Author: Laura Thomas

The Alpha Course

Posted on by Laura Thomas

The Alpha Course

We’ve been running Alpha at St Michael’s for many years, and hundreds of people have enjoyed the space to ask the big questions of life in a relaxed and open environment.

Alpha is a place where no subject is off-limits, and no question is too silly, difficult, or controversial (really!). It’s a place to find out what Christians believe, to see whether any of it adds up in practice, to decide what you think and – if you’re up for it – to give some of it a go.

We’d love you to join our next Alpha. There is one starting on Wednesday 2 October in the evening (7pm). To sign-up click here or email Alpha@stmichaelsbristol.org

We are also offering an online course for those who can’t make the evening course. That starts on Tuesday 1 October. Email us for more info!

How Alpha works:

We meet once a week, on a Wednesday, for 8 weeks. There is a Saturday together in the middle for a slightly longer time of food and discussion.

  • Alpha always starts with food.
  • There’s usually some live music.
  • Then there’s a 30-minute presentation on different aspects of faith and Christianity, covering topics like, Who is Jesus? How and why should I pray? How does God guide us?
  • We then get to respond to what we’ve heard, share our own thoughts and experiences, and chew over any questions raised. These discussions are often the best part of the session, and we get to hear from others as well as contribute our own perspective – if we’re up for that.
  • The evening finishes at 9.30pm

Please get in touch

To find out more about Alpha, or to sign up for the next course, please contact us!

Ordinations

Posted on by Laura Thomas

Ordinations

On Saturday 29 June Revd Ellie Huggins is being ordained as priest! This is the next stage in her curacy, and we are so excited to share in this as church family.

Ellie says “For a long time I felt the Lord calling me into leadership in the church. It’s been a very long journey, but it just feels like the culmination, as it’s recognised within the church that this is something that God is calling me to. I am really excited about the opportunities that will now open up. I can’t wait to preside at Communion, and I’m really excited for what the Lord has in this next chapter“

The ordination service is at 3pm on Saturday 29 June at Bristol Cathedral. All are welcome to come along (arrive early to get a seat!)

Also that weekend Catriona Rawlins and Megan Barrick are being ordained as Deacon, which is the first stage of their curacies. Catriona has been on placement with us this year, and Megan was with us as a youth worker before her vicar training. The service is at 10.30am on Sunday 30 June at Bristol Cathedral.

Do join in with praying for Ellie, Catriona and Megan as they continue into the next stage of their calling.

Pray Your Part

Posted on by Laura Thomas

Pray Your Part

The General Election will be a moment for the nation to ask important questions about the future. Pray Your Part is an invitation from the bishops of the Church of England to encourage prayer and participation in the life of our nation and communities, both as voters and as citizens.

This 21-day journey of prayer and reflection (from Friday, 14 June until Election Day on 4 July) is designed for use in the run-up to the UK General Election. Each day explores a different theme, with a short Bible reading, reflection and prayer for a different aspect of our common life.

Sign up for the daily election reflections via email using the form on the Church of England website, where you can also find details on ordering the prayer booklet.



Independent survey to explore attitudes towards the C of E in the Diocese

Posted on by Laura Thomas

Independent survey to explore attitudes towards the C of E in the Diocese

Meaningful Measures Ltd, an independent research company, is conducting a comprehensive survey to understand people’s views on the Church of England and the use of local church spaces in the community. The survey covers Bristol, South Gloucestershire, North Wiltshire, and Swindon, which fall under the Diocese of Bristol. It aims to reach a broad audience, including those not involved with the Church, to capture diverse perspectives on this important topic.

Commissioned by the Diocese of Bristol as part of a broader strategy, the survey seeks to understand public opinions on the churches’ work and their community support efforts. This includes the provision of community groups, cafes, social action, and worship services. Additionally, the survey will explore potential new uses for church spaces and identify barriers that may prevent people from using these spaces. The gathered information will guide efforts to enhance local churches’ support and strengthen community and social action in the area.

Dr. Marie Polley, Co-founder of Meaningful Measures Ltd, highlighted the survey’s significance: “Previous surveys on attitudes towards the Church of England have not focused on the general public’s views regarding the wider use of churches for community support. This survey will provide valuable insights to inform future planning and initiatives.”

Harrison Leonard, Diocesan Director of External Relations, emphasized the research’s importance: “Understanding how people use church spaces and their views on potential community support activities is crucial for us to better support our parishes and build strong community connections. We want our parishes to reflect the diversity of the wider community and ensure everyone feels welcome and included.”

The survey is open until June 30, 2024. Participants have a chance to win a £100 voucher for a supermarket of their choice.

For more information about the survey, please contact hello@meaningfulmeasures.co.uk, or to complete the survey, follow the link below.

Complete the Survey