Sunday Worship
The Holy Eucharist is celebrated every Sunday at the church of the Dominicans at 10.30 (except on certain feast days when the starting time may be altered). The liturgy is based on Common Worship, an authorised liturgical resource of the Church of England. Hymns are drawn from a variety of sources.
On the first Sunday of the month there is a Communion service at 9.40 following the rite of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer (BCP). The BCP remains the standard liturgy of the Church of England and is well loved for the beauty of its language.
Also on the first Sunday of the month, the 10.30 service takes a less formal framework which invites the active participation of the children. This All Age Worship uses hymns and songs that are often accompanied on the guitar and other instruments. Prayers and readings are shared by members of all ages and backgrounds.
Malagasy service / culte de la communauté Malgache
A significant number of the St Alban’s family originate from Madagascar. On the fourth Sunday of every month, Malagasy members and others gather for fellowship and to celebrate the Holy Eucharist. The service is in Malagasy and French.
Un nombre important de la famille St Alban est originaire de Madagascar. Les membres malgaches et d’autres se rassemblent le quatrième dimanche de chaque mois pour le partage et pour célébrer la Sainte Eucharistie. La messe est en malgache et en français.
Baptism & Confirmation
Holy Baptism is the sacrament of initiation by water and the Spirit into the life of the Church. It marks the beginning of a journey with God which continues for the rest of one’s life. It is the first step in response to the love of God.
A person may be baptised at any age. Parents who seek Baptism for their children are ordinarily members of St Alban’s who actively support its life and ministries. Parents and sponsors (godparents) are expected to participate in a two-hour session in preparation for the Baptism.
Those baptised at an early age are later encouraged to make a more mature commitment to the responsibilities of Baptism through the rite of Confirmation by the laying on of hands by a bishop.
Youth and adult classes in preparation for Baptism and Confirmation are organised periodically at St Alban’s. These are interactive sessions designed to help candidates explore their faith and how to live faithfully in the world. The classes are also appropriate for those who would like to reaffirm their baptismal faith or to be received into the communion of The Church of England.
Enquiries can be made by speaking directly to the Chaplain after services or by calling at 03 69 57 40 03.
Weddings
Marriage in the Church of England is viewed as a covenant relationship proclaimed in a public setting and blessed by God. Getting married is one of the most important decisions in life. It is a huge commitment and is not entered into lightly.
Couples who wish to be married at St Alban’s will meet with the officiating priest for several sessions of premarital counselling. These sessions will cover such topics as shared values, growing in faith, communication skills, the nurturing of children and handling conflict in relationships.
To learn more or to meet with the Chaplain, call 03 69 57 40 03.
Funerals & Memorials
Funerals and Memorials are occasions to give thanks for the life of someone who has completed their journey in this life and to commend that person into God’s keeping in the life to come. The service is marked by joy and the truth that nothing can separate us from the love of God, not even death (Romans 8: 38-39).
Contact the Chaplain to discuss advance planning of a funeral or to request the services of the Church on such occasions by calling 03 69 57 40 03.