The Grove and Hallcroft Methodist Churches together form the Methodist presence in Retford. Though each retains its individuality, the two congregations often unite for services, social gatherings, and special occasions – supporting one another in worship, fellowship, and community life.
December is always one of the busiest and most uplifting times in the church calendar, as the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ begins with Advent and concludes in joy and togetherness on Christmas morning. Alongside the well-loved Messy Church Christingle and Nativity, there is also space for quieter reflection. For those who find the festive season difficult, a Blue Christmas Service will be held at The Grove on Sunday 14th December at 10.30am.
For something a little different, The Grove invites everyone to step into the mystery of Myrrh, the Mystery on Friday 19th December at 6.30pm – a festive whodunnit with a nativity twist. Guests can help the Bethlehem police solve the case of the missing myrrh while enjoying a hearty pie and pea supper.
December services
- Sunday 7th December: 10.30am Advent Communion at The Grove; 4.00pm Advent Communion at Hallcroft
- Sunday 14th December: 10.30am Blue Christmas Service at The Grove (Rev’d David Bean); 10.45am Church Anniversary and
- Lunch at Hallcroft; 4.00pm Messy Church Christingle at The Grove
- Sunday 21st December: 10.30am Nativity Service at The Grove; 6.00pm Candlelit Carol Service at Hallcroft with Retford Little Theatre and the Edwardian Choir
- Christmas Eve: 8.00pm Christmas Communion at The Grove
- Christmas Day: 11.00am Celebration Service at The Grove
- Sunday 28th December: 10.30am United Service at The Grove
Events in December
- Christmas Wreath Making: Thursday 4th December, 6.30pm at The Grove (£25.00 including refreshments; £10.00 deposit by 25th November). Book via dianewelchman@gmail.com.
- Candlelit Carol Concert: Thursday 18th December, 7.30pm at The Grove, featuring Bassetlaw Voices.
- Myrrh, the Mystery: Friday 19th December, 6.30pm at The Grove. Tickets £6.00 from the church office or Retford Art Hub (booking essential).
Coming in the new year
- Twelfth Night Concert with Cantate Choir – Monday 5th January
- PopUK Schools Events – Thursday 15th and Wednesday 28th January
- Lunch and Film Event – Saturday 17th January
- Holocaust Memorial Service – Tuesday 27th January
Regular activities
- Monday: 1.15pm to 2.45pm Grove Street Baby and Toddler Group (£2.00 per family, refreshments included).
- Tuesday: 2.00pm Tuesday Fellowship (weeks 1 and 3 at The Grove; weeks 2 and 4 at Hallcroft).
- Thursday: 10.00am Coffee Morning at Hallcroft; 11.00am Midweek Communion at The Grove; 12.00pm Thursday Lunches (hot meal, pudding and drink); 2.30pm Bright Hour at The Grove.
- Saturday: 10.00am to 12.00pm Elevenses (often supporting charities) and Table Tennis at The Grove; 2.30pm to 3.30pm The Listening Place (last Saturday of the month).
Both churches also host community groups for singing, dancing, art, poetry, jewellery making, and music for wellbeing – providing something for everyone. All are warmly welcomed at every service and event. For more details, visit http://www.the-grove.org.uk or the Facebook page Grove Street Methodist Church Retford, or contact Clare Biddle, Facilities and Community Manager, on 07895 553224.