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Discover bell ringing, music, fellowship, Scouting and other ways to meet people and become involved.
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Community Life
Parish life is formed at the altar and lived out in friendship, service, creativity, laughter and care for one another.
Faith, friendship and fun — shared together
A parish family
There is a place for you
Community is not an extra added to our faith. In Christ we are made one body, learning to receive one another as gifts from God. Whether you enjoy music, conversation, creativity, serving, learning or simply sharing a meal, there are many ways to take part.
Messy Church
A relaxed and creative way for children and their families to explore faith, worship and eat together.
Discover Messy Church
Parish schools
Meet the two Church of England primary schools with which our parish shares worship, prayer and community.
Visit our schools pageEvents and fundraising
Join an evening of food, games or entertainment and help sustain the worship and mission of our parish.
See fundraising eventsMeet, learn and serve
Groups within our parish family
Some groups support our worship, some build friendships and some help children and adults discover new skills. All are part of our common life.
Skill and service
Bell ringers
Bell ringing combines teamwork, concentration, gentle exercise and a service to the Church. Both churches have their own bells, and patient tuition is available for new ringers.
Suitable for a wide range of ages and experience.
Music and worship
St Matthew’s Choir
Our traditional mixed choir enriches Sunday Mass, Evensong and the great festivals of the Christian year. New singers who would enjoy serving God through music are warmly encouraged.
Singing faith with spirit and understanding.
Prayer and friendship
Mothers’ Union
A welcoming fellowship centred on prayer, Christian family life and practical concern for others. Meetings include speakers, conversation and time to enjoy one another’s company.
Meetings are open to visitors as well as members.
Adventure and growth
3rd Ashford Scouts
Beavers, Cubs and Scouts gather through the week for friendship, practical skills and adventure. The group has longstanding roots in the life of St Matthew’s.
Helping young people develop confidence and serve others.
Faith for every age
Messy Church
Children are not merely the Church of tomorrow: through Baptism they belong fully to the Church today.
Create, listen, sing, pray and eat together
Messy Church brings families together to explore a Bible story through crafts and activities, share a short and joyful act of worship, and finish with food around the table. It is informal, friendly and designed for adults and children to participate together.
Usually the third Saturday of the month during term time, 15:00–17:00 at St Mary’s.
Please check the Messy Church page or parish calendar before travelling, as occasional dates may change.
Messy Church detailsChurch and school together
Our parish schools
We value our close relationship with the schools serving Ashford and Stanwell, supporting children and staff through prayer, worship and a shared Christian vision.
Ashford Church of England Primary School
A nurturing Christian community founded on love, compassion and respect, encouraging every child to grow in confidence, aspiration and awareness of God’s love.
Stanwell Fields Church of England Primary School
A friendly and supportive school community in which children are encouraged to flourish, learn and achieve through God.
Come and belong
Parish life is better when it is shared
Come to an event, try a group, bring an idea or offer a pair of helping hands. You will be welcomed—and there is no expectation that you must already know how everything works.
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Glad and generous hearts
Good food, good company and plenty of laughter
We aim to hold a fundraising or social event every month. Some occasions raise money for parish life; others are simply opportunities to relax, celebrate and enjoy being together.
Something different each month
You do not need to be a regular churchgoer or already know lots of people. Our events are open, friendly and a particularly easy way to meet the parish community.
We are always open to new ideas—and to people who would like to help organise, cook, welcome, set up or clear away.
View forthcoming events