The Grove and Hallcroft Methodist Churches together represent the Methodist presence in Retford. While functioning as individual units, the two churches collaborate for various services, events and community gatherings, providing mutual support and fellowship.
Easter reflections and celebrations
April brought several meaningful occasions, with Easter proving especially significant in the Christian calendar. Services allowed time for reflection and celebration, culminating in a joyous Easter Sunday communion at Hallcroft Church, led by Julie Coates and accompanied by The Grove Band. A floral cross was decorated during the service to symbolise new life, while another cross was displayed outside The Grove, adorned with ribbons by the Messy Church group earlier in the week.
Community Film and Tea
The popular Film and Afternoon Tea event, organised by the Star Festival Team, featured a screening of Wonka alongside refreshments. The next film event is scheduled for Saturday 19th July.
Sunday Services
Sunday 1st June
- 10.30am – Communion service at The Grove
- 4.00pm – Afternoon Worship at Hallcroft Methodist Church
Sunday 8th June
- 10.30am – Open Door Calm Space at The Grove (quiet reflection)
- 10.45am – Worship with Rev’d Mark Cantrill at Hallcroft
- 4.00pm – Messy Church at The Grove
Sunday 15th June
- 10.30am – Morning Worship at The Grove (inspired by the Book Festival)
- 4.00pm – Communion Service at Hallcroft
Sunday 22nd June
- 10.45am – Service led by Rev’d Gill Newton at Hallcroft
- 5.00pm – Special service at The Grove celebrating Rev’d Inderjit Bhogal’s 45th anniversary
Sunday 29th June
- 9.00am – Communion Service at The Grove
- 4.00pm – Outdoor Worship in the Garden at Hallcroft
June events
Retford Book Festival – Monday 9th to Sunday 15th June
The Grove will host various festival events. Leaflets are available at local venues. Tickets from Wonderland Bookshop or www.eventbright.co.uk. Volunteers welcome.
Make Music Day – Saturday 21st June
Free musical performances across Retford, including at The Grove.
Save the dates
- Flower Festival at The Grove – Saturday 5th to Monday 7th July. The theme is ‘Around the World in Eighty Days’, and it will be open from 10.00am to 5.00pm.
- Concert at The Grove – Saturday 5th July, 7.30pm. Featuring Allegra Voice Choir and Three-Piece Suite, tickets cost £10.00, and are available from Sue Rich, Barbara Wilson or at Elevenses
- Film and Lunch Afternoon – Saturday 19th July, time TBC. Tickets available from Di Welchman at dianewelchman@gmail.com
Regular activities
Mon$day
- 1.15pm to 2.45pm – Grove Street Baby and Toddler Group (£2.00 per family, incl. refreshments)
- 2.00pm – Monthly Book Club (held in members’ homes)
Tuesday
- 2.00pm – Tuesday Fellowship Group (alternates between The Grove and Hallcroft)
Thursday
- 10.00am to 11.00am – Coffee morning at Hallcroft
- 11.00am – Midweek Communion at The Grove
- 12.00pm – Thursday Lunches (hot meal, pudding, drink) at The Grove
- 2.30pm – Bright Hour (most Thursdays at The Grove)
Saturday
- 10.00am to 12.00pm – Elevenses at The Grove (often supporting charities)
- 2.30pm to 3.30pm – The Listening Place (last Saturday of each month at The Grove)
The churches also host a variety of community groups offering activities such as singing, dancing, jewellery making, poetry, art and music for wellbeing.
All are welcome to attend any service or event.
For more information visit www.the-grove.org.uk or the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Grove-Street-Methodist-Church-Retford, or contact Clare Biddle, Facilities and Community Manager, on 07895 553224.