We have two churches with two distinct, but equally valued, styles of worship. St Thomas à Becket, Church Street, offers traditional services on a Sunday morning, at 8am twice a month and 10.30am most Sundays. St Matt’s, Widcombe Hill, offers contemporary worship on Sundays alternating between 10:30am and 5pm services. There is some overlap between the congregations and one Parochial Church Council, which helps to shape the life of the churches.
We are a parish that seeks to bring people to faith and welcomes those who already have faith or who are on a journey to faith. The only qualification for being part of this community is that you wish to join us. We believe that God offers love unconditionally, and it is not our place to set conditions on belonging. This is not a policy that we have set down, but it is the way we act. In this spirit we don’t judge people’s uncertainty and hesitancy, and we recognise that life throws up doubt and questions that may have no easy answer.
So what exactly is a ‘Benefice’?
It’s more than one parish joined together under the care of one Vicar or Rector. In our case, it’s because we are made up of the combined parishes of Widcombe and Lyncombe. But actually both St Thomas à Becket and St Matt’s happen to be in Widcombe Parish… yes, it is a bit complicated!
However, what that means in practice is that Widcombe covers quite a large area.
We have one Parochial Church Council (PCC) for the whole Benefice which looks after both churches. The members are all volunteers and give very generously of their time to managing the finances, the buildings, organising services as well as supporting clergy.
Electoral Roll Administration
Every six years, a new Electoral Roll is prepared. 2025 is one of those years. Even if you are already on the Roll, you will still need to complete a new form.
If you would like to renew your entry or join the Electoral Roll of the Parish of Widcombe for the first time, please go to the Key Information page for a form.
If you’d rather have a paper copy to complete, please contact our Electoral Roll Officer:
Mrs Angie Frith
email: electoralroll@widcombe.church
Safeguarding Officer
This church takes the protection of children and vulnerable adults seriously. Please see our Safeguarding page for more information on how to report any issues.
email: safeguarding@widcombe.church
Safeguarding in the Parish
Read our Safeguarding policy and find out who to contact should you have any concerns.