Rochdale Churches Announce Lent Services, Bible Studies, and Community Events
Multiple churches across Rochdale are gearing up for a series of spiritual and community-focused activities throughout February and March, with a special emphasis on the Lenten season. From Holy Communion to Bible studies and concerts, these events aim to foster fellowship and welcome newcomers.
St Luke's Church, Deeplish
St Luke's Church in Deeplish will host a Holy Communion service on February 22 at 10am, led by Revd Duke O’Baka-Toto. Following the service, attendees can enjoy tea, coffee, biscuits, and informal conversations. On Wednesday, February 25, the church offers a Bible Study session at 10am as part of their Lent course, open to anyone interested in learning about the Bible in a friendly setting. This will be followed by a Morning Praise service at 11am, also officiated by Duke O’Baka-Toto, welcoming both regular members and newcomers to their caring congregation.
St Mary's, Balderstone
Tomorrow, St Mary's in Balderstone holds an all-age service at 10.30am, focusing on Psalm 32 and Mark chapter twelve verses 28-34. While children's groups are not available, activities will be provided for young attendees. The church ensures accessibility with large print Bibles and a hearing loop upon request. After the service, light snacks and refreshments will be served in a warm atmosphere. Additionally, St Saviour's church on Bishopsgate St hosts a shared prayer gathering tomorrow evening, with options for in-person or Zoom participation. For families, SMUrFs (St Mary's Under Fives) returns on Tuesday afternoon from 1.30pm to 3pm in the parish room, featuring songs, snacks, and toys for a small fee.
Midweek Activities and Courses
Midweek small groups resume this week, meeting on Wednesdays. A daytime group gathers at 10am in the church lounge, while an evening group convenes on Zoom at 7.30pm, studying the book of Samuel. Also starting on Wednesday evening is a Christianity Explored course, running from 7.30pm to 8.45pm on Zoom. This series explores questions about Jesus and faith in an open, friendly environment. For more details, contact the church office or visit their website.
St Chad's and St Mary in the Baum, Rochdale
St Chad's on Sparrow Hill and the Grade 1 listed St Mary in the Baum continue to serve the Rochdale community. On Sunday, February 22, the First Sunday of Lent, services include The Eucharist at St Mary's at 9.15am and Choral Eucharist at St Chad's at 11.15am, both led by Rev Pamela Parr. Children's activities are available during Sunday services, with refreshments afterward. Additionally, St Mary's hosts a Red Cross refugee help session every Monday from 10am to 2pm, offering free admission and refreshments. On Wednesday, February 25, a Toad Lane Lunchtime Concert at St Mary's from 12.30pm to 1.30pm features soprano Margaret Ferguson with pianist Mackenzie Paget, with admission priced at £6.
St Andrews, Dearnley
St Andrews in Dearnley reports a successful service on February 15 and invites all to their regular morning prayer on Wednesdays at 9.30am and midweek Eucharist on Thursdays at 10.30am, with light refreshments available afterward. Their Lent course begins on Thursday, February 19 at 11.15am and runs for six weeks. Confirmation classes are scheduled for February 14, 21, 28, and March 7, leading to a confirmation service on March 15 at St James Milnrow. The church also seeks volunteers for a poppy display project and invites potential lay readers to inquire about training. The Mothers' Union meets on Monday, March 2 at 2pm with speaker David Neal, and encourages a 'count your blessings' initiative during Lent. This month's charity is the North West Air Ambulance.
For those interested in submitting news for local publications, email info@inyouarea.co.uk by 4pm each Wednesday. These events highlight Rochdale's vibrant faith community, offering opportunities for worship, learning, and connection.
