The Grove and Hallcroft Methodist Churches form the presence of Methodism in the Retford area, working together to hold services, events, social gatherings, and provide support to the community.
The past few months have been particularly busy. In January, Year 6 pupils from local primary schools attended a POP UK event at The Grove, where they learned about transitioning to secondary school.
The sanctuary was filled with parents and children, and thanks go to the volunteers who served refreshments, which were much appreciated.
In February, the churches hosted Appreciation Day, funded by the UK Government, during half-term. This included a performance of The Frog Prince by Tailgate Theatre, which was enjoyed by all. The art and poetry competition was judged by artist Cath Ray from Cath Ray Gallery and Studio, poet Pam Mann, and Shirley Thomas of Poetry Café. Winners received Amazon vouchers.
March has seen the Lent course take place, using The Sound of Musings by Bryony Wood as a guide to understanding this important period in the Christian calendar. The course continues into April, meeting on Saturday mornings at 9.30am.
The Elizabethan Academy also used the beautiful church space at The Grove as the backdrop for their production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, which was close to selling out every night. It was a delight to see such talent from young students, both on and off the stage.
Upcoming events
- Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice Afternoon Tea – Tuesday 2nd April, 2.00pm to 5.00pm
- Swing into Spring Concert – u3a Simply Swing Band, Thursday 4th April, 7.00pm at The Grove
- Allegra Choir Concert – Saturday 5th April
- Book and Jigsaw Sale – Saturday 5th April, 2.00pm, Hallcroft
- Film and Afternoon Tea – Saturday 26th April, 3.00pm at The Grove
- Retford Art Society Exhibition – 9th to 15th June, The Grove
- Retford’s First Book Festival – Hosted by The Grove, June
- The Grove Church Flower Festival – Around the World in 80 Days, 5th to 7th July
Regular gatherings
- Messy Church at The Grove – Second Sunday of the month, 4.00pm to 5.30pm, for families and those young at heart to learn about Jesus through stories, crafts, and a shared meal.
- The Listening Place – Support for the bereaved, with tea and cake. Last Saturday of the month, 2.30pm to 3.30pm at The Grove.
Services
- Mothering Sunday 30th March, 10.30am – United Service at The Grove led by Rev Julie Coates, featuring the church band and a special contribution from Retford Little Theatre.
- Palm Sunday 13th April
10.30am – Open Door Calm Space (a reflective service) at The Grove
10.45am – Sunday service at Hallcroft
4.00pm – Messy Church at The Grove - Maundy Thursday 17th April
11.00am – Communion Service at Hallcroft Methodist Church
2.30pm – Communion Service at The Grove Methodist Church - Good Friday 18th April
2.00pm – Prayer Walk around Daneshill Lake
7.00pm – Tenebrae Service at The Grove Methodist Church, led by Rev Philip Macdonald - Easter Sunday 20th April
10.45am – United Service at Hallcroft Methodist Church, led by Rev Julie Coates, accompanied by the church band
The churches look forward to welcoming visitors to The Grove during Charter Day on Monday 5th May, where tea, cake, and a look at the church’s transformation over the past few years will be available, along with insights into its history.
The Grove and Hallcroft Methodist Churches join together in wishing everyone a Happy and Blessed Easter.
For more details about services and regular events, visit www.the-grove.org.uk or www.facebook.com/Grove-street-Methodist-Church-Retford, or contact Clare Biddle, Facilities and Community Manager, on 07895 553224.