Services & Worship

This is a quieter and more reflective service lasting around 45/50 minutes. There are not usually hymns sung, apart from on special times of the year such as Harvest, Remembrance and Christmas. The words used are more traditional, and the service is based on the Book of Common Prayer first published in 1549. Although these prayers may be considered by some as ‘traditional’ they were very innovative and daring when first introduced! They were the first prayers ever said in English at parish churches in England. Previous to this, the service would have been said in Latin. Although children are of course welcome, it is not particularly ‘child friendly’ and there is no Sunday School or special provision for children.

This is the main service on Sunday. ‘Eucharist’ is the Greek word for ‘thanksgiving’ and refers to the Holy Communion (another word used for it) as a service of thanksgiving for the gift of God’s eternal life through Jesus. It is from the Church of England’s services called ‘Common Worship’ and usually lasts an hour and 15 minutes. Sometimes it is called a ‘Sung Eucharist’ which means that some of the prayers are sung rather than said. Hymns are also sung at this service: a mixture of traditional well known hymns along with contemporary hymns. There are readings followed by a sermon which explains what the readings are about and applies them to God’s word for today. Children are welcome to stay in any of our services, if you would like an activity pack, please speak with someone at our welcoming table who will be able to help. After the service we have tea and coffee in the New Room, and spilling out in to the church, or outside if the weather is nice.

This service is more informal and family friendly than the Parish Eucharist, the minister’s don’t wear robes, and there is a minimum of liturgy. The songs tend to be more contemporary, although we also sing traditional hymns to modern arrangements. Rather than accompanied by the organ, we have a music group to lead the singing. We have a Junior Church at this service where children of all ages are welcome.

Worship in various styles such as Celtic, Taize, Jewish messianic, Evening Prayer or themed worship linked to the teaching. The ‘sermon’ emphasis is more on bible teaching and doctrine, so goes into things a bit deeper than we are able to do in the mornings. Friends from other churches often attend this and are very welcome. Our summer series begins on 4th May, 6.00pm at The Parish Hall. We will have a five-week series on the life and ministry of the Old Testament prophet Elijah finishing up with ‘Where is the prophet’s mantle today? Themes will include revival and the Holy Spirit and will lead us up to Pentecost.

An informal service, suitable for all ages. Come along for some fun, games, worship and a meal. Please check the church calendar for exact dates.

A few of us gather in the transept to pray the ‘Daily Office’ in keeping with the monastic tradition established in this building 900 years ago. Back then, the monks’ day consisted of seven such services known as ‘offices’. Today we have one – Morning Prayer from Common Worship or a Celtic liturgy. We pray for the needs of the world, the nation, our local community, the church, and also for individual prayer requests.

A thirty minute service of Holy Communion finishing just after 7.00pm, which allows you to do other things that evening. The service is more quiet and reflective, and usually follows the Common Worship Communion Service, though sometimes we have Taize or Iona style Communions. There is normally a ten minute homily and no hymns are sung. It is attended by about 14 people.

At Portchester Parish Hall, Assheton Court. A service of Holy Communion from Common Worship. It lasts around 40 minutes and includes a ten minute homily and sometimes a closing hymn. This service is particularly popular with those who find coming down to the castle on Sundays difficult.

Welcome to St Mary's Church, Portchester

Holy Communion

Parish Eucharist

Later Morning Service

Evening Service

Cafe Church

Morning Prayer

Holy Communion

Holy Communion

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