Welcome to St Michael's!

Although our church dates back to the 14th century, you will find that we are proud to live and worship with our hearts and minds firmly in the 21st century.

Our parish church is very easy to find (if you have a satnav, simply enter our post code, SG17 5DD). We enjoy a prominent position right at the heart of the vibrant and picturesque market town of Shefford in Bedfordshire - just look for the tower.

Part of the United Benefice of Meppershall & Shefford, we aim to offer you the widest possible range of opportunities for worship, friendship, spiritual development, healing and growth, family friendly activities, and social/cultural events to suit all ages and tastes.

Whether you're new to the area and looking for somewhere to put down your spiritual roots, visiting Shefford, or you just think "there's got to be more to life than this", come and spend some time with us and see what being part of a truly open Christian community can add to your life.

Interested, but not sure how to take the first step? Yes, most of us have felt like that at some time or another... all we can suggest is that you take a look at our "what's on", find something that interests you, and have a go...

Whatever you choose, we'll do our very best to make you feel welcome!

...And just imagine what we could offer if your gifts and talents were added to the mix...

TREEMENDOUS!

As many of you know, Jenny has been working hard on our new all-age musical for October 2009, and the songs are now all written and ready to be brought to life by the wonderful team that is already coming together. Now it's time to start preparations in earnest, and we plan to hold two or three workshops/rehearsals in late January /early February for anyone who is interested. As well as the main characters, singers and musicians, there'll be some walk-on parts that don't involve any singing or speaking. And of course we'll welcome behind-the-scenes helpers for a variety of tasks.
Possible dates being considered are Saturdays January 31st and February 7th (morning and/or afternoon) and Mondays February 2nd and 9th (evening). If you'd like to be part of this exciting production, please get in touch with Jenny Dann on 01462 817337 (or email Jenny via the contact us page) indicating which date(s) you'd prefer.

ALPHA Invitation

The latest ALPHA course is due to start in January 2009. A supper is being arranged for Saturday 17th January 2009 (7 for 7.30pm) at Meppershall school to introduce the ALPHA course - a short, practical introduction to the Christian faith that has enriched many lives.

Click here for full details...

New Rural Dean

Our vicar, the Rev John Harper, has been appointed and commissioned as the new Rural Dean of the Shefford Deanery.

Click here for the full story...

History Update

We have just been lent a wonderful photograph showing the Rev G. Strange surrounded by St Michael's choir, c1928. Along with the photograph came the names of some of the choir members - can anyone help us to identify the rest? Click here to view the updated history page...

Remember Me?

We've just added a news item about Remembrance Sunday's launch of a new portfolio called Remember Me? Cliff Billingham (19 when I copped it).

Stuart Brayne, former church warden of St Michaels was intrigued about the names on the Shefford War Memorial, and contacted the history department at Samuel Whitbread Community college, asking if any students could do some research on the list of soldiers. You are welcome to look at it during opening hours in the church.

Click here for the full story...

Home Visits

If you would like to receive a visit at home to receive Communion, for prayer, or for a chat, please ring:

• John Harper, Vicar 01462 813334
• Patsy Critchley, Curate 01234 381510
• Jenny Dann, Licensed Lay Minister 01462 817337

- they will always be pleased to call.

Likewise, if you know of any who are in hospital or who are unwell at home, please let us know.

Prayer Requests

We have a Prayer Book available for prayer requests - you will find it on a small table in front of the Lady Chapel at the back of the church. Do feel free to use it - our church is open 7 days a week, and prayer requests from the book are included in our Sunday morning service prayers

Daily Bread

There's never been a better time to try these extremely popular products - a mouthwatering display of wholefood and other fairly traded goods from the Daily Bread Cooperative is now on permanent display at St Michael's. (See Benefice News for more details).

• Shop 'till you drop - buy direct from our Traidcraft stall in St Michael's 10.35 - 12.00 on Friday 30th January (2009)
• Please place your orders by Wednesday 7th January - see display table in church or ring Michelle on 01462 814117
• Orders will be delivered on the morning of Tuesday 13th January
• For further details of the Daily Bread product range, visit their website at http://www.dailybread.co.uk

Got Any News?

We're always on the lookout for local news and events to publicise to our congregation and the hundreds of visitors we get to our Website every month.

If you're looking for some free, non-commercial promotion for your local event (and maybe even a venue for it), contact our Webteam NOW!

 In Brief...