The Church and Community working in partnership
St Mary's has always stood alongside people, and still do today. We are here to serve, to give voice to the gospel and to speak for those who are on the edges of society, in need, who feel outcast or persecuted, oppressed or feel the oppression of prejudice. We continue to give to good causes both Christian and secular and encourage all members to follow Jesus and his commandment to love others as he has loved us; a true mark of discipleship.
We work in partnership with many to help transform lives and communities. Below are some of the projects and groups in which we're involved.
Whickham Churches Together
There are four churches in Whickham. We are partners in the Gospel and work to bless our community in the name of Jesus for the transformation of all. There are two Methodist congregations at Fellside Church and Spoor Chapel and St Mary's RC in Dockendale. We support one another and come together in worship and for events several times over the year.
Food Banks
We have collection points for donated foods. There are receptacles for donated food in both the church and the St Mary's Centre along with a collection point in the Coop Food Store on Oakfield Road. The food is collected and taken to Gateshead Food Bank. To date, and with your help, over three tons of food has been collected through us.
Lighting up Whickham
A few years ago, St Mary's, local businesses ward councillors, Rotary, Rose Villa and residents constituted a new group to raise funds for important events in Whickham. Initially this was to provide a Christmas tree and lights to the village. Being well supported by schools and people alike, the switch on event, has gone from strength to strength. Encouraged, the committee now plan and deliver a summer festival and winter fair. Lighting up Whickham has focused interest on the talents, vitality and opportunities of Whickham and the surrounding area.
Planting up Whickham
The people of Whickham are proud of their community. In recent years, with substantial cuts to Local Authority budgets, the council had to reduce its involvement in planting and grounds maintenance. Rising to the challenge, Whickham's people, businesses, local councillors and the Church formed an expanding group of volunteers and sponsors. This has ensured the traditional flower beds throughout the village, including Church Green, have continued to bloom. Consequently, Britain in Bloom have awarded us several awards. Want to help? Contact Geoff Thompson geoffneil@btinternet.com
Community Music Whickham & Swalwell
We are a registered charity in the heart of Tyneside set up with the objective of providing music classes and appreciation for all. We currently have tuition groups in various instruments including violin, viola, cello, guitar and viol and we can provide music theory lessons and assessments (exams). We also have a number of ensembles and orchestra groups and we organise regular recitals. We can perform at your event - contact us!
Our aim is to facilitate personal and group participation in music making in the community, music enjoyment and appreciation with students of all ages, backgrounds and abilities and to provide public concerts and recitals to all groups of people without discrimination and thus improve the quality of life, health and overall well-being of both musicians and listeners. We are located on the south bank of the Tyne and we welcome music lovers from far and wide to join us and help make some noise. communitymusicws.com
Newcastle and District Society of Organists
The Society encompasses all who have an interest in the organ and its music; whether novice, professional, player or listener. It holds regular sessions in Newcastle and Gateshead including visits, training sessions, lecture recitals, master classes and holds a class at the Ryton Music Festival. Michael Grave our Director of Music is a past President of the NDSO and a co-organiser of the successful Great North Organ Day. For further information about the St Mary's organ please take the link to our Music page which will be available soon.
Royal School of Church Music, Durham Area
St Mary's Choir is affiliated to the RSCM, which supports a world wide network of over 8000 churches, schools and individuals. The RSCM www.rscm.com/ is committed to achieving the best use of good music in worship - whatever the resources, whatever the style. Regular local events and training are held throughout the Durham Diocese; contact Michael Grave for further information. The RSCM offer support through education, training, publications, advice and encouragement to churches and their musicians; investing now in the church music of the future.
Links to friends
Check out some of our friends; their websites may be of interest you.
Whickham Parochial Church of England Primary School
At the heart of education lies the child
Church of England
A Christian presence in every community
https://www.churchofengland.org
Diocese of Durham
The people and places of the Diocese
https://www.durhamdiocese.org
Gibside Chapel
http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside