New to Church?
Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome! Whether you've just moved to the area, or have lived here all your life, we hope our website helps you to find out everything you want to know about our Church.
What time are your Main Services held?
Our main Sunday Services is at 10am (Parish Eucharist) in the Church. There is parking on site, but if this is full, please park in the Middle School next door. Aim to arrive 10 minutes early to ensure you get a parking spot and seat in time for the service to start.
What parking facilities are there at St Michael's?
There is a car park attached to the Church which is free. If that is full on a Sunday we also have use of the car park of St Michael’s Middle School which is next door to the Church.
Is there a dress code?
No! Please just be yourself and come dressed in your 'normal' clothes.
Will I have to join in?
You are free to simply observe or participate as much as feels comfortable for you.
Can I bring my children?
Most definitely! Children are very welcome at all our services. We encourage families to worship together if at all possible.
What’s the music like?
There is a variety of music styles, from traditional hymns to more modern songs, all accompanied by our our organ and choir at the 10am Parish Eucharist service.
What is Eucharist or Communion?
This is a service where bread and wine are blessed and shared. We remember all that Jesus has done for us and that we belong to God. It is also a time to consider our unity to both past and present believers through our faith in Him. Find more information about communion (sometimes called the Eucharist) here.
Usually our ministers and helpers will give out bread and wine to those who come forward to take communion. If you do not wish to take communion but would like to receive a blessing, please hold a service sheet when you go forward.
Alternatively, the minister and helpers will bring bread and wine to those among us who are unable to go up to take communion. If you need help to go forward or would prefer to receive communion or a blessing in your seat, please tell the churchwarden or one of the welcome team.
I am Gluten Free.
If you wish to take Communion, please speak to one of the welcoming team or to a Church Warden before the service so that they can inform the priest and gluten free communion wafer will be provided.
Does St Michael's have facilities for the disabled?
Basic provision is made for those in wheelchairs - we have a ramp available, disabled toilets, two dedicated disable parking spots, and our chairs are movable, allowing us to make more space. We operate a hearing loop system in the Church and Church Centre, so, if you use a hearing aid, just switch it to ‘T’ to hear more clearly in the church. Larger print copies of the services can be provided for any who have sight problems.
Are there any refreshments after the services?
Refreshments are served after the 10am service in the Church Centre and sometimes outside in the summer.
What toilet facilities are there?
The toilets are situated in the Church Centre, including a disable toilet and baby changing facilities.
Do I have to give money?
We often have a collection at our services, but it is entirely up to you whether to contribute. If you are just visiting, please do not feel you have to give any money at all – just come and receive. If you have no change with you, we have a Tap to Givetm contactless payment system where you can make a donation. If you are a UK tax payer, and would like to gift aid your donation, please use a yellow envelope available at the back of church, If you continue coming to St Michael's regularly, you can find out more about supporting through regular financial giving here.
How do I become involved at St Michael's Church?
Simply come along to one of our services, there is no need to make any prior arrangement! We recognise that coming to anywhere unfamiliar can be a bit daunting but we believe that you will find a warm and helpful welcome here. We look forward to seeing you!
Is the Church open mid-week?
The Church is open on Wednesdays while the Community Cafe is running (10.30-2.00). If you would like to visit the church, please pop into the Church Centre Office on between 10am and 12noon and the office staff will open it for you. Any other time by arrangement with the clergy, parish administrator or the churchwardens.
I would like more information regarding organising a Baptism, Wedding or Funeral
You should find all the details you need on our Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals page. This sets out the principal details associated with Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals, but please contact the clergy for any other information or guidance you may require.
How do I book the Church Centre and how much does it cost?
Please contact the Bookings Secretary, Karen Rimmington, whose details are on the contact page. Prices vary according to purpose and can be discussed with the parish administrator. stmichaels.booking.colehill@gmail.com
What if I can't find the information I am looking for on the website?
Please send an e-mail to Revd Suzanne Pattle (vicar.stmichaels.colehill@gmail.com) with your query and your contact details, and this will be passed to whoever we think can best answer your question.
