CCRG Member Feature Post
St Mary’s Church, Coddenham
The church building of St Mary’s is testament to over 900 years of Christian worship in Coddenham. Historically it is an interesting building with lots of fascinating features – repurposed Roman bricks used to build the walls, medieval graffiti of a knight, a fifteenth century double hammerbeam angel roof, a 21st century embroidered wall hanging created by villagers, the workings of an 17thcentury clock, the names of bell ringers inscribed in the ringing tower some of whom lost their lives in the First World War. The building chronicles the life of the village and reflects its importance as a place to worship and meet. Over the centuries villagers have been baptised in the font, married at the altar and buried in the churchyard. Services of Morning Prayer, Holy Communion and Evening Prayer have been and continue to be held regularly; while special services marking Christian festivals and civic events; such as Christmas, Epiphany, Easter, Pentecost, Harvest and Remembrance celebrate the passing of each year. The congregation respects and cares for the amazing heritage of St Mary’s whilst looking to the future and exploring ways to make the building and its surroundings more environmentally friendly. The wildflower displays in the churchyard are spectacular and recognised as being among the best in Suffolk. Hospitality is extended to visitors through the many events hosted at the Church – drama productions, musical concerts, flower festivals and themed coffee mornings. As part of the North Bosmere Benefice, St Mary’s works closely with its neighbouring churches at Gosbeck and Hemingstone. The Covid pandemic has brought new challenges and the Benefice has embraced Zoom worship and looked at ways to worship outdoors.
All are welcome to join the congregation of St Mary’s as we celebrate Christmas this year.
The Candlelit Carol service is on Sunday 19thDecember at 4pm, followed by festive refreshments. On Christmas Eve we celebrate Christ’s birth with an outdoor Crib Service and carol singing in the churchyard at 4pm. Midnight Christmas Communion follows starting at 11.30pm. The path to the church will be lined with Christmas trees decorated by villagers and local organisations. We look forward to welcoming you to St Mary’s For more information see our website pages at www.coddenham-parish.uk
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