These are our parish's thoughts about the key stages of our journey through life -

Thanksgiving for the Gift of Life

The gift of a child by birth or by adoption is a great occasion for which the church provides a short service for parents to say Thank You to God. The service is for parents who will later bring their child for baptism as well as for those who may not be ready to make the commitment that baptism involves.

Baptisms or Christenings

Baptism (sometimes known as christening) is not a one -off service, it marks the beginning of a Christian journey that involves sharing in the church's life and leads to confirmation and communion. The church baptises both children and adults and is pleased to arrange preparation for either. Because baptism is coming into the life of the church it takes place when local church people are gathered for worship, so that the newly baptised are seen as part of the church family and welcomed into the church.

Confirmation

Confirmation is part of Baptism, and those who have been baptised as children may wish to make the baptism promises for themselves, when they reach the age of about 10 or 11 years old. It is not uncommon for adults to be baptised and confirmed at the same service. Confirmation preparation is given over a few months.

Weddings

Before the service, careful preparation is given, exploring what marriage is and what the church teaches about it. It is possible to include a Nuptial Eucharist or Mass, specially appropriate for Christian couples. Marriage requires a man and women to be faithful to each other and is for life. But marriages sadly can break down. The Church may be able to help celebrate a second marriage in exceptional situations, but only after thoughtful consideration.

St. John's has bells, which are popular for weddings.

Funerals

This is an important ministry, the church being privileged to share in the marking of a close to human life on earth and being a focus for friends and families to express grief and thanksgiving for the completion of life's journey. Services are held in the Parish Church, or occasionally in the District church of St. Edmund. Otherwise the parish clergy conduct services at the crematorium or cemetery. It is possible to include a Requiem Eucharist or Mass. Also a memorial Service can be held at a later date.