringing is a team activity that stimulates the brain and helps keep you fit — and it also makes a glorious sound! Many consider ringing to be their contribution to church life, others do it for the pure pleasure it brings.

At Sedlescombe Parish Church, bellringing practice is held once a fortnight on a Wednesday. New members are welcome, so please get in touch if you'd like to try your hand at campanology!

Bellringers at Sedlescombe Parish Church

Friends of Sedlescombe Parish Church

What to expect

Friends of Sedlescombe Parish Church Heritage Trust is a registered charity (Reg Charity no 1027001), formed by the late Beryl Lucey.

Trust members are people who appreciate the architecture and history of the building. The trust aims to raise funds to assist in the care and maintenance of the Church, its fabric and furnishings.

The trust organises charity events throughout the year.

If you'd like to get involved, or help raise funds to keep the building maintained, please get in touch with Judy Torrance on 01424 870344.

Friends of Sedlescombe Parish Church Heritage Trust

Church Yards – maintenance and care

What to expect

Both churches are fortunate to benefit from beautiful grounds surrounding them. However, these grounds need regular maintenance in order to keep them looking at their best.

If you are interested in spending some free time helping maintain these areas, please email us here or get in touch using the contact form.

You won't have to commit to regular times or dates — you can help out whenever suits your diary.

Enjoy the peace and quiet of the gardens and take in the views of the surrounding countryside while you help maintain the grounds.

Any help, no matter how small, is greatly appreciated and will help keep the churchyards looking beautiful.

Churchyard maintenance and care

Sedlescombe with Whatlington Parochial Church Council

What to expect

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is responsible for the running of the two parish churches and their events and services.

Members of the PCC are elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting, held each spring, and serve for extendable three‑year terms.

Regular PCC meetings are held throughout the year, attended by elected members.

Once a year, the Annual Parochial Church Meeting is held — an open meeting where activities, church membership, PCC members and financial statements are all reported on.

Please get in touch with us using the contact form if you require more information.

Parochial Church Council meeting

A Place to Belong

Church group chatting at Café St John's

Whether you're drawn to the sound of bells, the scent of fresh scones, the peace of the grounds, or the joy of preserving our heritage — there's a place for you here.

Our church groups are built on friendship, shared purpose, and a love for our community.

We’d be delighted to welcome you, whatever your background or beliefs.

So if something here sparks your interest, don’t hesitate — come along, lend a hand, or simply say hello.