The Church of St. Peter and St Paul stands in a magnificent position dominating the approach to the village across the Levels from the North.
At night when floodlit it almost seems to hang in the sky. It is one of the oldest, and certainly the most impressive, building in the community which it has served for about seven centuries. The octagonal tower is unusual, though not unique, among Somerset Churches (there are others at Stoke St. Gregory and Barrington).
Its primary function is to witness to the glory of God, and it is a powerful reminder of the centrality of the Christian Gospel in our Somerset history.
Alfred's establishment of a first English Christian Kingdom began from the Island of Athelney a couple of miles to the north east more than eleven centuries ago.
In the twenty-first century the Church is maintained and used by a loyal and dedicated congregation who enjoy a rich tradition of worship, and work hard to maintain and enhance the beauty of this remarkable building.
Please feel free to join us at worship, to explore the richness of the building in your own time, or simply to use it for a time of private peace and reflection. You are always welcome.
The front of the church (Julian Comrie)
Path to the side (Julian Comrie)
View from the back of the church, after the early March 2020 floodings (Edward Ashby)
The church chancel re-opened on 7th March for private prayer only.
But we are pleased to announce that from 4th April, the Easter Service onwards, all services will once again commence in person. In the meantime, a zoom service link continues, and can be found at www.athelneybenefice.com
Contact him on 01823 490247 or vicar@athelneybenefice.com
The April 2021 magazine is HERE! (old issues are listed below).
Please click here for our policy and information
Click the link to see a copy online:
Planned Giving, by standing order, is a regular charitable payment (or pledge) to the church.
This type of giving to the church is an important and integral aspect of the church finances.
The majority of our income comes through gift donations through the planned giving scheme.
Donations pledges by standing order are easier to manager and administer, both for you and us.
In March 2019 , the PCC formally adopted the Diocesan Safeguarding Policy 2018. Helen Griffiths is the Safeguarding Officer on the PCC, and she can be contacted on 01823 491298. In line with the Diocesan policy we are committed to:
In all these principles we will follow legislation, guidance and recognized good practice.
Christian communities should be places where all people feel welcomed, respected and safe from abuse. The Church is particularly called by God to support those less powerful and those without a voice in our society. The Church is working towards creating a safe and non-discriminatory environment by being aware of some of the particular situations that create vulnerability. Issues which need to be considered include both the physical environment and the attitudes of workers and volunteers. A person who might be considered vulnerable has the right to:
In all these principles we will follow legislation, guidance and recognised good practice. This will involve, in particular, openness among those with a legitimate need to know, confidentiality for those not directly involved, and the sharing of information with the statutory authorities.