CHURCH LIFE
Our Community
At St Mary's church, we are constantly bustling with activity! Our mission of faith and worship is just the beginning. We go above and beyond to serve the wider community by organising an array of activities and events, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Our dedicated members of St Mary's church family are always willing to lend a hand in organising these events, and our church provides unwavering support.
For those looking for a musical experience, we host weekly lunchtime concerts that are sure to delight your ears. If you prefer something more educational, our very knowledgeable parishioners organise walking tours around the Hill that are both informative and enjoyable. These tours are especially popular with visitors who are looking to learn more about the rich history of our community.
We have plenty of events catered to people of all ages. At St Mary's church, we believe in bringing people together and fostering a strong sense of community. So come on down and join us- we would love to see you there!
Activities
Local History and Culture
Heritage is important to us at St. Mary's, and we delight in showcasing the rich history on the hill to all those interested. We regularly hold historical walking tours, usually led by our very knowledgeable and passionate Judith Shepherd- an expert on all things St. Mary's! Our tours and talks have covered a variety of themes, from famous inventions and Harrow School alumni, to exploring the amazing stories behind some of the smaller schools on the Hill.
Attendance is often free, and you can turn up on the day. Our walking tours are bound to be fun and educational-not to mention a nice way to get some fresh air! Check the events page for upcoming tours.
Gardening and Flower Arranging
From the spectacular displays at Easter, Harvest and Christmas to flowers for weddings and the delicate posies given out on Mothering Sunday, flowers are a reminder at St Mary's of the beauty of creation. The flower-arranging team is always on the lookout for new members. You don't have to be an expert, so if you'd like to know more, contact Lynne via the Parish Office.
The gardeners meet on the first Saturday morning of each month to work on the upper churchyard. A mixture of trees and shrubs share space with banks of wild flowers, set among well cared-for lawns and some ancient and interesting gravestones. Help is always welcome- if you would like to try some outdoor exercise that does good as well as feeling good. To find out more, contact the Parish Office.
Children at St. Mary's
At St. Mary's we cater to all, young and old! Through our Sunday school and child-friendly Family Eucharist, we create a warm and nurturing environment for children to grow in health and spirit. We also run a toddler's group, and give young people an opportunity to support our worship musically, by joining our choir. Learn more about how we minister to children here!
On Friday at 10AM our lively toddlers' group take over the Church Room, for an hour and a half of games, crafts and play. There's a baby zone, a book corner, rhyme time and a break for biscuits and juice (coffee/tea for grown-ups) a precious chance for parents to socialise.
Tots on the Hill
Sunday School
Our Sunday School welcomes all children of infant or primary school age and meets on the third Sundays of the month. For very young children, we have a special play area in church under the tower. The children leave very near the beginning of the service. At the end of the service the children come up and tell the rest of the congregation what they have been doing and learning.
School Visits
Many of our local primary schools explore St Mary's Church as part of their Religious Studies programme and enjoy our well worked-out guided visits, which are sensitive to the very varied interfaith nature of the Borough. The visits explain major features of the church building, cover some stories in the Bible as they are illustrated in our stained glass (e.g. the Good Samaritan) and explain a little of our history. Visits can, of course, be tailored to particular requirements and interests. Please contact the Parish Office for details.
There are a number of Church of England schools around Harrow and beyond, many of them attended by children at St Mary's. If you are interested in finding out more about them, chat to Father James or click the badge of each school to visit the schools' own websites.
Primary Schools
Bishop Winnington-Ingram Church of England Primary, Ruislip
Saint-Jérôme Church of England Bilingual School, Harrow
St John's Church of England School, Stanmore
Secondary Schools
Bishop Ramsey Church of England High School, Ruislip
Twyford Church of England High School, Ealing Common
William Perkin Church of England High School, Greenford
