The Grove and Hallcroft Methodist Churches together form the Methodist presence in Retford. Although working together, they are separate units, joining for some services, support, socialising, sharing, and collaborating for special events. Sunday services and events at both churches are open to all, with a warm welcome for everyone.
November saw two large events at the Grove Methodist Church: the return of the Retford Art Society for their annual Autumn Exhibition at the beginning of the month; and the popular Star Festival, which crowned the end of the month, transformed the church space into a kaleidoscope of coloured stars, creating a breathtaking view from the balcony.
As December begins, Advent, the lead-up to Christmas, and Christmas itself are busy times for both churches. Below is information about their seasonal services and events.
The two churches join together to extend warm wishes for a joyous and peaceful Christmas.
Advent and Christmas Events at the Grove Methodist Church
The Life in the Comma, Saturdays 30th November, 7th, 14th and 21st December
A four-session Advent course held at The Grove on Saturday mornings from 9.30am to 10.30am. The Apostle’s Creed proclaims that Jesus Christ was ‘born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate’. However, these statements, separated by only a comma, tell us very little about Jesus. This course explores the people Jesus met, the things he said, the controversies he caused, and his compassion for the marginalised. Everyone is welcome to this thought-provoking course.
Special events
- Nottinghamshire Police Band – Music from Films and Shows (with a touch of Christmas), Saturday 30th November, 7.30pm, The Grove: Tickets are £10.00, available by texting 07815 009515 or from The Grove Office. Refreshments will be served during the interval.
- Blue Christmas Service, Sunday 8th December, 10.30am, The Grove: A service open to everyone, with a focus on those who may find celebration difficult during Advent and Christmas.
Christingle Service, Sunday 8th December, 4.00pm, The Grove - 65th Anniversary Celebration, Sunday 8th December, 10.45am, Hallcroft Methodist Church: Led by Rev Peter Sheasby, a former minister of the church, followed by lunch. Contact 07807 679006 for details.
- The Journey of the Magi, Monday 16th December, 7.00pm, The Grove: Presented by Churches Together in Retford and performed by Springs Dance Company. A family-friendly pre-Christmas production featuring dance, theatre, song, and poetry. Tickets are £10.00 for adults, £5.00 for children, available from 01777 702573.
- Thursday Christmas Lunch, Thursday 19th December, 12.00pm, The Grove: Pre-booking is essential through the Thursday Lunch team.
- Family Festive Film, Friday 20th December, 6.00pm, The Grove: Tickets are £10.00 for adults, £5.00 for children. Includes snacks.
- Carols, Candles and Cake, Saturday 21st December, 4.00pm, The Grove: A traditional Christmas celebration, embracing the wonder and mystery of the season.
Advent and Christmas Services
Sunday 1st December
- 10.30am: Advent Communion, The Grove
- 4.00pm: Afternoon Service, Hallcroft
Sunday 8th December
- 10.30am: ‘Blue Christmas’ service, The Grove, led by Rev Phillip Macdonald
- 10.45am: Church Anniversary and lunch, Hallcroft, led by Rev Peter Sheasby
- 4.00pm: Christingle, The Grove
Sunday 15th December
- 10.30am: Advent Worship, The Grove, led by Keith Abel
- 4.00pm: Christmas Communion, Hallcroft Methodist Church
Sunday 22nd December
- 10.30am: Nativity Service, The Grove
- 6.00pm: Candlelit Service, Hallcroft with participants from Retford Little Theatre and the Edwardian Choir
Christmas Eve
- 8.00pm: Christmas Communion, The Grove
Christmas Day
- 10.30am: Celebration, Hallcroft
New at The Grove
- Communion, every Thursday morning, 11.00am, The Grove: A short, meditative Communion service – a quiet time in a busy week for everyone.
- The Grove Toddler Group, Mondays, 1.15pm to 2.45pm term time, The Grove: Stories, crafts, toys, and refreshments for the little ones, along with support for parents and carers.
All regular events at both churches will continue throughout the month, with a brief break over Christmas into the New Year.
For more information, visit the website at www.the-grove.org.uk, the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Grove-Street-Methodist-Church-Retford, or contact Clare Biddle, Facilities and Community Manager, at 07895 553224.