Faith, Fellowship, and Community in Chadkirk

The bishops spent a busy two days with parishes, schools, and community spaces seeing and participating in faith in action and the vibrant life of local churches. From classrooms to care homes, lunch tables to prayer walks, deanery visits like this are always inspiring for Bishops and encouraging for those ministering in different contexts in diverse ways.

Day One: Classrooms, Community and Conversations …

The visit began on Tuesday, 1 July, with morning prayers at St Mark’s Church, Bredbury where Revd Andy Bull led reflections on Luke 13:10–21. The bishops then dispersed across the deanery.

Back to School

Bishop Sam led Collective Worship at St Mark’s CE School, while Bishop Mark visited All Saints Primary. Bishop Julie visited a lively morning session of young families at St Mary’s Tots Group in Disley.

Community Connections

After meeting with local business owners, the bishops joined residents for lunch at the Romiley Life Centre’s Talking Table. In the afternoon, Bishop Sam visited Romiley Primary School, Bishop Julie supported the Foodbank at St Mark’s Church Hall, and Bishop Mark explored the Early Life Centre in Romiley.

Here, Bishop Mark heard from Sally King and Anna McCauley about their mission to support vulnerable mothers and babies. With donated items, prayer, and compassion, they provide over 100 Moses baskets a year—each filled with essentials and a message of hope. “It is my belief that no baby is a mistake, however difficult the circumstances they are born into” explains Sally “and we include a small Bible verse to speak truth over that baby.”  

Evening Fellowship

Bishop Julie visited Silverdale Nursing Home to meet residents and staff. The day ended with a joyful barbecue for clergy and families at the home of Mike and Katie Wade in Marple, followed by a Deanery Service at All Saints Church. Bishop Mark and Bishop Sam shared their personal journeys in a Q&A session, and the congregation offered prayers for their ministry.

Day Two: Worship, Wonder, and Walking Together ...

Wednesday, 2 July, began with Holy Communion services across the deanery. Bishop Julie preached at St Thomas, High Lane. Bishop Mark met young families at CATS (Carers and Toddlers Praise) at Holy Trinity, Whaley Bridge and Bishop Sam led worship at St Thomas, Mellor.

Later in the morning, Bishop Mark led mid-morning worship at St Chad’s, Romiley. Bishop Julie joined the Growth Group at St Mark’s, Bredbury, while Bishop Sam visited Mini-Chadders at the Guywood Centre, Romiley.

Shared Meals and Stories

The bishops reunited for a Community Lunch at St Paul’s, Compstall, where they shared food and fellowship with local residents.

Creative Ministry

In the afternoon, Bishop Sam joined the Open the Book team at Newton and Furness Vale Primary Schools, helping bring Bible stories to life through drama. Meanwhile, Bishop Julie and Bishop Mark took part in a reflective Pilgrimage Prayer Walk from St Paul’s to St Martin’s Church, where a short service brought the visit to a prayerful close.