...seeking to be an inclusive, welcoming,
Christ-shaped community,
reflecting the unconditional love of God.
The Parish of Worplesdon lies to the north-west of Guildford and includes the communities of Fairlands, Wood Street Village, Broadacres and Worplesdon. Click here for a map of the parish.
There are two centres of worship: St Mary's Church, Worplesdon and St Alban's Church, Wood Street Village.
There has been a church in Worplesdon since at least 1086, the original building being a Chantry Chapel at the southern edge of what was then Windsor Great Forest. The oldest part of the present building is 13th Century, along with some 14th Century glass. The Victorians have inevitably had a major impact on the present building. In 1976 the South Chapel was converted into a meeting room. The church, which is Grade 1 listed, has been described as having the finest church tower in Surrey!
As Wood Street began to develop a distinct identity with its own school, conversations began in the late Victorian era about the building of a church for the village. However it was not until 1925 that a Mission Hall was built which was then re-dedicated as St Alban's Church in 1937. In 1967 the original building was replaced with an attractive modern church which now also has a church hall attached. The church was extensively renovated in 2003.
Since 1693 the patronage of the parish has belonged to Eton College. The original Parish of Worplesdon included the present day parishes of Wyke, Burpham and the community of Jacobs Well. The civil parish of Worplesdon still includes Jacobs Well. The recent Diocesan pastoral re-organisation, grouping Worplesdon with the neighbouring parish of Wyke therefore has some historical precedent!
The parish is perhaps best described as "gently catholic" although in reality we draw from a wide range of traditions. The Eucharist lies at the heart of our worship but the parish is also committed to exploring new Fresh Expressions of worship. Vestments are worn and the Sacrament is reserved at St Alban's Church. The Laity take a full and active part in worship. Members of the congregations read lessons, lead intercessions, take part in offertory procession, serve and administer the chalice. A lay team has been formed to help in both the planning and leading of all-age worship, and lay members help plan and lead the different groups at iWorship.
