There are three main groups at St. Mary's church specifically for Young People:
1. Tots and Teddies
This is one of the most active congregations at St. Mary's. We meet on Tuesday afternoons during term time for a service aimed at the under five year olds and their parents/carers.
The service consists of ringing one of the church bells, praising God on musical instruments, lighting the Altar candles, having a story, a song and a prayer and then blowing out the candles. This consistent format gives a sense of involvement and security to the Tots.
Our time together finishes with toys, a drink and a biscuit (and sometimes home made cake).
2. Holiday Clubs
During the Easter and Summer Holidays we run Holiday Clubs for children aged 5 to 11 years.
All course material comes from the Scripture Union. Each session involves lively games, craft, songs, a Bible story on DVD and live drama. Every morning finishes with a worship session, when we sing a chorus and pray together.
3. Jubilate
Jubilate is the Junior Choir at St Mary's (the name "Jubilate" comes from a Latin word which means "to shout for joy").
Anybody at Lower or Middle school from Year One upwards, boys and girls, may join. The choir is open to everybody who enjoys singing. You do not even need to know anything about music before you start. If you are not sure whether you will enjoy yourself, then come along, bring your friends and try it for a few weeks. At least have a go!
Jubilate meets in church on Monday evenings during term time. You will join with others in music and singing games which will help you learn about music and how to sing well. You will then be able to use your skills to learn new songs and hymns. Singing in a choir is a great way of increasing your musical ability whilst having fun. If you also play a musical instrument then your singing will help you with that, too.
There will be a small number of Sunday services and special events throughout the year when you will be asked to sing. You will always be told about these dates well in advance so there should not be any problems. Our uniform for performances is a special Jubilate sweatshirt (which will be provided for you) plus black trousers and black shoes.
For further details about any of the above, please contact us.