St Stephen’s Church is part of the Church of England in the Diocese of Gloucester, which is part of the world wide Anglican Communion, and is one of 5 churches in the South Cheltenham Team Ministry
The worshipping community at St Stephen’s rejoices in the knowledge that God works through those whom he has called to be his disciples, and counts it a privilege to work for Him in this parish, this town and through the worldwide Church.
We welcome you to join us for the Eucharist, the centre of our worship, which is celebrated every Sunday at:
- 8 am: 1662 Book of Common Prayer
- 10 am: Sung Eucharist, contemporary language
as well as every Wednesday at: 10.30 am: contemporary language
The Feasts of Our Lord, Our Lady and the Saints occurring during the week are celebrated on the day
Full details of Saints and Holy Days for the curent month can be found
on the Saints & Holy Days page.
We welcome you, whether you are
- A newcomer to the parish
- A casual visitor
- A tourist fascinated by beautiful buildings
- A believer in search of an oasis of silence and prayer
- An enquirer in search of healing and consolation.
Today, when for many people belief in God is no longer relevant, we, the Christian Community that meets in this part of Cheltenham, have the greatest wish to be of service to those who visit us.
In this building we want to receive you with quiet, peace and silence.
We want to give you the opportunity to pray and if you wish, to help you to find what you are seeking.
Our music, the religious readings, the sacred images, the social events – fairs, concerts, exhibitions and outings, – as well as the provision of a listening ear for the distressed, anxious and worried may help you to discover or re-discover a Christian dimension in your lives.
On entering St Stephen’s, you are entering an Anglican Church, a building where Christian peoples meet in order to worship God, to pray and to celebrate the Sacraments.
The celebration of the Eucharist is the great gathering of the Christian community, a gathering in which we meet with Jesus Christ in His banquet of eternal life.
Together we meet as members of Christ’s family, we listen to God’s word and we pray for the world and its needs.
In this way we become a community, living in the Spirit of Christ Jesus, a community of the laity and those called to Ordained Ministry.
Worship at St Stephen’s is in the catholic tradition and when you enter the church, you are in a space of rich symbolism, all designed to lead our hearts and minds to a closer experience of heaven.
High walls, decorated pillars, arches and images draw our attention upwards.
The altar keeps our gaze on earth.
Some windows admit natural light, others richly coloured light, but both at the same time, allowing us to look at the outside world and reminding us of our presence in it.
The church faces east, towards the rising sun, symbol of the Resurrection.
Beneath the great East Window you will find the original Sanctuary, the Holy of Holies, where the Blessed Sacrament is reserved. A light reminds us of Christ’s presence always with us.
Near the South door is the Baptismal Font, the source of new life, the place of reception for new members of Christ’s family.
Around the church, you will find statues of Christ in the act of Benediction; of Mary Mother of God; of St Joseph; of St Stephen our Patron – all reminding us of the invisible Church, the communion of Saints.
In the course of time, men and women have built, adorned and restored this beautiful House of Prayer and Sacraments. Your prayers will build on the foundations that they have laid.
The Parish Meeting Room
In addition to many church activities the Parish Meeting Room is also used for…
French Classes, Age UK Choir, Residents Association, Local & National Elections and is available for hire on application to the Priest in Charge – Fr Brian Torode (01242-231212)