Category Archives: News

Recruiting a new Vicar: Our Parish Profile

Over the last few months the PCC and Churchwardens have been working hard on our ‘Parish Profile’ – a key document in recruiting our new vicar that sets out what sort of parish St Mary’s is, how we would like to grow and develop, and what we are looking for in our next vicar.

If you’re interested in reading the final document it is now available here:

What happens next?

The post will be advertised in early January via the Diocese of St Albans, Church of England and the Church Times.  The deadline for applications is 1st February and interviews will take place on 20th February.

The interview process will be extensive, with all candidates being grilled by a group of children at Redbourn Primary School, leading a bible study session with groups from the congregation, giving a sermon and a formal interview with a panel of 6 including representatives from St Mary’s PCC, the Bishop of Hertford, Rural Dean of Wheathampstead Deanery and a representative of our patron, the Earl of Verulam.  They will also have the opportunity to tour the village and look around the Vicarage, and will each be hosted for lunch by members of our St Mary’s family.

Once the role has been offered and accepted, it may still be some months before the announcement is made depending on the circumstances of the successful candidate.

Please keep in your prayers all those who will consider applying for this post, and those involved in the shortlisting and interview process.  

Urgent Appeal for Winter Coats

Do you have adult’s or children’s outer garments – coats, jackets, winter shoes, hats, gloves, umbrellas to spare? They must be in good enough condition for you to want to wear them!

We have been made aware of an urgent need for these items to help families in Dunstable seeking asylum.

Please leave them in the back pew (by the clergy vestry) in St Mary’s by next Tuesday 20th September no later than 12.00pm.

Thank you so much for your support.

The death of Her Majesty The Queen

St Mary’s Church joins everyone in mourning the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. 

The Church will be open from 9am to 5pm daily and will stay open to 9pm if necessary. 

A book of condolence has been opened and is available to sign in the Lady Chapel.

Floral tributes may be left outside the church under the large Cedar tree (the Welcome Tree).

The church bells were rung fully muffled at 8.00pm today (Thursday 8th September), and will be rung again at 12 noon tomorrow (Friday 9th September).