Business Details
13 Years
experience
Your Welcoming Worshipping Community in Guildford
Guildford Methodist Church is a vibrant worshipping community in the heart of Guildford, operating in partnership with the Church of England parish at St Mary's since 2013. Our mission focuses on sharing God's love through inclusive worship and community engagement, serving both local residents and international visitors. The church occupies a historic building dating back over 800 years, which has undergone significant modernisation including improved accessibility and new communal facilities. We host diverse weekly services at 8:00 and 10:30 on Sundays, following both Methodist and Anglican traditions. Our community extends beyond worship through regular activities including Chit Chat sessions for international residents, Lunchtime Reflections during Advent and Lent, and the unique Vigil for Peace held every Friday evening.The church plays a central role in Guildford's social fabric through initiatives like the Street Angels programme and maintains strong connections with other Methodist churches through the Wey Valley Circuit. Our commitment to environmental stewardship was recognised in 2021 with Silver EcoChurch status. The building's special atmosphere combines historical significance with modern functionality, offering a welcoming space for spiritual reflection and community interaction.
Services
Worship Services
Baptisms
Funerals
Reflections
Exhibitions
Vigil for Peace
Chit Chat Sessions
Organ Recitals
Community Outreach
Spiritual Guidance
Details
- Year established: 2013
Highlights and features
- We offer inclusive worship combining Methodist and Anglican traditions
- Our historic building combines 800 years of heritage with modern facilities
- We host diverse community activities for local and international residents
- Our Street Angels initiative supports Guildford's night-time economy
- We maintain strong environmental commitments through EcoChurch status
Associations and certifications
- EcoChurch
What people say
Welcoming atmosphere
Beautiful historic building
Meaningful peace vigils
Excellent community outreach
Inclusive worship services
Services
Worship Services
Weekly Christian worship services held every Sunday morning at 8:00 and 10:30. Combines Methodist and Anglican traditions with clergy from both denominations participating. Services include Holy Communion following the Book of Common Prayer and contemporary worship formats. Open to all members of the community seeking spiritual connection and fellowship.
Vigil for Peace
Weekly peace vigil held every Friday evening from 21:00-23:00 since the Ukraine invasion. Provides a space for reflection, prayer and candle lighting for global peace. Welcomes Guildford's night-time visitors seeking spiritual respite. Includes on-screen prompts for thought and prayer, creating a unique bridge between traditional worship and modern outreach.
Chit Chat Sessions
Weekly English language practice sessions for international residents held Wednesday mornings during term time. Combines language learning with cultural exchange and community connection. Available both in-person and via Zoom, offering flexible participation options for Guildford's diverse population.
Lunchtime Reflections
Special reflective services during Advent and Lent featuring short talks followed by bread and soup meals. Held on Thursdays to accommodate working professionals. Combines spiritual reflection with community dining, creating accessible opportunities for midday worship and fellowship.
Organ Recitals
Monthly organ recitals showcasing the church's historic instrument, held on the second Tuesday of each month except January and February. Features performances by leading organists, highlighting the building's rich musical heritage while engaging both regular worshippers and music enthusiasts.
People
Rev Dr Paul Glass
Minister
Rev Dr Paul Glass leads our worshipping community with extensive experience in interdenominational ministry. He oversees spiritual direction and community engagement at St Mary's, maintaining strong connections with both Methodist and Anglican traditions. Available for pastoral care and guidance.
Andrea Campion-Smith
Senior Church Steward
Andrea Campion-Smith manages church operations and visitor services with deep knowledge of Guildford's religious heritage. She coordinates facility access and community programmes, ensuring smooth operation of our shared worship space at St Mary's.
Questions
What denominations worship at St Mary's?
St Mary's hosts a unique partnership between Guildford Methodist Church and the Church of England parish, with services combining both traditions.
Are services accessible for visitors?
Yes, our building has improved accessibility features and we offer multiple services including early morning, weekly vigils, and special seasonal events.
What community activities do you offer?
We provide Chit Chat sessions for international residents, Lunchtime Reflections, Vigil for Peace, organ recitals, and charity-focused Coffee & Cake events.
What environmental initiatives do you have?
We hold Silver EcoChurch status and incorporate sustainable practices in our building maintenance and community programmes.
Is St Mary's open outside services?
Yes, the church is open Tuesdays 13:00-15:00 and Thursdays 11:00-15:00 for quiet reflection, coffee, or informal visits.
