St John’s is a beautiful stone built building with a high roof and imposing tower, built 145 years ago. It is set on a good site in the centre of Whitchurch, with the main road adjacent. Many people think that it is an Anglican church as they pass by. It is, through tradition and worship, a Methodist church. It has had a fine history of service to the community. It seats 350 people and has a fine organ.
Today there are 72 members and an average congregation of about 50. Sunday services commence at 10.30 am, with some evening services at 6.30 pm. There is a monthly Network group for ladies and a weekly Mums and Toddlers group. A music group rehearses each week for the Sunday worship and an occasional choir meets together for special musicals. A prayer group meets before the service and there are two house groups currently meeting, plus a monthly fellowship at nearby St John’s Park community home. The worship pattern is wide and varied but usually there is a strong emphasis on preaching and communion is taken once per month. Pastoral care is important and a magazine is produced each month.
Various community groups use the premises, including a WI group, the Photographic society, a bridge club and a small choir.
The church is used for a variety of events, including an annual series of lunch time musical concerts each Spring. Examples of past events include a production by the Jasperian Theatre, a concert by country singer George Hamilton IV, choral works sung by a choir from America, and a one-man dramatic presentation by actor Mark Topping based on the crucifixion.
Visitors will receive a warm welcome and there is an invitation to stay for refreshments at the end of the service.
