The Old Town Partnership of Churches, comprising Bath Road Methodist Church, Christ Church with St Mary’s, and Immanuel United Reformed Church, is sharing an open invite to a series of captivating events in honor of the upcoming Coronation Weekend.
Held at Christ Church and the Community Centre @ Christ Church, these festivities will take place from Friday, May 5th to Sunday, May 7th, 2023. As you walk through the church grounds, you’ll be greeted by charming bunting and flags, creating a joyful atmosphere for the festival weekend.
Reverend Simon Stevenette, the Vicar of Christ Church, expressed his delight, saying, “We are thrilled to host this festival of events as part of the Old Town Partnership of Churches, celebrating the Coronation Weekend.
“It is an excellent opportunity for the community to come together in celebration and reflect on the values that the Coronation represents.”
The jubilant celebrations kick off on Friday, May 5th, at 7:30 PM, with a Partnership Service of Celebration at Christ Church, followed by a delightful cheese and wine reception in the Community Centre.
Saturday, May 6th, the day of the Coronation, will begin with Morning Prayer and Men’s Breakfast at 7:30 AM. You can then witness the Coronation service from Westminster Abbey, livestreamed from the BBC coverage, starting at 10 AM. Refreshments will be provided during the service. At 1:30 PM, brace yourself for a full peal attempt, where bells will ring joyously in celebration of the Coronation Day.
On Sunday, May 7th, at 8 AM, a special 1662 Book of Common Prayer Holy Communion Service will be held. The Partnership will also continue with its regular Sunday services in the morning.
Following the wishes of the King, a delightful ‘Big Lunch’ awaits, as members of the congregation prepare a mouthwatering roast chicken dinner (with a vegetarian alternative) for 100 people in the Community Centre.
Guests are kindly requested to bring their own bottles of juice, soft drinks, or flavored waters. In the evening, you are invited to join in as the live stream of the party and concert will be shown from Windsor Castle on the big screen, starting at 7:30 PM. This informal event calls for a picnic, so bring your favorite treats and enjoy the festivities!
Beyond the Coronation Weekend, starting on Monday, May 8th, the Partnership Churches will shift their focus to volunteering during the Coronation year. They will explore opportunities for volunteers to support Christ Church and the wider Swindon community. Together, they aim to fulfill the King’s wishes and make a positive impact by offering their time and service.
Reverend Simon emphasized the three key themes of the Coronation Festival: caring for the environment, fostering community connections, and embracing volunteering opportunities at Christ Church and throughout the broader community.
All events and services are open to everyone. For further information, please reach out to the Christ Church parish office at communications@christchurchswindon.co.uk.
