Hexham Abbey

Ecclesiastical Benefits

Centre

SERVING SPIRITUAL NEEDS.

As a place of worship this peerless church needs no introduction. Ever since St Wilfrid laid the first stone in the 7th Century, Hexham Abbey has played a pivotal role in the development of the English Church.

Yet for all its history, this is not a museum destined only to display past glories. Hexham Abbey is a living church, with a growing church community, that continues the essential work of providing both worship and welfare.

Besides the essential contributions made to spiritual life by volunteer groups, such as the choirs and bell ringers, the Abbey supports a growing number of social groups who share a common faith and the need to, grow and discuss their faith with others. These groups include:

Candles - a Bible study and personal issues discussion group for persons aged 15 years and over.

• The Group with No Name - a support, study & social group for men in their 30s and 40s.
• Mothers’ Union - an ecumenical social group supporting family life.
• Nightlights - a Christian youth group for young people aged 11 and over.
• Open House - an ecumenical Bible study group open to all.
• Junior Church - four Sunday school groups for 3-4 yrs, 5-6 yrs, 6-8yrs and 8+yrs. There is also a crèche.
• Tots’ Praise - songs, stories & fun for babies, toddlers, pre-school children and their carers.
• Women’s Group - a study group for women with busy family and/or working lives offering an opportunity to share ideas about faith and life.
• Parish Breakfast - breakfast is served each Sunday morning to provide members of the congregation, as well as casual visitors, the opportunity to meet and socialise.
• Adult education groups - Hexham Abbey operates a number of adult education groups linked to the educational programmes run by the wider diocese.
• Counselling and Support groups - the Abbey is home to a number of social welfare groups offering help and advice to those coping with difficult problems.

These groups need more room to expand their numbers, increase the opportunities they can offer and develop their vital work. There is also a desperate need for more space in which to hold social events for the congregation, conduct governance meetings and administer the day-to- day running of the church.

The Hexham Abbey Centre will provide this crucial space.