Business Details
Welcome to St Wilfrid's Church Ribchester
St Wilfrid's Church In Ribchester is a vibrant rural Christian community rooted in the Anglican tradition. Established within the historic Diocese of Blackburn, we serve as a spiritual and communal focal point for residents and visitors across the Ribble Valley. Our mission centres on fostering inclusivity, mutual support, and joyful worship through God's love. We steward two Grade I listed buildingsSt Wilfrid's in Ribchester and St Saviour's at Styddboth rich in medieval heritage. Our clergy and lay leaders provide pastoral care, sacramental ministry, and community outreach while maintaining these architectural treasures.Through regular services, music programmes, and bell ringing traditions, we engage diverse generations in worship and fellowship. Our commitment to safeguarding reflects the Church of England's highest standards, ensuring safe spaces for all. Financially self-sustaining through donations, we rely on congregational generosity to preserve our heritage and continue ministering to local and wider communities.
Services
Sunday Services
Mid-week Services
Home Communion
Bell Ringing
Music Makers Choir
Safeguarding Support
Parish Events
Historical Tours
Weddings
Funerals
Highlights and features
- We maintain two Grade I listed medieval churches with continuous worship since the 12th century
- Our clergy provide compassionate pastoral care rooted in Anglican tradition
- We offer inclusive worship services accessible to all members of the community
- Our safeguarding policies meet the Church of England's highest standards
- We combine historical preservation with contemporary community engagement
Associations and certifications
- Promoting a Safer Church
What people say
Inclusive community
Beautiful architecture
Rich history
Welcoming atmosphere
Services
Sunday Services
Our Sunday Eucharist services follow traditional Anglican liturgy in historic settings. Held weekly at St Wilfrid's Church, these services include hymn singing, scripture readings, and sacramental ministry. The congregation participates in maintaining this centuries-old worship tradition while welcoming new attendees.
Bell Ringing
The church maintains an active bell ringing programme with weekly practice sessions. No prior experience is needed to learn this historic skill, which combines physical coordination with musical precision. Our tower houses eight bells regularly rung for services and special occasions.
Music Makers Choir
This community choir performs diverse musical repertoire at church services and local concerts. Meeting weekly, the group welcomes all singing abilities without audition requirements. Their performances include traditional anthems and contemporary arrangements in various musical styles.
Safeguarding Support
We implement comprehensive safeguarding policies covering children, young people, and vulnerable adults. Trained officers provide confidential support while maintaining strict compliance with diocesan guidelines. Resources connect individuals with national helplines and specialist agencies when needed.
Historical Tours
Guided visits explore the churches' medieval architecture and archaeological significance. Visitors learn about the sites' Roman fort origins, Norman construction features, and historical connections to the Knights Hospitaller. Information displays explain the buildings' evolving roles through centuries of worship.
People
Rev Canon Brian McConkey
Rector
Serving as Rector since 2017, Canon McConkey oversees spiritual leadership and parish administration. He coordinates inter-parish collaborations while maintaining connections with local Catholic communities. His ministry focuses on inclusive worship and historical preservation.
Jean Johnson
Safeguarding Officer
Jean serves as parish safeguarding officer for children and young people. With diocesan training, she implements protective policies and provides confidential support. Her role ensures compliance with the Church of England's safeguarding standards.
Elaine Watts
Safeguarding Officer
Elaine acts as safeguarding officer for vulnerable adults within the parish. She works closely with diocesan advisors to maintain safe environments for all church activities. Her role includes policy implementation and confidential support provision.
Questions
How can I attend Sunday services at St Wilfrid's Church?
Our main Sunday Eucharist service begins at 10:30am at St Wilfrid's Church in Ribchester. No prior registration is required, and all visitors are welcome to participate in our traditional Anglican worship.
Are there opportunities to get involved in church activities?
Yes! We offer bell ringing, choir participation, historical tours, and community events. Weekly practice sessions for bell ringers occur Wednesdays at 7:30pm, while the Music Makers Choir meets Thursdays at the same time.
How does the church maintain its historic buildings?
We rely on donations and regular giving to preserve our Grade I listed structures. Current stewardship appeals fund essential maintenance, including roof repairs, heating systems, and conservation of medieval architectural features.
What safeguarding measures are in place?
We follow the Church of England's 'Promoting a Safer Church' policy with trained officers for children and vulnerable adults. Detailed procedures cover all church activities, with clear reporting channels for any concerns.
Can I arrange a wedding or funeral at the church?
Yes, we conduct weddings and funerals following Anglican traditions. St Wilfrid's Church and St Saviour's at Stydd offer historic settings for these ceremonies. Contact our office to discuss arrangements and availability.
How does the church support the local community?
Beyond regular worship, we host parish events, provide home communion for housebound members, and maintain connections with local schools. Our buildings serve as venues for cultural activities like concerts and historical exhibitions.
