The Grove and Hallcroft Methodist Churches together form the Methodist presence in Retford. Although they work closely and share in worship, outreach, and fellowship, they remain independent units, joining for special services, events, and occasions.
Messy Church is a key part of life in the Retford Methodist Churches, meeting every second Sunday at 4.00pm, except in August. July’s session took place in the Museum Gardens for the annual picnic, themed Come Follow Me. Activities included making fish for a fishing game and decorating shells, alongside storytelling about the diversity of the disciples, prayers, and singing Jesus is My Leader. This was followed by a shared feast, with visitors from both Messy Church and The Grove congregation. Messy Church returns on Sunday 14th September and all are welcome.
Sixty years ago, Songs of Praise was filmed at The Grove. On Sunday 5th October at 10.30am, there will be a celebration of this special anniversary, looking back at that day and everything that has taken place since. The service will be filled with singing, memories, and fellowship.
Sunday services in September
- Sunday 7th September: 10.30am Holy Communion at The Grove, Rev’d Julie Coates; 4.00pm Afternoon Service at Hallcroft Methodist Church, Rev’d Julie Coates.
- Sunday 14th September: 10.30am Open Door calm space at The Grove, led by Teresa Abel; 4.00pm Messy Church at The Grove (including a baptism).
- Sunday 21st September: 10.30am Harvest Festival at The Grove with Rev’d P. Macdonald, including dedication of the new garden; 4.00pm Tea Time Praise at Hallcroft Methodist Church, Rev’d P. Macdonald.
- Sunday 28th September: 9.00am Early Morning Communion at The Grove, Rev’d Julie Coates; 10.45am Harvest Festival at Hallcroft Methodist Church, Keith Abel.
Events in September
- Heritage Day – Saturday 13th September: The Grove open for refreshments and a chance to view the recent renovations.
- Nottinghamshire Police Band – Saturday 20th September, 7.00pm at The Grove: Music from around the world, with refreshments and raffle. Tickets £10.00 (text 07815 009515).
- Film and Lunch Afternoon – Saturday 27th September, 1.00pm at The Grove: Organised by the Star Festival Team. Tickets £15.00 (email dianewelchman@gmail.com).
Dates for your diary
- Songs of Praise Anniversary – Sunday 5th October.
- Star Festival – Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd November (further details to follow).
Regular activities
- Mondays: 1.15pm to 2.45pm Grove Street Baby and Toddler Group (£2.00 per family, refreshments included, term time only); 2.00pm Monthly Book Club in members’ homes
- Tuesdays: 2.00pm Tuesday Fellowship Group, alternating between the two churches (weeks one and three at The Grove, weeks two and four at Hallcroft)
- Thursdays: 10.00am Coffee Morning at Hallcroft; 11.00am Midweek Communion at The Grove; 12.00pm
- Thursday Lunches (hot meal, pudding and drink) at The Grove; 2.30pm Bright Hour (most Thursdays at The Grove)
- Saturdays: 10.00am to 12.00pm Elevenses at The Grove (often supporting charity); 2.30pm to 3.30pm The Listening Place (last Saturday of the month at The Grove)
A wide range of other groups also meet on the premises, covering activities such as singing, dancing, jewellery making, poetry, art, and music for wellbeing.
Everyone is welcome at all services and events.
For more information, visit http://www.the-grove.org.uk or the Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/Grove-Street-Methodist-Church-Retford. Contact Clare Biddle, Facilities and Community Manager, on 07895 553224.